FRIDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER 2018

CBN Debits Four Banks over N5.87 Billion Fines MTN faces Moody's downgrade

Obinna Chima in Lagos and James Emejo in Abuja Following a fine of N5.87 billion the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recently imposed on Stanbic IBTC, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, Citibank and Diamond

Bank, the banking sector regulator has finally debited the accounts of the respective banks. While Stanbic IBTC yesterday disclosed in a

statement to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) that the central bank has debited its account, a CBN source told THISDAY that the amount has been deducted from the

affected banks’ respective accounts at the CBN. The CBN last week slammed a fine of N5.87 billion on four banks over the violation of extant laws and regulations

of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, including the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1995, and the Foreign Exchange Manual, 2006.

FG Rakes N3.5tn Taxes in Eight Months... Page 10

Also affected was MTN Nigeria, which the CBN directed to immediately refund $8,134,312,397.63, which was illegally repatriated by the telecoms company, to the coffers of the bank. Continued on page 12

Friday 7 September, 2018 Vol 23. No 8542. Price: N250

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Afenifere, Others Ask Buhari to Reject Nomination Forms from Shadowy Group Presidency silent PDP calls for sanction There is no legal infraction, says APC Omololu Ogunmade, Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Segun James in Lagos Civil society groups and opposition parties were united yesterday in asking President Muhammadu Buhari to reject the N45.5million All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential nomination forms bought for him by a shadowy group, Nigeria Consolidation

Ambassadors Network (NCAN), on Wednesday. The groups, including Centre for Transparency Advocacy, Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and Afenifere as well as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC), said the NCAN gesture was a violation of S91(9) of Electoral Act 2010 Continued on page 10

Police Dismiss Three Officers over Raid on Clark’s House Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Nigerian Police has dismissed three of its men for their role in the illegal search of the Abuja residence of elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark. The fourth and leader of the team, ASP David Dominic, has been queried and is still under investigation for alleged professional misconduct and infringement of the fundamental rights of the

elder statesman, an offence the force said could eventually lead to his sack. Their dismissal was made public yesterday in a statement by Force Public Relations Officer, Jimoh Moshood. According to the statement, "The Inspector General of Police has approved the dismissal from the service of the Nigeria Police Force, Continued on page 12

Stampede As Atiku Submits Forms... Page 12

EMPOWERING TRADERS... Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (left) with a trader, during the launch of the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP), Trader Moni, held at the Utako Ultra Moden Market, Abuja…yesterday

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FG Rakes N3.5tn Taxes in Eight Months Foreign trade drops to N6.56tn in Q2 Obinna Chima in Lagos and James Emejo in Abuja The Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. Babatunde Fowler, yesterday disclosed that the federal government realised N3.5 trillion from various taxes in the first eight months of 2018. This was N1 trillion higher, compared with the N2.5 trillion generated by the country same period in 2017. Fowler disclosed this just as the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that the total value of Nigeria’s merchandise trade dropped to N6.56 trillion in the second quarter of the year (Q2 2018), representing a contraction by 8.89 per cent, compared with the N7.21 trillion recorded in the preceding quarter. The FIRS boss while speaking at a stakeholders’ forum in Lagos, stressed that oil revenue was unsustainable, just as he reiterated the need to focus on ways to ramp up the country’s non-oil revenue. “If you look at 2018 revenue till date, between January and August, we have done N3.5 trillion, which was N1 trillion higher than the

amount realised over same period in 2017. “You can clearly see that even at current prices, the oil revenue tax cannot fund our nation. The only way to have a high level of tax compliance is to focus on the non-oil. “A component of the non-oil happens to be Value Added Tax (VAT) and we have found that a number of business collect VAT and don’t remit it,� Fowler said. He also said the FIRS had commenced the audit of taxpayers across the country. Fowler said the nationwide audit would ensure increased tax revenue collection, improved service delivery to taxpayers and enhanced voluntary compliance, while calling on stakeholders to support efforts to reposition tax administration system in the country. “I also want to announce that we now have a consolidated database of all taxpayers in Nigeria under the Joint Tax Board (JTB). “We just concluded it and before the end of September, it will be made available to all state internal revenue services and other

government agencies like Immigration and Customs. It will be available for tax administration,� he added. The FIRS boss said all tax laws that were not in the interest of the taxpayers are already undergoing a process of review and that taxpayers and stakeholders must support tax authorities in the interest of the nation’s development. “The greatest challenge for any tax administration is achieving and maintaining a high degree of self-assessment and voluntary compliance by taxpayers. “Studies however show that the extent to which an economy is able to grow sustainably and develop depends to a large extent on its ability to generate tax revenue to finance its expenditure and the efficiency of its tax system,� he said. At the event, some of the stakeholders raised concerns regarding the number of taxes and levies being collected and levied by different government agencies which were mostly not remitted completely. The forum had in attendance, representatives

from Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs), labour unions, tax consultants, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and other private sector operators.

Nigeria's Foreign Trade Drops Meanwhile, in its Foreign Trade Statistics for Q2 which was released yesterday, the NBS attributed the contraction to the decline in both imports and exports in the review period. However, the country posted a surplus of N2.35 trillion, representing 8.36 per cent increase compared to N2.17 trillion in Q1 in its trade balance for the period under assessment. Total imports stood at N2.11 trillion indicating a -16.3 per cent decrease compared to N2.51 trillion in Q1. On the other hand, total exports amounted to N4.46 trillion, indicating a contraction of -4.9 per cent compared to the N4.69 trillion posted in Q1. Crude oil accounted for 83.5 per cent of total trade while non-oil exports accounted for only 4.3 per

cent of total exports. Nonetheless, exports accounted for 67 per cent of total trade, the NBS stated. India and China remained the country's major trading partners in terms of export and import destinations with trade values of 16.19 per cent and 25.28 per cent respectively. The value of imported agricultural goods stood at N224.52 billion, showing an increase by 21.7 per cent compared to N184.49 billion Q1. Raw materials imports totalled N261.10 billion, a decline of -8.3 percent compared to N284.81 billion in Q1. The value of manufactured goods imported in the review period was N1.17 trillion, representing a decline of -1.2 percent over the preceding quarter which stood at N1.18 trillion. However, the value of exported agricultural goods in Q2 stood at N85.90 billion, representing a 17.3 per cent rise when compared to N73.24 billion in Q1 and 127.3 percent higher than the value recorded in Q2, 2017 which stood at N37.79

billion. Crude oil exports totalled N3.72 trillion, representing 4.2 per cent increase from N3.57 trillion in Q1 and 53.7 per cent higher than the N2.42 trillion in Q2 2017. Other oil products exports was valued at N516.32 billion, indicating a decline of 3.6 per cent in relation to the N535.68 billion recorded in Q1 and a 0.8 per cent growth from the value recorded in Q2, 2017 at N512.41 billion. The value of exported manufactured goods in Q2 stood at N69.86 billion, representing a significant decline of -83.9 per cent compared to N434.37 billion in Q1 and higher by 0.9 percent when compared to N69.26 billion in Q2 2017. Also, raw material exports value dropped by -2.98 per cent in Q2 to N31.72 billion compared to N32.70 billion in Q1 while solid minerals exports value dropped to N19.93 billion or -25.98 per cent lower than the N26.92 billion in Q1. The value of Energy goods exports stood at N10.99 billion or 5.8 per cent higher than the N10.39 billion posted in the preceding quarter.

AFENIFERE, OTHERS ASK BUHARI TO RE JECT NOMINATION FORMS FROM SHADOWY GROUP as amended and asked the president to reject it. The presidency, however, refused to take issues with the critics yesterday, asking THISDAY to approach the president’s campaign for comments. “The president’s campaign organisation is the most appropriate body to react to this type of matter,� Femi Adesina, the Special Adviser to the president on Media and Publicity, told THISDAY last night. The Director of Strategic Communication of the Buhari Campaign Organisation, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), could not be reached as his personal assistant told THISDAY last night that he had travelled out of the country. The National Coordinator of NCAN, Mr. Sanusi Musa, had on Wednesday presented a cheque of N45.5million at the APC national secretariat for the purchase of expression of interest (N5million) and nomination (N40million) forms on behalf of Buhari. He said they did it to assist the president, who had earlier complained that the forms were too exorbitant for him to buy as they were way above his salary. But the gesture has been widely criticised as unlawful with many critics asking the president to turn down the offer. The PDP, for instance, said if Buhari proceeds to accept the offer, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should apply the sanction stipulated in S91 (10) (a) of the electoral law. “The PDP urges the INEC to note that the purchase of the N45 million form by the group directly violates section 91 (9) of the Electoral Act, which provides that “no individual or other entity shall donate more than One million naira (N1,000,000) to

any candidate,� the party said in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan. According to it, “Since President Buhari has not publicly disowned the purchase of the form by the group, the PDP charges INEC to, within the next 24 hours, hold him culpable and make him to face the appropriate sanctions for the violation of electoral laws.� Saying there is a world of difference between an aspirant and a candidate, the APC yesterday disagreed that there had been any constitutional or legal infraction by the action of NCAN. In its reply to the barrage of criticisms that trailed the purchase of forms for the president by the shadowy group, the ruling party said as far as it was concerned, there has been no contravention of the electoral law. In a statement by its acting National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Yekini Nabene, made available to THISDAY last night, APC said that it would amount to rushing to quick conclusion based on erroneous legal grounds for anyone to fault the group. APC said, "Aside from the fact that there is a world of difference between an aspirant and a candidate in the eyes of the law, there has been no contravention of the Electoral Act 2010 (As Amended)". It explained, “The Nigeria Consolidation Ambassadors Network was responsible for the purchase of the presidential forms for President Buhari and has indicated that it acted as a collection medium to aggregate micro contributions from thousands of Nigerians keen to ensure his re-election. "While we restate that as a political party, the APC acted in compliance with the dictates of the law, we also acknowledge that this

singular act by thousands of Nigerians severely jolted the ranks of opposition politicians and their paid agents in the media hence their desperate attempt to tar such a noble gesture with the brush of illegality. "This is especially the case considering the loud silence of the THISDAY Newspapers when former Vice President Atiku Abubakar enjoyed the same gesture for his supporters to purchase the PDP Nomination and Expression of Interest Forms for the 2019 presidential election.� APC, however, extolled the laudable contributions of THISDAY newspaper group to the media industry, adding that the Newspaper should be fair and balanced in its reportage. Lawyers THISDAY spoke with yesterday countered APC’s defence of the shadowy group’s gesture, arguing that candidacy starts with aspiration. “Election is a process that starts with the selection of aspirants. So, the nomination process is part of the election because there can’t be a candidate by law without a selection process,� a lawyer said, asking, “Are they saying that an aspirant can gather illicit funds and use it later when he becomes a candidate?� Another lawyer said APC’s argument was hairsplitting. “The point is that in 2015 when Buhari had more than enough friends to pick up the forms for him, he chose the option of a loan. Has the situation changed now?� he asked. In its reaction, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, said the president should shun the forms, arguing that his claim that he could not afford them was hypocritical, adding that it was a rehash of similar attitude before the

2015 election. The group’s spokesman, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, warned that Buhari might be sued by a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) for violating the Electoral Act. Although Odumakin did not say which NGO would sue the president, he stressed that it is typical of the Buhari’s administration to take Nigerians for granted. Odumakin recalled that Buhari said he took loan to buy his 2015 nomination form, but he is yet to inform the nation if he has indeed finished paying the loan. He said that the action of the president is contrary to the provision of Electoral Act 2010 as amended, which pegs individual and group contributions to election expenses of a candidate to N1million. “You say you are fighting corruption but this is corruption. This is a clear contravention of the Electoral Act. It is all hypocrisy,� Odumakin insisted. The National Publicity Secretary of PANDEF, Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, said the organisation is a pressure group that does not dabble into partisan politics except that which has to do with issues relating to restructuring the country, fiscal federalism and the Niger Delta. Sara-Igbe, however, said that if the president has violated the laws, those who feel aggrieved have the right to seek redress in the court of law. “They should approach the court for interpretation of the Electoral Act, if they feel aggrieved; but they are also free to advise the president to do the needful. Everybody is free to advise the president,� he said. The ADC was similarly inclined yesterday, calling on the president to reject

the forms, challenging him to question the source of the money used in buying the forms. It said Buhari would make a mockery of his anticorruption war and his ‘Mr. Integrity’ posture if he failed to investigate the source of the fund. In an interview with THISDAY yesterday in Abuja, ADC National Coordinator on Electoral Matters and INEC Liaison, Chief Anayo Arinze, said for the president to accept the forms bought for him would be an indication that he would not respect the rule of law. He claimed that it was an arrangement, saying, “The youths don’t have money, so it could be arranged with the presidency and they give money and say let the youths go and buy in their name, it is politics.� Anayo added, “That is an evidence that the president does not believe in the rule of law. He doesn’t belief in constitutional provision and they have said that every rule of law must be subject to national interest.� On her part, the Director of Contact and Mobilisation, Centre for Transparency Advocacy, Ms. Faith Nwadishi, said that her organisation frowned at the gesture, stressing that it means that political parties and individuals indiscriminately flout electoral laws, and besides it also contributes to the high cost of elections in the country. She said the rejection of the gesture by the president would go a long way to show that the assurance the president gave the British Prime Minister Theresa May that the 2019 elections would be free and fair is more than a lip service. Nwadishi stated, “Initially the president said the presidential nomination form

of his party was way too high and we also know that the income of the president for the last three years will not have been able to buy that form. We have the electoral act that prohibits group or individual contribution to any political party. “If this kind of attitude is allowed to continue, what it means is that before election people already have vested interest. “The gesture is against the Electoral Act, what we expect is that the president should take the bull by the horn and reject that gesture.� She advised the president to order the prosecution of those who bought the forms, saying, “This has sent a very wrong message to the populace, and as an election observer we are very concerned especially going towards 2019.�

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NGN NGN 0.04 0.44 0.50 6.00 0.02 0.25 0.02 0.26 0.05 0.79 NGN 0.04 0.36 0.65 6.25 0.06 0.65 STDINSURE 0.03 0.32 UNILEVER 3.20 46.80 HPE Nestle Nig Plc â‚Ś1,500.00 Volume: 164.5 million shares Value: N2.072 billion Deals: 3,188 As at yesterday 6/09/18 See details on Page 43

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StampedeAsAtikuSubmitsForms Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Policemen attached to the national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were yesterday forced to fire multiple gun shots to scare away thugs, who had invaded the party secretariat, and clashed with supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The supporters of Atiku, one of the presidential aspirants in the PDP, were seen around the secretariat as early as 9a.m. carrying banners and posters with Atiku's pictures and the banners of the PDP. Though, the former vice president later arrived at the party secretariat around 12 noon and was cheerfully welcomed by hundreds of his supporters. Atiku, while receiving his expression of interest and nomination forms last week, had urged his supporters to overwhelm the party secretariat while submitting his forms until they are forced to give him the PDP ticket. Trouble, however, started when some thugs with APC posters invaded the Atiku supporters on the Michael Okpara Street, opposite the party secretariat.

According to an eyewitness who does not want his name in print, "The APC supporters started singing songs against the supporters of the former vice president. After which the supporters of Atiku retaliated, a fight broke out.� The thugs were seen using heavy sticks on themselves and in the process a man was beaten to stupor. They also chased themselves down to the main gate of the secretariat directly facing Skye Bank. When the fight became free for all, the Atiku supporters ran for safety, and subsequently forced the gate of the secretariat opened to seek refuge. This, however, led to stampede as many women were trampled on and in the process sustained minor injuries. To arrest the situation, therefore, the police on duty fired multiple gunshots to disperse the thugs. Meanwhile, Atiku while submitting his forms said that he would not be seeking nomination if the country was working. He noted that it weighs deeply in his heart that Nigeria has become the world headquarters for extreme poverty according to the World

Atiku Economic Forum and the World Poverty Clock. Atiku said he was also not happy that there had been so much killings and terror across the country, that the Global Terrorism Index rates Nigeria as more terrorised today than she was in 2015. He stated, “This is a sober moment for me. Today marks the beginning of my journey, our journey together, to get Nigeria working again. “I am very sad that 11 million Nigerians have become unemployed since May 29, 2015. And this does not include the millions more who never had a job since leaving school. I have created thousands of jobs in my private businesses and I know

how to lead a government that would do the same for Nigeria. “I ask all PDP delegates and indeed all Nigerians to join me at this sober moment to spare a thought for our country and to consider working with me to get Nigeria working again. This is a step into our future. “Let us work together to create the right conditions for investments to flow in and flourish to create jobs for our people. Let’s work together to send poverty packing. Let us, together, reduce corruption so that our resources will be deployed to our national priorities. Let us work together to fight all types of terrorism and other crimes. Let’s work together to restructure Nigeria for better governance and to unite our people.� He added that yesterday marked his first step to lead the efforts to move the people from extreme poverty to prosperity, from joblessness to employment, from senseless killings and fear to security, from so much division to being united around a shared vision and values, and from global irrelevance to a shining place in the comity of nations.

PDP BoT Bans

Members from Campaigning The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the PDP has banned its members from campaigning for any presidential aspirants on the platform of the party. The BoT Chairman, Senator Jibril Walid, while briefing journalists after the meeting held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, also said that the board was working to ensure that it reduces the increasing number of presidential aspirants but noted that it would not force any aspirant to step down. He stated, “If you are a member of BoT, you remain as a member of BoT and conscience of the party. They should not move about with any aspirant. If we are really conscience of the party, we should not move about with aspirants. “That was what happened during the last national convention when we elected the National Chairman. Some of us went and pitch camp with aspirants, taking them all over the place. “This time, we will not allow that to happen. Anyone of us who move about with any aspirant should resign from the BoT. We are the one that

will settle the complain. But if we are involved it will not be fair. So we have told the members not to campaign with the aspirants; we are also the delegates.� Walid also revealed that the BoT also deliberated on the current situation in the party as regards the increasing number of aspirants, while recommending that the situation should be well managed in order to avoid crisis. He said: “The presidential aspirants are 13, we are trying our best to ensure that the number is reduced. But we are not forcing anybody. More consultations are going among the elders. “We are going to bring out a committee that will be best for Nigerians. We are forming a committee to meet with the aspirants. After that we will decide on what to do. We have decided to form a special committee to advice the NWC.� The BoT insisted that there should be free and fair elections during the forthcoming primary and there should be no impunity, and no godfatherism. The board also appointed former Senate President, Adolphus Wabara, as substantive secretary of the BoT.

CBN DEBITS FOUR BANKS OVER N5.87 BILLION FINES For the banks, the highest fine of N2,470,604,767.13 was slammed on Standard Chartered Bank, while Stanbic IBTC Nigeria was fined N1,885,852,847.45. Citibank also got fine of N1,265,541,562.31, just as Diamond Bank was directed to pay N250 million penalty. But Stanbic IBTC in a statement explained: “Following our earlier announcement to the NSE on 30 August 2018, in respect of the penalty of N1.886 billion imposed by the CBN on our banking subsidiary – Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc in relation to the remittance of foreign exchange on the basis of certain capital importation certificates issued to MTN Nigeria Communications Limited, we write to update the NSE that the CBN has debited the account of our banking subsidiary with the CBN for the full amount of the above stated fine advised to the bank. “Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC as well as our banking subsidiary maintain our position on this matter, which is the fact that the bank has done nothing illegal and accordingly the bank will continue to provide CBN with documents

and details in support of our contention that our actions in relation to these transactions were not illegal. “Please note that this debit does not impact on the capacity of our banking subsidiary to handle clients’ requests or clients’ ability to continue to carry out viable business transactions with either the bank or any member of the Stanbic IBTC Group, whether in relation to the importation of capital or otherwise. “Our business transactions will continue to be handled professionally and in a manner that is aligned with Nigeria’s laws and regulatory guidelines.� Nonetheless, the central bank source who pleaded to remain anonymous, confirmed that the respective accounts of Standard Chartered Bank, Citibank and Diamond Bank, at the CBN, were all debited as well. Responding to a question on when MTN Nigeria would refund a total of $8.134 billion as directed by the CBN, the source said talks were still ongoing on when and how the fund would be returned to the country. CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele had explained that the hammer on MTN Nigeria was

because the telecom company took liberty for licence in flouting Nigeria’s foreign exchange laws in the manner of the funding of their equity investment into MTN and subsequent capital repatriation that resulted thereafter. “They brought in $402 million and said about $350 million of that was equity and the balance was loan, and they were issued Certificates of Capital Importation (CCIs) for the equity. “They later reversed that position when they realised that the loans will not attract the kind of taxation equity investment will attract. “And they altered the structure of their funding in a clear violation of the spirit and intent of Nigeria’s foreign exchange regulations,� the CBN Governor had explained. Emefiele had stressed MTN Nigeria manipulated the regulations for maximum profit and tax avoidance, without regards to the laws when they embarked on unauthorised conversion of loans to equity so as to game the system and exploit loopholes. Meanwhile, both the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Nigeria Customs

Service (NCS) indicated that they do not want to be dragged into the current allegation of $2 billion tax indebtedness by MTN Nigeria to the federal government. The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Mr. Abubakar Malami, had asked the telecoms company to remit the amount to the federal government having failed in its tax obligation within the past 10 years. But, MTN had however, insisted that all pending taxes had been settled. When THISDAY sought to know the step being taken by FIRS to ensure the taxes are recovered, officials kept mum about the matter. Although there was no formal statement from the FIRS, a top official of the agency said the matter had to do with import duties and should be handled by the customs. The FIRS source said it had limited information on the taxes in questions. Also, customs' spokesman, Deputy Comptroller Joseph Attah, told THISDAY over the telephone that other than, "pay your duty and get cleared," the service had nothing to do with the current issue with MTN.

MTN Faces Moody's Downgrade Meanwhile, the MTN Group is under review by Moody’s Investors Service, for a possible credit rating downgrade following the allegation of illegal repatriation as well a tax arrears in Nigeria totalling $10.1 billion. Moody's, one of the leading rating agencies in the world disclosed this in a statement obtained yesterday. “Moody's has today placed MTN Group Limited's (MTN or Group) Ba1 corporate family rating (CFR), Ba1-PD probability of default rating (PDR) and the Aa3.za national scale corporate family rating on review for downgrade. “Moody's has also placed the Ba1 rating on all the senior unsecured notes issued by MTN (Mauritius) Investments Limited on review for downgrade,� it stated. According to the agency, its decision followed the CBN allegation that the CCIs issued in respect of the conversion of shareholder loans in MTN Nigeria to preference shares in 2007 was improperly done as well as Attorney General’s notice to MTN Nigeria of an

intention to recover $2 billion in taxes relating to the importation of foreign equipment and payments to foreign suppliers over the last 10 years. “MTN's ratings have been placed on review for downgrade to reflect the uncertainty around the potential implications of the recent CBN and NAG announcements on MTN's credit profile. “MTN's management has indicated that both allegations are without merit and will be engaging with the relevant authorities to defend its position and to get more clarity on some of the requests being made. “As such, there remains a range of possible outcomes which will have different consequences on MTN's credit profile,� it added. Accordingly, Moody's said it would monitor the developments and would consider the credit implications as events unfold. “In the absence of the $8.1 billion refund demand and potential $1.3 billion tax liability shortfall, MTN has sufficient liquidity to repay approaching debt maturities over the next 12 to 18 months with the next sizable refinancing wall only in 2021,� it added.

Adviser (NSA), Major-General Babagana Monguno (rtd,), over the illegal and unauthorised search of his residence by the four officers. Though the elder statesman said he had accepted the public apology of the police, nonetheless he wants the matter to be thoroughly investigated and the real mastermind of the raid exposed. The South-south leader alleged that Deputy Commissioner of Police Yusuf Kolo, Commander of the IG Special Tactical Squad and Assistant Inspector General of Police (Federal Intelligence), Umoru Usman, were those who ordered the raid and search on his residence. In the petitions with reference

No KACCL/PET/KA/76/18 and dated September 6, 2018 signed by his lawyer, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, Clark wondered why the police authorities, who are in the know of the masterminds and conspirators of the invasion, are going after the four junior officers, who were merely carrying out instructions from their superiors. "It will be rather unfortunate for junior officers and men of the IG Tactical squad who were at best acting on the orders of their superiors to fall prey in this regard," he said in the petition. Ajulo stressed that Clark had been a frontline advocate against taking up of arms by the youths of the Niger-Delta and has been responsible for brokering peace

between the Niger-Delta and several administrations in Nigeria. In leading the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the lawyer said Clark had joined other stakeholders to put a halt to youth restiveness and wanton destruction of oil pipelines in the region and ultimately restore peace, thereby increasing production of Nigeria’s sustenance in oil production and encouraging foreign participation. He said the invasion of his Asokoro-Abuja residence has since fanned wrong embers, caused uproar and pandemonium in the Niger-Delta of which “our clients and others have been assiduously working to curtail.�

POLICE DISMISS THREE OFFICERS OVER RAID ON CLARK'S HOUSE three Inspectors namely: (i) AP/No. 18858 Inspr Godwin Musa (ii) AP/No. 225812 Inspr Sada Abubakar and (iii) AP/ No. 225828 Inspr Yabo Paul, and the immediate interdiction of AP. No 158460 ASP David Dominic who were involved in the unauthorised, illegal and unprofessional misconduct in the search of the residence of elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, in Asokoro, Abuja on September 4, 2018. "Ap. No. 158460 ASP David Dominic was queried and being investigated for discreditable conduct, negligence of duty and an act unbecoming of a police officer, which constitute serious misconduct and if not checked can be inimical to the image

of the Nigeria Police Force and violation of fundamental human rights of the elder statesman as provided for in the 1999 Constitution as amended. The gravity of the offences against the officer is serious in nature and dismissal from service is imminent. "Consequently, the Inspector General of Police approved that AP. No 158460 ASP David Dominic, be on interdiction from service pending the determination of his case by the Police Service Commission. "The IG also approved and upheld the dismissal from service of (i) AP/No. 18858 Inspr Godwin Musa (ii) AP/No. 225812 Inspr Sada Abubakar and (iii) AP/

No. 225828 Inspr Yabo Paul, after the trio were tried under Oath in Orderly Room Trial for discreditable conduct, illegal duty, disobedience to lawful order and other misconduct contrary to the rule of law. "The suspect (informant), Ismail Yakubu, from Waru Village, Apo District, Abuja, has been charged to Upper Area Court Mpape, Abuja for giving false information and telling falsehood that misled police action.�

Clark Petitions Buhari, NSA Meanwhile, Clark has petitioned both President Muhammadu Buhari and the National Security

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

NIGERIA: BEFORE WE HIT DIAMOND Nigeria needs visionary leaders to take her to the Promised Land, writes Idowu Omisore

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alaysia’s 60th independence anniversary celebration last Friday (August 31, 2018) set me thinking vigorously about the future of the world’s most populous black nation, my fatherland - Nigeria. On Thursday, October 1, 2020, our dear nation will hit the diamond age. Will it be a time to roll out drums, dance freely, pop champagne, wine and dine? Expectedly, there will be a special presidential address on D-Day and millions of naira will be disbursed for a rich variety of events after which everything will go back to ‘normal’. A sage once said that the best way to create the future is to invent it. We cannot continue to pray and wish that things get better without taking steps critical to progress and doing things differently. Are there lessons we can learn from Malaysia before we turn 60? First of all, we have to clearly define our national vision and values, otherwise we will continue to move without a sense of direction. Each government that comes to power will come with its own plans and policies which may not be consistent with those of the previous. There is no clear vision we have consistently pursued since we became politically independent. With respect to values, our national anthem powerfully sets forth values such as service to fatherland, love, honesty, patriotism, truth, unity, peace and justice. Until we intentionally adopt and practise these values, the future will continue to hang in the balance. Our mindset must change positively if we are going to be able to challenge the status quo. We just have to change the way we think individually. Our leaders need to think beyond winning elections and actualising their selfish dreams. It has been said that everything rises and falls on leadership, meaning that, we are where we are today because of the actions and inactions of our past and present leaders. How can we ever exonerate them from blame? This is why we have to carefully choose our next set of leaders in the forthcoming elections. Get your permanent voter card (PVC) and ensure you vote, don’t join the group of those who do nothing but complain and complain. We are massively endowed with both human and mineral resources yet we are trapped in this chrysalis of poverty. We need visionary leaders who can take us from where we are, as a nation, to where we ought to be. Speaking of the essence of envisioning, Malaysia’s leaders are currently running with the vision called National Transformation 2050 (TN50), which is a fresh 30-year transformation plan aimed at transforming Malaysia into a top 20 country in the world by the year 2050. Nigeria’s vision 2020 which is “By 2020 Nigeria will be one of the 20 largest economies in the world, able to consolidate its leadership role in Africa and establish itself as a significant player in the global economic and political arena� is laudable but the handwriting of failure is written over the vision because we are yet to create the right conditions necessary for its actualisation. Since we gained independence, we have not been able to stamp out epileptic power supply neither have we built systems to consistently boost the standard of living of citizens. Policy instability, corruption and lack of political will have kept us down, at low ebb yet we have the potential to rise and become Africa’s economic superpower. Unlike us, Malaysia prides herself on having

UNLESS BASICS OF FOOD, WATER, HOUSING, HEALTH, EDUCATION, TRANSPORT AND POWER ARE EFFECTIVELY ADDRESSED BY OUR LEADERS, IT MIGHT BE DIFFICULT FOR US TO GET OUT OF THE LIST OF POOR COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD

a relatively stable economy with its parade of notably successful export-focused manufacturing industries dealing in electrical and electronic goods, timber, textiles, rubber products, palm oil and tin, to mention a few. The World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report 2016-2017 attested to the fact that Malaysia is “continuing its upward trend�. Following this further, the basics must be strategically addressed. Food is crucial. As a country, have we been able to harness our agricultural potential to the extent of growing food sufficient to feed 200 million mouths let alone exporting to other countries? Admittedly, Malaysia became politically independent 36 months before us but we share certain similarities such as colonial heritage and stage of development in the 1960s with agriculture as the major economic driver. Seduced by the oil boom, we paid less attention to agriculture while Malaysia went on to become a top supplier of primary products to the advanced nations of the world. Today, Nigeria is not in the same class with Malaysia, which is now a dynamic, global economic force. With the different alternatives coming up to drastically reduce the demand for oil and the consequent fall in its prices in the international market, every oil-producing nation needs to think ahead and diversify. When the matter of food security is dealt with, the problem of poverty is halfsolved. Imagine a situation, where we still have states civil servants are being owed salaries for months. Consider the ripple effects. How will the affected families feed, cater for the needs of their children and loved ones? Unless basics of food, water, housing, health, education, transport and power are effectively addressed by our leaders, it might be difficult for us to get out of the list of poor countries in the world. What is more, corruption must be aggressively dealt with. The anti-graft agencies must be empowered to fight corruption without fear or favour. Unless corruption is ruthlessly dealt with, we have no future. Corruption deepened poverty; the monies that are supposed to be used to provide basic social and welfare amenities are embezzled. There are too many cases of corruption that are yet to be resolved due to our sluggish judicial process. The complicated part is that the society itself overtly and subtly encourages corruption understandably because of the entrenched poverty and the vehement desire to escape from its grip. There are many problems that are with us today because of the corrupt leaders that ruled this country since independence. All in all, we need to have a clear vision; adopt the right values; provide basics for the people; sincerely fight corruption and overhaul the different sectors of the economy. Interestingly, it was in 1960, that we gained our independence that the Asian tigers Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan - started taking their quantum leaps. Many countries that we started the race with have left us behind. All hope is not lost but we have to wake up and start moving. It is true that Rome was not built in a day but at least, there was a blueprint for its construction and a determination to build it to finish. Presently, we are living below our potential as a country but we can change this negative narrative by doing the right things that can move us ahead. Omisore, an inspirational author, wrote from Lagos

PUBLIC SERVICE AND EFFECTIVE MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT Ofem Uket argues that the service is in good hands

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ontrary to views held by some on the training and re-training of personnel in the public service, it is imperative to straighten the record that there has been regular training of civil servants across ministries, departments and agencies within the last three years, more than ever before. Rather than reverse to the old order, the present administration has ensured that budget performance in public service is significantly improved to meet the yearnings and aspirations of the people in and outside the public service. Out of the 25, 000 civil servants promised to be trained by the Office of the Head of Civil Service, a substantive part of the personnel had been trained, while some are currently undergoing one form of training or the other. Only last month, potential retirees due at the end of 2018 were taken through agricultural training to build their capacity in commercial farming after retirement as the monthly pensions are considered inadequate and barely enough to feed families. There are ongoing training schemes on Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for civil servants in various MDAs, including the effective manpower planning development training that is going on across board in the public service, declared opened by the Head of Service Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita. Addressing participants at the opening

ceremony, she said the workshop was aimed at building capacity and inculcating in the officers the right competencies in the process of reviewing manpower needs with a view to addressing challenges associated with manpower planning and budgeting in the service. She said the regular training of civil servants is a pre-requisite to actualise the lofty ideals enshrined in Mr. President’s agenda for the Nigerian civil service and the transformation of the civil service as envisaged in the new reform initiative under the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan, 2017-2020. The Head of Civil Service of the Federation, represented at the workshop by the Permanent Secretary, Common Services Office, Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mr. Ayodele O. Folayan, noted that an overview of the civil service manpower planning has shown recurring trend of inaccurate database, poor statistics, unrealistic forecasts, extraneous influences with resultant overstaffing, and over-bloated budgetary allocations to cater for salaries, incomes, wages and other related fringe benefits of civil servants. Mrs.Oyo-Ita reiterated that the new civil service ethos of efficient, productive, incorruptible and citizen-centered (EPIC) service must be brought to bear in determining appropriate manning levels, as well as check

the recurring unrealistic manpower needs assessment undertaken by MDAs. Arguably, civil servants’ performances in carrying out government business can be described as not too effective and efficient over the years; flaws are recorded in the yearly budget estimates forwarded to the National Assembly, and delays in applying orders and directives to streamline methods of operations. However, the ongoing reform addresses some basic impediments which is why training and re-training of staff are initiated and carried out by the head of service routinely as contained in the scheduled outlined for 2018 up to 2020. The aspects right now are implementations, though there may be delays associated with inadequate funds, but the strategy must be achieved as planned to win trust and confidence. We have to attach relevance to performance rather than take delight in complaints and protests as means of correcting mistakes. Little or nothing is heard of the ongoing training programmes and the already completed phases of training of civil servants, which is not good enough. In what seemed to be putting across demands by protesting civil servants in the past, training was mentioned at a time potential retirees were undergoing orientation scheme in agriculture at the Public Service Institute, Abuja. That points to the fact that

when a batch is undergoing training and others are yet to be slated, those awaiting complain of not being trained. The civil servants must see themselves as leaders not followers at all times. The process of governance and its schedule at the head of service is extremely open to every civil servant to know when trainings and its groupings are undertaken to clearly tell all that the exercise is conducted in batches and not a one-off. The reform strategy has a performance contract of over two years from now to its terminal date of 2020, a period within which every element of the reform process must have been dealt with to enthrone a new civil service structure that will be optimal in performance and reflective of an economy that is sustainable. Good governance is not rocket science, but a commitment to trust, which essentially is the focus of the present leadership of the HOS: putting pen to paper, making relevant consultations and training the best hands in the public service to achieve the new civil service that is longed for in decades. The road map to attain this objective may be rough, but certainly attainable with the synergy among all the stakeholders, all desirous of having things done to ensure a sustainable development and a peopleoriented civil service structure in Nigeria in the year 2020.

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T H I S D AY FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

EDITORIAL REVAMPING THE EDUCATION SECTOR The road map already adopted by the last Federal Executive Council will be of immense help

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hat the quality of teachers and other academic infrastructure at the level of basic education in the country are major challenges is no longer in doubt. Despite the Universal Basic Education (UBE) scheme, many states maintain a truly pathetic profile in the form and content of their curricula. This is hardly surprising, as many of them have consistently failed to access the federal government’s counterpart funding arrangement that offers a clear rescue path. They are unwilling to provide the matching funds for the UBE intervention and are therefore on the run from the generosity of the federal government. The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has repeatedly lamented the failure of state governments to access and use the funds. This is in addition to states which collect it and divert same to political patronage, or which put their counterpart funds as bait to draw federal government’s support and quickly pocket theirs. To address this problem the commission should publish the list of defaulting states and invite the serious ones for “Expressions of Interest” in the unutilised funds. However, pre-priOUR POST PRIMARY mary school education should be made to INSTITUTIONS function within a NEED A COMPLETE well articulated and OVERHAUL. THIS enforceable policy SHOULD BEGIN WITH framework. The entry A COMPREHENSIVE and exit into education CAPACITY AUDIT OF THE management at this level should be reguACADEMIC STAFF lated and standardised. A modern testing instrument should be developed and administered to potential/existing proprietors and staff of early childhood educational facilities to audit the system. The many well-meaning associations and groups acting in disparate ways to help in this regard should be properly warehoused and coordinated. A national competition to determine the best 10 pre-primary school facilities in the country should also be part of a cocktail of incentives to encourage excellence here.

Letters to the Editor

The much-vaunted professionalism of teaching should be pursued with new timelines while the Teachers’ Registration Council (TRC) and the Nigerian Teachers’ Institute (NTI) may well be merged, to have all matters relating to teachers domiciled in one address. Our post primary institutions need a complete overhaul. This should begin with a comprehensive capacity audit of the academic staff. Research capacity should also be strengthened and the criteria for academic promotion made more rigorous.

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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 BOLAJI ADEBIYI, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE 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

bove all, the reward system and the eligibility criteria for leadership of the trade and academic unions should be reviewed to favour serious academics. Those who want trade union platforms as springboard to political visibility should be subtly distanced from such platforms. The government should also always honour its agreements with the teachers, so that attention can move from trade disputes to exchange of ideas for the development of the system. The governing boards of our universities and polytechnics should be populated with people whose relevant exposure will add value to post secondary education. The federal government only needs to pay attention to the mistaken assumption that an appointment into the governing board of any institution is an opportunity to confer political patronage. The Federal Ministry of Education should reduce the excess luggage it now carries by merging some of its agencies. For instance, the continued retention of the staff of the Unity Colleges as staff of the ministry promotes inefficiency and nurtures abuse in the system. All said, the federal government can begin dealing with the emergency in education by NOT convening another national summit on education. Not only have there been many of such, there is already a road map adopted by the last Federal Executive Council. The many insightful suggestions can be structured with timelines and an implementation template so that specific action points are isolated and treated. Only a return to those neglected details that make for a credible educational system can rescue the nation from the current deplorable situation.

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.

