SATURDAY 8TH DECEMBER 2018

Oil Hits $62 as OPEC, Allies Agree to Cut Production By 1.2mbd Kachikwu: Nigeria will reduce production by 40,000bd FG proposes N8.6trn Budget for 2018 Chika Amanze-Nwachuku in Lagos, Chineme Okafor in Vienna, Austria and Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja with agency report The Organisation of Petroleum

Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies agreed yesterday to cut oil production by 1.2 million barrels per day, owing to a record global crude glut and the need to halt the price slump.

This is coming on the heels of the approval of a budget proposal of N8.6 trillion for 2019 by President Muhammadu Buhari.

OPEC and allies ended their meetings in Vienna yesterday

with an agreement for member countries to reduce output by 800,000 barrels a day and allied producers to cut by 400,000 barrels a day, with Russia contributing as much as 230,000bd of this.

The group will collectively curb production by 1.2 million barrels a day, higher than the 1 million barrel-a-day scenario that was earlier floated, Bloomberg reported.

The larger-than-expected

deal to reduce output saw the Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, jump 4.5% to $62.76 a barrel on London’s Intercontinental Exchange.

Continued on page 6

Appeal Court AďŹƒrms Prisoners’ Right to Vote in Elections‌ Page 8 Saturday 8 December, 2018 Vol 23. No 8634

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EFCC, Usoro Tangle over ‘Attorney’s Privilege’ Usoro: Judicially, historically, issues of fees between lawyer, client, matter of privilege EFCC: NBA President has questions to answer Alex Enumah in Abuja The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), yesterday, insisted the President of the Nigerian

Bar Association (NBA), Paul Usoro, has a case to answer over the N1.4 billion paid his law firm as professional fees by the Akwa Ibom State Government.

Usoro said the fees were for him and “other eminent members of the Inner Bar and to a host of other members of the Outer Bar� whom he had engaged to work with

him in respect of several dispute resolution matters for the state’s government.

In a speech at the NBA National Executive Committee meeting held on December

6, 2018 in Abuja, Usoro agreed that he had “been questioned by the EFCC in the last several months in respect of fees that my firm had been paid by Akwa Ibom

State Government (AKSG) between 2015 and 2016 and also fees that Governor Udom Emmanuel, the Governor of Continued on page 6

Citing Threat to 2019 Polls, Buhari Rejects New Electoral Bill Again Passing a new electoral bill for 2019 general election could create uncertainties PDP, CNPP urge N’Assembly to override veto Deji Elumoye, Shola Oyeyipo and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja For the fourth time, President Muhammadu Buhari has withheld his assent to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2018 transmitted to him by the National Assembly, fueling speculation of imminent confrontation with the National Assembly over the issue.

In a letter dated December 6 titled ‘Presidential Decision to Decline Assent to the Electoral (Amendment) Bill, 2018’, addressed to the President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, Buhari explained that he was declining assent "principally because passing a new electoral bill this far into the electoral process for the 2019 general

election, which commenced under the 2015 Electoral Act, could create some uncertainties about the applicable legislation to govern the process."

Saraki, who had reacted earlier yesterday to the probability of the President rejecting the bill, condemned Buhari’s action, saying it was a threat to democracy, while the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties, (CNPP) called on both chambers of the National Assembly to save the country’s democracy by overriding the President’s veto.

However, Buhari’s position was that any change in the electoral rules few weeks to the 2019 polls could cause disruption and confusion Continued on page 6

Boko Haram Attacks Three Borno Communities, Destroys UNICEF Clinic... Page 14

FAREWELL MA GOLDCOAST...

L-R: Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha Jonah; former President Goodluck Jonathan and the Governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson during the Service of Songs in honour of the governor’s late mother, Ma Goldcoast, in Yenagoa... Thursday night

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T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž Ë&#x153; Î&#x20AC;Ë&#x153; ͺ͸͚Î&#x20AC;

PAGE SIX CITING THREAT TO 2019 POLLS, BUHARI RE JECTS NEW ELECTORAL BILL AGAIN over which law governs the electoral process.

The president further listed four provisions of the Bill that required drafting amendments by the National Assembly. They include Section Five of the Bill amending Section 18 of the Act of the Principal Act which should indicate the subsection to which the substitution of the figure "30" for the figure "60" is to be effected and Section 11 of the Bill amending Section 36 should indicate the subsection in which the proviso is to be introduced.

Other drafting amendments identified in the Bill by President Buhari are Section 24 of the Bill which amends Section 85(1), which he said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;should be redrafted in full while the definition of the term â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Ward Collection Officerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; should be revised to reflect a more descriptive definition than the capitalised and undefined term â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Registration Area Collation Officer.â&#x20AC;?

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly (Senate), Senator Ita Enang, who made the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision to veto the Bill known to State House Correspondents yesterday, said the amendment bill had been transmitted back to the lawmakers.

The presidential aide however said President Buhari had assented to the amendment made to the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Act, which

will now allow it operate as other universities do.

When asked why Buhari returned the bill to NASS, he said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The president has communicated his decision to the National Assembly and that is what it is now.â&#x20AC;?

When asked if it was safe to say the president rejected the bill, Enang said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is safe to say that the president has taken decision as allowed by law and has communicated that decision to the Senate and the House of Representatives.â&#x20AC;?

When asked the implication of the decision on the 2019 elections, Enang explained: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The implication of the decision is that the president has taken action on the bill within the time allowed by law.â&#x20AC;?

Meanwhile, the CNPP has warned on the negative impact of not assenting to amendments to Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Electoral Act before next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s general elections, noting that it would endanger the deepening of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s democracy.

CNPPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Secretary General, Chief Willy Ezugwu said in a statement issued in Abuja yesterday that â&#x20AC;&#x153;there are indications that a cabal that resents credible electoral process is bent on frustrating the signing of any amendment to the electoral laws ahead of 2019.â&#x20AC;?

According to the umbrella organisation of all registered political parties and political associations in the country,

â&#x20AC;&#x153;it has become obvious that while President Buhari may ordinarily wish to ensure credible electoral process, some persons around him, which constitute the cabal, resent free and fair contest and may have again deceived him into withholding assent to the bill. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The CNPP, as a body conceived as a common platform for political parties in Nigeria, shares common concerns of well-meaning Nigerians on issues bordering on rule of law, promotion and defence of democratic principles and practices. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Therefore, this singular rejection of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill (2018)

by Mr. President is another repressive attempt to stem multi-party democracy and have completely removed the last hope of level playing ground for all political parties in the forthcoming elections. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is ironical that President Muhammadu Buhari has been promising free and fair elections and at the same time refusing to give effect to the only instrument that would have proven his commitment to credible electoral process in 2019.

The CNPP added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;As one of the greatest beneficiary of free and fair election from the last administration, we thought that Mr. President and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) should have been at the forefront of promoting

transparency in elections. â&#x20AC;&#x153;However, to save our democracy and to take Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s electoral process to the next level of free and fair polls, not the next level of rigging, we demand that the National Assembly, as a matter of urgency, override Mr. Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s veto with a two-third-majority. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As it stands, the only hope Nigerians have left now rests on the National Assemblyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s willingness to do the needful at this trying moment in our democratic journeyâ&#x20AC;?.

On its part, the Peoples Democratic Partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Presidential Campaign Organisation (PPCO) said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s repeated refusal to sign amendments passed to check rigging in the election, raises issues of his sincerity of purpose and has the capacity to trigger political unrest and violence, which could in turn, truncate the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s democracy.â&#x20AC;?

The Director of Media and Publicity of the campaign council, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was unfortunate that Mr. President, in his desperation to hold on to power, has resorted to taking steps that are capable of destabilising the nation, just because the people are resolute in voting him out of office democratically.â&#x20AC;?

Against this background, the PDP Campaign said that legislative action had become imperative â&#x20AC;&#x153;as the

Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision was a calculated attempt to hold the nation to ransom, inject crisis into the electoral process and ultimately scuttle the conduct of the 2019 general elections, having realised that there is no way he could win in a free and fair contest.â&#x20AC;?

Ologbondiyan further added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is also instructive to note that President Buhari is mortally afraid of the amendments because they essentially checked the All Progressives Congress (APC) rigging plans, including the use of underage and alien voters, vote-buying, alteration of results and manipulation of voter register; which the APC and the Buhari Presidency have been boasting they will employ to win the 2019 elections. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While urging the National Assembly to save our democracy and forestall an imminent electoral crisis, the PPCO also charges all political parties, other critical stakeholders and Nigerians in general, to rise in the interest of our nation and demand the entrenching of rules and processes that will guarantee the conduct of free, fair and credible elections, as nothing short of that will be accepted.â&#x20AC;?

The party pointed out that this was the fourth time President Buhari was withholding assent to the amendment, without any cogent reason, following his rejection by Nigerians.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nigerians can recall how the Buhari Presidency plotted to plunge the 2019 elections into a needless controversy by delaying the submission of the election budget to the National Assembly, presenting it at the time the legislators were commencing their annual vacation and asking for virement of funds already approved for development projects, instead of sending a fresh supplementary budget for the election,â&#x20AC;? he added.

Similarly, the Senate President, Saraki, expressed worry that the president refused to assent the bill, despite that all what he asked for were factored in. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I made a statement two days ago, appealing to Mr. President to sign the Electoral Act Amendment Bill before him. We have made amendments and amendments.

Everything he (Buhari) has asked for, we have changed it four times so that he can sign. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We know there are those who are telling him not to sign. Even I heard some have gone to court so that he can use the excuse not to sign.

That is a dangerous precedent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He has the prerogative to sign or not to sign. In the event he does not sign, I believe as political parties, we have the right, authority to also demand from INEC in terms of engagement. Political parties can take a position.

This is the type of election they wantâ&#x20AC;?, Saraki said.

Attaching what he described as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;non-exhaustive list of these matters,â&#x20AC;? the SAN then added that â&#x20AC;&#x153;the outstanding fees due to us from the State Government in respect of these matters is far in excess of what has so far been paid on account and prior to your letter, we have been in the process of reconciling and settling accounts with the State Government.â&#x20AC;?

Reacting yesterday to Usoroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speech at the NBA meeting, the EFCC in a statement by its acting spokesman, Tony Orilade said, "From the foregoing and in line with the mandate of the Commission, the SAN definitely has questions to

answer before a competent court of jurisdiction on allegation of money laundering and no amount of intimidation and or razzmatazz can stop the Commission from carrying out legitimate assignment of investigation and prosecution of financial impropriety.

"The act of making such humongous payment of over a billion naira to an individual from state vault raises reasonable suspicion of money laundering. This may amount to a disservice to the people of Akwa Ibom state, and we shall not rest on our oars and allow such financial crime to continue unabated.

Paul Usoro, SAN, surely has a case to answer."

The statement further quoted Usoro to have said that the payments were â&#x20AC;&#x153;independent transactions and the Akwa Ibom State Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s payments-on-account were in respect of my firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s professional services to the State, while the payments to the senior counsel were made by me for and on behalf of Gov. Udom Emmanuel, at his request.â&#x20AC;?

The EFCC argued that, while not disregarding such relationship, payment of over N1.4 billion to Usoro from the account of Akwa Ibom State Government for unofficial transaction was nothing short of criminal diversion of public funds.

almost three hours.

The Minister of Budget and Planning, Mr. Udoma Udoma had in November announced that the federal government was considering a leaner 2019 budget of N8.6 trillion, which is thinner than the N9.1 trillion approved by lawmakers for 2018.

Recall that the minister who spoke during a consultative forum on the medium term expenditure framework and fiscal strategy paper 2019-2021, said the decision to adopt a leaner 2019 budget was due to reduced government revenue projection for the year.

He also said government planned to cut down the level of borrowing from N1.6 trillion in 2018 to N1.5 trillion in 2019, while the deficit component would be reduced from N1.9 trillion in 2018 to N1.6 trillion in 2019. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The N8.6 trillion Budget 2019 presented by the Ministry of Budget and Planning was approved by FEC,â&#x20AC;? said a source at the meeting.

Udoma, who spoke with state house correspondents after the special FEC meeting yesterday, said the council would liaise with the National Assembly to

fix a date when the president will present the draft budget for the consideration of the Senate and the House of Representatives. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The federal executive council has approved the 2019 budget proposal and the details will be presented to a joint session of the national assembly on a date to be fixed by the lawmakers,â&#x20AC;? Udoma said.

Udo-Udoma stated that the next stage was to liaise with the National Assembly to pick a date for the presentation of the estimates by Buhari.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It will be presented to the National Assembly; we will have to consult them in terms of the date of that presentation. The budget is the Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budget; it is the President that presents it; I would be usurping his authority if I gave further details. We are hoping to be in touch with the National Assembly as soon as possible. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They have to agree to the date they will receive the budget. We are going to be in touch with them immediately; but the budget is ready. If I speculate on that, I will be encroaching on the role of the National Assembly.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

EFCC, USORO TANGLE OVER â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ATTORNEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PRIVILEGEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Akwa Ibom State had paid me for the benefit of Counsel that worked on his Election Petition Appeal that was decided by the Supreme Court early in 2016.â&#x20AC;?

He said the investigation of the professional fees that were paid to his firm or through them to some other counsel â&#x20AC;&#x153;has very serious and farreaching implications for all of us and the practice of our profession,â&#x20AC;? which he urged them not to ignore.â&#x20AC;?

He explained some dire implications for client-lawyer privilege, saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;It has judicially and historically been acknowledged that issues of fees, as between a lawyer and his client are a matter of

privilege.

He said the EFCC lacked locus standi in Client-Lawyer contractual relationship, adding that â&#x20AC;&#x153;there is no provision in Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s statute books that constitutes the EFCC into the auditor of legal fees.â&#x20AC;?

He added that â&#x20AC;&#x153;the EFCC appears to be straining quite hard to criminalise the fees that are earned by lawyers for their legitimate work,â&#x20AC;? stating that his was not the first of these intrusions. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We recall the case of Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, when the EFCC attempted to forfeit his fees on the pretext that the funds came from illegal sources.â&#x20AC;?

Usoro also stressed the

independence of legal profession and practice, stating that the practice of law was founded on the independence of the legal practitioner and his courage to advocate on behalf of his client to the best of his ability and conviction, saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;that independence and the courage to advocate are now being threatened and trampled upon by the EFCC.â&#x20AC;?

Few months back, Usoro had confirmed, in a letter dated 05 June 2018, to the Head, Bank Fraud Section of the EFCC that â&#x20AC;&#x153;the payments-on-account were made by the Akwa Ibom State Government in respect of several dispute resolution matters that we handled and are still handling for the State.â&#x20AC;?

OIL HITS $62 AS OPEC, ALLIES AGREE TO CUT PRODUCTION BY 1.2MBD West Texas Intemediate futures, the U.S. oil standard, were up 3.8% to $53.42 a barrel on New Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mercantile Exchange.

Both benchmarks were near their highest points in two weeks.

Crude oil has steadily dropped since early October amid concern over growing supplies and as the U.S. issued waivers exempting some nations from adhering to imposed sanctions on Iranian crude.

Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, told THISDAY that Nigeria could contribute up to 40,000b/d out of the 800,000b/d, representing about 2.5 per cent of her 1.7million barrels per day mb/d current production level.

Kachikwu, explained that the output cut was as a matter of fact in the best interest of Nigeria, adding that with larger oil volumes in the market weakening prices, Nigeria would have found it difficult to implement its budget for 2019.

The minister, who had initially indicated Nigeria will not seek an exemption but will commit to the cut, explained that the group did the right

thing and avoided a potential catastrophe that would have hit producers and the oil industry.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;There were a lot of difficulties in getting all the parties together whilst everybody were willing to cut, we knew the market fundamentals ensured we had to, we had excess of 1.3 million barrels, we need to take that off the market. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As long as Russia would match us, there was the willingness to do that but the issue was some countries were not willing to do that, Nigeria like you know got exemption three times and the natural thing was this time nobody should get an exemption and we had to navigate that because there were countries who had genuine reasons.â&#x20AC;?

On what Nigeria would give up, he said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The average is about 2.5 per cent flat reduction for every production and so if you take (that) out from 1.7 million barrels that probably translate to 40,000 barrels per day.â&#x20AC;?

Asked if the cut had any impact on Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budget with regards to production volume, he said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It has but has the potential of saving

your budget matter of fact, because if we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, prices were already sliding, yesterday prices dropped by five per cent and were about $58 or $59 and if we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t reach a resolution, it could be down to $40. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you look at the value of 40,000 barrels versus the gap of earning $70 per barrel - I would imagine that prices would hover around $65 or more, and if we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do that, the budget will be dead. This was a savings mechanism to hold the money than holding the barrels. Technically, Nigeria is not affected; it is a win for Nigeria.â&#x20AC;?

Further details of the agreement as stated by the President of the OPEC Conference and Minister of Energy and Industry of the United Arabs Emirate, Mr. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, and Russian Energy Minister, Alexander Novak, at a press conference after their joint meeting showed that Iran; Venezuela; and Libya were granted exemptions from the cuts because they either suffered sanctions or production disruptions, and would not be able to participate in the cut.

Mazrouei explained that

the meeting discussed the increasing market volatility and the broad consensus on the prospects for 2019 that suggest higher supply growth than global requirements, taking into account prevailing uncertainties. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In view of the current fundamentals and the consensus view of a growing imbalance in 2019, the Conference decided to adjust OPEC overall production by 0.8mbd from October 2018 levels, effective as of January 2019, for an initial period of six months, with a review in April 2019,â&#x20AC;? said Mazrouei.

He further stated that the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee (JMMC) of the parties will monitor timely and fair implementation of the production cuts resolution and report back on a regular basis.

FG Proposes N8.6trn Budget for 2018 Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has approved a budget proposal of N8.6 trillion for 2019.

The approval was granted yesterday during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by the President, which lasted

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L-R: General Manager, Business Development, MTN, Valentine Izuchukwu; Senior Manager, Sales Channel, MTN, Stella Nwosisi; MTN Partner, Mrs. Amina Ogunde; MTNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sales and Distribution Executive, Kunle Adebiyi; Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle and Merchandising Manager, MTN, Olaleke Fakeye during the recent Oronna Day celebrations in Ilaro, Ogun State sponsored by MTN.

FG, Abia Sign Deal for N500bn Enyimba Economic City President Buhari to inaugurate project before general elections

CharlesAjunwaĂ&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2018;Ă&#x2122;Ă? Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17D;Â Â Shola Oyeyipo Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Ă&#x;Ă&#x201D;Ă&#x2039; The federal government and Abia State yesterday penned the N500 billion Enyimba Economic City project at Aba, Abia State, where the federal government has taken 20 per cent equity of N100 billion. The project is a private sector driven. Â Regarded as project capable of sparking industrial revolution in Nigeria, the Enyimba Economic City is a 9, 803 hectares of new economic city, spanning three local government areas of Ukwa East, Ukwa West and Ugwunagbo.

It is located at the centre of the five South-east and four South-south states and is to be designed to drive massive economic expansion of the region and by extension Nigeria.Â

The Enyimba City Economic Zone Limited signed on behalf of the Abia State Government while Nigeria Special Economic Zone Company signed on behalf the federal government at a colourful signing ceremony that took place at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

President Muhammadu Buhari who witnessed the signing, commended the Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu for initiating the project and thanked the host communities for their commitment to the project, saying that everyone should be more confident of the success of the project since the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments, Okechukwu Enelamah, under whose portfolio it falls, hails from Abia State.

The President assured the people of Abia State and other Nigerians of the federal governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support and

cooperation towards similar project anywhere in the country President Buhari specifically commended Ikpeazu, and some private sector investors who initiated and midwifed the Enyimba City Economic Zone project.

He said such initiatives were exactly what his administration was desperately looking for to create employment for the populace and boost the national economy as at full capacity, it was expected to create 625,000 direct jobs.

In his remarks, Ikpeazu who led the delegation of leaders and stakeholders from the state, thanked the President for his support for the project, noting that Aba, the commercial city of Abia State where the project is sited, was strategically located for easy access from all South-east and South-south states.

He disclosed that Aba alone has

Atiku Meets with CUPP, Promises Government of National Unity if Elected PDP hands over partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flag to Lagos, Oyo, Ogun guber candidates Adedayo Akinwale Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Ă&#x;Ă&#x201D;Ă&#x2039; Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar Friday met with the leadership of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) where he promised to run a government of national unity if elected in 2019.

The CUPP, which comprise more than 45 major opposition parties had on Wednesday adopted Atiku as their presidential candidate.

The National Spokesperson of the Coalition, Ikenga Ugochinyere said that the decision was arrived at few hours after a closed door deliberation by members of the CUPP at Shehu Musa Yarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Adua Centre, Abuja.

He said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over 41 political parties in attendance endorsed the decision which enjoyed majority support.

The coalition arrived at the choice of Abubakar after he towered high on

the criteria used by the opposition in arriving at the decision.â&#x20AC;?

The meeting which started by 11a.m. yesterday at Trancorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, had Chairmen of over 43 political parties and over 15 Presidential Candidates in attendance.

Also in attendance were the Senate President and Director General of the Campaign Council, Dr. Bukola Saraki, Chairman of the CUPP, Prince Olagunsoye Onyinlola, Chief Tom Ikimi, Alhaji Kawu Baraje, Senator Dino Melaye, former Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, among others.

Speaking, Atiku described his endorsement by CUPP as historic endorsement, saying that it was historic because he believed it was the first time it would be done in this form. According to him, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You have not taken a wrong decision because the PDP since we formed it in 1998,

is a party that believes in national government, the participation of many Nigerians irrespective of their political affiliation.â&#x20AC;?

To this end, the former vice president said that he was committed to a government of national unity.

He stated, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We believe as a political party, in national unity and there must be stability before you can do anything, implement your economic programme, before you can implement your healthcare programme.â&#x20AC;?

Atiku said that the government of national unity should be essential, adding that when PDPÂ won elections on its own, it brought in opposition parties.

He noted, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to commit myself to the continuation of the doctrine of government of national unity. We have a lot of work to do together, we should not go back and rest and say we have endorsed. We have to deliberately take certain actions to make sure that we achieve our objectives.

over 250,000 artisans engaged in various arts and trades and that the Enyimba City zone covers three local governments of the state.

The governor noted that the project would not only be of immense benefit to Abia State but to the entire region and country.

Commenting on the Enyimba Economic City project, the governor in an exclusive interview with THISDAY said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most of our people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bequeath legacies that are futuristic, today, I am from the South-east and I am pushing for the Enyimba Economic Zone, in the entire South-east we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have such, it is not a coincidence that it is coming to Abia but it is a product of deep thinking and planning. This project will blossom and create 200,000 jobs because of the sheer enormity of the positive effects on my people.

I see the concomitant impact on the life of my people and area. I

know my people are people who want to create things, all you need to do is to make them neighbours to people who are actively manufacturing, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make them neighbours of those counting money, if an Abia man is to succeed, make him a neighbour of someone who is actively manufacturing and you will see him fabricate that machine somewhere and start producing, so in doing this I needed to be futuristic, I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be an election politician but I want to be politician for development.â&#x20AC;?

Apart from setting up a team of experts that worked on the plan, Ikpeazu noted that they studied other models of development.  â&#x20AC;&#x153;We studied Singapore, Dubai and other models of development and we said what is it that we are not doing right here. The first thing is that a leader that wants to create something unique and remarkable and profound must divest himself of any

interest that is pecuniary and we said this thing must be private sector driven and I must not be seen on the driving seat; it must have profit motive and be competitive in nature and it must bear the signature of being excellent. So, we said let us go and see those who had a hand in the concept design of the development models of Dubai and Singapore and we got Subarajuran to come and look at the Enyimba Economic City, this is the land area, what do we make out of it.

For over two years they were going back and forth, that is why today if you put Enyimba Economic City side by side with economic cities around Africa, people will go for Enyimba City because the foundation is strong and they will see the consultants that did the work. I am saying if you are serious about creating something of world-class standards, you do not care the cost.

Appeal Court AfďŹ rms Prisonersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Right to Vote in Elections Adibe Emenyonu Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă?Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x17E;ĂŁ

The Court of Appeal in Benin City, Edo State, has granted an appeal seeking to direct the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to include names of Nigerians in various prisons in the country in the voter register.

The appellate court, however, refused to grant a declaration that INEC should liaise with the Nigeria Prison Service to create a registration centre at various prisons across the country.

The appeal was filed by Victor Emenuwe, Onome Inaye, Kabiru Abu, Osagie Iyekekpolor and Modugu Odion who are inmates on behalf of other inmates in Nigeria prisons across the country.

Justice S. Oseji who read the lead judgement on behalf of Justice Helen Ogunwumiju

said the appellant could appeal the ruling.

Speaking to journalists after the court ruling, Counsel to the appellant, President Aigbokhan of the Initiative for Rural Development, Information and Legal Advocacy (IRDILA) urged INEC to commence immediate registration of inmates across the country for them to participate in next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s election.

Aigbokhan said they would appeal part of the decision of the Court of Appeal.

According to him, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Prison inmates have their community.

Polling units should be located there. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our clients are inmates in prisons. We believe they have a right to vote in an election so as to decide those who ultimately decide their future. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When franchise is given to

them, attention will be focused there. Their situation and health conditions will be improved â&#x20AC;&#x153;In 2014, the Federal High Court granted our prayers that prisoners can vote but narrowed it to the four applicants in the suit even though it was stated there that those applicants were representing other inmates. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We went to the Court of Appeal and the court agreed that the judgement represent all inmates in the country. That INEC should with immediate effect collection of the names of inmates and allow them to vote in 2019. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The judgment has disagreed that INEC should create polling units inside the prison. In 2015, the inmates are over 550,000. All INEC need to do is to update their voter register and liaise with NGOs as volunteers to help them. It is victory for Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s democracy.â&#x20AC;?

9

DECEMBER 8, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

RingTrue

Yemi

Adebowale

07013940521 yemi.adebowale@thisdaylive.com

Deconstructing Buhari’s ‘Next Level’ Agenda

I

have spent quality time reading President Muhammadu Buhari’s “Next level” document launched to herald his 2019 presidential election campaign. The paper explains where he intends to take Nigerians to if he gets a second term. I am not sorry to say that those who prepared this document for Buhari are simply out to bamboozle Nigerians. Considering the abysmal performance of this government in the last three and half years, Buhari’s “Next level” ideas and priorities are clearly unattainable. It is just cheap talk.

The document talks about creating five million jobs through N-Power and agriculture. This government failed woefully in this area in its first term and will fail again in job creation if it gets a second term. The trend in developed climes is for government to create an enabling environment for the private sector to generate jobs. Buhari and his men still don’t understand this. The operating environment is stifling for businesses. This is what should be addressed instead of talking about using public funds to create phony jobs. A man gets N30,000 government money for a maximum of two years, working where he is not really needed and you call that job creation?

Existing industrial estates across the country are in tatters and under-utilised due to infrastructural challenges and inclement operating environment. Buhari should visit the likes of Kakuri, Sherada, Bompai, Ogba and Ikeja industrial estates to understand what I am talking about.

Manufacturers are gasping for survival, while providing their own electricity, water, road, security, in addition to stifling multiple taxations by all levels of governments. These are the challenges a forward-looking government should address, instead of talking about creating six regional industrial parks and special economic zones. The “next level” also talks about building “109 Special Production and

Buhari

Processing Centres (SPPCs) to spur production and value additive processing, and the provision of tractors and processors plants in each senatorial district to create extra jobs.”

This is preposterous. In modern economies, these are private-sector driven activities.

There is also the plan to create 300, 000 extra jobs for vendors and farmers by “increasing the school feeding from 9.3 million pupils to next level of 15 million pupils.” Honestly, I don’t know where the 9.3 million pupils they claim to have been feeding for almost four years are. Now, they are talking about increasing this to 15 million pupils in the next four years and creating 300, 000 extra jobs.

The truth about this voodoo school feeding programme will emerge very soon.

In the area of infrastructure, Buhari’s “Next Level” promises to deliver so many

railway projects. A government that failed to deliver just one railway project in four years is promising “to complete the IbadanKano phase of the Lagos-Ibadan-Kano rail, complete Eastern rail (Port Harcourt-Maiduguri) taking the network through Abia, all South-east states capitals, Makurdi, Jos, Bauchi and Gombe; complete the coastal rail project (Lagos-Calabar) and complete the link on Itakpe-Warri rail to Abuja through Lokoja and make it operational.”

In the area of roads, it promised to “complete the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria to Kano; complete works on federal roads using Sukuk Bonds in each states of the federation; complete the Second Niger Bridge connecting Anambra and Delta States and to complete the East-West road connecting Warri, Delta to Oron, Akwa-Ibom, through Kaiama and Port Harcourt in Bayelsa and Rivers States.”

Haba! These listed projects run into several billions of USD. They did not even do due financial diligence before rolling out these projects for completion in another four years. Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail line alone will cost $9.2 billion. This is according to the Transport Minister, Amaechi. They are still negotiating for the loan with the Chinese government. Even if Buhari remains in power for 20 years, he won’t be able to complete all the roads and railway projects listed. Those who compiled Buhari’s “Next Level” deserve to be caned.

In the area of power, Buhari’s “Next Level” drafters forgot that they promised to increase generation to 10,000MW within their first term, which they have obviously failed to actualize. Nigeria remains in perpetual darkness. Now, they are promising to “add a minimum of 1,000 MW new generation incremental power capacity per annum on the grid, to bring it to a total of a minimum of 11, 000MW and distribution is to get to 7,000MW under distribution expansion programme.” There is so much confusion here. These people are clearly jesters.

Malami, Magu Dancing Naked in Public The Attorney General of the Federation/Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami and the EFCC boss, Ibrahim Magu will not stop dancing naked in public, a clear sign of an uncoordinated government. The EFCC was at a Special Offences Court in Lagos State about three weeks ago, where it resisted attempt by Malami to take over the trial of businessman, Dr. John Abebe. The anti-graft agency had in July arraigned Abebe, before Justice Mojisola Dada on a four-count charge of forgery, fabricating evidence and attempting to pervert the course of justice. Shortly after the prosecution and the defence counsels had announced their appearance, Malami, through a counsel from his office, Pius Akuta, rose and prayed the court for a short adjournment.

Akuta informed the court that he had the instruction of his boss (AGF) to seek a short adjournment “in order to review the case file in view of the some latest developments in the case.” He added that a lot of petitions had come up which necessitated a review of the case.

Dangling a letter before the court,

the counsel noted that Malami gave him instruction that the file be transmitted to him to enable him look into all pending petitions on the matter before him.

Counsel to EFCC, Rotimi Oyedepo resisted the takeover of the case, saying he had not been informed by Magu. He told the court that even if the AGF wanted to take over the case, there were some basic administrative procedures to be followed.

He urged the court not to be persuaded by the antics of the AGF as he was a meddlesome interloper.

Oyedepo contended that since the proper administrative procedures were not followed, Akute could be on a personal mission. He said the court should not succumb to the antics of Akuta as the AGF knows what to do administratively if he has interest in the matter. Justice Dada eventually ruled that the case should proceed.

I took the pain to narrate the shenanigans that went on in the court over the Abebe case so that Nigerians can understand the extent of unhealthy rivalry between Malami and Magu. These two

Malami

state agents have persistently exposed the high level of indiscipline and lack of coordination of the Buhari government.

Moving forward, one of these men must make way for the other. Buhari must sack one of them.

Unending Attacks on Military Bases Attacks on military bases by Boko Haram are unending. So far, 22 military bases have been attacked. They areGajiram, Mainok, Rann, Geidam, Sasawa, Magumeri, Malam Fatori, Gashigha, Kanama, Gamboru-Ngala, Mafa, Damasak, Gudumbali, Garunda, Kunduga, Kareto, Jilli, Arge, Zari, Arege, Metele and Buni Gari. It is so painful. This country has been losing soldiers in their hundreds to the terrorists, without a proactive response.

While still lamenting how Boko Haram easily overwhelmed Metele and Arege

military bases in Borno State, another base in Buni Gari, 60 kilometres from Damaturu (Yobe State) was attacked by the Islamic State West Africa Province faction of the terror group last Saturday. The terrorists destroyed an armoured vehicle and stole a truck during the attack. According to security sources, eight soldiers were killed in the Buni Gari attack. “The death toll is now eight. Six more bodies of soldiers were later recovered and moved to Damaturu. All the eight dead soldiers are now in the morgue at the Specialist Hospital in Damaturu.”

The terrorists are obviously dominating while the federal government is still sleeping. After almost four years, it only realised just this week that the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai and the Chief of Air Staff, Sadique Abubakar ought to be operating from Maiduguri and ordered them to the war zone. What a government! Things have just got to change. The Buhari government must show seriousness in this war against Boko Haram by overhauling the leadership of the military and seeking help from developed countries.

Saraki

The Prickly Approval for New Higher Institutions The news in town is that the Senate has directed the federal government to establish 10 new higher institutions across the country. The resolution was made last week after the lawmakers adopted the report of its Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund. The 10 new higher institutions approved by the Senate included one polytechnic to be located in the hometown of President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, Katsina State.

The federal lawmakers claimed that the establishment of the institutions would open up the education space in the country. They expressed the belief that the step would assist the country in the fight against illiteracy. The Senate also said that the approval for the establishment of the institutions was in line with the policy to create polytechnics across the states.

These lawmakers have obviously lost touch with modern trends in the development of education. How can they be talking about establishment of new federal higher institutions when existing ones are wallowing in abject poverty due to poor funding? Are they even aware that university teachers have been on strike for weeks, largely because of poor funding of federal and state-owned institutions? Are these lawmakers saying that they are unaware that university and polytechnic teachers are persistently on strike over the poor state of these institutions? Existing institutions are poorly equipped and underfunded.

Instead of addressing these problems, our lawmakers want 10 new higher institutions established. Where will the funds come from? They obviously want the federal government to establish more glorified secondary schools to be called polytechnics.

Well, our lawmakers need some education here. The standard in decent climes is for government to provide an enabling environment for individuals and private organisations to invest in higher education. In this modern era, you won’t hear of the British or United States government establishing higher institutions. It only happens in countries like ours that have refused to develop.

Governments in sound societies create enabling environment for the private sector to do this.

10

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 8, 2018

SUPER SATURDAY

For Sola Sobowale, No Cuddling, Kissing in Movies Nollywood veteran, Sola Sobowale, is one superstar actress whose pedigree and stance remains defined by her kind of roles, writes Ferdinand Ekechukwu

D

efinitely one of Nigeria’s movie icons, Sola Sobowale’s pedigree as a reputable actor was long established when she first starred in the famous soap opera,Village Headmaster. That debut set the path for her acting career in the movie industry. Her foray into acting actually began when she was enrolled at the University of Ibadan to study music with the aid of her in-law, Tunji Oyelana.

She however switched to Theatre Arts because of her passion for acting. From the rested ‘Village Headmaster’ to Lola Fani-Kayode’s ‘Mirror in the Sun’ to Femi Osofisan’s stage play, ‘Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again,’ it was a steady rise for her.

The ‘King of Boys’ star however said she won’t bring herself so low to kiss and cuddle amorously in any movie scene just because she needed to interpret her role perfectly.

In a recent interview, she said, “Yes ooh, they are so many.

I am not going to go naked, definitely and no smooching.

Nobody is coming to smooch me, no smooching. I am a typical African woman; let’s stay like that, don’t let us take it to the foreign land...”

