THURSDAY 17TH JANUARY 2019

No Corrupt Person Will Go Free, Buhari Assures Nigerians Explains second term run, says a loss won’t be the first Deji Elumoye, Omololu Ogunmade, Onyebuchi Ezigbo and Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari

has reiterated the resolve of his government not to spare any Nigerian involved in any corrupt practice.

Buhari, who appeared alongside Vice President

Yemi Osinbajo, at a town hall meeting tagged ‘The Candidates’ organised by the MacArthur Foundation in collaboration with NTA and DARIA Media in Abuja

yesterday, emphasised that the anti-corruption stand of the present administration is now being pursued with vigour.

He said any Nigerian, no matter how highly placed,

who has been accused of corruption, investigated and found to be culpable would definitely face the wrath of the law.

The president who had

earlier noted that his anticorruption crusade could not have similar impetuous as his first coming as military Continued on page 8

Abuja Court Suspends Warrant of Arrest for Pinnick, Four Others… Page 54 Thursday 17 January, 2019 Vol 23. No 8674. Price: N250

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Higher Consumer Prices Push Inflation to 11.44%

James Emejo in Abuja

80 HEARTY CHEERS...

L-R: Ondo State Governor, Chief Olurotimi Akeredolu; former Lagos State governor, Senator Bola Tinubu; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; the celebrant and former Osun State governor, Chief Bisi Akande; the state Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola; and former governor of the state, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, during the 80th birthday ceremonies of Akande in Ibadan… yesterday

The Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures inflation increased to 11.44 per cent (year-on-year) in December 2018 compared to 11.28 per cent in the preceding month, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

It stated that the 0.16 per cent points increase from November estimates resulted from increases recorded in all the divisions that constitute the headline index.

Continued on page 6

No Respite for CJN as FG Asks NFIU to Freeze His Accounts Opposition parties kick Buhari unaware of decision to arraign Onnoghen, says Osinbajo He knew, insists PDP Agbakoba tells court to quash charges

Tobi Soniyi, Ejiofor Alike in Lagos, Adedayo Akinwale and Udora Orizu in Abuja The federal government, through the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, has requested the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit

(NFIU) to freeze five bank accounts of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen, pending the final determination of the case against him at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

But Vice President Yemi

Osinbajo stated yesterday that President Muhammadu Buhari only got to know about the planned arraignment of Onnoghen, at the CCT on Saturday.

Osinbajo’s claim was repudiated by the Peoples

Democratic Party (PDP), which said Buhari knew much more than his deputy was telling Nigerians.

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), which made public the communication from the AGF

to NFIU on the freezing of CJN’s accounts, also raised the alarm over the safety of Onnoghen in the hands of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government, as well as moves to confiscate his assets and freeze his bank

Atiku Warns against Mounting Youth Unemployment... Page 6

accounts for allegedly refusing to compromise the composition of the post-general election appeal tribunals.

In a letter addressed to the Director of NFIU signed by one Abiodun Aikomo, on behalf of AGF, the justice minister said the request to restrict normal Continued on page 6

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Atiku Warns against Mounting Youth Unemployment Says they may lynch the elite Vanessa Obioha The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, yesterday raised the alarm that the elite may be mobbed by unemployed youths in the country if jobs are not created, stressing that job creation plays an integral role in economic growth.

The PDP presidential candidate raised the alarm in Lagos at a business summit with stakeholders in the business sector to discuss the state of the economy in line with his policy document on how to get Nigeria working again.

While pointing out that the harsh economic realities are responsible for the current wave of unemployment in the country, Atiku in company with his running mate, Mr. Peter Obi, said it was very heart-breaking to see unemployed youths begging for alms. “We must create jobs, if not; we will get mobbed one day by the unemployed youths. They are like a time bomb. When

businesses are folding up, shops are closing, industries are falling, foreign direct investments are not attracted; poverty is embarrassingly becoming our trademark, the rating of our hard working businessmen by international rating agencies is becoming decimal; when we have a government that has remained insensitive to all these, I feel it is the time not only to offer myself for service to salvage the situation but also to reiterate my aim to create a strong, resilient and prosperous economy that creates jobs and opportunities for all of us,�

Atiku explained.

He also reiterated his plan to privatise the petroleum and electricity sectors while clearly stating that he has no plans to assume the role of Minister of Petroleum Resources if elected.

He promised that women would constitute 30 per cent of his cabinet, while 40 per cent would be allocated to the youths, adding that education would be given a priority attention.

On tackling corruption, Atiku

said applying technology would be the right approach. “We are more educated than the UAE and one of the ways they have been to ensure that there is minimal corruption is to introduce technology-driven governance.

They tried to eliminate personal contact between members of the faculty with government officials.

We can finally eliminate corruption because it is being played virtually in the public sector. Don’t think we cannot do it, we can do it.

I am just too impatient to see in my lifetime when poverty becomes redundant,� he added.

NNPC a ‘MaďŹ a’ Organisation Atiku described the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) as a “mafia organisation,â€? and vowed to privatise it if elected.

He said he would take the step even if doing so would cost him his life.

The presidential candidate

explained that he sold the idea to ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo but that the former president did not approve of it.

Atiku said he was convinced that NNPC would run better if not managed by the government.

He said, “Let me go back to my experience. When we got into office, I walked up to my boss and said ‘Sir, there are two mafia organisations in government: one is the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) while the other one is the National Electricity Power Authority (NEPA).’ “I said unless we dismantle these mafia organisations, we cannot make progress. Let’s privatise them‌ the long and short of this is that I am committed to privatisation as I have said. I swear even if they are going to kill me, I will do it (privatise NNPC).â€?

Atiku also spoke on how an expert in the petroleum sector influenced his stance on privatisation of NNPC. He narrates his experience, “I asked a Nigerian professor

based in America; I said, ‘Prof, do you have ministry of petroleum in America?’ He said no.’ “I said, ‘Do you have an organisation like NNPC over there?’ He said no. And America produces oil more than any country? He said yes. “So I asked him, ‘How do they do it in America?’ And he said taxation, and I decided that I will go by taxation too.�

He also criticised the current administration for the delay in passing the petroleum industry governance bill (PIGB).

Atiku, who said the level of unemployment in the country is worrying, narrated his encounter with idle youths during his campaign rallies.

On his part, Obi cited the Chinese economy, saying one of the ways Nigeria can tackle the issue of unemployment is to invest in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMES). “We should be willing to work with people that can learn from nations. The only way to tackle unemployment aggressively is to look at other

nations you can compare us with and see how they have been able to address that. The best nation we can learn from is China. How did China solve the problem of unemployment?

They achieved that by using the MSMES. Sixty per cent of employment in China today comes from that sector. That percentage is responsible for the industrial output and GDP increase. They supported MSMES. We need to do same here,� Obi said.

He argued that fighting corruption is not an economic policy. “No country in the world will focus on only fighting corruption, the various toll gates in government are a problem.

In Ukraine and Rwanda, money goes directly from the federal government to schools unlike here where money goes through different agencies. These things should be removed from our system. You should also reduce the meeting points of money and people. And this can be achieved through technology,� he added.

PDP Insists Buhari is Aware of CJN’s Arraignment

to unelected individuals due to his incompetence. “Vice President Osinbajo’s assertion has also confirmed the claims by our First Lady, Aisha Buhari, that a cabal has taken over the control of the presidency, for which she forcefully called on Nigerians to take back their country.�

accounts as well as seize his assets, lamented that the APC had taken the attack to a new low by moving to confiscate the family assets of the CJN. It noted that Nigerians would be shocked by the contents of the letter directing the freezing of the accounts and assets of the CJN.

CUPP Raises the Alarm over Onnoghen’s Safety

SAN: Executive Order Freezing CJN's Accounts Unconstitutional

NO RESPITE FOR CJN AS FG ASKS NFIU TO FREEZE HIS ACCOUNTS banking operations in the five accounts was in line with the Presidential Executive Order No. 6 of July 5, 2018.

The letter with reference number HAGF/2019/E06/ Vol. 1, was titled, ‘Re: Request for freezing of bank accounts subject to investigation and prosecution pursuant to Presidential Executive Order No. 06 of July 5, 2018, on the preservation of assets connected with corruption.’ Malami’s letter, which was dated January 14, 2019, was also received and acknowledged by the NFIU on the same date.

Part of the letter reads, “I am directed by Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to request that you, pursuant to the Presidential Executive Order No. 06 of 2018, forthwith restrict normal banking operations on certain accounts belonging to Hon. Justice Walter Onnoghen, pending final determination of the case against him at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT/ABJ/1/19 – Federal Republic of Nigeria V. Hon. Justice Onnoghen Walter Samuel)�.

The letter listed the five accounts to include: Account No. 50010626886 (Euro) in Standard Chartered Bank (SCB); Account No. 5001062679 (Pound Sterling, SCB); Account No. 0001062650 (Dollar, SCB); 0001062667 (Naira, SCB); and

Account (Naira).

No.

5000162693

Buhari Unaware of Decision to Arraign Onnoghen, Says Osinbajo Meanwhile, Osinbajo has stated that Buhari only got to know about the planned arraignment of Onnoghen at the CCT on Saturday.

He also expressed sadness over the trial of the CJN and the President of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Paul Usoro.

The CJN was arraigned at the CCT over alleged nondeclaration of assets.

He expressed regrets that the CJN had to go through the process.

He, however, said the president had issued specific instructions that anti-graft institutions should be allowed to do their jobs without any interference.

The vice president made these clarifications yesterday in Abuja during a one-day conference organised by Online Publishers Association of Nigeria (OPAN), with the theme, “Free Press and objective reporting in the 2019 election year.�

He said, “I must tell you in clear terms that for President Muhammadu Buhari, his whole approach is that institutions should just do their work. “I can tell you for a fact that

he did not even know about this until Saturday evening.

He did not even know that there will be any kind of arraignment until Saturday evening. “He has said categorically, do not interfere with whatever institutions are doing; sometimes, it has consequences such as we have today; such that people say how can such an important person be subjected to a trial without the federal government? “But I can tell you without any equivocation whatsoever that he was not even in the know because it is a specific instruction that he gave. “So, even where somebody else calls a public officer such as Ibrahim Magu of EFCC and says something or the other, he will say `no, no, no, Mr. President has said I can do my work. “My take is that I would rather not have a situation where senior members of my profession are being tried for an offence; certainly, I will rather not have that kind of situation. “ So, I do not feel particularly good about it; as a matter of fact, I feel very sad; that it is going on at all, that is my position.’’ Osinbajo tasked online publishers to go after details and check the facts before publishing; warning that online news was losing credibility.

However, the PDP accused Osinbajo of being economical with the truth, when he stated that Buhari was not aware of the plans by the executive arm to arraign Onnoghen before the CCT. The Director of Media and Publicity of PDP Presidential Campaign, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement yesterday in Abuja, said Osinbajo should know that Nigerians are aware there is no way such high level decision, like the arraignment of the CJN in a court, would be taken without the awareness, input and clearance by the president.

Rejecting Osinbajo’s claim, the PDP challenged the vice president to explain why the president did not stop the arraignment on Monday or said anything on the matter since then.

The main opposition party stressed that the presidency was only trying to sway public opinion on the matter following the outrage by Nigerians against the arraignment of the CJN. Ologbondiyan stated, “If the avowal by Vice President Osinbajo was true, then it goes to confirm the assertion that President Buhari is not in charge of governance but has outsourced the responsibilities of his office

In a related development, the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), has raised the alarm over the safety of Onnoghen.

The CUPP revealed that it had uncovered a plot by the federal government to freeze the CJN's bank accounts as well as confiscate other family assets via a letter from the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami to the Director, Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).

In a statement issued yesterday by CUPP's spokesperson, Mr. Ikenga Ugochinyere, the coalition lamented that the current ordeal of the CJN will not end soon, adding that he is up against forces who are desperate and who do not care if the engine of state grinds to a halt.

The CUPP, which said it was in possession of a letter from the AGF to freeze Onnoghen's

HIGHER CONSUMER PRICES PUSH INFLATION TO 11.44% The urban inflation rate increased to 11.73 per cent (yearon-year) in December from 11.61 per cent in November, while the rural index increased to 11.18 per cent in December from 10.99 per cent in the preceding month.

Food inflation was recorded at 13.56 per cent in the month under review compared to 13.30 per cent in November.

According to the NBS, the composite food index rose by 13.56 per cent in December compared to 13.30 per cent in November.

The rise in the food index was caused by increases in prices of soft drinks, fish, bread and cereals, oils and fats, coffee, tea and cocoa, meat, milk, cheese and egg,

vegetables, potatoes, yam and other tubers.

On month-on-month basis, the food sub-index increased by 0.81 per cent in December, down by 0.09 per cent points from 0.90 per cent recorded in the preceding month.

The average annual rate of change of the food sub-index for the twelve-month period ending in December over the previous twelve-month average was 14.35 per cent, 0.45 per cent points from the average annual rate of change recorded in November (14.80) per cent.

However, core inflation stood at 9.80 per cent, unchanged from the (9.80) per cent in November.

On month-on-month basis, the core sub-index increased

by 0.50 per cent in December, down by 0.18 per cent when compared with 0.68 percent recorded in November.

The highest increases were recorded in prices of domestic services and household services, dental services, garments, narcotics, major household appliances whether electronic or not, medical services, cleaning, repair and hire of clothing and tobacco.

The statistical agency, in its CPI report for December stated that average 12-month annual rate of change of the index was 10.51 per cent for the twelve-month period ending in December, representing, 0.19 per cent points lower than 10.70 per cent recorded in the preceding month.

Commenting on the latest inflation figures, analysts at Cordros Securities Limited, stated that “With minimum wage still hanging in the air, we expect the dual impact of slight uptick in core inflation and faster deceleration in food basket to midwife a reversal in the headline inflation trend in January.�

They added in a report obtained by THISDAY that on account of a steeper decline in demand for farm produce following the end of festive season, they anticipate that month-on-month food inflation would moderate slightly by two basis points to 0.79 per cent. “However, whilst we expect forex to remain largely rangebound, together with tame

energy prices, we see scope for mild uptick in the m/m core inflation as election related spending intensifies. Overall, we look for January m/m headline inflation of 0.73 per cent translating to year-on-year figure of 11.37 per cent. “Further, we reiterate the implementation of the new minimum wage, currency devaluation, as well as petrol and electricity price hikes, as notable upside risks to inflation in 2019, with year-end forecast of 13.55 per cent year-on-year.�

On its part, Cowry Assets Management Limited predicted further upward pressure on general price level of goods and services in January 2019 as presidential election campaigns intensify.

In his reaction, a senior lawyer, Chief Sebastine Hon, SAN, said the Executive Order freezing the accounts of the CJN was unconstitutional, null and void on many fronts.

According to him, the president donated the powers of 'coordination' exercisable under that Executive Order to the Attorney-General of the Federation.

Hon, who has written many books on the constitution, said, "This can be gathered from the express wordings of the order.

On the face of the so-called order directing a freezing of Continued on page 8

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NEWS

NNPC: Nigeria Earned $640.35m from Crude Oil in October 2018 Chineme Okafor in Abuja The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has said the country earned $640.35 million from the export of crude oil and gas for the month of October 2018.

The corporation disclosed this in its monthly Financial and Operation report for October 2018, released in Abuja yesterday.

The state-run oil firm said the total export receipt of $640.35 million recorded in October 2018 was higher than the $527.70 million earned in September 2018.

The financial results showed that $450.44 million accrued from crude oil sale with gas, while miscellaneous receipts stood at $173.92 million and

$15.99 million respectively.

In the downstream sector, the report revealed that the Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC), a downstream subsidiary of NNPC, posted a receipt of N231.33 billion from sales of white products in the month of October 2018 compared with N150.25 billion sold in September 2018. “Total revenues generated from the sales of white products for the period October 2017 to October 2018 stand at N2.684 trillion, where PMS contributed about 88.32 per cent of the total sales value of N2.371 trillion. “To ensure continuous increase of PMS supply and effective distribution across the country, a total of 1.66 billion

NNPC MD, Maikanti Baru litres of petrol, translating to 55.50 million liters/day, were supplied for the month under review,’’ the report said The report further noted that out of the 1,066.88 million standard cubic feet of gas per

day (mmscfd) of gas supplied to the domestic market in October 2018, about 627.33 mmscfd of gas representing 58.81 per cent was supplied to gas-fired power plants to generate an average power of about 2,349MW. This, it said when compared with the September 2018, was an average of 615 mmscfd supplied to generate 2,303MW. “The balance of 439.35 mmscfd or 41.19 per cent was supplied to other industries,’’ it said.

Similarly, the report noted that for the period of October 2017 to October 2018 an average of 1,188.58 mmscfd of gas was supplied to the domestic market, comprising of an average of 744.06 mmscfd or (62.60 per cent)

as gas supply to the power plants and 444.52 mmscfd or (37.40 per cent) as gas supply to industries.

It added that about 3,096.18 mmscfd or 89.58 per cent of the export gas was sent to Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas Company (NLNG) Bonny.

On the issue of pipeline vandalism, the Corporation raised an alarm on the increasing incidents of pipeline vandalism across the country.

It said that in October its pipeline network suffered a 42.9 per cent increase in the incidents of vandalism compared to the previous month during the year.

Giving a breakdown of the incidents of breaches in its infrastructure it said the corporation recorded 219

pipeline vandalised points in the month under review, compared to 125 incidents it suffered in September of the same year.

It revealed that among the breaches, four vandalised pipeline points failed to be welded and one point was ruptured.

The report stated that cases of vandalism of pipeline facilities were high along Ibadan-Ilorin and Aba-Enugu axis, accounting for 81 (40 per cent) and 39 (18 per cent) vandalised points respectively.

It added that in spite the challenge posed by pipeline vandalism, the NNPC kept an eye on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) stock level to ensure zero fuel queue across the nation.

still needed to be done, it requires more to be able to face the challenge posed by the insurgency.

"I believe that the system is still working otherwise there will be serious break down of law and order," he said.

Osinbajo said on the issue of alleged misuse of military funds that government does not close its eyes to any form of misuse of public funds.

"My take on that is that if there is misappropriation of public funds, there are ways of prosecuting those involved appropriately," he said.

On the question about the increasing rate of poverty in the land, Osinbajo said the situation is not as bad as it was during the era of immediate past government in the country when compared to the level of revenues available to the two administrations.

He specifically blamed the present poverty level in the country on bad governance of the previous administration.

According to him, while more revenues accrued to the country during the past PDP administration, the APC-led administration had to contend with far less revenue to tackle the present challenges facing the country.

He also highlighted some efforts being made by the present administration to address rising poverty, which include the "trader moni" programme being implemented to get persons at the lower rung out of poverty.

According to Osinbajo, the

efforts of the government in this direction are being hampered by lack of adequate resources occasioned by dwindling income from oil.

The president stopped short of saying that losing the forthcoming February 16, 2019 presidential election would not be a big deal because he had lost same election three times before his eventual victory in 2015.

The moderator, Ahmed, had asked the president if he would willingly concede defeat should he lose the forthcoming presidential poll.

Responding, the president

said he had lost elections since 2003 until 2015 when luck smiled on him, noting that he had had to go to court to contest his proclaimed defeat in various courts of the land to no avail during those periods.

"Well, it will not be the first time I would lose an election. I lost in 2003 and went to court for 30 months. I lost in 2007 and went to court for 18 months. I lost in 2011 and went to court for eight months, all the way to the Supreme Court. What they were doing at the time was to write marks and said anyone who disagreed should go to court. But God dey," he said.

Also asked on why he seemed to be indifferent to the leaked video on how Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, was allegedly collecting bribe in dollars from contractors, Buhari said the matter was already before both the court and the Kano State House of Assembly and he would rather wait for the outcome.

"I don't know how much technology they used. Thank God the court and the House of Assembly are handling it.

Hopefully before I go for campaign in Kano, the matter would have been resolved," he said.

Also asked on his administration's solution to the conflict between farmers and herdsmen, Buhari said there had been grazing routes since the First Republic and hence, the Benue State Governor ought not to merely ban grazing but also ought to make arrangements for grazing routes.

According to him, in deeply tested constitutions, such wanton infractions on private rights in the name of executive orders have been voided by the courts.

He cited one example: in 1935 alone, the US Supreme Court voided five of President Franklin Roosevelt's Executive Orders, namely Orders 6199, 6204, 6255, 6284 and 6855!

In view of the above, Hon said he was in ferma terra (on firm grounds) that not only was Executive Order 6 unconstitutional, the so called letter signed by Mr. Aikomo on behalf of the Honourable Attorney-General was totally, completely, irredeemably null and void.

from going ahead with the arraignment of Onnoghen.

In the suit filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Agbakoba is asking the court to quash or set aside in its entirety, all the charges preferred by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), the CCB and the CCT against Onnoghen, on the grounds that they were illegal and unconstitutional.

He also asked the court to immediately mandate the AGF to halt the arraignment of the CJN on the basis of Charge No: CCT/ABJ/01/19 filed at the tribunal.

He stated that since the petition against the CJN was without prior recourse to the National Judicial Council (NJC), it is illegal, unconstitutional, null and void.

In the suit which also the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), CCT and NJC as 2nd to 4th defendants respectively, the learned silk contended that the proposed arraignment of the CJN before CCT without

first having prior recourse to the NJC is illegal, wrongful, unconstitutional, null and void.

He further noted that CCB did not give the CJN the opportunity to respond officially and in a written form, to the allegations contained in the petition submitted to it on January 9, 2019, signed by one Chief Dennis Aghanya, who was an aide to President Muhammadu Buhari in the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC).

The former NBA boss averred that the 1999 Constitution and the Court of Appeal have made elaborate provisions for the discipline of judicial officers which must first begin with NJC. He stated that the defendants failed to allow Justice Onnoghen adequate time to prepare for his defence in tandem with the principle of fair hearing enshrined in the 1999 Constitution.

Agbakoba said since the NJC has not received any petition against the CJN, all the steps taken to arraign him should be declared illegal.

NO CORRUPT PERSON WILL GO FREE, BUHARI ASSURES NIGERIANS leader said, “I told you why I have to be careful. If there are strong allegations and there are evidence; bank accounts, names of companies noted, contracts awarded, then we will take them before the court through the EFCC and ICPC, and we have to trust the system and allow them to complete their investigations. “If we just take people in as we did during the military and we just lock them up, the present multi-party democratic system does not approve of that. If you have accused a person, you have to prove that in court for him to be prosecuted. “So, if there is strong allegation, the government may decide such people should go like the former SGF you mentioned; we asked him to go.�

Asked why Babachir has not been prosecuted if there is strong evidence to ask him to go, which is an indication that may be he did something wrong, Osinbajo who interjected said, “I think the matter is already before the EFCC and I believe that a directive has been issued regarding all persons who have cases before EFCC. I am sure that you will find that each and every person that has been duly investigated will be put on trial.�

Emphasising that his government has not condoned corruption, President Buhari stated, “I don’t think that there is anybody that has been brought out as corrupt in the last dispensation, which we

looked in the other direction. “I think I can best illustrate my experience on this; when I came in uniform in 1984, we arrested the president, the vice president, governors, and ministers and put them in detention and said they are guilty until they can prove themselves innocent. We put committees of investigation and based on geopolitical zones, those that were investigated, except two Nigerians, late ‌.Usman, a junior minister in the Ministry of Education and then late Adamu Ciroma, a governor of the Central Bank and the Minister of Finance, were the only people who were found to have managed their resources with integrity. “But I myself was eventually arrested and detained and those people who were found guilty of misappropriating public funds were given back what was found to have been misappropriated through committee investigation.â€?

Apparently making reference to the ongoing litigation against the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen, who is currently facing litigation at the Code of Conduct Tribunal over alleged non-declaration of assets, Buhari said, “So, I decided to come now and I have to be careful. People are not just arrested like that but once they hold positions, if they made a wrong declaration, it is just one point; they didn’t mention how many houses they have in Europe, America and Asia and they didn’t mention the companies they floated, the

contracts they gave, which is eventually uncovered, they are faced in court with the document.�

Also reacting to allegations of misappropriation of funds and material meant for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North-east, Osinbajo, who said he was never alleged of misappropriating any fund, said the allegation was that the approved fund was not appropriated, said such allegation was inappropriate.

He said, “We have shown evidence, I think since then we have not gotten a reply from them.�

On insecurity, the president said before 2015, Boko Haram was reportedly holding 17 local government areas but now none is under their control.

He also said another way to gauge the successes recorded in dealing with the insecurity challenge is that major roads within the North-east axis have become accessible, adding that the people from the area could also attest to the fact that things are far more better now.

On military spending and complaints about poor welfare and equipment for the soldiers, Buhari said he was not convinced that things were that bad with the country's military.

Regarding the revolt by aggrieved soldiers in the battle line, the president said there is an internal mechanism being employed to deal with soldiers who violate military rules by embarking on demonstration with a view to instill discipline.

He said though much is

Buhari Explains Second Term Run The president also explained that he is seeking re-election in the forthcoming presidential election to consolidate on his achievements in the fight against corruption, insecurity and to ensure economic development.

He said the All Progressives Congress (APC) nominated him as its presidential candidate because he had delivered on the campaign promises of the party. “We want Nigerians to remember where we were in 2015, where we are now and where we are going,� he said.

Buhari: If I Lose This Election, It Won't Be My First Time

NO RESPITE FOR CJN AS FG ASKS NFIU TO FREEZE HIS ACCOUNTS the CJN's accounts, however, the Attorney-General did not personally sign the Order; rather, it was one Abiodun Aikomo.

"This renders the order invalid; because delegated power cannot be delegated.

This is a basic constitutional and administrative point that cannot be toyed with or wished away. “Secondly, from the wordings of Executive Order 6, the Attorney-General is merely to 'coordinate' among the various agencies of government, the enforcement of the Executive Order and not to issue any order, as was done in this case. The literal interpretation of the order is that, apart from the specific items covered by the schedule to the order, Mr. President is supposed to personally sign each order as it affects each individual or situation; then the Attorney-General will 'coordinate' it's execution.

"So, the Attorney-General cannot exercise avante garde powers, purportedly pursuant to Executive Order 6. What

the Attorney-General did in case of the CJN was, and still remains, ultra vires his powers.'

He also faulted the order on another ground saying, under the presidential constitution, powers are allocated to the three arms of government; but the same constitution, in a few provisions, has permitted fusion of powers.

He explained, "That's why we have heads of court empowered to enact rules of those courts (a sort of legislative duty); the legislature exercising oversight powers, with power to cite for contempt (a sort of judicial duty) and the executive, pursuant to section 315(2) and (4) of the constitution, empowered to issue executive orders.

"The president exercising this quasi-legislative power must not infringe on the constitution. That is why section 315(2) insists that any such quasi-legislative action by the president must be targeted at an existing law, with the view to bringing it 'in

conformity with the provisions of the Constitution.'"

He therefore argued, "Executive Order No. 6 not only falls far short of this constitutional baseline, it has listed court cases affected/ covered by it, thereby overthrowing constitutionallyvested judicial powers.

The whole order is, in my humble judgment, totally unconstitutional on this wicket alone.

"But, even if it's constitutional (which is hereby vehemently resisted), the Honourable Attorney-General ought to first obtain a court order before ordering for the freezing of personal bank accounts of Nigerians.

"This is where balancing of powers in a democracy becomes constitutionally imperative. Without this, there will be, as in the case of the CJN, grave infraction on individual and fundamental rights, with a dangerous gravitation towards absolutism and tyranny. The framers of our constitution never intended this result."

Agbakoba Asks Court to Stop Onnoghen’s Arraignment Meanwhile, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), yesterday added to the suits seeking to stop the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT)

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

Osinbajo Urges States to Go to Court over Restructuring Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan Vice President Yemi Osinbajo yesterday in Ibadan, Oyo State, said restructuring of the country can be achieved through litigation as states are free to employ litigation instead of waiting endlessly for constitutional means.

He also said no reasonable Nigerian would be against restructuring, stating that the focus should be on what the restructuring should look like, and not just agitations for restructuring.

Osinbajo, while speaking as Chairman of the Bisi Akande Colloquium with the theme: ‘Nigeria: Achieving National Unity Through Peaceful Restructuring’ to mark the 80th birthday celebration of the former Governor of Osun State, Chief Bisi Akande, faulted the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, who promises to restructure Nigeria within six months if elected president.

Present at the event were the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu; governors Abiola

Ajimobi (Oyo), Nasiru El-rufai (Kaduna), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Rotimi Akeredolu (Ondo), Gboyega Oyetola (Osun), deputy governor of Lagos State, Idiat Oluranti Adebule, and Senator Biyi Durojaye.

Others are former Senate President, Senator Ken Nnamani; Secretary of the APC Committee on Restructuring, Senator Olu Adetunmbi, and Prof. Adigun Agbaje of the Political Science Department of the University of Ibadan, who were the discussants, while Dr. Usman Bugaje was the moderator at the colloquium.

Also present at the event were the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole; former Governor of Ekiti State, Adeniyi Adebayo; former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba, and former Governor of Osun State, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola.

The vice president, who said Atiku and the PDP government vehemently opposed restructuring when the former Governor of Lagos State, Tinubu, introduced it, but was

agitating for fiscal federalism, urged Nigerians to be vigilant and not allow the party to come back to power “as it has not changed its spots.”

Osinbajo, who also outlined the processes involved in restructuring a country, said he, as part of the Lagos State history between 1999 and 2003, used legal means to achieve creation of more Local Council Development Areas (LCDA) in the state, adding that “therefore, such court process could be adopted if truly Nigerians want restructuring.”

He said: “The Government of Lagos State demonstrated that it is positive to have restructuring and devolution of power but by the process of litigation. As of 1999, when I first had encounter with Tinubu, he made it clear to me that one of his most important objectives was for

us to pursue fiscal federalism and devolution of power to our state.

“He wanted me to study it and know how to do it. We spent a lot of time and resources to look into how we could do it. We know that going through the National Assembly is just a waste of time. We then decided to use the process of litigation.

As a matter of fact, we went to the Supreme Court in 12 different times on what we can describe as restructuring.

The federal government at that time of course opposed every such move on our part. Today, our dear presidential candidate of the PDP says he is an expert in restructuring but in those years, when we were fighting for restructuring, he opposed every step we took.

“Every time we were at the Supreme Court, he vehemently

opposed it through the federal government which he served.

Fortunately for us, we were able to record successes which are tremendous achievements today.

The achievements are gains of litigation. We can only get it through the court. As a region, if we are talking of restructuring, we should look at it from the point of view of the court.”

Governor El-Rufai, who delivered the keynote address, said the recommendations of the APC committee on restructuring of which he was the chairman were the best for the country.

According to it, “APC Committee on True Federalism submitted its report last year.

Before I conclude this address, it is important to remind us of the major recommendations. The committee recommended that the federation be rebalanced with more powers and responsibilities

devolved to the states. The committee also clarified that the federation is a relationship solely between the states and the federal government, and that each state should be allowed to operate the system of local government that best suits it.

“In our diverse country, it is only prudent to concede that one size or structure of local governance does not fit all. Successful restructuring depends also on our national resolve to protect the idea of a common citizenship. The rights guaranteed under the constitution should be enjoyed by every citizen, no matter where they reside or which part of the country they hail from.

A restructuring of mentality and values is a key factor in the success of restructuring the governance and political structure.”

Again, Appeal Court Upholds Judgment Annulling Rivers APC Congresses Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt The Court of Appeal sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has again struck out an appeal filed by the faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State loyal to the Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi, challenging the judgment of the Justice Chiwendu Nworgu of the Rivers State High Court which annulled party’s wards, local governments and state congresses.

The Court of Appeal had on the December 12, 2018, struck out the same appeal against the state High Court decision for lack of merit and filing out of the stipulated time in the constitution.

The party had on the Tuesday, January 15, re-appealed challenging the ruling of the same court, stressing that the lower court did not have the jurisdiction to hear the matter on the first instance.

But a panel of the Appeal Court constituted to handle the matter, struck it out yesterday, stressing that it was a pre-election matter.

Delivering the judgment on behalf of the panel, at about 7:00pm, yesterday, Justice C.N. Uwa noted that the matter which the lower court handled was a pre-election matter and ought to have been appealed and disposed off within 60 days after the judgment of the lower court.

Uwa noted that its hands are tied to go into the substantive case, stressing that a preliminary objection which bothers on the status (timing) of the case had earlier been taking by the same court.

Uwa stated that where an action is status barred, it means that the court has no right to hear it, adding that the issue of filing out of time is a preliminary objection, which she said is in

itself a case.

She held that the court would remain consistent in its rulings, adding that the same court had earlier struck the appeal out on the issues of time of filing.

Uwa said: “This is a pre-election matter. It has earlier been held by this same court in an appeal of the substantive matter: This court cannot seat against itself on the same matter.

“The appeal is fundamentally defective. The court cannot go into the matter, as doing so will amount to an effort in futility.

“It is unnecessary to continue on an appeal no matter the merit, which this court has held as status bound. It would be an effort in futility to continue. It is thus status barred! This appeal is hereby struck out” Speaking with journalists immediately after the judgment, Henry Bello, Counsel for Ibrahim Umar and other 22 aggrieved APC members explained that: “There is no Appeal anymore pending in this court of Appeal against the decision of the High Court of Rivers State delivered

by Justice Chiwendu Nwogu on October 10, 2018 “This means that the judgment of the court on October 10, was validly made, subject to the decision of the supreme Court in defending the appeals at the supreme court.

“The implication is that as from today (Wednesday), there is no more challenge at the court of Appeal against that judgment of the lower court, the High Court of Rivers State in the suit by Ibrahim Umar and 22 others against All Progressives Congress.

“By this judgment, it is now declared non and void the indirect primary elections conducted in Rivers State by the APC”, Bello added.

ELECTIONS ON THEIR MINDS...

President Muhammadu Buhari (left), and Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign in Lokoja, Kogi State... yesterday STATE HOUSE

Don’t Arrest Onnoghen, Southern, Middle Belt Leaders Caution EFCC Shola Oyeyipo The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMLF) has cautioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) not to arrest the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen.

In a statement signed by a spokesman of the leaders, Dr. Alfred Mulade, the leaders said the government has been speaking from both sides of the mouth on the matter.

“The information and statement about the siege on the neighborhood of the CJN originated from the CJN’s residence, while this body was in a meeting at Abuja. We could not have manufactured such a statement if the alarm was not raised from the house of the CJN. It is therefore, not fake news. This body only acted to forestall any

untoward incidence of arrest or embarrassment on the person of the CIN. “We strongly advise the EFCC not to do anything, by way of carrying out its threat of arrest and detention of former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode and Mr. Yinka Odumakin, on account of this statement, which has attracted denials. Arrests and detention of FaniKayode and Odumakin on account of this incident can only exacerbate the already tensed situation in the polity.

“We want to further caution that any attempt to intimidate and harass any of our members concerning this issue or in any other guise would be stoutly resisted.

“Secondly, we have also been reliably informed thàt the Federal Attorney-General and

Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN) has directed the freezing of bank accounts of the CJN, Hon. Justice Walter Samuel Onnoghen, vide a letter dated 14, January, 2019, titled: “Re: Request for Freezing of Bank Accounts subject to Investigation and Prosecution pursuant to Presidential Executive Order No. 6 of 5th July 2018, on the Preservation of Assets connected with Corruption”.

“We want to state that this inglorious exercise of freezing of accounts belonging to the CJN when the matter pertaining thereto, being embarked upon by the Hon. AttorneyGeneral is completely unnecessary, and a further deliberate attempt to harass and embarrass the high Office of the Chief Justice of Nigeria.

“The president, according to Vice President Osinbajo,

could not have done anything to stop the prosecution of the CJN, by the Federal AttorneyGeneral, who did not, as the Chief Legal Adviser to the Government, inform the president of the action he was going to take against the CJN. This is condemnable, considering the status of the CJN, who is the head of the third arm of government.

“Mr. Vice President went on to defend the ominous silence of Mr. President on the trial of the CJN, under the guise of the need for noninterference in the operations of anti-graft institutions in the discharge of their duties.”

“We respectful appeal to Mr. President to direct the Attorney-General to stop the prosecution of the CJN at the CCT, request then to follow the due process, because no one is above the law of the land.”

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Buhari Declines Assent to Five Bills Names Tarfa chairman North-east commission Senate adjourns plenary to honour late House member Deji ElumoyeinAbuja President Muhammadu Buhari has declined assent to five bills transmitted to him by the National Assembly in 2018.

His decision to decline assent

was communicated to the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, in separate letters dated January 4, 2019.

The Bills that were denied presidential assent included the Maritime Security

US Expresses Concern over Neutrality of Security Agencies During Elections The United States has raised concern over the handling of security in the elections, starting in February.

A representative of the US embassy in Nigeria, David Young, said this yesterday during a meeting with officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

“One of the concerns is about the neutrality of the security services.

For us, it is very important that the security services provide for the election security, the safety of the process of the election in a way that doesn’t interfere with people getting to the polls, civil society monitors, election observers who have access to observe the process freely,” he said.

He said the US government is supporting INEC and the work it is doing.

He also added that he hoped that Mohammed Adamu the new

Inspector General of police (IG), would cooperate and give the necessary support.

On the other hand, European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria, Ketil Karlsen, said the EU was meeting with INEC to get updates on the preparations for the election.

“Our only real mission here is for Nigeria to succeed in having fee, fair transparent and credible elections,” he said.

“We want to be briefed by you on the preparation for the election. We already have long term observers.”

British high commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, also said they will support INEC to deliver credible election.

INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, responded that the electoral body will not disappoint the international community.

“We have concluded and

Operations Coordinating Board (Amendment) Bill, 2018; Revenue Mobilisation Allocation And Fiscal Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2018; the Bankruptcy And Insolvency Bill, 2018; the Federal Polytechnic (Amendment) Bill, 2018 and the Energy Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2018.

Buhari said in line with Section 58(4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), he declined assent to the Maritime Security Operations Coordinating Board (Amendment) Bill because the proposed amendments will create distortions and duplications with the functions and operations of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

He, therefore, urged the Senate to focus on passing the suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offences Bill -- currently before the National Assembly “to achieve a more comprehensive review of operations in the maritime sector, within the objective of realigning its agencies

for more efficient service delivery and focus on the security of our maritime frontiers.’’

The president gave two reasons for declining assent to the Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (Amendment) Bill, claiming the Bill will interfere with and obstruct the smooth administration of revenue generating agencies of government, while it also sought to confer the powers of oversight of the revenue currently vested in the President and the Minister of Finance to the Revenue Mobilisation Commission and negates the existing provisions of Section 51 of the Federal Inland Revenue Commission.

Drafting issues that affect the clarity and understanding of the bill, which may impair the effective operation of the bill as well as the need to properly domesticate and align the bill to Nigerian law, were the reasons given for the president’s decision to decline assent to the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Bill.

The president also said he refused to assent to the Federal Polytechnic (Amendment) Bill because Section 16(1)(2) of the Amendment Bill strips the president of the power to approve members of the governing council as obtained in the Principal Act. The Energy Commission (Amendment) Bill was also denied presidential assent, claiming it infringes on the Rural Electrification Agency’s powers to carry out its mandate with particular reference to the promotion and development of unserved and under-served rural communities across Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the president has also nominated Major-General Paul Tarfa (rtd), as Chairman of the 11-man Board of the NorthEast Development Commission.

In a two-page request letter dated January 9 and read at plenary yesterday by the Senate President, Buhari requested the Senate to confirm Tarfa, a former military governor of old Oyo State and 10 others as Chairman

and members of the NEDC, in accordance with the provision of Section 2(5)(b) of the North East Development Commission.

The other nominees include, Mohammed Alkali (MD/CEO); Musa Yashi (ED Humanitarian Affairs); Muhammed Jawa (ED, Admin and Finance); Omar Mohammed (ED, Operations) and Hon David Kente (North-east).

Others are Asmau Mohammed (North West); Hon Benjamin Adanyi (North-central); Hon Olawale Oshun (South West); T. E. O Ekechi (South-east) and Obasuke Macdonald (South -south).

President Buhari also nominated Dr. Hamman Tukur for confirmation by the Senate as the Director, Financial Intelligence Unit.

