SATURDAY 24TH NOVEMBER 2018

Oil Price Tumbles, Budget 2018 Faces New Challenge Chika Amanze-Nwachuku with agency report Nigeria’s economy may be heading for yet another trouble, as oil price plunged to a one-year low of $58.41 a barrel yesterday, down more than 22 percent, following

global oversupply. West Texas Intermediate, the U.S. benchmark, fell close to $50 a barrel.

Oil prices reached an astonishing near all-time low of $28 a barrel in 2016, but hit $80 in September this year, raising the hopes

of Nigeria and other producing nations that still rely on oil exports, that they will generate adequate revenue from oil exports in 2018 and beyond.

However, the reverse is now the case as Global benchmark, Brent crude settled down $3.80 per barrel, or 6.1 per cent at

$58.80, after the benchmark dropped to $58.41, the lowest since October 2017.

The 2018 Appropriation Bill of N9.12 trillion expenditure was premised on oil price benchmark of $51 per barrel as against $45 proposed by the president.

Crude oil production was benchmarked at 2.3 million barrels per day and exchange rate of N305 to one dollar.

The upward review in oil benchmark, increased allocations to the following critical sectors of the economy; security N46.72 billion; health

N57.15 billion; power, works and housing N106.50 billion.

Budget deficit was also reduced by N50.88 billion.

But with an oil price benchmark of $51, crude oil production of 2.3 million Continued on page 6

Abdulsalami to Nigerians: Stop Criticizing, Vote Out Incompetent Governments… Page 8 Saturday 24 November, 2018 Vol 23. No 8620

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Jonathan: Shettima Has a Lot of Questions to Answer on Boko Haram Tragedy Pressure mounts on governor over state allocation and IDP spending Charles Ajunwa and Benneth Oghifo Former President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday challenged the Borno State Governor,

Kashim Shettima to offer plausible explanations “for the ignoble roles he played in worsening the Boko Haram tragedy in his home state.”

This is coming as some

concerned Borno State stakeholders are calling on Shettima to account for how he has been managing the state’s finances and the expenditure on Internally

Displaced Persons for almost eight years.

In statement issued yesterday by his Media Adviser, Ikechukwu Eze, in response to criticism of his

book (My Transition Hours) by Shettima, the former president said in the past four years, the Borno governor had been living in denial, “towing an evasive path he has cleverly

beaten for himself. What he may not know is that he is only walking the path of a villain.”

Continued on page 6

Killing of 44 Soldiers: Buhari Meets with Service Chiefs, Dispatches Defence Minister to Chad PDP: Service chiefs’ distractions led to killings Shola Oyeyipo and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Worried by the killing of 44 soldiers by Boko Haram last Sunday during an attack on a military base in Metele, Borno State, near the Nigeria – Chad boarder, President Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday, summoned an emergency meeting with the Service Chiefs.

On the same day, the President dispatched the Minister of Defence, Brigadier General Mansur Dan Ali (Rtd) to neighbouring Republic of Chad for an urgent meeting with President Idris Derby and his defence counterpart.

Also yesterday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) alleged that the killing of 44 soldiers in Metele was as a result of the active involvement of the Service Chiefs in the re-election

activities of President Buhari, “instead of concentrating on their statutory duties.”

Sources also told THISDAY last night that families of the latest victims of the Boko Haram attacks are being identified and contacted ahead an official government pronouncement. According to the military sources, this is responsible for the silence of the federal government over the incident.

Reliable diplomatic sources in Abuja that hinted THISDAY of the development yesterday, strictly on condition of anonymity, said Ali's mission was to unearth what led to the increase in the activities of Boko Haram terrorists in the area and to find an immediate solution to it.

According to the source, Continued on page 6

Magu Meets with UK National Crime Agency in Bid to Extradite Deziani... Page 6

WITH LOVE FROM BENUE...

President Muhammadu Buhari with Senator George Akume, during a reception for a delegation of Benue State All Progressives Party’s stakeholders in the State House, Abuja…yesterday godwin omoigui

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Magu Meets with UK National Crime Agency in Bid to Extradite Deziani Seeks repatriation of stolen funds stashed in UK Alex Enumah in Abuja The acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu has met with the National Crime Agency (NCA), in the United Kingdom over the extradition of a former Minister of Petroluem Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison- Madueke and other Nigeria’s politically exposed persons (PEPs) living in the UK. Besides, Magu at the meeting with UK officials discussed how the authorities could assist Nigeria in the repatriation of her stolen funds stashed in that region.

The EFCC said in a statement by its acting Head of Media and Publicity, Tony Orilade that Magu “on Thursday, 22 November, 2018 met with the

NCA, in the United Kingdom to discuss the efforts of the Commission in recovering all ill-gotten assets domiciled in foreign jurisdiction by Nigeria’s PEPs.� According to the statement obtained by THISDAY, the acting EFCC Chair also explained to the UK authorities why the commission was seeking the extradition of all PEPs. “Outside the recovery of assets, the EFCC boss in the course of the high powered meeting with officials of the NCA will also present the Commission’s position on ways to fast-track the extradition of all PEPs who have found safe heavens in foreign jurisdiction�, the statement added.

Orilade said that Magu had impressed upon the British authorities the essence of

extraditing the former minister. “The EFCC Chairman had explained why the anti-graft agency is bent on extraditing all PEPs. For instance, speaking on the former Minister Of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Deziani Alison-Madueke, whose process of extradition from the United Kingdom has commenced, Magu explained that having waited for three years, the Nigerian Government believes that it is time to initiate the extradition process�, the EFCC Spokesman added.

The statement recalled that in 2017, a Federal High Court in Lagos ordered the final forfeiture of N7.6 billion alleged loot the Commission recovered from Diezani. The order of final forfeiture was granted by Justice Abdulazeez Anka.

Orilade said apart from

Diezani, the commission is also seeking the extradition of several other PEPs who had fled into exile since 2015 when the current administration of President Muhammadu Buhari came on board.

The NCA is a national law enforcement agency in the United Kingdom. It was established in 2013 as a non-ministerial government department, replacing the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA), and absorbing the formerly separate Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre as one of its commands.

Meanwhile, Magu has appealed to Nigerians in the diaspora to own the fight against corruption. Magu who made the call while speaking at the Black History Month of the School

of Business and Management Studies of the Queen Mary University of London, said for the fight against corruption to be effectively won in Africa, the job of fighting the scourge should not be left in the hands of the government or anti- corruption agencies alone.

In a paper titled, “Taming Corruption: The Way Forward for African Development� the anti-graft officer said Africa had been bearing the brunt of corruption for so long and that developmental efforts of government gets truncated as corrupt individuals divert public funds to private pockets. “This presentation supports the view that corruption is one of the factors that contributed to the current predicament of the African continent. The World Bank estimates that

about $1 trillion are given out as bribe worldwide annually, representing about 3 percent of world GDP.�

According to the statement from the commission, Magu told his audience that there was another dimension of corruption in Africa that is worth mentioning because of its greater destructive potential.

He said this pertains to large scale corruption perpetrated by the ruling elite, top government bureaucrats, politicians, businessmen, bank executives, captains of industries in the private sector and the rest.

Magu disclosed that between 1970 and 1996, capital flight from sub-Saharan Africa through corruption totalled $187 billion, an amount that exceeded the external debts of the countries involved.

low in 1998 at just over $17 before reaching an all-time high of $140 in June 2008, only to fall once again below $40 by the end of the year.

Also, oil price rose from $112 a barrel in 2014 but prices plummeted, eventually bottoming at about $28 in February 2016.

The 2014-16 collapse in oil prices, one of the largest in modern history, had painful effects on economies of countries that rely on oil exports.

Nigeria, Venezuela, Russia and Azerbaijan were among the

oil producing countries hard hit. Azerbaijan economy, like that of The 2014-2016 oil prices collapse also took a huge toll on Nigeria’s economy as the country eventually slipped into recession, after its economy contracted 2.06% between April and June 2016.

A recent report by the Financial Times revealed that most of Nigeria’s commercial banks have their fortunes tied to fluctuations in global oil prices considering that about a third of all credits they extend to the economy are directed to operations in the country’s

oil and gas industry.

The report, titled ‘Investing in Nigeria,’ chronicled developments in Nigeria’s economy and politics ahead of the 2019 general elections.

It explained, among other observations, that analysts estimate that about half of the loans of commercial banks in Nigeria were given for upstream, midstream, and downstream oil and gas operations and the supply chain, adding that rising levels of Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) of the banks were traced to the oil sector.

OIL PRICE TUMBLES, BUDGET 2018 FACES NEW CHALLENGE barrels per day and exchange rate of N305/$1 approved for the budget, and rising tension in parts of the north and the Niger Delta region, and uncertainties as the 2019 elections draw closer, falling oil price, will put the entire budget in disarray.

Oil prices dropped by nearly eight per cent to the lowest in more than a year yesterday, posting the seventh consecutive weekly loss, amid intensifying fears of a glut even as major producers consider cutting output to remove the excess inventory in the global market.

Although the Organisation

of the Petroleum Exporting Countries is expected to curb output, rising U.S. oil supply has fueled persistent concerns about a global surplus.

Meanwhile Bloomberg reported that the real OPEC meeting will come a week ahead of December 6, schedule meeting, as key decision makers are set to gather on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Buenos Aires in a meeting that may well decide the direction of oil prices in 2019.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Russian President Vladimir

Putin, who lead the world’s two largest oil exporters and have been working together to manage the oil market for the past two years, both plan to be in the Argentinian capital at the end of next week. Just as important will be U.S. President Donald Trump, who’s made his opposition to OPEC a regular theme in his Twitter diplomacy.

Trump had already celebrated the plunge on Wednesday, tweeting: "Oil prices getting lower. Great!" Yet, he wants more: "Thank you to Saudi Arabia, but let’s go lower!"

Oil prices reached an all-time

KILLING OF 44 SOLDIERS: BUHARI MEETS WITH SERVICE CHIEFS, DISPATCHES DEFENCE MINISTER TO CHAD “Nigeria has a problem with Chad in the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) put together to secure the Lake Chad basin areas and repeal the Boko Haram terrorists’ attacks against all the countries neighbouring the Lake."

Chad is believed to be having their own internal security challenges and this has reportedly led the government to withdraw the troops manning their boarder with Lake Chad. “That lacuna is being exploited by the Boko Haram terrorists, who go in and out of Nigeria, Niger and Cameroon to launch terrorist acts. This is a clear illustration of the

fact that terrorism is beyond national border."

Asked to comment on the development, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Garba Shehu confirmed that he was aware that the Defence Minister was going to Chad but said he did not know his mission there.

Reacting to the slaughter of over 44 Nigerian soldiers, the PDP said they died needlessly because of the Service Chiefs’ neglect of their responsibilities in preference for the re-election campaign activities of President Buhari.

The main opposition party said although it still had implicit

faith in the Nigerian military, but warned Buhari to desist from acts that tend to whittle the proficiency and compromise the safety of the service men and women who are daily risking their lives in defence of the nation.

The PDP, in a statement yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, lamented that the incessant and avoidable killing of the soldiers by insurgents in the North-east demands explanation from the president.

He stated: “The PDP insists on clarifications from the Buhari Presidency. This is in addition to apprehensions by Nigerians

that the Buhari Presidency has been distracting our military by dragging our Service Chiefs to participate in his re-election campaign activities, instead of concentrating on their statutory duties. “The PDP, however, notes that it still has implicit faith in the Nigerian military and urged the Buhari Presidency to desist from acts that tend to whittle the proficiency and compromise the safety of our men and women who are daily risking their lives in defence of our nation.� “This is particularly against the backdrop of earlier claims by the federal government that

insurgents operating in the North-east have been defeated.�

The party expressed worry over reports of alleged compromises, neglect and inattention to military formations in the North-east leading to the vulnerability of the soldiers.

The PDP urged Buhari to be alive to his responsibility as the Commander-in-Chief by immediately reviewing his parade to ensure greater professionalism and welfare of our officers and men.

The party also called on Nigerians not to despair in the face of this ugly development but to continue to join forces

with security agencies in the effort to rid the land of bandits, insurgents and marauders.

Boko Haram terrorists killed scores of soldiers during attacks on three military bases within three days in Borno State. In the first attack, scores of soldiers were killed in Metele. The same day, they launched a pre-dawn attack on a base in the town of Gajiram, about 80 kilometres north of Maiduguri.

The previous day, the terrorists also attacked a military base in Mainok, Borno State, killing a soldier. Boko Haram fighters also stormed Mammanti village in Borno State, killing nine farmers.

JONATHAN: SHETTIMA HAS A LOT OF QUESTIONS TO ANSWER ON BOKO HARAM TRAGEDY In another statement issued by Reno Omokri on his behalf on the same day, Jonathan told the Buhari administration to leave him alone and face Transparency International, that reported that Nigeria was more corrupt today than under the last Peoples Democratic Party’s government.

On the Borno governor, Jonathan was quoted as saying: “On Wednesday Nigerians were treated to a noisy but feeble defence by Borno Governor Kashim Shettima who, only ended up showcasing a jaded ritual of chest-thumbing, rather than offer plausible explanations for the ignoble roles he played in worsening the Boko Haram tragedy in his home state. “In the past four years, he has been living in denial, towing an evasive path he has cleverly beaten for himself. What he may not know is that he is only walking the path of a villain. “Once demand is made on him to explain why he deliberately ignored both the directive of both the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) for Governors to keep candidates in the affected locations out of harm's way by relocating them to safer areas for their exams, he goes asking for the release of the

report of Gen. Ibrahim Sabo-led facts-finding committee set up

by President Jonathan.�

The statement also said that the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the President, Garba Shehu towed a revisionist path when he claimed that Jonathan's anti-corruption records couldn't be substantiated. “Has he forgotten that facts don't lie? The only credible and globally recognized anti-corruption marker is Transparency International.

Nigeria’s best ranking in TI’s corruption perception index still remains her placing in 2014, under President Jonathan, as the 136th out of all the countries ranked. This is far better than the last position recorded under the present government where Nigeria was ranked as number 148, a decline that took the nation 12 places backward. “Rather than continue to raise a false banner of piety which apparently is no longer working, this administration would have served itself and the country better by understudying the success nuggets of its predecessors. “Part of the successful tools established by Jonathan to fight corruption included the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System, IPPIS, which weeded out

50,000 ghost federal workers and saved the country N15 billion monthly. “The institutional framework also included the establishment of such mechanisms as the treasury single account (TSA), and bank verification number (BVN), vital anti-corruption tools which are now shamelessly being appropriated by those that inherited them. “There is no doubt that Jonathan provided focused leadership on the economic front, through institutional and sectoral reforms which impacted positively on the fundamentals for growth. Having sowed wisely, the Jonathan administration reaped bountifully by keeping inflation at a single digit, growing Nigeria’s economy to become the largest in Africa with a GDP of over half a trillion US dollars, and becoming the number one foreign direct investment destination on the continent,� remarked Jonathan.

The statement said it was obvious from the pattern of deleterious comments from certain quarters since the successful public presentation of ‘My Transition Hours’, a book by Dr. Goodluck Jonathan that a comprehensive plan to discredit the book was afoot. “However, since facts don't lie,

the plot shall come to nought, just as the sustained propaganda blitzkrieg against the author and all he stands for, has failed to dampen enthusiasm and respect for his legacies,� said Jonathan.

Meanwhile, the concerned Borno stakeholders, who pleaded for anonymity, are asking Shettima to account for all the revenue that had accrued to his administration for almost eight years. They allege that the governor had not been transparent in his financial dealings, particularly regarding funds released for the upkeep of Borno IDPs. Jonathan: Buhari’s administration should leave me alone and face Transparency International.

In a related development, former President Jonathan yesterday told the Buhari’s administration to leave him alone and contend with Transparency International that reported Nigeria as more corrupt today than under the previous government ran by the Peoples Democratic Party.

Jonathan, in a statement signed

by Omokri, said the presidency was showing signs of guilt in its response to the content of the book.

The statement read in part: “It is just evidence of a guilty conscience. As Shakespeare said,

‘The lady doth protest too much, methinks.’ “First and foremost, it was not former President Jonathan who said Nigeria is more corrupt today than it was under the last Peoples Democratic Party administration.

That fact was actually stated by Transparency International, the only global body acknowledged as an independent rating agency for corruption. “Whereas under Jonathan and the PDP, Nigeria made her best ever improvement on Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, moving eight places forward from 144 to 136 in 2014, but under President Buhari and the All Progressives Congress, Nigeria has made her worst ever retrogression, moving backwards 12 places from 136 to 148. This is a fact.�

The statement added: “Other people have stated the obvious besides Transparency International, one of them being Ms. Priti Patel, immediate past UK Secretary of State for International Development, who this week described President Buhari’s anti-corruption war as a sham and an impediment to Nigeria and urged foreign direct investors to shun Nigeria because of Buhari.

“Predictably, Garba Shehu, threw diplomatic etiquette to the wind and hurled invectives at Ms. Patel. “But Mr. Garba Shehu forgot to tell Nigerians how his boss, President Muhammadu Buhari went to Paris and praised the Governor of Kano State, a man caught on camera hiding dollar bribes in his babanriga. Yet, they charged Ayo Fayose and refused to charge Babachir Lawal. “Even the blind can see the corruption of this administration and the deaf can hear it; with questionable certificates, fraudulent #NextLevel logo and document, plagiarising speeches of both Barrack Obama and Charles DeGaulle. Not to talk of the $25 billion dollars’ worth of contracts awarded without due process at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation as revealed in Mr. Ibe Kachikwu’s leaked memo, Aisha Buhari’s ADC’s looted billions and the reinstatement and promotion of a thief like Maina. “Besides, if the Buhari administration is upset at their gold medal for corruption, they should not take out their frustrations at Mr. Jonathan. They should face the umpire who gave them the award, Transparency International.�

THISDAYt SATURDAY NOVEMBER 24, 2018

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Ă?ĂĄĂ? ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ™Ăœ Ahamefula Ogbu 08116759810 (Ă?Ă—Ă? Ă™Ă˜Ă–ĂŁĚš Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă– ahamefula.ogbu@thisdaylive.com

DONE DEAL...

L-R: Member, Board of Governors, Pearl Awards Nigeria, Dr. Nike Akande; CEO, Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mr. Oscar Onyema; President/CEO, Pearl Awards Nigeria, Mr. Tayo Orekoya; Chairman, Pearl Awards Nigeria, Alh. Umar Farouk and Member, Board of Governors, Pearl Awards Nigeria, Mrs. Eniola Fadayomi, during ringing of the closing gong at the Nigerian Stock Exchange by Pearl Awards Board of Governor in Lagos PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT yesterday

Stop Criticising, Vote Out Incompetent Governments, Abdulsalami Charges Seriki Adinoyi Ă“Ă˜ Ă™Ă?

Former Military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar has urged Nigerians to stop criticising failures of government and misrule of bad leaders in the country but should rise up and vote out incompetent government.

General Abubakar spoke yesterday evening at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, where he delivered a Distinguished Annual Lecture on ‘Election and Security in Nigeria: Policy Options and Strategies’ ahead of the Graduation Ceremony of the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 40 holding today (Saturday).

He said, “Let me try to conclude by saying that every citizen must do their duty; you must not sell your vote, you must register to vote, and stop criticising the failures of government if you will not go and vote them out if they are not doing their job. You should not allow your children to be used for violence.�

While recalling the history of violence in Nigeria since the independence, the General identified some of the causes to include incredible election umpires, militarisation of elections by security agents, crowded political parties, poor electoral laws, and delay in judicial system.

According to General Abuba-

kar, credible electoral umpire was very critical in building the confidence of the electorate, adding that they must be seen to be transparent, adding, “They must not be seen to be taking side as observed in Ekiti State with the result now being contested in court.�

He said the responsibility of security agencies must be defined as their roles were very critical to the success or failure of any election as “Heavy policing and militarisation of election as observed in Ekiti was enough to scare voters from coming out to exercise their franchise.�

Abubakar also decried votebuying, describing it as an ill

Onnogen Appears Before Senate Committee over Buhari’s Refusal to Assent 17 Bills Deji Elumoye Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnogen, has appeared before a Technical Committee set up by the Senate to revive 17 Bills that were refused assent by President Muhammadu Buhari to explain why he advised the President to decline assent to some of the Bills.

Although it is on record that no Chief Justice has ever appeared before any Senate committee in the past, Justice Onnogen appeared before the Committee in company of the Executive Secretary of the National Judicial Council (NJC), Ahmed Gambo Saleh, Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) Executive Secretary, Bassey Eleng Bassey, Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Hadizatu Uwani Mustapha among others.

Chairman of the Committee, Senator David Umoru (Niger East), in his opening remarks, disclosed that President Buhari cited advice of the CJN as what he relied upon to decline assent to Constitution (4th Alteration) Act. No. 22, which seeks to strengthen the judiciary for speedy dispensation of Justice.

Umoru told Jusice Onnogen: “Your Lordship, this committee on behalf of the Senate and by extension, the National Assembly wants to hear from you directly on why you advised the President to refuse assent to the bill. “We believe that information made available to us via his letter of refusal of assent on account of advice given by your lordship is also available to you “.

As the Chief Justice made to respond, the Committee chairman ordered journalists, aides and protocol officers to the CJN out of the Committee Room to allow for closed door session which lasted for about two hours.

At the end of the session, attempts made to get clarifications from the CJN by journalists on what transpired at the closed door session were unsuccessful as he refused to speak with newsmen.

Although the Committee Chairman said President Buhari directed Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN) to interface with the CJN to remedy the defects in the bill to strengthen the judiciary, but

neither Malami nor his representative was at the meeting.

Apart from the CJN, representatives of the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria , Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) and Postmaster General of the Federation , also had closed door session with the committee on how rejected Stamp Duties (Amendment) Bill, 2018 can be redrafted and forwarded to the President for assent .

President Buhari had in his letter of refusal of assent to the bill forwarded to both chambers of the National Assembly said the bill’s proposals for the imposition of stamp duties on savings accounts and electronic transactions may impair the implementation of the federal government’s Financial Inclusion Strategy, e-payment programmes and cashless banking policies.

Umoru explained that the technical committee will meet with heads of other government establishments and the Attorney General of the Federation next week to fashion out how to rectify the remaining 15 bills refused assents by the President.

that must be urgently addressed before the 2019 elections. He said Boko Haram was certainly a threat to the 2019 elections in the North-east, adding that IPOB, the MEND and others were also a threat.

Noting that there were currently 91 registered political parties for the elections, the General described it as undesirable crowd, especially that “many of the so-called political parties do not have ideological orientation.

They are ethno-regional in character, with low party discipline; there is hardly anything like party supremacy. Those that fund them hijack and commercialise them.�

He feared that if quick ac-

tions were not taken, political hooliganism was gradually taking over the system, while anarchy steered Nigerians in the face, adding that all these were even complicated by the current abuse of the social media which must be stopped by all means.

He also blamed Nigeria’s ordeal on colonial historical baggage, noting that “Nigeria’s amalgamation was not scripted to benefit the nation, coupled with the divide and rule practice by the British in Nigeria, and the inordinate greed and ambition of our political elites. “Absence of check and balances and culture of winner takes it all in Nigeria have made

politicians to become desperate to get it by hook-or-crook.�

While appealing to Nigerians to give peace a chance, he said “without peace there will be no Nigeria.�

At the lecture was former Chairman, Board of Governors of NIPSS, Major General Paul Omu. The Gbong Gwom Jos, Jacob Gyang Buba, and Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Prof Sonni Tyoden, who represented Governor Simon Lalong.

All the guests hailed the choice of General Abubakar, who they said was most competent to deliver such a lecture that was apt considering the trying time in Nigeria.

I Will Punish Any Leader Caught Stealing Public Funds, Buhari Vows Shola Oyeyipo Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË President Muhammadu Buhari Friday in Abuja assured Nigerians that any leader undermining the economy by denying workers their benefits, while stuffing personal accounts with public funds would not escape punishment considering the current anti-corruption dragnet.

The president who made the assertion when he received All Progressives Congress (APC) delegation from Benue State, led by Senator George Akume, said federal government’s bailout to states and Paris Club funds were basically to alleviate the sufferings of the people, describing misappropriations as unjust and unfair to workers. “I honestly don’t know how people sleep when workers have not been paid. The workers have to pay rent, buy food, send their children to school and they have healthcare to take care of. “I assure you that my main interest is all Nigerians in all parts of the country. Therefore, if anybody who tries to create

any impression that I prefer any group across ethnicity or religion let him dare me by being caught red handed stealing public funds.

I will deal with him,’’ he said.

President Buhari told the APC delegation that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had been monitoring the plight of workers across the country and utilisation of the bailout and Paris Club funds by some states.

Appreciating the visit President Buhari said: “I thank you for your courage to come and see me. This visit has resuscitated our morale.�

President Buhari said the federal government had made significant progress in diversifying the economy by investing in agriculture and encouraging more individuals and entrepreneurs to go into farming, pointing out that Nigeria would soon become self-sufficient in feeding its citizenry. “We are proud of what we have achieved with resources at our disposal,’’ he added, listing “ongoing road, rail, sea port, airport and power projects as

hallmarks of his administration’s commitment to improving lives,� he noted.

According to him, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Central Bank of Nigeria will be further motivated to work together and support all interested Nigerians to take up farming on commercial scale.

He noted that the killings across the country, including in Benue, Zamfara and Taraba, were carried out by “ungodly’’ people who had no religious or ethnic inclinations. “We know about herders. The ones we knew carried sticks, and sometimes cutlasses to cut foliage for their cattle. We now have people who carry AK 47s and pretend they are herdsmen. “We are working hard to secure our borders. We are going to see how the old cattle routes can be opened. We will control movement. Please beg our people to be patient,’’ he said.

The President pointed out that security personnel were already uncovering the network of the killers and arresting them.

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NOVEMBER 24, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

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07013940521 yemi.adebowale@thisdaylive.com

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Adebowale

Governors and the Crime of Security Vote

L

ast week, the Court of Appeal in Abuja affirmed that failure of public officers to give an account of security votes entrusted to them amounted to stealing and criminal misappropriation, adding that it is akin to genocide. This formed part of the reasons the court affirmed the conviction of a former governor of Taraba State, Jolly Nyame, who had earlier been convicted and sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment on June 30, 2018 by a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory. This is heartwarming.

Just like many other governors, Nyame took billions of Naira as security vote without accounting for it. This criminal practice is still on in virtually all our states. Many governors simply loot state treasuries in the name of security vote. With this judgment, it means that security votes must be appropriated for and accounted for.

Justice Emmanuel Agim, who read the lead judgment of the three-man appeal court panel on Nyame’s appeal, noted that in Nigeria, there was a pervasive tendency by public officers to regard or treat security votes collected by them as their personal entitlement or funds. “This belief is completely wrong,” Justice Agim said.

He added: “Any public officer in charge of such funds must either account for them or return them to the public coffers. Failure to do so amounts to stealing. Every public officer or servant who receives government or public funds as security votes must use the money for the purpose,

Nyame

or render an account showing that it has been used for such purpose or return the money to the government treasury if it has not been used.

“If the recipient of such funds cannot account for the use of such funds for the purpose it was meant and has not returned same to the government treasury, then that is clear stealing of public funds or criminal breach of trust or criminal misappropriation of funds.

“The argument put forward by the defence lawyer suggested that Nyame believed that as a governor, the security votes were his personal entitlement to be used as he pleased without any responsibility to explain how he used same and that since it is his entitlement, he cannot be said to have stolen same.

“The nature of the crimes, the fact that they are routinely committed by

public officers and servants throughout the country as a usual process of public administration, their impact on the community and people of Taraba State and the circumstances of the commission of the offences justify a deterring punishment.”

I was also impressed that Justice Agim, during the ruling, categorised corruption as genocide, saying he saw no justification for offences like murder or armed robbery with less impact to be punished with death penalty and corruption was not.

“In view of the dangerous impact of the crime of public office corruption on the state security and the generality of the people, it comes within the class of crimes against humanity like genocide, terrorism and large-scale violation of human rights.

“There is no justification for imposing capital punishment for serious crimes like murder, armed robbery with less widespread impact and punishing a more serious crime like public office corruption with more widespread impact in terms of imprisonment prescribed in Section 115, 119, 309 and 315 of the Penal Code Act. These cannot be sufficient deterrence.

But the courts are bound by law not to exceed those terms of imprisonment.”

Following the Nyame conviction, I hope the EFCC will go after exgovernors that collected security votes without accounting for them. All the governors that looted state treasuries in the name of security votes must face the court. Serving governors currently abusing security votes should prepare to face the law after their tenure.

‘Decapitated’ Boko Haram Still Causing Havoc Last week, “decapitated” Boko Haram fighters killed scores of soldiers during attacks on three military bases within three days in Borno State. Yes, that’s the truth. Military authorities have failed to respond to complaints of fatigue, insufficient supplies of food and arms by soldiers on the frontline.

So, many more of such attacks should be expected.

In the first Boko Haram attack on Sunday, scores of soldiers were killed in Metele, a remote village near the Nigerian border with Niger. A military officer who requested anonymity told AFP: “Our troops were completely routed and the terrorists captured the base after heavy fighting.” The commander of the base and three officers are believed to be among the dead. “A search is under way for survivors or further victims in the surrounding bush,” the source added.

The terrorists stormed Metele with 20 trucks and army air support did not arrive until after they had invaded the base and looted the weapons. Yes, 20 trucks! A decapitated Boko Haram was able to mobilise 20 trucks for an assault on a military base.

The same day, Boko Haram also launched a pre-dawn attack on a base in the town of Gajiram, some 80 kilometres north of Maiduguri. Fighting lasted several hours before they were repelled by our gallant soldiers. The previous day, the terrorists also attacked a military base in Mainok, Borno State, killing a soldier.

The ISWAP faction of Boko Haram asserted responsibility for the attacks in Metele and Mainok, claiming to have killed at least 42 soldiers in addition

Dan-Ali

to carting away four tanks and other vehicles.

Just on Monday, armed with guns and machetes, Boko Haram fighters stormed Mammanti village in Borno State, killing nine farmers. They abducted 12 people in an operation carried out on bicycles.

Usman Kaka, a farmer who escaped, said: “They just opened fire on us and continued to fire as we fled.” Village Chief Muhammad Mammanti said the assailants “hacked three people who resisted being abducted”. Also on Monday, seven women were snatched while working in fields near the city of Bama.

The biggest draw back to the war against Boko Haram is the persistent lies

by the government that the terrorists had been defeated. The Buhari government must face the fact that Boko Haram fighters are still very much around and very strong. As I pen this piece, close to a million Nigerians are living in excruciating condition in numerous IDP camps in Borno State. They can’t return home; their towns and villages are still controlled by Boko Haram. The terrorists are perfectly in control of three local governments in Borno State. Under Buhari’s watch, Boko Haram became the deadliest terror group in the world, with thousands of Nigerians killed in the last 42 months. Even in IDP camps, displaced Nigerians are persistently attacked and killed by Boko Haram, as seen in Rann, Muna Garage, Dalore and a number of others.

This country has been needlessly losing hundreds of its gallant soldiers to this madness called Boko Haram, yet Buhari refused to replace our inept service chiefs. Many will not forget in a hurry the massacre of soldiers in places like Sasawa, Magumeri, Malam Fatori, Gashigha, Rann, Kanama, Gamboru-Ngala, Mafa and Kunduga. What about the unprecedented and persistent killing of officers by the terrorists under Buhari? Those killed include Lt. Colonel O. Umusu, Lt. Colonel K Yusuf, Lt. Colonel Abu Ali, Lt. Colonel B. U. Umar, Captain Victor Ulasi and Group Lt. Col. A E Mamudu.

So, what are we talking about? Buhari’s war against Boko Haram has been a big mess. Our soldiers are ill-motivated and ill-equipped.

This government should stop all the propaganda about having defeated Boko Haram and proactively face this war. This is the truth that must be told.

NEMA DG, Maihaja, Should Step Aside I have spent quality time reading the House of Representatives’ report in which the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency, Mustapha Maihaja, was indicted for alleged corruption and mismanagement of funds in excess of N33 billion under his watch.

I have also meticulously read the NEMA DG’s defence. Honestly, Maihaja has no business remaining as NEMA DG for a day longer. I fully concur with the demand by the lawmakers that President Muhammadu Buhari should sack Maihaja, while anti-graft agencies should move against him and recover the funds he could not properly account for.

NEMA under Maihaja has not done well in the supply of food items to the IDPs in the North-East, despite the billions of Naira it got for this purpose. Out of the controversial N5.8 billion North-East Intervention Fund released last year for the supply of food to the IDPs, NEMA got N829 million. The poverty, hunger and disease in the various IDP camps are not justifiable considering the huge amount released to Maihaja’s NEMA, in addition to donations from international bodies.

Only God knows where the NEMA DG and his men have been sending the food to.

The report alleged that there was no evidence that the balance of 5,000 metric tons of rice worth N1.5 billion was supplied to the IDPs in the North-east as claimed by NEMA and directed that N1.5 billion should be recovered from the NEMA DG. On the 6,779 metric tons of rice donated by the Chinese Government in support of the IDPs, the lawmakers asked the ICPC, the EFCC and the police to “ensure recovery of about N800 million paid for demurrage from officers of the Ministry of Budget/National Planning, Ministry of Agriculture and NEMA.” The case against the NEMA DG regarding funds released to the agency for ecological purposes is also frightening.

The lawmakers linked specific funds to Maihaja and directed him to refund them.

For instance, out of the N1.6 billion voted for flood victims in 16 states, the DG was asked to refund N700 million because he could not convincingly defend the entire disbursement.

NEMA in one of its responses said the correct value of the rice donated by China was about N2.25 billion and that the amount spent on clearing, demurrage and storage was about N450 million and not the N800 million alleged by the lawmakers. Haba! N450 million for clearing, demurrage and storage is huge and suspicious.

NEMA is clearly feeding fat on Internally Displaced Persons in the North-east under Buhari’s watch. Last year, the lawmakers had alleged another N3.1 billion contract scandal in NEMA under Maihaja’s watch. It was alleged that supply contracts were shabbily awarded to companies without legal qualifications to get contracts from the federal government. Two of the rice contracts were said to have been awarded to companies that did not meet standard pre-qualification conditions. In separate reports adopted by the committee, the FIRS claimed that the two companies had no tax clearance certificates, and had not paid any tax to the federal government as required by law before they could be awarded contracts.

Maihaja has apparently been exploiting loopholes in the Public Procurement Act regarding emergency operations to the detriment of the country. His explanation on how he expended billions of Naira on emergency activities is uninspiring. For me, Maihaja should be man enough to step aside as NEMA DG. This critical agency of government requires an honest, pragmatic and selfless leader.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 24, 2018

SUPER SATURDAY

Juliet Ibrahim Roasted for Promoting Infidelity Nollywood cum Gallywood diva, Juliet Ibrahim is encouraging many to take controversial shots in the dark following her crashed relationship with Iceberg. The actress, who has found joy in dishing out relationship tips, is promoting infidelity in relationship, writes Omolabake Fasogbon

W

hen last month, movie star, Juliet Ibrahim boldly came out to confirm her breakup with ex-boyfriend, Iceberg, after denying it several times, not many had an inkling of the actual cause of the crash, a situation that has left many speculating. In an interview she granted Accra-based Joy Fm, she opened up, “When you are in love, you do crazy things but when things happen, you need to move on. People say and I hear all sorts of things, but people close to me know what happened. We broke up on mutual terms.”

