FRIDAY 14TH DECEMBER 2018

OPL 245: FG Sues Shell, Eni for $1.1bn

Chineme Okafor in Abuja with agency reports

The federal government yesterday filed a $1.1 billion lawsuit against Royal Dutch Shell and Eni in a commercial court in London over a 2011

deal involving Oil Prospecting Lease (OPL) 245.

The OPL 245 oilfield is also at the heart of an ongoing corruption trial in Milan in which former and current Shell and Eni officials are in the dock.

Milan prosecutors alleged that bribes totalling $1.1 billion were paid to win the licence to explore the field which, because of disputes, has never entered into production.

The main trial - which besides Eni and Shell also

involves Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi and four ex-Shell managers including former Shell Foundation Chairman Malcolm Brinded - is expected to drag on for months.

The new London case also relates to payments made by

the companies to get the OPL 245 oilfield licence in 2011.

“It is alleged that purchase monies purportedly paid to the Federal Republic of Nigeria were in fact immediately paid through to a company controlled by Dan Etete,

formerly the Nigerian minister of petroleum, and used for, among other things, bribes and kickbacks,” Reuters quoted a government statement as saying.

Continued on page 10

WTO Lists Benefits of AfCFTA for Nigeria, Others… Page 10 Friday 14 December, 2018 Vol 23. No 8640. Price: N250

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Your Loyalty will Be Rewarded in 2019, Buhari Assures Supporters Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja

DIPLOMATIC PLANE...

L-R: Former presidential spokesman, Mr. Reno Omokri; Senate President and Director-General, Peoples Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Council, Dr. Bukola Saraki; Chairman US Senate Committee on Africa, Senator Jeff Flake; and Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, during the US Congress hearing on Nigeria's forthcoming 2019 general elections in Washington DC, USA... yesterday

President Muhammadu Buhari has promised to reward members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who work for his victory in 2019 presidential election.

Buhari made the pledge on Wednesday night when the Buhari Support Organisation (BSO) launched "Together Nigeria," to support the president’s re-election bid at the old Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The president, who acknowledged that he was unable to reward some of Continued on page 10

22 House Members Move to Return Nigeria to Parliamentary System of Govt Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja The House of Representatives yesterday passed the first reading of a bill initiated by 22 members seeking to return Nigeria to parliamentary system of government.

A group of bi-partisan lawmakers, numbering 22, who are members of the lower chambers of the

National Assembly, addressed journalists yesterday in the House of Representatives Press Centre, and said the presidential system of government had become too costly, and was not giving Nigerians the best type of leadership.

The lawmakers, who said they were already 71 in number, said they were

collecting more signatures, saying they were sure to get the mandatory two-third majority needed to facilitate a constitution amendment that would see Nigeria return to parliamentary system of government.

Presenting their case to House of Representatives correspondents, Hon. Nicholas Osai (Delta, PDP), said the

aim was to bring about better fusion of government and foster harmony between the executive and the legislature.

According to him, “Our position in this legislation clearly point to compelling advantages of parliamentary systems of government to economic growth and development as well as its inherent efficiency in the

conduct of government businesses.

“Studies have shown that countries run by presidential regimes consistently produce; lower output growth, higher and more volatile inflation and greater income inequality relative to those under parliamentary ones.”

He noted, “Little wonder the rich continue to be richer

while the poor get poorer and we have become the poverty capital of the world.”

He said the presidential system was responsible for slow passage of legislation, high unemployment, political and economic instability.

According to him, “There are countless empirical records, Continued on page 10

Obasanjo: Don’t Instigate Press War, Fani-Kayode Warns Presidency… Page 10

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Obasanjo: Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Instigate Press War, Fani-Kayode Warns Presidency Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, yesterday warned the presidency not to instigate a press war, saying taking former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, to the cleaners over his political views could attract a comprehensive retaliation from Obasanjoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s camp.

Fani-Kayode, who served under Obasanjo, said the presidency ought to treat the former president with absolute respect, otherwise his associates would have to respond and that might not augur well for the image of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The presidency rapped the former president over his searing criticism of the Buhari administration, saying

it no longer had respect for Obasanjo because he had become inconsistent.

Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s media aide, Malam Garba Shehu, had told State House Correspondent that the administration would no longer take Obasanjo seriously because he had changed his mind severally on the matter of the next president of Nigeria, saying the former president was confused.

But responding yesterday, Fani-Kayode said the presidency was precipitating a messy media war and warned it to pull back.

He gave a hint of what was in the offing, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Actually, if anybody is confused, it is President Buhari, who his own wife says is not in control of the government entrusted to his care.â&#x20AC;?

He told THISDAY, â&#x20AC;&#x153;One minute he is running the affairs of the country, and the next minute, according to his wife, two powerful, faceless and unelected men have hijacked the government, have taken control and have pushed him aside.â&#x20AC;?

Fani-Kayode said as a former special assistant on Public Affairs to Obasanjo between 2003 and 2006, there was very little that he did not know about him or his tenure, adding that the former president deserved to be treated with respect.

According to him, Obasanjo remains the father of the nation and one of the most productive and successful presidents in the history of Nigeria.

He said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I read with dismay the comments from the presidency about former

President Obasanjo. I want to serve them a note of warning.

They should leave Obasanjo alone and keep him out of their sights if they do not want a really messy press war. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When they needed him in 2015, they begged him to be their navigator and they bowed before him and kissed his feet. They even called him their navigator but now they say he is confused and not to be taken seriously simply because he has seen through them and dumped them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is not their fault. They reaped where they did not sow and if not for the likes of the Obasanjo that they are now insulting they would never have smelt power in 2015.â&#x20AC;?

He said the record of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led

federal government in public office stinks as they have failed woefully.

Fani-Kayode further stressed, "Some of us knew it would come to this because we saw through them even then and we knew that they are nothing but a bunch of self-seeking opportunists and ingrates that are not fit to hold power let alone steer the affairs of a great nation like Nigeria. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not one of them or their principal is fit to lick Obasanjo's shoes let alone talk about him that way. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Respect begets respect. Leave Obasanjo out of your mess and face your election campaign or else we will take the kid gloves off and teach you the lesson of your lives.â&#x20AC;?

Presidential spokesperson, Shehu, had told reporters

that whoever Obasanjo chose to support in the 2019 elections was irrelevant, as the former president had publicly changed his mind on the matter several times over the past few months.

He said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Former President Obasanjo denounces one person today and supports that same person the next day. When it pleases him, he brings God into the matter and uses that as his excuse for whatever position he has chosen. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have learnt not to take his utterances seriously anymore.

We know that the slightest wind can make him change his mind again. After all, this is the same man who publicly tore his party registration card barely four years ago, and he now claims to be backing the same party.â&#x20AC;?

WTO Lists Benefits of AfCFTA for Nigeria, Others Obinna Chima in Geneva, Switzerland The World Trade Organisation (WTO) has expressed its support for the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), saying the initiative will catalyse intra-African trade.

The Director of Information at WTO, Mr. Keith Rockwell, said this during an interview with THISDAY, at an ongoing seminar for journalists from Africa, Asia and the Caribbean in Geneva, Switzerland.

However, while Rockwell pointed out that Nigeria, being a sovereign country has the right to decide whether to sign the

agreement or not, he added that the advantages of such agreements far outweighs fears countries that were yet to sign may be harbouring.

Nigeria in March this year declined to sign the agreement to create the AfCFTA, which was signed at an extraordinary summit in Kigali, Rwanda by representatives of 44 of the 55 African Union (AU) member states.

The deal was expected to improve the economic prosperity of the African countries by removing barriers to trade, like tariffs and import quotas, and allowing the free flow of goods and services

between its members.

The presidency had explained that President Muhammadu Buhari had yet to sign the pact because he wanted to consult widely with stakeholders, adding that when Nigeria was about to sign, key stakeholders in the country had said they were not consulted.

Commenting on Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reluctance to sign the agreement, he said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is for every government to decide what they want to do. And Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What the Nigerian government decides to do is up to them. But I do know

that where governments have gone forward with integration efforts, it has been a catalyst to increase trade.â&#x20AC;?

Rockwell pointed out that: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The AfCFTA is incredibly important because the intraAfrican share of trade in Africa is really very small, at between 15 and 18 per cent.â&#x20AC;?

He noted that Africa lags far behind Europe, Asia, North America and South America. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In Eastern Africa, they are doing a good job on this and trade facilitation has been very helpful in that region because the WTO trade facilitation agreement has taken down a lot of the bureaucratic obstacles

to moving goods. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you make it difficult for particularly small entrepreneurs to trade, then they are not going to do it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The AfCFTA is an opportunity to make the market in the region bigger, utilise economies of scale to a greater extent and widen the possibility of establishing value chains in Africa,â&#x20AC;? he said.

According to the WTO spokesman, Africa does not have the same concentration of global value chain as other parts of the world. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And part of that is that the global value chain tends to be local in nature. With

Africa as a continent having same population as India, at 1.3 billion, but it has 55 different markets. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That creates a lot of fragmentation that makes it difficult to do business. In Western Africa for example, you have some language barriers to overcome. So, you need the political commitment going forward to address the issues. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you can have the agreement, you can generate a dynamic market that would help a lot of entrepreneurs to increase their scope and reach a wide number of people and that can mean jobs, growth and development,â&#x20AC;? he added.

2015 and are currently being experienced as Nigeria prepares for 2019 elections, Osai stated, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Such volatility is evidenced by sharper electoral cycles under presidential regimes than that of parliamentary systems as presidential regimes are often not conducive to consensus building which is known to have favourable effects on the

economy.â&#x20AC;?

Arguing that parliamentary systems will bring about quicker passage of economic bills due to the fusion of power that it embodies, he said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The decentralisation of powers in parliamentary systems help to douse tensions in countries (like Nigeria) where ethnicity, race, religious differences and ideological divisions are prevalent thereby promoting peace and unity which are ingredients for economic growth and development.â&#x20AC;?

22 HOUSE MEMBERS MOVE TO RETURN NIGERIA TO PARLIAMENTARY SYSTEM OF GOVT which show that output growth under presidential regimes is in zero points (negative) while output growth under parliamentary systems clocks from one point and above (positive). â&#x20AC;&#x153;In countries run by presidential systems inflation is on average six per cent point higher than those under parliamentary

regimes. Income inequalities under presidential systems are worse when compared with that of parliamentary or hybrid systems of government. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Presidential regimes consistently produce less favourable macroeconomic outcomes, which prevail in a wide range of circumstances (the Nigerian example).

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Due to the excessive powers domiciled to one man under the presidential systems, consensus building that is often required for economic decision is always lacking. Economies of nations are known to thrive on the confidence of investors to the system and character of the government. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The level of instability and

volatility of presidential systems makes it difficult to achieve these economic objectives. The over centralisation of government decisions that are prevalent in presidential systems obstructs economic development when compared to the parliamentary or hybrid systems.â&#x20AC;?

Stating that these anomalies were witnessed in Nigeria in

YOUR LOYALTY WILL BE REWARDED IN 2019, BUHARI ASSURES SUPPORTERS those that worked for his victory in 2015, noted, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some of you, individuals and organisations, may be feeling disappointed because we have not been able to please everyone. I would like to assure you that this time, hard work and loyalty will be rewarded adequately.â&#x20AC;?

He also seized the opportunity of the occasion to appreciate some celebrities present at the event for their efforts in laundering Nigeria's image abroad and thanked them for their contributions to the development of the Nigerian

entertainment industries.

According to the president, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am particularly happy to be here face-to-face with some of our celebrities whom I only see on television. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tonightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event once again reminds me of our political struggles over the years and the support I enjoyed from many support structures such as The Buhari Organisation (TBO) and Buhari Support Organisation (BSO). I am happy that today we are not only celebrating our election victory but our numerous

landmark achievements. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have listened and I acknowledge with delight the story of BSO past, present and future from previous speakers.

In particular, I commend the plan to reorganize and reposition the organization towards the forthcoming election and beyond. This has once again given me further encouragement, hope and optimism in our political journey. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At this point, I would like to acknowledge the over whelming support I

enjoyed from individuals and organisations across the country over the years. I say thank you to all those who contributed to our successes in one way or the other.â&#x20AC;?

He commended the Together Nigeria Group for the roles in informing the people about the successes recorded by his administration. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you for educating the world about our good work and achievements.â&#x20AC;?

The event was graced by the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wife, Aisha; wife of the vice president, Mrs. Dolapo

Osinbajo; governors; members of the Federal Executive Council; over 100 Nigerian entertainers cutting across the movie, music and sports sector and other notable political figures.

Speakers at the event applauded Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s anticorruption initiatives, noting that he deserves another four years to consolidate his achievement in the fight against graft.

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Babachir Lawal, was also at the event.

paid directly to the Nigerian government,â&#x20AC;? it said.

The federal government had filed a London case against United States bank, JPMorgan, for its alleged role in transferring over $800 million of government funds to Etete, who has been convicted of money laundering.

In another separate trial, a Milan court in September found a middleman guilty of corruption after prosecutors alleged he had received a mandate from Etete, who had denied any wrongdoing, to find

a buyer for OPL 245, collecting $114 million for his services.

An Italian judge sentenced Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Emeka Obi to jail in the first ruling on the controversial OPL 245 deal, the oil industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest graft scandals.

Obi, accused of being middleman and taking illegal kickbacks, had asked for a separate fast-track trial which, under Italian law, allows sentences to be cut by a third.

In an emailed statement, a spokeswoman for Shell had said neither Obi nor Di

Nardo worked on behalf of the company. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Based on our review of the Prosecutor of Milanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s file and all of the information and facts available to us, we do not believe that there is a basis to convict Shell or any of its former employees of alleged offences,â&#x20AC;? it said.

Also in emailed comments, Eni reiterated it had acted correctly in the purchase of OPL 245, saying it had worked directly with the federal government.

OPL 245: FG SUES SHELL, ENI FOR $1.1BN â&#x20AC;&#x153;Accordingly, it is alleged that Shell and Eni engaged in bribery and unlawful conspiracy to harm the Federal Republic of Nigeria and that they dishonestly assisted corrupt Nigerian government officials.â&#x20AC;?

The office of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Attorney General and Minister of Justice did not respond to Reutersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; phone calls and messages seeking comment.

But Shell said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The 2011 settlement of long-standing legal disputes related to OPL 245 was a fully legal transaction with Eni

and the Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by the most senior officials of the relevant ministries.â&#x20AC;?

Eni said in an emailed statement it rejected â&#x20AC;&#x153;any allegation of impropriety or irregularity in connection with this transaction.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Eni signed a commercial agreement in 2011 for a new licence for OPL 245 with the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company and the consideration for the licence was

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COMMENT

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

OBI, IGBOS AND WISDOM OF THE WEST The Igbos should put their act together, writes Hyginus Azubike

W

hen the presidential standard bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar nominated Mr. Peter Obi as his running mate, the joy was universal. In the political history of Nigeria, no such nomination was greeted with the type of elation with which Nigerians welcomed it. From North to South and East to West, the citizenry proclaimed Atikuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice as the best Nigeria has witnessed preparatory to general elections.

Most Nigerians were excited by Obiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nomination due to his performance as Governor of Anambra State. They believe, rightly, that teaming up with Atiku, they will replicate the Anambra wonder.

As Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vice-President when Obi was Governor of Anambra State, Atiku must have closely observed the younger man; and was satisfied with Obiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s several positive contributions at meetings and saw in him what the rest of Nigerians did. Atiku himself said of Obi: â&#x20AC;&#x153;In 2016, my running mate, former Governor Peter Obi, gave an Independence Day speech at â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Platformâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; event organised by Covenant Christian Centre in Lagos. It was an unforgettable Independence Day event which, according to Google analytics, was the most searched item in Nigeria on that day. Why was that speech so attractive to Nigerians? It is because Mr. Obi gave a detailed breakdown of the reality of governance in Nigeria today, which is one of a wasteful squandering of the riches that should have gone into the development of our youthâ&#x20AC;?.

However, it was both shocking and perplexing that the opposition Obi got was from the South East, the very people that are supposed to be at home with the wonders that he did in Anambra State. In what looked like diplomacyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way of saying â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Noâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to a person, a group of persons said that they were against the process by which Atiku nominated Obi. They went as far as issuing statements and initiating moves intent on truncating the choice. What was instructive was that while they were on this, the Westerners appealed and even sent a delegation to Atiku that they were fully ready for the post should the Easterners lose it due to their folly. This singular act should stick as food-for-thought for the people of the East.

What is inspiring in this man-made controversy was thatAtiku Abubakar remained steadfast, only explaining the reasons for Obiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice, which was precisely the same reasons Nigerians welcome it.

As far as Nigerians are concerned, Atikuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stand was the first credit he recorded â&#x20AC;&#x201C; display of a leaderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to stand by his decision. Strength of character remains a missing quality among our political elite; and clearly Atiku has it in full supply.

When the real reason that informed the protest began to crystallise, it left all Igbos interested in the progress of Nigeria and that of the SouthEast scratching their heads in perplexity. It may sound incredible, but the truth is that the protest was informed by the belief of our brothers from Ebonyi and Enugu States that Anambra State is getting the better of good things that come to the East. This assertion is highly debatable, because

IGBOS MUST KNOW THAT INTERNAL COOPERATION IS THE FIRST LAW OF EXTERNAL COMPETITION. YOU CANNOT TEAR AT ONE ANOTHER LIKE PUPPIES AND HOPE TO SUCCESSFULLY FACE EXTERNAL THREAT IN THAT STATE OF CONFUSION

political positions, including leadership of the Senate and ministerial appointments have always been evenly distributed.

It is a great disservice to the Igbos for people to seek to segregate themselves by reference to the distribution of political offices at this time. Have they forgotten that the man in question â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mr. Peter Obi â&#x20AC;&#x201C; has been tested and people know that he is not one to exhibit parochialism if elected? Obiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fairness and sense of justice was the reason he was allowed to head the South-East Governors Forum for eight years. Igbos must know that internal cooperation is the first law of external competition. You cannot tear at one another like puppies and hope to successfully face external threat in that state of confusion.

Are you interested in the distribution of political posts among other regions of Nigeria? Curiously, I searched for what distribution of political positions has been in the West. We know names like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Adetokunbo Ademola, Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo, Ernest Shonekan, Abraham Adesanya, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Pastor Tunde Bakare, Gen. Oladipo Diya, among others. Incidentally, they all hail from Ogun State. Have you heard the West raise it as an issue? Most major appointments that came to the West went to Ogun State. Some past governors of Lagos State were also from Ogun State. Those that served in the cabinet of Alhaji Bola Tinubu in Lagos State became governors in many other states in the West, example being Alhaji Rauf Aregbesola, the immediate past Governor of Osun State.

In 2014, when Gen. Muhammadu Buhari nominated Prof. Yemi Osinbajo as his running mate, we did not hear any protest of imposition or side-talks of non-consultation. Rather, the people of the West joined hands in selling Osinbajo as one of the best things that has happened to them since Awolowo. Nobody chose to recall that his only political experience was as a Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General under the then Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The people of the West took the project as theirs and got other regions to key in. This is what it should be; oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own people must first of all accept him, associate with him and be instrumental in telling others that â&#x20AC;&#x153;this our son is trusted and should be accepted by allâ&#x20AC;?.

Compare the fore-going to the reactions of some Igbo people and one will note what short-sightedness can do to a people. In Igbo parlance, even a mad man has parentage; when anything untoward happens to him, his people will show up. Igbos have sayings to depict all situations, but some of them conduct themselves as if totally bereft of wisdom. The current political permutations in the land offer Igbos the opportunity of a re-think. Indeed, this is a time to ask themselves salient questions, define their destination and map out survival strategy as other regions are doing. They should do this in the interest of their people and for the overall progress of the country, and not for some petty, pecuniary benefits.

Azubike wrote from Enugu

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE SGF

Falilat O. Yusuf writes that appointments to key commissions and agencies are critical to the attainment of the administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s declared objectives

T

he Nigerian Public Service, which consists of Ministries, Agencies, Departments and Commissions, is primarily the administrative machinery of government designed for the formulation and implementation of policies and programmes of the administration in power.

Since the coming to power of the Buhari Administration in May 2015, there has been a persistent public outcry over the inability or unwillingness of the administration to make key appointments into some of the commissions and agencies of government which are critical to the attainment of the administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s declared objectives.

More than 20 parastatals and commissions are currently without board members and in some cases where the President has approved the appointment of chairmen and members, the supervisory ministers have blatantly refused to inaugurate them for inexplicable reasons. For instance a key agency of government like the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), which is a constitutional body and which advises government on fiscal efficiency and ways and means of improving accruable revenues, is virtually redundant for the past three years because government is yet to appoint 30 out of the 37 commissioners whose tenure ended about three years ago. The commission, which also has the constitutional responsibility of monitoring accruals of revenue to the Federation Account and disbursement thereof, also determines the remuneration of political office holders, among other important duties. At the moment the commission has been operating minimally, if at all, with an acting chairman, the secretary and six members, which by all accounts, does not constitute a workable number let alone a quorum for decision making and are therefore statutorily hamstrung in undertaking any meaningful activity. The apparent deep reluctance in the appointments is bound to create not only formidable administrative problems but would also set a regrettable precedent which, within the framework of its statutory obligations cannot be

justified. It also tends to impair public confidence in the administration. The avoidable procrastination in the appointments of the 30 commissioners would furthermore have an emasculating effect on the overall performance of the commission and at same time unduly deprive 30 states of the Federation of fair and equal representation in federal appointments which in our democratic setting is politically unwise and may tend to raise doubts about the presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s credible intentions. This much has been explicitly echoed by Daily Trust newspaper in its front page of 26th November 2018 in which the paper succinctly argued that the absence of the 30 commissioners has virtually grounded activities of the commission and called on the government to rectify the administrative anomaly in order to enable the commission to perform its statutory obligations. If government is dithering over the appointments, the opposition would have a formidable political weapon to accuse the government of being indecisive, especially as the 2019 general elections are fast approaching. It therefore behooves the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, whose responsibility it is to ensure that the Commission is fully functional and whose office has a supervisory role over the Commission to, as a matter of strategic imperative, do the needful and advise the President to, without further delay, make the appropriate appointments of the 30 commissioners. There is no plausible political or strategic reason to keep delaying the appointments. The President, perhaps due to the exigencies of his office and the multifarious issues of state which require his undivided attention all the time, may not be in the picture of what is happening at the Commission and even if he does, he may not likely foresee its negative repercussions on his electoral fortunes.

Another constitutionally established Commission, which equally faces similar problem is the Federal Character Commission. The tenure of the Commissioners ended six months ago. Since then government has been dithering over the constitution of its board on the flimsy and untenable excuse that the Secretary to the Commission and the Chairman

come from the same geopolitical zone. Unless there is a vested interest or ulterior motive behind the delay, there is no reason why one of them should not be replaced by competent persons from other zones.

The Federal Character Commission is constitutionally mandated to, among other things, ensure fairness and equity in federal appointments taking into consideration the multi-ethniic, multi - religious and other socio-polical and regional diversities of the country. If the commission is not properly constituted there is no guarantee that agencies of government could abide strictly by the well-established statutory guidelines in their appointments or operational activities.

Another important agency of government which is suffering similar fate is the National Pension Commission which, inter alia, regulates and supervises the contributory pension scheme of the government, which was established for public service retirees. It also supervises the operations of Pension Fund Administrators. The President has since approved the appointment of board members of the Commission and the names have been duly forwarded to the Senate for confirmation in line with statutory requirements. However since then nothing has been heard from either the Senate or the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, which has oversight function over the Commission.

Absence of the Board for any length of time tends to jeopardise the operational activities of the Commission and profoundly undermine governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s declared intentions to release the benefits and entitlements of retirees as at when due. The lack of a properly constituted board is further compounded by the absence of a substantive Director General, who is the Chief Executive of the Commission. The person currently serving as the CEO has been in acting capacity for over a year. Why? The Corporate Affairs Commission is also experiencing similar challenge in respect of its Chief Executive. For over a year a lady has been acting as the Registrar General of the Commission.

Although the Board, which essentially provides

policy direction to Commission, is in place, there needs to be a substantive Director General to be in firm control of the affairs of the Commission in order to ensure the effective realisation of its set objectives.

Unlike the appointment of the Chief Executive of agencies which requires Senate confirmation, that of Corporate Affairs Commission does not require such confirmation. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s being perversely delayed for reasons yet to be made public. However there are allegations making the round that Acting Chief Executives and agencies without governing boards are, quite often, vulnerable to manipulation by the powers that be. Whatever the motive of government behind the avoidable delays in the constitution of the boards or the appointment of substantive Chief Executives, it has a telling effect on the reputation of the administration and the opposition is sure to cash in and would accuse the government of being fundamentally indecisive or incorrigibly inept. In addition to all these burning issues concerning the various commissions and agencies of the government, is the daunting problem associated with the take off of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), which seems to be becoming the albatross of the administration. The North East Development Commission was initiated to redress the horrendous and unimaginable destruction caused by the Boko Haram insurgency in the North East. The bill establishing the commission was formally signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari more than a year ago in October 2017. Earlier both houses of the National Assembly passed the bill into law sometime in late 2016. At this point it is worthwhile to highly commend wife of the President, Hajiya Aisha Buhari for her strenuous efforts and uncommon determination in ensuring that the bill passed through all the legislative hurdles. Also the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, members of the North East caucus of both houses as well as the entire members of the National Assembly deserve commendation for their role in the passage of the bill.

Yusuf wrote from Ilorin, Kwara State

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T H I S D AY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

EDITORIAL High Rate Of Road Accidents The FRSC could do more to stem the carnage on our roads

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tatistics of death on our roads are becoming rather alarming. Last month, 11 students of the University of Maiduguri who were sent home from school because of the ongoing Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) strike perished in a road accident. But of greater concern are the recent figures from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). According to the road transportation data, in the second quarter of 2018, a total of 2,608 road crashes occurred on Nigerian roads with hundreds of fatalities. As the Yuletide therefore draws nearer, necessitating mass movement of people and vehicular traffic, the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and other relevant agencies must step up their game to ensure the safety of road users.

Nigeria is estimated to have a total road network of approximately 200,183 kilometres, out of which four per cent of it are considered to be critical corridors owing to the role they play in connecting the country’s geopolitical zones. But to travel through most of them is a hazardous experience. Within the quarter under WHILE CALLING ON review, the NBS RELEVANT AGENCIES TO explained that STAY AWAKE TO THEIR speed violation was reported as the major RESPONSIBILITIES, WE ALSO CALL ON THE cause of road crashes FEDERAL GOVERNMENT in the country and it accounted for 50.65 TO STEP UP ITS REPAIRS per cent of the total OF ROAD NETWORKS number of fatalities.

It also noted that tyre burst and dangerous driving followed closely as they both accounted for 8.59 per cent and 8.40 per cent respectively of the total road crashes recorded. Added to the foregoing reasons is the fact that most road networks in the country are in terrible conditions.

According to the NBS, a total of 8,437 Nigerians got injured in the road traffic crashes recorded in Q2 2018. Additionally, the report stated that a total

Letters to the Editor

of 1,331 Nigerians got killed in the road traffic crashes recorded in Q2 2018. If we are to stop such carnage on our roads, we must begin to hold critical stakeholders in the transport sector accountable. But to compound the challenge, in the crowded field of reckless drivers in Nigeria, tanker drivers stand out.

Much as we appreciate the useful services rendered by the owners of these oil tankers and vehicles, we want to insist that they should render their services carefully and within the ambit of the traffic rules and regulations in order not to endanger the lives of innocent citizens.

B T H I S DAY EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI DEPUTY EDITOR DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE

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

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

NORTH KOREA, NIGERIA AND FAKE NEWS

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claim has been circulating online that North Korea leader, Kim Jung Un expressed his interest in re-colonizing two West African countries, Nigeria and Ghana. The claim was first published by an obscure news website abiapulse.com, which apparently tried to shore up the veracity of the story by naming Al Jazeera as the source of the statement allegedly made by the North Korean leader.

The report was further given prominence on another website, Spynigeria.ng.

“They (Nigeria and Ghana) have all the natural resources in abundance to make them the most important and sought-after countries in the world but corruption is a major problem and a curse to them. Give me just a year and I will transform these two countries into first class countries that will attract businesses all over the world.

Nigeria should give in; Ghana should give in and let us colonize them for the second time so they will eventually learn how to run a country.”

ased on the NBS data, we are convinced that the three causes of road crashes in Nigeria are not humanly impossible to overcome.

Chief among them being over speeding or violation of speed limits, which is essentially and by all means an attitudinal issue which can be dealt with by stepping up regulations against speed limit violation, as well as placing appropriate speed breakers on highways and intercity road networks.

The other two which are tyre burst and dangerous driving are equally surmountable using regulations which the FRSC, Vehicle Inspection Offices (VIOs) in the states and Police traffic departments can enforce and get people to abide by without compromise.

Finally, it is no surprise that the mess which has become of the country’s roads would in some ways contribute to the crashes experienced on them, especially when motorists continuously meander through large portions of crumbled highways trying to avoid potholes and dilapidated portions, thus increasing risks of crashes. While calling on relevant agencies of the government to stay awake to their responsibilities as the Yuletide gets closer and get those who engage in bad road habits apprehended, we also call on the federal government to step up its repairs of road networks holding heavy movement of people and goods at least now that the rains have stopped in most parts of the country.

CDD Fact Checkers ran an integrity check on the entire claim with a view to determining if such a statement was actually made by the North Korean leader. To do so, our fact checkers searched through Al Jazeera, a recognized global news network, while similar searches were conducted on several other globally reputed news agencies to see if such statement was reported.

Our findings indicate no such news item was published, broadcast or promoted on Al Jazeera. The claim by the websites that the North Korea leader stated his interest to colonize the two West African countries, is fake news. CDD calls on the public to beware of the several forms and strands of fake news, misinformation and disinformation making the rounds, especially as Nigeria counts down to the 2019 polls.

Obscure news sources must be treated with utmost circumspection; news from these sources must therefore be verified before sharing.

Idayat Hassan, Director, CDD Senior Communications Officer

AN OPEN LETTER TO ABANYI SUGH

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here is no meaningful development in almost every part of Benue State but the situation in Mbakyan community area of Kwande Local Government, where you came from appears to be worst and most devastating.

Mbakyan community is one of the abandoned places that lack the basic needs of life despite the contributions of its people in electing leaders and ensuring the upholding of peace and order for the smooth running of every administration in power.

It is a thing of joy and hope to see you (Abanyi Sugh) emerged as a State Assembly candidate for Kwande west constituency under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). It is surely an opportunity for Mbakyan people to support you and ensure your victory.

The people of Inanev and IshagevYa that constituted Kwande West would indeed vote you for demon-

strating the fear of God in everything you do. Your types are rare and if they seek for leadership positions should be given to enable them govern in a way that can touch the lives of the common ones in the society.

Sir, the role you played long ago regarding a misunderstanding between the two different parts of Mbakyan Community on land issue, which was eventually resolved without bloodshed has demonstrated love, peace and unity in your character.

I have known you as a devoted Christian, a patriotic citizen and a man of his words. You hate injustice and you are God fearing.

I pray that you deviate not from what I have known you for and succeed in your political pursuit to help rescue your people from the neglect and refutation of democratic dividends.

Awunah Pius Terwase, Mpape, Abuja

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THISDAYt FRIDAY DECEMBER 14, 2018

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY DECEMBER 14, 2018

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG

POLITICS

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

PERSPECTIVE

In Search of Transformational Leaders ‘Wale Oluwade

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hy do certain leaders succeed and others fail? What are the attributes that make for exceptionally great leaders?

What kind of man or woman is needed as President leading Africa’s most populous nation? As Nigerians prepare to elect the next president for a four-year tenure,, the choice before is is very critical. We can’t afford to miss it.

The leaders who succeed as presidents or prime ministers do so because they possess certain distinctive skills set. These are usually not hard stuff like education, professional and work experience, though these are equally vital. But possession of a Harvard, Cambridge or other Ivy League university degree isn’t a guarantee of leadership success. In my study of transformational leaders, the indisputable evidence points towards certain skills which are weighted far above academic or professional distinction. Modern human resource experts focus more on these latter attributes than the former in hiring top executives. So what are these?

Transformational leaders, in the long run, must be great or excellent in the following so-called ‘soft skills’;

Strategic Thinking Anyone who has ever accomplished great and sometimes, even impossible feats, had this strategic capability! Be it Abraham, Moses, David and Solomon. Even Jesus and Mohammed, they had this ability. It is the secret of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Deng Xiaoping, Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Lee Kuan Yew, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Barrack Obama and Alex Ferguson. Strategic Thinking is a mindset that allows you to see the invisible and do the impossible. It enables one to explore the immense and limitless possibilities of the human mind! That innate ability to dare where even angels dread to thread.

Before Singapore was transformed from a ghetto third to first world nation, Lee Kuan Yew saw the end in his mind’s eyes. He envisioned the possibility of the new Singapore and was under no illusions as to the daunting task to make it a reality. Yet with this clear objective, he and his team set to task and built a 21st Century miracle out of unimaginable poverty.

On the other hand, here we are in Nigeria,

Mandela

Obama

King

still struggling with 5,000 MW of electricity after 58-years post-independence and tens of billions of dollars down the drain with nothing to show for it except darkness.

Strategic Thinking is the most important of all the skills and competencies you need in life.

“As a man thinks, so he is.” All the battles of life, won or lost, begin and end in the mind. No man can rise beyond the capacity of his mind.

Over 300 years after Darwin, life is essentially still about ‘survival of the fittest. It is the fittest mind that ultimately triumpjs in the shark infested oceans of life.

Adams (Vice President), Alexander Hamilton (Secretary of treasury), Thomas Jefferson (Secretary of State), and so forth. Suffice to say, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, both went on to become the second and third US presidents respectively. Consider Barack Obama, he made Joe Biden and Hilary Clinton, former co-contestants Vice President and Secretary of State respectively, and the latter in my view, won the presidential elections of 2016. Team building is an important skill. Great leaders want people around them who can look them in the eye and tell them the brutal truths as they are and not fawning courtiers and sycophants who deal in lies and propaganda. Whether it is in politics, business or whatever human endeavor, this attribute is a great and invaluable necessity that separate great leaders from mediocrity.

major strategic ally and this has endured. Also, at the end of the US civil war, the post-war leaders didn’t treat the southern region as conquered subjects. Likewise, at the end of second world war, the allied powers didn’t set out to destroy Germany and Japan, but did exactly the opposite.

Excellent Team Builder Great and excellent leaders who truly make positive impact and leave lasting legacy of service and development are able to build superior teams of strong and capable individuals around themselves. In his seminal book, ‘Good to Great’, Jim Collins highlighted the cases of certain leadership models that thrive on the concept of ‘a general and his thousand helps’ which ultimately leads to failure! On the other hand, transformational leaders succeed in building enduring and successful nations or businesses because they surround themselves with extremely capable and in some cases, even far more capable lieutenants than themselves.

George Washington was the first president of the USA but he surrounded himself with John

Win -Win Mentality Great leaders are winners, but they differ from others in that winning isn’t just about them, but that all, including their supposed enemies or opponents emerge as co-winners.

This was the sentiment espoused by Gen. Yakubu Gowon after Nigeria’s civil war when he famously said; “There is no victor nor vanquished!” never mind that perhaps this was mere sloganeering. Also, after the US war of independence with the British, America, deemed it expedient to make Great Britain her

Courage Great leaders have the innate ability to take very hard decisions. As Nelson Mandela said; “Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act even in the face of fear.” There are many sacred cows that have stunted the progress of Nigeria. Until these are eliminated, we will continue in this journey to nowhere: Religion, ethnicity, mediocrity, corruption and injustice. Until these monsters are slayed, this nation will never attain her potential. Consider religion. There is no other great nation that gives undue attention to religion as we do here.