The Senate later adjourned till today, in deference to the death of a member of the House of Representatives, Hon Abayomi Ayeola, who died on December 30, 2018.

Sultan, Others Urge Religious Leaders to Maintain Neutrality in Forthcoming Elections The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, yesterday in Abuja urged religious leaders to maintain neutrality before, during and after the forthcoming general election to enhance national cohesion.

Abubakar gave the advice at the second General Assembly of the Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace (IDFP) with the theme: ‘General Elections and National Security: the Role of Interfaith Communities’.

The Sultan, who is also the President-General of Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), enjoined religious leaders not to allow themselves to be bought by politicians for their selfish interest.

He stressed the need for spiritual leaders to continue to preach the word of God with honesty and sincerity for the good of humanity and sustainable peace in the country.

“As religious leaders, we should be careful about what we say to our followers in churches and mosques bearing in mind that we will all one day stand before God and account for our deeds.

“We should never allow ourselves to be used by any political party or candidate. If you want to support any party or candidates do it personally,” Sultan said.

He admonished politicians to be responsive and uphold national interest by playing politics according to the rules, and be ready for free, fair and credible elections.

The sultan also appealed to the security agencies to discharge

their responsibilities diligently by ensuring peaceful atmosphere throughout the election period.

In a paper titled: ‘2019 General Election and National Security: The Role of Interfaith Communities’, Prof. Sani Lugga said Interfaith communities have a critical role to play in ensuring credible elections.

Lugga said Muslims and Christians had the ultimate duty and responsibility of making Nigeria peaceful and progressive by putting the religiosity into practice in daily private and public lives.

According to him, “Nigerian Muslim and Christian leaders at all levels must take up the challenges of seeing to religious peace, understanding and accommodation.

“This is the most important role that interfaith community in Nigeria can play towards the attainment of peaceful, free, fair and credible 2019 elections.“ Mr. James Igwe (SAN) also urged interfaith leaders to exercise restraint in putting to public domain persuasively optimistic views in form of prophesies that declare who would win or lose the 2019 elections.

He said: “Nigerians are yet to cast their votes, yet some religious leaders are seen as biasing the minds of voters and swaying votes from one candidate to the other.

“I urge interfaith leaders to use prophesies to promote peace and love as well as act in manners consistent with tolerance and harmony.”

DISCUSSING ECONOMY...

L-R: National Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Prince Uche Secondus; Chief Executive Officer, RTC Advisory Services Limited, Opeyemi Agbaje; PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar; his running mate, Mr. Peter Obi; and Former Minister of Special Duties, Taminu Turaki , at an interactive session with the business community, in Lagos...yesterday ABIODUN AJALA

IG Appoints Frank Mba as Force Spokesman 315,032 apply for police constable Alex Enumah in Abuja The Acting Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has announced the appointment of ACP Frank Mba as new spokesman for the Nigeria Police Force.

This is coming as the Police Service Commission (PSC), yesterday said it received 315,032 applications for recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force as constables at the close of its recruitment portal on Friday, January 11, 2019.

Mba takes over from Moshood Jimoh, an acting Deputy Commissioner of Police, who has been redeployed to other national assignment.

According to a statement by the Deputy Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja,

CSP, Adeniran Aremu, the new FPRO, until his appointment, was working at the Special Fraud Unit (SFU), Ikoyi, Lagos. “The posting is with immediate effect”, the statement said .

Mba, an Assistant Commissioner of Police and a Lawyer, is an alumnus of the University of Lagos, where he studied Law. He also has a Masters Degree in Law from the University of Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom.

A product of the Nigeria Police Academy, Kano, where he had his initial police trainings, Mba is a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy, Quantico, USA. He also holds a certificate in National and International Security from the Harvard University, USA. Mba was a former police spokesman-both at the Force Headquarters and the Lagos

State Command “The new Inspector General of Police has therefore charged him to bring his wealth of experience to bear in revamping the image of the Force, improving the relationship between the citizens and the police, bridging existing communication gap between the police and its stakeholders, and assisting the IG in realising his mission and vision for the Force and the nation,” Aremu stated.

Meanwhile, the Police Service Commission (PSC), yesterday said it received 315,032 applications for recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force as constables at the close of its recruitment portal on January 11, 2019.

Consequently the Commission will commence the next step of short listing qualified applicants, based on its advertised requirements, while successful applicants will be invited for physical and document

screening.

A statement by Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, said short listing of the candidates will be carried out online.

The applicants, according to the statement, are required to possess an 0’ level Certificate or its equivalent with at least five credits, including Mathematics and English language -- in not more than two sittings.

Applicants must also be a Nigerian citizen, not less than 18 years of age or more than 25 years of age, and must also be of good character and must not have been convicted of any criminal offence.

A breakdown of the applicants showed that Niger State still retained its first position on the number of applications received with 18,549 applicants followed by Kaduna with 17,936; Kano, 17,483 and Katsina, 17,354.

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COMMENT

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

DIPLOMATIC LEADERSHIP BY DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO Okello Oculi writes that the DRC has what it takes to turn it into a pan-Africa carnival of reconstruction

F

idel Castro and Che Guevara saw Congo as a key death-point for imperialism led by the United States of America. Franz Fanon saw the country as the location of the trigger of a pistol for the armed liberation of Southern Africa from white-settler domination. Mobutu Sese Seko Kukubendu Wazabanga detribalised its name by renaming her as ‘’Zaire’’. Laurent Kabila crowned his successful invasion and deposition of Mobutu’s dictatorship by returning her name to ‘’Congo’’ in remembrance of Patrice Lumumba.

Mobutu, a secondary school pupil punished for following a prostitute to Leopoldville (now Kinshasa) by forced enrolment in military training, adopted Lumumba’s use of incendiary speeches to large crowds round the country to heal hearts and minds of a people whose independence was brutally aborted by a military coup in Kinshasa and a secessionist war in Katanga Province (now Shaba). He envisioned a strategic role for the country and her culturally re-Africanised peoples as creative warriors for cultural decolonisation of Africa in music, sports and identity. Zaire’s national team played in the World Cup football tournament. Corridors of African diplomacy in Addis Ababa were gripped by Mobutu’s delegation spiced with a bevy of female beauties and scintillating music.

The country borders nine countries, namely: Angola, Zambia, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, South Sudan, Central African Republic and Congo-Brazzaville in anti-clockwise locations. Unfortunately, only Zambia and Tanzania have not suffered from a military coup and attendant generalised violence. The militarised leaders of Rwanda and Uganda have invaded her and supported proxy wars inside her territory; while Angola sent in troops to expel their troops, and protect Joseph Kabila’s government. Horrendous civil wars in Central African Republic, South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Angola have driven refugees into DRC. These events have prevented her from an attitude of splendid isolationism inside a vast scoop of Africa’s landmass. She shares sensitive proximity to oil deposits with Uganda on Lake Albert, and with Angola at Cabinda. A combination of a wealth of territorial boundaries and vast natural resources – including a vast forest dubbed as the source of oxygen for both Africa and southern Europe – has condemned her to cynical economic exploitation and military intervention by imperialism and its local and regional agents.

The imperatives of legacies of visions and geographical footprints of European scramble for Africa, offer several frontiers for diplomatic leadership for the country’s leaders. On the eastern front, the troika of Presidents Nkurunziza in Burundi, Kagame in Rwanda and Museveni in Uganda hold footprints of their hunger for resources in eastern Congo.

Their militaristic records suggest a need to entangle them in achieving a faster-moving aspiration for an East African Federation.

The federal entity would include land-locked South Sudan; and

THE DRC SHOULD TAKE THE INITIATIVE IN FOLLOWING SOUTH AFRICA’S MAGNETISM FOR OTHER AFRICANS AS WELL AS RETRIEVING THE AFRICAN DIASPORA AS IMMIGRANTS INTO DRC

Kenya, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Somalia and Eritrea on the Indian Ocean litoral. Burundi and Uganda are fighting El Shabaab militants in Somalia, while Rwanda has troops in Darfur in western Sudan. The integration of DRC into the East African Federation would create a common political space from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Indian Ocean in the east. Congo’s leaders would participate in a defensive and creative nation-building within a pan-African aspiration.

Her officials would offer the federal entity aptitudes for administering a vast territorial space; while they would earn creative energies that drive social engineers of vast and complex spaces like the European Union, India, Brazil, the United States and China.

Since 1994 Rwanda has sprouted Paul Kagame. His background includes being told stories in exile after his ancestors lost political power; being head of military intelligence in Museveni’s fight for power in Uganda; secretly hauling tanks, armoury and troops out of Uganda to fight and defeat government troops in Rwanda; using a novel socialisation for reversing the inter-ethnic hatred that Belgian officials and the Catholic Church had administered during decades of colonial administration; to leading a bold initiative to reform the administration of the African Union, notably: weaning it from reliance on foreign donations to finance its activities.

Leading a country with only 137 miles of borders with DRC, Kagame’s nuisance value against DRC has been in inverse proportion.

His diplomatic skills have blunted open international criticisms for his hostile activities in eastern Congo; while boldly rebuffing President Donald Trump’s instruction that Rwanda must continue to import ‘’Second-hand clothes’’ after establishing a textile mill with collaboration with China. Congo’s leaders would do well to harvest similar energies along her nine borders and channel it into a Collective Investment by the nine countries in her economy.

Nigeria, Ethiopia, Sudan, Kenya, Uganda and DRC have suffered from massive brain and entrepreneurial talent drain to Euro-America.

In Ethiopia, Nigeria, Sudan and Uganda skilled human resources fled brutal military dictatorships; violent death; corruption and patronage governance. In the face of the contest between the merit of importing immigrants to renew a country’s population and Donald Trump’s defence of Caucasian electoral power in American politics, the DRC should take the initiative in following South Africa’s magnetism for other Africans as well as retrieving the African Diaspora as immigrants into DRC. Instead of being a killing field and a ‘toilet arena’ for Euro-American and Asian multinational corporations, imported African skills would turn DRC into a site for a pan-Africa carnival of reconstruction.

Mobutu’s legacy of creativity is shown by 90 inventions by women annually. A pan-African fiesta of inventions should flow in.

TRYING TO GET IT RIGHT THIS TIME Peace and prosperity are the hallmark of Governor Emmanuel’s administration, writes Edidiong Udobia

T

here are still a few months to complete his current tenure, yet through his purpose-driven and people-oriented leadership, Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State, has raised the excitement of the people of the state to a crescendo. Across the length and breadth of the state, people are chanting peace and prosperity, even in areas that were hitherto plagued by extreme violence. Clearly, this fever pitch is a testimonial of the new Akwa Ibom under Governor Emmanuel.

But, for the benefit of those who are oblivious of the laudable efforts and giant strides of the Udom Emmanuel administration, particularly in restoring peace and opening the state to unprecedented economic breakthrough, this piece may be timely.

In his article, “Akwa Ibom: Economic Evolution through Industralisation� in THISDAY, Lekan Babalola wrote: “Before Emmanuel Udom came into office on May 29, 2015, Akwa Ibom was rated as one of the states with the highest income inequality peaking at over 0.54 for the self-employed (predominantly farmers), and 0.44 for the employed-salary paid/wage earners, (UNDP, 2012). Akwa Ibom was also mentioned as the third state with the highest poverty rate of 27.1% within the south-south zone after Cross River State (31.2%) and Bayelsa State (32.5%). The National Bureau of Statistics reported in 2010 that Akwa Ibom State had the second highest unemployment rate of over 25.8% after Delta State in the south-south zone, but leads other states in the zone in terms of income generating opportunities.

Adebayo (2002) and Batchelder (2010) showed that, income volatility exists in some rural and urban areas.�

As bad as the economic indices of the state were before the coming of Governor Emmanuel, the biggest and most important task before the governor was unarguably security. This is because it is globally accepted that security is a key factor to the economic development of any society. Apparently, the plethora of security challenges that faced the state back then were major contributors to the state’s poor economic status. Assassinations, kidnappings, cultism, com-

munal clashes, armed robbery, human right abuses, etc., were among the prevailing crimes in the state at the time. In his inaugural speech on May 29, 2015, Governor Emmanuel, among other things, pledged to “ensure the security of lives and property of the people at all times, while adhering to the principal of the rule of law, thereby ensuring equity, justice and fair play.�

Apparently, Mr. Emmanuel’s commitment towards restoring peace in the state was seen even before he became the governor. It can be recalled that he took a major step in this regard with the disbandment of the notorious Crowd Control Unit (CCU), which had become a complete menace and tool for political thuggery. The decision was unpopular considering the fact that the group enjoyed the patronage of the political class under the guise of providing security at state government events. While the disbandment was severely criticized by those who were affected, it was a welcome development for the common people, who were the regular victims of harassment and intimidation by members of the group. Moreover, there were very strong allegations that most members of the group were involved in criminal activities like armed robbery and cultism while the group served as cover and avenue to reach and initiate other young people.

A part of a report on the Ink Newspaper of Tuesday, January 20, 2015, read, “However, it could be recalled that during the last year town hall meeting which was organized by Governor Godswill Akpabio in all the 10 federal constituencies, the CCU members had caused problems including fighting with people at every venue of the briefing. Some of the problems they caused led to loss of lives and damage of properties, a situation that caused terrible anger amongst those in government and even security operatives. Meanwhile, political observers in the state have commended Udom Emmanuel for his determination to make money for the state and also to promote Akwa Ibom economy by putting to a stop the unnecessary expenditure. They noted that although some people may not be comfortable with the determination of the PDP man to scrap or

ban the activities of the CCU, that it was a right step in the right direction as according to them, money meant for frivolities will be saved.�

Another major effort of the governor was the proscription of over 30 cult groups in the state. This unprecedented move came on the heels of incessant cult clashes in some urban cities like Uyo, the state capital, Eket, Ikot Ekpene, Oron and other local governments like Etim Ekpo, Ukanafun, Ika, etc.

Until the proscription, cultism was a single cause of the highest cases of violent deaths in the affected areas as the streets were often littered with dead bodies following clashes by rival cult groups. The state government even stepped up the fight against cultrelated violence and killings in the state by imposing curfew on some of the local governments that were severely hit. “Apart from the recent proscription of 32 cult groups in the state, the state governor, Udom Emmanuel, recently imposed curfew on Etim Ekpo and Ukanafun local government areas because of cult-related killings in the areas.

Perhaps, the most challenging insecurity issue for the governor was the full-fledged militancy in Etim Ekpo, Ukanafun, Ika and some parts of Ikot Ekpene, Essien Udim and Oruk Anam. Within the few months ugly situation thrived, many communities in the affected local governments were under serious siege by armed bandits. Lives and properties worth millions of naira were lost as many people were sacked from their homes. Many communities were almost deserted as indigenes were forced to relocate to faraway towns for safety. However, through personal intervention like holding a town hall meeting in the area with indigenes, providing relief materials to victims, granting amnesty to the perpetrators and strong collaboration with various security agencies, Governor Emmanuel successfully restored peace and calm to the area. The governor has even extended his developmental strides to the area by awarding the contract for the construction of the 15km Ikot Akpan Afaha - Ikot Oku Usung Road in Ukanafun, to Wizchino Engineering Limited.

According to the 2018 Nigerian Peace Index Report, insecurity in Akwa Ibom had significantly

reduced in recent years that the state ranked among the most peaceful states in Nigeria. A research conducted by Foundation for Peace Professionals indicated that Akwa Ibom is the most peaceful state in the South South region. With peace restored, it was much easier for prosperity to sweep across the state. Part of the indices was the ranking of Akwa Ibom as the second best state with ease of doing business by Direct Foreign Investment, last year.

In less than four years, the Governor Emmanuelled administration has built very economically viable industries and facilitated some first-of-kind manufacturing companies through the Public-Private Partnership. A few of them are, Toothpick and Pencil Factory; Jubilee Syringe Manufacturing Company; Metering Solutions Company; Fertilizer Blending Factory, etc. That further accelerates the economic development of the state that led to an agricultural revolution with the cultivation of cash crops like rice and cocoa and other strategic investment in the sector. Today, the state can boast of a rice processing factory. Besides the direct jobs that all these ventures have created for the teeming youths of the state, they also have multiplier effects on businesses. For instance, the Akwa Prime Hatchery in Uruan is partnering and supporting many poultry farmers, producers of poultry feed, etc., in order to help the hatchery meet its daily target.

Businesses are not only booming in Akwa Ibom, but also expanding. Through the Akwa Ibom Enterprise and Employment Scheme (AKEES), the government has discovered and provided necessary supports to young entrepreneurs in the state. The AKEES Industrial Park has become a fast-growing entrepreneurship hub. Even traders have benefited from several interest-free loans of the state government. With the significant reduction of crime and violence across the state, people are now giving more than a 100% to their businesses because they are assured of their security and safety. Governor Udom Emmanuel on his part is not relenting in his effort to ensure that Akwa Ibom continues to prosper in peace.

Udobia wrote from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

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T H I S D AY THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

EDITORIAL Death And The Truck Drivers Erring truck drivers should be prosecuted

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ix months after a tanker truck loaded with petrol fell and spilled its content on the Otedola Bridge axis on LagosIbadan expressway, bursting into flames and killing several motorists, a similar tragedy occurred in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State last week. The tanker, laden with Premium Motor Spirit, was heading outside the state capital when it suddenly lost balance towards the Federal Housing Estate along the Odukpani axis of the highway and fell off. Dozens were said to have rushed down to scoop the spilled product which later resulted in an explosion, leaving many burnt beyond recognition. The body count from that tragedy was still going on when another truck crashed into a market at Iworoko Ekiti, killing 15 people immediately with scores of others wounded.

While we commiserate with the families of the deceased in both Calabar and Ekiti, we need to point out that these tragedies could have been avoided by simple commonsense and inexpensive remedial interventions. It is common THE AUTHORITIES MUST knowledge that there UNEARTH THE OWNERS are too many rickety vehicles on our roads.

OF VEHICLES, NAME The tyres of several AND SHAME THEM of them are worn out; AND ENSURE THAT some are in a state COMPENSATIONS ARE of disrepair and not road worthy just PAID TO THE VICTIMS as their brakes are AND THEIR FAMILIES suspect. To worsen matters, the drivers of a good number of these trailers and tankers are most often either drunk or half asleep behind the wheels.

In recent times, we have advocated ridding the nation’s expressways, especially the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, of the nuisance of ailing petrol tankers.

Much as we appreciate the useful services rendered by

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

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. But there are things that critical stakeholders must do very quickly. First, we urge the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) across the country to be more alive to their responsibilities by ensuring that unworthy petrol tankers, trailers and heavy-duty vehicles are barred from plying our expressways, especially during the day.

It is indeed ironic that while many of the agencies that man our roads harass innocent motorists and road users, they turn a blind eye to the illegality and nuisance caused by worn-out oil tankers and heavyduty trailers that threaten the lives of road users. In addition, what is happening on most of our highways across the country is anathema to decency in road usage while this armada of trailers and petroleum tankers will be considered primitive in more civilised societies. Unfortunately, years of toeing the path of impropriety and poor infrastructure development and maintenance in the energy and other sectors are having their toll on other forms of business. That explains why we have tankers of all sorts on the roads every day with all the risks they pose to other motorists.

To compound the challenge, in the crowded field of reckless drivers in Nigeria, tanker drivers stand out.

They go on strike at the least provocation. They block the roads anytime and anywhere without a care for other road users. To therefore stop such carnage on our roads, we must begin to hold critical stakeholders in the transport sector accountable. The authorities at both the states and the federal government must unearth the owners of such vehicles, name and shame them, ensure that compensations are paid to the victims, their families and the state/federal government, and prosecute them for criminal negligence and wilful damage to public property.

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NIGERIAN GIRLS AND RITUALVULTURES

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he devil remains an unrepentant bastard.

He is filthy. He associates with the bad and the ugly, the terrible and the beast.

He gives in heaps of filth and retrieves through same conduit pipe. He seeks the dirty to feed you a disguised cake baked in the oven of hell. He is evil. And those that associate with him are even more dangerous than the king himself! For some time now our girls have been infested by the phobia designed by evil machinations in the society. This “pantophobia” has made our girls scared of putting on pants. And by “pants” in this context I mean underwear, just like the “boxers” worn by the boys. The news has gone viral how “yahoo” boys have made pants a high demanding commodity to the point that kidnaps, ambushes, and on the spot raids are carried out to forcefully collect ladies pants for rituals. Pantophobia is now real. Our girls are now scared of putting on pants!

The cravings for getting rich by any means possible have landed our society into a deep mess.

Young boys have their hearts set on shortcuts to making huge wealth without putting a pint of sweat.

They seek a life of extravaganza and lavish spending, a life of being in the spotlight and in public awe.

The devil enjoys such idiosyncrasies. That’s why he is willing to give in return for a bigger price. He is such a genius in the art of deception.

Yes you will become rich. You will be admired by all and sundry. You will command respect and

obedience in today’s world. But at what expense?

That’s the vital question only few bother to ask.

Some do actually, but don’t give a damn about the consequences. For them, it is worth dying for. It’s pathetic. But it isn’t always about self. That’s where they get it all wrong!

One, you create and sustain a psychological fear or phobia in the minds of every girl out there. So now because you want to get rich our girls should not put on pants? Our girls have to choose among the three lines of dressing properly, securing selves from rapists and, pant thieves!

Two, you toil with the destiny of that girl whose pants you were willing to get as the recipe to achieve your filth-inclined wealth. That girl is someone else’s daughter, sister, aunty, future mother (that’s if she even gets to be after being a victim). How would you feel if she were your biological child?

While these ritual vultures deserve outright condemnations, it is pertinent to draw our attention to the party that fuels such heinous practices; the society. Why? Our society has lost its values and moral standings. Societal members fail to serve as critical watchdogs over the affairs of one another. People jump to celebrate the wealth of others without throwing critical questions about the source of their wealth. Why celebrate someone that slept last night a pauper and woke up the next day a billionaire?

Ibrahim Yahaya, Suleja, Niger State

WALTER ONNOGHEN: WHO IS NEXT?

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rof. Itse Sagay did not even bother to be discreet about the fact that the Presidency wanted Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen out when he announced in the fullness of all glees that “no one is above the law.” This special counsellor to President Muhammadu Buhari on some anti-corruption-themed set-piece screamer was not troubled in the least by the backlash that greeted the attempt to arraign Justice Onnoghen on some rap about gaps found in his asset-declaration procedures, which Walter has now clarified to the media.

The media space was inundated by commentaries expressing surprise that a pro-Buhari-policy Justice of the Supreme Court, who incidentally doubles as the head honcho there, would be subjected to humiliating media trial and public ridicule (this ridicule cynicism line of reporting was the way only the Daily Trust newspaper presented this “salacious” story to its readers, who absorbed it in full gullibility whilst arguing themselves hoarse at the Minna’s central vendor stall that “a choice of appointment not approved by Baba Buhari, like Saraki as the President of the Senate, is bound to end in disaster.”

On this Sunday at that vendor’s stall, tempers almost boiled over as certain ones stood their grounds in defence of Justice Onnoghen). What can be surmised here is that Buhari does not really care about the Southeast-Southsouth region of Nigeria, what with INEC brandishing fanciful numbers of “eligible”

voters for the Northwest region and Amina Zakari staying put at that key position of the presidentialnumbers collation centre at INEC. Interesting here to note that a region that touts millions of out-of-school illiterate children has millions of obviously literate voters primed for election, really “literate” in the sense that they could read and write if they each have a permanent voter card or how does one decipher the card’s details if one cannot read?

Whatever the broth Amina is preparing next month, and if she gets away with it in the long run after a predictably raucous Atiku’s litigation, then what is happening to Walter right now would be the lot of Godswill Akpabio, Orji Uzor Kalu, Adams Oshiomole, Rotimi Amaechi, and other “strong men” from the Southeast-Southsouth region so as to strengthen the position of Prof. Sagay and also to “silence” PDP and the CUPP forum once and for all that, “the fight against corruption is not one-sided.”

After all, at the present time, iron-clad cases ready for prosecution have been built against many of these people, and that leaked audio tape would be Amaechi’s undoing.

The truth is that the so-called fight against “corruption” is truly “one-sided” if one thoroughly analyse the patterns of EFCC’s indictments and convictions, ones that are skewed to tarnish Southern Christians and some Northern Christians.

Sunday Adole Jonah, Department of Physics, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State

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T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY JANUARY 17, 2019

POLITICS

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

PERSONALITY INTERVIEW

‘I am the Most Investigated Former Governor’ In an interactive session with Nseobong Okon-Ekong, former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio throws light on a number of attacks on his reputation including the widely held notion that he switched political party allegiance from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress to escape the dragnet of the anti-graft agency Governor Udom Emmanuel, Sen. Bassey Albert and Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Onofiok Luke have acknowledged you as their leader at different times. If you have this charm, why weren’t you able to win them over when you changed political party loyalty?

It is simply because salvation is personal.

No matter how close you are to your brother, you can only do your best to convince them.

If you’re a Muslim you follow the age-long teachings of Prophet Mohammed, and of course, as a Muslim, your end will be paradise and as a Christian, your end will be heaven.

Political affairs should be voluntary. A leader may persevere but shouldn’t force a subject to follow his own line of thought. What a leader sees still baffles a lot of people, not just in Akwa Ibom, but in Nigeria. I was born into a political family and our age-long tradition in the South-south has always been alignment with the North politically. For the first time, there was a son of South-south in 2015, our former President Goodluck Jonathan, who contested, till the South-south lost the opportunity to place itself in the central politics of Nigeria. You have the South-west working together with the North; so there was need for someone to think of how to integrate the South-south into the politics of the nation, particularly as the zone that produces 90% of the wealth of the country.

That is the thinking of a leader. That does not mean that if those who are comfortable in running the state, for instance, if you are a state governor, a senator, you are this or that in your zone and you are comfortable, you don’t have to follow your leader. But your leader sees farther than you. I don’t think there was a need for me to talk to anybody, not even my family members. It was just an inspiration that I had. I am very spiritual in nature. I felt that there was a need for me to re-ignite that age long unity that has existed between the South-south people of Nigeria and the North, particularly with the coming on board, from 2015, of the South-West into the central politics. The South-west, predominantly, used to be in the opposition, even during the days of Action Group and the days of ACN. Now, under the APC, the South-west is at the centre of Nigerian politics. I don’t think it will be a good idea for the South-South to be left in the lurch. We have been left out for four years because we had a son of the soil contesting. It will be foolhardy of any leader not carry his people into the centre of politics in Nigeria. That was the reason I made up my mind, in the national interest, to join (the APC) and stabilize the polity. I felt it was not necessary to make it a compulsory thing for my followers, my brothers or my relations to follow me, but in the course of

going to hand over to the APC governor on May 2019.

Some people think one of the good things your movement from the PDP to the APC will do for Akwa Ibom is that for the first time there will be a proper election in the state; at previous elections, results were allegedly just written, as opposition was weak. In the upcoming election in the state APC and PDP will be equally matched. Do you agree?

If they say there was no election in Akwa Ibom, that results were just written, it means you have never voted since you are born and you are from there, that is the first thing.

Secondly, you mean there was dereliction of duty and you never reported it, that elections did not hold, names were just written or results written, you can see the fallacy of that. Of course, go back and look at the results of the elections, you will see some instances there were so close. We did primaries at a time in Eket, the man that defeated the incumbent, a sitting member of House of Assembly, clinched victory with only one vote. In the first local government election I did, a local government fell into the hands of ANPP. You can’t say elections in Akwa Ibom are always written. The opposition struggled, they even went to the tribunal. That assertion is wrong and one thing you need to know is that if you’re a good politician you will know that you cannot rig election where you are not popular. Such results cannot stand. If the people are in agreement that the NPN was the party they wanted and there was rigging, because no election is perfect, you will see that it will pass smoothly. If for instance, the results are always written, how come somebody cannot come from APGA and write results and announce APGA in a place like Akwa Ibom? Do you understand what I am saying? If a political party like APGA is very popular in Anambra State, PDP cannot go and write results and announce it. If you noticed, the governorship election in Anambra state has never really been won

by PDP, are you saying they don’t have the power, even when they had the power of incumbency? There presidential incumbency and Anambra that was in opposition was still winning an election. How come in Lagos, when President Obasanjo was struggling to see whether he could take South-west and turn them to PDP, he could not take Lagos State under our leader, Ahmed Bola Tinubu? It is not true that elections in Nigeria are always written. There is no perfect election. Anyone who is saying that is saying that because the person wants to underrate the prowess and political sagacity of Senator Godswill Akpabio, his ability to annex and work closely with the people in 2002 as chairman of mobilization to ensure the re-election of

Akpabio things evolving, almost 85% of those who believe in me have joined the APC. At the outset I did not really talk to anybody. I thought I was alone, then I turned around

I also left behind economic enablers, that if you were able to take one of them and then privatize or sell off 50%, you will pay off the entire debt. For instance, I built Ibom Power Plant. I completed Ibom Power Plant. People were offering me as much as USD190 million to sell 60 per cent or 70% but I refused. I said if we expand it, it will bring in a lot of revenue to the state. I also built a gas plant in conjunction with a company from the United Kingdom

and I saw up to five members of House of Assembly declaring and four House of Reps members declaring. I saw a lot of elders, in fact, one of them managed to climb the stage, a political titan from Ikono, somebody who has been doing politics from the days of Southern-Eastern State and Cross River State. He said, ‘you are a leader, you can’t go alone, we are many here, give me the microphone, give me the opportunity to let them know that you are not alone.’ I started laughing and said, ‘Chief, I never said I was alone; I only said I was moving.’

I did not say I had defected, because that is when I will need other defectors to come. I have only walked away. I am like a woman politically that has a generation behind her.

When I said, ‘I have moved’ it means that a generational group of young leaders in the North and particularly in the South-south have moved and that has created a void.

You are talking about those who are holding positions in government. You talk about the speaker and the senator, they are in a position to assess where their interest will be best served by staying with the current government of the state. It is not my intention to cripple governance in the state before election. There is no need for me to tell the people to leave the government.

They should stay in the government, so that we will still have a government in place between now and May 28, when they are

OSUN GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION TRIBUNAL UPDATE

Star Witness Takes Stand

By Our Reporter The star witness of the petitioners at the Osun State Governorship Election Tribunal sitting in Abuja, Mr. Dele Adeleke took the stand Wednesday and before commencement of cross examination by the defense counsels, pink copies of forms EC8A from most of the local government areas were tendered in evidence and received by the tribunal as exhibits in the resumed proceedings.

Meanwhile, at yesterday’s hearing, Mrs. Faith Nwadishi a staff of Centre for Transparency and Advocacy disclosed how security agents manhandled accredited observers, both foreign and local, voters, and party agents.

All the pink copies of forms EC8A tendered by the star witness as documentary evidence were finally admitted as exhibits and adopted at exactly 4:37 pm after a painstaking process of matching the original pink copies with the certified true copies.

Thereafter, lawyers for the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Alhaji Sanusi (SAN) asked the tribunal to postpone the cross examination till tomorrow (today) , due to the health of petitioners’ star witness and the normal daily scheduled time for the tribunal and the large number of petitions.

Lawyers for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Dr. Ikpeazu objected to the APC request. After serious back and forth arguments , the tribunal

chairman, Justice Mohammed Sirajo declared a 15-minute break which eventually ended after 23 minutes.

On resumption, counsel to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) questioned the witness on certain aspects of the tendered exhibits.

Likewise, the counsel of Osun State Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola and the APC took turns to cross examine, Mr. Adeleke.

The Tribunal adjourned sitting till tomorrow (today) at about 6.30pm.

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T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY JANUARY 17, 2019

POLITICS

‘I Left Akwa Ibom Far Richer Than I Met It’ Obong Victor Attah as the second executive governor of Akwa Ibom State. You want to underrate that effort, that is when you will say there was no election, but it was through mobilizing of youths, mobilizing of women through strategic campaigns to ensure the re-election of Obong Victor Attah in 2003. In 2007, 59 people contested and the exercise lasted five good days, some people slept on the streets. If there was no election in Akwa Ibom, why would there be such a very prolonged primary to the point that even the governor preferred another candidate, who despite all the intrigues still lost; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation at that time preferred another candidate but lost, even when he was at the federal level; and the governor of the state came in person to lobby delegates to ensure election of his anointed candidate and he lost. I emerged as the governorship candidate of PDP out of 57 aspirants by 2007 that wind up to one or two months between December and January. It became so hot that I ended up in the hospital many times.

I could not go home because I was afraid those powerful people who lost the election may attack me, but the populace was on the street sitting on the floor. I appreciated the people of Akwa Ibom across the state and my acceptability is across the state. If I won that election you will come and tell me that election was written, because even the incumbent did not support my election in 2007 and yet I won. I also won the election in 2011. Didn’t you hear about the struggle between the then ACN when there was a lot of tension in the state? At the end of the election, we won. We only lost in one LG and even in the LG we had almost 48 to 49%; we won in 30 of the 31 LGs. Who told you there is no election Akwa Ibom?

In 2015, we lost the presidential election 11 days before governorship election. It was not an easy task. I can tell you that many states failed like Jigawa and many other PDP states; they could not withstand the tornado of President Buhari in 2015, but Akwa Ibom won. We stood our ground and we voted for the current governor of the state, Udom Gabriel Emmanuel and I was also returned as the senator against my brother, Chief Inibehe Okorie. I polled 472,000 votes because of card reader and he had 14,000 votes. I would have had more than that because normally, we had over 700,000 registered voters in my senatorial district, which has the highest number of polling units in terms of population even more than Eket and Uyo senatorial districts. Uyo has about 900 polling units. We have about 1224 and Eket has about 800. I know these statistics as a politician, the reason I’m mentioning this to you, under normal circumstances as a former governor and someone that is looked at as the son of the soil, there is no way my people would have given me less votes than they gave my predecessor who had a lot of votes when he was going for the Senate. Former president Jonathan had a little over one million votes in 2015, the total registered number of voters is about 1.7million. So if you are writing why can’t you say let me give the president 1.6million or 1.7million votes? There is no system that is perfect, even in America you can’t have a perfect election. There will be slight issues here and there, even in any operation you try to give room for 5 to 10% mistake. On the whole, you will be insulting the current INEC Chairman and Professor Attahiru Jega if you say elections in Akwa Ibom were not fair enough; what kind of propaganda is that? It is the defeatist tendencies of those who say they will make an impact when the whole state has moved.

I did not say I defected, politicians use the word defect. I only moved in the national interest to join the current president to stabilize the party. When I say I moved, it is pregnant with meaning. It means that the entirety of those you might call the political class, those who vote, not the elite who enjoy the government because government gets a monthly allocation and the masses who know what it means for their lives to be touched when a good government is in place have moved with me. If you thought I was alone, then why did you have such massive crowd that you have never seen in the history of defection in Nigeria? It took 17 minutes to

Governors Forum and we are trying to see how we can integrate economically. Through commerce, we have been very close. Politically, we need to work on that and make conscious efforts to let of the past.

Akpabio get to the venue because of the sea of heads.

Why is the South-south always aligning with the North, is it a good thing politically? With the three major ethnic groups in Nigeria, are you saying the Northerner love the South-south more than her brothers in the East who they share some cultural affinity with? Why can’t the South-south build up an APGA or any other party for the South-east and South-south? At least, a state like Akwa Ibom used to be part of the defunct Eastern region, if it had progressed with that kind of understanding, the Southeast and the South-south would have a stronger impetus when they come to the centre to negotiate.

I think the problem of the minority has always been fear of domination, fear of becoming extinct. If you say we should join the South-east in totality to build APGA, the question is what has been the experience? I think one of the problems that people made in the past was that while we were fighting the civil war, many of the local governments in the minority areas, their names were changed, many places were renamed. So that sent a very terrible signal and historically also, you will see that Ojukwu had 12 generals, four of them were from Asaba area in the Delta region, but when the map of Biafra was drawn, it was brought out that they were making some strong in-roads in the 1960s, Asaba was missing. It was included as part of Nigeria, it was not as part of Biafra. Four

When I came back, I had an accident in 2015, I still said I must go because I was not around when I was invited. I went to the EFCC personally to ensure that I answered to the petition and I answered them. I am the most investigated former governor in Nigeria. Go to anywhere in the world, I don’t have a single house that I could sell, whether in the United Kingdom or Dubai.

Forget the contrived negative stories you hear about Godswill Akpabio

of the generals were shocked. ‘We were here fighting for Biafra and our area has been removed from the country?’ You will also recall that during one of the coups in Nigeria, the coup plotters announced that seven states had been sent out of Nigeria. I think some of these actions in the past put fear in the minds of the minority. So there is a lot of need to assuage those feelings and try to show love. That’s why they always align with the North who they believe will allow them to remain with their own ethnic identity. It is not something one can explain so easily.

Don’t forget that the Yoruba are always very monolithic in their voting. They always go together politically. The first Yoruba leader that has made good efforts to reach out to the larger Nigeria is Bola Ahmed Tinubu. For instance, if you have a presidential candidate from the minority, supported by the North, with the vice presidential candidate in the case of Goodluck Jonathan. People are likely to have more confidence. These are the various reasons and the Easterners also have this idea that during the war, the South-west should have joined them but did not join or should have declared independence but did not declare. The younger generation has a lot of work to do outside inter-ethnic marriages.

We have to reorient our people so that we can forge stronger ties between the South-east and the South-south and the South-west. I think, historically, the type of decisions taken by leaders can ultimately destroy things. When the Great Zik was going to be the leader, of government business in the South-west then, overnight you just heard the famous cross-carpeting and seven politicians stood their ground in the South-west. Overnight, things changed, the minority party became the majority on the day of forming a government.

That brought suspicion and distrust and Zik also did not like what happened to him in the South-west and moved to the South-east.

The answer is not from me. The answer is in our history. That kind of treachery has not happened between us and the North.

Look at the distrust between the South-west and South-east. Before that time, you could contest election anywhere. The first Mayor of Enugu was a Hausa man. Zik, an Igbo man won the election in the South-west. The leader of the North did something, Sardauna of Sokoto, as the leader of the North did not come to the centre to become the Prime Minister. He sent Tafawa Balewa instead. He was more interested in being the Premier of the region. Their approach to power is different in Northern Nigeria. If Zik had been picked as the leader of government business in Lagos, till today there would never have been a need for agitation for state creation.

Nigeria would have remained in a regional structure. But now we are correcting that, for example, my wife is from the South-east, through association and assimilation. We are working very closely with the governors of the South-east and leaders of the region. We even founded the South-east and South-south

Did you leave any debt in Akwa Ibom as governor?

There is no government without debt. Even the current administration of President Buhari inherited debt. The colonial masters left debt for Tafawa Balewa. When it comes to what they are speculating, it is balderdash and I am happy you asked that question. Some people say Akpabio left behind a whopping N500 billion debt, which is not true. What happened was that the total amount I collected as loan from banks was N80 billion.

It was the first N50 billion and later N30 billion and the reasons were very simple. We were struggling to get Paris Club money of over USD100 billion, if we had received that, we would have offset the N80 billion loan.

During my first term, I did not borrow N1.

It was when we started having dwindling revenue from oil; we were having zero allocation from NNPC. So when you hear, ‘Akpabio promised 31 industries but did not build any,’ it was because the money was no longer there and I was not going to build those sites. I was going make available N20 billion through the investment arm of the state every year for those four years so that people can access the money with conditions and then set up the industries.