For reasons best known to her, the single mother of one failed to say why the erstwhile admired relationship went sour, but she may have unconsciously disclosed the cause in her recent posts on Instagram that made many to lash out at her.

The multilingual actress may not have envisaged the extreme reactions that would follow her position when she wrote: “Don’t lose a good side nigga over your boyfriend. If your boyfriend was a good dude, you wouldn’t need a side nigga.”

It is no longer news that Juliet is finding a new joy in dishing out relationship tips as justified by her associated posts in recent time. Her newly found role, which is somehow circumstantial, is no doubt attracting more fans to her social media handles as they anxiously look forward to her next post.

But this time around, her piece of advice didn’t go down well with a lot of her fans, who beyond the ordinary have ascribed cultural interpretations to her expression.

In her submission, the light skinned beauty queen could have meant that there is nothing bad in keeping a secret relationship, especially if one’s partner is not promising.

This was greeted with condemnation from especially the male fans that obviously cannot stand it if another man shares their woman with them.

Her post, coming barely a month after she confirmed her breakup with her lover of two years, gave many people reasons to believe that the romantic affair went sour on account of infidelity on both sides.

Despite the loads of attack that followed the post, the 32 year -old singer refused to be penitent. Her follow up post barely 24 hours after, further proved that she meant every bit of what she said.

She wrote “Isn’t it funny how it’s okay for them to have #sidechicks but not okay for us to have #sideniggas? Application forms loading.

However, be prepared to sign a #sideniggacontract; #Goodmorning; #Unicorns; #justsaying,” Some of the comments that followed the post read: “Aunty, solve your personal problem yourself, talk to a specialist if needed, stop posting it all... now you making us think your wayward life cost you your relationship. Did he get mad when he found out your side nigga? Why are you with him if he had side chicks? Stop disturbing our peace with your wahala. You both enjoyed it while it lasted.”

Another follower wrote:”Is she indirectly telling us that her ex called it quits because he caught her with side nigga?

Juliet, what is wrong is wrong and your recent post only shows reason why ice left you. You need to work on your moral standard and stop going around trying to defend being a whore...and please you are a celeb, try and be responsible for your followers and not expose them to your level of low moral standard.

I wonder how your daughter will look at this years from now (mum was advertising to be a whore) you can as well go to the street and stand and wait for a pick up.”

A female fan added: “The more you claim to maintain your stance, the more you sound miserable...So this is the same advice you will give your female child abi? Your comments speak volumes of who you truly are.”

From records, Juliet has not really had swell romantic dealings with the opposite sex. Not too long ago, she dropped a comment that suggested she was in a new relationship. But she has remained quiet on this after fans dared her to reveal the identity of the lucky man.

Juliet has not performed below expectation in the pursuit of her career ever since she took a shot at acting in 2005. With several awards to show for this, the mother of one, early this month, again, clinched the ‘Celebrity Humanitarian Award of The Year ‘ and ‘Fans Favorite Celebrity of The Year’, both in a day, a feat that further justifies her exceptionality.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 24, 2018

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SUPERSATURDAY

Lola and P Peter eter Okoye O

Lola and Peter Okoye Celebrate Love Lola and Peter Okoye are rekindling their love and feelings with sincere words after five years of marriage, making their union story inspiring, writes Ferdinand Ekechukwu

P

resumably, we all know Peter and Paul Okoye of the famed “Psquare’ brothers.” Aside their differences, we all know both singers are married with lovely kids to show for it. Knowing that Peter is married to beautiful Lola while Paul is married to equally charming Anita complements both families. Interestingly however, the union and love story of Lola and Peter Okoye from when they first met over 16 years ago, till they finally tied the knot on Sunday, November 17, 2013, is such that has dominated the interests of many fans of the talented singers and followers of the couple.

That the relationship led to marriage, now five years down the line, makes the union sweeter even stronger each passing year.

Lola recently took to social media to serenade her hubby with kind words on the occasion of their fifth wedding anniversary. Lola in a post shared on her Instagram page, appreciated Peter for being there for their kids and her.

According to the mum of two, Peter is a husband that would take a bullet for her any day. “My dearest husband today marks five years since we made this our story official. And what a

story it is. In the many years that I have known you, what I admire the most about you is your caring heart, your kindness and humility. We have been through hell and back together but these three traits have remained a constant. It took me a long time to understand you but I thank God I now fully get you.

“You are a true example of a real Man. You have been called all sorts of names but because you know who you are and because you are confident in yourself, and because you know that nobody is dragging this role with you, words don’t bother you any longer and that I respect. Our children are blessed to have a father who puts them first in all decisions taken. They are blessed to have a father who listens to their needs and I am blessed to have a husband who will take a bullet for me any day.

“In all, I thank God for keeping us healthy, alive and content. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff.

Issues will come up but we remain humble in God’s eyes. Marriage is not a walk in the park especially when one is married to a celebrity trust me I know but we do what we can and leave the rest in God’s hands. I thank

you from the bottom of my heart for loving me unconditionally. I am not perfect. I have a lot of flaws but you have accepted me as I am. Happy Anniversary babes, I love you, zombie love. . . .”

Commending his partner, Peter recollects her role for caring for his late mum until her death. He had promised to protect her and their children. “I took a vow to defend and protect you and your beautiful children on this day five years ago and no matter what happens, you and the kids come first”, the singer wrote in the first part of his wedding anniversary note.

In the second part of his post, Peter expressed gratitude to his wife, who gave him his first wheel upon moving to Lagos.

As opposed to what had been rumoured overtime, the singer identifies himself as the parasite when they were dating. He made mention of many privileges that he enjoyed in their relationship. “We have been together for over 16 years and married for five years. You are still the same woman and I will never forget the day I met you. How you used to book shows for us and all due to the

fact that you worked in an agency.

I remember how former manager Howie-T used to tell us how nice you were to us, getting us shows and all.

“Today, the world doesn’t know all that. Instead they call you gold digger. If anyone should be called gold digger here, it should be me. I remember you gave me your official car few weeks after we moved into Lagos and started dating. That was the first time in my life experiencing a car with air conditioner and every night I would sleep inside the car. You made me a better man Lola and I owe you nothing but love and loyalty” Lola had told the story of how she and Peter met and how the relationship started. “My agency handles some of British American Tobacco brands and P’square was doing a show for us at one of our events in Enugu. Though, I had met Peter a couple of times before then, at the show, there was some chemistry.

“He asked for my number and I refused giving it to him. I told him ‘if you really want to know me, you have to find my number.’ So he took it as a task and found my number and the rest is history.”

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ÍşÍźËœ ͺ͸͚΀ Ëž THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

ASUU AND THE FUTURE OF UNIVERSITY EDUCATION Idowu Awopetu urges government to create an enabling environment for the universities to thrive

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he ďŹ rst reported reaction of the federal government, through the Minister of Education, to the ASUU strike was a declaration that the government “can’t meet ASUU’s demands nowâ€?.

This statement shows either a complete lack of appreciation or understanding of the crises facing the university system in particular and education in general.

First is that the crises are longstanding that have been left to fester by successive governments. Secondly, is the implication that the current government is also not prepared to address the problems.

The Nigeria university system is passing through the third stage of its existence.

The first phase, 1962-1975, was marked by generous funding and adequate attention paid to the universities. Facilities were provided for teaching, learning, research and recreation. The federal government was contributing between 30-50% of the recurrent budget of regional universities – ABU, UNN, Ife (now OAU) and Benin, while funding fully UI and UNILAG. The personnel, both academic and non-academic, were international in their composition with the studentship drawn from all parts of the world.

The establishment of each university was preceded by years of planning, recruitment and training of staff, and provision of infrastructure before the institutions were declared opened for students’ admission.

There was mutual respect and cooperation between the governments and the universities. The government relied on the ideas and researched knowledge emanating from the universities for the formulation of the developmental programmes of the country. In other words, the economic and social development of the country was based on the knowledge produced by the universities. The country’s development was based on the knowledge of our people.

The universities were playing their role as the site or centre of knowledge production, and the universities were funded as such.

In summary, all the basic facilities and the environment that were required for the institutions to function as universities were put in place. Students and staff thereby enjoyed a conducive environment for learning and teaching. On top of this, the relationship between the government and the universities was largely cordial.

The second phase, 1975-1999, was marked by an unplanned expansion of the university system, with the number increasing from six in 1975 to 41 in 1999. In addition, the phase was also marked by incessant intervention in the affairs of the universities by the governments of the day. The governments intervened, either directly or indirectly through its agents, in the appointments of vice-chancellors, recruitment of staff, admissions of students, development of curricular and on other occasions ordered the closure of universities and the sack and dismissal of staff and

THE GREATEST DAMAGE THAT THE LEADERSHIP OF THE COUNTRY HAS DONE TO THE NATION IS THE UNDERMINING OF OUR UNIVERSITY SYSTEM’S ABILITY TO BE THE SITE FOR KNOWLEDGE PRODUCTION

students respectively. The era also witnessed the harassment, arrest and detention of staff and students.

During this phase, underfunding became the norm with the government insisting that the universities should generate at least 60% of their required revenue. This period was largely under military rule except for the brief period of 1979-1983. The universities were under tremendous stress and pressure and this led to the exodus of many Nigerian academics and the departure of expatriate staff.

The period also witnessed many strikes and disruptions provoked largely by the anti-intellectual environment created by the military.

The current phase, 2000- present, has seen the ascendancy of anti-democratic and anti-intellectual leadership in the country and these have been extended to the universities. Every effort to insulate the universities from these forces is countermanded by the political leadership of the country. The University of Ilorin situation illustrates this phenomenon clearly. All the ills earlier identified as confronting the universities have become more pronounced.

Deliberate underfunding of public universities, the creation of ethno-varsities by converting mushroom colleges into universities by state governments and the promotion of private universities have contributed in no small way to the deterioration in our universities.

But by far, the greatest damage that the leadership of the country has done to the nation is the undermining of our university system’s ability to be the site for knowledge production. This has led to the loss of confidence in our people that we as a nation have the ability to develop our country.

This is why our youths travel abroad to secure employment for which they are paid a fraction of the salaries paid to citizens who do the same jobs. How our leaders do not see that we are using our resources to train our children only to let them go abroad to service other economies beats my imagination. By encouraging this we are subsidising other economies.

SAP, NEPAD, NEEDS, MDGs and the NERGP are foreignmotivated; they did not work, they have not worked and will not work. That is why ASUU has been agitating for the past 38 years that our universities be adequately funded.

The ASUU demands encapsulate the ideal that our university system be the site of knowledge production; that our universities are not only to teach but are also to produce knowledge through research and that this knowledge be used for national development.

This is why the ASUU demands can’t wait and education bank or capital market is not the answer or solution to the crises facing our universities.

The solution lies in the government’s resolve to invest heavily in education and create an enabling environment for the universities to thrive by abrogating laws and reversing policies that stifle our universities from being knowledge centres and teaching institutions.

INTERROGATING ATIKU’S POLICY PLAN Atiku Abubakar’s policy document has set the agenda for an issue-based campaign, writes Garba Umar

J

ust like every other seasonal activity, it is predictable that the 2019 election cycle will dawn. What was not predictable, perhaps until recently, are the characters whose faces will be the emblem of this particular political season. In terms of the conďŹ guration of the political parties that will jostle for votes, there isn’t much difference from what was in 2015, as the two leading political parties remain the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) - save for the fact that this time around, the erstwhile opposition party is now the ruling party.

And, this time around, President Muhammadu Buhari is the incumbent and he’s being challenged chiefly by the candidate of the opposition PDP, former Vice-President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar. There is motley of other political parties with candidates also campaigning for president.

However, if popular opinion amongst Nigerians is anything to go by, the 2019 election will be won and lost on the merit of the plan of action that each of the presidential candidates is able to articulate to the electorate.

Perhaps this is the thinking in the camp of Atiku Abubakar, the PDP candidate who recently announced the kick-start of his campaign with the launch of his policy document. The document, which is a compendium of proposals on action plan of the former vice-president if he is elected president, was unveiled on Monday after a live social media interaction with Nigerians.

A press release from the campaign organization of the PDP presidential candidate had quoted that “The intention (of the Atiku Campaign Organisation) is to take (its) policy directly to Nigerians and to register the belief of Atiku Abubakar that it will take

the collective efforts of every Nigerian to rebuild the country. That is why (they) want Nigerians to access the policy directly and ultimately take ownership of it.�

A review of the document shows that the policy covers a wide area of concern including jobs creation, infrastructure development, agriculture, restructuring, youth and women development, technological innovation, education, healthcare, security and foreign affairs.

The entire compendium is tied around the JOBS acronym of Atiku’s presidential campaign, which essentially entails employment generation, creating opportunity for all-inclusive prosperity, being united and security. The plan supports the encouragement of the private sector to create employment through an initiative called National Entrepreneurship Development and Job Creation Programme.

It also provides specific finance and strategic support for job creation in the entertainment industry; transformation of the culture and tourism sectors into one of the big earners of foreign exchange and job creation and review of corporate tax rates and capital gains tax in order to lower transaction costs in the capital market.

Under infrastructure, the policy proposes increased investments in road and rail construction, water supply and sanitation, power and oil refining; reforming the power sector with goal of producing 20,000 megawatts by 2030 and 50,000MW by 2050; create Special Infrastructure Office to help speed construction and implementation; using private sector, establish an Infrastructure Debt Fund (IDF) with an initial funding of US$20b, mobilising domestic and international private resources to finance

and deliver large projects across all sectors of the economy; build small refineries in the northern parts of the country, increase oil refining and oil products from under 0.5% to 2% of GDP; construct up to 5,000km of modern railways through privatisation, PPPs, and public investments; more than double investment funding from 15% to 35% of GDP in addition to licensing of minigrids, including solar as solutions for power generation.

On infrastructure, the policy seeks for an ambitious increase of the nation’s stock of infrastructure from $150bn to approximately $600bn (contrary to the $90bn being reported in a section of the media), which will require a commitment to invest a minimum of $35bn annually for the next five years. However, funding for infrastructure development will not come from public budgets only. Government will incentivize the private sector to set up an Infrastructure Development Fund with an initial funding (privately mobilized) of $20bn while many more projects will be birthed via PPPs. In agriculture, the policy suggests the construction of farm to market roads; improved farming with modernization and mechanization of small-scale agriculture; transforming agricultural sector into a viable enterprise creating rural wealth and farmer prosperity; investment in local agric-processing clusters by offering concessional financing, tax breaks and seed funds and reviewing import duty on machinery and equipment for agricultural processing and for export production.

Perhaps the most ambitious component of the policy is on the knotty issue of restructuring. Under the Atiku’s plan, within the first hundred days of his administration, his government will put in place a National

Committee for the Devolution of Powers.

There is also a plan to mobilize the legislature to effect constitutional amendments to allow greater powers to states and local governments. Relocating the Niger Delta Ministry from Abuja to the Niger Delta making it closer to stakeholders and beneficiaries.

There is also a recommendation for an increase in the number of government appointments made to young people and women to 40 per cent. It also targets youth, including graduates, early school leavers, and the massive numbers of uneducated youth not in schools for employment or training and provision of microfinance and financing schemes specifically targeted at youth and women.

The education plan of the PDP presidential candidate includes the development of an allinclusive nationwide educational system with focus on young girls and special needs students. There is also a provision for the utilization of technical colleges and vocational schools to produce skills and competencies for innovation and idea creation.

Also, the development and promotion of science and technical education to create skills for the new economy.

On a general note, the Atiku policy document dubbed the ‘Peoples Policy’ appears robust and well- articulated. It is however expected that policy experts within and outside the country will begin to interrogate the policy which, according to the PDP presidential candidate, had taken 18 months of rigorous brainstorming to incubate, on its merits and demerits. But beyond the narratives that will trail the review of the policy document is that its very existence has set the ball rolling for an issue-based campaign in the 2019 election season and that is a very welcome development.

Dr Umar wrote from Abuja

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ÍşÍźËœ ͺ͸͚΀ Ëž THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Please, why?

Time for an Issue-based campaign

Child Protection: Who’s on the other Side?

I

n the game of football, there are two sides, each seeking to win the game. There is a ball being tossed back and forth until the referee’s whistle marks the end of the game. The game of life is similar to that of football but here the ball represents children. While many people are introduced into their lives there are only two teams; those who seek to take advantage of their innocence and those who don’t.

As the world evolves, protecting children has never been so important. The violation of the rights of children comes in many forms (violence, child labour, trafficking, sexual exploitation, female genital mutilation, child marriage, lack of official recording of births, etc.) and millions of children around the world experience the worst kinds of rights violations (UNICEF). In the present day, child sexual abuse has become like a cancer eating into the very fabric of our society.

Worldwide, around 15 million adolescent girls aged 15 to 19 have experienced forced sex in their lifetime; nine million of these girls had been victimized within the past year. Of those abused, nine in 10 reported that they experienced forced sex in the hands of someone known to them. Unfortunately, only 1% of adolescent girls who have experienced forced sex reached out for professional help. Boys are at risk too but many of the atrocities against them are largely unreported (UNICEF).

In Nigeria, according to the 2014 Violence Against Children Survey (VACS), 16.4% of females and 8.4% of males aged 13 to 17 years experienced sexual abuse in the 12 months prior to the survey. Of those reporting sexual abuse in the past 12 months, 64.1% of females and 76.0% of males experienced multiple incidents of sexual abuse over the course of their lifetime. Whereas, 47% of female and 34.9% of male reported cases took place at age 13 or earlier. The abused children frequently named neighbours as the last perpetrators of the abuse.

Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) takes place multiple times every day but many are unreported as evidenced in Nigeria. People who sexually abuse children can be found at home, in schools, churches, mosques, recreation centres, youth sports leagues, and any other places children gather. Surprisingly, abusers can be and often are other children. With CSA, the stranger danger rule does not apply. Those we contend with are often closer to the children than we think, they manage to gain their trust and then strike.

We cannot always be with our children. Hence, we have to equip them with knowledge. It is important to help them understand when a touch is predatory and intrusive. Children - both boys and girls - need to be able to identify their private parts by name and

know when contact with these organs is tantamount to abuse. They must also be aware of what to do when this occurs - report to a trusted adult. This is where educating the school, parents, and religious leaders, amongst others, about the sensitivities of child protection becomes important.

Also, laws will need to be amended to account for current realities. CSA goes beyond penetration to include inappropriate touching or fondling of private parts, illicit exposure of children to sexual content, which may be a form of grooming before the actual act and so on. These need to be accounted for in our laws. A child need not go through the painful experience of forced sex before we are able to take action. We can no longer bury our heads in the sand and act like this is not happening around us. CSA is a global epidemic with dire effects and should be treated as such. Statistics reveal that delinquency, crime, substance abuse, teenage pregnancies, amongst other vices are more prevalent in adolescents with a history of child sexual abuse than their counterparts.

Often times, the victims eventually become the abusers if the situation is not managed properly, and in most cases, it is not.

Bolanle Otukoya is a Child Protection advocate

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S campaigns for Presidential and National Assembly elections kicked off on November 18 ahead of the February polls, it is requisite that all participants must play the game by the rules of the electoral umpire. To serve the people shouldn’t be by might. If not, it is no longer for service-delivery but selďŹ sh interests. The overall essence of politicking is to sell ideas and dreams to the people for evaluation. And whatever decision the people opted is within their powers and should be respected.

In democracy, the majority will always have their way and nobody is accorded powers to make the right choices for the people. This accounts for the deďŹ nition of democracy as ‘government of, for and by the people’.

Unequivocally, the crux of democracy is allowing the people to freely choose their leaders and representatives without any form of intimidations or molestations irrespective of soundness of their decisions.

Remarkably, President Muhammadu Buhari while launching the ‘Next-Level’ a moment ago at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa charged all the seated guests to consciously enthrone altruism, decorum and civility while going about with campaigns, and particularly jogged everyone’s memory that Nigeria is our only country, and therefore to play politics with sense

T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR CHIKA AMANZE-NWACHUKU MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE

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

of responsibilities and patriotism instead of setting the nation ablaze. That is outstanding leadership and statesmanship. Immediately President Buhari made the statement, I instantaneously recalled some years back when the then president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo in a similar gathering ahead of his second term bid audaciously declared ‘do-or-die’ politics with the justification of consolidating his purported achievements in the first term for the masses. That is a blunder and anti-democratic. No leader chooses to lead the people by force. If a mandate is not freely given, it is nothing else but a junta.

Interestingly, the Buhari administration fashioned the event to showcase the journey so far since 2015 the government was inaugurated vis-à -vis achievements. As the administration’s major area of concentrations are on economy, infrastructural development, security and fight against corruption, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN) rendered his stewardship on significant attainments of the tripartite ministry under his control. His counterpart in the Ministry of Transportation, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi followed suit and acquainted the guests with actions his ministry embarked upon as approved by the president and Federal Executive Council including completion of numerous abandoned projects; some abandoned as far back as 30 years ago.

Ditto the Special Adviser to the President on Social Investment, Mrs. Maryam Uwais that stringently used few minutes to highlight on the achievements of her section.

Others shortlisted to speak including Minister of Agriculture were unable due to time constraints. Undeniably, despite the fact it was APC government’s event, no speaker chanted the usual party’s salutation ’APC – Change’. Again, neither did Comrade Adams Oshiomhole nor Festus Keyamo (SAN) as APC-National Chairman and official spokesperson of MBCO respectively, addressed the guests. Then, the service chiefs in attendance probably to render account on the security situation in the country in President Buhari’s three-and-half year’s administration left the venue prior to the commencement of the event. As some believed, the sudden exodus of the service chiefs from the event was to prevent allusions from some quarters over partisanship by their presence. Incidentally, as envisaged, the insinuations came from the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar questioning presence of service chiefs at such event at State House.

Carl Umegboro, Lagos

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NEWS

In Brief One Dies as 7-Storey Building Collapses

Aseven-storeybuildingunder constructionhascollapsed inPort Harcourt, Rivers State, Friday evening leaving one dead and some occupants trapped.THISDAYgathered that thebuildinglocated alongWoji Road,GRA PhaseII,Port Harcourt collapsed at about 4.30p.m.Asat presstime, rescue workerswerestill battlingto freepeopletrapped under therubbles.When contacted, Mr. Martins Ejike, South-South Zonal Coordinator, National EmergencyManagement Agency(NEMA) ,said officersof theagency werealso part of therescueteam.PolicePublicRelationsOfficer,Rivers StateCommand,Nnamdi Omoni,confirmed theincident.“Theworrynow is not about ascertainingthelevel casualties.Rescueoperationsisongoing.�

However,unconfirmed sourcessaid at least 11personshad beenrescued fromdebrisat thesceneof theincident just asthenumber of thedead remainsuncertain.

Seven Months Baby Abandoned in Church

WORKING WITH POWER...

L-R: Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International Nigeria, FGBMFI President, Ifeanyi Odedo; Governor of Lagos, Akinwunmi Ambode and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF Boss Mustapha during their National Convention in Lagos...recently

AsevenmonthsoldbabyhasbeenabandonedinaCatholicparishbyanunknown person in Nnewi, Anambra State. The Anambra State Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Haruna Mohammed announced this in a press release madeavailabletojournalistsinAwka.Mohammedsaidintherelease entitled ‘abandoned and found child’, said, “On the 12/11/2018 at about 450p.m., One Rev.FatherChristopherEzimo,maleofSt.MartinDeporresCatholicChurch Umudim,NnewibroughttoNnewidivisionasevenmonthsoldsickbabyboy allegedtohavebeenabandonedinsidethechurchbyunknownperson.�Hesaid thescenewasvisitedbyPoliceoperativesattachedtoJuvenileandWelfareunit ofthedivisionandthebabywasrushedtoNnamdiAzikweUniversityTeaching HospitalNnewiwhereheispresentlyreceivingtreatment.“However,thecase isunderinvestigationtoascertaincircumstancessurroundingtheincidentand effort is ongoing to trace the biological mother of the baby.� The Command implored the public to avail her with useful information that could help trace theparentsof thechild to report.

Female Genital Mutilation Abolition FG Allegedly Plotting to Plant 800 Guns in Rivers to Destabilise State, Alleges Wike Ernest Chinwo Ă“Ă˜ Ă™ĂœĂž Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂž Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has raised the alarm that the federal government had concluded plans to plant 800 guns in the state, with the objective of destabilising it.

In a statement signed by Special Assistant to the Rivers State Governor on Electronic Media, Simeon Nwakaudu, the governor was quoted as saying that the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government resolved to

implement the plot during her last security meeting.

He stated that the intelligence came from credible sources that were privy to the ugly plot against Rivers State.

The governor called on the international community to take note of the proposed illegal action of the APC federal government, which was aimed at creating crisis in the state.

He regretted that the federal government had continued to work

deliberately to compromise the security of Rivers State.

Wike urged the people of the state to remain calm, but vigilant, adding that the “evil machinations of the APC federal government� will not distract the state from delivering on her constitutional responsibilities to Rivers people.

But in swift reaction, the state chapter of the APC described the allegations as blatant lies designed to divert attention from the internal wrangling within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The State Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mr. Chris Finebone, in a statement issued in Port Harcourt

yesterday, accused Wike of spinning blatant falsehood. “He (Wike) should know that no right thinking person will believe that the President Buhari-led federal government will under any circumstances embark on what the governor is conjuring either against Rivers State or indeed any state. “To conceal the confusion in their camp, Wike and his officials contrive all sorts of fantasies just to detract and deflect attention from APC Tackles Senate over Kwara By-Election their internal crises. Sometimes, the TheAllProgressivesCongress(APC)hasquestionedthepowerstheSenatehas governor resorts to wild allegations toprobetheconductoflastSaturday’sHouseofRepresentatives’by-electionin to create a facade over his actual KwaraState.Thepartydescribeditasanabuseofthepowersofthelegislative actions,� Finebone said. armofgovernment.APC’sHouseofRepresentativescandidate,AlhajiRaheem Olawuyi-Ajuloopinemergedvictoriousattheelection.Inastatementissuedon FridaybytheNationalPublicitySecretaryoftheAPC,MallamLanreIssa-Onilu, the party alleged that the Senate leadership was seeking to investigate the by-election which took place in the home state of the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki. “We also find it curious that other by-elections conducted in that despite the huge loss KatsinaandBauchiStateshadnotreceivedsimilarattentionfromtheSenate,� recorded by the farmers in the it said. APC said that through their votes, the Kwara electorate had spoken last season “we will still have clearly on the new political direction in the state. “Kwara State has suffered bumper harvest.�

Aside from the assistance enoughoftheselfishmachinationsofaself-appointedleader. given by the state and the one expected from the federal Ki-tack Lim’s Second Term government, Dukku said some of The Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety the farmers that registered with Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside, has congratulated the Secretarythe Nigeria Agricultural Insur- GeneraloftheInternationalMaritimeOrganisation(IMO),Ki-tackLim,onhis ance Corporation were already re-election as head of the specialised United Nations body. Dakuku, who is receiving compensation which also the Chairman of the Association of African Maritime Administrations he said would further cushion (AAMA),saidinacongratulatorymessageonFridaythatLim’sre-electionbya the effect of the disaster on the unanimousvotewasanaffirmationofthemember-states’confidenceinhim. farmers most of whom got loans TheNIMASADirector-Generalstated,“Whathissecondtermmeansisstability to embark on the venture. inexecutionofthesignificantgrowthpathofthemaritimeindustrygloballyand “Agriculture is a serious busi- morespaceforandattentiontodevelopingnations.�Headdedinhismessage ness, we are advising farmers to totheSecretaryGeneral,“Icongratulateandwishyouwellinthesecondphase have insurance cover for their farms because of this type of ofyourworkasSecretary-GeneraloftheInternationalMaritimeOrganisation (IMO)forthenextfouryears.Youremergencebyaunanimousvoteofthe40 disaster,� he said.

Dukku, however, said that member-statesontheIMOrulingcouncilisasignificantconfirmationofthe despite the flooding of the hugeconfidencereposedinyourwork,strength,andcharacter.� riverine areas “the people are still refusing to be relocated Seadogs Empower Karu Orphanage TheNationalAssociationofSeaDogs(NAS),PyratesConfraternity,Mondayin upstream. “Immediately the flood Abuja,chargedtheBuhari-ledadministrationtodoallitcantoreformorphansubsided they have returned to agehomesacrossthecountrythroughtheintroductionofsoleadministration the hitherto flooded communi- into the system. The group observed that it had put machinery in motion to ties, these people have serious actualisethereform,addingthat,itwouldalignwitheverygovernmentefforts attachments to their ancestral at ensuring that the less privilege in the country have a guaranteed future at homes.� allfront.NASrevealedthatitwouldpartnerwithDestinedChildInternational The commissioner said the Foundation, an Abuja based NGO to give educational empowerment in the tractor hiring scheme revived by area of French tutoring to children from the Abuja orphanage home in Karu. the government in this year’s planting season assisted many President,Saharawingoftheassociation,Mr.StanleyNwodo,madethecharge farmers as over N142m was during the association’s visit to the Motherless babies’ home in Karu, where theydonatedfooditemsworthmillionstothechildren.Nwodo,disclosedthat generated from the scheme. his members were at the orphanage to show some love to the children who

JTF Arrests Militant Leader, Destroys 300 Illegal Refineries Niger Puts Losses to Flooding He said the activation of Sylvester Idowu Ă“Ă˜ Ă‹ĂœĂœĂ“ Operation 777 was aimed One of the most wanted at further reinvigorating the at N5bn militant leaders in the Niger Delta, identified as Gift Apollo, has been arrested by the Joint Task Force (JTF) code-named Operation Delta Safe under â€?Operation 777â€? activated by Defence headquarters to rid the region of criminals.

Commander of JTF (OPDS) Rear Admiral Apochi Suleiman said at a press briefing at the Nigerian Navy Ship NNS Delta in Warri yesterday, that the suspect, a member of ‘Kill and Bury’ gang also known as ‘Thousand’, was picked up during the exercise.

He disclosed that the gang, headed by Apollo, was responsible for the attack and death of soldiers deployed in Abua/ Odua sometime in August this year adding “with the arrest of the criminal, effort is ongoing to arrest other members of the notorious gang.� Admiral Suleiman, who was accompanied

by Commander, Sector One of JTF, Colonel Alhassan Grema; Maritime Components Commander, Commodore Z S Mohammed and Commander of NNS Delta, Warri, Commodore Ibrahim Dewu, maintained that Operation 777 had been successful since its activation on October 18 following a Defence headquarters directive.

operations of JTF with a view to disrupting the activities of criminal elements ahead of 2019 general elections and Christmas and New Year seasons. “Accordingly, the operation focuses on curbing crude oil theft, illegal refining of petroleum products, illegal oil bunkering, communal clashes, kidnapping, piracy/ sea robbery and cultism as well as to eliminate militancy within the Joint Operational Area,� he said.

Recounting the achievements of the exercise, Admiral Suleiman disclosed that over 300 illegal refineries, 156 locally manufactured boats known as Cotonou boats and 1,085 surface tanks had been destroyed adding that JTF conducted anti-illegal bunkering/anti-illegal refining operations at Okaki community in Bayelsa State “which has become notorious for crude oil theft and illegal bunkering activities along AGIP pipeline.

He also said seven AGIP maintenance workers, kidnapped while carrying out an assessment of a blasted well head at Azuzuama council in Bayelsa State on October 5, were rescued while several militants/ kidnappers camps were also destroyed.

Laleye Dipo Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜Ă˜Ă‹

Niger State Government has aggregated the loss of agricultural produce as a result of this year’s flood at N5 billion, even as the government lamented that over 4,000 hectares of cultivated farmland were submerged.

In addition, the government said 12 local governments were “seriously affected� while the effect on seven others “is negligible.�

Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Muhammad Haruna Dukku who disclosed this while briefing newsmen in Minna on Friday, however, did not name the affected local governments but explained that not less than 20,000 farmers were affected by the flood.

Alhaji Dukku said the statistics and other information pertaining to the disaster had been presented to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture which requested for such information from all the states affected by the 2018 flood. “We are awaiting assistance for the farmers from the federal government but before the assistance comes, we are trying to support the farmers with improved seeds so that they can embark on dry season farming.�

The commissioner assured

TheUnitedNationsChildren’sFund(UNICEF)hashailedtheabolitionoffemale genitalmutilationandCutting(FGM/C)inabout28communitiesinImoState, evenasthebodyrestateditscommitmenttowardsthepromotionoftherights andwellbeingofallchildrenacrosstheglobe.ThechiefofUNICEF,Enugufield office,Mr.IbrahimContehwhomadethecommendationsaidthattogether,the organisation,withherpartnersworkin190countriesandterritoriestotranslate thiscommitmentintopracticalaction,focusingspecialeffortsonreachingthe mostvulnerableandexcludedchildrentothebenefitofallchildrenworld-wide.

ContehstatedthisinhisremarksontheoccasionofthePublicDeclarationof theAbandonmentofFemaleGenitalMutilation/Cutting(FGM/C)bythe28 communitiesintheNgorOkpalaLocalGovernmentofImoState.Hesaidthat UNICEF as the agency mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote the rights of the children was committed in supporting partnerships and initiatives towards abandonment of FGM/C in all communities in the state. “UNICEFcommendsthetraditionalleader’scouncil,communityandfaithbased organisations,ourimplementingpartners,theNationalOrientationAgency (NOA),MinistryofWomenAffairsandSocialDevelopmentmembersofthe ImostateTechnicalCommitteeonFGMAbandonmentamongotherswhose assiduous,interventionscontributedinempoweringthecommunitiestodeclare abandonment of FGM beingwitnessed today,� hestated.

THISDAYt SATURDAY NOVEMBER 24, 2018

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Plus

Abiodun Oluwole My Grandfather Wanted Me to Be an Ifa Priest, But My Father Handled it with Diplomacy

pg. 20

GLOBAL SOCCER FAIRGROUND AUTO SHOWBIZFLAIR

Tolu Bally

I’m a Hopeless Lover… I Tend to Seek for Perfection, Forgetting That I’m Not Perfect Myself

pg. 29 pg. 36 pg. 38 pg. 45

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 24, 2018

PLUS

I’m a Hopeless Lover… I Tend to Seek for Perfection, Forgetting That I’m Not Perfect Myself Fashion designer and stylist, Tolu Bally has inscribed her name in gold as one of the best in her generation with her brand, 2207. She has in a lot of ways, redefined how pieces and colours are stiched together through her creativity and love for art. Within the space of two years, the mother of one has not only worked with loads of top celebrities in Nigeria but has also won some awards. Being one of the most sought-after stylists and designer in the country, Tolu has continued to invest in her craft, making everyone who rocks 2207 a fashion piper in its own right. As part of activities marking the 2nd anniversary of 2207, the young entrepreneur speaks to Azuka Ogujiuba about her journey so far, its highs and lows, the celebrities she would like to work with and single parenting

H

ow did fashion designing and styling start for you?

