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Nigeria to Increase Visa Categories from Six to 79 Clarifies visa-on-arrival policy Dike Onwuamaeze The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is set to expand categories of visas issued to foreign citizens intending to

visit Nigeria from six to 79 classes of visas under the 2020 Visa Policy to be approved by President Muhammadu Buhari. It also clarified that the

Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) policy does not mean that foreigners will enter Nigeria without visa, saying that VoA is actually not a type of visa but a process that qualifies a foreign citizen

on a short visit to have his visa process at the airport. The visa expansion would enable Nigeria to resolve the age-long issue of wrong classifications and validity

of visas granted foreigners coming to Nigeria and reposition the nation’s immigration practice to serve the current needs on integration.

Comptroller-General of the NIS, Mr. Muhammed Babandede, who was the guest speaker at a breakfast Continued on page 10

WHO Declares Coronavirus Global Emergency... Page 8 Friday 31 January, 2020 Vol 25. No 9062. Price: N250

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Ex-leaders’ Wives Reflect on First Lady’s Roles Olusegun Adeniyi in Abuja

CELEBRATING PRODUCTIVITY... L-R: Chairman, First Bank Holdings, Oba Otudeko; Chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc and Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr. Tony Elumelu; President Muhammadu Buhari; Secretary to the Government of Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha; Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige and recipients of the National Productivity Order of Merit Awards, during the visit of the awardees to the president in Abuja… yesterday

It was a day of reminiscences yesterday as seven former first ladies of Nigeria and the current occupant, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, shared experiences at a conference organised in Abuja. The conference was organised by the first daughter of former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, Hajiya Aisha Babangida, in memory of her late mother, Maryam. Professor Uche Azikiwe, Continued on page 10

FG Rallies Support to Tackle Insecurity, Says Challenges Complex, Multi-dimensional Govt: Security threats beyond arms, ammunition or robbery and gangsterism Jonathan expresses concern about poor security Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja The federal government yesterday called for the collaboration of Nigerians with the federal government and its agencies in the fight against the rising wave of insecurity threatening peace and stability in the country.

Briefing journalists at the end of the first Security Council meeting in 2020, presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari in the State House, Abuja, National Security Adviser, (NSA), Major General Babagana Monguno (rtd.), described the security crisis as complex, external,

internal and multi-dimensional. The meeting came a day after the National Assembly had called for the resignation of the service chiefs and on the president to sack them if they fail to heed the call. Both the Senate and the House of Representatives, at their respective plenary on

Wednesday, had decried the spike in the country with the Senate calling on the president to declare a national security emergency. The Senate summoned the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Adamu, to appear before it on Wednesday to brief the legislature on the modus

operandi of the introduction of community policing in the country. Also yesterday, former President Goodluck Jonathan expressed worries over the rising wave of threats to lives and property in the country. Giving further details about yesterday’s Security Council

meeting, Monguno said they appraised the general security situation in the country and took a critical look at the challenges with a view to exploring the avenues of addressing them. He explained that the Continued on page 10

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

WHO Declares Coronavirus Global Emergency Death toll hits 170 as 8,000 cases reported worldwide

Martins IďŹ jeh with agency report The World Health Organisation (WHO) yesterday declared a global emergency on the outbreak of the New Coronavirus, whose eruption first started in the Chinese town of Wuhan. The global health coordinator said the disease now represents a risk beyond China, where the first outbreak occurred last month. Yesterday’s declaration represented a U-turn in WHO’s pronouncement last week to delay such a declaration, a report by the New York Times said. According to WHO, since its pronouncement last week, thousands of new cases in China and clear humanto-human transmission in several other countries, including the United States, warranted a reconsideration of that decision by the agency’s expert committee. The WHO’s declaration — officially called a “public health emergency of international concernâ€? — does not have the force of law. But it serves notice to all United Nations member-states that the world’s top health advisory body thinks the situation is grave. Governments then make their own decisions about whether to close their borders, cancel flights, screen people arriving at airports or take other protective measures. Declaring emergencies also adds urgency to any WHO appeal for money. Thus far, that is hardly relevant: The countries most affected — China, Japan, Germany, South Korea, the United States and Vietnam — can afford to wage their own battles against the virus. By contrast, the Democratic Republic of Congo has needed large infusions of cash and medical expertise to fight an ongoing Ebola outbreak, and the need for money was one of the reasons the WHO declared an international emergency in that case, even though Ebola has not spread outside of

Congo except in a few patients who briefly entered Uganda. Last week, the committee was divided. Declaring emergencies is always a hard decision, said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO’s director general, because closed borders and cancelled flights lead to personal hardships for millions of healthy people near the epicentre and can cause massive economic disruption. In the worst cases, supplies of food and medicine can run short and panic can spread, threatening to do more damage than the disease does. Nigeria has also stepped up efforts to prevent the spread of Coronavirus to the country just as Nigerians on Wednesday took to the social media, calling on the federal government to tighten security at airports as over 300,000 Chinese are bound to arrive the country from China this week. The House of Representatives has also requested the Ministry of Health, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the Quarantine Services, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and other agencies to set up screening centres at the point of entry into the country. Nigerians, who took to the Twitter to warn the Nigerian government over the planned return of Chinese residents in Nigeria into the country from holiday, called for heightened surveillance and checks at the airport to prevent them from importing the virus into the country. Their call, tagged: ‘Hundreds of Chinese� was yesterday afternoon, number one on the trending list on Twitter, with over 42,000 mentions. However, a senior officer of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) told THISDAY on condition of anonymity that the 300,000 figure was an exaggeration. In a statement given to THISDAY on Wednesday, the Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, had said the agency was aware that Chinese nationals were expected back

Buhari Meets Jonathan, Assures Predecessor of Protection Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja For the second time in three months, former President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday visited President Muhammadu Buhari in the State House, Abuja. Jonathan who arrived at 1.45 p.m., was ushered into the president's office and met with his successor behind closed doors for only 16 minutes. At the end of the meeting, the president accompanied his predecessor from his office down to the fore court of the Presidential Villa at 2.01 p.m., where Jonathan boarded his car and left. There was no information about the reason for Jonathan's visit as journalists were not even allowed near

him to ask questions. Jonathan had made a similar visit to Buhari on October 10, 2019 and met with president for only five minutes after which he left hurriedly. However, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the former president was on a “thankyou� visit to the president, who recently consoled him over an attack on his country home, Otuoke, Bayelsa, last December by gunmen. Buhari reassured Jonathan of his safety and security. The president had called his predecessor on the phone, when informed about the attack, to sympathise with him. During the attack, three of the gunmen were killed, while a soldier also died.

into Nigeria following their Lunar New Year holiday, WHO had not placed travel restrictions on anyone. Reacting to the fears over the returning Chinese, the federal government said they would be isolated on arrival for two weeks. It also urged Nigerians to suspend trips to China. Minister of Health, Dr. Osage Ehanire, while briefing State House reporters on Wednesday after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting

in Abuja, said the federal government was compelled to issue the travel advisory to Nigerians and foreigners from affected countries in a bid to prevent the spread of the virus to the country. China has also effectively isolated Hubei Province, stranding more than 30 million people, at the height of the New Year holidays — an act tantamount to quarantining the Midwest at Christmastime. China said on yesterday that another 38 people had died

from the disease, bringing the total to 170. Nearly 8,000 cases have been reported worldwide, almost all of them in mainland China. Yesterday, Russia closed its 2,600-mile border with China and stopped all trains except for one between Moscow and Beijing. Within China, some medical experts have questioned their country’s response, arguing that local officials could have put in place stricter travel restrictions before the virus

spilled beyond the central city of Wuhan. The country has now confirmed cases in every province and region. The WHO has made such declarations just five times since its power to do so was established in 2005: for the pandemic influenza in 2009, a polio resurgence in 2014, the Ebola epidemic in West Africa that same year, the Zika virus outbreak in 2016 and an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo last year.

PARTNERSHIP FORGED IN NATIONAL INTEREST‌ Former President Goodluck Jonathan (left) with the incumbent, President Muhammadu Buhari, during Jonathan's visit to his successor, in Abuja... yesterday

Military Begins Assessment of Internal Operations for Troops’ Withdrawal Vows not to allow Boko Haram foothold in Nigeria Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja The Military High Command has begun a review and assessment of troops deployed for internal security operations ahead of their withdrawal from volatile areas nationwide and in line with the decision of the federal government on the phased withdrawal. THISDAY gathered that the committees saddled with the responsibility of conducting the assessment had been set up by the military, the outcome of which would determine the nature and extent of troops to be withdrawn. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has also declared that no inch of Nigeria’s territory would be ceded again to terrorists in the ongoing war against insurgency. It has also called on the international community to look at issues of money

laundering and drug peddling associated with terror-financing in order to expose the sponsors of Boko Haram and the Islamic State for West African Province (ISWAP). Giving the recent pockets of terrorist attacks in the North-east, the deployment will also see the aircraft carry fresh troops to the theatre of operations to complement the efforts of the troops on ground. The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, had recently announced plans by government to withdraw troops from volatile areas and hand over security to the police as the lead agency in internal security operations. He said the decision followed an initial assessment that showed an overall improvement in the country’s security situation. Responding to pleas from

some governors to suspend the troops withdrawal plan in view of increasing attacks by insurgents, the presidency had reassured them that the withdrawal would not expose states affected by security challenges to danger as it was designed to allow the military focus on its primary duty of defending the nation. The Director, Defence Information (DDI), BrigadierGeneral Onyema Nwachukwu, told THISDAY that the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) had set up committees to conduct an assessment and evaluation of the internal security operations, which would determine the nature of withdrawal. “The decision to withdraw troops is not for now, in any way, affecting our operations in the various theatres considering the fact that there has to be an assessment and there has to be an evaluation. After the assessment and evaluation of those operations based on their

mandates, then we could begin to review all the operations. As it stands today, the assessment has commenced; the evaluation has commenced,� Nwachukwu explained. According to him, the findings of the various committees will inform how the withdrawal will be executed. The defence spokesman stated that presently all internal security operations were ongoing, pending the outcome of the assessment and evaluation, noting that all operations are being intensified and reinvigorated. “As it stands now, no operation has been shut down; troops have not been withdrawn from any operation as we speak. Rather, troops are intensifying and reinvigorating their operations. Continued on page 52

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Anyaoku Insists on Restructuring, Decries Attacks on Judiciary Advocates return to regionalism Sunday Okobi Former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, has reiterated his unswerving stance that the only way out of the present challenges plaguing Nigeria is to restructure the country and possibly return to regional government system. He spoke yesterday in Lagos at the launch of a book “Contemporary Issues in Law and Society� (Legal Essay in Iyizoba’s tribute) and the inauguration of the African Women Forum for Good Governance (AWFG), an initiative of a retired Appeal Court judge, Justice Chinwe Iyizoba. Anyaoku, who lauded Justice Iyizoba as a distinguished lady who had a great and enviable career at the Bar, Bench and the academic environment, also decried what he termed as constant bashing of the judiciary. He called on the executive and the judiciary to guard the integrity and independence of the third arm of government. Speaking on whether Nigeria has the right structure to lead it out of the present state, he said: “I believe that the government structure is sound; but how to operate it is the challenge the country is facing today. We have the structure that can cope with the challenges the country faces- insecurity, climate change, economy – but like I have always said, the present structure of the country is not efficient, and cannot successfully cope with the present challenges the country faces today. “I have been advocating the restructuring of the

architecture of governance of our country. This country was doing a lot better when it was a true federation of four regions - each region coping with its development, security, education and health facilities. We should return to the system because the present structure, in my view, is not likely to lead us to our destination. “Also, I am concerned at the current wave of criticism of our judiciary. I am, however, calling on the judiciary and the executive arms of government to do more to ensure they do

not provide grounds for casting aspersions on the integrity and the independence of the judiciary." On insecurity, he said the present government was going in the right direction by advocating community policing. “I believe that the security challenges we face in this country would be effectively met if the different areas and states in Nigeria were to play more active part in securing the lives and property of their citizens,� he added.

Anyaoku said Justice Iyizoba had a very distinguished career as a university teacher and she was the attorney-general before she went to the Bench. “She has acquainted herself very creditably and she is retiring with a glorious record behind her, so I am very happy to be here. She was also a very active judge, and now as she is going into retirement, she will write books and push her initiative-African Women Forum forward and go a long way with that,� he added. In her remarks, Justice

Iyizoba, who was also celebrating her 70th birthday, said the judiciary was in an excellent shape. She, however, noted that there are a few persons who might have done things to taint the image of the judiciary, “but that does not mean the entire judiciary is bad. They are excellent materials as well as good judges and justices who write judgments that can stand the test of time; so that doesn’t mean we should judge every judge with what

a few of them do.� On the newly-established Africa Women's Forum For Good Governance (AWFG), she described it as not for profit as it will focus on promoting good governance in both public and private sector In his speech, foremost entrepreneur, Mr. Tony Elumelu, represented by a former First Lady of Cross River State, Mrs. Onari Duke, identified the private sector as the engine room of a country's economy and not the government.

HONOURING JUSTICE CHINWE‌ L-R: Retired Court of Appeal judge and celebrant, Justice Chinwe Iyizoba; Chairman, Bi-Courtney Group of Companies, Dr. Wale Babalakin; former Cross of River State First Lady, Mrs. Onari Duke; former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku; ďŹ rst female Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Folake Solanke (SAN) and Justice Olabode Rhodes-Vivour of Supreme Court, at the inauguration of African Women Forum for Good Governance (AWFG) and a book launch to mark Justice Iyizoba’s 70th birthday in Lagos‌ yesterday etop ukutt

Court Orders Arrest of Etete, Two Others over Malabu Oil Deal Grants Adoke N50m bail

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Justice Abubakar Kutigi of an Abuja High Court yesterday ordered the arrest of former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Chief Dan Etete; one Munamuna Seidouugha and Joseph Amaran, over their roles in the $1.09 billion Settlement Agreement on the Oil Prospecting Licence (OPL 245), better known as Malabu oil deal. He gave the order in a ruling on an ex-parte motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The ex-parte application was brought pursuant to Section 3, 35, 36 and 37 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015. Justice Kutigi also granted bail in the sum of N50 million to a former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr.

Mohammed Adoke (SAN), who is on trial for alleged fraud in the Malabu oil deal. Justice Kutigi, in granting the order for the arrest of Etete and others, noted that it was imperative to do so in the interest of justice. The anti-graft agency in an eight-paragraph affidavit, told the court that it needed the order to enable it to arrest and extradite the defendants for prosecution. The commission held that there is prima facie evidence against them. Counsel of the EFCC, Mr. Bala Sanga, who moved the ex-parte motion, told the court that the suspects are currently residing in France and in some Africa countries. He said the suspects were occasionally sighted in different parts of Europe. He prayed the court to issue a warrant of arrest, which

is a pre-condition for their extradition. While also granting bail to Adoke, Justice Kutigi, in addition, admitted to bail in the sum of N50 million and N10 million respectively Mr. Aliu Abubakar and Mr. Rasky Gbinigie, who are second and third defendants in the alleged fraud trial by the federal government. The other defendants are: Malabu Oil and Gas Limited, Nigeria Agip Exploration Limited, Shell Ultra Deep Limited and Shell Nigeria Exploration Production Limited. Justice Kutigi, while delivering ruling in the defendants’ individual bail applications, also ordered them to provide a surety each in like sum to their individual bail. The sureties, who must be responsible citizens of Nigeria, must reside within

the jurisdiction of the court. They must be owners of verifiable property in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and also show evidence of tax payment in the last three years. In addition, the sureties are to sign an undertaking that the defendants will always be in court at every proceedings of the trial, while the defendants on their part are to undertake that they will not jump bail nor interfere with the trial. The defendants were also ordered to submit their international passports to the court and cannot travel without the court's permission. Justice Kutigi held that any default in the bail terms either by the sureties or defendants will automatically lead to the revocation of the bail. He subsequently adjourned till March 27 for commencement of trial. Adoke and his co-

defendants were last Thursday arraigned before Justice Kutigi on a 42-count charge of fraud and criminal breach of trust amongst others. In the charge with number CR/151/2020, the federal government alleged that Adoke and other respondents received gratification to carry out a fraudulent oil deal. Adoke was alleged to have in August 2013 in Abuja while serving as a minister knowingly received United States dollars equivalent of N300 million, which is reasonably suspected of having been unlawfully obtained and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 319A of the Penal Code, Cap. 532 laws of the federation of Nigeria 1990. Another defendant, Rasky Gbinigie, was accused of conspiring with one Munamuna Seidougha (at

large), Amaran Joseph (at large) and Dauzia Etete (at large), in 2013 in Abuja to dishonestly used as genuine the forged form CAC 7 and board resolution of Malabu Oil and Gas Limited and the letter of resignation of one Mohammed Sani to open a bank account to receive $401,540,000. However, they pleaded not guilty to all the charges. Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) and Mr. George Ikoli (SAN), counsel to the first, second and third defendants respectively, urged the court to admit their clients to bail because the alleged offences they are accused of are bailable. However, Sanga urged the court to deny the defendants bail because they are all flight risk and it took the prosecution a great deal of time to bring them to court for arraignment.

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PAGE TEN NIGERIA TO INCREASE VISA CATEGORIES FROM SIX TO 79 meeting of the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce, unfolded the visa category expansion plan yesterday in Lagos. He spoke on the topic: “The True Situation of Immigration Service in Nigeria Today and Prospects for The Future�. Babandede said Nigeria’s Visa 2020 Policy comprised three broad categories, which are the Short Visit Visas (SVV), Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and Permanent Resident Visa (PRV). He said: “It is proposed that we will have 79 classes of visa. There will be visa for Nigerians in diaspora. It will introduce visitors’ visa. It will enable Nigeria to issue up to five-year multiple visas to citizens of those countries that offer Nigerians such multiple-year visas. There are visas for foreign citizens who worked and retired in Nigeria and those who worked and retired outside the country but desired to settle in Nigeria. It is a very kind of innovation, which seeks to address any need foreigners have for visiting Nigeria. “The current business visa is going to be unbundled into more than 30 categories of visas. The aim is to align our visa processes to federal

government’s policies and contribute to the attainment of Economic Recovery and Growth Plan.� He identified the vision of the NIS as supporting people coming to do business in the country in a manner that does not jeopardise Nigeria’s national security. According to him, some of the features of the 2020 Visa Policy include the granting of social visas to visitors desiring to visit Nigeria for religious purposes, sports events and others that need to visit their family members who are residing in Nigeria. The new visa policy would also accommodate education visa for those desiring to study in Nigeria. “Our visa categories were mainly for those on business visit without catering for those on tourism and social visits. It means there is need for visas to address their needs and resolve wrong classification of visas, issues on validity of visa and eradicate poor use of discretions in issuing certain categories of visas,� Babandede added. He explained that the new policy would address the problem of interchangeable use of passports for single return journey by Nigerians

abroad with dual nationalities but visiting Nigeria without visa on their passports. “This distorts people’s travel histories. We expect to see visa in every passport coming to Nigeria which they do not have. So, we decided to create a class of visa for this class of Nigerians,� he added. The NIS boss, who was represented by Comptroller of Immigration, Mr. Kunle Osisanya, said the policy also created a legal and official basis for Nigeria to reciprocate the issuance of multiple-year visas some countries grant to Nigerians. “In the past, we rely on discretion that had no legal backing as the current law permits a maximum of 90 days visa. “We are introducing social visits visa for those that want to visit their family members in Nigeria. Previously, there was no visa category for family members of expatriates in Nigeria to visit them. We are now addressing it. This visa will now enable family and friends to come. “Also, clergies, journalists, sportsmen visiting Nigeria will now have suitable visas instead of using business visa. Now there will be a suitable

visa for you no matter what kind of visit you want. “Also, those Nigerians who normally travel abroad to have babies will now have the right kind of visa for their babies. They can apply for visa on arrival for these babies without going to Nigerian embassies in the country they delivered their babies. “Similarly, Nigerians by birth who renounced their Nigerian citizenship because the countries they live do not allow dual citizenship will be issued with an indefinite resident and multiple visa to enable them visit Nigeria whenever they wished. Their spouses will be able to benefit from this also,� he said. Also, investors with substantial capital importation to the country would be granted resident visa as long as the capital is in Nigeria. The aim is to woo potential investors to come to Nigeria and the policy would also be used to attract highly skilled manpower to Nigeria, Babandede stated. The new policy would also grant retired persons that worked in public service as teachers etc., permanent resident to save them from the shame of becoming prohibited immigrants after they have

served the country for a long time. “This visa will enable them to remain in Nigeria if they do not desire Nigerian citizenship. Same goes investors and businessmen who have stayed many years in Nigeria. These are people that start repatriating their money when they are approaching retirement,� he explained.

ClariďŹ es Visa-on-arrival Policy Meanwhile, the comptroller general has also clarified that the Visa-on-arrival (VoA) policy does not mean that foreigners will enter Nigeria without visa. “The VoA is actually not a type of visa. It is a process that qualifies a foreign citizen on a short visit to have his visa process at the airport. “The VoA was for citizens of African Union countries to promote trade and continental integration and facilitate the implementation of African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). “Sometime last year there was a lot of controversy over VoA, which people misconstrued as visa free entry into the country. The

president never said that. What the president announced was VoA for citizens of African Union countries and holders of African Union passports. It is not for Africans who are not carrying AU’s passports. This is for citizens of AU countries. The initiative is from AU as measures to promote integration and trade in Africa. It will also aid AfCFTA. “For those of you who are planning to float an airline, this VoA policy is capable turning Nigeria into an aviation hub in Africa like what we have in Ethiopia. Also for those who want to arrange tourism packages this policy will present a good opportunity,� Babandede said. According to him, the ravaging Coronavirus is an issue of concern to NIS. “Remember we are the first line. However this is a professional area. Medical issues are not within our area of competence. We rely on advice from the Federal Ministry of Health through the National Port Health Services. Once they advise us that we need to take measures, just as it happened at the height of Ebola, I will assure all Nigerians that the NIS will be equal to the task,� he explained.

FG RALLIES SUPPORT TO TACKLE INSECURITY, SAYS CHALLENGES COMPLEX, MULTI-DIMENSIONAL meeting resolved that in view of the complexities of the country's security crisis, the collaboration of Nigerians with the federal government was necessary in the overall efforts to comprehensively combat insecurity. According to him, given the trend of the security challenges, every citizen needs to understand the necessity for all and sundry to work together to deal with the problem. He added that the meeting explored various ways of tackling security challenges facing the country, adding that the modus operandi will be spelt out after consultations with all critical stakeholders. Monguno said: "The meeting basically made an appraisal of the current security situation in the country and took a look at the possibilities of the opportunities available to government in addressing most of the recent challenges. There were discussions, and at the end of the day, the most important thing that

we came up with is the need for collaboration both between governmental agencies and the larger Nigerian society because of the type of the insurgencies we are faced with, the complexities, the multiplicity of all kinds of issues. "There is a need for both parties - governmental agencies on one hand and the larger society to collaborate more vigorously. There is a need for us to deal with these problems in a comprehensive manner. Therefore, council had decided to take a closer look at issues that will help us not just at the federal level or at the state level, but right down to the local government level. But this is going to be done after due consultations with the relevant stakeholders." Asked to describe the nature of challenges confronting security operatives, Monguno said they were not only multidimensional, but also external, internal and defence-related. He said the nature of security

challenges confronting the world in the 21st century were beyond the use of arms and ammunition or robbery and gangsterism. Rather, they will only take the decision of everyone working with various departments and agencies of government to prescribe solutions to the menace. "The major challenges are multidimensional. In terms of security, challenges are both internal, external and defencerelated as well as diplomatic as well as economic. So, you will begin to appreciate the extent to which we need to work. These major challenges, every ministry, department and agency is aware of the aspect it has to deal with. "The issue of security in the context of the 21st Century is not an issue of just arms and ammunition or robbers and gangsters. It's a multiple situation. The canvass is very very expensive and we are looking at it in a comprehensive manner.

"The challenges, all of us are aware of, and that is why in a nutshell, I said there is a need for this government and the larger society to work together to find a solution to this problem. No one is oblivious of the enormity of the problem at hand. Government is aware and that is why we had this meeting at the highest level," he added. Asked if the call on Wednesday by the National Assembly for the sacking of service chiefs was considered in the meeting, Monguno said such matter did not come up for discussion. He also said the call for the declaration of emergency over the country's security situation by the federal legislature was also not discussed. Present at the security meeting were Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin; Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai; Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas and Chief of Air

Staff, Air Marshal Abubakar Sadique. Others were Inspector General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Adamu; Minister of Police Affairs, Mr. Abubakar Dingyadi and Minister of Interior, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, among others.

normally do but he didn’t until around noon when he called to break the news of General Abacha’s death,� she added. Mrs. Abubakar said after the expression of grief, her husband told her to come straight to Abuja to commiserate with Mrs. Abacha. “By the time I got to Abuja, they had already left for Kano. And then the appointment came that night. It was difficult to explain my emotions. We were looking forward to my husband’s retirement, not such appointment. I felt what can be described as the fear of the unknown. It was a difficult moment,� she said. Uche, wife of the defunct First Republic President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, who eulogised the late Mrs. Babangida as the woman who brought the office of first lady to limelight, said there was gender bias within the Nigerian society. “If a woman is confident, the society will say ‘she is too forward’. They will blame the husband. Women are seen as partners for social functions. Maryam broke that tradition. She was a first lady who was seen and heard,� said Mrs. Azikiwe who added that

children must be brought up to understand the equality of genders. Asked how she felt when she became first lady, Turai, widow of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, said she was not excited. “I had been the first lady in Katsina for eight years and just when I thought I was going to have my husband (to myself), it was like he was taken from me again. I was not excited and there is nothing to be excited about in being a first lady,� she said. Patience, wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who received the highest ovation at the event, paid tributes to Mrs. Yar’Adua and the late Mrs. Babangida whom she described as her mentor. She also recalled the turbulent period her husband was acting president following the illness of Yar’Adua and Jonathan’s eventual ascension to the presidency. Victoria, widow of Nigeria’s first military leader, the late Lt. Gen. Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, the oldest woman at the event, was the most exciting as she sang and shared jokes that left the audience reeling with laughter.

Jonathan Expresses Worries over Insecurity Also yesterday, Jonathan expressed worries that so many people are increasingly being killed, kidnapped or become victims of other violent crimes in Nigeria. He told members of the executive of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) who visited him in Abuja to commiserate with him over the December 24, 2019 attack on his country home in Otuoke in Bayelsa State, that the killing of a soldier in the Christmas eve attack was condemnable. He said: “I thank you for

coming to sympathise with me and my family. The fact that a soldier lost his life in that attack traumatised me. That young man wouldn’t have died the way he did if he was not protecting me. “Whenever people come to me, just as you people have come, to talk about that attack, I feel worried about the general society. Whenever I consider that people could do that to a former president who has reasonable security guarding him, my mind reaches out to the rest of Nigerians who do not have that level of protection. I am worried that so many people are becoming victims of sporadic shootings, kidnappings and so on. I believe that the country will get over the kind of insecurity it currently faces.� Speaking earlier, NANS President, Mr. Danielson Akpan, had said they came to sympathise with the former president over the attack in his house and to thank him for his legacies in the education sector.

EX-LEADERS’ WIVES REFLECT ON FIRST LADY’S ROLES Mrs. Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi, Mrs. Victoria Gowon, Mrs. Ajoke Murtala Muhammed, Justice Fati Abubakar, Mrs. Turai Yar’Adua and Mrs. Patience Jonathan joined the incumbent first lady, who was accompanied by Dolapo, wife of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, to eulogise the late Mrs. Babangida whom they all recognised as the woman who gave the office of the First Lady both visibility and purpose. They also spoke on the role of the first lady. Most presidents or heads of state, according to Mrs. Muhammed, widow of former Head of State, the late General Murtala Muhammed, are isolated and “only the first lady can feel the pulse and help address the situation. A first lady is that all important third arm, third leg, third eye and third ear of her husband.� Mrs. Muhammed, who reeled out what can best be described as manuals for the office, said: “Before you step out to do your own thing, you must gauge your husband’s moods and other related emotions. How is he fairing? How is his appetite? Before a big day, you must never distract him; you must help him focus

on his assignment of leading his nation well and delivering on his mandate.� On the temperament of the office, Mrs. Muhammed said: “A first lady must work quietly alongside her husband, helping him in any way she can to make his day bearable. Be ready to celebrate his triumphs quietly with him when things go well and when they do not go well, be ready to take the knocks and be a good comforter. “She should be seen always and heard sometimes or once in a while but not too loudly. A first lady is the unseen hand, advisor and support to her husband to enable him to succeed. A good first lady understands that she is not in competition with her husband but should complement him and enhance his stewardship.� Paying tribute to the late Mrs. Babangida, Mrs. Muhammed said the manner she brought up her children is worthy of emulation. “She raised them to be respectful, quiet and humble,� adding that Aisha has become “a woman who cares about people, a child who cherishes her mother’s legacy and will not allow it to die.�

In her own contribution, Mrs. Gowon, wife of General Yakubu Gowon, said as first lady, she had no office and saw herself basically as “Mrs. Gowon� while recalling the civil war era and the challenges of the period. “What I planned for was life in the barracks but I never had it. As far as I was concerned, I was getting married to a soldier and as first lady, our living room was my office. I saw myself as a support for whatever he was doing,� she stated. She said because she was young at the time, she had to depend on the wives of respected officers to teach her “but I was also prepared to learn. Besides, I was just a companion for my husband in a period of war.� Recalling how she became the first lady, Justice Abubakar, wife of former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, said on June 7, 1998, she had travelled to Adesoye College in Offa, Kwara State, to visit her son and returned very tired; so she was not in court the next day. “I expected my husband to call in the morning as he would

Babangida’s speech was shown on video before the session started.

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FRIDAY JANUARY 31, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

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NEWS

Drama as US Embassy Denies Bishop Oyedepo Visa Olawale Olaleye A mild drama, yesterday, played out at the Lagos office of the Embassy of the United States as the founder of Faith Tabernacle in Ota, Ogun State and Living Faith Church Worldwide, otherwise known as Winners’ Chapel International, Bishop David Oyedepo was denied visa. But an ace comedian, Abovi Ugboma, popularly known as Bovi was lucky with the embassy as he was issued the visa. However, his wife, Kris Asimonye, was not as lucky as she was denied the travelling

document. THISDAHY gathered that the embassy did not give any other reason except the standard default explanation that the Bishop did not qualify for visa renewal in its assessment and urged him to try again. Heaven was, however, let loose, when the obviously flustered preacher and businessman, created scene whilst querying the grounds for his refusal. Insider said he told the embassy he had been traveling to the states as far back as 1980s and had not violated any rules or committed any crime to have warranted being

denied a renewal of his visa. According to the source, he immediately sent for his bodyguards to get his phones so he could make some calls, but the embassy allegedly told him he could not make calls within the precincts of the visa-issuing section of the embassy. When THISDAY contacted the embassy for clarifications on why the popular Bishop was denied visa, a staff of the embassy in the media department, requested that

an email be sent with the questions and promised to respond as soon as possible. Curiously, the embassy, believed to be swift to responding to mails, neither acknowledged nor responded to the email sent since 5.05p.m. yesterday till the newspaper went to bed. Embassy sources however hinted of the possibility that the popular preacher might have made some calls to individuals that would intervene on his behalf

and the visa eventually issued. In the mail sent by THISDAY, three questions were asked: “One, we understand that there was serious drama earlier today, when Bishop David Oyedepo was denied the US visa. However, because we could verify our facts from other applicants at the embassy today, our question, therefore, is on what grounds was a Bishop Oyedepo, known across the globe, denied a visa? “Our sources in-house had also

hinted that given his connection, the CG might likely be contacted and his visa might be issued eventually through a referral. If that’s true, why deny him in the first place? “We also learnt that the trend of denying prominent Nigerians visa is rampant now, including the Abuja embassy. Is it part of plans to clampdown on Nigerians of a certain category and social status and on what basis?”

Senate Urges Buhari to Obey Court Order on FCT Ministerial Appointment Chuks Okocha and Deji Elumoye in Abuja The Senate yesterday called in President Muhammadu Buhari to obey the judgment of the Appeal Court on the constitutional requirement in appointing an indigene of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT ) as a member of the Federal Executive Council (FEC). The Senate said that this would be in line with the constitutional provisions that a minister be appointed from all the 36 states of the country and the FCT. The Court of Appeal in Abuja had on the basis of a suit brought before it by concerned indigenes of FCT on the need for an indigene of the FCT to be among the serving ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria , ruled that the President should appoint an indigene of the FCT. Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda representing FCT senatorial district had yesterday submitted a petition from an indigene of the territory, Mr Ezekiel .D. Musa, against the refusal of President Buhari to appoint anybody from the area as minister . The Petition was subsequently considered by the Senate and

forwarded to the Committee on Ethics , Privileges and Public Petition for necessary legislative action. The committee in its report submitted by Senator Ayo Akinyelure ( PDP Ondo Central), recommended that based on the decisions of the Court of Appeal Abuja and the Constitutional provisions of sections 299 and 147(3) , indigenes of FCT be granted approval by the President to be represented in the Federal Executive Council as Minister . In approving the recommendation after exhaustive debate by Senators , the Senate through an amended prayer , resolved that “Senate notes the ruling of the Court of Appeal Abuja in respect of appointment of a Minister from the Federal Capital Territory and refer same to the Executive for consideration”. The Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe ( PDP Abia South), in his contribution at the plenary said that the Senate by the resolution has put on hold appointment of anybody from FCT as minister but the President of the Senate , Dr. Ahmad Lawan quickly interjected to say that it not represent the issues at hand.

Court Sentences Three to Death by Hanging in Osun for Bank Robbery Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Justice Jide Falola of Osun State High Court in Ikirun, Osogbo State, yesterday sentenced three men to death by hanging for bank robbery. Delivering judgment, Justice Falola held that the prosecution counsel proved his case against the convicts, Mr. Nuhu Jimoh, Mr. Ndubuisi David and Mr. Aderibigbe Oluwasenu beyond reasonable doubt. The judge said the gun recovered from the convicts during the bank robbery be forfeited to the Nigeria Police, while the money recovered from them be forfeited to Osun State Government. The convicts were first

arraigned on June 29, 2017, on 10- count charge of conspiracy, armed robbery, murder, illegal possession of firearms and others. The state counsel, Mr. Biodun Badiora said the offences were contrary to Section 6(b), 1(1) & (2) (a) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Cap R11 L.F.N, 2004, Section 319 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 34 Laws of Osun State, 2002, and Section 3 of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Cap R11 L.F.N, 2004, respectively. Badiora told the court that the convicts on February 12, 2016 at about 3.30 p.m, in a coordinated bank robbery, attacked First Bank, Union Bank and Skye Bank, situated along the same street in Ikirun, simultaneously.

SECURITY ON THEIR MINDS…

L –R : National Security Adviser, Major General Babagana Monguno (rtd); Minister of Interior , Mr. Rauf Aregbesola; Minister of Police Affairs , Mr. Muhammadu Dingyadi; and Inspector General of Police , Mr. Mohammed Adamu, at the first National Security Council meeting at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja …yesterday GODWIN OMOIGUI

Senate Okays Obiora as CBN Deputy Governor Deji Elumoye and Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Senate yesterday confirmed the nomination of Dr. Kingsley Obiora as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). It also approved an 18man board for the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) while a new senator took his oath of office. The confirmation of Obiora was sequel to the adoption of the report of the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions read at plenary by its Chairman, Senator Uba Sani, which recommended the confirmation of the nominee. The Senate thereafter dissolved

into the Committee of the Whole to consider the report and eventually confirmed Obiora as CBN deputy governor. President Muhammadu Buhari, in a letter dated January 16, 2020 addressed to Senate President, Dr Ahmad Lawan, and read at plenary on January 28, had requested the confirmation of Obiora for the position. The president in the twoparagraph letter, said: “In accordance with the provisions of Section 8(1)(2) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) (Establishment) Act 2007, I have the pleasure to present Dr. Kingsley Isitua Obiora for confirmation as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.”

Obiora upon invitation appeared on Wednesday before the Senate committee, which after screening, considered him fit for appointment as CBN deputy governor and so recommended him to the Senate for confirmation. The Senate also yesterday confirmed the appointment of Sikiru Hassan as Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). Seventeen other nominees for the board of the commission were also confirmed by the upper chamber following the consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, headed by Senator Adamu Bulkachuwa, that recommended the nominees for confirmation.

The confirmed board nominees include Abdullahi Magaji Hardawa from Bauchi State as Executive Commissioner - Operation, Inspection and Licensing; Nura Hassan Yakasai from Kano State as Executive Commissioner - Policy, Personnel Management and Finance and Sheikh Momoh Suleman Imonikhe from Edo State as Executive Commissioner Planning , Research, Statistics, Information and Library. Other nominees to serve as part-time members are Mrs Halimat Jibril from Niger State, Abba Jatto from Borno State, Garba Umar from Sokoto State and Ibrahim Ogbonnia Amah from Ebonyi State .

House to Summon IG, NSCDC Boss over Extra-judicial Killings Adedayo Akinwale and Udora Orizu in Abuja The House of Representatives has passed a resolution to invite the Inspector General of Police (IG), Mr. Mohammed Adamu and the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Mr. Abdullahi Gana Muhammadu. The resolution of the House was reached following a motion

by the Deputy Majority Whip, Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha on the need to investigate the spate of accidental discharge by security personnel and to forestall the killing of innocent Nigerians due to mishandling of firearms. The motion was seconded by Hon. Linda Ikpeazu. Onyejeocha urged the House to direct the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to ensure adequate sensitisation of their

personnel to stop using lethal force as the first point of action. The lawmakers also invited the Commandant General of the NSCDC. This is due to the killing of a senatorial candidate of AA in Imo State, Mr. Ndubuisi Emenike by NSCDC personnel in what was described as an “accidental discharge.” Another lawmaker, Mrs. Mariam Onuoha expressed

sadness over the death of Emenike who according to her was killed in the vicinity during the celebration of her rerun. She called on the House to investigate if the officer was in breach of rules of engagement. The motion was voted and adopted. No date has however been set for the meeting with the IG. The lawmakers then vowed to investigate the matter further.

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FRIDAY JANUARY 31, 2020 •T H I S D AY

FRIDAY JANUARY 31, 2020 • T H I S D AY

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T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ ÍąÍŻËœ 2020

COMMENT

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

THE DOCTORS’ EXODUS

The authorities should step up eorts to stem the brain drain, writes Cosmas Odoemena

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t’s no longer news that Nigerian doctors are leaving the country in droves for greener pastures. According to the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), of the 75,000 Nigerian doctors registered with NMA, more than 33,000 have left the country, leaving 42,000 to take care of more than 200 million people. It’s not only doctors that are leaving; nurses, physiotherapists, radiographers, pharmacists, medical laboratory scientists, etc. Brain drain among doctors is not a new phenomenon. In Nigeria it has been ongoing for years. But it has never jolted the Nigerian healthcare system as it has now. This is because the number of doctors leaving has risen astronomically. Doctors are voting with their feet. Specialists, medical officers, retired doctors and others fresh from medical schools are all leaving. In final year medical school classes migrating abroad after qualifying is what is trending. Furthermore, the number of those writing postgraduate exams to specialize is reducing and those who manage to start abandon it along the way to start afresh abroad. Every year at least 2,000 doctors leave Nigeria for the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Europe, United Arab Amirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, South Africa, Ghana, and some obscure countries. The doctors who are abroad constantly pressure their colleagues who have stayed back to join them. Even when those in Nigeria remain resolute the ones abroad will not give up. Some abroad query the mental status of their colleagues still in Nigeria. They test their resolve to stay and salvage it. They remind them of the poor working conditions, low wages, insecurity, poverty in the land, and general despondency. But one question that melts those remaining in Nigeria is: “Have you thought of the future of your children?� They tell you where they are their children are attending good schools, all taken care of by government. Government gives them allowance per child. And whenever these children graduate from the universities there are jobs. They conclude, “ It’s not about us, it’s about the children�. Still some, with a heavy heart, stay back giving themselves unrealistic time for things to change. If the endless wait for things to “change� has not nudged those doctors back home to nibble at the emigration bait, another thing has. The shortage of doctors is putting a lot of work pressure on the few doctors, with the attendant burnout, stress and other deleterious effect on their health. And when they have had enough they throw in the towel. The effect on the healthcare system is unquantifiable. What has helped some states is private hospitals which not everyone can afford. But even now the private hospitals are also feeling the pinch. With private hospitals there is a high doctor turnover. Where the medical director cannot get a doctor to work for him he works round the clock. It is taking a toll on many an MD’s health. Some have closed their private hospitals to relocate abroad. While all this is on, quacks and charlatans fill the gap. No wonder Nigeria’s health indices have continually been abysmal.

