FRIDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER 2019

PwC Report: FG Spent N2.3tn on Oil, Electricity Subsidies in Four Years Chineme Okafor in Abuja The federal government expended a total of N2.3 trillion on subsidising the consumption of petrol and electricity from 2015 to 2018, a report from global accounting and consulting

firm, PricewaterhouseCoppers (PwC), has revealed.

The report, which was obtained by THISDAY yesterday, was presented to power sector stakeholders at a roundtable organised by Mainstream Energy Solutionsoperators of the Kainji and

Jebba hydro power generation companies (Gencos), by the Chief Economist of PwC Nigeria, Dr. Andrew Nevin.

The report highlighted the challenges of Nigeria’s electricity sector and potential solutions to them.

It equally indicated that the

country spent N1.12 trillion as electricity subsidy and another N1.2 trillion on petrol.

It noted that both subsidy expenditures within the review period represented 17 per cent of Nigeria’s current foreign reserves and 26 per cent of 2019 federal budget.

It said: “The federal government has expended about N1.2 trillion as petroleum subsidy over the past four years (2015-2018).

The tariff shortfall in the electricity sector which technically is the electricity subsidy payable by the federal

government stood at N1.12 trillion between 2015 and 2018.

“Both subsidies amount to N2.3 trillion, which represents about 17 per cent of current foreign reserves and 26 per cent of the 2019 budget.”

Continued on page 9

Despite Bearish Trading, Firms Raise N90bn from Stock Market in Nine Months... Page 8 Friday 27 September, 2019 Vol 24. No 8936. Price: N250

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Citing Misconduct, Magu Calls for London Judge’s Probe Says jurist desperate to enforce P&ID’s arbitral award Obinna Chima The federal government has called for a probe of Justice Christopher Butcher of the London Commercial Court

hearing the dispute between Nigeria and an Irish-owned firm registered in British Virgin Island, Process and Industrial Developments (P&ID), over a failed gas project that

went into arbitration with $9.6 billion claim against the country.

Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC),

Mr. Ibrahim Magu, who is part of the Nigerian delegation to the court session yesterday, told ARISE NEWS, a sister broadcast arm of THISDAY Newspapers, in an interview

in London that the court was so desperate to enforce the arbitral award.

Two other members of the delegation, Minister of Information and Culture,

Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, who also spoke with Continued on page 8

Nigeria to Shift Battle over $9.6bn Judgment Debt to UK Appeal Court Obtains order staying enforcement of P&ID arbitral award Gets 60 days to pay $200m deposit to court Ejiofor Alike with agency reports The battle between Nigeria and Process and Industrial Developments (P&ID) over the bid to stop the company from attaching the country’s assets to recoup the $9.6 billion arbitral claim it secured last month, is set to shift to the United Kingdom Appeal Court.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), yesterday signified the intention of the federal government to head to the UK Appeal Court shortly

after the UK Commercial Court ordered a stay of execution of the $9.6 billion claim, arising from a failed gas deal between the two parties which led to arbitration.

Mr. Justice Butcher had last month affirmed the arbitral claim but fixed yesterday for hearing of an application by P&ID seeking the leave of the court to attach some assets of Nigeria for seizure to recoup the $9.6 billion arbitral claim.

It was, however, learnt that the claim would have hit a double-digit mark as interest on the original Continued on page 8

MEETING TO UPLIFT NIGERIA...

L-R: President, Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chairman Gates Foundation, Mr. Bill Gates and President Muhammadu Buhari during a meeting with Buhari on the sideline of the United Nations General Assembly session, New York... on Wedneday state house

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Despite Bearish Trading, Firms Raise N90bn from Stock Market in Nine Months

Goddy Egene

The Nigerian equities market has remained a source of funding for quoted companies despite its bearish trend since the beginning of the year, THISDAY’s investigation has revealed.

THISDAY gathered that companies have so far raised over N90 billion from the market through rights issue, while others are preparing to source for over N10 billion fresh capital.

Weak demand for stocks has made the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index (ASI), which is the major gauge for the market, to lose 13 per cent as at Tuesday.

However, while the secondary market is

witnessing negative sentiments, the primary market, where companies raise fresh funds, has provided over N90 billion to firms.

Lafarge Africa Plc accounted for the highest amount of N89.2 billion, which was raised early this year.

Fidson Healthcare Plc sourced N3 billion, while Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc raised N2.085 billion from the market.

WAPIC Insurance Plc will soon raise N5.577 billion just as C & I Leasing Plc and Redstar Express Plc are to raise N3.234 billion and N1.326 billion respectively.

More companies, especially insurance firms that are

raising funds to comply with the new capital requirement stipulated by National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), are expected in the market.

Commenting on the successful raising of funds through right issue from existing shareholders, market operators said it was the best option for now since the initial public offering (IPO) market, where companies sell shares to new investors to raise money, has remained dormant.