It started after the birth of my son. I used to have a boutique but I wanted to do something that was much more challenging and can showcase my talent because fashion has always been my thing.

So, I just had to take to the next level by having my own fashion line. Basically, the birth of my son gave me the courage to go for my vision.

I’ve always loved fashion and always been into fashion, so I know fashion is something I want to do. It’s a legacy I want to leave for my son and for my name. I’ve always wanted to inspire the way people dress. I love fashion, I love colours, I love things looking beautiful, I love designs. I just love everything about fashion. The birth of my son just generated the urge to start my own brand and go after what I actually wanted.

Who influenced your decision to go into fashion designing?

My dad was a fashion designer when he was alive. I really love the way Kelly Rowland styles herself even though she’s not a fashion designer but I like her and I see myself in her every time. A lot of designers influenced me including my sister in law, she’s a top notch fashion designer and I love the way she treats her clothes. So, I always said I wanted to be like her. So yeah, she really inspired me.

And a lot of Nigerian designers inspired me as well.

So, how has the journey been for two years?

The journey has been very very very good, its just two years and we haven’t even started. I’m just so grateful for where we are and for the people that have been involved with 2207, from friends to celebrities; basically everyone that has been involved with 2207. its been a wonderful journey so far. So, that’s why we are celebrating our anniversary to give back to the people, to appreciate them.

What have been the challenges so

NOVEMBER 24, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

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PLUS I’ve Always Wanted to Inspire the Way People Dress… I Love Fashion, I Love Colours far?

When it comes to fashion designing in Nigeria, most people will tell you that the tailors and other production people are the main challenges that we face, particularly someone like me. I faced a lot regarding tailors but right now, I’ve been able to go above that to find solution even though its not a permanent solution but at least we are getting there.

ing fashion designers?

They shouldn’t go for the money.

Money will come but it shouldn’t be the number one reason for going into fashion designing. It should be the passion for fashion designing, you need to know why you are into fashion designing. Going into fashion designing for money is a wrong step, it should be the passion, don’t be shy, if there’s anyone you want to approach, approach them but you have to be sure you are giving them the value they paid for and they want. You need to know the product you are selling is the product they want to buy. Imagine me ruining my first opportunity with a celebrity with a bad design or fabric? It will just spoil everything. So, you need to have the right product, get a good marketing strategy and make sure there’s a passion. Money will definitely come. It shouldn’t be the reason you are in it. This shouldn’t be a motivating factor.

So you never faced financial challenges?

To me, fashion designing does not require a lot of financial backing. I only got like two machines and some fabrics and that was how I started. For me, its not capital intensive so I wont talk about the financial part of it. It’s not really an issue, all you need is just the passion to start. But another thing I will talk about is electricity problem, which every major industry is facing in Nigeria because you literally have to turn on the generator back to back to produce our garments.

Favourite designers?

For Nigerian designers, Style Temple and Deola Sagoe. For my traditional attire and for my international, I’ll go for Zara, Dolce Gabbana and Gucci.

When and why did you decide to start working with celebrities?

I wouldn’t say it was part of the plan.

The initial plan was just for me to bring out my brand. I wouldn’t say I sat down and thought about it. I think I started basically by styling a particular celebrity, Toyin Abraham, which I did with my fabrics and people liked what I did and then celebrities started coming to meet me, and that was how 2207 started basically. When celebrities see that you are doing a job well and you deliver, they begin to associate themselves with you, that’s it. At the initial stage of my career, around the first year, I will practically send messages to celebrities that I have a brand called 2207 and I did a lot of that for the first year but now they come to me to buy. I style them and they believe in me and believe in my brand unlike before when I had to convince them to wear my brand. Now, it doesn’t require that much stress. Again, we are like a family now and I appreciate them How did you come up with the name 2207 By Tbally?

2207 is my son’s birthday. It’s the 22nd of July and like I said, the inspiration came from his birth, because I realised giving birth to my child, being a single mum, having a boutique kept me in the right state of mind to start something that the next four generations will remember that our great grandmother started the 2207 brand and I want it to be like Zara and the likes. So, that made me to go back to my drawing table and figure out what to do for myself. Fashion is the only thing I know even though I was involved in psychology but fashion is all. I just needed to take it to the next level and bring out the passion burning in me.

Tell us the celebrities you’ve worked with?

I’ve worked with quite a number of celebrities, I’ve worked with Ini Edo, Toyin Abraham, Bolanle Olukanmi, Beverly Naya, Omotola Jolade Ekehinde, Lilian Esoro, Lilian Afe, Stephanie Coker, Linda Osifo. I have worked with a lot, I can’t even remember but I’m so grateful for each and everyone that believed in me and my brand.

So how do you get the celebrities to work with you?

Like I said, it’s about trusting the brand and making the right cloth for the right body. So, at the initial stage, I had to try and reach out to a lot of people but the thing is when someone is wearing my piece and people ask, ‘where did you get it from?’ and they say ‘2207 by Tolu Bally.’

So, its basically referrals through them but mind you, I have a lot of clients that are not celebrities. Like 70 per cent of my clients are not celebrities. So, it’s not just celebrities.

How has it been working with celebrities, knowing that some might be quite rude?

I haven’t worked with any rude celebrity. I have been lucky. It also depends on the kind of person you are, I always try to build good relationships. So, I haven’t had

Can you tell us about your biggest struggle with being a single mother and how has motherhood influenced your social lifestyle?

At the beginning, this was such a big deal for me because I am not good at making decision and not a good planner. I am more of a last minute person. I struggled with making decisions that had to do with my son during the 1st and 2nd year of his birth. Always thinking of what’s best for him and how to go about that. But I guess I am used to it now and I have a great family that helps me when I’m stuck.

And when it comes to motherhood.

I wasn’t prepared for the challenges, especially being a single mum. I didn’t know it comes with a lot. I suffered from post-natal depression but glad I am very okay now. But motherhood has molded me into this industrious super woman and fighter that I am now. I go for what I want and I am bolder, more responsible and see life differently now than before. Life threw me lemons and I make lemonade out of it.

any rude encounter with anyone so far.

It depends on your personality, the way you are calm and you know what you are doing. We are human beings. I have never had any bad encounter.

How do you feel being one of Nigeria’s most celebrated stylist?

The thing is, I don’t even see myself as one, I don’t put that in my head. I have never even thought of it before. A lot of people tell me but I don’t take them seriously. I don’t see myself as one but I really appreciate. Maybe because I just see myself as a normal person but I am glad that people contact me but I just don’t let that bother me. I am just Tolu Bally that loves fashion that loves what she’s doing and that sees herself in a better place in the next couple of years. My vision basically is to reach where I want to in life, I don’t think about the fame surrounding the name and the brand. I have never thought about it So which celebrities would you like to work with?

I will like to work with Tiwa Savage. I’m a huge fan of her. I will like to work with Rita Dominic and Kate Henshaw, she’s my celebrity crush. Then intentional, everyone wants to work with the Kardashians definetly then I have blown. So by then you can add me to one of the celebrated celebrities in Nigeria, when I work with the likes of Beyonce.

If you are to define fashion designing in few words, what would it be?

I will call it the art of life, I won’t say

fashion designing but designing generally is the art of life. Imagine seeing women with different bodies, wearing the same thing that fits their bodies so well. You know we women have different types of bodies so as a fashion designer, you have to be able to cater for those bodies.

What makes 2207byTBally different from other brands?

I think 2207 plays with colours a lot, we love to play with colours and our aesthetics are quite different because we have a mixture of African fusion and contemporary fusion so you really can’t place 2207. You can see someone wearing an African fusion which is made by 2207 and you can see someone wearing a jumpsuit which is foreign and its 2207 as well. We love colours So after the anniversary, what’s next for 2207ByTbally?

The next designs are really breath-taking and we plan to take 2207 global. We have everything we need, we have the strategy to take it out. We believe it’s time to take it beyond Nigeria, beyond Africa to the world and just go international. Like what I said, I want to be like the likes of Zara, I said Zara because, they have a lot of stores around the world. So I hope and believe 2207 will also have stores around Nigeria and the world at large. As from next year, we will start working on that and also make some designs for people over 40.

You all should watch out for 2207 next year.

What advise do you have for upcom-

What gives you an edge over competitors?

I will say the grace of God. God has been so good to me. Then, secondly, I will say consistency. 2207 has been consistent in its designs and also we have great and loyal clients that always love to wear our brand and proud of it.

Despite being successful and hardworking, why are you still single. What are the things you look out for in a man?

Hmmm I really wish I had an answer to this. The funniest part is I am a hopeless lover. I can’t deal with a nonentity. I like smart men. Not a hardworker but a smart worker. A romantic man because I am a real sucker for love. My friends always tell me my type of man is fictional. I tend to seek for perfection, forgetting that I am not perfect myself. And to be honest, maybe because I have a child, I am more particular about being happy and being a great mother to him than anything else now. Marriage will come and with the right person because I don’t want to be cajoled with the norms of the society and get married for the wrong reasons How do you deal with your son’s inquisiveness?

My son is a very very smart child and yes you’re right, he asks a lot of questions that sometimes I am like ‘where is that coming?’ He once asked if I am a single mum?

Kids are quite smart these days and parents must be careful to strike a balance between not ignoring them and providing answers to selective questions, which answers are appropriate to their age as well as aiding their development in the right direction. I evaluate the reasons for his curiosity by engaging him and providing answers I deem required.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 24, 2018

PLUS

Abiodun Oluwole My Grandfather Wanted Me to Be an Ifa Priest, But My Father Handled it with Diplomacy Call Abiodun Francis Oluwole, a retired professor of Physics an Innovator/genius, you would be right. He is a man of many firsts, whose researches and successes have attracted international attention and accolades. Through sheer ingenuity, the Professor is known to have built an Optical Pumping Laboratory, which was the first modern Physics Research Laboratory in Nigeria. He speaks with ADEDAYO ADEJOBI on life at 80, his achievements in nuclear energy, marriage and patriotic gestures

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ÍşÍźËœ ͺ͸͚΀ Ëž THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

PLUS My Grandfather Wanted Me to Be an Ifa Priest, But My Father Handled it with Diplomacy The Man Called Prof. Oluwole rof. Abiodun Aladura Francis Oluwole was born in 1938 into the Oluwole Ologbosere family of Ijare, Ifedore Local Government, Ondo State. It was a polygamous family with 13 surviving siblings.

As expected in such settings, a roaster was kept for cooking with wives taking turn to demonstrate their culinary skills. In spite of its size, every member of the family ate together as one household from the same pot. No member of the family demonstrated this kinship better than Oluwole and his close half-sister, who interchanged breastfeeding with either of their mothers, who incidentally were cousins.

At age two, Oluwole started living with his paternal grandfather and this stimulated some level of intimacy between the duo, despite the difference in their ages. His friendship with his grandfather accorded him privileges like serving as an escort to town meetings, and acquiring deep knowledge on classified family information and history. Literarily, he washed his hands clean and was pronounced fit to feast with the elders.

Similarly, the interaction with his grandfather came with its baggage; inhaling a lot of hydrocarbon at the early stage of life because his grandfather’s room had the fireside lit all day and night with no ventilation. The only exit was the door.

This may have contributed significantly to his presentation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), such as Asthma, that plagued him in later life.

Likewise, he suffered a year delay in school enrollment following his grandfather’s insistence to have him build a career as an Ifa priest. His grandfather insisted he must be an “Ifa Priest�. Thankfully, his father addressed the impasse using a diplomatic option. By agreeing that Oluwole would be an Ifa priest, he convinced his grandfather that learning to read and write, would make him a better Ifa priest and put him in a position to keep records.

He completed the PhD degree at Berkeley in Atomic/Nuclear Physics in 1969 with an AFGRAD Fellowship. In his further pursuit of excellence, the young Dr. Francis Oluwole spent the next few months as Research Fellow at some Nuclear Research Institutions, notably: The Goddard Space Institute of Columbia University, 1964, and the Lawrence Radiation Laboratory, Jan – Dec 1969. This was prior to taking up appointment as a Lecturer at the University of Ife in 1969 and attained

P

On School, Learning and Discipline‌.

So, when Oluwole arrived in class IC in 1945, he was like one on a mission. He was determined to erase the gap in his enrollment, and he did all he could to erase the one-year delay. Twice in a single year, he was given double promotion.

A joyous sigh of relief and fresh start‌..

Oluwole’s joy knew no bounds on January 26, 1952 when he climbed his dad’s bicycle and they set out for a new beginning at Aquinas College Akure (ACA).

Around 4pm when he finally brought in his belongings to ACA, he met a very friendly student. He asked him; “Awe, o ti ra bucket re?�(meaning; “my friend, have you bought your bucket?�) Two hours later, the same student rang the bell for an assembly. The principal called him to make some announcements. Oluwole was frozen. This was the school prefect!

He ran to his town mate (Mr. Adewumi) to help apologise to the prefect. The prefect just smiled and mimicked him by repeating his question. An hour later, his bed was located between Mr. Otiko’s and the prefect’s. The Prefect continued to joke with Oluwole about buying his bucket. The Prefect was to become late Prof Mathew Ojo, an Emeritus Prof of Vertinary Medicine at UI. The following day, Sunday 27th, after the mass, fresh students were given text books, which included a small catechism booklet with 374 questions. Oluwole succeeded in memorising them in less than three days and this endeared him to the principal who rapidly moved him from front row to the back row.

At some point, Oluwole acquired a new baptismal name, Francis. He was prudent and in 1953 had cumulative savings from previous school terms. His savings was sufficient enough to have him provide interest free loan to other students and this earned him the name; “Cosmopolitan

Soyombo

Bank�. He did not spend on things other than books.

When the tides turned‌ Experiencing his fair share of life’s rough patch, he explained how things took a worse turn, ‘‘However, by 1954, my dad’s business was virtually ruined and as a result, I stayed back home in 1955, till the end of May when I received 25 pounds bursary per year. Interestingly, this was the semester I performed best academically. I remain grateful to friends like Prof Ogunsua, who helped me copy notes. My routine as an out-of-school boy was to visit Akure on Saturdays to collect notes on the topic covered in each subject.’’ “Meanwhile, the WASCE results in 1958 were excellent. Out of 24 candidates, nine were in grade 1, one failed because he failed English, three in grade 3 and others in grade 2. Before some of his classmates passed away, there were five Professors, one Doctor of International Relations who worked in the UN for many years, Others included; Engineers, Agriculturists, Pharmacist, Accountants, and MD of Banks. It was a privilege to be in the set of such a brilliant group. Again, even as the youngest in the class, Oluwole’s record of an all distinctions stood unbroken for over 20 years in the school.‘‘In retrospect, my six years at Aquinas College, was part of the most interesting part of my life.’ Our Stints at the Nigerian College of Arts,

Science and Technology (NCST) ‌ After WAEC Examination, Oluwole completed the advanced level GCE with three distinctions in Pure Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. For his outstanding performance, he bagged the Nigerian College Rector Award (the first in the college), the Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) Price in Physics and Chemistry, the Brandler Prize for the Overall Best Student in all the branches of the NCST in the 1958/1960 set.

Prof Oluwole was among the first set of brilliant Nigerian students who benefitted from the American Scholarship Programme. Subsequently, he gained admission to the University of California, Berkeley and graduated in Nuclear Engineering amongst the top 10% of all U.S.A Engineering graduates. As a result, he bagged the Tau Beta Pi Honours Award of the American National Engineering Society in 1964. He completed the PhD degree at Berkeley in Atomic/Nuclear Physics in 1969 with an AFGRAD Fellowship.

In his further pursuit of excellence, the young Dr. Francis Oluwole spent the next few months as Research Fellow at some Nuclear Research Institutions, notably: The Goddard Space Institute of Columbia University, 1964, and the Lawrence Radiation Laboratory, Jan – Dec 1969. This was prior to taking up appointment as a Lecturer at the University of Ife in 1969 and attained the position of full Professor of Physics in 1978.

A Legendary Career at the University of Ife Prof Oluwole’s academic career at Ife was legendary. He was one of the innovative academicians at the forefront of curriculum reform who initiated new programme that characterised the university in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s. As Head of the Department of Physics (1975 – 76), he initiated the B.Sc Honours degree in Engineering Physics, thus commencing the programme, which eventually led to the recognition of Ife as a “Centre of Excellence� in Nuclear Physics and Engineering.

He later became the Coordinator of the Nuclear Technology Programme from 1976 – 1980 and the Director of the Centre for Energy Research and Development 1980 – 1983. His researches attracted several multimillion-dollar research grants from the Federal government of Nigeria and multinational donors.

Oluwole is well recognised and respected locally and internationally. He is either a Member or Fellow of several distinguished International Scientific Societies, Institutes On Family Front‌.

Speaking on marriage and the home front,he said: ‘‘I got married to Olufunmilayo Adejoke Oluwole. We met at Obafemi Awolowo University while she was a second year Microbiology student.

She gave birth to our first daughter shortly before the graduation. We are blessed with three other children - Olakanmi, Oladeji and Busola. She followed the children to USA to complete their education. I am grateful to her that she accepted to go. She was only given less than a month notice and she retired from Obafemi Awolowo University voluntarily. It was a painful decision necessitated by the incessant strikes in the universities in the 1990s. To enable her get employed, she switched to Nursing. I also had to take voluntary retirement and took up some consultancy work in Energy and Environment. I was able to earn some money to augment what she made in the USA.’’ Speaking on his proudest moment, he said: ‘Being honoured with the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) for Science in 2004 alongside my younger brother on the same day, is what I count the most important success in life.’’

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T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž Í°Í˛Ëœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

EVENTS

I

t was a day of joy for the families of Chief ET Isaiah and Elder Joseph Yemi Alemonu when their children Adeyemi Victoria and Babatunde Solomon were recently joined in holy matrimony. The wedding took place at St. Andrews Anglican Church Cathedral Kabba, Kogi State was followed by a grand reception at Olonijola Events Centre Kabba. Here are the personalities at the ceremony.

Photos: Julius Atoi

Groom’s parents: Elder Joseph Yemi Alemonu and wife, Fumilayo Newly weds Mr. Babatunde Solomon Alemonu and wife, Adeyomi

Bride’s parents:, Chief E T Isaiah and wife, Dupe

Bola Alemeru (L) and Ibukun Obayelu

Navy Commodore (Rtd) Ayo Bello-OdoďŹ n and wife, Nkechi

Mr and Mrs. Sam Victor Olorunsogo

Mr Abraham Bolorunduro and wife , Blessing

Mrs. Jumoke Ikuenayo

Obaro Odo-Ape, HRH Oba J. Meseko

The bride (middle) with from left Happiness Morah, Seun Ajileye, Titilayo Olatayo, Enny Alemonu, Wuraola Eniola-Olaitan, Tolulope Gbado, Alaba Akerele and Bolanle Ajala

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T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ ͰͲ˜ ͰͮͯͶ

EVENTS

Gbayode Somuyiwa (L) and Mrs Funmi Bolasire.

Chuks Anyawu and Femi Bello

Jubal Dati and Sony Dajo

L-R: Eniola Bello and Rakiya Zubairu

Dr. Babatunde Isaiah

Dr Mike Obamero (L) and Joseph Abegunde

Chief Joe Hin and B Termish Dr and Mrs. Kenny Abu

Dr Ade Medubi (L) and Raphael Ikuenayo

L-R Aduke Daniel and Ann Olayonu

Wuraola Eniola-Olaitan and Mrs. Yemi Omofe

Mrs. Gabriel Isaiah

Mr Rufus Isaiah

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž Í°Í˛Ëœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

VINTAGE

Aisha Abdulaziz

Legend Providing Opportunities for People to Excel Ę°Ă?Ăœ Ă?ĂžĂ&#x;ĂŽĂŁĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÓÙÖÙÑÓĂ?Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă“Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ăž Ă‹ĂœĂĄĂ“Ă?Ă• Ă˜Ă“Ă Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă“ĂžĂŁËœ Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ĂŽĂ™Ă—Ëœ Ă“Ă?Ă’Ă‹ ĂŒĂŽĂ&#x;Ă–Ă‹Ă¤Ă“Ă¤Ëœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă– Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?ĂœËœ ĂžĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ?Ă‘ĂŁ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂšĂ?ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă‘Ă?Ă˜ĂŽ Ă&#x;ÖÞÓ×Ă?ĂŽĂ“Ă‹ Ă?ĂŽĂ“Ă‹ ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă‹Ă—Ă? Ă‹ ĂŒĂ“Ă‘ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă™Ă? Ă˜Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ĂžĂ?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘ĂŁË› Ă’Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ăž ÚËĂ?Ă?ĂŽ Ă–Ă‹ĂŽĂŁ åÓÞÒ Ă•Ă?Ă?Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ?Ă?Ăž Ă“Ă˜ ÒÙå ĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜Ă‘Ă? ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ•Ëœ Ă“Ă? Ă“Ă—Ă—Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă™ĂšĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ&#x;Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂ“Ă?Ă? ÞÒĂ?ĂœĂ?Ă“Ă˜Ëœ Ă‹Ę°Ă?Ăœ Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒĂ? Ă•Ă?ĂŁ ÞÒËÞ Ă‘Ă‹Ă Ă? Ă’Ă?Ăœ ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă•ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ ÞÙ ĂŒĂ? Ă—Ă™ĂœĂ? Ă?ĘŠĂ?Ă“Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?ÞÓà Ă?Ë› Ă?ĂœĂŁ ĂœĂ™Ă™ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă•Ă?Ă?Ă˜ ÞÙ Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ åÙ×Ă?Ă˜ Ă?âĂ?Ă?Ă– Ă“Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă˜Ă Ă“ĂœĂ™Ă˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă“Ă? Ă—Ă‹ĂŽĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă Ă? Ă?Ă™Ăœ ĂžĂ?Ă‹ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂŽĂ™ĂĄĂ˜ ĂŒĂ‹ĂœĂœĂ“Ă?ĂœĂ?Ëœ Ă?Ă’Ă? ĂžĂ?Ă–Ă–Ă? Stanley Nkwazema ÞÒËÞ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ˜Ă?Ăž Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂŒĂœĂ™Ă‹ĂŽĂŒĂ‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă˜ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ă‹ĘĽĂ™ĂœĂŽĂ‹ĂŒĂ–Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ‹ĂœĂ?ĂŽ ÞÙ ÙÞÒĂ?Ăœ Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ“Ă?Ă?

From Biological Science to IT studied Biological Science at Warwick University in the United Kingdom. I also studied programing for a year before heading out to university, which became useful in my second and third year of School and clearly later in life. I have always been fast-paced and had a keen interest in how things work. Information technology gives everyone the opportunity to be more efficient and productive, so it settled well with who I am.

I

Women tearing down walls in IT industry As I already mentioned earlier, I work with a number of women that are already creating solutions to the market need and if I see more women in the industry, the reality is that this is already happening. When a person has value and is given the right environment, nothing can stop the value from showing.

This applies to both men and women.

I have a number of female colleagues in my team ranging from hands on Engineers to HR and Operations Managers. And their performance rates are at par and in a number of cases higher than their male counterparts.

So I think it is clearly time to put stereotypes behind us and focus on more substantial issues.

Nigerians embracing Legend in numbers We have several services that appeal to different segments of people and we are constantly trying to create more value to the customers. Once Nigerians realize that we are not just all talk but actually deliver on the promises we make and more, who wouldn’t want to join? The truth is that Nigerians appreciate excellent services and will stick to a particular service provider who satisfies them and gives them value for their money Lowering costs on internet and other broadband services in Nigeria Actually, the prices are fairly affordable compared to other countries. For example an unlimited residential Fibre service in Nigeria ranges between N15, 000 to N30,000. In the UK or the US they range between 30 to 50 pounds per month. The average price for 1 Gigabyte of Mobile Data in the US is 50 USD. In Nigeria the average price per GB of Mobile Data is $5. So in actuality, we are spoiled for price in Nigeria. I think the challenge has to do with our ability to optimize these resources and create the commensurate value to the benefit of our economy and people.

Legend is a Multimedia Media service provider which in layman, means a retail provider of Internet, Voice and Video service directly to homes over a Fibre optic cable connection.

Nigeria still struggling with quality and availability of reliable Internet service You are right when you say there are quality and reliability issues with broadband services in Nigeria, but we at Legend have taken decisive steps to address these gaps.

The issues are mostly caused by infrastructure gaps and distortions in the industry structure. On the infrastructure gaps, the country has a huge shortage of terrestrial ICT cable infrastructure which is the main foundation for reliable broadband.

Though we have made progress in the Submarine and National Long Distance Cable infrastructure, we are lacking in FTTX infrastructure also referred to as the last mile.

This coupled with an industry structure that is skewed heavily in the favor of Mobile operators, makes it difficult to achieve the type of focus that will bolster the growth of cable broadband which as I said above is the foundation for true broadband services. In Legend, we took the bull by the horn and deployed the right infrastructure to the right places at the right prices. We presently have deployed a purpose built Fibre to the Home (FTTH )network in the entire Abuja Metropolis and Suburbs to provide True Broadband to the residents. Presently, thousands of homes are connected to the Legend Network and the testimonials from the customers show that we can get it right in Nigeria if we put square pegs in square holes.

We all sell data, content and voice, and no because we sell them via different technologies which have very different outcomes from a quality, pricing and general customer experience perspective. The difference in the speed and capacity of a fibre optic cable compared to a radio microwave or mobile signal is very substantial. This means that features like unlimited internet access can be sold conveniently over fibre but this will be a struggle for a mobile network as they have to limit the users to preserve bandwidth across the limited radio frequency resources on the network.

Also bandwidth intensive applications like HD video in large volumes will be a struggle for mobile networks because of limitations of the technology, while this is not experienced with the Fibre advantage. And also the influences from weather conditions are totally aliened to the fibre cable while satellite and radios are influenced by this. So like I mentioned, they might look similar on face value but the devil they say is in the detail.

We provide TV services The huge bandwidth of the fibre cables makes it possible to carry video signals seamlessly without limits to the channels and the technologies like HD, 4K etc. Also we invested in new age TV technology which is a result of the convergence of Voice, Video and Data and the combination of this technology with our Fibre Advantage has made it possible for us to deliver TV Everywhere, TV, Device ,Mobile, Web. We have a well spelt out digital strategy which has become mainstream in the world today and our Over the Top Technology (OTT) capability enables us launch multiple virtual products to customers delivered over the internet.

Legend in ďŹ ve years Legend will be the Cloud Platform that connects Africa to the world. With Cloud infrastructure, regional and global are now local. So the short answer is yes, but this time, we will not have to physically leave our domain to do business, we will do over the Cloud, like Amazon.

Interestingly, as the leading Fibre to the Home (FTTH) service Provider, Legend has formally doubled its speed on its TriplePlay and Dual Play Bundles from 8Mbps and 4Mbps to 16Mbps and 8Mbps respectively to

Abdulaziz

serve clients better.

The increase will be at no additional cost to the customers already on the service and to those joining the network. In our quest to deliver a fully immersive Multi Media experience at the quality of the most developed countries in the world to our customers in Nigeria, the company will continue to increase the speeds on its network and introduce innovative and exciting products that ensure its customers are satisfied and fulfilled with their TV, Internet and Digital services.

Legend has also made history in the African Internet market by launching its Residential GE Gigabit Internet service. Gigabit Internet services are very rare even in the United States and were championed actively by companies like Google who set up Google Fibre to drive GE services to the home.We have built a network at par with the most advanced in the world, and are very eager to provide our

customers with the services they deserve.

Our GE services start at 0.1Gbps through to 1Gbps, over a single connection, suitable for UHD/4K Video streaming and other bandwidth intensive applications. They are also well priced and start at N150, 000, 00 per month.

Our diverse product offerings ensure that the Legend experience is available to the broad spectrum of the market either through our Hotspot chain or our OTT products which can be accessed through the Google Playstore or App Store. We are very excited at the prospects and opportunities ahead�.

Legend by Suburban is an exclusive service brand which offers distinctive value that enhances the lifestyle of its users. The service was launched in 2014 with a focus on providing access to unlimited premium video entertainment and connectivity to the public.

25

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž Í°Í˛Ëœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

JOE/FAJ

Who Fuels Fake News?

O

ften times, most people are thoroughly embarrassed, disgraced and even loss their means of livelihood as a result of the havoc wrecked by fake news. In the last couple of years, there has been a gradual but steady explosion of fake news items that have taken the social media by storm, dominating discussions and forcing their unsavoury views on the unsuspecting and sometimes gullible public.

It is not as if it is so easy to identify fake news when you see one; for it bears the same characteristics and semblance of real news except that its intention is surely not to serve the public good.

Fake news, as the name implies, disseminates lies, misinformation, sensationalises stories to spread outright falsehood, with the sole intention to deceive the public or destroy someone’s reputation.

Nigeria’s baptism of fake news’ fire came sometime in 2011, Channels Television sent out a newsflash informing its viewers that then president Umaru Yar’Adua (now late) may resign after a cabinet reshuffle. The news item immediately went viral and the effects of its content sent shock waves which reverberated locally and globally.

As it turned out, the source of the newsflash which the television station thought was the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) was a complete hoax. Not only that no such thing happened, the news item never emanated from NAN and Channels TV was left with a red face and had to grapple afterwards with the federal government sanctions.

Now what exactly is fake news? To some, fake news is an inaccurate, sometimes sensationalistic report that is created to gain attention, mislead, deceive or damage a reputation. However, the Cambridge dictionary defines fake news simply as false storiesthat appear to be news, spread on the internet or using other media, usually createdto influence political views or as a joke.

Admittedly, not all Fake news is Fake even though because of its notoriety, it has become the very reason to discredit all manner of stories on the basis that they are fake. While that may be true, social media consumers have to develop a more robust approach and discernible mind not to throw the baby with the bath water and must adopt some creative ways to fight this menace.

To underline the global threat of Fake news which social media consumers have to become smarter and proactive, we only need to follow the discourse in the aftermath of President Donald Trump of the United States election victory where it is alleged that fake news ‘assisted in swinging votes’ in his favour.

Another poignant reminder is a shooting incident which is now referred to as ‘Pizzagate’. The story goes that on 4 December,

a North Carolina man opened fire at the Washington pizzeria Comet Ping Pong, which an online conspiracy theory purports to be the headquarters of a child sex ring run by Hillary Clinton.

Subscribers to “Pizzagate� point to apparent “code� within the hacked emails of John Podesta, the Clinton campaign chair, and the fact the restaurant has the same initials as “child pornography�.

As the story unfolded, it was discovered according to the Guardian online that “from 4chan and Reddit, the online message board where the story took root, the story gained sufficient momentum for a poll of 1,224 registered voters in late September to find that 14% of Trump supporters believed it to be true. A significant 32% of respondents were “not sure� – just like the 25-year-old gunman who, though not convinced of the theory, felt there were sufficient grounds to pay a visit to the restaurant to “self-investigate�.

Now hold on to this: The poll lends weight to the suggestion that the US election result was influenced by a widespread belief in fake news among Trump supporters. That same poll found that 73% of Trump voters thought the billionaire financier George Soros paid protesters to disrupt the Republican candidate’s rallies – a fake news report later repeated by the president-elect himself.

It has equally been discovered that because of the juicy nature of these fake news stories and people’s desire to know what is going on, these fake news stories become compelling to click on, and with a “truthiness� quality to them – they grow on the social media, where links are given the same weighting regardless of source.

Which brings us to what is happening in Nigeria today: The story currently trending is not about the policy documents released by the two presidential candidates, President Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP); rather it is a Fake news story of Buhari’s purported death and replacement with body double.

According to Nnamdi Kanu of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Buhari purportedly died when he went to the United Kingdom for treatment for an undisclosed ailment. The so called cabal in the Presidency according to Kanu, imported a certain Jibrin, a Sudanese fraudster as Buhari’s body double and has been ruling the country ever since his purported return to the country.

It is an uphill task to convince a layman that Kanu is talking rubbish largely because of the information at his disposal (regardless of whether it is fake or not) and the manner and timing he is releasing the ‘information’ especially in an election period of this nature in Nigeria possibly to make political capital.

But is Buhari Dead and Jibrin of Sudan real? No one is sure of what the truth is or falsehood for the simple reason that the presidency has been mute and apparently considers Kanu’s rants a non-ssue.

IsTraderMoni Glorification Of Poverty?

T

he hip word now is “TraderMoni�... the current focus is the politicians’ manna - the masses. And the latest initiative seems to be giving opposition parties special headaches as TraderMoni sweeps across the nation since its launch in June, 2018 somewhere in Benin, Edo State. This is how the chief trader, Nigeria’s Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo gleefully announced it then: “...The whole idea is that we want to ensure that we give whatever support, whether it is cash, advice or even registration, to all of our small and medium enterprises. In the next few weeks, we are starting a micro-credit scheme which we call TraderMoni. It is a different scheme from MarketMoni. The TraderMoni is for the smaller traders, those who are doing small, little things, where in many cases, their inventory isn’t more than N5000 – N10,000. We want to give those types of people some credit as well, and once they pay back, we will give them some more money as well....�

At some major markets and densely populated estates across the country, giddy traders and others have embraced the “awoof� sweepstakes with expected hi-fives to the Federal Government for “remembering� the poor amongst us. Many critics have however accused the initiators of TraderMoni of “weaponising� the so-called social intervention blitzkrieg conveniently timed to “explode� less than a year to crucial national elections. Some others raise high brows at the seeming lackadaisical gatekeeping procedures involved in doling out the “largesse�.

However, either by deliberate obfuscation or famed official aloofness, there appears a sense of incredulity on the side of those on the sidelines, even as the majority of the intended targets are unaware, or not well informed.

I was particularly disturbed by this lacuna: Can the TraderMoni concept not be institutionalized as massive nationwide cobwebs of cooperatives and clusters of commercial hubs where millions of interested traders can buy comparatively cheap goods (produced with a system swelled by major and mid-level producers, manufacturers, farmers, breeders, etc - activating a massive chain of productivity, employment, financing, and sundry value chains; reaching out and touching transportation, agriculture, technology, communications, logistics, etc)? And most significantly, ensuring and enabling food security that quenches our consumption needs.

Perhaps, I was needlessly apprehensive, so I decided to seek the views of technocrats in public finance, strategy, policy

enunciation and implementation... people who know how to crunch the numbers, and not be swayed by undulating political rigmarole. Before then, let us understand the government’s intervention beyond sophistry: what is TraderMoni really all about? With the advertised target of two million people and at N10,000 each, in the first instance, for traumatized Nigerian traders, that is a cool N20b, at the very least! That is aside the huge investments on larger scaled concepts like FarmerMoni and MarketMoni.

