FRIDAY 30TH NOVEMBER 2018

Moody’s: Weak Capital Buffers Reveal Tier 2 Banks’ Vulnerability Nigerian businesses lose $25bn annually to power outages Obinna Chima in Lagos and Chineme Okafor in Abuja One of the leading global rating agencies, Moody’s Investor Service, yesterday pointed out that the smaller banks in Nigeria, commonly known as the tier 2 banks,

are operating with weaker capital buffers, which indicate vulnerability of these banks. This is coming as World Bank Group (WBG) report has disclosed that Nigerian

businesses experience an average of 239 hours power outages monthly, compelling them to resort to alternative electricity sources, which in turn results in economic

losses in excess of $25 billion annually. The rating agency, however, noted that capital buffers are strong for the bigger banks in the country.

Moody’s stated this in a 35-page report on its 2019 outlook for African banks. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) requires that banks with international

NCC Sets 2020 for 5G Rollout in Nigeria... Page 9

subsidiaries maintain a capital adequacy ratio (CAR) of 15 per cent, while banks without international subsidiaries maintain CAR of 10 per cent. But the minimum requirement for the Continued on page 8

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2019: Atiku Exudes Confidence, Predicts PDP Win, Promises Fiscal Transparency Iyobosa Uwugiaren, Deji Elumoye, Adedayo Akinwale and Victoria Yesin in Abuja The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, yesterday expressed confidence that the party would win the forthcoming general

elections, giving assurances that the main opposition party would enthrone the best fiscal responsibility practices in the country when it assumes power. Speaking at the inauguration of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council, in Abuja, Atiku also said President

Muhammadu Buhari should sign the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2018 into law without further delay, explaining that the president’s immediate assent is necessary because elections are governed by laws and that good laws are required to ensure credible elections.

Atiku, who also spoke yesterday at the 83rd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party held at its National Secretariat in Abuja, promised not to disappoint the people if elected as president next year. The vice presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi;

Governors Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta State), Ahmed Abdulfatah (Kwara), and Dave Umahi (Ebonyi); Senate President Bukola Saraki; Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu; and former governors of Benue and Niger States, Gabriel Suswam and Babangida Aliyu, were

among many others at the meeting. The NEC meeting was the first to be held after the party’s convention held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where Atiku emerged as the party’s candidate. Continued on page 8

FG Expresses Reservation over Moves to Grant Atiku US Visa Says it could indicate his endorsement Buhari may review status of service chiefs Mohammed insists war against terror on course Iyobosa Uwugiaren in Abuja The federal government yesterday expressed reservations over moves to grant the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, United States of America’s visa, fearing it might be deemed to be an endorsement of the main

opposition party’s candidate by the US government. The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, spoke to senior journalists in Abuja yesterday and said while the federal government realised it was the prerogative of the US government to determine Continued on page 9

Amosun's Associate, Akinlade, Dumps APC, Picks APM Gov Ticket... Page 8

MERGER LIKE NO OTHER... L-R: Director, Cement Company of Northern Nigeria, Alhaji Kabiru Rabiu; Managing Director, Mr. Yusuf Binji; and Founder, BUA Group and Chairman,CCNN, Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu, during court ordered Extra Ordinary General Meeting of CCNN, where shareholders voted to merge with the BUA-owned Kalambaina Cement Company, in Sokoto… yesterday

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Amosun’s Associate, Akinlade, Dumps APC, Picks APM Gov Ticket Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja and Femi Ogbonnikan in Abeokuta Few hours to tomorrow’s deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the final substitution of governorship candidates of political parties for the 2019 general elections, the preferred candidate of Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State, Mr. Adekunle Akinlade, and four members of the state House of Assembly have defected from for the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Allied

People’s Movement (APM). A source close to Akinlade confirmed to THISDAY yesterday that the Yewa South/ Ipokia Federal Constituency lawmaker will fly the APM flag in the 2019 governorship election in the state. The other four defectors, who crossed carpet yesterday, include the Majority Leader, Mr. Adeyinka Mafe; Chief Whip, Mr. Idowu Olowofuja (Abeokuta South 2); Mr. Tunde Sanusi (Obafemi-Owode) and Mr. Ganiyu Oyedeji (Ifo 2). As a serving member of the House of Representatives, the

letter of Akinlade's decision to dump the ruling party was read yesterday on the floor of the House by the Speaker, Mr. Yakubu Dogara, during plenary. Other members of the House of Representatives who defected include, Mr. Rabiu Kaugama (Jigawa), who dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Social Democratic Party (SDP); Mr. Mohammed Ajanah (Kogi), who left APC to PDP; and Mr. Salisu Koko (Kebbi), who preferred SDP to his former party, APC. The lawmakers attributed their defections to impunities

and undemocratic tendencies in their various parties. It was also gathered that the defection letter of the four members were read on the floor of the state House of Assembly by the Speaker, Mr. Suraj Adekunbi. An official of APC in the state told THISDAY off the record that the state chapter of APC remains an indivisible entity and will not join the aggrieved governorship candidate (Akinlade) and the 26 state House of Assembly candidates in moving to the APM. According to the source, "We

are not going to APM. All the executive members of the APC in Ogun State still remain in the party. "Those who decided to go to the new party (APM) because of injustice meted out to them, not only limited to the governorship candidate (Akinlade), but also all the aggrieved 26 state House of Assembly candidates, that are not happy with the decision of the National Working Committee (NWC), following the imposition of Prince Dapo Abiodun, as the APC governorship candidate, are

free to do so. "So, their defection to the APM can't and will not shrink the strength of the APC, even preparatory to the upcoming 2019 general elections. "Though the executive members of the party in the state are not happy with the decision of the NWC, by imposing Dapo Abiodun on us, but one thing I want you to know is that, the governorship candidate, Abiodun himself, hasn't reached out to us for our support. Once he does that, we will give him our unalloyed support.�

2019: ATIKU EXUDES CONFIDENCE, PREDICTS PDP WIN, PROMISES FISCAL TRANSPARENCY He stated, “That is a turning point for democracy and for PDP in this country. What we need do is to build on that momentum. Again, earlier on this morning, I had the opportunity to be invited by the National Working Committee (NWC), for the first time in the history of this party, the NWC rendered to me the details income and expenditure of all the money realised in this convention. I have never seen such a fiscal responsibility by any political party. “I said to them, that has posed a very big challenge should we win and we must win the presidential election. We will have to enthrone the best fiscal responsibility this country has ever known or ever seen,

simply because our party has given us that leadership.� The former vice president said he believed that with the genuine support of everyone, the governors and members of the National Assembly, party leaders and party supporters, the election is for the party to win. Atiku said that signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill into law was necessary because elections were governed by laws and that good laws were required to ensure credible elections. He stressed, “We are facing an APC government that is desperate to cling to power at all costs, which means that this will be a tough presidential election.

“I called on President Muhammadu Buhari to sign into law the Electoral Act Amendment bill for free and fair election.� Also, the Senate president and Campaign Director-General, Dr. Bukola Saraki, said despite the fact that Nigerians are in full support of the party, the party must stay strong because it is not going to be easy. He said what the country needs now is someone that understands what it takes to bring food to the table, and a man that understands what it takes to unite Nigeria and provide security. Saraki said, “Let the man that does not have it leave the place and let the man that has it come in and do it. It depends on

Nigerians to decide what to do. It is not about sentiment, it is about who can do it.� On his part, the National Chairman of the party, Prince Uche Secondus, urged the party members to remain resolute in order to achieve the historic agenda of rescuing the country from the hands of the APC. He explained that the party would come up with a pragmatic campaign structure that would devolve powers to the grassroots, where the polling takes place, stressing that it is not going to be business as usual because the emphasis is at the polling unit. Secondus lamented that the state of affairs of the country is getting worse by the day, noting that the APC government has

continued to show that it lacks the wherewithal to manage the affairs of the country. He said, “The consequences of rigging 2019 election may be terrible for our dear country. So, we call on all Nigerians and the international community to add their voices to the agitation towards ensuring that the APC, federal government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conduct free and fair transparent election in 2019. On his part, the Chairman, PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Jubrin Walid, said after the National Campaign Council and National Advisory Council has been approved, it is the duty of all members to give total support and maximum

cooperation that would lead to the emergence of Atiku as the president. The BoT chairman urged the party to avoid any form of impunity as the campaign kicks off, and embrace collective decision that involves everybody, adding that the party should never leave anyone aggrieved. Members of the 154 presidential campaign council include, Atiku, Peter Obi, Secondus, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, Deputy Senate president, Ike Ekweremadu, Kola Ologbondiyan, Adolphus Wabara, Tom Ikimi, Attahiru

citizens. "Average annual per capita electricity consumption of Nigeria (147 kWh) is a fifth of the average low middle-income country consumption (736 kWh) and a twentieth of the global average consumption (3,298 kWh). “The unreliable power supply results in lack of consumers’ willingness to pay, drives industry to pursue off-grid alternatives and causes economic losses in excess of US$25 billion annually (the PSRP estimate)," it said. It further explained: “Nigerian businesses experience an average of 239 hours of power outages per month, accounting for nearly seven per cent of lost sales. Most private enterprises are forced to resort to self-generation at a high cost to themselves and the economy (about US$0.20 - 0.30 per kWh as compared to the current grid based tariff of US$0.16 per kWh).� The report equally noted that an investment climate assessment conducted in Nigeria indicated that a good number of Nigerian business owners considered lack of electricity as being the biggest obstacle to doing business in the country. According to it, the steep decline in power output in 2016 from the peak of over 5,000 megawatts (MW) in March 2016 to less than 3,500MW in early 2017 contributed to the contraction of economic activity by an estimated 1.5 per cent in 2016. The document also stated that the lack of consistently cost-reflective tariffs and low collections have been the main

sources of the poor financial viability of electricity distribution companies (Discos), which it noted, have accumulated huge revenue deficits in the market. It said, “From November 2013 to December 2014, the accumulated financial deficit was NGN213 billion (US$678 million, equivalent). An additional deficit of about NGN473 billion (US$1.5 billion, equivalent) was accumulated from January 2015 to December 2016. “End-user tariffs have fallen below cost recovery due to their inadequate adjustment for inflation, exchange rate, and actual amount of energy delivered.�

Continued on page 9

MOODY'S: WEAK CAPITAL BUFFERS REVEAL TIER 2 BANKS’ VULNERABILITY systemically important banks is 16 per cent. The apex bank had in its recently released half year economic report, revealed that as of June 2018, three commercial banks did not have the prescribed minimum liquidity ratio of 30 per cent. The CBN had also warned commercial banks to guard against emerging risks in the financial system, saying the sector’s resilience was receding. The Deputy Governor, Corporate Service Department of the bank, Mr. Edward Adamu, had stated this in a statement at the September 2018 Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting. He had also noted the rising non-performing loans (NPLs) ratio in the sector, which he said was driven essentially by oil sector exposures. Equally of concern to Adamu was the decline in capital market indicators. Continuing, Moody’s in the report noted that the risks to the operating environment relate to the rising US interest rates leading to capital outflows across emerging markets, in conjunction with rising government debt and currency depreciation, could significantly harm African banks’ loan quality and access to foreign currency. The report, however, stated that Nigeria has a stable outlook because of the improved foreign-currency liquidity and rising loan quality. Furthermore, it explained that higher oil prices and partial liberalisation of the foreign-exchange market have eased pressures on, “unhedged borrowers and normalised

foreign-currency liquidity.� It, however, pointed out that asset risks nonetheless remain high as Nigerian banks continue to tackle legacy issues, “similarly, earnings remain under pressure as loss-loss provisions remain elevated.� For banks in the continent generally, the report predicted that the financial institutions would show financial resilience. It projected a mild recovery in economic growth, driven by relatively stable commodity prices, robust domestic demand and domestic policy adjustments. It stated, “Stricter regulation and better supervision will also help address legacy governance issues and support banks’ financial stability. We view Egyptian, Moroccan and Mauritius rated banks as most resilient. “Banks’ credit profiles remain sensitive to such developments, including through inter-linkages with their sovereigns, particularly given their large holdings of government securities. “Many sovereigns came out of the recent commodity slump with weakened fiscal positions. Tunisian, Tanzanian and DRC banks are most at risk, and to a lesser extent South African, Nigerian and Angolan banks. “For 2019, we expect most rated banks to maintain stable profitability, build up their capital buffers and retain ample local currency funding. “Asset risks will remain high, while we also expect some renewed tightening of foreign currency liquidity; banks are, however, in a better position to withstand pressures following efforts to reduce

foreign-currency lending.� For Moody’s rated countries, the report projected Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 3.8 per cent in 2019, up from 3.1 per cent in 2018 and 2.7 per cent in 2017, stating that growth would be driven by relatively stable oil and commodity prices, stronger agricultural output, domestic policy adjustments and strong domestic demand. It added, “For the continent’s two biggest economies -Nigeria and South Africa, growth will be more subdued at 2.3 per cent and 1.3 per cent respectively, but higher than 2016-2018. “More stable oil prices will drive economic acceleration in Nigeria and improved business and investor confidence will spur improvement in South Africa. “The new macroprudential limits set in Egypt; implementation of Basel II/III capital standards in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) and the adoption of IFRS 9 accounting standards across most African countries. “These initiatives will also help address legacy corporate governance issues and patchy credit underwriting that were behind the recent failure of banks in Angola and of second-tier banks in Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria. “In this environment we project a slight acceleration in loan growth to around 10 per cent.� It also stated that political uncertainty and risk of social unrest are an ever-present challenge for Africa, citing South Africa, Tanzania, and Nigeria as some of the countries that

face such challenges, which could weaken investor and consumer confidence. “External shocks such as falling commodity prices, drought, or an escalation of global trade wars, could hurt African corporate and their ability to repay debt,� it warned.

Nigerian Businesses Lose $25bn Annually to Power Outage Meanwhile, a World Bank Group (WBG) report has disclosed that Nigerian businesses experience an average of 239 hours power outages monthly, compelling them to resort to alternative electricity sources, which in turn results in economic losses in excess of $25 billion annually. The document, obtained by THISDAY was part of the Power Sector Recovery Programme (PSRP), which the World Bank developed in 2017 with the federal government to revive Nigeria’s ailing power sector privatised in 2013. It explained that poor electricity supply in the country also leads to payment apathy by consumers. According to the report, with the high power outages, Nigerian firms frequently resort to alternative electricity sources which in turn results to economic losses in excess of $25 billion annually. Titled, ‘Program-for-Results Information Document (PID) concept stage’ under the Power Sector Recovery Performance Based Loan, the report stated: “Electricity service delivery is poor with serious repercussions for Nigerian economy and

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NGN NGN 0.02 0.22 0.15 1.68 0.02 0.25 0.50 7.50 0.13 2.00 NGN 0.03 0.28 0.07 0.66 0.04 0.40 JAIZBANK 0.04 0.40 LIVESTOCK 0.05 0.52 HPE Nestle Nig Plc â‚Ś1,485.00 Volume: 441.605 million shares Value: N4.460 billion Deals: 3,648 As at yesterday 29/11/18 See details on Page 41

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NCC Sets 2020 for 5G Rollout in Nigeria Emma Okonji The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has said Nigeria would be ready to roll out 5G networks with the 26GHz, 38GHz and 42GHz spectrum bands by 2020. The Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, said this in Abuja yesterday during a collaborative meeting with GSMA for 5G rollout in Nigeria. According to him, trial testing of the rollout plan has commenced in the country beginning with the Eko Atlantic Project, where broadband data will drive connectivity and allow humans to interact with connected devices to check their health status and remotely control home appliances without physical contact. Danbatta acknowledged the deficit in infrastructure rollout and spectrum availability in the country but added that the NCC

was already working to address the challenges. He said NCC would begin with the available 26GHz, 38GHz and 42GHz to drive 5G rollout in the country. Danbatta said, "NCC is already working on the three key factors that will drive 5G deployments, which include infrastructure, spectrum and regulation ahead of the 2020 rollout date. “We will rely on existing policies and regulation and still come up with additional policies and regulation that will address any hiccups." Also speaking, the Head, sub-Saharan Africa for GSMA, Mr. Akinwale Goodluck, said although Nigeria still operates 2G and 4G networks, they will gradually give way for 5G as the demand for 5G increases among the millennial, who are the digital natives. GSMA used the occasion of the collaborative meeting

Danbatta to launch its latest report, which focused on 'Spotlight on Nigeria: Delivering a Digital Future.' According to the report, modernising regulation and policy reform will be crucial to boosting Nigeria’s digital economy and accelerating internet access for millions through increased mobile broadband penetration. GSMA research shows

that the mobile market in Nigeria makes an important contribution to the economy. The mobile industry contributed $21 billion to GDP in 2017, representing 5.5 per cent of Nigeria’s total GDP. In addition, the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy resulted in the creation of nearly 500,000 direct and indirect jobs, the report said. Addressing the issue of spectrum to drive 5G rollout, GSMA identified support for and release of harmonised spectrum and a modernised licensing framework as fundamental building blocks for Nigeria’s digital future. The harmonisation of 1427-1518 MHz and 3.3–3.6 GHz makes them critically important bands for mobile operators seeking to offer new mobile services to consumers and businesses. Making these bands available for assignment to mobile operators will be a

core component in reinforcing Nigeria’s position as Africa’s leading mobile market, according to GSMA report. Speaking on connectivity, Goodluck said, “Mobile connectivity has already improved the welfare of millions of Nigerians, opening the door to new digital possibilities and powering the country’s economic development.� He added that for Nigeria to take full advantage of the next phase of its digital transformation, it’s vital that collaboration between industry and government enables the right policy environment for millions more to benefit from ultra-fast mobile broadband. According to Goodluck, "If policies don’t keep pace with the needs of society and technological innovation, there is a risk that citizens will be left behind and productivity and competitiveness will suffer.� However, the report

concludes that there is still broad scope for Nigeria to increase its mobile penetration, adding that although more Nigerians are getting access to mobile broadband, the country lags behind regional peers in 4G adoption. It said accelerating adoption of 4G would enable more advanced services and create bigger societal impacts. The GSMA report pointed out that with increased spectrum harmonisation and licensing reform, the country’s mobile penetration is forecast to rise to 55 per cent of the population by 2025, with 70 per cent having 3G connectivity and 17 per cent having access to 4G networks. Currently, only 44 per cent of mobile subscribers in Nigeria are using 3G technology and four per cent are using 4G technology, compared to over 18 per cent 4G penetration in South Africa and 16 per cent in Angola.

‘’Today, not one inch of Nigerian territory is under Boko Haram. They have all been pushed out of Nigerian territory; they now operate from the fringes, from Lake Chad Island (Basin). So, anybody, who is well versed in insurgency, will appreciate that what happened last week was nothing but a setback, and I think it is not to say that the war against insurgency is not going well.’’ The federal government’s spokesman saluted the gallant men and women of the military, who he said, are sacrificing their lives for the nation daily and paying the supreme price for the country to be peaceful, adding that what is important now, are about the steps the government has taken. According to him, “It gladdens my heart that on Wednesday, President Muhammadu Buhari was in Maiduguri for the occasion of Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference. ‘’He seized the opportunity to express Nigerians’ gratitude and appreciation to the entire military and assured them that the equipment materials, he will make sure they get. He said this is a must win war. “Today as we speak Mr. President is in Ndjamena as the chairman of the summit of heads of state and government of the Lake Chad Basin. As you are aware, the Multi-National Joint Task Force is made up of Chad, Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon, with Benin Republic and Central Africa Republic. “Insurgency is not a local issue, it is a global issue. And I am glad that Mr. President is in Ndjamena trying to rally support for the fight against insurgency. I think this setback does not mean that the war against insurgency is not being won.’’ The Senate abruptly adjourned plenary recently

in honour of soldiers killed by the insurgents and ordered its Committees on Army and Defence to investigate the killings as well as probe the welfare of Nigerian troops fighting insurgency. Mr. Femi Adesina, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, in a statement in Abuja said the meeting of the Heads of States and Governments of the LCBC took place in N’Djamena, Chad yesterday. Also, the President of Benin Republic, a troops-contributing country, was also invited to the meeting. He said the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), and national operations of the affected countries had appreciably degraded the capacity of Boko Haram terrorists, although the insurgents still retain the capacity to attack isolated targets in desperate search for supplies. According to Adesina, the one-day meeting reviewed the security situation in the areas affected by Boko Haram insurgency. He said it would also adopt measures to enhance the capacity of the MNJTF to meet the challenges of securing the areas. Adesina stated, “The presidents of the LCBC member countries of Chad, Cameroon, Niger, and the Central African Republic were invited to attend the meeting. “The President of Benin Republic, a troops-contributing country was also invited to attend. “The MNJTF and the national operations of the affected countries have appreciably degraded the capacity of Boko Haram terrorists, although the insurgents still retain the capacity to attack isolated targets in desperate search for supplies.’’

FG EXPRESSES RESERVATION OVER MOVES TO GRANT ATIKU US VISA who to allow entry into its territory, he said the Nigerian government did not want a situation that would suggest that one candidate was preferred to the other. He also spoke about the resurgence of terror and recent military operational losses in the North-east and said in spite of these, the government was winning the fight with Boko Haram in the troubled region. ‘’Our position is that if the former VP already has a US visa, we have no problem about it. What we warn the US government is not to give the impression that it is endorsing one particular candidate over the other. That is what is going to happen, if for instance the former VP is granted a visa, Mohammed said, adding, ‘’We are not unaware; I think it is also in the public domain, that Atiku has engaged the service of some lobbyists in the US to facilitate the issuance of visa for him.’’ He said, ‘’As you all will be aware, for more than 12 years there has been a congressional bi-partisan investigation of corruption against certain individuals which had made it difficult for the former vice president to secure a US visa. ‘’I am sure you will all recall the Jefferson case and what they called the cold $90,000 in the fridge. This is not the making of this administration, it has been ongoing.� As Mohammed spoke yesterday, restating government’s position that the war against terror was apace despite recent operational setbacks, THISDAY gathered that President Muhammadu Buhari might be reviewing his decision to retain the service chiefs till after the general elections in 2019. Although the information minister would not comment on this, THISDAY sources close to the presidency said following

operational setbacks in the last few weeks at the theatre of war, owing to disconnect among the three services, particularly the Army and the Air Force, the president is doing a tactical review of the military situation and might soon act decisively. “He might remove the service chiefs shortly,� the reliable source said. Meanwhile, consistent with his recent moves to arrest the insecurity situation in the region, Buhari yesterday departed Abuja for N’Djamena, Chad, to preside over the Summit of Heads of States and Governments of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC). But Mohammed insisted yesterday that the federal government is winning the war against Boko Haram. ‘’Our position that the federal government had decimated Boko Haram has not changed; we are winning the war,’’ the minister stated while briefing the senior journalists in Abuja. The retaining of the service chiefs, in spite of attaining their retirement age, over a year ago, has continued to generate mixed feelings among members of the public. While an insider explained their retention was for strategic security reasons, some groups, including serving military officers, said the decision had affected professionalism in the military. However, presidency source told THISDAY in Abuja yesterday that the president is seriously considering firing the service chiefs, suspecting that their lack of proper coordination and distrust among themselves might have compounded the worsening security situation in the North-east, created by the deadly Boko Haram group. At several meetings with the service chiefs recently, the president was said to have reprimanded them for

lack of proper coordination among them in the on-going war against the terrorist group in the North-east, wondering why they have allowed their personal interests and ego to affect their thorough prosecution of the current war against terror, which led to the killing of dozens of troops in Metele, in Borno State recently. “The president is aware of these challenges created by lack of proper coordination among the service chiefs in prosecuting the war against the insurgency in the North-east. ‘’His recent comments and body language have suggested that he will take drastic measures any moment to ensure that these challenges are solved once and for all. ‘’And if the president believes the retaining of the service chiefs has become a problem in the war against Boko Haram, he will not hesitate to act’’, a senior security personnel in the presidency told THISDAY. Worried by the deteriorating security challenges in the country, several groups, including the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere; the Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo; the South-South Leaders Forum and the Coalition of United Political Parties, have called on the president to immediately sack the nation’s service chiefs. The groups in different statements have raised the alarm over the rise in Boko Haram attacks in the Northeast, describing the recent killing of some soldiers in Metele, in Borno State as a national disgrace. They also cautioned Buhari against what they called politicisation of the military and the police, alleging that Boko Haram is holding on to territories in the region. But, speaking on security on Thursday in Abuja, Mohammed insisted that

despite the recent setbacks brought about by attacks on the military, the Boko Haram insurgents had been largely decimated. He claimed that when they took over in 2015, Boko Haram was active in 10 states, including the FCT, where they chose where and when to attack. The Minister added, ‘’I think we need to put the issues in proper context. And I still say that despite the setback that was witnessed last week, our position that we had decimated Boko Haram is still valid. You need to know where we were in 2015 and where we are today in terms of security. ‘’Many of you were in Abuja pre- 2015 and you knew how even unsafe Abuja was. All of us were in Nigeria pre-2015 and we knew that Boko Haram was active in at least 10 states of the federation where they chose where and when to act. ‘’In 2015 when we came in, 20 out of 27 Local Government Areas in Borno State alone were under the occupation of Boko Haram. I am glad that a few of my colleagues followed us to Bama on the 5th of December 2015, and they saw what the situation was. ‘’We were in Maiduguri, Bama, Kauri and Konduga. And I still remember that in the 17-kilometre road between Maiduguri and Bama, there was no single vehicular traffic on the road.’’ He further explained that of the 6,000 plus structures in Bama, none was standing, saying they were all destroyed by Boko Haram. He said, “Actually, Boko Haram was not just occupying, they were in government in most parts of Borno State and four local governments in Yobe, where they held court, they hoisted their flags, they collected taxes, they deposed emirs and the Judiciary.

2019: ATIKU EXUDES CONFIDENCE, PREDICTS PDP WIN, PROMISES FISCAL TRANSPARENCY Bafarawa. Others include, Peter Odili, Sule Lamido, Gombe State Governor, Ibrahim Dankwambo, Ayo Fayose, Walid Jibril, Achike Udenwa, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, among others. Electoral Bill Receiving Due Attention, Says Presidency Meanwhile, the presidency yesterday assured Nigerians

that the amendments to the Electoral Act 2010 transmitted to the president for assent by the National Assembly on November 7 was receiving due attention. Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Ita Enang, said the bill is before Buhari for necessary action.

He said government appreciates the concern of the citizenry on the need for the president to assent to the bill. Commenting on the call by former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) president, Mr. Olisa Agbakoba, on the president to without further delay endorse the bill, Enang said the frontline lawyer by the call was exercising his right as a

citizen of the country. He said, "We appreciate the activism of the senior lawyer, which is within his right as a citizen and conscience of the nation." Agbakoba, the Convener of Nigeria Intervention Movement, NIM, had in a two- page letter to Buhari on Wednesday asked the president to endorse the bill as a show of his commitment

to transparent electoral process. He expressed concern that the bill was yet to be signed into law less than three months to the general election. Agbakoba, therefore, stressed the need for Buhari to sign the bill without any further delay and cited diverse implications his refusal to endorse it would have on the capacity of the Independent National Electoral

Commission (INEC) to conduct credible and transparent elections. Buhari had thrice this year refused assent to the bill, forcing the National Assembly to rework the bill before transmitting a cleaner copy to the executive earlier this month for the president's assent, which would lapse by December 6.

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NEWS

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

2019: Abdulsalami-led Committee Lists Conditions for Peaceful Poll Parties to sign peace accord December 11 Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The National Peace Committee headed by a former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), yesterday listed conditions for peaceful elections in 2019 and urged political parties to adhere to issue-based campaigns. The committee and the political parties have also agreed to adopt the 2015 code of conduct model to ensure peaceful and credible conduct of the general elections. As a means to consolidate on the peace efforts, the committee said political parties would meet on December 11 to formally sign a peace agreement for the conduct of the elections. While presenting the resolutions of the peace committee at a meeting held with political parties yesterday in Abuja, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, His Grace Hassan Kukah, said the parties have resolved to adopt the same principles that guided the

“successful” 2015 elections as a template for ensuring that all stakeholders commit themselves to peaceful election in 2019. He said the committee and political parties discussed extensively on the need to ensure that politicians create a favourable and conducive environment for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections in 2019. The cleric said: “Furthermore, we discussed the theme of trust as a key ingredient in the conduct of our affairs. “In the end, we have resolved to adopt the same principles that guided the very successful 2015 elections, and therefore commit ourselves to run issue-based campaigns at national, state and local government levels. “In this, we pledge to refrain from campaigns that will involve religious incitement, ethnic or tribal profiling, both by ourselves and by all agents acting in our names.” As part of the efforts to ensure peaceful 2019 elections,

the committee said political parties and politicians must “refrain from making or sponsoring public statements, pronouncements, declarations or speeches that have the capacity to incite or cause violence, before, during, and after the elections”. The committee said the parties are also expected to commit themselves to monitoring the adherence to the provisions of the peace accord and to support institutions of

government and the security agencies to act and be seen to act with impartiality. Under the initiative, the committee said the political parties and politicians are to forcefully and publicly speak out against provocative utterances, and oppose all acts of electoral violence whether perpetuated by supporters or opponents. Addressing the chairmen and secretaries of political parties who attended the meeting, Abdusalami admonished them

to help end election violence and the growing practice of hate speech. According to him, the committee wants a repeat of the 2015 experience with regard to the conduct exhibited by political parties so that 2019 will be peaceful. He enjoined political parties and their presidential candidates to run issue-based campaigns. On his part, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams

Oshiomhole, said the party is very concerned about action of some religious leaders who engaged in acts of hate speech and partisanship. “It is unhelpful to turn places of worship into political campaign platforms. “Politicians should campaign to Nigerians on the basis of what they stand for and not using religious organisations for campaign purposes, that would not help

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NNPC Accuses N’Assembly of Persecution Chineme Okafor and Amaka Mozie in Abuja The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), has accused the National Assembly of persecution, alleging that despite being directed by the lawmakers to clear the 2017 protracted petrol queue within two weeks, the same parliament suddenly turned round to hound it for obeying the said instruction. Claiming it was the most misunderstood agency of the federal government, the corporation stated that at the heat of the protracted petrol scarcity, it got a directive from the parliament to end the petrol queues across the country, adding that the lawmakers thereafter picked holes in its actions. Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the public bid opening for NNPC’s insurance contractors in Abuja, the Group Managing Director of the corporation, Dr. Maikanti Baru, claimed that the NNPC remains the most transparent agency of government in Nigeria presently. He noted that the corporation had been consistently misunderstood by Nigerians, adding that despite the misconception, it has so far continued to implement the publication of its monthly financial and operations report. “I think NNPC is the most misunderstood. We are patient; we will explain, we will do that not only to the general public, but also to the National Assembly. You know what is happening now: if at the time that we have no fuel, the National Assembly was on our neck and they said they

gave us two weeks to clear fuel queues, we did what was right, we cleared fuel queues. “Now that they are in the comfort of driving and feeling comfortable, then they now said that you violated processes in the process of removing these queues,” he said. Baru explained: “I think it’s quite unfair because the way that people perceive NNPC requires that they can give us the benefit of the doubt and ask us what the issue is and we are always ready to explain. “We are very transparent and we do our work in the best way, with accountability. In spite of the fact we are a government organisation, we are also very commercially-focused. “In terms of transparency and accountability, I can guarantee you that there is no other government agency that is more open than us. We are the first government agency and maybe the only one, that is still publishing its accounts on monthly basis and unfailingly; and everyone can look at that. That is the utmost point of transparency. “The same thing with our processes; we are always open. We have done bid openings here for crude oil contracts - for off-takers; we have done it for shipping; just now we are doing for insurance. We are opening all our bids to the international media and general public. And of course, as you witnessed now, it is live and we have done that in front of all that are bidding. “So far, we have not witnessed any point where any person has said that the tender is tampered and we opened the bid immediately after the bid opening closure time,” he said.

SECURITY IN THEIR MINDS...

L-R: President Muhammadu Buhari; Chadian President, Idris Deby Itno, and President of Niger Republic, Mahamadou Issoufou, at the Extraordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Lake Chad Basin on Security, held in N’Djamena, Chad... yesterday

Naira Depreciates to N368/$1, CBN Takes Fresh Measure to Maintain Stability Obinna Chima The naira depreciated against the United States dollar by N6 on the parallel market yesterday, as it closed at N368/$, its lowest level in more than a year, due to increased demand for the greenback as the Yuletide season draws closer. However, as part of the efforts to address the rising demand for the dollar, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday announced special intervention of foreign exchange sales to Bureau De Change (BDC) operators. In a letter to the currency dealers dated November 29, the apex bank explained that: “With the approach of the yuletide season and the resultant

increase in demand for personal travel allowance, the CBN has in addition to the existing market days (Monday, Wednesday and Friday), introduced a special intervention day of every Thursday $15,000 per BDC commencing on Thursday, December 6, 2018. “Consequently, all BDCs should note that the cut-off time for receiving naira deposits into their respective bank accounts for the Thursday’s special intervention shall be 10 a.m on the Thursday. “All operators are hereby advised to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the extant regulations on the disbursement of forex cash to their respective customers as any case of infraction will be appropriately sanctioned.”

Meanwhile, the naira had closed at N362 to a dollar the previous day. Some currency dealers however attributed the development to the activities of speculators in the market who were said to be hoarding the US dollar. But speaking in a telephone chat with THISDAY last night, the President of the Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), Alhaji Aminu Gwadabe, who confirmed the naira depreciation on the parallel market, warned his members to desist from any form of unethical practice in the market. “You know, some people are buying the in expectation that the naira will fall. But I can assure you that ABCON and

the Central Bank of Nigeria are working closely to ensure that the stability in the market for about two years now is sustained,” Gwadabe said. THISDAY last week reported that the combination of tightening global financing conditions, which has resulted to capital outflows in the country, the elevated global risk aversion, 2019 election uncertainties and high services payments were likely to put pressure on the naira. Analysts at CSL Stockbrokers Limited and the Financial Derivatives Company Limited (FDC), had stated this in two separate reports. They had also pointed out that capital repatriation by foreign investors was also expected to heighten dollar demand.

House Halts Teleology’s Takeover of 9mobile Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja The House of Representatives has directed the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) to stop Teleology Holdings Limited from assuming ownership of Etisalat, now known as 9mobile. The recommendation came Wednesday after the House of Representatives Committee on Telecommunications questioned the Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the

NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, on the sale of 9mobile to Teleology without informing the National Assembly. The committee chairman, Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fijabi, had contended that the committee must be carried along in the sale, take-over or transfer of license of 9mobile, but contrary to that, the members said they were reading on the pages of newspapers that Teleology had taken over 9mobile.

He said: “We as a committee do not know anybody called Teleology because they have never appeared before this committee. I believe NCC should know whoever Teleology is and be able to help us to call them.” The NCC also denied knowledge of the sale of 9mobile to Teleology, because according to Danbatta, NCC is yet to issue a new operational license to Teleology. “No licence has been

transferred. I don’t know if this was reported in the news you read. But the licence in the possession of EMTS, which traded in the past as Etisalat and later, with the approval of the NCC, as 9mobile, is still with EMTS,” Danbatta said. The committee has however invited Teleology to appear before it and Danbatta gave assurances to the committee that he would extend their invitation to Teleology.

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Resign Now, PDP Tells INEC Chairman, IG The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus, yesterday called on the Chairman of the Independent National

Electoral Commission, Prof. Yakubu Mahmoud, to resign over his alleged inability to conduct free, fair and credible election.

NPA Denies Not Remitting N117bn Operating Surplus Eromosele Abiodun The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has described as fictitious, the allegation that it failed to remit the sum of N177 billion operating surplus from its 2017 revenue to the Consolidated Federation Account. The allegation emanated from a motion at the Plenary of the Senate on November 28, 2018. While stressing that the allegation is without foundation, the NPA said, “The fact of the situation are as follows: Total revenue generated by the Authority in the year 2017 stood at N303.9 billion; total expenditure (inclusive of recurrent and capital) amounted to N205.8 billion. Of the N303.9 billion generated revenue, the sum of N60.12 billion represents uncollectable revenue from concessionaires attributed to clauses in the concession agreements, which the authority is currently reviewing.” It added, “Consequently, the operating surplus for the authority in 2017 was the sum of N38 billion. Therefore, the sum of N30.4 billion, which represents 80 per cent of the operating surplus that the

Authority is required to remit to the CRF in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007, has been duly paid into the Consolidated Revenue Fund by the Authority with receipt of payment already issued by the office of the AccountantGeneral of the Federation.” These computations, it added, arise from the authority’s management account pending the conclusion of the audit of the 2017 financial statement, which is ongoing. “It is pertinent to also note that the Authority has already remitted the sum of N11.3 billion for 2018 CRF contribution into the Consolidated Revenue Fund with the use of Authority’s management account ahead of auditing for 2018. The Authority wishes to state its readiness to present all documents needed to provide clarification to the Senate Committee on Marine Transport and the Senate. “On a final note, while we appreciate the constitutional oversight role of distinguished senators on the operations of the NPA, we suggest greater restraint on issues that deal with the integrity of national institutions even as we assure of our respect for the Senate, “it stated.

Alleged N15bn Fraud: Appeal Court Reverses Tambuwal’s Pardon Alex Enumah in Abuja A five-man panel of the Court of Appeal in Sokoto has in two separate appeals, voided the state pardon granted some former officials of the state who were prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Sokoto State High Court. The court which voided the state pardon granted the defendants, Alhaji Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi (former SSG) and Isa Sadiq Achida, also ordered for their fresh trial in the alleged N15billion fraud proffered against them as well as a former Governor of the state, Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa. Delivering the lead judgments in the two appeals filed by the EFCC against Dingyadi and Achida, both Justices Hannatu Sankey and Ndukwe-Anyawu held that the governor’s pardon was invalid since the accused persons were still undergoing trial. Consequently, the court set aside the instrument

of pardon as well as the discharge of the accused persons by the trial court. A statement issued by the acting Head of Media and Publicity EFCC, Tony Orilade, stated that the Court of Appeal in the judgment ordered that the two accused persons be tried by another judge of the state High Court other than Justice Bello Abbass who handled the initial trial. A state High Court presided over by Justice Bello Abbas delivered a ruling which discharged them alongside three others, Alhaji Tukur Alkali, Bello Isah and Alhaji Halilu Modachi. Their discharge was sequel to a motion filed by the accused persons seeking to be discharged from further criminal proceedings based on a pardon granted them by the state Governor, Tambuwal. Dissatisfied with the ruling of the lower court, the EFCC approached the court of appeal in Sokoto praying that the ruling of the lower court be set aside.

