SATURDAY 12TH DECEMBER

IMF Article IV: Nigeria’s Outlook Challenging, Forex Reforms Needed Says real GDP contracting, inflation increasing, external vulnerabilities remain large Festus Akanbi in Lagos and Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The International Monetary Fund (IMF) yesterday returned a gloomy verdict on the Nigerian economy

for 2020, declaring that the nation’s economic outlook is challenging.

The multilateral institution, which recently conducted its 2020 Article IV Consultation with Nigeria, said the

country’s economy “is buffeted” from side to side by a cocktail of issues including the uncertainty over the COVID-19 pandemic, low oil prices, capital outflows and balance of payment challenges.

During an Article IV consultation, an IMF team of economists visits a country to assess economic and financial developments and discuss the country's economic and financial policies with

government and central bank officials.

The IMF team, led by Ms. Jesmin Rahman, conducted this latest virtual mission between October 30 and November 17, 2020 in the

context of the 2020 Article IV Consultation with Nigeria.

The IMF, in a statement made available to THISDAY on its findings, said: “The Continued on page 5

Court Declares Banks’ Stamp Duty Charges Illegal… Page 8 Saturday 12 December, 2020 Vol 25. No 9378

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Fayemi:Youths Right to Demand Good Governance, End to Police Cruelty Urges them to employ stealth rather than brigandage in pushing for social change Charles Ajunwa Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, yesterday said Nigerian youths have a right to demand good governance

and an end to police brutality in the country.

However, he said they should employ stealth rather than brigandage in pushing for social change.

The governor, who spoke at a virtual symposium titled, “The Africa Policy Dialogue Series: Harnessing Africa’s Demographic Dividend for Peace, Security and

Productivity through Investments in Youth”, organised by the Harvard Kennedy School Alumni Association of Nigeria, said during his time as an activist,

he knew when to pause and negotiate with the government, hence his successes.

Fayemi said: “We do owe them (youths) a duty to begin to respond to those reasonable

demands that they make for a good education which is a right not a privilege, for accountable governance, for Continued on page 5

Presidency Deplores Breakup Threats, Says Buhari Won’t Succumb to Pressure Charles Ajunwa As tempers flare over the state of the nation, the Presidency has reiterated its resolve not to be stampeded into taking hasty measures which may be counter-productive to the yearnings and aspirations of majority of Nigerians.

In a series of tweets yesterday, the Senior Special Assistant, Media and Publicity, to the President, Garba Shehu, apparently responding to the activities of war mongers behind an orchestrated campaign of a possible breakup of the country, as a result of the rising insecurity and the clamour for restructuring, said the president won’t be intimidated.

Shehu also warned those issuing threats to the president, "to take certain actions", to desist from such.

He stressed that the President, as an elected leader

under this constitution, “will continue to work with patriotic Nigerians, through and in line with the Parliamentary processes to finding solutions to structural and other impediments to the growth and wellbeing of the nation and its people.”

Shehu tweeted: “The Presidency responds to the recurring threats to the corporate existence of the country with factions giving specific timelines for the President to do one thing or another or else, in their language, ‘the nation will break up’.

“This is to warn that such unpatriotic outbursts are both unhelpful and unwarranted, as this government will not succumb to threats and take any decision out of pressure at a time when the nation’s full attention is needed to deal with the security challenges facing it at a time of the COVID-19

"The President as an elected leader under this constitution will continue to work with patriotic Nigerians, through and in line with the parliamentary processes to finding solutions to structural and other impediments to the growth and wellbeing of the nation and its people"

Continued on page 5

ICC Prosecutor Seeks Probe of Military, Boko Haram... Page 6

BUHARI IN DAURA...

Emir of Daura, Alhaji Farouk Umar Farouk (left) and President Muhammadu Buhari during the President’s arrival at his hometown, Daura Katsina State on a private visit... yesterday

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Buhari: Late Ambassador Nsofor was a Man of Rare Courage Omololu Ogunmade ËØÎ Michael Olugbode ÓØ ÌßÔË President Muhammadu Buhari has described the late Nigerian Ambassador to the United States, Sylvanus Nsofor, as a man of rare courage.

Nsofor, 85, who died in an hospital in the United States, last Thursday evening, was a retired justice of the Court of Appeal, and assumed office as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States on November 13, 2017.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, in a statement titled “President Buhari mourns Ambassador Nsofor,” said Buhari had

spoken with the deceased’s widow, Jane on telephone to commiserate with her and the family.

According to the statement, Buhari, during the telephone conversation described the late envoy as “an outstanding judge of rare courage and truth who is not afraid to give justice to whom justice is due.”

The president was apparently referring to the 2003 presidential election petitions on which Nsofor delivered a minority judgment as a member of the election appeal tribunal in his favour, as the candidate of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).

Buhari said the country would miss people with such

exemplary pedigree.

Shehu added that the President had directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to work with the deceased’s family on his burial arrangement.

A press statement, yesterday, by the spokesperson of the ministry, Ferdinand Nwonye said Nwafor, was survived

by Mrs. Jane Nsofor, three children and grandchildren.

Nwonye added: “The Ministry, on behalf of the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, extends to Mrs. Nsofor and her family deepest condolences and sympathy and prays for the peaceful repose of an outstanding and patriotic

Nigerian public servant.”

The envoy succeeded Prof Adebowale Adefuye, who also died towards the end of his tenure as Nigeria’s Ambassador to U.S. Born on March 17, 1935, in Oguta, Imo State, Nigeria, Nsofor graduated from London’s, now-defunct, Holborn College of Law in 1962. He also bagged an LL.M from the London School of Economics in 1964.

The late envoy began teaching at Holborn College of Law in 1964 and later went into private practice the following year.

He was appointed to the bench in Nigeria in 1977, and served as a judge of the Imo

state High Court. Nsofor was a justice on the Court of Appeal of Nigeria for 13 years until his mandatory retirement in 2005.

Nsofor cast the dissenting vote in a three-justice panel in a contested 2003 presidential race between Muhammadu Buhari, who was presidential candidate of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), and the then President Olusegun Obasanjo, who was candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

When President Buhari was elected President 12 years later, he appointed Nsofor as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the U.S, a top and strategic foreign post. Nsofor was then 82.

His ambassadorial screening at the senate did not go without some drama as he refused to recite the national anthem when asked to do so

by Senator Gbenga Ashafa, who was concerned about Nsofor’s age and fitness to serve.

“Go and ask Mugabe who is still working,” Nsofor replied senators when his age and fitness became an issue during the screening session.

Nsofor’s nomination was denied but President Buhari re-nominated him at the end of March of 2017.

After another appearance before the senate, he was confirmed as ambassador on June 7.

President in Daura for Week-long Private Visit Omololu Ogunmade ÓØ ÌßÔË President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday arrived in Daura, Katsina State for a week-long private visit.

A statement by presidential spokesman, Malam Garba

Shehu, said the aircraft conveying the president from Abuja landed at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport, Katsina at 4:45pm where he was received by Governor Aminu Bello Masari, his deputy, Mannir Yakubu,

senior government officials and heads of security agencies in the state.

The statement said upon arriving Daura, Buhari was received at the helipad by the Emir, Alhaji Umar Faruk Umar and members of the Emirate

Council followed by a parade of colourful horse riders and courtiers.

It added that shortly after disembarking from the chopper, the president received the gift of a horse and a decorated sword in his capacity as Bayajiddan

Daura from the emir.

The statement also said Buhari, while in Daura, would carry out a number of private engagements but would virtually participate in the meeting of the Federal Executive Council on Wednesday to be

presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

It noted that the president last visited his hometown in December 2019, deliberately staying away for one full year because of the COVID-19 situation.

PRESIDENCY DEPLORES BREAKUP THREATS, SAYS BUHARI WON’T SUCCUMB TO PRESSURE health crisis.

“Repeat: this administration will not take any decision against the interests of 200 million Nigerians, who are the President’s first responsibility under the constitution, out of fear or threats, especially in this hour of health crisis.”

Also reacting to criticisms trailing the decision of President Buhari to change his mind about honouring the invitation

of the National Assembly over the recent killings of 43 farmers in Maiduguri, Borno State, Shehu stated that the President “is committed to parliamentary processes.”

One of the Presidential aides, Lauretta Onochie, had earlier in the week given the assurances of her principal to honour the lawmakers’ invitation, but Buhari changed his mind following the position

of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN).

The Presidency cited the constitution, which the Attorney-General said did not confer the power to summon the president on the National Assembly, for Buhari’s change of mind.

However, the minister’s position elicited divergent

reactions from a cross-section of stakeholders, with Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, concurring with him, while the House Minority Caucus, and lawyers differed.

Notwithstanding the Presidency’s clarification, the House spokesman, Hon. Ben Kalu, told THISDAY earlier in the week that lawmakers were still expecting the president to

fulfill his promise to appear before them.

Kalu anchored his position on the fact that the House has not been formally notified that the president would no longer honour the invitation.

House Speaker, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, had told State House reporters last Wednesday, when he led a delegation to convey the House’s invitation to Buhari

that the president had pledged to honour the invitation.

The summoning of the president followed the consideration of a motion on December 1, moved by Hon. Satomi Ahmed, on behalf of 10 other Borno State federal lawmakers, to summon Buhari and, to amongst other things, declare a state of emergency in some areas to tackle the worsening insecurity.

access. However, if BOP and inflationary pressures intensify, there might be a need to withdraw liquidity or raise rates.

“Given weak transmission and record low market interest rates, further cuts in the Monetary Policy Rate are unlikely to provide additional support to the economy. In the medium term, the operational monetary policy framework, along with policy strategy and communication, should be strengthened to establish the primacy of price stability.”

The IMF called for more regulatory actions to forestall future financial stability risks. It noted: “While the banking sector has been resilient, thanks to the ample pre-crisis buffers, the mission recommended vigilance and corrective actions to prevent an increase in financial stability risks arising, inter alia, from increasing non-performing loans.

“In this connection, debt relief measures for clients should remain time-bound and limited to clients with good pre-crisis fundamentals, in line with existing regulations.

“The minimum loan to deposit ratio should be reconsidered because of the risk to financial stability associated with pushing credit possibly to higher-risk clients.

“Regarding financial inclusion, the mission welcomed notable progress in narrowing gender and regional gaps in access to financial services, including through fostering financial literacy, agency banking and use of fintech.

“On the structural front, the approval of the power sector recovery programme financing plan, the ratification of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and the completion of key road projects are positive steps. Going forward, the mission recommended decisive actions to tackle governance weaknesses and implement regulatory and trade-enabling reforms, including the lifting of trade restrictions, to unlock Nigeria’s strong growth potential. Moreover, it is critical to continue strengthening the anti-corruption framework and implement plans to improve the effectiveness of the AML/ CFT framework.”

In his remarks, the President of the Harvard Kennedy School Alumni Association of Nigeria, Frank Nweke, said there was a need for Nigerians who attended prestigious universities abroad to use their degrees to promote social development.

Nweke, who is a former Minister of Information and Communication, said Africa’s large youth population ought to be an advantage but the poor investments in education

and health had made it otherwise.

He said: “This seeming demographic advantage in Africa is, however, meaningless given the rather sub-optimal investments in education, skills development and healthcare by Africa’s governments which has culminated in illiteracy, unemployment, poverty, drug abuse, poor health status and low skills amongst African youth.”

IMF ARTICLE IV: NIGERIA’S OUTLOOK CHALLENGING, FOREX REFORMS NEEDED COVID-19 global pandemic is exacting a heavy toll on the Nigerian economy, which was already experiencing falling per capita income and double-digit inflation, with limited buffers and structural bottlenecks.

“Low oil prices and sharp capital outflows have significantly increased balance of payments (BOP) pressures and, together with the pandemic-related lockdown, have led to a large output contraction and increased unemployment.”

In its estimation, the IMF said supply shortages have pushed up headline inflation to a 30-month high.

It said: “Under current policies, the outlook is challenging. Real GDP is projected to contract by 3¼ per cent in 2020. The recovery is projected to start in 2021, with subdued growth of 1½ per cent and output recovering to its pre-pandemic level only in 2022.”

The IMF report, which acknowledged the efforts of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to rein in inflation, however, maintained that despite an expected easing

of food prices, inflation is projected to remain in doubledigits and above the CBN’s target range.

“Following a significant decline in revenue collections - from levels that were already among the lowest in the world - fiscal deficits are projected to remain elevated in the medium term,” the report stated.

Recognising various policy measures put in place by the federal government, the Bretton Wood Institution still believes there is need to put in place more broad market reforms in order to address the pressing balance of payment pressures in Nigeria.

The report stated: “The authorities have also taken courageous steps to remove costly and untargeted subsidies in the power sector, which were largely benefiting betteroff households. But more needs to be done.

“Major policy adjustments embracing broad market and exchange rate reforms are needed to address recurrent BOP pressures and raise the medium-term growth path.

“A durable solution to Nigeria’s recurrent BOP

problems requires recalibrating exchange rate policies to reduce BOP risks, instill market confidence and facilitate private sector planning. The adjustments in the official exchange rate made earlier this year are steps in the right direction and the mission recommended a multi-step transition to a more unified exchange rate regime, with a market-based, flexible exchange rate.

“Significant revenue mobilization, including through tax policy and administration improvements, is required to create space for higher social spending and reduce fiscal risks and debt vulnerabilities.”

The IMF also wants the CBN to hands off budget financing, saying, “The mission welcomed this year’s reduced dependence on central bank financing of the budget and recommended its complete removal in the medium term. This could be accomplished by improving budget planning and public finance management practices to allow for flexible financing from domestic markets and better integration of cash and

debt management.”

It, however, welcomed fiscal transparency measures introduced to facilitate tracking and reporting of budget emergency funding.

Recall that the federal government had created new budget lines with information on monthly expenditures using emergency funding posted on the Ministry of Finance’s Transparency Portal.

The Bureau of Public Procurement has also issued guidelines on COVID-19 emergency fund use, and the Nigeria Open Contracting Portal has been publishing related procurement contracts.

The IMF said further steps are needed to ensure more consistent access to the Transparency Portal and publication of contract details relating to beneficiary ownership.

According to the IMF: “The mission agreed with the CBN that the accommodative monetary stance remains appropriate in the near term, given the constrained fiscal space, large fiscal financing needs and strained sovereign external market

FAYEMI: YOUTHS RIGHT TO DEMAND GOOD GOVERNANCE, END TO POLICE CRUELTY human rights protection and I think this is something that the government must respond to.

“They are the larger part of the population but they need to really rid themselves of a sense of entitlement because nobody gives you these things freely, you have to fight for it and I am glad that they are beginning to fight for it.

“Ultimately, when they start knocking on that door, and they break the door open, they will be allowed in. But

in breaking it open, they can do it by stealth rather than by brigandage. Some of us have spent our time at the barricade. In the better time of my younger days, I was also a #EndSARS protester of sorts as you know. But I knew when to stop and when to start negotiating with those in power and authority and ultimately, we made some progress.”

Fayemi, who is also the Chairman of the Nigeria

Governors Forum, said the Nigerian school curriculum was too centralised and, therefore, inimical to development.

He said each state should be able to fashion out its educational curriculum and policy to suit its agenda and ultimately propel growth.

The governor stated that education should not just be about acquiring degrees but for wealth creation and job satisfaction and that was

what informed the creation of a knowledge zone and insisting on vocational and technical education as a key to tackling unemployment in Ekiti State.

The seminar also had as panelists musician, Jude Abaga famously known as M.I; media entrepreneur and Co-founder of BellaNaija, Uche Pedro and motivational speaker, Maryam Hassan. The Chairman, Proshare, Olufemi Awoyemi was the moderator.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 12, 2020

ÏáÝ ÎÓÞÙÜ Ahamefula Ogbu 08116759810 (Ý×Ý ÙØÖã̚ ×ËÓÖ ahamefula.ogbu@thisdaylive.com

ICC Prosecutor Seeks Probe of Military, Boko Haram for Rights Abuses Festus Akanbi The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) yesterday said she would seek a full investigation into possible war crimes and crimes against humanity allegedly committed

during the war against Boko Haram in Nigeria.

Fatou Bensouda said in a statement quoted by Reuters that her office had completed a preliminary examination and found a “reasonable basis to believe” that Boko Haram

Leadership Publisher, Sam Nda-Isaiah Dies at 58 The publisher of Leadership Newspapers, Sam Nda-Isaiah is dead.

According to the Managing Director of the organisation Mr. Muazu Elaze, who confirmed the news of his death, Nda-Isaiah died yesterday in Abuja after a brief illness. He was aged 58.

The late publisher will be remembered for his footprints in the Nigerian journalism. Apart from newspaper publishing, he also tried his luck in politics and in 2003, he headed President Muhammadu Buhari’s presidential campaign’s publicities.

Born in Minna, Niger State, Nda-Isaiah attended UNA Elementary School before switching to Christ Church School, Kaduna in 1968. He later went on to study at the Federal Government Col-

lege, Kaduna, from 1974 to 1979.

He was admitted to Obafemi Awolowo University and studied pharmaceuticals. He also enrolled in the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore. He completed a mandatory year of the National Youth Services Corps at the Ekiti General Hospital and the Ekiti State Hospital in 1984.

Nda-Isaiah briefly worked as a pharmacist at the Kano Specialist Hospital before moving to General Hospital, Minna. He worked at Pfizer Products Limited from 1985 to 1989. He began his column with The Daily Trust Editorial Board as a board member and worked as a committee member in the Kano State Government to revive The Triumph, a Kano State- owned newspaper.

Tony Elumelu Foundation, EU Partner to Lift 2,500 African Women Bennett Oghifo

The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), has announced a partnership with the European Union to identify, train, mentor and fund 2,500 young African women entrepreneurs in 2021.

A statement issued by TEF yesterday said, “The partnership will disburse €20 million in financial and technical support for women-owned businesses, across all 54 African countries, in addition to providing increased access to market linkages, supply chains and venture capital investments.”

The joint initiative will significantly strengthen and deepen the EU-Africa partnership, builds on the platform and experience of the US$100m TEF Entrepreneurship Programme, and forms part of the EU External Investment Plan to support women economic empowerment within the EU Gender Action Plan (GAP III), according to the statement.

On the landmark partnership, Tony Elumelu, Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation said “We are delighted to partner with the European Union, sharing our unique ability to identify, train, mentor and fund young entrepreneurs across Africa.

This joint effort will prioritise and provide economic opportunities for African women, whom for too long had endured systemic obstacles to starting, growing and sustaining their businesses. Our

partnership will alleviate the funding, knowledge and market constraints threatening the livelihoods of women entrepreneurs on the continent, to create more income, jobs, growth and scale for women-owned businesses.”

The EU Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, said, “This partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation will help women participants in economic development, realise their full potential and accelerate economic inclusion. Empowering women entrepreneurs is a key driver for sustainable jobs and growth, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and in line with the objectives of our African Strategy. Women and girls represent half of the world’s population and they deserve equal opportunities.”

The statement said the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which marks 10 years of impact this year, is empowering a new generation of African entrepreneurs, catalysing economic growth, driving poverty eradication and ensuring job creation across all 54 African countries. The Foundation has trained, mentored and funded nearly 10,000 young African entrepreneurs from 54 African countries, and continues to provide capacity-building support, advisory and market linkages to over a million Africans through its digital networking platform, TEFConnect.

and its splinter groups had committed war crimes and crimes against humanity, through murder, rape, sexual slavery, and torture. Judges must approve the request.

Bensouda’s office has been reviewing the conflict between government forces and Boko Haram and its various splinter

groups in Western and Northern Nigeria since 2010.

She said the office recognised that the vast majority of the crimes were attributable to non-state actors, but that it had also found a “reasonable basis” to believe that members of the Nigerian security forces had also committed crimes.

Bensouda’s statement added that the court, set up in 2002 in The Hague, Netherlands, to prosecute atrocities when member states were unwilling or unable to do so themselves, was facing capacity constraints.

Bensouda’s office in running investigations in Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda,

Sudan, Central African Republic, Kenya, Libya, Ivory Coast, Mali, Georgia, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, and a decision on whether to investigate alleged atrocities in the Palestinian territories is pending.

Bensouda’s term is due to end June 15 and her successor has not yet been chosen.

HONOUR WELL DESERVED… L-R: HRH Eze Akujiobi Osuagwu (Awaka, Owerri North); HRH Eze Samuel Ohiri (Orodo, Mbaitoli); Wife of the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Dr. Bola Njoku; Deputy Governor, Prof. Placid Njoku; HRH Eze Chidume Okoro (Amano Obohia, Ahiazu Mbaise); Governor Hope Uzodimma (Onwa Natiri Oha Owerri Zone); Wife of the Governor, Barr. Chioma Uzodimma; and HRH Eze Emmanuel Okeke (Amaifeke, Orlu), shortly after the Governor was conferred with a chieftaincy title by the traditional rulers from Owerri zone at a reception in his honour ...weekend.

Buni: APC Constitutional Amendment More Important than Membership Registration Inaugurates interim APC state chairmen Adedayo Akinwale ÓØ ÌßÔË The Chairman of the Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, has said that the amendment of the party’s constitution was more important than the membership registration and revalidation exercise.

Buni who was represented by the Secretary of the party, Senator John Akpanudoedehe, stated this yesterday at the inauguration of state chairmen of the party.

According to him, “Apart from the issue of membership registration, there are the outstanding issues of constitutional amendment. This is a matter that is as important as reconstitution of leadership, if not more important. I believe that our capacity to strengthen our rules through constitutional

amendment will help us to put all the problems that led to the crisis that brought us to this point behind us. I will therefore invite you to take all the necessary steps to forward recommendations that will enable us to strengthen our rules.”

Buni stressed that the meeting with the state chairmen was convened to further clarify the decisions of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the great party at its meeting of Tuesday 8th December, 2020.

He noted that it was necessary to meet with the state chairmen of the party to explain the details of the decisions in order to ensure uniform implementation in all the States, Local Governments and Wards.

Buni stated: “You will recall that one of the decisions of NEC was the dissolution of all organs of the party and

inviting members of the dissolved organs to serve as Caretaker Committee for the intervening period between now and the Congresses that would elect new leaders to pilot activities of the party for the next four years in line with the provisions of our party’s constitution.

“Having been part of the deliberations and therefore been part of the decision, you have once again demonstrated your strong commitment to the growth of our party.

“Your sacrifice is a challenge to all of us to ensure that every necessary decision required to strengthen the structures of our party are taken and our party’s electoral advantages are fully restored.”

Buni said without further delay, having dissolved all the party structures, including the State Executive Committee, nature abhored vacuum, hence,

the birth of the committee.

He further stressed that members of the former State Executive Committee would be members of the Caretaker Committee, adding that in this capacity, they were expected to facilitate all the required consultations with all the leaders and stakeholders of the party in the state to ensure smooth transition.

The party leadership therefore mandated the state chairmen to inaugurate the respective Caretaker Committees of Local Governments and Wards within the next one week.

“As part of the transitional activities, you are already aware of the decision to commence membership registration/ revalidation. You will be required as State Caretaker Committee members to provide the needed leadership and guidance for a successful exercise in line with all the guidelines that is provided.”

COVID-19: Lagos Governor, Sanwo-Olu, Goes into Isolation Segun James After one of his closest aides tested positive for COVID-19, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has gone into immediate self-isolation.

According to Professor Akin

Abayomi the state’s Commissioner for Health, in a statement yesterday, “Mr. Governor and other members of his team will be tested by the Lagos State biobank today but will remain in isolation until the results of the tests are available.

“We are seeing slightly increasing number of COVID-19 positive cases in clusters in Lagos and all Lagosians should adhere to the prescribed advisories of safe distancing, good hand and respiratory hygiene and avoidance of unnecessary gatherings.

He stressed that “this is not the first time Mr. Governor is having the COVID-19 test. He has had at least three since May when he announced that 10 of his aides had tested positive for the virus,” the statement concluded.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 12, 2020

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NEWS Kanawa Pharmaceutical Market Ready Next January Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano

2023 ON THEIR MINDS...

L-R: Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus and the party’s Acting National Vice Chairman (South East), Chief Ali Odefa, during the PDP National Youth Summit, South East edition, held in Awka, Anambra State, yesterday.

Court Declares Banks’ Stamp Duty Charges Illegal Alex Enumah in Abuja

A Federal High Court in Asaba on Wednesday declared as unlawful, illegal, null and void the deduction of the sum of N50 as Stamp Duty charges from the accounts of commercial bank customers in the country.

The court in addition made an order restraining the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and banks from making further deductions unless authorised by law.

Justice Nnamdi Dimgba made the declaration in a judgment he delivered in a suit filed by a bank customer, Mr. Rupert Irikefe, challenging the continued deduction of Stamp Duty charges from his current bank account domiciled with Zenith Bank in Asaba, Delta State.

Irikefe had in 2019 instituted a legal action against the CBN, Zenith Bank PLC and the Attorney General of the Federation as 1st, 2nd and 3rd defendants respectively over the continued deduction of Stamp Duty charges from his current account in

Zenith, despite a subsisting court order preventing banks in the country from making such charges.

In the suit he filed and argued by himself, Irikefe prayed the court to hold the CBN and Zenith Bank liable for acting in flagrant disobedience of a valid could order.

According to the plaintiff upon noticing several deductions of N50 and N100 from his bank account with the 2nd defendant being Stamp Duty charges, he had paid two visits to the bank branch in Asaba on September 14, 2018 and October 11, 2018 and told them their action contravened the judgment of the competent courts in the country including the Court of Appeal.

He lamented that rather than refund the monies so far collected the 2nd defendant continued to make further deductions on claims that they were following lawful directives of the first defendant.

Among the reliefs plaintiff

sought before the court are whether by the decision of the Court of Appeal in appeal number : CA/L/437A/2014 between Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria limited versus Kasmil International Services Limited and 22 others delivered on April 21, 2016 and suit number: FHC/L/CS/126/2016 between Retail Supermarket Nigeria Limited versus Citibank Nigeria Limited and the CBN delivered on March 13, 2017 which found that “there was no express provision in the Stamp Duty Act or any law authorising the deduction or imposing any obligation to deduct or remit N50 as Stamp Duty on tellers, deposits or electronic transfers of monies from N1000 upwards and accordingly nullified same, the conduct of the 1st defendant and 2nd defendant by continuing to impose, direct the imposition, receive and or charge, deduct or remit the said sum of N50 as Stamp Duty.... from the account of the plaintiff is not wrong in law,

dismissive and contemptuous of the law, orders of superior courts of competent jurisdiction, condemnable, null and void and of no effect.

He further asked the court to hold that the conduct of the first and second defendants to continue to make deduction in the name of Stamp Duty despite the subsistence and or awareness or the court of Appeal judgment is arbitrary, unlawful, illegal etc.

He accordingly prayed the court to make “ an order setting aside the imposition, deduction and or remittance or Stamp Duty charges.

“An order directing or mandating the first and second defendants to refund to the plaintiff the total cumulative sum illegally deducted from the commencement of deductions on January 31, 2016 to the date of filing the suit”.

Plaintiff also prayed for the sum of N50 million as general damages and another N50 million as exemplary damages.

Evolve Strategies to Contain Insurgency, FG Charges Newly Promoted Officers

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The federal government yesterday charged newly promoted senior officers of the Nigerian Air Force to evolve new strategies to contain security challenges in the country.

A total of 31 senior officers were promoted to the rank of Air Commodore while 16 others were elevated to the rank of Air Vice Marshal.

Speaking at the decoration ceremony held at the Nigerian

Air Force Centre, Kado, Abuja, Minister of Defence, Major General Bashir Magashi (rtd), charged the officers to evolve new strategies to contain the challenge of insecurity.

“These are difficult times for our nation and the military.

We must therefore continue to evolve new strategies to contain these challenges in order to ensure safety and security of our citizens.

“The government and good people of Nigeria are expecting

nothing short of professionalism from you as you discharge your constitutional responsibility,” he said.

The minister said it was the responsibility of the military officers to contain the ongoing fight against terrorism, banditry and all forms of criminality “as it is your mandate to preserve national security and territorial integrity. Hence, it is expected that with upliftment to the ranks of Air Commodore and Air Vice Marshal you will continue to

rededicate yourselves to the service of a better Nigeria”.

The Defence minister said the federal government under President Muhammadu Buhari remained committed to supporting the Nigerian military.

“The federal government is also poised to provide the services and indeed other security agencies with the required wherewithal in pursuance of their collective mandate of securing our dear nation,” he said.

Trained Former Militants Threaten 30-day Protest over Unpaid Salaries Trained beneficiaries under the Presidential Amnesty Programme, their families and friends have threatened to embark on a 30-day peaceful protest at the entrances and exits of the Amnesty office over refusal to pay them after they were reabsorbed on completion of their programme since 2007.

The nine out of 10 affected repentant ex-agitators according to a petition to the Director General of Directorate of State Security Services have

applied to the outfit to give them protection while they carried out the protest starting from December 15, 2020, to have their salaries paid since they were issued letters of employment.

According to a letter from the office of Granville Aribo and Company, solicitors to the petitioners, Gauranwei Pere Pere-Uge, Simon Ebizimor, Andrew Daubry, Usen Osasere Stelios, Ikiriko Ibiwari, Appah Micheal

Oyinprebi, Alagha Ebinidenge Emmanuel, Odili Esther Ebimoboere and Ugochukwu Bon Nwakama were the affected beneficiaries.

They claimed that they were chosen for a Train-the Trainers programme at TTe Group, Middleborough, United Kingdom, organised by the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on the Niger Delta and Coordinator of the Niger Delta Amnesty Programme

on conclusion of which they were employed by the office and issued letters of employment.

“Upon acceptance of the offer of employment, our clients were further compelled to sign an undertaking/letter of commitment, guaranteeing that our client shall return back to Nigeria after their training in the UK and must remain under the employment of the Office for a minimum of 4 years.

The new Kanawa Pharmaceutical Market constructed by Brains and Hammers at Kano Economic City, Dangwauro will be ready for use in January, next year.