We are so religious we even use tax payers’ money to send thousands on pilgrimage to Israel and Saudi Arabia annually. And how is it that in spite of our loud religiousity, our country is perhaps the most dangerous place to live on earth? We need a man who will slay these monsters.

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The Choice Before Ndi Imo Charles Odibo

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t last the electioneering campaign has kicked-off. One state that will be closely watched is Imo State.

The state, which was created in 1976, has largely been in the news for the wrong reasons because of the actions of its Governor, Owelle Rochas Anayo Okorocha, who, thankfully, is also completing his second term in office. His leaving office is generating as much furore as his entrance in 2011, on the back of the self-inflicted unpopularity of then governor, Ikedi Ohakim, accused of acquiescing to the humiliation of a Catholic Priest in a state whose population is over 80% Catholic.

If Okorocha is not arbitrarily cutting civil service working days from five to three, he is reported to be coercing civil servants and pensioners to sign-off percentages of their earnings; purportedly setting-up “Imo-Air”; making a mockery of the state by constructing a statue of indicted former President Jacob Zuma of South Africa; creating a laughable Ministry of Happiness and Couples’ Fulfillment (sorry, Purpose Fulfillment); constantly attacking a sacred institution, the church and openly threatening a revered Catholic Cleric, Archbishop Anthony Obinna; publicly admonishing the youth to take to robbery instead of smoking Indian hemp; introducing “iberiberism” into governance lexicon. The

outlandish actions are legion.

Worse still, Okorocha is leaving Imo State poorer than he met it in 2011 and this will be a major issue in the campaign that could weigh against the APC governorship candidate .

Whereas he claims that Imo does not owe any bank or contractor, available data from the National Bureau of Statistics, Debt Management Office, Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, show that Imo’s domestic debt grew from N26b in 2011, when he took office, to N93b at the end of 2016, with no commensurate growth in infrastructure.

Whereas he claims to be Imo’s best performing governor till date (including Sam Mbakwe), Imo Economic Development Initiative (IEDI), a group of accomplished Imo citizens reminded him in January that Imo ranks 34 out of 36 states in the ease of doing business and has slipped from 17th position in 2014 to 22nd in 2017 on sustainability and viability indices.

They also reminded him that despite his government’s considerable investments into legacy industries like Adapalm, Standard Shoe Factory, Cardboard and Packaging, Resin and Paint factories, they are still comatose.

A recurring contentious issue in Imo governorship race is adherence to the well-known Imo Charter, agreed to by the founding fathers of the state about the sanctity of rotation of the office of the Governor of Imo state amongst the tripod that makes up Imo – Okigwe, Orlu, and

Owerri senatorial zones.

Between 1976 and date, Okigwe zone, through the “immortal” Sam Mbakwe and Ikedi Ohakim have held office for 8 years and three months; Orlu Zone, through Achike Udenwa and Rochas Okorocha have held office for 16 years (when Okorocha completes his 2nd term); while Owerri zone, through Evan Enwerem has held office for only one year and ten months.

So, APC’s insistence on choosing its candidate from Orlu zone (Senator Hope Uzodinma) and embattled APGA’s choice of its candidate (Senator Ifeanyi Ararume) from Okigwe zone are therefore ruffling feathers. Owerri zone, which feels cheated, is therefore calling for equity as enshrined in the Imo Charter.

However, over and above these are the electorate’s perception, and thereby acceptability of the candidates for the March 2 epic contest.

To be sure, there are three gladiators, though over 20 political parties are presenting governorship candidates in Imo State. They are Rt. Honourable Emeka Ihedioha who emerged PDP’s candidate after what has been widely acclaimed as the most transparent, free and fair party primary election in Imo state; Senator Hope Uzodinma, who emerged as APC’s candidate after two contentious primary elections, which outcome, the rankled Governor Okorocha is still contesting; and Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, whose choice as APGA’s

consensus candidate, after three failed attempts to hold a credible primary election, has deeply polarised the party leading to mass defections.

The choice before the Imo electorate is therefore pretty much clear because the three major contenders have name recognition in Imo State – but for different reasons, based on pedigree or perception of character.

Born on 24 March 1965 and educated at University of Lagos, Emeka Ihedioha represented the Aboh Mbaise/Ngor Okpala Federal Constituency. He is also the former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives.

In 1992, he was appointed Press Officer to then Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Iyorchia Ayu. Barely a year later he was appointed as Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Senate President of that era. He was named as Special Assistant to the Presidential Adviser on Utilities (July 1999), as Special Assistant Media and Publicity to the President of Senate (November 1999), and as Special Assistant on Political Matters to the Vice President (September 2001). He won a seat into the House of Representative as a member representing Aboh-MbasieNgor Okpala Federal Constituency of Imo State in 2003.

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY DECEMBER 14, 2018

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PERSPECTIVE

Towards Paradigm Shift for a New Nigeria Ejike Onuogu

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here is power in unity. There is power in dialogue. There is power in prayer. As much as there is power in brotherly love. A family in crisis comes together and everyone joins hands in prayer. We look onto the heavens asking God to intercede and bring peace and healing in our time. We fast and meditate and take steps backwards to re-tune the mind and a temperament juiced with anger and on this premise come together as one united family to bring the best out of one another and march into the future like brothers and sisters on a common cause, overcoming the embers of war in this trying moment of our history as a nation.

This should be our prayer and mantra in this phase of our national discourse, when multiple forces of hegemonies fuel a centrifuge of destruction and carnage at a time when our nation should be consolidating on the gains of diversity, religious tolerance and national unity.

The birth of any nation has never been an accident of history. The amalgamation of the North and South by Lord Luggard in 1914 was not an accident of history. Rather it was a remix of the biblical tower of Babel with new instructions to seek God in spirit and love rather than earthly sustenance.

The proponents of a Biafra nation are fine men and women who mean well for the ideals they pursue. They are our brothers and sisters and we share the same blood. They must not be disparaged. We must not forget the words of our progenitor, the late Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu.

In paraphrasing his words, wars are an aberration. Across the world, wars have never solved any problems but have ended up creating more problems than solutions.

True reconciliation comes with revisiting history and performing a root-cause analysis of what went wrong and taking responsibility for one’s actions. True reconciliation comes with holding each other’s hands as we build a bridge across our void of differences.

As mortals we have permitted the vicissitudes of earthly and human sentiments to overshadow our innate spiritual endowment, the power of love, acceptance and accommodation. We are losing grip of a torch passed on to us by our forbearers, men and women who fought and

Abubakar

Obi

died that this nation may live.

It is true that 48 years after the civil war the Igbos, as a group still feel excluded from the centre of our political discourse. It is also true that the Igbos are the least united when it comes to civil discourse and dialogue. This has come at a huge cost to the Igbo ensemble, as we have been unable to present a common ideology and framework at any national conference. We have used the cloak of freedom of expression to sabotage each other, as the pursuit of political relevance is one often built on a template of egocentrism.

The chronology of events preceding the civil war and leading to the coup of 1966 need to be revisited and form the bedrock of our national reconciliation. We must have the courage to explain under what circumstances the North lost Prime Minister Balewa and the Sarduana of Sokoto in one day in a coup primarily spearheaded by an officer of Igbo extraction and if this was to sanitise Nigeria, why the East did not pay a similar prize.

It is true that in the sixties the South had more opportunities with respect to western education.

But this was not so until the British colonial master decided to partner with the African, teaching him his language, building schools and churches, using him as court interpreters. However, the same colonial master who introduced religion to the East, South and West of Nigeria, hopped over to the North and introduced politics and the essence of dominating power, hence the

emergence of a militarised north. This divide and conquer apparatus has been Nigeria’s nightmare for decades. It is the enemy within created by an external force that never had the interest of the Nigerian nation at heart.

A similar legion of white explorers had sailed west across the Atlantic Ocean and upon arrival found a new haven. This time, this newfound land was too far to operate from Europe.

The scramble and partition for Africa has continued to bear fruits of discord amongst our people as neocolonialism employs covert mechanisms to destabilize emerging democracies in Africa by pitching brother against brother.

Until the black man wakes up from slumber, he will continue to be a victim of a well-orchestrated vicious cycle, which continues to exploit his areas of vulnerability, namely language, ethnic heritage and religion. The call for the emancipation of the Indigenous People of Biafra( IPOB ) is one such example.

It is a call to destroy 58 years of independence.

It is a call to set the hand of the national clock backwards. Indeed many of the protagonists of IPOB had not been born at the time of Biafra.

None ever heard the sound of a machine gun, never saw a limb severed, nor watched a comrade fall in battle. The war songs by this young brigade may be melodious, nostalgic and emotional but beyond the melody is nothing but utter destruction, of precious human lives, of a lifetime of investments, and infrastructure. At

the end there will be no victor or vanquished but bereaved families on both sides of the isle.

Even amongst the Igbos who cry wolf, there are all forms of discrimination perpetrated by the Igbos against their own brothers. For example, when Theodore Oji was Governor of Abia State, he drove out all civil servants of Imo origin asking them to return to Imo State and find their feet. Yet, his Lagos State counterpart, Governor Fashola appointed Igbos in his cabinet.

He did not ask them to return to their state of origin.

Among the Igbos the Osu caste system is rife and other Igbos are prohibited from intermarrying with this group. The emergence of western religion has not helped terminate this inhumanity. The use of house helps in Igbo land is another form of modern day slavery as these house helps are subjected to dehumanising treatment. Many Igbo businessmen employ house helps who run their business for seven to 10 years hoping that the Master would help them stand on their feet having learned the nitty gritty of the business. They end up of being falsely accused of one wrongdoing and expelled without any benefit. It is among the Igbos that a major accomplishment of a serving vice president was building six prisons within four years in office.

Since the civil war the Igbos have produced state governors, Ministers of Health, Education, Aviation, Ambassadors, just to mention a few. Let us take stock of their accomplishment. We spend state money erecting the statue of individuals who have no relevance in our daily lives while workers’ salaries are not paid. We masquerade as labour leaders, run for public office only to end up as wolves in sheep clothing. We claim we have a government, yet the Enugu-Onitsha expressway is now grazing field for cattle. The Enugu- Port Harcourt expressway is a habitat for armed robbers and kidnappers. We have a government yet no local government chairman has ever built or repaired a road, school, hospital or civic center but instead left their communities barren, with youth unemployment reaching rooftop. This has resulted in restiveness amongst our youths and the outcome is the emergence of groups like the Niger Delta Avengers, MASSOB, IPOB and the like.

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

Understanding that Outburst from Ken Nnamani Anthony Nwachukwu

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his is yet another open challenge to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, towards self-rediscovery and public trust. The party must show broadbased determination to completely part with the vestiges of those self-destructive practices which catalyzed its fall from power.

For instance, Enugu State has literally shown that despite being a PDP state, they are rather at peace with the candidacy of Muhammadu Buhari of the APC. This is largely due to the much-touted bi-partisan disposition of the Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi administration. But critics have argued that the governor has taken this stance solely for the reason of self-preservation.

He was among those that openly protested the emergence of Peter Obi as PDP vice presidential candidate. He was among those that shunned the meeting between the PDP presidential candidate Abubakar Atiku and Igbo elites at Enugu. He was among the South East leaders that visited President Buhari to appreciate him for his professed love for the region . The recent visit of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo by every standard showcased the unalloyed commitment of Enugu state PDP government to the re-election of Buhari.

Governor Ugwuanyi has been attacked and called l sorts of names for finding it expedient to erect in strategic areas of the state, solidarity billboards with campaign-size portraits of Buhari implying that the visit was all about Bjhari. PDP faithful were massively mobilized and made to queue behind the broom-wielding APC members at the event. While the governor’s view this as a demonstration of his large heart and an accommodating spirit, haters quickly condemn him for not showing similar love to Atiku Abubabkar.

There are unsubstantiated claims that the Enugu State governors may be one of the PDP-

governed state executives who it’s National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus allege are being arm-twisted by the APC-led federal government to concede some senatorial and federal constituencies in their respective states to deflate the tide of federal might arrayed against them. Another state that is in a similar quagmire is Akwa Ibom State, where Governor Udom Emmanuel is said to be under serious pressure to enter some form of negotiation with power brokers at the centre. Governors Emmanuel and Ugwuanyi who have travelled with Buhari outside the country at different times are being pressured to ensure that the president gets, at least, 25 percent of votes cast in the presidential election in their regions.

Governor Ugwuanyi was widely reported in the media as saying that he “has discussed with a former governor in the southeast that he will vote according to his conscience. He said that everybody deserves second term. He said that he as governor of Enugu needs second term, so he will not stop the president from enjoying second term. He said he will support the president if he seeks second term.” Though the governor has since explained that his statement was taken out of context, his accusers continue to point to this as evidence of his support for Buhari.

Out of the six aspirants who expressed interests to represent the Enugu-East Senatorial district on the platform of the PDP, the nomination exercise was allegedly manipulated to favour a contestant that was neither screened nor seen at the venue of the primary.

Owing to the skewed process, the emergence of the former governor of the state, Chimaroke Nnamani as PDP senatorial candidate has continued to be criticised. For some reason, Nnamani has become upbeat, courted by the leading political parties. Therefore, the former governor of Enugu State picked the PDP senatorial ticket for Enugu East, almost without

any serious effort. He was further attracted by other concessions openly made to accommodate., in the believe that his influence curtail the penetration of the APC into that senatorial district.

Those opposed to the Nnamani candidacy argue he should not have been rewarded for opposing the PDP I’m the past. Chimaroke Nnamani left the party and founded the People for Democratic Change, PDC. On this platform, he contested and equally sponsored candidates against the PDP since 2011. He lost to the PDP in 2011 and 2015 but refused to accept defeat.

He dragged the PDP and its candidate, Senator Gilbert Nnaji, to the election tribunal. He lost and still took the matter to the Appeal Court where he finally lost. He did not return to PDP several fence mending efforts. So, on what ground is Nnamani flying the PDP flag?

Granted, Nnamani entered into plea bargain with regard to his corruption cases, he should not handed another opportunity to public office on a platter of gold. Is Chimaroke Nnamani still marketable, particularly as he had lost two consecutive elections in the recent past?

A few questions are begging for answers.

How many people purchased senatorial forms in Enugu North zone? How many people were replaced in Enugu West, if there was a uniform policy? What offence did Ogbuefi Ozomgbachi commit, if Ofor Chukwuegbo could scale through? Why didn’t an Ogui person replace Chime Oji if Ngwo is foreclosed for whatever political expediency? Why did Nkanu West LGA retain the House of Representative seat if the incumbent Emeka Ujam has fallen out of favour? Why was Nkanu East LGA shortchanged in the contest despite fielding eminently qualified aspirants? If Kingsley Ebenyi was not suitable again, must his replacement be from a particular family that has tasted it all, politically? What now becomes the political fate of Isi-Uzo LGA within the context of the

senatorial zone?

Why did PDP allow members to waste such huge electoral investments on a still-birth project?

At the vanguard of public condemnation of this orchestrations, former senate president Ken Nnamani, took the PDP to the cleaners for declaring someone a winner in an election he did not participate in. According to him, “Chimaroke Nnamani did not swear to any affidavit because such sensitive document cannot be sworn to by proxy, yet some people went behind to declare him winner of the PDP primary. I know that there is no law in our land authorising someone to swear affidavit for another person. I am saying this because those who perpetrated this fraud may be matching to prison. This action shows that the PDP’s impunity is rearing its ugly head in Enugu East senatorial zone. Our political process in the country as well as the zone are on trial. We are going to resist this undemocratic act, because I am an interested party in this matter. We cannot have a senator by proxy. If this matter is not properly handled, the development is capable of igniting political crisis in the senatorial district. As much as we know, Chimaroke was not seen anywhere. He is still sick and outside the country; he is on his sick bed. Even if somebody filled the forms for him by proxy, the electoral law demands he must swear to affidavits in court by himself. The conspirators might go to prison.”

Meanwhile, the APC senatorial candidate in the zone was among those that were shortchanged in the manipulated PDP primaries including several other APC candidates.

Consequently, the popular maxim in Enugu State today is: party is immaterial, candidates only matter. This is an open challenge to the national leadership of the PDP. Anthony Nwachukwu writes from Awka

20

THISDAYt '3*%": %&$&.#&3 Ċč ċĉĊđ

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T H I S D AY ˞ ͯͲ, 2018

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET OBB OVERNIGHT

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D E C E M B E R S & P INDEX INDEX LEVEL 1-DAY MONTH-TO-DATE

͹Ͳ͡Ë&#x203A;Ͳ͜ Ďą ÍŽË&#x203A;ͯ͹Ϲ ÍŽË&#x203A;ÍŽÍŻĎą

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

7 , 2 0 1 8 S & P INDEX 1/4 TO DATE ÍŽË&#x203A;ʹ͹Ϲ YEAR TO DATE Í´Ë&#x203A;͎;Ϲ

EXCHANGE RATE N306.85/1US DOLLAR* *AS AT LAST FRIDAY

Quick Takes NPA MD Tasks Fire OďŹ&#x192;cers

TheManagingDirectorofNigerianPortsAuthority(NPA),HadizaBalaUsman has called on officers and men of the Fire Service Department to re-dedicate themselves to the vision, mission and core values of the authoritybydisplayingprofessionalabilityandagilityanddemonstrating high sense of responsibility in the discharge of their duties in line with the management thrust of operational efficiency.

She made this call while addressing graduands of Squad 50 of the Fire ServiceCadetsattheirpassingoutparadeatNPAFireServiceCentral Training School, Apapa Lagos. â&#x20AC;&#x153;NPA Fire Service Department has a principle of culture and tradition built on excellence which makes it one of the best in the country and you must key in and imbibe this culture while discharging your dutiesâ&#x20AC;?

Hadiza stated.

TheMDfurtherassertedthatasaresponsiveandresponsiblemanagement, theauthoritywillcontinuetogivemaximumsupportandcooperationto the department andthatmanagementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sgestureshouldbereciprocated by the officers by way of dedication to duties.

Represented by the Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Dr SekonteDavies,sheaddedthatgoingbytheskillsdemonstratedwhile performingtheirdrills,managementisconvincedthattheofficershave been adequately trained to impact positively on the society.

SAHCO AT STOCK EXCHANGE

Executive Director, Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO Plc) Boma Ukwunna; Chief Executive OďŹ&#x192;cer, The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Oscar Onyema, and Executive Director Sales & Marketing, SAHCO, Olaniyi Adigun, Skyway Aviation during presentation of the replica of the closing gong to directors oďŹ&#x192;cials at the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Facts Behind the OďŹ&#x20AC;erâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; presentation to capital market stakeholders at the exchange in Lagos...recently

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Huge Debts, Recruitment May Push FAAN Into Bankruptcyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chinedu Eze With huge debts running into over N30 billion and the recruitment of over 2,000 personnel in just one year, workers of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) have warned that the agency may become bankrupt.

To revamp the agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finances, the workers said that the organisations indebted to them must pay and the agency must stop the recruitment of more workers.

According to inside sources, the number of workers of the agency, including pensioners is over 7,000 and with heavy overhead, it would be

AVIATION extremely difficult for FAAN to maintain the airports, pay its workers and carry out projects.

THISDAY learnt that the recent plan by FAAN to withdraw services from airports that owe it huge amount of money was part of the measures to get back operational funds. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our revenue is running extremely very low due to debts and in addition to debts, FAAN has been recruiting since the last three years. These recruitments are not advertised or based on competence but in the last one year, FAAN has

recruited about 2,000 people.

They just send lists to us and we must take them. This has added to the financial burden. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We cannot say that there is really reduction in revenue generation. In fact, there may be an increase, but our overhead is very high. The International Air Transport Association (IATA), which collects most of our aeronautical revenues do not pay in time. They pay every two weeks,â&#x20AC;? one of the workers told THISDAY. A FAAN official, however, disclosed that since the management of the agency introduced the cashless system for revenue collection,

the loopholes through which funds were hitherto diverted had been closed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;About 80 per cent of such loopholes have been closed but small airports on the country side are yet to embrace the cashless system, so those are the areas where we may still have leakages,â&#x20AC;? the official said.

He said that FAANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revenue could have been boosted if there are night landing at some airports. He cited example of Calabar, Enugu and Owerri airports, saying that cargo movement Continued on page 22

Nigeria, Norway Trade Volume Projected to Hit $60bn Eromosele Abiodun The new Norway Consul General to Nigeria and Chief Executive Officer of Marine Platforms, Taofik Adegbite, has predicted that Nigeria, Norway trade volume currently in the region of $30 billion (N10.8 trillion) will hit $60 billion in a few years when the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investment in maritime, fisheries would yield results and its oil major Equinol E&P starts production.

Adegbite stated this in a chat with THISDAY to outline his plans as the new Norway consul general to Nigeria.

On his immediate and long term plans, he said he wants to see how both countries can both co-create value, which will stand the test of time.

Doing so, he stated, will help bring advantages of Norway

ECONOMY in several sector into Nigeria, traditionally in Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oil and gas space, maritime and other sectors.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;By the time Equinol goes into production, the volume of trade between both countries will be sky high.

What we have to do now is to expand the basket of sectors for investment. For example, renewable energy, this is new and just coming up in Nigeria.

We are also looking at going into aqua culture space such as fisheries, maritime and also vessel ownership and ship building in Nigeria. Most interestingly, as we are seeing today, there loads of Norwegian ships now been chartered by Nigerians than more than before. So, honestly speaking we can see the volume of trade between

both countries doubling. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That will be amazing especially because Norway is a country that has a lot to offer. Beyond all these that I have highlighted it is important we have to start looking at our cultural ties and exchange programmes. These are things that we equally want to look into, to promote Nigerian culture out there and you will be so amazed that a lot of Nigerians are very popular in Oslo. We have a lot of Nigerian culture and tradition to export so that we can arouse that curiosity of Norwegian of the Nigerian culture, heritage and art. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Then on the flip side to make Norway that tourist destination for Nigerians because there are a lot of fantastic places to visit in that country. We want that cultural linkages in tourism create awareness that Nigeria

is not just, as perceived in the world that African enclave where it is all dark and bad.

We want to see Norwegians travelling to explore and see the beauty of the country and Nigerians too in return.â&#x20AC;?

The execution strategy, he added, will now be how to do sectoral linkages, pair-to-pair introductions. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are working on the fisheries sector and Equinol the Norwegian major exploration and production (E&P) has preference in Nigeria and is trying to do more in that space.

The company is equally looking at other potential, looking at being an operator in Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oil and gas space. When we look at the oil service space, there is a lot of Norwegian service companies backing Continued on page 22

Ethiopian Airlines OďŹ&#x20AC;ers 25% Discount

Ethiopian Airlines is offering 25 per cent discount on fares to selected destinationsfromLagostoallittravelpartnersasawayofappreciating its esteemed customers and in celebration of the Yuletide season,.

According to the airline, sales of the discounted fares commenced on December 12 to 31, 2018. Ethiopian Airlines said the activation date for booked tickets by customers would commence on January 1, 2019.

The East African carrier said the selected destinations include: Dubai International Airport; Khartoum International Airport Sudan; Cairo International Airport; Beirutâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Rafic Hariri International Airport; King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah; Hamad International Airport, Doha; Kuwait International Airport; King Khalid International Airport; Riyadh, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.

Otherdestinationare:ShanghaiPudongInternationalAirport;Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Lapangan Terbang Changi, Singapore; Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Nairobi; Kigali International Airport, Kigali Rwanda.

Itfurtherstatedthatthefaresdiscountalsocoversdestinationssuchas EntebbeInternationalAirportEntebbe,Uganda,O.R.TamboInternational Airport, Johannesburg; Cape Town International Airport; AĂŠroport InternationalDeDjibouti,DullesInternationalAirport;WashingtonD.C, LosAngelesInternationalAirport, Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;hareInternationalAirport,Chicago.

EthiopianAirlinesstatedthatcustomerswillhavetotravelonNewYear day to enjoy the 25 per cent discount.

DanaWinsBestDomesticAirlineAward2018

OneofNigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sleadingairlinesDanaAirhaswontheawardforAfricaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s BestAirlineoftheyear2018inthedomesticoperationscategory,atthe Development in Africa Merits Award held recently in Lagos.

DAMAawardsisayearlyconferenceandawardsceremonyorganised byDeltaBusinessSchoolLimitedtorecognisecorporateorganisations and individuals who have contributed immensely to the development ofAfricathroughtheirservice,humanitarianactivities,businessmodel and creativity.

The merit award also celebrates leading businesses and academics in Nigeria and Africa who have raised the bar, and setting new standards through creative and innovative products, ideas and services.

TheMediaandCommunicationsManagerofDanaAir,KingsleyEzenwa ,whoreceivedtheawardonbehalfoftheairlinesaid:â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wearehonoured to be recognised as Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Airline in the domestic category.This award is a confirmation that Africa and indeed the world is watching and we are glad that we are making Nigeria proud with our customercentric products geared towards improving customer experience and value added services.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; He noted that â&#x20AC;&#x153;exceeding the flying aspirations our guests and giving back to the society in which we operate are part of our secrets of success having flown for 10 years in Nigeria, and this awardisamotivationforustocontinuetoraisethebarofouroperational efficiency, safety and service delivery.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our commitment to our core values, passion for the industry and our superior understanding of the flying public and the industry have kept usgoingdespitethechallenges,andourmissionistoconstantlyearnthe loyaltyandrespectofourcustomersbyconsistentlydemonstratingour commitmenttoservice,andprovidingaffordableregionalairtransport servicesthatfocusoninnovation,qualityandserviceexcellence,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; hesaid.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has in the last 18 months upgraded navigational infrastructure in strategic airports in the countryâ&#x20AC;?

Managing Director, NAMA,

Captain Fola Akinkuotu

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T H I S D AY Ëž ͯͲË&#x153; Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

BUSINESSWORLD â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;HUGE DEBTS, RECRUITMENT MAY PUSH FAAN INTO BANKRUPTCYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

would have been high this season and aforementioned airports could have been receiving cargo this season, which would have earned revenue for FAAN. The workers also decried the increase in overhead costs and said that since the privatisation of public power supply, the cost of power has multiplied while its services have not improved. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Before the privatisation of Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), which we pay in Lagos alone was from N30 million to N40 million.

The highest we had ever paid was N200 million, but since the privatisation, our electricity bill is now above N500 million monthly. Sometimes we pay close to N1 billion . This is in Lagos alone. Yet we also have to pay huge sums for diesel (AGO) and because of poor power supply, we spend more money to power our generators. In most airports, there is no dedicated public power supply,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), FAAN branch, Idowu Adeshola said the unions formed a joint action committee to press for improved welfare for workers and would be staging a protest at the freedom square located at FAAN premises in Lagos today.

According to him, workers will raise issues such as the debts and recruitment of workers, as the unions must insist that FAAN must take urgent action to ensure that those indebted to it pay their debts.

NIGERIA, NORWAY TRADE VOLUME PROJECTED TO HIT $60BN

Nigerian service companies.

Our concern now is how we can now formalise that, how do we identify and evaluate that so that we can see areas of improvement. In the area of local content how do we make the Norwegians who has done it successfully to now do a kind of linkage where there would be common wealth creation,â&#x20AC;? he said.

NEWS

FAAN to Guarantee Credit Access to Its Contractors from Banks Chinedu Eze In order to ensure that its contractors have funds to execute projects awarded them by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the agency has decided to work with banks to provide credit access to the contractors.

FAAN said it took this bold step to eliminate impediments to the execution of its projects hampered by poor credit access by the contractors, as it embarks on major airport upgrade and modernisation.

The agency said its decision is in tandem with the federal governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s innovative step at ensuring and encouraging better access to funding especially for small and medium scale enterprises, noting that it would enhance the GDP growth and help diversify nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy.

FAAN said this would assist in developing a financing mechanism aimed at optimising the cash flow of FAAN and also provide the much-needed support to our contractors, to enable them access opportunities for working capital enhancement.

The agency also remarked that it would help FAAN improve on its revenue generation and collection; improve its financial efficiency and enhance its service delivery at all the airports under its management.

The agency said that the scope of work involves working with selected financial institutions, in order to provide liquidity to

its major contractors, through direct and contingent funding.

Speaking while hosting its contractors and commercial banks in Lagos recently, the Managing Director of the agency, who was represented by Nurudeen Daura, the director of engineering, noted that the forum is aimed at developing a financing mechanism which

will optimise the cash flow of FAAN, while also providing the much needed support to its contractors to enable them access opportunities for working capital enhancement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The scope involves working with selected financial institutions, in order to provide liquidity to our major contractors through direct and contingent

funding,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Stating that investment opportunities abound in the industry, especially FAAN, he encouraged the banks and contractors to take advantage of these opportunities through constructive partnership in the overall interest of all. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wish to mention that aviation industry is highly

technical and capital intensive.

The sector in recent past has undergone incisive and extensive transformation aimed at making our airports comfortable, safe, secure and conducive for commercial purposes. The achievements to date wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have been possible without support from all stakeholders like you.

CREDIT REPORTING WORKSHOP

L-R: Founder CreditRegistry, Mr. Taiwo Ayedun: Senior Partner, Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors, Chief Anthony Idigbe SAN: Managing Director/CEO, CreditRegistry, Mrs. Jameelah Sharrieff-Ayedun: and Macro Prudential Analysis, Financial Policy and Regulation Department, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Dr. Hassan Mahmud at the just concluded Credit Reporting As The Foundation for Credit Infrastructure workshop organised in Lagos recently

Maritime Stakeholders Decry Sectorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Poor Contribution to GDP Eromosele Abiodun A lecturer at the Lagos Business School (LBS), Dr Frank Ojadi and other stakeholders in the maritime industry have bemoaned the non-capturing of the maritime sector in the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gross domestic product (GDP) describing it as worrisome and disturbing.

He disclosed this at the dinner/annual Nigerian Maritime Award (ANMA) organised by the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) held in Lagos.

Ojadi said the Nigerian maritime sector is weak and may not

be able to compete favourably with his contemporaries around the world.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pin down what the Nigerian Maritime Industry contributes to the GDP and this is because 80 to 90 per cent of vessels that come into the country are foreign vessels.

The foreign vessels owners repatriate the profit accrued from the shipping business in Nigeria to their various countries thereby making it difficult for Nigeria to retain the money in the economy.â&#x20AC;?

He, however, urged the federal government to urgently disburse the Cabotage Vessel

Finance Fund (CVFF) for the development of the maritime sector.

According to him, â&#x20AC;&#x153;For the country to harness his huge maritime potential, there is need for the government to administer the ship acquisition funds also known as the Cabotage Vessels Finance Fund (CVFF) and focus on the infrastructure deficit at the seaports.â&#x20AC;?

He stated further that the Maritime University Okerenkoko should be pursued and actualised for training of capacity in the maritime industry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Training vessels should

be provided for the training of seafarers, â&#x20AC;&#x153;he added.

However, declaring the award session open, the Chairman of the event, Uju Tony Nwabunike called for quick completion of the port access roads.

Nwabunike, the President, Association of Nigerian Licenced Customs Agents (ANLCA) who was represented by the Vice President of the association, Kayode Farinto also rues lack of consistent policies in the maritime industry.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;No consistent policy to drive the maritime industry, no port development plans like other developed countries.â&#x20AC;?

According to Nwabunike, Nigeria generated over N10 billion in the maritime industry daily but government still neglect the sector. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nigeria generated over N10 billion daily in the maritime industry. The government generates the revenue from customs duties, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), National Food Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) among other charges but it has been neglected.â&#x20AC;?

Ogbeh Launches Solution to Curtail Armyworm Attacks on Crops James Emejo in Abuja

Group Business Editor

Ă&#x152;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x2039; Ă&#x2019;Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2014;Ă&#x2039; AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

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The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh has launched â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Goldmax Total Crop Protectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, a breakthrough solution for Fall Armyworm (FAW) management and control for protection of farm produce, particularly maize grain.

The product, which was proudly produced by a renowned Nigerian chemist, Prof. Aaron Baba, is organic and had been proven to offer 100 per cent effective control of pests.

Already, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Country Representative to Nigeria, Suffyan Koroma has congratulated the inventor for the solution in the control

of the dreaded FAW, known for its devastating economic impact on food security.

Specifically, the FAO, which offered guidance on its production said Goldmax â&#x20AC;&#x153;complies with the FAO/WHO acceptable class of insecticide.

Therefore, while there are other available means of managing the menace of FAW in affected crops, Goldmax Total Crop Protection, if judiciously used could play a positive role.â&#x20AC;?

However, the minister said the apart from maize, pest had also been known to affect over 80 crops including cassava, yams, millet, sorghum, vegetables and okra.

He said the pest currently attacks maize crop in all states of the federation in both rain fed and irrigated maize farms.

Ogbeh said FAW could cut maize crop yield by more than 50 per cent, thereby widening the already existing gap between supply and demand for maize grains.

He said the prevalence of FAW â&#x20AC;&#x153;poses serious threat to food security and the livelihood of many of our local crops and livestock. It also threatens the commendable efforts of the Federal Government to diversify the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy.â&#x20AC;?

He added that the solution will further enhance the export of farm produce which had hitherto been difficult.

According to him, â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the problems we have when we export things is that people find residues of harmful chemicals on our crops. So they reject them.

This discovery or invention will help solve this problem.â&#x20AC;?

He also attested to the efficacy of the solution which he had personally applied to his farm.

He said: â&#x20AC;?I decided to try it in my farm and to my greatest relief, it solved FAW problem in my farm. Since then, a lot of tests and trials have been conducted by our institutes on its efficacy and I have been informed that NAFDAC has already approved its use.â&#x20AC;?

The minister said there was need to launch the product because â&#x20AC;&#x153;We in Africa are not particularly famous for invention and discoveries. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have over the years been totally and hopelessly dependent on imports, dependent on instructions from far away for

solving our local problems.â&#x20AC;?

The minister, who also inaugurated a national task force, which included the product investor as member to continue to work hard on solving the FAW and associated problems, reiterated the commitment of the current administration to support new breakthrough research in order to solve societal challenges.

He said:â&#x20AC;?We have depended too much on what somebody else has said to us. And since we now have chemists and biologists and others in this country who can do things for us, the duty of this government- and I can say so on behalf of the Federal Government is that we will do everything to give you support.â&#x20AC;?

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BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

NAMA Commences Flight Calibration of Navigational Aids Stories by Chinedu Eze The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) said it has commenced a routine calibration of navigational facilities in 24 airports across the country.

When completed in two weeksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time, the calibration exercise, which is targeted at putting all navigational aids in optimal capacity, would ensure that the facilities generate precise and accurate signals to guarantee the safety of air navigation in the country. Also to be calibrated and commissioned are the newly installed ILS/DME facilities in Lagos and Port Harcourt airports.

The agency therefore, reassured the flying public of the safety of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s airspace as all necessary measures are in place to ensure safe, efficient and seamless flight operations in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the agency said its attention has been drawn to reports that attributed flight delays and cancellations during the Yuletide to obsolete navigational facilities at airports nationwide.

The agency also said that the report indicated that it has not been doing anything in the last 12 months, describing the report as false and noted that NAMA has been upgrading its facilities at every part of the country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We see allegations as totally erroneous and misleading especially when viewed against on-going efforts by the agency in the area of infrastructure upgrade across major airports in Nigeria. There is also the need to put things in proper perspective, as the above insinuations are capable of sending the wrong signals to our teeming airspace users as well as the flying public. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For the records, the agency has in the last 18 months em-

barked on an aggressive upgrade of navigational infrastructure in strategic airports in the country.