They added that rights issues are still thriving because the shares are issued to existing shareholders, who might not want to lose their stakes to other investors.

The Chief Executive Officer,

Network Capital Limited, a dealing member firm of the NSE, Mr. Oluropo Dada, told THISDAY that a bear run might not adversely affect the success of a rights issue because shares are issued to the existing shareholders based on the existing shareholding ratio, who had over the years, appreciated the long term stability and viability of the issuer. “An issuer of rights share concentrates its marketing efforts on the majority shareholders/ strategic investors, who will probably take up their shares to maintain status quo in addition to their profitability objective. Shares are, at times, held for political reasons and failure to take up your

rights means the issuer can offer it to other shareholders, especially where the rights are tradable. Finally, rights issue is a benefit to the shareholders because the shares, in most cases, are issued at a discount, that is, at a price below the market price,� Dada said.

Also speaking on factors driving the boom for right issues, the Managing Director/CEO, High Cap Securities Limited, David Adonri, said with the economy recovering, confidence is being restored in the capital market.

He noted that issuers’ confidence is equally increasing, hence an uptick in the primary market despite the bear run in the secondary market.

Another stockbroker and Managing Director/Chief Executive, APT Securities and Funds Limited, Mr. Kasimu Kurfi, identified the influence of foreign core investors in some multinational companies as one of the factors boosting rights issues.

He said companies such as Guinness Nigeria Plc and Unilever Nigeria Plc, which raised funds year before last, had core investors who took up their rights, adding that that trend is still on.

According to him, this confidence of core investors in the Nigerian economy is reflected in the rights issue of Lafarge Africa Plc because the core investor took up their rights, hence the success of that offer.

arbitration award held by P&ID to a legal judgment, which would allow the British Virgin Islands-based firm to try to seize Nigeria’s international assets.

A Nigerian delegation, whose membership included Malami, the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu and the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, had on Saturday arrived in the United Kingdom to prepare for yesterday’s proceedings in court.

Besides the legal battle, Nigeria has also launched a bid to bring to justice all those connected with the Gas Supply and Processing Agreement (GSPA), under which Nigeria is to supply wet gas to a plant to be built in Cross River State

by P&ID for processing to generate electricity, between the two parties.

President Muhammed Buhari had in his speech at the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday in New York, described the $9.6 billion arbitral claim as fraudulent.

Already, Nigeria is making moves for the extradition of

the co-founder of the Irish firm, Mr. Brendan Cahill and son of the deceased founder, Mr. Adam Quinn, over their roles in the $9.6 billion arbitral award.

Nigeria is seeking the help of Irish law enforcement and the U.K.’s National Crime Agency, for the extradition of Cahill and Quinn to face trial in the country.

Besides, Nigeria is also seeking a probe of Allied Irish Banks, with a claim that it has evidence of two bank transfers by P&ID, amounting to $20,000, to a former Director, Legal Services of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Grace Taiga.

Taiga is currently on trial for allegedly conniving with the company in a bid to defraud the country.

allegation against it as a red herring.

The company said Nigeria knew that there was no fraud and the allegations were merely political theatre designed to deflect attention from government’s own shortcomings.

"The court has ruled that the Nigerian Government must put up $200 million to maintain a stay of execution whilst it pursues an appeal against enforcement of the now $9.6 billion award in favour of P&ID. “The Nigerian Government will now have to put its money where its mouth is if it wants to avoid immediate seizure of assets.

"The Nigerian Government's recent media exercise to allege fraud against P&ID turned out to be a red herring. Indeed, the Nigerian Government did not present any evidence to support Malami's "findings" from his sham investigation.

The Nigerian Government knows there was no fraud and the allegations are merely political theater designed to deflect attention from its own shortcomings,� P&ID said in a statement.

all those involved in it were being investigated. “Already, we have been able to establish fraudulent practices, including money transfer between P&ID and some key officials of the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources,� he stated.

Asked if Nigeria is opened to an out-of-court settlement, he said the federal government had not foreclosed any option in resolving the issue. “Nigeria is doing everything to ensure that all our assets are safe from any embarrassment. I think P&ID is actually panicking because we are actually getting to unravel the sham called P&ID. Don’t forget that even before now, the company had been involved in other sham arbitration awards, some of which had been set aside. I think this is the only government that has the courage to call off the bluff of P&ID and we are not going to stop until

we unravel this sham called P&ID,� the minister added.

Also speaking, Emefiele said it was unfortunate, that such an incident happened. “I think the lesson is that for us, it is an eye-opener and I am very happy at the way the government and the president are taking this. “This really concerns all of us and that is why this time all hands are on the deck to ensure that we destroy the foundation of this fraudulent transaction, to ensure that in the future, it doesn’t happen again. “That was why the attorney general is here; the Minister of Information and Culture is here; the Inspector General of Police is here, the Chairman of the EFCC is here, and I also here. “We consulted and met different key persons as to the best option to adopt, not just the arbitral award, but in terms of other strategies to deal with this matter,� he added.