The project director Abdullahi Gambo told reporters in Kano on Thursday that the market was constructed in compliance with the federal government’s strategy of controlling drugs which required Kanawa Pharmaceuticals to pass through a Coordinate Wholesale Centre (CWC) before moving to market.

Gambo said this will allow the government to determine and monitor the usage of drugs in the country and fight drug abuse.

He revealed that the market has refrigerated warehouses where drugs can be stored within a below zero temperature.

“Planned to be developed in three phases, phase one of the Kano Economic City is made up of 1000 units of duplex, luxury

and basic shops dedicated to pharmaceutical wholesalers, and another 3000 units of shops designed for the information technology section popularly referred to as “GSM” village,” Gambo said.

With eyes set on the completion and commissioning of phase 1, the Project Director hinted that with the pace of work currently on - going, the company is working assiduously to ensure that phase 1 is ready for commissioning by the state government by early January, 2021.

Gambo said; “With phase 1 at its stage and within our planned delivery timeline, our sights are fixed on the delivery of the KEC dream. The dream is to create a major economic hub and export processing zone with well-crafted components that would include over 80,000 square metres of mega wholesale and retail warehouses.

“The project would also include shops, trailer parks, passenger motor parks, a conference centre, petrol stations, hotels, malls, and medical facilities.”

Report: CBN Must Accelerate Interventions in 2021 to Boost Economy Dike Onwuamaeze

A report by the SB Morgen (SBM) has predicted that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will increase its interventionist stance to boost growth in country’s economy in 2021.

The report which was released yesterday with the title “The Year Ahead: Light at the End of the Tunnel- What to Expect Next Year, also said that Nigeria’s economy will come out of recession in the last quarter of 2021and predicted that only the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) conditions would force the government to reopen the country’s land borders in 2021.

The SBM stated that the CBN would be compelled to accelerate its interventionist stance as the Presidency and Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning would literarily cede their fiscal policy responsibilities to the apex bank.

The report said: “The CBN

may try new tricks, including cutting Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) further or increasing the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) and Loan to Deposit Ratio (LDR). It will also ramp up extra-monetary interventions and expand its regulatory oversight over banking and other sectors closely tied to finance. Regardless, the outcome will be sluggish and painful economic growth.”

The report also envisaged that the CBN might be constrained to embrace a managed float of the Naira in the foreign exchange market during the first half of 2021, adding that “we expect slight devaluation of the Naira in 2021 as the CBN will face renewed pressure to fund foreign exchange requests as economic activities and travel pick up. In addition, low revenues will cause reviewed pressure from the various tiers of government to call for devaluation so they can meet budget expenditure requirements.”

I Killed Motorcyclist for Money to Purchase Yam Tubers, Says Suspect Victor Ogunje ÓØ ÎÙ ÕÓÞÓ

A murder suspect, Ayo Lawal, who killed a motorcyclist in Ekiti State has revealed that he committed the crime to raise money to purchase yam tubers for the 2020l2021 planting season.

The offence was committed at Odo Oro, Ikole Local Government Area of the state, when Lawal in company with one Jimoh Ojo, Sule Abduallahi and one person named Wonder killed the motorcyclist named Isaac inside the farm.

Isaac was said to have conveyed the suspects from Ikole to a farmstead at Odo Oro Ekiti , where he was murdered and the body interred in a shallow grave in a farm belonging to

Ayo Lawal.

While being paraded yesterday alongside five others by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ekiti Command, ASP Sunday Abutu, Lawal said he was prodded by Abdullahi, now at large to commit the crime.

“It was Abdullahi that said we should kill the deceased, so that he could go to Okenne, Kogi State and sell the motorbike with intention to use my own share to buy yam tubers for the next year’s planting season.”

During the parade, the police spokesperson, said two of the suspects had been arrested and had confessed to the commission of the crime.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 12, 2020

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Governor Zulum is Simply a Coward

A

t a point, I thought Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State had the capacity to lead the pressure on the federal government and the military to end the Boko Haram madness. I assumed he had the ability to emancipate his people from the shackles of terrorism by saying the truth to the federal government and the military about the botched war against terrorists.

I believed this governor had the capacity to resist being cowed by the federal might. But suddenly, Zulum buckled under little pressure.

That was what he did last Sunday when he ingloriously declared that despite all the Boko Haram killings in his beloved Borno State in almost six years of Buhari, “Borno State is better off security-wise under the Buhari administration.”

All my expectations crashed as Zulum spoke out of both sides of his mouth.

Off course, I am aware that the Presidency and the military have been unhappy with the manner Zulum persistently punched holes in the war against Boko Haram. The governor once confronted the service chiefs with facts that some Borno local governments were not accessible.

He made his assertions in the presence of the Defence Minister, Bashir Magashi; the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai; and the Chief of Air Staff, Abubakar Sadique. The powers that be in Abuja view Zulum’s recent call for the engagement of mercenaries in the war against Boko Haram as a vote of no confidence in the military. Some powerful forces told Zulum to his face that he can’t afford to fight Abuja, as if saying the truth about the failed war against the terrorists is a fight against the federal government.

These people are also angry that Zulum had been complaining and criticising heads of security agencies over the raging insecurity in his state.

I guess they expect Zulum to just fold his arms and continue to watch his people butchered by the terrorists. They want him to be parroting questionable progress. My dear Zulum was eventually cowed. What a country!

He is now making political statements at the expense of his people. Zulum is now unaware that the Jonathan government had pushed Boko Haram to the fringes of Sambisa forest and Lake Chad before the 2015 presidential election.

Suddenly, this governor is unaware that during the Jonathan era, there were 11 formal IDP camps in Borno State, with less than 100,000 people.

Zulum

Under Buhari’s years, the number of formal IDP camps grew to 33, with over 700,000 people.

More Borno indigenes are relocating to IDP camps in Buhari years because their towns and villages are dominated by the terrorists. So, how did Borno State fare better under Buhari?

The deadliest Boko Haram attacks in Borno State took place under the Buhari government.

Four local government areas - Guzamala, Kukawa, Abadam and Marte – are now totally inaccessible and largely uninhabitable due to the presence of the Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters. In the last five and half years, over 3000 indigenes of this state have lost their lives to Boko Haram.

Do I need to remind Zulum about some of these killings? He knows quite well, but I still need to remind him; perhaps, it would help this governor recover his nerve. On June 20 this year, with Zulum as governor, terrorists entered Zowo village in Gubio LG, operated for over three hours, and left 69 people dead.

The lethal massacre of Nigerian soldiers by Boko Haram in Metele, Borno State in November 2018 was under the Buhari government. Scores of soldiers were killed at 157 Task Force Battalion in Metele. The exact casualty figure is still a secret till today.

Auno, a settlement located on the major road leading to Maiduguri is one community that is persistently attacked by Boko Haram in this Buhari era. The terrorists have struck here 10 times, killing scores of people. The attack last February was also brutal, with Boko Haram killing 30 people. Many women and children were abducted in that late night raid on blameless people waiting to cross into Maiduguri.

Another gruesome Boko Haram killing took place last year when 65 mourners were murdered during a funeral procession in Badu, Nganzai Local Government Area of Borno State. Yes, 65 human beings murdered in one day! No news yet on bringing the killers to justice. Zulum should not forget the abduction of Saifura Khorsa and Hauwa Mohammed Liman, both Red Cross workers by Boko Haram in the IDP camp in Rann, Borno State. They were subsequently murdered. I need to remind the Borno governor about the day our own military, while searching for Boko Haram fighters, dropped bombs on hapless IDPs in Rann, killing over 300 people.

It was also under this Buhari government.

The insecurity at the Rann IDP camp assumed a frightening dimension under the Buhari government. In 2018, the terrorists invaded the camp, killing four international aid workers.

Scores of IDPs were also killed. The military post nearby, meant to provide security at the camp was overturned by the terrorists.

What about thousands of IDPs in the sprawling Muna Garage camp on the outskirts of Maiduguri that are equally persistently traumatised? In 2017 alone, they were attacked 13 times by Boko Haram, with scores killed.

The University of Maiduguri has been attacked severally. I can’t forget how Boko Haram strolled into the university in January 2017 and killed Professor Aliyu Mani and five others. Thousands have been killed in assaults in Magumeri, Malam Fatori, Sabon Garin Kimba, Gashigar, Dalore.

I also need to remind Zulum that within 36 days of Buhari’s assumption of office in 2015, 406 indigenes of Borno State were slaughtered

by Boko Haram. The facts and figures are there.

I will never forget the 17 people killed at an abattoir in Maiduguri on June 2, 2015; the 40 people killed at Jimeta night market on June 5, 2015 ; the 48 people killed in Mussaram I and Mussaram II near Monguno on June 30, 2015; the 98 people killed in Kukawa village on July 1, 2015; the 11 people killed at Malari

village along Bama/Konduga Highway on July 2, 2015 and the 29 people killed in Mussa village, Askira-Uba LG on July 3, 2015.

All these killings took place under the Buhari government. Our President has clearly not performed better in the handling of Borno’s security challenges. In fact, he has failed woefully.

We all have to help Zulum resist the pressure from Abuja. He is suddenly confused by the Abuja force; or else, how can one explain his sudden remark that no one should be “blinded by the recent killing of 43 Zabarmari rice farmers” to pass judgment on the efforts of President Buhari to checkmate Boko Haram. Zulum lost 43 indigenes of his state in just one day, and precipitously turned around to start praising the Buhari government. That is what pressure does to a fraidy-cat.

The fear was obvious in Zulum’s voice while addressing northern elders from the Arewa Consultative Forum in Maiduguri last Sunday. This governor has been browbeaten.

Forward-looking people of this state must help Zulum recover his bravado. He must be helped back on track. Only the truth can set the devastated people of Borno State free from the fetters of Boko Haram. It is pertinent to continue pressurising the federal government and the military to do the needful for peace to return to Borno State.

On the flip side, the Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Audu Ogbeh, showed a lot of courage in his speech during the visit to Borno State last Sunday. Ogbeh, a former Minister of Agriculture, described the security situation in the North as depressing, adding that elites in the region now have nothing to leave behind as legacies for the future generation: “We are depressed, very depressed. And anyone of us, of our age, who is not depressed was not well-born, because we have nothing to leave behind for our children and violence will not sustain us. The tragedy of the North today is that the only industry left is politics, and politics alone has never grown any society. We have no industries, agriculture has declined and our own children have now turned to violence as a means of livelihood.”

This is the truth that will set the North free.

God bless you Ogbeh.

No Wisdom in Keeping Our Land Borders Shut The continued closure of Nigeria’s land borders is one of the biggest contributors to the dwindling value of the Naira. Yes, dwindling price of oil is a major factor, but border closure is also a key factor. Just check out the value of the Naira before and after the land border closure in August last year. Companies doing genuine business with our West African neighbours and earning forex are the ones truncated by the border closure. The closure is obviously counterproductive to the Nigerian economy.

The pains outweigh the gains. So, I can’t understand why this government is still foot-dragging on the issue. Buhari should just reopen our land borders.

Smugglers of drugs, small arms and agricultural products are still in big business.

Those who still don’t understand what I am talking about should visit the rice markets in Sango Ota, Ogun State and in Lagos. Here, you will see varieties of imported rice. Closure of the formal borders only means the smugglers now follow longer informal routes, with higher cost. The smugglers pass the extra cost to consumers. So who is feeling the heat?

Certainly, not the smugglers.

Petroleum products are also still being smuggled out through illegal routes. I always shudder when I hear the Nigerian government talking about a reduction in consumption of petroleum products follow-

Hammed Ali

ing the border closure. Which reduction? If we have a good government in place with good policies, then, this country should be exporting refined petroleum products to the rest of West Africa and earning forex.

Those still in doubt about the closure not affecting illegal businesses should also visit border posts between Nigeria and Niger Republic up North, where smugglers use illegal routes to sneak in bags of rice, bales of second-hand clothes and other contrabands. In bush paths, crooked security operatives work with these smugglers.

As for illegal arms and ammunition, those who smuggle them in don’t follow

the shut border posts. Most of them come in through illegal land routes and the sea ports. This is why Boko Haram, armed robbers, bandits and terrorists are still getting quality arms and ammunition despite the border closure. What has to be fixed here is our failed leadership; not shutting of land borders.

The smugglers are well-known to our security agents. Without official connivance, smuggling cannot thrive. Just visit the land borders and experience Customssanctioned smuggling.

I can vividly remember the Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee against Corruption, PACAC, Prof.

Itse Sagay, saying the Customs is still drenched in corruption even under the Buhari administration. He said: “There is no difference in Customs since May 29, 2015. If you go to Tin Can Island, it is business as usual.” Customs boss, Hameed Ali has not pragmatically responded to Sagay’s allegation.

Fighting corruption in the Customs requires more than grandstanding. We need a brilliant and tactical head for Customs. Again, this government should start thinking about privatising the collection of Customs and Excise duties. This is another way of reducing the sleaze in this agency and moving close to the N10 trillion annual revenue target from our ports, which I often talk about.

Hope Uzodinma

Uzodinma Should Pay Street Sweepers Governor Hope Uzodinma is not giving hope to anybody in Imo State. It was the turn of street sweepers to protest the poor performance of this governor as they blocked the entrance to the Imo State Government House, Owerri last Monday. They were complaining about non-payment of salaries since January when Uzodinma assumed office. The sweepers are largely widows who depend on the monthly stipends to take care of their families. The last 11 months have been horrendous for these unlucky women, with many of them living from hand to mouth. The governor could have at least addressed them. He did not.

Uzodinma gave them no hope. For how long will this suffering continue? Today, I challenge Uzodinma to clear all the salary arrears of these poor women, if indeed, he is the governor of Imo State.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 12, 2020 • T H I S D AY

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 12, 2020

NEWSXTRA

CBN Unveils New Pricing Template for TSA Collections KunleAderinokun,Dike OnwuamaezeinLagosand James EmejoinAbuja The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has introduced a new pricing regime for the enhanced Treasury Single Account (TSA) e-collection model.

According to the guidelines for the on-going TSA eCollections enhancement project by the apex bank, which becomes effective January 1, 2021, all government collections must be channelled through the new TSA eCollection model.

In the new dispensation, Etranzact, Interswitch will be joining SystemSpec, operator of Remita, which is the sole Payment Solution Service Providers (PSSP) appointed by the

government to collect TSA payments from ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).

The CBN, in a circular dated December 10, 2020, signed by CBN Director, Banking Services Department, Mr. Sam Okojere, and addressed to all deposit money banks as well as chief executives of major electronic payment companies including SystemSpecs, Etranzact, Interswitch and NIBBS, however, warned that failure to comply with the new regulation would attract appropriate penalty.

The circular obtained by THISDAY, further pointed out that the charge for the service shall be grouped into two categories, namely, transaction charges borne by the payer and transaction charges borne by the MDAs.

Accordingly, transaction charges borne by the payer and carried out through Point of Sale (POS) shall attract a fee of N150 in addition to 0.50 per cent of the amount being paid subject to a maximum of N1,000 per transaction.

The apex bank further spelt out the sharing formula to include 43 per cent for PSSPs; 33 per cent for collecting banks; 11 per cent for the CBN; 10.5 per cent for NIBBS while the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) will have 2.5 per cent.

However, transactions through other channels shall attract a fee of N150 exclusive of value added tax (VAT), the circular stated.

On the other hand, however,

transaction charges borne by the MDAs, the agencies are required to pay for the service based on the various activity segments namely, provision of collection platform, processing of data, data transmission and replication service as well as funds sweeping.

Essentially, for the funds sweeping fees, the CBN pointed out that the apex bank and NIBBS shall each receive 10 per cent and the OAGF 2.5 per cent from the service provider PSSPs or DMBs depending on who is playing a collection role for the MDA. It explained that NIBBS shall be responsible for ensuring that all relevant stakeholders comply and that the amount remitted is consistent with the framework.

Ikpeazu Predicts 100% Win for PDP in Abia Council Poll Emmanuel Ugwu in Umuahia With less than a week to the local government election in Abia State, political activities have concentrated in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) as opposition camp rues their participation.

The apparent “weakness” of the opposition in the run up to the council poll has emboldened Governor Okezie Ikpeazu to declare that the ruling party would inflict humiliating defeat on the opposition challengers.

The ruling party formally launched its campaign for the council poll barely 72 hours ago at a ‘mega rally’ in Umuahia during which Ikpeazu presented the party flags to the 17 chairmanship and vices chairmanship candidates running on PDP tickets.

The Abia State Independent Electoral Commission(ABSIEC) has said that seven political parties would participate in the December 18 poll, including the two major opposition parties - the All Progressives Congress(APC) and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

While the ruling PDP is upbeat in its preparation, the opposition appear to be unsure of their participation having been

expressing reservation over the actions of the electoral umpire including the disqualification of some opposition candidates.

But Ikpeazu told his party faithful that converged on the events centre for the campaign rally that his administration had performed well enough to guarantee PDP success in the forthcoming poll.

He charged the candidates to work harder and make a clean sweep of the chairmanship and councillorship seats in the forthcoming poll, adding that the opposition parties were already shivering because of their impending defeat.

All the party leaders from zonal to state levels who spoke at the rally expressed optimism on the readiness of the ruling party to win the council poll comprehensively.

Meanwhile Governor Ikpeazu has continued the campaign for the council poll in a series of tweets in his official tweeter handle, @ GovernorIkpeazu, saying that the election was “a popularity contest” for his administration.

Alluding to unprecedented number of young men and women running on the tickets of the ruling party for various positions in the council poll, Ikpeazu said it was a demonstration of their “unwavering faith in our youths”.

Benin High Court Reverses Removal of Council Chairman Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

MILK OF HUMAN KINDNESS ...

L-R: Chairman, Ikoyi- Obalende Local Council Development Area,Fuad Atanda-Lawal; his wife,Mrs. Mosope Atanda-Lawal and Senator Oluremi Tinubu, presenting a gift pack to the beneficiaries,Mrs. Amoke Gafaru,during the commemoration of the 30th Town Hall Meeting and 9th Edition of the Elderly Citizen Assistance Scheme of the Lagos Central Senatorial District,at Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA,Lagos

Telcos Appeal to Subscribers over New SIM Card Suspension Order Emma Okonji

Following the directive given by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the telecoms industry regulator, that all telecoms operators should suspend the sale and activation of new SIM cards on their networks, the telecoms operators (Telcos) said they would comply with NCC directive, as ordered by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ibrahim

Pantami.

They however appealed to telecoms subscribers to bear the inconveniences that the exercise might cause them.

NCC had on Wednesday directed all telecoms operators to immediately suspend further sale and activation of SIM cards.

The Director, Public Affairs at NCC, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, who announced the suspension in a statement issued by the Commission, said the action

became necessary in line with the federal government desire to consolidate the achievement of the SIM Card registration exercise of September 2019.

NCC backed up the announcement with a letter it sent to all telecoms operators, and warned that non-compliance with the directive would be met with strict sanctions, including the possibility of withdrawal of operating license.

The Association of Licensed

Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), the umbrella body of licensed telecommunications operators in Nigeria, yesterday issued a statement informing the general public, including its partners that it had directed all its members to comply with the directive and to suspend further sale and activation of SIM card, until after the completion of the consolidation exercise for the audit of subscriber registration database.

A High Court in Benin, capital of Edo State has nullified what it termed the unlawful removal of Estako East Local Government Chairman, Hon. Aremiyau Momoh.

Momoh was suspended and subsequently removed by Governor Godwin Obaseki on allegation of misappropriation of funds as well as his alignment with the removed National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Adams Oshiomole.

However, Momoh approached a state High Court in a suit B/205/2019.

The trial Judge, Justice D. I. Okungbowa, declared that the valid and de jure elected Chairman of Etsako East Local Government Area Council of Edo State by Edo State High Court No 4, Benin City under Hon . Justice D.I. Okungbowa in suit no B/205/2019.

In his judgment delivered yesterday, Justice D.I. Okungbowa of High Court 4, declared the removal of Hon. Momoh by Edo State Governor as null and void.

Justice Okungbowa also directed Momoh to resume office as Chairman immediately.

The trial judge, granted all the prayers contained in the originating Summons filed on behalf of Momoh by his Counsel, West-Idahosa & Co. The Judge held that Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki and the state Government failed to comply with the Provisions of Sections 20 and 21 of Edo State Local Government Law, 2000 (as amended) by failing to consult with the Edo State House of Assembly as provided by Law before suspending Momoh.

The court further held that since the purported suspension was void in law, every other action predicated on it was invalid and awarded the sum of #250,000 as cost in favour of Hon. Momoh.

The court dimissed the notice of preliminary objection filed by Edo State Government challenging the competence of the suit.

Similarly, the motion filled by Edo State Government to arrest the judgment of the court was also dismissed.

Edo 2020: Tribunal Dismisses We’re Handing PDP to Youths for AA Petition Against Obaseki Effective Leadership, Assures Secondus Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal yesterday dismissed the petition filed by Action Alliance (AA) party challenging the exclusion of the party and its candidate from the September 19 2020 governorship election in Edo State.

At the sitting of the tribunal on Monday, counsel to Governor Godwin Obaseki and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said the petitioner failed to file for issuance of pre-hearing notice which is one of the conditions required by the

Electoral Act 2010 and the tribunal consequently adjourned to Friday, December 11( today), for ruling.

Delivering a unanimous ruling, Justice Chukwudi Nwankwo alongside the Chairman of the Tribunal, Justice Abdulrazak Abdulkareem, and the third judge, Justice Josephine Ayua held that in the petition against the first and second respondents, the petitioners failed to file the pre-hearing notice.

Consequently, he said that the petitioners were deemed to have abandoned the petition and, thereafter, dismissed the suit.

The petition is one of five filed by various individuals and their political parties at the Tribunal in their bid to nullify the victory of Governor Obaseki in the poll.

Others include the petition of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) and its governorship candidate, Emmanuel Iboi, against INEC, PDP, Governor Obaseki, as well as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Osagie Ize-Iyamu; and the petition of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) against INEC, PDP, Governor Obaseki, and his deputy, Philip Shaibu.

David-Chyddy Elekein Awka The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, has said that the party had commenced moves to hand over its structure to Nigerian youths to provide effective leadership for the country.

Secondus stated this in Awka, Anambra State, during a national youth summit of the party for the five South eastern states of Nigeria.

Speaking to youths at the summit under the theme: Youth in Governance, PDP the Platform; Secondus said it

had been proven that Nigerian youths were capable of leading the country, and that the summit was meant to prepare them for leadership.

Secondus listed a number of youths in Nigeria and overseas who had succeeded in leadership positions and also used their creative minds to come up with mind blowing inventions.

He said, “This is a summit to build the capacity of the youths and prepare them for leadership. Youths everywhere are the catalysts for development, and we want to prepare our youths through this summit to be able to withstand the challenges of leadership.

“We’re here (Awka) today, and it is a starting point. We will move to other zones of the country and prepare our youths. We will use this (summit) to compare notes with our youths. It is not a rally, but a brainstorming session.

“APC has failed in leadership and also failed in giving the youths a space in their party.

Nigeria is in a mess, but we urge you to be patient and law abiding and to think inwards and find what you can do for your country. PDP remains the hope of Nigeria and we are handing the party over to youths,” he said.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 12, 2020 • T H I S D AY

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͹ͺ˜ ͺ͸ͺ͸ ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

THE LAGOS-IBADAN RAIL TICKET Mujib Dada-Gadri urges government to subsidise rail transport to make it affordable

H

on. Rotimi Amaechi, the Minister of Transportation, was speaking at the inauguration of the governing council of the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA) in Abuja on Friday, 4 December 2020 and he said categorically, “Today I approved the charges on passengers from Lagos to Ibadan, we just transfer how we charged from Abuja.

We charge N3,000 per economy seat, N5,000 for business class, and N6,000 for first class, the same is applicable to Lagos to Ibadan”. He hinted about the commencement of operations by January 2021. The Lagos-Ibadan railway (SGR) is to track on 156km and stations will capture these “corridors”: Apapa, Agege, Agbado, Kajola, Papalanto, Abeokuta, Olodo, Omi-Adio and Ibadan. This is undoubtedly fantastic as this remarkable project connects three states strategically.

What are the cost implications of the railway project?

Lagos-Ibadan rail project is to gulp $1.6bn through a loan scheme masterminded by China Exim Bank subject to federal government of Nigeria fulfilling 15% counterpart funding. China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) is to oversee the construction of the railway which has actually started trial operations. Just like a reaction of lightening to rain, many are already complaining about the ticket charges of between N3000-N6000. Many people are asking why railway transport charges should be more than the cost of road transportation. For example, the cost of road transport from Lagos to Ibadan is not up to N3,000 despite the hike in fuel price. Rail has lower fuel costs compared to road transport, especially when shipping a high volume of freight. Rail also has less costs associated with drivers and typically has better costs.

Furthermore, less is known about the contractual terms involving Nigeria and China but it is vivid that the Lagos-Ibadan railway will be based on concession (build, operate and transfer strategy). The exact years of operation is the biggest controversy as “conflict” will surely arise on whether to run the rail as purely commercial project or “public service project”.

Let’s compare the Mombasa-Nairobi gauge railway and Lagos-Ibadan railway. The Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) is a 480- km-long line that connects the port city of Mombasa with the capital city of Nairobi.

Construction began in 2013, and parts of it completed in 2017 at a cost of approximately USD$3.8 billion. An additional USD$1.5 billion extension to the tourist hub of Naivasha was completed in 2019. While the railway operates passenger services, its primary function is to improve freight transportation to and from the port of Mombasa. It must be emphasized that China Exim Bank also “inspired” the $3.8billion loan to Kenya for this rail project just like it did for Lagos-Ibadan railway but with scary controversies

THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHOULD INITIATE SUBSIDIES FOR RAILWAY SERVICES BY CONVERTING TAXES ON RAILWAY REVENUES TO SUBSIDIES

engulfing the repayments of the loan.

Interestingly, the repayment of the loan whose interest is 3.6% coupled with railway operations is being handled for three years by a Chinese subsidiary. According to Quartz, a reputable online publishing platform, a report by Kenya’s transport ministry stated that in 2018, the railway made a loss of $90.3million in its first year of operation. Port authorities are diverting shipments to the new railway, said a Nairobi-based customs clearance agent. “You are made to pay for it whether you like it or not.” The outcry in Kenya is similar to what we anticipate in Nigeria as Kenyans are dissatisfied with the more expensive rates compared to road transport rates, limiting the benefits to middle-class mostly.

Can rail transport be affordable without government subsidies? Historically and conventionally, it is believed that rail transportation is cheaper compared to road transportation amidst other economic advantages. But many observers have not considered the “subsidy” aspect of it especially as it operates in more advanced countries. For example, fullfact.org reported that the UK government direct subsidy of the railways is around £5 billion per year, an increase of over 200% since “privatisation”. EU rail subsidies amounted to €73 billion in 2005. Subsidies vary widely from country to country in both size and how they are distributed according to European rail study. Prior January 2019, the government of Kenya used to pay subsidies on rail transportation specifically for children between the ages 3-11 specifically Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Rail.

In conclusion, in light of above economic realities, Nigerians must view the statement of the minister of Transportation and proposed railway rates beyond the prism of emotion. The following are the only forthcoming options and solutions to achieve affordable railway services that will be cheaper than road transportation. This is because achieving a cheaper rail transportation is the best maximization of potential in rail transportation which will involve “cheaper cost of transportation of food, cheaper transportation of persons so as to attract more rail users beyond middle-class and allow more consuming power”.

The solutions and options go thus: renegotiating contractual terms with the Chinese company to allow for transparent and frugal operations cost so as not to run into loss or increment of ticket rates. The federal government should initiate subsidies for railway services by converting “taxes on railway revenues to subsidies” and weakest of the option is maintaining the “status quo” which only limits the biggest enjoyment of the Lagos-Ibadan railway to middle-class.

Mujib Dada-Qadri, a Lawyer and Policy Analyst, wrote from Abuja

SALAMI’S REPORT AND MATTERS ARISING The president should do what is right, writes Isa Tijjani

T

he use of raw power to settle personal scores against perceived enemies, is a dastardly but palpable contemporary political reality.

Our own nation’s political landscape has not been devoid of this aberrant behavior.

Even though, our democratic dispensation is still in its infancy, yet it could be seen as being fully replete with these clearly very unpleasant but ubiquitous phenomena.

Just when broad sections of our country are savoring the constitutional order and the rule of law which were being ushered by the dawn of democracy in our great nation, a very hard to bear devastating blow was dealt to these delightful longings, through the open display of raw power by the well- connected powerful government officials, some of whom, are known to be occupying top echelons in the nation’s federal cabinet.

At this stage, allow me to take your restive minds back to the well- orchestrated, dare-devil and commando-styled but widely- reported arrest of the embattled and now suspended chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, which was clumsily carried out in the broad Abuja busy streets, by the security teams of the much dreaded DSS and the mobile police force.

On that fateful day, Nigerians who had witnessed this power brinkmanship, were so petrified by the sheer force exhibited in the course of its poor execution, just as they were thoroughly scandalized all through the short duration the sordid encounter lasted.

The traumatic reverberations left behind by this stormy blitzkrieg, had deeply scorched our city walls which had been well- equipped and fortified with the latest soundproofs and are currently assuming their eerie spread and a clearly terrifying national dimension, with all the negative

consequences that these imply.

News about the raging internal skirmishes between the Justice Minister, who doubles as the Attorney General of the Federation on the one hand, and the nation’s anti-corruption bodies, such as, the EFCC, ICPC and PACP on the other, suddenly started filtering out to the unsuspecting public.

No doubt, the bean was spilled by the duo of professors emeritus Itse Sagay (SAN) and Femi Odekunle, the nation’s renown academics and respected anti-corruption crusaders.