SARAKI, PDP AND FUTURE OF NIGERIA

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he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will hold its national convention on October 6, 2018, 20 years after its first national convention in Jos in 1998. Just as it was 20 years ago, PDP is faced with an important task that will redefine PDP, save Nigeria from tyranny and misrule that has succeeded in making Nigeria the poverty capital of the world. The October 6th 2018 PDP national convention offers PDP a chance to correct its mistakes and renew itself or whether it will continue on a path of decline. Together, as PDP members and supporters of Bukola Saraki for president, we are working to build a united and strong party. We are campaigning for the election of a leader that has been through the storm. Survived all the attacks against him to emerge the leader of the opposition and give PDP a life line. A leader that has the commitment, doggedness to take the battle to the enemy camp and defeat the enemy, one who has unrivalled capacity to achieve, a bridge builder and a leader who is ready to effectively lead the reorganisation of Nigeria and grow our economy again. For these reasons, we are calling on PDP members to nominate and elect Bukola Saraki as the next President of Nigeria. We are calling on PDP to make the right choice as the 6th of October draws closer. Bukola Saraki represents hope and PDP will win in 2019 with him. He is PDP best choice and we cannot afford to waste our best chance at the presidency and gamble with old politicians who can’t win their wards. Bukola Saraki is a unifier and a builder. He has always

promoted unity and cohesion. He was pivotal in the formation of the eighth National Assembly and made sure that PDP still got the position of the deputy senate president. He is competent and capable. In every role he has undertaken, Bukola Saraki has demonstrated great skills and ability. He has been successful as a business leader, governor and senate president. He has an excellent understanding of the economy and governance. He was the governor of Kwara State for eight years and changed the face of governance in Kwara State, embarking on far reaching reforms across the health, educational, agriculture and other key sectors that enhance the lives of the people. He was the leader of Nigeria Governors’ Forum, providing key leadership for governors across Nigeria at a young age. PDP will bounce back to winning ways with Bukola Saraki, as he will accelerate the process of meaningful radical economic transformation that will put Nigeria on the path of progress and change the narrative that has led Nigeria to be the poverty capital of the world. As a committed leader, Bukola Saraki will go beyond slogans and rhetoric to undertake the practical tasks that will transform the economy, while ensuring that it grows at a much faster rate and creates jobs that will make life better for Nigerians. As Nigeria’s economic ambassador, he will not demarket Nigeria on the global stage like Muhammadu Buhari. He will take decisive steps to restore investor confidence, attract the needed foreign direct investment that made it possible

for him to build the Shonga Farm in Kwara as the then state governor. Bukola Saraki as an outstanding legislator and current senate president possess the ability to embark on far reaching reforms. Under his leadership as the senate president, the eighth senate has passed more bills than any previous senate, it has resolved more petitions than all past senates combined, it supported and passed the Not Too Young To Run bill, opened the NASS budget for public scrutiny; it concluded the constitution amendment and passed the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill (PIGB) which seeks to provide for the governance and institutional framework for a renewed and transparent petroleum industry. Specifically, the PIGB seeks to unbundle the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), provide for the establishment of Federal Ministry of Petroleum Incorporated and Nigerian Petroleum Regulatory Commission. Sadly, President Buhari failed to assent to this bill. According to global extractive industry watchdog, publish what you pay, (PWYP), Nigeria is losing N3 trillion annually for failing to put in place a proper legislation for the oil and gas industry. Bukola Saraki understands the issues and is not a blamer and excuse giver. He will truly lead from the front and change the narrative about Nigeria and our great party PDP. The choice for PDP delegates is to make history with Saraki and nominate him as the party’s standard bearer come 6th October 2018. Kabiru Sani, Lagos

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T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

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roup Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Email nseobong.okonekong@thisdaylive.com 08114495324 SMS ONLY

POLITICS

PERSPECTIVE

THE GAME CHANGER SOKOTO STATE NEEDS By Abdul Malik

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okoto State occupies a special place in the socio-political history of Nigeria. Having produced Nigeria’s first executive President, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, Sokoto is also home to the Sultan, spiritual head of the Muslims in Nigeria. Though the current Sokoto State was created on February 3, 1976, its historical greatness dates back to Usman dan Fodio, founder of the Sokoto Caliphate in 1804- who initiated a very formidable administrative system that held ground until the British invasion of the territory in 1903- he reigned as the first Sultan of Sokoto, from 1803 to 1815. Dan Fodio, more inclined towards the religious reforms which he introduced and pursued vigorously than the pomp of political rule, passed the leadership of the Sokoto Caliphate to his son, Muhammed Bello, who became

Yabo

More than anything else, perhaps it is his towering and intimidating profile that sets him apart as the most qualified to be crowned governor in 2019. Here is a man, who has served as Commissioner for Finance of the state under the former governor, Senator Aliyu Wamako- regarded easily as the biggest political heavyweight in Sokoto State

Sultan. Instructively, the Sokoto Caliphate which Dan Fodio founded held sway from 1804 to 1903, when the British invaded the territory, abolished the caliphate and put the area under the Northern Nigeria Protectorate. Despite that turn of events, however, the Sokoto Caliphate remains an influential chapter in Nigeria’s political evolution till today. \Sokoto added yet another important chapter to Nigeria’s fledgling political firmament with the emergence of Alhaji Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, one of the leading lights of pre-independence Nigeria, as Premier of the Northern Region, and of course leader of the Northern People’s Congress (NPC). Alhaji Bello was a dominant personality in Nigerian politics throughout the early days of the Nigerian federation and the First Republic, till his death in the first military coup on January 15, 1966. Yet, Sokoto’s sterling contributions to Nigeria’s formation and growth continued to be on the ascendancy as the years rolled into decades,

to lead the state in the next elections; and, in doing so, equity, loyalty, experience, skills and academic laurels should be paramount in who qualifies to wear the crown. There may be a number of candidates in the two leading parties in the state, the APC and PDP, but Sokoto State appears very fortunate to have a seasoned and experienced technocrat who the cap fits in social, academic, economic and political terms. The candidate, Hon. Faruk Malami Yabo, unlike many politicians, who lack the patience and equanimity for sacrifice, has waited patiently over the years even though he was previously pencilled down to run for the office of governor of the state. More than anything else, perhaps it is his towering and intimidating profile that sets him apart as the most qualified to be crowned governor in 2019. Here is a man, who has served as Commissioner for Finance of the state under the former governor, Senator Aliyu Wamako- regarded easily as the biggest political heavyweight in Sokoto State. A professional accountant of repute, his experience and professionalism were credited with the improvement of the state’s internally generated revenue, bringing Sokoto State second only to Lagos State, which is the richest from the early political years after independence state in Nigeria. Thus, the management of and First Republic, to the Second Republic at resources to bring about the improvement of key infrastructures in the state are credited the return to civil rule. Thus, Sokoto’s influence and importance in to Yabo’s skills. Indeed, Wamako, as governor, was so Nigeria’s political landscape got accentuated with the emergence of Alhaji Shehu Shagari as impressed by Yabo’s performance as Finance the country’s first executive president in 1979. Commissioner that he had no second thoughts Historically, Sokoto has always wielded influence in appointing him as Commissioner for Local on the political direction of Nigeria, hence its Government and Community Development, importance to the country’s administrative a position that brought to the fore, the social pathways. Given its long and rich history engineering abilities of Yabo, as he galvanised therefore, the governor of the state is of great the people and built social infrastructure with significance and concern, both to the elite and peace reigning throughout all the nooks and people of the state, as well as the general Nigerian crannies of the state. Yabo studied Public public. With the defection of Governor Aminu Administration at the Bayero University Kano Tambuwal from the All Progressives Congress and also holds a Master’s degree in Public (APC) to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Policy Administration (MPPA) from the same the political permutations of who becomes the university. next governor of the state has become open. It therefore behoves the elite of Sokoto State, NOTE: Interested readers should continue in leaders of the APC in the state and at the national the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com level, to look keenly at choosing a candidate

HOW THE LOT FELL ON TONYE COLE By Tonye Princewill

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eing one of the few privileged to be in the room when the decision was taken, one would have expected me to speak a little sooner. After all, I have been known to shoot from the hip, speak my mind plus my thoughts on any issue. I had played out a series of scenarios in my head and to each one, an appropriate set of responses was measured and kept waiting. I thought it wise to let the likely political gladiators for governor of Rivers State have their say first, before doing my own justice to the moment. That time has come. I thank God for his grace to see this day. Having decided to sit this 2019 contest out, I had repeatedly told my supporters and my associates that my role in this process was to be a facilitator, to help the leader and his leaders achieve victory in 2019. I joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) to help ease Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State out of government house, not to run for the position of governor. The fact that I saw Hon. Rotimi Amaechi as head and shoulders above Wike and saw the Buhari/Osinbajo collabo as better than our recent past, did not hurt either. APC members were warm and welcoming to me and it felt real good coming home. I never hid my preference for a Riverine governor, preferably of Kalabari origin, but in the end, I said, power must rotate; by negotiation. Under two years of being in APC, our work

Cole

in Rivers State is no longer business as usual. A more formidable team has been assembled and with new direction, our fortunes have been given sound assurance. The question that was before Amaechi and the rest of us, was “Who would bell the wicked cat?” If it was an easy decision it would have been made earlier. I was a witness to, at least, two caucus meetings chaired by

Amaechi on the issue and several one-on-one meetings that spanned many months. Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs and Dr. Dakuku Peterside had put up a good case for their consideration, Engr. Bekinbo Dagogo Jack had also made himself available; and to be honest, any of them could have done us proud given the chance. However, Amaechi’s preference, our preference rested on the shoulders of Tonye Cole. I say our preference because, it was not imposed on us. We all agreed.“Amaechi leads, we follow.” Not only when it suits us. It was not dependent on how he led, neither was it dependent on where he led. This was hard for me to swallow because I am used to being my own boss, being The Candidate, but I opted to be a team player by choice. My word to my team is my bond. Good leaders must also be good followers. Independence is growth, but interdependence, when independent people join hands, is maturity. Some people will encourage rebellion, some will prod us into exercising our independent streak. Many for valid reasons, some to further deplete our resources. What is a cause for some of us, is a job for others. I hope we will resist that temptation. Tonye Cole is my choice and I urge us all to support him. It’s either him or Wike. He has a track record of success, not failure. He puts his friends above profit. He’s not materialistic and he represents a total departure from the status quo. Let’s actually try something truly new. We may get different results. It will take some getting used to- for all of us, for him, the

party and Rivers State. I’ve had my differences with him, as I have too with Amaechi, but I’ve never had cause to doubt their ability to deliver and their concern for the fate of those who are less privileged. In Tonye, we have a very quiet Kalabari son, not a stranger to the atmosphere of politics (thanks to his colossus of a father). In Tonye, we have a man who can speak the language of business and a man who knows how to create jobs. He is not an ethnic jingoist, so he will see the whole state as his constituency, not just a part of it. We as Kalabaris will come out en masse to support him. I thank our Leader, Amaechi for giving Cole this opportunity to govern this great state. You stood by us when you did not have to. We will never forget. My message will not be complete without thanking the party. You have been open to change while standing by the Leader. I will also like to thank the elders. Your wisdom got us here. Let me also thank Hon. Byke Wanjoku and the IYM for sticking their necks out for us when it was not popular. Let me thank all of the other ethnic units of Rivers state, we respect you, we are coming and we need your support. To Ibiamu, Ngerebara, Dumo, Dakuku, Bekinbo, Dawari, Tolofari, Sokonte and all my Ijaw brothers, Haaaa Izon! We did it! It’s time to lead well. Truth has no hiding place. It‘s time to set Rivers state free- peace, security, jobs, empowerment for all. Princewill is the Convener, Riverine Leaders APC - Rivers State

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T H I S D AY • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

PERSPECTIVE

APC’S POTENT WEAPON TO WIN ESAN NORTH EAST/ESAN SOUTH EAST By Okadigbo Austin

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o doubt the battle for 2019 general elections has started across the country; Edo state inclusive. Politicians have started oiling their political machines. There are alignments and realignments across political parties. These are strategies by politicians to position themselves. Esan North East/Esan South East Federal Constituency is one of the two federal constituencies in Edo Central Senatorial District. This district is regarded as the strong hold of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State as a result of the calibre of leaders it parades including a former Board of Trustees Chairman of party, Chief Tony Anenih, former Minister of Works Mike Onolemenmean, Senator Odion Ugbesia, Chief Francis Ulinfoh, Senator Clifford Ordia and other notable leaders. It took the former governor of Edo State and National Chairmna of the All Progressives Party (APC), Adams Oshiomhole a great deal before he was able to make an inroad into the senatorial district forcing many leaders into compulsory political retirement. Esan North East/Esan South East is currently being represented by Hon. Sergius Ogun in the House of Representatives. Apart from the fact that he is perceived to have performed, it’s also the tradition of the PDP to always return their elected officials for a second term. Going by this, it’s certain that the PDP will field Ogun for a second term in 2019. Ogun is loved by his party leaders and his immediate constituency, to an extent. He is seen as a good man who is different from the regular. His philanthropic disposition has also endeared him to the people. It’s going to be a hard task for anyone in the APC to wrestle power from Ogun. But it is not an impossible mission if proactive, calculative, and tactical measures are deployed. Looking at history and the voting strength in this constituency, if APC is sincere in its primaries without unproductive sentiment, Ogun will be defeated. Picking an APC candidate from Esan South East LG where Ogun hails from will be counter-productive because Ogun will readily defeat anyone from this axis irrespective of party affiliation and then get the bulk votes from Esan North East the Local Government of Anenih and Onolemenmen. If APC must pick from the same Local Government as Ogun, he must be a candidate that has deep roots in Esan North East and a political icon with

Okojie

that virtue is seriously lacking in the Local Government at the moment. There is an available potent weapon that the APC can use to dislodge Ogun. He is Prince Odi Okojie from Uromi, Esan North East. Like Ogun, he is a philanthropist who has empowered youths, women and the aged. He is loved by old and young. He is seen as the face of youths in that constituency. Given the ticket, he will give Ogun a run for his money. If there is anyone today that Ogun wants to avoid in the 2019 contest, it’s Okojie. Many of the leaders actually know this. Okojie has so many things working for to ensure victory for the APC. Okojie is from a royal family in Uromi Esan North East. He is a cousin to the Onojie, the Ojuromi of Uromi, His Royal Majesty Anslem Okojie and the APC leader Prince Joe Okojie who was an immediate past Commissioner and presently Special Adviser to Gov Obaseki. Esan North East is the largest Local Government with the highest number of votes. Apart from the fact that Okojie is loved by his people, the Uromis don’t abandon their own in any contest. They have this history of rallying round their own in elections irrespective of political affiliation. This will no doubt swing the votes from this axis for the APC and Okojie. It is near impossible for the Uromis to abandon their own and vote an outsider. He is also going to get sympathy votes from

this Local Government because of what many believe was an injustice done to him by the PDP when he lobbied for the Deputy Governor slot in the last governorship election. Being in the APC now, he also has the capacity to pull a substantial amount of votes from the PDP in the LG. It is believed that as his former party, many of the leaders love him and were not happy with the way he was treated before he eventually changed political party loyalty to the APC. Many leaders in the PDP are still making frantic efforts to bring him back to the party. All the youths in this constituency will naturally vote to Okojie because of his youth empowerment programmes and the fact that he is one of them and understands for youth inclusiveness in governance. Okojie’s wife, Mercy Johnson-Okojie is a renowned Nollywood star, who also commands great respect in the constituency. She is very well loved, especially by women. She will be able to pull the women out to vote for her husband and the APC. She also has a foundation with with which she empowers women annually. She is highly attracted to the women because of her ability to speak their language fluently though she is not from Esan. Another factor that will swing votes for Okojie is his parental background. His mother Mrs. Elizabeth Okojie (nee Ataihon) is from Emu, his grandmother from Ukhuesan, while his step mother is from Ewohimi all in Esan South East.This a very good factor that will also sway

There is an available potent weapon that the APC can use to dislodge Ogun. He is Prince Odi Okojie from Uromi, Esan North East. Like Ogun, he is a philanthropist who has empowered youths, women and the aged. He is loved by old and young. He is seen as the face of youths in that constituency. Given the ticket, he will give Ogun a run for his money votes in his favour. Embarking on a campaign for political office is capital intensive. Confronting and defeating Ogun will require someone with a broad financial war chest. This is also an advantage for the APC if Okojie is considered. As a business mogul in oil and gas, he has the financial capacity and capability to engage Ogun and ensure victory for the APC. The people are silently angry with some leaders of the PDP for not doing anything for the people when they were in govt. The people are currently bitter that these leaders were silent because there was no alternative platform for them to express their anger. With Okojie on board, there is a better opportunity to deal with the leaders. On the other hand, there are a couple of respected APC leaders in Esan South East, particularly from Ewohimi. They include Mr. Victor Eboigbe and Hon. J. Ikpea who can also garner votes for the APC. From the Uromi axis, Prince Joe Okojie is the APC leader in Esan North East. He is highly respected and has large followership. The royal father, the Onojie and the Ojuromi of Uromi, his Royal Majesty Anslem Okojie will also play an important role in convincing his subjects to vote for the APC and his cousin. Okadigbo Austin write from Ekpoma

OKOROCHA AND THE BAN ON IMO JOURNALISTS By Amby Uneze

A

bout one year ago when Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha barred two prominent journalists- Chidi Nkwopara of Vanguard Newspapers and Amby Uneze of THISDAY Newspapers from covering his activities, the earth was not shaken to its foundation. Goings-on at the Imo State Government House remained the same. Some may argue that it went down to its lowest ebb, making the place very unattractive to journalists. A local tabloid quoted the governor saying he would not rescind his decision to ban the two journalists when the State Chairman of Correspondents’ chapel, Steve Uzoechi pleaded with him to lift the embargo. Okorocha said “the two correspondents are in the habit of giving negative coverage on my government.” The governor alleged that “Nkwopara’s anti-government posture started with the demolition of Ekeukwu Owerre market.” The journalist, according to the governor, wrote damning reports on the issue and incited people against his administration. The governor turned down the request to lift the prohibition of the journalists, stressing that they always bear animosity towards him.“Their coming to Government House is repugnant to me,” he said. MY STAND Imo State Government House popularly called ‘Douglas House’ and rechristened ‘Peoples’ House’ by Okorocha, is not the private property of

Okojie

Okorocha. Every Imo indigene or visitor has the right to it. As a journalist in a prominent media organisation, I am entitled to visit the Government House in the course of duty. The governor does not have the right to ban any journalist from covering activities in the government house, expect such a governor has a skeleton in his cupboard. Okorocha’s ban has not affected my duties in the state. I am effectively covering the activities in the state, Government House inclusive. It is, however, important to state that most of

I cannot celebrate a man who keeps malice against his subjects and does not follow due process. Okorocha’s major achievement in seven years is the continuous empowerment of his family members. He has kept the people under excruciating agony under the disguise of urban renewal. The governor seems to be succeeding with humiliating journalists in the state because of the ineffectiveness of the leadership of the Imo State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). The union should have risen to the occasion by calling his bluff. I commend the leadership qualities of the state Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Steve Uzoechi for pleading with the governor unban the two journalists who were humiliated for writing the truth about some of the unpopular policies and activities of the state government. It is also pertinent to bring to the notice of the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command and the general public the threat to my life which is being orchestrated by the state government and its agents. I recall the last phone call put across to me by the Chief of Staff, Government the journalists in the state do not have any House, Chief Uche Nwosu expressing anger business in government house because that about my stories that were not favourable to place is ‘dead’. No meaningful programme the state government. He threatened that if goes on there. I would be made to face the wrath of the For the governor of a state to say that the government, if I did not me to desist from presence of some people is repulsive to him, writing such stories. Recently, a group of thugs simply means he is not worthy to be the servant emerged from the APC state office at Okigwe of the people. He does not understand the oath Road and converged at a joint. The subject of of office which is predicated on ‘doing good to their discussion was how to deal with me for all manner of people’. The governor’s attitude to daring the state government over some of my governance has indeed earned him ‘disrespect’ reports. I also urge the state government and and makes the state a ‘laughing stock’. her agents to stop threatening my life.

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BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET OBB OVERNIGHT

A S

A T

REPO 6.00 % 6.83 %

CALL 1-MONTH 3-MONTH

5.10% 5.25 % 5.50%

A U G U S T S & P INDEX INDEX LEVEL 1-DAY MONTH-TO-DATE

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

3 1 , 2 0 1 8

͹Ͳͳ˛͜; Ϲ ͎̋˛;ͰϹ -2.60%

S & P INDEX 1/4 TO DATE -2.35% YEAR TO DATE 4.89%

EXCHANGE RATE N306.15/1US DOLLAR* ĚŠ

Quick Takes SAHCOL Appoints New MD

MARITIME SECURITY

L-R: Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza-Bala Usman; Minister of Defense, Brigadier General Mansur Dan Ali, (RTD) and Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, during the commissioning of the Fast Patrol Craft and Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats at the Naval Dockyard in Lagos‌recently

Nigerian Ports Record Mixed Performance as Vessel Traffic Declines 2.3% in Q1 Eromosele Abiodun Despite efforts by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to ensure the nation’s ports run efficiently, Nigerian ports recorded mixed fortunes in the first quarter (Q1) of 2018. Performance report released by the NPA during the Nigerian Port Consultative Council (PCC) quarterly meeting held in Lagos revealed that the number of vessels which called at the ports during the period shrunk by 2.3 per cent. However, there was an improvement in the turn-around time of vessels. This increase, according to the report, was because of concerted efforts of

MARITIME the management of NPA to improvement on port infrastructure and implementation of federal government’s Executive Order on Ease of Doing Business. Analysis of the numbers showed that vessel traffic slumped from 1,008 vessels in the fourth quarter of 2017 to 985 vessels during the period under review, representing a decline of 2.3 per cent. Gross tonnage of ship stood at 31,693,650 as against 32,598,477 recorded in the fourth quarter of 2017, representing a decline of 2.8 per cent.

In the same vein, container traffic in the Q1 of 2018 dropped. Further analysis of the statistics showed that within the period under review, container traffic stood at 387,016 Total Equivalent Unit (TEUs), indicating a decrease of 7.1 per cent from 416,806 TEUs handled by the same ports in the fourth quarter of 2017. Also, vehicle traffic within the period under review dropped as a total of 37, 584 vehicles were handled by NPA within the period under review, representing a decrease of 13.2 per cent from 43,338 units received in the previous quarter. Conversely, the ports recorded an impressive cargo throughput,

recording 18,729,889 metric tons of goods in Q1 as against the 17,250,334 metric tons of cargo the seaports received in the fourth quarter of 2017, indicating an increase of 8.6 per cent. The inward traffic stood at 10,617,318 metric tons, representing 56.7 per cent of cargo throughput at the ports in the Q1 of 2018 while the outward cargo traffic was said to be 8,112,671 metric tons representing 46.3 per cent of the total cargo traffic. However, the turn-around time of vessels stood at 3.8 days when compared with 4.1 days in fourth quarter of 2017 while Continued on page 20

Enugu Govt Delays Installation of Airport Facilities Chinedu Eze The Enugu state government has failed to provide land for the installation of safety critical landing aids at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. The state government had in March, assured the Minister of State, Aviation, Hadi Sirika, that it would clear the area where approach light and other equipment would be installed to upgrade the airport to operate night service. But on Wednesday a team led by the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Muhtar Usman and the acting Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Director, Engineering Services, Salisu Daura, inspected facilities at the airport and said landing aids would only be installed if the land was cleared. Usman explained that the two

AVIATION ends of the runway must be cleared for the installation of approach light, saying because the runway was recently extended and expanded, those who occupy the airport land must be removed before the equipment would be installed. To extend operating time for the airport from 6:00 am to 12:00 midnight, the new equipment must be installed, which will enable the airport to fully serve international flights. Currently only Ethiopia Airlines operates to Enugu airport but there are indications that Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways and Air Peace want to operate international destinations from the airport if the facilities were installed. The Director General of NCAA said all the equipment had been procured to be installed at the airport but

without clearing the land the equipment may not be installed and may continue to rot. “To keep an airport open for 24 hours a day requires a lot. You have to have all the lightening and equipment to ensure it operates at night. There should be landing aids to ensure safety in terms of landing. Security and adequate fire cover must be provided. Personnel and training of personnel must be put in place. “We saw during our tour that the instrument landing system, the approach field lighting system have been acquired by government but the only problem is the deployment. As a result of the extension of the runway, you need to put all those aids in place. Also, it is not under the purview of government to make space available; it has to do with the state,� Usman said. He said the federal government through the agencies have

been talking with the state government to make space available so that all the safety equipment required to make this airport functional are put in place and contacts have been made up to the highest level in aviation and in the state, which is the state government and the Minister of State Aviation. “It is not within the purview of aviation to determine when the equipment would be installed because it is completely under the control of the state to provide the state, so it will be very difficult for us in aviation to give you specific time. Unfortunately, we do not have much option on this; we have to work as a team. The state is also a major stakeholder in this and we will very much appreciate the cooperation of the state government to make this available because one of the complaints is unavailability Continued on page 20

TheSkywayAviationHandlingCompanyLimited(SAHCOL)hasconfirmed the appointment of Mr. Basil Agboarumi as the company’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. His appointment as substantive MD/CEO was announced in a letter to him having served in an Acting capacity for the past six months. Agboarumi holds a National Diploma (OND) in Mass Communication fromtheFederalPolytechnic,Auchi,aHigherNationalDiploma(HND)in Mass Communication from the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, a Masters in CommunicationsStudies(Mcs)fromtheLagosStateUniversity,anda CertificateinCreativeDesignandDigitalCommunicationfromtheSchool of Media and Communications of the Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos. He joined the Skypower Aviation Handling Company Limited, then a subsidiaryoftheNigeriaAirwaysLimited,asthePioneerStaff/Headof thePublicAffairsUnit. Aftertheprivatisationandsubsequenttakeover of Skypower Aviation Handling Company Limited by the SIFAX Group in 2009, he was appointed Head of Corporate Communications, with a mandate to spearhead the re-branding of the new Skyway Aviation Handling Company Limited. He was later elevated to the position of General Manager in 2013 in charge of the Corporate Communications & Information Technology (IT) Departments of SAHCOL, providing leadership for the day to day operations of the units until his recent appointment. Agboarumi is a member of the Institute of Directors (IoD Nigeria), a FellowoftheNigerianInstituteofPublicRelations(FNIPR),anAssociate Member of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (arpa), and an Aluminous of the Pan-Atlantic University. Agboarumiisanenthusiasticandpassionateprofessional,withmorethan 18years’experiencewithincreasedleadershipskillsandabilitiesinAviation GroundHandling&PublicRelations/Management;demonstratingastrong backgroundingovernment,corporationsandnonprofitorganizations.

AMCON Boss to Deliver Lecture

The Managing Director/Chief Executive OďŹƒcer, Asset Management CorporationofNigeria(AMCON),Mr.AhmedLawanKuruwillonTuesday October 9, 2018, address aviation stakeholders as guest speaker at the annual aviation colloquium to hold in Lagos. The forum is organised annually by NigeriaTravelsMart (NTM) to seek ways of improving professionalism in the aviation sector of the Nigerian economy. The theme for this year’s edition is “Corporate Governance and Airline Industry Development in Nigeria.â€? Kuru, who has been consistent in calling for the strengthening of good corporate governance across dierent institutions (both private and public) in the country was selected as guest speaker by the Board of NigeriaTravelsMartmagazinebecauseofhisoutstandingcommitment tothiscallovertheyears.TheAMCONboss,theorganisersadded,would use the opportunity provided by the forum to share the experiences of AMCON’s intervention in the transport and allied sectors, with particular interest in Aero and Arik airlines. Kuru would also be expected to ďŹ eld questions from participants, aviation practitioners and the media during the event. PublisherandChiefExecutiveOďŹƒcerofNigeriaTravelsMartmagazine and organisers of the annual colloquium Mr. Simon Tumba, “We are delightedtohavetheMDofAMCON,whoisastrongadvocateofgood corporategovernancedeliverthisyear’slecture.Asastrongcorporate player that practices what he preaches in his present organization and others he previously managed, I can tell you that industry players are already looking forward to having frank interactive session with Kuru because of his bluntness.â€?

‘Akwaaba’ Hosts Ghanaian Actor

The Chief Executive, GhanaTourism Authority, Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, is to lead a cast of top tourism products including popular Actor Van Vicker at this year’s Akwaaba African Travel market scheduled for September 9. VickerispopularinNigeriaashehadstarredinmanyNollywoodmovies. Included in the team are members of the Ghana Tourism Federation and members of the Ghana Chef Association, who will participate in the second edition of the Jollof Rice war with Nigeria and Gambia on September 9.

“Globally all airports have operational hours and there are only few airports in the world that are truly 24 hours� Director General, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA),

Captain Muhtar Usman

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BUSINESSWORLD NIGERIAN PORTS RECORD MIXED PERFORMANCE AS VESSEL TRAFFIC DECLINE 2.3% IN Q1 berth occupancy rate was 32.8 per cent as against 33.8 per cent on fourth quarter 2017. The Q1 2018 witnessed a significant growth in cargo traffic when compared with fourth quarter of 2017, however, there was a decrease of 2.3 per cent in the number of ships that call to the ports but the corresponding cargo traffic increased by 2.3 per cent due to increase in export cargoes especially LNG shipment and agricultural products. Meanwhile, stakeholders told THISDAY that the decline in the port performance may not be unconnected to the poor port access roads, security challenges and some government’s policies which are not considered friendly to boost vessels traffic. The NPA had in a bid to ensure efficiency at the port axed the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and others who were affected in the executive order from the ports across the country. The Managing Director of the NPA, Ms. Hadiza Bala-Usman gave the directive at a stakeholders’ meeting comprising the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), operators and major stakeholders in the port. She listed the NPA as the landlord, the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Police, Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and the Port Health Authority (PHA) as the only agencies approved to operate in the ports. ENUGU GOVT DELAYS INSTALLATION OF AIRPORT FACILITIES of water. “FAAN is willing to dam the Ekulu river to make the water available at the airport, so we are still appealing to the state to do whatever is necessary, maybe even the South East governors can help in asking the state to assist in making all these available for us to be able to deploy these facilities to ensure adequate and safe operations at the Enugu airport,� he said.

NEWS

NIMASA Embarks on Automation of Process to Ensure Efficiency Stories by Eromosele Abiodun The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside has described the automation of the agency’s processes as an initiative geared towards reducing human interface. He stated this during a stakeholders’ forum organised by the agency in Lagos, during the implementation of automated business processes, called SAGE ERP X3. The initiative, he stated, would bring about better efficiency and improvement in the turn-aroundtime of shipping agents, vessels calling at the nation’s ports and all forms of transactions in the sector. He added that the benefits that would be derived from the digitalisation process would yield enormous benefits not just for the Stakeholders, but for the country at large. According to him, “In line with the federal government’s Executive Order on Ease of Doing Business, we are committed to improving turnaround time of vessels, reduction of human interface in majority of our transactions with our stakeholders and this is in our bid to ensure transparency and professionalism that the sector demands to grow.� Represented by the Director in charge of Special Duties, External Relations and Technical Cooperation, Lami Tumaka, Peterside disclosed that through the agency’s Survey, Inspection and Certification Transformation programme, over 3,752 Certificates of Competency

(CoC) were issued in 2017 to successful seafarers which represented a 149 per cent increase over the same period in 2016. Speaking further, he observed that a total number of 1,880 certificates were authenticated for Stakeholders in 2017 which was an improvement on the 1013 which were cleared in 2016. The NIMASA boss also made it known that the number of Nigerian seafarers placed onboard vessels from

January to June of this year is 2,337, representing a 58.9 per cent increase in the number of employed seafarers. He said: “For us in NIMASA, we are happy that the confidence of stakeholders in the Agency has increased; more importantly, there has been an increase in employment and wealth creation which is in line with the Federal Government’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan, (ERGP). We will work more closely with you and keep relying

on the support we have got from you over time, because without the Stakeholders, there will be no NIMASA.� Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of African Shipowners Association, Mr. Temisan Omatseye, said the current management of NIMASA with the roll out of the SAGE ERP X3 automation platform continues to steer the maritime industry in the right direction. He also pledged the continuous support of stakeholders to

every initiative of the agency geared towards realising a robust maritime sector. As part of the strategy to improve the lot of the maritime industry, the management of NIMASA had set out on a fivepoint agenda namely; Survey, Inspection & Certification Transformation Programme, Environment, Security, Emergency Search & Rescue Transformation Initiative, Digital Strategy Reforms, Capacity Building & Promotional Initiatives and Structural & Cultural Reforms.

TOUCHING LIVES

L-R: Head, Corporate Communications, Airtel Nigeria, Erhumu Bayagbon; Director, Corporate Communications and CSR, Emeka Oparah and Head, Human Resource -Talent Management, Tonye Boham, at the Airtel ‘Touching Lives’ season four media viewing held in Lagos... recently Photo: Abiodun Ajala

FG to Institute WIP onVessels Calling at Nigerian Ports Furtherance to its plan to accelerate operational efficiency and navigational safety in the nation’s seaports, the federal government will soon institute Wreck Insurance Policy (WIP) on all vessels calling at the Nigerian Ports, Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala-Usman has said. The policy, according to the NPA boss, will provide avenue for the port management to evacuate abandoned vessels in the

nation’s territorial water. The NPA boss stated this while addressing stakeholders in the nation’s maritime sector at a one-day quarterly summit of the Ports Consultative Council (PCC). Also, she disclosed that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) recently granted approval for a Private Public Partnership (PPP) of N72 billion for the ports access road in Apapa and Tin can Island. Commenting on the issue of trucks and access to the nation’s seaports,

she said very soon only trucks that are housed in the proposed trailer parks would be allowed entry into the port locations adding that, “the NPA will deploy an electronic call-up system that allows access to the ports only when they are needed.� She said the Apapa Wharf Road reconstruction project has reached 85 per cent completion, while assuring stakeholders that the road would be fully completed in the next four to six weeks. Bala-Usman stressed that

the efficient utilisation of Inland Water Ways is key to resolving the decongestion of the Ports access road. She stated that a company, Connect-Rail, which is one of the private components engaged by the authority to provide barge evacuation is currently moving cargoes and several tons of containers between Ikorodu to the Terminals through the water. She said the management of NPA was desirous on how it can use the water ways farther even away from Ikorodu to other locations

to ease the congestion out of Apapa and Tin can Island axis. Speaking on the importance of the PCC meeting, the convener and Chairman of the Council, Kunle Folarin said that the meeting was strategic and an avenue to examine issues relating to the operations of the Port Industry especially as it concerns Port operators. Folarin said the Council always comes up with a blue print that would enhance efficient port operation and management.

SIFAX Explains Reason for Investing in Gambia Group Business Editor

Obinna Chima

AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

Jonathan Eze

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Capital Market Editor

Goddy Egene

Senior Correspondent

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

Ă’Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂŽĂ&#x; äĂ? (Aviation) 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) James Emejo (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)

The Group Executive Vice Chairman, SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi has explained the rationale behind SIFAX Group’s proposed investment in Gambia. He noted that the desire to contribute meaningfully to the rebuilding of the country’s economy was responsible for the inroad being made into the West African country. Afolabi made this known during the courtesy visit and facility inspection tour of Ports & Cargo Handling Services Limited, one of the subsidiaries of the company by the first female Mayor of Banjul, the capital of

Gambia, Mrs. Rohey Malick Lowe. Lowe’s visit is part of the build up to the SIFAX Group’s multi-million dollar investment in The Gambia. According to Afolabi, the country is just emerging into a new dawn and deserves all the support it could get. He said: “Gambia has a new leadership who is willing to open up the country for foreign investment, so the economy could be developed. I believe so much in the economic growth and development of the continent by Africans. Africans should be a major stakeholder in the economic

transformation of Africa. The new president has also promised an enabling environment that is conducive and inviting. “Aside, before we ventured into this, I personally embarked on a research to find out about the country. Of all the African countries we have visited to do business recently, The Gambia offers a unique business proposition that seeks to keep investors business running with good returns on investments. “We want to replicate the successes of our business models here in Gambia too. Our 30 years’ experience in

the maritime industry will be very useful in building the economy of Gambia. Our promise is that the country’s economy will feel our impact as we don’t intend to limit our interventions to the maritime sector alone. We have identified other key areas we will be willing to invest in the nearest future.� In her response, Lowe commended Ports & Cargo Handling Services for its giant strides in the Nigeria’s maritime sector. Lowe, who was impressed by the state-of-the-art facilities at the terminal, urged the company to bring same positive effect to her country.

“I must commend Ports & Cargo for a job well done. I am very impressed. So many critics back in Gambia are sceptical of SIFAX Group’s capacity to handle the job, but with what I have seen today, there is no doubt that the company can successfully transform our economy. I am going back to Gambia to propagate the gospel of SIFAX Group brand back home,� she said. Lowe thanked Afolabi, who conducted her round the terminal, and management team for the opportunity and said the tour has added to her wealth of knowledge.

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BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

FG Signs MoU with Benin Republic, Others on Air Accident Investigation Kasim Sumaina in Abuja The federal government has signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Republic of Benin, and some other African countries to assist them in air accident investigation The MoU was signed on behalf of government in Abuja, by the Commissioner, Accident investigation Bureau (AIB) Captain Akin Olateru, who disclosed that it was the first time Nigerian institution was signing a corporation agreement (MoU) with its foreign counterpart. Olateru, while speaking with journalists, shortly after the ceremony, noted: “What has just happened now is that, we just made history in the history of accident investigation in Nigeria.� He observed that the agreement was in four areas, “One

is in the area of cooperation to help the Republic of Benin and Nigeria to both fulfil the international obligations on both sides on air accident investigation. As regards the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Convention on accident and investigation, we are signing this MoU.� The AIB boss explained the details of the agreement. “Nigeria as a country will help Republic of Benin in terms of training and human capacity. Another area is the exchange of information. We are going to be exchanging information on accident investigation with republic of Benin. Nigeria as a country will go there, that’s the AIB to assist in investigation of such accidents on serious incidents.� The AIB boss further explained that beyond the

Republic of Benin, Nigeria would partner with Niger Republic, Sao Tome and other neighbouring nations. “There are about four countries currently reviewing. You know this goes through a process before we can sign, so they are currently reviewing all the agreement, the MoU right now as we speak. So, they’ll be able to sign within the next few months.� He added that, the country stands to gain a lot from the agreement, remarking that people should not think that there is nothing to gain from the partnering African nations. “But when you look at it, if there is an accident in the republic of Benin for instance, we deploy our resources to go there to assist. We have our investigators working with them on the investigation of occurrence and that will help our investigators as well.�

ACI APEX Team Inspects Lagos, Abuja Airports Chinedu Eze A six-man team from Airport Excellence (APEX), an arm of Airport Council International (ACI) has commenced security and safety inspections of facilities and equipment at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The exercise was a follow up to the certification of the airports last year by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in accordance to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations. The objective of the inspection was to identify possible security and safety gaps so that FAAN would close those gaps for improved airport facilitation. The team, which was led by Mr. Brahim Lakhlili, inspected the airside, apron, tarmac and the perimeter fences of the airports to know their level of compliance, open items and how they could be closed. The team is expected to

spend two weeks in Nigeria; one week to inspect each airport. Speaking with journalists at the Lagos Airport, the Director of Security Services, FAAN, Grp. Capt Usamn Sadiq (rtd) said it was not an audit exercise, but self-review to know the extent of compliance to international standards by the airport. Sadiq explained that the team was at the airport not for only correction, but about assistance where necessary to the airport and FAAN, stressing that the team would also look at the agency’s facilities manpower at various locations, perimeter fences and others that had to do with security and ways to improve on them. “The industry has a lot to gain from the exercise. In fact, we feel happy when we see such organisations in our country because they make us stand on our toes. They make us see areas where we lack facilities and how to improve such areas and you will agree with me, we are trying to be the best in Africa and eventually in the world.

“So, such constant visits, auditing of our concerns is a welcome development. They look at our airside, equipment, facilitation and a lot of things about security and safety in the system. “Security is very key to every development. Without security there is no development and without development, there is no security. That’s the fact and we know areas that we are lacking, and we know that we are striving to improve on those areas. The federal government is doing its best and FAAN too is doing its best to constantly improve on its facilities.� Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Victoria Shin-Aba, the Airport Manager, South West, said the management was prepared for the exercise. She stated that it wasn’t the first time the MMIA management would be working with APEX, recalling that it worked with the team in 2015 towards the certification of MMIA in 2017 by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

Air Peace Boosts Regional Operations with Night Flights Chinedu Eze One of Nigeria’s leading carrier, Air Peace, has boosted its regional operations with the introduction of night flights out of Lagos, Accra, Banjul and Dakar. A statement signed by Air Peace Corporate Communications Manager, Mr. Chris Iwarah, quoted the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide, who said the new flights were part of the airline’s strategy to make air travel on the West Coast of Africa seamless and more beneficial. Olajide described that night flights, which commenced from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos on Sunday, as a relief for business and leisure travellers on the West Coast looking to utilise

their trips to transact their business unrushed. “We keep reviewing our regional operations in line with our promise to provide seamless, on-time and comfortable flight services. Whatever the travel needs of our esteemed guests, we want to be able to provide a service that fits their plans. “We have been operating on the West Coast of Africa for more than a year and a half. One thing we have come to realise is that a lot of persons like to travel at night and get to their destinations on time to do their transactions in a calm, unhurried and fruitful manner. “This is the interest we are catering to with the introduction of night flights. We want our valued guests to arrive at their destinations, go about their business as they wish and still

have enough time to prepare for their return trips. “This is just the beginning of the new innovations and win-win travel options we are bringing to air travel on the West Coast of Africa. We value our guests and are always ready to make our flight schedules and timings as comfortable as possible for them�, she said. Speaking on the development, a passenger on the night flight from Dakar to Lagos, Nchang Damarisambem, said the option met her desire to arrive Lagos on time and continue her onward journey to Calabar for her transaction. The flight, she said, was a pleasant experience. She pleaded with Air Peace to extend its operations to Yaounde, Cameroun, her country to give the people an opportunity of experiencing its spectacular flight services.

AIR WATCH Improving Safety on Runway

Earlier this week, Governors of South-eastern states issued a statement describing the runway at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu as death trap. This, according to reports, followed the complaint of a pilot that operated a charter flight to that destination. In a quick reaction to the governors’ statement, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) dispatched its officials to inspect the runway. It was expected that defects detected on the runway would quickly be corrected to ensure that aircraft land and take off safely. Industry experts posit that one major area the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the Airport Council International (ACI) look at before granting certification for an airport is the safety of the runway. The experts noted that airport runway must meet international safety regulation before regional and inter-regional flights are allowed to take place from an airport. In Nigeria, airline operators said the major problem with many of the airport runways is the inability to regularly maintain them and to ensure they meet the expected safety standards. Such challenges stem from the fact that there may not be professionals with highly skilled manpower to manage these runways. An engineer in FAAN recently told THISDAY that one of the major challenges in air transport is the safety of the aircraft on landing and take-off, which experts define as the most critical aspects of flight operations. At landing, aircraft can overshoot or skid off the runway during the rains, so there are measures taken to ensure that at landing aircraft have grip on the runway. A recent incident when Dana Air flight landed and overshot the runway at the Port Harcourt International Airport is one example of what could happen on runways. The FAAN official said aircraft tyres could lose grip of the runway surface. According to the regulation on runway safety, there should be aircraft landing surface friction, which means that there is need to ensure that the runway has friction that can grip aircraft tyres at landing. To ensure that the runway provides surface grip for aircraft tyres, Surface Friction Tests are carried out on a runway or a helideck to verify the value of friction on its surface. This frictional value informs the ability of the aircraft or helicopter to safely land without exceeding the surface provided. There are not many companies that specialise in providing such service, but in recent times an aviation company Rovaty Aviation Nigeria Limited has taken to providing sur-

face friction test solutions and other aviation industry services. Rovaty Aviation Nigeria Limited is a service provider for bespoke aviation solutions, including providing runway safety. The company said it has garnered years of experience from its involvement in providing this special service which has made it a highly sought-after company for runway safety in the whole of West Africa. The company said it is currently the only Nigerian organisation that provides runway and helideck surface friction test service. Partnering with ASFT Industries of Sweden (for technical support) her services are multifaceted. Rovaty Aviation said it is equipped with compliant vehicle integrated friction test equipment for runways and also equipped with T2GO test equipment for helidecks, both types of equipment being International Civil Aviation Organisation and Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority Regulation (NCAA) compliant and manufactured by her partner ASFT Industries of Sweden. With this equipment, the company keeps building capacity to proffer more solutions in this safety critical aspect of aviation operation. Regularly runways are subjected to frequent assessment to ensure that their safety worthiness. The interval for runway surface friction assessments in accordance with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority advisory circular NCAA-AC-ARD014 is based on the number of landings at the runway per day. The annual test is recommended for 0 to 15 landings per day. The company explained that frictional values of new or repaired/maintained runway surface are required before commissioning or returning it to service. Helideck surface friction assessment is carried out annually, before commissioning of a new build or following painting or repairs. Regular or scheduled runway surface friction measurement/tests are critical as they provide the necessary data to maintain adequate frictional value to eliminate or reduce runway overshoot/excursion related incidents or accident and ultimately saves lives. Rovaty Aviation said it appreciated the opportunity to partner with airport/aerodrome operators in Nigeria and West Africa to improve the overall safety of aviation operation. Airport managers in the West Africa subregion patronise the company, which for now, is the only indigenous organisation that keeps the airport runways in Nigeria and West Africa in tandem with recommended safety standard.

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Weighing Cost of Perennial Flight Delays, Cancellations Chinedu Eze examines the effects of flight delays and cancellation on airlines’ operations In July this year a VIP movement held flights leaving from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport to other destinations for over 45 minutes. It also held flights airborne in the Abuja airspace for the same time, while flights that were to come from different airports in the country to the federal capital territory were advised to delay take off. According to the renowned economist and Chief Executive Officer of Financial Derivatives Company Limited, Bismarck Rewane, who decried the situation, so much fuel is burnt by airlines while waiting for VIP movement, especially at the Lagos and Abuja airports. He said the VIP delays affect aircraft on ground and the ones that are already airborne. He said that the total VIP delays by the President and the Vice President could be projected to two days in a year and when calculated, the cost of fuel burnt is huge.

Apprehension

Passengers were said to be apprehensive and angry when flights to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja hovered for about 45 minutes before landing, The delay was caused by the closure of the airport for VIP movement, as President Muhammadu Buhari who travelled to Bauchi on that day, returned to the Federal Capital Territory. There were many flights coming to Abuja airport and others on ground about to take-off were delayed. A passenger in one of the flights, Dana Air Flight 335 which took off by 5:26 pm from the domestic terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) for a 55 minutes flight to Abuja were directed to hover because the airport was closed. According to eye witness account, addressing passengers after he had earlier announced that the flight was due to land at 6:20 pm, the Pilot said that the air traffic control directed that he should take a part of the airspace and hover until directed to land. Before the flight approached Abuja airspace, the airport was already closed for five minutes. After hovering for about 27 minutes, control tower directed that the pilot should approach to land, but as the flight approached to land, another directive came and instructed the pilot to continue to hover because the airport was still closed. The flight was eventually directed to land and it finally touched down by 7:00 pm, 40 minutes later than it was supposed to land and almost two hours from the time of boarding the flight. THISDAY spoke to the Chief Operating Officer of Dana Air, Obi Mbanuzuo who said aircraft could exhaust its fuel while hovering for such a long time, saying this could lead to emergency and consequently accident, if the airline did not make proper plan. He noted that Dana Air always envisaged such unexpected flight disruptions and as a matter of company policy provides extra fuel beyond endurance fuel, which by regulatory standard an aircraft should have on any trip. Economic Implication On the economic implication of the delay, he said that the operating flight, MD 83 consumed 3000 litres of fuel hovering in the airspace for that period of time and every litre of aviation fuel is sold between N235 to N250 per litre, which is N750, 000. According to him, the aircraft consumes 4000 litres of fuel per hour of flight and this is doubled for endurance fuel in case of emergency with additional five per cent of the 4000 litres for contingency. “That flight after dropping the passengers in Abuja will airlift Port Harcourt passengers from Abuja. Now, that flight will be delayed for that period of time it hovered in the airspace. This delay will continue to build up and lead to total inefficiency in flight operations,� he explained. Also, the spokesman of one of the airlines told THISDAY his airline incurs cost of over N2 million per flight because beyond the fuel and other cost of operations, there could be delays not initially envisaged so the airlines prepare for the unexpected. “We lose as much N2.7 million per flight on fuel, overhead and even if the flight has to be diverted. There is impact of the delays on other flights. The delays usually have a spiral effect, which would force the flights to operate into the night and if the airport doesn’t have light you either cancel flight and refund the

passengers their fares or in some airports you have to pay for them to extend the airport lights, when the fault isn’t yours. “Imagine an aircraft from Lagos to Abuja has to hold for 30 minutes overhead Abuja due to VIP movement then that adds another N500, 000 to the fuel bill if the plane has to divert; then that is even costlier as now an unexpected landing charge plus even higher fuel bill combined with delays on the rest of the network and passenger’s frustration,� the spokesman said.