The plan was to ensure that, at least, one person per local government was able to set up one industry, that was the way we wanted to do it and so we budgeted N20 billion, but we never touched N20 billion because the money was not there. Part of what confuses people is that they don’t know that budget is an estimate. It is not realistic, it is when the incomes come, whether through IGR or FAAC, that you have the right to budget and project, it does not mean you have spent the money and lack of funds also slowed us down in completing few of the projects we did not complete. We had over 3,000 projects completed at a time in one year. We commissioned about 1600, when people started arguing, we put it out on the internet for people to see and named the communities. We laid underground pipes to bring the menacing issue of flooding in some part of the state to an end. We built flyovers, the kind of project we had was to turn Uyo to a small Dubai. We were even planning to have a fuel depot in Uyo at the airport so that we can start flying with Emirate. That was why I started the taxiway so that when the plane, because of the large wing of the 777 could have a free ride, that was why I expanded the runway from 3.6KM to 4.2KM and brought in the best lighting system and we made sure it was in the same category with airports in London and other advanced countries. We did underground pipe drainage system, 10.8 kilometres from the stadium; this is available for everyone to see in order for the road to last and that is the secret why some of the roads we commissioned in 2009, nine years after you will not see a single porthole, that is the secret of the survival of Itam Junction that was flooded for 39 years and vehicles could not pass. That is the secret to make sure that area by the mega filling station that used to be permanently flooded during rainy season. I was privileged to see a paper from the Debt Management Office, (DMO) in 2016, the current administration when that bit of economic rush came in, when the current government started insisting that the states should comply with the government because it had just been in office for one and half years so they had also incurred their own debt. They added that to contractual indebtedness and outstanding obligation of my government and they brought it out and what they submitted to the DMO was about N147 billion in December 2016, one and half years into Governor Udom Emmanuel’s administration. The total debt profile in the state- contractual and otherwise was submitted as N157 billion. That is not what they said I left behind.

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

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FEATURES

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, Tel: 08152252325

Amnesty Programme Berths World Class Training Facility For the people of the Niger Delta and other stakeholders of the Presidential Amnesty Programme all roads will lead to Agadagba-Obon community in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State tomorrow for the unveiling of what some analysts have described as a ‘crown jewel’ in the efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari and his Special Adviser on Niger Delta, Professor Charles Dokubo to ensure that the amnesty porgramme delivers on its promise of empowerment and wealth creation for ex-agitators in the region. Segun James reports

The front view of the Oil & Gas Basic Skills Vocational Training Centre in Ondo State

S

et for unveiling and full activation for the training of ex-agitators, in the coastal community in Ondo State, is a world class Oil & Gas Basic Skills Vocational Training Centre. President Muhammadu Buhari, accompanied by the Governor of Ondo State, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, a number of Ministers and National Assembly members, are expected to perform the commissioning on Friday.

Equipped to Provide World Class Training The activation of the Oil & Gas Basic Skills Vocational Training Centre will mark another milestone in the advancement of the Amnesty Programme’s objective of engendering peace and sustainable development in the Niger Delta through the empowerment of ex-agitators with skills for viable employment. Students of the new center will get up-to-date basic training that will guarantee them employment in the lucrative oil and gas sector.

The Special Adviser on Niger Delta, Professor Charles Dokubo said in equipping the vocational centre, his vision was for an institution that will provide competitive, world class vocational education and will rank among the best of such facilities in Nigeria and in Africa. Pursuant to this goal, the Amnesty Office has already signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Petroleum Training Institute, PTI, Effurun, (which has over the years emerged as a prime centre

for training of personnel in basic skills in oil and gas operations in the country) to handle the core training components of the Amnesty Programme’s Vocational Training Centre in Agadagba-Obon.

In line with the MOU, PTI will deploy its expertise to train beneficiaries in specialised fields in the oil and gas industry, such as oil and gas drilling, instrumentation, mechanical technology, electrical technology and process technology.

The curriculum for the centre itself was designed by a United Kingdom-based firm to conform with the requirements for certification of trainees by the National Business and Technical Examination Board (NABTEB). Thus, at the end of their training, beneficiaries would be awarded certificates endorsed by NABTEB. It was gathered that about 200 ex-agitators have been screened to begin training at the

In equipping the vocational centre, his vision was for an institution that will provide competitive, world class vocational education and will rank among the best of such facilities in Nigeria and in Africa

centre after its activation on January 18. Also, the Amnesty Office has made arrangements for accommodation facilities for the trainees and their trainers in Agadagba to ensure that the training at the centre takes off without much hiccup. To further ensure that the centre is managed in a professional manner, it was learnt that the Amnesty Office has secured the services of a seasoned person from the academia to handle the day-to-day administration of the facility as the rector.

Accomplishing a Mission For Dokubo, the activation of the Agadagba Vocational Centre would be another huge step forward in his bid to fast-track the reintegration stage of the Amnesty Programme since his appointment in March last year.

On assumption of office, the former Director of Research at the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs was confronted with the fact that over 10,000 of 30,000 agitators who embraced the amnesty programme since 2009 were yet to be trained in vocational skills or deployed for formal education, contrary to the promise made to them when they were persuaded to abandon militancy and leave the creeks of the Niger Delta.

Indeed, top among the complaints he received from the interactive sessions he held with leaders of the ex-agitators and other stakeholders in Niger Delta soon after he assumed office was about the large number of beneficiaries of Amnesty

Programme still waiting to be deployed for training.

Aside the Agadagba-Obon centre which is now scheduled for activation this Friday, the other uncompleted vocational centres inherited by Dokubo are located in Kaiama, New Boro Town (Bayelsa State); Obuama, Harry’s Town (Rivers State); Gelegele (Edo State) and Bomadi (Delta State).

There is no doubt that the completion of the Vocational Training Centres would remarkably help to reduce the huge amount of money being spent to train beneficiaries of the Amnesty programme in and outside the country. Dokubo is convinced that the speedy completion and activation of the vocational training centres will help accelerate the training and reintegration of ex-agitators into the society and help accelerate socio-economic development of the oil producing region.

"For me, I reckon that the fastest way of achieving accelerated training for the several ex-agitators waiting to be trained and save costs at the same time is to speedily complete and promptly activate the five training centres currently under construction across five states in the Niger Delta,� Dokubo said in a media chat.

The Vocational Training Centres in Kaiama and Bomadi are also at the verge of being commissioned and activated for training in the first quarter of this year.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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FEATURES

The fully-equipped computer room

Some of the equipment in the centre

More equipment for skills acquistion

Matching Training with Jobs The presidential aide has also repeatedly assured that beneficiary of the training programmes at the centre will be matched with employment opportunities at the end of their training. “Trained to work, not trained to go and take stipends. That is what I am trying to do. Once we can create that synergy between training and work placement, I think we are going to sing a new song and dance a new dance, and that is what I am going to do. I don’t want to train people and they will go back and be expecting N65, 000 as stipend from government every month,� Dokubo said.

Encomiums for Buhari The coordinator also applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for the support of his

administration for the Amnesty Programme and the actualisation of the programme's projects and initiatives for the benefit of the people

There is no doubt that the completion of the Vocational Training Centres would remarkably help to reduce the huge amount of money being spent to train beneďŹ ciaries of the amnesty programme in and outside the country

of the Niger Delta.

Speaking to reporters during his Yuletide’s vacation in his community, Abonema in Akuku Toru local government area of Rivers State, Dokubo said Buhari deserves commendation and support for not bowing to pressure to scrap the Amnesty Programme as some people told him to do when he assumed office. “There was advice by some persons that the Presidential Amnesty Programme should be terminated as it was an ad hoc programme, but the president insisted that the programme should go on. Government has done a lot to sustain the programme.

President Buhari is not relenting at all in his support for the Programme� the Amnesty Programme’s Coordinator said.

He noted that thousands of Niger Delta

youths have benefited from the Presidential Amnesty Programme’s scholarships, vocational training as well as empowerment initiatives since inception.

He cited the continuing distribution of entrepreneurs’ starter packs to trained ex-agitators and youths across States in the Niger Delta as example of such benefits. “The Amnesty Programme has improved the lives of the people of the region especially the youths. With the type of Vocational Training Centres that have now been developed in Agadagba, Kaiama and other places, I strongly believe that the next level the president is bringing, which I know will come, will even be better for this programme�, Dokubo said while appealing to Niger Deltans to support the reelection of the President in 2019.

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Photo Editor ĂŒĂ“Ă™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă˜ ÔËÖË Email Ă‹ĂŒĂ“Ă™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă˜Ë›Ă‹Ă”Ă‹Ă–Ă‹ĚśĂžĂ’Ă“Ă?ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ–Ă“Ă Ă?Ë›Ă?Ù×

L-R: Chief Customer OďŹƒcer, MultiChoice Nigeria, Martin Mabutho,; Channel Director, Africa Magic channels, Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu; Senior Marketing Manager, Bet9ja, Olufemi Osobajo and , Executive Head, Content MultiChoice Nigeria, Busola Tejumola during the media brieďŹ ng on Big Brother Naija Season 4 announcement in Lagos...recently Abiodun Ajala

L-R; Founder, Nguni Handbags, Amanda Bekker; CEO/Managing Director MASQE Fine Art, Akinwumi Osunkoya and Noble Hill Wine Consultant Claire Calder at the Fine art, photography exhibition titled MASQUÉ held in Abuja...recently

PDP Vice President Candidate,, Peter Obi [middle] and Governorship Cadidate, Jimi Agbaje at the mini-rally held for Atiku-Obi presidential bid at Festac Town, Lagos...recently

Gubernatorial Candidate of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos,Jimi Agbaje; his deputy candidate, Haleemat Yemisi Busari and, President, Muslim Community of Lagos State (MCLS), Alhaji G.O. Gbadamosi, during an interactive session with the Muslim community in Lagos..recently

L-R: Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi; General OďŹƒcer Commanding, 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Maj.-Gen. Fidelis Azinta; Commander, 671 Nigerian Air Force Detachment, Ibadan, Air Comm. Razaq Shittu; and Commissioner of Police at the state Command, Mr Abiodun Odude, during the grand ďŹ nale of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, held at the Remembrance Arcade, Agodi, Ibadan...recently

Kwara State Governor, Dr Abdulfatah Ahmed[right] addressing some women during a solidarity rally to Government House, Ilorin..... recently

L-R: Secretary, Motormechs and Technicians Association of Nigeria (MOMTAN), Abiodun Olorunsaye; State Chairman, Alhaji Moroof Arowolo; All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship Candidate, in Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and his Running Mate, Dr. Kadir Obafemi Hamzat, during a learn assistant workshop with Lagos Motor Mechanics, Tagged: “Try My Jobâ€? by Mr. SanwoOlu at Oba Ogunji Mechanics Village, Agege, Lagos‌recently

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Ă&#x;Ă—Ă“Ă‹ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă‹Ă˜Ă˜Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă–Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă’ Ă™Ă? Ă“ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ‹Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă? ÞËÑÑĂ?ĂŽ ËŠ Ă Ă?ĂœĂŁĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă&#x;Ă?Ăž Ă™ËŞËœ ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂ‘Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă‹Ăž ĂŒĂ™Ă™Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ‹Ă‘Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ ĂŁĂ?Ă‹Ăœ Ă?Ă’Ă™ĂšĂšĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă—Ă™Ă˜Ă‘ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜Ă? Ă‹Ă? ĂĄĂ?Ă–Ă– Ă‹Ă? Ă’Ă?Ă–Ăš ÞÒĂ?Ă— Ă?Ă‹Ă Ă? Ă—Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂŁ Ă™Ă˜ Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁ Ă?Ă’Ă™ĂšĂšĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ë› Ă’Ă? Ă?Ă‹ĂŽ Ă™Ă? Ă˜Ă‘Ă‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă‹ĂœĂ•Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă&#x;Ă—Ă“Ă‹ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ëœ Ă–Ă‹Ă—Ă“ĂŽĂ? Ă—Ă™Ă?Ă&#x; ĂĄĂ’Ă™ Ă‹Ă˜Ă˜Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂ–Ă‹Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜ Ă‹ Ă?ÞËÞĂ?Ă—Ă?Ă˜ĂžËœ Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă—ĂšĂ‹Ă“Ă‘Ă˜ ĂĄĂ™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ ĂœĂ&#x;Ă˜ Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁ ͯͲÞÒ ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁ ͹ͯĂ?ĂžËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡˛ Ă—Ă™Ă?Ă&#x; Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ Ă?ÞËÞĂ?ĂŽ ÞÒËÞ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?ÞÙ×Ă?ĂœĂ? ĂĄĂ’Ă™ Ă?ÒÙÚ Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă&#x;Ă—Ă“Ă‹ ÚÚ ĂĄĂ™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ Ă?Ă˜Ă”Ă™ĂŁ ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ăž ĂšĂœĂ“Ă?Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă˜ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍś ĂŒĂ?Ă?ĂžĂ?Ă?Ă–Ă–Ă?ĂœĂ?Ëœ Ùà Ă?Ăœ ͳ͎ ĂšĂ?Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă?Ă? ĂŽĂ‹Ă“Ă–ĂŁ Ă—Ă?Ă‘Ă‹ Ă?Ă–Ă‹Ă?Ă’ Ă?Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă—Ă™Ă&#x;ÞÒ̋åËÞĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂŽĂ“Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžĂ? Ă™Ă˜ Ă‹Ă–Ă– Ă–Ă‹Ă?Ăž ÚÓĂ?Ă?Ă? Ă“ĂžĂ?Ă—Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă&#x;Ăš ÞÙ Í°Íł ĂšĂ?Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă˜ ĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă“Ăœ Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ?Ëœ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ëœ Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă—Ă&#x;Ă?Ă’ Ă—Ă™ĂœĂ?Ë› ËŤ Ă’Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă?ÞÓà Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă™Ă˜ Ă“Ă? ĂĄĂ“Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă&#x;Ăš Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹Ă˜Ă? Ă’Ă‹Ă Ă? Ă?ĂšĂ?Ă˜Ăž Ă‹ ÖÙÞ Ă™Ă? Ă—Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂŁ ÞÙ Ă’Ă‹Ă Ă? Ă‹ Ă—Ă?Ă—Ă™ĂœĂ‹ĂŒĂ–Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă?ĂŒĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ë› Ă&#x;Ă? ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă?ĂšĂ?Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ëœ Ă‹ Ă?Ă“Ă‘Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă?Ă‹Ă˜Ăž Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă— Ă—Ă‹ĂŁ ÚÙĂ?ĂžĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ Ă?Ă’Ă™ĂšĂšĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ?ĂœË› ËŤ ÙåĂ?Ă Ă?ĂœËœ åÓÞÒ ÞÒĂ? Ă&#x;Ă—Ă“Ă‹ Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ‹Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂŁĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂŽĂ“Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžËœ ĂĄĂ? ĂŒĂ?Ă–Ă“Ă?Ă Ă? ÞÒËÞ Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ ĂŒĂ? Ă‹ ÞÓ×Ă? ÞÙ Ă?ÒÙÚ åÓÞÒÙĂ&#x;Ăž ĂŒĂ&#x;ĂœĂ˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹ ÒÙÖĂ? Ă“Ă˜ ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x;Ăœ ÚÙĂ?Ă•Ă?ĂžËœËŹ Ă?Ă’Ă? Ă‹ĂŽĂŽĂ?ĂŽË›

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2019 MARKET OUTLOOK

L–R: Acting Head, Listing Business Division, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Tony Ibeziako; Chief Executive Officer, Oscar Onyema and Executive Director, Regulation, Tinuade Awe, during the 2018 market recap and outlook for 2019, held in Lagos...recently PHOTO: DAN UKANA

Stakeholders Fret over 9mobile Imbroglio Stories by Emma Okonji Telecoms stakeholders have expressed concern over the recent withdrawal of Teleology Holdings Limited from the 9mobile acquisition deal.

They are worried that the sudden withdrawal could worsen the operational conditions of 9mobile, whose subscriber base has dropped from 22 million in 2016, to 16 million in 2018, since the beginning of the financial crisis that rocked the telecoms company in 2017, when its creditors threatened to takeover the company over its inability to continue the repayment of the $1.2 billion loan it took from 13 local banks in 2013.

The stakeholders called for speedy intervention that would address the issue before

TELECOM it escalates.

Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, who reacted to the withdrawal of Teleology Holdings via a telephone conversation with THISDAY, said the pull-out from the deal, could create a serious setback for 9mobile that has made some progress since the commencement of the acquisition plan. He called on all the shareholders from Teleology Holdings and Teleology Nigeria to address their differences in the best interest of the Nigerian telecoms industry.

Similarly, the President of the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Olusola Teniola, who also

expressed worries over the exit of Teleology Holdings, said: “The implication is that 9mobile will begin all over again to look for a technical partner and financier that are willing to invest in 9mobile, since NCC had insisted on a competent technical partner and a financially stable operator to take over 9mobile.�

Industry stakeholders are of the view that 9mobile’s prolonged recovery may be prolonged even further with the withdrawal of Teleology Holdings from the organisation. “Indeed, the recovery may be a mirage judging by last week’s reported exit of Teleology Holdings from the 9mobile project,� one of the stakeholders told THISDAY. The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar

SDNbucks Selects Nokia Network

Garba Danbatta had on Monday, revealed the intention of commission on how it will intervene in the issue between Teleology Holdings Limited and Teleology Nigeria, in order to protect the interest of investors and subscribers, even though he said the issue has not been officially brought to NCC’s table for mediation.

While Teleology Holdings is accusing Teleology Nigeria of declining to execute a management services contract for the full acquisition of 9mobile, Teleology Nigeria is equally accusing Teleology Holdings of not meeting its obligations in the entire 9mobile acquisition process, even though it owned a minority stake of 13 per cent in Teleology Nigeria Limited.

Continued on page 24

Report Predicts Rise in Global IoT Connectivity in 2019 A recent survey conducted by Mobile World Live has predicted sudden surge in global Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity in 2019.

The survey yielded insights into industry awareness of the technology and the expected pace of uptake, as well as what issues needed to be resolved to facilitate widespread adoption and what benefits companies are expected to reap from implementation of IoT. The GSM Association (GSMA) had also predicted that IoT connectivity would continue to grow to reach 25 billion by 2025.

Although the adoption rate of IoT was minimal a few years

TELECOM ago, the report said the IoT market remained in the midst of an exponential growth spurt.

GSMA Intelligence noted there were 6.3 billion IoT connections in 2016, a figure it predicted will skyrocket to 25 billion by 2025.

With more devices on the network, centralised processing becomes more cumbersome.

However, IoT Edge technology uses capable devices and gateways to push functionality, including device integration and management, data collection and processing, and analytics, to the outer reaches of the network.

Moving storage and processing

of data to the edge increases device reliability and reduces the need for costly data transport to a central processing centre, the report said, while assessing industry familiarity with and interest in this technology, as well as expected deployment timelines, applications and benefits. It also identified key pain points the industry will address before the IoT technology proliferates.

According to the online survey, 20 per cent of the respondents were from a hardware vendor, 14 per cent were from a software vendora, 9 per cent were from a tier one telecoms operator, 5 per cent were from a tier two

Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă‘ Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?ÙÖÎĂ?ĂŽ ĂšĂ–Ă‹Ă˜Ă? ÞÙ ĂœĂ?Ă–Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă? Ă‹ ĂŒĂ&#x;ĂŽĂ‘Ă?Ăž Ă?Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂžĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă–Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ě‹Ă&#x;Ăš Ă“Ă˜ Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă‹ Ă‹Ă? Ă“Ăž Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă•Ă? ÞÙ Ă?Ă–Ă‹ĂĄ ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă• Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂ•Ă?Ăž Ă?Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ă–Ă™Ă?Ăž ÞÙ Ă’Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? ĂœĂ“Ă Ă‹Ă–Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂ•Ă?Þ˛ Ă?Ă‹ĂŽ Ă™Ă? Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă‘ËŞĂ? Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ Ă—Ă™ĂŒĂ“Ă–Ă? ĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă? ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă?Ă“Ă— Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ă“Ëœ ÞÙÖÎ Ă?Ă&#x;ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ? ÞÒĂ? Ă Ă?Ă˜ĂŽĂ™Ăœ ĂĄĂ™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ Ă–Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă’ ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ Ě‹ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă? ĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă˜ Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă‹ Ă‹Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă˜ĂŽ Ă™Ă? Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁ ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ Ă“ĂžĂ? Ă™ĂĄĂ˜ ĂĄĂ?ĂŒĂ?Ă“ĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă—Ă‹Ă¤Ă™Ă˜ËŞĂ? Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă‹Ă– ÙÚĂ?ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ë› Ă’Ă“Ă–Ă? Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă˜Ă–ĂŁ Ă‹Ă“Ă—Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹Ăž Ă?Ă’Ă™ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă&#x;Ăš Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă‘ËŞĂ? ÚÙĂ?Ă“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜ Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă‹Ëœ ÞÒĂ?Ă?Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă? ĂĄĂ™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ ĂŒĂ? Ă–Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă’Ă?ĂŽ Ă‘Ă–Ă™ĂŒĂ‹Ă–Ă–ĂŁ Ă?Ă™Ă–Ă–Ă™ĂĄĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ ĂŽĂ?ĂŒĂ&#x;Ăž Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžĂœĂŁË› Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ă“Ëœ Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽ ĂšĂœĂ“Ă?Ă?Ă? ĂĄĂ™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ ĂœĂ‹Ă˜Ă‘Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— Ă–Ă?Ă?Ă? ĂžĂ’Ă‹Ă˜ ÍœÍŻÍ˛ÍŻ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? ×ÙÎĂ?Ă–Ă? ĂĄĂ™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ăœ Ă’Ă“Ă‘Ă’Ě‹Ă?Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă–Ă&#x;ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă›Ă&#x;Ă“Ă?Ă• Ă?Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂ‘Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂžĂ?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘Ă“Ă?Ă?Ë› Ă“Ă‘Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă–ĂŁĂ? Ă?ÒÙåĂ?ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă Ă?Ă˜ĂŽĂ™Ăœ ĂžĂ&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă?ĂŽ åÓÞÒ Ă’Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă? ĂœĂ“Ă Ă‹Ă– ÓËÙ×Ó Ă?Ă™Ăœ ÞÒĂ? ÞÙÚ Ă?ÚÙÞ Ă“Ă˜ Ă˜ĂŽĂ“Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂžĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă?ÒÓÚ×Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ? ĂŽĂ&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒĂ? ÙÚĂ?Ă˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă’Ă‹Ă–Ă? Ă™Ă? Ͱ͎ͯ͜˛ Ă&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍśËœ Ă“Ăž ÙÚĂ?Ă˜Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹ Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ Ă—Ă™ĂŒĂ“Ă–Ă? Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă?Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂšĂ–Ă‹Ă˜Ăž Ă˜Ă?Ă‹Ăœ Ă?ËÚÓÞËÖ Ă?ĂĄ Ă?Ă–Ă’Ă“Ëœ Ă‹Ă? ĂĄĂ?Ă–Ă– Ă‹Ă? Ă“ĂžĂ? ĂŒĂ“Ă‘Ă‘Ă?Ă?Ăž Ă‘Ă–Ă™ĂŒĂ‹Ă– Ă—Ă™ĂŒĂ“Ă–Ă? ĂšĂ’Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ?Ë› Ăž Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂœĂ?Ă˜ĂžĂ–ĂŁ Ă’Ă‹Ă? Í°ÍłÍŽËœÍŽÍŽÍŽ ĂœĂ?ÞËÓÖ Ă™Ă&#x;ÞÖĂ?ĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ͱ˜͎͎͎ Ă?ĂžĂ™ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžĂœĂŁË›

telecoms operator and 3 per cent were from a mobile virtual network operator. The remaining 48 per cent of respondents were from other sectors within the mobile ecosystem.

From the main group respondents, 48 per cent were from organisations with their headquarters in Europe. An additional 26 per cent were from North America, 9 per cent from East Asia, 5 per cent from Africa, 4 per cent from South East Asia, 3 per cent from South America and 2 per cent from South West Asia. “As the wireless industry Continued on page 24

ÙÕÓË Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă‹Ă˜Ă˜Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ÞÒËÞ Ă“ĂžĂ? Ă&#x;Ă‹Ă‘Ă? Ă?ĂžĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ•Ă? Ě‹ Ͱ˛͎ Ă?ÙÖĂ&#x;ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă’Ă‹Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă˜ Ă?Ă’Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă˜ ĂŒĂŁ Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă‘Ă?ĂŽ Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ Ă“Ă?Ă? ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă“ĂŽĂ?ĂœËœ ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă?Ă•Ă?Ëœ ÞÙ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă“ĂŽĂ? Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–Ă–ĂŁ Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ě‹ Ă‹Ă‘Ă?ĂŽ Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă˜Ă?Ă?ÞÓà ÓÞã Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă?Ă“ ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ?Ëœ Ă‹ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă?ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ? ÎËÞË Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ă–Ă–Ă“Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂŁ Ă?Ă™Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă™Ă˜ Ă&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹ĂŽĂ Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ĂŽĂ?Ă?Ăš Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ù×ÚĂ&#x;ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ă Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ ĂžĂ?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘Ă“Ă?Ă? ÞÙ Ă“Ă—ĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă? ĂšĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă?ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă˜ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă’ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă?âÚĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ë› Ă’Ă? Ě‹ Ͱ˛͎ Ă?ÙÖĂ&#x;ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ?Ă™Ă˜Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ? Ă?ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ? Ă?ÞËÎÓĂ&#x;Ă—Ă?Ëœ ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ?Ă’ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÎËÞË Ă?Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂœĂ?Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă–Ă™Ă&#x;ĂŽĚ‹ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ËÚÚÖÓĂ?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă˜Ă‘Ă“Ă˜Ă? Ă’Ă™Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă™Ă˜ ÙÙÑÖĂ? Ă–Ă™Ă&#x;ĂŽ Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă™ĂœĂ— Ě™ ̚˛ Ă’Ă? Ă?Ă“ ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ? ĂœĂ?ËÖ̋ÞÓ×Ă? Ă?ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ? ÎËÞË Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ă–Ă–Ă“Ă‘Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă˜Ă‘Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă–Ă– Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă?Ëœ ÑËÞÒĂ?ĂœĂ?Ëœ Ă‹Ă˜Ă‹Ă–ĂŁĂ¤Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ? Ă™Ă˜Ě‹ĂžĂ’Ă?̋ÚÓÞĂ?Ă’ ÎËÞ˲ Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ă™ Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂŽĂ? Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— Ă–Ă“Ă Ă? Ă‘Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă–Ă– Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă? Ă–Ă?Ă Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă‘Ă?Ă? Ă?Ù×ÚĂ&#x;ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ă Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ ĂžĂ?Ă?Ă’Ă˜Ă™Ă–Ă™Ă‘Ă“Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹ĂŽĂ Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ĂŽĂ?Ă?Ăš Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă–Ă‘Ă™ĂœĂ“ĂžĂ’Ă—Ă? ÞÙ Ă?Ă Ă‹Ă–Ă&#x;Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂœĂ?ĂšĂ™ĂœĂž ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂ?ĂœĂ?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? ÚÖËãĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă“Ă˜ ĂœĂ?ËÖ̋ÞÓ×Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă˜ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă’ ËÚÚÖÓĂ?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ĂŒĂŁ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă–Ă&#x;ĂŒĂ?Ëœ ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă?ĂŽĂ“Ă‹ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ë› Ă? ĂšĂ‹ĂœĂž Ă™Ă? Ă“ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ Ă“Ă?Ă? ÞÙ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă?Ăœ Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă‹Ă˜Ă“Ă¤Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă–Ă– Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă? Ă?ËÚÞĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă–Ă“Ă Ă? Ă’Ă“Ă‘Ă’Ě‹ĂŽĂ?Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ă™ Ă?ÙÙÞËÑĂ? Ă&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă—Ă&#x;ÖÞÓÚÖĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă—Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă? Ă?Ă“ĂžĂ&#x;Ă‹ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă‹ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹ Ă?ÞËÎÓĂ&#x;Ă—Ëœ ĂžĂœĂ‹Ă?Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ×Ùà Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă– ÚÖËãĂ?ĂœĂ?Ëœ ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂ‹Ă–Ă– Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ë›

Dry Season to Impact Cocoa

ĂœĂŁ ĂĄĂ?ËÞÒĂ?Ăœ Ă“Ă˜ Ă—Ă™Ă?Ăž Ă™Ă? Ă Ă™ĂœĂŁ ÙËĂ?Þ˪Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă?Ă™Ă‹Ě‹Ă‘ĂœĂ™ĂĄĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂœĂ?Ă‘Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă–Ă‹Ă?Ăž ĂĄĂ?Ă?Ă• Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ Ă’Ă“Ă˜ĂŽĂ?Ăœ ÞÒĂ? ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ×Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂœĂ“Ă–Ě‹ĂžĂ™Ě‹ Ă?ÚÞĂ?Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ Ă—Ă“ĂŽĚ‹Ă?ĂœĂ™ĂšËœ Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ—Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă’Ă‹Ă Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽË› Ă’Ă? ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ–ĂŽËŞĂ? ÞÙÚ Ă?Ă™Ă?ÙË ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ă?Ăœ Ă“Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ăž Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂŽĂœĂŁ Ă?Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ëœ ĂĄĂ’Ă“Ă?Ă’ ĂœĂ&#x;Ă˜Ă? Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— Ùà Ă?Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ ÞÙ Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă?ĂŒĂœĂ&#x;Ă‹ĂœĂŁË› Ă‹ĂœĂ—Ă‹ĂžĂžĂ‹Ă˜ ĂĄĂ“Ă˜ĂŽĂ? Ă?ĂĄĂ?Ă?Ăš Ă“Ă˜ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— ÞÒĂ? Ă‹Ă’Ă‹ĂœĂ‹Ëœ ĂĄĂ’Ă“Ă?Ă’ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ ĂœĂ‹Ă Ă‹Ă‘Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă?ÙË ÚÙÎĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă‹Ăš Ă?ÙÓÖ ×ÙÓĂ?ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ëœ Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÙ Ă?Ă—Ă‹Ă–Ă–Ă?Ăœ ĂŒĂ?Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ë› Ă?Ă?Ă™ĂœĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÙ Ă?Ă&#x;ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ?Ëœ Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ—Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă‹ĂœĂ—Ă‹ĂžĂžĂ‹Ă˜ ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă—Ă“Ă–ĂŽ ÞÒÓĂ? ĂĄĂ?Ă?Ă• Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÞÒËÞ ÞÒĂ?ĂœĂ? ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă—Ă‹Ă˜ĂŁ Ă?ÖÙåĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÚÙÎĂ? Ă™Ă˜ ĂžĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ë› Ă’Ă?ĂŁ Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽ Ă’Ă“Ă‘Ă’ Ă?ÙÓÖ ×ÙÓĂ?ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ă˜Ăž ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?ĂžĂ‹Ă“Ă˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂžĂœĂ?Ă?Ă? ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ ÞÒĂ? ĂŽĂœĂŁ Ă?Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ëœ ĂŒĂ&#x;Ăž Ă—Ă™ĂœĂ? ĂœĂ‹Ă“Ă˜ ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽĂ?ĂŽ ÞÙ Ă’Ă?Ă–Ăš ÞÒĂ? Ă—Ă“ĂŽĚ‹Ă?ĂœĂ™Ăš ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ˛ Ă&#x;ÚÚÖã Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă?Ă’ Ă’Ă‹ĂŽ Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂžĂ?ĂŽ ÞÙ ĂŽĂœĂ™ĂšËœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă‹ĂœĂ—Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă‹ĂŽĂŽĂ?ĂŽË›

“Most of our baking initiatives are technology based, which have helped to bring down the cost of banking and to provide customers with varieties of digital services that have impacted positively on their banking lifestyles and businesses�

Head, Digital Services, Diamond Bank,

Mr. Nnamdi Anionwu

24

T H I S D AY Ëž ÍŻÍľËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

STAKEHOLDERS FRET OVER 9MOBILE IMBROGLIO The accusation and counteraccusation breed mistrust among both parties, which eventually led to the pullout of Teleology Holdings from the telecoms business deal.

Giving the scenario of the once vibrant Nigeria’s national telecoms carrier, NITEL, which technically went under as a result of improper management on the side of government before it was eventually sold out to NATCOM, trading as ntel, stakeholders have called for caution in handling the 9mobile imbroglio.

Danbatta, said the commission had already made some moves to address the situation in the interest of 9mobile subscribers and the telecoms industry.

REPORT PREDICTS RISE IN GLOBAL IOT CONNECTIVITY IN 2019 moves toward 5G, mobile providers are gravitating toward distributed architectures, which can push computing tasks normally processed in a centralised location or the cloud to the edge of the network.

IoT Edge technology applies a similar principle but to the information, relying on connected devices to move various functionalities closer to the points of the network where data is generated. Using an IoT Edge setup, device integration and management, data processing and analytics, and decision making can all be handled at or very near the information-generating end points,� the report said.

Though survey respondents seemed eager to take up IoT Edge technology, they flagged a number of concerns and priorities which needed to be addressed before deployments move forward, the report said. It listed the concerns and priorities to include reliability (12 per cent), cost and ecosystem development (11 per cent each). However, security topped the list with 51 per cent of respondents naming it as the primary issue the industry needs to tackle in order to facilitate widespread adoption.

Survey respondents’ demand for integrated security was also addressed by the GSMA guidelines, which highlighted the role of embedded SIM technology in securing devices and enhancing identity management.

‘Absence of Framework for Forensic Auditing Portends Danger for Financial System’ Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Chartered Institute of Forensic and Investigative Auditors of Nigeria (CIFIAN), has said the absence of appropriate legal framework for the regulation of forensic and investigative auditing in Nigeria portends a great danger to the integrity of the Nigerian financial system.

The Pro-tem President, Dr. Enape Ayishetu, said CIFIAN Bill which was passed by the Senate since 5th July, 2018, was being unnecessary delayed by the House of Representatives for the past seven months.

She clarified that CIFIAN was neither an accountancy body nor was it coming as a duplicate or triplicate of existing accountancy bodies in Nigeria.

Ayishetu, stressed that the primary domain of forensic and investigative auditing is to work within the legislative process from the scene of fraud to the court, providing information and evidence for administration of justice; and to ensure that courts are presented with the best evidence and reliable witnesses.

According to her, “The absence of the appropriate legal framework for the regulation of forensic and investigative

auditing practice in Nigeria portent great danger to the integrity and safety of the Nigerian financial system. “The noticeable consequence

of such lacuna is that Nigeria currently spends hundreds of millions of her scarce foreign exchange to hire forensic experts to investigate corporate fraud

“To avoid quack practice in forensic audit and investigations in future, we hereby call on the House of Representatives to CIFIAN bill based on its

merit by giving a possible concurrence to it just as it was done by the Senate, and posterity will remember you for doing that.�

REWARDING CUSTOMER LOYALTY

Group Executive, Digital & Consumer Banking, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Anant Rao; OďŹƒcer, Consumer Protection Council (CPC), Abideen Onifade; Executive Director, UBA Plc, Liadi Ayoku; Regional Head Lagos, Aminat Tunji-Akinwande; Head, Retail Liabilities, Tomiwa Sotiloye and Marketing Monitoring and Enforcement OďŹƒcer, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Nwanneka Ezeani, at the ďŹ rst quarter draw of the ‘UBA Wise Savers’ promo held in Lagos‌recently

‘NigeriaYet to Harness Gains of Online Travel Booking’ Emma Okonji A travel and tour expert, Mr. Kingsley Alaribe, has said the economic prosperity inherent in travel and tourism are yet to be unlocked in Nigeria, owing predominantly to the vacuum in the online travel booking space.

According to recent statistics, only a small proportion of about 13 per cent of Nigerian air travellers currently book travel products online, describing it as a damning statistics for a country boasting a population grossing over 190 million.

He listed the four components of the travel and tourism sector to include leisure travel (inbound and domestic), business travel, domestic travel and foreign travel, but stressed that the outlook remained the same, as total contribution of the sector to GDP is nearly three times greater than its direct contribution.

Aligned to this, according to

him, was the poor experience of most Nigerians, many of whom have expressed their dissatisfaction with the level of service in the online travel booking space, despite the existence of a glut of players. “For many corporate travellers, a segment that represents the overwhelming majority of online travel service consumers, the prevailing opinion is a glaring lack of real value.

Same sentiment dominates among leisure travellers – many of whom are frustrated by sub-standard service and the limited choices of packages/offers available among current players –two of the most recurring pain-points that have drained confidence among customers in the sector,�

Alaribe said.

According to him, “Considering the nexus between technology and value-offerings in the online travel booking space, there is a growing need for a strong player backed by cutting-edge

technology to fill the vacuum in the sector and take the industry to the next level. “Further justifying this need is the undoubted influence of a world-class online platform and innovation in service delivery which has transformed the entire value chain of an allied sector such as e-Commerce in Nigeria, as seen in the rise and dominance of strong local players such as Konga which has re-defined the scope of offerings and customer experience in the industry.�

The global travel and tourism industry is a multi-billion-dollar establishment which relies heavily on innovative technology and world-class customer experience in delivering a wide range of value offerings to all classes of travellers.

Nigeria is due for this disruption which has the potential of growing the sector’s contribution to GDP, he said.

Looking at the current statistics in Nigeria’s travel and

tourism industry, he said the industry remained in a state of near-misses and failed projections occasioned by the glaring gap and huge vacuum in the online travel booking space.

According to available statistics, the direct contribution of Travel and Tourism to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was N2,29 billion, approximately 1.9 per cent of total GDP in 2017 – a figure that is expected to rise by 2.9 per cent in 2018 and 4.3 per cent per annum from 2018-2028, to N3,605.7 billion effectively representing 1.9 per cent of total GDP in 2028.

On the other hand, the total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP was N6,205.8 billion, representing 5.1 per cent of GDP in 2017 and is forecast to rise by 1.6 per cent in 2018 and 4.8 per cent per annum to N10,094.5 billion from 2018-2018, representing 5.4 per cent of GDP in 2028.

Alaribe, said while the

figures appeared promising, it was worth considering where the Nigerian travel industry stands in the global scheme of things.

Ranked on a global list of 185 countries, Nigeria presently stands at positions 48 in total contribution and 163 in relative contribution respectively to GDP from the Travel and Tourism sector. In terms of expected real growth in the sector, Nigeria stands at a poorly 168 position and 59 in long-term growth forecast (2018-2028) in the sector.

Compared with global indices, Travel and Tourism represents 10.4 per cent of global GDP while one-tenth of jobs worldwide are supported by the industry, representing 9.9 per cent of global employment.

He said “It is an open secret that travel and tourism is an important global economic activity, with the potential to contribute significantly to a nation’s GDP.�

Group Business Editor

How Digital Tools Can Transform Mental Healthcare

Capital Market Editor

Emma Okonji

Obinna Chima Goddy Egene

AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

Ă™Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ’Ă‹Ă˜ äĂ?

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Senior Correspondent

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

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

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

Technology experts have introduced new measures on how to use digital technology tools to transform mental healthcare.

According to them, the global burden of mental illness, both in terms of human suffering and economic loss, was catastrophic and rapidly growing.

Forward-thinking members of the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Neurotechnologies recently convened to explore the many ways that rapid advances in

telecommunications, big data analytics, including machine learning, mobile technologies and biosensors – loosely grouped together under the umbrella term “digital technologies� – are poised to have a profound impact on diverse aspects of mental healthcare and treatment, the report stated. “Worldwide, mental health conditions affect more than a third of the world’s population. Just two conditions alone – depression and anxiety – result in a staggering estimated $1 trillion in lost economic productivity.

“When committing to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, world leaders emphasised the importance of promoting mental health and well-being worldwide.

Yet three years later, the situation remains grim. “Every year, 800,000 lives are lost due to suicide. In the United States alone, one in five people is living with a mental illness, and 60 per cent of them receive no treatment. “The situation is far worse in many low- and middle-income countries, Nigeria inclusive,� the experts said in a statement.

According to them, international organisations like International Telecoms Union (ITU) and World Health Organisation (WHO) are re-doubling their efforts on this issue.

According to a recent report, technology experts said digitalbased mental health interventions have already been shown to work in experimental settings and, in some cases, have been successfully scaled for use in larger populations. The first wave of digital interventions has been based on the web-based administration of cognitive behavioural therapy

(CBT). This is often assisted by trained psychologists, and is increasingly delivered by autonomous AI-powered chatbots that offer personalized counselling and psychosocial interventions through highly scalable platforms with minimal incremental costs.

The report said simple and readily accessible technologies such as mobile phone-based interactive voice response systems have already been used in some of the most impoverished communities in Pakistan to identify and assist the families of children with developmental disorders.

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BUSINESSWORLD

ANALYSIS

ICT Parks as Investment Opportunities Emma Okonji writes that the proposed Abuja Information Communication Technology Park, an initiative of the federal government, will attract real investment opportunities for the country if properly executed

T

he Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, last week, at a business roundtable forum organised for industry stakeholders in Lagos, triggered discussions between government and the private sector over the planned establishment of a National Information Communication Technology (ICT) Park inside the Abuja Technology Village.