For instance, Cat II Instrument Landing Systems /Distance Measuring Equipment (ILS/ DME) have been installed in Kaduna, Lagos, Kano and Port Harcourt airports. In the same vein, installation of Doppler Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range (DVOR) is on-going at Maiduguri airport while that of ILS/DME is also in progress at Benin airport. Upgrade of facilities in other airports is to follow soon,â&#x20AC;? the agency said.

NAMA also said that work has reached an advanced stage on the installation of Cat III ILS in Lagos and Abuja, disclosing that already, a team of NAMA engineers were currently undergoing Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) of the CAT III equipment in the United States of America in preparation for its take-off

by January 2019.

SAHCOL Boss Seeks Right Pricing for Ground Handling Services For ground handling companies in Nigeria to charge the right price for the services rendered to airlines, they must work together.

This was stated by the Managing Director of Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO), Basil Agboarumi recently while at the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;A Night With Basilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, organised by the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC).

Agboarumi, who is the first Public Relations Manager to be elevated as a substantive Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of a major aviation company in Nigeria, lamented that ground handlers are not adequately paid for the services rendered to airlines.

He insisted that the ground handling companies cannot operate in isolation of the entire

industry and called on the federal government to intervene in the charges paid by the airlines.

He also called on the government to grant the ground handling companies waivers on importation of equipment for operation, noting that if such regime could be granted the airlines, it was also pertinent for handlers to be given same privilege. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the time, I think we need cooperation in the industry.

The ground handlers need to come together because we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be isolated from what is happening in the sector. what happens to an aspect of the industry, affects all since the general duty of us in our various segments of the industry is to see how passengers or goods can move from one point to the other.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am one person that believes strongly that ground handling in Nigeria is under-priced and for us to continue to get the kind of ground handling that we require, especially now that things are getting harder for everyone in terms of procurement of equipment, industry must be ready to take the right step for the right of ground handling that we expected. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have been talking to government and government has been so good to the airlines, but I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high time the government looked at the side of the ground handling companies. We need waivers on procurement of equipment, just as the government has granted the airlines. Government should also look at how it can reduce our burdens,â&#x20AC;? he said.

IATA Launches Turbulence Detection System The International Air Transport Association (IATA) said it has launched its Turbulence Aware data resource to help airlines avoid turbulence when planning routes tactically in flight.

Turbulence Aware augments an airlineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to forecast and avoid turbulence by pooling and sharing (in real time) turbulence data generated by participating airlines.

Today airlines rely upon pilot reports and weather advisories to mitigate the impact of turbulence on their operations. These toolsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; while effectiveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;have limitations due to the fragmentation of the data sources, inconsistencies in the level and quality of information available, and the locational imprecision and the subjectivity of the observations. For example, there is no standardized scale for the severity of turbulence that a pilot may report other than a light, moderate or severe scale, which becomes very subjective among different-sized aircraft and pilot experience.

Turbulence Aware improves on the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capabilities by collecting data from multiple contributing airlines, followed by a rigorous quality control.

Then the data is consolidated into a single, anonymized, objective source database which is accessible to participants. Turbulence Aware data is turned into actionable information when fed into an airlineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dispatch or airborne alerting systems. The result is the first global, real-time, detailed and objective information for pilots and operations professionals to manage turbulence. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Turbulence Aware is a great example of the potential for digital transformation in the airline industry. The airline industry has always cooperated on safetyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;its number one priority. Big data is now turbocharging what we can achieve. In the case of Turbulence Aware, the more precise forecasting of turbulence will provide a real improvement for passengers, whose journeys will be even safer and more comfortable,â&#x20AC;?

said IATAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Director General and CEO, Alexandre de Juniac.

The challenge of managing turbulence is expected to grow as climate change continues to impact weather patterns. This has implications for both safety and efficiency of flight.

Turbulence Aware is already generating significant interest among airlines. Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and Aer Lingus have signed contracts; Delta is already contributing their data to the program. â&#x20AC;&#x153;IATAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collaborative approach to creating Turbulence Aware with open source data means that airlines will have access to data to better mitigate turbulence. Using Turbulence Aware in conjunction with Deltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proprietary Flight Weather Viewer app is expected to build on the significant reductions weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen already to both turbulence-related crew injuries and carbon emissions year-overyear,â&#x20AC;? said Deltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior Vice President of Flight Operations, Jim Graham.

FAAN, BASLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Controversial Partnership

MMA2

Chinedu Eze The relationship between the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) is best described as cat and mouse.

Since BASL completed the domestic terminal and has continued to manage the facility, which is known as the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), the relationship between the two organisations has remained bruised and smothered by litigations.

Last Saturday FAAN issued Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), which is the medium for communications in the global aviation industry, that it would withdraw aviation security and search and rescue services from the airports that owed it huge debts.

It also included BASL in the NOTAM, which prompted airlines that operate from the facility to become worried.

FAAN later removed BASL from the list of those that it would withdraw services from.

But Arik Air, which operates its Lagos-Port Harcourt flights from the facility, had already notified its customers that it would move the service to the General Aviation Terminal (GAT), also known as Murtala Muhammed Domestic Airport 1.

Reacting to the FAANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expressed intentions, which it later withdrew, BASL said that it still offered its services to airlines operating in the facility despite the NOTAM from FAAN. BASL denied it owed debts to FAAN and went further to explain why it was not indebted to the agency.

The company said that FAAN had threatened to withdraw its personnel from MMA2 due to alleged indebtedness to the tune of N1, 943,323,516.50 BASL in a statement made available to THISDAY said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;In a letter dated 30 October 2018 to BASL pertaining to outstanding personnel costs for FAAN staff deployed to MMA2, demanding that Bi-Courtney to pay for the provision of the Aviation Security, Rescue and Fire Fighting Services as invoiced

by FAAN among other charges or face withdrawing its personnel. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This was formally responded to in a letter addressed to FAAN reiterating BASLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stance on the demands for payments of purported outstanding liabilities.â&#x20AC;?

In the said letter, BASL said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have consistently brought it to your notice that we have a judgment credit of N132, 540,580,304.00 since 03 March 2009. This credit arose directly from the non-implementation of the Concession Agreement by the appropriate authorities. The Courts have consistently ordered that any liability we have to FAAN or any federal government agency should

be deducted from this amount.â&#x20AC;?

BASL said despite the receipt of its response, FAAN has flagrantly disregarded several Court Orders including the most recent with reference Suit Number - FHC/ABJ/CS/1422/18/ issued on Wednesday, November 28, 2018 pertaining to this matter, duly served to FAAN, ordering that â&#x20AC;&#x153;the status quo be maintained and that nothing that may disrupt and / or hinder the operation of the Airport should be done pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Noticeâ&#x20AC;?.

BASL went on to state that ample safety and security measures have been put in place to ensure the withdrawal of FAAN personnel does not in any way impede or disrupt smooth flight operations and other business activities at the terminal. It reiterated that there are adequately trained and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) certified personnel to man the various parts and all sensitive points at the terminal.

But THISDAY learnt from NCAA that aviation security and fire cover are exclusive item for FAAN as enunciated by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and in accordance to international standards and recommended practices.

The General Manager, Corporate Affairs of FAAN, Mrs. Henrietta Yakubu told THISDAY that private terminals and airports cannot provide their own aviation security because AVSEC is part of the national security of the country and you cannot entrust it to private organisations and this is part of the extant law, which dictates that aviation security is provided by FAAN. This, she said, explains why FAAN supervises the security apparatus of private airports in the country because in domesticating ICAO Annexe 17, which deals with security, FAAN is recognised as the custodian of aviation security in Nigeria.

But BASL insisted that since inception, the company has trained its own aviation security personnel to work along with FAAN security at the terminal. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since 2016, BASL have been performing the same service that FAAN performs in their absence. Staff is trained in accordance with the National Civil Aviation Security Training Programme (NCASTP) in respect of X-ray Image Interpretation and physical security screening,â&#x20AC;? the company noted.

However, industry observers are of the view that both FAAN and BASL should follow the recommendation of the acting Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Chidi Izuwa, who urged both organisations to go for outof-court settlement and put an end to the controversy that has been dogging the establishment of most functional airport terminal in Nigeria.

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Boosting Manpower Development in Aviation Last week the International Civil Aviation Organisation gave a boost to manpower development in the aviation sector by elevating the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria training school into international training centre for aviation security to cater for West and Central Africa, writes Chinedu Eze

Aliu

To ensure that aviation professionals, especially in the area of security are trained to meet international requirements to secure the airports from terror attacks and other illicit incursions, International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) last week inaugurated the ICAO Aviation Security Training Centre (ASTC) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport MMIA), Lagos.

The centre would be under the management of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), which successfully met the stringent standard set out by the global institution for such training centre located at different parts of the world.

The objective of the training centre is to ensure that aviation security professionals are instilled with uniform skills and knowledge to be able to protect and secure the airports and the new training centre under FAAN management would now cater for the security training of aviation institutions in West and Central Africa.

To further reinforce the importance of the training centre, the British Government also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on aviation security with FAAN for the development of manpower, especially Aviation Security Personnel (AVSEC) in the sector. In selecting FAANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s training school, which hitherto catered for different types of training for the agency.

Centre of Excellence Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Managing Director of FAAN, Saleh Dunoma, said the objective of the centre is to contribute to the development of manpower, adding that it is also expected to meet the training needs of the West and Central Africa sub-regions and even beyond.

Dunoma said the establishment of a training centre by ICAO in the agency is very important because the centre is now based on three things: providing safety, security and facilitation training. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So today we are happy that the school is being recognised by ICAO International School of Aviation as a training centre for West and Central sub-regions. We are very happy that we have reached this this stage in this era where aviation security is being improved globally. There are several trainings going on all over the world and FAAN becoming a training centre now; there are several trainings we will organise from here. It is not only for FAAN staff alone; it is also for the aviation institutions in West and Central Africa,â&#x20AC;?

Dunoma said.

Before the upgrade by ICAO, the FAAN Managing Director said the school was being used as FAANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s internal training facility where programmes were organised to train the agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s staff, not only in aviation security but also in other departments including engineering, ICT and business development. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But today the school has moved a step ahead by becoming a centre of excellence for aviation security training in the West and Central Africa

Dunoma

sub-regions. We have enough manpower and they are personnel who are certified by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) or by ICAO and we have enough space in the training facility. But mostly now we are going to have only professional courses in aviation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The big advantage is that we will train our people in large numbers, which will save us foreign exchange because we will no more travel overseas for some of the training. It is also cheaper for our neighbours in West and Central Africa to come here and do the training,â&#x20AC;? Dunoma also said.

Global Training Centre The Director General, NCAA, Capt. Muhtar Usman, said the endorsement of the school

by ICAO showed that FAAN was ready to contribute to the ICAO global aviation security training programme and that the agency has been meeting the expectation of the international aviation body, which is known for its stringent standards on aviation safety, security and other standard practices.

Usman expressed appreciation to ICAO for the endorsement of the school after a successful evaluation process, which proved that FAAN Aviation Training School was ready to contribute to the ICAO global aviation security training programme. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The request for the designation of FAAN AVSEC Training School as an ICAO Aviation Security Training Centre was made on June 8, 2017 after which an evaluation by ICAO was conducted in May 2018 by the Regional Security Officer for Western and Central African Office (WACAF) and under 24 months, the request was granted,â&#x20AC;? he said.

While thanking ICAO for the privilege, Usman said the reason for the request for an ASTC was purely for the provision of AVSEC training courses to cater for the English speaking states in the West Africa Sub-region. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In furtherance of our position on this request, I wish to inform ICAO that presently in Nigeria, there are five certified ICAO AVSEC Instructors and over 60 qualified national AVSEC instructors that can be of service at the ASTC. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is hoped that the designation of the FAAN training school as an ICAO ASTC will attract patronage from the airport communities of the West Africa sub-region and its environs thereby contributing to the development and improvement of aviation security training in the region and elsewhere,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Competence Based Training Also speaking, ICAO Regional Director, Mr. Mam Sait Jallow said one of the main pillars of ICAOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aviation training policy is the recognition of training organizations. He added that during assessment of the orgnisation, ICAO validates the entity to provide competency-based training and to manage it in a manner that effectively

provides the training of aviation professionals with the appropriate skills.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the recognition of the ASTC of Nigeria, the network of aviation security training centres (ASTC) now includes 35 centres wisely distributed in all ICAO regions, to provide aviation security training at the international (ICAO), regional and national levels to all categories of personnel involved or responsible for implementation of security measures, policies and procedures in accordance with its strategic objectives to improve the level of implementation of Annex 17 Standards.â&#x20AC;?

He added further that â&#x20AC;&#x153;the certificate of recognition issued by ICAO to the ASTC of Nigeria means that it has been duly demonstrated that the Centre meets the general and specific requirements in this respect, and that is able to continue to meet such requirement during the period of validity of the certificate of recognition. Marinating the certificate therefore requires all stakeholders to redouble their efforts through the implementation of a coherent and comprehensive monitoring programme.â&#x20AC;?

Manpower Development Sait Jallow said all ICAO-sponsored training is delivered through the ASTC network conducted by certified ICAO instructors. â&#x20AC;&#x153;ICAO overseas the quality of AVSEC training delivered by the ASTC network through the certification of these instructors and the recognition of training centres, based on general criteria for establishing and maintaining recognition as an AVSEC training centre of ICAO, in accordance with the ICAO Training Policy,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Encouraging Contracting States The global body explained that because air transport is global and meets defined standards, the organisation embarks on supporting ICAO Contracting States in resolving significant security deficiencies identified through the ICAO Aviation Security Audit Programme (USAP), and to assist them in their efforts to implement Standards and Recommended Practices of Annex 9 and Annex 17.

This support enables states to meet their aviation security obligations through the promotion of partnerships and coordination of assistance between states, industry, international financial institutions and various other stakeholders.

One of the major activities of Implementation Support and Development Section (Security; ISD-SEC) is the provision of assistance to the Member States in support of their efforts to rectify deficiencies identified under the Universal Security Audit Programme â&#x2C6;&#x2019; Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA) and to comply with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).

ICAOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aviation security-related assistance and capacity-building activities are delivered under the framework of the Aviation Security Assistance and Capacity Building Strategy. This Strategy lays out a framework under which the aviation security needs

of member states are identified, and a roadmap to an effective national aviation security system compliant with SARPs is implemented. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The success of this strategy is centered on Aviation Security Improvement Plans (ASIPs) that are developed in partnership between ICAO and the assisted state, and incorporate a role for other assistance providers, such as regional organisations and other.

In order to further develop regionalised aviation security assistance to States and continue to foster regional cooperation and partnerships, Regional Officers - Aviation Security and Facilitation (ROs-ASF) have been recruited for the Bangkok, Cairo, Dakar, Lima, Mexico City, Nairobi and Paris Regional Offices. ROs-ASF serves as the primary focal point for States requiring assistance with respect to audits and general assistance in the implementation of Annex 17,â&#x20AC;? ICAO said.

Training Focal Point The global body said these centres have also assumed the responsibility of being the operational focal point for all training activities within their respective regions. Additionally, they actively provide ISD-SEC with advice regarding regional training needs and regionalized assistance.

The centres also provide training support to regional, sub-regional and national security training efforts by overseeing the development of appropriate training packages and providing support to ICAO endorsed training centres in the development and delivery of training programmes.

Challenges ICAO said states continue to face various challenges regarding the implementation of ICAOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) which impact a safe, secure, efficient, economically viable and environmentally sound air transport system. The aims of the ICAO No Country Left Behind (NCLB) initiative, which was launched in December 2014, are to: support States in the effective implementation of ICAOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SARPs, policies, plans and programmes in a globally harmonised manner; promote the resolution of significant safety concerns (SSCs) and significant security concerns (SSeCs); and promote and implement all of ICAOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assistance activities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The NCLB objectives are implemented through ICAOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day-to-day operations, ranging from advocating the benefits of aviation for States, and developing dedicated tools and services, to collaborative efforts and partnerships,â&#x20AC;? the international organisation said.

The General Manager, Training, FAAN, Mrs. Ann Agbedo said with the adoption of FAANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school as ICAO training centre, programmes offered in the school would be of uniform standard to what is obtained in any part of the world with the aim to equip AVSEC personnel with the same global skills and knowledge to protect the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s airports is achieved.

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BUSINESSWORLD

MARITIME

Challenges of GreenďŹ eld Seaports Development Lack of infrastructure, integrated transportation system, incentives for investors, unfriendly tax policies and corruption have been the bane of Greenfield deep seaport development in Nigeria, writes Eromosele Abiodun Unstable government policies, lack of safety and security of funds invested by promoters are said to be some of the challenges hindering the development of Greenfield seaport in Nigeria.

Others include: comfort of investors, non-provision of adequate measures to ensure continuity, lack of infrastructure and efficient transport system.

While the above challenges cannot be ruled out, corruption has been a major obstacle. For instance, despite the yearly allocation of several billions of naira for the construction of a proposed Greenfield deep seaport at Ibaka in Akwa Ibom State by both the state government since 2011, the project has remained unrealised.

Deep seaports were conceived to improve the overall cargo handling capacity of Nigerian ports and thereby increase Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gross domestic product (GDP). The handling capacity of ports in Nigeria is put at 60 million metric tonnes, while demand and usage is about 100 million metric tonnes, and they are expected to rise with the increasing population, urban expansion and attendant demand for more markets.

The cargo throughput handled in the ports in 2010 increased from 66,908,322 metric tonnes in 2009 to 74,910,282 metric tons in 2010, indicating a 12 per cent increase. According to global trends in port development, out of a total of 100 plus seaport developments being executed the world over, approximately 60 to 75 per cent of these are deep sea ports or terminals. The balance is mostly inland water way ports and jetties.

This clearly indicates that Nigeria needs better designed port facilities in tune with increased cargo traffic, for the global competition. Also, emphasis is shifting to larger more economical vessels that require deeper harbour drafts. Global logistics trends have made the need for deep seaports more imperative.

The last two decades have witnessed a major shift in the exploration and production focus of international oil companies (IOCs), with deep offshore frontiers becoming more attractive and widespread. This has naturally affected the dynamics of crude oil carriage, just as more efficient means of petroleum products and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply and distribution are sought from the downstream segment of the industry.

Crucially, logistics services for these new frontier developments define the core of operations, costs and efficiency, with bigger vessels infinitely more able to leverage on scales and further thereto, on costs. The foregoing defines todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shipping and oil and gas reality in Nigeria, and paints the canvass for deepwater ports in bold relief.

Port Development and GDP The federal government has been under pressure to embark on policy measures that will encourage Greenfield port development in the country.

Doing so, experts said, would impact positively on the overall cargo handling capacity of the Nigerian ports and thus increase the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s GDP. Experts believe Nigeria needs new and better designed port facilities in line with increased cargo traffic nationally and globally, new and bigger marine vessels that need deeper harbor drafts.

Global logistics trends and practices, they stressed, have made the need for deep sea port more imperative. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nigeria should also have at least one port that can berth a Super Panamax Vessel,â&#x20AC;? said, Bello Ibrahim Gwandu, a former managing director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), while giving reasons why Nigeria must develop Greenfield deep sea ports.

He added that as the largest importer and exporter of cargo in the West African sub-region, one of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deep sea ports should become a hub for west and central Africa because of increased maritime and general trade volumes of the country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The benefits of attaining a regional hub status include the potential to create directly and indirectly, approximately three to four million jobs over a five year period and a 70 per cent cut in vessel turnaround time as well as guaranteeing increased revenue from berthing charges to handling charges for the trans-shipment of cargoes. A deep sea port of draft not less than 35 Meters will almost guarantee Nigeria the regional hub status, which

Ports Authority by volume of cargo alone sent or received from our ports, gives her the right to that status,â&#x20AC;?

Gwandu stated.

He said Nigeria needed a deep sea facility that load and offload finished, refine liquid, powder and containerised cargo adding that bigger ships move cargo more efficiently than smaller vessels, so the economies of scale make it imperative that shippers will buy new bigger vessels, which have to dock somewhere, a deep sea port.

He said public private partnership (PPP) is best suited for port development because of capital layout required to develop ports and equip same and the broad range of engineering, engineering management and operational management expertise needed.

The government, he said, should promote the use of bi-lateral agreements from the private sector as a vehicle for infrastructure development and Nigeria achieving the regional hub status and assist willing investors where necessary to access loans locally and internationally to finance this type of developments.

Expertsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; View In the same vein, the Nigerian Port Consultative Council of Nigeria (NPCC) urged the federal government to complete the on-going deep seaport projects in the country as it will facilitate international trade expansion.

The Chairman of NPCC, Kunle Folarin, gave the advice in Lagos.

Folarin underscored the importance of infrastructure to the successful operation of the deep seaports.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Deep seaport development is critical to our ability to deliver on international trade.

As it grows, the infrastructure to support this particular enterprise becomes a fundamental issue.

Within the infrastructure, also, there should be a renewal and modernisation of the port system.

The modernisation of the port system includes the basics, which are the civil areas of berth, the areas of telecommunication, and the area of power in the port system so that the port can work in a desired 24-hour regime. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Without power, the equipment will not work to satisfaction; without power and illumination, all the working areas in the port and onboard the vessel would not be easily achieved. So still on infrastructure, he has to look at issue of the scanning machines. Although, done directly under him, it is a responsibility of the customs and that means the Ministry of Finance. Since the port is an operational area under his purview, he must also look at a critical infrastructure that is necessary to perform optimally in the port system. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The terminal operators working in the port

system; the haulage contractors supplying trucks for evacuating and delivering cargo into the port must also modernise and provide the infrastructure to deliver optimally in the port. The railways must have the necessary equipment, which include wagons-such equipment that will allow for the evacuation of cargo from the port, particularly containers and tanks. So it will relieve the road network of the stress and the investment that it will demand.â&#x20AC;?

He stressed the need for Nigeria to focus on how to take advantage of the volume of cargoes via international trade.

The NPCC boss said this could be done when indigenous shipping companies transport cargoes for Nigerian shippers from the various ports of origin, He said it was critical and important that Nigeria takes part in industrial trade in countries such as North and South America, Middle East, Sub-Sahara Africa, Asia and others.

Folarin also called for the use of information technology in the operation of the seaports.

He spoke of the need to look at port charges and determine whether the charges were commensurate with the services provided at the ports.

Chairperson of Ibom Deep Seaport Implementation Committee, Mrs. Mfon Ekong Usoro, who was the pioneer Director General of NIMASA and the current the Secretary General of the West and Central Africa Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control, believes deep seaport drives industrialisation and economic activities in the community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So there is going to be a synergy between both activities. As we speak, to investors (shipping lines, terminal operators) are interested in knowing the economic and commercial activities in the state where the seaport is located. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When they know that there is a vehicle plant, a big mall, a petrochemical factory, power plant etc it immediately engenders interest. In point of fact, one of the shipping lines asked a question concerning availability of mega-sized malls because they bring in consumables and commodities from Asia for traders and supermarkets, â&#x20AC;&#x153;she said.

She added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We cited the vibrant markets in Akwa Ibom and Abia, mentioned Tinapa, but it is even better to say we have Shoprite in Uyo. As Shoprite sets up shop in Uyo, they come with their anchor tenants. We have the big mall, we have large markets in Aba, Onitsha and also in Akwa Ibom that are driving the demand for the deep seaport. â&#x20AC;&#x153;On the aspect of this drive towards agriculture, some of the terminals will be for dry cargo such as grains, rice etc. It will serve the farmers better to

know that there is a deep seaport next door and agriculture cluster in the industrial city; remember we are working on Ibom Industrial City which is integrated with the port.â&#x20AC;?

Statesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Efforts Meanwhile, despite several challenges, the Akwa Ibom State Government has vowed that the multi-billion naira Ibaka Deep Sea Port project will be completed in less than three years.

The State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, disclosed this recently in Uyo during a media chat. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Latest by April 2019 we should be able to have a deep sea port,â&#x20AC;? he said.

If this is achieved, it would be six months ahead of the December 31, 2019 deadline which Governor Emmanuel gave the 10-member Technical Committee on the actualisation of the project during its inauguration in early June.

The governor, described the Ibaka Deep Sea Port project conceived by his immediate past predecessor, Senator Godswill Akpabio, as the only one in the country that has both Federal Executive Council and Presidential approvals.

He described it as a very significant project which will help to unlock the non-oil potentials of Akwa Ibom in the face of dwindling returns from crude oil, in which the state is a major producer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are quite on tract,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every single step we set for the project, we are achieving it,â&#x20AC;? the governor added.

He also disclosed that his administration has moved swiftly to make the state-of-the-art Specialist Hospital built by the Akpabio administration functional by bringing in expatriate medical personnel who will run the hospital and later transfer knowledge to their Nigerian counterparts.

On his part, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State had last year disclosed that the $1.65 billion Lekki Deep Seaport will be completed in 2019.

The governor stated this during the formal unveiling of the Office of Overseas Affairs and Investment, otherwise known as Lagos Global in Lagos, Southwest Nigeria.

Ambode said that efforts put in place so far have ensured that the state remains the desired business haven, attracting significant foreign direct investments (FDI) such as the $1.65 billion Lekki Deep Seaport.

He assured stakeholders that the seaport would be completed in 2019 and that upon completion, it would be the deepest seaport in Sub-Saharan Africa. Ambode added that the Badagry Creek Industrial Park, a $1.3billion investment and the $12 billion Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Park were among other investments coming to the state.

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NCS, FOU Intercept N379m worth of Indian Hemp, Collects N5.1bn The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, Lagos announced that its men intercepted 3,792Kilogramme of Indian Hemp worth N379, 200, 000 along the Oyo/ Osun border area between August 17th to December 10th, 2018.

This is just as it revealed that it also intercepted various contrabands with a duty paid value (DPV) of N5.1 billion during the period.

Customs Area Comptroller of the Unit, Mohammed Aliyu in a chat with newsman said the drive and desire to complement the Comptroller Generalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Policy of entrenching transparency and integrity while enforcing the core mandate of the Service is the determining factor for his uncompromising stand to succeed at all cost.

The Comptroller stated that being the head of the second layers of defense (FOU) in enforcing the role of the Service and complementing the activities of the Area Commands, the resolute stand of the unit occasioned by the aggressive enforcement of the federal government policy across the border Commands is a task that must be accomplished and cannot be overemphasized. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For the period under review, the breakdown of the seizures recorded with their appropriate Duty Paid Values (DPV) from August 17 to December 10 2018 accumulated to

N5.1Billion. The seized items include: 24 unit of seized vehicles and 34 exotic vehicles worth N784, 411,452 on detention; 39,664 bags of foreign parboiled rice (equivalent of 66 trailers) worth N525, 639,228; 3,252 frozen poultry products; 2,887 jerry-cans of vegetable oil worth N31, 179,600; 3,792 parcels of Indian Hemp worth N379,200,000; 5x20ft containers of unprocessed wood worth N30,000,000; 2,520 bales of used clothing worth N30,240,000; 710 cartons of Tramadol worth N808,000,000 among others, â&#x20AC;&#x153; Aliyu stated.

The Comptroller used the opportunity to appeal to both print and electronic media to help in passing across information on the dangers inherent in such import, lamenting the dire consequences of illicit substance intercepted, apart from the series of the successive Tramadol drug seizures made at different Ports in recent times. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As an enforcement Unit of the Service, the FOU will not rest on its oars until there is total compliance that will translate to effective revenue generation, suppression of smuggling, facilitation of legitimate trade and protection of our national security. We are determined to stem the tide against those who have decided to be nonconformist to legitimate process of importation and exportation clearance processes,â&#x20AC;?he added.

Group Accuses EFCC of Bias over N13.7bn Warri Channel Dredging Contract Stories by Eromosele Abiodun Cadrell Advocacy Centre, a nongovernmental advocacy group has disagreed with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the controversial N13.7 billion Warri Channel Dredging contract awarded by the Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) to Dredging International Services Nigeria Limited (DISNL).

The group in a response to a recent report credited to the EFCC where it absolved NPA of wrong doing accused EFCC of bias.

In a statement by Executive Director, Evans Ufeli Esq, the group said it was not surprised that the anti corruption agency absolved the parties involved but, â&#x20AC;&#x153;however shocked that the same EFCC that had invited us to their office countless times for statements and interrogation did not deem it fit to oblige us a copy of the report before sending it to press.â&#x20AC;?

The group had earlier petitioned EFCC to probe NPA concerning the bid which resulted in investigations by the House of Representatives and Bureau

of Public Procurement.

According to them, contrary to EFCCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s report that Dredging International Services Limited is not a convicted company, a study of the incorporation documents of Dredging International Services Nigeria Limited obtained from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Abuja reveals that, DISNL is partly owned by Dredging and Environmental Services Nigeria Limited with 49,500,000 shares and Dredging International NV with 500,000 shareholding.

It said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We therefore must advise and must warn that, while the EFCC is not leaving any stone unturned in their effort to extradite Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke to face alleged corruption charges in Nigeria, they must not be seen to be creating another â&#x20AC;&#x153;Diezaniâ&#x20AC;? for this administration. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our position is borne out of the fact that in the cause of investigations, all our plea to EFCC to request for the original Bid documents to enable them carry out a forensic analysis of â&#x20AC;&#x153;same to determine if truly the documents were indeed swapped as alleged by one of the Bidders

fell on deaf ears. Yet the EFCC went ahead to write a report without resolving that issue and most of the issues that came up in the cause of their investigation, one way or the other. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Contrary to EFCCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s report, the conclusion reached by EFCC, rather raised more questions for NPA and Dredging International Services Limited to answers than provide answers to our allegations. Firstly, the EFCC in its report concluded that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dredging International Services Nigeria Limited (DISNL) is not a convicted companyâ&#x20AC;? and went further to hold that â&#x20AC;&#x153;The company wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t at the time of the award of the contract managed or partly owned by any convicted person.â&#x20AC;?

They added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The EFCC report went further to state that the companies indicted were Dredging International Services Cyprus (DISC) and Dredging International NV. For ease of reference, may we kindly reproduce here the provisions of Section 16 subsection 8 (f) of the Bureau of Public Procurement Act, 2007 which states; â&#x20AC;&#x153;S.16(8) whenever it is established by a procuring entity to the Bureau that any or

combination of the situation set out exists a bidder may have its bid or tender excluded from any particular procurement proceeding if the bidder have been validly sentenced for a crime committed in connection with the procurement proceeding or any other crime committed to gain financial profits. (f) The bidder has its management or is in any portion owned by any person that have been validly sentenced for a crime committed in connection with the procurement proceeding or other crime committed to gain financial profits. (italics ours) â&#x20AC;&#x153;A study of the incorporation documents of Dredging International Services Nigeria Limited obtained from the Corporate Affairs Commission in Abuja reveals that, Dredging International Services Nigeria Limited is partly owned by Dredging and Environmental Services Nigeria Limited with 49,500,000 shares and Dredging International NV with 500,000 shareholding (which said company EFCC reported as one of the convicted company in the Bonny Channel Dredging Contract awarded by NPA to Dredging International Services Cyprus.â&#x20AC;?

NPA Concessions Terminal B, Warri Old Port The Governing Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) after a meeting held in Lagos approved the concession of Terminal B, Warri Old Port to Messers Ocean and Cargo Services Limited.

The NPA in a statement after the meeting which was chaired by Chairman of the Board, Mr Emmanuel Adesoye said its decision to concession the port is in continuation of the port reform process started by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) through the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) in 2006.

According to the statement, the new concessionaire emerged from seven pre-qualified bidders who responded to a Request for Proposals (RfPs) issued by BPE on September 27, 2017.

The statement explained that Ocean and Cargo Services Limited will operate the terminal, which has been aban-

doned for the past ten years in a concession agreement for a 25-year term. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Within this period, the concessionaire would rehabilitate infrastructure at the terminal and deploy modern technological infrastructure with the aim of making the facility competitive.

The development plan for the Terminal will be reviewed every five years to make it responsive to changes in operations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Terminal B, Old Warri Ports was first concessioned to Associated Maritime Services Limited in 2006 but the company was relocated to the Warri New Port upon the collapse of the quay wall in April 2008. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Terminal covers an area of 4.39 hectares and consists of facilities like a 760m long quay deck with appropriate quay hardware, open cargo storage areas as well as engineering and maintenance yards,â&#x20AC;? the NPA said.

REWARDING EXCELLENCE

Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala- Usman receives a plaque of honour and recognition as a Fellow of The Charted Institute of Logistics and Transports (FCILT), from the National President of the Institute, Ibrahim Jibril during the 2018 CILT Leadership Impact Programme (CLIP) in Lagosâ&#x20AC;Śrecently

Ogbeifun: SOANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Engagement with FG Agencies Will Boost GDP President of Ship Owners Association of Nigeria (SOAN), Mr. Greg Ogbeifun has stated that SOANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s engagement with federal government agencies will facilitate the emergence of a competitive Nigerian maritime industry that is at par with other maritime nations and contribute to the growth of the national gross domestic products (GDP).

Speaking at the 4th All Nigerian Ship-owners Annual Workshop and Dinner in Lagos, Ogbeifun stressed the need to consolidate on the gains made so far in order to reposition the maritime and shipping industry as a strategic driver for the national economic development of Nigeria SOAN, he said, has through its engagements, increased

governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest and participation in global maritime opportunities such as the Nigeria Maritime Autumn Event which was held on the 28th of September 2016 with the Theme â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Maritime Industry as a Driver of Growth.â&#x20AC;?

He gave a breakdown of the ongoing engagements with some of the government agencies, which would not only assist the Nigerian masses in the immediate future, but also transform the country into a truly shipping nation; mentioning areas of engagement with the relevant agencies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For instance, the Shipowners are presently collaborating with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in the

areas of Cadetship training Scheme, Cabotage, waivers as well as securing Central Bank of Nigeria intervention funds and Special interest rates for the Maritime sector,â&#x20AC;? he said.

The SOAN president also highlighted that the body is also engaging the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), in the area of vessel categorisation, cadetship / funding support; with the NAPIMS for contract terms, vessel hire rates, dollar / naira payment ratio; with the Federal Ministry of Transportation for Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF); and with the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, on the issue of realistic and meaningful support on Cadetship Training.

In his speech, the doyen of the Nigerian Maritime Industry, Adebayo Babatunde Sarumi specially thanked the SOAN and the leadership of the government agencies for their patriotic spirits, altruistic commitment and noteworthy dedication to national interest, stressing that in spite of the great odds and challenges, he could now truly see a glowing light, at the end of the tunnel.

He encouraged the SOAN, not to rest on its oars, stressing the need to fight for their rights, especially in the mission of growing the Nigerian shipping industry, acquiring vessels, participating in crude lifting and ship breaking; as well as expanding enduring opportunities for massive employment of Nigerian youths.

THIS WEEKEND WEEKLY MAGAZINE

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

Anthony Nzeako Propagating Umukabia and the UN Goal For Sustainable Development

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COVER ANTHONY NZEAKO: PROPAGATING UMUKABIA AND THE UN GOAL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Anthony Nzeako, an Emeritus Professor of Electronic Engineering, who doubles as the Head of Department of Electronic Engineering and Dean Faculty of Engineering, University of Nigeria Nsukka, has convened a historical meeting of his fellow Ukabians in Abia State, to see how a village of over two centuries of existence with a population of well over 50,000 pending the confirmation of its proposed census, can turn around the high points of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal to its advantage. In this interview with NDUKA NWOSU, he explains why the Umukabia Economic Summit scheduled for the fourth week of December is setting a pattern other Nigerian communities may follow to move to the next level of growth and development. Excerpts: Can you run a short biography on your community Umukabia?