Prior to the interview, Sola had once affirmed, “Another thing is that my colleagues know what to give me. There was a script in which I was asked to play a Sugar Mummy and I asked how they want me to play the role, because I have my own way. But then they told me the little boy will be cuddling me. I rejected the script.”

Sola who played ‘Eniola Salami,’ the main character of Kemi Adetiba’s blockbuster movie, ‘King of Boys’, has also been speaking about her experience while on set. The movie star revealed that she was touched beyond words when she got the script because she knew it was a defining moment for her career.

The actress also said Kemi Adetiba had a unique way of bringing out the best in every actor. Sola further said because Kemi Adetiba believed in her abilities to take on the role of Eniola Salami in ‘King of Boys’ and deliver it to the delight of the audience, she was willing to give her all.

Though she had scored more credits featuring in a long list of Yoruba movies, including ‘Asewo to Re Mecca’, it however did not undermine her stance on her kind of roles. “It was a pacesetting movie but did you see us taking off clothes?

Even in the swimming pool scene, I had my swimsuit with a robe. I love Asewo to Re Mecca. I would do it over and over again.”

Sola’s popularity soared in 2001 when she starred in the TV drama series, Super Story titled ‘Oh Father Oh Daughter’, where she played the role of Toyin Tomato, which became her sobriquet because of her flawless interpretation of the role. “I thank God for Super Story. A lady walked up to me in Abuja and said ‘Thank you very much Toyin Tomato, you saved my marriage’. I said ‘what do you mean by that?’

“She said that her husband was like Suara (lead character) and there was someone out there like proper Toyin Tomato that was taking him away. She then called her husband to watch Super Story and he settled down, watched, listened and saw the whole thing and he came back home. I’m very happy that I could touch that woman’s life. I give kudos to Uncle Wale and I thank him so much for believing in me and bringing me on board for Super Story.

“I would say Super Story shot me to limelight because I had been working and no one had invited me out of Nigeria but with Super Story, I got an invitation to go to South Africa and Zimbabwe. It threw me everywhere; even Jamaicans saw me and said ‘Did you watch that show? This is Toyin Tomato’”.

She would thereafter, take on another lead role in Dangerous Twins, a 2004 top-chatting Nollywood drama produced

by Tade Ogidan. She also featured in Family on Fire also produced and directed by Tade Ogidan. In 2016, Sola starred in the Wedding Party movie which was another proof of her superiority in the Nollywood industry.

Over the years, she has scripted, co-scripted, directed and produced several Nigerian films. She scripted, produced and directed, Ohun Oko Somida, a 2010 Nigerian movie. She joined acting as a member of the Awada Kerikeri Group.

One thing about the thespian that not too many people know and not much of it is in the public glare is her family.

Sola is married to Dotun Sobowale and they are blessed with four children including a set of twins all grown up and educated in the United Kingdom. Dramatic, vibrant, captivating…she appears everything one could wish for in a movie character.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 8, 2018

11

SUPERSATURDAY

Race to Save Legs of Tinsel Star, Victor Olaotan Ferdinand Ekechukwu reports on the campaign to raise fund and save the legs of veteran thespian, Victor Olaotan, one of the stars ofTinsel, a long-running television drama series

T

he 66-year-old Victor Olaotan is best known for his role as Fred Ade-Williams in the long-running television drama series “Tinsel” where he warmed his way into the consciousness of television viewers. The veteran thespian has been completely off the scene for the past two years after a ghastly accident cost him the use of his legs.

According to a Gofundme page created by one Emmanuel Ajibade that went live on Sunday 2nd December, the actor is appealing for financial aid to seek medical treatment abroad. After the ghastly accident in 2016, the actor was placed in a medically induced coma as he was treated for months. He has been facing the possibility of his two legs being amputated to save his life and his family has been working to prevent this as best as they could in the last two years. Right now, Olaotan needs $50,000 to seek treatment abroad.

The message on his Gofundme page reads: Victor Toye Olaotan has brought Joy to teeming viewers on stage, television and the big screen through his solid work as a professional actor. For the last two years, he has been incapacitated following an accident. Victor is still fighting and he has been advised to seek medical attention outside our Nigerian shores; we implore your help in raising the funds.”

This is needed to enable him urgently undergo neurorehabilitation; a medical procedure designed to aid recovery from nervous system injury or disorders of the nervous system.

The good news is that billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola responded wholehearted by promising to take up the ailing actor’s medical bills. Announcing the cheery news via his Instagram post on Tuesday morning, veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo wrote: “So, a few days ago, I reached out to @femiotedola asking for help for my friend and brother Victor and just this morning, Femi calls to tell me that he would take care of all of Victor’s bills. He told me that he is already on it and that his people are already talking with Victor’s wife. Is God not awesome????? I can’t even contain my joy and gratitude.

Thank you Femi @femiotedola . . . .”

Born in Lagos in the early 50s, Olaotan studied Drama at the University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University and Rockets University in the United States of America.

In 1981, Olaotan joined a group of eight Nigerian performers who accompanied former Nigerian president Shehu Shagari to the United States to have a meeting with Ronald Regan. “I traveled abroad in 1978 and came back in 1980. They were selecting eight and good performing artistes in Nigeria and I happened to be one of them.

Others were Tunji Oyelana, Yemi Remi, Joe Adigwe, Demola Onibon-Okuta, Tayo Taiwo and others.

“We went to five states in United States and the president of the US at that time gave us a brooch each. It is called presidential medal. If you are giving that brooch, no matter what you do in America, you will be forgiving because it shows that you have been pardoned by the president.

I don’t know where I put mine till today. I lost it may be out of youthful exuberance. I went to three different universities in the United States to study acting.”

A well-groomed stage and screen actor, Uncle Victor, as younger colleagues call him, began his career as an actor at a very young age. An accomplished actor who cut his teeth on stage featuring in Ola Rotimi’s epic play, God’s Are Not to Blame. Olaotan, who learnt under the feet of theatre greats, like Professors Adedeji, Wole Soyinka, Jimi Solanke and Dapo Adelugba, had a stint as a footballer.

But as he was at that, the urge to act crept up. A chance meeting with ace television producer, Laolu Ogunniyi, and Olaotan was on the television screen in Ibadan.

He recalled: “I used to go Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), Ibadan to do some acting back then. It was on one of those days that I encountered a producer named Laolu Ogunniyi. He was in charge of a soap opera on television titled, Candle in the Wind. He later produced Wind Against My Soul and gave me a role to play in it.

“That is from where I started acting on screen and I was at that until I left the country for the US as soon as I lost my dad.”

Olaotan lived abroad for over 20 years and returned in 2002. He also had opportunities to take part in a couple of stage productions, including touring with the epic play, Sizwe Bansi is Dead and playing Othello in Shakespeare’s play of same title at the Shakespeare Festival.

Ordinarily, the person of Olaotan would want to be seen active and very well engaged in his acting profession, but for the unfortunate incident which has threatened to end his career. An actor’s actor of vast credit, Olaotan last appeared on the screen in the movies Lotanna and The Three Wise Men which were shot before the accident.

12

Î&#x20AC;Ë&#x153; ͺ͸͚Î&#x20AC; Ëž THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

SETTING AGENDA FOR OYETOLA IN OSUN Abiodun Komolafe writes that the new administration must work hard to leave its mark

I

n a solemn but highly impressive ceremony, Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola of the State of O sun bowed out as its chief executive while Mr. Gboyega Oyetola has been sworn into ofďŹ ce in his stead.

But, is Oyetolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration the beginning of a new era in Osun? To an extent, yes, it is! At least, the governor is taking over the reins of power, fresh, from his predecessor, after an eight-year stint. However, granted that the government is All Progressives Congress (APC)-led; and he campaigned on the slogan of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;continuityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, he must define his government according to his vision, leadership style, and based upon the underpinning philosophy of his world outview.

In his inaugural address, Oyetola harped on the need to sustain the gains of the previous administration. Among other promises, he vowed to convene an Economic Summit within the next 100 days to address the topical issues of job opportunities for the unemployed, wealth creation, and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the state, among other pressing issues.

These are noble intentions. All the same, the governor needs to prioritize a visit to all the local government and local council development areas in the state to ask the people for their needs from the state government. Without doubt, this is an indirect kind of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Thank youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tour to the electorate for voting him as their new governor.

Sentiments apart, the welfare of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s civil servants and pensioners should be a matter of priority for the new administration. Already, the idea of using a disproportionate percentage of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resources on salaries is anomalous. One only hopes that Osun workers would be more dedicated to duty, shun truancy, improve productivity and stop fighting useless battles.

Next is the provision of potable water through micro and macro water schemes to guide against epidemics and water-borne diseases. This is where a timely completion of Ilesa Water Scheme and related projects across the state becomes imperative. If this is achieved, the people will spend their hard-earned resources on other necessities of life; and they will be happy!

Osun as an agrarian state needs several farm settlements to advance its residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; farm produce, provide job opportunities for many youths and encourage rural development. Incidentally, these are areas where the state is bound to have a comparative advantage.

Tourism sector has become a kind of money-spinning venture globally. A discreet investigation into the sector by yours sincerely revealed the existence of more than 80 centres of tourist attraction in the state and an addition of more than 400 hotels between 2011 and 2018. The development or improvement of the various tourism sites in the state such as Erin-Ijesa and Olumirin Waterfalls will fetch the state government huge resources, help reduce unemployment and alleviate poverty. Thankfully, too, Osun Osogbo Scared Grove is not only seen as a symbol of identity for all Yoruba people, the grove, declared a National Monument in 1965, has, as

THERE IS THE NEED FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO EMBARK ON MASSIVE YOUTH EMPOWERMENT, AND VOCATIONAL SKILLS ACQUISITION PROGRAMMES

far back as 2005, been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Government can also go a step further by establishing craft villages in each of the three senatorial districts to promote indigenous, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Made-in-Osunâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; products.

Closely related to the aforesaid is the need for the government to embark on massive youth empowerment, and vocational skills acquisition programmes. It is not only that countless societies have used this approach to address, or curb, unemployment crisis, it is indeed, the way of the future!

Opening-up the rural areas through the construction of rural roads to link the major roads is also as important as provision of rural electrification services to areas where such is needed. So, this government must strive to support Osun Rural Access and Mobility Project (Osun RAMP) to deliver on its core mandate.

Through this, rural communities will be able to transport their produce and other goods to the city, thus, make good money and become less-dependent on government. Besides, the administration must encourage prompt payment of taxes, particularly, more from the informal sector to upgrade the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s IGR. Health Care Delivery System across the state must also be improved upon with adequate drugs and medics to enhance the medical welfare of the citizenry.

One major challenge of our Nigerianness is the collapse of reward system. Since absence of sanctions is a recipe for impunity, appropriate mechanisms for feedback and reward and sanctions must also be reactivated in the state. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Wait for your timeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and other refrains that fail to take into cognizance the changing dynamics in politics, wherever they exist, must be investigated with a view to dealing them the right blow. After all, turning gold to god or thinking that money is everything has never been seen to augur well for participatory democracy.

Imperium est continue remittatur! It therefore behooves the governor to aspire to complete the projects initiated by his predecessors even as he is statutorily bound to initiate fresh people-oriented ones that will be beneficial to the generality of the people.

I have no doubt in my mind that Oyetola is an administrator of note. Ahead of February 2019, no stone must be left unturned, nor efforts spared, towards ensuring that all intra-party conflicts are amicably resolved. Over the years, Osun has shown to set the stage for the progressivesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; electoral victory in Nigeria and Oyetolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tenure cannot be an exception. Well, to say that there are no challenges ahead is to be unfair to democracy and good governance.

For instance, why did the ruling party almost lose the plate to the opposition in the succession battle? Was it a case of the electorate not appreciating the direction of development as canvassed by the-then outgoing administration or that of the government not doing enough to blow its trumpet to a fatigued electorate which, in any case, was not immune from new tunes? In my considered opinion, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why the call for the evolvement of a new political order in the state cannot, at a time like this, be overemphasized.

Komolafe wrote from Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State

BEFORE SUPER FALCONS BECOME A SPENT FORCE There is an urgent need to overhaul the National Women Football League, argues Tayo Ogunbiyi

A

fter playing out a pulsating 120 minutes goalless draw against the Bayana Bayana of South Africa, Nigerian senior female soccer team, the Super Falcons, successfully defended the title they won in Cameroon, in 2016, at the Ohene Djan Stadium in Accra, Ghana 4-3 on penalties.

The fact that this is the second time the South Africans would be losing out in the ďŹ nal to Nigeria made this particular defeat a rather painful one for the girls from the Rainbow nation and their fans.

Asisat Oshoala had a golden opportunity to put the Falcons ahead in the 74th minute when Woman of the Matchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ordega was fouled by the South African goalkeeper, Kaylin Swart.

The Nigerian winger, however, wasted it to the disappointment of numerous Nigerian fans.

The miss, as painful as it was, never really mattered eventually as the Super Falcons eventually edged the illustrious Bayana Bayana team in a nervy penalty shootout. With this latest victory, the Super Falcons have won the coveted Africa Women Nations Cup (AWCON) title for the 12th time, thus becoming the most successful women soccer team on the continent.

It is, however, important to state that the Super Falcons were not really at the best of form throughout the competition. Apart from the match against the whipping ladies of the tournament, Equatorial Guinea, which they trounced by 6-0, the Super Falcons were not really convincing all through the tournament.

The team, which had initially lost its opening match 1-0 to the Bayana Bayana, could only manage to beat the Cameroonians via penalty kicks during the semi final.

Considering the fact that the Bayana Bayana

successfully held the Falcons for 120 minutes at the final, it could be rightly concluded that the wide gap between them and the rest of Africa is now quite smaller. With their sterling and gallant performances at the recently concluded AWCON in Ghana, it is quite apparent that other African countries such as South Africa, Cameroun, Mali, Ghana and a host of others are, no doubt, waiting in the wing to end the Falconsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; continuous dominance in Africa.

In order to ensure that the Falcons continue to remain the continentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s women soccer super power, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and other stakeholders need to quickly disregard the current victory and plan ahead for the World championship as well as the next edition of AWCON in Congo. In achieving constant victory in football or any other sporting event for that matter, effective and adequate preparation is quite vital.

While it is true that the Super Falcons are champions of Africa yet again, the last tournament must serve as a warning sign that they are no longer as invincible as they used to be in the continent. The usual Nigerian lackadaisical attitude towards preparation for major sporting tournaments was a key factor in the Falcons not too compelling display in Ghana. Prior to the competition, the team was not given a befitting preparation required for such a highly competitive tournament.

Equally important is the fact that a lot still needs to be done towards improving Women Football in the country. In this regards, there is an urgent need to overhaul the National Women Football League in the country. It is only in doing this that we can be assured of regular discovery of budding female soccer

talents across the country. Women soccer talents, no doubt, abound in the country, but there must be a strategic and holistic plan by the appropriate authorities to fully take advantage of this.

It is, thus, imperative that we make renewed efforts to invest in womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s football, especially at the grassroots. All over the world, the bulk of those who take to sports are discovered at the grassroots where sports and entertainments are seen as possible way of escape from the ravaging grip of poverty. Ajegunle, a prominent Lagos masses suburb, is renowned to be a famous breeding ground of potential athletes in the country. A reasonable number of Nigerians most successful sporting stars were discovered in Ajegunle. You can imagine how many Ajegunles exist across the country and how many budding sporting talents in such places are wasting away as a result of lack of exposure.

It is in view of this that the Lagos State government is currently working hard to revive sports at the grassroots across the state. Having observed the lacuna in grassroots sport development, Lagos State Sports Commission has rolled out plans with special focus on school sports as the driver covering both the primary and secondary schools. Parts of the visions is to fill the gap, drawing from the participation of Lagos active youths and developing a structured and well-articulated training contents for different sports in the state.

A complete overhauling of all sporting facilities in the country is also needed. Since it seems those saddled with overseeing the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prime sporting facilities are either overwhelmed with the enormity of the responsibility or lack the needed fund, government can resort to

the PPP model. Similarly, the private sector needs to take more active part in the project to restore the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lost glory in sports. All over the world, the initiatives and funds that drive sports come from the private sector. With the needed private sector drive, moribund school sports competitions across the country could be resuscitated.

Perhaps, more importantly, the NFF, in particular, needs to come up with creative strategies that would ensure that all the Falcons are as equally effectively taken care of as the Super Eagles. The pedigree of the Super Falcons as a winning brand should be effectively harnessed to rake up good sponsorship deals for the team. There are so many local and international corporate organisations, especially with gender-related products and services that would be willing to leverage on the Falcons success. All the NFF needs to do is to be better organized, transparent and pro-active. Going cup in hands, all the time, to beg for fund each time our national teams are on assignment is, to say the least, unprofessional and demeaning.

The NFF must stop it!

On a final note, the federal government, corporate bodies and other well-meaning individuals should generously appreciate the Super Falcons for their current success. It is heartwarming to note that African number one billionaire, Alhaji Aliko Dangote and a few others have already donated about N75 million to the victorious Falcons. Others need to join the train. The ladies have done well for our nation.

Appreciating them is the least we could do.

God bless Nigeria!

Ogunbiyi is of the Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos

13

Î&#x20AC;Ë&#x153; ͺ͸͚Î&#x20AC; Ëž THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

All hail the Falconsâ&#x20AC;Ś

ICPC and Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Digital Switch Over

O

n 29 October 2018, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) hosted a stakeholders meeting at the BON Hotel in Asokoro, Abuja.

The stakeholders in attendance at the meeting included NBC, Digiteam, broadcast signal distributors, call center operators, middleware providers, set top box manufacturers and satellite service providers.

At that meeting the stakeholders agreed that the worst was over. A proposed timetable for the phased and timed switch over of the entire nation was circulated to members for their input and agreement before formal presentation to and discussion with the content owners particularly those under the aegis of The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) chaired by John Momoh, the reputable Chairman of Channels TV. The stakeholders were basically all agreed that substantial progress had been made and that the trial period was over.

This consensus was considered a huge achievement given that previous discussions were hardly unanimous. It was safe to assume that the DSO was set to start coasting.

But sometime in the middle of November 2018 the ICPC through its spokesperson released a press statement attempting to indict NBC in the DSO process.

The ICPC press release raises several issues and must be viewed in the context of the following questions: Why would ICPC, a law enforcement agency attempt to bring to disrepute, without cogent reason, a programme that is a flagship of the federal government of Nigeria? Is it a coincidence that ICPC is intervening just when the stakeholders have charted a way out? What is the link between the ICPC press release and the recent return of N2billion paid by GOtv into NBC account?

That ICPC is indeed a law enforcement agency empowered by its enabling law to investigate and prosecute is not in doubt. Assuming indeed that ICPC has carried out an investigation in this matter and considering the powers vested in it under the laws, what should be the result of such investigation? Depending on the considered opinion of its legal department the result would be to or not to prosecute the subject of the investigation. In reaching a decision the legal department will differentiate between fact and fiction and avoid putting the ICPC in the possible embarrassment that a failed prosecution would engender.

Like I alluded to in my introduction it is clear that the stakeholders had charted a way out of the imbroglio that had previously bedevilled the programme.

Who therefore is interested in seeing that the DSO is not successful? In other words who are those that feel they will lose out if the DSO programme succeeds or who are those that feel excluded from the DSO programme?

Very clearly and as several writers have con-

cluded certain foreign-owned entities feel very threatened by the success of the DSO programme of the federal government and are bent on truncating the programme.

In the new digital ecosystem it is clear that operators of DTT Pay TV in Nigeria cannot (just like non pay DTT operators) self-carry their digital signals. These operators are basically Startimes and GOTV who are both foreign -owned subsidiaries operating in Nigeria. They have displayed, in every possible way, their vehement opposition to the federal government policy on the DSO. Some weeks ago it was reported that GOTV paid the sum of N2b to NBC for the renewal of the self-carry DTT Pay TV license. In the same report NBC is said to have rejected and returned the N2b.

The NBC rejection of the N2b and the press release by ICPC are already being linked. Are some strong people in ICPC being used to further the interest of foreign companies? Where lies the patriotic spirit of these ICPC staff?

This is an allegation that deserves further investigation. It is strange that a law enforcement agency will issue a press release on an inconclusive investigation and a matter where even the NBC spokesperson has conclusively stated the ignorance of NBC to its DG being a subject of an ICPC investigation. It is time the ICPC filed charges in court.

Olabisi Animashaun, Georgia State University, Atlanta GA 30302

Buhari, Ministers and the Next Level

I

f Buhari will reshufďŹ&#x201A;e his cabinet, these ministers shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Next Levelâ&#x20AC;? by Fredrick Nwabufo Sources at the presidential whispered to me that President Muhammadu Buhari is considering â&#x20AC;&#x153;reshufflingâ&#x20AC;? his cabinet.

Since 2015, President Buhari has made no changes to his team. And despite demands for a rejigging of his players; he has kept them, even while some of them are conceding own goals like Manchester United.

However, it is refreshing to hear that the president is considering changing the line-up of his players. When this will happen is still a subject of speculation.

But if he decides to take the action, some ministers ought not to follow him to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Next Levelâ&#x20AC;?.

Top on my list of ministers, who should exit the federal executive council is Mohammad Bello, Minister of the Federal capital Territory (FCT). I have lived in Abuja for years; I have never seen the city so dirty, ramshackle and

T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR CHIKA AMANZE-NWACHUKU MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATIONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE

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

unsafe before as it is now.

Abuja is now a safe haven for criminals. Car snatching, armed robbery, â&#x20AC;&#x153;one-chance operationsâ&#x20AC;?, and other criminality have become very common.

The parlous state of insecurity is compounded by non-functional streetlights.

At night, darkness envelops the city like a cumulus, giving cover to criminals to operate unchecked.

Also, the roads in the city have never been this deplorable. Pot-holes sprawl out on the roads and refuse litter the streets.

Really, I doubt if any road project has been completed by the FCT administration under Bello. For example, the Karshi-Apo road, which the minister promised would be completed this month, is barely done. As you read these words, nothing is cracking up on that road. The pain of residents, who endure traffic gridlock on the NyanyaKeffi road every day, is unimaginable.

As it is, there is only one entry into and exit out of the Abuja suburb.

Another minister, who should not go to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Next Levelâ&#x20AC;?, with Buhari is Adebayo Shittu, Minister of Communications. Shittu has been in the news more for controversy than for performance.

Recently, he admitted to have skipped participating in the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme after he finished law school in 1979.

He said he was elected a member of the Oyo State House of Assembly after law school, so he skipped the NYSC because being a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Honourable memberâ&#x20AC;? is already service to father land.

Imagine?

Meanwhile, he heads a ministry where an â&#x20AC;&#x153;ordinary Nigerianâ&#x20AC;? cannot get a job if he does not have an NYSC discharge or exemption certificate.

And on performance, Shittu cannot be argued for. Omobola Johnson, the immediate past minister of communications, left a record he appears too feeble to match. If President Buhari will take these men to his Next Level; we already know what that would be like.

Fredrick Nwabufo,fredricknwabufo@ yahoo.com

14

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž Î&#x20AC;Ë&#x153; ͺ͸͚Î&#x20AC;

NEWS

In Brief 500 Policemen Deployed to Lagos Island

TheLagosStatePoliceCommandhasdeployedadditional500policemento various routes on the Lagos Island with special focus on Apogbon,TBS, Eko Hotels and environs as efforts to boost the number of personnel already at variouspointsinthearea.  Thedeploymentwasnecessitatedfollowingevents comingupontheIslandwhichinclude:TheExperience,AdekunleGoldConcert, theDavidoConcert,RCCGHolyGhostCongressatRedeemCampandShiloh attheWinnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Chapel.  Accordingtothepolicespokesman,CSPChikeOti,the events would lead to surge in vehicular and human traffic; thereby bringing additionalpressuretothealreadystrainedtrafficsituationinthecommercial cityresultingingridlock.  â&#x20AC;&#x153;Toamelioratetheforeseensituation,thestateCommissionerofPolice,EdgalImohimidirectedthatthe500deployedpolicemen be posted to Lagos Island to boost the number of men already on ground to prevent crimeand ensuresmoothflow of traffic.â&#x20AC;?Â

193 Stranded Nigerians Return from LibyaÂ

MY CONDOLENCES...

L-R: Wife of the late founder of Oodua Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Congress, Mrs. Iyabo Fasehun and Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Lagos State during a condolence visit to the home of the Fasehuns ...yesterday

Boko Haram Attacks Three Borno Settlements in 24 Hours, Destroys UNICEF Clinic in Rann Michael Olugbode Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x;Ă&#x2018;Ă&#x;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;

Terrorist group, Boko Haram yesterday attacked three Borno settlements and burnt down the UNICEF clinic in Rann, Kala Balge Local Government Area of the state.

The UNICEF funded clinic, the only healthcare centre in the town had at different times been attacked by the insurgents.

The terrorist group had on Thursday, attacked Bama and Rann, before extending their onslaughts to Jakana on the Maiduguri- Damaturu highway on Friday evening.

According to security sources, dozens of gunmen suspected to be members of the Boko Haram insurgents made an attempt to infiltrate Bama Town on Thursday evening.

The security source, who asked not to named, told THISDAY on phone that â&#x20AC;&#x153;the insurgents wanted to

invade the town to cause havoc, but unfortunately for them, they were met by battle ready soldiers who gave them a run for their money.â&#x20AC;?

A resident of the town, Abba Modu, said that throughout the night no one could sleep in the town as the soldiers engaged the insurgents in gun duel.

A military source also told our correspondent that the Nigerian military was able to repel the insurgents after a fierce gun battle on Thursday.

According to another resident of the town, Yabawa Aji, who spoke in a telephone chat with our correspondent, some of the fleeing residents were among those caught in the crossfire.

He however could not ascertain the casualty figures, as according to him, many fled into the bush for safety.

In a statement confirming

Panic as Fire Engulfs Filling Station at Lagos Airport Chinedu Eze

The fire incident which later spread into the filling station at about 2:00 Major tragedy was averted p.m. caused panic because behind the yesterday when a filling Station station is aviation oil depot owned managed by Forte Oil inside by Forte Oil and two more stations the Murtala Muhammed Airport opposite Bristow Helicopters and premises was yesterday burnt by fire. Concord terminal on the GAT road, Petrified travellers and other airport which exits into Agege Motor Road. users jumped out from facilities and Also very close to the filling station other areas near the filling station, that burnt were offices of the Federal located less than 200 metres to the Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) General Aviation Terminal (GAT) of accounts section made largely of the airport. wooden prefabrication, few metres As the smoke billowed into the from the head office of the Nigerian sky and realising that it was a filling Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). station that was burning, motorists While the panic lasted, motorists coming from Ikeja stopped suddenly from Ikeja could not reverse out and many wanted to go back in an of  path of the fire, forcing many area already in the throes of heavy to  brace it and drove past the filling traffic snarl, thereby exacerbating station, while others left their cars the situation. and ran for their lives on foot.

The struggle to escape gave rise to Within five minutes the fire started, gridlock and bedlam, as people ran the two roundabouts at the entry helter-skelter when the fire seemingly and exit of the domestic terminal, raged beyond control. known as MMA2 were blocked It was not clear what led to the by fear-stricken motorists who fire outbreak but THISDAY gathered became confused as thick smoke that the fire might have started inside from the fire rose into the sky a fuel tanker parked very close to and painted the white-blue clouds the filling station. black.

the attack on Rann, the Chief of Communication at UNICEF, Eliana Drakopoulus, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Late last night, there was fighting in Rann and several structures were burned, including a UNICEF-supported clinic.â&#x20AC;?

She said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;All UNICEF partner staff are safe. Some have been moved temporarily to Maiduguri, while we assess the security situation. We are doing our best to continue providing lifesaving services - especially WASH, health and nutrition - despite the volatile security situation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The attack is the second on Rann this year in which UNICEF-supported staff were affected. On March 1, 2018, an armed attack in Rann resulted in the death of three humanitarian workers and the abduction of three others. Two of the deceased worked with IOM, while Dr.

Onyedikachi Izuogu worked with UNICEF. One of the three abducted aid workers, Nurse Alice Loksha, is still being held. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We call on all parties to the hostilities to ensure safety for humanitarian workers and civilians.

Attacks such as these could lead to the withdrawing of humanitarian workers, which could have dire consequences for civilians in the area in desperate need of humanitarian assistance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are currently 76,389 people in Rann, most of whom are being supported with essential humanitarian aid,â&#x20AC;? she said.

The insurgents attack on Jakana, a distance of 23 kilometres from Maiduguri, the birthplace of Boko Haram resulted in temporary suspension of movement on the MaiduguriDamaturu highway.

Lagos CJ Frees 16 Prison Inmates, Says Restorative Justice Centres Take off January AkinwaleAkintunde

Seven inmates from the Ikoyi Prisons in Lagos yesterday, breathed the air of freedom when they were granted amnesty by the Lagos State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Opeyemi Oke, bringing the number freed from prisons in Lagos to 16.

The Chief Judge said the gesture was aimed at decongesting the prisons and ensuring that deserving inmates breathed a fresh air of freedom.

In exercise of her prerogative of mercy, she freed the inmates pursuant to the provisions of Section 1(1) of the Criminal Justice Release from Custody Special Provision Act CAP C40, 2007, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.

Justice Oke commenced the amnesty exercise on Thursday with a visit to Kirikiri maximum, medium and female prisons. She had released nine inmates, four from medium and five from maximum prisons in Kirikiri on Thursday.

The freed inmates were said to have stayed longer in custody than

the number of years they would have spent if sentenced by the court for offences charged.

Continuing with the exercise yesterday, at the Ikoyi Prison, the Chief Judge explained that those granted amnesty were qualified for release after a thorough review of their case files.

She however admonished the released inmates to, henceforth, be of good behaviour and stay away from crime. She also advised them to desist from any act that would bring them back to prison.

As part of measures to further decongest the prisons, Justice Oke said the Restorative Justice Centres set up by her administration would take off January next year.

She said Lagos blazed the trail in setting up the centres as part of efforts to decongest the prisons and as â&#x20AC;&#x153;mandated by President Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari and the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen.â&#x20AC;?

TheNationalEmergencyManagementAgency(NEMA)hasreceived193stranded NigerianstheInternationalOrganisationforMigration(IOM)evacuatedfrom LibyabacktoNigeria.  TheActingZonalCoordinatorofNEMA,Mr.SegunAfolayan urged Nigerians to desist from stigmatising young Nigerians trying to seek so-called better opportunities outside the shores of the country.  Afolayan disclosedthattheAssistedVoluntaryReturneesarrived aboardofChartered Tunisiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;NouvelairairlinewithregistrationnumberTS-INQandflightnumber UZ 189 at 8:32p.m. on Thursday.  A breakdown of the returnees include: 96 females with 81 adult, one child and 14 infants while there are 97 males with 87 adults five children and five infants. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In all, we have 168 adults, six children and 19 infants,â&#x20AC;? Afolayan further pointed out that it was right for everyone to live free and comfortable lives but the process or the means of seeking the fulfillment of therightsaretheonesincontention. Â

 Student Killed in Juju Contest

A16-year-oldsecondary schoolstudentinEkitiState,FavourMathew diedon Thursdayevening after beinghacked byanotherstudent,KehindeTimilehinwithin theschoolpremises.Favour,whowasinSeniorSecondary2ofAdoGrammar Schoolbeforehisuntimelydeathwassaidtohavebeeninjujucontestwiththe suspectonwhoactuallyhadsuperiorpower duringwhichhewashacked inthe chestandlaterdiedattheEkitiStateUniversityTeachingHospital(EKSUTH), AdoEkiti.SeveralsourcesconfirmedtojournalistsonFridayattheschoolthat Favour, who was from Ebira extraction of Kogi State,  actually brought the weapons but was killed after the axe and knife wrapped with white and red scarfcouldnotpiercethesuspect whooverpoweredhimandstabbedhimin selfdefence.Theschoolhasnowbeentakenoverbypolicewiththemaingate locked  forfearofallegedreprisalattack whichemanatedfromthreatissued bythedeceasedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sfamilythattheywouldinvadetheschool inprotestonFriday.

8 Die in Niger Communal Fight

No fewer than eight people have been confirmed killed in a communal clash between the Gaba and Anfani communities in the Lavun Local Government AreaofNigerState.TheincidentwhichoccurredonThursdayaccordingtoa reportfromtheareasawthebeheadingofsomeofthevictims.Oneofthose killed according an eyewitness also had his two feet cut off. It was gathered that the dispute between the communities was over a parcel of land which theGabacommunityallegedlygavetotheirAnfanineighboursover50years ago.ABidahighcourtwassaidtohaveruledinfavouroftheGabacommunity lastweek directingtheAnfanicommunitytovacatetheland.Itwaslearntthat to enforce the judgement of the court the Gaba community sent 11 men to the disputed land to carry out its survey. One of the 11 people was a surveyor fromthestateministryofworks.Accordingtoaneyewitness,the Gabamen werereportedlywaylaidbytheirAnfanipeopleâ&#x20AC;&#x153;slaughteringthemlikegoatsâ&#x20AC;?.

Four Abducted Victims Freed

ThefourremainingstaffofOsunStateCollegeofTechnology,OSCOTECH,Esa-oke, whowereabductedonTuesdayatEti-onialongIjebu-jesharoad,havebeenreleased Fridaymorning.ThePolicePublicRelationsOfficerinthestate,SPFolashadeOdoro confirmedthistonewsmeninOsogbo,theOsunStatecapital.Shesaideffortswere inplacetoapprehendthesuspectedherdsmen,whowereallegedtohavebeen responsibleforthecrime.â&#x20AC;&#x153;Remainingvictimshavebeenreleasedandreunitedwith theirfamilies,effortsarebeingintensifiedtogetthehoodlumsapprehended,â&#x20AC;?the PPROsaid.Itwouldberecalledthatwhilefivestaffoftheinstitutionandtwostudents wereabductedonTuesdayeveningafterthecloseofwork,anon-academicstaff inthedepartmentofStaffRegistry,Mr.OlaniyiEmmanuel,wasshotdeadwhile tryingtoescapefromthekidnappers .

Buhari Congratulates Bashir Dalhatu

PresidentMuhammaduBuharihascongratulatedtheformerMinisterofMines andPower,AlhajiBashirDalhatu,onhisappointmentasthe WazirinDutse inJigawa State. Thepresident,inagoodwillmessagesignedbyhisSeniorSpecialAssistant onMediaandPublicity,Mr.GarbaShehu,Friday,describedDalhatuasâ&#x20AC;&#x153;abrilliant andhard-workinglawyerwhoisdeservingofthistitle.â&#x20AC;?AccordingtothePresident, theformerNigeriaBarAssociationNationalPresidentâ&#x20AC;&#x153;didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;tattainthisheightby accident,hedidsoonaccountofhishardworkandpassionforthedevelopmentof JigawaStateanditspeople.â&#x20AC;?PresidentBuharisaidthatDalhatuâ&#x20AC;&#x153;hasconsistently identifiedhimselfwiththedevelopmentagendaofthepeopleofJigawaStateat alllevels,â&#x20AC;?addingthathisnewtraditionaltitleâ&#x20AC;&#x153;isarecognitionofhiscommitment tothewelfareofhispeople.â&#x20AC;?