Frequent Delays

An official of another major domestic carrier told THISDAY that delays are frequent for so many reasons. One is VIP movement and when a flight is delayed by 20 minutes it affects all the flights that would subsequently be operated by that aircraft. “The most affected are the multiple flights in the morning when the airline has to dispatch many flights to other destinations from the Lagos airport. Too many passengers are processed with only one scanner. This causes delays and 20 minutes delay would have ripple effect.

“You know most of the airports are sunset airports, so airlines usually prioritise going to those airports, especially in the afternoon and evening flights because the other ones are 24 hours airports, so they can fly to them at any time. But sometimes passengers from those airports that operate for 24 hours will kick against your checking in passengers to the sunset airports. “In the cacophony there would be more delays. But I wish to note that these issues did not start today so it cannot be tied to anybody but we wish that they could improve the situation,� the airline official said.

Turn Back

He also noted that a flight could be dispatched to one of the sunset airports and while airborne, the pilot could get a call from the air traffic control that the airport has been closed. If the airport will open for the flight the airline would have to pay and this is charged per hour. “While you are in the air going to the airport you would be asked to go back. You have already burnt your fuel going to that destination; you will burn your fuel going back with the same passengers. And you will still have to refund the passengers 100 per cent. Sometimes they wait for you to land and you have to pay for that extra time,� the official also lamented.

High Number of Delays

We lose as much N2.7 million per ight on fuel, overhead and even if the ight has to be diverted. There is impact of the delays on other ights. The delays usually have a spiral effect, which would force the ights to operate into the night and if the airport doesn’t have light

Aviation security expert and CEO Centurion Securities, Group Caption John Ojikutu, noted recently that high numbers of flight delays and cancellations have over the years, become too incessant in the operations of the Nigeria domestic carriers and had remained unresolved. He said rather than find an efficient resolution to the real causes; the operators and regulator continue to shift the blames as they have always done among themselves on the real causes of the short lifespan of the domestic airlines. “At a meeting with some stakeholders in the second quarter of 2018, the NCAA released a report on the domestic airline flight operations performance for the first quarters of 2017. Specifically, data on the numbers of flight delays and cancellations showed that there were 6,799 delays and 314 cancellations out of 10,366 domestic flights in the first quarters 2017. “The meeting which was attended by representatives of 13 international airlines, eight domestic airline operators, FAAN and Bi-Courtney made 16 resolutions. What caught the attention of many from the resolution at the meeting and the press release was an unclear warning to the airline operators alone concerning the huge number of flight delays

and cancellations,� he said. Ojikutu noted that there are many factors that do and could contribute to flight delays and are generally beyond the controls of the airlines. Most of them are and can be attributed to other operators, services providers including the airport authority infrastructure especially the passenger facilitation services. These, he said include passenger access control; passenger and carry-on-baggage check-point screening; hold baggage screening and sorting; number of boarding gates and the boarding screening. “All these are not within the control of the airlines as they often delay passenger facilitation and flight departure time especially at single terminal airport, with a single passenger screening, check points and single boarding gate. “For instance, at Lagos airport where there are two domestic terminals MM2 and GAT, there is only one screening point and on boarding gate at the GAT where Air Peace and Arik with more flights operate from, whereas, the MM2 most times has about two passenger screening check points and about six boarding gates,� he said.

Concession

In a recent interview he granted THISDAY, the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Muhtar Usman said the solution to infrastructural challenge at the nation’s airports is concession. He noted that the federal government wants to concession the four major airports in the country and urged that industry stakeholders and political decision makers should give the plan support. “Nowadays, government goes into partnership in form of concession so that private hands can come and invest and bring the airport to the international standards where there will be seamless connectivity. And along with the concession that the government is planning because it has already embarked on it through the transaction adviser, other facilities such as availability of fuel, maintenance repair and overhaul and of course, a national carrier. “Concession of airports would make possible efficient and modern airport facilities and other supporting facilities for efficient coordination such as the MRO and availability of fuel at reasonable prices. The advantage is that this will create more jobs. You will have employment because when you expand the airport facilities, certainly you will need people to work. When you establish maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) centre, you will also need people to work and they will all be Nigerians,� Usman said.

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Why Some Nigerians Seek Passports from Other W’African Countries Some Nigerians now claim and secure passport of other nationalities in West Africa to ease their travel overseas and also to escape from the consequences of their malfeasance at home. Chinedu Eze writes on how the Nigerian Immigration Service is foiling their game Nigeria is seen as huge market for air travel not only because it is the most populous country in Africa, but it has citizens that are eager to travel overseas. According to industry analysts, millions of Nigerians have it at the back of their mind that one day they will travel out of the country and it is often said that to know that a Nigerian is doing well is when he has funded a trip overseas. But cases of deportation and comments from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) show that many of these Nigerians just want to travel without defined purpose. They just want to leave the country. THISDAY spoke to many senior officials of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) serving in Abuja and Abuja, especially those who work at the airport or had worked at the airport under the condition that their names would not be disclosed. They noted that the dream of average Nigerian is to travel out of the country and this has been heightened by economic hardship “because when the economy is bad people migrate. More people are migrating from Nigeria now because of bad economy. It happened to Ghana in the 1970s and 80s when they came to Nigeria to take up menial jobs.� “But today Ghanaians are not the ones migrating; Nigerians are the ones leaving their country because of hardship, coupled with the fact that at the best of the times they like to travel, so you could see the huge number of people leaving the country by air and by road. It is the same situation that is playing out in Venezuela; their economy is bad, worse than that of Nigeria, so South American communities are worried and looking for a solution,� one of the Immigration officials said.

Faking Passports

For years many Nigerians for different reasons have been obtaining the passports of other nationalities in West Africa for different reasons. According to Immigration officials, some of the Nigerians obtain these fake passports when they have committed crimes or they were deported and their passports seized or when they believe it would facilitate their being accepted in some countries, which the Nigerian passport might not allow them to access. THISDAY gathered from Immigration official at the Lagos airport that among the Nigerians that do this include those whose passports have been seized by NIS, Nigerians who are arranged by agents to travel overseas for cheap labour and prostitution and Nigerians who seek for asylum from some countries in Europe, the US and Canada. THISDAY learnt that according to the law, NIS seizes the passports of Nigerians deported to the country for a minimum of two years but could be seized indefinitely and such people are not allowed to travel again. In order for them to travel, they illegally obtain passports from countries such as Ghana, Senegal, Guinea, Mozambique and others, adding that most of the time these passports are “oluwole�, which means that they are fake and Immigration detect most of them at the airport. The Immigration official also told THISDAY that there is syndicate of agents who recruit young Nigerians and send them to various countries as maids, for prostitution or engagement in other cheap labour. He said with passports from other West African countries they are given easy access to Europe, Middle East, Asia, the US and Canada and the immigration of the countries of their destination subject them to less scrutiny compared to if they travel with Nigeria’s green passport. The official also explained to THISDAY that those seeking for asylum find it easy with the passport of other countries in West Africa than with Nigerian passport, “although with crisis in many parts of Nigeria and emasculation of freedom of some groups, Canada and other countries are now granting asylum to Nigerians who come from crisis ridden areas like Plateau, Borno, Zamfara, Benue, Taraba and members of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).�

Nigerian Passport

THISDAY spoke to another senior Immigration official in Lagos who confirmed the reports and said many countries in the world are stringent in processing travellers with Nigerian passports. “Those who are doing this believe that if

you are holding a Nigerian passport, it may be difficult for you to access some countries especially North African and Middle East countries. They have this belief that if you are holding a Senegalese or Mozambique passport, for instance, it may be easier for you to penetrate United Arab Emirates (UAE) than a Nigerian passport because they seem to have sympathy for them. The way you will be subjected to if you are holding a Nigerian passport would be different from the way you will be subjected to if you are holding Liberian or Nigerien passports. “Again, they believe that Nigerian passport attracts more attention than most of these other small countries,� he said.

Deportation

The Immigration official further explained that some deported Nigerians whose passports are seized on arrival by Immigration claim to have lost their passports and obtain police report and court affidavit to back their claim as they request for new passport, which they succeed in obtaining.

In order for them to travel, they illegally obtain passports from countries such as Ghana, Senegal, Guinea, Mozambique and others, adding that most of the time these passports are “oluwole�, which means they are fake

He said that to forestall that from happening again, Immigration record all lost passports and send the records to all the international airports, so when the traveller comes with his passport it is cross-checked before it is stamped for approval. “In most cases, some Nigerians apply for lost case (lost passport) and what are the requirements to be qualified as a lost case? Affidavit, police report, declaration of age, but since we realise that there is a lacunae in the system, we now release all the lost cases because once you said you lost your passports, we can trace the passport number and make it invalid.� According to the Immigration official, a Nigerian citizens may not be allowed to travel for these reasons, “Insufficient fund, invalid visa, invalid passport, no return ticket, doubtful mission; for example, if you said you were admitted to study overseas and you have no admission letter and if the traveller has no hotel reservation; then if the person has subsisting cases like deportation.�

Nigerian Immigration

When THISDAY contacted spokesman of Nigerian Immigration Service, Sunday James to throw more light on these issues, he said that he was attending Command Course in Sokoto so he would not comment on any public issue. But Immigration officials said they have closed the international airports against those who travel with fake passports from other African nations. According to the officials, because Nigerian passport cannot be faked due to the fact that it has biometrics, these illicit operators fake passports from other countries to gain their way out of the country. “Because we closed the airports for them, many of them resort to travelling overseas by land, hence the several numbers of Nigerians that get drowned in the Mediterranean Sea but our people are also working hard to close the porous borders to also stop them from leaving by land. “You will ask yourself why leave your beloved country to go and die in a desert? They are not deterred by the number of deaths that occur on that suicidal journey to Europe through North Africa,� the official told THISDAY. Immigration explained that when they discovered that those deported whose passports were seized and others who obtained passports from other countries were using them to travel overseas, “we try to stop them at the airport but if they escape and travel, we call the embassies of the countries they travelled to. “We also discover that some of those who use other countries’ passports go through agents who immediately they arrive their destination destroy the passports and force person to serve

them until she has offset the money they spent in taking her out of the country. They force them into prostitution and exploit them until they get all their money back. Some of them who are travelling don’t even have a dime on them. Many of the passports of those travellers are seized,� Immigration official who spoke to THISDAY said. An Immigration official who had served at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos for several years told THISDAY that in the past some Nigerians resorted to using Ghana passports and “we tried to stop it and they started using passports of other West African nations�

Visa Extension

He explained that in China when Nigerians want to extend their stay Chinese government would refuse but it grants extension to those with Ghana passports, adding, many countries are not comfortable with green passport.� He noted that some Nigerian businessmen in China obtain business visa but when it expires they would ask for extension. “In the past Chinese authorities used to grant them extension but recently they have stopped doing so but if you have Ghanaian passport they will grant you extension. This is one of the reasons why some Nigerians go for Ghana passport. “But I don’t understand why two weeks should not be enough for a businessman to manufacture his goods and ship them to Nigeria. I am convinced that if you make all the necessary arrangement before you leave Nigeria, you should be able to finish all the transactions in two weeks but some of these Nigerians want to stay longer than necessary to do other things,� the Immigration officer said. THISDAY also learnt that due to the influx of Nigerians to Saudi Arabia, Saudi authorities has written to the federal government, requesting that young people, especially girls should not be allowed to come to the Kingdom. The letter was said to have emphasised that girls should not be allowed to their country; unless there is good reasons for them to travel, backed by facts and approval from the Saudi embassy. “There are reports that many girls who depart Nigeria through both land and air find their way to Saudi Arabia where they are engaged as maids, but the Saudi Arabia government has made it clear that such people should not be allowed in the Kingdom,� the officials said. Immigration said that many Nigerian girls who ended up in Libya had Europe and other parts of the world in mind and some of them even ended up in Mali where they stay and hoped they would get the chance to go farther to their aspired destination, “but some of them end up in North Africa and many of them die.�

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BUSINESSWORLD

PERSPECTIVE

Nigeria Air, Aviation Unions and Matters Arising Emeka Gbulie

The over N200,000,000 logo of the yet to be inaugurated Nigeria Air was unveiled at the Farnborough International Air Show, in Faraway United Kingdom. The move was strategic, and the idea was to alert the international community of our plan to set up a national carrier this December and to also get investors as the federal government will only contribute five per cent, while sourcing investors to bear the remaining 95 per cent. Charity they say begins at home and while the idea of attracting both foreign and local investors is very commendable, considering our present economic situation; it’s very important for the federal government to look inwards and do a lot of image laundering for Nigeria’s aviation industry, since we have become a laughing stock in the comity of nations with the myriad of negative stories they hear and read on a daily basis. This, I must mention has done more harm than good to this industry and the airlines are the worst hit as they hardly get any deal sealed without an iota of discrimination lamented an airline chief. I will give two clear reasons why the federal government’s desire to get investors might suffer some setbacks and the urgent need to always jump and nip these issues in the bud when they arise. The reason why Virgin Atlantic pulled out of Nigeria is still very fresh. A government enters into a deal; another government comes and revokes it. The foreign partner or investor is disappointed, goes to his country and shares his experience with other investors and tomorrow you go back to beg for investors, and expect them to trust you? The concession agreement between MMA2 and the federal government is also a clear case that will definitely make it a bit difficult for Hadi Sirika’s team to woo investors. It is instructive to mention here that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) still collects 50 per cent of MMA2’s revenue till date, as the agreement that MMA2 has with the with federal government prohibits FAAN from managing the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) and collecting the revenue that MMA2 would have used to replicate the same top-notch facilities it has at MMA2 at GAT. The illegality of FAAN running the General Aviation Terminal has still not been condemned by the federal government whose team is junketing around the world with tax payers’ money searching for investors while still frustrating and stifling investors back home. Now the point is, no shrewd investor whether ‘’home based’’ or foreign will ever trust the Nigerian Government on Nigeria Air with all of these unaddressed issues back home. The international community is

Hadi-Sirika

watching how our ‘change’ government handles issues of ‘’mutual consent’’ with distrust and volte face. Some weeks back, there was an erroneous or better still ‘fake’ stories about two domestic airlines on social media, while the airlines refuted it in good time, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), refused to issue a statement to reassure the flying public being the main regulator. As a public affairs commentator, I know, and I trust many would agree with me, that a statement from the NCAA would have done a lot, not only to clear the air, but to abate the

de-marketing that would have done to the industry in general. The aviation unions have also contributed in no small measure to the de-marketing of Nigeria’s aviation industry. The federal government, Ministry of Aviation and the regulators must check the activities of these unions as they have become a serious threat to the industry, particularly the airlines, and this is because the regulators and stakeholders have continued to condone their illegality. Last year, the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE),

threatened to picket some airlines over alleged casualization of staff and anti labour activities, but the airlines decided to face them battle for battle by arranging the police to disperse them. Taking this bold step saved the airline from losing millions and their passengers, an unnecessary stress and delay, which would have been caused by their crude attempt to arm-twist the airlines into accepting what only exist in the minds of the unions. Not too long ago, the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association (ATSSSAN), issued an ultimatum to Bi-Courtney Aviation Services limited (BASL) operator of MMA2 to recall its staff that were allegedly dismissed for joining to the union or face ‘series of disruptions.’’ This is another senseless threat from a union in Nigeria’s aviation industry to disrupt the activities of MMA2 in the coming weeks without due consideration for the airlines or the monies that will be lost from this illegal plan? What will be the fate of the passengers who have bought the ticket of these airlines to meet important appointments, jobs or contracts? Will they suffer because ATSSSAN has refused to tow the path of reasoning? Have they asked if these staff were dismissed for inefficiency, ill health, redundancy or due for retirement? What will the union gain when they further de-market an industry that has suffered more than enough bad press both locally and internationally? Will this action not further frustrate the efforts of President Muhammed Buhari who has been exploring every opportunity to invite investors to Nigeria? In whose interest are these unions working? If this planned or better still illegal disruption of flight activities at MMA2 is allowed by the Minister, FAAN and the NCAA, then it will be safe to conclude that they are the prime sponsors of these touts called unions, whose members are predominantly present and past staff of FAAN, NCAA, and NAMA. It’s important for the Buhari led administration to investigate this unions now as these regulators seem to be using them to cover their ineptitude which is evident in the level of decadence at all the airports across the country. The so-called association should be advised that they will make a better impact if they work together to fight the cause of the airlines by issuing ultimatums or threatening marketers not to arbitrarily skyrocket their aviation fuel cost or to the NCAA to address the over 37 sundry charges that airlines pay including the VAT, which the FIRS still accumulates, even as FG made a lot of fuse about its removal to help airlines survive their harsh operating environment. -Gbulie, a public affairs analyst writes from Abuja

LSETF Opens Application Window for MSMEs In line with its mandate to provide access to financial and institutional support to micro, small and medium scale enterprises (MSMEs), the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), has announced the opening of its loan application process for small businesses and startups operating in the state. Applicants intending to secure funding of up to N500,000) can now apply for the loan at five per cent interest rate under the LSETF Loan Programme commencing Monday, September 3, 2018 to close on Sunday, September 30, 2018. “Interested applicants in the scheme can obtain application forms at the LSETF liaison offices across the 20 local government offices in Lagos State and can submit completed application forms at the same location or apply online via the LSETF website. “As part of the requirements for

application, interested applicants are expected to attach alongside their application forms, proof of residency registration with the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA), tax identification, training certificate (for Startups), passport photographs and details of guarantors. In addition, existing micro enterprises are expected to show proof of sales evidenced by sales records or bank statements for six months,� a statement from the agency stated. Speaking on the opening of the loan application, the Executive Secretary of the LSETF, Mr. Akintunde Oyebode, said the process is entirely free and open to all small business operators who are residents of Lagos State, irrespective of their tribe, gender, religion or political affiliation. “This loan application window is a follow up to our existing loan

programme where the Fund has disbursed almost N6 billion to approximately 7,000 beneficiaries. “The month-long application window is now possible following the process optimization we carried out as a result of the huge backlog we had to deal with having recorded an overwhelming response to the open and rolling application process we had running before. “Going forward, the LSETF applications will be accessible at periodic windows as we have it now. So, I call on qualified small businesses to apply as soon as possible before the close of the application window,� Oyebode said. “I am very proud that the process for obtaining these loans has been transparent, merit-based, free and fair. This is a testament to the integrity of the LSETF team, who have demonstrated exemplary adherence to

our core values and their unwavering commitment to help small businesses expand and create jobs. “To this end, I am pleased to note that the existing beneficiaries have been able to put more than 24,000 people to work within the last two years,� he added. In addition to accessing the loans, LSETF also provided beneficiaries with professional business trainings, helped in promoting their businesses through public procurement opportunities, fairs, exhibitions and awareness programmes. “LSETF will also work to help create an enabling environment for small businesses operating in the state by working with relevant government ministries, department and agencies to address any issue, procedure or policy that hampers the smooth operations of their businesses in the state.

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Ensuring Fisheries Protection, Marine Safety Eromosele Abiodun tasks the federal government to implement the outcome of a regional conference that seeks to promote mechanical response to oil spill and protect fisheries and other aquatic species in the marine environment On 28 October 2016 in Hobart, Australia, the Convention for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources agreed to establish the first Antarctic and largest Marine Park in the world encompassing 1.55 million km2 (600,000 sq mi) in the Ross Sea. Other large Marine Protection Areas (MPAs) are in the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic Oceans in certain exclusive economic zones of Australia and overseas territories of France, the United Kingdom and the United States, with major (990,000 square kilometres (380,000 sq mi) or larger) new or expanded MPAs by these nations since 2012—such as Natural Park of the Coral Sea, Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument, Coral Sea Commonwealth Marine Reserve and South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Marine Protected Area. When counted with MPAs of all sizes from many other countries, as of August 2016 there are more than 13,650 MPAs, encompassing 2.07 per cent of the world’s oceans, with half of that area – encompassing 1.03 per cent of the world’s oceans –receiving complete “no-take� designation. Marine protected areas are protected areas of seas, oceans, estuaries or large lakes. MPAs restrict human activity for a conservation purpose, typically to protect natural or cultural resources. Such marine resources are protected by local, state, territorial, native, regional, national, or international authorities and differ substantially among and between nations. This variation includes different limitations on development, fishing practices, fishing seasons and catch limits, moorings and bans on removing or disrupting marine life. In some situations (such as with the Phoenix Islands Protected Area), MPAs also provide revenue for countries, potentially equal to the income that they would have if they were to grant companies permissions to fish. In Nigeria, the absence of MPA and regular oil spill has almost destroyed the means of livelihood of many in the Niger Delta. To reverse the trend, stakeholders recently organised a regional conference on marine safety and fisheries protection to put the matter on the front burner and provide solutions. The conference was put together with the support of the Norwegian government and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).

Protecting the Environment

Speaking at the conference, the Norwegian government and the UNITAR called on the federal government to enhance national contingency plans and invest in relevant equipment to ensure effective oil spill prevention and protect the environment to future generations. The Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Jens-Petter Kjemprud pointed out the past oil spills in Nigeria were preventable. He stated that while Norway has been involved in oil exploration for decades, the worst oil spill in its history was the Ekofisk Bravo spill in 1077, which he stated was the first serious uncontrolled oil blowout offshore. “It exposed serious deficiencies in the country’s defence against such pollution and the expertise of an American specialist had to be called upon to control the well. In this part of the world along the coast from South Africa to Nigeria, a handful of incidents have happened at sea over the years, most of them because of accidents with oil tankers outside South Africa, one of the busiest ship routs in the world. Accidents like the Bonga accident of 2011 have also happened at offshore installations in Nigeria,� he stated. Kjemprud added that Nigeria is blessed with rich marine resources and the country must continue to find ways through which activities regarding oil exploration would not hamper its biodiversity. He charged participants to use the opportunity provided by the conference to deliberate on how to strengthen regional cooperation when major accidents occur. On his part, Country Head and Resident Representative/UNITAR Nigeria Office, Lawrence Boms said there are great benefits for the entire region if the abundant economic opportunities existing in the area spreading across the Gulf of Guinea to the Cape in South Africa are tapped sustainably. Boms, who is also the Area Security Coordinator, United Nations System in Nigeria said the region’s riches in oil and other marine resource and the viability of the marine for shipping present so much economic possibilities. “According to statistics, the region accounts for 3000 ships passing annually with an estimated 140 million tons of oil. The combination of oil, marine resources and shipping can help propel economic prosperity in ways that it would be of benefits to businesses, government and the people,� he added.

Peterside

Oil Sill Danger

Speaking on the danger of oil spill, the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dakuku Peterside stated that every economic activity has environmental consequence. “Environmental destruction has a very long term effect. Crude oil is Nigeria’s economic mainstay; its exploration has a major effect on the environment whether onshore or offshore. As we push to grow our economy by exploring for oil we destroy the environment and the very factors that sustain life,� he said. Peterside stressed the need for concerted and collaborative efforts of all stakeholders towards

the conservation and sustainable use of ocean resources for the protection of the environment and indeed the entire ecosystem. The DG said that the activities of oil exploration and resultant oil spills whether onshore or offshore can continuously hamper the ecosystem. Peterside also noted that Nigeria is blessed with abundant aquatic resources including rare species of fishes but lamented that while the sea is being exploited for various economic purposes, not much attention is paid to the sustainability of the environment. In his words: “While tapping into the resources of our marine environment for economic advancement, care must be taken to ensure the perseveration of the environment or else wealth becomes useless if our environment is damaged.� Peterside equally frowned at the indiscriminate use of dispersants to clean up oils spill adding that NIMASA as the Government regulatory Agency in conjunction with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), has a list of approved dispersants. Specifically, he said: “Before the usage of dispersants, we must consider the chemical composition and the attendant effect of its breakdown to the marine environment and of course the ecosystem.� Other speakers at the event were the Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Oluwatoyin Suarau represented by Mr. Emmanuel Audu, Executive Director of the Nigerian Institute of Oceanography and Marine Research Dr. Gbola Akande amongst other notable maritime stakeholders. The conference is borne out of the need to promote mechanical response to oil spill and protect fisheries and other aquatic species in the marine environment for the benefit of the west and central Africa sub-region.

Environmental Consequences

Environmental destruction has a very long-term effect. Crude oil is Nigeria’s economic mainstay; its exploration has a major effect on the environment whether onshore or offshore. As we push to grow our economy by exploring for oil we destroy the environment and the very factors that sustain life

In his paper titled: “Environmental Consequences of Oil Spills on Marine Habitats and the Mitigating Measures – the Niger Delta Perspective,� Mr Etiese Etuk Akpan of Clean Nigeria Associates Limited said oil spills in the marine environment could have wide spread impact and long-term consequences on wildlife, fisheries, coastal and marine habitats, human health and livelihood, as well as recreational resources of coastal communities and the ancestral heritage. “Oil spill effects on fish, sea birds and other marine life are mostly due to the smothering and physical contamination or due to the toxicity of the chemical components of the oil. The fisheries and mariculture sector are impacted by the physical oiling of equipment and contamination of seafood leading to tainting and the effects on commercial and subsistence fisheries lead to substantial losses,� he said. He added that the repercussions of contaminated seafood on public perception is very serious and requires restoration of market confidence and public health assurances. He added: “The impact of oil spills on coastal and marine environments can be both short and long term. The degree of the damage caused by an oil spill event depends primarily upon the quantity of oil spilt, the chemistry and properties (type) of the oil and the sensitivity of the biological resources impacted.�

Akpan stated that oil spillage is a major environmental challenge in Nigeria especially in the Niger Delta region which harbours the operations of the most major oil companies in Nigeria. According to him, “The Government of Nigeria is statutorily obliged by section 20 of the constitution to protect the environment from oil spill. Section 20 of the Constitution provides that “The State SHALL protect and improve the environment and safeguard the water, air, and land, forest and wild life of Nigeria,� “Unavoidably, between 1970 and 2016 Nigeria recorded thousands of oil spill incidents, which resulted in loss of millions of barrels of oil to the environment which led to devastating environmental degradations; precipitate extensive and damaging environmental pollution which progressively destroyed farmlands and marine habitats. Available records for the period 1976 to 1996 indicated that approximately 6 per cent, 25 per cent, and 69 per cent of total oil spilled in the Niger Delta area, were in land, swamp and offshore environments respectively.� He added, “Some major spills in the coastal zone are the GOCON’s Escravos spill in 1978 of about 300,000 barrels, SPDC’s Forcados Terminal tank failure in 1978 of about 580,000 barrels and Texaco Funiwa-5 blow out in 1980 of about 400,000 barrels. Other oil spill incidents are those of the Abudu pipe line in 1982 of about 18,818 barrels. The most publicized of all oil spills in Nigeria occurred on January 17 1980 when a total of 218,935 barrels of crude oil got spilled into the environment; this spill occurred as a result of a blow out at Funiwa 5 offshore station (which led to the establishment of Clean Nigeria Associates in 1981). Others are the Jesse Fire Incident which claimed about a thousand lives and the Idoho Oil Spill of January 1998, of about 40,000 barrels.�

Recovery/Mitigation

Akpan stressed that the negative effects of oil spill may eventually fade away, but in many cases the long term effects remain several years after, sometimes even decades, before an area or ecosystem will fully recovered from a spill that caused extensive damages. He added that the seriousness of oil spill impact is mostly a function of the speed of recovery of the damaged habitats and species. Recovery, he added, depends upon both the removal of oil which is toxic from the environment and restoring the ecosystem, by replanting, introduction of cultured species threatened by extinction. He said: “The key parameter for evaluating recovery success, is the reproductive success of the survivors, the influx of larvae, eggs, juveniles or adults present in the oil impacted area. The seriousness of impact and the speed of recovery of the affected habitats and species following an oil spill will to a large extent be determined by factors such as the oil type, oil thickness onshore, type of ecosystem, local geography, climate/season, the vulnerability and sensitivity of the species, biological and physical characteristics of the area and the type of clean up response strategy adopted. “Generally, recovery will proceed faster in warmer climates and on rocky shores compared to cold climates for example, marshes. The long-term effects on deeper bottoms (i.e., if oil sinks and is absorbed in bottom sediments) is also a matter of concern.�

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Bala Usman: Nigeria’s Ports Positioned to Be Africa’s Hub The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala-Usman in this interview said the NPA is hosting the International Association of Ports and Harbours World Port Conference because it will provide the opportunity to market the port industry in Nigeria. is an issue we are grappling with and at the moment we command the largest economy in Africa. The conference is also going to attract major investors in the maritime industry from all over the world and with the attendance of our major partners, terminal operators and JV companies, the potentials of the port industry in Nigeria will be marketed. This will in turn engender an increase in foreign direct investment (FDI) and improve the patronage of our ports.

What is the international Association of Ports and Harbours ((IAPH))? The IAPH was formed in 1955 and over the last 60 years it has grown into a global alliance representing 180 members ports and 140 port related businesses in 90 countries. The IAPH was established to promote interest of ports worldwide, build strong member relationship and share international best practices How did Nigeria achieve hosting right for the conference? Nigeria was awarded the hosting right because of my election last year as Vice President representing Africa on the IAPH Governing Board. This is a testament of the recognition of Nigeria’s effort in building a virile maritime industry locally and cooperating with other nations to do same Nigeria, being a frontline maritime nation has been at the forefront of promoting collaboration between ports all over the continent of Africa. The country plays host to the headquarters of Port Management of West and Central Africa (PMWACA) and have over the years hosted technical committee meetings of the association and the women network of same association. Also, by the volume of trade of the nation being handled by six major port locations and the on-coming development of two major deep-sea ports, Nigeria has done well in building port infrastructure that has positioned it to be the hub for west

Bala-Usman

and central Africa. Of what beneďŹ t is it to Nigeria to host an international conference of this magnitude?

The conference is bringing together ports from all over Africa and other international organisations to look at the challenge of hinterland connectivity in the continent. This will be of immense interest to Nigeria, as it

It is an international event, where do we expect to see participants come from We are going to see participants from key organisations like World Trade Organisation, International Maritime Organisation, UNCTAD, Various African trade corridors including the Lagos Abidjan Trade corridor and the Walvis Bay corridor group. We also have international ports like the Antwerp Port Authority, Guangzhou Port Authority, Port of Miami Florida and African Ports such as Transnet National Port Authority (South Africa ), Kenya port Authority, Douala Port Authority Cameroon , Cotonou Port Authority Benin and Abidjan Port Authority Coted’ Ivoire. Others are Dakar Port Authority Senegal,Tanger Med Port Morocco and, Damietta Port Egypt. To say the least, we have ports coming from all over Africa. It promises to be an event that will lift the face of maritime trade in Africa and specifically expose the potentials of the Nigerian maritime industry to investors.

10 Years After Lehman: Lessons Learnt, Challenges Ahead Christine Lagarde

The global financial crisis remains one of the defining events of our time. It will forever mark the generation that lived through it. The fallout from the crisis—the heavy economic costs borne by ordinary people combined with the anger at seeing banks bailed out and bankers enjoying impunity, at a time when real wages continued to stagnate—is among the key factors in explaining the backlash against globalization, particularly in advanced economies, and the erosion of trust in government and other institutions. In this sense, the crisis cast a long shadow, which shows no sign of going away any time soon. Yet the tenth anniversary of the collapse of Lehman Brothers—what I once referred to as a “holy cow� moment—gives us an opportunity to evaluate the response to the crisis over the past decade. The collapse of Lehman Brothers provoked a broader run on the financial system, leading to systemic crisis. All told, twenty-four countries fell victim to banking crises, and economic activity has still not returned to trend in most of them. One study suggests that the average American will lose $70,000 in lifetime income because of the crisis. Governments continue to feel the pinch too. Public debt in advanced economies rose by more than 30 percentage points of GDP—partly due to economic weakness, partly due to efforts to stimulate the economy, and partly due to bailing out failing banks. Looking back today, the pressure points seem obvious. But they were less obvious at the time. Most economists failed to predict what was coming. It is a sobering lesson in groupthink. What were these pressure points? At the core was financial innovation that vastly outpaced regulation and supervision. Financial institutions—particularly in the United States and Europe—went on a frenzy of reckless risk-taking. This included relying less on traditional deposits and more on short-term funding, dramatically lowering lending standards, pushing loans off balance sheets through murky securitizations, and more generally, shifting activity to the hidden corners of the financial sector that were subject to less regulatory oversight. For example, the market share of subprime mortgages in the United States reached 40 percent of overall mortgage-backed securities by 2006—up from almost nothing in the early 1990s. In turn, the increased globalization of banking and financial services caused the crisis to cascade rapidly and dangerously. European banks were major buyers of American mortgage-backed

Lagarde

securities. At the same time, the introduction of the euro led to large capital flows to the periphery as borrowing costs fell. These flows were financed by banks in the core—another channel of financial contagion. Globalization also contributed to the problem through regulatory arbitrage—financial institutions were able to demand lighter oversight based on their ability to decamp to more favorable jurisdictions. If the policy response to these pre-crisis risks was inadequate, I would say that the immediate policy response to the crisis was impressive. The governments of the major economies represented by the G20 coordinated policies on a global scale. Countries with banking problems limited the drag of flailing financial sectors on the real economy—through measures such as capital support, debt guarantees, and asset purchases. Central banks slashed policy rates and later sailed deep into unknown seas with unconventional monetary policy. Governments propped up demand with large fiscal stimuluses. The IMF played its part too. We mobilized member countries to expand our financial resources dramatically—and as a result, were able to commit nearly $500 billion to countries hit by crisis. We also pumped an unprecedented $250 billion of global liquidity into the system. We modernized our lending frameworks, to allow a faster and more flexible response to

country needs—including by moving to zero interest rates on loans to low-income countries. And we engaged in a serious rethink of macroeconomics, to get a better handle on what we all had missed, including the complex linkages between the financial sector and the real economy. Together, these policies—in the context of collective international action—largely worked in the sense that a worst-case scenario was averted. This was not a sure thing—in the immediate aftermath of Lehman, we were really staring into the abyss. Holy cow, indeed‌ Policy also addressed the mistakes that led to the crisis. Banks have much healthier capital and liquidity positions. Off-balance sheet entities have been curtailed and brought under the regulatory umbrella. Big banks face tighter regulation, and leverage is lower. Subprime mortgage origination is largely gone. A big chunk of over-the-counter derivatives has been shifted to central clearing. This is all good, but still not good enough. Too many banks, especially in Europe, remain weak. Bank capital should probably go up further. “Too-big-to-failâ€? remains a problem as banks grow in size and complexity. There has still not been enough progress on how to resolve failing banks, especially across borders. A lot of the murkier activities are moving toward

the shadow banking sector. On top of this, continued financial innovation—including from high frequency trading and fintech—adds to financial stability challenges. In addition, and perhaps most worryingly of all, policymakers are facing substantial pressure from industry to roll back post-crisis regulations. There is one other important area that has not changed much—the area of culture, values, and ethics. As I have noted before , the financial sector still puts profit now over long-range prudence, short-termism over sustainability. Just think of the many financial scandals since Lehman. Ethics is not only important for its own sake, but because ethical lapses have clear economic consequences. Good regulation and supervision can do a lot, but they cannot do everything. They must be complemented by reform within financial institutions. In this context, a key ingredient of reform would be more female leadership in finance. I say this for two reasons. First, greater diversity always sharpens thinking, reducing the potential for groupthink. Second, this diversity also leads to more prudence, with less of the reckless decision-making that provoked the crisis. Our own research bears this out—a higher share of women on the boards of banks and financial supervision agencies is associated with greater stability. As I have said many times, if it had been Lehman Sisters rather than Lehman Brothers, the world might well look a lot different today. So where do we stand on the tenth anniversary of the collapse of Lehman? The bottom line is this: We have come a long way, but not far enough. The system is safer, but not safe enough. Growth has rebounded but is not shared enough. Complicating matters, the political economy landscape has shifted, with a fading commitment to international cooperation—ironically, the very kind of cooperation that prevented the crisis from becoming another Great Depression. Think of the role played by the G20, the FSB, the IMF, and others who worked so well together over the past decade. Indeed, the importance of international cooperation in meeting 21st century challenges is one of the enduring lessons of the crisis. We are now facing new, post-crisis, fault lines—from the potential rollback of financial regulation, to the fallout from excessive inequality, to protectionism and inwardlooking policies, to rising global imbalances. How we respond to these challenges will determine whether we have fully internalized the lessons from Lehman. In this sense, the true legacy of the crisis cannot be adequately assessed after ten years—because it is still being written.

THIS WEEKEND WEEKLY MAGAZINE

NEWS METRO THISLIFE ART WEEKEND ENTERTAINMENT Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi chiemelie.ezeobi@ chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com @thisdaylive.com 0701051030

AMVCA 2018

Celebrating African Talents

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COVER

Some of the winners

AMVCA 2018

Celebrating African Talents Aside from creating an avenue to appreciate Africa’s outstanding talents in the movie industry, the glitz and glamour were second to none at the recently held sixth edition of African Magic Viewers’ Choice Award. Mary Nnah reports

T

he African Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA) has come and gone but the euphoria will linger for a long time to come. Popularly referred to as the African Oscars, the event which took place at the Expo Hall of the Eko Hotel and Suits, Victoria Island, Lagos, was broadcast live on all Africa Magic channels on DStv and Gotv. The night kicked off with the red carpet about 4pm. Stars stepped out in their various impressive and astonishing attires made by African best designers. After the glitz on the red carpet, it was time for the award proper. In his usual dazzling and hilarious manner, the host of the night, Nigerian on-air-personality, IK Osakioduwa, stepped out on the stage, decked in a well-tailored and very attractive outfit. He was accompanied by his co-host, South African media personality, Minnie Dlamini-Jones, with whom he thrilled guests and viewers. This is their second year running as hosts of the AMVCAs. Glitz and Glamour To celebrate outstanding achievements in the African film and television industry, celebrities and most people who turned up at the event looked magnificent. With the men looking dapper, to the ladies in their ball gowns, high slit dresses, the dramatic and demure, most of them stood out. What really stood out were some of the ball gowns won by the ladies. Meanwhile, particular attention was given to Ex-Big brother Naija housemate; Bambam, who appeared in an all-feathers ball dress, which attracted mixed reactions from social media. Interestingly, a handful of the celebrities whose attires were flamboyantly made with various ornaments to make them appear extraordinary actually came with helps who held on to the tails of their dresses as they walked around. This was to avoid the dresses sweeping the floor, as well as to prevent other guests from stepping on them. There were also other sensational

dresses worn by celebrities, especially the ladies, which amazed the guests. In all, it was indeed an occasion where celebrities let their hair down for the night. However while many got praises for the attires they wore, many others got knocks. The Show First, IK took time to explain the aim of the AMVCAs to an audience that was already awaiting the outcome of night in great anticipation. According to him, AMVCA is an annual event by Multichoice and Africa Magic, which recognises and honours film and television talents across the African continent. Winners often emerge through votes by members of the public. Tagged, Africa’s premiere television and film industry event of the year, the AMVCA, which debuted in 2013, is the biggest celebration of film and television talent across Africa. Now, in its sixth edition, the show has grown even bigger with top contenders from across the continent vying for honors in the voting and non-voting categories. With that brief introduction, the ball was set rolling with the opening performance of the night. It was a dazzling display of a cultural dance from the South-South part of Nigerian. Members of the dance group in their beautifully crafted traditional costumes truly set the tone for the evening’s event, as after that, the very first winner of the night was announced! Although the Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Abode, was not physically present at the event, a recorded welcome speech was presented on the screen during the event. Surprisingly, Nigerian Senator representing Kogi West, Dino Melaye made an appearance at the event along with the Senator representing Abia South Senatorial district, Enyinnaya Abaribe, among other politicians. Trust IK, he did not spare Melaye as he jocularly gave him an award for his “11 hours in the wilderness�. IK was obviously making reference to Melaye’s kidnap saga, where he was reportedly kidnapped by unknown gunmen on his way to answer

a case in court. The Kogi state senator was said to have been heading to Lokoja from Abuja, when the incident happened, during which he claimed he “spent 11 hours in the wilderness traumatised.� Another classic moment was when IK suddenly decided to sing to a beautiful lady in the audience on bended knees. The woman’s husband who sat closely to her instinctively got all protective of his wife by wrapping his hands around her shoulders while IK continued with his “love song�. The Winners Nollywood movie ‘Tatu’ set the pace as one of the night’s biggest winners. The movie grasped a total of four awards in the Best Sound Editor, Best Lighting Designer Movie/TV Series, Best Make-Up Artist Movie/TV Series, and Best Soundtrack Movies/TV Series categories. The Industry Merit Award went to Nollywood giant Tunde Kelani. The iconic filmmaker was not around to collect his award but another legend, Segun Odegbami received the award on his behalf. Screen diva Omotola Ekeinde won best actress AMVCA 2018 in a drama series, in the flick “Alter Ego�, her very first AMVCA while Adekola Odunlade, who won AMVCA 2018 best actor in the comedy ‘A Million Baby’, could not control his outburst. “What I say to this is, when it is your time to shine, or for people to see what you’ve been doing for long, and appreciate you, nobody can block you. Thank you Almighty God, I appreciate all my fans all over the world�, he said. And to show his appreciation, Odunlade prostrated right there on the stage for his numerous fans. Other winners of the night included Ghanaian actor Adjetey Anang won the Best Actorcategory and Kenyan actress Nyce Wanjeriwon the Best Actress in a Comedy and TV series for her role in ‘Auntie Boss’. Nigerian actress cum singer and former Big Brother Naija (BBN) Housemate, Bisola Aiyeola got the Trailblazer Award, which came with a brand new car. Bisola had arrived at the event in a stunning blue dress but eventually, she changed into an eye-

catching red gown as she went on stage to rendered, “My Immortal� by Evanescence, a heartfelt tribute song for Nollywood practitioners who had passed on over the years. And this got her a round of applause. And to cap it all, she went home with a car as the winner for the Trailblazer award of the AMVCA 2018 in recognition of her growing impact in the African film and TV space. Bisola was shocked when her name was called as the winner of the Trailblazer award and then she screamed hysterically on the stage as she was handed prototype of the car key she won. “I did not know I was going to win this but I am supper grateful. Thank you Multichoice, I thought I was going to be nominated next year or in two years to come. Thank you, Bisola said as she fought for breath with a look of shock on her face. Also, Jade Osiberuwon the Best Director category for ‘Isoken’. During an interlude, Falz, Adekunle Gold and Bisola all gave lovely performances but the nonconformist singer, Cobhams Asuquo got a standing ovation for remixing his single ‘One Hit’. Cobhams performance was hilarious with remixed lyrics like “Lord, give me hit role like Odunlade�. The singer and composer got himself a standing ovation for his performance when he sang his song mentioning names of Nigerian movie stars that he probably admires. Charles Inojie re-enacted his viral ‘Na dem dey rush us’ skit on stage for the night in less than 10 seconds. Folarin Falana, popularly called Falz went home with the award for Best Supporting Actor in a Movie/TV Series category, his second AMVCA in two years. The crowning of the night was the announcement of Phoebe Ruguru’s ’18 Hours’ as the Best Overall movie. The Kenyan movie was produced by Phoebe Ruguru, and directed by Njue Kevin both from Kenyan. With more than 120 nominations for 27 categories, filmmakers and actors from different African countries including Kenya, Malawi, South Africa, Ghana, and Nigeria attended the event and it featured heavyweights in the movie industry on the continent.