NIGERIA TO SHIFT BATTLE OVER $9.6BN JUDGMENT DEBT TO UK APPEAL COURT $6.5 billion the arbitration panel granted P&ID, which ballooned to $9.6 billion in August when the UK court affirmed the arbitral award, is being calculated at the rate of $1.2 million daily, minus weekends.

In its ruling yesterday, the court, which, however, upheld the claim and refused Nigeria’s plea to set it aside, said the suspension of its decision to grant P&ID’s request to seize Nigerian assets would last till the determination of the appeal by the federal government.

It, however, asked the government to make a security payment of $200million to the court within 60 days.

But Malami said besides seeking to quash the company’s bid to make any claim, Nigeria would also consider the possibility of challenging the legality of the $200 million security deposit within the 60-day window.

P&ID secured the damages against Nigeria following a failed Gas Supply Project Agreement (GSPA) contract between it and the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

Malami, in a brief from London sent to reporters in Abuja, said: “Leave to appeal has been granted. Stay of execution is also granted subject to payment of $200m security payment to court pending the determination of the appeal the leave for which has been granted by the commercial court. “The steps we will consider are to study the ruling and act in a way beneficial to the interest of the nation. “We will study the court rulings, exercise the right of appeal and consider the legal options available at our disposal as it relates to the payment of $200m in view of the 60 days window stipulated by the court.�

Malami, who admitted that he was pleased with the judgment, said: “I see this as a positive resolution that constitutes an important step in the government‘s efforts to defend itself in a fair and just process. “We look forward to challenging the UK Commercial Court’s recognition of the tribunal’s decision in the UK Court of Appeals, uncovering P&lD’s outrageous approach for

what it is: a sham based on fraudulent and criminal activity developed to profit from a developing country.�

Reuters reported that Nigeria’s appeal of the decision, called a “set-aside�, would need to prove there was an error in the ruling.

During yesterday’s proceedings, lawyers representing Nigeria said the judgment was flawed primarily due to its acceptance that England was the proper seat of the arbitration.

Harry Mantovu (QC) argued on behalf of Nigeria that the courts, not the arbitration tribunal, should determine this, and that the August ruling ignored Nigeria’s successful application to have the award set aside by the Federal High Court in Lagos.

The judge’s order said if Nigeria does not put the $200 million into a court account within 60 days - the minimum amount of time that Mantovu said it would take Nigeria to raise the funds from capital markets or internal sources - the stay on seizures would be lifted.

The original decision on August 16 converted an

P&ID Welcomes Court Ruling Meanwhile, the P&ID has said it welcomed the decision of the court ordering Nigeria to pay $200 million to proceed on its appeal.

It also faulted what it described as the Nigeria’s recent media onslaught against it, describe the fraud

CITING MISCONDUCT, MAGU CALLS FOR LONDON JUDGE’S PROBE ARISE NEWS, reiterated the federal government’s allegation that the Gas Supply and Processing Agreement (GSPA) between P&ID and the Ministry of Petroleum Resource was aimed at defrauding Nigeria.

Magu, who expressed loss of confidence in the British commercial court, said Nigeria would take the matter up at the diplomatic level.

He said: “The entire transaction is predicated on fraud; complete fraud and irregularities by people trying to exploit the weakness in the system to their advantage.

I am also worried that the commercial court that gave the judgment here on the award is so desperate on the enforcement of the judgment itself. That shows clearly that we do not have confidence in the commercial court because they seem to have interest in making sure they enforce it; otherwise they should give us a chance for us to come in with our complaint.

“P&ID does not even exist in Nigeria. It is a shell company and as far as I am concerned, the directors we have committed so far are the witnesses to the agreement and also to the MoU. The main actors who actually signed the MoU and the agreement incidentally are all dead, that is (Michael) Quinn and Lukman (former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources). There is something sneakier to the whole deal. “We would have to approach at government or diplomatic level. We will also appeal to the appropriate authorities to also investigate the conduct of the judges that actually passed the award because this is the worst in the world. There has never been an arbitration award at this level that is so high; nowhere in the world. It has not happened. $9.6 billion?

Do you know how it can aggravate the refugee situation in Nigeria? Do you know how it would affect our GDP? Do

you know it would affect the economy? “That is almost about one-third of our budgetary allocation. We’re over 200 million Nigerians. We will not take it.�

On the lessons Nigeria has learnt from the P&ID case, Magu said: “That’s why we are here to deal with the situation on ground. After dealing with the situation on ground, we would address other things. There are some other agreements – about six like that that we need to look into that were against Nigeria, from same judges. The same judges have given another judgment of income against Nigeria. And the same expert opinion was being run. You can see the conspiracy.�

On his part, Mohammed said GSPA, under which Nigeria was to supply wet gas to a plant P&ID was to build in Cross River State for the generation of electricity, was enmeshed in corruption and irregularities, adding that

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NEWS

Ngige: FG Can’t Meet Labour’s Demand on Minimum Wage Says govt to reconstitute negotiation team on consequential adjustment Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The federal government yesterday declared that it would not be able to meet the demand of organised labour on the percentage for consequential adjustment of the N30,000 new minimum wage due to dwindling revenue.