Although it is a government initiative to establish the ICT Park, such initiative has already won the hearts of foreign and local investors who are operating in the country’s ICT sector and they have indicated their interests to invest in the ICT park, which is expected to open up investment opportunities for the Nigerian economy.

The establishment of the park according to Shittu, would further facilitate digital capacity building for immediate employment, entrepreneurial skills development, job and wealth creation, designed to promote the digital economy in an era of disruptive technology through effective regulations.

The initiative Having conceived the idea to establish a National ICT Park, where talents will be trained in line with global digital transformation, government has deemed it absolutely fit to bring in the private sector to drive the initiative, while government which has ‘no business in business’, will create the enabling environment with the right policies that will enable it thrive.

It is on the premises of this that the Minister of Communications sold the idea to ICT stakeholders who gladly accepted the views of government to invest in the project and also drive its implementation.

According to the minister, developed countries of the world have embraced ICT to develop their economies and Nigeria can learn fast from them.

The initiative is to set up a very massive ICT Centre, where global players in ICT will have spaces for research and development, where annually we will invite the entire world to come to Nigeria and exhibit the latest development in the ICT world. The initiative will allow Nigerians to key into the various facets of innovations in the ICT world and we need both the international and local investors in ICT to invest in the National ICT Part project so that we can have an ICT Centre similar to what we have in Barcelona, Spain, Dubai World Trade Centre, among others, where ICT exhibitions are held annually.

The gathering of the private sector in the ICT space to the business roundtable, is to sell the idea to them and encourage them to invest in it. “One advantage that Nigeria has is about its large population and ICT is a service industry that thrives on the large population of its endproducts,� Shittu said.

Again, the initiative is to expose Nigerians to modern ICT development and to bring the industry and the academia together in the same environment to boost innovation in research and development.

At the business roundtable with the minister, the private sector, however, raised their concerns, which they asked government to address in order to actualise the dream of setting up a massive ICT Park that will create innovation in the digital age and also boost the Nigerian economy.

The Abuja Technology Village One key factor that will support the planned establishment of the National ICT Park, is the Abuja Technology Village, where the National ICT Park will be located. Addressing ICT stakeholders at the business roundtable, the Managing Director, Abuja Technology Village, Ms. Hauwa Yabani, said National ICT Park, as projected by the federal government requires large expanse of land and that the Abuja Technology Village is capable of providing a vast land that will meet the needs of the ICT Park. According to her, the Abuja Technology Village is a Science and Technology Park initiated in Abuja to serve as a catalyst for the desired transformation of Nigeria as a knowledge-based economy. “It is strategically located between the Abuja City Centre and the International Airport, adjacent to the African University of Science and Technology.

The Park enjoys special economic zone status that stands it apart from its competitors, the focus centre being energy, minerals, ICT and bio-technology,

designed to accommodate over 140,000 people when fully developed,� Yabani said.

She added that the centre is divided into three broad components: Facility Development, Enterprise Creation and Free Zone Administration. For the facilities development, she said over 85 per cent completion of high primary infrastructure had been achieved, containing 133km of telecommunications ducts, 56km of electric cable network, among others.

For the enterprise creation platform, an inspire incubator has already been established, which provides an environment for the creation and growth of technology focused ideas and businesses. The final component, which is the free zone administration, establishes working relation with all, government organisations,� Yabani added.

NITDA’s support Director-General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Dr. Isa Ibrahim Pantami, who was represented at the business roundtable forum by a director at the agency, Mrs. Fallilat Jimoh, said there is no close correlation between innovation and research, and stressed that the planned establishment of the Abuja ICT Park would change the old narrative and reposition Nigeria in the global scheme of things in the technology space. “With the mandate of NITDA to implementation the country’s ICT policies and coordinate general Information Technology (IT) development in the country, it will fully support the planned establishment of the Abuja ICT Park,� Pantami said, adding that NITDA is currently implementing a roadmap that will help transform Nigeria into a knowledge-based society, through IT revolution, capacity bulling, digital inclusion, digital job creation, government digital service promotion, local content and service security. He said the initiative would drive ICT skills development among Nigerian youths and the Abuja ICT Park would further provide avenue for ICT skills development for Nigerian youths.

Stakeholders’ fear Having embraced the federal government’s initiative to establish the Abuja ICT Park, industry stakeholders, however, raised some concerns about unstable government policies, which they said, could scuttle the idea if appropriate measures were not taken to address the issue of government policy summersault that has oftentimes grounded potential business plans.

Stakeholders present at the business roundtable stakeholders’ engagement forum, lauded the initiative, but cautioned against policy summersault and inconsistency in government’s willingness to executive national projects that will benefit the masses.

Chairman, SmartCity Plc, Mr. Ademola Aladekomo, said Nigeria truly needed a national

technology park with full facilities where people could work, live and play, with lots of technology incubators and accelerators that are relevant to the people. He, however, advised that government must allow the private sector to run such national park, with little of government intervention, since government has no ‘business in business.’ “ICT Parks are products of society needs and the proposed Abuja ICT Park should be seen in that light to make it successful,� Aladekomo said.

Former Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, said Nigeria needed such national ICT parks to align with the global fourth industrial revolution, but, however, stressed the need for consistency in government policies that will drive national projects that will benefit the masses. “Government must believe in the strength of ICT for national development, and as such, create the right enabling environment for businesses to thrive,� Ndukwe said.

Managing Director, Rack Centre, Mr. Tunde Coker, said the planned Abuja ICT Park would help Nigeria to further develop her technology capacities that would attract the right foreign direct investment (FDI). He said ICT could impact up to 90 per cent of economic growth, with reliable data centres that underpins technology development in Nigeria, adding that government must make data centers that are located in Nigeria to become globally competitive, since demand for data centre operations is on the increase, with technology evolution and big data explosion. He equally stressed the ‘ease of doing business’ in Nigeria and advised that government must strengthen the policy for the ‘ease of doing business’ in order to attract more foreign and local investments.

Government’s assurance The Director, ICT, Federal Ministry of Communications, Mrs. Monilola Udoh said the concept of the ICT Park would enhance smart living and digitalised lifestyle of Nigerians, designed to fill the technical skills gap of university graduates, where software developers would be trained and re-trained.

Assuring stakeholders of government’s commitment to the National ICT Park, the minister promised stakeholders of less government interference in the implementation of the ICT park, despite the it was initiated by government. “It has been noted that ICT parks will continue to play a central role in nations’ economic development. This ICT park is envisaged to house clusters of technology companies in the city or near universities—help to nurture fledgling technology industries by building pools of both native and evolving talent. ICT park will promote the growth/acceleration of existing technology-based companies, facilitate the growth of SMEs, attract large national and international companies, thereby

attracting inward investments, create world-class world-scale physical facilities and proactive support services in a controlled environment that is safe and secure,� Shittu said. “It will also encourage spin-off firms started by researchers in universities, thereby promoting and helping to commercialise academic researches and strengthen the university’s association with the park. Therefore, Nigeria’s ICT park as envisioned by the Ministry of Communications, focuses on either achieving commercial success or fostering the development of local talent,� Shittu added.

The project is part of government’s preparation for the fourth industrial revolution, which is predicted to happen globally in the near future.

The establishment of the center will encourage investment in the ICT sector and complement the proposed ICT university, which will also produce the required skilled manpower for Africa to partake in the fourth industrial revolution,�

Shittu said.

He added that the most innovative and creative countries around the world leveraged the possibilities of ICTs in bringing about social, economic and political advancements for their people. ICTs have brought about huge disruptions in traditional economies, boosting GDP growth in some and causing massive job and wealth creation in others. You may not be unaware that ICT park enables a concerted leap into the digital age by creating a dynamic environment in which local talent is incubated, cultivated, and shared.

ICT parks are best tested and trusted institutional mechanisms to address the needs of technologyintensive, knowledge-based SMEs globally. ICTs are essential in driving entrepreneurship, innovation and economic growth – and they are essential in the 21st century, to getting a job and keeping a job. “Therefore, the proposed nation’s ICT parks will be able to serve as prime drivers in the nation’s diversification efforts. Over the past five years, oil revenue has allowed the nation to start a number of large development projects intended to spur growth in non-oil sectors in order to diversify our economy and lessen our dependence on oil. The need to create a more sustainable socioeconomic environment for our teeming tech savvy youth to cross fertilse their ideas have come to the fore,� the minister said.

Nigeria needs to build strong interface between the academia and the industry, and we want industry participation and synergy on this project that will be of immense benefit to the ICT ecosystem, be it the student community, the academia and the industry. The ICT Park will help to bridge the practical skills gap that exists between the academia and the industry. I must confess that the ICT Park projects is capital intensive, hence the need for industry stakeholders to partner Ministry of Communications to establish the project,� the minister said.

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Adesiyan: Robots Will DeďŹ ne the Future of Banking Operations Head, Business Transformation, Stanbic IBTC Bank Limied, Mr. Wole Adesiyan, spoke with Emma Okonji on the importance of robotics, Artificial Intelligence, in enhancing future banking operations in Nigeria and in improving the overall customer experience in the banking sector. Excerpts: Fintechs are steadily encroaching into conventional banking and using AI as backbone. Should this be a source of concern to banks?

Any bank that has plans for continued relevance will invest in Artificial Intelligence, Big Data and Machine Learning to ensure that the customers of today and the future are catered to. There is no room for banking as usual anymore, it is important to change the game while you still can.

So, should fintechs be a source of concern to banks? No. Instead, Banks should learn from these fintechs and create avenues for partnership where necessary.

implications in the short, medium and long term?

This is the key win for our deployments.

Beyond the investments in our people, these robots have come at zero cost to the organisation. We owe this success to the ingenuity and creativity of our colleagues.

Don’t get me wrong, this is not to say we are not investing in state-of-the-art information and communications technologies or technological innovations, which of course we are constantly doing and heavily too. We remain one of the most innovative and forward thinking financial services organisations in the country and Africa at large.

In today’s banking industry, some of the key issues are around customer service, risk management, efďŹ ciency and regulatory compliance. How are these issues addressed with the use of robotics in your operations?

AI has increasingly refined and elevated the ability of machines to study data in order to detect patterns that then allow our systems to organise information, identify relationships, make predictions and detect anomalies. Robotics and AI have also helped to enormously improve the quality of service to customers and also our backend operations; from providing information on demand to customers to ensuring a significant reduction in manual intervention as well as eliminating errors which the robots are able to identify effortlessly.

Data analytics has become an important component of growth and sustainability for any business. This is particularly so for the ďŹ nancial services industry which is a repository of huge data that can be analysed for valuable insights to boost service delivery. How well the robots you are deploying are conďŹ gured to identify opportunities for new businesses or modiďŹ cation of existing processes for better service delivery?

At the core of our strategy, is the need to transform data into deep and welldefined insights. Insights that provide fresh perspective on the business environment, identifying what’s working and fix what isn’t and innovate in ways that make the lives of our consumers exciting. So leveraging the power of big data and analytics, we are able to turn large amounts of data into actionable knowledge which in turn empowers us to leverage new opportunities that present themselves via this process.

Currently the Bluebots are configured to monitor and execute certain functions, and as with technology, we would be constantly upgrading their abilities to take on more functions.

Robots and such other devices are known to reduce the need for human interface and by extension affect the employment of people. One survey stated that ďŹ nancial institutions worldwide would save $1 trillion in projected cost savings from adoption of AI. Have you taken this factor into account?

Definitely, we believe in preparing for the future without ignoring our environment and the culture of our people. Here in Nigeria, the average individual still desires human interaction when dealing with anything as sensitive as money.

Maintaining a hybrid bank structure will keep us ahead of the curve. We also encourage our colleagues through learning and development to prepare for a future that includes Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Process Automation. If a machine can do your job, prepare for a better one,

Did Stanbic IBTC partner other technology companies in executing this project?

No partnership with any technology company. This was a project developed and deployed strictly by an in-house team with support from Standard Bank South Africa.

What feedback can you share with the general public on the value of robots in your banking service?

The introduction of robots is proving to be a game changer in our operations by bringing improved operational efficiencies, shorter resolution times, enhanced data security and improved data handling.

Adesiyan

this is my candid advice.

Stanbic IBTC recently deployed robotics for its banking services, which is the ďŹ rst of its kind in the Nigerian banking industry. What factors triggered the bank’s interest in the adoption of robots for banking operations?

We wanted something new, we wanted speed, we wanted efficiency and accuracy, hence we introduced the use of robots in our banking operations. Also, constantly raising the bar is a key value for us at Stanbic IBTC and leading the implementation of all the possible applications of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria was a good way to raise the bar.

Any bank that has plans for continued relevance will invest in ArtiďŹ cial Intelligence, Big Data and Machine Learning to ensure that the customers of today and the future are catered to. There is no room for banking as usual anymore, it is important to change the game while you still can

How long have the robots been in operation?

The robots have been in operation for about three months now.

Can you tell us about the ďŹ rst set of robots you have deployed and the operations they are powering? What exactly are they doing?

Beyond the creation of our go-to girl, SAMI, for front office engagements, the BlueBots were designed and deployed to reduce human or manual intervention, eliminate errors and reduce cost of processing in our reconciliation processes.

Reconciliation turnaround time has been reduced to one minute 30 seconds. Other functions include anti-money laundering check - a regulatory requirement for account opening; credit risk management system check – also a regulatory requirement for availing credit to borrowing clients; cheque confirmation - dissemination of cheque data to specific business units to make confirmation faster, reduce returned cheques due to dishonored cheque report and improve client experience; and treasury bills/bonds fee processing - to manage fee posting for booked treasury bills/ bonds to eliminate errors that may lead to income reversal from income account.

Will the deployment of robots to drive banking services at Stanbic IBTC Bank be limited to Lagos alone. What plans do you have to cover other locations?

The BlueBots manage middle and back office activities, which are not limited to a geographical location. The aim is to ensure the robots are deployed across all possible workable locations across Nigeria which would improve our service quality to all our customers, regardless of the location from which they are banking with us.

The development and deployment of robots does not come cheap. Can you provide information into the cost

We may as well say that the robots are powering part of your backend operations right now. When do we hope to see robots or other devices powered by artiďŹ cial intelligence welcoming customers to Stanbic IBTC branches, and even serving as tellers?

Stanbic IBTC is the bank of the future and the bank of the future is now and I can assure you that this is closer than you think.

How are the robots protected against external interference by humans and other factors that may hinder their performance or breach the security?

Ensuring the security and integrity of our system is at the core of every solution and application that we deploy in offering impeccable services to our valued customers at Stanbic IBTC Bank. Therefore, we pride ourselves on the high level security that is provided by our in-house teams to the applications and solutions developed and deployed.

The deployment of the robots, signals the continuation of new wave of disruptive digitization and innovation being applied by Stanbic IBTC, taking into account the launching of a fully digital self-service branch, chatbot, innovation lab, virtual banking and personal teller machines. What next are we expecting from your stable?

Innovation to redefine and improve how we serve our customers, is what drives us. We can only say this to our stakeholders - fasten your seatbelts and enjoy the ride.

Since all the banks ride on Information Technology (IT) to drive their operations, what competitive edge does Stanbic IBTC Bank has over others that are also using technology to drive their banking operations?

Our customers are key and none of the successes we have recorded today would have been possible without our customers.

From the C-Suite across the entire organisation, we receive high levels of support and involvement in the development and deployment of solutions.

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Ě“

Nigeria’s Information Management University Underway Stories by Emma Okonji Nigeria will anytime soon, set up a Record and Information Management University, as affiliate of the International University of Information Management (IUIM) in USA. The President/Chairman, Institute of Information Management (IIM) Africa, Dr. Oyedokun Oyewole, who made the disclosure in Lagos recently, said plans were underway for the establishment of the institution.

Oyewole, in a new year

message to members of the institute, said the global project and initiative of the Records and Information Management Awareness (RIMA) Foundation shall be executed in collaboration with the Institute of Information Management (IIM), Africa. “Official Presentation of IUIM will take place during the firstever Founders day ceremony slated for 12th of May 2019. “We sincerely cherish all the moments that we shared with you during the year. It means everything to us that you remain confident in our leadership ability

to provide you with experience that transcends beyond membership. “We are ready, willing and able to do more for you and the society in 2019. You are, after all, the reason why we are here,�

Oyewole said.

Reviewing the past year, he said at the beginning of 2018, IIM Africa set milestones aimed at developing, propagating and creating the necessary awareness concerning the Information Management industry across

the globe, coupled with activities aimed at playing a deeper role in the lives and career of the members, providing more value wherever they can and offering greater impact wherever they must. “Embarking on this cause through the year has brought many memorable moments that we have been very honoured to share with you. “Among these landmarks, achievements include the successful hosting of IIM activities and

induction in four new location in United State, Akwa-Ibom, Ghana, and South Africa, coupled with hosting at other old locations in Lagos, United Kingdom, Port-Harcourt, and Abuja. It is also worth mentioning that our great Institute has been officially registered to operate in the United State of America and South Africa in 2018, while that of the United Kingdom and Ghana has reached advanced stages,� Oyewole said. “We are also proud to mention the fact that in 2018 we hosted

the RIMA Foundation Awards, aimed at promoting the Information Management Industry and organisational excellence through the pursuit of excellence, efficiency, and efficacy. “RIMA Awards is the only emerging leader and largest Enterprise Content/Document Management and Security Awards in Nigeria and Africa, recognised symbols of excellence and innovation in the management of business information and security,� he added.

Nokia Unveils New Product HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones has announces the Nokia 8.1, the newest addition to its value flagship range in Nigeria.

As with other Nokia smartphones in the same category, including the award-winning Nokia 7 plus, the Nokia 8.1 punches above its weight with extraordinary imaging achieved by its highly sensitive, industry-leading camera sensor, ZEISS Optics and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS).

Proprietary PureDisplay screen technology with HDR 10 support along with highly accurate colour reproduction delivers enhanced viewing experiences even in bright sunlight, while the chipset ensures smooth performance for up to two days per charge.

All of this comes in a contemporary package with the precise craftsmanship expected from a Nokia smartphone.Running the latest Android software, Android 9 Pie, the Nokia 8.1 delivers the best Android experience with thelatest innovations right out of the box.

General Manager, West, East and Central Africa at HMD Global, Mr. Joseph Umunakwe, said: “We have seen great success in the value flagship category with each of our smartphones in this class consistently introducing new premium experiences to our fans. With the Nokia 8.1, we are further pushing the boundaries in this segment. We offer accelerated performance with a first-class

processor architecture, dual cameras with an industry-leading sensor, OIS and ZEISS Optics for great low light imaging, and our new PureDisplay HDR screen technology “As well as delivering the meticulous craftsmanship and build quality of the renowned Nokia smartphone design, we have also brought the Android 9 Pie experience to our fans, so they can enjoy the latest Android innovations, including new Digital Wellbeing features. “Our fans are at the heart of every design and engineering decision. We want to give them premium experiences – we hope they agree that the Nokia 8.1 embodies engineering excellence at great value.�

The Nokia 8.1’s great low light imaging performance comes from a perfect blend of software and hardware. Its 12MP main camera with ZEISS Optics has an industryleading 1/2.55� super sensitive sensor with large 1.4 micron pixels for precise light capture, delivering exceptionally detailed images. With its combination of Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) technology and superfast autofocus, the Nokia 8.1 doesn’t let shaky hands stop you from capturing crisp images and videos.

A wide aperture ensures you can capture sharp pictures even in low light conditions, allowing longer exposure times that can be manually controlled with the Pro Camera mode.

Microsoft 4Afrika Partners FirstBank to Boost SMEs First Bank of Nigeria Limited, together with Microsoft 4Afrika, have concluded arrangements to host a free-to-attend event for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria. The event is designed to promote technology adoption and skills development among SMEs. The event would serve as an official launch of the new partnership between Microsoft 4Afrika and FirstBank, following a memorandum of understanding signed earlier in June 2018.

The partnership seeks to build the capacity of local SMEs and accelerate their digital transformation, by providing them with exclusive and tailored non-financial solutions.

Participants would be exposed to skills development resources, access to business networks and an educational platform.

Head, Customer Experience and Value Management, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Shonekan, said: “This partnership with Microsoft enables us to deliver a portfolio of non-financial solutions to our SME customers.

“We have over the last 125 years supported SMEs in building their business, whilst contributing to the national economy. This partnership is a landmark step in our quest to leverage the influence of technology in businesses, especially in today’s digital age.�

With this partnership, FirstBank customers can buy Microsoft products at discounted rates in the local currency – the naira – as this seamlessly aids technology adoption, skills and capacity development among SMEs in Nigeria, she added.

Regional Director of the Microsoft 4Afrika Initiative and the keynote speaker for the event, Amrote Abdella, said: “For SMEs, integrating technology into their operations is no longer an option, but a necessity for future growth and success. We’re looking forward to engaging in discussions that explore how technology can extend reach to new markets and improve productivity, which results in better customer service, more competitive offerings and the ability to act with agility.�

INVESTITURE CEREMONY

L-R: President/Chairman, Governing Council, Institute of Information Management (IIM), Dr. Oyedokun Ayodeji Oyewole; Director, Training, Dr. Oseni Kolawole; Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu; Special Adviser/Consultant to Ogun State Governor on Political Matters and Government Administration, Prince Adeniyi Adesanya and CEO, Busicon Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Akanbi Titilola Taiwo, during a panel session at the 2018 induction ceremony of the institute, held in Abuja...recently

PayAttitude Offers New Solution to JAMB Candidates Following announcement

by The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board of the commencement of sale of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination form to candidates from January 10, 2019, PayAttitude has offered Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) candidates nationwide a convenient dependable payment option to purchase the forms.

This comes with the expansion of the payment options for the purchase of forms for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to include the innovative Pay-With-Phone Number on PayAttitude which enables parents, guardians and sponsors to authorise payments from wherever they are in a simple and convenient manner.

A statement explained that during registration for examination or any other service provided by JAMB, candidates wishing to make payments would simply enter the phone number of their parent, guardian or sponsor on the PoS, WEB, Mobile or any other payment channel.

The sponsor would instantly be prompted to authorise the payment by simply entering a 6-digit PIN on his or her phone.

In addition to convenience and lifestyle, PayAttitude Pay-WithPhone-Number offers higher security features including 6-digit PIN; entering PIN only on your phone or personal device and use of phone number instead of account or card number, name or other personal information at the payment channel. “PayAttitude is the 1st and only multibank USSD and APP with Pay-withPhone-Number for PoS, ATM, WEB, Mobile and Person-to-Person transactions. “PayAttitude is available to customers of many leading Nigerian banks who can link their accounts by dialing *569# or downloading the App from Playstore and App store. “Participating banks include Access Bank, Diamond Bank, First Bank of Nigeria, Fidelity Bank, Heritage Bank, Sterling Bank, United Bank for Africa, Unity Bank , Polaris Bank and Zenith Bank,� the statement added.

Itel, Google Delight Customers with Annual Carnival Ugo Aliogo Itel Mobile has partnered Google to host the Ikeja community and its shopper to a day of fun and throwback thrills in the 2018 edition of the annual computer village carnival.

The event provided an opportunity for Itel to give out massive discounts on all Itel smartphones, fantastic freebies, mega raffle draw and there was also live performance from Nigeria’s legendary musician, Danfo driver.

Speaking at the event, Itel Marketing Communications Manager, Oke Umurhohwo, noted that the carnival provided an opportunity to tell the Itel story, adding that they are not concerned about sales, but also they are extending love as they do business. “For us, at Itel, it is not about sales at this point; rather it is about extending love as we come to do our businesses. We are here basically to engage with the community and have fun. We have packages such as buy one Itel phone and get a free Itel phone. We also have another promo of buy one Itel phone and you stand a chance of winning home appliances,� he said.

He also noted that 2018 was a tough year for them, but expressed confidence that with their business strategy, they were able to navigate the difficult waters, “so far it has been quite good. In this year, we gained more market share, both in the future and android phones.�

Umurhohwo further explained that in the future phone, they are number two in Nigeria with 13 percent market share and in the android phone; they are among the top five brands and yearly they have grown compared with other years.

The Itel Marketing Manager remarked that in 2019 they are hoping to build on what they have done in 2018.

He added that attaining number two positions in the future phone market, means a lot to them, stating that they have started off as a future brand and they cannot neglect where they started from.

According to Umurhohwo, “Attaining number two positions in the future phone market, means a lot to us, we started off as a future brand and we cannot neglect where we started from. Towards the northern part of the country, we still have more of our market there.

The people in the north wants use our future phones because it is affordable, it also provides wireless radio and torchlight for them. We have android phones, but we will not neglect where we are coming from. We have better future phone design. In order to take a leadership position in 2019, we have identified some things that didn’t work out well this year and we want to overcome some of these challenges. There are also things that didn’t work out for us in this year. Our desire is to make sure we expand and fully penetrate the market in 2019.�

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Orji: There Must Be Commitment to Grow Sovereign Wealth Fund In this interview on Arise TV, a sister broadcast station of THISDAY, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, Mr. Uche Orji, provides insights into the status of the Sovereign Wealth Fund, update on ongoing infrastructure projects among other issues. Peter Uzoho presents the excerpts: Tell us the status of the fund today as well as the value of the assets under your custody?

In terms of asset contributed to the fund, so far we have asset to fund to the tune of $1.5 billion. We have had returns over the last past years, we have been profitable five years in a row but the returns are on top of what we have contributed to the government. So $1.5 billon is the actual size of the contributions to the fund.

Now, there are also third party funds that we manage on behalf of various agencies of government and also on behalf of the government. There was $350 million that we manage for NBET, that mandate expired at the end of July 2018 and we returned the fund at the end of August 2018. Then, we also have $650 million which we manage as part of the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund, again, funds that are not really part of the NSIA shareholder funds. If you look at the NHIS Shareholder fund, all together it’s roughly about $1.5 billion of contributions. Last year, we made profit of $95 million, a year before we made over $130 million of profit. So, it’s been quite accreting.

In terms of the status today, we are roughly at about $1.8 billion.

We have three major funds under your management which is the Stabilisation Fund, the Future Generation Fund and the Infrastructure Fund. How are the assets allocated to each of these funds and which of them generates the most in revenue?

There are three funds and three different mandates when people look at the NSIA mandate. Initially, we started with 20 per cent Stabilisation Fund; 40 per cent in Future Generation Fund; and 40 per cent in the Nigeria Infrastructure Fund, with different horizons. The Stabilisation Fund is actually short term and it’s not expected to generate a huge amount of return because is short term you couldn’t instrument. We are expected to liquidate within seven days and make any demand from the federal government. So, short-dated instrument, very liquid, is expected not to earn a huge amount of return. But in 2017, we did about six per cent return on that fund in dollars. The Future Generation Fund is really where we expect to see a lot of returns; that is about 10 years horizon, and it’s across the diversified private equity, public equity, global, local. Also we look at things like other devices like hedge fund asset, commodity investment, real estate investments, all in that fund.

That fund returned 8.6 per cent last year in dollars. Now, we expect that fund to really be the engine of the NSIA in terms of generating returns because of the kind of assets invested in. So if you take private equity for example, we tend to double our money in every private equity business we make. So over a period of five, six years we are looking at another return of 15 to 20 per cent in private equity.

So have those expectations been met so far?

In some, yes! Some, the investments are still running. Because in private equity we invest and most times at the end of the investment you sell the asset before you can actually receive a return. Now, the Infrastructure Fund is very different, the shortest thing we have done in infrastructure is

Orji

our healthcare project which we are commissioning a Cancer Centre in January at the Lagos State Teaching Hospital as part of the Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects. We are also commissioning a Cancer Diagnosis Centre in Kano and Umuahia.

That took 18 months to build. So the returns expectations are very different.

We have a 20 years horizon in our infrastructure fund. We mentioned the Second Niger Bridge, that’s going to take 25 years – about three years, four years to build; at 25 years we are able to exit our investment. So that is expected to make money. We expect that that will make in some

The Future Generation Fund is really where we expect to see a lot of returns; that is about 10 years horizon, and it’s across the diversiďŹ ed private equity, public equity, global, local.

Also we look at things like other devices like hedge fund asset, commodity investment, real estate investments, all in that fund

cases on average we are looking at making about 7-8 per cent from some those projects. That’s not a snapshot you can take immediately. It takes a while to invest, build those assets before can be able to make a return.

Now, under the Infrastructure Fund, the NSIA has undertaken the funding of the Second Niger Bridge as you have just mentioned, which is obviously a major infrastructure project that you said will take you 25 years to exit. And it’s supposed to provide the link between the South-east and the rest of Nigeria.

What is the status of that project, how much is that costing the NSIA, and who are the other partners funding it?

For the construction period, we expect to finish the project by 2022; that includes the bridge, the access road, because it’s a big project. The bridge section alone is about 11. 7Kms, the Third Mainland Bridge is about 13.6KMs. That gives you an idea of what we are building there. Then you have an additional road section of 33Kms; it’s a massive project. So we are expecting construction to be done by 2022 at the latest. Then we start operating; it’s a toll bridge, it’s a toll road, so it’s going to take time before our returns can come back from that project.

Where we are today, most of the panels have been done as at November 2 which was my last status visit to the project. We expect that by March, latest by June next year most of the pillars will be up and by the end of 2019 most of the slabs will be on. So you will actually see a bridge by end of 2019. Now the access/approach roads will still take another couple of years before that can be completed. So we

are actually targeting commissioning by 2021, 2022.

What other infrastructure projects are you funding under the infrastructure fund?

So there are key areas we are involved in infrastructure. Road is one, power, agriculture, healthcare, and more recently we are looking at gas and gas-related infrastructure. So on road, Second Niger Bridge is one, Abuja-Kano Highway is the second one, and the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, recently, we had just released fund for that as part of the projects under our portfolio. Now, that is being managed through the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund that is being managed by the NSIA. In agriculture, we were involved in the Presidential Fertiliser Initiative which we ran at the NSIA which by the way I think is most spectacular success.

At the beginning of 2014, there were 36 milling plans across the country, most of them moribund, not working; we used to import fertilizer with huge amount of money spent on subsidy.

But this could have been replaced through local manufacturing. So we entered into a transaction where we actually have the industries revived locally. As the first time in the last two years, we haven’t had complaints about fertilizer shortages. By the way, there was no subsidy spent on these things within the period. So we would have had N250 million subsidy spent but the relative was the number spent on most of programmes. So, agriculture I think for us is one standard areas of success. So we’ve been quite busy in agriculture and I think that’s one area we expect to see a significant success. Now, in healthcare, by January 15, our Cancer Centre at the Lagos

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NSIA: 3 OF 13 INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS FOR INAUGURATION EARLY 2019 State University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) will be commissioned. It’s a Public Private Partnership (PPP) project with LUTH. At the moment it’s owned by the NSIA. We expect over a seven year period to earn our return and then overtime transfer to LUTH. In that seven year period we would have earned our money back, we would have also been able to train the people especially in LUTH to be able to run it. So it’s a build, operate and then transfer eventually. The same is happening in Kano and in Umuahia.

So we are looking at commissioning all three projects between January and February but LUTH is the first to go and they will start taking patients soon after that. Now, that is the first phase of 13 of such projects across the country. There is a huge opportunity in healthcare that we are wasting in this country. People still go to Ghana for cancers treatment. We can get those things done locally, and I think that is something that we see as an opportunity. By the way, this are not a social investments, these are actually commercially viable investments that we are making across these space and we expect to make between 8 to 12 per cent from some of these projects in healthcare. Now, in gasrelated infrastructure, it’s still early days for us in gas but we believe that it’s part of the new marketing industrialisation strategy for Nigeria.

The recent policy to increase the cause of flare gas I think is providing an opportunity for people to actually invest in this area. There is an offshoot of the agriculture programme. We are building an ammonia plant with OCP of Morocco; that was announced last year, where are still in the first year of actually doing preliminary work on that but we expect that that will help to balance fertilizer trade. What is fertilizer trade? At the moment we buy Phosphate from Morocco. But Phosphate is coated with ammonia; ammonia is made from natural gas.

Nigeria has natural gas but we flare it. We want to turn around ammonia for export, that’s the logic behind the agreement with OCP. So we are looking in the next couple of years to have a plant ready export of ammonia and that turns our natural gas that are being wasted into products that we can actually make some money out of it.

We are talking about a lot of projects and since we are on the commercial viability of some of these projects, I want to look at the financials at a glance. Your audited financial account for 2017 showed that even though the NSIA has declared profit after tax of N22.6 billion, some of your investments in fertiliser like you just mentioned, the blending facilities were still operating at a loss. So why do you continue to retain such investment subsidiaries if they are not profitable?

No, no, so it’s the first year and from the eight year we are going to recoup some of those losses and my view is that over the next two, three years.

It was a 12 years operation, so we took 12 blending plants from standing style from actually complete moribund.

Most of these places they look like a war zone completely abandoned. The business plan we have is that by the third year my sense is that we are going to recoup some of these losses.

I want us to also talk about some of your shareholder funds. In 2017, looking at those funds, the annual report stood at N501 billion or the equivalent of $1.64 billion obviously using the N305 to a dollar exchange rate. It’s apparent that your shareholder funds are stagnant. Why is that the case, and isn’t this indicative of that the return on investment appears to be very low?

Orji

Well, no, there are two ways to look at it. The first is obviously contributions have not been as strong as they should be. So we’ve had billion dollars and then we’ve had $250 million coming towards the end of 2016 and then another $250 million coming towards the end of 2017. You need to look at the returns on the average of some of the assets. So anyone looking at 2017, we didn’t have N500 billion for all of 2017. But $1.25 billion was what we started the year with and then we received $250 million towards the end of the year. So you can’t use the snapshot at the end of the year.

How much had been used up before you got that $250 million?

So, most of the year was $1.25 billion.

We didn’t have the last $250 million until September. We didn’t have the money to work until November when we got that money to work. So the easy was simply to use most of the $1.25 billion for most of the year.

Now, the returns on that is coming out at an average 7.6 per cent which in dollar terms is not something to dismiss that, it is not inconsequential in dollar terms. And again, two different

We expect that by March, latest by June next year most of the pillars will be up and by the end of 2019 most of the slabs will be on. So you will actually see a bridge by end of 2019. Now the access/approach roads will still take another couple of years before that can be completed

funds have two different mandates.

The Stabilisation Fund, the benchmark is two per cent. The benchmark is capital preservation in dollar terms but we made more than that. Each fund has its own benchmark.

If you made more that, how much more did you make?

We made about six per cent on the stabilization Fund against the benchmark of two per cent. The Future Generation Fund, we made more than eight per cent – about 8.6 per cent, I don’t have the numbers right in front of me, and it’s 2017 we are talking, so these numbers are loaded, you can always go back to the accounts and look at the numbers. Now, could that have done better, yes! But the standard criticism on this job is very simple: lose money you are a fool; make money you didn’t make enough.

So I came into this job knowing fully well that everybody has the right to be curious about that and make those statements. But when I took this job and one of my mentors who was had been the CIO of the Courier Investment company said this to me: ‘the standard criticism of the sovereign wealth fund manager in Nigeria is that you could never satisfy the‌ performance; don’t lose money but if you make money you don’t know how much you make, it’s not enough.’ Now, in aggregate, that I don’t think is something to dismiss. Now, it’s not third quarter, it’s second quarter anyway in terms of when we look at our peers. The real challenge in this job is frankly in a market that is quite volatile. By the way, in 2018 we started to have more volatile market than 2017. This same year, the US Stock market made record highs and in this same year, two to three weeks we lost everything. So it’s incredibly volatile market and so holding stables sometimes is actually not a bad thing and it’s kind of more challenging than you think.

So, are you saying that part of your assets are invested in the US Stock market?

Some, 10 per cent of the FGF is in developed market’s open market.

Isn’t that too volatile?

It’s an asset allocation that we agreed

and published and said that this is what we are going to invest in.

But why don’t you invest in bonds which are safer?

Are they? What makes you think they are?

They are safer!

No, no, no, let’s go to that for a minute; this is what happens to bond prices: in a rising interest rate environment bonds tend to collapse in terms of valuations. And then, two, if you invest in a corporate bond and the company goes bankrupt, it’s the same risk. So the point I’m making is that it’s safer than equity.

Don’t you think it’s lack of political will to save excess proceed from crude oil sell for the Nigerian owners of the fund which is obviously the federal government, the states and the local governments, that is the challenge and what needs to be done to grow our fund for future generations?

I agree with that; in terms of the size of the NSIA relative to the size of the GDP of the country, it’s small.

And I think very soon the argument we started late, there must be the commitment to invest in the Sovereign Wealth Fund. We ought to have three mandates: The Future Generation, the Stabilisation and the Infrastructure.

We are probably the one with those three mandates. Most other Sovereign Wealth Funds have only two mandates – Stabilisation, Generation/Assets, it’s focused on domestic infrastructure in particular. It’s a whole different skill-set to manage and invest in that area. And that means that the NSIA took its mandates and it’s all about consistency and contribution. The other sovereign Wealth Funds that you have mentioned are doing that.

Abu Dhabi started in the 70s, Qatar started in the 50s. So there must be a consistent approach to investing in Sovereign Wealth Fund and the impact should be measured in decades because that’s not what we have been comparing them with. Today you are comparing them after 30, 40 years or 70. We must be consistent at a start, and I think that is something we need to address as a nation.

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Communications Companies to Watch in 2019 Despite the lull in business activities in 2018, which also affected operations of many marketing communication agencies, some communication firms still pulled off some laudable feats during the year and this may as well position them ahead others in 2019. Raheem Akingbolu writes XLR8: Buoyed by the award of ‘Public Relations Consultancy of the Year’ at the 2018 edition of Lagos Public Relations Industry Gala and Awards (LAPRIGA) organised by the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), XLR8, one of West Africa’s leading public relations and communications consultancies, entered the new year with a renewed vigor to help its clientele remain ahead of the curve through the provision of top quality and bespoke communication services.

Noah’s Ark: For Noah’s Ark, the out gone year recorded an impressive performance as the agency continued to show its class among the league of new generations. On the continental level, the agency has shown that it was a force to reckon with, getting nominations back to back at African Cristal Award.

Troyka Group: Insight Communications, Rosabell Advertising Limited, Promoserve Limited and Centrespread Advertising Limited.

These names belong to agencies that carry the baton of second generation advertising agencies. They started in the late 70s to the early 80s but one name that has stood out among the pack is that of Insight. Built and nurtured by irrepressible Biodun Shobanjo.

Insight has not only built brands but has equally become a brand on its own. In what looked like a calculated attempt to cushion the effect of the recession period, Biodun Sobanjo’s Troyka Group, in 2016, concluded its equity partnership deal with Publicis Groupe.

Prima Garnet: The silent re-engineering taking place at one of the nation’s oldest third generation indigenous advertising agencies is an indication that the Lolu Akinwunmi-led advertising giant will have a busy 2019. Few months ago, Akinwumi unveiled a book ‘Skin for Skin: The Prima Garnet Story’. 2019 may be the year for him to prove his promoters right.

X3M Ideas: Conveniently one of the best creative agencies in Nigeria with global recognition to show for it. Aside its consistent winning at the Lagos Advertising & Ideas Festival (LAIF), X3M Ideas has also made Nigeria proud at African Cristal Award in Morocco. In 2018, the agency extended its operations to South Africa, where it now oversees the affairs of three locations. Some of its clients include; Glo, Multichoice DSTV, FrieslandWamco - Peak Milk, Chivas and FBN Quest for First Bank.

Casers Group: For over three decades, the Casers group and its subsidiaries, DDB Lagos, Capital Media and Magenta have been making waves in the Nigerian marketing communications space. At the last edition of LAIF awards in Lagos, which is Nigeria’s most definitive event that recognises, rewards and promotes creative excellence in all areas of advertising and marketing communications, DDB again proved its mettle by pushing other agencies to the back seat. DDB Lagos is also the first Nigerian creative agency to receive international recognition when it won an EPICA Award for its “Speechless� campaign developed for GirlHub (an advocacy project for the Northern girl child sponsored by the Nike Foundation in partnership with USAID/DFID) in 2012.