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NEWS

ÙÎĂ&#x;ĂšĂ? äÙĂ&#x;Ă–Ă‹ Ă‹ĂœĂžĂ˜Ă?ĂœĂ? ĂŽĂ™ Ă™Ă˜Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ă’Ă? ÞÙ Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă’ Ă™Ă&#x;Ăž ÞÙ Ă?Ă?Ă?Ě‹ĂšĂœĂ“Ă Ă“Ă–Ă?Ă‘Ă?ĂŽ

Cast for ‘Lara and the Beat’ with producer Biola Alabi (middle) during the movie premiere recently

‘Lara and the Beat’ World Premiere Celebrates Best of Nollywood, Afrobeat Mary Nnah It was a celebration of film, music and fashion, and the Creme de la Creme of the film and music industry, when Biola Alabi Media’s world premiere of its 2018 hit production ‘Lara and the Beat’, held recently in Lagos. The lavish event was a resounding evening of fabulous fashion presentation and a mesmerising music concert, taking cues from key themes explored in the movie – music, fashion and culture. With less than two weeks to the movie’s cinematic release nationwide on July 20, the cast and other members of the production team took to the carpet to hint about the excitement that ‘Lara and the Beat’ promises. “We had a lot of fun on set making this movie, and I am particularly excited about the cultural elements that stand out in this movie,� said Seyi Shay, who plays LaraGiwa in the movie. “Music is a big part of this movie, and to see how it was perfectly fused with this production, makes me really proud as a music artiste.� “We are now starting to see a brilliant collaboration between Nollywood and the music industry,� said Tosin Coker, Director of Lara and the Beat. “This is very special for me because I started my career as a music video director, and to see this happening now and to be a part of it, is something I am

really proud of.� Like the director of the movie, Seyi Shay who plays the role of the lead protagonist, and Vector who plays her love interest, Sal, also have a music background, both being major music stars. Other cast members from the music industry include DJ Xclusive (who plays Jide), and Toni Tones (who plays Trish). “It’s great to see how this blend of movie and music has played out tonight, all the brilliance shown not only by the music cast members, but especially by the traditional Nollywood cast members as well, who really made this a pleasant experience,� said Vector. Lara and the Beat also has an original music soundtrack produced by ace music producer Tee Y Mix, with significant input from the team at Universal Music Group in Nigeria. Tee Y Mix who has worked with some of the music artistes in this movie before, said “Regular studio recording is not quite the same as when you’re making an original music soundtrack for a movie, but it’s not any less fun. I’m really proud of what we’ve created.� “What drew us to this production was the vision they had to fuse music with movie, and this is something our mother brand has done in other parts, and we were glad to be able to do the same in Nigeria,� said Eze Ezegozie of Universal Music Group (UMG) Nigeria. Lara and the Beat produced by Tolu Olusoga stars award win-

ning Nollywood heavyweights Somkele, Chioma Akpotha, Chinedu Ikedieze, Uche Jombo, Lala Akindoju, Bimbo Manuel, Wale Ojo, Shaffy Bello, and Saidi Balogun. Other cast members include Deyemi Okanlawon, Demola Adedoyin, Folu Storms, Sharon Ooja, Anne Icha, Akan Nnani, Dara Egerton Shyngle, Bollylomo, David Jones David, Cookies, Keira Hewatch, Patrick Oke and Demi Banwo. With such an elaborate cast list, diversity of themes explored and an impeccable creative production team, Lara and the Beat has all the characteristics of a reveling movie experience. According to Alabi, executive producer of Lara and the Beat, “what you have witnessed here tonight is the outcome of many months of hardwork and creative collaborations with talented professionals in the industry. “ Biola Alabi Media is committed to telling our rich African stories, and sharing it with the rest of the world. I am proud of what we’ve created with Lara and the Beat, and with the reception we’ve seen here today, I am certain everyone will enjoy it.� Alongside Biola Alabi other Co-Executive producers include Mr. Sunday Agboola, Mr. On why they partnered Lara and the Beat, Mr. Ayo Subair, LIRS Chairman said, “We have an important story to tell about our work in Lagos state, and we believe that “Lara and the Beat had a brilliant storyline that sat very well with the message

we are trying to tell the good of people of Lagos state, so it made sense for us to partner Other partners for the movie include: FIRS, Fidelity Bank, Close-Up, Knorr, M-Cash, Lara and the Beat is about the young and beautiful Giwa sisters caught in the centre of a financial scandal with their parent’s media empire. The sisters are forced out of their privileged bubble, and must learn to build their own future and salvage their The movie also tells a love story between Lara and Sal (a.k.a The Beat), who helps find her voice and jumpstart her musical journey. It is a movie about loss, love, This phenomenal movie premiere and the resounding satisfaction expressed by guests at the movie premiere, gives much credence to the fact that Lara and the Beat The film was distributed by FilmOne and was available in cinemas nationwide from July 20, 2018. Group ED/ COO of FilmOne Distribution, Moses Babatope said, “This is another brilliant production from the Biola Alabi Media team, and we are delighted “I had looked forward to this movie from the first time I saw the trailer and seeing the movie tonight it didn’t disappoint at all. From the cinematography to the music soundtrack, everything moved the story along so well‌ It’s been an awesome “Lara and the Beat is indeed the movie to see, and what I’ve seen tonight excites me for what the future holds for Nollywood,â€? said Hazeez Balogun, a movie critic.

Ooni of Ife Donates Vocational Centre in Umuahia In furtherance of his commitment to putting smiles on faces of the less privileged in the society cutting across tribes, religion, and ethnicity, the Ooni of Ife, Oba EnitanAdeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, through his Hopes Alive Initiative, has donated a vocational centre equipped with various facilities to So-Said Charity Home in Ubakala, Umuahia South Local Government of Abia State. The Deputy Convener of Hopes Alive Initiative, Miss Temitope Adesegun, said the home has lacked a vocational centre since it was established 22 years ago, adding that the decision to put a structure for the rehabilitated members of the home was to empower them to become useful to themselves and their immediate environment. “Hopes Alive Initiative is

cutting across boundaries just to empower people. His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye is a wonderful father, a great motivator and selfless humanitarian, one whose love for humanity transcends across all tribes, races, religion, culture and whatever gender. “I believe that God divinely created the Ooni for the less privileged to make them happy and live a fulfilled life, I would say we are here in Abia State according to God’s directive, who ordered our steps to be here for a very unique set of people created by God but abandoned by relatives. “The home is reforming these set of people through Mrs. Felicia Martins, founder of So-Said Charity Homes who is doing a great job of impacting lives. Our coming here is to add

value to what she is doing by rehabilitating this set of people and in order to compliment her efforts, we decided to establish a vocational centre well equipped for training of these people after their rehabilitation process�, she said. Welcoming the team to Umuahia, the Enyi Abia, Eze Raphael Mbagu, described the Ooni of Ife as a true humanitarian who has proved that Nigerians are one family and should not allow tribalism to tear them apart. The Nonagenarian prayed for long life for the Ooni who was represented by Oba Taofeek Oshunmakinde, the Obawure of Ife and his Emese who conveyed the Ooni’s staff of office to the event. In response, Martins said with seven branches across the coun-

try, the home was established for the vulnerable persons on the street and has been operating for over 22 years to rescue those who had fallen on the path. According to her, the initial plan was to focus on mentally derailed people, but they later realised that not all persons roaming the streets are mentally ill but there are women with marital issues who are sent packing from their matrimonial homes, children who lost their way home, special children with syndromes, prostitutes, beggars and people with challenge in different areas. She said over the years the home has focused on mentally ill persons and children with syndrome, as well as those retired to the roads due to their challenges, adding that those are the group of people the home rescues.

Princesses Modupe Ozoula, under the umbrella of her non-profit organisation, Empower 54, has partnered Edo monarchs consisting of traditional rulers and local government council chairmen, to organise a medical outreach programme to help 271,000 children and women in the state from August -September 2018. The aim of the medical outreach programme is to distribute medication that will improve the health of children and pregnant women. The medication to be distributed is Albendazol, a critical drug in the treatment and prevention of various parasitic worm infestations in children aged six months to five years, and prenatal vitamins for pregnant women. According to Ozolua, the medical outreach will run for one month in Owan West, Owan East, Etsako and Akoko-Edo Local Government Areas of Edo state. She is embarking on this initiative because of her passion for the health of children and also in line with the objective of the Federal Government healthcare project focused on the poor, especially women and children under five years. The monarchs in partnership with Ozolua include the Olososo of Ososo, Oyan Ososo, Oba Anselm Adeloro Obaitan, Ichama II; the Arah of Evbiobe, Prof Joshua Oje Aisiku; and the Ogbachi of Auchi, Princess Hajiya Zuletu Momoh. Other partners include the Edo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Jimoh Ijebai; the Chairman of Akoko Edo Local Government Area, Hon. Oteh Omoru; the Chairman of Owan West Local Government Area, Hon. Frank Ilaboya; and his counterpart at Etsako West Local Government Area, Hon. Musa Yakubu. Others are Vitamin Angels and the Edo State Ministry of Health. Empower 54 has been providing humanitarian assistance since 2003 through initiatives in health, education, and empowerment programmes for internally displaced persons (IDPs)/refugee and underprivileged Africans. Ozolua was born in Benin City, Edo state on October 10, 1973 into the Royal House of the Benin Kingdom. She is the great granddaughter of the legendary Benin warrior King, Oba Ozolua. In 1989, she left to study in Southwestern College, San Diego (California), and Devry International University, Los Angeles, California. In 2001, at the age of 27, she pioneered Cosmetic Surgery in Nigeria, West Africa through her business, Body Enhancement Limited. The first business princess Ozolua owned was a communication business in Los Angeles prior to bringing cosmetic surgery to West Africa at the age of 27.

Ozuola

Ă?Ă–Ă?ĂŒĂœĂ“ĂžĂŁ Ă?ĂžĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ• Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽĂ?Ăœ Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă’Ă?Ă? Ă&#x;âĂ&#x;ĂœĂŁ ÙÎĂ?Ă– Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ă’ Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Luxury Model Search Nigeria (LMSN), a competition aimed at discovering the next female leader, was recently launched in Lagos by Founder, Celebrity Network, Suzzie According to her, LMSN, unlike traditional beauty pageants and model searches, can be recognised today as the definitive platform where outstanding young women can break into the exciting world of fashion, and entertainment to carve out successful careers for themselves through a simple casting process. At the launch, which was organised to officially announce the entry of the brand into Nigeria, Odeniyi, also known as Suzzie D said: “We have created this platform in order “We are not just in search of the typical size zero girls but curvy girls who are the ideal Nigerian woman. We hope to find the best girl who can use the opportunity to create a platform to inspire young girls in Africa. “We want them to know that that it is possible for them to have big dreams and achieve them, that they can be anything they want to be once they put their minds to it. We are more than just a beauty pageant.â€? LMSN is an affiliate of Suzzie D Celebrity Network, which organises, promotes and supports diverse cultural activities in the field of international model searches and beauty pageants. The model search is also linked with Most Beautiful Girl in the World, guaranteeing winners international exposure in their chosen fields. The competition which opened on August 17, 2018 is for girls aged 18-25 and applications can be accessed through the website: www.luxurymodelsearchng.com/apply.

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Stirring Passion for Democracy through Documentary Film iREP Film Forum and Orange Academy XChange recently organised a lecture focusing on curbing violence in Nigeria’s democracy using documentary ďŹ lms. VANESSA OBIOHA reports

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nly a 15-minute time frame was allowed to view each clip. A time keeper was appointed to ensure that the reel did not go beyond the allotted time. Each time the film was paused, muffled sighs of protest were heard but quickly followed by curious glances at the facilitator, Femi Odugbemi, who walked round the hall with a cool demeanour. If this was a deliberate ploy by the filmmaker and documentarian, it worked perfectly. As soon as he continued in that signature husky voice, all eyes and ears returned to him. “Violence is not what happens before or on election day. It is what happens after election day,â€? he told his audience at the end of the first film, “The Supreme Priceâ€?, a documentary on the assassination of Kudirat Abiola, the wife of the late democracy hero, M.K.O. Abiola. Narrated by Hafsat, one of the daughters of the deceased, the students from Orange Academy caught a glimpse of the violence that swept the country following the annulment of the June 12 elections in 1993. “The killing of people during election period is graphically violent,â€? Odugbemi continued. “But violence goes beyond that. The violence in our society today is fake news, corruption of the media‌violence can be institutionalised when left unchecked.â€? To buttress his point, another documentary titled ‘Kenya: A Guidebook to Impunity’ was screened. The documentary by Kenyan human rights defender and civil society leader Maina Kiai highlighted the flagrant abuse of power by Kenyan leaders during the 2013 elections. Within the allotted time of 15 minutes, the students watched survivors of the 2007 bloody election recount their harrowing experience; polling clerks grappling with the electronic vote transmission system introduced by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) — the electoral body in charge of the election — to aid

MARENIKAE IS READY FOR SHOWBIZ – Vanessa Obioha First, she changed her name; a necessity that spurred from the mispronunciation of her name by her American friends. “When I went to America people would always struggle with pronouncing my name. People would call me ‘more Nike’ thinking my parents named me after sneakers. So for them to be able to pronounce my name I had to figure out a universal spelling that will be easy,� she explained recently in an interview. Born Morenike Lasode, the US based singer Marenikae is leaving no stone unturned as she storms the music industry. Like her stage name, Marenikae has also created a unique genre that defines her style. She calls it Afro Merge, a fusion of Neo-soul, Afro-pop, Electronica, and some adult contemporary influences. Having being exposed to music at a young age by her father who is a composer and multiinstrumentalist, Marenikae found it easy to create indigenous sounds that will be embraced by the world. “The entire point of my genre is to make Afro music a little bit easier for foreigners to understand. African music is big all over the world but people always say they don’t understand what they’re saying. So let me

the voting process. Kiai’s findings exposed the irregularities of the election such as the faulty biometric voter registration devices. The chaos led to inconclusive results though the IEBC officials blatantly denied that the inefficiency of the electronic vote transmission system affected the election results. “Technology was believed to defeat violence. This has been proven wrong because violence is controlled by the people,� said Odugbemi. “The violence in democracy is not about blows, it is about deprivation, the lost promise of equity, the incapacity to live by the phrase ‘government of the people, by the people and for the people’. Violence in democracy is not about stealing of ballot boxes because in the next five years, that would not be possible. There are so many thugs out of work because of technology.� By the time he took the students on a tour of the historical museum in Freedom Park, Onikan, Lagos where the lecture held, the students had a better understanding of the struggle for democracy and why their votes mattered in the upcoming elections. He further urged them to demand accountability from the leaders. “I want you to think of yourself as a change agent. Democracy is about the distribution of commonwealth. It is your responsibility to find out what is going on in your country. You shouldn’t ask what Nigeria can do for you, rather ask what you can do for your country,� Odugbemi said. He added, “When you go online and people make mindless chatter, ask questions. Demand accountability from the future leaders, they are telling you who the bad guy is because they probably have no plan. You don’t need to rule Nigeria to have an impact. You can change the direction of conversations from your small circle. I will like you to think of the possibility of a future in which you use the power of documentary to take a journey of understanding. Think about what you should do to make democracy work. What is the issue in this country that you think if you make a broad understanding of will make a change.� make Afro music that a Nigerian will love and understand and people out there will understand as well.� But beyond her sounds, the 25 year-old singer also dabbled into the business of music. She registered for Broadcast Music, Inc (BMI), applied for her music to be on streaming platforms such as Pandora, Tidal, Spotify, as well as identifying with the major copyright organisations in Nigeria. She also founded The Zuchia Nexus, an independent label geared towards becoming a meeting place for international producers, songwriters and artistes. In addition, she started a fashion line called Makan Gid’n as an extension of her music. A blend of West African culture meshed with urban streetwear, some of her iconic pieces are created from old naira notes. For now, her main goal is to connect with Nigerians through her sounds. Already, her hit track ‘Smooth Operator’ from her debut album ‘Ajebutter’ is enjoying favourable airplay. EVE JOHNSON, MADE FROM A DIFFERENTCLOTH – Vanessa Obioha “But I’m not from this world, I got it under my feet,� raps Eva Johnson on the track “The Ink. The Voice�, from her debut album, “Made

Femi Odugbemi teaching the Orange Academy students

He implored them to find about the history of Nigeria. To question the past in order to understand the future The lecture organised by iREP Film Forum and Orange Academy XChange is part of the institution’s Idea School Workshop. Last year, the focus was on rape. This year’s edition centred on curbing violence in democracy. The students were asked to create an idea on how they can get citizens to obtain their PVCs. For the remaining part of the lecture, Odugbemi elaborated on the theme ‘Democracy and Documentary Film’, underscoring the importance of documentary as an agent of social change in a democratic society. “Documentary has the power of agency. It simply means it can represent those who have no voice. Those who suffer the impact of a failed democratic system usually have no platform to air their views. What documentary does in democracy is to give them agency, represent the voiceless and the powerless,� he declared. Beyond the agency role, Odugbemi stressed that one of the key objectives documentary strives to achieve, is truth and accountability. He said, “Documentary seeks the truth. With the rise of digital platforms, fake news has become legitimate. It is not only about information anymore but also about

disinformation. You will find out that in the realm of politics, disinformation is more powerful than information. Because information demands one thing for it to transmit from being a set of facts into truth. It demands accountability. Documentary brings accountability to the table; it does not bring one perspective or opinion to the table but many. Beyond that, it shows you in images, events when you put them together ordinarily will make no meaning or have the power to impact. But when you put series of events together in a documentary you begin to see one thing that truth reveals. Truth reveals trends, patterns, and precedents.� Another major role documentary plays, according to the filmmaker, in a democratic society is to light our past so we could see the future. He recalled the Nigerian Civil War and queried: “Why is there no memorial for the lost souls of the civil war?� As a renowned filmmaker, Odugbemi believes that every filmmaker should be concerned about using the Africa cinema to change the narratives of democracy. “Now more than ever, filmmakers must fight to give a voice to the disaffected, the poor and the oppressed,� he concluded.

From a Different Cloth�. There is no mistaking the confidence in her voice. It is that of a woman who is young, bold and determined to rule her world. In her twenties, the young artist has different layers to her personality, depending on the one you want to see. There is the actress, the singer, the rapper, the dancer, the spoken word poet and the lawyer. She has performed at various shows and earned accolades as a reckoning force in the creative field. Arts, according to the artiste, come naturally. Having parents who are professionals in the field was a big bonus. So when the time came to choose an educational course, she opted for law. “Theatre arts run in my blood so I didn’t see the need to study it in the university. Both the law and arts are important to me,� said the graduate of law who is about to embark on her third degree in Technology Law at University of Cambridge. At her recent album launch at The Artisan, Victoria Island, Lagos, Johnson wowed her guests with her performances. She rapped, sang, danced and took us to the heavens with her inspirational hit ‘Warship’, which she performed with the artiste Angeloh. The 12-track album is a sophisticated mix of poetry in different genres of music. “I will call my style alternative poetry. The

album is telling a story, using rhymes to explore different forms of music.� Although she advocates for human rights and equality through her pieces, Johnson also celebrates the strength of women. Through this album, Johnson is sending a strong message to her fans that she is not an average woman, but a dominant force in the creative space. NIGERIANS SHOULD CELEBRATEWHATIS RIGHT, NOT CRIMINALS – 2BABA – Sunday Ehigiator Legendary Nigerian singer, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba has in a new interview with Show Time, advised Nigerians to stop celebrating criminaly minded politicians who are only out to loot public funds. In his chat, he said “My advice to the youths is that we should begin to celebrate what is right. We should stop celebrating criminals; we should stop hyping people that have done nothing to benefit us. “Imagine, someone wakes one morning and suddenly becomes a senator with a lot of money; people will begin to celebrate him/her even when he has done nothing for his people. “When you campaign for votes and you finally win, you’ve to have something to

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show for those votes. So, we need to begin to celebrate people who are genuine and not criminals. “I’m hoping that Nigerians will understand that politicians should not use them again; I’m hoping that they would understand that these people will tell their usual stories, but we also should tell our own story this time around.� The “African queen� crooner likewise advised the government to improve on communication with the masses, adding that when people don’t know what is happening, they tend to talk and they tend to argue. “My advice is that they should speak to the people more, they should let us know what’s happening. When people don’t know what’s happening they tend to talk and argue. “When we hear something in the news tomorrow we don’t even know if it’s the truth or a lie because the government doesn’t even talk to us; we don’t even know what’s going on. “And that is a major issue; they should let the people know what’s going on, so, that the people can participate and be actively involved in the governance of the nation. The government should carry the people along.� WHY I DECIDED TO GO FOR NYSC – DAVIDO REVEALS

Guy Code Show Returns to MTV Base Vanessa Obioha

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TV Base Guy Code, a show about the rules guiding the everyday life of modern man, is set to return for its second season in Nigeria. Guy code which is sponsored by Gulder, is the ultimate guy’s guide to the laws of manhood. The show, which had a successful ďŹ rst season, is set to return with quips, tips and the latest rules that every modern Nigerian young man should know. In typical fashion, it will also be featuring A-list celebrities, as they give their take on some of the latest dating trends and guy codes. Borne out of a mission to understand what makes the modern Nigerian man tick, this season will see the show address issues such as exes to relationship drama, reputation, dripping in ďŹ nesse, wedding etiquette, and more. This season is set to celebrate modern masculinity, a theme which has typiďŹ ed the Gulder brand in recent

times. This year’s edition will feature rapper, and songwriter, Falz; actors, Kunle Remi and Mawuli Gavor; singer and songwriter Seyi Shay, and former Big Brother Naija housemate, Teddy A, as well as other top Nigerian celebrities. You can also expect appearances from some of the leading ladies in Nigerian entertainment. The collaboration between Gulder and MTV Base has been hugely successful as the programme has quickly become a fan favourite for guys looking to learn the rules of the game, as well as ladies who are looking for insights into the alpha male’s thought process. With all the trends to have emerged in the last couple of months and with hot takes and perspective from the cast, this season of Guy Code sets to be even bigger than the last. Fans can expect the usual controversial topical discussions that the show thrives on. As the show airs Sunday on MTV Base, Guy code is bringing back all the exciting discussions about the comical lows and hilarious highs of being a Nigerian man.

– Sunday Ehigiator While it is no longer news that Davido is taking part in this year’s orientation of the National Youth Service Corps, the music star has given reasons for his action. He made this known while answering questions fielded to him by newsmen at the Iyana Ipaja, Lagos camp of the National Youth Service Corps. He said,“As a young age Nigerian, I would not want to miss the opportunity to be part of the service year. I registered for the scheme due to my strong passion for NYSC.� Meanwhile, he has since left camp for Boston, where he went to perform at a show. It’s not yet clear if he was given permission to absent himself from camp. GET POSHEDUP BY EBUBE NWAGBO – Vanessa Obioha Nollywood actress Ebube Nwagbo recently joined the league of thespians who are venturing into the fashion industry. Transforming her everyday looks into a new clothing line she dubs, “PoshedUp by Ebube Nwagbo�, the venture is a follow-up to her human hair collection which she started few

Davido

Falz Becomes First Nigerian Artiste to Win Two AMVCAs Sunday Ehigiator Folarin Falana, popularly known as ‘Falz the bad guy’ recently bagged another Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Award (AMVCA) , thus distinguishing him as the very first Nigerian artiste to clench two of such awards. Falz bagged the first award in 2016 for his role as ‘Sege’ in TV drama series,

Jenifa’s Diary. The University of Reading-trained lawyer won the second award for his role in ‘New Money’. He won for the Best Supporting Actor. Some of the movies he has featured in include ‘Couple of Days’, ’10 Days in Sun City’, ‘Muna’, ‘Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons’. Falz

years ago. Driven by the need for expansion and a hunger to exercise her creative muse, PoshedUp creatively explores the terrain of mid-range, ready-to-wear clothing spiced with a soupcon of class that helps project a trendy look for contemporary fashionistas. She said, “My line is not about couture wears, at least not for now,� adding, “It is me recreating my styles, my favourite looks for public consumption. I want to make people believe that they can wear casuals and walk the red carpet. It must not be a long dress or flowing gown, I want people to believe that dressing simple can still give you that look, and still make you stand out anywhere.� The idea to set the line into traction according to the actress was conceived last year, but failed to launch due to the overwhelming process involved in depicting her vision to create pieces that truly reflects her personality. Though not skilled at sketching, Nwagbo sees herself as a creative designer – just like Donatella Versace in her early days as muse to Gianni Versace – who employs creative minds that understand her thought process at organising cloth fabric, fittings, designs and graphics, and help bring them to life in the form of wearable pieces. She described the process leading up to the launch of her clothing brand as ‘challenging’, mostly owing to the fact that each piece goes through a scratch-to-finish process. “Every piece I’ve made has a back-story to it. I decided to do this last year but putting it together wasn’t easy because I needed to create everything by myself. It has to reflect me this time. I don’t even know how to sketch to save my life but it still didn’t stop me.� In an industry booming with numerous fashion lines and riddled with bootlegging, Nwagbo hopes to use the tool of authenticity to surmount rival brands and outright copycats. Her brand perception, which is synonymous with comfort, style and affordability, she believes, would help her realise her goal in the industry. EX-MODEL LAUNCHES ASSOCIATION FOR MODELS – Vanessa Obioha The modelling industry in Nigeria and Africa at large is seeing a number of dynamic changes as it aims to compete in the international market. Nigeria models for a long time have graced various international red carpet events and exclusive fashion shows as headline models. Despite the personal successes recorded by notable Nigerian models, global recognition is a still a far cry. The reason is not far-fetched; the rising stigma of human trafficking, underpayment of models, sexual assault and a number of social ills are some of the factors affecting the industry. It is against this backdrop that ex-model turned businesswoman Aisha Bello, set up an association that will fight for the rights of models across the country. Known as “Organisation for Models in Nigeria�, the new umbrella body for models aims to portray Nigerian models in a positive light, as well as protect young women in the modelling industry from being taken advantage of by the industry. The organisation also plans to teach young women various life and business skills that would be beneficial to them after leaving the red carpet. Bello said at the launch of the association recently in Lagos, “Organisation For Models in Nigeria is established to sanitise the modelling industry in Nigeria. We will be able to see to the general interests and support of all our models. There are so many challenges facing the industry from unjust treatments of models, low pay to even sexual abuse by models scouts and managers. “The association’s goal is to bring all the models under one umbrella and put an end to it or at least, reduce it to the barest minimum possible.� Its overall objective according to Bello is to cater to the growing needs of the industry.

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Guinness Holds Safety Week for Coy’s Workers Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

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n order to ensure safety at the work place, Guinness Nigeria PLC, Benin Plant has organised a safety week for its workforce, transporters and drivers. Speaking at the event in Benin City, Guinness Director of Supply, Colman Hanna, said because of the premium the company placed on safety, it decided to organise the three days programme to bring everybody together to look at those things that causes harm. Hanna, who was represented by the Director of Site, Mr. Adebayo Alli, said the safety programme served as an opportunity particularly for the drivers and transporters of Guinness products to have restraints, observe safely rules whenever they are on the road by not drinking and driving. “By the time the programme is completed, it will serve as a special knowledge to the drivers and transporters on best practices especially for vehicles and ensure the mechanical aspect are properly taken care of�, he said. He also noted that some of the highlights include how the participants can take care of their health, such as periodic eye test, blood sugar and blood pressure in order to bring safety on the roads. Speaking also, Transport/Logistics Manager, Oluwafemi Adebayo; Regional Manager (East), Magnus Amaechi, and National Transport Manager, Guinness, Adeyemi Adedeji, told journalists that the three-day event would train 200 drivers daily. They said to ensure safety compliance, the company has installed tracking devices on all the over 1,000 that lift it’s products. The trio also disclosed that the company maintains a clinic where drivers can go periodically to have medical checkup like eye test and their blood pressure

L-R: Manager, Transport/Logistics and Customer Service, Guinness Nig, Oluwafemi Adebayo; Deputy Corps Commander, FRSC, Benin, Udensi Oji; Site Director, Guinness Nig, Adebayo Alli; Guinness Regional Logistics Manager (East), Magnus Amaechi; HOD Training, FRSC, Kyrian Okolo and National Transport Manager, Adeyemi Adedeji, during the safety week programme

because they have had cases of drivers collapsing on the wheel. Guinness, they pointed out has rules of engagement that must be adhered to- like financial capability of transporters to pay their staff, proper vehicle maintenance, tracking devices to prevent over speeding, as well as an ambulance in case of any accident. Addressing participants at the event, Edo State Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps, Mr. Kyrian Okoh, noted that safety in any operational environment is key, especially when it involves transport and logistics. He observe that the theme of the programme: “Be Safe� with the acronym

Smart, Alert, Focused Education, further shows that the firm is committed to the safety of its staff and third party workforce in and out of the company’s premises. The Edo FRSC Sector Commander, who was represented by the Deputy Corps Commander, Udensi Oji, while commending management of Guinness for the programme, said the Road Marshal is always happy to be in a forum or gathering where safety is being promoted, adding that such compliments their preaching to motorists on the road. He said: “To be a good driver, you need all the good qualities. We want to commend Guinness for putting this

Lagos Community Inaugurates New Asiwaju, Calls for Opportunities Rebecca Ejifoma The people of Ebira Community in Lagos State have inaugurated Momoh Sanni Yakubu as the new Asiwaju Odayani of their land, who will oversee them as the traditional ruler henceforth. Residents came out enmasse to witness the commemoration of inauguration as the Asiwaju Odayani of the community, which has existed for about 400 years in Lagos. The leader expressed concern on the need by the state government to recognise the Ebira community, especially in the areas of employment, appointments, and other benefits traditional leaders enjoy, among others. Yakubu said Ebira people were yet to directly benefit from the government in some areas. “We are appealing to the governor and government of Lagos State to remember

our people in those areas other tribes and their leaders are getting in the state�. The newly inducted leader, who reiterated that Ebira had been in Lagos for more than four centuries, pleaded with the state government to consider their indigenes for better opportunities. Speaking at the ceremony, the Asiwaju of Ikeja I, Ebira Community, Lagos, Dr. Ojo Jimoh, further appealed to the government to support Ebira community. “The government should try and give our people the needed support by extending to us employment opportunities for our youths,� Jimoh urged. Meanwhile, ahead of the 2019 elections, Yakubu called on members of his tribe to support the Governor Akinwunmi Ambode-led administration, commending Ambode for “rapid developments witnessed in the state� in the last three and the half years. While charging his kinsmen to get their

Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) to return the current governor to power in 2019, he said this is because the APC government in the state practice continuity since inception of the present democratic dispensation. Describing the Ebira people as peace makers, Yakubu tasked members of his community on peaceful coexistence with other tribes in the state. He, however, admonished the youths not to be used as tools for political violence. “I am using this medium to call on my people to support Governor Ambode for reelection. The governor in this first term has surpassed everyone’s imagination with the way he performed; the development we all witnessed in Lagos in the last three years is a great one. “Many will agree with me that Lagos is the luckiest state in the country, because since 1999 till date there has been successive continuity. The case is not like this in other states�, he added.

Special Olympics Nigeria Launches UniďŹ ed Art Project Special Olympics Nigeria (SO Nigeria) held an event - Day of Art - to mark the launch of her Youth Innovation Unified Art Project. The project in collaboration with Socially Africa, uses Arts as a tool to drive the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities (PWIDs) in the society and adopts a unified model to train, foster friendship and create support systems for PWIDs. The event which was tagged, “Art for Allâ€?, had in attendance Nigeria’s foremost graffiti Artist and Design Consultant, Osa Osakpolor, popularly known as Osa Seven, who spoke about the relevance of art in transforming society. Adeola Oladugba, Manager, Sports Programs at Special Olympics Nigeria also gave a talk on the Special Olympics movement, stressing that

PWIDs also referred to as athletes, remain the focal point of the non-profit organisation. The highlight of the event was the screening exercise conducted to select 16 participants - eight athletes and eight partners – who would proceed to the next stage. The 16 finalists will undergo a six-weeks art training under the tutelage of art instructors from House of Bezalel. In a bid to foster inclusion and social interaction between athletes (people with intellectual disability) and partners (people without intellectual disability), the Unified Art curriculum is designed with opportunities of collaboration between the participants. At the end of the six weeks training there will be a Unified Art Competition and

art exhibition to showcase the beautiful art designs created by the eight pairs of athletes and partners. This event will also feature dance competition and other activities to help participant have fun and enjoy the company of their friends. Special Olympics is an international non-profit organisation that champions the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities into society. The organisation which recently marked her 50th anniversary in Chicago on July 20, 2018, is evolving into a movement championed by athletes themselves, hence this Unified Art Project was coordinated by Special Olympics Nigeria Athlete Leader, Tomiwa Adeyemo under the supervision of his mentor Abiola Oyeneye.

programme together for its staff, transporters and drivers. By the end, it will be enough for them to know the need to observe safety. “That if you want to drink while driving, only drink water; that it is important you put on your seat belt anytime you are driving; that intimidating smaller vehicles on the road is not good; that you must show restraint and do thing that will guarantee safety not only for yourself, but for all other road users�. Highlights of the event was the presentation of gift items to some of the participants who overtime had displayed good conduct.

Ă˜Ă“Ă™Ă˜ ÙÖÎĂ? Ă˘ĂšĂ™Ëœ Ă‹Ă?Ă• Ùà Þ˛ ÞÙ Ă‹ĂžĂœĂ™Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă?Ă‹Ă– ĂœĂ“Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ?

Ayodeji Ake The National Union of Printing Publishing and Paper Products Workers (NUPPPPROW), have urged the Federal Government to patronise the local industry instead of their foreign counterpart, as this would help develop the printing industry. The union made this plea at the Nigeria International Print Expo 2018 organised by DCS Integrated Media Limited in Lagos which held at Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island. While lamenting that government policies have made printing costlier locally, they further tasked the Independent National Electoral Commission ( INEC ) to patronise local printers on election materials, even as the 2019 general election draws closer. Speaking at the event, the National President of NUPPPPROW, Mr. John Ushie, said: “Giving such contracts to foreigners will be jeopardising the mandate of building local capacity and creating jobs. “90 per cent of government printing jobs are taken abroad. The reason is that of wrong government policy that makes printing abroad cheaper than in Nigeria.� Managing Director, Bank of Industry, Mr. Olukayode Pitan, who was represented by the Deputy General Manager, SME, South, Mr. Ayo Bajomo, however said: “At BOI, we have about N20 billion available for light manufacturing companies of which printing industry falls within the category. “To access below N10 million required no collateral. All you need is a guarantor. We have set up a different loan package to help galvanise and revitalise Nigerian economy.

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ART WEEKEND

‌For pure art enthusiasts

BOOK REVIEW

Ă?ĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Nigeria

Trumoeter Benue Art Council

Heritage Africa Revives Arts in Abuja Stories by Yinka Olatunbosun

T

he bead-decorated dancer glided across the stage in slow, snake-like swangedance, which is associated with the Tiv traditional dancers. Called Kwagh-hir theatre, the late-night spectacle at the newly-built amphi-theatre at Heritage Africa Village Square (HAvis) signalled a looming season of cultural renaissance in Abuja. The creative community in Nigeria’s Federal Capital City of Abuja will give their counterparts in other parts of Nigeria a run for their money with the birth of this new cultural centre. It is atypical, with perks such as a ninehole golf course, beautiful Jabi lake view, a towering glass-house exhibition hall as well as a 1000-seater amphi-theatre designed for multi-purpose use; add to these a proposed studio room with film editing kit. A guided tour of Heritage Africa was recently championed by Moses Ayom, a household name in hospitality and construction industry. Ayom was compelled to invest hugely in the arts when the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo declared a tax waiver for the creative industry. Osinbajo has been very vocal in reiterating the contribution of the creative sector to Nigeria’s economy. At a recent relaunch of the Dome in Abuja, Osinbajo compared Dubai and Nigeria, remarking that the former draws up only 20 per cent of its revenue from oil. The creative sector reportedly contributed 2.3 per cent to the Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product in 2016, that is, N239billion. Ayom must have glimpsed a huge economic potential in art as well when he sold an art work for an undisclosed mouthwatering sum some years ago. Before then,

his involvement in art was peripheral, enjoying the applause of a dancer in his school days. As one who, personally benefitted from the arts, from petty art trading to contracted supplies, giving back to the creative community is Ayom’s desire and he chose a most improbable location, Abuja. Many had thought that art is not as vibrant in Abuja as it is in big cities like Lagos and Ibadan. The reality is that there is a significant population of artists across the genres living in Abuja who do not have a rallying point like the Lagos’s Freedom Park or Terra Kulture. Certainly, there are a few art galleries in Abuja but Heritage Africa comes with a broader spectrum, serving as a platform of creative expression in multiple genres of art such as performing, visual and literary arts. Heritage Africa is created simply as an empowerment centre targeting creative youths in arts and crafts. Ultimately, the vision is to curate creative programmes that can reach out to far-flung corners of Nigeria such as the IDP camps. The facility is close to completion with buildings for resident writers called, “Writers Village’’. To transform Abuja from being construed as a sleeping city of civil servants to a city of creative charm, a gala night was staged for the first time in August as a pilot performance night at the centre’s amphi-theatre. How refreshing it was to welcome back to life puppeteers, masqueraders, oral story tellers of the Kwagh-hir theatre fame! Dating back to early 20th century, Kwaghhir theatre articulates music, dance, drama, folklore and comedy. The total theatre experience was heightened by a dramatic storytelling from Gondo Edwards and the use of masks.

The educative aspect of the Heritage Africa Initiative is anchored by the renowned Professor Duro Oni towards developing rich cultural programmes through the centre’s team of creatives. Oni, a former Director for the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) commended the private-sector driven initiative during a press conference held to announce the impending arrival of the centre. “The creative industry has been yearning for the private sector to make an input,’’ he began. “For many years, we clamoured for the National Endowment Fund. It has yet to take off. That is why several eggheads, other stakeholders have assembled here in Abuja to come up with the mission, aims and objectives of the Heritage Africa Village Square. “The centre is set to empower practitioners and make arts employ many youths. There will be training facilities and there is already an MOU with a Chinese institute on language training and exchange�, he said. At the moment, finance is the largest obstacle to a rapid realisation of the dream of this audacious cultural centre in Abuja which will be commissioned later this year. Still holed in the pipeline is the proposed African Fashion House, a showroom of exquisite Nigerian and African fabrics sourced from indigenous communities. Situated as a family-oriented home of cultural entertainment, Heritage Africa will also be the first privately owned cultural centre that makes room for a media centre. Other intellectuals involved in developing ideas for the centre include Professor David Ker from Nassarawa State University and culture consultant such as Jahman Anikulapo with Ier Jonathan Ichaver as lead consultant.

ART X Lagos Returns with 50 Artists West Africa’s Premier International Art Fair, ART X Lagos, is set to hold from November 2 to 4 as its traditional venue, Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event, which is the biggest for the visual arts sector in Nigeria, parades the finest of contemporary art. At this edition, 18 galleries in Africa will feature 50 artists. The exhibiting galleries are Addis Fine Art (Ethiopia), Afriart Gallery (Uganda}, Art House- The Space, Artyrama (Nigeria), Bloom Art (Nigeria),Circle Art

Agency (Kenya), Gallery 1957 (Ghana), Nike Art Gallery (Nigeria), Nubuke Foundation (Ghana)band Out of Africa Gallery (Spain). Others include: Retro Africa (Nigeria), Signature Beyond (Nigeria), SMAC Gallery (South Africa), SMO Contemporary (Nigeria), Stevenson (South Africa), TAFETA (UK), Thought Pyramid (Nigeria) and Tiwani Contemporary (UK). One of the most interesting aspects of the fair is the talk session which features worldrenowned artists. Titled ART X Talks, this

session is curated by Missla Libsekal and scheduled to hold on November 3 and 4. The fun is incomplete without the ART X Live, a nightlife entertainment segment at the waterfront lounge inside Civic Centre where inviting champagne glasses, fine wine and good music meet. The fair will also feature a series of diverse and exciting art installations curated by A Whitespace Creative Agency. Last year, over 10,000 visitors were received at the three-day art fair which was launched in 2016.

The size of this 98-paged book titled, “Nigeria on the Precipice: Lessons for Emerging Heterogeneous Democratic Societies’’ is quite deceptive. It is very detailed in explaining the existence of the Nigerian state and the root cause of her hydra-headed problems. Written by Michael Owhoko, this social commentary presents Nigeria as a nation of complexities with an overriding mix-bag of pessimism and patriotism from the author. It’s essential to have an objective perspective on Nigeria’s continued existence such as offered in this book. Many respected writers have produced brilliant but sentimental narratives on the Nigerian Civil War, corruption and other threats to national unity. What Owhoko has carefully done in this book is to write from a bird’s eye view, detaching self from the accounts while drawing upon a variety of sources in articulating his unbiased views on the sensitive topic of national unity. If you pick the book with the hope of getting a singular position held by the author, you may become confused. The author lays before the readers the multiple options that can help to solve the national puzzle of our continued co-existence as a multi-cultural entity. To a large extent, Owhoko is an authority on the Nigerian state having built his career life through the financial sector, oil and gas industry and of course the media. His work is also a proof of his interest in research and historical grounding, both of which provided a comfortable seat for this literary effort. This easy read captures Nigeria at a glance, with a surgical thinking into the nature of Nigeria. Very similar to Chinua Achebe’s The Trouble with Nigeria, this new piece addresses the resurgence of Biafra and other agitations echoing in different parts of the country. When a surge of fresh clamour for restructuring flooded Nigerian media, it was worrisome considering the credible sources from which it was streaming from. After 57 years over existence, the idea of disintegrating is simply disconcerting, but not unreasonable. The author seemed to be asking that the unity of Nigeria should not be forced on Nigerians. Owhoko traced the history of the Nigerian state to the 1914 amalgamation of the Northern and Southern protectorates by Lord Lugard. The rationale was to create a strong African state where wealth is evenly shared. The author stated that the Northern protectorate, under the colonial rule was not developing economically as their Southern counterparts. Hence, it was decided to pull the two sides together in what appears to be an early marriage. Perhaps, both sides needed some maturity that could have made them blind to ethnicity or ethnic pride. The deed has been done and in the interest of building a peaceful state, blame sharing should be stopped. What the author had done in this book is to revisit the issues that led to the threeyear long civil war and the deep animosity amongst the various ethnic groups. He also examined the rise of the Niger Delta agitations and the reason why the Petroleum Industry Bill has been jinxed. The book offers a template for understanding an heterogenous state in crisis while assessing the right path to development. It is for this reason that the book made an impressive showing at the London Book Fair earlier this year. No doubt, it is an essential read for many who await the 2019 polls with measured apprehension.

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FERTILITY

with DR. KEMI AILOJE Info@lifelinkfertility.com; Ă?ĂŒĂ?Ă“ĂžĂ?Ë? lifelinkfertility.com

Repeated IVF/Implantation Failure (Rif) Part 2

R

IF as discussed last week is an important cause of repeated IVF failure. It is a distressing condition for patients and verychallenging one for clinicians, it is therefore essential to understand underlying factors and possible manage-

or intrinsic factors. Several approaches has been suggested for overcoming these obstacle, and they include zygote Intra Fallopian Transfer (ZIFT), this is the process of transferring the day 2-3 embryos directly to the fallopian tube where it continues development, this process is more related to the natural development of embryos in the body and has been found to be very effective in improving the success rate of IVF among women with RIF.

ment.

The Endometrium The endometrium is the inner lining of the womb where embryos implant hence a functioning and receptive endometrium is crucial for embryo implantation. During the menstrual cycle the endometrium undergoes both morphologic and biologic changes that prepare it for interaction with the embryo, and ultimately for successful implantation. Once all biological changes transpire, the embryos can attach, invade the endometrium and finally implant. This crucial stage last for a few days and is referred to as the “window of implantation� the endometrium must proliferate, increase in thickness and then after ovulation, adequately respond to progesterone and become receptive. Ultrasound examination of the thickness and appearance of the endometrium is an easily performed means of assessing morphological changes occurring in the endometrium during the follicular phase, and thus used as a measure to predict successful implantation. Indeed several studies have reported a strong association between endometrial thickness and successful implantation. Implantation has been achieved in women with endometrial thickness of 6-8mm. Thin and unresponsive endometrium may result following previous surgical intervention within the uterine cavity. Management of thin endometrium has been achieved using high dose estradiol or vaginal estradiol, this is meant to increase the blood level of estradiol. Other medications include use of Aspirin and sildenafil tablet intended to increase blood flow to the endometrium.