Umukabia is a big rural community of six villages with two major communitiesOkpuala and Umuagbom. It is also a component of a larger community called Okaiuga Alike from which she derived her Autonomous Community. It is as well an integral component of the Ohuhu Clan in Umuahia North LGA in Abia State.

Umukabia can best be described as a landlocked community, squeezed from all ides by other communities, hence she has a very small land mass and no direct access to any major road across the state and country Umukabia has no mineral deposits and other natural resources such as crude oil, rivers, etc. Indeed the name Alike (hard soil) describes a major physical handicap of the community. Her underground water level is covered by very hard rock not found in commercial quantity for exploitation, defying all modern borehole drilling instruments for water until recently and only in a section of the community where one of her prominent scientists Engineer Chinedum Nsofor after months of prayers, trial and error miraculously drilled water out of his compound.

Beyond this the community has no natural water flowing from the rocks or falls; it also lacks the presence of other natural resources. However, what she lacks in natural resources is compensated in human resources. In this regard, Umukabia may be described as the Japan or Holland of Africa. She is endowed with many very intelligent and educated, highly talented and very enterprising human resources, individuals who at various times had occupied and are still occupying very important positions of authority and influence in both the public and private sectors of the economy and at all levels of government..

There is a reasonable level of material wealth that abounds in the community.

The question is how do we harness these human resources and available material wealth for the common good like Japan and Holland?

This is the idea behind the proposed economic summit.

Can you educate us more on this economic summit?

The main idea behind this summit is to use what we have to get what we need.

Oftentimes we complain of what we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have or what is lacking in our lives. We hardly look at or think of what we have, our talents, natural and physical potentials and possessions in order to meet our needs.

The Scripture has it that man was created in the image of God who gave man unlimited potentials charging him to go into the universe, conquer and dominate it. Therefore, whenever we approach any situation, the expectation is that we find ourselves considering what we already have by way of our potentials and then proceed with the development of those potentials to attract what we need that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have.

This is positive thinking. Let me restate that Umukabia has enormous high quality human resources, but very little or no mineral and natural resources, just like Japan or Holland. Therefore, if we can sit down to plan how to channel these potentials towards the socio-economic development of the community, as Japan or Holland did, Umukabia will be a prosperous community. The forthcoming summit is modeled after the United Nations 2030 Sustainable

Can you imagine what will happen if a good proportion of these human resources are mobilised and their potentials channeled towards sustainable socio-economic development of the community? This is the mission of the summit.

What do you intend to achieve through this awareness driven summit?

The main theme of the summit is: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Agenda for Sustainable Umukabia Developmentâ&#x20AC;? modelled after the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda (2030 SDA), the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (17 SDGs) of the agenda, and their 169 achievable targets.

Nzeako

Development Goals (17 SDCs), the summit will first identify a set of SDGs of the community, map out achievable targets for each goal and then set up plans and time lines to meet each of the targets, using available human and material resources in the community. It is not just going to be another talk shop or a paper work presentation but a concrete action summit.

Have you tried to explore the presence of natural resources in Umukabia?

We have none. Given the examples of the Arab and most African countries, including Nigeria, in particular the oil producing communities, the possession of mineral resources such as oil has turned out to be a curse rather than a blessing. The developed countries of the world have demonstrated that the greatest assets to socio-economic and technological development are human resources. Japan and Holland have neither mineral deposits nor large land mass, yet they are among the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest economic and technological giants, thanks to their high quality human resources. All that Umukabia needs now are concrete plans and strategies on how to effectively utilise her available human and material resources for sustainable socio-economic development.

How are you leveraging on your skill in farming to create food sufďŹ ciency and value added?

We are still peasant farmers and this is on a sad note considering how the world has been transformed since the advent of the agricultural revolution. Here in the former Eastern Nigeria, the former Premier Dr. Michael Iheonukara Okpara, who happens to be our own kinsman, launched an agrarian revolution that made Nigeria the leading exporter of palm produce in the world market. Today, Malaysia has taken that lead from us.

What a shame because this revolution was not followed up with the collapse of the civilian government and the exploitation of huge oil deposits in the Niger Delta.

That is why we are where we are today

as peasant farmers and unable to feed ourselves. Revolutionising agriculture in the community is going to be one of the sustainable development goals of the summit. We are hugely optimistic that this summit would rekindle old values and passions while exploring modern ways of farming through mechanised agriculture.

What constitutes the intellectual property of Umukabia?

By Nigerian standards, Umukabia, can be rated as an intellectual giant, academically, professionally, and administratively. In academia, there are at least five living full- fledged professors of international repute and of reputable universities, more than two associate professors. These include two women, one of whom is the wife of our traditional ruler. In the professions, Engineering, Medicine, Journalism, Law, Accounting, Banking and Finance, Environmental Design, Construction and Management, etc., we are there in large numbers, and many are private consultants. In Administration. Umukabia has produced, and still has in place many high ranking administrators at both federal and state levels including a Judge of the Supreme Court (rtd) now deceased, a Federal Permanent Secretary (rtd), a State Accountant General (late), and a former Vice-Chancellor of a State University (ABSU) and Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

The greatest among these till date was Chief Bob Ogbuagu, the ChiefExecutive and Managing Director of the defunct Eastern Nigeria Development Corporation (ENDC), who led what is generally referred today as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Golden Eraâ&#x20AC;? of the former Eastern Region including Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo and Rivers states. The ENDC was the arrow head of the Agricultural and Industrial Revolutions of the region under the leadership of the then Premier of Eastern Nigeria Dr. M. I. Okpara. Umukabia also has very vibrant, highly educated and very talented middle class who are making waves in various areas of human endeavor. This is no small achievement.

How are you going to raise funds for the envisaged SDGs? There is a popular saying that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t start resting at the foot of the mountain, but at the top and in Igbo another saying goes thus: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mgbugbu towuto, egbughiya jiâ&#x20AC;?.

By the first, we mean to say that we neednâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t divulge our strategies before the action or actual Summit. What you are demanding now is one of the major issues to be tackled at the summit. A committee is already working on this along with several committees set up to explore all the vital areas that the summit would address.

According to the second Igbo (Ohuhu) saying, as the summit progresses, people will definitely see the need to raise funds through channels most convenient to the majority for the achievement of the set goals. There will be a platform for everyone to participate in the fund raising according to oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capability. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Igwe bu ikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; means there is strength when the majority of the people decide to pool their resources together. Indeed, little drops of water make an ocean.

How does this summit align with the UN programme on sustainable development?

Sustainable development has been described as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needsâ&#x20AC;?.

On September 25, 2015, at a special UN Summit: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Transforming Our Worldâ&#x20AC;?, the Heads of State and Government of countries constituting the United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including its 17 Sustainable Development Goals and 169 targets.

The Agenda is a commitment to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development by 2030 world-wide, ensuring that no one is left behind. Toeing the line of the United Nations, a number of well-meaning sons and daughters of Umukabia met on Easter Saturday, 31st March, 2018, under the distinguished chairmanship our traditional ruler HRM, Sir Eze Uzo Nwosu, and adopted a proposal to organize an Umukabia Economic Summit, with the theme: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Agenda for Sustainable Umukabia Developmentâ&#x20AC;?.

Following the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goalsâ&#x20AC;?, the aim of the Summit is to identify a set of goals, with achievable targets, to transform Umukabia to a sustainable prosperous community within attainable time lines.

The Summit has been scheduled for the 26th and 27th December, 2018 and it will be a huge success story after which we shall reflect on one of Nelson Mandelaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famous quotes: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It always seems impossible until it is done.â&#x20AC;?

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XTRA

Urhobo College Honours Whitehouse Boss, Others Mary Nnah It was an evening of reunion, glamour, glitz and thrills, when the present day students of the premier Urhobo College, Efurum, Warri, Delta State and those of yesteryears, recently gathered at the Alvan Ikoku Hall, Radisson Blu, Ikeja, Lagos, to honour Dr. Austin Avwero Eruotor, President, White House Group and others.

Other awardees include Prof. Joseph Abuju, Mr. Ogaga Orovwuje and Barrister Lucky Nengite, as pillars of the Urhobo College Old Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association (UCOSA) and for their uncommon service to humanity.

The well attended event was a threefold in one annual event, tagged â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The 2018 Annual Dinner, Lecture and Awardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

The event, which was chaired by Chief Oghenekpobo Jonathan Idudu, the Ughegbe of Agban Kingdom, was attended by prominent old students of the institution and their spouses, who have carved a niche for themselves in their various fields of human endeavours.

Some of the eminent men present at the dinner include, Mr. Victor Hammond, Chief E. F. Esisi and Mr. Tajudeen Adegboyega Akande, President Lagos Country Club, who was the guest speaker.

He spoke on the topic â&#x20AC;&#x153;Successful Succession Planningâ&#x20AC;? which he treated professionally well to the admiration of his audience.

In his address, President of the Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lagos Branch, Mr. Igho Okor, expressed his overwhelming excitement on the turn out of the members and called

Chief Esisi presenting the award to Dr. Austin Eruotor with his wife Mrs. Nike Eruotor at the UCOSA 2018 Annual Dinner

on them to wake up to the clarion call of seeing that the great institution that would turn 70 years on January 24, 2019, having been founded in 1949, takes her rightful place as the admirable and enviable champion it used to be.

He revealed that the 70th anniversary celebration would be used primarily to raise a N100 million to revamp some structures in the school that requires urgent attention.

In a solemn tone, he appealed to the old students to use their positions and engage individuals and corporate bodies that they know that can do something for the college in furtherance of their corporate vision and social responsibility.

Lifting from Okorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s words, chairman of the event, Chief Oghenekpobo Jonathan Idudu, the Ughegbe of Agban Kingdom, told the old students not to rest until

they ensure that their alma mater has taken back the championship position she was known for worldwide. â&#x20AC;&#x153;From the caliber of the men assembled here you can achieve much more than your intent to do if you all direct your energies and pulled your resources together with the quest to achieve the extra ordinary success in the shortest time span. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is achievable. Where there is a genuine will, there must surely be a way to actualise oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream and Urhobo College, Effurum, Warri should by no means be an exception.â&#x20AC;?

He emphasised that a school that produced such people like Hon. Justice, Mrs. Roseline Bozimo, immediate past Chief Judge of Delta State and Hon. Justice Gladys Ekperin and others too many to list, who did their Higher School Certificate (HSC) there, should not be left to decay,

Meyer Paints ReaďŹ&#x192;rms Commitments for Producing Quality Products Sunday Ehigiator It was a gathering of painters and paint users at the Lagos office of Meyer Paint Plc., as the organisation reaffirmed its desire to continue the healthy relationship that has long existed between it and all contracted, industrial, and in-house painters respectively, with a promise of better policies, working conditions, and training courses.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director, Meyer Paints Plc. Mr. Bosun Lawore said the company was incorporated on May 20, 1960 and converted to a Public Company in 1979, adding that Meyer PLC is an offshoot of former Hagemeyer Nigeria Limited, the manufacturer of Sigma Paints and Cosmetics. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In this 21st century, we realise that doing more will not be enough but being different holds the key to success. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hence, we are strategically positioned to revolutionise the paint industry through novel initiatives and also our background of Sigma international and Dunlop extractions have positioned us as a Multi-Product Company that offers world class

quality and servicesâ&#x20AC;?, he noted Speaking further, Lawore said that today, Meyer Plc. has expanded into complimentary and allied areas of the paint industry.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our recent heavy investment into the R & D of road lining Paints has made us the preferred local supplier of road lining paints with tremendous application capacity. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Furthermore, we have a fully owned subsidiary DNM Construction Limited that has exhibited its project management expertise in the construction of two housing estates â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Abeokuta and Abuja within a space of three years, whilst expanding the Meyer Painters Club with over 800 members in eight states of the country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The company is committed to the vision of being the undisputed and dominant leader in the finishing business of the construction sector with quality and reliable products, excellent customer service and market presence.

With over 56 years of existence, Meyer Plc. has the greatest opportunity to reinvent herself for breakthrough as a key player in Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emerging economy.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our mission remains; to employ all resources at our disposal in positioning our company as the leader within our chosen sphere of activity and effectively satisfying the total quality demand of our market, the aspiration of our employees and providing optimum return on our stakeholdersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; investments through focused profitable growth whilst we remain a responsible corporate citizen. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And today, we feel it is imperative to host you all in this interactive session, so we can appreciate your support for the Meyer brands as painters, and also enquire from you, ways we can better improve on our relationships, for the future benefits of our clients.â&#x20AC;?

In his closing remark, Surveyor Kunle Ketiku said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Meyer Paint has the best products you can ever find in Nigeria, we have a history of shunning out well researched products that meets every single need of every client, without compromising on our quality standards. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is why we are ranked as first choice in several sectors in Nigeria, including; commercial, residential, education, healthcare, utilities, transport, maritime etc.

while she should actually lead the pack of prominent sought after post primary schools in the country.

National President, UCOSA Worldwide, Prof. Chris Ugolo, who spoke through a representative frowned at the neglect and pitiable state of the infrastructures in the college and the living condition of the staff and called on the relevant authorities to collaborate with the studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; association in bringing back the glory of the school for the good of the state and for the betterment of the heritage of the Urhobo nation.

Furthermore, he advised that the anniversary celebration committee should focus more on raising funds for the purpose of rebuilding the dilapidated buildings in the school. This he said should be given an urgent attention.

The speeches were

punctuated with soul lifting music and comedy performed ostensible by Emma Sax and the ace comedian Micky Mouse, who came all the way from Warri, to add flavour to the occasion.

The old students rekindled their good days at the college as they sang and danced to various songs, behaving like very young adults to the bafflement of the guests and their spouses and children.

The awardees who were rewarded for their support of the body in Lagos stepped out one after the other to receive their awards. They were honoured for their valuable and uncommon commitment and immense contributions to the activities of UCOSA, Lagos Branch and beyond.

Immediate past President of the body worldwide, Chief E. F. Esisi, presenting the certificate and plague to Eruotor on behalf of the body said rewarding and recognising him for what he has done is encouraging him to do more and inviting him to always stand up to the occasion when there is a genuine opportunity to do so.

He mentioned that for Eruotor to be chosen as a UN Global Peace Ambassador, an honour given to very distinguished and well tested select few, was well-deserved.

He therefore called for him to do more.

Eruotor who was awarded a honourable doctorate degree-Doctor of Philosophy, Business Administration, by the reputable Pacific Western University, Denver, Sate of Colorado, USA, spoke on behalf of the award recipients.

He said his passion for excellence, hard work, innovation, versatility and

astute interest and zeal for knowledge and capacity that is of added value to the larger society, endeared and motivated his induction into the famous London Institute of Banking as member. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For a body like UCOSA with very highly placed people in different spheres of life and well recognisable eminent and erudite international scholars as members, to choose to honour us, especially in Lagos, Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s center of excellence, is a way of humbling us. It also means more responsibilities like Chief Esisi, the elder statesman mentioned earlier,â&#x20AC;? he said.

He added that with his little knowledge, he believed that, for every soul on earth there is a designed divine purpose to be of immense benefit to humanity.

He said charity and good works is not only meant for the so called rich, adding that every person no matter on which societal strata he or she is, has contribution to make for the good of the larger human society.

He called on the millennia generation to be focused, patient and direct their vibrant energies positively and shun vices that are the surest way to doom, not only for the individual involved but their immediate family and the global human society.

In his very short closing remark, Chief Mudiaga Okumagba, a member of the Organising Committee, thanked the Pillars and members of UCOSA and reminded them that all is expected to wake up to the task, for there is too much work to be done.

Clergy Harps on Unity Among Churches The shepherd of Excellent Church of Christ Glory (ECCG), Pastor Christopher Anammah, has urged Nigerian churches on unity of one voice, adding that it will move th e church forward to become a centre of truth and honesty.

During the just concluded first convention of the church held at the church auditorium in Lagos, themed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Glorious Churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Anammah noted that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ungodly if churches speaks in different voice, noting that it will not only mislead the congregation but also tarnish the image of Christians. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The church should wake up to their responsibilities, and if they should does otherwise, evil will overcome the church. God is counting on the church to stand for truth and honesty because He has given us the grace. â&#x20AC;&#x153; Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important that the whole church remains one to speak in one voice. God does not speak multiple things and doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cause confusion,â&#x20AC;? he said.

He said the convention is a scripture order from God that Christians should gather before him at least quarterly, but most times itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done annually.

He added that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also an a platform to thank God for the calendar year and preparation for the next year.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Scripturally, God

Pastor Christopher Anammah.

said the people should gather at least every quarter to meet before him, but most people settle for the annual gathering and this is our first episode after the inauguration we had last year and it was a program that lasted for five days, from Wednesday, November 28, 2018 to December 2, 2018. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The first two days were for the ministers. It was a program of special packs of; ordination, baptism, worship services, community outreach, and empowerment program and lot more. We tend to be doing this program annually to prepare our ministers for excellent year of ministry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The convention is an opportunity to come together and appreciate God for a successful calendar year, an opportunity to develop the ministers to perform

better and more in the coming year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Bible says â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Iron sharpens ironâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; so coming together will inform sharing with one another to develop. And itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also an opportunity to revisit the mission and vision of the church. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We believe the church should be relevant to it community. And I must confess that from the just concluded convention, testimonies were shared.â&#x20AC;? Lending his voice to the forthcoming election activities, he urged Christians to exercise their legal rights and vote in a competent leader â&#x20AC;&#x153;The ball is in the court of Nigerian Christians. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our own duty to stand in the gap but also stand to be counted and get our Permanent Voterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Card (PVC).

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E-TRENDS

MUSIC SHOWBIZ

â&#x20AC;ŚYour weekly entertainment delight

NOLLYWOOD

Music, Fashion and Glitter at Spice TV Lifestyle Honours NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG and VANESSA OBIOHA, were among the cream of the society that witnessed electrifying performances from award-winning singer Asa and other artistes, including iconic pieces from notable designers at the inaugural Spice TV Lifestyle Honours

A

n Asa themed event no doubt would pool a wide audience, being that it had been over a year the award-winning artiste hosted a show for her Nigerian fans. So it was not unlikely to find a large crowd trooping into the Convention Center of Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos recently for the inaugural edition of Spice TV Lifestyle Honours.

A first of its kind, the award which seeks to celebrate and reward African fashion brands and icons is among the list of events organised by XCHANGE, a consortium of event promoters led by Tajudeen Adepetu.

Adepetuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shrewdness in the creative business cannot be overstated. The CEO of Consolidated Media Associates is the brain behind most of the entertainment and lifestyle TV Channels such as Spice TV, SoundCity (both radio and Television), Trybe and ONtv. The Spice TV Lifestyle Honours was another testament to his ingenious mind.

Known for his quest for excellence, he didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave any stone unturned to celebrate the launch of his new project.

The venue was aesthetically designed to give the awards a befitting glitter and glamour. From the gold-framed mirrors on the walls of the hallway â&#x20AC;&#x201D; enticing guests to admire their reflections â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to the beautifully decorated hall where the stage is extended to a runway. The glitter and glamour was complemented by the calibre of guests who walked the red carpet in fashionable outfits.

Early birds were however forced to wait for hours before the event finally kicked off.

Alternative musician Falana opened the show while designer Kenneth Ize showcased his pieces on the runway.

While the models strut the runway, it was difficult to tear oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes away from the soulful performance of the versatile singer and her backup singers who wore helmets.

The way she played the percussion, the sultry texture of her voice and her stage presence was overwhelming.

Another designer Orizu who dressed his models in stylish suits with traditional outfits embellished by a colourful sash across the shoulder was a spectacle on the runway.

The last designer to walk the runway before Falana took a bow was Red Button who pushed the button with her daring designs: plunging necks, off shoulders, high slits and ball gowns for the bold and fashionable woman.

The rest of the night would take similar patterns while Joselyn Dumas looking

Asa

A model on the runway(

dashing in every costume she wore for the night tried to keep the crowd alive with her wit and charm.

However, it was the musicians that stole the night away. Teni the Entertainer switched things a bit up with her performance, including her rave hit at the moment â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Caseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, which the audience sang along.

Then Bez came, dressed in blue kimono over a black top and jeans. The audience went wild when he showed off his dexterity with the guitar, creating a kind of alternative rock sounds that earned him a great applause.

Not to be outdone, Adekunle Gold lit up the stage with hi medley. Kicking off with Orente, the artiste who has a magnifying stage presence dazzled with his performances while Ugo Udezue models in different sport gears strut the runway.

The Gold artiste proved once again while his style of music is unique when he rounded off his performance with a groovy freestyle they saw him and his dancers rocking the stage to Bruno Marsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Uptown Funkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Big Shaqâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Not Hotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, and the timeless James Brownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I Got You (I Feel Good)â&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

By the time Vector came on stage, the crowd were anticipating A aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance.

They however gave the rap artiste audience when he sang his popular 2014 hit â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Shigaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

The rapper also seized the moment to do a freestyle that addressed the wave of violence spreading across the country.

As Asa made her way to the stage, though by then some of the guests had left, a loud cheer nevertheless greeted her. Keeping a serious face, she opened her set with Fire on

the Mountain which the audience lovingly sang along.

Eliciting gasps from the audience as she removed her jacket to reveal a sexy sequined black top worn over pants, A a launched into a medley, performing most of her hit tracks including â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jailerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bibankeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Way I Feelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Dead Againâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. While performing the emotional â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Moving Onâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Asa shared some words of encouragement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There will always be angels because God didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bring you out here to face pain that you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bear. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what keeps you moving on.â&#x20AC;?

The singer also displayed her dexterity with the trumpet, fetching more applause from her fans.

Asa definitely had fun on stage. At one point she kicked off her shoes after regaling the audience how she did that at a concert in Paris and someone took one of the shoes home. To forestall a repeat, she asked her team to keep her shoes.

However, the highlight of the night was when a smitten fan took the bold step to propose to the singer on stage. Asa while performing her last song for the night â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bamideleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; teased the audience with a freestyle melody â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I like you Asa, I want you Asa, but you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t marry meâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Taking cue from her lyrics, the young man climbed on stage, went down on one knee and asked Asa to marry him.

Unfazed by his boldness, Asa held him up and teased him with seductive moves that got the audience screaming wildly. She danced with him, and at a point, bent over as if she

was going to twerk for him, all along flashing beautiful smiles to the audience who were wowed by her moves.

The fan may not have been to heaven but on that stage, having A a leaning on his body, he definitely had a taste of heaven. When the singer hugged him, he held her tightly and seemed not in a hurry to let go.

Her brilliant display brought a climactic end to the maiden edition of the awards which saw the likes of GTB, carting away the prize for Financial Services Brand of the Year, OC Ukeje winning the Male Lead in a Movie of the Year, Dangote Foundation winning the CSR Brand of the Year, while the Award for the Fashion brand stylist of the Year went to Dimeji Alara (SA), and Innovator of the Year went to Art X Lagos.

While receiving this award for the best Luxury Wedding Event Company, Funke Bucknor of Zaphire Events broke down as she dedicated the award to her late sister, Tosyn Bucknor who passed on last month.

There were also runway display by famous designers such as Pepper Row, Orapaleng, David Tlale, Endi Martin and Chulaap.

Other awardees of the night include MasterCard (Lifestyle Product of the Year); Dubai Tourism (Holiday Destination of the Year); One and Only (Hotel of the Year); Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;banj (Most Stylish Individual in Entertainment); Universal Music (Music icon of the Year); MalĂŠe (Beauty Business Brand of the Year); Ghanaian actress, Zynnel Zuh (Female Lead in a Movie); Vlisco (Fashion Business of the Year); and Saota (Design Company of the Year).

Filmmaker Femi Odugbemi Receives Lifetime Achievement Award Vanessa Obioha At the recently held Zuma Film Festival in Abuja, the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) under the auspices of the Nigeria Film Society, honoured renowned filmmaker Femi Odugbemi with the Movie Rock of Fame Award.

According to the Managing Director of the body, Dr. Chidia Maduekwe in his nomination letter to Odugbemi, the Lifetime Achievement award is â&#x20AC;&#x153;to recognise and reward excellence and immeasurable contributions towards the growth of the film industryâ&#x20AC;?.

Organised by NFC as an annual part of the film festival, which is now in its ninth year, other Rock of Fame honourees include the late first Prime Minister of Nigeria, Alhaji Tafawa Balewa; TV veteran actor Chief Chika Okpala; former Managing Director of Nigerian Film Corporation, Professor Hyginius Ekwuazi; Mallam Ali Nuhu and Mallam Yakub Ibn Mohammed.

2018 has certainly been a good year for

Odugbemi

the prolific filmmaker. From being inducted in June as a Voting Member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Organisers of the annual OSCAR awards) in the United States, to being appointed as the MultiChoice Talent Factory Academy

Director for West Africa.

Between 2002 and 2006, Odugbemi was President of the Independent Television Producers Association of Nigeria (ITPAN), where he championed professional training and workshops for the then nascent Nollywood industry.

He also led the organisation of the Lagos Forum on Cinema and Video which focused on the business of content marketing and film distribution.

Odugbemiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s career in the film industry boasts of many milestones. He was the pioneer and three-time Head Judge of the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA).

He has also served as a Head of Jury of the Uganda Film Festival in Kampala for three consecutive years. He is a Co-founder and Executive Director of the popular iREP International Documentary Film Festival which has gathered filmmakers from across the globe to Lagos for the last eight years. iREP has provided training and workshop opportunities free of charge to many emerging filmmakers especially those focused on the less glamorous documentary film genre.

Odugbemi through iREP has convened academics, intellectuals, historians and filmmakers under one umbrella to integrate their artistic vision, with thematic explorations of archiving, post-colonial narratives, cultural renaissance, impact of new media and technology on storytelling and many other salient inter-disciplinary approaches to film engagement.

Odugbemi himself established his pedigree as a documentarist of international repute with documentary titles like the AMAA-Best Documentary film â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bariga Boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and many others.

The general focus of his documentary work has been to preserve our culture as well as use film as an advocacy tool to bring to fore burning issues in the society, as a way of keeping the leaders in check.

One of his most celebrated recent documentary is the award-winning â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Makokoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; a story on poor primary school education in Makoko, a slum nestled in the Yaba area of Lagos.

Makoko brought to light the impoverished state of the community, which attracted well meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of the residents.

THISDAYt FRIDAY DECEMBER 14, 2018

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NEWS

Sanwo-Olu Makes Surprise Appearance atThe Lord Chosenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hope for the Needy Mary Nnah Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, made a surprise appearance at The Lords Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries International Headquarters, Ijesha, Lagos State on Sunday during an annual programme of the church, titled â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Hope for the Needyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

Sanwo-Olu who was at the Chosen programme in company of his campaign team said he came to seek prayers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am at Chosen today, we are here to seek for your prayersâ&#x20AC;?, Sanwolu stated as soon as he mounted the podium. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have been watching our Daddy in the Lord from a distance, it is not an error that all of us are here today.

From what I saw, it is real that miracle really happens in the Lords Chosen. Your prayer is all I am asking for. I want you to help me and pray so that what God has started it will come to reality in Jesus nameâ&#x20AC;?, Sanwo-Olu said He told journalists that coming to Chosen was part of his consultation, which would lead to formation of his means governor if elected.

Muoka in handshake with Sanwo-Olu during the event

Sanwo-Olu said articulation of opinions has become necessary in order to capture the need of the people, adding, â&#x20AC;&#x153;as we are different, so is our problems. To some it is power, some waste management, others may be infrastructure, so how do you solve all these; it is by going round and knowing what people want.â&#x20AC;?

Afterwards, he knelt on the pulpit before the General Overseer of the Lords Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries, Pastor Lazarus Muoka, prayed and wished him well for seeking the help of God of the Chosen.

Mouka said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since you have

honoured God, God will honour you. For seeking the face of the Lord of The Chosen, it shall be well with you.â&#x20AC;?

Meanwhile, Muoka called on worshippers at the programme and the nation at large, to repent as that was the only solution to the problems in the nation.

He used the case of Lazarus in the Bible to explain what God can do. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jesus brought Lazarus back to life, Jesus told them â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I am the life and resurrectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

Lazarus who was dead and stinking was brought back to lifeâ&#x20AC;?.

He said if people should jettison the spirit of unbelief, God

would roll away their problems. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That God that brought Lazarus back to life will bring you back to life, your finances, health; barrenness will be rolled away. That God whom I serve will continue to be with you.â&#x20AC;?

He told the congregation that for showing faith in God they would never go home empty, â&#x20AC;&#x153;God would meet you at the point of your need. He will defend you; He will make a way where there is no way.â&#x20AC;?

Warning sinners to repent he said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you are a kidnapper, cult member, evil doer, repent because the time of the Lord is at handâ&#x20AC;?, adding that a sinner is not a Christian and a Christian is not a sinner.

The two days programme witnessed countless testimonies which includes breaking of yoke of poverty, healing for years of madness and organ failures, promotions, among other amazing testimonies.

Margret Ejei, whose two fallopian tubes were removed in a general hospital in Lagos testified of how she received new fallopian tubes and is now a mother of five children. She was one among the numerous testifiers at the event.

Simba Group Endows Female Tricycle Riders

GerardBertrandHoldsWineTastingInLagos

Gerard Bertrand

Ayodeji Ake It was a gathering of wine loving individuals from Nigeria and abroad who attended the wine tasting event organised by Gerard Bertrand Company, producers of wines of expression of the South of France.

According to Bertrand, Gerard Bertrand wines reflect the diversity, richness and high quality innovation level of the company for all consumers through a range of wines based on the experience of emotion - the talent of terroirs, culture of flavours and guaranteed pleasure. He noted that the culture of the vine in harmony with nature is the best way to reveal the specificity of a terroir and create great wines. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My passion is to produce the best wine from the South of France. I like to take my wines all around the world and today, Gerard Bertrand wine exist in over 162 countries. And we are here for the first time in Nigeria and I feel itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to promote the best food and wine drink. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important for me to be involved in organic and bio dynamic farming because I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to use any chemical to produce other than the natural. I have always protested for natural drinks and I can boast of it that Gerard Bertrand wines. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Because when you use natural, you have a better balance acidity and freshness and off course itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to use the natural to produce the best winesâ&#x20AC;?, he noted.

Dufil Group Carts Away Eight Medals at 2018 ADVAN Awards Mary Nnah

Some of the female keke riders displaying their certiďŹ cates at the event

Mary Nnah The Simba Group, distributors of the TVS King tricycles, recently held a graduation ceremony for female tricycle (keke) riders following a training programme held by the company for the women in November.

In total, the graduating batch consisted of 32 women trained in both safe riding and basic maintenance of TVS King tricycles.

The ceremony was presided over by Ms Soni Joe, a representative of the office of Mrs. Onari Duke, Head of the Em-

pretec Foundation in Nigeria; Executive Director-Network of Entrepreneurial Women, Mrs Titilayo Eko; Lagos State Co-ordinator for the National Directorate of Employment, Mr Adewole Ologbenla; Chairman, Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria, Agege Branch, Comrade Oluwole Owolabi and senior executives of Simba Group.

The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Sales Manager, Mr. Oyedeji Olaniran, explained that the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Empowerment is a key focus of the Simba Group, adding that the Queen Riderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Programme in particular, is a key platform for achieving the

companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision of improving Nigerian lives and society.

The Queen Riders programme was borne out of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desire to train women from underrepresented backgrounds, so that they have a chance to increase their total family income.

The Simba Training School which also conducts advanced mechanic courses has provided training to these riders, free of cost.

After the women are trained and certified, they also have the option to be put in contact with various tricycle fleet owners and microfinance institutions so that they have

a better chance of availing these micro-entrepreneurship opportunities.

It followed participation of the group in the recently held conference at the National Centre for Women Development in Abuja.

The Simba Group, one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most respected business groups, has been in Nigeria for over 30 years.

In that time, the group has contributed greatly to the Nigerian economy, and its portfolio of widely recognised brands, continue to dominate industries in which Simba operates. Their TVS tricycle line is the leading keke brand in the country.

Paris-basedNigerianSocialiteLaunchesWorldFirstHandcraftedChampagne Sunday Okobi The prominent London and Paris-based Nigerian high-end luxury fashion designer and stylish creative director of Monte Heires Champagne, Woyimi Borrocco, has unveiled the world finest handcrafted champagne toast in titanic over size Monte Heires Champagne bottle, which

has been described as most prestigious and desirable â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;billionaire rareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; discreet luxury â&#x20AC;&#x153;that can easily host 100 of your privileged high society glamorous guests.â&#x20AC;?

Borrocco, in a statement exclusively sent to THISDAY, said the Monte Heires titanic champagne bottles comprise different wines like Magnum, Jeroboam, Rehoboam, Methusaleh, Salmanazar, Balthazar,

Nebuchadnezzar, Solomon among others. Monte Heires Pristine Champagne, he noted, is driven by pure luxury, highly distinctive, immaculately flawless wine synonymous with â&#x20AC;&#x153;the billionairesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; crème de la crème exquisite luxury lifestyle.â&#x20AC;?

Monte Heires Champagne Supreme Champagne origin is unparalleled with outstanding champagne craftsmanship that

is incomparable to others.

According to him, â&#x20AC;&#x153;in order to achieve the ultimate qualities and success to produce the Monte Heires Luxury Champagne, we spent hundreds of hours through many tedious and rigorous process by using the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest hand selected cuvee to produce the Monte Heires exclusive Champagne in France.â&#x20AC;?

Dufil Prima Foods Plc was the centre of attraction at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Advertisersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association of Nigeria ( ADVAN) Awards for Marketing Excellence (West Africa), as three of its brandsIndomie, Minimie Chinchin and Power Oil-clinched eight of the most coveted awards during the award ceremony.

According to the organisers of the award, the ADVAN Awards for Marketing Excellence is aimed at acknowledging and rewarding marketing professionals that have made outstanding contributions to the profession. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The ADVAN Awards for Marketing Excellence, West Africa, is a significant event that appreciates and commends the meticulous effort of marketing professionals towards the success and growth of the marketing industry in the West African sub-region,â&#x20AC;? the organisers said. At the award ceremony which held in Lagos, brands from the stable of Dufil Prima Foods Plc shone to the admiration of everyone who attended the event.

While Power Oil came first in the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Category, Indomie clinched third position in the Experiential Marketing Category of the year award.

Also, Indomie and Power Oil clinched second and third positions respectively in the Innovation Category of the Award, as Minimie Chinchin came third in the Campaign of The Year Category. The second and third place positions for Brand of the Year Category went to Indomie and Power Oil respectively, just as Indomie came third in the New Brand/Extension/ Revitalisation Category. Praising the performance of Dufil Prima Foods Plc performance during the award, ADVAN Awards organisers said the firm has consistently applied professional marketing principles to generate real measurable success for her various brands to the benefit of consumers in the sub-region.

Receiving the awards on behalf of Dufil Prima Foods Plc, the Chief Operating Officer (COO), Mr Sharma Girish, thanked the organisers of the award, noting that the performance of the various brands at the event is a great encouragement to the Dufil Prima Foods family. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We at Dufil really appreciate the various recognitions we have received through these awards. If ADVAN is saying through these awards that Dufil Prima Foods Plc is doing great, certainly that is the truth,â&#x20AC;? Girish said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But we also know that to whomever much is given, much more is expected. Therefore, we at Dufil Prima Foods Plc see these awards as incentives for us to do more in bringing different innovations into the production and marketing of our brands.