Firm Launches Reality Show

InoGlobalConceptsLimitedissettolunchitssuperTVrealityshowâ&#x20AC;&#x153;DEKONECTA SHOWâ&#x20AC;?whichisafamilyTVrealityshowthattakesAfricanyouthsoffthestreet, andconnectsthemtotheirrolemodelsforbettermentorshipandempowering more than a 100 with #3,000,000 each in a winner weekly schedule scheme. In additionto its quest of raisingyoungAfricanmillionaires,theshow holds lots of life reforming contents embellished in each stage of the edition. DE KONECTA SHOWwill be aired on DSTVand GOTV, Channel - African Magic Family and is driventochangethemindsetofyouthsfromsocialillswhileprovidingthemwith outstandingrolemodelstolookuptoinorderforthemtoaspiretobeliketheirchoice rolemodels. ParticipantswillbedrawnfromdifferentregionswithinNigeriaofage group18yearsto35yearswillregisteronlineforfreeandsolicitforvotestoenable themstandthechancetoenlistedamongtheweeklyfiveluckyKONECTMATES thatwouldbeinthehouse.

THISDAYt SATURDAY DECEMBER 8, 2018

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THISDAYt 4"563%": %&$&.#&3 đ ċĉĊđ

Plus

Harrysong

I Used to Be a Fisherman, But Music Got the Better Part of Meâ&#x20AC;¦ Here I am Today

pg. 20

GLOBAL SOCCER FAIRGROUND AUTO SHOWBIZFLAIR

Okezie Ikpeazu My Dad Once Flogged Me Till I Fainted

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

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 8, 2018

18

PLUS

My Dad Once Flogged Me Till I Fainted Looking very smart in his made - in - Aba attire, he beamed with smiles and off handedly responded to questions with the smoothness of an academic, though with humility that radiated from inside of him. The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, shares the story of his life with Charles Ajunwa and Ahamefula Ogbu, recalling his growing up, how his parents imbibed in him the virtues of integrity, honesty and hard work, among others

W

hat kind of upbringing did you have?

If I introduce my parents to you, you won’t know, my father was a primary school teacher and my mother was a nurse and they had only three children. I happened to be the very first; so for them, they were concerned about an upright person, a trustworthy son, somebody that his friends can rely on and somebody the public can trust, somebody who should have the discipline of character and somebody who should not be an abrasive person, capable of relating with people in such a way that you add value and blessing. Then, also somebody who is capable of living a life of sacrifice, living for others much more than just being self-centred. Most importantly, a lover of God and a strong believer in the fact that God is the author and finisher of our faith.

My mother for example, all along worked for mission hospitals even when she had the opportunity and chance in the regular government hospitals that would have earned her pensions after retirement. During the civil war, she chose to work with Biafran soldiers. After the war, she also went to work for Christian hospitals where she rose to become the matron of the hospital and was managing the under-five clinics. All her life, she chose to work for people; that gives you the typical example of the family I come from. So I think these are the values my parents imbibed in us and they have continued to lead me as very important signposts along the way.

Gov. Ikpeazu

Growing up, who exerted the most impact on you among your parents and what were those?

If you had asked me this question as a teenager, I would have said my mother but as I began to grow into adulthood, I started to appreciate my father the more.

Unfortunately, he died at 62, so recognition, appreciation and influence over me became much more, far more profound as the days go by and his lessons in life are timeless; standing for those things which are right, helping me to take decisions on time; I don’t have problems choosing between what is right and wrong, I don’t have any problem deciding what is right and then teaching me not to be influenced by my friends and teaching me to be a leader in the pack in terms of character, making sure there was no iota of pride in me, telling me that I am to lead through service and should be able to make my mark. As a teacher, my father would insist that you must excel because if you go to someone else class and he is

the headmaster, how come you would not be among the first three or first as the case may be. But my Mum taught me the virtue of patience and listening intently before you speak. At times, I do not know whether it is a virtue or quality, at times I stand absorbing everything everybody will say and just walk away and then I recall once in school, it was a Chemistry class and I had a friend of mine who thought he was the best and leader of the pack in Organic Chemistry.

So, course assessments were conducted and scripts distributed; we use to have three course assessments and each used to have 10 per cent before the exam, I had nine and a half and the guy had nine and he was buying coke for everybody. I just kept quiet while he was busy celebrating as if he was leading the class as at that time. I learnt from my Mum that you can still be ahead and level-headed. I thank God that she was alive when I became Governor and she called me by the side and said that she was not happy or excited that I was governor that she was excited that I was going to make a difference and that if I knew that I wasn’t going to make a difference that it was going to take away the shine off whatever I called an accomplishment, that she was only excited because she knew I was going to make an impact. Those were some of the words she spoke the few times I had time with her before she departed that has registered in my mind; that she wasn’t excited because I was governor but because she knew that her son was going to make an impact. These are things I can’t forget.

Were you a village or city boy growing up?

I grew up in the village. I am essentially a rural person, I can crop cassava from stem till harvest. Each time in the farm, they will give me a portion as equal to what they will give my younger sister and other women so I farm it; I am essentially a rural person but the most important thing is that I later learnt when I was a university lecturer that what I enjoyed most was to mentor people. In fact, it is part of what drives me as a person and that is why I have it as a quality not to tell a lie to people but most importantly, to those that are younger than me because they look forward to me and when they look into my eyes and I say this is yam, please let it be yam. God gave me the grace to say sorry to anybody, it doesn’t matter your age in any relationship I have with you. If my driver catches me on any wrong side of fact, I will say sorry, if my house help does the same thing, I will say sorry; nothing will make me go away without doing that. The first reason is that I strongly believe that every human being is a spirit and that the power beyond that

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Ikpeazu family

I Was in My Second Year in University When I Proposed to My Wife, 10 Years After, I Fulfilled the Promise spirit is beyond the circumstance where that circumstance has placed that person, it can change tomorrow, anybody can go down.

After all, it is God that elevates people and God puts people down and nobody has God’s power, so whenever I do something wrong I will say sorry and I will do it from my heart; I don’t have any airs around me and if you want to mentor people, you must be willing to give service, you must lead, if you can’t hold the hands of those you are leading, then you can’t do social mobilisation that is required and that is the reason why we have huge gaps in leadership all across our country and in Africa. African leaders don’t spend time doing social mobilisation.

You grew up in the village, where did you acquire sophistication and simplicity?

I think going to school should give everyone one advantage, it is to educate your mind, it is not to come with a paper, it is to educate your mind for you to develop capacity to do indepth analysis quickly and respond adequately but if your analysis is wrong, then you can’t get your options right. I dare say I went to school thoroughly in Nigeria. I went through the rigours of a first degree, did a Masters by thesis and course work, did a PhD again by thesis and course work, so we were one of the few people in Calabar in those days that did 600 level courses. Actually, I was qualified for double masters but I decided to ignore the other one. All these put me through very serious mind training and it makes me sufficiently dynamic, gives me an air of confidence that is within me. More often than not, people tend to underrate me.

Were you a stubborn or compliant child?

I wasn’t a very compliant child because my area is Biochemistry so I was very curious as a person. I could get a lizard and dissect it even from my fourth birthday and I can get so busy doing it that I won’t want anybody to distract me. My father was a perfectionist, so I wasn’t a deviant but I wasn’t a very regular docile child. My father was a perfectionist who insists you draw a straight line without ruler and I will argue that daddy why after they have discovered ruler you are still making me draw a line without ruler but I have since discovered that whether in an interview or you want to drop a written note, you find yourself drawing a line without ruler. My father would say you must do homework before you play soccer but when I look at the home work and I know I have a good grip of it, I can decide to go and play soccer first and of course in return you will receive serious canning. With my father, if you commit an offence three times a day, he will cane you three times. I am sure wherever he is, if you ask him about me, he would be proud that his style turned me out the way I am.

What indelible disciplinary action did your dad take out on you that you will

not forget in a hurry?

I remember very well when he was heading a school in Umuogele in Iheoji, Aba South and his friend came to see him and he served him Coke and Fanta; so he sent me to his office, which was opposite where we were living but he forgot to give me the key. So when I got to his office the door was locked and his visitors were waiting and I did a 100-meter dash to fetch the opener. I climbed into the office, I saw the opener on his desk, picked the opener but as I was about to leave, I saw my friend’s ball which he had seized so I brought out the ball also. When I returned home and told my father that I couldn’t find the key but I managed to find my way into the office and brought the opener, I gave him the opener and he was very happy of course.

Immediately I gave him the opener I went out to play the football with my friend.

When the visitors had gone, he came to the balcony and saw us playing. He asked me to come back and I did, he asked me where I got the ball from and I told him I saw it in his office. I lost count of the number of lashes he gave me. He flogged me 48 or more. At 48, I lost count, maybe I fainted or something. My grandmother begged and begged and begged, he wouldn’t let go.

She packed her things and left that night.

Nobody could pacify my father, I couldn’t pinpoint my offence, was it that I climbed into his office or was it just the ball I took?

Meanwhile, I was seeing myself as a hero, who had solved a major problem in the family. I can never forget that day.

How did you meet your wife?

It was in my second year in the university and it was in a house party. She was in the teacher training college and her best friend at that time was a cousin of mine, so I didn’t know they invited her but before that time, our parents were very good friends; they were at the Missionary hospital together, her parents were nurses.

I think at a point, my mother was living with her mother at Ife because my mother trained as a nurse at Ife. As a student nurse, she was living with them. That day, I saw her at the ballroom party and then as a second year student, I told her I wanted to marry her. I don’t know the kind of marriage a second year student would know at that time but 10 years or so after, I made that promise, I fulfilled it.

You must have been having your fair deal of ladies before seeing her, what made you stick to her?

The first thing is that I saw in her someone who was capable of tolerating me because I am somebody that once I apply my mind to an assignment, I want to be left alone to deal with it. I don’t like distractions and I don’t like to be disturbed. I am a very patient man but my wife is infinitely patient. Anybody who is more patient than me must be something else. I also saw that she was capable of raising my children. I could trust her with my children because I also knew that there would be things that would take me away from the home

very often and till now she hasn’t failed or disappointed me. Finally, I needed someone who could do certain things because in our house we talk about everything, my mother shared her view about the kind of wives she would want me and my younger brother to bring to the house. The first was that our family was a small one, just three people; we need builders, lovers, people who will tolerate each other, tolerate me and my siblings. You can’t take me and leave my siblings.

Then somebody who would appreciate our parents for raising us and most importantly, somebody who is not coming with an air because at that time, both our parents belong to the middle class, but my parents in-law were a little bit stronger because as at that time, if you graduate with a degree, my parents in-law will buy a brand new car for their son that graduated but my parents couldn’t have given you the gift of a car or even if they could, I don’t think my father would subscribe to that but despite that, my mother insisted we must bring somebody who would not bring anything to the table and must abide by humility, integrity and fear of God and my wife had a good measure of all these. So I think even as I speak today, she is the most qualified to be my wife.

You always accomplish things you set your mind on, how come you never broke the patience of your wife or you didn’t even try to?

I didn’t try to and I didn’t need to break it but she is extremely patient just that I am a gadfly. I have my lines and I keep to those lines, so she is infinitely patient.

What would you describe as your lowest point in life, what has given you the biggest pain?

The loss of my father which came at a point I was defending my PhD thesis; I thought my father would have seen the icing on the cake, what he has made of his boy. I thought he would have been around to see some of those things. I have this burden of debt that I couldn’t give back. I was only able to buy him aftershave old spice so could that be the only thing anybody can get after spending your time and energy shaping and panel-beating one person to make him come out good? So I was really touched when the news came that he was gone but I think looking back, we are trying to live our lives within the guideline and frames which he had prepared because quite curiously, at three, he had told me everything, almost everything. I am not confused about anything in life to say what would my daddy do or have me do at a point like this. At each point, I know what he would want me do. Then, God blessed me with a mother that lived long enough to see some of the things I would have loved my parents to see.

What has given you the biggest joy, your highest point in your life?

My doctorate degree in Biochemical Pharmacology. That time, I thought... it took

everything and then when I started publishing my works. My first published article was in Indian Journal of Medical Sciences in 1985 where I studied garlic and its effect on cholesterol and liver lipids and all those kinds of things. When you write a paper and the world recognises that this thing is good enough to make contributions to knowledge. I have a very strong passion for academics. Of course, some of you know that I still teach but beyond teaching, I lead two research groups and I have over 20 published articles between 2015 and now in Biochemistry. I am still involved in research.

How do you relax?

That has changed over time but my friends, my people are the things that keep me happy. More often than not, I stay awake till about 4a.m. not because anybody is compelling me but with my friends.

I have kept tab with all my childhood friends because they are the people you go back to and they are the people who keep around you not because of what you are but because they know you, so at times when I have them around, we talk but I love soccer. Up till 2015, I use to play soccer every Sunday but I have not done that most recently.

And your favourite team?

Enyimba International and Man U. Assuming you were to change any part of you, what would that be?

It is a difficult question because what am I changing into so that I won’t use original and exchange a fake. I like the organism called Okezie Ikpeazu and the way it functions.

Any guilty pleasures in your life?

(Laughs long) I don’t think I have. I had an active youth life as an African boy who grew up with privileges as son of a teacher in those days. Privileges in the sense that I had parents that were respected and then wherever I went around and introduced myself as son of so person, people look at me with seriousness, not now that many teachers are no longer respected that much.

Then as an adult, I also had psychologically and socially balanced adolescence and youth life. I tried all kinds of things every young man would try and thank God that I had the courage to drop those I didn’t need for the rest of my life. Then, life is like a journey of somebody on a pilgrimage; when you want to plan to cross the desert, if you had two bottles of water, you carry them as you are trekking and you consume all the water in one water bottle, and you had water only in one, the best thing is to drop the empty water bottle so that you conserve energy. So what I don’t need, be they habit or anything, I drop them going forward. I will go back to teaching and full time gospel because I like to teach in the church actively almost every weekend, two weeks in a year. At times I marvel at that.

What is left of me is teaching and spending

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Harrysong I Used to Be a Fisherman, But Music Got the Better Part of Me…Here I am Today Entertainer, Tare Okiri Harrison, A.K.A Harrysong, recently battled depression. He shares the story of how he conquered depression and other controversies surrounding his career with CHINEDU IBEABUCHI

R

ecently, you shocked the world with your depression message and got your fans worried.

What were you actually going through then?

What I was going through was pressure. It was a lot more than I could really have envisaged. I was depressed basically, then it was pressure and I needed to speak out to also help myself and help others. So it was also a lesson not just to me but to others and thank God, I am out stronger and back to business.

So how were you able to conquer your depression process?

Because I was real to myself, it was a big challenge for me.

So, I try as much as I can, not to focus on myself but to the works that needed to be done and people that are looking up to me. And being strong for myself is also being strong to millions and also being real for myself is also being real to millions. So, I try as much as I can to put 20 per cent on me and 20 per cent

on the people around because at the end of this whole journey, the goal is to be a blessing to my generation and also to live a fulfilled life. Thanks to my manager and the rest of the team.

What is your advice to fellow musicians who are probably passing through a depression process and afraid to speak or don’t know how to speak up just like you.

We have a very good opportunity on social media. There is so much competition and pain there. We are normal just like the average man on the street, we should try as much as possible as we can as celebrities, as role models to be real, be truthful to ourselves and preach love.

As we approach the yuletide period, what should your fans be expecting from you?

Of course, I know my fans are expecting the best from me. They are expecting a single from me and my management is set to drop my next single titled, Report Card. I know they are expecting a lot from the video and audio. Basically, they want the best from me and I can assure them I will not disappoint.

Can you evaluate your 2018?

My 2018 has been a total blessing to me and the entire management of AlterPlate.

I prayed to the Lord and yes of course we had some challenges, ‘major’ challenges but we conquered and here we are today, still grinding and pushing harder very strong.

Why do your songs have strong old school vibe, what influences this choice and is it deliberate?

I influence like 80 per cent of my production basically. And about the message, the inspiration from the messages are from life itself, everything that happens every day is my inspiration, what is going on, the ups and downs, the good and the bad, the everything. Life is like my biggest inspiration.

For some time now, you have been running your record label. How is it being the Chief Executive Officer of AlterPlate As President of Alterplate, it’s been amazing. I am not just as a free man but a responsible man. I am not responsible for just myself alone but for other people as a team, as a company, as a family and as a movement. It feels great to be a source of empowerment as the President of Alterplate. Again, I would say in the best of my knowledge I know that about 70 to 80 per cent, we have served as a very huge content provider in Nigerian entertainment circle.

What has managing Alterplate for this short period taught you differently from being an artist?

It has taught me that being an executive is not just about the label or the platform.

It is also about giving back and about an expansion, about making and remolding yourself and that is what we have been doing over the years. Creating new contents, expansion and making and re-making ourselves and that is why we have younger people under the platform whom we are building to become ‘Younger Kings’ to take over the industry and be a blessing basically. The platform is big enough to accommodate as much as we want to bring on board and we have younger ones that we are also building to be unveil very soon, either before the end of this last quarter or say the first quarter of 2019.

Does Harrysong see himself going overseas for greener pastures or to expand your music career in the

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So, I try as much as I can, not to focus on myself but to the works that needed to be done and people that are looking up to me. And being strong for myself is also being strong to millions and also being real for myself is also being real to millions. So, I try as much as I can to put 20 per cent on me and 20 per cent on the people around

Harrysong

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Stronger and Back to Business nearest future?

Music has taken me round the world, from one show or the other. I am not looking for greener pastures, I am very comfortable where I am and besides from where we are, we are inspiring the world and people come from every part of the world to book us for shows and events.

We go and do what we have to do to still make money, merry and return to base.

So, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think I am going to look for anything else abroad. My management is also considering me doing something outside the Nigerian space, but definitely, not relocating completely.

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s go back a little, what really went wrong between you and Five Star Music?

I and Five Star story have been over flogged. We have talked about it severally.

Alterplate is about two years now! Going back to that is trying to spill the wheel all over again. We had our good times, we had our rough times, we have moved on.

So, we should let it go and just progress. If it is of the will of the people and the will of God that someday Harrysong and Five Star can still do business together, why not?

The door is always open.

You talk about the will of God, how religious are you?

God has been good to me. I am a Christian and I love God passionately. And in case you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know, I attended and graduated from a pastoral school.

Do you think your life and career generally have been Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s direction, Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grace?

I succeed by talent, hard work and

by Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grace. There wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be the Harrysong that you see today and the Harrysong forever if not for Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grace.

What is that thing that stands Alterplate out?

Alterplate Music is different because of our sound definition, business strategies and our large capacity to execute and meet deadlines.

While growing up, which artiste or what music did you listen to?

I listened to old school music, gospel music and the likes of R-Kelley and Kirk Franklin. Those were the people I listened to. Also, Michael Jackson was also one of my favourite. So, those are the kind of music that defined me today.

Talking about sound, sound keeps

revolving in the music industry. What do you think is the problem with Nigerian musiciansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; handling of sound?

I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see it as a problem because many are called but few are chosen and the challenge with the way Nigeria musicians handle sounds is that when there is a new sound, they over use it and in the end, it becomes a problem and the fans get tired until we have another infusion before there is a relief. For me, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what is going to continue even outside the shore of the country, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what is working for them. So, at every given time, we have the sounds that come up and everybody will groove until someone else will create something else. So it is normal.

What is one sound that you are yet to explore and you really wish to explore?

The sound that I am yet to explore is the Caribbean sound, because the Nigeria platform is still covered with the copy and paste style. Yes, we cannot leave the Afrobeat sound but artistes are scared to leave their comfort zone. I am approaching that Caribbean sound and we are going to get there.

There is quite a lot that people talk about auto tune. A lot of people say that there are no more original voices anymore. What is the effect of auto tune in music?

First of all, it was called pitch corrector. It is now called auto tune because it is very obvious in the vocals. It has nothing to do with the beat; it has nothing to do with the tune. So, it is mainly on the vocals and that is why it is called pitch corrector. When artistes pitch while singing, that effect is meant to correct the note on the voice.

Again, when it is over used, it becomes abused. Now there is no vocal that they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t put that effect on but the over usage of it is the abuse and it becomes a problem.

These days we should grow up understanding that the fans we sell this music to are getting wiser and a lot of things are being questioned. So, auto tune is normal but it shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be over used because the primary purpose is to correct tune.

What is one of the greatest lessons you have learnt being a music director all your life and then romancing music.

The greatest lesson I have learnt all my years being a music director is to work.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop working, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop evolving, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop doing your research, improve on your musical knowledge. Nobody is the best. We just get better as it goes. Music is bigger than just the sound. Music is life;

music rules the world.

You talked about exploring the Caribbean songs. Are you looking at exploring the Caribbean market?

Yes, I am looking at that. Well, we already have a test run that we did and it is like 60 per cent in the market already.

There is possibility that it is going to work.

So we are working to improve it.

What is your most embarrassing moment as a music director?

That was when I was in Church of God Mission and I was supposed to work with a set of choir. They didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe in what I was going to offer. They heard so much about me and they saw me as a young man and thought they needed to school me before the session. That rehearsal was supposed to take like five hours and it took like three hours to prove myself to them that the person that they are underrating is actually their teacher.

As an artiste, what will you like to be remembered for?

I will like to be remembered for my works and the messages that pass through my music, the work that I have done and how it has infected the people. Basically, I would like to be remembered for doing evergreen songs.

Who are your favourite all-time Nigerian musicians?

Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Rex Lawson and Tuface Idibia. I love their legacy and inspirations.

How about ďŹ shing? I learnt that you used to be a ďŹ sherman?

(Laughs) Yes. I am half Deltan, half Bayelsan and I grew up in Port Harcourt.

It is natural. I used to be a fisherman, but music got the better part of me and here I am today. God willing, I will go back to the business of fishing someday.

You recently did a remix of Selense and there were some controversies or some disagreement around the artiste you were to feature. What actually happened?

Selense was already a hit song and I decided not to feature Kiss Daniel for the remix. We did the remix with Iyanya and Dice Ailes. The original song was with Kiss Daniel and Reekado Banks. But I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t shoot the video because, at some point in the project, I realised they werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t falling in line with the original idea of having them in the song. So, I moved on and I am happy I did. I still love them regardless.

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SPECIAL REPORT ON THE MOST EXCEPTIONAL STATE CHAIRMEN OF PDP (SERIES I)

A Dynamic Politician Repositioning Imo State PDP Towards Achieving Electoral Success – Barr Charles Babatunde Ezekwem, PDP Chairman, Imo State He is a believer in consensus and he has continually demonstrated his capacity to translate political expectations into reality. Barr. Charles Ezekwem, JP, Ikemba Okigwe, the Chairman, PDP Imo State is one of the professionals in politics who are giving politicking a better meaning in Nigeria today.

Propelled to become a politician by his family background and his burning desire to serve and contribute towards the development of Nigeria, he has degrees in Information Science/Sociology and Law from Abia State University in 1991 and 2011 respectively. The astute politician with social conscience had served in GLIIHUHQW DSSRLQWHG DQG HOHFWLYH RI¿FHV where he made impact before he was found worthy to be the Chairman of the opposition party in Imo State and in which capacity he has worked with other party executives to reposition Imo State PDP towards the achievement of electoral success in the 2019 elections.

In this special report, he speaks on his vision, challenges and how he has been managing the affairs of the party in the state.

His Background I come from a solid family background. , DP WKH ¿UVW VRQ RI WKH /DWH &KLHI Joseph and Chief Mrs Patricia Ezekwem.

I attended Ekulu Primary School GRA Enugu, one of the best in the then Eastern Region. My Late father was successful/ strong politician of note. He was the LGA Party Chairman, and later State Treasurer of SDP. He was also appointed as the SUHVLGHQWLDO OLDVRQ RI¿FHU LQ FKDUJH RI Imo State by the Alhaji Shehu Shagari led NPN Federal Government. It was through this appointment that he attracted all the Federal low cost houses in Okigwe Urban.

My mother was a one time member of Imo State Executive under Dr Alex Obi led State Executive of PDP. I attended and obtained my Secondary 6FKRRO &HUWL¿FDWH IURP (PPDQXHO College Owerri in 1985. I proceeded to Imo State University Okigwe (now Abia State University) where I obtained my Bsc (Hons) in Information Science/ Sociology, a combined course. I did my NYSC in Bauchi State in 1991and was discharged in 1992. , ZRUNHG EULHÀ\ ZLWK 7ULD[ $LUOLQH /DJRV and later Nigerian Embassy Niamey, Niger Republic, before I proceeded to the United States in search of greener pastures.

I returned to Nigeria in 2002 to assist PDP in the 2003 general election that re-elected Chief Achike Udenwa after which I was appointed Executive Assistant to the Governor in 2003.

This marked the beginning of my political career in active politics. When Local

is not a PDP State presently and PDP being the main opposition party, has the Government of the day to contend with, and people who are so pauperized by a bad Government that cannot guarantee one square meal a day for any of its subjects. This poses a big challenge thereby making a good number of them vulnerable to challenges of the stomach; and the tendency to fall for cheap bates from Government. Imo State also is the State of very many political big wigs.

You have to know to carry them along.

I have been able to take it with caution, patience and diplomacy knowing fully well that by 2019, PDP will take back power and life will be made Pleasurable again as was the case when PDP was in power in the State previously.

I, as a matter of deliberate policy and action, present to Imo people hope for a better tomorrow when my party will once again put smile on their faces via good Governance and people oriented polices to be pursued by PDP led Imo State Government come 2019, in alternative to present oppressive APC led Government of the day.

Government Development Areas were created in 2005 by the Achike Udenwa led State Executive, I was appointed the pioneer coordinator/chief executive of Okigwe South Local Government Development Areas where I emerged as the best coordinator in Imo State and received an award as such.

In 2010, I was appointed the sole administrator of Okigwe LGA, which position, I later resigned to enable me contest for the position of executive chairman of Okigwe LGA in 2010. I was returned unopposed because all my fellow contestants withdrew from the contest before the election due to my track record as sole administrator. I received awards also as best sole administrator and best executive chairman in Imo State during my tenures within those periods.

Let me mention that I started my Law Program in 2007 and got my LLB (HONS) IN 2011 from Abia State University. I was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2013; after attending the Nigerian Law School, Kano.

His Guilding Philosophy My guiding life philosophy is love for

On How Imo State PDP Was Able To Conduct Credible Primaries I pursued a deliberate policy to return the party to the owners who are the people and assured them from the beginning of freedom of choice in terms of the FDQGLGDWHV WKDW ZLOO ÀDJ WKH 3'3 ÀDJ for the various elective positions; as against imposition of candidates which alienates the electorate, and most times previously, set them against the party one another. When you love a people, candidates. you will not easily and deliberately do His Vision For Imo State PDP them wrong, your conscience bearing you My vision for Imo State is to return witness: I believe in the law of cama, whatever goes around always comes PDP back to Douglas house and ensure around. I am driven by a deep sense for the people of Imo State a Government of empathy. This is the major reason I with human face which will alleviate am always very restive with injustice. I their present sufferings. go against oppressiveness; I go against On What Imolites Should Expect highhandedness; I go against impunity; and I take my stand always on the side From Imo State PDP Candidate If of the oppressed to plead their cause. It Elected as the State Governor in 2019 Our party is presenting a pragmatic does not matter to me how highly placed the aggressor or oppressor may be, I personality who understands the chalget seriously agitated and my antennas lenges facing this state. With his clear always rise in opposition wherever any developmental vision and his passion to use his wealth of experience for the of these evils are found. common good of this state, Imolites should On His Decision to Become a Politician expect a compassionate government that 0\ IDPLO\ EDFNJURXQG LQÀXHQFHG PH is sensitive to the plight of the people. a great deal. I also had burning desire His Advice For Other Political to serve and to contribute my quarter towards the development of my dear Stakeholders in Imo State I will advise other stake holders in country, Nigeria.

Imo State to join hands with PDP to On The Challenges of Repositioning vote out this insensitive and oppressive APC Government both at the state and Imo State PDP 7KH ¿UVW FKDOOHQJH LV WKDW ,PR 6WDWH national levels.

THISDAYt SATURDAY DECEMBER 8, 2018

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EXPRESSION

MEDIAGAFFES

Each Otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Throat

EBERE WABARA

V

ANGUARD Front Page Banner of December 5 welcomes us today: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tinubu, Atiku at each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s throats (throat)â&#x20AC;? Both of them have just one throat each!

According to the Book of Proverbs (12 v 1), whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid. On this note, you are welcome to this weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contribution.

For me, I treasure other language columnists and cherish the candour of those who critique my own work. There is no perfection in the business of public communication, yet we have to keep striving after purism.

Our serial errors this week are from The Guardian of November 16: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Even when members of the Special Task Force (STF) came to restore order at the venueâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;?

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth: restore order to (not at) the venueâ&#x20AC;Ś. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ekiti CAN members protest over Benue killingsâ&#x20AC;? The Flagship (is it still?) of journalism in Nigeria should know that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;protestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; takes â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;aboutâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;againstâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;atâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;; not â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;overâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Even these are optional. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In Nigeria, if you loose, you call a press conference telling the world the judge does not like your face or is biased and so on.â&#x20AC;? Just lose. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first private refinery takes-off soonâ&#x20AC;? Phrasal verbs abhor hyphenation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every one of us has a part to play as electorates because this is the only country we have.â&#x20AC;? Democracy for Justice: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;electorateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is a collective that does not need any inflection. A rewrite: Every one of us has a part to play as a member of the electorate or as an elector (or still, all of us have a part to play as the electorate). Perhaps, with time, the usage would register.

The Guardian Opinion Pages of November 16 splashed five undemocratic lines: â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;Ś good governance in a continent where the use of impunity, unfortunately, has become an instrument of democratic governance.â&#x20AC;?

Tunisiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s changing times: on a continent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Like (As) I have always saidâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;Ścalling to question the forced involve-

BY

ment of Nigeria in the second world war.â&#x20AC;? At a time like this: World War II. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was this situation that heightened the political condition in the country that culminated intoâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Culminateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; takes â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;inâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. â&#x20AC;&#x153;London was actually constantly under siege until he was eventually extradited back to Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;? The Guardian is not on trial, but let us delete â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;backâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; from the extract for all partiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; collective grammatical sanity.

From the preceding diseased headline to this juvenile slipshodness: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Doctors suspend stike in Kaduna, Ebonyiâ&#x20AC;? Even the computer underscored this strike carelessness from the same page as above! Do we still have editorial bastions (proofreaders) this time round? Remember: not â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;this time aroundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, which is an American expression!

As an aside, I recollect my foundational entry into journalism on March 14, 1983, as a proof-reader in the heyday of Daily Times!

This cutting of teeth on reading and writing underpins whatever modest professional attainments I have reached today and the concomitant currency of my career profile.

The 1983 proofreading class of fond memories comprised Kenneth Chioma Ugbechie, Isaac Hope Anumihe, Tony Ikhuenitiju (now Olumuyiwa) and Olaosun Okalanwon under the head readership of Mr. Abu Olarenwaju, a detribalized Nigerian and an urbane gentleman.

Lastly from THE PUNCH under â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;crossexaminationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; after my historical intervention: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The facility will result in improved security profile of the Internet traffic and save the nation of the embarrassment ofâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;?

Info-tech: save the nation the embarrassment ofâ&#x20AC;Ś. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The PDP last Thursday held its special national convention to elect the partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presidential candidate in the general elections next February.â&#x20AC;? Cover Story: February 2017 (last April); February 2018 (this February) and February 2019 (next February). Any appeal? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Renowned filmmakers will converge in (on) Nigeria next week forâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Voice of the Electorate (V.O.T.E) congratulates PDP delegates nationwide for (on/

upon) defining historyâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;? (Sacredness of advertisement copies notwithstanding)!

THE PUNCH OPINION of November 10, 2018, circulated two goofs: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Politically, experts in IT advocated for the use of e-voting systemâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;? Once again, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;advocateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; when used as a verb does not admit â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;forâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There will be what I call enriched mobile communication experience come 2019 through mobile moneyâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;? ICT development: experience in 2019. â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;Śtodayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presidential primary may be riddled with so much (many) underhand deals and sharp practices.â&#x20AC;? What is the difference between â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;underhand dealsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sharp practicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;? The latter should subsume the former! An aside: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;muchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; instead of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;manyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;In doing so (a coma) some of the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s supporters may certainly have overstepped the bound of proprietyâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;?

From the other side: the bounds of propriety. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Reactions to this position have been pouring in, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highly elating that most share same position.â&#x20AC;? This way: most share the same position. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Majority of Nigerians are of the opinion that a country roundly blessed has no business tottering at the brink of disintegration and collapse.â&#x20AC;? A/the majority of Nigeriansâ&#x20AC;Ś. â&#x20AC;&#x153;NURTW boss commends members over (for) Lagos LG electionsâ&#x20AC;?

The next infraction is from the Editorial of the above edition: â&#x20AC;&#x153;As we have (had) noted in previous editorialsâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;ICT centre for school pupilsâ&#x20AC;? (Source: as above) I believe we should do away with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; here because it is impliedâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;just as it would be wrong to say â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;school studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. I admit that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pupilageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;studentshipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; can, by extrapolation, apply to other spheres of life, but the scholastic context here is clear. â&#x20AC;&#x153;All glory be to God for given (giving) us opportunities.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;Śparents of the graduating students, pressmen (journalists), and other invitees (guests, preferably).â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The next Parent-Teachers Association meeting comes up onâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;? Get it right: ParentTeacher Association

Is Ambode Still Sleeping?

M

any admirers and supporters of Lagos governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, have been worried. They had hoped the pain of unreciprocated goodwill - I mean, the essence of being hardworking, visionary, active and progressive in service delivery and other indices of governance, is that at the end of one term of four years, you are in a pole position to be adorned with a medal of second-term candidacy.

Ambodeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s peculiar fate signposts the faultlines in a broken political chicanery practised all across the African continent. A big man somewhere, or a coven of fat-cats, whose grip on the veins and arteries of state power and funds is embarrassingly firm and red-hot unyielding. They, the so-called godfathers, turn legitimately elected officials into vassals, vendors and vessels of rent-payers.

It is in such depressing cesspool of political husbandry you are blessed with â&#x20AC;&#x153;words-on-marbleâ&#x20AC;? similar to this: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes, he performed as a governor, but didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do well as a politicianâ&#x20AC;?. Such incredulous â&#x20AC;&#x153;wise-crackâ&#x20AC;? is why our politics and governance will often be pressed down by irreverent greed, pseudo-diabolical machinations, barefaced pilfering, morally destitute fat-cats... and clogging the channels of good governance.

So, we appreciate the profound disappointment of Ambode at being fed the humble-pie, and being visited with same whip other ambitious but unfortunate aspirants have had the distateful pleasure of embracing in the past. We understand that the shock of betrayals may cut both ways, and he has been left with the blunt edge of the machete (well, some of his traducers also have their own haunting stories to tell).

Yes, we get it... and we are genuinely incensed at the foul situation. We also have accepted that though politics has been variously slandered as being dirty. However, some of us believe that it is the practitioners that are dirty, unprincipled, avaricious, conniving, inveterate liars, and more.

Politics can be used for the good and benefit of a huge swathe of people, when fair-minded, industrious, purposedriven and people-loving men and women take the harness of power. Stretching the argument further, it is clear to operators and observers of party politics in Africa that the game (or business) is akin to a binge at the casino jackpot box-machine - you may hit a jackpot once in million moon, but mostly the pulls deliver â&#x20AC;&#x153;dud-chequesâ&#x20AC;?...fluffy nothingness. Except a cotton-wooled naive puppet, no politician should be shocked

by betrayal, disappointment, disapproval or dissension...in this climate, the ugly expression of humanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s psychological or mental failings is the rule, rather than the norm.