The second player in the equation of successful implantation is the embryo. Implantation is in fact not an efficient process, as the natural conception rate, within timed intercourse in otherwise healthy young couples, is only about 25%. Inadequate receptivity, as discussed earlier is responsible for approximately two-thirds of implantation failures, whereas the embryos itself is responsible for only one-third of these failures. Abnormal karyotype of the embryos is one of the major reasons for failure of implantation and miscarriage. Both male and female partner may produce aneuploidy (abnormal chromosome) gametes, thus two third of the generated embryos may be abnormal, fail to implant or be aborted after implanting. Couple with RIF should be encouraged to do a karyotype (test done to look at the number and appearance of chromosomes in the nucleus of a cell). Couple found with abnormalities should be offered preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)

Embryonic factor Genetics

Zona Pellucida The zona pellucida is the outer wall/

covering of the female egg, the fertilized egg undergoes growth and development until it gets to the blastocyst level where it is ready to hatch through the zona pellucida. This is an essential step preceding implantation. Hatching involves both chemical and mechanical processes which eventually leads to the thinning of the zona pellucida as well of its rupture and blastocyst hatching. Abnormalities of the hatching process may contribute to failed implantation in an IVF attempt. The laser assisted hatching may be clinically useful in women above 38 years with RIF. Embryo Culture and Transfer The definition of RIF refers to the transfer of good quality embryos that do not result in implantation. Embryo quality is assessed by morphological criteria, under the assumption that the embryo although transferred on either day 2 or 3 after fertilization, would continue to develop in utero, reach the blast stage and then implant, however even embryo defined as good quality may cease to develop in utero and fail to progress into blastocyst stage. This may be due to either suboptimal local condition

Male Contribution To Embryo Competence For Implantation Several researches have proven that low sperm quality can decrease the success of IVF due to abnormalities in the sperm and DNA fragmentation. Researchers also report that the performance of sperm cells with poor morphology is low and also associated with high level of DNA fragmentation. This results in poor fertilization and implantation rate. The use of IMSI (Intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection) can help to detect DNA fragmentation. IMSI selected sperm cells have been associated with high implantation and live birth rate. The dilemma of repeated implantation failure can be overwhelming, it is important to talk to your fertility specialist, so that together you can overcome your challenge.

with LEKAN FATODU

Overscene

lekantodu@yahoo.com 08060140882

Diaspora Rising

As the Holiday is Over Most Nigerians don’t like to be“left out�, details on the journey and places to visit.

M

any people are believed to be familiar with the term Africa Rising. It’s a famous expression often used, by top government officials and big business players on the continent including the Western media and their policymakers, to describe economic growth in Africa in recent years and the emergence of vibrant entrepreneurs on the continent. Little wonder that the term has necessitated spin-offs in other places with “Latin America Rising� and “Asia Rising� to mention the prominent replicas. But given that the concept of Africa Rising is one that is seemingly focused essentially on economic growth and its management with little attention paid to good governance and sound democratic practices, it all now looks like the continent will experience a catalyst in those lacklustre areas with Diaspora Rising. It is fascinating to note that the African diaspora constituting millions of Africans residing in many Western countries has been aroused and are determined, more than ever before, to engage in development and governance on the continent. There are certainly many cogent reasons why the African diaspora is charged towards this intervention. The most significant one is the huge amount being sent regularly by Africans in diaspora to their home countries for various purposes which has become a huge contributor to foreign exchange in-flows into these African countries. For instance, according to the World Bank’s Migration and Remittances Data, the remittances to Sub-Saharan Africa in 2017 by Africans in diaspora has come up well at $38 billion. And out of this,

Blastocyst Transfer A Blastocyst is an embryo that has been cultured to develop in the incubator for at least 5 days. The success rate of blastocyst transfer is higher than day 2-3 embryo transfer. Culturing embryos to blastocyst stage will serve two goals. First of all, it enables better selection of embryos for transfer, secondly blastocyst is the normal stage embryos get to before implanting within the endometrium, hence we actually mimick nature when we transfer a blastocyst into the endometrium rather than a day 2-3. The chance of achieving the “window of implantation� is high too. Hence in women with RIF the transfer of blastocyst has been of immense benefit as it has been proven to have better implantation rate as well as live birth.

Nigerians in diaspora

Nigerians in diaspora made the highest remittances to their country with $22 billion in 2017. So there’s no reason searching further on why Nigerians in diaspora seem to have be “rising� – more alive and fired up – to engage and interrogate the cause of the country’s slow advancement. And they are not leaving the renewed resolve to just the foregoing. They are determined to proffer solutions and to see the solutions at work in the where needed. Clearly, the surge in the number of Nigerians from abroad now dotting the country’s political space, and with their convictions to contest for various elective positions in the coming general elections in 2019, are indications of the new “rising� on the continent. Of course, similar steps are being taken by citizens of Ghana, Kenya and Sierra Leone amongst others. And it is to be hoped that this new development will produce the kind of outcomes as “Africa rising� did.

to use the notable lingo. So they wouldn’t mind going out of their ways to be counted in a new way of life or trend. Before now, some privileged Nigerians have been observing regular holidays overseas in summer. Of course, it doesn’t matter whether Nigeria is blessed with almost permanent winter just like the cold weather is synonymous to Western nations. But the level at which talks on summer holiday and the desire to not miss one goes on amongst most Nigerians these days is curious. The enthusiasm and discussion around summer holiday is as important amongst family-friends and parents just as the way their children treat each other with thrilling

As such, and as earlier said, parents now go out of their ways literally to mark the rituals of summer holiday so as not to be seen to be “left out�. One can only hope that the frenzy to be part of the excitement of jetting out of the country does not drive people to spend money meant for school fees and other more pressing needs. And as another summer winds down and school resumption date draws nigh, it shouldn’t turn out that the collections of pictures from vacation are as heavy as tuition fees and other essentials. Should that be the case, it will be a very long postsummer hangover.

Finally, Buhari Speaks on Illegal Migration President Buhari may have previously spoken through his ministers; and heads of ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) over the crisis of illegal migration which has left many Nigerians trapped in some inhumane conditions in Libya before government’s intervention. But the president recently got an opportunity to personally express his mind on the matter – the hosting of the Prime Minister of Germany, Angela Merkel. “For those going to Europe, we are not as an administration agreeing with those who continue to defy the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean because they feel there are greener pastures there, whether they are prepared for it or not. We do not support

anything illegal and indiscipline. “About six weeks ago, we repatriated 3,000 Nigerians who were stuck in Libya on their way to Europe.You must have read in the papers and watch on the television the number of Nigerians lost in the Mediterranean. “We have made it very clear that we do not support anything illegal and anybody who feels this country does not offer him what he should be offered as a citizen and decide to defy the desert and the Mediterranean is doing it at his own risk�. As the popular saying goes, a word is enough for the wise. But the government also needs to keep its home in order, and do more on development that will discourage its citizens from taking the risky seaway to nowhere.

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COLLAGE EVENTS Event Professionals to Hold Annual Conference Stories by Mary Nnah

L-R; Director, BLES Biochemicals Inc., Ontario, Canada, Dr. Harol Nigh; Managing Director/Chief Executive OďŹƒcer of Thompson & Grace Pharmaceutical Limited, Lagos, Dr. Isaac Thompson Amos and Deputy High Commissioner of Canada in Nigeria, Mr. Jamie Christo, during the unveiling of BLES Surfactant for the treatment of premature infants in Lagos...recently

Come September 28, the Association of Professional Party Organisers and Event Managers of Nigeria, (APPOEMN), will begin its annual conference. The event known as ‘The Event Industry Conference (TEIC) 2018’ with the theme ‘Collaboration’ this September, will have a master class, a seminar and a dinner and awards night. Addressing a press conference recently in Lagos, the President APPOEMN, Ms Gbemisola Ope, stressed that the industry has continued to contribute to the Nigeria’s economy directly, as well as provide employment for Nigerians in the different fields of the economy. She said that professionals in the industry contribute over 50 billion dollars to Nigeria’s economy annually. In the build up to TEIC 2018, Ope revealed that APPOEMN held a nomination party where 200 nominees were unveiled on July 26, 2018 for the 35 category award that will be presented to the best in the industry at the forthcoming event. As part of this year’s event, a master class will hold on September 27 and also the after party themed “Wild Wild West�, will take place on the same day. The 2018 seminar will hold on September 28 and the grand finale: the dinner and awards night will hold on September 30. Event management, she added is an industry that employs the largest number of graduates in Nigeria, spanning across the fields of music, comedy, entertainment, information and communication technologies, catering and other service providers in the industry.

Methodist Old Girls Plan Walk to Raise Funds

Founder, Fola Ogunsola Foundation, Mrs. Fola Ogunsola (right) addressing students during Life After Campus Seminar for graduating students at UNILAG ... recently

A five kilometre health walk aimed at raising funds to improve girl’s education for the Methodist Girls High School, Yaba, Lagos alma mater will take place on Saturday, September 8, at the school premises. Scheduled to kick off by 7.30am, the walk will herald a press conference billed for 12 noon on same day. This, the association’s president, Mrs. Yomi Afolabi said will serve as a great opportunity to take a look round the school and meet some of group’s old girls in their late teens to nineties. Methodist Girls High School, Yaba, founded in 1878, is one of the oldest schools for girls in Lagos. The school, over the years, has contributed greatly to the development of the girl-child and the nation as a whole. The school has produced many eminent Nigerians who have contributed greatly to the socio economic development of our nation. These include Mrs. Ibukun Awosika of First Bank, Nigeria; Mrs. Betty Irabor, veteran journalist and Publisher Genevieve magazine; Dr. Oluyinka Esan, Professor of Mass Communication and Reader in Media and Film at the School of Media and Film, United Kingdom and General Dr. Tilewa Amusu (rtd.) This walk and the drive to keep improving the quality of education in the school, Afolabi noted is in line with the vision of the school to maintain the highest standards as laid by the founding missionaries, adding, “the school pursues the best in the spiritual, emotional, intellectual, physical and social life of every student that passes through her walls�.

Stella Mofunanya’s ‘A New Dawn’ Exhibition Kicks O

An exhibition on the Synthesis of Ginger Starch and Creativity by Stella Mofunanya, a textile and clothing senior lecturer at the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, is ongoing at the Didi Museum, Akin Adesola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. The show which kicked off on Thursday, September 6, run till September 9. The exhibition is part of Mofunanya’s effort in organising an empowerment workshop cum exhibition on Synthesis of Ginger starch and Creativity. According to her, the event will expose participants; women and youths, to the latest technology in creative design business. The programme tagged: “A New Dawn� equally feature speakers like Mrs Folorunsho Alakija, Deputy Chairman, FAMFA Oil Ltd and Prof Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos among others.

L-R: Area Sales Manager, PZ Wilmar, Obinna Okechukwu; 2nd Draw Star Prize Winner, Mamador Kitchen Makeover, Faith Francis Emesie, and Area Sales Manager, PZ Wilmar, Olalekan Olaniru, at the oďŹƒcial prize presentation in Abia...recently

L-R: Team Lead,Sales & Trade Development, MTN, Adewale Bamigba; Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi,Ojaja II; Brand Manager, Goldberg Nigeria Breweries, Akinola Josiah Olufemi; and Chief Festival Administrator, Otunba Ayo Olumokun, at the press conference to announce Olojo Festival 2018 at the Ooni’s Palace,Osun State... recently ÒÙÞÙË?

Mofunanya

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POTPOURRI

Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂŁĂĄĂ?Ă–Ă– Ă™Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă? Ă‹ĂžĂœĂ™Ă– Ă‹Ă˜ ÞÙ Ă?Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă? Ă™Ă?Ă“Ă‹Ă– Ă˜Ă Ă?Ă?Þ×Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂœĂ™Ă‘ĂœĂ‹Ă—Ă—Ă?

Aimart Realtor’s brand Ambassador, Tade Ogidan with the Chairman of Aimart Realtor, Dr. Martin’s Iluyomade at the event

Aimart Realtors Woos Youths, As Tade Ogidan, Francis Onwochei Become Brand Ambassadors Mary Nnah Dr. Martins Iluyomade, Chairman of Aimart Realtors, a fast growing property company with headquarters in Lagos, has stressed the need for young people to invest in properties during their youthful days. To this end, his company has come up with various products that will encourage young people invest in real estate. Speaking during the unveiling of the company’s brand ambassadors in Lagos recently, Iluyomade said, “More than 70 per cent of the population in Nigeria are youths, so we are asking young Nigerians to invest in real estate by putting their energy into something. “We don’t want to be called lazy because Nigeria youths are not lazy. They are hard-working and so we are saying let the hard work begin to speak through your investment in real estate as this will ensure your wealth is secured. “Before now, the idea is that it is people that are about to retire that invest in real estate. As a young man you can imagine you grow-

ing with your land and enjoying the value while you are still alive than someone else enjoying the fruit of your labour when you are gone.� Speaking on the strategies put in place to attract youths to invest in real estate, he said, “We break the payment down for them in the sense that you don’t have to pay the bulk of the money at once but gradually over a period of time. And if you are a youth, you are automatically qualified for discounts from us.� Collaborating, Managing Director, Ms Bukola Iluyomade, said the event also featured unveiling of Aimart Realtors various products, noting, “we have the Legacy scheme, Not Too Young to Own a Property Scheme, Home Owners Scheme, Land Banking Scheme and the Kiddies Scheme. “These are just different products that we have in order to encourage people to invest in property and put down something for themselves for the future.� In addition to that, the MD

said the company is trying to create awareness by using its brand ambassadors, who they also unveiled at the event. The brand ambassadors among others include a Nigerian Film and Television Screenwriter, Producer and Director. Tade Ogidan as well as Nollywood actor and director, Francis Onwochei. She revealed that Aimart Realtors which has only been around officially for a year, has existed for over a decade unofficially, adding, “We have 10 years of experience backing us up. “We are not just a baby company but officially, we decided to go into large scale operations just a year ago. We have been building for people, buying land and doing documentation because we give an all-encompassing service to people and now we are rolling out on a large scale. “We are based in Okota, Lagos but we have liaising offices at Lekki and Trade Fair Complex.� On the choice of the brand ambassadors, she said, “These are men of credibility and integrity.

And that is what we stand for. So we went out to look for people of like minds. You must work with the people you know you can get the best from, people that have the same ideology with you and believe in what you believe in. “And we have seen that in them. They have paid their dues. They are not new people in the Nollywood space but old timers an if they can give credence to what we are saying, that this is important, you need to invest and put things on ground for the future, it’s a win-win for everyone.� Assuring potential investors, she added, “our slogan is “Worry Free Homes� and that is our watch word. From the very beginning, you are informed duly about all the processes that go on in the land acquisition and we do our due diligence to ensure that the land is free and does not have any issues. “And then we have taken away the Omo-onile crisis by settling with them in our own way so that anyone coming is not disturbed by the Omo-onile.

Salvaging the Bread Industry in Nigeria Mary Nnah Bread is a basic staple in many homes in Nigeria. In fact, it is easily accessible than other kinds of food. Both the rich and the poor consume bread, and it comes in various sizes, shapes, compositions and price tags to meet the needs of different categories of consumers. With a population of over 180 million people and an estimated national population growth rate of 5.7 per cent per annum and an average economic growth rate of 3.5 per cent per annum in the past five years, Nigeria indeed has a large market for bread. The bread industry creates jobs - those directly employed by the industry, armies of bread distributors, sellers and hawkers all over the streets. Undoubtedly, it has reduced national unemployment in the country by a wide margin. Information gathered from the Premium Breadmakers Association of Nigeria (PBAN) alone has it that over 700 thousand people are gainfully employed in the premium bread sub sector of the industry both directly and indirectly. Notwithstanding the above, President of PBAN, Tosan Jemide,

revealed that several factors have over the years, been plaguing the profitability, viability and survival of the industry. “Premium bakeries are going under every day due to the unbearable cost of production. One of the biggest challenges facing the bread industry is government policies regulating importation of materials needed for the production of bread.� For one, there is a dissonance tune between government policies for the industry and the realities that major stakeholders that comprise bakers, face. For instance, the government charges 15 percent extra duty for wheat importation into Nigeria�, Jemide lamented. The PBAN President revealed further that in the last five years also, the price of raw materials for making bread has been on the steady increase with flour increasing by over 150 percent, noting that “Sellers of these raw materials can afford to hike their prices in demands to market forces but the premium baker is not as dynamic.� Yet another major challenge of the industry, Jemide said is the glut, saturation of that space with too many players. “For outsiders without much insight into the

industry, the business of bread making is looking very lucrative. This explains the many bakeriesboth certified by NAFDAC and non-certified by NAFDAC-in all nooks and crannies of the country.� Closely related to this, is the activities of unregistered, unlicensed and undocumented producers of bread, who are not under any obligation to adhere to NAFDAC health and other safety standards. They pose a risk not just to regulated bakers but to the last consumer. They produce cheap, but poor quality bread with unwholesome baking material like potassium bromate which is injurious to health and cancerous, nonetheless, attract high patronage because of their low prices. Jemide who said that PBAN recognises the efforts NAFDAC is making to stop the use of unwholesome baking materials for bread production, especially the use of potassium bromate that is, noted however that the Association feels NAFDAC is seriously under-staffed as a regulator of food and drugs in Nigeria. �We wonder how with a staff of about 2,300, NAFDAC is expected to police bakeries that use unwholesome baking materi-

als who are churning out killer products to the market in a vast and to be adequately staffed to enable them fulfil their regulatory functions�, the President of PBAN wondered. Speaking further, Jemide said, “The regulated and licensed bakers in PBAN, who have to bear the extra cost of meeting NAFDAC requirements, often find it difficult to compete with these unlicensed and unregulated producers on price. This is evidenced by the numbers of premium bakeries that are folding up daily. Some of the registered producers have been compelled to cut cornerssuch as defaulting on some of NAFDAC’s requirements-just to survive. � While calling for immediate action by all stakeholders, Jemide said the need to come to the roundtable and iron things out was important. �There should be a deliberate effort by the government to grow the premium bread making industry. PBAN will look at finding a way to engage government in finding lasting solutions needed to salvage the bread making industry in Nigeria�, the PBAN’s President noted further.

Mary Nnah In continued fulfilment of its corporate social responsibility, Honeywell Flour Mills Plc has donated a monitoring and patrol Hilux Vehicle to Benue Social Investment Programme (SIP). Donating the vehicle on behalf of the Honeywell Flour Mills Plc, the North Central Zonal Sales Manager, Sama Samuel said the gesture is the organisation’s modest way of contributing to the monitoring and evaluation of the Social Investment Scheme in the state, particularly its home- grown school feeding programme. Samuel, accompanied by the managing director, Securage Communications Services, Efosa Cliff-Ogiugo and the Benue State Sales Manager of Honeywell, Samuel Ogumamhi, said Honeywell Flour Mills Plc will not relent in living up to its corporate social responsibility and urged SIP to put the vehicle so donated to proper use. The Benue State Focal Person of SIP, Mr.Terris Damsa, who received the vehicle on behalf of the state government, lauded the management of the company for the gesture and for supporting SIP as stated in the Memoranda of Understanding (MoU). Damsa maintained that the vehicle given to the state SIP, apart from easing the logistic problem being faced by the organisation, will further enable them to deliver on the mandate and responsibilities of their organisation.

Ă?Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ă˜ĂžĂ? Ă–Ă‹Ă— Ùà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă™Ăœ Ă—Ă‹Ă’Ă“ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă˜Ă?Ă‹Ă“Ăœ Ă‹Ă˘Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Vincent Obia A good governance advocacy group in Ebonyi State, Movement for Greater Ebonyi, has condemned what it called draconian taxes and levies introduced by the Governor Dave Umahi government. The group said the governor’s recent announcement that illegal tax collection in the state had been suspended was deceitful. It accused Umahi of trying to hoodwink the people with a dishonest declaration concerning the controversial tax regime to secure re-election in next year’s general election. Movement for Greater Ebonyi slammed the governor for turning a blind eye to economic dislocations brought about by his administration’s several taxes and levies. “This is absolutely ludicrous,â€? leader of the group, Silas Nworie, said. “Many well-meaning Ebonyi people had begged him to stop his penchant for using unruly thugs to extort scarce money from innocent Ebonyi residents in the guise of taxes and levies, but all pleas fell on deaf ears.â€? Nworie said Ebonyi people were not deceived by the governor’s antics. A resident of Abakaliki, the state capital, who had been a victim of the alleged tax harassments, but preferred anonymity, said regarding the controversial tax system introduced by Umahi, “what he should do now is to urgently arrest and prosecute those criminals that squeezed money out of people. “But we know he cannot do it because those people are his men; they were acting on his instructions. Ebonyi people know this. They are not deceived.â€? The contentious taxes and levies were said to be part of the reasons a senator from the state and member of the governor’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sonni Ogbuoji, moved to the All Progressives Congress (APC). A youth leader in the state’s chapter of APC, Benjamin Ogbonna, said the governor had created hardship in Ebonyi State. “People are forced to buy ‘environmental basket’ for N8,000, whether they already have or not. “Monthly refuse collection fee is N400 per shop, but collection and disposal never happens,â€? Ogbonna alleged, adding, “These and other numerous oppressive acts of the governor are the reasons for the public outcry that forced the governor to indulge in his recent unsuccessful sham move.â€?

Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ“Ă‹ ÞÙÕÓÞÓ̋ Ă–Ă?Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă˜Ă–Ă™ĂŁĂ? Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă˜

The death has occurred of Mrs. Victoria Egbeyemi OtokitiAleshinloye. She passed on after a short bout with ill-heath on August 20, 2018. She’s aged 76. The late Mrs. OtokitiAleshinloye was a primary school teacher till mid-1970s. She taught at different primary schools in Osogbo, Osun State, and its suburbs. She later moved to Minna, Niger State, to work as school and pharmaceutical store matron at different times. She returned to her home town, Iloro-Ekiti, Ekiti State where she lived until her demise at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti. She is survived by Mr. Segun Edward Otokiti (Senior Assistant Editor, The State magazine, Abuja); Miss Kemi Aleshinloye (a dental nurse); Mrs. Comfort Oyebola Otokiti (daughterin-law); Oluwafunminiyi Israel Otokiti (grandson); an elder sister and two younger siblings; numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. Funeral ceremonies will hold for her on Wednesday, September 19 and Thursday, September 20, 2018 at Iloro-Ekiti and Ipoti-Ekiti respectively.

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ENTREPRENEUR

Okeowo: I’m Passionate about Developing Nigeria Ă‹Ă Ă“Ă?Ă? Ă•Ă?Ă™ĂĄĂ™Ëœ Ă‹ ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ?ĂšĂœĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœËœ Ă“Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽĂ?Ăœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă?Ă? Ă?âĂ?Ă?Ă&#x;ÞÓà Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂšĂœĂ“Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă–Ă–Ëœ Ă‹ ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ×Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂŁ ĂŽĂ?ĂŽĂ“Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ?ĂŽ ÞÙ Ă’Ă?Ă–ĂšĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă—Ă“Ă?ĂœĂ™Ëœ Ă?Ă—Ă‹Ă–Ă–Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă—Ă?ĂŽĂ“Ă&#x;Ă— Ă?Ă?Ă‹Ă–Ă? Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂšĂœĂ“Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă?Ăž Ă&#x;Ăš Ă?ĂžĂœĂ&#x;Ă?ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‘ĂœĂ™ĂĄ ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ë› Ă˜ ÞÒÓĂ? Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ Ă“Ă?ĂĄ åÓÞÒ Peter UzohoËœ Ă•Ă?ÙåÙ ĂŽĂ“Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă’Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ?ĂšĂœĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă– Ă Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă?Ëœ Ă?ĘĽĂ™ĂœĂžĂ? ÞÙ ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă“Ă–ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă?ËÚËĂ?ÓÞã Ă™Ă? Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă“Ă Ă?ĂœĂ?ÓÞã Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽĂ?ĂœĂ‘ĂœĂ‹ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÚËĂ?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ËŞĂ? ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ×Ă?Ă˜ĂžË› âĂ?Ă?ĂœĂšĂžĂ?Ë?

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Sneaker Manufacturing Business. It is deeply satisfying to watch him grow through the process and there are many more students like that. Across the three universities where we’ve trained –UNILAG, LASU and FUNAAB, we’ve trained a total of about 60 students. We are constantly engaging them, tracking their growth and their progress.

ow old is your company, Enterprise Hill? Enterprise Hill is three and half years old. We started January 2015.

How has the journey been over these years? The journey has been super interesting. As I said earlier, we started January 2015 and worked hard at growing organically. Eight months after we started, I got the opportunity to audition for the Next Titan, four months later, I won the show. Then by January 2016 we started afresh with a new focus; reached out to more people, grew our team, invested in ourselves and our business process. The journey has been really great because our turnover has doubled year on year, we’ve also increased our clientele and we’ve worked with over 30 businesses, and the employees of those businesses have gotten job security based on the work that we do. So it has really been an amazing journey of impact, of growth, of revenue, and of business structure building. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt along the way is; if you build business structures, then you’ve prepared your business for sustainable growth. What is the main focus of your company’s service to MSMEs? Essentially, our primary focus is ensuring that the businesses we work with – Micro, Small and Medium scale Enterprises get properly structured, and the way we attack structure is to start by helping them develop strong accounting systems and processes. Thereafter, we move on to other areas of business structure. In addition, we help them ensure tax compliance and also facilitate the separation of their personal finances from their business finances. Why is structure important to this category of businesses? It’s very important because without proper business structure you can’t scale your business. For example, the human body cannot stand without the structure that is within it: the skeletal structure, the muscular structure, all of that. If there is no structure or framework, there is no sustainable foundation to build on. Without structure, any form of pressure (too much client, too much employees, too much business), will harm rather than help the business. A business without a structure is nothing but a hustle. Lots of people run hustles, some others run businesses; the difference between both is that those who run real businesses have proper structures. You have a background in accounting, so how do you also provide legal structure to their businesses? Do you have legal partners for this? What we do is to start with accounting structure because the scores in business is mainly measured in monetary terms, and I feel personally that it’s the most important part of structure. Thereafter, we provide advisory and recommendations on how to improve other areas of their structure; one of which is the legal structure. We partner with other businesses that provide such services so as to give more value to our clients. How do you reach out to these MSMEs for them to know what you do? Generally two things: First, I go to a lot of entrepreneur-related events, and then I try as much as possible to network and meet with other entrepreneurs to tell them what we’re doing. That is very deliberate because entrepreneurs who go to events and seminars and conferences are entrepreneurs that are looking for ways to grow their businesses. So they don’t need to be extensively sold on the need to have proper structures as a means to growth because they’re already looking for growth. The second way which is the biggest way we get clients is by referrals. People that we’ve worked with, that have seen the quality of our work, always refer us to other entrepreneurs.

How affordable is the programme? The programme is very affordable. So for all of these value that they get: they get training on a skill; workplace readiness, value-based leadership, internship opportunities etc., they pay only N10, 000. Like I said, it’s a social enterprise; so we’re only charging these fees to be able to cover our cost and to also run the other social projects that we have in mind.

Okeowo

How do you assess the success of your service to your clients? For those we’ve helped build structures, we know that the structures work because a lot of them are still our clients. So having built the structures, they retain us to help them maintain it; thus making it easy to track their progress and monitor the effects of the strategies we have proposed. From your interaction with these SMEs, what do you see as the major challenge facing them in Nigeria? I feel that lack of proper business structure is one of the biggest challenge SMEs face. The second biggest challenge that SMEs face is finding the right people. While a lot of entrepreneurs might think lack of finance is the major problem, I believe that a well-structured business will attract finance, not chase it. The second problem which for me is a big problem is that entrepreneurs in Nigeria find it hard to get quality human resources to help drive their businesses forward. And this is a problem that was highlighted for me last year when I read the World Economic Forum Human Capital Index, which ranked 130 countries of the world by the quality of their human capital. Our dear nation, Nigeria ranked 114 out of the 130. Ghana that we did ‘Ghana Must Go’ for ranked 72. That brought to the fore the underdevelopment of our massive human capital and created in me a drive to help solve the problem. For the most part, we’re not yet developed as a people. A lot of this problem has to do with our educational system, our culture, our values, and this is a major problem for businesses. It’s the major reason why I created a new company called Competence Africa, which is a social enterprise that is set up with one mission; improving the quality of Africa’s human capital. Our flagship programme is called The CASA programme. The CASA programme is a competence development programme that we administer to undergraduates. Essentially, what we do is, we go to universities across Nigeria, and train undergraduates on how to make use of technology-driven business tools. We are currently training undergraduates in faculties of management and social sciences on how to use cloud-based accounting software. It’s beyond the training on the software tools

though; we also train them on workplace readiness, and value-based leadership. Furthermore, we provide our students with internship opportunities as a means of strengthening their practical knowledge and experience. The CASA program creates value for four major stakeholders. The students get massive improvement in the quality of their person. The makers of the software packages we train on get extended market access. The businesses we post our students to, for internship get top quality, well-trained people, without having to spend much. Then we, Competence Africa, generate revenue to sustain our operations. We also plan on the long run to have other social projects, where we go into communities across Lagos for Competence Development Boot Camps; helping people in Lagos communities to improve the quality of their person. What is the duration of the programme? CASA programme runs over a one month period. We begin with a two-day intensive live training and then follow that up with a three-week case-study application process using real business cases. Thereafter, they go through our workplace readiness and valuebased leadership training, after which they are awarded a certificate of competence and that completes the one month cycle. Thereafter, they get posted on internships. In addition, we host an annual Alumni Boot Camp, where we bring together all the students who went through our programme that year across all universities, for a day of networking, learning, and fun. We tested the model in University of Lagos, Lagos State University, and Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. And now that we have solidified our model, we are working to get into more universities. Our plan is to run the programme twice in a year in each university. How would you assess the interest of the participants? Well, it has been a really, really rewarding experience because the feedback from our students has been really amazing. For instance, one of our students that we trained at the Federal University of Agriculture in Abeokuta is currently on an internship where he handles the account of one of Nigeria’s Indigenous

Looking at the SME space in Nigeria, how do you see the future of this category of businesses in the country? Yes, there is a huge future and huge potential in the space because places with the biggest challenges are places with the biggest opportunities. Take, for instance, we identified that lack of top quality employees as a problem for SMEs; we created a business out of it which is beginning to positively impact on a lot of people. So the SME space in Nigeria has a lot of potential. I think about 85 per cent of Nigerian SMEs are focused on the very basic level of business. They provide value that serves the basic needs of man; that is food, fashion, transportation, and housing. If you look at advanced economies, not only are their basic industries thriving, they are also thinking of businesses in much more advanced sectors: they are thinking of telecoms, robotics, artificial intelligence, tech-driven machinery, alternative energy, space travel, innovation engineering among others. Thus, we need more Nigerian SMEs to go into these advanced sectors and create innovations that will exhibit Nigeria to the world; not only innovations that will start with Nigeria and serve Nigerians. Remember that it’s now a global market, a global competition. So we need to start and grow businesses that will move from Nigeria to the world. That is the reason why I believe there’s a lot of potential in the SME space. Even with the basic businesses that I referenced earlier – fashion, food, transportation, and the likes, there’s still space for growth and advancement because our population is increasing rapidly. Global estimations now suggest Nigeria is going to be the most populous country in the world by 2100. So as our population continuously grows, we need more businesses to serve those basic needs of our population. But at the same time, we need more businesses to create higher level of innovation that will solve not only Nigeria’s problems but, Africa’s and the World’s. How do you combine these businesses and programmes, considering that each of them requires your time and attention? I have been an entrepreneur full time for four years now, and within that time, I have extensively developed my personal capacity. I’ve learnt how to better maximise the use of my time so I prioritize fairly efficiently. Asides Enterprise Hill and Competence Africa, there’s a third venture which is my personal brand. As Davies Okeowo, I train, I mentor, I coach, I give keynotes, I facilitate sessions, I organise capacity building events among other things. So I’ve learnt to manage my time better; I’ve learnt to prioritise better. Most importantly though, what has enabled me to function effectively across all three businesses are the structures I have built across all three businesses. If you run a business without structure, the business completely depends on you. So if you (being the founder, the owner, the CEO) leave the business everything else will crumble. But because I’ve built structures in all of my businesses they can function independently of me. Of course, I’m still there because I want to grow them, we’re still very small, our financial level is still very small, we want to hit numbers in hundreds of millions and billions of dollars.

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METRO

‌Your city life in print

Campaign against domestic violence, child abuse and rape

Alarming Incidence of Sexual, Domestic Violence in Lagos Lagos State recently recorded over 3,000 cases of sexual and domestic violence in eight months, an alarming figure that forebodes a terrible moral character for society. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes

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ach day, the mainstream newspapers and the social media are inundated with tales of abuse; either domestic or sexual. Although these vices have been on the increase, nothing seems to underscore their frightening dimension than the revelation recently by the Lagos State Government that the state recorded over 3,089 cases of sexual and domestic abuse in a little over eight months. As alarming as the figure is, the reality is that it only accounts for the reported cases. A lot more remain unreported. The Report According to the Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT), the figure of 3, 089 represent over 200 per cent increase compared to last year’s figure of 1,044. The unit was created by the state government in 2014 as a response to the increase in incidents of rape, defilement, domestic violence, child abuse, neglect and maltreatment in the state. The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Adeniji Kazeem, made the disclosure at the commemoration of this year’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month, themed, “Securing the Home against Violence: Everyone’s Responsibility.� Kazeem, who is the chairman of the team, said seven people were convicted during the period under review. According to him, from January till August this year alone, the team handled 1,037 cases in the office: 930 domestic violence, 245 child abuse cases, 40 defilement cases, 22 rape cases, and 13 cases of attempt to commit rape and sexual assault by penetration. The commissioner also said 10 cases of sexual assault by penetration and 48 other cases were recorded, adding that they see an average

of 150 new cases monthly. Kazeem said there had also been reported cases through the 6820 USSD platform, which was commissioned last year, to facilitate the swift reporting of incidents of Domestic Violence, Sexual Violence and Child Abuse. Further breaking the statistics down, he said from January till date, DSVRT has received 2, 052 reports via the 6028 short-code. He added that a total of 718 actual cases were reported. Hence, DSVRT has responded to 357 reports of domestic violence, 195 reports of sexual abuse and 166 reports of child abuse, all reported via the 6,820 platform. Kazeem said the team had also given a stronger focus on children who had witnessed intimate partner violence in 2018. He said a total of 1,187 children have been exposed to domestic violence within the home. The attorney-general said the trends from the data revealed a steady increase in men coming forward to report cases of domestic violence. He said the Lagos Public Interest Law Partnership provided free legal assistance to 52 of the survivors of the Domestic Violence, ranging from judicial separation, divorce, custody of children, mediation and settlement. Kazeem, who spoke through SolicitorGeneral and Permanent Secretary, Funmilola Odunlami, said the government had dedicated September of every year to boosting the campaign against sexual violence-related activities and abuses in homes. Policy Formulation for DSVRT Since its establishment, DSVRT has identified protection of children from neglect, abuse, violence and exploitation as an important aspect of societal and governmental responsibility that should be given priority. Led by Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, the DSVRT has

since inception embarked on various initiatives aimed at ensuring that the rights of children are adequately safeguarded. Upon creation, they drafted and facilitated the ratification of the Executive Order on Mandated Reporting in 2014, the first of its kind in Nigeria. In 2016, DSVRT drafted and facilitated the ratification of the Executive Order on Safeguarding and Child Protection, another first of its kind in Nigeria. The Executive Order establishing the Lagos State Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy has proven to be a catalyst for awareness and commitment of all stakeholders, including every member of the community in the protection of children. Child Protection Programmes The Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme was developed to prescribe management systems in place to create and maintain a safe environment for all our children. It also in clear terms, articulates procedures to be adopted when disclosures of abuse are made. According to the team, the Safeguarding and Child Protection policy highlights the importance the administration accords the protection of the lives of all children in the state given that it applies to all state government organisations, public and private schools, childcentred institutions, and orphanages located in the state. Ultimately, the ratification of the Executive Order was to reduce and possibly eliminate incidences of child abuse, establish a culture of early identification and effective intervention of cases. Solution One of the solutions proffered by the DSVRT team was to publish the Safeguarding

the Rights of a Child Workshop (STRAC) book, which seeks to inform and educate children on their rights and responsibilities. It is to strengthen the reading culture of children, empower them and serve as a preventive tool against all forms of abuses against children. The book was produced after consultation with relevant stakeholders, namely, care givers, children, Faith Based Organisations, Civil Society Organisations and Law enforcement agencies. In the past, they had Child Protection Trainings for mandated reporters in the school system, social workers and guidance counsellors. Also using STRAC, children are appropriately sensitised on how to avoid being a victim of sexual abuse, self-defence and how to preserve evidence when physically or sexually assaulted. Not left out were multi-agency trainings to ensure full implementation of the Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme. Carried along in the scheme of things are the primary care givers- parents, through the Parents Association Conference on Safeguarding and Child Protection. According to Vivour-Adeniyi, even as law enforcement, religious institutions, social workers, school administrators, health workers, community leaders and other relevant stakeholders are being trained on how to appropriately respond to child abuse in the state, parents, who should usually be first responders must not be left out as they have a pivotal role to play in preventing and responding to child abuse. She said parents are therefore engaged in a non-judgmental atmosphere, and empowered with information as to what child abuse entails, as well as the ramifications and importance of child’s rights, adding that parents are further informed of the signs to look out for if there is a suspected case of abuse, and steps to take if a child is indeed being abused.

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

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CRIME&SECURITY CRIME SITUATION REPORTS

INTENTIONS FOR THE NEW SARS 1. The Nigerian Police Force is committed to full compliance with the presidential directive on the overhaul of SARS. 2. The outfit will now be known as Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (F-SARS). 3. All SARS Team Nationwide have been collapsed under the new F-SARS with a Commissioner of Police appointed to head F-SARS and report to the Inspector-General of Police through the FIG, Department of Operations. 4. The Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad have been moved from the Force Criminal Intelligence and Investigative Department to the Department of Operations, Force Headquarters, Abuja. 5. F-SARS is now saddled with the responsibility to fight Armed Robbery and Kidnappings related cases only. 6. New F-SARS commanders also appointed to operate in States and Zonal Command and are to be accountable for actions or Personnel under them. Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Edgal Imohimi

Lagos Court Returns Alleged Serial Rapist to Prison for Fresh Oence Stories by Rebecca Ejifoma The Lagos Magistrate Court, Ogba has returned alleged serial rapist and paedophile, Sulaimon Adigun, 30, to Kirikiri Prison, for allegedly raping a JSS1 student for 13 months at the Shomolu area of Lagos. Sulaimon of 43 Olorunkemi Street Bariga, was said to have been arrested in February following the defilement of 10 years old JSS 1 student (names withheld) of Eva Adelaja Girls Secondary School Bariga from 2017 to 2018. According to police report, the suspect, who is a printer by profession, had started defiling the minor when she was in primary six and continued to 2018 February. His arrest was effected after the minor got involved in a ‘Who

touched you?’ children’s game in her secondary school. According to the rules of the game, a baton will be passed on to each player, who will inturn confess if she has been touched before. Accordingly, when the baton got to the victim, the victim was said to have become mute while all her friends urged her to speak. Now, her school counsellor, who watched carefully took the victim to her officer, where she finally divulged that one uncle touches her always. Following the suspect’s arrest, the CPN Coordinator for Shomolu, Toyin Okanlawon, in an interview with THISDAY, lamented the many threats faced in this case. She said: “The family of the suspect has offered me N1.5 million. But

I turned it down. So many factors have been bought just to kill this case. What country are we in for God’s sake they don’t even pity the 10-year-old girl and mother, who is a widow?� According to Okanlawon, after the victim opened up, the counsellor invited the mother and they went to Shomolu hospital, before she was contacted and they moved the case to Mirabel Centre. She said: “The Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corp and I went to make the arrest and took him to Bariga Police Station and from there he was transferred to the gender unit.� He was later charged to court and the case was adjourned to November this year for further hearing.

Lagos Police, CPN Launch Manhunt for Suspect Who DeďŹ led Minor Rebecca Ejifoma The Ikotun Police Division of Lagos State and the Child Protection Network (CPN), have launched a manhunt for Sukunmi Akinsasu, 23, for defiling a five-year-old girl (names withheld), and eloping afterwards. The case, which was reported this September, was said to have occurred on August 13 this year,

when the survivor’s mother left her child in the care of her landlady, to quickly attend to an errand. According to the mother, she later discovered that her daughter was in pains when she tried to bathe her the next day., The Child Protection Network (CPN) Coordinator for IsoloShomolu, Mr. Ebenezer Omejalile, said the perpetrator, Akinsasu, is

presently at large, adding that although the suspect’s family has been threatening the survivor’s family, justice must be served. Omejalile further said the little girl had been taken to Mirabel Centre, where the medical test showed that the perpetrator sexually abused her through both her vagina and anus. He added: “The Family Support Unit (FSU) Ikotun Division is handling the case.�

Ex-police Boss in Court for Impregnating, Aborting Niece’s Baby Rebecca Ejifoma An ex-police officer and Barrister, Monday Joseph Ebowemen, is being prosecuted in court after allegedly defiling his 15-year-old niece and aborting two pregnancies in quick successions at the Ajah area of Lagos State. The perpetrator, who is the teenager’s maternal uncle and the owner of Scorpion Security, was said to have impregnated her twice from age 14 and aborted the fetus. According to the rescuers at Child Protection Network (CPN), the expolice officer, who is a grandfather, has been defiling the minor from age 12 and got her pregnant twice.

“And today, some elders from his hometown have arrived in Lagos to see how they can settle he criminal offence of child defilement and abortions out of court. “The child is currently in an undisclosed orphanage in the state. Her mother, Mrs. Mary Ebowemen, warned her not to show up at the house if she appears in court for the hearing,� CPN told THISDAY. Nigerian Man Cries for Justice after Soldier Stabs Younger Brother Rebecca Ejifoma A Nigerian man is currently calling for justice after he accused a soldier identified as Daniel Gbenga Martins,

of stabbing his younger brother on the neck and face in Lagos and running away. The soldier, attached to Ojo barracks in Ojo area of Lagos, was said to broken a bottle and stabbed the civilian over some money issue with another civilian. According to the complainant, who said mother had been crying over this situation, “I’m grateful to God my younger brother is still alive. My mum won’t stop crying�. He, therefore, vowed that the case would not be swept under anywhere, adding that he would follow it to a logical conclusion.