The government said it would appoint a new team to represent it in the committee negotiating the consequential adjustment.

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, who conveyed government's position during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), said the federal government felt there was a need to tell the truth on the poor state of the economy.

According to him, the federal government has decided to reconstitute the team representing it in the committee negotiating the consequential adjustment.

The minister said: "Government is not averse to the consequential adjustment; what we are saying is that we should try for all parties to agree; that the economy is in the doldrums; that the economy has some troubles, and therefore, we have to cut our coat according to our cloth. That is the most important thing."

While explaining the delay in concluding the committee’s assignment, Ngige said the government's team was depleted due to the fact that he and the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning had to withdraw from the committee at the end of the last administration.

"The committee was inaugurated in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), late April.

But when the committee started work, I was a member; the finance minister was a member; budget and planning minister was a member, but our council died on 29th May, with the expiration of time. We were dissolved, the budget and planning minister didn't come back; the permanent secretary took my place and started the negotiations.

"I do not want to say that they didn't make progress; they made progress because at least, from levels one to six, they got something, and from the time we were coming back, we saw that they were making progress.

Unfortunately, the head of service, the chair of that committee had to go on compulsory leave and it is not easy when some other person is going to act and move in," he said.

Negotiations on the implementation of the new

minimum wage had ended in a deadlock following the failure of the government team and the leadership of the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC) to agree on the percentage of adjustment that will apply in the computation of the new wage for grade levels 7-17.

While the federal government had shifted ground from its earlier position of 9.5 per cent to 11 per cent for grade levels seven to 14 and 6.5 per cent from 5.5 per cent for levels 15 to 17, representatives of labour however, insisted that the government should adjust the salaries of workers on grade levels 07 to 14 by 30 per cent and those on levels 15 to 17 by 25 per cent.

The organised labour, however, stepped down to 29 per cent from 30 per cent for grade levels 7 to 14 and 24 to 25 per cent for levels 15 to 17.

Ngige, who responded to the concern expressed by the President of the NLC, Ayuba Wabba, over the delay in reaching a deal with the unions, said the present economic situation had made it difficult to accept the demand of the labour.

However, Ngige, who was flanked by the Minister of State for Labour, Festus Keyamo, assured the

Ngige workers that negotiations would be swift as soon as the new government team is formed.

He added that the ministry will not allow arrears to pile up to the extent that such would constitute a burden for the federal and state governments to pay.

On the request by the

NLC president that the ministry should move to establish the National Labour Advisory Council, Ngige said government would hold a convention to inaugurate the council later in the year as soon as funds were made available.

He also expressed government’s concern over the rising unemployment

in the country, describing it as highly worrisome.

He said the organised labour should not limit itself to just advocating for workers’ rights but should liaise with the government and the private sector to create jobs.

Earlier, Wabba listed some issues labour would want the minister to address.

Cashless Policy will Deepen Financial Inclusion, CBN Insists James Emejo in Abuja The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday reassured Nigerians that the resumed implementation of the cashless policy of the bank is aimed at encouraging and deepening financial inclusion through the use of alternative channels in line with global best practice.

Speaking at the CBN special day at the ongoing 2019 Abuja International Trade Fair, CBN Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mr. Isaac Okoroafor, said contrary to insinuations, the policy was

not designed to impoverish Nigerians.

According to him, the apex bank under the leadership of Mr. Godwin Emefiele, would continue to deliver on its mandate of ensuring monetary and price stability as well as developmental interventions in SMEs financing for sustainable economic growth and development.

He said the theme of the trade fair, "Remodeling SMEs Financial: Options and Solutions", captured the focus and deliberate efforts by the bank towards stimulating economic

growth through backward integration and expansion of small enterprises, which he described as engine of growth, particularly in emerging economies.

Okoroafor said the apex bank currently has 29 intervention programmes targeted at various stakeholder groups including farmers, women, youth and SMEs, agriculture, health, power, aviation and creative industry to kick start economic growth and development.

He added that a total of 255 private and 14 state

government anchors had participated in the Anchor Borrowers' Programme (ABP) of the CBN as at June 2019, adding that the scheme has benefited 1,140,854 million farmers in 17 different agricultural commodities.

The CBN director said a total of 1,132,260 million jobs had also been created along the various agricultural value chains under the Commercial Agricultural Credit Scheme (CACS).

Meanwhile, President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and

Industry (ACCI), Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, has commended the genuine efforts of CBN to the regulation, preservation and stabilisation of the integrity of the naira.