He also called on the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Idris Ibrahim, to resign, as he alleged that police officers were being used to undermine the democratic process. He spoke during the 83rd PDP National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja. Secondus said, “We want to do this advance warning that we are lovers of democracy and peace.

“We want the peace of our nation; so, let them note all they have done, even in the case of Kwara and Bauchi States, where we warned clearly that they announced different results. “That will no longer be acceptable. We therefore call on the INEC leadership headed by Yakubu to quietly resign because he does not have strong will and courage to

conduct free and fair election. He should resign. “We also call on the IG to resign and go because I have never witnessed in the history of our country, from the First Republic even in the military regime, we have never seen this kind of act and the way and manner the police have been used by the government of APC against the people. “Our people are being

killed on a daily basis and as I speak with you, leaders of PDP have been earmarked to be murdered and killed. “The country will rise to defend the values of our founding fathers, and of our democracy. “We must defend. We are not afraid. If you want a nation to be rescued from hunger, killings, we must be ready.”

CELEBRATING CULTURE…

President of Tamil Sangam, A. Panner Selva Elvis (centre), and members of Tamil Sangam Committee during the Tamil Sangam Abuja 2018 Diwali Festival of Lights organised by Tamil Sangam Abuja Cultural Association in Abuja…recently

Rivers Govt Kicks as Army Stops Training of Neighbourhood Safety Corps’Applicants Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt Rivers State Government and the Nigerian Army are at loggerhead following the disruption of the training of applicants into the state Neighbourhood Safety Corps Agency at the state NYSC Orientation Camp, Nonwa in Tai Local Government Area of state yesterday by the Nigerian army. While the state government described the army as a political weapon against defenceless Nigerians and warned it to steer clear of the state politics, the 6 Division of the Nigerian army described the Corps as “an illegal militia training camp” and subsequently shut it down for preliminary investigations. Reacting to the incident, the state Governor, Nyesom Wike, declared that the Nigerian army has been transformed into a political weapon that has abandoned its security

responsibilities. He stated that the disruption of the training of the state Neighbourhood Safety Corps Agency training programme by the Nigerian army is the worst act of irresponsibility, aimed at instigating insecurity in the state. Wike stated this yesterday at Odiokwu, Ahoada West Local Government Area of the state, where he flagged off the construction of a Model Primary Healthcare Centre, Odiokwu Internal roads, Odiokwu-Anwuigboko and Odiokwu-Oyigbo roads. “The army is not concerned about the killing of soldiers in Borno State. They are only interested in creating insecurity in Rivers State. If you don’t want Rivers State to be safe, then Nigeria will not be safe. They want to use their guns against us,” he said. The governor noted that Zamfara and Kogi States have vigilante outfits which were

inaugurated by the Nigerian army and the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government, wondering why the Nigerian army would disrupt a legal training exercise. “Zamfara and Kogi States have vigilante groups. They inaugurated them and the Chief of Army Staff did nothing. The House of Assembly passed a law approving the Rivers State Neighbourhood Safety Corps Agency. The Chief of Army did not challenge the law in court, but today, he sent troops to invade the training camp,” Wike said. The governor accused the Nigerian army of stoking insecurity in order to attract huge security votes. According to him, “The army is the agency causing insecurity mainly to attract more security votes in the state. They collected $1 billion from our excess crude account yet our soldiers were

killed. “All they are doing is to intimidate people for political reasons. When you fight a state blessed by God, you will crumble. Nobody can intimidate us in Rivers State.” Wike explained that the state government worked with the police, the Department of State Security (DSS) and other federal agencies to ensure that only lawabiding citizens were recruited by the state Safety Corps Agency. “We did not hire boys for political reasons. This has been a transparent process, and that is why the personnel are trained at the NYSC Orientation Camp at Nonwa. “We involved the police and the DSS to ensure that the trainees are profiled for the good of the society. The main aim of this agency is to assist the security agencies with intelligence and information since there is a lacuna in this regard,” he said.

2019: Enugu PDP Embarks on Seven-day Prayers, Fasting for Violence-free Elections Ahead of the commencement of campaigns for the governorship and House of Assembly elections in the country, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Organisation in Enugu State, has called on the people of the state to join the party to observe one week of prayers and fasting, “for peaceful, transparent and violence-free elections in 2019,

which Enugu State is known for”. Briefing journalists at the campaign office in Enugu, the Director-General of the Organisation, Dr. Charles Egumgbe, disclosed that the praying and fasting exercise will commence on December 1 and end on December 7. Egumgbe, who was accompanied by the Secretary

of the Campaign Organisation, Chief Ikeje Asogwa, stated that the decision was “in keeping with our tradition of entrusting the affairs of the state to the hands of God”. He also urged the people of the state “to pray for issue-based, smooth and successful campaigns in the state” and equally thanked them for their unceasing prayers,

support, goodwill and solidarity. “We therefore, reassure the good people of Enugu State that the PDP-led government will, through God’s grace, continue to maintain the tempo of peace and security in the state for them to enjoy more dividends as the true heroes of our democracy”, the Director-General said.

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COMMENT

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

BACK IN BUSINESS

The Buhari administration has resurrected interest in agriculture, particularly among small holder farmers, writes Godspower Akpude

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resident Muhammadu Buhari has hordes of fanatical followers. He has also fanatical aides, one of whom is his aide on social media, Lauretta Onochie. Thus, at every opportunity, Onochie takes to the social media to list what her principal achieved in various sectors. It was no wonder that recently, when the Alhaji Atiku Abubakar Campaign Organisation alleged non-performance on the part of President Buhari, she was quick to come out with another long list contained in a statement, where she enumerated 64 achievements of the government in the agricultural sector. As a foundation for all other things done in the sector, first, she noted that the anti-corruption drive of President Buhari has blocked exogenous leakages in the agricultural sector to encourage, empower, and enhance the locally made farm produce thereby increasing Nigeria’s internally generated revenue (IGR) index and foreign exchange capacity as well as reserve to over $45bn in cash and bonds. According to her, the home grown feeding programme, designed to end importation and market monopoly of farm produce that could be grown here in Nigeria, is a pilot vehicle to sustainable economic, agricultural, academic and job creation across the length and breadth of the nation. Other very important developments she noted included the inauguration of the Standing Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee on Zero-Reject of Agricultural Commodities and Produce/Non-oil Exports in Nigeria. Nigeria benefited from 13.1billion Euros honeybee project and commencement of steps to improve the standards of Nigeria’s agricultural exports to align with global standards due to the rejection of our produce at the EU border controls by developing standards and quality control measures. “Under President Buhari administration, at the end of 2016, agricultural goods as share of total trade got N212.73bn and 4.02 per cent and agricultural goods exports were 2.7 per cent higher in the fourth quarter 2016 than third quarter 2016. Sesame seeds contributed N6.46billion to agricultural product exports in the fourth quarter of 2016. In 2017, and first, second and third quarters of 2018, the agricultural sector has continued to contribute to Nigeria’s GDP. “In the fourth quarter of 2016, frozen shrimps and prawns chipped in N4.4billion to agricultural product exports under PMB’s administration; flour and meals of soya beans contributed N2.59bn to agricultural product exports and cashew nuts in shell contributed N0.95billion to agricultural product exports. Crude palm kernel accounted for N0.62 billion of the total agricultural exports in the fourth quarter of 2016,� Onochie said. She is optimistic the agricultural universities coordinating agency is being revitalised as stipulated in the enabling act, and that it would work closely with the Nigerian University Commission and development partners to re-focus the universities of agriculture in the country to continue to boost the sector. In her view, the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises (LIFE)

SESAME SEEDS CONTRIBUTED N6.46BN TO AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT EXPORTS IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 2016. IN 2017, AND FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD QUARTERS OF 2018, THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR HAS CONTINUED TO CONTRIBUTE TO NIGERIA’S GDP

programme initiated by the Buhari administration to bring life back into rural communities through the empowerment of youth, women and other vulnerable groups across the country would actualise its mandate and further help in agricultural production. Noting that through the Anchor Borrower’s Programme (ABP), the Buhari administration has been providing money for dry and wet season farming in many states, she said the “Anchor Borrowers’ Programme is an intervention of the administration aimed at fasttracking access of rural farmers to finance productivity.� The ABP of the Central Bank of Nigeria under the Buhari-led administration has made available N82billion in funding to 350,000 farmers of rice, wheat, maize, cotton, cassava, poultry, soy beans and groundnut who have cultivated about 400,000 hectares of land. There has also been provision of agricultural credit for financing the production of rice, wheat, ginger, maize and soybeans in Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Kano, Enugu, Benue, Zamfara, Anambra and Kwara States. The administration has established 40 large scale rice processing plants and 18 high quality cassava flour (HQCGF) plants with a stake commitment of China EXIM (85 per cent) and Nigeria Bank of Industry (BoI) (15 per cent) through concessional credit facilities of US$383,140,375.60 for the rice mills and US$143,722,202.40 for the HQCF plants. Added to that, through the Ministry of Agriculture, the government is distributing rice mills of 10 tonnes per day capacity, 20 tonnes a day, 40 tonness a day, 50 tonness and a few 100 tonnes. This is to collectively increase the capacity for rice milling a day nationwide and it is expected to close the gap between paddy availability and mills to process it. “Under President Buhari, the Bank of Agriculture (BOA) has been strengthened for improved delivery of services through consolidation and recapitalisation in collaboration with the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) to ensure loan disbursement at a single digit interest regime in the agricultural sector as obtainable in developed and emerging economies. “The President Buhari administration has approved the restructuring, re-capitalising and repositioning of the Bank of Agriculture and has secured the approval of a grant of $1.1 million from the African Development Bank for the restructuring of the Bank of Agriculture, aimed at staff training to strengthen service delivery. “Now, the government is embarking on National Soil Map Data, and the aim is to use soil-specific fertiliser formulations and application in prescribed dosages based on soil types, and the government has signed an agreement with Morocco to supply fertilizer, raw materials on concessionary terms to boost local blending that will facilitate the production of soil and crop-specific fertilisers,� she said. Akpude wrote from Warri, Delta State

A LETTER TO IKEOGU

Azu Ishiekwene pays tribute to Ikeogu Oke, journalist and award-winning poet, at age 51

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didn’t want to write this week. It wasn’t writer’s block or the occasional frustration from sounding like a broken record. It was not the feeling of speaking to the Nigeria wall, either.

Nothing of the sort. It was the call, Ikeogu. The call from your sister, Ada, on Saturday night. The call shattered me and left me bereft. I had not spoken with Ada since she returned to Aba from Abuja after she and your wife, Nneoma, took turns to nurse you before and after your return from the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital in October. When Ada first called on Saturday, I missed it. For some inexplicable reason, my mind began to roam as I dialed back. I thought of that encounter on September 12 at the teaching hospital. You had just been operated upon the previous day and I came to Ile-Ife to see you with my friend, Niyi. Ada met us at the entrance of the emergency ward. She looked exhausted but relieved. She said your surgery had gone well, but the anxiety leading up to it and the errands to buy this or that medication outside the hospital in a place where she was a stranger was clearly taking a toll. Then she led us upstairs to the Intensive Care Unit to see you. The medical staff demurred, but after explaining that we had come all the way from Lagos, they relented but said Niyi and I could not enter the ward together. It had to be one at a time, and brief. I donned the overall and slipped into a pair of special footwear. Then I braced myself, parted the curtains and entered the ward. There you were, lying right in front of me yet I was too dazed too see. Was this you, Ikeogu? You were wired by the hands and the sides, with electronic cables that looked like the strings of the Lilliputians in Gulliver’s Travels. A few of the cables were connected to monitors at the top of your bed. For a moment that seemed like eternity, the only sound in the ward was the sound of the monitor:

beep, beep, beep. Your hands were white, and your forehead had receded. You had lost weight beyond recognition. Beep, beep, beep. Your eyes were closed, and I couldn’t make out what kind of sleep this was. I asked the nurse if I could call you. She said I could. Ikeogu! You stirred and opened your eyes, slowly. I was smitten with goose pimples. Beep, beep, beep. I looked at Ada who had entered the ward without my knowing, and looked at the yellow, jaundiced stare in your eyes. Somehow, you recognised me and called my name, but it sounded like an echo from another place. Ikeogu!, I repeated, and wept. Ada escorted me out of the ward. For a moment it seemed she would be nursing two patients at once. She said I should not cry and that the doctors had told her the worst was over. The surgery, she had been told, was successful. All we needed to do now, was pray for your speedy recovery. I returned to Lagos with mixed feelings, especially after what Niyi, a medical doctor of over 25 years, told me on our way back. You remember Niyi? Of course, I’m sure you do, Ikeogu. He was the one you spoke with at length after your prognosis and referral from the Asokoro District Hospital, Abuja, before you were admitted in OAUTH, Ile-Ife on September 8. He said he was sure the surgery was “palliative� but promised to speak with the doctors later to get a clearer sense of the post-surgery report. “Pancreatic cancer,� Niyi said, “is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer. Surgery is, at best, palliative.� The rest of the three and a half hours return journey from Ile-Ife to Lagos was a blur. But the next day, you called. Your voice was weak but calm. You admonished me against despairing and said from what the doctors told you, the cancer had not spread. You spoke about the large amount of bile that was drained from your system and said you never had a better fighting chance for recovery and survival.

It was not the first time you would express this hope, welling up from your irrepressible spirit. I recall that at the time you were referred to Ife in August, you told me at the Asokoro District Hospital in Abuja that at the final review before the surgery was supposed to commence, the doctors there decided it was best to refer you to Ile-Ife. You asked why, and was told that there was a patient with similar prognosis who was referred and who survived after the surgery. Then you said, Ikeogu, and I’ll never forget: “If there is a second person who will survive it, I’ll be the one; and if no one had survived it before, I’ll be the first.� According to a foundation dedicated to pancreatic cancer research, Hirshberg Foundation on its website http://www.pancreatic.org, pancreatic cancer survival rates have been improving from decade to decade, but the disease is considered largely incurable. The one-year survival rates, according to the American Cancer Society for all stages of pancreatic cancer combined, is 20 per cent, and the five-year survival rate is 7 per cent. Scientists say that the low survival rates are attributable to the fact that fewer than 20 per cent of patients’ tumours are confined to the pancreas at the time of diagnosis, in most cases the malignancy has already progressed to the point where surgical removal is impossible. The causes are unknown, but the risk factors are largely genetic. I’m sure you knew these – and even more. I remember you told me that within the first few weeks after the diagnosis this year, you read up and mastered the subject as well as any layman can. Your hope of recovery and survival was not based on ignorance; it was based on the transcendence of mind over matter. It was based on that stubborn, determined hope that one year after you were announced winner of the NLNG Prize for Literature 2017, your sun was only just rising and though the temporary cloud of pancreatic cancer may overshadow it, the cloud will soon pass. Yet, my anxiety resurfaced in a way that I could not bring myself to share with you before Saturday. Two weeks after your surgery, the Pro-chancellor of OAU, Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, who had played a big

role in arranging your transfer to Ife called me and repeated what Niyi said on that trip back to Lagos. If anyone told you, I will never know, but I never sensed it till the end. It was just not in your warrior spirit to accept defeat or invite sympathy. Ikeogu, I remember what you said at each deadline post-surgery, when I didn’t think I should bother you with reviewing my weekly articles. “Azu, I didn’t have brain surgery. My mind is still strong and active. Please send your article to me!� And I did, even till Tuesday, a few days before Ada called and gave me the news. Did you know the end was near, so near? I ask because in the days after your surgery and discharge back to your home in Abuja, you were twice as prolific as I have known you to be since July 7, 2015 when our paths crossed at the that Sundiapost lecture in Bayelsa House, Abuja. It was post-surgery, three weeks ago, in fact, that you wrote a 2126-word application to the Woodrow Wilson Centre for the 2018 Fellowship for scholars, journalists and public intellectuals. Your piece, entitled, “Positive hip-hop and behavioural improvement in contemporary America,� was a lucid slice of the Heresiad, your epic book of poetry. But who shall we send if your entry wins? Who will go for us? Your life was an open book. You lived for virtue and the arts, investing your talent, passion and humanity in others without holding anything back. I’m a beneficiary. And I can speak of a few – old and young – who would say the same, in words that convey greater depth and meaning than I can ever conceive. J.P. Clark, Wale Okediran, Femi Adesina, Garbadeen Muhammed, Akeem Soboyede – and even your new acquaintance, Louis Odion. It’s a week when I should not write, but be silent. But something tells me you would have wished otherwise. Goodnight, Ikeogu! Ishiekwene is the Managing Director/Editor-InChief of The Interview and member of the board of the Global Editors Network

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EDITORIAL The Scarcity Of Clean Water The declaration of emergency on water and sanitation is in order

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hat no fewer than 46 million Nigerians use the open ďŹ elds, bushes and bodies of water as convenience is bad enough. What is worse is that even in supposedly modern cities like the federal capital territory, Abuja, it is now becoming increasingly common to see people defecating in the open. That reality was underscored recently by President Muhammadu Buhari while declaring a state of emergency on water supply, sanitation and hygiene in the country. “Access to piped water services which was 32 per cent in 1990 has declined to 7 per cent in 2015; access to improved sanitation has also decreased from 38 per cent in 1990 to 29 per cent in 2015. Our country now ranks number two in the global rating on open defecation as about 25 per cent of our population are practicing open defecation,â€? the president said. However, it is our hope that this is not another cynical measure to create an impression of doing something while the problem persists. We recall that in January 2011, former President Goodluck Jonathan launched a similar water road map by announcing some “quick measures to accelerate water coverageâ€?. He also IN MANY OF OUR SOreleased intervention CALLED MODERN funds for some projects: drilling of CITIES, MANY PEOPLE motorised borehole USE THE OUTDOORS in each of the 109 AS BATHROOMS AND senatorial districts TOILETS of the country, rehabilitation of 1000 hand pump boreholes in 18 states and installation of some special treatment plants, and completing all abandoned water projects. Sadly, there were no results to justify the expenditure. Given acute water scarcity, it is therefore no surprise that sanitation is a major challenge in the country. The evidence is everywhere. The country is one huge ďŹ eld, where people defecate, without shame, and without putting into consideration the impact of their action on the health of others. In many rural communities, people still build houses

Letters to the Editor

without provision for toilets, or as the case may be, latrines where waste can be emptied without others coming in contact with it. In the urban centres, the issue is pervasive.

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T H I S DAY EDITOR

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TO OUR READERS Letters in response to speciďŹ c publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (9501000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive.com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer.

RE: MOJ AND ITS ADR MECHANISM

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n November 18, 2018 the attention of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice was drawn to the above titled publication in the Letter to the Editor page of your reputable media platform, signed by one Mr. Sam Nwokoro. In the publication, Mr. Nwokoro raised a number of concerns allegedly emanating from his interface with a directorate of the Ministry, which he failed to mention in his letter. While it is a practice at the Lagos State Ministry of Justice to be receptive of public criticism and concerns because they serve as an important part of evaluation mechanism which helps the Ministry, to constantly fine-tune and improve on its service delivery to the general public we are mandated and have responsibility to serve. It is however necessary, to use this opportunity to correct the erroneous allegations of Mr Nwokoro by reassuring members of the public that, the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, the foremost Law Chambers in Nigeria, has committed and motivated Counsel and Staff, with remarkable track record of ethical professional conduct. Which is captured in our motto: “Service with Integrity� Facts of the matter: From our findings, the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights, under the Ministry received from Mr. Sam Nwokoro a petition titled, “Enforcement of My Rights� dated 3rd February 2018. Subsequently, the petitioner was formally invited to a meeting on 8th February 2018, which he attended and where he was given audience to fully discuss the content of his petition. Thereafter, in line with Standard mediation procedure a

n many of our so-called modern cities, many people use the outdoors as bathrooms and toilets. Many walkways and nearby bushes reek of urine and decaying faecal matters. Some of university communities also spread intense odour as many students, in the absence of clean toilets in the hostels, use any available space as convenience. And experts have consistently warned that when large numbers of people are defecating outdoors, it’s extremely difďŹ cult to avoid ingesting human waste, either because it’s entered the food or water supplies or because it has been spread by ies and dust. In a recent report entitled “High and Dry: Climate Change, Water and the Economyâ€?, the World Bank said: “Water scarcity, exacerbated by climate change, could cost some regions up to six per cent of their GDP, spur migration and spark conict.â€? The report claimed that climate-driven water scarcity could hit economic growth by up to six per cent in some regions and that the combined effects of growing populations, rising incomes and expanding cities would see demand for water rising exponentially, “while supply becomes more erratic and uncertain.â€? What makes the report even more compelling for the Nigerian authorities is that it contains a serious warning that acute water shortage could deepen the clash between farmers and herdsmen in Nigeria. “Food price spikes caused by droughts can iname latent conicts and drive migration. Where economic growth is impacted by rainfall, episodes of droughts and oods have generated waves of migration and spikes in violence within countries,â€? it said. We therefore agree with President Buhari that the declaration of emergency on water and sanitation has become imperative to reduce the highprevalence of water-borne diseases in different parts of the country, which has caused preventable deaths. But it should not end there.

letter of invitation dated 8th February 2018 was dispatched to the other party (Acclaim Communications Limited), which failed to honour that invitation and subsequent one sent on 19th February 2018. Guided by the rules of mediation, which allows only for voluntary participation of parties in the mediation process. The Petitioner, Mr. Sam Nwokoro was then advised that his only other option was that, the matter be subsequently taken by the Directorate to the National Industrial Court to seek Legal redress on his behalf. However, for the directorate to commence such action, it requested from the Petitioner, all documentary evidence that could link him and Acclaim Communications Limited on his claims. Sadly, as I write, it is pertinent to note that, Mr. Sam Nwokoro, the petitioner, has yet to provide the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights any such documentary evidence to that effect. The last correspondence received from the Petitioner, dated 13th September 2018 was an unethical request insisting that the Directorate give him a letter to take to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) to help him recover his wages. This unethical request was turned down. It is obvious from the facts of the matter, that the petitioner, Mr. Sam Nwokoro was totally misinformed about proper mediation procedure. While I commend the effort of THISDAY newspaper in drawing the attention of the Ministry to his letter, I count on you to give our response the same prominence. Kayode Oyekanmi, k.oyekanmi@lagosministryofjustice. org

NIGERIA AND FALSE SENSE OF UNITY

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he Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is righteously indignant. Ms. Oby Ezekwesili is righteously fuming, too. All for good reason, and all because of the skewed logic of “national unity� that is the fabric of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Nigerian Army (NA). This false sense of unity stipulates that members of the corps in either cases must, as a rule, serve in locales far removed from their places of origin so as to promote a sense of national cohesion. Oh, surely, that was the reason my father served the NA in such places as Kwale, Ubiaja, Uromi, Benin, Warri, and finally Minna. This logic only serve its purpose best at times of peace and, it is regrettably thrown on its head and severely tested in times of crises; Nigeria is presently experiencing such crisissituation in the shape of the Boko Haram terrorism and herein lies the problem for some segments of the country. CAN wants all service chiefs sacked and Ms. Ezekwesili wants the names of those who recently fell at the hands of Boko Haram published. I am sure the Ministry of Defence would not heed Oby’s call because then it would be correlated that the Christian South pays a disproportionately high casualty price than the Muslim North whose land is being overrun by Boko Haram. If anyone checks out the posting schedule of the NA officer corps to “safe and plush� positions in the country, they are usually staffed by officers with names such as Grema, Bulama, Biu, Modu, Abba-Gana, Shetimma, Bura-this, Bura-that, etc.; these are all names associated with the Borno-Yobe axis and adjoining states of the Northwest. Is it really smart that these officers are duly sequestered in safety in the Christian South whereas soldiers from the other regions are futilely battling away at Boko Haram? This question is what may have riled CAN and Oby so much. As it is with the NA, so it has been with the NYSC. The challenge to soldiers of the Muslim North is to march onward and lead the planning and charge against terrorists who have taken over their ancestral lands and think less about viewing Abuja as an alternative family homestead. Sunday Adole Jonah, Department of Physics, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State

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THISDAYt FRIDAY NOVEMBER 30, 2018

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY NOVEMBER 30, 2018

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG

POLITICS

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

PERSPECTIVE How to Make Informed Choices in the 2019 General Elections ‘Wale Oluwade

group. Except you are a Peter Obi.

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The Socio-cultural and Religious Realities of our Society. In this society, ethnicity, religion and culture plays a major role in election outcomes. The north-south divide is very real in election contests, likewise the issues of gender, and tribe. For the female aspirants like Oby Ezekwesili, they are just wasting their time and resources. She’s worse than an impostor. Why? The entire northern region, in this 8th NASS has only one female senator and there has never been a female deputy governor, let alone governor Infact, there has never been an elected female governor in Nigeria. Under extraneous circumstances, Dame Virginia Ngozi Etiaba, was the Governor of Anambra State, from November 2006 to February 2007.

hat are the issues that will shape the general elections of 2019 in Nigeria and how do the electorates make informed choices, especially for the ultimate office? This question is the key to unlocking the focus of this article. How do we separate genuine contenders from pretenders and even further, the impostors? Let me start by acknowledging that our democracy is still devoid of any discernible ideology, principles or lofty ideas. It is simply a mad grab for power at its rawest form, hence the ‘winner takes-all’, ‘me-or-no–other’ mentality associated with it. There is a rash of the ‘not-too-young-to-run’ crowd, they’re all over the place, stumping the ground and shaking the tables vigorously, telling anyone who cares to listen, that they want to be president. There are also a handful of professionals and intellectuals in politics; who believe it is their season to be president. While these two groups are essentially naïve and starry-eyed about power and politics, however, the veteran traditional power brokers are cold, brutal and calculating. They are the undisputed lion-kings in the African savannah; dangerous but calm, unobtrusive and unruffled but deadly. They made the rules of the political game, enforce these rules, determine players in the game, and expect everyone to play by their playbook. Those who refuse to play accordingly are summarily shoved off the power loop. The Contenders, Pretenders and Impostors There are, seriously speaking, perhaps less than five parties in contention. If truth be told, however, it’s actually a two-horse race. Maybe two or three more will record a handful of votes in one or two states. The rest are impostors, and these, to my mind are mere attention seekers. In actual fact, the fight is a straight one between incumbent Muhammadu Buhari (APC) and Atiku Abubakar (PDP). These are the contenders. Among the many pretenders are Donald Duke (SDP), Kingsley Moghalu (YPP), Obadiah Mailafia (ADC) and others. Even if all the other 80-plus or so parties coalesce and become one party, they still will not offer any serious challenge to these two. The likes of Donald Duke, ‘fine boy’ alright, but this is not a Mr. Nigeria contest.

Buhari

What Political Parties Need to Win Elections A political party needs to have three things essentially, among others, to win elections; structure, finance and name recognition. What is structure? In political terms, I will use the example of the recently concluded Osun state governorship elections as example. There were 3,600 polling units where voting took place across the 30 local government areas in the state. Each party was expected to have its agent at each of these polling units. That should have been, 3,600 agents, or persons multiply these across 36 states and the FCT. Imagine the logistics needed for these people. Take the money factor, a serious presidential bid should cost, at least, N20billion, and I am being conservative in my estimates. With the foregoing, I’m constrained to inquire if the driving motive of the impostors and pretenders is to serve, why not begin as a local government chairman or house of assembly member? But obviously, these positions are beneath the self-inflated egos of these individuals. The Nature and Configuration of Nigeria’s Political Architecture. Nigeria’s political system is gamed. Current President Muhammadu Buhari signed off the not-too-young-to-run bill very quickly and without fuss. Why? He knew he was only handing the ‘children toy cars’. It is a worthless piece of legislation. I see a complete lack of intellectual understanding of this environment or it is just

Abubakar

mischief really? To refer to those societies as examples of what is possible in Nigeria is the height of intellectual naiveté at best and utter foolishness or insanity to be candid. What A Candidate Must Understand to Succeed in Nigeria’s Political Environment are; The Patriarchal Nature of Nigeria’s Democratic/Leadership System. Men rule the political turf here. And these are not just ordinary men. I mean very strong men and the emphasis is on the word ‘strong’. They were former kings who rather than die or retire quietly like Pope Benedict, have become kingmakers. Theirs is a super elite club. They are not younger than 60 years. They have power, money and contacts. And they’re not shy wielding the big stick. They are the landlords of this nation. They are in charge. Without them, you cannot become anything in the political space except by divine intervention. The likes of Akin Ambode, Ibikunle Amosun, Shehu Sanni, Gbenga Ashafa, Suleiman Abba, et al, are learning that ‘man pass man’ in this environment! You can be a governor, senator, IG, or professor, and still be rough-handled. Even a sitting president, with all his power and money was removed with a combination of political wrestling, jujitsu and karate. He’s retired and writing books now. Ability to Win the Critical Base of Power Brokers (the Kingmakers). You must be able to win the support of this

Nigeria is Basically a Two-party Democracy. All other Parties are Fringe Players Whether there are five or 91 political parties, the political history of Nigeria has shown that essentially, the country votes in a two-horse race to choose presidents. That is the history from independence till date. It will not change in 2019. The Hierarchical Nature of Political Power Structure It is still a pyramid system of decision making. The electorates vote for the candidate the ‘strong men’ tell them to support. The voting power blocks shows that in the 774 LGAs, and over one million wards, there are individuals who ensure the masses vote certain candidates of political parties as dictated to by the power brokers. They’re the chief responsibility officers (CROs) assigned to deliver their catchment areas for the candidates/parties. Nigeria’s Politics is Still Essentially Survival Based Our politics as stated earlier, is totally devoid of ideas or principles. There are no clear and distinct ideologies among parties. This means that it is still essentially driven by basic issues such as godfathers, money, coercion, bribery and instant rewards. Those speaking their English and mobilizing voters via Facebook and Twitter can continue wasting their time. On the day of voting, it’s about who the ‘gods’ have chosen and how much money can be shared to electorates. Oluwade can be reached @WaleOluwade

Between Political Achievements and Grassroots Reality Aliyu Abubakar

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overnance is a key tool for assessing development and poverty alleviation in most if not all countries of the world. The essence of being in power as an elected representative of the people is to improve the well-being of the people that have given the leaders their mandate to spend the resources of the land for the common good of all and sundry. However, it is the job of the people to hold the government accountable by measuring their policies and programs with the reality on ground because governance is about reality rather than sweet-talk and self-hyping publications. In the light of the above, lies the strength of this article as it will measure the claims of the Gombe State government in terms of performance and the reality on ground using certain indices such as education, health, agriculture and poverty alleviation. It has become an axiom that education has been used over time to develop a state or a nation. This is not strange to anyone, not even to the government of Gombe State. The Dankwambo-led administration has made an anthem out of its plans for the education sector in Gombe state by reiterating at every medium that education is the first, second and third priority of the current administration. It has over time as part of their paltry performance in the sector claim to have renovated several schools and constructed few. Despite the huge

money the state government claimed to have spent in the education sector, in some schools within Gombe Metropolis, students have no seats and have been forced to sit on the floor. If the claim of the state government as regards their performance is true, then it is either that the government had lied about the huge money spent in the sector or there were elements of corruption by those in the education sector in the state. How can a state that has had such huge allocations and self-acclaimed transformation in the education sector by aides of Dankambo, be placed poorly on West African Examinations Council (WAEC) performance score card? For instance, in 2015, 2016 and 2017, Gombe State has placed 34th respectively in what seem like a hat-trick in failure vis-à-vis WAEC performance. This abysmally poor performance is a show that the claim of the government that huge sums have been spent in education is nothing but politics of deceit. If you spend such huge money in reality, then the WAEC performance would have reflected so. With such records, one will be left in plenty doubt that the N19 billion in 2018 budget for education will have no effect too. To worsen the matter, an indigent student from Gombe State, Abba Muhammed had on Nov. 14, taken to the streets of Abuja to beg for financial support to enable him achieve his dream of getting college education in a state that places high premium on education. If the education policy scanner were to be active, Abba Muhammed would have been found

and assisted to avoid the shame and bad name that Gombe State got in that act in the nation’s capital. In a similar development, the state government has been budgeting billions of naira yearly for close to eight years to improve the wellbeing of the people of Gombe but the indices of poverty in the state is unmatchable. Today, most youths in the state have been rescued by the federal government social investment programme: N-power which has been constantly paying N30, 000 to youths in the state and has reduced the poverty level of the state and averted the social unrest that would have resulted from the impoverishing programmes of the state government. Poverty is a denial of opportunities and choices and a violation of human self-worth. Within the last seven years and more, many indigenes of Gombe have been denied their choices and opportunities to live in a manner that shows human dignity like the case of Abba Muhammed. One would need to look at the United Nations’ Global Multi-Dimensional Poverty Index report of 2015 to appreciate the level of poverty under this current administration. The report puts Gombe State incidence of poverty at 76.9% when the national average is pegged at 46.0%. Three dimensions: education, health and living standards were used in measuring poverty in the state. We need to drum it loud that not until the people at the grassroots feel the impact of governance, every achievement reeled out on

the pages of newspaper will remain nothing but a mirage. Governance must be measured by how many people have been affected by policies of the government. Since democracy is sustained by the voice of the majority, then the performance of leaders in a democratic setting must be measured by the majority who can attest to have benefitted from the actions of the government and not the microscopic few that are singing the praises of the current self-advertising government in Gombe State. In the health sector, the state government claimed to have renovated and ungraded hospitals and healthcare centers yet indigenes of Gombe die yearly of cholera without efforts by the state government to address that so it doesn’t become a yearly ritual of some sort whereby the good people of Gombe wait for diseases like cholera and the likes to take their lives on a yearly basis, yet we have a government that claimed to have invested in the health sector. The free healthcare services that were reserved for children within the ages of 0-5 years and pregnant women have not given been due consideration and the people battle to pay for healthcare services which have made some people to result to traditional method of treating diseases that would have required highly technological treatment in hospitals. NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY NOVEMBER 30, 2018

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PERSPECTIVE

APGA’s Gaffe in Imo Guber Primary: A Rejoinder Nze Duru Kizito

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have read with utmost disappointment and dissatisfaction a piece from my friend Amby Uneze, who corresponds for THISDAY Newspapers in Imo State. Uneze accused the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) of being tatters. I am disappointed that Uneze jettisoned the sacred rule of journalism, which is balancing of reports, in dissecting the issue that surrounded the party’s primary election in Imo State. It was clear from the first paragraph of his article that Amby was set to rubbish not just the party but also its National Chairman. It is either the outcome of the primary ‘election’ didn’t favour the interest of Uneze or that he has personal problem with the APGA in Imo State. Uneze claimed that the problem of Imo APGA started when the party admitted some names into her fold. In his exact words, “The problem started when the party admitted all manner of people including those rejected by their previous parties into her fold and granted waiver to run for various elective positions through the party. At the last count, the party had over 30 governorship aspirants in Imo State alone. Most of these aspirants were the best in terms of integrity, marketability, professionalism, and acceptability. In spite of greed which made the party leaders at the national level jacked up the Expression of Interest and Nomination fees, the aspirants went ahead to purchase the forms.” I don’t know when it became a crime or a cause of problems for a political party, especially, one that is in the opposition, to admit members. Has Uneze forgotten that politics is a game of numbers? Every political party in Nigeria grants waiver to those they think that would add glamour to their aspirations. That APGA has close to 30 governorship aspirant in a state like Imo dominated by the APC and PDP, is a credit on its own to Chief Victor Oye. He made the party look attractive for aspirants. He positioned the party to a height that aspirants preferred it to the APC and the PDP, especially in the South East states. Some guber aspirants who would have contested under the platform of Imo PDP knew that there was no way they could defeat Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha, as the Mbaise born former lawmaker made himself a larger than life figure in Imo PDP. Of course in APC, the battle between Okorocha and the coalition is not one any governorship aspirant would want to involve himself with. This made APGA the beautiful bride as none of the aspirants could comfortably and confidently say if they primary election had taken place, he could have won. The ambience of competition in APGA was healthy, courtesy of Chief Victor Oye. I don’t think that the decision of APGA’s National Working Committee to jack the prize of nomination forms was informed by greed. Uneze should understand that APGA is not the ruling party, nor would she measure up with the financial strength of the PDP. Election in Nigeria is a capital intensive and money sapping project. Since there are no Atikus, Sarakis, Tinubus, and Obasanjos in APGA, the monies realised from the sales of nomination forms will go a long way