7. A new Standard Operational Guidelines and Procedures and Code of Conduct for all F-SARS personnel to ensure that the operations of F-SARS is in strict adherence to the rule of law and with due regards to International Hunan rights and constitutionally generated rights of citizens; has been unveiled and being enforced in totality. 8. A committee of senior police officers, Technical Consultants Human Rights/Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has been set up to review and monitor the activities of F-SARS under new arrangement with the use of Custody, Records Management System. 9. Human Rights Desk Officers for F-SARS in every state to take complaints from the public and forward same to Force Headquarters. The officer will be answerable TP the Commissioner of Police, F-SARS at the Force Headquarters and not Commander F-SARS in the states. 10. Henceforth, F-SARS personnel will not perform Stop and Search duties except on distress calls to respond to armed robbery and kidnapping offences only, and they must appear in their police uniform with full identification pending the launch of new F-SARS uniform with identity name tag by the Inspector-General of Police for all F-SARS personnel throughout the country. 11. Periodic training program/medical and psychological screening in collaboration with some Civil Society 12. Members of the public who have Amy complaints in the past or present violation of their rights by any SARS personnel anywhere in the country are to report via the following channels for investigation: I. DIG, Department of Operations: 08037025670 II. IGP X-SQAUD: 09026900729, 08078662130, 08174041000 – CALLS, 09032278905 – SMS, 09035621377 -WhatsApp Email: integritysquare@gmail.com III. IGP Monitoring Unit: igpmonotoringabj@yahoo.com, 08036242591 IV. Commissioner of Police, F-SARS: 08033476852 V. FORCE PUBLIC COMPLAINT BUREAU: 07056792065 Calls/SMS/ WhatsApp 08088450152 Calls/SMS/WhatsApp email: bailisfree@ gmail.com, pressforabuja@gmail.com, Twitter @PoliceNG, www. Facebook.com/ngpolice VI. PUBLIC COMPLAINT RAPID RESPONSE UNIT (PCRRU) 08057000001 - calls only. 08057000002 – calls only. 08057000003 – SMS and WhatsApp only. Twitter: @PoliceNG_PCRRU, www.Facebook. com/policePCRRU, NGOs/CSOs

SECURITY TIPS (part 1)

r#BOL "MFSU JT OP MPOHFS FWJEFODF PG QBZNFOU 8JUI UIF BEWBODFE cyber fraud, criminals now easily generate empty bank alerts. r ,OPX ZPVS OFJHICPVST :PV NVTU TUSJWF UP LOPX OPU POMZ UIF QFSTPO living in same compound but in your surrounding environment. Find out their means of livelihood, as every strange face must be probed. r -BOEMPSET TIPVME DPOEVDU CBDLHSPVOE DIFDLT PO BMM UIFJS QSPTQFDtive tenants. They should equally create avenues for meeting with their tenants from time to time. r $PNNVOJUZ MFBEFST XPSLJOH JO DPOKVODUJPO XJUI UIF MPDBM QPMJDF are encouraged to form neighbourhood associations and periodically meet to appraise security situation in their areas.

CONTACTS OF POLICE PROs (part 1) r $41 +*.0) .04)00% '03$& 16#-*$ 3&-"5*0/4 0''*$&3 FHQ ABUJA08032569029 jimohjimoh2000@yahoo.compressforabuja@ yahoo.compressforabuja@gmail.com r 41 "%&/*3"/ "3&.6 %&165: '03$& 16#-*$ 3&-"5*0/SOFFICER FHQ ABUJA08034727873as.adeniram@yahoo.com r 41 *#& $)6,86%* 0 $ 16#-*$ $0.1-"*/ #63&"6 ')2 ABUJA08123823206 Supolchuks@yahoo.com r %41 4".#0 . 40,050 ;0/& ,"/0 [PODPNmosone@yahoo.comsmsokotob@yahoo.com r "41 #&+".*/ )6:*/%&:* ;0/& -"(04 r 41 ".*/6 )".."/ ;0/& :0-" "JH[POF ZPMB! gmail.combarkehammanj@gmail.com Source: Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Department

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LIFE

A New Humanitarian President for Rotary The Rotary Club of Festac Central, District 9110, Nigeria, recently inducted its sixth president, Rotarian Fati Michael Rotimi, a man widely described as caring. Sunday Ehigiator reports

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he Rotary Club of Festac Central, District 9110, Nigeria, inducted its sixth president, Rotarian Fati Michael Rotimi, recently. The club hosted several of its members, directors, council of past presidents, well-wishers and families, observers and new members. To kick-off the investiture, the outgone president of the club, Rotarian Nasiru Hamza, took to the podium, after which the welcome address was read by the Presidential Installation Committee Chairman, Rotarian Chucks Ozigbo. In his address, Ozigbo said, “I feel privileged and indeed excited seeing the faces of great men and women gathered here today for the investiture of Rotarian Michael Rotimi Fati as the President of the Rotary Club of Festac Central for the Rotary year. “The Rotary is an international organisation of over 1.2 million men and women of diverse professional fields, vocations, nationals, races, tribes, religions and many others. Therefore, it is trite to say that rotary thrives in diversity, and that has remained our key pillar of strength. Every week, all over the world, Rotarians come together for an hour to discuss how to further our mission of ‘doing good and rendering service to humanity in our various communities’ and this has gone for over a century. “We are here today on one hand for the installation of a distinguished inspirational Rotarian as the club president, on the other hand, for fund raising. Fund raising is an inevitable and natural course for all our activities and indeed a second reason for our gathering here today. It is therefore in consonance with the modus-operandi of Rotary world over to use auspicious occasions like this, to raise funds to be used to catalyse our various service projects and activities through the Inspiration Rotary year. Obviously, we the club members alone cannot self-fund these anticipated projects, hence the call for your support. “Everyone is appealed to show us some love and support through materials, and financial donations to enable the club execute its project and indeed realise the goals set out for the Rotary year. While this is a formal Rotary event, we have gathered here together in an atmosphere of camaraderie and conviviality, let us therefore, make merry, have fun, savor the spirit of Rotary and in the process, and do well to ensure you leave a parting gift to humanity.� Valedictory Remarks In his valedictory speech, the outgone president advised his successor and his executive committee members to uphold the status quo of the club by judiciously carrying out all activities required of them, in fairness and dedication to the club; as it is the only benchmark through which they can strive. He also appealed to every other member of the club to give them their maximum support needed in piloting the affairs of the club and never to sway in their loyalty to the club and humanity. Inaugural Address Delivering his inaugural speech, the newly installed president said, “Everyone knows that as it is the tradition in Rotary, every new Rotary year installs a new club president and directors and today, our esteemed club; Rotary club of

L-R: Odivwri with Hamza at the event

Festac central installs her sixth club president in person of my humble self, standing before you. Without much ado, I want to sincerely appreciate members of this great club for the trust bestowed on me to lead this great and unique family. “Since I joined the club some few years back, I have been encouraged by the way Rotary is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the ultimate good reaches all humans thereby upholding world peace. This indeed is a call to service and with all humility, I promise to do my best to move our club to a greater height. “However, I appeal for your unalloyed support as I would not be able to do it without you. I look forward to very interesting club’s meetings, which promises to be firm and consistent in content. I want to appreciate my family; my beautiful wife, Mrs. Kemi Fati and my adorable twin boys, Treasure and Favour for their loving support and with which permission I am in rotary today. “Fellow Rotarians present here, I recognise you all. Our friends and friends of the Rotary who have come to support this noble course, you are greatly welcome. Most particularly, I appreciate the charter president of our club CP Tonia Agugoesi, whose dream birthed this unique and her limitless support. My mentor, our DGSR, permanent friend and mother of our dear club AG Grace Akpoveta, I appreciate you ma. Our Assistant Governor, Rotarian Gabriel Amalu, all inspiration presidents present, all district officers in attendance, due honour to you all. Let’s continue to be the inspiration!� The other newly installed directors of the club included Chair Club Admin, Dorothy Edo; Chair Club Membership, Eucharia Ndudirim; Service Project Chair, Clifford Osagie; Rotary Foundation Chair, Emma Okoro; Public Relations Chair, Tonia Agugoesi; Chair New Generation, Shade Adara; Family Rotary Chair, Vera Olawoye ; Bulletin Editor, Dolapo Bankole Olawoye; Chair Installation/DG Visit, Chucks Ozigbo; President Elect,

Ben Sawyer; Chair Conferences/Convention, Antonia Agugoesi; Chair History and Achieves and Club Trainer, and Modupe Flora Ogunsanya – Sergent–at–Arms. Character Delivering his speech titled “Character As Premium Capital�, the guest speaker, Mr. Eddy Odivwri, columnist with THISDAY Newspaper said, “character is so essential in life as it is about one of the largest determinant of how far a man or woman goes in life. It is one attribute that affects every career, profession, trade; practice etc. either in private or public space. “You have heard it before that intelligence will and can take you to the top, but it is character that will keep or sustain you there. It is such an important attribute that should distinctly distinguish human beings from other lower creatures. If a goat or a cow does not have character, who cares? But a man or woman without character soon runs into problems and is a danger to the rest of the society. “I dare say that the failures of several governments including that of Nigeria are largely due to the absence of character among those who take crucial and strategic decisions that affect others. All the talks and crusade on corruption and the fitful fight against it would have all been needless if all those oaths to govern us have appreciable level of requisite character. “Imagine that even 50 per cent of the nation’s budget is ever used to develop the nation, and let the remaining 50 per cent go under the table, Nigeria would have long left the left the league of underdeveloped nations. What is your reaction anytime you feel conned or cheated either in the service you receive or the products you buy? Do you feel cheerful or awful? Are you one of them who would go sourcing examination question papers for your child so he/she could score high grades and marks in public examination, so you can

boast and brag about it? How far can you go? “When everything you do is denominated in monetary and immediate gratification, where is your character? Are you the one that will do nothing helpful to human being except it has instant monetary reward? I think this is where the selflessness of Rotarians must be celebrated. I know and see how they often make very remarkable sacrifices for the good of society. “They may not be the richest in society, but they have one of the richest hearts; the heart that thinks for others, the heart that sacrifices for the good of others, the catholic heart of always seeking a better world. Yes, the temptation is often high to ply the regular route. But it is the strength of your character that will make you resist such pervasive pressure to dare to be different. This has nothing to do with region or religion. “In all, character is surely one of the prized attributes God gave man. While many fail to activate their character modes sufficiently, others do and that is what makes all the difference. Which group are you? The regular or exceptional?� The high points of the occasion were the dance presentations of some special children living with ‘Down Syndrome’ whose school is under the beneficiaries of the rotary club and also the presentation of award to Odivwri, and commendation awards to some Rotarians for their outstanding contribution to humanity. Projects Speaking to journalists after the event about the lined-up project for his dispensation, the president said, “like we have been doing in the past, number one, the fibroid surgeries for 10 indigent women at N300,000 each. Its not meant for people that can afford it, but people are out there suffering from it with no money to even take hospital card. Fortunately, we have a foundation that we are collaborating with. We have done almost eight, and you know the cost of fibroid surgeries. We also have empowerment programmes, our DG would be visiting us a couple of weeks from now, and we have pencilled down about five people, that we want to help as well. You know, N50, 000 can really go a long way to help small scale business individuals who are hawking on the street. “We also have an on-going project to donate hospital equipment to the Child and Maternal Hospital in Festac, worth N2million. Comprehensive medical check-ups for prostate, diabetes, high blood pressure, malaria and free glasses, worth N2million and drilling and installation of four boreholes at N350, 000 each.� When asked about the means of selecting beneficiaries, he said, “You can refer anybody to us; we don’t even have anybody, that is why it is in the programme. Our convening point is always here at Golden Tulip Hotel in Festac. Anybody can approach us and say you have someone you think we should help in your neighbourhood or street that the Rotary can help to empower.�

TRIBUTE

Emily Nwosu: Indeed Heaven Gained an Angel In prosperity, our friends know us, in adversity, we know our friends� John Churton Collins British Literary Critic (March 1848 - September 1908). By CSP Ken Nwosu eaven indeed gained an angel when my dear mother, Mrs. Emily Ada Nwosu, (nee Onumaegbu), Justice of Peace (JP), exited this earthly plane on Sunday, May 13, 2018. She was 71 years old. Born on April 24, 1947 to the Onumaegbu family, mama was a teacher of great repute with specialty in early child education. She taught and mentored many generations in an illustrious career that spanned over 35 years; yours truly inclusive. She was a devout Christian, consummate community leader and great mobiliser of women, men and resources for worthy causes and won virtually all available award, honour and recognition those vocations have on offer. She was a great influence and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. To honour her in advancement of her peaceful

H

eternal rest, her funeral was slated for Saturday, July 28, 2018 at St John’s Church (Anglican Communion) Itaja na Amuzu Parish, Olokoro, Umuahia South LGA, Abia State by 11am. On that appointed day, we were joined by family, friends, associates and well wishers when the mortal remains of my dear mother was committed to Mother Earth for final journey into the Pearly Gates. Born Humble but attained greatness in her own right by dint of hard work, she left in a fanfare of glory after blazing many trails considering her trajectory. It was a roll call as people from diverse walks of life thronged into our modest home to pay obeisance to the life and times of our Matriarch and we have all of you friends and associates to thank for the honour done to our Mum. In life, she loomed large within her circles; in death, she loomed even larger as tributes poured in from numerous quarters including the Zenith of power in Nigeria. Those who never knew or met her wrote moving prose, poetry, dirge and epitaphs because through us her kids, they saw her and crafted who she might have been.

L-R: Children of the deceased- Mrs. Clarine Chibunna Nwosu-Ugbaja, CSP Ken Nwosu, Temple Tochukwu Nwosu and DSP Kingsley Uchenna Nwosu, at the funeral service of their late mother Mrs. Emily Nwosu

It was touching to see Mama depart but we are comforted by her teachings, her lifestyle, her pedigree and the name she left behind. Fare the well, Mama. She is sorely missed by her three sons; Engr. Temple Tochukwu Nwosu (MNSE, COREN),

CSP Kenneth Nwosu, DSP Uchenna Kingsley Nwosu and daughter; Mrs. Clarine Chibunna Nwosu-Ugbaja and 10 grandkids and a host of other relatives. t 4JS ,FO /XPTV ,4$ B $IJFG 4VQFSJOUFOEFOU PG 1PMJDF XSPUF JO GSPN "CVKB

T H I S D AY Ëž SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

42

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

CBN Cautions BDCs against Money Laundering Nume Ekeghe The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has advised Bureau De Change (BDC) operators in the country not to be involved in illegal activities ahead of the 2019 elections. The central bank also threatened to sanction and revoke licences of BDCs who do not abide by all its regulations. The Deputy Governor, Financial System Stability, CBN, Aisha Ahmad, said this at a sensitisation forum for BDC operators organised by Travelex Nigeria Limited in Lagos yesterday. Ahmad, who was represented by the Head, BDC Coordinating Group at the Other Financial Institutions Department (OFIs) of the CBN, Mr. Mustapha Haruna Bala, urged the participants to report suspicious transactions

to the central bank. Ahmad said: “There is an issue of record keeping. Our oversight experience has shown that a number of BDCs or some, don’t keep proper records and this has serious implication and we won’t take this likely. “We don’t want a sub-sector which is very critical, the weakest link as we move forward to the 2019 elections. “The BDC sub-sector is a critical segment of the foreign exchange market which has served as veritable tool for contemporary FX Change rate management in Nigeria. “The CBN will continue to play its statutory and interventionist role to promote the orderly growth, development and sustainability of the sector through effective supervision and robust enforcement of compliance with applicable extant laws and

regulations. “In line with its zero-tolerance policy, the CBN will continue to impose appropriate sanctions against regulatory breaches including the revocation of the licenses of errant BDCs.� She further said: “We would also call on the relevant security agencies to check on the activities of the street traders who are giving the sub-sector a bad image because most of the money laundering can be attributed to these illegal operators.� She called for robust regulatory enforcement, application of sanctions, continuous training and capacity building for BDC operators. “There is need for more automation to enhance supervisory efficiency and effectiveness and a need to leverage technology and best practices in BDC operations,� she added.

PenCom Explains Suspension of Recruitment Exercise Ebere Nwoji The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has explained reasons for the suspension of a recruitment exercise it conducted last year, saying irregularities in conduct of the exercise was why it dropped 41 employees recruited after the exercise. The Acting Director-General, Mrs. Aisha Dahir-Umar, who spoke with journalists in Lagos, said the exercise which was scheduled to resume on May 2 last year, was suspended due to anomalies and irregularities discovered in the process. She stated that 41 candidates had been given employment letters after an interview which was cancelled over some irregularities. She noted that the Federal Character Commission (FCC) directed the Commission to suspend the recruitment after observing the irregularities in

the process. “Half of the candidates were asked to resume on May 1, 2017 and the rest in June of the same year. The Federal Character Commission (FCC) gave certificate of “no objection� for the interview. “The next step was for the Commission to request for Certificate of Compliance to give out letters of employment following the interview. While that was being awaited, the executive of PenCom was sacked. The DG as at the time quickly distributed the letters, without the certificate from FCC. “Meanwhile, the FCC in its letter authorising the interview had given two conditions. That the Commission must collect the required certificate before giving out employment letters and must use that recruitment to balance the lopsidedness of staffing in the Commission. “When I resumed in April

last year, our Human Relations department gave me a letter from the FCC suspending the resumption of those recruited. Based on that letter, I asked HR to meet with the FCC to find a way forward. “The FCC advised that the exercise be suspended, that those affected should be informed and that they should be considered in subsequent recruitment exercises. “Every recommendation was followed to the later. We did try to get the National Assembly House Committee on Federal Character to reconsider its stand through the House Committee on Pension and the Senate Committee on Establishment, but both failed. “Instead, a letter of reminder was sent to us on the suspension. The Commission was also invited and warned not to accommodate the new recruits due to irregularities of the exercise,� she explained.

L-R: Executive Director, Business Development, Nigeria Export-lmport Bank (NEXIM), Stella Okotete; Founder, NESH, Emeka Ugwu-Oju; DG/Chief Executive, Nigeria National Medicine Development Agency, Federal Ministry of Science & Technology, Samuel Etatuvie and Representative of the Executive Secretary of Nigeria Content Development Management Board, Angela Okoye, at the third edition of NESHNXT 2018 conference held in Lagos‌recently ƽDŽNJƿÇ?lj DžƟLJƟ

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS 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)

Shareholders of Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc (FMN) recently approved the N2.032 billion dividend for the financial year ended March 31, 2018, that was recommended by directors of the company. The dividend translates to N1 per every 50 kobo ordinary shares owned by shareholders. The shareholders, who spoke at the 58th annual general meeting of the company in Lagos, noted that the firm’s performance in spite of the challenging operating environment, stood out as example for other companies to emulate. One of the shareholders of the company, Mrs. Funke Augustine, urged the company to continue to deliver good returns to investors. Addressing shareholders at the meeting. the Chairman, FMN, Mr. John Coumantaros, said in spite of the challenging socioeconomic and tough business environment, Flour Mills posted a strong performance which was in line with its strategy to continuously create value for stakeholders. The company’s revenue grew

by four per cent to reach N389 billion, while profit before tax was 14 billion, a 29 per cent increase from N10 billion recorded last financial year. Profit after tax however fell by six per cent to N9.2 billion, primarily due to the effect of deferred tax adjustment following the company’s exit from pioneer status. Also, the Group recorded revenue of N542 billion, which represented an a 3.5 per cent growth year-on-year. This was achieved through a combination of resilience in the face of a challenging environment, volume growth and product mix from our food and agro-allied businesses. “The results are a clear indication that our efforts to continually push for improved efficiency and synergy in the Group are yielding the expected results,� Coumantaros said. He added: “We have continued to consolidate our position, with a firm commitment to lead in this space while aligning with the agricultural promotion policies in the federal and state level where we operate. “We are critically looking into

our investments in our backward integration initiatives and have confirmed our commitments towards future profitable growth by recapitalising various subsidiaries. “We are also impairing at company level, part of our investment in Kaboji Farm, our first agricultural investment which has now become our center of excellence for seed and best agricultural practices in maize and soybean. “In an effort to strengthen the company’s capital base, deleverage our balance sheet, and support our working capital needs, we embarked on, and have completed a Rights Issue program during the past months. “With the successful completion of the Rights Issue program, we have now positioned the company to exploit valueaccretive opportunities, whilst giving greater operational and financial flexibility to ensure business growth and continuity.� According to him, the Rights Issue was oversubscribed, which the net proceeds of approximately N39.2 billion in March 2018 would significantly impact on the company’s financials and improve the capital structure.

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

Shareholders Approve Flour Mills’Dividend Pay-out Oluchi Chibuzor

(MILLION NAIRA)

MARCH 2018

Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month Inter-Bank Call Rate

March 2018 15.16

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

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

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

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 5, 2018

The price of OPEC basket of ďŹ fteen crudes stood at $75.18 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $76.32 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), Djeno (Congo), Oriente (Ecuador), ZaďŹ ro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela) SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

43

T H I S D AY ˾ SEPTEMBER 7 , 2018

MARKET NEWS

All-Share Index Falls Further by 0.88 % as Market Remains Bearish Goddy Egene The stock market depreciated further yesterday as investors continued with sell pressure. Consequently, the Nigerian Stock Exchange All-Share Index (NSE ASI) fell 0.88 per cent to close at 34,110.22, while market capitalisation ended lower at N12.45 trillion. Yesterday’s decline was majorly caused by intense sell pressure in banking and consumer goods large-cap

counters. Specifically, some of the leading price losers were GTBank Plc, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc, Nigerian Breweries Plc and Zenith Bank Plc. Stanbic IBTC Holdings shed 4.2 per cent on a day its banking subsidiary, Stanbic IBTC Bank reported to the NSE that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had deducted the sum of N1.886 billion from its account. The N1.886 billion is the

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R

DEALS

fine the apex bank imposed on Stanbic IBTC Bank, along with three other banks for illegally assisting MTN Communications Nigeria to repatriate $8.134 billion between 2007 and 2015. However, in a letter dated 06 September, 2018 to NSE, Stanbic IBTC Bank, reiterated its position that it has not breached any extant laws relating to Certificates of Capital Importation (CCI) executed on behalf of MTN. “Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC

S E C U R I T I E S

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

as well as our banking subsidiary maintain our position on this matter, which is the fact that the Bank has done nothing illegal and accordingly the Bank will continue to provide CBN with documents and details in support of our contention that our actions in relation to these transactions were not illegal,” the bank said, reassuring stakeholders that the current situation would not affect the seamless transactions with the bank.

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

Despite, the foregoing the shares of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc closed as the eight highest price loser, falling from N47.00 to N45.00 per share. However, WAPIC Insurance Plc led the price losers’s table with 10 per cent, trailed by Eterna Plc with 9.4 per cent. Law Union & Rock Insurance Plc shed 9.0 per cent, just as Standard Alliance Insurance Plc went down by 8.5 per cent. Unilever Nigeria Plc, AIICO Insurance Plc and

O F

Guaranty Trust Bank Plc depreciated by 6.4 per cent, 5.5 per cent and 4.6 per cent respectively. On the positive side, A.G Leventis Nigeria Plc led the price gainers with 10 per cent, trailed by Fidson Healthcare Plc with 9.0 per cent. Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc chalked up 8.7 per cent, just as Royal Exchange Plc added 8.3 per cent. Continental Reinsurance Plc and LASACO Assurance Plc garnered 6.6 per cent and 6.4 per cent order.

3 / 0 9 / 2 0 1 8 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

˾ FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

44

Friday, September 7, 2018

Thisday Afrinvest 40 Index Sheds 1.8% Yesterday, Thursday 6th September 2018, the dŚŝƐĚĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ /ŶĚĞdž ĨĞůů ϭ͘ϴϰй ƚŽ ƐĞƩůĞ Ăƚ 1,374.57 points while YTD loss stood at -10.9%. GUARANTY (-4.6%), ZENITH (-2.1%) and NIGERIAN BREWERIES (-0.5%) - ĐƵŵƵůĂƟǀĞůLJ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƟŶŐ ĨŽƌ 39.6% of the index — were the major drivers of its ŶĞŐĂƟǀĞ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ͘

Sell Pressures Weigh on Local Bourse͙ ASI down 88bps Sell pressures in GUARANTY (-4.6%), STANBIC (4.3%) and UNILEVER (-ϲ͘ϰйͿ ǁĞŝŐŚĞĚ ŽŶ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ĚƌĂŐŐŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ůů ^ŚĂƌĞ /ŶĚĞdž ; ^/Ϳ 88bps lower to 34,110.22 points. As a result, YTD loss contracted further to -10.8% while N111.0bn ǁĂƐ ǁŝƉĞĚ Žī ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝnjĂƟŽŶ ;ĐƵƌƌĞŶƚ ǀĂůƵĞ – EϭϮ͘ϱƚŶͿ͘ /Ŷ ƚŚĞ ƐĂŵĞ ǀĞŝŶ͕ ĂĐƟǀŝƚLJ ůĞǀĞů ĨĞůů ĂƐ volume and value traded slid 17.9% and 4.2% to ϭϲϰ͘ϱŵ ƵŶŝƚƐ ĂŶĚ EϮ͘ϭďŶ ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ͘ dŚĞ ƚŽƉ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ďLJ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ǁĞƌĞ GUARANTY (23.9m), UBA (15.2m) and SKYE (11.7m) while GUARANTY (N860.2m), STANBIC (N236.2) and ZENITH (N210.1m) led by value.

EĞŐĂƟǀĞ ^ĞĐƚŽƌ WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ĐƌŽƐƐ ƐĞĐƚŽƌƐ ǁĞ ƚƌĂĐŬ͕ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ǁĂƐ ŶĞŐĂƟǀĞ ĂƐ ϯ ŽĨ ϱ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ĐůŽƐĞĚ ƐŽƵƚŚǁĂƌĚƐ͘ dŚĞ ĂŶŬŝŶŐ and Consumer Goods indices shed 2.5% and 1.1% ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞůů-ŽīƐ ŝŶ GUARANTY (4.6%), ZENITH (-2.1%) UNILEVER (-6.4%) and INTBREW (-3.0%). Similarly, losses in WAPIC (10.0%) and AIICO (-ϱ͘ϲйͿ ĚƌĂŐŐĞĚ ƚŚĞ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ŝŶĚĞdž Ϭ͘Ϯй ůŽǁĞƌ͘ KŶ ƚŚĞ ŇŝƉ ƐŝĚĞ͕ ƚŚĞ /ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů 'ŽŽĚƐ ĂŶĚ Kŝů Θ 'ĂƐ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ŐĂŝŶĞĚ͕ ƌŝƐŝŶŐ Ϭ͘ϰй ĂŶĚ Ϭ͘ϭй ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ DANGCEM (-0.5%), WAPCO (-0.4%) and FORTE (5.0%).

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index

Current Price

Ticker

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40

Price Price Previous Current Change Change Price Weightin YTD Index to Change g Date

1,374.57

-1.84%

1

Guaranty Trust Bank PLC

34.95

-4.6%

2

Zenith Bank PLC

21.00

-2.1%

3

Nigerian Brew eries PLC

93.00

4

Nestle Nigeria PLC

1,500.00

5

Dangote Cement PLC

6

FBN Holdings Plc

ROE

ROA

P/E

P/BV

-10.9%

37.5%

19.9%

6.6%

6.1x

0.8x

20.6%

-14.2%

-13.8%

35.8%

5.4%

5.3x

2.1x

7.5%

18.7%

12.0%

-18.1%

-19.0%

25.6%

3.6%

3.6x

0.9x

13.1%

27.9%

-0.5%

7.0%

-31.1%

-31.1%

15.9%

n

26.7x

4.3x

4.4%

3.7%

0.0%

8.7%

-3.6%

-3.6%

92.0%

23.0%

30.8x

26.7x

3.0%

3.2%

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ĂƐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ ;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ƌĂƟŽͿ ƐŽŌĞŶĞĚ ƚŽ Ϭ͘ϲdž ĨƌŽŵ Ϭ͘ϴdž ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ LJĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ ĂƐ ϭϵ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ĂŐĂŝŶƐƚ 31 that declined. The best performers were AGLEVENT (+10.0%), FIDSON (+9.1%) and SOVRENINS (+8.7%) while WAPIC (-10.0%), ETERNA (-9.4%) and LAWUNION (-9.1%) were the worst performers for the day. Due to the absence of ƉŽƐŝƟǀĞ ĚƌŝǀĞƌƐ͕ ǁĞ ŵĂŝŶƚĂŝŶ ŽƵƌ ďĞĂƌŝƐŚ ŽƵƚůŽŽŬ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŶĞĂƌ ƚĞƌŵ͘

0.4%

6.8%

-2.6%

-2.6%

21.7%

9.9%

22.9x

5.3x

4.8%

4.4%

9.00

0.0%

6.3%

2.3%

2.4%

7.4%

0.9%

5.9x

0.5x

2.8%

17.0%

Access Bank PLC

9.05

-1.6%

4.4%

-13.4%

-14.6%

13.3%

1.6%

4.2x

0.6x

7.2%

24.1%

8

United Bank for Africa PLC

7.90

-1.3%

3.8%

-23.3%

-24.1%

16.2%

1.9%

3.5x

0.6x

10.6%

28.4%

19.50

-0.3%

4.2%

14.7%

19.9%

12.2%

1.0%

6.3x

0.8x

603.00

0.0%

3.3%

-3.7%

-3.7%

25.0%

14.6%

2.8x

0.6x

3.0%

36.0% 14.3%

9

Ecobank Transnational Inc

10

SEPLAT Petroleum Development C

15.8%

11

Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC

45.00

-4.3%

3.5%

8.4%

10.0%

35.4%

4.9%

7.0x

2.2x

2.2%

12

Unilever Nigeria PLC

46.80

-6.4%

3.3%

14.1%

16.4%

20.4%

8.7%

25.9x

3.4x

1.1%

3.9%

13

Guinness Nigeria PLC

88.00

-2.2%

2.4%

-6.4%

-6.4%

15.4%

6.1%

26.2x

2.2x

2.1%

3.8%

14

Lafarge Africa PLC

23.15

0.4%

1.0%

-48.4%

-48.4%

-54.0%

-10.1%

1.4x

6.5%

-38.9%

15

Fidelity Bank PLC

1.71

-0.6%

1.0%

-30.5%

-33.7%

10.4%

1.4%

1.3x

0.3x

6.4%

16

Oando PLC

5.35

0.9%

1.3%

-10.7%

-10.7%

10.3%

1.5%

4.7x

0.4x

17

Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC

15.10

0.0%

1.0%

-24.5%

-25.8%

41.5%

18.1%

5.1x

1.8x

8.3%

19.6%

18

Okomu Oil Palm PLC

79.90

0.0%

1.4%

18.0%

18.0%

35.8%

26.6%

8.6x

2.8x

3.8%

11.6%

19

International Brew eries PLC

32.00

-3.0%

0.5%

-41.3%

-41.8%

24.6%

7.4%

33.5x

7.6x

21.50

1.4%

0.5%

-25.9%

-25.9%

9.8%

2.9%

5.3x

0.6x

4.7%

18.9%

1.22

-3.2%

0.5%

-16.4%

-17.6%

12.9%

2.8%

6.3x

0.8x

1.6%

15.9%

19.7x

0.5x

5.9%

74.4% 21.2%

3.0%

20

Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC

21

Transnational Corp of Nigeria

22

UAC of Nigeria PLC

11.00

-1.8%

0.4%

-34.9%

-34.9%

1.4%

0.6%

23

Diamond Bank PLC

1.23

-2.4%

0.5%

-18.0%

-21.7%

-7.2%

-0.9%

-17.5%

-17.5%

33.1%

6.9%

7.1x

2.2x

9.0%

14.1%

13.9%

6.7%

1.0%

3.0x

0.2x

5.6%

33.8%

6.2x

2.2x

4.5%

16.3%

24

Total Nigeria PLC

25

FCMB Group Plc

189.70

0.0%

0.5%

1.80

-3.2%

0.6%

0.1x

5.1% -70.3%

26

11 PLC

179.00

-0.6%

0.5%

-8.0%

-8.0%

40.2%

16.0%

27

Forte Oil PLC

21.00

5.0%

0.3%

-51.7%

-50.0%

29.7%

3.0%

28

PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC

13.50

2.7%

0.3%

-34.5%

-36.2%

10.7%

5.0%

12.8x

1.3x

1.1%

7.8%

29

Cadbury Nigeria PLC

10.05

0.0%

0.3%

-35.9%

-35.6%

5.9%

2.2%

29.8x

1.7x

1.6%

3.4%

30

Presco PLC

60.05

0.0%

0.4%

-12.3%

-12.3%

3.3%

39.7%

31

NASCON Allied Industries PLC

20.00

0.0%

0.4%

8.1%

4.1%

62.4%

20.6%

9.5x

5.4x

7.5%

10.5%

0.0%

0.3%

-10.0%

-10.0%

0.8x

7.8%

1.6x

UPDC Real Estate Investment Tr

9.00

33

Union Bank of Nigeria PLC

5.85

0.0%

0.3%

-25.0%

-22.1%

34

Julius Berger Nigeria PLC

25.00

0.0%

0.3%

-10.7%

-10.7%

17.3%

9.3x

0.6x

1.8%

6.9x

1.1x

3.8x

35

Sterling Bank PLC

1.45

0.0%

0.4%

34.3%

28.3%

11.0%

1.1%

36

Dangote Flour Mills Plc

7.85

-1.3%

0.2%

-35.4%

-35.4%

0.0%

0.0%

37

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Niger

13.10

0.0%

0.2%

-39.4%

-39.4%

6.5%

3.6%

38

Chemical and Allied Products P

28.35

0.0%

0.2%

-16.6%

-20.6%

66.2%

30.2%

39

Beta Glass PLC

78.00

0.0%

0.2%

52.0%

52.0%

17.7%

11.5%

9.5x

40

Transcorp Hotels Plc

6.75

0.0%

0.1%

-6.4%

-6.4%

5.3%

2.9%

18.8x

T o p 10 G a i n e r s T ic k er

T o p 10

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

A GLEVEN T

0.44

10.0%

F ID SON

6.00

9.1%

SOVR EN IN S

0.25

8.7%

R OYA LEX

0.26

8.3%

UN IT YB N K

0.79

6.8%

C ON T IN SUR E

1.60

6.7%

LA SA C O

0.33

FO R ED ST A R EX LIN KA SSUR E

T ra de s

10.7% 4.4%

14.4% 26.5%

0.4x

1.4%

1.0x

2.5%

18.8x

1.8x

54.0%

5.3%

13.2x

8.9x

7.0%

7.5%

1.6x

1.4%

10.6%

0.9x

1.8%

5.3%

by V o lum e

Vo lum e

P ric e C hg %

GUA R A N T Y

23.9

-4.6%

UB A

1 5.2

-1 .3%

SKYEB A N K

1 1 .7

1 .9%

J A IZ B A N K

1 1 .1

-1 .9%

1 0.9

0.0%

FB NH Z EN IT H B A N K

9.9

-2.1 %

6.5%

T R A N SC OR P

8.2

-3.2%

21.00

5.0%

F ID ELIT YB K

6.7

-0.6%

5.45

4.8%

SOVR EN IN S

6.3

8.7%

0.70

2.9%

D IA M ON D B N K

5.7

-2.4%

T o p 10 L o s e r s T ic k er

-12.5%

2.5x

32

T o p 10

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

WA P IC

0.36

-10.0%

ET ER N A

6.25

-9.4%

LA WUN ION

0.60

-9.1%

ST D IN SUR E

0.32

-8.6%

46.80

-6.4%

0.85

-5.6%

GUA R A N T Y

34.95

ST A N B IC

45.00

J A P A ULOIL UN ION D A C

A IIC O

(A Dealing Member of the Nigerian Stock Exchange)

12.0%

7

UN ILEVER

Afrinvest Securities Limited (RC 603 315)

6.2%

224.00

T ic k er

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ZĞŵĂŝŶƐ ^ŽŌ

Divinden Earnings d Yield Yield

T ra de s

by V a lue

T ic k er

Value

P ric e C hg %

GUA R A N T Y

860.2

-4.6%

ST A N B IC

236.2

-4.3%

Z EN IT H B A N K

21 0.1

-2.1 %

UB A

1 20.9

-1 .3%

FB NH

98.2

0.0%

IN T B R EW

95.9

-3.0%

-4.6%

GUIN N ESS

86.1

-2.2%

-4.3%

NB

66.1

-0.5%

0.24

-4.0%

D A N GC EM

56.5

0.4%

0.26

-3.7%

A C C ESS

44.4

-1 .6%

Investment Research

Brokerage Ayodeji Ebo | aebo@afrinvest.com

Robert Omotunde | romotunde@afrinvest.com

Bolaji Fajenyo | bfajenyo@afrinvest.com

Eronmosele Aziba | eaziba@afrinvest.com

45

T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ ÍżËœ ͺ͸͚͜

MARKET NEWS

PZ Cussons Shareholders to Receive Dividend in October Goddy Egene

Shareholders PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc are to receive the 15 kobo dividend recommended by the board of directors for the year ended May 30, 2018 on Friday October 19, 2018. The payment will be after the approval by the shareholders at the annual general meeting (AGM) a day earlier. PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc disclosed this in a notification to the Nigerian Stock Exchange

(NSE). However, the 15 kobo dividend, which amount to N595.572 million is lower than the 50 kobo or N1.985 billion paid last year. The company had cut the dividend payout due to a decline of 44 per cent in the company’s profit after tax (PAT) for the year. In its audited results, PZ Cussons reported a revenue of N80.553 billion, up by 3.0 per cent from N78.216 billion recorded in 2017. Cost of sale rose from N50.267 billion to

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

N56.097 billion, bringing the gross profit to N24.455 billion compared with N27.947 billion the previous year. Sales and distribution costs equally went up to N9.601 billion from N9.095 billion, while administrative expenses hit N6.626 billion compared with N5.637 billion in 2017. Net financing cost increased significantly by 234 per cent to N652 million, from N195 million in 2017. Consequently, profit before tax fell 52 per cent to N2.313

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 0509-2018, unless otherwise stated.

billion from N4.811 billion, the decrease in PAT was lower due to 66 per cent reduction in taxation, which was N386 million in 2018 compared with N1.125 billion in 2017. As a result, PZ Cussons posted PAT of N1.927 billion in 2018, showing a decline of 44 per cent compared with N3.686 billion in 2017. Chairman of PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc, Chief Kola Jamodu had said the weaker revenue growth, increased operating expenses due to inflation

resulted in a reduction in the group’s PAT. According to him, there have been no structural changes in the landscape of the segments in which the company operate and the market share of its brands remain strong. However, he said to buttress and sustain the position of the company in the market, improve efficiency and improve performance of the business into the future, a number of initiatives are being implemented.

“They include: a further streamling and optimisation of product portfolio to bring more focus on key brands and categories and restore margins; optimisation of the operating model to reduce overheads as well as improve the speed at which new products are brought to the market and a review of product costs across all categories with a focus on areas such as packaging reduction and a drive to reduce plastic consumption,� Jamodu said.

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

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 1 270 1680 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 166.56 167.15 -6.30% Nigeria International Debt Fund 264.78 265.42 14.43% 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 0.83 0.84 0.86% ACAP Income Funds 0.63 0.63 5.00% 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 12.30% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Discovery Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Ethical Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 137.71 138.67 -9.22% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.94% 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 10.68% Paramount Equity Fund 11.75 12.05 5.97% Women's Investment Fund 102.49 105.12 1.85% 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 12.25% 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 N/A N/A N/A Coronation Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Coronation Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 11.85% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 12.65% 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 1,185.36 1,186.10 9.55% FBN Heritage Fund 141.43 142.39 0.68% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 11.98% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional $114.07 $114.37 3.48% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail $113.90 $114.21 3.43% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 158.71 160.97 -0.63% 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 1.25 1.28 -3.15% Legacy Debt Fund 3.14 3.14 8.60% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.00 1.00 0.99% 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 12.10% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 102.78 104.42 3.14% 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 11.78% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.13 2.15 1.06% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 14.19%

Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 121.49 121.76 5.58% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD ďŹ ncon@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 3.63% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,080.03 1,079.96 9.42% 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 11.81 11.91 -9.14% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 10.65% 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 1.32 1.34 10.60% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.87 11.95 7.61% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.00% 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 127.90 128.45 -1.34% 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 1.64 1.64 10.19% 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 2,284.72 2,300.49 4.01% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 185.11 185.11 6.32% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.97 0.98 -3.47% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 239.32 239.37 10.94% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 166.88 168.78 -6.81% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 11.62% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 8,737.18 8,842.57 -8.17% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.09 1.09 2.44% 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 1.17 1.18 -1.13% United Capital Bond Fund 1.54 1.54 8.20% United Capital Equity Fund 0.74 0.75 -3.59% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.54% United Capital Eurobond Fund 104.70 104.70 4.67% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.07 1.07 2.54% 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 11.47 11.65 -7.33% Zenith Ethical Fund 12.36 12.48 -5.55% Zenith Income Fund 20.18 20.18 6.66% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.67%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

11.41 137.71 51.52

1.01 3.96% 1.36%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

11.40 125.91 97.19

11.50 128.59 99.02

-3.94% -11.85% -11.03%

Fund Name FSDH UPDC Real Estate Investment Fund SFS Skye Shelter Fund Union Homes REIT

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 GrifďŹ n 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund

SPECIALIST FUNDS*

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

4.20 8.00 15.96 16.27 141.83

4.24 8.08 16.06 16.47 143.83

-11.41% -16.35% -8.68% -17.17% 5.52%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

105.44

17.63%

FOR HNI & PROFESSIONAL INVESTORS ONLY

Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

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

46

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7, 2018 Ëž T H I S D AY

FOREIGN/DIPLOMATIC AFFAIRS

Editor: VINCENT OBIA vincent.obia@thisdaylive.com 0805 468 1757

In Brief

New Counterterrorism Training Facility in Senegal

The US Department of State and the Government of Senegal on Thursday inaugurated a new regional counterterrorism training facility in Thiès, Senegal. U.S. and Senegalese officials formally dedicated the new Regional Tactical Training Centre, which was funded, constructed, and equipped through the Department of State’s Antiterrorism Assistance (ATA) programme. The new centre is ATA’s first regional training facility in West Africa. Once fully operational, the training centre, part of a pre-existing Senegalese training facility, will expand ATA’s capacity to train Senegalese and other West African partner nation law enforcement officers at this regional counterterrorism training hub. ATA will provide training in hard skills, such as crisis response, explosive incident countermeasures, post-blast investigations, and rural border patrol operations. The ATA programme has been delivering counterterrorism training in Senegal since 1985.