These two very illustrious scholars had courageously informed the perplexed members of the Nigerian public, that, the rather rancorous relationship existing between the Justice minister and the executives of his ministry’s parastatals was not unconnected with the apparent uncooperative attitudes and brazen acts of nonchalance being displayed by the supervising Attorney General of the Federation, who stayed aloof and also adamantly refused to show some tacit support or strong interests in the nation’s galvanized efforts to speedily combat the cankerworm of corruption from our now pestilence- infested national landscape.

Unknown to many Nigerians, the Attorney General of the Federation had within a twinkle of an eye, taken his time to deftly knit a web of calumniating subterfuges which were purposely and clearly designed to permanently sentence and dislodge especially the main protagonist of this suspense- filled drama, the accused chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, to a perilous perdition.

From day one, the chairman of the presidential investigation panel, retired Justice Ayo Salami, threw caution to the wind by flatfootedly denying Mr. Ibrahim

Magu fair hearing and blocking him from access to his lawyers. It took the resultant public outcry provoked by this outrage, to extract a mild concession from this highly experienced retired President of the Court of Appeal (PCA).

This strong suspicion was given credence by the panel chairman’s display of open bias and one -sidedness in handling the whole of this sensitive assignment. It is rather curious, if not altogether strange, that a principal actor in this investigation saga, such as the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation was completely shielded and frantically encouraged from skipping any appearance to answer pertinent questions raised by Magu’s lawyers at the panel.

It is also amusing and a matter of national interest that, side by side with the ongoing panel’s investigation, it was observed that some actions quite prejudicial to these rather crucial investigations, were swiftly being undertaken by the office of the AGF, as if to ridicule the integrity of its authors, and cast aspersion on the credibility of their subsequent recommendations to the President Buhari’s government.

Otherwise, how could one understand the speed with which the AGF used his strong links and personal connections with the Aso Rock Villa, to obtain quick presidential support and even approval, for setting up another agency under his supervision that denuded the EFCC of most of its statutory functions?

It is the culmination of these series of offensive actions clearly calculated to undermine any sense of fairness, justice and the rule of law in our country, that detracted from the merit of the rehashed recommendations which have now been perfunctorily submitted to President Buhari

by the Ayo Salami presidential investigation panel.

It is however comforting that Nigerians who have been following this case with undiminished interest and raft attention, are equally reposing total confidence in the unstinting commitment of President Buhari to always uphold the cause of justice and are also reinforced in this, by his determination to sustain the raging anti-corruption crusade.

Thus, they unfailingly will continue to remain optimistic, that he would deploy his legendary wisdom to see beyond the travesty and the smokescreen placed before him, fervently pray and also keep faith with his ability to consciously and patriotically avoid any association of his good name and well-built reputation with a blatant miscarriage of justice.

Nigerians shall similarly continue to firmly believe that he will proceed to do the right thing, by courageously exonerating all those who are unfairly witch-hunted and condemned especially by the clever use of baseless allegations, trumped- up charges and the display of unrestrained desire to settle perceived personal scores and old grudges bordering on vendetta of deepseated animosity.

Nigerians are also eagerly awaiting the justification of punishment and humiliation of a diligent anti-corruption czar, who has not really been found wanting in any way, other than by the boastful and pernicious manipulation of the Attorney General of the Federation and his tribe of desperate acolytes. The unmistakable reality, in all of these, is that, truth remains a burden in the heart of every liar and conspirator.

Comrade Isah Tijjani, mni is a Kano based veteran Labour Leader.

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͹ͺ˜ ͺ͸ͺ͸ ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

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Why Nigeria is on US Blacklist

N

igeria is an exceptionally intolerant country – religion-wise. In fact, the country is next to Iran on the religious intolerance threshold.

You could get killed, threatened, hounded, harassed and victimised for going against the religious orthodoxies. The two major religions in Nigeria – Christianity and Islam -- bubble with the most fanatical of followers who elect themselves ‘’defenders of God’’.

In their inquisition, death is the penalty for every perceived breach of the holy canons. There is no other way.

Over the years Nigeria has been on the US watch-list for religious intolerance. I must say, this problem has always been with us, but perhaps it became accentuated with the divisive propensity of the Buhari administration. The blacklisting of Nigeria by the US for violations of religious freedom cannot be argued otherwise. The reasons given by America for its decision are germane – if considered dispassionately.

One of the reasons on which the US situated its action is tolerance for religious violence and support for egregious religious violations by the Buhari administration.

“The secretary and really the world have great concern about what’s taking place in Nigeria at this time, and a number of terrorist groups are organising and pushing into the country. We’re seeing a lot of religious-tinged violence taking place in that country and indeed in West Africa. It’s an area of growing concern about what’s happening, in particular the tension that’s taking place there between religious groups. And it’s often the religious affiliation is used to try to recruit and inspire violent acts,” Samuel Brownback, US ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom, said.

“You’ve got expanded terrorist activities, you’ve got a lot of it associated around religious affiliations, and the government’s response has been minimal to not happening at all. A number of cases – there have not been criminal cases brought forward by the government. The terrorism continues to happen and grow, in some places unabated.’’

That the Buhari administration harbours religious zealots is indubitable. Bashir Ahmad, personal assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari, did not cloak its religious zealotry and extremist complexion when he declared his support for death against blasphemy.

These are the words of an aide of Nigeria’s president which he wrote on Twitter: ‘’I can’t pretend or keep silent. I support the death penalty for blasphemy.

That’s my belief and I do not and will never support #saveKanonine.’’

It is clear that the government at the highest level is tepid about issues of religious extremism. We must not be hypocritical about the US blacklisting of our country. We are an extremist nation. One singer in Kano is still in the gulag for alleged blasphemy awaiting a tragic end. What has the Buhari administration

done in the case of this singer despite the global outcry for his release?

Nothing!

Yet, Lai Mohammed, minister of information, claims the government ‘’protects religious freedom jealously’’. Where is the freedom when people are threatened with death for allegedly going contrary to the religious grain? Where is the freedom when an actress, Rahama Sadau, who wore a beautiful dress in a photo shoot, was threatened with death for alleged blasphemy for simply wearing a nice-looking dress?

This actress was even reported to the police. How tragic! Where is the freedom when Hisbah, the religious police in Kano, go from house to house looking for sinners; arresting people in hotels and destroying alcoholic drinks? Where is the freedom when a religious law subsists in a country that touts itself as secular?

Let us cut out the bull-crap and face up to the truth. We are an extremist nation. We create the environment for extremists to rise and thrive; a system where a law within the law allows death for blasphemy will fecund extremism. Those holding up death for blasphemy are only pushing the agenda of Boko Haram. How are they different?

The US also cited the government’s vapid response to issues of religious violence, particularly as regards Boko Haram as one of its reasons for giving Nigeria the hammer. Let us chew on this fact. Is the Buhari administration’s decision to rehabilitate and release terrorists into the civil population while an insurgency is still raging not a declaration of sympathy for them and other religious extremists?

Let me make it clear, religious extremists abound in Christianity as well. Why we are not having violent fundamentalism is because one pastor, general overseer or bishop has not given his adherents their marching orders. We could, perhaps, have a bigger problem in our hands when Christian fundamentalists bear firearms. So, extremism is not limited to one religion.

Nigeria is an extremist nation. It incubates and nurtures extremists – both Christians and Muslims.

Fredrick Nwabufo is a writer and journalist T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR FESTUS AKANBI 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 HEAD, COMPUTER DEPARTMENT PATRICIA UBAKA-ADEKOYA TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Insecurity in the North

E

arlier this year, one of my friends, then a serving corps member in Jigawa State was whisked away by kidnappers along the dreaded Kano/Kaduna expressway. That experience, coupled with the fact that I last spoke with him on my birthday was as harrowing and heart-breaking. He spent 10 horrible days inside the den of horror, surviving on white rice, palm oil and fear of imminent death that await those who couldn’t arrange for ransom. He was one of them.

As of the time I spoke with him mid this year, he narrated his ordeal, recounting how one of the kidnappers pointed an AK47 rifle on his skull threatening to blow off his head for failing to raise ransom. Fortunately, he was rescued alongside others by men of Nigeria Police Force who followed a tip which eventually turned out to be true.

Around late October, another friend of mine was also kidnapped on his way to visiting his ailing father in Zamfara State. This time, his abductors requested for a ransom of N1.5 million. Raising such huge amount at this pandemic period appears first a Herculean task but with persuasive message, intended to solicit for help, the money was raised. As I sat with him one breezy evening to discuss his ordeals, I knew the nightmarish experience is etched permanently in his memory. These two stories are same for most Nigerians in the North. They mirrored hopelessness and helplessness and reflected the tragedy and trauma of being a Nigerian. A complete textbook example of a failing state.

That is why the scary security situation in the North should baffle everyone irrespective of region or religion.

The precarious turn of things should elicit sober reflection while it bounds us beyond ethnic and fault lines. As an existential threat to our fledging democracy, the need for proactive, adaptive and creative measures aimed at cushioning this pang while stemming its ugly tide has never been more urgent.

What the North is witnessing is akin to Hobbesian state of nature where life was “Brutish, solitary, nasty, short, and poor”. This is evidenced in the breakdown of security architecture across the country and especially in the North where the once vibrant and brilliant Nigerian security operatives continue to remain silently indifferent, grossly inactive and utterly incapable of holding bandits, terrorists and kidnappers by jugular.

Indicatively, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar’s indicting speech on the state of insecurity in the region clarifies misconceptions political hangers-on might want to create. Being a foremost traditional and religious rulers with military background, the Sultan’s speech hits government hardest while it paints the debilitating security scenario with its ripple effects on the socio-economic standing of the region.

Muftau Adewale Gbadegesin, muftaugbadegesin@gmail.com

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 12, 2020

SUPER SATURDAY Tolani Olatoni

I Love Telling Stories and Living Life Voraciously Tolani Olatoni exudes creativity. Manic kind of; her countenance gives her away as such. It may not be far from her multiplicity of talent which impulsively throb her. A Disc Jockey, a Mobile Rave organiser, a Bartender, and now a Filmmaker, Olatoni has done more than mentioned. The CEO and Creative Head at Sourmash Stories Production in this chat with Ferdinand Ekechukwu talks about growing up, family, journey into theatre and film, her directorial debut, “The New Normal”, which has been so well received, and more about her that is hitherto unknown

W terms.

ho is Teniola Olatoni?

Teniola Olatoni is a 40 something-year-old creative who loves God, family, film, adventure, creating new things, has always wanted to tell stories and lives life voraciously on her own

What was it like growing up and what fond childhood memory do you hold?

Growing up surrounded by my siblings and cousins, many days felt like special events! Fondest memories include creeping to watch Mirror In The Sun and Behind The Clouds when we should have been in bed, learning the lines of Jimi Odumosu’s Fiery Force and Lola Fani-Kayode’s Mind Bending and acting it out! I’m laughing at the memories even now. Those were definitely fun times.

How did your background and formative years shape you?

My parents Lanre and Dupe Ogunlesi as well as my Grandparents on both sides are disciplined, hardworking folks. So there is no excuse and no room for nonsense. They taught me love of self, love of fellow beings, kindness and respect for all, to be confident, and follow my dreams. So, each time someone says to me ‘you are so humble’, I want to ask, ‘as opposed to what?’ The manifestation of their constant love and support is the Teniola you see today.

At what point did you start thinking about making movies and would you be seen taking up any acting role soon?

Ah! No acting for me o! I am enough drama on my own! Coloured hair, piercings and tattoos? Behind the camera and prepping the production is where I am happiest.

I am elated my directorial debut The New Normal has been so well received.

Olatoni

What other profession would have caught your fancy if you had not opted for what you are doing now?

I have been a DJ, a Mobile Rave organiser, a Bartender, Owner/Manager at Adam & Eve Luxury Homeware Store, Creative Genius at Gems of Nubia Contemporary Jewelry, Restauranteur at La Cachette and Rodizzio to get here. 1st of January 2018, it was crunch time. Note to self was ‘Do it NOW or forever shut up!’ Two and a half years later, here we are post film school and theater production of The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives, it’s The New Normal!

This for me has been a 20+ years dream deferred and I am just so thrilled to finally be doing it.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 12, 2020

15

SUPER SATURDAY ...No Acting for Me O! I Am Enough Drama On My Own!

How supportive were your family and friends to your decision to venture into movie making?

Extremely so! Everyone went above and beyond to support, especially with locations and other logistics otherwise this would have cost thrice as much and probably not as good. Your tribe has to be in your corner o!

Your latest movie, The New Normal, has been widely received, with two prestigious awards. Tell us about the journey to making it and what was the motivation behind the movie?

I had a bunch of stories playing around in my head that just needed to be told. Things I have encountered and watched other people deal with. Things so many people experience but as a society, we never talk about. I see how people suffer in silence, afraid of other people’s judgement and unable to seek solutions even for the smallest things. I shared them with my writer, Tunde Babalola and he did an amazing job with the script. I was nervous about directing it myself. Tunde and Tobi (my Associate Producer) said to me ‘Teni, it’s your story, you tell it!’ I borrowed brain from there and it was game on!

How has the reception been at home,

what is your projection and will it go on Netflix after the cinema run?

Reception has been brilliant! The feedback from those who have watched it has been overwhelming. I just want to encourage more people to go see it. You’ll learn a thing or two and you’ll definitely be better for it.

The characters are so relatable. You’ll find yourself changing how you think and treat people. We are exploring all avenues to make sure everyone gets to see it.

What has the experience been like since venturing into Nollywood?

Nollywood is growing, getting better and if we all keep bringing our A game to the table, we will all reap the rewards. I’m resilient and I’m here to stay – like it or lump it.

You seem to appear more in casuals.

What’s your definition of style?

My definition of my style is Teni o! I’m always dressed for comfort first and I always do me.

What has been your high and low moment in life?

I don’t do lows o! I am thankful for every moment and count on God to make it all end in praise. High moments – being alive, seeing my children grow and develop and of course seeing my name and movie in

lights!

It’s a common notion (probably wrong) that showbiz is no place for decent women who want to build a home and family. In your assessment, what do you think?

That has to be one of the most condescending statements if ever and a terrible mindset to have. It is just another way of limiting great potential. Many of us have successful balanced home life, thriving children and careers. And decent by whose standards anyway?! Abeg they should get with ‘The New Normal!’ In fact, they should go and watch it to help them keep their judgmental boots at bay.

You are the CEO and Creative Head at Sourmash Stories Production. Tell us more about this company?

It is hard work but I am so enjoying it and having fun all the way. Sourmash Stories is my medium for telling stories via Film, Theatre or TV. As long as it is strong, impactful stories, we are there.

What’s the plan for Teniola Olatoni moving forward…what next can we look forward to from you?

More stories of course. Follow us @ sourmashstories and me @teniolaolatoni on social media for regular updates.

16

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ECEMBER 12, 2020

TRIBUTE

Good Night, Abiggy-Biggy Annie Okonkwo

efficiency is unsurpassed and her absence was greatly felt by all.

She was not just an officer but a very valuable asset to our nation. Under her leadership and guidance, many young minds bloomed and she showed them the way to success. Projects and tasks were made simpler whenever she had taken the lead. Very rarely do we get to see a person like her with a unique combination of vision, apprehension and fairness. With her hard work and enthusiasm she took many of her colleagues to new heights of success and because of her amicable nature, she developed friendships in these years.

On several occasion, she had gone out of her way to assist/ render help to many persons who were faced with one difficulty or the other in clearing their goods. I happened to be one of the greatest beneficiaries of this kind gesture and that was a huge plus to my business growth.

She was an inspiring mentor to many and was also truly a rare gem who was missed by her colleagues and others after her retirement. May her soul rest in peace.

T

oday, I finally summoned the courage to overcome the mind riddling and sad event that occurred on Tuesday, the 27th of October, 2020. The demise of our beloved sister, Mrs Chinwe Ngonadi.

Certainly, death is inevitable! Every living soul has its death coupon already issued depending on when, where and how. But it is most certain that we will all embark on that eternal journey someday. In spite of this, we still grieve when we lose our beloved ones, particularly, those that were too dear to us.

It’s difficult for me to hold back my tears that drifts down my face as I’m writing this piece with my heart fiery from the innermost, telling me that, from now on, we will spend the rest of our lives here on earth without our loving, caring, and encouraging sister. It’s really an irreparable loss which has created a vacuum that cannot be filled.

Abiggy-Biggy, as I fondly call you, I am just wondering where else we can get the heartfelt love and care you lavished on us?

Who else will always make sure I have my banana and groundnut anytime I’m in Ojoto? Who else will be there to always call me “Agu nnia?” It’s really sad how you left us without saying goodbye. It’s hard to live knowing that you are not coming back....Anyway, we take solace in the fact that you lived a good life. A life that we are all proud of.

My dear sister, it’s very difficult to say goodbye but we will always have a special place in our hearts for you. You will be missed dearly.

As a true Christian and singer

She was a woman of simplicity, nobility and gentility, an ardent listener, then a singer, the combination of which established her as a true Christian. While her singing prowess delighted her audience, her gentle and kind nature won people’s hearts.

Big Chy’s simplicity came from a synthesis of experience and wisdom; yet she was down to earth and had respect for everyone, regardless of their age or experience. She was unpretentious and charming, self-effacing yet dignified, exuding an air of calm and confidence that always drew people to her.

Her unique singing style and indeed many of her compositions are proof of her musical prowess. The dexterity with which she composed a handful of songs kept us wanting more.

She had the stamina and adroitness of a brilliant composer who could do much more.

She gave every songs a rare freshness in the lyrics, vibrancy in the tune and composition which she enriched with the beauty

Ngonadi of her voice.

Listening to one of the hymns, “Ii is well with my soul” which she sang at the service of songs for late Barr. Chizoba, gave me some relief knowing that she was always a happy woman, it is well.

As a great personality

Nothing breaks our hearts more than having a world (or home) that no longer has you in it. You weren’t one in a million but just you, and it was an honour to have shared this life with you because you are a success, who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much, who has gained the respect of intelligent men and women and the love of children, who has filled her niche and accomplished her task. Who left the world better than she found it, who has never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty or failed to express it, who looked for the best in others and gave the best she had.

You’ve been the source of progress, cheerfulness, courage to many, and a strong pillar upon which they rest. You were a rare gem!

As an officer

On this occasion of my beloved sister’s death, let me take the honor of remembering her for her peerless performance during her years in the Nigeria Customs Service. She was a very dedicated and diligent member of our Custom service, whose

As a philanthropist

As I try to write this short tribute honoring the life of a woman who has rendered tremendous service to humanity, I’m still in absolute disbelief and pain over her untimely death.

Her unassuming, warm and laconic style belied the powerful drive and intelligence which brought her success in many fields.

Her philanthropy was imbued with her personal values, and the deep commitment to social wellbeing and justice which could be seen in the different social, political and religious aspects of her life. She acknowledged the powerful influence of faith and charity in her own development as a philanthropist, and this she exemplified by her ardent belief that as members of society, we have responsibilities to each other. A core value that was drummed into me in all the years that I have come to know her. It is one which has continued to motivate me through my career as a humanitarian and as a philanthropist too.

There is no single soul connected to “Big Chi” that has not benefitted from her goodwill gesture and wealth, either directly or indirectly, far and near. Evidence of these humanitarian instincts coming together can be seen in her work; donations to the motherless babies and “Umu-ada” Ojoto, her usual children’s party and women empowerment of every December, to mention but a few.

Her extraordinary ability and entrepreneurialism combined with her generosity, compassion and persona made her a very special humanitarian, and we will miss her greatly.

Senator Annie Okonkwo writes from Lagos

Otu, the Humanitarian Goes Home Paul Obi

M

ore than four centuries ago, an English Poet and a Thespian from Stratford-upon-Avon, William Shakespeare indicated that a “valiant never taste dead but once.” He held that death, as part of human cosmology and circle of life is a necessity that must come. As mere mortals, and as the Holy Bible postulated, we do not know the hour. Our duty therefore is merely to live our lives in preparation for that calling and sojourn to the great beyond. Once the curtains fall, our humanity takes its last breath and our lives nosedive in perpetuity; our contact with the world ceases. Only by our deeds and legacies are our lives sustained by memory. Or they vanquished as well.

For the late Chief Ben Nkpe Otu, former Director of Finance (Legislative Aides), National Assembly, Abuja, his sudden death, as shocking as it is, provides ample opportunity for reflection with regard to our earthly journey. For those who know Otu very well, he was not born with a silver spoon. But through dint of hard work and God’s faithfulness, he triumphed from ground zero to greatness.

Knowing full well where it pinches, Otu will dedicate a larger part of his life to helping the poor, needy and downtrodden.

He had great zeal for education and knowledge, and was interested in bequeathing knowledge to young men and women in order to transform them to better humans in the society. Scholarship to indigent students remains his greatest contribution to the needy.

Despite daunting challenges that he confronted in acquiring education, he believed education was a leveller in several respects. It was in this regard that he made scholarship the bedrock of his philanthropy and other charity works.

Otu was also a man that was home with nature, communal life and community service as embedded in Boki tradition of Cross River State.

Across Boki, Ben Otu’s kindness and magnanimity are in certain quarters. As a colossus and an illustrious son of Boki, he rendered selfless community service even beyond his domain.

He likewise connected with people easily, with a mien that was receptive and embracing.

In an era where hypocrisy and sycophancy are sometimes deliberately misconceived as humility, Otu’s humble posture was untainted and could be likened to a celestial gift.

Otu was born on November 26, 1959 to late Mr. John Otu of Kakwagom-Irruan in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State. He attended St Peter ’s Primary School (RCM), Kakwagom-Irruan; Boki Boys Secondary School, Okundi, Boki and the prestigious Mary Knoll College, Okuku, Yala in the then Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State.

He had degrees from the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa and University of Calabar.

As a trained Accountant and civil servant, Otu worked meritoriously and grew through the ranks. As the Director of Finance (Legislative Aides), National Assembly, a position, he held with high sense of dedication and commitment, he was up to the task and responsibility of the office. With his retirement from service some months ago, many had longed to celebrate his service to the nation and humanity with pomp and aplomb. Similarly, plans were underway by the Ochibè Bokyì, the highest ranking sociopolitical association of the Boki people, led by Major General Moses Obi (Rtd), to honour Otu for his service to humanity. As it turned out, that celebration will never be, as Otu, a humanitarian and philanthropist went to be with the Lord Almighty on November 22, 2020.

Otu

As his remains will be committed to mother earth this weekend in Kakwagom-Irruan in Boki Local Government Area, Otu’s death might have been sudden, but his legacies and the will to go the whole hog to extend a helping hand will ever remain timeless and indelible landmark of history. His adventures during his time on earth, in the same token, will continue to count in the lives of many he touched positively. And, as J.K. Rowling posited, “To a well-organised mind, death is but the next great adventure.” Fare Thee Well Chief Ben!

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹ͺ˜2020

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Flavour of Africa MoyinOluwa Olutayo I Don’t Grab Every Offer That Comes My Way pg. 19

‘Our Jesus Story’ Now in Cinemas pg. 20

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹ͺ˜2020

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SHOWBIZFLAIR

Flavour of Africa Flavour N’abania’s 7th studio album, ‘Flavour of Africa’ is now on the shelve, with the video of ‘Looking Nyansh’, a track from this body of work causing commotion, writes Ferdinand Ekechukwu

A

few days back, Flavour N’abania or simply Flavour released his seventh studio album, ‘Flavour of Africa.’

It’s a 16 track album.

The Afro-pop/Highlife singer’s ‘Flavour of Africa’ seems the last offering from the rank of top Nigerian artistes in the year 2020 that had acts like 2baba, Tiwa Savage, Davido, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Olamide, Yemi Alade release albums.

Released under Flavour’s 2Nite Entertainment and OneRPM, the much awaited Flavour of Africa is just in time for December. For months, fans eagerly awaited the release of this record which features a number of guest artiste like Fally Ipupa, Tekno, Phyno, Biggie Igba, Beenie Man, Waga G & Larry Gaga, also has the star act of “Odumeje – The Liquid Metal”. The Album opens with the title track which introduces him as the Flavour, Spice of Africa before proceeding to share that a good wife is a gift of favour/ blessings obtained from the Lord.

On the second track Flavour talks about the essence of having a Good Woman and taking proper care of her, holding her tight without losing God’s blessings. Noting women are confident and can risk their all for the ones they love and whoever cherishes them. This album comprises of the Afrobeats; R’n’B, Highlife, Afropop and contemporary jazz sound which defines his brand of music. The album production credits goes to Masterkraft, Selebobo, Spax, Marvio, DJ Tunez and others. Flavour who sings fluently in his Igbo tongue switches between English and Yoruba, another native dialect on this music project.

Real name Chinedu Okoli, Flavour has grown to be immensely popular and enjoys huge fan base as he has not been disappointing when it comes to dropping hit albums and singles. The multi-instrumentalist once noted: “As a musician, I’ve transformed, evolved, and transcended within my music and social responsibilities.”

However, Flavour’s new music video for ‘Looking Nyansh’, a track from ‘Flavour of Africa’ is getting negative reviews following a scene in which the singer carried a butt naked lady on his shoulders.

Flavour’s other albums are N’abania (2005), Uplifted (2010), Blessed (2012), Thankful (2014), Ijele the Traveler (2017), Awele (2018), as well as his joint ‘40 Years’ EP with songstress Chidinma Ekile, which had ignited dating rumours in 2019.

Flavour is popular across Africa for his hit song “Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)” contained in the Uplifted album. Aside from “Nwa Baby” (Ashawo Remix), “Adamma”, and “Oyi Remix” featuring Tiwa Savage, were the other hit songs in Uplifted. The album’s success made Flavour one of Africa’s most sought out artistes. He believed the album would surpass his previous works.

His projection came true when the album broke national barriers.

Lolhiphop Records, in South Africa, released the album after popular demand.

“Blessed” was released through 2nite Entertainment and iROCK-

Flavour’ album cover

ING LTD. It is arguably adjudged Flavour’s biggest album to date due to the number of producers that worked on it. It was launched on the same day of Flavour’s 2nite

Club grand opening. In an interview with iROKTV, Flavour said: “I think I’m growing. This is my third album. Now it’s time to give them the music, like define myself. I have

to be more mature with my music, lyrics and instrumentation wise. I worked with tons of producers and the whole production process made sense.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹ͺ˜2020

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SHOWBIZFLAIR MoyinOluwa Olutayo

I Don’t Grab Every Offer That Comes My Way MoyinOluwa Olutayo, an actor, filmmaker, content creator, TV host, Compere and Media consultant has carved a niche for herself through excellent interpretations of her various roles in several soap operas since late 80s. In this encounter with Festus Akanbi, she speaks on her journey so far, the potential in the Nollywood industry, and other topical issues remaining relevant in the industry demands discipline, principle, integrity and craft. Those who come majorly because of fame get their fingers burnt in no time. By the grace of God I have stayed true to my craft and never allowed my gaze shift from my target. My driving force is captured in one of my popular quotes: ‘Focus: Eagle’s Mentality.’

I

’m an interesting character with many sides I am an indegene of Ondo State, based in Lagos. I did my primary and secondary schools in Lagos after which I proceeded to University of Ibadan and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English. People say I’m an interesting character with many sides to me ...lol! I’m an actor, filmmaker, content creator TV host, Compere & Media consultant.

I’m married to a wonderful husband who supports me all the way. We’re both ordained ministers of God and are blessed with beautiful children. ...they’re all grown now, we don’t have teenager in the house anymore ...lol!

I developed interest in acting right from my early days School years were all round fun for me. ...I developed interest in acting right from my early days. I grew up knowing ‘it’s in me’ ...I represented both my primary and secondary schools in drama competitions, debate & sports. These were my high points all through primary & high school days.

Making up my mind to pursue acting as a career was the easiest of all, because while still in secondary school, I already took part in drama series that gave me much needed exposure.

Way back, for those very familiar with JAMB system of admission into universities will understand this... I applied to study Theartre Arts in the University of Ibadan, upon going to Ikoyi JAMB office then like other applicants to check out results and placement, my name was on the list and to study Theartre Arts but like you know with our system, we were told on that faithful day by one of the officers, ‘this is not the final list, but you can be assured that once your name appears on this list you have a placement in the University of your choice.’

When the admission letter arrived, I was offered English Language. So, what did I do? ...I took compulsory courses in Theartre Arts alongside my course - English - and made the best of the two courses. I must confess it has worked well for me thus far. While in the university, I played lead role in a television drama series that aired in all the Western States of Nigeria between 1989-1991.

I was also involved in major TV soaps running on NTA Lagos and NTA Network.

Same time I was a major player as a model, I was the face of many Brands then, what is now known as Brand Ambassador. Though I had a brief time working in an Advertising firm but I went into full television programming in 1994 as TV host and Producer of TV programmes. It’s been a beautiful experience and I’m still counting.

Nollywood not where it should be If you ask about the current state of the entertainment industry, I’ll ‘joyfully’ state that it’s great compared to where we’re coming from.

Nigeria’s entertainment industry, especially “Nollywood” is arguably the second-largest film producer in the world today in terms of number of movies. However, in comparison to what is obtainable in the western world, regrettably, this is not where we should be right at this time with the level of global advancement.

Beauty tips Well, as much as it lies with me, I try to be at peace with all. This gives me inner peace and joy that radiate for all to see. In addition, I do regular workout whenever I can and I try not to indulge in excesses.

Maintaining the balance between acting and home front The simple thing for me is setting my priority right. I don’t grab every offer that comes my way, I’m selective and I always remind myself I have a family to protect.

Current project The current project I’m working on now as an Associate Producer and lead actor is titled Seeds & Harvests. It’s a drama series and just started airing on DSTV. I have a couple of movies coming out in the Cinemas starting this month December and other projects in pre-production stage geared for 2021 by God’s grace. Awesome times ahead for my fans. Please watch out.

Making extra money to keep up the standard in movies As actors, we play different roles in films; from the high and mighty, to playing a poor character, some illiterates, and many more.

So, I don’t understand what you mean by ‘keeping up the standard they display in films’. Well, I’m an actor, a filmmaker, content creator, I host TV shows and consult too. I’ve been a consultant to LAMATA on Event and Stakeholders Management for a while now.

