FRIDAY 9TH NOVEMBER 2018

Don’t Delay Minimum Wage Bill, Labour Tells Buhari Threatens resumption of hostility

Omololu Ogunmade, Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Alex Enumah in Abuja The organised labour yesterday asked President Muhammadu Buhari to send to the National

Assembly, without any delay, a bill fixing N30,000 as national minimum wage or risk resumption of hostility. “We expect the matter to be properly concluded, and for the bill to be sent to the

Presidency insists no figure has been approved

National Assembly. We expect that to happen within a couple of weeks. And if it becomes protracted we will take the appropriate decision,” General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr. Peter

Essom, told THISDAY yesterday. The labour union top official spoke in reaction to the presidency’s insistence yesterday that the president had not approved any figure as the national minimum wage

despite the recommendation of the National Minimum Wage Committee, which proposed N30,000. The presidency in a statement by Buhari’s media aide, Mr. Femi Adesina, had

corroborated Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed’s, position on Tuesday that the president was still considering the committee’s Continued on page 8

Despite Heavy Losses, Traders Reject Options to Lagos Ports … Page 10 Friday 9 November, 2018 Vol 23. No 8605. Price: N250

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CBN, MTN Reach Tentative Agreement on $8bn Fines Meets telecoms’ banks today FG plans London road show on $2.8bn Eurobond Ejiofor Alike with agency reports The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and telecoms giant, MTN, have reached a tentative agreement on the $8 billion fines the apex bank imposed on the Nigerian subsidiary of the company, MTN Nigeria, for violating currency regulations, THISDAY learnt

last night. According to reliable sources, the MTN Group CEO and President, Mr. Rob Shuter, was in Abuja yesterday and met with the CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, to discuss the fines, which the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has said could increase Continued on page 8

US Confident INEC Will Conduct Credible Elections in 2019 Alex Enumah in Abuja The United States of America yesterday expressed confidence that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would be capable of conducting free, fair and credible elections in 2019, going by the success of the previous elections and the current efforts of the commission

under the leadership of Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu. Visiting Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Ambassador Tibor Nagy, who stated this yesterday while hosting Yakubu at the residence of the US Ambassador in Abuja, noted that though the task before the Continued on page 10

NNPC Slides into Loss after Six Months of Profit … Page 6

FOR REGIONAL COOPERATION… L-R: Senate President Bukola Saraki; President Muhammadu Buhari; and President of the Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Mr. Jean Claude Brou, during the opening of the 41st conference of African Parliamentary Union (APU) in Abuja… yesterday

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NNPC Slides into Loss after Six Months of Profit

Chineme Okafor in Abuja

The August 2018 edition of the monthly financial and operations report of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) released yesterday indicated that after about six months of recording back-to-back profit on its operations, the corporation slid back to loss-making with about N3.90 billion incurred as operational deficit for the period. The report also showed that eight subsidiaries of the corporation have persisted in making losses for the state-run oil firm. The eight subsidiaries with their persisted poor operational performances were listed by the corporation in the report. According to the report, the three refineries of the NNPC in Warri; Port Harcourt; and Kaduna, collectively incurred

an operational deficit of N10.79 billion, making them the largest loss-making subsidiaries of the corporation. The other loss-making subsidiaries of the corporation according to the report included the Nigerian Pipelines and Storage Company Limited (NPSC) which is charged with the task of building, maintaining and managing pipeline and storage infrastructure of the NNPC across Nigeria. It is also responsible for managing the transmission and storage of petroleum products, the NNPC Shipping; the NNPC Ventures and the corporation’s corporate headquarters. Describing the situation, the report stated, “This 37th edition of the report indicated a trading deficit of N3.90 billion which is 179.87 per cent lower than the previous month’s surplus of N4.88 billion. “This drop in performance

month-on-month is principally attributable to the drop in performance of NPDC owing largely to revenue decrease and higher expenditure level when compared to previous month in July 2018.� The report explained that the refineries’ production in August amounted to 21.51 million litres of petroleum products as against the 38.64 million litres produced in July 2018. According to it, “The corporation has been adopting a merchant plant refineries business model since January 2017. The model takes cognisance of the products worth and crude costs. The combined value of output by the three refineries (at import parity price) for the month of August 2018 amounted to N8.67 billion while the associated crude plus freight costs and operational expenses were

N9.78 billion and N9.68 billion respectively. This resulted to an operating deficit of N10.79 billion by the refineries.� It added that for the month of August 2018, only the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries produced 53,881 metric tonnes (MT) of finished petroleum products and 8,017MT of intermediate products out of the 56,804MT of crude processed at a combined capacity utilisation of 3.02 per cent compared to 4.83 per cent combined capacity utilisation achieved in the month of July 2018. It further explained the lower operational performance recorded was as a result of the ongoing revamping of the refineries which it noted is expected to further enhance capacity utilisation once completed. On oil production, the report stated that a total of 57.45 million barrels (mb) of

crude oil and condensate were produced within the period, thus representing an average daily production of 1.85 million barrels (mbd). “This represents an increase of 3.95 per cent in the average daily production compared to June 2018 average daily performance. Out of the July 2018 production, Joint Ventures (JVs) and Production Sharing Contracts (PSC) contributed about 33.65 per cent and 40.50 per cent respectively. While AF, NPDC and Independents accounted for 14.24 per cent, 6.15 per cent and 5.46 per cent respectively. “In July 2018, crude oil production in Nigeria increased by 70.35tb/d or 3.95 per cent to average 1.85mbd compared to the month. Production during the month was affected by shut-down of Nembe Creek Trunk Line (NCTL) and Trans Forcados Pipeline due

to leakages while ERHA and USAN terminals were shut for maintenance and tank top management. “Production was also cut back at Bonga, Agbami, Yoho, and Odudu terminals for issues around Christmas-tree change out, rig movement and the like,� the report stated. It further said that in August, a total of 86 pipeline points were vandalised of which only two pipeline points failed to be welded, adding that it was an improvement over the 204 vandalised points recorded in the previous month. The NNPC report stated that as part of the corporation’s refinery collocation initiative designed to boost local refining capacity and end the era of petroleum products importation, it has plans to establish a 100,000 barrels per day (bpd) brownfield refinery in both Port Harcourt and Warri.

demands made on MTN by Nigerian authorities. CBN fined Standard Chartered N2.4 billion ($7.8 million) over the fund transfer; Stanbic IBTC Bank N1.8 billion; Citibank N1.2 billion and Diamond Bank N250 million. The South African apex bank said the fines could increase the risk to the country’s financial system. It said in its semi-annual review of financial stability that the repatriation claim and the $2 billion underpayment in tax amounted to approximately 100 percent of MTN’s market capitalisation. “Any potential impact on the South African financial system arising from this event will depend on the eventual resolution of the matters raised

and MTN Group’s ability to continue meeting its debt obligations,� the bank said. “A potential worst-case scenario would be for the MTN Group to disinvest from Nigeria,� the central bank added.

The Senate last month approved the Eurobond issue but advised the government to limit foreign borrowing and boost revenue. Last year the federal government sold $3 billion in Eurobonds, part of which it used to fund its 2017 budget. It then followed with a $2.5 billion Eurobond sale in February to refinance local currency bonds at lower cost. The Senate said the new bond issue will raise foreign borrowing to 32 per cent of Nigeria’s total debt, up from 30 percent at June 2018. Federal government’s officials met fund managers in September on a non-deal road show in New York to update bondholders on the country’s growth plans.

N66,500 and that the N30,000 was the outcome of tripartite negotiations. If the government on their own want to jettison that and start renegotiating a new figure, whatever the industrial consequences that follows, they will be held responsible. We stand by the figure that was recommended by the committee and no manipulation of that is going to be accepted by us." On what labour would do if government insisted on lowering the figure, Essom said: "I think what we will say is that at the appropriate time you will hear from us." Essom said labour would insist on the sanctity of the agreement at the tripartite negotiations, which settled for N30, 000. Labour had threatened a nationwide strike to begin last Tuesday, if the government failed to endorse the N30,000 as new minimum wage.

The order given was sequel to a request for adjournment by counsel to the federal government to allow time for parties to reach amicable resolution of the dispute and present their agreement before the court, adding that negotiations by parties were still ongoing. The federal government had dragged organised labour before the court over its planned strike, if government failed to accede to its demand of N30,000 as the new minimum wage in the country. The federal government had also in an ex-parte motion prayed the court to stop labour from embarking on the strike pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit. Delivering ruling on the ex-parte, Justice Kado, said he granted the ex-parte order stopping the strike which the labour had planned to commence on November 6, in the interest of the people. He, in addition, ordered the federal government to put organised labour on notice and adjourned hearing to November 8, 2019. The strike was, however, averted after an agreement was reached on November 5 between labour and the federal government with N30, 000 recommended to President Muhammadu Buhari as the

CBN, MTN REACH TENTATIVE AGREEMENT ON $8BN FINES the risks to the country’s financial system. Based on unassailable findings, said a source, there was an agreement that the CBN would grant the telecoms a substantial reduction in the fines. Following the deal, the apex bank is to meet with the four banks affected by the hefty fines today. Reuters had reported that CBN emailed invitations yesterday to the Nigeria heads of Standard Chartered, Citibank, Stanbic IBTC Bank and Diamond Bank to attend a meeting today. CBN had accused South Africa-based MTN of violating currency regulations by sending $8.1 billion abroad. In August, the apex bank

ordered the company and its banks to repatriate the funds. MTN and the banks involved have denied any wrongdoing and the banks want the central bank to refund the money charged to their accounts in the form of fines. Reuters had said the CBN and the banks declined to comment on today’s meeting, adding that a spokeswoman for MTN told it she did not know of the proposed meeting. Last week, a Lagos court adjourned a hearing on the $8.1 billion dispute between MTN and the CBN until December 4. Reuters quoted Emefiele as having said he was optimistic the MTN issue could be

resolved. Nigeria is MTN’s biggest market, accounting for a third of the lender’s annual core profit, but has proved to be problematic in recent years. In a separate case, MTN faces a $2 billion tax demand from Nigeria’s AttorneyGeneral; a claim which the firm has said is without merit. The Lagos court yesterday adjourned the case against the attorney general until December 3. Africa’s biggest telecoms firm has a market valuation of roughly $12 billion and the two disputes total $10.1 billion. Meanwhile, South African Reserve Bank said on Wednesday that the country’s financial stability was threatened by the

FG Plans Road Show on $2.8bn Eurobond

Meanwhile, federal government’s officials will go on a road show to London next week ahead of a planned $2.8 billion Eurobond sale this month. The road show, which is being organised by Citi and Standard Chartered, will run from November 12 for three days and be attended by the Finance Minister, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed.

DON’T DELAY MINIMUM WAGE BILL, LABOUR TELLS BUHARI recommendation and would make his opinion known in due course. Adesina said reports that the president had reneged on his earlier acceptance of N30,000 minimum wage as recommended by the committee had been of concern to the presidency and described as unnecessary, the brewing controversy over the wage proposal, explaining that until the report and recommendation of the committee were reviewed by the executive and legislative process on the new minimum wage concluded, nobody could attribute any claim to the president. He said the president would follow due process on the new minimum wage, insisting that the current controversy amounted to putting the cart before the horse. He also accused members of the opposition of playing politics with the minimum wage, threatening that judgment awaited them at the forthcoming polls. "The presidency is concerned over recurring reports alleging that President Muhammadu Buhari has reneged on earlier acceptance of the N30,000 recommended as the new National Minimum Wage by the National Minimum Wage Tripartite Committee,� he said, adding, "These reports are contrary to what

transpired on Tuesday when the committee presented its report to the president. Responding, President Buhari, while acknowledging the concerns raised by government on affordability and labour’s focus on meaningful increase, stated clearly in a speech, which was made available to the media: 'In a way, both arguments are valid. I want to assure you all that we will immediately put in place the necessary machinery that will close out these open areas. 'Our plan is to transmit an Executive Bill to the National Assembly for passage within the shortest possible time. I am fully committed to having a new National Minimum Wage Act in the very near future. 'As the executive arm commences its review of your submission, we will continue to engage you all in closing any open areas presented in this report. I, therefore, would like to ask for your patience and understanding in the coming weeks.' "From the above, and throughout the reportsubmission ceremony, the president never mentioned any figure. What he committed himself to was a new minimum wage, and only after the report of the committee has been reviewed by the executive and legislative processes of government and an appropriate

bill presented to him for assent. "Until the proposed minimum wage has gone through the whole gamut of law-making, President Buhari, who is a stickler for due process, will not be caught in this unnecessary web of controversy, which amounts to putting the cart before the horse and hairsplitting.� But labour in a swift response yesterday warned that it would not accept any form of delays, stating that it certainly would not allow reopening of negotiation over the figure already fixed. Essom told THISDAY that there were no more elaborate reviews or processes to be done other than for Buhari to send the draft bill prepared by the committee to the National Assembly for immediate legislative approval. He disagreed that N30,000 was labour’s demand, explaining that was a compromise figure among the federal government, organised private sector and labour, contending that there was no basis for a review of the committee’s recommendation. "It is the figure that was submitted by the tripartite committee, he (the president) himself set up. So we need to be factual from the beginning,� Essom said, adding, “As far as we are concerned, we will recall that Labour's demand was

Court Directs Submission of Terms of Settlement Meanwhile, Justice Sanusi Kado of Abuja Division of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) has ordered both the federal government and labour to submit before the court a report of their resolutions on the dispute over minimum wage.

new minimum wage regime. When the matter came up yesterday, the three defendants – the Nigeria Labour Congress, the Trade Union Congress and the Nigerian Governors’ Forum were absent and were also not represented by any lawyer. However, the federal government and the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation, Mr. Abubakar Malami, were represented by their legal team led by Emmanuel Omonowa. Omonowa informed the judge that based on the order made Continued on page 10

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Banks’ Apathy over Lending Worries Emefiele Improve on quality of fiscal consolidation, IMF tells Nigeria, others Ndubuisi Francis, James Emejo in Abuja and Nume Ekeghe in Lagos The Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, yesterday expressed disappointment over the reluctance of commercial banks to lend to the real sector of the economy. This is coming as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has advised Nigeria and other sub-Saharan African countries to improve on the quality of fiscal consolidation being implemented by them, adding that progress on the domestic revenue mobilisation has been elusive, and far short of the region’s potential. The CBN governor was also unhappy that banks would rather invest in treasury bills than perform their intermediation role, in order to stimulate the economy. Furthermore, Emefiele described as fake news, a recent

report that Nigeria recorded an increase in its rice importation bill. Speaking at the Nigeria Investment Conference organised by the Chartered Financial Analyst(CFA) Society Nigeria, the CBN governor said the role of banks was to act as catalysts for economic growth. Emefiele said: “It is the fact that the banks are supposed to be partnering with us to achieve this. Your job as a bank is to stimulate the economy to act as catalysts for growth and development, one way or the other. “Yes, you have a responsibility to work for your shareholders which is to maximise profit, but what you do is to take deposits and put it in treasury bills because we feel the yields are good. “We are not happy with you about that.� He said the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP), was yielding the desired results. “I can tell you that we have empowered 800,000 farmers directly, not looking at the fall

out. We have disbursed over N400 billion to these communities and that is why it is painful when people come over and begin to say it hasn’t worked and that we are importing rice. “It is very discouraging and that is why I say if you cannot join us, just keep quiet.� The United States Department of Agriculture World Markets and Trade Report had said Nigeria’s rice importation rose by 400,000 metric tonnes to three million in 2018. A figure the CBN Governor said was false. “I was reading a report where the United States said the volume of imports of rice increased by 400,000 tonnes. “I am not a politician, but people should be very mindful when they open their mouths to say what is untrue because we would come out as central bank to attack it particularly if you use data incorrectly. I seize the opportunity to say that it is untrue. “The data that we have today shows that rice imported

illegally into the country is less than 25,000 tonnes in 2018 so far. “Then how come an agency which has not been to Nigeria or even been to the farms to see what we are doing, just come up and say that Nigeria has imported 400,000 tonnes above what it normally should import? “Go to the data of countries that export rice, you would see their data; you would find the quantity of rice imported by Nigeria. This is false and fake news.� Meanwhile, the IMF has advised Nigeria and other sub-Saharan African countries to improve on the quality of fiscal consolidation being implemented by them. According to the IMF, the quality of fiscal adjustment undertaken by the region is also threatened by the re-emergence of fuel subsidies. In its Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Economic Outlook (Capital Flows and the Future of Work), which was unveiled

in Abuja yesterday, the IMF said the average fiscal deficit for the region is set to shrink from 4.2 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) to 3,3 per cent in 2018. The IMF Senior Resident Representative and Mission Chief for Nigeria, Mr. Amine Mati, who unveiled the report said this masks significant variations across economies, with fiscal balances expected to improve in oil exporting countries like Nigeria, remain unchanged in non-resource-intensive countries , and deteriorate somewhat in other resource-intensive countries. “The improvement in fiscal balances in oil-exporting countries stemmed in most cases from increased revenues from the oil sector and cuts in capital expenditures, with notable exception of Nigeria where public investment has doubled over the last two years, albeit low levels,� the IMF said. It warned that further radical cuts in capital expenditure was

tantamount to risking mediumterm growth, if the investment is not picked up by the private sector. The IMF noted that progress on the much-needed domestic revenue mobilisation in the region has been elusive, remaining far short of Sub-Saharan Africa’s potential. “Under current medium-term fiscal plans, the revenue gap estimated at 3-3.5 per cent of GDP on average across countries , is not expected to be closed. In deed, domestic revenues are envisaged to rise by about two and half per cent of GDP in oil exporting countries and only by1/2 per cent of GDP in other countries. “The quality of the fiscal adjustment is also threatened by the re-emergence of fuel subsidies. While most countries did pass lower oil prices through to domestic prices, most countries have not raised prices as much in response to the recent increase in international fuel prices�.

Despite Heavy Losses, Traders Reject Options to Lagos Ports Eromosele Abiodun Despite making heavy losses estimated at N70 billion yearly in demurrage on Lagos ports, crippling traffic congestion caused by bad access roads and high cost of transportation, importers and exporters have refused to patronise other ports across the country, THISDAY’s investigation has revealed. There are about nine ports spread across four states in Nigeria, including five ports in Lagos; two in Delta State, Warri and Sapele; and one each in Rivers and Cross Rivers States. But importers and exporters across the country only patronise Lagos ports, despite the huge losses they incur as a result of bad roads and high demurrage. Importers who spoke to THISDAY cited insecurity, low draft and lack of commercial viability as the reasons for the non-patronage of the other ports. They argued that shipping companies do not ship containers to other ports because they do not consider them viable. They also added that importers across the country have no choice but to come to Lagos because other states are not commercially viable enough to attract shipping companies.

According to them, they incur loss of over N70 billion annually on transportation cost and demurrage on empty containers and cargo stay-time and rent demurrage in Lagos ports. For instance, each importer, they stated, paid N20, 000 demurrage per container daily on over 2,000 containers. National President of Shippers Association of Lagos, the umbrella body of importers and exporters, Mr. Jonathan Nichol, told THISDAY that shipping companies and terminal operators and transporters were taking advantage of the situation to rip-off importers in Lagos ports. He said importers across the country had no choice but to come to Lagos because other states were not commercially viable enough to attract shipping companies. According to him, “Anywhere in the world traders would only discharge his cargo where he could maximise profit. No commercial vessel can go to Warri and Port Harcourt port for instance because of low draft and insecurity. Also, there is no market in that area compared to Lagos. The Lagos market attracts shipping companies because this is where

they can break even. Even if there was market there, the ports don’t have infrastructure to manage cargo like you have in Lagos. It is cheaper to clear goods in Lagos. As a matter of fact you spend more in other ports than in Lagos.� On his part, President Shippers Association of Calabar, Mr. Mike Ogodo, said it takes at least six months to receive cargo ordered from overseas in Calabar. He said, “If you are exporting goods you wait at least six months to get a vessel to export your goods. “This is because there are no commercial vessels calling in Calabar. If you are an importer, it takes six months of transshipment before you get your cargo in Port Harcourt or Calabar. Why should I pay N1million to transport goods from Lagos to Calabar when I can pay N70, 000 to transport from Calabar port to my warehouse? “The only time Calabar port was commercially viable for shipping companies was during the construction of Tinapa and United Cement Company. Maersk and other shipping companies were calling here because they had goods to bring here and take out. The only way the government can address the

matter is to reduce tariff for shipping companies to attract them here. The government can also get smaller vessels to do transshipment of cargo to Warri, Port Harcourt and Calabar.� Also speaking, President of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), the umbrella body of custom agents in Nigeria, Mr. Lucky Amiwero, said there was a need to move out the backlog of cargo from Apapa to Lily Pond, (Tincan 2) off dock facilities to ease the congestion in Apapa. Amiwero, who said importers were losing faith in the port system, said the cost of transporting a 20-feet container from Tincan/Apapa ports to Alaba International Market in Lagos had increased from N120,000 to N400,000 and 40ft container at the rate of N700,000 from N250,000. He added that the cost of transporting a 20ft container from Tincan/Apapa to Kaduna, North-west of Nigeria, had increased from N500,000 to N900,000 while it costs N1 million to transport a 40ft container from N600,000 previously. They also stated that it costs between N1.4 million and N1.5 million to transport a

40ft container from Tincan/ Apapa to Kano, also in the North-west, and Yola in the North-east, respectively. Amiwero also said transporting a 20ft container from Tincan/Apapa to Onitsha, the commercial nerve centre of the South-east of Nigeria cost N550,000 from N250,000 while importers and agents pay N750,000 to transport a 40ft container to Onitsha. According to him, “After clearance the returned Container Deposit get consumed on the top of the trucks, due to inability of the Truck owners/drivers to off load the empty containers back to the empty container deport in the Ports. The turn round time of Trucks and Containers movement is limited, as a result of weeks and months trucks spend to assess the Ports in Lagos.� When contacted, the NPA said there was nowhere in the world where government dictated to importers where they wanted to discharge their goods. Assistant General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communication, of the NPA, Mr. Nasiru Ibraheem, said the Nigerian ports could not operate in isolation, stressing that the NPA was doing its best to ensure that the ports were efficient and ran in line with

On his part, the INEC Chairman assured that the commission would not disappoint the international community as it had put in place the machinery to protect the integrity of the process. Yakubu said INEC was determined to prove that what happened in the 2015 general elections were not a fluke. "We want to make 2019 a further affirmation of the maturity of the Nigerian democracy and we are committed to these processes," he said. He pledged the resolve of his team to focus on the processes and not parties or actors, adding, "We will do our best to ensure that we maintain the credibility of the process and I want to assure you that we will not let the international community down."

DON’T DELAY MINIMUM WAGE BILL, LABOUR TELLS BUHARI

US CONFIDENT INEC WILL CONDUCT CREDIBLE ELECTIONS IN 2019 commission was a very difficult one, with the support of all, the commission would do very well. He said, "Nigeria has been an example of a model of the kind of democratic processes, which would be wonderful to have throughout the African continent. "Not only is Nigeria the largest African country and economy in Africa but the last election in 2015 was an absolute positive example on how an election should be conducted and so much of the credit goes to the commission for their phenomenal positive and very objective work in managing those elections. "So, we have every confidence that the commission would be up to the task, which we all know is a very difficult task given the enormity of

the process, so we are very encouraged by what we heard today." Responding to questions regarding the United States’ interest in the 2019 election, Nagy emphasised that the US did not have any candidate in the 2019 election, adding, “We don’t care who wins but the process.� He said while Nigerians had absolute right to choose their leaders, the process through which such leaders emerged must be transparent, free and fair to all. He urged politicians and security agencies to shun activities capable of discrediting the outcome of the 2019 election. Nagy said, "Regarding the plans for the February elections, we will remain very interested and we were very honoured to be able to host the chairman

in the US recently to be able to observe the preparations for our own elections. "We understand all of the complexities and we want to specially urge all the parties concerned to please urge all of their followers to be non violent and also to urge all of the organs of state security especially to remain neutral in this process because the neutrality of the state is absolutely essential." Similarly, US Ambassador, Stuart Symington, who noted that "election is not all about election day but all the processes leading to the election," urged Nigerian voters to avail themselves the opportunity provided by the recent display of the voters register to screen the list, check the spelling of their names as well as know if the name of any dead person is included in the list.

by the court on November 2, negotiations on the new minimum wage were ongoing. He, therefore, pleaded with the court to give more time to the parties in the suit to enable them to continue with the negotiations and later give a report on the negotiation efforts to the court. “Pursuant to Order 42(1) of the National Industrial Court Rules, the court should allow parties to see the possibility of amicable settlement of the matter,� Omonowa said. Justice Kado, while granting the request for adjournment however reaffirmed his November 2 order restraining organised labour from embarking on the planned

global best practice. According to him, “The NPA do not have the power to tell an importer where to take their goods, if you direct an importer to Calabar for example and the cost to him is higher than coming to Lagos what do you do?� He debunked importers’ allegation that other ports were not being patronised because of low draft, lack of infrastructure and insecurity. He said, “That cannot be true because everybody’s opinion on what is happening in the port is different. Security is key for any port and the NPA provides that. All our ports have passed the ISPS code security test. The authority is dredging other ports across the country, as far as we are concerned we have provided the necessary infrastructure in all the ports in the country. We agree there are some issues with the Lagos ports. However, the federal government through the authority is working very hard to resolve the problem. “Most of the executive orders that have been put in place by the government were to ensure improvement in the ease of doing business. We have had several stakeholders’ meeting in all the ports and we are working with stakeholders to find solution to the problem that has been identified.�

strike and warned all the parties to the suit against taking any step to cause disruptions in the case. He subsequently adjourned till January 30, 2019, for the parties to report to the court on whether or not they had settled amicably or would still be interested in going on with the case. Justice Kado had on November 2, in a ruling on an ex parte application moved on behalf of the federal government by the Solicitor-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata, stopped the labour from embarking on their planned strike scheduled to commence on November 6.

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

Buhari Tasks African Parliaments to Develop Anti-terrorism Strategy Legislation key to winning fight against scourge, Saraki insists Deji Elumoye and Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday in Abuja tasked the African Parliamentary Union (APU) to develop strategies aimed at assisting various governments in confronting the menace of terrorism, banditry

and other organised crimes ravaging African countries. This is coming as the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has identified legislation as the key in the war against terrorism and other crimes in the African continent. Buhari who is the Chairman of the Economic Community of

Corruption: Rwanda Recommends Online Assets Declaration for Nigeria Court refuses to order Ekweremadu’s arrest over alleged refusal to declare assets Alex Enumah in Abuja The Rwandan Governance Board (RGB) has said online assets declaration by public office holders is one of the methods that can be used to reduce corruption to a barest minimum in any country, including Nigeria. This is coming as Justice Binta Nyako of the Abuja division of the Federal High Court, Abuja, yesterday declined to order the arrest of the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu over his alleged refusal to declare his assets before the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Assets. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of RGB, Dr. Usta Kaitesi, said this when he received the Nigerian delegation on a Post-Conflict Learning visit titled: ‘Readiness for Change’ yesterday in Kigali, Rwanda. She said the online method was to enable officers add newly- acquired assets and deduct the ones that were no longer in their possession to ensure accurate database. Kaitesi said Rwandan government had zero tolerance for corruption, adding that anybody caught irrespective of their position would face the law. She explained that Rwanda was not 100 per cent free from corruption but it was very minimal, adding that only zero tolerance for corruption could guarantee and sustain the fight. “There is no immunity for public office holders in Rwanda; if you take part in corrupt activities and you are caught, you will be dismissed from office and face the law irrespective of your position. “You can always run but no matter how long you run, anytime you are caught, you will face the wrath of the law. “So either you stay and face the consequences then come out to be a better person or you keep running till you are caught. “We still have some perpetrators of the genocide, who are still at large and we are still searching for them any day they are found they must face the law,” she said. She explained that resilience on part of government and compliance by citizens was paramount in ensuring sustainability of any development

project or policy. The Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita, who led the delegation, described Rwanda’s public service as excellent. Oyo-Ita noted that the visit was enlightening, adding that Nigeria had learnt a lot and would replicate same in Nigeria for better national development. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the delegation had so far visited 10 Rwandan institutions including ministries to learn their post-conflict survival strategies and mechanisms. In a related development, Justice Binta Nyako of the Abuja division of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on yesterday declined to order the arrest of the Deputy Senate President, Ekweremadu over his alleged refusal to declare his assets before the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Assets. Justice Nyako declined to issue the order on the grounds that Ekweremadu is already challenging the jurisdiction of the court and the competency of the charge brought against him. The Obono-Obla-led committee had through its counsel, Celsius Ukpong, applied to the judge to issue bench warrant for the arrest of Ekweremadu to compel his attendance in court to defend the charges of non-declaration of assets brought against him. The counsel told the judge that Ekweremadu ought to be in court physically yesterday in connection with the criminal charges filed against him earlier in May. He submitted that Ekweremadu decided on his own not to obey the court summon in spite of the fact that he was duly served with the charge as required by law. But counsel to Ekweremadu, Chief Solomon Awomolo (SAN), objected to the request for bench warrant on the grounds that the Senator had on November 1, filed an application challenging the jurisdiction of the court to hear the charge against him, and also the validity of the charge itself. The counsel submitted that appearance of Ekweremadu in court was not necessary until the issues of jurisdiction and competency of the charge have been resolved by the court.

West African States (ECOWAS), made the submission while addressing the 73rd session of the Executive Committee and 41st Conference of Speakers of the National Parliaments of APU. According to him, abuse of ease of movement of persons’ protocol across the African borders leads to proliferation of arms and has given rise to the menace of terrorism by Al Shaabab, ISIS and Boko Haram. Buhari who said Nigeria had done a lot to fight the advancement of Boko Haram in collaboration with neighbouring countries, added that such collaboration had strengthened their armed

forces as well as programmes designed to address widespread poverty, which, he said, had been identified as a major factor fueling unrest and aiding recruitment into terrorism. “We are not unmindful of the remaining challenge of armed invaders who ransack villages and small farming communities and commit terrible acts including the cold-blooded murder of women and children.” He commended the focus of the conference which borders on promotion of girls’ education as the antidote to early marriage, assuring that Nigeria and others were ready to consider inputs on the issue

in order to enhance the status of the African girl-child. “Educating girls increases the probability of having more women innovators, entrepreneurs and chief executive officers,” he said. In his submission, President of the African Parliamentary Union, and Nigeria’s President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, identified proper legislation as a major component for fighting terrorism and crime in the African continent. Saraki declared that legislation is key in fighting crime and terrorism, adding that “if you look at the developed countries, it is through legislation that they have stayed on top of these

issues”. According to him, “Africa’s problems require African solutions. Collective effort is needed. We must therefore ask ourselves as legislators: what role are we playing? How have we supported the Executive in dealing with these matters?”. He further said legislators need to do more to share ideas and work together to devise new and effective strategies for addressing the many challenges facing the continent. According to him, “It is clear that, in order to achieve desired outcomes in the fight against terrorism and pursue growth and development, we must adopt both regional and Africa-wide strategies”.

IT’S NICE MEETING YOU…

Deputy President of Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu (left), and Prince Charles, during a reception for the Prince and Duchess of Cornwall by the British High Commission in Abuja…recently

FG Spends N3.5m Monthly to Feed El-Zakzaky, Says Lai Mohammed Be guided by rule of law, UK envoy tells Shiites, security agencies Alex Enumah in Abuja The federal government has claimed it spends N3.5 million monthly to feed the detained leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), Ibrahim elZakzaky. This is coming as the outgoing United Kingdom High Commissioner to Nigeria, Paul Arkwright, yesterday appealed to protesting members of IMN and security agencies to always allow the rule of law guide their conducts. Arkwright also denied the involvement of the British Government in the cancellation of the planned address of the British House of Lords by Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd). The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, made the claim on the feeding of IMN leader in a video that went viral on the internet yesterday. The minister, who was apparently addressing journalists,

was heard saying in the video that he was giving the journalists the information on an off-the-record basis to serve as a background to their reports. But Oak Television released it to the internet, trending on social media early yesterday. Mohammed, in the video, said it was wrong to liken what was happening to el-Zakzaky, whose followers have been engaging security agents in confrontation since his incarceration, to what happened to the late leader of Boko Haram, Yusuf. He said the IMN leader was undergoing criminal prosecution in Kaduna State and the court had denied him bail. The minister explained that instead of detaining him in a prison, the federal government decided to hold el-Zakzaky in a building belonging to the Department of State Services (DSS). He said the Islamic cleric ate whatever he liked in detention.

“It costs the government about N3.5 million every month to feed him,” the minister declared. Mohammed explained to them that he got the figure from the relevant government agencies upon enquiry. At that point, the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, who was apparently briefing journalists alongside Mohammed, jokingly told him (Mohammed) that he (Amaechi) too was willing to be taken into custody. Justifying why he volunteered the information on an offthe-record basis, the minister described the issue involving the IMN as a “sensitive” one. “So, please, we don’t want to inflame passion. The issue is a very sensitive matter. But that is the situation,” the minister said. Meanwhile, the television station has apologised to the minister for making the video public despite the off-the-record agreement he had with the

journalists. In an apology letter addressed to the minister and dated November 8, the management of the TV station said the video was released in error. It claimed that all those involved in the error have been sanctioned. Meanwhile, the outgoing United Kingdom High Commissioner to Nigeria, Paul Arkwright, on has appealed to protesting members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) and security agencies to always allow the rule of law guide their conducts. Arkwright, who made the appeal yesterday during a parley with journalists in Abuja on the visit of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, also appealed to Nigerians to tackle the herders famers clashes from a more global perspectives rather than ethnic and religious lines, adding that there are bigger issues underlying the crisis.