We will not disappoint in that regard.â&#x20AC;? The performance of the various brands from the stable of Dufil Prima Foods Plc during the ADVAN Awards is in line with an earlier ranking

by Kantar Worldpanel, an international brand ranking body which has been in existence for the past 60 years, and which rated Indomie in September as the Most-Chosen Noodles brand in the 2018 edition of Global Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) brands rating and top 8 in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Top 50 Rankingâ&#x20AC;? of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most-chosen FMCG brands.

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ART WEEKEND

â&#x20AC;ŚFor pure art enthusiasts

SoyinkaHonoursKhashoggiatWorldwideReadingforPressFreedom Yinka Olatunbosun reports on the special literary session marking the 70th anniversary of the Declaration of Human Rights at Freedom Park, Lagos, where the late Saudi journalist, Jamal Khashoggi, was honoured by Wole Soyinka

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I

canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t breathe.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Those were the last recorded words of the Saudi dissident journalist and author, Jamal Khashoggi who was last seen entering into the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul, Turkey on October 2, 2018.

It was widely reported in international media that Khashoggi had been killed and his body dismembered. With the shocking revelations trailing his death, the Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka deemed it fit to hold a special reading session at the Freedom Park, Lagos on Monday November 10 with civil rights societies, writers and journalists on the occasion of the Worldwide Reading for Freedom of the Press.

The session opened with A J Dagga Tolarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poetry titled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Breatheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, capturing the agony of a cold-blooded murder. For Soyinka, the reading was a show of solidarity to the slain journalist and writer.

On his part, the veteran journalist and one of the heroes of democracy in Nigeria, Kunle Ajibade reminisced on the life of Khashoggi and his exercise of freedom of expression even while on exile. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He started writing for The Washington Post and his column became so popular that the Washington Post started syndicating the column. It was a serious criticism of what was going on in Saudi Arabia and it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just the syndication of his column that Washington Post was doing. The Washington Post was also translating his pungent criticism into Arabic. You can see the context of the hatred for him. He was having a lot of followers on the social media. The younger elements started following him.

He became the scourge of the corruption that was going on in Saudi Arabia.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;When one of us is treated this way, it behooves all of us to rise in solidarity to condemn what had happened. Not that this can bring back the dead or prevent a reoccurrence but we can affirm our own humanity by doing so. We say we are human beings and you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t treat us like this,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; he said.

He lamented over the silence of some popular religious groups on the killing of Khashoggi. Ajibade remarked that it would have conferred some dignity on their association to openly condemn this murder the same way they had condemned the ban of Hijab and other matters of human rightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; violation.

Ajibade read the piece written by Jamal Khashoggi in The Washington Post on November 5 2017 titled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Saudi Arabiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crown Prince is acting like Putinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

While reacting to the assault on freedom of expression, the Coordinator, Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, Mrs. Motunrayo Alaka, raised concern on the ambiguity that surrounds the definition of hate speech in Nigeria. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When it is something said against the government, then it is hate speech, not minding whether that thing is true or the people are actually challenging the government. It is important to say at this occasion that it is not the mediaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business to make government look good. They have their PR officers who are paid to do that.

According to section 22 of our constitution, our job is to make government accountable,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; she said.

In his concluding remarks, Soyinka observed that although the United Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Universal Declaration of Human Rights may not have listed identity as a fundamental right, everyone deserves a right to his identity. He also expressed concern on a Facebook userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impersonation of

Temple Muse Hosts Victor Butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Exhibition in Nigeria Yinka Olatunbosun The clock ticks as Victor Butler, a leading international artist from Ghana shows his tasteful collection at Temple Muse, a luxury store in Victoria Island, Lagos. The theme for this show is Nuance.

Featuring 23 paintings on canvas and two prints, the self-taught artist is largely influenced by his African identity and culture which seep through his abstract surrealism.

With over 30 years of studio practice, this thoroughbredGhanaian artist arrived in Lagos just in time for the West Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier Art Fair, Art X where some of his works were featured.

In this show curated by SMO Contemporary Art, Butler gives a poetic interpretation of his African world-view using subject matters of humanity.

For instance, in his painting titled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Volunteerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, the artist offers a profound commentary on the decline in the spirit of volunteering. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Volunteering is what defines a community. It is giving a bit of your time for a common cause,â&#x20AC;? Butler said during a recent preview of his works. In another piece titled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mother and Daughter,â&#x20AC;? he examines the character-shaping role of a mother in the life of a girl-child. One of his works that stirred some debate in the room during the preview is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shelter IIIâ&#x20AC;?, which has a

One of Butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paintings titled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Witnessesâ&#x20AC;?

female figure in a cave with a book. Butler argued that the shelter for the woman in that painting does not come from the immediate environment but the imagined one created in the book.

His oil on canvas piece titled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Irokoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; is the artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way of making a comparative study of the iroko symbol in different cultural climate. In his findings, Iroko does not have the same sacred place in history in his home country, Ghana as it is in Nigeria or elsewhere.

In his work titled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Witnessesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Butler paints an abstract sea of faces with interwoven eyes, each fixing their stare on the same scene but with different interpretations, looks and depth of reasoning; some faces look complete while others have either one or two

eyes missing or altogether lack the ability to speak through mouthless faces. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nuance is one-of-a-kind journey of discovery into Butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world, exploring the meaning of community, culture, time and space, permanence versus relevance,â&#x20AC;? stated Sandra Mbanefo-Obiago.

In the same vein, the Director of Temple Muse, Avinash Wadhwani remarked that the works offer a glimpse to the future realities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nuance fits perfectly into both visual art and contemporary fashion as Butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s futuristic designs and forms resonate with a renaissance creative community in Lagos and beyond,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; he said.

The show, which is sponsored by Access Bank and VeuveClicquot, runs till January.

Soyinka during the worldwide reading for Freedom of the Press

him, adopting his identity while using a verification badge as his authorisation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am giving this fellow one week to

take down this page from Facebook or I will exercise my total, uncensored freedom of expression,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; he declared.

ObafemiWins 9Mobile Photography Competition Yinka Olatunbosun For the 2018 edition of the 9Mobile Photography Competition, with the theme, â&#x20AC;&#x153;9ja: My Grind, My Hustleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Christiana Obafemi has emerged as the winner with her image titled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;My Passion, My Strength.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; At the prize presentation which was held recently at Banana Island, Ikoyi, Obafemi received a brand-new canon camera for her emergence as one with the most outstanding shutterbug in this competition that was designed to empower budding photographers.

Bambi Daniel and Ayodeji Ogunro emerged as first and second runners-up with their images titled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Female Barberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Windâ&#x20AC;? respectively.

Modupe Thani, Head of Sponsorship and Experience, 9Mobile in her remarks at the ceremony emphasised 9Mobileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to talent development in Nigeria. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the things that 9mobile is known for from inception is the discovery and nurturing talents. There are lots of creative talents in this space and it is aligned to what we do as a telecommunications company. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will begin to move towards sponsoring exhibitions.

We have sponsored exhibitions in the past. We have partnered LagosPhoto and it was from there that we crafted this competition which is targeted at Nigerian youths,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; she said.

Meanwhile, the work titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Female Barberâ&#x20AC;? by Bambi

The winning works at the 2018 9Mobile Photography Competition

Daniel speaks of a woman working in a male-dominated industry. The work was selected for the use of artificial light to highlight the subject and other details in the visual narrative. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This work by Ayodeji Ogunro caught our attention almost immediately,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; said Kola Oshalusi, one of the judges. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We see the role of women in this work that captures agricultural life.

This is a very beautiful technique of sieving dirts from maize. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We see the Nigerian effect in it and the photographer didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just tell the story of the maize but the environment. We love the composition.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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FERTILITY

with DR. KEMI AILOJE Info@lifelinkfertility.com; Ă?Ă&#x152;Ă?Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x17E;Ă?Ë? lifelinkfertility.com 08033083580

Cost Implication: A Major Barrier Preventing Access to Fertility Treatment and Services (Part 2)

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re There Ways To Make Fertility Treatment Cheaper Or Source For Fertility Treatment Fund?

Finding the means to fund your IVF treatment can add a layer of stress which is the last thing you need when you are already struggling with the challenge of infertility. Highly sophisticated Assisted Reproductive Technology requiressubstantial financial investment and for many,paying for this type of treatment can seem out of reach. At the moment there are no insurance plans tailored towards IVF treatments in Nigeria.

Basically treatment option depends on the cause of infertility. Some patient presenting for infertility may require fertility awareness and education, ovulation monitoring and timed intercourse, induction of ovulation, and intrauterine insemination and may not require IVF. Early Presentation: The chances of pregnancy are higher in younger women than in older women. Hence cost of fertility treatment is likely to be cheaper in women aged 25 to 35years than older ones. Older women may require more cycles of IVF/ICSI treatment to get pregnant, while some women may require the use of donated egg/sperm or even surrogates which usually comes at a more expensive fee.

Several studies have shown that most infertile couple usually present at a much later age, past 37years when their fertility potential has drastically reduced. Couple presenting at their reproductive peak are more likely to incur less expenses for fertility treatment as compared to couple presenting with reduced fertility potential.

The best recommendation is that couple who have been trying for a baby for 12 months of regular unprotected sexual intercourse should seek medical help. Older women and womenwith condition that compromise fertility like irregularities in menses or have been diagnosed of Endometriosis, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and other gynecological abnormality should seek help early when attempting pregnancy and this will likely reduce the cost of fertility treatment.

Freezing: Women undergoing IVF are encouraged to freeze excess embryos.

Considering the overall success rate of IVF at first attempt, embryo freezing is an option to reduce subsequent cost of treatment. Frozen embryo transfer cycle is usually less than half the normal fee for fresh IVF cycle. Couple who

freeze their embryos earlier are also less likely to require donor gametes later in life should they want further attempts of IVF cycles thereby keeping cost of treatment fee far cheaper.

Fertility Support Group: Most fertility support groups are charitable organizations, usually offering a chance for couple to meet up and share experience with others who are also tryingto conceive. They serve to educate, advocate, support, and provide financial aid to members. Fertility support group can also help instill the discipline of savings for fertility as planning for fertility treatment is also crucial to the funding of fertility treatment. Lots of this group aboundsin our environment.

Some couple make up their mind that fertility treatment is expensive, hence they never get to do anything about

their fertility, so information is key.

Fertility Grants: Grants are free money that you do not have to repay.

There are several NGOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that provide fertility grants. Most of them have certain criteria and requirement that must be met to access. Which may often be subsidize or cover for fertility treatment.Fertility grants are not easy to find and qualifications are usually difficult to meet because it is usually free money.

Loans: An option for many couple who wish to spread out the cost of their IVF cycle over a more manageable amount of time. IVF loan seem the most viable for most people. Some financial institution offer medical loans or unsecured personal loans which can be used to pay or fertility treatment and there are companies who specialize in this type of lending. While some are even non-profit which offer interest free loans others may offer loan at a reduced interest rate. Criteria for eligibility include: r (PPE PS FYDFMMFOU DSFEJU TDPSF BOE history r4VGGJDJFOU JODPNF UP IBOEMF monthly payment r 7FSJGJBCMF FNQMPZNFOU TFMG employment record Some fertility clinics may offer favorable financing option to their patients, whether they want to cover the cost of an IVF cycle or cover expensive fertility medications. Some clinic offer professional discount to certain healthcare providers.

Educating yourself about the many financial options available to you is very empowering and may be a guide towards access to funds required for treatment.

with LEKAN FATODU

Overscenes

lekantodu@yahoo.com 08060140882

Seal of Excellence: Norway Names TaoďŹ k Adegbite Consul General to Nigeria

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ime and time again, Taofik Adegbite, the CEO of Marine Platforms, a leading oil services company, has continued to prove his mettle and shatter his own records of lofty attainments to push for even loftier goals.

Just when it appears the highly driven entrepreneur would slow down a little bit, having covered significant miles in his pursuits of great attainments, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when he revs up in pursuit of another goal, usually one deemed mission impossible by many mortals.

It is not that Taofik is an extra-ordinary being. In fact, to borrow the term commonly used by Nigerians in examining the phenomenal rise and exploits of some certain individuals in the society, he does not have two heads.

But what he has got that is really going well and paying handsomely for him is passion for his dreams and spirited determination to raise the bar of excellence in his endeavours.

As a result, the self-effacing business mogul has become an enriching lesson in perseverance, hard-work and purpose; and a good example of the pre-eminence of the God factor. Though heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ever prepared in pursuit of his desires which has resulted in many desirable outcomes, Taofik will never cease to acknowledge the God element in the attainments of all his plans.

The cheery news of Taofikâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nomination and subsequent confirmation of the top Nigerian upstream oil and gas player as the Norwegian Consul General to Nigeria is undoubtedly the biggest testimonial of his impeccable personality, business integrity

Adegbite

and broad culture of corporate excellence.

And certainly the topmost in his collection of awards and honours which have all come on the back of his several meritorious endeavours.

Usually, most countries across the world, particularly the Western nations, do enlist some of their influential and accomplished citizens from diverse areas of human endeavours as representatives or as goodwill ambassadors with a view to having the selected individuals deploy their influence to help their countries expand and attain its international reach in trade and other worthy engagements.

But, obviously for more impact and accelerated gains, these countries are now moving beyond their shores to head-hunt for corporate gurus with business integrity, a prestige league made up of individuals like Taofik, to advance their interests in interna-

tional trade and diplomacy.

Norway is one of the economically strong countries in the world with absolutely fine records of bilateral relationships and engagements with the outside world.

The countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bilateral relationship with Nigeria predates Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s independence in 1960 and Norwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current trade transactions with us is valued at $30bn annually. Little wonder that Norway is pushing forward to deepen exchange of opportunities between the two countries and also acknowledging an illustrious Nigeria who has contributed immensely to the sustenance of mutually beneficial engagements between Nigeria and Norway.

Taofik is wholly Made in Nigeria; and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always proud to bear the tag. He perfectly fits into the narrative of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;can-do-spiritâ&#x20AC;? inherent in most Nigerians. His remarkable achievement is a powerful evidence of the greatness that can be reached by Nigerians to the benefit of their country when given better opportunities and policies to unleash their potential.

So, as one of the captivating success stories of the Nigerian Content Law, a legislation that provides considerable latitude for the participation of Nigerians and the use of local capacity in the Oil and Gas industry, Taofik has been leading the way in highlighting the benefits of the law to potentially competent Nigerians to explore it.

Indeed, in Taofik and other accomplished entrepreneurs of his ilk, Nigeria has a new tribe of economic players and reputable non-state actors that can be useful for the advancement of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interests in the international community and in facilitating huge foreign investments and transactions to Nigeria.

But how fast Nigeria would move to begin

to tap into this enormous pool of human resources in the country and ensure the development and appreciation of more people with rewarding capacity in the manner of Norway, is the disturbing poser that is yet to be answered.

Presently, Taofik is unarguably the most visible Nigerian in the business community in Norway especially from the latest massive diplomatic honour presented to him by the Norwegian government. And his company, Marine Platforms, is a major reference point in that country when it comes to discussions on excellent corporate governance and integrity in Africa.

Marine Platforms boast of multi-milliondollar assets including two multi-purpose field and ROV support vessels which, though built in Norway, are symbolically branded African Inspiration and African Vision; a workforce of over 120; impressive global oil clientele and astounding annual turn-over through which the company makes significant contribution in tax payment to the Nigerian government.

There are obviously few other Nigerians with similar reputable credentials who, like Taofik, operate with the same measure of corporate credibility that fits into global best practices.

So, the task is now before the Nigerian government to renew its commitment in raising and encouraging economic stars amongst its citizens for greater gains.

In the meantime, I say big congratulations to Taofik for making Nigeria proud through his latest diplomatic achievement, which I believe will serve as another potent elixir for Nigeria to get its act right.

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: Last week, we ran the story with another headline. The error is regretted

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THISDAYt '3*%": %&$&.#&3 Ċč ċĉĊđ

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METRO

â&#x20AC;ŚYour city life in print

Pomp as Saviourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministries Celebrates Anniversary The glory of the latter days and an entrenchment of a new breed of Cherubim and Seraphim church members was the focal point of discussion as The Saviourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministries Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide, Ago Igbala Orisunmibare held its annual adult anniversary and thanksgiving services. Sunday Ehigiator reports

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s early as 11:00am, last week Sunday, all roads led to The Saviourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministries Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide Pro Cathedral National Headquarters located at 155 Obafemi Awolowo Way, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja, Lagos. Given the calibre of event, the area witnessed an unusual and unprecedented human and vehicular traffic.

Their aim was to celebrate the 2018 Adult Harvest and Thanksgiving Ceremony with a notable man of God, His Eminence Primate Dr. Solomon â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Niran Aluko, the Baba Aladura and Founder of the church.

The ceremony witnessed the influx of notable personalities from the political, business and religious sector of the country into the brand-new church auditorium to celebrate the Thanksgiving service.

In his welcome address, Primate Aluko said the thanksgiving service is to celebrate the breaking of a new dawn in the church which is the promise of the Latter Glory. â&#x20AC;&#x153; The theme, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Latter Gloryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; connotes the glorious manifestation of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hands in our lives. I implore everyone who is present at this Thanksgiving to make this theme your watchword as you go into the new year by doing the will of God always. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This anniversary is not about making merry alone, but also to evaluate our spiritual life and that Godly prosperity is permitted by our creator, hence the theme â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Latter Gloryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; which connotes glorious manifestation of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hands in our lives that superseded every previous situation in our lives,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Chairperson of the Harvest Committee, Supt. Apostolic Mother Abosede Osinowo, in her address, thanked everyone who made the event the huge success that it was.

Speaking on the harvest anniversary, Osinowo said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We as members of Cherubim and Seraphim anytime from July always have a ceremony called the Annual Adult Harvest Anniversary. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is an avenue to showcase the goodness of the Lord in our lives all through the year and to express gratitude to God for his mercies. It is a time to celebrate, dance and make merry.â&#x20AC;?

Speaking on how the harvest committee arrived at the title of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Harvest of Latter Gloryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Osinowo went biblical to explain that the promise of God was that the glory of the latter days would be greater than that of the former, adding that what is witnessed in the present day Cherubim and Seraphim is a strong departure from what used to be the norm inthe past. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What has happened in the past in the church will be nothing to compare with what God is going to do in our midst very soon. We are a new breed of Seraphs which is a clear departure of what usedto be the situation in the past. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We flaunt ourselves in the Lord and make the whole world see that we are a new generation of Christians who have been blessed by God, well dressed in sparkling white garmentswhich is our signature dress code and not the smelly ones of the past. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We make the whole world to see the glory of God in our lives and that we serve a living God as a lot of good things have been happening in our church lately and it is just a tip of the iceberg. We are marching into the new glory which is the latter glory,â&#x20AC;? she said.

In the sermon of the day, the preacher, Archbishop Michael Olufemi Akinsola, took members of the church on an enthralling journey into the word of God. Speaking on the theme â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Latter

Baba Aladura Niran Aluko and Supreme Head of C&S UniďŹ cation Church of Nigeria, Solomon Alao with Apostolic Mother Bose Osinowo, at the event

L-R: Bro. Muyiwa Odedina, Apostolic Mother Bose Osinowo, Apostolic Mother Idowu Philips (a.k.a Iya Rainbow) and a guest at the event

Gloryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Rev. Akinsola urged every member of the church to brace up for the break of a new dawn in the church, which will take the church to the height it deserves as the first truly Pentecostal church in the country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think it is time for people to know the truth about the Cherubim and Seraphim church, for so long the church has been treated as an outcast because of lack of knowledge that the church is the first true indigenous Pentecostal church

What has happened in the past in the church will be nothing to compare with what God is going to do in our midst very soon. We are a new breed of Seraphs, which is a clear departure of what used to be the situation in the past

in the country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So, an enlightenment message like this will go a long way in changing the perception of people about the church,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Speaking also on the forthcoming general election in the country, Akinsola urged all Christians to go out enmasse to vote for the right candidate. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A new election year is fast approaching, so I want to urge every Christian to ensure that they go out there to vote and vote their conscience and not be swayed by material things,â&#x20AC;? he concluded.

To further underscore the new change in the Cherubim and Seraphim fold, the church launched its new Sunday School Manual for the year2019.

Midway into the service, the Supreme Head (C&S) Unification Church of Nigeria, His Most Eminence Prophet Dr. Solomon Alao made his majestic entry to celebrate with one of the leading members of the Cherubim and Seraphim Unification Church of Nigeria.

Soon, it was time for the thanksgiving ceremony proper. All the invited guests and members of the church all trooped out to honour God

with their substance.

When it was time for Apostolic Mother Osinowoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s turn to do her thanksgiving, the atmosphere became charged with joy as the whole church rose in unison to celebrate with her as she danced, sang in the presence of the lord.

At the end of the thanksgiving ceremony, invited guests and all church members were treated to a sumptuous array of local delicacies, while a guest artist was on the music stand to render sonorous music as the crowd danced away into the night. It was indeed a befitting climax to a glorious ceremony.

The Saviours Ministries Cherubim & Seraphim Church today has branches across the world including America and the United Kingdom.

Many notable men and women of the clergy were in attendance at the glamorous event. Among them were famous leader of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Genesis International Parish, Alagbado, Lagos State, Prophet Israel Oladele, otherwise known as Genesis, Lord Bishop Femi Adepoju of JASFEM international ministry; Apostolic Mother Idowu Philips â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a veteran actressand various many spiritual heads of Christian denominations in the country.

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LIFE

20 Years After, Encomiums Pour for Late Industrialist, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Lord of Rumensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Akintunde Akinwale

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wenty years after his death, Late Chief Abubakar Sadiq Ajisomo Olatunji Alabi, has remained a figure whose memories have not been forgotten by many Nigerians. For those who came across him during his lifetime, the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Lord of Rumensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; as he was fondly called, was an epitome of generosity, kindness and service to humanity.

While many wealthy individuals live their lives to please themselves and their family members, Late Chief Alabi touched the lives of many people.

His lifetimes prove truth to the saying â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the good one does lives after him.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; His early life Chief Alabi grew up in Abeokuta, Ogun State, precisely Oke-Ona, a suburb of the ancient city. Born on February 12, 1915, to the family of Alhaji Muktar Alabi Alamutu and Alimotu Sadia Kanleara, he had his early education at Holy Trinity School in Ikereku, Abeokuta from 1930 to 1933. However, he couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t complete his education at the school as his parents later relocated to Lagos, where he later attended the Methodist Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; High School.

To secure a bright future for himself, the then young Alabi began learning trade, both practical and theoretical, under United Africa Company Ltd, where he spent eight years. His knowledge and efficiency became known to the management of the company as well as the parent company in France. This led to bigger opportunity for him.

The todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success story of Total Oil Nigeria Limited will not be complete without mentioning the giant stride of Chief Alabi.

How? His journey to success began in 1956, when he was invited by Compagnie Francaise Des Petroles, Paris, France, the parent company of United Africa Company Ltd, to join others in establishing Total Oil Nigeria Ltd. Like the proverbial golden fish that has no hidden place, his commitment, dexterity, brilliance and technical know-how also manifested during the 18years he spent helping to establish

the oil company, as he successfully carried out the assignment. He performed this duty so successfully, that he was further appointed as consultant advisor to the firm, apart from having become a major shareholder.

His businesses After serving various establishments for many years, Chief Alabi thought wise to establish his own companies. This he did when he singlehandedly brought the famous Carrara Marble Company Ltd into Nigeria and transformed it into the biggest workshop in Africa. Shortly after arriving Nigeria, the company became the toast of both government and private construction companies.

It began to enjoy patronage. Some of the works carried out by the company includes the then Nigerian Building industry, the Presidential lounge of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Nigerian Industrial Development Bank Limited Headquarters, British High Commission, Australian High Commission, Stock Exchange and Lagos State Secretariat, amongst others.

His business interests are not limited to marble.

He was also a real estate, oil and gas, construction and farming expert. Until his death on November 12, 1998 he was chairman of several companies such as Tapol Nigeria Ltd., Kohler Construction Company Ltd, Elkuch Nigeria Ltd, Datamatics Company Ltd, Intercare Ltd, Vice-Chairman Red Fox Industries Nigeria Ltd, Chaiman Nigeria Marine & Trading Company Ltd and Sole Proprietor Cornerstone Estate.

Philanthropic gestures and contribution to sports Chief Alabi understood the importance of giving back to the society, thus he was known as a philanthropist. His philanthropic gestures endeared him to many people as he was generous and likeable. He was responsible for opening up the fishing village of Makoko, an otherwise landlocked habitat of fishermen and craftsmen in the late 1950â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, by building a model estate. In appreciation for transforming the community, he was given the title â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mayor of Makokoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

He earned the nickname â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Lord of Rumensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, when in the late 1960â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, he transformed the condemned and abandoned swamp on Rumens

Lord of Rumens

Road, Falomo, lkoyi, into an estate befitting a metropolis like Lagos, thus earning himself the name â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Lord Rumensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

His contributions to the development of sport in Lagos have been hailed by sport loving Lagosians, including the state government. He was a lover of Lawn Tennis, thus he dedicated his time and resources to developing Lawn Tennis in the country.

He became the President of the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club in 1966, and helped the game with his generous sponsorship and modernization of the club. During his reign, he initiated the Lagos Tennis Classic, which saw the participation of many international tennis stars.

In 1971, he brought the likes of the late Arthur Ashe and Stan Smith to Nigeria for a tournament.

The main court of the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club is currently name after late Chief Alabi in honor of what he did for the sport. Since his demise, several lawn tennis tournaments have been held in his honor.

Chief Alabi was survived by six children; George, Subuola, Babatunde, Awujoola, Oluwakemi, Opeyemi, all of whom are successful in their careers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He was that compassionate, loving, dotting and discipline father who never spared the rod.

His sermon on the dinning table for us was always about hard work and discipline. For relatives and friends, he was that reliable man who never turned away anyone in need. Even strangers who were opportuned to meet him, had good tales to tell,â&#x20AC;? says the children.

Fond Memories of My Mother, Grace Modupe Badejo Yetunde Badejo

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he always had a smile on her face. Even when circumstances seemed unfavourable, that smile never left her face. My mother would laugh at anything, even at the least funny thing. Indeed, she appreciated the simple pleasures of life and found happiness in most difficult circumstances.

Obviously, it must be this light-heartedness pleasant disposition of hers that won her so many friends.

Sisi, as my brothers and I fondly called her, was the soul of our home. She would listen patiently to our accounts of our busy day. Without being judgemental, she would listen to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;funnyâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;weirdâ&#x20AC;? things we told her. Then, she would offer her words of encouragement to each one of us, urging us to soldier on. Eventually, she would celebrate our achievements, no matter how littleâ&#x20AC;Ś Mother left this world on the morning of November 14, 2018. That was when we realised that we had lost our best friend. Who would have taught us integrity, contentment, respect for humanity and how to pray the way she did? And talking about prayers, we never missed church services. She would never accept any excuse for neglecting oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service to the Lord.

As a hard worker, she never tolerated laziness. I recall how, growing up with my two brothers, she used to share household chores and responsibilities between us. Whenever we argued among ourselves or quarrelled about who had the most chores, she would often tell us: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s division of labour.â&#x20AC;?

I could go on and on about Mummy. But, whatever I recall or say about her will always revolve around the capitalised keywords: Prayerful, Warm, Kind, Disciplined, Supportive, Virtuous, Focused and Intelligent.

To her, everything was possible so far as the Almighty God was involved.

Her social life was anything but dreary. She had good sartorial taste, loved nature so much that she enjoyed planting flowers, loved taking

Badejo

photographs and dancing, even as she would recite a thousand â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you, Jesus rosary, which she never missed. She would religiously go for her morning evangelism at the local bus-stop with her team but would not miss her political news on TV or the Indian soap opera, Twist of Fate on Zee World channel.

A rare gem, who lived solely for her children.

That was my mother. To her, no sacrifice was too big or small for us.

Mummy was great company for young and old, men and women. She abhorred injustice and arrogance. She used unconventional and powerful ways to teach her children life les-

sons. I know she is now proud of us. After all, she laboured to see us excel.

Born in February, 22, 1952, Mummy bore the names Grace Modupe. She was born into the family of Ogunleye Ojo of Atetedaye Quarters, Ifaki-Ekiti.

Otunba Grace Modupe Badejo was a beautiful lady. She attended her Government Primary School Owo and Saint Louis Catholic School, Owo (both in Ondo State), where she was both the dormitory and table prefect in 1974.

She later attended Faith Christian Theological Seminary from 1966 to 2000, where she obtained a doctorate degree.

She worked briefly with Federal Ministry of Internal Affairs (Nigerian Prisons Service) from August 1974 to August 1978. During this period, she worked at the Ado-Ekiti Prison, trained at the Enugu Prison Training School and in Okitipupa Prison, where she finally resigned in 1978. She joined UAC Property Division in August 1978, from where she was transferred to A. J. Seward, Oregun Ikeja. She rose to Supervisory level before resigning in March 1998 to establish several mini neighbourhood stores within Lagos State.

In 2014, she was installed, Otun Iyaloja of Ajuwon Market by HRH Oba Nuradaon Egunsola, The Alayiwon of Ajuwon. In December 2017, she was crowned the Yeye Baobagunwa of Ijelu, Ekiti.

Called to the service of the Lord, she ran a motor park evangelical ministry for over 10 years with a team of able God-sent men and women. She was a devout Catholic and member of Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary Society and Night Adorer.

A committed Christian and leader, she would be remembered for the genuine love she showered on her fellow humans while on earth.

Mummyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remains will be interred at the Badejoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residence, 5, Adeniyi Badejo Close, Iju-Ajuwon, Ogun-State in Ajuwon, Ogun State after a funeral service at the St Alphonsus Catholic Church along Akute-Ajuwon road in Ogun State from 10 am. A reception follows at S & Y Events Centre, Iju-Ajuwon Road, Cele-Bus stop, Lagos.

These events would be preceded by services of songs and Christian wakes at the Badejoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residence on Thursday, December 20.

Mummy, it really hurts us to see you gone.

Life indeed will be different without yo u.

Our assurance is that you have gone to be with the Lord. Till we meet to part no more, accept the warmest wishes from your darling husband, Otunba Christopher Adeniyi Badejo, and children, Anthonia Yetunde Badejo, Dr Christopher Adeniyi Badejo (jnr) and Michael Adegbenga Badejo. t #BEFKP XSJUFT GSPN -BHPT

41

T H I S D AY Ëž ͯͲË&#x153; Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś

BUSINESSWORLD

Maersk Sets Net Zero CO2 Emission Target by 2050 Eromosele Abiodun Aimed at accelerating the transition to carbon neutral shipping, Maersk has announced its goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2050.

The company in a statement said to achieve this goal, carbon neutral vessels must be commercially viable by 2030, and acceleration in new innovations and adaption of new technology is required. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Climate is one of the most important issues in the world, and carrying around 80 per cent of global trade, the shipping industry is vital to finding solutions. By now, Maersk´s relative CO2 emissions have been reduced by 46 per cent (baseline 2007), approximately nine per cent more than the industry average. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As world trade and thereby shipping volumes will continue to grow, efficiency improvements on the current fossil based technology can only keep shipping emissions at current levels but not reduce them significantly or eliminate them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The only possible way to achieve the so-much-needed decarbonisation in our industry is by fully transforming to new carbon neutral fuels and supply chains, â&#x20AC;?said Chief Operating Officer at A.P. Moller â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Maersk, Søren Toft.

Maersk, he stated, is putting its efforts towards solving problems specific to maritime transport, as it calls for different solutions than automotive, rail and aviation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The yet to come electric truck is expected to be able to carry max 2 TEU and is

projected to run 800km per charging. In comparison, a container vessel carrying thousands of TEU sailing from Panama to Rotterdam makes around 8800km. With short battery durability and no charging points along the route, innovative developments are imperative. Given the 2025-year life time of a vessel, it is now time to join forces and start developing the new type of vessels that will be crossing the seas in 2050,â&#x20AC;?

Toft added.

According to him, next 5-10 years are going to be crucial and â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will invest significant resources for innovation and fleet technology to improve the technical and financial viability of decarbonised solutions. Over the last four years, we have invested around USD 1bn and engaged 50+ engineers each year in developing and deploying energy efficient solutions.

Going forward we cannot do this alone.â&#x20AC;?

He added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Research & Development is key to take the industry away from todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fossil based technology and by setting this ambitious target, Maersk hopes to generate a pull towards researchers, technology developers, investors, cargo owners and legislators that will activate strong industry involvement, co-development, and sponsorship of sustainable solutions that we are yet to see in the maritime industry. In 2019, Maersk is planning to initiate open and collaborative dialogue with all possible parties to tackle together one of the most important issues in the world; the climate change.â&#x20AC;?

Chi Limited Wins Award CHI Limited has once more been recognised amongst the foremost brands, at the recently held â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Top 50 Brands Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; awards.

As one of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading manufacturers of fruit juices, dairy products and snacks, at the heart of this recognition are products like Chivita and Hollandia which are benchmarks and definitive standards in their respective categories.

A statement explained that by identifying needs and meeting them, adopting innovative approach to consumer trends, delivering on their value proposition and effectively communicating same to the consumer, Chivita and Hollandia have become household names in Nigeria.

It noted that by using specific criteria including brand popularity, category leadership, innovation, national spread, corporate social responsibility and online engagement to measure brands, organisers of the award evaluated and celebrate top brands that had consistently maintained leadership position in their categories, living up to their promises to become a part of the popular culture, owning properties and associations that evoke positive emotion from consumers.

According to Taiwo Oluboyede, CEO of Top 50 Brands Nigeria, the top brands for this

year were those that are fast growing in value and have succeeded in delivering their promise to the consumers.

He noted that these brands have adopted a winning habit of delivering something special by often doing ordinary things in extraordinary ways. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chivita and Hollandia from the stable of CHI Limited are two brands that have stood out in their categories for their conscious effort to build equity by offering healthy products with superior value and insightful consumer engagements that shape how consumers experience the brands,â&#x20AC;? he said.

For CHI Limitedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marketing Director, Mr. Probal Bhattacharya, the recognition was a welcome development for a brand that had prioritised consumersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expectations and need for health, nutrition and refreshment with the best quality juices and value added dairy products. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are delighted about the award because it is a reflection of our commitment in ensuring only the best in juice and value added dairy products are made available by us to meet consumersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expectations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chivita and Hollandia will continue to deliver on the promise of superior value and innovation by identifying consumer needs and meeting them,â&#x20AC;? he said.

NEWS

AIB Releases International Aircraft Investigation Report in Sao Tome Chinedu Eze

Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) Nigeria has released timely and accurate air accident report in Sao Tome and Principe, thus setting a new record in the sub-region.

The agency said this was as a result of effective collaboration and corporation the Bureau has garnered in the last 24 months with the aviation stakeholders and the endless work by the Bureauâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investigators.

The Commissioner/CEO, Akin Olateru recently led his team to submit the final report of the accident involving Cavok Airlines

CVK 7087 AN-74TK-100 Aircraft Registered UrCKC, which occurred at Sao Tome International Airport, Sao Tome on 29th July, 2017.

The Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA) had invited AIB Nigeria to conduct an investigation into this crash, which by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annexe 13 is the responsibility of the state of occurrence.

AIB said this was very significant as for the first time in the history of the bureau, accident investigation was handled

by the Bureau on behalf of another state or a regional body.