I also get contracted to produce movies and drama series by companies.

Effects of economic situation The situation is affecting us in the industry so bad that many times our shoots are disrupted by urchins, equipment are damaged and high level of extortion go on daily. In fact, some of these ugly incidents have resulted in untimely death of some practitioners. It is a precarious situation we have found ourselves as a nation and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to work and do business in Nigeria without fear of the unknown.

Ol Olutayo

According to verifiable reports, the industry employs about a million people and generates over US$7 billion for the economy and this accounts for 1.4% of GDP according to IMF reports, yet, we are where we are ...it’s disheartening. Truth be told, there’s a whole lot the Government can do to upgrade and better the lot of the industry stakeholders.

Quality of acting in the Nollywood Well, I must say I’m proud of how far we have come and what we have become as practitioners, especially with global achievements so far in the industry. Some actors in the Nollywood industry have risen in their acts and have won international awards. ...attesting to how far we have up our game.

Though I can’t shy away from the reality that

the industry also has some who don’t have any business being there, a case of square pegs in round holes ...but hey, just like some other professions too, it is what it is.

Job satisfaction Wow, ...let me just state that ‘No one can put a right price tag’ on intellectual property or worth. What is done basically is to complement efforts. Again, I must admit some of us now sing better tune than before. ...let’s say we have paid our dues ....permit me to laugh out loud.

Emphasis on soap operas There’s nothing I am today without the grace of God. He has been and remains my source of strength. Having said that, I must say

Message to President Muhammadu Buhari Mr. President sir, fix Nigeria for good. It is doable.

Sexual harassment in Nollywood I cannot pretend I have not heard of such claims but, I cannot authenticate it as I’m not, and was never a victim. My humble admonition though to young ladies with passion for the industry is to invest in themselves; acquire knowledge, garner information and develop your talent/gift so that you can build some level of confidence and aura as you venture in. That way, you don’t appear timid before any producer or director and get forced into undue project.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹ͺ˜2020

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Scenes from the movie...

‘Our Jesus Story’ Now in Cinemas Biblically themed movie, Our Jesus Story, which opened in cinemas yesterday, is a love story on various levels and with its fair version that will make viewers wish for more.

Ferdinand Ekechukwu reports

O

ur Jesus Story, the first of its kind African new interpretation and the use of an all-black African cast and crew, has opened in cinemas nationwide and promises to be a delightful watch and a totally deeper cinema experience this Christmas. The movie which premiered at the Imax Cinema in Lekki, Lagos had been put on hold just a few days after the event following the lockdown until yesterday when it started showing.

The much anticipated African twist and narrative to the universallyknown story of Jesus the Christ titled, Our Jesus Story, offers resounding resonance of acclaims and praises, judging from the reactions and accolades already heaped on the film by those privileged to have seen the feature film at the much attended movie premiere. The movie tells the story of a pastor who went to a village and changed their perspective

about their evil culture and embraced Jesus.

It follows the story of Tumbiika, a young man condemned to death for love in his pagan native land. He braves an escape from death by the whiskers, but twenty years later, he returns to his people and finds them as ready to put him to death as they were decades back, but they were in for a shocker as they find him now ready to die. His role model was Jesus Christ. His story would plunge the people into battle.

Speaking on the film, Ojiofor Ezeanyeache of OJ Productions said: “This movie is a special movie. It is a Jesus Story. The script for this movie has been written for 10 years now. . . As you know this is not our usual movie.

I have watched this movie more than 10 times but each time, I have a different experience. So, there must be something supernatural about this movie. When you watch the foreign one some people don’t connect.”

Directed by ace filmmaker, TChidi Chikere, Our Jesus Story features top

acts like Zack Orji, Sam Dede, Frederick Leonard, Eucharia Anunobi, among others. Giving insight to the movie, Chikere explains: “I’ve made faith based movies in the past but not for the big screen and definitely not on a big scale like Our Jesus Story. To make a movie that goes back in time we knew the basic places to get right apart from the story plot, and these were costumes and locations.

“Artistes’ looks too - hair and makeup as well as props. Footwear which is part of costume was also a major thing to get right. Before we cast Frederic Leonard for the role we had cast other actors who ran away from the role because they discovered they couldn’t play it or hold it down convincingly. Playing Jesus is not an easy task. And writing the script, I had to keep reading the bible back and forth and adding insights I got from studying theology on my own.

“New and deeper interpretations of the words Christ said while dying

on the cross. Deeper meanings to his relationship with his Apostles, especially Peter who we know is very forceful and a fighter. At some point we had to deal with the elements… rain…sun.

They did not pity us while we were filming in exotic locations that best show the times of Christ.”

Frederick Leonard who plays the Jesus character, made a really good attempt at portrayal. Perhaps, the most interesting part of it was when he recalls being asked, during the premiere, what he found most challenging about the role and he replies that it was the fact that he’s very soft-spoken, very meek, yet very authoritative, very strong, very stern, and very direct. So how do you portray all of those emotions without coming off as brash? It took a lot of work.”

The movie is a love story on various levels and with its fair version that will make you laugh, and cry, think, and wish for more. It is deep in its epic features, and it is African.

COVID-19: Young African Filmmakers Back Anti-Misinformation Initiative Seven short films aimed at combating COVID-19 misinformation have been produced by the 2020 cohort of the MultiChoice Talent Factory Academy, putting the talent of young African filmmakers to work on one of the world’s current biggest challenges.

The films are part of the United Nations’ Pause campaign, a wider behaviour change campaign that aims to create a new social media norm to help combat the rising impact of viral misinformation. The short films will air on MultiChoice channels between 9 and 31 December 2020. The MultiChoice Group is providing the airtime as part of its ongoing support of the campaign.

The filmmakers, who are from Nigeria, Mozambique, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe, tackled the subject through a variety of approaches, often using humour and

slang to deliver vital and punchy lifesaving messages that appeal to local viewers.

“We recognise the transformative power of media and the critical role we play to educate audiences about the dangers of misinformation through these short films, which have enabled us to share hyperlocal information with our audiences,” says Caroline Oghuma, Executive Head: Corporate Affairs, MultiChoice Nigeria The MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) is MultiChoice’s flagship shared-value initiative launched in 2018 to ignite Africa’s creative film and TV industries through training and skills development. The MTF Academy is a 12-month fully funded training programme aimed at upskilling the next generation of passionate young film creatives. As the first touchpoint of the shared-value initiative, the MTF Academy’s one-of-a-kind curriculum

is expertly executed under the guidance of regional Academy Directors Njoki Muhoho (East Africa hub), Berry Lwando (Southern Africa hub), Femi Odugbemi (West Africa hub) and Bobby Heaney (South Africa hub).

The Pause campaign is part of Verified, an initiative launched in May by the United Nations to communicate accessible science-backed health information in compelling formats and sharing stories of global solidarity around COVID-19. Pause is the first global behaviour change campaign on misinformation to mobilise experts and researchers, governments, influencers, civil society, businesses, regulators and the media under a single message. It is aimed at increasing media literacy to enable social media users to spot misinformation and stop themselves from passing it on.

The campaign is based on research that

indicates that a brief pause significantly lessens the inclination to share shocking or emotive material thereby slowing the spread of misinformation.

It aims to reach a global audience of 1 billion globally, online and through partnerships, by the end of December.

“We cannot successfully tackle the pandemic without also addressing online misinformation. We’re thrilled to be working with the talented young African filmmakers at the MultiChoice Talent Factory, who have brought such creativity and passion to this project.

We hope young people across Africa will see themselves in these films and take action to help break the chain of misinformation by pausing before they share,” said Robert Skinner, UN Senior Adviser for Global Communications.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 12, 2020

PERSPECTIVE COVID-19: Battle over Insurance Coverage Odimegwu Onwumere

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ome insurance firms argue that they would pay COVID-19 claim, while others said they would not. In some countries like South Africa, there have been litigations with defendants and plaintiffs asking court to define whether there should be payment to the insureds or not.

In other countries like Nigeria, the umbrella body of insurers, the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), believed that its member-companies would honour claims arising from COVID-19.

Looking for proof to back the supposition, some experts argued that there was a similar controversy that surrounded insurance policies in Tunisia and Egypt during the Arab Spring.

To the experts, decision on the matter was characterised by confusion given that every policy operated different wordings.

Some believed that they had claim on life and have not to break head on that; and however, the different wordings or policies were operated by different firms, it was a slap on their face when regulators were imposing pronouncements on the reinsurers about paying the insureds.

“On the insurer side, we are quite clear that a pandemic is not covered when it comes to business interruption (BI), but on the client side there is a lot of confusion,” said Rajiv Ranjan, CMO and executive director at East African insurer Mayfair.

Some believed that till reinsurers can do a proper audit, they will not ascertain number of policies out there. Notwithstanding, some firms had manifestly said they won’t pay for reasons best known to them. Others said they would pay and their reasons were curiously stated.

At Continental Re, Mr. Lawrence Nazare, Executive Director said: “We are reinsuring group life and the wording does specifically exclude pandemics. We did advise the market at the start of this crisis, sending out a circular making sure they were aware of the exclusion and that it would be triggered when the World Health Organisation declared the pandemic.”

Some who agreed on what to or not to pay however defined terms of their stance, saying that as it stood, there was financial market decline, reducing their ability to handle the reality.

According to analysts, “The capital buffers of some of the largest reinsurance companies have been significantly shrunken by the financial market decline seen in the last months because of the COVID-19 outbreak, potentially reducing their ability to weather any major catastrophic events that occurred.”

Confusion of what to make of the pandemic There was serious confusion of what reinsurers on the continent would make of the pandemic situation. The pressure was on them, and there was insignificant apprehension surrounding regulators about which company would still be solvent after the pandemic.

At East Africa Re, the CEO, Peter Maina said, “We may have a problem in the future if claims start coming through.

Treaties are very silent on the issue of pandemic.”

Experts believed that the pandemic had paved way for loss

of premiums given that there were scarcity of businesses and this might affect businesses during the year and next year.

According to Nazare, “One of the largest insurers maintained that there is a suppliers’ extension for BI that was sold as part of their property policies and might in fact respond to COVID-19 without needing any physical damage. We are investigating.

“We do participate in some policies that were written by this insurer in Namibia, but at the moment, we don’t have a clear answer. There is a fear that in South Africa there will be significant losses arising out of that extension.”

Experts saw this as “the greater risk”. According to the group CEO and Managing Director of Africa Re, Dr. Corneille Karekezi, “No one is really working at the moment, so it is hard for us to react...The one group that is really working is the IT sector, because they have been in demand like never before as we all work from home.

“Some have asked for premium rebates, for example, but we need to explain to them how insurance works and that even if a plant is shut down it still requires protection. There has also been talk of premium relief, particularly in South Africa.”

Body of insurers agrees to pay On the contrary, the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), the umbrella body of insurers in Nigeria in April, had taken a position, saying that its member-companies would honour claims arising from COVID-19, “even as it confirmed full reinsurance backing.”

“The cover provides for life benefit, so any incident by this cause will be honoured,” Tope Smart, chairman of the NIA said.

For Moruf Apampa, Executive Director, Operations, FBN Insurance, “This is a situation like no other one ever, no statistics, so I do not see any reinsurance company rejecting claims from COVID-19.”

Although, the CEO of Nairobi-headquartered Zep Re, Hope Murera said, “Sadly, we had already received their first COVID-19-related life claim to handle.”

Suing reinsurers However, hospitality firms took South Africa’s largest general insurer Santam to court to contest its endeavours to avoid paying out for COVID-19 losses. But “Santam argued that the pandemic itself and government’s lockdown response are two separate events.”

Despite the belief that insurers were positioned to survive shocks because they have been intensely capitalised given the work of the ratings agencies, there were speculations that well-organised markets would face challenges occasioned by the volume of their books.

According to Beat Strebel, Swiss Re’s head of Middle East and Africa, “The costs of global pandemics such as COVID-19 exceed the capacity of the global insurance industry, making them effectively “uninsurable risks”.

The statement continued, “Compensating businesses for the disruption they have suffered is a job for governments, with whom Swiss Re wants to engage to create public-private

partnerships. We can’t do it alone.”

An instance was given that Africa, for example, with exemption of South Africa, “event cancellation is not commonly sold and nor is business interruption, unless it has a physical damage requirement, which means few COVID-19 events will be covered.”

Claims widely disputed Checks revealed that COVID-19 insurance claims were widely denied by insurers in South Africa, “maintaining that pandemics are not insurable events. Similar to ongoing insurance coverage lawsuits in the U.S., South African insurers and insureds are disputing what constitutes “physical damage” to trigger payouts under business policies. (A Michigan judge recently ruled in favour of an insurer, noting that physical must be “something with material existence. . . that alters the physical integrity of the property.”)

While some reinsurers were finding it difficult, by June in South Africa, as according to Bloomberg, “Momentum Metropolitan Holdings Ltd.’s Guardrisk will submit payments to policyholders who claimed business interruption losses during South Africa’s five-week shutdown beginning in late March.

“The settlement amount will cover the first three months of the lockdown. Santam Ltd., the nation’s largest property & casualty insurer, and Hollard Insurance Co said they would offer one-time financial relief to small-and-medium-sized clients. Santam, alone, has committed to 1 billion rand ($60 million) in payments.”

For Lize Lambrechts, CEO of Santam, “We remain confident in our interpretation of our policy wording as it pertains to the CBI extension in our cover. However, we also realise that our clients need financial support urgently and that the ongoing court cases on the interpretation of the policy wording may be lengthy.”

Experts had admonished the reinsurance sector on the continent to take a critical review of their reinsurance programmes but especially their risk exposure in order to prepare for future COVID-19 related pandemic.

According to data, “Such analysis will likely also prove necessary for purposes of (1) renewal negotiations, many of which will take place while the virus infection rates continue to rise and countries around the globe continue to enact containment measures, and (2) responding to requests by regulators and rating agencies calling for reinsurers to quantify their risk exposure.”

On the part of Dr. Karekezi, he warned that it could take the insurance industry on the continent months before it would come to terms with the effect of the pandemic on its business. He said, “We were asked by our board to stress test the possible exposures from the pandemic and they were surprised by our optimism when we reported back earlier this year. However, the problem is that today we don’t know the extent of the damage or the extent of the recovery.”

Onwumere writes from Rivers State.

Salute to Rafiu Ibrahim at 54 Hammed Shittu

T

o the family of the Ojoku-born politician and Senator, who represented Kwara South at the 8th National Assembly, Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim, it is yet another celebration in the annals of the life of this politician as he clocks 54.

As part of the celebration of his 54th birthday, a special prayer was recently organized for him in Ilorin, in compliance with the safety protocols of the COVID-19 pandemic. Various muslim clerics that attended the event prayed for good health and long life for the celebrant. They also lauded his politics without bitterness stance, as they said many people, irrespective of political affiliations, had benefited from his true representation at all the political offices he has occupied.

Also, some of his political associates eulogied the leadership style of the celebrant. They described him as a great philanthropist that used his wealth and political appointments to add value to the people of his state and federal constituencies and senatorial district and beyond, while he was in office.

They also said that, many indigent people in his senatorial district and unemployed youths have benefited from his large heart, and they would forever remember him.

The humanitarian gesture of the celebrant has earned him a man of the people status.

Ibrahim, a political ally of the immediate past President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, was born in 1966 and attended Ojoku Grammar School in Oyun Local Government Council Area of Kwara State where he obtained his West Africa School Certificate in 1985 before proceeding to Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin where he graduated

Ibrahim in 1987.

As an industrious man that was set to create a niche for himself in the annals of academic excellence, Ibrahim got inducted as Associate, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) in 1995, got the fellowship (FCIB) of same Institute in 2009 and proceeded to the University of Ado-Ekiti in Ekiti State where he obtained Master in Business Administration.

He went further and attended the Lagos Business School where he got entrepreneurship skills. He climaxed his academic pursuit at the Lead City University, Ibadan, where he bagged a Doctorate degree in Business Administration in 2009.

Ibrahim went into politics in 2009 and contested in a bye-election for a seat in the Kwara State House of Assembly and won to represent Oke-Ogun State Constituency.

He later contested for the House of Representatives for Offa/Oyun/Ifelodun Federal Constituency in 2011 under the platform of Peoples Democratic Party and won the seat.

An articulate politician that is worth his salt, the banker turned politician later contested for the Kwara South Senatorial seat in the year 2015 general election under All Progressives Congress, APC, and won. Ibrahim later emerged as the Chairman, Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions. He was also a member of several committees in the 8th National Assembly.

He is passionate about human capital development and infrastructural development of the African continent. As a result, he has been a constant delegate to the Word Bank/IMF annual spring meetings from 2015 till date.

Also, being a reform champion, he was given the IMPACT Award by the Presidential Enabling Environment Council (PEBEC) in 2017 in recognition of his contributions to 20162017 Ease of Doing Business reforms upon his sponsoring of the two major bills that were assented to, which aided Nigeria’s ease of doing business on the world map.

Ibrahim has over 30 years’ experience in national and executive management across the private and public sectors, providing leadership on developmental finance, high-level government relations, strategy, risk management, and compliance in public and private sector banking and financial services oversight and governance.

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SATURDAY DECEMBER 12, 2020 •T H I S D AY

SATURDAY DECEMBER 12, 2020 • T H I S D AY

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 12, 2020

POLITY

Seplat Takes STEAM Education a STEP Higher Uche Anichukwu

No other investment yields as great a return as the investment in education. An educated workforce is the foundation of every community and the future of every economy. – Brad Henry, 26th Governor of the State of Oklahoma, USA

I

f there is any time the common saying, “Knowledge is power” (“scientia potentia est” in Latin), holds the greatest meaning to humanity, it is now. The global economy is commanded by economies that are knowledge-based as against their agrarian and commodity-based counterparts.

The top 10 economies by Gross Domestic Product (GDP), namely United States, China, Japan, Germany, India, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Brazil, and Canada, are knowledgebased. They alone command about 66 percent of the world’s economy.

With a GDP of $2.94 trillion, India overtook UK and France to become the fifth-largest economy in 2019. India’s GDP in 1980 was just $189.439 billion and ranked as 13th largest global economy. But through “Make in India”, a major national programme fashioned to facilitate investment, foster innovation, enhance skill development, protect intellectual property, and build world class manufacturing infrastructure, the country rose from an agrarian economy to build a strong manufacturing and services sector. India’s service sector is rated the fastest growing in the world, contributing over 60 percent to the economy and employing 28 percent of her workforce.

But the Miracle on the Han River, as South Korea’s transition from one of the world’s poorest nations to an industrialised and high-tech nation in a few generations is popularly referred to, should interest us more as Nigerians.

While Nigeria swims in abundant natural resources, South Korea, almost bereft of any, joined the club of trillion dollar economies in 2004.

Today the South Korean knowledge-based economy is the 12th largest in the world by GDP and 4th in Asia, just behind China, Japan, and India, in that order. Korea is one of the leading exporters of electronic products, machinery, motor vehicles, steel, ships, and textiles and clothing, etc.

According to Statistica, with a combined gross tonnage of about 11.5 million in 2019, South Korea is only second to China (with 11.8 million) as a leading shipbuilding nation.

Its Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) in Ulsan is the world’s leading shipbuilding company, wowing the world with ingenuity even in naval and special ship manufacturing.

Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering in Seoul, Samsung Heavy Industries in Geoje, and STX Offshore and Shipbuilding in Jinhae, all Korean, are other top shipbuilders.

The International Organisation of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers ranks Korea 7th in car manufacturing. Korea manufactures more cars than Russia, France, UK, and Brazil.

Although South Korea relies on iron ore imports (remember it is almost bereft of mineral resources, unlike Nigeria), she is the world’s 6th largest steel producer, rolling out 71.4 metric tons in 2019, according to World Steel Association.

The Incheon International Airport, South Korea’s largest airport, reflects her economy. It was ranked the world’s 4th busiest airport (3rd in Asia) in 2017 by cargo traffic and world’s 19th busiest airport (9th in Asia) by passenger traffic.

It served a whooping 70,857,908 passengers in 2019 alone and won Skytrax World Airport of the Year award in 2012 as well as World Best Transit Airport and World Best Airport Terminal in 2020.

I am passionate about Korea because of her peculiar story.

I have also used the Incheon airport, toured the Kia and Hyundai automobile manufacturing, the steel rolling mill, and I have been to the Hyundai shipyard, which stretches over four kilometers along the coast of Mipo Bay in Ulsan.

One cannot but weep for our dear nation each time one remembers that the Asian nation’s deliberate and rigorous education system, a highly inspired and educated population spurred her rapid economic development and high-tech boom.

Like China and Singapore, which have equally successfully linked education and economic prosperity, the Korean story shows that no nation can develop beyond the quality of her education. These countries have all invested heavily in vocational education and training connected with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM, now STEAM) education. They have championed ICT education and funded Research and Development (R&D) and leadership training. Let us not forget that Singapore was ignominiously expelled from the Malaysian federation by the Parliament of Malaysia by 126–0 votes in the morning of August 9, 1965. Today, Singapore is a cynosure of all eyes.

Again a look at the list of the twenty-seven richest men/ families in the world today shows that only Andrew Forrest Laurie (Australia), who is worth $14.4 billion, is into mining.

Chairman, SEPLAT, ABC Orjiako And apart from Beat Heister & Karl Albrecht, who spin their wealth through supermarkets, the rest of the ten richest men, from Jeff Bezos (US), whose Amazon is worth $204.6 billion to Li Ka-shing (Hong Kong) with diversified businesses worth $28.6 billion, are production, ICT, service, and value addition, etc. driven.

It naturally means that Nigeria’s hope rests on knowledge-driven economy where the key element of value, according to Adam Hayes, is the greater dependence on human capital and intellectual property for the source of the innovative ideas, information, and practices.

I have taken time to put these things in perspective for us to appreciate the Seplat Petroleum Development Company new educational programme, Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP), targeted at secondary school teachers.

According to a statement by the company’s General Manager, External Affairs and Communications, Dr. Chioma Nwachuku, a total of 100 teachers and 43 Chief Inspectors of Education (CIEs) drawn from Edo and Delta states are currently benefitting from the maiden edition of STEP. She explained that the programme was designed to promote teachers’ creative thinking, facilitate higher student

engagement, and offer a well-rounded education for recipients of the initiative.

The five-day residential workshop introductory phase kicked off a six-month programme specially designed for teachers to provide them training on teaching applications for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) as well as leadership and self-improvement.

“With the STEP programme, the company now has a full bouquet of programmes to address the entire education value chain. Our programmes now cover improving school infrastructure, enhancing academic performance of students, and building the skills and competencies of teachers,’’ Seplat stated.

According to company, it developed an online teachers’ resource centre, which provides the beneficiary teachers access to inclusive learning, highlighting best techniques and practices for implementing STEAM teaching methods and assist them to learn to use such methods in the classrooms.

It observed that the e-platform would provide and connect teachers to a collection of STEAM resources to enable them to understand, teach and demonstrate effectively to their students. The first set of teachers from the STEP initiative would graduate in the first quarter of 2021.

Importantly, the selection was through a competitive process. 389 teachers from secondary schools in Edo and Delta states sat for the qualifying test online in September this year to compete for the available 100 places.

Seplat’s approach to this initiative equally shows that it has its eyes on the bigger picture, ensuring that teachers in private schools equally benefit from a training that will contribute a lot to shaping Nigeria’s future. Of the 100 beneficiary teachers, 75 per cent is from public schools, while 25 per cent is from private schools.

While the STEP initiative is highly commendable, many are not surprised, given the underlying philosophy of the founders of the organisation, like its Chairman, Dr. A.B.C Orjiako and because it is coming from a corporate entity with a laudable track record in enhancing the quality of education many Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes.

For instance, Seplat recently concluded the Seplat PEARLs Quiz, where 574 schools drawn from Edo and Delta States participated. The competition, according to the company, “aims to promote and reward academic excellence amongst secondary school students”. With a corporate philosophy, which sees the host communities as key stakeholders/co-owners of its business, Seplat has additionally excelled in providing other supports such health services, scholarships, and social infrastructure to the communities.

By the STEP initiative, Seplat has demonstrated again that it thinks not only about making profit, but also about helping to shape the nation’s future by building the intellectual capital that will launch her unto the realms of real prosperity. This step is not only laudable, but also worthy of emulation by other corporate organisations in order to move Nigeria forward.

Uche Anichukwu writes from Abuja

Rensource, Premium Poultry Team up for Solar Energy Tosin Clegg

R

ensource, a leading renewable energy services provider in partnership with the Norwegian impact investment company, Empower New Energy, is set to deploy a 700 KWp solar photo-voltaic plant to Nigeria´s largest egg producer, Premium Poultry Farms, Abuja.

The power plant, ground-mounted on Premium Poultry’s farm, will generate ca. 1 gigawatt hour of clean energy annually, save up to 25 000 tons of CO2 in its lifetime and contribute to Abuja´s fight against local air pollution.

This landmark project is one of the largest power purchase agreements for solar energy in Nigeria and will represent the poultry industry’s largest single clean energy project. The power plant is expected to operate for at least 25 years, according to the power purchase agreement signed by the off-taker, Premium Poultry and Empower.

“This solution for Premium Poultry Farms, Nigeria’s largest egg producer, demonstrates our ability to meet the energy needs of a diverse array of

Ademola Adesina industrial customers. We are honored to supply affordable clean energy to further grow Nigeria’s critically important agricultural sector, while cutting emissions” said Ademola Adesina, founder and CEO of Rensource.

Premium Poultry Farms produces 600 000 eggs daily and has its own feed mill, making it the country’s largest egg producer.

This project, which is due to commence in December 2020, will have an important footprint in terms of sustainability. It will save up to 840 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year andcreate 40

jobs during its construction and operations phase.

“We take immense pride in being good stewards of the environment and are pleased to further enhance our efforts with this solution. “Sustainability is at the heart of the farm’s philosophy”, says Alhaji Mahey Rasheed, Chairman of Premium Poultry Farms.

Rasheed added: “This project also allows us to benefit from the substantially lower energy costs offered by the solar PV technology and we are excited to become the largest solar-powered poultry farm in the country”.

Terje Osmundsen, Founder and CEO of Empower New Energy, said: “Empower is very pleased to collaborate with Rensource Energy in order to finance this project with Premium Poultry Farms, which reflects the success, dynamism and growth of Nigeria’s renewable energy sector. Our investment fund is poised to accelerate Africa’s transition to clean energy and this is evident in how quickly we have able to mobilise financing forthis crucial project.”

25

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ECEMBER 12, 2020

POLITY

Previewing a Story of Disaffection and Admiration Lasisi Olagunju

ou just got the job of the Chief Executive Officer of a government establishment with a bad reputation and had your head pounding with questions.

You were very clear on why you were chosen for that job. It was a rescue mission. But you also knew that a big issue waiting for you there was how you would get the job done successfully.

You assumed duty and looked around. Hours later, you were on your way out of the headquarters on that your very first day at work and saw this gentleman by the road side.

He was obviously stranded. The identity card hung on his chest region was that of your new place of work. You pulled your car over to the kerb-side and gave him a lift. He appeared not to recognize you as the new boss and so you launched into a conversation with him.

From this well-dressed man, you learnt that while official resumption time was 7.30am, majority of the people you would be working with reported for work daily at 9am. Even then, you were told, the big boys and girls there chose when to come to work. You asked your passenger how he felt working in the establishment, and he shocked you with his point-blank answer that if he had his way, he would gladly leave the place; it was a toxic setting. He said there were no teams there, he worked alone and delivered on assignments alone. He told you the agency had no core value except deadly high-wired politics. He demanded to know if you had not been reading the very bad media reports about the agency. The man painted a picture of an agency operating with a frustrated, disoriented workforce.

That early experience got you thinking. If you were going to rescue this agency, obviously you won’t do it alone. You needed a team. But this man had just told you that team work did not exist in that strange place. So, what do you do? You were not going to pull down the staff structure you met but you could mould it to work for you and get the job done. How would that be done?

You called a meet-and-greet meeting with the top shots there.

You started that meeting with a confession: Your background provided you with zero experience on that job. You were a student willing to learn. They listened and opened up. The meeting squeezed out more shocks confirming what your passenger told you that first day at work. Almost everyone at the meeting felt negative about where they worked. The picture you got was of an agency that had its reputation on life support. A top person at the meeting said he had stopped displaying his identity card in the area where he lived. Why? It was because some boys in the neighbourhood said he was one of those embezzling national resources. It was that bad. You realized you needed to lay your bed as you wanted it and set the stage to do things differently.

You needed to redefine priorities, reorientate perspectives and behaviours. You needed to develop a roadmap for the new journey. You must get the people to believe in the vision and give them new energy to chart a new path.

The agency you were asked to manage is the industry regulator in the maritime sector in Nigeria. It is called NIMASA - Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency. Its core services are in its name: safety administration and security of the maritime sector. The focus was to include effective maritime safety administration, maritime Labour, Marine environment stewardship, search and rescue, cabotage enforcement, shipping development and ship registration, training and certification of seafarers, and maritime capacity development. There were blisters of inefficiency and corruption on the face of each of these services before this new phase . Curing them and making them positive was the “why “of your presence there.

Every new job has its challenges. It was clear right from that beginning that this was going to be a bumpy ride. But there was no hint about the intense turbulence the journey was going to experience. You started seeing things that sank the ships of your predecessors. There were very tough times that tested your resolve. There were strong storms in resistance to forces of change.

You realized you must not fail. You held on to the rudder and forged on. You saw the sector as a ship at sea sailing against icebergs and other real dangers. You remembered the ship “Titanic “and what sank it in April 1912. With that knowledge of the past and its accidents, you set to work carefully navigating the ship with your eyes set on the harbour.