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COMMENT

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

THE BUHARI OF MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE Ignatius C. Olisemeka writes that the president is an unusual good man

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ithout ever knowing or meeting me, Buhari gave me a chance. As I now write, I have never met him one-on-one. We have never spoken to each other. It is an extraordinary experience of an unusual man. I was sitting on my desk in the Ministry of External Affairs, 40 Marina Lagos in 1984, when I received a letter appointing me Ambassador to the United States of America. My place of origin did not matter. Incidentally, I am from Ibusa, a famous town now in Delta State; then, in Bendel State. My religion did not matter either. I had no worthwhile contacts with Dodan Barracks. All I knew, and had always known, was to work hard and express my views as candidly and as courageously as I could, regardless of the consequences; provided I was convinced they were right. It was never easy or smooth-sailing. Of course, that had its bitter consequences; but at the end, now at 83, looking back, it worked out just right. Of all the Nigerian leaders, with the possible exception of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and AlhajiTafawa Balewa, Buhari has been the one that has most approximated my dream of what a Nigerian leader should be. Major General Muhammadu Buhari not only gave me the opportunity to serve Nigeria as ambassador in the United States, he did even more than that. He entrusted to me the care and welfare of his family; still without our knowing or meeting each other. He sent his wife and two children to me in Washington D.C. for treatment. He took his chance and dealt with me strictly on a professional basis. His family was with me in Washington D.C. when the General was overthrown in a coup d’etat. We did the best we could and sent them back home safely under the trying and traumatic circumstances they found themselves. Still, never a word from this unusual person. In 1988 after I returned as ambassador from Washington D.C., I was assigned as a punitive measure as Directing Staff to the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, for two years. The subject of our research in that year led the Syndicate I headed to visit Buhari’s State of Origin. With the approval of government, members of the syndicate visited Buhari who was then under house arrest in his home town, Daura. This most extraordinary man received us with warmth and courtesy. We found him living in a modest, sparsely furnished three or four bed-room bungalow which was his house. He still did not know who I was; nor did I disclose my identity to him. It was unbelievable, even in those days, that a former general in the Nigerian Army and a former Head of State could live in such a modest, Spartan abode. What further struck me was a complete lack of bitterness; unless the Fulani in him, concealed and dissembled it! What do all these tell me about this man, Buhari? Others may

BUHARI REPRESENTS, IN MY OPINION, THE LAST OPPORTUNITY WE HAVE TO GET THINGS REASONABLY RIGHT BEFORE THE BATON PASSES PERMANENTLY ON TO THE NEXT AND COMING GENERATION

have a different opinion of him. I absolutely concede to them the right to hold their views. As far as I am personally concerned, four short phrases summarise my overall impression and opinion of Buhari. An incorruptible man. A patriotic Nigerian devoid of any trace of ethnicism and parochialism. A deeply religious man. Above all, a stern disciplinarian. I also believe that what is badly needed at this stage of our national life is a leadership that will turn the country around; and rescue us from the depth of chronic indiscipline, disorder and decadence we have, over the years, gradually descended and slided into. What I believe we need is a strong hand at the helm, with the support of our people, who will instil in us a much needed sense of order and discipline; inspire us into patriotic zeal and sacrifice; bring out the best in each one of us; and encourage in us the love of nation. Buhari represents, in my opinion, the last opportunity we have to get things reasonably right before the baton passes permanently on to the next and coming generation. After him, the generation of the ‘founding fathers’ would have faded away; with their legacies, left behind, hopefully for good. He should be given the chance to restore and consolidate the disappearing values of that ‘golden age’ so sadly disrupted by the military, to which paradoxically and tragically, he and those in that generation, and that before him, were willy-nilly pressed into being a part of. He carries on his frail, aging but reliable shoulders a historic responsibility and burden of getting it right. He has a bounden duty to realign the nation towards achieving its manifest destiny. He has no excuses for failure. Otherwise, why should he be seeking power at his age? It makes absolutely no sense. Why not take a comfortable and relaxed back seat like most of us? History will judge him very harshly should he fail. I believe it is time for us to begin anew. Let us begin to lead our lives as normal human beings; and not in self-delusion and self-deceit. This is the real transformation needed. This is the revolution we yearn for at this point in time in our national life. I can now start understanding what drove past Chinese leaders into staging the “Cultural Revolution�. Nigeria is ripe; indeed, overripe for a non-violent revolution which will shake us all up like a volcanic eruption from our present national stupor. Who will sweep out the quacks and charlatans in our midst? Who will guarantee us enduring values? Who will cleanse the cobwebs from our national home? All said, let no one forget there is no better country than Nigeria in the whole world. I feel happiest when I am in Nigeria; despite the agonising frustrations; despite the infuriating hardship; and even when I am being driven daily to the brink of desperation. Ignatius C. Olisemeka is a former Nigerian ambassador to US

LOGIC OF OKOTIE’S PARADIGM SHIFT Kelechi Ihebia shares Chris Okotie’s argument for an interim government

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ev. Chris Okotie’s latest article titled, 2019: Time For A New Paradigm which was published recently in THISDAY newspaper, raised some fundamental questions about the credibility of the structures that hold the Nigerian State together at the moment. The article is actually a continuation of his previous write-ups in several media platforms that heralded the announcement of his latest shot at the Presidency of Nigeria. This time, the pastor-politician has zeroed his campaign on the most important topic of the day in our national debate: restructuring. In his letters to the Chairmen of the three major parties-APC, PDP, and the Coalition of United Political Parties, CUPP, Rev. Okotie had asked the parties not to field Presidential candidates in the forthcoming general election. He asked for their support as a remedial consensus candidate. Okotie argues that whoever emerges as the next president under the present constitution would not be able to move Nigeria forward, hence his call for the political class to support his candidacy, so that he’d set up an interim government, of National Reconstruction and Reconciliation. The pastor-politician who is now the Presidential candidate of the Fresh Democratic Party (FRESH) wrote:� The politics of today is so partisan, that it is bereft of the nationalistic sentiments that would augur well for a nation. Nigeria is at the cusp, and

we must come up with a philosophy that is antithetical and diametrically opposed to what we have done in the past. The Constitution of the country is moribund, retrogressive, and subversive to the Nigerian cause. We need to restructure, and no extant or subsisting party can address this issue, due to sentimental affiliations. Nigeria has come to a point where the only way forward is to have an interim government and it will be obvious as time goes on. At the presidential level, there will be difficulties that will not be surmountable except we submit to another paradigm�. In the preceding, the Pastor-politician anchors his argument on three major points. One, the politics of the current governing elite is neither nationalistic, nor patriotic, and so detrimental to the overall interest of Nigerians. The APC-PDP tussle and the aftermath of the crisis-ridden primaries lend credence to the argument. Two, the constitution is subversive to the Nigerian cause. While we are supposed to be a federal state, our constitution is, in reality, being operated like a unitary constitution. Obviously, being a product of the military, it was imposed arbitrarily on the political class in 1999; it did not reflect the true wishes of the Nigerian people. Rev. Okotie’s third and most important point is that no incumbent government can successfully restructure Nigeria, as the political class would not be able to muster the national consensus needed for such

massive reconfiguration of the country. For instance, no civilian government has been able to create states, or local government. Such exercises were done regularly under military rule in the past. Certainly, it is beyond debate that consensus building has never been a strong point of the political elite. What seems feasible is for the political class to demonstrate rare patriotism and make the restructuring of Nigeria the focal point of the nation’s redemption. There’s merit in the argument being advanced by Rev. Okotie that an interim government, with no partisan agenda, is best equipped to carry out the restructuring of Nigeria, given the present state of the nation. The polity is overheated; the nation is fragmented as never before, the economy is still gravitating toward a recession. How can any government deal with these severe problems and still restructure the country within a limited tenure of four short years? That is Okotie’s major worry and I dare say, I share this concern. What Nigeria needs now is not just the provisions of social amenities but a system of government that would enable elected politicians function without the encumbrances of a faulty federal system. A new constitution created with our peculiarities in mind, would give us a kind of government suitable for our political clime and culture. Our democracy doesn’t have to be modelled on Western system. What matters is that it

should have checks and balances, separation of powers, equity and justice for all federating units. If we view Rev. Okotie’s presentations critically, we’d see the merits of his argument that moving the nation forward cannot be a realistic or attainable objective under the present political order. The country needs a new governance template, by whatever name called. Whether it is Aboriginal democracy or home-groom democracy, the post-2019 development and stability of Nigeria may be an illusion, if we fail to address all the fundamental issues in the Okotie letters. Finally, let’s hear this note of warning from the pastor-politician; “There is a high level of resentment present in the nation today which is unprecedented. We must find a solution while our people are still willing to dialogue: a practical pragmatism which is necessary to engender a state where Nigerians are willing to continue in this entity that we call our nation. We have never had people this vocal in their condemnation of the things going on in government. A drastic event would occur that would change the course of this nation. This change would lead to the renaissance of the Nigerian state. Regardless, God has a hand in the destiny of this nation. I believe that He has given us another opportunity and we must grab it with both hands, with all the tenacity that we can muster�. Kelechi wrote from Lagos

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EDITORIAL ANTHONY ANENIH: Death Of ‘Mr Fix-It’ Anthony Anenih, intriguing politician, administrator and retired police officer, dies at age 85

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he death on 28th October of Chief Anthony Akhahon Anenih marked the end of a remarkable era in Nigerian politics. For four decades, starting from the Second Republic, Anenih dominated the political space like only few other Nigerians before him had done; all the more remarkable because he did not belong to any of the three majority ethnic groups in the country. By sheer force of personality, Anenih was courted and revered by peers and subordinates such that he earned several sobriquets, including ‘Mr Fix-it’. Although soft-spoken, not only was Anenih’s physical presence formidable, he was a master of intrigues, perhaps as a result of his early training and career in the police. And in his own way, the late Octogenarian worked towards the unity and stability of the country, rendered a life of service and played a key role under the different political arrangements that Nigeria has passed through. Anenih’s steady rise on the political ladder began in 1981 when he emerged the Chairman of the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN). Anenih, then a 48-year-old strategist, led the party until 1983. Under his watch, the late HIS DEXTERITY Brig. Gen. Samuel AT RESOLVING Ogbemudia was elected the civilian AND UNKNOTTING governor of the old COMPLEXITIES, Bendel State (now ESPECIALLY AT Edo and Delta) after ELECTION PERIODS upsetting the then EARNED HIM THE incumbent governor, MONIKER, ‘MR FIX IT’ Prof. Ambrose Alli of the defunct Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN). The lifespan of the regime was, however, terminated by the military coup of 1983. But when Nigeria went on another political voyage, Anenih emerged the Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), one of the two parties midwifed by the military during the aborted Third Republic political transition, where the late Chief Moshood Abiola eventually emerged the winner of an election that was annulled. Anenih

Letters to the Editor

was later to emerge a member of the Constitutional Conference in 1994 during the regime of the late General Sani Abacha. At the beginning of the current democratic dispensation, Anenih was a member of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) which metamorphosed into the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He emerged as the Coordinator of the Olusegun Obasanjo Campaign Organisation in the 1999 election and following the victory of the party, Anenih was appointed the Minister of Works and Housing. He would later serve as the Chairman of Board of Trustees of the PDP, in addition to being an active player in the administrations headed by both the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan.

S 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

uch were the defining attributes that made Anenih a colossus in the political arena that his dexterity at resolving and unknotting complexities, especially at election periods, earned him the moniker, ‘Mr Fix It’. “His roles in ensuring the stability, not only of our great party, but also for our nation at large, stood him out as a patriot who dedicated his life for the service of humanity”, the PDP said in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan. Born in Uzenema-Arue in Uromi in Edo State, Anenih joined the Nigeria Police in 1951. He attended the Nigerian Police College, Ikeja and furthered his career with training at the Bramshill Police College, Basingstoke, England in 1966 and the International Police Academy, Washington DC in 1970. He also served as the Police Orderly to the first Governor General of Nigeria, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe and equally deployed as an instructor in many police colleges including the Administrative Staff College, (ASCON) Lagos in 1975. He retired as a Deputy Commissioner of Police after which he joined politics. While there will always be questions about the purpose of Anenih’s politics, the same way one may question that of many Nigerians of his generation, there was no doubt that he played his own role and the judgment is now left for posterity. May his soul rest in peace.

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ENFORCING THE BAN ON OKADA IN FCT

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ricycle and motorcycle operators represent a very important economic bloc in the FCT today. They provide needed services for the population. A good look at the transportation value chain will reveal that tricycle and motorcycle are the most critical point, either in the process of initiating a journey - from point of take-off to where people will enter motors or plane. There are those who also represent the last point of the journey, when somebody has finished and terminates at his destination. Without tricycle and motorcycles, the substantial population of the FCT and other parts of the country would have been deprived of this very important aspect of human activity, which is mobility. Due to the unique position that this group occupies in the FCT, there have been a lot of communication and relations between the riders association and the relevant secretariats of the FCT Administration. There have also been various agreements and communiqué to ensure that the operations of commercial tricycles and motorcycles are restricted to designated areas, most notably the estates and suburbs. But as it is well known, Abuja is a magnet and everybody is just coming in. Sometimes, people come in and they don’t appreciate the agreements already entered between the associations and the FCTA. Ordinarily, the Abuja master plan did not make provisions for Okada and Keke to operate in the capital city. Section 42(1) of the road traffic Act of the FCT is very clear about the operation of Keke Napep. It says permit should not be granted

for them to operate. However because of the magnanimity of government, it gave waivers for the group to operate in the estates and suburbs. This is because government does not want to prevent anybody from doing his work or looking for food in the FCT. Government understands that all of us in Abuja, including the FCT Minister, are in the capital city to look for food. Today, if there is no food in Abuja, all of us will go back to our villages. But this should not be an excuse to do things in a manner that is capable of distorting peace and order in the FCT. A situation where all manner of persons drive Okada and Keke on the highway, endangering other road users is highly condemnable. From the records, the FCT Administration has introduced deliberate policies to cushion the hardships being faced by Okada and Keke riders and other groups in the FCT so that they don’t exceed their boundaries. For those of them who happen to be IDPs, the FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Musa Bello magnanimously agreed and approved two designated hospitals – Asokoro and Wuse District Hospitals for them to get medication free of charge and this has been going on for the last three years. Also in the area of school enrolment, over 2,000 children in the various IDP locations have been enrolled in public schools in the FCT and provided with uniforms and books for them to be comfortable, which is some the reasons given by this group for coming to the FCT. This why it is disheartening to now see this group now turn around and do things that are capable of destroying this

security and comfort that attracted them to Abuja in the first place. No explanation is good enough for why Okada and Keke operators should take advantage of government’s magnanimity to drive against traffic, ride on highways, and endanger the lives of other road users. Although the FCT Administration has shown over the years that it has zero tolerance for the flagrant abuse of law and order by this group with the clampdown and seizure of their vehicles by various task forces in the past. There is however need to find other ways of sanitising the activities of this group as is the case in other parts of the country. The FCT Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) as regulators of vehicular operations in the FCT, should come up with a more agreeable arrangement to integrate these people and then regulate them. The DRTS should zone their operation based on the needs of commuters in the FCT. Similarly, proper census needs to also be taken of commercial tricycle and motor cycle operators in the FCT to register them and integrate them into the ever expanding transportation landscape. Their biometric data should be collected after which they should be allocated to the areas agreed with their unions where they will only operate. In the event an area becomes fully occupied, they should be directed to go to the next estate and if somebody comes to transgress and enter their territory, they will know that this person doesn’t belong to them and take necessary action. Danladi Akilu, Durumi II, Gudu District, Abuja

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POLITICS

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

PERSPECTIVE

Distinct Landmarks in Ugwuanyi’s Tenure Louis Amoke

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overnor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has been in the news for good reasons, in recent times. Among other notable complements, a national newspaper voted him the, “2018 Governor of the Year” for good governance; rapid rural development; regular payment of workers’ salaries and retirees’ pensions even without the receipt of federal allocation; nurturing peace and harmony among the political class and critical support for security agencies, among others. Prior to this well-deserved feat, the National President of Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), Comrade (Dr.) Bobboi Bala Kaigama, while in Enugu for the ground breaking of 100 Housing Units for Nigerian workers, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for his sterling performance in office and outstanding commitment to the welfare of the state’s civil servants. Kaigama added that his leadership was proud of Ugwuanyi for paying workers’ salaries regularly and ensuring that they “have decent working environment”, saying, “If there is any governor that Nigerian workers can come up and work for his success particularly for his second term, we are proud to say that our members will work for you.” The housing project under reference is being developed by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) in collaboration with Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), Nigeria Employer’s Consultative Association (NECA) and the Enugu State Government. The Ugwuanyi administration in fulfillment of one of its contributions to the speedy actualization of the project, which is so dear to the workers, recently awarded contract for the construction of access roads to the site. In another landmark, the Rangers International Football Club of Enugu staged one of the greatest soccer comebacks to win the 2018 NFF/ AITEO cup after 35 years of the club’s last victory in the competition. It would be recalled that Enugu Rangers FC, under Ugwuanyi’s administration, exhibited similar historic feat when it won the 2015/2016 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) cup - breaking the jinx of being unable to win a trophy after 32 years. Also, the World Bank Group rated Enugu State as the second most advanced state in Nigeria towards the frontier of global good practices with regards to Ease of Doing Business. The objective rating, which was contained

Ugwuanyi

in the recently released World Bank Doing Business in Nigeria 2018 report, by implication, proves that Enugu State, under the visionary leadership of Gov. Ugwuanyi has institutionalized far-reaching socio-economic reforms and provided critical infrastructure and security that have engendered a robust climate of Ease of Doing Business, creating an increased inflow of local and foreign direct investments in the state. It has also gone a long way to showcase the ingenuity of the present administration in advancing the cause of business engagements in the state through innovations, accountability, fiscal discipline and efficient public expenditure management for the overall wellbeing of the masses. Prior to the recent World Bank rating, Ugwuanyi’s administration had received an avalanche of similar verdicts and commendations from well-respected bodies. These include the Senate on the judicious utilization of the bailout funds; the BudgiT report, which listed Enugu, Lagos and Rivers as the only three states out of the 36 states of the federation that have fulfilled obligations to their workers; the recent Economic Confidential magazine verdict that listed Enugu among the seven states that are solvent with impressive over-30 per cent Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to fund additional economic activities. Others include, the fifth most competitive state in Nigeria, according to the National Competitiveness Council of Nigeria; the third most debt sustainable State in Nigeria; the first state in Nigeria to publish its Audited State/ Final Account for three consecutive years; first in the South East geo-political zone and ninth in the country based on IGR as against Federal Allocation; one of the twelve states in Nigeria

that can survive without federal allocations, among others. Ugwuanyi was also favoured by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s validation of the gale of endorsements for the governor’s re-election by various groups across the state and beyond. The Enugu State chapter of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, which made the stance during its rich and colouful Iri-Ji (New Yam) Festival held at the popular Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, stated that the validation was “an ultimate Seal of Authority in Igbo Land”. The highly revered body added that it was also “the most bankable promissory note that beckons on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for a Certificate of Return to Ugwuanyi as the governor-elect in Enugu State come 2019.” Speaking on behalf of the excited members of the organization’s state chapter, its President, Chief Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, further explained that they were amazed at the list of numerous groups in the state that have endorsed the governor for a second term in office, which included - “The traditional rulers council and the members of their cabinets; Association of former elected Local Government Chairmen; Enugu State Amalgamated Traders Association; Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN); National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS). Others, according to Ohanaeze Ndigbo, include, “NULGE/ LG Pensioners; NURTW; National Assembly members; Enugu State Resident Doctors Association; Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT); Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC); Association of Former Members of Enugu State House of Assembly; Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), etc”. It is also remarkable to note that the ex-councilors in the state, between 1999-2015, have thrown their weight behind the governor’s second term bid in 2019 and more groups have continued to endorse him, accordingly, based on his outstanding performance and uncommon leadership style. Speaking further, the chapter’s President applauded Ugwuanyi’s “steady trajectory of massive infrastructural developments” stressing that it has “turned Enugu State into a huge and seamless construction site with all the tiers of government, namely the federal, state and the local at work in project implementation synergy.” According to him, “the above observations by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Enugu State Chapter, are reinforced by the clamour for

endorsements of Governor Ugwuanyi for his re-election as the governor of Enugu State in the 2019 general election”, revealing that “well over 100 groups have endorsed Governor Ugwuanyi to run for a second term” and “the list of such groups above is a tip of the iceberg.” In his remark, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, who witnessed the historic cultural festival with Gov. Ugwuanyi and other dignitaries, noted that the validation by the Enugu State chapter of the organization was an outward demonstration of solidarity for the governor, saying that “you (Ugwuanyi) are such a humble man that I don’t know how low you can get again in order to show more humility”. He said, “I have noted with great satisfaction what the people of Enugu State have said. When I summon the next meeting of Ime-Obi Ohanaeze, which is the highest decision making organ in Igboland, we will take into consideration what was said because Ohanaeze must look at all our governors and their respective states and say our opinions as to who has been doing well. On this note, I say congratulations to you, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as we invite you to come and appreciate what we are doing today”. During the recent workers’ 100 housing units’ ground breaking ceremony, the TUC National President recalled that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration had provided similar 100 units of one-bedroom apartments for the state’s civil servants between grade levels 01-10, who became proud landlords, after the state government paid 54 percent Equity Contribution. Appreciating him further, Comrade Kaigama declared that “Gov. Ugwuanyi is second to none in the provision of workers’ welfare in the South East geo-political zone”, and “a performer and humble leader” who listens when it comes to challenges confronting the workers and the entire people of the state. He stated that the governor has set the pace for other states to emulate, stressing that “Enugu State is working under your leadership and that is not only because you are a performer, but you exhibit the sense of performance with humility”. According to him, “we would say it anywhere because you have done it and you are still doing it. We assure that the working class not only in Enugu State but also in the entire nation is supporting you on your efforts to deliver the dividends of democracy.” -Amoke, writes from Enugu State

The Case for a Clean Administrator in Gombe Aminu Haruna-Aliyu

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o one can be a judge over obedience when such person’s obedience is not complete or put in another way, he that comes to equity must come with clean hands. The principle of clean hands in governance must not be downplayed knowing that governance is a task that is premised on trust and utmost integrity. In a world where integrity, trust, and proven track record with personal platform have become sacrosanct elements of electing political office holders, it will be suicidal to canvass or indulge a person that is bankrupt of these elements. If the latest AMCON list of delinquent debtors’ publication means nothing to those who insist on making Senator Nafada the next governor of Gombe State, it is a wake-up call to the people to wrestle the state from those whose interests tilt towards their personal upbeat. AMCON says 350 Nigerians out of the nearly 200 million are responsible for 80 per cent of AMCON’s N5.4 trillion debt. It is disturbing that Gov. Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo’s favourite governorship candidate. Under the circumstance, an indebted man should not be given a position that requires clean hands to manage the scare resources of

the state. I may be attacked on the pages of newspapers as being unfair by those who have extended their roles of being the mouthpiece of Gov. Dankwambo to being the defenders of Nafada but sincerely I careless and I am unfazed by whatever names I am called as long as the good people of Gombe are fed with the reality on ground, so as not to become the victims of wrong decision. In an era when governance is treading towards a time when greater emphasis is assigned to trust, equity, managerial skill, administrative efficiency, shrewd decision making, and ingenuity in turning the tides against negative indices when they crop up, Dankwambo is bent on imposing Senator Nafada whose administrative inefficiency is unrivalled. As far as the administration of Gov. Dankwambo is concerned, good-governance is a word that has lost its significance in Gombe. To worsen this, Nafada was rigged into becoming the PDP gubernatorial candidate instead of Dr. Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna (JIG), so as to continue with the atrocious style of leadership to cover his administrative ills within the last seven years. The governor’s wish to impose him on the people of the state

is a democratic high tension cable that can incure a historic accident that posterity would never forgive the PDP leadership in Gombe State for. I put up this piece so as to sensitise the good people of Gombe State and the voters who are the ultimate determinant of who steers the ship of governance from 2019, on the need to uphold the important moral principle of good governance. An American author, Kent Nerburn says that ``the greatest enemy of financial well-being is not poverty but debt, ’’ so those working to see that Nafada becomes the governor of the state are doing that for two undeniable reasons: because they do not mean well for the state and for personal interests. Gombe state seeks to be financially prosperous in all sectors. A man can only offer what he has. If a man who has been a member of the House of Representatives and now a senator with such alarming and breath-taking sum being paid as salaries and bonuses still has a few questions to answer concerning his finances, how will he manage the resources of Gombe to bring the state out of the current mismatch between resources and management? In one of his articles, Junaidu Abubakar praised Dankwambo for singlehandedly

bringing Senator Nafada and said it was the best thing his boss has done for the good people of the state as against the will of the people: JIG. The Sardaunan Gombe is a man with the proven track record in finance management and a guru in fiscal policy that has manned several businesses and yet he floats on the sea of integrity for all to see as an example of a financially sufficient leader who needs no government money to do what is right. JIG is a big miss for the PDP, I am sure, but political pride will not make them admit it openly as they are doing secretly. So for those canvassing and praising the act of the governor in imposing Nafada on PDP in Gombe state, I perceived their regrets but it is never too late to do the right thing by allowing your consciences to speak reasoning to your hearts. This was one of the things that JIG saw that made him join the All Progressives Congress (APC). He refused to be amongst men of injustice. Only God knows what is coming next? - Comrade Aminu is the immediate past Bayero UUniversity Kano Student Union Governmemt Secretary General and can be reached via aminugjb@yahoo.com

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2018

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PERSPECTIVE

How Buhari Copied the Good in the PDP Nwachukwu Ngige

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ing Darius I (522 – 486 BC) was the fourth in line and the greatest of the kings of ancient Persia, today’s Iran. During his reign, the empire covered the entire Middle East, modern Turkey and parts of Balkans, India and Asia. His ambitious plan to overrun and annex the city states of Greece, however, met the waterloo at the battle of Marathon where the highly spirited Athenians inflicted a debilitating defeat on the Persians in B.C 490. But that did not detract substantially from Darius’ greatness. His outstanding leadership was distinct in his attitude to the conquered territories. He wisely avoided being a destroyer of territories that came under his flaming sword. Through proper integration rather, he preserved and copied good developments from these nations, building the unique strength of his kingdom on the excels of discoveries and scientific strides of former enemy territories. This could be seen from these instances. When Egypt came under his conquest in B.C 489, he moved in with Persian scientists to understudy the renowned Egyptian artistry in science and medicine. He also copied the Egyptian 12-month calendar year. In Lydia, whose King Croesus, Darius put in chains, he adopted the Lydian coinage. And after defeating Sumerians in long drawn battles, he borrowed its cuneiform system of writing. Kindly fast forward to over 2000 years later when the Allied Powers emerged victorious in the Second World War. Even though Hiroshima and Nagasaki were completely razed, the U.S carefully spirited some of the best Japanese scientists into the USA. Fast-forward to a little above 20 years later. Biafra was an African wonder. A people forced into war to save themselves from well-planned genocide, turned the most difficult of circumstances into attainments never before witnessed anywhere in Africa. The “black” Biafran scientists proved to the entire world that technological invention was not exclusive to the grey matters of the white Caucasians, the yellow Mongolians or the brown Asians. In Biafra, which was under land, sea and air blockade in a vicious surveillance supervised by Britain, Russia and the Arab world, grenade launcher was locally built. In Biafra, armoured personnel carrier

Buhari

as well as four different types of armoured cars (red devils) serving different purposes were also invented. The Biafrans also manufactured armoured tanks, mobile artillery machine, and the mother of all weapons, the Ogbunigwe! Do you know what? The Biafran scientist turned and modernized a private jet into a bomber. In the same national space about 50 years later, a Nigeria Minister of Science and Technology talks about the nation being self-sufficient in manufacturing pencils by 2019! The same man whose brothers in Biafra literally went to the “moon.” There is something wrong with Nigeria! Let’s attempt an explanation with this contrast. Contrary to the far-sightedness of Darius and the fore-thought of the Americans, the Nigerian civil war leaders unfolded a scorch earth programme in post war Biafra. Being hegemonically incensed, ethnically challenged, blindly suspicious and impishly jealous of the Biafran scientific revolution, the poorly edu-

cated, backward-looking Nigerian military rulers, in connivance with their brilliantly satanic civilian collaborators squandered the opportunity to launch Nigeria into a world power. They destroyed the gains of the Biafran war, hoping the Igbo alone would suffer it. Nonetheless, do a fast track to Buhari’s administration. He appears to have learnt from the mistakes of the post war Nigeria. Where many had thought that with the frenetic condemnation of the PDP and its leaders, the current government would banish not only persons but projects associated with them, Buhari has done otherwise. Like Darius I, he chose to adopt and copy the good in the party he defeated in 2015. His determined policy of completing all inherited projects has been to the immense benefit of all Nigerians. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) started the Abuja metro line as well as the Abuja- Kaduna Rail line. Today, Buhari, however, has pulled them to a completion.

The PDP started the Port Harcourt Airport but Buhari completed it. The Treasury Single Account, the completion of many power projects, as well as, many other successes of the Buhari government are linked to the efforts of the previous administration. He has, therefore, proven that government is a continuum and that no matter how bad a situation could be, something good could be salvaged. In summary, while the Buhari regime takes the credit for completing these projects, tributes should not be denied those who initiated and in some cases did over half of the work. Diminishing such efforts is to move forward with head backwards, unable to see the future. This can shrink excellence and blur foresight. After all, Darius did not disfigure the Lydian coinage just to steal its originality nor did he destroy the Sumerian scripts to turn the cuneiform into his invention. -Nwachukwu Ngige is an Abuja based journalist

On Akpabio’s Challenge in Akwa Ibom Wole Arisekola

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hen he announced that he was switching political party loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), many never knew he would gravitate so speedily in a party he was freshly coming into. But recent facts emerging about this Akwa Ibom political kingmaker have proved naysayers wrong about their assessment of the Ukana-born political bulldozer, and this is without any fear of contradiction. Senator Godswill Akpabio, a former Commissioner for Local Government , former Governor of the state, Former Minority Leader has been pulling all the strings in his arsenal to ensure the APC makes a stronger presence in the state, as opposed to his erstwhile party, PDP, which he has vowed to beat hands down in the 2019 general elections.

The Nigeria Media Watch has reiterated Akpabio’s public image standing on the social media as having increased from a low 45 per cent two months ago to 69 per cent, as at, November 5. This is an astronomical rise in acceptability for someone who was coming from the opposition, despite all the shenanigans that have been deployed by his former party to denigrate him. Again, Akpabio’s new-found chemistry with President Muhammadu Buhari is gaining momentum and there are indications that the man may have found a new and better nest in the APC. Forget about the ranting of a few kindergarten politicians in Akwa Ibom State who can only bark on the pages of newspapers, Akpabio is daily proving that his wishes and desires in the state cannot just be wished away, incumbency or not.

He understands the nitty-gritty of politics in the state like the back of his palm. Little wonder, his surrogate and APC governorship candidate for the state in 2019, Obong Nsima Ekere, appears to be confident in his anticipated victory at the polls. It is just like stating the obvious that since Akpabio defected to APC, he has whittled down the almighty power and stronghold of the PDP in the state with people of Akwa Ibom defecting to the APC, which is now giving the ruling PDP in the state sleepless nights. As a political grandmaster and the garrison commander of Akwa Ibom politics, Akpabio knows how to take the battle to the opponent without being scathed. You can hear him from the message of peace he sent to his numerous supporters, “let the PDP continue tearing our billboards,

they can’t tear your ballot paper on the day of the election. I don’t need billboard or poster to win the election in Akwa Ibom Stare.” This is exactly what he has been preaching since the day he moved to APC. Akpabio’s supremacy in the political terrain of the state is like that of a moving train, and anyone who attempts to come in its way may just have himself to blame. It’s about absolute loyalty and untainted commitment to a good cause, which Akpabio has been daily advancing since he moved over to the APC. It is an attestation to the surge in his image on all fronts, especially on the social media, and it is still not abating. Truth be told, the opposition camp must be having a lot to grapple with on their drawing board right now, as they cannot ignore Akpabio’s increasing popularity.

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THISDAYt '3*%": /07&.#&3 Ē ċĉĊđ

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T H I S D AY ˞ ͡, 2018

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET OBB OVERNIGHT

A S

A T

REPO 12.67 % 13.33 %

CALL 1-MONTH 3-MONTH

12.50% 13.50% 13.58%

O C T O B E R S & P INDEX INDEX LEVEL 1-DAY MONTH-TO-DATE

Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email obinna.chima@thisdaylive.com 08024557078, 08152447875

1 9 , 2 0 1 8

350.58 % 0.01% 0.94%

S & P INDEX 1/4 TO DATE 0.94% YEAR TO DATE 6.41%

EXCHANGE RATE N306.50/1US DOLLAR* *AS AT LAST FRIDAY

Quick Takes GTA to Host Accra Weizo

The GhanaTourism Authority has signed a ďŹ ve-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Organisers of Accra Weizo at the ongoing World Travel Market in London. Details of the MoU said the organisation would jointly organise the expo with the owners Akwaaba Travel Market. Accra Weizo has been organised in Ghana for four years now and the 2019 edition has been ďŹ xed for June 22 and 23. This was disclosed by the organisers of Akwaaba, who said Ghana is the leading Meetings Incentives Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination in West Africa and ranks number one on ICCA ratings. Hosting Accra Weizo reinforces the positioning of Accra for MICE and Ghana for Tourism. Weizo has successfully brought travel professionals from dierent countries to Ghana for Tourism Business. TheactingCEOofGhanaTourismAuthority,Mr.AkwasiAgyemansigned on behalf of Ghana and Mr. Ikechi Uko signed on behalf of Akwaaba Travel Market. “ThisagreementoersGhanaanopportunitytohelpbuildupanalready thriving platform into a bigger event. We recognise the eorts and contributions of the organizers but we want the event bigger than it is and we believe it will bring more travel Professionals to Ghana,â€? Agyeman said. OnhispartUkothankedGTAforthepartnership,â€?statefromAkwaabasaid.

ENHANCING TRADE RELATIONS

L-R: Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala-Usman presenting a plaque to the Consul General, Embassy of the Republic of Korea, Kim In-Taek, who paid her a courtesy visit at the NPA headquarters in Lagos‌recently

Report: Nigeria Leads in Piracy Attacks in Gulf of Guinea Eromosele Abiodun Despite efforts by the federal government to reduce the cases of piracy and banditry in Nigeria’s territorial waters, the country still leads in pirates attack in the Gulf of Guinea in the first nine months of 2018, a report by the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has revealed. IMB in its latest quarterly report said a total of 156 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships were reported to its Piracy Reporting Centre in the first nine months of 2018 compared to 121 for the same period in 2017. According to the IMB, “A total of 156 incidents of piracy

MARITIME and armed robbery against ships were reported to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre (PRC) in the first nine months of 2018 compared to 121 for the same period in 2017.The 2018 figure is broken down as 107 vessels boarded, 32 attempted attacks, 13 vessels fired upon and four vessels hijacked –although no vessels were reported as hijacked in Q3 2018.This is first time since 1994when no vessel hijackings have been reported in two consecutive quarters. “The number of crew held hostage (112) for the duration of the incident has increased in

comparison to the same period in 2016 (110) and 2017 (80). The number of crew kidnappings has reduced from 49 in 2017 to 39 in 2018. It is noticeable that 37 of the 39-crew kidnapped for ransom globally, have occurred in the Gulf of Guinea region in seven separate incidents. Twenty-nine crew were kidnapped in four separate incidents off Nigeria –including 12 crew kidnapped from a bulk carrier underway 51nm SW of Bonny Island, Nigeria in September 2018.� It added: “Statistically, the Gulf of Guinea accounts for 57 of the 156 reported incidents. While most of these incidents have been reported in and around Nigeria (41), the

Nigerian Navy has actively responded and dispatched patrol boats when incidents have been reported promptly. There has also been a noticeable increase in the number of vessels boarded at Takoradi anchorage, Ghana. No new incidents have been reported off the coast of Somalia in the third quarter. With the retreating of the SW monsoons this lull may change, and vessels are encouraged to continue to comply with all BMP5 recommendations.� The 2018 figures can be further broken down to 107 vessels boarded, 32 attempted attacks, Continued on page 22

High Air Fare Attributed to Poor Supply, Distribution of Aviation Fuel Chinedu Eze Airline operators have attributed the high cost of air fares to outrageous cost of aviation fuel because of the importation of the product. They also said the product, which takes at least 40 per cent of operation cost, would have been selling for less than its present price if there is efficient distribution through pipelines and hydrants at the airports. Since this year purchase and travel cost of air tickets hovers around N36,000, which is equivalent to $100 for one-hour flight, which could rise as high N45,000 during peak periods. THISDAY learnt that movement of aviation fuel from the depots in Apapa to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos adds to the landing cost

AVIATION per litre of the product. But this additional cost would not exist if the product is piped from Mosimi Depot to the airport and distributed at the apron through hydrants. The operators alleged that the additional cost is applied arbitrarily by each marketer, as marketers charge over N10 per litre, others charge N15 per litre while others charge less. Considering the high volume of fuel that is consumed daily by airlines, they noted that this adds hugely to the total cost of operations, hence the cost is passed to passengers. The Chief Operating Officer of Dana Air, Obi Mbanuzuo and the CEO of Aero Contractors, Capt Ado Sanusi, agreed that air fares would cost less if aviation fuel is sourced locally

and distributed effectively by the marketers. Sanusi, said beside the additional cost of tankering the product from Apapa, there are inherent hazards that are totally avoidable if the product is distributed through pipelines and hydrants. He noted that part of flight delays are caused by the delay in the supply of the product, noting that conveying aviation fuel from Apapa is characterised by traffic gridlocks, precarious challenges like accidents and when the products is brought to the airport there is additional delay to allow possible particles in the fuel to settle at the bottom of the tanker before the aircraft is fuelled. The operators projected that if aviation fuel is refined locally it would drive down its cost by about 28 per cent, which is the

cost of importation, demurrage and logistics. The price of aviation fuel presently ranges from N220 to N280 per litre, depending on the part of the country; the operators said that if the product is sourced locally it would not cost more than N160 per litre. Sanusi recalled that few years ago, operations of Arik Air alone was demanding about 370, 000 of fuel daily because the airline was lifting about 80,000 litres of fuel for New York flight, 60, 000 litres for Lagos-London and 20,000 for Lagos-Johannesburg. The airline then was also demanding about 200,000 litres of fuel daily for domestic operations. Presently, Air Peace operates Continued on page 22

Airbus 330-800 Completes Maiden Flight

The A330-800 development aircraft landed at Toulouse-Blagnac, France after successfully completing its ďŹ rst ight which lasted four hours and four minutes on Tuesday. The aircraft, the second member of the A330neo Family, is powered by the latest technology Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 turbofans. The crew in the cockpit comprised: ExperimentalTest Pilots Malcolm RIDLEY and François Barre andTest-Flight Engineer Ludovic Girard. Meanwhile, monitoring the aircraft systems and performance in real-time at the ight-test-engineer’s (FTE) station were Catherine Schneider and Jose Corugedo Bermejo. “Today’s ďŹ rst ight of the A330-800 is the latest addition to our eďŹƒcient Widebody family,â€? said Guillaume Faury, President Airbus Commercial Aircraft. “The A330-800 is an exceptionally versatile ‘route-opener’, oering unbeatable economics for airlines – encompassing everything from short to very-long haul widebody missions.â€? He added: “We look forward to the successful ight-test campaign, leading to certiďŹ cation next year.â€?