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to financing the campaigns of the party nationwide. Uneze continued, “The four-man adhoc delegates in each of the positions from each ward making it 12 adhoc delegates from every ward in the stated were also meant to pay for their forms at N10,000 each for a position. It then means that those who bought forms for the four positions – House of Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate and Governorship spent N40,000 each adhoc delegate which was paid to the party coffers. From a random calculation, Imo State aspirants under the platform of APGA in a whole must have paid a whooping sum of over N4 billion into the coffers of the party at the national level.” I was aware when party faithful started purchasing ad-hoc delegate forms for the primary election in Imo. As much as eyebrows were raised over the amount the form went for, people cared less. In fact, some aspirants, notably the governorship aspirants, bought as many forms as possible and gave it out to those who they think if they make the delegate list, will vote for them. There is no sacrifice that is too big for a course one believes in. APGA may have demanded more than the PDP and APC as regards the amount for the adhoc delegate form, but the truth is people bought it without much grudges. Uneze I know is a journalist and has little knowledge of Mathematics, hence, we will forgive him for making an audacious, unverifiable, untruthful statement of the aspirants contributing a whooping sum of N4 billion to the coffers of the party. That is far from reality. Uneze only condemned the decision of the party to pick senator Araraume, without telling his reading audience that the NWC of the party sent an electoral committee to Imo from Abuja. He didn’t tell the world that for three days, this electoral committee tried to conduct the primary, and for three days, thugs allegedly loyal to some gubernatorial aspirants threatened them. He didn’t write how some aspirants boycotted what would have been primary election. Amby lamented, “By hand picking a candidate and presenting same to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the governorship of the state and other positions only reduced the integrity of the party in the state and ignited public outcry leading the other aspirants to

demand that the right thing should be done or their money returned back to them. The name of APGA in Imo state today reverberates violence, cheating, recklessness. “ Uneze needs to know that the party leadership ab-initio didn’t plan for the governorship primary in Imo State to go the way it did , but having seen that all efforts to have a peaceful primary election failed to materialise, the National Working Committee together with the members of the party’s Board of Trustees, the State Working Committee and indeed major stakeholders of the party, took a decision to go ahead with the primary, so as to meet up with the deadline for the submission of candidate’s name by the Independent National Electoral Committee (INEC). After all the politicking, Senator Ifeanyi Araraume emerged as the party’s governorship candidate. Expectedly, other aspirants didn’t welcome the development. Most supporters of the party in Imo called for the head of the National Chairman of APGA, Chief Victor Oye. It appeared the existence of APGA as a party was about to come to an end. But some aggrieved supporters of the party who had threatened to leave the party, after some days gave in to superior argument and saw reasons to not only stay back but to support Senator Ifeanyi Araraume’s candidacy. Today Araraume is making waves across Imo to the extent that many are keying into his campaign. That Chief Ohakim and other 13 aspirants sued the party to court is not enough reason to say APGA is in tatters. Senator Samuel Anyanwu sued his party, the PDP. Okorocha and Uche Nwosu both sued APC. These things are normal if a person(s) feel(s) aggrieved. Even Ikedi Ohakim, Okey Ezeh, Ike C. Ibe, Humphrey Anumudu have all been linked to other parties. Infact, Okey Ezeh went to Social Democratic Party (SDP) and dislodged Mr. Casmir Anyanwu as the guber candidate. Information reaching showed that Okey Eze had been financing SDP and paying for their offices and at the same time pretending to be working for APGA. What Eze did was not only anti party but a show of greed and desperation. What moral justification does he have to accuse APGA leadership of shortchanging him when it runs in his blood to undercut other people. Contrary to the revelation of Uneze, recent political developments in Imo do

not in any way favour the Imo PDP and its candidate, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha. That Uche Onyeagucha drummed support for him is not enough reason for anyone to assert that the pendulum swings in the PDP’s direction. If Onyeagucha felt aggrieved with what transpired within the party and faulted the process, yet decided to support Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha who had to rely on manipulation of the adhoc delegate list and over voting to win the PDP primary election (as contained in the suit of Senator Samuel Anyanwu), then Onyeagucha should not be taken seriously. Onyeagucha who was reported to have brokered the deal between Senator Araraume and Gov. Okorocha some days before 2015 knows that the former or the governor of Imo State, Chief Ohakim, are the only aspirants that are most likely to secure victory for APGA in the 2019 elections. Uche Onyeagucha was wrong to claim that Araraume would be worse than Rochas. Of course, we know Senator Araraume and his unquenchable taste for quality. Araraume is one of those few persons Okorocha wouldn’t like to have as a successor, because he (Araraume) will recover everything Okorocha has stolen from the state. Onyeagucha should not be taken seriously at all. He was alleged to be amongst the guber aspirants who had tried to hijack the process but failed. He made many futile attempts to bribe the leadership of the party but was rebuffed. Where are the so-called N-APGA today? Where are Humphrey Anumudu, Ike C. Ibe, Okey Eze? Did they endorse Ihedioha only to run away and become the governorship candidates of other parties? These N- APGA guber candidates have all found shelters in political parties they were reportedly funding secretly. What wickedness. Onyeagucha and my friend, Amby Uneze, should know that this is a battle they cannot win. Ndi Imo will decide who will be their next governor, and the issue of primary election will not be considered at the polling units. Voters will only concentrate on the strength of character of the candidates, their antecedents and willingness and ability to deliver dividends of democracy as a governor, and Senator Ifeanyi Araraume won’t be found wanting. The national leadership of our party may have made some mistakes. The National Chairman has, however, taken responsibility for the actions and shortcomings of party executives across the country. It’s no longer news that aspirants, notably guber aspirants had liaised with Zonal Chairmen of the party in Imo and Abia to hijack the ad hoc delegate forms. We have it on record that the National Chairman was bent on ensuring that there was indeed an ad hoc delegate primary election, but members of the SWC of the party in Imo, in accordance with other guber aspirants, opted out of the ad hoc delegate primary as against the wish of the national body and further demanded for an harmonised delegates list from the 305 INEC electoral wards in Imo State. NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

The Candidate with Impeccable Experience to Take Lagos to the Next Level Gbolahan Ogundimu Odusanya

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abajide Sanwoolu has the vision, experience and ability to lead Lagos state into the next phase. He is an effective community builder in Lagos state. His successful banking and public sector career experience have fostered successful local business development while overseeing Ministry of Economic Planning and Ministry of Establishment at different times. As a governor, Babajide Sanwoolu will create a leading partnership with Lagos residents, organisations and neighbouring communities to create sustainable prosperity for the growing and changing Lagos. He is a trained surveyor and that galvanises his passionate advocacy for sustainable urban development and affordable housing in a

cosmopolitan Lagos. As commissioners for Establishment, and Economic Planning, Sanwoolu worked tirelessly for transparency and accountability, and he is always at the forefront opposing projects that posed a great financial risk to tax-payers and the environment. Sanwoolu understands the problems facing Lagos state and knows that the state can do better with a visionary leader. With bold leadership and a clear action plan, Babajide Sanwoolu is committed to changing the culture at Lagos state to ensure smarter management of its revenue. He equally understands the impact of information technology on sustainable economic growth. He has illuminating ideas on how to use technology and innovation to increase transparency at Lagos state and enhance public engagement

across all facets of business in the state. His recently launched free Wi-Fi is a pointer in this direction. He believes in citizen-driven government and has started using the free Wi-Fi to build ongoing conversations that encourage cooperation and build consensus about difficult issues facing Lagos state. Sanwoolu has transversed both private and public sectors. These sojourn have given him a great deal of ideas about a mutually beneficial partnership between the state and local governments. This has allowed him to assemble a large list of innovative ideas that can transform each local government into a city built for the future. He is passionate about infrastructural development, and he intends to galvanise this by renewing and resourcing Lagos’s 30-year Development Plan. He will stimulate business growth and

social development by revitalizing affordable housing schemes, investing in arts and culture, and enhancing health services for Lagosians. He will strengthen neighbourhoods by accelerating local transportation and land use plans. The APC governorship candidate in Lagos understands that being a governor is about balance and leadership. It is keeping your word and seizing opportunities. That is what he has done all his years in both the public and private sectors. While his plans for Lagos state is an ambitious agenda, it is achievable with a competent team at his disposal. But the first step lies with you, the electorates. Babajide Sanwoolu needs your votes to actualise this dream. -Odusanya can be reached at corner47travel@gmail.com

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THISDAYt '3*%": /07&.#&3 Čĉ ċĉĊđ

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BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET OBB OVERNIGHT

A S

A T

N O V E M B E R

REPO 6.33 % 7.17 %

CALL 1-MONTH 3-MONTH

S & P INDEX INDEX LEVEL 1-DAY MONTH-TO-DATE

5% 8.88% 9.08%

347.03 % 0.00% -0.25%

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

1 6 , 2 0 1 8 S & P INDEX 1/4 TO DATE 0.08% YEAR TO DATE 5.33%

EXCHANGE RATE N306.70/1US DOLLAR* *AS AT LAST FRIDAY

Quick Takes Cabin Crew Tasked on Customer Service

The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema, has urged cabin crew members to deepen their customer service and crisismanagementskillstoforgeabetterrelationshipbetweenairlines and their passengers. Onyema,madethecallatthesecondCabinCrewFair2018organisedby MamaJAviationConsultLimitedattheNigerianCivilAviationAuthority (NCAA)Annex,MurtalaMuhammedAirport(MMA),Lagosonrecently. Inarelateddevelopment,theAirPeacebossandthecarrier’sCabinServices Manager,FlorenceOpiahasbeenhonouredwiththeOutstandingAviation PersonalityoftheYearandtheCabinCrewExcellenceawardsrespectively. DeliveringthekeynoteaddressatCabinCrewFairwiththetheme:“Raising theBaroftheCabinCrewProfession,�OnyemacommendedNigeriancabin crewmembersforacquittingthemselvescreditablyintheirprimaryroles of ensuring the safety, security and comfort of air travellers. He, however, urged Nigerian cabin crew members to do much more in deliveringtop-notchcustomerservicethroughouttheirflightsandlearn to de-escalate crises before they degenerate. TheAirPeacechairman,whowasrepresentedbytheairline’sCorporate Communications Manager, Mr. Chris Iwarah, said cabin crew members were a critical link between an airline and its passengers. Wherecabincrewmembersfailedtoprovidegoodcustomerservice,he warned,anairlinewouldbenegativelyimpactednomatterthequalityof its flight services, he said.

PARTNERSHIP FOR BLUE ECONOMY

L-R: The Chairman Governing Board of NIMASA, Maj. Gen. Jonathan India Garba (Rtd.), President of Seychelles, Mr Danny Faure and the Director General NIMASA, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, at the Blue economy conference in Nairobi, Kenya...recently

Few Operational Aircraft Put Pressure on Domestic Airlines Chinedu Eze Domestic airlines cannot meet the demand of travellers due to shrinking fleet and this has given rise to high airfares, scramble for flights and the inability of people to travel by air. THISDAY investigations revealed that in the last one week there have been cut back on the number of aircraft operating domestic service in the country, as airlines have sent their aircraft on maintenance overseas, while one major carrier stopped operation due to delay in certification. This reduced the number of operating aircraft deployed

AVIATION to service domestic routes to about 20 on Monday and led to scramble for flights, as industry observers project that this problem would last till the end of the year because of the high demand during the yuletide season. Travel expert and organiser of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ikechi Uko, described the development as protracted, saying it happens during the high seasons, especially during the yuletide. “Having fewer aircraft that cannot meet the demand of travellers is the most important

issue right now. Why is the Nigerian passenger not being served well? “What has happened to the capacity of domestic airlines to serve passengers? Why is Christmas every year a nightmare with weather and fuel challenge and this year we have reduced capacity? “Something is amiss and borders on emergency. The demand is obviously far more than the supply now. Nigerians need answers. The delays and increased cost will jeopardise the Christmas holiday if not looked into,� he said. As at Wednesday, the airlines still in operation included Medview Airline, Max Air,

Azman, Overland Airways, Air Peace, Arik Air and Aero Contractors. But informed source told THISDAY that “these airlines do not have more than 18 to 20 aircraft and the number of aircraft is surely not enough for this high season. They cannot meet the demand but ironically, during the low seasons the number of aircraft will be more than enough.� A seasoned pilot and aeronautical engineers who also operates in the aviation industry told THISDAY that the problem of low capacity Continued on page 22

African Leaders Vow to Develop Blue Economy to Boost Growth Eromosele Abiodun African leaders have assured of the development of the blue economy as a veritable strategy for advancing economies and lifting the people out of poverty. The leaders made the pledge at the first global conference on sustainable blue economy in Nairobi Kenya. Speaking at the conference, Chairman of the African Union (AU), President Paul Kigame of Rwanda, said the union was committed to the growth of the blue economy in the continent. Kigame, said member-states had shown commitment towards sustainable use of the ocean and AU would continue to formulate policies that would engender the development of Africa’s ocean economy. On her part, the Prime

MARITIME Minister of Namibia, Saara Kuugongelwa, said the Namibian government was committed to developing an integrated blue economy policy geared towards protecting the marine environment of the Southern African country. Kuugongelwa, said Namibia had a special fisheries observers’ institution, which puts the country among the leaders in sustainable fisheries management. She disclosed that in the next 12 months, Namibia would be investing a minimum of $5 million towards marine research, on purpose to advance economic inclusivity. In his remarks, the President of Seychelles Danny Faure, who was appointed to serve as the AU Champion of Blue

Economy, said in his own capacity he will get more women to serve on the blue economy regime. This, he said, would ensure that the campaign for the blue economy remained all-inclusive. He also said his country would work on establishing a pan African shipping line. Other African leaders in attendance included the President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta who is the Chief Host of the conference; President of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohammed; President of Tanzania, John Magufuli; President of Zanzibar, Ali Mohamed Shein; President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni; and President of Mozambique, Filipe Nyusi. The Governments of Canada and Japan who are co-hosting the conference were represented by their top cabinet

ministers. Also in attendance was the newly re-elected SecretaryGeneral of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Kitack Lim, the Canadian Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, and several other notable world maritime stakeholders. The inaugural Sustainable Blue Economy Conference has over 15,000 participants from around the world. They are gathered to discuss how to build a blue economy that harnesses the potentials of oceans, seas, lakes and rivers to improve the lives of people, particularly those in developing countries. In his opening remarks, the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration Continued on page 22

Ethiopian Airlines Wins Award

EthiopianAirlineshasannouncedasthe2018BestAirlinesinAfricaAward for the seventh year in a row.The award was bestowed on the airline by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA). TheawardwasgivenonNovember27,2018,inrecognitionofitsexceptional financialperformanceatthe50thhighprofileAfricanAirlineAssociation Annual General Assembly taking place in Rabat, Morocco. Commentingonthefeat,theGroupCEOofEthiopianAirlines,Mr.Tewolde GebreMariam said: “We are thrilled to win this prestigious award. In the lastsevenyearswehavebeencomingtoAFRAAAGAandreceivingthis continentalhigh-profileawardeverysingleyear.“WesincerelythankAFRAA andoursisterAfricanAirlinesfortheaward.Theawardunderscoresthe continuouseffortsandhardworkofEthiopianemployeeswhoarehighly committed for the extra ordinary success of our airline. “The accolade also attests the soundness of our fast, profitable and sustainablegrowthplan,Vision2025andtheassociatedbusinessmodel. “Oursinceregratitudealsogoestoourcustomersworldwideforgivingus theopportunitytoservethem,fortravellingonEthiopianingreatnumbers, fortheircontinuedfeedbackandsupportwhichiscriticalsuccessfactor in continuously improving our award-winning customer services. “Africa is registering rapid economic growth which holds a very strong futureandIwouldliketoremindmyfellowindustrypartners,governments andallstakeholdersthatweallneedtostrategizeonhowweallcanwork togethertocapitaliseontheopportunitiesarisingfromthebusinessand investment boom in the continent and take the role of air connectivity to the next level.�

NAMA Boss Bags Fellowship Award

TheDirectorofSafetyElectronicsandEngineeringServicesintheNigerian AirspaceManagementAgency(NAMA),AhmedUmarFarouk,wasrecently listedamong32eminentNigeriansinductedintotheprestigiousFellowship oftheNigerianSocietyofEngineers(NSE). Theeventwhichtookplacein Abuja,waspartofactivitiesmarkingthe60thanniversaryofthesociety. Speakingattheinductionceremony,thePresidentoftheNigerianSociety ofEngineers,AdekunleMokuolu,saidtheinducteesweredistinguished Nigerianswhowerebeingelevatedtothehighestcadreofmembershipof thesocietyowingtotheirexemplaryprofessionalconductandimmense contribution to the growth and development of the nation. Mokuolu expressed optimism that this recognition would further propel them to be outstanding in their different endeavours. Farouk’s investiture came barely three weeks after he was conferred with the fellowship of the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE) in Kano. AgraduateoftheFederalUniversityofTechnology,Minnawherehebagged a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Farouk also obtained a Master’sdegreeinBusinessAdministrationfromtheLagosStateUniversity (LASU)in1999andanotherMaster’sdegreeinInternationalAffairsand Diplomacy in 2009 from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. FaroukwhoisregisteredwiththeCouncilfortheRegulationofEngineering in Nigeria (COREN) is also a member of the National Association of Air Traffic Engineers, Chattered Institute of Administrators, Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply among other professional bodies.

“We must aim to be above standards at all times to sustain air safety in Nigeria� Rector, College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria,

Captain Abdulsalaam Mohammed

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BUSINESSWORLD FEW OPERATIONAL AIRCRAFT PUTS PRESSURE ON AIRLINES

would continue to be an issue in Nigeria because Nigerian airlines operate aged aircraft which demand heavy maintenance that cost so much money. “Most of the aircraft acquired by Nigerian airlines have about 1000 flight hours left in them from 10,000 hours. That is why an aircraft that is sold $75 million when it is new can be given out at about $3 million. So by the time it is due for heavy checks like C and D checks you may have to cough out $10 to 20 million to do it. “So you find out that it would be better for you to leave the airplane and go for another one for $3 to $4 million. With $500,000 you can change the whole interior and make it look new but what matters is the airframe. Is it corroded? What would require so much money to work on,� the source said. According to him, this problem would continue in Nigeria because few people have the resources to buy new airplanes and fewer people would like to invest in airline business “because when you do they will start fighting you through government policies. Government has made the operational environment very harsh.� AFRICAN LEADERS VOWS DEVELOPMENT OF BLUE ECONOMY TO BOOST GROWTH

and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside stated that it was high time Africans took advantage of the continent’s enormous maritime potential to develop their countries, explaining that climes without as much opportunities are making worthy use of the ocean economy and increasing the prosperity of their people. According to him, “It is common knowledge that among all the continents, Africa can be termed the biggest Island, and so if countries of the region can sustainably harness the blue economy it is sure that a large percentage of poverty level in the continent of Africa would have been tackled.�

Group Business Editor

Obinna Chima

FG, Shipowners to Collaborate for Job Creation, Others Eromosele Abiodun Determined to harness the gains of the Nigerian maritime industry in order to create employment opportunities for the nation’s youths, ensure economic growth, Shipowners in the country have decided to pursue a seamless collaboration with relevant stakeholders and key players, particularly those in Government. A chieftain of the Ship Owners Association of Nigerian (SOAN), Alfred Okoigun disclosed this in a chat with newsmen in Lagos. He stressed that industry operators and key players could not afford to bicker further, at the expense of needy youths, adding that a brainstorming session would take place next month to fashion a plan. While stating that much background work was already achieved, he said the session would further strengthen and consummate the vision of the Nigerian Shipowners, in the overall interest of the Nigerian people. “We are beginning to get the collaboration of the industry players like the Nigerian Local Content Board, the NAPIMS office, NIMASA, etc, with every one of them, not just listening but even asking us: what are your challenges; and where can we help you. This was not a common thing before,� indicated Okoigun. Okoigun stressed that the task of ensuring a positive economic turnaround is a joint mandate, hence the total involvement of all shipowners, irrespective of affiliations to collectively explore how the future of the youths could be brightened. “Can you imagine the fact that with the quantum of water we are endowed with, we have not harnessed and prospered from it? If you go to Holland, Sweden, Norway or even Dubai of recent,

Raheem Akingbolu Critical stakeholders in the marketing communications industry, especially creative agencies and brand owners have been urged to always adopt story-telling style, peculiar to Africa to build their brands. Speaking at this year’s edition of the Marketing Excellence Award, on the need for marketing campaigns to resonate with target

Emma Okonji

Capital Market Editor

Goddy Egene

Senior Correspondent

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

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

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

leave a legacy!�, the shipping mogul stated, emphasising that operators have actually achieved far more than verbal recognition or acceptance by the relevant decision makers; and should therefore work harder at consolidating their gains. “For instance, our collaboration with the Local Content Development Board had tilted the table favourably for Nigerians. I remember some eight or ten years ago, when some of us were in to bid for contracts

with any of the IOCs, the list of the bidders were usually of the foreign companies. “For you to be even admitted to be one of the participants was a big deal. But today, I have seen that the list of the bidders approved by NLCMB was 99 per cent of our local companies, at least in some categories!, “he said. Speaking also about the occasion, the SOAN President, Greg Ogbeifun, expressed satisfaction that the shipowners between its

last AGM and now, not only achieved at least 70 per cent of its mission/ goals but also achieved a paradigm shift in the perception of shipping in the country. “One of the great achievements of SOAN in the last 12 months is that as a result of our last outing, there has been huge paradigm shift, from the way Government and government agencies have been tackling issues relating to the Maritime sector.�

EXTRA-ORDINARY GENERAL MEETING

L-R: Company Secretary, Consolidated Hallmark Insurance Plc, Rukevwe Falana; Chairman, Obinna Ekezieand Managing Director/CEO, Edddie Efekoha, during the extra-ordinary general meeting of the company in Lagos‌recently PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

consumers, the President of the Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN), Mrs. Folake Ani-Mumuney, linked consumer engagement with language, culture style of campaign presentation. She said the association’s decision to weave the thematic thrusts of this year’s event around storytelling was informed by the need to further highlight a topic that has become one of the strongest marketing trends in

marketing, in recent times. She described storytelling as a strategic tool that enables marketers engage their consumers in a fragmented media world where consumers are looking for different experiences and delivery. The ADVAN boss stated that one of the focuses of the present executive team of the association is to lead the crusade for a more datacentric marketing environment

that will ensure data-driven marketing activities. “Our Data Insight and Content Committee is hard at work with relevant partners to accelerate this process,� she stated. She also explained that the annual award was aimed at honouring the finest standards in marketing; since high standards of quality and integrity remain necessary ingredients for the marketing profession to flourish.

In his paper at the event, the keynote Speaker, Mr. Femi Odugbemi, noted that technology had made it possible for brands to own their own stories around the world. “Technology has given us a village square. The market place has become virtual. Story-telling has become a part and parcel of us. Interestingly, the ‘share’ button allows you to tell your stories, through your sphere of influence,� Odugbemi stated.

FG to Commit N5bn to Ranches in Kaduna Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Comms/e-Business Editor

without much of water; you can see what they are doing with their waters. “But here, we are just scratching the surface! So, this year is to really get the Government and the key players together, to enable all parties, brainstorm and explore how we need to continue to collaborate and improve together in the overall interest of both the Maritime industry and the citizens. “Let’s collaborate together; let’s broaden out and let’s

Advertisers, Agencies Tasked on Telling African Stories

AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

Jonathan Eze

NEWS

The federal government is expected to commit about N5 billion worth of investments towards ranches development in Kaduna. This disclosure was made by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Kaduna State, Abdulkadir Kassim. Kassim, spoke at the inaugural dialogue to deepen collaboration on integration and harmonisation of policies on crop and livestock production organised by Synergos.

Stakeholders from Kogi, Benue and Kaduna States deliberated on integration and strategies to solve complex problems of poverty. Kaduna is one of the handful of states that has offered to resolve the bloody farmers, herders’ crisis across the country by making land available for grazing reserves. The project is to be supervised by the Vice President Prof Yemi Osinbajo. Kaduna has proposed to build 12 grazing reserves; the biggest which others will be modelled after will be cited in Kachia.

Kassim, also disclosed that the grazing reserves in Kagarko, Gayan and Gamakir would be equipped with the necessary infrastructure that will encourage farmers to remain sedentary. “We are also trying to encourage private sector participation in livestock production. We invited a Danish company named Arla that is ready to settle 1000 farmers in Kubau grazing reserve where accommodation, residence will be provided, six hectares of land will be provided for each family and 10 cows will be artificially inseminated and

given to these farmers on a public-private partnership that will be later paid back by the farmers,� Kassim said. Also proving insights, the Director of Livestock, Benue State Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Edward Amali, reiterated the commitment of the state to curbing the crisis between pastoralists and herders in the state. He highlighted the enactment of the anti-open grazing law, building of three ranches in the three senatorial zones of the state in addition to a proposal to site another in Makurdi as

some of the deliberate policies made in this direction. The Permanent Secretary, Kogi State Ministry of Agriculture, Emmanuel Idenyi, remarked that Kogi State had resolved all pending and existing crises between herdsmen and farmers. Victor Adejoh, a Senior Field Manager at Synergos, representing the Country Director, Adewale Ajadi, stressed a thrust has been developed with pastoralists, farmers, states and federal agencies towards implementing policies for improved agriculture production.

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BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

Air Peace Takes Delivery of 6th ERJ 145 Stories by Chinedu Eze West Africa’s leading airline, Air Peace on Tuesday received the last of the six 50-seater Embraer 145 jets it recently acquired, maintaining that its target of providing seamless flight services on the domestic, regional and international routes was going according to plan. The aircraft marked 5N-BUW and named Virginia Omeogo Adegoke (Nee Onyema), touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos at about 4 a.m. (LT) on Tuesday. Air Peace had taken delivery of its 5th ERJ 145 on October 14. A statement issued by the carrier’s Corporate Communications Manager, Mr. Chris Iwarah, explained that the airline’s goal of guaranteeing seamless flight operations as well as connecting unserved and underserved routes was fast being fulfilled. “We are delighted to announce the arrival of our sixth 50-seater

Embraer 145 jet at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos at about 4 a.m. on Tuesday, November 27, 2018. “The arrival of the aircraft has further strengthened our resolve to provide seamless flight services on the domestic, regional and international routes as well as extend the reach of our exceptional operations to many more unserved and underserved destinations under our no-city-left-behind project. “Upon the arrival of our first Embraer 145 aircraft in February this year, we set another record in Nigeria’s aviation industry with the establishment of a subsidiary, Air Peace Hopper to organise our plan to democratise air transport and deliver exceptional flight services to unserved and underserved cities in Nigeria and the West Coast of Africa. “Since we started this project, the pieces of feedback have been quite encouraging. Although there have been challenges,

including delays mostly on account of circumstances bordering on safety and other factors beyond our control, we have kept reviewing our schedules and re-strategising to ensure the best of flight services for our teeming loyal customers. This has greatly paid off and the delays reduced to the barest minimum. “We are in aviation to create massive job opportunities, connect people and business and leisure destinations, help in growing the economies of Nigeria and other nations we operate in and make our dear nation proud overall in the global aviation community. “We are quite proud that this vision is unravelling on a great positive note, especially with the support, loyalty and patronage of our esteemed customers. With our deepened capacity, we have no doubt it is early yuletide for the flying public this year, “Air Peace said.

ART President Canvasses Promotion of Tourism The President of Aviation Round Table (ART), Dr. Gbenga Olowo, has called on government at all levels as well as the private sector operators, to promote tourism and make Nigeria a tourism destination. Olowo, said once tourism is made attractive to tourists especially foreigners, the contribution of the sector to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) would increase and create more jobs for the teeming populace. Olowo made this known recently in Abuja where he was inducted as a Fellow of Institute for Tourism Professionals (ITP) in Nigeria. He insisted that Nigeria had a lot of tourism destinations to promote, but regretted that some of these sites remain untapped by various bodies across the country under the wrong perception of insecurity, but stressed that despite the

continued war in Israel, tourists still trooped into the country and it is the same with Brazil in spite of recorded crimes and wondered why the reverse was the case in Nigeria. “We already have tourism on ground, but we need to package, brand and market whatever what we have. Practitioners have to get serious and turn Tourism to good economic investment. “The travel agencies, tour operators and by extension the Ministry of Information and Culture should do more. Information remains grossly inadequate both at our embassies and all media. “I landed at night in Kano State recently and surprisingly found everywhere lit. Kano is so beautiful and there are several cities like that in the country today. A tour of Kano, Lagos, PHC by night with Dinner and Show lasting 3hours or there

about will be an attractive package any day. As we speak, Uyo is hosting lady golfers in Africa. Tour packages should be part of such tournament. “We should begin to market our tourist sites. Israel is fighting wars yet tourism, Medicine and agriculture remain their primary economic strength,� Olowo said. On his induction as a fellow of ITP, Olowo said the honour would challenge him to do more for the industry. “With over 45 years in travel trade sector, the President and Council of ITP have not misplaced their judgment as Fellowship is the highest level of a practitioner in any professional institute and a honour well deserved. “For me, tourism is still not where it ought to be, it is far behind simply hinging the wrong perception that Nigeria is not save. I beg to disagree,� he added.

Emirates Group Announces Half Year Results The Emirates Group has announced its half-year results for 2018-19. The Group saw steady revenue growth compared to the same period last year. However, its profits were impacted by the significant rise in oil prices, and unfavourable currency movements in certain markets, amidst other challenges for the airline and travel industry. The Emirates Group revenue was AED54.4 billion ($ 14.8 billion) for the first six months of its 2018-2019 financial year, up 10 per cent by AED 49.4 billion ($ 13.5 billion) during the same period last year. Profitability was down 53 per cent compared to the same period last year, with the Group reporting a 2018-19

half-year net profit of AED 1.1 billion ($ 296 million). The profit erosion was primarily due to the significant increase in fuel prices of 37 per cent compared to the same period last year, as well as the negative impact of currencies in certain markets. The Group’s cash position on 30th September 2018 was at AED 21.5 billion ($ 5.9 billion), compared to AED 25.4 billion ($ 6.9 billion) as at 31st March 2018. The Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, His Highness (HH) Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said, “Emirates and dnata grew steadily in the first half of 2018-19. Demand for our high quality products and services remained healthy,

as we won new and return customers across our businesses and this is reflected in our revenue performance. However, the high fuel cost as well as currency devaluations in markets like India, Brazil, Angola and Iran, wiped approximately AED 4.6 billion from our profits. “We are proactively managing the myriad challenges faced by the airline and travel industry, including the relentless downward pressure on yields, and uncertain economic and political realities in our region and in other parts of the world. “We are keeping a tight rein on controllable costs and will continue to drive efficiency improvement through the implementation of new technology and business processes.�

IATA Urges Africa to Unlock BeneďŹ ts of Air Transport

De Juniac

Chinedu Eze

T h e I n t e r n a t i o n a l A i r Tr a n s p o r t A s s o c i a t i o n ( I ATA ) h a s s a i d A f rican nations are denying themselves the benefits of air transport by not removing restrictions that impinge on liberalised airspace in the continent. Wi t h a p ro j e c t e d r i s e i n p a s senger movement to 350 million b y 2 0 3 5 i n t h e re g i o n , I ATA s a i d for Africa to benefit maximally from this growth, it has to unlock the benefits of aviation in the areas of safety, competitiveness, infrastructure and harmonisation. In a presentation he delivered at the 50th Annual General Meeting of the African Airlines Association ( A F R A A ) , t h e D i re c t o r G e n e r a l a n d C E O o f I ATA , A l e x a n d e r d e J u n i a c , u rg e d g o v e r n m e n t s i n Africa to maximise the positive social and economic power of aviation by working together to p ro m o t e s a f e , s u s t a i n a b l e a n d e ff i c i e n t a i r c o n n e c t i v i t y. “African aviation supports $55.8 billion of economic activity a n d 6 . 2 m i l l i o n j o b s . To e n a b l e aviation to be an even bigger d r i v e r o f p ro s p e r i t y a c ro s s t h e continent, we must work closely with governments,� Juniac said. He noted that safety is a positive example of progress through collaboration. “Africa has had no jet hull losses for two years running and is two years free of any fatalities o n a n y a i rc r a f t t y p e , i t ’ s c l e a r that progress is being made. But m o re n e e d s t o b e d o n e . We u rg e g o v e r n m e n t s t o re c o g n i s e t h e I ATA O p e r a t i o n a l S a f e t y A u d i t (IOSA) in their safety oversight p ro g r a m s . “With IOSA carriers performing t h re e t i m e s b e t t e r t h a n a i r l i n e s not on the IOSA registry, we have a convincing argument. Similarly, states must push forward greater adoption of the International Civil Av i a t i o n O rg a n i s a t i o n ( I C A O ) S t a n d a rd s a n d R e c o m m e n d e d Practices (SARPS),� said de Juniac. De Juniac stated that only 24 African states have complied with at least 60 per cent of the I n t e r n a t i o n a l C i v i l Av i a t i o n Organisation Recommended and Standard Practices and remarked that this was not good enough, u rg i n g t h a t c o u n t r i e s i n A f r i c a should make global air safety s t a n d a rd a t o p p r i o r i t y. The IATA Director General also

called for closer co-operation a m o n g s t a t e s i n t h e re g i o n , s a y ing that for Africa to reap the full benefits of air transport, states must improve competitiveness in t e r m s o f l o o s e n i n g e x i s t i n g s t i ff regulations that shut other airlines f ro m f e l l o w A f r i c a n s t a t e s . De Juniac said each country in the continent must develop effective infrastructure in terms of airport facilities, landing aids and runways; modernise their regulatory framework, focusing on global standards and connectivity as well as ensuring a well-trained and d i v e r s e w o r k f o rc e . De Juniac said African states should establish competitive c o s t s t ru c t u re b e c a u s e p re s e n t l y airlines in Africa, on average, lose $1.55 for every passenger carried, noting that such structures would enable growth, adding that reducing blocked funds is essential to improving the competitiveness of African aviation. “Africa is an expensive place for airlines to do business. There is no shortage of examples illustrating t h e h e a v y b u rd e n t h a t g o v e r n m e n t s e x t r a c t f ro m a v i a t i o n . J e t f u e l c o s t s a re 3 5 p e r c e n t h i g h e r t h a n t h e re s t o f t h e w o r l d . U s e r charges, as a percentage of airlines’ o p e r a t i n g c o s t s , a re d o u b l e t h e industry average. And taxes and charges are among the highest in the world. On top of that, $670 million of airline funds are blocked. To o m a n y A f r i c a n g o v e r n m e n t s view aviation as a luxury rather than a necessity. We must change t h a t p e rc e p t i o n , � s a i d d e J u n i a c . O n i n f r a s t ru c t u re h e s a i d , “ I n A f r i c a w e h a v e i n f r a s t ru c t u re p ro b l e m s i n t w o e x t re m e s . I n some cases, it is overbuilt and expensive. In other cases, it is deficient and cannot meet demand. Dialogue between industry and g o v e r n m e n t i s c r i t i c a l t o e n s u re that there is sufficient capacity to meet demand, that airline technical and commercial quality standards are met and that the infrastructure is affordable. Achieving that will create the platform on which aviation’s economic and social benefits can be maximized,� said de Juniac. C a l l i n g f o r h a r m o n i s e d re g u l a t i o n , I ATA t h e re f o re e x p re s s e d strong support for the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) initiative, which encourages the liberalization of the region’s airspace for African airlines. “The low density of the African intra-continental network makes i t i m p o s s i b l e t o re a l i s e t h e p o tential benefits of a connected A f r i c a n e c o n o m y. S A AT M — i f implemented—gives Africa the p o t e n t i a l f o r e c o n o m i c t r a n s f o rmation. History has shown that opening markets leads to rapid a d v a n c e s i n c o n n e c t i v i t y, � s a i d de Juniac. He noted that to date, 27 African governments have committed to S A AT M a n d I ATA e n c o u r a g e s t h e re m a i n i n g 2 8 A f r i c a n U n i o n m e m b e r s t a t e s t o c o m e o n b o a rd quickly to enjoy the potential benefits of a connected African e c o n o m y. D e J u n i a c s a i d p ro j e c t e d p a s s e n g e r g ro w t h i n A f r i c a w o u l d q u a d ru p l e o v e r t h e n e x t t w o d e cades, remarking that this growth would require an expanded labor force. He therefore called on governments to develop policies to build their training pipeline to s u p p o r t g ro w t h a n d t a p i n t o t h e power of women to help alleviate a g ro w i n g s k i l l s s h o r t a g e i n t h e re g i o n .

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Pilots’ Clamour for New Welfare Package Nigerian pilots for some time have been demanding that they be paid in dollars and given the same treatment extended to their expatriate counterparts, but some industry players are of the view that such demand is outrageous, writes Chinedu Eze In the aviation industry pilots are first among equals. The training they undergo, the precision of their job, which brooks no mistakes and the level of discipline and health status required of them, make it inevitable that they must be highly placed. The rigour and the financial requirements before a pilot will become qualified to take airplane from one destination to another for reward, places them at the apogee of the industry. Everyone in the industry recognises that and pilots arguably may be the most regulated professionals in conventional jobs in the world. This apparently could be the reason why Nigerian pilots recently started agitating that they be paid in dollars like their counterparts in some other countries and also urged that they be given incentives just like their counterparts in China, Middle East and other places.

Paucity of Pilots Former inspector with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) who is also a seasoned pilot, Captain Uche Ojadi in reasoning with the pilots, told THISDAY that there should be international standard regarding the welfare of pilots because pilots can move from one country to another and pick jobs, so they have to be treated the same way they would be treated elsewhere. “There should be international standards. You have to take cognisance that you are operating in a competitive environment and that there is scarcity of pilots, so if you don’t treat them well they go to other places. “Different companies pay their pilots differently. So if you wish to retain the pilots you pay them reasonably. Everything depends on the package,� Ojadi said. But the CEO of Aero Contractors, Captain Ado Sanusi, argued that the demand that pilots in Nigeria should be paid in foreign currency is not legitimate because they work in Nigeria and should be paid in the local currency. He argued that such move could lead to the dollarisation of the Nigerian economy which the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has been battling against. “It is not a legitimate claim for them to demand to be paid in dollars. They are working in Nigeria and everything they want is here. “If they want to be paid in dollars they should get work outside Nigeria. No industry can do it and survive even in the oil sector,� Sanusi said. He explained that Nigeria’s currency is the naira and so the pilots should be comfortable with being paid with the currency of the country they are operating in. In his contribution, the Managing Director of OAS Helicopters, Captain Evarest Nnaji, pointed out that every country uses its own currency to transact business and Nigeria should not be different. He argued that any pilot that wants to earn salary in dollars should go to the United States. “We should realise that there is no job now for many pilots so they should not be making such demands because you dictate where you have upper hand; you don’t dictate in a situation where another pilot can be invited to replace you when you do not wish to continue with the job,� Nnaji said. According to him, pilots who are expatriate could earn more because they are not operating in their own country and such welfare would be extended to Nigerian pilots when they are working outside their country. According to him, this takes care of the inconveniences of moving from one country to another and the attendant issues that go with that. “The disparity in salary between expatriate pilots and Nigerian pilots has to be there. The expatriate pilots leave their country and

Nigerian pilots in cockpit

face stringent conditions, so they deserve more. “Nigerian pilots cannot get what they are asking for because it is not possible. They are not being realistic and if they said that they should earn the same salary with expatriates I will work with the expatriates because when they come here they face the job and concentrate and do it. “They wrap themselves around the job. They do not tell you they are going for burial or social outing or request for undue holidays,� he said.