The delegates visited the Nigerian Embassy and were received by the Charge De affaire, Mrs Faith. Ekwekwuo.

She welcomed and appreciated the good job the Bureau did to have helped investigate the air accident and release of the final report. She also commended the Bureau for maintaining a good relationship with the Sao Tome authorities.

In the same vein, the Bureau came into terms and executed a Memorandum of Understanding with

the Instituto Nacional De Aviaco Civil (National Civil Aviation Authority of Sao Tome& Principe) of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome.

The agreement was in four parts - cooperation, capacity building, exchange of information on accident investigation and assistance in cases of any air accident within both countries.

This was a bid to further strengthen a good relationship and effective collaboration towards achieving a common goal in the air accident investigation sector in Africa.

GAS TRANSPORTATION

L-R: Managing Director, West African Gas Pipeline Company(WAPCo), Walter Perez; Director-General, West African Gas Pipeline Authority (WAGPA), Debo-Kâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mba Barandao, and Chief Executive OďŹ&#x192;cer, Axxela, Bolaji Osunsanya, during the recent signing of a gas transportation agreement between Axxela and WAPCo in Accra, Ghana...recently

Oriental Energy List Programmes for Host Communities Okon Bassey in Uyo

Oriental Energy Resources Limited has attributed the success it achieved in Akwa Ibom State to maintaining a close working relationship with relevant government agencies, community-based and non-governmental organisations.

The oil company also affirmed its commitment to safe operations and sustainable development of its host communities in the state; with operations done in line with international best practices.

Briefing newsmen in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom state capital recently, the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Head of Community and Government Relations, Dr Uwem Ite, stressed the importance of corporate social responsibility.

He said the Oriental Energy had carried out many social investment initiatives and

programmes within its host communities in Akwa Ibom State since the commencement of operations.

He listed such investment and programmes to include, annual free medical outreach, scholarship awards to students in tertiary institutions as well as the multimillion-naira 100 housing units called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Oriental Village,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; currently under construction in Enwang, the headquarters of Mbo Local Government Area.

Other social investment initiatives include enterprise development scheme, and support for University of Uyoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Departments of Petroleum and Chemical Engineering, among others. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We conducted a oneweek free medical outreach in July this year for 4000 beneficiaries drawn from Effiat, Enwang, Uda, Ebughu and Udesi communities in Mbo Local Government Area and

its environs.â&#x20AC;? he said.

He explained that the outreach held at Enwang Primary Health Centre addressed several unmet health care needs of the beneficiaries, which included traditional rulers, men, women, youths and school children. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Also, free medical supplies were distributed including pregnancy kit bags for 200 expectant mothers as well as dental and hygiene kits for school children. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Again, as part of our efforts to contribute to human capital development in our host communities, we instituted an annual scholarship scheme for students in tertiary institutions. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since 2009, more than 850 students have received financial support from Oriental Energy to complete their education through the scholarship programme. For instance, 65 per cent of the total number of awards were

made to indigenes of Mbo communities in the 2018/2019 academic session. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It would also interest you to know that in 2017, we launched a 700-million-naira modern residential estate in Enwang, the headquarters of Mbo Local Government Area. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The secured estate named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Oriental Village Mboâ&#x20AC;? is currently under construction and consists of 100 housing units, six learning centers and a clinic will be powered by a solar electrification system.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;When completed, the housing units will be given to free to the beneficiaries from Effiat and other Mbo communities in Akwa Ibom State. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The allocation framework of the housing units and management of the estate for sustainability has been developed and agreed by the relevant stakeholders.â&#x20AC;?

42

F R I DAY Ëž DECEMBER 14, 2018

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

FG Restates Commitment to Developing Mines Sector Nume Ekeghe Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x2DC;Ă&#x17D; Sunday Ehigiator The Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Hon. Abubakar Bawa Bwari, has the federal government is committed to the development of the mines sector in order to drive sustainable growth in the country.

He said this while delivering a speech at the ground-breaking ceremony of Kian Smith Gold Refinery, the first licenced indigenous gold mining company in Nigeria located in Ogun State.

Bwari said the sector would play a major part in increasing the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foreign exchange

earnings.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;As you are all aware, the present administration is determined to develop a mining sector as a catalyst to sustainable economic growth of the country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As part of our marching orders in the ministry, we are expected to develop this sector to increase its contribution to the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gross Domestic Product, improve its capacity to create jobs, and achieve sustainable mining. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In fulfilment of that mandate, we develop a roadmap, for the growth and development of the sector and identified several strategic minerals for priority attention with gold as

the commodity that will get utmost priority.â&#x20AC;?

He further said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the focus of the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan of this administration, we discovered that a well organised gold value chain can trigger our economic revolution, like it did in India, South Africa, Switzerland, and others. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Consequently, there is a proposed Gold Purchase Scheme with the primary purpose of developing the gold value chain, through well-articulated supply chain strategies that will lead to the production of gold products, through value addition.

Nosak Supports Drive for Domestic Production The Nosak Group, makers of Nosak Famili Vegetable Oil and Nosak Famili Pure Palm Oil, has expressed its commitments in promoting homemade food products at the on-going maiden edition of Edo Food and Agric Trade Fair.

In a paper on the topic: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Growing Edo State Economy and Agric Value Chain Using the Bottom-Up Model of Development,â&#x20AC;? the Chief Operating Officer, Nosak Group, Thomas Oloriegbe, called for the closure of the infrastructural gap such as access roads, electricity, water supply, amongst others.

Oloriegbe added that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Farmers should be educated on the ways they can grow their businesses by embracing the financial opportunities through the various Agric intervention

funds provided by the Central Bank of Nigerian (CBN) and the Bank of Industry (BOI) as well as organised Cooperative Societies.â&#x20AC;? Accessing these funds would further improve the value chain and encourage more participation of the local farmers into agricultural practice in large scale, he explained.

Using the Nosak Group Example, he said through Saturn Farms Limited; a plantation of 1,053 hectares with three tons milling capacity of palm oil and Nosak Farm Produce Limited; a refining/processing plant with 200 tons refining capacity, the Group was improving the value chain by putting to use the bottom-up model to enhance productivity and inclusiveness in agricultural practice.

He added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nosak Group

has also negotiated with three communities for land leases and crop compensation at mutually agreed terms. They are: Obagie Community â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10,000 hectares, Igieduma Community â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7,000 hectares and Evbueghae in Orhionmwon local government â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5,000 hectares. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is further evidence that Nosak Group will continue to invest in the Agric sector for the benefit of the Nigerian people.â&#x20AC;?

The fair is to showcase foods produced in the Edo State and also sell same to Edo people at lower prices to enable them shop effectively for the yuletide season. It is also a convergence for famers and agro allied industries to meet and exchange ideas on the best practices to grow the agricultural sector of the state.

L-R: Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in a handshake with the Executive Director, Commercial and Consumer Banking,Lagos&SouthWest,FidelityBankPlc,NnekaOnyeali-Ikpeattheongoing2018Intra-AfricanTradeFair in Cairo, Egyptâ&#x20AC;Śyesterday

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS Broad Money (M2)

24,303,049.86

-- Narrow Money (M1)

10,912,604.10

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,668,378.21

---- Demand Deposits

9,244,225.90

-- Quasi Money

13,390,445.76

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

15,619,134.18

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

8,683,915.68

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

Access Bank Wins Sustainability Awards The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has named Access Bank Plc the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Most Sustainable Bank of the Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the 2018 edition of its annual awards for sustainability which held in Lagos recently.

Coming twice in as many years, the recognition, according to a statement validates the commitment of the Herbert Wigwe-led financial institution to position sustainability at the core of its operations and service delivery. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It follows several successes recorded by the bank in the year under review especially in the areas of sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR),â&#x20AC;? the statement added.

It further revealed that the bank also received top prize in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Excellence in Women Economic Empowermentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sustainable

Transaction of the Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; categories for its achievements in the oil and gas and power sectors.

In his reaction to the award recognition, Wigwe, who is the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank dedicated the victory to the staff and customers of the financial institution while appreciating them for their continued trust in its policies.

According to him, receiving such accolades from the CBN was an indication that the bank was on the right path with its sustainability efforts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are very excited to have been done this honour by the Central Bank of Nigeria. We see it as more than an award but an indicator that our efforts are been recognised and a challenge for us to keep at it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We dedicate these awards to our

loyal customers and committed staff members for believing in the bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision of helping to build a sustainable Nigeria and by extension, Africa,â&#x20AC;? Wigwe said. Also, the bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Head, Sustainability, Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan, expressed delight at the awards stating that such recognition would further boost the financial institutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest in sustainability in the years to come. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have in time past received several awards for our efforts in Sustainability but we are particularly excited about this one for obvious reasons especially as we are winning some categories back to back. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This further proves that our efforts are been recognised and duly rewarded, and for this, we are really grateful,â&#x20AC;?

Victor-Laniyan said.

Eczellon Capital Seeks MANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Partnership Eczellon Capital has expressed its preparedness to support manufacturers in Nigeria exploit alternative means of accessing capital. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chief executive, Diekola Onaolapo, made this known during a courtesy visit to the leadership of MAN in Lagos recently. The Eczellon Capital boss said the firm has a plan to help manufacturers in Nigeria address some of the challenges they face in the area funding.

Onaolapo said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Manufacturing is at the core of what we need to get right as a continent. We

are in the business of creating and allocation of capital; one of the most important tools for any economic activity and even economic development. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the issues we found for companies in Nigeria and Africa has been the wrong mix of capital, its inadequacy, the lack of access to it in its efficient form, in a way that it can facilitate economic activities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That is what we have dedicated ourselves to doing and in the last eight years.

We have been able to achieve some remarkable feat for both the public and private sector.â&#x20AC;?

On his part, the Director General of MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is no nation on earth that can be wealthy if they are not industrialised. In Nigeria where we have a population of 180 to 200 million, you cannot have people fully engaged by the government. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The surest way for you to ensure that people are employed is through manufacturing.â&#x20AC;?

He wondered why the manufacturing sector has not been given the attention it requires by successive governments in the country.

(MILLION NAIRA)

MARCH 2018

26,267,136.53

---- Credit to Government (Net)

3,823,345.45

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

5,433,209.43

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

-1,609,863.98

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

22,443,791.08

--Other Assets Net

-17,583,220.85

Reserve Money (Base Money)

6,746,646.49

--Currency in Circulation

1,668,378.21

--Banks Reserves

4,357,551.58 Ëž Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x;Ă&#x153;Ă?Ă? Ě&#x2039;

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

March 2018

Inter-Bank Call Rate

15.16

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

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

Ëž Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2DC;Ă?Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x153;ĂŁ Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2013;Ă&#x201C;Ă?ĂŁ Ă&#x2039;Ă&#x17E;Ă? Ě&#x2039; ͯ͹Ϲ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT TUESNDAY, 11 DECEMBER 2018

The price of OPEC basket of ďŹ fteen crudes stood at $58.57 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $59.72 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Oriente (Ecuador), ZaďŹ ro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

43

F R I DAY ˾ DECEMBER 14, 2018

MARKET NEWS

NSE Recognises Market Operators for Performance, Compliance Goddy Egene The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has announced winners of the 2018 NSE CEO Awards. The awards were designed to reward and motivate listed companies, dealing member firms, fund managers and issuing houses to attain higher levels of corporate governance, compliance and performance that reinforce investor confidence in the Nigerian capital market.

This year, NSE increased the award categories from three to 10 to reflect the dynamic nature of the market. Pilot Securities Limited was named the ‘Most compliant dealing member firm’ for 2018, having demonstrated the highest degree of compliance with the rules and regulations governing dealing members of the exchange in 2018.

Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers Limited won two awards for

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R

DEALS

dealing member firm with the highest volume and dealing member firm with the highest value of trades.

Stanbic IBTC Capital Limited, Vetiva Capital Management Limited and Cordros Capital Limited were joint winners of the award for issuing houses with the highest number of primary market transactions (equity). FBNQuest Merchant Bank Limited, ARM Securities Limited and Stanbic IBTC

S E C U R I T I E S

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

Capital Limited were adjudged winners of the award for issuing houses with the highest number of debt issuance (corporate bonds).

The award for issuing houses with the largest value in a single deal went to Stanbic IBTC Capital Limited and Union Capital Market Limited, for facilitating the highest value of deals on the exchange. First City Asset Management Limited won the award for fund manager

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

with the largest listed fund size.

According to the exchange, this award takes into cognisance the cumulative size of new funds listed on the exchange in 2018.

Seplat Development Company Plc emerged winner of the award for issuer with the highest number of disclosures, for issuing the highest number of non-structured disclosures during the year under review.

Nigerian Breweries Plc was named the most compliant

O F

listed company, for being an early filer of financial statements, complying with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Code of Corporate Governance with zero sanctions received during the year under review.

Speaking on the awards, the Chief Executive Officer of NSE, Mr. Oscar Onyema, said: “I congratulate and honour all the winners of The NSE CEO Awards.

1 1 / 1 2 / 2 0 1 8 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

44

THISDAYt '3*%": %&$&.#&3 Ċč ċĉĊđ

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

45

MARKET NEWS

Meristem Wealth Mgt Boss Calls for Efficient Distribution of ETFs Goddy Egene The Managing Director, Meristem Wealth Management Limited, Mr. Sulaiman Adedokun has urged capital market operators to introduce an industry-wide platform for the distribution of Exchange Traded Funds (ETF), saying this will help reduce cost and achieve economies of scale.

Adedokun stated this while speaking at the Exchange Traded Products Conference for 2018 organised by the Nigerian

Stock Exchange (NSE) in Lagos.

According to him, ETFs are veritable instruments for retail and institution investors, emphasizing that the driver of ETF should be returns on investment, which will require that there is a rebalance in index for proper spread. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To develop ETF, means developing index that mirrors strategy and philosophy, beyond returns on investment to enable it attract required interest,â&#x20AC;?

Adedokun said.

Generally, experts, who spoke

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager.

Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sharesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on the

at the conference said that lack of investor education accounts for why Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ETF has remained undeveloped with only nine issues to date, and valued at $15 million, compared to their South Africa counterparts with very large portfolios.

During a panel discussion chaired by Executive Director, Vetiva Capital Management, Damilola Ajayi, the panelists agreed that there was need for investor education and distribution channel that should be simple and connect to the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg.

Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 1212-2018, unless otherwise stated.

target audience.

Executive Director, Stanbic IBTC Asset Management, Shuaib Audu, said there is need to create market framework to help drive ETFs and called for regulatory framework to make ETFs open to insurance companies and pension fund administrators (PFAs).

He also suggested that securitised lending should be extended to ETF, to stimulate activities in the ETF segment of the market.

In his submission, Managing

Director, Greenwich Asset Management, Dayo Obisan, said there is the need for investor education, emphasizing on the need to create products that meet the needs of investors.

Obisan, who is also the President of Fund Managers Association of Nigeria (FMAN) identified the need for low cost products, and supporting also an industry wide platform for distribution.

Head, Investment & Research at Lotus Capital, Ndako Minjidad, said investor

education should take a different perspective, if possible the message should be passed in local languages.

He also said that investor education should be independent, calling on the regulator to take up the role and drive the awareness about ETF. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There should be sponsored researches, more conferences and strategic engagement with institutional investors, all of these he said were critical to deepening penetration,â&#x20AC;? Minjidad stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 1 270 1680 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund N/A N/A N/A Nigeria International Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund 0.83 0.84 0.69% ACAP Income Funds 0.63 0.63 6.98% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.70% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.21 2.23 -3.78% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Discovery Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Ethical Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 130.25 131.16 -14.14% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.36% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Paramount Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Women's Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.47% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 94.69 94.87 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 98.45 98.84 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.41% Coronation Balanced Fund 0.84 0.84 Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.16 1.16 10.59% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 12.09% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 11.28% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,172.65 1,173.41 11.74% FBN Heritage Fund 140.35 141.54 0.63% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.49% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional $112.71 $113.10 3.53% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail $112.43 $112.82 3.38% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 143.78 145.80 -9.37% FIRST CITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD fcamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcamltd.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Equity Fund 1.20 1.22 -6.99% Legacy Debt Fund 3.23 3.23 11.60% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.03 1.03 2.71% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 2,943.92 2,972.51 -1.40% Coral Income Fund 2,744.91 2,744.91 12.12% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.98% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 106.07 106.46 5.98% INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 11.90%

Vantage Balanced Fund 2.14 2.16 1.50% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 15.44% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 123.90 124.08 7.64% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD ďŹ ncon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.19 1.22 4.27% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,092.07 1,092.07 13.04% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 11.07 11.16 -14.44% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 11.44% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.33 1.35 11.46% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.15 12.21 10.05% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.64% SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 127.66 128.08 -1.58% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.69 1.69 14.13% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,293.90 2,308.58 4.39% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 188.45 188.45 8.22% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.94 0.95 -6.44% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 245.90 245.94 13.93% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 159.48 161.32 -10.94% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 11.94% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 8,371.73 8,473.41 -11.95% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.10 1.10 6.97% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.17 1.18 -1.34% United Capital Bond Fund 1.58 1.58 10.39% United Capital Equity Fund 0.70 0.71 -7.90% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.65% United Capital Eurobond Fund 106.76 106.76 6.67% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.08 1.08 3.73% ZENITH ASSETS MANAGEMENT LTD info@zenith-funds.com Web: www.zenith-funds.com; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 11.08 11.23 -8.43% Zenith Ethical Fund 12.09 12.20 -5.89% Zenith Income Fund 20.66 20.66 11.93% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.37%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

9.00 139.56 51.67

-20.11% 5.36% 1.65%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

10.19 114.58 87.06

10.29 117.00 88.69

-13.91% -19.79% -20.31%

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

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

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

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

3.98 7.16 14.41 12.21 141.19

4.02 7.24 14.51 12.41 143.19

-16.02% -25.07% -17.39% -37.75% 5.09%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

107.13

17.03%

SPECIALIST FUNDS Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund managerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website and FMANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

46

FRIDAY DECEMBER 14, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

WORLD OF ISLAM

INTERNATIONAL

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

Gunmen Kill 43 Tuaregs in Responsibility of Pluralism in Islam - 2 Ongoing Mali Violence John Andrew Morrow/IslamiCity (continued from last week)

Gunmen on motorbikes have killed 43 Tuareg civilians this week in north Mali, where clashes over land and scarce water are common, an official said on Thursday.

The violence compounds an already dire security situation in the desert region used by jihadist groups to launch attacks in Mali and across West Africa.

The identity of the assailants was unknown, but disputes between the nomadic Tuareg and herder Fulani ethnic groups have killed several hundred and displaced

thousands this year.

Menaka Town Mayor, Nanout Kotia, said 43 Tuareg died in a village 20 km (12 miles) away over the past two days.

“Armed men riding motorbikes attacked several nomadic campsites in Tinabaw.

They shot indiscriminately at the population,” Kotia said, adding security forces had been sent to the area.

Mali’s main Tuareg separatist group, the Coordination of Azawad Movements, said 47 Tuareg civilians were killed in the

Tinabaw area. Nobody has claimed responsibility.

Armed men killed 15 Fulani civilians in Mali’s central Mopti region earlier this month.

Mali has been in turmoil since Tuareg rebels and loosely allied Islamists took over its north in 2012, prompting French forces to intervene to push them back the following year.

They have since regained a foothold in the north and centre, tapping into ethnic rivalries to recruit new members.

Bolton: US to Counter China, Russia Influence in Africa The United States plans to counter the rapidly expanding economic and political influence of China and Russia in Africa, US National Security Adviser, John Bolton, has said.

In a prepared speech, he accused the two nations of using corrupt business practices with little regard for the rule of law to befriend African nations.

The United States’ No 1. priority will be developing economic ties with the region to create opportunities for American businesses and protect the independence of African countries, as well as U.S. national security interests, he said.

“Great power competitors, namely China and Russia, are rapidly expanding their financial and political influence across Africa,” Bolton said.

“They are deliberately and aggressively targeting their investments in the region to gain a competitive advantage over the United States.”

Bolton’s speech at the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, comes as U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, leaders of the world’s two largest economies, seek to resolve trade disputes that have roiled global markets and created economic uncertainty.

“China uses bribes, opaque agreements, and the strategic use of debt to hold states in Africa captive to Beijing’s wishes and demands. Its investment ventures are riddled with corruption,” Bolton said in his remarks.

Bolton had equally harsh words for Russia.

“Across the continent, Russia advances its political and economic relationships with little regard for the rule of law or accountable and transparent governance,” he said.

He accused Moscow of selling arms and energy in exchange for votes at the United Nations, “votes that keep strongmen in power, undermine peace and security, and run counter to the best interests of the African people.”

China’s development policies in Africa have been a concern for Washington as the United States seeks to ramp up development finance in the face of China’s global ambitions.

The head of the U.S. Overseas Private Investment

Corp (OPIC) said in July that China is saddling poor nations with unsustainable debt through large-scale infrastructure projects that are not economically viable.

In October Trump signed legislation overhauling the way the federal government lends money for foreign development,

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as ISIAKA SHERIFAT OKIKIOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as ISIAKA SHERIFAT OMOLARA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS DORATHY OROK AMANSO. now wish to be known and addressed as MRS DORATHY SAMUEL EFFIONG. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as KOLAWOLE BOLA OMOLOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as RASAQK AFUSAT . All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as AKANGBE MARIAM OLAJUMOKE, now wish to be known and addressed as OLOWU MARIAM OLAJUMOKE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as ASHAOLU HABIB D, now wish to be known and addressed as ASAOLU DAMILARE MOSES. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as BABALOLA BUKOLA OLUWATOYIN, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEOYE BUKOLA OLUWATOYIN. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

dŚŝƐ ŝƐ ƚŽ ŶŽƟĨLJ ƚŚĞ ŐĞŶĞƌĂů public that IBILA BAM EMMANUEL, IBILA BEM EMMANUEL AND IBILA BEN is the same person and one person. The general public should please take note.

I, AGUBUZOR AMECHI COLLINS ǁŝƐŚ ƚŽ ĚƌĂǁ ƚŚĞ ĂƩĞŶƟŽŶ ŽĨ Ăůů ĐŽŶĐĞƌŶĞĚ ĂƵƚŚŽƌŝƟĞƐ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ general public to the fact that I wish to be known and addressed as AGUBUZOR AMECHI COLLINS. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should take note.

creating a $60 billion agency intended largely to respond to China’s growing influence.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS. JOY EBERE UCHENDU, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. JOY EBERE ANOSIKE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS BLESSING OYEMWEN OMERE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS BLESSING OYEMWEN AIGBOGUN. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as AJALA KAFAYAT OMOWUNMI. now wish to be known and addressed as SALAWU KAFAYAT OMOWUNMI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OBIORA MONICA IFUNANYA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ADIMORA MONICA IFUNANYA. All former documents remain valid. EĂƟŽŶĂů LJŽƵƚŚ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐŽƌƉƐ ;Ez^ Ϳ͕ /ŶƐƟƚƵƟŽŶƐ and the general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as IGWE FRANCISCA KASARACHI, now wish to be known and addressed as EGHAREVBA FRANCISCA KASARACHI. All former documents remain valid. hE/> '͕ / E >KE'Z/ ,͕ ĂŶŬƐ and the general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS HAPPINESS CHIEHURA ONYEGBULE NWAONUALA. now wish to be known and addressed as MRS HAPPINESS CHIEHURA OBIA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as KAREEM RUKAYAT IKEADE, now wish to be known and addressed as OLAORE RUKAYAT IKEADE . All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as OLAWUMI GRACE DAMILOLA. now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OLATUNDE GRACE DAMILOLA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as SILAS CHIBUIKE CHIDERA VALENTINE. now wish to be known and addressed as CHIBUIKE CHIDERA VALENTINE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

Pluralism

I

slam, however, came to the scene with an entirely novel and unique approach: pluralism.

Unlike many other religions that insisted that salvation was for them and them alone, Islam insisted that salvation was within the reach of all righteous monotheists. So long as one believed in God, and one did good deeds and avoided evil deeds, one had hope in the mercy of Almighty God. As Almighty Allah, says in the Holy Qur’an: “Surely those who believe, and those who are Jews, and the Christians, and the Sabians, whoever believes in Allah and the Last day and does good, they shall have their reward from their Lord, and there is no fear for them, nor shall they grieve. (2:62) As Mustafa Akyol, the author of The Islamic Jesus, has observed: The fact that the Qur’an promised salvation to [the Sabians], along with Jews and Christians, reflects a theological liberality in early Islam that most contemporary Muslims would have a hard time to even consider.

I have studied Islam for over three decades. I too was taught that only Muslims were believers and that only Muslims went to Heaven. I was taught that Christians were mushrikin or polytheists. I was taught that the People of the Book were kuffar or infidels who were destined to eternal damnation in Hell. I studied all the so-called Muslim authorities who misrepresented and misinterpreted the Qur’an to suit their intolerant purposes.

I read all the so-called “authentic” traditions that extremists use to justify denying non-Muslims basic civil and human rights. I read all the socalled authoritative commentaries of the Qur’an that present an intolerant image of Islam. I can assert, openly, and unabashedly, that the extremist, fundamentalist, exclusivist, absolutist, fascist and supremacist interpretation of Islam is false. It represents a re-invention of Islam. It is not the Islam of the Rightly-Guided Caliphs. It is not the Islam of the Prophet Muhammad. And it most certainly is not the Islam of the Qur’an and the Islam of Almighty Allah.

Political Responsibility

When the Messenger of Allah established himself in Madinah, he consulted with Jews, Muslims, and polytheists, and created a constitution, the first of its kind in the political history of humanity. Known as the Covenant of Madinah, it placed all citizens on equal footing with equal rights and obligations.

The citizens of the city-state of Madinah consisted of Jews and Arab non-Muslims. They numbered in the tens of thousands. Muslims, however were a minority during the early days of Muhammad’s rule: they numbered in the hundreds. Nonetheless, the Prophet proclaimed that they were a ummah wahidah, a single community, a constitutional confederation.

The term mu’minin or believers is used almost a thousand times in the Qur’an. As Mustafa Akyol recognizes, the term “was a broad umbrella that could incorporate all monotheists”. In the Constitution of Madinah and in the Covenants of the Prophet, the Messenger of Allah described the People of the Book as mu’minin or believers.

And this makes perfect logical sense: anyone who believes in God is a believer. When the Messenger of Allah referred to his followers, those who embraced Islam, he used the term muslimin or Muslims. The Prophet spearheaded a movement of believers and created a Confederation of Believers.

The rightly-guided Caliphs used the title Amir al-Mu’minin, Leader of the Believers, not Amir al-Muslimin, Leader of the Muslims. They were the leaders of all the citizens of the Ummah.

As Mustafa Akyol explains, “The existence of different religious traditions on earth is not an aberration but, quite the contrary the very will of God”. As we read in the Holy Qur’an, And we have sent down the Book to you [Muhammad] with truth, confirming and conserving the previous Books. So judge between them by what God has sent down and do not follow their whims and desires deviating from the Truth that has come to you. We have appointed a law and a practice for every one of you. Had God willed, He would have made you a single community, but He wanted to test you regarding what has come to you. So compete with each other in doing good. And every one of you will return to God and He will inform you regarding the things about which you differed. (5:48) This is pluralism plain and simple, a condition or system in which various groups, principles, sources of authority or religious traditions co-exist in respect and tolerance. It is pluralism as defined by Diana L. Eck: energetic engagement with diversity; active seeking of understanding across lines of difference; encounter of commitments; and the language of dialogue.

One day, when the Prophet Muhammad was

in Madinah, a delegation of Christians visited him from Najran. They debated and discussed religious matters. They agreed on some issues.

They disagreed on other issues. When it came time for the Christians to perform their prayers, they excused themselves to leave the mosque. The Prophet Muhammad insisted that they pray in his mosque as it was a place of prayer and a house of God. And so the Christians prayed and celebrated mass in the mosque of the Prophet. This event is meticulously documented in Muslim sources.

Not only is it authentic, it is exemplary. It is the very embodiment of Islamic ethics. Compare that to the actions of ISIS…(and Boko Haram).

There are two visions of Islam that confront us today: an Islam of peace, mercy, tolerance, love, equality, and justice; and an Islam of war, cruelty, intolerance, hatred, inequality, and injustice; an Islam of terrorism, bloodshed, violence, misogyny, and bigotry. Forgive me if I have enough sense of decency and humanity to side with the former, True Islam, and repudiate all those who side with the latter which is nothing less than Anti-Islam.

Muslims, true Muslims, must agree to disagree, not only with non-Muslims, but with each other.

Had Allah willed, He would have made us all the same. He did not decree uniformity by means of barbarity, like ISIS wants to impose, but diversity and plurality under the wings of mercy. As Almighty Allah says in the Holy Qur’an: O humankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.

Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted. (49:13) The Qur’an abolishes sexism. The Qur’an abolishes racism. The Qur’an abolishes absolutism. It calls upon different religious traditions to “compete with each other in righteousness” (5:48). It calls upon different religious traditions to defer their differences to the ultimate judgment of God. It is what is known as irja or “postponement;” namely, deferring religious differences to the afterlife.

The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, never converted people by force. As Almighty Allah says in the Holy Qur’an, “There is no compulsion in religion” (2:256). Consequently, the Messenger of Allah invited people to Islam. If they accepted Islam, alhamdulillah, praise be to Allah. If they preferred to keep their religion, masha’ Allah, it was the will of Allah. Perhaps they would come into Islam in the future, insha’ Allah, if it is the will of Allah. The Prophet was perfectly clear on the subject. As he wrote in the Treaty with the Kings of Himyar, cited in the Sirah of Ibn Ishaq: If a Jew or a Christian becomes a Muslim, he is a believer with his rights and obligations. He who holds fast to his religion, Jew or Christian, is not to be turned from it.

As Abu al-Fath al-Samiri, wrote in the Continuation of his chronicle: The Prophet of Islam did not cause anyone distress throughout his life. He would present his belief before the people, accepting anyone who came to him, [yet] not compelling one who did not.

According to this 14th century Samaritan scholar, “Muhammad never mistreated any of the followers of the Law.” He also related a tradition transmitted

by Samaritan elders that stated that: “Muhammad was a good and mighty person because he made a treaty of friendship with the Hebrew People.”

If the People of the Book did not wish to embrace Islam, Almighty Allah called upon them to follow their scripture firmly. As we read in the Holy Qur’an: “So let the followers of the Gospel judge according to what God has sent down in it…..” (5:47).

This is exactly what the Messenger of Allah did.

He judged Jews on basis of the Torah; Christians on the basis of the Gospel; and Muslims on the basis of the Qur’an. And that is precisely what the Rightly-Guided Caliphs did. As Imam ‘Ali, may Allah be pleased with him, said when he assumed the Caliphate: Question me before you lose me. Question me, for I have the knowledge of those who came earlier and those who will come later. If the cushion (on which a judge sits) was folded for me (to sit on), I could give judgements to the people of the Torah by their Torah, to the people of the Gospels by their Gospels, to the people of Psalms by their Psalms and to the people of the Furqan (i.e. Qur’an) by their Furqan, so that each one of these books will be fulfilled and will declare, “O Lord, indeed ‘Ali has given judgement according to Your decree.

Conclusions

This is Islam, true Islam, the Islam of Allah, the Islam of the Prophet, and the Islam of all true Muslims. It is a religion that soothes the soul. It is a religion that satisfies the intellect with certainty.

It is a religion based on ethics and morality. It is a religion of piety and righteousness. It is a religion that provides people with rights as opposed to depriving people of rights. It is a religion of personal growth and development; a religion of social justice.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 14, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

47

NEWS

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

House Members Threaten to Boycott Buhari’s Budget Presentation Wednesday Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja Some members of the House of Representatives have threatened to boycott the next Wednesday’s presentation of 2019 budget estimates by President, Muhammadu Buhari, over a comment by the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udo Udoma, blaming the National Assembly for the delay in the presentation of the budget.

Barring unforeseen circumstances, President Buhari will present the 2019 Appropriation Bill before the federal lawmakers on Wednesday, December 19, 2018.

The president has communicated this to the National Assembly in a letter read at the plenary yesterday by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara.

But the lawmakers are already spoiling for showdown with the executive over Udoma’s claim that the federal lawmakers were responsible for the delay in budget presentation by not giving the president a date to do so.

Following Udoma’s allegation, members of the House of Representatives have threatened to boycott the presentation of 2019 budget estimates by President Buhari.

In his letter addressed to Speaker Dogara, President Buhari said: “May I crave the kind indulgence of the House of Representatives to grant me the slot of 1100 hours Wednesday, December 19, 2018 to formerly present the 2019 Appropriation Bill to the Joint Session of the National Assembly.”

Some members of the House of Representatives quickly lashed out at Udoma, for pointing accusing fingers at the parliament for delay in the presentation of the budget after Wednesday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting.

Citing Order 6, rule 4 under mater of privilege, Hon. Abubakar Chika Adamu representing Shiroro, Munya and Rafi federal constituency of Niger State, said the Minister of Budget and Planning must apologise to the House of Representatives over the report that he attributed the delay in the budget presentation to the lawmakers.

According to him, “The Minister of Budget and Planning bridged my privilege and other members of the House where the media (print particularly) reported that he said the National Assembly is frustrating presentation of the budget by not giving a date for its presentation. The Minister should apologise to

the National Assembly and retract his statement.”

Also speaking on the issue, Hon. Mark Gbilah (PDP, Benue) said the minister lied on television and that his comments were not just on newspapers.

He said there was no need for investigations as the minister had lied against the honourable house.

Gbillah said he joins his

colleagues to demand a public apology on television from the minister.

The legislator said that the House should shun next week’s budget presentation by the president if the minister is not made to formally apologise to the house.

The Majority Leader, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila however informed the House that the minister said he was wrongly

quoted.

Gbajabiamiila said that the minister had called him to deny the report and that the minister said he was writing a rejoinder at the time of the call.

He urged the lawmakers to hold on a bit for the minister to make public his position before the House takes any radical decision.

Gbajabiamila said that the minister was surprised and

angry because of the report, adding that it was important to convey the information to the House In his ruling, Dogara said: “I want to plead with honourable members, in view of the fact that the minister who is at the centre of the storm was a member of this institution, to allow him and let’s see if we can have a retraction or rejoinder.

FG Not Responsible for DINNER FOR MEDIA GURUS...

Publisher of Daily Times, Mr. Fidelis Anosike; Publisher of BusinessDay, Mr. Frank Aigbogun; Chairman of THISDAY/Arise News, Prince Electricity Problems, Fashola L-R: Nduka Obaigbena; and Chairman of NOVA Merchant Bank Limited, Mr. Phillips Oduoza, during the dinner party held for Media Executives

by Chairman of NOVA Merchant Bank in Lagos...recently Tells Nigerians Chineme Okafor in Abuja The Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, has asked Nigerians not to blame the federal government for poor electricity supply in their homes.

Fashola, who argued that the country’s power sector had been privatised and largely not under the control of the federal government, acknowledged that there were problems in the sector.

He added that the problem was not that of the government if citizens in the country do not have electricity He spoke on Wednesday night at the December edition of the monthly Nextier Power Dialogue in Abuja, where stakeholders including consumers were in attendance.

“There are problems without a doubt and we must deal with them. But let me remind you; all of the assets that the ministry of power used to control for power have been sold by the last administration before I came. And so, if you don’t have power, it is not the government’s problem. Let us be honest,” Fashola said.

He then added: “The people who are operating the power sector -generation and distribution, are now privatelyowned companies. I am here because I am concerned. If your telephone is not working, it is not the minister of communication that you go to. Let us be very clear.”