Neimeth Organises Health Week

Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Plc will organise the 2018 environment health safety week from November 8th to 9th. The theme of the conference is “Occupational Safety and Health Vulnerability of workers.â€? A statement made available toTHISDAY noted that the objective of the two-day programme was to further encourage the workforce to develop safety culture at all times and to understand the principles of treatment in a case of emergency and injury. The statement added: “The keynote address will be delivered by Chief Executive OďŹƒcer, Rely Supply Limited, Lagos Mrs. Fayo Williams. The programme will also feature Fire Drills and Health Safety and Environment (HSE) principles by MAN-Fire Service oďŹƒcers and Mr. A Tunde from Friesland Campina as resource person. “It is expected that the Ag. MD/CEO Mr. Chris Mmeje will declare the event open. All staers are enjoined to participate in the activities of the week and pay special attention to HSE standard of operations.â€?

Group Holds Awards

The Awesome Brands Magazine has announced plan to host the annual outstanding brand awards and summit. The event will hold in Lagos this weekend. The award is being organised in conjunction with some partners of the company. According to the organisers the award was organised to rewardexcellenceperformancesofsomebrands,despiteundergoing diďŹƒcult times, as the year 2018 is gradually drawing to an end, and no doubt businesses in Nigeria are. “Some businesses in spite of the challenges are thriving, contributing to the economic growth of the country.

“Now you want us to enhance the services, you want us to provide better radios, better communication, better navigation, better surveillance, knowing that equipment over time degrades, it has to be maintained; it has to be upgraded; for us to continue to do this, we need funds� MD, NAMA,

Captain Fola Akinkuotu

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T H I S D AY ˞ ͡, 2018

BUSINESSWORLD REPORT: NIGERIA LEADS IN PIRACY ATTACKS IN GULF OF GUINEA 13 vessels fired upon and four vessels hijacked, although no vessels were reported as hijacked in the second or third quarter of 2018. This marks the first time since 1994 when no vessel hijackings have been reported in two consecutive quarters. Despite this statistic, the number of crew members held hostage increased compared to the same period in 2017, from 80 incidents to 112 by the third quarter of 2018. Commenting on the report, Director of IMB, Pottengal Mukundan said: “While the record low number of hijackings in the second and third quarters of 2018 is of course to be celebrated, incidents of maritime piracy and armed robbery remain common. ICC urges governments to leverage the timely data available from the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre to concentrate resources in these hotspots.� The IMB noted that 37 of the 39 crew kidnappings for ransom taking place around the world have occurred in the Gulf of Guinea region, in seven separate incidents. The reports revealed that a total of 29 crew members were kidnapped in four separate incidents off Nigeria – including a 12-crew kidnapping from a bulk carrier off Bonny Island, Nigeria in September 2018. HIGH AIR FARE ATTRIBUTED TO POOR SUPPLY, DISTRIBUTION OF AVIATION FUEL about 90 flights daily, Arik Air, 55 flights daily, Dana Air about 25 flights daily and Aero Contractors, 20 flights daily, making it 190 flights a day. The average aircraft that operates the domestic routes is Boeing B737 classic or New Generation operated by Arik Air and these take about 4000 per flight, bringing the total fuel consumed daily on domestic flight alone to 760, 000 litres. The operators said this is huge cost to their operations, noting that the solution to the high cost of air fares is cheaper cost of aviation fuel “and this can only be possible if we begin to produce fuel locally.�

NEWS

ICRC Reiterates Commitment to Drive PPP Initiative Ugo Aliogo The Acting Director-General, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Dr. Chidi Izuwah, has reiterated the federal government’s commitment towards driving Public Private Partnership (PPP) in its quest to address the infrastructural deficit facing the country. Izuwah stated this in Lagos at the Association for Consulting Engineering in Nigeria (ACEN) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and its 40th annual conference with the theme: ‘Addressing the Challenges of Engineering Infrastructural development in Nigeria.’ He also noted that government has made remarkable progress in its PPP initiative, adding that ICRC have achieved some level of success in the Lekki Deep Water port project, and they have also done the solar rooftop for the Ministry of Health. Izuwah also explained that the concession of the Kanji and Sheba were working successfully. He said many of those plants were doing half of their capacity, before they were concessioned, but with private sector investment funding through private capital, the capacity has been raised. The ICRC boss explained that PPP changes incentive structure. “PPP changes incentive structure, and if the PPP is not providing services, the investor gets no money. I agree that we need to do more PPP compared to the ones we have done. “We have seen the green shoots, but it is for us to move on the highway to PPP for Nigeria infrastructure progress. “We have don’t have infrastructural challenge, what we have are opportunities. No country can become economic

buoyant without infrastructure. If we want to move rapidly in infrastructure as a country, we need include engineers. “Finance is not the problem, we need to demonstrate how we are getting the funding and finance will come. For you to attract finance, your project must be bankable. “There is a different between finance and funding. Finance refers to the upfront

capital that you require to pay for a project, while funding refers to what you use to pay for the finance.� Earlier in his address, the Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, affirmed that the state government doesn’t have any record of building collapse or unethical behaviour from members of the association. Ambode urged the association to come up with innovative

home based solutions to solve the teeming infrastructural challenges being faced in the state. The governor who was represented at the event by the state Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Jimi Hotonu, further stated that the state government would welcome new technologies and partnership to develop the state with sustainable funding solution outside the infrastructural budget in line

with international best practices. He added: “The state being one of the first to domesticate the public procurement act, is open and welcoming to professionals within your association. “We implore you to join hands with us to develop the state as any development plan prepared without inputs from Nigeria professional, especially well informed a group such as yours is bound to have limited success.�

TRANSFORMING AFRICA’S TRADE

L-R: Afreximbank Consultant on Financial Institutions and Trade Finance, Mr. Ademola Adeyinka; Manager, Guarantees and Specialised Finance, Mr. Afolabi Obisesan; Manager, Standard Chartered Bank, Ibiyemi Okuneye; Finance Manager, Standard Chartered Bank, Mr. Khurrum Zaeem and Manager Finance, Wema Bank, Mercy Femi-Olagundoye, during a roadshow organised by Afreximbank on how to transform Africa’s trade, held in Lagos...recently PHOTO: DAN UKANA

FG Woos Canadian Govt to Mining Sector Kasim Sumaina in Abuja The federal government has assured Canadian investors of incentives and conducive environment needed for their investments to thrive. The Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, gave this assurance at the on-going two-day, Nigeria-Canada Investment Summit with the theme: ‘Fostering Strong Business Partnership into the Future’. This is even as the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Alhaji Abubakar Bwari, stressed that the vast

opportunities that exists in both the down and upstream sectors of Nigeria mineral development are clearer and ready for exploitation. Osinbajo, in a statement by the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, affirmed the tremendous opportunities for increased scope of trade and investment between Canada and Nigeria as he stressed the need to fully realised Nigeria immense investment potentials. He stated the various reforms put in place by the government of Nigeria to improve the ease of doing

business in the country. He made reference to the inauguration of the Presidential Enabling Environment Committee (PEEC) being chaired by him as part of government efforts at improving the ease of doing business in Nigeria. The Committee according to him, was charged with progressively removing the challenge face by investors in doing business in Nigeria and ensure coordination across several ministries and agencies of government. “With the supports of the leadership of the National assembly and state govern-

ment, we were able to drive reforms that held us a place as one of the World’s 10 hub performing economy.� The Vice President was confident that government’s on-going efforts of harnessing the entrepreneur energy of Nigeria youthful population, would bring about meaningful contributions to Nigeria GDP and in developing home grown solution that would help the country achieve the sustainable development goals. He noted that the Nigeria Economic Recovery Growth Plan (ERGP) of the government has identified some

of the sectors that many Canadian investors are already familiar with as priority sectors. These according to him include; power generation, devolvement of gas to power, mining and solid minerals. Others are agriculture, food processing, manufacturing and real estate. “Towards the achievement of ERGP, we conducted focus labs which are special intervention targeted at resolving specific bureaucratic bottlenecks facing large scale investments in Nigeria,�, he further explained.

Group Business Editor

Obinna Chima

AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

‘Businesses Should Take Advantage of Strategic Opportunities’

Comms/e-Business Editor

Bennett Oghifo

Capital Market Editor

Businesses have been advised to take advantage of opportunities in the environment where they operate. The Adjunct Professor, IE Business School, Kenneth Dubin gave the advice, described a non-market environment as everything that is beyond the buying and selling of goods and services. He spoke at the 8th Detail Business Series seminar organ-

Jonathan Eze Emma Okonji

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)

ised by Lagos-based law firm, Detail Commercial Solicitors (DETAIL), recently. Dubin, said this while delivering a keynote speaker at the seminar tagged: ‘The NonMarket Environment, The Most Overlooked Challenge Facing Businesses Today.’ He noted that: “The nonmarket deals with interactions companies have with stakeholders in government and society. A major part of what goes on in every market is determined

by the non-market environment. “Non-market factors such as laws, regulations, policy and social issues heavily influence the market environment in which businesses operate.� He emphasised that though most companies were aware of non-market forces, they typically are not thinking strategically of opportunities available in the non-market environment. “When I say companies are ignoring the non-market forces, it doesn’t mean they are not

aware of it. “But they don’t think that having a strategy in the nonmarket environment can help transform their businesses. They tend to be reactive as they believe politicians are people you have to avoid. “One has to first understand the non-market forces that make sense for one’s business. Once you understand the non-market issues facing your business based on an assessment of your market strategies, then

you can talk about opportunities and threats presented by such non-market factors. “When companies think of this systematically, it becomes obvious that every business needs to have some kind of non-market strategy,� he said. The professor said it was not necessary to get too close to politicians before a company could get involved in politics, saying, “Getting involved in politics doesn’t necessarily mean making friends with politicians.�

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BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

Air Peace Resumes Flight to Kaduna Stories by Chinedu Eze Air Peace on Monday resumed its Kaduna flight services. The airline also pledged to maintain its standard on safety and comfort of its passengers. The airline explained that it suspended its Lagos-KadunaLagos flights on October 21, 2018, in order to safeguard lives of its customers and staff due to the crisis that engulfed the state. The Corporate Communications Manager, Mr. Chris Iwarah, said the airline restored its Kaduna flights based on the state government’s assurance that the security situation had improved. The airline empathised with members of the flying public who were affected by the suspension of its flights into and out of Kaduna, commending them for their cooperation and understanding while the development lasted. The airline reiterated that it would continue to sustain its observance of strict safety

standards in its flight operations to safeguard the lives of its customers, crew and other staff. Iwarah, said Air Peace has maintained high safety standard since it started operation four years ago and explained that it cannot compromise its standard operating procedure, no matter the circumstances. “We are reputed for running a very strict safety and maintenance programme and have sustained this in the four years of our flight operations. In the last four years of our flight services, our operations have been subjected to the scrutiny of reputable corporate and regulatory organisations and we acquitted ourselves creditably. Just within two years of our operations, we secured our International Air Transport Association Organisational Safety Audit (IOSA) certificate. Our IOSA certificate was renewed in April 2018 after our operations were subjected to a tougher scrutiny by IATA. “We quite understand that aircraft are machines and

as such can malfunction without warning. Besides, weather is a recurring issue in aviation all over the world. When there is a technical or weather challenge, our practice is never to take any risk however slight the situation may be. “We have mandated our pilots to always err on the side of safety and they have continued to display professional discipline in this regard. When our pilots have any doubt with regard to technical or weather issues, the practice is to return to base or divert to the closest airport for checks or to wait till it is safe to operate the flight,� Iwarah said. He also noted that although the airline’s pro-safety approach comes with a huge financial burden, “we are pleased that its guarantees the lives of our valued guests, crew and other members of the Air Peace family, including our chairman and directors who fly us because they are sure of the depth of maintenance we do,� Air Peace said.

FG Pledges to Support Air TrafďŹ c Controllers The federal government has pledged to support the manpower development of air traffic controllers and to collaborate with relevant stakeholders in the aviation industry. This is to ensure the continuous safety and seamlessness of air navigation in the country. The Minister of State, Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, made this known when he declared open the 29th International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Association (IFATCA) Africa and Middle East Regional Meeting at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja recently. Sirika said government was prepared to partner with the international body of air traffic controllers in a bid to ensure safe skies both in Nigeria and globally “given that the job of an air traffic controller is both crucial and critical to the overall safety of air travel.â€? Sirika noted that in government’s determination to ensure that air traffic controllers

are proficient in their job, it has made deliberate and aggressive effort in the area of operational manpower training and retraining, stressing that a high number of air traffic controllers have been trained and employed under his watch as Minister, while some are currently undergoing training at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria. He also disclosed that another set of air traffic controllers trained by the Kano State government have been absorbed into the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA). The Aviation Minister also said as part of effort to make the job of air traffic controllers more efficient and less cumbersome, government had earlier deployed ADS-C/ CPDLC (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Contract/ Controller Pilot Data Link Communication) both in Kano and Lagos Area Control Centres (ACCs). Sirika, who was accom-

panied to the event by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Alh. Sabiu Zakari and heads of aviation parastatals assured the delegates that the federal government would implement the outcome of their deliberations as “IFATCA remains a critical stakeholder in the global aviation family.� Earlier in his welcome address, the President of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) Mr Victor Eyaru, said the gathering would “focus mainly on intensifying efforts to achieving unbroken air safety within our region and beyond and this requires the collaborative effort across the borders to ensure seamless, safe and efficient air navigation.� He lamented however that the Africa and Middle East region which has more than 15 per cent global population contributes marginally to global air travel adding that the time had come for the region the put its act together and take up the challenge.

African Airlines Record Passenger Growth African airlines posted about six per cent rise in demand for airline passenger transport as demand slows globally in September 2018, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). IATA noted that passenger traffic in September went down from 6.8 per cent in August, but capacity rose 4.9 per cent and load factor edged up 0.8 percentage point to 74.6 per cent. “The healthy growth is taking place against an increasingly challenging economic backdrop for the region’s largest economies, South Africa and Nigeria,� IATA noted.

However, IATA said globally demand rose 5.5 per cent compared to the same month in 2017. This was a slowdown from the 6.4 per cent growth recorded in August year-over-year. Capacity climbed 5.8 per cent and load factor slipped for the first time in eight months, down 0.3 percentage point compared to the year-earlier period, to 81.4 per cent. IATA estimated that impacts from severe hurricane and typhoon activity in September shaved around 0.1-0.2 percentage point off expected growth. However, even after accounting for these impacts,

monthly traffic demand was below the 6.7 per cent year-to-date pace. “While September’s traffic growth was in line with the long-term average, it represents a moderation compared to recent months. “This is likely owing to the anticipated reduced demand boost from lower airfares due to rising airline cost pressures, particularly fuel. Heightened uncertainty about trade policies and mounting protectionist policies may also be having an impact,� said IATA’s Director General and CEO, Alexandre de Juniac.

AIR WATCH As SAHCOL Goes Public

L-R: Managing Director, Vetiva, Mr Chuka Eseka; Chairman, Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc, Dr Taiwo Afolabi; Director General, Bureau of Public Enterprises, Mr Alex Okoh and Managing Director/ CEO, Skyway Aviation Handling Company, Mr Basil Agboarumi, at a ceremony to announce SAHCOL’s public offering held in Lagos‌recently

On Monday the Skyway Aviation Handling Company Limited (SAHCOL) offered 49 per cent of its shares to the public and with its planned listing in the Nigerian Stock Exchange, the company would now be known as Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO). The company offered for sale 406,074,000 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N4.65 per share. The company, which is one of the foremost handling companies in Nigeria, is going public four years behind the stipulated time the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) indicated when the former subsidiary of Nigeria Airways, Skypower Aviation Handling Company Limited was sold to Sifax in 2009. The Director-General of National Council of Privatisation (NCP), Alex Okoh who lauded SAHCOL’s performance nine years after privatisation, explained that the company was privatised when the government decided to do away with some of its assets. He said since its privatisation, the ground handling company has continued to grow its assets and emerged as one of the leaders in the ground handling business in Nigeria. He said during the period SAHCOL was privatised, the BPE had the agenda that government is not the best manager of businesses, noting that SAHCOL was previously owned 100 per cent by the federal government before the privatisation exercise in 2009. According to the BPE boss, privatisation entailed a full 100 per cent sale to Sifax Group in 2009. “However, rule guiding the sale at that point in time was that Sifax Group would offer to the public certain percentage of the shares through a public offering. “This is important because we believe essentially that on the issues that what is sentimentally viewed as national patrimony should not be assumed to have been sold to friends or relations to top government officials and we believe that the most veritable channel of democratising the process of the sale of public assets is through initial public offering, which would give Nigerians the opportunity to buy into the public asset according to their capacity. “That is why we are doing this in time and we would like to congratulate SAHCOL for creating for us one of the success stories of privatisation. “If you look at the kind of investment that has gone into SAHCOL post- privatisation and significant market share that the business has been able to generate in

the aviation ground handling sub-sector, you will realise that it was a smart decision to privatise the company at the time that we did. “So we hope that the public will take advantage of this offer and subscribe to the shares,� he said. During the signing ceremony, the Chairman Sifax Group of Companies, Taiwo Afolabi said acceptance list would open on November 12, 2018 while it would close on December 19, 2018. He recalled that as at 2009, the net asset of SAHCOL was N3 billion, but has grown to N15 billion as at 2018 after privatisation. He added that since privatisation, SAHCOL had built strong competence as one of the leading aviation ground handling service providers in Nigeria, growing its market share from 21 per cent in 2009 to over 40 per cent at present with over 100 per cent growth in revenue and total assets. He added: “SAHCO’s future strategy is to create long term shareholder value through the profitable operation and expansion of its business beyond Nigeria and into other West African markets with a vision to become the leading provider of passenger, ramp and cargo handling services in the West Africa sub-region. “Based on the terms of the executed Share Sale and Purchase Agreement (SSPA) in respect of the privatisation of the erstwhile Skypower, the shareholders of the company are obligated to divest 49 per cent equity stake in SAHCO to the investing Nigerian public, with 10 per cent of the shares to be divested, sold to the staff of the company.� He said huge investment was committed in the company since its acquisition by the Sifax Group, noting that to make it competitive and to enable it wrest some market share from its rival, heavy handling equipment were acquired by the company, which built the most modern and most sophisticated storage and handling facility in the country. This he noted took huge chunk of investment to do. Also, the Managing Director of SAHCOL, Basil Agboarumi, said the company would have been enlisted on NSE few years back, but the level of investments in the ground handling company over the years did not encourage such idea at the time. He noted that on privatisation in 2009, market share of SAHCOL was just 20 per cent, but had grown to about 50 per cent nine years later. “We were building a lot of things is SAHCOL immediately we took over from the government. Within the period, we have built the best warehouse and trained and grew our manpower,� Agboarumi said.

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Declaration of Emergency on Enugu Airport Some pilots operating flights to the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu recently called the attention of concerned authorities to the dilapidated nature of the runway, which they described as death trap. Chinedu Eze writes on the need for collaboration between the Enugu State government and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria to improve facilities at the airport When the federal government designated Enugu as an international airport in 2013 and it recorded its inaugural flight to Addis Ababa, the people of the south-east were elated. In fact, one prominent minister from the zone shed tears of joy to see that the airport, after many years of clamour, was approved to operate international service. Industry observers then gave kudos to the then Minister of Aviation, Senator Stella Oduah, who put all the efforts to ensure that the efforts made towards that by her predecessors came to fruition. Industry stakeholders from the south-east zone had pointed out that it was surprising to note that when Muhammadu Buhari administration took over in 2015, the Minister of State, Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, showed similar passion to see that critical projects were upgraded at the airport, despite the fact that Enugu was not one of the catchment areas of the ruling party. THISDAY learnt that the new government continued work on the international terminal project lulled by technical and funding challenges. Work was started on the problematic runway to re-channel underwater that settled immediately under the runway that made it to break down so often. The federal government through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), wanted to upgrade not only the terminal facilities at the airport, but also the critical infrastructure on the airside, like the runway, airfield lighting, the approach light and also the instrument landing system (ILS) so that flights could operate in the night at the airport. Problem with Enugu Airport When the first international flight took off from the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu on August 13, 2013, it was expected that five years later the airport would be servicing at least three more international carriers. This was because industry market analysts believed that the airlines would attract international passengers from different parts of the south-east and south-south regions of the country who would spend less than two hours to the airport and board their flights rather than travel about six hours to Abuja or Lagos to travel overseas. But after the excitement that trailed the first flight by Ethiopia Airlines, which has continued to maintain that route, no other airline has started operation from the airport. THISDAY spoke to the Manager of Enugu Airport, Mr. Mgbemene Orji, who explained why the airport has not attracted more international carriers. Orji said the airport cannot operate 24 hours because of structural deficiencies at the airport, but for now it could only operate from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm daily. The Manager said there is no enough water for firefighting because it is difficult to dig borehole at the airport due to coal deposits. Currently the airport management buys water from tankers every day, but this is not enough to provide adequate fire cover for large body aircraft or higher number of aircraft traffic. “Currently we are building overhead tank but it is nothing if we cannot source underground water, which will be in adequate supply to meet the fire cover needs,� Mgbemene told THISDAY recently. He explained that there are no approach lights, which are usually located at the two ends of the runway, about four kilometers before the runway. These are lights that guide the aircraft to the runway, especially in the night. “On one side of the approach to the runway, there is Orie Emene Market, which must be relocated so that the approach light can be installed. The other side of the approach is located at Abakpa Nike area of Enugu. “The day FAAN engineers wanted to install lights at that area, the indigenes said they were not compensated for the land and therefore would not allow the installation.� The Airport Manager also disclosed that there are two masts, one owned by Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) and the other by the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) at the Abakpa Nike end of the runway. These masts obstruct flight approach, necessitating that immediately the aircraft takes off

Enugu Airport it must bank right to avoid collision with the masts. This makes flying to Enugu airport more difficult during the Harmattan. THISDAY also learnt that more international airlines would be operating to Enugu if these obstacles are removed. The benefits of 24 hours flight operations to Enugu include more jobs for the citizens, people travelling at their convenience and also more businesses coming to the city and environs. FAAN believes that the Enugu State government could help to solve these problems because it would be of immense benefit to the state and its people when more airlines begin to fly to Enugu, popularly known as Coal City. For example, Enugu state government can settle the host community at the Abakpa Nike area so that the approach light can be installed by compensating them for the land even engage them to protect the installation and the state government can also relocate the Orie Market in Emene. Collaboration The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Saleh Dunoma, had met with the governor of Enugu state, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and enumerated the above problems to him. He explained to the Governor that FAAN was willing to revamp the safety critical infrastructure at the airport, but lacks the political will and the jurisdiction to move residents from the runway area or pipe water from the Ekulu river to the

Currently we are building overhead tank but it is nothing if we cannot source underground water, which will be in adequate supply to meet the ďŹ re cover needs

airport, noting that these are responsibilities of the state government. Dunoma therefore, appealed to the state governor to support the agency to upgrade the airport. Earlier this year, Sirika after inspecting facilities at the airport also met with the governor and had highlighted the challenges. Sirika had also informed the governor that FAAN had acquired airfield lighting and approach light to install at the airport if he could remove the aforementioned obstacles. Edo Example Recently the Governor of Edo state, Godwin Obaseki confirmed that it has been collaborating with the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to provide ILS to the Benin airport so that flights can lead at the airport in the night. Obaseki did not collaborate with NAMA alone; his government also worked with other aviation agencies to ensure that infrastructure at the Benin airport is improved. Incidentally, the day the Sirika inspected facilities at the Enugu airport he also flew to Benin airport and also inspected the airport. Just as he met the Governor of Enugu airport and informed him the ways he could help to improve facilities at the airport after the inspection, Sirika also met Obaseki and had tabled the issues with Benin airport to him and also sought his support. Since then, the Edo state government and the aviation agencies have been working to provide essential amenities at the airport. Runway THISDAY gathered that the only commitment the Enugu state government has since made was the establishment of a committee to look into the problems raised by the Minister and Managing Director of FAAN. Recently when the governors of south-east states raised the alarm about the state of the runway of the airport, the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Muhtar Usman, had led a team from Lagos to inspect the runway and other safety critical facilities at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. Usman, who was then accompanied by FAAN’s Director of Engineering, Salisu Daura, said the runway needed resurfacing instead of patchworks, but noted that if the state government had one what was needed, as the runway is being resurfaced those other critical facilities like airfield lighting would be installed, adding that such facilities were not extended when the runway length and width was expanded to take in bigger aircraft. Daura made it clear that all the equipment for

the approach light and airfield lighting had been procured but they could not be installed because the state government could not clear the places where the facilities and equipment could be installed. Daura reiterated at the meeting that FAAN was willing to pipe water from Ekulu Rivers at its own expense to the airport, if the state government could give approval for FAAN to source the water. Stakeholders Various opinions are of the view that the Enugu state government and the governors of south-east states may not appreciate the importance of the facility to the people of the region. Many businessmen and women in different parts of the zone travelled and still travel out of Nigeria through that airport. A renowned pilot and industry investor who is also an indigene of the state, told THISDAY, “It is quite obvious that state governments in south-east, and Enugu state government in particular, do not appreciate the importance of Enugu airport to the region. “Enugu airport being the only international airport in the region is at the verge of total collapse, and for avoidable reasons if the host state understands and appreciates the importance. “Though it is very obvious the current government in Enugu has no clue to its responsibility when it comes to infrastructural provisions.� He said the corresponding support the Ministry of Aviation and its agencies and particularly FAAN and NAMA required of Enugu state government have never been attended to, even when the agencies have severally made those requests. “If the immediate past government in Enugu had displayed this amount of lethargic and careless attitude towards FAAN, the designation of Enugu Airport as an international one would have been a mirage; but no, Enugu had a governor who knew the importance of such enablers of realistic developments to the region and rallied together all the government agencies; Ministers, Parliamentarians and all, to achieve what we know today as Akanu Ibiam International Airport Enugu. “What would it cost a serious minded state government to move FM mast; persuade or compel villagers to give way to navigational aid installations and even encourage FAAN to resurface the airport runway that has been a nightmare to aircraft pilots for some time now? “Too bad federal government cannot come all the way from Abuja to spoon feed a region: the people from that region led by a governor they had put in office would have to be the road pointer to development that will change their fortunes,� he also said.

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Maritime Silk Road as Game Changer for Global Transport Eromosele Abiodun writes that the Maritime Silk Road initiative promoted by China to develop international shipping connectivity across South East Asia, Africa, Oceania and Indian Ocean will open new markets in global commerce, improve connectivity between modes of transport, enhance speed and efficiency at the ports Recently, China’s government mapped out an ambitious plan, the Maritime Silk Road Initiative (MSRI), to establish three “blue economic passages� that will connect Beijing with economic hubs around the world. The MSRI is the maritime dimension of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which could include $1.4 trillion (N504 trillion) in new roads, railways, ports, and other infrastructure. According to the Chinese government, the MSRI is intended to increase global integration and boost growth. However, some analysts question China’s motivations, particularly those behind its investments in ports. During the first half of 2017 alone, Chinese companies announced plans to buy or invest in nine overseas ports, five of which are in the Indian Ocean. Those critical of the MSRI typically argue that while some economic factors may be at play, these investments are driven primarily by strategic objectives. At the heart of this critique is a concern that China will use ports associated with the MSRI to service military assets deployed to the region in support of China’s growing security interests. These concerns have focused on several port projects, including those in Gwadar, Pakistan; Hambantota, Sri Lanka; and Kyaukpyu, Myanma. The MSRI has its historical legacy that can be traced back to more than two millennia ago when the Chinese, Hindus, and Arabs exchanged goods through maritime sailing. During the Song and Yuan Dynasties, Quanzhou became the largest oriental port, on a par with Alexandria of Egypt. The Maritime Silk Road refers to the maritime section of historic silk road that connects China to Southeast Asia, Indonesian archipelago, Indian subcontinent, Arabian Peninsula, Somalia and all the way to Egypt and finally Europe, which flourished between 2nd-century BCE and 15th-century CE. The trade route encompassed numbers of seas and ocean; including South China Sea, Strait of Malacca, Indian Ocean, Gulf of Bengal, Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. The maritime route overlaps with historic Southeast Asian maritime trade, Spice trade, Indian Ocean trade and after 8th century—the Arabian naval trade network. The network also extends eastward to East China Sea and Yellow Sea to connect China with Korean Peninsula and Japanese archipelago. Experts believe the development of port cities constitutes an integral part of multiple international economic cooperation corridors, including the new Eurasian Continental Bridge, China-Mongolia-Russia, China-Central Asia-West Asia, and China-Indo China Peninsula corridors. On the other hand, the hinterland development and its transportation networks are also essential in supporting and sustaining major port cities and areas. Analysts said the belt and road initiative will help realise the free flow of land and maritime economic factors, promote cultural exchange and mix between coastal and inland regions, and facilitate the development of safe and efficient land-and-sea major transportation channels, bringing forth common prosperity for both the coastal and inland population. As countries navigate through the adjustment after the international financial crisis, experts stressed that they must seize the opportunities of rapidly growing global ocean economy, and establish pivots and corridors for maritime economic cooperation. To achieve the goal, they stressed that countries intensify efforts to promote maritime transportation, resources development, environment protection, scientific research, tourism, archaeology, and port economic zone development. At an international symposium on maritime silk road of the 21st century, tagged, “Building the Maritime Silk Road of the 21st Century with Open Mind and Bold Courage,� recently, former Foreign Minister and Chairman of China Public Diplomacy Association Mr. Li Zhaoxing said the development of the maritime silk road of the 21st century, are very instrumental in promoting the development of the ocean economy and maritime cooperation among participating countries. Delivering Results “In less than a year and a half since the Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the belt and road initiative, China together with its partners are already delivering fruitful results. China has made substantive progress in policy planning and mechanism building. Through series domestic and international conferences, different local regions, the academia, business community, cultural sector, and overseas Chinese communities have all been mobilised to contribute to the initiative. People have expressed high appreciations for the silk road spirit and the proposal of Economic Cooperation Corridor among major economies. “Over 50 states and the EU, ASEAN, SCO, UN

ESCAP and other international organisations have responded positively to the initiative. China has signed the Belt and Road cooperation agreements with Kazakhstan and other states, achieving breakthroughs with partner countries on projects and programs ranging from transport infrastructure to industrial development, and to people-to-people exchange. In addition, the Silk Road Fund has been successfully launched and 26 states have signed up as charter members to establish the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB),� he said. Compared with the silk road overland, he said the maritime silk road shares similarities but also has its unique characters. He added: “It has its own set of advantages, potentials, as well as difficulties and challenges. Going forward, I believe the success of the MSRI of the 21st Century would require effective efforts to coordinate our cooperation. To make that happen, we must equip ourselves with an open mind as broad as that of an ocean and muster courage strong enough to brave winds and waves. “Like the vastness of the ocean comes from its accepting of thousands of rivers, to ensure constant progress under this initiative, China will continue, as we’ve always done, to earnestly heed the opinions and advice and fully consider the interests and concerns of all our partners. We will remain committed to open regionalism, and will refrain from closed blocs and arrangements targeted at the third party. “We will seek to cooperate with other regional initiatives and mechanisms, and would welcome countries outside the region to actively participate in appropriate ways. In the future, the Belt and Road will foster large numbers of economic and people-to-people cooperation projects. We look forward to the valuable contribution from international organisations, multinational corporations, financial institutions, and non-governmental organisations.� Opportunity for Africa Meanwhile, Nigeria may have taken the lead in the drive to ensure that the African continent maximizes the benefits that are imbedded in the MSRI. This is because it is believed the initiative will substantially affect the pattern of global commerce in the near future. Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside, who is leading the charge told news men last week that the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative, also known as the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st-century Maritime Silk Road, will be a game changer for global transport and substantially affect the pattern of global commerce. Dakuku stated this in Dubai Maritime Summit 2018, which was part of the events at the five-day UAE Maritime Week 2018. Speaking on the benefits and risks of the BRI, a Chinese government development strategy aimed at enhancing regional connectivity through infrastructure development and investments in Europe, Asia and Africa, the DG urged African and Middle East countries to plan mitigation measures against potential risk elements of the initiative.

He identified the likely risk elements to include trade imbalance in favour of China and Chinese control of trade infrastructure, which will give it a lot of leverage in the global market place. Dakuku said: “Chinese policy will affect port calls and hub decisions, which may adversely affect ports of Africa and Middle East; Chinese political influence and dominance leading to reintroduction of Sino centric order is imminent; the tanker market will shrink substantially, as pipelines across continents will be the preferred mode of transportation of oil and gas.� However, he said the benefits of the Chinese economic initiative outweighed the risks. At the event, the panellists unanimously agreed that the China Belt and Road initiative would open new markets in global commerce, improve connectivity between modes of transport, enhance speed and efficiency at the ports, open new international trade routes, and boost technology transfer. On the panel to discuss the initiative were Managing Director of Precious Shipping, Khalid Hashim; Chief Executive Officer of King Abdallah Port, Rayan Qutub; Chief Executive Officer of Drewey, Tim Power; and CCO of Abu Dhabi Ports, Ross Thompson. The Dubai Maritime Summit brought together the maritime sector’s leaders, decision makers, policymakers, high-level government officials, and regional and international maritime industry leaders to deliberate on issues affecting the global maritime industry. Previous editions included some of the most distinguished local and international guests, such as Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Kitack Lim, and UAE Minister of Infrastructure Development and Chairman of the Federal Transport Authority, Land and Maritime, H.E. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi. The belt and road initiative is the signature policy of Chinese President Jinping. The basic idea behind it is to boost trade and economic integration among the countries in the initiative through investments in roads, pipelines, ports, communication networks and other such infrastructure that promotes connectivity. The Dakuku-led administration of NIMASA has continued to collaborate with other maritime nations to transform and bring Nigeria’s maritime sector to international limelight, so that it can compete favourably with those of other countries. Peterside had at a separate forum recently charged African governments to protect economic their interest to ensure that the people of Africa benefits from the wealth of the continent. Peterside who was speaking as the chairman of the 29th annual session of club of ports of the Crans Montana forum currently ongoing in Brussels, Belgium said that the maritime silk roads come with a lot of benefits for the continent. He, however, charged African countries to be strategic in decision making in order to reap the rewards and avert some perceived risk inherent in the initiative. According to him, “Whereas China is pursuing new transportation linkages throughout the Eurasia region and Africa to boost trade and enhance her

economic status; Africa must key in to develop her port infrastructure, maritime assets financing and create jobs for her people.� Speaking further, the NIMASA boss listed potential threats such as likelihood of ports being taken over by the Chinese to the detriment of Africans noting that the maritime Silk Road initiative will create opening for African markets to be flooded with Chinese goods. Peterside, also said that as a result of the China driven initiative, Chinese policy may also affect port calls and hub decisions. He warned that the oil tanker and gas markets will be affected by the construction of new pipelines that will connect Africa to China which will engender Chinese political dominance in Africa if not carefully managed. The NIMASA boss further advocated the support of the China led maritime Silk Road initiative but charged Africa to do the needful to ensure her economic interests is fully protected. Effective Intermodal Connectivity Peterside stressed the importance of effective intermodal connectivity to port efficiency. He stated that good port-city linkage systems would facilitate seamless transport and create immeasurable positive effect on the economy. Also, he noted that the quality of the rail and road transport connection to a port has an impact on the cargo throughput of the port. He said: “The efficiency of a port is measured by the average quantity of import and export cargoes it is able to handle in a single day. A port with bad road and rail facilities will have low cargo throughput, all other factors remaining equal. While ships start and end their journey in a port, the cargoes in most cases originate and end up far from the ports. This in effect implies that without the connection of other modes of transport to a seaport especially rail and road transport, the port becomes crippled and the sea transport becomes inefficient.� While noting that some port managements, particularly in developing countries do not still understand the level of impact an effective intermodal connectivity has on the efficiency of their ports, the NIMASA DG pointed out to the international audience that Nigeria under the current leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari through the Federal Ministry of Transportation is investing heavily on linking all major sea ports and airports to the cities through rail and good access roads to further boost the economy. In his words “The Nigerian Government under the leadership of President Buhari is investing heavily in using rail to link both the seaports and the airports to all major cities in the country. Our quest to enhance the quality of the rail and road transport connection to all ports in Nigeria is to ensure seamless transportation of goods and services through the ports.� Peterside opined that the turnaround time in most African ports is too high because of the inefficiency and lack of necessary port infrastructure which leads to longer dwell time for vessels and cargoes in the ports.