ACCORDING TO THE NIGERIAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, OF THE 75,000 NIGERIAN DOCTORS REGISTERED, MORE THAN 33,000 HAVE LEFT THE COUNTRY

It’s either government is playing the ostrich or it is perplexed and does not know what to do. India once experienced it but its government took the bull by the horns and today its healthcare system is not only one of the best in the world it is a foreign exchange earner in medical tourism. It is this same Nigeria only a few years ago where Nigerians left abroad to come back home to take up higher paying jobs in the banking sector, telecoms, human relations, oil and gas and other great startups. Deep inside, Nigerians abroad know there is no place like home. They would readily stay back if the conditions were right. Every problem has a solution if government is ready to head off a looming collapse of the healthcare system. The first thing to do is declare a state of emergency in the health sector. Convene a summit involving stakeholders. There should be a health sector Marshall Plan. It must be said that as long as doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers are still under government health ministries like civil servants their wages will remain low compared to those abroad. A new entity called Nigeria Healthcare Workforce Agency (NHWA) should be created to take care of recruitment and remuneration of doctors and other allied healthcare workers. Each state and the federal capital territory should have theirs and it should be backed by law. It will have a special budget. In addition, the budgetary allocation to health has to increase. The six percent in almost two decades is a far cry from the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommendation of at least 15 per cent. To show that government is not serious, in the 2020 budget it is even a paltry 4.14 per cent that hardly inspires confidence. Government at all levels must rank health as number one priority before security. Now, Nigerian doctors retire at 60 to go abroad to continue to work, where there is no age or sex discrimination. Government must as a matter of urgency consider increasing the retirement age of doctors to 70 years. And ditto for allied professionals. And when they retire they should earn their full salary until death as it is done for Nigerian professors. Children of doctors and allied workers can be sponsored from kindergarten to secondary school and possibly up to university level. In addition, paid overseas annual vacation for doctors and their families as it is done especially in the Middle East. This will demystify going abroad. Then make good the overseas attachment for resident doctors. Interest free loans as India did for their doctors. Special housing and car loans where government pays a reasonable part of it. If political office holders in Nigeria are better paid than their counterparts in other climes then there is a moral justification to pay Nigerian doctors what they will get abroad. This is in addition to well-equipped hospitals with a conducive atmosphere. Whatever it will take to heal our sickly healthcare system must be done. And must be done quickly too. r0EPFNFOB NFEJDBM QSBDUJUJPOFS XSPUF GSPN -BHPT

MOHAMMED NAMI AND THE TAX EVADERS Oluwole Osagie – Jacobs urges the FIRS chief executive to go after tax defaulters

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here is no doubt that one of the right steps this government has taken is the appointment of Alhaji Mohammed Nami, a thorough-bred tax professional, as the Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service. One of the strictures against good performance of those holding public office in Nigeria is inappropriate appointment. This is worse in political dispensations where appointments are motivated by political considerations. Nami’s appointment is a departure from the norm. It is an indication that a divine spirit is at work. For those who don’t know him I am pleased to announce to you that he is a tax field Commanding Officer with many years of tax and accountancy practice behind him. Nami was baked in the crucible of Pannell Kerr Forster, a British firm renowned for accountancy and tax practice. His penchant for detail and accuracy is rarefied, and this will significantly enhance his performance. It is heartening that in his first few weeks in office he has instituted deep reforms that would reposition the Service for better service delivery. In addition, we must thank Mr. President for the ongoing tax reforms. While appreciating the contributions of the executive chairman’s predecessors in office, we cannot run away from the fact that the FIRS, as it is today, is louder than its worth. We hear of humongous tax collection that is not benchmarked against potential. Annual increase in tax revenue is hailed and celebrated as if population and needs had remained static. It is not discounted with the rate of inflation, foreign exchange, cost of collection and the number of personnel involved in revenue collection. The world is moving on in a frantic pace and technology has sired electric cars which would, in few years, discount in a significant manner the value of our major source of income which is crude oil. Nigeria needs money to build critical infrastructure for a healthy economy. It is for this reason we need someone who would drive revenue collection with the zeal of a Jehovah’s Witness. In the year 2019, Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt,

Algeria, and Angola in that order were the largest economies in Africa, but in terms of nominal GDP per capita, Nigeria was ranked 17th. In Asia, we have robust economies of countries called the Asian tigers. Africa can now boast of African leopards (African Amotekuns) in countries like Rwanda, Botswana and Ghana with economies charging forward with the agility of a leopard. Nigeria must move with the times or perish. You cannot hope to increase tax revenue in a country where manufacturing is dead or on life support. The kernel of this article is to examine how Nami is going to supplant the mountain of challenges before him. It is common knowledge Nigerians resent tax and that they pay tax only when it is unavoidable. In 1983, Miss Price, a Briton and co lecturer with me in Port Harcourt, told some of our colleagues she was going to bank to remit her tax to Britain. This was to the amazement of many who thought she needed a medical attention. She had to explain to them that she had an obligation to contribute to sustain the good governance in her country. For good measure, she said, that was why things work in Britain. Sometimes Nigerians reject things that would be to their benefit. Most Nigerians would not use the seat belt or adopt family planning unless they are compelled to do so. Is it such people you would tell they would derive benefit from paying tax? This passivism towards tax payment is accentuated by the poor and skewed reward system in the society due to bad governance. Alh. Nami must grapple with the many intriguing complexities and ambiguities in tax legislation that makes tax administration and compliance very daunting. These can be gleaned from the following judicial pronouncements; “No man in the country is under the smallest obligation, moral or other, so to arrange his legal relations to his business or property as to enable the Inland Revenue to put the largest possible shovel in his stores. The Inland Revenue is not slow, and quite rightly, to take every advantage which is open to it under the Taxing Statutes for the purposes of depleting the taxpayer’s pocket. And the taxpayer is in like manner

entitled to be astute to prevent, so far as he honestly can, the depletion of his means by the Inland Revenue�. Lord Clyde (1929) “If a man were to make a systematic business of receiving stolen goods, and to do nothing else, and he hereby systematically carried on a business and made a profit of 2,000 pounds a year, the Income Tax Commissioners would be quite right in assessing him as if it were in fact his vocation.� Partridge Vs Mallandaine, High Court of Justice (Queen’s Bench Division), 1885. “It is, in my opinion, absurd to suppose that honest gains are charged to tax and dishonest gains escape. To hold otherwise would involve a plain breach of the rules of the statute, which require the full amount of the profits to be taxed and merely put a premium on dishonest trading. The burglar and the swindler, who carry on a trade or business for profit are as liable to tax as an honest business man, and, in addition they get their deserts elsewhere.� Lord Morrison. Lord Clyde had laid bare the distinction between tax avoidance and tax evasion in his highly celebrated judgment. Tax avoidance is not a crime. A tax payer can avoid tax by arranging his financial records in a way as to make him pay as little tax as possible. Tax evasion is a crime. This is illegal avoidance of tax by hiding taxable income or claiming unauthorized deductions. It is apparent that the war between the tax man and the tax payer is the one of wits. Tax on dishonest gains is an indication that there is no morality in tax business. It is the tax evaders Alh. Nami should go after. In this era of voluntary tax compliance through self-assessment he should go after tax defaulters. Thank God his first name is Mohammed, he should move to the mountain if the mountain refuses to move to him. I attended the Pannell Kerr Forster training school in 1988 where I watched more than 10 video clips on tax collection in Britain. A man who was apprehended by tax officers was taken aback by the detailed knowledge of the officers of his affairs. They knew he plays golf and had record of his annual subscription at the golf club. They knew he smokes and drinks. They knew the number of his children and his type of abode. Since he was not

up to date with his tax returns he was given a Best of Judgment Assessment. In developed countries, it is difficult to be off the radar of the eagle eyes of the tax man. In Nigeria, you can have more than 30 houses in Lagos which you put up for rent and yet pay no personal income tax. There are many secondary schools in our cities where parents pay up two million naira per annum as fees for a single student. In Lagos alone, there are more than one hundred of such schools. Most of these parents pay the fees conveniently and cap it with end of year overseas holiday trip for the family. It is infuriating that many of these parents pay less personal income tax than a level 8 Nigerian civil servant. Isn’t this absurd? The states which are the recipients of Personal Income Tax are thus deprived of revenue. There are billionaire traders in Ariaria market, Aba, Bridge head market, Onitsha and Alaba market, Lagos, carrying on business as limited companies who do not prepare accounts for tax purpose. The few who do, declare next to nothing as taxable income. And against such it appears there is no law. In the December 10, 2001, edition of THISDAY Newspaper, I queried the published financial statement of a foremost construction company in Nigeria. For the financial year 2000 it declared a turnover of N22.75 billion and a profit before tax ofN768.23 million. This result was declared free from queries from shareholders and tax authorities. It is common knowledge that the contract price is the sum of the estimated total cost of contract and the estimated profit. One advantage of construction contract is that variations in the cost of direct materials are accommodated in the final contract price. The accounting standard in this regard says; “Claims and variations arise in long term contracts due to changes in design, base prices or completion time. When these are subsequently agreed to by the contracted, they are recognized as part of the revenue derived from the contract.� This privilege is hardly enjoyed by trading concerns. r0TBHJF m +BDPCT '$" XSPUF GSPN ,VCXB "CVKB

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020

EDITORIAL

A SPIKE IN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE All the stakeholders could do more to contain the violence

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n Monday, the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory convicted Ms Maryam Sanda for the murder of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, and sentenced her to death by hanging. It was a sad end to a tragic story of domestic violence that is now very prevalent in our country. That is why the decision by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to hold a public hearing and investigation into cases of sexual-based violence in the country should be commended. From physical and verbal abuse, to rape and even murder, it is evident that the authorities are not doing enough to stem the tide of domestic violence which manifests itself in many forms. We also hope that the NHCR will help engender a conversation on what is responsible for the spike in domestic violence across the country in a bid to finding lasting solutions. “The public inquiry will furthermore provide stakeholders opportunity to contribute ideas WHILE SPOUSAL on how best to ABUSE CUTS ACROSS develop guideBOTH SEXES, WOMEN lines and policy ARE PREDOMINANTLY on sexual and THE VICTIMS IN OUR gender-based COUNTRY violence for institutions, MDAs, public and private organisations and homes that can serve as good practices”, said the Executive Secretary, Mr Tony Chukwu. Meanwhile, with the conviction of Sanda for the murder of her husband, and a few other similar cases, there is the tendency to underplay the violence women and girls are exposed to in our country. That would be wrong. While spousal abuse indeed cuts across both sexes, women are predominantly the victims in our

Letters to the Editor

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

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

country. Indeed, ‘UN Women: General database on violence against women’, put physical and/ or sexual intimate partner violence in Nigeria at 16 per cent. Yet abused women rarely report the violence inflicted on them for fear of being stigmatised by the society. Besides, the patriarchal interpretations within our various faiths preach endurance. In addition, lack of material and financial resources and the general lack of sympathy and support from the public have contributed immensely to the growth of domestic violence in many Nigerian homes. Inevitably, the victim and the abuser (where summoned) are usually advised to find a way to settle their differences, rather than make public the injury or the violence. This is despite the stringent provisions in the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015. The law prohibits, among others, abandonment of spouse, children and other dependents without sustenance, battery and harmful traditional practices. It provides a legislative and legal framework for the prevention of all forms of violence against vulnerable persons, especially women and girls and also prohibits economic abuse, forced isolation and separation from family and friends, substance attack, incest, indecent exposure and more. The intention is to eliminate violence in private and public life and provide maximum protection and effective remedies for victims of violence, and punishment of offenders. We must therefore understand that ignoring the subtle signals of violence can only lead to fatal consequences as we have witnessed lately. It behooves all Nigerians to remain diligent and cast away the complacency that has hitherto been the bane of the victims of abuse in our midst. Ignoring the violence on our women and children can only lead to disruption in our families and in our society. If we therefore fail to act or report, we are all complicit.

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

FAREWELL, KOBE BRYANT

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he world was thrown into deep mourning with the recent passage of Kobe Bryant who took the basketball sport by storm in two decades as a professional

player. He, his daughter and seven others, were in his private helicopter and were going to cheer up his 13- year-old daughter, Gianni, who was going to participate in a game. Tragically, they never made it as their lives were cut short in a fatal crash. The reality of the transience of our lives was thrown open to us with their deaths. One minute, one is a super star, the next minute you are as cold as a dog’s nose. This shows that we are really nothing, and it is vanity to be attached to the things of this world since we don’t know when and how the end will come. Just as we didn’t determine our birth – place, parents, etc., we also in most cases cannot determine how our exits from this sinful world will be. It is wise to live each day as if it was our last so that we can truly triumph. Kobe was born great and also achieved greatness as well. His father, Joe Bryant, once played for the NBA as well as his maternal uncle, John Cox. When his father retired, he relocated with his entire family to Italy where

he signed up in a club there and Kobe spent his formative years there and also learnt how to speak Italian fluently. He started playing basketball at the tender age of three and regularly watched videos on the game which was sent to him by his grandfather which he used to improve his skills. He moved to the United States to continue his high school education where he excelled in the sport which would later bring him fame and fortune. He joined the NBA at the age of 17 and signed up with Los Angeles Lakers where he spent his entire playing career. He shone brightly like the northern star and was highly decorated. He was a five- time NBA Champion, most valuable player, NBA all-star, he made the all NBA first team several times and was also part of the NBA second rookie team the year after he made his debut in the court of the greats and giants. He had over 33,000 points, over 7000 rebounds and over 6000 assists. He was a man of numerous parts as his life wasn’t just centred around basketball – his country’s national sport. He was happily married to his heartthrob, Vanessa for 19 years and they remained together through

A LAZY DELIVERY

thick and thin. Their marriage was exemplary as it was a departure from the norm of celebrity. They had three daughters and he was a family man to the core despite his hectic schedule which was an attestation to his multitasking skills. Upon retirement in 2016, he went into business. He invested in the company that manufactured the body armour super drink and made a whopping $200 million when Coca Cola acquired it. Alongside, Jeff Stibel, they established Stibel-Bryant venture capitalist firm which funds ideas in music, gaming and technology. Unlike many African-American sportsmen who went broke after their retirement due to their extravagant lifestyles, Bryant was different as he made hay while the sun shone by investing wisely. He will be sorely missed as he had a tremendous impact on millions of people around the world especially during his playing days where he brought joy to his fans’ faces. He was a Roman-Catholic. One of the prayers this sect prays on a daily basis is to be delivered from sudden death. Rather ironic. We pray that the Almighty grants him eternal rest.

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he CNN website included the article headlined ‘Uber suffers another blow as it loses McDonald’s delivery monopoly in the UK’. The specifics of the matter are irrelevant, it’s the general idea of ordering home delivery of a hamburger. Who could be so lazy? Originally it was only Pizza that was home delivered and that was mainly because it was a novelty and we were also too lazy to drive or sometimes too drunk to drive. Surely it should have stayed at that level, but the cuisine has improved to top quality restaurants delivery as well as some at the other end of the culinary scale. The time of hunting and gathering has moved to the phoning and waiting. There are even some new apartments where because space is at a premium the only food preparation space is for a microwave. Some people wonder why there is a problem with obesity although it should be obvious really. Some schools are also banning deliveries to students both because most of the food delivered is fast food and it means unknown people are entering the school premises. Time to start cooking for yourself and packing lunches for everyone else.

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FRIDAY JANUARY 31, 2020 • T H I S D AY

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY JANUARY 31, 2020

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POLITICS

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

Moses Struck the Rock Twice to Prove Udom is Right Robinson Umo praises Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State for retaining his deputy in his second term

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he re-nomination of Mr. Moses Ekpo constitutes a major “nice thing” from Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Ekpo’s statutory and political alter-ego. Having in his first term ceaselessly promoted Mr. Ekpo as the best deputy governor in the country, it became an integrity issue whether the governor would be able to move beyond mere promotion and shake off palpable pressure for him to run with another candidate as deputy governor. But why was the re-nomination that significant? Precisely because it made Mr. Emmanuel the very first governor in the state since 1999 to have gone into his second term with the same man as his running mate, thus sealing his status as a man of absolute integrity. It was, therefore, no surprise that at the polls later in the year, the people of the state enacted the second nice thing by preferring him to any other candidate, rightly judging that if his charity had so obviously began at his political home, he would have same to dispense in our larger home of Akwa Ibom, even at a discount. The voice of the people is the voice of God! That was exactly what the judiciary attested with regards to the popular mandate given to Governor Emmanuel and his Deputy for a second term. First, it was the tribunal, then the Appeal Court, and finally the Supreme Court. To massage and reciprocate the supreme beatitude of the moment, Governor Emmanuel recorded yet another first by retaining his entire first-term cabinet. Akwa Ibom witnessed several breath-taking things and the least we can do in appreciation here is to continue to count our blessings. And so we take Ibom Air, as well as an infrastructural and business wonder from the standpoint of our local Nigerian possibility, beating a national record in airline business feasibility. For the Deputy Governor, a consummate communicator, a doyen of the media, and devout Christian of Catholic persuasion, Mr. Ekpo had intoned, the calm mirth with which he conveys seriousness of decision praying on his lips. Given his very tight schedule, which included an oversea trip at the corner, my deductions were that the deputy governor could only undertake those media-related outings as crash programmes – and that is what it turned out to be: the two events on the same day; one even lasting well into mid-night. Health and security equivalent of striking the rock twice, if you asked me; just like his Biblical namesake had done in the days of old. But our modern day Moses stretched the limits in virtuous justification of the confidence reposed on him by the media in the state as its ambassador, as well as to prove the point that Governor Emmanuel means well for the state as indicated by these other nice things: the new deal in hospital infrastructure; the flour mill; rice mill; garri processing mill; the fertilizer blending company; the game-changer security move, resulting the cessation of hostilities

The voice of the people is the voice of God! That was exactly what the judiciary attested with regards to the popular mandate given to Governor Emmanuel and his Deputy for a second term. First, it was the tribunal, then the Appeal Court, and finally the Supreme Court

Is Ahmad Lawan Compromising the Independence of the Legislature? Mon-Charles Egbo argues that Senate President, Ahmad Lawan has kept faith with his determination to collaborate with the executive without compromising the independence of the legislature

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he principle of separation of powers is fruitful only when it is recognized and respected through collaboration among the three arms of government namely the executive, judiciary and the legislature. Certainly, not when they stand alone or at daggers drawn. For impactful results, the independence is not absolute but relative. Going further, democracy and development are related to the extent that while the former is a process, the latter is an outcome which instructively, comes only with good governance. Democratic governance does not automatically translate to good governance. It is a function of governments’ direction and focus as inspired by the dispositions of the heads. Equally, the “heroes past” were indeed mindful that good governance is not common or about rhetoric which is why the responsibility to bring about it is vested with the legislature till date. But this critical task is successfully performed by a parliament that is not just alive to its roles but is driven by passion and zeal to make the people the focus of governance. A parliament that in every circumstance is only seeking for what it holds for the man and his community. A legislature that believes that democracy is meaningful only when it is participatory where the people are not just actively involved but are fulfilled. A parliament whose leadership is always ready and willing to make necessary sacrifices within the ambit of the law, to ensure that the interests of the people are served. A leadership that provides solutions and creates opportunities. A leadership that understands that for impactful results, the independence of the

arms should not be absolute but relative. And of course, for keen observers, these are some of the remarkable differences between the 9th national assembly, particularly the senate, and the past parliaments at least since this republic. While the previous ones were concerned mainly about sustaining the democracy and seeking to preserve the independence of the legislature, the present is strategic, pragmatic and dynamic, without circumventing the laws in aligning with the collective ideals and aspirations of the people. Public good is its utmost goal. It always demonstrates that past experiences guide most of its actions. Above all, the 9th senate recognizes the demarcation in timelines between politics and governance. Even at the risk of losing in the senate presidency contest, Ahmad Lawan was vocal, emphatic and consistent in his campaign to pursue a leadership that would collaborate with the other arms in ensuring that the good governance deliverables of this administration are delivered to the people, duly and timely. However, it was not just a blanket proposition. There was a proviso that in that cooperation, particularly with the executive, the independence of the legislature would remain sacrosanct. He would be disagreeing wherever and whenever necessary. In short, it did not matter to him whether or not he was being politically-correct. As long as it would be in the interest of the people, he is favourablydisposed to the position. -Egbo, a public relations practitioner can be reached at moncharles@yahoo.com NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

in perennial flash-points across the state; its concomitant renaissance in infrastructure at the Ibagwa Barracks; and the upswing in plans towards actualizing the Ibom Deep Sea port project. Also in the list is the attainment of the all-time high of over 1,700 km of economically viable road network constructed across the state; the unveiling of the long awaited biographical Holy Grail on our Deputy Governor titled, “Trials and Truimphs”; the state’s arrival in 2019 at the critical threshold in power-sector investment: the launching by Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo of the AKS “light for all” programme. What about the broad road-map on agriculture, and the others in solid minerals and sand exploitation, in addition to the action plan on education? The Deputy Governor ’s speech at the gala night and award ceremony marking the end of the 2019 Press Week fully attested to the above achievements: “I thank all of you, my colleagues, for considering me worthy of an Ambassadorial Award. Journalism is my first love, and the only way I can pay back for the tremendous opportunities it has availed me is to defend its sanctity to the best of my ability. My request to the succeeding generation of journalists is that you stick to the highest standards of the practice in order not to disappoint your ambassador.” “A good turn deserves another,” he added. “The Udom Emmanuel administration is the first in Akwa Ibom to have patronized the media clan to the extent of assigning the Deputy Governor slot consecutively for two terms to a journalist. Whether the media in the state reciprocates this gesture by accordingly fraternizing with the administration, and doing all it can to ensure its success, will determine whether another administration in the future decides to copy Governor Emmanuel by co-opting a running mate from the media.” And the clincher: “as your amabassador in government, my feed-back to you is that this administration means well in all spheres, and that the media should take ownership of it.” And who would not take ownership of an administration which appropriately ended the year with “the ultimate nice thing”, which included the very novel Christmas Village initiative. On behalf of the Governor, the Deputy Governor had earlier flagged off the Christmas Village, carrying his media team with him. The team was obviously beaten by the aromatic bug from the barbecue at the village. When its principal was away from the state, the team virtually took a stand at the village – and here is how Esther Effiong, the senior information officer in the Deputy Governor ’s Office justified that action. “Our boss, His Excellency, the Deputy Governor, had called on the media in the state to take ownership of this administration. As his media team, we feel we should set the needed example. So we are here to relax, eat and take ownership.” -Umo is a Media Aide to the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY JANUARY 31, 2020

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PERSPECTIVE

It is Right Time for Lagos Infrastructure Development Fund Abiodun Dina emphasizes the need for Lagos State to take the lead, by establishing an infrastructure development fund to support prospective investors with risk capital

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t has been estimated that Lagos State will require a conservative sum of about $50 billion in five years to bridge the infrastructure gap in the state. Critical areas identified include roads and drainages- $20billion, power $10 billion, intermodal transportation $9.3 billion, information and communication technology (ICT) $5 billion, provision of portable water $3 billion and environment N2.7 billion. Whereas, the state budget for the year 2020 is N1.168 trillion ($3.2 billion). As ambitious as this may, it will take the state about 18 years to realise the goals in the aforementioned sectors if it can realise the proposed budget estimate, for the period. It is, however, surprising that despite the huge infrastructural gap in Lagos State, Nigeria and Africa at large, and the demand for infrastructure by service users, the participation of the private sector in infrastructure development has not been encouraging. This is not as a result of low demand for infrastructure, or affordability by service users. The ability and willingness of Lagosians and Nigerians at large to pay for quality services have been demonstrated with the rapid growth of the telecommunications sector. Also, Nigerians including Lagosians have embraced private alternative to electricity by providing individual generators and private alternative to pipe-borne water, by digging private boreholes, which invariably cost more than the services provided by government. The Eti-Osa Lekki Epe Toll Road, as well as the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge, has also demonstrated and proven the ability and willingness of the public to pay for quality services. What in my view has therefore been responsible for low private sector investment in infrastructure in the State and the country at large, is the inability of the public sector to mobilise private sector resources and expertise for infrastructure development. What transforms PPP projects from a mere concept on government wish list to a viable and bankable project is the ability of government to provide adequate information and data on pipeline projects, to enable prospective private investors to make informed decisions. Consequently, there is the need for Lagos State to take the lead, by establishing an infrastructure development fund to support prospective investors, with risk capital, to conduct feasibility studies and all the required due diligence that will guide against likely pitfall and provide an outline business case that will make pipeline projects bankable. Typically, the cost of project preparation is put at between 2 and 3% of the total cost of the project, for projects costing more than $100 Million. As such investors are likely to take more interest in a project with an outline business case, than one where they have little information and will have to utilise their limited resources in conducting due diligence on a project they are not sure is viable. Similarly, it is not likely for the public sector to have all the required expertise or experience across all sectors. For instance, Lagos State has never operated any rail system, airport or seaport but presently has pipeline projects in these sectors and may require legal, technical, financial and environmental expertise, amongst others, which may not be available

EPISTLES of ANTHONY KILA

FAO Governor Sanwo-Olu on the Roads of Lagos Anthony Kila

in the house. PPP model is also an emerging financial framework in Nigeria, as such, the public sector will still require a lot of hand-holding until it becomes entrenched. In this way, the public sector will not only benefit from seeds fund to conduct viability studies but also benefit from the human resources and expertise of the private sector. With this, besides prospective investors, the government can also access the funds to engage project advisers to conduct feasibility/viability studies in government’s areas of interest and engender the development of projectspecific procurement. The advisers will thus assist the Government in carrying out the technical, legal, financial and environmental due diligence where necessary, before proceeding to the funding market. While advisers would be engaged where there are identified skill gaps, the objective, and leadership of the project remains with government. The government can put seed money into the funds with support from organised private sector and donors. The board of trustees can the drawn from Financial Institutions, Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (NIAF), Public-Private Infrastructure Advisory Facility (PPIAF) managed by the World Bank, representatives from other developmental partners, as well as representatives from the Public Sector. When an organisation that draws from the funds eventually commences the project, the drawn funds is ploughed back, to enable others benefits. If the government develops most of its projects before taking it to the market, it will reduce the chances of project failure and also discourage unsolicited proposals. However, in cases where unsolicited proposals are found to fit into the strategic plan of Government and also offers innovative ideas, such proposal may be subjected to an open competitive bid, to engender transparency, competitiveness and ensure Government get value for money. In this case, the original proponent may be given the privilege to have the right to match a better offer. However, if the original proponent does not emerge as the preferred bidder, the Infrastructure Fund, comes as a ready source to compensate the originator of the proposal, as the cost of project development, while the preferred bidder refunds the Infrastructure fund for the project development expenses earlier paid to project originator. -Dina is an Administrator and a PPP communications expert and author of the book, ‘Evolving Competitive Public Service in Nigeria’

Dear Governor Sanwo-Olu I write with delight in the month of January 2020 to confirm that we can see that the roads of our Lagos have seen massive and effective repairs following your commitment in the month of October 2019 to repair those very bad roads that your administration inherited. I have not visited every corner of the State but I am pleased to report that my journeys through random places, like from the International Airport to my office and residence in Ikeja, to the Agege stadium where my darling Stationary Stores FC play and to my country home in Epe where the roads were really bad and with traffic that made journeys on our roads seem like hell on earth in the months of September, October, November have all seen massive improvements. It is always a joy to see an administration that addresses problems with practical, cogent and effective solutions instead of moral emotional or even historical explanations or worse still excuses. I however have a true but sad news for you Mr Governor: You cannot afford to dwell on this success no matter how much it cost your administration in terms of energy, ideas or finance. People’s needs are many and can be endless while our memory is transient. Very soon people will forget that you repaired those roads, just like we don’t remember to thank God and our Doctors for breathing again. To most, what you have done will soon be discarded as restoring status quo ante. Take heart Mr Governor, they are neither ungrateful or wicked, it is just the way things go with consumers and citizens. Luckily for you however, there are other challenging opportunities for you on our roads. One of such challenging opportunities lies in the profile, ethos and conduct of our commercial road users, from the trailer and bus drivers, to the bike riders we call okada to the tricycles riders we

Mr Governor, the many advantages of having well informed and better-behaved road users are so obvious and self-explanatory that we do not need to neither list nor dwell on them. A point however needs to be made: Curing our roads of the ills of ignorant, badly behaved, accident and traffic causing suicidal drivers and riders will not only make our roads better and safer for all whilst saving us productive time; it will actually help us become a better people. Tolerating or even accommodating such ills on our roads with no clear, conscious and coordinated effort to cure such sore is a blemish on our level of civilisation and an indictment on the quality of our governance

call keke Maruwa Lagos. Managing and changing the profile, ethos and conduct of these commercial road users can give your administration a chance to build a lasting legacy and it can be done the next three years. At the moment, a cursory and victim’s look at these commercial road users will reveal them to be selfish, mean, reckless, dangerous and a major cause of most traffic and even accidents on our roads. A closer and dispassionate look however will readily reveal that these drivers and riders are more ignorant than evil. Too many of these drivers and riders do not seem to have the barest understanding of the rules of sharing the roads with others. This lack of knowledge of the rules and ethics of the road is convincingly displayed in where and when drivers and riders stop to pick and drop passengers, their ignorance is even more obvious from the clearly suicidal way they rush to overtake other vehicles and the way they try to squeeze themselves between other vehicles. These road users need to be (re)taught and (re)indoctrinated continuously about using our roads. We need to create a well thought and highly coordinated method and forum to show these road users the rules of using our roads as well as what is expected of them whilst sharing the roads with others. The method has to be based on moral suasion that shows all that the process of reorientation is for their own good. Commercial road users come with one added nuisance for other road users: their unions, and those lovely thuglooking local government agents that stop them in the middle of the road for money and with no regard for other road users while they negotiate and pay. I have queried elsewhere if this is not pure extortion. Just like we do Career Development and Refresher Sessions with managers and other operators, the process of managing and changing the profile, ethos and conduct of these commercial road users can give us a chance of using these unions and local government agents that stop drivers and riders for money for a collective good: they can become the channel for reaching and gathering drivers and riders for retraining and reorientation. By using their unions and local government agents, it is possible to effectively manage and reorient these drivers and riders with little or even no additional cost to the State government and tax payers. Mr Governor, the many advantages of having well informed and betterbehaved road users are so obvious and self-explanatory that we do not need to neither list nor dwell on them. A point however needs to be made: Curing our roads of the ills of ignorant, badly behaved, accident and traffic causing suicidal drivers and riders will not only make our roads better and safer for all whilst saving us productive time; it will actually help us become a better people. Tolerating or even accommodating such ills on our roads with no clear, conscious and coordinated effort to cure such sore is a blemish on our level of civilisation and an indictment on the quality of our governance. Such blemish is not befitting for a State that strives to be a Centre of Excellence but luckily for all, with the right will we can do the right thing. Join me if you can @anthonykila to continue these conversations. -Prof Anthony Kila is Centre Director at CIAPS Lagos.

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BUSINESSWORLD

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Quick Takes Boeing Reports First Annual Loss Since 1997

TheBoeingCompanyhasreporteditsfirstannuallossinmorethantwo decadesasthegroundingofthe737MAXdraggeddownitsrevenues and added to its costs. The American-owned company reported a $1 billion loss in the fourth quarter and a $636 million loss for all of 2019, inthecompany’sfirstannuallosssince1997. TheMAXhasbeengroundedsinceMarchfollowingtwofatalcrashes. Boeing estimated additional costs of $9.2 billion connected to the grounding to compensate to customers and account for the impact oflowerproductionlevelsonexpenses. BoeingPresidentandChiefExecutiveOfficer,DavidCalhoun,said,“We recognisewehavealotofworktodo.Wearefocusedonreturningthe 737 MAX to service safely and restoring the long-standing trust that theBoeingbrandrepresentswiththeflyingpublic. “We are committed to transparency and excellence in everything we do. Safety will underwrite every decision, every action and every step we take as we move forward. Fortunately, the strength of our overall Boeingportfolioofbusinessesprovidesthefinancialliquiditytofollow athoroughanddisciplinedrecoveryprocess.� Boeinghasnowpeggedthefinancialimpactofthe737Maxgrounding at$18.6billion,includingestimatedcostsassociatedwithconcessions tocustomersanddisruptiontothenow-haltedproductionline.

Rwanda to Scrap Visa Fees

COURTESY VISIT

L-R: Mr. Peter Kaindl of Kronospan; Group Managing Director/GCEO, Notore, Mr. Onajite Okoloko; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Niyi Adebayo, and Managing Director/CEO, Oil & Gas Free Zones Authority, Mr. Umana Okon Umana, during a visit to the Notore Free Zone in Onne, Rivers State...recently

Coronavirus: Fear Grips Airport Workers Chinedu Eze Airport workers at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos are panicking over the devastating effect of Coronavirus, which has killed many, especially in China, as some Chinese are set to return to Nigeria after their Lunar celebration. Although Chinese authorities have directed their citizens not to travel broad, THISDAY learnt that many Chinese who travelled to their country for the celebration would want to return. A source told THISDAY on Wednesday, “Hundreds of Chinese left Nigeria for China to celebrate their annual festival –Lunar New Year– to return next week. At the moment

AVIATION over 6,0000 Chinese are already infected with coronavirus, the Nigerian government should take serious precautions and preventive actions before we have an epidemic in Nigeria. Coronavirus in Nigeria will be a giant catastrophe. Please circulate this until someone high in authority hears about it.� THISDAY learnt that the Federal Airports Authority (FAAN) of Nigeria is already working with the Port Health Department of the Federal Ministry of Health to ensure that the virus is not imported into the country. “All measures used to contain the dreaded Ebola virus have

been re-activated afresh and more precautionary measures have also been taken to contain any eventuality,� FAAN said. The Regional Manager in charge of MMIA, Mrs. Victoria Shin-Aba, told THISDAY in Lagos on Wednesday, that FAAN has activated public health emergency system and all stakeholders involved with air travel are being carried along. She also disclosed that sensitisation was being carried out by a committee on communicable diseases being supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO), adding that a national emergency meeting would be held today in Abuja and on Monday FAAN would hold another meeting to domesticate the decisions taken

at the national level. Shin-Aba also said the agency has warned its staff to be very careful, adding that FAAN is considering limiting the operations of some airlines but that would need to be approved by higher authorities. “But we have directed all our staff who have anything to do with passengers to be more careful while processing passengers. We have also issued directives that anyone suspected to be exposed to the virus should be immediately quarantined. “We have also involved the Lagos state government and we are strictly abiding by the health emergency plan. We Continued on page 22

CRFFN Begins Collection of N5bn Operating Fees Next Week Eromosele Abiodun Following the conclusion of the integration with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) will next week commence the collection of Practitioners Operating Fees (POF) in all seaports in the country. The Registrar and Chief Executive of CRFFN, Samuel Nwakohu, in an interview, in Lagos, said the council was set to commence the collection, which is an Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the federal government and all parties involved.

MARITIME With the new initiative, he said the council would now be fully equipped to regulate freight forwarding in the country, adding that as a noble profession, freight forwarding is not an all comers’ affair. The council, he revealed, has over the years been under funded, stating it only gets N2.7 million from the government every month which hardly covers overheads alone. “With that kind of situation, it became extremely difficult to run the place. POF, I am told, is one of the ways to generate revenue. For one year we have been on it, we went to ICRC to make a business case, the

Federal Executive Council has approved our plan. We have been able to integrate our platform with the NPA and the NCS and we are negotiating with the NCAA. “By the time we conclude our negotiation with NCAA, the airports and land borders will also join,� he said. He said the council hopes to surpass the projected N5 billion annually as the clearing of a 20ft container would attract N1,000 while a 40ft container will attract N2,000. Giving a breakdown of how the money would be shared among all parties involved, he said the federal government would get 25 per cent, the claimants 25 per cent while

the rest will go to the council and its technical partner. The CRFFN boss added that contrary to opinion in some quarters, POF will reduce the cost of doing business at the Nigerian seaports. Nwakohu, stated that it was mischievous when people say that that POF collection would add to the cost of doing business. “It will not add to the cost of doing business rather it will reduce the cost of doing business in several ways. POF is that service charge that a freight forwarder charges his client. For example, if the service charge for 20ft container is

Rwanda is considering scrapping visa fees for citizens of the CommonwealthnationsaswellastheAfricanUnionandLaFrancophonie member countries, President Paul Kagame has announced. Kagame made the announcement recently at the International School for GovernmentatKing’sCollegeinLondon,whilespeakingaboutRwanda’s transformationjourney. TheconversationwasmoderatedbyAlexanderDowner,theExecutive Chairoftheinstitution.ThePresidentemphasisedRwanda’scommitment totradewiththerestoftheworld. “WearesoonconsideringexemptingcitizensoftheCommonwealth,as wellastheAfricanUnionandtheFrancophonie,frompayingvisafees whenenteringRwanda,�hesaid. The move was expected to ease access to Rwanda for a significant sectionoftheinternationalcommunity. The Commonwealth has 53 members while Francophonie has 54 memberstatesacrosstheworld. Todate,only17Africancountrieswereexemptedfrompayingvisafees. ThetallyofAfricancountries,CommonwealthmemberstatesandLa Francophoniecomestoabout95countriessettobenefitfromthemove. This, development experts say, would among other things increase chances of Rwanda hosting global summits due to ease of access, among other benefits. The development could also see Rwandans easily access countries from across the in the event of reciprocity by beneficiarycountries. KagamewhowasintheUKfortheUK-AfricaSummitsaidthatthereis apositivemomentumintermsoftherelationshipbetweentheUnited KingdomandAfrica,includingRwanda. “Thetimingisgood.Britainislookingtore-imagineitsglobaltradeand investmentarrangements.Andlaterthisyear,theworld’slargestnew free trade area will become operational in Africa, covering nearly the entirecontinent,�hesaid.

S’African Airways Gets Funding

Cash-strappedstatecarrierSouthAfricanAirways(SAA)willreceive3.5 billionrand($244million)ofemergencyfundingfromthegovernmentownedDevelopmentBankofSouthernAfrica,theairline’sbusinessrescue practitionerssaidonTuesday. SAA is fighting for its survival after it entered a form of bankruptcy protection in December and cancelled some flights because of cash shortages. “We can confirm that the Development Bank of Southern Africa has committed 3.5 billion rand in funding to the SAA Practitioners, with animmediatedraw-downof2billionrand,�theteamoverseeingSAA’s bankruptcy-protectedrestructuringtoldReuters. “Fundingfortherestructuringphaseafterthebusinessplanisadopted isbeingconsideredbypotentialfunders,�thepractitionerssaid. SAAhasnotmadeaprofitsince2011,survivinginsteadonmorethan20 billionrandinbailoutsoverthelastthreeyears.Thathasputthecountry’s creditratingandinvestorconfidenceunderincreasingpressure.

“We have received Boeing 737 flight simulator to train our pilots. This will safe airlines huge amount of money in foreign exchange. A well-trained, proficient pilot is number one key to safety� Minister of Aviation,

Senator Hadi Sirika Continued on page 22

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BUSINESSWORLD CORONAVIRUS: FEAR GRIPS AIRPORT WORKERS are prepared for this because before the coronavirus, we were working on similar problem and that made us to be more prepared,� she said. Coronavirus is adversely affecting the global air travel market. Reuters reported that China’s growth has helped power a global aviation boom over the last decade, but as the country curtails travel in the face of a new coronavirus, a slowdown could hit the industry harder than ever before. Reuters also reported that United Airlines, Air Canada, Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd and Finnair Plc were among the carriers that have already canceled some flights to China as countries expand travel warnings and demand plummets due to the coronavirus outbreak. British Airways has halted bookings of direct flights from London to Beijing and Shanghai until March, according to its website. The virus that has killed more than 130 people and sickened more than 6,000, the vast majority of whom are in China. US officials said the White House had decided against suspending all flights there for now, but was still considering the measure.