An online source (basedonnews.com) explains to befuddled readers: “The Executive Director, BoI, Toyin Adeniji, at the unveiling of ‘Trader Moni’ at Ojuwoye Market in Mushin, Lagos, said the bank will not relent until every Nigerian who is willing, has access to loan irrespective of their (sic) status or level of education... The goal of the scheme was to take financial inclusion down to the grassroots where pure water, bread, food sellers and Okada rider(s), among others, can access loan to expand their businesses without any form of security....�

Now, how does that work out? “The ‘Trader Moni’ initiative is a mobile phone driven technology. After your details have been captured by the agent and sent to BoI system for validation, within 48 hours you will get cash notification in your mobile wallet account. You can either transfer the cash to your bank account or cash it out at any mobile money agent... Stages involved in cashing out Trader Moni... For a starter (sic), you can access N10,000 and pay back N10,250 to qualify for N15,000. Once you payback N15,375 you will qualify for N20,000 loan and when you pay back N21,000, you will get N50,000. All loan categories have payback duration of six months.�

Now, with a clearer understanding of how the traders are being encouraged, it is time to hear from the experts on the finer dimensions of this prodigious romance between the State and her poor hardworking folks. My first call was to maverick financial analyst, a big player in financial information infrastructure, and founding CEO of Proshare Nigeria Ltd, Olufemi Awoyemi, FCA. His response, usually lucid and unapologetic, took the discussions few decibels higher: “Over the years, the assessment of the value, the impact and the usefulness of these schemes, has been the critical issue. It’s not that it’s not working, but it’s like a drop in the ocean... Why? Because the gaps in the challenges confronting us in Nigeria are too wide and massive, such that no matter what they are doing, it will seem inadequate. “The perception that’s most crucial in any social interven-

THEFRONTLINES WITH

JOSEPH USHIGIALE e-mail: jushigiale@yahoo.co.uk, joseph.ushigiale@thisdaylive.com mobile phone: 08023422660 (sms only)

From history, conspiracy theories alluding to body doubles abound and are not new. The most celebrated of such conspiracy theories was that of Russia’s late Boris Yeltsin. According to livejournal, “Boris Yeltsin allegedly survived a heart attack in the fall of 1996.

May be he did not survive but he came back to work only in 1997 looking different. He seemingly became younger and lost weight. They said he had all fingers on his left hand, unlike the previous Yeltsin. But such pictures could not be found. But there was a picture where the fourth and middle fingers on the left hand of “new� Yeltsin were of one length. Middle finger of “original�

Yeltsin was shorter.�

It went on to narrate that the “new Yeltsin appeared in Kremlin in 1997. Same year, arising from obscurity, Mr. Putin had a meteoric career rise. On March 26, 1997, Yeltsin appointed Putin deputy chief of Presidential Staff. In one year, Putin became Kremlin’s most influential person. In summer 1998, he became a chief of Federal Security Service (FSB), and in May 1999 Yeltsin decided to transfer his powers to Vladimir Putin.Possibly, Yeltsin body double’s role was to prepare a successor, because real Yeltsin had died. “Puppeteers understood it would be much harder to put into power their protege by mean of democratic elections. Meanwhile, title of successor increases a prestige of any person many times.

Moreover, they found a man (Putin) who could meet the requirements of Russian people at that moment. All country fall in love with young, well built, smart and smiling Vladimir Putin, especially after inappropriate antics of aged Yeltsin. This greatest scam turned out to be successful.�

Therefore, the onus is on the presidency to speak up and address these issues that would never go away for now. Fake news can effectively be checkmated essentially by the timely release of information. For instance, it has been documented that the late President Umaru Yar’Adua was quite open with his medical records.

He informed Nigerians of what ailed him and where he was going for treatment. His openness elicited public empathy and prayers from majority of Nigerians including his political opponents. In Buhari’s case, his medical records are shrouded in utmost secrecy.

Why won’t people speculate or spread fake news? Such huge vacuum created by his handlers would certainly create suspicion and set off a trend of rumours now pervading the polity.

COUNTERPOINT BY

FEMI

AKINTUNDE-JOHNSON e-mail: fajalive1@gmail.com mobile phone: (08182223348 - SMS Only)

tion programme is that it must be sustainable and effective, over a long term. So, where was the first assessment ever published on the impact of social interventions by the Nigerian government? I haven’t accessed one, but I do believe other agencies outside Nigeria have done it. “Like I told you earlier, this thing (social intervention) has a history with us, so let us not pretend! What’s happening is that the modern welfare state...is just a recent innovation. You can capture your people for the purposes of taxation...and for the people who are not working, the best thing for the economy is to make sure they’re gainfully employed. That means they reduce the pressure on you, the government, to provide everything for them...you reduce crime, everything.

But, just give them something. “So, if you take it that way, you give somebody TraderMoni of N10,000, it is important to do the profile of that person.

Otherwise, you run the risk of glorifying poverty. Because the money you’re giving is even below the national minimum wage (in a month)... so it’s a one-off gift...that means that they’re even far below the minimum level of human existence, in your country. “Let me be clear: the TraderMoni you’re giving is below the monthly minimum wage (N18,000), and you’re giving them N10,000 per annum, if not one-off... That means you’re sustaining a culture of poverty - rather than addressing the problem which you’re raising. “In America’s welfarist capitalism...they give the people credit to buy things, pay for rents, etc...but you must work to pay back. That means welfare was tied to productivity.

There’s no linkage to productivity in this particular scheme. “At the end of the day, the whole objective of everybody is productivity... because if the country is not productive, the number of the poor will be increasing.

If you look at it closely, there’s no linkage between the people you’re giving money to, and their ability to pay tax.

So, they are not able to refund the cost of the scheme. You’re not a bank, you’re a sovereign entity...the people you give money to, it’s for them to earn, and begin to contribute to the tax basket.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t NOVEMBER 24, 2018

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MARKET PLACE with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

L-R: Chief Marketing Officer, Dufil Group,Mr. Girish Sharma; Director (Pharmacy), Lagos State Drug Quality Control Laboratory, representing the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Mrs. Wale Poluyi; General Manager,Hypo,Mr Praveen Katarki; Representative of President,Nigeria Medical Association, Mrs Emma Okon; and Brand Manager of Hypo, Onome Asagbra, during the launch of Hypo Toilet Cleaner to mark 2018 World Toilet Day in Lagos recently

Founder, Tints Makeup Professionals,Olamide Ojo and Managing Director B to B Events and organisers of Beauty West Africa,Mr Jamie Hill at the just concluded Beauty West Africa Exhibition held at Landmark Event Centre in Lagos

Beauty W’Africa Exhibition Holds First Indigenous Book on Internal Audit Set for Launch amidst Huge Economic Gains Nigeria has hosted over 100 beauty firms from across the globe, as the much anticipated Beauty West Africa Exhibition held in Lagos during the week.

The three -day exhibition was organised

by B to B Events Limited, a United Kingdom based firm, in partnership with Compass Consulting, to showcase latest products and innovations in beauty, wellness and aesthetics, from across the world to the West African market.

The fair, recognised as West Africa’s biggest professional beauty event, also offered a platform for beauty professionals across West Africa to connect, network, source suppliers and embellish their knowledge on current beauty innovations from local and international experts.

Speaking at the fair, Managing Director, B to B Events Limited, Jamie Hill, noted that the choice of Nigeria to host the fair this year was as a result of her competitiveness, mostly

in her huge population.

He said: “We are indeed excited to host this exhibition in Nigeria. Nigeria boasts a wealth of resources with global appeal and has become a destination of choice for global investors who intended to leverage the opportunities presented in its beauty market.”

While speaking on the theme of the event, ‘The Beauty Economy and the Future of the Nigerian Beauty Industry’, Hill added: “The market which is currently valued at $3billion dollar, according to Euromonitor International, is expected to rise in worth considering Nigeria strong population growth, with more young people becoming more civilised due to media exposure.

“More to it is the increasing number of working women with disposable income as well as sophisticated youths finding new ways to care for and present themselves. We hope that Beauty West Africa will be the first step

towards global commerce for a number of our SME exhibitors.”

In his presentation, President of the Nigerian British Chamber of Commerce, (NBCC), Akinola Olawore, who declared the fair open explained that changes in the beauty and cosmetic industry had continued to drive growth and play key role in the bottom line of countries.

He added: “The industry is buyer driven and made up of five key sectors namely: raw material, components and sub assembly, distribution, designation, market and sales.

This is a huge opportunity that entrepreneurs can key into to create jobs and improve the economy.”

Visitors at the fair were treated to an exciting range of talks, panel discussions , live demonstrations from celebrity stylists as well as opportunity to explore knowledge of beauty product sales and exports, investment and growth, and customer skills and services.

Hypo Expands Operations with New ‘Toilet Cleaner’ Hygiene and sanitation brand, Hypo, has expanded its footprint in the household cleaning products market with the launch of new ‘Toilet Cleaner’.

The firm, which became prominent with its super bleach brand, explained that its latest move into a new space was prompted by its interest for a healthy environment, as well as need to meet market demands for affordable and efficient toilet cleaner.

The new product comes in an affordable 65ml sachet pack and a 450ml bottle, in order to ensure that every home, regardless of social class, boasts a sound health through proper sanitation.

The product was launched on the sidelines of the World Toilet Day and launching it on such

day, according to the company, was a deliberate effort to strengthen the effect of its message on sanitation.

Speaking during the official unveiling of the products, which was well attended by representatives from Lagos State Ministry of Health, Ministry of Environment, Nigerian Medical Association as well as the product’s Brand Ambassadors from Nollywood, Director (Pharmacy), Lagos State Drug Quality Control Laboratory, representing the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Mrs. Wale Poluyi, commended the organisation for bringing cleanliness to the people at an affordable rate,yet flexible .

He noted that a lot of people did not have access to toilet while a great number of people who had

access to it, do not leave it clean.

He said: “Lack of sanitation leads to human waste that eventually returns to the environment,this is why we must strive to dispose waste properly and keep our toilet clean and safe from germs to avoid spread of diseases. We appreciate Hypo on this, particular for considering the low end market as well as offering comprehensive guidance on how to use the product. With this, we all don’t have excuse not to stay healthy.”

Quoting WaterAid’s State of the World’s Toilet report, Brand Manager of Hypo, Onome Asagbra, stated that Nigeria had been ranked among top three countries in the world for the number of people without toilets, while fewer than three in 10 people have a decent toilet.

Given the low value placed on Internal Auditing profession in Nigeria, despite its importance to investment and economic growth, a new book, titled, ‘A to Z of Internal Audit Practice,’ is set to launch.

Speaking on the book, the convener and founder of the Sam Ohuabunwa Foundation for Economic Empowerment, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, explained that the idea of the book was conceived considering that no Nigerian author has ever presented a book on the subject matter.

He added that the book, which is up for public launch on November 27, was also to reverse negative trends in the teaching and practice of the profession, as well as that it represents the first goal agenda of vision 2030.

He said, “Internal Auditing as a profession has been neglected in West Africa, including Nigeria, both at the tertiary institutions and professional levels, including those in practice, despite over 50 years of professionalism in accountancy in Nigeria and the level of corruption and inefficiencies in our system.

“The desire to compile a comprehensive textbook gave rise to the title:’ A to Z of Internal Audit Practice’. This piece of work was a five years research effort between 2011 to 2016, with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN, reviewing first and second unpublished editions with great commendations.

“The global edition was edited by Dan Swanson, a seasoned Internal Audit editor and published on 22nd November, 2016 by CRC Press of Francis and Taylor Group LLC”.

Some dignitaries expected to grace the launch included: Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Okechukwu Enelamah; Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu; Chairman of the launch, Chief Richard Uchechukwu Uche; and book reviewer, Prof Enyi Patrick Enyi, amongst other notable Nigerians.

Promasidor Unveils 2018 Cowbellpedia Harpic Restates Commitment Mathematics Champions to Economic Growth Amid wild jubilation, Promasidor Nigeria Limited (PNL), has unveiled winners of the 2018 combellpedia mathematics competition, after a thorough final session.

Akinfoluhan Akinleye, a student of The Ambassadors College, Ota, Ogun State, emerged overall winner in the junior category while Chinedu Mgbemena, a student of Graceland International School, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, emerged the champion in the senior category.

Also in the junior category, Splendour Nwankwo of Jesuit Memorial College and Favour Okarike of Graceland International School, both in Port Harcourt, Rivers State emerged first and second runner-up respectively.

In the senior category, Praise Isinkaye, a student of Federal Government Academy, Suleja, Niger State and Juliet Ekoko, from The Ambassador College, Ota Ogun State, came out as the first and second runner-up

respectively.

In fulfilment of Promasidor’s promise, the overall winners in the junior and senior categories were rewarded with N2 million each plus an all-expense paid educational excursion outside the country while the first and second runners-up got N1.5 million and N1 million respectively.

The teachers of the champions were also rewarded with N500,000, while those of the first and second runners-up received N400,000 and N300,000 respectively.

Speaking at the Grand finale of the competition, Marketing Manager of PNL, Mr. Abiodun Ayodeji, stated that the bond between the Cowbell brand and Mathematics competition had deepened over the years , such that participating students, parents and other stakeholders connected to the initiative had become the company’s brand ambassadors.

Toilet Brand, Harpic, has restated its commitment to economic development in Nigeria as it urged Nigerians to embrace hygienic defecation practice.

The company stated that the unhygienic habit of open defecation was very common in this clime and had continued to threaten public health safety and economy growth Open defecation refers to the practice whereby people go out into fields, bushes, forests, open bodies of water, or other open spaces, rather than using the toilet, to defecate. According to the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), about 46 million people in Nigeria defecate in the open, with 56 million people estimated to be added to this open defecation crisis during the next 10 years.

Speaking at an occasion organised by the company in partnership with Lagos State Ministry of Environment, to mark the 2018 World Toilet Day, General Manager of Reckitt Benckiser (RB) West Africa, Dayanand Sriram emphasised the company’s interest in the nation’s overall development,hence its continuous investment

in sanitation infrastructure and services. He said: “At RB, we are aware of the need to change the defecation narratives in Nigeria. That is why we have partnered with the Lagos Ministry of Environment, to revamp public toilets in Lagos. Last year August, we revamped 25 public toilet units in Ojota, Oshodi, Costain and Alausa communities in Lagos to reduce the alarming statistics of open defecation, this is one of the ways we intend to lift the economy of Lagos and Nigeria at large. Reflecting on the theme of the day, ‘When Nature Calls’ , Leferink said: “We believe that when nature calls, people should remember to use clean toilets, because passing faeces in open places can cause health challenges for us and for others.”

Earlier in his welcome address, Lagos State Commissioner for Environment, Babatunde Durosinmi–Etti commended the firm on her effort to challenge the scourge , with a promise that the state government would work out modalities to solidify its relationship with RB get to the root of open defecation in the state.

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GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

24.11.2018

London Derby

Michael Obafemi Finally Turns His Back on Super Eagles

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Michael Obafemi

Finally Turns His Back on Super Eagles If there is one thing the Nigeria Football Federation had achieved more than any, it’s having successfully wooed players yers of Nigerian descent to star for the Super Eagles agles in spite of having played for their countries es of birth at the junior cadre and the list is endless. ess. Some are Victor Moses, Leon Balogun, Henry enry Onyekuru and Sheyi Ojo among others. However, owever, Michael Obafemi who plays for English Premier League side, Southampton, acted differently rently as he, on Monday night turned down his invitation to ead, opted to play for his fatherland and instead, reland reports don the colours of Republic of Ireland Kunle Adewale

N

igeria’s hope of having Michael Obafemi play for the Super Eagles was over the weekend dashed as the Dublin-born player made his debut for the Republic of Ireland in the UEFA Nation League encounter against Denmark. A thrilled Obafemi had set his sights on a long international career after becoming the first player born this century to be capped by the Republic of Ireland.

The 18-year-old Southampton striker was used as a late substitute in Ireland’s 0-0 Nations League draw in Denmark days after committing himself to the country of his birth rather than to Nigeria, for whom he also qualifies.

Speaking after the game at Ceres Park in Aarhus, he said: “It’s an amazing feeling to get my first cap for my country.

I’m very proud tonight, absolutely buzzing. I’ll be getting this shirt framed to put it in my house. Obviously, my career is still young, but this is definitely a major moment in it. Hopefully, I can be playing for years to come. I’m still young. I want to get as many caps as possible, score goals if I can and just keep enjoying it.”

Obafemi unwittingly found himself dragged into the Declan Rice saga last week as the West Ham defender pondered over whether to opt for the Republic, Nigeria or England, although he insisted there was never any question in his mind.

He said: “There was no doubt in my head about playing for Ireland. I’ve represented Ireland in age grade competitions . I never had any doubts at all.”

The teenager will now head back to his club hoping to get more first-team football under his belt as he attempts to force his way into Martin O’Neill’s plans for the start of the Euro 2020 qualifying campaign in March next year.

O’Neill said: “He had made the commitment anyway that he wanted to play and whether it was going to be tonight or some other evening, he’s got a lot to do, a lot to do. I think he realises that himself. We’ll see what the next couple of months bring. I think Shane Long is out for a little while – I’m talking really about his club form and he’s hoping to get some time.

“Obviously he has to fight for that and he has to earn that, but that would be

at’s the case. In terms of internice if that’s national football, it’s lovely for him to hink his mum was here again get on. I think nd that’s very, very pleasing. tonight and nk he knows himself he has But I think plenty to do.” oss, Amaju Pinnick had NFF boss, d severally that youngsters of reiterated Nigerian origin who were doing well in England and other leagues would wear rian colours at the appropriate the Nigerian time. He said it had been in the plans esent NFF board to build a of the present uper Eagles young Super ad of the team ahead rld Cup, 2022 World hat the adding that n was federation ng monitoring several Nigeers rian players that weree wavees making waves riou us in the various leagues.

“What we are trying to at do is what IP we call VIP scouting – talking to these young playre playing abroad to play for ers that are erland. No Nigerian, even if their fatherland. they havee four or five passports, they ys excited being Nigerians. I are always re you that we shall get them can assure or us at an appropriate time,” to play for Pinnick had said. mi, however, had a different Obafemi, ought, as his dream was line of thought, always to o play for his country of birthRepublic of Ireland.

The 18-year-old -year-old was called up to the Ireland nd squad on November 6 for the friendly dly against Northern Ireland and the UEFA Nations League match against Denmark and Playerworks CSM, a football ootball agency that represents Obafemi,, released a statement on his behalf.

“Due to o current speculation surrounding g Obafemi and as Michael’s representatives, tatives, we would like to go on record d to say that we are not in talks with either er Nigeria or England, nor is it something ng we have ever pursued,” the statement nt read.

quote

NOVEMBER 24, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, ˾ THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

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“Since Mark O’Toole spotted Michael y on, he, along g with the other staff early at Ireland, have given g Michael a great M opportunity, pp y which he has enjoyed immensely. y Michael was born b in Ireland, so this is the country he naturally wants to play p y for.

“Martin O’Neill has shown great faith in Michael and he wants to repay p y that faith by y help helping p the team achieve success. Micha Michael is 100 per cent committed to Ireland a and is looking forward to an exciting future with the national team.”

Michael Obafemi has always set his sights g on winning g many man more caps for p the Republic of Ireland following his senior debut. The 18-yea 18-year-old could have

chosen to play for Nigeria or England but is now committed to representing the Republic of Ireland.

The teenager ended speculation over his international future last week by pledging his commitment to the Republic of Ireland after parallels had been drawn between him and West Ham defender Declan Rice, who continues to consider the possibility of switching allegiance to represent England.

“There was no doubt in my head about playing for Ireland. I’ve represented Ireland in age grade competitions. I never had any doubts at all,” added Obafemi.

The Dublin-born forward, who

moved with his Nigerian parents to London when he was young, was introduced in the 80th minute of the scoreless draw in Aarhus and he will hope to play a bigger role in the Republic’s Euro 2020 qualifying campaign, which begins next March.

Manager O’Neill has told Obafemi that he will need to play more firstteam football Southampton as he continues his development.

Obafemi became the 12th Republic player to make his debut this year as O’Neill continues to add to his squad options.

Aged 17 years and 199 days, Obafemi became the second youngest player to make a Premier League appearance for Southampton after Luke Shaw, who

The teenager ended speculation over his international future last week by pledging his commitment to the Republic of Ireland saying there was no doubt in my head about playing for Ireland. I’ve represented Ireland in age grade competitions. I never had any doubts at all G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE WAHAB AKINTUNDE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR CHIKA AMANZE-NWACHUKU THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE

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Atletico Look to Leapfrog Barca

A

tletico Madrid have a chance to take advantage of a topsy-turvy La Liga campaign when they host champions Barcelona today with the chance to take thetop spot this weekend despite their own patchy form.

Diego Simeone’s side are just a point behind leaders Barca despite having drawn five times and lost once, together as many matches as they have won. They are battling to overtake Barca alongside Sevilla and surprise package Alaves, who are both on 23 points with Atleti.

Sevilla could potentially be leaders on Sunday night despite languishing in 13th place in September.

Even Real Madrid are in touch, just four points back despite having gone more than eight hours without a goal at one point and having been without a permanent coach for two weeks before Santiago Solari was upgraded from interim to full-time boss.

This season every time a challenger has clicked into gear they seem to click out again, in turn offering fresh impetus to their stumbling rivals around them.

Barca were verging on the crisis in September before reeling off six wins and a draw away at Valencia. Then they were blown away by Real Betis, flattered even by the 4-3 scoreline. “We have managed to play the way we want against the big teams, but against other teams with less potential we have not,� defender Gerard Pique said. “If we want to win titles we have to be strong against everyone, the difficult ones and everyone else.�

Atletico may have put a miserable start behind them but last month, they suffered their heaviest defeat under Diego Simeone, a 4-0 loss to Borussia Dortmund. Before the international break, they needed two goals in the last 10 minutes to beat Athletic Bilbao.

The last time Atleti prevailed over Barca in the league was 2010 when they had Spain keeper David de Gea in goal and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero up front.

Lionel Messi proved the difference in March with a bending free-kick, and in the summer too for Antoine Griezmann, who decided he would be better off in the lead role he holds with Atletico rather than playing second fiddle at Barca.

Griezmann has not shied away from his craving to clinch the Ballon d´Or this year but despite winning the World Cup and Europa League, the sense is he will come up short, as he is not consistently dominating these kinds of fixtures in the way players like Messi do.

There will be a battle of old against new in midfield, where Sergio Busquets, 30, goes up against Rodri Hernandez, eight years his junior.

Rodri is still rough around the edges but has poise, judgement and the ability to set the tempo. Busquets has done that job at the highest level over the past decade but he has been among those most at fault in Barca’s worst performances this season.

Any result at the Wanda Metropolitano will benefit sixth-placed Real Madrid, whose first game with Santiago Solari as their permanent coach comes at Eibar early this afternoon.

Four wins, 15 goals scored and only two conceded the point to nothing less than a transformation, which gave Madrid president Florentino Perez an easy solution to fill the vacancy left open by the sacking of Julen Lopetegui.

Solari has a kind run of fixtures until Christmas, broken only by a league clash against Valencia and Roma in the Champions League next week, which gives his side the chance to re-emerge as serious challengers to Barca’s crown.

Dele Ali tries to stop Eden Hazard

London Derby: Chelsea Stake Unbeaten Run against Spurs Not many would have staked their money on Chelsea not conceding a defeat after 12 Premier League games, not because of lack of quality but rather due to the Blues’ management not responding on time to sign a manager in good time to prepare the team for the new season. Surprisingly, Maurizio Sarri has not only improved Chelsea’s quality of play, but the Blues are also yet to taste defeat in 18 matches in all competitions and this is the run today’s opponent-Tottenham Hotspurs would be hoping to halt at Wembley

T

op-four rivals Tottenham Hotspurs and Chelsea lock horns at Wembley Stadium in the pick of this weekend’s Premier League action. Spurs have been in better form over the past two months, but they trail their opponent by a point ahead of this evening’s clash.

Tottenham have won nine of their Premier League games so far but, significantly, two of their three defeats have come against top-four rivals Manchester City and Liverpool.

Now they have the chance to leapfrog Chelsea with a victory at Wembley, with Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino suggesting the lack of Champions League football is helping his London rivals. “This season they are competing in the Europa League again and it’s completely different for Manchester City, Manchester

United, Liverpool or us because we’re competing in the Champions League,� he said. “It’s a completely different competition. “I am not surprised (by their start) because Chelsea have an unbelievable squad and players. This summer they invested. They signed players, quality players and they added to the squad. But it’s normal; they have one point more than us.�

Despite the ongoing negativity due to matters out of Pocheittino’s hands - namely the delayed move into their new ground and a serious lack of ambition in the summer transfer window, Tottenham headed into the final international break of the year on a high.

Six wins from their last eight matches leave them in a strong position in the Premier League, through to the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup and still in with a chance of qualifying for the knockout stages of the Champions

League.

That five of their last six league wins have come by a one-goal margin, with the exception being a 2-0 triumph away at strugglers Huddersfield Town at the end of September, backs up Pochettino’s point that his players have shown exceptional fighting spirit in the face of adversity.

The problem for Tottenham has been their home form, having collected just 22 per cent of their Premier League points at Wembley this season - the lowest-such tally of any side in the division. Of the 27 points accrued overall so far, only six have come at their temporary home.

Victory over Fulham was followed up by defeat to Liverpool, while their slender win against another relegation battler in Cardiff City came immediately before a 1-0 loss to Manchester City in their most recent match at

the national stadium.

With rumours that Spurs’ new ground will not be complete until February at the earliest, and with three home games to come in the next fortnight, Pochettino knows that his players cannot afford to drop many more points in front of their own fans.

Either side of a trip to arch-rivals Arsenal on December 3, Tottenham have huge matches against Chelsea, Inter Milan and Southampton to prepare for. In what has been a strange campaign for the Lilywhites so far, this really is defining the period.

The international break may just have come at the wrong time for Spurs, however, as they had put together a four-match winning run in all competitions prior to the two-week hiatus.

Should that run extended to five matches this weekend, Spurs will leapfrog their city rivals into third place - not bad for a side enduring

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GLOBAL SOCCER PremiershipTable TEAM Man City Liverpool Chelsea Tottenham Arsenal Bournemouth Watford Man Utd Everton Leicester Wolves Brighton West Ham Newcastle Burnley Crystal Palace Southampton Cardi HuddersďŹ eld Fulham

P 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12

GD 31 18 19 10 11 5 3 -1 4 1 -1 -5 -4 -6 -13 -9 -13 -14 -16 -20

PTS 32 30 28 27 24 20 20 20 19 17 16 14 12 9 9 8 8 8 7 5

Fixture TODAY Brighton

v Leicester

15:00

Everton

v Cardi City 15:00

Fulham

v S’thampton 15:00

Man Utd

v C’ Palace

15:00

Watford

v Liverpool

15:00

West Ham

v Man City

15:00

Tottenham

v Chelsea

17:30

Bournemouth

v Arsenal

13:30

Wolvers

v HuddersďŹ eld 16:00

SUNDAY

Hot Shots Sergio Aguero Aubameyang Eden Hazard Mohamed Salah Glenn Murray Sadio ManĂŠ Raheem Sterling Harry Kane Richarlison Callum Wilson Glenn Murray Sadio Mane Anthony Martial their so-called toughest spell since Pochettino took charge.

Despite many expecting Sarri to struggle upon his delayed arrival at Stamford Bridge in mid-July, the Italian has hit the ground running in his first managerial stint outside of his native Italy.

Sarri, in fact, became the first manager to go his first 12 games unbeaten in the Premier League with the goalless draw against Everton a fortnight ago, surpassing Frank Clark’s long-held record of 11 matches set at Nottingham Forest in 1994.

Not since 2014 have Chelsea started a topflight campaign on a better run, though the Everton stalemate prior to the international break did halt them in their tracks somewhat, allowing Tottenham to close the gap to just one point, while Liverpool and Manchester City pulled further clear above them.

The Blues, champions in two of the last four seasons, have now drawn four of their last seven league matches, having also been held by West Ham United and fellow big boys Liverpool and Manchester United in the past nine weeks.

Before firing a blank against Marco Silva’s stubborn Everton side, Chelsea had racked up five successive wins in all competitions, including victories over Crystal Palace and Burnley in the Premier League, Derby County in the EFL Cup last 16 and BATE Borisov (twice) in the Europa League.

With their progress to the knockout stages of the Europa League already secured, and a winnable quarter-final tie against Bournemouth in the EFL Cup to look forward

to before Christmas, this is shaping up to be a memorable first season at the helm for popular boss Sarri.

Top of the Italian’s list of priorities will no doubt by the Premier League, even if he has tried his best to play down his side’s chances of not only closing the gap on Man City but also holding off a strong Liverpool side.

The good news for the West London outfit is that they have beaten Spurs on four previous occasions at Wembley - more than any club has beaten another at the ground.

Tottenham meanwhile, will be banking on more Harry Kane heroics against Chelsea after their talisman fired England to a dramatic last-gasp victory at Wembley.

Kane scored the winner at Tottenham’s temporary home last weekend to relegate Croatia in the Nations League and exact some revenge for England’s semi-final defeat to the same opponents at the World Cup. “He is the best goalscorer in the world... his hold-up play, as well as the goals he brings, is critical,� said England manager Gareth Southgate after England clinched a place in the Nations League Finals. “He is so hungry to lead the team even further.�

Spurs have suffered the after-effects of a demanding summer for most of Pochettino’s squad.

Kane is just one of the three Spurs players not to have picked up a muscle injury from Tottenham’s 12-strong World Cup contingent, nine of whom were involved in the final weekend of the tournament less than a month before the new season began.

Despite battling fatigue and fitness concerns, added to the uncertainty over when the club’s new stadium will be finished, Pochettino has admirably kept Spurs on track for a top-four finish for the fourth straight season.

Sarri has rightly earned rave reviews for his 18-game unbeaten start to life as Chelsea boss. Yet, should Spurs inflict Sarri’s first defeat, they will leapfrog Chelsea into third, thanks to their impressive start to the Premier League season.

HEAD TO HEAD 01/04/18 20/08/17 04/01/17 26/11/16 02/05/16 29/11/15 01/01/15 03/12/14 08/03/14 28/09/13 08/05/13 20/10/12 24/03/12 22/12/11 30/04/11

Chelsea 1-3 Tottenham Tottenham 1-2 Chelsea Tottenham 2-0 Chelsea Chelsea 2-1 Hotspur Chelsea 2-2 Tottenham Tottenham 0-0 Chelsea Tottenham 5-3 Chelsea Chelsea 3-0 Tottenham Chelsea 4-0 Tottenham Tottenham 1-1 Chelsea Chelsea 2-2 Tottenham Tottenham 2-4 Chelsea Chelsea 0-0 Tottenham Tottenham 1-1 Chelsea Chelsea 2-1 Tottenham

Man City Arsenal Chelsea Liverpool Brighton Liverpool Man City Tottenham Everton B’mouth Brighton Liverpool Man U

8 7 7 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6

La Liga Fixture TODAY Eibar Valencia Huesca AtlĂŠtico SUNDAY Bilbao Sevilla Espanyol Villarreal MONDAY Sociedad

v v v v

Madrid Vallecano Levante Barcelona

12:00 15:15 17:30 19:45

v v v v

Getafe Valladolid Girona Real Betis

12:00 15:15 17:30 19:45

v Celta Vigo

20:00

SERIE A TODAY Udinese Juventus Inter SUNDAY Parma Bologna Empoli Napoli Lazio Genoa

v Roma v SPAL v Frosinone

14:00 17:00 19:30

v v v v v v

12:30 14:00 14:00 14:00 17:00 19:30

Sassuolo Fiorentina Atalanta Chievo AC Milan Sampdoria

34

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍşÍźËœ ͺ͸͚΀

GLOBAL SOCCER\\OTHER SPORTS

Siasia, 48 Others Apply for Gor Mahia Job Former Nigerian national team coach Samson Siasia is among coaches who have applied for the vacant Gor Mahia job even as the record Kenyan champions brace for a tough CAF Champions League preliminary round first leg clash against Malawi champions Nyasa Bullets at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Wednesday.

Siasia, 51, led Nigeria U-23 at the 2008 and 2016 Summer Olympics winning silver and bronze medals respectively. He also clinched the African Youth Championship with the U-20 side in 2005 among some of his career highlights.

By Friday afternoon, 48 coaches had tendered in their CVs eyeing the post that fell vacant after the resignation of Briton Dylan Kerr, who has since joined South African top-tier outfit Black Leopards.

In a shocking turn of events, there’s no Kenyan coach who has officially applied for the job even as hopes for assistant coach Zedekiah “Zico� Otieno to be handed the job on a permanent basis dwindle.

Rwandese Olivier Karekezi, Portuguese Rui Nascimento, Italian Giovanni Petraglia, Serbians Goran Kopunovic, Dragon Popadic and Zlatko Krmpotic - the latter formerly at TP Mazembe of DR Congo and Zesco United of Zambia - have all sent their applications.

Former AFC Leopards coach, Belgian Luc Eymael and current Rayon Sports’ Brazilian tactician Roberto Oliveira had been tagged as favourites before Eymael bolted out of the race to join Egyptian side El Geish SC. As the search for a head coach continues, the 17-time SportPesa Premier League (SPL) have put Zico temporarily in charge.

“We are still sieving through the CVs till next week when we shall call for a sitting to zero down on what we have,� Gor Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lordvick Aduda toldNation Sport on Friday.

Gor has posted success with coaches from the United Kingdom in recent times, notably, Bobby Williamson in 2013 to Frank Nuttall and recently Kerr, a factor Aduda alluded will be considered during the vetting process. “We want someone who will take Gor Mahia to the next level and have an impact in the Champions League, he has to understand African football,� he offered.

Meanwhile, the team continued with their preparations for Wednesday’s match with a double training session at Camp Toyoyo grounds, a day after the club cleared the Sh340,000 debt that had seen them locked

Egyptian Giants Al Ahly Sack Coach

StarTimes to Broadcast 2018 Ballon d’Or Ceremony Africa’s leading digital TV operator StarTimes on Thursday announced that it is going to broadcast the 2018 Ballons d’Or ceremony with its World Football Channel on December 3, when the winner of the annual football award is to be unveiled.

Ballon d’Or is considered by many as the highest honour for football players. And the past 10 years have seen only two players win the Ballon d’Or – Lionel Messi and Christiano Ronaldo. But this year’s Ballon d’Or is highly possible to be the edition to end the 10-year reign with reports suggesting that Luka Modric is likely to win this year’s honour after he recently won the Best FIFA Men’s Player award.