South Sudan Jails Soldiers for Rape, Murder

A military court in South Sudan on Thursday sentenced 10 soldiers to jail terms ranging from seven years to life for a rampage in which a journalist was killed and foreign aid workers were raped. The court also ordered South Sudan’s government to pay each rape survivor $4,000 (£3,000) in compensation. BBC reported that it was the first time soldiers have been sentenced for committing atrocities in South Sudan. The crimes were committed during an attack in the Terrain Hotel in the capital Juba in 2016. A UN report accused peacekeepers of failing to respond to pleas for help. South Sudan’s military and rebel forces have been accused of committing numerous atrocities since the outbreak of a civil war in 2013, but this was the worst attack against foreigners.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel

Namibian Genocide Victims’Remains Are Home, But Germany Still Has Work to Do Reinhart KÜssler and Henning Melber

H

uman remains kept by German institutions as part of their colonial loot were repatriated to Namibia at the end of August 2018 – the third time this has been done. And once again, the process was marred by serious friction, a clear illustration that both the German and Namibian governments have not come to terms with the problems involved. Most human remains that had been taken from Namibia were from people killed during the genocide between 1904 and 1908, or related atrocities under German colonialism. It’s not known how many such remains are still in German “collectionsâ€?. But their repatriation cannot be de-linked from the need by Germany to admit to its colonial, state-sponsored crime. And the former colonial power has yet to take what’s needed to provide redress. It took a full century after its colonial dreams of empire ended for Germany to accept – and then reluctantly – responsibility for the traumatic past. Only in July 2015 did the foreign ministry confirm that the term “genocideâ€? was applicable to what happened in then “German South-West Africaâ€?. This was finally confirmed as official policy a year later. But bilateral negotiations remain at an impasse. The main unresolved issues are the full recognition of the genocide, an appropriate apology and a willingness for redress on the side of Germany. During the ceremonies around the restitution of remains, German official pronouncements once again remained evasive. This means: no formal recognition of genocide, no official apology, and no mention at all of any redress. True reconciliation remains a remote hope. On August 29, 27 human remains were handed over. The solemn ceremony took place in a prominent Berlin church. The speech by Michelle MĂźntefering, Germany’s Minister of State at the Federal Foreign Office, offered no deep apology. At the end, she “bowed in deep mourningâ€? and asked, “from the bottom of my heart for forgivenessâ€?. Such wording does not go beyond the individual remorse offered in 2004 by German Minister Heidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul. And MĂźntefering again resorted to a quaint wording that obfuscated Germany’s responsibility for its actions, saying, “atrocities committed then in the German name were, what today would be termed a genocide.â€? Such verbal acrobatics seeks to stress that international law on genocide would not apply to the deeds of 19041908, thereby dodging any claims to reparations. Reparation claims are pursued both by the Namibian government and separately by descendants of the main victim groups who feel they aren’t adequately represented in the bilateral negotiations between the governments. The actions by agencies of Ovaherero and Nama include a widely observed court case in New York. The contested “G-wordâ€?, and its implications for

reparation claims, were not the only sensitive issue. Before the handover of human remains was consummated, conflicts cropped up because of the approach taken by both governments. In an obvious attempt to keep a low profile on the side of the German state, the ceremony was made the responsibility of the German Protestant Church, acting jointly with the Namibian Council of Churches. Participation in a vigil was restricted to personal invitations. This violated the fundamental principles of Christian sermons being open to all. Representatives of the independent Ovaherero and Nama agencies as descendants of the victim groups were only allowed at the last minute to occupy some space in the ceremonies. They voiced their frustration accordingly. As Paramount Chief Rukoro stated on their behalf, “How do you – the organisers of this event – think of us, Herero and Nama leaders, that our staunch supporters who were responsible for discovering these remains, are kept outside while we are locked up inside and standing next to members of the very church that has committed genocide against our people? Don’t you ever have respect for our feelings?â€? Nor did on-going tensions abate in Namibia. The human remains were repatriated in the company of MĂźntefering and the German special envoy to Windhoek. On 31 August a ceremony took place in the Parliament Garden with Namibia’s vice president as the keynote speaker. While all participants were at pains to maintain decorum, divergent concerns were strikingly articulated. Vice president Nangolo Mbumba followed his government’s line in stressing national unity. He emphasised the need for reparations. Recognising the contribution of the affected communities, he reminded them that the human remains left Namibia when it was a colony. They were now returned to a democratic country under a constitution. The representatives of victim communities went further, insisting on a formal apology and reparations. Even the Ovaherero group that cooperates with the government negotiations and Namibia’s special envoy, stressed they would evaluate any result against these essentials. MĂźntefering, for her part, mainly repeated her former speech. This third repatriation of human remains – the others were in 2011 and 2014 – was another missed opportunity to move closer to some serious reconciliation between Germany and Namibia. In Berlin MĂźntefering told reporters, that Germany still has “a lot of catching up to do in coming to terms with our colonial heritage.â€? This challenge remains, and the descendants of the victims will continue to demand justice. Germany and Namibia remain a far cry from true reconciliation. t,ĂšTTMFS JT 1SPGFTTPS JO 1PMJUJDBM 4DJFODF 'SFJCVSH 6OJWFSTJUZ (FSNBOZ )FOOJOH .FMCFS JT &YUSBPSEJOBSZ 1SPGFTTPS %FQBSUNFOU PG 1PMJUJDBM 4DJFODFT 6OJWFSTJUZ PG 1SFUPSJB 4PVUI "GSJDB

5 Injured, 4 Dead in Cincinatti Shooting

Police in the US city of Cincinnati said on Thursday that four people, including the shooter, died and another five were injured after officers responded to an active shooter situation at a building downtown. The Cincinatti Police Department said in a tweet on Thursday they were investigating an “active shooter/ officer involved shooting� at the Fifth Third Bank, located in the city’s Fountain Square, a busy meeting place. Streets around Fountain Square were closed Thursday morning and the area cordoned off, Al Jazeera reported. The situation in Cincinatti appeared to be under control shortly before 10am [14:00 GMT]. Cincinatti Police Chief Elliot Isaac told reporters that downtown Cincinatti was “safe� and roads would soon be open.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as OBUGE RHEMA IBIBA, now wish to be known and addressed as OBUGE RHEMA VIVIAN. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note. I formerly known as OGBEIDE RUTH ESEOSE, now wish to be known and addressed as POLITE RUTH ESEOSE. All other documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as LUKA YUSUF ABUBAKAR, now wish to be known, called and addressed as EZEKIEL YUNANA MADU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note. I formerly known as EGWUATU GIFT IFUNANYA, now wish to be known and addressed as OBOBO GIFT IFUNANYA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note. I formerly known as ONYEMAECHI ANENE, now wish to be known and addressed as ONYEMAECHI PETER . All other documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known as NURAIN ISMAIL AKINBOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as NURENI ISMAIL BOLAJI. All other documents remain valid. The general public should please take note. I formerly known as PETER TAIYE RICHARD, now wish to be known and addressed as AKLAGBE CONSTANT PETER. All other documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known as MISS JANE OGECHUKWU OMETU, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS JANE OMETU EYO. All other documents remain valid. The general public should please take note. I formerly known as MISS LASISI MAYOWA MONICA, now wish to be known and addressed as MISS BOLARINWA MAYOWA MONICA. All other documents remain valid. The general public should please take note. I formerly known as GEORGENEER IHUOMA IROEGBU, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS GEORGENEER IHUOMA JONAS. All other documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

dĹšĹ?Ć? Ĺ?Ć? ƚŽ ŜŽĆ&#x;ĨLJ ƚŚĞ Ĺ?ÄžĹśÄžĆŒÄ‚ĹŻ ƉƾÄ?ĹŻĹ?Ä? that the bearer of these names ORIAKHI AGHO AUGUSTINE and AGHO AUGUSTINE remains one and the same person. Henceforth, I wish to be known and addressed as AGHO AUGUSTINE.All former documents remain valid.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

47

NEWS

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike Email Ejiofor.Alike@thisdaylive.com, 08066066268

INEC Registers 14.5m New Voters, Says Preparation for Osun Poll on Course Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed that it has registered over 14.5 million new voters ahead of the 2019 general election. The electoral body has also affirmed that preparations ahead of September 22, 2018, governorship poll in Osun State are on course. The INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja at a regular meeting with the Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), where he revealed that the commission was working on a multi-faceted approach to curb vote-buying and other malpractices during the election. “On the preparation for the Osun State governorship election, all processes and activities are going according to our timetable and schedule of activities released almost a year ago. “The last major activity was the presentation of

the voters’ register to each of the 48 political parties fielding candidates in the election, giving detailed information of the distribution of the 1.6 million registered voters by local government areas, wards and polling units. “We are working on a multi-faceted approach to the menace of vote-buying and other sundry electoral malpractices. We will introduce changes to the election-day administration of our polling units, in addition to the electronic tracking of our sensitive materials.” The INE chairman stressed further that the commission had concluded the current phase of the nationwide CVR exercise last week, which lasted for 16 months, from April 27, 2017 to August 31, 2018. Yakubu added “at the end of the exercise, a total of 14,551,482 new voters were registered. If this figure is added to the existing register of 69,720,350 voters, it means that the nation now has a voter population of

84,271,832. “Although the figure may drop slightly after we run the Automatic Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS), the current figure represents about 21% increase on the existing register. On this note, let me also appeal to Nigerians to seize the opportunity of the ongoing nationwide display of the particulars of new voters for claims and objections as required by law. “By doing so, citizens will

be helping the commission to further clean up the register and purge it of all ineligible registrants as required by Section 12 of the Electoral Act.” The chairman stressed that in addition to fresh registration, the commission was also processing 769,917 requests for intra and inter-State transfers as well as 1,178,793 requests for replacement of lost, damaged or cards with misspelt names or incorrect

personal details of voters as required by law. “This means that the Commission has to print a total of 16,500,192 Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) and make them available for collection by citizens ahead of the 2019 general elections. Already, the Commission has printed the PVCs for those registered in 2017 and delivered them to States for collection”, he added, “I can also confirm that

the PVCs for 2.7 million voters registered in the first quarter of 2018 have been printed and will be delivered to the states next week. We wish to reassure Nigerians that every registered voter will have his or her PVC available for collection before the general election.” The chairman assured Nigerians that collection of PVCs would continue until one week to the 2019 general election.

USAID Marks Successful Implementation of Governance Programme Vincent Obia The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) yesterday said it had concluded a nine-year programme aimed at improving the performance of state and local governments in Nigeria as well as increasing the involvement of civil society in the democratic process for the good of their communities. USAID said since 2009, the Leadership, Empowerment, Advocacy and Development (LEAD) activity, in partnership with government ministers, departments and agencies, state legislatures, and civil society organisations (CSOs), had helped to build the capacity of state and local government institutions in Nigeria to assume greater responsibilities in delivering the basic services demanded by their constituents through training on leadership skills, and enhancing transparency and public accountability. “LEAD has demonstrated that if engaged, ministries, departments and agencies of government charged with service delivery can work together with their civil society constituents for the good of their communities and their states,” USAID Mission Director Stephen M. Haykin said at a ceremony yesterday in Abuja to mark the feat. “[It] has made a significant contribution toward the U.S. and Nigerian governments’ shared objective of improving sub-national governance.” USAID said in a statement that in Sokoto and Bauchi States, with later expansion to Kano and Rivers States, LEAD had helped local governments decentralise decision-making processes and

promote citizen participation in government decision-making to ensure improved service delivery in critical sectors, such as health, education, and water and sanitation. “LEAD provided technical support, mentoring and coaching to enhance the technical capacity of more than 6,000 government officials at the state and local government area levels in the four targeted states. This empowered LGA officials to better utilise strong institutional systems and processes for governance and service delivery, strategic policy development, project planning and implementation, personnel development, and financial management,” the statement said. It said LEAD also supported hundreds of civil society organisations to co-formulate with local councils communitybased strategic plans and priority setting, town hall meetings, service improvement plans, revenue improvement plans, gender policies and enhance state-level monitoring and evaluation policies. “In Sokoto, community involvement in state level budget planning led to an increase in the education allocations from 17 per cent of the state’s budget in 2015 to 27 per cent in 2016, and it remains at that level. These increased budget allocations led to the employment of 2,000 teachers and the construction of and rehabilitation of classrooms. Other efforts resulted in strengthening primary health care centres and improved access to potable water for over 600,000 people in LEAD supported states,” USAID stated.

FIRST FRUITS HARVEST CEREMONY...

L:R Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Wells Hosa GreenHouse Farms Limited, Captain Idahosa Okunbo, and Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Segun Awolowo, at the First fruits harvest ceremony held in Benin City, Edo State...yesterday

Chinese Consortium Begins 3050MW Mambilla Power Project Next Year Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday in Beijing, China, was given assurances from the joint venture partners handling the 3,050 megawatts Mambilla Hydro-electric power plant that all processes leading to its take-off next year would soon be completed. A statement by the presidential spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, said at the meeting in Beijing with the President of CGCC, the construction company, Professor Lyu Ze Xiang, Buhari

got a briefing on timelines for the commencement of the project following the success of an earlier meeting with the Chinese President Xi Jinping. He said Buhari, who likened the Mambilla to China’s Three Gorges Dam, said given the significance of the project to the Nigeria’s socio-economic development, there was a need for its speedy completion. “I am very pleased with the concern you have shown for the significance of this project,” he told the head of the construction giant, adding that “I would like you to ensure its speedy

completion.” According to the statement, Xiang informed Buhari that Nigerian officials and the project consultant would meet in the next two weeks to address the questions raised by the Chinese president for more details and updated feasibility and sustainability studies, adding that a team had already been set up to work on the financing aspect. “We fully understand the importance of this project to the economic and social wellbeing of Nigeria. In two weeks, we will sit down with all the parties for

the economic and sustainability analysis. It would take about four weeks to conclude the update,” the contractor reportedly said. The statement further said the lead contractor stated that the “pre-commencement work” would thereafter begin, dealing with access to site and putting in place the necessary support infrastructure such as power, water and transportation. The statement added that the contractor told Buhari shortly before his departure from China that “our target is to commence the project early next year.”

Olojo 2018: Ooni Seeks Promotion ofYoruba Cultural Festivals Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, has called on the people of the Yoruba nation within the country and in the diaspora to harmonise efforts towards promoting all cultural festivals and traditions of the race. The monarch spoke in his palace in Ile Ife, during a press briefing ahead of this year’s Olojo Festival. Oba Ogunwusi, who was

flanked by palace chiefs, priests and sponsors of the celebrations that include Bet9ja, MTN, Goldberg and Seamans Aromatic Schnapps, decried the continuous description of adherents of traditional religion as idol worshippers. He urged the people of the race to rise to the challenge and protect their cultural beliefs. Oba Ogunwusi said the entire Yoruba race should jointly embrace the tradition

of their forefathers, repackage and export it. According to him, “failure to admire it would surely destroy the labour of our past heroes. We are not idol worshippers, but we are using the celebration of the festivals to acknowledge and give due honour to all our deities that have contributed immensely to human existence. “Olojo festival symbolises celebrating the first day of creation and the beginning

of existence in Ile-Ife, being the cradle of human race. The word “Olojo” implies reference to Olodumare, the creator and the owner of the day and that is why Olojo festival is being celebrated in Ife kingdom, the cradle of Yorubas. “Christian and Muslims do celebrate and remembrance Jesus Christ and Prophet Mohammed in due times same thing should be applicable to the traditional religion adherents,” he explained.

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Saraki: I’ll Run Inclusive Govt If Elected President Consults South-east govs, delegates Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki,who is a presidential aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has promised to run an inclusive government if elected president in February 2019. The Senate president, who last week threw his hat in the ring for the country’s number one seat, yesterday continued his consultation with governors and leaders of the PDP in the South-east zone. The Director General of Saraki for President Campaign Organisation, Hon. Mohammed Wakil, in a statement quoted Saraki as making the pledge while flagging off his nationwide ‘Meet The Delegates’ Campaign Tour in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, yesterday. The presidential aspirant stated that upon his election as president

he would operate an inclusive cabinet with a view to ensuring equity and fairness. Saraki had told party loyalists and supporters, including Governor Dave Umahi and serving Senators, at a reception in his honour that Nigerians deserves a president with proven capacity and capability in 2019. He further told his audience that Nigeria is at a major cross-roads in its developmental history adding that at a “critical period such as this, the President Nigeria deserves must be the very best available with proven capacity, knowledge and capability.” While congratulating Governor Umahi on his excellent performance in the state which led to his endorsement for a second term by the state PDP stakeholders, Saraki also seized the opportunity to request for similar endorsement by the Ebonyi state delegates to the

PDP national convention. Saraki implored Nigerians to choose leaders that have capacity to move the country forward, lamenting that Nigeria has never been so divided like in the present administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. He said the choice of Ebonyi State was informed based on the developmental agenda of the present administration and leadership prowess and his quest for inclusiveness in governance. “There is a high level of uninclusivness in the country. We must choose leaders that have capacity to move the country

forward. What you are seeing in Ebonyi is not by chance, it is because your governor has capacity that that is why you are witnessing development. How then can you choose a man with capacity in your state without choosing also a leader with capacity at the national level” “We fight poverty, we will fight corruption too and not do a selective corruption fight. We will develop solid minerals in Ebonyi State. We will bring private investors into the country and turn around youth involvement in governance by bringing youths to governance”

Umahi who was presented with the governorship norminaton form purchased by the members of the State Executive Council described Senator Saraki as a refined Nigerian and defender of democracy as well as friend to Ebonyi State. Governor Umahi reiterated his earlier promise to return power to Abakaliki bloc in 2023 after his second term, adding that his administration remains focused on the developmental agenda. “We will handover a state that is most beautiful, best economy and richest in the country” the

governor said. He commended Saraki for standing firm over the various crises and urged that the National Assembly must work together to unite the country and turn its fortunes to the best. Meanwhile, Saraki yesterday continued his consultation with governors and leaders of PDP in the South-east zone. He met with PDP leaders in the North-central zone in Abuja last Wednesday evening before he jetted out of Abuja yesterday morning with members of his campaign team to Enugu.

Flood Kills Five in Niger Laleye Dipo in Minna A nursing mother and her baby were among the five people who died as a result of last Sunday’s flood, which followed hours of rainfall in Kontagora area of Niger State. A 17-year-old boy who was not related to the woman was also said to have died as a result of the flood. The identities of the two other deceased persons were not yet known. Reports from the Niger State National Emergency Management Agency NSEMA also confirmed an earlier report that the road from Kontagora to Makera had been cut off forcing traffic to be diverted to other routes. The Director General of the agency, Alhaji Ibrahim Inga, said his men were already in the area

for an on the spot inspection adding that a detailed report would soon be submitted to the relevant authority. Inga said the bodies of the deceased had been recovered “from various locations” and were buried, according to Islamic injunction. He urged those staying in the downstream of rivers in the state to relocate to safer grounds to avoid such casualties in the future. Inga had early in the week while exchanging views with a media management team disclosed that 17 out of the 25 local government areas in the state had been affected by flood since the rains started this year. He said the agency had identified 11 areas where resettlements of those displaced would be established.

2019 Polls: Army Reads Riot Act to Mischief Makers Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja The Nigerian Army yesterday read the riot act to mischief makers plotting against the peaceful conduct of the 2019 general election, saying it is prepared to take decisive steps against some undesirable elements and politicians adept at deploying thugs and those engaged in kidnapping during the elections. This is coming as it embarked on a major reorganisation of North-east operations, tagged: ‘Operation Lafia Dole’ in Borno State, where it denied the loss of 46 soldiers and equipment to terrorist group, Boko Haram. Speaking at a meeting with principal officers, General Officers Commanding (GOCs), field commanders and operations officers at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Yusuf Buratai, said the army was prepared to ensure effective security before, during and after the elections. “We remain apolitical and we are committed to safeguarding

the constitution. The unity of the country cannot be compromised. “On the 2019 elections, we are prepared to ensure effective security before, during and after elections. We have told our officers to be professional and we shall be decisive where necessary”, he said. He maintained that “political thugs, kidnappers and criminal elements identified with arms would be dealt with decisively. We shall adhere to international standards of operations. Buratai said the army was reviewing operations in different areas of engagement across the country including the northeast operations where the military battled insurgents. He said the meeting reviewed challenges and directed officers to address them properly while noting that the army high command was satisfied with the general conduct of operations. He said the army was reorganising ‘Operation Lafia Dole’ in order to reinvigorate it and tackle emerging challenges.

WE PRESENT OUR CANDIDATE…

L-R: Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Gandunje; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Chief Gboyega Oyetola; National Chairman of APC, Mr. Adams Oshiomhole, and National Leader of the party, Senator Bola Tinubu, during the campaign rally of the party in Osogbo, Osun State…yesterday

Transparency International Calls for Scraping of SecurityVotes International watchdog, Transparency International (TI), has called on Nigeria to enact a legislation outlawing security votes. Its Africa Programme Manager of Defence and Security Unit, Christina Hildrew, made the call in Abuja at a twoday stakeholders’ conference. The conference was organised by Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) in partnership with TI and support from European Union. Security votes are funds that are disbursed to cover unforeseen security needs in the country. They are usually at the discretion of public officials, without being subject

to independent audit. In May, TI released a report revealing that $670million is spent annually on security votes in Nigeria. This sum is more than the 2017 budget of the Nigerian army. Hildrew, according to TheCable, described security votes as “corruption-prone security funding mechanisms.” She called for measures to put in place for effective oversight structures to monitor confidential security spending, including procurements. “Security votes are opaque corruption-prone security funding mechanisms widely used across Nigeria’s three tiers

of government,” Hildrew said. “Investigation shows that estimates of $670 million annually, transacted mostly in cash were security vote spending and it is not subjected to legislative oversight or independent audit because of its substantively secretive nature. “Yet this veil of secrecy protects the many officials who misspent security votes, and they channel them into political activities or embezzle them outright. “There is a wide issue in the defence sector which is defence `exceptionalism’, that is, the public allows defence sector to be unaccountable for what they spend because of national security issues.

“However, the defence sector should not be unaccountable to the citizens it is meant to protect.” Hildrew, therefore, called for additional legislative oversight of the defence sector, adding that “we think it is important that parliamentary audit committees and civil societies have a say on how security spending is decided.”. Hildrew also canvassed for the establishment of security trust fund at state level to support the phasing out of security votes. She said checks and balances need to be put in the system so as to ensure accountability and transparency of security expenditure.

I Have No Plan to Defect to APC, Says Orji The Senator representing Abia Central at the National Assembly, Theodore Orji, has said he has no plan of defecting to All Progressives Congress (APC). A statement made available to THISDAY by his media adviser and legislative aide, Eddie Onuzuruike, said there was no reason for Senator

Orji to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). “In fact, there is no reason for that. The PDP, our great party, gave him the platform for the governorship and the Senate. The same platform is ready for a second tenure. When the PDP was engulfed in crises he was strongly with the party and was

instrumental in resolving the crises so why should he leave a peaceful house to Abia APC populated by his detractors?” He asked. The statement further said: “Senator Orji is an ardent believer in discipline and loyalty. Jumping from one party to another is not in his character. In

truth, such actions do not convey seriousness and steadfastness, factors that he considers as sound attributes. “He has emphatically debunked this news and clearly stated that there are no reasons whatsoever to jump ship or dump his beloved PDP.”

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Police Rescue Kidnapped Catholic Priest in Delta as Unknown Gunmen Shoot Anambra Pastor David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka Rev Father Christopher Ogaga, the Catholic priest who was kidnapped last Saturday night on his way to Warri, has been rescued. The rescue is coming as unknown gunmen yesterday evening trailed and shot a popular miracle pastor known as Pastor David Elijah Chidiebere, in front of his church in Awka, Anambra State. Disclosing the development in a chat on yesterday, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Mustafa, said Father Ogaga was rescued on Wednesday night somewhere along Eku-Abraka Road. According to the police chief, three suspects were already in custody even as

other ones still at large were being trailed to answer for their role in the criminal operation. “Yes, the Rev Father has been rescued. We have three suspects in our custody, while we are still on the trail of the other gang members. Of course, no ransom was paid because it was a rescue”, the police chief said. The kidnappers had demanded a N15 million ransom for his release almost immediately after he was taken. It would be recalled that Father Ogaga was kidnapped on Saturday, September 1, 2018 along the Arava-OviriOrere-Okpe Road, while on his way to Warri to assist the parish priest of Mother of the Redeemer Catholic Church, Airport junction, Effurun for the three masses on Sunday

morning. It was gathered that Ogaga, who is priest of two other parishes of the church; St Luke’s Catholic Church, Oviri Okpe and St Jude’s Catholic Church Aghalopke, is also the principal of St. Peters Clavers College, Aghalokpe. Meanwhile, unknown gunmen yesterday shot Pastor David Elijah Chidiebere in front of his church in Awka, Anambra State. The middle-aged pastor who is the founder of Divine Prophetic Ministry in Awka, was known for his very intriguing prophesies and

healing miracle in the city. Though it was not clear if the man of God was attacked by assassins, THISDAY gathered that the gunmen trailed him in their vehicle from Enugu to Awka where he was attacked after he was made to park his car in front of his church. An unidentified source from his church was quoted as saying the suspects demanded to be given N5million, but he offered them N1million which they declined. Another account however stated that the gunmen after riddling his vehicle with bullets, left him in the pool

of his blood and carted away an undisclosed sum. When THISDAY visited the church premises, some members were seen discussing the attack in clusters. Pastor Chidiebere was rescued by some members of his church after the gunmen drove away, and was said to be receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital. A resident, who gave his name as Johnson, said he was passing through that road when he saw some persons pulling out a man from the shattered vehicle. “When I enquired, I was

told that he was the pastor of the church. Who knows what he must have done to attract this kind of treatment?” he wondered. Haruna Mohammed, Anambra State police spokesperson could not confirm the attack. He promised to get back to THISDAY after confirming the incident from the DPO in charge of the area. The police boss did not get back as at the time of filing this report. The event happened less than 500 meters from B division, police station.

Again, Atiku Questions Buhari’s Integrity Ugo Aliogo Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has again yesterday questioned President Muhammadu Buhari’s integrity, and wondered why he condones rots in his government. Atiku had last Tuesday said Buhari was “very uncompromising, power drunk (and) will not be ready to leave power without a fight.” But President Buhari’s spokesman, Femi Adesina, said his principal is uncompromising in the quest to restore probity and accountability to public office. “He is uncompromising in cleaning the rot Nigeria was consigned into pre -2015; thus the war against corruption is being fought without fear or favour,” Adesina said. In his response yesterday, Atiku through his spokesman, Paul Ibe, said it was curious that President Buhari is deemed uncompromising while the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, accused of certificate forgery, remains in office Adeosun has been accused by an online news medium of forging her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) exemption certificate. In a statement, Ibe questioned the presidency for doing nothing when the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, secured a court order to stop the Senate from probing the reinstatement of Abdulrasheed Maina who is accused of a multibillion pension scam. “If President Buhari is ‘uncompromising in cleaning the rot Nigeria was consigned into pre -2015’ then how come the latest Corruption Perception Index by Transparency International reveals that Nigeria is more corrupt today than she was in 2015, having moved 12 steps backwards in Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, moving from 136 in 2014 under the PDP to 148 today?,” the statement read. “Again, we ask how uncompromising a president can be when he allows a minister accused of forgery to remain at

her job? “It appears that the president is surrounded by people who have become his echo chamber and are telling him what he wants to hear, otherwise no one in his right mind would call an administration that increased the price of petrol while at the same time paying more subsidy on the product than the previous government which it accused of ‘subsidy scam’, uncompromising against corruption. “It is only common sense that if the price of petrol increased by 68 per cent from 87 per litre to 145, then the cost of fuel subsidy should also reduce, especially as the price of crude oil also reduced. “However, by some strange mathematics, the Buhari administration pays a whopping 1.4 trillion on subsidy per annum according to the minister of state for petroleum. This amount is almost twice what the Jonathan administration paid and yet President Buhari accused that administration of scamming the nation. “Where is the transparency in that? No wonder the minister of state for petroleum resources revealed in a leaked memo that $25 billion worth of contracts was awarded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)under the watch of the supervising minister of petroleum, President Buhari. “More than a year after the probe panel which probed the fantastically corrupt Ikoyi apartment billions affair, nobody knows who owned the money and how $43 million in cash was housed in a government linked flat. So much for an uncompromising attitude to corruption,” the statement said. Commenting on the issue of Buhari being allegedly power drunk, Ibe said the president is a witness against himself. “It goes without saying that a president who publicly boasted that the rule of law can be suppressed against certain individuals is not only power drunk, but dictatorial,” he said.

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

L-R: A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and father of House of Representatives’ aspirant on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency in Abia State, Chief Chibuike Nwokeukwu; the aspirant, Dr. Adaeze Nwokeukwu, and National Organising Secretary of PDP, Col. Austin Akobundu (rtd), when Adaeze went to pick her expression of interest form at the PDP Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja…recently

Court to Hear Suits against Change of Senate Leadership Sept 19 Alex Enumah in Abuja A Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday fixed September 19 to hear the about six suits seeking to stop the planned removal of Bukola Saraki as Senate President. All the suits want the court to declare as unlawful Saraki’s removal from office via means other than that provided in Section 50(2)(c) of the Constitution. Section 50(2) provides: “The President or Deputy President of the Senate or the Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives shall vacate his office…. (c) if he is removed from office by a resolution of the Senate or of the House of Representatives, as the case may be, by the votes of not less than two-thirds majority of the members of that House.” The September 19 hearing date was chosen yesterday by Justice Nnamdi Dimgba to enable parties file all necessary papers and prepare adequately. The suits include: United Peoples Congress (UPC) vs. Attorney General of the Federation & four others (FHC/

ABJ/CS/944/2018); Okpako Grant vs. All Progressives Congress & others (FHC/ABJ/ CS/948/2018) and Senator Rafiu Adebayo & one other vs. The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & others (FHC/ABJ/ CS/872/2018). Others are: Hon. Benjamin Tivfa vs. IGP & others (FHC/ ABJ/CS/822/2018); The Incorporated Trustees of C.S.O.C.L.O. vs. Senator Bukola Saraki and others (FHC/ABJ/ CS/936/2018); and Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere & another vs. The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & others (FHC/ ABJ/CS/890/2018). UPC, in the suit filed by its lawyer, Chief M. A. Igwe, stated that there was need for a formal court’s pronouncement on the proper interpretation of the provision of the Constitution on the proper mode of changing the leadership of a federal legislative house. In a supporting affidavit deposed to by its National Chairman, Kenneth Ibe-Kalu, the plaintiff claimed that the determination of the suit would guide persons seeking election

on its platform into the National Assembly as to their rights when elected as legislators as well as the rights of their party. The UPC said it is already planning a retreat, which will be regular, for all its candidates for the 2019 elections, to let the candidates understand their rights and powers, including their rights and powers as sought to be declared by the court. It added that: “As a registered political party, the plaintiff has a right to know the true position of the law as provided by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), as the provisions of the Constitution are not self-executory. “That it is only a court set up under the 1999 Constitution (as amended) as this Honourable Court that has the power to interpret the Constitution.” The plaintiff wants the court to declare: “That the President of the Senate, the Deputy President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives can only be

removed from office by the provisions of section 50(1) (a) and (b) and section 50 (2) (c) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended and in particular, can only be removed by a resolution of that House by votes of members not less than two-thirds majority of ALL the members of that House.” It also seeks a declaration “that the two-thirds majority for removal of President of the Senate, the Deputy President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives as provided in section 50(1) (a) and (b) and section 50 (2) (c) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended refers to two-thirds of All members of that House and not two-thirds of members present at the sitting.” Defendants in the suit are: the Attorney General of the Federation, National Assembly, President of the Senate, Speaker, House of Representatives and Clerk of the National Assembly.

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Falana: Buhari Hiding Under National Interest to Justify Disobedience of Court Orders Calls for increased funding to improve police investigation Ugo Aliogo Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr. Femi Falana, has said President Muhammadu Buhari is hiding under the cloak of national interest to justify his disobedience of court orders. The senior lawyer has also called for increased funding to improve the capacity of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to carry out criminal investigations, stating that government funding is key to driving the success of the force. Speaking in a Channels TV programme yesterday, Falana, according to The Cable, said though the constitution gives room for breaching human rights, there are established grounds for this to happen. He added that one of those grounds, being national security, is not at the disposition of the president but should be determined by the court. Falana said, “when you talk of national security, you are talking of the security of the nation; of the entirety of our people, and the constitution is clear on that. All the human rights enshrined in chapter four of the constitution, including the right to life, can be breached. But the conditions to breach them are outlined in the same constitution. “For instance, the law allows you to kill in self defence. In the case of liberty, for El Zakzaky and his wife, the defence of the government initially they are detaining them for state security, and the court said, where are the facts? The court later ordered that

him and his wife be released and you cannot keep detaining them based on that. “The attempt to hide under the purview of national security to justify disobedience of court orders is a problem.” The senior advocate of Nigeria added that disobedience to court orders is an indirect way of “inviting anarchy and chaos”. “The constitution provides that all persons and authorities in Nigeria must comply with the decisions and judgment of competent courts so when a government says, ‘I am not going to obey court orders’, such a government is inviting anarchy and chaos,” he said. “And mind you, the rule of law transcends court orders. Once you give the impression that we operate above the law, you are inviting anarchy and chaos, and that is what is going on.” In another development, Falana has also called for increased funding for the police, stating that government funding is key to driving the success of the force. Falana, who disclosed this yesterday in Lagos at the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR)’s training programme for officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Lagos State Command, said diligent investigation is driven by adequate funding. “If you are going to carry out a diligent investigation, it must be well-funded. This is key to success of the police force.” According to him, the officers

Wike Gives Condition for Rivers Officials to Appear Before EFCC Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has said officials of the state government will appear before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) only if the anti-graft agency follows the rule of law. The EFCC had invited and quizzed the Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Peter Amangbo, over alleged N117 billion transaction by the state government in the past three years. The anti-graft agency is also seeking to quiz four officials of the state who were central to the withdrawals. Speaking at the state government house in Port Harcourt, Wike, according to The Cable, said the EFCC is “full of impunity.” He said: “I am not interested whether EFCC backs off or not. I am not against the EFCC fighting corruption, if at all they are fighting corruption. My concern is we must do it according to the law.” “The law says that we have a federation comprising the federal government, the states and the local government areas. We go to the monthly federal allocation when money comes to the federation and all tiers

take their share. The federal government is now saying that the money that comes to states will be monitored. “I was not here in 2007. Rivers State Government went to court against the EFCC to say the commission has no constitutional power to interrogate the finances, the expenses of the state government. And the matter was adequately addressed and judgment was given against EFCC. “Since 2007, EFCC has been struggling to appeal the judgment. EFCC has not succeeded up till now. What they are doing now is when they feel a government is not pro-Buhari, ‘let’s do this’.” He wondered why the EFCC was allowed to freeze the accounts of Benue and Akwa Ibom State Governments, insisting that the agency is being used as a tool by the federal government to fight opposition. “Nobody will appear before the EFCC until they follow the rule of law. This country must not allow personal interest of individuals. That is a coup against the interest of Nigeria,” he said.

of the force perform very well at United Nations peace-keeping missions because they are well equipped with necessary gadgets to perform their duties. He explained that despite having 10,000 police stations in the country, none of them are given running grants to function

and discharge its duties, stating that each of the stations should be given running grants. He remarked that there is need for provision of technology gadgets to assist the police in discharge of their duties. “For those who want state police, they must put in place

certain framework to ensure that it succeeds and get some assurance. A state government that cannot pay salaries of workers for a year, wants to arm your men and women with guns, and you will not pay them for one year, it is not possible. What you will have is a total collapse

of the society. Adequate funding will allow police to do the best investigation. Nigerians prefer the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) than the NPF because it is funded. It is the same police officers posted to Ikoyi from Ikeja,” he said.

TRAVELEX FORUM

L-R: Chairman, Association of Bureau De Change of Nigeria (ABCON), South-west, Mr. Taiwo Ebenezer; Commercial Director, Africa, Travelex, Mr. Mark Smith; Head, Corporate Relationship, Travelex, Stella Uzoebo; General Manager, Mr. Anthony Enwereji; Adviser to the Board of Travelex, Mr. Godson Evulukwu; and Director, Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Mr. Usani Francis, at the sensitisation forum for Bureau De Change proprietors held in Lagos …yesterday ETOP UKUTT

Bauchi, Katsina APC Opt for Indirect Primary Election Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi and Francis Sardauna in Katsina The Bauchi and Katsina States chapters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have opted to use delegate system or direct primary at the forthcoming primary election of the party. The Bauchi State chapter made the resolution yesterday during stakeholders’ meeting held at Zaranda Hotel, Bauchi. During the meeting, a member representing Giade Local Government Area (LGA) in the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Hon. Adamu Bello Giade, moved the motion for the adoption of indirect primary in the state, insisting that it would be more orderly and rancor-free. The motion, which was seconded by the member representing Ganjuwa East in the state assembly, Hon. Umar

Nabayi, was also supported by the majority of the participants at the meeting. In his remarks, the state APC Chairman, Uba Ahmed Nana, explained that the meeting was convened to give members opportunity to make choice on which method to adopt for the upcoming primary elections of the party in the state. Some of the attendants of the meeting include the Deputy Governor of the State Audu Sule Katagum, party executives and heavy weight politicians.END Also the Katsina State chapter of APC yesterday “unanimously” adopted indirect primary. This is even as the party endorsed the second term bid of President Muhammadu Buhari and the state Governor, Aminu Bello Masari, ahead of 2019 general polls, saying the duo remain the credible candidates. Announcing the resolution

of the party, the state APC Chairman, Alhaji Shitu Shitu, said as a follow-up to the NEC meeting, “states were given three options of direct voting, indirect (delegate) system and consensus voting. “It is based on that we in Katsina State have decided to come together as critical stakeholders to endorse the option we have chosen today and it is unanimously agreed”. He added that no amount of campaign of calumny against the president and the governor that would deter them from seeking for re-election to continue their quests to return the country and the state to path of glory. Shitu reaffirmed that the search for a credible candidate other than President Buhari may turn out to be a wild goose chase, adding: “As no politician has shown strong political will to change the economic and social

fortunes of the country”. Addressing journalists after the meeting, Governor Masari said: “Here in Katsina, we have chosen to conduct indirect primary. We have a terrible experience with direct primary in the past. “As I am talking to you, we don’t have a clear statistics of registered APC members in the state; more are coming, some have left the party. “So, it is better for us to go through a system that we can identify those who are responsible to elect on behalf of others.” Masari, however, called on Nigerians to be wary of political propagandists in the opposition camp who are bent on wielding the country back to the era of massive looting by “attempting to destroy the goodwill President Buhari enjoys among Nigerians”.

Dickson: Policemen Who Raided Clark’s House Must Be Punished Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa The Governor of Bayelsa State, Mr. Seriake Dickson, has condemned in strong terms the police raid on the Abuja residence of Ijaw national leader and elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark. Dickson insisted that those who committed the act, which he described as reprehensible, must not only be brought to book, but must be seen to have been punished by Nigerians.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Relations, Mr. Fidelis Soriwei, in a statement in Yenagoa, said the governor expressed deep anger over the incident, describing it as shocking and condemnable. Dickson said the action smacked of so much desperation, callousness and insensitivity in a country under democratic governance. He added that the action of the police showed lack of respect

for the leaders in Nigeria and the people of the Niger Delta who have made sustained efforts to ensure the prevalence of peace in the region. The governor wondered how the police and indeed any security agency could associate a 92-year old man and acclaimed leader of the Niger Delta with gun-running. He stressed that it was inconceivable, preposterous and indeed callous on the part of anybody or agency to associate the

the former Federal Commissioner for Information with such an act. He said, “I condemn in very strong terms the recent raid on the residence of Ijaw National Leader, our father, Chief Edwin Clark. “The police action signifies the height of callousness, insensitivity, and embarrassment not only to the person of the 92-year-old leader but also to the Niger Delta and indeed all Nigerians of good conscience.

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Glo Highest Gainer in Voice, Data Subscribers in July, Says NCC Report Hamid Adedeji Latest telecom industry statistics released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has shown that Globacom amassed 214,646 new subscribers in the month of July, taking its customer base to over 40.3 million. The operator which had 40,108,508 subscribers in June ended July with 40,323,154, showing an addition of 214,646 new subscribers. This was the biggest gain by any operator in July as Airtel, which came second, added 149,880 new customers, growing from 39,898,448 in June to 40,048,328 in July. On the other hand, MTN and 9mobile lost subscribers within the period. While MTN lost 999,891 subscribers, 9mobile shed 246,221 customers. The NCC report also showed that Globacom has since this

year added a total number of 2,153,374 new subscribers. As at the end of December, 2017, the company had a subscriber base of 38,169,780, whereas the figure increased to 40,323,154 in July this year. Also according to the NCC statistics, Globacom principally accounted for the growth in the number of internet users on mobile devices during the review period. Total number of data users in the country rose by 866,656, from 102.81 million in June to103.67 million in July. Globacom led the gainers’ chart with 574,821 new internet users, with its data subscription rising from 26.57 million in June to 27.15 million in July. This is 66 per cent of the total 866,656 new internet users in the industry. Airtel’s figure rose by 375,724 from 26.71 internet users in June to 27.09 million in July. MTN also gained 134,197 new data users in July as the figure

recorded was 39.07 million as against 38.94 million in June. However, 9mobile lost 218,086 internet users in July, as its subscription base fell to 10.37 million as against June when it

recorded 10.59 million. Globacom’s increasing subscriber base is said to be a result of the several attractive and user-friendly packages which offer a lot of appeal to prepaid

and postpaid phone users, thus making its services the most accessible and most affordable. For instance, the company which is marking its 15 years of operations in Nigeria, recently

launched Glo Yakata which offers up to 2,200 per cent bonus on every N100 recharge and above and Oga SIM which offers 125 per cent bonus on every data subscription.

Ebonyi APC, Delta Faction Adopt Direct Primary Election Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki and Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba The Ebonyi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has adopted the use of direct primary for all elective offices in the 2019 general elections. Also, a faction of the party in Delta State led by the party’s 2015 governorship candidate, Olorogun Otega Emerhor, and party chieftain, Chief Hyacinth Enuha, has expressed support for the adoption of direct primary in Delta State. The party noted that with the controversies surrounding the just concluded wards, local government and state congresses across the country, it was expedient to use direct primary to avoid litigations. In a statement issued yesterday, the state chairman of the party, Dr. Sylvester Nwambe disclosed that the decision was reached after the meeting of the state executive committee, stakeholders and aspirants to various offices held at the APC Secretariat in Abakaliki. The chairman said that it was in line with the party’s directives that primary elections into all elective offices shall be by direct primary or otherwise agreed by stakeholders in each state, that Ebonyi State has decided in view of prevailing circumstances, to adopt the mode of direct primary in the state. He added that the motion for the use of the direct primary was moved by the House of Representatives aspirant for Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo federal constituency, Mazi Ogbonnaya Onu and seconded by former member House of Representatives and aspirant for Ishielu/Ezza North Federal constituency, Hon. Jonathan Eze. He said that the state executive committee and stakeholders of the party in the state unanimously agreed to adopt the use of direct primaries into all elective

offices in Ebonyi state so as to promote all-inclusive participation, fairness, level playing ground, and eliminate corrupt tendencies usually associated with the indirect system of primary elections. In a related development, the leaders and elders of APC in Delta State led by the party’s 2015 governorship candidate, Olorogun Otega Emerhor and party chieftain, Chief Hyacinth Enuha, has expressed support for the adoption of direct primary in the state. In a statement by Mr. Aghogho Abraham Orotomah on behalf of the Media Team, Mainstream Members of Delta State APC and made available to THISDAY in Asaba yesterday, the party leaders and elders also commended the Adams Oshiomhole-led National Working Committee of the party for its decision on direct primary in the election of candidates for the upcoming elections. They observed that in a democracy, power resides with the people and wondered why any political leader worthy of his salt should shy away from facing the people he claims to represent through direct primary election exercise. The statement said: “It is no accident that even the advanced democracies from which we copied our presidential model, like the United States, insists on direct primaries in order to give the people a sense of ownership of the process, and the candidates a true sense of being the products of the will of the people. “It is in this light that we commend the towering wisdom of not only the leadership of the party, but that of our great national leader, President Muhammadu Buhari, who has agreed to subject his own candidacy to direct primaries, as well as the indefatigable Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu and others who have thrown their not inconsiderable weight behind this initiative.”

ALL FOR LEAH...

Former Special Assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan on New Media, Mr. Reno Omokri (middle) demonstrates with others at the Nigeria High Commission, London to commemorate 200 days of incarceration of Leah Sharibu by Boko Haram...yesterday

Atiku Bemoans Prevalence of Cancer in Nigeria EmmanuelAddehinYenagoa Former Vice President,AlhajiAbubakar Atiku, has lamented the rising cases of cancer in the country, revealing that he recently lost a loved one to the dreaded ailment. The presidential aspirant under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has also expressed commitment to partner the Henry Seriake Dickson Foundation on cancer advocacy and conduct research on the increase of the terminal disease in the country, especially in the Niger Delta. Atiku who spoke shortly after a condolence visit to the Bayelsa State Governor, Mr. Seriake Dickson, on the death of the governor’s mother,

Gold Coast, in his country home in Toru-Orua, said he lost his sister-in-law to the disease. A statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Affairs, Daniel Alabrah, said Atiku described the initiative to establish a cancer centre as laudable, saying it would help cancer patients in early detection is critical. “The cancer centre is an extremely commendable initiative. I assure the governor that I will also join him in this cancer centre development because at the same time that he lost his mother, I also lost my sister in-law to cancer. So you can see that cancer has become very common in Nigeria.