CRFFN BEGINS COLLECTION OF N5BN OPERATING FEES NEXT WEEK N20, 000, we are asking the freight forwarder to pay us N1, 000 out of that money. From that N1, 000, we will be able to train him, we will be able to look into other issues. “Nothing comes free, for us to equip you for tomorrow; we need some funds to be able to help you. You can’t go to any school at all without being able to pay for it. So, for me, I believe that it will bring down the cost of doing business because the man who is the beneficiary, at the end of the day will be better equipped on how to go about his business. It will no longer be an all comers’ affair,� he said. He added: “We also need money to administer ourselves. We are a regulatory agency. Let the truth be said, over the period, some people have been collecting this money and putting it in their pockets. Naturally, you don’t expect them to be happy. “

NEWS

Agriculture, Most Important Business in World, Says Adesina The African Development Bank (AfDB) President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, reminded students of the important role they have to play in the continent’s economic development, as he was conferred with an honorary doctorate. According to a statement, the Doctorate of Science was awarded by the Federal University of Agriculture in Abeokuta, Nigeria, in honor of Adesina’s work in agriculture and food security across the continent. Lauding the choice of Adesina as the institution’s 2020 awardee, the Chancellor, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu, described him as a global household name whose exploits in promoting value chain addition in agricultural produce have remained unparalleled. In his acceptance speech, Adesina commended the Nigerian government’s efforts to promote agriculture and agribusiness in Nigeria. “Agriculture is the most important profession and business in the world,� Adesina said. The Bank head pledged to continue the work of transforming Nigeria’s agriculture sector. “The size of food and agriculture in Africa will rise to $1 trillion by 2030. The population of Africa,

now at 1.2 billion, will double to 2.5 billion by 2050. They all must eat. And only through food and agribusiness can this be achieved,� he added. Adesina said the African Development Bank was spearheading efforts to feed Africa and was investing $25 billion over a ten-year

period to transform the continent’s agriculture sector. What Africa does with food will determine the future of food, given that 65 per cent of the arable land left to feed the world is here, Adesina said. “I am delighted to see so many of our young people engaged in agriculture

arising from the Youth Employment in Agriculture initiative launched when I was minister to get the youth into agriculture as a business. From their innovations in the use of drones, food processing, packaging, transport and logistics and marketing, they are already unlock-

ing the opportunities in agriculture,� he said. He urged agricultural universities to optimise their role in linking research, innovations and technologies to farmers and the food and agriculture industry. “Africa’s youth must become leaders to help feed our world,� he advised.

GLAD TO MEET YOU

Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala-Usman (left), presenting the agency’s plaque to the Managing Director of STARZ Marine and Engineering, Greg Ogbeifun, during his visit to the NPA headquarters, in Lagos...recently

Salami Harps on Proactive Data, Open Data Source Oluchi Chibuzor The Chairman of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council (ECA), Dr. Doyin Salami, has stressed the need for firms to understand consumer spending pattern and their socio-economic income spread through investment in data. This, according to him would help firms gain competitive advantage as well as to attract more consumers. The Chief Executive Officer, Kainos Edge Consulting, stated this at a breakfast meeting organised by Redwood consulting, with the theme, “Power of Consumer Data�, held in Lagos recently. He said aside the demographic changes, income preferences, value,

decision making process of generation XYZ would affects every business products and services. He also said with Nigeria’s population doubling every 30 years and with half of its working population expected to be within the group in the next 20 years, it gives room for appropriate knowledge of the market. The economist added that incomplete, lack of timely and unavailability of data in the country had led to huge problem in the capacity to use data across many public sector, decision-making institutions. “The decision-making architecture of every organisation must incorporate data analysts to interplay its own peculiar data with modern trends affecting

local markets. “Indigenous corporate organisations must understand the imperative of data investment as few lack the capacity to use it into decision making tools as done by multinationals in the country. “I wonder the risk companies carry without knowing the sectors their customers earn their income is where 62 per cent of Nigerians makes their income every day. This provides a foundation to lay corporate specifics, brands and products,� he said. Salami also stressed the need for the creation of cost-sharing platforms to reduce cost of data gathering by most firms in the country. “In my firm, we have invested over N100 million

towards this kind of initiatives as mass personalisation would require open source technology and technology would drive corporate interaction with customers,� he added. On his part, the Managing Director, Redwood consulting, a marketing solution company, Mrs. Hannah Oyebanjo, said as an insight-led marketing advisory service company, providing marketing, communication management services and capacity development to businesses across sectors, it was committed to providing entry marketing strategies to brands. “We drive profitable and sustainable business growth using insight and effective marketing strategies and campaigns to unearth deep knowledge of the consumer

and shopper environment, market or segment and develop strategies that make the difference,� she explained. In a panel session, titled, ‘winning the channels series,’ data experts agreed that its predictability, trends and opportunities should make companies understand the evolution of consumer behavior, consumption patterns, location and channels to create insights on how to gain fair share of trade. “There must be a complete evolution from reactive to proactive response in the entire market value chain as data is useless if there is no insight. “Nigerian companies should treat data ethically in compliance with local and international data protection policies,� she added.

APM Terminals Wins ‘Most Compliant Terminal Award’ Group Business Editor

Eromosele Abiodun

Obinna Chima

Capital Market Editor

Goddy Ogene

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Senior Correspondent

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

Ă’Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂŽĂ&#x; äĂ? (Aviation) ĂœĂ™Ă—Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă? ĂŒĂ“Ă™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă˜ (Maritime) Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă? Ă—Ă?ÔÙ (Finance) Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Chineme Okafor (Energy) Reporters

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

APM Terminals Apapa has been named the Most Compliant International Ships and Ports Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) Onshore Facility in Nigeria by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). The award was presented to APM Terminals at the NIMASA Corporate Dinner and Merit Awards chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, in Lagos recently.

The ISPS Code is a comprehensive set of measures instituted by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to enhance the security of ships and port facilities. It was developed in response to the perceived threats to ships and port facilities in the wake of the 9/11 attacks in the United States. According to NIMASA’s independent assessment and screening panel, APM Terminals “maintained the highest compliance with the implementation of maritime

security protocols in its onshore facilities, and maintains adequate access control and port facility security assessment and plans on a consistent basis in 2019 in line with the ISPS Code.� The award was presented on behalf of NIMASA by the Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Abubakar Bello and received on behalf of APM Terminals Apapa by its Security Manager, Mr. Olatunbosun Ayodele. The Managing Director of APM Terminals Apapa, Mr. Martin Jacob, expressed ap-

preciation to NIMASA for the award. He said APM Terminals Apapa remains committed to the safety and security of lives and property at its facility. He said in addition to meeting international security requirements outlined by the ISPS Code and APM Terminals’ global safety requirements, the terminal operates a truck safety program that ensures that designated, physically protected areas are provided for drivers conducting operational activities outside of their truck cabs,

as well as safety instructions specific to the facility’s layout and traffic flow. He also said that APM Terminals Apapa uses the most advanced crane simulator in West Africa for the training of its crane operators to ensure safe use of equipment at the terminal. Speaking at the 2019 award ceremony, the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, said the award was organised to recognise excellence in the Nigerian maritime industry.

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BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

Cabo Verde Airlines Partners NAHCO

Stories by Chinedu Eze

The national airline of Cape Verde, Cabo Verde Airlines, has chosen the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (NAHCO) to handle its operations in Nigeria. Cabo Verde is a passenger and cargo airline based in Cape Verde. It connects four continents with non-stop flights from its hub at Amílcar Cabral International Airport on Sal Island. A statement from NAHCO, said the airline would experience nahco aviance’ professional services, which it stated has seen the ground handler corner the handling of all European airlines that ply the Nigerian route. Cabo Verde, which flies four times into the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos at the moment would join the list of other African airlines which had partnered nahco

aviance for seamless operation in Nigeria. “The list includes Kenya Airways, RwandAir, Egypt Air, Ethiopia Airlines, ASKY, Air Peace, Royal Air Maroc and Cronos, to mention but a few. “Cabo Verde’s increasing network includes flights to Washington and Boston in USA, Dakar, Senegal, and more than four destinations in Brazil, including Foraleza, Porto Alegre, Recife and Salvador,� the statement said. The airline also flies to Lisbon, Portugal and two ports in Italy: Milan and Rome; and to Paris, France. The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NAHCO, Mrs. Olatokunbo Fagbemi, expressed delight with the new business pointing out that the Company has upped the ante in ground handling operations in Nigeria. According to her, “We

are doing everything right to please our customers who continue to rely on us to excel. Our unmatched investment in human capacity development continues to be the key to our soaring profile.� Fagbemi, said her team would continue to support the company’s business partners. The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (nahco aviance) is one of West Africa’s leading ground handling service provider with presence in all major Nigerian Airports. Founded in December 1979, the Company has since grown into a multi - billion naira company with diversified investments in energy, logistics and development of a free trade zone. This has led to the establishment of Nahco Free Zone (NFZ), Mainland Cargo Options Limited (MCO) and Nahco Energy Power and Infrastructure (EPI).

ACI Cautions Travellers on Coronavirus The Airport Council International (ACI) has cautioned travellers on the danger of the recent coronavirus outbreak, noting that it is of considerable concern to the aviation industry. For airport operators, the main is to protect the health and welfare of travellers, staff and the public, and to reduce the opportunities for dissemination of communicable diseases, ACI said. “In the coming days and weeks, ACI expects to see national regulators and health authorities react to the spread of the virus by introducing measures directly affecting aviation and more broadly. “This advisory bulletin is addressed to ACI members and reiterates a number of options. and best practices that airports and national authorities can use to protect against communicable diseases that might pose a serious risk to public health. “The recommendations are designed to reduce exposure to an infectious agent at airports and to improve the response to health-related emergencies by establishing mechanisms for rapid decision-making and action. “They are intended as

guidance, not to be adopted as written, but to be modified to the local situation as necessary. They are not specific to the coronavirus outbreak,� the international organisation observed. It noted that not all of the measures identified would be the responsibility of the airport; but could be used in discussion with local authorities and national regulators when determining appropriate actions. The top priority should be to agree responsibility and accountability for measures between the airport and the relevant authority, it added. “From an operational perspective, ACI is committed to assisting airports. Airport members are advised to refer to the following guidelines as necessary, that can be found in the Airport preparedness guidelines for outbreaks of communicable disease. “To keep updated on the latest news on the coronavirus outbreak, ACI recommends the website maintained by the World Health Organisation (WHO) WHO Disease Outbreak News. “The responsibility for management of the risk of communicable diseases at

airports rests primarily with the local/regional/national public health authority and the relevant airport operator. If more than one airport is operated by the same organisation, plans should be prepared for each airport, in line with the recommendations contained in this document. “Together with its national authorities, each airport operator can play its part towards achieving greater coordination of preparedness measures, the key to success in reducing the risk of spread of any communicable disease,� the world body added. ACI recommended that airport preparedness plan should address aspects such as: communication (especially with the public), screening, logistics (transport of travellers to health facilities), equipment, entry/exit controls, and coordination with the local/regional/national public health authority. It added that a particularly important requirement is for adequate supplies of appropriate personal protective equipment (including hand-washing facilities or sanitising gels) to be available for airport staff.

‌US, Japan Pull Nationals from China The United States and Japan have evacuated their nationals from a quarantined city in China on Wednesday, while British Airways has suspended flights to mainland China, where deaths from a virus leapt to 133 and major economic impact was predicted. Reuters reported that Beijing’s plans to slay the “devilâ€? coronavirus may have won the trust of the World Health Organization (WHO), but confirmation of another 1,459 cases - taking the total to 5,974 in China - only fueled global public alarm.

Deaths from the flu-like virus also rose by 27 to 133. Almost all have been in the central province of Hubei, the capital of which is Wuhan, where the virus emerged last month in a live wild animal market. Beijing’s plans to slay the “devil� coronavirus may have won the trust of the World Health Organization (WHO), but confirmation of another 1,459 cases - taking the total to 5,974 in China - only fueled global public alarm. Deaths from the flu-like virus also rose by 27 to 133.

Almost all have been in the central province of Hubei, the capital of which is Wuhan, where the virus emerged last month in a live wild animal market. The situation remained “grim and complex�, Chinese President Xi Jinping acknowledged. In many Chinese cities, streets were largely deserted with the few who ventured out wearing masks. Starbucks coffee shops required people to have temperatures taken and masks on.

As New NCAA Boss Takes Over

Chinedu Eze

By February, the newly appointed Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Musa Shuaibu Nuhu, will take over the management of the regulatory agency. President Muhammadu Buhari had submitted his name to the Senate for confirmation. In his request from the Senate for Nuhu’s conformation, Buhari had said, “Captain Musa Shuaibu Nuhu is a reputable airline Pilot and Aviation Safety Expert with well over 30 years of cognate working experience in the Aviation Industry.� Reports indicate that Nuhu ventured into the private sector for 10 years as an airline Captain, Safety Officer and Chief Pilot. He was Technical Assistant to the then Minister of State, Aviation Sen. Hadi Sirika before his appointment as the Representative of Nigeria on ICAO Council. In addition to Airline Transport Pilot Licence, Captain Nuhu holds the prestigious International Aviation MBA Degree from Concordia University Montreal, Canada. He also obtained several professional and managerial certificates in Aviation Safety, Aircraft Accident Investigation, Audit, Quality Management Systems amongst others. After his service at ICAO, Nuhu is back in the country to take up his new assignment. THISDAY spoke to industry insiders on what they expect the new Director General would do in order to sustain and improve on safety standard in the industry and also for him to put the agency on a higher pedestal. The CEO of Aero Contractors, Captain Ado Sanusi spoke to THISDAY and said the new Director General should move towards the total overhaul of the agency. “We expect total overhaul of NCAA so that the agency would become more efficient and make airlines save money so that they will survive. Oversight should be done in a more efficient manner in order to help airlines save their resources,� Sanusi advised. He said Nuhu should bring up personnel licencing to be in conformity with international standards and he should also look at test procedures for engineers, pilots, dispatchers, cabin crew so that they would be in tandem with what is obtained globally. Sanusi said airport licensing is critically important as well as that of service providers. “He should ensure that most airports and service providers are licensed. There should be more oversight on aviation fuel marketers and distributors. NCAA should develop more regulation to check the activities of fuellers because of the sensitivity of their product. How they access and distribute

We expect total overhaul of NCAA so that the agency would become more efďŹ cient and make airlines save money so that they will survive. Oversight should be done in a more efďŹ cient manner in order to help airlines save their resources

Kwara Hajj

Nuhu

the product should be monitored in a more efficient manner,� Sanusi said. Speaking in the same vein, the Director of Engineering, Ibom Air, Lookman Animaseun, said there were issues that lend themselves to arguments and debates in the last administration but things seem to have improved significantly in the agency; so Nuhu is expected to make a statement as he takes over the management of the agency. “From the people’s perspective of what happened in the last administration in NCAA, there are indications that things have improved from what it used to be, so we expect the new Director General to make a statement as he takes over the agency. I know he has the capacity to transform the agency,� he said. Animaseun, also made reference to Nuhu’s invaluable work experience and expose, noting that he is coming to NCAA with bountiful resume; so it is expected that his wealth of experience be brought to bear on his new job. “There are two key areas we expect the new NCAA Director General to work on. He should stop the infrastructural decay at the airports. This is affecting flight operations and security. He should intervene, especially at the Lagos airport, which is porous in terms of security. “He should also be on top of government agencies and monitor them as part of his oversight function. Many past Director General neglected this aspect of oversight, except Dr Harold Demuren. “Nuhu should institute quarterly briefing, addressing stakeholders on what is going on and what he plans to do. He should not neglect the training of NCAA personnel, especially the statutory training prorammes,� Amisnaseun said. On welfare of NCAA workers, the President of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Comrade Ben Nnabue, told THISDAY that the new Director General should approve the agency’s conditions of service (CoS). “The conditions of service of NCAA have not been approved. The new DG must ensure that the new COS is approved and implemented immediately. There should be the immediate implementation of the new minimum wage and consequential adjustments and more importantly with the foreseen ‘ Future of work’ (Artificial Intelligence and robotics) and it’s global consequences, NCAA should commence digital literacy program, We need to resume periodic training and re training of NCAA workers,� he said.

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Sustaining Improved Safety Standard of Nigeria Carriers Chinedu Eze writes on the need to sustain and improve the improved air safety standard recorded by the country

A

fter the crash of Associated Aviation Flight 361 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos on October 3, 2013, Nigeria has not recorded any accident involving fatality in a scheduled flight operation. There are many factors attributed to this good record. While credit must go to the agency, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for its efficient regulatory of the industry, especially in the area of safety, credit must also go to the airlines, which since after the Dana Air crash in 2012 reinforced its self-regulatory programme without waiting to be nudged by NCAA. NCAA has reiterated that it is the responsibility of the airline to ensure it conducts safe flight operations, while the regulatory authority guides and beats them into line when necessary. Nigerian carriers gained a mileage when after the aforementioned accidents NCAA stipulated that the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) would be a safety benchmark for Nigerian carriers. IOSA is a very stringent safety audit, which put any airline that passes it at per with any other international carrier that also scaled the hurdle. It is a significant requisite to play at the global air transport market. Nigerian airlines were subjected to the audit and some of them after a laboured process passed the audit, but one major challenge of the audit is how the airlines could sustain their safety standard to enable them pass the certification every year. Air Peace Sustained Safety Standard Air Peace has operated for just six years and in the last three years it has been able to maintain safety standard that enabled it renew its IOSA certification. That explained why IATA was thrilled last week when it handed to the airline the third certificate for passing its stringent audit. The Head of Account Management, West and Central Africa, International Air Transport Association, Dr. Samson Fatokun, commended Air Peace, for upholding high standards of safety in its flight operations. “It gives me joy to present this certificate today because I know it’s the fruit of painstaking effort of your team�, Fatoken said. He said scaling through this third safety audit process is a testament to Air Peace’s commitment to maintaining high safety standards in its operations. He disclosed that for any airline to pass the safety audit, its safety compliance must be hundred percent, and Air Peace has met this prerequisite. “Many airlines are not able to achieve this because they don’t have the discipline and hard work which have consistently earned Air Peace this safety recognition. The certificate gives the airline a global recognition as a hundred percent safety-compliant airline�, Fatokun said. Stringent Audit Industry consultant, Amos Akpan, explained that scaling through the IATA Operational Safety Audit is not an easy matter because the process is very stringent. He told THISDAY in Lagos, that IOSA audit is a rigorous exercise in which an airline’s operational specifications are made to conform to the high standard of safety for it to be eligible for the certification. “It is very stringent and rigorous. It is the compliance to IATA safety specifications and standards in terms of aircraft maintenance and operations. You document the standard as manuals and operate those manuals. It is not all airlines that pass it; so it is a testimony of Air Peace consistency to high safety standard, which conforms to international operational specified procedure. For Air Peace to successfully go through it three times is an indication of the management’s consistency to high safety standards in their operations,� Akpan said.

Commendation Member of aviation industry think tank group, Aviation Round Table (ART) and chief executive of Centurion Securities, Group Capt John Ojikutu (retd) commended the Air Peace for successfully renewing its IOSA certification the third time. Ojikutu stated that IOSA certification for airlines is similar to ICAO certification of member states that have sufficiently complied with the international best standards in aviation safety and security or better still, maintained the standards for the Category One status of the US FAA. “It means the operator’s safety and security standards meet those required for international operations which necessarily are higher than the national standards. With such certification, you can fly international, interline with other international airlines or go into alliance with them if you wish. “Renewal of certification is similar to renewal of pilots licences to ensure currency or assure that the standards are maintained. Such certifications are subject to periodic audits like those of ICAO audits too on the international safety and security standards. “It may not be a requirement in the West Africa sub-region, but most countries make it compulsory for reciprocity airlines that fly to their countries or for airlines that want interline or alliance with them,� Ojikutu added. Also, the chief executive officer, Aglow Aviation Support Services, Tayo Ojuri, said what the renewal of Air Peace IOSA certification implies for the industry is that from the safety perspective, it gives assurance to the passengers and ensures there is a safety culture within the airline. “The IOSA certification helps reduce the cost of insurance for the airline because when you see that there is a safety process and a conscious attention to safety, it reduces accidents and incidents. The reduction of accidents and incidents eventually reduces the insurance cost. “For Air Peace, the certification shows that there is a culture and operational efficiency within the process, whereby the staff imbibes that process to ensure there is safety from the ramp, to the check-in counter, to the engineers,� Ojuri said. He further explained that the certification shows that Air Peace is playing actively in the league of best international airlines. “If there is a partnership opportunity for Air Peace and the foreign airlines or a code share, these are some of the things foreign airlines are going to consider. Apart from the revenue and

the route, the safety is paramount,� he said. Customer Service The spokesman of NCAA, Sam Adurogboye told THISDAY that in order to help airlines improve on their safety standard, the regulatory agency adopted the IOSA certification as standard rating for them. IOSA, of course, would give them international rating standard on safety and enable them become IATA members. This will enhance interlining and other partnerships with international carriers. Adurogboye explained that Nigeria had embraced the ICAO Standard and Recommended Practices (SARPS), which is a minimum standard for member nations. In addition to that, civil aviation authorities of member nations are allowed by ICAO to adopt other standards that could be higher than ICAO SARPS, hence the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) programme, which FAA use to oversight other country’s safety standard. So countries, which airlines wish to operate to the US must be IASA certified. “Nigeria has adopted IASA, which enables Nigerian airlines to fly to the US. NCAA also has NICASA-International Civil Aviation Safety Assessment. We conduct audit too. If an airline of a country wants to operate into Nigeria, NCAA will go and assess that country. It is in that spirit that we adopted IOSA. “When Nigeria designated the initial five airlines to operate to the UK and the US, NCAA paid N10 million on behalf of these airlines to IATA so that the later would conduct gap analysis, which is the first level of IOSA, for the airlines. That was about 2010 and I think two airlines passed the audit. So for you to be recognised at the global level you must pass IOSA. You cannot have alliance with other international carriers without scaling IOSA certification,� Adurogboye said. However, Adurogboye observed that now that Nigerian carriers have improved on their safety standards, the next hurdle they should cross is improvement on customer care. He said that it is poor customer care that makes international airlines unwilling to partner with Nigerian carriers, noting that foreign airlines would not want their customers to be stranded when airlines delay or cancel flights. “Customer care of Nigerian airlines is very poor. This is the area they need to work hard on. They must learn how to keep to time. People at every level of business ensure that they don’t lose customers. You gain more if you treat them well. Let us continue to

sensitise the airlines on this,� he said. But THISDAY investigations indicated that there are myriads of other factors that give rise to delays and sometimes flight cancellations in Nigeria beyond the failures of domestic carriers. For the airlines, their shortcomings are unrealistic scheduling, AOGs and administrative bottlenecks, but beyond the airlines, there are VIP movements, weather and constraints suffered due to inadequate and obsolete airport infrastructure in addition to total absence of some critical facilities at the airports. Sustaining Safety Standard Sustaining and improving on the safety standard attained by Air Peace is challenging in an environment where major aircraft maintenance is done overseas and critical training of technical personnel is also done overseas. Overseas aircraft and training cost humongous amount of money to the airlines and this is why there is the need that most of these things should be done locally. This is why Nigerian airline operators welcome the effort being made by Aero Contractors to sustain and expand its Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility to conduct checks on all operating aircraft in Nigeria. The CEO of Aero Contractors, Captain Ado Sanusi, who commended Air Peace for the feat it achieved in the area of safety, said that what would save Nigerian airlines and enable them spend less on aircraft maintenance is if they conduct checks locally. Sanusi said that Aero maintenance facility will significantly cut down the huge expenses airlines expend overseas on maintenance and that is why the company had continued to expand the maintenance scope. “We just finished the first D-check on Boeing 737 Classic in Nigeria. We did the first C-check two years back and since then we have done many C-checks in the country. We have done for our own aircraft and for third party. Now, we have just done the first D-check in the country in the 737-500 and that is why you are seeing us increasing our fleet,� Sanusi said. He said that Nigerian airlines should encourage maintenance organisations locally by patronising them and working together with them and in that partnership cut down on the huge foreign exchange spent on overseas maintenance. Last year major local carriers conducted some of their checks at Aero facility. That synergy has given rise to a win-win situation and ensures that the airlines maintain high safety standard.

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PERSPECTIVE

Building Your Personal Brand with Emotional Intelligence Abiola Salami An effective ‘Brand You’ is not a ‘marketing promise’. It is a track record of demonstrated/sustained excellence. – Tom Peters

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xperts say a personal brand is built around you — your personality, your lifestyle, and your interests. In my opinion, Personal Branding is an inside-out approach to maintaining a track record of demonstrated excellence. In building a sustainable Personal Brand therefore, we need to master the skills in Emotional Intelligence. Most of the success literature published over 200 years ago focused on some elements of Emotional Intelligence as being the foundation of success. Things like cheerfulness, courage, humility, honour, love, integrity, confidence, joy, hope, fairness, modesty and the Golden Rule. However, over the past half a century, the basic view of success shifted from these elements of Emotional Intelligence to what I will call elements of “Attraction Intelligence�. In these “Attraction Intelligence� books, the driving force behind success was shown to be an individual’s personality – as opposed to character. The books focused on things like dress sense, make up, public image, grooming, performance, charisma and acceptance in social interactions, Media & PR, having a positive mental attitude, skills and techniques to get people to behave in certain ways. While there are a few attempts in contemporary times to bring attention to the elements of Emotional Intelligence, most people ignore them and focus on their long held opinion of ‘Attraction Intelligence’ in building Personal Branding where a brand cannot live up to its market promise. According to Daniel Goleman, Emotional Intelligence is the ability to understand yourself (i.e. Self-Awareness) and manage yourself (i.e. Self-Management) as we also understand other people (i.e. Social Awareness) and manage others (i.e. Relationship Management). Everyone wants a strong personal brand. The one where you walk into a client’s

office, a boardroom or a social gathering and people think all the right things about you. But, ignoring self-awareness while only emphasizing dress sense, swag and other outward reflection of your personal brand is the fastest way to kill your Personal Brand. Why? The packaging will be awesome but the content will be awful. Self -Awareness is about knowing yourself as you really are - it is discovering your authenticity. There are 3 Simple Things You Can Do to help you with this journey of Self Awareness. Firstly, Keep A Journal About Your Emotions. The biggest challenge to developing self-awareness is objectivity. It’s hard to develop perspective on your emotions and tendencies when everyday feels like a new mountain to climb. With a journal, you can record what events triggered strong emotions in you and how you responded to them. Write about occurrences at work and home - don’t leave anything behind. Psychologists tell us that in just 21days, you will begin to see patterns in your emotions and you will develop a better

ITF to Graduate 11,000 Youths Seriki Adinoyi in Jos The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) is set to graduate over 11,000 youths trained under one of the fund’s skills acquisition programmes - the National Industrial Skills Development Program (NISDP) - it introduced and implemented to facilitate federal government’s policy on job and wealth creation. The fund has also completed and is set to commission four of its projects across Nigeria between February, 20-28. The Director General of ITF, Joseph Ari, who disclosed this to journalists at a media briefing in Jos, recently, also affirmed the commitment of the fund to ensure full actualisation of its mandates by gearing up more in skill acquisition trainings that would enhance gainful employment and grow the nation’s economy in 2020. He said the graduating trainees were trained for a period of three months in the last quarter of 2019, adding that they would be empowered with

a start-up packs with which they could begin their own businesses. “They were equipped with skills in nine grades, which include leather works (shoe and bag making), welding and fabrication, catering and event management, production and laying of interlock tiles, furniture making, domestic electrical wiring and installation, solar energy installation, plumping and pipe fitting and lastly auto-gelle and beauty care. “The trade areas were chosen in view of their potential to provide sustainable livelihood of the students. Our commitment to skills acquisition is based on the fact that it’s the most proven solution to combating unemployment, reducing poverty and youth restiveness in the country�, he explained. Ari, also said since its inception, the NISDP has equipped over 450,000 Nigerians with skills for employability and entrepreneurship, vowing to “escalate hands-on skills in all homes in Nigeria.� The projects that would be

commissioned are: the fund’s Lagos Island Area office complex, its headquarters library complex in Jos, the Mechatronics workshop at its Industrial Skills Training Center (ISTC) in Kano, and also the Katsina Area office complex. He said though challenging, ITF has tremendously improved the Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) that was initiated to provide students of Engineering, technical and allied discipline with practical experience, by stepping up engagement with supervising agencies and other stakeholders. The Director General also disclosed that ITF was organising a maiden National Skills Summit in furtherance of its mandate and in line with the Federal Government policy on Youth Empowerment with technical vocational skills. According to him, “The aim of the summit is designed to serve as a platform to articulate strategies and actionable steps for developing employable skills to enhance job creation in Nigeria.�

understanding of your tendencies. You will get a better idea of which emotions get you down, which pick you up and which are the most important for you to tolerate. Secondly, know who and what pushes your Button. We all have buttons. (I fondly call it Mumu button in Nigerian colloquial parlance). You know that conduct or person that irritates you until you want to scream. To use this strategy, you can’t think about things generally. You need to pinpoint the specific people and situations that trigger positive or negative emotions in you. It could be certain people (e.g. a recalcitrant co-worker or client); particular situations (e.g. impromptu reports or meetings) or conditions in the environment (e.g. a noisy office). Having a clear understanding of who or what pushes your buttons makes the people and situations a bit less difficult because they come as less of a surprise. Finally, Seek Feedback. Self-Awareness is the process of getting to know yourself from inside-out and the outside-in. Your experiences, your beliefs and of course your moods will get in your way of having a rich source of lessons that could

come from friends, coworkers, mentors, supervisors and family. When you ask for their feedback, please get specific examples and situations, and as you gather answers, look for similarities in the information. Having the courage to peer at what others see, can get you to a level of self-awareness that few people attain. Conclusion It is important to note that there is no finish line where you will receive a Medal or Certificate of Self Awareness but it is a continuous journey of getting to know yourself inside-out. It should be an ongoing commitment to peeling back the layers of the onion and becoming more and more comfortable with what is in the middle - the true essence of you and a Self-Appraisal on the elements of Emotional Intelligence (i.e. cheerfulness, courage, humility, honour, love, integrity, confidence, joy, hope, fairness, modesty and the Golden Rule). Paying attention to this, will help you build an authentic Personal Brand. -Salami wrote in from Lagos State.

CPE Launches Initiative to Promote Inclusive Education Oluchi Chibuzor To promote and engender educational reforms in the country’s educational sector, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), Concerned Parents and Educators Initiative (CPE) has begun a national advocacy drive. The initiative is aimed at improving the quality of the education in the country and encourage inclusive participation from all sector in the country. Speaking during the unveiling of the National Advocacy Campaign for Transformation in the country’s education sector, the Principal Partner, Edumark Consult and Founder, Concerned Parents and Educators Networks, Mrs. Yinka Ogunde, said it would help raise the consciousness of Nigerians towards education initiative. She said, “There is no bet-

ter time than now to embark on the advocacy for change, considering the gross decay in the education sector, and the danger it portends for Nigerian children now and in the future. “Many people complain that the graduates being churned out of our universities today are unemployable. The question is, why are they unemployable? What are the processes that we need to put in place to make them employable? What are the things we need to do to make sure our children can compete favourably with others across the world? “At this time, we can no longer ignore what is happening in our schools, be it public or private; be it low-cost or high-brow. So, all hands must be on deck to engage key stakeholders: corporate organisation, religious organisations, traditional rulers, com-

munity leaders, parents, teachers, civil society groups and others, let them know that it is time for us to transform the education sector in Nigeria.� Ogunde, noted that the group has chosen February as Education Transformation Advocacy Month, noting the reason is simple, “If we don’t do anything, nothing is going to change. We need people who will be able to take ownership of the problems and not just talk about the problems. It is so easy to talk but it is more challenging to do.� Meanwhile, mobilisation is ongoing in different parts country where CPE has chapters in Abia, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Anambra, Benue, Delta, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Imo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Niger, Kwara, Katsina, Kaduna, Kano, Kogi , Lagos State.

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SMALL BUSINESS SOLUTION

Investing in Commercial Rice Farm, Milling Plant Chris Uba

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he Federal Government of Nigeria has proposed to ban importation of rice to encourage local rice production. Nigerians can start now to prepare grounds to take over the market as soon as the policy takes off. IT may not be easy for Nigerians but banning of those items that can be produced in the country and encouraging the local production of those items is one the ways to come out of our economic problems. It will generate employment; self-sufficiency in food production; development of rural areas, Rice has become a stable food in Nigeria. Every household both rich and poor consumes a great quantity of rice every day. Of the total projected population figure of 150million, about 80% feed on rice, hence the huge amount of money spent on importation of rice annually. From publications made by the federal office of statistics and Federal ministry of finance, of the total foreign debts and importation figures amount to billions of naira, rice importation has the greatest figure of over 60%. The Federal Government of Nigeria must therefore have to do something about this. It is not advisable to impose a total ban on importation without first assuring that the country can produce at least 70% of what is needed in this country. It is based on the above decision, that the Government has entered into agreement with world Bank & ADB to increase the production of Rice in the country. As a result substantial amount are being worked out by the bodies to commence massive production of rice in the country. Some individuals are to be encouraged by the Government to ensure that private sector participated in the venture. In Nigeria today, some states produce paddy rice in abundance due to favorable climatic condition for rice production. Some of these states are Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Abia, Imo, Kwara, Edo, Ogun, Ondo, and some Northern States such as Sokoto etc. Rice milling project will best be sited in these areas where rice is grown in order to reduce cost of transportation of the paddy. To set up this project, a large space is required to dry paddy rice after harvesting. The components of machines required to set up this project are cleaning facilities, Dehuller, Boiling tank, Polisher, Bagger and other miscellaneous equipments such as wheel barrows, weighing scales. Also pickup vans and generating sets are essential for smooth running of this project. These machines can be fabricated locally. They can also be imported from Europe and some known Asian companies that specialize in the area. Prospective investors would be given details on these machine

Rice milling plant produces and specialists. Rice milling could be done on cottage, small, medium and large scale bases depending on availability of capital and the raw materials- paddy rice. Output could be from 2MT to 150MT per day. Generally one metric tonne of paddy rice yields about 60kg- 70kg of milled rice, depending on milling efficiency company management practice and the variety of rice purchased. In the process of milling well parboiled rice free from sand, stones, unpleasant odour with less breakages, etc from purchased paddy, whole rice broken rice and bran are obtained. Whole rice are packed and sold for human consumption. Broken rice is further milled into ‘’Tuwo Shinkafa’’ (a flour meal) while bran is very important input for manufacturing dietary products like rice bran bread which has been acclaimed good for the decrease of blood cholesterol, rice bran oil and livestock feeds. From rice can also be obtained puffed rice, rice cakes, rice pudding etc. The husks are used for the production of potassium Hydroxide solution or as fuel for milling plants. It can be seen that virtually all parts of paddy rice is useful.

From market analysis, the market for rice is National. With the estimated national population growth rate of 2.9% and population figure estimated at over 130million, Nigeria is a large market and demand is so high and local supply, so low that rice importation into the country is a very big business. Hoarding, rationing and smuggling and sharp black market practices were the profitability associated with the business. This situation should not be allowed to continue forever. Those importers must channel their huge returns to establishment of such producing firms in Nigeria instead of fastening the growth of some foreign countries. The huge demand for rice is further accentuated by increasing and expanding urbanization, endless social parties where rice is the main menu, Nigerians eating habits (preference for foreign rice). The preference for foreign rice should be stopped. The likely cost of total project will not actually be stated safely unless one knows the scope (whether cottage, small, medium or large scale) a proposed investor would like to embark upon, the capacity to

produce, the source(s) of the machinery, whether to construct his own building or rent one, the location etc. Therefore to embark upon this project, one needs a business plan (feasibility studies), with detailed costing for all the aspects of inputs, and before he can obtain the likely total estimated cost. To do otherwise is to take a leap in the dark or take our characteristics short-cut to distinction that is always ruinous. In conclusion, rice milling, an agro based business is profitable (35-45% on sales), and sustainable. It has low capital requirement, technical knowhow is complicated. The machinery and equipment are 100% locally available. The project has a short pay –back period. It is highly recommended for serious and aggressive promoters, local and state Governments and private investors particularly those that are thinking good for this country. For details on comprehensive and bankable feasibility studies, investment Advisory services, funding arrangements, please contact the writer. -Uba can be reached through 08034494437

CeedCap Joins Global Startup Network Ugo Aliogo CeedCap has revealed its official membership into the Global Startup Studio Network (GSSN), a network of venture builders, giving start-ups the power to create and grow powerful businesses and make a meaningful impact, wherever they call home. According to a statement, the company, the milestone is a major move for CeedCap on its mission to become Africa’s leading venture builder and impact investor. It also stated that CeedCap’s goal was to create 500,000 jobs across Africa by 2050, through digital innovation and impact investing in remarkable entrepreneurs with ambitious and sustainable ideas.

The statement further noted that start-up in Africa are growing at a rapid pace, but despite the recent successes and heightened global recognition, a lot of entrepreneurs still struggle to appropriately execute their ideas. “The fact remains that a majority of startups still identify poor execution, limited funding, and market access as the primary drivers of most failed innovative ideas,� the statement said. The Managing Partner at CeedCap, Kessiena Majemite, said the studio model of building and launching new ventures have been around for a while, adding that it has not been standardised. He added: “Becoming a GSSN studio means we-like other studios-work to

achieve the gold standard of building and launching more successful impact startups across Africa.� The statement said GSSN provides the highest quality support to studios and their founders, leading to incredible outcomes for startups across the globe, “best known for achieving local impact and global reach, GSSN Studios represents true leadership in the global industry.� Majemite further said: “Our vision at CeedCap is to develop a framework for entrepreneurs to build sustainable ventures by providing the human and financial resources, as well as offer early-stage investors a vehicle to diversify and de-risk their portfolios. At CeedCap, we believe digital inclusion through early-stage investment

is a channel to unlock next-generation opportunity and bridge the poverty gap for African.� “CeedCap is the first start-up studio in Africa to be named a GSSN Studio. This membership gives CeedCap startups, access to a number of opportunities including the following: Investor Connections, Access to a community of investors interested in investing in both studio funds and startups raising capital within the studio. “Corporate Connections: A platform providing connections for portfolio companies out of GSSN Studios to GSSN’s relevant corporate partners. Exclusive Shared Practices: GSSN has in-depth resources containing answers to operational and logistics questions involved with running a studio.�

THIS WEEKEND WEEKLY MAGAZINE

NEWS METRO THISLIFE ART WEEKEND ENTERTAINMENT Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com 08038901925

Nkechi AnayoIloputaife: Grace, Anointing are not Gender Specific

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Nkechi Anayo-Iloputaife: Grace, Anointing are not Gender Specific Twenty-five years after the sudden demise of the founder of Faith Revival MinistriesWorld Outreach akaVictory Christian Church, Bishop Harford Anayo Iloputaife, his widow, Dr. Nkechi, in this interview with MARY NNAH, shared the challenges she faced after his demise, her pet projects, as well as a forthcoming programme tagged“Celebration of the Legend�put in place to celebrate the life and times of her late husband, and other sundry issues. Excerpts; commitment to family life. Church life should be organised around family life. The church must be strategic and intentional with their programme content. We can employ contemporary methods to drive church growth and widen our scope of evangelisation to reach the young ‘unchurched’ demographic of the society without compromising the spiritual content. The church needs the wisdom of God to balance the sacred and secular deliberately or we run amuck, and loose our future leaders who are to uphold godly legacies.

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et’s talk about the forthcoming programme tagged, “Celebration of the Legend� Bishop Harford AnayoIloputaife was the ‘real deal’. He loved God unreservedly and served people selflessly. He was passionate about his call. ‘Church is about people, and I will give my life for it’ reveals his philosophy and principles. He combined ministry and family life well, there was no dichotomy. Though ministry was busy, he found creative ways for his family members. He believed ones’ dedication to God should not be at the expense of his family life. Devotion to God should be seen in our commitment to family life so; he was a great preacher and a great husband. The legend will live in the heart of everyone that truly knew him forever. He was such a phenomenon, a very interesting person to meet. He exemplified Christlikeness in his brief passage, and left a legacy of faith with us. We are celebrating charisma, character, integrity, class etc. His departure was sudden, we were not prepared for it and the crisis introduced more issues that are anything but benign from betrayals and abandonment to conspiracy and intimidation by the powers that be to say the least. In the natural, the ministry didn’t have a chance of survival, but 25 years after, we are still here to the glory of God. In celebrating the legend, the vessel God used to establish this commission who created the spiritual content that has kept this ministry focused on God and His Word, we celebrate God’s goodness and, greatness and faithfulness. Only God could have done this. What does this event really mean to you as a widow, host and the ministry? I am very grateful to God for the opportunity to celebrate 25 years of widowhood, He fought my battles. I was shattered, wounded and abandoned. My future and that of Victory Christian Church was bleak. Some people took advantage of that to create mayhem. Though, I was named the Vice President of the ministry from the beginning, when it didn’t look anything but a child’s play. While he was alive, my office and person enjoyed the respect and the honour of my status. But it was different without him. I had to deal with gender discrimination, plight of widowhood and the loneliness of leadership. Severally in the first five years, I tried to quit, but God won’t let me, and Bishop Mike Okonkwo was of great encouragement. In 1995, we had the flagship church in Victory Village, Onitsha in Anambra State; Isolo in Lagos; Owerri in Imo State and Port Harcourt in Rivers State on rented properties. Today, we have 18 churches in their very choice properties except one. This number may not impress everyone but I am very grateful to God for His grace and mercy. I had to deal with enemies inside and outside, diabolical machinations and stiff satanic oppositions not to mention the harassment and intimidation from the powers that be. I am not where I want to be, but I am very thankful of God’s help these past 25 years. We have entered our Jubilee period having waited out the troubled times which God has turned to His treasures. I am celebrating jubilee.