The live broadcast of the 2018 Ballon d’Or ceremony with StarTimes World Football is to start at 20:00 GMT, which is to unveil the winner in real time. “This year’ Ballon d’Or ceremony definitely attracts the wide attention of football fans and we may see a historic moment that a new winner of the award in 10 years,� said Shi Maochu, StarTimes Sports Director. “Live broadcast of the 2018 Ballon d’Or shows our commitment to fans that StarTimes always search for best football contents. We brought all 64 HD World Cup matches to African fans this summer, and we continuously offer top international football matches to audiences, such as Bundesliga, Ligue 1 and Coppa Italia.�

According to the StarTimes Sports Director, local football leagues are important parts of the company’s content strategy.

StarTimes became the strategic partner of three African football championships, in Ghana, Uganda and Senegal. With these partnerships, StarTimes intends to promote the leagues in sub-Saharan Africa and improves the popularity of African football.

L-R: President, Nigerian Football Federation, NFF, Amaju Pinnick, Executive Governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa presenting the 2018 Nigerian Sports Award (NSA) Footballer of the Year Award to Nigeria’s Super Eagles’ Stand-In Captain, Ahmed Musa at the Nigeria - Uganda International friendly football match in Asaba Stadium, Delta State on Tuesday

Rohr Commences Holiday, Back in January Super Eagles Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr, has commenced his winter holiday and is expected back in the country in January, footballlive.ng can report.

Rohr is heading for a long break away from Eagles’ duty, following a busy spell that saw his side play four matches across two months in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

It turned into a remarkable turnaround of fortunes for the Eagles, following their disappointing first-round ouster at the World Cup in Russia, as they beat Seychelles away, won home and away against Libya, then wrapped it up with a 1-1 draw in South Africa last weekend.

Just three days after sharing points with Bafana Bafana at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, Rohr was again on the bench for the Eagles in an international friendly against Uganda at Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

Although many Nigerians were disappointed to see that match end goalless in the Delta State capital, they took consolation from seeing several young players get starting shirts with the Eagles, as Rohr keeps up his vision of building a formidable squad for the future.

Incidentally, about this time in 2017, Rohr headed out to celebrate the yuletide season of Christmas and New Year with his Madagascan wife.

Cadbury Congratulates Super Eagles on AFCON 2019 QualiďŹ cation Cadbury Nigeria Plc, manufacturers of TomTom, has congratulated the Super Eagles on the team’s qualification for the 2019 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament, which will take place in Cameroon.

In a statement, the company’s Corporate and Government Affairs Director for West Africa, Mr. Bala Yesufu, said the Super Eagles have made Nigerians proud by securing the AFCON 2019 ticket over the weekend. Yesufu assured that TomTom, the ‘Official Candy of the Super Eagles’, is with the team all the way to Cameroon.

TomTom, an ardent supporter of the

out of the facility for weeks.

Their opponents Nyasa Bullets were slated to play Chitipa United in the quarter-finals of Malawi FISD Challenge Cup on Friday at Kamuzu Stadium.

Malawian portal, Nyasa Times, reported on Thursday that the country’s most popular club, through their CEO Fleetwood Haiya, had asked the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) to reschedule the fixture as it would put them at a disadvantage before flying to play Gor. FAM, however, disputed the complaint through media manager Gomezgani Zakazaka.

Another Malawi side, Silver Strikers had their Challenge Cup match postponed to allow them time to travel to Gabon. They made a stopover in Nairobi to play Tusker in friendly on Friday.

Super Eagles, gave out free candies to all the fans in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, last month, during the match between the Super Eagles and the Mediterranean Knights of Libya. Nigeria won the match by four goals to nil.

Yesufu said: “We are excited that Nigeria will be competing again in AFCON after missing out on two successive editions. The Super Eagles have shown strength of character, resilience, and tactical discipline throughout the qualifiers. We have no doubt that this youthful team will make us proud in Cameroon.�

He also commended the Nigerian

Football Federation (NFF) led by Mr. Amaju Pinnick, Super Eagles’ Manager, Gernot Rohr and the rest of the crew, for providing an enabling environment for the players to excel, noting that this has paid off.

Meanwhile, TomTom has emerged winner of the ‘Best Digital Campaign in Nigeria,’ at the Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN) award, which held over the weekend in Lagos. Bala attributed this achievement to the holistic exploitation of TomTom as the Official Candy of the Super Eagles, which was executed across major media platforms including digital.

Eight-times African champions Al Ahly have sacked their coach Patrice Carteron after he fell just short of winning them a ninth crown.

The Cairo giants were beaten over two legs in the 2018 final by Tunisia’s Esperance.

His final game in charge saw the team go out of the Arab Champions Cup in the early rounds, to a team from the UAE. Carteron had only been appointed in June, after the sacking of previous coach Hossam El Badry.

El Badry lost his job after an earlier shock in the 2018 Champions League - a group phase defeat by Uganda’s KCCA. Carteron, who won the competition when he was coach of TP Mazembe, was expressly appointed because of his former success.

Ahly have an intense schedule to complete over the rest of the domestic season because of their multiple continental and regional involvements.

They have played only six matches in the Egyptian Premier League - that is nine fewer than some teams - and lie in last place, 18 points behind their great local rivals Zamalek, who are top.

UBA Sets up Fidelity Bank in 2018 Bankers Games Final

Five-time champions, United Bank of Africa (UBA) will this Sunday take on former winners, Fidelity Bank in the football final of the on-going 2018 Nigeria Bankers Games at the YabaTech Sports Complex, Yaba.

In the football semifinals, UBA went up against FCMB in a close contest but goals from Yemi Lawal and Uche Akonu booked UBA’s first final appearance since 2014.

The second match saw reigning champions Fidelity Bank battle Union Bank for the last final spot. Fidelity Bank’s Tobi Ayodokun scored the opener before Mark Emejiscored a screamer to book Fidelity Bank’s fourth consecutive final appearance.

The exciting semi-finals were graced by Desmond Anumkua - Divisional Head, Internal Control Compliance, Fidelity Bank; Kola Musa – Group Head, Human Resources, FCMB; Muyiwa Ebitanmi – Head Sales and Distribution, Union Bank; Frances Diribe – PM Compliance Unit, Union Bank and Hall of Famers Eric Iruh and Theo Amadi.

The third-place match will feature FCMB trading tackles with Union Bank.

Other highlights on the grand finale include the athletics event -100m, 200m and4x100m relay finals and a novelty match between Page Financials and the Corporate Nigeria Hall of Famers.

The closing ceremony, according to the organisers is slated to start by 12 noon.

35

ÍşÍźËœ ͺ͸͚΀ Ëž THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

GLOBAL SOCCER

AWCON

No Room for Complacency as Falcons Eye Sâ€™ďŹ nal Berth Super Falcons’ hope of defending the 2018 African Women Cup of Nations in Ghana started on a shocking note as they were stunned 1-0 by South Africa in their opening match. However, the eight times champion bounced back in their second match pummeling Shepolopolo of Zambia in Cape Coast 4-0

T

he Falcons would need an outright victory against weeping baby of the group-Equatorial Guinea to book a semifinal berth.

The Nzalang Nacional who made their return to the tournament for the first time since they claimed the title in 2012, are technically out of the tournament after losing their first two games and conceeding 12 goals in the process.

Against a Falcons side that seems to have found their groove after losing their first game, Nzalang Nacional look likely for another pummeling.

Falcons coach, Thomas Dennerby was never in doubt about his team going all the way in spite of the initial slip. “We have a very strong team, time is good for us, the more we are together the more we play together, everybody knows we didn’t have the best of friendlies but our aim is still there, which is to win the trophy and qualify for the World Cup,� said Dennerby.

Dennerby admitted that in spite of the 4-0 bashing of Zambia, his team was yet to get to the level he expects.

He said: “First of all, I am very happy we managed to score four goals in the game.

Of course I am happier than three days ago.

But honestly, I am not 100 per cent happy with our performance because we should have scored more goals. After our opening game in which we lost, I talked about being professional and using experience to come back in the next game, not being anxious.�

The coach said the win over Zambia was still not enough to take his team out of the woods, pointing out that they needed to work harder. “I don’t think this game we won today (Wednesday) is the defining game in the group, and now we have to work harder

Oshoala tries to waltze pass Zambian defender

in our next fixture so as to secure a place in the semifinals. So, we stay cool and keep working,� Dennerby said.

The Falcons take on Equatorial Guinea today in their final Group B match, needing to win with a massive haul of goals if they are to top the group.

With South Africa thumping Equatorial Guinea 7-1 later on Wednesday in the group’s other match, Nigeria dropped into second place from the top they occupied earlier.

However, today’s matches still hold so much impact on semi-final qualification, with the trio of Nigeria, South Africa and Zambia very much in the race.

While South Africa look to have the easiest task, a 0-3 loss to Zambia and a 2-0 win over Equatorial Guinea by Nigeria can undo many things.

It can see the Banyana Banyana dropping to third and missing qualification, with Nigeria in top place and Zambia as runners-up.

But South Africa only need to avoid defeat or a 0-3 loss to finish among the semi-finalists.

Nigeria and Zambia must win and with 2-0 and 3-0 scorelines respectively, to be semi-finalists.

Nigeria need to win at least 1-0 against two-times champions Equatorial Guinea to finish among the top two, if South Africa beat or draw with Zambia.

But in case of a Zambia win, Nigeria will need a bigger win against Equatorial Guinea who have beaten them to the title twice in the past (2008 and 2012).

However, the Falcons look to be in a better shape to win this time around against the team they beat to the title in 2010.

Meanwhile Falcons Captain, Onome Ebi has revealed that the Nigeria Football Federation has fully motivated the team

to go all the way and retain their WACON trophy at the ongoing championship in Ghana. “The NFF have done their part very well.

The ball is now in our court to do our part and make Nigerians happy, by winning against Equatorial Guinea today and going ahead to win a ticket to the World Cup and also retain our African title.�

Speaking to thenff.com, Ebi said victory over Zambia only meant the team was gradually returning to great shape. “We are getting back to shape. In the first game against South Africa, it was not the Super Falcons that Africa knew that turned up.

Defeat made us to talk hard to ourselves.

I think we are getting back to the form known of Super Falcons, the champions.

We are not there yet but we are still pushing ourselves to reach our normal level. I believe our third game will definitely be much better.�

The experienced defender said it had never crossed her mind that the Super Falcons would leave the tournament at the group stage. “I never thought about that. I don’t think that is possible because to me I see us in the semi finals already. I have strong faith in the team that we are going to beat Equatorial Guinea and then we will take the knockout stage one match at a time. “Nigerians should keep praying for us.

They should keep believing in the Super Falcons because we are here for the trophy and we are here to qualify for the World Cup. I believe that with hard work and with God on our side, we are going to achieve our twin objectives.�

Chairman of the Nigeria Women Football League, Aisha Falode has stated that all the matches at the championship are crucial, and that the Super Falcons will always be a strong contender for World Cup ticket having never failed to qualify for the global

championship. “Every match is crucial; we are here as African champions. We not only want to qualify for the World Cup; we want to be a strong contender for the Women’s World Cup trophy come France 2019. “The first match was somewhat demoralizing. It was not the result that we expected.

It was as shocking as it was stunning to all Nigerians, including the players. They were not happy with the performance, but as true champions that they are, they put it behind them, went into the next game against Zambia and won handsomely to re-build their confidence. “We always believe in the Super Falcons to get us result. We always believe that they are not only strong mentally, they are strong as individuals and as a unit. We are now on the right track. They girls are motivated, they are concentrating. They have been given everything they need to perform and excel. They have been paid their bonuses and allowances. Every game is important until we lift the trophy back to Nigeria and secure our ticket to World Cup.�

Group B TEAM South Africa Nigeria Zambia E’Guinea

P 2 2 2 2

GD 7 3 1 -11

FIXTURES

TODAY South Africa v Zambia 5pm Equatorial Guinea v Nigeria 5pm

Ortega with Man of the Match award

PTS 6 3 3 0

36

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t NOVEMBER 24, 2018

FAIRGROUND Moet & Chandon "Must Be" Secret Location Garden Party

with

AZUKA OGUJIUBA

azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

L

uxurious champagne brand Moët & Chandon is known to constantly create moments of celebration and jollification, and the highly anticipated Moët Garden Party that held at a very secret location in Banana Island was no different.

Seventy-five exclusively invited guests converged at a specified location last Sunday, November 18 and at 1:00 pm, were chauffeured to the much awaited secret spot.

It was indeed a pleasant surprise as guests arrived the secret location specially tailored for the purpose and the moment. The indoor constructed garden was tastefully put together and had a jungle-feel ambience to it to celebrate the launch of the Limited Edition Nectar Imperial “Urban Jungle” bottle. Different shades of green could be spotted all around the room, giving it the perfect Garden Party feel as intended.

“Our sole aim was to introduce our new campaign #MUSTBEMOET and debut the limited edition Nectar Imperial Urban Jungle bottle whilst reminding consumers why it must be Moët & Chandon for life’s celebratory moments”, said Brand Manager, Champagnes, Moët Hennessy, Elizabeth Oputa.

The room was filled with socialites and society influencers including Waje, Seyi Shay, Ini Dima-Okojie, Yagazie, Denola Grey, Elohor Isiohor, Ufoma McDermott, Mimi Onalaja Jimmie, Abimbola Craig, Lily Afegbai, Jane Michael Ekanem, Sisiano Paolo, Nancy Isime and many more, who enjoyed the mouthwatering five-course meal carefully curated by Chef Daniel. Each course was paired with a Moët & Chandon variety to pair with, and the Nectar Imperial Urban Jungle bottle was officially launched by being paired with the Deconstructed Crumble and Victorian Angel Cake.

While the guests were having a great time, their attention was shifted to the large display screen in the room as the campaign video for #MustBeMoet played. That moment further emphasised the role of Moet & Chandon as the champagne of celebrations! Whether you just had a baby or you just closed the biggest deal of your career or even the first landing on the moon, it confirms that once there is a need to rejoice, it #MustBeMoet.

Merriments continued in the patio where an array of games were prepared for the guests, including a foosball table, mini golf, X and Os, Jenga & more, all life-sized. There was a lot of mingling, networking, dancing, photo-ops.

It was surely a perfect #MoetMoment!

ABOUT MOËT & CHANDON Founded in 1743, Moët & Chandon contributed to introduce champagne to the world by offering a range of unique wines for every occasion.

From iconic Moët Impérial to the Grand Vintage Collection, from the extroverted Moët Rosé Impérial to the innovative Moët Ice Impérial, each champagne dazzles and delights with bright fruitiness, an enticing palate and an elegant maturity.

Moët & Chandon celebrates the thrill of living.

With a bottle of its champagne opened every second around the globe, Moët & Chandon knows that every second is an experience, and every experience is a #MoetMoment to live now.

L-R: Denola Grey and Yagazie

L-R: Ini Dima-Okogie; Waje; and Lilian Afegbai

Dapo Aderenle

Ufuoma Mcdermott

Eno Bello

Abimbola Craig (r) and a guest

Waje

Elizabeth Oputa

Guests toast

L-R: Elizabeth Oputa; Elohor Isiohor; and a guest

37

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t NOVEMBER 24, 2018

FAIRGROUND

Zainab Balogun, Richard Mofe Damijo Star in 'God Calling'

G

od Calling, is a story of redemption that looks at the life of Sade, her family and her faith through the lens of an unconventional encounter with God in this modern age.

After Sade, the protagonist, suffers a personal tragedy, she goes on a journey of selfdiscovery and faith as she battles with the conflicting pressures of family, culture, and social expectations. The movie shines a spotlight on modern day spirituality by imaginatively exploring what it might look like for Abraham or Prophet Elijah to be Nigerian in 2018, and have to contend with disbelief as well as current realities such as smartphones, and social media.

Sade’s journey sees her go through modern-day experiences of some of the tent poles of the Christian faith, as all around her discover their own faith through her journey. This movie will leave audiences asking – ‘what is God calling me to do?’

The movie was Written & Directed by BB Sasore and stars Zainab Balogun, Karibi Fubara, Richard Mofe Damijo, Onyeka Onwenu, Nkem Owoh, Tina Mba, Patrick Diabuah, Ademola Adedoyin and others.

Richard Mofe Damijo and Tina Mba

Helen Couture Launches Luxury Flagship Store with Impressive Party

O

n Friday, November 9th 2018, luxury brand, Helen Couture celebrated the launch of its new flagship store in Lagos at 100a, Illupeju Street, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos. The fashion brand debuted its exclusive collection of luxury bridal, bespoke and ready-to-wear pieces.

These uniquely tailored pieces were complemented by the beautiful aesthetics of the atelier which perfectly eluded sophisticated, exquisite and timeless fashion in line with the theme of the event. Each design was displayed on mannequins strategically placed in versatile positions where guests could admire and appreciate every detail of the flawless outfits. The illumination and radiance reflected coupled with the vibrant colours of the dresses, created a picturesque backdrop for guests to take beautiful pictures. Particularly stealing the show was the Glory dress; an ivory coloured bridal-inspired work-of-art perfectly hand-crafted and beaded with authentic pearls and feathers.

At the event, creative director and founder of Helen Couture, Helen Chukwu, raved about the collection saying “I’m super excited that everyone can finally get to see and appreciate these pieces.

A lot of hard-work, time and resources have been accumulated to bring this collection to fruition.

Helen Couture isn’t just any fashion brand, we are dedicated to making every woman feel special and stand out in our pieces. We provide a diverse range of styles for the modern woman with style” The upscale event attracted big-wigs in the Nigerian fashion and lifestyle scene, celebrities and personalities from different works of life who came to oke Makinwa, Idia Aisien, Dj Obi, , L.A.X, Denola Grey, Swanky Jerry and many more.

A reception followed the main event were guests were treated to an unlimited supply of refreshments. G.H Mumm had guests relishing their glasses of champagne with other guests having the option of infusing Martell cognac into their cocktails as they connected with friends, networked and enjoyed great music.

Helen Chukwu is the founder & Creative Director of Helen Couture which launched in the UK in 2011 and has an outlet in Dubai, Los Angles and now Lagos. She has worked with Dubai’s big Fashion House, and with renowned

L-R: Dakore Egbuson-Akande; Rachel Oniga; Ini Edo; Kate Henshaw; Funke Akindele; and Shaffy Bello

'Chief Daddy' Debuts

Helen

Nigerian fashion designer like Lanre Da Silva-Ajayi.

Helen draws inspiration for her design from all her travels and experiences. With her having so much experience/success under her belt.

O

n Thursday, November 15th, 2018, EbonyLife Films hosted selected guests to an exclusive screening of upcoming feature film, Chief Daddy. Members of the press, cast and cinema operators were all present to view the movie as it debuted for the first time at the new Filmhouse cinema, Twin Waters, Oniru, Lagos.

As anticipated, Chief Daddy was a hit with guests as they watched the hilarious movie for the very first

Unusual Praise 2018 Takes Place Nov 30

T

he 8th edition of Unusual Praise will take place on Friday, November 30, 2018.

The Unusual Praise 2018 is one of the most anticipated Praise Nights of the year, where worshippers will be treated to a night of unforgettable spiritual connection, singing and worshiping with an amazing lineup featuring 12 time grammy award winning gospel ministers, Cece Winans, Tim Godfrey, Mahalia Buchanan, Chioma Jesus, Bukola Bekes, Panam Percy Paul, Midnight Crew, Frank Edwards, Mercy Chinwo, Preye Odede and a host of other anointed minister.

Unusual Praise has quickly grown to become the biggest of its kind within

the Catholic Community in Africa- with explosive and spirit filled performances

by Megastar Acts such as Sinach, Nicole C Mullen, Don Moen, Olumide Dada, Frank Edwards, Sr. Agatha Ozah, Steve Crown and a plethora of globally recognised gospel stars in previous years.

This year’s edition promises to take things to another level with spirit filled acts you cannot afford to miss, quality content and most importantly a refreshing and uplifting experience in the presence of God. For more information, please visit their website www.unusualpraise. com and stay updated via their social media channels Instagram @unusualpraise; Twitter- @unusualpraise and FacebookUnusual Praise.

time. The hysterical scenes had viewers laughing so hard that tears streamed down their faces. The surprise hit of the screening was a hilarious but nuanced performance from Folarin ‘Falz’ Falana, as his character “AK Famzy”, of the movie’s theme song “Moving Mad”. The melody and lyrics of the song were so catchy that viewers continued to sing it even after the movie was over..

At the screening, reporters and critics got a first look at the movie; allowing them the opportunity to enjoy the experience and express their first-hand opinions about it. Pleased with the turnout, Mo Abudu, executive producer of the movie, said “The buzz is amazing! I am delighted to have received positive and encouraging reviews from our stakeholders and the media about our new film, Chief Daddy.

It’s great that everyone is so excited, it was humbling to witness the effect that the movie had on the viewers, the laughter could not be contained and we all had a blast. This just proves that Chief Daddy is the movie to watch this holiday; it is a movie that will leave you grinning from cheek to cheek from start to finish - I can’t wait for the movie to hit the big screen.”

With the teasers and trailer of the movie dominating the digital airspace, Chief Daddy has become the most anticipated movie for the holidays. Fans are most excited about the very diverse cast, which features comedic pairings such as, Kate Henshaw and Funke Akindele, Patience Ozokwor and Nkem Owoh, Chioma ‘Chigul’ Omeruah and Chinedu ‘Nedu’ Ani, and the dramatic duo from EbonyLife TV’s hit series, Castle & Castle, Dakore EgbusonAkande and Richard Mofe-Damijo.

38

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t NOVEMBER 24, 2018

AUTO Volvo Cars to show nothing at Automobility LA

Mercedes GLE450

Mercedes-Benz Cars Premieres Mercedes-AMG Sports Cars Stories by Bennett Oghifo

T

he world premieres of the Mercedes-AMG GTR PRO with combined fuel consumption: 12.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 284 g/km, and the updated Mercedes-AMG GT model series at the Auto Show in Los Angeles, taking placing from 28 November to 9 December can once again be witnessed live by on-demand video throughout the world this year.

The limited-edition special AMG GT R PRO model was modified in numerous details to deliver even more racetrack performance, said the automaker in a statement this week. “This incorporated the findings from our successful Customer Racing activities with AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars. The update of the AMG GT series includes modifications to the exterior and interior that emphasise the close relationship to the 4-door AMG GT Coupé.”

The new Mercedes-Benz GLE will celebrate its public premiere in the USA.

With its innovative 48 V suspension and the fully variable MATIC all-wheel drive available for the first time (from six cylinder variants upwards), it is as comfortable as a luxury saloon on the road and more assertive than ever when off-road.

The new A-Class is likewise entering the limelight of a US motor show for the first time, marking the entry of Mercedes-Benz of America into a new market segment.

Other highlights at the show include the Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Coupé and Cabriolet models (combined fuel consumption: 8.9-8.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 204-200 g/km), the CLS 53 4MATIC+ (combined fuel consumption: 8.9-8.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 203-200 g/km) and the G 63 (combined fuel consumption: 13.1 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 299 g/km).

Meanwhile, the new Sprinter has been produced completely in the USA for the first time. The business unit MercedesBenz Vans has presented the new Sprinter to the US public for the first time. This legendary van is now also produced in

the USA: As part of the “Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global” strategy, production of the Sprinter commenced in the new plant in North Charleston, South Carolina in September, with its own bodyshop, paintshop and final assembly.

In every sub-discipline, the third generation of the Sprinter defines the pinnacle of the large van segment.

Its classic strengths have been enhanced even further, and supplemented with full connectivity plus intelligent products and services. Outstanding new features include the new multimedia system MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience), the cockpit control and display system, ergonomically shaped seats and modern assistance systems, which have found their way into a Mercedes-Benz van for the first time. [i] The stated figures were determined in accordance with the prescribed measuring method. These are NEDC CO2 values according to Art. 2 No. 1 Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. The fuel consumption figures were calculated based on these figures.

Volvo Cars comes to Automobility LA this year with a world-first: not a single car on the stand.

Instead the company will demonstrate its vision, redefining what a car can be, according to a statement by the automaker.

“Since motor shows were introduced, the car has always been a centrepiece, on a rotating stage or covered under a silk sheet. Yet cars are changing, the industry is changing and so are the expectations of people who use cars. Volvo at Automobility LA reflects these changes.”

How consumers experience a car brand is today more important than chrome, leather or horsepower. So on the Volvo stand, visitors will look to the central space where they would expect to find a car, and instead see a simple yet surprising statement: ‘This Is Not A Car’.

“By calling the trade show Automobility LA, the organisers have recognised the disruption affecting our industry,” said Mårten Levenstam, responsible for product strategy at Volvo Cars. “We want to demonstrate that we got the memo and start a conversation about the future of automobility. So instead of bringing a concept car, we talk about the concept of a car. We will not win the ‘car of the show’ award this year, but we are comfortable with that. Because this is not a car show.”

In addition to this powerful statement, Volvo Cars will show a number of interactive demonstrations of connectivity services, such as in-car delivery, car sharing, its vision for autonomous driving as displayed in the Volvo 360c concept and the car subscription service Care by Volvo.

“Our industry is changing. Rather than just building and selling cars, we will really provide our customers with the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way,” said Håkan Samuelsson, chief executive of Volvo Cars. “We offer our customers access to a car, including new attractive services whenever and wherever they want it.”

Volvo Cars really believes in the power of strategic partnerships.

With established tech companies like Amazon, Google and Nvidia, as well as with technology startups like Luminar and Zenuity, Volvo demonstrates innovative interaction with new types of partners.

With the new company purpose Freedom to Move in a personal, sustainable and safe way, Volvo sets the direction for the future. By the middle of next decade, half of the annual car volume will be fully electric, onethird will be autonomous and Volvo will establish over 5 million direct consumer relationships.

Toyota Camry Hybrid Crowned Drive Car ofThe Year

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he Toyota Camry Ascent Sport Hybrid has been named Drive Car of the Year in the annual consumerfocused motoring awards.

The Camry hybrid beat 49 other finalists across 14 categories to take out the top award, having already been named Best Family Car in the prestigious awards’ 13th year.

The Camry hybrid won the top accolade after an exhaustive week-long evaluation that included testing on urban and rural roads as well as a series of exercises on a closed circuit to test vehicle safety in a controlled environment.

In making the award, the Drive Network judges praised the Camry hybrid for its spacious cabin, efficient powertrain and engaging yet comfortable on-road manners, and most importantly, its outstanding value for money.

Toyota Australia’s Vice President, National Sales & Marketing, Sean Hanley said winning the award was a testament to the car’s design, packaging, quality, advanced safety technology,

and in particular, the performance and economy offered by its hybrid powertrain.

“Toyota is firmly committed to its hybrid technology and winning awards like this reaffirms that we have a great product that not only appeals to customers, but is critically acclaimed by expert judges who drive hundreds of new cars every year,” Mr Hanley said.

‘It also vindicates Toyota’s enormous investment in hybrid drive technology and its determination to deliver it as a mainstream powertrain option where it has been the only carmaker to continuously offer hybrid drive in theAustralian market for the past 17 years.

“Toyota’s refined hybrid technology allows it to produce vehicles that offer both smooth, powerful performance and outstanding fuel economy that saves customers money on fuel costs and their whole of life motoring costs.

“These are clearly factors that appeal to our customers with hybrid versions accounting for 48 per cent of Camry orders, making Camry the best-selling hybrid vehicle in Australia.

Toyota Camry Ascent Sport Hybrid

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t NOVEMBER 24, 2018

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AUTO

New Range Rover Evoque Luxury SUV for City, Beyond Stories by Bennett Oghifo

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aguar Land Rover has announced that Evoque, the original luxury compact SUV has got even better.At home both in the city andthemountains,thenewEvoquejoinsthe Range Rover family with a choice of diesel and petrol engines. Having pioneered the luxurycompactSUVmarket,withglobalsalesofover 772,096 and more than 217 international awards, the newRangeRoverEvoqueisasophisticatedevolution of the original. Combining unrivalled Range Rover heritage with cutting-edge technology – designed, engineered and manufactured in Britain – it meets the needs of today’s customers.

Finbar McFall, Global Marketing Director, Jaguar Land Rover, said: “Eight years ago we created a new segment and the world followed. Now we have redefined what it means to be a luxury compact SUV. With design and capability at its heart and the latest technology to hand, the new Range Rover Evoque meets your needs like never before and ensures you reach your destination, no matter the conditions.”

Building on the original’s instantly-recognisable design, the new Range Rover Evoque is a sophisticated evolution of the distinctive coupé-like silhouette, typified by its distinctive fast roofline and rising waist that identify the Range Rover family. The outstanding volume and proportions are amplified by its pronounced shoulders and powerful wheel arches that, alongside 21-inch wheels, combine to create a strong and dynamic attitude.

The introduction of jewel-like elements such as super-slim Matrix LED headlamps provide a more sophisticated front and rear lamp graphic. Flush door handles add to the smooth, sculpted aesthetic, while sweeping directional indicators create a purposeful

New Range Rover Evogue signature.OptionalR-Dynamicdetailsandburnished copper accents add to the unique appeal.

Inside, the finely crafted design integrates uncluttered surfaces and simple lines with carefully curated premium materials to create a luxurious,

minimalist, digital cabin. Technical textiles that use recycled plastics are offered as premium alternatives to leather, such as a Kvadrat wool blend and Dinamica® suedecloth, as well as Eucalyptus and Ultrafabrics™ options. The cabin is designed to be a

calm and serene space, ensuring comfortable, healthy and happy occupants, with technologies such as the twin touchscreen Touch Pro Duo system, featuring new, faster software, 16-way seat controls and cabin air ionisation that complement the increased interior space.

Gerry McGovern, Land Rover Chief Design Officer, said: “When Range Rover Evoque made its debut back in 2010, it transformed the world of compact SUVs and the new model is set to continue that remarkable journey. This characterful vehicle combines refinement and fun to create that all important emotional reaction that will turn heads and make people smile.”

The footprint is almost identical, yet built on Land Rover’s new mixed-material Premium Transverse Architecture, there is more interior space than before.

Alongerwheelbaseyields20mmextrarearkneeroom and an increase in small item stowage – the larger glove box and centre cubby can now fit tablets, handbags and bottles with ease. The luggage space is 10 per cent larger (591 litres) as well as much wider and easily fits a folded pram or set of golf clubs, with space increasing to 1,383 litres when the flexible 40:20:40 second-row seats are folded.

EverybitaRangeRover,thecompactSUVcombines all-terrain capability with all-weather assurance.

New Evoque features All-Wheel Drive, as well as a second-generation Active Driveline with Driveline Disconnect to enhance efficiency andAdaptive Dynamics to deliver the optimum balance of comfort and agility.

Terrain Response 2 – technology first found on full-size Range Rover – automatically detects the surface being driven on a adjusts the set-up accordingly, while Evoque can now wade through water up to 600mm (previously 500mm).

Porsche 911 Gets off to a Flying Start withTechnical Innovations

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n 27 November, the eighth generation of the Porsche 911 will celebrate its world premiere inLosAngeles–55yearsafterthe debut of the original 911 model.

This is reason enough to take a look back at the previous seven generations. Part 2: the G Model, said the automaker in a statement this week.

The 911 entered its tenth year in 1973 – with the most far-reaching changes that Porsche had made to its successful model series so far. The Stuttgart-based car manufacturer used powerful turbo engines in its top model and a galvanised body for every vehicle, and additionally launched a Cabriolet version of the 911 and the Speedster on the market in addition to the Targa. Its path to becoming an icon was now already clearly laid out at the latest.

However, the long-running model first had to prove how adaptable it was. The stricter safety

regulations in the USA demanded that all new cars withstand a collision at eight km/h without damage when driving forwards and reversing.

Zuffenhausen therefore introduced the impact bumpers with rubber lip that are characteristic of the G model in front of the luggage compartment lid. These bumpers could be compressed by up to 50 millimetres without any damage to important vehicle parts. The collision energy was absorbed by flexible impact absorbers on the US version, and Porsche offered these as an option for all other markets. Moreover, safety in general was very important for the second 911 generation. This was shown by many details – from standard threepoint seat belts and front seats with integrated head restraints through to impact surfaces in the newly designed sports steering wheels.

The six-cylinder engine in the standard 911 already featured the 2.7-litre displacement of the 911 Carrera RS of the previous generation right at the start.

Porsche 911 Carrera

Optometrists And The Driving Blind Campaign

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gain they argued that a cursory look at the UK model shows the following; that “you must wear glasses or contact lenses every time you drive if you need them to meet the ‘standards of vision for driving. It also requires you to tell the licensing office if you have any problem with your eyesight that affects both of your eyes or the remaining eye if you only have one eye. This does not include being short or long sighted or color blind. You also need to inform them if you have had surgery to correct short sightedness and can meet the eyesight standards. This is because you could be prosecuted if you drive without meeting the standards of vision for driving. So what is the Standards of vision for driving? The standard stipulates that you must be able to read (with glasses or contact lenses, if necessary) a car number plate made after from 20 meters, you must also meet the minimum eyesight standard for driving by having a visual acuity of at least 6/9 measured on the Snellen scale(with glasses or contact lenses, if necessary) using both eyes together or, if you have sight in one eye only, in that eye. You must also have an adequate field of vision which can be provided by your optometrist after undergoing a test.

The standard differs for lorry and bus drivers who are required to have a visual acuity at least 6/6 measured on the Snellen scale in your best eye. The driver can reach this standard using glasses with a corrective power not more than (+) 8 dioptres, or

SAFE DRIVING with Jonas Agwu amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa (Corps Commander) Corps Public Education Officer Federal Road Safety Corps. + 2348033026491 with contact lenses. There’s no specific limit for the corrective power of contact lenses. You must have a horizontal visual field of at least 160 degrees; the extension should be at least 70 degrees left and right and 30 degrees up and down. No defects should be present within a radius of the central 30 degrees. The practical driving test eyesight test provides that at the start of your practical driving test, you have to correctly read a number plate on a parked vehicle.

If you cannot you will fail your driving test and the test will not continue. The licensing body will be notified and your license revoked. When you reapply for your driving license, Driver and vehicle licensing Agency will ask you to have an eyesight test with the Driver and vehicle standards Agency (DVSA) which will be at a driving test center. If you are successful in this test, you will still have to pass the DVSAstandard eyesight test at your next practical driving test in an EYE CLINIC” While pondering on the issues raised by the group, I rememberedIrecentlystumbledonaveryinteresting

material that got me ruminating on certain global developments that are critical to raising the bar on our interventions too. Let me take you through the interesting development in the United Kingdom where despite the feat achieved in road traffic crash reduction especially in the area of eye examination for intending drivers and licensed drivers, there is presently an increasing clamor by stakeholders on the need to review the procedure for driver’s license.

Report surfed indicates that there is a groundswell of opinion in favor of a long overdue change; three quarters of its members back ‘long-overdue’ changes to driver eyesight regulations. In a survey of over 2,500, road safety members under the auspices of GEM Motoring Assist, 75percent of respondents are routing for mandatory eye testing for anyone returning to driving.

This call is coming on the heels of a court ban or medical revocation – with 71 percent also in favor of requiring a current eye test certificate to be provided at the time of renewing a photo card license.According to statistics available at the Driver and vehicle licensing Agency (DVLA) nearly 50,000 motorists had their license revoked or refused between 2012 and 2016 due to poor vision. The consensus is that if you cannot see properly, you should not be driving.