It is therefore worrisome to note that Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, since the October firestorm, appears to be in a sleep-walking mode. What exactly is wrong with Ambode? Is he really so shocked that he had absolutely no inkling of the political back-stabbing that visited his exalted office? Is it possible that he actually believed his deputy and commissioners (picked for him by a time-tested system of remote proxyism) would turn against their authentic source of relevance, and pitch their tents with him? Or are there prevailing forces still sitting on his head or heart, choking his vision and insisting on rubbishing his legacies?

Well, the focus of this article is neither to probe the psychological state of the governor, nor his mental capacity to bounce back from a tormenting trouncing from erstwhile friends and associates. Our purpose today is to wake Mr. Governor up from what looks like a slumbering inactivity - at least, from an outsiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perspective.

Less than a year into his tenure, which began May 29, 2015, residents of Lagos State were delightfully praising the acumen and vision that the Ambode administration invested in dealing with the annoying â&#x20AC;&#x153;hold-upsâ&#x20AC;?. Major roads were repaired (obviously, potholes cause traffic to move slowly); traffic-lights refurbished; arterial roads were unblocked, and lay backs and stops were hacked out of major ways. The traffic response was gradual and apparent: going from Ogba, near Ikeja, to Falomo in Ikoyi, used to take all of two, three hours during the rush-hour (6am-9am). Then, like magic, the time frame shortened to less than one and half hour. We started praising the governor and his aides. I remember Chief Tony Okoroji on my TV talkshow (FAJ-Alive) gushing about it: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whatever magic the governor is using to get the traffic moving, he should not stop... heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done a fantastic job...!â&#x20AC;? He heard our hailing, and promised to do more - and even on more routes.

Then, they started building (or re-building) roads in all local government areas; major bottlenecks were flooded with counter-strategies that broke old deadlocks - and traffic started flowing... shockingly. One of his magical decisions was to hamstring the notorious VIO (and to a lesser extent, the FRSC) from impeding traffic and making motoring miserable.

By the second anniversary of the Ambode administration, the trip from Ogba to Ikoyi had shrugged to less than an hour.

A smart driver with reasonable expertise of the intertwining Lagos roads could make the trip in 45 minutes. It was similar

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

â&#x20AC;&#x153;All materials that are contrabands (contraband) will not only be seized but appropriate (would it have been â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;inappropriateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;?) sanctions will be administered on (to) the erring student.â&#x20AC;?

Finally from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Up Gramsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, founded June 6, 1859: â&#x20AC;&#x153;On (In) the same veinâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;? Up School, Up Boys! If this citadel claims to be the oldest and the best, grammatical solecisms in its publications for public consumption should be an anathema.

DAILY SUN of November 26 committed lexical crimes: â&#x20AC;&#x153;68-year-old man, 2 others arraigned over (on) murder of okada riderâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lagos serves owners of illegal structures 48 hours (hoursâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;) noticeâ&#x20AC;? (Source: as above) â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;Śthe greatness of our country are (is) a combination ofâ&#x20AC;Ś.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chairman of Govs (Govsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;) Forum leads delegation, parley holds todayâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Former governor of Abia State and top chieftain (and a chieftain) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, said he has (had) been vindicated by the recent visit of the APCâ&#x20AC;Śto President Muhammadu Buhari in London.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;FG flags-off (sic) (starts) first modular refineries next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Presidencyâ&#x20AC;? First, phrasal verbs abhor hyphenation. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Flag offâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is one of the sporting terminologies used during a competition like motor/ motorbike/bike racing. Overtime, some Nigerians have misapplied it to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;commencementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of virtually everything. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Osun State, on the other hand, has its own wholly state-owned university at Oshogbo, together with other tertiary institutions which do not suffer the neglect which appear (appears) presently (this is otiose) reserved for LAUTECH.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;It, indeed, shows how lowly we take matters of education which ordinarily should be the solid building block for our national development.â&#x20AC;? Yank off â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;solidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; from the extract because a building block is a wall made of concrete blocks, which is confirmatory of solidity.

COUNTERPOINT BY

FEMI

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

relieved experience in many other areas of the state usually notorious for energy-wasting â&#x20AC;&#x153;traffic-jamsâ&#x20AC;?: Maryland to Ojuelegba, Agege Motor Road-Oshodi-Mushin to old Western Avenue, Apapa Road-Oyingbo, Hubert Macaulay-Iddo axis, etc. It was too good to last, apparently. But whatever the â&#x20AC;&#x153;condimentsâ&#x20AC;? applied by the Ambode administration, it worked brilliantly, and we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t keep quiet.

Now, it is as if the government of Ambode is â&#x20AC;&#x153;on leave of dutyâ&#x20AC;? - permanently! Or his government has gone on exile.

The timing was suspect. People have begun to wonder: the bad traffic heartaches are back, with vengeance! The roads are clogged with bad drivers, unruly vehicles and nonchalant traffic managers. What happened? Is it that the governor was so smitten by his loss of a return ticket that he has lost appetite in the last seven months of his tenure? Is he punishing Lagosians for not standing up for him at his hour of need? Is he trying to give his party a bad name with which to hang it come February general elections? So many questions troubling average Lagosians.

Gradually and maddeningly, the roads have gone to the dogs - worse than the pre-Ambode interventions. Tankers and trailers have virtually overwhelmed our overland bridges and Ikorodu Road - to the clear frustrations of law-enforcers, and chronic devastation of man-hours, pleasure and â&#x20AC;&#x153;ease of doing businessâ&#x20AC;? for law-abiding citizens.

The Ogba-Ikoyi trips have returned to three hours (if you get out before 6am), or five, six hours on some occasions. Yet, roads are not the only headaches. Lagos appears to be on a free-fall. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no sense of leadership or motion. Until very recently, the governor was not seen regularly in the public space... The aura has gone... The man on the Alausa seat seems cold, absent-minded of current realities...distracted by the future...gutted by the past!

With more than five months before he hands over to the next governor, can the statesman and servant-leader in Akinwunmi Ambode rise to the occasion - give Lagos residents, and Nigeria, first-class services that will erect monuments of adoration and wreaths of nostalgia in the hearts of the people.

It is wise to finish strong, even when you have nothing to lose than the ringing words of history etched in posterity.

25

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 8, 2018

TRIBUTE

Goodbye UCD Okoye, the Administrator Par Excellence Sam Ekpe

S

oon after the Nigerian civil war of 1967 – 1970, a new lexicon was used to refer to the select group of Federal Permanent Secretaries who held the reins of the Federal Administration and advised the Military Government of Yakubu Gowon during the war. They were called Super Perm Secs. The likes of Philip Asiodu and Allison Ayida belonged to this group.

In the Old Eastern Region of Nigeria, there was also this select group of Permanent Secretaries - well educated and experienced in administration and contributed immensely to the huge political, social and economic success that the Government of Eastern Region ably led by the visionary Dr Michael Okpara had become. This select group led by Chief Jereme Udoji included UCD Okoye, G.I Nwokike and JBC Anyaegbuna.

Uchenwoke Chukwuebonam Dickson Okoye, Ide Nnobi was born on 16th May 1922 to the Umuezisike kindred of Umuagu Village, Ngo Quarters Nnobi in Ideneili South Local Government Area of Anambra State. He had four sisters as well as two younger brothers. His father Alfred Okoye was an Anglican Catechist who did missionary work in many places, far away from their locality including Egbu in Owerri. At age of 10, his father sent him on tutelage to live with fellow catechists and other Church workers. They included Catechist and Mrs Modebela of Abagana and later with Godwin Ezeama, a school teacher at CMS Central School Abagana. In 1939 he became a pupil teacher at ibagwa Ihaka CMS Central School in Nsukka where his parents had relocated and from there sat for the entrance exam to secondary school.

In 1940, he was admitted into the very famous Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS) Onisha. After four years in the school, he passed the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination in flying colours. Even before the result came out, he was offered appointment as a 3rd class clerk at the Eastern Region Secretariat in Enugu. After 3 months in employment, he was transferred to the District office in Udi, where for the first time, he worked under a white man. Mr E.K Chadwick.

His work experience under Chadwick during which he learnt typing and shorthand within two weeks, prepared him for his various future challenges in the public service. At the initial stage of his career, he attended many courses oversees including 12months Senior Officers Course in London School of Economics and Political Science in 1956/57 and six months course at the World Bank Washington DC under the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, where under the auspices of the Economic Development Institute, he was trained in Budgeting, Project Evaluation and Appraisal, Trade & Legal Obligations, Economic Policy and Development, Fiscal Policy and

Okoye

Public Finance, Monetary Policy, International Trade & Finance, Agricultural Funding, Industrialization and Social Trends in Development. It was at one of these in service trainings in the United States of America that he got to meet the then America President Lynadon B. Johnson during a visit to the White House.

On his return from additional graduate level education and training Oversees in Britain and the United States, he took up the position of Assistant Secretary of Finance. From here his career rocketed to the next level. In 1962, hardly a year later, under the Administration of Dr Michael Okpara, he was appointed Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Town Planning for the whole of Old Eastern Region of Nigeria now comprising 12 different States. The next year, 1963, he was assigned to the Ministry of Establishments. He also served as co-head of the Government Review Committee that came to known as Carter Okoye Salaries Review Committee. This was also the year in which the Federal Government brought in United Nations Demographic experts who supervised the use of IBM machines for collating figures for the Ministry. In recognition of UCD’s leadership role in this project, effectively one of the earliest

deployments of computerized administrative deployments, he was in the same year made a member (one of two or three from the Eastern Region) to serve on the Federal Census Board, with similar representatives from the other Regions of Nigeria.

His efforts along with those of his colleagues and overall boss Jereme Udoji in continuing to provide unparalleled leadership in the Civil Service of Eastern Region of Nigeria was interrupted by the Nigerian Civil War which caused massive dislocation and disruption of government policies, programmes and projects.

When refugees fled to the East from their places of abode in Northern Region of Nigeria, he was appointed Rehabilitation Commissioner in 1967. During the three years of the war, UCD took up many positions of leadership in the Biafran Civil Service, including Head of the Biafra Militia (he had declined being commissioned as a Military officer but took up the Directorship appointment as a non-commissioned officer).

UCD retired from Public Service in 1978 But since a gold fish has no hiding place, he was still involved in public activities until his demise recently. Soon after the Civil War, he worked briefly as Chairman of the Nigerian Water Planning And Construction Company (Ministry of Industries) in the Ukpabi Asika administration and Co-Director of the post war East Central State Government owned-Oriental lines from where he retired to establish his private businesses.

UCD also had non professional commitments and interests.

Throughout his life, he remained a devoted Christian and was very active in his home church, St. Simon’s Anglican Church Nnobi, serving as Chairman of the 1975 Building Committee of the Church. A life member of Bible Society of Nigeria, UCD Okoye was a first generation Knight of St Christopher (Diocese on the Niger).

A prolific writer like his father, Sir UCD Okoye wrote an 86 page autobiography which has not been published. His father had also maintained a 63 page history note book. Ide Nnobi was widely travelled and had visited many cities all over the world including Nice, Barcelona, Rome, Venice, Millan, Hamburg, Zurich, London, New York and Miami.

Late Ide Nnobi was married to late Agnes Ifeoma Okoye Nee Anyadiegwu of Oba, Mmilidoluedo who died in 2000. They are survived by many children and grand children. His remains will be laid to rest on Tuesday December 13 2018 after funeral service at St Simon’s Anglican Church Nnobi.

A man who did many good and great things, who touched many lives positively and left indelible footprints on the sands of time cannot die. He lives in the minds and hearts of those he left behind. So it is with Chief Sir UCD Okoye, the Super Permanent Secretary of Old Eastern Region of Nigeria, Ide Nnobi, the very amiable, tall, elegant and handsome gentleman. May your very gentle, dynamic, forthright and kind soul find eternal rest in the Lord, Amen.

––Sam Ekpe is a media consultant based in Abuja

Accountability Watchword of Udom’s Administration Ike Nwankwo

O

ne of the many things that have endeared Udom Emmanuel to the people of Akwa Ibom State since 2015 is his professional pedigree. It is the belief that coming from an industry where accountability and transparency are key ingredients of corporate governance, he would be in the best position to manage the state’s enormous material and human resources and move it away from the profligacy and wastefulness that had characterized the administration before his own. What seemed to give vent to the belief is his deep religious disposition and the fact that he was a relatively new face on the political scene and had therefore not been tainted by the numerous ills of the country’s politics.

With about six months to the end of his first term, the governor has proved that the people’s faith in his integrity was not misplaced. If there is anything that can be said about Udom’s failings, it is not his inability to manage the state’s financial resources in a manner that is beneficial to the state.

Nor can it be said that his administration is lacking in transparency and accountability – two words that were generally acknowledged to be missing in the lexicon of his immediate predecessor.

Indeed, if there is any wrongdoing the Akwa Ibom governor has been accused of by a handful of people, it is the fact that under him, there hasn’t been the free money that moved around a small circle before the advent of his administration. The accusation of stinginess leveled against him by some of his traducers has nothing to do with unwillingness to spend money on developmental programmes and projects for the

people of the state, but the fact that he has remained resolute in his determination to ensure the resources of the state do not remain in the pockets of a few individuals, as was the case before his assumption of office. It is one of the reasons he fell out of favour with his predecessor and erstwhile political ally, Godswill Akpabio, which led to the latter’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.

Udom, a former executive director with Zenith Bank, has brought corporate governance into public office in a manner that was never thought possible. He has stuck to the culture of openness and accountability he entrenched from his first day in office, and has been able to prove that public office could be run transparently. The perception of him as being tight fisted has to do with the fact that he pays attention to minute details that would otherwise be overlooked by many in his position.

The governor goes to any length to ensure every kobo spent by his administration is accounted for, even if it means adopting the most ingenious methods to guarantee accountability in the management of public funds. He is known to have a calculator permanently placed on his table, and would not approve any expenditure if the figure on the document presented for his signature does not tally with his own calculations. That is why it would be difficult to link him with any case of financial impropriety.

Udom’s brief tenure as secretary to the state government before his election as governor exposed him to the intricacies of political governance, which include the intrigues, conspiracies, betrayals and backstabbing that constitute the ubiquitous

banana peels that line the path of public office holders, especially at the highest levels. As governor, he was once reported as saying that the only two people he trusts are his wife and himself.

The undue attention shown by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to Udom administration’s finances, including a brief freezing of the state’s accounts recently, is generally believed to be politically motivated – seeking to hang a dog by first of all giving it a bad name. The EFCC has found all its efforts frustrated by the governor’s integrity and adherence to accountability, which is the reason it has not been able to find anything linking him with impropriety and abuse of office.

The loss of those that were used to free money has proven to be the gain of the people of Akwa Ibom, as the governor has been able to utilize the state’s lean resources to achieve what would generally be considered the impossible in just three years in office. These achievements are evident in all the areas that directly touch the lives of the people of the state.

In the area of industrialization, the Udom administration has established nine industries that include an electricity metering company adjudged to be the first of its kind in Nigeria; a world-class syringe manufacturing company, a four mill and a toothpick and pencil manufacturing company. The governor has opened up the hinterland by constructing and rehabilitating over 1, 7000 kilometers of roads and building 35 bridges, to drive home the fact that Akwa Ibom does not begin and end in Uyo, the capital. His administration has built a second runway for the Ibom International Airport – the only airport, apart from Lagos, with two runways, while the state is the only one in the country

that owns and maintain and airport without the support of the federal government.

The government has made education not only free but compulsory in public schools, while it has taken over seven community schools and constructed or renovated 62 school blocks. It has so far spent over N600 million on West African Examination Council fees for final year students in secondary schools. The government has been able to clear a backlog of outstanding pensions and gratuities for retired civil servants in the state, and makes prompt payment of salaries a top priority.

In the area of agriculture, the government has cultivated 1, 6000 hectres of cassava farmland and 11, 000 hectres of coconut plantation for its coconut refinery. It has registered 4, 920 rice farmers and trained 450 youths in cocoa maintenance.

Udom has been able to achieve so much with so little because of his pedigree as an astute manager of resources. Akwa Ibom receives the highest allocation from the Federation Account. But what is not generally known is the fact that not all that is published as being allocated to the state actually gets into its coffers. A larger chunk of the amount goes into paying back the huge debts Udom’s predecessor incurred, which included bank loans he took to pay, upfront, for uncompleted projects that the present governor has been spending fresh monies to complete. These loans are deducted from source, while the government has to make do with whatever is left.

It takes a manager steeped in financial prudence, accountability and corporate governance to do what Udom has been able to do these past three years in Akwa Ibom.

––Nwankwo writes from Port Harcourt

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t DECEMBER 8, 2018

26

SPYGLASS

with BAYO ADEOYE .... 08054680651 email: bayoolunla@gmail.com

Femi Otedola Dazzles again at Augustine University Last March, billionaire oil magnate, Femi Otedola, dazzled at the Augustine University’s Fundraising and Founders’ Day event held at the Muson Centre, Lagos. The Chairman of Forte Oil, who was the Chief Launcher at the occasion, wowed with his speech.

He also pledged to donate a well-equipped Faculty of Engineering building to the institution, which will be worth over N500 million. As a gentleman known for keeping to his words, he last Tuesday, fulfilled his promise when he laid the foundation of the building in the presence of the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, His Grace, Most Reverend Dr. Alfred Adewale Martins and his mother, Lady Doja Otedola among other notable personalities.

Without a doubt, this has further confirmed Otedola’s love for quality education. It will be re-

called that his father, the late Michael Otedola, who was a former governor of Lagos State, handed over the first parcel of land meant for the development of the institution to Archbishop Olubunmi Okogie some years ago. “So, it was Otedola’s utmost joy to continue from where his late father stopped, “a source said.

A deep pocket, he loves giving back to his society without blinking. Indeed, philanthropy comes naturally to him. This he does effortlessly. However, he loathes people singing his praise over such acts.

Over the years, Otedola has been responsible for the education of countless underprivileged students in Lagos State through the Michael Otedola University Scholarship Scheme, which was established in 1985.

FEMI-OTEDOLA

Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s Cross It is no longer news that Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State has lost out in his bid to install Abdulkabir Akinlade as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2019 governorship election in the state. But what is rather baffling is his alleged hatred for Dapo Abiodun, who is recognised as the standard bearer of the party, and his desperation to upturn the mandate. In his desperate bid to upturn the mandate given to Abiodun, Amosun repeatedly visited President Muhammadu Buhari, all to no avail.

Before his visit to the President, he had reportedly boasted to all that the President would grant his wish, as he had threatened to dump APC for Accord Party, if his wish was not accepted. But he got the shock of his life when the President told him point blank that he would not go against the decision of the party’s NWC. Leaders of the party have since mounted pressure on him not to move

AMOSUN

and to place the interest of the party above personal interest.

Amosun reportedly issued the threat to dump the party during a meeting with some party leaders and his loyalists across the 20 local government areas of the state held at his private residence located inside Ibara GRA, Abeokuta, where he lambasted some of the party’s leaders, including a former governor of the state, Olusegun Osoba and Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu for attempting to ‘disgrace’ him.

He was said to have also berated those he termed “Abuja connection APC” for standing the rules of the primary election on its head to produce Abiodun as the party’s candidate instead of Akinlade.

Amosun reportedly said he could not work with Abiodun, who he said “lacked the wherewithal to win a senatorial district, let alone the whole of Ogun State.” He even

reportedly vowed to scuttle the progress of APC in the state, as some of his aides and loyalists have moved to different parties to realise their ambitions.

We also gathered that his attempt to pick all the 40 members of the party to contest for the Ogun State House of Assembly seats in the 2019 general elections has failed.

“Amosun is just being stubborn. He cannot have his way in the party with his illegal moves.

The primary election cannot be reversed.

Amosun is having serious issues with Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He widened the gulf between Tinubu and President Buhari, when there was a cold war between them. It will be difficult for Amosun to achieve his aim. It is grand alliance by those he has reportedly persecuted politically in the past. They are bringing all diverse interests together for this purpose,” a source stated.

Homeland Integrated Boss, Louis Ekere’s Kind Gestures Billionaire businessman, Dr. Louis Ekere, Chief Executive Officer, Homeland Integrated Offshore Services Limited, is a great achiever by all standards. It was, therefore, not surprising that he was awarded a honorary Doctorate degree by the Trinity International University of Ambassadors, Atlanta Georgia, United States of America, recently.

The award is conferred on individuals who are deemed worthy and are doing great work at home and abroad.

Incidentally, the conferment of the award is coming on the heels of his recent graduation from the Harvard

Business School.

In his resolve to ensure Nigerians across every spectrum enjoy quality healthcare services, Ekere, an alumnus of the IESE Business School, Barcelona, Spain and the Lagos Business School, recently opened the multibillion Naira WellMed Healthcare Ltd, an indigenous healthcare company in Lagos that offers one-stop diagnostic solution services with state-of-the-art medical equipment.

Ekere is also involved in several philanthropic activities, the recent being the free medical testing on World Hepatitis Day in Ajah, La-

gos, and environs, where residents were screened for chronic diseases, including diabetes, hypertension and obesity.

He has offered free high-end radiologic and pathology investigations, including MRI and CT scan, hitherto not affordable to indigent patients of public hospitals including Massey Street Children’s Hospital, General Hospital, Lagos and Epe General Hospital.

Dr. Ekere has employed and sponsored indigenes of host communities, where Homeland IOS Ltd operates amongst several other activities.

LOUIS-EKERE

Wound still in Dabota Lawson’s Heart

DABOTA-LAWSON

The name Dabota Lawson is almost synonymous with controversy. The controversy surrounding her failed marriage to Prince Sunny Aku is still fresh in the minds of many. Soon after her marriage crashed, she disappeared from the social scene, giving room to insinuations in some quarters that she was either broke or still busy licking her wounds. ButAku, the boss of Novena Majesty Furniture, maintained his cool and rather focused on his business, even in the face of provocation. Recently, Dabota gave reason for people to believe that she was still nursing the wound in her heart, especially as she poured her heart out on her Instagram page.

According to her, her biggest regret was marrying Aku whom she tied the knot with back in

2014. Reflecting on her regrets, she wrote: “This weekend, I spent a lot of time thinking and talking about past events in my life. My friends kept saying ‘Dabota everything happens for a reason and you are who you are today because of all that had happened.’ But I said to them, ‘no!! I’m not so thankful.’ I wish I made better decisions and was careful before getting involved with certain things and certain people. I wish I could see the future of how some of my poor decisions will stay hunting me, because they actually do? Every time I win or do better it’s because I chose to and I took a right turn, not always because I’ve learned a lesson.

“The only thing I know is my mind and heart is just stronger, too strong for my own good. I’m

almost not in touch with reality and strictly focused on pursuing goals and making sure everyone and everything around me is fine. I miss being care free and the softness and innocence I used to have.

I hate the fact that I have major trust issue and assume everyone has an ulterior motive around me. I mostly regret ever getting married in 2014 (please keep all that lessons and whatever you think I got from it talk). I hate the fact that I did! Period!

“The only thing I did right that keeps me going was making the decisions to go through with my pregnancy and have my child. My daughter is the only thing I’ve done right in the world of over 25 years of my life. That’s how I feel. Be careful about the decisions you make in life.

27

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t DECEMBER 8, 2018

MARKET PLACE with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

2nd Vice President, Association of Certified Fraud Examiner,ACFE, Lagos ; Dr (Mrs) Titilayo Fowokan; President, ACFE, Lagos, Dr Godwin Oyedokun; Vice Chancellor,Lead City University/ Patron, ACFE, Nigeria, Prof. Aderemi Adeyemo; 1st Vice President,ACFE,Lagos,Donatus Ogbonnaya and President,ACFE,Abuja, Emmanuel Ishili at the 2nd edition of ACFE Nigeria annual conference held at Equity resort in Ijebu Ode,Ogun State recently

Public Affairs and Communications Manager, Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd, Nwamaka Onyemelukwe ; Community Affairs Manager, Coca-Cola Nigeria, Emeka Mba; and Corporate Communications Manager, Coca-Cola West Africa, Linda Okondo, with the award for best company in the Good Health and Well-being Category presented to Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd at the 12th SERAS Awards held in Lagos recently

Goge AfricaTargetsTourism Boost in Latest Rebranding Itel Mobile Concludes S13 Nationwide Campus Tour In a move that would further advance the richness of African culture to the world, culture and tourism firm,Goge Africa has relaunched itself into the industry to gain more impact.

The firm informed that its latest drive was in preparation of its 20th anniversary that comes up next year October , as well as need to explore the sector more deeply, in the interest of Africa.

Addressing members of the press recently, Chief Executive Officer of the outfit, Amb.Metche Isaac Moses recalled that the company started 19 years ago with little experience about the industry ,but has been able to stamp its feet in the $4billion space,with its commitment and passion for the job.

Moses explained further that as part of the

rebranding exercises, the organizations would be expanding its operations in tourism, events & festivals, culture, consultancy, media & production and a digital craft store.

He added that the firm’s activities would henceforth ensure active participation of all stakeholders ,most especially the youths.

Managing Director of the firm, Amb. Nneka Isaac-Moses,also pointed out the strong need for Africans to understand their different culture to aid progress in the continent.

She said that the firm was out to realise this, leveraging the right talent ,resources and channels to tell African stories just as it is.

Shedding more light on the agenda of the firm’ s 20th anniversary, Nneka said,” over the

years,we have acted as consultants to festivals within and beyond. Next year,we are considering floating our own festival to commemorate our 20th anniversary.There shall also be an anniversary gala, tourism and culture symposium/conference, boat cruise and African tour to select cities.

She also expressed the willingness of the brand to partner with corporate organizations and individuals interested in exploring opportunities on the sector.

This according to her ,in addition to government input,would help drive growth in the sector.

The highlight of the programme was unveiling of the company’s new logo that comes in yellow, orange and brown colours, depicting Africa as a land of happiness and sunshine.

AFAR Elects Chairman of Capri-Sonne Promises Fun Governing Council, Others With Beach Ball Promo The Association of Forensic Accounting Researchers (AFAR), has elected Prof. Muhammad Akaro Mainoma, as the Chairman of its Advisory Council and Board of Trustees.

A statement by the association also explained that President of AFAR, Dr. Godwin Oyedokun and 1st Vice President, Dr. Titilayo Fowokan were also elected the 1st Vice Chairman and 2nd Vice Chairman of the council respectively.

In his new role, Mainoma is to assume responsibilities for leading the association to growth and efficiency, given his experience in corporate governance, public sector and international accounting.

Mainoma belongs to several professional and academic bodies both in Nigeria and abroad, including the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, CITN, Association of

National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) and International Association of Accounting Educators and Researchers, amongst others.

He has served in several capacities in both public and private sector. He was a Commissioner for Finance in Nasarawa State and the immediate past Vice Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi.

Commenting on his new role, Mainama said: “I’m delighted to be part of this opportunity for a focussed research. As the field is getting recognition in our land, there is need to support it with cutting edge researches to explain phenomena and articulate basis of decision.

“At this board, we shall discuss the possibility of floating a journal of Forensic Accounting and Fraud Investigation, JFAFI, as soon as possible, to provide an outfit for the publication of forensic researches only.

Capri-Sonne, the favourite fruit drink of children in Nigeria, has launched a new national consumer promo tagged the “Beach Ball Promo”. The promo, which includes a free Beach Ball in every carton of Capri-Sonne, is expected to create more fun moments for kids by ensuring a stimulating unboxing moment and encouraging them to play some more.

The “Beach Ball Promo” will offer children across Nigeria one more reason to enjoy their favourite fruit drink, as nothing speaks to a child’s playfulness like a bouncing beach ball which can be used in all sorts of exciting games.

For a brand universally associated with creating fun moments for children, the Capri-Sonne “Beach Ball Promo” will seek to enhance brand affinity and product consumption through activities that encourage active play for kids whilst having a taste of fun.

The promo is being amplified nationwide with an effective media campaign running on major regional and national television channels and radio stations in the country. It will also be simultaneously driven through advertisements on billboards, engagements on digital platforms, point of sales outlets and experiential consumer engagement platforms in various cities to connect with consumers.

According to the Deepanjan Roy, the Managing Director of Chi Limited, the Capri-Sonne “Beach Ball Promo” is another unique platform to reward fun loving consumers across Nigeria.

“The Capri-Sonne Beach Ball Promo is an opportunity to gift more fun moments to millions of children, and reward them as they relish the delicious taste of fun and excitement in every carton of their favourite drink purchased within the promo period,” he stated.

Vogue Pay Shines at World Quality Award

GTBank Launches Platform for Shoppers

Leading financial technology company,VoguePay has won the global leading premium online payment solution provider of the year award, at the World Quality Day, 2018.

The award, under the auspices of the World Quality Alliance and Chartered Institute of Quality, United Kingdom, celebrates organisations that places due importance to global quality standards.

According to the organisers, the global quality excellence awards recognised individuals and brands that have excelled in quality management, and create awareness on the impact of quality on national economic growth.

It is a memorable recognition for a company that combines European banking best practices with local financial frameworks.

Receiving the award, Co-founder and Chief operations officer of VoguePay, Mr Quam Ojikutu expressed satisfaction in the recognition and also reiterated

Guaranty Trust Bank Plc has unveiled a platform, branded, ‘Habari’, to provide customers with seamless shopping experience. The platform also offers catalogue of local and foreign music as well as lifestyle features.

Speaking at the launch of Habari in Lagos, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Mr. Segun Agbaje, explained that the initiative was as a result of the bank’s yearnings to satisfy customers other needs, beyond banking services.

“By reimagining the role of banking and driving innovation in how we serve customers, we have built a platform that is less about us as bank and more about our customers and everything they need to enable their lifestyle.

“Habari is not a mobile banking application; it is the start of our

the company’s commitment to quality and excellence.

He noted that the award came on the heels of several other industry recognitions for VoguePay, the latest being the ‘most innovative online payment platform of the year 2018’ at Finance, Mobile and Entertainment Summit, FMES organised by TechTV communication.

In 2014, VoguePay became one of the first payment aggregators in Nigeria to comply with International Financial Reporting Standards,IFRS, and other financial best practises, including the recent GDPR data protection framework.

Co-founder and Chief legal officer of the firm, Geoffrey Weli-Wosu, added that as part of the company’s record in compliance and advocacy, It recently partnered with INTERPOL and also volunteered to be part of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s fraud committee among several other advocacy initiatives.

journey towards building a platform that connects our customers to everything that they need, and which continues to evolve with their lifestyle.

We are excited about this journey and we are confident that our customers will see in it, a simple, smart and exciting digital experience that adds value to their lives.”

Agbaje further added that Habari is the first mobile platform in Nigeria created by a financial institution that focuses on enabling people’s needs and lifestyles rather than providing a limited bouquet of regular banking products.

“The mobile application is open and free for all to download that does not require mobile banking details. It offers a wide range of services, all of which are accessible to anyone regardless of where they choose to bank,” he said.

Ugo Aliogo

Itel Mobile has concluded the nationwide campus tour of one its latest phones, the Itel S13 with a dance competition at Federal College of Education, Technical Akoka, Lagos.

Speaking at the event in Lagos, the Marketing Manager, Itel Mobile, Oke Umurhohwo, stated that as part of efforts to create awareness for the S13 brand, they visited different higher institutions such as Ahmadu Bello University, Adekunle Ajasin University, University of Ibadan.

“We are here for the Itel S13 I got the move contest nationwide campus tour and this is the last day.

We go to different schools, such as Ahmadu Bello University, Adekunle Ajasin University, University of Ibadan and now to Lagos,” he noted.

He said that in line with creating awareness for the brand, they organised a dance competition where the best dancer was given N500,000.

Umurhohwo further stated that there were different forms of dances and in the end; the prize money was given to the most versatile, most active and engaging dancer.

According to him, “At Itel, we have different model series, we have the B, A and S series. The S series is more for the youth. The series is trendy and reliable. This is majorly the target market of this phone. This programme has been ongoing for like a month. This is the first time we are doing the programme to promote the Itel S13. We hope that this event will increase the awareness for the Itel S13 and part of the way it will do that is having a media plan around the Students. We are expecting Students from all the campuses in Lagos State.

The more awareness increases, the more sales increases. One major feature that the Itel S13 has is the 13mega pixel, the self-camera, it is friendly, affordable and reliable. The phone is sold for 23,800.

We have visited 10 Schools in Nigeria.”

DEVELOPED Lauches Innovative Prining Solutions A new brand of printer, DEVELOP, has entered the Nigerian Information Communication Technology (ICT) market, with innovative solutions.

Launching with ‘Ineo +227’ and ‘Ineo +258’ multifunction color copier and printers, DEVELOP was introduced to the market by Skysat Technologies, a partner of Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe Gmbh.

Speaking at the product launch witnessed by its dealers across the country, Managing Director of Skysat Technologies, Izzat Debs said that the new product stood for modern and professional office communication solutions.

“We are trendsetters and are making a confident and creative contribution towards shaping the future.

Our understanding of advice far exceeds mere analyses and recommendations, we assess, design and guide.

“Increasing productivity in our customers’ environment is our primary objective. DEVELOP multifunction copiers available in Nigeria include B&W and color multifunction copier and printers, with a full range of software solutions adapted to the needs of the market. We also have Ineo 185 and 226 copiers.

Senior Executive, Indirect Sales, Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe Gmbh, David Nuttall, explained further that the solutions boasts incredible features beyond ordinary printing that would enable users charge for extra services and make more money.

28

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž DECEMBER 8, 2018

FAMILY HEALTH with

Genetic Disorders in Man

T

he human DNA is made up of 46 chromosomes, and each man has a definite sequence , and no two human beings have the same gene makeup.

This means that your genetic makeup is specific to you and this gives you your human capabilities, shape, intelligence, weaknesses and strengths, susceptibility to illnesses, and immunity , amongst other things.

In the same way, any defect in your gene sequence, results in genetic disorders or illnesses. This would result in various manifestations of the abnormal gene formation in your DNA. We all began life as a single cell at conception when an egg from your mum and sperm from your dad came together. This single cell divided into two and then into four and so on until you developed into a complete human being made up of billions of cells. It was your genes that instructed your cells to divide in this way and that controlled how you developed. The role your genes play in shaping who you are doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t end at birth.

Your genes are constantly being used by your body throughout your life to keep it functioning. They interact with the environment around you and influence everything from your health to your appearance, your behaviour and your personality.

Inside almost every one of oure cells is a tiny structure called the nucleus which acts like the control centre of the cell. Inside the nucleus are 46 chromosomes. Each one is made up of a long strand of DNA. Along the length of the DNA strand are hundreds of genes (like beads on a piece of string â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the string is the chromosome and the beads are the genes).

It is estimated that if a strand of DNA was stretched out, it would be around two meters long, even though the average cell is smaller than a pinhead.

Chromosomes:

Our 46 chromosomes come in 23 pairs. The chromosome pairs are numbered from the longest, number 1, to the shortest, number 22. The 23rd pair of chromosomes are our sex chromosomes, the X and Y chromosomes. Women have two X chromosomes (XX) and men have one X and one Y chromosome (XY). All the other chromosomes are the same in males and females.

We inherit one chromosome in each pair from our mum and the other from our dad.

Genes : The strand of DNA which makes up each of your chromosomes is arranged into sections called genes.