“So, for those of you who want to weaponise electricity, face the businessmen who have taken it up. Let us be honest. If your bank over-charges you interest, is it the minister of finance you go to?

So, let’s be clear. This is now a private business by an Act of Parliament of 2005.”

Speaking on his role as minister, Fashola said, he was not to run the power systems but proffer policy directions, among others.

He said: “My role is regulatory oversight and policy, but I have a problem, which is the fact that I can’t see a problem and turn my back. So, I’m getting involved. So, the people you should be talking to about transformers are not me; the ministry doesn’t supply transformers anymore.”

Defending his position after a participant at the dialogue insisted he had the job of supervising the sector, he said: “I think that NERC (Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission) is the referee of the game. I am FIFA (Federation of International Football Association).

And it is not right as you said that FIFA gets involved, because whether the referee makes a mistake or not, the goal stands.”

“So, the FIFA man does not enter the field to say go and change the result, but it is an interesting analogy that I have also contemplated in my head and that is why you didn’t catch me by too much surprise. However, it is important to allow the referee to continue to decide the game because investors like to know who decides.”

Magu: I Have Only One House Akinwale Akintunde Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Ibrahim Magu, yesterday told an Ikeja High Court that contrary to the claim by the Department of State Security (DSS) that his wife has two houses in the Maitama area of Abuja, he has just one house in Kano and Abuja.

Magu disclosed this while responding to the allegation made against him by The Sun Newspaper in a publication published on March 25, 2017, titled: ‘Magu Under Fresh Probe’, which claimed two houses located in a high brow area in Maitama, Abuja were traced to his wife.

The EFCC chairman had sued publishers of The Sun Newspaper for series of publications, which he said were libelous and had damaged his character both nationally and internationally.

In the suit before Justice Doris Okwobi, Magu is claiming N5 billion in damages and also demanding that The Sun Newspapers publish an apology and also retract the libelous publications.

According to Magu, who led in evidence by EFCC counsel, Wahab Shittu, the publication was totally false, adding that even if he had the money, he wouldn’t buy houses in Maitama.

“They said the houses are located in the Darrubbe and

Missouri in Maitama and that they belong to my wife.

“My wife, Fatima Yakaka Magu, is a civil servant and cannot afford to buy houses in Maitama.

“I am an international man and the publication has damaged my reputation. The name Magu does not only end with me. The publication caused a whole lot of trauma for my lineage,” Magu said.

Under cross-examination by Charles Enwelunta, counsel to the defendant, Magu said his wife is not a party in the suit he filed against the defendant.

“Are you sure you read the story very well?” Enwelunta asked Magu.

“Yes I read it over and over again, and they did not say DSS was investigating my wife,” Magu

replied.

In the ensuing argument, Enwelunta asked: “Which arm of the government is supposed to confirm your appointment?”

Magu replied: “The Senate.”

Enwelunta: “You boasted that so far, you have been able to secure 200 convictions.”

Magu: “Yes” Enwelunta: “How many times were you presented to the Senate for confirmation?”

Magu: “Twice” Enwelunta: “Can you tell this court why you were rejected?”

Magu: “They are in a better position to tell you why they rejected me. I have been there for three years and Nigerians are watching.”

Buhari Appoints Hassan as New Minister of Environment

Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of a Surveyor, Suleiman Hassan, as the Minister of Environment.

Until his appointment on December 13, 2018, Hassan was the Minister of State in the Federal Ministry of Power Works and Housing.

According to a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to President Buhari on Media

and Publicity, Mr. Garba Shehu, Hassan’s appoint as the Minister of Environment followed the resignation of the Minister of State, Ibrahim Usman Jibril, in the ministry to ascend the throne of his forefathers as the Emir of Nasarawa.

The president announced the succession at the Ministry of Environment at the end of the meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) last

Wednesday.

Hassan has held several positions in his state, Gombe.

He was the Chief Technical Officer (Surveys), Ministry of Works and Transport, Bauchi; Chief Surveyor, Governor’s Office, Department of Land and Surveys, Gombe; and the Registrar Surveyors Council of Nigeria (SURCON).

He is a member of Surveyors Council of Nigeria; Surveyors Investigation Panel; and

member of Council of Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS).

Hassan held political party positions such the chairman of the Congress for Progressive Change, Gombe State chapter.

His predecessor, Jubril, resigned from the federal cabinet and a valedictory session was held in his honour at the FEC meeting presided over by President Buhari at the council chamber in Abuja.

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PDP, CUPP: INEC Plotting to Create Illegal Polling Centres in Chad, Niger No diaspora voting in 2019, electoral umpire assures Adedayo Akinwale and Udora Orizu in Abuja The Peoples Democratic Party’s Presidential Campaign Organisation (PPCO), has condemned the alleged plot by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Muhammadu Buhari Presidency to rig the 2019 general elections by creating illegal polling centres in Chad and Niger Republic.

The condemnation by the PPCO is coming as the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has raised the alarm over an alleged move by the electoral body and the Presidency to pad up five million fake votes for Buhari by opening of polling centres in the two countries.

The Chairman of the commission, Prof. Mahmud Yakubu, was reported to have stated on Wednesday that a special provision had been made for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Chad and Niger that would allow them to take part in the 2019 elections.

But in a swift reaction, INEC described the reported statement credited to its chairman as false, saying there will be no diaspora or out-ofcountry voting for any Nigerian, and that only duly registered IDPs within Nigeria would be allowed to vote.

The PDP campaign organisation in a statement yesterday by its Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, described the alleged plot by INEC and President Buhari to secretly create polling centres outside the shores of the country, in total violation of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), as inexcusably criminal, and also exposes part of the plot to corrupt the country’s electoral system and massively rig for Buhari.

“Buhari, INEC and all Nigerians know that there are no provisions for Diaspora voting under our system.

By the extant laws guiding elections in Nigeria, it is very clear who is

eligible to vote, as well as the centres statutorily designated for elections.

There is no provision for any special arrangement centres” “It is therefore reprehensible that President Buhari, in his desperation to rig the elections, is now trying to hide under the guise of making special provision for IDPs outside the country, to illegally create rigging centres outside our country and import contrived figures into the election results.

“This clandestine arrangement further validates the alarm earlier raised by the PDP, in April this year, of INEC’s plot to secretly create 30,000 illegal polling centres in some remote areas, through which they plan to allocate millions of votes to President Buhari and the APC.” The PDP therefore cautioned the Buhari’s Presidency and INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, not to set the country on fire by engaging in provocative actions in a desperation to rig the 2019 Presidential election for President Buhari. t*/&$ 1MPUUJOH UP "EE 'JWF .JMMJPO 'BLF 7PUFT $611 *OTJTUT Despite INEC’s clarifications, CUPP has also raised the alarm over an alleged move by the electoral body and Presidency to pad up five million fake votes for Buhari by opening of polling centres in Chad and Niger Republic.

In a statement issued by its National spokesperson, Ikenga Ugochinyere, CUPP, an umbrella body of over 45 political parties, stated that its Intelligence unit had since uncovered the massive mobilisation of Chadian, Nigerian and Sudanese citizens preparatory to vote in the presidential elections billed for February 16.

The statement added that the

$"/ %FOJFT &OEPSTJOH #VIBSJ GPS 4FDPOE 5FSN OnyebuchiEzigboinAbuja The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has denied endorsing President Muhammadu Buhari’s re-election bid.

In a statement issued by the Special Assistant in charge of Media and Communications to the CAN President, Pastor Adebayo Oladeji, the Christian body described as fake, the report that President Buhari has been chosen after CAN had met with some 14 presidential candidates in Abuja.

The statement noted that the CAN President, Rev. SamsonAyokunle did not say that any of the candidates had been endorsed when he spoke to journalists after the meeting with the presidential flagbearers.

His words: “The motive is not to take for granted the 2019 elections.

2019 Nigeria will depend on next year’s presidential election. That is, how free and fair it is going to be.

“The church cannot take the back seat in this situation because it can only prosper when Nigeria prospers.

If the election is not free and fair, then, all Nigerians, including the church, will be in trouble,” he said.

CAN said it decided to reach out to the presidential candidates to ask them their credentials for aspiring to

the highest office in the land and to interrogate their plans for all, including the church.

It also said the aim of bringing them together was to speak to their conscience so that they don’t set the country on fire.

On the outcome of the parley, Ayokunle said the CAN is going to draw conclusion when it finalises the interviews.

CAN also reacted to President Buhari’s decline of assent to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill.

Ayokunle advised that the executive and the legislature should join hands, whenever there is this kind of disagreement or a stalemate, as partners in progress to mutually find a way forward.

It said no one can afford to play with the future of the country through the forthcoming 2019 general elections, adding that everything must be done to ensure that the polls are free and fair.

“So, where did His Eminence inform these liars and mischief makers that CAN has endorsed President Buhari for a second term? We appeal to members of the public to beware of those who are fabricating this fake news for whatever reasons,” the statement added.

plot is targeted at generating nothing less than five million votes for President Buhari in the election.

“It has now become clearer to Nigerians and the entire world the reasons why President Buhari refused to assent to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill presented to him by the National Assembly, which would have made the Card Reader the only means of accreditation of voters for the election. His only options now include allowing

non-Nigerians to participate in an election to determine Nigeria’s President and without accreditation,”Ugochinyere said.

He urged the INEC Chairman to retrace his steps and stand with the Nigerian people in these trying times as the electoral laws prohibit diaspora voting.

He warned that if any electoral staff or materials have been deployed outside the country for the purpose of these illegal and unlawful voting points, they should be

returned to the country without any further delay.

He added that this plot is capable of igniting a conflagration, the magnitude of which the President and his outgoing party cannot contain. t/P %JBTQPSB 7PUJOH JO */&$ "TTVSFT Meanwhile, INEC’s National Commissioner, and Chairman Voter Education and Publicity, Mr. Festus Okoye, has clarified that there will be no diaspora or out-of-country

voting for any Nigerian, adding that only duly registered IDPs within Nigeria would be allowed to vote.

“The Commission wishes to state unequivocally that there will be no Diaspora or out-of-country voting for any Nigerian. In accordance with extant provisions of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), only duly registered Internally Displaced Persons (lDPs) within Nigeria will be allowed to vote.”

STRATEGISING FOR 2019...

R –L: President Muhammadu Buhari ; Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State; Governor Al-Makura Tanko of Nasarawa State; Popular Nigeria artist, Mr. Chinedu Ikedieze, Popularly known as Aki; and onother artist/member Lagos State House of Assembly, Desmond Elliot, during an event organised by the Buhari Support Organisation at the conference Centre of the Presidential Villa, Abuja....recently GODWIN OMOIGUI.

0OOPHIFO 0SEFST "QQPJOUNFOU PG .PSF +VEHFT JOUP &MFDUJPO 1FUJUJPO 5SJCVOBM 1BOFMT Alex Enumah inAbuja The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen, has directed that more judges and Justices be appointed to panels of the Election Petition Tribunals and Election Appeal Tribunals to ensure speedy disposal of electoral matters.

Onnoghen was also of the opinion that with the increased capacity, the work of judicial officers handling election petitions would be done in a more efficient, effective and judicious manner.

He was speaking yesterday while declaring open this year’s

annual conference of Justices of the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

Justice Onnoghen, who was represented at the occasion by a Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Mary Peter-Odili, said the 2019 general election presents several challenges for all concerned, including the judiciary.

The CJN then urged the Justices to be on guard so as not to fall prey to the ambitions of politicians who do not care about what may befall the hapless judicial officer if found wanting in any way because of his association with politicians.

He also warned the participants against unnecessary association with lawyers who may be acting as conduits for politicians, no matter how innocent they may be portrayed, and assured them that the National Judicial Council (NJC) would wield the big stick of sanctions to any judicial officer found wanting in the discharge of his duties.

According to him, “We cannot be threatened by other arms of government in the performance of our duties. Unlike other arms of government, your Lordships do not have a superior, whose

approval is needed for you to render Justice.”

He then urged the Justices to safeguard the independence the judiciary and avoid any act that would invite the incursion of the executive into the affairs of the judiciary.

In her speech, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa said the conference with the theme: ‘The new frontiers for judiciary in democracy’, “provides the opportunity to take stock of the accomplishment of the court and to also look forward to other areas for improvement.

)PVTF $PNNJUUFF 4VNNPOT //1$ 'JOBODF .JOJTUFS PWFS "MMFHFE 6OCVEHFUFE 4VCTJEZ 1BZNFOUT Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja The Minister of Finance, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed, and the Minster of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, have been summoned to appear before a House of Representatives joint committee next Thursday to explain their roles in an alleged unbudgeted funds being paid as fuel subsidy.

Also summoned to appear unfailingly on the same date are the Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Maikanti Kachalla Baru, and the heads of the

Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) and the Petroleum Equalisation Fund (PEF).

The joint committee was a combination of the Committees on Finance and Petroleum (downstream) chaired by Babangida Ibrahim (Katsina, APC) and Joseph Akinlaja (Ondo, PDP) respectively.

The resolution of the committee to summon the stakeholders was due to the failure of the government officials to appear before it at yesterday’s sitting despite several invitations extended to them.

The committee is acting by the mandate of the House to investigate allegations of subsidy payments despite claims by government that it is no longer paying petroleum subsidy.

There were allegations that billions of naira is still being paid as subsidy with proper budgetary approvals.

Hon. Ibrahim said there are documented evidence that the landing cost of petroleum products is far above the government approved N145 a liter, saying the task before the committee is to know who is paying for the

differential. ”The mandate given to this joint committee on finance and petroleum (downstream) by the House is to invite the minister of state for petroleum and finance minister; the GMD of NNPC as well as ES of PPPRA, and urge the executive arm to make provision for subsidy payment in the 2019 budget.

“Unfortunately, the heads of the relevant MDAs are not here, and they are very central to our mandate. So what do we do now as a committee for us to carry out our assignment?” he asked.

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Nigeria, AFREXIM Sign $1bn Loan Facility for Export Promotion Programme Digital economy to hit $88bn by 2021, says Osinbajo Jonathan Eze in Cairo, Egypt The ongoing intra African trade fair in Cairo, Egypt, has produced a deal that would boost the non-oil sector as the federal government and the African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIM) signed a $1 billion facility export promotion programme with a total targeted inflow of $25 billion in the next few years.

This is just as the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, has predicted that with the phenomenal growth and depth of technology and innovation and with hundreds of new companies jostling for primacy in the fast growing digital economy space, the digital economy in Nigeria would be worth $88 billion and create about three million jobs by 2021.

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which was witnessed by Osinbajo and the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, excited the Vice President who said: “ I think we will arrive at a very successful establishment of the African common market, because I think it is good for African trade”.

Osinbajo stated that “the interstate trade in Africa is 10 per cent while 90 per cent is done with

countries outside Africa. There is no reason why we should not increase the inter-state trade on this continent. This is why this first intra African trade fair is an extra special event. It is the beginning of the coming to pass of one of Africa’s favorite dreams, increasing intra African trade, trade between and among ourselves in pragmatic and sustainable ways”.

He asserted that for the continent to progress economically, “and for us to live our dreams and the hopes and aspirations of our founding fathers, we must commend and thank the African Union, and Afrexim Bank for organising, and the Government and people of Egypt for hosting this trade fair and the excellent facilities that have been placed at our disposal”.

“Therefore, it is with great pride that we celebrate the dreams of Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa and all of the fathers of our continent as we take part in the first ever intra-African Trade fair.

He further said Nigeria places a high premium on the economic integration of the continent and recognises trade as a veritable tool “towards the Africa we all want’; an industrialised, prosperous and peaceful Africa where we generate enough opportunities

to accommodate the growing numbers of our peoples.

He said “the numbers entering the job market yearly in Africa is daunting and it is clear that increased Intra-Africa trade is one of the surest ways of creating the jobs that are so desperately needed. Therefore, this intra-African trade fair, bringing together the business communities,

including, innovators and creators both in the merchandise and services industry from the 55 African Union Members and beyond is a remarkable achievement in and of itself..

“In order to increase trade, we in Nigeria tasked ourselves to diversify our export basket. This became one of our many policy

priorities. Based on this focus we modified and updated existing economic policies and also developed robust policies to facilitate the diversification of our economy.

“Today, we have come to the intra-Africa trade fair with a delegation of policy makers and services market operators who have an array of goods

and services that are as rich and diverse as the people of our great country.

The Vice president noted that “in the 2nd quarter report of Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics, services contributed approximately 54 per cent to the GDP with Information and Communication as the main drivers of growth.

Ekweremadu, Lawan Disagree over Numbers of APC, PDP Senators The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, yesterday disagreed with the Majority Leader, Senator Ahmed Lawan, over the composition of the membership of the upper legislative chamber.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the disagreement played out on the floor of the Senate during plenary presided over by Ekweremadu.

Raising a point of order, Lawan (All Progressive CongressYobe) had claimed that there were 56 APC senators as against People Democratic Party’s 46 in the upper chamber.

But Ekweremadu (PDP-

Enugu) countered him, saying there was no record to back his claim.

Lawan’s point of order was in reaction to two reports on pages 5 and 7 of Daily Trust newspaper of last Wednesday which he dismissed as erroneous.

He said, “On page 5 of Daily Trust of Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2018, it is reported that the APC senators are 57 and PDP senators, 58.

“For the record, Mr President, APC senators are 56 and PDP senators are 46.

“On page 7, the Daily Trust reported that when a question was put for the

confirmation of Festus Keyamo for National Deposit Insurance Commission governing board, the nays had it, but that you said the ayes had it.

“For the record, the first time you put the question, there was no clear winner, so you put the question again, and Mr President, your judgment was right because the ayes had it.

“I needed to put the record straight so that nobody in the future is misguided on what happened in the Senate,” he said.

Lawan was referring to the confirmation of Keyamo and five others as members of the Board of the NDIC by the Senate

on Wednesday.

The majority leader had proceeded to present the first item on the Order Paper when Ekweremadu interrupted him to respond to the issues he raised.

Ekweremadu said the newspaper report on Keyamo’s confirmation votes should not be an issue since they were in compliance with the Senate Rules, and no senator complained about it.

“Then on the issue of the number, I don’t think there is any particular statistics in respect of how many APC or PDP members are in the Senate,” he said.

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People’s Will Must Prevail in 2019, Buhari Insists IG seeks collaboration with other security agencies President Muhammadu Buhari has said that the will of Nigerians must prevail in 2019 to drive the democratic architecture of the country.

Also, the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Idris has called for collaboration among sister security agencies in the country during the upcoming 2019 general elections.

President Buhari, who spoke in Abuja yesterday at the opening of a two-day Election Security Management of the National Security Adviser, promised to ensure that security agencies involved in the conduct of the 2019 general elections perform their duties professionally to enable the electorate exercise their franchise.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha, the president said the success of the forthcoming elections would partly depend on the professionalism demonstrated by security agencies.

Buhari added that positive changes had been implemented in the nation’s electoral laws to strengthen electoral processes.

He explained that the changes were to ensure that voters were not disenfranchised by actions or inactions of actors or institutions charged with the responsibility

of driving the process.

He said, “As President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I am committed to upholding the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as this is a sacred pathway toward our democracy.”

The president noted that “this had been demonstrated in the successes that INEC recorded in Ekiti, Anambra, Ondo and Edo governorship elections, as well as by-elections in some other states.

“Therefore, the sanctity of the process must be upheld by all political parties and other stakeholders across political party divide if the country is to attain its full potential.’’

He recalled his acceptance speech in April 2015 where he affirmed commitment to promote credible elections devoid of interference in the work of INEC. Buhari said that those assertions were informed by the conviction that no nation could advance its democratic culture under a security orientation that had no assurance for the safety of the electorate and their votes.

The president therefore reassured the international community that Nigeria would continue to advance its democratic credentials within

the global space.

He added that “indeed, Nigeria’s commitment to democratic values underscores the leadership roles the country demonstrated in the enhancement of the democratic processes in Mali, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Niger, The Gambia and Guinea Bissau.”

He reiterated confidence in INEC’s competence to conduct credible elections in 2019.

Speaking the event, the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Idris, said the 2019 general elections will require the collaboration of all sister security agencies.

He said: “It is when we work

together by sharing intelligence and manpower that we can better deliver credible elections.”

He said the greatest challenge of the police and other security agencies in providing security during elections was the conduct of politicians.

The police boss advised politicians to imbibe and internalise the culture of non-violent politics.

“They should avoid conducts which may precipitate violence before, during and after elections.

“I enjoin politicians to make their campaigns issue-based rather than attacking other candidates.”

Idris warned that politicians engaged in electoral malpractice

would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

He said that the force would not be deterred in ensuring credible elections in the country as it was constantly training and building capacity of officers on election duties.

Idris assured that all strategic operational plans for credible elections in 2019 have been concluded.

He added that it was the responsibility of the force as the foremost internal security agency to provide security for elections at national, states and local levels.

Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu, Chairman, Independent National

Electoral Commission (INEC), said the commission was planning to engage security agencies on capacity building.

He said that the 2019 elections would be inclusive as all eligible Nigerians, including Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) within the country, would be given the chance to vote in the elections.

The chairman said that the commission was committed to conducting credible, free and fair elections in 2019.

Attendance at the workshop include: NSCDC, Nigeria Immigration Service, FRSC, Federal Fire Service, Police, Army, Air Force, Navy and Nigeria Prison Service.

FG Has Politicised Security, Says Wike Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has declared that the federal government has politicised security to the disadvantage of national development.

He said that the federal government and her agencies de-market certain opposition states for cheap political points.

Speaking yesterday during an interview with an international television station, he said: “There is no insecurity here in Rivers State. People only de-market the

state for political reasons. There is no insecurity when it comes to drilling oil for the economic wellbeing of the entire country.

But they claim insecurity when it comes to political gains,” he said.

The governor regretted that the Neighbourhood Safety Corps Agency initiated by the state government, had their training base attacked by soldiers.

He said the state was one of the most secure locations in the country which has been

transformed into the destination of choice for conferences and events.

He said: “Rivers State is an investment destination because we have created the right environment through the provision of critical infrastructure,” he said.

Wike said his administration was developing the tourism potential of the state to boost her economy.

He noted that the hosting of NAFEST was targeted

at showcasing the cultural potentials.

He maintained that the state would build a museum to promote the culture of the people.

On Seki, Wike said his administration would partner with the producers to further promote the Rivers culture, adding that he was impressed with the concept of Seki, as it makes the people remember their culture, dances and heritage.

GOVERNMENT OF RIVERS STATE

GOVERNMENT OF RIVERS STATE

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

EXTENSION OF DATE FOR SUBMISSION OF MEMORANDA

EXTENSION OF DATE FOR SUBMISSION OF MEMORANDA

T

he Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the immediate and remote causes of the collapse of a Seven (7) Storey building under construction at No. 119 Woji road (plot 80) GRA, Phase II, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has extended the date for submission of memoranda from Friday, 14th December to Wednesday, 19th of December, 2018.

The general public and interested persons are, once again, requested to submit ten (10) hard copies (printed) and one (1) soft copy (on CD or Flash Drives) of written memoranda, typed, double-spaced and addressed to the Secretary of the Commission, at the Commission's Secretariat in the Chief Judge's Ceremonial Court Complex, Rivers State Judiciary, Port Harcourt.

T

he Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate Management of the Integrated Medical Industries Limited (Auto Disable Syringe Factory), has extended the date for submission of memoranda from Friday, 14th December to Wednesday, 19th of December, 2018.

The general public and interested persons are, once again, requested to submit ten (10) hard copies (printed) and one (1) soft copy (on CD or Flash Drives) of written memoranda, typed, double-spaced and addressed to the Secretary of the Commission, at the Commission's Secretariat in the Chief Judge's Ceremonial Court Complex, Rivers State Judiciary, Port Harcourt.

Signed:

Signed: BARR. EGERTON NDU MADUME Secretary For: The Commission

SIR CHIDI ADIELE Secretary For: The Commission

FRIDAY DECEMBER 14, 2018 ˾ T H I S D AY

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Again, Governors Resolve to Meet Buhari over N30,000 Minimum Wage Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Governors of the 36 states of the federation yesterday met to consider the lingering conflict over the N30,000 new minimum wage demand by the organised labour movement.

At the end of the meeting, the governors failed to make any head-way on the minimum wage debacle, hence their decision to go back to President Muhammadu Buhari to see if the matter can be resolved.

Addressing journalists, the Head, Media and Public Affairs,

Abdulrazaque Bello-Barkindo, said the governors have resolved to meet with President Buhari today (Friday) to iron out issues relating to the stalemated issue of new minimum wage.

Bello-Barkindo said: “It was a very short meeting, of course the very last one for the year. The meeting welcomed the newest governor in its midst, the Osun State Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola.

“The meeting resolved to meet the president on the issue of the minimum wage which hopefully will be resolved before the end of

the year. The governors are also meeting the president tomorrow (today) to thank him for the way he has handle the economy.”

The meeting of governors was a prelude to today’s National Economic Council meeting which is expected among other issues to focus on how to resolve the minimum wage crisis and to avert the looming national strike by workers.

Although yesterday’s meeting of the governors was held behind closed door, THISDAY gathered that the few governors who attended it could not

possibly take any new position on the new minimum wage.

About 12 governors attended the meeting that lasted for an hour.

The report of the tripartite negotiation committee set up by the federal government to help midwife a new minimum wage had recommended N30,000, but the state governors rejected and instead proposed N22,500 as what the states can pay.

The governors which came under the umbrella of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum expressed their handicap in

meeting up with the expected increase in wage bill arising from the new minimum wage figure.

The governors also threatened to consider retrenchment of workers if the states are forced to accept the N30,000 as approved minimum wage.

However the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and organised labour has also vowed not to shift ground on matter.

The labour movement said workers would not succumb to any threat in their struggle to earn a decent wage.

The organised labour movement challenged governors in their various states to tell their workers why they could pay the minimum wage, adding that any who does that risks being voted out of office.

“To the oppressors, we have only one answer for you. We will never sleep on our rights. We hereby reiterate our directive to Nigerian workers to vote out any politician or political party that refuses to pay the new national minimum wage of N30, 000,” Labour said.

FG, Financiers to Resume Negotiations on Repair of Refineries Chineme Okaforand Amaka Mozie inAbuja The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, has disclosed that he would lead teams from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and potential financiers of the planned repair of the NNPC’s refineries in Warri, Kaduna and Port Harcourt, to a resumed negotiation over outstanding terms in the deal.

Kachikwu, who stated that the repair works on the refineries would cost more than $2 billion, explained at a meeting in Abuja where he showcased the achievements of his ministry in the last three years, that the negotiations had taken longer than expected, adding that he was stepping in to see that NNPC and the financiers reach a compromise quickly.

He also warned that if the NNPC failed to get its refineries working before the 600,000 barrels per day (bpd) production capacity Dangote Refinery in Lagos comes on stream, then theirs would most likely see its financial values significantly decline.

Kachikwu equally stated that the tradition of stockpiling petroleum products and expecting it would end scarcity of petrol especially in the country was uneconomical and not sustainable.

He added that repairing the refineries and getting more investments in refinery operations to enable Nigeria produce the fuel she needs is the best option.

“In the midstream and downstream sectors, we have struggled. I would love to see a day when there will be no fuel scarcity in this country, but for that to happen, there are certain realities.

Whether we want it (or not), we

accept the facts, and the realities are there. The liberalisation of the sector is going to be a panacea to this.

“As long as we continue to subsidise products - very market unfriendly tactics, we are going to continue to struggle. We need to find a way to meet the needs, to provide products sufficiently for the populace and at the same time free the sector to grow,” said Kachikwu.

He noted: “Investments are lacking in this sector. We have been working on rebuilding the four refineries owned by the NNPC. We got an approval by the president in 2016. NNPC has struggled in terms of being able to find the financiers. Financiers have finally been found but now to find the terms have been taking long.

“We are actually having a meeting tomorrow and I am hoping that by the end of this year or first quarter next year, we would have completed the commercial aspect of this financial undertaking which is probably in excess of $2 billion, and finally be able to allow the private sector collaborate with the NNPC to repair this refineries and bring back 450,000 barrels capacity refineries into shape.”

He explained that this was the solutions to solving the fuel scarcity, adding that: “We are not going to trade our way out of this crisis by bringing sufficiency, by expanding reserves, by loading up at extravagant costs which cost the federation a lot of money, that is not the solution, the solution is getting the refineries to work and that is why we work very hard with Dangote Refinery as if they are government refinery.”

FG Holds Extended NEC Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja As part the efforts to drive President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) for inclusive growth and human capital development nationwide, an extended session of the National Economic Council (NEC), chaired

by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo will hold today.

A media advisory from the office of the Vice President stated that the extended NEC, comprising governors of all the states of the

federation, and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), will focus on the human capital development programme of Buhari’s administration hinged on “investment in our people.”

According to the advisory, the human capital development programme is hinged on three main thematic areas - health and nutrition, education and labour force participation, while the programme has identified seven outcome areas and a considerable number of interventions designed to drive change nationwide.

SIGNED AND SEALED...

L-R: Executive Director, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Olusegun Awolowo; President, African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIMBANK), Professor Benedict Oramah; and Managing Director, Nigeria Export-Import Bank, Mr. Abubakar Bello, exchanging signed MoU on $1bn facility during Intra-African Trade Fair in Cairo, Egypt...recently

Metele Attacks: Army Denies Secret Burial of 100 Soldiers Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja The Nigerian Army has denied conducting a secret burial of the remains of over 100 soldiers allegedly killed during the Metele attacks in Borno State.

The army has also clarified that the salary accounts of soldiers of 157 Task Force Battalion, Metele, which came under heavy attacks last month when insurgents overran the military base, were not frozen by military authorities as alleged.

The military had claimed that

only 39 soldiers were killed during the attacks.

The secret burial, it was alleged, was taking place in the Maimalari Military Cantonment Cemetery, Maiduguri, Borno State.

A military source told THISDAY that the accounts of soldiers attached to the battalion were frozen after the attacks.

“After the attack, the accounts of all the soldiers killed and the ones that survived were frozen. Our allowances and salary have not been paid since the attack because all the accounts were frozen,

including the late soldiers and the ones that survived.

“As I am talking to you, I get my feeding money from my family back in the village,” he said.

“Since our commander was killed, we are now like orphans.

Though we are told that a new commander will resume on Thursday, we are yet to see any signs,” he lamented.

On the burial of the fallen soldiers, the soldier, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said survivors of the Metele attacks, were told to be at the Maimalari

Military Cantonment Cemetry on Friday for the burial.

“As I am speaking to you, we are on our way to Maiduguri for the burial of our departed colleagues,” he said.

But the Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier-General Sani Usman, yesterday denied that any such burial was taking place.

In response to a text message sent to him by our correspondent, he said it was “not true”.

Responding to the alleged freezing of accounts of soldiers, he said it was “another lie”.

Mining: FG Declares Take-off of First Gold Refinery Kasim Sumaina in Abuja The federal government has officially declared the take- off of the first ever gold refinery in Nigeria.

According to the government, a well-organised gold value chain can trigger an economic revolution like it did in India, South Africa, and Switzerland, among others.

The Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Alhaji Abubakar Bawa Bwari, who spoke yesterday during the ground-breaking ceremony of the project in Mowe, Ogun State, said it was an epoch-making event and thanked the government and

people of Ogun State for their warmth and hospitality.”

The minister, in a statement by his media aide, Ishaku Kigbu said: “We are here to make history as we come to witness the groundbreaking ceremony of the first ever gold refinery in Nigeria. I want to use this opportunity to congratulate the management of Kian Smith Company Limited, for this laudable achievement.”

The present administration, the minister said, was determined to develop the mining sector to act as a catalyst for the sustainable economic growth of the country.

He added that “as part of our marching orders in the ministry,

we are expected to develop the sector to increase its contribution to the country’s GDP, improve its capacity to create jobs and engender sustainable mining.”

Bwari added: “And, in fulfillment of that mandate, we developed a roadmap for the growth and development of the sector, and identified seven strategic minerals for priority attention, with gold as the commodity that will get utmost priority.”

According to him, the ministry proposed a Gold Purchase Scheme with the primary purpose of developing the gold value chain through well articulated supply

chain strategies, thereby leading to the production of gold products through value addition.

“The implication is that gold supply will be sourced from registered artisanal miners to allow for effective monitoring and regulation of artisanal gold production and ensure that correct gold production data are available.”

“I must admit my admiration for the company’s swift response to this opportunity and today we are here to officially mark the commencement of construction activities for the gold refinery plant.”

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Nigeria Surpasses Broadband Penetration Target by 0.9% Emma Okonji The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), yesterday disclosed that broadband penetration in the country

has reached 30.9 per cent, thus surpassing the 30 per cent broadband penetration target by a margin of 0.9 per cent.

Quoting the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), NCC

Ondo Appoints 18 LG Caretaker Committee Chairmen James Sowole in Akure Sequel to the inability of the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) to conduct the local government election scheduled for December 1, 2018, the state Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has approved the appointment of Interim Management Committee Chairmen for the 18 local government areas of the state.

The action of the governor was disclosed in a statement signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Segun Ajiboye.

Ajiboye said the governor’s approval followed the ratification of the list by the state House of Assembly yesterday.

The new appointees are Rafiu Eniayewu for the Akoko North East Local Government Area; Yomi Babatunde (Akoko South East); Ayodele Akande Akoko North West); Augustine Oloruntogbe Olatunji (Akoko South West); Adebayo Benjamin (Owo) and

Agboola Ajike (Ose).

Also appointed are Gbenga Michael (Akure South); Gabriel Ogbesetore (Akure North); Alex Oladimeji (Ifedore); Biyi Ayanuola (Idanre); Akinkuote Olawale (Ondo East) and Ebenezer Akinsulire (Ondo West).

Others appointed are Ikumawoyi Babatunde (Odigbo); Akinsuroju Michael (Ileoluji/ Okeigbo); Ojo Omolewa (Ese Odo); Otito Atikase (Ilaje); Morenikeji Alaska (Okitipipa) and Gbadebo Odinmayo (Irele).

The governor had few months ago dissolved the former caretaker chairmen in preparation for the aborted December 1 local government election which was postponed indefinitely.

The process for the local government election witnessed many controversies, including factions’ crisis among political parties’ leaders particularly the All Progressives Congress (APC).

informed that contributions of telecommunications and information services to GDP from the first quarter (Q1) to Q3 2018 was N4.7 trillion.

It however, put the Q3, 2018 GDP contribution at N1.5 trillion.

NCC said the telecommunications and Information services sector grew by 14.7 per cent from Q1, 2017 - Q3, 2018.

Nigeria had through her fiveyear National Broadband Plan (2013-2018), which was released

in 2013, targeted 30 per cent broadband penetration by December 31, 2018, but as at 2017, the country was able to attain 21 per cent penetration.

As at 2013, when the National Broadband Plan was released, the broadband penetration was at six per cent, but the NCC, through its Executive Vice Chairman, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, came up with eightpoint agenda, which focused more on achieving deeper broadband penetration in the country.

NCC, which disclosed the new broadband figure in a document titled Key Statistics in the Telecom Industry as at November, said active voice subscriber base grew from 165,239,443 in October 2018 to 169,104,830 in November 2018.

NCC also put internet subscription at 108.8 million, up from 107.5 million within the months under review.

Danbatta had earlier said one of the challenges that confronted the successful

implementation of the National Broadband Plan (NBP) was the inability of other government agencies to drive the plan.

He however, used the opportunity to call on other agencies like the National Information Technology Development Agencies; Galaxy Backbone, among others to drive the initiative.