Disparity Sanusi, also spoke on the disparity between pilots and other personnel in the airlines, saying the gap should be managed so as not to breed animosity among other personnel. THISDAY gathered that aircraft engineers have also argued that their job is very critical to the safety of the aircraft and successful operation of flights. According to them, there should not be such a yawning gap in welfare between the pilots and the engineers. In addition, it was learnt that the cabin crew of scheduled flight service and others also believe that they work with the pilots who are the cockpit crew and their work is inseparable because they provide essential service for successful flight operation. They noted that while the pilots manage the equipment, the cabin crew manage the passengers. “The disparity should be managed properly because it can cause misunderstanding with the rest of the industry. “If you say China is paying so well and Middle East is paying so well, it does not make sense paying pilots humongous salary against others who earn less. The big gap can trigger animosity,� Sanusi said.

Comfort Spokesman of one of the major airlines told THISDAY that pilots are given pride of place in any airline because of the enormous work they do and the long time spent in training and huge cost incurred in doing so. “We pay a lot of attention to our pilots. We have quarters for them, except those who do not wish to stay in the quarters. We provide them electricity 24 hours. “If there is one minute of power outage they will become outraged. We provide them

with vehicles that convey them to the airport. We provide them aides and cook for them. Besides fuel and maintenance, they take the third huge toll on the airline revenue. “In fact, other staff earn peanuts compared to what pilots earn. So we spend millions of naira on their accommodation, their total upkeep and we pay them huge salary,� the spokesman who pleaded to remain anonymous said. However, a reliable source from another airline told THISDAY that the pilots that work in his airline have not made any agitation about being paid in dollars. “I have not heard that from them; that they want to be paid in dollars. It is even against the law. It is only expatriates that we pay in dollars. “Our Nigerian pilots never demanded that they be paid in dollars. We also have not received any grumble from other workers because everybody knows that pilots are paid specially. “They spend so much money on their training. However, cabin crew believe they are being cheated; that they are all crew, so they should be paid equally,� the source said.

Bonding Industry observers said that Nigerian airlines have faced a lot of challenges with indigenous pilots. There was a time domestic carriers relied more on expatriate pilots, which literally created a big hole in their finances because the foreign pilots would work for six months and spend another six months on holidays overseas, with the airline footing the business class ticket for their trips. The country lacked young captains because there was disruption of training pilots beyond private pilot licence since the demise of Nigeria Airways Limited (NAL). According to them, because of this the airlines depended on the residues from the defunct national carrier and augmented with expatriates. The airlines had also made attempts at bonding pilots, whereby they train them and after the training they spend specific time with the company before they would be legally allowed to leave if they wished to. But this was not successful because most of the pilots who benefited from that arrangement reneged, thus putting the airlines in a quandary. THISDAY gathered that the airlines had

sought the intervention of NCAA, which at a time said that despite the bonding arrangement, pilots cannot be stopped from moving to another company whether locally or overseas whenever they wished to. This has discouraged many airlines from training pilots, but very few still do, like Caverton Helicopters, Bristow and Air Peace

Foreign Jobs THISDAY investigation also revealed that many Nigerians who travelled to the Middle East to work for mega carriers earn far much more than they do at home. But recently, a pilot disclosed that the airlines “delude� you into living a life of paradise because with the name of the airlines you get anything you want and pay for it thereafter. “Before you know it you begin to live on credit and at the end of the day you realise that you have saved nothing. Those back in Nigeria are accomplishing a lot of things while we live big and earn big overseas. That is why some of us decided to come back,� a pilot confessed to THISDAY. It is also similar experience for some of the Nigerian pilots that travelled to other parts of the world. Some of them believe that coming back home help them stay with their families. “Many Ethiopian pilots consider it an honour coming home to fly for Ethiopia Airlines, even if they earn less. There is inward satisfaction you get working at home. “You look at whatever challenges in the face and solve them. Working overseas gives you a sense of international tinge though, but I believe you accomplish more when you are at home and you also help more people,� the pilot also said. Sometime ago the former Director General of NCAA, Dr Harold Demuren urged airlines to train more female pilots because female pilots don’t move from one country to another as their male counterparts do. He said that female pilots are eager to settle down and they would like to stay in their country. Outside world beckons on pilots and because they are always in high demand, they often succumb to the temptation of leaving their home country. Industry observers are of the view that the stringent condition is being given by some pilots to Nigerian airlines. But from all indications, the airlines are not likely to succumb to the pressure.

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BUSINESSWORLD

MARITIME

Nigeria’s Unsafe Inland Waterway Eromosele Abiodun calls on the federal government to urgently remove wrecks, dirt, hyacinths that have led to the death of many Nigerians and almost claimed the life of the Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority, Olorunibe Mamora, last month Late last month, the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Senator Olorunibe Mamora, narrowly escaped death on Lagos inland waterways when a floating log of wood hit the boat carrying him and his entourage when he went to inspect the Lagos facilities of the agency. According to a staff of the agency, who pleaded anonymity, “It was a close shave with death as the log of wood, which was floating underwater, hit our boat which the MD was also on board. The incident occurred shortly after inspecting the NIWA CMS office facility, Apapa, Ijora, Oyingbo jetties and the boat was heading towards Osborne foreshore to also inspect Texas connection ferries. “By the time we got to Texas jetty, water was already tricking in into the boat. After inspecting the Texas connection ferry terminal, the NIWA team then called for a change of boat to continue with the facility tour of other jetties across the state, as water inside the boat was already disturbing,� he said. Confirming the near mishap, the Technical Adviser to the NIWA MD, Emmanuel Ilori said the wreck that almost sank the boat was under the water. He said the present management of the authority is seriously concerned about safety and security in the nation’s inland waterways. According to Ilori, “Safety and security of inland waterways is the priority of the present management of NIWA. it is not the only issue of wrecks removal, but causes of the wreck, and that is what we will be looking at fundamentally. “So, to prevent boat mishap on the inland waterways and to be sure that when wrecks are removed they are not dumped into another place where it will become another hazard.� Ilori, who is also the Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Shipowners Association (NISA), said the authority would also survey under the water and place danger signs on the area where there are wrecks. “What we are looking at is to survey the wrecks. It is not only wrecks that we see on the surface alone because we also have wrecks under the water and these are underwater issues. “That is why we say when people remove wrecks; we want to understand how they will dispose the wrecks so it won’t cause another hazard elsewhere. “Don’t forget that the boat the MD was inside going over the wreck, thereby unsettling the boat. The primary thing is to survey the water and identify whatever it is so that we ask boat operators to avoid the area. “Wrecks removal is not the immediate solution but to identify where the wrecks are and begin to remove them and know how to dispose. Also, identify where the wrecks are and mark them so that people are aware of where the danger lies and avoid it,� he said. On the entourage of the MD were: the Area Manager, Lagos office of NIWA, Muazu Sambo, the one-time acting Managing Director of NIWA Danladi Ibrahim as well as journalists.

Needless Deaths Over the years, there have been calls for the removal of wrecks on the inland waterways which contributes to mishaps on the waterways. But nothing was done. As a result, many Nigerians have lost their lives and families traumatised. For instance, in August this year, a boat travelling from CMS to Ikorodu capsized, claiming five lives. The August accident came two months after a May 25 incident in which 24 passengers escaped death when two boats collided and capsized in the Ojo area of the state. The accident occurred at 7:45 pm close to the Ojo Terminal. Twelve passengers were not as lucky on August 20, 2017. They all died in another boat accident in the Ilashe area of the state. It was gathered that the boat capsized shortly after leaving an unauthorised jetty. Similarly, a police sergeant, Mary Adesoba, attached to the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, Lagos, lost her life on October 10, 2017, after a

boat capsized on the Third Mainland Bridge waterways. The boat was en route to Ebute-Ero from Ikorodu when the mishap happened around 10.00 am when it hit a submerged object. The boat that claimed Adesoba, was conveying 21 passengers. Other passengers were rescued by the Marine Police. Also, on May 25, 2016, a woman died after a commercial boat en route Victoria Island, Lagos, from Ikorodu ran into a log of wood and capsized. Twenty-seven other passengers on board the speedboat escaped death with varying degrees of injuries. That is not all. Last month a passenger, Aisha Ibrahim, did not insist on a life jacket. She took the risk, even when everyone in the boat had a life jacket. The journey was from Ojo to Liverpool in Apapa. Few minutes after take-off, the unexpected happened, and she was full of regrets. The boat carrying 20 passengers capsized between Liverpool and Coconut – under the Bridge in Lagos. Three persons were confirmed dead, but Aisha Ibrahim was among the survivors. “I was saved by the His grace. My mind was sealed, I thought it was over, but God said no,�she said.

The Unlucky Ones Not many boat passengers across the country are as lucky as Aisha. Their lives had been cut short due to recklessness and negligence by boat operators. The inefficiency and poor implementation of policies by the government agencies that are mandated to monitor and create smooth sail on the waterways are also unpardonable. River Niger and River Benue constitute the major channels for inland navigation, which include, but not limited to the Cross River, Port Novo – Badagry-Lagos waterways, Lekki and Lagos Lagoons, Ogun-Ondo waterways, Benin River, Escravos channel, Nun River, Imo River, Orashi River, Ethiope River Ugwuta Lake, Lake Chad and the numerous creeks in the Niger Delta. Sadly, high rate of fatal accidents on the Nigerian inland waterways has assumed a worrisome dimension in recent times. Apart from wrecks, dirt, hyacinths, and other non-renewable items thrown into the water are sometimes responsible for accidents on Nigerian waters. All over Nigeria the story is the same. On October 27, about four persons reportedly died in a boat accident in the Ashangwa, Lafia East Development Area of Nasarawa State. One of the survivors, Mrs. Felina Agwale, said the boat paddler was too young to handle the boat. Earlier on October 24, about 20 persons

had died in a boat, which left Logo at 8 p.m. and capsized on the Buruku side of the river Katsina-Ala. Also, on May 25, 2016, a woman died after a commercial boat en route Victoria Island, Lagos, from Ikorodu ran into a log of wood and capsized. Some 27 other passengers on board the speedboat escaped death with varying degrees of injuries. Although, investigations revealed that human factors such as mechanical faults, over-speeding, over-loading, piracy, attacks, collision, are responsible for some of the accidents, natural occurrences like rainstorm and turbulent weather also share some blame. Stakeholders are worried that the agencies saddled with the responsibility of managing the waterways are taking a backseat and less proactive about handling critical safety issues on the waterways. In Lagos, job-duplication between NIWA and the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), continue to mar operations as they battle for control of the waterways. The duo has been at loggerheads since 2008. But boat operators that spoke on the matter said there is hardly any presence of the regulators at the jetties, but only use their discretion to always play safe. A boat operator, Ademola Benson told THISDAY that, “Whenever they (regulators) come, it is always about money. But when you request for any assistance or clearance of waterways, it becomes a herculean task. What we have been doing is to manoeuvre the waterways to avoid wrecks and hyacinths. We know the route, but accidents only occur by mistake or when there is an unexpected wreck on the way. “Help us beg government to dredge the channels, and clear the wrecks and hyacinths so that we can be sure of a safe journey. It is getting out of hand, and it is very sad that we are losing people to this problem,� he said. On his part, a passenger, Akiyemi Adeyemi said:�Water transportation is very interesting but the need for safety is very paramount. Sometimes, people take it for granted, but the implication is that frequent accidents scare passengers away from water transport, and this leads to job loss for operators.�

Insecurity on Waterways It is not just wrecks, dirt, hyacinths and accidents that are prevalent on the waterways, there are also issues of insecurity, which have become a daily occurrence on the waterways. Two weeks ago, the NIWA Port Manager for the Onitsha River port, Mr. Baba Spencer highlighted the issue of security as the greatest challenge of the port facility. This is just as the Onitsha and Warri Area offices of the agency also bemoaned the lack of

functional vehicles, inadequate staff and conflicts with sister agencies as their major constraints in their areas of operations. In a statement signed by the NIWA Spokesman, Tayo Fadile, the Onitsha River Port manager disclosed this when Mamora visited as part of his familiarisation tour of the agency’s facilities. According to Spencer, “Since the inception of the River Port, our mode of operations are strictly port related activities, like the use of port facilities given as slipway, use of the port waterfront and occasional berthing of crafts.� The Onitsha River Port Manager further explained that their major challenge is security. He explained that the collapsed of the perimeter fence by the port slipway and the leased to M & E dredging services as dumpsites have made the port highly prone to security risk. He further called for the reinforcement of the perimeter fence, maintenance of the port equipment, rehabilitation of the dilapidated fire services station and allocation of an operational vehicle which the port does not have at the moment. At the Onitsha Area Office, the Area Manager, Mrs. Uchi Amadi told the visiting MD that the Area Office, in a bid to boost and diversify her revenue base, is reaching out to the public for private partnership to develop and industrialise her floodable plains right of way, and utilization of the Island along the waterways for recreation, Agriculture and Cattle Ranching. She, however, said their major challenges in the area office is inadequate staff, non-functional vehicles, challenges from sister agencies like Ministry of Solid Minerals Development over jurisdiction and the effort of the Authority at recovering some NIWA properties illegally occupied or annexed. On his part, the Warri Area Office Area Manager, Tammuno Fiberesima decried the lack of berthing services, loading and off-loading services, rents of space and warehouse amongst others. The Area Manager said the Dockyard services like the slipway is not operational now as it is undergoing rehabilitation. Fiberesima said:�Our major challenges are lack of functional vehicles, lack of functional boats for revenue drive and general patrol and also lack of adequate staff and training,� In his reaction to all their requests, Mamora said as a team leader, he is giving them his words of encouragement and expect them to put in their best to the growth and development of the Authority. He said the authority will look into their requests based on merit and availability of funds so as to meet up their official obligations. He urged all the staff to rededicate themselves at their place of work and that NIWA will continue to support them.

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Uzu: Some Local Companies Want to be Agents Without Capacity In an interview with select journalists, the Managing Director of Global Process and Pipeline Services Limited, Mr. Obidike Uzu, speaks about local content in the oil and gas sector among other issues. Peter Uzoho presents the excerpts: You are set to inaugurate your new office complex in Port Harcourt. How did the company get to this position? Global Process and Pipeline Services Limited (GPPS) was formed in 2002 but commenced operation in 2010 as a frontline oil services company, showcasing Nigerian indigenous capability on land, swamp and offshore terrains. Over the years, we have built our reputation on professionalism and quality service delivery in the oil and gas sector, without compromising safety and quality standards. We have continued to provide value, reliability, and technically effective solutions to our ever-increasing clientele base. Our critical success factors include, massive in-house capacity in terms of fit for purpose equipment; competent, dedicated and resilient workforce; extremely commendable track records; and unbroken focus in our core areas of competency. Our robust and successful collaborative management style is tied to strict ethical standard adherence. We have encouraged our worker force to own and adopt high safety awareness and environmental consciousness. GPPS currently has the largest in-country pumping, process and pipeline services’ equipment fleet, capacity and competency with uncommon focus within this product service line in Nigeria. Beyond that, our top-down approach to Health, Safety and Environment, fosters a companywide “safety first� attitude suited to the needs of our clients. Obviously, the new office complex and operations base will further enhance our operational efficiency for a superior service quality delivery in line with the highest industry standards and best practices and in accordance with the tenets of ISO 9001:2015; with attendant commendations pouring in for such a young and dynamic company acknowledged by the oil industry giants like - Exxonmobil, Total, NLNG, Shell Companies in Nigeria just to mention a few. We use the most fit for purpose equipment on all our projects. Anyone can rent equipment but using GPPSL equipment means reliability, efficiency, deliverability based on the best in-class industry preventive maintenance standards. What will you say are the achievements of GPPSL since the take-off of the company? We are proud of our rapid growth and this has been attested to by African Business Review report listing us among the top 10 fastest growing company in Africa in March 2014. I can boldly say that we own the largest fleet of resources in Nigeria for our line of business. We have become a superior brand name in the pre-commissioning and pumping industry with numerous awards and we have ramped up our safety and quality operating delivery to the admiration of our clients. We are a great success story of collective collaboration of Nigerian talents that is strategically organised to harmoniously work together for the continuous development of a high standard brand in Africa. GPPSL is the only Nigerian company focused solely on process and pipeline product service line with major projects completed in the deep-water applications and has attracted the best hands in the industry from the multinationals to work for her with an expansion plan into other Sub-Saharan Africa countries. There are accusations that most International oil companies (IOCs) operating in Nigeria devise various means to evade complying with the Nigerian Content Act, but here you are, reeling out names of IOCs who

Engr. Simbi Wabote, for the giant strides recorded under his leadership. They are aggressively propagating the clear essence of local content in creating opportunities and local engagement for very organized and capable Nigerian companies.

Uzu

believe in you? We came from the background of having been employed by IOCs, multinational service companies and now as a service provider, I can frankly tell you that IOCs are happy to patronize competent and reliable local companies once they are sure that the local companies will deliver at acceptable ethical, safety, quality and industry specific standards and best practices. ExxonMobil for instance have greatly supported us from origin with training, positive feedback, and huge patronage which catapulted our growth to this enviable capacity; and also delivering good services to Total E&P, Chevron and SNEPCo. There are times we have shown superior capacity ahead of the multinational service competitors. In one of the cases, we were told that it is not possible for a local company to score higher in technical bid (capacity) than a multinational service

There is no doubt that the private sector and the government have much to do in the area of human capital development. We need to further equip our higher institutions with the millennium teaching aids and curriculum to be in tandem with industry needs

provider, even though we did scored higher. Secondly, some operators are afraid of insurance liability and escalated project cost that may arise if the said local company becomes unable to deliver as required. Some local companies just want to be agents without capacity. Some of these issues are being addressed by the new dynamic NCDMB team who are assuring competent Nigerian companies of patronage, fair evaluation and strict adherence monitoring. How would you assess process and pipeline services as it concerns competency and capabilities of local companies in Nigeria? Despite their unsteady start, locally owned firms continue to play a significant part in the oil and gas ecosystem in Nigeria. There is still depth of competence and capable of local companies in Nigeria for this product service line; however, GPPS has differentiated herself with her top-down exceptionally competent management team. We have attracted the best hands in the industry from the multinational companies to work for us. Our Competency level is very high with unrivalled capabilities. Our strategic focus is foster a culture of continuous learning and competency program for our people development and human capacity enhancement. We have trained our next level managers in some world best institutions like Harvard and Cambridge Universities. We are increasingly becoming the resource base (equipment and people) for this product service line in the Nigeria market. So can we say that GPPS is a product of Nigerian Content initiative? Absolutely yes; we are proudly Nigerian; and a product of the Nigerian Content Initiative. The leading Nigerian company operating on international standards and industry best practice in her product service lines. This is a brand that should be promoted into other parts of the world. I must commend the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) led by the Executive Secretary,

What do you think should be done to deepen local content adoption in the country? The future for Nigeria’s oil, gas and energy industry is very promising comparatively. The sector is relatively open, the regulators, operators and service providers must learn to work with each other and create value under a common and transparent set of rules for years to come. Prior to the content ACT, the local and in country capability was only in a sort of closed environment; and a supportive governance structure did not exist while foreign firms monopolised all the specialist management and technical teams including access to capital. Today, we have increased participation of capable local companies in the sector. More importantly, to deepen local adoption, we should put in place proven systems for monitoring and assessing performance of the local companies; demanding feedbacks from the operators on the performance of the local companies’ post-work completion. We should have an incentive to encourage and drive technology transfer from multinationals to local companies and finally, we need to establish a transparent template for competency and capacity verification; with a repository of in-country database which will form the basis to subject IOCs to use them. Apart from the Nigerian Content Act, do you see any other policy that is helping to shore up indigenous participation in the industry? A logical first step to shore up indigenous participation is the mixing of local and international expertise, consultants and local graduates. In the oil and gas, it is almost the norm to have multicultural and multidisciplinary teams, especially in technical and operations areas. Despite the logic, finding and maintaining the right talent and mix is one of the hardest parts for an oil services firm to get right. There is no doubt that the private sector and the government have much to do in the area of human capital development. We need to further equip our higher institutions with the millennium teaching aids and curriculum to be in tandem with industry needs. In terms of access to capital, given the size, attractiveness, and openness of the Nigerian economy, and fundamentally the NCDMB intervention fund, we potentially have funding options. However, historically the local market has not had the experience in providing funding capital to the process and pipeline services business area and in some cases the banking rules classify us as high-risk ventures because of the fragmented contract structure, although this is changing. Where do you hope to take GPPSL in the near future? Our goal is to turn GPPSL into a global brand, spreading into other countries. We have no doubt that GPPSL would become the obvious market leader in her product service line, especially in Africa. I see GPPSL expanding her foot-print and geography into other Sub-Saharan Africa countries in the nearest future. And in terms of financial success, I see GPPS doubling her current revenue base with massive ramp-up on operational deliverability and efficiency in the near future.

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

Idia Aisien: Positively Showcasing Africa to the World

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COVER IDIA AISIEN: POSITIVELY SHOWCASING AFRICA TO THE WORLD

Idia Aisien, an international model, philanthropist and ARISE TV News Anchor, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism with a minor in Business Administration from American University, Washington D.C. She also has a Master’s Degree in International Public Relations and Global Corporate Communications from New York University. Born 27 years ago to a Nigerian champagne, wine and spirits magnate father and a Cameroonian jeweler and philanthropist mother, Aisien, on graduating worked with Discovery Communications, Fox5 News for the United Nations and had a successful career with Atlas Mara; a ďŹ nancial services company before she decided to join the entertainment industry full-time in 2015 after she quit her job and kicked off a career as a TV presenter. But none of these were fulďŹ lling until when she recently unveiled the International Development Initiative in Africa, the IDIA Project, an NGO, whose major aim is to change the negative perspective about the continent, Africa. In this interview with MARY NNAH , she talks on why she embarked on such project and how she intends to carry through with it. Excerpts: What exactly is this project about? None of the things I ever did in my life before now made sense to me if I could not implement change in my own country and continent. I had all these big dreams of things I was going to do around the world. But I when heard people saying I guess you are so hardworking because in your country you don’t have roads, bridges and schools I got so frustrated. And I would be like you need to go to Africa and see what we have there. But they would say when we google Africa all we see are children who don’t have clothes, poverty, death, terrorism and war and I would say that is not Africa. And another thing that was also common was me telling someone I am from Nigeria and they would ask if know so and so person in Ghana. African is not a country but a continent and I just feel like people have so much to learn about different countries in Africa and the amazing things that are happening – organisations, advocacy groups and many individuals that are doing things that are ground-breaking every day. We have a lot of Africans in the diaspora that do not want to come back because of the negative things they are seeing in the media about Africa. We all know how in the negative light Nigeria and Africa at large, is usually depicted in the eyes of the world, as a result many people around the world feel that Nigeria is a very bad place to be. It is true we have our issues as Africans but there are also parallel stories, as many of these issues are arising, governments in various countries are still breaking barriers every day and there are still people that are doing amazing things. But if keep spreading the negative information, it is still going to incite more negativities. So the way they depict negative things about us, we also need to depict positive things about Africa by telling positive stories about ourselves. So I came up with the International Development Initiative in Africa - the IDIA Project, an initiative project that will capture the good things that people are doing across Africa. With the IDIA Project, we are trying to change that negative aspect about Africa through the media. Instead of concentrating on the bad and terrible aspects of Nigeria and Africa, we are going to be concentrating on the positive aspects of what is happening in Africa. What are those aspects of the positive side that the media seldom report? And how can we appreciate the many progress that is going on in the country and continent that no one is talking about. One of the most amazing things about IDIA Project is that it links the media aspect to impact. Most times, those two parts are often broken, so we either have people documenting things about Nigeria but not doing it right, so that we have so much negative things about Nigeria. So, now we are about shifting away from the negative perspective and document great things that are actually happening in the continent, especially in the areas of social entrepreneurs that are doing great works in education, for start-up in business and also the part of giving back and impact. We would be looking at how to ensure that we multiple the amount of solutions that are in our custody and beyond that, actually portraying this stories so that we can get more investors on board to expand or help those that are already doing great works to stay. The media aspect will impact

and I thought that was very interesting. So with regards to what my peers are doing, I don’t really look at what others are doing, but I am hoping that this will challenge and awaken the spirit of giving back in everybody else because a lot of people don’t like to give back, because they don’t see progress being made. That is why this initiative gives back sustainably, so rather than just carrying a carton of Indomie or whatever it is to you, we are saying, how can we train or partner this person with an opportunity that will help them fend for themselves. We are looking at stuff that will last long term.

Aisien

and also connect people that are doing great works to help them stay. Who is your focus? This particular project is just to motivate ordinary Nigerians and Africans that for a particular person to walk through a successful journey, you also can walk through it, so, every single episode is so well rounded that it took at least three months to shoot each one. We are going to be documenting successful people in Africa. For instance, the refinery that Dangote is building is a very big deal because its possibly going to provide more than 4,500 jobs directly and 150,000 jobs indirectly. What that does is that it communicates to people at Dangote’s level that if Dangote is doing all these for his country, then what are they doing? And then we have an episode on a farmer that started with just subsistence farming, for his family and himself, from there he started expanding and got a huge plot of land, and now he has started farming commercially. Now he started training other farmers; from training other farmers, they now have been able to buy their own plots of lands and they are also training more people who are providing more meals on a commercial scale. In addition to that, this farmer also has one of the largest juice companies in Nigeria. So not only has he created jobs and help his community and also help his family, he has now also changed the way Nigerians think. He has a story because he started very small. This now speaks again to someone that can relate to him that every single person has a part to play. And then in another episode, there is a girl that took 60 hawkers off the street. She didn’t take off and started giving them money because she didn’t have it. What she did was basically connecting them to different people that would train them in various skills so that they won’t have walk on the street again. And of cause when they are trained in those particular skills, they also hired workers themselves. So we are targeting every individual at various levels. You hardly see young people of your age going into a serious project like the kind you are doing now. So what has been the reaction of your peers? Honestly, I have not really spoken to people my age about this. I know a lot of investment bankers and a lot of people that work in banks from New York as well as in London who are saying that they would love to give back but they don’t know credible organisations they can work with and that if I started something like this they would be very willing to partner me so that they could fund various groups

Tell us, what actually inspired you to go into an initiative like this? First of all, I would say I have been inspired mainly by my family. They were always very keen on giving back to the less privileged. I have a lot of people in my family and every single of them, including those that are well to do and those who just have enough to take care of themselves, will go out their of ways to always try to help people around them and I thought that was very important growing up and just seeing that, it doesn’t matter if you have a N100, you can give out N10. So, when I was growing up, we have always done a number of initiatives just by ourselves to the communities. My mother was president Lions Club and my father was always trying to figure out what young businesses or entrepreneur he could help or fund. So I took a note from them as they were huge examples for me. Also over the years I have observed that more people have access to various media channels; and viewer engagement online is growing rapidly but that most content is negative, depicting natural disasters, poverty, political instability, recession and economic downturn. And when I thought about how people were always talking about my country and Africa, they would say Idia, you are from Nigeria, so do you know my friend Anthony from Ghana? African is not a country but a continent. A lot of people don’t know that and so people need to know that there are different countries in Africa. There are a lot of information that people don’t even have about this continent. So it’s a huge investment and a huge project but I think it’s worth it because it is also an exploration project for me because I have learned so much shooting every single episode that I have been able to shoot so far. When I used to work for the United Nations as well as a private equity firm in New York, like five years ago, I had the urge to do something like this that will basically change how people thought or spoke about Africa. I was in school in the United States and it was really annoying like my friends would come to me and would be like Idia are there roads in your country? And it was so offensive because if you look at countries like Mozambique, South Africa and Nigeria, we do have a lot of progress that is taking place. But every time you turn on CNN International, all they depict about Africa are negativities – Boko Haram, death, poverty, corruption, diseases, etc and I don’t think that it should be so. So the idea for this project came up. We are also looking at connecting entrepreneurs with investment bankers and a lot of people in government. But I just do not trust certain platforms and processes and I don’t know where the funds will be going to. I also have capital that I want to use to help businesses to grow but for me, there has

to be certain things in place to ensure that the money is going be used properly. And then I am passionate about education. I am passionate about giving back, but I may not know everything about rape. I have not been in certain circumstances and so I can’t speak of it the way another person who runs a rape organisation can. So what I can do for them is to help raise funds for them. What are the criteria for raising funds for the said organisations? It is just a research on the organisations and then for them to show us what they are going to use the funds for. We would also measure impacts. So it is not really about what they are going to use the money for, but it is mostly about the impact. Are they thinking big enough or are they going to help enough people with that initiative? Has there been peculiar challenge doing this? It is like I am always smiling and enjoying life but it has really not been easy. The first challenge was just getting things done because in Nigeria something that is supposed to take one week, can take three months. So registering the organisation and dealing with people has been a challenge. Another challenge was getting people open doors for us. So the thing that kept me going was persistence. I kept writing to organisations and if they didn’t answer me, after two weeks I will write again and on and on, till they answer me. There is so many people in between that would always want to stop what you are doing. A lot of people are cynical and there is lots of apathy and that is another reason for this project. So getting things done was a big issue. When it now came to funding, in the beginning, I had money in dollars because I was being paid in dollars when I first came to Nigeria. But when you start paying for things and yet you don’t achieve anything from it, it gets frustrating. For example, after you transport your entire team to Bauchi, the person you were supposed to interviewe and had booked appointment with left the office and for the whole day you can’t get him to interview. I had to get a hotel in Bauchi, and I flew six people with me to Bauchi. We were in the hotel in Bauchi for two days before we could get the man to interview. So because of little things like keeping to time of appointment and unpredictable nature of people and things happening, you realise that something you budgeted maybe N20,000 for will turn out to be N40,000. So it got to a point that funds that were set aside for shooting other episodes were used for the episodes that we were shooting. That was when I said I was going to reach out to family and friends and interestingly, a lot of people have been interested in things like this and so they said let’s help you. But now we are using crowd sourcing platforms to expand on this initiative all over the world. Now we are opened to a wider audience and to people who are into investments and are looking for something like this to put their funds in. Also, starting this was very difficult because from the beginning I had a lot of capital from the Investment Banking but I said to myself, I can put a lot of money towards this but there has to be a way to generate funds. And what we want to do was to eventually get to a point where we can go further and fund other initiatives and other groups that are trying to start exemplary things across African. So now we are just at the beginning.

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XTRA

PRESCO Shines at Pearls Awards in Lagos

IDIA AISIEN: POSITIVELY SHOWCASING AFRICA TO THE WORLD How soon is the programme airing and where? The TV episodes start from next year. We couldn’t start it this year because my bosses of course have said we need to launch the project first, before it starts airing. Apparently, we have to start showing in the new quarter. So it makes sense to just start from the beginning of next year. Well, we are currently sitting in the THISDAY office, so it is going to be most likely aired on the ARISE TV. That is the partnership agreement right now. And then after each episode has aired, then we can now start putting it on other platforms. And of course we are going to use the online platforms; we are creating a YouTube platform. We would have 13 episodes a year, one each month and then a final one that encompasses all the episodes for the year. Tell us a bit about growing up? I come from a really big family. We are 12 children and I am number 12. We are eight girls and four boys. My Dad is Mr. Joe Aisien. My Mom is Mrs. Emmanuella Aisien. We are just simple, very simple people. My family is very quiet. We grew up very happy. After high school when I was 16, I went abroad to school and came back at the age of 23. I came back with an international company that I was working for then. I really wanted to be on TV, I had always wanted to be an anchor but I didn’t know how I was going to get there, so I took any opportunity that came to me. When I came, someone offered me a TV job, just like presenting in entertainment and lifestyle. I took the job and was working there and someone saw me and said, why don’t you anchor business? And because the international organisation I had worked for was already in the business sector, it made sense because I had knowledge on the industry, as well as the fact that I always saw myself becoming an anchor but I didn’t know how it would happen. So when was your ďŹ rst job as an anchor? My first job has actually been at ARISE News. I am currently the business anchor. I talk about the global news that is taking place in

Nigeria. I connect to Hong Kong, London and various other places in the world every day to talk about their markets around the world. Before ARISE News, I was with SPICE TV as the Lifestyle and Entertainment presenter for three years. Before that, I used to work for a private equity firm in New York that brought me here. I have also worked at Discovery Channel. Before that, I was at FOX 5 News, Washington DC, during which I studied Journalism and International Business as my first degree at American University, Washington DC. And for my second degree, I studied International Public Relations and Corporate Communications at New York University. What makes your project different from others? I would say our unique selling point is that a lot of people are coming up with initiatives that are wonderful to help various sectors and fields in the society and the country at large, but this one is not just measuring those initiatives. It is also documenting those initiatives. I am not necessarily giving back, I am also documenting people that have given back and I am using the media as a tool. So it is completely different. What have you learnt during this process? I have learned that it is not easy to do anything and that it is very easy to get discouraged along the way. I have learned that if you are persistent and if you have actually started it out of passion, it is easier to stay. And this has definitely changed my life because rather than go partying and shopping all the time, I finally feel like I have a purpose – something that I have been given to do, where I can help other people. My focus and priority have changed, like I have scaled down on lavish vacations because I feel that I have to save a lot of money for my project and then I have got to learn a lot along the way. What is your advice to young people? I would advise them not to give up on themselves and their dreams, neither should they be discouraged because anything is possible. It is hard but it’s possible. Life is hard. Life has hit me but my goal is

ČŠ ÂœČą ČąÂ Â’Â—ÂœČąÂ–Â˜ÂœÂ?ČąÂ˜ÂžÂ?ÂœÂ?Š—Â?’—Â?Čą ȹ™›’£Ž Jonathan Eze Presco PLC was the toast of the night as it won the coveted prize of sectoral leadership award in Agriculture at the 23rd edition of the PEARL Awards Nigeria held at the prestigious Eko Hotel in recognition of its dynamic management and initiatives in 2018. The category had Livestock Feeds PLC and Okomu Oil Palm Plc among others but Presco was adjudged the winner. However, the biggest award which was the 2018 Pearl Most Outstanding CEO of the year award was won again by the Managing Director of PRESCO PLC and Country Managing Director (Nigeria) of Siat Group, Belgium, Mr. Felix Onwuchekwa Nwabuko, to the admiration of the large gathering. According to the organisers, under his leadership, Presco plc witnessed monumental growth in revenue and profit as well as other key performance indicators thereby culminating in the company’s emergence as sectoral leader. In the words of the President and Chief Executive Of Pearls Awards, Tayo Orekoya, Presco has become a force to reckon with in the Agriculture sector. Its turnover increased significantly from N15.7billion in 2016 to N22.3billion in 2017 while the gross profit rose from N11.3billion in 2016 to N16.4

L-R: Managing Director, Presco Plc, Mr. Felix Nwabuko: former President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mrs. Nike Akande, and past Chairman, Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, handing over Pearl Sectoral Leadership Award in Agriculture to Presco Plc in Lagos...recently

billion in 2017, while the shareholders’ funds also increased remarkably by about 46 per cent. In an interview with THISDAY, on the sideline of the awards, Nwabuko said he felt encouraged and motivated because the award recognises hardwork and and to the extent that Presco has been recognised as the sector leader shows that notice has been taken about the hardwork we have been putting in delivering what we have been delivering so we feel encouraged and motivated. When asked what he has done differently that culminated into the increased turnover, the MD said : “I have not done anything special, I think what

has happened is that when I arrived, I tried to look at what strategy would drive us forward at least in the first five years of my being in that role because Presco is on the path of success. “I worked out strategies and had full support of the chairman and the board and also had the partnership of the team and we have been driving, we have been pushing on all fronts and we have been able to reach our targets. “These awards will spur us to do more, it will spur me to do more, knowing that the world is out there watching and knowing also that in this award, there is no politics in it and it is impartial. “We have credible people who looked at things the way

they are. White is white, black is black, so being a recipient and the company being recognised in this way spurs us to keep doing what we are doing and even do more and create values in the country.� Nwabuko dedicated the award to the Almighty God and his colleagues. “You know a tree does not make a forest. It takes the collective efforts of all of us. I am playing a role there but everyone has a role to play. We are like one body. “The eye has got its role to play, the hand has got its role to play, so also the mouth, teeth, tongue, legs, limbs and so on. I am also dedicating it to them. We are in it together. We are all working together,� he added.

UK-based High Street Fashion Brand Launches in Nigeria Mary Nnah Hype and Steam, a United Kingdom-based online fashion retailer, officially launched operations in Nigeria on Friday, November 16, 2018 with an exclusive runway show and after party at the Hard Rock CafĂŠ, Victoria Island, Lagos. Looking to bring the latest global trends to fashion enthusiasts in Nigeria at affordable prices, the high street brand has commenced full operations in Nigeria, with a delivery turnaround time of between one to five days across the country - a welcome alternative to foreign online platforms with long waiting periods and exorbitant shipping costs.

L-R: Founder Hype and Steam, Nitesh Sakhrani and Business Head, Hype and Steam, Mrs Adebola Ukaiwe on the stage giving the welcome address at the oďŹƒcial launch of the company Speaking at the event, Business Head, Hype and Steam Nigeria, Mrs. Adebola Ukaiwe, stated that the fashion retail brand is committed to providing the best service to the Nigerian market by selling en vogue, quality clothing items and accessories

at affordable rates. The launch event, compered by Maria Okan, including appearances by Mimi Onaloja, Titi Oyinsan and Olumide Oworu amongst others, was definitely one of the fashion highlights of the year. Guests were treated to pop-up

sales, a live performance from Vector Tha’ Viper, and a runway show that showcased over 40 flagship outfits. Hype and steam, is a leading online high street fashion brand house, founded in London that provides a range of high street men and women fashion apparel and accessories. Our mission is to add passion, style and value to your consumer experience, empowering today’s millennial generation to access the most hyped up brands at the most affordable prices. Whether you’re searching the latest catwalk looks, or you just desire to wear something stylish but understated, Hype and Steam is your ultimate fashion destination most affordable prices.