THISDAY/ARISE TV: A major stakeholder in the marketing communications industry, this brand had a role to play in shaping businesses in 2018. With the contribution of the two media outfits – THISDAY and ARISE TV, to business and political developments in 2018, the two brands may as well lead in 2019 when it comes to agenda-setting and platforms for brands to excel. The management of the two organisations must have seen this coming as a lot are currently being done to restructure the media conglomerate. THISDAY/ARISE TV recently broke a remarkable record with the introduction of first of its kind series of one-on-one presidential debates to help voters learn more about the two forefront presidential candidates, through which top editorial staff of the two companies had exclusive interview with President Muhammadu Buhari.

Hill+Knowlton Strategies (H+K): H+K is a global public relations and integrated communications agency. The company was

launched in May 2015 with the opening of an office in Victoria Island Lagos. Mrs. Tokunboh Georg-Taylor was appointed to serve as Managing Director and still heads the Company in that capacity. Hill+Knowlton Strategies Nigeria builds on the company’s existing strong presence in Sub-Saharan Africa and further extends the agency’s ability to serve its rapidly expanding client interests in African countries in a fully integrated way.

HS MEDIA GROUP: HS Media Group, owners of the HotSports brand is Nigeria premiere sports marketing and media content development & Production Company. The company which started as a one TV programme production company, HOTSPOTS NETWORK on NTA over 20 years ago has diversified into six business subsidiaries: HotSports Nigeria, PRIMEDIA International, HS Production Facilities, HS Mintamatics, HS I-SAT Hotsports, and HS TV College.

With its new ultra-modern digital studio complex which is the first of its kind in SubSaharan Africa, HS will revolutionise the Media content production and Television broadcast industry in Nigeria and indeed Africa in 2019.

PR Redline: For PR Redline, a member of the CentrespreadGrey group, the next twelve months promises upward turn of events, as the firm gears to be more engaging and innovative in its business approach. Redline has been the sole image reputation manager of the Pan African Bank, Ecobank Nigeria in the last three years, and from all indications will maintain its grip on the account. Coupled with the experience and innovative leadership skills of the new Managing Director of the company, Moruff Adenekan, who was poached from BHM, it can be safely said that PR Redline stands a good chance of making a remarkable impact in the industry in 2019.

C&F Porter Novelli: At the tail end of last year, C&F Porter Novelli won two awards at the Lagos Public Relations Industry Gala and Awards (LaPRIGA). In award that has a total of 13 categories; C & F was pronounced the Model Agency of All Time and the LaPRIGA Lifetime Achievement Awards.

For those who know the history of the agency and its owner, Nn’emeka Maduegbuna the achievement was not a surprise.

Image Merchants Promotion Limited: Image Merchants Promotion Limited, the publishers of PRNigeria and Economic Confidential, has remained the only PR firm to have consistently won the annual Golden World Award of International Public Relations Association (IPRA) on Crisis Management in Qatar 2016, Bulgaria 2017 and Spain 2018.

Apart from bagging multiple SABRE awards hosted by African Public Relations Association (APRA) in Morocco and Botswana, its press release platform, PRNigeria remains the major source of credible information on Military, Security, Intelligence and Response Agencies in Nigeria.

Media Edge: For Media Edge, year 2018 was a mixed bag. Mixed bag in the sense that it experienced the good, the bad and the ugly as is common to all players in the Nigerian corporate community, most especially in the integrated marketing communications sector. The year was good and excellent as MARKETING EDGE publications, a brand focused marketing magazine in Nigeria, and a member of Media Edge Group recorded another landmark with the introduction of MARKETING EDGE on TV. Brooks & Blakes: Though it lost the MTN account in 2018, the development didn’t deter Brooks & Blakes from making a significant impact on 2018, through other businesses and innovation. Knowing that the youth market has held sway on research outcomes and policy formulation where it affects what brands do and how they do it, the agency collaborated with other organisations to birth the Higher Institutions Football League (HiFL) and growth of social media influencers. With the popularity of the platform, 2019 will provide huge opportunity for Brooks & Blakes to explore. Since consumers’ voice and impact on marketing direction will grow stronger the agency will be better for it.

Caritas Communications: With the publication of a book ‘Public Relations Thoughts and Deeds,’ in November last year, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Caritas Communications, Adedayo Ojo Caritas Communications, has set the tone for 2019. The 128 pages book gives a global perspective of the practice, while presenting an array of case studies to readers.

Oracle Experience Limited: Oracle and a few experiential agencies have in the last few years proved to brand owners that it is easier to sell products that are innovative and socially conscious than pushing for more market share through advertising. The agency, which has consistently worked for Nigerian Breweries, is believed to have contributed immensely to the success of most brands from the stable in recent time. Among other achievements in 2018, Oracle helped Nigerian Breweries to build a 60ft “Aro Meta� statue, which some people also refers to as ‘three wise men’ with over 10,000 crates of the Star Lager at the one week-long ‘One Lagos Fiesta’.

Chain Reactions Nigeria: Managing

Director/Chief Strategist of Chain Reactions Nigeria, Israel Jaiye Opayemi, recently won the ‘PR Practitioner of the Year’ at the 2018 edition of Lagos PR Industry Gala Awards (LaPRIGA). Opayemi’s agency is the exclusive Nigerian affiliate and preferred West Africa’s partner of Edelman, the world’s largest PR firm with presence in 65 countries across the globe.

Though the agency currently works for 9mobile and Facebook, one of his major achievements in 2018 was the way he successfully changed the narratives about the current Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and repositioned the former minister for governor. In 2019, he will have a lot to do.

IDEAS House: If what defines a marketing communication agency is the ability to look beyond others and proffer far-reaching solutions to marketing challenges, then one can comfortably concludes that IDEAS House will rule the experiential business environment in 2019. With companies struggling to find their feats in the post recession era, savvy brand managers will sure look beyond advertising to influence consumers and this will give experiential marketing companies huge advantage. For Kehinde Salami’s IDEAS House, this year may be the time to reap the gain of its creative ingenuity.

Compact Communications: Owned by Chuddy Oduenyi, one of the most cerebra Public Relations practitioners in the country, Compact Communications is behind the success stories of some brands in Nigeria, including Polaris Bank and Smiles. The success and visibility of DDB, a creative agency can also be linked with Compact who for many years handled its PR need.

Nitro 121: Established about 13 years ago as 141 Worldwide and nurtured by British born Bunmi Oke, who resigned two years ago to float Ladybird Limited, the agency recently rebranded with new name and logo.

Its Managing Director, Lampe Omoyele, said the new identity was an evolution aimed at achieving higher height, with major focus on teamwork high performance. He also promised that Nitro 121 will henceforth provide better digital, creative and engagement for the clients and stakeholders.

Precise: Though established a year ago by a former Chief Executive Officer of The Quadrant Company, Bolaji Okusaga, Precise is positioned to help many businesses grow in 2019. In the last one year, it has not only provided strategic communications for many companies, Precise has helped many clients to formulate and push the bounds of possibilities in the market place.

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What to Expect When You’re Expecting a Bear Market Suzanne Woolley and Annie Massa

If there’s a silver lining for Main Street investors in the stock market turmoil of the past few months, it’s this: They now have a far more realistic idea of how much risk they’re willing to take— and a new appreciation for what portfolio diversification means.

The plunge in the S&P 500 late last year, 19.8 percent from its September high to its December low, wasn’t quite enough to meet the traditional definition of a bear market (unless you’re rounding up). And stocks have climbed back more than 9 percent since. Still, after a very long bull market, fear of missing out has suddenly morphed into worry about years of fat gains melting away. Some investors are taking a serious look at the risks in their portfolio for the first time in a while. Financial planners see it in their offices. “Our highest client acquisition periods are when the markets are getting murdered,� says Lou Stanasolovich, president of Legend Financial Advisors. “We live for this.�

It’s true that many people don’t do a deep analysis of their portfolio until a hard knock forces them to pay attention. While many are nervous now, few are in crisis mode, which makes this a good time for them to re-examine whether their portfolios are still in sync with their risk tolerance and financial goals. “We should spend more time planning for volatility and potential losses than trying to predict when the next downturn will happen,� says Peter Lazaroff, chief investment officer at investment adviser Plancorp.

Of course, advisers warn against selling emotionally after a drop.

Many investors will even want to buy stocks, if only to get the share of their portfolio that’s devoted to equities back up to their intended allocation. “When big market moves happen, there’s a big opportunity to rebalance,� says Greg Davis, CIO for Vanguard Group. “Valuations are back to fair levels when it comes to U.S. equities.� Sam Boyd, a 31-year-old financial planner and senior vice president at Capital Asset Management Group, says that when he sees high volatility, he just hopes it coincides with the end of his pay period so his 401(k) contribution goes into the market as it falls.

The idea of a portfolio review isn’t to try to time the market, but to accept that volatility is normal and make sure you aren’t getting more of it than you can handle.

Investors can start by looking at all their accounts next to one another to see where they overlap and if they need to be rebalanced.

Many are likely to discover that their supposedly diversified portfolio is surprisingly concentrated in large-cap tech stocks. “I hear people say all the time that they have an S&P 500 index fund, so are diversified across 500 companies,� says David Alison of Alison Wealth Management.

What they don’t take into account, he says, is how shares of a handful of massive technology companies have grown in value and now take up a large portion of not only indexes such as the S&P 500 but also the portfolios of actively managed mutual funds.

About a decade ago, at the stock market bottom on March 9, 2009, the largest weighting in the S&P 500 was Exxon Mobil Corp., at 5.6

percent of the index.

The oil giant was followed by about 2 percent weightings each in companies as diverse as AT&T, Chevron, Johnson & Johnson, and Procter & Gamble. As of Jan. 8 the highest weighting is Microsoft Corp., at about 3.7 percent of the index.

It’s followed by Amazon.com, Apple, Berkshire Hathaway (which has Apple as its largest commonstock holding), and Johnson & Johnson. The S&P’s top 10 also includes Alphabet Inc. and Facebook Inc. Highflying tech stocks are also dominant in many funds with a big presence in 401(k) retirement savings plans. At the $108 billion Fidelity Contrafund, for example, three of the top five holdings on Nov. 30 were tech stocks: Amazon represented almost 7 percent of assets, Facebook 5.4 percent, and Microsoft 4.2 percent. All told, tech represented more than 34 percent of the fund’s portfolio, according to Morningstar Inc. data.

What’s more, portfolio concentrations tend to grow when clients invest on their own, Alison says, because people often invest in what they know. “My Apple employees are buying Facebook, Netflix, Qualcomm, Amazon,� he says.

His Facebook clients aren’t buying more Facebook directly, he adds, but when their restricted shares vest, they hold on to them rather than diversify.

Reassessing tech exposure doesn’t have to mean running from these companies altogether.

As of Nov. 30, the Vanguard S&P 500 exchange-traded fund had about 22 percent of its assets in the tech sector.

You can use that figure as your rough baseline. If your overall stock portfolio holds much less, you’re making a bet that tech stocks have become overvalued.

(This may make some intuitive sense after a long rally, but remember that these kinds of active calls are extremely difficult even

for professionals to get right.)

If you hold a lot more, you may have unintentionally chased the momentum of the market’s hottest sector, and it could make sense to pare back to a weighting in line with the index.

Investors should also consider if they have enough money in bonds. This may feel like odd advice just now: One reason the stock market is hurting is because the U.S. Federal Reserve has been pushing up interest rates, and bond prices fall when rates rise.

Still, a diversified portfolio of high-quality bonds should be less volatile than stocks and can play a key role in preserving capital over time.

A starting point for thinking about how much to hold in bonds is your age, says William Bernstein, a principal at Efficient Frontier Advisors.

An old, conservative rule of thumb is “your age in bonds�—so if you’re 45, you’d hold 45 percent in fixed income. But you can adjust that up or down based on how comfortable you are with risk.

Many target-date retirement mutual funds, which allocate assets based on an investor ’s age, are much more aggressive. That can work if you tend to see stock market drops as buying opportunities.

Which brings us to psychology.

Bernstein puts the challenge of staying cool amid constant market noise in blunt terms: “It’s all a head game, and it’s surviving the head game over time that determines how successful you are.�

Theoretically, young investors could be 100 percent in stocks because they could have 40 to 50 years of earning power and the ability to ride out market cycles.

The problem? “There aren’t very many sentient beings in this quadrant of the universe that can actually tolerate [a portfolio] of all stocks,� Bernstein says.

Even a young person may want some bonds as ballast, to

help lessen urges to sell during a market swoon.

Perhaps more crucial is keeping money in safe short-term bonds or a moneymarket fund—outside of a retirement account—to tap in case of an emergency, such as losing a job.

Recessions—and jumps in unemployment—sometimes follow bear markets, and you don’t want to find yourself forced to sell stocks for living expenses after prices have plunged.

Experienced, older investors face a tougher dilemma. They’ve lived through market downturns and know the wisdom of staying the course, but they’re also closer to retirement, when they will be living on savings and investments rather than adding to them.

They also face this turmoil with more dollars at stake than they had when they were young, which can intensify the pain of a percentage loss they might have once brushed off.

Behavioral tricks that reframe how to think about money can make it easier to deal with such problems.

Some planners suggest allocating money into three different “buckets� for goals with different time horizons. A “now� bucket for daily expenses and emergencies might hold three years of income in a bank account or money market.

For a 60-year-old, a “soon� bucket would cover expenses further out, like the first 5 to 10 years of retirement expenses. That would be invested conservatively, maybe in bonds. “Generally, in a diversified portfolio, if you have 10 years, you’re not going to be hurt too badly,� Alison says.

A “later� bucket focused on goals more than 10 years out holds the rest of the portfolio and can be invested in stocks. Once you’ve tackled those big issues, you can go back to tuning out most of the market indexes’ ups and downs.

Culled from Bloomberg Businessweek

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BUSINESSWORLD

DEVELOPMENT

Ofolue: There’s Hope for Cheated Air Passengers Chibuzor Ofolue is co-founder of Africlaim, an outfit with the vision of helping air passengers all around Africa understand and enforce their right to flight delay compensation. A Loughborough University graduate in International Business and right now, a Master’s degree student in Air Transport Management, Ofolue, in this interview with Kayode Fasua, says Africlaim is determined to enforce responsive air transportation management in the African continent. Excerpts: it does in other places such as Europe. But with the way the company operates, there is a law that protects passengers. It is an European Union Law. It entitles passengers to about 600 Euro in flight delay compensation whenever they are involved in any flight disruption that meets a certain criterion.

As a co-founder of Africlaim, can you explain what the endeavour all about?

Africlaim was founded in 2016 with the vision of helping air passengers all around Africa understand and enforce their right to flight delay compensation – which is usually neglected around this part of the world. Our mission is to make claiming flight delay compensation a completely hassle-free process for our customers, while also offering the best pay-out rates worldwide. With Africlaim, you get a real value for your money and time. Africlaim is the first of its kind in Africa. It is a platform designed to make the claim filing process much easy for passengers involved in delayed, cancelled and overbook flights. Passengers may be entitled to as much as $700 for their flight delays.

What inspired you into creating this idea?

As you may be aware of, the Flight Compensation Regulation 261/2004 was established, requiring airlines to pay compensation of â‚Ź250 to â‚Ź600, depending on the flight distance for delays spanning over three hours, for flght cancellations, or being denied boarding arising from overbooking.

In late 2015, Ifeanyi Ezechukwu, my partner in this endevour, was subjected to a flight delay situation by a reputable airline flying from Milan to Lagos. The airline did nothing to show concern towards his plight. No compensation was offered whatsoever.

A frustrated Ifeanyi, who had now been stuck in the airport for close to six hours, called me-and I was working in Lagos at the time, to share his unfair experience in the hands of the airline. Digging deeper into the issue, we stumbled upon the EU regulation (EC) 261/2004 - which stated that Ifeanyi was entitled to claiming up to $700 for the inconvenience and loss of time suffered as a result of the delay. With a great amount of research and support from friends and associates with legal backgrounds, we were able to secure Ifeanyi’s full compensation for his delay.

Realising that it was actually possible to secure compensation for flight delays and that most Nigerians especially, did not know about this, despite the harsh treatments from airlines, we decided to set out to help unaware passengers claim their rightful compensation. And so, Africlaim was born! Africlaim has so far helped thousands of unaware passengers over the past few years understand their rights and successfully claimed for them, their financial compensation.

But some flight delays are due to natural causes, like bad weather?

Yes, we know. Flight delays happen, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept them. You should strive to know if your rights have been impugned. What does the regulation say the airline should do in the event of a foreshadowed bad weather situation? Our goal is to ensure that the air passengers are not cheated out.

When your flight is to be delayed, why couldn’t you get notified early enough? How about its negative effects on your proposed business transaction or medical treatment trip? These are some of the grey areas, among many others, that we stand to help air travellers sort out. Like I said

How does this law cover Nigerians?

The law covers you if your flight took off or landed in the EU, or your flight was with an EU airline. For instance, if you were delayed on a flight from the United Kingdom to Nigeria, you are fully eligible for compensation as long as your delay meets some certain requirements.

Or, if you are involved in a delayed departure out of Nigeria on an EU airline (such as British Airways or Virgin Atlantic), you’re also covered by the law. It’s really that simple! The law is not specific to your citizenship.

It is all about if your situation meets with the criteria of compensation.

So, yes, it can work in Nigeria; it can cover Nigerians.

Ofolue

earlier, you may be entitled to as much as $700 if your flight has been delayed, cancelled, or overbooked especially within the last four years.

So what impact have you made since your debut?

Africlaim is the first company in the African continent to have the vision of being in the forefront of ensuring that passengers have easy access to claiming rightful compensation from airline disruptions, which are very common. With our vast experience and expertise in flight delay compensation, combined with a strong desire for customer satisfaction, Africlaim is well-positioned as the leader in the industry.

Besides, Africlaim currently boasts of a 98 percent success rate on all claims processed through the company. Our legal aviation knowledge

What Nigeria is going through now, other countries have gone through it before. Our development as a country, I would say, has just been delayed a bit longer.

So, there are just some elements that we hope will pass through with time

and experience, combined with our unique algorithms and a stubborn desire to make airlines compensate their passengers, make us the right choice for processing your claim. Your chances of getting paid are greatly increased when filing with us and you also save a great deal of time and stress! Once you receive the email notification that your claim is ready for payout, you can proceed to select your most preferred pay-out option from a multiple range of options which include: Cash, Cheque, Bank transfer (Manual & International) and PayPal. We also pay out in any currency of your choice!

Compared to taking on the claim for your flight delay compensation process on your own or with any other firm, we offer one of the fastest processing times, both on the domestic and international market. This means you wouldn’t have to wait for long before you receive your financial compensation from the airline.

Our “No Win, No Fee� policy simply means that in the unlikely event that we handle your case and your claim is unsuccessful, we won’t charge you a thing. We do not charge any up-front fees; we take our fees from the compensation that you are awarded, so you never have to deal with surprise legal bills or any hidden costs.

Can the Africlaim ambition succeed in a clime like Nigeria?

Yes, it can work in any country, Nigeria inclusive. Flight delays happen worldwide, so it can work in any country where you have an airport. But you know Nigeria is unique when it comes to such, as many legal trappings, and refusal by airlines to honour compensatory obligations may apply?

Yes, this country is unique because it offers a great amount of challenges.

Hence, it does not work as easy as

Have you had challenges with Nigerian airlines with regard to the Africlaim endeavour?

Yes, we have had previous experiences with Nigerian carriers like Arik and Medview airlines. They tend to make the process lengthier and more difficult. It’s not easy dealing with fellow Nigerian companies. So, it can work but it will take just a longer process.

Now as a young Nigerian, do you have hope in this country?

Yes! A lot of hope!

Why? Even with the ways that things are going on?

What Nigeria is going through now, other countries have gone through it before. Our development as a country, I would say, has just been delayed a bit longer. So, there are just some elements that we hope will pass through with time. It’s just that a strong sense of indiscipline has been unduly pervasive in the country. Hopefully, with the whole era of globalisation, the next generation of, let me say, leaders, would learn from other parts of the world, because, now, let me say the borders between countries have been virtually eliminated. Like now as a Nigerian, you know what is going on so well in America, you know what is going on in the whole world. So, with time, it will get better. I feel like the main thing holding the country back is lack of education. But a lot of people blame technology, light, water, to mention but a few. But to me, I think the main thing is education.

If education is fixed, then people will learn how to do the right thing.

Remember that education does not just mean learning stuff at schools.

It also includes learning how to be a responsible person or a better person for the society. So, once the average Nigerian or the average rate of literacy in the country is improved, there is a lot of hope. You can see these days a lot of improvement in athletics and social life. This is simply because of influences from the western world.

Like, people are trying to do things in a better way. So, there is hope that things will be better in Nigeria.

My hope in Nigeria has not waned.

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The Quintessential Aquaculturist Fish farming is a business with huge potential. In this report, Ugo Aliogo writes about a young entrepreneur making huge progress in this space

Ajagunna feeding the ďŹ shes

“M

y decision to go into farming came out of two things: Passion and Interest. I believe the earlier you pursue your life and dreams the better. For me, I see a lot of dimension to agriculture that has not been explored and I think I need to do that. A lot can still be done in the area of technology and data management.�

The above excerpt chronicles the story of a young man named Ajagunna Joseph, whose foray into farming began as a childhood dream. His desire to walk this path was borne out interest and passion for the agro-sector.

His journey in farming dated back many years ago, when he began working with his father in the farming business.

The farming business was a fish farm and the fishes were being raised in an earthen pond which is like a natural environment for them. Ajagunna followed up with the activities anytime, he was able. He saw future prospect in the business, and decided to use his father ’s fish farm to train himself to understand the nitty-gritty of the business. “My journey and interest in farming started many years back when my Dad started a farm business. I always look forward to the adventure of climbing the wooden bridge to get to the farm then. It was a fish farm and the fish were being raised in an earthen pond which is like a natural environment for them. I followed up with the activities anytime I was able to knowing fully well that I could venture into such a business in the future. “My decision to go into farming came out of two things: Passion and Interest.

I believe the earlier you pursue your life and dreams the better. For me, I saw a lot of dimension to agriculture that has not been explored and I think I need to do that. A lot can still be done in the area of technology and data management,� noted Ajagunna.

To build an intellectual foundation for his fish farming pursuit, he went for a few months internship programme in a farm (PI Farms) in Ilorin, Kwara State, while studying for his Masters degree. The internship programme gave him the opportunity to update skill

Ajagunna’s oven drying ďŹ shes for sale to the market

and knowledge in the fishing business and it was also an opportunity for him to meet key players in the business.

In 2017, he was shortlisted to attend a training for emerging entrepreneurs organized by the US Consulate General, Lagos and FSD VTE. Ajagunna, has also attended events on exportation organized by the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and other online trainings programmes, “I was selected by the US consulate General, Lagos and FSD to share my business success story in Port Harcourt with emerging entrepreneurs in April, 2018.�

Since starting the Aquint Farm, Ajagunna has recorded some little pockets of successes for a business he started with about 500 juvenile and I have been able to grow up to 3000 fishes and he has done this under a very stable and planned analysis, “it is a cycle and the process is repetitive.�

According to him: “At the moment I have not accepted any loan offer even though I was close to collecting one from a Micro Finance bank having almost completed all the processes but declined. “Like I observed from learning, it is not so good to start a business with

Finance is another challenge, but that was managed with the help friends and family.

I look forward to beneďŹ tting from any of the various schemes or loans the government has put in place to assist farmer in order to expand the business

loans. You might just get yourself into a mess. You will need to start with what you have where you are first. I started with family and friends and was able to stabilize after a while. I will consider getting loans maybe later for certain kind of expansions and innovations.

However, I won’t reject an easy offer. “Market is everywhere; you just have to locate yours. We have been able to locate some of ours through various processes. For now, we sell majorly to individuals, leisure centres, restaurants and bar and others. We get some customers through referrals. For the records, I have been encouraged by Mr. Tonye Cole of Sahara Energy who has patronized my product amongst other great entrepreneurs.�

Challenges Facing the Business Some of the major challenges he has faced in the business has been mitigated due to the internship training he undergone in PI Farms in Ilorin. The training gave him a lot of insight about the business and his boss provided the guiding light through the teaching and instructions he passed down to him.

He added: “However, market is a major challenge. We have paid prices in this through one on one marketing, online marketing and others, while still searching for expansion because once you fix the problem of market, you have fixed everything. “Finance is another challenge, but that was managed with the help friends and family. I look forward to benefitting from any of the various schemes or loans the government has put in place to assist farmer in order to expand the business. I have two staffs and one good thing is they have waited, stayed and believed the process. This has actually helped the business increase grow.�

Potential of Fish Farming According to him, there are a lot of potential in the business, but this has been limited because of proper storage facilities. However, he added that many of the potentials that there should exist, would have will come from finished products, communication and technology.

Ajagunna, further explained that the industry has products such as processed smoked fish, frozen fish, fish snack and others, “all these areas have great prospects that anyone considering look-

ing into doing business in fish farming (Catfish) can explore or invest in.�

Ajagunna said: “Some of the major challenges I should have faced has been reduced as a result of the internship I attended from PI Farms in Ilorin. I was able to learn a lot from my Boss.

I can actually estimate how much I need for a particular result (all things been equal) etc. having put every other thing into consideration. This helps in proper cost analysis and projections and aids better preparation. “However, market is a major challenge.

We have paid prices in this through one on one marketing, online marketing etc. and still searching for expansion because once you fix the problem of market, you have fixed everything. “Finance is another challenge, but that was managed with the help friends and family. I look forward to benefitting from any of the various schemes or loans the government has put in place to assist farmer in order to expand the business. “There are a lot of potential in the business which have been limited because of proper storage facilities.

However, many of the potentials we should have will come from finished products, communication and technology.

For now, the industry has products as processed smoked fish, frozen fish, fish snack and others. All these areas have great prospects that anyone considering looking into doing business in fish farming (Catfish) can explore or invest in. “Yes I was able to because I started small, picked up quickly and expanded.

The government is doing quite ok in agriculture now by making funds available but I think they should make the accessibility easier for small scales of business. The government can also use its influence to provide a sustainable market for farmers so there won’t be fear of sales when during investment. “Well, as we know Nigeria dropped a step down the ease of doing business index in 2018. However, Lagos State Government is doing its best to endeavor businesses strive properly in the state and I think the ease of doing in Lagos is fair enough for Agriculture.

The Lagos State Employment Trust Fund is actually doing well in helping small businesses access fund and that is a good thing.�

34

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, Tel: 08152252325

LASUTH and Burden of the Untimely Death of Omolara The viral video of a man whose wife, Omolara Kalejiaye, lost her life because she was unable to secure a bed space at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital for admission, has again brought to the fore the issue of bed spaces for patients in Nigerian public hospitals. Ayodeji Ake writes

LASUTH gate

E

ver seen a man fight so desperately for the health of his wife yet loses her to the cold hands of death because healthcare institutions do not have bed space to accommodate her? Well, this was the recent lot of a Lagos High Chief, Baale Otumaratu, Kehinde Kalejiaye went through when he drove his sick wife for about 45 minutes all the way to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) for emergency treatment, only to be rejected by the hospital because they had no bed space to accommodate her.

In a viral video currently trending on social media, the Baale, who resides in Apapa Road, Ebute Metta, shared how his wife died due to negligence, negative attitude of health workers, as well as inadequate facilities in the state’s supposed number one hospital.

Journey to LASUTH Kalejaiye on December 11, 2018, at about 11:30pm, had taken his wife, Omolara to LASUTH, but met one doctor Oladunjoye and other personnel, who checked her, and then instructed he go get certain drugs for her.

While showing the drips and injections he was made to buy in the viral video, the distraught husband’s narration went thus: “I went straight to get the drugs and the drip and she commenced treatment. While receiving the drip, she woke up and I had a conversation with her.

“Everything was going just fine until at about 2:00am midnight, when I was told I would have to admit her, which was fine by me, but they told me there was no bed space hence I should take her to another hospital.

They referred us to another hospital. I then pleaded with them to assist us with their

ambulance service since it was midnight and I would not be able to get a car to take us, but the response from Dr. Oladunjoye and the nurses on ground was that they have no one to take us and were no longer obliged to give further service. They asked I take my wife away.

“I was frightened by their response. I told them this was midnight and you want me to take my wife away, which was very risky because of the time. They insisted I should take her away since we have been given a referral letter. I refused to take her away as they did not assist with ambulance. And the next action was for the doctor and the nurse to remove oxygen and the drip my late wife was receiving. I have the remaining of the drips, drugs injections I was instructed to buy, but she was prevented from going ahead with the oxygen and drip, and then my wife died.”

How can a doctor in a general hospital say there is no bed to admit a patient in a critical condition? It shows how much we are suffering.

Our leaders care less about our future. In a state general hospital, should bed be an excuse to reject a patient?

Unanswered Questions Kalejaiye helplessly took to social media to narrate how the series of actions taken by the hospital staff took the life of his beloved wife, who would have been alive today should she had been sustained on the oxygen and the drip she was on before they were asked to leave the hospital premises.

He said: “How can a doctor in a general hospital say there is no bed to admit a patient in a critical condition? It shows how much we are suffering. Our leaders care less about our future. In a state general hospital, should bed be an excuse to reject a patient?””

Call to Human Right Organisations He called on human right bodies and other stakeholders to take this matter up as he was yet to recover from the fact that a general hospital was referring their patient to a smaller hospital.

“This means they don’t value the lives of common people. I am begging stakeholders to wade-in on this issue. If the drugs and injections bought were given to my wife as at when due, she would have escaped death. Let us all rise against negligence and low bed space in our general hospita l s , ” h e s a i d .

While Omolara would have, no doubt, seen 2019 and probably lead a healthy life if she was properly attended to in LASUTH, thousands of Nigerians may have lost their lives in different secondary and tertiary hospitals a c r o s s t h e c o u n t r y b e c a u s e of lack of bed spaces to accommodate them and the negligence of healthcare workers who are otherwise trained to show empathy and compassion to patients.

LASUTH Reacts In reaction to the allegation, the Public Relation Officer, LASUTH, Mrs. Remi Bello, when contacted by THISDAY, said the hospital was aware of the viral video and had commenced investigation into the issue, adding that in due course the outcome will be made available soon. “We are currently investigation this allegation. We will brief you further on it,” she said.

In 2014, LASUTH had cried out that lack of bed space was affecting its smooth running, as they were no longer able to attend to all patients needing admission in the Lagos State owned health facility.

The former Chief Medical Director, Prof.

Adewale Oke had told the media that: “When a hospital is full, it is full. It is very unethical and unprofessional for patients to be nursed on the floor. When a hospital is stretched to capacity, there is nothing anyone can do about it. We have 600 beds and when they are full, they are full. In the best of countries, when a hospital is full, people make provisions at other hospitals.”

He, at the time blamed the situation on poor referral system in the country, adding that the Lagos State Government had come up with Service Charter to ensure work is done accordingly.

“In each unit, there is an administrative manager and a committee put in place to check if vacant beds are being filled up to ensure no patient is sent back. It is no longer business as usual.”

But with the retirement of Oke last December and the coming of a new chief medical director, one wonders why the unhealthy practice still hold sway in the state’s number one hospital four years after.

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

35

NEWS

Strengthening Immunisation Supply Chain through GAVI STEP in Nigeria Martins Ifijeh As part of plans to strengthen supply chain for immunisation in Nigeria, GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, in partnership with United Parcel Service, a private global logistics company, has developed the Strategic Training Executive Programme (STEP) to ensure skilled and competent individuals are empowered to deal with the present and future challenges of immunisation.

In a statement made available to THISDAY recently, the Regional Director, Africa Resource Centre for Supply Chain (ARC), Azuka Okeke, explained that STEP presents a unique opportunity for countries like Nigeria to develop supply chain leaders who will advance transformation in effective and efficient immunisation delivery.

Supply chain for immunisation comprise all individuals, activities, structure, resources and planning relevant for facilitating effective and safe delivery of vaccines to those that need them.

Okeke said: “One of the key areas of focus of the STEP in Nigeria is building strong leaderships at national and state government levels that will drive ownership of health programs beyond Vaccines Management.

“ARC led the adoption of the STEP by the Nigerian government through providing insight on the relevance of the program to the decision-makers in immunisation.

“National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) through the advocacy support of ARC made a formal request to GAVI to implement the STEP strategy in Nigeria.

“The ARC, collaboration

between the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria, (PHN) serves as an advisor to the government on public health supply chain strategies provides thought partnerships in the adoption of transformation agendas for supply chain improvement.

“ARC facilitated the adoption of the STEP by the agency and is currently facilitating the implementation of the program in the country.”

On his part, the Supply Chain Consultant for GAVI, Magloire Achidi, explained that GAVI recognises the critical importance of investing in skill development for global supply chain leaders.

As a result GAVI partnered UPS to provide health supply chain management professionals and decision makers in various

countries across the globe with leadership and management skills at all levels of the health system to enable them to overcome existing and emerging challenges.

Achidi said STEP, which is based on an academic framework of professional competencies for supply chain managers, combines traditional learning with on-thejob training, thereby assisting supply chain leaders to develop their problem-solving skills and foster effective team-building approaches. Vice President, Member Engagement, International Federation of Pharmaceutical Wholesalers (one of the sponsors of GAVI STEP), George Bray, said: “Leaders bring people together to tap their collective wisdom. When doing so, you must be prepared for differences of opinion and conflict. “ Becoming an effective

negotiator can reveal new opportunities, sharpen your focus, satisfy your needs and improve your relationships.”

Director, Public Health and Safety/Humanitarian, United Parcel Service (UPS), Kevin Etter, explained that the importance of leadership rings within every industry is seen as a critical driver for success. “Leadership is getting the work done through people.

A leader sets direction motivates and builds an inspiring vision, as well as creates something new.

“Leaders inspire others, possess decision-making capabilities, and should be focused on the vision to inspire others to the overall goal,” Etter stated.

Participants at the GAVI STEP re-echoed how this training has reshaped their thinking in how strategic and efficient they will be in discharging their duties as

supply chain leaders in Nigeria.

For the Deputy Director, NPHCDA, Chinenye Ekpemauzor, GAVI STEP has exposed stakeholders to what leadership is all about right from team building, success and sustaining success.

“I have gained useful insights on how to become more strategic, efficient and accountable for my actions in my organisation,” he said. The Niger State Immunisation Officer, Ministry of Health, Dr Samuel Jiya explained that the measure of one’s success is the degree to which one builds up others. “Team effectiveness happens when there is a clear and compelling purpose, skills that are complementary and mutual accountability. Everybody in a team is important, and that is why we must sustain team relationship,” he added.

NiBUCCA Urges Private Sector to Join Fight against Spread of Disease Mary Nnah The Group Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Herbert Wigwe has urged operators in the private sector to join hands with the Nigerian Business Coalition Against AIDS (NIBUCAA), a non-governmental organisation in the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS. He gave the charge at a dinner party in Lagos recently, organised by NIBUCAA for key players in the business sector, seeking their partnership on how to reduce the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.

Wigwe, who is a Co-chair of the board of NIBUCAA said the scourge of HIV/AIDS still persists in the country with Nigeria having the second largest AIDS population in the world.

“We have to realise that HIV/AIDS is not just a health problem, it is a developmental challenge. Therefore, the private sector cannot afford to be complacent with regards to the scourge.

“It is eminently desirable that private sector supports all efforts geared towards the realisation of the goal of the multi-sectoral response to HIV pandemic in particular under the Sustainable Development Goals,” he added.

The Managing Director of Total E&P Nigeria and a Co-chair of NIBUCAA Board, Nicolas Terras, said the fight against HIV/AIDS was too big for the government to handle alone.

According to him, captains of industries have collective leadership roles to play in the multi- sectoral response to HIV and AIDS, adding that the scourge is one that must be won at all costs.

He said NIBUCAA, as a platform should be a veritable channel for the private sector to utilise their core competencies and resources towards addressing the issue of HIV/ AIDS prevalence in the country.

Another member of the board, Engr. Osagie Okunbor of Shell Petroleum Development Company, said the organisation since its establishment has achieved a lot in the fight against HIV/AIDS, but added that a lot still needed to be done.

He said that is the more reason why other companies must come onboard NIBUCAA in other to achieve one of its goals of supporting the private sector to establish and implement workplace and community- based HIV/ AIDS prevention and education programmes.

Also commenting on why it is important for the private sector to partner NIBUCAA in its drive to eradicate HIV/AIDS from Nigeria, the Executive Secretary, NIBUCAA, Gbenga Alabi, quoting Juan Somavia, a former Director General of the International Labour Organisation, said two out of three people living with HIV or AIDS go to work every day, making the workplace a vital entry point for tackling the menace.

He said Nigeria’s greatest assets and investment opportunity is its human capital, therefore, all hands must be on deck at ensuring that the human capital, which is the country’s source of economic growth and development be protected and enlightened about the menace of AIDS/HIV. Alabi said NIBUCAA which currently comprises 36 leading businesses across the country and committed to fighting the menace at all levels, represents the voice of Nigerian private sector response to HIV/AIDS. According to him, the coalition which seeks to build a public-private partnership with government, civil society organisation and international donor community, among other objectives, will promote activities encouraging demand for HIV voluntary confidential counselling and testing in the workplace.

L-R: Supply Chain Consultant for Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunisation (GAVI), Mr. Magloire Achidi; and Regional Director, Africa Resource Centre for Supply Chain (ARC), Mrs. Azuka Okeke, during the GAVI STEP training in Lagos recently

Group Calls for Improved ICU, Donates Equipment to Hospital Emmanuel Ugwu in Umuahia Abians in the Diaspora have called for improved management of patients in intensive care units, saying that provision of good health facilities and modern equipment would engender health services of international standard and end avoidable loss of lives.

To this end, the Umuahia Union in Washington DC, United States has donated a state-of- the- art intensive care equipment to the Abia State Specialist Hospital, Amachara to make its intensive care unit better equipped.

The brand new equipment, which was presented to the hospital management by a delegation of the union, include a bed, monitor, two suction machines and two oxygen

concentrator machines.

Leader of the delegation, Chimaroke Nwosu said the ICU equipment has the ingredients required for effective medical care of patients in intensive care.

Nwosu said the medical equipment is functional and would be used to save lives and extend the lives of patients in need of intensive care, noting that the equipment were of the same standard as what obtains in developed nations.

“What we are doing is to extend the lives of patients that may be in need (of intensive care). Absence of medical facilities had in the past led to the death of patients hence the decision of the Umuahia Union in Washington to intervene by donating the ICU equipment.”

Commissioner for Health, Abia State, Dr. John Ahukanna,

who received the equipment, expressed gratitude to the diaspora Abians for the donation, adding that they have demonstrated that they were concerned with the happenings in their home state and wants to contribute their efforts to making things better.

He said “Abians in diaspora have been very supportive especially in the health sector.

The World health organisation (WHO) has already acknowledged the modest achievements recorded in Abia health sector,” he added.

According to the commissioner, the brand new state of the equipment donated by the Umuahia Union in Washington was a break from the past where Diasporas “just bring any kind of equipment” home regardless of its condition and relevance to health care services.

He said the ICU facility would further enhance the status of the specialist hospital at Amachara as a tertiary health facility, adding that three years ago the health facility was just a specialist hospital in name, but today the situation has changed for the better.

Ahukanna said that the specialist hospital has continued to witness massive upgrading of facilities as it has been designated a kidney transplant centre in Abia which in due course would engender medical tourism in the state.

He also disclosed that Gregory University Uturu, a private tertiary institution has adopted the Amachara Specialist Hospital as its teaching hospital and called for more help in for the improvement of health care facilities in Abia State.

36

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

INTERVIEW

Olorukoba: Nigeria Needs to Improve on Accreditation of Laboratories Taofeek Olorukoba is the Country Head, Roche Diagnostics, Nigeria. In this interview with Kingsley Nweze, he talked on need for good laboratory practice and how improved accreditation of facilities can ensure quality results are produced. Excepts: What is Roche doing to advance the cause of diagnostics in Nigeria?

Roche is a global company synonymous with healthcare. We have the pharmaceutical arm, diabetes care and Roche Diagnostic where I belong. In Nigeria, we are popular in areas such as diagnostics which handles viral loads like HIV management, hepatitis; tissue diagnostic such as cancer care amongst many things. We also carry out routine clinical chemistry. In Nigeria, we don’t only provide the instruments but the support for them.