Each gene is a single instruction which tells the body how to do a particular job A genetic disorder is a genetic problem caused by one or more abnormalities in the genome, especially a condition that is present from birth (congenital). Most genetic disorders are quite rare and affect one person in every several thousands or millions.

Genetic disorders may be hereditary, passed down from the parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; genes. In other genetic disorders, defects may be caused by new mutations or changes to the DNA. In such cases, the defect will only be passed down if it occurs in the germ line. The same disease, such as some forms of cancer, may be caused by an inherited genetic condition in some people, by new mutations in other people, and mainly by environmental causes in other people. Whether, when and to what extent a person with the genetic defect or abnormality will actually suffer from the disease is almost always affected by the environmental factors and events in the personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development.

Some types of recessive gene disorders confer an advantage in certain environments when only one copy of the gene is present.

Causes

Genetic disorders can either be inherited from both parents or from a single parent. Genetic disorders can be caused by a mutation in one gene (monogenic disorder), by mutations in multiple genes (multifactorial inheritance disorder), by a combination of gene mutations and environmental factors, or by damage to chromosomes.

Monogenetic disorders are caused by a mutation in a single gene. The mutation may be present on one or both chromosomes (one chromosome inherited from each parent). Examples of monogenic disorders are: sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, polycystic kidney disease, and Tay-Sachs disease.

Genetic disorders can present as either Single gene or Multiple gene disorder.

Single Gene Disorders

A single-gene disorder is the result of a single mutated gene. Over 4000 human diseases are caused by single-gene defects.[4] Single-gene disorders can be passed on to subsequent generations in several ways.

Autosomal dominantOnly one mutated copy of the gene will be necessary for a person to be affected by an autosomal dominant disorder. Each affected person usually has one affected parent. The chance a child will inherit the mutated

gene is 50%. Autosomal dominant conditions sometimes have reduced penetrance, which means although only one mutated copy is needed, not all individuals who inherit that mutation go on to develop the disease.

Autosomal recessive-

Genetic Disorders

Genetic disorders can either be inherited from both parents or from a single parent. Genetic disorders can be caused by a mutation in one gene (monogenic disorder), by mutations in multiple genes (multifactorial inheritance disorder), by a combination of gene mutations and environmental factors, or by damage to chromosomes.

Monogenetic disorders are caused by a mutation in a single gene. The mutation may be present on one or both chromosomes (one chromosome inherited from each parent).

Examples of monogenic disorders are: sickle cell disease, cystic ďŹ brosis, polycystic kidney disease, and Tay-Sachs disease

Two copies of the gene must be mutated for a person to be affected by an autosomal recessive disorder. An affected person usually has unaffected parents who each carry a single copy of the mutated gene (and are referred to as carriers). Two unaffected people who each carry one copy of the mutated gene have a 25% risk with each pregnancy of having a child affected by the disorder. Examples of this type of disorder are Albinism, sickle cell disease.

X-linked dominant Main article: X-linked dominant X-linked dominant disorders are caused by mutations in genes on the X chromosome. Only a few disorders have this inheritance pattern, with a prime example being X-linked rickets. Males and females are both affected in these disorders, with males typically being more severely affected than females. Some Xlinked dominant conditions, are usually fatal in males either in utero or shortly after birth, and are therefore predominantly seen in females X-linked recessiveX-linked recessive conditions are also caused by mutations in genes on the X chromosome. Males are more frequently affected than females, and the chance of passing on the disorder differs between men and women. The sons of a man with an X-linked recessive disorder will not be affected, and his daughters will carry one copy of the mutated gene. A woman who is a carrier of an X-linked recessive disorder (XRXr) has a 50% chance of having sons who are affected and a 50% chance of having daughters who carry one copy of the mutated gene and are therefore carriers.

Y-linkedY-linked disorders are caused by mutations on the Y chromosome. These conditions may only be transmitted from the heterogametic sex (e.g. male humans) to offspring of the same sex. More simply, this means that Y-linked disorders in humans can only be passed from men to their sons; females can never be affected.

Y-linked disorders are exceedingly rare but the most well-known examples typically cause infertility. Reproduction in such conditions is only possible through the circumvention of infertility by medical intervention.

MitochondrialThis type of inheritance, also known as maternal inheritance, applies to genes encoded by mitochondrial DNA. Because only egg cells contribute mitochondria to the developing embryo, only mothers can pass on mitochondrial DNA conditions to their children.

Multiple Genes Disorder:

Genetic disorders may also be complex, multifactorial, or polygenic, meaning they are likely associated with the effects of multiple genes in combination with lifestyles and environmental factors. Multifactorial disorders include heart disease and diabetes. Although complex disorders often cluster in families, they do not have a clear-cut pattern of inheritance. This makes it difficult to determine a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s risk of inheriting or passing on these disorders. Complex disorders are also difficult to study and treat, because the specific factors that cause most of these disorders have not yet been identified.

There is also a strong environmental component to many of them , r "TUINB BVUPJNNVOF EJTFBTFT TVDI BT NVMUJQMF sclerosis, cancers r $JMJPQBUIJFT DMFGU QBMBUF EJBCFUFT CMPPE QSFTTVSF r IFBSU EJTFBTF IZQFSUFOTJPO JOĂĄBNNBUPSZ CPXFM disease r JOUFMMFDUVBM EJTBCJMJUZ NPPE EJTPSEFS PCFTJUZ r SFGSBDUJWF FSSPS JOGFSUJMJUZ The most common genetic disorder in our own environment are sickle cell anemia, and Downs syndrome.

Downs Syndrome

Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome, also known as Down syndrome or trisomy 21, is a genetic condition that typically causes some level of learning disability and certain physical characteristics.

Characteristics of Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome:

BOBO BODE -KAYODE

lifeissuesfromwithin@yahoo.com 08053372356 (sms) only

Most babies born with Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome are diagnosed soon after birth and may have: r ĂĄPQQJOFTT IZQPUPOJB

r FZFT UIBU TMBOU VQXBSET BOE PVUXBSET r B TNBMM NPVUI XJUI B UPOHVF UIBU NBZ TUJDL PVU r B ĂĄBU CBDL PG UIF IFBE r CFMPX BWFSBHF XFJHIU BOE MFOHUI BU CJSUI r UIFJS QBMN NBZ IBWF POMZ POF DSFBTF BDSPTT JU Although children with Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome share some common physical characteristics, they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t all look the same. A child with Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s will look more like their family members than other children who have the syndrome. People with Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome will also have different personalities and abilities.

Everyone born with Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome will have some degree of learning disability, but this will be different for each person.

Causes of Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome

Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome is usually caused by an extra chromosome in a babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cells. In most cases, this isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t inherited â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simply the result of a one-off genetic change in the sperm or egg. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a small chance of having a child with Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome with any pregnancy, but the likelihood increases with the age of the mother. For example, a woman who is 20 has about a 1 in 1,500 chance of having a baby with Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, while a woman who is 40 has a 1 in 100 chance. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no evidence that anything done before or during pregnancy increases or decreases the chance of having a child with Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome.

Tests For Downs Syndrome:

r DIPSJPOJD WJMMVT TBNQMJOH $74 m B TNBMM TBNQMF of the placenta is tested, usually during weeks 11-14 of pregnancy r BNOJPDFOUFTJT m B TBNQMF PG BNOJPUJD ĂĄVJE JT tested, usually during weeks 15-20 of pregnancy.

If these tests show that your baby has Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome, you and your babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other parent will be offered counselling so you can talk about the impact of the diagnosis.

Sickle Cell Anaemia:

Sickle cell disease is the name for a group of inherited conditions that affect the red blood cells. The most serious type is called sickle cell anaemia.

Sickle cell disease mainly affects people of African, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, Eastern Mediterranean and Asian origin. People with sickle cell disease produce unusually shaped red blood cells that can cause problems because they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t live as long as healthy blood cells and they can become stuck in blood vessels. Sickle cell disease is a serious and lifelong condition, although long-term treatment can help manage many of the problems associated with it.

Symptoms of sickle cell disease :

People born with sickle cell disease sometimes experience problems from early childhood, although most children have few symptoms and lead normal lives most of the time. r QBJOGVM FQJTPEFT DBMMFE TJDLMF DFMM DSJTFT XIJDI can be very severe and can last up to a week r BO JODSFBTFE SJTL PG TFSJPVT JOGFDUJPOT r BOBFNJB XIFSF SFE CMPPE DFMMT DBO U DBSSZ enough oxygen around the body), which can cause tiredness and shortness of breath Some people also experience other problems such as delayed growth, strokes and lung problems.

Causes Of Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is caused by a faulty gene that affects how red blood cells develop.

If both parents have this faulty gene, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a 25% chance of each child they have being born with sickle cell disease. The childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents often wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the condition themselves because theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re only carriers of the sickle cell trait.

Tests For Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is often detected during pregnancy or soon after birth. Screening for sickle cell disease in pregnancy is offered to all pregnant women , to check if thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a risk of a child being born with the condition, and all babies are offered screening as part of the newborn blood spot test (heel prick test).

Blood tests can also be carried out at any age to check for the condition or to see if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a carrier of the faulty gene that causes it.

Diagnosis:

Due to the wide range of genetic disorders that are presently known, diagnosis of a genetic disorder is widely varied and dependent of the disorder. Most genetic disorders are diagnosed at birth or during early childhood however some, such as Huntingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease, can escape detection until the patient is well into adulthood.

(See the full article on www.thisdaylive.com)

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

Can Manchester City Safely Cross Chelsea’s Bridge?

08.12.2018

Tochuckwu Oluehi Super Falcons’ Messiah

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 8, 2018

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GLOBAL SOCCER

Tochuckwu Oluehi: Super Falcons’ Messiah The Super Falcons of Nigeria last Saturday successfully defended the Africa Women Cup of Nations title, winning the tournament for the ninth time. However, the victory did not come on a platter of gold as they had to depend on the heroics of goalkeeper Tochuckwu Oluehi in both the semifinals and finals matches in which she stopped two penalties against Cameroon and South Africa respectively.

Little wonder she was voted the best goalkeeper of the competition and also listed in Africa’s best XI

T

he Super Falcons goalkeeper, Tochuckwu Oluehi, was the hero in the semifinals of the Africa Women Cup of Nations against Cameroon and the finals against South Africa as her penalty saves were what counted for the champions when it mattered most.

In an interview after her heroics in the semifinals against Cameroon, Oluehi said she felt “perfect” when playing the superb role in Nigeria’s 4-2 win.

“Even if I didn’t touch the second one but I dived in the right direction, so it’s a thing of joy for me. We practiced it only once but for me, it’s a gift.

I know how to save penalties when it comes to that. I know if my players

can put the ball in the net, everything will be on me to save the penalties and I did that, so, I am very happy helping my team. The semi-final match against Cameroon was our toughest match since we started this competition, but thank God we won at the end of the day,” she said.

“I feel great but my defenders have been awesome. They’ve been good covering up for me in the sense that that much pressure hasn’t been on my side for me to concede any goal.

They’ve been so good in the defence that’s just it.”

The Super Falcons first-choice goalkeeper who after the semi-final with Cameroon had appealed for more support from Nigerians in order to help the squad win the final against

South Africa, said she was happy being Nigeria’s hero on the evening in Accra, Ghana, adding that the biggest thing on her mind now was how the Falcons would win their ninth title.

The Rivers Angels of Port Harcourt shot-stopper also expressed delight with the FIFA Women’s World Cup ticket achieved with the win against Cameroon, and said they want to be in France as African champions.

“We want Nigerians to continue to support the team. Once we get total support from the fans, we will not disappoint Nigerians. We want to beat South Africa on Saturday, so that we can go to the World Cup in France as champions of Africa, and make Nigerians glad,” Oluehi had said then.

Before last Saturday’s encounter

against the Banyana Banyana, Oluehi said they would tackle the match with the mindset of avenging that painful defeat.

“Meeting South Africa in the final is what we have been praying for because we want to play them again. We want to tell them that winning against us in the group stage was a mistake and it’s not going to happen again. I’m sure we will beat them in the final,” said Oluehi.

“This is what we’ve been praying for. We want to show them that beating us in the group stage was just a mistake. I am happy that we are meeting Bayana Bayana in the finals.

It is an opportunity for us to show the world that the first match we lost 1-0

DECEMBER 8, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

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GLOBAL SOCCER

to them in the group stage was due to an error which we have to correct,” she continued.

However, Oluehi’s art at saving spot kicks did not start with the 2018 AWCON in Ghana, followers of the Nigerian Women Premier League (NWPL) must have at one time or the other witnessed a penalty-saving performance from the 31-year-old goalkeeper.

During last year’s AITEO Cup quarter-final between Rivers Angels and Edo Queens, the two teams were inseparable over two legs in the quarter-final games of Nigeria’s Cup competition, having played goalless in Port Harcourt and Benin respectively, Oluehi then came to her team’s rescue, saving the hosts’ first two spot kicks with the third fired wide. Her team, Rivers Angels won 3-0 on penalties.

In the AITEO Cup final against Ibom Angels, Oluehi also saved two spotkicks as defending champions Rivers Angels defeated neighbours 3-0 on penalties to win the AITEO Cup in Jos after both teams had fought out a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Oluehi’s expertise at saving penalties also came to the fore again in the NWFL Champions Shield earlier this year as her two penalty saves ensured that Rivers Angels defeated Nasarawa Amazons 4-3 to ensure her side was crowned champions of the 2018 NWFL Champions Shield.

Proving it against Cameroon and South Africa at Ghana’s AWCON has proved beyond reasonable doubt that stopping penalty kicks by Oluehi is never a fluke but rather an art.

It, therefore, came as no surprise that the Super Falcons safe hand was voted the best goalkeeper at AWCON 2018 and is also one of only two Nigerians that made the tournament’s Best XI list.

In 2014, Oluehi as Super Falcons second choice goalkeeper departed Nigeria for the United Arab Emirate (UAE), to sign for Al-Wahda FC of Abu Dhabi, a move the team’s media officer, Gracious Akujobi, believe would be of immense benefit to the Super Falcons as it strives to fortify its goalkeeping position ahead of international engagements.

Meanwhile, the nine-time champions of AWCON will today know their 2019 FIFA Women World Cup opponents with the draw billed to hold in France. Having dominated the African continent, Nigerian football fans are hoping that Super Falcons will put up a good showing in the France 2019 edition.

With all Confederations qualifying series decided, players and coaches are anxiously looking forward to knowing their group opponents and which cities in France they would be playing, when the tournament kicks off in June 2019.

It would be the eighth edition of the FIFA Women World Cup which began in 1991 and Nigeria have made it a birthright to be present in all tournaments. Nigeria posted her best performance so far in the tournament in 1999 reaching the quarter-final before losing to Brazil 4-3.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation President Amaju Pinnick has vowed to give the Super Falcons all the deserved attention to ensure they prepare adequately for the FIFA Women World Cup next year in France.

“The NFF will look for the resources to give the team solid preparation.

At France 2019, we will make a big impact at the FIFA World Cup and not simply go there to make up the number,” Pinnick promised.

G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE WAHAB AKINTUNDE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR CHIKA AMANZE-NWACHUKU THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE

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GLOBAL SOCCER

Can Manchester City Safely Cross Chelseaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridge?

Chelsea would be hoping to bounce back from mid-week defeat to Wolves as they welcome Premier League leaders-Manchester City to Stamford Bridge today. The Blue have slipped to fourth position on the table after two defeats in less than two weeks and would be hoping to get back to winning ways with the visit of the Citizens, who are yet to taste defeat in the 14week old Premier League

helsea welcome the Premier League champions to Stamford Bridge in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s late kick-off in another big clash at the top of the table. The Blues has slipped to fourth in the top-flight having only won one of their last four fixtures and face a huge task to get anything from this weekendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blockbuster.

Sarri say Pep Guardiolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unbeaten City, who have won 13 of their 15 games this term, are the best team going. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Manchester City are in another category. We have to play and to fight to be in the top four. The result is very difficult for this, because I know in every match you have to gain points. In the last championship in Italy I lost Serie A with 91 points, so I know very well you have to gain points in every match. City are the best team in Europe, maybe the best in the world,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Chelsea lost 2-1 at Wolves on Wednesday night despite going ahead after 18 minutes thanks to Ruben Loftus-Cheek. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We played very well for 55 minutes.

After their first goal, that was an accident because we were in full control of the match, we were suddenly another team, without the right distances and without our football. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know why. I am very worried, not with the result, but for the fact we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t react to the first goal of the opponent. We didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t react at all. I worried about this,â&#x20AC;? Sarri added.

Sarri made a host of changes for the trip to Molineux but the Italian doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t regret resting the likes of Jorginho, Pedro and David Luiz.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you asked me after 55 minutes I would say yes, I am really very happy. Then we lost everything: our football, the result, everything, for an accident, a goal. It can happen. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think it depends on the changes; it depends on the mentality of the team. We can lose a match, but not without a reaction.â&#x20AC;?

It has taken less than two weeks for the optimism generated by a 12-match unbeaten start to Maurizio Sarriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reign at Stamford Bridge to fizzle out and this weekend the Italian faces his biggest test to date when Manchester City visit.

In fairness to the former Napoli manager, he stressed throughout the heady days of early Autumn that Chelsea were not equipped to challenge City for the title and ahead of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clash between the sides a 10-point gap has opened up.

On Tuesday, Pep Guardiolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s City maintained a searing pace at the top with a win against Watford. Twenty-four hours later Chelsea went down 2-1 at Wolverhampton Wanderers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; their second defeat in three Premier League games.

Sarri said his side had only played well

for 55 minutes at Wolves and knows they will have to be at full tilt for 90 minutes this evening if they are to have any chance of halting the City juggernaut.

He said he expects a â&#x20AC;&#x153;big reactionâ&#x20AC;? today but already appears to have settled for a top-four scrap along with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal rather than chasing down Liverpool and champions City. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Manchester City are in another category. We have to play and to fight to be in the top four,â&#x20AC;? Sarri said after the setback at Wolves. City are the best team in Europe, maybe the best in the world. They can win the Champions League.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;English football has an exceptional holding midfielder,â&#x20AC;? said Pep Guardiola in August. If he had got his way, that outstanding anchorman would be a City player. Instead a player Guardiola was confident of signing will face them.

Jorginho was reunited instead with Maurizio Sarri at Chelsea. Rather than building a side around the Italy international, the Catalan will instead attempt to stop him constructing attacks in Chelsea vs Manchester City on Saturday.

Guardiolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s argument that Jorginho is outstanding is indisputable in one respect: the former Napoli man stands out in the statistics, topping the charts for touches and passes this season. He broke the Premier League record for most passes attempted against West Ham. In contrast, he has been at his least effective in the two games when opponents have put a persistent, quick player around him; if not man-marking him, then certainly not allowing him to run the game.

All of which could give Guardiola a dilemma. Sergio Aguero has a prolific record against Chelsea, with seven goals in as many games, but whether or not the Argentinian is not fit, Gabriel Jesus, who the City manager believes is the best at high pressing in the world, could be a better fit for the task of stifling Jorginho. An alternative might be to use Raheem Sterling, who has begun on the left in Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major away games so far, as a false nine.

It may suit City in another sense.

Because Sarriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4-3-3 can be quite narrow, especially in midfield, and because Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Golo Kante has operated further upfield than many think is right, it could leave Cesar Azpilicueta isolated against Leroy Sane.

Meanwhile, Jurgen Kloppâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Liverpool, who like City are unbeaten, started without Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane at Burnley on Wednesday but still won 3-1.

With a huge â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;must-winâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Champions League game coming up next week

against Napoli, Klopp may well gamble on squad rotation as they travel to seventhplaced Bournemouth for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s early kickoff.

Victory for Liverpool would take them top, at least until Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s later clash with Chelsea.

Third-placed Tottenham Hotspur will also have a massive Champions League night on their minds when they travel to Leicester City this evening.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino will be less than pleased that his side kick off at 7:45pm GMT with a trip to Barcelona following on Tuesday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a game Tottenham will almost certainly have to win to reach the last 16 of the tournament.

Fifth-placed Arsenal have no such concerns as they host Huddersfield Town today looking to extend their unbeaten run in all competitions to 21 matches.

Manchester United, who are 18 points behind leaders City and eight adrift of

fourth-placed Chelsea after three successive draws, are at home to bottom club Fulham.

United boss Jose Mourinho has made 46 changes to his starting line-up already this season and all eyes will be on his selection again as he comes face to face with the original â&#x20AC;&#x153;tinkermanâ&#x20AC;? Claudio Ranieri, now at the helm at Fulham.

Mourinho left record signing Paul Pogba on the bench for Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2-2 draw at home to Arsenal and also started without Romelu Lukaku, but goalscorer Anthony Martial picked up an injury against Arsenal and is a major doubt to face Fulham.

Also today, Burnley host Brighton and Hove Albion while new Southampton boss manager Ralph Hasenhuttl will be in the dugout for the first time as his side take on fellow strugglers Cardiff City.

West Ham United will be seeking a third consecutive win when they host Crystal Palace in a London derby.

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GLOBAL SOCCER PremiershipTable TEAM Man City Liverpool Tottenham Chelsea Arsenal Everton Bournemouth Man Utd Leicester Brighton Watford Wolves West Ham Newcastle Crystal Palace CardiďŹ&#x20AC; HuddersďŹ eld Southampton Burnley Fulham

P 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15

GD 38 24 12 18 14 4 3 -1 3 -2 -3 -3 -3 -8 -9 -16 -16 -16 -18 -21

PTS 41 39 33 31 31 23 23 23 22 21 20 19 18 13 12 11 10 9 9 9

Fixture TODAY Bournemouth Arsenal Burnley CardiďŹ&#x20AC; Man Utd West Ham Chelsea Leicester SUNDAY Newcastle MONDAY Everton

v v v v v v v v

Liverpool 12:30 HuddersďŹ eld 15:00 Brighton 15:00 Southampton15:00 Fulham 15:00 Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Palace 15:00 Man City 17:30 Tottenham 19:45

v Wolves

16:00

v Watford

20:00

Hot Shots Aubameyang Harry Kane Raheem Sterling Callum Wilson Sergio Aguero Glenn Murray Eden Hazard Mohamed Salah Aleksandar Mitrovic Anthony Martial Richarlison Glenn Murray Sadio ManĂŠ

Arsenal Tottenham Man City Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mouth Man City Brighton Chelsea Liverpool Fulham Man U Everton Brighton Liverpool

10 9 8 8 8 8 7 7 7 7 7 6 6

La Liga Fixture TODAY

Facts

Ëž Chelsea have lost two of their last three home Premier League games against Man City (W1), having lost just two of their ďŹ rst 18 against them in the competition (W11 D5 L2). Ëž Chelsea had just seven shots against Man City across their two Premier League meetings last season â&#x20AC;&#x201C; only Leicester vs Man City (4) and HuddersďŹ eld vs Liverpool (6) had fewer against an opponent last season. Ëž This will be the ďŹ fth time Chelsea have faced Man City in the Premier League with the Ëž Citizens top of the table â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Chelsea won the ďŹ rst two (December 2011 and December 2016), while Man City won both last season. Ëž Maurizio Sarri has not lost two successive league games as a manager since October 2016, when Napoli lost in Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Serie A against Atalanta & Roma.

Manchester City havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t won consecutive top-ďŹ&#x201A;ight visits against Chelsea since January 1955. Ëž City have never won four consecutive matches against Chelsea in all competitions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this is the 161st meeting between the teams. Ëž Manchester City are unbeaten in their last 14 away Premier League games (W11 D3) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never gone 15 without defeat on the road in the top-ďŹ&#x201A;ight before. Ëž Only Robin van Persie (6) has scored more away Premier League goals at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea than Manchester Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sergio AgĂźero (5). Ëž Leroy Sane hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t failed to score or assist a goal in any of his eight Premier League starts this season, with the German scoring six and assisting ďŹ ve.

HEAD TO HEAD

AtlĂŠtico

v AlavĂŠs

12:00

Valencia

v Sevilla

15:15

Villarreal v Celta Vigo

17:30

Espanyol v Barcelona SUNDAY

19:45

Eibar

v Levante

11:00

Huesca

v Madrid

15:15

18/04/03 Man City

1 - 0 Chelsea

Sociedad v Valladolid

17:30

17/30/09 Chelsea

0 - 1 Man City

Real Betis v Vallecano

19:45

17/05/04 Chelsea

2 - 1 Man City

16/03/12 Man City

1 - 3 Chelsea

SERIE A

16/16/04 Chelsea

0 - 3 Man City

15/16/08 Man City

3 - 0 Chelsea

15/31/01 Chelsea

1 - 1 Man City

14/21/09 Man City

1 - 1 Chelsea

14/03/02 Man City

0 - 1 Chelsea

13/27/10 Chelsea

2 - 1 Man City

13/24/02 Man City

2 - 0 Chelsea

12/25/11 Chelsea

0 - 0 Man City

12/21/03 Man City

2 - 1 Chelsea

TODAY Napoli Cagliari Lazio SUNDAY Sassuolo Empoli Parma Udinese Genoa Milan

v Frosinone v Roma v Sampdoria

14:00 17:00 19:30

v v v v v v

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

Fiorentina Bologna Chievo Atalanta SPAL Torino

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž Î&#x20AC;Ë&#x153; ͺ͸͚Î&#x20AC;

GLOBAL SOCCER\\OTHER SPORTS

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Fighting Wilder is Joshuaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top Priorityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Promoter Eddie Hearn said that Anthony Joshuaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top priority remains an undisputed heavyweight fight against Deontay Wilder at Wembley on April 13.

The British star has reiterated his desire to face Wilder in his next scheduled fight at the national stadium after the American retained his WBC belt in a split decision draw with Tyson Fury at the weekend.

Wilderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s co-manager Shelly Finkel wants to resume negotiations for the Joshua fight provided that terms remain private and Matchroom Boxing boss Hearn is determined to agree on a blockbuster bout with all the world titles at stake. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t talk about the negotiations weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re having at the moment, because I did that last time and it bit me in the bottom,â&#x20AC;? Hearn told Sky Sports News. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m going to stay quiet, keep this mush peeled and shut, and try and make the undisputed heavyweight fight. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the priority, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always been the priority, always been the plan.â&#x20AC;?

Joshua has also welcomed a British battle with Fury, who climbed off the canvas twice during the Wilder fight, only to be denied victory by the judgesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; scorecards in Los Angeles.

But Hearn believes the Joshua-Wilder fight must happen next instead of an immediate rematch for Fury. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Josh still likes the Tyson Fury fight.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve spoken to him numerous times,â&#x20AC;?

said Hearn. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Josh is in camp now in America, and he would love to fight Fury, he would. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve spoken to Fury yesterday, just said well done. I take my hat off to him.

I was wrong. He proved me wrong against (Wladimir) Klitschko, he proved me wrong against Deontay Wilder. I think what heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done is remarkable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I still believe Anthony Joshua is hands down the best heavyweight in the

world. I believe he knocks out Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury, but maybe Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be wrong again, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a brilliant time for the heavyweight game. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is a rematch that could happen between Wilder and Fury. But if Wilder really wants to be the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, he must fight Joshua next, otherwise, we may just all miss the boat on that one.

But anything can happen.â&#x20AC;?

Edo Deputy Governor Golf Tourney Ends Today Golfing actions at the Philip Shaibu Birthday Invitational Golf Tournament holding at the famous Benin Club Golf Section (BCGS), GRA, Benin City, Edo State capital will come to an end today.

The golf tourney which teed-off on Friday with over one hundred golfers in attendance has featured ladies category, veteran and super veteran in both men and ladies category.

However, in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event, all BCGS menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, and invited guest golfers will storm the course while the presentation of prizes and birthday party will hold after the game. Also, the thanksgiving service is slated to hold at St. Paul Catholic Church, Airport Road, Benin City, on Sunday morning.

According to the secretary, organising committee, Engr. Ben Oghumah, he noted that the two days tournament organised by Committee of Friends of the Edo State deputy governor in collaboration with the club has featured top golfers including the state governor, Godwin Obaseki, and his deputy as well as other guest golfers respectively.

He added that valuable prizes and trophies will be presented to winners who distinguished themselves in various categories later in the day. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The club is adequately prepared for the tournament, as members from Ikoyi Club and other clubs across the country are taking part at the invitational tournament. Valuable prizes and trophies have been outlined for winners who excel in various categories. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Golfers from Ikoyi Club, Ikeja Club, Ibori Golf and Country Club, Asaba; Shell Club, Ogunnu, Warri; UBTH Golf Club, Benin City; Port-Harcourt Golf Club, Air Assault Golf Club, Port-Harcourt; Ibadan Golf Club; and IBB Golf and Country Club, Kaduna Club, FCT, among others are participating in the event.

Joshua: Wilder in his mind

GOtv Boxing Night 17

Chelsea to Make Contract Scorpion Vows to Retire Nurudeen Decision on Aina

Ridwan â&#x20AC;&#x153;Scorpionâ&#x20AC;? Oyekola, best boxer at GOtv Boxing Night 15 has declared that he will send Nurudeen â&#x20AC;&#x153;Princeâ&#x20AC;? Fatai, former national lightweight champion into retirement. The two boxers are billed to clash in a national lightweight challenge bout at GOtv Boxing Night 17 holding on December 28, at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

The eight-fight show tagged â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Boxing Jams Musicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, will feature live music performances

by Burna Boy, Wande Coal, Teni Da Entertainer and Daddy Showkey.

In an interview yesterday, Scorpion, a product of GOtv Boxing NextGen Search, said his opponent was past his prime and is due for retirement, a duty he has imposed on himself to carry out. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He is a former national champion. His time is gone, but he does not want to admit it. I have taken it upon myself to send him into a fitting retirement by defeating him. He will lose interest in boxing by the time I finish with him. He will see hell,â&#x20AC;? he said.

GOtv Boxing Night 17, the biggest ever edition of the show, will stage the World Boxing Federation Intercontinental super featherweight title fight between Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Seun Wahab and Tanzaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Issa Nampepeche.

The show will also see US-based Nigerian, Oluwafemi Oyeleye take on Meshack â&#x20AC;&#x153;Smart Boyâ&#x20AC;? Mwankemwa of Tanzania in an international light middleweight challenge clash.

Similarly scheduled to be in action is a clutch of big names on the domestic scene, led by Olaide Fijabi, who will take on Yusuf Mufutau in a national light welterweight challenge. In the same category is reigning African Boxing Union (ABU) lightweight champion, Oto â&#x20AC;&#x153;Joe Boyâ&#x20AC;? Joseph, who fights Hammed Hammed Ganiyu; national lightweight champion, Rilwan Oladosu who takes on Mubarak Hamzat.

The show will equally see some of the brightest young talents take to the ring.

Ebubechukwu Eze, a graduate of GOtv Boxing NextGen Search 1, will take on Femi Akintayo in a middleweight clash, while the bantamweight division will see Opeyemi Adeyemi, best boxer at GOtv Boxing Night 4, up against Jamiu Dada.

The best boxer at the event which will be aired live on SuperSport to viewers in 47 African countries, will go home with a cash prize of N1.5 million attached to the Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy.

Premier League side Chelsea are set to make a contract decision on England youth international Jordan Aina in the coming days.

The fullback penned a scholarship deal with The Blues on July 1, 2018 and clocks seventeen on Monday, December 10.

The Blues higher-ups will have to decide whether he remains on the scholarship or offer him a professional contract, just as they did for midfielder Faustino Anjorin, who signed his first pro deal with the club two weeks ago.

The English Football Association states on their website : â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;On or after a player on scholarshipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 17th birthday, the player may remain on a scholarship or may sign as a player under written contract subject to the regulations of the league or combination of which the club is a member, and to the rules with reference to players under written contractâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Jordan, who is the younger brother of Super Eagles defender Ola Aina, joined Chelsea at U9 level after progressing through their development centre programme.

He has appeared five times for Chelsea U18s in all competitions in the current season, of which three were in the U18 Premier League.

CAF Confederations Cup: Itoya Backs Rangers to go Far Enugu Rangers attacking midfielder Kelvin Itoya has told footballlive.ng that he is happy with his goal in the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 win over the Defence Force of Ethiopia but having qualified for the first round of the Championship to play Algeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s USM Bel-Abbes he insists that the journey will only get tougher but the team is up to the task and ready to make the country proud on the continent.

Taking a two goal lead to Ethiopia for the second leg of the CAF Confederations Cup,

the Aiteo Cup champions were shocked in the second minute when the home side converted a penalty but brushed themselves up to win the match 3-1 qualifying with a 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 aggregate.

Bright Silas and Godwin Aguda scored for the away side in the first half before super substitute Kelvin Itoya made it three in the 81st minute. Itoya revealed to footballlive.ng that what gave the team the confidence was their decision not to park the bus. â&#x20AC;?We give God all the glory, Defence Force is not a bad side,

Before leaving Nigeria we had already made a resolve that we were not going to stay back and defend but we were going to come all out and attack and I thank God that it paid off in the end.

We listened to the coachesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; instruction, we came out to play our game, we got the equalizer, and went on to win the game as early as the first half and thank God I was able to get the third goal when I came on.â&#x20AC;?

With the victory, Enugu Rangers will now

face Algerian side USM Bel-Abbes in the first round of the championship and Itoya is confident that the team will do well, also calling for support from Nigerians. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Going into the second round and meeting an Algerian side, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be a tough one also and we want Nigerians to rally round us with their support and prayers and I think we would get the desired result and progress to the playoff stage, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take the games one at a time and see how it goesâ&#x20AC;?

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GLOBAL SOCCER

Odey tries to outpace an opponent

Stephen Odey

Beckoning on Rohr for Call-up With 10 goals across all competitions for his Swiss club -FC Zurich, former Nigeria Professional Football League top scorer- Stephen Odey seems to be announcing himself to Super Eagles Manager, Gernot Rohr for a national team call-up

S

tephen Odey took his goal tally for the season to 10 goals across all competitions as FC ZĂźrich claimed a 2-0 win against Grasshopper in the Swiss Super League last Sunday.

ZĂźrich dominated the game and had 24 shots on target, one of which was the 84th-minute goal netted by the former Mountain of Fire striker .

The 20-year-old has registered his name on the scoresheet in the three competitions he has played for FC ZĂźrich this term, including the Super League, Swiss Cup and Europa League.

Odey has tallied six goals in the Swiss top flight, one in the Europa League against Bayer Leverkusen and three in the Cup. Since his transfer to Switzerland in October 2017, Super Eagles manager Gernot Rohr has not looked at his direction for an invitation to the national team.

With their win in the derby, FC ZĂźrich climbed to third place in the standings.

In a chat with former Nigerian international Waidi Akani, he is of the opinion that if he keeps on scoring for his club there is no way

the Super Eagles coaches would not look at his direction soon. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the Nigeria Football Federation planning series of friendly matches for the senior national team in preparation for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in a yet to be named venue, if Odey continues with the rate he is going he might probably get a look at for one of one of the friendly matches ahead of the 2019 AFCON. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Even if he does not make it to the AFCON, an invitation would be a boost to his morale. He is still very young with several international competitions ahead of him. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Brazil does it very well, anytime their young players are doing very well, he gets an invitation to the national team for friendly matches just to boost his morale and I think we should be toeing the line too,â&#x20AC;? the former Super Eagles defensive midfielder said.