“We will definitely want to see that the cancer centre conducts research into why we have more cancer patients now than before and what we can do to prevent it. You know the best way to treat cancer is to see how we can prevent it by detecting it in time. And I want to be part of that initiative.” Atiku also gave kudos to the governor for his development efforts in the state in the areas of project execution, which he said would transform Bayelsa State into one of the modern states in the country. “I was recently in Yenagoa. I went round the projects executed and I publicly commended him for what he has done. If he continues, Bayelsa

in a very short time is going to be one of the most developed states in the country. “ He is modernising the state by introducing technology, which is going to spur more developments than anything else,” Atiku said. Dickson, in his remarks, drew the attention of the federal government to the looming health emergency in the Niger Delta, arising from over five decades of crude oil exploitation by oil companies in the region. He called for urgent measures to address the health challenge, noting that on the part of the state government, it had set up world class health facilities such as the diagnostic centre.

Osun 2018:Osinbajo Presents APC’s Guber Candidate Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo yesterday presented Gboyega Oyetola as the gubernatorial candidate of theAll Progressives Congress (APC) for Osun State at a mega rally held in Osogbo, the state capital. Also the Chairman, Campaign

Committee for Osun Election , Alhaji Abdullhai Ganduje yesterday contended that the APC in Osun State needs continuity for sustainable development of the state. Speaking at the rally, Ganduje who is the Governor of Kano State, stressed that development is needed at this time when

Governor Rauf Aregbesola had laid solid foundation. He urged voters in the state to come out en-mass and vote for APC candidate in the coming election in the state. Also Speaking the APC’s National Chairman, Adams Oshomhole noted that nobody

can help anybody to govern any state if the candidate does not have the required skills, saying Oyetola possessed the skills. He said as a former Chief of Staff to Governor Aregbesola, Oyetola would continue with the development of the state in all ramifications.

Tunji-Ojo Picks APC Nomination Forms for House of Rep One of the leading aspirants for Akoko North East/North West Federal Constituency in Ondo State, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has picked the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination and expression of interest forms to contest in the 2019 general election. After picking the forms at the APC Secretariat in Akure, Tunji-Ojo decried the high level of infrastructural decay the constituency has suffered in the past and promised that his representation would attract government attention to the plight

of the people, when elected. “The high level of decay and poor state of nearly all federal roads and other basic infrastructure in Akoko land is a major course of dissatisfaction for me,” Tunji-Ojo. “Akoko roads are the major route for traveller going to Abuja and these roads are so bad that people are scared of the bad road and are also scared of been kidnapped on the road, a journey that was supposed to take 5 hours is now taking 10 hours. He added: “I could remember in 2006 to 2007, driving on that

road is for 5 hours, but now it is something else. It then means that once you go through that road you have wasted your entire day. So productivity wise, it is making us to be less productive. “These are the major areas my representation will pay emergency attention to when elected as member of the House of Representatives in 2019.” Tunji-Ojo further stated that “Aside from being a grassroots politician, my ambition has also given me the privilege to travel round different communities and

wards in Akoko North East/ North West Federal Constituency, during this period I’ve met with stakeholders and I’ve connected more with the grassroots, I can feel the pulse of the people and I’m so confident that I have what it takes to bring the desired development and dividends of democracy to the constituency.” He also declared his support for any mode of primaries adopted by the leadership and stakeholders of the APC in Ondo State.

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LADOL Moves to Eject Samsung Heavy Industries from Lagos Free Zone Kehinde Lawal In a move that will potentially scare foreign investors in Nigeria’s free zones, Global Resources Management Limited (GRML), a subsidiary of Lagos Deep Offshore Logistics (LADOL) base is planning to eject Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) Nigeria Limited from the the LADOL free zone in Lagos, recent developments in the free zone have shown. SHI operates a fabrication and integration yard (SHI-MCI yard) in LADOL free zone, which was used to integrate the Egina Floating Production Storage Offloading (FPSO) vessel, which has sailed away to the 200,000 barrels per day Egina oilfield. he yard is the only one of its kind in Africa, designed to make Nigeria a hub of FPSO fabrication in the continent. Investigation reveals that SHI will lose over $300 million of investments if sacked from the island as it will be difficult for the Korean firm to remove the fixed assets in the yard. It was further gathered that to evacuate the fixed assets

would require dredging of the river, which will gulp millions of dollars. It was gathered that LADOL has denied SHI workers access to the integration and fabrication yard since Monday, a development that has sent wrong signals to international investors on the risks involved in investing in Nigeria’s free zones. Our correspondent, who visited the LADOL jetty in Masha Place in Ademola Street Ikoyi yesterday, saw hundreds of Nigerian workers of SHI who were stranded at the gate because they could not be allowed entry to the island to resume work at the yard. Some of the workers who spoke to journalists that witnessed the incident, said LADOL’s actions will prevent potential investors from investing in Nigeria’s free zone. “President Muhammadu Buhari is in China to woo investors but a company like LADOL is frustrating his efforts by chasing investors away. The president is in Asia with a strong delegation of governors and ministers when another Asian investor is being denied access to its investments.

How do you convince other investors that Nigeria is safe for investments? How can foreign investors come to Nigeria’s free zones when they see what is happening to Samsung?” the worker queried. He alleged that the free zone is an investor hostile location as they use their private free zone status to the detriment of enterprises. “The policies and abuse of power exhibited in the LADOL Free Zone by its operators, LADOL and GRMFZC, are against the federal government’s initiative on ease of doing business in Nigeria. This is to the detriment of Nigeria. LADOL has already killed the operations of a number of enterprises by pushing them away. Apart from Samsung, other International companies have gone underground due to LADOL’s actions. When the

companies invested in the free zone, LADOL will use one excuse or the other and will not renew their licence so that they abandon the investments,” he explained. Another SHI worker who spoke to journalists said it was SHI that brought LADOL to national limelight with the fabrication and integration of the Egina FPSO in the free zone. “LADOL used to be a deserted logistics base without much activity away from Onne, Rivers State and Bayelsa State. However, with hard work of Samsung Heavy Industries as the Contractor to Total for the execution of the Egina Project and its success story, LADOL has received more attention than it deserves. LADOL is only a logistics operating company with a Private Jetty. LADOL does not have a Port or a fabrication and integration yard.

LADOL advertises and leverages on Samsung’s Fabrication and Integration yard as if it is owned by LADOL,” the worker added. “We suspect that LADOL’s ultimate goal is to take over Samsung’s fabrication and integration yard by any means possible. The refusal to renew SHI-MCI’s Operating licence is one of the steps LADOL has taken to achieve its goal. Blocking us from going to work as you can see this morning is the second step. LADOL lures investors into the LADOL Free Zone with investor friendly incentives. However, once the enterprise commences operations, LADOL issues directives to frustrate the enterprise’s operations,” he added. The third SHI worker who spoke to journalists, alleged that “LADOL’s mis-representation in the media has gone overboard

and did not expect that LADOL’s lies and mis-information of the public would go this far to the extent that they claim that LADOL partnered with Total to execute the Egina Project. LADOL is trying to attract local and foreign investors by claiming in the media that it is a major stakeholder in the Egina Project which is not the case. It is unethical to misrepresent the true state of facts to the public and LADOL’s actions are a clear indication of how far they can go to achieve their ultimate goal”. THISDAY gathered that LADOL’s grouse is that SHI resorted to supervisory and regulatory agencies whenever LADOL denied them the basic rights and services that have been already paid for by SHI in advance and already agreed in the agreement.

Over 10 Imo Governorship Aspirants Pick APGA Nomination Form Alex Oti, Udensi, Kanu unveil action plan Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Additional 10 governorship aspirants have so far obtained nomination forms to vie for the ticket of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) in the 2019 general elections. Some of the governorship aspirants who came to collect their nomination forms in the last two days include, former Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Sam Amadi; Okey Eze; Daniel Kanu; Bright Nwanne and Uche Onyeaguche. Kanu, who picked his nomination form yesterday, said elections have already been won and lost in Imo state. He said Rochas Okorocha wants to remain in government through a proxy. He vowed to work with people of like minds and end Okorocha’s political dynasty in Imo state. “The election has already conducted itself because I believe that our people are very democratically-driven. “The current governor was elected in 2011 and he defeated a sitting governor then under the PDP and it was done through APGA and we the people made it happen,” he said. Also addressing journalists after obtaining his nomination form from the headquarters of APGA, a governorship aspirant in Imo State, and former NERC chairman, Sam Amadi, said a process to end the legacy of deceit, corruption and audacious immorality in Imo State has begun. Amadi who boasted that he is the most qualified to fly the flag of APGA, said since the end of Sam Mbakwe’s era in the state, “418 operatives have hijacked political power. They have carried out unbridled stealing of public

wealth and criminality. “Those who invaded political leadership in Imo state and built this infrastructure of poverty and misery have consolidated their political power in the state through continuous impoverishment of the citizens.” Meanwhile, a leading governorship aspirant in Abia State, Mr. Alex Oti, yesterday, decried the high level of insecurity in the state. According to him, the state governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, has failed to secure lives and property of the people, since he assumed office in 2015. Oti made the assertion at the national secretariat of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), when he picked his governorship nomination form. He told journalists that he was robbed of his mandate in 2015, but vowed to resist a repeat of that in 2019. The former banker said the failure of the state government to uplift the lives of the people will make his victory easy. He said: “We are ready to take over the leadership of Abia state. The good news is that, the present government in Abia state has failed. . “The people have realised it and they are ready to take back their state. We are reclaiming our state.” Another governorship aspirant who piked form yesterday, Chike Udensi said that time has come for APGA to ensure that whoever it would give its ticket would be one that can win and protect the votes. He pledged to use his vast experiences and contacts as a international security consultants to ensure that there conducive environment for economic growth in Abia state.

WE APPRECIATE YOU...

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State (right), receiving souvenirs from the President of Inter Party Women’s Network (IPWN), Hon. Nneoma Josephine Nwokedike , when the women group paid the governor a solidarity visit at the Government House, Enugu, yesterday.

2019: ADC Offers Automatic Tickets to 23 Federal, 95 State Lawmakers Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Ahead of the 2019 general election, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has revealed that it has offered automatic tickets to 23 National Assembly members and 95 state assembly members. The party also said it would work with the coalition of political parties to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (ADC) in the 2019 elections.

The National Chairman of ADC, Chief Ralph Nwosu, disclosed these yesterday at a press briefing after the party’s 61st National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja. He noted that the lawmakers were being rewarded for coming out publicly to declare for the party, while also announcing that the party would grant 50 percent discount on nomination forms to people less than 40 years.

The chairman also said women and physically challenged persons have option of paying for the forms. Nwosu explained that the lawmakers are 95 from the state, 18 House of Representatives and 5 Senator’s. He stated that “some will regard special treatment as discriminatory. We know the qualities of people we brought out and we assure them that they will deliver. They can hold the party responsible if

they fail.” The chairman announced that the party primaries for the House of Assembly would hold on September 29; governorship October 2; National Assembly October 4 while the presidential primary will take place on October 6. He also revealed that the party would hold a special convention in Osun State to address structural amendments and the constitution to reflect the new status of the party.

Osinbajo to Deliver Ikoyi Club’s 80th Anniversary Lecture The Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osibajo will on September 27, 2018 deliver the 80th anniversary lecture of Ikoyi Club as part of the activities lined up to celebrate the event. The 80th anniversary, which will be celebrated in grand style as Nigeria’s foremost and prestigious family club, kicked off with the

unveiling of the anniversary logo on August 24. The Chairman of the Anniversary committee, Dr. Adekunle Wright said in a statement yesterday that several programmes have been outlined to mark the landmark event. According to the statement, sectional games competitions

for members and staff holds from Sept 17 to 23, while business to business exhibitions commences on Sept 24. Also elders evening holds on September 26, the statement said. The club is embarking on a nine- kilometre charity walk on September 22 to create awareness for its social

responsibility initiative as part of the anniversary. A major highlight of the anniversary is the anniversary lecture to be delivered by the Vice-President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo on September 27.The climax of the 80th anniversary is the anniversary dance and award night which holds on Saturday September 29, 2018.

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Sokoto Victims of Bandits’ Attack Seek Military Protection Mohammed Aminu in Sokoto Victims of bandits’ attack in Tabanni village of Rabah Local Government Area (LGA) of Sokoto State, yesterday appealed to security agencies in the state, to provide them with

adequate security to enable them harvest and evacuate their farm produce. The spokesman of the victims, Malam Hantsi Marafa, made the plea during an interview with journalists at the Internally Displaced Persons camp (IDPs) in Gandi town of

Okowa Harps on Need to Revitalise Agric Sector Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, has reiterated the need to focus and re-energise the agriculture sector of the country’s economy in the light of country’s bid to diversify the economy from oil. Okowa, who made the call at this year’s Forum of the Agriculture and Allied Employees Union of Nigeria (AAEUN), said the agriculture sector was an important sector and one of the boosters of the country’s economy. Represented by his Special Adviser on SERVICOM and Labour Relations, Mr. Mike Okeme, the governor said his administration’s SMART Agenda placed premium on agriculture and entrepreneurship aimed at mobilising the youths towards gainful employment and job creation. The state government had engaged a lot of jobless youths in the state in different sectors, departments and programmes in agriculture in Delta state, the governor revealed. The Chairman of the Forum, Dr Bartholomew Nyalas, commended the governor for the synergy and inter-labour relationship as well as his commitment to the welfare of civil servants in the state. He said that the state was a

key driver in the agricultural sector and stressed the need for all hands to be on deck in this regard while chaging for AAEUN members to be involved in the decision making process that affect agriculture development in states and the national at large. In a key note address, the Delta State Chairman of AAEUN, Comrade Pamela Gbemudu, noted that agriculture was the only business allowed by law to be embarked upon by civil servants and called on AAEUN members to take advantage of the opportunity to enhance their wellbeing and assist to grow the nations’ economy. Gbemudu, equally commended Okowa for facilitating the host of meeting in Delta state, adding that the exchange of ideas and knowledge at the meeting would go a long way at taking the union to a greater and higher level. She further commended the efforts of the National President of AAEUN, Comrade Simon Anchare, and General Secretary, Comrade Sunday Altokhuehi towards enhancing the lives of agriculture professionals in the country through the pursuance of hazard allowance which was recently approved by the national assembly. The meeting was attended by Chairmen of AAEUN from the different states of the country.

Ex-minister Adeyeye Declares for Senate in Ekiti Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti Former Minister of Works, Prince Adedayo Adeyeye, on yesterday declared for Senate on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), to represent Ekiti South senatorial district in 2019. Adeyeye defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC before the July 14 governorship election in Ekiti State due to his irreconcilable differences with Governor Ayodele Fayose. He promised to give the district the expected democratic dividends, if elected. The former PDP national publicity secretary declared that he decided to join the race , having extracted commitments from the national, zonal and state leaders of the party, whom he said had already endorsed his aspiration. The ex-minister berated Governor Fayose over alleged appropriation of N75 million worth Lexus Jeep as parting gift and payment of N43 million severance Allowance to himself and his Deputy, Prof. Kolapo Olusola when he had failed

to pay salaries in the last eight months. “I have always identified Fayose as a selfish person. He is a looter and only think of himself alone”, he alleged . He expressed confidence that the governor-elect, Dr Kayode Fayemi won’t disappoint Ekiti, saying all the 133 towns and villages will benefit from his government. Adeyeye declared for Senate at Ise Ekiti during the senatorial meeting of the party held in his home and attended by party’s bigwigs and aspirants from the zone. “I want to thank the youths, elders and leaders of the party for the way they mobilized during the July 14 election. I was the happiest man in Ekiti over the way the APC chased away Governor Fayose. “I decided to return to APC, because I was a foundation member of Alliance for Democracy. I was the Publicity Secretary of the party at a time and I remained in the party until Action Congress was formed. So, I only returned home not that I defected,” he added.

Rabah LGA. He said the call became necessary, as the crops they planted in the village before the attacks were ripe for harvest. Marafa explained that the crops planted by the farmers included maize, beans, soya beans groundnut, millet, among others.

He emphasised that since the attack on the village by bandits, which led to loss of lives of over 40 villagers, they had been living in a camp in Gandi town of Rabah LGA. Marafa said the victims were scared of going back to the village to harvest and evacuate their crops for fear of attack by bandits.

“As you are aware, we planted our crops before the attack on our community by bandits which led to loss of lives of many p e o p l e . “Since then, we have been living in a camp in Gandi town and currently being assisted by the state government for o u r daily needs. “However, the crops we

planted are due for harvest but we are afraid to go back to our farms because of fear of bandits who are still hiding in the bush. “Therefore, we are pleading with security agencies especially the military to provide us with security to enable us go back and harvest the crops,” he said.

YOU ARE WELCOME...

L-R: Senator Mohammed Sani Saleh; Chairman NUJ Kaduna State Ccouncil, Adamu Yusuf; Senator Representing Kaduna Central, Senator Shehu Sani at a press conference in support of direct primaries in Kaduna State ...yesterday

Leah Sharibu: Omokri Leads Protest in London to Mark 200 Days of Abduction Martins Ifijeh Former Spokesman to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Reno Omikro yesterday led a protest at the Nigeria’s High Commission in London, to demand the release of Leah Sharibu, who was abducted by Boko Haram 200 days ago. Leah was among the schoolgirls kidnapped

in Dapchi, Yobe State, by the insurgents, but was held back when others were released because she refused to convert to Islam. Speaking at the protest, Omokri called Leah’s mum, Rubecca Sharibu on the phone in front of the camera and encouraged her to stand firm. He said: “The Nigerian government should

negotiate her release since the insurgent group had released an audio to show that she is alive. President Muhammadu Buhari, do everything within your power to secure her release. Don’t try to use that to score political points and then keep her and then maybe release her when it’s time for the elections. Let her go now,” Omokri said.

He condemned the terrorist group for the continuous detention of Leah, stating that the act was anti-Islam and antiQuran. “What you are doing is wrong. Release Leah Sharibu,” he said. He affirmed that Leah’s mother has thanked Nigerians for their support and begged the Nigerian government to ensure her daughter ’s release.

Rivers West Urges Wike to Back Ezekiel-Hart’s Senatorial Bid Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has been passionately called upon by the people of the Rivers West senatorial zone to back their son and senatorial aspirant, Mr. Allen Ezekiel-Hart for the senate in 2019 general elections. The people, under the auspices of the New Rivers West Alliance (NRWA) urged Wike to support their candidate, Ezekiel-Hart to replace Senator Osy Ideazu who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and has also indicated interest not return to the National Assembly in 2019. Speaking with journalists in Lagos, the New Rivers West Alliance led by Dr. Eric Jumbo and Dr. Nimi Micah said Ezekiel-Hart is the best candidate to replace Senator

Ideazu and should get the backing of the governor and the people of the zone. The group said that Ezekiel-Hart, an outstanding businessman, represents the voiceless minorities and stands for one of the wealthiest local governments in the country but yet without a commensurate presence of the federal government. “Ezekiel-Hart will bring a robust and resounding voice of reasoning and push for a socio-economic and entrepreneurial vibrancy in Rivers West Senatorial Zone and Rivers State in general,” the group further explained. Also speaking, EzekielHart appealed to the people of the Rivers West Senatorial Zone “to consider me as the fresh and timely choice to

oust the perpetual dominance of all the minorities within the zone, indeed the good choice to replace continuity of self-serving money bags. “I will be a voice to secure the interest of the youths. I know first-hand the challenges and difficult choice they faceon daily basis, I understand their language, high and low points. In the red chamber, I will speak for their specific needs. “I come from the local government area (Bonny Local Government Council) that hosts the largest petroleum and gas companies--Shell Petroleum Development Company tank farm-the largest in Africa, the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Company amongst other oil and gas majors as well as the local government that

contributes about 25 per cent of the nations Gross Domestic Product (GDP), yet has not been able to produce a single senator since the beginning of this democratic dispensation,” he said. Ezekiel-Hart said that time is right now for his people to be given a chance to produce a senator who can better harness the abundant skills and resources of the zone and that he is ready to step into that responsibility. The senatorial aspirant who authored a book on Governor Wike in 2015 --’Fifty Reasons to Choose Wike’--at the height of his governorship campaign, said, “I stand for a synergy between the Red chamber in Abuja and theBrick House in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.”

he of ng an ol at, s; oip

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FRIDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Rohr: Eagles Are in Seychelles for Serious Business Duro Ikhazuagbe Super Eagles Franco-German Coach, Gernot Rohr, insisted yesterday that the three-time African champions will need to show character and form in order to put Nigeria’s dream of qualifying for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) back on track. Nigeria is going into the AFCON 2019 Match-day 2 qualifying round in third position of Group E. Eagles lost their opening game to South Africa in Uyo while Libya whitewashed Seychelles to take the driver’s seat of the group. “Everyone realizes the importance of this match. We are currently number three in our group and that position does not befit Super Eagles of Nigeria. It is not good for us because it is outside the qualification range. “The players know this. They know that on Saturday they have to show character to put our campaign back on track with a good result,� Rohr warned yesterday. Seychelles is a leading tourist destination with plane-loads of fun seekers trooping in on daily basis to spend good time relaxing on any of the major islands in the 115 islands that make up the archipelago.

Super Eagles players and coaching crew in a group photograph after training on the Savoy Hotel and Spa beach front‌ yesterday evening

After the one-hour training session, attended by all 21 players available for the match slated for the Stade Linite on Saturday, Rohr made it clear his boys are not vacationers looking for relaxation. “We are not here on vacation. We are here for serious business.� Instead of taking the hosts for granted, Rohr stressed that

Golden Eaglets Hammer Côte d’Ivoire 5-1 U-17 AFCON QUALIFIER The Golden Eaglets revived their hopes of qualifying for the U17 AFCON in Tanzania next year after they outclassed Cote d’Ivoire 5-1 in a second group game in Niamey, Niger, yesterday, after they lost their opening game to Burkina Faso. The Manu Garba led team will now wait till the weekend when Burkina Faso tackles Cote d’Ivoire to know whether they finish top of Group B or runners-up.

Star man Akinwunmi Amoo sporting jersey No 13 was outstanding for the Nigeria youngsters and was named Man of the Match. Skipper Samson Tijani also shone as he was a big screen to the Eaglets defence. The Eaglets raced to 2-0 lead after 10 minutes. They scored two more goals in the first half before they made it 5-0 in the second half.

AFCON 2019 QUALIFIER the Pirates will not be taken for granted as any slip could be very costly to Nigeria’s ambition at the moment. “We have a young, ambitious team and Nigeria has a better pedigree in the game of football than Seychelles. But

with the 12 teams ranked according to the combined points of their top five players - three men and two women - from the current NCC Rankings “We are excited that the teams are attracting a lot of corporate support with a leading insurance firm and a State Governor among the

with determination to win the remaining matches in our group to qualify easily for the championship.� Saturday’s Group E tie, which is one of the Match day 2 fixtures happening across the African continent, will start at 4.30pm Seychelles time (1.30pm Nigeria time) at the 10,000-capacity Stade Linite in Victoria on Mahe Island.

OborududuTargets World Championship Gold Reigning Commonwealth champion, Blessing Oborududu, has said her target is to claim a gold medal at the upcoming Senior World Wrestling Championships in Budapest, Hungary, next month. The eight-time African champion, who won a maiden gold medal in the 68kg weight class at the Commonwealth Games earlier this year in Gold Coast, Australia, is among the wrestlers who will be vying for honours for Team Nigeria in Budapest from October 20th

2018 NCCTennis League Draws to Hold in AbujaToday The 2018 NCC Tennis League is set to kickoff with the draws ceremony taking place at the Abuja National Stadium Tennis Centre at 4 pm this afternoon. A statement from the International Tennis Academy, organisers of the league, said the draws will be done “FIFA style�

we must not under-rate them in any way or take things for granted. Rather than sulk over the inability of the Super Eagles to progress beyond the group stage of the World Cup in Russia, Rohr believes the lessons learnt

at the Mundial ought to help Nigeria become a better team. “The World Cup is behind us now, but we must allow the lessons we learnt in Russia to make us better and more efficient in our approach. “The Cup of Nations is the focus now and we must get a good result on Saturday to get our campaign back, and then we can now look ahead

team sponsors for this year. Four new teams have also entered the race for the big prize.� The statement said. Last year’s winners got seven million naira while the runner-up team took home five million. The third and fourth place teams got three and two million respectively.

to 28th. Last year, Oborududu narrowly missed out of winning a bronze medal at the World Championships in Paris, France, losing 7-8 to Colombia’s Jackeline Castillo in a third-place bout, and she poised to make amends and upgrade this time. “My target at the World Championships is to go there and do well. Not just doing well in the World Championships, but to win a gold medal,� she said. “I also know that the World

Championships is not like the African Championships or the Commonwealth Games. There are a lot of very tough wrestlers there, but by the grace of God and with a good preparation, I’m hoping that I’m going to win a gold medal. � The wrestling queen disclosed that preparation for the World Championships has already begun, while calling on Nigerians to support the team in their bid to make the country proud in Budapest. “We are all training in our various states,� the Bayelsa-

born athlete said. “But the President (Hon. Daniel Igali) just called a camp (in Yenagoa) where all of us can be together and prepare for the World Championships. The President has done enough for the wrestlers. “And we are pleading to the public to support the president of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (Hon. Daniel Igali) and the government; so that we can have a good camp in preparation for the World Championships,� concludes the wrestler.

Quadri, Meshref AreTop Seeds as Singles Serves off Nigeria’s Aruna Quadri and Egypt’s Dina Meshref have been seeded as top seeds as the singles event of the 2018 ITTF African Championships serves off on Friday September 7, 2018 in Mauritius. Action will return to the Beau Bassin Sports Complex after a one-day rest following the conclusion of the team event on Wednesday September 5 with Nigeria and Egypt picking the slots for Africa to the 2019 ITTF World Team Cup in Tokyo, Japan.

ITTF AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS In the absence of the defending champion – Egypt’s Omar Assar, Aruna Quadri was named the Number One seed and he will start his campaign from the second round (round of 32) after getting a bye from the first round. Also, as the second seed in the men’s singles, Egypt’s Ahmed Saleh also got a bye to the second round and the third seed is Egypt’s Mohammed

El-Beiali who had a bye to the second round as well. Aside Meshref who got a bye to the second round, Nigeria’s Olufunke Oshonaike seeded number two also had a bye to the second round. Also the men and women doubles event will precede the kick-off of the singles event while the semifinal of the mixed doubles will hold as well on same day.

GOtv Boxing NextGen Search 4: NBB of C Lauds Sponsors The Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C) has described as immense the support given to Nigerian boxing by Pay TV company, GOtv, through GOtv Boxing Night and GOtv Boxing NextGen Search. Speaking in Lagos yesterday, Secretary-General of NBB of C, Mr. Remi Aboderin, said the decision of the Pay TV

company to introduce GOtv Boxing NextGen Search, an initiative for unearthing young and talented boxers ready to turn professional, has addressed the scarcity of good professional boxers in the country. “GOtv Boxing NextGen Search has addressed the problem of ageing boxers by replacing them with young and

vibrant ones. Every young boxer should take advantage of the initiative. The fourth edition is almost here and I advise every young boxer to enroll, “ he said. GOtv Boxing NextGen Search will hold in Abeokuta from 13-15 September. The programme, organised by Flykite Productions, will see

boxers aged between 18 and 25, take part in sparring sessions and assessed by the best boxing coaches, who will select those adjudged to be the best. It will hold at Dunkin Pepper Gym inside the MKO International Stadium Complex. Boxers selected by the coaches will have their licences paid for by the sponsors, undergo

free medical examination and may have the opportunity of fighting in coming editions of GOtv Boxing Night. The programme was introduced in 2015.The first two editions held in Lagos, while the third held in Ibadan. Each edition drew 100 boxers, out of which an average of 25 selected The programme has

catapulted many boxers into the big time, locally and internationally. Among these are reigning West African welterweight champion, Rilwan “Baby Face� Babatunde, Ridwan “Scorpion� Oyekola, Prince “Lion� Nwoye, Chukwuebuka “Wize King� Ezewudo and Osamudiamen “Chiso� Goodluck.

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FRIDAYSPORTS US OPEN 2018

Djokovic Marches Flawlessly into Semi Final Novak Djokovic reached the US Open semi-finals after continuing his flawless record in the last eight with victory over Roger Federer’s conqueror John Millman. The 31-year-old earned a 6-3 6-4 6-4 victory over the Australian world number 55. The Serb, twice champion at Flushing Meadows, has now won all 11 of his quarter-final matches in New York. He goes on to play Japan’s Kei Nishikori in the last four on Friday. Djokovic missed last year’s tournament with an elbow injury but has now reached at least the semi-finals in every appearance at Flushing Meadows since 2007. The victory was not as easy for the sixth seed as the scoreline suggested, Australian Millman providing stoic resistance before Djokovic came through to take his first match point after two hours 49 minutes, just before midnight local time. Djokovic has gone on to reach the final seven times from those 11 straight last-four appearances, and victory over Nishikori would move him alongside Pete Sampras and Ivan Lendl’s record appearances total in the men’s showpiece. A bigger piece of history awaits, however, if he can go all the way in New York - a 14th Grand Slam victory would rank him alongside Sampras, and behind only Federer (20) and Nadal (17), in major triumphs. But first he had to get past the energetic Millman on another stuffy night on Arthur Ashe Stadium. Djokovic had breezed past the Australian on grass at Queen’s Club in June - their only previous meeting - dropping just three games. This time he was made to work much harder.

Djokovic is having a good run at the ongoing US Open in New York

The former world number one missed 16 of 20 break points, and was pegged back from 3-1 up in the third set, before winning 12 of the final 15 points to advance. Heat causes more problems as Millman forced off court A failure to convert break points was not the only problem faced by Djokovic. Not for the first time at the tournament he struggled in the conditions which, although still hot and humid, appeared much easier than on previous nights. He was given some tablets during the second set - but declined to say what they were when asked in his post-match media conference.

Reigning World Champion Stripped of Asian Games Gold Mongolian reigning world champion Orkhon Purevdorj has been stripped of the gold medal she claimed in the women’s 62 kilogramme event at the Asian Games in Jakarta and Palembang after she tested positive for a banned substance. The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) confirmed Purevdorj had been disqualified as a result of the failed in-competition drugs test. Purevdorj tested positive for anabolic steroid during the Games in the two Indonesian cities, which concluded with the Closing Ceremony last Sunday The 24-year-old, who clinched the gold medal in the 63kg class at last year’s World Wrestling Championships in Paris, is facing a lengthy ban from the sport. She becomes the second wrestler to be embroiled in a doping case stemming from the 2018 Asian Games. Turkmenistani wrestler Rustem Nazarov, who exited the tournament at the firstround stage, tested positive for furosemide, a masking agent, in a pre-competition urine test. Purevdorj, also the reigning Asian champion who competed for Mongolia at the 2016 Sum-

mer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, beat Kyrgyzstan’s Aisuluu Tynybekova to secure the Asian Games title. In a statement, the OCA said the Mongolian athlete had been “found to have committed an anti-doping rule violation in an in-competition test conducted on August 20 and has accordingly been disqualified from the 18th Jakarta Palembang Asian Games 2018�. “Her results during the competition held on the 20th August 2018 has been annulled,� the OCA said. The news comes after insidethegames revealed last month that wrestlers accounted for six of the 10 positive doping cases that resulted from the 2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Turkmenistan’s capital Ashgabat. Four Mongolian wrestlers also failed drugs test at an event in the country last December. Increasing awareness of antidoping was said to be a key priority for the OCA at the 2018 Asian Games, where German company Professional Worldwide Controls administered the drugs testing system.

“I personally have never sweat as much as I have here. Incredible. I have to take at least 10 shirts for every match. It’s literally after two games and you’re soaking,� Djokovic said. “I asked the chair umpire whether they are using some form of ventilation or air conditioning down at the court level, and he says that ‘he’s not aware of it’, that, you know, only what comes through the hallway type of thing. “I think that this tournament needs to address this. I mean, because whether it’s night or day, we just don’t have air down there. It feels like sauna.� Djokovic was also given time violations in successive points

when serving at 3-2 in the third set, meaning he lost his first serve while break point down, and Millman duly capitalised. The Australian also suffered with the heat, having to disappear off court at 2-2 in the second set to change his sweat-soaked kit. “[In] these night matches, the humidity goes through the roof,� he said. “It is tricky, but it’s the same for both people. You’re dripping. But, that’s no excuse or anything. I’d play in a swimming pool if I got to play a quarter-final every week at a Grand Slam.� Ball boys and girls had to wipe the court with towels between games, and the USTA

issued a statement afterwards confirming the chair umpire allowed Millman to leave the court after determining the surface was “dangerous�. Millman leaves with reputation and ranking enhanced Millman produced a big shock when he inflicted a four-set defeat on Swiss second seed Federer in the last 16, ending the possibility of a meeting between two of the game’s greats in the quarter-finals. The affection of the New York crowd followed Millman into his match against Djokovic - and he thrived on the backing. The 29-year-old, often chatting and interacting with his supporters in the stands, fed

off the crowd’s energy as he continued to frustrate Djokovic. He entertained them with some remarkable retrieving, in addition to clutch serving and the odd brilliant winner, on his way to seeing off 11 break points - between the ones Djokovic did convert for a 2-0 lead in the first set and a 5-4 advantage in the second. But he was unable to test the Serb’s serve often and when he did, breaking back to level the third set at 3-3, Djokovic hit straight back. Nevertheless he will leave New York with an enhanced reputation and a career-high ranking of 37 after reaching his first Grand Slam quarter-final.

Guinea’s Camara Quits Football Due to Heart Condition G Guinea international Abdoul ‘Razza’ Camara has been forced ‘R to quit football due to a heart condition. c The 28-year-old former Derby County player has been advised C to stop playing with immediate effect. e “I cannot go on because I’m at a risk of cardiac arrest or dying on o the pitch like a lot of other players,� he told French website p footmercato yesterday. fo Last month his French club Guingamp announced that he G would not play for the club w again, due to medical reasons. a “We have to move on, even if it’s hard to accept� Camara said. sa “I’ve been waiting for the news for three weeks. I tried n to stay strong just in case. “Since I was 13, my life is football. I had struggled to fo come back after my cruciate c ligament injury. And there, you li are a told that you will never wear a football shirt again. w “We can say that it is an evil for fo a good. But I have not yet digested this. You can not digest d that th fast. I need time. “Yes, it’s not like an injury where you can fight back. With w this th I can not do anything. Everything falls apart at that E moment.� m When Guingamp announced

Camara

he was leaving the management said it would continue to provide support for the player. “The club helps me in many ways. They are there for me,� he added. “The president (Bertand Desplat) is really there to support me. He is close to me. If I need him or the club, I know they will be there.� Camara is already looking to the future.

“Right now, I want to discover other sides of football. I have former coaches who have spoken to. Former club presidents have called me too,� he said. “Maybe I’ll go by their side to learn, and one day I’ll really know what I want to do.� Camara played 26 games and scored just once during his time at Derby, netting in the FA Cup fourth round replay defeat to Leicester in the 2015-16 season.

The much-travelled and vastly experienced Camara has previously played for French outfits Rennes and Sochaux, Greek club PAOK and Spanish side Mallorca. Camara began his professional career in France and represented them at under-17, under-18 and under-21 level. He opted to play for Guinea as a senior international and featured 16 times for his country of birth, scoring four goals.

Friday, September 7, 2018

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MISSILE Atiku to Osinbajo “Choose whether he is for restructuring or whether he is against it and stick to his choice. This continuous prevarication, this approbation and reprobation, helps no one, least of all true progressives who know that Nigeria needs to be restructured and restructured soon” – Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar disagreeing with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on the need to restructure the polity.

AKINOSUNTOKUN DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA

akin.osuntokun@thisdaylive.com

Bomb Blast From Femi Adesina “A

kin Oshuntokun appeared on Channels television today and made the false claim that a bomb blast had gone off earlier in the day, killing about 88 people in Maiduguri… Apparently, enemies of peace and progress had expected a return to the infamous past, thus Oshuntokun appeared on television with his bag of lies. The tripod goals of securing the country, fighting corruption and reviving the economy are central to the Buhari administration. Government is making strides in the three areas and the conquests continue” –Femi Adesina, 24th August 2018 “President Muhammadu Buhari demonstrated his cluelessness afresh on Sunday when he blamed herders’ act of horrific violence on the shrinking Lake Chad and alleged biased media reports. .. Across the country, especially in Northern states, churches, homes, farms and passenger-laden vehicles are brazenly attacked, villages razed and taken over while police and soldiers are also killed in droves. The sanguinary activities of Fulani herdsmen, together with those of Boko Haram, have earned Nigeria the dubious distinction of being third after Iraq and Afghanistan, in the League of Nations with the worst form of terrorism globally”-Punch newspaper editorial, 4th September 2018 “Amnesty International counted 168 killed in January alone, while the Benue State Government said Fulani marauders killed over 1,500 persons, including soldiers and policemen, in 47 different attacks in the three years to February this year. At least, 14 persons were again brutally murdered in Plateau State yesterday… Before he became President, Buhari had similarly demonstrated jaundiced diagnosis of the Boko Haram’s evil mission. For instance, in 2013, he asked the government to stop its clampdown on Boko Haram because Niger Delta militants were never killed, nor were their property destroyed. At another point, he led a team to Oyo State to protest the alleged killings of the Fulani people by Oyo farmers. It turned out however that it was the herdsmen who were actually doing most of the killings”-Punch newspaper editorial, 4th September 2018 Reporting for Reuters news agency on the 20th of August 2018, Ahmed Kingimi wrote ‘- At least 19 people were killed in an Islamist militant attack on a village in northeast Nigeria in the early hours of Sunday, a survivor of the attack, Umar, said he had counted 19 people killed, including his younger brother. An aid worker at a camp that received the survivors, and who declined to be identified, put the death toll at 63’. On another news report platform I read of 88 people rescued in a foiled Boko Haram attack by the Nigerian army. Haven acquired a certain reputation as a tireless critic of President Muhammadu Buhari I get regularly invited by the electronic media especially the Channels Television to give counter perspectives in panel discussion segments on the Buhari Presidency. This aspiration for balanced coverage is a time honored tradition of a responsible press and

Buhari

liberal democracy. Often characterised as the public watchdog, the media plays the role of holding the government accountable to the people. This role reinforces and overlaps the institutional opposition role of the opposition political parties in multi-party democracies. This is the general context within which I function as a pundit and opposition megaphone. More than many commentators, I specialise in the critique and criticism of the political status quo and specifically its current personification namely President Buhari. And if I am accused of stridency in the tone and tenor of my criticism, I will plead guilty as charged. But taking a cue from the law of physics (that action and reaction are equal and opposite) I will plead the extenuating circumstance of proportionality-of such stridency being a commensurate response to the subsisting amplification of Nigeria’s self-destructive streak, a self-propelling momentum towards the political abyss. In a fundamental sense, the Buhari Presidency has been a betrayal and negation of the positive political momentum he inherited from the circumstances of his accession to the Nigerian Presidency in 2015. His incumbency has become an embodiment of almost all that is wrong with the Nigerian political status-quocrude hegemony, incompetence, corruption, parochialism, divisiveness, illiberalism and obsession with political power. Proceeding from the logic of reciprocity I do not expect my critical opposition standpoint to be reciprocated with charitable disposition from the camp of the President and if I goofed in my criticism the government is perfectly entitled to make maximum hay of my lapse. And so, (if in alluding to the prevalent and pervasive nature of its deplorable record in the management of the national security crisis), I got my facts mixed up-they were at liberty to accuse me of telling ‘lies’. If rather than the figure of 63 dead, I erroneously gave 88, I have myself to blame and whatever the exploitation of the momentary lapse, it comes with the territory. But they are not at liberty to put words in my mouth. Yet the Presidential spokesperson, Mr Femi Adesina, in a fit of rage and animus I could

never have imagined, issued a statement and proclaimed ‘Akin Osuntokun made the false claim that a bomb blast had gone off earlier in the day killing about 88 people in Maiduguri’! Apparently whatever purpose the statement was intended to achieve could only be realised with emphasis and repeated reference to bomb blast. In a statement of less than 500 words, bomb blast alone was accorded the frequency of five repetitions. Yet the correct position (as can be publicly verified) is that Akin Osuntokun made no such false claim, the honour for that false claim belongs to the author of the claim that ‘Akin Osuntokun made the false claim that a bomb blast had gone off earlier in the day’. Recall that unlike me, Adesina was not speaking off the cuff, his was the wellrehearsed affectation of a written palace court judgement unloading righteous indignation on a brazen conspiratorial liar (of his own imagination) with the imprimatur of the Nigerian Presidency-do they come more authoritative than that? To what then do we attribute the alarming testimony of a bomb blast? Absent mindedness?, or deliberate orchestration of giving the dog a bad name in order to hang it? The tragedy is that while chasing this shadow and within a couple of days of attempting to make me a fall guy, the grievous inability of this government to grapple with calamitous national security breaches was again laid bare in the following recurrences-among others unreported: “Even a heart made of stone will melt at the sight of the roasted corpse of a 67-year-old Adamu Gyang Wurim. His wife, Jummai Adamu Gyang, 45, and their three children: Theophilus Adamu Gyang, 20, Dung Adamu Gyang, 12 and 8-year old Wurim Adamu Gyang, were equally not left out. They were locked in the house and roasted like chickens

when armed killer herdsmen invaded some communities of Foron District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area on Tuesday August 29, 2018, leaving 10 persons dead, 95 houses burnt and 225 farms with crops awaiting harvest were looted and destroyed”. Mr Gwom Pam Dusu, a Financial Secretary of Roman Catholic Church of Ziyat, gave a vivid account of another gory incident at Ziyat village where four persons were killed and several houses burnt. ‘Reeling from the killings of a pastor, his wife, three children and three others in Barakin-Ladi local government area of Plateau State last week, another 13 people were killed by gunmen on Sunday in Jos South council area. Nigerian Tribune learnt that the gunmen who were in two Hilux vans on Sunday swopped on a group of people relaxing in front of the hotel at Lopandet Dwei Du Area of Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State’. ‘Over 40 soldiers have been lost to rampaging Boko Haram terrorists in the last two weeks, despite claims by the military that the Islamic terror sect had been “technically defeated”. This is in addition to the military’s loss of some of their prized weapons, including five gun trucks, to the insurgents. In the latest attack by the insurgents on Thursday, 26 soldiers were killed in Northern Borno’. ‘Boko Haram insurgents on Wednesday hijacked a commercial bus and kidnapped the 20 passengers on board in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital’. This is the trend of events Adesina celebrated as “The tripod goals of securing the country, fighting corruption and reviving the economy are central to the Buhari administration. Government is making strides in the three areas and the conquests continue”

MTN Again! The story of the Nigerian telecoms giants, MTN, is fast degenerating into a narrative of hero to villain. The company literarily took Nigeria by storm. Its entry into the telecoms industry 17 years ago on the coattails of the liberalisation policy of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidency easily qualifies as heralding a quantum leap in the development of the telecommunications sector of the Nigerian economy. It was a classical win-win situation for MTN and the Nigerian public. It brought in a massive inflow of development capital into an economy that was famished and thirsty for the nourishment and infusion of foreign investment. The multiplier effect rapidly spawned a sprawling complex of forward and backward sectoral linkage industries. Not to talk of the ease of doing business and the facility of social and economic mobility it fostered. In return, the efforts of MTN were bountifully rewarded with tonnes of dollars in investment recoup. And then the descent into villainy began.

‘Barely two and half years after MTN was slammed with $5.2billion (negotiated to 1.9 billion dollars) in sanctions by the Nigerian government for connecting millions of unregistered SIM cards to its network, the telecom giant is again under official scrutiny over $8.1billion serially moved out of Nigeria using processes described by authorities as illegal and irregular’. “The committee of governors directed MTN and the banks to meet with the examiners to provide any evidence within one week that could convince the examiners to change their position. Indeed, the deadline for the submission of documents and evidence was extended to over 12 weeks…Despite granting these extensions, the examiners’ position never changed as MTN and the banks had no new evidence to provide. Based on this, the examiners concluded their reports and made their recommendations which were subsequently adopted by the CBN committee of governors.”-according to the CBN governor.

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