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NPA Expresses Commitment to Achieving ISO 9001 CertiďŹ cation Stories by Eromosele Abiodun The Managing Director, Nigerian Port Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala-Usman, has expressed commitment to achieving the ISO 9001 & OHSAS 18001 certification, with a view to accelerating efficiency in the agency. To this end, she issued a 90-day ultimatum to the relevant divisions and departments in NPA to accomplish all the identified critical requirements needed

to ensure the successful attainment of the ISO 9001 Certification project. Speaking at a management awareness workshop on the subject in Lagos, Bala-Usman implored all the NPA top cadre management officers to fully identify with its vision in achieving the ISO compliance and certification. The awareness workshop, which is being managed by the Renner & Renner Training & Consultancy Services, is part of activities towards

getting the authority certified and compliant to the ISO Standards specifically in the Harbour system. The NPA boss enjoined all the workers to be committed to the total success of the project, to enable the ports contribute positively to the nation’s economy, and further attain relevance

amongst other ports in the International Maritime terrain especially in the sub-region. While impressing it on the consultants to be “open and frank� in the conduct of the project, she stressed the need for them to address all the issues involved, adding that the Management would be guided by the outcome

of the workshop in its ISO compliance and certification drive. On the implementation and sustenance of the ISO project, she explained that the management would strictly adhere to the timeline and effective tracking, to ensure that all aspects of the project are adequately

covered. Giving an insight into the content of the workshop, the Project Manager, Ibby Iyama, said there is an urgent need for change in the way things are done within the Harbour Services of the Authority, with a view to improving the efforts to attain the ISO certification.

NIMASA to Enforce 0.5% Sulphur Limit on Bunker Fuel The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Dr. Dakuku Peterside has stated that the agency will enforce strict compliance to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) regulation which puts a maximum of 0.5 per cent sulphur cap on all fuel used by vessels by the year 2020. Peterside made this known during an interactive session with journalists at the just concluded maritime week in Dubai, said that part of the requirements adopted at the 73rd meeting of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) of the United Nations (UN) maritime organ was to reduce the sulphur content permitted in Ships’ fuel oil globally to 0.5 per cent with effect from 1st January 2020. According to him “the 2020 fuel challenge is geared towards energy efficiency, environmental pollution control, health as well as core regulatory enforcement issues. As a maritime nation, we cannot afford not to comply with the IMO standard which will also do a lot in mitigating global warming and other related environmental issues.� Speaking further, the NIMASA DG said that the IMO ban, which relates to fuel intended for combustion, propulsion and operation purposes on board ships will enter into force on March 1, 2020, adding that all

member states are expected to comply with the stated standards by this date. He said it was in the best interest of Africa to ensure compliance considering the fact that majority of the countries on the continent do not have the technology to mitigate harmful effects of high sulphur fuel on the environment, ocean life and human life . The NIMASA boss enumerated some of the steps the agency plans to take to manage the transition and ensure compliance. He noted that NIMASA will embark on massive enlightenment, stakeholders’ engagement and liaison as well as collaboration with fuel refiners and suppliers. He also said that the Agency would have a schedule for Pre- enforcement information before the commencement of the proper enforcement. Commenting on the best way to enforce compliance, Peterside said that ship owners, classification societies, NGOs, fuel storage facilities, and other stakeholders will all play a part in determining modalities of ensuring compliance . The regulation 14.1.3 of Annex VI of the Convention seeks to control airborne emissions of compounds such as sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides and other ozone depleting substances arising from shipping activities in order to mitigate its effects on health and the environment.

AEDC Reads Riot Act to Vandals Amaka Mozie in Abuja In a bid to prioritise constant power supply within its franchise distribution areas the Abuja electricity distribution company (Disco) has said that vandalism as well as theft of electricity will now attract heavy sanctions. The Disco in a statement quoted its Managing Director, Mr. Ernest Mupwaya, to have cautioned customers against electricity theft and vandalism. It stated that the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court, Justice Ishaq Bello, has designated two High Court judges and five Magistrate Court judges to now handle electricity related matters. The statement was signed by the Disco’s General Manager, Corporate Communications, Mr. Oyebode Fadipe, and Mupwaya. It explained that the designa-

tion of judges to handle electricity related matters was in order to speed up the process of dispensation of justice in this regards. According to Mupwaya, erring customers would in this regards face huge consequences, including jail terms, fines, among other forms of punishment. “With this development, it is important for us to advice our customers to desist from committing any act that will make them fall on the wrong side of the law. In the past, people believe that they can always get away with whatever they do because the process of justice dispensation was slow,� said Mupwaya. Mupwaya, equally lamented that the Disco’s huge loss of resources to vandalism has resulted in hours or even days of power outages within affected community.

BUSINESS EXPANSION

L-R: Chief Marketing Officer, Renmoney, Apekhade Idogho; founder, Zinox Computers, Leo Stan Ekeh; founder, Renmoney, Stephen Jennings; CEO, Renmoney, Oluwatobi Boshoro and Executive Chairman, Renmoney, Kieran Donnelly at the inauguration of the new Renmoney’s corporate headquarters in Lagos‌recently

‘Consumer Confidence Gradually Returning to Nigerian Economy’ Following Nigeria’s exit from economic recession that enveloped the country’s economy in 2016 and part of 2017, which slowed consumer purchasing power, confidence is gradually returning to the economy, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hubmart Stores Limited, Murat Bektaslar has said. Bektaslar, who made the remark during the awoof Promo draw organsied by Hubmart to appreciate its customers in Lagos, said retail business has huge potential in Nigeria. According to him, the promo is the company’s small way to thank its teaming customers who have followed in the journey. Winners emerged in the different categories of the draw from

the Lekki, Victoria Island and Ikeja Stores outlets, taking away shopping vouchers amounting to over N3.5 million for the first months draw. He said the company will be opening a new outlet in Omole Estate in Ikeja by next month, while another four outlets will be opened next year. He said: “We have come a long way from one outlet in Victoria Island to three outlets which will soon become four – with Omole coming on stream this quarter. We take pride in our capabilities in fresh and our acceptance by our teeming customers is testament to the good work we have done. The Hubmart Awoof Promotion is a small way of telling our

customers, thank you.� “We have come a long way from one outlet in Victoria Island to three outlets which will soon become four – with Omole coming on stream this quarter. We take pride in our capabilities in fresh and our acceptance by our teeming customers is testament to the good work we have done. The Hubmart Awoof Promotion is a small way of telling our customers, thank you�. Onyeka Onwenu, Nigeria’ music legend who conducted the promotional draw, said she identified in Hubmart in the exercise because as a household manager being a woman she appreciates the importance of shopping for the home and shopping quality.

According to her, the company is adding value to the Nigerian economy and creating employment opportunities for many Nigerians. Vice President, Marketing of the company, Cheng Fuller, said: “It is our tradition of delighting our customers, urging them to shop from Hubmart as the more purchases a customer made, the more the customer’s chances of winning were increased.� Hubmart Stores had sometime this year inaugurated its newest shop on admiralty way Lekki as an addition to its already existing stores in Isaac John Ikeja, and Adeola Odeku, Victoria, bringing total number of stores in the country to three.

AfDB, Others Launch De-risking Instrument The African Development Bank alongside Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC), African Trade Insurance Agency (ATI) and the GuarantCo, have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for a co-guarantee platform (CGP). This initiative, the first of its kind and being promoted by the Bank, was signed on the first day of the Bank’s inaugural Africa Investment Forum in Johannesburg. The Bank and its partners created the platform for Africa, an innovative and collective de-risking instrument, to address the perceived high risk across the continent and the lack of capacity of traditional lenders to provide risk mitigation products for projects.

The platform is intended to increase the volume of insurance and guarantee solutions available to project sponsors and their bankers in a market-responsible manner. The objective is to mobilise greater amounts of investment that would otherwise not take place in the region in the absence of affordable risk mitigation products. The platform is expected to enhance the relevance of the respective institutions’ instruments in the region by implementing joint risk mitigation transactions. Speaking about the Bank’s rationale for the platform, the President of the AfDB Group, Akinwunmi Adesina said: “There are many guarantee providers that can offer various types of credit enhancement and risk mitigation instruments

in Africa, but cooperation among them has been either non-existent or on an ad hoc basis. “Hence the need for a more formal collaboration among guarantee providers to maximise the use of their products in Africa.� These four initial partners were financial institutions with strong experience operating on the continent, keen to participate in order to cooperate and create synergies with other development and commercial institutions in an effective and market-responsive manner. According to the AfDB boss, the platform is open to more participants including official development institutions and the private sector. The initiative was expected to

have a global outreach and aimed at crowding in reluctant risk mitigation and credit enhancement providers across the world to make more projects happen in Africa- on more affordable terms for both African and foreign investors and lenders alike. Commenting on the initiative, the President of the Islamic Development Bank Group and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment & Export Credit (ICIEC), Dr. Bandar Hajjar, noted that the ICIEC, as a multilateral institution has a strong footprint in Africa with 23 member countries from within the continent and has been actively mobilising insurance and reinsurance capacity from the international market for Africa for the last 25 years.

THIS WEEKEND WEEKLY MAGAZINE

NEWS METRO THISLIFE ART WEEKEND ENTERTAINMENT Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com 08152252325

Patrick Agbambu:

The African Security Torch Bearer

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COVER

PATRICK AGBAMBU: THE AFRICAN SECURITY TORCH BEARER For President/CEO, Security Watch Africa Initiatives, Mr. Patrick Agbambu, his passion has always been to ensure a safe and secure Africa.Through his organisation, he has for 15 consecutive years carried the gospel of security beyond Nigeria to other African nations and even the United States of America and the United Arab Emirates. In this interview with Chiemelie Ezeobi, he talks about his expectation for the forthcoming prestigious Security Watch Africa Awards coming up on November 11 to 13 in The Gambia, and other sundry issues. Excerpts: What drives you in pushing security issues in Africa and even beyond? It is a truism that no meaningful development can take place without security. Security is paramount in any endeavour. As we strive for the development of our continent, Africa, the first thing we must get right is security. That is why I believe and work for security, peace and safety of the people in Africa. How many years have you championed this cause? The idea to champion the cause of security and safety began in 1996. By 1997, we started a television programme on the first truly private and independent television station in Nigeria, Africa Independent Television (AIT). Since then, the programme has remained on air. It is significate to note that some African countries appreciated what we were doing and requested that we spread to other countries in Africa and in 2009 after the INTERPOL Conference in Accra, Ghana, the idea truly went continental. How many countries have you taken the award to and why? As a way to improve and encourage efficiency and effectiveness in the security system, we introduced the annual Awards and Conference series in 2004. The event has been hosted severally in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, The Gambia, United Arab Emirates and United States of America. What is the theme for this year’s award? This year’s event is the 15th edition with the theme; Effective Leadership and Good Governance: Panacea To Extremism and Insecurity in Africa. Our partners, from Stellenbosch University, South Africa are facilitating the Conference. Lead Speakers are Prof. Jacob Mofokeng, Head of Department, Safety and Security Management at the Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa and Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army. What are the expectations? Various speakers from across the academia, governments, leadership, public and private security practitioners, safety professionals and the media will converge to deliberate, share ideas and experiences and proffer actionable solutions to the myriad of security challenges confronting the continent. Of particular importance is the rising insecurity emanating from extremism, which has led to terrorists and insurgents deadly attacks. We hope that the report from the conference will aid governments and the society to effectively overcome the disturbing reports of killings all over the African continent. Who are the award recipients? For the 15th Awards recipients, the International Awards Panel of Judges headed by Prof. Henri’ Fouche of Stellenbosch University, South Africa has thoroughly done their work to come out with winners. Some of this year’s winners include; President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria; President Adama Barrow of The Gambia; Dr. Felix Anyah from Ghana; Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff; IGP Ibrahim Idris; Accra Metropolitan Assembly; Chief Willie Obiano; Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Governors of Anambra, Kebbi and Enugu States, respectively. Others are Hon. Fikile Mbalula, former Minister of Police Affairs,

Agbambu

South Africa; HRH Appolus Chu of Eleme Kingdom; Chief Gomba Okanje; Dr. Michael Addo from Ghana; Guaranty Trust Bank in The Gambia; GACEM Cement Company, The Gambia; CP Imohimi Edgal, CP Danmallam Mohammed, CP Zaki Ahmed, CP Ahmed Iliyasu and CP Garba Umar, Commissioners of Police of Lagos, Enugu, Rivers, Ogun and Anambra States, respectively, and DCP Abba Kyari of IGP

Security is paramount in any endeavour. As we strive for the development of our continent, Africa, the ďŹ rst thing we must get right is security. That is why I believe and work for security, peace and safety of the people in Africa

Intelligence Response Team. The high point of the award this year will be the award lecture, which will be delivered by Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu of Abia State on Tackling National Security Challenges Through Economic Empowerment: The Made-in-Aba Experience. What qualiďŹ es one to be an award recipient of the prestigious Security Watch Africa Awards? Winners of Africa Security Watch Awards over the years are those who have dedicated the time, intellects, resources and energy to ensure that Africans and Africa is safe and secured, in spite of the inadequate resources and tools. Any partnership with government and private institutions? We have been able to gain the confidence of some governments and institutions across the globe who believes in the ideals of what we represent. Of particular reference are Nigerian, South African, Ghanaian, Liberian, The Gambian governments have all supported and encouraged us. I won’t forget the immense support by the Mayor of the City of Houston in Texas, USA.

You recently signed an MOU with Stellenbosch University in South Africa, what was it all about? Our solid partners in this enormous journey of making Africa a better place have remained DAAR Communications Ltd in Nigeria and Stellenbosch University, South Africa. Recently, we signed a workable MOU with Stellenbosch University to training and educate Security personnel in areas of Leadership and Governance. This year’s conference is in furtherance of that partnership. What are the major challenges you have battled in the course of your journey in promoting security through the awards? Like in every endeavor in life, there are challenges. Though, it has been very tough because we, Africans don’t believe in security and value to life until it challenged or threatened then we will begin to run helter-scatter. We don’t invest in security and that explains why the continent still called under-developed. But we are encouraged to continue pushing and pressing till the undebatable importance of security spreads and permeate the African continent.

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NEWS

The Chronicles, a Historical Movie on Mbaise, Makes Debut at the Cinemas Mary Nnah Frank Ufomadu, through his new movie, The Chronicles, is digging deep into history of the Mbaise people, particularly as it has to do with the popular adage, “when you see a snake and an Mbaise man, spare the snake and kill the Mbaise man�, which emanated from a 1970’s band group, The Oriental Brothers. However, many are unaware of what transpired among the band members that led to the coining of the misleading adage, and that is what the producer Ufomadu is out to reveal in his movie The Chronicles. The Chronicles, a direct response to the popular adage that had for a long time caused damage on the image of the Mbaise man, particularly revolves around two teenagers who are constantly taunted for coming from Mbaise, Imo State, and seek to understand why their ancestry is being laughed at. At their insistence, their parents take them to their grandmother (Onyeka Onwenu) who spends the night telling them the long historic story, which is chronicled in the movie, which would start showing from Friday, November 9 at cinemas nationwide. Starring in the movie are Onyeka Onwenu, Segun Arinze, Victor Osuagwu, Daniel Llyod,Giovanni Grossman (Italian) Avinanash Bhavanni (British/Indian) Agbogidi Clemson, Felix Omorkhodion, Okey Jude, Zikky Alloy among others. Directed by Caliph Ibn. Uzar, The Chronicles will reveal how the saying ‘Spare the snake and kill the man’ came about during the pre and post-colonial eras in the eastern part of the country, and how a particular musical band falsified the belief to include the Mbaise man. “Most people don’t know

Amanpour

Governor Amosun Set to Host CNN’s Amanpour in Abeokuta Adedayo Adejobi

The Chronicles producer, Ufomadu

about the genesis of that adage and how it came about. So if you really want to know who actually made that comment that had gone viral up till today and why, then watch The Chronicles. “You would know the truth and you would find out that actually it has been a misinterpretation of events and facts�, Ufomadu said during a media preview of the movie in Lagos recently. Speaking further, he said, “Like every other blackmail, that saying has taken a toll on the Mbaise people generally but with time a Mbaise man being a strong person, we have been able to survive the taunts all this. “I believe strongly that the movie, The Chronicles, will actually go a long way in correcting that bad impression created about the Mbaise

man.� Speaking on what particularly informed his decision to make a historical movie Ufomadu said, “The Chronicles as the name implies, is a deep historic event and a detailed analysis of what happened in the past. It is more like a docudrama. “I wrote the story and then produced it. So, it is my brainchild. I set out to write the story because I found out that most of what we have in our industry are kind of westernised. “Nobody cares to talk about historic events, the history of our forefathers and our history. You find out that in our schools today, it’s like history has been expunged from the subjects being taught at the secondary schools. “So, I felt that our present generation need to know and

be educated about our history. So, it is wise we change the dimension of stories we tell in Nollywood and start telling stories that can be documented, because it is best when we tell our stories ourselves. When outsiders tell our stories, they tend to doctor it in order to favour them. “The Chronicles is actually a true-life event that happened right from the very first interaction that Africans had with the Europeans when they came into Nigeria through Calabar and Opobo till the 70s and even present day, most especially when we had the advent of the high life music. “The story expands through three generations – pre-colonial, colonial and post-colonial - 21st century periods, so it is quite a very long and wide covered story. It is a history book, so to say.�

Kanekalon Offers Free Hair Service at LagosTrade Fair Mary Nnah It was quite an exciting moment at the “Made in Japan, Made for Women� corner of the Japanese Pavilion erected by the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), at the venue of the ongoing Lagos International Trade Fair holding at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos,m. One of the exhibitors decided to buzz customers by offering free hair services to women who patronised exhibitors at the tent. At the trade fair, free hair services ranging from free braid to free natural scalp refresher were offered to consumers. The free services will continue till Sunday, November 11 when the trade fair ends. The company in question, Kaneka Corporation, makers of Kanekalon, a synthetic fibre made in Japan and used for making hair attachments and wigs had numerous hair stylists on ground to attend to as many women who had a few minutes to spare. Numerous women were seen sitting while their hairs were being braided with various brands of hair extension made from Kanekalon. Kanekalon Fibre is currently the most widely used in the manufacturing of hair extensions and wigs around the world.

L-r: Trade commisioner/MD, JETRO Lagos, Shigeyo Nishizawa; Chinenye Nwokoro of Friscontech Limited and Director DMM. Africa, Mizuho Taniguchi at the Lagos International Trade Fair 2018 This zone was purposely set up by JETRO as a special zone at the Japan Pavilion featuring a collection of products and services created by Japanese companies for women in Nigeria. Indeed, looking good is a good business, as a result, brands like X-pression and Darling hair products are on ground to make quick sales too while the “Made in Japan, Made for Women� zone will continue to pile up Japanese products and services to enrich women’s lives with more fashionable and convenient items as the trade fair lasts. The General Manager of

Kaneka Corporation Africa (Ghana), Mr. Hiroshi Seko, said his company was very excited to be part of the participants exhibiting at the Lagos International Trade Fair 2018. He said: “There are varieties of fibres for making hair products, some of them are very dangerous as they are highly inflammable and women who cook with such hair are at risk of getting hurt because such hair catches fire easily and then drips on the victim’s body, which may cause serious damage on the skin while some other get shambled easily. “But the kanekalon fibre is non-flammable. Our philosophy is to contribute to the society by

offering beauty and safety to women, to this end; we want to keep supplying a trustable quality Kanekalon hair products to our numerous customer. “Also, we are using this opportunity to educate the African women on how to differentiate between genuine kanekalon hair products and the fake ones, to prevent them from wasting their money on fake and dangerous products by getting our stylists to share their experiences with customers, educate them on trustable brands as they offered them free services.� Since 2014, JETRO has been organising Japan Pavilion at Lagos International Trade

After the Africa Drum Festival, Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State is set to light up the journalism firmament of Nigeria with a historic celebration of the origins of Journalism in Nigeria come 2019. Meanwhile, CNN’s Television global star, Christiane Amanpour, will add glitz and glamour when celebrities around the world gather at Abeokuta, Ogun State to mark and celebrate the birthday and 160 years of Journalism in Nigeria in March 2019. It promises to be nostalgic when Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital, goes agog in hosting an assemblage of media gurus to celebrate Reverend Henry Townsend, the founder of journalism in Nigeria. It has been a tedious and tortuous journey for the Nigerian League of Veteran Journalists under the able leadership of Eddie Aderinokun, who had worked in tandem with his colleagues to give back to the man who introduced Journalism to Nigeria by publishing the first tabloid – “IWE IROHIN FUN AWON ARA EGBA� on November 23, 1859. The 60-year-old Christiane Amanpour, born of British mother and an Iranian father began her journalism career in 1986 with BCC’s Radio Four as a summer intern and later CNN and CBS, two of the most popular stations in the world, becoming the world’s best-paid correspondent. Her rise to stardom was a typical case of from rags to riches. After finishing her education at an exclusive Catholic boarding school in England, Amanpour had hoped to get into medical school, but did too poorly in her A-level examinations. She opted for a sales clerk job in a department store, and then as a cleaner in a pub. Her entry into journalism was by accident. One of her three sisters enrolled in a journalism institute in London but withdrew before the term was over. Amanpour went to get a refund for her, but was refused, she said, “Could I take my sister’s place instead,� and her request was granted. Arguably the hottest in television news today, Amanpour, had risen to become the First Lady of global television since 1986.

Ă•Ă“Ă˜ĂœĂ™ĂĄĂ™ ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ă? ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă’ Ă“ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ ÞÙ ÙÖÖãåÙÙÎ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă‹Ă‘Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă•Ă? Sunday Okobi Determined to promote positive narratives about Nigeria and Nigerians, producers of the new Nollywood action movie project Caged In The Creeks, Leke Akinrowo and Elvina Ibru, have expressed commitment to use the coming movie to change certain impressions held about Nigeria. Caged In The Creeks, anticipated as Nigeria’s first action flick will be directed by Terry McMahon, multiple award-winning Irish Movie Director of Patrick’s Day and Charlie Casanova. McMahon renowned for hit movies like Batman Begin and Charlie Casanova among others, is expected to bring his international artistic film production experience to Nollywood in this African action thriller. Speaking to journalists at a meet and greet session in Lagos recently, McMahon said he is excited to be part of the movie that would help Nollywood to rewrite Nigeria‘s story. He said: “Well, it is about perception. But I think it is a history that I want to be part of the Nollywood history. And my coming into Nigeria is to bring the Western character into Nollywood. “I have got to bring in quality into Caged in the Creeks, to meet the industry’s expectations. We are about to create a revolution in Africa’s movie industry with this project in ways never achieved before in this part of the world.â€? The writer and producer, Akinrowo, said the movie captures his working life experience in the Niger Delta, after he was transferred in 2009 to Port Harcourt. According to him, “there have been misconceptions about Niger Delta. When I got to Portharcourt I met people like me who were living their lives despite the horror stories we heard in Lagos. “More importantly, I have had this vision of doing something really ambitious in Nollywood. Maybe not in terms of money, but something that has real depth, which is one of the major problems our stories tend to have.â€?

McMahon, Leke & Hafeez

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XTRA

Repositioning Women to Break Boundaries Mary Nnah Gone are the days when they say a woman’s world is limited to the kitchen as today’s women are doing more than just being reflections of their husbands; they are carving a path for themselves. As the world progresses and women achieve more freedom, they are discovering that they are more than society had previously defined them. To break boundaries, women must realise their potentials and maximise them and with education, determination and selfdiscovery, women are more empowered and can create immense impact in the society. Intellectual, spiritual, and physical development are as important for women as they are for men today. The church already provides an opportunity for the spiritual development and self-discovery of women. Some even go beyond this to provide opportunities for women to enhance their capacity and actualise their dreams. One of such is The Elevation Church, a Lagos-based nondenominational Christian organisation that recently hosted a conference for women called ‘Made for More’. The Made for More Women’s Conference is a two-day annual event, which is aimed at empowering women. The event holds every October at Pistis Conference Centre of The Elevation Church and is targeted at every woman, irrespective of status and age, within and outside the church. Speaking on the rationale behind the event, co-lead pastor of the Elevation Church and convener, Bolarinwa Akinlabi, said the Made for More conference is an avenue to speak directly to the sense of worth in a woman and to let her know that she is made for much more than the media and society seem to suggest. “The average young woman, before reaching the age of 20, has received so many stereotypical definitions from the family unit, extended family, billboards, magazines, etc. “If you open the pages of a typical magazine, without even seeing a word, there are expectations being pushed out on the average young woman such that she thinks her worth and value is about

Guest speaker, Adenowo addressing participants at the Made for More Women conference the outward appearance. “We have to speak directly to that sense of worth in a woman to let her know that she is made for much more than the pages of the newspaper seem to suggest. “If you look at the billboards on the street, they suggest that women are made for a certain thing. But God has given us the instruction to speak specific words of worth into the woman. Her worth is made up of so much more than the physical attributes that define her.� The conference started in 2016 with Pastor Nike Adeyemi of Daystar Christian Centre as the first guest speaker. Since then, there have been testimonials by women who have been inspired by the event to develop an idea and start something. According to Akinlabi, one woman recently told her that she had always had an idea to start a new business and she was inspired by the first Made for More conference. She launched out her business and has been growing in leaps and bounds over the years. The second Made for More Women’s conference was in 2017 and it featured Pastor Mrs Funke Felix-Adejumo, a renowned speaker and philanthropist who is the cofounder of Agape Christian Ministries. Adejumo had revealed secrets of a godly woman’s growth and success using biblical principles. At the conference, a thousand women were in attendance to worship, discuss crucial issues, pray and get empowered. Over a hundred women-led and owned businesses and brands were on exhibition for Women in Business sections. Women also displayed their products, brands and cultivated business relationships. The third Made for More

Conference was held at The Elevation Church’s Pistis Conference Centre on October 19 to 20, 2018, with the theme, “Girl on Fire�. Introducing the theme, Akinlabi said in a video broadcast: “A girl on fire is energised, a girl of fire has passion; she is not afraid to use her voice. She is not afraid to defend the people who cannot defend themselves, a girl on fire has a song to sing and it’s a song her world is waiting to hear her sing.� For two days, Akinlabi and over a thousand other women shared experiences, networked, and encouraged one another to be better in various aspects of their lives. Akinlabi further encouraged women to recognise God’s gift in their lives no matter how insignificant it seems. “Have you recognised what you have in your house, no matter how insignificant? Like the woman with the little oil, recognise your gift and you will experience miracles,� she charged the audience in one of her ministrations. The programme featured Jumoke Adenowo, a renowned Architect, interior designer and founder of AD Consulting as the guest speaker. Adenowo challenged the passion and drive of women, inspiring them to discover themselves and break beyond the limits that confine them. According to her, a man sees a woman as mere seed, but God sees a forest. She said: “To maximise their inner potentials, women have to submit to God. Obedience is doing what you have been told to do, submission is deliberately putting down what you have.� There was a “Real Talk� panel session, which focussed on how women can have it all. The panellists included business owners, specialists and professionals like Mercy Makinde (Women and Girl Child Advocate); Foluso

Gbadamosi (Technology Advocate); Ivie Ogbonwam (HR professional); Simisola Ajasa (Health specialist), and Joy Isa (seasoned teacher). On the second day, there was a ‘Women in Worship’ session that featured popular gospel artists including Sola Allyson, Lily Perez, Ccioma and Ella Vibes. These music ministers led the women in unrestrained and pure worship. Speaking about the worship session, Akinlabi said; “As women, there are some issues we cannot look to people to solve for us, God has to be the answer. We had a wonderful worship session where we just created an atmosphere for the woman to receive the healing and reinforcement and strength that she can only get from her maker.� One of the vital components of the event is the business exhibition/fair, a place where women entrepreneurs come together and network. The “Women in Business� exhibition held on day two of the conference, October 20, 2018. The aim of the exhibition was to create awareness for women-led ventures to share business ideas, experiences and merchandise and network. The side attractions included childcare, and a parental clinic. At the parental clinic, which held on the last day of event, mothers sat with physiotherapists, educators, counsellors, certified autism specialists and childhood neurodevelopmental assessors. The parenting clinic was created for women dealing with some challenging issues in their families. There were also experts in the child psychology business; seasoned teachers and educators who also brought women who are parents together to give them real tools to help them deal with troublesome relationships with their children.

Siju Iluyomade calls on Women to Arise Now Etop Ukutt Pastor Siju Iluyomade has said that the need to arise now is evident in the 100 million Nigerians who currently live below poverty level. She noted that they account for over 61 per cent of the population represented by the countless numbers of women who are unemployed, have no access to healthcare, and the girl child who is denied basic education. Speaking recently during the 10th edition of the annual Arise Women Conference, she stressed that millions of women everywhere are not

Pterpan Unveils New Album, ‘Owu-Ite-Love’

economically empowered to provide basic needs for themselves, their family or be responsible citizens of the nation. She said: “According to UNICEF, Nigeria has 10.5 million out of school children, about 60 per cent of this number are girls. “There is a groaning of those in dire need. Their cry is for a provider, it is a cry for help. The sightings of the oppressed are for nothing else but for a deliverer. Many are desperately in need of someone to just stretch forth a helping hand. “Today we charge ourselves as women with

one voice, vision and purpose to arise now on behalf of another woman today. We have a higher calling, we cannot continue to ignore the gaping needs that stare us in the face. “We are all in a better position to help and confront challenges when we arise and act now. God is counting on us to work with Him. God himself heard the oppression of his people as said in Psalm 12:5.� She explained further that the scriptures give a clear picture of the areas of need eg. hunger, homelessness and nakedness. “We need to arise now

to provide affordable healthcare, education, housing, jobs, eradicate hunger and poverty, remove oppression and injustice from our society. We all singularly and collectively have a part to play�, she noted. Arise Women is a faithbased non-governmental organisation committed to accelerating nation building through the empowerment of women in the society and has impacted, inspired and encouraged over 15,000 women to achieve their God-given potentials, by the words and teachings of carefully chosen and proven speakers.

Pterpan

Music is about to be redefined as Pterpan Tribes of Unity makes a bold statement with his new album, ‘Owu-Ite-Love’, an eight-tracker that has got the music industry talking in recent times. With tracks like ‘Why I love U’, ‘Kwakiri-NaDance’, ‘Owu-Ite-love’, ‘Nwa Aba’, ‘Knack-Dbeat’, ‘Koro Ama’, ‘Kpomo Obe’ and ‘Sister Ekaete’, the songs reflect Pterpan’s deep knowledge of his neighbourhood, which avails the inspiration that drives his creativity. Also in the cards are songs like: ‘Righteous One’, ‘Christmas in

Lasgidi’ and ‘Christmas Conto’ slated for release in November. The new album is coming on the heels of previous singles like ‘Gimi Dis Gimi Dat’ (which featured i-Mike from MTN Project Fame), ‘Maka Lovin U’ and ‘Swagger’. Born Nnochiri Peter Nnochiri by parents from Uzuakoli in Abia State, he started doing music professionally in 2015 following an overwhelming endorsement of his performance at a karaoke show in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

EdoGovtUnveilsOsosoCulturalCarnivalLogo Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

In its quest to promote the rich cultural heritage of the state, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, has unveiled the Ososo Cultural Carnival Logo. Unveiling the logo in Benin City, Obaseki said one of the thematic points of his administration is the promotion of arts and culture because of its added value to the economy. Obaseki who was represented by the state Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora Affairs, said arts and culture has remained a strong point of the state, being a home of culture. According to him, “our culture is our heritage, integrity and everything about us. One of the focal points of this government is the promotion of arts, culture and tourism because of its added value to the economy of the state.� The governor added that Edo State is second to none in terms of culture, just as he stated that what the state has and what it neglected in the past are enormous. Earlier in his welcome address, President, Ososo Carnival Initiative, Mr. Moses Teo Ajayi, commended the state government for investing

so much in arts, culture and tourism sector. He said the huge investment in the sector will foster rapid economic development in the state, adding that the government’s unwavering commitment and determination to unlock the investment potentials of the sector has recorded a huge success, which the Ososo Carnival is a part of. “Permit me to place on record our deep gratitude and sincere thanks to Governor Godwin Obaseki for his unwavering commitment and determination to unlock the investment potentials of the arts, culture and tourism sector in Edo State. “Ososo Carnival is a beneficiary of this policy thrust of his administration.� Speaking on this year’s theme: “Ososo Carnival: Celebrating Unity for Community Development�, he said it underscored the potentials of peace and unity in promoting opportunities for sustainable community development. Ajayi said the theme was ideally timed to focus attention on the need for communities around the world, especially tourist destinations to promote the culture of unity and peace in order to allow domestic tourism to thrive.

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ART WEEKEND

‌For pure art enthusiasts

ExploringOsofisan’sSuchisLifeTheatricalPerformance Yinka Olatunbosun reviews the recent theatre production of Femi Osofisan’s‘Such is Life’for the 2018 edition of the Chevron Festival Drama at the Agip Recital Hall, MUSON Centre, Lagos

O

riginally known as Midnight Black Out, Femi Osofisan’s Such is Life was the muchneeded comic relief to the week-long MUSON Festival in Lagos. Called Chevron Festival Drama, the drama is built on the conflict between good and evil. However, the comedy itself arises from the unusual plot twist, wellpaced dialogue and dramatic irony. Directed by Kenneth Uphopho, Such is Life tells the story of a Professor of Medicine, Prof. Juokwu (Patrick Diabuah) and his wife, Obioma (Gloria Anozie-Young), who is living with the bitter memories of her late husband. Strangely enough, the portrait of the late husband still hangs on Prof’s wall on his wife’s insistence to serve as a reminder of who he should never be. Unknown to Obioma, Prof Juokwu is having an affair with a married woman. He hypnotises his wife, causing her to black out on his episodes of escapades. A friend to Obioma’s late husband, Iberibe (Friday Francis) secretly desires her and heads to Nigeria from Rio to woo her. It was too late a plan as Obioma has remarried. He discovers Prof Juokwu’s secret love affair and black out tricks and surreptitiously reveals these to Obioma. Meanwhile, Akubundu (Kanayo Okani Larry) the husband to Prof Juokwu’s lover, storms his house during one of Obioma’s black out afternoons. His anger is quickly dissipated on the promise of Prof’s vote in the forthcoming elections. Akubundu typifies a materialistic character, willing to cover-up his wife’s infidelity to protect his political ambition. Not just that, Akubundu represents an existential persona, desperate to market his services,

A scene from the play even to his wife’s lover. The web of suspicion and infidelity thickens as Prof. Juokwu makes a discovery that suppresses his wife’s voice in demanding for fair treatment in their marriage. As with one-act plays, the use of a simple set, costumes andlights made the scene transition fluid. Most of Osofisan’s plays are heavy on musical content, which are message-laden. But the music that accompanied Such is Life in performance didn’t seem to add any

contextual value to the play. For the director, Uphopho, the play is a subtle political satire that appropriates domestic issues such as marital infidelity, moral decadence and mutual suspicion within a couple. For the critical audience, in terms of interpretation, this play is a waltz of sorts for the director who had directed same in 2012 and in 2018 and executed the production with experienced actors as cast.