"In the area of development finance, he has ensured the supply of finance to various sectors of the economy which has stimulated its growth.

"Similarly, the Nigerian payment system has witnessed remarkable achievements in the recent past, with the introduction of a number of initiatives under the payments system

vision," he stated.

Kayode, represented by ACCI Director General, Mrs. Tonia Shoyele, added that "The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the bank, which has the responsibility of formulating monetary and credit policy, has also done remarkably well in either adjusting or retaining key indicators.

"We also appreciate the swift response by the CBN which have succeeded in ridding our economy of sharp practices by some financial institutions or houses."

segment of the industry,� it said, adding that it is believed that metering customers will reduce the liquidity challenges of the country. “But meter delivery progress has been slow so far. Abuja, Benin and Port-Harcourt are the Discos that currently have more than half of their customers metered. Yola Disco recorded the slowest metering progress (21 per cent) of all Discos as at Q1’ 2019. “Progress in metering customers will help to

reduce ATC&C (Aggregate Technical Commercial and Collection) losses and billing collection inefficiencies in the sector,� it said.

Indicating that the tariff shortfall in 2018 by the 11 Discos amounted to N384 billion, the PwC report also stated that the average aggregate technical, commercial and collection loss in 2018 was 52.7 per cent.

This, the report pointed out, meant that more than half of the energy received

by Discos was wasted.

PWC REPORT: FG SPENT N2.3TN ON OIL, ELECTRICITY SUBSIDIES IN FOUR YEARS The PwC report stated that the total electricity subsidy for the four years could cover the current budget of the ministries of health and education.

It added that electricity distribution companies (Discos) have steadily reported losses since they took over the distribution assets from the government at the conclusion of the power sector privatisation in 2013. “In addition, there has been a steady growth in the amount of loss reported. In

2017, the total loss reported

by Discos stood at N417 billion. “Liquidity crunch is the biggest challenge of the Nigerian electricity sector today. The 11 Discos have been struggling to meet their obligations to the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET) and Market Operators (MO) as evidenced in their low remittances to NBET and MO,� the report stated.

According to it, in the first quarter (Q1) of 2019, only about 28 per cent of

the N190 billion invoice comprising invoice of N161.4 billion for energy purchased from the NBET and an invoice of N28.8 billion for administrative services from MO, were remitted by the Discos. “In one year (Q1’2018 – Q1’2019), Discos’ outstanding remittance to NBET and MO stood at about N523.8 billion and N80.3 billion respectively. “Consequently, NBET have in turn been unable to meet their obligation to the generation companies

(Gencos) thus creating a liquidity challenge that has plagued the electricity industry since the privatisation exercise in 2013,� it added.

The report noted that the proportion of remittances relative to market invoice were low across all the Discos, indicating that none of the Discos could attain 50 per cent of the total bill they owed for electricity supplied to them. “This situation creates liquidity challenges to the generation and transmission

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NEWS

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

APC Govs: No Crack in Presidency Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Progressives Governors Forum (PGF), which encompasses all the governors elected under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared that there is no crack in the Presidency.

President Muhammadu Buhari had recently directed Vice President Yemi Osinbajo to, henceforth, seek presidential approvals for agencies under his supervision.

Also, the president recently appointed an Economic Advisory Council (EAC) and disbanded the Economic Management Team chaired by Osinbajo.

Those moves by Buhari

had been subjected to sundry interpretations, and were perceived as an attempt to whittle down the power of the vice president.

On his part, the vice president, who had faced series of allegations in the media over the handling of affairs of some of the agencies under his supervision, had said in a tweet on Wednesday afternoon that he was ready to waive his immunity to clear his name.

He also said he had directed his lawyers to commence legal action against former deputy publicity secretary of the APC, Timi Frank, and one Katch Ononuju for making unsubstantiated allegations against him.

But the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-olu, who is the Co-Chair of the PGF Media and Communications Programme Steering Committee, yesterday insisted that there was no crack in the presidency, adding that any claim to the contrary exists only in the realm of gossips and rumours.

He declared that both the president and the vice president are still working together harmoniously.

Sanwo-Olu, who was

represented by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, spoke during the inauguration of the PGF Media and Communications Programme Steering Committee held at the PGF secretariat in Abuja.

He stated: “I think it exists in the realm of gossips and rumours. So, there is no crack. At the time, the Vice President went to Zimbabwe to represent this country. It was the prerogative of Mr. President to go but he nominated him.

“Yesterday (Wednesday), the vice president presided over the

Federal Executive Council (FEC) which is the highest body that determines what goes on in our country.

“We don’t listen to rumours, will deal with facts. The fact is that they are working together, it is just rumours, don’t take it that serious,” Sanwo-Olu added.

He explained that the PGF would work with the committee to take closer look at issues of strengthening the capacity of APC states to implement approved initiatives.