You remembered the saying of your people that if a load won’t agree to sit on the floor and again refuses to stay on the roof, there must be somewhere else it must be placed. Central to whatever you were going to do were the staff. If they were going to be the drivers of the process, then they must be convinced to work honestly and diligently. You remembered a particular ethnic group in your native Niger Delta who always won wars in history. What was the secret of their serial victories? They kept their warriors continuously motivated; their chief liberally incentivized them with consultations - and with gifts. You then used this ancient wisdom of the ancestors as your compass and, finally, you got every hand on the deck and set sailing. The result is a shout of Hallelujah at the harbour. The disaffection and frustration which marked the beginning gave way, at the end, to admiration for the ship and its captain.

Now you are reflecting on how the whole thing went. Reflection is good for leaders if they must reach their full potentials. You’ve always known that reformers are fishermen in crocodile-infested waters. They will suffer attacks unless they get their acts together early enough and conquer the terrain with deep understanding, superior wisdom and tact. You are now convinced that managing government agencies expose leaders to challenges from external factors, policy changes, changes in political leadership, poor leadership, or just some internal crisis that could lead to poor performance. Now that you have known and experienced these, you now reflected and took on the responsibility to warn yourselves and show others where the rains started to fall so that they too won’t be drenched.

The result of that reflection is this story I have just summarized. It is a snippet from Dr Daduku Peterside’s account of his stewardship in NIMASA as Director General/Chief Executive Officer spanning four years (March 2016 to March 2020). It is entitled: Strategic Turnaround: Story of a Government Agency. Published by Safari Books Ltd, Ibadan, the 285-page book comes in very simple, accessible language and the narrative style arresting. You should be convinced of the quality of the work when you read expert opinions in the book

by Chris Bellamy, Professor Emeritus of maritime security at the University of Greenwich, and Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Maritime Crime and Security, and Dr. Claire Pekcan, maritime organisational psychologist and human factors consultant, in the United Kingdom. You will see also, in the book, an endorsement by Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President, World Maritime University.

If you have anything to do with the maritime industry anywhere in the world and believe in reforms of government institutions this is a book you must have - and read. It is due to be released next month.

PHOTO NEWS

L-R: Celebrity/Judge, Cussons 7 Baby Moments Competition, Deyemi Okanlawon; Nollywood Celebrity/ Judge, Sisi Yemmie; Human Resource Director, Africa, PZ Cussons Plc.; Joyce Coker; Head of Marketing, Africa, PZ Cussons, Daniel Gyefour; and Celebrity/Judge, Uforma McDermott, at the Cussons 7 Baby Moments competition press conference held in Lagos...recently

L-R: Senior Pastor, Trinity House, Pastor Ituah Olajide Ighodalo; Chief of Staff to Pastor Ituah, Minister Olu Oyinloye Victor; and the CEO, TVC Continental, Mr. Andrew Hanlon, during a courtesy visit to TVC Continental by Pastor Ighodalo in Lagos...recently

L-R: Commercial Director, Guinness Nigeria, Adebayo Alli; Head Customer Marketing International Premium Spirits, Reserve and Modern Trade, Guinness Nigeria, Agu Ikechukwu; Winning distributor, Dr. Okafor Edmond Nnamdi; National International Premium Spirits Manager, Guinness Nigeria, Adeleye Adeniran; and Shopper Marketing Manager International Premium Spirits, Guinness Nigeria, Sanni Adeniyi, at the presentation of awards to winners of the Guinness’ Elite Promo held in Lagos…. recently

L-R: Global Convener, Women Entrepreneur and Professionals Development Network, Iyalode Alaba Lawson; Guest Speaker, Chief (Mrs.) Chinwe Ezenwa; member, Women Entrepreneur and Professionals Development Network, Dr. Oladele Abiodun; COO, Affi Israel Ibanga; and Chairperson, Welfare Committee, Mrs. Norah Hollins, at the Women Entrepreneur and Professionals Development Network First AGM, held at Radisson Blu GRA, Ikeja, Lagos...recently

26

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 12, 2020

POLITY

Kano’s Comatose Assets: Why PPP is the Panacea Salihu Tanko Yakasai

W

hen His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, OFR assumed the mantle of governorship of the most populous state in the federation on 29th May, 2015, he was confronted with formidable development challenges in the forms of multi-billion naira abandoned projects, huge liabilities of over N400 billion and eye-sores of many decades-old rotten infrastructures such as the old Daula Hotel, KASCO, the structurally defective multi-storey carpark at Shahuchi, the Triumph Publishing Company shut down by his immediate predecessor due to political mischief because it was established by the late Abubakar Muhammadu Rimi, the promising Tiga Rock Castle Hotel built in preparation for the visit of the Queen of England, the uncompleted Magwan Water Restaurant and Hotel and the famous Kano Zoo now in the midst of well-developed residential areas thus posing serious threat to the inhabitants.

Undaunted by these formidable challenges, some created purposely to frustrate Ganduje’s administration for political gain, the governor set out toward taking the state to the next level. For example, despite the financial crunch the three tiers of governments have been facing leading to the many months of recession in the country, the governor has succeeded in completing some multi-billion naira projects such as the two specialist hospitals at Giginyu and Zoo Road, the longest flyover bridge in the north named after Alhaji Aminu Dantata, and many other projects. The two independent power projects and some 5-kilometer roads abandoned by his immediate predecessor have now reached various levels of completion.

Unlike his immediate predecessor, Gov. Ganduje has continued with all inherited projects that have positive impact on the lives of the teeming people of the state.

In addition, the governor has initiated many money-guzzling projects such as the Madobi-Panshekara underpass, the Katsina Road underpass, and the vocational skills acquisition centre along Zaria Road named after Alhaji Aliko Dangote whose construction and equipping gulped over N5 billion, etc all now completed. This is apart from the payment of monthly salary and other workers’ entitlements running into billions of naira.

But despite all these achievements, the ever-dwindling Kwankwasiyya elements loyal to the former governor of Kano State, Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso have never acknowledged these glaring giant strides of the present administration; instead they have continued with their campaigns of calumny and propaganda just to cast the present administration of His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, OFR in bad light or to hoodwink gullible unsuspecting members of the public for the sect’s selfish political ends.

Gov. Ganduje has not only succeeded in making true his promise to complete all inherited projects and initiate new ones in a bid to provide Kano State with befitting infrastructures for its sustainable development, but has vowed to put it on a viable economic pedestal in partnership with private investors as is the norm all over the world.

One of the laudable policies the present administration has come up with is the resuscitation of some landmark but

Ganduje comatose landed property listed above most of which had passed their usefulness in view of their dilapidated and obsolete conditions. However, in their characteristic disposition to brandish empty propaganda through lies and half-truths, the Kwankwasiyya elements have taken to the social, print and broadcast media making wild and unsubstantiated claims that the Ganduje administration has sold up some choice properties to cronies and family members. To say the least, this is not true.

What actually transpired is that the state government has entered into private public partnership (PPP) arrangements with some willing and interested private investors to either redevelop these rotten, under-performing and obsolete assets for the benefits of the two parties with Kano State government contributing land as its equity while the investors would sink their money and expertise into the development and management of the assets or completely demolish these properties and build new modern ones in their place. None of the assets has been sold contrary to the baseless allegations dished out by the prejudiced opposition elements who see no good in any government other than theirs.

In the case of Daula Hotel, for example, the facility is a shadow of its former self and has been out of operation for many years due to dilapidation and out-datedness. With new modern hotels springing up in the state capital, Daula Hotel is no longer attractive and competitive enough; thus unable to attract patronage. The hotel has just become a safe haven for reptiles of all sorts most especially snakes. That is why the state government has entered into a PPP arrangement with a reputable private developer and the old hotel has been demolished and a new modern one, a mall and residential houses will be built after experts have given their professional inputs as to the viability of the projects.

In respect of the premises of the Triumph Publishing Company, the story is the same. The company has been

relocated after its resuscitation by the Ganduje administration and a private investor will construct a modern secured structure housing shops for the bureau de change operators.

The facilities also contain many amenities apart from providing well-secured environment for foreign exchange transactions to bloom and flourish.

With regards to the Shahuchi multi-storey carpark initiated by the Kwankwaso administration, the building is structurally defective and after receiving expert advice, the structure was demolished to safeguard the lives and property of the citizenry and would be converted into a shopping complex with modern facilities under a private public partnership arrangement and the state government’s equity is the land while the investor will bear the cost of the project in addition to other responsibilities.

For over 20 years, the state-owned Kano State Agricultural Supply Company (KASCO) has been moribund and out of operation. But the present administration succeeded in resuscitating the highly potential company now operating in full capacity. A new modern fertilizer blending line has been added under a progressive management and the company is now profitable and is being patronized by the federal and some state governments. Nowadays, fertilizer and other farm inputs are readily affordable and available to farmers in and outside the state.

Or take the issue of the ambitious Kano Economic City at Dangwauro, Zaria Road initiated by the Shekarau administration but abandoned by the succeeding Kwankwaso administration when it came on board in 2011 despite its high economic potentials to the development of the state. Upon coming into power, the Ganduje administration entered into a PPP arrangement with a private investor and now Kano Economic City has been revived and the investors have completed many shops ready for commissioning before the end of this year.

The opposition has also wildly castigated the Ganduje administration for resorting to taking loans for developmental purposes. Unknown to them, even developed countries take loans for developmental purposes. For example, the United States of America (USA) with its GDP of $12 trillion is now indebted to the tune of $36 billion and one of the lenders is its arch-rival and adversary, China with its loan of about $3 trillion to the USA. If the opposition elements can become a book-worm, they will cease making unsubstantiated claims especially in respect of development issues.

It is laughable that while their principal has not seen it worthwhile and important to complete inherited projects during his 8-year reign but instead initiated white elephant ones which he subsequently bequeathed to his successors, his supporters have not seen anything wrong with this political kamikaze. So blinded are they with political prejudice that they always oppose development efforts by the predecessors of their principal in the vain hope that he will assume political relevance again in the state or country at large. The earlier they realize that their political eclipse has become permanent, the better for them as some of the former die-hard members of the Kwankwasiyya sect have realized by dumping him and pitching their political camp with Gov. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, OFR. Salihu Yakasai is the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor of Kano State.

That Air Peace’s New Markudi Route the Panacea Chidiebere Nwobodo

T

he Eagle is undoubtedly the king of the skies. One of the sterling and unparalleled qualities of this quintessential creature is its ability to ride the storms, soaring to great heights where other less endowed birds cannot contemplate. It is fearless, energetic, tenacious, and nurtures its young.

It is not a coincidence, therefore, that the leading ingenious airline in West Africa, Air Peace, has the image of an eagle as part of its logo. As other airlines, Air Peace has been in the storm created by Covid-19 in the aviation industry, but like the eagle, Airp Peace is riding the storm.

There is no other better way to explain these milestones being achieved by the Airline when the aviation industry is being pummelled by economic crisis orchestrated by the coronavirus pandemic.

When other airlines are contracting in terms of number of routes and aircraft, Air Peace is expanding; a perfect analogue of when the going gets tough, the tough gets moving. And this can only be possible when right, purposeful and determined leadership is in place. This is what Allen Onyema-led management of the Airline represents.

On 7th December, 2020, an aircraft belonging to the king of the Nigerian skies landed on the soil of Benue State, the Food Basket of the nation. It was the inaugural flight of the Airline into Markudi, the capital of Benue State. This historic flight originated from domestic wing of Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos. It marked the beginning of commercial flights from the stable of Air Peace, connecting the

agriculturally savvy State, to both economic capital (Lagos) and political capital (Abuja) of the country.

Currently, no airline—except Air Peace, makes commercial flights to Markudi route. Coming when our road network has deteriorated, and insecurity on the road has exacerbated, one can imagine the sighs of relief for Benue residents, who have been provided much-needed alternative and safer means of transportation. The obviously elated Governor Samuel Ortom expectedly showered encomiums on Air Peace, for incorporating Markudi into its new destinations for commercial flights operations, promising to provide the enabling environment vis-a-vis support that would make this feat long-lasting and mutually beneficial.

When Nigeria is confronted with huge threat of food security, and increasingly calls for diversification in the face of fading crude oil usefulness in the global economy, a food reservoir like Benue State should be given a special attention. This is exactly what leadership of Air Peace ably led by Chief Allen Onyema is doing and should be well commended. Some people may view this milestone from the parochial prism of business alone, but I see here a sense of patriotism embedded in business quest—where business decisions are complimenting government’s efforts to birth developments and make life easier for the populace.

When airlines are struggling to stay afloat, it is a patriotically driven airline like Air Peace that will put economic growth of the nation side-by-side its business considerations. The

new route of Markudi by the Airline will assist in attracting investors to the state. In a commercially-food-producing state like Benue, that is neither linked to Abuja and Lagos by good road network nor standardized railway, a viable domestic flight route to the state, becomes a necessity not a luxury.

One of the enablers of commercial agriculture is efficient and reliable transportation system.

When the interstate roads and rail lines are in deplorable state—where it is in existence at all, air transportation via cargoes, provides the needed stimuli for transfer of farm produce in commercial quantities to the cities. But before cargo air operations, passengers—which represent investors and traders of agricultural products, should be given unhinged access to the state capital via air transport.

Beyond insecurity and bad road network, not every investor or trader have the luxury of time to spend hours on the road before getting to its business destinations. Connecting Markudi to Nigeria’s economic hub—Lagos and political melting pot—Abuja via commercial flights, will definitely improve the economic well being of Benue State. Its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) will feel the positive impact of this new route started by Air Peace. Beyond agriculturally related transactions, other businesses in the state will benefit from this new route. r /XPCPEP XSJUFT GSPN "CVKB

3

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

12.12.2020

NEWS

A DERBY LIKE NEVER BEFORE PAGE. 29

Faustino Anjorin Thrilled by Champions League Debut

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 12, 2020

28

GLOBAL SOCCER

Faustino Anjorin Thrilled by Champions League Debut Though he had previously starred for Chelsea in the League Cup and Premier League, his debut in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night will remain indelible in his memory. Little wonder he took to the social media to express his joy after the game

Faustino Anjorin got the better of a Krasnodar player in his Champions League debut for Chelsea on Tuesday

F

austino Anjorin made his European debut in the Champions League against Krasnodar on Tuesday night and he quickly took to social media to express his happiness at making his full debut for Chelsea in the Champions League.

The England youth international impressed during the 80 minutes he was on the Stamford Bridge turf and earned praise from manager Frank Lampard after the game.

It was his third appearance for Chelsea’s first team, having made substitute appearances against Grimsby Town and Everton in the League Cup and Premier League respectively.

Anjorin posted on Instagram: “What a special night for me and my family to make my champions league debut!

Thanks to the fans for all the support.”

A midfield powerhouse - the 19-year-old box-to-box player grew

up idolising current Blues manager, Frank Lampard.

The attacking midfielder is so highlyrated in West London.

Lampard, who has made it his mission to promote the youngsters from the academy, has faith in the raw talent, as does his assistant, Jody Morris - and the pair have been impressed by Anjorin’s rapid rise since they arrived at the club.

The youngster also has a knack for finding the back of the net, scoring crucial goals last season in the UEFA Youth League, Premier League 2 and in the EFL Trophy.

He managed 11 goals in 27 games last season, before the Coronavirus halted youth football.

And his progress within the Blues academy has seen him compared to fellow graduate Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

Anjorin was born in Poole to a Nigerian father and a English mum.

Amazingly, he was named after the Colombian legend Faustino Asprilla

who famously became the first player to score a hat-trick against Barcelona in the Champions League when he was playing up front for Newcastle.

By the age of seven Anjorin was scouted by Chelsea and inv i t e d t o t r a i n i n t h e i r y o u t h s e t - u p b e f o re officially joining at the age of nine.

It was a dream come true for the b o y, w h o i d o l i s e d J o h n O b i M i k e l and Frank Lampard and wanted to play for the same club.

By the age of 16, Anjorin, who stands at an impressive 6ft 1 in, l i f t e d t h e FA Yo u t h C u p i n 2 0 1 8 .

Not only was he the youngest player in the Chelsea side that beat Arsenal 7-1 over two legs, his goal to end the rout was the icing on the cake.

I n t e r n a t i o n a l l y, A n j o r i n ’ s f o r m has been equally as impressive a s i t h a s f o r h i s c l u b , a n d t h e FA have high hopes for him.

He has played for England at e v e r y junior level up to the U-19’s, but without a full cap to his name there could be a tussle with Nigeria for his services in the future.

Both-footed, Anjorin signed a fiveyear contract with the Blues in the summer - reportedly turning down interest from other Premier League clubs.

Technically sound, despite his lanky frame, he is adept at running with the ball at pace and is strong in possession.

And he’s got decent vision, often able to pick out the perfect pass for a forward to run on to.

But it is his finishing that helps him stand out from the crowd.

In fact, Jody Morris once revealed he was the “best finisher at the club”.

His father, Sheriff told Goal.com his son stood out from an early age - playing against boys aged six when he was just three.

Sheriff said: “He was always the standout player, people knew him before he even knew how to spell his name.

“He is a goalscoring midfielder in the Frank Lampard mould. Lampard was one of his idols, but so were Lionel Messi and Zinedine Zidane.

“He has a high level of technical ability, great finishing quality and a great passing range.

“We felt that the Chelsea environment was perfect for Tino. It has really stretched him.

“The training has always been harder than the matches, he’s highly competitive and he just wants to get on the pitch and beat his opponent.”

And he has his chance to impress, this time at the highest level of club football.

Lampard praised Anjorin’s performance against FC Krasnodar and said he is a ‘work in progress’.

Anjorin came into the side due to Callum Hudson-Odoi picking up a hamstring injury.

But he showed his qualities on an evening where he took his opportunity.

And Chelsea boss recognised that and despite fitness issues, Anjorin will stay with the first-team due to the injuries in the squad.

“In training he had shown us last season a real ability to step straight into the level in terms of his ability on the ball. He showed on Tuesday in the way he receives the ball and how he moves with it very quickly, his physical attributes to protect the ball.

He’s had some fitness issues in terms of completing games at U-23 and youth team levels.

“That’s a work in progress with him but the more he trains with us the better he is. It’s a real good environment for him.

With the injuries we have in the short term he will spend more time with us.

He did very well tonight. It was a good debut and he grew into the game as it went along.”

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 12, 2020

GLOBAL SOCCER Premiership Table Tottenham Liverpool Chelsea Leicester West Ham Southampton Man Utd Man City Everton Wolves Crystal Palace Aston Villa Newcastle Leeds Arsenal Brighton Fulham Burnley West Brom Sheff Utd

United, City Divide Manchester in 183rd Derby Kevin de Bruyne sent Man Utd’s Phil Jones Sprawling when both sides met last season

Manchester United and Manchester City lock horns for the 183rd time today, with just one point and one place separating the neighbours in the Premier League table

B

oth Manchester clubs endured disappointing starts to their respective campaigns, but have begun to climb the table in recent weeks and would stay in touch with the leading pack with victory in this match.

If anybody had told Manchester United fans at the beginning of 2020-21 that they would go into their first derby of the season, more than a quarter of the way into the campaign, sitting above Man City in the table then they would have no doubt taken that position.

However, all has not been well for either of these teams so far this term and, while Man City do now seem to be finding their feet, Man United continue to struggle with inconsistency and vastly differing home and away form.

Defeat to RB Leipzig in midweek condemned them to Europa League football again after Christmas, despite getting themselves into a position where they only needed one point from their final two games to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League.

The 3-2 loss in Leipzig, which followed a 3-1 home defeat to Paris SaintGermain a week earlier, was only made to look a little more respectable by two late goals for the Red Devils as they threatened another comeback away from home.

That has been a feature of their Premier League campaign so far, remarkably coming from behind to win all five of their top-flight away games so far this season - something which has never been done before in the competition.

Indeed, the Red Devils have now won a club-record nine successive away league games and are unbeaten on the road since January, and with questions again being asked of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer following their Champions League exit it is not too much of a stretch to suggest that it is only their away form which is keeping him in the job at the moment.

United’s record at Old Trafford is an entirely different story, with only a league-low 21 per cent of their points four of 19 - coming on their own patch

so far this season.

Three of those four points did come in their last such match as they narrowly edged past West Bromwich Albion, but they have not won backto-back home league games since early July and will expect a much sterner test against Man City.

That said, Solskjaer has displayed an uncanny knack of pulling big results out of the bag when he needs them most, and he has won three of his five previous managerial meetings with Pep Guardiola too - the best win rate of any manager to have gone head to head with Guardiola four or more times.

Solskjaer could also justifiably point to the league table as evidence that Man United’s season is not going quite as badly as many have made out; victory today would temporarily lift them to within two points of leaders Tottenham Hotspur, having played the same number of games.

Such poor home form is an issue which would prevent a sustained title challenge unless fixed, though, and Man City will relish the chance to pour more misery on their neighbours in what has already been a difficult week on and off the pitch.

City have by no means enjoyed a faultless season themselves so far, though, and they make the short trip to Old Trafford sitting below their bitter rivals in the table.

Indeed, whereas Man United are six points better off than they were after 10 games of last season, Man City are four points worse off.

Guardiola’s men are beginning to find the sort of consistency we have become used to seeing from them in recent campaigns, though, and they head into this derby on a five-match unbeaten run during which time they have not conceded a single goal.

Only Spurs have beaten Man City in their last 15 games across all competitions, while their victory over Fulham last weekend secured back-toback Premier League wins for the very first time this season.

Guardiola’s men have now scored as many goals in their last two league outings as they had in their previous seven combined, while they could also

keep three consecutive top-flight clean sheets for the first time since May 2019.

There will still be concerns over Man City’s away form, though, having won just once on the road in the league since their opening game of the campaign.

Defeat to Tottenham in their last such outing was their fifth away league loss of 2020 - their most in a calendar year since 2015 - and that includes being beaten by Man United on their last visit in March.

The goals have not exactly been flowing freely either, scoring six and conceding five in their five away outings to date, although that is still significantly better than Man United’s home record.

Solskjaer’s side have netted just three times at Old Trafford so far in 2020-21 which, when coming up against a team with five clean sheets on the bounce, does not bode well in this battle for bragging rights.

The hosts could again be without injured duo of Anthony Martial and Edinson Cavani for this one after both missed out in midweek.

Martial’s absence will be keenly felt, having scored in three of his last four league appearances against Man City including both home and away last season. If he does start, the Frenchman could become the first United player to net in three consecutive league derbies since Eric Cantona.

Solskjaer must decide whether or not to start Paul Pogba, who has now scored in back-to-back games but also drew more negative attention to the club this week with his agent’s comments over his future.

Luke Shaw is now fit again but may have to settle for a place on the bench for the derby, with Solskjaer set to return to a four-at-the-back system.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is expected to start on the opposite flank as he renews his eye-catching head-to-head with Raheem Sterling, who is still searching for his first goal against Manchester United in what would be his 17th attempt.

Guardiola has confirmed that Sergio Aguero will not start this match despite a goalscoring return in midweek, meaning that Gabriel Jesus is

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14 9 14 6 5 4 2 6 2 -4 1 7 -3 -5 -4 -3 -10 -13 -15 -13

24 24 22 21 20 20 19 18 17 17 16 15 14 14 13 10 7 6 6 1

Hot Shot PLAYERS

CLUB

Calvert-Lewin Son Heung-Min Jamie Vardy Mohamed Salah Harry Kane Patrick Bamford Wilfried Zaha Callum Wilson Ollie Watkins Danny Ings

GOALS

Everton 11 Tottenham 10 Leicester 9 Liverpool 9 Tottenham 8 Leeds 8 Crystal Palace 7 Newcastle 7 Aston Villa 6 Southampton 6

Head to Head 08/03/20 Man Utd 2 : 0 07/12/19 Man City 1 : 2 24/04/19 Man Utd 0 : 2 11/11/18 Man City 3 : 1 07/04/18 Man City 2 : 3 10/12/17 Man Utd 1 : 2 27/04/17 Man City 0 : 0 10/09/16 Man Utd 1 : 2 20/03/16 Man City 0 : 1 25/10/15 Man Utd 0 : 0 12/04/15 Man Utd 4 : 2 02/11/14 Man City 1 : 0 25/03/14 Man Utd 0 : 3 22/09/13 Man City 4 : 1

Man City Man Utd Man City Man Utd Man Utd Man City Man Utd Man City Man Utd Man City Man City Man Utd Man City Man Utd

PREMIER LEAGUE TODAY

Brighton Wolves Newcastle Man Utd Everton

v v v v v

Liverpool 12:30 Aston Villa 12:30 West Brom 15:00 Man City 17:30 Chelsea 20:00

SUNDAY

Southampton v Crystal Palace v Fulham v Arsenal v Leicester v

Sheffield Utd Tottenham Liverpool Burnley Brighton

12:00 14:15 16:30 19:15 19:15

v v v v

Bilbao Sevilla Alavés Atlético

13:00 15:15 17:30 20:00

v v v v

Eibar Villarreal Granada Levante

13:00 15:15 17:30 20:00

v

Cádiz

20:00

La Liga TODAY

Valencia Getafe Huesca Madrid SUNDAY

Sociedad Real Betis Elche Barcelona MONDAY

Celta Vigo

expected to lead the line again.

Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri, Ruben Dias, John Stones, Ederson and Benjamin Mendy are among the other players who will likely come back into the starting lineup for this match.

Eric Garcia and Ilkay Gundogan were both forced off in midweek, though, and they will need to be assessed ahead of kickoff this weekend.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 12, 2020

GLOBAL SOCCER

Midfield action during the first match of the WAFU U20 Zone B qualifier between Nigeria and Ivory Coast

Anthony Joshua and Kubrat Pulev exchanging bitter words during the weigh-in yesterday

Africa U20 Cup of Nations Qualification

Nigeria Counting on Ghana’s Triumph against Cote d’Ivoire to Progress With Nigeria hoping for Ghana to beat Cote d’Ivoire in the last group game for a chance to qualify for the next round, Black Satellites boss Abdul Karim Zito has stated that Cote d’Ivoire will fall the same way as Nigeria.

The Black Satellites boss looks ahead to their last group game at the youth championship in Benin Zito is looking to capitalise on Cote d’Ivoire’s desperation when the two sides meet at the ongoing Wafu B Cup of Nations in Benin today.

In a three-team group at the subregional tournament, Ghana have already booked a qualification ticket to the next round of the competition following a 1-0 win over arch-rivals Nigeria on Wednesday.

Cote d’Ivoire, on the hand, badly need to avoid defeat against the Black Satellites, in the least, to join the latter to the next round, having held Nigeria

to a 1-1 draw in their opening game.

“We were fortunate to have watched Nigeria play Cote D’Ivoire,” Zito said, as reported by the Ghana Football Association’s official website.

“We missed the first 30 minutes of the game but we were here in Benin when they played since we drew a bye.

“Yes, for now, I don’t have a problem thinking about qualification, they will have to fight to qualify so I think it will be a nice game. They will come at us just as Nigeria did.”

Against Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana will have to do without key man Precious Boah, who was sent off for a second bookable offence against Nigeria, moments after scoring the all-important goal of the game.

“Yes, Boah is my everything in the team, he showed that by scoring the only goal of the match,” Zito said.

“But he is out after the red card and

there is nothing, we can do so I have started planning for the next game without him.

“Maybe he will return if we make it to the final since its two yellow cards.”

“Possible squad change against Cote d’Ivoire] depends on a few factors, like fatigue, mental toughness and the opponent. So, I can’t say much for now.

“I have to go back and asses the players before I plan for the next match.

“But definitely there will be a few changes to the team but its too early to know who will play against Cote D’Ivoire.”

The two tournament finalists will secure qualification for the 2021Africa U20 Cup of Nations in Mauritania.

The four semi-finalists at the African gathering will, in turn, be rewarded with tickets to represent the continent at the World Cup in Indonesia.

SWAN President Sirawoo, NEC Members Visits NFF President, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Honour Sirawoo, yesterday led the National ExecutiveCommittee(NEC) of the Association and Chairmen representing the six geopolitical zones to a closed-door meeting with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) at the Glass House, Abuja.

Sirawoo and the expandedNECmemberswere received by the Secretary General of the NFF, Dr. Sanusi Mohammed at the NFF Secretariat.

Speaking to newsmen in an interview after the closed -door meeting, the SWAN President hinted that the closed door meeting had series of issues of collaboration discussed with the NFF SG and also commended the NFF for reaching out to the association with the FIFA palliative.

He also disclosed that the expanded NEC members were in Abuja for their meeting and thought it wise to visit the Glass House to first and foremost thank the leadership of the NFF for

the FIFA pallaitive extended to the association, and to assure that it will be judiciously and transparently utilised in accordance to FIFA guidelines and the association’s statutes.

“We are here basically to thank NFF for the FIFA palliative extended to the association and to further assures that the association values the relationship that exists with the NFF and will sustain it going forward. While thanking the NFF, I wish to urge that the NFF continue to deal with the institution whose members are professionals and guided

by rules of engagement.

“While the closed door lasted, we also discussed collaborative issues and assured the NFF that as professionals, we will continue to do our jobs professionally and always ready to assist the Federationinanywaypossibleto give her the required publicity”.

The NFF General Secretary commended the SWAN leadership for the visit and for appreciating the magnanimity of the FIFApalliative through NFF. Sanusi called on Sirawoo to work towards variables that would entrench unity and strengthen the association.

NANTA Strengthens Southern Flanks, Builds Partnership on Golf Tourism President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Mrs. Susan Akporiaye, redefined the Nigerian domestic tourism ecology, with aggressive presence at the just concluded Obong of Calabar International Charity Golf Classic, which took place in Calabar, Cross River State recently.

Globally, Golf has been adjudged as the game for

top industry players and chief executives of top corporate organisations, raking in billions of dollars.

The Obong of Calabar Golf Classic was powered

by Group Captain Edem Oyo-Ita,(Rtd) Director, Air Transport Regulations, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), as golf tourism platform lubricated as annual sports events for aviation

professionals and to which NANTA is at the forefront of the marketing mix.

Akporiaye, disclosed that NANTA would mobilise its strong membership, particularly in the South-south and South-east to market the Obong of Calabar golf classic as the biggest tournament on that flank, since golf tourism was the biggest paying sports showbiz in the world today,

and creating a new stream of verifiableincome for NANTA members.