How LIPFEST 2018 Kept Lagos ‘Wide Awake’

Ă&#x;Ăœ Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă˜Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ă’Ă“ĂžĂ? Ă?ĂœĂœĂ‹ Ă&#x;Ă–ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ? Yinka Olatunbosun

It is a season of political plays as BEETA Universal Arts Foundation (BUAF) presents the second production of the stage play Our Son the Minister, written by Paul Ugbede and directed by Kenneth Uphopho. The play, produced by award-winning actress and talented thespian, Bikiya Graham-Douglas, is scheduled to hold from November 9 to 11, 2018 with two shows per day. Our Son the Minister is the winning play of the first edition of Beeta Playwright Competition 2017, which kept its promise in publishing and producing the play. Designed to promote the arts, particularly playwriting, BUAF will happily share the play with the general public through its second performance. Our Son the Minister is a biting political satire. It is set on an inauguration day with Dr. Makoji preparing to be sworn in. Family and friends make frantic plans on how to share the national cake that he is expected to bring home. Alarmed by their plans, an austere Makoji decides to turn down the ministerial appointment. They conclude he has gone mad and seek desperate solutions to cure him. This play is hilarious yet thought-provoking. It stars talented actors such as Patrick Diabuah, Inna Erizia, Chris Iheuwa, Soibifaa Dokubo, Bola Stephen, Biodun Kassim, BunmiSogade, Omololu Sodiya, and Dapo Gbadamosi. The play is family-friendly, a timely theatre piece that matches the election season mood in Nigeria. The performance will be on tour in five universities across the country to deepen its theme of value re-orientation among youths. The show is sponsored by MTN, Union Bank, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), and supported by Terra Kulture, Oyewole&Olajide LLP, Amstel Malta, AfricaMagic, amongst others.

Ă? Ă–Ă‹ĂŁ Ù×Ă?Ă? Ă–Ă“Ă Ă? ÞÒÓĂ? Ùà Ă?Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ

Patrick Olowokere, Corporate Communications/Brand Public Relations Manager; Grace Udensi, Public Affairs Manager, Lagos, both of Nigerian Breweries Plc; LIPFEST Founder, Efe Paul Azino and Technical Director, Adesola Fakile Yinka Olatunbosun

QDance Centre’s rousing performance of “Yuropa� left a blazing trail of anticipation on the opening night of the just-concluded 2018 Lagos International Poetry Festival (LIPFEST), which is in its fourth season. Sponsored by Nigerian Breweries, the poetry festival which held at Freedom Park, Lagos, has the reputation of not just being a season of entertainment, but a platform for socially and politically engaging conversations. After the mystic dance with its underlying theme of migration by the dance group, the Festival Director and performance poet, Efe Paul Azino, gave an appetising performance to welcome the lovers of poetry and afterwards, spoke on the new frontier that poetry is pushing in Nigeria and globally. “The value of art is not so obvious to Nigeria. Sponsoring arts and culture is considered as corporate social responsibility (CSR). It’s important to invest in culture not just as CSR but to empower

people economically,� he said in his opening remarks. A short preview of a recent commercial bank’s TVC featured the poet, Chika Jones who later gave a thought-provoking performance with the title, “Are We Really Going to Sleep?� that referenced rape, rights of women as well as the culture of silence through coherent lines that amplified reason over rhymes. Another performance poet, Abiodun Tony, gave a vehement delivery that took a swipe at the state of the nation and its agonising degree of poverty. The guest poet from South Africa, Lebo Mashile, displayed an unparalleled sense of professionalism when she withdrew her microphone to avoid saying aloud something vulgar or simply rendering them in her indigenous language. Another international act, Jabir Malick, from Senegal performed in French and later in English, while Julian Heun from Germany offered no apologies for performing in German. His repetition of “Lasma� in his inspirational poetry resonated with the

audience who easily registered the sound as “LASTMA�. The Managing Director and CEO, Nigerians Breweries, Jordi Borrut Bel, who was represented by the Public Relations Manager, Patrick Olowokere, emphasised the commitment of his organisation to the development of art in Nigeria and the role of poetry in our collective humanity. “With the Lagos International Poetry Festival�, we project the role of poetry as a tool for the reengineering of society towards the objective of achieving progress for our nation. Poetry does not only interpret society or serve as its mirror, it also helps us to imagine better ways of being and living. “This year’s edition, Wide Awake examines the rousing wave of discontenting voices that tip political and social power structures from the global North to the South and reinvigorateconversations on accountability, transparency and social justice, making it particularly vital for us all to stay alive to these salient issues of our time,� he said.

The political game is on in the theatre as Nwando Alayande directs the play, The CONFAB. It is a satire about Nigeria, laced with comedy beneath its witty dialogue. The story tells of delegates from the various geo-political zones of the country who gather at the CONFAB, with the sole aim of sharing the “National Cake�. With a 17-man cast, the CONFAB is scheduled to have two shows for each production day namely Saturday, November 17 and Sunday, November 18. Produced by Mabykay Productions, the CONFAB is a bold attempt to examine governance and polity. Speaking on the rationale behind the production, Nwando Alayande, reiterated her commitment to using the art to procure lasting change in governance. “The general attitude of Nigerians towards issues that affect our collective life is deeply worrisome. I was concerned about voter apathy, and the fact that people are not being held accountable. “I am concerned about our leave-everything-to- God syndrome. I find it really funny that we like to compare ourselves with developed nations or nations that are getting things right, but we don’t want to apply the same principles in action.

A scene from the play

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FERTILITY

with DR. KEMI AILOJE Info@lifelinkfertility.com; Ă?ĂŒĂ?Ă“ĂžĂ?Ë? lifelinkfertility.com 08033083580

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS AND THEIR EFFECT ON FERTILITY (1)

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dvancement in Science and Technology has brought about remarkable improvement in the quality of human life especially in areas such as Education, Agriculture,Manufacturing, Medicine and Communication. We now have telephones, computers, electronic transmission devices etc made easily accessible and user friendlyreplacing old forms of letter writing with cumbersome postages. However, these have also contributed to environmental toxicity. In other words technological equipment and their uses like communication masts, x-rays machines, generators, automobiles and diesel fumes, cigarette smoke, oil and gas processing emissions, insecticides, pesticides, herbicides for agriculture has contributed greatly to the high degree of environmental toxins experienced globally. The next question one may ask is “What are toxins and how do they affect humans?’’. Toxins are small molecules, peptides or proteins present in the air, water, soil, consumer products, pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, which are capable of causing disease on contact or absorption by body tissues interacting with biological molecules such as cellular receptors or enzymes. We are constantly exposed to toxins daily and this can affect fertility both in men and women. People at risk for toxin exposure are: Those who live in areas of high pollution with industrial chemicals Those who work with such toxins in the work places such as pesticides, organic chemicals, heavy metals (e.g. lead, mercury, radon, formaldehyde, benzene and cadmium) and radiations Heavy metals that are dangerous includes: cadmium, mercury and lead

upholstery cleaners. r #JTQIFOPM " DBMMFE #1" GPS TIPSU JT a commonly used plastic for foods and drink containers, but also found in the linJOH PG UJO DBOT &YQPTVSF UP #1" DBO MFBE to heart disease, diabetes, reproductive issues and birth defects

and they commonly pervade our foods, water supply and environment. The result of industrial processing. Their pollutants come from automobiles, cigarrete smoking and heavy pesticide use. Most people are exposed to these metals on a daily basis, where they can accumulate in their organs and impair reproductive health over time Nuclear explosion, factory emissions, chemicals all over our fruits and hormones in our meats, there is the potential that everywhere you go there is the potential for damage resulting from an environment which has been sorely abused All humans are at risk because toxins in form of phthalates seen in plastic food containers, clip wraps, medical supplies, vinyl flooring and packaging ,polyvinyl chloride chemicals used in rubber tyres, plastics and pesticides as well as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon released from cigarette, car fumes and road tar. Oil fossil, aviation fuel, diesel fumes all have be found to be highly toxic both to the general Health and to the reproductive system. Toxins around The House r1IUIBMBUFT VTVBMMZ BEEFE UP QMBTUJD UP make them more resilient, found in many

product in our home, including soaps, detergents, plastic bags, children toys, food packaging, shampoos, shower curtain and hairspray. Apart from lowering sperm count and motility in men, it has been found to act as endocrine disruptors in women, creating imbalance in Hormones that may delay or prevent ovulation. r 1BSBCFO 5IFTF BSF DIFNJDBMT QSJNBSily used as preservative in cosmetics BOE QIBSNBDFVUJDBMT 1BSBCFO IBT CFFO reported to affect oestrogen production and mimic it in the body. r%JPYJOT UIFTF BSF HSPVQ PG DIFNJDBMT formed during industrial processes, such as waste incineration, chemical and pesticides manufacturing, pulp and paper bleaching, after being released into the air UIFZ TFUUMF %JPYJO TFUUMFT PO UIF HSPVOE where it then contaminates soil and food supplies leading to reproductive and developmental problems. r 0SHBOPQIPTQIBUFT UIFTF DPNQPVOET are commonly used in the manufacturing of pesticides and herbicides. They have shown to negatively affect fertility, brain development and hormonal signalling. r 'PSNBMEFIZEF UIJT JT GPVOE JO BJS fresheners, deodorants, floor polish, and

I

lekantodu@yahoo.com 08060140882

Let There be Free Movement

President Buhari

initiative comes with some far-reaching outcomes that will also have positive impact on many areas of Nigeria’s social economic life. Aside the ease of movement that will be enjoyed by Nigerians with dual citizenship who, for so long, have complained of unnecessary delays at our airports due to their travel status, the impact of the government decision on foreign investors of Nigerian descent will be immeasurable. It is therefore important to note that there is evidently no better way for the Nigeria government to prove that it is open to business and foreign direct investment than this reversal of the obnoxious practice. With $22 billion in remittances into Nigeria in 2017, the Nigerian diaspora plays a significant role in strengthening and ensuring the smooth running of

How Do Toxins Affect Male and Female Reproduction The ability of toxins to negatively affect normal reproductive functioning is referred to as the Reproductive toxicity. Environmental toxins capable of causing disrupting normal reproductive functions are referred to as “Reprotoxics�.

with LEKAN FATODU

Overscenes must say that one of the most thoughtful EJSFDUJWFT CZ UIF 'FEFSBM (PWFSONFOU PG Nigeria recently is the stoppage of levy against Nigerians with dual citizenship at our airports. “As a new government policy, on no account should any Nigerian traveller holding dual citizenship pay fine for so-called overstay. “Citizens with dual nationality should only present both travelling documents of their countries of nationality to the immigration officials upon arrival and departure, regardless of whichever way they are using to travel�, a statement by the Minister of Interior, Retired Lt. Gen. "CEVMSBINBO %BNCB[BV TBJE Every close observer knows that the Nigerian system is replete with curious rules exerted at various official capacities which no one is even certain if the practices are backed by law or any documented policy. Though I cannot readily confirm if the absurd system of levy collection from Nigerians with dual citizenship is a product of a government policy or the usual bad behaviour of some overzealous government officials, it is reprehensible in all ramifications. It is actually preposterous to imagine that a government that, on one hand, is calling the best of Nigeria in diaspora to return home to contribute their expertise to the country’s development, would, on the other hand, be hindering the free movement of the same people they are inviting. I reckon that far from the imagination of the brains behind this laudable move, the

.HOW CAN TOXINS AFFECT FERTILITY? One out of six couple in the developed countries experience difficulty getting pregnant, this has been reported to be even worse in developing countries. Infertility is an alarming modern epidemic. Gone are the days when men were exonerated from the cause of infertility. Male infertility has been reported to be on the increase so that infertility is no more the woman’s problem. Many couple who can’t get pregnant on their own may be suffering from subclinical conditions. These are conditions that substantially reduce an individual’s chance of conception. A Recent study carried out to determine the effect of toxins on the body cells revealed toxins were capable of DBVTJOH %/" EBNBHF 5PYJOT BDUVBMMZ act as Endocrine disruptors(chemicals which can interfere with our Hormonal system and these disruption can result in birth defect and other developmental disorder). The adverse effect of toxins on the Endocrine (Hormonal) system eventually affects human development, reproductive, neurological (brain) and immune system.

government. And these same people also bring profitable goods and services into Nigeria through their frequent travels. So the best the government can offer them in return for such great endeavours is to constantly strive to deepen the ease of doing business as well as movement. Hence, this new policy is a step in the right direction. This is especially so as Nigeria dropped B TQPU JO UIF 8PSME #BOL T MBUFTU FBTF PG doing business ranking. And that means more aggressiveinterventions and reforms across board are needed. As nobody can tell the roles played by some of the previously mentioned retrogressive rules and practices in the outDPNFT PG UIF 8PSME #BOL T SBUJOH QPMJDZ makers in the Nigerian government ought to be more thorough in their approach.

Denzil’s Dazzling Tunes

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any young Nigerians are reaching several unimaginable homes and borders with great music which is helping to promote Nigeria’s culture and other fascinating way of life. And the number of these amazing talents LFFQT TXFMMJOH %FO[JM #BOLPMF CFUUFS LOPXO CZ IJT TUBHF OBNF $&0 %J[[ JT B #SJUJTI /JHFSJBO IJQ IPQ BSUJTU DVSSFOUMZ ruling the airwaves with his brilliant lyrics and raising his voice for Nigeria with his fine tunes. The promising grime artist, rapper, lyricist and songwriter is also an inspirational entrepreneur. Going by the volume of food and agro products he has brought from Africa to sell to wholesalers in the UK, a business group recently named him the youngest food importer in the UK. The 26-year-old musician had a degree in #VTJOFTT &OUSFQSFOFVS GSPN #VDLJOHIBN University. He has just released a single titled, Mi Casa Su Casa Naija boy in London, which is already garnering positive reviews.

Bankole

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COLLAGE EVENTS Captivating Stage Plays to Look Forward to as Lagos Fringe Festival Kicks o November 11 Mary Nnah

L-R: Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki; Kwara State Governor, Dr. Abdulfatah Ahmed and Former Military Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, during funeral and Thanksgiving Service for ďŹ rst military Governor of Kwara State,Late Brig. Gen. David Bamigboye at Cathedral of St. Paul Anglican Communion, Omu Aran...recently

Film, music and theatre is about to come together for Africa’s largest performance festival, Lagos Fringe Festival 2018 and Nigerians are looking forward to the event with great excitement. A pivotal aspect of the activities lined up for the theatre at Lagos Fringe is looking exciting, thrilling and completely engaging as the organisers of the festival led by Kenneth Uphopho have unveiled a lineup of several captivating and fascinating plays expected to showcase. The plays include Claustro, ClichĂŠ, Save Our Song & That Scoundrel Suberu, L’Otor The Devils Pilgrimage, Save Our Song, Light Up Your World - For Kids, Naija Saga, HOME, Who Is Mad, Bad Women, CORA Book & Art Fair, Music Concert, Nollywood Scoundrels, A Parliament Of Vulture, Defiance, Drooping Palm, Goodnight Drama, Rooliug, Under The Rainbow, Esther’s Revenge, Colour Me Pink, That Scoundrel Suberu, Cloned Lives, August Meeting, HELP!!! and Bridezilla. Showcasing at the various strands of venues of the festival include Terrakulture, Main Lagos Fringe Stage, Kongi’s Harvest Gallery, Freedom Park, British Council, The Ramp, British Council, Main stage & Amphitheatre, these plays will serve to entertain attendees and give them memorable theatre experiences. Speaking on the array of plays available for the viewing pleasure of attendees, Uphopho said the Lagos Fringe will be showcasing the best and brightest of talents Lagos has to offer during a week-long adventure of everything art and culture, adding, “we also made sure that we added a lot of exciting activities for kids so the whole family can partake of the festivitiesâ€?. Lagos Fringe was inspired by the desire to provide a platform for network, showcase, empowerment and engagement for arts makers, to develop the connection to audiences and international guests/promoters. Consequently, the quintessential performing arts festival has launched a competition for artists with the grand festival billed to take place from Sunday, November 11 till Sunday, November 18, 2018 in Lagos. Therefore, organisers have opened entries for visual artists to enter the competition as part of this year’s festival.

ELOY Awards 2018 to Hold November 25 The 10th edition of the Exquisite Lady of the Year (ELOY) awards is L – R: President of the National Council, The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo; Ik Alile (son), Dr. (Mrs.) Patience Alile (wife) and Chief Executive OďŹƒcer, NSE, Mr. Oscar N. Onyema, during the presentation of a replica of the Closing Gong to the Alile family at the ceremony held to honour and bid the erstwhile Director-General of the NSE, Apostle Hayford Alile, farewell at the exchange in Lagos....recently

Lagos City Chorale being directed by Mr. Emeka Nwokedi, rendering songs during a farewell assembly in honour of Late Allison Akene Ayida CFR, a Past President of KCOBA, organised by Kings College Old Boys Association in Lagos...recently ABIODUN AJALA

L-R: Lead Coach, The Source Coaching Limited, Yanju Olamola; Managing Director, Corporate Potential. Lisa Wynnl and President International Coach Federation, Nigeria Chapter, Titi Akinsanya at the Power of Coaching in leadership networking session in Lagos...recently

gradually drawing near and preparations are in full gear for the event scheduled to hold on November 25 at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Lagos. The spotlight is beaming on women as it is evident in Nigeria and around the world, as policymakers, financial institutions, business support organisations and more are waking up to the idea that women are good for the economic prosperity of the nation and they are recognising the untapped potential of women. In 2009, a long-conceived idea came to life, since then, Exquisite magazine, the organisers of this prestigious awards, led by its publisher Tewa Onasanya, has been consistently celebrating women of excellence in different field to empower as it inspires other women. “The ELOY Awards is first of its kind to be consistently held in Nigeria. The aim is to have it grow each year as we recognise and award outstanding women and their roles in society. “From their humble beginnings, they have grown to become people other women and men admire and emulate while striving for success�, Publisher, Exquisite magazine, Tewa Onasanya said. Every year, the ELOY awards planning committee meet to evaluate the women chosen by the general public to vet and pick the women with the highest nomination, who then make up the nominees list to be voted for by the general public. This year the voting runs through to November 18, 2018 and some selected categories He4She, ELOY Banking and Finance Award, ELOY Award for Politics and ELOY Lifetime Achievement Award, recipients are chosen by a selected ELOY committee member. The voting windows are open, and the 2018 ELOY awards nominees can be voted for by the public.

Mwanga Scented Candles and Diusers Unveiling for November 11 On Sunday, November 11, 2018, the panoramic hall of The Civic Center Lagos will play host to the creme de la creme of the society and esteemed personalities as they gather for the hugely anticipated official grand unveiling of Mwanga Africa - Home of bespoke scented candles and diffusers. Following its launch earlier in October, the bespoke candles and diffusers have seen an unprecedented but unsurprising embrace by society’s lovers of endearing sweet smells embedded in the products. At the event which is strategically fixed for a Sunday to give guests a restful and serene ambience, the pop-up store will open its doors to scents lovers in Nigeria and Africa at large. Speaking on the launch, Founder/CEO, Mwanga Africa, Omoyeni Disu explained that guests are in for a memorable experience of a lifetime. She said: “I am launching an experience, a different kind of happy, my candles bear messages of love, light and happiness and its available in various flavors - Strawberry Shortcake, Hazelnut Coffee, Sparkling Pomelo, Watermelon, Coconut Lime Verbana, Mango and Tangerine to mention a few.â€? Mwanga Africa started out as an online store. It is availableon www. mwangaafrica.com. Glitter Girl Innovations Limited is an international company that houses Mwanga Candles and Diffusers – producers of bespoke scented candles an d diffusers. Mwanga provides a wide range of scented candles, diffusers, fragrance oils and car fresheners designed to meet the needs of teeming consumers, without compromising on quality. Mwanga focuses on providing a serene and endearing ambiance for customers, uplifting their mood psychologically and keeping the energy healthy and inviting.

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POTPOURRI

AGN Honours Nollywood Veterans

The Veteran Nite organised by the Actors Guild of Nigerian (AGN), Lagos State Chapter, recorded impressive attendance as the auditorium was filled with thespians, conflagration of stars, newbies and some of the current and past leaders of the guild, both at national and state level. The event which took place on Tuesday , October 20, at Lekki Beach Central Hotels, saw some Nollywood legends like Keppy Ekpenyong, Tony Akposhere, Tari West, Emeka Duru and host of others in attendance. The current President of the AGN, Emeka Rollas Ejezie, was unavoidably absent because of his trip to Kigali on a courtesy call to the Somalia President, however, three of his special advisers, Chucky Egbu, Ijeoma Imoh and Edmund Onyiriogwu, graced the occasion. Before the climax of the event, which was the award, the audience was thrilled by the compere, MC Linchung aka Oliver Duke, a polyglot with rib cracking jokes, alongside other comedians, who were at hand to make the night enthralling. Some of the veterans proved that the world has not left them behind as they sauntered to contemporary dance as well to the admiration of the young generation among the audience. The highlight of the Veteran Nite was the awards presented to the veterans in appreciation of their contributions to the growth of AGN. There were three different categories of the awards

AGN President, Emeka Ejezie

given to 11 recipients. The most coveted award was the Life Time Achievements Award bestowed to Prince Ifeanyi, former National President and the Chairman Board of Trustee of the Guild. The Outstanding Achievement Award was handed out to Emmanuel Oguguah the Vice Chairman of Board of Trustee and the National President of the Guild between 1997 and 2002; under his watch the guild was

officially registered with the change of its name to Actors Guild of Nigeria. His presidency also commenced the formation of state chapters including Lagos State Chapter. In addition to the two distinctive awards, nine others received Merit Award in recognition of their commitment, dedication and service to the guild. The awardees include Com-

mander COC Nze, Amaka Eze Amaka, Tony Akposhere of the Zaky of New Masquerade fame, Mrs. Stella Samuguna, Evangelist Tayler, Doris Unachukwu, Christy Okonkwo, Edmund Onyiriogwu, the former National Secretary of Guild, erstwhile Chief Press Secretary the National President Segun Arinze and the Special Adviser on Research and Documentation to the current National President Emeka Rollas Ejezie to mention just a few. One of the recipients of the Merit Award, Akposheri expressed his profound joy geared towards the guild. He said: “The award is good and it’s the first time the guild honoured the veterans in her midst.� He further urged other guild members to support the award events for veterans actors because without actors the business will not excel. Mr Udochi Nwaodu, former Chief Internal Auditor UBA Group worldwide, and the Chairman/CEO of Lekki Beach Central hotels, who spoke extensively on the undying efforts of the guild, added that, “it is commendable for the executive of Actors Guild of Nigeria to honour their veterans. “It underscores its inclusiveness and sensitivity. Also, I am excited at the honour given to me today to be selected as a patron of the AGN. We are willing to collaborate with Nollywood and support the guild in our own little way.’’

Lalong, Runsewe, Stakeholders to Drive Plateau Economy with Culture and Tourism Jonathan Eze Culture and tourism have been identified as key drivers in a bid to transform the socio-economic fortunes of Plateau State and by extension, Nigeria. This resolve by the Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong, along with culture and tourism experts was further corroborated by the DirectorGeneral, National Council for Arts and Culture, Segun Runsewe, while delivering a speech at the first Plateau Tourism Conference held in Jos with the theme: Unlocking the vast potential of tourism as a financing option for sustainable socio-economic development. Runsewe who was one of the speakers at the occasion, commended the governor for looking in the direction of culture and tourism, just as he seized the moment to inform the world that Plateau was safe and

Lalong

ready for business with its vast potential in culture and tourism destinations. The NCAC chief debunked stories making the rounds that the state was in crisis, stating that he would not have travelled to Plateau

along with his staff for the conference if the state was not safe. Runsewe added his voice to several other speakers at the event who collectively expressed determination to hit the ground running by working with the

governor to market Plateau to the rest of the world. He was positive that with the new interest and efforts from stakeholders, Plateau can now assume the pride status of a culture and tourism hub in Nigeria.

Gospel Sensation Malvi Set to Host “Streams of Worship� Concert Gospel artist, Malvi Chioma Ikoku popularly known by her stage name Malvi, is set to organise her maiden concert “Streams Of Worship.� She said the concert is a spiritual experience of miracles, bonding and renewal of relationship with Christ. “It is going to be a great time in the presence of God. It is dear to my heart, for me, it’s my baby, a refreshing experience. I want to share with lovers of God. This is

not my first concert because growing up I had something small, but this is a major concert for me,� she added. Asides discussing her upcoming concert, she revealed that she had new music in the works. For her most well received song to date, she said: “The particular song that people like so much and I have gotten feedback from is ‘Smile’, and it is contemporary, it relates to everybody, Christian and Muslims alike.� For those that don’t know,

Malvi, the Port Harcourt born singer started off quite early in the music industry. According to her: “growing up, I was blessed to have parents that were supportive; my dad was a clergy man so he was there to guide me spiritually, my mother was supportive and I had some people I looked up to like a man we popularly called elder Okolo; he actually made me join the choir then, Church of God Mission Choir. “My siblings were also

supportive, they were also into gospel music. It was challenging growing up as a young girl trying to be part of the music ministry, but I think, I had great support.� The “Streams of Worship� concert will hold on November 18, 2018 at The Event Centre, Caplisco Park in Wuse, Abuja and will feature popular gospel acts such as Chioma Jesus, Ezabella Melody from UK, Mercy Chinwo, Praiz Bishop, Minister Shawn Michael, Minister Joy Ojo, and Samsung.

Osinbajo

Ă?Ă“Ă˜ĂŒĂ‹Ă”Ă™Ëœ Ă“Ă˜Ă&#x;ĂŒĂ&#x;Ëœ ÞÒĂ?ĂœĂ? ÞÙ ĘľĂ?Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă?Ă“Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă™Ă? ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă˜ĂŽĂ? ͟͸ÞÒ Ă˜Ă˜Ă“Ă Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă‹ĂœĂŁ Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, will lead an array of dignitaries to the 40th anniversary of the famous social club, Association of Friends, which will kick off on Monday, November 12 with a public lecture in Lagos. The lecture entitled “Restructuring, to be or not to beâ€? is also expected to be attended by the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu, royal fathers, captains of industry, politicians and professionals. The club Secretary, Bayo Babatunde, who disclosed this at a press conference in Lagos, listed other programmes for the 40th anniversary celebration to include Community Health Intervention within the Maryland, Mende and Oningbongbo neighbourhood as well as a visitation to an orphanage. He said: “We shall be hosting the Anniversary Business Summit on Tuesday, November 13 and On Thursday, November 15, the finals of the anniversary games will be played and medals and trophies will be awarded to winners. “An inter-religious prayer session will take place in the morning of Friday, November 16, while in the evening, the club will host friends, well-wishers to a special Anniversary Suya Night in honour of the founders/elders of the club with a distinguished member, Adewale Ayuba, who will be on the band stand. The Anniversary Gala Night will take place on Sunday, November 18, where the pioneer members will be honoured and new members inducted in a mixed programme of fun, comedy and music extravaganza by another distinguished member, King Sunny Ade on the band stand.â€? He said the Association of Friends popularly known as “Up Assoâ€? came out of a vision of some young men, eight of them who decided in 1978 to concretise their fledging relationship and dominance of social space into a sustainable institution that will outlive them. He gave the names of the young men who are now in their late 70s and early 80s as Alhaji Sule Onabiyi, Festus Adeleke Adesina, Akinlawon Akanni Abiola, Oba Fatai Irawo-Ogunsi, Late Prince Ayinde Adesiyan, Evangelist Kola Sanyaolu, Mr. Sunday Adigun. “As the name implies, Association of Friends was formed by jolly childhood friends and you have to be recommended by two friends amongst other qualities before admission into probation in the club. “That condition precedence is maintained as integral part of our admission policy. We have in our membership an elected ex-governor, royal fathers, serving speaker and distinguished legislators (serving and past), captains of industries, retired top chiefs, commissioners, directors bad senior management of corporate giants, high ranking politicians and commercial entrepreneurs. “Ours is an equal opportunity club, where any member can aspire to any position once he can demonstrate capacity and competence. Like any formal organisation, the key to our continued leadership is discipline; we adhere to our constitution which provides the tools for both the management and discipline of our fledging club. “It is worthy of note that every development that we have embarked upon from inception to date has been fully financed through the generosity of our members, while we are not averse to grants from government as a major social club; we have not been privileged for such yetâ€?, he added.

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ENTREPRENEUR

Ugo Ndidi: My Passion for Fashion is my Daily Motivation Ě‹ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜Ëœ Ă‘Ă™ Ă“Ă˜Ă‹ ĂŽĂ“ĂŽĂ“Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂœĂ?ËÞÓà Ă? Ă“ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂžĂ™Ăœ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă“ĂŽĂ“ ĂœĂ?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă“Ă—Ă“ĂžĂ?ĂŽËœ ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ–ĂŁ ÙÚĂ?Ă˜Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹ Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ Ă?ÒÙÚ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă?âÛĂ&#x;Ă“Ă?Ă“ĂžĂ? ĂŒĂœĂ‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă™Ă? Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă“Ă›Ă&#x;Ă?Ă–ĂŁ ĂŒĂ?Ă‹ĂŽĂ?ĂŽ ĂŒĂ‹Ă‘Ă? Ă“Ă˜ Ă‹Ă‘Ă™Ă?Ëœ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ë› Ă˜ ÞÒÓĂ? Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ Ă“Ă?ĂĄ åÓÞÒ Mary Nnah Ă?Ă’Ă? ÞËÖÕĂ? Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ăž Ă’Ă?Ăœ ÚËĂ?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă™Ă˜ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂĄĂ’ĂŁ Ă?Ă’Ă? Ă’Ă‹ĂŽ ÞÙ Ă?Ù×Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă– ÞÒĂ? ĂĄĂ‹ĂŁ ÞÙ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ ÞÙ ÙÚĂ?Ă˜ Ă?ÒÙÚ˛ âĂ?Ă?ĂœĂšĂžĂ?Ë?

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ow long have you been in business and why did you think now is time to look at the market back home? The brand was officially launched in June 2012. We have always had a presence here, as we launched here. The only new addition here is opening of Didi Creations flagship store at Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, just few weeks back and hopefully we would be opening more branches in Abuja and other cities soon.

with one manufacturer I met in Italy. Shortly after I launched my brand, I was still sourcing for manufacturers across the globe hence visited several sourcing fairs. I met a manufacturer in one of such fairs in Italy, we had several meetings afterwards to finalise production requirements; where I chose my leathers, Did the sketching, specified my colours etc. To my utmost surprise, after I received my products (over a hundred bags), it was totally different from what I wanted and all efforts to reach him on the phone proved abortive. Lesson learned. Now I take it as a point of duty to visit the factories of my manufacturers prior to any business dealings.

Now that your luxurious handmade bags have ďŹ nally been brought to Nigeria for customers who love what you do with the craft in the United Kingdom, how ready are you for the Nigerian market that’s almost saturated in similar enterprise? And why did you have to come all the way to Nigeria for this purpose? We are very prepared for the Nigerian market in the sense that it took me six years to survey this market and test the waters here. Despite being based in the United Kingdom, I launched Didi Creation here in 2012, and we had a huge turnout on the day. Afterwards I stocked with about eight different retail outlets between Lagos and Abuja, and I must say the customer feedback from most of our stocks has been quite encouraging. One of the catalysts that triggered the decision to finally set up our flagship store here was after our exhibition at the GTBANK Fashion Weekend 2017 where we had several customers requesting for more. Who exactly are your target customers? Our target clientele is the middle-class earners and the high net-worth individuals. Of all other fashion accessories, why did you choose bags as your premium product offer? I started designing bags, shoes and accessories as a result of my passion for these fashion pieces. My personal love and preference for genuine leather and statement fashion pieces was also a huge factor. I believed I had something to offer on the fashion scene and had been told times without number by strangers, friends and family that I was quite creative, whenever I was seen in any of my designed custom made sample pieces hence I decided to pull the bull by the horn and made up my mind to start designing as a means of livelihood. I work with some of the trusted and tested Artisans across the globe to create my perfect finished pieces. So, my passion for fashion is my daily motivation that keeps me going. Are there plans to extend your products beyond bags? Definitely. We hope to keep growing and expanding our horizon. Now our product line-up includes: Bags, Unisex Footwear, Accessories and Unisex Clothing. I also recently launched a Kiddies line two years ago; Didi Creations Kids. Bead and leather bags are not quite novel to the lifestyle connoisseurs here in Nigeria, especially Lagos, what’s different in what you offer? Our ethos and signature: offering quality and value for money to clients is key in everything we create, hence our slogan “Premium Quality for Lessâ€?. We are known for creating unique statement pieces (sometimes one offs) and most of our design inspirations are drawn from colours, retro, African Arts and Culture. How exactly did you transit into the business of making and selling bags? I started designing professionally in 2012. However, I had been designing part time and as a hobby since 2005. I had always loved to stand out from the crowd through my choice of clothing, hair, make up and

What are the other things that fascinate you aside fashion? Not so many people know I have six full-time jobs, so I get mixed reactions each time I say so. I’m a Certified Travel Consultant, Certified Interior Designer, Certified Business Coach, Certified Life Coach and A Blogger. I sell travel products and have a Travel Business; Didi Deluxe Travel Limited while Didi Deluxe Services takes care of the Interior Design and my other businesses. I am that Travel Blogger who absolutely Love travelling and hopes to travel the world. I have visited over thirty countries now and still counting.

Ndidi

accessories from my teenage years. This metamorphosed into my university days at the University of Ibadan where I would alter already made clothes through shredding, painting etc. just to look different. After graduation in 2001, I worked briefly with the corporate sector; insurance, aviation and publishing sectors respectively. I quit the corporate world in 2005 to become an entrepreneur and set up my first fashion business same year, though it was part time at the time, as I ventured into other busi-

Our ethos and signature: offering quality and value for money to clients is key in everything we create, hence our slogan “Premium Quality for Less�. We are known for creating unique statement pieces (sometimes one offs) and most of our design inspirations are drawn from colours, retro, African Arts and Culture

nesses. Didi Creations Limited was berthed June 2012, and building the brand is my full-time job now. Your sense of style must have its inspiration drawn from somewhere, what is your story? My mum was a very stylish woman; I enjoyed watching her dress up and started emulating her from my teenage years. My personal style really does vary day-to-day, depending on my mood and destination. I try style-wise because I always love to dress up and enjoy standing out from the crowd. However, I would say the following describe my style the best on most occasions; Sophisticated, Assertive, Chic, Fierce, Afrocentric, Bold, Confident and Glamorous. Before this enterprise, what were you doing? I was with the corporate sector between 2002 and 2005. I must say my experiences at these places prepared me on how to run my own businesses. I worked as a Customer Service/ Front Desk Personnel in an insurance firm in 2002. In 2003-2004, I worked as a Ticketing and Reservation Staff with an airline. Finally, in 2005, I worked briefly as a marketing executive with a book/publishing firm. In all sincerity, what is the worst business decision blunder you ever made and how did you survive? I have made a few to be honest. However, I won’t forget in a hurry my experience

How were your formative years like? I come from a middle-class family; my parents both worked with the Nigerian Ports Authority till my dad retired. My mum on the other hand, though of blessed memory, quit the civil service in 1991 to set up her first business same year and had several others in her lifetime. I got my entrepreneurial skills from her. I am the first child of my parents and had four siblings, I recently lost a sibling in January, so I have three now. We were all born in Lagos, and I had both my primary and secondary education in Lagos, before proceeding for my first degree at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria where I studied Philosophy and Political Science (Combined Honours). I further bagged a Post-Graduate Diploma in Business Management from the London Business College and topped up with a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Edge Hill University, Lancashire. Growing up was fun for me as I and my siblings are close-knit. My Mum was my best friend till her demise. As kids, we were involved in quite a lot of church activities because my dad was very active in church and is still a Lay Reader in the Anglican Communion till date. I was actively involved with the Girls Brigade, Girls Guild, Anglican Children Ministry and did represent my church in so many quiz competitions. I hardly got into trouble with my parents and peers as I was a very careful child that never loved rough plays. At school, I was quite popular and was an above average pupil which led to my having double promotions twice in primary school. I remember not being shy and always volunteering to partake in drama, debate, quiz and cultural dance groups. What was the ďŹ rst career you got obsessed with early in life and if you didn’t ďŹ nally pursue it, why did you make a detour? I still can’t believe I didn’t end up as a Medical Doctor. I was a Pure Science student in high school and loved Biology. Myself and my best friend in high school wanted to become doctors and already had a name (coined from our names) for the hospital we planned to set up. Most of our peers in high school refer to both of us by this name till date. However, my JAMB score didn’t reach the cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery, hence couldn’t secure me an admission to study Medicine, and I didn’t want any other school apart from the University of Ibadan at the time, neither was I willing to write another JAMB. Hence, I had no option than to switch to the Faculty of Arts.