This is because “poor eyesight is linked to more than 3,000 casualties every year in the United Kingdom.

Observers worry that too many people behind the wheels have eyesight that has deteriorated to an unacceptable level.

This group recommends that the practical and sensible to require a test of visual acuity and field

of view every 10 years, something that would fit in with license renewal. Such an introduction, this group argue would not only maker roads safer, but would also play a vital role in the early diagnosis of many other costly medical conditions, irrespective of driving.”

Advocates of the driving blind petition aimed at reforming eye sight regulations and for road safety are still clamoring for more support to compel government to detour. In the words of one of the proponents, “the time has come to accept that the current driver eyesight test simply isn’t fit for purpose. “ Self-certification is not acceptable for drivers, especially as more and more people expect to stay behind the wheel into their eighties and beyond. ”even with perfect eyesight, too many drivers have tunnel vision and their forward ‘observation’ appears to extend no wider than the width of their vehicles, nor do they take the trouble to take in everything that’s going on around them.

Advocates are saying that better regulation of eyesight tests for drivers would cut collisions and make roads in the United Kingdom safer noting that the only eyesight test which requires present you to take your test and have to read a number plate at 20 meters is obsolete stressing that a detailed test of a driver’s visual acuity and field of view should be required every 10 years.

ThosebehindtheclamorarelobbyingGovernment to take action to cut road deaths caused by drivers with defective vision. Driver and Vehicle licensing Agency figures indicate that nearly 50,000 motorists had their license revoked or refused between 2012 and 2016 due to poor vision. A 2014 study by the road safety pressure group, Brake, showed that 1.5 millionUKmotoristshadneverhadtheireyestested.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˞ ͺ͟, 2018

PERSPECTIVE

FIRS’s Footprints on National, Regional and Global Tax Landscape The continuous impressive performance of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) in revenue collection has attracted local and international applause, as evidenced by the prominence of its sta in the national, African and global tax spheres, writes Bennet Oghifo

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ith the sharp dip in international oil prices and its attendant erosion of the country’s earning capabilities, especially from 2014, the three tiers of government were left with no option other than to pay more attention to seeking revenue for their programmes through taxation. The years of high oil prices had induced complacency and bred a culture of indifference to taxation. This was the situation when the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari came into office in May 2015.

Things looked everything but skywards, required urgent action and more importantly, new thinking. Hunting a new game with an old dog, it was clear to observers, was not going to deliver a positive outcome.

Three years after, even as oil prices remained low-until their recent bounce-the urgent action and new thinking have delivered outcomes that were deemed almost impossible. The implementation is carried out by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), which has continued to post impressive revenue collection figures. This, unexpectedly, has drawn applause for the Service and its staff from the national and international tax communities.

By October 2018, the FIRS had collected a cumulative of N4.3 trillion in tax revenue.

In 2017, the total collection figure was N4, 027.94 trillion, the first time in many years that collection had exceeded the N4trillion mark. Of this sum, non-oil revenue accounted for N999.015 billion, comprising of N348.8 billion in excise and fees, imports duty and other customs revenues, while Companies Income Tax and other tax types delivered N650.2 billion. In 2016, collection topped at N3.3trillion.

Local and international tax experts have attributed the rise in collection figures to the increased focus on tax revenue generation to bridge the shortfall in oil revenue and a series of reforms initiated by the FIRS. In March at the 13th General Assembly of the West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF) in Abuja, Mr. Tunde Fowler, FIRS Chairman, gave reasons for the steady rise in collection figures. “In the past two years, Nigeria has taken the route of increasing the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in facilitating taxpayer’s compliance and has introduced initiatives to improve inter-agency collaboration, all with view to enhancing tax administration and reducing tax revenue leakages. Our efforts in this regard have made an impact and contributed to an increase in the taxpayers roll by an additional four million taxpayers (companies and individuals) and an increase of over N700 billion (equivalent of $2billion) in tax revenues in 2017, above the taxes collected in 2016,� Fowler said.

The progress has attracted admiring glances from the African and global tax/ revenue communities. In July, while visiting Fowler in Abuja, representatives of WATAF

Fowler

requested an opportunity to understudy the FIRS model in view of the progress it has delivered despite the country’s economic challenges, particularly the slump in oil prices.

Three months ago, the Chartered Institute of Taxation, Ghana (CITG) invited Fowler to address tax chiefs from across the West African sub-region on the topic, “Strategies for Revenue Mobilisation in Contemporary Times: Challenges in Tax Legislation�.

In his presentation, Fowler stated that continuous review of tax laws, effective communication, creative engagement with taxpayers and political will, among other things, are required by tax administrations on the continent.

Earlier, recognition of the strides made by the FIRS under Fowler had come with his election, in October 2016, as the third Chairman of the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF), when he became the first Nigerian to occupy the position. On completion of his two-year term, he was re-elected in October.

Under his leadership, ATAF has given Africa a voice in the global tax community.

Fowler has been pushing the African position at the United Nations, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) on Illicit Financial Flows (IFF), re-ordering of the global VAT equilibrium and other major key tax issues.

Less than a year after he was elected ATAF Chair, Fowler emerged a member of the 25-man United Nations (UN) International Experts Committee on Tax Matters.

Another FIRS staff playing a significant role in ATAF and UN International Experts Committee on Tax Matters is Mr Femi Edgal, a Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrator (CATA) Correspondent seconded to the Forum. Edgal is reputed to have con-

sistently expressed FIRS’ position on ATAF, UN International Experts Committee on Tax Matters and other multilateral institutions.

He has coordinated the participation of over 200 FIRS staff at various tax-related capacity development programmes organised by international bodies such as ATAF, WATAF, CATA, OECD and UN. In addition to Fowler and Edgal, Mr Mathew Odusanya Gbonjubola, FIRS Director (International Taxation), is also visible on the global tax stage. Gbonjubola is Vice Chairman, Inclusive Framework (IF), a global network of over 120 tax jurisdictions established by the G20 to present a common front in the fight against Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS). Nigeria joined the body at inception in 2016 and was one of the jurisdictions that attended the inaugural meeting held in Kyoto Japan. At the meeting, Gbonjubola was elected member of the Steering Group of the body. The Steering Group was reconstituted this year and Gbonjubola was elected the 2nd Vice Chairman for a two-year term. He also chairs the Cross-Border Taxation (CBT) Committee of ATAF, represents both Nigeria and ATAF on the Working Party 6 of the OECD and is a member of the UN Sub-committee on Transfer Pricing.

Among the achievements of the Inclusive Framework are the successive development and execution of the Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on Country-by-Country Reporting (CBCR), Multilateral Instrument on Tax Treaties, and the world-wide acceptance and implementation of other BEPS measures.

Equally visible on the global tax stage is Mr Ajayi Julius Bamidele, former FIRS Coordinating Director (Tax Operations Group). He is a former member of the UN Sub-committee that developed the Transfer Pricing for Developing Countries, a member of UN and OECD Tax Committee and a prominent tax resource person to many tax authorities. He also speaks at local and international tax workshops, seminars and conferences.

At the sub-regional level is Mr Babatunde Oladapo, who was appointed Executive Secretary, WATAF, in June 2016 for a fouryear term. Oladapo is credited with pioneering knowledge sharing missions between and members of the sub-regional body. One of these involves the mission, which has seen the Liberian Revenue Authority and FIRS sharing knowledge on taxpayer services and e-payment solutions. He also brokered technical assistance programme on Transfer Pricing audit between FIRS, the Tax Inspectors without Borders (TIWB) and the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), which was able to raise Transfer Pricing audit assessments of over $7 Million to a multinational enterprise as a result of the intervention.

The national stage has a decent presence of men and women recruited from the FIRS as Chairmen of State Internal Revenue Services (SIRSs). Among these is Alhaji Sani Abdulqadir Dambo, Chairman, Kano State Internal Revenue Service. In 2016, under his leadership, the state added 900,000 new

taxpayers to its tax roll. This remains the highest number of fresh taxpayers ever contributed by a single state to the taxpayer population within three years over the last 10 years.

Dambo has also overseen an increase in Kano State Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from N13.6billion to N42.4billion, an increase of about 212%. In the same league are Alhaji Jibril Yusuf Kabibu, Alhaji Jibrin Hussaini Jibo, and Mr. Terzungwe Atser, who are respectively Chairmen of the State Internal Revenue Service of Niger, Bauchi and Benue.

Before these, there had been others. They include Mr Pukat Shehu Barde, Executive Chairman, Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (2005-2007); Alhaji Muazu Mohammed, former Executive Chairman, Niger State Internal Revenue Service; and Mrs Mimi Adzape Orubibi, former Chairman, Benue State Internal Revenue Service and the first female state tax chief in Nigeria. She famously oversaw the rise in the IGR of the state from N7.6 billion (2015) to N12.4 billion (2017).

In Kaduna State, two FIRS directors, Messrs Ango Liman and Thomas Isyaku are currently providing technical support for the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service Chairman, Alhaji Muhtar Ahmed, as Executive Director Standards and Compliance and Executive Director, Operations respectively.

Through their support, the state IGR rose from about N12 billion in 2015 to over N23 billion in 2016 and over N26 billion in 2017.

It is being hoped that the state’s collection figure will hit the N30 billion by the end of this year.

The poster boy of the state-FIRS cooperation is Fowler, whose time as Chairman, Lagos State Inland Revenue Service (LIRS), was remarkably successful. In 2010, the FIRS, then under the leadership of Mrs Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, requested to learn from the LIRS in key areas such as enforcement, taxpayer education, taxpayers’ registration and customer service. To this end, it sent a team led by a Coordinating Director, Mrs Teju Somorin, to study the processes at LIRS in those key areas for about three days.

Eight years after the visit, Fowler, the former LIRS Chairman is FIRS boss. His former colleague from Edo State Board of Internal Revenue, Chief Oseni Elamah, is Secretary, Joint Tax Board (JTB). Under Elamah, Edo State modernised its operations, expanded the tax roll and reformed its tax collection processes.

But the story of State Internal Revenue Service men joining the FIRS, however, goes a longer way back in time. Alhaji Kabir M. Mashi, Fowler’s immediate predecessor, was Chairman, Katsina State Internal Revenue Service, before joining the FIRS as a Directorate cadre staff and risinwg to the position of Chairman. Chief David Olorunleke, probably the longest serving FIRS Chairman, was Chairman, Kwara State Board of Internal Revenue before creation of Kogi State from Kwara. Another FIRS Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Zukogi joined the FIRS from Niger State Board of Internal Revenue.

Activists Praise Aregbesola’s Tenure Osun State Governor Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who hands over to his successor on Tuesday, has been described as a man who worked relentlessly to develop the state to a place of global reckoning.

In Lagos, during the week, hundreds of leaders of civil society orgaisations gathered to praise Aregbesola for what they described as “his sterling qualities and his tradition of excellence after eight years of ruling Osun State.� The event also marked the launching of a 58-page pictorial presentation of his achievements in the past eight years, tagged Revolution, Power and Politics in Osun.

The governor was represented by his son, Kabir Aregbesola.

The activists, who came from across the country, said they were proud that Aregbesola stood out as an icon in the period of his rule,

even in the face of tough economic challenges. “I’m proud of what he has done; he is a hero; he is a very honest person who live and work for the comfort of the people,� labour leader, Mr. Femi Aborisade said at the gathering in Lagos. He said he had known Aregbesola since his days at the Ibadan Polytechnic, adding that he was one of the most remarkable pillars of the students’ movement.

Speaking at the gathering, National Democratic Coalition, (NADECO) chieftain, Col. Tony Nyiam said Aregbesola cannot be compared with the average Nigerian politician.

He said “In the face of the storm mounted by the opposition, he stood out. He devised a working formulae that addressed the peculiar problem of wages. He is a man of courage. He is a man of honour.� He said he was proud

that in spite of the economic difficulties in the country, Aregbesola was able to lift Osun to a higher level.

A journalist, Adewale Adeoye said, “We are glad today that going into government for eight years, Comrade Aregbesola has come out victorious. He did not disgrace the left movement. He is not known for primitive accumulation wealth. Osun has her own challenges in the face of national economic meltdown. The entire country faced economic meltdown. What is most important is that he survived the tribulations. He overcame the storm. He worked out a formulae to deal with salaries and no other state has been able to do that successfully.�

The President of South West Professionals, (SOWPROF) who is based in the United States, (US) Chief Segun Ajibulu commended

Aregbesola for the massive construction of roads and the provision of infrastructure in the areas of education and agriculture.

He commended the rare sacrifice made by Aregbesola’s aides for the eight year period.

Ajibulu said “Political appointees and some categories of workers were paid half or full salaries. Some got 75 percent, some 50 percent.

But the workers knew it was the only realistic option. Instead of comparing with states that owe nine months without paying a kobo, irredeemable critics taunted the state saying workers were not being paid at all even in the face of overwhelming figures.

Adeoye said Nigerians should pay tribute to the people of Osun, workers, students, artisans, haves and have-nots for standing strong like the rock of Gibraltar in the defense of their fatherland.

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NOVEMBER 24, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

PERSPECTIVE

Reappraising Ugwuanyi’s Giant Strides in Enugu State Louis Amoke

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or a better appreciation of the good works of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration in Enugu State, it will be rational to assess its stewardship from the standpoint of the nation’s economic adversities when the governor took over the mantle of leadership in May 29, 2015.

When the governor assumed office, the country was in recession and confronted with various degrees of economic challenges as a result of drastic drop in the crude oil prices which adversely affected the state’s allocations from the federation account.

This recurring decimal of paucity of funds, coupled with the inherited debt profile and other huge wage bills to be serviced, no doubt posed a serious threat to the speedy actualization of the government’s wellthought-out vision for the people of the state as contained in its four-point agenda.

Enugu State was among the worst hit, considering that it is third from the bottom of the revenue allocation chart from the federation account and predominantly a civil service state with high expectations for socioeconomic expansion borne out of its enviable status as the historical capital of the Eastern region, old Anambra State, old Enugu State and capital of the present Enugu State.

The situation was really a source of worry to the extent that the immediate past governor of the state, Sullivan Chime, during the thanksgiving Mass to commemorate the end of his administration acknowledged that Enugu’s purse was growing leaner as federal allocations dwindled to an all-time low.

The nation’s economic challenges then was so bad that 27 states, Enugu State excluded, could not pay workers’ salaries, not to talk of embarking on capital projects. The era of sharing of excess crude oil funds which enabled past governments at the state and local government levels to execute sundry capital projects became a thing of the past as the governors resorted to bailout funds from the federal government to enable them to meet up the basic pressing needs of paying workers’ salaries and execution of projects, among others.

They were consequently tagged “bailout governors” and the burning question then was “is this the best time to be a governor?”

But Ugwuanyi in his wisdom, sheer dexterity and passion for wellbeing of the people as well as rapid development of the state, remained undaunted in his vision to build Enugu State of the founding fathers’ dreams - to deploy government services to create fair and equal opportunity for every willing citizen to make a living and create wealth, educate our children, and enjoy life in a peaceful and secure environment.

In actualizing the lofty dreams, the people’s governor, constituted a 15-man Enugu State Economic Advisory Committee headed by Obiora Ike, to advise his administration on the best policies that would engender sustainable economic growth to lead the state out of the nation’s economic crunch, through restructuring, re-engineering and reinvigoration of the state’s economy.

The innovative approach gave birth to the first ever Enugu State Investment Summit christened “Oganiru Enugu State”, which was successfully organized to showcase the economic potentials of the state and woo investors.

Recently, Enugu State was rated by the World Bank Group as the second most advanced state in Nigeria towards the frontier of global good practices with regards to Ease of Doing Business.

On workers’ salary which was a major puzzle for most states, the story is quite different in Enugu State as workers continue to receive their pay on the 23rd of every month, even when it falls on a Saturday or Sunday.

The state government last year paid the 13th month salary to its workers as Christmas bonus and also pays the pensioners on or before the end of the month.

Through an impressive increase in the state’s IGR, as a result of far reaching reforms introduced in the sector by the governor, this years’ June and July salaries were paid without the receipt of the federal allocations.

At the peak of all these challenges, execu-

Ugwuanyi

Numerous development projects have also been executed in the urban areas, such as the Holy Trinity Street and Bishop Michael Eneje Street, Independence Layout, Enugu; Mount Crescent, GRA, Enugu; Orofia Street, off Nza Street, Independence Layout, Enugu; Dental School – Tipper Garage road… tion of capital development projects were going on speedily across the three senatorial districts, coupled with state government’s swift interventions on failed sections of federal roads in the state.

Consequently, Ugwuanyi who was recently named the “2018 Sun Governor of the Year” for good governance; rapid rural development; traders and youth empowerments; nurturing of peace and harmony among the political class and critical support for security agencies, among others, has indeed kept faith with his campaign promises to the people of Enugu State.

At presently, the state government has so far spent close to N50 billion on road construction and rehabilitation across the state, covering about 450 kilometres.

Apart from road projects, the Ugwuanyi administration has also taken bold steps in other spheres of development which have endeared him to the people of the state and beyond and equally earned him a gale of endorsements for his re-election by virtually all strata of groups in the state, including the religious and traditional institutions.

The areas include the traders empowerment scheme which has so far assisted 2400 genuine traders with the sum of N50,000 each to grow their various businesses; construction and renovation of over 589 primary and secondary school blocks in the state as well as procurement of learning tools and employment of over 4000 teachers; empowerment of 750 youths under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) programme.

Others include, provision of 100 units one bedroom apartment for 100 lucky civil servants under grade level 1 to 10; rehabilitation of facilities at Ajali and Oji River Water Treatment Schemes which has consequentially improved the supply of water to Enugu

metropolis and its environs; construction and renovation of district hospitals and health centres in the state, especially in the rural areas under the primary healthcare programme, such as the Poly Clinic, Asata, Enugu and Udi District Hospital; construction of 14 new court buildings and open registries in the judicial divisions and magisterial districts across the state, which the state’s Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Ngozi Emehelu, described as “unprecedented infrastructural development that has not been witnessed in the entire South East” and “the largest single intervention in infrastructural development in the Judiciary of Enugu State for over 20 years”; and other remarkable achievements too numerous to mention.

On rural development and good governance, Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration in line with its vision to create direct positive impacts on the lives of the masses, the long forgotten and neglected, channeled the bulk of its development projects to the rural areas - a clear and systematic departure from the past when most major achievements were concentrated in the urban areas.

This vision which is novel in the state’s history was also in keeping with the governor’s inaugural address to “pay a special attention to rural development,” to open up the rural areas, create more urban centres, develop fresh economic opportunities and reduce pressure on Enugu metropolis for socio-economic expansion.

Three months into his administration, Ugwuanyi spearheaded the massive development of urban and rural roads across the three senatorial districts of the state: in Emene, Abakpa-Nike, 9th Mile Corner and Nsukka – a University town founded over half a century ago and the second largest town in the state, among other satellite towns.

Shortly after, his administration simultaneously executed 35 grassroots development projects across the 17 Local Government Areas of Enugu State, which ensured that every council benefited at least one project from the programme.

Today, we have the N10 million “one community, one project” scheme, which has also recorded a huge success in expanding development to the frontiers of the rural areas – an initiative that has made it possible for communities to decide their priority projects, ensuring that areas that never experienced any government presence benefited, accordingly.

All these were going on as completion of works on projects started by the previous administration were given adequate attention, such as the state-of-the-art Enugu State Diagnostic Centre, (now completed) the first of its kind in the South East geo-political zone, established to create hospital chains to make Enugu the preferred destination

for receiving high quality and affordable healthcare delivery in the country.

Besides the foregoing, the following road projects were equally among the projects successfully delivered to standard by Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration with special positive impact on the lives of the people, especially the lowly and long neglected.

The two 9th Mile Bypasses in Udi Local Government Area, which have relieved travelers the stress of traffic gridlock in the area, especially during festivities. The AgbaniAmurri road in Nkanu West LGA, newly constructed for a community that has never experienced any form of development on its land in the past 100 years. The OgonogoejiNdiagu-Akpugo road (from Atavu bailey bridge to Afor Onovo), in the same council, which has a historic and symbolic attraction as the first state government road project in the entire Akpugo zone since the creation of Enugu State.

Another project that has a direct impact on the lives of the lowly and neglected is the Ngenevu road, which was constructed with the provision of two 500-KVA transformers by the governor for the suburb of Enugu that had not witnessed any form of government presence. Other high density and suburbs such as the Iva Valley, the Ugbodogwu, the Ogwuagor, Abakpa Nike, Emene, etc, have equally benefited.

The story is the same in Eha-Amufu, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area - another long neglected agrarian community that is currently witnessing massive reconstruction of the Nkalagu-Eha Amufu road, after over 35 years of neglect.

Others include, the Nike Lake road and Abakpa Nike road in Enugu East Local Government Area, which were hitherto in deplorable conditions. The Opi-Nsukka Dual Carriageway in Nsukka Local Government Area, delivered with the state-of-the-art facilities befitting a University town and the second largest city in the state. The Ogbaku road in Awgu L.G.A (one of the 35 simultaneous development projects) that was constructed on a difficult terrain that is both hilly and undulating.

The New Market-Milliken Hill-Ngwo- 9th Mile road, an ancient, historic and undulating road, modernized with streetlights and other safety measures after decades of neglect to showcase its potentials as a tourist attraction and the state’s natural roller coaster, which now serves as an alternative gateway into the city of Enugu, from Onitsha-Enugu expressway. The Ebonyi River Bridge in Isi Uzo Local Government Area, which connects so many adjoining communities to Ikem, the headquarters of the Council, and a host of others.

Numerous development projects have also been executed in the urban areas, such as the Holy Trinity Street and Bishop Michael Eneje Street, Independence Layout, Enugu; Mount Crescent, GRA, Enugu; Orofia Street, off Nza Street, Independence Layout, Enugu; Dental School – Tipper Garage road, Trans Ekulu, Enugu; Loma Linda- Timber Shed road, Maryland, Enugu; Nwafia Street, Independence Layout, Enugu; Mbanefo Street, New Haven, Enugu.

Others include, the Secretariat Road, G.R.A, Enugu; Court Avenue by new State Secretariat, Enugu; Ibuza Street at Independence Layout, Enugu; Isi Uzo Street at Independence Layout, Enugu; Owerri Road and Poly Clinic Road, Asata, Enugu; Renovation of the Enugu State House of Assembly Complex and rehabilitation and re-asphalting of the popular Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, and a host of others. A lot of new projects scattered in the state are ongoing and more contracts are been awarded to improve the people’s standard of living.

Not too long ago, Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration ensured that Enugu State had additional five new state-of-the-art fire service stations across the three senatorial, districts after 56 years three stations were built in the state, then Eastern Region.

The government has consistently been maintaining roads built by past administrations and has equally engaged 1000 youths under the Enugu Clean Team Project to clean up the state to enhance and sustain its rating as one of the healthier and cleanest cities in the country, among other landmark achievements. Enugu State is truly in the hands of God.

t

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 24, 2018

FASHION FILE

By Azuka Ogujiuba azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

Rick Dusi Presents Its Spring Summer 2o19 Adcampaign

‘The Luxe Man’

NOVEMBER 24, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER EW E WSPAP PE ER

43

FASHION FILE

‘The Luxe Man’

T

he Luxe Man is a retro minimalistic yet elegant collection by Designer Eromosele Patrick Eidusi, the brand’s Creative Director. Inspired from the book “The Luxe” first book in the New York Times best selling series by Anna Godberson.

In a world of luxury and deception, where appearances matter above everything and breaking the social code means running the risk of being ostracized forever birthed THE luxe Man. According to The designer, the collection was hatched when the designer stumbled upon the book “The Luxe “where 10 Men lead dangerously scandalous lives in a retro yet very timeless classic piece.

The collection redefines menswear classic with an upsurge in aesthetics, beautiful executed retro fashion with the use of indigenous fabric mix with modern sartorial classics with hopes to creatively explore the marriage between retro influence

and contemporary styles for the modern M an.

Fabrication Soft to seemingly hard fabrication was used for the collection.

Cotton, Neophrene, Velvets, wool and damask are the fabrics that empower the collection and helps us tell our story Credits Creative Direction/ Styling: @ tokyojamess Photography: @michaeloliverlove Makeup: @summerjardim Models Terry Frimpong: @ terry_tyler_ for @20modelmanagement Caleb Neilson: @Caleb_cjn for @ bossmodelsa.

Studio: @herocreativemanagement Capetown, South Africa.

Collaborations Slides made in Collaboration with MALIKO STUDIOS Glasses made in collaboration with DAPMOD

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž Í°Í˛Ëœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

EXPRESSION

MEDIAGAFFES

Writers’ Freudian Slips

EBERE WABARA

Y

OU are welcome to this edition: “His followers‌have not relented in demanding for his unconditional release.â€? (SUNDAY Sun Editorial, November 11) Delete ‘for’ because of its redundancy here. “Presidents of Guinea, Togo‌ are expected at (on) the occasion.â€? (National News, November 14) “Renowned Nigerian industrialist, business mogul and publisher of the defunct Post Express Newspapers (The Post Express Newspapers), Chief Sonny Iwedike Odogwu, has passed on.â€? (DAILY Sun Editorial, November 14) “Trump lashes (lashes out at) Macron as Europe moves on defense (defence) without USâ€? (International News, November 14) “Others just ridiculed me outrightly.â€? A protester at the American embassy: Others just ridiculed me outright. “NCP raises alarm over alleged harrasments of market womenâ€? Across the nation: harassment. Also note that ‘harassment’ is uncountable, unlike ‘embarrassment’. And this: raise the alarm â€œâ€Śbut the incidence rather than subdue you, (sic) should instead spur you to greater hights (heights).â€? The human angle: incident (not incidence). ‘Instead’ has no function here. “Gather every members of your family.â€?

Either every member of your family or all members‌.

My dear reader, please note that ‘banter’ is uncountable. “...the chilling story of Calabar’s rival gang members who not only slaughter themselves (one another) but.‌â€? “Eagles confront Malawians under scorching sunâ€? This way: in (not under) the scorching sun. ‘â€?In times past, the media might even have queried the double standards.â€? Professional-

BY

ism: double standard. “We maintain that like every other institutions established by law....â€? Already addressed “Customs intensify air border patrolâ€? No news: Customs (Nigerian Customs Service) intensifies... “PHCN has (had) earlier indicated that progress made towards stabilizing power supply has been reversed.â€? “Idris who was on a one-day working visit to Kano to round up (off) his familiarization tour of police formations in the country.‌â€? I can understand the mix-up because of IGP’s involvement! â€œâ€Śthat effort at sensitizing Nigerians on (to) the essence of the Vision 20-2020 is well in an advanced stage.â€? What is the definition of the clichĂŠ ‘advanced stage’? Any form of public communication—gestural, written or verbal—that is subject to individualistic interpretations is not efficient and effective. “NPA beefs-up (beefs up) security at port‌â€? “ACF urges Boko Haram to sheath swordsâ€?

Truth is a burden: sheathe swords. “New car owners stranded over plate numbers� Aso Chronicle: number plates “New Year bomb victim dissatisfied over (with) treatment abroad� “UNAD staff arrested over (for) missing N100m� “Heartland, Enyimba reignites rivalry�

Midweek Sports: why the discord? “Muslims in all continents of the world would today celebrate Id el Mauloud.â€? My comment: on all continents. â€œâ€Śat (in) the nick of time to provide him a white ram that was slaughtered as replacement (a replacement) of (for) his son, Ismael (Ismail/Ishmael)â€? “It is hoped that those engaging in acts inimical of (to) the nation’s corporate progress‌.â€? “We seize today’s occasion of‌.â€? For Americanism and all its informalities, this is

acceptable. But, in formal (standard) British entry—which I strongly advocate—you take or use an occasion/opportunity. ‘Seize’ has an inherent, elemental force (connotatively and denotatively), imperativeness of sociolinguistics, as Robert Obioha of Sun Editorial Board will insist, notwithstanding. “Entrepreneurs team-up (team up) with Rivers on investmentâ€? “...the intrigues has (have) just begun.â€? “Each passing day I pray that the lord will wipe my tears, heal the wound and the pains that your sudden departure have (has) left in my heart.â€? “I still thank God because I believe that you are resting peacefully in His bossom (bosom).â€? And this, by the way: in God’s bosom, peace is integral and guaranteed. My condolences, the avoidable slips notwithstanding “We are however rest assured that you are been (being) taken care of and that one day, we will meet to part no more.â€? â€œâ€Śmany Nigerians have expressed mixed reactions over (to) this development.â€? “The herbalist allegedly demanded for his wife’s eyeball‌.â€? Delete ‘for’ in pursuit of lexical excellence. â€œâ€Śwho is currently representing Epe Federal Constituency in the National Assembly‌.â€?

Who can tell me what ‘currently’ is doing here? “OGBC begins 24hours (sic) broadcast� Get it right: 24 hours’ broadcast/24-hour broadcast “Nigerian women are not mediocre� Our women are not mediocrities or mediocrists.

Put differently, Nigerian women are not mediocre people (adjectival parlance). “Nigeria’s First Lady and wife of the president‌.â€? Obviously, ‘Nigeria’s First Lady’ or ‘the president’s wife’ is enough—not both at the same time! (This observation was contributed by Lucky Ihanza) “Several (Many, preferably) innocent Nigeri-

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

ans have been killed by uniform (uniformed) men at checkpoints for failure to give bribe (bribes).â€? “He got the woman’s phone number and texted (messaged) her N500 phone (recharge) credit.â€? â€œâ€Śuntil such a time his adversary is able to proof (prove) to the court that he is not the rightful king.â€? “Police contributes (contribute) to sexual violence in Nigeria, says Olufemiâ€? “I doff my hat for the resilience of those who staked their necks to confront the excesses of the military.â€? Dogma at the barricades: I doff my hat to (not for) newspaper contributors, the occasional Freudian slips notwithstanding. You can also take off your hat‌. â€œâ€Śthe seeming connivance of the judiciary with those intent in (on/upon) protecting the criminals in our midst.â€? “The suspects are walking free in the society, enjoying their loots and attracting more political patronages.â€? ‘Loot’ is uncountable. â€œâ€Śin the guise of delivering same (the same) as bribe to the Commission’s officers to ‘kill’ such cases under investigation.â€? ‘Same’, in formal—and even most informal—contexts, cannot stand alone. “The highest value of university education is not just about imparting knowledge on (to) individuals‌.â€? “Nigeria loses N533bn to sugar importationâ€?

A rewrite: Nigeria spends N533b on sugar import â€œâ€Śwhich also congratulated the Sierra-Leonean (sic) people for (on/upon) the peaceful conduct of their election and pledged support for their democratic process.â€? “The United Nations, which had borne much of the burden of restoring peace in (to) the country‌.â€?

Mike Adenuga’s 95 Allen Avenue Ebere Wabara

T

he emotional significance of the Romanesque architectural masterpiece at 95AllenAvenue, Ikeja, Lagos, is that it was the first Lagos accommodation of billionaire businessman, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jnr., GCON. It also had the first branch of Equitorial Trust Bank (ETB).

Today, it houses the latest Glo World emporium with all imaginable exquisiteness. The one-stop multifarious solution provider is an expansive shop to behold. It was colourfully inaugurated at the weekend amid unprecedented pomp and unparalleled elitist panache. If any telephonic challenge is not resolved here, there may not be any other resolution nationwide.

From time to time, all GSM companies operating in the country make self-appraisals and claims about their quality of service and patronage, among other miscellaneous issues largely unsubstantiated—until this investigative intervention.

Let us begin with the only indigenous economic plenipotentiary. Our trajectory will also forensically extend to other GSM outfits. In terms of quality superiority, speed incomparability and clientele affordability, Globacom’s pioneering 4G LTE Network nationwide is not just industry compass for data navigation, but novel velocity of life unsurprisingly from the speediest grandmasters of data.

It did not start today because the chairman of the organization, Dr. Adenuga Jr., is inimitably passionate about quintessence in all spheres of human existentialism. Of course, the credit for this latest upgrade—and, indeed the glory of everything else pertaining to this ultimate brand—goes to this man of colossus fondly called “The Bull�, who, despite his transnational entrepreneurship and borderless opulence, is humble and caring to a fault!

Globacom was the first network to launch a nationwide 4G-LTE coverage in Nigeria. The market-edge facility is available in 33 states of the country. LTE is a revolutionary Fourth Generation Mobile Technology, which enhances data transfer rates, delivering unmatched mobile broadband experience and highest data speeds and reliability.

The successful launch of the Glo 4G LTE, the country’s first nationwide network implementation of the technology, makes it possible for millions of Nigerians to enjoy instant, efficient broadband internet at speeds far superior to the 3G network, thus enabling them to download ultra high definition videos in seconds.

With the advanced network, individuals who consume huge volumes of data, government agencies and corporate organizations, including banks, oil and gas companies, academic and health institutions, which h require seamless data transfer for their operations now benefit immensely from Globacom’s data intensive applications.

Recently, Globacom was ranked the 4th most admired African brand. In the 2017/2018 Most Admired Brands survey conducted by Brand Africa and published inAfrican Businessmagazine, Globacom was ranked 4th in the Top 10 Most AdmiredAfricanBrands(unprompted).Inthesame vein, the company was also rated 5th in the Top 25 Most Admired African Brands (prompted). T57 The report noted “an incredible consistency among the companies that featured in the survey with 60% of the top brands being present in both the unprompted and prompted surveys�. The brands include Globacom, Dangote, Shoprite, Safaricom and Tusker of Kenya and Ethiopia’s Anbessa.

Brand Africa founder and Chairman, Thebe Ikalafeng, said that the study was conducted by Brand Africa partners, GeoPoll , leading research firm in emerging markets, with analyses and insights by Kantar TNS, the world’s largest insight information research firm, and Brand Leadership, Africa’s premier branding advisory firm.

He explained that Brand Africa 100 is a valuation and ranking of the Best Brands in Africa. “The valuation is a multi-tier royalty relief methodology that blends a brand’s financial performance and consumer admiration to create a unique index and ranking. One of the primary drivers of Africa’s growth lies in stimulating and growing thriving African and global businesses and brands inAfrica.

Consumers are the ultimate arbiters of that success.

Thus the Brand Africa 100 signals which brands are getting it right on the continent�, he explained.

OtherAfrican brands that made the Top 25 include

Adenuga Jumia and UBAof Nigeria, MTN, DStv, Tiger Brands andAmarula of SouthAfrica, Econet and Kwese of Zimbabwe, Ankara Clothing of Ghana, Tusker of Kenya,Africell of The Gambia and Ecobank of Togo.

Latest telecom industry statistics released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) show that Globacom amassed 214,646 new subscribers in the month of July 2018, taking its customer base to over 40.3 million.

The operator which had 40,108,508 subscribers in June ended July with 40,323,154, showing an addition of 214,646 new subscribers. This was the biggest gain by any operator in July asAirtel, which came second, added 149,880 new customers, growing from 39,898,448 in June to 40,048,328 in July.