Sanwo-Olu noted that where evaluation of capacity highlight gaps in the ability of APC state officials to facilitate implementation especially on the issue of media and public engagement, the committee would help develop capacity development proposals as integral components of its recommendations.

He said that the committee would also help in sensitising and informing Nigerians about the programme and policies of government.

Ortom Fumes as Communities, Police Exhume 11 Corpses from Shallow Graves George Okoh in Makurdi More than 11 corpses were yesterday exhumed at a kidnappers‘ den in Gbatse, Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State.

Out of the number, six were identified by the relatives of the victims while five were yet to be identified even as it was suspected that many corpses were still in shallow graves.

The ring leader of the kidnap syndicate identified as Iorwuese Kpila has been arrested by the police.

According to the Police authority, the hideout of Kpila is located at a hill top surrounded by some thatch houses and a shrine It was learnt that few days ago, the district head of Mbagwaza, Chief Julius Kpenkpen called his Mbayegh counterpart Chief Nathaniel Hoyo and informed him that two commercial motorcyclists in his jurisdiction were missing.

The district head of Mbayegh was said to have summoned a meeting of leaders of the two communities and demanded that the family of Kpila should produce him.

Eventually, the suspect showed up on Monday, September 21,

2019 in the house of Hoyo who handed him and other four accomplices over to the Police for investigation as they confessed to the killing and burial of numerous victims.

Speaking with journalists in Ushongo at the site of the incident, Governor Samuel Ortom decried the horror, describing it as the height of criminality, which will have no place in the State.

“Seven have been arrested so far. Four are still at a large.

We will get to the root of kidnapping in the state. They will be fished out to face the law. All kidnappers in flash point local government areas including, Vandeikya, Logo, Ukum, Kwande and Katsina-Ala will be apprehended.

“It is time up for criminality to thrive in the state. Imagine that some persons have been missing for more than three years and in some instances, ransom was paid by their relatives yet they were murdered by these persons whose motives is to make quick money.

Not even the best lawyer in the country can save them now. I urge Benue indigenes to give information to security agencies to eliminate this,” Ortom appealed

Court Threatens DSS DG over Sowore Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a warning that it would order the imprisonment of the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Yusuf Bichi over the failure of the agency to release the detained publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore.

The court’s warning was also based on an application by Sowore’s lawyers led by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr. Femi Falana.

A copy of the court order dated September 26 said the DSS must release Sowore as directed by the court or it would be guilty of contempt and liable to be committed to prison.

“Take notice that unless you obey the order of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division delivered on September 24 which ordered you to release the applicant, you will be guilty of contempt of court and will be liable to be committed

to prison,” the document read.

The DSS yesterday said it was yet to effect the release of Sowore, due to the failure of Falana , to “follow laid down procedure”.

It also denied that it disobeyed a court order by holding on to the publisher of the online medium, Sahara Reporters.

Speaking in Abuja, Spokesman of the DSS, Peter Afunanya, said Sowore’s lawyer had not fulfilled certain conditions expected of him before Sowore would be set free.

“His lawyer is an experienced and knows the procedure but he has not done that. He knows what to do but he does not seem to be doing that’, he said.

“DSS has not disobeyed any court order. There is no basis to say we are disobeying a court order. There is no basis for that.

We don’t do that. Falana, as experienced as he is, knows what do in the circumstance; he knows what to do.”

ALL EYES ON HIGHER RETURNS…

L-R: Managing Director, Honeywell Flour Mills Plc, Mr. Lanre Jayeola; Chairman, Dr. Oba Otudeko; and Company Secretary, Oluwayemisi Busari, at the 10th Annual General Meeting of Honeywell Flour Mills Plc in Lagos...yesterday ETOP UKUTT

Buhari: Nigeria Lost $157.7bn to Illicit Financial Flows Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday in New York disclosed that Nigeria lost an estimated $157.5 billion to illicit financial flows between 2003 and 2012.

According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, the president quoted the 2014 Global Financial Integrity Report in his address to the high-level national side-event organised by the African Union Development Agency and New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Adesina said the event took place on the margins of the 74th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) with the

theme, “Promotion of International Cooperation to Combat Illicit Financial Flows and Strengthen Good Practices on Assets Recovery and Return to Foster Sustainable Development.”

He said the president noted that such massive loss of assets, resulted in dearth of resources “to fund public services or to alleviate poverty,” in the country.

According to him, Buhari acknowledged lack of sufficient capital and corruption as impediments to socio-economic development of the continent and restated his administration’s anticorruption campaign: He quoted him as saying, “That is why our government has made it a war we intend to win. We will give all it takes to ensure there is no hiding place for purveyors of corrupt practices who are truly

enemies of the people.”

Adesina also said the president stressed the need to strengthen good practices on asset recovery and return, saying, “In the last five years, our government has made significant progress to curb corruption,” adding: “We have recovered millions of dollars stolen from our country.”