I said Nkechi Anayo-Iloputife and late husband

The sudden vacuum created by your late husband’s transition to glory marked your leadership for 25 years, how challenging has this been? Quite frankly, it has not been a stroll in the park, but God has been present the whole time. He promised to help me and He did. Generally, leadership across every spectrum is challenging, but the circumstance of gender discrimination is the fundamental problem in my case. God has continued to defend my authority with bold statements of supports in many ways. He is truly the Husband of the widow, and I will continue to depend on Him for every step of the way ahead. This celebration also marks 25 years of my leadership. Haters will criticise me for my mistakes, but before you do, remember I was the chief mourner and did not have a prior preparation for the sudden vacuum. Trust me, God who put me on that seat anticipated the mess and used it anyway. Don’t you think God would have used a man if He wanted, but He chose a woman? With God it is not about gender but grace. My husband raised me to believe that what a man can do spiritually, a woman can as well because grace and anointing are not gender specific. I celebrate God’s help these 25 years so come celebrate with me. I am sure my husband will join well-wishers to celebrate God’s grace upon my life as we kick start the event on February 1. What role would the bishop play in Nigeria and the body of Christ if he were to be around? He was legendary! He actually lived many years ahead of himself. He said things would not get better in Nigeria and around the world because God is shaking and challenging every system that perpetuates its glory above the Glory of God. He was a Prophetic voice. He emphasised that the only way out for the church is faith in the unadulterated Word of God. He upheld the whole counsel of God, but he was post redemption. His character of integrity and excellence would have qualified him as one of the few voices of God in the Christian Community and in the nation. This is the main reason for the satanic and political conspiracy to take him out. But it wouldn’t have happened if God did not permit it. He lived for God and spoke out for Him in his brief but impactful passage. God measures life by significance not duration. It will be a

wasted life to God for one to live a long time for the devil and to perpetuate his personal glory. Let’s talk about the church and the state of the nation, where are we? The church seems to have lost its bearing because of the impact of corrupt and inept leadership. A major component of leadership is influence which the church has lost and therefore has become marginalised. The leaders are occupied with competitive jealousy, self-gratification and aggrandisement, and have had to compromise true Christianity. Syncretism has actively become part of the church today. Our reputation is at an alarming low. We have lost our voice. The decade of 2020, is the period of God’s Glory. It will be marked by divine visitation. The church will come into alignment with God’s agenda in preparation for the Rapture. God is always on top of His game. The political landscape of the nation as well as the economy needs the help of God. The problem of the nation is largely traceable to the failure of the church to live up to its mandate and provide spiritual leadership as the ‘Salt and Light’. But God has plan for Nigeria! Very importantly, generational shift... where are the children born and raised in the church for governance and leadership, especially when the church has abandoned her tasks towards godly families.The erosion of godly values in human families have compromised proper child upbringing which has impacted negatively on the human society. Generational shift has always been part of God’s eternal order. Psalms 145:4. Children are God’s link to successive human generations. God is eternal and humans are transient and as such, every plan of God for mankind must have a provision for carrying it to successive generations, and children are the link. The mood of the 21st Century is not God-friendly, and the impact of Information Technology and social media has exacerbated the erosion of godly values. The family is the bedrock of every institution, the first human institution given to mankind by God. It is the first platform for inculcating values and ethics, and the first unit of socialisation. God gave the church the mandate and authority to uphold family values, so it is the first responsibility of the church to intentionally crusade family values. The pastor’s family should mirror

What should people expect from the event? The event is designed to celebrate God’s greatness and faithfulness, and the memory of His servant every Sunday in February which was his month of birth, death and burial. We have invited some of the leaders that were present in his life, and his friends and colleagues in the College of Bishops created by Archbishop Benson Idahosa, our father of very blessed memory of which such personalities as Bishop David Oyedepo are a part of. My brother and our friend Rev Dr Emiko Amotsuka will be there as usual. Archbishop Joseph Ojo will be speaking. To close the celebration on the last Sunday of the month which is February 23, Bishop Mike Okonkwo. The Sunday services will hold at 9am at Victory Village opposite Trade Fair Complex, Badagry Expressway, Lagos. Also, to commemorate his memory, every Wednesday throughout the month, we will have an interactive session on dating, courtship and marriage at 5pm same venue. He was dedicated to this subject in his time here. He addressed other subjects such as politics and maximised manhood. We expect to receive these eminent personalities, and the grace of God upon their lives will bless the august gathering of God’s people. The memory of the Just is blessed. Proverbs 10:7. The general public are all invited to come celebrate with us as you cried with us 25 years ago. February 18, 1995 was the day the man of God was laid to rest. The motorcade that escorted him from Ikeja to his final resting place invited the stillness and serenity of Heaven. There was a Holy hush throughout the nation. As soon as the casket was lowered, he was saluted by a brief shower. On that day, Nigeria stood still, even the government of the day was not at peace. Contractors across all religions whose services were contracted for Victory Village including the road safety authority of our area mourned with tears. The church community mourned. Come celebrate God’s Goodness with us. God kept us! I especially invite everyone of Victory heritage to come celebrate their Papa. You can only have one spiritual father but many instructors. 1st Corinthians 4:15. See you there! Have you forgiven those who murdered your husband? Sure I have! Forgiveness is freedom

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SPAN Sends Forth 29 Performing Artistes Stories by Mary Nnah Twenty-nine promising and talented young people were last Sunday sent forth into the mainstream society to face life in the real sense of it and also impact on the society in their own little way. This was after being impacted with various skills in dance and music at the Music and Dance Academy of the Society for Performing Arts of Nigeria (SPAN). The event, which was the fourth graduation ceremony of the Dance and Music Academy, had family, friends and well-wisher who turned up in large number to witness the landmark event occasion held at the Grand Ballroom, Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. Speaking at the event, founder of SPAN, Mrs. Sarah Boulos, said, “I am very excited and relieved, because they have finally finished and graduated after we have worked so hard. “It was a two-year pro-

SPAN Music and Dance Academy students rejoicing during their graduation ceremony

gramme, they passed their exams and they are happy today. They are very good students and I hope that they grow and find their way out there and more so, some of them are already working with us, so we are very excited about this set. They are all 29 in number.� Envisaging a better future for the graduating students she, said, “I see them teaching, travelling over the world, going abroad to further their studies and I see some of them already starting their own dance companies.� Few of the graduating students were given special

recognition and also awarded opportunity to travel abroad by SPAN. Speaking on this, Boulos said, “Some of them worked extra hard and passed all their exams and their attendances were top-notch and they performed very well over the years, so they were awarded foreign trip to go and study overseas for few months and we are going to pay all their expenses.� While giving some words of advice to the graduating students, Boulos said, “I believe that if the graduating students want to make more progress,

they have to teach others and impact on their lives – we tag it, “Keep Moving, Pass It On�. “When you pass it on, you have no fear if everything would turn out for good. So, I have no doubt that everything will turn out for good for them and that they would find their ways by helping others.� Speaking further she said, “For us at SPAN, this is the kind of success we can look at after taking young adults through the process of training them to become professional dancers, knowing that they can take the knowledge that

RECTEM Poised to Reshape Entrepreneurial,Vocational Skills In a bid to reshape entrepreneurial and vocational skills with structured curriculum to respond to community needs, the Rector, Redeemer’s College of Technology and Management (RECTEM), Redemption Camp, Ogun State, Dr. Stella Mofunnaya, has reiterated the institution’s commitment to equip students with the right knowledge to be technically productive. Mofunnaya who disclosed this at a press briefing heralding the second edition of the institution’s matriculation ceremony slated to hold on February 7, 2020, stated that the institution is focusing on skilling the students on technical and vocational training. Stressing that RECTEM is research intensive and technologically oriented, she added, “this is based on its set patterns of exploratory innovations. The students are engaged in rigorous academic study as well as practical exploratory discoveries. “Technical education has a high potential to contribute to human development, which is number one goal of the institution. From what the students have developed, it is evidence that the school is interested in building job creators and

L-R: Registrar, The Redeemer’s College of Technology and Management, RECTEM, Mrs. Eunice Ayorinde; the institution’s Rector, Dr. Stella Mofunnaya; Deputy Chairman, Governing Council, Pastor Samuel Olaniyan; and Advisory Council for the college, Prof. Odugbemi during a press conference

entrepreneurial champions.� She added that it is compulsory for the students to gain practical knowledge, not just theoretical steps, regardless of their choice of study as the polytechnic vision is to raise champions in the fields of technology and management. Mofunnaya explained that the college’s vigorous involvement in research and development in technology, through its vision, outside the traditional classroom environment, is to provide its students with an education that is combined with rigorous academic study and the excitement of practical exploration through real-life simulations and extensive learning.

She added that the polytechnic kicked off with 10 programmes in the schools of Science and Technology; Management Studies; Engineering Technology; and Environmental Science, all of which are of international standard and approved by the National Board for Technical Education on the spot. On his part, Chairman of the governing council, Prof. Johnson Odesola, who was represented by the deputy chairman, Dr Samuel Olaniyan said they want everyone to have access to qualitative education especially in STEM education. Olaniyan said the institution has strengthened its

entrepreneurial education such that graduates from the college would parade the entrepreneurial spirit and promote self-reliance. “RECTEM has rebranded technical education as they have created access to good education which covers both the basic need and the strategic need that would yield access to other opportunities. “This is with the view to consider everyone irrespective of class to have access to qualitative education especially indigent students who benefits from their scholarship scheme. “ The institution plans to run part time courses so those who are gainfully employed and intend to get education have access to it. We, therefore, ensure we employ sound and well qualified members of staff to engage the students. “The quality of our training is high and we do not comprise the quality of our students. We are training the middle level manpower, to create a pool of highly trained technicians and technologists that will support the nation’s engineering infrastructural development as well as the growth and development of the country’s small and mediums enterprises,� he said.

Anna DèCodorníu, New Wine Brand, Takes over Nigeria Market Anna DèCodorníu, a new wine brand, is gradually taking over the Nigeria wine market even as it is said to have surpassed its targets for the past year with its wide acceptance, endorsement and unprecedented sales. Expectedly, the brand is fast becoming a headliner in the Nigeria market, known for its quality, class, vintage and delicacy. Anna DèCodorníu, the world’s oldest and secondlargest producer of bottlefermented champagne cava, produced through the traditional champagne method and regarded as a world leader and head liner in prestige and vintage sparkling wine, pur-

portedly, remains the preferred brand that every lover of classy, vintage and quality wine must choose. The MD/C.E.O. D.O.B. Global Associates Limited, Mr. Okiemute Dotie, said, “The past year 2019 was an unprecedented and awesome year for us�. He further revealed that the reception of the brand in Nigeria has been awesome as it now dots the tables at classic events and clubs and it can be found on the shelves of reputable stores and supermarkets. This he attributed as a direct result of the aggressive but very strategic marketing embarked upon by the company via club activations, in-store activa-

tions and other distribution channels activation, which he said yielded the desired and intended result. He noted that the brandAnna DèCodorníu has come to stay in the Nigeria and it’s poised to expand rapidly in West Africa with its high level of acceptance and patronage. He said further that he is very optimistic that the brand will in no distant future become a house hold name in the wine industry in Nigeria, West Africa and Africa as a whole. Founded in Barcelona, Spain in the 16th Century, the Codorníu Winery is the oldest family business in Spain and one of the oldest in the world with over four hundred and

fifty years of history behind it. “Anna prides itself in the usage of quality premium grapes which are carefully selected from meticulously managed vineyards. The vintage Anna DèCodornĂ­u is made of unequalled purity, liveliness and femininity. “Its freshness and delicacy which is underscored by the fruity and floral aromas of its aging makes it ideal as an aperitif and the combination of the Chardonnay variety with the three classic varieties of grapes; Parellada, Xarel, Lo and Macabeo makes it stand out as a sparkling and very fresh cava, healthy when consumedâ€?, Dotie noted further.

they have gotten and still move on and not just remain where they are. We believe that there are lots of opportunities for these artistes within and outside of the country.� Present at the occasion was the General Overseer of Guiding Light Assembly, Pastor Wale Adefarasin. He said, “SPAN is doing a tremendous amount of work in helping people that would otherwise not have had help in being able to express themselves through the arts.� Adefarasin said SPAN has been able to keep the youths occupied, give them something to do and to wake up for in the morning, adding, “SPAN is changing lives�. He described the brain behind the initiative, Sarah Boulos, as creative person who is very passionate about what she does. Olufunmi, a gospel artist who also was a special guest at the event, said, “The students were very impressive; I think it is inspirational to see the work that SPAN is doing; bringing up young people and helping

them to hone their skills and talents; giving them direction, focus and preparing them for higher level. So, I am really impressed.� She said further that skilled impacted on the students will be a source of encouragement for them, adding, “there are a lot of people who are very creative and artistic but are looking out for where they could be trained. “Yes, we have our universities but we know it is not everyone that has the opportunity to go to the university but here we have an academy that is dedicated to the performing act. “So, I think that it is something that is encouraging to the youths; it is something that they would aspire to be a part of, especially those who are gifted.� Olufunmi who has been a part SPAN of for a while now, said, “I am also a performing artiste, a singer, actress, I dance as well but not professionally. So, there is this love for the arts in my heart and I am quite close to the Founder of SPAN, Sarah. So, it is a vision that I identify with.�

The Ballers Awards Celebrates, Reward Excellence The year started on a high note for football lovers as they witnessed what was arguably Nigeria’s most glamourised footballer award ceremony yet, The Ballers Awards. The Ballers Awards was organised by Naija Footballers to celebrate and reward excellence in Nigerian football. The award was hosted by FunnyBone alongside BBC sportscaster Debola Adebanjo and had football legend Mutiu Adepoju, players, journalists and football administrators present. The award which was strictly by invitation was produced by MHFRAME Production; a full multimedia production company dedicated to creating compelling and creative visual content that resonates with viewers regardless of genre, scale or platform. MHFRAME Production which has been part of several national events like the Creative Nigeria Summit, Union Bank @ 100 and has worked with several multinationals such as the Nigerian Stock Exchange, Union Bank, TED and musical artist such as Mr Eazi, Frank Edwards, STUDIIO, Chris Shalom and many others was delighted to be heading the Ballers Awards 2019 and they indeed gave the audience an experience with great on-screen picture quality, seamless transitions between graphics and video and excellent live streaming on YouTube for football fans from all over the world to watch live. Although the event was planned within three weeks, the team at MHFRAME Production ensured that they created a lasting first impression and it was not hard to spot from the entrance of the hall at Oriental Hotel Lagos with the dynamic lighting effect and the entire mood of the night. It was truly a glamourous award night. Marthins Harrison who is the creative director at MHFRAME Production had this to say “At MHframe, we are equipped with the experience and skill to produce stunning, high quality audio-visuals, with our team of enthusiastic young professionals, we ensure to integrate our collective creativity and diverse expertise to create remarkable experience with every event and project. “Whether you’re starting with a vague idea or a fullyfleshed out concept, we at MHFRAME production can bring that idea to life.’’ Harrison is undoubtedly one of Nigeria’s most promising film makers with immense love for his craft. His expertise ranges from cinematography, directing, editing, motion designing and idea development. He is currently the creative director of MHFRAME Production Limited a multimedia company situated in Lagos. Prior to starting his company, MHFRAME, Marthins Harrison worked as a volunteer linear editor, non-linear editor and camera operator before he was employed as a nonlinear editor at Daystar Christian media department. He also worked in Render and Illusion Limited where he worked as a cinematographer, editor, co-director and motion designer. In 2014 he released the first episode of his self-funded documentary titled HULK a true life documentary of a Lagos hawker which was a success and with donations from the public, Harrison helped to change the life of the family that featured in the short documentary film. He has to his credit over 80 music video and TV commercials. He has worked on projects with several clients and brands.

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MUSIC SHOWBIZ

‌Your weekly entertainment delight

NOLLYWOOD

The Long, Tiring Road to the Grammys for Nigerian Acts

Femi Kuti

Seun Kuti

Iyke Bede

Y

ou may be forgiven if you believe that no Nigerian has won the Grammy award. It is untrue. In 2007, percussionist and recording artiste Sikiru Adepoju claimed Grammy glory in the category of Best Contemporary World Music Album (not to be confused with Best World Music Album). He gained this win for being a contributing artiste on the album ‘Global Drum Project’; a compilation effort featuring contributions from acts like Mickey Hart (USA), Zakir Hussain (India), Giovanni Hidalgo (Puerto Rico) among others. Arguably, Nigerians have had ample representatives in the Best World Music Album (BWMA) category; seven times to be precise. BWMA honours acts projecting non-European, indigenous sounds on their album. The recent recipient of a nomination for Nigeria was Burna Boy for his 2019 album ‘African Giant’. Before him, acts like Femi Kuti

Burna Boy

had earned two nods; one in 2012, and another in 2014. Seun Kuti, too, has had an experience with the Grammys two years ago for ‘Black Times’. Other Nigerian musicians who received a nomination in this category for their work as a main act, but never won, including King Sunny Ade and Babatunde Olatunji. In all fairness, Burna’s recent nomination was the loudest, and this comes as a result of many factors. First, his persona alludes to that of a rock star; hence it is no-brainer the number of followers he is able to command. His conďŹ dence is convincing up to a point where his entire fan base placed all faith in him to achieve the impossible. And then there is the efďŹ ciency and agency of social media. Recently, at the 2019 Livespot X Festival that hosted American rapper Cardi B, the ‘Gbona’ singer reassured the crowd that he was going to bring home the Grammy award to the Nigerian soil. Filled with patriotism from his spirited speech, they went into a frenzy. The countdown began in earnest, eliciting numerous Grammy pieces from different online and ofine media platforms,

and not to mention the rally on the microblogging site, Twitter. The Grammy ceremony day came, expectations ran high, and subsequently, fan egos were bruised. Burna had lost to Angelique Kidjo for her work ‘Celia’. Kidjo on her part has won the award twice in the past. In fact, it is safe to call her the face of the BWMA. With this loss came a lot of questions: Will a Nigerian artiste ever win the BWMA for an album? Will the Grammy ever recognise the Nigerian music industry and validate it with just one shiny gramophone? These questions are valid in all ramiďŹ cations. As a matter of fact, Femi got weary with his last nomination, stating that it was going to be as the past ones. And again, he lost to that year’s competition: Gipsy Kings and Ladysmith Black Mambazo (tie). The nomination for ‘African Giant’ is Burna’s ďŹ rst. Although the album did well both commercially and critically, one would only wonder why it lost in this category. For one, Kidjo has garnered a reach and audience Burna has yet to earn in the international music scene. The majority of his global

listeners are millennials, and this proof is seen in the number of social media posts prior to the Grammy ceremony. In contrast, the Grammy committee members who get to vote mostly fall out of the millennial bracket. Still on the aspect of reach, the Grammy committee in charge of voting certainly have a skewed view of what African music should sound like, a fact mirrored in the Oscar’s exclusion of Genevieve Nnaji’s ‘Lionheart’ on the basis of the language adopted. Perhaps, Burna was a bit too mainstream, a bit too pop for their liking. Perhaps they aren’t grounded in the evolution of African sounds; therefore, it doesn’t exactly match with their views. If it is any consolation, Kidjo acknowledged evolving African artistry during her acceptance speech where she dedicated her win to Burna: “The new generation of artistes coming from Africa [is] going to take you by storm, and the time has come.â€? Burna Boy may not have won, but we know he or someone else will break boundaries and bring home the Grammy‌ someday.

Otedola Plans to Support the Film Industry At the recent THISDAY Awards, Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola shared with the well-heeled audience how he wants to spend the rest of his days: by doing goodwill to the less privileged. Otedola was awarded the award for Philanthropist of the Decade for his continuous support to the less privileged, more recently, his donation of N5 billion to the less privileged children in the northeastern part of Nigeria through his daughter’s foundation. Otedola is also known for coming to the aid artistes who.are at the nadir of their life. The recent mission of the philanthropist is to support the ďŹ lm industry. Otedola made this known during a recent visit to Obafemi Awolowo University,

Femi Otedola with wife, Tunde Kelani & Afolayan

Ile-Ife, Osun state where Kunle Afolayan is shooting his upcoming movie ‘Citation’.The youngest

of his daughters, Temi is playing the lead character in the movie which centers on a female post-

graduate student who has to ďŹ nd a way of dealing with the awkward situation of sexual harassment

from a lecturer. Otedola, who was accompanied by his wife and ace cinematographer Tinke Kelani, said he wanted to see what the making of a ďŹ lm looks like, adding that his new interest would be to support the fast growing Nigerian movie industry. This piece of news is exciting for the ďŹ lm industry which is still grappling with funds for productions. With the backing of afuent individuals like Otedola, surely, the ďŹ lm industry will raise its standards and compete favourably with their counterparts. The much advertised ‘Citation’ movie is expected to move locations to Senegal and the beautiful Island of Cape Verde in a couple of weeks.

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New NBC Code Excites Creative Practitioners The new directive given by the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is a piece of good news to a group of creative industry practitioners under a WhatsApp group FILMIC. Mohammed has on January 9, asked the regulating body to immediately implement measures aimed at re-positioning the broadcast industry with a view to sanitising the industry, creating jobs, promoting local content, boosting the advert industry and bringing the broadcast industry up to par with the best practices from around the world. “This was long overdue. People give blood and sweat and tears to ensure the creative industry works and aspects of the old code were stiing and we as stakeholders felt that in this new decade, things have to change and it will change,â€?says creative entrepreneur Obi Asika, a member of FILMIC. One of the signiďŹ cant highlights of the new code include new regulations to compel broadcasters to utilise the content and services of Nigerian independent producers, in fulďŹ llment of the regulatory requirements for 70 per cent local content, which will empower local producers with proper funding and investment, enhance foreign collaborations, develop the local industry, raise the standard of local productions and ultimately lead to job creation. Perhaps, the most remarkable part of the new regulations is that content producers will no longer have their payments delayed.The new law stipulates that they are paid promptly for their adverts and sponsored content placed on all broadcast platforms. More importantly, they must ensure that the adverts are localised to create and promote local production and, where it is not, to attract a charge every time such an advert is aired, with the charge being put into a fund to help develop local expertise in production. The new directive is coming on the heels of a mini colloquium held in October 2019 at Filmhouse,Oniru,by FILMIC which has members drawn from different arms of the creative industry. At that town hall meeting, the group deliberated on the NBC Broadcast Code, and thereafter met with the Minister of Information and

Banky W, Ibejii Attend ‘Joseph’ Premiere22 in Lagos Iyke Bede

Charles Novia, founder of FILMIC

Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, to present their thoughts on the new code. Reactions to the newly amended code by members of the group are ďŹ lled with praise for the federal government. For instance, Nollywood actress and voting member of the Academy Awards, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde said,“This is a good development for the content industry. We are all in this together and we must protect our local industry with practices that empower the stakeholders more.We must begin to think Nigeria ďŹ rst for our creative industry and work together to make this workâ€?. TV content producer, Greg Odutayo believes that a situation whereby foreign content enjoys better airtime is a disservice to the local television industry. “We must do what needs to be done to protect our industry, not for you and I because we are ďŹ ne but for generations to come. Local content is sacrosanct and 70 per cent is not too much. One of the biggest disservices that were done to the TV industry was when this madam in NTA years ago went and bought The Rich Also Cry. “We are still crying till today as foreign soaps took over the prime time.The industry fought and got back the prime time through NBC legislation during Emeka Mba’s tenure, I think, that legislated that

7pm to 10pm must be local content. This was the boom period for TV producers. Ask around. Although a lot of stations were not compliant. We all must ensure that the rules are respected.This is the only way content can get produced and jobs can be created.â€? Odutayo, who is not averse to penalty for producing local content abroad, said:“I absolutely love the bit about paying a ďŹ ne if you produce your commercials abroad. I have produced in Ghana, next door here. I had a company in Ghana and there was a minimum number of Ghanaians that I must employ. Our residence permit allowed us to have only ďŹ ve foreigners. I know the ďŹ ght that I have done over time to protect jobs in Nigeria when I was the president of the National Association of Nigeria Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP). I don’t want to talk about the sports franchise as my knowledge there is somewhat limited, but we must support NBC and the current legislation. It’s a win-win for us all, only if we all support it.â€? Founded by Charles Novia, CEO of the newly establishedTeen Africa TV, FILMIC, since inception in June 2019, has held monthly screenings of ďŹ lms by producers, alongside two unique events namely: FILMIC Mini-Colloquium and FILMIC Old School Evening.

Following a successful debut in Barbados and Accra, Marcia Weekes’ ‘Joseph’ premiered last week in Lagos. The event which was held at Filmhouse Cinema, Landmark Center,Victoria Island, hosted a bevy of top Nollywood stars and media personalities. Some of the top personalities present at the premiere include Banky W and wife, Adesua Etomi, Ebuka Obi Uchendu, Toolz, and soul singer Ibejii.The ďŹ lm’s principal photography took place in three countries: Ghana, Barbados, Banky W and Jamaica. The ďŹ lm’s central plot beams light on the homecoming of Joseph King (played by Jamaican Actor Kevoy Burton), a medical doctor who embarks on a journey to trace his ancestry back to Ghana, post-slave trade Jamaica. Enlightened on African tenets by his grandfather from an early age, Joseph pledged to trace his ancestry to the Ashanti tribe. After a series of unfortunate events that occurs in his adult life, Joseph eventually makes a trip to Africa. Although critical of journeying to Africa for the ďŹ rst time, he elopes, leaving behind his parents who held skewed views of Africa – one inuenced by images portrayed in mainstream media. Contrary to expectations, he is warmly absorbed into the Ashanti community, thus changing his initially held perception of the continent. However, his departure from home marked the beginning of a strained relationship with his parents and siblings who further exacerbates the tension. Elucidating on the ďŹ lm’s tagline ‘Who would you rather be if you were free’, Michael William, a representative of Step By Step Production standing in for Weekes, revealed the ďŹ lm’s aim to tackle negative stereotypes of Africa and its people by projecting it in a positive light to the rest of the world through Joseph’s narrative, and at the same time stir curiosity in coloured people in the diaspora about their lineage to Africa. “It is very much reality based because the western media has done such a great job of making Africa look like a very deprived place where there is nothing happening. So the idea that you would want to go to Africa, people are thinking, ‘what’s there in Africa? There is nothing there except starvation and corruption. Through the ďŹ lm, he discovers that Africa is a beautiful place, it is very progressive in the thing that we can bring to each other, â€? he said. The ďŹ lm which also accommodated Barbadian singer Shontelle, and Ghanaian actors Mawuli Gavor and Sika Osei on the big screen over several months of production, explored the diversity of the African cultures, herbal medicine, and the spirit of inclusivity that marks most African communities. On his part, Burton spoke to the profound inuences these themes will have on all people of African descent. he said: “There is one thread that goes through all of us, and we are all of us, and we are all so similar. So, it wasn’t a big culture shock for me. The story of Joseph reects the views of a lot of people in the diaspora. The media feeds us grim images of Africa. And so we believe. We are afraid to come back to our country. I believe Africa is for all black people. ‘Joseph’ is currently screening in cinemas nationwide

Mima Returns to the Music Scene after Six Years Hiatus Chiamaka Ozulumba

Multiple award winning Nigerian singer, Mary Ikyor popularly known as Mima says she is returning to the music scene after six years hiatus. Before her relocation to the United States of America, the Benue born songstress was already building a burgeoning music career evidenced with her growing fan base, airplays and awards. The last award before her relocation was the Best Dancehall/Reggae Music Video Award at the 2013 edition of the Nigerian Music Video Awards (NMVA). She was also nominated in the Best New Artist Video category same year. Mima has always defined

her style of music as fun and youthful, and at the same time signifying deep meaning. She recently released a new single titled Come Over and she said she is working on releasing the visuals very soon. “The responses and reactions we have been getting from the new single are very encouraging and those are part of factors motivating us to further promote the song. We are planning to release the video for ‘Come Over’ in another couple of weeks. I have recorded other amazing songs as well and in due time, people will have access to them�. Reacting to questions on how she intends to break into

the competitive music industry, she says the uniqueness of her sound will always stand her out. “Those that have followed my career know how deep I am lyrically and the uniqueness of my style. My music reects who I am, a lyrical poetess that does music with no frills.There are still people out there who are yearning for quality music and they know one when they come across it.The music industry has always been competitive and good music will continue to ďŹ nd a medium for expressionâ€?. Mima is a graduate of Sociology from Kogi State University with Masters in Medical and Healthcare InformationTechnologies from the University of Denver, Colorado.

Mima

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͹Ͱ

WARIF Partners EU, UN to Eradicate Gender-based Violence in Tertiary Institutions ner UN agencies, we remain committed to supporting the government and people of Nigeria to end sexual harassment in tertiary education institutions, and all forms of violence against women and girls�. WARIF is a non-profit organisation founded in 2016 by Dr Kemi DaSilva Ibru MD;MPH in response to the high incidence of sexual assault, rape and human trafficking occurring amongst young girls and women across Nigeria.

Mary Nnah The Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF) has been awarded a grant by the European Union and UN under the “Spotlight Initiative� to reduce the prevalence of gender-based violence in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The Joint EU-UN Spotlight Initiative is a global multi-year partnership between the European Union and the United Nations to eliminate all forms of sexual and gender-based violence against women through various implementation programmes and partners all over the world. The Initiative represents an unprecedented global effort to invest in gender equality and women’s empowerment as a precondition and driver for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The project implemented by WARIF, commenced in January 2020 and aims to increase the awareness of sexual and gender based violence and reduce its prevalence by promoting the adoption of polices and strategies or assist in the strengthening of these policies where they already exist to prevent these acts of violence on campuses in select tertiary institutions in Lagos and Abuja.

A cross section of African students in the library

These strategies will also work towards breaking the culture of silence that is pervasive in many of these institutions and reduce the overall incidence of sexual assaults in our universities and colleges. The initiative will be implemented for a period of one year and will target an average of 10,000 students in these selected universities. Speaking on the partnership, Founder of WARIF, Dr. Kemi DaSilva- Ibru, said, “WARIF is proud to partner with the UN and the EU on the Spotlight Initiative to

reduce the prevalence of gender based violence in our tertiary institutions by working directly with the student based organisations and the school authorities in adopting strategies and facilitating and strengthening existing mechanisms that will provide the much needed support and safety to all students on campuses across the country.� She revealed further that WARIF also intends to support all survivors identified in these tertiary institutions with free medical care, psychosocial counselling,

legal assistance and welfare support. On the prevalence of sexual violence in tertiary institutions, UN Women Country Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Comfort Lamptey, said, “Breaking the silence on sex for grades, and exposing the magnitude of the issue, is the first step to ending sexual harassment and violence in tertiary education institutions. “We need laws and policies, both at the level of the institutions themselves and at the national level. As UN Women, along with our part-

Sanwo-Olu Toasts Munachi, 12-year-old Author of Three Books Child prodigy and 12-year-old author, Munachi Mbonu, a student of Atlantic Hall School, Lagos, has received accolades on the publication of her third book titled, Father’s Will. Father’s Will is fantasy interwoven with science fiction, in which the main character, a super cop, demonstrates innate powers to solve earth-shattering cases. Munachi is an author of two previous books titled “Concealed� and “Chidubem�. Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu was among distinguished personalities at the unveiling ceremony. The governor, who was visibly impressed, praised the teenage author and encouraged her not to relent in her efforts. “Munachi is no doubt on a path to greatness. She has defined her path and I must say without a doubt that the sky is her limit�, the governor said.

Mbonu signing an autograph for Governor Sanwo-Olu

The Chairman of Atlantic Hall Educational Trust Council, Mrs. Taiwo Taiwo expressed profound pride in Munachi, describing her as an embodiment of the school’s mission to raise critical thinkers and best talents for the 21st century. Mrs. Taiwo added that the young author is “sound academically, possesses great social skills and is an all-round embodiment of the

great young talents that our nation produces�. “We are especially proud that Munachi imbibed our culture of strong academics, great extra-curricular skills and a fine embrace of innate talent. Munachi is hugely talented�, she testified. The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. Abba Kyari, who inspired the latest publication, Father’s Will, was full of praises for the

author. “If we start encouraging young ones like this, the brain drain will become a thing of the past. Crime will reduce drastically as young ones become more purposeful and aim for their personal growth�, Kyari noted. School principal, Andrew Jedras reaffirmed the school’s determination to consolidate on their track record of excellence. “We have aligned our strategic thinking, planning and direction to ensure that the education that students receive at Atlantic Hall reflects our transformative approach; one that is more than knowledge acquisition, but which at its core, is committed to creating a crop of top-flight young people fit for a global 21st century�, said Jedras. He restated the school’s willingness to sharpen the skills and talents of young students in a bid to prepare them for excellence.

The foundation was established to raise awareness and address the prevalence of this problem through the “WARIF Approach� – a unique holistic method of tackling Gender-based Violence through the development and implementation of a series of initiatives, targeting both the intervention/treatment of these affected women, as well as providing preventive measures in education and community service to reduce the high incidence.

American Business Council Gives over N1.9bn Back to Nigeria as CSR Rebecca Ejifoma To contribute its quota to the Nigerian society, where it currently operates, the American Business Council (ABC) has revealed that over 58 US companies in Nigeria has spent over N1.9billion on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects in the country in 2018. It was a collaborative effort among the ABC, US Embassy, Verraki, KPMG and PwC as mentioned at the recent media launch of the 2019 Nigeria Economic Impact Survey held at the US Embassy in Ikoyi, Lagos. The data and analysis as shown in the report were based on the responses of over 58 US companies operating in Nigeria who completed the survey. In the words of the ABC President, Mr. Dipo Faulkner, these US companies spent over N1.9 billion on CSR in Nigeria in 2018 above N1.5 billion up from in 2017. Among the CSR for 2018, Faulkner listed the five major ones. They are: electrification of 1.2 km road in Ogu community in Rivers State and the construction of a school library in Ogu Government Technical College. Others are: Cervical Cancer Screening programme in Ile-Ife; a developmental programme which uses chess to improve strategic and critical thinking among secondary school students in Lagos state. The companies also planted over 1,000 trees to reduce erosion and trained over 250 farmers on better maize and tomatoes growing practices; and developed Centre for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) facilities in Akwa-Ibom. Speaking also, the CEO, American Business Council, Mrs. Margaret Olele, expressed that the US has increased the ratio of women in her companies in relations to gender equality policy. “One in five board members are women, 20 per cent of the management team are women, and between 20 and 49 per cent of employees in our companies are women,� she said. She spoke further that a lot of the foreign companies were also facing a complex regulatory environment but there had been ongoing active engagement with the regulators. Her words: “Collaborating with the regulators will improve the ease of doing business and unlock a lot of opportunities that US companies could bring to the table.� The ABC CEO, however, assured Nigeria that US companies were compliant with prompt payment of taxes, as they were aware of the implication of evading such. Many of them would not want to disclose such classified information.� In the same survey, the Board Member, ABC and Partner, Price Water Coopers, Mr. Andrei Ugarov, said N1.4 trillion revenue was generated in 2018. While over 66 per cent of these companies identified Nigeria as a regional hub for their operations, over 63.2 per cent of them have local content target, which is reflected in areas such as products, people and supply chain.

Atlantic Hall School Marks 30, as Alumni Gears to Raise N2Billion In the spirit of giving back to the society, distinguished men and women will on Saturday assemble to give back to the school which nurtured the foundation of their success over three decades. The Atlantic Hall School, Lagos, will open its doors to all; homecoming for people eager to improve standards by raising funds estimated at Two billion naira. The targets are a N300 million Endowment Fund; a solar

power scheme worth N200 million and N1.065 billion for a new multi-purpose hall for the school. The school’s alumni will also embark on a five-year transformational agenda titled “Charting a new path�; an agenda driven by the notion “what got us here won’t get us there�. The Ambassadors of the Decade will also be unveiled at an anniversary gala where distinguished members of the alumni will be honoured.

The Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo is expected to lead the pack of well wishers and prospective partners lined up by the school’s management for the grand finale of the 30th anniversary events. No fewer than 10 Ambassadors for the New Decade have been identified. These are described as flag bearers; “men and women who have demonstrated exceptional skills and merit the honour�.

The deserving honorees are Kemi Adetiba, an awardwinning music video director and filmmaker; Omilola Oshikoya, founder of Omilola Oshikoya International, a life and finance coaching company; Seye Ogunlewe, track, and field sprinter, who represented Nigeria at the 2016 Olympics; Mark Okoye, a finance professional and Donna Obaseki-Ogunnaike, an energy law expert.

Others are Amaka Osakwe, founder of the fashion label, Maki-Oh; Matthew Otubu, youth councillor for Newcastle City Council; Ijeoma Balogun, an award-winning journalist and relationship builder; Damilola Ogunbiyi, the CEO and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All and Damola Ladejobi, a UK trained lawyer. The school was founded

in 1989 on the vision of five women namely, Chief Mrs. Taiwo Taiwo, Mrs. Eniola Fadayomi, Lady Gbeminiyi Smith, Dr. Kehinde O. Dina and Mrs. Olabisi Towry Coker as well as other like-minded trustees. The institution has over the years produced trailblazers, inventors, care givers, educators, administrators, entertainers, and all-round achievers at the highest level of society both at home and abroad.

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ART WEEKEND

‌For pure art enthusiasts

ALEXIS Galleries Stage 2020 Residency

Six emerging artists namely OlatundeTaiwo David,Taiwo Owoyemi Sola, Usman Semiu Alvin, Kalu Isaiah, Darlington Alexander Chukwumezie and Akeem Dada shared their residency experience inside ALEXIS Galleries with Yinka Olatunbosun It was like an open-day experience walking in on the six artists on Day 10 of a two-week residency at the gallery domiciled in Victoria Island, Lagos. The artists were working tirelessly day and night to produce works, experiment with techniques and create a professional bond inside Alexis Galleries. Earlier that morning, the Founder and Director, Alexis Galleries, Patty Chadiac Mastrogiannis had revealed to the media that an upcoming exhibition titled, “Fate VI� will hold on February 15 which will showcase the works produced by the artists-in-residence. Laced with her spirit of hospitality, she received the journalists at the galleries, introducing each of the artists briefly before proceeding to the studio which doubled as their shared accommodation. “Fate is our annual exhibition which has been on for six years. I am impressed by the works of these artists-in-residence. The residency is created so that they can learn from one another and grow, exchange thoughts and techniques. A lot of their works are influenced by others and their works have improved with a twist,� she declared. Inside the work space was a typical sight. Splatters of paints, colour-stained brushes, metal scraps, wooden panels and more were discovered at different stands mounted by individual artists.Taiwo, a sculptor who is based in Benin, developed what he called “Repose assembly sculpture� by bringing together pre-formed objects. “The idea of recycling appeals to me. I chose the biodegradable materials like the aluminium cans,� said the environmental artist.He picked most of the cans from the waste from the bar atop Alexis Gal-

Marine Doctor by Darlington

leries and sliced them into rolls of aluminium sheets.The artist who is married with two children admitted that the residency increases efficiency in the artist. Akeem Dada, a painter was fascinated by the live painting of a nude model which formed the subject for most of his paintings. “My strength is in my draughtsmanship and I use that to talk about cultural issues,� he remarked. Dada works with water colour, acrylic and

charcoal with a quietly brilliant canvas statement. Another painter, Usman Semiu Alvin offers rich impressionisticand abstract paintings. In his piece titled, “The League of Gentlemen�, he recounted the erroneous profiling that characterises the human society. “Once, I encountered the police on my way to Warri,� said the artist who wears beaded dreadlocks. “The policemen stopped my and even though there were two other

R&B Communications Partners Isaac Emokpae in “Idea Loom�

persons travelling with me, I was the only one who was interrogated and frisked. Even when I told them that I am an artist, they didn’t believe me. I showed them my works on my phone but they insisted that I must be a ritualist.� Eventually, the police extorted a sum of N5000 from the artist. The graduate of Auchi Polytechnic also has philosophical paintings such as “Heavyweight Champion� and “If Roses were Horses.�

David has been largely influenced by Bruce Onabrakpeya’s and El Anatsui’s style in his wooden panel creations and mixed media works. One of his beautiful pieces is “Swim in Your Own Direction� which portrays a small fish that is not intimidated by the big fish. Others are “The Chess of Life,� and “Cover Up.� Isaiah, another painter-in-residence is the only son in a family of eight girls. “I grew up with ladies and my mother had a clinic where sometimes I would assist her in the labour room. That is why I’m fascinated by female forms which inspire me,� he said. One of his paintings addresses the subject of body shaming. With Isaiah, there is no limit to what he can paint. From body painting to sneakers, jackets and wearable art, he breathes of commerce. Darlington Alexander, a sculptor and graffiti artist, was born in Anambra state, raised in the Northern part of Nigeria and has lived most of his adult life in Takwa Bay, Lagos. “I worked on panel, wood etchings and found objects mostly sourced from the seaside. Even his nose ring was picked from the seaside. His spray paints drawn from graffiti art characterised some of his works about marine life with titles such as, “Marine Doctor�, “Inside Life: Secret Drawings� and “Mystic Island�. He expresses his concern for the forceful evictions in Takwa Bay and pleaded that government should provide a settlement for the displaced persons. The residency and exhibition are proudly sponsored by Pepsi,Tiger Beer, Indomie, Mikano, Wazobia, UPS, Cool FM, Delta,Cobranet, Artcafe and The home stores.