Continuing, Akani said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Odey has always been a hard-working footballer, we all saw what he did while he was with MFM FC while still playing in the local league. If not for his move to Switzerland he would have probably finished as the seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest goal scorer.â&#x20AC;?

Every season, the Nigerian Profes-

sional Football League (NPFL) pitches a new star and in 2017, Odey of MFM FC was the star man.

His striking form left opposing teams in tears and sorrow, and placed MFM FC as a major contender for the league title and eventually earned them a continental ticket in 2018.

The sudden resurgence of the club appears to be tied to the magical boots of Odey whose goal count hits 18. This striker did not just drop from the moon; he is a product of the GTBank Principals Cup, a grass root football development programme of Guaranty Trust Bank.

Odey played in the second edition of GTBank-Lagos State Principals Cup where he was the captain of the winning Dairy Farm Senior Secondary School, Agege. He also topped the list of the GTBank 13-man All Star Team of the Year. It is, therefore, no surprise that the little mustard seed is fast growing into an oak.

In January 2017, Odey received the NPFL Bloggersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Award as the most valuable player of the month. And in the 2017 season, he was the first player to score a hat trick among over 200 players in the league.

His exploit led to his invitation to the Super Eagles CHAN Team

doubleheader qualifiers against Benin Republic in August in 2017.

His impressive performance led to his signing a four-year contract with Swiss club-FC Zurich.

Odey joined FC Zurich last year on a four-year deal and will earn an $8,000 a month at the club, thereby becoming the third Nigerian player to represent the club after the late Rashidi Yekini and Ike Shorunmu.

Initially, the former MFM star struggled for game time at Letzigrund during his debut season, often making cameos, scoring three goals in 19 competitive appearances, playing a total of 581 minutes.

However, for the current campaign, Odey has seen his stock rise as he is now the focal point of the Zurich frontline, a result which has seen him net 10 goals in 19 appearances in all competitions, spending 1,494 minutes so far on the pitch.

Odeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only involvement with the Super Eagles to date came in a friendly with Corsica last year where he featured alongside his former MFM teammate Sikiru Olatunbosun.

He has also been involved with the B Team, playing in the 2018 Africa Nations Championship qualifiers.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t DECEMBER 8, 2018

36

FAIRGROUND with

AZUKA OGUJIUBA

Fidelity Bank Awards Scholarship to Indigent Coding Prodigy

azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

F

idelity Bank Plc last Saturday, held its year end party themed “Doing Good” at the Eko Hotels in Lagos.

The event, which was also used to celebrate a decade of pushing the envelope on corporate sustainability and social giving, marked the 10th year anniversary of its flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative christened the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP).

The event had in attendance stakeholders- customers, regulators, businessmen and captains of industry. It was a night of glitz and glamour as people stepped out in style to celebrate yet another successful year with Fidelity Bank.

Speaking during the event, Managing Director/CEO, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo said the bank was making great progress in the first year of the implementation of its five-year strategic plan, crafted last year.

According to him, “the figures so far are panning out the way we envisaged and it was important to celebrate and thank all stakeholders for the support and patronage”.

He explained that the party was themed ‘Doing Good’ in commemoration of 10 years of its flagship CSR initiative which has recorded numerous achievements in areas of health, environment, education and youth empowerment.

Guests were entertained with good food and drinks including rib cracking jokes from Bovi, stalker and Okey Bakassi. The A-Class entertainment event also had performances from Tim Godfrey, Patoranking and Flavor.

Various CSR projects undertaken by the bank in host communities, such as adoption of orphanages, building of schools, renovation of hospitals and training of over 1,000 youth were showcased during the event.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of a university scholarship to the GirlsCoding prodigy, Miss Sharon Okpoe. The scholarship was awarded in recognition of her efforts at developing a digital solution to helping her father sell fish at the indigent Makoko fishing community in Lagos.

“We were moved by her story when we saw the CNN clip and decided to award her scholarship through university, thus giving her wings to fly”, said Okonkwo.

Okpoe who was accompanied by her parents on the podium could hardly contain her delight as she promised to take advantage of the opportunity offered to her.

“I am very grateful for this opportunity and I will not disappoint you”, she added.

Also in another demonstration of doing good the bank also donated the sum of N1.5m to the Ibadan based Xplicit Dancers; a group of orphaned dancers. They had thought the bank only contracted and paid them for a dance performance.

The added donation came as a delightful surprise to their coordinator Mr. David Abraham and the group of young boys and girls.

Fidelity Bank owes its growing reputation based on financial performance and customer service to its committed work force. “Service is a key differentiator in Banking and at Fidelity we pride ourselves to be a customer-centric bank.

We will continue to innovate to serve you better” said Chairman of the Board of Directors of Fidelity Bank, Mr. Ernest Ebi. The year-end party was used to recognise some of the bank’s outstanding performers both in CSR and financial targets. A total of nine award recipients for Best in FHHP, Deal of the year, Best support team in customer service, Most Valuable Performer (MVP) were honored during the night.

L-R: Chairman, Fidelity Bank, Ernest Ebi; President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Managing Director/ CEO, Fidelity Bank Plc, Nnamdi Okonkwo and Wife, Uche; Chairman, UBA Group and Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu; and Chairman, Forte Oil Plc, Mr. Femi Otedola

Transport Minister, Rotimi Amaechi and Managing Director Genesis Group, Nnaeto Orazulike

R-L: GirlsCoding prodigy and CNN Hero, Miss Sharon Okpoe; Nnamdi Okonkwo; and Mr. and Mrs. Augustine Okpoe, when the Fidelity Bank CEO announced a university scholarship award to Sharon

L-R: RBH Abuja 1 Fidelity Bank, Hassan Imam; Kano State Deputy Governor, Nasiru Gawuna; Aliko Dangote; and DMD Fidelity Bank, Mohammed Balarabe

Organising committee members

L-R: Erelu Abiola Dosunmu; and Managing Director, Futureview Securities, Mrs. Elizabeth Ebi

Publisher THISDAY Newspaper, Nduka Obiagbena

Chief and Mrs Sunny Kuku

37

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 8, 2018

POLITY

GOtv: Supporting Digital Migration March Abolaji Fijabi

N

igeria’s start-stop journey to full digital broadcasting continues with the public not having an idea of when the process will be completed.

About 10 months ago, there was some movement when the Federal Government rolled out the Digital Switch Over (DSO) in Enugu and Osogbo in continuation of its efforts to ensure transition from analogue to Digital Terrestrial transmission across the country.

Reliable statistics from the DSO experience indicates that a total of 745, 480 STBs have been imported into the country. Of this figure, 566, 478 have been delivered, while 485, 409 have been sold. A total of 332, 095 STBs have been activated in Jos and Abuja.

Earlier in the year at a DSO Stakeholders’ Retreat in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, Alhaji Ishaq Modibbo-Kawu, Director-General, National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), stated that preparations for the launch in the two states were close to completion, adding that the launch would hold before the end of the first quarter of the year. He equally stated that the Federal Government’s plan had the objective of concluding DSO roll-out in 12 states. Prior to then, the government had launched DSO in Kaduna, Ilorin, Jos and Abuja.

At the time, the NBC boss explained that a major impediment to the coverage of the states and territories where the DSO had been launched is topography.

“Coverage is related to topography.

Take an example of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. It is a city of hills and undulating grounds. The signal distributor for Abuja has purchased feeder pillar transmitters, which will be in-

stalled for the entire Abuja and environs to be covered. The same thing applies in Plateau. The signal distributor has to put feeder pillar transmitter in places like Langtang for the entire state to be covered,” Modibo-Kawu explained.

But this challenge is not encountered by customers of GOtv, the country’s leading Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) service. The service already operates on the digital platform and has been rolled out in about 50 cities across 26 states in the country. This was made possible by the fact that at launch, GOtv adopted the most modern digital video broadcast technology, DVB-T2, which is a considerable upgrade on the first generation and now discarded DVB-T systems deployed by the earliest adopters of digital broadcast technology.

The early adoption of DVB-T2 by GOtv effectively puts Nigeria at the head of the queue of digital broadcast technology in Africa.

GOtv has equally been prominent in raising public awareness about the digital migration, most notably through the “Digilevelz Don Land, No Carry Last” campaign and hardware price slashes to broaden access to digital television.

At N400, GOtv continues to give more Nigerians access to digital television at the most affordable rate.

DSO will occur when there is transition from analogue TV to digital terrestrial TV broadcasting. The process came to life in 2006 when member countries of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), in Geneva, Switzerland, reached an agreement to migrate from analogue to digital broadcasting by June 2015, the initial deadline. But Nigeria did not meet the deadline for a number of reasons. Missing the deadline, however, nudged the Federal Government into ramping up its efforts in that direction.

Digital migration is the transmission of digital television signal over the earth

Alhaji Ishaq Modibbo-Kawu, Director-General, National Broadcasting Commission

from masts to home receivers. When the switchover takes place, television viewers will require set-top-boxes (STB) or a digital television set in to receive television signal. An STB is often called a decoder.

By acquiring an STB compatible with DVB-T2, the second-generation broadcast technology, with or without monthly subscription or by a digital television set, a television viewer will be able to receive signal when the DSO takes place.

DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting) is the standard for digital television that has been adopted in most countries in ITU Region 1, where Africa falls.

Among the numerous benefits of digital broadcasting are greatly improved audio-visual quality and availability of

bigger number of channels to viewers, including access to Free-to-Air at the expiration of subscription.

That GOtv operates on the latest technology platform also prevents its signal from deprecating in bad weather.

Equally, the hardware (decoder and antenna) can be self-installed, making the use of an installer not absolutely necessary.

This is in addition to offering top class local and international channels broadcasting content such as news, movies, sports, documentaries, series, children entertainment and education for a maximum of N3, 200 on GOtv MAX. GOtv Lite, at N400 per month for 23 channels, still remains the cheapest DTT price offering on the landscape.

PHOTO NEWS

L-R: Chairman Senate Committee on Land Transport, Senator Gbenga Ashafa; Executive Secretary of Nigerian Shippers Council, Mallam Hassan Bello; Corps Marshal , Federal Road Safety Corps, Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi; Managing Director of Nigerian Inland Waterways Agency, Senator Olorunimbe Mamora; and Board Member of Nigerian Shippers Council, Otunba Seye Oduntan, during the Nigerian Shippers Council’s Night of Appreciation 2018, at Lagos Continental Hotel, VictoriaIsland,Lagos...recently

L-R: External Communications Manager, Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Limited.Tomiwa Akande; Corporate and Compliance Counsel, Abiodun Peters; Legal, Public Affairs and Communications Director, Sade Morgan; Country CSR Manager, Ekuma Eze; and Public Affairs Manager, Ifeoma Okoye, at the 2018 SERAS Awards in Lagos, where NBC was recognised as the ‘Best Company in Gender Equality andWomen Empowerment

L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Steve Ayorinde; Lagos State CommisL-R: Registrar, Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), Tony Fadaka; President of NIM (Chartered), Prof. Olu- sioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Kehinde Bamigbetan; Head of Media, Digital, PR & Sponsorkunle Iyanda; and a fellow of the Institute, Chief Olabode Afolayan, during the Continuing Learning and Devel- ship, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Wasiu Abiola; Brand Manager, Star Lager Beer, Onyebuchi Nwangwu; and Brand PR/Internal Communications & Sponsorships Manager, Sandra Amachree, at the 2018 One opment Programme Forum organised by NIM in Abuja, yesterday Photo:Julius Atoi Lagos Fiesta press briefing in Lagos... recently

38

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t DECEMBER 8, 2018

AUTO JAC Motors, Rosabon Roll out Easy Vehicle Finance Scheme

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L-R: JAC Assembly Expert, Jack Huang; JAC Country Heavy-duty Sales Manager, Yu Dekun; Group Executive Director Lanre Shittu Motors, Taiwo Shittu; Head Plant and Logistic, Lanre Shittu Motors, Ejaz Mughal; and Head, HR and Admin, Lanre Shittu Motors, Udoh Anietie Philip, at the new JAC Trucks assembly plant in Lagos… recently

JAC Trucks Assembly Plant in Lagos to Produce 1,500 Units Annually Stories by Bennett Oghifo

A

new plant for the assembling of medium and heavy JAC Trucks has been built and ready for use on the premises of Lanre Shittu Motors at the Coker Express axis of the Oshodi-Mile 2 stretch of the road.

The compact but highly automated assembly plant was thrown open, recently, for auto journalists to see by the Group Executive Director of Lanre Shittu Motors Nigeria Limited, Mr. Taiwo Shittu, who was accompanied by Dekun Shaun Yu, Sales Manager, Medium and Heavy Trucks Department of JAC Interna-

tional Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Co. Ltd, China.

Shittu described the facility as the “most standard assembly plant for trucks in Nigeria,” adding that it was equipped by a reputable company in German.

The technicians in the plant, who are mainly Nigerians, do all the assembling in the presence of JAC Engineers, whose presence is to ensure that standards are met.

Shittu said they do not compromise on standards and that they are able to do this because of the insistence of JAC on quality, which gives them support, adding that they also draw on their experience of over 38 years in the truck business.

He said the company trains techni-

cians, who either work for them or for those companies that buy their trucks. “We help to determine what these companies pay the technicians because we know their worth.”

The company is working on another plant at Makun on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway where it would assemble cars, pickups, and local components like batteries, tyres, among others.

In Port Harcourt, Rivers state, the company has built a facility for sales, service and spares, he said.

The JAC trucks being assembled at the plant are built to suit the Nigerian condition, through their market research, according to Dekun Shaun Yu, Sales Manager, Medium and Heavy Trucks Department of JAC International.

etermined to ensure that more Nigerian drive brand new cars without stress at affordable price to various application.

Elizade Autoland; official distributor for JAC Motors in Nigeria has entered into a partnership with Rosabon Financial service to enable more Nigerians have access to low interest finance for affordable vehicles.

The partnership allows customers to access finance to purchase the latest brands of JAC Motors at discounted price with a reduced interest rate.

Speaking at the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Lagos recently, Managing Director, Elizade Autoland, Demola Ade-Ojo, said the partnership was to enable more Nigerians afford brand new affordable vehicle.

“Our goal is to enable mobility for Nigerians far and wide, hence we are passionate about partnering a financial partner that will assist in bringing this to life. With our partnership, existing and new customers can now have access to low interest finance package to purchase highly durable and stylish JAC Motors range of vehicles.” He said.

On his part, the Managing Director/ CEO, Rosabon Financial Services; Chukwuma Ochonogor explained that the partnership between the two revered indigenous organizations shows great commitment to economic growth and development.

“The partnership between both indigenous brands shows great commitment to economic growth and development by providing fast, easy and reliable funding to the transportation needs of individuals, as well as small and medium sized enterprises, to enable them run effectively as well as expand their businesses whilst creating a viable economy,” he said.

The Elizade Autoland, Rosabon partnership provides the opportunity for customers to walk into Elizade Autoland Showrooms and through its digital platforms or Rosabon financials branch across the country to get immediate finance solutions to purchase any model of JAC Motors brand ranging from – Sedan, SUVs, Pickups, buses and light duty trucks .

JAC is the only Chinese brand with full range of vehicles across all segments in Nigeria. Some of the models include the J4 sedan, S2, S3, S5, S7 (SUVs) as well as T6 pickup, Sunray bus X5 pickup, L40 Truck and the N-Series which can be adopted to various applications.

Infinity Tyres Launches Value Drive 2018

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In the spirit of the Festive Christmas season, Nigeria’s leading tyre, battery, lubricants, solar/renewable energy solutions and premium automobile accessories company, Infinity Group is offering its customers, a chance to experience Infinity’s quality automobile aftermarket products and get amazing gifts nationwide with the annual Infinity “Value Drive 2018”. In a bid to thank its customers, the 16th edition of the Value Drive 2018 will commence on 1st December and end on 31st December, 2018.

Infinity Tyres Limited is the authorized importer and marketer of premium tyre brands such as Pirelli, Goodyear, Infinity, Ceat, Eternity, Riken, Battery brands such as Exide, Infinity and Eternity, Global Lubricant Brand, Motul, Genuine Filters from Filtron, Eastman Brand of Renewable Energy Solutions as well as Eternity standby and traction battery range.

“Infinity Value Drive 2018” guarantees customers a chance to win amazing gifts instantly on purchase of products from Infinity sales and service outlets and Infinity Express stores. Gifts include Premium quality compressed T-shirts, Motul Lubricants and Brake Fluid, Infinity coolant & Battery Terminals.

Based on the value of the purchase, customers can win up to an Inverter and Battery as well.

The Management of Infinity Tyres Group gratefully acknowledges the patronage of its customers across

Nigeria. This group is of the firm belief that due to the unstinted support & loyalty of its customers & stakeholders, this has been most exciting, awaited and successful promotion, and has become a tradition for the company. The management of Infinity Tyres Group is indebted to its customers and therefore wishes to delight its customers and encourages them to avail the benefits of “Infinity Value Drive 2018” In his remarks, Mr. BabatundeAjayi, Branch Head of Infinity Tyres Limited, Victoria Island Branch, on behalf of the Infinity Management, described the “Value Drive 2018” as a unique platform through which the company shows appreciation to its loyal customers. He stated that the customers’ trust in quality products and superior service quality of the Group has been the singular reason for the success and consistent growth of Infinity Tyres. He further said that the Nigerian market, though competitive is highly inclined in favour of companies that deliver products and services of highest quality.

Mrs. Moyo Ekiran, Branch Head of the Infinity Tyres Limited, Ikeja Branch, took the opportunity to thank customers all over Nigeria for their patronage.

She said that the management of Infinity Tyres is aware that many Nigerians travel during the festive season. She wished them safe journey and a very enjoyable festive season with lots of good wishes for 2019.

L-R: Vikas Pandotra, Parminder Singh, Sanjay Singh, Moyo Ekiran, Vineet Mathur, Babatunde Ajayi, Jittu Singh, Ajoke Ajose, all of Infinity Tyres, at the introduction of Value Drive 2018

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER t DECEMBER 8, 2018

39

AUTO

Mercedes-Benz Grows Worldwide Sales in November Stories by Bennett Oghifo

in November (+1.5%) and 862,419 in the first eleven months (+7.5%). In China, the biggest sales market, 52,151 Mercedes-Benz passenger cars were sold last month(+2.6%).IntheperiodofJanuarytoNovember, Mercedes-Benz achieved growth of +11.7% and sold 603,089 units. This November, together with the models delivered by the smart brand, the car division of Daimler AG became the first premium automobile manufacturer to pass the milestone of 600,000 vehicles delivered in China within one year.

Mercedes-Benz achieved further sales records in November in the markets of South Korea, India, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam.

In the NAFTAregion, Mercedes-Benz sold a total of 35,842 vehicles in November (-1.8%). In the first eleven months of this year, 340,564 Mercedes-Benz passenger cars were handed over to customers in that region (-5.4%). In the United States, a total of 31,022 customers were delighted to receive their new model with the star last month, an increase of 0.6%. This means that a total of 283,943 vehicles were delivered in the United States in November (-6.0%). In Mexico, Mercedes-Benz set a new sales record in the first eleven months of the year.

M

ercedes-Benz has once again set a new sales record towards the end of this year despite a volatile market environment: 198,545vehicleswiththethreepointed star were delivered to customers all over the world last month. Under ongoing challenging conditions, Mercedes-Benz sold more units than ever before in a November (+1.5%). Further progress with vehicle availability, particularly in some international markets, had a positiveimpactonsalesdevelopmentinthethreecore regions.Inthefirstelevenmonthsoftheyear,2,103,653 Mercedes-Benz passenger cars were handed over to customers, which is slightly above the high level of the prior-year period (+0.4%). Last month, the brand with the star maintained its market leadership in the premium segment in markets including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Portugal, South Korea, Japan, Australia and the USA. “With more than 198,000 vehicles delivered worldwide, Mercedes-Benz has achieved its best-ever November sales. In a challenging market environment, we’ve been able to increase unit sales slightly also since the beginning of the year,” said Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG responsible for Mercedes-Benz Cars Marketing and Sales. “In China, we have delivered more than 600,000 Mercedes-Benz and smart vehicles since the beginning of this year. We are particularly pleased to be the first premium carmaker to achieve this sales milestone in China within one year.”

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon Mercedes-Benz unit sales by region and market In Europe, Mercedes-Benz sold a total of 82,007 vehicles in November, an increase of 2.6% and a new record. In the first eleven months of the year, 850,957 units were sold (-3.3%). The development in Germany was particularly pleasing. Mercedes-Benz sold 29,188 passenger cars with the three-pointed star in its domestic market last month, another double-

digit increase of +12.5%. Once again, the newA-Class was very popular in Germany: sales of the compact car doubled compared to last year’s November. In France, Switzerland, Poland, Denmark, Portugal and Hungary, more cars with the three-pointed star were sold last month than in any November before.

Mercedes-Benz set new records in theAsia-Pacific region: 75,392 vehicles were hand over to customers

Mercedes-Benz unit sales by model Demand for the E-Class Saloon and Estate was higher last month than ever before in a November.

More than 31,000 units of these two models were sold worldwide, an increase of about 6.2%. The long-wheelbase version of the E-Class Saloon was particularly popular in the Chinese market, posting double-digitgrowthinNovemberandthusachieving a new sales record.

Hyundai Free Service Camp Gets Underway

Kia Offers High Discounts Ahead of Festive Season

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ia Motors Nigeria has unveiled an innovative program tagged ‘Service Carnival’ to reward customers in this yuletide season for their loyalty over the year.

Under this initiative, Kia is offering discounted servicing to all models with free service checkups and 10% discount on parts to the customers between November 27 and December 18. Car owners can now avail professional service and repairs for as low as N9,999.

Kia has been steadfastly pursuing a customerfirst strategy of service based on trust, advanced technology, and exceptional service at an affordable price. The service carnival is poised to offer customers discounted servicing designed after its service philosophy called, ‘Promise to Care.’

In furtherance of making the campaign truly rewarding, Kia customers can also avail attractive discounts on spare parts, labour, and other free value-added services during the special program.

“With the introduction of ‘Service Carnival’, we are making the exceptional service and car repairs more affordable to all with a discounted

Free routine service check-up and maintenance for Hyundai vehicles is currently underway at the Hyundai Motors Nigeria Limited (HMNL) service outlets nationwide, the dealership has announced.

The planned vehicle repairs scheme which is themed ‘Before Service Free Check-up Camp’ begins Monday, 10 December 2018 through Sunday, 20 January 2019.

Announcing the incentive in Lagos, HMNL Service Manager Srinivas Jayaram said the free service module will offer a comprehensive 25-point check-up spots, which will include a thorough examination of the engine, brakes, suspension and air-conditional system among others.

He said the dealership understands the evolving needs and preferences of Hyundai customers, pledging “We won’t relent

until we have made ownership of Hyundai vehicles a remarkable experience.”

The objective of the campaign according to him is to provide the best of products and services while also availing customers’ an unprecedented value-added experience.

An absolutely maintenance exercise, ‘Before Service Free Check-up Camp’ is an initiative of Hyundai Motors Nigeria, uniquely targeted at helping customers rediscover the value of their cars and appreciate the commitment of Stallion Hyundai Motors Nigeria dealership to the brand.

Also as part of the campaign, customers would be trained on basic ways to maintain their vehicles to avoid needless downtime and breakdowns.

The exercise will include routine vehicle inspection, tips on managing emergency situations as well as safe driving tips, Mr. Jayaram said.

K

How To Prevent Dangers in your Tyres

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fyourunacheckonyoutyrepressuresnow with a quality tyre pressure gauge (not the abused/ overused road side vulcanizers gauge), you will appreciate why the above alarm is sounded. Such a check may reveal that at least one of your tyres is incorrectly inflated. Very few vehicles, if any, will pass this test.

IncorrecttyrepressureistheNo.1causeoftyreblowouts, sudden tyre failures and premature tyre wear.

Incorrecttyrepressureisaninvitationtodisastereven if the tyres are brand new! It is a time bomb waiting for the right time to explode. The implication is that each time such a vehicle is driving; the occupants are facing grave danger without being aware of it. As the hours count down to this year’s festivities which as usual has witnessed increased motorization in keeping with our penchant for travels, I wish to run my last piece on tyres for 2017 hoping the few tips contained in this piece will help us make the right safetychoicesaheadofthecrossoverinto2018bythe merciesoftheAlmightyGod.Ihumblyurgeyounot to ignore the tips as it reminds me of a recall a recent crash caused by tyre blowout which claimed the life of an officer who was part of a convoy conveying the corpse of his late father.

Types of incorrect tyre inflation Therearetwotypesofincorrecttyrepressure.These are over inflation and under inflation. Let us take a look at how they can affect your tyres and cause disasterandwhatcouldbedonetomaintainaproper pressure for your tyres and so prevent or drastically

SAFE DRIVING with

This reduces traction and can easily lead to loss of control when one is on high speed, wet surface, cornering or breaking. Each of these conditions can easily lead to a crash and disaster.

Jonas Agwu amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa (Corps Commander) Corps Public Education Officer Federal Road Safety Corps. + 2348033026491

Prevention There are two very effective options to prevention or drastic reduction of blowouts and other form of tyre failures.

Option1:ownaqualitytyrepressuregauge.Asalready pointed out, incorrect tyre pressure is the major cause of blowouts and sudden tyre failure. So, correct tyre pressure is a must for any safety conscious motorist.

But the big question is, how do you ensure that what the vulcanizer pumped into your tyre is the correct pressure? Only a quality tyre pressure gauge will tell you.Aqualitygaugewillalsoenableyoutogaugeyour tyres at the right time and to ensure that all the tyres maintain correct pressure before the vehicle is driven outfortheday.Thisisparticularlyimportantifyouare inthetransportbusinessorifyouaretravelling.Never rely on the road side vulcanizers’ gauge. Most of their gauges are outright inferior, have been over used or abusedovertimeandmayhaveimpropermeasuring units.Infairnesstothevulcanizers,however,theymay notbeawareoftheseshortcomingswiththeirgauges.

Option2: installahighprofileautomatictyremonitors.

This is a state of the art device that use sensors and a wireless monitor to monitor your tyres on a 24hours basis. It alerts the driver well in advance about an impending tyre blowout or failure. It pinpoints the exact tyre so that the driver will take appropriate measure to deal with the situation. It also effectively takes care

minimize blowout and other forms of tyre failures.

Blowouts; under-inflation is the cause Under-inflation is the major cause of tyre blowouts.

Whenatyreisunderinflated,itincreaseswhatisknown as the ROLLING RESISTANCE (RR) as the vehicles move. RR generates a tremendous amount of heat that could make your tyre explode like a bomb. Such an explosion (blowout) will destabilize the balance leading to a crash and disaster.

Other types of tyre failures; over inflation is the cause When over inflated, a tyre becomes stiff. This can make it puncture easily. The internal materials used in makingthetyrearealsosubjectedtounduestrain.This would make them snap, leading to bulges or swells.

As the tyre hits a pot hole or bumps, it can easily cut and have a sudden deflation that could cause a crash.

Over-inflation also leads to partial contact of the tyres with road surface.

price starting from N9,999 and 10% discount on spare parts.

Featuring other value-added services like free car inspection amongst others, ‘Service Carnival’ will provide customers an exclusive discount on repairs and parts” said, Sanjay Tatpati, Chief Operating Officer, Kia Motors Nigeria.

Being a customer-centric brand, Kia has always laid a strong emphasis on unique service initiatives. Customers around the country will be able to experience Kia’s personable and considerate service through the ‘Service Carnival’ campaign at all Kia service network points.

“The cost of vehicle ownership is always at the heart of Kia’s strategic focus. Irrespective of whether our customers use their vehicles for business or private purposes, we believe that our after-sales service must be both cost-conscious and confidence inspiring. With the introduction of the ‘Service Carnival’, customers will have a delightful car ownership experience akin to great moments anytime they are on the road this yuletide season” said Jimoh Olawale, Marketing Manager, Kia Motors Nigeria. of premature tyre wear.

What is your vehicle’s correct tyre pressure?

By the end of the driver’s door of your vehicle, or in the vehicles’ manual, you will see specification that shows size of tyre for your vehicle and the inflation pressure for the tyre in psi (pounds per square inch) religiously stick to that specification. Do not allow anyone(especiallythevulcanizer)tellyouotherwise unlessyouwanttogamblewithyourlife.Itisinstructive to note here that it is not the tyre manufacturer that determines the pressure for your tyre, but the vehicle manufacturer. It is the vehicle manufacturer that specifies the size of tyres and the pressure to be given the tyre.

He has taken into consideration the weight, speed, numberofpassenger,artificialinflationbytheheatand other factors to determine what the proper inflation pressure should be. The specification you see on the tyres are to enable you match the specification of the vehicles’ manufacturer. In this light, it is equally dangerous to use tyre sizes different from what the vehicles manufacturer specified for the vehicle.

Gauge and pump tyres at the right time The right time to gauge /pump is when the tyres are cold. Mornings are most ideal. Before you drive out, gauge the tyres and if there is need to pump, slowly drive to the nearest vulcanizer. If you are the type that leaves home very early, weekends maybe the most convenient time for you. When hot, the tyre pressure increases. Any action (gauge, pump) you take when the tyres are hot will be misleading and could be fatal.

Onfortunately,mostpeoplegaugeandpumptyres when the tyres are hot. Never do so. If tyres are hot, leave them for about 3hours to cool down.

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Signed:

Senator Ibikunle Amosun CON, FCA Governor, Ogun State

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SHOWBIZFLAIR

Rihanna Glees with Steamy Lingerie Brand EMEKA ROLLAS Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Live Your Life to Impress Anybody But God pg. 48

UBI FRANKLIN Destination is More Important than Where You Started pg. 50

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SHOWBIZFLAIR

Rihanna Glees with Steamy Lingerie Brand Pop star Rihanna proved to be her own best advert on Wednesday, sharing a steamy picture of hers in blue lingerie as she models her new underwear brand to the world, writes Ferdinand Ekechukwu

G

ive it to Robyn ‘Rihanna’ Fenty. The Barbadian descent does things her way.

From the popR&B singles of her 2005 debut album, Music of the Sun, to the give-no-fucks anthems of 2016’s Anti, she’s an artiste who defies expectations.

Now she’s spent the past few weeks promoting her holiday collection, “Savage x Fenty Lingerie

by Rihanna.” And she proved to be her own best advert on Wednesday, sharing a steamy picture of hers in blue lingerie as she models her new underwear brand. The 30-year-old posed up a storm while ensuring her ample cleavage commanded attention. Words on her Instagram page say the new “Savage x Fenty” offerings arrived December 5, including a blue lace body, “NAUGHTY” band pants, and a flower-embroidered set.

“Savage X is about respect. Do what you do. Be unapologetically you. Embrace individuality. My vision for Savage X has always been inclusivity, has always been having women feel confident and expressing themselves through a little lace, a little corsetry, a little T-Shirt bra,” the feisty businesswoman scripted on her brand domain page.

Known for reinventing her style and image, Rihanna’s music and fashion sense are widely noted. In 2009, New York magazine described Rihanna’s early look as that of “a cookie-cutter teen queen”, noting she has the ability “to shift looks dramatically and with such ease”.

The nine-time Grammy award winner had earlier been in the news for some damned good reasons. Just a few days ago, the superstar singer put up her recently acquired Hollywood Hills Home back for sale at $7.495 million just a little over six months after the Los Angeles mansion was busted into by a crazy stalker who hung around inside the lavish house for 12 hours, lounging and ‘just wanted to have sex with the singer, he told police after being taken into custody. The property she bought about a year and six months ago for $6.8 million.

In her career, she’s built meticulous control over her voice and image: After rising to fame as a Roc-a-Fella signee, Rihanna used her third album, 2007’s Good Girl Gone Bad, to flip the staid dancehall-meets-pop sound of her first LPs and introduce the world to a sexier, darker sound.

It immediately paid off in her sultry, hip-hop-infused global hit “Umbrella” with mentor Jay-Z. Around the time of the release of her second studio album, A Girl like Me (2006), many critics felt that Rihanna’s style, sound, and musical

Rihanna

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SHOWBIZFLAIR Rihanna Glees with Steamy Lingerie Brand

Described as one of the sexiest women of her generation, she had revealed that being a sex symbol was not a priority and that “it’s definitely flattering, but also uncomfortable.” Rihanna’s body-toning exercise routine includes workouts on a Pilates-inspired technique on a machine called the Supraformer material were too similar to those of Beyoncé. Described as one of the sexiest women of her generation, she had revealed that being a sex symbol was not a priority and that “it’s definitely flattering, but also uncomfortable.” Rihanna’s bodytoning exercise routine includes workouts on a Pilates-inspired technique on a machine called the Supraformer.

Her appearance has landed her on the cover of magazines such as Maxim, FHM, Rolling Stone and in December 2012, Rihanna became the first woman to be featured on the cover of GQ magazine’s “Men of the Year” issue. With the release of her third studio album “Good Girl Gone Bad” (2007), Rihanna developed a public image as a sex symbol and incorporated more elements of dance-pop into her music.

It became a major breakthrough in her career and earned Rihanna her first Grammy Award at the 2008 ceremony.

Well known for having a wide collection of small tattoos around her body, Some of them refer to Egyptian antiquity, a subject of a

particular interest of the songwriter, dancer and actress, Rihanna is recognised internationally as a pop and fashion icon, particularly since her third studio album redefined her persona.

Recognised as a pop icon, Rihanna is one of the best-selling artistes of all time, with over 280 million records sold worldwide.

Many of her songs rank among the world’s best-selling singles of all time, including the singles “Umbrella”, “Take a Bow”, “Disturbia”, “Only Girl (In the World)”, “S&M”, “We Found Love”, “Diamonds”, “Stay” and “Work”, as well as her collaborations “Live Your Life” with T.I., “Love the Way You Lie” and “The Monster”, both with Eminem.

Rihanna’s music has incorporated a wide range of genres including, pop, R&B, reggae, dubstep, hip hop and EDM. With its provocative subject matter and lyrics, her musical career has been an experiment with new musical ideas and stated that she wanted to make music that could be heard in parts of the world “that I’d never been to”.

Rihanna

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SHOWBIZFLAIR EMEKA ROLLAS

Don’t Live Your Life to Impress Anybody But God Emeka Rollas is one of the leading names in Nollywood. He has moved from being an actor to a producer, director and a lot more. Now, he holds a big spot, as the President of Actors Guild of Nigeria and has a year of good works to show for it. He tells Tosin Clegg what they are doing to provide medical support to veteran actors, among others How I Became an Actor n 1997, I came in contact with a Lady called Nonye Okechukwu. Then she was a costumier in Onitsha and she took me to an audition at Mike Ori Ihe Dim Ma of blessed memory and Mr. Felix Okolo a Movie Director from Onitsha cast me in my first movie, Hilda De Mighty Woman. It was produced by Sympathy Unadike and shot in Lagos.

I

The Guild has lost prominent veteran actors to serious illnesses due to certain medical conditions which could have been averted if there was a medium or platform set aside to harness the strength of the association to fund medical treatment of our own or a source of funding by philanthropists or Nigerians to help rescue their legends

I have featured in many films such as Narrow Escape, Hilda De Mighty Woman, My Cross, Not my wealth, Jesus Will Come, Anointed, Insiders, Challenge, Prodigal Son, Holy Ghost Fire, Naomi, Douglas My Love, House Party, Oh Woman, House on Fire, Heart Attack, Civil War, Beyond Belief, Women of Substance, Widow, My faithful friend, Inheritance, Buried Emotions, Sleeping with the Enemy, Igede, Last Warning, Search, Internal Heat, Scorned, Squad Gang 5, Engagement, Patience, Oath Brothers, Helpless Billionaire, just to mention the ones I can remember.