He added that Buhari said “there are still a lot of other funds that are stuck in foreign bank accounts due to international laws, different jurisdictions and justice systems that make it difficult for repatriation.”

The statement also said Buhari described illicit financial flows as “illegal movement of funds from one country to another,” lamenting that, “these flows deplete Africa’s internally generated revenues, foreign

exchange earnings, reduce tax revenues, drain natural resources, facilitate corruption and stunt private sector development.”

It also said Buhari cited tax avoidance as another form of illicit financial flow, quoting the Tax Justice Network and the International Monetary Fund report as stating that estimated over $200 billion per year is “being lost by developing countries when multinational enterprises do not pay taxes in the countries where they made the profit.

“This amount is significantly higher than the annual development aid received by these countries which are estimated to be about $143 billion.”

The meeting, according to the statement, was attended by the Presidents of Zambia and Ethiopia.

NAF Jet Bombs ISWAP Logistics Base,Training Camp Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja A fighter jet of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) yesterday hit the logistics base and training camp of the Islamic State for West African Province (ISWAP) in Kusuma on the fringes of Lake Chad in Borno State, killing many insurgents.

The bombing followed intelligence reports that the insurgents had set up a training camp, while some buildings within the camp were used to store arms, fuel, ammunition as

well as logistics supplies.

An update issued by NAF Spokesmen, Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, said the air strikes killed many of the insurgents.

“The Air Task Force (ATF) of Operation Lafiya Dole has recorded another major success in its sustained air offensive against terrorists’ targets in the Northeastern part of the Country. The feat was achieved yesterday when Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft, detailed by the ATF, destroyed a major

Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) Logistics Base and Training Camp at Kusuma on the fringes of Lake Chad in Borno State.

“The air strike was executed after credible intelligence reports had established that a section of the settlement was serving as a training camp for the terrorists, while some buildings within the camp were being used to store their fuel, arms and ammunition as well as other logistics supplies. The pre-attack surveillance showed scores of

fighters attempting to flee the location upon hearing the sound of the attack aircraft”, he said.

He said the terrorists “were engaged by the attack aircraft in successive passes, neutralising many of them. The terrorists’ logistics supply store, which was also hit, was seen engulfed in flames due to the raid.

“The NAF, operating in concert with surface forces, will sustain its efforts to completely destroy all remnants of the terrorists in the North-east”

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

11

NEWS

Senate Seeks Merger of FG Agencies Expresses concern over non-assent to anti-corruption bills Deji Elumoye in Abuja The Senate yesterday vowed to ensure the merger of some of the over 700 federal agencies in the country believed to be draining the nation’s scarce resources.

The upper legislative chamber argued that most of the agencies and parastatals were not productive, but only depended on budget allocations from federal government to survive.

The Senate also yesterday referred the 2020-2022 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper

(FSP) to the committees on Finance and National Planning.

It mandated the committes to submit their report on Wednesday, October 2, at the plenary.

The Senate also threatened that it would either merge or eliminate these identified agencies, as some of the agencies are not adding value to the nation’s economy.

The lawmakers took this position at plenary when it considered the report of the Senator Adamu Aliero-led Ad-hoc Committee on the Ninth Senate Legislative Agenda.

Gates: Nigeria is My Greatest Commitment Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja The World’s second richest man, Bill Gates, yesterday in New York, described Nigeria as the greatest commitment of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Gates made this comment while meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari along with Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, at the sidelines of the 74th United Nations General Assembly in New York.

A statement by the president’s spokesman, Mr. Femi Adesina, said Gates told Buhari that it is only in India that the Foundation makes greater investment than Nigeria.

The statement also said Gates observed that investment in health and education in Nigeria had improved more than the situation in 2000.

“Every local government area has better health/education situation today than in year 2000. We are delighted about that.

Nigeria is our biggest commitment in Africa. It’s only in India that we do more in the world,” Gates was quoted as saying.

Adesina said Gates also spoke on polio eradication, observing that Nigeria reached a zero-wild polio virus free milestone for three years in August.

However, he added that Gates noted that the next six months would be critical because it would ascertain if Nigeria would finally be declared polio free or not.

Adesina also said Gates congratulated Buhari “for assembling a cabinet that excites us,” saying he was pleased that one of the priorities of the administration was human capital development with health, nutrition and education as key components.

He said Buhari applauded the contributions of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation as well as Aliko Dangote Foundation to humanitarian and developmental activities in Nigeria.

According to him, the president said the two men had touched humanity in many positive ways, praising them “for achieving what you had set out to do.”

He quoted Buhari as saying, “Thanks for deriving pleasure in helping people. Congratulations to you for returning part of your wealth to the people in diverse ways.

“Whatever we save in areas in which you have intervened, we can deploy to other areas like building of infrastructure.”