JangguwithPapaTakesBarigaCommunity Yinka Olatunbosun

Yinka Olatunbosun The lush view, with a tennis table, at the new office of R&B Communications in Ikoyi, Lagos, was swarmed by some members of the creative industry last Thursday as R&Bannounced its 2020 Creative Partnership with Isaac Emokpae, one of Nigeria’s finest abstract expressionist painters. A tour of the facility revealed an array of thought-provokingwall and floor paintings as well as an old typewriter as installation: a major attention-grabber. The first in its series, ‘The Idea Loom’ is Isaac Emokpae’s interpretation of the synergy between R&B Communications and its publics; a unique call for unison, harmony and sustainability in business. The artist described ‘The Idea Loom’ as “homage to ideas; a celebration of thought and its power, which when properly weaved and harnessed can achieve great and far-reaching consequences.’ Threads run across the work space with significant meaningas the artist used them to represent the interconnectivity of the human experience at work and in personal relationships. Emokpae joked about how he restrained from placing too much of the ropes in the space for the ease of movement. Next, visitors were ushered into the room where idea are brewed. In it, all sat on the floor that had been painted with metallic enamoured paint to give it a sparkling effect.

The Korean Cultural Centre, Nigeria in collaboration with Drumsview Concept organised a special concert for the graduating class of Janggu and Salmunori Drumming Workshop drawn from Bariga last weekend in Lagos. Held at the Seaside cottage, near Unilag Waterfront, the experience was a heart-warming one for parents many of whom had never witnessed such bedazzling phenomenon. The Founder, Footprints of David, Seun Awobajo recalled how the workshop took-off during the welcome address.Bright Achievers Schools was established by Footprints of David Art Foundation to provide education for children in less privileged communities. The school was the first to have this Janggu workshop instituted for the benefit of the students. “For six months, they have been undergoing rigorous training. We are the first school to be selected for this training. These children have done a course that is worth N550,000 each. Please, help the children keep this certificate. Don’t laminate it. Scan and save it in your emails,� he said. The show kicked off with the Fishermen dance performance at the sand-filled stage. The Janggu drums then began, first tentatively and much later, increased in tempo as the boys showcased their skills with vigour and Korean chants. A wall painting and typewriter installation by Isaac Emokpae

Emokpae gushed about the freedom he enjoyed while working on this project with a tight deadline. He conceptualised and executed the paintings and installations without interferences from the R&B team. Adeoye Omotayo, Executive Director, R&B Communications, remarked that “R&B PR has enjoyed a very long, deep and meaningful relationship with Nigerian arts, culture, film, music and entertainment over the years. We are therefore honoured to have top talent from this growing sector treat our walls and our space as canvas for showcasing the incredible work that they do.�

Each of this wall painting series will last for 12 months as pointed out by Remi Okunlola, Partner Chair of R&B Communications. “The Idea Loom will adorn the walls of our headquarters for the next 12 months, when another of the nation’s foremost creatives will be invited to shine their creative floodlights on the next 12 months of our collaborative endeavours,� he declared. With his artistry, Emokpae appropriates simple application of varied media to evoke deep psychological reflection. The doors of R&B Communications are open all year round to view this phenomenal work by Isaac

Irantiola, Soyinka and Orimoogunje at the just-concluded LABAF

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with DR. KEMI AILOJE Info@lifelinkfertility.com; Website: lifelinkfertility.com 08033083580

Age Related Infertility(Ari) Part 1

Scientific evidence shows that in women, fertility peaks in mid 20s and starts a steep decline in mid 30s despite this so many people still postpone starting a family. Some modern women want to focus on education, build their career, and of course some want stable financial base, or the “right man� may not be coming, so the need to wait for ‘’the perfect partner’’. Whatever the reasons for delaying parenthood are, it is however unfortunate that the natural clock doesn’t stop ticking hence the human body keeps aging inevitably. It is a fact that in today’s society, inability to conceive due to age is becoming much more common because women are waiting until their 30’s and 40’s to have children. Although many women are healthier in later life and taking better care of themselves, this does not stop the natural agerelated decline in fertility. Recent reports from the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) have shown that more women are delaying childbearing at the present time than previously. This trend is expected to cause a corresponding rise in the mean age at which women first present with infertility and this brings usto the discussion for this week: AGE RELATED INFERTILITY as it affects both males and females.

are also more likely to have health problems that may interfere with fertility making pregnancy and delivery of a live birth more difficult.

WHAT IS AGE RELATED INFERTILITY: This is the decline in fertility that comes with age, seen in bothmen and women. It is a known fact that age related Infertility affects both sexes, its effect is however seen much earlier in women than in men. Women 30 years and above have reduced quantity and quality of eggs in their ovaries while male fertility starts to decline after 40 years when sperm quality begins to decrease. All these automatically increase the risk for chromosomal abnormalities like having too many or too few chromosomes (aneuploidy) which might result in conditions such as, implantation failure, Down syndrome and even higher chances of miscarriages. Older women

The Facts: Women, Age and Fertility Women in their 20s have a 20-25% chance of achieving pregnancy during their ovulation period. This drops to 15-20% for women between the ages of 31 years and 35 years and to less than 10% for women ages 35 years and older. By 40 years women typically only have a 5% and by 45-49 years a 1% chance of becoming pregnant without fertility treatment per month. Women are born with all the eggs they will ever have, unlike men who typically make new sperm throughout their life. Each month many eggs begin to develop, only one or two reaches maturation and eventually ovulates (releases), the others undergo a process called

atresia (degeneration). This process occurs in intrauterine life (before birth), before puberty, and during a woman’s reproductive years, even while pregnant or on oral contraceptive. This progressive loss of eggs over a lifespan results in low egg numbers (quantity) that result in lower pregnancy rate beginning usually in the 40’s. There is also a corresponding loss in the quality of the eggs over time. As eggs age, they become less able to fertilize or even implant normally and are more likely to result in a pregnancy that miscarries. In addition, for a variety of reasons the process is accelerated in some women whose egg quantity and quality is low at a much younger age e.g. those diagnosed with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI). Although the average age of menopause (no remaining egg) is about 51 years. The decrease in

the ability to conceive due to low egg quality and quantity occurs long before, usually beginning in the 30’s and becoming more pronounced in the early 40’s. Womenin their late 40’s rarely have a spontaneous pregnancy and if so, one in three will miscarry. It is due to this sense of urgency that women 35 years and above should consider visiting fertility experts for evaluation and have their fertility profiling done as soon as they suspect difficulty becoming pregnant. If a woman’s egg quality or egg number is lower than expected for her age, there may be a discoverabletreatable cause. Are there other factors that can decrease ovarian function in women apart from age such as Endometriosis, Severe pelvic adhesion, Previous chemotherapy or radiation, history of smoking, ovarian surgery or removal of a portion or all of an ovary or both, genetics (Turners syndrome) etc. However, decreased ovarian function can also occur in women without these predisposing factors. The cause of an early loss of eggs in some women is sometimes not clear, but it is thought to be due to genetic factors with or without a family history of early menopause. The rule of 3’s- if a healthy woman irrespective of age, has conceived and made it up the first trimester, her odds of the pregnancy resulting in a live birth are almost the same regardless of age. The chances of having a good outcome and a healthy baby are very high. Of course all routine testing are still recommended during prenatal care. It is worthy of note that the process of egg loss happens at a predictable and steady rate even if a woman takes good care of her health and looks young physically. Both egg quantity and quality determines a woman’s ability to conceive and both are influenced by age and it is important to note that pregnancy is often possible with the right combination of treatment by fertility specialists. To be continued

Chibuike Aguodo

Enugu LG Election and Needless Nsukka Protest

I have followed with keen interest the needless and sponsored protest in Nsukka recently by some hired crowd against the Nsukka Peoples Democratic Party stakeholders’ consensus choice of Mr. Patrick Omeje (Jnr) as the party’s candidate in the February 29 council election in the state. The rented protesters, who claimed to be aggrieved PDP members in the council area, stirred up a hornet’s nest when they burnt down the party’s headquarters at the Nsukka. In a bid to bring the tensed atmosphere under control, the stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party in Nsukka Local Government Area have apologised to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi over the unwarranted protest by some aggrieved members of the party. Addressing newsman shortly after their meeting in Nsukka, Mr. Chinedu Nwamba, member representing Nsukka East Constituency in the State House of Assembly, said the meeting was convened to review the ugly events in the area. Nwamba, who spoke on behalf of the other stakeholders, said that the stakeholders condemned the protest and burning down of the party’s office by some miscreants on January 18. While the stakeholders’ action is highly commendable and a step in the right direction, they should have done more by naming and shaming those behind the protest. They are not spirit. They are known and operate within the party as moles. If not, why do they sponsored a protest after being part and parcel of the party’s consensus arrangement that produced Hon. Patrick Omeje jnr as the party’s candidate for the election, only to turn around few days after to covertly sponsored a protest against a decision they had earlier endorsed. Investigating and analysing the whole scenario, one needs no soothsayer to know that the sponsors of this shameful and

needless protest against the party’s decision on the consensus candidate are desperate politicians who want the chairmanship seat by all means, even when their popularity and acceptance among party members are nothing to write home about. If they are popular as they would want the public to believe, why not defect to another party and test their popularity, instead of instigating unwarranted crisis by sponsoring protest by proxy. Naming and shaming the sponsors and possibly prosecuting the protesters they hired for arson will serve as deterrent to others. It is obvious that some mischief makers and hypocrites masquarading as PDP members in Nsukka Local Government Area are taking advantage of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s consultative, peaceful and participatory style of governance and politics to overrate their political value and influence in the area. That is too bad of them. It is either they are not good students of Enugu and PDP politics and leadership in the state since 1999 or they are mere hypocrites and paperweight politicians with no value. Lest we may have forgotten, since 1999, consensus arrangement to arrive at candidates for elective positions has been synonymous with the PDP both at the state and national levels. Enugu is not different. In short before Ugwuanyi’s emergence as governor in 2015, party stakeholders in the state have limited or minimal input or contribution on who becomes the party’s candidate for any elected or appointive position. The practice then was that immediately the Lion in the Lion Building Government House Enugu in the person of the elected governor roared, everyone Dick and Harry in the party will keep quiet and be attentive to take directive from the Lion on what to do. It is at the governor’s behest that few party stakeholders could be allowed or invited to make contributions at party’s critical

decision-making. Then, the governor’s decisions or words on any issue is binding on the party faithful because he is not only the party leader, he is the face of the party both in the state and at the national level. But immediately Ugwuanyi assumed office, he jettisoned and demystified the myth that surrounds elected governor in Nigeria and makes his government more participatory, accessible and consultative. He does not only engage or interface with party stakeholders and leaders in virtually every issue that has to do with party politics and governance, he ensures that the final outcome of such decisions are reflective of their contributions. Ugwuanyi throws wide open the gate of Lion Building Enugu, party faithful and residents troop in and out of it everyday, inclusive of weekends to dialogue and brainstorm with the governor on issues affecting them. This unique governance style of Governor Ugwuanyi has given the Ndi Enugu sense of belonging in the affairs of the state. That was how party faithful with no godfather and godmother became recognised and rewarded in the party after many years of making meaning contributions and support to the party with nothing to show for it. Mostly favoured in this direction are youths and the women at the grassroot level. This has not gone down well with some entrenched godfathers in the party that have oppressed members for years now. It was this same consultative and participatory style of Ugwuanyi’sadministration that the governor used in engaging party stakeholders in 17 council areas in the state before they happily and unanimously arrived at consensus party candidates for the February 29, 2020 local government election in the state. And if one may ask, what is undemocratic and illegal about political party adopting consensus arrangement to arrive at choice of their candidates in an election?

Absolutely nothing. The arrangement has reduced drastically intra party crisis that usually characterised and trailed pre and post primary and election crises. So why the hullabaloo and fuss about the Nsukka PDP stakeholders’consensus arrangement that produced Hon. Patrick Omeje jnr as the party’s chairmanship candidate for the forthcoming local government election? Why? Why didn’t those that later sponsored protest against his choice object publicly to the decision when it was taken by the majority among them? Is not surprising that out of the 17 council areas in the state, where the PDP stakeholders and party leadership made choice of thier consensus candidates for the council election, it was only in Nsukka that some few party leaders sponsored protest against the exercise? This has showed clearly that the protest has the hand of Esau and voice of Jacob. By their ignominious act, they have shown that they are not mature enough poitically and they are cowards. It is clear that neither the party candidate for Nsukka Council Area, Hon. Patrick Omeje jnr nor the PDP faithful in Nsukka is intimidated or baffled by the antics of those behind the protest. This is especially when it is known that their major aim was to discredit the arrangement, probably draw the sympathy of the people and attention of the state government. Unfortunately for them, neither the state government nor majority of the people in Nsukka are interested in their shadowchasing and selfish protest, having known that the process of arriving at the PDP consensus candidates in 17 council areas of the state was peacefully and legally concluded without any hitches, by the party leadership and stakeholders in line with the party constitution and traditions. t$IJCVJLF "HVPEP B 1%1 ZPVUI MFBEFS XSPUF GSPN 0EFOJHCP /TVLLB &OVHV 4UBUF

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COLLAGE EVENTS

Honeybols Foundation Donates Maths Skill Game to Schools Ezekiel Okpuzor

L-R: Associate with America to Africa Consulting, Ms. Hope Egwu; President & CEO, WVL Development Advisers Limited, Dr. Waheed Olagunju; Director & Senior Legal Counsel, Sub-Saharan Africa- Kimberly Clark, Mrs.Tayo Fagbamigbe; former Minister of Industry/Consultant to Kimberly Clark., Chief ( Mrs) Nike Akande; Hon. Minister ofTrade and Investment, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo; Hon. Minister of state for Industry,Trade and Investment, Ambassador Maryam Katagum; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry,Trade and Investment, Mr Edet Akpan; Principal America to Africa Consulting- Engaged as Consultant Advisor to Kimberly Clark, Ms. Jeannine Scott; Head of Government Relations, Kimberly Clark, Miss Zainab Obagun and Director, Federal Ministry of Industry,Trade and Investment, Mr Adewale Bakare, during a courtesy visit by Kimberly Clark (Makers of Huggies) to the Hon. Ministers of Industry, Trade and Investment in Abuja... recently

In a bid to make learning easier and faster for pupils through modern techniques, Honeybols Foundation recently held a three-day mathematics training program for some schools in Lagos State. The event which was held in Lagos recently with the theme: ‘Burnley Maths Skill Program’ trained and empowered Girls Junior High School, Government Junior Grammar School, MD Nursery and Primary School, Agidingbi Junior Grammar School, St. Agnes Primary School and Saka Tinubu Memorial Primary School. In the maiden edition, the three-day program started with free donation of Maths Skill table and simple technique on how to operate the Maths skill game was well embraced by the beneďŹ ciaries as they were all full of excitement with the new means of engaging students in mathematics skill. According to the Convener, Honeybols Foundation, Mrs Adebimpe Akinfolajimi, “The mission of the foundation is to empower and educate some of the world’s most vulnerable children by providing opportunities to heal, learn and grow. “Our mission with this Maths Skill Game was to encourage both primary and secondary school pupils to pick interest in mathematics and also to make the teaching of mathematics easier for their teachers. “And over the years we have been able to empower over 150 widows and reached out to over 3000 widows and women in food stus, clothing and household items.â€?

L-R: Minister Rotimi Babajide, PastorYinka Adeyemo, Lead Pastor, Grace and Glory Chapel, Prof. Mike Adebamawo; Pastor (Mrs)Yemi Adebamawo; Apostle Bank Akinmola, Pastor (Mrs) Sharon Akinmola, Minister Titi Jinadu and Pastor Sim Abraham Eke , at the 5th anniversary of Grace and Glory Chapel Opebi, Lagos... recently

Convener, Honeybols Foundation, Mrs Adebimpe Akinfolajimi with some of the students

Pacprocess Middle East Africa 2019 Fair to Hold in Cairo Mary Nnah

L-R: Minister of Interior Aairs, Rauf Aregbesola; Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu and the Minister of states, Power, Goddy Agba at the ďŹ rst Federal Executive Council meeting held at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja...recently GODWIN OMOIGUI

L-R: Group Managing Director, Zedcrest Capital Group, Saheed Adedayo Amzat; Area Sales Manager, GSK Nigeria, Nnena Ogoke; Marketing Executive, Sebeccly Cancer Center, Blessing Dolapo; Managing Director, Zenfix Nigeria Limited & Convener We.Share Foundation,Taibat DayoAmzat; Project Manager, Sebeccly Cancer Centre, Dr Awele Okeke; at theWe.Share Foundation charity event held in Lagos...recently

In collaboration with top exhibition management firms, the IFP group and Konzept exhibitions, interpack alliance through Messe Dusseldorf, recently organised Pacprocess Middle East Africa 2019 Fair - the newest addition to the interpack alliance. interpack alliance is the global umbrella brand for the leading international packaging and processing trade fairs for food, beverages, confectionery, bakery, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, non-food and industrial goods sectors. Held for the first time at the Egypt International Exhibitions Center in Cairo, from December 9 to 11, 2019, pacprocess mea capitalised on the mega opportunities present in one of the major economic hubs in North Africa - Egypt, and featured solutions for food & agriculture, beverages, personal care and household, cosmetics and beauty, pharmaceutical and medical, luxury, industrial and transport, as well as point of sale packaging. Speaking on the fair, Bernd Jablonowski, Global Portfolio Director Processing & Packaging at Messe DĂźsseldorf, stated that strong decision-makers with know-how for trade fairs were brought together for pacprocess MEA. This included an advisory board composed of high calibre representatives of international companies from the food, pharmaceuticals and confectionery/pastry industries as well as from numerous Egyptian state organisations and associations – which is a first for a trade fair held outside our home base in DĂźsseldorf. “The establishment of interpack alliance as the umbrella brand was a logical step underlining our unified strategy. It stands for our international expertise in the packaging sector and related process industries while at the same time communicating the leading role of interpack,â€? Jablonowski added. He also spoke on the fair’s progress between 2017 and 2019, stating that, as the leading international trade fair for the industry, interpack 2019 attracted 3,000 exhibitors from over 58 countries. “The fair presents a comprehensive international range of products, including the latest in packaging systems and machinery, packaging materials and confectionery machinery in 19 halls covering over 2 million square feet net of exhibit space. At the show’s last staging in 2017, over 170,500 international visitors including thousands from West Africa participated in the event.â€? He added that as there are vast import and export opportunities for West African businesses to showcase cutting-edge technologies and forge lucrative partnerships, it is therefore imperative for businesses to participate in what will bring together local and international industry stakeholders from across the entire value chain.

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LIFE

New Lease of Life for Physically Challenged Maths Teacher Mary Ovie Mary Ovie reports that at the recently held Fidelity Bank 2019 Year End Party, it was a new lease of life for a physically challenged Maths teacher, Michael Sowunmi, who was given employment by the bank, just as it drew attention to its youth empowerment initiative in Nigerian universities

MD/CEO, Fidelity Bank PLC, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo, with the physically challenged Maths Teacher, Michael Sowunmi

Tim Godfrey The MD and the Chairman

The MD with the Youth Empowerment Academy (YEA) beneďŹ ciaries

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idelity Bank Plc has brought succor to physically challenged Chemical Engineering graduate, Mr. Micheal Sowunmi, who is fondly referred to as “the world’s greatest teacher� on account of his love for teaching. Mr. Sowunmi has been offered employment by top lender Fidelity Bank as a facilitator at the bank’s training academy known as CREST Academy. This much was revealed by the bank’s CEO Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo during the bank’s 2019-Year End/Customer Appreciation Party which took place at the weekend in Lagos. Okonkwo said the move was consistent with the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy aimed specifically at uplifting the less privileged members of society. He spoke against the backdrop of the theme of the party ‘Give them wings’ which he said was was crafted to underscore the bank’s CSR initiatives and interventions. “ We saw his video on YouTube and we were moved by his courage, determination to give back in spite of his physical condition. Consequently we unanimously

decided at EXCO to come to his aid with the offer of employment and provision of a car for ease of mobility. He went on to say that Sowunmi’s case is not an isolated one. “We have indeed demonstrated our passion for lifting people several ways as you have seen tonight with the case of Tim Godfrey and DJ Slim V and the Fidelity Youth Empowerment Academy�, he explained. Before he was called up to mount the stage, his video tagged the ‘World’s Greatest Teacher ’ was played showing the difficulties he faced in navigating his way to and fro from school just to teach. What stood out for many in the hall of Eko Hotel and Suites was not just his disability, but his resilience and disposition towards it. He radiated a peaceful and cheerful mien. Thus, when he was callead up stage, he was met with a thunderous applause. Walking to the stage proudly in his dapper suit, alongside his mother, he succinctly commended the bank, adding that “they are not just a bank, they are a bank with integrity�, a statement that was met with another loud applause from the teeming customers. Fidelity Bank is also committed to empowering the youth of Nigeria this

DJ Slim V

leading to the establishment of an empowerment initiative known as the Fidelity Youth Empowerment Academy. Some beneficiaries of the initiative that had been in existence for the last four years were recognised and showcased by the bank during the party. Whilst giving insights to the youth empowerment academy, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Ernest Ebi, described YEA as a veritable platform to make beneficiaries financially independent and self-reliant. “Fidelity Bank is making the youths turn their passion into a pay cheque through empowerment programmes which includes vocational training in fashion, make-up, coding, catering and more� he said. Ebi said the programme seeks to empower Nigerian undergraduates with vocational skills and enterprise training which are relevant for self-reliance. Over 2000 students have benefited from YEA programs at University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Waziri Umar Federal Polytechnic, Birnin-Kebbi; Federal Polytechnic Oko; Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt, and Bayero University, Kano. Some beneficiaries who have since started their own businesses were recognized at the event.

On Tim Godfrey, Okonkwo said the ba bank is fully supportive of him in spite of the fact that he does not play secular m music, just as it has thrown its weight be behind DJ Slim V who was discovered fr from a chance encounter at somewhere in the eastern part of the country. “Today, we have given them a platform th big to perform and showcase their this cr craft to the admiration of all. We urge yo to patronize them so they can grow. you Th These energies they are displaying could ha been channeled to negative vices� have he stated. The annual event which lasted to the w wee hours of Friday last week had in at attendance key stakeholders, customers an prospects including public office and ho holders, traditional rulers, regulators and po policy makers. KCee of Five Star Music, N Niniola, Timaya and Flavour performed at the party whilst comedians, Bovi and La Larry J thrilled with rib cracking jokes. Some of the dignitaries at the event w were Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, D Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi H Hamzat; Minister for Transportation, Ro Rotimi Amaechi; Alhaji Nasiru YusufG Gawuna, Deputy Governor of Kano St State; Mr. Ernest Ndukwe, Chairman M MTN Nigeria, among others.

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ENTREPRENEUR

Maryam Adebola-Salami: Showing Resilience in Entrepreneurship Founder of Mobaby Care, Maryam Adebola-Salami is a resilient entrepreneur. In a recent chat with Ayodeji Ake, she went down memory lane on her journey as a female entrepreneur and how she triumphed against all odds Maryam Adebola-Salami is an entrepreneur and an innovative enthusiast with over seven years of management and leadership experience working in the information technology firm, fashion and manufacturing industries. She holds a first degree in Zoology, and is a certified skin scientist and an organic formulator expert, yet, one of Nigeria’s most successful entrepreneur. She is currently the Founder and Lead Formulator at Mobaby Care Nigeria, a baby and child specific, all-natural skin and hair care solutions company. As the first of five children, she had always wanted to be the first in all she does. Damning the shame of being mocked as a street hawker while in school, she sold her excess wares to her friends who wanted more. In her first three years as an undergraduate, she moved goods from Lagos to Ilorin for sale. “I always tell my story, always. Telling my story has brought me more success than my actual knowledge or businesses. I am the first child of a family of five, whose both parents are also first of their family. So the pressure to always succeed and come out first has always been on me and these experiences moulded me into who I am today. I have done loads of work from hawking on the streets of Mushin to managing Time Stores and even doing dropships. “My first three years in the undergraduate school saw me moving goods from Lagos to Ilorin every weekend to make ends meet, You see why I do better on the road? I actually, do not see these experiences as struggles rather as roadmaps to success. They have made me strong through life challenges and also made me street smart,� she reminisced. She is also very passionate about women and children contributing to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, hence, she created ‘The Made Woman Initiative to help women create and live a sustainable life. The Rough Journey In her conversation with THISDAY, she said being a woman entrepreneur wasn’t as smooth as any woman will think of but she persisted on being successful regardless of gender as she got more intoxicated in entrepreneurship to be one of the celebrated successful women in Nigeria. “Being an entrepreneur is tough, being an entrepreneur in Nigeria is tougher and then being a woman entrepreneur in Nigeria is almost unachievable but we have countable

pain due to this heartless act. I began to use my undergraduate knowledge to research possible solutions. They didn’t come easy to find and testing wasn’t cheap. “I was running another business at the time which became the funding rock of Mobaby Care after two years of fine tuned research and studies we decided to launch out in 2018 and so far it’s been one growth or the other� she said.

Adebola-Salami

women who have broken rules and made history which is what constantly motivates me to be better and strive harder to break new walls. So far, with the support of other women entrepreneurs and numerous available trainings and mentorships, women entrepreneurs such as myself have been set up for greatness and always ready to recognise and grab opportunities� she said. As a serial entrepreneur who quickly gets attached to any striving business that brings money, Adebola-Salami got the business innovative idea of Mobaby Care, one of the leading baby and child specific, all-natural skin and hair care solutions company in 2016 when her baby suffered from substandard synthetic oil. “In 2016, when I had my daughter I was unfortunate to get a synthetic oil as my child’s first cleansing oil and this left us with a terrible experience. I couldn’t just phantom why anyone would make fake baby care products or substandard ones at that. I mean these are babies, they do not deserve it. So, I started my business from a pain point of having to watch my child go through lots of

What Worked When asked how she was able to grow her business without a loan from a financial institution, she said: “We have never approached any facility for loan but have been exposed to seed investments such as the #biodunandibikunle foundation, AGS TRIBE, Redefine Africa Foundation, and Enterprise Development Centre. Most of which came inform of priceless education, training and networking programs “What I can say also I guess I am just a typical Nigerian, smiling through the hurdles and always hoping for the best. For us at Mobaby Care Nigeria we are fueled by our passion for the SDG 3: good health and wellbeing of women and children. And we achieve this with our ‘I Can’ spirit. So regardless of where we find ourselves our driving force is beyond any external force. Vision “Our vision at Mobaby Care Nigeria is to be the go to, innovative, sustainable and eco-friendly baby care brand in Nigeria and Africa At large. While continually striving to provide holistic approach to solving skin and hair care problems using natural, safe, healthy and effective solutions with absolute care and nuture. So watch out for production plant and numerous distribution channels accross all African countries� she said. Giving Back to Society Adebola-Salami through her ‘The Made Woman Initiative’, has been able to give to the society by empowering and mentoring women on work and life balance. “I run a women empowerment platform ‘The Made Woman Initiative’ where I teach women about work and life balance and integration, application for opportunities and business development and management. In 2019 alone, I have been able to help develop over 20 businesses from the idea stage to market entry level.

“I also organise a networking platform #chillandsip for women to have fun, relax and not having to worry about their children for the day as they are being catered for by professionals. I hope to do more of this year as women are exposed to so much work and do not get to let their guards down and soon as they marry or begin to have children. I am also a member of Young African Leaders Initiative which provides a platform for an entrepreneur like myself to train and mentor other start-ups� she said. Charge to Government She charged the government to create flexible policies to enable a business-striving environment. “The government needs to create flexible policies and tax windows for MSMEs , its already difficult to have to deal with bad roads during logistics and distribution of our finished products and having to run on fuel to sustain our production timelines. The Micro businesses are the future of the industrialisation in Nigeria, we need to be nutured and provided for through transparent and impartial seed invests, grants and even standardising our laws to make exports easy and encouraging� she urged. About Mobaby Mobaby Care is an all natural baby and child skin and hair care solutions company that uses natural resources, plant extracts that are nutrient dense to help soothe and nurture the African child’s skin and hair while protecting it from free radicals. “Baby care industry is worth over six billion dollars, so it is sad to see that indigenous brands are not up to 20 per cent and that is why our babies are exposed to toxic chemicals and products that are not fine tuned to the African and Nigerian skin. “At Mobaby Care Nigeria, our products are made in Nigeria by Nigeiran moms who understand the absolute importance of child care and we follow the good manufacturing practices to the highest standard. We currently have a user community of over 7,000 parent and care givers. Our products are accessible, affordable and effective. We hope more parents move towards Green and choose safe options like the Mobaby Care products such as our moisturisers, cleansers and even enhancers inform of the mosquitoes repellant to help curb the malaria menace and much more.

Dr. Elizabeth Mensah: Bridging Loan Gaps Mary Ovie writes that for the Chief Executive Officer of Blackstone Capital Limited, Dr Elizabeth Mensah, her passion lies in bridging loan gaps, especially for entrepreneurs and small businesses

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inance technology company, Blackstone Capital Limited has promised to put an end to the difficulties experienced by Nigerians just to access loans in the country. Blackstone, a finance institution, was set up primarily to bridge lending gaps in the activities of Nigerian commercial banks to individuals and small businesses in the wake of Nigeria’s renaissance as Africa’s business hub. According to the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Blackstone Dr Elizabeth Mensah, the company is an innovative retail finance institution offering lifestyle products and services that suit the financial needs of our multi-segmented clientele base. The company commenced business in April 2019 with a firm commitment to change the face of micro-lending in Nigeria. According to her, “At Blackstone, we pride ourselves as being tenacious, responsive, unique, service oriented and transparent (TRUST) in all our dealings. “Our vision is to remain the leading most cost effective and innovative retail financial institution in Africa. The company will be reckoned as the most trusted, competent and profitable credit service provider in Lagos by 2024. “We are poised to take over the market through our bouquet of innovative loan

Mensah

products, ease of loan accessibility, flexibility and pricing. Our services are delivered in a targeted way that puts into consideration our corporate relationships and clients’ preferences because we place a premium on inspiring trust and building lasting relationships through each individual customer life cycle. “We have a team of like-minded people, mutually driven and supportive of each other. Our staff are friendly, creative and

positively motivated towards collectively creating value for all our stakeholders.“ She added, “Blackstone Capital Limited will continue to provide unsurpassed service and the best value for money to its customers. Customers are offered innovative loan products, ease of loan accessibility, flexibility and pricing. Process simplicity will continue to be a key driving force. “Blackstone Capital provides short term funding to individuals and small businesses. We offer lifestyle products and services that suit financial needs of our customers.� Speaking further about Ressdiva Integrated Services Nigeria Limited, Mensah said their services are top notch. According to her, “we possess the requisite experience and expertise to deliver our promise. And it is on the premise of our core values that we are uniquely positioned to ensure that our operations, key performance indicators and deliverables give us the capacity in the areas of consultancy and advisory. “We provide consultancy and advisory to clients on key sectors across the spectrum, such sector includes but not limited to; Marine, Oil & Gas (Up, middle and down- stream) and Real Estate & Property Development and all Tertiary Sectors of Industries. our mission is to be the superior company that revolutionises service

delivery in all tertiary sector of interest but not limited to marine, oil and gas, and real estate and MDAs through brilliant, phenomenal and excellent support service delivery. “We have an undertaking to deliver incomparable and extraordinary result by transforming opportunities into possibility through the skilled capabilities of our employees.� Mensah has quietly successfully built her two companies Ressdiva Integrated Services Nigeria Limited (RISNIL) and Blackstone Capital Limited. She has wealth of experiences in the banking and oil sectors. she is a career driven and outstanding professional banker with over 16 years’ experience in the industry. She started her banking career in the year 2000 with the then Eagle Bank Limited, before proceeding to Bank PHB (now Keystone Bank), and later to Sterling Bank. She served as an officer up to the grade level of manager, during this period she amassed knowledge in Commercial and Retail/SME banking as well as Public sector business. She worked as a Human Resource Associate with Chevron Nigeria Limited and also had a stint with Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in the Research & Development (R&D) unit in the year 1998.

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METRO

‌Your city life in print

Jubilation over Autonomous Status of Umuorilike Village

The red cap chiefs

Stories by Mary Ovie The number one citizen of Amorka, HRH Igwe K. O. Obiriolemgbe and the eldest man in Amorka Elder Nwakanwa Dikebuenyi, recently inaugurated Umuorilike as an autonomous village in Amorka, Anambra State. Umuorilike was formally declared the ninth village of Amorka community having satisfied the requirements traditionally and otherwise to stand as a village.

Other villages are Umuezike, Umueze, Umuejim, Umuezeala, Ikenga, Umunakwa, Umuokpara, Umuanum. Others present at the inauguration were the President General of Amorka United Union (AUU) Prof Someone Alozieruwa; the President General of Umuorilike Chief Chinwuba Ndukaihe, who led prominent sons and daughters of Umuorilike home and abroad, all head chiefs of the eight villages and other cabinet members of the Igwe. The Igwe commended Umuorilike

for their joint efforts to ensure this day becomes a reality, charging other kindreds that are qualified to become a village in Amorka to push through for their autonomy that it will be granted. Also speaking, the President General of Umuorilike, Chief Chinwuba Ndukaihe, thanked HRH Igwe K.O. Obiriolemgbe; the President General, Prof Someone Alozieruwa, the eldest man in Amorka Elder Nwakanwa Dikebuenyi, and Amorka Council of Chiefs, for making the memorable event a success, promising that

the newly created village will continue supporting the development of Amorka Community. Ndikaihe added that nothing will break their relationship with Umueze, the village Umuorilike was carved out from. Umuorilike will now become the youngest village in Amorka until another village is created. After the inauguration, Umuorilike unanimously adopted Chief Dennis Asikogu as the head of the newly create village.

Orient Garden City:The Birth of New Luxury Community in Owerri In no distant time, Imo State will boast of the best, exclusive and the most expensive estate ‘Orient Garden City’ in the Southeast part of the country, if not Nigeria. Orient Garden City will be among the few neighbourhoods in Nigeria that can rival other beautiful neighbourhoods of the world. The unique estate, which would have a nine-hole golf course within the scheme as well as other recreations, was established to bridge the gap on the need for quality housing scheme within the state. Orient Garden City was also birthed out of need to provide luxury and secured neighbourhood with world class infrastructures in Owerri to encourage investors to live, work and play within an established scheme in Owerri, which already has huge industrialisation potentials, as the city seats right in the middle of South-east and South-south market population. Orient Garden City Limited is a registered company with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), with primary aim and objectives to provide real estate development, building construction, property and facility management services. The company is made up of seasoned, highly skilled individuals and companies in estate development and construction, architectural designing, building engineers, town planners, property & facility managers with a combined local and foreign experiences. The estate is located at Owerri-Port Harcourt Express Road, Just after Avu Junction,

New Owerri, approximately four minutes drive from the famous Asumpta Cathedral Catholic Church, Imo State. The Director of Orient Garden City, Mr. Ugochukwu Okpara disclosed that residents of the estate would enjoy luxury living, quality, class, affordable lifestyle, serenity, peace and security. One of the greatest setbacks facing the country is poor management and

maintenance culture. These could be seen in most private and public facilities including roads and houses. But according to Dr Ikem Ume-ezeoke, one of the brains behind the project, “we are also bringing differently, apart from the luxury and secured environment, a strong facility management team that would be independent, to ensure the maintenance of the estates is optimally maximised in the

years to come.� Further more, these dynamic team insist the estate would be managed by a strict building codes to strictly control excessive abuse guidelines that may be violated by residents builders. Residence would be expected to sign into the “ building codes and guidelines� as well as “service agreement� for smooth adherence to rules and regulations.

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CRIME&SECURITY

Meet CSP Titilayo Oriyomi- Oluwasanmi , CRAN Police OďŹƒcer of the Year Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that the Officer in charge of Lagos State Traffic, popularly known as Motopol, CSP TitilayoOriyomi-OluwasanmiOriyomi,whowasoncethecoverofTHISWEEKENDpull-outmagazinefromthe stables of the widely-read and influential THISDAY Newspaper, has recorded another feat by bagging CRAN PoliceOfficeroftheYear CSP Titilayo OriyomiOluwasanmi is not an ordinary woman. A consummate wife, hands-on mother and very importantly, the Officer in charge of Lagos State Traffic, Oluwasanmi is charged with the duty of clearing Lagos roads of traffic, a Herculean task one must admit. As Motopol Lagos, she recently emerged winner as Police Officer of the Year 2019, an award given to her by Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), after she trumped others in the poll conducted inhouse without the knowledge of the contenders. For the uninitiated, Oluwasanmi had made the cover of this magazine last year with the headline ‘The Face of Traffic Policing in Lagos’. The qualities she exhibited that qualified her still hasn’t changed, little wonder CRAN found her worthy to take the crown this year. That of 2018 was won by the Commander Rapid Response Squad (RRS), DCP Tunji Disu. Call her the face of traffic policing in Lagos and you won’t be wrong. In her capacity as Motorpol, she has reformed the ideals of traffic policing. Since assumption of office as Motopol, she has faced the task of decongesting Lagos squarely. From ensuring her officers understand that their primary assignment is to decongest traffic, to making sure they dress smarter in their uniforms and are more cordial in their dealings with motorists unlike the situation before, Oluwasanmi has also ensured that they are always on their their duty posts to avoid giving false reports. She has also gone above and beyond to fix bad roads with her unit because of the traffic snarl it was causing. They look for debris from construction sites to fill potholes and patch up the road. For her, it is not just to control traffic but to first find out what is causing the traffic and then fix it. According to CRAN President, Mr. Sunday Odita, the trophy will be presented to her in February for scoring the highest mark, thus beating others with a wide margin in a voting process by members of the association on Saturday, January 25, 2020. He said: “To her credit, she is a very hardworking, disciplined and skillful police officer with knowledge in community policing. It was a well deserved win.â€? Awards Oluwasanmi has so far garnered over 40 awards both internationally and locally. Some of them include the Police Community Relation Committee Award (Merit award as DTO Lion Building), PCRC Award (Merit Award) 2014, Bible Society of Nigeria Award (Award of Honor &

(Global Legend DPO of the Year) 2016, Hall Of Fame Award (DPO of the Year Award) 2017, Crime Link Publication Award (DPO of the year and Pragmatic Leadership) and Society of National Peace & Leadership Award (Excellence in Crime Fighting Award) 2017. Also she was awarded with Crime Link Publication Award (Outstanding & Distinguished DPO of the Year) 2017, The Apostolic Church Nigeria Ilasamaja (Meritorious Award of Excellence) 2017, Lagos Watch Award (Star Award of Excellence & Distinction) 2017, National Peace Movement Award (Charismatic Leadership Award) 2017, National Association against Drug and Crime Award (Pragmatic Leadership Award), Transparency Nigeria Award (Most Transparent Police Officer of the Year) 2017, Voice of Peace Initiative Award (Peace Ambassador in Nation Building) 2018, Crime Fighter Award of Excellence (Recognition for Excellence ) and West Africa Media Community Award (The Pride News Paper Man of the Year Award) 2019. She also got the Fresh Fact Magazine Eminence Award (Most Outstanding DPO), Security Watch Africa (Golden Star Award), Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria Award (Police Office of the year), Africa Security Watch award (Best Anti-Crime Police officer in West Africa), JTAH Award (Special Recognition Award for Dedication and Hard Work), CRAN Award (Award for Gallantry in Police Duties), Voice out Nigeria News (National Pride Award) 2019, City Award (Remarkable Work as CSP in Lagos State and Entire south-west) 2019, Committee for the Defense of Human Right CDHR Award (Award for Excellence for Security Service & Security Personnel of the Year) 2019, JTTAH foundation and Voice out Nigeria News awards and in November last year, she was in Dubai where she bagged Security Watch Africa Awards on Most Innovative Urban Traffic Management Officer.