Aside movies, I’m also into other things I’m the Managing Director of Rolling Pictures Ltd and Booben Rolling Pictures Uganda Ltd, a movie production company that also offers public relations/advertising consultancy to clients in the private and public sectors of the economy.

Prior to this position, I rose through the ranks to become a renowned actor, producer and movie director in the Nigerian movie industry, where I spent a major part of my adulthood. I held several positions within the Actors Guild of Nigeria and Nollywood in general. I became President at the time God wanted it, after contesting for 12 years. It’s been tough because the Guild has been down for five years with a leadership crisis.

But after one year in office, we have been able to stabilise the Guild. At least, all the state chapters in Nigeria have one united Guild.

Before we were saddled with the responsibility of governance, the Guild was in total disarray As we assumed office, we didn’t waste time; we hit the ground running. In the eight months of our administration, we produced the first ever AGN mobile application with payment gateway for dues and new members registration.

We introduced the group accident insurance scheme, and over two thousand members have enrolled.

The Guild has challenges at the moment And that’s because members were not properly taken care of before now. We are still resetting the foundation of the Guild and as regards the issue of ailing actors. We just set up the Actors Guild of Nigeria Foundation and Mr. Segun Arinze is the chairman of the fundraising event for the foundation coming up soon.

A lot is going into supporting old actors Veterans, who have contributed to the development of the industry, most times do not have

Just look at the case of Uncle Victor Olaotan, a.k.a Fred Ade-Williams who was involved in an accident over a year ago. Now his pictures are already online for help. How can this be?

And how can we help many others who have laboured for various stations to make money globally? I advise all actors to join the union so we can fight our collective rights. Recently, we just hosted Mr. Andrew Proger, Chief Executive Officer of British Equity Collecting Society and we discussed all of these.

Rollas

anything to fall back on after so many years of service. Some move on to other businesses or sectors while the faces of others varnish with time.

In the recent past, the Guild has lost prominent veteran actors to serious illnesses due to certain medical conditions which could have been averted if there was a medium or platform set aside to harness the strength of the association to fund medical treatment of our own or a source of funding by philanthropists or Nigerians to help rescue their legends. Actors like Enebeli Elebuwa, Justus Esiri, Arshely Nwosu, Dave

lhesie, Sam Loco Efe, Muna Obiekwe, Peter Bunor, Prince James Uche, and a host of others have been lost due to certain medical conditions.

Their souls are resting in the bosom of the Lord.

We are working on better wages for actors As affiliates of Federation of International Actors (FIA), we are working assiduously to stem the problem of low wages for actors in Nigeria.A committee is already working on actors wages.

There is dignity in our job here in Nigeria. The Pay TV stations are taking actors for granted.

Emeka Rollas is a gentleman And I live with a philosophy of ‘don’t live your life to impress anybody but God’. I was born on 19th may 1969 to the Ejezie family of Afam Eziani Ihiala in Anambra State. Started my primary education at Holy Trinity Primary School, Kano in 1974 and later went to a seminary school in pursuance of becoming a Priest of the Catholic Church. My love for the Arts made me join a young theatre group in those days called ‘Resident Theatre Group’, led by Emmanuel Emeka Eni. I later went to Federal Polytechnic Oko in Anambra State where I graduated in Mass Communication with upper credit in 1993.

Married to Ngozi Chinasaokwu and we are blessed with seven wonderful kids Blossom, Onyx, Amanda, Emmanuel, Fedora, Victor and Humphrey.

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SHOWBIZFLAIR

Tosin Clegg 07062816737 e-mail: tosinclegg@hotmail.com

MY STORY

Gists CECE WINANS, CHIOMA JESUS, FRANK EDWARDS THRILL FANS AT UNUSUAL PRAISE 2018 Unusual Praise 2018 is an annual Catholic gospel concert widely regarded as one of the biggest and most anticipated praise concerts in Nigeria.

This year’s concert had American gospel powerhouse, CeCe Winans lead dozens of gospel ministers from Nigeria and beyond. It attracted attendance from far and near, including worshippers from other denominations, faiths and countries.

It was held at the Catholic Church of Divine Mercy in Lagos and was indeed a night of soul-lifting worship and unusual praise.

The congregation was treated to an unforgettable experience, marked by spiritual connection, glorious ambience and a spiritfilled atmosphere of blessings.

Twelve-time Grammy Awardwinning singer Cece Winans led other soul lifting ministers like Joe Praise, Beejay Sax, Tim Godfrey, Mahalia Buchanan, Chioma Jesus, Bukola Bekes, Panam Percy Paul, Midnight Crew, Frank Edwards, Mercy Chinwo, Preye Odede and a host of other anointed ministers in an incredible night of praise and worship where Jesus is the central theme.

AISHA ODEY

Mediocrity is Celebrated in Nigeria’s Music Industry Aisha Odey is an artiste manager and PR Consultant who helps talents grow. Over the years, she has carved a niche for herself in the industry, working with Reminisce, Minjin, MC Galaxy, Toby Grey, Teddy A and a host of others. She discusses with Tosin Clegg her struggle to prevent artistes from sounding alike

OMONI OBOLI, UCHE JUMBO, UBI FRANKLIN STORM GRANDLUX LOUNGE OPENING Industry personalities, influencers, and other guests came through for the opening of the GrandLux Café, located in the heart of Lekki.

The event, which was a night of fun, networking and merriment, had guests treated to exquisite meals and live cooking from top-notch chefs who delightfully treated guests taste buds to great delicacies in local and continental standards.

One of the many things that make the lounge stand out is the ambiance, luxurious decor, great space and ability to accommodate all classes of occasions, including corporate events, birthdays and private dining.

All the guests certainly had a charm of happiness on them with great compliments, as many look forward to long-term business, flourishing on all frontiers with an admirable level of world-class service rendered so far.

SPUNKIES EMERGES WINNER OF FACE OF IMAGES 2018 Season Two of Face of Images Housemates TV reality show ended with Ologunwa Oyinkansola (Spunkies) emerging as the winner, going home with cash prize of N5 million and a car. Spunkies had this to say after winning: “Scaling through the audition process and the camping was an amazing experience for me. I got to meet different kinds of people with different characters in the house and I had the opportunity to meet many celebrities who served as motivation and encouragement. I think I am so lucky to be crowned the winner, as I have met different talented housemates.”

Face of Images is a platform that showcases the lifestyle of talented Nigerian

youths, and the opportunity to project their talents and creativity in areas of entertainment to the world.

The show, which was aired on TV stations from October to November, had 48 contestants live in an isolated house for 30 days to compete in tasks revolving around their talents.

Meanwhile, the organisers, twin brothers, Emmanuel and Joseph Etim said Nigeria needs a new breed of talent in the creative industry, hence the need to project talents via the reality show.

According to one of the organisers, “At our reality show we camp talents and showcase them, giving them a face of TV to emerge as celebrities. That’s the essence of the event for us.”

H

ow did your journey into Music begin?

My journey into the music business started in 2008 but it was actually a diversion from my initial goal of being a career dancer. It happened that I had been to a couple of music video auditions and was turned down because of the uniqueness of my skin and how small minded people react to what they don’t understand. Thankfully, I saw beyond my dancing, an ambitious and passionate lover of great music. This was a cue to put aside my love for dancing as a profession.

How has it been, working with all these artistes?

I met Reminisce that same year and we bonded, he invited me to his video shoot (Kako bi Chicken) and also assigned me the role of selecting the vixens for the shoot. In the course of 10 years, I have had the opportunity to work with YQ, TinnyEntertainment, Pepenazi, Bukky Wright, Oneplus (sound engineer) Oludare (director), among others. I have activated engagements for Bovi, Ycee, Reekado Banks, Lil Kesh, Runtown, 9ice, Falz, Francis Odega, BOJ and some pro bono for budding artistes. I have also done media strategies for BEZ & Kayswitch. Currently, I’m the Artiste Manager to McGalaxy, Minjin & Toby Grey, and Public Relations Manager to Teddy-A.

What’s the most challenging thing about managing?

The most difficult thing about managing talents in Nigeria is that mediocrity is widely celebrated and the talented ones are ignored or not accorded befitting audience. If there’s no result or encouragement for these talents, it also affects their performance and there’s no impetus to even be a better version of themselves.

Rather, they are pressured to sound like the next artiste making waves at the moment, sacrificing their authenticity for fame they may or may not get. So, a talent manager who can’t properly advice and influence the artiste would perceive him/herself as incompetent, if they give in to the whims of the panicked artiste.

How do you perceive the state of music business in Nigeria?

The music business in Nigeria is steadily improving each day and becoming the best inAfrica but with more genuine support of each other, we will grow even bigger, rather than compete for the top alone. Important values of love, fairness and kinship need to be promoted in the industry, rather than hoarding opportunities from underground talents.

What are the costly mistakes artistes make?

The most costly mistake artistes make is when they get carried by the moment of grace and limelight; when they throw humility outside the window for shiny new fame, forgetting that more work is needed to maintain that status. Too easily, a new talent emerges every day and in little time, they fade into insignificance while their managers, promoters with better insight wax on stronger.

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SHOWBIZFLAIR UBI FRANKLIN

Destination is More Important than Where You Started Ubi Franklin has been in the entertainment and showbiz sphere for quite a while.

He started Triple MG a few years ago with Iyanya, Tekno, Emma Nyra and a host of others and grew the company to one of the strongest music labels in the country. He recently started Instant Group with interest in laundry, transportation, housing and a lot more. Ubi shares his journey into music and business with Tosin Clegg Ubi is a hustler ’m an entrepreneur and I’m anything good, anything positive. One thing about speed is that there are some people who don’t care about the kind of car they drive; they believe they can catch up with a Lamborgni or with any fast car. No matter how fast it is, we are going to the same destination and I don’t think a Lamborgni can drive to an ocean and cross over but I believe we would all get to that point where we are going to stop. So, the most important thing is that where you are coming from doesn’t matter. When I have an opportunity I work around it.

and I injected a few cash into it. I’m trying to restructure it and help a lot of businesses in Africa to grow.

Imagine you owning 10 per cent in several businesses.

I

I have mentored a few people Mentorship is not only about people wanting to be mentored.

They need to see that what you are saying is actually working. One of my good friends, Ray Ray Obaese, from the time we met, had always said to me that everything I told him changed his business. At least, stuffs like that keep me very happy.

I don’t always think I’m famous I prefer saying I’m known. When you know me, it’s personal but when you are famous, you are just there and making money. I prefer making impact in people directly and when people reach out to me, I try as much as possible to respond.

Recently, I started paying school fees for kids, and the reason is because I know how it feels not to have school fees. Now, I’m trying to launch my foundation, Ubi Franklin Foundation, to try and send a lot of kids to school. For me, I help who I can help and I’m not a difficult person. If it’s a brilliant message, then I reply but there are some people who say so many things I don’t subscribe to. Fame and wealth are about how you use them and I am still learning to build trust. I prefer being known than being famous.

The proper picture of where I’m going to hasn’t been painted If you remember, we used to have those phones that capture images which turn out blurry. That’s what you are seeing now about me, but phones are getting better. The way they are getting better with everything falling in place is the way I am going. So, my pictures would be clearer and when I reach that point, everyone would start seeing things clearer. Before I become 50 years old, I want to be doing about a N100 billion turn-over yearly

by God’s grace, while targeting becoming a Billionaire in dollars.

I have been in the music industry for a long time What I realised is that we invest in people and after a short period of time they would turn their backs on you. Then I asked myself, ‘what investment would I make that would make me have full control and if it is failing, I would always fix them.’

So, first, I said let me own a restaurant and we have been doing well with this. Then, I thought about a few other ideas, having travelled around the world and one of them was to start a laundry platform where other laundries would sign up and I would help them generate customers that would come on the platform and buy their services. I also thought about it that whenever I travel, I hate to stay in hotels. I said to myself, ‘you know what, why not start Instant Apartments.’

So far, it’s been doing well. I also thought about transportation, then, I started, Instant Rides. I believe that there is always a space for everyone. But you know, for me, I don’t do something because I believe there is competition. I do it because I have a focus. It’s like when you are driving and you are on the phone, your concentration is divided. But when you are focused, you would see when a driver is trying to be funny on the road, and all that comes while driving. But when you are on the phone, you are concentrating on someone else environment; that’s why in most

People always say to me one day you would be a Pastor I grew up in a home where we do morning prayers and devotions and preach. I have gotten used to that.

So, when social media came, it was an opportunity for me to share my devotion not only with the people in my home but on social media also. Right now, I have over 458,000 followers and if I can have 5000 every day, I believe that somebody would be blessed. Anytime I put something on social media about Christ, someone would say this is for me. So, I’m using my social media to help a lot of people because so many people are actually depressed.

cases, people have crashes, because they have left where they are and forgotten they are driving. Right now, I am that driver that isn’t on the phone. So, I would keep driving and stay focused, regardless of what’s around me.

Helping people with start-up money

It’s been difficult for a lot of people to get N50,000 to start up a business. Then, I told myself, ‘let me see if I can start helping people.’

But I did one last year and I found out a lot of people didn’t need money to do business; they just needed money to flex and live a life.

I only picked out a few ones that I felt their businesses were good

Structure and delegation keep my business going When you delegate to the right people you get good feedback. So for me, structure is very important.

In everything you do, you have to have structure first and when you do that every other thing will follow. Money also flows through structure.

Fatherhood is beautiful I love it and I have two kids, who are the most interesting people in my life. Fatherhood is good and I love it every day.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍśË&#x153; Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

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Fun, Frills and Two Books as Esther Lambo Hits 70 Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2018;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă&#x153;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2014; Ă?Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x153; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17D; Ă&#x2DC;Ă?Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x153; Ă&#x2039;Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă&#x2014;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x2013;Ă?Ă&#x17D; Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Ă&#x;Ă&#x201D;Ă&#x2039; Ă&#x2039;Ă? Ă?Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x2014;Ă?Ă&#x153; Ă?Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2013;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019; Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x201C;Ă?Ă&#x17E;Ă?Ă&#x153;Ë&#x153; Ă&#x153;Ă&#x2122;Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x153; ĂŁĂ&#x201C;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2039;ĂŁĂ&#x2122; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2014;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x2019;Ă&#x2122;Ă?Ă&#x17E;Ă? Ă&#x2019;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2018;Ă&#x2019; Ă&#x2122;Ă?Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC;Ă? Ă?Ă Ă?Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x2014;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x2022; ĂĄĂ&#x201C;Ă?Ă?ËŞĂ? Ă&#x152;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2019;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2039;ĂŁË&#x153; ĂĄĂ&#x153;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x17E;Ă?Ă? Tunde Ipinmisho

F

ormer Minister of Health, Professor Eyitayo Lambo and his wife, Esther, run a home that best exemplifies the Christian standards of a marriage where the husband leads the wife and their children in love and the wife submits totally to the husband. Although they have been married for over 47 years, their home is like that of young teenagers falling in love with each other for the first time.

It is not surprising therefore that the Lambos are leading marriage counselors at the Family Worship Centre, their church in Abuja and they would readily inform you that they derive great pleasure watching marriages grow in form and in content. To them, the only way the society can truly flourish is for the individual homes to be established on a solid foundation of love.

Professor Lambo spares no words in expressing how blessed he feels to have Esther, a doctor of philosophy (PhD) in her own right as his wife and the mother of their four successful children. In Basking in Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Favour, his academic autobiography published in 2014, he says of her: â&#x20AC;&#x153;She has been very supportive of my interests from the beginning of our marriage to date. I would normally consult her to find out her opinion about most of the things that I would like to do and she knows that I value her opinion very much. She has always demonstrated deep understanding of me and my personality â&#x20AC;&#x201C; always focusing more on my strengths than my weaknesses. She has adapted very well to all aspects of my lifestyle she cannot change, and I appreciate that.â&#x20AC;?

Saturday, November 24, 2018 offered a most auspicious opportunity for Lambo and members of his clan (as he often refers to his family) to put on public display that appreciation for the decades of love, care and attention that their matriarch had given them. Mrs. Esther Olufunmilayo Lambo Health Minister, Professor Isaac Adewole (left) conducting the cutting of the birthday cake for Dr (Mrs.) Esther Lambo, assisted by her husband, had turned 70 on September 23, 2018 but Professor Eyitayo Lambo the birthday celebrations had to be put forward because the port, particularly on occasions when the challenges of life almost The masters of ceremony, quite professional in their handling celebrant and her husband were away in the United States and of the show, ensured that there was no dull moment and that the weighed him down in the United Kingdom. r #FJOH B HPPE NPUIFS BOE SPMF NPEFM UP UIFJS iGPVS (PE event moved with the clockwork precision. Former schoolmates As with the other times he had put the Lambo brand on public fearing adult children,â&#x20AC;? particularly when they were in their of Mrs. Lambo at St. Anneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School, Ibadan, were next on stage display, the former Minister did not leave out any detail in the to honour a fellow old girl. The women, who are now successful formative years and he was not always around planning of the birthday event. More than six weeks ahead r "MXBZT VTJOH B iNBHOJGZJOH HMBTTu UP GPDVT PO XIBU TIF mothers and grandmothers, stood out in their colourful head of the day, he had sent out the initial messages to his friends, considered as his strengths and down playing his weaknesses gear as they were joined by Mrs. Lambo to sing their school relations, associates, mentees and other personalities to put them r .BYJNBMMZ DPOUSJCVUJOH UP DSFBUJOH B IPNF FOWJSPONFOU anthem. Led by their President and a former Director in the on notice about the event. The messages were subsequently that made all of them in the family to not just survive but to thrive Ministry of Defence, Mrs. Kemi Williams, the women moved followed by updates at regular intervals. the audience with the wordings of the song. Mrs. Williams, who and flourish as they continue to fulfill Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s purpose for their The ultra-modern new event hall of Chida Hotel, Jabi, Abuja, stressed the godly heritage they took away from St. Anneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s asked lives. was the venue and as early as 9am, personalities had started The book was to have been presented by Lamboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s former the audience to forgive them for their croaky voices with the arriving at the venue for the event slated to commence an hour explanation that they had over the years given some of their once teacher and mentor, Professor Emmanuel Edozien who could later. There was hardly enough space in the hall to accomnot make it to the event but sent a moving and well written sonorous voices to their husbands, children and grand children modate the large number of invitees from the various groups to address, which was eloquently delivered by Lamboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s academic The Lambos are very proud of their church, Family Worship which the Lambo are affiliaed. colleague and close friend at the University of Ibadan, Professor Centre, Abuja. It was not surprising therefore that it was the CoWhen the event was flagged off at exactly 10am, serving and Tunde Adeniran.

Founder and Senior Pastor of the Church, Pastor Sarah Omaku former Ministers were there in enough numbers to hold a mini The book provides details of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s general and specific who was called upon to pray for the celebrant.

After leading the session of the Federal Executive Council, should they have purposes for life, how an individual can plan every area of his or gathering through a session of praise, worship and thanksgivchosen to. Apart from Lambo himself, a prominent member her life as well as how to set both short term and long term goals ing, Omaku told Mrs. Lambo that God was willing to answer of the Obasanjo cabinet, there were three of his successors in and how to achieve them. any prayer she offered on that occasion. She therefore gave her the Federal Ministry of Health, including Professor Onyebuchi Perhaps the most solemn point in the ceremony was when the the microphone and asked her to make whatever request she Chukwu as well as the current Minister, Professor Isaac microphone was passed to Lamboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daughter, Kehinde, who desired from God. Without hesitation, Mrs. Lambo said there Adewole and the Minister of State, Dr. Ehosa Ehanire. Other took the audience through her life threatening experience with was nothing she wanted that God had not given her and rather former Ministers present were Chief Cornelius Adebayo (Coman ailment and how, although some of the doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worst fears asked that the joy, grace and divine favour she and her family munications), Chief Bayo Ojo (Attorney-General), Professor were confirmed, God stepped in and delivered her. Although had enjoyed would be extended to all those who had gathered at Tunde Adeniran (Education), Mr. Solomon Ewuga (FCT) and still recuperating from a major medical procedure, Kehinde had the venue to honour her.

Mrs. Sarah Ochekpe (Water Resources), Dr. Rowland Oritsejafor waived aside all pressures to make the journey home from the To mark the occasion, two books written by the Lambos were (Defence) and a former Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Sunday United Kingdom and share in her motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s joy and have the oppresented. First was Mrs. Lamboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s autobiography â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Shadows Ehindero. Former Federal Capital Territory Commissioner of portunity to share her testimony of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faithfulness and mercy. and Rainbows, a follow up to an earlier one, Estambai, which Police, Mr. Lawrence Alobi, President of the Nigerian Labour Although the Masters of Ceremony may not have taken sides was published in 2002 and which dwelt largely on her childhood Congress (NLC), Comrade Ayuba Wabba and Professor Lovett with Kehinde who insisted she was older than her twin brother years. The book was presented by former Communications Lawson of Zankli Hospital, Abuja were also on hand to honour Taiye, she got the chance to speak before him. So, when Taiye Minister, Chief Cornelius Adebayo. In his review, Dr. Noel the Lambos. had his chance on the podium to render the vote of thanks, he Ihebuzor who supervised Mrs. Lamboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doctoral thesis at the As if taking a cue from their Ministers, staff of the Federal University of Ilorin said although an autobiography was a genre hastened to remind the audience that he emerged first from Ministry of Health also turned up in hordes and across their notorious for falsehoods and self-praise, Mrs. Lamboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book was the womb and so was the more elderly. That drew a loud cadres, so much so that had the event taken place on a working applause from the audience. remarkably a balanced account of a life that God had blessed, day and a health emergency had developed, it would have been Having secured the attention of the audience, Taiye made full of facts and with its ups and downs.

Dr. Ihebuzor noted that difficult to contain it as virtually all who mattered in the Ministry it known that dancing was not one of his favourable hobbies Mrs. Lambo in the book revealed some inconvenient truths. He were out with the Lambos. Members of the Okun Think Thank, but that he had to make some movements to the good music said the desire for the truth ran through the entire book which the research and policy arm of the Okun Developmen Associathat flowed at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, he said resulted in a balance and engaging account, bereft of the tion and of which Lambo is the Convener were led to the event four years ago when Professor Lambo turned 70. Just as he temptations usually associated with biographies. by their Deputy Convener, Major General Julius Oshanupin said that, the band began to dish out irresistible music and Professor Lamboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book Proactive Commitment to Purpose(rtd), a former General Officer Commanding, 3 Armoured Taiye had no choice but sway his frame to the vibrations ful Living: A Personalised Practical Guidebook, written in Division, Nigerian Army. from the music stand. Quickly, his mother joined him, honour of his wife, was also presented to the public on the The event kicked off with the opening remarks of the Chairfollowed by his father. Within minutes, the dance floor was occasion.

The book is the first in the Frank & Rebecca Lambo man of the Day, Chief Bayo Ojo, who said Mrs. Lambo, resplenfilled with dignitaries who danced as if doing so was soon Memorial Series on Purposeful Living. In dedicating the new dent in a blue lace material, had demonstrated that indeed life going to be out of fashion. It was indeed a glorious way for book to his wife, the writer praised her for having spent almost began at 70 and not 40 as is often put in popular parlance. He the audience to share the joy with the Lambos for Mummy 70 per cent of her years on earth with him, as a dependable wife, described the celebrant as a dutiful wife and mother as well as an Lambo who, 56 years ago, according to her bosom friend and partner, friend, confidant, â&#x20AC;&#x153;as well as my very effective Chief of accomplished and distinguished personality in her own right. classmate, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori, immediate past deputy Staff!â&#x20AC;?

He assured Mrs. Lambo, that many good things were still ahead governor of Osun State, had only buttered Cabin biscuits to Professor Lambo also acknowledged her for of her. share with friends on her 14th birthday. r (JWJOH IJN UJNFMZ JOTQJSBUJPO FODPVSBHFNFOU BOE TVQ-

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NEWS

Maritime University, Ogoni Cleanup, Modular ReďŹ neries, Our Achievements in the Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Delta, Says FG EmmanuelAddehinYenagoa

The federal government has listed the take-off of the Maritime University in Delta State, commencement of Ogoni Cleanup project and approval of modular refineries as some of its recent achievements in the region.

It also mentioned the continuation of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and investments in infrastructure and developmental projects in several parts of the in the Niger Delta.

The government noted that the President Muhammadu Buhari administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Niger Delta New Visionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is designed to develop a new and prosperous Niger Delta through its partnerships with states, the private sector and local communities.

A statement by Mr. Arukaino Umukoro,Special Assistant to the President (Communication Projects/Niger Delta), Office of the Vice President, yesterday noted that the projects underscore the federal governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s renewed zeal to right the wrongs of the past in the oil-producing region. â&#x20AC;&#x153;President Muhammadu Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration had approved an increase in the take-off grant for

the Maritime University from the N2bn earlier announced to N5bn,â&#x20AC;? he said.

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), umbrella body of traditional rulers, leaders and stakeholders in the region, had a few days ago in Asaba, bemoaned the alleged abandonment of the Strategic Implementation Work Plan (SIWP) for the development of the oil and gas-rich area.

But the statement also said the training of some Ogoni graduates educated in Environmental Sciences to develop capacity for the Cleanup project and the demonstration of technologies in some of the oil impacted areas in Ogoniland, namely Bodo, K-Dere, B-Dere, Korokoro, Kwawa, Nsisioken were some of the ongoing projects.

Accordingtothefederal government, establishing modular refineries in the Niger Delta region would also promote socio-economic development andprovidejobsforunemployedyouths.

It said that this would sustain peaceful coexistenceintheregionandincreaselocal content, mitigate negative environmental degradationassociatedwithillegalrefinery activities, crude oil theft and pipelines vandalism.

CELEBRATING YOU...

L-R: Principal Partner, JD Capital, John Darlington; mother of the celebrant, Mrs. Margaret Osibamowo; Consultant Physician at St. Nicholas Hospital/celebrant, Dr. Biodun Osibamowo; and his sister, Mrs. Yetunde Akinloye, during Dr. Biodunâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 60th birthday anniversary celebration at the Ikoyi residence of the Darlingtons in Lagos on Friday

Counterinsurgency: NAF Graduates Jonathan, Gana, Others Pay Tribute as Dicksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mother Begins Journey Home 769 UK-trained Special Forces Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

tion of 769 NAF personnel drawn from the regiment, air police and Determined to rout terrorist intelligence specialties, was indeed group, Boko Haram in the a laudable achievement which North-east, the Nigerian Air Force would immensely contribute to yesterday graduated 769 special the fight against insurgency and forces trained in partnership with the other forms of criminality whilst British Military Advisory Training also enhancing the execution of the Team (BMATT).

NAF Base Defence Architecture.

The graduands bring to 2, 351  The CAS added that since special forces trained under the he assumed office, the NAF had partnership agreement since 2015. continued to build a sustainable They were trained in basic and functional air force that â&#x20AC;&#x153;is and advanced regiment courses, highly responsive to Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s including specialised courses such contemporary security challenges.â&#x20AC;? as the Force Protection in Complex Air Marshal Abubakar explained Air and Ground Environment (FP- further that the NAF had underCAGE), Special Forces Instructorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; taken several air and ground Course (SFIC) and Combat Search related capacity building initiatives and Rescue (CSAR) Course, at the which were meant to significantly Regiment Training Centre (RTC), enable the Service to have depth, Kaduna. flexibility and capability to operate  In his remarks at the graduation either singly or jointly with sister ceremony, the Chief of the Air Services and other security agencies. Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique He noted that the desire to make Abubakar, noted that the gradua- the NAF the best in the sub-region

necessitated new platforms, equipment and specialised training. He therefore seized the opportunity to thank the Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Muhammadu Buhari, for the priority attention given to the requirements of NAF which had resulted in the acquisition of 18 brand new aircraft in the last three years; with another 12 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft and six Agusta 109 Power Helicopters being expected from the United States of America and Italy, respectively. He assured the President that the Service would continue to make judicious use of the resources entrusted to it. He also specially appreciated BMATT, the Royal Air Force and the Government of the United Kingdom (UK) for their continued support and commitment to the NAF, in particular, and Nigeria, in general. He also appreciated the Four Troop Team

Group Moves against Container Terminal Project, Petitions Buhari Ugo Aliogo

A group, Satellite Town Forum, has called for cancellation of the container terminal project at Zone two Liverpool Estate, Apapa, insisting that the area was high density residential area and already congested.

The Chairman, Satellite Town Forum, Mr. Governor Imitini, who made the call at a media briefing in Lagos, said the organisation had petitioned President Muhammadu Buhari and the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, as well as the relevant federal and state ministries and parastatals to step into the matter.

He said tank farms and container terminals/bonded warehouses were not businesses that should be sited in high density residential areas such as Satellite.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;By nature of their businesses, tank farms and container terminal/ bonded warehouses should not be located in a highly density residential area. Not only those businesses are risky and dangerous, but their activities have made life unbearable for residents. Satellite Town and its people should be saved before it is too late.â&#x20AC;?

He also noted that several residential buildings in the area have been submerged by flood especially during the rainy season, adding that many landlords and tenants had abandoned their houses.

Imitini called on the federal and state governments to construct large underground culverts across the depot road for onward routing to the sea.

He said that the flooding streaming through the estates needed to be effectively channeled across the road

to the sea, â&#x20AC;&#x153;where unfortunately the tank farms are obstructive as they have taken over the flood channels.â&#x20AC;?

According to Imitini: â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is need for the removal of tank farm facilities sited on direct flood channels. They should be removed for flood from this densely populated area to find its way to the sea. Deep and large standard in-between channels should be constructed to enable the flood flow down to the sea. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Government should convert Mumuni Adio Badmus Road (Marwa Road). The road is too narrow and was not originally meant to carry and contain axle vehicles. It is therefore always in a state of disrepair and easily blocked by the tankers thereby causing gridlock due to the pressure from the tankers.

Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa

cal Centre, Igbogene, Yenagoa, the guests paid tributes to the Governor Seriake Dicksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 72-year-old woman who died of mother, Madam Goldcoast, cancer a few months ago. yesterday started the final leg of Jonathan, in his comments, said her journey home, in an event that Mama Gogo, as she was fondly witnessed the presence of former called, was diligent in the service of President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, the Lord, and demonstrated excepformer Minister of Information, tional motherly love as captured in Prof. Jerry Gana, a former Deputy the tribute by her daughter-in-law, Senate President, Senator Ibrahim Dr. Rachel Dickson, wife of the Mantu and ex-Deputy Governor governor. of Sokoto State, Alhaji Mukhtar He said that only a God-fearing Shagari. lover of humanity would give the Also in attendance were the support Mrs. Goldcoast gave to her Chairman of the Bayelsa State daughter-in-law as captured in the Council of Traditional Rulers, King emotional tribute by the Bayelsa Alfred Diete-Spiff, former Minister First Lady. of the Environment, Mrs. Lauretta Mrs. Dickson had given a Mallam, ex-Military Administrator detailed account of how Ma of Bayelsa State, Col. Paul Edor Obi GoldCoast Dickson prayed with (Retd), another former Minister of her, encouraged her for the 15 State for the Environment, Mrs. years that she had a challenge Sarah Ochekpe and top officials with having children before the of the Bayelsa State government. birth of the quadruplets about two During the ceremony which years ago. took place at the state EcumeniShe described Mama GoldcoastÂ

as a jewel of inestimable value who did not differentiate between her and her biological daughters.

Also, Prof. Gana said that Mama Goldcoast lived an exemplary life, worthy of emulation as demonstrated by the achievements and integrity of the children she raised.

He described her as a woman of integrity and lover of children who had nurtured her children and all those who came her way to achieve successes in life.

Governor Dickson in his response, expressed gratitude to Bayelsans, various leaders across the country, friends and other sympathisers who had shown concern and support to him and the Dickson family over the demise of his mother.

The remains of Madam Goldcoast would lie-in-state in Toru Orua for a traditional and Christian wake after which she would be interred in her hometown, Toru-Angiama, today.

Bomb Scare at Asaba End of Niger Bridge Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Reported discovery of alleged improvised explosive device (IED) around the Asaba end of the River Niger Bridge created anxious moments on Friday by residents of Asaba and travelers using the all-important bridge.

THISDAY learnt that workers who were digging a foundation for the perimeter fencing of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Divisional Police Station of the Delta State Police Command allegedly made the discovery of the suspected explosive device or locally made bomb.

The workers and people in nearby areas were said to have abandoned their work and deserted the neighbourhood for fear of their lives.

Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the state, CSP Anietie Eyoh, when contacted would

however not comment on the reported strange discovery but simply assured his men remained committed to their statutory duty of protecting lives and property of citizens including policemen.

The Delta State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Anthony Ogbizi Michael, assured residents of Asaba and others that there was no cause for alarm, saying that the Bomb Disposal Unit of the command had already evacuated the suspicious device for proper analysis.

The police commissioner, however, noted that the suspicious object was found to be no longer active but impotent after due analysis by the bomb disposal unit.

According to Ogbizi, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The bomb was discovered by the people digging the foundation, and our men from the bomb

disposal unit evacuated it for analysis. But we discovered that the object is no longer active. It is therefore impotent and no threat to lives or property. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So, we are just going to destroy it. I appeal to be people in the area to remain calm. Also, motorists plying the River Niger Bridge should have no cause for alarm as our men at alert to detect any attempt to destroy the bridge.â&#x20AC;?

It could not, however, be ascertained the source of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;impotent bombâ&#x20AC;? or whether it is an unexploded ordinance abandoned or buried during the Biafran- N i g e r i a n C i v i l Wa r f r o m 1 9 6 7 to 1970, at which time Asaba witnessed much hostilities between the Nigerian and Biafran forces.

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NEWSXTRA

Plateau LG Polls: APC, PLASIEC Counselsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Unpreparedness Stall Tribunal Seriki Adinoyi Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x2122;Ă?

The first sitting of the Plateau State Local Government Election Petitions Tribunal was on Friday stalled in Jos due to unpreparedness of Counsels to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC).

A total of 14 out of more than 70 petitions filed by different political parties were listed on Friday for pre-hearing by the Tribunal headed

by Justice Jovita Binjim The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had filed more than 68 petitions to challenge   the APC candidates who were all declared winners during the October 10 council poll At the commencement of the trial on Friday, Counsel to the PDP, Mr. P.D Mark told the Tribunal that

SECURING OUR ENVIRONMENT...

L-R: HOD, Environmental Health Dept., Nigerian Army School of Medical Sciences, Ojo, Lagos Col. Halidu Ibrahim; National PRO, Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria (EHOAN), Nura Haliru; National President of Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria(EHOAN), San. Dr. Samuel Akingbehin and Deputy National President, EHOAN, Comrade, Dr. Nuhu Solomon Anyegwu at the 50th Annual Scientific Workshop and 1st International Conference on Environmental Health which ended in Lagos...recently

Niger to Gazette All Its Grazing Reserves Laleye Dipo Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2039;

Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Assembly Workers Threaten to Continue Picketing Action may disrupt budget presentation

Shola Oyeyipo Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Ă&#x;Ă&#x201D;Ă&#x2039;

Legislative activities will again be paralysed next week if the demands of National Assembly workers under the auspices of Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) are not met till the resumption of plenary Tuesday.