The support includes engineering, technical services and training.

How do we address issues of inaccurate lab test results in Nigeria?

This forms the bedrock of why we are here. The best test in the world is useless if it is not accurate. The African Society of Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) was formed with a major objective to assist in ensuring quality of results. In any industry or profession, you have standards. Within a lab space, the mark of quality and competency is usually certified by a body. We do have challenges with the quality of the outcome of our labs. The ASLM as part of its objectives is to assist labs with programmes such as training.

While ASLM does trainings in partnership with America Centre for Disease Control (CDC), one of its focus areas is to try and solve the challenge of questionable lab results.

In Nigeria, there is a responsibility to ensure good lab practice and quality test with the Medical Laboratory Council of Nigeria. There is an accreditation programme in Nigeria for laboratories. I also want to encourage in anyone in an event where you need the services of a lab, you need to ask a few questions. Has it been registered by a council? Are they accredited?

Are there criteria a standard lab must meet?

Well, yes and no. When you come to purchase our instruments, my first instinct is not to sell, but to ask questions. I won’t give you a quote. I will ask you the rate of test you want to do, how many samples you are getting, where is your lab we need to inspect. We also ask you if you have fully trained lab scientists. We are doing this so that you will provide what is fit for the purpose. We will then advice you.

What is responsible for questionable lab results in Nigeria?

First, there are a lot of very good labs in Nigeria but they are still not enough because the country is massive. The general challenge ranges from economic, infrastructure, and so on. It is difficult to have a lab working if you don’t have electricity 24/7 and good telecoms.

All these are things that are unnecessarily difficult given our circumstance. It starts from there. We need a certain level of expertise, dedication and capital to function effectively.

Nigeria sometimes go to other countries for lab test when there is an epidemic outbreak, how do we tackle this?

I think we do have very good labs and that are able to do a lot sophisticated investigations in Nigeria. We are in very close working relationship with the ministry of health at many levels. What we can do is to engage them in specific matters like the yellow fever issue. We do have well trained scientists and centers of excellence in Nigeria. There are quite a lot of investments that health ministries have put on ground. My commitment to you is that we will look at it.

What is your organisation’s involvement in the treatment of hepatitis?

We have been involved in hepatitis management for a very long time. HIV however,

Olorukoba

is probably our biggest success story. In the scheme of things, we have roughly between 1.3 - 1.5 million patients on treatment for HIV in Nigeria. Each and every one of them needs to have their viral load tested because that is the only way to know if there treatment is effective. A HIV positive patient on effective treatment has his number of viral load in his system suppressed and that reduce the chances of transmission. This is the only way you can control the epidemic. This implies that every patient needs to check their viral load from time to time. About 80,000 people are currently doing that.

Virtually, 95-98 per cent (700,000) of those

Over 70 per cent of medical decisions requires some form of diagnosis and yet about two per cent of fund on health are spent on lab diagnostics...So, I am appealing for two things. First, the health care spending should be increased. Within the healthcare spending also, investment in diagnostics sector should also be increased because we need to have quality diagnostics to know what is wrong with us

tests are done on Roche platform. We were the pioneers of this test in 2002. As I am speaking to you, Nigeria has top range instruments for viral load in the world. Before, we had 27 labs doing this 800,000 test. Now, we have put in place three labs doing exactly the same number within the year. One instrument can do 3000 tests a day. It has not been done anywhere else. We are equipped now to deal with any epidemic because we have the capacity. These instruments can do HIV, HPV, TB and a whole range of others. They are just three; two in Abuja and one in Lagos. Combine together, they have the capacity to take care of the country and improve efficiency. The ministry of health didn’t spend a dime on the instrument procurement. They gave us the support.

2006 is when we really got involved in Hepatitis. The current project we have amongst many is with Taraba State. The facts are that 50,000 patients will be screened over the next five years. We started this in the last quarter of 2017. Since then we have screened 1000 patients, and in the partnership with the state government.

On cervical cancer, what people don’t know is that 30 per cent of those women who have been told that they are negative are in fact positive. The current state of screening for cervical cancer is not as accurate as it seems.

But now we have the technology to be nearly 100 per cent accurate to pick that 30 per cent, such that a woman who has the disease would be easily detected and recommended for further investigation.

Looking at the state of labs and scientist in Nigeria, what do you think needs to be improved?

We need to improve on how we perform accreditations. We need to also improve our level of awareness. For instance, every Nigerian knows that once a drug is purchased, there is need to check for the NAFDAC number. So we need to get to that stage that when you are going for a test, you will ask question on

whether the lab is accredited or not because it is the accrediting body that we will hold responsible when anything goes wrong.

It is not a short, easy and cheap journey.

It is a long, difficult and expensive one. We need to dedicate ourselves and start asking the right questions. This is the single most important thing I think should be improved upon.

What has been the challenge, and how do you think government can come in?

I think the challenge is a systemic one. There are so many challenges. I don’t usually like saying this because that is what everybody says, but everybody is saying it because it is the truth that funding is a big challenge. We are all saying it but the question is where does the funding come from, where is the funding used and how is it used? I will love a situation where health sector gets lot more funding, labs and diagnostics.

This is not an anecdote but people say that it appears to be an anecdote but it is the fact- we say that over 70 per cent of medical decisions requires some form of diagnosis and yet about two per cent of fund on health are spent on lab diagnostics. Does that make sense? So, I am appealing for two things. First, the health care spending should be increased. Within the health care spending also, investment in diagnostics sector should also be increased because we need to have quality diagnostics to know what is wrong with us.

Are there other states you are talking to?

We are still in discussion with various state governments. Taraba State took up the challenge and I think it was a matter of right timing. I think we were that fortunate. We are hopeful that other state governments will partner with us. We believe in partnership because the government cannot do everything, it is impossible. There is nowhere in the world that government does everything. The best hospitals in the world have some private inputs. In this country we are still working towards that.

37

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

NEWS

BASF West Africa Announces Winners of MaidenYoung Female Award Mary Nnah Ms. Mfonobong Emmanuel Nelson, a 2015 graduate of the University of Uyo, has emerged the winner of the maiden edition of the BASF West Africa Young Female Pharmacist of the Year award.

The company, in partnership with the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), had announced earlier this year, its plans to recognise and reward young female pharmacists in an effort to raise awareness on gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and contribute to the bridging of the gap.

The Managing Director for BASF West Africa, Dr. Jean-Marc Ricca, while giving out the cash prizes to the winners at the 91st Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria’s Annual National Conference, said with only 17

women having been awarded a Nobel Prize in physics, chemistry or medicine since 1903, it was the company’s hope that the award would be an impetus for increased interest and enrolment of females in STEM. “We also look forward to more science focused organizations to step in to make contributions geared towards the generating the interests of females in STEM”, he said.

Ms. Ukeme Daniel, of the University of Uyo and Ms. Rashidat Elesho, of the University of Lagos were announced as the first and second runners-up respectively.

The immediate past President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Mr. Ahmed Yakasai, congratulated the winners, and encouraged all other young female pharmacists below the age of 35 years to look forward to the award next year.

For Better Healthcare, Dangote Foundation, UNECA, GBCHealth Advocate for PPP Martins Ifijeh For better healthcare across board, Dangote Foundation, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), GBCHealth, among other stakeholders have advocated for Public Private Partnership (PPP).

This will be focal point when top African leaders including heads of states, ministers, chief executive officers, as well as representatives from the African Union and United Nations converge on the inaugural Africa Business: Health Forum (AB:HF) during the 32nd African Union Summit taking place in Ethiopia on February 12, 2019.

The forum, according to the organisers, will unify Africa’s key decision makers in exploring opportunities for catalysing growth in the continent’s economy, through business partnerships to invest in the health sector.

Sharing his thoughts on the

summit, a renowned financier and co-Chair, GBCHealth, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede said from a business standpoint, there were opportunities that could be created by focusing on improving and investing in health.

The inter-relationship between the health of employees and economic growth is increasingly taking center stage in many African countries, and business is being pushed to exploring how to maximise shareholder value as a complex interplay between financial, human, social and environmental return.

He added; “There is a need to close the gap on the inequality of life in Africa from a healthcare standpoint and we must look to develop a universal plan that shifts the needle as far as healthcare in Africa is concerned.

Health must cease being a source of pain, and become a source of prosperity instead.”

The AB:HF is the vision of GBCHealth, UNECA, and Aliko Dangote Foundation, with the

objective of driving business leadership, strengthening partnerships, and facilitating investments to change the face of healthcare in Africa.

He said the forum will culminate in the launch of the African Business Coalition for Health (ABCHealth), a coalition that will mobilise a core group of private sector champions through a coordinated platform to advance health outcomes and shape health systems across Africa.

“ABCHealth will serve as the regional platform to unlock synergies that will contribute more directly to a healthy and prosperous Africa, enabled by collaboration and business partnerships,” he said.

Reiterating the need for business leaders to key into this vision, Group President, Dangote Group and Chairman, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Aliko Dangote said: “The best way to move Africa forward is for businesses to step up in

healthcare and take bold action.

“We must work together, across industries and with governments and communities, to foster innovation and drive more strategic investments that benefit us collectively.

“The time is now for a new era of cooperation in Africa that will position its people, communities and businesses for success, now and in the future. Good health is not only an outcome of, but also a foundation for development.”

The Executive Secretary, UNECA, Vera Songwe said; “The commission will play a role in the design and implementation of policy frameworks around the financing of healthcare through Public Private Partnerships and the private sector.

“Building on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), this will also encourage regional trans-boundary health investments especially in the pharmaceutical sector.”

Adewole: We Will Take Demographic Dividends to Nigerians Martins Ifijeh The Minister of Health, Prof.

Isaac Adewole, has stated that the federal government will take demographic dividends to Nigerians with the implementation of the Basic Healthcare Provisions Fund (BHCPF), the National Strategic Health Development Plan, and the Reward of best performing States on the Saving One Million Lives Programme for Results (SOMLPfR).

Speaking during the launch of the BHCPF in Abuja recently, he said roll out of the programmes will enable the federal government effectively implement the policies as well as facilitate Nigeria’s alignment with regional and global strategies towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Lamenting the limited progress the health sector had made in service delivery despite huge financial investment by the government and out of pocket expenses by Nigerian citizens, the minister said the recorded poor health outcomes were driven mainly by structural issues, ranging from limited cross-tier accountability, poorly defined roles, inverted priorities and weak system levers that undermined performance.

Committed to addressing the above abnormality, Adewole said the federal government outlined a clear agenda to support national strategic objectives geared towards improving access and use of basic healthcare services, financial protection, human capital development and Universal Health coverage.

This, he said was consistent with strategic objectives outlined in the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP).

“To galvanise these commitments, the BHCPF will be used to ensure that strategic

coordination of all stakeholders including the private sector was achieved.

“It would also provide an additional funding opportunity that would be used to deliver high impact interventions that would reverse the abysmal indices, particularly the indices addressing health of mothers and children.

“To ensure sustainability and ownership, states are expected to commit to co-funding the BHCPF with the state ministries of health working with the secretariat of the National Steering Committee of the BHCPF to identify eligible health facilities to implement strategic interventions for beneficiaries.”

The long term goal, according to the minister, was to ensure that the high and outrageous out-ofpocket health expenditure was reduced to its basic minimum.

The role out of BHCPF which would start in six states would be escalated to the entire country within the next six months.

He said: “When Nigeria is committed to an issue we get it right. We got it right with polio and malaria, so we can get it right.”

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Health, Senator Lanre Tejuosho, said the BHCPF launch held the key to actualising the UHC. He also commended the senate for appropriation of the fund, hinting that in addition, the fund should provide financial protection for about 300,000 corp members across the country.

Speaking on behalf of relevant Health sector Agencies, the Director General, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) Dr. Faisal Shuaib, said NPHCDA and NHIS would continue to work in close synergy to ensure successful implementation of the programme.

L-R: Medical Director, EURACARE Multi-Specialist Hospital, Dr.Tosin Majekodunmi; Consultant Anesthetist, EURACARE Multi-Specialist Hospital, Dr. Babaseyi Oyesola; Managing Director, EURACARE Multi-Specialist Hospital, Glenn de Villiers; and Laparoscopic Upper GI and Bariatic Surgeon, Dr. Abuchi Okaro at the hospital launch in Lagos recently

Access Bank, Hygeia Move to Address Infertility in Nigeria Martins Ifijeh Access Bank Plc and Hygeia, a health management organisation, have stated their commitment to address infertility in Nigeria through financial options that would enable couples receive quality healthcare services.

The commitment, which includes invitro fertilisation treatment with 30 per cent cash back on unsuccessful procedures,

is supported by Access Bank’s “W” Initiative flagship product Maternal Health Service Support (MHSS) designed to help families overcome financial challenges and support them in their quest for parenthood and healthcare.

Speaking on the partnership, the Executive Director, Personal Banking Division, Access Bank Plc, Victor Etuokwu, said the bank has a focus on women and has developed value propositions

that cater for their financial and lifestyle needs. “Through the Maternal Health Service Support, we have helped scores of women complete their families and access quality healthcare by financing medical and fertility treatments amongst others,” he said.

The Head of Business Development and Strategy, Hygeia HMO, Obinna Ukachukwu, stated that “Hygeia is a health insurance company that is

involved in improving health care in Nigeria and Africa by deploying global best practices.

It is not just an HMO, but a healthcare solution provider that identifies unique problems in Nigeria solves them.

“The financing provided by Access Bank under this partnership will cover post investigation, technical fees, drugs, donor eggs and donor sperm cells as required in each case.”

WHO Gets Commendation Over Role in Postpartum Hemorrhage, Others Kuni Tyessi, Abuja A nongovernmental organisation, Community Health and Research Initiative (CHR) has applauded the World Health Organisation (WHO) for updating the guidance to prevent Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH), which is otherwise known as excessive bleeding after child birth.

The update of the guidance came after two Guidelines Development Group (GDG) meetings which led to four main recommendations and six sub-recommendations on the use of uterotonics for PPH prevention.In a statement signed by the Executive Director, CHR, Salisu Musa Muhammad, the organisation said it was a good development for improving

quality maternal health drugs especially for Africa and Nigeria, where maternal death through PPH is very high. He said: “While we welcome this new guidance, we therefore call on the Nigerian government to invest in these drugs as it will go a long way in preventing PPH in the country. “Shockingly, 99 per cent of the deaths from PPH occur in low and middle income

countries compared with only one per cent in high income countries although recent studies are showing that it is increasingly an issue of concern for wealthier countries too. “It is hoped that with these new guidelines, healthcare workers globally will be able to stop women and their babies from facing unnecessary risks to their health and lives, wherever they live.”

38

T H U R S DAY Ëž JANUARY 17, 2019

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Osinbajo: New Code of Corporate Governance Will Reduce Corruption James Emejo Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Tuesday launched the National Code of Corporate Governance 2018, saying that its implementation will promote economic growth, lower cost of capital, minimise wastage and tackle corruption.

He said the policy further underscored the importance which the current administration attached to ensuring the sustainability of businesses operating in the country.

Expressing satisfaction over its eventual launch, he said the achievement further aligned the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration with its signature ease-of-doing- business agenda- and urged business leaders to show enthusiasm towards its implementation.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Abuja, the vice president said with its introduction, the country has taken a giant stride in its bid to becoming a preferred investment destination.

He said the unveiling of the corporate governance code was not just a symbolic practice but a development which would help to sanitise the business environment and unleash internationally accepted best

practice standards for business conduct in the country.

Osinbajo added that the implementation of the code would be enjoyed by investors, the entities applying the code as well as benefit the economy.

He further expressed hope that given the constant flow of talents from the corporate world to the political space and vis-versa, a similar code could be developed to stipulate higher standards of governance practices in the political landscape over time.

He said: “I really do hope that this code of corporate governance, I wish we could extend it also to political players, at least it might help a bit in stemming defections and counter defections.�

However, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, said the country can now boast of a national corporate governance code which harmonises different sectors of the economy.

He noted that the recent global financial crisis had exposed significant shortcomings in the corporate governance of companies, leading to monumental failures in risk management, a spate of accounting scandals and outright fraud. According to the minister, good corporate governance, developed by the Financial Reporting Council of

Nigeria (FRCN) will instil investor confidence and instigate rapid growth in corporate marketsnoting that the investment decisions taken by the local and international investors are stimulated by good governance practices. He said Nigerian companies needed to adhere to good corporate governance practices and standards to gain the competitive edge required to survive in competitive and dynamic markets as well as attractive the much-desired Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

Enelamah, however, stressed that the code was not static but subject to periodic amendments.

He said: “The principles can differ according to economic circumstances of the countries, development levels and legal systems. Therefore, there would be the need to revise the Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance 2018 from time to time.�

He called on economic participants, not just regulators- to promote and enforce the code in order to reap its benefits.

The minister added that the issuance of the 54-page document would foster the achievements of government’s initiative of enhancing the ease of doing business, thus paving the way for new opportunities and growth of capital market.

LSE Names Proshare among ‘Companies to Inspire Africa 2019’ Proshare has been identified as one of London Stock Exchange (LSE) Group’s ‘Companies to Inspire Africa 2019.’ The report released yesterday, was a celebration of Africa’s and most dynamic growth businesses.

To be included in the list, companies needed to be privately held, and show an excellent rate of growth and potential to power African development.

Commenting on the feat, Proshare’s CEO/Founder, Mr. Femi Awoyemi said, “this was a long way coming and the sacrifices to get here is beyond a founder and the committed staff that played a role in ensuring the service delivered on its goals.�

The report was produced in partnership with African Develop-

ment Bank Group, CDC Group, PWC and Asoko Insight who contributed their insight and expertise to select the featured companies, and the report is sponsored by Instinctif Partners and Stephenson Harwood.

Proshare Nigeria Limited, founded in December 2006, is a niche financial information service hub with a key focus on markets, business, technology, regulation, MSME, personal finance and economic development. “Proshare’s remit is simple: to serve as a critical bridge between investors and markets. “Yet the mandate extends beyond providing credible, reliable and timely financial information on a 24-hour loop through an institutionalised network of

researchers, analysts, contributors, and content owners; to being the standard bearer for governance practices, fact based intervention, local investment data and market informatics. “We are organised as a professional practice to provide accountability in our role of opening up the market place by complementing regulators and self-regulatory organisation’s to shape conversations, advocate on key change imperatives, hold the system accountable in a collaborative manner and raise the bar through the way we conduct our engagements. “Our goal is to facilitate the information needs of a vibrant, productive and growing African economy,� a statement from Proshare yesterday explained.

L-R: GMD/CEO, Access Bank Plc, Herbert Wigwe and GMD/CEO, Diamond Bank, Uzoma Dozie, during a knowledge sharing session titled, ‘Let’s Talk About, Merger and Collaborations, Financial Inclusion, and Empowerment,’ held in Lagos‌recently

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)

Strategic engagement of the private sector is critical to achieving most of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across the globe, the Director, Governance and Sustainability, Sahara Group, Mrs. Pearl Uzokwe has said. Uzokwe, told Asharami TV, a Sahara Group thought leadership platform, that she would provide insight on how the private sector can become the engineroom for driving the SDGs at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Week on ‘Private Finance for Sustainable Development,’ in France.

She would join a dais of panellists to have an open and inclusive dialogue on accelerating progress towards more effective private sector engagement (PSE) through development co-operation this month. Other panellists include His Excellency Ms. Sahar Nasr, Minister of Investment and International Co-operation Egypt, Uta Bollhof, Deputy Director General

BMZ, Germany and Vitalice Meja, Civil Society Partnership for Development Effectiveness.

The event is a specialised policy dialogue being promoted by the Global Partnership for Effective Development Co-operation and would have business leaders, investors, senior policy makers from governments, civil society, trade unions, parliaments and international organisations in attendance.

Speaking ahead of the event, Uzokwe was quoted in a statement to have said: “We are beginning to see a paradigm shift in the way the private sector tackles societal issues. Businesses are not islands and as such cannot succeed in a failing world. It is no longer okay to operate solely for revenue generation. “Societal issues are both business issues and opportunities.

Sahara Group remains committed to partnering with the public sector, government and civil society towards the attainment

of sustainable solutions. “ According to her, Sahara Group has pioneered several private sector led interventions with sustainable results across locations where the leading energy and infrastructure conglomerate operates. “Sahara Group is passionate about promoting sustainable development and we believe co-operation is vital amongst stakeholders for success. Our ongoing Food Africa project which involves agencies of the United Nations, the Kaduna State Government and the celebrity chefs, the Roca Brothers, is a remarkable example of how co-operation works. I intend to share this experience and more at the event,� she added.

The Global Partnership which also seeks to advance the effectiveness of development efforts by all concerned actors towards the achievement of the SDGs has highlighted some of the in-roads made possible by sustained development cooperation by multiple stakeholders.

26,267,136.53

---- Credit to Government (Net)

3,823,345.45

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

5,433,209.43

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

-1,609,863.98

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

22,443,791.08

--Other Assets Net

-17,583,220.85

Reserve Money (Base Money)

6,746,646.49

--Currency in Circulation

1,668,378.21

--Banks Reserves

4,357,551.58 Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

March 2018

Inter-Bank Call Rate

Sahara Group Partners OECD on SDGs

(MILLION NAIRA)

MARCH 2018

15.16

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

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

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

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT TUESDAY, 15 JANUARY 2019

The price of OPEC basket of fourteen crudes stood at $58.24 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $58.39 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), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

39

T H U R S DAY Ëž JANUARY 17, 2019

MARKET NEWS

Stock Market Recovers N235bn inThree Days as BullishTrading Continues Goddy Egene The equities market has recovered N235 billion in the past three days following gains recorded by bellwether stocks.

The market, which dipped last week, had opened this week on a positive note since Monday, leading to a gain of N235 billion in market capitalisation from N11.124 trillion to N11.329 trillion in three days.

Similarly, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index (ASI) rose 2.1 per cent from 29,830.70 to close at 30,460.68 in the three days.

Yesterday’s trading session accounted for 1.07 per cent bolstered by gains in bellwether counters such as Guinness Nigeria Plc, Forte Oil Plc, Dangote Cement Plc and United Bank for Africa Plc among others.

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R

DEALS

A total of 24 stocks appreciated compared with 16 others that depreciated. Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc and Veritas Kapital Assurance Plc led the price gainers with 10 per cent apiece. Guinness Nigeria Plc followed with 9.6 per cent, just as Honeywell Flour Mills Plc and NEM Insurance Plc chalked up 9.5 per cent each. Custodian Investment Plc added 9.4 per cent just as Niger Insurance Plc, Union Diagnostic and Clinical

S E C U R I T I E S

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

Services Plc and University Press Plc garnered 9.1 per cent, 8.0 per cent and 5.2 per cent respectively.

UBA was also among the price gainers, rising 2.0 per cent or N0.15 to close at N7.45 per share as investors took position ahead of dividend announcement by the bank. The board of directors of the bank will meet soon to approved its 2018 financial accounts and recommend a final dividend for the year. Having paid an interim dividend for the

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

half year, expectations are high that UBA will give a dividend that is higher than what was paid the previous year.

Meanwhile, Beta Glass Plc led the price losers with 10 per cent trailed by Northern Nigerian Flour Mills Plc with 9.2 per cent. Resort Savings and Loans Plc shed 8.8 per cent, while PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc and Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Plc 8.3 per cent and 4.6 per cent in that order.

O F

Activity level was, however, mixed as volume traded increased 1.9 per cent to 305.8 million shares while value traded declined 35.3 per cent to N2.1 billion. The top traded stocks by volume were Diamond Bank (141.2 million shares), Fidelity Bank Plc (18.6 million shares ) and GTBank (17.4 million shares) while GTBank(N577.7 million), Zenith Bank (N357.1 million) and Diamond Bank (N296.6 million) were the top traded by value.

1 5 / 0 1 / 2 0 1 9 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

˾ THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

40

Thursday, January 17 2019

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

Thisday Afrinvest 40 Index Sheds 0.12% Yesterday, the Thisday Afrinvest 40 Index shed 12bps to

Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index

close at 1,400.28 dragged by losses in GUARANTY (-2.7%), Ticker

FBNH (-2.0%) and INTBREW (-2.4%). These stocks ĐƵŵƵůĂƟǀĞůLJ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ĨŽƌ Ϯϳ͘ϲй ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŝŶĚĞdž͘

The bullish run on the market was sustained into the 5th ĐŽŶƐĞĐƵƟǀĞ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ĂƐ ƚŚĞ ůů ^ŚĂƌĞ /ŶĚĞdž ; ^/Ϳ ƌŽƐĞ ϭ͘ϭй ƚŽ ϯϬ͕ϰϲϬ͘ϲϴ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ ĚƌŝǀĞŶ ďLJ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ DANGCEM GUINNESS

(+9.7%)

and

UBA

Price Price Previous Current Change Change Price Weighting YTD Index to Change Date

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 1,400.28

Bullish Run Persists... ASI up 1.1%

(+4.4%),

Current Price

(+2.1%).

Consequently, YTD loss moderated to -3.1% while market ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝƐĂƟŽŶ ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞĚ ďLJ EϭϮϬ͘ϱďŶ ƚŽ Eϭϭ͘ϰƚŶ͘ ĐƟǀŝƚLJ level was however mixed as volume traded increased 1.9% to 305.8m units while value traded declined 35.3% to

-0.12%

20.6%

7.7%

5.7x

0.7x

5.3%

13.9%

34.1%

5.6%

4.9x

1.8x

8.2%

20.6%

12.3%

-4.8%

-4.8%

23.7%

3.4%

3.8x

0.9x

12.5%

26.5%

9.3%

-0.9%

1.1%

20.1%

9.8%

19.6x

4.2x

5.8%

5.1%

8.0%

-5.6%

-5.0%

85.8%

26.3%

25.3x

19.7x

3.4%

3.9%

18.9%

21.95

0.0%

188.00

4.4%

1,401.10

0.0%

4

Nestle Nigeria PLC

5

Nigerian Brew eries PLC

6

FBN Holdings Plc

Divinden Earnings d Yield Yield

-5.5%

-2.7%

Dangote Cement PLC

P/BV

40.0%

32.60

2

P/E

-5.4%

Guaranty Trust Bank PLC

3

ROA

-9.2%

1

Zenith Bank PLC

ROE

78.00

0.0%

5.8%

-8.8%

-0.4%

13.8%

6.4%

26.1x

3.7x

4.8%

3.8%

7.35

-2.0%

5.1%

-7.5%

-8.1%

6.6%

0.8%

5.3x

0.4x

3.3%

19.0%

3.4x

0.6x

11.3%

29.6%

0.6x

3.3%

39.7%

11.2%

41.4%

2.1%

14.2%

7

United Bank for Africa PLC

7.45

2.1%

4.4%

-3.2%

-4.5%

15.4%

1.8%

8

International Brew eries PLC

30.25

-2.4%

3.6%

-0.8%

-4.0%

-23.8%

-3.2%

9

SEPLAT Petroleum Development C

576.00

0.0%

3.3%

-10.0%

-10.0%

25.9%

15.3%

7.4x 2.5x

10

Access Bank PLC

5.80

0.0%

3.0%

-14.7%

-10.8%

14.1%

1.7%

2.4x

0.4x

11

Ecobank Transnational Inc

13.50

0.0%

2.9%

-3.6%

-5.6%

12.1%

1.0%

4.2x

0.5x

12

Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC

47.50

0.0%

2.8%

-0.9%

-0.9%

35.7%

4.6%

7.0x

2.2x

13

Unilever Nigeria PLC

37.00

0.0%

2.5%

0.0%

0.0%

24.7%

11.5%

17.2x

14

Lafarge Africa PLC

12.50

0.0%

1.8%

0.4%

4.2%

-53.7%

-7.9%

-1.2%

23.6%

2.6x

1.4%

5.8%

0.8x

11.7%

-50.4%

15

Guinness Nigeria PLC

71.00

9.7%

1.4%

-1.4%

-1.4%

8.8%

5.0%

19.1x

1.8x

2.8%

5.2%

EϮ͘ϭďŶ͘ dŚĞ ƚŽƉ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ďLJ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ǁĞƌĞ DIAMOND

16

Okomu Oil Palm PLC

82.00

0.0%

1.5%

7.6%

7.6%

39.3%

29.7%

7.8x

2.7x

3.8%

12.8%

(141.2m units), FIDELITY ;ϭϴ͘ϲŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ ĂŶĚ GUARANTY

17

Total Nigeria PLC

195.00

0.0%

1.3%

-3.9%

-3.9%

34.6%

7.5%

6.8x

2.2x

8.6%

14.7%

184.00

0.0%

1.3%

-0.8%

-0.8%

38.0%

16.8%

6.1x

2.1x

4.3%

16.3%

19.45

0.8%

1.0%

-15.8%

-12.4%

7.6%

2.3%

6.7x

0.5x

5.1%

15.0%

5.3%

37.4%

18

11 PLC

(17.4m units) while GUARANTY ;Eϱϳϳ͘ϳŵͿ͕ ZENITH

19

Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC

;Eϯϱϳ͘ϭŵͿ ĂŶĚ DIAMOND ;EϮϵϲ͘ϲŵͿ ǁĞƌĞ ƚŚĞ ƚŽƉ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ

20

Oando PLC

4.40

-3.3%

1.1%

-12.0%

-8.3%

10.9%

1.7%

3.7x

0.3x

21

Fidelity Bank PLC

2.05

1.5%

1.2%

1.0%

1.0%

11.3%

1.5%

2.7x

0.3x

22

Transnational Corp of Nigeria

1.26

-3.1%

1.0%

-4.5%

-2.3%

13.6%

3.0%

6.0x

0.8x

1.5%

16.7%

23

Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC

14.55

0.0%

0.9%

-4.6%

-1.7%

32.6%

16.4%

5.8x

1.7x

12.0%

17.2%

-3.2%

-1.9%

-5.8%

-0.7%

2.2%

8.4%

1.2%

2.4x

0.2x

5.6%

by value.

Mixed Sector Performance ^ĞĐƚŽƌ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ǁĂƐ ŵŝdžĞĚ ĂƐ ϯ ŽĨ ϱ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ĐůŽƐĞĚ northwards.

Among

gainers,

the

Insurance

index

ŵĂŝŶƚĂŝŶĞĚ ƚŚĞ ůĞĂĚ͕ ƵƉ Ϯ͘ϯй ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ďĂƌŐĂŝŶ ŚƵŶƟŶŐ ŝŶ CUSTODIAN (+9.4%), NEM ;нϵ͘ϲйͿ ĂŶĚ WAPIC (+5.0%). The Industrial Goods and Consumer Goods indices trailed, rising ϭ͘ϳй ĂŶĚ Ϭ͘Ϯй ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ďĂĐŬ ŽĨ ďƵLJŝŶŐ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ ŝŶ DANGCEM (+4.4%), GUINNESS (+9.7%) and HONEYFLOUR ;нϵ͘ϲйͿ͘ KŶ ƚŚĞ ŇŝƉ ƐŝĚĞ͕ ƚŚĞ ĂŶŬŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ Kŝů Θ 'ĂƐ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ͕ ĚŽǁŶ Ϭ͘ϳй ĂŶĚ ϭďƉ ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ĚƌĂŐŐĞĚ ďLJ ůŽƐƐĞƐ in GUARANTY (-2.7%), FBNH (-2.0%) and OANDO (-3.3%).

24

Diamond Bank PLC

2.11

1.4%

0.8%

25

FCMB Group Plc

1.84

3.4%

0.6%

26

UAC of Nigeria PLC

8.80

1.1%

0.5%

-9.7%

-7.9%

0.4%

0.2%

69.2x

0.4x

7.4%

1.4%

27

Sterling Bank PLC

1.99

-0.5%

0.6%

4.7%

4.7%

10.6%

1.1%

5.2x

0.5x

1.0%

19.1%

Investor ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ ;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ƌĂƟŽͿ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶĞĚ ƚŽ ϭ͘ϱdž ĨƌŽŵ ϭ͘ϰdž ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ ƚŚĞ ƉƌĞǀŝŽƵƐ ĚĂLJ ĂƐ Ϯϰ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ĂŐĂŝŶƐƚ ϭϲ ƚŚĂƚ declined. The top gainers were SOVRENINS (+10.0%), VERITASKAP (+10.0%) and GUINNESS (+9.7%) while

ǁĞƌĞ ƚŚĞ ƚŽƉ ůŽƐĞƌƐ͘ tĞ ĂƌĞ ĐĂƵƟŽƵƐůLJ ŽƉƟŵŝƐƟĐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ

fundamentally sound stocks in the short to medium term.

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

41.5%

Presco PLC

62.00

0.0%

0.4%

-3.1%

-3.1%

37.0%

24.8%

2.4x

0.8x

3.2%

40.8%

29

18.60

3.3%

0.4%

3.3%

3.3%

47.0%

17.5%

9.7x

4.3x

8.1%

10.3%

30

Forte Oil PLC

29.40

5.0%

0.4%

2.4%

5.0%

84.6%

8.3%

12.0x

2.2x

8.3%

31

Union Bank of Nigeria PLC

6.15

1.7%

0.4%

9.8%

9.8%

5.3%

1.0%

11.2x

0.6x

9.0%

7.9x

1.2x

3.6%

1.0x

1.4% 6.6%

32

Julius Berger Nigeria PLC

28.40

0.0%

0.4%

41.3%

28.5%

33

PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC

11.00

-8.3%

0.2%

-9.1%

-10.6%

34

Chemical and Allied Products P

31.50

0.0%

0.2%

-9.6%

-9.6%

66.2%

30.2%

14.7x

9.8x

35

Wema Bank PLC

0.58

0.0%

0.2%

-7.9%

-7.9%

6.6%

0.8%

6.6x

0.4x

36

Beta Glass PLC

60.30

-10.0%

0.2%

-11.7%

-11.7%

17.7%

11.5%

7.3x

1.2x

1.8%

37

Dangote Flour Mills Plc

6.40

1.6%

0.1%

-6.6%

-3.0%

0.8x

3.1%

12.7%

6.8% 15.1% 13.6%

38

Cement Co Northern Nigeria PLC

22.00

0.0%

0.2%

13.4%

13.4%

34.2%

19.6%

5.3x

1.6x

5.7%

39

Transcorp Hotels Plc

6.10

0.0%

0.1%

0.0%

0.0%

6.9%

3.8%

11.9x

0.8x

2.1%

8.4%

40

AXA Mansard Insurance PLC

1.95

0.0%

0.1%

6.6%

6.6%

10.5%

3.3%

10.2x

1.0x

3.1%

9.8%

T ic k er

18.8%

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

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

Vo lum e

P ric e C hg %

SOVR EN IN S

0.22

10.0%

D IA M ON D B N K

141.2

1.4%

VER IT A SKA P

0.22

10.0%

F ID ELIT YB K

18.6

1.5%

GUIN N ESS

71.00

9.7%

GUA R A N T Y

17.4

-2.7%

N EM

2.06

9.6%

Z EN IT H B A N K

16.2

0.0%

H ON YF LOUR

1.26

9.6%

ST ER LN B A N K

16.0

-0.5%

C UST OD IA N

5.80

9.4%

FB NH

13.7

-2.0%

N IGER IN S

0.24

9.1%

A C C ESS

11.7

0.0%

8.0%

UB A

7.7

2.1%

6.9

10.0%

6.4

3.4%

0.27

T ic k er

UP L

2.00

5.3%

SOVR EN IN S

WA P IC

0.42

5.0%

FCM B

T o p 10 L o s e r s

ƉŽƐŝƟǀĞ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ǁĞ ŽďƐĞƌǀĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ůĂƐƚ ϱ ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ sessions, hence we recommend strategic investment in

-33.3%

NASCON Allied Industries PLC

UN ION D A C

BETAGLAS (-10.0%), NNFM (-9.2%) and RESORTSAL (-8.8%)

0.2x

28

T o p 10 G a i n e r s

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ^ƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶĞĚ

27.3%

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

T ic k er

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

B ET A GLA S

60.30

-10.0%

NNFM

3.95

R ESOR T SA L PZ

T ic k er

Value

P ric e C hg %

GUA R A N T Y

577.7

-2.7%

-9.2%

Z EN IT H B A N K

357.1

0.0%

0.31

-8.8%

D IA M ON D B N K

296.6

1.4%

11.00

-8.3%

D A N GC EM

198.9

4.4%

N EIM ET H

0.61

-4.7%

FB NH

102.5

-2.0%

OA N D O

4.40

-3.3%

A C C ESS

68.6

0.0%

GLA XOSM IT H

11.80

-3.3%

UB A

58.0

2.1%

T R A N SC OR P

1.26

-3.1%

GUIN N ESS

53.7

9.7%

GUA R A N T Y

32.60

-2.7%

UA C N

53.3

1.1%

IN T B R EW

30.25

-2.4%

PZ

50.8

-8.3%

Investment Research

Brokerage Ayodeji Ebo | aebo@afrinvest.com

Robert Omotunde |

Bolaji Fajenyo | bfajenyo@afrinvest.com

Jolomi Odonghanro | jodonghanro@afrinvest.com

romotunde@afrinvest.com

T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ ÍšÍżËœ ͺ͸͚͡

41

MARKET NEWS

Forte Oil Directors Seek Shareholders’ Approval on Planned Divestment Goddy Egene The Board of Directors of Forte Oil Plc is seeking the approval of shareholders to enter into agreements with investors willing to buy some of the assets the company planned to divest.

The directors had at the 39th annual general meeting (AGM) of the company held on May 23, 2018, obtained the authorisation of the shareholders to restructure the company via a divestment of its upstream services business

(Forte Upstream Services Limited), its power generating business (Amperion Power Distribution Company Limited), and its downstream business in Ghana (AP Oil & Gas Ghana Limited).

However, the directors are now seeking the authorisation of shareholders to enter into discussions with investors in connection with the assets to be divested and subject to an independent valuation on fair value, enter into subsequent binding agreements on comparable

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager.

Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

arms-length/commercial terms in relation to the assets to be divested.

The shareholders are expected to give the approval at an extraordinary ordinary (EGM) slated to hold on February 7, 2019 in Lagos.

Another resolution to be considered at the EGM is: The Directors and/or management of the Company be and are hereby authorized to approve, sign and/ or execute all documents, appoint such professional parties and advisers, as may be necessary to give effect to the above resolutions,

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 15Jan-2019, unless otherwise stated.

including without limitation, complying with the directives of any regulatory authority and all acts carried out, steps taken and documents executed (or to be executed), by the Directors and/ or management of the Company in connection with the above resolutions be and are hereby approved.�

Forte Oil Plc had explained that its decision to focus on downstream operations will boost distributable earnings for the benefit of shareholders.

According to the company, its operations is in the downstream oil and gas segment, and the Group has established itself as a foremost indigenous petroleum marketing company with a rich history and strong operational platforms.

It explained that although power business is profitable, it has huge receivables and a significant portion of its distributed earnings is also utilised in servicing the acquisition debt finance.

Regarding the upstream services business, Forte Oil said despite

the significant resources deployed including management time, the upstream services business has consistently contributed less than seven to the Group earnings in the last three financial years.

Similarly, the company said the downstream subsidiary in Ghana has consistently declared losses after tax in the last three years and has substantial bad and uncollectable trade debts in the business as a result of negative economic conditions and currency devaluation in prior years.