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METRO

‌Your city life in print

Encouraging Sustainable Environment with Community Investment As a way of re-enforcing its commitment to sustainability principles and in commemoration of its 10th year of encouraging sustainable environment with community investment, Mary Nnah writes that Access Bank Plc Nigeria, dedicated November 5 to 9 as it’s Sustainability Awareness Week

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For a whole week, Access Bank performed a series of activities to mark its 10 years of commitment to sustainability principal. The event tagged, “Sustainability Awareness Week�, which kicked off on Monday, November 5 and will be rounding up today, November 9, is geared towards deepening the sustainability culture among its employees and reminding them of the crucial role they must play in creating a sustainable future. In an interview with THISDAY, the Head of Sustainability, Access Bank Plc Nigeria, Mrs. Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan said the weeklong event, which has the theme, “The Journey to a Sustainable Future�, particularly aims at encouraging employees to engage in activities that will positively impact the environment as well as touch lives, leaving indelible positive memories on people. She said: “As a leading African financial institution, Access Bank has the influence to support responsible business practices throughout its organisation, within the industry and for its client. The bank believes that customers, employees, the wider community and the world we live in deserve to be treated responsibly and actively supported. “ Victor-Laniyan explained that through the bank’s employee volunteering scheme, “we encourage our employees to add value to their communities�, noting that the Bank measures employees’ progress against agreed objectives and targets and can incentivise, recognise, and reward the right types of behaviour and outcomes. Consequently, the Access Bank Sustainability Awareness Week 2018 which held in all the subsidiaries of Access Bank, was packed with series of events, one of which is the Employee Volunteering Awareness Day that recognised the contributions of employees who have championed various innovative initiatives to better the lives of people in various communities. During the week, the bank also rewarded sustainable actions of employees and groups across the bank. In addition, various impactful training sessions and workshops were held to educate people on the importance of embedding responsible practices in business operations and everyday life while highlighting the effect on the bank’s triple bottom line- Planet, People and Profit. The first training session for employees whose topic was ‘Leading Sustainably’ held on Tuesday, the second training session was for Access Bank suppliers and was tagged ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’. The third training session holds today, Friday, November 9 for employees and the topic is ‘Community Investment’ this will be conducted by HACEY Health Initiative. As part of its plan for encouraging and promoting healthy living among staff and external stakeholders, the bank during the weeklong activities started a Biggest Loser weight loss competition. This competition is aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles amongst the bank’s employees. Victor-Laniyan who spoke further on why the bank is so passionate about sustainability noted that the bank believes that protecting the environment is the duty of every human being and business; and as such helps in guaranteeing the future. She stressed therefore that the bank is not only in business to maximise shareholders’ value but considers the social and environmental impact of every aspect of its banking operations and channel its resources to achieve sustainable growth and development in Africa. She said therefore that this was the obvious reason why the company in carrying out its business, puts the community at the centre of everything it does, adding that it will continue to live true to the company’s promise in its mission to set standards for sustainable practices that unleash the talents of their employees, deliver superior value to their customers and provide innovative solutions for the markets and communities they serve. She stressed that for Access Bank, sustainability means more than finding new

Head, Sustainability, Access Bank Plc, Omobolanle Victor- Laniyan

customers, or making profit, adding that its view on sustainability encompasses wider social and environmental systems. Speaking on what effect the substantiality awareness week will have in the nation’s economy generally, Victor-Laniyan said, “By commemorating the sustainability awareness week encouraging staff to live a more sustainable life Access Bank is contributing their quota by putting their business at the centre of spreading the word on sustainability, as they strive to provide value to the markets. “Access Bank is advocating building economic foundations, the right conditions and institutional frameworks upon which

From the outset, we challenged ourselves to operate to the highest global standards. We understand that the long-term security of the communities where we operate, the well-being of our employees, the strength of the global economy, and the enduring success of our business as a bank depend on our commitment to sustainability

to encourage investment, innovation and economic development. The sustainability awareness week will ensure a strong awareness of the need for development efforts to focus on sustainable long-term economic development if poverty is to be reduced. “As a strong dynamic growing economy will strive to increase revenue generation and create employment, resulting in higher personal and household income which can be of benefit to the most impoverished. Living a sustainable life will help generate the needed financial resources to invest in the well-being of people.� Mindful of the fact that the cost of action and inaction can be grave, the bank has demonstrated a constant focus on making real change through social outcomes and creating a sustainable future for itself and its customers. Over the years, it has been able to consistently identify and create a roadmap that increasingly values long-term sustainable development in investment, financial transactions and environmental stewardship. Victor-Laniyan explained further that as a global financial institution, its environmental impact stems from the operations in the office buildings, bank branches, and data centres. Access Bank is consciously working on reducing the environmental impact of its operations through consistent reductions in its environmental footprints. “Our resource conservation programmes, in water usage, energy consumption, and waste recycling, are helping to cut down CO2 emission. Also, through our lending and investment activities, coupled with our procurement practices, we have indirect environmental impacts. With the understanding that climate change will have a social and economic impact on our customers,

we ensure that we properly manage risk while capturing new markets. “We imagine the endless possibilities that the future holds. Hence, with creativity, innovation, and speed, we are making vital contributions in creating a sustainable future� she added. “We have established a proactive approach to the sustainability agenda, by working with our employees, our customers and our suppliers to ensure that sustainability sits at the heart of all actions. We are also committed to building a lasting and profitable financial institution that operates in a manner that will not compromise the ability of future generations to live in a healthy environment and prosperous communities. We have, therefore, integrated this principle into our operational decisions and business strategy.� “From the outset, we challenged ourselves to operate to the highest global standards. We understand that the long-term security of the communities where we operate, the well-being of our employees, the strength of the global economy, and the enduring success of our business as a bank depend on our commitment to sustainability. Long-term profit and growth can only be achieved with sustainable environmental, economic and social policies. “We are leaders and will sustain our leadership areas by being a flagbearer for responsible business. We are setting new standards for the industry. We take responsible business very seriously because we know that the impact, we can have on people’s lives is enormous�, she added. Access Bank, which has become a leading African bank with sustainability as the cornerstone of its business philosophy, believes that by delivering social, economic and environmental value today, we can create shareholder’s value tomorrow.�

39

F R I DAY Ëž ÍˇËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

CRIME&SECURITY

Royalty Visits the Nigeria Navy in Lagos Chiemelie Ezeobi

The Nigerian Navy (NN), on Wednesday, received Prince Charles of Wales, as part of efforts to deepen the dividends of maritime security cooperation between the United Kingdom and Nigeria. The visit was quite symbolic given that the NN was an offshoot of Britain’s Royal Navy before Nigerian gained independence. The Prince of Wales who arrived the jetty of the Naval Dockyard Limited in Victoria Island, Lagos, at about 1:46 pm on Wednesday, was recieved by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas. After mounting the podium, the NN Ceremonial Guard presented the salute before playing one stanza of the UK National Anthem. He immediately boarded Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) EKULU, where the Commanding Officer, Commander Andrew Zidon received him alongside the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Habila Ngalabak and other senior officers, who paid compliments. After he was escorted to the quarterdeck and ascended to the Flying Bridge, he was received onboard and saluted by all, before the vessel set sail. Whilst at sea, the prince received a brief overview of UK defence in Nigeria and the gains of the NN in securing the nation’s vast maritime domain. Whilst sailing the area of responsibility (AOR), the objectives of the visit was thus achieved. He

afterwards escorted to the wardroom by Zidon and invited to sign the ship’s visitors book, before he bid farewell and disembarked. He however paused to receive a hearty three cheers from the ship’s company before departing with his team. According to information provided by the Director Navy Information Officer, Commodore Ayo Olugbode, the objectives of the visit was to highlight and demonstrate to the prince UK’s maritime contribution to defence engagement in Nigeria and the importance of Lagos Harbour to the Nigerian economy. He said: “Another objective of his visit was to strengthen relations with the Nigerian Navy by visiting NNS EKULU and meeting with the Chief of Naval Staff, and other personnel. The visit was also an opportunity to raise the profile of UK -Nigerian maritime security cooperation.� Ibas while speaking with journalists after the departure of the prince, said the visit was an encouragement for the navy, adding that it would also show the participation of the royal navy on our waters. He said: “The Nigerian Navy is an offshoot of the Royal Navy and he is also here to see by himself the progress being made through the cooperative support the royal navy has been giving Nigeria. He has come to see for himself the progress being made through the cooperative support that the Royal Navy and the British Government has given Nigeria.

“We were able to demonstrate some of those capabilities to him, perhaps this will spur government to support the navy both materially and in other affairs of capacity building. Our effort is to ensure that we police this our sea area to allow free trade so that Nigerian lives will be better off, basically to ensure that prosperity remains with our people. “Somebody can only visit you when the person is sure you are making progress and of course, the visit is an encouragement to the Nigerian Navy. For us, having visited, they are aware of other exercises that have been conducted by other partner nations. “We have had the French Navy visit us, we have had the German as well as other navies. If I recall the last time we had an exercise with the Royal Navy was about three or four years ago, perhaps with this visit we can see more of the participation of the Royal Navy in our sea exercises. “We have been relating, they have been training our men, the joint Maritime training center was funded and being supported by the UK government but we have asked for more support to enable us police the vast unpoliced areas. “The results speak for themselves, we have been able to contain the menace of sea robbers and sea pirates. It’s not something that can be wiped or wished away, in the last couple of months, we have been able to keep them out of the maritime environment. We need more of such encouragement. We are almost 75 per cent operationally ready.�

CRIME SITUATION REPORTS

SECURITY TIPS (PART 24) r&OTVSF UIBU B WBMJE JEFOUJUZ DBSE JT BMXBZT XJUI ZPV *U XJMM DPNF JO handy, especially if there is a police raid. r "MXBZT LFFQ B UPSDIMJHIU BOE XIJTUMF DMPTF UP ZPV *U T BO JNQPSUBOU security gadget in Nigeria, which is a great way to alert people when the chips are down. r#VZ TFDVSJUZ EPHT JG ZPV DBO FTQFDJBMMZ JG ZPV MJWF BMPOF XJUI ZPVS family in a fenced compound. r *OTUBMM CVSHMBSZ QSPPG JO ZPVS XJOEPXT BOE EPPST r,FFQ MJNJUFE DBTI BU IPNF XJUI ZPV r *OTUBMM $$57 $BNFSBT JO ZPVS IPNF BOE PGĂ DF 5IJT XJMM IFMQ ZPV monitor activities within your facility. r8IFO ESJWJOH BU OJHIU FOTVSF UIBU ZPVS DBS HMBTTFT BSF BMM XJOEVQ r8IFO JOTJEF ZPVS DBS NBLF VTF PG UIF TFDVSJUZ MPDL r%PO U NBLF VTF PG "5. UP XJUIESBX DBTI PS QBZ JO DBTI XIFO JUT EBSL r #F DBSFGVM PG XIBU ZPV TBZ PO UIF QIPOF XIFO ZPV BSF JO QVCMJD Source: Experts Security Tips (expertsecuritytips.com) .

POLICE STATIONS IN LAGOS WITH FAMILY SUPPORT UNIT The Lagos State Police has released an update on police stations in the state that have Family Support Units (FSUs)/Gender Unit/Juvenile Welfare Centre (JWC) and phone numbers to reach them on. 1.Adeniji Adele, Lagos Island 09062887864 2. Isokoko 09062887856 3. Ilupeju 09062887848 4. Festac 09062887841 5. Alakuko 09062887861 6. Badagry 09062887852 7. Ajah 09062887849 8. Ikorodu (Igbogbo) 09062887858 9. Ketu 09062887866 10. Ikotun 09062887870 11. Gender Desk, Police Command, GRA 09062887853 12. Ikeja Divisional Police Station 09062887863 13. JWC Alakara 09062887859 Source: Lagos State Police Command

LAGOS CP AND PRINCIPAL OFFICERS A1. CP Imohimi Edgal, Commissioner of Police Lagos State 08033040870 2. DCP Ayuba Elkanah Nabuni, Deputy Commissioner of Police Administration 08033422152 3. DCP Muhammed Ali Ari, Deputy Commissioner of Police Operations 08073666669 4.ACP Mohammed Danladi, Area Commander A, Lagos Island 08034668470 5. ACP Sani Sabo, Area Commander B Apapa 08038452224 6. ACP Godwin Eze, Area Commander C Surulere 08023407772. 7. ACP Akinbayo Olasoji, Area Commander D Mushin 08037140083 8. ACP Yusuf Ajape, Area Commander E Festac 08037073372 9. ACP Ibrahim Zungura, Area Commander F, Ikeja 08052058001 10. ACP Arumse J.D, Area Commander G Ogba 08033464144

L-R: Chief of Naval Sta, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas; Prince Charles of Wales; Flag OďŹƒcer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Habila Ngalabak, and Commandant Joint Maritime Security Training Centre, Captain Noel Madugu, onboard NNS EKULU in Lagos during the monarch’s visit to the Nigerian Navy

11. ACP Miller Dantawaye, Area Commander H, Ogudu 08036695572 12. ACP Felix Oben, Area Commander J Elemoro 08033320682 13. ACP Hope Okafor, Area Commander K Morogbo 08026279242 14. ACP Ishola Olarenwaju, Area Commander L Ilashe, 0810321160 15 ACP Agbaminoja Toyin, Area Commander M Idimu 08081776484 16. ACP Mohammed Ahmadu, Area Commander N Ijede 08055554664 17. ACP Abdulsalam Gazali Alade, Area Commander P Alagbado 08033539984 18. CSP Chike Oti, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), 07065246927. Source: The Lagos State Police Command

Prince Charles of Wales with Commanding OďŹƒcer NNS EKULU, Commander Andrew Zidon

40

F R I DAY Ëž ÍˇËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

LIFE

THISDAY Shines at National Crime Watch Award Night At the 2018 National Crime Watch Awards, which recently held in Lagos, two editorial staff of THISDAY Newspapers carted laurels for their contribution to security and judiciary

E

xcitement reigned supreme inAmorka town, a border community betwern Anambra and Imo States, when it’s sons and daughters gathered to celebrate their annual New Yam Festival. The traditional ruler of the community Igwe K.O Obiriolemgbe, who was accompanied by prominent traditional rulers from Anambra State to his palace to kickstart the event, wore a long sparkling gold attire, while his cabinet members wore bright red clothes. Top government functionaries, political gladiators, indigenes of the community, friends and well wishers attended the event. Some of the traditional rulers at the event were Igwe of Nnewi, HRH Igwe Keneth O The National Crime Watch Award night might have come and gone but the memory does linger, especially in the minds of the two members of the editorial team of THISDAY Newspaper. The reason is not far-fetched, the paper was the highest winner of the night as it carted two awards in the crime and judiciary categories. While Chiemelie Ezeobi, the Group Features Editor for THISDAY Newspaper, comprising the features, crime, defence, metro and health desks, carted away the Investigative Female Crime Editor of the Year 2018, the Best Judiciary Correspondent of the Year 2018, was awarded to AkintundeAkinwale, also of THISDAYNewspaper. In her speech, Ezeobi lauded the organisers as the nomination itself came and surprise. According to her, having covered the crime and allied beats for over eight years, each laurel that comes in the line of reporting was one to be cherished as it depicts hardwork and sacrifice. Nonetheless, she pledged to work harder in the male-dominated beat despite having been promoted to an editor in June this year. According to her, once a reporter, always a reporter. She also commended THISDAY Newspaper for giving her the platform as a rookie reporter fresh from NYSC to cover crime and security beat, adding that they also took it a notch further and also appointed her to head a desk as a female. For Akinwale who is the second term running Chairman of the National Association of Judiciary Correspondent (NAJUC), it was a pleasant surprise to have been nominated too. Stating that he was not even aware that someone somewhere was watching his deeds, he said this was his first award, adding that it will push him to do more. He however acknowledged his media platform, THISDAY for giving him the space to excel. The duo were presented their awards by Captain Joseph Nnodim, the representative of the Chairman of the event, Wale Olaoye of Halogen Security Limited. Tagged the National Crime Watch Awards 2018: Celebrating 15 years of pioneering crime reporting in Nigeria, the event started off with a red carpet at the conference room of the Murtala MuhammedAirport in Ikeja, Lagos.After the opening prayer and National Anthem, the Publisher National Crime Watch, Mr. Tony Okpe took to the podium to deliver his welcome address, which was followed with the keynote address by Mr. Frank Oshanugor. In between the comic and musical performances, the award edition was unveiled leading to the cutting of the 15th anniversary cake. The highlight of the evening however was the official launch of the Tony Okpe Foundation, which is a budding passion of the publisher to reach out to inmates in prison. That soon set the tone for the event as professionals cutting across the media, judiciary and security were recognised for their dedication to duty. Top among the awardees were Justice Mojisola Dada, of the Special Offences Court, and Adenike Adeniyi-Coker of the Lagos State High Court Division, who were recognised as the National Crimewatch Judge of the Year 2018 and Outstanding Judicial Personality of the Year, respectively. Commending the latest edition of the magazine, Dada said, “I am elated as It is worthy to unveil the brain storming session of sleepless nights put into producing this beautiful publication too. It is really, highly commendable. The publisher is going to find a lot of support from God and man and Nigeria will be blessed for it.� Also, Coker in her brief speech noted that there has been lot of work put into the publication, adding that “they will grow from strength to strength, more support will come for his company and his family.� Other Award Winners Other journalists who bagged awards and recognition in different categories were Precious Igbonwelundu of The Nation Newspaper for the Investigative Reporter of the Year; Mr. Eugene Agha of Daily Trust Newspaper for Investigative Crime Editor of the Year; Prince Albert Akpor Uba,

Publisher, National Crime Watch Awards, Tony Okpe (third left) anked by a cross section of the awardees

Tun

H

me Chiemelie Ezeobi, the Group Features Editor for THISDAY Newspaper and her daughter, Adaife, receiving her award from Captain Joseph Nnodim

THISDAY Judiciary Correspondent, Akintunde Akinwale, also with his award

Publisher of Crimeworld Magazine for Editor-InChief/ CEO of the Year; Philomena Ngozi Oji, Editor- In-Chief/ CEO www. cornerstonewsng. com for Investigative News Digital Platform of the Year; Mr. Sunday Odita, The Guardian Newspaper as Most Influential Crime Editor; Mr. Frank Sochukwu Oshanugor, Editor-In-Chief, Security Express Magazine received a recognition award. Other awardees include Barrister Ene Sarah Unobe, Chief Executive Officer, International Centre For Human Non-Violence and Safety Awareness as Human Right Lawyer of the Year; CP Imohimi Oluwole Edgal, Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, as Man of the Year; DSP Abba Kyari, Commander Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of Inspector General of Police as Police Detective of the Year; DCP Muhammed Ali Ari, DC Operations,

Lagos State Police Command as Outstanding DCP Operations of the Year; CSP Chike Godwin Oti, Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer as State PPRO of the Year; CSPAkaninyene Etuk, OC Lagos Anti Cultism Squad as Anti Cultism Officer of the Year; CSP Rieninwa Philip, Coordinator IGP/IRT South West Nigeria Police Force, Lagos received Excellent Award in Crime Fighting; CSP Peter Gana, OC Lagos Federal Anti Robbery Squad, FSARS as Crime Burster of the Year; DSP Aduroja Akinola Olurotimi, OC ICT Unit, FSARS received Recognition Award Tracking Criminals Using ICT. Others include DSP Matilda Umaih, Lagos State Deputy Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Police Command received Most Resourceful Female Police of the Year; ACP Tunji Disu, Commander Lagos Rapid Response Squad, RRS, who received

Special Recognition Award for Crime Fighting; Mrs. Oluwakemi Adedeji, OC Lagos Police Human Right Unit, received Special Recognition Award. Other awardees include: Mr. Akinwunmi Lawal, Managing Director, Nigeria Police Force Microfinance Bank, PLC, as Microfinance Bank CEO of the Year; Wale Olaoye, MD/CEO Halogen Security Limited as CEO of the Year Private Security Company; Charles Aigbe, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications for Fidelity Bank, PLC received Special Recognition Award; Fidelity Bank, Security Support Bank of the Year;NPF Microfinance Bank PLC as Microfinance Bank of the Year; Shegatol Security Services Limited as Best Private Company of the Year and F’Square Security Services as Event Security of the Year.

T org tha gra it fr in a wit M had S mil Pas fath tim exe of h mo E Olu No Olu Mo H of t Ok loca H Sch Prim of h pre of h we com I into tion Col sch H end reg his Stu in s dog B the Kad soo Com from

THISDAYt FRIDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2018

41

40

F R I DAY Ëž NOVEMBER 9, 2018

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

N2.82trn to Hit Money Market in November Peter Uzoho FSDH Merchant Bank Plc has predicted that about N2.82 trillion coming from matured government securities and Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) are expected to hit the Nigerian money market this month. The bank also projected a total outflow of approximately N1.03 trillion from various sources, including government securities and statutory withdrawals, leading to a net inflow of about N1.79trn. The Head of Research and Strategy at FSDH Merchant Bank Limited, Mr. Ayodele Akinwunmi, while speaking on the firm’s latest monthly economic and financial market outlook report released recently. The report was titled: “Local Competitiveness: A Prerequisite for Inclusive Growth.� Presenting the highlight of the report, the Akinwunmi, reiterated the need for the diversification of the economy in order to drive inclusive growth and competitiveness. According to him, the

Nigerian economy has the potential to grow faster than the projection by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other organisation. He added: “Even though FSDH is of the opinion that the Nigerian economy has the potential to grow faster that the projection of the IMF, this can only happen where we have coordinated set of policies that will unleash the economy: paying attention to power, paying attention to our infrastructure, involving the private sector, paying attention to our education system, paying attention to adoption of information and communication technology (ICT), to ensure that we are not lagging behind in the fourth industrial revolution which is digital revolution. “We need to involve private sector operators in ensuring that we lay the foundation for a sustainable growth of the Nigerian economy and to diversify the revenue streams of the economy.� According to him, “the more we create local competitiveness to make our local economy attractive, the better for us.

“And it comes in various ways: in terms of infrastructure, in education, right policies to develop the right education skills training to make people employable, right health facilities.� Akinwunmi anticipated an uptick in inflation, to be, “driven by the escalation in price of food and account of the food shortage, the clash between herdsmen and farmers, the flooding issue that we had across the country. And maybe, if the minimum wage is approved for payment, it may likely have some little additional increase to it.� He noted that if the ongoing agitation for an increase in minimum wage is approved and it leads to upsurge in liquidity in the system, the Monetary Policy Committee may intervene by adjusting the Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) to soak the liquidity. On capital flight, Aknwunmi said: “The capital flight will continue to increase because of the increase in rates in developed countries, which we call a saving haven. And it’s putting a lot of pressure on foreign exchange.�

L-R: Executive Vice Chairman, Brentex Petroleum Services, Sani Abubakar; Chairman, Eximia Realty Company Limited, Bamitale Omole; Chairperson, NEPAD Business Group Nigeria/Special Guest of Honour, Dr. Nike Akande; Founder/CEO, Eximia Realty Company Limited, Hakeem Ogunniran; Dr. Iyabo Ogunniran; the Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle and Director, Faith Tuedor-Matthews, at the launch of Eximia Realty Company Limited in Lagos, yesterday

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

MARCH 2018

Shun Extravagance to Grow Wealth, Awosika Tasks Women Ernest Chinwo Ă“Ă˜ Ă™ĂœĂž Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂž The Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria (FBN), Mrs Ibukun Awosika, has challenged women in the country to shun extravagant lifestyle and unnecessary spending if they desired to grow their wealth. She said such discipline in financial management would help women grow their savings and invest in ventures that would secure their future. Awosika, made the remark in a capacity building programme entitled, “FirstGem Empowerment Programme’’ organised by FBN for women in Port Harcourt. She observed that some women spent more money on expensive things such as weave-ons, especially Brazilian hair; gold jewellery, clothing and others, urging them to cut down their spending and save money. She reminded women that they were assets to their households “because they are able to stand in on the day of hardship’’. She noted that some women could make money but did not understand the real management of money or have informed judgement on how to manage

money. Awosika, said some women could not even make efforts to make money on their own but relaxed because they had rich husbands. “The wife of a rich man is not a rich woman; she has a borrowed appearance. Also, the son of a rich man is not a rich man,� she cautioned, adding that was why when the rich husband died, the wife if lucky not to be thrown away by her husband’s relatives, would not know how to manage the wealth left by her husband. Awosika urged women to start wealth creation and shun being a wife who is a liability. She said they needed courage, resolve and strength of character as well as grit and grind in order to be relentless in their will to do their best in wealth creation. “If you want to be successful in building wealth, you must build the right circle of friends, who can set goals and come back together to check the rate of achievement, she advised women.� Also speaking, Mrs Subu Giwa-Amu of Brookstone Investment and Properties said the steps along real estate investment journey was to aspire, set target,

act, manage and diversify. She urged women not to invest in any business they did not understand and should not always jump at the first offer given to them. She also advised them not to wait for opportunities to come as there is a lot of opportunities around. Giwa-Amu added, “Start now but respect certain life principles, do not cheat so that you will be successful.� One of the participants, Mrs Meke Therazita, said she liked the lectures and hoped that women would try their best to improve and be self-dependent on their business as well as help their husbands. Another participant, Miss Juliana Masi, described the lecture as having great impact, saying she learnt a lot from it. She said that she had resolved to embark on real estate business. According to her, as a woman there’s a strong need for me to create wealth for myself and my children and of course to support my husband, I will not like him to always give me what I want. “I can be self-reliant, selfsustainable and FirstGem has given me a platform by building my capacity to do that and I am very grateful,� Masi said.

FG Plan Roadshow Ahead of $2.8bn Eurobond Sale Nigerian officials will go on a roadshow to London next week ahead of a planned $2.8 billion Eurobond sale this month, two banking sources told Reuters on Thursday. The roadshow, which is being organised by Citi and Standard Chartered, would run from November 12, for three days and be attended by Nigerian Finance Minister Zainab Ahmed. The Senate had last month approved the issuance of $2.786 billion from the International Capital Market to partly finance

the 2018 budget. This was sequel to the presentation at plenary of the report on the implementation of the new external capital raising of $2.786 billion from the International Capital Market approved in the 2018 Act by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts, Senator Shehu Sani. In his presentation, Sani had said the committee emphasised the need for the federal government to reduce its request for more external borrowing “and source for

other means of generating revenue internally�. The Senate also observed that the issuance of the bonds will contribute to the implementation of the country’s Debt Management Strategy. The Director General, Debt Management Office, Ms. Patience Oniha, had explained that in absolute term, Nigeria’s debt stock is not too high, saying “the problem is that we need more revenues so that we are not using a large part of our revenue to service debt.�

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)

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 Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

March 2018

Inter-Bank Call Rate

15.16

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

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

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

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS ATWEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 7, 2018

The price of OPEC basket of ďŹ fteen crudes stood at $70.63 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $70.88 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

F R I DAY ˾ NOVEMBER 9, 2018

MARKET NEWS

Unity Bank Leads Gainers as Market Rebounds on Bargain Hunting Goddy Egene The Nigerian capital market rebounded yesterday as investors embarked on bargain hunting in some stocks. Owing to this, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index appreciated by 0.37 per cent to close at 32,228.50, compared with the depreciation of 0.14 per cent recorded the previous day. The appreciation recorded in

the share prices of companies such as Union Bank, Nestle, GT Bank, Zenith Bank and FBN Holdings were mainly responsible for the gain recorded in the index. In all, 19 stocks appreciated compared with 15 decliners. However, Unity Bank Plc led the price gainers with 9.2 per cent trailed by Union Bank with 8.2 per cent. With the gain recorded by Unity Bank, the bank’s share has fully recovered

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R

DEALS

losses witnessed last week. The stock suffered weak demand last week as investors reacted to its suspension by the NSE for non-submission of financial results for 2017 financial year and 2018 nine months financials. But day after the suspension, the bank released its 2017 results and reported a total de-risking of its balance sheet, ridding the bank of toxic legacy assets and paving the way for

S E C U R I T I E S

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

significantly improved return on shareholder value in the coming years. According to the 2017 annual report of the bank, Unity Bank successfully wrote off a total of N16 billion, being Goodwill that arose from legacy merger issues. This one-off derisking strategy that has cleaned up the bank’s books impacted the bottomline leading to a net loss of N14.2 billion. “The

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

courageous action taken by the Bank towards cleaning up the observed issues thus resulted in a negative capital base but also gave birth to a leaner, smarter and dynamic Bank with a healthy Balance Sheet,” the bank said. To sustain the new momentum and return to better performance in the Nigerian market, the bank said it has been making significant progress in its

O F

ongoing capital raising exercise. The bank noted that that with a 0 per cent nonperforming loans portfolio and the now enhanced credit management process, Unity Bank has solved its debilitating legacy problems and will move more sure-footedly towards sustained revenue and profits growth, while capital adequacy is expected to rise above the regulatory minimum after the capital raising exercise.

0 7 / 1 1 / 2 0 1 8 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

˾ FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2018

44

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ThisDay Afrinvest Index Gains 61bps Yesterday, the ThisDay Afrinvest index gained 61bps to

71(%0)16%/ )4*240%1') )64-'5 *24 $ ! 1()9

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45

˾ FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2018

MARKET NEWS

IAPM Boss, Olashore, Advisers on Stock Market Investment Goddy Egene

Investors who are still being discouraged from the capital market because of its current bearish nature and uncertainty have been assured that the market would recover and deliver good returns. The President, Association of Investment Advisers and Portfolio Managers (IAPM), Prince Abimbola Olashore, gave the assurance at a press briefing

on the association’s 2018 forum slated for November 14 in Lagos. Olashore said the stock market will remain for a long time, explaining that it is the nature of stock markets to have cycles of boom and bust. “The stock market will remain for a long time. It will come back but the question is that when it comes back what kind of environment our investors will come into. The IAPM is now positioning on the area of capacity

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

building and advocacy. On the other hand, the Corporate and Individual Investment Advisers (CIIA), which is an affiliate of IAPM, is working on areas of ethics and professional conduct of members. We are positioning ourselves, trying to ensure that when the market comes back and investors return, they meet a structure that will engender confidence and when next there is a downturn, it won’t be an issue of the players being

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 0711-2018, unless otherwise stated.

unprofessional,” he said. The IAPM boss noted that not much education was going on the past and people assumed and forgot that capital market was not for short term investors, saying that people should realise that the market is for long term investors. “We are hoping that going forward, it will be a different landscape and hopefully the IAPM and CIIA will have big roles to play. One from the CIIA looking after the operators and

ensure that the standards which they are operating are higher and they will be held accountable for their actions and we at IAPM ensure that more education and capacity building are done,” he said. Speaking on the forum, he said the theme for this year is: The Future of Investment Advisory Services in Nigeria.” Olashore said that the guest speaker will be Managing Director of Chapelhill Denham Group Limited and Chairman of Lafarge

Africa Plc, Mr. Mobolaji Balogun. “Attendees are expected from various sectors of the financial economy with key functionaries such as the acting Director General of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Ms. Mary Uduk, who is the special guest of honour. Chairman, Continental Reinsurance Plc and Alexander Forbes Consulting Actuaries Nigeria Limited, Chaief Ajiboal Ogunsola will be the chairman of the occasion,” he 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 162.49 163.61 -8.43% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 11.00% Nigeria International Debt Fund 272.50 273.79 17.85% 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 0.97% ACAP Income Funds 0.62 0.62 6.36% 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 12.45% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.20 2.21 -4.49% 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 133.40 134.33 -12.06% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.96% 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 10.96% Paramount Equity Fund 11.61 11.91 4.72% Women's Investment Fund 101.75 104.36 1.11% 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 12.12% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 99.42 99.51 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 98.96 99.30 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.83% Coronation Balanced Fund Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.09 1.12 5.37% 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 N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B N/A N/A N/A FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,160.39 1,161.12 10.67% FBN Heritage Fund 143.06 144.27 2.57% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.48% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional $113.60 $113.83 4.32% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail $113.35 $113.63 4.20% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 146.90 148.97 -7.55% 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 1.23 1.24 -5.24% Legacy Debt Fund 3.20 3.20 10.60% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.02 1.02 1.71% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 2,972.56 3,001.44 -0.44% Coral Income Fund 2,743.98 2,743.98 12.08% 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 11.78% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 105.39 105.60 4.92% 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 100.00 100.00 11.88%

Vantage Balanced Fund 2.15 2.17 1.98% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 14.75% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 122.38 122.60 6.34% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.19 1.21 4.09% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,080.12 1,080.12 11.92% 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 11.26 11.36 -13.04% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 11.54% 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 1.33 1.35 11.64% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.00 12.06 8.70% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.02% 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 126.91 127.27 -2.18% 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 1.67 1.67 12.61% 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 2,322.47 2,337.59 5.67% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 186.85 186.85 7.31% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.97 0.98 -3.47% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 243.89 243.93 13.01% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 161.33 163.16 -9.91% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 11.53% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 8,685.67 8,792.64 -8.69% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.10 1.10 6.38% 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 1.16 1.17 -2.13% United Capital Bond Fund 1.57 1.57 9.70% United Capital Equity Fund 0.70 0.71 -7.58% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.50% United Capital Eurobond Fund 106.04 106.04 5.97% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.08 1.09 4.14% 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 11.17 11.33 -7.84% Zenith Ethical Fund 12.05 12.15 -6.82% Zenith Income Fund 20.45 20.45 10.84% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.78%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

9.00 139.11 51.55

-20.11% 5.02% 1.42%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

10.48 117.18 91.02

10.58 119.67 92.73

-11.49% -17.96% -16.68%

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 Griffin 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

4.14 7.19 14.97 13.55 143.08

4.18 7.27 15.07 13.75 145.08

-12.64% -24.79% -14.23% -30.97% 6.36%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

107.13

17.03%

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.

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

46

FOREIGN/DIPLOMATIC AFFAIRS

Gunman Kills 12 in California Bar Packed with Students A gunman killed 12 people, including a police officer, when he opened fire in a country music bar packed with college students in California, officials and witnesses said Thursday. Police said the gunman was found dead inside the bar on the outskirts of Los Angeles although it was not immediately clear if he was killed by officers or shot himself. The local sheriff said that around a dozen other people

had been injured. He said the motive of the shooting and the identity of the gunman were not yet known. It was the second mass shooting in America in less than a fortnight. Witnesses said that the gunman, who was bearded and wore a black trenchcoat and glasses, threw several smoke grenades inside the Borderline Bar and Grill before he started shooting at around 11:20 pm on Wednesday night.

“It’s a horrific scene in there. There is blood everywhere,” Ventura County Sheriff Geoff Dean said at a pre-dawn press conference. “We have no idea if there is a terrorism link to this or not. As you know, these are ongoing investigations and that information will come out as soon as we are able to determine exactly who the suspect was and what motive he might have had for this horrific event.” “Nothing has led me to

believe or the FBI there is a terrorism link here. We certainly will look at that option.” Dean said that the dead police officer, who was named as Ron Helus and had been on the force for 29 years, was among the first on the scene. “They found 11 victims that had been killed,” said Dean of the first response unit before detailing that the death of Helus brought the toll to 12, not including the gunman.

Court Jails 65 Suspected IS Jihadists in Egypt An Egyptian court on Thursday sentenced 65 suspected Islamic State group jihadists to between five years and life in prison for setting up a “terrorist cell”, a court official said. The alleged cell had members in various parts of impoverished upper Egypt and was led by an “emir” Mostafa Ahmed Abdelaal. The militants, charged in 2017, had “set up a terrorist cell in Upper Egypt which declared allegiance to (IS leader) Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi”,

the court official said. The court sentenced 18 of the defendants to life terms (25 years) and another 41 to 15-year prison terms. It also handed six minors five years each in jail and acquitted two suspects. The sentences can be appealed. Since Egypt’s military toppled Islamist president Mohamed Morsi in 2014, the government and security forces have cracked down hard on secular opposition and Islamist extremism.