Loyola House Retains Championship in Interhouse Competition Sunday Ehigiator For the umpteenth time, Loyola House, proved its worth again by emerging the overall champion for the third consecutive time, in a keenly contested 2018 St. Francis Catholic Secondary Schools inter-house sports competition. At the event, which was recently held at the school’s premises in Idimu-Lagos, the house won a total of 26 Gold, 14 Silver and 16 Bronze

medals, Loyola house ousted other rival houses; Cusimano House, Olorunfunmi House, and Assisi House, who emerged second, third, and fourth position respectively with 22 Gold, 13 Gold and six Gold medals apiece. This year’s occasion as chaired by Mr. Bunmi Jacobson was unlike the previous, as it had in attendance the first ever Nigerian Olympic Games Gold Medalist in Atlanta 1996, Chief Chioma Ajunwa-Oparah, whom in the spirit of sportsmanship,

cheered all the athletes with her words of encouragement and experience as the games commenced. In his welcome address, the School administrator, Rev. Fr. Maduabuchi Leo Muoneme said, “2,000 years ago, St. Paul, using an athletic metaphor, proclaimed. “In 1968, a Tanzanian long distance runner John Stephen Akhwari travelled from East Africa to Mexico to represent his country in the Olympics games. He did not return to Tanzania with a gold medal, but he did his best in the race.

“During the race, he fell, bruised his shoulder, and dislocated his right knee. After receiving some treatment, he strode on, even though he was now behind the runners. He walked, ran, and limped till he came into the Olympic stadium at dusk after many spectators had left. “As he entered the stadium, there was a thunderous applause from the few remaining spectators. They applauded with the admiration for the courage, commitment, and heroism of Stephen Akwhari.

“When the media asked him why he had to go through such excruciating pain when he knew he would be last, he proclaimed, ‘My country did not send me 5000 miles to start the race; they sent me 5000 miles to finish the race’. “As I welcome everyone to the St. Francis World of Champions, I encourage everyone to finish the race. This is the day we celebrate bravery, courage, tenacity, discipline, motor skills, and coordinated actions. Regardless of whether you win a gold or bronze, finish the race.�

Meanwhile, the school’s Director of Sports, Mrs. Eucharia Ihedioha, said the day was really a great one for the school and students especially with the presence of Chioma Ajunwa. She said, “The students are lucky to have such a wonderful sport personality here with them today as she has spoken to them a lot about how to go about their different careers in sports and likewise promised to be available whenever she is called upon to train them on how to use our sport facilities�.

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E-TRENDS

MUSIC SHOWBIZ

‌Your weekly entertainment delight

NOLLYWOOD

Battle For Supremacy at AFRIMA

‘Akwaaba’ (GuiltyBeatz, Mr. Eazi, Patapaa and Pappy Kojo). Following closely was Ghana with seven wins including Song of the Year for ‘Akwaaba’ (GuiltyBeatz, Mr. Eazi, Patapaa and Pappy Kojo). Once again, top Ghana sensation Stonebwoy knocked out his rival Shatta Wale in the category of Best Artiste/ Duo/Group in Ragga/Reggae/Dancehall. Other Ghana topshots who also took home awards include Sarkodie for Best Male Artiste in African Inspirational Music and M.anifest ft King Promise for Best Artiste/ Duo/ Group in African Hip-hop.

Vanessa Obioha

A

pparently, jollof rice isn’t the only rivalry between Ghana and Nigeria. The two neighbouring countries have been at war on whose rice specialty tastes better. Now, music has also been thrown into that mix. This was very much evident at the recently held All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) held in Accra, Ghana. The awards saw Nigeria and Ghana clinching more awards than any other country represented in the music event. Nigeria however took home most of the awards including the Artiste of the Year won by the ‘Fia’ crooner, Davido. The artiste also took home the award for Best Male Artiste in West Africa region. It is the second time the artiste is winning in those two categories. In 2014, he emerged the Artiste of the Year and also the Best Artiste in West Africa. For the second time, Mavin star Tiwa Savage won the Best Female Artiste in Nigeria award. She was the winner in this category at last year’s edition. Praiz, The X3M music artiste was among the winners of the night, clinching the trophy for Best Artiste in African R&B, while Mr. P, the other half of the defunct P-Square won in the category of the Best Artiste in African Dance/Choreography.

Sir Shina Peters Davdo

Falz on the other hand emerged the winner of the Best African Rapper and Lyricist. 2Baba who also performed at the event took the trophy for the Best Artiste in

African Pop for his song ‘Amaka’ ft Peruzzi. Overall, Nigeria dominated the award with nine wins, including the award for the Best African Collaboration for

When Music Stars Dazzled Fans in Onitsha Vanessa Obioha The Chuba Ikpeazu Stadium in Onitsha came alive recently as popular Nigerian music artists took to the stage to thrill the crowd at the fourth edition of the Hero Lager fiesta. Popular artists like Duncan Mighty, Timaya, Harrysong, Omawunmi, Reekado Banks and Rudeboy, one half of the defunct P-Square, performed their popular songs as they celebrated with Hero Lager, a premium brand from the stable of International Breweries. Performing a wide variety of hits, the artistes sent the crowd into a wild frenzy as fans sang along and cheered them for more. As a brand that has always represented the South-east of Nigeria, the music fiesta themed the Bridge Edition, was aimed at identifying and elevating major landmarks that typifies South-east which the Niger Bridge epitomises. This edition of the music

Rudeboy

fiesta was also significant as it connected the brand with its teeming consumers and customers. Speaking at the event, Marketing Director, International Breweries, Plc., Mrs. Tolu Adedeji said every year, the Hero fiesta attracts thousands of fans who are loyal to the brand and appreciate what it stands for. “We made the decision to make Onitsha the venue of our annual fiesta as a way of appreciating the acceptance and the loyalty enjoyed by

Hero Lager Beer and it gets bigger and better with each passing year. We hope to continue bringing so much value to our customers and maintaining the good relationship.� Launched into the Nigerian market in August 2012, Hero Lager Beer worked its way into the hearts of consumers in the Southeastern region who christened the beer ‘Oh Mpa’, in reverence (Mpa means father in Igbo

language). It was recently knighted with a new crown cork -a Red Cork and with the title of “Dike Mba Nile.� In addition to the fiesta, more winners emerged in the HEROnaire mega promo, a reward scheme that offers consumers above the legal drinking age with N1 million for eight weeks over the next two months. “Hero Lager is always glad to put a smile on the faces of its consumers and we are looking forward to rewarding even more consumers across the country, giving people the opportunity to win big and become HEROnaires,� said Sales Director, International Breweries Plc., Godwin Oche. Hero fiesta is an annual music extravaganza put together by International Breweries to celebrate its customers for their patronage and loyalty, while identifying with the culture and the traditions of the people, particularly those residents in the South-eastern part of the country.

Just as in the jollof war, Nigeria is still showing dominance in the music arena. It is a known fact that Nigerian music is the most recognised sound in Africa. Artistes like Davido, Olamide, WizKid, Patoranking, Tiwa Savage, Yemi Alade are famous round the continent. To be sure, Ghana has her own reigning musical kings. The likes of Sarkodie, M.aNifest, Wiyaala are making the Gold Coast proud. But as pointed out by Rab Bakari, a renowned music businessman during the African Music Business Summit, Ghana fails to promote her stars beyond the country. A high percentage of music played on airwaves are mostly foreign as stated at the summit. For Ghana to win this musical war with Nigeria, her artistes must go beyond collaborations with Nigerian and other African acts and promote their music on every given platform both locally and internationally.

Music Icons to Gather at the Temple for The Monarch Experience Vanessa Obioha After staging the successful ‘Sunny On Sunday’ concert in 2016 which celebrated Juju icon, King Sunny Ade’s 70th birthday and spurned the record-breaking auction sale of his Fender Telecaster Guitar, leading creative agency, Temple Management Company (TMC) is set to present another timeless live concert. Tagged ‘The Monarch Experience’, the concert will bring on stage some of Nigeria’s most celebrated music icons like Kwam 1, Onyeka Onwenu, Sir Shina Peters, Queen Salawa Abeni, Bright Chimezie and Gloria Ibru. The iconic acts will present a cocktail of eclectic genres such as Fuji, Juju, Highlife and contemporary Afro music through stellar live performances. According to Mark Redguard, Head of Entertainment of TMC,

‘The Monarch Experience’ offers more than just entertainment. “With Sunny On Sunday, we delivered a live music concert experience of world class scale that can be taken anywhere in the world. We have put in more work because we have set a higher standard for ourselves from what we achieved previously. “The end goal is to raise the bar with The Monarch Experience and indeed deliver a memorable event that everyone will be proud of. “It will provide the right ambience for socialising and HNI networking. We envision that it has been a busy year for everyone and concert presents the perfect atmosphere for people to reward themselves with an unforgettable experience.� The concert is scheduled to hold on Saturday, December 8, at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

August Meeting to End Tour in December Vanessa Obioha The stage play, ‘The August Meeting’, would be closing its city tour in Aba on December 2. Produced by Raconteur Productions with the support of The Ford Foundation, the play which depicts the historical revolt recorded as ‘The Aba Women’s Riot’ is centred on the aftermath of the riot, as the women of Oloko led by ‘Nwanyereuwa’ come together to stand up to the oppression of a patriarchal system and demand for equality and equity in the society.

The cast of August Meeting

The August Meeting kicked off it’s 10-show nationwide tour in Lagos on the November 18, 2018 at Freedom Park as part of

the Lagos Fringe Festival, making it exactly 89 years since the first August Meeting after the Aba Women’s Riot in 1929.

Directed by Kenneth Uphopho, produced by Chioma Onyenwe and written by Paul Ugbede, the play was well received, met

with applause and mirth. “The August Meeting is a play born out of the idea that feminism in Nigeria is not a new construct and is

rooted in our history, there are women who stood for what was right and fought together for equality. “Unfortunately, history is not being taught in our schools anymore, so there is an urgency to use this medium to remind us of who we are as a people and what we can achieve together� explained producer, Chioma Onyenwe of August Meeting. The play casts Gloria Anozie-Young as Nwanyereuwa, Inna Erizia, Odera Orji, Ijeoma Aniebo, BellaRose Iyere-Okojie and Deola Gimbiya.

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E-TRENDS

Boomplay, Universal Music Group Signs Distribution Deal Vanessa Obioha Africa’s leading music streaming and download service, Boomplay and Universal Music Group (UMG), recently signed a landmark licensing agreement covering multiple markets within Africa. UMG is the first major music company to license its catalog to Boomplay, which has quickly established itself as the most popular streaming service in Africa. Under the terms of the multi-year agreement and effective immediately, Boomplay will distribute music from UMG’s worldrenowned labels through its streaming and download platform in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda and Zambia. Boomplay currently provides more than two million songs and thousands of music videos to more than 36 million users, with nearly two million new users added each month. Users will now have access to UMG’s extensive catalog of both local and global recording artists including Eminem, Tekno, Post Malone, Nicki Minaj, Lady Zamar, Lil Wayne, Bob Marley, Brenda Fassie, Wurld, J.Cole, Dr. Tumi, Nasty C, 6lack, Diana Ross, Hugh Masekela, Jon Bellion, Larry Gaaga, Tamia, Maroon 5, Aka & Anatii, TJAN, Jah

Prayzah, Nonso Bassey, Mafikizolo, Cina Soul, Ella Mai,and Mr. Eazi. With the launch of Universal Music Nigeria — a new division within Western Africa to provide artists with comprehensive opportunities throughout the region and to provide pan-African talent the best possible launch pad for wider international success — UMG is accelerating the company’s focus on growing the entire African music ecosystem including recorded music, music publishing, production, live events, brand partnerships and merchandising efforts. In making the announcement, Universal Music Group, Executive Vice-President, Market Development Adam Granite said, “We’re looking forward to working with Boomplay as we provide our African artists a range of creative, marketing and promotional resources to accelerate their careers within this vibrant and growing music market. This agreement will help UMG artists to reach new audiences, whilst boosting the African streaming experience to benefit both music fans, artists and songwriters.� “This partnership extends our reach and makes our artists’ music accessible to

Kirk Franklin, Travis Greene, Others to Headline The

Kirk Franklin

Vanessa Obioha

Boomplay CEO, Joe He

millions of African music lovers. We are delighted to be the first global music company to partner with Boomplay and look forward to bringing the extraordinary creativity of our artists to as many Africans users as possible,� said Ezegozie Eze Jr., General Manager, Universal Music Nigeria. Also commenting, Boomplay’s CEO, Joe He, said Boomplay will continue to forge partnerships that enriches the digital ecosystem and connects music lovers with their favorite songs anytime and anywhere. “Boomplay is determined

to continue meeting the music passion point of Africans in a legitimate way, especially Boomplay users, and teaming up with a major music company in the global music industry like Universal Music Group, offers yet another significant opportunity for us to do so.� The Boomplay App, which is currently only available for Android users, is scheduled for release via iOS in the coming weeks. In addition, new Boomplay users will be able to obtain a free onemonth subscription when they opt in for a monthly auto-renewable subscription plan.

Harrysong Brings the Pulse to DELSU

International gospel artiste, Kirk Franklin, will be performing at the annual gospel concert organised by the Rock Cathedral, ‘The Experience’. Now in its 13th year, the concert will feature both local and international artistes like Don Moen, Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin, Timi Dakolo, Travis Greene, Nathaniel Bassey, , Vicki Yohe, Chioma Jesus, Tope Alabi, Eben , Tim Godfrey, Mike Aremu, Glowreeyah, Onos, Eno Michael and Chee. Also for the first time, this year’s Experience will feature JJ Hairston, Planetshakers and ADA. The Experience started as a thought inspired by God in the mind of the Metropolitan Senior Pastor of all House on The Rock churches, Pastor Paul Adefarasin and is now unarguably the most anticipated gospel music

event in Africa among Christians and nonChristians alike. Averaging a yearly attendance of over 500,000 people at the venue, with millions more watching online from all over the globe, it has grown to become the biggest gospel concert in the world. This year edition themed ‘Jesus, Our Peace’, according to Adefarasin, is to highlight who Jesus is, especially in the world we live in today – the Prince of Peace. He stressed that regardless of the outcome of the forthcoming elections; peace is the ultimate candidate that we should all support, and must be the candidate that wins. “Peace (as I know it) is not the absence of tension but the presence of Justice,� he said. The concert according to him will be a continuous reminder that the God of Peace is with us. In its tradition, the concert will hold on the December 7, at the Tafawa

August Meeting to Close AFRIFF’S Lagos Fringe Showcase Vanessa Obioha

Harrysong

Sunday Ehigiator The MTN Pulse Invasion has been delivering its promise of creating a movement of unapologetically daring and bold young people. The latest school that hosted the Invasion was the Delta State University where the students were given a four-day treat. One of the biggest highlights was the visit by Harrsong, popular

Nigerian singer, who surprised the students. The Pulse Invasion had begun in the school three days prior with games and fun activities at the Sales Village. Professional photographer, Jide Odukoya and Life strategist, Steve Harris led the Pulse Talk Series — a motivational session where heavyweights from various fields and sectors get to share their life experiences By the next day, DELSU

was ready for the customer forum that allowed them to speak freely on their experiences as customers of the brand and offer suggestions on improving their customer experience. The Pulse District, which opened its doors soon after, was the party hub for the students to relax, dance and dance some more. After all these, the students couldn’t wait for the Celebrity Surprise and were thrilled when the Gala singer started off

with his hits. There was no song that the exhilarated students didn’t know off hand and they sang along with the singer whose energy reverberated through the crowd. The euphoria in the air was infectious and even at the end of the show, the excitement did not wane as students sang happily as they left the grounds. to be released sophomore studio album titled “Life Is Easy Volume 2, Lagos to London� on November 8.

Chioma Onyenwe’s latest production August Meeting will be closing the Lagos Fringe Showcase at the ongoing African International Film Festival (AFRIFF). The play written by Paul Ugbede, and directed by Kenneth Uphopho, takes a critical look at the steps taken by the women of Oloko of the famous Aba Women’s Riot, after the war for total liberation. It highlights the story of the women of Oloko and their leader Nwanyereuwa as they demand for control over their lives and battle age old customs that relegate women to the background.

Onyeka Onwenu

August Meeting examines themes that are extremely topical such as gender equality, women participation in politics, monopolised power, women as second-class citizens, motherhood, family and domesticity. It highlights the problem with patriarchy and the need for women empowerment. The production boasts of top class actors such as Gloria Anozie-Young who plays Nwanyereuwa, Bella Rose Okojie, Ijeoma Aniebo, Inna Erizia, Odera Orji and Deola Gimbiya. The August Meeting will be screened to the Lagos audience on November 18, and will tour Abuja, Enugu, Awka, Owerri, before closing in Aba on December 2nd.

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NEWS

SNEPCo/NNPC Partners Stephanie Linus’ Foundation Stories by Mary Nnah A total of 25 women formerly living with Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) have received free repair surgeries, giving them a chance to live normal lives again. This life-changing event was carried out courtesy of a recent Extended Hands Foundation’s pool effort in Sokoto State sponsored by SNEPCo/NNPC. Since its inception, the goal of the Extended Hands Foundation founded by star actress and producer Stephanie Linus, has been to restore hope and put smiles on the faces of women. For some years now, the foundation has been focused on helping women with VVF– a serious disability that can be experienced by women after childbirth – and giving them a chance at living normal lives through free repair surgeries. With a generous sponsorship from SNEPCo/NNPC, the foundation completed the successful repair of 25

Stephanie

VVF patients at the Maryam Abacha Women and Children (VVF Hospital) Sultan Bello Rd, Sokoto. All the repairs have been completed successfully and the women are recovering well. The team of medical staff

was led by Dr Sa’ad Idris, a seasoned VVF Surgeon and former Commissioner for Health in Zamfara State with over 20 years experience in the field. He was assisted by Dr. Halima Bello, a VVF surgeon;

Chief Medical Director, Dr Lawal Bello; Chief Matron, Hamsai Abdullahi Wisso, and other doctors and nurses at the VVF Center. As noted by the medical team, most of the women who were repaired had very complex cases of fistula resulting from botched surgeries carried out on them by inexperienced doctors. Some of the women had damaged wombs and tubes which caused a continuous involuntary discharge of urine into the vaginal vault. These women had been living with this condition for a varying number of years and finally got dry after the surgeries. Against the backdrop of her Child Bride and Fistula advocacy movie, DRY, Linus has been taking the message of restoration and hope to real women suffering from VVF. This pool effort goes a long way to show that DRY is more than just a movie, but a tool for touching the lives of women actually living with this condition.

Rotary Club Provides Support for Less Privileged Rotary International has strengthened its partnership with Indo Eye Care Foundation in Lagos to provide some healthcare support for the less privileged. They donated a hospital that would specifically care for the needy in the society who have problems with their eyes. The hospital which is still an on-going project is a brain child of the Rotary Club Lagos Palm-Grove Estate, in partnership with Indo Eyecare foundation and Indian Communities. The long standing relationship has birthed a host of healthcare projects over the years which includes cataract surgeries (about 1,500 a year), distribution of eye glasses (750 a year), distribution of artificial limbs, health camps amongst others, all at no cost to beneficiaries, who are mostly under privileged Nigerians. The eye hospital which is as a result of the overwhelming demand for eye related treatments is believed to have a far reaching effect as opposed to bringing in a team of doctors to the country annually. The hospital, which aims at helping the under privileged is expected to carry out its first round of cataract operations in the last quarter of the current rotary year. The hospital is said to have a state-of-the-art operation theatre for conducting eye surgeries alongside an outpatient department, as well as departments for screening and optometry. The belief is that the hospital

Day Orange Global Achievement Awards Shut Down Port Harcourt It was fun and excitement last weekend during the second edition of The Orange Global Awards (OGAA), which took placate at the Aztec Arcum, Port harcourt, the Rivers State capital. Themed ‘Redirecting The Course of Our Youths’ the event witnessed dignitaries from all walks of life including the Royal Father of The Day, His Majesty, King Leslie Eke, the Eze Gbakagbaka, Nyerisi Eli Woji, Paramount Ruler of Woji Community and Evo Kingdom gracing the event. At exactly 5pm, the Red Carpet kicked off with guests networking while they sipped champagne as they were interviewed by the Red Carpet hosts and at exactly 7pm, the event proper kicked off. Hosted by Angel Attah Aka Angel D Laugh alongside Ms Fortune Wosah, the event also witnessed beautiful music, dance and comic performances from Port Harcourt’s brightest stars and the OGAA song was performed by David Legend. In her welcome address, Loveth Ogedegbe, enumerated on how the world now has the largest generation of young people in it’s history. Calling on stakeholders to engage them positively, she also used the ooprtunity to thank sponsors and congratulated winners. Awards were given in 17 categories and winners include Buzuzu Construction Limited, Adano Engineering Limited, Webster Global Ventures, Ocean Water Marine & Oil Services Limited, Titan Nigeria Limited, Galaxy 360 Media, M. Saleh who won Entrepreneur of The Year and Mixology of the Year award winner, Mrs Iyalode Alaba Lawson among others.

Victorious Army International Holds 10th Annual Convention Ake Ayodeji

L-R: Major supporter of Indo Eye Care Hospital, Dr. Jinesh Dugad: Assistant Governor, Rotary Club , District 9110, Rotarian Ramesh Biswal and Rotary International President, Rotarian Barry Rassin

once in operation, will bring revolution in the healthcare zone for the under privileged Nigerian communities. Speaking at a meeting with members of the club, Barry Rassin, the Rotary International President commended its members in the country on their commitment towards the growth of the foundation. “Your dedication and support to our foundation is truly remarkable. You have a commitment to the Rotary that is making a difference. When you touch a life, you change the future. We are a force of nature we have heart and the direction to make our world a better place.� Rassin stated that the

country has one of the highest growth rates of any of its districts in this year and charged its members with responsibility of growing its membership strength. An increase of members to up to 70,000 from about 30,000 currently available on the continent, would earn it a permanent membership of the board. The president who said he is proud of its members in the country for their drive towards the eradication of polio said that the Rotary centre in Lagos would eventually be the Rotary centre for Rotary in Africa. “The young members are priorities because we recog-

nise that they are the ones that would lead us into the future. We want you to stay with Rotary for the rest of your lives.� Rassin said the younger members of the club are very vital to helping the foundation reach its goals and as such programs are developed to help build the leadership skills of the Rotractors and the Interactors. Yinka Babalola, Rotary International Director, stated that its members are highly committed to the body and as such are one of the top 20 contributors to the projects of the body worldwide with donations ranging from 1.2 - 1.6 dollars annually.

Mwanga Africa Candles Sell out at Launch Event the founder said: “I am just

Founder of MWANGA Africa, Omoyeni Disu, hosted a very influential gathering of Lagos’ finest at the Civic Center, Victoria Island, to celebrate the launch of her luxurious scented candles and diffusers, Mwanga Africa. It was a double celebration as the guests celebrated the launch of Mwanga, as well as

HRM Eze Onyebuchi Bakaba receives an award at the just concluded Orange Global Achievement Awards in Port Harcourt

Disu’s birthday, which happened to be on the same day! Guests got an opportunity to test their sense of smell with great scented candles such as “Caramel Popcorn�, “Hazelnut Coffee�, “Cream Brulee� and more. Highlights of the event included the official commissioning of the brand, the

showcase of the founder’s documentary film, and the serenading of the guests by talented singer and songwriter Waje. The candles sold out before the event was over, making record sales for the brand since its inception. Speaking on her birthday and the launch of her dream,

elated about the turnout of everything and so glad about the great feedback since inception. MWANGA is here to stay.� Guests were treated to mouth-watering canapes and champagne while they engaged in beautiful conversations.

The Senior Pastors of the Victorious Army Ministries International, Apostle Joseph and his wife, Blessing Agboli, have said that the ongoing 10th annual convention tagged, ‘Fulfilling your Glorious Destiny’, was meant to liberate members and the generality of Nigerians from the afflictions of poverty, hardship, barrenness, sorrow and pains in all ramifications. At the 10th edition of the annual Bethel Victory Convention which started on Tuesday, November 27 to December 2, 2018, Apostle Agboli said it is for the fulfilment of destiny of everyone. He said: “It’s a gathering where every affliction is turned to glory. We have great men of God ministering at the programme to move people forward into their destiny. All these people are coming to bring with them the power of God to also bring the fulfilment of destiny.� Speaking on the theme and expectations from the event, he said the theme revolves around God’s ability to back everyone to fulfil destiny. He added that the event will be all round testimonies of greatness and divine intervention. “We are expecting all round fulfilment after this convention. We want those that are barren to bear children, those that are poor to prosper, those that are single will get married, promotion and glorious testimonies. “This convention will be a preparation of glorious Destiny as against 2019. We are also praying that come 2019, Nigeria should be on the right path,� he said. Speaking further on Nigeria’s destiny, Apostle Blessing Agboli noted that its everyone’s duty to come together to fulfill it. “By the time we come together, we will definitely move this country forward. There are people with glorious destinies. There are people who are at the top that has slacked the economy of this country. “Nigerians are not lazy, rather they are intelligent. The problem Nigeria have is to allow our people function. 80 per cent of professors in Manchester and UK are Nigerians. “Its not about having glorious destiny or not. It has been given by God already but we need someone to ignite it, to wake us from slumber of remembering that we are glorious people,� she said. Ministering at the convention are Apostle Joshua Talena, Apostle Tim Gbasha, Apostle Paul Odola, Apostle Ryan Lestrange, Tim Godfrey, Praise Machine; Tope Alabi, Laolu Gbenjo, Woli Agba and Kelvin Sapp.

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ART WEEKEND

‌For pure art enthusiasts

ArtWithinthePrisonWalls

Yinka Olatunbosun reports on how women championed artistic expression in inmates during a three-day intensive art workshop held at Ikoyi Prison in Lagos

F

or visual artist, Clara Aden, born Elizabeth Omolara Adenugba, taking art out of the studio to unconventional places is one of the hallmarks of a sociallycommitted artist, so it was no surprise when she decided to embark on an art project for inmates in Nigerian prisons. However, access to the prison would have been a hurdle if she had not met a like-minded person in Olusola Osibo, the head of psychological services at the Nigerian Prison Service, Ikoyi. Aden and Osibo would not have known they needed each other until their paths crossed recently. The former is the Founding President, Beyond Borders Artists Association of Nigeria, who wanted to do a life-changing art project, while the latter needed a self-funded project to bring reforms to inmates at the prisons. As we approached the prison’s gates on the first day of the workshop, we realised that, screening on entry was not restricted to visitors. Even the staff are screened to ensure that no one carries any banned item. After ridding us of all bags, phones and camera, the prison guards walked us through an open field where inmates all turned, staring at us in wonder on the first day of the workshop. Lawyers, prison pastors and missionaries are common sight but not this team with drawing and painting materials. Little did the warders at the prison know that Aden infused courage in some of her team mates, who were initially reluctant to go to the prisons. Outside the hall, young men in their early 20s or late teens and a few others in their 40s and 50s looked worn: some in dirty, torn clothes walking around or sitting down with distressed looks on their faces. Washed clothes littered everywhere, from the flower beds to the floor, the trees and the prison walls. The sight was heart wrenching. While a few were well-dressed in ironed clothes and polished shoes, there was a larger population of scruffy-looking inmates milling around. That disparity, according to a prison source, comes from each individual’s family support system. “Get away from the window,’’ barked Efe, a senior inmate who was registering participants inside the hall whilst scanning the windows for other inmates who might not be well-intentioned. It wasn’t long that the Head of Psychological Services Unit, Mrs. Olusola Osibo, a mother-figure for the inmates, joined the collective. She had collaborated with Aden on this project, which had been approved by her unit as it aligned with some of the unit’s objectives. Away from the art workshop, she revealed how she had started the same unit at the Kirikiri Maximum Prisons about 14years and six months ago, before she was redeployed to the Minimum Security Prisons in Ikoyi, where she has been working for two years. “They need these programmes for their mental stability. Some of the programmes are designed for behavioral changes for those on short prison terms. They acquire skills to treat their maladjustments and to empower them. That’s called occupational therapy,’’ she said. Of course, occupational therapy using art is widely believed to be effective in improving the emotional function of inmates. For young offenders, art therapy can equip them with basic life skills that can improve the chances of rehabilitation. Osibo established the art and crafts sub-unit of the prison’s psychological services. The unit has a collection of bead accessories such as clutch bags, belts, keyholders, necklaces and earrings made by inmates. The raw materials are mostly bought with funds from her personal purse. Apart from encouraging the inmates to create and exhibit their works, she also instituted a reward system for

A display of works of inmates at the prison art exhibition

(Centre) Clara Aden and her team of facilitators at the end of the art workshop in prison

An untitled painting by Stanley Onuoha

A painting by Nature titled, “African Beauty�

hard work, good conduct and display of exceptional talents. “Efe has only been here for six months and he is the Headman,’’ she revealed to her bewildered reporter-guest. Efe had such control over the other inmates that it was difficult to believe that he is actually one of them. Although Osibo said that the entertainment unit is vibrant, it was discovered that the situation typified that of “too many MCs, not enough mics’’, as the number of musically talented inmates outweighed the available instruments. The keyboard, just as the prison television, is just an installation, no longer in use. THISDAY investigation revealed that some of the inmates are in prison custody for charges of murder, armed robbery, stealing, financial fraud and debts sometimes less than N50,000. Regardless, a lot happens behind the bars to cause depression to a new inmate and some of these may not be known to the prison authorities. There are over 50 cells in the prison and each cell, according to an inmate has between 60 and 100 inmates. Not every inmate has a bed. Another source at the prison revealed that on arrival at the prisons, inmates experience an initiation night called, “Nara’’ where the new inmate is beaten by other inmates severely and made to eat some faeces. The prison food is prepared well to make the inmate appreciate the value of freedom. There is “Sapa’’, soup made with soya beans instead of egusi with little bitter leaf to eat with eba. Also, it is normal to find stones in rice and beans. For us, part of the experience was to share in the special prison food, jollof rice and chicken on the last day. A glance through the window to the cell opposite was inevitable during the workshop. An inmate tucked his hand into

his boxers and dug in deeper till it was uncomfortable watch and then brought out some money to buy some snacks. Apparently, the underwear is the safest place to keep some money in the cell. On the last day, some of the inmates felt more comfortable to talk about their personal thoughts expressed in their works with this reporter. One of them, from a royal family, has been an inmate for five years. Called the Prince, he made a painting of a man with broken shackles to depict freedom and another depicting the jam sessions at the prison. “Prison has inspired me. Some suspects never had this opportunity, but if you can make it to prison, your life can be reformed. If I had been killed before getting here, I wouldn’t have had this opportunity,’’ said the Prince, who was recently voted as the disciplinary officer by other inmates. Before his imprisonment, he had studied architecture at a university in Houston, Texas, married with children. He is now divorced. Another inmate, Stanley Onuoha, 52, used to trade in art and had sold artworks to galleries at the international airport and five-star hotels. But he thought it was a stressful job at that time and relocated from Lagos to Abia state where he started working at a construction firm. He has been remanded in prison for almost a year before he could connect with his family, about a month ago. Nobody visits him. “The churches bring food, medical aid, and bread to all the inmates about 3969 of us. It is art that gives me joy even without money. It gives me the means to express myself,’’ he said while showing this reporter a painting depicting a man in prison who was imagining that his wife is having a love affair. He is one of the top

three finalists at the exhibition. The inmate who signs his works with the name, “Nature’’ is a quiet yet prolific illustrator. He is one of the top three finalists at the exhibition with an astonishing talent. With the work titled, “Lighthouse’’, he offers a ray of hope while another painting of his titled, “African Beauty’’ was inspired by his mother’s struggles to get him out of prison. “I had been beaten many times as child by my parents for using my exercise books to draw. Right now, art makes me happy and I can show my family that I did something worthwhile while in prison,’’ he said. The third finalist, a sailor by profession, KabiruAdeyemi got into prison in 2016. He dedicated his painting, “Beauty of a Woman’’ to his wife who visits him every month. In retrospect, Aden remarked that the prison project was initiated when one of the Beyond Border artists, Ogunlesi revealed that he had been at a correctional facility 10 years ago and that an art workshop like this had changed his life for good. Aden, a mother of four, described her experience at the prison as fulfilling inspite of the challenges of her being a woman working with inmates with misdemeanors. She made an illustration with one of the inmates as her model to depict life behind the bars. “I wanted to be outside the hall for the live art demonstration but the prison warden warned me that they have limited security outside the hall. I have a free mind, I believe that in every bad person, there will be something good. I heard a lot of raunchy comments from the inmates but I concentrated on the work,’’ said Aden. In preparation for the closing ceremony and exhibition, the hall was decorated by an inmate named Uche. A rousing acapella song titled, “Thank you’’ was performed by an inmate called Edward while another, Isioma delivered a well-paced acoustic song, “We Love You’’ in appreciation of the workshop facilitators. Tolu Ogunsakin, the Deputy Comptroller in Charge of the prisons, who was represented by SP Olenloa, offered words of encouragement to the inmates and the workshop facilitators. He referred to the words on the wall as a constant reminder for inmates dealing with a broken spirit. The words read: I’m in prison but my heart and mind are free.’’ “I want to commend the inmates for their willingness to participate. This programme is not a jamboree. Let’s develop our inner eye to value our art so that others in turn can value it,’’ he said. He also commended Osibo and Aden on this prison project, presenting certificates and art materials to the top three finalists. Invariably, these women have deconstructed the societal stereotype of women as victims by being the heroines of this prison project.

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34

FERTILITY

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

FIBROID AND FERTILITY(Part 2) CAN FIBROIDS DECREASE FERTILITY? Fertility is the natural capability to produce offspring. As a measure, fertility rate is the number of offspring born per mating pair, individual or population. Fertility differs from fecundity, which is defined as the potential for reproduction, (influenced by gamete production, fertilization and carrying pregnancy to term). A lack of fertility is infertility while a lack of fecundity would be called sterility. Infertility can therefore be defined as a condition of the reproductive system that prevents the conception of children. Most people will have strong desire to conceive a child at some point during their lifetime. Understanding what defines normal fertility, it is crucial to helping a person, or couple, know when it is time to seek help. Approximately 5% - 10% of infertile women have fibroids. Their size and location determines whether fibroids affect fertility. Examples include fibroids that are inside the uterine cavity (submucosal) or very large (>6cm in diameter) within the wall of uterus (intramural). Fibroids may affect female fertility. Women with fibroids and partners should be thoroughly evaluated to find other problems with fertility before fibroid are treated. A Fertility Specialist/Gynaecologists can help to assess if fibroids might be hampering conception or not. HOW FIBROIDS CAUSE INFERTILITY There are several ways which uterine fibroids can reduce fertility in women r 'JCSPJET UIBU DIBOHF UIF TIBQF PG UIF cervix can affect the number of sperm to be able to enter the uterus. r $IBOHFT JO UIF TIBQF PG UIF VUFSVT can decrease the number of places an embryo can successfully implant or reduce uterine space needed for embryo

development. r 'JCSPJET UIBU CMPDL UIF GBMMPQJBO UVCFT can make the journey of a fertilized egg to implantation difficult or impossible. r #MPPE ĂĄPX UP UIF VUFSJOF DBWJUZ DBO be affected. This can decrease the ability of embryo to stick (implant) to the uterine wall or to develop. r 5IFZ DBO JNQBDU PO UIF TJ[F PG UIF lining of the uterine cavity or decrease the blood supply to a growing embryo thereby resulting in miscarriage. If you have fibroid and are trying to get pregnant, it is important to discuss it with your Fertility Specialist/Gynaecologists whether the fibroids are in places that might prevent conception, or are in places that could cause complications in pregnancy. If so, removing fibroids to improve the chance for conception and pregnancy may be recommended to you. FIBROID IN THE UTERINE CAVITY Fibroids in the cavity of the uterus, also known as submucosal fibroids, can be a cause of infertility. In a normal pregnancy after fertilization occurs in the fallopian tube, embryo develops and move to implant in the endometrium

(inner womb lining), the presence of a fibroid occupying the space for implantation possess a threat to normal implantation and development of embryos in which case the fibroid may have to be surgically removed . WHAT HAPPEN TO FIBROIDS DURING PREGNANCY Fibroids are found in 2% to 12% of pregnant women, but not all fibroids get larger or cause problems in a pregnancy. If fibroids grow, it usually does so in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. WHAT CAN HAPPEN WITH FIBROIDS DURING PREGNANCY? The biggest concern in pregnancy is whether the fibroid will increase the chance of preterm birth or miscarriage. In some cases, fibroids can outgrow their blood supply and cause severe pain. Hospitalization might be required in some cases. Also fibroids can change the baby position in the uterus (womb). This can increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm delivery and cesarean section. If a woman conceives after having a fibroid removed, she should discuss this with the obstetrician who will deliver the baby. HOW CAN FIBROIDS BE DIAGNOSED? Physical Examination: Large sized fibroids may be diagnosed by your doctor through abdominal and pelvic palpation. Fibroids may be felt as smooth or irregular, nodular mass resembling the feel of a pregnancy. Ultrasound scan: is a non-invasive and highly tolerable procedure which is capable of revealing the location, the numbers and size of the fibroids Hysterosonogram (HSN): a less invasive procedure which allows visualization into the uterine cavity. This may be helpful in making diagnoses for fibroid inside the endometrium. Your doctor may recommend further

ADJUVANT THERAPY FOR FIBROID MANAGEMENT Dietary changes can help as well r "WPJE FYDFTTJWF SFE NFBUT BOE IJHI calorie foods. r "WPJE PS MJNJU BMDPIPM r 0QU GPS GPPET IJHI JO GMBWPOPJET green vegetables, green tea, cold-water fish such as tuna or salmon, and take high fiber diet r (FU FOPVHI 7JUBNJO % r .BOBHJOH ZPVS TUSFTT MFWFM BOE losing weight if you are overweight has also been found helpful in the management of symptoms of fibroids Uterine fibroids are common and can affect fertility in different ways from fertilization, embryo implantation, pregnancy outcome, growth and positioning of the baby. Your Fertility specialist/Gynaecologist will examine you carefully to determine what treatmentoption best suites you

with LEKAN FATODU

Overscenes

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test based on the outcome of the basic investigations. MANAGEMENT OF FIBROIDS Several factors will be considered in deciding treatment options for patient with Fibroids and they include; r 8IFUIFS UIF GJCSPJET BSF TMPX PS GBTU growing r 5IF TJ[F BOE MPDBUJPO PG UIF GJCSPJE r 8IFUIFS UIF XPNBO JT DPOTJEFSJOH fertility in the future or not TREATMENT OPTIONS MAY BE: r .FEJDBM NBOBHFNFOU VTJOH ESVHT and injectable r 4VSHJDBM NBOBHFNFOU XIJDI includes open myomectomy or the endoscopic approach which does not require outright opening up (laparoscopy and hysteroscopy). For women with symptomatic fibroids who do not desire future fertility, options such as Hysterectomy (removal of the womb) may be an option.

lekantodu@yahoo.com 08060140882

Of 1,500 Nigerians in Italian Prisons and Greener Pasture Seekers

he other time, we got wind of the UK government’s plan to build a special wing in the Kikiriki Prison in Lagos, so that Nigerians who are serving jail terms in different UK prisons could be transferred to Nigeria to complete their terms. Similarly, the German government recently revealed that it was challenged on how to handle over 30, 000 Nigerians who are to be repatriated to Nigeria over illegal immigration and other related offences. There are certainly more Nigerians, who are still languishing in immigration centres and prisons in different countries around the world for various infractions, whose circumstances would never get to the public. So it didn’t come as a surprise when the Italian government, through its Ambassador to Nigeria, Stefanou Pontesilli, recently announced that there were 1,500 Nigerians in different prisons across Italy. In fact, the Italians basically said that their capacity to keep these offenders was overstretched. As such, they asked the Nigerian government to come to UIFJS SFTDVF #VU BT NVDI BT UIF DBMM GSPN Italy may have stemmed from a place of sincerity and concern for the welfare of Nigerians, though prisoners, it is also, quite unfortunately, misplaced – going by the situation in Nigerian prisons. According to the statistics revealed in March 2018, by Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau, not a few prisons in Nigeria are grossly overcrowded. “What I saw in Port Harcourt prison was gory because the prison has no rooms, but just serving as warehouse for the over 5,000 inmates accommodated in it instead of 800 inmates designed as capacity for the

Illegal immigrants

prison,� he lamented. He revealed, in addition, that the Kirikiri Maximum Prison in Lagos, which was built to accommodate 956 inmates, was UIFO IPNF UP 0G DPVSTF UIJT QSPCMFN of overcrowding has led to many more like rapid deterioration of facilities, poor feeding, congestion amongst others. #VU UIFO UIF QSPCMFN QSPCBCMZ XPVMEO U be so intense, had the government been up to one of its major responsibilities, which is to ensure dispensation of justice within the shortest possible time frame. According to a report, March 2018, by the New Telegraph, 68 per cent of the inmates in Nigerian Prisons nationwide at the time were awaiting trial. “Many of these have been incarcerated for a longer time than the time they would have served if they had

been sentenced,� the report said. This same disregard for a person’s right to fair hearing and timely justice is what the Nigerian government metes out on Nigerians in diaspora. It’s indeed disheartening to reliably gather that many of the Nigerians in prisons abroad have found themselves behind bars over offences committed out of sheer ignorance and desperation to use illegal documents to eke out a living. Their circumstances are usually compounded by the absence of support from Nigerian missions abroad, which, themselves, are suffering from lack of organisation to fight for good causes to benefit their citizens in foreign lands. Hence the stories, more often than not, end in sorrow. However, that so much has been

reported about the terrible experiences of many Nigerians abroad with little or no help from relevant government authorities from Nigeria doesn’t mean that Nigerians of good conscience and influence should cease to amplify the need for justice and help for hapless citizens abroad. While it is well known that the Nigerian government presently has its hands full, not with Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) running into millions amongst many other issues begging for its attention, it still needs to do something quickly about this unfortunate development in Nigerian prisons and the state of Nigerians serving terms in prisons around the world. There must be renewed outrage through peaceful protest; and calls for relevant government authorities to wake up to their duties, and create better working relationships with foreign countries, where Nigerians reside and travel to, for the improvement of Nigerian missions and embassies in such lands to effectively serve its citizens in diaspora. Also, as an essential proactive measure, government at various levels in Nigeria need to commence an aggressive awareness scheme to sensitize citizens on the danger of unplanned migration and the rules of foreign lands especially the countries most visited by Nigeria. Finally, to those who still seek greener pastures overseas, make sure you seek the legitimate routes first and watch before you jump in order not to land in jail.