CSP Oluwasanmi when she made THIS WEEKEND cover

Contribution to Bible Course) 2015, Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria Award (Distinguished Award in Crime Fighting) 2015, West African Regional Partnership for Peace & Security Award (Merit Award as DPO Ilasamaja, Lead-Time African Magazine Award (Recognition for

Outstanding & Dedication) 2016, and Christian Event Watch Magazine Award ( Award for Energetic Solder of Christ & Excellence, Dedication Officer of Law and Security) 2016. Others include the Nigeria Peace Magazine Award (Leadership Ambassador Award ) 2016, African Voice

of Peace Initiative Award (Managerial Merit Award of Excellence) 2016, Leadership Hope Media Award (Leadership Ambassador Award) 2016, ICON Africa Media Award (Prestigious Africa Merit Gold Award) 2016, Voice of Peace Initiative National Building Award (Good Ambassador and Quality Leadership ) 2016, Global Legend Media Award

Profile CSP Oluwasanmi was born in Lagos in the early 70s and she attended primary and secondary school in lagos. She is a graduate of Philosophy from Ogun State Univeristy, now Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye. She also has a Masters Degree in Leadership and Management from the London School of Management. In 2015, she also attended the Police Officer ’s Course in Management in Guandong Police Academy, Guangzhou, China. After her NYSC programme she enlisted into the Nigeria Police as a cadet ASP in 2002. She was trained at Police Academy, Wudil, Kano. Oluwasanmi is happily married and blessed with children.

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POLSCOPE

with Eddy Odivwri Ă?ĂŽĂŽĂŁË›Ă™ĂŽĂ“Ă ĂĄĂœĂ“ĚśĂžĂ’Ă“Ă?ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ–Ă“Ă Ă?Ë›Ă?Ă™Ă—Ëœ ͸΀͸ͽ ͝͸͞ Π͝ͽ͞

TI Report: Is Transparency International Not Correct?

Canticles‌.

Okada Ban in Lagos: Will This Last?

I

am so excited about the new dawn in Lagos tomorrow. I cannot wait to see how refreshing Lagos will look.

New dawn? How? Are you not in this country? You mean you do not know of the ban of motor cyclists and even tricyclists otherwise called Okada and keke Marwa operators respectively? You do not know that the ban takes effect from tomorrow? You don’t read Newspapers or listen to radio? (pouting his lips, releases a long hissing sound) Is it that announcement that is making you so giddy and excited? Are you new in Lagos? Lagos will ban Okada and you believe? Please tell me something else

Magu

T

here has been so much ruckus over the 2019 corruption perception index (cpi) as recently released by Transparency International (TI). The report had said Nigeria has got even more corrupt than she was the previous year. It placed Nigeria as number 146 out of 180 countries polled during the test. In terms of score, Nigeria could only garner 20 percent. By every standard, even in the class of dullards, that’s an awful performance. And Nigerian officials are peeved, understandably. They have been tearing down the report, describing it with obnoxious adjectives and dismissing it as hogwash. This is expected. Nigeria’s Information minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed (who has been less noisy in recent times) went all the way to London to describe the report as “baseless�. It is particularly an annoying report to those in government who truly or pretenciously believe that government has been doing epic battle in the fight against corruption. For such ones, they expect TI to recognize all that the federal government has done, and keeps doing, to stem the aggressive tide of corruption in the country. They expect that TI would give Nigeria a good ranking which will encourage and motivate it to even double its effort and zeal in the fight against the monster called corruption. Many of such advocates were on Good Morning Nigeria, an NTAconversational programme early in the week. One of the guests dug deep into semantics, arguing that since it is a “Perception�, it connotes such meaning like sentiment, perspective, opinion, feeling, etc. And so it is not factual or empirical. And so cannot be believed. But if the report had been positive, would they discredit the rating agency? They all argued that, Yes, Nigeria is fighting the menace hard, though not yet there, but definitely not where it was prior to 2015, when the President Buhari administration came to power. True as that may be, the bitter truth is that the initial caution with which Nigerians welcomed the Buhari administration has worn out. They appear to have been fully weaned of the Buhari phobia. The wait-and-see period has long been over. Now Nigerians are no longer abiding by the golden rule of “Thou Shalt Not Steal�, they are now guided by the watchful creed of “Thou Shalt not be Caught�. In that stead, they have only grown smarter and sleeker in navigating the corruption loop in such away that they do not get trapped in it. Perhaps Nigerian government officials should not take the report too personal. Not only is it true that Buhari inherited monumental corruption, it is also a fact that it is a continent-wide malaise. The 2019 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) notes that only eight out of 49 African countries could score more than 43 per cent in the assessment. It further noted that one out of every four people in Africa pay bribe to access services. Perhaps those struggling to dismiss the TI report as bunkum are looking only at the

big pictures. They must be courageous to differentiate between assets recovery efforts from fighting corruption. We have been huge on the former, not the latter. They are not exactly the same thing They forget that the report did not focus only on the “Big men� in government. Corruption is literally in our DNA as a people. Who is truly free? Is it not true that people pay bribe to access services in government offices? Are we not aware that files go missing in government offices and suddenly get found after somebody , somewhere has been “settled�? Is it untrue? Do even fuel attendants not collect bribe to sell petrol during periods of fuel scarcity? How many times have criminals been willfully allowed to escape from prison or police custody because some transactions took place between those who should be the guard and those to be guarded? Do people not even bribe to get bed spaces in very busy government hospitals? How come those smoky, rickety vehicles travel our highways when every kilometer is a checkpoint of FRSC, VIOs, Police etc? Who dares say we are not corrupt? Is it for nothing that the former UK Prime minister, David Cameron described Nigerians as “fantastically corrupt�? Don’t we know how ingenious and creative we are in manoeuvering our ways to circumvent the laws? Has anybody been able to explain how some privileged civil servants are fantastically rich—owning properties and assets everywhere? Very recently, just before JAMB suspended the requirement of National Identification Number (NIN), the officials in charge of the registration process were already charging the students, for a service that ought to be free? And you say we are not corrupt? Is it even in the church, the supposed sacred temple of purity? Or is it in the other temple: justice? Are we not aware of how judgements are procured? Did former CGS, Lt Gen Dipo Diya not lampoon the judiciary many years ago when he said judges write two judgements, putting each one on either side of the pocket and then decides to read the one that settled better, and the judgements will yet be garnished with all the casuistic arguments? Are we being told anything new by TI? I wrote a column recently (January 3,2020) on Mr Wadume. Five months after he was clearly confirmed as a mega kidnapper who caused the shooting of some policemen and a civilian, on lawful duty, by conniving soldiers, nobody has heard anything about the kidnapper nor the soldiers who criminally killed policemen on lawful duty. Is it not one big man somewhere stalling the course of justice? Is that not corruption? Or have we not heard several times that the tonic sustaining the anti-terrorism fight is that those benefitting hugely from the Boko Haram battle are the same people ensuring that it is war without end? Imagine the bizzare Siamese vice of heartless sabotage and corruption!

We dare not delve into the miasmic kingdom of politicians with all its reeky cesspit. If all else is explained, somebody should explain to me how a “common councillor� who could not pass his WASCE suddenly become richer and more endowed than my professor in the University of Benin, who has been professing for over 20 years , but goes home with something around N400,000 per month? What is that called? Every four years or less, facilities and equipment in government offices like that of Mr President, state governors, senators etc, get changed. Where are they taken to? Yes, by the diligent efforts of agencies like the EFCC, three former governors (Rev Jolly Nyame--Taraba, Joshua Dariye—Plateau, and Orji Uzor Kalu—Abia) are serving various jail terms, yet the number of thieves in government and even private offices, is bursting in their seams. Just everywhere you turn, you are confronted with the oodles of corruption . Indeed for every Dariye or Kalu held in prison, there are a thousand Nyames parading on the streets. They are just devotees of the Thou-Shalt-not-be-Caught creed. When the whistle blowing policy was freshly launched, was the nation not awash with stunning revelations? Did we not hear of huge cash recoveries from soak-away pits, bunkers, unoccupied flats, shops and even waiting lounges at airports? More than four years after those cases, who is in jail? And you say we are not fantastically corrupt? And when Mr President knowingly appoints into his cabinet people with huge baggage of fraud weighing down their necks, he expects the world to truly believe his fisty(?) fight against corruption? Did one of the present ministers not hide humongous sums of foreign currency in a certain Government House in the South South, and the operatives of the DSS broke into same and confiscated the money? How did the matter get resolved? Where are those monies? Did we hear about them again till today? How else can a people be corrupt? And you say we are not corrupt? As late Fela Anikulapo Kuti will say, “second Base jare�. Why are we trying to appear holier than the pope on this matter? Have we not long graduated from the notorious 10 per cent kickback (for every contract) to the wholesome hijack of contract sums with job completely undone? And nothing happens? how many of those criticizing the TI report can truly say the organization is wrong? Yes, the fight against corruption is on and EFCC is securing a handful of convictions, yet the scourge is still very pervasive in our everyday life. All the security agencies are obviously overwhelmed, even as some of their operatives are themselves corrupt and easily compromise the system by helping criminals to either get soft-landing or evade justice altogether. As Ayi Kwei Armah once wrote, The Beautiful Ones are not Yet Born. Will they ever be born?

What are you implying? Are you trying to say we should not believe His Excellency, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu? Or was it not he who sent his commissioner for Information, Hon Gbenga Omotosho to make that announcement? Point of correction: are you not aware that the governor said he should not be addressed as His Excellency? That it is an epithet exclusive for God? Ok, I have heard you. But that is not the point. You mean we should not believe the governor or that as from tomorrow, these irritants called Okada riders and keke Marwa riders will still be found on those 10 major highways and 40 bridges from which they have been banned? Just wait and see and you will confirm that indeed, a new sheriff is in town. Calm down my brother. Don’t invest too much hope on such flippant policies. It is called executive gra-gra. We are used to it. I beg your pardon! You call such a major government decision a ippant policy? Did you not hear of the statistics of deaths and major accidents? Did you not hear that between 2016 and 2019,there were over 10,000 cases of reported accidents in General Hospitals alone, and over 600 deaths? How can a responsible government tolerate that? Did you not also hear that criminals (robbers and kidnappers) use Okada and keke Marwa as quick-getaways? And you say banning them is ippant?

Sanwo-Olu

Gosh! But do you realize if they were not useful to Lagosians, they won’t be on the roads? Rubbish question! Don’t you see how the cluster of Okada riders deface Lagos? How can such ugly hubs be part of the mega city dream of Lagos? How does their menace support the Centre of Excellence status of Lagos state? Away with them! So what is the alternative? Where are the so-called BRT buses to fill the gaps? How will Lagosians survive the daily worsening traffic snarl in Lagos metropolis? Do you realize that the mass of the disengaged Okada and Keke operators will take to crime? Do you realize that Lagosians have come to accept Okada as necessary evil which they are prepared to live with? So if government is banning them from those six LGAs and nine LCDAs, there must be ready and easy alternatives. Otherwise, government will not only be increasing the stress and agony level of Lagosians, but will also be laying the foundation for the failure of the policy. Government is not foolish! It is working out measures to fill the gap and attend to the arising issues So what also happens to the Bike hailing startups like Max. ng, Gokada, Opay, ORide, which the Lagos state government, last July, had collected licensing fee of N25 million each from, for every 1000 bikes they bring in? Is that the end of their money? Are you their spokesman? In any case, they can ply the roads not included in the ban. But if they breach the law as from tomorrow, the law enforcement agents have been instructed to embark on “full enforcement�. Well, we can only wait and see. But I can tell you for free, that shortly before the 2023 elections, the fire in this socalled law would have long died down, trust me. Political consideration would take over. Go and ask former Gov Raji Fashola what happened to his own Executive gra-gra. They will not unban it, but nobody will arrest any Okada man anymore, even when found around Alausa secretariat. You want to bet? You are a doubting Thomas

FRIDAY JANUARY 31, 2020 • T H I S D AY

41

42

T H I S D AY Ëž ÍąÍŻËœ 2020

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Huawei Welcomes UK’s Decision on 5G Rollout Huawei has said it is reassured by the United Kingdom government’s confirmation to allow it to participate in the country’s 5G roll-out. Vice-President, Huawei, Victor Zhang, in a statement, said the evidence-based decision would result in a more advanced, secure and more cost-effective telecoms infrastructure fit for the future. Zhang, also said the decision gives the UK access to worldleading technology and ensures a competitive market. The British government had on Tuesday said it would allow Huawei to build the country’s next generation of super-fast wireless networks, despite the US’ threatening that permitting Huawei equipment could undermine trade and intelligence ties with the US. Zhang said Huawei has strong track record of supply-

ing cutting-edge technology to telecoms operators in the UK for more than 15 years. It will continue with “supporting customers as they invest in their 5G networks, boosting economic growth and helping the UK continue to compete globally,� he added. The statement explained that the cyber security record of Huawei had been recognised by two parliamentary committees in UK, a country with the toughest oversight of our industry in the world, and the views of pre-eminent intelligence officials, all of whom agree there is no technical reason for excluding Huawei from the UK’s 5G network. “British Government has full access to evaluate Huawei product ranges through Cyber Security and Evaluation Centre, opened in the country in 2010. “The oversight board of the

facility is chaired by the Chief Executive Officer of the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre with members from government including Government Communications Headquarters, as well as the UK telecommunications sector,� it added. Responding to the decision on excluding Huawei from core network, the company’s spokesperson said Huawei has not been invited to bid for any of the core network contracts for the 5G networks in the UK. “Our focus remains the supply of world leading radio products where we have an established position in the UK market.� Zhang added that Huawei agrees a diverse vendor market and fair competition are essential for network reliability and innovation, as well as ensuring consumers have access to the best possible technology.

L-R: Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc Dr. Demola Sogunle ; President, Afreximbank, Prof. Benedict Oramah; Director, Treasury and Markets Department, Chandi Mwenebungu, and Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Trustees Limited. Charles Omoera, at the signing ceremony of the African Export-Import Bank’s N300 billion Domestic Bond Issuance Programme between Stanbic IBTC Capital Limited and Afreximbank in Lagos...Lagos

MARKET INDICATORS

FirstBank Reiterates Commitment to SMEs Ugo Aliogo FirstBank of Nigeria Limited has expressed its desire to continue to support small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) in the country. Speaking at the FirstBank SMEConnect Business Clinic in Lagos, yesterday, the Group Head, Lagos Island 1, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Olufunke Smith, said the bank’s SME proposition was based on seven pillars that would connect SMEs to- capacity building (such as this business clinic), market, infrastructure, talent for business development, policy and regulation, finance and resources. She stated that the business clinic provides an opportunity for SMEs to understand how to develop their business plans

and run their business. According to her, “Building the capacity of SMEs is an ongoing process. SMEs is the engine of growth of any society, at First Bank it is our responsibility to bring them onboard through support, knowledge sharing, and advisory in order for them to add value to the society. “The SMEs attending the clinics today have gone through a selection process and it is the first of 2020, there will be more clinics to be held in the course of the year. “SMEs are the bedrock of economic growth of any society. It is when you have functional SMEs that the country can grow. “It is noteworthy to mention here that SMEs are great employers of labour. When you have viable SMEs they provide various services and innovations

that traditional corporations may not provide. They disrupt and come with various solutions to address complex business challenges especially with the aid of technology. “This clinic is part of giving back to society to ensure we continue to develop SMEs in whatever role we can. “FirstBank has recognised that for it to serve SMEs adequately there is a need to offer more than traditional banking services. We know that connecting SMEs to the right information and business tools can save turnaround time, cost and give them a competitive edge in the sector that they operate. “It is on this knowledge that we have created value propositions for SMEs that cover financial and non-financial services.

Polaris Bank Supports Gender Equality Campaign Polaris Bank has lent its support to the global ‘HeForShe’ movement initiative of the United Nations (UN) in line with its Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy thrust. This is just as the bank’s CEO, Tokunbo Abirum has been nominated Gender Equality Champion by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs & Poverty Alleviation in conjunction with UNWomen. The Polaris Bank CEO gave his commitment at the launching of the HeForShe campaign in Lagos State, recently, where the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu inaugurated the campaign in the state. He reiterated

the bank’s commitment to the advancement of gender equality, affirming his nomination to be a HeForShe Advocate/Champion. A statement quoted Abiru to have stated that: “Our commitment to gender equality runs just as deep as our passion for creating value which is why it is one of the main focus of the women and youth empowerment pillar of our sustainability and CSR policy.� According to him, “Women are the most deprived gender in the world and apart from constituting majority of the unbanked, they are also deprived on cultural grounds in developing economies.� He further stated that, “in

support of the objective of the HeForShe movement, we have and will continue to support particularly, the economic and financial growth of women and contribute to building an enabling environment for them.� Earlier in her welcome address, the host and Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada, said: “HeForShe is a platform through which men and boys are encouraged to become agents of change,� adding that “it is an initiative for men to stand in solidarity with women to create a bold, visible and united force for gender equality.�

LAPO MFB Launches New Product Sunday Ehigiator LAPO Microfinance Bank has launched the ‘My Pikin and I’ savings account to protect and secure the future of children. The bank also revealed that it was targeting to give out about N170 billion loans this year. Speaking at the product-launch held in Lagos state, recently, the Managing Director, LAPO Microfinance Bank, Dr. Godwin Ehigiamusoe, said aside other benefits of the product, its focus

was to assist savers to build up capital and also increase the company’s deposit base. “The two objectives for any savings products for us first of all, are to be able to assist the savers to build up capital. Because, we do realise that the challenge of most people, especially women is the fact that they have very slim capital base, in terms of building up their savings. “The second obviously for us as an institution is that

we are able to build our deposit base. Definitely this will be, because specially, this is a product that we have already had, it’s just that we have just designed a new one, which we will definitely consolidate both together. “So we see this increasing our deposit base in the next few months. We normally have about N3 billion deposits on a monthly basis before now; we see this product taking this figure up maybe by 30 per cent.

MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

SEPTEMBER 2019 Money Supply (M3)

35,029,779.72

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

7,374,356.91

Money Supply (M2)

27,655,422.82

-- Quasi Money

116,533,891.21

-- Narrow Money (M1)

11,121,531.60

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,625,047.69

---- Demand Deposits

9,496,483.91

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

13,911,335.83

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

21,118,443.89

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

35,918,179.45

---- Credit to Government (Net)

10,452,199.38

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

11,007,422.79

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

25,465,980.07

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

-14,799,735.56

--Other Assets Net

7,000,253.07

Reserve Money (Base Money

2,005,600.83

--Currency in Circulation

4,677,530.81

--Banks Reserves

317,121.43

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Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

March 2018

Inter-Bank Call Rate

15.16

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

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

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OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE Ëœ Í°Íś Í°ÍŽÍ°ÍŽ

The price of OPEC basket of fourteen crudes stood at $60.67 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $61.98 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Oriente (Ecuador), ZaďŹ ro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela). SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

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T H I S D AY Ëž ÍąÍŻËœ 2020

MARKET NEWS

Honeywell Flour Mills Posts N58bn Revenue, N925m Loss in Nine Months Goddy Egene Honeywell Flour Mills (HFMP) Plc, one of the leading food manufacturers in Nigeria, has reported a revenue of N58.230 billion for the nine months ended December 31, 2019. The results also showed a growth of six per cent from the N55.03 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2018. According to the company, the growth in revenue was driven by corresponding growth in sales

volume by five per cent. Efficient management of input costs and operating expenses also led to a healthy gross margin of 17.6 per cent and operating profit increasing by 19 per cent from N2.8 billion to N3.4 billion. However, an increase of about 60 per cent in finance expenses, which rose from N2.648 billion to N4,246 billion made the company to end the period with a loss of N925 million, compared with a profit after tax of N143 million recorded in 2018.

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

The company said the increase in finance expense was as a result of the cost of financing part of the foods and agro-allied complex which is now being charged into the income statement following the commencement of commercial operations. Commenting on the results, Managing Director, HFMP, Lanre Jaiyeola, said: “Despite the challenging operating environment occasioned by rising input costs, reducing spending power of

S E C U R I T I E S MARKET PRICE

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consumers and product evacuation challenges due to the traffic logjam at Apapa, the company grew its nine months revenue by six per cent to N58.2 billion, when compared to revenue of N55 billion recorded in the corresponding period of the last financial year. This was driven by sales of our various Flour and Pasta products.� According to him, in line with their objective to continuously improve operational efficiency, the execution of well–embedded

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

operational efficiency initiatives led to nine-month operating profit accelerating at a faster rate than revenue by 19 per cent from N2.8 billion to N3.4 billion. “We will continue to improve our operational efficiency in order to maximize value to shareholders. We are confident that our performance in the coming quarter and the new financial year thereafter will record significant improvement. We have implemented strategies to maximize shipment of

O F

products to our customers in spite of the Apapa traffic gridlock. We are also well positioned to substantially increase our capacity utilisation of the Pasta production through continuous flow of input materials to the Pasta factory in Sagamu. We are also working on the introduction of new products tailored towards the preference of our most valued consumers in terms of satisfying their nutritional needs, taste and spending power,� he assured.

3 0 / 0 1 / 2 0 2 0 DEALS

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44

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS

H1: Guinness Nigeria Records N68bn Revenue, N1.31bn Profit Goddy Egene Guinness Nigeria Plc, a leading beverage and alcohol company in Nigeria has announced its unaudited results for its first half (H1) year period ended December 31, 2019.

The results showed that revenue increased marginally from N67.796 billion to N68.327 billion. The growth was mainly driven by strong double-digit growth in brand Guinness and mainstream spirits. Operating profit declined from

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

N4.638 billion to N3.559 billion mainly due to the impact of the excise duty increase, while profit after tax fell from N2.579 billion to N1.315 billion driven by an increase in net financing costs related to short term loans. Financing cost rose from N845

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 29Jan-2020, unless otherwise stated.

million to N1.743 billion. Speaking on the results, Managing Director/CEO, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Baker Magunda, said: “In the H1 ended December 31, 2019, Guinness Nigeria delivered results that reflected a very

strong second fiscal quarter performance despite continued regulatory, competitive and inflationary challenges in the operating environment. Strong growth in Guinness, spirits and ready-to-drink (RTD) together with cost benefit from various

productivity initiatives has helped to mitigate other risks. Despite the increase in excise duties on beer and mainstream spirits, the competitive environment was such that there was lack of pricing opportunities in the period to mitigate this.”

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

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund N/A N/A N/A Nigeria International Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund 0.90 0.91 7.08% ACAP Income Funds 0.76 0.76 33.76% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.94% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.48 2.53 0.62% info@anchoriaam.com ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market N/A N/A N/A Anchoria Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Anchoria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 16.38 16.87 6.91% ARM Discovery Fund 363.60 374.56 5.25% ARM Ethical Fund 30.69 31.62 5.52% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.88% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 102.27 102.98 6.44% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 6.34% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 1.96 1.96 22.95% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.66% Paramount Equity Fund 13.07 13.26 4.24% Women's Investment Fund 116.15 117.23 5.22% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.66% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 106.80 107.43 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 116.97 117.75 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Coronation Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Coronation Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 5.70% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 6.04% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,181.73 1,183.67 1.69% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,317.33 1,318.46 2.03% FBN Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.60% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional 119.81 120.76 0.48% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 120.51 120.76 0.57% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.31% Legacy Debt Fund 3.68 3.68 0.60% Legacy Equity Fund 1.18 1.21 4.65% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.09 1.09 0.34% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 3,162.78 3,200.53 6.06% Coral Income Fund 3,100.75 3,100.75 13.12% FSDH Treasury Bills Fund 100.00 100.00 8.77% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Nigeria Entertainment Fund N/A N/A N/A

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gdl.com.ng Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.34% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.27 2.30 5.47% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 11.44% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 143.38 143.87 14.88% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.23 1.25 5.23% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,108.70 1,108.70 0.95% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Meristem Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.42 1.44 15.88% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.49 12.59 10.59% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 9.00% PACAM Equity Fund 1.18 1.19 PACAM EuroBond Fund 108.34 110.22 SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 139.96 141.34 10.43% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 0.07% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,521.35 2,532.80 4.20% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 210.33 210.33 0.55% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.88 0.89 6.18% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 273.87 273.95 0.97% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 154.92 156.64 4.90% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.70% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 7,674.15 7,756.30 5.91% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.16 1.16 0.56% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 118.18 118.18 0.00% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.18 1.20 1.63% United Capital Bond Fund 1.69 1.69 15.58% United Capital Equity Fund 0.69 0.70 -3.63% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.06% United Capital Eurobond Fund 111.58 111.58 8.05% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.08 1.08 6.79% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 10.76 10.93 4.92% Zenith Ethical Fund 11.98 12.14 3.28% Zenith Income Fund 22.97 22.97 3.35% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 5.22%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

3.40 119.19 52.14

-64.85% 0.22% 0.17%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

9.90 101.98 78.60

10.00 104.17 80.05

13.62% 10.29% 6.61%

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

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

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

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

3.74 5.56 13.59 12.48 172.07

3.78 5.64 13.69 12.68 174.07

5.37% -5.91% 11.72% 19.88% -8.12%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

108.69

17.60%

INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

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

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FRIDAY JANUARY 31, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

UK’s Exit from EU an Opportunity to Show Strength, Says Envoy The British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Ms. Harriet Thompson, yesterday said her country leaving the European Union (EU) today would be an opportunity for to show what Global Britain means. In a statement last night, Thompson noted that the exit would foster a new relationship with her other partners; striking trade deals with new markets, reasserting herself as a liberal and free trading nation; and acting with strong moral anchors, as a force for good in the world. The envoy added that the UK

would be a global champion for free trade – benefitting businesses, reducing costs for consumers, and helping the poorest countries in the world achieve genuine economic independence. The statement read: “ Leaving the EU is an opportunity for us to show what Global Britain means: A new relationship with our EU and other partners; striking trade deals with new markets, reasserting ourselves as a liberal and free trading nation; and acting with strong moral anchors, as a force for good in the world. At the same time, as

a truly Global Britain, we will remain committed to the vital issues of today and play our part in securing a better, fairer and safer world for tomorrow. “The UK will be a global champion for free trade – benefitting businesses, reducing costs for consumers, and helping the poorest countries in the world achieve genuine economic independence. “Prime Minister Boris Johnson

has been clear that the UK will leave the European Union on January 31, 2020. As we leave the EU, we are forging a new partnership in Europe, one that builds on our common bonds of friendship and cooperation, but as sovereign equals, with greater democratic autonomy and a clear, independent voice to speak and act on the things that matter to us. “We are also forming new

partnerships and signing new agreements with non-European partners. The UK-Africa Investment Summit was organised to explore the investment opportunities in the African continent – home to 8 of the 15 fastest growing economies in the world. As the largest economy in Africa and the UK’s second largest trade partner on the continent, Nigeria will continue to have

a preferential trade relationship with the UK. We intend to build further on the £5.5 billion trade relationship and the £324m in deals announced at the UK-AIS. “The UK will be a global champion for free trade – benefitting businesses, reducing costs for consumers, and helping the poorest countries in the world achieve genuine economic independence.”

Jet Sent to Repatriate EU Citizens from Wuhan An A380 jet left Portugal on Thursday to repatriate more than 300 EU citizens from the Chinese city of Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, Portuguese broadcaster Sic Noticias reported. Lisbon’s foreign ministry said the plane, operated by Portuguese charter airline Hi Fly, was bound for China in a discreet operation to bring out Europeans based in the city in central Hubei province with Beijing’s cooperation. “We estimate around 350 passengers to come back. They are all European and many nationalities, including Portuguese,” the flight’s Greek captain Antonios Efthymiou told Sic Noticias before the flight left Beja airport some 170 kilometres (105 miles) south of Lisbon. “We are in contact with our medical department, first of all, and the French government,” Efthymiou added. Portuguese daily Publico reported the French

government had chartered the aircraft, adding it would make a stopover in Paris to receive medical personnel and then headfirst to Hanoi, Vietnam, before going on to China on Friday. “We have begun the repatriation operation, an operation coordinated at European level and with Chinese authorities,” Augusto Santos Silva, Portugal’s minister for foreign affairs, told broadcaster Antena 1. “All Portuguese who have requested repatriation will be a part of this operation,” said Silva. He explained there were some details he was not at liberty to divulge “in order to guarantee the efficacy of this operation (which) must be carried out with the necessary discretion to succeed. We must be prudent.” The toll from the epidemic rose Thursday to 170, the Chinese government said, with more than 7,700 people infected.

ECOWAS Parliament Mediates in Gambia Crisis The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament has joined in the efforts at resolving the political crisis in the Gambia, it was learnt. ECOWAS Speaker Mustapha Cisse Lo on Wednesday led a 12- member delegation to the Gambian President, Adama Barrow. Cisse Lo had previously met with leaders of the opposition. There is a disagreement in the coalition that brought in the President, which led to political infighting. The President, it was learnt, had promised to stay for three years, a promise he was accused of not willing to keep. The visit was, ECOWAS Speaker said, was primarily to thank him for hosting the last extraordinary meeting of the Community Parliament and also an opportunity to discuss the political crisis. Briefing journalists after more than an hour meeting at the Presidency, the Speaker

Cisse Lo noted that they reported to the President on issues pertaining in the Parliament. According to the Speaker, he briefed the President on his meeting with the opposition leader as there is emerging political tension in the country but pointed out that there is the need for Gambia to have stability. “President Adama Barrow gave us listening ear and took good note of the issues we brought to his attention; and it is my view that we undertake such visits and discuss with all parties, a country cannot develop without stability,” the Speaker stressed. Over the weekend there was demonstration by the opposition to call on President Barrow to step down based on the three- year agreement despite the constitution giving him a five- year mandate. Others also demonstrated calling for the return of Yahya Jammeh.

WELCOME TO LAGOS...

L-R: Chairman, KPMG Europe, Middle East and Africa, Mr. Sikander Sattar (left), receives a plaque from Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, during a courtesy visit to the Governor at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja... yesterday

Trump Launches Coronavirus Task Force The Trump administration launched a task force with a brief to protect the United States from the fast-spreading coronavirus, as the country prepared to evacuate more of its citizens from the epicentre of the outbreak in Wuhan, China. In a statement yesterday, the US State Department said Washington would arrange extra evacuation flights from Wuhan with capacity for private US.citizens, on or about Feb. 3. It did not say how many

planes it would deploy for how many people, however that passengers would be subjected to screening, health observations and monitoring requirements. Almost 200 Americans, mostly U.S. diplomats and their families were evacuated from Wuhan this week and are being held in voluntary quarantine at a military base in California. Overnight, the White House announced the formation of a

presidential task force to lead the administration’s response to the virus, including monitoring and containing the spread of the disease. The 12-person group of officials, led by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, Alex Azar, has been meeting daily this week and will also make Americans have the latest health and travel information. “The risk of infection for Americans remains low and all agencies are working

aggressively to monitor this continuously evolving situation and to keep the public informed,’’ the White House said in a statement on Wednesday. According to the White House, top officials from the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health will serve on the task force. The Department of Homeland Security, the Transportation Department and the Department of State will also serve on the

24 Killed in Fresh DR Congo Attack Up to 24 people were killed on Thursday in a fresh attack in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s east attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces militia, taking the number of civilians killed this week to over 60, officials and a monitor said. Twenty-four bodies were found at four sites near Oicha in the volatile Beni region, the area’s top administrator Donat

Kibwana said. The Kivu Security Tracker, a joint project of the Congo Research Group and Human Rights Watch put the toll at 19. DR Congo troops have been carrying out a military operation on the ADF, which originated in Uganda but now active in DRC’s east — long plagued by various militias. Militiamen have responded

with a series of massacres against civilians with gruesome attacks involving machetes. The ADF, blamed for the deaths of more than a thousand civilians in Beni since October 2014, began as an Islamist-rooted rebel group in Uganda that opposed Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. It fell back into eastern DRC in 1995 during the Congo Wars and appears to have halted raids

inside Uganda. Its recruits today are people of various nationalities. UN experts estimated the ADF in 2018 to number around 450 fighters. A report to the UN Security Council recently said the ADF seemed to follow an extreme Islamist ideology, but there is no information on whether the group has links with international jihadist groups.

Netanyahu to Meet with Putin in Moscow to Present US Middle East Plan Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected in Moscow on Thursday to present the Donald Trump administration’s new plan for the Middle East to Russian President Vladimir Putin in person. The plan, which will give Israel control over the contentious

Jewish settlements on the West Bank and the strategic Jordan Valley, was announced earlier this week by U.S. President Donald Trump alongside Netanyahu in Washington. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has rejected the plan,

emphasising that he would prefer to continue peace talks with neutral brokers. Russia has been pursuing a greater role as a mediator between Israel and the Palestinians in recent years. Putin met with both Netanyahu and Abbas last week in Jerusalem

and Bethlehem, respectively. “Russia is ready to continue to undertake all efforts, do everything it can, to reach a viable peace in the Middle East,” Putin’s spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in comments carried by state news agency TASS on Wednesday.

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FRIDAY JANUARY 31, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS XTRA

Coronavirus: Senate Backs FG’s Self-isolation Policy for Asian Returnees Wants special funding for NCDC

Deji Elumoye and Chuks Okocha The Senate yesterday urged the Federal Ministry of Aviation to immediately take steps to ensure that all persons arriving from China, especially Chinese citizens from Nigeria that travelled for the Chinese Lunar New Year festivities, to self-isolate by staying indoors in their homes for at least two weeks before mixing with the Nigerian public. The upper chamber also extended the call for self-isolation to travellers from other countries affected by the outbreak of the deadly disease. The Senate, accordingly, advised the Nigerian public desirous of travelling to Asia to put all arrangements on hold until the Coronavirus outbreak is eliminated. These formed part of resolutions reached sequel to the consideration of a motion titled: “Coronavirus Outbreak and Preventive Response Towards Stemming its Spread in Nigeria.” Sponsored by Senator Chukwuka Utazi (PDP, Enugu North), the lawmaker in his presentation explained that the virus is spreading through the air by coughing or sneezing, close personal contact, touching a contaminated object or surface, and rarely by fecal contamination. He added that the Human Coronavirus was previously reported to cause severe symptoms such as acute respiratory syndrome, following the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCov) outbreak that began in Wuhan,

China. Utazi recalled that in response to the outbreak of the killer virus, “China put millions of people in three of its cities on lockdown in an effort to contain a Coronavirus outbreak that has killed 170 and infected more than 630 persons.” According to him, “Health officials fear the number of infected people will rise rapidly as hundreds of millions of Chinese people travel within China and abroad during the weeklong Lunar New Year which begin on Saturday.” The lawmaker, while highlighting efforts made by Nigerian authorities in preventing a possible outbreak of the virus, disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Health through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has risen to the occasion by monitoring the outbreak of respiratory illness caused by the novel (new) Coronavirus. He added that the aviation regulatory agencies recently stepped up surveillance across operating airlines and International airports nationwide, as well as issued a travel advisory in a bid to contain any case of the Coronavirus pandemic. Senator Jibrin Barau (APC, Kano North), in his contribution, described the motion as a wake-up call for health officials across the country to deploy early preventive measures. He said, “I was thinking whether our health officials are doing everything possible to prevent the coming of this disease into the country. “This motion is a wake-up call

Court Strikes out MTN’s N3bn Suit against FG Davidson Iriekpen A Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday struck out the N3 billion fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by the telecommunications giant, MTN Nigeria, against the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN). Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke struck out the suit after the court was informed about the decision of the AGF to withdraw a letter to the company demanding $2 billion alleged unremitted tax. In September 2018, Malami had demanded that the telco pay $2 billion in tax arrears. The arrears requested cover import duties, VAT and withholding taxes on foreign imports/payments. The AGF had said his office made a “high-level calculation” that MTN should have paid approximately $2 billion in taxes relating to the importation of foreign equipment and payments to foreign suppliers since 2008. MTN instituted the suit by a writ on September 10, 2018, challenging mainly, the legality of the AGF’s assessment of its import duties, withholding tax and value-added tax in the sums of N242 billion and $1.3 billion. The plaintiff sought among other declaratory reliefs, a declaration that the AGF’s demand

of the sums of N242 billion and 1.3 billion dollars from MTN, is premised on a process which is malicious, unreasonable and made on incorrect legal basis. Its counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), had argued that in writing the demand letter to MTN, Malami acted beyond his powers and violated the provisions of Section 36 of the Constitution on fair hearing with “the purported revenue assets investigation” he carried out on the firm’s activities covering 2007 to 2017. He then prayed the court to award N3billion against the AGF for rights infringement. But following an amicable settlement of the dispute, the AGF had via a letter dated January 8, 2020 announced his withdrawal from the case. This made MTN to promise to withdraw the suit from the court at the next adjourned date. When the case resumed yesterday, counsel to the AGF, Habibat Ajana, drew the judge’s attention to a January 8, 2020, letter by the AGF to MTN, in which the former said he had reviewed the issue and had decided to withdraw the demand letter. Responding, Olanipekun said with the withdrawal letter from the AGF, his client would drop its suit. Consequently, the judge struck out the suit.

to our health officials to deploy preventive measures.” “We should find a way to send a message through this motion to make sure the proper thing is done to a safeguard the health of citizens and the nation,” the

lawmaker advised. In his contribution, Senator James Manager (APC, Delta South), described China as the biggest and most populated country in the world. The lawmaker raised alarm

that Nigeria and other countries are at risk of experiencing an outbreak given what he described as the uncontrolled influx of Chinese nationals from one country to another. Senator Manager, who

likened the Coronavirus to the deadly Ebola virus, urged Nigerian authorities to rise to the occasion, warning that “almost all powerful countries in the world are already affected.”

PROMOTING EDUCATION…

L-R: Secretary to the Kwara State Government, Prof. Jibril Mamman Saba; Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Hajia Fatimah Ahmed; Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; and Commissioner for Communication, Muritala Olanrewaju, during the flag-off of distribution of exercise books to public schools in Ilorin…yesterday

Plateau Killings: Police Transfer Community Heads, Fulani Leaders to Abuja for Interrogation Seriki Adinoyi in Jos Community heads and Fulani leaders from Bokkos, Mangu, Barkin Ladi and Riyom local government areas (LGAs) of Plateau State where killings have been prevalent in recent times were yesterday arrested by the Plateau State Police Command and whisked away to Abuja for interrogation. The state Governor, Hon. Simon Lalong had earlier handed over community heads and Fulani leaders in Bokkos where the recent killings occurred to the

state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Isaac Akinmoyede for questioning. It was not clear if their confession was what led to an expanded arrest of more community leaders from neighbouring LGAs. But the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Ubah Gabriel confirmed the development, adding that “for every Ardo (Fulani leader) that was moved to Abuja, an equivalent community leader from the area was equally picked and taken to Abuja for same interrogation.”

Meanwhile, no fewer than 1,000 displaced persons from Sunday herdsmen attacks in Bokkos are currently stranded in open-plan non-residential buildings provided by churches in Bokkos town. Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Bokkos has the highest number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from the attack in Kwatas, Ruboi, and Marish villages. A resident of Bokkos, Rev. Philemon Mayat said “from available records so far, there are over one thousand women and children currently stranded

without much attention from government. He said that the Church has been the one providing food and mats for some of the IDPs, but not much is available to go round. He said about 31 women and 20 are at Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Bokkos. The Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Area, Mr. Yusuf Machen advised the displaced to go back to their homes. He said if they leave their homes vacant, the invaders will take them over.