PASAN chairman, Mr. Musa Bature, who made the disclosure Friday when he addressed National Assembly media correspondents, said workers were ready to ground legislative businesses at the National Assembly if their demands were not met.

If the workers make good their threat, the implication is that it may delay the presentation of the 2019 budget proposal approved by President Muhammadu Buhari Friday during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting.

The Minister of Budget and Planning, Mr. Udoma Udoma, told state house correspondents that the council was now to liaise with the National Assembly to get a date when the president would present the draft budget for the consideration of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Meanwhile, when acknowledging

efforts by the political leadership of the National Assembly to address the needs of workers, Bature had noted that â&#x20AC;&#x153;The leadership of national body of PASAN as well as zonal leadership and members of the two chapters that makes up FCT, we will still go ahead with industrial actions if our demands are not met as promised. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is based on assurances by political leadership that the union in its emergency congress held last Wednesday resolved to suspend the picketing for two days as a mark of respect for the Senate President and Speaker of the House. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The picketing and pending

strike action is predicated on Consolidated Salary Structure, which was approved for NASS staff since July 2010 and only 28 per cent was approved till date. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Also the condition of service and promotion, conversion and upgrading are in the kitty for negotiations. We have tabled the issue of training for legislative staff as this is pivotal if our democracy must advance.â&#x20AC;?

The House of Representatives Thursday summoned the Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed, over the recent protest by PASAN members, which prevented legislative business last Tuesday.

FG Re-opens Ijora-Wharf Bridge in Lagos

NCC Threatens to Sanction Erring Service Providers

BennettOghifo

AmbyUneze Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; ĂĄĂ?Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x201C;

The federal government, last night, reopened the Ijora-Wharf Road link bridge in Apapa, Lagos to vehicular traffic, after months of closure for repair of a short section of the outbound lane. The rehabilitated section is close to the takeoff point of the concrete road constructed by AG Dangote.

The job description states that it is â&#x20AC;&#x153;slab replacement work/ rehabilitation of Apapa Wharf Road Rehabilitation of the failed section Ijora Apapa flyover and approach road by Leventis, Apapa-Ijora via Duct.â&#x20AC;?

According to Mr. Haim Halle, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hallekem Limited, the firm that handled the slab replacement, they completed the repair of the 325 metres stretch of the bridge in five months, instead of the one year contract period.

When the bridge was to be shut down for repairs, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola said the action was a difficult choice but that saving lives was a better choice than the inconvenience the closure of the bridge would cause. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a sobering experience that the federal government is now dealing

with many years of neglect and abuse of the bridge by traders. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are many other bridges across the country that are begging for attention, maintenance and repairs.â&#x20AC;?

The minister said the bridge had not received proper maintenance since it was constructed over 40 years ago, â&#x20AC;&#x153;yet it continued to take axle loads that exceeded its capacity due to the busy nature of the terrain. The bridge has really been battered and abused by us.â&#x20AC;?

With the reopening of the bridge, it is expected that the traffic congestion experienced in the port city would ease, said some stakeholders during the brief reopening ceremony.

Also recently, the federal government performed a groundbreaking ceremony to begin the reconstruction of the 32-kilometre Apapa-OshodiOworonshoki-Ojota in Lagos.

Fashola, who performed the task on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari, said the reconstruction of the Apapa-Oshodi-Oworonshoki-Ojota expressway Section 1 Sub-sectionAwould begin from Olorogun Michael Ibru Boulevard (former Creek Road)-end of Port Novo Bridge and Liverpool road to Coconut to Beachland Estate interchange bridge to Cele Bus Stop to Anthony Village to Old Lagos Toll Gate.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has threatened to penalise or sanction any service provider that failed to comply with its directive of ensuring effective service to the consumers in the country.

The Deputy Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau of the Commission, Alhaji Ismail Adedigbe said this at the 44th edition of Consumer Town Hall Meeting held at Oguta Civic Centre hall, in Imo State.

He regretted that the Commission had been inundated with complaints such as unsolicited text messages and calls, failure or refusal to roll over unused data at the expiration of bundle, automatic renewal of date service, call masking and refilling and directed the service providers to be alive to attending to those issues by consumers.

He said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;failure of the operators to comply with the directives would attract appropriate penalties and sanctionsâ&#x20AC;?.

Adedigbe assured that NCC as the consumer-centric institution had taken necessary steps towards addressing those major complaints by developing the 2442 DND Short Code aimed at solving the unsolicited text messages and call, issuing directive to service

providers on Data Roll-over, issuance of directive to service providers on forceful subscription of data service and developing 622 Toll-Free Line through which a consumer could easily lodge his complaints.

He said that NCC for taking full cognisance and recognition of the fact that consumers were kings, had vowed to accord them their basic right including the right to be heard, to be educated and to choose as well as the right to redress and right to safety as the case may be.

He restated the willingness of NCC as a telecom regulatory agency to empower the telecom consumers with adequate information and education.

In her opening remarks, the Director Consumer Affairs Bureau of NCC, Mrs. Felicia Onwuegbuchulam while welcoming the consumers for the Town Hall Meeting said that it was aimed at educating telecom consumers and other stakeholders on contemporary issues generating interest in the industry.

She said that the theme of the programme titled â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Using Information and Education as Tools for Consumer Empowerment and Protectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; was carefully chosen to reflect the objectives of the Nigeria Communications Commission of ensuring consumer empowerment.

the petitioners had filed all their responses in readiness for the trial and urged the court to proceed with the cases. But Counsel to the APC, Mr. Mermu Victor Pwul objected, saying that he was not prepared for the commencement of the trial.

He said the sevenâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;day period allowed by law to file his answers to the petitions was yet to elapse. He urged the Tribunal to adjourn the trial to enable him prepare adequately Counsel to PLASIEC, Mr. P.A Akubo (SAN) who also objected to the commencement of the cases on the grounds of unpreparedness requested for more time to enable them file all processes.

After listening to the Counsels, the Tribunal Chairman adjourned the matter till December 11 for commencement of  the pre-trial

Niger State Government said it will soon gazette all its grazing reserves to legalise their existence.

The state is said to have at least 22 grazing reserves out of which only two were gazetted.

The Commissioner for Livestock and Fisheries Development, Alhaji Zakari Bawa who disclosed this while briefing newsmen in Minna Friday said the exercise would stop encroachment on the lands and to a large extent reduce the incidence of farmers herders clashes.

Alhaji Zakari Bala giving details about the multi-billion naira investment in the 30 hectare grazing reserve at Bobi in the Mariga local government of the state said the federal government had the highest financial input adding that the Niger State Government had approved N198m for the provision of infrastructure in the reserve out of which N51m had been released.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Niger State Government has also keyed into the ranching programme of the federal government in an effort to encourage the settlement of pastoralists to reduce the frequent farmers herdsmen clashes,â&#x20AC;? he declared.

Zakari Bawa also disclosed that the state under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP ) intervention had procured two solar powered incubators with capacity of 15,000 eggs which had been installed at the Bosso poultry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The intervention will ensure effective use of the hatchery in line with current administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive to generate employment particularly for the youths in the state.â&#x20AC;?

The commissioner decried the manner in which farmers were fishing in the state which he described as â&#x20AC;&#x153;unacceptableâ&#x20AC;? because they were using dangerous chemicals to harvest fish which was not only dangerous for human consumption but pollutes the entire water.

Nigeria Entrepreneurs Award Celebrates Inspirational Innovators The Executive Director of the Nigeria Entrepreneurs Award, Mr. Joshua Uwabor, has hailed Nigerian entrepreneurs for their enormous contributions towards building economic growth and development, especially in the MSMEs. Uwabor disclosed this at the 5th edition of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business event, the Nigeria Entrepreneurs Award, themed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Driving Economic Growth and Diversification through MSMEsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; held at Lagos Oriental Hotel, Lagos.

According to him, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nigeria Entrepreneurs Award is not just only to celebrate them but also

to spur entrepreneurs to do more and accelerate economic recovery and stability.â&#x20AC;?

The event organised in partnership with the Global Entrepreneurship Network in Nigeria, celebrated winners from the banking sector, real estate and the entertainment sector.

The high point of the occasion was the presentation of the Corporate Social Responsibility Award of the Year in the banking sector to Keystone Bank and received by the Executive Director of the bank, Corporate Banking and South, Mr. Adeyemi Odusanya.

Rotary Club of Lagos Island Donates Science Laboratory, Furniture, Equipment to School As part of its corporate services responsibilities, Rotary Club of Lagos Island, District 9110 in partnership with Odogbolu Grammar School has donated science laboratory, furniture and equipment to facilitate continued expansion and enviable success of the community and the nation at large. Â Â Â The commissioning was done by former Chief of General Staff, Lt. Gen Oladipo Diya (Rtd) at the annual 2018 Odogbolu Celebrations organised by the Odogbolu Community Development Council (OCDC), Ogun State.

   Gen. Diya charged every member of the community to work together for effective service delivery and to embrace such service as sacrificial.   â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since there is no authority that is permanent, it therefore behooved on all to create such a viable synergy to further improve the educational and all round expectations of the masses especially the students or the pupils for conducive learning and continued financial, spiritual and healthy empowerment,â&#x20AC;? he added.

54

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž Î&#x20AC;Ë&#x153; ͺ͸͚Î&#x20AC;

NEWSXTRA

Access Bank Pledges Technology Faculty for UNN Christopher Isiguzo Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x;Ă&#x2018;Ă&#x;

GOOD TO WORK WITH YOU...

L-R: Mrs. Eucharia Uche Offor; Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State and Prince Emeka Mamah, after they were sworn in as Commissioners by the governor, at the EXCO Chambers, Government House, Enugu...yesterday

Umeh: No Concrete Commitment Yet from Buhari, Atiku on Restructuring David-Chyddy Eleke Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; ĂĄĂ&#x2022;Ă&#x2039;

The Senator representing Anambra Central in the National Assembly, Senator Victor Umeh has accused candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of merely playing politics with their promise of restructuring Nigeria.

Umeh said the duo of President Muhammadu Buhari and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar were merely mouthing restructuring to garner the support of the people, but had not shown strong commitment to restructuring the country.

Umeh said the national conference of 2014 brought together the

best brains in the country from all walks of life, with 492 delegates, which is presently bigger that the size of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parliament.

The senator who spoke to THISDAY in an interview in his hometown, Aguluzoigbo in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State said any political party that did not commit to restructuring in specific terms did not wish the country well. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That national conference has far reaching decisions that can help this country. It also had the best brains in the country from all walks of life. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Restructuring Nigeria would make the economy of the states

to rebound because people will return to their original source of wealth as the zones will become competitive, and not the monthly rush to Abuja for allocation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Both APC and PDP have not made firm commitment to restructuring Nigeria, and any party that does not see restructuring as the cynosure of all eyes does not wish Nigeria well.â&#x20AC;?

He said that while APC had made what he described as epileptic promise by selecting parts of the restructuring document agreeable to them, the PDP candidate merely mouthed it, but refusing to state in specific terms

how it hopes to do it, and which part of the documents it hopes to put to work. â&#x20AC;&#x153;PDP said it would restructure, but what the candidate failed to note was that restructuring has components, so he should tell us which of the components it is amenable to. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For now, only APGA(All Progressives Grand Alliance) candidate, Gen John Gbor has truly committed to restructuring Nigeria. Nigerians should not be fooled, they should ask questions because only restructuring can truly bring peace and put away hate, mutual suspicion and others in Nigeria.â&#x20AC;?

Army Admits Killing CNN African Voices Features Notorious Cultists in Rivers 3 Nature Enthusiasts Ernest Chinwo Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x153;Ă?Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x17E;

The Nigerian Army in Rivers State has confirmed that its men shot and killed a notorious cultist, Christian Lucky Kenjika, popularly called â&#x20AC;&#x153;School Boyâ&#x20AC;?, and one of his lieutenants during an encounter at Ubima community in Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state.  It however said its men were not responsible for the mutilation of the bodies of the deceased.

School Boy and his gang were believed to be behind series of kidnappings and other criminal activities around Ubima-OmuanwaIpo-Omerelu axis of the state.

They were also suspected to have been behind the attack on some chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during a ward-to-ward sensitisation tour at Ipo community in Ikwerre Local Government Area.

Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Colonel Aminu Illiasu, who spoke to newsmen in Port Harcourt, said the two suspected cultists died during an encounter with soldiers from 340 Artillery

Regiment, Elele.

Illiasu denied the involvement of soldiers in the mutilation of the bodies of notorious cultists, saying the act may have been carried out by a rival cult group in the area.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The cultists, two of them were killed by soldiers after an encounter.

Yesterday (Thursday), there was an encounter between a cult group and our men of 340 Artillery Regiment that are stationed in Elele. Two cultists were killed while arms and ammunition were recovered. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The corpses are with the Police but the arms are with us. It was not soldiers that mutilated their bodies. After the encounter, we left for the Police to come and recover the bodies. It is like this police did not arrive on time. Before the Police could arrive, rival cultists came and severed their heads.â&#x20AC;?

Speaking to newsmen also, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Nnamdi Omoni (DSP), said the corpse of the two suspected cultists had been deposited in the morgue while efforts were on to arrest fleeing members of the group.

Omoni appealed to members of the public to alert the Police whenever they see people with multiple gunshot wounds.

African Voices, a magazine programme of the Cable News Network (CNN) sponsored by Globacom, will this week feature three Africans who explore nature in diverse ways. They include Samson Ogbole, a Nigerian who has devised revolutionary ways to sustainably get the most out of farm lands; Junior Gabela, a South African bird guide with an uncanny knowledge of flying creatures, and Angus Paul, a Kenyan who has turned fishing into a spectacular art.

The fulcrum of Ogboleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s research is that the future of health could only be secured if it was built on agricultural practices that are healthy for the farmer, healthy for the consumer and healthy for the environment. His vision is to ensure that humans â&#x20AC;&#x153;eat right, live longerâ&#x20AC;? as well as â&#x20AC;&#x153;ensure food is the drug we eat to live healthier and longerâ&#x20AC;?.

His firm â&#x20AC;&#x153;PS Nutracâ&#x20AC;? now grows crops without using soil. This, it does by deploying several technologies, including hydroponics (plants in water), aquaponics (using waste produce of fishes to feed plants) and aeroponics (plants growing in air) to ensure that crops are grown all year round and no longer seasonally.

Ogboleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intervention may just be the right step for agricultural development in Nigeria as he says that â&#x20AC;&#x153;plants grown without soil have higher phytochemicals and antioxidants compared to those grown in soil.â&#x20AC;? He says the crops are also healthier as there is reduced

use of inorganic fertilizer, pesticides, fungicides or other agrochemicals on the crops. There are already aeroponics farms in Ibadan, Abuja, Umudike in Abia State and Araromi Ake in Ogun State.

Gabela on his own part is a site guide for Amatikulu Nature Reserve, Nkandla Forest, Dlinza Forest, Eshowe, Mthunzini, Richards Bay, Ongoye Forest, and Umlalazi Nature Reserve in South Africa. He has a quiet passion for birding and an uncanny knack of locating even the most hard to find species. He has been a Birdlife South Africa accredited guide since 2005 and has been guiding since 2000, and at the same time working with the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) where he undertakes researches and participates in school outreach programmes.

The third guest on the programme, Angus Paul, is a deep-sea fisherman. He discloses that he had wanted to be a fisherman since his childhood on the North coast of Kenya where he was fortunate to have world-class bill fish fishing right on his doorstep. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It also helped that my family ran one of the few charter companies in the region at the time. There were no favours offered, and I did my training through the ranks like everyone else and became a skipper more than 30 years agoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, he adds.

The Group Managing Director of the Access Bank, Dr. Herbert Wigwe said the bank has begun moves to endow a Technology Faculty at the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN).

Wigwe spoke as he was conferred with honorary doctorate degree in Business Administration, alongside Executive Chairman of Dozzy Group, Dr. Daniel Chukwudozie and former Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Products Pricing and regulatory Agency (PPPRA), Dr. Reginald Chika Stanley at the Varsityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 48th convocation ceremony.

He said that students of the university had to be properly equipped especially in the area of Information Communication Technology to meet the challenges of the ever-changing world.

The financial expert promised to continue to support educational development in the country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The commitment I want to make at least in my own

case apart from what the other awardees will do is that as far as technology is concerned, we will endow the faculty and provide technical support as far as technology is concerned â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whether it will be sited here or in Enugu campus, let the details be worked out today. The future is changing and we need to get our people more and more equipped,â&#x20AC;? he stated.

Wigwe who said that the UNN contributed immensely in making him what he is today advised the graduands to explore new grounds by doing those things that people would think are impossible.

The 1987 graduate of UNN described the occasion as truly home coming for him and added that â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is home coming because this institution provided me the greater part of what I am today. It helped me in academics. The greatest thing it did for me was to open my eyes to a great opportunity; the capa c i t y t o c o m p l e t e anything you start in life is something that i s r e a r. â&#x20AC;?

Oil Industry Stakeholdersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Summit Ends in Bayelsa Dickson wants IOCsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; offices relocated to Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Delta Emmanuel Addeh Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC; Ă?Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2018;Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2039;

A summit put together by stakeholders in the oil and gas industry has ended in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, with a pledge by major actors in the sector to rededicate themselves to the rapid development of local content in the industry.

Many of the major players in the industry, including the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu; Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr. Maikanti Baru; Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Simbi Wabote and heads of International Oil Companies (IOCs) agreed to work for more local participation in the industry.

During the 8th Practical Nigerian Content Conference which had the theme â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Nigerian Content :Driving Economic Development and Stabilityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Kachukwu who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, noted that with the â&#x20AC;&#x153;unleashingâ&#x20AC;? of the new oil and gas policies, the industry was about to witness and upswing in growth.

The minister acknowledged the role NCMDB was playing in adding value to the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hydrocarbon resources as well as supporting investors seeking to establish modular refineries in the country.

He described the conference as a veritable platform for industry stakeholders to assess the achievements of the Nigerian Content Act, its successes, challenges and new frontiers of possible improvements. â&#x20AC;&#x153;On our part, we have rolled up our sleeves to deliver the type of outcomes we deserve in the industry. From unleashing the new oil and gas policies to sorting out the negative cash calls problem in the upstream sector and putting in place mechanism to address supply

hiccups in the downstream sector, we have managed to stabilise our business environment and stem the tide of declineâ&#x20AC;? Kachikwu said.

In his intervention, Baru said the corporation had succeeded in institutionalising the local content policy, noting that the implementation of the Local Content Act had moved the 2010 in-country capacity for pipelines production from a paltry 100,000 metric tonnes (10 per cent of annual Industry demand of one million) to 420,000 metric tonnes, representing 40 per cent of total industry demand.

He added that today, Nigerians were playing a huge role in the oil and gas sector, including participation in bidding processes for crude oil and contracts in the sector.

He assured the NCDMB of the corporationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s readiness for collaboration to promote the development and commercialisation of homegrown technology and reaffirmed NNPCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to comply with the provisions of the Nigerian Content Act to increase in-country value addition and support job creation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;NNPCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new focus on localisation cannot be more apt. This concept will ensure that all crude oil and condensates are refined locally for export and globally after local demand is metâ&#x20AC;? Baru assured.

Mr. Wabote, ES of the NCDMB had earlier said that the Board was currently implementing a 10-year strategic roadmap hinged on the five pillars of technical capability development, compliance and enforcement, enabling business environment, organising capacity as well as sectoral and regional market linkages.

He revealed that the Board would relocate to its 17-storey headquarters office in Yenagoa in the first quarter of next year and when operationalised would be the tallest building in the Niger Delta.

DECEMBER 8, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

55

SPORTSXTRA

Iheanacho gets inspiration from Vardy

Fury overtakes Wilder in heavyweight ranking

Vardy Inspired Me to be a Better Player, Says Iheanacho Super Eagles striker, Kelechi Iheanacho has said that he derived inspiration from the story of Jamie Vardy just as he admitted that his Leicester City team-mate has given him the motivation to become a better player.

The 22-year-old watched in awe as Vardy broke the record for scoring in consecutive Premier League games in 2015 when he found the net in 11 games straight and Iheanacho said he is now trying to learn from the England striker after joining City from Manchester City.

“I have been watching him and when I was at Manchester City I was really following him and when he broke the record against Manchester United, it was the motivation for me as well,” said Iheanacho.

“So seeing him scoring 11 games straight, it gives

every youngster motivation to know anything is possible in football.

“I have been watching him since. I didn’t know I am going to come here so playing alongside him is a joy and I am happy learning from him and keep improving,” he added.

Vardy’s rags to riches story is well known but Iheanacho’s humble beginnings in Nigeria makes his emergence even more remarkable, especially as he admits he hardly ever got to watch football growing up.

While the adults were watching at communal screenings, Iheanacho was off practising his skills so one day they would be watching him.

“When I was growing up I don’t have the chance to watch a lot of football because I can’t afford to

watch football,” he revealed.

“The viewing centre was a place you go to watch football in Nigeria but you have to pay to watch football at a viewing centre, so if you don’t have the means or the money to pay, you can’t watch.

“The generators make a big telly and people gather to watch television and have argument about things and life and everything, so it is a very interesting place.

“I couldn’t afford to pay to watch them. You have to pay to watch it so I didn’t have the chance, the opportunity to watch as much, the Premier League. It was expensive then and I didn’t have that much chance to watch.

“I watched a little bit maybe important games I could save money and watch them, so I think I watch a bit of Sergio Aguero and Yaya

Toure, Wayne Rooney and Didier Drogba when I was back home in Nigeria.

“So many didn’t get the opportunity to watch it as well as me, so I just kick the ball and I just kick the ball and keep hoping that is what I do and if I get the opportunity to watch the game, if they allow me then I go but I have to fundraise but I get 10 per cent of the fundraising to watch the game.”

Now they are watching Iheanacho in the viewing centres and the young striker hopes seeing him on the big screen will make his countrymen proud.

“I think I have made them proud and I have to keep doing it,” he added.

“I don’t have to stop. I have to keep doing it and the struggle continues. They are before me and they are proud and I will keep doing them proud.”

Australian Open to Introduce Final-set Tie-breaks Next Year The Australian Open is set to follow Wimbledon and introduce final-set tie-breaks.

The change could be introduced in time for the 2019 tournament in January.

However, while at Wimbledon the final-set tie-break is to take place when the score reaches 1212 in games, in Melbourne they plan to go to a tie-

break at 6-6.

The ‘super tie-break’ will be won by the first player to reach 10 points, with a margin of two.

If Tennis Australia implement this format, it would mean all four majors will operate on slightly different scoring systems.

Players are reportedly being consulted about whether to introduce the ‘super tie-break’ from

2019 in Australia or trial it during qualifying and junior matches, with a final decision to be made later.

Tennis Australia are seeking to decrease the number of long-lasting matches during the Open and the move might also help with scheduling, as matches can currently start close to midnight under the current rules.

Serena Williams will

resume her quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January.

The 37-year-old American won the tournament for the seventh time two years ago when she beat her sister Venus in the final while eight weeks pregnant with her daughter Alexis Olympia, who was born the following September.

Fury Overtakes Wilder Following Controversial Draw Tyson Fury has leapfrogged Deontay Wilder in the Ring Magazine’s heavyweight rankings and is now rated second in the world by the historic boxing outlet.

The two heavyweights’ recent title fight ended in a disputed draw with many believing the Gypsy King

should have got the decision – including every member of Ring’s rating panel.

Ring Magazine have their own independent ranking system, compiled by their editorial board and rating panel.

The institution also awards a famous title and have been doing so for al-

most a century, having first presented a heavyweight belt to Jack Dempsey in 1922.

That very title ended up in Fury’s hands after he defeated long-time champion Wladimir Klitschko in 2015, though he later lost it due to inactivity.

Now the belt is vacant

and can traditionally only be awarded when the top two fighters in a division face each other.

During Fury’s absence, it appeared this would only happen if Joshua fought Wilder, however, now it would almost certainly have to be an all-British clash to stake the title.

Holding Out for Nine Months with ACL

Arsenal have confirmed defender Rob Holding will be out for six to nine months after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

Holding was carried off on a stretcher in the first half of the 2-2 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

The 23-year-old will undergo surgery in the coming days, with the six-to-nine-month rehabilitation process meaning he could miss the start of next season.

Holding said on Twitter: “Just want to say a big thank you to all the fans, players and staff members for the support during the past couple of days. Gutted to get injured during a strong period for the team!”

The devastating blow comes after Holding forced his way into Unai Emery’s first-team plans following an injury to Sokratis.

Holding replaced Sokratis in the 2-0 win over Everton on September 23 and went on to start the next nine Premier League matches, including the draw at United.

Stephan Lichtsteiner came on for Holding on Wednesday, and the Swiss 34-year-old is in line to make just his second league start of the season when Arsenal host Huddersfield today.

Club captain Laurent Koscielny is nearing a return from an Achilles injury that saw him miss the World Cup, but Emery confirmed the Frenchman is more likely to feature in next Thursday’s Europa League tie against Qarabag.

Super Falcons Drop to 39th Place in latest FIFA ranking In spite of successfully defending the Africa Women Cup of Nations last Saturday in Accra, Ghana, the Super Falcons of Nigeria dropped one point on the latest FIFA ranking to place 39th in the world.

In the ranking that was released yesterday, Nigeria garnered 1, 586 points in this ranking, a drop from the 1607 points in the last ranking.

However, Super Falcons remained the number one team in Africa, followed by Cameroon at 46th place and South Africa at 48th position.

Other African countries that made the top 10 list include Ghana, Cote D’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Morocco, Algeria, Mali, and Senegal.

The Super Falcons last Saturday won their ninth AWCON, beating Bafana Bafana of South Africa, 4-3.

Ailment Knocks-out Solanke against Bournemouth Dominic Solanke is not in contention to make his first Premier League appearance of the season when Liverpool face Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium this afternoon.

The Reds are one of the two unbeaten teams in the English topflight after fifteen rounds but have done so without the 2017 FIFA U20 World Cup Golden Ball winner.

Manager Jürgen Klopp confirmed at the pre-match conference that Solanke will not be involved against the Cherries due to an undisclosed ailment. ‘’Clyney has been out for already two weeks, it’s nothing serious but he is not in training and not available as well, ‘’ Klopp was quoted as saying by Liverpool’s official website. ‘’Joe Gomez obviously, Oxlade, Rhian Brewster and Dom Solanke are out. But Dom is close; I really hope he will be in team training again from Sunday on. But we have to see.’’

Former Liverpool winger Jordon Ibe was pictured training with Bournemouth’s first team on Friday in their last workout ahead of today’s game.

Saturday, December 8, 2018

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MISSILE

Oshiomhole to Amosu, Okorocha “Those who think our political future is tied to them are poor students of their own political history. Some of these people who talk as if they are invincible have forgotten that they have run elections in the past and lost until they abandoned their parties and joined us” – National Chairman of the APC, Adams Oshiomhole, waving aside threats of two governors - Ibikunle Amosun and Rochas Okorocha - to work against the party in 2019.

PENDULUM DELE MOMODU

dele.momodu@thisdaylive.com

Why Many Nigerians are Scared of the Year 2019

F

ellow Nigerians, this is usually a festive period when most people look forward to the New Year, with high hopes and great expectations.

But not anymore. I don’t know if you have noticed, wherever two or three Nigerians are gathered these days, the subject of discussion is Nigeria’s elections, especially the Presidential election, coming up next February. And many analysts talk with trepidation, out of the fear that the APC government appears desperate and may not wish to relinquish power, voluntarily, without putting up a fight. “Buhari was a military dictator, unlike Jonathan, and it would be difficult for you guys to chase him away like you did to Jonathan,” a prominent Nigerian told me recently. I then asked, “do you mean Buhari will refuse to hand over power even if he glaringly loses the election?”

His response was chillingly cold-blooded “mark my word, Buhari’s people are ready for war…” he quipped.

Though the tell-tale signs are there, considering the unusual electoral malpractices in Ekiti, Osun, Kwara and other places where voters have allegedly been brazenly intimidated, disenfranchised and disillusioned.

It is generally believed that the security forces, especially the Police have been largely compromised and that they are unashamedly doing the Government’s bidding, even if it means that the very tenets of democracy are being eroded with the attendant calamitous consequences that may befall our beloved country as a result.

The Government has not helped matters much on this issue because people wonder why such use of humongous force can be strategically organised and positioned for elections, which should otherwise be peaceful events, when such force cannot be used against our insurgents who appear to be back with a bang and slowly, steadily and surely eroding our territory and our sovereignty. The Government’s claim that its aim in dealing with elections in this way is to protect democracy and ensure the fairness of those elections seems false given the allegations of intimidation and violence made against the security forces.

That is not all. It is being widely debated as to whether or not the government is busy throwing money around as a way of suborning the electorates under the guise of empowering the masses through its Trader Moni and Npower schemes.

The Trader Moni scheme aims to start of petty traders with small interest free loans starting from N10,000 and rising incrementally on repayment to N100,000. The Government says that the Bank of Industry co-ordinated scheme hopes to assist petty traders who would not otherwise have access to affordable bank loans to grow their businesses. Detractors question the timing of the scheme and the amount of money that beneficiaries of the scheme are being paid. It is almost as if they are being paid this initial N10,000 in order to buy their votes and this was magnified by the unfounded rumours that was circulated that PVC’s were a requirement to obtain the loan.

Buhari

As the Government stresses in promoting the scheme, this is an empowerment programme which is not associated with any vote-buying scheme. One thing is clear though, the petty traders who are recipients of this interest free loan are smiling all the way to the bank and appreciate the Government’s gesture.

The turnout and visible smiles on the face of market women where ever the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, has visited in promotion of this scheme speaks volumes about its acceptance amongst those it intends to benefit. Whether there is an ulterior motive will soon be revealed especially when the period for the incremental increase dawns and the elections are over.

The other scheme which traducers of the Government claim is merely a vote-buying gimmick is Npower. The scheme aims at eventually providing everyday skills which can be usefully deployed by the millions of unemployed youths in the Country. Those lucky to benefit from the scheme get paid a stipend which the opposition considers is a mere bribe to secure the votes and support of the jobless, frustrated youths.

It is a mark of the times that we are in, and the impoverishment of the people, that these two schemes with the miserly amounts involved can catch the attention of the populace. Their intendment and effect have been likened to the welfare system which operates in most welfare countries, with Government protagonists calling it a form of the “dole” which operates in the United Kingdom. Those who oppose both schemes say that these are corrupted versions of the benefit system being propagated to suit a corrupt purpose by a government which corrupts everything including its so-called seminal fight against corruption.

What is also scary for neutral observers of the polity is the fact cyberbullying has been on the rise in dramatic fashion. Everywhere you turn on social media, there are rabid Buhari supporters, in particular, who treat their idol like God, such that any form of criticism attracts instant vitriolic and acerbic attack. On a WhatsApp group I was till yesterday, a querulous and garrulous young man who seems to defend every action of APC and Buhari went completely berserk saying anyone who supports Atiku Abubakar

must be mentally deranged and requires urgent psychiatric attention, perhaps. Another one of them said Omoyele Sowore must be sick because of certain utterances he made recently. I couldn’t take the intolerance again and told the attacker to change his attitude “in the name of God.” As far as these people are concerned, everyone who has any form of sympathy for PDP or its Presidential candidate is automatically a rogue and looter. Yet the same so-called “looters and rogues” are welcomed with open arms whenever a member of PDP saunters across to APC so that his sins can be forgiven instantly, and he can become a ‘saint’ in the eyes of these unreasonable and illogical fanatics. It is true that the PDP has created a long list of looters and perceived looters, but the same has always been true of APC. That is why the corruption fight has never really gotten off the ground and it is why the Government may eventually lose the war because of its concentration on this one issue while failing to realise that the people want economic and social emancipation first and foremost.

For them, corruption is ultimately only at best a distraction which will be relegated to the background when the reality of the pervading hunger biting at them strikes home.

Many are wondering how some could be so brainwashed into seeing the sins of one Party and its members but are completely blind to the sins of others who are members of the ruling party. Blaming the problems of Nigeria on the 16 years of PDP is no longer ingenious now that APC is busy attracting and accepting the same demons into their fold, indiscriminately. I do not understand the audacity that makes APC feel it can continue to use those lines of calling others thieves when there have been too many instances of similar recklessness within its circle. Those with discernment recall that it is not all of the 16 PDP years that can be described as a period of profligacy and reckless plundering. In any event apart from possibly some of the antics of the Petroleum Ministry and the NNPC, few knew about the pillaging that was occurring under the Jonathan Government until the Government fell. Some argue that the same fate awaits the present administration and that people will be amazed at the level of brigandage and damage done to our collective commonwealth by a cabal within this government and a few other senior Ministers. The claim is that Dasukigate is child’s play, but that we shall only know the truth whenever the government is dethroned. I cannot personally vouch for the authenticity of these claims, but I hear the strident pleas of the First Lady, Aisha Buhari about the need to expose a cabal which is making the Presidency unable to fulfil the Change that it promised.

Also, whenever they call the PDP Presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, a corrupt man, I often wonder if Atiku was ever more than a Vice President and if he wielded more influence than the President. Moreover, the only basis for this continues to be the fact that his Boss, President Obasanjo, said so in the past, and

an American Congressional investigation seemingly indicted him on some transactions as a result of which his visa application was turned down. What I fail to understand is why these two matters would continue to be an issue when the Boss, President Obasanjo has wholeheartedly embraced the candidature of Atiku, warts and all, and the American law enforcement agencies have never indicted him, and the Government of that country now appears prepared to issue him a visa. In my view, those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. A lot of respect has been accorded the President whose dignity and integrity has generally been protected by the military and political class and the fourth estate of the realm. This is understandably so, because we must not denigrate our leaders or soil their reputations if this can be avoided. Nevertheless, I think it is about time that the Administration starts trumpeting its successes in the economic and social infrastructure sector as well as security.

The government does have laudable and stellar achievements it can point to. The Government should also focus on its plans for the future. If the President allows his team to trawl the gutter in the allegations they are making against the former Vice-President of the country, a time may come when all the gloves go off and fisticuffs or roforofo fight becomes the order of the day with everybody besmeared and besmirched.

It is the unrelenting smear campaign against the PDP Presidential candidate Atiku, without any real regard to the issues which are paramount for the masses that is ultimately the biggest fear factor. If the APC has nothing good to tell us about what it proposes to do for the country if it wins, beyond saying that Nigerians must not vote for a looter, then the presumption is that they will take all steps to ensure that their rhetoric succeeds by hook and by crook.

The logic is that the APC is so desperate to cling on to power even though it does not know what to do with it and accordingly, out of that desperation it will subvert the will of the electorate by foisting itself on the people with the might of the security forces at its behest and disposal. We may not need to get to this stage if APC realises that it can campaign on the issues, and change its ways, so that winning the elections is no longer in doubt. I fear however, that the ship has long since sailed in that regard and the major protagonists on the APC are hawkish warmongers who do not want to go back into the political wilderness that they had been consigned to before the all-conquering APC was birthed.

It is the hope of the generality of Nigerians that the Nigerian security forces will in the end shun partisanship and live to the true spirit of their oath to defend Nigeria and not any individual or Party. Soldier come, Soldier go! The will of the people must always be allowed to prevail and if this means another Party gaining power so be it. This has happened in the recent past and it will happen again. That is the beauty of democracy which our security forces have sworn to protect!

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