With a well appointed promotional pavilion at the sidelines of the Obong of Calabar International Golf Classic, NANTA showcased its history, membership, focal agenda, the team spirit, local and International presence and marketing connections.

Boxing, Madrid Derby Live on StarTimes this Weekend

Following a sensational KO win against Felix Caraballo in June, Shakur Stevenson will return to boxing action against Toka Kahn Clary at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas tomorrow.

The unbeaten featherweight will appear in a 10-round main-event fight and will air live on StarTimes’

Sports Arena Channel at 4 am Sunday morning.

Being two of the prime featherweights- Stevenson and Kahn Clary’s fight will determine the possible future of the division.

On the football scene, the headline match this weekend in La Liga is the Madrid derby.

The match will kick-off at 9

pm today. All La Liga matches air live on StarTimes in French commentary.

Going into today’s match in theAlfredoDiStéfanoStadium, where Real are currently playing their home games instead of the Santiago Bernabéu, Diego Simeone’s Atlético are currently topping the table.

Together, the trio have scored

11 of the 21 goals the club has scored in the league this season, with Félix and Suarez both having scored five.

But even if Atlético Madrid are clearly the in-form in Spain at the moment, history is on the side of their rivals. Of the 158 games played, Real Madrid have won 85, while Atlético have won 39 matches.

Pulev Stands Between Joshua, Fury’s Unification Bout Anthony Joshua knows he could be just one win away from a fight for the ages - one the public would devour.

He has been here before. In June 2019 he said he was “looking at the big picture” as he discussed bouts with Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury. Within 72 hours he was floored four times by Andy Ruiz Jr, the no-hope opponent who derailed his plans.

It was a “blip”, Joshua said at the time. Tonight against Kubrat Pulev he knows there can be no such slip-ups if hopes of two showdowns with Fury are to last into 2021.

“If he loses on Saturday, (today) two fights and probably about £200m goes out of the window - that’s the kind of pressure that the big guys at the top have to overcome,” said boxing analyst Steve Bunce.

Around 1,000 fans - paying between £100 and £1,000 - will attend as Joshua risks his three world heavyweight belts in his first UK appearance in over two years. Fury - holder of the only other significant world title - turned down a ringside ticket of his own.

“I did expect him to come actually,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “I’m sure he will be watching.”

Hearn admits he is nervous. Terms for fights with Fury are said to be loosely agreed but first his man must fight in front of a crowd a mere fraction of the size he has grown used to, after spending a week in a Covid-secure bubble and after 12 months without a fight.

Boxing during the pandemic has proved profitable for underdogs. Vasyl Lomachenko, Dillian Whyte and Daniel Dubois are just some of the bookies’ favourites counting the cost of huge losses in recent times.

“It will show who was disciplined during lockdown,” Joshua - a 1-10 favourite - told 5 Live Boxing. “Who worked on their craft? Who improved?

“The best way I can get rid of the ring rust is to not be scared, to not have nerves, and to go in there confident in my ability.

“The pressure I went through last year was tough but made me stronger mentally. I grew a thicker skin. I want to be successful in boxing and the only way to be successful is to take on good challengers. This is just another one.”

It remains to be seen exactly how Joshua plans to approach the fight. Will he stick with the ‘hit and move’ strategy that undid Ruiz in their December rematch? Or can he blend that approach with the knockout-chasing urgency of old and ultimately prove that his loss to Ruiz was the catalyst for improvement?

But whatever strategy he pursues, some pundits warn that the champion is vulnerable - Pulev, who won major medals as an amateur, goes into the bout fuelled by patriotism and the desire to fulfil his late father Venko’s dream of having a son win the sport’s biggest prize.

Already a hero in Bulgaria, Pulev can become his country’s first world heavyweight champion - just as Ruiz became Mexico’s. And at 39, he also knows it is now or never.

Peter Fury - who as trainer guided his nephew Tyson Fury to world-title success in 2015 and watched Pulev beat his son Hughie Fury three years later - thinks the challenger is a threat.

“You look at Pulev, a seasoned fighter all of his life, a hungry man,” he told 5 Live Boxing. “He says he’s doing it for his father and that’s a big statement. I know how I feel for my father. He’s putting it all on the line, make no mistake. He has vast experience.

“He has a very good jab, good distance judgment. Unless Joshua can break that style down, it could be an awkward night.” An awkward night is one thing, a disastrous one is quite another.

Few sports delay their biggest fixtures quite like boxing does but in homes, pubs, offices or - more commonly in this pandemic year - online chat rooms, the Fury versus Joshua debate has gone on long enough.

The fight of a generation could feel much closer on Sunday morning if there is no second blip tonight.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 12, 2020

31

GLOBAL SOCCER

Kion Etete Will He Ever Get There?

Folarin Balogun beat a Molde defender to score Arsenal third goal in the Europa League on Thursday

Since joining Tottenham two years ago British-born Nigerian forward, Kion Etete has continued to impress in Premier League 2. However, playing alongside the ‘big boys’has been his ultimate aim

I

n what could be akin to Spurs’ success with the like of Dele Alli, the North London club welcomed Kion Etete for a period of trial and the lad is now making the best of the opportunity, as Etete impressed Tottenham technocrats, who had good marks for him after a week’s trial with the English Premier League club.

All fingers now point in the direction of a repeat of the Alli saga for Etete.

Nigerian-eligible striker Kion Etete scored for the third consecutive Premier League 2 game as Tottenham Hotspur defeated Blackburn Rovers 3-2 on Monday night.

Etete opened his account for the season against Manchester United before making it two goals in two games with his strike against Leicester City at the end of last month.

The former Notts County wonderkid gave Tottenham the lead at Lancashire FA HQ when he tapped home at the back post in the third minute.

Tottenham made a move for Notts County’s pacy teenage forward after a week’s trial with the Premier League club.

Etete signed a professional contract with Notts County on his birthday in November.

That came just weeks after being handed his first team debut, by then manager Harry Kewell, as a 16-year-old in the Checkatrade Trophy against Newcastle in October.

He was linked with city rivals Not-

tingham Forest and went on to make six first team appearances for the League Two strugglers.

“Being around the first team has been a great experience for me and now I’m just going to be doing all I can to show the new manager what I can do,” Etete told the club’s website.

“Under-23s matches will give me the chance to prove myself against older players from a higher level and I can still play for the Under-18s, which will keep me up to speed.”

The lack of a second striker has cost Tottenham valuable points over the past few years. This past season saw Kane out injured for 67 days, missing 14 games, after rupturing his hamstring tendon in a 1-0 loss at Southampton on January 1.

Rewind to last season and the same player suffered two major injuries, accumulating 91 days and 17 games out.

Daniel Levy has tried to bring in an understudy on more than one occasion with Vincent Janssen and Fernando Llorente both failing to contribute significantly.

The likes of Heung min Son, Lucas Moura, Steven Bergwijn, and Dele Alli have all also been used in the central role as makeshift front men.

Troy Parrott has been touted by many as the next ‘Harry Kane’, but supporters should perhaps keep an eye on a former football league striker in the youth squad instead.

Etete came through the ranks at Notts County before making his senior debut in the EFL Trophy in 2018. The 19-year-old went on to feature four times for the first team.

This caught the eye of the hierarchy at Tottenham Hotspur and he underwent a successful trial at the North London club before joining in June 2019.

Etete has featured 21 times for Spurs youth teams – under-18s and under-21s – scoring nine times in all competitions. This season has seen him feature in the Premier League 2, Under-18 Premier League, UEFA Youth League, FA Youth Cup, and also EFL Trophy However, it has been in the under-18 domestic league where he has shown the most promise after scoring eight times in 13 appearances.

According to Talents Hunter, Etete could be the ideal striker for Jose Mourinho.

Regarded as ‘tall’ and ‘physical’, Etete has the ability to shield the ball and involve other players around him. Standing at 6ft 3in, he knows how to score with his head, but also has a venomous right-foot on him, making him lethal inside the box in any scenario.

Not only does his attacking presence cause defenders problems but also his willingness to close down the ball and force the opposition into errors.

Mourinho loves a target man and Etete could be the perfect striker to fill this void.

However, like any youngster trying to make an impression, experience is key and only making four appearances at a senior level might not be enough to force Mourinho’s hand.

At the moment, Parrott is rated highly due to goalscoring presence in the youth teams but don’t rule out Etete being a leading Premier League striker in the future, potentially at Spurs.

It will be no surprise if Spurs are on the hunt, once again, for a back-up striker to Kane. However, Daniel Levy himself could save himself millions by looking to the youth squad with two promising strikers on the rise.

Etete came through the youth team at Notts County and made his senior debut for the “Magpies” in a group stage match of the EFL Trophy against Newcastle United U2. He made his EFL League Two debut in a 2–2 draw with Port Vale and after the game he said “I was nervous because it was a big occasion and I just wanted to keep my head on the game”.

His manager said afterwards, “Kion was excellent”.

Derbyshire-born Etete has stated that it would be an honour to represent Nigeria if his Nigerian dad and English mom give him the green light.

G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR

THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR

THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN

MANAGING DIRECTOR

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 05, 2020

DECEMBER ͮͳ˜ ͰͮͰͮ ˾ THISDAY,THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹ͺ˜ 2020

AUTO WORLD

Bennett Oghifo 07052343083 Email:bennett.oghifo@thisdaylive.com

TIPS OF THE WEEK

Routine Maintenance for Radiator

Interior of 2020 Ford EcoSport

NAJA’s Capacity Building Workshop Holds Today

T

his year’s edition of the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) Training/Capacity Building programme holds today Saturday, December 12, 2020 at the Golden Tulip Hotel Essential, located on airport road, Lagos.

The NAJA training workshop is an annual training programme, organised for practicing auto journalists on trends in the automotive industry. Members of the association belong to reputable print, electronic and online media outfits across the country.

Despite this year’s coronavirus pandemic, which affected businesses, this 2020 NAJA event is being supported by Coscharis Motors Plc., Stallion Automobile group,

Massilia Motors Limited and Cars45 Limited, among others.

Two papers will be presented; ‘’The Role of Nigeria’s Automotive Journalists Amid COVID-19 Era’ to be delivered by Dr. Oscah Odiboh; a lecturer at Convenant University Otta, Ogun State.

The second paper, which is line with the digital migration in present day journalism, is titled; ‘Utilising Social Media Tools in News Reportage By Journalists’’, to be presented by Yusuf Aweda Jimoh, a microsoft Certified Technology Specialist, Network and Software Engineer Expected at the event to give key note addresses are Dr. Aliyu Jelani, DirectorGeneral, National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi, Corps Marshal, Federal

Roads Safety Corps (FRSC).

According to the Chairman of NAJA, Mike Ochonma, the one-day training programme is expected to enrich and expand the knowledge of journalists. ‘’Journalism is taking a new dimension in the face of digital migration, making it imperative for reporters to have analytical mind and be well-informed in the beats that they cover.”

The first and second editions of the capacity building workshop was held in 2016 and 2017 and Ford Motors South Africa (FMCSA), in collaboration with Coscharis Motors; its local franchisee were the lead sponsors.

Nissan Motors South Africa was the lead sponsor of the 2018 edition. They are represented by Stallion Motors in Nigeria.

Transport Owners Want Land Borders Reopened The Public Transport Owners of Nigeria Association (PTONA) has appealed to the federal government to reopen the land borders it closed about 15 months ago.

The association also urged the government to disburse the N10 billion it approved five months ago to help cushion the dire effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on road transportation.

Their plea is contained in a communiqué they issued after a two-day Annual General Meeting held recently at the Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Ikeja, Lagos. The theme was Road Transportation and the Future of Nigeria Economy.

They also described as unfair the implementation of the COVID-19 protocol of 50 per cent seating capacity which is biased against their branded inter-state buses on various routes nationwide.

The 2nd AGM had the representatives of the governor of Lagos state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Minister of State for Transportation, Senator Gbemi Saraki; Minister of State of Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, and many other personalities, as guests of honour Signed by the National President, Engr. Isaac Uhunmwagho, and the Secretary, Frank Nneji, PTONA appealed to the Inspector General of Police and the Chief of Army Staff to immediately remove all the numerous Police/Army checkpoints on the highways.

Such roadblocks, the statement said, have tripled journey time on various routes, thereby making road transportation a nightmare.

The public transport owners stated that with experts in transportation as resource persons, over 120 members participating in the summit, and about 10 bus makers exhibiting their vehicles,

L-R: Financial Secretary, Public Transport Owners of Nigeria Association (PTONA), Chief Nonso Ubajaka; representative of Minister of State for Transportation, Ojo Idialoise; and President, PTONA, Engr. Isaac Uhunmwagho, at the presentation of a plaque to the minister during the association’s 2nd AGM held at the Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Lagos… recently the forum provided a veritable platform for deliberating on the burning issues confronting the sector and making recommendations.

The resolutions were distilled from the papers presented by the guest speakers, Dr John C.Isemede and Alban Igwe, and the interactive session that ensued thereafter. The communiqué included a call on government to: “Reverse the closure of the nation’s land borders

because the situation is adversely affecting our members’ businesses and cannot be sustained as a policy measure by the Federal Government. The association calls on the Federal Government to deploy technology in checking the illegal activities of smugglers on the nations land borders.

“Stop the unfair policy in implementing the 50 percent seating capacity on our members’ inter-state buses nationwide”.

Your car’s radiator and cooling system need to be clean to work efficiently and effectively. With normal wear and tear, your car’s radiator builds up deposits that can disrupt the cooling system. A radiator flush is a quick and inexpensive way to keep your system in shape.

You should have your car’s coolant system and radiator inspected at least every 12 months. It’s a good idea to inspect the system every 12,000 miles,/ 19312.128 kilometres, especially if you travel a great deal. Antifreeze (coolant) helps to protect your engine from overheating or freezing. However, over time the liquid can degrade. The fluid is also caustic. If it is left in the radiator for too long a time, it will eventually corrode the metal and cause radiator leads. You should always keep your engine clean by removing scale and rust and preventing corrosion.

Unlike your car’s oil, most of the coolant is not removed during traditional draining and filling services. In fact, these services generally replace approximately 50 percent of the car’s used coolant. The remainder of this fluid remains trapped in the engine and throughout various hoses and lines.

Adding fresh coolant to used coolant can cause issues when scale and rust deposits become loose and clog coolant passages. This usually leads to your car overheating.

The cooling system in your car is what prevents your car from experiencing a total meltdown. If no coolant system was in place, your engine would eventually turn into a block of useless metal. It wouldn’t take very long for this to happen. Every part of your coolant system has one goal: to move coolant around in the car’s engine in order to absorb and dissipate heat.

Possible Problems with the Coolant System and Radiator Coolants do degrade. Scale deposits and rust can build up in your cooling system. This can lead to: Vehicle Breakdown Overheating Poor Circulation Some of the signs that your car is overheating is: Your car’s temperature gauge rises Steam billows from under your car’s hood Hissing and pinging sounds are coming from your car You can smell boiling antifreeze If any of these problems occur, you should stop driving right away. Don’t start the car again until the car cools down. Additionally, you should not open the radiator or pressure cap. This could lead to serious burns.

If your car doesn’t receive proper maintenance services, you could experience issues with your coolant system.

In many cases, routine maintenance allows you to catch small issues before these issues become huge repair bills. If you don’t perform routine maintenance, you could miss your chance to intervene with a coolant system issue before damage to your engine occurs.

Your car’s coolant enables your car to perform properly. Coolant can also play a vital role in the longevity of your vehicle. This is the primary way that your engine can eliminate excessive heat. If this heat isn’t properly removed, it can lead to diminished performance.

Mechanical breakdown could possibly occur. If your car is overheating due to a cooling system that isn’t working properly, this could lead to performance problems and transmission or engine failures.

(Source: YHS)

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹ͺ˜ 2020

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AUTO WORLD

Jaguar Refines F-PACE SVR with Enhanced Design, Performance

T

he new Jaguar F-PACE SVR is now faster, more dynamic and more refined than ever. The pinnacle of the performance SUV range is elevated to another level thanks to the latest enhancements by the Jaguar SV team.

The updates are delivered by a combination of newhardwareandthemovetoJaguar’sadvanced Electronic Vehicle Architecture – dubbed EVA 2.0 – and include motorsport-inspired design details, a luxurious and performance-focused interior and the latest connected convenience technologies.

The new F-PACE SVR is available exclusively with Jaguar’s 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged petrol engine, which produces 405kW and 700Nm torque – an increase of 20Nm. This uplift in torque delivers enhanced performance, with the F-PACE SVR capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in 4.0 seconds, three-tenths faster than before, and a top speed of 286km/h.

The powertrain now features the same torque converter used in the Jaguar XE SV Project 8 super sedan , to withstand the higher loads produced. As well as the improved torque and acceleration, CO2 emissions are reduced from 281g/km to 275g/km with fuel economy now down to 12.2l/100km*.

The transmission and dynamics systems have also benefitted from incremental tweaks. The uprated Dynamic mode features unique tuning, delivering a focused and honed driving experience. A new Dynamic Launch feature also uses driveline inertia to maintain power to the wheels

during gear changes, contributing to the SVR’s sharper acceleration from a standstill.At the same time, F-PACE SVR is now more comfortable and enjoyable to drive at a relaxed pace, without compromising its high-speed dynamics, further underlining the new model’s duality of purpose.

The steering system is enhanced with a new electronic power-assistance system delivering greater immediacy, providing a heightened connection between the vehicle and driver. Modified tuning of the adaptive damping provides a more refined ride at low speeds, which is further improved by revised chassis bushes.

Drivers also benefit from improved brake feel in the new F-PACE SVR. The 395mm (front) and 396mm (rear) two-piece disc brakes are now supported by a new Integrated Power Booster which, along with a recalibration of the system, delivers a sportier and shorter brake pedal.

This tuning is specific to the SVR performance flagship, while the brake system uses a new electric booster system. The improved cooling and aerodynamics of the vehicle also improve the performance of the brakes, giving the driver even greater confidence.

The 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged petrol engine is paired with Jaguar’s ultra-responsive, smoothshifting eight-speed automatic transmission which delivers rapid gearshifts for effortless performance, while adapting the way power is delivered to suit the driving situations.

Jaguar’s All-Wheel Drive with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics is fitted as standard. Adaptive Dynamics suspension technology ensures a precise, dynamic set-up coupled with a supple

The new Jaguar F-PACE SVR

ride, while Configurable Dynamics provides enhanced driver appeal by enabling the driver to set up the vehicle to suit their personal preferences. A stopwatch, G-Meter and pedal graph also help the driver to monitor performance in Dynamic mode.

The design of the new F-PACE SVR is inspired

by SV’s motorsport experience, with enhanced

airflow and aerodynamic benefits delivered through new apertures and vents for improved powertrain and brake cooling. The changes deliver superior aerodynamic performance including 35 per cent reduction in aerodynamic lift, while drag is cut from 0.37Cd to 0.36Cd. As well as the performance enhancements, these elements also provide a more purposeful aesthetic.

Toyota’s Electric Technology Powers Heavy Duty Trucks

T

oyota’s next generation fuel cell electric technology is now powering a new set of Class 8 heavy-duty trucks. Using the same fuel cell system as the all-new 2021 Mirai sedan that goes on sale this month, the engineers at Toyota Motor North America Research and Development have developed a set of production-intent prototype trucks that are being prepared to run drayage routes at the ports of L.A. and Long Beach to validate their performance, efficiency and drivability.

Designed to be flexible enough to meet the needs of a wide variety of OEM truck makers, the new fuel cell electric system in the latest prototypes has been adapted to a Kenworth T680 chassis.Amore compact hydrogen storage cabinet behind the cab houses six hydrogen tanks with the same capacity as previous prototypes while a new, more powerful lithium-ion battery helps smooth out the power flow to the electric motors. In this configuration, the second generation fuel cell system delivers over 300 miles of range at a full load weight of 80,000 lbs., all

while demonstrating exceptional drivability, quiet operation, and zero harmful emissions.

“This is an important step in the transition to emissions-free heavy-duty trucks,” said Andrew Lund, Chief Engineer, Toyota Motor North America Reseach and Development.

“Our first prototype trucks proved that a fuel cell electric powertrain was capable of hauling heavy cargo on a daily basis.

These new prototypes not only use productionintent hardware, they will also allow us to start looking beyond drayage into broader applications of this proven technology.”

Reducing airborne pollution at the Ports of L.A. and Long Beach is an important driver of this program. Toyota’s Environmental Challenge 2050 aims to almost completely eliminate CO2 emissions from our vehicles, operations and supply chain by 2050. Converting the drayage trucks that currently serve these ports to electric drivetrains would move us closer to that goal while improving the quality of life of operators, workers, and communities in and around the ports.

Class 8 heavy-duty truck

COVID-19: My Fear For 2020 Yuletide

I

am excited yet very sad and very worried.

I am excited because the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on December 1, 2020 announced new regulations for 2020 Christmas and New Year celebrations. I am however worried that this new regulations might end up as the initial COVID-19 protocol announced at the height of the outbreak in the country. When the initial regulations was announced, compliance was problematic across the states based on the erroneous belief that COVID-19 was not real. As directed, the Federal Road Safety Corps rolled out its arsenals to checkmate overloading and ensure compulsory use of face mask and social distancing. State Government set up mobile courts to prosecute defaulters. But While the Corps is still battling the inherent abuses and vises such as overloading, non- use of passenger manifest among others to track travelers, structures such as state taskforces and mobile courts initially put in place have since taken the backstage.

I remember sharing similar concern in a piece I titled, My worry on interstate movement. More than ten months after the initial regulations, most Nigerians according to my good friend David are still living in a world of their own. Most still believe that the pandemic is government’s creation to cage their freedom. At social gatherings, the few obedient citizens look like visitors from mars. The story is the same at barbing saloons and even branded taxis whose operators rarely comply because of same erroneous belief. I have therefore chosen to again

SAFE DRIVING with Jonas Agwu amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa Assistant Corps Marshal Zonal Commanding Officer Federal Road Safety Corps.

share my personal experience and findings when the initial regulations were announced because it is still applicable today. At the time of my findings, there was a measure of fear but today that fear has eased off as people feel we have already overcome the pandemic.

So what is the new regulations? The first is the plea by the Presidential Task Force (PTF) to Nigerians not to conduct usual Christmas festivities such as carol services this year. In the words of the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control(NCDC) Chikwe Ihekweazu, Christmas carols, travels and other gatherings during the festive season, could turn out to be “super spreaders” of the coronavirus. “This is really to re-emphasize the call by the PTF that many of the traditional meetings that we engage in at this time of the year, whether they are Christmas carols or festivals, trips, family gatherings, each of those could end up being a super spreader event.“ So, we must take this into consideration as we make our choices,

“he concluded. I have chosen to highlight these which unlike the initial regulations which were rarely comply with seem to be pleas and therefore not enforceable.

So, if Nigerians who love travelling and socials failed to comply with the enforceable regulations, will they really blink at these pleas which are for the good of all of us? Will the total number of cases in the country which stands at about 67,557 compel compliance? Will the global picture which stands at nearly 69million with over a million five hundred deaths persuade the doubting public? Will the euphoria of the much awaited vaccines be the elixir? Will we ponder on these, please read my initial concern published over five months ago.

When the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 announced the lifting of the lockdown on inter- state movement on Monday, 29, June, 2020, I lept with joy like one testifying on the goodness of God. In fact, I was elated as if my survival depended on the reopening of state borders and the commencement of interstate travels. For starters, I am not a transporter; neither am I a commercial driver whose daily survival depends on transportation. Before COVID-19 changed our lives for good, I was a road safety officer and still remain one.

However, since March when the nationwide lockdown begun, I have had a measure of relative rest because of the restriction on movement which reduced motorization in the country. My four months stay at the Federal Road Safety Commission Academy at Udi, in Enugu State between the last week of January

and June, 2020 amplified my relief as I was totally cut off from all the stress and hustle of policing Nigerian drivers with penchant for flouting every possible traffic regulation at will. My business at the Academy was training and retraining as well as molding officers to become committed and dedicated in keeping with the dreams of our founding fathers.

But Just when I was savoring the fun of being called a Vice -Chancellor in the making or a Principal as my colleagues joked when they heard my deployment to the Academy, God Almighty through my boss redeployed me to Jos, the Plateau State capital as Zonal Commanding Officer, overseeing the Plateau, Benue and Nasarawa States. It was fun when I assumed duty a couple of weeks ago in Jos as my burden was restricted to keeping watch over motorization within the metropolis and the local government areas.

Now the borders have been thrown wide open and the wahala of begging Nigerian transporters and commuters to stay safe and drive safely while traveling and transporting has commenced. I must confess that I daily marvel at why a man would choose to kill himself and kill others even when you do all through persuasion and most times even lifting God’s words in both the Holy Bible and Koran to justify the need to stay alive without success. Before the lockdown, Nigerian transporters were impatient, speed freaks and deviants to say the least. After three months of compulsorily staying at home without engaging in the daily business of transporting humans and goods without recourse for the rules guiding safety of lives and property as enshrined in our traffic books, will these same operators become born again transporters?

I allow you to be the judge.

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˜ ˾ DECEMBER 12, 2020

MEDIAGAFFES

EXPRESSION

BY

‘Counsel’ Uncountable

Y

OU are welcome to this edition: “We celebrate a man whose existence & (and) quality of life has (have) been nothing but a blessing (blessings) to humanity.”

“Your understanding and personal experience (experiences) of the harsh realities of life especially in an economy like ours has (have)….”

“Reps express concerns (concern)” “We’ll challenge FG’s plan to clampdown (clamp down) on shareholders’ dividends— Investors” “Obasanjo decries fate of Nigeria’s 14m out of school (out-of-school) children” “President’s wife calls for investment in women (women’s) development” “NGE charges media practitioners (professionals) to refocus practise (practice)” “…the APC are entitled to counsels (counsel) of their choice (choices) who are….”

“I am not hearing you.” Get it right: I cannot hear you (elucidation next week).

“After months of…intra-party litigations….” ‘Litigation’, being the process of making or defending a claim in court, is non-count.

Wrong: last but not the least; right: last but not least NATIONAL NEWS of November 25 offered readers a cocktail of improprieties: “LIRS seals-off (seals off) Protea Hotel for tax evasion” “Edo APC members decamp (defect) to PDP” “1 die (dies), 6 vehicles, houses burnt as fuel tanker explodes in Benin” “When South West APC converges in (on) Ibadan” “Maximizing broadcast content security ahead of digital switch over (switch-over)” “Media must assists (why?) in fight against terrorism—FG” “…indicated that the FG had concluded plans to drag an additional 700,000 companies to shore-up (shore up) its revenue profile.” Phrasal verbs do not admit hyphenation.

“Kekemeke (Kekemeke’s) loyalists invade Ondo APC secretariat” “Another Delta community threatens to shutdown (shut down) Chevron operations” ‘Shut down’ is a phrasal verb while ‘shutdown’ is a noun.

“There are some set of laws that governs the universe….” Critical strokes: either a set of laws or some sets of laws—depending on context or style “Youths should be solution provider (providers) in nation building (nation-building)” “Growing up…had an ‘arrow’ on her forehead, which helped her to remain focus (focused).”

“NURTW charges members on HIV free (HIV-free) society” “Singapore jails senior civil servants over (for) corruption” “ANA postponements (sic) (postpones) May reading” “Peugeot plans to inject $7.26b on (into) research, development” “You lived well and you have gone to (preferably for) a well deserved (welldeserved) rest. Rest in perfect peace.”

(Full-page obituary) Except for graveyard peace, ‘peace’ is an absolute and does not need inflection, intensification or adumbration. So, rest in peace (R.I.P—not R.I.P.P)!

Also note that ‘obituary announcement’ is wrong—just ‘obituary’.

Finally from the Back Page of THE GUARDIAN under review: “One has witnessed at (on) different occasions dissenting opinions of doctors as regards prescriptions for patient’s (a patient’s or patients’) ailment/ailments.”

Next is DAILY TRUST of November 11: “Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar spoke at his palace in Sokoto….” Does the Sultan of Sokoto have another palace elsewhere?

Let us think as we report.

“Heritage Bank plans listing in (on) capital market” “Pact with China conducive for peace, says Taiwan (Taiwan’s or Taiwanese) president” “Otherwise, there is no point we engage in importing that much on yearly (a yearly)

basis.” “…he said though the institute has (had) developed 62 rice varieties for farmers, five most prominent varieties are (were) in circulation and are (were) doing very good (well).”

“NEMA, stakeholders meets over displaced persons” You can readily identify the boyish slip-up.

“With the LG polls now fixed for next week Tuesday….” Either next Tuesday or Tuesday, next week Lastly from DAILY TRUST: “Replicate your performance to (in) your constituents (constituencies)” “Security at airports: Police deploys (sic) sniffer dogs at (in) Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, 5 others” (AIT News, December 4) From DAILY TRUST we move to THISDAY of November 12: “Absence of interpreter stalls trial of Portuguese woman charged for (with) drug trafficking” “Thumb (Thumbs) up for Nigerian refs in Mali” “Obasanjo: Amaechi’s k-leg (knocked leg) has been straightened” The following five solecisms are from DAILY INDEPENDENT of November 12: “DHQ assures of continued offensive” Who did it assure?

“Harnessing potentials of local software industry in Nigeria” ‘Potential’ is uncountable, but we have ‘potentialities’, “Tackling voters apathy in Nigeria” This way: voter apathy SATURDAY INDEPENDENT of December 5 disseminated all manner of school-boy mistakes right from the front page: “Fear has grip (gripped) notable politicians in Ebonyi State following findings by….” Most of the ensuing blunders were caused by sheer carelessness and loose thinking as the computer system has an in-built mechanism that detects most of the spelling errors contained herein.

“The discovery was made when the DSS arrested some kidnappers in the state alleged to be the brain (brains) behind high profile (high-profile) kidnapping in the state.”