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COLLAGE EVENTS

Godwin Aruwayo ‘One Chance’ for December 2 Popular Naija FM On-Air Personality, husband and father of three,

Cynthia Dalatu Keneth weds Joseph Niyi James in Living Faith Church, Jimeta, Yola, Adamawa State...recently

Godwin Aruwayo will be celebrating 40 years on earth and 10 years on radio come Sunday December 2, 2018 at the Muson Centre, OnikanLagos, from 5pm. He has also birthed an idea aimed at giving back to the same industry he sprang from. A project and initiative tagged ‘One Chance’, a one day platform for the showcase of various talents, where the winner carts away the sum of N1million and numerous endorsement deals. Speaking on the ideology behind the project, Aruwayo said; ‘’As the name suggests, it is a platform I was inspired to create to give talented Nigerians a chance to showcase their talents to the world, the chance to win a cash prize of N1million and explore multiple opportunities. “My life has been about taking chances, proving my worth and making the best of opportunities, so this is my way of giving back in celebration of my 40 years on earth and 10 years on radio. “The proceeds from the event, is what we hope to use in making the prize money available.’’ The OAP who won the Sports Presenter of the Year Award in 2017 at the Wonderland Awards for Excellence, the On-Air Personality of the Year Award (Male) in 2018 at the City People Magazine Music and Entertainment Awards said his colleagues in the entertainment industry have been quite supportive and will also be gracing the event. Artistes billed to perform in support of the project are; Kcee, Mr. P, Niniola, Patoranking, Reekado Banks, Mayorkun, HarrySongz, ill Bliss, Small Doctor, Sound Sultan, Ruggedman, Slimcase, Xcellente, DJ Zeez, with DJ Kentalky on the wheels of steel. While comedians like; Seyi Law, Funnybone, Kenny Blaq, Ushbebe, Dan D Humorous, Senator, Ajebo, Pencil are expected for comic relief. On future plans for the initiative, the OAP held; ‘’I hope it turns out to be the start of something great, a platform that helps discover future superstars, take youths off the streets, and help them discover their God given gifts and talents. I also hope that it becomes bigger, more price money and opportunities for more than just one winner. ‘’I intend to continue my work as an influential On-Air Personality. I’ll also be starting my TV show soon and possibly doing more of acting, as well as building the One Chance brand.�

L-R: Senior Finance & Administrative OďŹƒcer, Nigerian Business Coalition Against AIDS (NiBUCAA), Amunume Eshimiakhe; Executive Secretary, Gbenga Alabi; and Programmes OďŹƒcer, Ogbonne Mecha, after a press brieďŹ ng to announce activities to commemorate NiBUCAA 2018 World AIDS Day in Lagos‌ recently YOMI AKINYEIE

One chance

SpiceTVPresentsSpiceLifestyleHonours

L-R: Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina; wife of the General Superintendent, Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Mrs Esther Kumuyi; General Superintendent, Pastor Williams F. Kumuyi; and former Head of State and the Convener, Nigerian Prays, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd) and other dignitaries at the Special National Prayer Service held at Deeper Life Bible Church Headquarters, Gbagada, Lagos...recently KOLA WOLE ALLI

L-R: National President, Etsako Club 81, Barrister Asamah Yusuf Kadiri, presenting relief materials donated by the club to ood victims in Etsako East, Central and Owan East LGA s to the Vice-Chairman Etsako Central and Coordinator of IDP Camps in Edo North, Hon. Kevin Akhigbe, for the aected communities...recently

Spice TV, the number one Fashion and Lifestyle channel in Africa, is set to organise a one-of-a-kind event, the Spice Lifestyle Honours this December. Taking place at Eko Convention Centre of Eko Hotels on December 5, 2018, the Spice Lifestyle Honours will feature live music performances, fashion show, awards ceremony and celebrity appearances all in one night. International recording artiste, Asa will headline the star-studded event in a highly anticipated performance that is sure to thrill guests as she serenades with her soulful voice and hit songs. Other notable artists billed to perform include Bez, Adekunle Gold and Falana. The fashion show will see some of the best designers in Africa showcase their pieces on the runway such as Chulaap (South Africa), Orapeleng (South Africa), Osei Duro (Ghana), David Tlale (South Africa), Kenneth Ize (Nigeria) and Torlowei (Nigeria); creator of the first piece of Couture to be accepted into the permanent collection of The Smithsonian Institute’s National Museum of African Art. Since inception, Spice TV has always been a platform for discovering and propelling emerging talents, the awards night will also feature fresh fashion designers; Pepper Row, Orizu, Red Button and Boy Martin. In addition to the music performances and fashion show, Spice TV will also honour and recognise several individuals for their work in acting, music, fashion, entertainment, style, business, design and more in an array of award categories. It promises to be a night of glitz and glam which will attract the fabulous, the famous and the trendy. “Africa is ready for a grand event like this that combines fashion with music and a runway showcase. Spice is the only African fashion TV network that is at the forefront of pushing the African fashion and style landscape forward. We are ready to stage a beautiful event while honoring those that have been impactful in the industry within the last 12 months�, said Tajudeen Adepetu, Executive Producer. The official host for the Spice Lifestyle Honours is Joselyn Dumas. They will be accompanied by a constellation of Nigerian stars who will light up Lagos nights in an explosive blend of artistry that will keep all on their toes from the beginning till the end. This event is strictly by invitation.

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POTPOURRI

First Beneficiary Emerge from Owosina’s ‘Shot2School’ Project Adedayo Adejobi Bayo Owosina, an advertising practitioner by the day, maintains a regular job as a Creative Director and co-founder with Lagos new agency, The Hook, based in the Lekki axis of Lagos. Through his regular job, he consistently interacts with brands and brand owners. His professional calling has imbued him with the knack for good strategies and uncanny narratives that have moved brands to higher heights in the market. However, when not strategising or churning out copies for brands or his clients, Owosina as an ardent lover of cameras, delights in shooting his way around the country and anywhere his lens directs him. The only caveat for such shots is that they must have or tell stories and a worthy one for that matter. Owosina was on such a spree recently at the densely populated and chaotic Oshodi market, where people throng to eke a living on the endless rail tracks and adjacent streets. Meandering through this intense crowd amidst worrisome Lagos downpour, could be a difficult task. But Owosina like the expert that he is, armed with his camera defied the rains on this fateful day, when spotted his subject. He discovered the untold but all pervasive story of little Mariam Babatunde’s face. And there went his camera’s shutter. As developing cosmopolitan center and economic capital of the country, Lagos has the largest number of people from different tribes, culture and customs but the struggle for success creates a hub of unity among them, Owosina, the documentary photographer reasoned. Among the vast sea of hawkers in Oshodi on his visit was five-year-old Babatunde. She hawks combs, brushes and cellophane bags on the unsafe streets in the area. She does this to assist her mother and her factory-worker dad in their duty to bring food to the table. Showing his intense dislike for her unsafe situation in the unkempt and delinquent populated, he explained that it is unthinkable to find an innocent

Mariam Babatunde’s portrait in the “Shot2school� project by Bayo Owosina

child in an environment people tagged unsafe, even for older ones. “Mariam is exposed to the daily routine of the smokers, drug induced individuals and the red-eyes hardcore guys with deep voices already consumed by weeds. “This little girl is surrounded by the people whose daily lifestyle do not transcend to deserving applause. This undeniably may spell a doom for the child’s future�, he declared. According to him, one cannot talk about a state as large as Lagos without rising concern of threat to lives and properties, adding that with the right education however, lives and things can be re-ordered and put in their right perspectives. It became a challenge for Owosina to help this innocent girl

Osiobe Foundation Bemoans Exclusion of Special Children Olawale Ajimotokan and Udora Orizu in Abuja The Ane Osiobe International Foundation has lamented the neglect of children with special needs from quality education and support from government and the society. The foundation, at its second 2018 outreach, donated texts books, notebooks, and materials to the L.E.A. Pilot Science Primary School—Special Education Resource Centre, Gwagwalada, Abuja to enable the students and teachers engage in smooth learning activities for the academic year. Its lead programme coordinator, Jessy Ante, who represented Dr S.A. Osiobe, the President of Ane Osiobe International Foundation, noted that often children with special needs, are isolated and made to feel as if they have nothing to contribute to the society, adding society should treat them with empathy. “This is another step towards achieving the numerous goals of the foundation. There are still so much, that need to be done to increase the literacy rates in Nigeria. “These children hold up so much hope and enthusiasm for the future, but they are often neglected by society. Our mission is to fuel the potentials in them, and it will be our pleasure to have every one lend a helping hand,� she said.

The lead program coordinator, Ayodeji Falade, noted that the foundation will soon extend the outreach to tertiary education students and empower them to proffer solutions to some of their academic problems in Nigeria and Africa. He said the foundation aims at meeting the sustainable development goals, eradicate hunger and also empower them to embark on researches that will solve academic and other problems. The Head of Special Education Unit, Pilot Science Primary School Abuja, Comfort Demide, also expressed gratitude for the attention given to the special needs children in the school by the foundation. The event was the second outreach the Ane Osiobe International Foundation was hosting this year and the seventh since its establishment in 2015, in honour of Mrs. Ann Eloho Osiobe’s legacy. The foundation is a non-profit organisation established by Ejiro Uriri Osiobe also known as Jiji E. U. Osiobe and co-founded by Nyore Eloho Osiobe, with the mission to increase the public understanding on the benefit of supporting the educational advancement and supporting a child that has the desire in getting a sound education and to provide them with the opportunities that level the playing field.

by giving her the opportunity to be among her mates in school. Off the cuff, the solution that popped up in his head was to use her pictures to raise awareness and generate support for the little girl to enjoy 21st century parenting. Indeed, Owosina’s different pictures of the little girl went online, generated and is still generating reactions with interested people showing concern about her plight and future in midst of such crime ravenous community. The Shot2School project has mapped out plans to produce and sell framed pictures of Babatunde and other very limited edition street shots to kindhearted individuals and in turn, direct all funds to a secured education trust fund thereby ensuring she stays in

school. For now, she is back in school and not just any school! The beneficiary’s mother, Balquees Babatunde expressed joy at the “God sent help�. However, Owosina’s concern is to make the project sustainable and to benefit a lot more children to ensure a better future. Hence, the documentary photographer has stepped up #shot2school initiative by partnering Young African Leaders Education Support Initiative (YALES). YALES is a leading advocate for children and youth- trapped in the four walls of public secondary schools, school drop outs and street kids. Its 2018 project cuts across 35 schools in Lagos and targets 3500 students/ teenagers. The group is led by Temitayo Owosina.

DJKaywisePresents JoorConcert2019

YALES Initiative finds a strategic fit with Shot2School as it gives opportunity for the initiatives to target and address the issues of moral reorientation among children before they become teenagers and young adults. The #Shot2School initiative is one at a time project. “It’s only when we are certain that she has enough fund fixed for her primary education, only then we’ll take on another beneficiary. The recruitment to the project has to be organic�, Owosina declared. Apart from the production cost, all proceeds from the sales of the portrait pictures go into the education trust fund. As pioneer beneficiary, Babatunde is bound to open the door of opportunity to other children on the streets.

RoyalMalcInt’ltoOrganise RoyalBabyAwards

Peter Uzoho

Ugo Aliogo

Top notch music icons comprising Davido, Mr. Eazi, Olamide, Mayorkun, Tiwa Savage, Slimcase, Mr Real and many more have been lined up to thrill over 25, 000 youths in Lagos at the 2019 DJ Kaywise’s Joor Concert. The yearly event holding January 12, 2019 at the Abesan mini Stadium, Ipaja, Lagos, also has a lineup of leading Disc Jockeys (DJ) like DJ Neptune, DJ Consequence, DJ JimmyJatt and many others certified as performing guests for the eventful night. “Joor Concert is planned to be a concert where I give back to the street and the populace at large for engaging with music and also appreciating their passion for Nigerian indigenous artiste in the cause of the year. “We bring all artistes who are raving during the year and also next-rated artistes who wish to use our platform to be thankful to their fans,� DJ Kaywise said in a statement made available to THISDAY. According to him, the three previous editions had enjoyed a very high level of participation and engagement within Lagos and has recorded over 12,000, 17,000 and 20,000 attendees within the first three years.

Royal Malc International will be organising the royal baby awards competition in partnership with project Emvirtue Network. Speaking to journalists in Lagos, recently, the Chief Executive Officer, Royal Malc International, Uju Anyaegbu, said the royal baby award is a photo competition for babies within the ages of zero to three years. She also noted that the award is designed to celebrate the precious moments of infancy and the joy of childhood and parenthood, adding that it was conceived on the idea that, “we all can amount to greatness at any and every stage of life.� Anyaegbu explained that the competition would be done through SMS and online voting, adding that there are three stages of elimination before the winner emerges. She further stated that the contestant with the highest number of combined sms and online votes at the end of the last stage becomes the royal baby of the year 2019 and would be crowned at a live main event. The Royal Malc Int’l CEO added that registration would commence on De-

DJ Kaywise

“That has given us the boost that our music event has come to stay. Joor Concert aims at getting lots of Nigerian youths and talents involved in entertainment and also ensures the brand becomes one of the biggest music concerts in Lagos that can host all level of artistes within Africa and around the world, � he said. The fourth edition of Joor Concert which has been positioned to be one of the biggest music concerts in Nigeria would be hosting thousands of Nigerian youths in having a funfair relationship with their favorite celebrities. Activities of the Joor Concert include Meet & Greets, autograph sessions, musical performances and freestyles, Rap Battles, comedy and many more.

cember 1, at 9am and end on December 30, at 11:59p.m, noting that the competition would begin from 9a.m January 1, 2019 and end with the grand finale on March, 30, 2019. According to her, “a total of four million and an extra 1,000 will be won in this competition. This is huge considering the fact that we just tuned up the stakes beyond what others are doing. “The winner will go with N1.5 million cash prize. The first runner up will go home with N1 million and the second runner –up will go home with N500, 000. “Other categories to be awarded include: great personality-N100, 000; alluring smile-N100, 000; most fashionable-100,000; most distinquished-100,000 and most viewed Youtube video-100,000. “We are confident that this project will serve as the veritable first choice in children empowerment across the country and we are determined to deliver a free, fair and transparent and excellent contest that we can all proud of. “We have received videos from those in the rural areas. At the moment we are working to get sponsors from baby centric organisations.�

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ENTREPRENEUR

DebisiOmoniyi:Ideas,PassionDrivesMySuccessasan Entrepreneur Ă?ĂŒĂ“Ă?Ă“ Ă—Ă™Ă˜Ă“ĂŁĂ“ Ă“Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă’Ă“Ă?Ă? âĂ?Ă?Ă&#x;ÞÓà Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă?Ă?ĂœËœ Ă&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ ͝͞͸ Ă?Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă‹ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă—Ă™ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂŁ ÞÒËÞ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ă‘ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ?Ă? ĂŒĂœĂ‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ëœ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă—Ă™ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?âÚĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ“Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă—Ă?Ăœ Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă™Ă˜Ă–Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ë› Ă&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ ͝͞͸ Ă?Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?Ă˜ĂŽ ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–Ăž Ă™Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ?ĂšĂœĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ăœ ĂĄĂ’Ă™ Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă‹ ÔÙĂ&#x;ĂœĂ˜Ă?ĂŁ Ă™Ă? Ă‹ ÞÒÙĂ&#x;Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă—Ă“Ă–Ă?Ă? åÓÞÒ Ă‹ Ă?ĂžĂ?Ú˛ Ayodeji Ake ĂĄĂœĂ“ĂžĂ?Ă?

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Debisi Omoniyi’s rough journey to limelight started after his secondary education. While in school, he enjoyed drawing beautiful cartoons which made him the centre of attraction. He became popular for his special gift of drawing. Every Christmas, he drew cartoons, made paper masks and hawked to make money for himself. After his higher education, instead of haunting for job, he started a cleaning business where he packed refuse on the street before the advent of Lagos State cleaning services, which turned him to a laughing stock. He was not deterred however as he still held on to his dream. Reminiscing he said: “While I was at school, I used to draw cartoons and every Christmas, I made hats to sell. My friends would laugh at me but then I didn’t care. I hawked these things. Even when in school, when coming from Kaduna, I would buy tuber of yams, put it in the truck and follow the truck down to Lagos. At a point I registered a cleaning business I ran before PSP came up. I packed trash and my friends would just say all sorts of things.� Omoniyi, who is one of the biological scientists Nigeria can boost of, yet chose a marketing job in an insurance company. Roaming on the streets of Lagos, persuading people to buy insurance policies. To him, marketing is a field to gather experiences on how to market ideas to people, which was one of the things that gave him an edge in becoming a successful entrepreneur. Again going down memory lane he said: “It all started about a decade ago. I started as an insurance person but while doing that, you know working on the street of Lagos selling life policies, was so tedious. For the fact that I was able to sell these policies showed me I can do anything because selling life policies is one of the most difficult jobs that anybody would ever take. I broke that barrier. I became so passionate about it and one of the things I did from a pure science background, I started reading journals, learning a lot more about marketing communications. I talked to some people and they told me they want to run some activities in Kaduna, I was asked to run a promo for them. I did that and fortunately, I was able to sell out. Then the real journey began.� In 2009, Omoniyi thought of collating all his knowledge and experiences to start up something for himself. This gave birth Fusion Marketing and Communications. “Before the transition to Fusion 360, for like two years, it was very chaotic because as an entrepreneur, starting a business is very tasking. At a point, you will think you know people and the industry but it was a different ball game. Escaping that route, it was like a desert on its own but we have to get to the other

Debisi

For me, I had no money but the idea was there and I was above to build my passion from it. Everyone needs to know how to strive for success. We have youths that have big ideas and just needs a little drive. Every entrepreneur should strive hard with more creativity and passion

side of the bridge. One thing that kept me afloat was that I was diligent. I got many offers while experiencing all these but I was committed to my passion to start up early. It took me about two years to win any major account which was the Frisland account. Between 2019 and 2012, it was very hectic. There were some many people pitching for the account but I was able to gather my experience. That was the major breakthrough. As we kept on workings with Frisland, some other companies came in and loved our work because I’m a creative person. I like to do what will make the brand exposed in terms of activation,� he said. On challenges facing entrepreneurs, Omoniyi stressed on financing. He lamented there are millions of Nigerians who are great entrepreneurs with beautiful creative minds but lack the financial strength to establish themselves.

He said: “Retailers living in the rural area find it very expensive to go out to buy from the wholesaler. And even if they do, they have little profit margin. Another thing with brand custodians is that they don’t give credit, which is not helping. But here in our company, because we have seen enough, we give credit for not more than three days. But the finance is still the big issue. Ideas and passion drive success. There are people that have ideas but not passion and some with passion but no idea. “For me, I had no money but the idea was there and I was above to build my passion from it. Everyone needs to know how to strive for success. We have youths that have big ideas and just needs a little drive. Every entrepreneur should strive hard with more creativity and passion.� As a successful entrepreneur, Omoniyi said what keeps him going are his posi-

tive mindset and creativity, even when he had a lot of distractions and pressure buffeting him. “As an entrepreneur, I have the passion about success and positivity. Anything that will drag down my positive thinking attitude, I move away from it. Even when I was facing these hurdles, it wasn’t easy as a family man. It got to a point I thought of dusting my CV to get a job but I was just too addicted to my dream. I believe that it’s when you want to hit big that’s when the major hit will come. “For me, when I am so broke is when a payment is about to happen. So in those times, I relax and manage the situation , but in all honesty, there were so many potholes even as at now. But you need to be wary about everything. There were times clients would be on you and you will just be stressed out. I think it’s important to learn to manage people and situations� he said.

38

F R I DAY Ëž ÍąÍŽËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

METRO

‌Your city life in print

Honour for the Unsung Philanthropist Sunday Ehigiatorwritesthatfor SijuadeOlusolaIluyomade,itwasanhonourwelldeservedwhenshewasrecentlyawarded withanhonourarydoctoratedegreeinlawbyAdekunleAjasinUniversity,for herinnumerablehumanitarianandcharitableacts

O

n Friday, November 23, Mrs. Siju Iluyomade, was honoured for her innumerable humanitarian and charitable acts. The honour came in the form of a doctorate degree in law from Adekunle Ajasin University. At the event to honour her were Professor Tunji Abayomi, Pro-chancellor & Chairman Governing Council, Adekunle Ajasin University and the registrar, Professor Michael Sunday Ayeerun. From her citation, it soon became obvious why she was singled out to honour. For years, her humanitarian acts cut across medical outreaches to underprivileged communities to skill acquistion programmes, health fairs, adopting a village scheme, empowerment Asides being a wife, mother, minister of God, professional and leader in many spheres of life, Sijuade Olusola Iluyomade, is a trained lawyer from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile - Ife), with over 30 years of post-call experience. Her formative years were spent at Queens College, Lagos; an all-girls boarding school. Alongside her husband; Idowu Olusola Iluyomade, they co-founded the prestigious law firm, Iluyomade & Iluyomade & Co. in 1987, where she is a partner with interests in commercial practice, international trade finance, mergers and acquisitions, international joint ventures, energy and commercial law to mention a few. She is a member of both the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the International Bar Association (IBA). For her contributions to the development of the legal profession and legal education, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA); Lagos State Branch, Nigeria honoured her with a merit award on June 14, 2017. She is also an advocate on issues relating to sexual offences, child abuse, child and maternal health, and a major pioneer for the girl-child education in Nigeria. Handmaidens Outreach Flowing from a firm conviction in what women can achieve when they work together, Siju, as she is fondly called, pioneered the Handmaidens Fellowship in 1995, which has now become a popular, purpose-driven and multi-generational fellowship that meets weekly to teach and mentor countless women from all walks of life. Testimonies abound of how the Handmaidens gathering have helped many find their purpose in life, as the ministry serves a lifestyle clinic through the impartation of the word of God, thereby empowering women to fulfill their destinies in Christ. The Siju Handmaidens outreach is purposedriven and multi-generational outreach that seeks to provide better life to all in need of it, in every way possible. It has donated eight incubators to the Lagos Island Maternity as well as oxygen gauges, blood pressure machines, diapers, baby clothes, toys etc. In addition, the outreach, in conjunction with the City of David Charity Ball donated a dialysis machine to the Gbagada General Hospital. They also engage in hospital visits and care for patients on admission to encourage and offer support and succour through their ordeals. Still on the platform of the Handmaidens, Iluyomade recently launched the Handmaidens Women in Leadership Series (HWILS). The HWILS is a platform to equip women with the skills, insights, invaluable networking and resources to create economic gains for participants and to propel women to be on the cutting edge of humanities, sciences and the arts. This platform has in a short span of time attracted considerable support from leading women to come together to make progress towards achieving two pillars of the United Nations 17 Sustainable Developments Goals; reduction of illiteracy and gender inequality. She also recently initiated the ‘Born to Inspire Awards’ to inspire succeeding generations of women. Arise Women In 2009, Siju conceived and birthed the Arise Women, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) and the ‘Arise Women Mobile Clinics’, to render free medical care to the grassroots

among others. In these schools, they offered medical care to students as well as teaching and non-teaching staffs. They also provided a generator set to the Rebecca’s room, and a resource centre for the visually impaired students of Queens College.

L-R: Awardee, Dr. Siju Iluyomade; Pro-chancellor and Chairman Governing Council, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Professor Tunji Abayomi, and the Registrar, Adekunle Ajasin University, Professor Michael Sunday Ayeerun, at the presentation of an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Law certiďŹ cate to Iluyomade, recently

and advance women’s health through health promotion, education and advocacy. She is the convener of the annual Arise Women’s Conference; a true national landmark programme, which holds every last Saturday of October, for women from every walks of life. The focus and essence of the conference is encapsulated in its motto ‘Arise for A Woman Today’ so that the women of influence can take the message of upliftment to the grass roots. Arise Women is a phenomenal and household name, which is working across Nigeria to empower women especially in the lower cadre of the society and break the barriers which limits them economically. Arise Women which operates under the slogan, ‘The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world’, believes that women have great power and influence as they have influence over the development of the children and the home. It likewise delivers healthcare services primarily to women and children but not excluding men. It also empowers small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) by providing financial support and skills acquisition to women. To create role models and spread the gospel of women empowerment, she recently launched the Arise Ambassadors Award to deserving women. The Arise Ambassadors are all over the nation, using their sphere of influence to accelerate nation building. Arise Women have embarked on various laudable projects with a particular focus on healthcare delivery to women and children not excluding men. Mobile Clinics/Women Medical Outreach Arise Mobile Clinics; best described as a doctor’s office and clinic on wheels with all the facilities for laboratory services and special medical test, takes free healthcare to the doorsteps of communities across the nation. Most specially; into the hinterland and underdeveloped areas as accompanied by highly committed volunteers and professionals, including, doctors, nurses, pharmacists and laboratory technicians. Arise Women carries out free consultations for diabetes, hypertension, pneumonia, HIV, blood sugar and cervical cancer screening. They have also sponsored surgical repair for 10 women who developed Vesico-Vagina Fistula (VVF) on a Medical Facility called Mercy ships; an international charity. The Arise health-inspired odyssey and lifesaving mission is anchored on three mobile clinics valued at over half a billion Naira. Arise Women offer free medical services every second and fourth Wednesday of the month at its clinics. In addition, the Arise Women have de-wormed about 8,000 pupils under this programme and brought home to the little children, the simple meaning of love and care. Arise started its out-patient clinic at the high-end hospital, Healing Stripes-Dialysis and Diagnostics Centre located in upscale Victoria Island, Lagos. In this well-heeled hospital, Arise opens its doors to women from all walks of life including market women, hawkers, business persons and all and provides them with quality primary healthcare, assures them of an

environment that enables them to comfortably discuss their health challenges and get possible solutions. The Arise out-patient clinic holds on two selected Wednesdays every month. In the same vein, the Arise Women espouse the virtues of hygiene and teach on preventing communicable diseases, health education and the importance of immunisation. Widespread Outreaches Asides the medical outreaches, Arise Women have catered to the dire needs of the internally displaced persons (IDP) at the Federal Government approved IDP camps. It gave out foods and relief materials, and also attended to their medical needs including taking delivery of babies. In Makoko, a riverine area in Lagos, Arise sponsored the building of a school, provided mattresses and mosquito nets. Also, under the Arise Prison Medical Outreach, the Arise Women visited Kirikiri and Ikoyi Prisons in Lagos, where they provided drugs, sanitary items and household materials to the inmates. They also conducted free medical tests and consultations on the inmates. From Ikeja, Surulere, Ebute-Metta, Ilaje, Bariga and Makoko, Yaba to Ejigbo, all in Lagos, the medical outreach continues to illuminate that notion of good work enunciated in God’s manuscript; the Bible, through uncommon and soulful dedication to the wellbeing of the ordinary people. ‘Adopt- A-Village Scheme’ The Arise ‘adopt-a-village scheme’ is undoubtedly revolutionary. The idea is to adopt villages under their initiative for a sevenyear development programme. The Arise women ventured to Dafara, a rustic village on the precincts of the Federal Capital, Abuja. In Dafara, Arise has constructed boreholes, renovated and re-equipped primary schools, built computerised library, provided school furniture, school bags, educational tools and software. In the same village, for the year 2018, Arise is presently constructing a 10-bedroom ultra-modern hospital and a community centre set to be commissioned this November. In Kpaduma, another village on the precincts of the Federal Capital Territory, the Arise women built a school and provided boreholes for the community. In Kobi Village, the Arise women are building a school, and providing a major medical outreach to the village and its environs with the full participation of the men in the village and the village heads. Arise has now adopted this villages for a revolutionary change in the next seven years under their initiative to adopt villages for their seven-year developmental programme. Arise Women, using education, teaching, training and the ‘Arise Module’ as a tool to teach compassion, good neighborliness, tolerance, kindness and other virtues have impacted the lives of thousands of people. Arise women have also initiated the Arise goes to School initiative. The good hearted women have visited Queens College and Methodist Girls High School, both in Lagos

Skills Acquisition Programme/ Health Fair Siju is intentional about strengthening virtues of integrity, strength, fortitude, diligence, hard work, forthrightness, kindness and compassion among other virtues. She considers it a necessity for every woman to be totally accomplished in all she lays her hands to do. Siju speaks with un-vacillating conviction about the promises and possibilities that can be unveiled when ordinary people are given the opportunity to acquire skills. Consequently, under the Arise skills acquisition programme, Arise has recognised the hard truth that, lending a helping hand to the needy is not only about handing over cash but more importantly, teaching and acquiring skills for economic gains. Although delivered free of charge, the skill acquisition programme is intensive and thorough. The women are taken through intensive classes and training sessions. Arise has in its 10 years provided skills acquisitions and empowerment for women by sending them to experts to learn leather works, millinery, baking and through the help of facilitators put thousands of women to work by teaching them soap, pomade and insecticide making, bead making and event planning. At the end of their training, Arise supports these women with modest financial resources and equipment such as sewing and grinding machines, deep freezers and hair dryers among others. The Arise Women’s Conference holds annually on the last Saturday of October together with the health fair where all women come together. At the conference, health checks and consultations; including eye tests, dental checks, fertility clinics, cancer screening centre’s, sickle cell anemia are carried out free of charge on all attendees. They utilise major medical consultants, leading hospitals, and professionals at the fair. Collaboration Arise Women with collective effort and collaboration with wives of top state functionaries and Military Service Chiefs, who are women of great influence and other women bodies including the Federation of International Women Lawyers (FIDA), Police Officers Wives Association (POWA), International Women Society (IWS) and Market Women Associations have with one voice, one vision and purpose, timely advanced the cause of women and the girl child in Nigeria, in line with the vision of Arise. The ‘Arise for a Woman empowerment campaign’ was launched on March 9, 2018 with the aim of empowering business owners with N100,000 to move the business forward. In empowering women, Siju speaks to the psychological and spiritual well-being of their capacity to multi-task and engage in multi-roles, be it the academia, policy making, church ministry, business finances or the sciences. Accomplishments Siju has focused on total wellness and healthy living alongside primary healthcare delivery. She plays host to thousands of participants at the ‘Arise Walk For Life’, a health awareness walk that is held annually. Siju also hosts the annual Redeemers day celebration for ‘All RCCG Schools’ in Region 20 (Apapa Family) and ‘Behind closed doors with Pastor Siju’ designed for singles and newly wedded; where the importance of family life as it impacts career is discussed. She is also an incurable romantic and accomplished author with a collection of poems entitled, ‘Expressions of Love’, and other published works including Spring Time; Snap out Of It; The Women Also; See No Evil, Hear No Evil; Arise magazine, Arise Women and the Handmaidens Monthly Newsletter, among other publications on Christian daily living.

THISDAYt FRIDAY NOVEMBER 30, 2018

39

40

F R I DAY Ëž NOVEMBER 30, 2018

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Yobe Proposes N91.6bn Budget for 2019 Oluchi Chibuzor Yobe State Governor, Ibrahim Gaidam, has announced N91,647,597,000 as the total amount of money projected to be spent by his administration in 2019 to spur the state to greater socio-economic progress. Gaidam gave the figure yesterday at the state House of Assembly where he made a valedictory budget address to the lawmakers and presented the 2019 Finance and Appropriations Bills, tagged: “Budget of Consolidation.� “In this budget, we intend to consolidate on the gains recorded so far by completing all the major legacy projects being executed by our administration before

handing over to the incoming All Progressives Congress (APC) administration in the state. “We intend to hand over to the incoming administration a government that is free from any loan, that is without any uncompleted capital project, and that has a robust civil service to plan and implement any project,� the governor said. The governor said the Yobe State government projects N49,968,967,000 or 54.5 per cent for recurrent expenditure and N41, 678, 630, 600 or 45.5 per cent as capital spending. He said the 2019 budget is slightly below that of 2018. It is N534,739, 000 or 0.6 per cent less than 2018 budget, he said. Gaidam, said the eco-

nomic sector has been allocated N30,635,430,000, governance sector N17,473,893,500, regional sector (covering water supply, environment and housing) N4,431,968,000, law and justice N2, 298,887,000 and the social sector N36, 807,418,500. He revealed that education was allocated the sum of N22,497,645,000 under the social sector. “We will continue to take steps to revitalise education for the progress of our state depends on it,� he said. Education is followed by works, transport and energy at N15,951,223, 000 and healthcare, which has a total of N13,002,338, 000 budgetary allocation.

Polaris Bank Chairman Now Corporate Governance Fellowship The Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria (SCGN) has inducted the Chairman of Board of Directors, Polaris Bank Limited, Mr. Muhammad Ahmad, as a honorary Fellow of the Society. Ahmad, was conferred with the fellowship award at the 2018 President’s Dinner/Induction Ceremony of the Society, held in Lagos recently. In his citation read at the event, the SCGN said Ahmad was honoured in recognition of his professional records in the public and private sectors as well as positive contributions to the socio-economic development of Nigeria. The group described the Polaris Bank chairman as an astute professional with impressive footprints across various public-sector organisations and financial services institutions where he played strategic roles and acted as the catalyst for the entrenchment of good corporate governance. Speaking at the ceremony, President of the Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria, Dr.

Pascal Dozie, said the conferment of the honorary fellowship on Ahmad and three other recipients was in line with the key objective of the body. “The Society is a registered, not for profit organisation and is committed to the development of corporate governance and best practices. “Leadership, accountability, collaboration, diversity and quality, integrity of character remain the pillar of this organisation. Since its inception 13 years ago, the Society has contributed to the development of good corporate governance in this country. “The society prides itself in research work some of which have been published in the journal of corporate governance�, he said. Responding on behalf of the other fellows, the Chairman of Polaris Bank expressed delight at the recognition and said they would continue to remain the ambassadors of professional excellence. “For every society, there are professional standards.