On the other hand, MTN and 9mobile lost subscribers within the period. While MTN lost 999,891 subscribers, 9mobile shed 246,221 customers.

The NCC report also showed that Globacom has since this year added a total of 2,153,374 new subscribers. As at the end of December, 2017, the company had a subscriber base of 38,169,780, whereas the figure increased to 40,323,154 in July this year.

Also according to the NCC statistics, Globacom principally accounted for the growth in the number of internet users on mobile devices during the review period. Total number of data users in the country

rose by 866,656, from 102.81 million in June to103.67 million in July.

Globacom led the gainers’ chart with 574,821 new internet users, with its data subscription rising from 26.57 million in June to 27.15 million in July. This is 66% of the total 866,656 new internet users in the industry.

Airtel’s figure rose by 375,724 from 26.71 internet users in June to 27.09 million in July. MTN also gained 134,197 new data users in July as the figure recorded was 39.07 million as against 38.94 million in June.

However, 9mobile lost 218,086 internet users in July, as its subscription base fell to 10.37 million as against June when it recorded 10.59 million.

Globacom’s increasing subscriber base is said to be a result of the several attractive and user-friendly packages which offer a lot of appeal to prepaid and postpaid phone users, thus making its services the most accessible and most affordable. For instance, the company which is marking its 15 years of operations in Nigeria, recently launched Glo Yakata which offers up to 2,200% bonus on every N100 recharge and above and Oga SIM which offers 125% bonus on every data subscription.

It is on the regulator’s records that Globacom had, right from inception, been offering tremendous value-added services to telecom subscribers.

Still on the most critical element of telephony in Nigeria: who would have ever believed, before the glorious advent of Globacom, that per second billing was feasible from the outset, especially after competition had trenchantly made it look impossible—in fact, unthinkable, economically unrealistic andunsustainable?Nigerianswillforeverremember Dr. Adenuga Jnr. amid overflowing gratitude for his inestimable, bullish and catalytic reversal in the telephonic rip-off. Dr. Adenuga’s optimal concern wasnotreturnoninvestment,buttheempowerment of our people. That, for me, is the summit essence of life: touching lives.

Globacom is indeed the fallout of its proprietor’s overall domestication of quintessence and resolute subscription to success paradigms in everything no matter the challenges. His sterling belief in possibilities and illimitable opportunities forecloses the mirage of impossibilities.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t NOVEMBER 24, 2018

45

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Timaya

Living His Dreams LUCHY DONALDS I’m Hated by People I Refused to Let in Between My Legs pg. 48

LIZ ANJORIN Lizzy Anjorin Makes History with ‘Owo Naira Bet’ pg. 50

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t NOVEMBER 24, 2018

SHOWBIZFLAIR TIMAYA

Living His Dreams Ferdinand Ekechukwu spotlights Enitimi Alfred Odon better known as Timaya, who not long ago, got the social media talking about his abode in Lekki, Lagos, reported to be the biggest and most expensive celebrity mansion in Nigeria

M

agnificent, mind blowing, and to some others, magical.

These were some of the superlatives in which various reports of the multi-million naira building acquired by music superstar Timaya were captured.

The palatial building which has been in the news since it was completed and slightly unveiled in March this year, has put the Niger Delta artiste on the spotlight far more than his music career. It is dream come true for the “plantain boy.”

The singer reportedly owns two other mansions in Port-Harcourt.

He acquired the first one in December 2011 and the second one three years later.

Timaya was really private about his wealth and so when he decided to share photos of his castle, many were taken aback.

A recent interview with popular on air personality, Daddy Freeze of Cool FM brought back images of this massive abode and for the umpteenth time, puts the artiste in focus.

The interview was posted first on the OAP’s social media handle and later on youtube. In the video, the Dem Mama Record boss, Timaya spoke about some other issues including his family, growing up in Port Harcourt, career and his latest acquisition but was unspecific about the amount spent in erecting the edifice.

Timaya’s solo career began in 2005 with the release of ‘Dem Mama’, which also appeared on his debut album, True Story, released the following year. His second album. Gift and Grace, was released in 2008.

Timaya gained further visibility and international prominence through his third studio album De Rebirth released in partnership with Black Body Entertainment and its lead single, Plantain Boy, was commercially successful. He collaborated with ‘Dem Mama Soldiers’ on the album LLNP (Long Life N Prosperity). In 2012, Timaya released Upgrade, which spawned hits like Bum Bum, Sexy Ladies, and Malonogede.

To date, his work has earned him four Headies Awards, and one Nigeria Music Award. Timaya was born on 15 August 1980 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He grew up as part of a large family; the youngest of 15 children in Agip Estate, Port Harcourt. His mother was a trader with whom the artiste toiled, selling plantain, hence the nickname ‘plantain boy.’

For his early education, Timaya attended Assemblies of God Nursery and Primary School.

His secondary school education was at Nkpolu Oroworukwo in

Timaya

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t NOVEMBER 24, 2018

SHOWBIZFLAIR Living His Dreams

Timaya House

Dem Mama was an account of the 1999 destruction of Odi, a river side community in Niger Delta. Soldiers were hunting down militants that alleged killed eight policemen.

The village was burnt and numerous people killed. I bravely tackled the issue years later and won instant street credibility for my boldness Port Harcourt. He would often break house rules to attend late night music events. Before Timaya could graduate from school, his mother arranged for him to travel with his older brother and older sister to Lagos.

Timaya later returned to Port Harcourt to study Banking and Finance. However, he performed poorly in examinations and dropped out after first semester.

He then moved back to Lagos to join Eedris Abdulkareem’s hiphop group as a backup vocalist.

After three years working for Eedris, Timaya departed from the group to focus on his solo career.

He began to record collaborations with fellow up-and-coming artistes and made his first cameo appearance in an unreleased music video by UDX, a Lagos based rap group.

He subsequently met producer K-Solo who produced his first major hit record Dem Mama after hearing him perform the cappella version. Describing the song in an interview posted on August 2013, Timaya said: “Dem Mama was an account of the 1999 destruction of Odi, a river side community in Niger Delta. Soldiers were hunting down militants that alleged killed eight policemen.

The village was burnt and numerous people killed. I bravely tackled the issue years later and won instant street credibility for my boldness.”

After the success of Dem Mama, Timaya decided to continue with K-Solo. He recorded seven more songs for his first album, True Story, which was eventually released in 2007. Later that year,

Timaya began work on his second album with producers Phyno, Jegz, Spankie, Akeem D Beat, and Terry G. In 2008, the album titled Gift and Grace was released into stores nationwide.

Timaya won two awards - Album of the Year at Nigeria Music Awards and Best Reggae/Dancehall album at the Headies Awards same year.

He also received two awards “Best Reggae/Dancehall album” for Gift and Grace and “Best Collaboration” for his feature on J Martins’ “Good or Bad (O Wey)” at the 2009 edition of The Headies.

Two years later, Timaya released his third album, De Rebirth and its success-themed lead single “Plantain Boy”. Timaya collaborated with guest artistes, including 2face Idibia, TJ 2Solo, Allenian, Konga, Lanre, M.I, TJ, and Wrecoba.

In 2010, he appeared on the song Kokoroko by late female gospel artiste Kefee, which went on to win in the “Best Collaboration” category at the 2010 Headies Awards.

In November 2011, Timaya released LLNP (Long Life And Prosperity), a collaborative album with Dem Mama Soldiers. The album’s second track “Dem No Like Me” featured a guest appearance by legendary reggae singer, late Ras Kimono.

On 25 June 2012, Timaya released a 14 track album titled Upgrade.

The album featured collaborations with Attitude, Terry G and Vector.

The singer is a father of three children; two girls - Emma and Grace - and a baby boy, from two different women, one of which is his ex-lover Barbara.

Timaya

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t NOVEMBER 24, 2018

48

SHOWBIZFLAIR LUCHY DONALDS

I’m Hated by People I Refused to Let in Between My Legs Pretty and stylish, Luchy Donalds is one of the new faces of Nollywood.

She has a touch of excellence and the potential of becoming one of the most sought-after talents in the industry. Luchy tells Tosin Clegg about the ugliness of sexual harassment in Nollywood, says her biggest asset is her beautiful face, ass, and boobs Luchy Donalds is a fast-rising actress ell, honestly, I will say it’s grace because all my life I have never been to an audition. I happen to have a Facebook friend, who is an executive producer, we got chatting without me knowing he’s a producer until when he asked if I was interested in acting and I said yes.

He sent me a script and told me I will be playing sub-lead for him and, like a dream, it came to reality.

Honestly, the level of sexual harassment in the industry is way beyond my expectation, and I doubt if there’s any means to curb it. But for me, I am very simple, I love to stay indoors because that’s how I grew up, I love watching movies and sleeping everyday life is just normal

W

Taking on roles I won’t say any role is convenient because I’m good with whatever role that comes before me except anything that has to do with nudity. But I have a new movie I took part in, ‘My Husband’s Wife’, which is yet to be released.

The industry has refused to grow And that’s growing higher as it’s meant to. So many producers are no longer willing to put in enough money to make good movies, because piracy is just too much.

I also feel African Magic channels are affecting movies because most people no longer buy CDs, they wait till when a particular movie they have been anticipating to watch is being aired on African Magic.

I feel if producers bring out good money and make quality movies, if piracy can be flushed out and possibly YouTube movies made to be viewed by only people outside Nigeria, then the industry will have more value.

producing and directing in future. Well, I don’t even know how it would happen but all I can say is that it’s going to be God’s doing.

A few things stand me out My biggest asset is obviously my ass, then my boobs that are still standing and my tiny waist, not forgetting the beautiful face I am blessed with. For my role models, there are many of them and I can’t even begin to mention them all.

What makes me different I’m versatile, I add extra spice; I say crazy and funny things that are not in the script. For me, challenge is being hated by people I refused to let in between my legs, and success is unexplainable because I give it all to God. I grew up in Owerri I wasn’t allowed to mingle with friends because my dad is strict. So, I was not allowed out easily, and today I don’t have regrets because it made me learn how to stay on my own. I am from the family of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Nkwocha of Emii in Owerri North Local Government Area, Imo State.

I’m the first daughter in a family of two girls and a boy. I attended nursery and primary school in Mount Carmel Premier Secondary School. I spent a year at Madonna University but graduated from Tansian University. I’m a Christian who believes so much in God. Honestly, I have always dreamt of being an actress And that’s right from childhood to the

Dealing with fame Fame is beautiful, accompanied with great feeling. Well, as for men, I would say most of them feel actresses are crayfish and can be bought with money, which gets me highly pissed. My fans are my all, I love them so much. Most times the best way to handle annoying comments on social media is simply to ignore them but if not, then give the person a dose of his/her medicine because they fail to realise we are equally humans.

Donald

extent that I used to see myself acting with big stars in my dreams, no jokes, that’s true. I’m so happy it came to pass, I love my job but I would have and still want to do business.

I have acted in a couple of movies That’s from my first films, The Investigator, Eno my Calabar Love, Osinachi My Wife, The Missing Princess, Bianca My Wife etc. Definitely, I will go into

Excesses in the industry Honestly, the level of sexual harassment in the industry is way beyond my expectation, and I doubt if there’s any means to curb it. But for me, I am very simple, I love to stay indoors because that’s how I grew up, I love watching movies and sleeping. My everyday life is just normal.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t NOVEMBER 24, 2018

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Tosin Clegg 07062816737 e-mail: tosinclegg@hotmail.com

MY STORY

Gists NANCY ISIME, BISOLA AIYEOLA, RICO SWAVEY, OTHERS HIT MULTICHOICE PARTY Leading video entertainment company, MultiChoice Nigeria recently unveiled a special campaign offer to treat customers on its DStv and GOtv platforms to a memorable festive season.

The campaign will see family and friends get together to celebrate the upcoming festive season with specially curated content on DStv and GOtv while also enjoying discounts on the Explora and HD decoders.

According to Chief Customer Officer, MultiChoice Nigeria, Martin Mabutho, “The festive season is a great time for family and friends to come together, and we are making those moments extra special with world class content on our platforms.” He said the upcoming festive season would be marked by exciting TV content that the whole family can enjoy.

“Our customers will enjoy their yearly festive traditions even more as they create new memories with a line-up of amazing content such as our special Nigerian Festivals pop-up channel which features some of the biggest music concerts and shows on the continent, including The Experience, Calabar Carnival, Akwa Ibom Christmas Concert and One Lagos Fiesta. We also have the much-loved special kiddies’ channel, Animania which will be a perfect companion for DStv kids this season. Football lovers will still enjoy the matches of the best football leagues in the world; Premier League, UEFA Champions League, La Liga and Serie A LIVE and in glorious HD on SuperSport channels,” he said.

Other exciting content for customers to look forward to this festive season include: popular local content shows on Africa Magic such as Ajoche, Forbidden and My Siblings & I; international telenovelas on Telemundo and Star Life, as well as other general entertainment programming.

ZIEKE

I Draw Inspiration from Eminem, Sarkodie Enebeli Ezekiel, better known as Zieke, is an emerging rap power house whose kind of music speaks of his uncommon craft and excellence. With rap inspiration from Eminem and Sarkodie, he is one growing talent to look out for. He tells Tosin Clegg about his father’s disapproval of his tilt towards music and his love for rap music

WAP CONCLUDES RECORDING OF KNOCKOUT COMEDY MOVIE As 2018 draws to a close, Wale Adenuga Productions is already giving millions of families something exciting to look forward to next year, as it just concluded the shooting of its comedy movie masterpiece appropriately-titled ‘Knockout’; which would hit cinemas across Nigeria with “extreme laughter explosion” in early 2019.

The Producer of Knockout, Wale Adenuga Jnr., revealed that the bigbudget movie’s impressive cast is made up of different generations of comedy superstars, including Sola Sobowale (Toyin Tomato), Charles Okocha, Toyin Abraham, Chinwetalu Agu, Odunlade Adekola, Patience Ozokwor, Broda Shaggi, Ali Nuhu, Eniola Badmus, Papa Ajasco, Mama Ajasco, Pa James, Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Ajasco, Francis Odega, Afeez Oyetoro (Saka), Nnenna, Desmond Elliot, Funky Mallam, Kenny Blaq, Ngozi Nwosu, Gentle Jack, Remi Surutu, Victor

Osuagwu, Woli Arole, Yaw, Tayo Amokade (Ijebu), Klint Da Drunk, Segun Arinze, Amaechi Muonagor,

Ronke Oshodi Oke, Josh2Funny & Bello Kreb, Jide Kosoko, Princess, Tony Akposheri, MC Lively, Omo Ibadan, Kelechi Udegbe, Wale Adebayo, Greg Ojefua, Iya Niwe, Akpan & Oduma, Fyne Geh, Chief Olododo, and others; as well as some electrifying cameos by 9ice, Derenle Edun and Jaywon.

The talented cast and world-class crew, with their sophisticated equipment, spent six productive months on several beautiful locations across the country, and even now, the movie is going through a meticulous post-production process; but the producers assured audiences that they won’t have to wait much longer because Knockout will hit cinemas nationwide in early 2019.

According to the Executive Producer of Knockout, Mr. Wale Adenuga MFR, “Knockout is extremely funny.

You will laugh and laugh until you forget your name.”

BYNO TO HOST ‘LIVE AND WAVY’ FEATURING SOUND SULTAN, OTHERS This December, Byno would be hosting a Musical Concert tagged, ‘Live & Wavy’ with BYNO and Friends, scheduled to hold at the Indigo, Sheraton Hotel, Abuja. Byno, since inception of his career, has been a powerhouse of good music borne out of his originality, classical style of singing and electrifying performances which says more about his excellence.

Speaking on his event, Byno stated that “The idea is to propagate the concept of good/live music for listening/ viewing pleasure. I intend to have people come out and

have real value for their money and that amazing musicians still exists in Nigeria.

The concert will witness performances from some of Nigerian music industry’s finest including Byno, Ric Hassani, Sound Sultan, Isaac Gerald, Josh2funny, amongst others.

Byno and his team have put so much in place to expect a huge turn out and have a positive impact on their audience.

He also plans to have another one in February, next year.

W

hat kind of music do you do?

I do hip hop and afro pop. With the emergence of the shaku shaku legwork type of vibes, I kind of found my craft craving towards such musical genre to better spice up my works and serve music lovers the current trend of music.

Challenges so far?

I started rapping from Junior Secondary and from that time till I finished secondary school, I wasn’t really serious with it; I just did it for fun. But, after I finished secondary school, I met with a guy while I was freestyling, so we did freestyle together and exchanged numbers. When my parents discovered I was doing music they were mad at me. My dad threatened not to sponsor my education if I continued with music and at that point I had to stop, which was my first major challenge. My second major challenge was money-raising.

What’s the extra spice you put into your work?

I try as much as possible to do my best anytime I have a chance to freestyle or work on a song. I am different in the sense that I rap with the aim of passing a message to the audience or listeners and to also make it cool and general so anybody can like and listen to it. For instance, when I release a song I expect it to relate to everyone. I don’t want it to relate to a particular sect and that’s why I rap using English and Pidgin so everyone can understand and flow with me.

Who are your role models and mentors?

I respect Eminem so much, as his kind of rap is inspiring and motivating. He can be controversial sometimes, but I love his music. When it comes to Africa, it’s Sarkodie and his flows are dope.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t NOVEMBER 24, 2018

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SHOWBIZFLAIR

Lizzy Anjorin Makes History with ‘Owo Naira Bet’ Lizzy Anjorin’s latest movie, “Owo Naira Bet”, is touted to be the most expensive Yoruba movie production in history, writes Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Anjorin

E

lizabeth Ibukunoluwa Anjorin is a Yoruba movie actress. She is popularly called Lizzy Anjorin. Lizzy is known for Ise Onise (2009), Arewa Ejo (2009), and Owowunmi (2010). Since hitting limelight some eight years ago, Lizzy has made several movie appearances.

The model turned actor has also produced some of her own movies.

Her debut movie, Tolani Gbarada, was followed by Gold, a compendium of her life experiences; Iyawo Abuke, Kofo Tinubu, Kofo De First Lady, and her latest sensational movie, Owo Naira Bet. The City People Entertainments Awards Best Actress 2014, Lizzy, recently but interestingly released the movie ‘Owo Naira Bet’, more than a year after it was premiered in Lagos in a festival-like atmosphere which had the Ooni of Ife and theAlaafin of Oyo grace the occasion, including several dignitaries from all walks of life in attendance.

For whatever reason though, the movie premiere date then had clashed with the 50th birthday of one of the lead cast in the movie, Saidi Balogun.

Shortly after the movie was shot, the actress had branded a Hiace bus with the poster of the movie. She drove around in the bus, besides the massive publicity that trailed it on social media, television, and radio and in newspapers.

Then, she picked her first date for the premiere of the flick. When the first date couldn’t hold, she picked another date and the adverts continued, announcing the new date.

Among other stars that featured in the movie are Olaiya Ige, Niyi Johnson and Jumoke George. Written by the actress and entrepreneur, Owo Naira Bet talks about how people spend lavishly without making any investment for their future or for their children.

The flick, touted to be the most expensive movie production in the history of Yoruba movie production, gulped about N40 million from the purse of the producer.

However as expected, it triggered insinuations that popular football betting outfit Nairabet, sponsored the movie. But the Badagry, Lagos State born actress had in a chat insisted that her new production was not in any way connected with Nairabet. That she only got to know that there was a company like that when someone mentioned it to her while shooting and she did not collect money from them to produce the movie.

The stylish Nollywood star found another love in her new enterprise which is fashion. She believes that as a vibrant fellow like herself, one should not depend on one line of business and definitely not like acting as many stars are discovered each day. She was a student activist on the campus of the Olabisi Onabanjo University. She subsequently went to an acting college for four years where she met the late Idowu Ogungbe and Ahmed Alasari who were instrumental to her career growth.

Liz once shared very shocking details of her life over the years while thanking a lot of people for being there for her.

The actress started her real-life journey series on Instagram, narrating how she

grew up on the streets with her mother to struggling all through her youth and the final part which she wrote about where she thanked everyone who played a major role in her becoming a celebrity.

It is not unusual to see or hear practitioners in the creative sector attach unfounded claims to their work. Such claims in some cases appear to be publicity stunt. Lizzy once claimed she’s the best movie producer. “Tell me in history which movie beats my movies in terms of picture quality, location, settings directing, acting, attires, costumes and props etc....excluding hypocrites, I have paid my dues without getting many accolades but that will never stop me from producing best movies to promote this culture.”

Though perceived to be controversial and linked to a fictitious sugar daddy, the actress was reported to be undisturbed to be seen as such. Liz had also disclosed that the fear of being stranded should that happen, pushed her into creating other sources of income to survive. “I work very hard to earn my money. I go through a lot of stress every day but people just think that I just sleep and all these things come to me on a silver platter.

“The talk of having a sugar daddy is annoying because there is nothing like that.

The truth is that God is the only sugar daddy I have. Some people will just sit down and say I get support from some politicians but in Nigeria of today; nobody will constantly give you money except you work with your two hands. But some individuals will just sit somewhere and concoct all sorts of lies about me.”

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NOVEMBER 24, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INTERVIEW

BPE Dispels Rumour of BEDC, Discos Licence Renewal Says BEDC’s one of the best run

T

he Director General, Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Mr. Alex Okoh has declared that contrary to insinuations in some quarters, there is indeed nothing ongoing in terms of contract or license renewal for any of the Distribution companies (Discos), including BEDC Electricity Plc. Speaking during a Press briefing in Benin, Mr. Okoh appealed to civil society groups, residents and all stakeholders in the BEDC franchise areas to exercise restraint and allow the company perform its functions of electricity distribution without any hindrance, even as he described BEDC as one of the best managed discos.

“The government respects contracts and would not do anything to jeopardize the operations of companies that federal Government had willingly entered into agreements with, including the Discos, ” the DG said.

“We have followed the development in Benin Disco with keen interest and indeed the attention of the Bureau has been drawn to certain erroneous information over the purported renewal of the licenses issued to the Discos, including BEDC Electricity Plc for the purpose of retail distribution of electricity” the DG remarked.

While clarifying the difference between a performance agreement

review and what has been purported as a review of the operating licence of the disco, Mr. Okoh disclosed that the performance agreement stipulates the milestones that the core investors should achieve within a specified period, while the issue of licensing was a different matter and is being handled by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

He said in relation to the above, all discos sold were thus also required to acquire NERC license in addition to purchasing the privatized company and its assets, adding, “For BEDC, there is an existing 15years NERC licence broken into 10years plus 5year, with another 10years renewal option at the end of the 15years period i.e. licence of up to 25years”.

Federal Government he hinted, was pursuing a comprehensive power sector recovery programed that will address the challenges of the sector many of which are faced by, but not peculiar to the Benin franchise areas.

Government he equally added, has been working with its international partners to reposition the power sector and BEDC in particular has benefited from the services of international institutions like the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) aimed at getting the best electricity services to the people.

Bobby Michaels Urges Support for Hope Uzodinma Chinedu Ibeabuchi

In her update across the franchise states, Managing Director/CEO, BEDC Plc, Mrs. Funke Osibodu, disclosed that 27 applications were received for the Meter Asset Provider (MAP), adding that after screening, 7 were currently going through the financial bid review process.

On the Ondo South network rehabilitation project, she disclosed that the federal government through the National Independent Power Project (NIPP) has joined forces with BEDC for the speedy rehabilitation of the whole network.

“According to the new schedule of the joint effort, the first phase is from Ore junction to Okitipupa where 19 communities had been connected to the grid in Ondo South including Ore, Odigbo, Adaja and Liyetu among others. In Ondo North, 34 communities have been connected including Gedegede, Ikun, Eriti, Oke-Agbe, Ikare, Arigidi, Oba-Akoko and Ikaram among others.

Speaking on the disruption in power supply in some areas of Benin, Mrs. Osibodu explained that the disruption, which affected areas such as Evbuotubu, Oliha, Uwelu, Ikpoba dam, Okhoro, Upper lawani and part of GRA, noted that the company had put in place a contingency plan to connect customers in the affected areas to existing functional feeders as a temporary measure pending when the faulty power transformer will either be repaired or replaced

Despite his ordeals described as political, Senator Hope Uzodinma of the All Progressive Party seems to be gathering more support for his gubernatorial ambition in Imo State. This time, the support is coming from popular Nollywood act, Bobby Michaels, who has come out openly to condemn what he describes as the lack of good governance in the state.

Speaking on why he endorsed the APC candidate, Bobby Michaels said he believes strongly that the betterment of Imo citizens lies in the hands of Senator Hope Uzodinma.

According to him, the governorship aspirant will bring a fresh breath to the state which he said is bedeviled by corruption.

“Uzodinma has been divinely crowned to lead Imo citizens out of the mess it currently finds itself. Senator Uzodinma is a man of impeccable and admirable character. His sojourn in the Senate has proven that he is the only one that can bring back the smile into the faces of fellow Imolites.

“The days of stealing pension funds, bad roads, unfinished projects, and all sorts of evil that have made Imo a nightmare and an unlivable place have finally come to an end. For those who witnessed the giant strides of Sam Mbakwe, let them expect more when Uzodinma becomes governor. ” he said.

The actor urged the youth in the state to shun all persons who are looking to disrupt or cause violence in the upcoming elections.

L-R: Former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku; Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, Nonny Ugboma; and Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, during a private reception in honor of the Governor-General of Canada, Hon. Julie Payette, at the Lagos State Waterways Authority’s Five Cowrie Creek terminal in Lagos, yesterday

L-R: President, Compliance Institute Nigeria, Mr. Pattison Boleigha; Chairman, Programme Education and Examination Committee, Ms. Isioma Gogo-Anazodo; and Director, Partnership, Strategy and Communications, Mr. Abimbola Adeseyoju, at the second investiture and induction ceremony Press Conference of Compliance Institute Nigeria, held in Lagos, yesterday SUN-

L-R: Ferring General Manager, Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Madike Seye; Ferring National Sales Manager, Nigeria-Ghana, Mr. Yemi Aladeniyi; Professor Bukola Fawole of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan; President , Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Nigeria (SOGON), Professor Oluwarotimi Akinola; and Professor Emeritus of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. George’s University of London, United kingdom, Professor Sabaratnam Arulkumaran, during the launching of Pabal Carbetocin, at Lagos Sharaton Hotel, ikeja Lagos... recently.

Photo: DAN UKANA

L-R: Flavian Obidigbo Enwezoh; National Chairman/Presidential Candidate of Independent Democrats, Hon Edozie Madu; and Chief Ngozi Agudosi, during the consultations for 2019 presidential election at the headquaters of Independent Democrats in Abuja, yesterday

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍşÍźËœ ͺ͸͚΀

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NEWS

2019: Buhari Already Compromising the Military, PDP Tells UN Envoy Security agencies now extension of APC, say Dickson, Clark Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has alleged that President Muhammadu Buhari and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) were already compromising the nation’s military as part of the overall plot to scuttle the conduct of the 2019 polls.

This is as Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State and the Ijaw National Leader, Chief Edwin Clark, have raised the alarm over what they described as increasing abuse of security agencies by the APC and the federal government.

The PDP in a statement yesterday by its spokesman, Kola Ologbondiyan, said its National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus stated this when he led members of the National Working Committee (NWC) to receive the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel, Mr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas, in his office in Abuja.

The main opposition party, which sought urgent intervention of world bodies and agencies to ensure peaceful conduct of the elections, noted that all indices of peaceful elections were fast fading.

Secondus criticised President Buhari for dragging the nation’s military into politics and using other security forces as tools to muscle the electoral process.

According to Secondus, “Buhari is not preparing for elections. He

is not prepared for the rigours of any electoral exercise. Every wellintentioned politician goes out to the street to engage and persuade the people with his or her manifesto and policies, but President Buhari is not ready to engage anybody in contest of ideas; that is why he is desperate to compromise our military as a measure of limitless powers to rig.�

The PDP National Chairman noted that there was heightened tension across the country over the manipulations by the Buhari-led presidency, adding that if the UN and the international community failed to intervene and support a credible, free and fair election, the nation might witness an electoral stillbirth, capable of triggering violence and humanitarian crisis in Nigeria and the entire sub-Saharan region.

Secondus declared: “President Buhari has militarised our electoral process. In the July and September governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states respectively, in addition to various bye-elections, military equipment were rolled out to prevent the opposition from voting. “Citizens were freely manhandled, arrested and subjugated by security agents, who openly worked for the APC. Today, in Nigeria, the PDP is contesting with security forces and not with the APC. “The world saw how our Service Chiefs participated in President Buhari’s campaign rally. There

ACCOUNTING FOR STEWARDSHIP...

L-R: Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State; Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and the immediate past Governor of the state, Mr. Sullivan Chime, during the book presentation on the eight years tenure of the former governor, held in Enugu, yesterday is no way these Service Chiefs will not be pushed to resort to self-help on behalf of President Buhari and his APC in the election.

The UN Security Council should note this and intervene to save

World Bank, Ekiti Govt to Invest N3.7b on Ero Dam Victor Ogunje Ă“Ă˜ ĂŽĂ™ ÕÓÞÓ The World Bank and Ekiti State Government have concluded arrangements to recommence rehabilitation work on Ero Dam, the largest water supply dam in Ekiti State.

According to Dr. Khairy AlJamal who led the World Bank’s team on the 3rd Urban National Water Sector Reform Project in a meeting with Governor Kayode Fayemi on Thursday, the N3.7 billion water project was expected to help the state address its water challenges as well as curb open defecation.

Al-Jamal who noted that the project would have started in 2014 shortly before Dr. Fayemi left office, said the immediate past administration did nothing

on the award of the project to a contractor.

He stated that there was no preparation or feasibility study which could have helped the bank forge ahead with its aid for the state on the rehabilitation of the treatment plant at the dam as well as transmission pipes transporting water from Ero Dam via IfakiIworoko to Ado Ekiti and other communities.

Al-Jamal stressed that the World Bank “cannot afford to stop or slow down on the project� because it is expected to be completed by June 2020; saying that the bank is keen on seeing Ekiti people have access to potable water supply.

He congratulated Governor Fayemi on his re-election; saying that Ekiti people trusted that the governor had the capacity

to deliver on his people-oriented programmes.

In his response, Governor Fayemi urged the bank to expedite action on the rehabilitation of the dam, adding that the state government would provide necessary support to the Bank to ensure that the 18-month completion date for the project was met.

The Governor who noted that water was a major issue in Ekiti State, said Ero Dam had underperformed despite having the capacity to supply “the bulk of Ekiti State�.

He said the support of the World Bank on the rehabilitation work would not only help his administration achieve its agenda for the sector but also help in actualising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

our democratic process. “Also, President Buhari has compromised our Police. As we speak, the Inspector-General of Police has sealed the Akwa-Ibom State House of Assembly and seized

Alex Enumah The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has called on the Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to support and encourage member states in the region to ratify various international instruments particularly, Convention 189 of the ILO on Domestic Work in order to address the issue of Child Labour in the region.

The organisation also urged the ECOWAS MPs to give necessary support to agencies and institutions spearheading the fight against child labour and trafficking as part of their contributions to completely eradicate the menace

in the sub region.

Workers Specialist and Representative of the Director, International Labour Organisation (ILO) Liaison Office for ECOWAS, Mr. David Dorkenoo, specifically wants parliament support in the area of resources and legislation that would enhance prosecution of suspects engaged in child labour and trafficking to serve as deterrent to others. He made the appeal Friday in Abuja, at the opening of ‘ECOWAS Parliament Workshop on Enhancing Mobilisation against Child Trafficking and Labour: Parliament Contribution’. “The two important ILO Conventions on Child Labour are conventions 138 on Minimum Age and Convention 182 on

eliminating the worst forms of child labour. Another relevant Convention is Convention 189 on Domestic Work. This has only been ratified by only one country in West Africa which is Guinea Conakry, though its implementation is slow. I would therefore like to use this opportunity to appeal to honourable members to support and encourage their respective states to ratify Convention 189 on Domestic Work and other relevant conventions,� he said.

Dorkenoo noted that the issue of child labour, forced labour, and human trafficking are security, development and humanitarian challenges which require coordinated and concerted efforts to eliminate.

Tension Over an Alleged Decamping of Kogi Deputy Governor Yekini Jimoh Ă“Ă˜ ÙÕÙÔË

Governor Akinwumi Ambode of Lagos State has commended the leadership and members of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International Nigeria, (FGBMFI) for their commitment to advancing bible-based principles in business and governance.

Governor Ambode made this declaration as special guest of honour at the closing rally of the Fellowship at the Ikeja Police College field.

According to a statement

by National Chairman, Media and Publicity of the Fellowship, Mr. Cosmas Uzodinma, Lagos recognised the principal place of God in the rising fortunes of the state for which reason he declared the first Sunday of the New Year as

There is tension in the camp of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State over an alleged move by the Deputy Governor, Chief Simon Achuba to decamp to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Chief Achuba who was allegedly sidelined by Governor Yahaya Bello, was said to have dumped APC for PDP without stating any reason.

His alleged decamping was allegedly aired in one of the radio stations in Lokoja on Thursday afternoon.

Sources close to the seat of power, however, disclosed to our correspondent that the visit of the deputy governor to the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki in Abuja last week was giving the

take advantage of the liberal social and economic environment of the state for investment, saying “Lagos is open business.�

Continuing, he observed that Full Gospel was a “selection of Nigeria’s bests. I am delighted to be invited into this august gathering, as I know that Full Gospel is a selection of Nigeria’s best and our nation will be the better for it, when righteous people take up their place in our society and business.�

Earlier in his address of welcome the National President of the FGBMFI Nigeria, Mr. Ifeanyi Odedo, lauded the Governor for his landmark achievements in the areas of poverty alleviation, infrastructure development and sustainable economic growth.

National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been annexed by the Buhari Presidency. This is the reason it has not been able to conduct any credible election in the last three and half years.

ILO Seeks ECOWAS Support in Ratification of Convention on Child Labour

Ambode Commends FGBMFI for Instilling Honesty in Business a day of thanksgiving in the state.

Ambode said, “Lagos is very cosmopolitan and we give all people of faith space to practice their religion.� He thanked all religious leaders for their contributions to the harmony and peaceful coexistence of all Lagos residents.

Speaking on the theme of the Convention, ‘An Open Door’, the Governor described Lagos State as the gateway for many successful business men and women and has provided open doors to a teeming number of both Nigerians and foreigners. He prayed that all persons in Lagos State with genuine business missions should succeed and to prosper in their undertakings while calling on members of the Fellowship to

an arm of government, just like they did in Benue State in July.

Our country has been turned into a police state and there is fear everywhere. “Similarly, our Independent

state government serious concern.

According to the source, the Chief of Staff to the state government felt bad as they perceived the visit to the Senate President as betrayal of trust.

Our reporter further gathered that the unsigned statement of the decamping was allegedly forwarded to the radio station from one of the governor’s aides without the knowledge of the deputy governor.