Again, Protest Rocks Imo against Removal of Ihedioha by Supreme Court

Amby Uneze in Owerri

Indigenes of Imo State yesterday staged another protest in Owerri, the state capital, disrupting vehicular movements for several hours and condemning the January 14, 2020 verdict of the Supreme Court, which sacked Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and declared Senator Hope Uzodinma as the state governor. Security agents were stationed at strategic junctions in the metropolis apparently to ensure that the peaceful protest was not hijacked by hoodlums. As early as 10a.m, hundreds of indigenes and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) assembled at the Ugwu Ekwema along the busy Mbaise/ Egbu road in the state metropolis from where the protesters, which included men, women and youths commenced the protest. The protesters who sang

solidarity songs as they marched along the road, also displayed placards with various inscription such as: “We totally reject the Supreme Court Imposition on Imo,” “Imo People will never accept an unelected governor,” “Supreme Court must reverse this dubious judgment,“ Imo people never elected Hope Uzodinma governor,” and “Ihedioha is our elected Governor”. Addressing the protesters at the popular Fire Service Roundabout, the former Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Uche Onyeaguocha lamented that the Supreme Court declared a man who did not win an election as the governor of the state. He noted that Uzodinma who finished a distant fourth in the 2019 governorship election was wrongfully declared the governor of the state, adding that the state will never accept such an imposition by the apex court.

He maintained that the Supreme Court who delivered such a dubious judgment must redeem its image by reversing the judgment by restoring Ihedioha who was the duly elected governor of the state. He said the people will continue the protest until the Supreme Court does the right thing. “The Supreme Court declared a man who did not win an election as a governor and the Supreme Court knows that they have messed up. They know that they have brought shame to the Nigeria Judiciary. The Judgment is unacceptable to the Nigerians and to Imo People in particular. Also, the acting Chairman of the Imo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Martins Ejiogu said that the Supreme Court should restore Ihedioha who was duly elected by the people of the state, saying

it is a great disservice to deny the people their choice. “We are insisting that the Supreme Court should restore the duly elected governor of the state, Emeka Ihedioha. The Supreme Court has to restore their honour and confidence of Nigerians in the judiciary by reversing the dubious judgment against the people of Imo state because what they did was great disservice to the people of the state,” he said. Also speaking, a former Director General, Imo State Orientation Agency, Mr. Martins Opara, said that Imo People will not accept the imposition by the Supreme Court. “Imo people have resolved not to accept any imposition by the Supreme Court because even the man they want to impose on the state knows that he did not even win any election in 2019.”

FRIDAY JANUARY 31, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

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NEWSXTRA

NERC to Remove Tariff-related Liabilities from Discos Ejiofor Alike The Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has commenced moves to remove historical tariff-related liabilities from the financial records of electricity distribution companies (Discos) NERC in an order No NERC/196/2020 issued yesterday, said would resolve the continued accumulation of future tariff- related shortfalls during the transition to cost-reflective tariffs and to prevent the accrual of new liabilities in the financial records of Discos. To this end, it directed all the 11 Discos to fully settle all the invoices they receive from the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET) in line with the applicable tariff shortfall and the 2019 Minor Review of MYTO 2015 and Minimum Remittance Order for the year 2020. According to the regulatory agency, the objective of the order is the removal of historical tariff-related liabilities from the financial records of the Discos. In the order posted on its website yesterday, NERC said “All DisCos shall settle invoices received from NBET in full as adjusted by the applicable tariff shortfall and the 2019 Minor Review of MYTO 2015 and Minimum Remittance Order for the year 2020.” The order was entitled “Order on transitional accounting treatment on tariff related liabilities in the financial records of participants in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry.” NERC also directed that all

NBET invoices shall clearly indicate the amount due and payable by the Federal Government of Nigeria from multiple funding sources in the PSRP financing plan. It directed that the unpaid tariff – related portion of the NBET invoice shall temporarily remain in the books of the DisCos as a liability until same is paid to GenCos from the Payment Assurance Facility (PAF) or other funding sources in the PSRP financing plan. According to NERC, there shall be no interest on this liability pending the payment to GenCos by NBET. NERC said the NBET shall apportion funds drawn under PAF or other funding sources in the PSRP financing plan to DisCos in accordance with the minimum remittance threshold approved by the regulator. NBET will thereafter issue credit notes to the DisCos in the same amount confirming that the liability has been defrayed. The commission added that the unpaid portion of the NBET invoice that is not directly attributable to the tariff deficit shall be recovered by NBET through the payment guarantee provided by the DisCo. The commission insisted that the settlement of NBET’s liability to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) by the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning for the principal and interest on PAF and its supplementary funding under PAF-X shall have a commensurate impact on the associated indebtedness of NBET.

Obaseki Plotting to Eliminate Oshiomhole, Edo Lawmakers-elect Allege The 14 members -elect of Edo State House of Assembly have accused Governor Godwin Obaseki of establishing a special militia group to eliminate the National Chairman of the party, Mr. Adams Oshiomhole. They warned that they would not fold their hands and watch any of their leaders and members in the state killed, saying the governor does not have monopoly of violence. The members also alleged that the governor was planning to destroy the APC in Edo State because he has concluded arrangement to join another political party, considering his recent endorsement for a second term by some top members of the PDP, including Ebonyi State Governor, Mr. Dave Umahi. Addressing reporters in Abuja, spokesman of the 14 lawmakers and former Speaker, Hon. Victor Edoror, said the long silence of President Muhammadu Buhari and other leaders of the party regarding the crisis in the state was not helping in resolving the dispute. While reacting to a statement credited to Governor Obaseki to deal with Oshiomhole, the 14 members- elect said the seeming aloofness of some leaders across the country has created another Emperor in Edo state. They appealed to the President and other leaders of the APC to call

Obaseki to order because “he has no monopoly of violence,” warning “If any of our people are killed, we will hold governor Obaseki and the Inspector General of Police accountable and Edo people will never forgive them. “We want to believe that because the leaders of our party across the country has been quiet to call Governor Godwin Obaseki to order, he has been further emboldened to kill everybody due to his desperate ambition for a second term. “He has recruited a killer squad in Edo State and their mandate is to kill Comrade Oshiomhole and other APC leaders. So, he has continued to create crisis and disrupt public peace. “Recent amongst so many is frustrating several reconciliation efforts by the National Working committee, the National Assembly, well-meaning Edo sons and in fact, leaders of our great party,” and “instituting several court cases against the party and the National Chairman in several courts around the country, thereby, bringing our great party to disrepute. “Massive protest by thugs sponsored by the state government on December 16, 2019 where cars were burnt and several persons injured just to stop a rally to receive decampees from other political parties to our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).”

NERC said the order shall take effect from the market settlement

cycle of January 2020. However, it shall cease to

have effect on the issuance of an order of the NERC directing

the Discos to settle their market invoices in full.

PERFORMING RELIGIOUS OBLIGATION……

L-R: Oyo State Governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde; Supreme Head, Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) Unification Church of Nigeria, Prophet Solomon Adegboyega Alao; and Alapa of Okilapa, Oba Akinola John Akinlola, during the annual general conference of C&S Unification Church held at Ibadan…yesterday

Ortom Threatens to Drag Akume to EFCC over Alleged Missing N2bn George Okoh in Makurdi The bickering between Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom and his erstwhile godfather and Minister of Special Duties and Inter-government Affairs, Senator George Akume, has taken a new dimension as the former threatened to drag the latter to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged missing N2 billion from the state’s treasury. In a leaked audio phone conversation, Ortom was heard warning Akume to get ready to refund the N2 billion he allegedly stole from the state government’s

purse when he was leaving office as governor in 2007 or prepare to face the law. Akume was the governor of Benue State between 1999 and 2007 before he handed over to Senator Gabriel Suswam. Ortom advised the minister to be guided in his utterances to elders, particularly traditional rulers in the state. He reminded Akume how he publicly tongue-lashed the Paramount Ruler of the Tiv land, Tor Tiv James Ayatse, when he recently described the monarch as a “king of politics.” The governor also begged the

minister to stop insulting his wife and First Lady, Mrs. Eunice Ortom, anytime he wants to insult him for political reasons, adding that politics is nothing but a game of interest and not a do-or-die affair. Ortom, in the recorded audio, also advised Akume to stop calling him a thiefsincehehasn’tstolenanythingfrom the purse of Benue State Government since he became governor in 2015. Inhisresponse,AkumeaskedOrtom why he shouldn’t be allegedly called thief. Reacting to that, Ortom alleged: “You (Akume) are a big thief. Didn’t you steal N2 billion belonging to Benue State Government in 2007?

I was the one that stopped the case against you then but now, I will reopen the file so that everyone in Benue will know who is a thief between you and I. “I helped you to win your senatorial election in 2015 when I came to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). It was my help that gave you victory, and that was why you couldn’t win again in 2019 because I left your party. “I will make sure that you appear on the list of anti-graft agencies that will investigate the missing N2 billion which disappeared at the tail end of your regime as governor in 2007.”

Katsina Evolves Strategies to End Banditry, Kidnapping Francis Sardauna in Katsina Katsina State Government has said it would continue to evolve workable strategies towards tackling banditry, kidnapping and other nefarious activities orchestrated by armed bandits in order to restore peace in the state. The state government therefore reassured the people of the state of its doggedness to fight the scourge and other forms of criminality to end bloodletting in the state. The governor’s Special Adviser on Security, Mr. Ibrahim Katsina, disclosed this yesterday when he

led other government officials and senior security officers on advocacy visit to Emir of Katsina, Dr. Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, at his palace. He noted that the state government was committed to putting an end to the carnage and other security challenges bedevilling the state, hence the meeting with the paramount rulers. The governor’s aide added that government had put in place strategies towards finding lasting solutions to the current security threats, saying there’s no hiding place for criminals in the state.

According to him, “Without traditional institutions, we cannot go far in tackling insecurity. Security starts and ends with them that is why we find it very imperative to partner with them to find lasting solutions to this menace. With this partnership, there will no be hiding place for criminals in the state. “We have been very proactive that is why we consulted them. The essence of this advocacy visit is to meet with relevant stakeholders to find lasting solutions to the problem. Problems we are experiencing are community-based, that is

why we started with them.” The special adviser explained that effective protection of lives and property of all residents was the fundamental constitutional responsibility of any government as such state government would not leave any stone unturned in ensuring the safety of the citizenry. Responding, the Emir charged security operatives and government not to spare any convicted hoodlum in the state irrespective of religion, tribal or political affiliation to serve as deterrent to others.

NECO Seeks Support of DSS to Tackle Exam Malpractices Kuni Tyessi in Abuja For credibility, the National Examinations Council (NECO) has sought collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) to check malpractices in the conduct of the council’s examination. NECO Chairman,

Governing Board, Dr. Abubakar Saddique, who led the Acting Registrar and other management team on a courtesy visit to the Director-General of DSS in Abuja, said the Council has put in place measures aimed at checking examination malpractices, but noted that

without adequate security architecture, such measures would not yield the desired results. Saddique, in a statement by its Head of Information, Azeez Sani, stated that among other measures, NECO has introduced the biometric capturing of candidates

to check impersonation at examination centres. He therefore appealed to the personnel of DSS to strengthen their collaboration with NECO to prevent any form of malpractices before, during and after the conduct of the council examination.

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UK to Assist Nigeria in Retrieving Stolen Ife Bronze Head with Belgian The United Kingdom has offered to assist Nigeria in retrieving the Ife Bronze Head, an antiquity stolen at National Museum, Jos in 1987 and found with a Belgian collector in London, about 30 years after. The British Minister for Arts, Heritage and Tourism, Mrs. Helen Whately, NP made the pledge yesterday in London when the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, paid her a visit in her office. News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that Mohammed is in London to engage with international media and think-tank and as well seek diplomatic way to resolve the issue of the stolen cultural object. Speaking after a closed-door meeting with his counterpart, Mohammed said they resolved to explore amicable resolution to the matter to avoid possible collateral damages among Nigeria, United Kingdom and Belgium. “UK authority is ready to assist us, but they want further documentation as to the report made to UNESCO and they also want a closer study of the report we made to UNESCO over the matter. “The three countries are before a mediation panel – Intergovernmental Committee for Promoting the Return of Cultural Property to the Countries of Origin or Restitution in Case of Illicit Appropriation (ICPRCP)-. “However, we think it is a matter that should be resolved working within the provision of the UNESCO Convention. “It was, therefore, a cordial meeting and we are very hopeful that the UK will cooperate with us,” he said.

Mohammed explained that the matter dated back to 1987, specifically, on January 14, when the National Museum in Jos was bugled and several valuable object of arts and artifacts were stolen. “Immediately this happened, the National Council for Museums and Monuments, alerted UNESCO, Interpol, International Foundation for Arts Research (IFAR) and other related international bodies. “Following the report, the object was, in accordance with the 1970 UNESCO Convention, promptly put on the red list, which means it cannot be traded, exchanged or bought. “The antiquity surfaced almost 30 years later in the UK when a Belgian vendor came to ask for it to be evaluated “When this item surfaced in the UK, the auction house notified the UK Metropolitan Police who in turn notified, UNESCO and our Permanent Representative in the commission. “Since then we have been pursuing the return of this artifact to Nigeria,” he said. Mohammed said that Nigeria did not receive the cooperation of the Belgium Government in the retrieval of the object. He said the Belgian authority claimed that they were not a party to the UNESCO Convention at the time the item was bought by their citizen. The minister said that the Belgian collector was also hiding under the provision of being a buyer in good faith and therefore asking for compensation. “As a matter of fact, he is asking for 5 million Euro for an object that he said he purchased for 240 Euro.

Plateau to Immortalise UNIMAID Student Murdered by Boko Haram Seriki Adinoyi in Jos Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State has promised to immortalise the late student from the state, Mr. Ropvil Dalyep, who was recently killed by Boko Haram terrorists while on his how way to resume school in Maiduguri, Borno State. Lalong made the promise yesterday during his condolence visit to the family of the deceased in Jing community in Lankan District of Pankshin LGA. The governor, in company of his wife, Regina and his deputy, Prof. Sonni Tyoden, went to the family house to condole with the family over the incident. Lalong who had earlier sent a delegation to the family, said he was highly distressed by the murder of the student who was on his way to seek knowledge and did not commit any offence apart from being a Christian and a citizen of Plateau State, according to his murderers. He said “If the killers of Ropvil justified their act on the fact that he is from Plateau State and a Christian, then it means he died for Plateau and Plateau State will not forget him. We will soon do something to keep his memory. His killers will never have peace and one day,

they will pay the price for their evil, whether here on earth or in the life after. He said Dalyep was a student of the University of Maiduguri and was a hero since the insurgents claimed his death was on behalf of the Plateau people. “We will find a place to put his name in Jos. I pray God will continue to console the family and the culprits be fished out,” he said. Lalong expressed sadness that Dalyep’s death was unusual because he was not sick or involved in an accident, but only pursuing his future to become great. “Their reward is in hell and his in heaven. Please take it in good faith,” he told the family. In his response, the Miskoom of Mupun, Da Yusuf Wale, commended Lalong for his passion for the progress of Plateau people. Wale also thanked the governor for the love he had shown the Mupun ethnic community to which Dalyep belonged. Dalyep, a native of Jing, was abducted on January 9 by the Boko Haram terrorists while on his way to Maiduguri to resume school and was reported killed on January 22.

“Our position is that he is not a buyer in good faith and he is not just an ordinary buyer but a collector with a very impressive collections bigger than most museum. “We believed that he ought to have made necessary enquiry from UNESCO, IFAR, and even

from the source country before buying the object,” he said. Mohammed said they were impressed with the cooperation received so far from the UK Metropolitan Police since the matter started. “Our position here is that UK, which is also bound by

the UNESCO Convention like Nigeria, and should return the object to us. “They are covered by Article 7 of the UNESCO Convention which says that when such an object surfaces in a country which is a member of the convention, diplomatic channels shall be

explored to return the object to the country of source,” he said. The minister said that based on precedence on stolen artifacts in Yemen and Tanzania which were returned to both counties of source, Nigeria is encouraged and has a good case.

CLIMATE CHANGE ON THEIR MINDS…

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Education, Mrs. Bose Adelaja; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation , Mr. Oluseyi Whenu; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources, Mrs. Ronke Odeneye; Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tunji Bello; Solicitor General/ Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Ms.Titi Shitta-Bey; and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Dr. Amuda Yussuf, during the formal inauguration of the State Committee on Climate Change in Alausa, Lagos...yesterday KOLA OLASUPO

Fayemi Appoints Akwa Ibom Indigene as Executive Secretary Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti Adhering to his administration’s policy that appointment would be based on merit, Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has approved the appointment of Barrister Akaninyene Ekanem Akpan as Executive Secretary in

the state civil service. Akpan hails from Akwa Ibom State, South-south geo-political zone of the country. Fayemi, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, said the appointment was a reward for excellence, diligence and hard work.

He said Akpan joined the state civil service as a Junior Counsel in the Ministry of Justice immediately after his National Youth Service (NYSC). Disclosing that the appointment was merit-based, Fayemi added that he rose through the ranks to become a director (in charge

of Legal Drafting and Corporate Law unit) in the ministry. Akpan, according to Fayemi, has 25-year post call-to-bar experience. “His appointment as Executive Secretary takes effect from February 1, 2020,” Fayemi said.

Former Naval Chief, Admiral Koshoni, Dies at 77 Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja A former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Patrick Koshoni, has died at the age of 77. Koshoni was Chief of Naval Staff under the former military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), between 1986 and 1990. A statement issued by the Naval Headquarters, Abuja, said the late Koshoni died on January 25, 2020

after a brief illness in Lagos. Koshoni served the nation meritoriously as the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command and as honourable minister of health, transport and aviation, as well as labour and productivity. According to the Naval Spokesman, Commodore Suleiman Dahun, the late Admiral was a member of the Supreme

Military Council and Federal Executive Council from January 1984 to August 1985. During his tenure as the Chief of the Naval Staff, he led initiatives for the articulation of Nigeria’s foremost maritime strategy, the Nigerian Navy Trident Strategy and helped to institutionalise the presidential fleet review, manpower rationalisation for the service and the Chief of

Naval Staff’s Annual Conference, which has continued to serve as a veritable platform for strategic engagement and policy review. On retirement from service, the indefatigable Admiral also served as the Chairman, National Internal Security Organisation (defunct National Guard). He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Margaret Aderoju Koshoni, children and several grandchildren.

CAN Disowns Pastor Who Allegedly Kidnapped Self John Shiklam in Kaduna The Kaduna State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has declared that one James Clement, who allegedly faked his own kidnap and demanded N5 million ransoms from his family, was never a pastor. Clement, who claimed to be a pastor, was arrested on Monday with George Otokpa, for conspiring and staging the fake kidnapping. The State Chairman of CAN, Rev. Joseph Hayab, in a statement released yesterday in Kaduna, said that investigations

by the association showed that Clement was not a pastor. Hayab said: “We carried out investigations to confirm whether James Clement is truly a pastor and our findings revealed that he is not a pastor. “Any pastor or Christian who faked his own kidnap or is confirmed to have any dirty business to do with kidnappers should be arrested and prosecuted. “Kidnappers have caused us pains and sorrow and our faith and association will not support or defend evil. “James Clement, who was arrested with his collaborator

for faking his own kidnap, is not a pastor in any church.” Hayab added that some of them were road side artisans who claimed to be clergies when their businesses were not moving well. “How can a true pastor planned to defraud his family by faking his own kidnap? This is unchristian and no culture in our dear country supports such evil behavior,” Hayab wondered. He commended the security agents for arresting and exposing people like Clement. “We hope and pray that they will go after more bad eggs

in our community and arrest them. This will help to sanitise the community and separate good from evil. “We are appealing to our members and the general public to help in exposing people with dubious attitudes around them,” Hayab said. The police, in a statement on Wednesday, said the culprits were arrested by the Police Anti-Kidnapping Unit on Monday. Clement was allegedly reported to have faked his own kidnap while Otokpa engaged his family to negotiate for ransom.

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PDP Urges Presidency Not to Politicise Nigerians’ Concerns over Insecurity Chuks Okocha in Abuja Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday counselled officials of the Muhammadu Buhari Presidency not to attempt to politicise or trivialise demands by Nigerians for the resignation

of its government as a response to its evident failure to guarantee security of lives and property in the country. The party, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, said the Buhari Presidency must accept

the concerns on insecurity, which it said, transcended ethnic, political and religious boundaries, especially after the President admitted failure by expressing “surprise” at the level of insecurity across the nation under its watch. PDP noted that the fact that

SERAP’s Report Shows Nigerians Back FG’s Anti-corruption War, Says Malami Alex Enumah in Abuja The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice (AGF), Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), yesterday expressed satisfaction that Nigerians have taken interest and are actually in support of the federal government’s fight against corruption in the country. Malami’s position was contained in a statement signed by the Special Assistant on Media and Public Relations Office of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr Umar Gwandu. According to the media aide, the AGF’s remark came as a response to the recently released report of a survey conducted by the Socio-Economic Right and Accountability Project (SERAP) tagged “Nigeria: Anti-Corruption Social Norms Report 2019”. “In what can be seen as a remarkable success of the “Change- Begins-With-Me Campaign”, more Nigerians believed that they have roles to play in curbing the menace of corruption, including speaking against corruption, choosing to be corrupt-free, supporting government’s efforts against corruption and reporting cases of corruption to authorities among others,” the statement quoted the report as saying. Gwandu added that the report noted that the observation, however, needs to be read by an appreciation that even taking personal responsibility through speaking against corruption or being non-corrupt is also a great indication of progress by the government-led anticorruption bodies. “According to the survey, more than half of Nigerians (56.5 per cent of people surveyed) believed that corruption can be successfully fought in the country. “Breaking-down the statistic, the report shows that 56.7 per cent of Nigerians surveyed responded positively that they are optimistic the Federal Government of Nigeria is capable of reducing or ending corruption in the country which is a clear indicator of the confidence Nigerians have in the Federal Government’s anti-corruption fight. “SERAP survey was conducted using face to face interview and using semistructured questionnaires to 2,549 respondents across all the six geo-political zones of

Nigeria covering eight states of Ondo, Enugu, Rivers, Lagos, Adamawa, Kano, Kaduna and Kwara where Abuja was added due to its status as the Federal Capital of Nigeria”, the statement read in part.

According to the report, almost 54 per cent of the respondents reported actually have taken a step against corruption in the last 12 months preceding to the survey.

the Presidency resorted to hauling insults, hate language and threats against patriotic Nigerians, including senators, instead of addressing issues of insecurity, showed that indeed the Buhari Presidency has no answer to the litany of security challenges under its administration. “It is instructive for the Buhari Presidency to note that the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, whose voice resonated in the chamber of the Senate, spoke the mind of majority of Nigerians who had become bullied, harassed and despondent in the face of escalated insurgency, bloodletting, killings and other acts of violence that have pervaded our nation.

“Senator Abaribe spoke on behalf of millions of Nigerians who have been killed, orphaned, widowed, maimed, rendered childless and homeless, as well as others who daily live in anguish, pain and fear in the face of worsening insecurity under the failed Buhari administration,” the party said. On account of this, PDP counselled officials of the Buhari Presidency to perish any thoughts of harassment, setup, frame-up or victimisation of Abaribe, who rose to the occasion through the constitutionally guaranteed privilege of the parliament to speak on behalf of ordinary Nigerians. PDP recalled that when the

President, in 2013, unjustifiably called for the resignation of then president Goodluck Jonathan, the Jonathan Presidency never resorted to insults and threats, even when such a call was completely unfounded, unlike in the present situation where every indicator pointed to an alarming trajectory towards a failed state. The opposition party urged the National Assembly to stand with Nigerians and resist every attempt that would make it succumb to any form of harassments, intimidations and innuendos from paid agents and cabal in the Presidency who have shown that the interest of ordinary Nigerians is not their priority.

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Scores Displaced as Communities Clash in Benue George Okoh in Makurdi Hundreds of houses have been burnt and thousands of persons displaced in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State as a result of communal clash.

According to an eye witness, who pleaded anonymity, the unfortunate incident was caused by a lingering crisis, adding that it’s usually over tussle for land. The source said it’s a struggle over ownership of land between

Nurses Express Concern over Nigeria’s Preparedness for Coronavirus

the indigenes, Iharev and the settlers Iparev. Speaking with newsmen after undertaking an assessment tour of the destroyed area, Benue State Secretary to the Government, Prof. Anthony Ijohor, frowned at the magnitude of destruction, noting that it’s “unexpected” and “embarrassing” to the state. “The level of destruction is massive. Imagine brothers who have lived together for over 60 years engaging in this kind of

destruction. Though there was no loss of life, we will bring the full might of the state and security apparatus to ensure that the culprits are brought to book. “The crisis has to do basically with land. When you talk about land, you also, talk of urbanisation. It is an issue of indigene/settlers. I came here to have firsthand information about the crisis, so that we would know what action to take as a government. I want to urge the people to exercise restraint

and not to embark on any reprisal attack,” he said. District Head of Mbawur/ Mbayongo in Makurdi Local Government Area, Chief Peter Tor Abaka, said all efforts made to ensure the dispute did not degenerate to this level failed even as he described the level of destruction as “unacceptable.” He also out rightly denied any involvement of traditional chiefs in the crisis. Member of Benue State House

of Assembly, representing Makurdi South, Terwase Aondoaka, blamed the crisis on nonremittance of funds from block moulding at the Riverside to the former district head. “I gathered that a peace agreement was signed that people should stop moulding blocks at the Riverside, but some persons violated that peace pact and that is why the problem started,” he said.

FG ready for emergency, minister insists Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The leadership of National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has expressed fears over the safety of its members in an eventual outbreak of Coronavirus in the country. The association’s concern was coming just as the Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, assured Nigerians of the federal government’s readiness to protect the country against the import of Coronavirus including provision of funds needed in any event of an outbreak. Speaking to journalists shortly after declaring open the 2020 Conference of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives in Abuja, Ehanire said federal government was doing everything possible to ensure the prevention of Coronavirus from being imported into the country. “Nigeria is ready. Among the countries of the world when we had Ebola, Nigeria was one of the countries that handled it well. We have competent and astute manpower. Yes, our health system may be fragile, but when we come together as Nigerians we are able to overcome any challenge,” he said.

He also said government would ensure that resources are made available to tackle any epidemic outbreak, including the efforts to address the cases of Lassa fever in some parts of the country. NANNM President, Comrade Abdulrauf Adeniji, who spoke to journalists in an interview during the opening ceremony of the conference, described one of the major challenges limiting the nursing profession in Nigeria as lack of infrastructure. “As nurses and midwives, we are bracing up for any outbreak of Coronavirus, but our major challenge is lack of infrastructure. The situation we are right now is like sending a soldier to the warfront to confront the Boko Haram terrorists without ammunition, the implication is that you are just sending that person to the slaughter slab,” he said. Adeniji explained that nurses are in the forefront of the effort to detect and prevent disease epidemic, adding that they form the bulk of the personnel deployed as Port Health officials positioned at the airports, seaports and various ports of entry to screen and eventually treat any identified cases of infection.

Kwara Gov Signs 2020 Budget Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has described the 2020 Appropriation Bill as a budget designed to rebuild the state in a manner that would uplift people from poverty and address infrastructural deficit. AbdulRazaq made this description yesterday when he assented to the appropriation bill. He commended the House of Assembly for subjecting the budget proposal to a thorough scrutiny before it was passed. According to a press statement that was issued yesterday by the Chief Press Secretary to the State’s Governor, Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor recalled how he told some members of the executive that the lawmakers were empowered to make input into the budget as the direct representatives of the people. The legislators made an upward review of the capital expenditure from 53 per cent to 55 per cent of the budget and reduced the recurrent expenditure from 47 per cent to 44 per cent of the budget. The adjustments increased the budget by N476 million in favour of capital expenditure. “This is not a rubber stamp

budget. I know what is in it and I agree with it in totality. I know there are changes but I agree with it because as representatives of the people, you’re closer to the people and can make input into the budget. It’s all for the good of our people,” AbdulRazaq said. Apart from the budget, which he said would drive socioeconomic and infrastructural growth of the state; the governor also noted that provisions were deliberately made to lift as many people as possible out of extreme poverty. These provisions included the passage of the Social Investment Programme Bill, whose provisions were reflected in the 2020 budget “for the benefit of the poorest of the poor in our society. “It is a programme that will help the poorest of the poor and increase our GDP. We also intend to commence the school feeding programme this year. So many other programmes and projects have been captured in the budget to benefit the people. This is indeed a budget for the people of Kwara State,” AbdulRazaq said.

GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY…

L-R: Manager, Non-operated Venture Assets, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo), Mrs. Yemi Asaolu; member, Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr. Olanrewaju Afinni; Managing Director of SNEPCo, Mr. Bayo Ojulari; Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Akin Abayomi; Acting Public Affairs Manager, National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), Mrs. Yetunde Azendah; SNEPCo’s General Manager, Bonga South West Aparo Project, Mr. Adam Bradley; and Deputy Manager, Community Development of NAPIMS, Mrs. Clementina Arubi, at the inauguration of medical equipment donated by NNPC and SNEPCo to the General Hospital, Odan, Lagos Island… recently recently.

100m Nigerians Threatened by Tropical Diseases, Says Ehanire Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, has said about 100 million Nigerians are currently faced with the risk of some tropical diseases such as Guinea worm, leprosy, elephantiasis, river blindness, rabies and sleeping sickness. He said the disease prevalence could be linked to high poverty level and lack of basic healthcare facilities in most rural areas of the country. Speaking at the first World NTD Day in Abuja organised by the Federal Ministry of Health in conjunction with the

World Health Organisation (WHO) yesterday, the minister said Nigeria’s large population exposes it to ‘endemicity’, adding that NTDs are mostly found in sub-Saharan Africa with millions of children trapped in the cycle of diseases. He described NTD as a diverse group of communicable diseases that prevailed in tropical and sub-tropical conditions. According to him, “They (NTDs) are singled out because of the adverse impact they have and their relative obscurity and availability of tools to combat them. Grouping the diseases

together is a strategy to bring attention to these often overlooked causes of misery. People afflicted are usually poor, vulnerable and left on their own to face the debilitating consequence of the NTDs.” Ehanire said there are over 20 of these diseases in the country. He said: “Nigeria’s large population makes it a prominent endemic country for NTDs in sub-Saharan Africa with over 100 million persons or more at risk of the NTDs in all the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. “Most of the affected persons

live in locations under poor conditions with limited or no access to basic education and healthcare amenities like potable water, sanitation or knowledge of hygiene. “NTDs can result in blindness, deafness, and various forms of physical disabilities or disfigurement. A child suffering from NTDs shies away from attending schools and grows up with no skill. He is hindered by basic occupation like farming and fishing or any avenue of earning a living. They are trapped in cycle of diseases and poverty.”

Enugu Approves N30,000 Minimum Wage for Civil Servants Arinze Gideon in Enugu Enugu State Government has approved the report of the joint committee of labour and the government, set up by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, for negotiation of the consequential adjustment of the N30,000 minimum wage for the state’s civil servants, because of its commitment to workers’ welfare and the entire citizens of the state. Briefing newsmen on outcome of the State Executive Council meeting on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, who confirmed the state government’s approval of the consequential

adjustment for payment of N30,000 minimum wage to all civil servants with effect from February, stated the decision was also as a result of the harmonious relationship between the government and labour. The organised labour’s state leadership led by the Chairman of the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council, Comrade Chukwuma Igbokwe, had earlier announced that the State Executive Council, after a meeting with the union, approved the consequential adjustment for payment of the new minimum wage to all civil servants in the state. Igbokwe, who disclosed that labour is comfortable with the

decision reached, added that the council’s approval was a product of collective bargaining between labour and the government. Noting that this was the first time labour was involved in the issue of minimum wage negotiation, he commended the governor for his inclusive governance style and sustained commitment to workers’ welfare. Also speaking, the Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Mrs. Adaonah Kene-Uyanwune, stated that the consequential adjustment approved by the council was provided for in the 2020 budget. Uyanwune explained that after

presentation of the budget to Enugu State Assembly, which was approved by the Assembly and signed by the governor, a committee was set up to review and look into the consequential adjustment for civil servants. The commissioner added that a technical committee was also set up to look in-depth into the figures based on the economic indices of the state, saying: “We had to look at our income, expenditures, internally generated revenue, among others” to arrive at the consequential adjustment, which cuts across board from Grade levels 1 to 17.

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Anambra PDP Insists Ifeanyi Ubah’s Certificate Not Authentic Akinwale Akintunde The last may not have been heard in the tussle for the Anambra South senatorial seat between incumbent Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of the Young Progressive Party (YPP) and his challenger, Dr. Obinna Uzoh of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This is as a top member of the Anambra State chapter of the PDP is insisting that the National

Examination Council (NECO) School Certificate tendered by Ubah to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was forged even though the examination body had affirmed the authenticity of the politician’s certificate. The top PDP member, who spoke with THISDAY on account of anonymity, said the party would explore all possible legal means available to retrieve its mandate

from Ubah. Uzoh had filed the pre-election suit challenging the nomination of Ubah and his party, YPP for the Anambra South senatorial election, alleging that he (Ubah) presented a forged NECO certificate to INEC. The presiding judge of the court, Justice Bello Kawu, in his judgment nullified Ubah’s election as the senator representing Anambra South, for allegedly using a forged NECO certificate to contest the senatorial election held on February 23, 2019.

The court had also ordered INEC to withdraw the certificate of return issued to Ubah and issue a fresh certificate of return to Uzoh of the PDP who came second in the election as the senator-elect for the district. The lawmaker, however, approached the Federal High Court in Abuja to set aside the judgment on the grounds that he was neither given fair hearing nor served with the court process and hearing notice in the suit before the court delivered the judgment

against him. Following his application for a stay of execution, Justice Kawu on December 4, restrained the Senate President from swearing-in Uzoh, pending the hearing and determination of the motion challenging the verdict. The court equally ordered all the parties, including the INEC to maintain the status quo until it decides the merit in Ubah’s contention. But the judge on Friday, January 17 held that Ubah’s application to

vacate its judgment lacked merit and accordingly dismissed it. However, NECO wrote to the YPP leadership affirming that the NECO certificate issued to Ubah in 2003 was genuine. But the PDPalleged that the NECO certificate which Ubah submitted to INEC and the one NECO validated are two different certificates. “There is everything wrong with the NECO certificate which Ubah submitted to INEC and the one NECO validated. The two certificates are different.

to the police. In panic, some neighbours who heard the volley of the shots, apparently from pump action rifles ran out of their shops, unlocked and fled for fear of being hit by stray bullets. He said he immediately reported the incident to the nearby Oba Market Police station where a team of policemen were drafted to assess the extent of the damage done to the building. One of the injured persons, who spoke to journalists, Mr. Alufa Osayiniye, said he was at the office of Idahagbon when people began to shout, and the next thing he had was gun shots and decided to dock as blood was gushing out of his head.

“I came to see our leader, Hon. Henry. Idahagbon. I was seated there with others when we heard them scattering things and shouting,” he said. Another victim, Bruno Odaro, a surveyor with his office in the same building, said some persons in Hilux van branded with government number came “shouting: where is Idahagbon, and started destroying things around and shooting simultaneously. When contacted through his mobile phone, the Edo State Police spokesman, Mr. Chidi Nwanbuzor, said he was not aware of the incident, adding: “I am not aware of any shooting. I just heard of it from you for the

first time.” But the Special Adviser to the state Governor, Godwin Obaseki, on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, said the disruption of peace in Edo State by some APC leaders is taking a dangerous dimension He said the complaint of an alleged attack by one of the leaders of the proscribed Edo Peoples Movement (EPM), Idahagbon, is the latest step in the plot to disrupt peace and safety in the state. Osagie noted that the state government has continuously warned the dissidents in the EPM, “who are hell-bent on breaking down the law and order in the state.

FG Develops Framework Edo APC Chieftain Alleges Attack by Gunmen to Exploit Potential in Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-city Bio-economy James Emejo inAbuja The federal government yesterday said it has commenced a process towards finalising a blueprint for a National Bio-economy Strategic Framework for the country. Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Prince Clem Agba, said bio-based products and markets can become major driver of growth for the economy in the new decade “If we put our acts together and do the right thing,” adding that: “We cannot lose out in this direction this time around.” Speaking while declaring a workshop on creating a sustainable bio-economy in Nigeria, he noted that the German bio-based economy grew by 22 per cent between 2002 and 2010 while regional bodies, including the European Union, are also working out measures to place their bio-economy on the right path for rapid and sustainable growth. The minister further stated that the Medium Term National Development Plan (2021-2025), which is currently being prepared to replace the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) which elapsed later this year as well as the Agenda 2030 are expected to accentuate and provide

a coordinated approach for harnessing the inherent potential of the bio-economy towards addressing the unemployment challenges in the country going forward. He said though globally, preparation of bio-economy strategy and harnessing bioresources are of recent initiatives, several countries have nonetheless carefully crafted their bio-economy strategies for efficient utilisation of bio-resources while at the same time ensuring inter-generational equity by safeguarding the environment. Agba noted that the country has huge potential in bio resources, particularly biomass, which could be harnessed to create wealth, jobs and enhance the growth and development of the economy. He said the diversification of the economy and revenue bases had become critical and of immediate importance to address the challenges of fragile growth and dwindling revenue base, adding that the creation of bio-economy will further promote the present administration’s diversification agenda. Agba said the opportunities in the bio-economy could also address instances of low investment and foreign capital inflows, high rates of unemployment and incidence of poverty.

The lingering crisis between the feuding factions of the Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Party (APC) yesterday turned bloody as a top member of the party, Mr. Henry Idahagbon, claimed that he narrowly escaped death when gunmen suspected to be hired assassins attacked him in his office. Idahagbon, a former Edo State attorney-general and commissioner of justice, said the gunmen who came in three vehicles fired several shots at his office located on Siluko Road, near the popular Oliha Market in Benin-city. He said he was in his office attending to his clients when he was jolted by the volley of bullets which were aimed at his office sited on the mid-floor of the three-storey building. Idahagbon, who has since gone underground, said he quickly dashed for the back exit through which he escaped, even as the shooting was still going on, adding that many persons were injured in the process. While lamenting the incident, he said: “I was in my office attending to some clients when I heard the echoes of gunshots directed at my office. I immediately ran out. Thank God nobody was injured. The windows were shattered while the building is pockmarked with bullets. However, I have reported the matter

Ekiti Denies Alleged Outbreak of Lassa Fever Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti As panic grips the country over outbreak of Lassa fever, the Ekiti State Government has said there is no cause for alarm over the outbreak of Lassa fever in some states in the country as there’s no confirmed single case of the fever in the state. The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Mojisola Yaya-Kolade, stated this in Ado Ekiti while addressing journalists on the preparedness of the state to fight Lassa fever which had reportedly hit neighboring states of Ondo, Osun and Kogi recently. Yaya-Kolade noted that all primary health facilities, Specialist and General Hospitals, university Teaching Hospital as well as the Federal Teaching Hospital across the state have been sensitised and adequately

prepared on the issue of Lassa fever. “We are doing a lot of sensitisation and educating for food handlers, store keepers, and all residents in the state on radio, television and in all our health facilities across the state,” she stated. The commissioner disclosed that Lassa fever, which she noted was contagious, could be contacted through rat or contact with someone who has been infected. “The transmission could be through rats which are the vectors carrying it or through infected human,” she said. Yaya-Kolade appealed to Ekiti residents to make personal hygiene their lifestyle, adding that they should engage in consistence and regular hand washing, cover their food, especially garri, properly and refrain from bush burning.

“Cover your garri very well; ensure that the production process is done hygienically; clean your environment to avoid breeding of rats, and be cautious of contact with people,” the commissioner stressed. She said the Oba Adejuyigbe General Hospital has been dedicated as a quarantine centre for any confirmed case of Lassa fever in Ekiti State. Also, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Health, Dr. Jimlas Ogunsakin, disclosed that the incubation period for Lassa fever was between two to 21 days, and that any suspect should be screened adequately. Ogunsakin noted that the symptoms of Lassa fever include high temperature, headache, vomiting and hitching of the body.

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Fire Guts House in Lagos as Victims Attack Emergency Responders Chiemelie Ezeobi As the victims of the fire outbreak in Balogun market counted their losses, another outbreak occurred at No. 44 Adebayo Street, Alapere, Ketu, also in Lagos last night. The fire, which razed a block of flats consisting six units, also injured four persons slightly, with the fifth person sustaining severe burns. Confirming the incident, the Chief Executive Officer of Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr. Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu said on arrival at the scene, a block of flats consisting six

units was gutted by fire. He said: “On arrival at the scene, it was determined that there were five casualties with four treated on the scene and the fifth victim taken to hospital with severe burns. “The cause of the fire is as yet is unknown as there was power outage, but there is speculation that it came from a gas cylinder explosion. Two units were affected while the prompt response of the fire service prevented the further spread. “Fire is under control but we requested police back up due to miscreants hampering our rescue efforts even though we appealed for calm and

restraint as we worked to contain the fire.” Meanwhile, in a situation report provided by the agency on the Balogun Market fire, LASEMA said a total of 17 people sustained injuries while

15 were treated at the scene. He said: “Two had to be hospitalised-a pregnant female for shock and one of our own firefighters for injuries from the collapsed building. “A total of nine buildings

were severely affected, four have already been leveled to ground zero having failed integrity tests, the remaining five will be subjected to testing; those that fail will also be demolished.