The commission revealed that total active broadband subscription on 3G and 4G platforms as November was 58,965,478.

FG: N170bn Revenue Lost Annually to Imported, Smuggled Textiles James Emejo in Abuja The Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Aisha Abubakar, has put the cumulative value of textiles and garments imported or smuggled into the country at $4.2 billion, while $325 million (over N170 billion) is lost in annual revenues to the government.

Speaking yesterday at a high - level stakeholders’ policy validation retreat on the cotton, textiles and garments, she said the Cotton, Textiles and Garments (CTG) sector remained one of the key sectors currently prioritised

in the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) as well as the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) due to its strategic importance to employment generation, wealth creation and industrial development.

The minister noted that the meeting had become necessary in order to build consensus and understanding on a clear revitalisation roadmap for the sustainable growth and development of the CTG sector across the value chain.

She said her ministry had in January 2015, published the approved National Cotton,

Textile, Garment’s Policy, which was aimed at improving the sustainable increase in production, investment and competitiveness of the sector to create jobs and wealth for Nigerians.

Abubakar, however, lamented that the outcome from the policy intervention was yet to materialise due to some constraints, including insufficient cotton seeds for production, high cost of operations, smuggling and counterfeiting, high influx of cheap textile and garments products into the country, lack of enabling infrastructure as well as lack of quality and standard.

“The issues highlighted above

have affected the industry growth and necessitated the need for holistic review of the CTG policy to align with current realities with a view to boost production in order to increase investment in the textile and garment industry.”

She added that the revitalisation of the sector had the potential to create more job opportunities across the value chain particularly for farmers and textile manufacturers; reduce smuggling of textile products as well as lead to increased revenue- and stimulating foreign direct investment (FDI) in the CTG industry.

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Senate Passes Ajaokuta Steel Completion Fund Bill To be funded with $1bn from FG’s excess crude revenue Deji Elumoye in Abuja The Senate yesterday passed the Ajaokuta Steel Company Completion Fund Bill which will allow for the total completion of the 38-year-old steel firm.

This was sequel to the adoption of the Ajaokuta Steel Company Completion Fund Bill 2018 presented by the Senate Leader, Senator Ahmad Lawan.

The bill, which is slated for concurrence in Article 2 made provision for the sum of $1 billion from the federal government share of excess crude revenue be devoted to the immediate completion of the steel company.

The bill also stated that all monies that may be appropriated and authorised by any tier of government should be part of

the funding for the completion of the company.

It further provided that all loans or grants made to the country for the purpose of completing the Ajaokuta Steel Company should be accommodated.

The proposed legislation stated that the monies in the Fund shall be applied by the minister subject to appropriation by the National Assembly only for the purpose of the construction, improvement, extension, enlargement and replacement of infrastructure and works, including the provision, acquisition, improvement and replacement of other capital assets required in respect of or in connection with the completion of the Ajaokuta Steel Company project.

The loans, according to the bill, can be used for the acquisition of land and of any right or interest in or over land and in respect of the use of any invention, including carrying on of any survey, research or investigation preparatory to the

undertaking of any such purpose or the formation of any plan or scheme for the development, improvement, of Ajaokuta Steel Company project.

Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, who presided over the bill, said if the bill is

signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari, it would go a long way to ensure the quick completion of the steel mill.

Also yesterday, the Senate also passed the Presidential Programme on Rehabilitation

and Reintegration (establishment and implementation) Bill 2018.

The bill provides legal instrument to implement the Presidential Amnesty programme in the area of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration.

NNPC: Nigeria Owes IOCs $5.1bn Deji Elumoye in Abuja The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has put Nigeria’s indebtedness to international oil companies through the Joint Venture Cash call (JVC) at $5.1billion.

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of NNPC, Mr. Isiaka Abdulrasaq, who made this disclosure yesterday while appearing before the Senate Committee on Gas, declared that Nigeria is presently owing International Oil Companies $5.1billion in the JVC call.

Abdulrasaq in his explanation told the committee that the Joint Venture Cash Call is business arrangement between the Nigerian government and International Oil Companies (IOC).

According to him, while Nigeria controls 60 percent of the business venture, the IOCs control 40 percent.

He further explained that “the problem however is that before this government came on board in 2015, Nigeria which holds 60 percent of shares in the joint business for many years did not contribute its own required capital into it but only collected its equity in form of revenues which made the country to have $6.8billion in 2015 unpaid capital into the venture .

“But the present government in 2016 succeeded in getting

35 percent discount from the unpaid capital amounting to $1.9billion from the unpaid capital, making the country to be owing the IOCs $5.1billion now.”

Commenting on the $3.2billion allegedly withdrawn by NNPC from its Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) dividend account since 2015, the CFO said there was no mismanagement in any of the withdrawals made.

According to him, from available records with the corporation, only 13 withdrawals totaling $1.2 billion were made from the account .

He lamented that not less than seven out of the international oil companies dealing with NNPC have been apprehensive on continuing their business operations as a result of bogus figures being bandied about withdrawals from the NLNG dividend account.

Commenting, the Committee Chairman, Senator Albert Akpan ( Akwa Ibom North East), directed the NNPC CFO to submit approving documents for all the withdrawals to the committee by next Tuesday.

“We are not saying any money has been stolen. What we are doing is clarifying processes of expenditures made from the account with a view to making management of the account more transparent and beneficial to Nigerians,” he further said.

SBGS Old Students Holds AGM December 15 The old students association of St. Bernardine’s Grammar School (SBGS), Oyo will hold its annual general meeting on December 15 at SDM Tavern, opposite UCH (2nd gate), Total Garden, Ibadan at 10p.m.

According to the president of the association, Professor Dare Adeyemi, members are expected from across the globe, among who is former governorship candidate in Oyo State, Alhaji Abiodun Salami.

Top on the agenda to be

discussed is how to bring development to their alma Mata and help members that are in need of financial support.

In a release by the assistant secretary of the association, Elizabeth Emakhu, everything has been put in place to make the meeting a huge success.

SBGS was founded in 1956 and has produced many prominent men and women occupying responsible positions within and outside the country.

ECONOMY ON THEIR MINDS...

Director General -designate, Nigerian Employers Consultative Association (NECA), Timothy Olawale(left), and President, Dr. Mohammed Yinusa, during the association’s press conference on the State of Economy in Lagos… yesterday YOMI AKINYELE

Court Restrains Kogi Gov from Removing Chief Judge Yekini Jimoh in Lokoja A Kogi State High Court of Justice sitting in Koton-karfe, yesterday restrained the state Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, and the state House of Assembly from removing the state Chief Judge, Justice Nasiru Ajanah from office.

The order was obtained by the Chief Judge and the Chief Registrar who approached the court in the wake of the purported plan by the assembly to investigate them and the state judiciary, following a petition to the assembly by the Secretary to the State Government, Folashade Arike Ayoade, against the judiciary purporting an impasse between the executive and judiciary arms of the state.

Ayoade is standing trial before High Court 1, the Chief Judge’s

court on charges proffered against her by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC).

The judiciary of the state is also on strike, which was declared on Tuesday by the state’s chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) over accumulated salary arrears of almost six months.

In the ex-parte application filed at the court by Yemi Muhammed, counsel to the two applicants, the plaintiffs sought the court’s urgent intervention through three prayers.

The applicants requested for an interim injunction restraining the defendants from threatening or interfering in the discharge of the duties of the applicants.

The counsel also urged the court to restrain the defendants from taking cognisance of any report emanating from the ad-hoc committee set up by the state assembly on December 11, 2018,

pending the determination of the substantive suit.

The learned counsel also asked the court to also expedite action on the matter expeditiously through accelerated hearing.

Hon. Justice Alaba OmolayeAjileye, who presided over the case in his ruling, restrained the governor, the State House of Assembly or their agents or privies, from “acting or threatening to act or interfering in any way detrimental to the interest of the Chief Judge of Kogi State, Hon. Justice Nasir Ajanah, and the Chief Registrar of the High Court of the State, Yahaya Adamu, in their duties as the Chief Judge and Chief Registrar, respectively, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice pending before the court”.

The court also restrained the

defendants from “acting on or accepting, debating or taking cognisance, in any way, of the Report of the Ad Hoc Committee set by the House of Assembly to investigate an alleged “impasse” between the Judicial and Executive Arms of the Government of Kogi State”.

Justice Omolaye-Ajileye held that on the strength of the facts contained in the affidavit in support of the motion and the attached documents, he was of the firm view that an urgent intervention of the court was required “to maintain the status quo ante bellum between the parties, lest the claimants/ applicants be clogged with a fait accompli.”

He ordered that all the processes of the action be served on all the parties and adjourned the case to December 18.

Odili: Bill on Parliamentary System Staged to Distract Call for Restructuring Martins Ifijeh The Parliamentary System of Government Bill presently being proposed by 71 House of Representative members is driven to distract Nigerians from focusing on substantive issue of restructuring, the All Progressive Congress candidate for Ndokwa /Ukwuani federal constituency, Paul Odili, has stated.

Odili said if the concern of the lawmakers is to cut cost of governance, they should rather end the bicameral legislature system as there is no need for the upper legislature.

In a statement made available to THISDAY

yesterday, and signed by Odili, he said only the House of Representative was enough to make laws for the country, adding that laws can also be put in place to peg the number of federal appointees by the executive branch.

“There is no reason for a president to appoint more than 15 ministers and five special advisers. Special assistants can be drawn from the civil service.

“President Muhammadu Buhari has shown from beginning that he is in favor of small government. Despite pressure to increase cabinet size he has found ways not to succumb. As a matter of fact, it is the National Assembly

that has consistently used their law making powers to expand the size of the federal government by proposing all manners of structures.

“Instead of proposing bills to reduce the number of ministries, departments and agencies, some of which have overlapping functions and, or are moribund, the reverse is the case at the moment,” he said.

Odili said any kind of reforms that does not demand a reduction in salaries, emoluments and other entitlements hidden and otherwise is an unserious proposal should be disregarded.

He said: “Our public officers are overfed and pampered, and this is across board.

Indeed around two million public servants including civil servants in Nigeria consume roughly 80 per cent of our national budget.

This is unacceptable. Why won’t Nigeria under current circumstances be the poverty capital of the world?

“For the size of our economy there is no justification for the parliament to be full-time. As a matter of fact the number of adjournments and holidays enjoyed by parliamentarians makes the point that it should be made part-time,” he added.

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Times Multimedia Partners CNN on Premium News Times Multimedia, a media, digital publishing and technology company, has announced the establishment of an exclusive partnership with CNN, the world’s news leader, in a one-of-a-kind partnership to create a premium news and entertainment platform – Folio. ng.

According to a statement by Times Multimedia, this exclusive affiliation will bring global expertise in content creation and digital publishing to Nigeria with localised context, working with an experienced on-ground team and a network of the country’s top business and creative talents.

The platform, expected to be launched by early 2019, will reach the residents of Nigeria, as well as millions of Nigerians in the diaspora.

Cataloguing and showcasing the best of Nigeria and its people, the core team will be headquartered in Lagos and supported by auxiliary news teams and content partners

from all over Nigeria.

“The partnership with CNN, established by CNN International Commercial (CNNIC), will enable Folio to access and use CNN reporting and journalism from across the world. CNN will also provide a full suite of consultancy, training and expertise services in areas from content production and distribution to journalistic standards and practices as Folio prepares to launch,” the statement said.

“By launching this CNN affiliated digital publishing platform in Nigeria, we plan to raise the bar for premium news production, quality editorial, immersive video content - thus helping change the narrative of Nigeria in the global context and offer engaging, credible, and indepth news and entertainment, current affairs, education, and other Africa-focused content verticals. In developing this exciting new venture, we are partnering with content creators, technology companies, creative

Buhari Expresses Commitment to Reform Oil Sector Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his commitment to reform the oil and gas sector, pointing out that effectively reforming the petroleum industry must be meticulous and designed to meet the yearnings and aspirations of the citizenry.

Buhari stated this yesterday at the Presidential Villa when he received the newly-inaugurated national executive committee members of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) led by its National President, William Akeoraha.

The president said he was in agreement with the view that reforming the petroleum industry would unlock numerous untapped potential for the country, but stressed that the reforms must be well thought out and must have the best interest of Nigeria and Nigerians as its core objective.

According to him, “Such reforms cannot and must not be rushed if we must get it right.

We are still suffering from the effects of many legacy policies that were rushed and passed without fully appreciating the consequences the provisions embedded in them.”

He added that “whatever decision we take now will impact either negatively or positively on generations to come.

“The Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) was conceived to ensure Nigeria’s future generations are positively impacted by its oil wealth, and that it was never about short term gains.”

Buhari assured them that dialogue on the PIB is still ongoing and that at the end, the country would have a bill that the people would be proud of.

“On refineries, the public private partnership (PPP) approach we adopted to rehabilitate our existing

refineries has taken longer than expected. However, I am aware that the NNPC has concluded the process for selecting the private sector partners that will rehabilitate the refineries. I am informed that they are working out finances and hopefully, work will commence soon,” he said.

He expressed his commitment to continue to support innovative ideas that would bring new investments in refineries into the country, and called for suggestions from NUPENG members “on how we can move forward.

“As one of the architects of the Nigeria Content Monitoring and Development Act, l am sure NUPENG members appreciate that a key principle of this act is the indigenisation of certain processes and production functions. Indigenisation means local value addition leveraging local resources where possible.

“The Act specified minimum local content requirements, including manpower, for all projects and contracts in the oil and gas industry. The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board is fully empowered to ensure compliance. l will direct the Minister of State Petroleum Resources to review the issues you have raised and take appropriate action to ensure compliance with the Act by operators in the industry.”

He implored his visitors to submit any petition they may have to the Minister of State with the assurance that such will be looked into diligently.

Highlight of the visit was NUPENG’s decoration of President Buhari as the ‘Grand Comrade of Productive Workers of Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry’, as part of activities marking the 40 anniversary celebrations of the union.

professionals and media experts with great experience and backgrounds leading both local and global companies. Suffice to say, we believe this movement will inspire a new generation of editors, content creators and

brands to leverage our current cultural equity on the world stage,” Managing Director, Times Multimedia, Zubby Emodi, said.

“An important part of CNN’s mission and strategy is to empower innovative news

organisations around the world with the tools and capabilities to launch exciting new services”, Senior Director, Content Sales and Partnerships, EMEA, CNNIC, Roland Nikolaou, said.

“Folio epitomises the spirit

and ambition that we look for, and we are excited to exclusively partner with Times Multimedia in its plan to bring a fresh source of news to Nigeria, its diaspora and the wider continent,” Nikolaou added.

GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY…

L-R: Commandant, Nigeria Immigration Training School, Kano, Mr. Segun Adegoke; Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service, Mr. Mohammed Babandede; and Managing Director, Bristow Helicopters, Captain Oladapo Oyeleke, during the inauguration of two blocks of classrooms and two solar-powered boreholes donated by Bristow Helicopters to the training school as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility in Kano... recently

Julius Berger, Nigerian Media Face Similar Challenges, Says Executive Director The Executive Director, Administration of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi has said that both the Nigerian media and the company constantly faced similar challenges in trying to achieve their multi-faceted operational goals.

He spoke in Abuja when the frontline construction giant feted media executives to an end-of-year get-together recently.

According to Bayi, within the utilitarian context in which the two different sectors operate, Julius Berger as an engineering construction firm and the media establishment face a similar fundamental challenge, adding that, “the challenge lies in the

perception we both receive from the public, which consumes our works, products and services; the public which we must respectfully, at all times, continue to serve.”

He said commendations and condemnation of efforts by the two sectors depend on the perception of their audiences and consumers of the services and products provided.

“Julius Berger receives open commendation and goodwill when the user public is satisfied with the precise engineering infrastructure, which we seriously, innovatively and professionally deliver for the use, convenience and comfort of Nigerians. In a similar manner, the media gets high accolades when it professionally delivers precise, factual and helpful information

to enhance the greatest good of the greatest number of Nigerians, ”Bayi said.

He added, “because of our necessary, mutual and open commitment to excellence, progressive development and the common good, our society understandably asks for more from Julius Berger as well as from the media.”

He stated that Julius Berger Plc believes that there are three noticeable and interesting operational connections between the work of the company and the work of the Media.

In his response, the Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Emmanuel

Ogbeche, thanked Julius Berger for hosting the media executives saying that the company has always been part of the country’s progress.

The NUJ Chairman who is also the Editor of Abuja Inquirer newspaper continued: “Nigerian journalists will continue to hold every public and private institution accountable to the people. However, we have listened to the Executive Director very well. On that note, I must say that Nigerian journalists are ready to deepen our relationship with Julius Berger. We appreciate the mutual respect and harmony that characterise the relationship between the Media establishment and Julius Berger.”

Youths Protest against Governor Emmanuel Thousands of youths from Akwa Ibom State yesterday stormed the State Headquarters of Nigeria Police, Ikot Akpan Abia to protest what they described as “maladministration, preference for thuggery and interference” by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel.

The protesters, who were led by the State Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), Stephen Ntokekpo; member Representing Itu State Constituency, Hon. Prince Idongesit Ituen; former Transition Chairman of Abak Local Government Area, Emmanuel Udosen and Tony Umoh, respectively, urged the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police to continue to discharge his constitutional duties.

Speaking, the State Youth Leader of APC said the leadership of Akwa Ibom State under Governor Emmanuel has been completely ‘comatosed’ citing the recent invasion of State House of Assembly with the aid of armed thugs which resulted in total breakdown of law and order.

“Specifically we thank the Inspector General of Police who in his preclusive rights has been able send men of integrity to restore law and order”.

Our simple message is that the governor should stop insulting our elders and institutions with immediate effect or we will rise and send him home”.

Umoh, the State Deputy Youth Leader, expressed confidence in the police for stemming the tide of criminality and accused the

governor of working against the security and stability of Akwa Ibom State by importing strangers.

“We are for one man, one vote. We will resist any form of intimidation before, during and after the elections. Udom is going back to Lagos”.

In the same vein, Ituen restated that power belongs to the people.

“On the recent pronouncement by the governor that Commissioner of Police must be changed, the lawmaker stated that the police commissioner is not for the governor but the entire people of Akwa Ibom State.

He reaffirmed total confidence in the police and promised total civil disobedience against any attempt to change the

commissioner.”

On his part, Udosen declared implicit support and confidence of Akwa Ibom Youths for the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Musa Kimo.

“Few weeks ago, some women meandered around the state in black, for me, they were mourning the exit of Udom Emmanuel. The governor himself invaded the House of Assembly uninvited, look around, if we had decided to respond, the state would have been in chaos. We are here to say in clear terms, we don’t want that to happen again”.

He further lampooned the governor for celebrating the death of the people who died during Reigners Bible Church collapse.

55

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

FRIDAYSPORTS

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

Weah Accepts Invite for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Matchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in Lagos, Sends Xmas Card to Ambode

By Duro Ikhazuagbe Former World Footballer of the Year and President of Liberia, George Opong Weah, has accepted invite to be part of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Matchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; aimed at celebrating the sports achievements of Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode.

Speaking at the Government House in Liberia yesterday when two of the organizers of the match, ex-internationals Waidi Akanni and Samson Siasia, paid him a courtesy visit in Liberia, the former football star expressed his happiness to be part of celebration of excellence in the game he truly loves.

Weah who was presented with a customized jersey (with his traditional Number 14) to be used in the African Legends versus Former Nigerian Stars scheduled for March next year, sent a beautifully handcrafted Christmas card to Gov. Ambode. â&#x20AC;&#x153;President Weah was very happy when we met him for a private breakfast session at his official resident yesterday morning. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really excited to be part of the celebration of excellence where other former African stars will also feature,â&#x20AC;? observed Akanni on telephone

from Liberia yesterday.

Former Super Eagles Head Coach Siasia also expressed joy that Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only former World Footballer of the Year has accepted the invite to be part of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Matchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that will also be used to officially inaugurate the Onikan Stadium currently under renovation.

Twenty-one African football legends including Didier Drogba and El Hajj Diouf have been selected to participate in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Match: A Celebration of Excellence in Sportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; project scheduled to hold March 16, 2019.

Some of the other former stars of the Beautiful Game in the continent who have been approached to join in extolling the giant strides made

by Ambode include Drogbaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s former Elephants teammate, Kolo Toure, Ghanaian duo of Michael Essien and Stephen Appiah. Former French star, Christian Karembu is also on the card to storm Lagos.

From the home front, ex internationals like Siasia, Nwankwo Kanu, Austin Jay Jay Okocha, Joseph Yobo, Julius Aghahowa and several others have been listed to participate in the African All-Stars versus Nigerian Legends.

Akwa Ibom Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Imabong Nse, is the sensational 14-year old product of Gov Udom Emmanuelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Catch Them Youngâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; programme who yesterday won gold in the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 400 metres event of the ongoing National Sports For in Abuja

Okagbare Laments Poor Attendance at NSF 2018 Femi Solaja Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s queen of the track, Blessing Okagbare-Ighoteguonor has expressed her displeasure to the low turn out of crowd at the Athletics event of the 19th National Sports Festival (NSF) in Abuja.

The sprint specialist and Olympic and Commonwealth medalist for Nigeria has been watching with keen interest the track and field events of the games and observed that the empty stand since day one of the Athletics events is not a

good publicity of the sports even when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an open event. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To the best of my knowledge the athletes have done very well and I want to commend all the medalists especially in the track events. But l also want to observe that if the stands had been a bit full, it will add more and perhaps motivate the athletes to do better and will translate to a good public relation stuff to our sport. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am not indicting the organisers considering the fact that the programme had suffered endless postponements and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good thing that we are enjoying it now.

Gov Udom Congratulates Teenage Sensation Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel has congratulated teenage sensation Imaobong Nse who yesterday defeated all comers to win gold in the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 400 metres event of the 19th National Sports Festival in Abuja.

The 14-year old champion of the National Youth Games in Ilorin this year was entered by the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body just to give her â&#x20AC;&#x153;experienceâ&#x20AC;? only for her to beat all comers to gold in a time of 52.35 seconds.

Nse announced her intention to be in the medals range right from the heats when she kept spectators on their toes with her natural strides, coupled with a youthful exuberance that depicted her pleasure going into the finals.

Student of Fulga International School in Uyo, Nse was the cynosure of all eyes when she cruised to three gold medals in

Ilorin youth Olympics and the feat was repeated yesterday in Abuja.

When Gov Emmanuel was told of the feat by the Hon. commissioner of Youth and Sports, Sir Monday Uko, the Akwa Ibom Governor cheerfully broke the news to all present and was all praise for the teenager from Ikot Abasi One in Etinan Local Government Area.

Nse, a product of the Youth Sports Festival pioneered by Governor Udom last year, took time off the various cash gifts and hugs to thank Governor Udom for the Festival, â&#x20AC;&#x153; which helped to discover meâ&#x20AC;?

It was also an athletics night of dance and cheers for the high riding Team Akwa Ibom when Christian Asuquo and Unyime Uwak both won gold in the 200 metres para athletics event, men and women respectively.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I recalled at 2004 festival here in Abuja and my second appearance at Ogun 2006 the ambient at the stadium was astonishing and a great motivating factor that brought some of us to national limelight we are today. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It will be a good thing if all the potentials discovered here are are nurtured to greater height instead of leaving them to their respective State government to lie idle and lose the steams in them,â&#x20AC;? remarked the 30 year-old sprinter.

On why she failed to participate in the events in spite of the fact

that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an open contest, the athlete, whose personal best in 100 meters stands at 10.79 secs in 2013 and 200 meters at 22:04 this year said she would had wished to perform before her numerous fans but as a programme athlete, the up coming events on the global stage will not give room for that and that she hopes to come back and burn the tracks at the next available opportunity. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I would had loved to run at list motivate most of the athletes in the sprint events but I have to guid my Calendar very well with the World Cup and Golden

Nigeria Register Nine for Africa Schools Badminton Championship Nine players will represent Nigeria at the Africa Schools Badminton Championship, starting today, December 14 and will end on December 20 at the Tema International School, Ghana.

This will be the first time Nigeria will be participating in this championship since itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inception in the year 2006.

Rufai Saddam Sidi, Daniel Christopher Egbonyi, Khalil Safana Shamsuddeen, Umar Ahmad Balarabe and Bankole Babatunde Timileyin will fly Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flag in the male category, while Obanishola Sofiat Arinola, Obasanmi Christianah Olajumoke, Taofik Ganiyat Romoke and Mosun Shogbade will represent the country in the female category.

The team departed the country

yesterday with coaches Suleiman Tajudeen and Ismaila Mohammed leading the contingent.

Coach Tajudeen stated that his players were ready to pick four out of the five gold medals on offer, assuring that the team is well prepared to do the country proud.

He said that the players had good preparation and are ready to take on rivals, Algeria and Egypt at the tournament. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We players have trained will are ready for the championship in Ghana. Our aim is to pick four gold medals at the event. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is important to do well because these junior players are the ones who will take over from the senior players, who are currently representing Nigeria.

We also give them the training they need to become to players.

league that will soon commence, there is the need to follow my programme and ensure that nothing go wrong with it,â&#x20AC;? she remarked.

Meanwhile, Samuel Kure Kure of Delta State set a new festival record in javelin men final with 70:24 meters to win the gold just as Arinze Chude of Anambra State won silver in 67:72 m throw and Kenechukwu Chijoke Edeefor of Rivers State came third with 66:16 meters.

Also in Hammer throw, emerged at a festival record by Chukwuebuka Connel who

attained 65:22 metres to win gold in the men event. Ibrahim Baba of Rivers State was second with 51:72 meters and Enahoro Dauda from Oyo State placed third with44:72 meters.

In the chess event, the trio of Oyo, Delta and Bayelsa states are still dominating in the male event as at seventh round with 10 points each but the last two rounds which comes up today will determine the medal status just as Lagos, Edo and Ogun state are also in the run for the final round of the nine-round Swiss event pairing tournament.

WTA Changes Rule to Give Returning Mothers Ranking Protection Mothers returning to tennis will have increased protection for their rankings on the WTA Tour from next season.

Players coming back from childbirth, or injury, will now be able to use their previous ranking to enter 12 tournaments over a three-year period.

But Serena Williamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wish for returning mothers to be seeded in line with that ranking has not been granted.

The WTA has instead decided to guarantee they will not face a seeded player in a tournamentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opening round.

As things stand, players must begin their comeback within two years, and then have a further year in which they can enter eight events under their protected ranking - the ranking held at the start of their absence.

Those rules also apply to players returning from injury.

But there is no protection in place for seedings, with tournaments able to use their own discretion to seed players.

A seeding allows tournaments to ensure the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best players do not meet in the early stages of competitions and instead play lower-ranked players in the opening rounds.

Williams returned to the sport in February after giving birth in 2017 and was not seeded at the French Open, her first Grand Slam appearance since her return, but was given a seeding of 25 for Wimbledon, despite being outside the top 32 in the rankings.

The WTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rule change comes after the organisation canvassed the opinions of players earlier in the year.

Friday, December 14, 2018

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MISSILE Shittu to APC

“I will be a bastard to be defrauded in a party primary election and behave as if I am a slave. They asked us to pay N22m (for nomination form) and didn’t advertise any condition other than what was provided in the constitution. After we have been screened and certified, the chairman of our party unilaterally and in violation of the constitution got me out of the way so that they could impose a newcomer on the party” – Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, saying he will work against the governorship candidate of the APC in Oyo State in 2019.

AKINOSUNTOKUN DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA

akin.osuntokun@thisdaylive.com

The President and His Wife T here is hardly any significant individual who supported the emergence of President Mohammadu Buhari and has not found cause to regret the decision and express disappointment at his stewardship.

For those of us who did not and warned on the kind of President he would turn out to be, we have been vindicated over and over again. In addition to my vocational obligation as a student of Nigerian politics, I was compelled by the circumstances of a recent political pedigree to cultivate a unique understanding of Buhari’s politics in a sustained manner since 2002; and draw a consistent pattern of behavior in his public conduct. It began with the decision taken

by President Olusegun Obasanjo to not only scrap the Petroleum Trust Fund, PTF, but to go further and institute an inquiry into the management of the intervention agency. As revealed by the Haroun Adamu panel, buhari did not come out of the inquiry smelling of roses. And as recently as January 2015, this was Obasanjo’s citation of Buhari in what was supposed to be good public relations endorsement ‘’I haven’t said this publicly, I would say it publicly now. When we looked into it, there was really nothing amiss except that that organization went from road building to mosquito net-buying and all sorts of things. ‘’And what the investigation discovered is a bit of inconsistency in prices and all that.

In one area, mosquito net might have been given for N50; in another, N45. And I then remarked that this is fishy. We should look into it’ ‘’I said okay Muhammadu, between me, you and God, was there any personal benefit for you? And you said ‘no.’ I said that is the end of the matter”. This ambivalent testimony was a teaser to the generally incriminatory note of the detailed report of the inquiry.

As a close political associate to the former President and in my capacity as the spokesperson of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, Presidential campaign in the 2003 general elections I was granted the privilege of reading through the report but cautioned against making it an issue in the 2003 Presidential election campaign. Despite the incriminating evidence in the report, Obasanjo chose not to follow through on the report and hold Buhari to account. In a questionable display of espirit de corps he said he would not be party to the public humiliation of anyone who has had the privilege of occupying the office of the President of Nigeria. Other than gratifying a peculiar sense of humor-with the conversion of the official premises of the PTF to that of the Independent corrupt practices commission, ICPC, I am not aware of any other material step he took to bring anyone implicated in the inquiry to book.

Regardless, Buhari felt deeply offended and from that moment on gravitated towards any cause and casus belli that would afford him the platform of getting back at Obasanjo.

Even though he had been military head of state, it was difficult to project, from his reclusive and dour personality, a latter day career in partisan politics for Buhari. It would take the personal motivation of the

Buhari

PTF provocation to tilt the scale and push him into the field. Fired by vengefulness, he rapidly evolved to become the rallying figure for Northern\Muslim irredentist politics and personification of the ensuing ethno regional based confrontation of Obasanjo’s Presidency.

Instrumentality for the prosecution of this antagonism readily presented itself in the contrived Sharia identity crisis inclusive of his infamous incitement and instigation to the effect that Nigerian Muslims should ‘vote for only those who would protect their faith’. He similarly led a Fulani delegation to confront the then Governor of Oyo state, Lam Adesina whom he essentially accused of taking sides in the crisis between ‘my people and your people’ (the clashes between Fulani herders and native farmers) in the Oke Ogun province of Oyo state. This parochial leadership role was ultimately formalized into the perennial Presidential candidate of Northern irredentist politics-as it transmuted from the All Nigeria Peoples’ Party, ANPP

With this evidence from the horse’s mouth, the Nigerian electorate cannot now claim it has not been provided sufficient grounds to indict and convict the Buhari Presidency and act to put this nightmare behind us in the forthcoming 2019 general elections

through Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, to the All Progressive Congress, APC. Beyond the intervening variables of his lack of physical fitness and deficient global enlightenment, the elements comprising his political and governance personality make up consist of the following factors. First is the motivation to build a personality cult around himself and reduce the Presidency to a Buhari palace court writ large. Second is the need to assuage a sense of personal political injury and the appropriation of the allied role of the avenging angel of HausaFulani hegemony. Third is the outsourcing of bureaucratic governance and regime advocacy and defense to the South West faction of the APC. He wants to reign not govern. Fourth and by no means the last is what keen observers of Nigerian politics call the class of 1966 syndrome.

The syndrome is characterized by the arrogation of the knowledge of what is in the best interest of Nigeria as the exclusive preserve of the victorious alliance that took a stranglehold on the power politics of Nigeria since July 1966; and that this victorious alliance should remained defined by the core element of Hausa-Fulani hegemony. The intermittent contestation of this perspective (especially in it’s more virulent resurgence in the Buhari Presidency) has constituted an abiding source of political crisis and instability in Nigeria.

It is always a tough call to blend extreme parochialism and primitive insularity with meritorious governance.

Into this mix alights the perplexity of the first lady-the Aisha Buhari political phenomenon.

On what becomes of his wife should he win the Presidency, Buhari typically promised much more than he could deliver-when he pledged to do away with the office of the first lady altogether. Not only has he been thwarted in this modest aspiration, his wife has raised the stakes to the hitherto unprecedented level of washing Buhari’s dirty linen in the public.

She started this odyssey by exposing him to the first of his trademark international gaffes.

Whilst she was busy raising hell at home on the marginalization of her political allies in the ensuing cabal captive politics of the Presidency, her husband was been received

by Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin. For the international enlightenment challenged Nigerian President the event started going badly when he referred to the federal republic of Germany as the federal republic of West Germany. Plumbed by the international media for a response to the scene his spouse was creating at home-he exclaimed (in a failed attempt at humor) he was not aware of the political party affiliation of his wife but, that, in his opinion, the role of his spouse is limited to the kitchen, the living room and the other room. The tragedy was that he expressed this witless misogyny while sitting next to Chancellor Merkel.

The persistence of what has now become the Aisha buhari brand is first and foremost the externalization and exposure of the disharmony and dysfunction that is at the heart of the Buhari Presidency. Neither, for that matter, does it speak well of a settled and stable homestead. No wife should be encouraged to publicly and habitually embark

on vengefully venting her personal frustrations with her husband-even as I acknowledge that this errant behavior echoes my public concerns and serves my partisan purposes.

I certainly see no patriotism or idealism in her conduct, what I see is the abundance of turf fight, radical temperament and the willingness to play the dog in the manger role if the incumbency of her husband does not sufficiently accommodate her fantasy and vanities. Were she afforded the status and influence of Maryam Babangida, Maryam Abacha, Turai Yaradua or Patience Jonathan; it is inconceivable that anyone would have heard a publicly discordant tone from her.

Other than the exception of the occasion in which she took issues with the state house clinic, all her angst had been directed at a lack of fairness in the share of the spoils of office especially-as it pertains to her. The allegation that her husband has disregarded the obligation of rewarding politicians (who facilitated his election) with public appointments and patronage has no bearing on the quality of governance. As a matter of fact, it can be an indication of a public spirited resolve to elevate concern with good governance over and above partisanship and any such consideration. Nonetheless and whatever her motivations, the unintended consequence of her errant behavior has served public good by bearing the most authoritative witness to the incapacity of her husband to be a good and competent President.

The light she has thrown into the inner workings of the Buhari Presidency explains a lot of what we know to be critically remiss of this President-his short attention span, inaccessibility, absent mindedness, ignorance, lack of empathy, nepotism and other depredations of the personality cult syndrome. The worrisome implication of her alarm is that the revelations she has made, most certainly constitute the tip of the iceberg-she has spoken of only what she knows and which, in all likelihood, she had minimized. What about the ones from which she is precluded-afterall she doesn’t follow her husband to the office nor accompany him on most of his travels.

It is only meet and proper to end today’s fare with her memorable quote and ponder the enormity of its implications going forward.

With this evidence from the horse’s mouth, the Nigerian electorate cannot now claim it has not been provided sufficient grounds to indict and convict the Buhari Presidency and act to put this nightmare behind us in the forthcoming 2019 general elections.

The sum of her clarion call is that the man dies in all who keep silent in the face of the Buhari yoke “ If 15.4 million people can bring in a government and only for the government to be dominated by two people or three people, where are the men of Nigeria? Where are the Nigerian men? What are you doing?

Instead of them to come together and fight them, they keep visiting them one after the other, licking their shoes (I’m sorry to use those words). Our votes were 15.4 million in the last elections and after that only for us to be dominated by two people… this is totally unacceptable”.

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