The Egyptian branch of IS has led an insurgency in North Sinai and carried out attacks across the country. Egypt’s army launched a major offensive in February dubbed “Sinai 2018” to dislodge the insurgents from the peninsula. More than 450 suspected jihadists and around 30 Egyptian soldiers have been killed since the offensive began, the army said in October. Jihadist attacks in recent years have killed hundreds

of police, soldiers and civilians. IS claimed responsibility for an attack last week against Egyptian Christians in Minya province, which killed six Copts and one Anglican. Egyptian courts have convicted many suspected jihadists in mass trials which have been criticised by human rights groups. An Egyptian military court on Wednesday sentenced eight IS members to death for a deadly attack against the army in 2016, officials said.

Lion Air Jet in Another Accident, A Week After Deadly Crasha A Lion Air passenger jetunderway involved in another accident — just a week after a plane from the Indonesian airline crashed with the loss of all 189 people on board. In the latest incident, the jet clipped a pole as it taxied to the runway at Bengkulu airport on Sumatra island ahead of its flight to Jakarta. The plane’s left wing was visibly damaged, forcing all

passengers to disembark. They were flown to the capital later Wednesday evening aboard a different aircraft. Lion Air spokesman Danang Prihantoro said all 143 passengers and seven crew were safe. “Lion Air apologises to all passengers for any inconvenience… it has sent a team to inspect the aircraft,” the spokesman said. The transport ministry said

it would launch an immediate investigation. “The plane and the pilot have been grounded for investigation,” said Pramintohadi Sukarno, a senior ministry official. The accident happened just 10 days after a Lion Air Boeing 737-Max 8 plane plunged into the Java Sea minutes after takeoff from Jakarta to Pangkal Pinang city. All 189 people on

board were killed and the Indonesian National Transportation Safety Committee has said that flight recorder data has so far revealed the plane’s airspeed indicator had not been working properly on its last four journeys, including on the fatal flight. But the preliminary result of the investigation will only be known at the end of November.

Press Freedom Advocates Freed White House Bars CNN After Detention in Tanzania Reporter after Verbal Duel Two press freedom advocates working with the Tanzanian with Trump taken from their hotel in immigration authority detained Tanzania by security officers have been released, a South African government official said Thursday. South African journalist Angela Quintal, Africa programme coordinator for the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), and her Kenyan colleague Muthoki Mumo had been detained by authorities on Wednesday without explanation. However, South African foreign ministry spokesman Ndivhuwo Mabaya told AFP on Thursday that “they were both released”. Mabaya said their release came “after a lot of calls” but that neither woman had been given back their passport. “We need to understand the circumstances… (we) must get all the facts in order to engage the Tanzanian authorities,” Mabaya said. He added that both women were currently at the South African embassy in Tanzania’s economic capital Dar es Salaam. CPJ said that Quintal, a former editor of South Africa’s Mail and Guardian newspaper, and Mumo were legally in Tanzania “on a reporting mission” when they were detained.“Officers who identified themselves as

Quintal and Mumo in their hotel room in Dar es Salaam,” the CPJ said in a statement. “The officials searched the pair’s belongings and would not return their passports when asked. Quintal and Mumo were then escorted from the hotel and… taken to an unknown location.” Soon after their detention, an uncharacteristic tweet was sent from Quintal’s Twitter account reading “God is great we are released going back to our hotel”, raising fears that someone had accessed her electronic devices. “The tweet by @ angelaquintal was not sent by her,” her niece Genevieve Quintal, also a journalist, wrote. “This shows someone is using her account.” Both Quintal and Mumo’s social media accounts have since been deactivated. Tanzania government spokesman Hassan Abbasi said he did not know why the two had been taken for questioning. “My office is monitoring why the so-called CPJ journalists were allowed to enter the country but later were interviewed by immigration and released,” he said on Twitter.

The White House on Wednesday suspended the press pass of a CNN reporter who sparred with Donald Trump at a news conference, during which the president branded him the “enemy of the people.” A visibly angry Trump called reporter Jim Acosta a “rude, terrible person,” after the CNN White House correspondent refused the president’s orders to sit down and yield the microphone during the conference one day after the US midterm election. “The White House is suspending the hard pass of the reporter involved until further notice,” said White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders hours later, referring to Acosta, who then tweeted that he had been denied White House entry. The heated exchange began after Acosta clung to the microphone and persisted with questions about the president’s repeated and angry denunciation of a caravan of poor Central American migrants making their way through Mexico to the US border. He asked Trump why he has characterized it as an invasion. Trump said “that’s enough!”

and a White House intern tried in vain to take the microphone from the CNN journalist. “President Trump believes in a free press and expects and welcomes tough questions of him and his Administration,” Sanders said in her statement. “We will, however, never tolerate a reporter placing his hands on a young woman just trying to do her job as a White House intern. This conduct is absolutely unacceptable,” she said. Acosta shot back at the accusation of misconduct, tweeting “this is a lie” — as his network and a number of Washington journalists who had been at the press conference voiced support for him and denied the White House allegations that he touched the intern. “Secretary Sanders lied,” CNN said in a statement, saying the press pass suspension was “done in retaliation for challenging questions.” Sanders “provided fraudulent accusations and cited an incident that never happened,” the US cable network said. “This unprecedented decision is a threat to our democracy and the country deserves better.

Matt Wennerstron, a 20-year-old college student and regular at the bar in the upscale Thousand Oaks suburb, said the shooter fired a short-barreled pistol that apparently had a 10-15 round magazine. “It was just semi-automatic, as many shots as he could pull,” he told journalists. “Then, when (he) started to reload, that’s when we got people out of there and I didn’t look back.” He said he and others smashed their way out of the bar onto a balcony and then jumped down to safety. “One bar stool and straight through a window,” he told reporters.

TV footage showed SWAT teams surrounding the bar, with distraught revelers milling around and using their cell phones as lights from police cars flashed. Jasmin Alexander, who was part of a group of around 15 friends at the bar, said there was chaos and confusion inside when the shots first rang out. “It was a normal Wednesday. We were just at the bar, having fun, dancing,” she told reporters after escaping the shooting. “All of a sudden we heard the ‘bang, bang’ of the gunshots and it just started going crazy and people were pushing.

CHANGE OF NAME

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I formerly known and addressed as ADESOLA OLUDOLAPO ODUWOLE, now wish to be known and addressed as MS ADESOLA ODUNAYO ODUWOLE. All documents carrying both names remain valid. The general public should take note. I formerly known and addressed as / &KZD >>z KDKEͳ OGUDO OPEYEMI LIZZY, now wish to be known and addressed as KDKE:/ ͳK'h K OPEYEMI LIZZY. All formal documents names remain valid. Guaranty Trust Bank and General Public Take note I, formerly known and addressed as UBEK NORA JOSEPH, now wish to be known and addressed as AGBAKHAMEN NORA NKOYO. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

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WORLD OF ISLAM

Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

The Concept of Justice in Islam - 3 Hebba Choudhry, Mubashir Hussain/ IslamiCity/Muslim Matters (continued from last week) How to Judge Between People?

I

n Surah S’ad, verses 20 – 26, Allah (swt) tells us the story of Daawud (as), and when Allah tested him to see how he would judge between two people. We can take good lesson from this story. Allah (swt) says: “We made his (Daawud’s) kingdom strong, and gave him wisdom, and sound judgment in speech and decision.” (Surah S’ad: 20) “Has the story of the disputants reached you? When they climbed over the wall of the private chamber.” (Surah S’ad: 21) “When they entered in upon Daawud, he was terrified of them. They said, “Fear not. (We are) two disputants, one of whom has wronged the other. Therefore, judge between us with truth, and treat us not with injustice, and guide us to the Right Way.” (Surah S’ad: 22) “Verily, this my brother has ninety-nine ewes, while I have (only) one ewe, and he says: “Hand it over to me, and he overpowered me in speech.” (Surah S’ad: 23) “Daawud said, (immediately without listening to the opponent): “He has wronged you in demanding your ewe in addition to his ewes. And verily, many partners oppress one another, except those who believe and do righteous good deeds, and they are few.” And Daawud realized that We have tried him, and he sought forgiveness from his Lord, and he fell down in prostration, and turned (to Allah) in repentance.” (Surah S’ad: 24) “So We forgave him for that, and verily, for him is a near access to Us, and a good place of (final) return (Paradise).” (Surah S’ad: 25) “Oh Daawud! Verily, We have placed you a successor on the earth; so judge you between men in truth (and justice), and follow not your desire – for it will mislead you from the path of Allah. Verily, those who wander astray from the path of Allah (shall) have a severe torment, because they forgot the Day of Reckoning.” (Surah S’ad: 26) We learn from these ayaat the importance of hearing both sides of the story before passing any judgment between two people. Sometimes, the truth is not spoken by one party, and the one who is judging can get misled without hearing the voice of other side. Allah (swt) tested Daawud (as) by sending him two disputants. When Daawud (as) heard the story from one side, he passed his judgment, without realizing that he should have heard what the other person had to say first. He then realized his mistake and turned to Allah in repentance. In order to pass a fair judgment, one must listen to both parties, evaluate the situation, and then, come to a conclusion. This is a fundamental crux for judging between two or more people or groups. If we just turn our head around and see, we will find numerous examples at an individual and societal level and also at national and inter-national level where this fundamental principle is violated. People who Strive to Establish Justice We live in a world where there are people who commit crimes and create chaos in society. There are people who commit thefts. There are people who vandalize cities. There are people who torment others. There are people who are not fair and just when it comes to their dealings with people. Often times, they get away with their wrongdoings. When so much wrong exists, sometimes, seeing the good in society can become difficult. We find ourselves wondering, “There were just Prophets and Messengers sent by Allah in the past. Are there not any just people today?” By the Mercy of Allah (swt), there are always some people out there in this world who have the taqwa of Allah (swt), and will judge between people with justice. Allah says in Surah Al-A’raf, verse 181: “And of those whom We have created, there is a community who guides (others) with the truth, and establishes justice therewith.” (Al-A’raf: 181) Let’s take a brief tangent here. We now know that there will always be a community who guides others to the truth, and establishes justice with Allah’s guidance. A question might arise from this. What do we do when those people are not in authority? In today’s world, rulers strive for power and fame, and it may be impossible to find a ruler who establishes the law of justice based on the guidelines of our Creator. What do we do in this situation? The answer is in Surah Al-Asr. Allah says:

“Verily Man is in loss. Except those who have Faith, and do righteous deeds, and (join together) in the mutual teaching of Truth, and of Patience and Constancy.” (Al-Asr: 3 – 4) These ayaat tell us that mankind is lost. Only those who have true faith in Allah, do righteous deeds, and join together in the mutual teaching of truth, and of patience have saved themselves from this loss. The wisdom behind having a Khalifah in Islam to rule us is that we always have an authority that will stand for the truth, and rule people with justice in accordance to Allah’s Commands. Unfortunately, we do not have a Khalifah in this day and age. Often times, there are situations that need to be dealt with justly on a higher level, and our leaders are not willing to take that step. When we ourselves are not capable of taking the lead of establishing justice at an upper level, what can we do? We should always stick to the truth, and have patience. We must do our part in trying to bring about a change, but until that change comes, we must be patient. Patience is the key to success. The Ultimate Justice As we discussed earlier, there are times when people do wrong in this world and get away with it. Sometimes, criminals commit crimes, and no one brings them to account. There are times when wrongdoers commit their evil deeds in the darkness of night, and no one witnesses their crime, other than their Creator. As Allah Himself created the balance of justice as His law in this world, Allah will not allow any injustice to happen, without bringing that person to account. Those matters which are not resolved in this world, Allah (swt) will deal with them in the hereafter…on the Day of Judgment. Every one of us was created by Allah, and every one of us will return to Him for final judgment. Allah says in the Quran: “And We shall set up Balance of justice on the Day of Resurrection, then none will be dealt with unjustly in anything. And if there be the weight of a mustard seed, We will bring it. And Sufficient are We to take account.” (Al-Anbiya: 47) Here, Allah (swt) tells us that He will set up a balance of justice on the Day of Resurrection. On that day, no one will be dealt with unjustly. If there is a matter that will be as small as the weight of a mustard seed, Allah (swt) in His Manifest Wisdom will take account of it. Allah will be our Judge. Allah (swt) has prepared a great reward for those who lived their lives in righteousness, worshipping Him, and obeying His Commands, and doing good deeds: “And whoever does righteous deeds, male or female, and is a (true) believer, such will enter Paradise, and not the least injustice, even to the size of a ‘Naqira’ [speck on the back of a date stone], will be done to them.” (An-Nisa: 124) On the other hand, those who did wrong in this world will be punished severely on that day: “And the Book (one’s Record) will be placed (in the right hand for a believer in the Oneness of Allah, and in the left hand for a disbeliever in the Oneness of Allah), and you will see the ‘Mujrimun’ (criminals, polytheists, sinners), fearful of that which is (recorded) therein. They will say: “Woe to us! What sort of Book is this that leaves neither a small thing nor a big thing, but has recorded it with numbers!” And they will find all that they did placed before them, and your Lord treats no one with injustice.” (Al-Kahf: 49) Remember that the greatest injustice in the sight of Allah is shirk. There is no forgiveness for those who live their lives committing shirk and die in that state. For such people, the punishment after judgment will be very severe. “Behold, Luqman said to his son by way of instruction: “O my son! Join not in worship (others) with Allah. For false worship is indeed the greatest injustice.” (Surah Luqman: 13) When Allah is the Judge, who can dare try to get away with their crimes and evil doings? They will never be able to do that. Truly Allah is the Best and Most Wise of all Judges. “Is not Allah the wisest of Judges?” (Surah At-Tin: 8) And Allah knows Best. We ask Allah to make us amongst those who always stand firmly on the truth, for justice. We ask Allah to forgive us for our mistakes, and make us amongst the successful ones, on that day when He (swt) will bring us all to account, and every soul will be dealt with in complete justice, and rewarded with only that which they earned with their own hands. Ameen. Concluded.

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NEWSEXTRA

House Accuses Osinbajo of Illegal Approval of N5.8bn IDP Fund NEMA rejects report Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has been indicted over alleged illegal approval of a mismanaged N5.8 billion North East Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) intervention fund. House Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness chaired by Hon. Ali Isa, in its report yesterday noted that in contravention of constitutional provisions, Osinbajo approved the release of the sum of N5, 865, 671, 939.26 in June 2017 from the Consolidated Revenue Fund

Lawmakers to investigate party primaries

Account and the money was mismanaged by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). But in a swift reaction, NEMA yesterday rejected the report of the lawmakers, which indicted it of poor management of relief items meant for 16 states. NEMA argued that some of the findings and conclusions presented by the House Committee did not reflect the facts and documents placed before it by NEMA. This is coming as the House has resolved to investigate the conduct of the last primary

elections conducted by the various political parties. The recommendations of the Investigative hearing on the violation of public trust in the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) were adopted by the House of Representatives after it was considered in the committee of the whole. According to the House, the release of the fund for food security in the North-east contravenes Section 80(4) of the 1999 constitution as amended which states that: “No money shall be withdrawn from the Consolidated Revenue Fund

or any other public fund of the federation, except in the manner prescribed by the National Assembly.” The lawmakers also alleged that it breached the provision that the National Assembly must approve all issuance of Eurobond from which the Minister of Finance and the Accountant General of the Federation directed the Central Bank of Nigeria to pay. The committee also called for the dismissal and prosecution of the Director-General of NEMA, Mr. Mustapha Maihaja, over allegations of fraud,

corruption and embezzlement of N33 billion Emergency Intervention Fund, as well as all the government officials involvement in the approval, processing, release and diversion of the fund. Meanwhile, NEMA yesterday rejected the report of the lawmakers, which indicted it of poor management of relief items meant for 16 states. NEMA argued that some of the findings and conclusions presented by the House Committee did not reflect the facts and documents placed before it by NEMA. “We were shocked to hear

some of the findings and conclusions presented by the Committee on the issues, which did not reflect the facts and documents placed before it by NEMA,” the agency said in a statement last night.. “On the Port Clearance and Transportation of Emergency Food Assistance by Chinese Government, the federal government received a total of 6,779 metric tonnes of rice for IDPs in the North East as donation by the Chinese Government. “This amounted to 271 containers, which arrived Apapa Ports between June and October 2017.

FG Explains Temporary Suspension of National Carrier

Court Halts IG from Proscribing Benue Livestock Guards

Chinedu Eze and Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

A High Court sitting in Makurdi, Benue State capital, yesterday halted the Inspector General of Police (IG) and the Benue State Commissioner of Police from prohibiting or shutting down offices of the Benue State Livestock Guards in any part of the State. Justice Austine Ityonyiman, who presided over the court also in the interim order restrained the IG and the Benue State Commissioner of Police from preventing officers of the livestock guards from

The federal goverment yesterday explained that the national carrier which was earlier billed to kick off in December was suspended temporarily because the process to actualise it was delayed. The Minister of State for Aviation, Hadi Sirika, has also also stated that Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will start bearing arms within the next three months.

The government said the transaction advisers did not complete the process on modalities on the ownership of the new airline in time. Sirika who made this known yesterday, hinted that, in recent months, several misinformation, factual errors, insinuations and fabrications have been peddled in both social and print media on the project. He informed that, Lufthansa, which was the first approved transaction adviser was rejected due to its outrageous demands

which included opening an escrow account, refusal to pay tax and demand for 75 percent up front payment. Sirika who spoke yesterday at the 5th aviation stakeholders’ forum in Abuja, also disclosed that another major factor that stalled the process was the inability of the federal government to provide sovereign guarantee for the procurement of 30 airplanes estimated at $300 million to be paid in installment till 2020.

carrying out their functions of implementing the state’s anti-open law, pending the determination of the motion on notice brought before the court. The Benue State Government through its counsel, Douglas Pepe, had prayed the court to restrain the Nigerian Police whom he stated where acting outside the scope of their constitutional mandate and the court granted the request. Pepe had argued that

the livestock guards was a creation of the law and the body was carrying out its functions as stipulated by the legislation establishing it. The judge after listening to the argument of Pepe, and carefully perusing through the affidavit in support of the motion, upheld the counsel’s application pending the determination of the motion on notice. The matter has been adjourned to November 23, for hearing.

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Buhari Declares State of Emergency on Water Sanitation Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday in Abuja declared a state of emergency on Nigeria’s water supply, sanitation and hygiene sector and advised state governments to do same. Making the declaration at the inauguration of the National Action Plan for Revitalisation of Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector at the State House Conference

Centre, the president said the declaration had become imperative if cases of highprevalence of water-borne diseases leading to preventable deaths in different parts of the country would be reduced. According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, Buhari directed government at all levels to redouble efforts and work towards meeting

Leah Sharibu: Don’t Pay Ransom to Boko Haram, CD Tells FG Kayode Fasua The Campaign for Democracy (CD) yesterday warned the federal government against paying any ransom to secure the release of Leah Sharibu, the only remaining student of Girls Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe State, that is still being held by the Boko Haram insurgents. This is even as a newly inaugurated body for student theologians in Nigeria also pleaded with the European Union, the United States and the United Kingdom, to team up with the federal government and free Leah from captivity. The CD Secretary General, Pastor Ifeanyi Odili, in an interview with THISDAY, said the body had to caution the FG against the ransom-payment option, following a recent report that the insurgents were demanding an N100bn ransom. According to him, it is not politically expedient for the government to pay ransom before the girl is released, as this would create a wrong impression before the international community that Nigeria is a trade partner with terrorists. “It is not politically expedient for the federal government to pay ransom. And by the way, who are they paying the ransom to? Who is collecting the money

the nation’s water supply and sanitation needs. He also said the president described statistics on open defecation, access to pipe-borne water services and sanitation in the country as ‘’disturbing,’’ warning that henceforth, the federal government’s support to state governments will be based on their commitment to implement the National WASH Action Plan in their respective states and to end open defecation by 2025. ‘’Access to piped water services which was 32 percent

in 1990 has declined to seven percent in 2015; access to improved sanitation has also decreased from 38 per cent in 1990 to 29 per cent in 2015. ‘’Our country now ranks No 2 in the global rating on Open Defecation as about 25 per cent of our population are practising open defecation. “WASH services at the rural areas are unsustainable as 46 per cent of all water schemes are non-functional, and the share of our spending on WASH sector has been declining from 0.70 per cent of the GDP in 1990

to about 0.27 per cent in 2015 which is far below the 0.70 per cent at the West African regional level,’’ he was quoted as as saying. According to the statement, the president used the occasion, which it said was attended by state government representatives and development partners, to reiterate that the provision of potable water supply, adequate sanitation and hygiene are primarily the responsibilities of state and local governments. ‘’However, these are not

being given the required attention judging from the high prevalence of waterborne diseases that are being reported in different parts of the country. We cannot and will not continue to allow these preventable occurrences to decimate our population,’’ he was further quoted. It also said Buhari told the gathering that he was aware that Nigeria did not meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) targets for water supply and sanitation which ended in 2015.

when the federal government has already professed that the Boko Haram people are faceless characters? So if they now choose to pay ransom, are they paying to ghosts?” Odili added, “Besides, this will send a wrong signal to the international community that Nigeria is now a trade partner with terrorist groups and as such, can no longer be trusted in the global fight against terrorism. “When Osama bin Laden and his Al Qaeda group were terrorising the world, why didn’t the United States Government pay ransom to them, even for the people they kidnapped? “Indeed, paying ransom is an indictment on our military; that they are weak and incapable of facing the terrorists in battle, and of course, a damnation of the intelligence gathering ability of other security outfits.” On humanitarian consi- L-R, Chief Executive Officer, Ikeja Electric, Dr. Anthony Youdeowei; Chairman, Senate Committee on Power, Steel Development and deration that the ransom option Metallurgy, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe, and committee member, Senator Adamu Aliero, during the oversight visit of the Senate Committee to should be explored to make the hapless girl return home, Ikeja Electric Headquarters in Lagos…yesterday Odili quipped, “That lady has been kidnapped and that is the fact on ground, and only God can get her out. “If God does not want her However, a group, South goes to confirm allegations in the court of law. out, bring all the super powers Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Adedayo South Unity League (SSUL), that President Muhammadu While addressing a press or pay jaw-dropping ransom, Akinwale, Mercy Apollos in has cautioned the Department of Buhari is shielding him from conference yesterday in she would still not come Abuja and Adibe Emenyonu in State Service to exercise restraint prosecution for fear that his Abuja, the PDP insisted that Benin City out.” especially as the 2019 election investigation would implicate the trademoni programme by The Peoples Democratic Party draws near, noting that it has certain interests at the presidency the government was nothing but vote buying , stressing that the (PDP) has called on the National become expedient for the agency and the APC. “No! Nigerians are already party has consistently expressed Intelligence Agency (NIA) and to abstain from partisan politics. The main opposition party aware that Oshiomhole has its concern about that process. INTERPOL to help track down Ologbondiyan said, “We the National Chairman of the All said it is ludicrous that the APC, not denied his investigation Progressives Congress (APC), in its lying proclivities, believes including his reported confession have vehemently expressed through its letter of May 10 Adams Oshiomhole, believed that by dismissing Oshiomhole’s that the presidency was in the our dissatisfaction with this a “self-assessment exercise” to be on the run since his arrest as a rumour and aiding loop of all his actions. manner of vote buying and which usurps the powers of reported interrogation by the him to momentarily flee the “The PDP had always we commend the National the Nigerian Customs Service Department of State Services country, would succeed in cautioned Adams Oshiomhole Assembly for taking it up as to demand payment of import (DSS) over alleged corruption getting him off the DSS hook of his unbridled arrogance, a responsibility to challenge the duties on importation of physical charges. as well as sweeping the matter lust for power and alleged process and to investigate it. goods. Reacting to the removal of This is coming as a chieftain out of public discourse with its embezzlement of public funds MTN sought a declaration of the All Progressives Congress famished broom. for which he must surely have over 300, 000 ineligible voters that the AGF acted illegally (APC) and Director General of The party in a statement by his day in the hands of the law.” by the Independent National by usurping the powers of the the Voice of Nigeria (VON), its National Publicity Secretary, The PDP therefore demanded Electoral Commission (INEC) Federal Inland Revenue Service Mr. Osita Okechukwu, has Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan noted that APC and the Buhari from the voters’ register, (FIRS) to audit and demand asked Oshiomhole to resign that Oshiomhole’s swift Presidency must immediately Ologbondiyan said the electoral remittance of withholding and honourably to save the party flight out of the country, at produce Oshiomhole to face body should also deal with the value added taxes. from further embarrassment. the heat of the investigation investigation and prosecution issue of minor registrants. It is praying the court to hold that the purported selfassessment exercise instituted by the AGF via its May 10 letter is unknown to law, and therefore NCS, Comptroller Aliyu Saidu, and therefore has no monetary end user certificate and a 40ft null and void and of no effect Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt said the impounded goods value as regards duty payment”. container comprising car part, whatsoever. included rice and military According to the Area among others. It prayed for a declaration that The Nigeria Customs Service uniforms. Controller, “found in the Giving a comparative the AGF’s demand of the sums (NCS) has said it generated He listed some of the seized same 40-feet container are 15 analysis of the command’s N26,388,754,244.37 from duty is premised on a process that items to include: “1,070 25-litre bales of new, 80 rolls of water revenue profile, Saidu said is malicious, unreasonable and paid on imported goods from jerry cans of vegetable cooking hose, 10 cartons of singlet, 50 the command generated made on incorrect legal basis. August 16 till this month oil with DPV of N8,501,322; cartons of shoes, 207 cartons N62,593,334,451 between MTN prayed for an order through its Area II Command, 55 20-feet container of foreign of tiles, 15 bales of socks, five January and October, 2017 while Onne, Rivers State. vacating the AGF’s demand It said it also recorded 10 rice which contained 510 50kg sacks of ladies’ skirt and other it generated N68,331,473,662 letter for N242 billion and $1.3 seizures of prohibited items bags of rice, 1040 25-kg bags items with DPV of N4,682,021 in the corresponding period billion, and claimed N3 billion with duty paid value (DPV) of rice, 19,680 10-kg bags of used to conceal the military this year. general and exemplary damages, He also said the command of N543,958,740 within the rice with total DPV of N364, uniforms.” as well as legal costs. 746,762; and “a 40-feet container Other seized items, he was facilitating export trade in But, the AGF, in his same period. Addressing journalists comprising of 600 pairs of said, were 13,560 cartons of both oil and non-oil sector, and preliminary objection, argued that military camouflage uniforms, tomato paste with DPV of had so far generated through the plaintiff was statute-barred, yesterday at Onne in his 600 pairs of military caps, 600 N70,502,283; a container load export into National Export having not filed the suit within maiden outing since assumption pairs of military jungle boots: of 575 machetes with DPV of Supervision Scheme (NESS) three months from the date the of office on August 16, the all are totally prohibited items N21,201,500 imported with fake account a total of N1.42 billion. Controller, Area II Command, cause of action arose.

LET THERE BE LIGHT…

Corruption: PDP Urges NIA, DSS, Interpol to Track Oshiomhole

MTN Sues FG over $1.3bn Withholding Tax MTN Nigeria Communication Limited has filed a fresh suit at the Federal High Court in Lagos to challenge the legality of the $1.3 billion import duties and withholding tax demanded from it by the federal government. It is demanding N3billion general and exemplary damages and legal costs from the defendant. Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke yesterday adjourned the suit until December 3 for hearing after counsel confirmed that motions have been filed and served on parties. MTN, in the suit filed, is challenging the legality of the Attorney-General of the Federation’s assessment of its import duties, withholding tax and value added tax amounting to N242 billion and $1.3 billion. It is contending that the purported “revenue assets investigation” allegedly carried out by the federal government for the period of 2007 to last year, and its decision conveyed through the Office of the AGF by an August 20 letter, violates the provisions of Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution. The plaintiff sought a declaration that the AGF acted in excess of its powers by purporting to direct

Customs Seizes N543.9m Contraband from Onne Port

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Future of Africa Drowning in Mediterranean Sea, Ford Foundation Warns Segun James As more Nigerian youths continue to die on the Mediterrean Sea in their search for greener pastures in Europe, the West Africa Regional Director of the Ford Foundation, Mr. Innocent Chukwuma has raised the alarm that unless the country’s leadership do something about it immediately, the future of Africa may all perish in the sea. Chukwuma said this at a press conference to announce the unveiling of the book: ‘From Frying Pan to Fire: How African Migrants Risk Everything in Their Futile Search for a Better Life in Europe’, written by the Chairman of the Editorial Board of THSDAY Newspaper, Mr.

Olusegun Adeniyi which comes up on November 22 in Abuja. He said one of the compelling reasons for the exodus of the youths to Europe was the desperation to live up to expectation and peer influence. Chukwuma stressed that there is great contradiction between the personal aspiration of the youths and national aspiration, a schism which he said must be closed. The author, Adeniyi in a statement, lamented that in an Associated Press (AP) wire report, published in the Washington Post and many other major news outlets entitled, ‘56,800 Dead and Missing: The Hidden Toll of Migration,’ revealed how thousands of migrants have in the past four years remained

unaccounted for. “Barely counted in life, these migrants rarely register in death almost as if they never lived at all. A growing number of migrants have drowned, died in deserts or fallen prey to traffickers, leaving their families to wonder what on earth happened to them,” he quoted AP as reporting. Citing the report, Adeniyi said: “anonymous bodies of these unfortunate migrants, mostly from our continent, are filling cemeteries in South Africa, Italy, Greece and Libya. An Associated Press tally has documented more than 56,800 migrants dead or missing worldwide since 2014 - almost double the number found in the world’s only official attempt to try to count them, by the UN’s

International Organisation for Migration. “The AP came up with almost 28,300 additional dead or missing migrants by compiling information from other international groups, forensic records, missing persons reports, death records, and examining data from thousands of interviews with migrants”, he said. Adeniyi said as depressing as the story was, it did not even reflect the depth of the tragedy. “Sadly, even when immigration has become the defining political issue of the day in many Western countries, it is hardly ever discussed within the continent and certainly not in Nigeria. “Yet, amid shrinking opportunities and a distortion of information about life in Europe,

especially for undocumented immigrants, thousands of our young people have for years been embarking on desperate journeys that most often end in sorrow, tears and blood either in the Sahara Desert or on the Mediterranean Sea. “That is the focus of my coming book which captures the human drama of ‘irregular migration’ with compelling stories by those who have gone through the harrowing experiences. The book, I believe, will necessitate the conversation on migration and associated issues that we need to have in our national interest. “However, I am here this morning not only to announce that a date has been set for the

public presentation of the book but also to thank Ford Foundation for providing the financial resources that enabled me travel in the course of researching into the ugly phenomenon. The book published by Bookcraft in Ibadan, will be presented on November 22, 2018 at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja. Chair of the occasion, the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, will also speak on the issue of ‘irregular migration’ while Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, who has been battling the ‘Edo connection’ to the ugly drama, will present the book after a review by spoken word and performance poetry artist, Mr. Dike Chukwumerije.

Emmanuel Seeks Partnership with Investors to Boost Akwa Ibom Economy

DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS...

L-R: Executive Director of PIND Foundation, Dr. Dara Akala; Acting Mission Director USAID/Nigeria, Erin Holleran; Chief Whip, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Ekpeyong Bassey; Chief of Staff to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Malam Muhammad Bashir Mai Bornu at the Nigeria Strengthening Advocacy and Civic Engagement Project (SACE), close out event in Abuja....yesterday

BANKS’ APATHY OVER LENDING WORRIES EMEFIELE The IMF noted that progress on the much-needed domestic revenue mobilisation in the region has been elusive, remaining far short of SubSaharan Africa’s potential. “Under current mediumterm fiscal plans, the revenue gap estimated at 3-3.5 per cent of GDP on average across

countries , is not expected to be closed. In deed, domestic revenues are envisaged to rise by about two and half per cent of GDP in oil exporting countries and only by1/2 per cent of GDP in other countries. “The quality of the fiscal adjustment is also threatened by the re-emergence of

Kogi Govt Pays Political Aides, Abandons Civil Servants, Group Alleges Yekini Jimoh in Lokoja The Kogi Unity Frontiers, a non-governmental organisation, has carpeted the state government for allegedly paying political appointees three months salaries, while those in the civil service are waiting endlessly for their arrears. The group, in a statement signed yesterday by its Chairman and Secretary, Bala Tanke Usman and Joe Atimose respectively, described the continued delay in the payment of workers their arrears of salaries even with the Paris Club refunds and outstanding federal allocation received by the government, as unfair. The group said the promise by the government to pay

through table payment this week seemed unrealistic with the week almost winding up without action. It said: “Government should make good it promise to pay this week or come out with a clear statement of what it intends to do moving forward. We are calling on the government to note the high level of hardship facing Kogi workers. We frown at government’s preferential treatment for it few appointees over monies meant for civil servants, whose faith regarding their arrears still hangs in the balance.” Efforts to reach the director general of the governor’s media and strategy directorate for reaction proved abortive, as his number did not connect.

fuel subsidies. While most countries did pass lower oil prices through to domestic prices, most countries have not raised prices as much in response to the recent increase in international fuel prices”. However, speaking at the unveiling of the IMF report, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Deputy Governor, Economic Policy, Dr. Joseph Nnanna said the changing structure of the Nigerian economy has implications for inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI).

He said a stable macroeconomic environment was still critical for inflows into the domestic economy. Represented by CBN Director, Mr. Friday Oguche, he said contrary to received knowledge, equity rather than bond instrument remained the driver of portfolio inflows into the country. But he said it was still debatable whether domestic interest rate can reverse current trend of capital reversal in the context of political development.

The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has again called on investors to take advantage of the available manpower, natural resources, as well as peace and security in the state to invest and expand the state’s economy. Emmanuel made the call while exchanging views with the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi 11 who was on a courtesy visit at Government House, Uyo, the state capital. He noted that a strong economy gingers sustainable growth and enhances political development, noting that Akwa Ibom State is strategically located in the Gulf of Guinea, with a drought of 17.3 meters suitable for a deep seaport which is at the

fourth stage of it execution, stressing that the successful completion of the seaport would ease the constraints at the Lagos Apapa Port. Emmanuel said the state is blessed with the longest shoreline and that plans are underway for a logistic hub to be established in the state, adding that a cargo logistic terminal would be added at the Ibom International Airport to take care of the West African sub- region. The governor expressed appreciation to the Emir for the visit and his vision for the growth of the country’s economy and lauded the Emir’s advocacy for a national conversation that would aid in chatting a way forward for the economy of the country.

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Osinbajo Doing Advance Vote Buying, Southern, Middle Belt Leaders Allege Segun James The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) yesterday accused the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo of being the mastermind of a vote-buying scheme to influence Nigerians to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2019 general elections. They alleged that the “Tradermoni Scheme” in which the federal government “dole out cash to would-be voters is a vote influencing and

vote buying strategy of the government. The SMBLF in a communiqué issued after its meeting and signed by Mr. Yinka Odumakin, South West; Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, South-east; Senator Bassey Henshaw, SouthSouth and Dr. Isuwa Dogo, Middle Belt, expressed utter disappointment in Osinbajo for his continued corruption of the electorates in a funny scheme named “Tradermoni.” “We noted his odious outing with this corrupt act

shortly before the Osun State governorship election when he went to dole out cash to would -be voters and distributing forms in which beneficiaries were asked to fill in their PVC details and phone number. “A few days back he took the perverse scheme to Lagos accompanied by the Governor of Lagos and the APC governorship candidate in Lagos State, an act that totally betrayed the political manipulation of the polity with pecuniary tools. “It is rather unfortunate that a Professor and Senior Advocate

of Nigeria is not ashamed to be doing this open ‘see and buy’ ahead of elections while he continues to preach virtues when convenient.” They demanded the immediate suspension of this scheme in the manner the Vice President is going about it “as it shames the whole anti-corruption campaign of the administration. It is pure bribery of voters!” The SMBLF also condemned what it called terror in the residence of Deputy Senate President, Senator

Ike Ekweremadu, even as it condemned the irresponsible response of the Police to the terror visited on the home of Ekweramandu. The leaders accused the police of not responding to distress calls or visit the scene of crime several hours after the attackers struck. “We were shocked to see police spokesman concluding the incident was a burglary attack within a few hours of little or no investigation in the order the current IGP dismissed the arsonist attack that claimed

the lives of Kano REC and his family in 2015 as mere accident shortly after visiting the scene of crime. “With the invasion of the Senate by security operatives and the sealing of Ekweremadu’s home the day Senate President beat police cordon, the police are making inquiring minds to wonder if this was not a state terror. We strongly advise the police to stop behaving like a partisan outfit and embrace professionalism in handling matters like this.