Of Love and Life: Wages of Kindness

M

y first note of regard goes to my friend; a not-too-young man with incredible number of years of professional experience. He is usually very unassuming, quiet and immensely gifted. Thomas (not real name) is not flippant with his mouth, his time... his family and his job. Being a man most comfortable and effective working behind the limelight, Tom is annoyingly tight-lipped about divulging information of any sort - worse still, embarrassing stories affecting his private life as a husband to an adorable lady he married over 20 years ago. Yet, bad news has a way of betraying its owners. Tom’s interesting stories got to me from five different and incomplete sources; weeks after some others had gone to town with the distorted and castrated tales that did not actually reflect the correct situation.

Even the correct situation, when eventually Tom and his wife, Yetty narrated to me, in fitful details, still needed some clarification. But how do you go about asking for details of matters best left unsaid, from a couple who are bitterly hurt, even by the mere act of remembrance? It will be indecent.

But the gist is this: Tom loves his work as much as he loves his wife or vice versa.

As far as Yetty is concerned, the ratio is quite clear, and very unfavourable to her.

At work, Tom is a slave to his profession, and his humble and kind heart cannot stop offering any assistance he could give to both superior and junior colleagues.

And he does not discriminate. His office is a beehive of activities; his telephone almost always off the hook.

Fortunately, his ears never get tired of baleful tales of the young and the old who seek his advice, support and help. It is not unusual for Tom to give his last naira note to others before he realises he has no money to take home. Ironically, he would rather push his car home without fuel than beg any of his colleagues for even a stop-gap loan. Certainty, he is not proud; he just does not want to be a burden on anyone. This is the character portrait of Thomas - few years ago - before the scandal that rocked his marriage to its sturdy foundation.

Miriam, a young adorable girl, was the catalyst. According to her own narration, that was the last thing on her mind. An opinion that Yetty and few of her more militant friends scorn with vehemence.

As far as they are concerned, all Miriam needs are a dozen well-aimed slaps and a shove into the Lagos lagoon. If any man wants her thereafter, he can go fish her out!

Such was the fury of Yetty, and those who shared her woes. And this is why… according to her… Tom took his goodness to the status of foolishness when he allowed female subordinates turn his office to counseling room, and him a psychotherapist as they wallowed in the turbulence of unstable romance and unreliable relationships. Tom therefore opened himself to the wiles of the young, calculating seducer called Miriam.

While Miriam was ostensibly crying on the shoulder of Tom, after another bouts of beating and cheating in the hands of a

worthless boyfriend… she apparently was regaling her close friends with her ‘special’ closeness with the boss! And in fact, with time on her side, and admiration flooding in both directions, who says she could not kuku go all the way with Tom? The fact that he was married mattered very little - if at all this was not an original motive.

Miriam seemed to have got a lot of green light with the obvious ‘kid-glove-hand’ Tom had been dealing with her official performance.

It is to Tom’s credit that he pours himself into his work. This same trait is the heartache of Yetty. As far as she is concerned, those ‘little’ girls will not let her husband do his work at the right time, so he can come home to his loving family.

While Miriam and her fellow-travellers waste the useful hours of ‘Sir Tommy’ (as he’s fondly hailed by mates), the workaholic has to spend the few hours remaining in the day to complete his work - even if he has to go home as late as 11pm - or even later.

Still Yetty’s story: the danger in all this was unknown to the unperturbed Tom. Even while working late, he still had angelic escorts in two or three female colleagues hanging around the offices. Of course, one of these warm souls would be Miriam. At other times, only two of them would be in the office.

Yet, Tom’s eyes remained tightly shut to any scheme or subterfuge Miriam might be hatching. Soon, senior colleagues of Tom began to knock him subtly about his “open-house” style, warning him of the effect on staff morale. But by some divine

EBERE WABARA

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

“The SSS in the state said on Friday that it has (had) arrested….” “…motorists were made to watch a bizzare (bizarre) spectacle, (needless comma) as four policemen beat a man gave (who gave) his name as…to a state of stupour (stupor).”

“The policemen, who drove to the scene in a patrol van with registration number KJA 284 AX, threw caution the winds (sic) (threw caution to the wind).”

“Federal University Lafia, (otiose punctuation) matriculates 380 students” Would it have matriculated traders? Just yank off the last word in the extract!

“Community sends SOS to Uzodinma over harrassment” Spell-check: harassment, but embarrassment.

“When Fayemi’s wife rescued woman abandoned with tripplet (triplets)” Still on SATURDAY INDEPENDENT under focus: “…Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has already served the people creditably well…” This is an over-kill: use either ‘creditably’ or ‘well’. Both cannot co-function in the same environment.

“D’Banj is one musician (music/musical) act who has been around for years. “ “My husband usually ask (asks) me to abort my pregnancy, woman tells court” Finally from SATURDAY INDEPENDENT, a voice of your own: “Movie directors threaten sanction on (against) actress” Next on focus is DAILY SUN of November 13: “They buy at N159 and sell at N167, the CBN has (had) addressed last year when….”

“But what the banks decided to do is (was) to even stop selling.”

“Middle aged (Middle-aged) man commits suicide in Jos…Police tries (try) to uncover his identity” “IITA creates 40,000 jobs under cassava to ethanol (cassava-to-ethanol) project” “Edo: Court remands killer cop (killercop)…”

“CBN said money is (was) missing from federation (the federation) account.”

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

AKINTUNDE-JOHNSON fajalive1@gmail.com 08182223348 - (SMS Only)

calculation; the message did not sink in to Tom, or he didn’t think it was any of their business. Though he tried to build some hedge around himself with more work, and more, this was hardly successful - at least not with Miriam. She simply broke through Tom’s shallow defence with one tearful tale after the other of her eternally doomed relationships.

Don’t forget; this is still the picture according to Yetty. Recently, things have grown worse. Nowadays, it is not strange for friends to drop by, wondering: “Is it true? All these gists about Tom and this small girl!”…. Only two of the very brave ones, who seemed to have more extensive details, dared to cap her misery so carelessly: “Have you heard about Tom and that fat witch of a girl whose mother was divorced from three husbands?!” It was not that Yetty did not trust Tom; his soul would not admit extra-marital affairs.

But the insinuations were getting on her nerves in a very bad way.

And again, these girls of today make a feast of tossing unsuspecting families in the air like dominoes; and she would not sit by and let one ‘nonsense’ girl mess up her family; and of course, she wouldn’t want to commit murder because of.... At this point in her narration, Yetty seems to forget herself, clamming up, in obvious pain and disgust.

42

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹ͺ˜ 2020

FAIRGROUND

Celebrities Storm Premiere of ‘Quam’s Money’

with

AZUKA OGUJIUBA

azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

T

he highlyanticipated movie, “Quam’s Money,” had a four-city premiere and all the stars came out dressed in their best interpretations of the event’s theme: Shine-Shine (Bling and Glitters).

‘Quam’s Money’ tells the story of Quam Omole aka Sweet Boy Q, a security guard turned millionaire, who was scammed N500 million in a fraudulent business deal and does everything to get his money back.

The movie’s stars - Falz, Toni Tones, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Williams Uchemba and the rest - made appearances at the different locations, along with influencers and other Nigerian entertainment industry players.

‘Quam’s Money’ is now showing in cinemas around Nigeria.

These are faces of the celebrities at the premier.

Darey Art Alade

Falz

Chinaza Onuzo

Michelle Dede and Nse Ikpe-Etim

Toyin Abraham

WIlliams Uchemba and Falz

Kayode Kasum

Waje and Charles Okpaleke

Adeolu Adefarasin

Williams Uchemba and Brunella Oscar

43

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹ͺ˜ 2020

MARKET PLACE with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

L-R : Head ,Human Resource and Administration, R Jolad Hospital, Samson Akinwale; Founder/ co-chairman, Mahuemolen Aduke L-R: Head, Legal and Corporate Affairs, Olaleye Dada; Supply Chain and Plant Director, Olalekan Aluko; Head of Marketing and Odibo Foundation (MAOF), Mrs Cecilia Odibo; Director of Nursing Services, R Jolad Hospital,Mrs. Bolanle Ipaye ; Consultant CardioloTrade Marketing, Boma Harrison and Head of Sales, Fiyinfoluwa Adewakun all of Suntory Beverage & Food Nigeria, at the ungist at R jolad hospital,Dr Oladapo Adewuya and Admin & Finance Officer at R jolad Hospital, Mr David Victor when MAOF donated veiling of new Lucozade Cola, in Lagos....recently medical oxygen and cylinders as well as other items to R Jolad hospital in Lagos....recently

Suntory Unveils Lucozade Cola in the Market Beverage and Food firm, Suntory Beverage & Food Nigeria Limited, has unveiled a new Lucozade variant, Lucozade Cola, in the market.

According to the company, the new product was introduced to meet evolving consumers’ needs, while ensuring that their refreshment needs are met.

Speaking during the launch of the product in Lagos, recently, Head of Marketing & Trade Marketing at Suntory Beverage & Food, Boma Harrison, stated that Lucozade Cola, a glucosebased energy drink, with a cola flavour, is an extension of the Lucozade energy drink.

He said, “Lucozade Cola gives pure and beneficial energy that stimulates mental and physical positivity of its consumers, which are largely the youths. With our latest, you now have the energy to get through it plus the

fun side of Cola, ensuring the pursuit of your passion never stops. Welcome to the Cooola side of Lucozade with Lucozade Cola. With all the negativity in the world, we all need some energy to go through it”.

He added, “Lucozade Cola is a vibrant drink intended for our vibrant consumers.

They are the everyday, on-the-go men and women who consider themselves as hustlers and digital citizens. These are people leading full and busy lives and have an innate desire to progress and succeed. We want to provide our consumers with products that will enable them in the pursuit of their passions and also support their yearning for an ideal world that is free of negativity.

“We want the brand to resonate with the lifestyle of our target audience which is fun,

trendy and social. These are the value-conscious people who want to lend a voice to the development of the country. Lucozade Cola is powered by Glucose. The importance of glucose to the body is unique. It is an important energy source that is needed by all organs of the body especially the muscles and the brain.

“With the drink ,you get the benefit of refreshment and revitalization during moments when you need energy at work, brainstorming and traffic. it’s your partner for the pursuit of your goals with the fun side of Cola”.

Harrison further restated the commitment of the company to innovation that would enhance the wellness of customers.

He added that the product which is already in the market is available in pet size bottle at a retail price of N270.

CITN Harps on Collaboration for Speedy Economic Recovery The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, CITN, has called on government at different levels to actively involve the private sector in its efforts to resuscitate the economy post COVID-19 .

President of CITN, Dame Olajumoke Simplice, stated this as part of the institute’s policy directions for the country, given the present tough economy weather, occasioned

by COVID-19.

Simplice who was speaking at the 43rd induction ceremony of the institute, pointed out also the need for prudent management of taxpayers’ money by public office holders at this critical time.

She said, “The outbreak of the Corona Virus and its aftermath has brought unimaginable consequences on the world scene.

“Unemployment rates have doubled,

economic growth has slowed down, production levels are on the low to mention but a few. At the local scene, the negative effects of the pandemic are glaring including a severe contraction in government revenues at more than sixty per cent, a widening fiscal deficit, increasing debt stock and rising inflation.

“The recent reports by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics( NBS), have revealed a decline in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP)for the third successive quarter, which signals that Nigeria is now in recession”.

In overcoming this challenge, Simplice further recommended thus, “Nigerian government must collaborate with the private sector to save lives, protect livelihoods and lay the foundations for a strong economic recovery; prioritise investments with large

job creation and high social impact such as agriculture and strengthen institutional capacity building, amongst others. “ The tax expert also charged the 558 newly inducted members on professionalism, adding that much is expected of them during this trying period.

Earlier in his address, Prof. Abdulmumini Bala Ahmed of the Department of Private and Commercial Law Faculty of Law, Bayero University, Kano,called for effective tax administration.

According to him, this is needed to tackle the country’s numerous security challenges and save the already tensed economy.

He also charged the inductees on honesty and integrity, while advising them to raise their bar in line with Adam Smith’s taxation principles for a digitalised economy.

HR Practitioners Advised to Re-strategise as Remote Workforce Consolidates The success of remote work environments has meant that a number of organisations are now looking at making this a more permanent shift in the future.

The way people work has been irrevocably changed by the challenges we have been faced with in this difficult and uncertain year, according to Siwar Zein, Human Resource Director, Microsoft Middle East & Africa Emerging Markets. “The workforce is changing, and HR practitioners must change with it.

Today, you will find more people working from their homes than in office spaces as organisations have shifted towards a fully remote or hybrid work model in order to overcome the limitations placed upon them by the need for social distancing and other measures to curb the spread of COVID-19.”

The HR director quoted a LinkedIn survey which found that “while 43% of respondents are now currently working remotely, a whopping

45% of them are looking to continue with remote work post-COVID-19 and create a more fluid and flexible way of working.”

However, the move towards remote work has meant that employees need a new support system in place to cater to the changed, and unique, needs that spring from working from home. This necessitates a reimagining of the functionalities of every organisations’ human resources (HR) department and an overhaul in its systems, processes, and guidelines, he said.

“HR professionals are responsible for managing the entire employee lifecycle. This ranges from recruiting to onboarding, training, employee development, morale and engagement programmes, workplace conflict resolution, company reorganisations, and much more.

“But, in a remote environment these factors don’t play out in much the same way. For example, building manager capability, HR professionals need to review at the way they

approach the management and support of their workforce within the context of a new way of conducting work. “Motivation building, maintaining team engagement and now more importantly demonstrating inclusive practises in day to day engagements as they navigate the hybrid workplace, will be key areas that HR professional will need to collaborate and support people managers in organisations.”

He said employees also need greater support as remote models could lead to an increased or decreased workload, a push for productivity that could lead to burnout and increased anxiety.

Remote work can have a significant impact on an employee’s wellbeing if the correct systems aren’t in place to help them adjust to this new environment and find balance as they experience a blur between the work and home environment while also handling household responsibilities in a constantly connected space.

Foundation Seeks End to Medical Negligence, Donates Equipment A philanthropic organisation, Mahuemolen Aduke Odibo Foundation (MAOF), has condemned the act of medical negligence across hospitals, just as it donated medical oxygen gas and cylinder to R jolad hospital in Lagos.

The donation which was made in collaboration with Babington Ashaye Family Foundation was in fulfilment of MAOF’s objectives at ensuring quality healthcare service delivery, as well as transparency and accountability in healthcare management.

Specifically, Founder and Co-Chairman at MAOF, Cecilia Odibo, stated that the gesture was part of the foundation’s efforts in addressing medical negligence partly caused by equipment and infrastructure deficits.

Odibo said that the donation will soon go round the six geopolitical zones of the country after completing donation in the South-West.

While speaking during the delivery of the items in Lagos, Odibo lamented the extent of medical negligence in the country, which she said was responsible for many avoidable deaths.

She added that the foundation was launched in remembrance of a young and promising Mahuemolen Aduke Odibo, whose life was cut short as a result of medical negligence, mainly by lack of medical oxygen gas, medical suction machine and improper administration of professional care.

“The prevalence of negligence in both public and private hospitals is worrisome. It gives more psychological and excruciating pains when reasons of such early passage of life was not clinical but due to mere human errors of omission occasioned by medical negligence.”

To drive home the foundation’s mission, Odibo informed that the foundation has pegged its activities on a 3-point agenda including organising a legal medics seminar, supporting indigent families with autopsy report, as well as periodic donation of medical oxygen gas to hospitals.

Africa Urged to Domesticate Singapore Convention African governments have been advised to see to the domestication of the Singapore Convention which came to force in September, 2020.

The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators ,CIArb, Nigeria branch, gave this advice recently in a communiqué issued at the end of its 2020 annual conference that took place virtually.

The Singapore Convention is a United Nations Convention on International Settlement Agreements resulting from mediation, which holds a significant development in international commercial dispute resolution.

The communiqué which was jointly signed by CIArb Nigeria branch chairman, Tunde Busari (SAN), and conference organising chairman, Yakubu Maikyau (SAN), noted that domesticating the convention was necessary as part of preparations for free trade regime, which is also an effective tool for cross-border disputes in Africa. The arbitrators enjoined policy makers to lay the groundwork for proper implementation and ratification of the convention.

They also called for the training and retraining of judges and practitioners for better understanding of the convention.

“Judges and practitioners should be trained to understand that once a party is a signatory to a convention, jurisdiction has been submitted to the regime. Thus, Nigeria and her courts are bound to enforce mediation outcomes”.

On African Continental Free Trade Area , AFCFTA, the arbitrators charged African states to unionize and form an effective dispute resolution system.

“The greatest challenge to the success of free trade in Africa is the dearth of knowledge on how to penetrate the mechanisms of laws in the variety of areas and where commercial parties do agree to contract, overcoming trust deficit accentuated by the historical, cultural, linguistic and legal differences.

44

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͯͰ˜ ͰͮͰͮ

Finally, FG Defines BPE, ICRC Roles

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nalysts have argued that despite a number of laws regulating PPPs, Nigeria is yet to enjoy the influx of foreign direct investments to develop its infrastructure. This is attributable to the existence of a multitude and conflicting web of laws regulating PPPs in the country. There are also a host of institutions trying to regulate the same transactions culminating in constant conflicts between these agencies.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha admitted recently that the conflict of responsibility between the BPE and ICRC was traceable to the absence of a clear distinction between the functions of both agencies with dire consequences on investors’ confidence in the Nigerian economy.

In a bid to address the situation, Mustapha in a circular dated September 14, 2020, the SGF clearly delineated the roles the BPE and ICRC, will henceforth play in IPPs’ transactions.

The circular with reference number SGF.50/S.37/II/749, became necessary to clear any ambiguity or overlap associated with the mandates ascribed to both agencies by their enabling laws.

Prior to the circular, the BPE and ICRC had indulged in what was at best splitting of hairs over whose responsibility it was to oversee PPP transactions.

Incidentally, both agencies are under the purview of the Presidency.

The circular outlined fresh guidelines on how PPP transactions and models for infrastructure development will be managed in Nigeria, going forward, effectively handing over the job of managing PPP transactions to the BPE. Through the new guidelines, the government also put to rest the lingering conflict of responsibility between the BPE and ICRC on the management of PPP transactions in the country.

In what amounted to an open admittance of contradictions in theIr functions, Mustapha condemned the conflict of responsibility between both agencies, adding that the absence of a clear distinction between the functions of the ICRC and the BPE has consequences on investors’ confidence in the Nigerian economy.

He noted that it was for this reason that the government approved the new guidelines for use in the ‘National Policy on Public Private Partnership (PPP)’ with regards to the roles of the ICRC and BPE in the administration of PPP processes.

The SGF said: “The BPE, in line with the provisions of the Public Enterprises (Privatisation and Commercialisation) order of 2012 as amended, shall: be responsible for the concession of public enterprises and infrastructure already listed in the first and second schedule of the Public Enterprises (Privatisation and Commercialisation) Act, and act on behalf of the federal government, either alone or in conjunction with relevant ministry, agency, corporation of body as the counterparty on all infrastructure projects being developed on a public private partnership basis.”

The ICRC on its part, he added, will “act as the regulatory agency for PPP transactions with powers to inspect, supervise, as well as monitor the projects and process, in order to ensure compliance with relevant laws, policies and regulations.”

In processing any PPP transaction, Mustapha stated that the BPE and other relevant government agencies shall comply with the provisions of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission Establishment Act of 2005, adding that circular supersedes any other previous directive on the subject.

Before this intervention, the BPE and ICRC had repeatedly contradicted each other on whose responsibility it was to initiate and manage PPP transactions in the country, a situation that may have helped to torpedo potential transactions in this regard.

VP Reaffirms New Roles for BPE, ICRC To underscore the federal government’s resolve to end the controversy between the BPE and ICRC, the Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo stated that with the new circular on the administration of PPP projects in the country, the BPE shall now be responsible for the concession of public enterprises and infrastructure already listed in the First and Second Schedules of the Public Enterprises Act, Vice President and Chairman, National Council on Privatisation (NCP).

Osinbajo, who is the Chairman of the National Council on Privatisation (NCP) spoke at a recent webinar on deepening the Nigerian Infrastructure stock through Public-Private Partnership (PPP), organised by the BPE. In addition, he said, the BPE shall act on behalf of the federal government of Nigeria (FGN) as the counterparty on all infrastructure projects being developed on a PPP basis while the ICRC continues to act as the regulatory agency for PPP transactions with powers to inspect, supervise and monitor the projects and processes to ensure compliance with relevant laws, policies and regulations.

Osinbajo said it was expected that “this new policy direction would provide clarity to stakeholders and foster the improvement of PPP programmes in the country,” adding that ministries,

Mustapha

departments and agencies (MDAs) as well as the multilateral agencies and development partners, were urged to support the PPP policy objectives and institutional arrangements already put up by the government.

He, however, said that the federal government was willing to dialogue and incorporate suggestions from stakeholders with a view to further strengthening Nigeria’s PPP framework.

He added that as part of the new environment being created for the implementation of PPP projects, the federal government through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and African Finance Corporation (AFC) and other financial institutions, will be creating a N15 trillion Infrastructure Fund that will help, not only unlock investment from local sources but also attract foreign private investment in infrastructure development.”

BPE Outlines Steps to Showcase Achievements on PPP Through the implementation of the new federal government’s circular on the administration PPP projects in the country, the BPE has outlined steps, with timelines in the next 12 months to two years; to showcase its collective achievements.

Director General of the privatisation agency, Mr. Alex A. Okoh has said the first step involves the engagement with key MDAs to work out modalities for implementing the circular.

He said, in the first quarter of 2021, the Bureau would develop and circulate a template that would enable MDAs to document all the ongoing PPP transactions and their current status and that the BPE, working together with the MDAs, would host two additional webinars in the first quarter of next year.

“One of the webinars will be targeted at local and international

financial institutions, including international development financial institutions. These are the partners that are expected to provide funding to investors in the Nigerian PPP market”, he stated.

According to Okoh, “the second webinar will be targeted at local and foreign construction companies, infrastructure management companies and other investors who are global players in the delivery of infrastructure through PPP arrangements”.

Similarly, he disclosed that in the second quarter of next year, the update or development of Nigeria’s pipeline of PPP projects would be finalised and launched, thus, signalling the commencement of the procurement phase of individual PPP projects across the country.

“Also in the second quarter, a webinar will be held for governors and other sub-national leaders to obtain their buy-in given that they are critical stakeholders in the delivery of infrastructure,” he said.

According to Okoh, the last step would lead to the establishment of Transaction Implementation Committees (TIC) where each of the committees will be established with membership drawn from the BPE and relevant MDAs in the third quarter, with the mandate to deliver specific projects contained in the approved national project pipeline.

He commended President Muhammadu Buhari for the bold and creative approach to infrastructure development in Nigeria even as he thanked the Vice President and Chairman of the NCP, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo for his advice and unrelenting commitment to ensuring that Nigeria is able to unlock investment capital into the infrastructure space, boost economic development and create jobs.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾DECEMBER 12, 2020

NEWSXTRA

Registrars of Federal University Elect Officers Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

ENDORSEMENT THAT WORKS...

L-R: Jennifer Ukoh, PR Manager, GOtv Nigeria, Olamilekan Agbeleshe, aka Laycon, GOtv Ambassador and BBNaija Season 5 Winner and Adetunji BeyiokuSenior Marketing Manager, MultiChoice Nigeria during the GOtv city tour in Abuja recently

Dividing PDP Governors May Cost Party 2023 Presidency, Wike Warns Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has alleged that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was sowing seed of discord among PDP governors and may cost the party the 2023 presidential quest.

He also warned that President Muhammadu Buhari’s integrity would be at stake if he failed to honour invitation of the House of Representatives to address the growing concern about the spate of insecurity across the country.

This is as the governor dismissed the effect of decampees from the party on their fortunes, tagging those dumping the party in Rivers State as political neophytes.

Wike, while speaking on a live television programme in Port Harcourt yesterday regretted that instead of capitalising on the inefficiency and maladministration that had characterised the All Progressives Congress (APC) five years in power, PDP’s NWC was deepening cracks in the party.

“PDP ought to have harvested from the inefficiency of the APC; from the maladministration of the APC. Ordinarily, that is what opposition party ought to do. If you ask me, are Nigerians waiting for a change?

Yes. If you ask me as a member of

PDP, I’m ready to support PDP to takeover, yes. But, if you ask me currently as it is, is the leadership of the party willing for us to harvest this opportunity for a change, I will say no,” he stated.

The governor explained that instead of focusing on strategies to take advantage of the growing disenchantment with the APC government, the NWC was dividing governors using two former governors of Imo and Cross River states and present Senator from Benue State.

“An opposition party that ought to be united, to work, to take over the affairs of government, because people are waiting for this opportunity, but the current leadership of NWC is not prepared for that, rather, what they have done is to constitute some people to sow a seed of discord among governors for their own selfish interest. And that will boomerang; that will consume them.”

The governor said because he couldn’t defect to the APC or another political party, he would continue to do what he can to ensure the survival of the PDP. “I will not allow anybody to kill PDP. They have capacity to move to APC. I don’t and I cannot move to APC. So, anybody that tries to do something to destroy PDP, I will not allow you. Anybody that I see

that has the trait to destroy the PDP, I will not allow it.”

He described as disingenuous the decision of the NWC to jettison the recommendations of Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom-led committee set up to reconcile the party in Niger and Plateau states, just because of its vested interest in Niger State.

The governor accused the current leadership of NWC of merely being interested in retaining current structure of the party to remain in power, and not to win the 2023 election.

“The present National Working Committee is not interested or doing anything to take over the realms of government in 2023. When your interest is to remain in power, you are no longer interested to win election.”

Governor Wike, said the level of insecurity leading to deaths, particularly in Borno State and other parts of the country ought to have compelled President Buhari to keep his promise of honouring the invitation by the House of Representatives.

He pointed out that it was APC members who control majority in the National Assembly that moved the motion to invite President to address them on what measures are being taken to tackle and end the

spate of violent killings, to which he consented.

He faulted the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation for turning around to subject the invitation to legal interpretation, instead of protecting the integrity of the President which is now at stake.

“There is insecurity. People are dying. You don’t go by legal approach to solve that problem. If Mr. President had given the assurance, saying my integrity is at stake, therefore I will go, that decision was not taken without talking first to his inner cabinet.

“It’s not a question and answer session. You go with a brief to address the congress. To say, see where it was when we came, see where we are today. Yes, we have not achieved what we thought, but what we require from everyone is cooperation.

“For me, I think this is not the period to be legalistic. This is the period every Nigerian should be concerned about what is happening. Just this morning (Friday), I heard that 16 people were killed on Abuja-Kaduna Road yesterday.

Look at the loss of life in Borno State. Senate has said look, Mr. President, relieve all Service Chiefs, which means they are concerned about the security situation in the country,” Wike pointed out.

Govt Imposes Curfew on Ondo Communities as Communal Clash Claims 2 James Sowole in Akure

The Ondo State Government has imposed 24-hour curfew on Ude and Isinigbo communities in Akure North Local Government.

The action of the government, according to the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Donald Ojogo, was sequel to the lingering clashes between the two communities, which had led to the burning of the palaces of their traditional rulers.

The curfew according to the commissioner, took effect immediately.

Confirming the incident, the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Mr. Tee -Leo Ikoro, said two people were killed during the attack.

He confirmed that the driver to the monarch was burnt by the gunmen while they shot one of the traditional ruler’s brother.

Aside approving this action, Ojogo said Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, had equally ordered a massive manhunt for perpetrators of the violence just as investigations are already on to unravel the real cause(s) of same.

He said ,” With respect to the curfew, security agencies have been directed to ensure total compliance with the order. For emphasis, both Ode and Isinigbo communities have been closed down for any unathourised human movement and activity until further notice.”

The crisis between the two communities, worsened early yesterday

as gunmen suspected to have been hired, attacked traditional ruler of Isinigbo Oba Samuel Fadahunsi.

The palace of the monarch, who is now hospitalised, was razed by the attackers.

Oba Fadahunsi who is said to be 100 years old, was said to have been trapped inside the inferno but was rescued after the gunmen were chased away.

Isinigbo and neighbouring Ude community have been at loggerheads over land dispute.

Last week, youths from Isinigbo in protest over destruction of their houses stormed the palace of the traditional ruler of Ude, Sunday Boboye, the Ajagun of Ude, and set it ablaze.

Oba Boboye fled for safety and

another attack was reportedly carried out on him when he returned and he said he scaled the fence to escape being killed.

In an interview, Oba Boboye said he secured a court judgement in 2017 that a large portion of land sold by Isinigbo belonged to him.

He said all efforts to call the new buyers for negotiation failed as they offered to pay N100,000 per plot against the N600,000 he demanded.

But Secretary of Isinigbo, Adeleye Rotimi, said they didn’t take the threat of an attack seriously, until the gunmen used another route to attack the community.

Rotimi said Oba Fadahunsi was responding to treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

The Association of Registrars of Nigerian Universities has elected the Registrar of Federal University, Lafia, Nassarawa State, Dr. Abubakar Mamuda, as Chairman with other seven outstanding registrars of other universities as its national executives for a period of two years during its 15th annual business retreat.

Others are Vice-Chairman, Mr. Aminu Bello Mohammed, Kano University of Science and Technology, Wudil; Secretary-General, Dr. Bola Adekola, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta; Assistant Secretary General, Halima BalaMohammed, Modibo Adama University of Technology, Yola; Treasurer, Dr. Alfred Mulade, Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko; Public Relations Officer, Mr. Olukayode Akindele, Redeemer’s University, Ede; Welfare

Officer, Mrs. Bibian Nwokwu, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki; and the immediate past Chairman/ Ex-Officio, Mr. John Nnabuihe, Federal University of Technology, Owerri.

Dr. Mamuda was a former Senior Adviser on Poverty Alleviation to Governor of Bauchi State Government between 2006 and 2009.

He holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Political Economy and Development Studies from University of Abuja in 2006.

As a consummate administrator, he attended the University of Salford, Manchester where he bagged a Master of Science in Human Resources and Development.

In addition to an experience that covers various aspects of the registry that spanned over 27 years, he served as the interim chairman of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, University of Abuja Branch between 2015 and 2016.

Anambra Police Kill Two Suspected Armed Robbers during Gun Duel David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka Men of Anambra State Police Command have killed two suspected armed robbers during a gun duel.

The spokesperson of the State Police Command, SP Haruna Mohammed who disclosed this said the men were killed after police officers responded to distress calls by residents of a part of Onitsha, but were challenged to a gun duel when they arrived.

A press release sent to THISDAY read, “On the 11/12/2020 at about 10:10am, there was a distress call that four armed robbery suspects who belonged to a gang led by Ikanda(a notorious armed robber presently remanded in prison custody in connection with a murder case) were operating along Zik’s Avenue by Miss Ellems Onitsha.

“Following the distress call,

Police operatives attached to Fegge Division Onitsha quickly responded and rushed to the scene.

As soon as the suspected armed robbers sighted the police they engaged them into a gun duel.

“In the process two suspects were fatally wounded and overpowered while two others escaped. The injured Suspects one alias Dorgba and Fela whose real names are yet to be known were rushed to the hospital for treatment but certified dead on arrival by a medical doctor and their corpses deposited at the mortuary.”

He added that one locally made double barrel gun, four live cartridges, two expended cartridges, a charm, two wraps of dried leaves suspected to be indian hemp, two techno phones and other items were recovered from the suspects and registered as exhibits.

Most Cancers Arise from Sugar Consumption, Says Don Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo A university Don, Professor Bamidele Salau yesterday posited that sugar was a dietary factor that had been implicated in the causation of different types of cancers.

He stated this at the sixth inaugural lecture of the Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State.

Professor Salau noted that several types of cancers had been established to have strong links with sugar consumption.

Professor of Biochemistry also submitted that there was bitterness in sugar which camouflaged as sweetness and that sucrose which is an important component was a poison to the body.

He stressed that since no poison

is safe, it should be treated as such.

The Don explained that research had shown that some of the world’s dangerous diseases like diabetes mellitus, metabolic disorder hypertension; and many others were from sugar.

He added that studies in animal models had equally shown that high fructose, high sucrose and fatty diets that may induce metabolic syndrome.

Professor Salau added that “sugar has been implicated in the causation of metabolic syndrome which is a scaffold for the development of cancer, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes Miletus.”

He said “It is unusual to associate bitterness to sugar, a substance that is synonymous to anything sweet throughout all.”

Dapo Ojora Passes Away Dapo Ojora, a socialite and one of the sons of board room guru, Otunba Adekunle Ojora and Erelu Ojuolape Ojora is dead.

Dapo, reportedly shot himself in the head yesterday evening according to sources although his family is yet to confirm the report.

Having mysteriously escaped death sometime back via a ghastly power bike accident, which forced him to beat a retreat from the public space, it therefore comes as a shock that the polo buff would take his own life in such a gruesome manner.

46

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 12, 2020

NEWS EXTRA

Obasanjo Congratulates Akufo-Addo, Calls for Unity Bennett Oghifo Former President Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday congratulated the Ghanaian president who was re-elected during the week, urging him to be magnanimous in victory and to unite his country.

Obasanjo said in his congratulatory letter that Akufo-Addo was reelected because of his performance in office, urging him to keep up the good work.

He reminded the president that “your re-election by the people of Ghana to govern the country

for another term of four years is a testimony of your performance in office so far and I believe that you will remain as enthusiastic, as energetic, as focused, and as committed as you have been in the last four years in serving the people of Ghana and indeed the rest of Africa for the next four years.

“With the elections behind you, I urge you to be magnanimous in victory, unite the nation, and bring all hands on deck for the growth, development and progress of Ghana.”

Obasanjo also admonished

President Akufo-Addo on the imperative of procuring affordable vaccines for use by Ghanaians and other Africans to counter the dreaded Coronavirus.

He advised him “to take leader-

ship and explore all available means both in Ghana and in the rest of Africa to secure safe, effective, available, and affordable COVID-19 vaccines for all Ghanaians and their African brothers and sisters.”

The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Ghana, Jean Adukwei Mensa had declared Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party winner of the December 7, 2020 election, stating that he

received 6,730,413 or 51.59 per cent of total votes, while his closest rival, John Mahama of the National Democratic Congress received 6,214,889 or 47.36 per cent of ballots cast.

Fayemi, Ogah, IGP, Win 2020 Integrity Award Olaoluwakitan Babatunde The Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uche Ogah, IG Mohammed Adamu, Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Dr. Boboye Olayemi Oyeyemi, and Assistant Inspector General of Police (rtd), Mr. Tunde Ogunsakin were top on the list of winners at this year’s integrity award.

The Annual Integrity Lecture and Award, organised by Nigerian Association of Christian Journalists (NACJ) at Abuja Sheraton Hotel, recently, was characterised with pomp and pageantry.

The event with the theme: Integrity is Everything, began with the keynote address titled, “Integrity, Key Factor to Building a Virile Nation”, which was delivered by retired Assistant Inspector General of Police,

Barr Tunde Ogunsakin, who also presided as the Chairman of the occasion.

One of the well-appraised recipients was Dr. Uche Ogah, Minister of State for Mines And Steel Development, celebrated as “The Most Outstanding Integrity Minister of The Year”. Dr. Ogah emerged as the most deserving candidate for the award after a keen contest of seven other ministers that were nominated for the same category.

By this award, Ogah is automatically an esteemed Ambassador NACJ, as well as symbol of integrity amongst Nigeria’s leaders at the corridors of power. Other prominent leaders who were equally honoured for their high sense of integrity include Governor Fayemi who was decorated with the, “Most Outstanding Democratic Integrity Governor of The Year”, for his reverence for democratic principles.

Nail-biting Race to Arise Fashion Week 2020 Finale Vanessa Obioha

More than 15 designers showcased their fashion pieces to a prominent panel of judges headed by coproducer Ruth Osime last night at the Arise Fashion Week show.

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The designers are in the race for the coveted cash prize of $100,000.

First and second runners-up will also receive $75,000 and $50,000 respectively. It is the first time the fashion event is accomodating a competition as a way of supporting the young designers selected for this year’s event. The designers will be judged based on their creativity, quality of design and styling.

Last night saw creative pieces from Nigerian designers Pepper Row, Onalaja, Bibi, Kenyan Kiko Romeo, Caribbean designer Jawara Alleyne, Ladunni Lambo among other designers showcasing their works to the judges which include fashion designers Mai Atafo and Folake Coker, luxury retailer Abisola Kola-Daisi, Nigerian-American artist Kehinde Wiley, and GQStyle fashion director Mobolaji Dawodu.

The night also saw international model Alton Mason walking the runway for designers like Bloke and Colrs owned by German designer Punk Zec. There were music performances from electro-fusion singer WurlD, the multi-talented singer and fashion designer Wavy the Creator, Highlife duo, The Cavemen as well as foremost Nigerian musician Wizkid.

For today’s show, the top eight will be selected and have their final shows before the top three winners will be selected.

Music acts billed for tomorrow’s event include award-winning singer Asa, Wande Coal and Falana.

FOR SANITY ON OUR ROADS...

Commander of the Lagos State Governor’s Monitoring Team, SP Shola Jejeloye addressing the Press during an arrest of motorists contravening traffic law in the State on Friday, December 11, 2020.

Lagos Impounds 42Vehicles for Driving against Traffic Three police officers and a naval rating were among offenders whose 42 vehicles were impounded yesterday in an enforcement carried out by the Anti-oneway and Other Traffic Offences Squad of the Lagos State Government.

The traffic offenders were arrested during the Squad’s operations along Apapa-Oshodi Expressway and Mile 2 area of the State.

The vehicles impounded include two articulated trucks and commercial tricycles were arrested by the Squad led by the Commander of policemen in Governor’s Monitoring Team (GMT), Shola Jejeloye, a Superintendent of Police (SP).

The enforcement was jointly carried out by the Squad and men of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).

The Squad was specially created, last Monday, by the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hakeem Odumosu, at the instance of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, with the specific mandate to arrest and impound vehicles plying one-way, BRT lanes and also commercial motorcycles operating in restricted areas.

The mission assumed a dangerous turn when a commercial bus driver driving against traffic on

Cele Bridge made an attempt to ram into the operational vehicles of the Anti-One Way Squad in a bid to avoid arrest.

Rather than stop, the driver of the bus, which was fully loaded with passengers, dangerously

meandered through the gaps in the convoy and made an attempt to hit officers on sight. The bus revved to a stop when the reckless driver hit a stationary water truck. The driver fled immediately, leaving the bus passengers to their fate.

Record 796 New COVID-19 Infections in Nigeria Nigeria hit its highest daily count of coronavirus infections yesterday with 796 new cases recorded in 15 states and the federal capital territory (FCT).

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) confirmed the new cases in its update for December 11, 2020.

The development comes almost six months after the country recorded its previous highest count - 790 positive samples on July 1.

South African Change Makers to Feature on AfricanVoices Two reputable South Africans, well talented in textile designs and style will this week hug the klieglights on African Voices Changemakers, a magazine programme of the Cable News Network (CNN) sponsored by telecommunication services provider, Globacom.

Although both Sindiso Khumalo and Wendy Ntinezo hail from South Africa, the former, who is a specialist in

women’s wear textile designs, lives and works in Hackney, East London.

According to a stamen from Globacom, sponsors of the programme, Khumalo was shortlisted in 2012 for the Elle Magazine Rising Star Competition and showcased her debut SS13 collection at the Awards. In February, 2013, her Aretha Dress was nominated for “Most Beautiful

Object in South Africa” by the Design Indaba Cape Town. She works with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in various parts of Africa in developing new textiles for her collections.

Ntinezo, Johannesburg-based actress, stylist and mental wellness advocate is also the founder of Black Merge TV. She is regarded as a style icon who has a huge impact on the South African youth.

The 25-year-old is a content creator and producer who recently launched a television show, “Conversations We Never Had”, which harps on living, religion and spirituality.

African Voices Changemakers will be broadcast at 9.30 a.m. on Saturday on CNN on DSTV Channel 401. Repeat broadcasts come up on Sunday at 4.30 a.m., 7.30 a.m., 12.30 p.m. and 7.3.0 p.m. and on Monday at 5.30 a.m.

Marcelle Ruth Launches State-of-the-Art Cancer Centre in Lagos Chiamaka Ozulumba

The Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre has launched a stateof-the-art specialist hospital in Lagos as part of efforts to tackle the growing cases of cancer in the state.

Speaking during the launch of the facility in Lagos recently, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and co-Founder, Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre, Dr. Modupe Elebute Odunsi, said the facility was a comprehensive one-stop-shop where every issue relating to cancer, including diagnosis can be addressed.

She said: “The centre has an array of highly skilled medical

professionals across the globe under one roof, equipped with ultramodern infrastructure and technology for cancer care in Nigeria, dubbed ‘Why go abroad service’.

“It is equipped with a stateof-the-art radiotherapy centre kitted with linear accelerator and brachytherapy, modern laboratory services, two operating theatres, an eight-bed chemotherapy suite, 15 private ensuite in patient rooms, pharmacy and counselling service.

“The MRCC is a private investment tailored intentionally to capture a significant percentage of cancer medical tourist patients and to be a reference point for research, data analysis and a

training institute for key players and stakeholders for not just Nigerians but Sub-Saharan Africa.’

The centre boasts of a high tech cancer screening clinics, on-site radiotherapy service with state-of-the-art equipment, multi-disciplinary clinical service by world-renowned specialists, Robust IT systems to ensure safe delivery of treatment at all times, on-site chemotherapy service delivered in comfortable ‘pods’ and high-tech diagnostic imaging and pathology service.

According to her, there was a huge gap in care for cancer patients in Nigeria, adding that diagnostics and radiotherapy treatment were a big concern.

“Ideally, there should be one radiotherapy machine per a 100,000 population but in Nigeria there are about 10 with about 3-4 working at this current time and that’s where MRCC would bridge the gap.”

“I have partnered with renowned personnel in the medical field in the US and UK, some of whom would be here full-time and some of whom would be working with us in what we call a ‘tumour board’ which we can do virtually”.

According to the former Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, the facility came at a time of shortage of centres that deal with cancers.

47

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 12, 2020

SPORTS XTRA

Ola Aina Becomes First Nigerian to Win Premier League Goal of the Month

S

uper Eagles defender and Chelsea Academy product, Ola Aina has won the Premier League Goal of the Month award for November 2020.

The Torino loanee has entered the history books as the first player with a Nigerian passport to win the prestigious accolade since the award was introduced for the 2016-2017 season.

Aina’s spectacular strike against West Brom on November 2 fought off competition from Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, Manchester City’s Riyad Mahrez, Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy, Southampton

duo Danny Ings and James Ward-Prowse, Brighton & Hove’s Solly March and Leeds United’s Raphinha to claim the prize.

Thirty minutes in at Craven Cottage against the Baggies,

the Super Eagles right-back doubled Fulham’s advantage with a wonderful strike into the top corner - his first goal in the Premier League in his seventh appearance.

Aina is the third Fulham player to win the Premier League Goal of the Month,

after Jean Michael Seri and Andre Schurrle who won the prize for August 2018 and January 2019 respectively.

Aina’s goal was chosen by a panel of experts combined with a public vote, beating seven other contenders.

Hayatou to be Made Honourable Caf President

Ola Aina poses with his Goal of the Month award

Crystal Palace Manager Hails Eberechi Eze’s Signing Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson has acknowledged that the signing of Eberechi Eze from Queens Park Rangers has made the squad stronger.

The England U21 international of Nigerian descent had to step up his game towards the tail end of November due to the unavailability of Palace’s most influential player Wilfried Zaha who tested positive for coronavirus.

The Eagles lost all the three matches Zaha wasn’t in the squad this term - against Burnley and

Newcastle United in the Premier League and Bournemouth in the League Cup. Hodgson pointed out that Eze is good in link-up play and the Ivory Coast national teamer stands to benefit from the attacking midfielder ’s passes.

On Eze taking the heat off Zaha, Hodgson told reporters at yesterday’s pre-match conference ahead of this weekend’s derby versus Tottenham Hotspur: “The stat about us without Zaha is a bit of a half-truth because we’ve played well in some

of those games and lost.

“But Eze is showing us at the moment that we’ve made the right decision.

“Being an offensive player and making a cutting pass will definitely help Wilf, as will Benteke and Schlupp.”

Meanwhile, Eze has won Crystal Palace’s Goal of the Month award for November for his sensational free-kick goal against Leeds United.

With 52.8 per cent of the votes, the 22-year-old placed first ahead of Kate Natkiel (18.6%) and Fionn Mooney (15.4%).

Obuh Backs Iwobi’s Wing-back Role at Everton

Former Nigeria U17 and U20 coach John Obuh has backed Carlo Ancelotti’s decision to play Alex Iwobi in the wingback role at Everton in the last few weeks.

Following injuries to Seamus Coleman and Lucas Digne, Ancelotti opted to use Iwobi as a right-back and the Nigeria international has delivered impressive performances so far.

Earlier this season, Iwobi struggled for playing time on the Merseyside but Obuh has likened the 24-year-old’s situation to his nephew Jay-Jay Okocha who played not just a role in the midfield during his career.

“Did Okocha just play one position throughout his career? Once you see situations like this, you must accept it

in good fate because it depends on the coach who has now found out that he can do it and he did it in the games,” Obuh told Goal.

“He is doing it for the team does not mean that is his permanent position, it depends on the formation and the tactical ability that he will present as regards to what the coach wants.

“If you remember, sometimes ago, Moses also did that at Chelsea when Conte was there and it is always very good once you see a player who can switch positions just because of the demand of the team’s tactics.

“I’m sure he must have done it for quite sometimes before he was

presented in a match. He really did his best and I was very happy with him.

Iwobi is in contention to make his 11th league appearance of the season when Everton host Chelsea at Goodison Park today.

Obuh believes the former Arsenal star can continue his fine defensive performances against Frank Lampard’s side.

“It depends on the preparation that he had before this weekend’s match and I’m sure if the coach feels he can still deal with it, even when he plays against Chelsea so be it. But I think he can really handle it, it is not a problem,” said the 60-year-old, who guided Nigeria to a second-place finish at the 2019 Fifa U17 World Cup on home soil.

Nigerian-born, Osayi Nominated for Championship Goal of the Month Award

Nigerian-born winger Bright Osayi-Samuel has been nominated for the EFL Championship Goal of the Month award for November 2020.

The winger netted his second of the season as Queens Park Rangers edged a five-goal thriller against Rotherham United at the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium on November 24.

Just before half time, OsayiSamuel restored the Hoops one-

goal lead when he swept the ball into the top corner of the net after driving into the penalty area.

The 22-year-old has been nominated alongside Bournemouth’s Lewis Cook and Millwall’s Jed Wallace.

At the time of writing, OsayiSamuel (28.4 percent) was third in the Twitter Poll, behind Cook (36.4 percent) and Wallace (35.2 percent).

Despite speculation surround-

ing his future, the Blackpool academy product has been key for Queens Park Rangers in 2020-2021, starting 15 out of a possible 17 games in the second-tier while logging 1,262 minutes.

Last season, Osayi-Samuel won QPR’s Goal of the Season for his brilliant strike against Birmingham City and Daphne Biggs Supporters’ Young Player of the Year award.

Hayatou spent 29 years running the Confederation of African Football Issa Hayatou will be granted the status of honorary president of the Confederation of African Football (Caf) next month at a special ceremony in his home nation Cameroon.

Hayatou is the longest-serving ruler in Caf’s history, having led the African football body from 1988 to 2017.

The 74-year-old was made an honorary vice-president of Fifa after losing the elections three years ago, and now Caf is following suit.

“This distinguished leader presided over Caf for 30 years… and this honour salutes his immense role in the development of African football,” Caf said in a statement.

The decision to make Hayatou an honorary president was a proposal by the Executive Committee (ExCo) which the General Assembly approved yesterday.

The ceremony, which originally would have taken place in early 2020 but was postponed due to coronavirus, will take place in Yaounde on January 15, - a day before the African Nations Championship (Chan) kicks off in Cameroon.

Joshua, Pulev in Heated Exchange at Weigh-in Anthony Joshua pointed in Kubrat Pulev’s face during a furious exchange of words at the weigh-in for their world heavyweight title fight.

Britain’s WBA, IBF and WBO champion reacted to taunts from Pulev, even before he tipped the scales at 17st 2lbs for today’s fight at The SSE Arena in Wembley.

Security stepped between Joshua and the Bulgarian challenger, who had weighed in at 17st 1lbs, but both fighters then became embroiled in a heated face-off before they were eventually separated on the stage.

Joshua reacted to Sky Sports: “I would have clapped him on his jaw, just then.

“But I have to wait till tomorrow.

“I know what he is like. I’ve studied him. He thinks he’s a warrior.

“I said to him: ‘Don’t let the guys that you’ve fought gas you up, you’re against a real one now’.

“When people come in the ring with me, they are confident. After a few rounds their soul is destroyed.

Once I see that, I can take him out.

“We are big boys. We punch heavy. First man to land will be the last man standing.”

Ndidi Hails Leicester’s Europa League Exploit Wilfred Ndidi returned to Leicester City’s starting lineup as they registered a 2-0 home win over AEK Athens in the Europa League on Thursday night.

Manager Brendan Rodgers has been able to include the Nigeria international in his matchday squad for the last three games in all competitions after fully recovering from an adductor injury that required surgery.

That injury forced Ndidi to miss thirteen straight games before making a comeback against Zorya Lugansk on December 3, a game in which he started.

Thanks to first half strikes from Cengiz Under and Harvey Barnes, the Foxes claimed top spot in Group G with 13 points and will therefore be seeded for the round of 32 draw on Monday, December 14.

Ndidi has taken to social media to celebrate Leicester City’s qualification as group winners.

In a two-word reaction posted on Instagram, the number 25 said: “ NEXT ROUND “.

In a premeditated substitution, Ndidi was replaced by Nampalys Mendy in the 63rd minute, four minutes before Kelechi Iheanacho subbed out.

Saturday, December 12, 2020

TR

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& RE A S O

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Price: N250

MISSILE

US on Religious Violence in Nigeria “The US is seeing a lot of religious-tinged violence taking place. You’ve got expanded terrorist activities, you’ve got a lot of it associated around religious affiliations, and the government’s response has been minimal to not happening at all.”

– The United States shedding light on why it added Nigeria to the religious freedom’s blacklist.

PENDULUM DELE MOMODU

dele.momodu@thisdaylive.com

Good Night, the Chicago Boss, Chief Harry Ayoade Akande

F

ellow Nigerians, it is yet another sad week as Nigeria lost another iconic businessman, Chief Harry Ayoade Akande, The Agbaoye of Ibadanland, in the early hours of Saturday, December 5, 2020. On a personal note, the news hit me like thunderbolt. Chief Akande and I shared a very wonderful relationship. He was one of my childhood heroes. I knew of him while I was as young as nine years old but did not meet him until much later in life. I had followed his trajectory and the many myths around him very keenly. He became one of my childhood fantasies, an icon I wished to meet.

I had heard that Chief Harry Akande and the city of Chicago were synonymous with each other, they were like one inviolable and inseparable entity. His fame resonated beyond the seas. He was called “the capo di tutti capi” (the Boss of all Bosses). He was the stuff of legends. His jet set lifestyle stood him out like American movie stars.

He mixed and mingled freely with the rich and famous.

The first time I really witnessed his stupendous Chicago aura was when he once invited me to Chicago about 21 years ago. I saw first-hand his awesome influence in the city, live and direct. As soon as I landed, he had his protocol team waiting to meet me and give me a reception fit for a monarch.

I was soon whisked through immigration and custom formalities and thereafter I met his charming Crown Prince, Olumide Akande who was waiting to receive some of the dignitaries landing from different parts of the world for the big fete his Dad was hosting. Olumide drove me to South Michigan Avenue, where he checked me into The Hilton Hotel, before we headed home to meet his Dad and adorable Mum, Mrs Tolulope Akande, the ageless beauty till this day. Chief Akande was playing host to the Head of State, his good friend, General Abdulsalami Abubakar and some NADECO Chieftains, led by Chief Abraham Adesanya. Chicago was literally on fire...

I was suitably wowed and awed and our relationship blossomed further.

I was a regular visitor to his beautiful Hyde Park Gardens’ mansion in the heart of London West End where we discussed wide ranging subjects from business to politics.

He was extremely passionate about Nigeria and even made fruitless attempts to vie for the presidential race. He was a consummate host who loved to invite friends to lunch or dinner. When not eating at home, he enjoyed taking his guests to Maroush, the popular Lebanese restaurant on Edgware Road, London. He once hosted the television titan, Prince Bisi Olatilo, and I to a sumptuous dinner at the restaurant.

These were some of the memories that flooded back to me as I received the news of his demise with sadness and trepidation.

We had spoken twice this year. He called on both occasions. He was such a humble and personable character who mixed readily with his much younger friends. He was young at heart and this reflected in his sartorial taste, aristocratic fashion and bespoke elegance whenever he was not in his resplendent traditional regalia.

Chief Akande fought many battles at home and abroad. He taught me that if you are

Akande

wealthy and influential, you will always attract powerful enemies, out of jealousy and envy, more often than not.

Our first conversation this year was after he read an article that I wrote in which I mentioned the obstacles he faced while trying to build the first Hilton Hotel at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, after the foundation laying ceremony. I had also mentioned the harrowing experiences of Sam Iwuajoku who finally succeeded in establishing a Curio by Hilton brand hotel, Legend Hilton at the Airport perimeter as part of his building of a formidable business in the aviation sector, against all odds. So, Chief called to thank me, a rarity among many of his peers who only called to fight over reports which their warped minds and associates perceived as negative stories.

Our second and final telephone conversation was less than three months ago. He had actually called on May 16, to congratulate me on my 60th birthday, but I somehow missed his calls. His last call was to tell me he was following my activities on social media and that he was so proud of my creativity. He asked when I will host him at The Penthouse and I said “as soon as COVID allows the world to rest!” I told him how he, and Chief Deinde Fernandez and Chief Oyekunle Alex-Duduyemi had made me fall in love with Penthouses. Little did I realize we were speaking for the last time on planet earth.

Ovation International magazine remains the most important authority on the story of his exciting life, a potpourri of travails and triumphs. Let me give you a glimpse from one of our several covers on the life and times of this great man. This particular story, which was anchored by our Editor, Michael Effiong James, was published in 2003, under the headline, CHICAGO MILLIONAIRE CHIEF HARRY AKANDE GOES INTO SELF EXILE: “For Chief Harry Ayoade Akande, the Agbaoye of Ibadanland, things have fallen apart, they are no longer at ease between him and a country he loves so much.

The brilliant international businessman who is probably the most popular Nigerian in the United States of America, has chosen to go into voluntary exile after the way his

presidential ambition was dramatically truncated by some politicians in Nigeria.

The charming Chicago millionaire, who had lived a jet-set life, is shocked and extremely horrified by the ungentlemanly manner he was dealt with by detractors.

According to impeccable sources, Chief Akande had hoped that politics would be played in Nigeria the way it is played in civilized countries. He knew that if there was one person who could give the incumbent president a run for his office, he was the man. And he was capable and ready. Again, he was banking on the fact that his political party, All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) will pick a man from the same geographical zone to battle the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He was so sure that the election, though, fierce, will be free and fair.

However, before he could even contest, his party had decided to expel him - and against all political calculations, General Muhammadu Buhari ended up as ANPP’s presidential flag bearer. If he thought it was a huge joke, he soon discovered that his enemies were dead serious about going to any length to diminish his soar away profile. For a man who has exhausted his money in promoting democracy and good governance in Nigeria, this was a very bitter pill to swallow.

Most of his contracts in Nigeria were either cancelled or revoked. Even the money owed him by some government agencies were never paid. When he won cases in Court, the relief awarded were never honoured.

The biggest blow was the cancellation of the proposed world-class Hilton Hotel at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. This terrible deed was done after monumental expenses had gone into the foundation and a lavish ground breaking ceremony was held. Indeed, everything that could go wrong, went wrong! And many are wondering why all these should be happening to a man who is well respected

by Nigerians and many celebrities around the world.

Chief Akande’s friends are lamenting that if there is one nan who should be enjoying the dividends of democracy, it should be Chief Harry Ayoade Akande. They mentioned how Chief Akande reconciled the political parties in 1999 when Chief Olu Falae kicked against the election of President Olusegun Obasanjo. According to them, Chief Akande campaigned vigorously to get some angry members of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and ANPP to calm frayed nerves and allow democracy to reign. That singular action showed that this was a true nationalist.

Furthermore, Chief Akande who had openly declared that politics for him was not a matter of life and death is one peace-loving man whose commitment to serving the people had been clearly demonstrated over the years with his widespread philosophy. As a man of independent means, he had gone about his campaign like America’s Ross Perot, in a decent manner. For him, service to his people was all that mattered, but he was dead wrong.

When Ovation saw him recently at his Hyde Park Gardens London home, he said jocularly that he was now in self-exile. He confirmed that though his businesses had gone into ruins in Nigeria for political

reasons, he had decided to leave his fate in the hands of God. He stated “I wish my country well and I wish the President and Commander-inChief the best of luck. I will continue to pursue political ideals, good governance and accountability at all costs. I believe that Nigeria deserves better leadership, which was what I sought to give them. My vision is to build a virile and prosperous Nigeria where the standard of living will rise regularly.”

Chief Akande said he has decided to steer clear of politics and Nigeria, the country of his birth for now. He is hoping to resume active business and projects in some African countries, the Caribbean and the United States.

Born in Ibadan, Western Nigeria on March 3, 1943, to Pa Joseph Afolabi and Chief Mrs Regina Akande, Chief Harry Akande has indeed come a long way. As a student of Olivet Heights in Oyo State, he was not only brilliant in academics, but also excelled in sports.

In 1961, he was admitted to Hampton University, Hampton, Virginia, USA on a scholarship bursary, and graduated with a degree in Accounting and Finance in 1967.

In 1969, Chief Akande got his MBA from North Western University Kellogg’s Graduate School of Management. He became the prestigious school’s first black student.

Like a true patriot, despite getting a fantastic salary as financial consultant in KPMG, Peat Marwick and Standard Oil Corporation, USA, he returned home, to establish AIC Limited. His experience and expertise shone brightly in a few years and he was soon made the first President of the New African Technical and Electrical Company (NAFTEC). NAFTEC became a representative company of GE America, which subsequently executed the major gas turbine electricity projects at Ughelli, Ijora and Delta IV. In 1976, his company in association with Balfour Beatty Engineering of UK was awarded the irrigation studies contract in Bagel-Zungu, Balanga, Kaltango and Katini.

AIC also did the engineering design and supervision of Bauchi Township Water Scheme, Keffi/Akwanga and Doma Water Schemes, Jos Bukuru Water Expansion, Benin City, Warri-Effurun , Northern Ishan, Yola Jimeta, Uyo Metropolitan Water and OyoNorth Water Schemes.

Away from Nigeria, he is associated with the development of the Crystal Place, a 1,000 bedroom hotel in Nassau, Bahamas, Las Quevas Bay Hotel in Trinidad, a marine project in Panama, Aqua Park Resort development in Bahamas, Moruga and at Patrick Water Schemes in Trinidad and Tobago.

In the last ten years, AIC has been involved in projects in excess of $2 billion around the world and his organization is involved in computers, aviation, telecommunications, management and petrochemicals.

The good mixer and excellent dresser, who has been married to Chief (Mrs) Tolulope Akande for the past 29 years, has four children - Olumide, Foluke, Atinuke and Olawunmi...”

Chief Harry Ayoade Akande will be buried in Ibadan on December 23, 2020. May his gentle soul Rest in Peace...

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