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 154.24 154.33 -4.11% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 11.00% Nigeria International Debt Fund 278.91 279.07 2.11% 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 0.84 0.85 -0.18% ACAP Income Funds 0.62 0.62 10.66% 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 12.98% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.23 2.25 0.19% 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 97.98 98.67 -3.17% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.99% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 14.02% Paramount Equity Fund 11.40 11.69 -2.66% Women's Investment Fund 100.09 102.66 -2.41% 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 13.00% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 96.04 96.30 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 98.75 99.16 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 12.44% Coronation Balanced Fund 0.83 0.83 Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.13 1.13 0.85% 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 12.57% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 12.70% 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 1,192.89 1,193.65 0.62% FBN Heritage Fund 140.21 141.39 -2.50% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.38% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional N/A N/A 4.57% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail N/A N/A 4.43% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 146.07 147.99 -2.62% 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 1.18 1.20 -3.13% Legacy Debt Fund 3.26 3.26 0.46% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.03 1.03 0.19% 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 2,926.63 2,954.86 -1.94% Coral Income Fund 2,774.15 2,774.15 1.30% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.42% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 106.70 107.04 6.31% INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.84%

Vantage Balanced Fund 2.13 2.15 -1.06% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 15.96% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 119.82 120.00 -4.09% 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 1.21 1.23 -0.13% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,105.37 1,105.37 0.53% 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 11.04 11.12 -4.04% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.47% 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 1.34 1.37 5.04% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.28 12.33 0.60% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.63% 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 119.60 120.13 -0.95% 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 1.71 1.71 0.16% 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 2,300.11 2,313.94 1.56% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 193.99 193.99 3.34% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.92 0.93 -2.63% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 248.14 248.18 2.42% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 161.55 163.36 -0.97% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.78% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 8,266.60 8,366.10 -0.86% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.11 1.11 2.96% 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 N/A N/A N/A United Capital Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A United Capital Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A United Capital Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A United Capital Eurobond Fund N/A N/A N/A United Capital Wealth for Women Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 11.04 10.98 2.64% Zenith Ethical Fund 12.37 12.34 2.02% Zenith Income Fund 20.87 20.85 8.37% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.50%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

6.60 140.00 51.76

-32.85% 0.00% 0.03%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

10.20 112.13 85.34

10.30 114.54 86.94

-3.30% -4.40% -3.74%

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

3.83 7.02 14.13 12.35 144.62

3.87 7.10 14.23 12.55 146.62

-4.23% -7.83% -5.47% -0.08% 0.75%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

107.13

17.03%

INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

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

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44

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THURSDAY JANUARY 17, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

Again, May’s Government Survives No-confidence Vote UK Prime Minister, Theresa May, last night again saw off a bid to remove her government from power, winning a noconfidence vote by 325 to 306.

Rebel Tory MPs and the DUP - who 24 hours ago rejected the PM’s Brexit plan - voted to keep her in Downing Street.

Labour leader, Jeremy Corbyn, argued that Mrs May’s “zombie” administration had lost the right to govern.

Mrs May said she would start talks with other party leaders to find a Brexit compromise that MPs will back.

Giving her reaction to the result, Mrs May told MPs she would “continue to work to deliver on the solemn promise to the people of this country to deliver on the result of the referendum and leave the European Union.”

She invited leaders of all parties to have individual meetings with her on the way ahead for Brexit - starting tonight - but called on them to approach them with a “constructive spirit”.

“We must find solutions that are negotiable and command

sufficient support in this House,” she added.

But Corbyn, who tabled the no-confidence motion, said before any “positive discussions” could take place, the prime minister should rule out a no deal Brexit.

“The government must remove clearly, once and for all, the prospect of the catastrophe of a no deal exit from the EU and all the chaos that would come as a result of that,” he told MPs.

Corbyn’s no-confidence motion was backed by all the opposition parties, including the Scottish National Party and the Liberal Democrats.

His party has not ruled out tabling further no-confidence motions - but Corbyn is under pressure from dozens of his own MPs to now get behind calls for a further EU referendum instead.

The leader of the SNP in Westminster, Ian Blackford, welcomed the offer of talks

from the prime minister, saying it was important for all parties to “recognise the responsibility that we have” after Mrs May’s original deal was voted down.

He committed his party to “work constructively with the government”.

But he said extending Article 50, the legal mechanism taking the UK out of the EU on 29 March, a further referendum and the avoidance of a no-deal Brexit all “have to be on the

table”.

In her statement, Mrs May reiterated a promise to return to the Commons on Monday to give MPs another vote on her plans.

“The House has put its confidence in this government,” she said.

“I stand ready to work with any member of this House to deliver Brexit and ensure that this House retains the confidence of the British people.”

East African Bloc Calls for Joint Efforts to Curb Terrorism after Kenya Attack Ugandan police on high alert East African bloc, IGAD yesterday condemned the attack on a hotel and an office complex in Nairobi, calling for joint efforts to eliminate the scourge of terrorism from the region.

Mahboub Maalim, Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Executive Secretary, also expressed confidence that the perpetrators, organisers and sponsors of the attack will be brought to justice as soon as possible.

“Such barbaric attacks must not be allowed to weaken our collective determination to eliminate the scourge of terrorism from our region,’’ Maalim said in a statement issued in Nairobi.

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta confirmed on Wednesday 14 civilians were killed and several others injured after a deadly attack on a hotel and business complex on Tuesday in Nairobi.

Maalim expressed the regional bloc’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the bereaved and wished a quick and full recovery to the injured.

He reaffirmed IGAD’s solidarity with the people and Kenyan government in their fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

The official also lauded the gallantry of Kenyan security forces and emergency services for their swift response to the attack, noting that their action helped Ugandan police on Wednesday said they were on high alert after a terror attack on a hotel and office complex in neighbouring Kenya.

Polly Namaye, Uganda’s deputy police spokesperson said in a statement security had been enhanced and counter-terror measures had been put in place to secure the east African country.

“Our security personnel are on the alert. Crowded places such as churches, markets, hospitals, schools and shopping malls should in particular adhere to these security measures.

“We have alert squads in place to ensure that this is done.

“We also encourage everyone to make use of the security contacts that we availed to them in case of any useful information,’’ Namaye said.

She, however, urged the public to be vigilant, watch out for suspicious items or people and report to the nearest police station or authority.

Somali militants Al Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack.

UN Says at Least 890 People Killed in Congo in December At least 890 people were killed over three days in mid-December in western Democratic Republic of Congo, the UN Human Rights Office said yesterday.

The killings took place when the Banunu and Batende communities reportedly clashed in four villages in the Yumbi territory of MaiNdombe province between December 14 and 16, the UN said, citing “allegations from credible sources.”

At least 82 people were injured during the attacks, according to the reports, but the actual number of casualties was expected to be higher, the UN said in a statement.

Some 465 houses and buildings were burnt down or pillaged, including two primary schools, a health

centre, a health post, a market and the office of the electoral commission, the UN said.

Thousands of people were reportedly displaced by the violence, including an estimated 16,000 people, who sought refuge by crossing the Congo river into the neighbouring Republic of Congo.

The UN Human Rights Office said it was investigating the reports, calling them “alarming”.

The reason for the clashes remained unknown on Wednesday, but the killings took place only days before a hotly contested presidential election, initially scheduled for December 23 and later at short notice postponed amid political turmoil to December 30.

Britain’s Prime Minister, Theresa May, speaking during the weekly Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) in the House of Commons in London…yesterday AFP

ICC Orders Immediate Release of Former Ivorian President, Gbagbo, Aide Govt urges reconciliation

The International Criminal Court (ICC) yesterday ordered the immediate release of former Ivorian President, Laurent Gbagbo, a day after acquitting him of charges of crimes against humanity.

Gbagbo walked free after seven years in prison. The 73-year-old former politician was acquitted due to lack of evidence.

The court, based in The Hague, rejected a demand by the prosecution to keep Gbagbo imprisoned pending a possible appeal of the verdict.

Calling the prosecution case “exceptionally weak,” the judges said Gbagbo had given assurances he would return to the Hague-based court if ordered to do so.

Prosecutors said they would appeal the decision and that there could be a retrial, but the panel of

judges said the defendants could no longer be held in custody following their acquittal.

Presiding Judge Cuno Tarfusser said two out of three judges believed the case against Gbagbo and his co-defendant to be so weak that it was unlikely their acquittals would be overturned on appeal.

The two men will be released after “logistical and diplomatic arrangements” have been made, Tarfusser added. Discussions were continuing with court member states.

Gbagbo had been charged with human rights violations committed after the West African nation’s disputed 2010 presidential election, which saw 3,000 people killed and about half a million others displaced.

Gbagbo, who said the charges against him had been politically-

motivated, has been defending himself before the ICC since 2016.

He was the first former head of state to have been tried by the ICC. Gbagbo’s co-defendant, former youth minister Charles Ble Goude, 47, was also acquitted of all charges on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the Cote ID’Ivoire government has called for “reconciliation.”

The government “urges calm, forgiveness and reconciliation,” Communications Minister Sidi Toure told reporters after a cabinet meeting.

He added that President Alassane Ouattara “and the government are thinking of the victims” of the 2010-11 post-election crisis that led to Gbagbo’s trial.

He said “further measures” would

be taken to aid their families, without elaborating.

The ICC on Tuesday acquitted Gbagbo and co-defendant Charles Ble Goude, his former youth leader, on charges dating from the 2010-11 violence.

Around 3,000 people were killed in the crisis, which was sparked by rival claims of victory in presidential elections, and atrocities were allegedly committed by both sides.

Gbagbo has been in detention since 2011, when he was captured by Ouattara’s troops, who were being aided by UN and French forces, and sent to The Hague.

In a majority decision by two judges to one, the ICC said on Tuesday that prosecutors “failed to satisfy the burden of proof to the requisite standard.”

Trump Asked to Delay State of Union Address Until Government Reopens The top Democrat in Congress on Wednesday urged President Donald Trump to postpone his upcoming annual State of the Union address, citing security shortcomings due to the ongoing partial government shutdown.

Trump was due to deliver his speech, in which a president lays out his legislative agenda and provides an economic status report to the nation, on January 29.

“Sadly, given the security concerns and unless government reopens this week, I suggest that we

work together to determine another suitable date after government has re-opened for this address or for you to consider delivering (it) in writing to the Congress on January 29th,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a letter to the president.

The United States is in the grips of its longest-ever government shutdown, with about 25 percent of federal agencies and offices shuttered.

The US Secret Service, which is charged with the protection of the president, provides security

for what are known as national special security events, including the State of the Union.

“However, both the US Secret Service and the Department of Homeland Security have not been funded for 26 days now -– with critical departments hamstrung by furloughs,” Pelosi noted in her letter.

She also said that “since the start of modern budgeting in Fiscal Year 1977, a State of the Union address has never been delivered during a government shutdown.”

The notion that Trump, a billionaire businessman who dramatically boosted his national prominence through his reality television show “The Apprentice,” would send in a written version of his address seems quaint in today’s screen-dominated digital era.

But Pelosi pointed out that up until Woodrow Wilson’s presidency in the early 20th century, “these annual State of the Union messages were delivered to Congress in writing.”

THURSDAY JANUARY 17, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

47

NEWSEXTRA

Poor Attendance Forces Govs to Cancel Meeting over Minimum Wage Amaechi meets APC governors Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The scheduled meeting of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) over the new Minimum Wage controversy could not hold yesterday due to poor attendance.

However, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governors used the opportunity to hold consultations with the Minister of Transportation and Director General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi.

As at 6 p.m when the meeting was supposed to

have commenced, only five of the governors were present.

The governors who were in attendance were those of Bauchi, Niger, Jigawa, Adamawa and Zamfara States. Four states---Enugu, Katsina, Nasarawa and Kaduna were however represented by their deputies.

THISDAY gathered that the meeting, which had the issue of new minimum wage as its major agenda, failed to hold for lack of a quorum.

A source at the NGF secretariat said the meeting had to be shifted because most of the governors did

not attend.

According to the source, most of the governors who did not attend, blamed their absence on their busy campaign schedules in their states.

The source could not give a clue on when next the governors will be meeting to trash out the nagging issue of new minimum wage for workers.

The Chairman of the NGF and Zamfara State Governor, Abdulaziz Yari, directed a staff of the secretariat to inform journalists about the cancelation of the meeting.

None of the governors who came for the meeting was willing to speak to journalists.

At the last meeting of the NGF, the 36 states governors rejected the

N30,000 new minimum wage being proposed by the tripartite committee.

Instead, the governors insisted to pay N22,500, blaming their inability to pay N30,000 on the harsh economic situation in most of the states.

Meanwhile, Yari and other APC governors who came for the NGF meeting went into a closed-door discussion

with Amaechi.

Although details of the meeting were not disclosed, THISDAY learnt that issues relating to the APC’s strategies for the forthcoming elections were discussed.

According to a source, Amaechi’s presence at the NGF may have been at the instance of the Zamfara State governor.

Presidential Panel Summons Dankwanbo over Death of Personal Cook The Presidential Investigation Panel on the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) has resolved to summon Governor Ibrahim Dankwanbo of Gombe State over the death of one of his personal aides.

Chairman of the panel, Mr Tony Ojukwu, disclosed as it resumed sitting yesterday in Maitama, Abuja.

This was in relation to a petition written by Law Chambers of Mr. Sunny Olorunmola on behalf of one Mrs Okon over the death of her husband Mr. John Okon who was a personal cook to Dankwanbo.

Mrs. Okon alleged that her husband died as a result of injuries sustained due to beatings and torture by men of SARS. She further stated that he was in custody of the men of SARS headed by one SP Jummai of the anti-crime department, Kaduna.

Okon said the problem started after a burglary at the Kaduna residence of Damkwanbo where the deceased was living with his family.

“The deceased who lived in the boys quarters of the governor’s private residence in Kaduna woke up on November 8, 2018 to discover that the house had

been burgled and four theatre TV cinema sets carted away by unknown persons.

“The deceased, his wife and other domestic staff reported the case at the Kabala Costain Police Station, where they were all arrested.

“They were subsequently transferred to the state Police Headquarters on Friday November 9, 2018 for further investigation.

“My husband fell sick and died on November 13 as he was being rushed to Barau Diko General Hospital, Kaduna for medical attention,” she said.

Counsel to the petitioner, Ms Gloria Balkson, brought a pathologist, Dr Godwin Ayuba who performed autopsy on the deceased.

Ayuba led by Balkson narrated their finding to the panel.

“He died as a result of multiple traumas; break down of blood due to infection or drug and so much bile stain, signifying leakages in the gall bladder.

“His stomach had undigested peppery liquid food and the small intestine was ballooned at intervals,” he said.

House to Commence Debate on 2019 Budget Today Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja Barely 20 minutes after the House of Representatives reconvened yesterday, the lawmakers adjourned till today, indicating readiness to commence the second reading of the 2019 budget.

The Speaker, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, who announced the adjournment, said it was in honour of a member representing Ibeju-Lekki federal constituency of Lagos State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Abayomi Abdul-Kabir Ayeola, who died on December 30, 2018.

He hinted that the House will commence the second reading of the 2019 budget after a valedictory session slated for today -- in

honour of Ayeola and late President Shehu Shagari.

“I hope copies of the budget have been circulated? If copies of the budget have been circulated, we may have to start the second reading of the budget tomorrow,” Dogara stated.

“We will set aside some time to pay tribute in form of valedictory session for our brother, Hon. Ayeola and the late Pres ident , Alhaji Shehu Shagari.”

The Speaker had read from a letter from the brother of the deceased lawmaker, Mr. Oriyomi Ay e o l a , o ff i c i a l l y informing the House about the demise of the late lawmaker at the tail end of last year.

TOWN HALL MEETING...

L-R: Vice presidential candidate/National Chairman, Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN), Mr. Gani Galadima; presidential candidate, ACPN, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili; Director General, ACPN Presidential Campaign, Mr. Ibrahim Goronyo; and Deputy National Chairman, South, ACPN, Chief Bosun Omosule, during a Town Hall meeting with stakeholders in Lagos… yesterday ETOP UKUTT

I Will Continue to Fight Corruption, Buhari Insists Yekini Jimoh in Lokoja

adding that corruption will be eradicated completely from President Muhammadu Buhari the society, noting that he will has stated that his administration continue to secure the country will continue to fight corruption at all cost.

Buhari said he would in the country.

Addressing the people of resuscitate railway transport Kogi State yesterday during his in the country which he presidential campaign in Lokoja, alleged was destroyed by past Buhari said he was impressed administration of the Peoples with the large turnout of people. Democratic Party (PDP).

He warned the people of The presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress Kogi State not to make the (APC) disclosed that corruption mistake of voting for PDP in has affected the development the forthcoming general election.

Also speaking at the campaign of the country.

He stressed that his ground, the Campaign Director administration had been able General, Rotimi Amechi, said to block financial leakages, the election is between APC

and PDP, stressing that APC is the party for the poor while PDP is the party for the rich in the country.

He noted that Itakpe-Warri railway line, when completed, over 1,000 people would be employed.

According to him, “We are struggling to recover the stolen money. You can’t compare 16 years to just four years of Buhari’s administration.

“For 34 years, Itakpe-Warri Rail was abandoned. We have also done well in securing the lives and property of Nigeria.

“We will do more work

if you give us another four years. APC is for the youths, therefore, they should vote and defend their votes.”

The Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, in his speech, thanked the people of the state for the large turnout.

He noted that the choice is between the good and the bad as the people of state have resolved to vote for Buhari.

“We shall win every polling unit in the state. The future belongs to us. Buhari is the only answer for our future to shine. We are already celebrating Buhari’s victory,” he said.

PDP Mocks President over ‘Flopped’ North Central Rally Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Peoples Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Organisation (PPCO) has said the scanty attendance at President Muhammadu Buhari’s campaign rally yesterday in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, was an indication that Nigerians are not ready to return him into office for a second term.

This came as the campaign organisation has assured that its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, would launch a comprehensive National AntiCorruption Strategy within his first 100 days to ensure nobody is spared.

The spokesman of the

main opposition party, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan has also called on the National Peace Committee to immediately sanction the National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole, for his hate comments on the party and PDP leaders at the Kogi State rally.

The PPCO stated that Oshiomhole had out of frustration, resorted to namecalling, abuses and hate comments against Atiku and other respected Nigerian leaders, in a failed bid to cover for their failures in office.

He added that Oshiomole is so over-burdened by allegations of corruption and stealing both,

as governor of Edo State and APC National Chairman, that he believes that accusing others and casting aspersions at the PDP would help him.

According to him, “It is instructive for President Buhari to note how poorly Nigerians responded to his campaign flag-off in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as well as his zonal rallies, where his rented attendees even refused to wave the APC brooms and paid no attention to him whenever he mounted the stage to speak.”

Ologbondiyan stressed that at the Lokoja rally yesterday, Buhari spent less than four minutes in making a ‘’vacuous address’’, issued warning to Nigerians, and

had to beat a hurried conclusion, when he realised that nobody was paying attention.

He said, “President Buhari however, betrayed his unsettled emotions when he told his audience that he was sworn into office on May 19, 2015, instead of May 29, 2015, saying it was a pointer to the level of incompetence with which the nation’s affairs has been handled.”

The PDP asked Buhari to end his playing to the gallery on the fight against corruption and get serious by prosecuting members of his Campaign Council, who all have allegations of corruption hanging on their names.

48

THURSDAY JANUARY 17, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWSEXTRA

Lagos, IFC Sign Agreement on Infrastructure, Revenue Generation Gboyega Akinsanmi The Lagos State Government and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have sealed a major partnership to enhance infrastructure development and strengthen the state’s long-term financial sustainability through improved revenue generation strategies.

The state Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akinyemi Ashade, disclosed the new deal in a statement he issued yesterday, saying the agreement dated January 7 had already been signed.

He said the development would go a long way in helping to scale up municipal infrastructure, increase revenues and generally make life more comfortable to residents of the state.

Ashade said IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, would seek to provide advisory services to enhance infrastructure development in key areas,

including power, education, health, environment and transport, with special focus on provision of electric buses.

He said, “IFC’s advisory services will be designed to improve procurement for key transport projects and support project development in areas including power, transport, municipal waste, health, education and energy efficiency.

“IFC will also be able to advise on strategies and policies for electric buses and ride-hailing services and assist Lagos State on its revenue mobilization strategies.

“We welcome IFC’s support and are confident that signing this memorandum will translate into viable infrastructure projects, expertise building and better access to financing for the benefit of all Lagos residents.”

Also speaking, IFC’s Country Manager, Eme Essien, expressed excitement with the partnership, saying it was in line with the organisation’s programme

tagged ‘IFC’s Cities Initiative’ aimed at mobilising commercial financing for priority urban projects, connect cities with capital markets and help improve municipalities’ creditworthiness through financial management training.

Essien said the programme essentially supports efforts to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities that open new

markets, and create opportunities for all, revealing that a total of $13.5 billion had been invested over the last 15 years across more than 70 countries through the initiative.

“Today’s announcement is only a first step in the building of a long term strategic partnership with the largest municipality in Sub-Saharan Africa. Our objective is to support Lagos

State’s efforts through IFC’s Cities Initiative to improve living conditions, expand and renew its infrastructure, and help reinforce Lagos’s position as an attractive investment destination — and by extension Nigeria’s position.”

With a population of 24 million, Lagos State is Nigeria’s economic epicenter and main hub for commercial and industrial activities, accounting

for more than 30 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Faced with a fast-growing population, the State has been working to improve its economic and social infrastructure to enhance economic development, while it aims to become Africa’s third largest economy, measured by GDP, by 2023.

Don’t Trust New IGYet, Wike Tells Rivers People Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has urged the people of the state to be wary of the promises of fairness and levelplaying ground by the Acting Inspector General of Police (IG), Mohammed Adamu, stating that it is too early to trust the police chief.

This is coming as the governor has said the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state has lost the political struggle in the state due to the greed of a political godfather and was now searching for a party to support in the 2019 elections.

Wike spoke yesterday at Kpite, Tai Local Government Area of the state at the flag-off of the PDP State Campaigns.

The governor said the experiences of the state in the hands of the police during elections were still fresh in the minds of the people and warned them not to trust the new police chief until they see concrete proof of his sincerity.

He however, warned both security and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials to allow the people’s will to be done during the elections as any attempt to rig would result in unpleasant consequences.

“All the people of Rivers State are looking for is free and fair elections, where the people will be allowed to choose their leaders.

“Anybody who rigs election in Rivers State will suffer God’s wrath. If you leave your home to come and rig in Rivers State, your family will suffer the consequences,” he warned.

In apparent reference to series of litigations facing the APC, Wike said the party was already negotiating for another party to support as its chances of running elections were very slim.

“I hear that the APC in Rivers State are negotiating for a

political party to support during the 2019 General elections. But it is already too late,” he said.

He said the APC has attracted no value to Rivers State, hence Rivers people will overwhelmingly vote PDP candidates.

He said he has entered a covenant with Tai people to deliver more projects for them during his second term, noting that they are under obligation to protect their votes during the elections.

The governor said that over the last three and half years, his administration has planted key projects in the area. He announced that in the coming days he would flag off the construction of a General Hospital in the area.

“This is a project I have agreed with Tai people to execute for the benefit of the masses”, he said.

He charged the people of Tai Local Government Area to vote overwhelmingly for PDP Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar during the Presidential elections.

“Buhari does not like Rivers State. The only person that will help Rivers State is Atiku Abubakar. That is why we will vote for him”, the governor said.

Rivers South East Senatorial District PDP Candidate, Mr Barry Mpigi, said the people of the area would vote Wike because the Rivers State Governor is the father of modern Rivers State.

Rivers State PDP Chairman, Bro Felix Obuah said Tai Local Government Area is a fertile ground for PDP because of the key projects executed by Governor Wike.

Hundreds of APC chieftains led by the party’s women leader, Mrs Victoria Mgboh, defected to the PDP. The Former APC Women Leader said they were attracted to the PDP by Wike’s performance.

FOR OLD TIME’S SAKE...

L-R: Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Edward Ubosi; and former governor of the state and Enugu East senatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani, during a courtesy visit of the former governor to the Government House, Enugu… yesterday.

Justice Abang Pays Tribute to Badeh Alex Enumah inAbuja Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday paid glowing tribute to the late Air Marshall Alex Badeh, for the manner he conducted himself, while his trial lasted in his court.

Badeh was being prosecuted by the federal government on an amended 14-count criminal charge, bordering on criminal breach of trust, conversion of funds belonging to the Nigeria Air Force, and money laundering, among others to the tune of N3.9 billion, before he was killed by gunmen along Abuja-Keffi Road,

late last year.

Reacting to his death, the judge recalled how the late Badeh comported himself while in his court.

He said, “Throughout his trial, he never created difficulties for court. He was so peaceful throughout his trial. His conduct was a show of tremendous respect to the court. He was always in court before trial, he never asked for frivolous applications.’’

Justice Abang had adjourned to January 16 for the late Badeh to open up his defence in the alleged

N3.1billion fraud.

However, when the matter was called yesterday, the late Badeh’s counsel, Akin Olujimi (SAN), informed the court of the demise of his client, stating he was murdered on December 19, 2018, on his way from his farm.

Olujimi, accordingly, requested for a short time to liaise with the prosecution on the next line of action.

Reacting, prosecuting counsel, Oluwaleke Atolagbe, did not object to the short adjournment.

He, however, said the defence ought to have furnished the

court with a death certificate, being the court of record.

In a short ruling, Justice Abang, held that no death certificate was required, saying the fact of his death was already in public domain.

“The court is already aware of his death. The Supreme Court made it clear that where a matter is already a public knowledge, the court being a member of the public, does not require certificate of death.”

Justice Abang subsequently adjourned to February 26 for a feedback on the meeting between the prosecution and the defence counsel.

Amnesty Office Warns against Contract Racketeering Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta, Prof.

Charles Dokubo, has warned contractors handling jobs for the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) to implement the contracts in line with the terms of agreement.

The warning, he said, was necessitated by increasing reports

on the sale of contracts awarded to some companies in clear breach of contract agreements with the Amnesty Office.

According to a statement by his Special Assistant (Media), Murphy Ganagana, Dokubo, who is also the PAP Coordinator, noted that contracts awarded by his office were meant for the training and empowerment of beneficiaries of the Programme

in line with its core mandate and objectives.

“It is illegal and criminal for a contractor to be awarded a job and then he goes behind to sell the contract to another individual or company.

“As part of the terms of agreement for contracts awarded by the Presidential Amnesty Office, a contract is not transferable. It should be

satisfactorily implemented,” he said.

He warned that: “Henceforth, any company that engages in sale or contract racketeering after securing a job at the Presidential Amnesty Programme shall have the contract revoked. Contractors are advised to be guided accordingly and adhere strictly to contract terms.”

Emmanuel Promises to Implement Minimum Wage Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has assured that the state government will ensure the full implementation of the proposed new minimum wage for workers in the state.

Emmanuel gave the assurance when he consulted the organised labour unions comprising the

Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the United Labour Congress (ULC) on his second term ambition, at the Workers Solidarity Centre, Atan Offot, Uyo. The governor remarked that the planned legislation by the

federal government for an Act of National Assembly on the minimum wage, has not yet been achieved, adding that Akwa Ibom was also waiting for the direction of the FG in the implementation of the new wage.

“Minimum wage has never

been an issue here, it is only that it has to be under what is called legislation and when something is legislation, it is not only a state, it’s a whole country. So, we are waiting for the direction of the country, once they give us a direction, then we’ll know what to do”, the governor stated.

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‘Local, Foreign Investors Showing Interest in Arik’ Chinedu Eze Arik Air has said that local and foreign investors have indicated interest in the airline following the impressive performance of the airline in receivership.

In a statement signed by the Receiver Manager of the company, Oluseye Opasanya, the airline management said past attempts to resolve the debt issue with legacy shareholders had been frustrated by their insincerity exemplified by the presentation of fake and bogus investment proposals (false

financial backing), confirming the lack of corporate governance and diligence in their approach to business.

Arik Air made this known in reaction to a publication

by THISDAY indicating that investors have not shown firm interest to buy or invest in the airline.

“We assure the flying public that Arik in receivership is operationally sound, professionally run and safe and will continue to be a major and dominant carrier in the aviation industry.

Shun Personal, Sectional Interest, BPE TellsYola Disco Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) has charged members of the management board of the Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) to shun personal and sectional interests in the discharge of their duties.

Inaugurating the board of the company headed by Mr. Gbeleyi Ayodeji yesterday in Abuja, the BPE Director General, Mr. Alex Okoh, reminded the members that they were trustees of the electric distribution company and as such, they should exercise their powers with honesty and diligence.

“As directors, you are trustees of the company’s finances and properties which you must account for in the exercise of your duties with honesty for the interest of the company and the shareholders and not your own interests,” he warned.

A statement issued by the Head of Public Communications, BPE, Amina Tukur Othman, said Okoh informed them that their

responsibilities as directors of the company include fiduciary relationship towards the company and observance of utmost good faith in any transaction with it or on its behalf.

He also charged them to act at all times in the best interests of the company as a whole so as to preserve its assets, further its business and promote the purposes for which it was formed in a faithful, diligent, careful and ordinarily skills.

Okoh equally asked the management board “not to fetter the discretion to vote in a particular way, and have regard in the performance of their functions, including the interests of the company’s employees in general, as well as the interests of its members.”

Responding on behalf of other members, the Chairman of the board, Mr. Ayodeji Gbeleyi, commended the government for the confidence reposed in them and pledged to discharge their duties diligently.

Nigeria’s Ambassador to Cote d’Ivoire Dies Nigeria’s Ambassador to Cote d’Ivoire, Ibrahim Isah, has died, Foreign Affairs Ministry officials, have confirmed.

Sources from the Nigerian Embassy at Deux Plateau, Abidjan, told News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that Isah, aged 60, died at 7p.m. on Tuesday.

The sources said he slumped and died at the Polyclinique Internationale Sainte Anne-Marie (PISAM) where he had gone to see his doctors.

The Interim Chairman of Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire, Musudi Akanfe, told NAN that the entire embassy had been thrown into mourning over the death.

“We are already in a mourning mood, we received this sad news with rude shock, we pray God to console the family and the

Nigerian community,’’ he said.

Speaking to NAN by telephone, the former President, Nigerian Youths in Cote d’Ivoire, Bright Moses, described the death as `shocking and painful’.

“He was a very lively and proactive diplomat, he listened to the plight of the Nigerian people in this country, this is very shocking,’’ he said.

Isah, born in 1959 in Niger State, held a bachelor’s degree in International Studies from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a Master’s degree in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Lagos.

He joined the Foreign Service in 1983 and was posted to Cote D’Ivoire in 2017.

He served in different capacities in the ministry before his death.

“The appointment of a Receiver Manager (RM) (and new management team) by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) on February 9, 2017 was the measure that saved the airline from doom and imminent collapse. When the Receiver Manager came onboard on February 9, 2017, the airline’s status as a going concern was gravely threatened due to its poor management,” the statement said.

It also noted that the fleet was down to only eight serviceable aircraft, many of its assets were abandoned in different parts of the world and the maintenance hangar littered

with unserviceable aircraft and related equipment when the new management took over the airline.

“Even some of the serviceable aircraft were due for various checks. Staff was being owed between four to six months’ salary and staff morale was at the lowest ebb. Fleet insurance was due and the airline basically struggled to pay the premium.

Vendors were being owed colossal amount of trade debts to the extent that no oil marketer was willing to advance trade credit to the airline,” Arik Air management also said.

The statement recalled that the former management found it extremely difficult to pay

for fuel and as a result flight cancellation was rife, on-time performance (OTP), which is a measure of an airline’s ability to meet scheduled flight time plummeted leading to significant customer attrition and loss of confidence.

“Furthermore, regulatory agencies were owed incredulous amounts of money and by way of example, passenger service charges impressed with trust collected on behalf of the government had not been remitted for several years.

So also were huge sums of money deducted from workers’ salaries over many years, which were not remitted to Pension companies. The flying public

was equally owed several millions of Naira and foreign currencies on account of unflown tickets and cancelled flights,” the management said.

It disclosed that when it took over it tried to rebuild the company and the OTP, which had fallen abysmally to 19 per cent a month before AMCON’s intervention, climbed up steadily and currently averages 63.5 per cent; cancellations, which were as high as 40 per cent as at January 2017, has been significantly reduced to less than four per cent and average load factor is currently over 73 per cent whilst aircraft utilisation has also increased by about 50 per cent.

CHANGE OF BATON...

L-R: Deputy Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Dikko; Acting Inspector General of Police , Mr. Mohammed Adamu; and Deputy Inspector General of Police (Operations), Habila Joshak, during the handing over ceremony at the Force Headquarters in Abuja... yesterday KINGSLEY ADEBOYE

Court Fixes Feb 11 for Judgment on Patience Jonathan’s $8.4m Forfeiture Suit Davidson Iriekpen A Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday fixed February 11 to deliver judgment in application seeking final forfeiture of $4.8 million and N7.4 billion allegedly linked to former First Lady, Patience Jonathan.

The EFCC had filed the application against the former first lady and six others.

The others are Globus Integrated Services Limited, Finchley Top Homes Limited, Am-Pm Global Network

Limited, Pagmat Oil and Gas Limited, Magel Resort Limited and Esther Oba, as the second to the seventh respondents, respectively.

The commission had on April 20, 2018, via an ex-parte application, obtained an order for interim forfeiture of the sum, EFCC counsel, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo, on October 29, 2018, filed an application for final forfeiture of the sum.

At the resumed hearing on the suit yesterday, Oyedepo told the court that the EFCC had filed

and served a further affidavit to the respondents’ application to show cause.

Counsel to the respondents, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN), however, opposed from paragraphs eight to paragraph 12 of the affidavit, and prayed the court to expunge them.

According to Ozekhome, the prosecution raised new issues in an attempt to discredit a video exhibit on the case, instead of responding to existing issues.

Justice Mojisola Olatoregun held that there was no need to

expunge the paragraphs, noting that no new issues were raised.

In his submission for final forfeiture, Oyedepo told the court that Mrs. Jonathan, fraudulently diverted funds from Women for Change Initiative, a nongovernmental organisation, linked to her.

According to him, most of the funds were fraudulently diverted from the NGO to other accounts of the second to sixth respondents-companies said to be owned by the former first lady.

Bad Leadership Responsible for Police’s Lost Glory, Says IG Alex Enumah in Abuja Less than 48 hours after he assumed office, the Acting Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, said yesterday that ‘’quality leadership’’, which he plans to bring on board, will restore the lost glory of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

He noted that the NPF is blessed with intellectually gifted, exceptionally dedicated and professionally sound officers and men but said the absence of quality leadership had been the setback of the police.

Adamu who stated this in his maiden speech, during the formal handing over ceremony at the Force headquarters Abuja, said as IG, he would draw from his national and international policing leadership to provide the missing link in ensuring that the dignity of the Force is restored.

“Among you seated in this hall today are some of such thorough-bred and passionate professionals who can hold their own among their peers, and have consistently distinguished themselves in complex national and international engagements. ‘’All that you desire, from my experience, is a transparent, responsive, motivational, accountable and knowledgeable leader who will not only treat you with the dignity you deserve in your line of duty, but who is sensitive to your welfare needs and fair in the manner your promotion and other reward regimes are addressed”, he said.

While he emphasised that the absence of the level of leadership had always been the missing link in policing in Nigeria, he promised to provide the ‘’highest level of professional and responsible leadership’’ that would advance the fortune of the Force.

He, therefore, urged officers and men of the police to henceforth abstain from conducts that will drag the police into disrepute and put their career in jeopardy.

Adamu who said he would soon unveil his strategic plan for the revamping of the police, noted that his priority is to work in concerted efforts with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other stakeholders to ensure that the general elections slated for February and March this year are peaceful and credible.

The Acting IG, however warned that the police will not hesitate to deal with any individual or groups that attempts to conduct themselves or carry out actions that may likely threaten the forthcoming general election.

He added, “While with your support, I am confident that we

have the operational capacity to ensure the success of both exercises; I am not unaware of the possible security threats that some misguided political actors and their followers may attempt to pose during the general election.

“To such elements, I must sound a note of warning that as a nation, we have had enough of electoral violence.

Hence, while Nigeria Police Force under my watch shall work with the Independent National Electoral Commission and sister security agencies in guaranteeing a peaceful and secure space for all political parties and citizens to freely exercise their electoral rights, we shall not hesitate to identify, isolate and bring to deserved justice any person or group that attempts to threaten our sacred democratic order.’’

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Let’s Recover Imo from Enemies, Araraume Tells His People Udora Orizu in Abuja As the Imo State governorship candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Godwin Araraume, formally kicks off his campaign in Owerri, he has called on all sons and daughters of Imo State to rally round him to recover the state from its pitiable socio-political and economic condition, created by people who don’t mean well for the state.

In a press statement issued yesterday by the Media Unit of his campaign organisation, Araraume said his desire to join the governorship race was informed by his strong commitment to correct the wrong of the present state government, in the general interest of the state.

He said he is not contesting the governorship seat to acquire properties, take people’s land or amass dubious wealth because God had blessed him and his family with everything they need in life. ‘’For me, the most challenging aspect is to get our people back. There is high distrust among the people and against the state government. Our people are like a conquered people. The

task is to bring them back to the level they were before and restore their confidence. ‘’In the issue of governance, the starting point is to create policies that will give the people hope. If you look at Imo critically, for instance, the education sector, you will find that nothing is working. The education sector has collapsed.

From the primary education level up to the tertiary level, our education has collapsed. ‘’We need to get back and rebuild confidence. We need to train and retrain the teachers, boost their morale and pay them living wages. What is happening now is that when you go to our schools, you find that our teachers have become traders,” Araraume stated.

On the dilapidation of infrastructure in the state, the two-time Senator said the issues will be addressed aggressively in order to attract both foreign and local business investors, saying Imo State is strategically located for huge investments.

He added, “we need to tackle these and address them immediately. Look also at our local government system. It is dead. Presently, no local government in Imo State gets

their allocation. None; so, you need to work on that; reassure the people and rebuild their confidence; make sure that each local government gets what is due to it and also work with it. ‘’I will ensure that each local government chairman resides within the local government.

It boosts confidence of the people. What obtains today is that no one sees a local government chairman because

he is never in his office. They come around once or twice in a month and disappear.

They come when there is money to pay salary and that is it. Some don’t even go to office.’’

The National Commissioner, representing South-east in the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) is also not happy with the debasement of the revered traditional rulers in

the state by the current state government, promising to quickly address when he assumes office on May 29.

According to him, “If you look at our traditional institution in Imo state, you will find that it has been destroyed and reduced to nothing. By the last count, we have more than 600 autonomous communities and our Ezes have been reduced to nothing. They are made to come to the

stadium for match past, like students, when a dignitary visits the state. ‘’That is not done anywhere in the world. So, to restore the dignity of the traditional institution, and bring back the respect that they used to have, has to happen.’’

More importantly, the governorship hopeful said, is the issue of good governance, saying there is urgent need to recover Imo and bring it back.

Ikeja Electric Cautions Public against Activities Around Power Lines In a renewed commitment to its high safety standards, Ikeja Electric Plc has cautioned the public in its network against building structures and engaging in social and economic activities under power lines.

The company said the specific clearance/distance which the public must maintain away from a 33/11KV lines is 5.5 metres (20ft) on both sides, while for 132KV lines, the distance must be 15 metres (50ft) on both sides and 330KV lines must have a clearance of 25metres (60ft) on both

sides.

The electricity distribution company (Disco) Head of Quality, Safety, Health and Environment (QHSE), Jamiu Badmos, explained that carrying out social and economic activities under power lines exposes people’s lives to danger, leading to the risk of electrocution.

According to him, fatality within the energy sector can be prevented if the public religiously adhere to precautions and avoid activities close to electrical installations.

“As a responsible service

provider, we are aware of our obligation to ensure that every resident within our network is kept safe, especially bearing in mind the hazardous nature of electricity so we are using this medium to remind the public that electrical installations are harmful and must be avoided as much as is possible. Our appeal to customers to avoid activities under power lines must be taken seriously, especially as the integrity of old cables cannot always be guaranteed,” he said.

Badmos revealed that

even with the huge resources the Disco has spent on enlightenment campaigns to sensitise the public on inherent dangers of life-threatening activities, some people have remained adamant.

He further called for the intervention of the government and relevant stakeholders in stemming this “ugly development” by declaring activities under power line as illegal, and moving people and markets away from the danger spots to save lives and property.

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Court Orders Final Forfeiture of Ex-Air Chief, Amosu’s N2.7bn to FG Davidson Iriekpen A Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday ordered the final forfeiture of N2.7 billion recovered from a former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Adesola Amosu, to the federal government.

The presiding judge of the court, Justice Mojisola Olatoregun, made the order sequel to an ex-parte application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on June 7, 2018.