Amosun Absolves Self from Oshiomhole’s Ordeal Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja Ogun State governor, lbikunle Amosun yesterday denied any involvement in the reported arrest of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Adams Oshiomhole. Amosun met with President Muhammadu Buhari in the State House behind closed doors. Amosun and his Imo State counterpart, Rochas Okorocha, have engaged Oshiomhole in a battle for supremacy over the latter’s decision to deny their anointed candidates tickets for the 2019 general election. After the meeting, Amosun was asked by State House correspondents if he had a hand in Oshiomhole’s current ordeal with the DSS. Responding, he said by the question, he was being conferred with oversight power over the embattled national chairman which he said was not within his jurisdiction. According to him, if there is any need for him to fight, he goes all out to slug it out with the person concerned without having to hand his battle to anyone. He said, “I think you are probably giving me an oversight role and I am not a security

person, so clearly I think that question will not be for me. “I don’t have to hide under a finger to fight. If there is need for me to put my views across, you know me by now that I will do it. Asked for his reaction to the report that Oshiomhole might have fled the country following his encounter with Department of State Services (DSS) at the weekend, Amosun said, “I have told you those things are beyond my pedigree and you are asking me questions that I am not well suited for. The one that I think I should talk about we have said it loud and clear that we don’t need to add any other thing.” Asked again on the reason for his visit to the State House, he said, “I always come like this and I know that you will want to ask me this and that and that is what you are doing, but clearly and talking seriously, I think that all that needs to be said. “I think all of you can attest to that, that has been said loud and clear and I think saying anything further would amount to probably sounding like a broken gramophone. I think I have said all that we need to say and we did it loud and clear.”

Fayemi Orders Revocation of Market Stalls Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti Following the inspection of facilities at the Ultra modern Oja Oba Market, Ado-Ekiti by Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi earlier this week, the governor has ordered revocation of allotted market stalls to prospective buyers. The market, which is almost 80 per cent completed was constructed by the administration of former Governor Ayodele Fayose. Before his exit on October 16, 2018, Fayose had in September allocated the market to buyers through balloting, which did not go down well with the incoming governor. A statement in Ado Ekiti by Special Adviser on Media to the governor, Yinka Oyebode, noted that structural evaluation of the complex shows that some considerable construction work would be required to fix the inherent structural defects which have made the building unsafe for use. Fayemi thereby ordered that the supervising ministries;

Ministries of Commerce, and Works, should refund the money to prospective buyers pending the time the market will be completed. The governor said it was not ideal to allocate the market to users when the project was yet to be completed. The statement said: “As this process would take some time, the governor has therefore directed that the process of allocation of shops be stopped immediately. “The Ministries of Works and Commerce are to work out a seamless process for the refund,” he said But Fayose, who reacted through his Media Aide, Lere Olayinka , said the governor should be ready to face the consequences of refund if truly he was prepared to carry out the action. Fayose said developers do allocate houses to buyers before commencement of building let alone a project that was near completion. “The penalty for revocation is payment of annual rental value for 50 years plus refund of coast of purchase.

40 HEARTY CHEERS…

L-R: Secretary Society of Occupational and Environmental Health Physicians of Nigeria (SOEHPON0, Dr. Uche Enumah; Vice President, Dr. Effiem Abbah; President, International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH), Dr. Jukka Takala; Assistant Secretary, (SOEHPON), Dr. Chinonye Nwañkwo; and President, Dr. Okon Akiba, during the 2018 SOEHPON conference as part of activities to mark its 40th Anniversary PHOTO: YOMI AKINYELE in Lagos... yesterday

Edo Govt Uncovers Illegal Revenue Collection Syndicate in Benin In strict compliance with the directive of the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on respect for law and order, the state government has arrested one Peter Okpame, a member of an illegal revenue collection syndicate operating in Koko-Oghara-Sapele-Warri park along Sapele Road in Benin City. The arrest followed a petition to Obaseki and the Edo State Internal Revenue Service over the operations of the syndicate in the area. Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security and Surveillance, Emmanuel Orukpe,

in a chat with journalists, said the action was taken to curb the activities of miscreants and others, who swindle unsuspecting residents in the pretext that they are agents of government. According to him, “After investigating the allegation contained in the petition written by a concerned citizen, who operates as a driver at the park, the order for the arrest of members of the syndicate was issued by the state government to the State Command of the Nigeria Police. “During surveillance by

members of my team working with security intelligence operatives, Peter Okpame, who is a member of the syndicate, was arrested. As I speak to you, Okpame is being interrogated by the Police.” Orukpe added, “We are hoping to get more details of the operations of the syndicate and identify other members of the group involved in the illegal revenue collection. They are on the run, but we assure that we will apprehend them.” He said that the state government will not hesitate to prosecute any person or

groups found to be collecting illegal revenues in whatever form or guise, warning those still involved in the illegality to desist from it forthwith. Speaking to journalists after his arrest, Okpame said members of his group collect N200 each from commercial drivers daily at the Koko-Oghara-Sapele-Warri park, which is remitted to their leaders. “The N200 we collect from each driver daily is used for maintaining the park which is in bad condition. We get at least N10,000 daily and give same to our leaders.”

N’Delta Gets Framework for Inclusive Growth as PIND, USAID Wind down Programme Ugo Aliogo Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) yesterday celebrated its five-year collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) which gave rise to a framework for reform that promotes inclusive economic growth in the Niger Delta. At a well attended winding down programme in Abuja, the Chief of Party of Strengthening Advocacy and Civic Engagement (SACE), Charles Abani, said the intervention has achieved its objective of increasing engagement and efficiency of civil society organisations (CSOs),

towards ensuring that public institutions serve the interests of citizens. Abani said, “The programme which has taken roots in the nine states that make up the Niger Delta also engages marginalised people such as women, youth and people with disabilities and supports good leadership and innovation”. Also speaking at the event, SACE’s Deputy Chief of Party, Lydia Odeh said SACE had achieved its specific objective to strengthening civil society capacity to demand for reforms that promote inclusive economic development in the region. According to her, SACE had been able to discover and work

with an alternative model of collaboration that aligns the diverse efforts of many actors towards the same social change goals. “Building on this learning, the SACE Project understands that transformational change requires that we incorporate the fundamental principles of effective voice and accountability programmes, generate sufficient public awareness and engagement, and promote effective transfer of knowledge in order to align the actions of many different actors to have an impact that goes beyond what one organisation can accomplish,” she said. Lydia explained that a

quality that stands SACE out is that it adopts an ecosystem approach by influencing clusters of partner organisations to create collective impact. “We have a unique method known as STAR, System for Transformation and Results, which enhances the organisational performance of CSOs”, she explained. PIND Executive Director, Dr. Dara Akala, while giving his remark, commended the project team for a job well done and urged all actors in the room to continue using their resources in pushing for responsive governance, inclusive and equitable economic growth “not only in Niger Delta region, but in Nigeria as a whole.

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FRIDAYSPORTS

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

Lokosa Gets Eunisellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s N3.8m,Trophy as NPFLTop Scorer Duro Ikhazuagbe Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) top scorer, Junior Lokosa, was yesterday presented with Eunisellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s N3.8million and trophy. The Kano Pillars hitman who scored 19 goals in 24 matches of the abridged 2018 NPFL season was honoured with N200,000 for each of the goal by Eunisell, the shirt sponsor of NPFL club Rivers United. At a brief but impressive ceremony at Radisson Blu Hotel in Ikeja yesterday, Lokosa who was accompanied to the event by his mother and some Kano Pillars team mates was thrilled receiving the cheque and trophy from Eunisell, a chemical and allied products specialist company. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a big honour to be recognised for my performance in the NPFL last season and I want to thank the sponsor (Eunisell) for their kind gesture,â&#x20AC;? Lokosa told reporters while grinning with excitement. The player who has been capped once by Nigeria in the international friendly with DR

Congo urged Eunisell to sustain the incentive as it would bring out the best in players plying their skills in the domestic scene. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is no doubt a big plus for the NPFL and I hope it will be sustained for a long time

as it will definitely bring out the best in we the players and improve the quality of the league. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to thank my teammates at Kano Pillars for their support as they made it possible

for me to win this award. I hope to win more individual and team accolades in future,â&#x20AC;? gushed Lokosa who looked resplendent in his grey suit. Speaking at the event, the Group Managing Director of

Eunisell, Mr. Chika Ikenga, said that his company was honoured to present the award to Lokosa for his marksmanship in the NPFL. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just as the entire nation comes to standstill when its

R-L: Group Managing Director of Eunisell Limited, Mr. Chika Ikenga; Eunisell Boot Award winner, Junior Lokosa; and SuperSport Presenter, Chisom Mbonu-Ezeoke, at the cheque and trophy presentation ceremony in Lagosâ&#x20AC;Śyesterday

AFCON 2019 QUALIF IER

football season, such is our fervent passion at Eunisell for football in Nigeria. We all get swept up in the excitement, the action, the goals, the clubs, the players and all the statistics,â&#x20AC;? stressed the Eunisell chief executive who promised to sustain the award. It is the hope of Ikenga that the Eunisell award will rekindle life back into the Nigerian topflight league. Lokosa joined Kano Pillars from First Bank FC during the second part of the 2016/2017 season and later became a key member of the squad following his goal scoring prowess. He was named in Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s provisional squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and is one of the five players in the stand-by list for the Super Eagles 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture against South Africa and the friendly game against the Cranes of Uganda. Former Enyimba striker, Mfon Udoh holds the record of the most goals (23) scored in a single season in the NPFL.

Onyekuru Replaces Injured Ighalo

LMC Chairman, Dikko, to Commission CAF Champions League Final

Super Eagles handlers have extended a late call up to Henry Onyekuru to replace injured striker Odion Ighalo for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Africa next weekend. The 29-year-old picked up a hamstring injury in Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chinese Super League 2-2 draw between his Changchun Yatai side and Tianjin Quanjian. Ighalo is the top scorer in AFCON 2019 qualifier with six goals including five in two games against Libya.

Chairman of the League Management Company (LMC), Shehu Dikko, has been named the Match Commissioner for the 2nd Leg final of Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prestigious club competition, the CAF Champions League which holds this evening in Tunisia. Dikko, who is also the 2nd Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is already in Tunis for the second leg of the finals between Al Ahly Sporting Club of Egypt and Esperance Sporting de Tunis of

Nigeria will face South Africa in a grudge game in Johannesburg on November 17 and host Uganda three days later in an international friendly. Bafana Bafana defeated Eagles in Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first match of the qualifiers. Onyekuru, 21, has scored twice in 12 appearances this season for Turkish club Galatasaray, where he is on loan from English side Everton. Ighaloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s injury comes as the latest setback to the three-time African champions who have

lost Wilfred Ndidi through suspension, and injuries to Ogenyi Onazi and goalkeeper Francis Uzoho. Nigeria is leading Group E with nine points from four matches, a point ahead of second-placed South Africa. Eagles who failed to qualify for the last two editions of the AFCON will seal qualification to next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tournament in Cameroon if they beat South Africa even with the last game against Seychelles in Nigeria to spare.

Crystal Palace, Wolves, Others Scramble for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Embattledâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Victor Moses

Zenith Bank Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ball League: Increase in Prize Money Excites Participants

Femi Solaja

Top participants of the just concluded Zenith Bank Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Basketball League have showered praises on the sponsors for increasing the prize money of the annual competition. On Wednesday, First Bank Basketball team, retained their title after defeating youthful Dolphins 84 - 66 points in a final match decided at the Sports Hall of the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos. In the third place game, Customs Basketball Club defeated new entrants to the league, MFM basketball team 57 - 49 to win the bronze. The winners, First Bank apart from the trophy won, also collected N1.5million for their efforts. Dolphins won N1.2million apart from the second-placed trophy while Customs were N1million richer for winning bronze. Last year the cash rewards were N1million, N500,000 and N250,000 for the first three winners.

Out-of-favour Chelsea wingback, Victor Moses, may be back to action again following the interest shown by clubs in England and the Far East. Chelsea coach, Maurizo Sarri, has declared Moses surplus to requirement since taking over from Antonio Conte. He has insisted that the Nigerian winger does not suit his game plan at Stamford Bridge. According to reports yesterday, the duo of Crystal Palace and Wolverhampton Wanderers where former Nigerian goalkeeper Carl Ikeme excelled have shown interest in getting the signature of Moses in the winter transfer in January. Under the former Italian Chelsea coach, Moses excelled as a right wing back in Conteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3-5-2 formation. Aside Palace and Wolver-

hampton, the current Chinese Super League champions, Shanghai SIPG have also joined the race too and should the deal for him to go to the Far East sail through, it will make the Nigerian start a new season with the club. The deal will also unite Moses with his former Chelsea teammate, Brazilian Oscar at the club. He also have former Super Eagles teammates like captain John Mikel Obi and Odion Ighalo who will help him to adjust to life in China. Sarri has continued to ignore the player who was an integral part of Conteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s squad that won the FA Cup last season. He did not consider Moses worthy in Chelseaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s last night Europa League game against Bate Borisov to further confirm that the former Nigerian international is not wanted anymore at the London club.

Skipper Nkechi Akashili of First Bank said it was good initiative by the sponsors, Zenith Bank, despite the league being played in an abridged format. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Zenith Bank did very well. Nobody saw that coming and we are all happy because it affected the top three teams,â&#x20AC;? Akashili said. Skipper of Dolphins, Bintu Badmus, also said the increase was encouraging for all the teams to work harder for next seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tournament. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will all work hard for the first place prize next year because this one is very good for us,â&#x20AC;? she said. MFM Coach, Adewunmi Aderemi, also praised the sponsors for engaging the youths despite the crisis in the federation. Many people believed the competition would not take place but somehow, we were able to have it. I am happy that the tournament was a good eye opener for my youthful team. The sponsors did very well,â&#x20AC;? Aderemi said.

Tunisia at the Stade Olympique de Rades. The Egyptian club holds a 3-1 advantage from the first leg played in Cairo. Only last week, the Nigerian football chief joined CAF Executive Committee members, management and the President of the South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premier Soccer League (PSL) to develop a new calendar for the CAF club competitions for the 2019/20 season. That session held in Morocco. Dikko, who is a member of

the CAF Organising Commitee for Inter-Clubs Competitions and Management of Clubs Licensing and also a Member of FIFA Football Stakeholders Committee is among the growing number of Nigerians playing influential roles and holding key committee positions in African and world football. This highlights the emerging recognition of Nigerian football administrators in key decision and policy formulation positions in continental and international football.

3rd Lagos Women Race Holds Saturday With less than 24 hours to the much-advertised 3rd edition of the Lagos Women Race, thousands of runners from across Lagos have collected their kits in readiness for the 2018 edition. The collection of kits marks the beginning of a two-day Expo which ended yesterday. Prior to that all the runners were given tips on the techniques of running a mini-marathon and health talks on wellness by carefully selected professionals. Also present at the venue of the Expo are staff of Forever Vision Eye Centre, who were engaged in the eye screening exercise for the runners ahead of Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10-kilometre race. The eye screening, according to the Consultant Ophthalmologist on ground, Dr. G.F Yusuf, will continue today and tomorrow so as to get to a large percentage of the runners. Meanwhile, former Nigerian hurdler, Glory Alozie, has thrown her weight behind the Lagos Women Run.

She gave her support in a telephone message with the Run Coordinator, Tayo Popoola. Olympic 4x400m gold medalist, Enefiok Udo-Obong, has been assigned the role of co-ordinating the over 150 volunteers who will be working in all departments of the Lagos Women Run on Saturday. Enefiok yesterday confirmed his sponsorship and provision of the volunteers attire for the event. He will also be responsible for their training and seminar towards maximum output on Saturday. The 10-kilometre run will flag off at the Tafawa Balewa Square, and passing through 15 historical sites in Lagos including the National Theatre. Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere is the finish point of the race. The Run Coordinator, Tayo Popoola, confirmed that aside from the finish point where there would be entertainment, there would also be an entertainment point at the National Theatre.

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Î Ë&#x153; ͺ͸͚Î&#x20AC; Ëž T H I S D AY

FRIDAYSPORTS

Fireworks in Rades as Esperance Hosts Al Ahly in Final Battle

Al Ahly takes ďŹ rst leg 3-1 advantage to Rades, Tunisia this evening as they confront Esperance in the CAF Champions League ďŹ nal second leg

After Al Ahlyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3-1 win over Esperance in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final in Egypt, all eyes will be on the Stade Olympique de Rades this evening when the Tunisian side host the return fixture to decide the continental championship. The Cairo giants will be taking nothing for granted, however, knowing that a 2-0 win for the home side would hand them the title. Al Ahly also know they will be in for a long evening in Rades, where the fiercely passionate Esperance fans will really get behind Anice Badri and Co,

just like they did in the previous round against Angolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Primeiro de Agosto. Considering the momentous occasion and the fact that Al Ahly need to keep a clean sheet or concede no more than one goal to be sure of victory, the Red Devils will be relying heavily on the expertise of players like Hossam Ashour. As the most senior member of the squad, Ashour has featured in more than 400 games with the club, won more than 30 local and continental titles, and led his team to runners-up spot in last

CA F C HA MP ION S LE AG UE yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s final. Ashour knows very well that the away goal scored by Youcef Belaili in the first leg makes their task more difficult. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were very focused on not conceding, something our coach Patrice Carteron repeatedly warned us about,â&#x20AC;? the veteran said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But we were against a very tough opponent, and things donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always work out the way you plan them. They scored a goal which has made our task harder for the second leg.â&#x20AC;?

Al Ahlyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defence is expected to have a stern test from a side boasting strikers of the calibre of Anice Badri, Youcef Belaili and Taha Yassine Khenissi, who between them shared their sideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four goals in the semi-final second leg against Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Agosto. While some observers feel the two-goal cushion has given Al Ahly the upper hand, Ashour thinks the opposite, warning that complacency could lead to a nasty surprise in Rades. He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve not secured the title yet. Yes, we won 3-1, but

Europa: Giroudâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Goal Sends Chelsea Through to Last 32 Olivier Giroudâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first goal of the season helped Chelsea into the last 32 of the Europa League as they edged to victory over Bate Borisov. The France international headed Emersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cross in at the near post early in the second period to maintain the Bluesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 100% Group L record. Chelsea are now six points clear of Hungarian side MOL Vidi, who moved up to second in the group with a win over PAOK Salonika. Despite the chilly conditions in Belarus, a white-hot atmosphere greeted Maurizio Sarriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side at a tightly-packed

Borisov Arena. And it was the hosts, who had confirmed their 13th consecutive Belarusian league title on Sunday, who initially went on the offensive. During a 60-second period, Bate twice carved out opportunities with Dmitri Bagaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rasping drive hitting the post and Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga athletically saving Stanislav Dragunâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s header from a corner. But as Chelsea grew more assured, the hosts retreated, and early in the second half Emersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cross allowed Giroud to nod the ball in at

the near post, his first goal since May. That prompted a strong response from Bate, but Nikolai Signevich struck the left post and Aleksey Rios blazed over from close range as the Blues held on to win. Despite Franceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exploits in winning the World Cup in Russia in the summer, it was hardly a vintage tournament for Giroud who ended it without registering a single shot on target in 546 minutes of action. And the prospects of an early-season pick-me-up were hardly assisted by his late return to training six days

before the Premier League campaign started. As a consequence, the 32-year-old has struggled for sharpness and to integrate into a style of play that is evolving under Sarri. However, in his 12th match of the campaign and 794 minutes from his last goal in Chelsea colours, against Liverpool on 6 May, Giroud made a decisive contribution. Tellingly, the 6ft 3in forward delivered it with a textbook downward header from Emersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pinpoint left-wing cross to underline the value his aerial prowess offers in tight games.

NPFL: Rivers Utd Goalkeeper,Akande, Back after Horrific Leg Fracture On Sunday, July 23, 2017, Rivers United goalkeeper, Abiodun Akande woke up with one thought at the back of his mind â&#x20AC;&#x201C; inspire the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Pride of Riversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to a resounding victory over Wikki Tourists in the Nigeria Professional Football League, later that day. Akandeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wish was granted as United won that game, 3-1 (the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest home win in the league in 11 months) against the Tourists but that win was soured by a shocking incident of monumental proportions. Late in the second half, a freak incident involving a Wikki Tourists attacker and Akande culminated in a collision that left the latter with a multiple fracture of the right leg. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The pain I felt at that moment was unbelievably excruciating,â&#x20AC;? Akande recounted in a chat with the official website

of Rivers United FC. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I thought my career was over at that instant. I recall that the Rivers State Commissioner (Hon. Boma Iyaye) ran towards me, with several other officials assuring me, while I was in tears, that the sponsors of the club would not abandon me. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He assured me that I would get the best possible care and that my financial entitlements would still be paid for as long I was sidelined. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Psychologically that was a big boost and it aided my complete recovery,â&#x20AC;? he said. Akande fractured the tibia and fibula of his right leg and had to undergo a special procedure to correct the damage. It was a slow and painstaking process but there was light at the end of the

tunnel with the club doctor, Chukwuemeka Agi, confirming that the player has now been medically certified fit to return to competitive action. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Akande was operated on by a foremost orthopeadic surgeon in Rivers State, Dr. Bob Yellowe and metals (implants) were inserted in his leg,â&#x20AC;? Dr Agi recalled. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It took quite a while to rehabilitate him and bring him back to his previous level (before he sustained the injury) after the metals were removed from his leg. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The sponsors of the club, the Rivers State Government must be commended for the role they played in helping this young Man return to full fitness,â&#x20AC;? Dr Agi concluded. Akande made his return to action for Rivers United on Wednesday, (16 months after

his initial injury) in a 0-1 reverse to Cynosure FC at the ongoing South East/South South preseason football tournament in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. He played all 90 minutes of the encounter and was outstanding between the sticks. The goalkeeper was understandably pleased to return to action. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to thank the Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike for his help in making this a reality and also a big thank you must be said to the Commissioner of Sports in Rivers State, Hon Boma Iyaye. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I thank everyone involved with Rivers United for helping me return to football. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Without their support, my career would have been over,â&#x20AC;? he said.

thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still the second half to play in Rades. That game will be difficult because Esperance managed to score a goal.â&#x20AC;? Even though Ashour anticipates a tough second leg, the Al Ahly man insisted he had full confidence in his team, who have a great record in the competition. Having lost the final last year to Wydad Casablanca, no one at the club want to endure similar heartbreak. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Al Ahly players will fight, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll lift the trophy in Tunis,â&#x20AC;? he vowed. Ashour is confident his side

are ready for the clash with Esperance, saying: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had a full week of preparations for the second leg and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re fully focused on securing the title.â&#x20AC;? Despite the absence of some key players for the second leg, Ashour expects his side to get a positive result and get back on the podium after a long drought. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still a second half to play which will be crucial and difficult,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;However, I hope luck will be on our side this time and that we return to Cairo with the trophy.â&#x20AC;?

NigerianTeams Arrive LomĂŠ for 2018 FIBA 3x3 Africa Cup Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s men and womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national basketball teams arrived in LomĂŠ, Togo yesterday for the 2018 FIBA 3x3 Africa Cup. The menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team captained by Azouma Dike of Kano Pillars is made up of his teammates from the Kano club. They include Abdul Yahaya, Lucky Subel and Godwin David. Still buzzing from their Zenith Bank Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Basketball League victory and a fairytale 2018 FIBA Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Cup run where the Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Tigress got to the quarterfinals, the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3x3 team will hope to tap into the superlative form of Nkechi Akaraiwe who scored 32 points, 2 assists and 5 rebounds to hand First Bank

Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Basketball club the 2018 Zenith Bank Basketball Women League on Wednesday. World Cup debutant and 2018 Zenith Bank Basketball Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s League Most Valuable Player, Nkem Uwa Akaraiwe alongside Grace Okonkwo were also listed. Following her sterling role in the colours of Dolphins, 2018 3x3 u-18 African Youth Games MVP, Ijeh Fumnaya Linda was also listed by the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coach, Acha Chris. The men will hope to defend their title which they won in 2017 while the women who lost out narrowly to Mali in 2017 final will hope to go a step further and win the title.

Kano Pillars Appoint Baleria Caretaker Coach Kano Pillars Football Club has appointed former Flying Eaglesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Assistant Coach, Kabiru Baleria as the interim head coach of the club with immediate effect pending the appointment of substantive technical adviser. The appointment of Baleria followed the expiration of the contract of the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technical Adviser Ibrahim A. Musa. The management of the club under the leadership of Alhaji Tukur Babangida charged the interim head coach to work closely with other technical crew and clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s supporting staff in discharging his duties. The management of the club is confident that Baleria would

use his wealth of experience to protect the image of the club as well as come up with new ideas that would move the club forward for the period he is going to handle the team. Meanwhile, the Sai Masu Gida are negotiating with five new players â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Surajoddeen Ayele, Sunday Chinedu, Augustine Igenepo, Jeffrey Essi and Obaleke Thomas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ahead of the new season. Spokesman of the team, Idris Malikawa hinted that plans are also underway to promote two or three players from the feeder team to the senior team before the commencement of 2018/2019 NPFL season.

Friday, November 9, 2018

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MISSILE Fayose to Fayemi “I have left office and the projects done by my government can be seen by the people of Ekiti, he should devote his time and resources to things that the people of Ekiti can point to as his achievements after the mandate that was stolen for him might have been retrieved.” -Former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, advising his successor, Kayode Fayemi, to face governance and stop lamenting.

SHAKAMOMODU Tinubu’s Breathtaking Hypocrisy (2) THIS REPUBLIC

shaka.momodu@thisdaylive.com

T

he self-proclaimed national leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu, won’t keep quiet. He won’t leave us alone! I am constrained to direct Nigerians’ attention once again to his legendary breathtaking hypocrisy on a cocktail of national issues. His frequent self-righteous attempts at moralising about corruption and good governance, in a bid to impress and demonstrate support for an out-of-date, out-of-touch and aloof president makes my blood boil; I literally throw a punch in the air in frustration about where Nigeria has found itself with people like Tinubu calling the shots. You see, we are dealing with people without scruples or a shred of what good governance is all about except it serves their interests; people whose faith in black power supersedes their fear of the Almighty God. We are dealing with a gang of super-rich mob-like political merchants whose wealth from corrupt political patronage now poses a significant threat to the emergence of credible candidates for public offices. With the massive ill-gotten resources at their disposal, it has been easy for them to hold many states hostage, and their modus operandi increasingly poses a threat to the survival of unborn generations. Each time Tinubu and his harem of court jesters and hypocrites insult and assault our sensibilities, I struggle to make sense of what remains of those values and lessons from our forbearers that have not yet been balkanised and bastardised by these people. I am even sometimes amused when these people of easy virtue try to claim the moral high ground and present themselves as custodians of the baton of a glorious past and the bridge to a bright future. How can they be? What do these people stand for, I often ask myself whenever I see their self-serving statements in the media always designed to gain political advantage. But beyond bewilderment, I am troubled by the danger they pose to the real change, not the counterfeit currently reigning in the land. The truth is despite the reservations one may have about the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria was better under the “16 years of waste” compared to the nearly four years of rot, total cluelessness, nepotism, clannishness, grand corruption on an industrial scale, unprovoked brigandage, and mindless slaughter of innocent lives by Fulani herdsmen and other militia groups besting our security forces. But Tinubu and his choir of pretenders and residents of alternate reality continue to live in denial of self-evident truths about their destructive reign. You see, I am almost tired of arguing fiction with facts. But I have also come to realise that we are dealing with determined opponents who would not stop lying. So we should not be tired of calling them out anytime they disturb our peace with false and misleading claims. They think that by repeating a cocktail of tired lies and half-truths several times, it will help them remake and rewrite the facts on the ground to suit their narrative and mislead undiscerning Nigerians. Of course, in this nefarious quest, there are willing writers of fortunes-for-hire to help advance their narrative. But that strategy won’t work this time around because unlike in the 2015 election, President Muhammadu Buhari is in the hot seat now and many Nigerians are feeling the heat of his stinking performance and unbelievable incompetence. Since Buhari brought Tinubu back from political hibernation, the Jagaban Borgu has been too excited and eager to please him. He is doing it in a somewhat disgusting manner, betraying his overexcitement and appreciation for being brought

Tinubu back from the cold. I have recently observed that Tinubu — in an effusive display of commitment to his pact with Buhari — is fond of making unguarded statements that offend our sensibilities each time he visits the Presidential Villa or flies in the presidential jet with the president. Who will forget that memorable photograph of Jagaban’s big smile from ear to ear at the joy of travelling with Mr President to one of the African countries not so long ago? It reminds you of a wayward child who follows a stranger home because he gave him candy. When he faces reporters immediately after each encounter with Buhari, he gushes with eagerness to impress him. Now, what do you make of what he was reported to have said about the PDP immediately he emerged from a meeting with Buhari last week Wednesday? This was what he said: “We don’t fear, whether he (Atiku) is meeting in the jungle in Dubai or in Abu Dhabi. People are free to meet and strategise in any way they feel, but we are not going back to the illusion of the PDP. It is not possible, Nigerians will not do that. They say slow and steady wins the race. We inherited that from our forefathers and knowledgeable people. We can’t go back to the pit that we inherited for 16 years. They can strategise from anywhere but a leopard cannot change its skin.” Did Tinubu really say all that, or was he misquoted? I suspect he did, but does he really think we are fools who can’t see the pit we have been led into by Buhari on the pretext of change? Or does he really believe Buhari is providing good leadership for the country? Does he really believe the economy is doing well? Does this man actually believe in the sermons he delivers on good governance, or he just says it as a way of self-preservation for his own empire to last just for another day? What really does this man called Tinubu stand for? Progressive development? But he repudiated all that recently when he pulled the second term rug under the Lagos State governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s feet, stating publicly that even though he had performed well, he was not a good party man and as such won’t get a second term. When people like Tinubu enjoy impunity the way he has done over the last 20 years, they begin to see themselves as invincible. His success in denying Ambode a second term seems to have emboldened him to now see himself as someone capable of walking on water and flying in the air. But he should know that no empire lasts forever. In that diatribe against the PDP, Tinubu wanted the world to believe that the opposition party had

0811 266 1654

put Nigeria in a pit. Well, he should know that if the PDP put Nigeria in a pit, the APC has messed up the rescue efforts and has dug that pit deeper. Since Tinubu lives in an alternate universe, maybe he was not aware of Kano Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s dollar bribery videos. The scandal broke several weeks ago. I am drawing his attention to it so that he can focus on the pit that the APC has dragged Nigeria into. Up till now, nothing has been said about it by the “saintly” APC that brands the PDP corrupt. The wisdom of old tells us to first take the plank out of our own eye and then we will see clearly to remove the speck from another man’s eye. Tinubu and his empty vessels in the APC have been making the most noise since taking power in 2015. For all their noise, we have seen how empty they are. We have seen how easily susceptible and even more so to all the vagaries and abuses of power that they accused the PDP of. The APC government has shown itself to be completely lawless and disrespectful of court orders. So they would do well to save us the agony of the platitudes. They should save us the moralising and sophistry of their purported efforts to rescue Nigeria from a pit. Ganduje, who promised to deliver five million votes to Buhari in the 2019 presidential election, was caught red-handed receiving dollar bribes from contractors in several video clips and the Buhari-led APC government which claims to be fighting corruption has maintained a deafening silence on the issue. So far, though belatedly, only SERAP has called for a probe. In sane societies, Ganduje would have been probed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the report forwarded to the state House of Assembly for action. This saintly APC is neither ashamed nor embarrassed by the videos of the bribe-taking governor to the point of making a conscious decision to drop Ganduje as its standard-bearer in the Kano governorship race. Tinubu sees nothing wrong in this. But just imagine if it was a PDP governor caught in such a shameful, disgraceful act, the APC and its EFCC, along with its satellite pro-democracy groups would have been shouting to the heavens by now. Under this so-called corrective, corruption-fighting government, we saw how 48 houses which were suspected proceeds of corruption were returned to a stalwart of the APC and a former governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva. Thereafter, he went underground so that the scandal would not receive much media scrutiny. All those houses were acquired in just four years during Sylva’s tenure as governor. But EFCC is busy chasing down any lead on Diezani Alison-Madueke’s alleged properties and seizing them. Why is there an animal farm attitude of one nation two moralities here? Since June this year, a petition was submitted to the EFCC on the large-scale malfeasance bordering on tax evasion, money laundering, and outright corruption totalling over N100 billion in Alpha Beta, a company alleged to be connected to Tinubu himself who is arguably one of the most prominent APC leaders in this country. One hundred billion naira is too big a sum for a government looking for funds to fund the 2018 budget to ignore. Who was the whistleblower? The former managing director of the company for nearly 15 years. Imagine the quantum of information at his disposal. Strangely, the EFCC is still evaluating this particular petition. Imagine if it was a petition against any of the prominent figures in the PDP. By now, the investigation would have taken a breakneck speed with arrests and daily leaks by the EFCC to the media with sensational discoveries of wrongdoing. Recall that Tinubu once described the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) as former

President Goodluck Jonathan’s ATM. Well, that might have been true. But what has changed since the APC-led government took over power in 2015? It appears Jonathan has since relinquished the ATM and the Eureka moment for Buhari came when he found it. And he broke into a kumbaya song. From the scale of corruption in that corporation under Buhari’s watch, what happened under Jonathan now looks like a child’s play. Under Buhari, there has been a rising crescendo of the daily ATM withdrawals to an alarming level. Suddenly, from 30-35 million litres of petrol consumed daily under Jonathan, the figures have since jumped to between 65 and 80 million litres daily. This same Tinubu sees nothing strange and fishy about that astronomical increase despite the country’s rapid economic decline. Till today, nobody has been able to explain how contracts worth $25 billion were awarded without due process or recourse to the NNPC board for approval. Some were even awarded when President Buhari was in a London hospital and Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo was the acting president; yet he didn’t know about the contracts. In a developing news report by Premium Times, the federal government has been found to have illegally diverted $1.05 billion (N378 billion at N360 to a dollar) sourced from the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) dividend to secretly fund subsidy payments on petroleum products. Who pays this subsidy? Of course, the NNPC which is currently the sole importer of petrol. So the NNPC basically pays itself any amount it determines as subsidy on the fraudulent astronomical volume it claims as the daily national consumption? The disturbing thing here is that it is all shrouded in secrecy. But here is the icing on the cake: What the NNPC was to Jonathan for just five years is what Lagos has been to Tinubu for almost 20 years! Interestingly, Tinubu has never misplaced his Lagos ATM for one day in the last 20 years. Under this APC-led government, Nigeria has declined in all development indices culminating in it earning the ignoble badge of shame as the Poverty Capital of the World. It has overtaken India as the country with the most extremely poor people in the world, despite the fact that India has a population seven times larger than Nigeria’s. Of course Tinubu will not appreciate this implication. How could he when he openly boasted of being richer than his native Osun State? Under the APC government, Nigeria has been rated one of the most dangerous place in the world to give birth and has more HIV-infected babies than anywhere in the world, according to a recent report. What is this government doing about these grim statistics? All these are of less concern to Tinubu. All he and fellow APC members want is power for the sake of it. Tinubu should give us a break and hide his face in shame, instead of adding insult to injury of our collective psyche he and his fellow collaborators have inflicted on this country. His Buhari experiment has failed, period! Nigeria is in worse shape than Buhari met it. It is foolhardy in the extreme for Tinubu and his supporters to continue to parrot tired excuses and point the finger at others for the tragedy they have brought on Nigeria. Only someone with a dangerous inclination to mislead would say that things are better now than they were four years ago. I am however under no illusion about the motivation of those who want this country to remain this way as long as they can call the shots. Thanks to the unbelievable docility of Nigerians, a man who bears the single greatest responsibility for the disastrous state of our country frequently opens his mouth in public to utter gibberish.

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