Chief Achuba who hails from Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State was a two-term member of the state House of Assembly from 1999 to 2007 and was elected as Deputy Speaker during his second tenure.

However, in a swift reaction, the deputy governor said he was

still in APC and that if there was any reason to dump APC, it will not be through the backyard.

Chief Achuba who reacted yesterday through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Akor Sylvester, said “the Office of the Deputy Governor of Kogi State has been drawn to a certain rumour and misrepresentation in a section of the media to the effect that the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Elder Simon Achuba, has defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He noted that it was not true adding that considering the implications of such innuendos, “we are constrained to categorically state that there is no iota of truth in the story making the rounds.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͺͼ˜ ͺ͸͹΀

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NEWSXTRA

More Stranded Nigerians Return from Libya Chinedu Eze The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has announced that it received another batch of 174 stranded Nigeria’s Voluntary Returnees from Libya on Friday.

NEMA said the returnees were received at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, by the Acting Zonal Coordinator of NEMA South West Zonal Officer, Segun Afolayan and other federal government agencies.

They arrived aboard Al Buraq Air which landed at the cargo wing of the airport about 1:10a.m.

The returnees which comprised of 61 female adults, four female children and eight female infants with 91 male adults, six male children and four male infants along with unaccompanied male child were brought back to Nigeria through the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) with support from the European Union in the ongoing Assisted Voluntary Repatriation programme.

PRAYING FOR POWER...

L-R: Kwara State Governorship Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Razak Atunwa and President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki observing jummat prayers at the Ilorin Central Mosque yesterday

Internal Security: NIPSS Advocates Community Policing, Decentralisation of Framework Seriki Adinoyi ÓØ ÙÝ The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) has identified community policing and decentralisation of security framework as the solution to internal security crises bedevilling Nigeria, noting with a framework where the community is involved, the job of internal security would become easier.

Addressing press conference on Friday ahead of the Graduation Ceremony of the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 40 of the institute, the Acting Director General of NIPSS, Mr. Jonathan Juma observed that, “when the various segments are allowed to

participate in intelligence gathering, interact with security agencies so that they are able to identify problem areas and spots with a view to getting the security agents involved.

“We appreciate the fact that communities have been challenged by a number of crisis situations. The idea is how to bring in the communities to be part of the solutions.”

He said the 66 participants of the SEC 40 had in the past 10 months brainstormed on the theme: ‘Strengthening Internal Security Framework and Community Policing in Nigeria: Models, Policy Options and Strategies’, and had come up with the report

that was recently submitted to the President Muhammadu Buhari. “We hope that, if the report submitted to Mr. President is implemented, security issues will be addressed.”

Jume, however, lamented that the institute was under-funded and identified it as a major challenge it was confronted with at the moment, but added that the institute tried to source for funds from other areas to augment funds from government.

He said, “Mr. President has directed that more funds be made available to the institute; we are at the moment grossly underfunded. We require money to be able to discharge our mandate;

if we have funds, we would do a lot of consultations, conduct researches “We also hope that if we are well funded we expand the Senior Executive Course and other courses we run. To do this, we require additional chalets and indicate rooms; and more research fellows, and all these can only come by funding.

“We are not totally dependent on government; we are also looking inwards, we look at internally generated revenue to augment what we get from government.

Hopefully if all things work well, we will increase the number of participants that come in for the Senior Executive Course.”

Offa Robbery: Saraki Calls for Proper APC Group Wants Ondo Executive Dissolved Over Anti-Party Activities Prosecution to Ensure Justice Deji Elumoye ÓØ ÌßÔË Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has called for due diligence in the prosecution of the April 5, 2018, robbery incident that claimed over 30 lives in Offa, Kwara State.

This, he said, was necessary so that justice could be done to the innocent victims of the attacks, the suspects facing trial and the state whose peace was disturbed by the sad incident.

Saraki in a statement on Friday by his Media Adviser, Yusuph Olaniyonu, also said that the response by the Police to his call for inquiry into how the prime suspect in the Offa robbery attacks on April 5, 2018 died was a mere diversionary tactic which was aimed at evading the serious issues of human rights abuse, extra-judicial killing and politicisation of criminal investigations.

Saraki said when he mentioned in his statement on Wednesday that he had been vindicated, he was not referring to the outcome of a case which was just about to commence but rather pointing to the belated admission by the Police that Michael Adikwu, the prime suspect, had died in

custody, a fact that was initially denied by the Police when he (Senate President) raised it a few months ago.

He added that the Police in a cover up of its mishandling of the investigations and their politicisation of the process, had continued to make inconsistent statements and commit more blunders.

“The Police while reacting to our disclosure that the prime suspect had died in custody, caused their spokesman, Moshood Jimoh, to respond that: ‘Michael Adikwu is in police custody in one of the South-west states...helping in the investigation’. The same Police has equally documented the claim that the suspect died during arrest. What a contradiction!

He expressed surprise that the Police which initially allowed the said Adikwu to grant interviews to several national newspapers while in custody refused to inform the public that the suspect had died until the Attorney General of Kwara State mentioned it on November 21, 2018 in the course of his address to the High Court in Ilorin while applying to amend the charge sheet.”

James Sowole ÓØ ÕßÜÏ The internal crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ondo State deepened yesterday as a group under the aegis of Concerned APC leaders, called on the national leadership of the party to dissolve the state executive of the party led by Mr. Ade Adetimehin, over alleged anti-party activities.

The leaders who also alleged the state executive of the party of undermining the national leadership, said the Adetimehin-led state executive had been indirectly encouraging aspirants to approach court over the outcome of the party primaries in the state.

The group led by the former Deputy Governor in the state, Alhaji Ali Olanusi, also alleged that there was a plot by the APC state executive to work against the party in favour of an opposition party in the forthcoming election.

The group specifically alleged that the state executive was planning to work for Action Alliance (AA), in the forthcoming election.

Reacting, the Adetimehin described the allegation as un-

founded and a cheap blackmail by disgruntled people to cause trouble within the party.

“We feel obliged to say, in no ambiguous terms that members of the state executive have never, and will never contemplate anti-party in APC that holds so much hope for us, individually and collectively as a country,” Adetimehin stated.

The APC in a statement signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Alex Kalejaiye, said the APC would win all the elective positions in 2019 election.

The concerned group allegations were contained in a communique issued at the end of the meeting in Akure, Ondo State capital.

The communique, which was read by Chief Bode Sunmonu, was signed by the former Deputy Governor of the state, Alhaji Alli Olanusi and the former Chairman of APC in the state, Mr. Isaacs Kekemeke.

The group therefore, called on the National leadership of APC headed by Adams Oshiomhole, to dissolve the Adetimehin led executive and constitute a Caretaker Committee to run the affairs of the party in Ondo State.

Others include 10 families, three minor medical cases and three pregnant women Afolayan while receiving them urged the returnees to take precautions with any information that seems to be very easy at getting rich, especially when it involves travelling outside Nigeria, noting that most of the conveyors of these messages would not be sincere with the truth.

A returnee, Chukwudi Onyemechie, 30 years old from Anambra State told newsmen that he was a successful auto tyres dealer at Ladipo Market Lagos before he left the country to make quick money and expressed regret at his gullibility to allow himself to be fooled by the promised of better life in the Europe.

Onyemechie disclosed that a man convinced him that he could help him travel to France and linked him to his friend at Libya.

In order to raise money, he sold off his wares and took off to Benin Republic from where his journey to Libya began.

Ilorin Emirate Council Endorses Kwara PDP Guber Candidate Hammed Shittu ÓØ ÖÙÜÓØ Ahead of 2019 elections, the Ilorin Emirate Council on Friday endorsed the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State, Mr. Razak Atunwa.

The Chief Imam of Ilorin and a key member of the Ilorin Emirate Council, Sheikh Mohammed Bashir Salihu gave this indication after yesterday’s Juma’at service at Ilorin Central mosque.

Sheikh Bashir during a special prayer session after the Juma’at service described the PDP gubernatorial candidate as “our emerging governor.”

He prayed God to make Atunwa the next governor of the state in a gathering where the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari and the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki were in attendance.

In Kwara State, the highly revered Ilorin Emirate Council and Islamic scholars led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin play important roles in determining who governs the state.

Also, the Emirate Council and the Saraki political dynasty have been age long allies and one can

hardly stand without the other.

The Chief Imam also offered special prayer for the Senate President, requesting God to continue to grant him resounding successes in all his endeavours.

Sheikh Bashir described Saraki as the “strong pillar on which Kwara stands” adding that “Dr. Saraki is our son who like his late father has always been there for us and has passion for the development of our state. For this reason, we shall continue praying for his success in the political field and other endeavours.”

Prior to yesterday’s endorsement of Atunwa by the Emirate Council, all the traditional chiefs in the five local government areas; Asa, Moro, Ilorin West, Ilorin East and Ilorin South, had during a congratulatory visit to the PDP’s candidate in his GRA residence in Ilorin pledged their allegiance to him and the Senate President.

The traditional chiefs under the auspices of Alangua and Magajis Forum were led on the congratulatory visit to Atunwa by their chairman, Alh Salihu Mohammed Woru, the Magaji NDA of Ilorin who also doubles as the Emir’s spokesman.

Stakeholders Laud Globacom on New Generation of Retail Shops One of the telecommunication providers in the country, Globacom, has been commended by subscribers for constantly devising innovative ways to delight subscribers. This followed the launch of the first in the series of iconic Gloworld shops at Allen Avenue, Lagos, on Saturday.

The subscribers who spoke in interviews conducted at the event said Globacom had lived up to its name as game-changer.

The Managing Director, Ibile Broadband, Mr. Gbenga Oseni, said the launch of the new Gloworld shop was an innovative concept in Customer Care which was bound to challenge other telcos to up their game. He stated that the ambience of the office and the technology installed showed the company’s commitment to customer service, adding “thumbs up for Glo”.

Also speaking the Publisher, Ovation International Magazine, Bashorun Dele Momodu, said, “the Allen shop is beauty personified.

Glo is always ahead in everything - class, panache, style, innovation.

It’s always Glo! Number 1.”

The President, Lagos Customary Court, Mrs. Debo Laditan, in her reaction, exclaimed, “Fantabulous!

The ambience is great and welcoming. Glo is bringing its services closer to the people.” Nollywood icon, Odunlade Adekola, expressed delight at the launch of the shop while Toyin Aimakhu, an actress, enthused: “it is a beautiful place.

I love everything here. It’s like I’m home!.”

Earlier while declaring the complex open, the Lagos State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Mr. Hakeem Popoola Fahm, applauded Globacom for extending its contact centres to more locations, adding that the move would further consolidate its leadership status in the industry.

Welcoming guests to the event, Globacom’s Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Michael Toluhi, explained that the new Gloworld outlet is the first in the series of new shops being established to ensure customer comfort and speedy service delivery.

54

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍşÍźËœ ͺ͸͚΀

NEWSXTRA

Police Lift Siege on A’Ibom Assembly as PDP Laments Okon Bassey Ă“Ă˜ ĂŁĂ™ The Police has lifted its siege on the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly which it allegedly sealed off earlier in the week.

This led the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state to cry out to Nigerians and the international community over alleged attempts by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in collusion with security agencies to make the Akwa Ibom State ungovernable for the 2019 general elections.

The party said yesterday that the strategy was to make it possible for the APC-led federal government to declare a state of emergency in order to pave way for easy manipulations of election results in the state come 2019 elections.

Speaking at a press conference in Uyo, the PDP State Chairman, Obong Paul Ekpo also hinted of fresh plot by the APC to use the EFCC to clamp down on the Akwa Ibom State Government accounts.

The uncovered plot, he said was another desperate attempt by the APC to paralyse the activities of the government of Akwa Ibom

State.

The party cautioned security operatives to cease forthwith, further intimidation of officials of the State Government and principal officers of the state House of Assembly.

Obong Ekpo warned that the PDP would never succumb to these heinous threats, intimidation and to unleash violence in the state by the APC and federal government to illegally take over control of apparatus of the state.

The party expressed concern that despite being adjudged as the safest state in Nigeria, Akwa Ibom has had a very high turnover of police commissioners. “We implore the Nigerian Police Force and other Security agencies to remain non-partisan in the discharged of their duties,�

Ekpo stressed.

He recalled that on November 19, 2018, the party had received and published intelligence report on the plans by APC to illegally prevent the sitting of the state House of Assembly, using thugs and political miscreants.

On the fateful day which was Monday, he said “as early as

7a.m., buses bearing insignia of the opposition APC in the state led by known chieftains of their political coven appeared at the gate of the Assembly and set up bonfire, preventing human and vehicular traffic and seeking to prevent the lawful business of the state legislature.�

According to the party, it was the intervention of the police that the Speaker of the State House of Assembly led other members into the Chambers and resumed legislative duties. “At the sitting, the Speaker evoked the provision of section 109(2) which empowers him to declare the seats of those who had infringe upon section 109(1) (g) and accordingly declare their seats vacant. “This decision by the Speaker to declare the seats which has a precedent in 2014, became the avenue for the APC to commence their long planned desire of unleashing violence and hooliganism on a legal institution of the state as a prelude to making the state ungovernable preparatory to the 2019 election.

Experts Urge FG to Collapse ECA into Stabilisation Account of SWF Adedayo Akinwale Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Mercy Apollos Experts on petroleum, energy economics and public policy have called on the federal government to collapse the Excess Crude Account (ECA) into the stabilisation account of the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF).

The experts made the call yesterday in Abuja at a roundtable meeting on Savings and Stabilisation Mechanism for Nigeria, organised by the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation.

In a communiquĂŠ read at the end of the meeting by Mr. Jide Ojo, the forum said that the economic reforms established by

the Olusegun Obasanjo administration (2003-2007) represented the first attempt to break the pattern through the innovation of a saving mechanism know an as the Excess Crude Account.

The experts observed that attempt had been made to institutionalise the ECA in the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007 but state governors claimed it contradicted the 1999 Constitution. “Despite oil revenue earnings, 60 per cent of the population still lives below poverty line.

Corruption, mismanagement of oil reserves and lack of diversification in the export sector have slowed economic growth and contributed to high poverty levels.

“Multiple ‘curses’ associated with natural resource endowed economies are all manifest in Nigeria. Despite the substantial revenues that have accrued to state and local governments, states are still burdened by debts,� they pointed out.

The experts said that there was need to increase transparency regarding revenue inflow and outflow from the federation account, adding that the disbursement of funds from the stabilisation accounts is absolutely discouraged. “Collapse the Excess Crude Account and 0.5% stabilisation account into the stabilisation account other Sovereign Wealth Fund,� they advocated.

Enugu PDP Frowns at Destruction of its Billboards by Opposition The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, Hon. Augustine Nnamani, Friday addressed newsmen over the destruction of the PDP-led government’s billboards at the entrance of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, welcoming the Vice President, His Excellency, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo to the state.

Hon. Nnamani, who noted that Enugu State under the present administration of His Excellency, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi had been peaceful, regretted that a few individuals in Enugu, who were unsettled by the existing peace and good governance in the state, had returned with their needless antics.

The PDP Chairman added that “this dastardly act was a clear confirmation of our stance that we never destroyed billboards of the opposition political parties in the state or prevented them from mounting their own.�

He stressed that contrary to the unfounded allegations against the PDP, “from what you have seen now, this is a clear testimony that they are the ones destroying our billboards.�

According to him, “the same thing happened to our

billboards, few weeks ago, at Abakpa, Enugu East Local Government Area, where about five billboards were destroyed by opposition political parties. “This actually shows that there were few people in Enugu State who do not want the peace which has been entrenched by the present PDP-led state government to continue, because our government is known for its friendliness and penchant for peace. We accommodate everybody, we allow opinions from all sectors of the society, we don’t go against anybody, our campaigns are based on issues.�

When asked if the PDP specifically suspects any opposition party, Hon. Nnamani explained: “A few days ago, like you all know, the APC, the opposition party in the state accused us of destroying their billboards and I came out openly to say that such a thing never existed. But from what you have just seen, it shows that our own billboards are the ones being destroyed.�

Hon. Nnamani therefore urged the security agencies in the state to fish out the culprits and bring them to book as well as “put adequate measures in place to ensure that this kind of dastardly act does not repeat itself

again.�

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as UBANI EZEM, now wish to be known and addressed as UBANI BENSON EZEM. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as OKE PETER , now wish to be known and addressed as MRS UGBEIDE PETER IREKEFE. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

dĹšĹ?Ć? Ĺ?Ć? ƚŽ Ä?Ĺ˝ĹśÄŽĆŒĹľ ƚŚĂƚ AMAJI, SUNDAY NNAMDI and AMAJI, SUNDAY INNADI is one and the same person. Now wish to be known as AMAJI, SUNDAY NNAMDI. All former documents remains valid.

The general public should please take note. dĹšĹ?Ć? Ĺ?Ć? ƚŽ Ä?ÄžĆŒĆ&#x;ĨLJ ĂŜĚ Ä?Ĺ˝ĹśÄŽĆŒĹľ ƚŚĂƚ IKECHUKWU OLUIGBO ADIM and ADIM IKECHUKWU JOHN refers to one and the same person now wish to be known and addressed as ADIM IKECHUKWU JOHN. All former document remain valid, the general public should please take note

55

NOVEMBER 24, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

SPORTSXTRA

Desire, Oparanozie and Ortega celebrating a goal against Zambia at the on-going AWCON in Ghana

Rohr failed to convince Moses not to quit the national team

Rohr Still Rues Moses Super Eagles’ Quit Super Eagles Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr, has stated that he did his best to ensure that Chelsea winger Victor Moses did not quit the national team after Nigeria’s poor outing at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia but his efforts ended in futility.

Moses on August 15, 2018, announced his retirement from international football making 37 appearances for Nigeria. The decision according to him was to enable him to focus on his club, career and his young family as well as allow the next generation of Super Eagles stars step up and flourish in their various positions.

Rohr replying questions from football lovers all over the world at the Peak Breakfast with Rohr organised for Sports Editors in Lagos, said: “I tried to convince him that it was not the best time to retire but he said he wanted to focus on his club career. I hope he will get an oppor-

tunity to play in Chelsea or with another club.”

The Franco-German tactician also stated that the door is not closed to the versatile player. “I hope he will change his mind because he is only 27 years old. That is too young an age to retire.”

Moses who helped Nigeria win her first Africa Cup of Nations trophy in 2013 after 19 years and also featured at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups has had a difficult time at Chelsea since the arrival of Maurizio Sarri playing just twice in the ongoing English Premier League.

Meanwhile, Rohr has acknowledged that there is ‘a lot of work to do’ before the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

After playing out a 1-1 stalemate with South Africa in last Saturday’s qualifying game, the three-time African champions returned to the tournament after missing out on the previous two editions.

The draw helped them to maintain their place at the summit of Group E with 10 points from five games and the 65-year-old, pleased with the improvement of the Super Eagles under him, acknowledged that there is still much to cover.

“We don’t just want to qualify for the AFCON, we want to finish top of our group. We need to win against Seychelles to achieve that,” Rohr said.

“We still have a lot of work to do. We’ve really improved from the point I took over the Super Eagles. The joy to play good football, defend and score goals has now improved. We make fewer mistakes now as a team.”

Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has not featured for the team since leading them at the World Cup in Russia but Rohr insisted that the former Chelsea midfielder is still in his plan.

“That (Samuel) Chuk-

wueze wore the number 10 jersey against Uganda doesn’t translate to being a replacement for Mikel.

It’s just a jersey number he used,” he said.

“Mikel remains in our plans and we all know why he has been out of the team. Mikel Obi will decide if he wants to play at AFCON 2019. He was omitted because of fitness issues, but we will look at his performance before the tournament.

“After the FIFAWorld Cup in Russia, Obi Mikel wanted to take a break. He told me he needed rest and motivation.

When he is ready, he will be back. Mikel is a fantastic captain.”

The German tactician also explained why Samuel Kalu has been preferred to Moses Simon in the Super Eagles set-up recently, backing his decision to deploy the Bordeaux winger in a wing-back role against South Africa.

Pummelling E’Guinea not Falcons’ Priority, Says Oshoala Ahead of Nigeria’s Super Falcons make or mar final group match against two-time Africa Women Cup of Nations champions Equatorial Guinea, Super Falcons forward Asisat Oshoala has stated that the main goal of the team is to get the maximum three points in the match with less emphasis on the number of goals to be scored.

The Dalian Quanjian of China striker believes that aiming for a superior number of goals even before playing the game can be likened to

jumping the gun which might be counterproductive. “Our primary aim is to get three points and hopefully we get the goals as much as we can.

As a team, we want to score goals but if we start thinking about goals and forget about our primary aim, it won’t be good for us so as a team we just want to go all out.”

The former Arsenal and Liverpool of England star insisted that the team’s opponent having lost two games and being automatically out of the championship might want to play for pride which

might make life more difficult for the Falcons. “Equatorial Guineahave lost two matches already and this is their last game of the tournament.

They know they have nothing to lose and it’s always difficult to play a team like this.”

Oshoala insisted that despite the threat that might come with the Guineans trying to play for pride, she believes that the Falcons have all it takes to get the maximum points and still score more goals. “We don’t want to play them and get

just one point because that’s not going to be very good for us. We hope to win and with lot of goals.”

Equatorial Guinea are currently bottom of Group B at the ongoingAWCON having conceded a total of 12 goals in two games. The hurriedly assembled team lost the first game 5 – 0 to Zambia before suffering a heavy 7 – 1 loss to the Bayana Bayana of South Africa.

Nigeria’s Super Falcons will face the Guineans today at 5:30p.m. at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium in Ghana.

Solanke Threatens Umar’s Position at Glasgow Rangers Glasgow Rangers of Scotland attacker, Sadiq Umar is set to lose his spot in the team to incoming Nigerian-born striker, Dominic Solanke from Liverpool.

Umar, who has been on loan at The Gers from AS Roma of Italy, has failed to impress

Rangers’ boss, Steven Gerrard, and is set to give way to former Chelsea youngster, Solanke.

While Umar is set to lose out, fellow-Nigerian-born attacker, Ovie Ejaria may still be around at Ibrox to say ‘welcome’ to Solanke in January.

Umar and Ejaria, who both

joined The Gers in the summer have not found their going so smooth at the Ibrox club, but the latter of the two could yet be around to receive Solanke other things being equal.

This is sequel to reports out Queensland, indicating that Solanke is set for a move to

Rangers, as he is unable to get much first team action with The Reds so far this season.

Solanke could now be heading out on loan when the transfer window reopens in January, only for Rio 2016 Olympics bronze medalist, Umar to make way for him.

Bellew Retires from Boxing, Says £100m Can Tempt Him Back Former world cruiserweight champion Tony Bellew has confirmed his retirement from boxing, 12 days after his defeat

by Oleksandr Usyk.

In the aftermath of the eighth-round loss to the Ukrainian, the Briton said his career in the ring was “over”.

Everton fan Bellew said his greatest achievement was beating Ilunga Makabu at his beloved Goodison Park in 2016 to win the WBC cruiserweight title.

“There will be no more fighting from me,” said Bellew, who retires aged 35.

The Liverpudlian, who won 30 of his 34 professional fights, added: “The only thing you will see me doing from here on is trying to act sensible and being myself. I have had a fantastic career and have realised my dreams.”

After one defence of his cruiserweight title, Bellew stepped up to heavyweight and twice beat compatriot David Haye in two lucrative fights in 2017 and 2018, before returning to cruiserweight to face Usyk.

Bellew, who made his professional debut in 2007, also held the British and Commonwealth light-heavyweight titles and European cruiserweight title in his career.

When asked whether purse would tempt him out of retirement, Bellew added: “Eddie (Hearn) gets £100m together for me and offers me one more fight, what do I say? Wow, wow - that is probably what I would say. Wow, wow and then walk into the missus and say ‘Eddie has come on board with £100m’ and she would probably hand me divorce papers.

“Money is good but money comes and goes, that is the best way of saying it.”

Nigerian Named in CONCACAF Best X1 United States U-20 international of Nigerian descent, Ayo Akinola has been recognisedfor his outstanding performance in the recently concluded CONCACAF U-20 Championship after he was included in the Team of the Tournament.

The Toronto FC winger helped the United States to successfully defend their title and qualify for next year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland.

CONCACAF’s technical study group has selected the top eleven players in each position, with Akinola picked as the number one right winger in a 4-3-3 formation.

The 18-year-old appeared in all the eight games contested by the United States during the three-week tournament, scoring an impressive seven goals and providing one assist.

Akinola was among the eight United States players named in the Best XI selection. Last season, he signed a Homegrown contract with Toronto FC and played four games for the Canadian club in Major League Soccer.

GOtv to Air Manchester United, Crystal Palace Live Premier League action returns this weekend following the last International break of 2018. The return will see Manchester United attempt to get their season back on track when they host Crystal Palace at Old Trafford today. The match will be broadcast live to GOtv subscribers on SuperSport Select 2 (channel 32) at 4p.m.

Before the International break, Manchester United suffered a humiliating 1-3 loss to rivals, Manchester City in their derby match. Manchester United are almost mid-table at eight position after 12 games. They have won 6 matches, lost four and drawn two. The Red Devils will be hoping to get back to winning ways against a Crystal Palace side that sits just a point above the relegation zone. The match will be available to GOtv Plus and GOtv Max subscribers.

On Sunday, the action continues as Wolves take on Huddersfield Town at 5p.m. on SuperSport Select 2 (channel 32).

Saturday, November 24, 2018

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UT H

& RE A S O

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Price: N250

MISSILE

Soyinka to Buhari

“It is a national embarrassment that our President has refused to obey laws. Citizens should not be the one to choose the laws to obey” – Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, criticizing the incarceration of Sambo Dasuki and Ibrahim El-Zakzakky.

PENDULUM DELE MOMODU

dele.momodu@thisdaylive.com

As John Dramani Mahama Turns 60, a Toast to an Icon

I

have the pleasure of celebrating the immediate past President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, a man who has demonstrated beyond any doubt that not all African leaders are clueless, incompetent or visionless. Yes, I can confidently assert the fact that this perfect gentleman is an epitome of visionary leadership on a continent where poor leadership has been gloom and doom. I have had the privilege of knowing and following former President Mahama very closely and I’m endlessly proud of his passion for infrastructure development and modernisation of Ghana in particular and Africa in general. Until I encountered this prodigiously brilliant leader, I never thought any African leader could be that committed to the onerous task of nation-building.

John Mahama was born on November 29th, 1958 in Damango, capital of West Gonja District, to an affluent teacher, rice farmer and politician.

His father, Emmanuel Adama Mahama, was the first member of Parliament for West Gonja and the first Regional Minister of Northern Region, serving under Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah. The older Mahama also served as a Special Presidential to President Hilla Liman in the Third Republic.

Mahama had his secondary school education at Achimota School, Accra and studied for his A’ levels at Ghana Secondary School, Tamale .He had his first degree education at the University of Ghana, Legon where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in History in 1981. After completing his university education, Mahama became a History teacher, teaching secondary school students.

During this time, he completed a postgraduate diploma course in communication studies from his alma mater, the University of Ghana, Legon in 1986.level. Thereafter JDM proceeded to Russia in the old Soviet Union, where he underwent further postgraduate studies at the Institute of Social Sciences, Moscow. He obtained a master’s degree in social psychology in 1988.

After completing his studies in Moscow in 1988, Mahama returned to Ghana, he worked as the Information, Culture and Research Officer at the Embassy of Japan in Accra between 1991 and 1995. He joined the Ghana country office of Plan International, an anti-poverty non-governmental organisation in 1995 and was employed as the organisation’s International Relations, Sponsorship Communications and Grants Manager. He left the organisation in 1996 to take up a career in politics.

JDM, followed his father’s footsteps when he joined the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in 1996. Even then, he was a popular man in his constituency, and was at that early stage already being considered as an indefatigable champion of the underprivileged. He was easily elected as Member of Parliament to represent Bole/Bamboi Constituency for a 4-year term that year. He was re-elected in 2000 and 2004.

He was appointed Deputy Minister of Communications in 1997 and was elevated to the post of Minister of Communications in 1998. As Minister of Communications he was also Chairman of the National Communications Authority where he played a key role in stabilizing Ghana’s telecommunications sector. After leaving office as Minister when his party, NDC, was defeated Mahama continued as a member of Parliament and was Minority Parliamentary Spokesman for Communications and later, Minority Spokesman for Foreign Affairs.

Mahama has always been interested in international affairs. In 2003 he became a member of the Pan-African Parliament where he served as the Chairperson of the West African Caucus until 2011. He was also a member of European and Pan African Parliaments’ Ad-hoc Committee on Cooperation. He is a member of the UNDP Advisory Committee on Conflict Resolution in

R-L: Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II; former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama and Queen Naomi Ogunwusi, when they hosted the former Ghanaian leader few days ago in Ile-Ife, Osun State Ghana Foreign Affairs.

Following his Party’s victory in the 2008 polls, John Mahama became Vice-President to Prof John Atta-Mills, a man he would subsequently describe as a father, friend, mentor and senior comrade during the glowing tribute he paid to Professor Mills when he died on 24th July 2012.

It is often said that fate plays a huge role in the affairs of men, and this statement is certainly true of how providence has dealt the cards for John Dramani Mahama, because nobody could ever have foretold the shocking death of President John Attah Mills on July 24th, 2012, and Mahama’s immediate elevation to the position of President of the Republic of Ghana. He thus made history as the first Ghanaian Head of State to have been born after the nation’s independence (March 6, 1957). Like his father who had achieved a string of firsts in his political career, JDM upon becoming President of Ghana gained a string of superlative firsts which is unlikely to ever be matched in Ghana and possibly elsewhere in the world.

His achievement meant that he had served at all levels of political office in Ghana - Ghanaian and Pan-African Member of Parliament, Deputy Minister, Minister, Vice-President and President).

Mahama contested the 2012 Presidential polls for as a candidate in his own right and defeated Nana Akuffo-Addo who he had defeated in the 2008 polls as part of the Ata-Mills Mahama Presidential ticket. He was elected for a 4-year term which sadly for Ghana ended with his defeat to the same Nana Akuffo Addo in the 2016 Presidential polls.

Mahama is a Christian, born and raised a Presbyterian but now a member of the Assemblies of God. He grew up in a multi-faith family, consisting of Christian and Muslims, that experience has been responsible for his ability to connect with effortless ease.

Many have asked me the question why then did he lose the last Presidential elections? The reasons are very simple and straight-forward.

Stomach infrastructure has become a major factor in African politics. There is mass poverty and unmitigated hunger everywhere you turn.

When people are hungry, they just want food.

Majority of people hardly travel beyond their immediate environment. They do not care about good roads. They have no business in a modern or beautiful airport. Even when there is electricity, it is epileptic, they don’t worry much. Building modern hospitals is mere luxury to the poor. They have been brought up to drink concoctions and incise their bodies to rub in some esoteric herbs.

Students go to school hoping to get instant jobs as soon as they graduate and most want government employment. What is worse, there is no strategy more potent than labelling a leader corrupt even

when there is no evidence.

President Mahama did not mind his detractors and traducers. He was too busy working with the agility of a horse. He was building new roads and rehabilitating old ones. I have been to all the ten regions of Ghana and I saw wonderful roads in many of them. And they were done in record time. During his Presidential campaign, we drove day and night without any fear and this was made possible by a good network of roads made possible by successive governments in Ghana.

Similarly, he believes in the adage that health is wealth and devoted considerable energy not only to upgrading existing hospitals, but also building new state of the art hospitals and medical centres.

As I keep saying, Ghana is an example of how a nation can achieve plenty with paltry resources, and Mahama is one of the African visionaries who shows by leadership and example how easy it is to achieve this.

Under Mahama, the sense of pride around the continent was restored. There was a time when positive stories about Africa were as dead as the dodo, but this remarkable man changed all that, reducing the stigma associated with African leaders with his ambitious agenda.

Mahama has always been recognised as an African Statesman and he has grown into this role since he left office in January 2017. Whilst in office as President of Ghana, he was elected President of ECOWAS in March 2014. In June 2014, he was elected Chairperson of the African Union’s (AU’s) High-Level African Trade Committee (HATC).

At the 2016 World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, Mahama became co-chair of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Advocates Group comprising of 17 eminent persons who assisted the UN Secretary-General in the campaign to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

In recognition of his amiable but tough nature and his skills as a respected negotiator and statesman, he was part of the ECOWAS Presidential mediation team appointed to resolve the post-election logjam in The Gambia following the victory of Adama Barrow over Yahya Jammeh in December 2016.

He was instrumental in the speedy resolution of the matter and the eventual swearing of President Barrow. I was privileged to witness first hand JDM at work together with President Sirleaf-Johnson of Liberia and could see the respect and awe that his colleagues had for him, including Jammeh.

Mahama is a very IT savvy person. He recognises the power and place of the internet and social media and believes it is a veritable tool for the development and unity of the African continent despite some of its drawbacks with fake news.

Mahama consequently takes his social media awareness seriously and his esteem and popularity

is demonstrated by the fact that he is one of Africa’s most-followed leaders on Twitter and Facebook.

The personable gentleman made infrastructure development the cardinal principle of his government and stayed glued to it stubbornly.

He told his people the bitter truth at every point.

He felt that for the country to make any meaningful and sustainable progress, the Country first of all had to put in place infrastructure that would be lasting and real. This he said was to be preferred to any immediate palliative that would only offer temporary solace to the people but would never solve their problems or that of generations coming after them. Thus, he spoke what no politician would have said and what the citizens would not like to hear. Mahama was a man in a hurry to build a new Ghana. His dream was to surpass the commendable work of his predecessors, especially that of the father of modern Ghana, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah and leave a legacy of lasting structures. Like all mortals, Mahama was not a perfect human being. He had his foibles but was nevertheless rigidly committed to his developmental projects.

Another pointer as to his sense of purpose was how he battled the electricity challenge (which came to be derisively referred to as ‘dumso dumso’), to a standstill and pursued rural electrification with gusto. The deployment of emergency plants and speeding up the completion of the plants that were under construction resulted in the addition of more than 800 MW of power over an 18-month period. Another testament to his vision and daring is the recently completed International Terminal of the Kotoka Airport which has continued to be a source of marvel to visitors and residents of Ghana as it epitomises the vision of Mahama for a Ghana that would compete with any developed nation. The Airport is simply a breath-taking sight to behold and Ghanaians continue to commend Mahama for embarking on this project which in his inimitable way did not cost the nation an arm and a leg.

Don’t let his understated boyish charm deceive you, he has an inner steel that confounded even his greatest of critics. It was this resolve that enabled him to pursue tough reforms that were intended to boost the economy, reduce high unemployment and transform Ghana into a more dynamic, competitive and inclusive economy.

Mahama won many over with his message of hope and warmth, tolerance and inclusion, attributes that mirror his upbringing. As he celebrates his 60th birthday on November 29th, 2018, I join the myriad of his admirer, fans, family and friend to toast the ultimate and consummate Statesman and Leader, John Dramani Mahama. For Mahama, I believe the best is yet to come.

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