“The bulk of the fire has been curtailed while some pockets remain along with some residual sparks and the fire services continue in their efforts to fully extinguish the flames.”

Uzodinma Challenges Manufacturers to Attract Investments to Imo Dike Onwuamaeze The Governor of Imo State, Mr. Hope Uzodimma, has challenged members of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) to attract investments to the state. Uzodinma threw the challenge when he received leaders of Imo State’s Chapter of MAN at the Government House in Owerri. He said: “I am not unaware of your challenges. We are committed to ensure that our state is industrialised to create employment for our youths.” The governor promised to visit the state’s industrial layout, which is located on Onitsha Road, and to follow it up with the constitution of a Joint Technical Committee that would come up with a blue print on how to resuscitate the industrial layout.

He warned that his administration would not hesitate to revoke Certificates of Occupancy allotted to unserious beneficiaries. In his remark, the State’s President of MAN, Mr. Chuma Eluma, thanked the governor for thinking outside the box in his quest to make the state the manufacturing hub of the South East. Eluma attributed the high cost of production in the state to the deplorable state of roads, inadequate power supply and constant extortion by security personnel. He called on the state government to improve the physical infrastructure in the state to enable manufacturers to contribute optimally to the economic development of the state.

NDA Restates Commitment to Military Ethics,Values John Shiklam in Kaduna The Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, Major Gen. Jamil Sarham, has declared that the ethics of the institution will not be allowed to go down the drain. Speaking when members of the 27 Regular Course of the academy paid him a visit yesterday in his office, Sarham said everything would be done to uphold the cherished values, ethics and reputation of the institution. He said the standard set by the military institution which has produced notable leaders would never be compromised. Just recently, the authorities of the academy withdrew some cadets while others were demoted for indiscipline and general misconduct. Sarham called for the support of all members of Course 27 and other Courses set to support the NDA management team in trying to uphold the cherished values and traditions of the academy. “I cherished the visit. The story about the 27 Regular Course is that of excellence and maintenance of culture and tradition.

“The NDA, no doubt is one of the foundational training centres for leadership in our country. It has produced men who have held various positions of leadership in our country. For that and more, we can’t allow the ethics of the NDA to go down the drain. “I call for the support of all members of Course 27 and other Courses before us to do everything humanly possible to support the NDA management team in trying to uphold the cherished NDA values and traditions. “What you have done today is a testimony of the fact that you consider yourselves as critical stakeholders in the affairs of the NDA,” the commandant said. He said other Courses had made donations to the academy, including 26 Regular Course, which placed a chair and an endowment of N10 million for research in the academic branch. According to him, “Let me use this opportunity to urge other Courses to follow suit in this endeavour. That will spur those of us who are managing the affairs of the NDA on your behalf to do more.

ACCESSING PRIVATE FINANCE…

L-R: Secretary General, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Mr. Angel Gurria; and Director, Governance and Sustainability, Sahara Group, Mrs. Pearl Uzokwe, at the OECD’s Private Finance for Sustainable Development Conference in Paris, France…recently

MILITARY BEGINS ASSESSMENT OF INTERNAL OPERATIONS FOR TROOPS’ WITHDRAWAL That is what is going on now. There are assessments going on; evaluations are going on. So, whatever the outcome of those evaluations and findings are, it is on that basis that whatever is going to be done will be appraised,” he said. The military had launched Operation Hadarin Daji in Zamfara to tackle banditry, Operation Whirl Stroke to contain herdsmen/farmers clashes in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States and Operation Safe Haven to tackle communal and ethno-religious crisis in Plateau State as well as Operations Delta Safe in the South-south. “The operations as it stands are ongoing. The Operation Lafiya Dole is still there on counterinsurgency and terrorism. In the North-west, we have Operation Hadarin Daji addressing issues of banditry. In Benue State, we have Operation Whirl Stroke addressing the issues of banditry and herders-farmers clashes and communal clashes”, Nwachukwu explained. In reassuring Nigerians that government would not allow volatile states unprotected, President Muhammadu Buhari

had said: “You don’t need to worry. We will not expose our people and their communities to harm or danger.” A statement by his spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, quoted the president as saying that “the withdrawal is to allow the military focus on its primary duty of defending the nation against external aggression. It is the duty of the police to handle internal security since Nigeria is not at war.” No Inch of Nigeria Would Be Ceded to Terrorists, Says DHQ Meanwhile, the DHQ has vowed to ensure that no inch of Nigeria’s territory is ceded to terrorists. Nwachukwu said the military would not give any space to the terrorists as it would defend Nigeria’s territory and sovereignty to the last man. According to him, the military had made progress since the outbreak of hostilities in 2009 by halting the inordinate ambition of the terrorists to declare a caliphate in North-eastern Nigeria, forcing it into factionalisation and degrading it to the status of remnants that seek soft targets.

He said: “We have made progress in the fight against terrorism since 2009. We know what the situation was like before today. We know the state of Boko Haram before they were joined by ISWAP. “Boko Haram was completely decimated and that was what led to the factionalisation of Boko Haram because it could not attain their mission and objective of declaring a caliphate in North-eastern Nigeria. “That was why Boko Haram split into two. We have the Shekau faction and the al-Barnawi faction. Again, the al-Barnawi faction split in two - Mamman Nuhu and Al-Barnawi again because they failed in delivering. They could not deliver. And the only reason why they could not deliver was because they were dealt with by the federal troop. “Mamman Nuhu was assassinated. It became a power tussle because they could not deliver and it came to a state where they had to pledge allegiance to Islamic State, which has now been defeated in Syria by the allied forces and their ultimate leader, Abubakar al-Baghdadi, annihilated.

“So what the Islamic State for West Africa is doing today is to save the face of global terrorism, having been defeated but we assure them that Nigeria is not a place for global terrorism to flourish.” On terror-financing, he said it was a phenomenon that required global attention. He added: “Terrorism has become a global phenomenon that must be give global attention. They are defeated in Syria and they have drifted by migrating to the West Africa sub-region. “They want to save the face of global terrorism, having been defeated. The question is, how are these people acquiring their weapons and weapon systems? It requires huge funds, how are they acquiring their logistics? Who is funding them, how are they funded?” Nwachukwu said the issues of money laundering and drug peddling were inter-linked and are sources of funding for terrorism. He called on the international community to address the problem of money laundering, drug peddling through which terrorism is financed.

Youth Boot Camp Registration Closes Feb 2 Registration for Creative Youth Boot Camp, a youth empowerment initiative of the Street Project Foundation (SPF) will close on February 2. The programme, which holds in Abuja between March and April, is conceived to help Nigerians aged between 16 and 25 to develop their skills in all genres of creative, visual and performing arts. This was

made known in a statement by the foundation. Over a six-week period, said the SPF, participants will be exposed to training in music, dance, drama, visual arts, comedy, poetry, creative writing, spoken word, fashion and any other artistic genres. In addition, the programme will teach communication, critical thinking, emotional intelligence,

team building, entrepreneurship and project management skills to prepare participants for the pursuit of their passions and provide a platform for them to showcase their talents. On completion of training at the boot camp, participants will be matched with mentors and placed on internships with corporate organisations in the creative sector

in Abuja. Auditions for this year’s edition will hold in Abuja and Enugu. Prospective participants are required to have aptitude in the listed fields and come from either a disadvantaged community or a low-income background. Young people with physical disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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Makinde: Amotekun Shaping up Well

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State yesterday said that the Southwest security initiative, Operation Amotekun was shaping up well. Makinde spoke at the 80th Annual General Conference of the Cherubim and Seraphim Unification Church of Nigeria, in

Ashi, Orita Bashorun, Ibadan, the state capital. “I was with the Inspector-General of Police yesterday (Wednesday) and we had deliberation on how to make our state and country secure. “We also discussed on how

Amotekun is not supposed to replace the function of the Nigeria Police Force and the community police they are setting up. Very soon, we will begin to reap the reward of OperationAmotekun. “All the issues before us are being addressed right now; Amotekun is definitely here to stay.” I will continue to work for the

benefit of all to provide a peaceful, safe and secure state. We cannot worship God in an atmosphere of fear. I am happy that Amotekun is shaping up brilliantly.” The governor commended the Church for its continuous prayer for the success of his administration and urged them to have deliberations on how the Church would move forward.

On the local government crisis, he said, “The councils’ dissolution case is before the court. There is a court injunction against the people who are trying to foment trouble. For me as the chief security officer, we will definitely not allow lawlessness.” Earlier, the Supreme Head of the C and S Unification Church Worldwide, Dr. Solomon Alao,

urged the National Assembly to amend the constitution to ensure that general elections were held in November such that all legal entanglements would have been resolved before inauguration in May. He said, “It does not make sense to elect a governor only to have him removed six months after.”

The Lagos State Government said yesterday it had reached an agreement with the China Embassy in Nigeria to quarantine all Chinese returning to Lagos from their country to prevent the outbreak of coronavirus. The state Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, told journalists that the Chinese

government, through her embassy in Nigeria was working with Lagos State Government to prevent the entry of coronavirus into the state. “We are very happy with the cooperation we are receiving from the Chinese government. We’ve had a very serious and high-level discussion with the Chinese government through their

embassy in Lagos. Our primary concern has been the return of their citizens to Lagos in a few days and we are happy to inform you that the Embassy of China is also concerned about this, and they have sent out information through notifications to their citizens and companies located in Lagos that their citizens should try and remain

in China until there is clarity about how this infection is going. “However, if some of them choose to return, and we cannot restrict people, if they do return to Lagos, the instruction from the Chinese Embassy is that they should be quarantined for a period of 10 to 14 days in their houses, hostels and accommodations.”

PDP Backs Abaribe’s Call on Buhari to Resign Lagos to Quarantine Chinese Returnees Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday said it totally supports the call by the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, on the President Muhammadu Buhari to resign over his supposed inability to curtail the rising insecurity in the country. The PDP National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, made this known during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja. Secondus said it was imperative for the President to declare a state of emergency on insecurity, adding that bad governance was the cause of the rising insecurity of lives and property in some parts of Nigeria as well as unemployment and abject poverty. He accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of retarding national development and fuelling insecurity, unemployment, and economic retardation through

bad policies. He said, “In the last four years of the current regime, we can see that good governance has been a terrible challenge for this country. What we have experienced now is a direct dictatorship by the APC government. “The lack of good governance in our country is the cause of the insecurity, underdevelopment and the suffering of the masses. As a result, the economy has collapsed regardless of whichever way the government is carrying on with its propaganda. “We can see the judgment from the international community, the Transparency International, has just endorsed that this country presently is more corrupt than ever and so where are we heading to?” He stated that the PDP supports Abaribe over his call for the APC government to resign.

Ibadan Discos Goes Cashless on Transactions Esther Oluku Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has said that all bill payments and vending transactions of its industrial and commercial customers will be done cashless from March 31, 2020. The power distribution company explained that the development is in line with the cashless policy initiative introduced by the federal

government as directed by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). The industrial and commercial customers which fall under the Residential (R3) and maximum demand categories are implored to take advantage of the hassle-free payment platforms. The company had earlier announced that from February 1, 2020, there will be an upward

review in the prices of meters sold to customers under the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme introduced in 2019. The company said in a statement that the increase is necessitated by the federal government’s increase in the value added tax (VAT) from five per cent to 7.5 per cent. In the light of the above, a single-phase meter which used

to cost N38,325 (VAT inclusive) will now cost N39,237.50( VAT inclusive), while the three-phase Meter, which used to cost N70,350.00(VAT inclusive) will now costs N72, 025.00(VAT inclusive) . Subsequently, the meter service charge on MAP payment by installments will also be reviewed to accommodate the new VAT charge.

MISSING DOCUMENTS Senator Canvasses Amendment to Electoral Act This is to notify the general public that the property situate at Block 157, Flat 5, Amuwo-Odofin Housing Estate, Mile 2, Amuwo-Odofin LGA, Lagos belong to Mrs. Grace Inoniyegha and the original documents are missing. Please If found, return to the nearest Police Station or call +234 8104 216 463

Deji Elumoye and Chuks Okocha in Abuja A member of the National Assembly, Senator Christopher Ekpenyong, yesterday canvassed for the amendment of the Electoral Act to make the use of card readers compulsory for voters during elections. Ekpenyong, representing Akwa-Ibom North West senatorial district on the platform

of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), assured Nigerians that the ninth Senate would ensure that an amendment to the Electoral Act to make card reader compulsory for election is passed soon. Speaking with journalists after plenary, Ekpenyong, who

narrated his experience during the re-run election with his opponent and former Governor of Akwa Ibom State and now Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio, said he was ready to sponsor a bill on the amendment of the Electoral Act.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKECHUKWU IHUOMA OLUEBUBE FAVOUR, now wish known and addressed as MRS NWANKWO IHUOMA OLUEBUBE FAVOUR. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS RUTH ELO. OHWOBETE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS RUTH ELO. IWEGBU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as PETER THANKGOD ATUEGBU, now wish to be known and addressed as PETER NGOZI ATUEGBU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I Formerly known as MISS AMARACHI ONWUKA now wish to be addressed as MRS. AMARACHI GRACE ONYEFORO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS FAITH ELOGHENE OJUH, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS FAITH ELOGHENE OBAZE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I Formerly known as ADESIMBO OLUWAYEMISI OLUBUSAYO SOGBESAN now wish to be addressed as ADESIMBO OLUWAYEMISI OLUBUSAYO ADEYELURE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly Known and addressed as MR. NWAOZURU FRIDAY OKWU, now wish to be known and addressed as MR NWAOZURU FRIDAY OKWUOHA. All formal documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as ALEONOKHUA EMASO DORIS, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS SOLOMON EMASO DORIS. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OGECHI JOY ODOEMENA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OGECHI JOY DOYE-AGBIKI. All former documents remain valid general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as MISS UJAH MARY ENE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OBINNA FRANKLIN OGUAMAH. All former documents remain valid. Nigerian Ports Authority and the general public should take note

According to him, “The card reader is a very strong device both in accreditation and the determination of who votes by the electorate, and it is through the card reader that we can determine the votes that is being cast, and not just for the court to say it is not recognised in law. “So we must make sure that the card reader is recognised by law. That is the only way we can go in our Electoral Act. I have gone through electoral processes in Nigeria and to that extent, I will come up with a bill that will change the circumstances of our electoral process that enables the

people to choose their leaders and not by guns or court.” On how his representation has impacted on the lives of his constituents, the lawmaker said he had empowered about 180 persons from Akwa-Ibom North-West senatorial district with resources to invest and fend for themselves. According to him, “I invited one person each from the 180 wards in my senatorial district to my local government area and brought another person from my border community and gave each of them the sum of N100,000 to engage in a business of their choice.”

Abia Approves N30,100 Minimum Wage for Workers Emmanuel Ugwu in Umuahia Abia State Government yesterday agreed to pay its workers N30,100 minimum wage following a successful conclusion of negotiations with the organised labour. The agreement on the new minimum wage and its consequential adjustments was signed by both representatives of government and leaders of the state chapter of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC). The government signatories include Abia State Head of Service, Sir Onyii Wamah, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Aham Uko, and the Chief of Staff to the governor, Dr. Anthony Agbazuere. On the part of labour, the Chairman, Public Service Joint Negotiating Council, Comrade Chris Okoro, NLC Chairman, Comrade Uchenna Obigwe, TUC Chairman, Comrade Sunny Onwuma, and the state President, Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE),

Comrade Nwaigwe Kennedy, appended their signatures. The terms of the agreement stipulated that the payment of the new minimum wage would take effect from January 2020. It was also stated in clear terms that the organised labour had accepted the table and consequential adjustments as agreed during the negotiations on the new minimum wage. Therefore both parties resolved that the agreement shall have binding force on Abia State Government and the organised labour in the state. Obigwe told THISDAY that the consequential adjustments were based on the circular on the national minimum wage, adding that workers got seven, 10 and 13 per cent adjustments depending on the cadres. He said it was expected that the circular on commencement of payment would be issued next week so that the new minimum wage would be reflected in the January salaries of workers.

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

Buhari Flags off Unity Torch Movement for 2020 National Sports Festival Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari has flagged off the movement of the Torch of Unity for the 20th National Sports Festival billed to hold in April this year in Benin, Edo State. Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Sunday Dare, hosted the ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Buhari said his administration was committed to fostering an enabling environment for sports at all levels in the country. He also lauded the Sports Minister for his doggedness that has kept the youths positively engaged in line with the mandate set by the administration. “The Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development is the biggest constituency for keeping the youth busy and the minister is doing a good job in that regard,� Buhari said. President Buhari presented Torch of Unity for the 20th National Sports Festival to the minister who in turn handed it over to the

Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Gabriel Aduda. Dare stressed the significance of the Torch of Unity to the National Sp orts Fes tival as a symbol of unity, peace, friend s hip , tolerance and hop e a mong Nigerians. He also thanked Buhari for attaching a lot of importance to youth and sports development in Nigeria. “I am particular joyous that this landmark event in our strategic plan for the Festival is being undertaken by Mr. President himself. This act is a testimony of the importance the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari attaches to youth and Sports development in the country,� he said. The minister also used the event to intimate President Buhari on the ministry’s ‘Adopt an Athlete’ campaign which received a nod from the president requesting all Nigerians of goodwill to take advantage of the project to be part of those uplifting the fortunes of sports once again in the country. Some of the dignitaries

Coronavirus: Ighalo, Others on Break as China’s Super League Postponed The start of the new Chinese Super League season has been postponed following the outbreak of the deadly coronavirus. Meaning the likes of former Super Eagles striker, Odion Jude Ighalo will have to wait a while until the spread of the virus is put to end. At least 170 lives have been lost to the virus. The Super League, which features ex-Premier League players including Yaya Toure, Marouane Fellaini, Oscar, Marko Arnautovic and Salomon Rondon, was due to run from 22 February to 31 October. A new starting date for the season has not yet been announced. Oher sporting events in China have also been affected by the crisis. The men’s alpine skiing World Cup races in China, scheduled for 15 and 16 February in Yanqing, have been cancelled. The 2020 World Athletics Indoor Championships, due to be held from 13-15 March in Nanjing, have been pushed back 12 months after World Athletics sought advice from the World Health Organisation. Formula 1 says it is “monitoring� the effects of the outbreak in China in the context of the country’s Grand Prix in Shanghai from 17-19 April. The all-electric Formula E series is also due to hold a race in Sanya, southern

China, on 21 March and Formula E says it is also “closely monitoring� the situation in tandem with local authorities. In a statement, the China Football Association said their move to postpone the “2020 season national football competitions at all levels� was taken to help with the “prevention and control of the pneumonia epidemic of the new coronavirus infection, and to protect the health of the majority of fans, media, players, coaches, game officials, clubs and district staff�. In Australia, China’s women’s football team has been forced into quarantine at a hotel in Brisbane, Queensland, after the state recorded its first case of coronavirus. A 44-year-old man from Wuhan - the Chinese city at the centre of the outbreak - is in isolation at the Gold Coast University Hospital, south of Brisbane. The China team had been due to open the Women’s Olympic football tournament qualifiers with a match against Thailand in Sydney on Monday. Ticket sales for the tournament have now been suspended. The death toll of the coronavirus has risen to 170 and with a confirmed case in Tibet, the virus has now spread to every region in mainland China.

at the event include; Edo State Governor, Godwin

Obaseki, the Secretary to the Government of the

Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha and Minister

of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouq.

President Muhammadu Buhari (right) handing over the Unity Touch to the Minister of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare in Abuja‌ yesterday GODWIN OMOIGUI

Dare Pays Glowing Tribute as Akinyele Goes Home Today As the body of the late former Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC) Chief Alex Akinyele is interned today, Minister of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare, has said that said beyond graveside oration, President Muhammadu Buhari is irrevocable committed to honouring sports men and women, coaches and administrators that have contributed to sports development in the country. Already, a powerful delegation from the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports is not only in Ondo to pay their last respect, the Minister is personally involved with the burial ceremony of the late Ondo High Chief. In a condolence message by the Special Adviser, Media to the Minister of Youth and Sports, John Joshua Akanji, Dare paid

glowing tribute to heroes and heroines that have brought glory and honour to Nigeria including the late Akinyele. The minister said henceforth recognition for such persons must go beyond mere rhetorical statements and empty promises. “We must learn to honour athletes, coaches and administrators that committed their lives to the service of the nation. Chief Akinyele was an epitome of service and patriotism. He exemplified what genuine service to the country meant. His personal charm was infectious and hard work quite motivational. He tried to use his position to impact on the society. He was simply a true Nigerian hero. “Sports remains our greatest unifying instrument, public relation tool and could be the

biggest source of revenue if properly harnessed,� observed the minister. He admitted that so many heroes have died unheralded and in penury. “We must celebrate our athletes and administrators while they are alive.� According to Dare, “Akinyele was a pace setter, astute administrator, accomplished technocrat, consummate business man who left his mark in the sands of time. The Minister affirmed that Akinyele led an exemplary life worthy of emulation. “He was a man who abhorred failure, set his goals and ensured that they were accomplished. He presided during great epochs in Nigerian sports like the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations victory, the Atlanta 1996 Olympics feat

amongst others. “He was meticulous and a stickler to details. He never believed in impossibilities.� Dare further described him as humane, humorous, urbane and honest in his views. “While some viewed him as too cosmopolitan, he was a grassroots man who was at home with his people, no wonder he held the title of Lisa of Ondo Kingdom,� recalled Dare. Before his foray into sports, the late Akinyele brought panache, glamour , professionalism and respect to Public Relations practice as the pioneer President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR). His contributions to public relations practice continues to evoke fond memories when he worked at the Nigerian Customs

Athletes Protest over N500 Allowance at 7th Kwara Sports Festival Hammed Shittu in Ilorin Hundreds of athletes at the ongoing 7th Kwara Sports Festival holding in Ilorin have protested against the N500 allowance being given to them by the organising committee of the festival. The festival is being organised by the government 15 years after the last edition. At least 1,234 athletes are currently participating at the competition in 26 games. The event is currently holding at the Stadium Complex located along Taiwo Road, Ilorin and would come to an end on Saturday. THISDAY checks revealed that the low attendance of athletes from the 16 local government councils of the state was because

on the pittance allowances approved for the participants at the event. One of the athletes complained against the poor allowance when the state governor, Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq paid an unscheduled visit to the stadium. “Your Excellency, the allowance of N500 being given to us is just too small. The money is not enough to do anything talk-less of taking care of our transportation needs sir,� the athlete revealed to the Governor who was equally taken aback by such sad news. This development, THISDAY learnt created commotion amongst the Organising Committee members and some explanations are expected from those concerned with arranging the welfare of the athletes. Speaking with sportswriters

after the visit the state governor, Alhaji Abdulrasaq said that, he approved the resuscitation of the state annual sports festival as part of his belief in productive engagement of the youths to attain their full potentials.. AbdulRazaq, said such event would also help to promote talents and sportsmanship in the populace. AbdulRazaq also said the administration plans to upgrade some facilities in the sports complex in the 2020 fiscal year, especially the indoor hall, to provide the right environment for local talents to thrive. He added, “There will be renovation of the sports complex, investments in youth and sports. You will see a face-lift of the Indoor Sports Hall of the state stadium, a new squash court

and renovation in all facets. “It is a pity that we’ve allowed (sports) infrastructure to decay. But despite that we can see the zeal, commitment of the sportsmen and women as well as the officials. You can see that they want to participate in sports. So, we need to provide the enabling environment to do what they need to do.� AbdulRazaq said Kwara looks forward to greater showings in the upcoming 20th National Sports Festival in Edo State, adding: “In fact, this is the good beginning. We are not going to hire athletes to represent the state. “The home-grown talents will represent us. So, we’ll have a 10-year plan. We are not saying that we will be at the top of the medals table in Edo but gradually we will be the best.�

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Transfer Deadline Day: Spending Exceeds ÂŁ1.5bn Transfer spending by Premier League clubs in January increased from last year after two big deals were confirmed on the penultimate day of the winter window. With just hours remaining, the total outlay by top-flight clubs stands at ÂŁ185.1m, an increase from the ÂŁ180m spent last year, but a long way off the ÂŁ430m record from 2018. Clubs across Europe, including in England and Scotland, cannot sign players after Friday, 31 January. For Premier League and English Football League clubs

the deadline is 23:00 GMT - with Scotland’s at midnight. Some reported transfers include Manchester United’s pursuit of a striker - with Dalian Yifang striker Salomon Rondon being considered - and Arsenal’s links with Atletico Madrid winger Thomas Lemar. United’s signing of Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon for £47m has been, by far, the biggest deal up until now. Spurs have made the loan signing of Real Betis midfielder Giovani lo Celso permanent for a fee of £27.2m and added forward Steven Bergwijn for

ÂŁ27m from PSV Eindhoven, after selling Christian Eriksen to Inter Milan for ÂŁ16.9m. As mentioned, the Blades signed Berge for a reported

ÂŁ22m, Wolves have spent a reported ÂŁ16.9m on Portuguese winger Daniel Podence from Olympiakos and Aston Villa spent ÂŁ10m on Genk

striker Mbwana Samatta. Elsewhere, Real Madrid spent ÂŁ26m on Flamengo youngster Reinier Jesus and

Borussia Dortmund bought Red Bull Salzburg wonderkid Erling Braut Haaland for ÂŁ17m.

Madrid Derby, Premier League Games Live on GOtv A fierce football rivalry will be rekindled on Saturday in La Liga when Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid clash in the Madrid Derby at Estadio Santiago Bernabau live on GOtv. The game, which will be the 166th encounter between both teams in La Liga, will be broadcast live on Saturday at 4pm on SuperSport Select 4 exclusive to GOtv Max subscribers. The two giants come faceto-face for the second time in the league this season after the 0-0 result in the reverse fixture at the Wanda Metropolitano. Real Madrid will want to consolidate their grip atop the league table after they leapfrogged their archrivals, Barcelona, courtesy of a 1-0 win against Real Valladolid. Los Blancos will miss its injured star winger, Eden Hazard, but manager Zinedine Zidane will be able to call on in-form goal-scorer, Karim Benzema, the midfield trio of Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Casemiro, and defender and captain Sergio Ramos to march the team to victory. Atletico, meanwhile, will want to use this fixture to avenge their loss to their city rivals in the final of the Spanish Super Cup held earlier this month. But Los Rojiblancos are having a difficult season, as they are struggling and are currently fifth on the log. However, manager Diego Simeone has a galaxy of stars he can call on to deliver the needed result against their rivals and invigorate their campaign,

including attackers Joao Felix and Alvaro Morata; midfielders Thomas Partey and Saul Niguez and defender Stefan Savic. Also on Saturday, Premier League leaders, Liverpool, will host Southampton at Anfield. The game kicks off at 4pm and will be live on SuperSport Select 2 Liverpool extended their 16-point lead atop the table after they overcame a difficult Wolverhampton Wanderers last week. The Reds look set to dethrone Manchester City as league champions and break their 30-year wait for a league title. Although the club may be without the injured Sadio Mane, manager Jurgen Klopp will be counting on attackers Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino, midfielder, defender Virgil Van Dijk and influential full-backs, Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold, to maintain their unbeaten run. They will, however, face a resurgent Southampton side, which has moved away from the brink of relegation and enjoyed a dramatic ascent to the top half of the table. The Saints have won three of their last five games and manager Ralph Hasenhttl will hope that his squad, which includes their leading goalscorer, Danny Ings; James Ward-Prowse and captain Pierre-Emile Hojberg, continue their winning run. Sunday game sees Arsenal will travel to the Turf Moor to face Burnley. The game is at 3pm and will be live on SuperSport Select 2

Kobe Bryant’s Widow ‘Completely Devastated’ Kobe Bryant’s widow, Vanessa, has made her first comments since the helicopter crash that killed the basketball star, one of their daughters and seven others last Sunday. In a post on Instagram with a family photo, she said she was “completely devastated� and that there were not “enough words to describe our pain�. The couple had four daughters including Gianna, 13, who died in the crash. There has been no word yet on funeral arrangements. The cause of the crash in foggy

weather west of Los Angeles is still being investigated. Bryant was on his way to coach his daughter’s basketball team in a local youth tournament at the Mamba Sports Academy. In her post, Vanessa also said: “We are completely devastated by the sudden loss of my adoring husband, Kobe - the amazing father of our children; and my beautiful, sweet Gianna - a loving, thoughtful, and wonderful daughter, and amazing sister to Natalia, Bianka, and Capri.�

Manchester United’s Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (left) and Bruno Fernandes at the unveiling of the former Sporting Lisbon player at Old Traord‌yesterday

Australian Open: Djokovic Beats Federer to Reach Final Muguruza to play American Sofia Kenin in Saturday’s final Novak Djokovic moved a step closer to retaining the Australian Open title with a straight-set semi-final win over injury-hit rival Roger Federer. Serbia’s Djokovic was 4-1 and 40-0 down in the opening set before recovering to win the tie-break. That laid the platform for the 32-year-old second seed to go on and win 7-6 (7-1) 6-4 6-3. Djokovic, aiming for a 17th Grand Slam title, will face Dominic Thiem or Alexander Zverev in Sunday’s final. “The match could have definitely gone a different way if he had used those break points [in the sixth game],� Djokovic said. “He started well - I was nervous.

“Respect to Roger for coming out tonight. He was obviously hurt and wasn’t close to his best in terms of movement.� Victory would mean a record-extending eighth Australian Open triumph for Djokovic, who has lost just three matches at Melbourne Park in the past 10 tournaments. It would also move him within three of 38-year-old’s Federer’s all-time record of 20 men’s Grand Slam singles titles and within two of Spain’s Rafael Nadal, who lost to Thiem in Wednesday’s quarter-final Djokovic was the heavy favourite to beat his long-time rival in what was their 50th meeting.

In the ladies single, Garbine Muguruza continued her recent revival by reaching the Australian Open final with a straight-set win over Romania’s Simona Halep. She will face American Sofia Kenin in Saturday’s final.

The unseeded Spaniard, 26, battled past the fourth seed in a tense 7-6 (10-8) 7-5 semi-final victory. The two-time Grand Slam champion fought off four set points in the opener and twice came back from a break down in the second.

Novak Djokovic also in ďŹ nal

Garbine Muguruza hits ďŹ nal in style

NPFL: Maikaba Reveals Reason behind Plateau Utd’s Consistency After his first season at Plateau United which saw the former champions struggle, Abdu Maikaba has enjoyed a brilliant start to the 2019/2020 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season placing second on the table after 17 games. The coach has attributed the team’s good run to an adequate preseason the team had. Maikaba explained to www. npfl.ng ahead of this weekend’s match against Rivers United, that last season poor outing which saw Plateau United narrowly avoiding relegation to the new resolve to prove a point this season. Maikaba spent most part of his first spell with the national junior team and only had

occasional time with his players. “Actually, our experience of last season helped in our preparation for this season. It was a lesson to us because we had to survive the relegation on the last day of the season. ‘That is why we started preparations for this season very early; we noticed our problems from last season. In terms of playing personnel, we tried to recruit the players we felt will help us be better and started preparations very early. We played lots of friendlies, tournaments and it helped a lot. That is why you see that we are consistent this season�, the former Akwa United Coach stated. In addition to Plateau

United, Rivers United and Lobi Stars have been the most consistent teams in the league this season and there has been a lot of talk from NPFL pundits that this season title will be fought between the three teams but Abdul Maikaba differs. According to Maikaba, it is too early to label a particular team or teams title contenders or favorites as there are still teams with outstanding matches. However, he praised the level of competitiveness of the NPFL this season and believes that it is only a matter of time before the league starts benefitting from it financially. “I do not believe that it is a three-way battle for the NPFL. In fact it is too early for us to tag a

team or teams favorite because we are not yet half way through the season and we still have teams like Rangers, Enyimba that have outstanding matches. ‘If they win all of their outstanding matches [which is totally possible] then they are back in contention to win the league. However, the fact that we are having a very competitive league is very good. If we continue in this way, it will only be a matter of time before we start benefitting financially.’ Maikaba told www. npfl.ng Plateau United are currently 2nd on the log, two points behind league leaders, Lobi Stars and level on points with Rivers United whom they face at home on Sunday.

Friday January 31, 2020

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Obaseki to Oshiomhole “All these nonsense they are doing- if anybody in the name of our party tries to do anything contrary to what we have agreed as a party we will deal with that person ruthlessly no matter who he is” – Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, vowing to deal with the National Chairman of the APC, Mr. Adams Oshiomhole, he continues to disrupt political activities in the state.

AKINOSUNTOKUN DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA

akin.osuntokun@thisdaylive.com

From Bomblast to Bomblast I

n a manner of speaking, I sympathise with the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina. He appears to be labouring under the burden of the distress of a double barell syndrome.The first layer of the syndrome is that the more untenable and unpopular the government they serve gets, the more the media managers and promoters are stressed and prone to lose composure, driven to extremes and lapse into incoherence in defence of the indefensible -lashing out left, right and centre in blind aggravation. Their sense of proportion and ability to discern and respect the boundary between truth and outright falsehood, becomes ever so blurry and steadily deteriorate until they become a menace to the cause and Principal they serve. Ironically and invariably, in the ultimate recognition of their downward spiral into dysfunction, they are shown the door. Shopworn is the saying that the medium is the message. In his present unmoored distemper, it is best imagined what kind of medium Adesina is increasingly and wilfully turning out to become. There is an American parallel to this.You remember Sean Spicer and Sarah Huckabee Sanders?. They are of the Donald Trump infamy?. To dispute the polls showing him as one of the most undesirable American President at the beginning of their tenure,Trump caused Spicer to go and tell the American audience to disregard the evidence of their eyes and declare that he pulled “the largest audience to ever witness an inauguration, period, both in person and around the globe”.To give you an idea of what becomes of those who go the way of Spicer, the only industry he could find rehabilitation after he was shown the way out, was comedy and at his first outing as a clown he was adjudged a disaster. It is an indication of the communication crisis the Trump presidency is enmeshed that he is into his third Press secretary three years in office. Trump and President Muhammadu Buhari are two of a kind, not least in their penchant for deliberately fostering and promoting wedge issues and divisiveness as tools of entrenching themselves in office. The idea is to groom their supporters into becoming mindless robots precluding them from any sense of objectivity and reason ;and encourage them to judge issues solely on the basis of we versus them, blind loyalty and fanatical support. In Nigeria today, this mentality has been overtly and covertly nurtured with crass discrimination and unprecedented nepotism in public policy thrusts, appointments and patronage.The poverty of this culture is the license it inherently gives for the exploitation of public office for corrupt enrichment and empowerment. Integral to the logic of overt and deliberate discriminatory practices in government policies and conduct is the imputation of individual appropriation of such preferments for personal gain

Buhari

and benefit. Why else would Mele Kyari from Maiduguri succeed Mohammed Baru from Bauchi as Group Managing Director of NNPC? In a situation in which President Buhari from Katsina State is the substantive Minister of Petroleum and his Chief of Staff from Maiduguri a Board member? With this pattern of placements and distribution of appointments in nearly all (what Nigerians call, in the idiom of corruption, ‘juicy and lucrative’), ministries and parastatals, MDAs -the conclusion to draw stares us all in the face. And so, whatever lip service is publicly paid to fighting corruption-should be understood as meant for the consumption of the gullible public-as everyone in the loop rightly second guesses. Just play it smart, if you can and if you can’t, be smart enough to make a preemptive move at the anti-corruption agencies and the courts. But we are in the age of globalisation from which Nigeria can run but cannot hide. And so while the President was busy gratifying himself as a model of integrity and avenging angel of corruption in the metropolitan capitals of Europe, the Transparency International was unveiling a contradictory annual report in which the truth of how deep Nigeria has sunk in corruption is laid bare for the world to see. The second layer of the syndrome is that it is in the nature of power politics that all presidential palace courts consist of insiders and outsiders. At the attainment of power, the immediate sociopolitical circle (of the President) comprising family, close friends, proteges, professional colleagues and political trouble shooters constitute the default inner caucus- with reasonable margin for cooptation, membership proscription and time out. As the going gets tough, those of the president’s personal staff who do not belong to the insider inner caucus begin to feel vulnerable and easily dispensable.

They see less and less of their principal and get less and less assignments and inevitably, the redundancy psychosis sets in. The first and most critical symptom of this pathology is the exhibition of the desperate need to overcompensate, to be catholic than the Pope, royalist than the king and caliphate than the Sultan.The unravelling is further revealed in the scurrilous sycophancy of elevating their principal to the status of a demigod and relentlessly advertise their willingness to advocate and defend the principal with, as the cliche goes ‘the last drop of his blood. This is the general manifestation but when you isolate the phenomenon to a specific instance, in this case the Buhari presidency, the malady is escalated in direct proportion to the tendency to reduce the office of the President to a personality cult.The more a president feels and acts insecure, the greater the latitude of the personality cult or cabal culture to fester and magnify. On top of his insular and parochial personality, the protracted and intermittent indisposition forced by the fragile health of the president doubly reinforces the personality cult syndrome. The phenomenon is critically characterised by paranoia and hostage politics. And the exercise of power and authority are arbitrarily wielded by individuals and officials with no formal appointment and those whose official positions do not correspond to the magnitude of control and influence at their disposal. The common vocabulary in vogue in the lingua franca of such an environment is called the ‘need to know basis’- which was the operative phrase during President Buhari’s prolonged medical emergency stay in London. The most prominent casualty of this phenomenon in contemporary Nigeria is, of course, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. Haven been cured of his earlier grand illusions of his true measure, he seems to have come to terms with the reality that there is a difference between what the constitution says and what the President and his powerful surrogates determine. How does a Vice President announce in the morning that there is no truth to the information concerning the retention of newly recruited staff in his office and he is contradicted by the office of the President in the afternoon?.This is the fraught and expansive sea of intrigue in which Mr. Adesina is floating without anchor and in which he is clearly out of depths. Hence, the increasing penchant for remorseless mendacity and impetuous eruptions into bile and blunder. What follows are a sample of his vituperations and give away symtoms of his occupational disorder: “Akin Oshuntokun appeared on Channels television today and made the false claim that a bomb blast had gone off earlier in the day, killing about 88 people in Maiduguri… Apparently, enemies of peace and progress had expected a return to the infamous past, thus Osuntokun appeared on television

with his bag of lies”- This was a press statement he issued on a programme I participated on Channels in which I spoke in English not Portuguese. Could I have suddenly developed cognitive deficiency? I double checked with Channels, they were equally flustered that such falsehood could emanate from Adesina within hours of the appearance in contention. When I called him, he was blissfully confident I made the attribution. I then realised someone was certainly suffering from cognitive disorder but that patient was not me. I gave him time to recheck the authenticity and called him back. Completely without remorse, he waved away the false weighty allegation he made and rebuffed- but you lied on the figures of the casualties in the non bomblast violence “Ancestral attachment? You can only have ancestral attachment when you are alive. If you are talking about ancestral attachment, if you are dead, how does the attachment matter?” This was the response Mr Adesina to the grief of the victims of the homicidal Fulani herdsmen terror in the Middle Belt region a while ago. “There was a time that there were five, six, 10 bombings in a day in this country. If you hear Nigerian media, if you hear social media particularly, even if you hear some international agencies, you will think that it is all over in the North-east. It is not. The people living there will tell you that the difference between now and 2015 is the difference between heaven and hell.” Below is a testimony to the “heaven” of Mr Adesina by the British House of Lords “More than 5,000 Christians have been killed since 2015, with 1,000 murdered in 2019. The Global Terrorism Index in 2016 and 2017 named Fulani militia as the fourth deadliest terrorist group in the world, with only Boko Haram, ISIS and al-Shabaab being accounted deadlier”. “We ignore him, reasoning that when a mind is diseased, there is hardly much you can do to point such soul to decency. It remains impervious to anything not from the very nether region of hell” .... Thick skulls and sick minds keep repeating falsehood even when their follies have been repeatedly pointed out” This was Adesina’s choice language on Shaka Momodu. Yet he proceeded in the same breath to pontificate “Foul language is often evidence of poor breeding”! “Those of us who believe in Buhari will follow him from Cape to Cairo, while those who don’t believe are welcome to their unbelief. Momodu is in the latter group. How do I know?” How does a writer who, right from the title of his write up and all through the body of the same write up, indicated Momodu as the embodiment of unbelief in Buhari-thereafter asks us ‘how do I know Momodu belongs to those who don’t believe in Buhari’? Can you see the conspicuous manifestation of our diagnosis of Mr Adesina?

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