And professional standards worldwide are more onerous. Therefore, for us, we are taking additional responsibility. Having been made fellows, what it means is that we should be consistent; we should ensure that whatever the Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria stands for, we should stand for as well�, he affirmed. Commenting, Group Managing Director/CEO of Polaris Bank, Tokunbo Abiru, said the award was a celebration of the exemplary leadership capabilities of the Polaris Bank’s Chairman. Ahmad boasts of about 35 years professional experience leading and working in various public-sector organisations and financial services institutions in Nigeria. Amongst others, he was the pioneer Director General/ Chief Executive Officer of the National Pension Commission, and also a pioneer staff of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), where he rose through the ranks to become the Managing Director.

Access Bank, Others Seek End to Violence against Women One of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, Access Bank Plc has further shown its support for women through the collaboration of Access Women Network with Genesis House to organise the fourth edition of the annual ‘Orange Lecture.’ The event comes up in Lagos today. The collaboration, according to a statement, is to support vulnerable women who have been sexually exploited with a focus to mentor them, as well as equip them with life and

vocational skills to become selfreliant and productive citizens. “The event is focused on tackling violence against women which has been a problem to people from various regions, countries, societies and cultures, and affecting women irrespective of income, class, race or ethnicity,� it added. This year’s lecture themed: “Hear me too,� has been chosen to lend a voice to the cry for help from the female gender, who have been involved in one

form of violence or the other. Speaking on the collaboration with Genesis House, the Head, Women Banking at Access Bank, Ada Udechukwu said: “Access Bank, in addition to supporting female- owned businesses, is also very interested in the total well-being of women. “Violence against women and girls is a phenomenon without national borders, and a violation of human rights that has far-reaching negative consequences on its victims.�

StarTimes Offers Discount on Subscription Pay TV Company, StarTimes has announced a special 50 per cent discount off subscription rates this festive season for its subscribers. According to the company, the offer kicks off on December 1 and would last till January 31, 2019. During this period, subscribers who renew their subscription for two months would automatically get 50 per cent discount on their second month subscription. Commenting on the initia-

tive, the Public Relations Manager, StarTimes Nigeria, Kunmi Balogun, was quoted in a statement to have explained that: “The Christmas season often come with a lot of expenses hence our reason to make it a bit more bearable by offering 50 per cent discount when you pay for two months. ‘‘When subscribers pay for two months on any bouquet, between December 1st and January 31st, they enjoy 50 per cent discount on the second month plus instant gifts at

any StarTimes business hall nationwide.� He reaffirmed that during the said period, “blockbuster Nollywood movies and those in movies would be aired by its self-owned Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba channels to provide unlimited entertainment to subscribers.� StarTimes covers 80 per cent of the continent’s population with a massive distribution network of over 200 brand halls, 3,000 convenience stores and 5,000 distributors.

L-R: Partner, Africa, India & Middle East (AIM), Financial Services, EY, Paul Sommerin; Partner, Africa, India & Middle East (AIM), Advisory Services, Hennie Human and Partner and Advisory Services Leader (West Africa), Ben Afudego, at an EY interactive session with journalists in Lagos‌ recently

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

MARCH 2018 Broad Money (M2)

24,303,049.86

-- Narrow Money (M1)

10,912,604.10

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,668,378.21

---- Demand Deposits

9,244,225.90

-- Quasi Money

13,390,445.76

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

15,619,134.18

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

8,683,915.68

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

26,267,136.53

---- Credit to Government (Net)

3,823,345.45

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

5,433,209.43

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

-1,609,863.98

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

22,443,791.08

--Other Assets Net

-17,583,220.85

Reserve Money (Base Money)

6,746,646.49

--Currency in Circulation

1,668,378.21

--Banks Reserves

4,357,551.58 Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹

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

March 2018 15.16

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

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

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

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT WEDNESDAY, 28 NOVEMBER 2018

The price of OPEC basket of ďŹ fteen crudes stood at $59.25 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $59.05 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Oriente (Ecuador), ZaďŹ ro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela). SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

41

F R I DAY ˾ NOVEMBER 30, 2018

MARKET NEWS

SEC DG Restates Commitment to Develop Capital Market Goddy Egene The Acting Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Ms. Mary Uduk, yesterday reaffirmed the commitment of the commission to develop the nation’s capital market in line with the 10-Year Master Plan. Uduk stated this while speaking on “Capital Market Master Plan: The Journey So Far,” at the ongoing SEC Journalists

Academy held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. According to her, with 101 initiatives, the commission has the potential to expedite the implementation of the 10 year- master plan. Uduk noted that the market was highly concentrated and dominated by the banking sector which constituted 60 per cent of the market as at 2003 to 2007. She noted that 15 out of 20 most capitalised companies were

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R

DEALS

banks, adding that risk management and corporate governance was not developed enough to support the fast growth thereby leading to inappropriate market behavior and abuse of margin lending. The DG said SEC had focused on leading the market to recovery and part of the recovery plan was the development of the master plan in collaboration with other stakeholders to map out

S E C U R I T I E S

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

strategies to improve key areas especially investor protection and education, among others. Looking at the success achieved so far, Uduk said: “For instance, we have ensured that all share certificates are fully dematerialised. This is to say that physical share certificates are now fully converted into electronic form in Nigeria. This initiative has further enhanced the market efficiency and transparency.

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

“The recapitalisation of capital market operators was aimed at improving the baseline infrastructure of the CMOs, improves their market access and service delivery as well as enable them comply fully with the New Minimum Operating standard set by the commission. These were aimed at helping the market develop robust controls; strong governance framework and effective human capital.”

O F

Disclosed that at December 31, 2016 which was the deadline given for all CMOs to recapitalise, 384 out of 449 CMOs had fully complied, adding that more of them have done so afterwards. She said that the National Investor Protection Fund (NIPF) was established to compensate investors for pecuniary losses, boost confidence and encourage the domestic retail investors back to the market.

2 7 / 1 1 / 2 0 1 8 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

˾ FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018

42

Friday, November 30, 2018

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

ThisDay Afrinvest Sheds 144bps zĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ͕ ƚŚĞ dŚŝƐ ĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ƐŚĞĚ ϭϰϰďƉƐ ƚŽ ƐĞƩůĞ Ăƚ

Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index

ϭ͕Ϯϳϱ͘ϴϯ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ ĂƐ ƐĞůů ƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞƐ ŝŶ ZENITH (-1.1%), GUARANTY (-3.7%), and DANGCEM (-2.6%) dragged the

Ticker

Current Price

ŝŶĚĞdž͘ dŚĞƐĞ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĐƵŵƵůĂƟǀĞůLJ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ĨŽƌ ϰϮ͘Ϭй ŽĨ ƚŚĞ

Previous Current Price Weighting Change

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 1,275.83

index.

ƋƵŝƟĞƐ DĂƌŬĞƚ Closes in the Red for Fourth ŽŶƐĞĐƵƟǀĞ dƌĂĚŝŶŐ ^ĞƐƐŝŽŶ͘​͘​͘ ^/ ŽǁŶ ϭϯϯďƉƐ dŚĞ ůŽĐĂů ďŽƵƌƐĞ ĐůŽƐĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƌĞĚ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ĨŽƵƌƚŚ ĐŽŶƐĞĐƵƟǀĞ

Price Change YTD

Price Change Index to Date

ROE

ROA

P/E

P/BV

-17.3%

27.6%

19.4%

7.3%

5.7x

0.6x

6.7%

1

Guaranty Trust Bank PLC

34.30

-3.7%

21.8%

-15.8%

-15.4%

34.1%

5.6%

5.1x

1.9x

7.8%

19.6%

2

Zenith Bank PLC

23.00

-1.1%

14.1%

-10.3%

-11.3%

23.7%

3.4%

3.9x

0.9x

11.7%

25.3%

3

Nigerian Brew eries PLC

4

Nestle Nigeria PLC

5

Dangote Cement PLC

6

FBN Holdings Plc

-1.44%

Divinden Earnings d Yield Yield

11.5%

79.40

0.5%

6.4%

-41.1%

-41.2%

13.8%

6.4%

26.6x

3.8x

4.7%

3.8%

1,485.00

0.0%

9.3%

-4.6%

-4.6%

85.8%

26.3%

26.8x

20.9x

3.2%

3.7%

185.00

-2.6%

6.1%

-19.6%

-19.6%

20.1%

9.8%

19.3x

4.1x

5.7%

5.2%

6.80

-4.2%

5.2%

-22.7%

-22.6%

6.6%

0.8%

4.9x

0.4x

3.5%

20.5%

7

Access Bank PLC

7.50

7.1%

3.9%

-28.2%

-29.2%

14.1%

1.7%

3.1x

0.5x

8.7%

32.1%

8

United Bank for Africa PLC

7.05

-4.1%

3.6%

-31.6%

-32.3%

15.4%

1.8%

3.2x

0.5x

11.9%

31.3%

15.50

-1.6%

3.6%

-8.8%

-4.7%

12.1%

1.0%

4.9x

0.6x

590.00

0.0%

3.5%

-3.5%

-5.8%

25.9%

15.3%

2.6x

0.6x

3.2%

38.8%

ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ĂƐ ƚŚĞ E^ ůů ^ŚĂƌĞ /ŶĚĞdž ; ^/Ϳ ƐŚĞĚ ϭϯϯďƉƐ

9

Ecobank Transnational Inc

ƚŽ ƐĞƩůĞ Ăƚ ϯϬ͕ϲϭϭ͘ϱϱ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ͕ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ƐĞůů-ŽīƐ ŝŶ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ

10

SEPLAT Petroleum Development C

11

Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC

50.00

ďĞůůǁĞƚŚĞƌƐ - DANGCEM (-2.6%), GUARANTY (-3.7%) and

0.0%

4.2%

20.5%

22.2%

35.7%

4.6%

7.4x

2.4x

2.0%

13.5%

12

Unilever Nigeria PLC

39.50

0.0%

3.0%

-3.7%

-1.8%

24.7%

11.5%

18.4x

2.7x

1.3%

5.4%

FBNH (-ϰ͘ϯйͿ͘ Ɛ Ă ƌĞƐƵůƚ͕ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝƐĂƟŽŶ ĨƵƌƚŚĞƌ

13

Guinness Nigeria PLC

74.00

0.0%

2.2%

-21.3%

-21.3%

8.8%

5.0%

19.9x

1.8x

2.5%

5.0%

14

Lafarge Africa PLC

13.05

-2.2%

0.6%

-70.9%

-70.9%

-53.7%

-7.9%

0.9x

11.5%

-49.7%

5.8%

ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ ďLJ EϭϱϬ͘ϰďŶ ƚŽ Eϭϭ͘ϮƚŶ͕ ǁŚŝůĞ zd ƌĞƚƵƌŶ ĂůƐŽ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ ƚŽ -ϮϬ͘Ϭй͘ ,ŽǁĞǀĞƌ͕ ĂĐƟǀŝƚLJ ůĞǀĞů strengthened as ǀŽůƵŵĞ ĂŶĚ ǀĂůƵĞ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞĚ ďLJ ϭϬϬ͘ϰй ĂŶĚ ϲϯ͘ϲй ƚŽ ƐĞƩůĞ Ăƚ ϰϰϭ͘ϲŵ ƵŶŝƚƐ and Eϰ͘ϱďŶ ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ͘ dŚĞ ƚŽƉ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ďLJ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ǁĞƌĞ UNIVINSURE ;ϭϱϬ͘ϭŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ͕

20.6%

15

Fidelity Bank PLC

1.87

-3.1%

1.2%

-24.0%

-27.5%

11.3%

1.5%

2.4x

0.3x

16

Oando PLC

4.60

-1.1%

1.2%

-23.2%

-23.2%

10.9%

1.7%

3.8x

0.3x

17

Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC

13.10

-0.4%

0.9%

-34.5%

-35.7%

32.6%

16.4%

5.2x

1.5x

13.4%

19.1%

18

Okomu Oil Palm PLC

75.50

0.0%

1.5%

11.5%

11.5%

39.3%

29.7%

7.2x

2.5x

4.1%

13.9%

19

International Brew eries PLC

30.75

0.0%

0.5%

-43.6%

-44.1%

24.6%

7.4%

32.2x

7.3x

20

Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC

20.00

0.0%

0.5%

-31.0%

-31.0%

7.6%

2.3%

6.9x

0.6x

5.1%

14.6% 18.9%

3.1%

21

Transnational Corp of Nigeria

1.11

-3.5%

0.5%

-24.0%

-25.0%

13.6%

3.0%

5.3x

0.7x

1.8%

22

UAC of Nigeria PLC

10.00

0.0%

0.4%

-40.8%

-40.8%

0.4%

0.2%

78.7x

0.4x

6.6%

23

Diamond Bank PLC

0.66

-9.6%

0.3%

-56.0%

-58.0%

-5.8%

-0.7%

24

Total Nigeria PLC

-14.5%

ACCESS ;EϱϬϯ͘ϬŵͿ ǁĞƌĞ ƚŚĞ ƚŽƉ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ďLJ ǀĂůƵĞ ͘

25

FCMB Group Plc

26

11 PLC

Insurance and Consumer Goods Indices Retain

27

Forte Oil PLC

'ĂŝŶĞƌƐ WŽƐŝƟŽŶ

28

PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC

29

Cadbury Nigeria PLC

WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ĂĐƌŽƐƐ ƐĞĐƚŽƌƐ ƌĞŵĂŝŶĞĚ ůĂƌŐĞůLJ ďĞĂƌŝƐŚ ĂƐ

30

ACCESS ;ϳϯ͘ϲŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ ĂŶĚ STANBIC ;ϰϯ͘ϵŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ͕ ǁŚŝůĞ

STANBIC

(N2.2bn),

ZENITH

;Eϱϭϱ͘ϮŵͿ

ĂŶĚ

ŽŶůLJ 2 ŽĨ ϱ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ƵŶĚĞƌ ŽƵƌ ĐŽǀĞƌĂŐĞ ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƚĞĚ͘ dŚĞ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ĂŶĚ ŽŶƐƵŵĞƌ 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ƌĞŵĂŝŶĞĚ ƚŚĞ ŽŶůLJ ŐĂŝŶĞƌƐ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ŐĂŝŶƐ ŝŶ CONTINSURE ;нϳ͘ϬйͿ͕ MANSARD

41.0% 26.1%

0.1x

1.3% -106.3%

196.50

0.0%

0.5%

1.32

-8.3%

0.5%

160.00

0.0%

0.5%

17.65

1.7%

0.2%

11.40

0.0%

9.50

-5.0%

Presco PLC

62.15

0.0%

31

NASCON Allied Industries PLC

18.00

0.0%

0.4%

32

UPDC Real Estate Investment Tr

8.10

0.0%

0.3%

33

Union Bank of Nigeria PLC

5.15

0.0%

0.3%

-34.0%

-31.4%

5.3%

1.0%

9.3x

0.5x

34

Julius Berger Nigeria PLC

21.00

0.0%

0.3%

-25.0%

-25.0%

17.3%

1.8%

5.8x

0.9x

4.8%

17.2%

4.3x

0.4x

1.2%

23.0%

0.8x

3.2%

-14.5%

34.6%

7.5%

6.9x

2.2x

8.7%

14.6%

-16.5%

6.7%

1.0%

1.7x

0.1x

7.6%

58.2%

-17.8%

-17.8%

38.0%

16.8%

5.3x

1.8x

5.0%

-59.4%

-58.0%

29.7%

3.0%

0.3%

-44.7%

-46.1%

1.1x

1.3%

0.3%

-39.4%

-39.1%

4.7%

1.9%

33.1x

1.5x

1.7%

3.0%

0.4%

-9.3%

-9.3%

37.0%

24.8%

2.5x

0.8x

3.5%

40.7%

-2.7%

-6.3%

47.0%

17.5%

9.4x

4.2x

8.3%

10.7%

-19.0%

-19.0%

0.7x

6.8%

1.4x

18.7% -11.8%

10.7%

35

Sterling Bank PLC

1.65

0.6%

0.5%

52.8%

46.0%

10.6%

1.1%

(+6.3%) and NIGERIAN BREWERIES ;нϬ͘ϱйͿ͘ KŶ ƚŚĞ ŇŝƉ ƐŝĚĞ͕

36

Dangote Flour Mills Plc

6.20

0.0%

0.2%

-49.0%

-49.0%

0.0%

0.0%

ƚŚĞ /ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ ƚŚĞ ŵŽƐƚ͕ ĚŽǁŶ Ϯ͘ϭй

37

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Niger

14.50

0.0%

0.2%

-32.9%

-32.9%

12.1%

7.2%

11.6x

2.0x

52.3%

8.6%

38

Chemical and Allied Products P

34.95

0.0%

0.3%

2.8%

-2.1%

66.2%

30.2%

16.3x

10.9x

5.9%

6.1%

39

Beta Glass PLC

68.30

0.0%

0.2%

33.1%

33.1%

17.7%

11.5%

8.3x

1.4x

1.6%

12.0%

40

Transcorp Hotels Plc

6.10

0.0%

0.1%

-15.4%

-15.4%

6.9%

3.8%

11.9x

0.8x

2.0%

8.4%

ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ƐĞůů-ŽīƐ ŝŶ DANGCEM (-ϲ͘ϭйͿ͘ ^ŝŵŝůĂƌůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ ĂŶŬŝŶŐ ŝŶĚĞdž ƐůŝĚ ϭ͘ϴй ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ůŽƐƐĞƐ ŝŶ GUARANTY (-3.7%) and

T o p 10 G a i n e r s

FBNH (-ϰ͘ϮйͿ ǁŚŝůĞ ƚŚĞ Kŝů Θ 'ĂƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ĚŝƉƉĞĚ ŵĂƌŐŝŶĂůůLJ

ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ƐƵƐƚĂŝŶĞĚ ƐĞůů ƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞƐ ŝŶ OANDO (-1.1%).

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ZĞŵĂŝŶƐ hŶĐŚĂŶŐĞĚ /ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ĂƐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ ;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ƌĂƟŽͿ ƐƚĂLJĞĚ ŇĂƚ Ăƚ Ϭ͘ϱdž ĂƐ ϭϮ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƚĞĚ ĂŐĂŝŶƐƚ Ϯϯ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞƌƐ͘ VERITASKAP ;нϭϬ͘ϬйͿ͕ IKEJAHOTEL (+9.8%) and MBENEFIT ;нϴ͘ϳйͿ ǁĞƌĞ ƚŚĞ ďĞƐƚ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵŝŶŐ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ǁŚŝůĞ ABCTRANS (-9.7%), DIAMONDBNK

T ic k er

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

VER IT A SKA P

0.22

10.0%

IKEJ A H OT EL

1.68

9.8%

M B EN EF IT

0.25

8.7%

A C C ESS

7.50

7.1%

C ON T IN SUR E

2.00

7.0%

M A N SA R D

2.02

6.3%

N EIM ET H

0.57

FO

17.65

N EM C A VER T ON

(-9.6%) and JOHNHOLT (-ϵ͘ϲйͿ ůĞĚ ƚŚĞ ůĂŐŐĂƌĚƐ͘ ůƚŚŽƵŐŚ͕ ǁĞ ŽďƐĞƌǀĞĚ Ă ďĞĂƌŝƐŚ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ƐŝŶĐĞ ƚŚĞ ďĞŐŝŶŶŝŶŐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ǁĞĞŬ͕ ǁĞ ĞdžƉĞĐƚ ĂŶ ƵƉƟĐŬ ŝŶ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ŝŶ today's trading session as investors seek ƚŽ ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞ ďƵLJŝŶŐ interests ŝŶ ĨƵŶĚĂŵĞŶƚĂůůLJ ũƵƐƟĮĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ǁŚŝĐŚ ŚĂǀĞ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ ŝŶ ǀĂůƵĞ͘ ,ŽǁĞǀĞƌ͕ ǁĞ ĚŽ ŶŽƚ ĞdžƉĞĐƚ ƚŚĞ ƵƉƟĐŬ ƚŽ

ŶƵůůŝĨLJ ƚŚĞ ŽǀĞƌĂůů ŶĞŐĂƟǀĞ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ůŽĐĂů ďŽƵƌƐĞ͘

Afrinvest Securities Limited (RC 603 315) (A Dealing Member of the Nigerian Stock Exchange)

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V o l u m e T ic k er

P ric e C hg %

150.1

A C C ESS

73.6

7.1%

ST A N B IC

43.9

0.0%

D IA M ON D B N K

41.3

-9.6%

Z EN IT H B A N K

22.3

-1.1%

FCM B

14.0

-8.3%

1.8%

GUA R A N T Y

13.6

-3.7%

1.7%

FB NH

12.6

-4.2%

2.40

1.3%

F ID ELIT YB K

11.6

-3.1%

1.90

1.1%

T R A N SC OR P

9.8

-3.5%

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

Vo lum e

UN IVIN SUR E

0.0%

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V a l u e

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

A B CTRA NS

0.28

-9.7%

D IA M ON D B N K

0.66

-9.6%

J A IZ B A N K

0.40

-9.1%

J OH N H OLT

0.40

-9.1%

LIVEST OC K

0.52

FCM B

1.32

LA WUN ION

T ic k er

Value

P ric e C hg %

ST A N B IC

2195.6

0.0%

Z EN IT H B A N K

515.2

-1.1%

A C C ESS

503.0

7.1%

GUA R A N T Y

465.0

-3.7%

-8.8%

D A N GC EM

199.3

-2.6%

-8.3%

N EST LE

96.1

0.0%

0.47

-6.0%

FB NH

87.0

-4.2%

C A D B UR Y

9.50

-5.0%

UB A

56.0

-4.1%

UC A P

2.71

-4.6%

NB

48.7

0.5%

FB NH

6.80

-4.2%

WA P C O

39.5

-2.2%

Investment Research

Brokerage Ayodeji Ebo | aebo@afrinvest.com

Robert Omotunde |

Bolaji Fajenyo | bfajenyo@afrinvest.com

Jolomi Odonghanro | jodonghanro@afrinvest.com

romotunde@afrinvest.com

T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ ÍťÍ¸Ëœ ͺ͸͚͜

43

MARKET NEWS

WFE, African Securities Exchange Association Sign MoU to Grow Markets Goddy Egene The World Federation of Exchanges, the global industry group for exchanges and central counter parties (CCPs), has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the African Securities Exchange Association (ASEA), aimed at supporting the development of the wider African capital market. According to a statement, the MoU is to support the development of market

infrastructures in Africa and, through them, the development of the wider African capital market ecosystem and to enable African market infrastructures to develop best practices based on global standards, while remaining appropriate to the needs of the region and nation in which they operate. The WFE and ASEA have pledged to collaborate in developing and implementing programmes and projects, including finding ways to increase the amount of data

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return. An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

published by the region, that deliver these two overarching objectives. Commenting on the development, Chief Executive Officer, WFE, Nandini Sukumar, said: “The WFE is delighted to announce this ground-breaking MoU with ASEA. The WFE’s market development mandate has always been a key pillar of the federation, but this agreement crystallises our vision to support members in specific regions with targeted activity. We believe that exchanges

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 2811-2018, unless otherwise stated.

in Africa will benefit from this focused approach, be it through our technical expertise, capacity building programme, or broader market development assistance to help them meet international standards and best practice. We look forward to engaging more deeply on the topics that matter to African market infrastructures, and further growing our knowledge and relationships in this vibrant continent.� Also speaking, immediate past President of ASEA and

Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Oscar Onyema said: “ASEA and the WFE will work in tandem to promote quality market standards, advocate for enabling policies, and support the growth of member exchanges. As such, this partnership will inspire and support African exchanges to unlock greater levels of competitiveness through information sharing and the adoption of best practices. We welcome this opportunity to enhance our value proposition

to ASEA members’ and we encourage members of both associations to take advantage of emerging opportunities.� On his part, Chief Executive Officer of Bourse de Casablanca and new President of ASEA, Karim Hajji, said: “Together with my fellow Executive Committee Members, we are very keen on implementing the agreed activities of our partnership with the WFE, and translating them into tangible results for the benefit of the two institutions.�

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

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 1 270 1680 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 158.20 159.20 -10.88% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 11.00% Nigeria International Debt Fund 273.90 275.43 18.49% ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund 0.83 0.84 0.73% ACAP Income Funds 0.63 0.63 6.78% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.45% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.21 2.23 -3.82% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 16.67 17.17 -8.76% ARM Discovery Fund 357.94 368.73 -8.00% ARM Ethical Fund 28.20 29.05 3.23% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.39% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 131.26 132.18 -13.47% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.22% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 0.00% Paramount Equity Fund 11.50 11.80 3.74% Women's Investment Fund 101.21 103.80 0.57% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.14% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 99.21 99.31 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 97.59 97.92 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.24% Coronation Balanced Fund 0.83 0.84 Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.16 1.16 10.10% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 11.89% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 12.42% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,168.56 1,169.32 11.38% FBN Heritage Fund 141.62 142.83 1.55% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.73% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional 112.39 112.82 3.24% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 112.13 112.56 3.11% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 146.31 148.38 -7.89% FIRST CITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD fcamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcamltd.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Equity Fund 1.21 1.23 -6.29% Legacy Debt Fund 3.21 3.21 11.13% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.02 1.02 2.00% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 2,938.18 2,966.83 -1.59% Coral Income Fund 2,732.93 2,732.93 11.64% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.23% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 105.53 105.85 5.36% INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.00%

Vantage Balanced Fund 2.14 2.16 1.36% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 15.00% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 123.29 123.49 7.12% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD ďŹ ncon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.20 1.22 4.30% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 105.53 105.85 MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 11.05 11.14 -14.58% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 11.27% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.33 1.35 11.55% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.08 12.14 9.43% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.25% SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 126.71 127.11 -2.32% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.69 1.69 13.50% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,299.54 2,314.35 4.64% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 188.14 188.14 8.04% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.94 0.96 -5.94% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 245.02 245.06 13.53% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 159.92 161.73 -10.70% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 11.64% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 8,428.64 8,530.75 -11.36% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.10 1.10 6.73% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.17 1.18 -1.53% United Capital Bond Fund 1.58 1.58 10.26% United Capital Equity Fund 0.70 0.71 -7.39% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.65% United Capital Eurobond Fund 106.43 106.43 6.35% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.08 1.09 3.85% ZENITH ASSETS MANAGEMENT LTD info@zenith-funds.com Web: www.zenith-funds.com; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 11.11 11.26 -7.61% Zenith Ethical Fund 12.10 12.20 -6.00% Zenith Income Fund 20.56 20.56 11.42% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.34%

REITS

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

9.00 139.26 51.55

-20.11% 5.13% 1.42%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

115.08 88.21

117.52 89.87

0.00% -19.43% -19.25%

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

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund

VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva GrifďŹ n 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund

SPECIALIST FUNDS*

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

3.98 7.24 14.54 12.60 141.45

4.02 7.32 14.64 12.80 143.45

-16.05% -24.23% -16.68% -35.76% 5.27%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

107.13

17.03%

FOR HNI & PROFESSIONAL INVESTORS ONLY

Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

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

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FRIDAY NOVEMBER 30, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

Measles Cases Rise 30% Worldwide, Says WHO Measles cases worldwide jumped more than 30 per cent last year compared to

2016, with increases recorded in wealthy European countries like Germany

Trump Cancels Meeting with Putin at G20 US President Donald Trump on Thursday scrapped a planned meeting at the G20 summit with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin over Moscow’s detention of a group of Ukrainian sailors. “Based on the fact that the ships and sailors have not been returned to Ukraine from Russia, I have decided it would be best for all parties concerned to cancel my previously scheduled meeting in Argentina with President Vladimir Putin,” he wrote on Twitter. “I look forward to a meaningful Summit again as soon as this situation is resolved!,” Trump added, shortly after taking off for the weekend summit in Buenos Aires. The announcement came shortly after Trump had told reporters as he left the White House that the summit would be a “very good time” for a meeting with Putin.

“I probably will be meeting with President Putin. We haven’t terminated that meeting. I was thinking about it, but we haven’t. I think it’s a very good time to have the meeting,” he had said. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters shortly after take-off Trump had conferred in person with Chief of Staff John Kelly and Secretary of State Pompeo aboard presidential plane Air Force One — as well as by phone with National Security Advisor Bolton, who is in Brazil — before announcing the U-turn. “It’s just happened in the last half hour,” Sanders said. Asked how Putin was informed about the cancelation, she said she was “not aware” of a phone call between the two leaders “There was some back and forth” through other channels, she said without elaborating.

where vaccination coverage has historically been high, the UN said Thursday. The World Health Organisation (WHO) said the worrying trend of resurgent measles cases was a near global phenomenon, but the causes varied among regions. In Europe, experts blamed the problem in part on complacency and misinformation about a vaccine proven to be both effective and safe. WHO’s director of immunisation, vaccines and biologicals, Martin Friede, told reporters that “supposed experts making accusations against the vaccine without any evidence” has had an impact on parents’ decisions.

He specifically cited medically baseless claims linking the measles vaccine to autism, which have been spread in part on social media by members of the so-called “anti-vax” movement. But cases have also spiked in Latin America, partly due to “a collapsing health system in Venezuela,” the head of the vaccine alliance Gavi, Seth Berkley, said in a statement. A crippling political and economic crisis in Venezuela has triggered massive inflation, with hospitals struggling to maintain stocks. “What is more worrying than the increase in the cases reported is that we are seeing sustained measles transmission in countries that

had previously not seen measles transmission for many years,” Friede said. “This suggests we are actually regressing.” Multiple countries — notably Germany, Russia and Venezuela — have had their measles elimination certificate withdrawn over the last 12 months. A country loses its measles elimination status when “the same type of virus has been circulating for more than 12 continuous months,” according to WHO. WHO stressed that the overall global fight against measles had shown impressive results this century. In 2000, there were more than 850,000 cases reported worldwide, compared to 173,000 last year. That progress made

the recent setbacks all the more frustrating, said WHO immunisation expert Ann Lindstrand. “We have a safe and effective vaccine,” she told reporters. “This is not rocket science, we know what to do.” According to WHO guidelines, preventing measles outbreaks requires 95 percent coverage of the first dose of the vaccine. Global coverage has stalled at 85 percent for several years, but the figure is lower in poorer regions like Africa, which had a coverage rate of 70 percent in 2017. Measles is a highly contagious disease, which can cause severe diarrhoea, pneumonia and vision loss and can be fatal in some cases.

Georgia Elects Salome Zurabishvili as First Woman President Ex-diplomat, Salome Zurabishvili, hailed her election as Georgia’s first woman president on Thursday but opposition leaders denounced the result as fraud and called for protests. With all votes counted, the country’s election commission said the French-born Zurabishvili, backed by the ruling Georgian Dream party, had taken 59.52 per cent of the second-round vote. Her rival Grigol Vashadze, from an alliance of 11 opposition parties led by exiled ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili’s United National Movement (UNM), took 40.48 per cent. Zurabishvili said her election was a step forward for women and a move closer to Europe for the ex-Soviet republic. “It is now important to show that this country has chosen Europe,” she told journalists after her win. “For that purpose, Georgians have elected a European woman president.” “It feels great,” she said, pointing out that she was one of a small number of women presidents in the world. But opposition leaders — who have accused authorities of vote-buying and ballot stuffing — refused to accept the result. “We do not recognise the

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as EKANG OGECHUKWU PATIENCE, now wish to be known and addressed as ARIMAH OGECHUKWU PATIENCE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

election results, we demand the holding of snap parliamentary polls,” Vashadze said in televised remarks, calling for “a mass peaceful demonstration” in the capital Tbilisi on Sunday. The election was seen as a test of Georgia’s democratic credentials as it seeks European Union and NATO membership. Georgia’s President-elect, Salome Zurabishvili (middle), addressing the media soon after she was announced winner in the hotly contested It was also a trial run for more presidential election in Tbilisi…yesterday AFP important parliamentary elections in 2020 when Georgian Dream is set to face off against a range of opposition parties. The party is the creation of billionaire tycoon Bidzina Ivanishvili, who many see as Macron to meet Saudi crown prince at G20 the small country’s de facto ruler. Flamboyant ex-president Canada announced targeted that “the explanations offered 21 people are in custody, with France, Germany and the Saakashvili, who lives in exile in sanctions Thursday against to date by Saudi Arabia lack death penalties sought against United States imposed similar sanctions on these the Netherlands, claimed “mass 17 Saudi nationals it said consistency and credibility.” five men. electoral fraud” even before were linked to the murder International pressure has individuals. “The murder of Jamal Meanwhile, French official results were released. of journalist Jamal Khashoggi Khashoggi is abhorrent and mounted on Riyadh to find “The oligarch has stamped in Istanbul last month. represents an unconscionable those responsible for the President, Emmanuel Macron, out Georgian democracy and The sanctions, which attack on the freedom of grisly murder of Khashoggi, yesterday said he would the institutions of elections,” freezes their assets and bars expression of all individuals,” a US resident who wrote for raise the killing of journalist he said on the pro-opposition their travel to Canada, “target Freeland also told a press The Washington Post and Jamal Khashoggi with Saudi Rustavi-2 television channel, individuals who are, in the conference in Buenos Aires had been critical of Prince Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines referring to Ivanishvili. opinion of the government on the sidelines of the G20 Mohammed. “I urge Georgians to defend of Canada, responsible for or summit. A recent CIA analysis of the G20 summit. “I will no doubt have the our freedom, democracy and the complicit in the extrajudicial “This case is not closed,” leaked to the US media law. I call on you to start mass killing of journalist Jamal she said. “Those responsible reportedly pointed the finger opportunity to mention it peaceful rallies and demand Khashoggi on October for Jamal Khashoggi’s murder at Prince Mohammed, though with the crown prince on snap parliamentary polls.” 2, 2018,” Foreign Affairs must be held to account and Saudi prosecutors have said the margins of the summit,” International observers said Minister Chrystia Freeland must face justice.” he had no role in the killing. Macron told journalists in there were problems with the said in a statement. The Canadian sanctions Buenos Aires. Freeland accompanied The de facto Saudi ruler election but that overall it had At the same time, Canadian Prime Minister target individuals alleged been “competitive”. Ottawa continued to call Justin Trudeau to the summit, to be members of a Saudi arrived in Argentina on for “a transparent and also attended by Saudi hit squad that carried out Wednesday bidding to shrug CONFIRMATION OF NAME rigorous accounting of the Crown Prince Mohammed the killing, as well as close off international outrage over dŚŝƐ ŝƐ ƚŽ ĐŽŶĮƌŵ ƚŚĂƚ /͕ Ogbadu circumstances” surrounding bin Salman. the murder in the Saudi aides of the prince. Onuche Silas is one and same Khashoggi’s murder, saying They come after allies embassy in Istanbul. Saudi Arabia has said that person with Ogbade Donald ඬKŶƵĐŚĞ ^ŝůĂƐ, I henceforth wish to be known and addressed as OGBADU DONALD ONUCHE SILAS. The General Public please take note. The Frankfurt headquarters of who are alleged to have The investigation is ongoing. details in due course. We are dŚŝƐ ŝƐ ƚŽ ĐŽŶĮƌŵ ƚŚĂƚ / Ahama Charity A spokesperson for Deutsche cooperating fully with the German bank, Deutsche Bank, helped clients set up offshore Chioma is one and same person as has been raided by German firms to launder money, the said: “We confirm that the authorities.” Ahama Charity Okwukwe and that Recall that details of police are currently conducting police as part of a money prosecutor’s office said. there was a mistake in the name during Around 170 police officers, an investigation at a number thousands of individuals laundering probe linked to the Account opening . I Henceforth prosecutors and tax inspectors of our offices in Germany. and companies involved in the Panama Papers. wish to be known and addressed as AHAMA CHARITY OKWUKWE. The Investigators are looking searched six Deutsche offices The investigation relates to offshore companies were general public please take note. revealed when the Panama into the activities of two in and around Frankfurt, and the Panama Papers. “We will be issuing further Papers were leaked in 2016. Deutsche Bank staff members several documents were seized.

Canada Sanctions 17 Saudi Nationals over Khashoggi Murder

170 Police Officers Raid Deutsche Bank in Panama Papers Probe

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˾ FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018

WORLD OF ISLAM

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

Ten Principles for Those Seeking the Path of Allah Abu Hamid Al-Ghazali/Suhaib Webb/ IslamiCity

P

rinciple 1: Have a sincere, unwavering intention. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said, “each person will be rewarded for what he intended” (Muslim). This calls for determination in the heart to continuously act or to abstain from something only for God’s sake. A sign of having sincere intentions is that one does not change his resolve for fleeting reasons; what is done for God, the Truth, should not be forsaken to please His creation. Principle 2: Work purely for God, (the One) without partners or associates. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: “worship God as though you see Him, but if you do not see Him (know that) He sees you” (Muslim). A sign of working purely for God is to not accept anything except the truth, and to see everything else besides the truth as vain and fleeting. As the prophet (pbuh) said, “Let the slave of the dinar perish” (Bukhari). One should also beware of falling into doubtful matters. As Prophet Muhammad (pbuh): “Leave what is doubtful for what is not doubtful” (Tirmidhi and Nasa’i). Principle 3: Align one’s desires with the guidelines and rulings of the Shari`ah (Islamic law). Be patient in times of hardship and difficulty, when struggling with personal desires, and in avoiding sinful acts and pleasures. Whoever practices this regularly reaches a state whereby he is in his sleep as if he were awake [worshipping], in his mixing with people as if he were in seclusion, in his fulfillment as if he were hungry, in his pride as if he were humiliated, and in talking to others as if he were silent. Principle 4: Base one’s actions on following [the prophet’s way and scholarly opinions], and not on innovation. This prevents the following of one’s own desires and becoming proud of one’s own opinion. Surely, a person who takes himself as his own ruler will not succeed. Principe 5: Have high ambitions, and do not procrastinate. It is said: “do not leave today’s work until tomorrow,” because actions are built on each another; and whoever is content with a lower [status] will be deprived of a higher one. Principle 6: Be aware of one’s incapability and insignificance. This is not referring to

laziness in worship or lack of productivity in work. It is about realizing that one is not capable of doing any action without support from God, the Most Capable, and Most Generous. This awareness is also manifested in viewing other people with respect and reverence, for people are means and helpers of one another on the path to God, the Exalted and Most Bountiful. Principle 7: Have fear and hope, and do not be sure that your good deeds are accepted until you have witnessed this [on the day of Judgment]. One should have hope not because of the good deeds themselves, but because God Himself is the Most Benevolent and Generous. Principle 8: Be consistent in one’s wird (regular litany of worship), for the one without a wird does not have additional source of support from God. With a wird, the soul opens up in public and private; it becomes more mindful of the rights of others; it increases in loving and hating for others what it loves or hates for itself. Also, having that wird makes one work more for God in order to please Him, just as a person would love that God does for him what he finds pleasing. Principle 9: Be constantly observant of your actions and do not stray away from the remembrance of God even the blink of an eye. For the one who is always observant of his heart for the sake of God, and does not let other than God enter his heart besides, is one who has truly found God, experienced His Benevolence, and has reached ‘ilm al-yaqeen (certain knowledge). This is manifested in seeing God as the Enabler or Mover of everything that remains still or in motion around us. One’s mindfulness then increases from there until he recognizes that God is the Sustainer of everything, so His interaction with the creation is characterized by the best of manners. (Exemplifying this), the Prophet (pbuh) said: “My Lord taught me good manners, and He gave me the best of manners.” Principle 10: Know what one should be occupied with, both internally and externally for whoever thinks that he is not in need of obeying [God and His messenger] is a broke man who is in opposition to God’s words: “...Say ‘If you love Allah, then follow me, Allah will love you’ “ (3:31) This is the foundation upon which have been built castles like no other.