The anti-graft agency had said the sum was reasonably suspected to be proceeds of an unlawful activity.

The judge had earlier granted an interim order for the forfeiture of the total sum of N2,244,500,000 recovered by EFCC from Amosu who was first respondent in the suit.

She had also granted an order for the forfeiture of N190,828,978.15 recovered from a former Nigeria Air Force (NAF) Director of Finance and Budget, Air Commodore Olugbenga Gbadebo (rtd).

Justice Olatoregun further ordered the forfeiture of N101 million recovered from Solomon

Enterprises, a company linked to Amosu.

She directed the EFCC to publish the interim order in The Nation and Punch newspapers so that the respondents or anyone interested can show cause as to why the final order of forfeiture should not be made in favour of the federal government.

Amosu and an interested party, Air Vice Marshal Bolaji Adigun, had filed counteraffidavits, arguing that the funds were proceeds of their personal businesses and not from an illegal activity.

At the resumed hearing of the case yesterday, Justice Olatoregun dismissed the applications, saying that they failed to provide the necessary facts.

“Upon examination of the two applications asking the interim orders to be set aside, dated July 28, 2018 from the first respondent and the interested party, I found nothing to set aside the order, and the applications are hereby dismissed.

“The only conclusion I can reach is that these funds are proceeds of an unlawful activity.

“The court has an inherent power

to vary or discharge an interim order given, the affidavits filed disclosed no reason why the order of final forfeiture should not be made.

“I hereby order the final forfeiture of these sums to the Federal Government of Nigeria: N2,244,500,000, N190,828,978.15 and N101 million.

“The funds should be paid into the nominated GTBank treasury single account of the federal government and an affidavit of compliance filed within 14 days.”

Olatoregun ruled.

Amosu, Gbadebo and former NAF Chief of Accounts and Budgeting, Air Vice Marshal Jacob were standing trial before Justice Mohammed Idris of the same court before he was elevated to the Court of Appeal.

The trial is expected to resume afresh before Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke.

EFCC accused them of converting N21billion from NAF through various companies, namely Delfina Oil and Gas Ltd, Mcallan Oil and Gas Ltd, Hebron Housing and Properties CompanyLtd, Trapezites BDC, Fonds and Pricey Ltd, Deegee Oil and Gas Ltd, Timsegg Investment Ltd and Solomon Health Care Ltd.

Akinlade Promises to Empower Traders, Artisans, Farmers, Others In his bid to make Ogun State a better place for all, the governorship candidate of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) in Ogun State, Hon. Adekunle Akinlade, has promised to make loans and grants accessible to traders, artisans, farmers as well as small scale entrepreneurs.

Akinlade disclosed this in Ikenne Local Government Area during his ward to ward campaign tour to the area.

According to him, market men and women, farmers, artisans and other business owners would get access to grants and soft loans to boost their income.

Akinlade, who has earlier promised to create 25,000 jobs in his first two years in office, alerted that people who own small and medium scale

enterprises are missing out as a result of their inability to access grants from both national and international agencies.

He added that those enjoying the grants hitherto were people from other parts of the nation because they were well informed of the processes.

The governorship hopeful said his experience as a lawmaker at the House of Representatives had availed him the opportunity to make the grants and loans accessible to the people of Ogun State.

He said “the APM would make life more abundant for traders, artisans, farmers and other small and medium scale business owners in the state.

“There will be access to grants and loans for everybody who is interested, regardless of his or her political affiliation.

“Our people here are not enjoying all these grants because they don’t know how to access them.

“I can tell you with all sense of responsibility that majority of those accessing grants are people from a section of Nigeria I don’t want to mention.

“The good news is that my experience as a lawmaker has given me the opportunity to learn how to access the grants, even from the World Bank.

“Once you vote for me and I become the governor of this state, we will be make these grants and loans accessible to the good people of Ogun State.”

Akinlade therefore charged voters in Ogun State to get their permanent voter cards (PVC) ready for the coming general elections; urging them not to sell it to anybody.

Northern Leaders Differ on Nigeria’s Suitable Political System John ShiklaminKaduna Northern political leaders yesterday differed on the best political system suitable for the country, between the presidential and parliamentary systems.

The leaders who converged in Kaduna for the 2019 Annual Lectures and Merit Award of the Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation, noted that the two systems have their advantages and disadvantages but differed on which iof them that is-less prone to abuse and risks.

In a keynote address, Prof. Dakas Clement Dakas highlighted the high points and weakness of the two systems and suggested ways of addressing the problems.

Dakas in his paper entitled: “A comparison of the 1963 and 1999 Constitution: the Choice between a parliamentary and presidential

system of government”added that operating the two systems also depend on the political players.

Also in his contributions Prof.

Awalu Yadudu , maintained that Nigeria adopted the presidential system because the problem of regions was so serious then and a process that requires that the president must be accepted by majority of the people of the country was best suited for that kind of situation.

He noted that another disadvantage of the parliamentary system is that the nation has practiced the presidential system of government for 24 years while it practiced the parliamentary system for only four years, pointing out that going back to the parliamentary system, will mean learning afresh as most of those who have practiced it then are not around.

However, the spokesman of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) and a former Vice Chancellor of the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Prof. Ango Abdullahi, in his contributions expressed support for the return to parliamentary system.

Abdullahi who has been an advocate of the parliamentary system, argued that the military did not give the political class the choice to decide which system of government to adopt during the constitutional conference, but imposed the idea on the political class.

He said Nigeria is nowhere near a democracy as the process that leads to the emergence of political leaders does not give room for the best to emerge, noting that only those with money emerges as the process is proned to corruption.

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FG Moves against Scourge of Drug Abuse Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The federal government said it had put in place a number of measures to curb the menace of drug abuse across the country.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, made the disclosure yesterday, while declaring open a three-day annual workshop of the Civil Society Network on Substance and Drug Abuse in Abuja.

The SGF, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office (GSO), Mr. Olusegun Adekunle, said the scourge of drug and substance abuse in the country was posing a serious challenge to the primary healthcare facilities.

He also rued the associated negative impact on national welfare and security that the scourge was becoming.

The SGF noted that the scourge has assumed a global dimension such that every responsible government will take appropriate action to root it out of its territory.

He lamented that virtually all segments of the society were impacted by the plague, adding further that its effects on the youths, who are the worst hit is becoming worrisome.

He also noted that many Nigerian youths who are victims of the scourge, are either incarcerated or are on death row in several countries across the world, either as traffickers or as users of these illicit substances.

He called for a holistic approach that would benefit the society and also for posterity and survival of the country.

Mustapha assured that the government will continue to strengthen the country’s drug law enforcement capacities and capabilities and give

$350m World Bank Loan Will Impact Positively on Ogun, Says Amosun Femi Ogbonnikan in Abeokuta Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, yesterday said successive administration in the state will start accessing $350 million loan obtained from the World Bank for the development of the state.

The governor said the loan would impact largely on the 50-year master plan developed by his administration for the state.

Amosun made the disclosure during his wardto-ward campaign tour of Obafemi Owode Local Government Area as part of his Ogun Central senatorial campaign.

He described the loan as a grant from the World Bank that has one percent interest rate and a five-year moratorium, saying he has finished the paper works and met all requirements for the release of the fund.

Amosun said his administration, beyond the infrastructural development, has developed a 50-year sustainable development plan for the state which covers education, infrastructure and other sectors.

He said the sustainable plan was part of the requirements by the World Bank before collaborating with the state and added that he has started with the implementation of the plan.

Speaking further on the master plan, Amosun said there is a plan to construct a major ring road that will cut across Kobape, Idi-Aba, Odeda, among others in Ogun Central, insisting that there can’t be any development without infrastructure.

According to him, “Before we came in, there was Ogun State master plan, but that one which covered about 30 years has ended so what we did was

to invite some development partners, including World Bank and GIZ, and we did what we called sustainable development plan.

“First for 10 years, 20 years, 30 years, 40 years and stopped at 40 years. We have envisioned where we want the state to be in the immediate, short term, medium term and long term, and that is why the World Bank is collaborating with us. It was one of the things World Bank requested that we have and that is what we did.

“That is why they approve the grant they want to give to us. I won’t call it loan because if you imagine one percent for 25 years with five years moratorium, that can’t be loan, that will only qualify for a grant.

“And to the glory of God, they are giving us $350 million. I have done the works, and the next government will begin to reap it.”

In education, we know where we want to be, including health and other areas like infrastructure, “and that is why we are making sure our airport is in place.

“If we are the industrial hub of Nigeria then that comes with a lot of challenge.

“Manufacturers in the state want to stay in Abeokuta, Sagamu, Ota, and they don’t want to be running to Lagos to do their business. We know what to do, but there can’t be development without infrastructure.”

Amosun, while calling on the state indigenes to embrace continuity of his administration in the forthcoming election, he said: “It is clear that no governor can finish everything and that is why we should not allow anybody to come and dictate for us in the state.”

attention to preventive measures, while taking cognisance of the health care needs of those that have become dependent

on illicit drugs.

The government also thanked the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) for the collaboration to tackle

the scourge.

It will be recalled that in recognition of the side effects of drug and substance abuse, President Muhammadu

Buhari, had constituted a two-tier Presidential Intervention Structure on the Elimination of Drug Abuse.

LEGISLATIVE BUSINESS RESUMES...

R-L: President of the Senate, Senator Bukola Saraki; Chairman Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), Gabiru Marafa; and Chairman, Senate Committee on Rules and Business, Senator Baba Kaka Gabai, during the resumption of Senate in Abuja...yesterday JULIUS ATOI/THISDAY IMAGES

Tension in Ekiti FederalVarsity as ASUU Members Disrupt Zonal Congress Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti Tension at the Federal University in Oye Ekiti, as aggrieved members yesterday violently disrupted a congress of the union that was convened by the Akure zonal chairman, Prof.

Olu Olufayo over call for the resignation of the Academic Staff Union of the University (ASUU) Chairman in the institution, Dr. Akinyemi Omonijo.

Trouble started a few months ago when a faction of the chapter loyal to the zonal chairman of the union in Akure, Ondo zonal district, Olufayo, including the embattled chairman of the chapter, Omonijo held a press briefing in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State capital, and raised some allegations of misconduct against the vice chancellor, Prof. Kayode Soremekun.

The angry members who outnumbered those loyal to the embattled FUOYE’s ASUU faction led by Omonijo seized ASUU’s vehicle that conveyed the zonal boss to the premises of the university for more than

three hours threatening to set it ablaze.

It however, took the intervention of the school’s Chief Security Officer (CSO) who appealed to the aggrieved faction to release the vehicle before normalcy was restored.

The angry lecturers insisted that the embattled chairman of the chapter, Omonijo must first step aside before any Congress would hold on the campus.

It was gathered that the congress of the academic union was about to hold at about 11:Pm at the venue on Wednesday under the supervision of Olufayo when angry members stormed the venue to stop the meeting, rang bell, made so much noise and chased away those who wanted it to hold.

A leader of the union and Dean of Faculty of Arts of the university, Dr. Opoola Bolanle Tajudeen, who spoke about the cause of the disruption said: “There was to be a congress but there was no congress because our members felt strongly that Olufayo, who has been part

of our problem in this chapter should not come to foist any congress on us and they insisted that he cannot hold any congress when the chairman of our chapter that he is imposing on us has committed impeachment offences.

“There has been a resolution on ground that the chairman has committed impeachable offences and should go.

“Our people really felt bad and demonstrated their grievances. They spoke their mind. However there was no casualty. The demands of our members who insist they are still part of ASUU is that current chairman of our branch Omonijo should step down because he has committed impeachable offences.

Our people cannot allow a system where some people from outside would come and lord over us. We have our own internal problem and we should be allowed to solve it internally. Our people want ASUU to move on but we don’t want Omonijo again, “he said.

The allegations, one of which was that the VC wasn’t paying the pensions of academic staff as at when due, was dismissed by the VC and a faction of FUOYE ASUU opposed to Omonijo, which included Prof. Omolayo, Opoola Bolanle and many others, who insisted that remitting of staff pension was never a duty of the university management but that of the federal government through the Single Treasury Account (TSA) programme.

The anti-Omonijo’s faction claimed that the embattled chairman has committed impeachable offences by working against the unity, progress and success of the FUOYE chapter of the union and not carrying them along in decision making, being high handed among others.

They therefore began an impeachment process against Omonijo in their last congress held in October last year.

Reacting to the allegations, Omonijo told journalists that he had not committed any offence for which he could be removed by the House.

Igbo Canadian Community Endorses Atiku Ugo Aliogo and Oluchi Chibuzor The board of the Igbo Canadian Community Association (ICCA/ UMUNNA) has endorsed the candidacy of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, and Mr. Peter Obi, for the office of the President and Vice President on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 general election.

According to statement issued to THISDAY by the President, Ugochukwu Okoro, Chairman, Board of Trustees, Benjamin Allison and others, it was noted that in reaching the decision, association

took consideration of the state of the nation and the blurred horizon, “and increasing despair of ordinary Nigerians who are the worst affected.”

“In reaching the decision, association took consideration the state of the nation and the blurred horizon, “and increasing despair of ordinary Nigerians who are the worst affected,” the statement noted.

Okoro and Allison in the statement explained that the Atiku and Obi are bridge builders that would bring some measure of stability, calm and trust in governance and belief in the

country, adding that the country is going through divisiveness that is as scary as it is gruesome.

The statement explained that the country is embroiled in a government that has no misgivings about the welfare of the citizenry, stating that the country is an establishment which has shown unrepentant penchant for nepotism.

It also added that leaders that has demonstrated unapologetic ethnicity and open display of sectionalism in carrying out affairs of the state, while the economy has never been so negatively impacted.

The statement further noted that the country is experiencing

massive unemployment and job losses, progressive demise of industries, increased brain drain, and a failing health sector, “which those in leadership have no faith, while the youth populations have been left desperate to the extent of taking dangerous and sometimes fatal adventures in their bid to survive.”

According to the statement: “Today Judicial authority is not recognised; courts processes are arrogantly disregarded; security agencies have become executioners with institution of democracy invaded randomly while insecurity, killing and tears have become a daily occurrence

5 ) * 4 % ": t THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

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THURSDAY SPORTS

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

Court Suspends Warrant of Arrest for Pinnick, Four Others Duro Ikhazuagbe Attempts by the Okoi ObonoObla-led Special Presidential Investigative Panel (SPIP) to arrest President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and four other board members on allegations of corruption suffered a set back on Monday as the earlier warrant of arrest granted to the body has been suspended.

An Abuja Chief Magistrate District Court II, sitting at Wuse Zone 2 and presided by his Worship Mabel T. Segun Bello, through its order put in abeyance the warrant of arrest it had issued previously to the Obono-Obla panel against some elected officials of NFF, namely; Amaju Melvin Pinnick (NFF President), Seyi Akinwunmi, Shehu Dikko, Ahmed Yusuf and Dr. Sanusi Mohammed, its General Secretary.

A statement from the law

firm of Mamman, Nasir & Co, counsels representing the NFF, yesterday maintained that the warrant was obtained by SPIP erroneously “as it ultra vires the enabling law establishing SPIP.�

The statement signed by Muhammad Sani Katu Esq, stressed that this fresh order for the maintenance of status quo thereby suspending the execution of the warrant of arrest was made on 14th day of January, 2019 under the hand of the presiding judge of the Court (Chief District Judge II). “The Court made the order after hearing our clients’ application No. MN/04/2019 challenging the jurisdiction of the court, among others. “By the same order, the SPIP has now been put on notice to appear before the Court to answer to other fundamental and substantial issues of law put forward by our clients in

Amaju Pinnick...NFF President

the matter, including the fact that there is no basis whatsoever for a warrant of arrest to be issued against them under the law,� observed the statement.

It further stated that notwithstanding this positive and deserved outcome, expected by our clients, “we hold unto their firm instructions to pursue with utmost diligence and determination Suit No. FC/ABJ/

CS/17/2019 pending separately at the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, which our clients have instituted against Chief Obono Obla and SPIP for violating our clients’ rights under the law and, acting outside and contrary to the enabling law setting up SPIP.�

The law firm further averred that: “For the avoidance of any doubt, our clients reiterate most categorically that there are no charges against them existing anywhere, as they have not committed any crimes under the law, whatsoever. “They maintain that this whole lamentable matter is nothing more than the machination of some persons who are adverse to competing fairly for the leadership of NFF, but desperately wish to be foisted on the federation (NFF) by external forces, who are apparently misled. “Our clients are, therefore, confident that this conspiracy

will surely be defeated in time,� the statement maintained.

On behalf of Pinnick and the four others board members, the law firm of Mamman. Nasir & Co expressed NFF’s appreciation to all its sponsors, partners and other stakeholders for their steadfast loyalty and support. “They should rest assured that NFF remains committed to the orderly, transparent and accountable management of its affairs at all times, in keeping with best global standards,� the statement concluded.

Last Friday, four operatives of the SPIP had stormed the NFF’s Glass House in Abuja to effect the arrest warrant on NFF President, Amaju Pinnick and four other top NFF officials.

The SPIP had obtained a warrant of arrest from an Abuja Magistrate Court penultimate Tuesday for the NFF President; First Vice President, Seyi Akin-

wunmi; Second Vice President, Shehu Dikko; NFF Secretary General, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi and Ahmed Yusuf.

In swift reaction to what it termed trial by media, the NFF counsel had bemoaned the “orchestrated media campaign� against its clients and the use of an “online media mob� to promote the pre-determined media reportage of the activities of Obono-Obla and SPIP. “It must be pointed out that while these publications of the news of the warrant of arrest started on Wednesday, 9th January, 2019, the date on the face of the eventual published warrant unlawfully obtained from a magistrate’s court in Abuja is Thursday, 10th January, 2019,� it noted in an earlier statement issued before heading to get the suspension of the said warrant of arrest on Monday.

Rohr Gives Lokosa Hope after Esperance FC Move AFCON 2019 Femi Solaja with agency report Ahead of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations this summer in Egypt, Super Eagles Head Coach, Gernot Rohr, has given hope to former Kano Pillars striker, Junior Lokosa to return to the national team following his move to Esperance of Tunisia during the week.

Lokosa was a last minute drop from the final list of 23 players to the World Cup finals in Russia last year and the decision generated a lot of discussion in the media because many sees the young striker as a shinning light from the repackaged domestic football league. In an interview with Radio France yesterday in Abuja, the Franco-German tactician stated that if the player is able to prove his worth with the North African team, it will

surely boost his chances to return to Super Eagles in preparation for the African elite football tournament in Egypt. “Signing for Esperance of Tunisia is good for his career and that will help improve his goal scoring ability. Lokosa is a good player but only good outing with Esperance of Tunisia will determine his return to the Super Eagles,� he remarked.

On Monday, Lokosa who was the highest goal scorer with 19 goals last season finally moved to Tunisia which pundits speculated was made possible on the recommendation of the Super Eagles coach because the striker did not undergo any trial before he signed the two-year contract for the club.

Esperance FC is the defending champion of the CAF Champions League in which Lobi Stars of Makurdi is participating.

N P F L M AT C H D AY 2

GO Round FC, Heartland Grab Maximum Points Go Round FC grabbed maximum three points away in Umuahia on the Match-day two of the 2018/19 season of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) yesterday with a 2-1 defeat of Abia Warriors.

It was the second straight defeat for the Abia team in the new season that kicked off last Sunday.

Goals from Ololade Sadiq and substitute Emmanuel Ugwu set the Omoku team on the path of victory.

Elsewhere in Okigwe, Heartland were 3-0 winners at home against Plateau United.

Former Enyimba star Chinonso Okonkwo scored a brace for Heartland to smash past 10-man Plateau United 3-0. Defender Gabriel Wassa was sent off in first half stoppage time after he bagged his second booking of the day.

FC Ifeanyiubah needed a stoppage time winner against Nasarawa United to claim their first win of the NPFL season

The Nnewi-based team who held Plateau United to a scoreless draw in their opening game of the season last Sunday, owe their home win to a stoppage time winner by skipper Chijoke Alaekwe.

At the Agege Stadium, MFM FC were 2-0 winners over visiting Kwara United. MFM FC produce two goals in the second half to earn their first points, which lift them from the bottom of the table to second place behind Enyimba on inferior goal difference. Niger Tornadoes were held to a 1-1 draw by Rivers United.

NPFLMATCHDAY2

RESULTS Heartland 3-0 Plateau Utd MFM 2-0 Kwara Utd Abia Warriors 1-2 Go Round IfeanyiUbah 1-0 Nasarawa Utd Tornadoes 1-1 Rivers Utd TODAY El-Kanemi Vs Kano Pillars

Junior Lokosa at his first training session at Esperance ‌yesterday The former First Bank of Lagos striker had on different occasions made three failed attempts for

a deal in Europe.

Lokosa was part of the international friendly match against

Super Falcons up against China’s Steel Roses in Meizhou Wuhua African champions the Super Falcons of Nigeria have an interesting start to their preparations for the 8th FIFA Women’s World Cup finals as they tackle China’s women national team, nicknamed Steel Roses, in the Four-Nation China Tournament this evening.

Korea Republic and Romania, the other participating teams, will clash in the tournament opening match, from 3pm China time (8am Nigeria time), before the Falcons and the Roses take to the pitch at Huitang Stadium at 7.35pm China time, which will be 12.35pm in Nigeria.

Falcons took to the Wu Hua Olympic Sports Centre of the Huitang Stadium for their first training session since arriving in China. Sweden-based defender Faith Michael and midfielder Rita Chikwelu, as well as England-based forward Ini-Abasi Umotong and Portugalbased Chinaza Uchendu flew direct from Europe and joined the team in Meizhou city.

China’s Steel Roses is among the most respected teams in

women football globally and will certainly afford the nine-time African champions a good match.

On its part, Nigeria’s Super Falcons is one of only seven teams to have qualified for every edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup finals since the competition was launched in China in 1991. The others are the women national teams of USA, Brazil, Germany, Sweden, Norway and Japan.

The winner of Thursday’s encounter will clash with the winner of the Korea Republic/ Romania fixture in Sunday’s final, slated to kick off at 7.35pm China time (12.35pm Nigeria time). The losers play the third place match starting from 3pm China time (8am Nigeria time) also on Sunday, and at the same Huitang Stadium.

Should the Falcons prevail over the Steel Roses and the Koreans subdue the Romanians, Sunday’s final would be an interesting preview of the FIFA World Cup Group A clash between Nigeria and Korea Republic scheduled for Grenoble on 12th June.

Atletico Madrid in Uyo last year which Super Eagles Team B lost 1-2 to the Spanish side.

The player had his first training session with Esperance last night.

Absence of Imo,OkoronkwoWon’tAffect Amazons’Title Defence,Says Danjuma Nasarawa Amazons Head Coach, Chris Danjuma has vowed to successfully defend the league crown at the upcoming Nigeria Women Premier League (NWPL) Super 4 despite the absence of two key players, Amarachi Okoronkwo and Anam Imo. The duo recently headed to Europe to pursue their professional career with the Hungarian giants, Ferenavarosi Torna Club.

The two-some were standout at the 2018 Africa Women Cup of Nations (AWCON) in Ghana where Nigeria claimed her ninth title.

Anam Imo still holds the bragging rights as the top scorer of the 2017/18 NWPL regular season and was crucial for her side coming top of their group on a princely 29 points.

The 2018 NWPL Super 4 tournament will hold from January 23 to January 26 among the quartet, reigning champions, Nasarawa Amazons, Bayelsa Queens, Sunshine Queens and 2018 Aiteo Cup winners, Rivers

Angels.

Danjuma insisted that his side have tens of the duo, Imo and Okoronkwo in their fold to make the title defence quite an easy ride. “The 2018 Nigeria Women Premier League (NWPL) Super 4 title will return back to Lafia at the end of the days’ proceedings. “Nasarawa Amazons are the defending champions of the Nigerian women topflight and we are coming to Lagos to show our stuff aimed at retaining the title. “People are already expressing deep worries over our ability to defend the title due to the absence of our two key players, Anam Imo and Amarachi Okoronkwo. “Yes, the two players were key members of the team and quite useful to the team’s past achievements. “We will certainly feel their absence at the NWPL Super 4 no doubt about it but nobody is indispensable. I’m confident their absence will not hinder us from retaining the league crown.

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THURSDAYSPORTS AUSTRALIAN OPEN

Wozniacki to Face Sharapova in Third Round

L-R Tay Bee San

Caroline Wozniacki (left) has set up clash with Maria Sharapova in the Third Round of the 2019 Australian Open Defending champion Caroline Wozniacki eased into the third round of the 2019 Australian Open yesterday with a straight-set win over Sweden’s Johanna Larsson.

The Danish third seed needed just 66 minutes to beat world number 75 Larsson 6-1 6-3.

Wozniacki will face Maria Sharapova, who won the tournament in 2008, in the third round on Friday.

Russia’s Sharapova, a fivetime Grand Slam champion, swept past Rebecca Peterson of Sweden 6-2 6-1. “That’s a tough third round,� said Sharapova, the 30th seed. “There’s no secret she loves

playing out here. I’ve set up the challenge and I’ll need to go out there and take it.�

Three-time Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber overcame Beatriz Haddad Maia 6-2 6-3.

The German, who won the Australian Open title in 2016, made just 10 unforced errors to the Brazilian’s 39.

She will face wildcard Kimberly Birrell next after the world number 240 stunned 29th seed Donna Vekic.

The Australian, 20, beat Croatia’s Vekic 6-4 4-6 6-1 to reach the third round of a Grand Slam for the first time.

Two-time Wimbledon cham-

pion Petra Kvitova made quick work of her second-round match against Romania’s Irina-Camelia Begu.

The Czech, seeded eighth, won 6-1 6-3 in 69 minutes and will face Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic next.

American Sloane Stephens, the 2017 US Open winner, set up a third-round meeting with Petra Martic after seeing off Hungary’s Timea Babos 6-3 6-1.

Ninth seed Kiki Bertens suffered a surprise exit to world number 42 Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, despite the Dutch player taking the opening set. Russian Pavly-

Glo Backs Special Olympics Contingent to 2019 Summer Games in UAE Telecoms data grandmasters, Globacom, has thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s quest to excel at the next Special Olympic World Summer Games slated for Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates, from Thursday, March 14 to Thursday, March 21, 2019.

Nigeria will join other 171 countries to compete for medals in track and field events, featuring athletes with intellectual disabilities; among them being those with Autism, Down’s syndrome and several forms of learning disorders.

To boost the Nigerian contingent’s performance at the games, Globacom is sponsoring some of the team members to the Olympics.

At a brief presentation cer-

emony at its Mike Adenuga Towers head office in Lagos on Wednesday, the company presented cheques to three of the beneficiaries.

The beneficiaries who received their cheques include; Miss Tejumola Ogunlela, aquatics; Chima Maduakor – Track and field; Oyinkansola Givens Joseph – Badminton.

The donation is meant to cover the cost of training and travel for the individual athletes.

Presenting the cheques to the athletes, Globacom’s Executive Director of Legal Services, Mrs. Gladys Talabi said that it was not the first time the company was supporting the Nigerian Contingent to the Special Olympics, recalling that

in 2011, Globacom sponsored the Nigerian contingent who returned from Athens in Greece with a total of 27 medals comprising nine gold, nine silver and nine bronze medals.

Talabi said that the company was sponsoring this year’s participation because it believes in the goals of the games, which include, among other things, to improve lives of the special children, helping them to reach their full potential, and to create greater social inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities.

She commended the young athletes, for their courage and determination even in the face of disability.

uchenkova, a quarter-finalist in Melbourne two years ago, won 3-6 6-3 6-3.

Australian Ashleigh Barty impressed the home crowd on Rod Laver Arena as the 15th seed saw off China’s Yafan Wang 6-2 6-3 in little over an hour. “I feel great,� said Barty. “It’s certainly nice to be playing in Australia and playing well.�

In the men’s singles, second seed Rafael Nadal reached the third round of the Australian Open with a straightforward victory over Australia’s Matthew Ebden.

The Spaniard, a 17-time Grand Slam champion, overcame his

47th-ranked opponent 6-3 6-2 6-2 in Melbourne.

Nadal is aiming to become the first man in the Open era to win each of the four Grand Slam titles at least twice.

The 32-year-old will play Alex de Minaur after his battling 6-4 6-2 6-7 (9-7) 4-6 6-3 win over Henri Laaksonen.

Ebden had an early chance to take the lead, creating three break points on the Nadal serve in the first set.

However he was unable to convert them, with a missed backhand volley allowing Nadal back into the game before the Spaniard held for 4-3.

Nadal - who won the Melbourne title in 2009 - then broke in the next game as Ebden double faulted and served out the first set in 35 minutes.

His remodelled, quicker serve worked well, with Nadal hitting six aces and winning 81% of first-serve points.

The only slight sign of nerves came when Nadal served for the match, with Ebden saving match point before creating another break opportunity.

However, Nadal produced a fine body serve to wrong-foot his opponent and hit a clean forehand winner to secure the match.

A C C E S S B A N K L A G O S C I T Y M A R AT H O N

50,000 Runners Collect Kits, Says Alli The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon projection of 150,000 runners at the start of 10km and full marathon on February 2, 2019 looks realistic as over 50,000 runners have collected kits at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere collection centre and Tafawa Balewa Square Lagos collection centre as at January 16, 2019.

The collection of kits started from Wednesday, January 7, 2019, and is to end January 28, 2019.

The General Manager, Marathon, Yussuf Alli, said: “Our

target of 150,000 is achievable going by the number of entries we have received so far.

Though the collection of physical forms have since closed, interested runners can still apply on or before Friday, January 18, 2019.’’ Alli advised runners living in Ajah, Lekki, Epe, Victoria Island, Ikoyi and other locations in Epe, Ibeju-Lekki and Eti-Osa not to bother coming to the Teslim Balogun but to make use of the collect centre on Lagos Island.

Alli revealed that the 2019 race will be bigger and better, “we have made provision for the expected figure of participants. I am assuring every 10km race runner that finished under two hours will get a medal, ditto the 42km runners that finished under the cut off time of seven hours.�

The General Manager revealed that runners who could not finish due to fatigue or any other reason should please cooperate with sweepers, who would take them back to Teslim Balogun Stadium.

Work & Play Unveils Lagos and Other Motorsports Commitments for 2019 The Coordinator of the Work and Play Rally Series, Mr Omolade Olumide has revealed that the outfit has secured the partnership of Lagos State government to stage the Lagos Auto Rally in 2019. This latest addition has increased the number of cities for the Motorsports promotion to four.

According to him, “We have gotten the support of the Lagos government to organise the Lagos Auto Rally this year.

The race in Lagos would be the fourth city that our event would be touching down in the country.�

He said the Lagos Auto Rally like all the events that Work and Play organised in the past, are in accordance with FIA (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile) protocols and fully backed by the Federal Road Safety Corps. “The Lagos State government officials have been impressed with the level of professionalism with which other events have been organised and the number of endorsements we have secured and agreed to partner us for this landmark event. Full details will be unveiled soon,� he added.

The Work and Play series

zoomed off from Sagamu in Ogun State in 2017 and has since been to Akure in November 2017 and 2018. The Ondo Rally was staged before the Zuru Auto Rally in Kebbi.

Olumide said that “The impact we have had in Ogun and especially Ondo State and the professionalism and partnerships that our events have attracted are massive.

We have been getting proposals from auto racing communities in different part of the country for us to come and have our events in their cities.�

L-R: Chairman, Organising Committee, 2019 BOS Lagos Community Soccer Challenge Cup, Mr. Tayo Aderinola; Member, Bose Kafo and Assistant General Manager, Winner Bet Limited, Mr. Deji Beechroft, during a media briefing on the Five-a-Side football Tournament for Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, in Ikeja Lagos......yesterday KOLA OLASUPO

Thursday, January 17, 2019

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MISSILE Kola Ologbondiyan to Ibrahim Idris “He defied the need to secure troubled areas and watched carelessly while an integral part of our nation was engulfed in bloody clashes. Idris will also be remembered as that police officer who had a penchant for framing innocent Nigerians with ridiculous allegations. Throughout his inglorious tenure, he functioned as the commander of the militant wing of the APC, just to retain his office” – PDP Spokesman, Kola Ologbondiyan on Ibrahim Idris who retired as IGP on Tuesday.

OLUSEGUNADENIYI THE VERDICT

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Jungle Justice for Chief Justice?

W ith the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) latching on to the trial of Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Walter Onnoghen to make all manner of accusations and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) responding in kind, what is going on today is akin to what followed the suspension in 2011 by President Goodluck Jonathan of the then President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Ayo Salami. Interestingly, the antagonists of yesterday are now the protagonists of today. Meanwhile, Mrs. Ayo Obe has clearly spelt out the moral, political and legal principles regarding this matter in her Monday intervention on Twitter.

A Yoruba adage teaches that when trees fall on trees, any attempt to clear the debris must begin from the top. So, it is important we first look at the political issue. The petition was received on 9th January and two days later, charges were already filed for the CJN to appear before the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

By linking his allegations to “the imminence of the 2019 elections and the overwhelming role of the judiciary both before and after the election”, the petitioner, who once worked for the president, has given the game away. That a private individual could access the assets declaration form of the CJN and secure his bank details speaks to an abuse of power at certain levels. Besides, the letter written on Monday by the office of the AGF seeking to freeze the CJN bank accounts confirms that the so-called NGO was acting a script written elsewhere.

On the moral side, serious questions also arise about how the CJN, a public official and head of the judiciary in our country, came about such a huge amount of money which he reportedly forgot to declare in his Code of Conduct Bureau assets declaration form. Since the CCB form is usually backed by court affidavits, failure to list all assets and liabilities presents a possible element of perjury.

Whatever may be our misgivings about the politics of the issue, those who judge others cannot be excused when found wanting in matters of public probity. While Onnoghen remains innocent of the allegations before the CCT, the concerns of some people are captured in the eternal words of Claude-Frédéric Bastiat, the French writer and economist credited with developing the concept of opportunity cost: “When plunder becomes a way of life for a group of men in a society, over the course of time they create for themselves a legal system that authorizes it and a moral code that glorifies it.”

Now to the legal issue. I am not a lawyer, so I will rely on the two competing systems of values as constructed by the late American law professor and criminologist, Herbert Lesley Packer in his famous book, ‘The Limits of the Criminal Sanctions’. The first, called ‘the crime control model’, is founded on the notion of presumption of guilt for any person on whom serious allegations are levelled. This obviously was the model applied by the federal government to arraign Onnoghen before the CCT on the basis of a petition brought by an NGO of doubtful credibility.

The second Packer construct of criminal justice system is ‘the due process model’. It is founded on the principles that in the prosecution

Onnoghen of alleged crimes, government should be held accountable to rules, procedures, and guidelines to ensure fairness and consistency in the justice process. This, according to Packer, “should look like an obstacle course, consisting of a series of impediments that take the form of procedural safeguards that serve as much to protect the factually innocent as to convict the factually guilty.” This is the model President Muhammadu Buhari and his AGF, Abubakar Malami, SAN, have always applied in dealing with all the cases involving people close to them.

From Abdulrasheed Maina to Kemi Adeosun and several others, no matter how overwhelming the evidence may appear, this administration always insists on due process when dealing with friends. The problem is that they don’t offer the same legal protection to people outside their circle. For instance, in December 2016, the then Secretary to the

Whatever may be the outcome of the current drama, the damage is already done both to the reputation of Onnoghen, who is now expected to prove his innocence if not in the court of law, at least in the court of public opinion; and the system of justice administration in Nigeria

Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr Babachir Lawal was indicted by the senate for allegedly embezzling hundreds of millions of Naira meant for the Internally Displaced People (IDP) in the North-east. Despite the monumental evidence provided in the report, the president refused to act on the senate resolution.

This was the reason the president gave to the senate in defence of Babachir Lawal: “You are invited to note that non-application of principles of fair hearing by the senate ad hoc committee is a clear contravention of section 36 (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended and against all principles of rule of law as initiated in the Nigerian legal system as well as the rules of the National Assembly committees on handling of public petitions. Consequently, I am of the view that barring other considerations that may arise as a result of subsequent investigation of Lawal by the interim ad hoc committee, the current report, as presented to the presidency in its own right, does not meet the principles of fair hearing and compliance with the senate rules for conduct of investigations in matters relating to abuse of office by public officers.”

In response to President Buhari’s letter, the chairman of the senate ad hoc committee which investigated the matter, Senator Shehu Sani, then a member of the ruling APC, said: “It is unfortunate that we have a political atmosphere where you have a saintly and angelic presidency and a devilish and evil society. We must in every respect fight corruption within the kitchen as we do in the verandah. If we don’t do that, then we are being hypocritical.” It took ten months and an executive committee headed

by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo before Lawal was eventually sacked. Again, in December 2016, following a damning report by the DSS against the acting EFCC chairman, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, the senate declined his confirmation.

In giving Magu the benefit of the doubt, the president rejected the reports of both the senate and the DSS. Given the foregoing, no matter the gravity of the allegation against the CJN, the manner in which this case is being handled cannot be right. After surreptitiously leaking the charges to the media, the government prosecution team came to court on Monday to admit that the CJN had not been properly served. That sort of treatment should not be given to the head of the judicial arm of government in our country.

It may be necessary to make a clarification here. I am not one of those who believe that the CJN is above the law. In my column, ‘Arrest of the Untouchables’ dated 16th October 2016, I cited examples from the United States, Indonesia and several other countries where Judges have been arrested on charges of corruption. To buttress my argument, I borrowed the words of a former Indian Chief Justice that “in the hierarchy of values, judicial integrity is above judicial independence”. Therefore, I believe, like most people, that the judgement of Justice Hyeladzira Nganjiwa, in the case involving a judge accused of unlawfully receiving $260,000 and N8.6 million, should not stand. Since the EFCC has already filed an appeal, we await the outcome but no country confers such omnibus immunity on Judges or any set of public officials for that matter. The question is,

in the light of this assault on the CJN, would the Supreme Court not see that judgement as the only protection they have under the current dispensation?

Just like the Justice Salami saga, the travails of the CJN has divided the nation along partisan lines. With a crucial presidential election less than a month away, it is understandable that very few people are prepared to examine this matter dispassionately. But the almighty God, according to the late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, “gave us two ears so that we may hear both sides”. Sadly, it is also clear that, because of the politics of the moment, those opposed to the continued stay in office of the CJN are not interested in his side of the story. They just want him out despite the fact that the presumption of innocence, a cannon of our law, is on his side.

As I told the president in the course of THISDAY interview with him last week, the reason many Nigerians have become cynical about the war against corruption is because of a strong perception that there is no equality under the law. It is very clear that certain people, especially those who belong to the ruling party, get treated differently than others when there are criminal allegations against them. That explains why those who should ordinarily feel scandalised about the enormity of the allegations against Onnoghen would rather focus on the politics of it. When you create such a trust deficit on a serious agenda as fighting corruption, the society is the loser.

Last December, the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, with support from the MacArthur Foundation, held an anti-corruption conference attended by critical stakeholders in government and civil society. While the fight against corruption, according to the communique, is already a difficult mission, “The abuse of state power compounds Nigeria’s accountability challenge. The government must be seen to be fair in applying sanctions and anti-corruption agencies must operate independently and within the scope of the law.”

As late in the day as it may seem, it is important to look at the bigger picture, which is the point being made by Chief Afe Babalola, SAN. The federal government, according to the respected lawyer, “is unwittingly or perhaps deliberately creating a wrong impression in the minds of millions of Nigerians that the Judiciary is a criminal organisation. For the sake of our democracy this is a misconception that must not be allowed to fester. No country, no matter how well intentioned its political leaders are, can aspire to greatness if its judicial arm is denigrated and held in contempt. While the Judiciary itself must be awake to its huge responsibilities, its efforts in this regard will surely not be helped by the erosion of its independence.”

Whatever may be the outcome of the current drama, the damage is already done both to the reputation of Onnoghen, who is now expected to prove his innocence if not in the court of law, at least in the court of public opinion; and the system of justice administration in Nigeria. But it should also not be lost on President Buhari that when a government begins to apply different standards in the prosecution of the war against corruption, whatever success that is achieved in the process can only be ephemeral.

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