A Forgotten Covenant IslamiCity “This is a message from Muhammad ibn Abdullah, as a covenant to those who adopt Christianity, near and far, we are with them. Verily I, the servants, the helpers, and my followers defend them, because Christians are my citizens; and by Allah! I hold out against anything that displeases them. No compulsion is to be on them. Neither are their judges to be removed from their jobs nor their monks from their monasteries. No one is to destroy a house of their religion, to damage it, or to carry anything from it to the Muslims’ houses. Should anyone take any of these, he would spoil God’s covenant and disobey His Prophet. Verily, they are my allies and have my secure charter against all that they hate. No one is to force them to travel or to oblige them to fight. The Muslims are to fight for them. If a female Christian is married to a Muslim, it is not to take place without her approval. She is not to be prevented from visiting her church to pray. Their churches are to be respected. They are neither to be prevented from repairing them nor the sacredness of their covenants. No one of the nation (Muslims) is to disobey the covenant till the Last Day (end of the world).” Such were the memorable words of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in the year 628 CE, when he granted this historic document,

also known as the Charter of Privileges, to the monks of St. Catherine Monastery in Mt. Sinai. It consisted of several clauses covering all aspects of human rights including such topics as the protection of Christians living under Islamic rule, freedom of worship and movement, freedom to appoint their own judges and to own and maintain their property, exemption from military service, and the right to protection in war. In the spirit of this and numerous other authoritative Islamic texts, one wonders why contemporary policy makers in the West insist on supporting the secular, corrupt, and authoritarian regimes of the predominantly Muslim nations. What is the wisdom of allocating billions of dollars to overthrow, through well-crafted public and covert operations, the popularly and legitimately elected Muslim governments? Have the West’s ‘experts’ on the Middle East, the Orientalists and the national security advisers hijacked Western political institutions as the latter hijacked the legitimate government of, for example, Iran’s democratic Mosadeq regime, or the Algerian peaceful election that guaranteed Muslim control, and many more cases? Should the predominantly Christian West fear and fight genuine Islamic regimes or should it change its outlook by trusting those who uphold God’s Words and Muhammad’s (pbuh) commands above secular and cultural values?

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FRIDAY NOVEMBER 30, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWSEXTRA

Discos Fault Obaseki on BEDC’s Performance CPC wants distribution firms to end arbitrary billing Peter Uzoho and Sharon Emi Electricity distribution companies under the aegis of the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED) has faulted the position of the Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, on the performance of Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) in the state This is coming as the Director General of the Consumer Protection Council (CPC), Mr. Babatunde Irukera, has called on the Discos to address the issue of arbitrary billing which is one of the major concerns always

raised by electricity consumers in the country, saying they (Discos) should entrench transparency in their billing process. In a statement issued by the Executive Director, Research and Advocacy, ANED, Mr. Sunday Oduntan, the umbrella body of Discos expressed its displeasure over the treatment of the Managing Director of BEDC, Mrs. FunkeOsibodu, by Obaseki during an oversight visit to the state by members of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Power. The governor was reported to have walked Osibodu out of his

office during the meeting because of what he (Obaseki) described as “failing to meet obligations to electricity consumers in the state.” Oduntan said: “What is most unfortunate about the whole episode is that there is a misunderstanding about how the power sector works and this has led to the governor’s unfair expectations from BEDC. I cannot also rule out with the upcoming elections and everyone looking for scapegoats, that local politics may be involved in this case and that is highly unfortunate. “He mentioned that the state

Akwa Ibom Hosts 26th NMMA Akwa Ibom State is set to host the 26th Nigerian Media Merit Award (NMMA), an annual event which celebrates Nigerian media practitioners and institution in grand style. The grand annual medial excellence programme will hold from December 13 to 16, 2018. According to a statement by the General Administrator, NMMA, Tosan Ayo-Faluyi, the hosting of the NMMA annual event across the country provides a special forum for the media practitioners and leaders to meet

with members of the society across various zones of Nigeria. This he said would help to foster closer media understanding, recognition and interaction not only among media people but very much also with the people of the state and zone directly, making for the appreciation of their unique cultural heritage and economic potential. As part of the activities lined up for the 2018 Awards, is formal investiture of President Muhammadu Buhari, as Grand Patron of the NMMA. The

“Numero Uno Man of the Media” conferment is in line with the provisions of the NMMA since inception. The formal investiture of the president in this regard has been rescheduled for an auspicious date that shall be announced accordingly. Also, the guests at the threeday Grand wards programme will include about 150 Awards nominees, 50 Media Leaders and about 100 Special guests from the public and private sectors of Akwa-Ibom state and from across the nation.

generates over 600MW and as such should not be encountering power supply challenges. However, he needs to understand that the power generated at Azura or any other power plant in the country for that matter is first sent to the national grid from where it is redistributed to different Discos for distribution to customers. “Benin Disco is only entitled to nine per cent of the power sent out from the national grid. So it is clear that the Disco does not have the power to retain the 600MW generated by Azura. Oduntan further explained: “More interestingly is the fact that out of this nine per cent, over 40 per cent of it distributed within Edo State as the host community of the Disco. The other three

states in the franchise area – Delta, Ekiti and Ondo, share the remaining 60 per cent. You can clearly see therefore that Edo State enjoys the lion share of what the Disco gets already. To allocate more to Edo, which is what the governor is advocating for, will be grossly unfair to the other states.” Meanwhile, the Director General of the Consumer Protection Council (CPC), Mr. Babatunde Irukera, has called on the Discos to address the issue of arbitrary billing which is one of the major concerns always raised by electricity consumers in the country, saying they (Discos) should entrench transparency in their billing process.

Irukera gave the advice on Wednesday at the customer engagement/town hall meeting in Surulere, organised by the Eko Distribution Company (EKEDC) in collaboration with the CPC. “It’s very clear to us, we have taken a very clear position that there are a few things that we think are absolutely unacceptable. One of them is the arbitrary bills –billings that have no rational basis or support from the use standpoint. “Secondly, group disconnection, because what that does is to penalise some of the people who have behaved appropriately for the conduct of those who have behaved inappropriately,” Irukera said.

Female Police Officer,Two Children Found Dead in Osogbo Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Residents of Olosa-Oko, Oja-Oba area of Osogbo, Osun State capital were yesterday thrown into mourning as a female police officer simply known Jumoke and her two children were found dead inside their rooms. An eye witness, Mrs Iyabo

Adewumi, told our correspondent that the deceased, and four of her children slept in the night after taking dinner, but two of them were later found dead in the morning. “The cry of the last child among the children alerted the neighbours who forced the door open and found the mother and

the child dead. “The woman and her husband are police officers; I only known her as Mummy Jumoke; I don’t know her real name”. The three corpses were said to have been deposited at Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital (LAUTECH), morgue.

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House Moves to Investigate PenCOM Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja The House of Representatives yesterday set up an ad-hoc committee to look into the activities of the National Pension Commission (PenCOM) from April 2017 to date. The House tasked the federal government to present the constituted board of PENCOM to the Senate for confirmation within seven days as prescribed by the Nigerian constitution. The position of the lawmakers was sequel to the adoption of a motion

moved by Hon. Benjamin Waya (Benue, APC) where he charged the House to investigate alleged violation of PenCOM Act, Illegal and unlawful appointments, and provisions and use of public funds. According to Wayo, “In April 2017, the Federal Government of Nigeria announced the constitution or composition of the Board of the National Pension Commission (PenCOM), made up of Chairman, Director-General and four members as executive commissioners respectively.

“The appointment or the board members is made, subject to the confirmation of the Senate, upon the request of the president to that effect, but up till now the request has not been made to the Senate by the President 19 months since the announcement of the composition of the board.” Wayo added that the Net Assets Value (NAV) of the contributory pension fund as at October 28, 2018 stands at N8.779 trillion and contributors have grown to 8.90 million. He expressed worries that

Nigeria to Become World’s Capital for Infants’ Death by 2021, Says World Bank Peter Uzoho By 2021, Africa’s giant, Nigeria, will be crowned world’s capital for death of infants under the age of five, overtaking India, the latest bi-annual economic report of the World Bank’s Bretton Woods Institution has said. The report seen by TheCable, said Nigeria records the highest number of child malaria deaths anywhere in the world. It also said Nigeria has the highest number of out-of-school children anywhere in the world, and that 90 per cent of these children are from Northern Nigeria. “Nigeria will overtake India in 2021 as the country with the most under-five deaths in the world. More children die of malaria in Nigeria than in any other country

in the world,” the report said. According to the current World Bank figures, India, with a population of 1.3 billion recorded 989,000 under-five deaths in 2017, while Nigeria, with 196 million citizens, recorded 714,000 deaths in the same year. Earlier in the year, Nigeria overtook India as the world’s poverty capital possessing the highest number of people living in extreme poverty anywhere in the world. According to the report, Nigeria’s weak revenue mobilisation has major implications for its growth and development, including for improving its dire social service delivery outcomes. The report said: “Poverty remains high in Nigeria and access to basic social services is

not universal. In 2016, the World Bank estimated poverty at 38.8 per cent of the population using the national poverty line. But by the international poverty line of PPP-corrected $1.90 per capita per day, an estimated 49.2 per cent of the population lived below poverty in 2017.” The World Bank report, however, stated that with nine million children out of school, Nigeria has the highest number of out-of-school children of primary school age in the world, with over 90 per- cent of them in the North. It said: “Vaccination coverage rates in Nigeria have changed little over the last 25 years, in sharp contrast to other West African countries which have made more rapid progress even

Professor Eni is Dead Professor Nnenna Eni is dead! She died on October 1, 2018, after a brief illness.Eni,whohailedfromAmaekpu Ohafia, in Abia State, was born into the family of Chief and Mrs. Erem Obasi Erem. According to a statement made available to THISDAY by her family, she had her primary and secondary education in Ohafia and Calabar, Cross River State respectively. The statement further noted that after her secondary education, she proceeded to New York, United States, to study at the Turo College. She also bagged a masters and doctoral degrees in Education from the University of Port Harcourt and the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT). Her family in the statement described her as a wonderful, cheerful and extremely generous woman, adding that “she was an epitome of motherhood and was fiercely loyal to family and friendship.” Nnenna was happily married to the late Dr. Osu Okwara Eni, with whom they shared a loving live together, and were blessed with four children. The statement added that she would be buried in her

Professor Nnenna Eni

hometown of Amaekpu, Ohafia, Abia State, after a funeral service by the Presbyterian

Church of Nigeria in the town on November 30 and December 1.

without proper structure such as the board in place, the N8.779 trillion contributed would be under the care of an acting Director-General. Citing the case of former PenCOM Director-General who was sacked for allegedly misappropriating about N1billion in a single transaction involving ASO Savings, Wayo alleged that “The acting Director-General,

Mrs. Dahir Umar, increased her terminal benefits and that of other senior staff of the commission by 300 per cent against the provisions of the law, adding that “the number of PenCom General Managers were also jerked up from 10 to 17 in breach of extant laws governing the institution of PenCom.” He therefore stated that “it is dangerous and too risky to

leave a treasury of N9 trillion without proper custodians and regulators.” The Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamiila however, disagreed with Wayo on the non-submission of the list of Board members to the Senate, stressing that “It is the Senate that has refused to confirm the list,” adding that “It is not the fault of the president.”

Nigerian Army Removes Spokesman, Texas Chukwu The Nigerian Army has replaced Birg-General Texas Chukwu as its Director of Army Public Relations, and replaced him with Sani Usman. According to TheCable which broke the news, Brig-General Sani Usman had been reinstated as spokesman of the army. Chukwu took over the position in February when Usman enrolled for a senior executive course at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Jos. When contacted, Chukwu confirmed that he had been replaced but said it was because of a course he ought to attend at the NIPSS.

“There must be progress. I’m going to NIPSS for study. You know there are some courses you would take before getting promoted to major-general. It’s true. I’m no more the army spokesman. SK Usman would take over. He just returned from course, too,” he told TheCable. Usman also confirmed to TheCable that he had returned to his former position since Monday. He appealed for support and thanked all those who supported him during his time at NIPSS. “I wish to on behalf of my family thank all those that

called or sent congratulatory messages as I graduated from NIPSS, Kuru, bagged the highly respected Membership of the National Institute (mni) and inducted into the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI) since November 24, 2018,” he said in a message sent to TheCable. “I also like to inform you that I have also been reappointed as Director Army Public Relations with effect from Monday, November 26, 2018. I look forward to your continued support and cooperation. May God continue to bless and protect you and your family.”

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Nigeria Will End AIDS Epidemic by 2030, Says Osinbajo Martins Ifijeh Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has stated that the federal government will do all within its powers to end Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic in Nigeria by 2030. He said to achieve this, the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration will provide sustained political will at the highest level and increase funding for HIV response across all states of the federation. Speaking at the 2018 World AIDS Day in Abuja yesterday, the vice president said, like other countries, the ambitious goal of ending AIDS epidemic by 2030 is achievable in Nigeria, adding that among the series of events to meet the target was the commencement of the National AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey (NAIIS) in all 36 states of the federation which was flagged off by President Muhammadu Buhari in June

this year. “The survey aims at providing a reliable baseline against which we can monitor our performance as a country. I understand that the survey has made remarkable progress, and the results will be available by March 2019. “We are closer to ending the AIDs epidemic. Having a HIV diagnosis today implies something very different from what we had 20years ago. Research has delivered improved medicines, technologies and approaches to service delivery and holds even greater promise for what will be obtained in the future. Today, with more access to treatment and care, people living with HIV can live healthier and more fulfilling lives.” He added that there were over a million people on life- saving HIV treatment in the country, adding that “every year, about nine million adults are tested for HIV, with about two million being pregnant women; a clear affirmation of our goal

to eliminate Mother to Child Transmission of HIV in the country.” The Director General, National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) Dr. Sani Aliyu, who spoke on the 2018 WAD theme: ‘Know Your Status,’ said the focus of this year’s commemoration was apt given that the gap in HIV diagnosis was a major stumbling block for the country’s HIV programme towards achieving the 90-90-90

targets.. The DG said: “I acknowledge especially the funding and technical support of the United States government and the Global Fund. Beyond the HIV burden, the NAIIS survey presently ongoing will provide reliable data on HIV incidence, viral suppression among people living with HIV who are on treatment, and the prevalence of hepatitis B and C. “The results of this survey will improve our understanding

of the Nigerian HIV epidemic and provide more accurate and reliable data for planning and decision making.” He said one important priority for NACA was to facilitate the local manufacturing of HIV medicines and other relevant commodities as part of the longterm sustainability agenda for the national response. “We have now commenced plans in partnership with the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and

Development (NIPRD) and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) to develop a comprehensive framework that will leverage on existing government policies to catalyse production of medicines and commodities in country. The local production of high quality and affordable medicines represents the most effective means of ensuring sustainable access to essential medicines,” he added.

Shareholders Approve CCNN, Kalambaina Cement Merger Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto Kalambaina Cement Sokoto yesterday announced its merger with the Cement Company of Northern Nigeria (CCNN). Briefing journalists after an extra-ordinary general meeting of the shareholders, the Chairman of the company, Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu, who also double as the Chairman of CCNN, said the deal would involve highly technical and complex infusion of the two companies. To this end, the company has obtained an exparte summons from the Federal High Court. Rabiu added that with the merger, the shareholders have a lot to benefit when the deal is approved by Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). According to him, it would give room for the company to expand as well as enhance optimum production and its exportation capacity. He stressed that with Sokoto as a border town, the company

has a challenge of supplying cement to its catchment areas, including Niger Republic. After deliberation, the shareholders overwhelmingly voted for the merger. The voting, which was through proxy and persons, had 163 accredited shareholders, and 99.01 per cent voted for while 0.63 per cent of the shareholders voted against and 0.36 per cent did not vote. The sum of the units which approved of the scheme of the merger was 215,603,762. Some of the shareholders, who spoke to journalists after the voting, thanked the chairman for his pragmatic leadership which propels them to invest more in the company. At the end of the deliberation, the chairman told the shareholders that their resolution would be transmitted to the High Court and Nigeria Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) for approval.

Prudential Zenith Insurance Rewards Actuarial Students with Scholarships To further support capacity development in the actuarial profession, Prudential Zenith Life Insurance Limited has awarded the five best graduating actuarial students from the University of Lagos with scholarships and offered a one year internship for the overall best student. According to the firm, the gesture is in line with the company’s history of rewarding academic excellence in Actuarial Science in other African markets. To reach students in the Nigerian market, a similar programme was set up in partnership with University of Lagos. The company affirmed its commitment to the growth and development of actuarial knowledge and capabilities within

the markets that it operates. “This awards the five best graduating students in the Actuarial Science department with a lump sum and provides support in the form of exam fees and study materials to help them to sit their actuarial exams for two years after graduation. In addition, an internship to work with Prudential Zenith Life is offered to one of the candidates”, the firm explained in a statement. In presenting the awards, the Chief Executive Officer of Prudential Zenith Life, Chuks Igumbor said “We are delighted to offer this scheme to support the development of the actuarial profession in Nigeria and to enhance capacity building in the insurance industry.”

HERE’S 2019 BUDGET...

Yobe State Governor, Ibrahim Gaidam (middle), surrounded by aides, placing copies of the 2019 Finance and Appropriations Bills on the floor of the state House of Assembly shortly after his formal presentation in Damaturu ...yesterday

Akwa Ibom PDP Faults APC’s Call for State of Emergency The Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Paul Ekpo, has described an alleged call by the state Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Ini Okopido, demanding that President Muhammadu Buhari should declare a state of emergency in the state and remove the democratically elected government of Governor Udom Emmanuel as a testimony to the veracity of PDP’s earlier announced intelligence relating to the motive of the APC in instigating violence in the state. In a statement made available to THISDAY, Ekpo recalled that PDP had mentioned that information available to it was to the effect that the chieftains of the APC were planning to instigate violent disruptions of the wheels of governance and provoke the civilian populace to react in like manner, so as

to stimulate their call for the declaration of a state of emergency immediately or the rescheduling of elections in the state. According to Ekpo, APC and her chieftains have always boasted of their total reliance on federal might, which they see as their only highway to power. “Having found Akwa Ibom State as a very peaceful state and with no tangible reason for increased deployment of security forces to the state, the APC and their conspirators (both indigenous and exogenous) had mapped out plans to instigate crisis in different areas of the state. This plan is not new to us, as we are aware of every step of their plans and will continue to alert the public,” Ekpo explained. On the invasion of the House of Assembly and the complicity of the Nigerian Police, Ekpo said it was important to state that

the constitution of the country which is the operational code for all public and private persons, is clear on the steps expected of a presiding officer of any parliament, when a member of the parliament defects without any lawful justification. “In our case, the Speaker of the State Assembly, we have been reliably informed had applied restraint in the declaration of the seats of the law makers until they approached the courts and judgment was given against one of the law makers and the rest teamed up with him in pursuit of an unlawful course, of attempting to prevent the House of Assembly from undertaking its legal responsibilities. It is common knowledge that as at the time the speaker acted in declaring the seats of the former members vacant, there was no subsisting injunction or legal

impediment restraining him or any other person from acting in that direction,” he added. “It is therefore not in doubt that the declaration of the vacancy of seats of the former members was, is and remains constitutional, lawful, legal and extant and there is nothing the APC can do about it. To compare the Akwa Ibom example with that of the National Assembly or any other assembly for that matter, is completely untenable and infantile. Juristic persons are accountable to the law and the donors of their mandate. How they choose to execute the demands of their office within the ambit of law is their prerogative. There is no valid excuse in law that since parliament A has undertaken an illegal act, or accommodated the commission of illegality, that parliament B is bound to do same,” Ekpo said.

2019: ABDULSALAMI-LED COMMITTEE LISTS CONDITIONS FOR PEACEFULPOLL us,” he said. Speaking on the issues that may characterise the campaigns for the 2019 general election, Oshiomhole said Nigerians have become more enlightened and sophisticated in the way they look at issues, adding that for any candidate to convince the electorate to vote for him, such person must show character and integrity among other capacities.

The National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Abdulkadir Abdulsalami, said Nigerians are particularly worried about the behaviour of some arms of security agencies which he said tends to portray them as being partisan. He said the National Peace Committee should also focus attention on engaging the security agencies in order to secure their commitment

to good conduct during the elections. The LP chairman took particular exception to the role of the police in the crisis at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, saying such act does not portray the force as a neutral party in the political contest. Also, the Chairman of the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and National Chairman of Progressive

Peoples Alliance, Peter Ameh, commended the Abdulsalami-led peace committee for sustaining the peace efforts. According to Ameh, the 2019 elections can only be acceptable to Nigerians if the umpire, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), ensures that it is conducted in a free, fair and transparent atmosphere.

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

NFF Motivates Falcons with $10,000Win Bonus against SouthAfrica AW CON 2018 FINAL MATCH The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has opted to double the winning bonus of the Super Falcons as a big incentive ahead Saturday’s 11th Women Africa Cup of Nations Final against the Banyana Banyana of South Africa in Accra. President of the NFF, Amaju Melvin Pinnick, made the pledge when he met with the players and officials at the AH Hotel, Accra on Thursday, as he delivered the good wishes of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) and the football –loving populace of Nigeria to the Cup holders. The Falcons had earned $3,000 for a win in the group phase but were earmarked for $5,000 each for victory in the Final. “I want to let you know that the Government and the good and great people of Nigeria are happy with your performance in the championship so far. They are looking forwards to you retaining the trophy

by beating South Africa on Saturday. “Let me commend the lofty commitment, dedication and resilience that you have displayed so far in the championship, alongside that unique Nigerian spirit that was most in evidence against the Cameroonians in the semi final. You are indeed true champions, and we believe you will retain the Cup on Saturday. Go out there and win on Saturday and earn yourselves $10,000 each, as against the $5,000 that the NFF earlier promised.� The two captains, Onome Ebi and Rita Chikwelu on behalf of the team expressed gratitude to His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR), the NFF, the Nigeria media and football –loving Nigerians at home and in the diaspora for their support to the team, and pledged that they will overcome the Banyana Banyana in Saturday’s final in order to return to Nigeria

with the trophy. Ebi said: “We have the World Cup ticket now, which was always our first target here.

The second is winning the Cup for a third successive time and ninth time overall. It is a mission we are determined

to accomplish on Saturday.� Nigeria defeated South Africa 2-0 in the final of the second edition of the competition in

Johannesburg in 2000, to retain the Cup they had won at the inaugural edition in Nigeria two years earlier.

NFF President Pinnick in a group photograph with the Super Falcons’ players and oďŹƒcials in Accra yesterday

Former Nigerian Boxer, Dafiagbon, Dies in LasVegas WBFTitle Bout Headlines Femi Solaja with agency report Nigerian boxer to Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games, David Dafiagbon, has died of heart complications in Las Vegas, United State of America last Saturday. According to Toronto Sun Newspaper, the Edo-born boxer, who won silver medal for his adopted country, Canada at Atlanta ‘96 Olympics, passed away at the age of 48 and it was former world light heavyweight champion Montell Griffin, who trained with Dafiagbon, that announced the fighter’s passing on his Facebook account. The paper also reported that, Mandy Evans, who has a daughter with Dafiagbon, confirmed the boxer died last Saturday, adding that a

service will be held on Dec. 8 in Las Vegas. Interestingly, Dafiagbon’s former coach, Wayne Gordon, who had kept in touch with his fighter over the years, was supposed to meet up with Dafiagbon in Las Vegas in May of 2017, the week of the Canelo Alverez-Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. fight, but after arriving in Nevada, couldn’t reach the fighter. “He had told me before that his life was not the best,� Gordon said. “He got involved in drugs and alcohol and the night life where he was working as security guard. But the last time I talked to him, everything was sort of good. He said, ‘I got my life straightened out, I’m not drinking anymore, the party scene is behind me.’ I couldn’t wait to see him.� At the Atlanta Games in 1996,

Dafiagbon edged out Frenchman, Christophe Mendy in a controversial circumstances to reach the medal zone but was beaten to the gold medal by more experienced Felix Savon of Cuba and that was the last medal Canada won till date at the quadrennial games till date. Nicknamed ‘The Dream’ joined the Canadian train after meeting with national team coach,Taylor Gordon (Wayne’s father) when the Canadian boxing team touched down in Nigeria during a tour of Africa in 1989. Dafiagbon had won a gold medal for Nigeria at the 1990 Commonwealth Games in Auckland, New Zealand (beating Canadian Greg Johnson in the final), but desperately wanted to escape the poverty and brutal military government of Nigeria.

The chance to elope from Nigeria came at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, the Nigerian boxer saw Taylor Gordon at the athlete’s village, dropped to his knees and begged him to take him to Canada. “There must have been 200 people there and all of a sudden I have this 6-foot-5 guy grabbing me around the legs and begging for my help,� Gordon told the Toronto Sun’s Jim O’Leary in 1996. “He had tears running down his face,� the Toronto paper recalled. The former Canadian navy man came through, arranging Dafiagbon’s passage to Canada, where he moved in with Wayne Gordon and his family in Halifax. Dafiagbon received his Canadian citizenship in time to compete for the Great White North at the 1996 Olympics.

‘LaLiga Playing a Key Role in Ambode for Grand Finale of 50th Asoju Oba Cup the Growth of Football’ In a bid to promote the development of football, both locally and globally, LaLiga oversees training programmes, value-enhancing initiatives and has signed numerous agreements with international organisations. Speaking at an interactive session in Lagos yesterday, Managing Director LaLiga Nigeria, Javier Del Rio, stressed that these efforts are all part of the institution’s quest to ensure that the experience garnered throughout the history of the Spanish league serves to assist the growth of the game and its values across the globe. “ The LaLiga clubs are also heavily involved in this mission, running various strategic projects and signing international agreements, whilst also opening academies and sporting schools throughout the world. The Barcelona Academy in Lagos with over 300 youth players is one of such,� he noted. For almost three seasons now, LaLiga entered into a partnership with the Nigerian Pro-

fessional Football League (NPFL) that allows both Nigerian clubs have insight into the management of the successful Spanish club’s. Nigeria’s U-15 youth team has also benefited from regular the partnership same as the women’s league, the NWFL.Del Rio also stressed that Spanish football’s governing body and its clubs aim to develop the local game internationally, while working to become the second most popular competition in each country, behind the respective domestic leagues. “This operation is based around the following four lines of action: institutional relations, the training of players and coaches, protecting the integrity of the game and social responsibility. “In terms of institutional relations, LaLiga has secured over 30 agreements with federations, leagues and other institutions in countries including the United States, Argentina, Portugal, Nigeria, South Africa, Thailand and Japan.

17th GOtv Boxing Night The 17th edition of GOtv Boxing Night will be headlined by the World Boxing Federation (WBF) Intercontinental super featherweight bout between Nigeria’s Seun Wahab and Tanzania’s Issa Nampepeche. This was announced on Thursday by the organisers at a press conference in Lagos. The WBF Intercontinental super featherweight clash entitles to the winner to take a shot at the WBF world title in the division. The fight is one of the two international clashes billed to take place at the event holding on December 28, at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos. The second international duel in the eight-fight line-up will see US-based Nigerian Oluwafemi Oyeleye take on Meshack Mwankemwa of Tanzania in a middleweight challenge. Also scheduled to be in action is crowd favourite, Olaide Fijabi, who will face Yusuf Mufutau in

a light welterweight challenge contest. Fights on the card also include national lightweight challenge duels between African Boxing Union champion, Oto Joseph and Hammed Ganiyu; Rilwan Oladosu against Mubarak Hamzat; and Ridwan Oyekola against Nurudeen Fatai. In the middleweight division, Femi :Akintayo will take on Ebubechukwu Eze, a graduate of GOtv Boxing NextGen Search 1. The bantamweight division will see action between the best boxer at GOtv Boxing Night 4, Opeyemi Adeyemi, squaring up with Jamiu Dada. President of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C), Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, said the WBF title fight is a sign of GOtv’s desire to put the country back on the world boxing map. GOtv Boxing Night 17, which will feature live artiste performances, will be broadcast live on Supersport to viewers in 47 African countries.

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The sporting loving Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode is expected to the special guest at the grand finale of the 50th Asoju oba Molade Okoya-Thomas Table Tennis Cup which ends on Friday November 30 at the Teslim Balogun Stadium. The governor whose support for table tennis has been confirmed with his presence at the last two finals of the ITTF Nigeria Open will again shows his support for the sport with his presence at the finals of the longest running table tennis tournament in Africa. Aside the governor, dignitaries and friends of the late instigator of the tournament, late Chief Dr Molade Okoya-Thomas will also be available to grace the colourful golden jubilee anniversary of the championship. Already winners in the cadet, junior and doubles events have been decided but the icing on the cake for the players hold

with surprise packages for the winners in the men and women singles events. According to Deji OkoyaThomas, the support of the Lagos State Government through the Lagos State Sports Commission cannot be underestimated as the tournament continues to receive massive support from all and sundry even after the demise of the initiator three years ago. “The Lagos State Government has always supported this competition in one way or the other. I must use this opportunity to thank past Governors who have shown immense support and graced the competition with their presence. We will also like to thank the present Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode for continuing with this tradition of support for the competition and we hope he will present to witness the grand finale where we had prepared surprise packages for the winners this year,� he said.

NSF President Seeks Cooperation to Revive Squash President of the Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF), Boye Oyerinde has appealed to corporate bodies and individuals to join hands in reviving the game of squash in the country. Oyerinde stated this on Wednesday when he paid a courtesy call to the Chief Executive Officer of HS Media Group, Taye Ige as part of his efforts to parley with the media to promote squash in Nigeria. The Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF) was founded in 1974as the governing body that oversees the sport of squash, but little is known about the game by Nigeria which the president described as an interesting game that can shoot Nigeria into fame in the world if proper awareness is created with the help of the media.

“Our plan and strategy is to rebrand the game of squash in Nigeria and the sport really needs a lot of attention,� he said. “We took stock of all the squash courts in the country and we realized that we have over 300 squash courts in this country but less than 10 per cent of them is being used. Some of them have been converted to living rooms, stores and churches� “We also took stock of our players and we realized also that we have over 400 registered players in our database and we know they will keep coming once we have lots of competitions� “As I speak we don’t have a squash national team but we have very good players that could play in any competition in the world and come out with flying colours.

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MISSILE Agbakoba to Buhari “The Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2018 was passed by the National Assembly to address all the challenges created by the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2015. It is therefore important that you sign it into law” – Former President of NBA, Mr. Olisa Agbakoba asking President Buhari to assent to the Electoral Act 2018 in demonstration of his commitment to transparent electoral process.

eniola.bello@thisdaylive.com

@eniolaseni 08055001956

Boko Haram: A General’s Frustrations

“H

a Officer! How did Boko Haram insurgents kill, in one fell swoop, over 70 soldiers of the 157 Battalion, Metele, Borno State right in their barracks? I had thought those anarchists had long been, to borrow a presidential language, “technically defeated” since you showed them your mojo early to mid 2015. Are you allowing them turn you into Boy Scouts, once again? What is going on?”

“Seventy soldiers? A grave understatement! Those killed should be about 200 soldiers; add to that figure eight officers and the Commanding Officer, a lieutenant colonel. Forget the rhetoric of the Army Headquarters that only 23 were killed; it was a disastrous outing. The situation in that part of the country should not be seen as a northeast thing. And it shouldn’t be treated solely as a military affair. Nigeria is at war and the earlier the nation’s political establishment comes to terms with this, the easier it would be to find a solution to the menace.” “You painted a very grim picture, a completely different scenario from serial statements from Army Headquarters of successful operations against the insurgents; or from Air Force Headquarters of successful bombings of Boko Haram camps; or from the Defence Headquarters of how the insurgents’ operational capabilities have been greatly degraded; or from President Muhammadu Buhari and his aides about how much the insurgency has been technically defeated. How do we reconcile all this?” “We can begin to reconcile things by telling the truth for a change. The fact is those in charge of the armed forces have long been lying to themselves, lying to the political authorities, and lying to Nigerians. The military authorities always exaggerate the modest successes on the field while downplaying the challenges. They only tell the politicians what they think the political authorities wanted to hear. They make a meal out of few operational successes and generally understate the casualties. I remember during my tour of duty, the authorities only confirmed nine casualties in an operation where some 300 soldiers were killed. Air Force planes every now and then fly around the operational zone, drop a few bombs randomly and return to base to make outlandish claims of having successfully eviscerated some insurgents’ camps. Where in modern warfare does an air force independently operate without coordinating with soldiers on ground? How do you bomb an enemy’s camp from the air when there is no coordination with the ground troops to follow up with a mop up operation? On the strength of those lies, the political authorities have for long made a song and dance of the so-called technical defeat of Boko Haram even as the insurgents regroup, rearm, remobilize, re-strategize and return to battle stronger,

Defence Minister, Mansur Dan Ali

Chief of Defence Staff, Gabriel Olonisakin

Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai

faster, and deadlier.”

a percentage of the budget dedicated to its administration and welfare, there’s no reason an applicable formula extended to Defence spending, a percentage that should gradually increase over a period of time in the light of worsening security challenges. Lawmakers extort money in the name of some spurious oversight function. And of course, the Defence Ministry bureaucracy distorts the judicious application of military vote. These are some of the problems.”

instance, the US gave the South African government the intelligence information that led to the seizure, in 2014, of $9.3 million cash two Nigerians and an Israeli illegally imported to that country to procure arms. Even now, it is common knowledge in military circles that the US uses our no-fly zone. We neither have the capacity to detect when they do, nor the capability to stop them.”

“Serious matter! What are the challenges really? Why are advances made not consolidated? How come we aren’t making much progress in this war?” The challenge is military. It is also political. Take the T-72, a Russian armoured tank manufactured in 1972 and purchased by the Jonathan administration in 2014. What is no more than a tokunbo hardware is our main battle tank in the theatre of operation. It is akin to driving a Datsun 120Y car – no power steering, no AC, no alloy rims, no tubeless tyres, no spares, no airbag, no auto-transmission, no central lock - in Lagos traffic and struggling for space with modern automobiles. I leave the magnitude of the ensuing headache, for the driver, to your imagination. Those who were sent or made it their duty to negotiate the procurement of this obsolete tank and such other military hardware technology has since left behind were generals who had never fought a battle. They therefore had little or no understanding of the challenges poorly or badly equipped soldiers face. Soldiers, some of whom have grown fat on return from peacekeeping missions in other countries, are immediately deployed to the northeast with no more than two weeks retraining on the nature of the terrain and the terrorists’ unconventional methodology. There are officers who play the fifth columnists, either out of greed or as Boko Haram sympathizers, giving out valuable information to the insurgents on troop movement and capacity. The present military chiefs have exhausted themselves; we need fresh ideas. Politicians influence recruitment and posting. Defence budget is grossly inadequate. The other day there was a great deal of furore over $1 billion special vote for arms. But then military hardware are very expensive, with Air Force and Naval equipment even more so. Pakistan, which has similar problem of insurgency to ours, budgeted $9.6 billion for Defence in 2018. If the National Assembly could have

“With the much trumpeted assistance from the international community, particularly the US and its allies, one had thought that Boko Haram should by now be history.” “Assistance! What assistance? The US has been a big hindrance. I’m sure you know the US refused to sell Nigeria the needed arms and ammunitions to fight the insurgents, since the time of President Jonathan. I’m sure you’re equally aware the US prevented their allies, particularly Israel, from selling arms to the country. The US government had always justified their action on the alleged involvement of Nigerian soldiers in human rights abuses. But that is a hopeless excuse from a country that has never had a problem selling arms to many rogue regimes around the world. What the US would not tell the public is that their decision was their way of arm-twisting, or paying back, Abuja not only for its refusal to approve the setting up of an American military base in Nigeria but also its turning down Uncle Sam’s request for unhindered access through the country’s no-fly zone. Personally, I see no reason why the government denied them their request except for some emotional sense of national pride. But emotions can’t be converted to military advantage. Had Nigeria granted the US request, we would have been able to learn one or two things from them. Since our refusal, the US has set up a military base in Niger Republic, our neighbor to the north. From there, they gather whatever strategic information on Nigeria that catches their fancy. For

“Aren’t these issues discussed at meetings of senior officers?” “Aaahhh! Don’t make me laugh! Yes, the issues come up at meetings. But honest discussion, that’s another matter entirely. Officers who have the courage of their convictions to speak honestly are either posted to military schools, if not abandoned there in punishment, or are conveniently overlooked during promotion exercises. Meetings are therefore hollow; all have learnt to speak without speaking, and for self-advancement, watch and coast along. “ “So how long do you think this war with Boko Haram would go on?” “Should we continue handling the situation the way it is presently being handled, I’m afraid we may be on this matter for another 15 years at least. Indeed, the situation can only get worse as it is getting to the point where the insurgents will begin repossessing territories. However, if we operated from the prism of a country at war, properly and consistently equip the armed forces, and de-politicize the military, we should be able to end the conflict within the next 10 years.” “Seriously!” “Well you can help us by bringing our frustrations to public attention, perhaps those who make decisions for us would read you and act.” “I can only try.”

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