The statement further said the president noted that Bill and Melinda Gates and Aliko Dangote Foundations had kept track of Nigeria’s attainments on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as enunciated by the United Nations, submitting that they were encouraged that there was improvement in the reduction of child mortality.

Furthermore, the statement said Dangote appreciated the Nigerian military for helping with vaccination in the theatres of war while fighting insurgency, thus adding to the advances in the country’s polio status On agriculture, in which he said Dangote had made huge investments, Adesina said the president noted that farmers were very happy in Nigeria now, “as we have made fertiliser available, cut the price by half, and given many other incentives. They have no regret going back to the lands. The more we invest in agriculture, the better for us.”

Forty five out of the 109 Senators, who took turns to contribute to the report over a five-hour period, expressed their views.

The Senate President, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, while summing up the debate said, “we must face reality of making the economy work for the people.

“The number of federal agencies in this country is too many, more than 700 of them.

Either we merge or eliminate some of them, because some of them don’t add value to the nation, they depend on the budget to survive.

“We will also do something about the electoral reform, it is supposed to be a continuous

thing. We have to do something because of what we witnessed in the last election.

“We should start on time before the next election latest by 2021 so that it will not be problematic.”

Lawan, while also commenting on consumer reform, said it is not ideal to pay for goods especially car and house at once as such action encourages corruption.

“I think it will be better that when you are buying a car or a house, you should not pay at once, because it encourages corruption.”

Chairman of the Senate committee on Aviation, Senator Dino Melaye, earlier in his contribution, spoke on issues

that need urgent intervention.

According to him, “There is a need to review our curriculum, to carry subjects like civic education, nationalism, moral philosophy that will bind us together as a people.

On annual budget presentation, Melaye declared that “the issue of budget passage is a major problem that we must look at.

“Over 70 per cent of the bills passed in the Eighth Senate were not assented to by Mr. President.

This is outrageously calamitous.

It calls for instantaneous correction. The process of bill is cumbersome”.

He also commented on the rising wave of corruption in the country saying “95 per cent of

PROMOTING CLEAN ENVIRONMENT…

L-R: Managing Director of Sterling Bank, Abubakar Suleiman; General Manager of Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Dolapo Fasawe; Managing Director of DuPont Nigeria, Mr. David Ogunniyi; Mr Kelechi Nwaoba; and Founder of GreenHubAfrica, Mr. Henry Bassey, marking the International Coastal Clean-up Day with Beach Clean-up at Kid’s Beach Garden in Lagos... recently

Buhari, Akwa Ibom Gov Mourn Former SGF, Ekaette Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja and Okon Bassey in Uyo President Muhammadu Buhari and Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State have expressed shock and grief over the death of a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Ufot Ekaette, describing him as “a consummate administrator and bridge builder”.

Buhari in a condolence message issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, in Abuja yesterday, noted that the deceased “dedicated himself to duty in the course of his distinguished public service.”

Buhari said Ekaette was ”a

gentleman” who gave “his best in the service of his country”.

He condoled with the Ekaette family, the government and people of Akwa Ibom State over the death, and assured them that the deceased would always be remembered for his remarkable public service record and immense contributions towards bringing peace in the once troubled Niger Delta region.

The president expressed regret that “his demise comes at a time when voices like his own are needed to move Nigeria forward in the face of daunting challenges.”

He, however, gave assurance that Ekaette’s contributions would never be in vain as ”the country

would always appreciate and remember his great contributions.”

The president prayed God to comfort the Ekaette family, friends and relations and grant the soul of the departed eternal rest.

In his condolence message, Emmanuel acknowledged the contributions of the deceased to the development of the state as a former deputy governor.

The governor in the message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ekerete Udoh said the departed elder statesman would be celebrated for his contributions to the development of Akwa Ibom State in particular and Nigeria in general.

“He was a thoroughbred

public servant who was transparent, honest and a stickler for excellence, qualities he brought to bear in the execution of the key offices of public trust he held in the course of his illustrious career,” the governor said.

Ekaette was appointed the first Minister of the Niger Delta Ministry on December 17, 2008 by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua.

He left office in March 2010 when Acting President Goodluck Jonathan dissolved his cabinet.

He was the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and had served Akwa Ibom state in many capacities.

Director General of the Musa/Aro Campaign Organisation, Hon. T. J. Yusuf, has called on the good people of Kogi State to remain steadfast in their resolve to vote the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and usher in a new dawn in the State on November 16.

Yusuf said results of researches and surveys by several pollsters and groups have returned an overwhelming victory for the PDP candidates, Mr. Musa Atai Wada and his running mate, Mr. Sam

Bamidele Aro in the November 16 election.

“The long, tortuous four years of hunger, poverty, violence, collapsed public infrastructure and services, insecurity and violence is coming to an end as happy days are coming again,” Yusuf told a cross-section of volunteers for the campaign yesterday.

The member of the House of Assembly said that on return to office, the PDP government of Musa/Aro would immediately

declare a state of emergency in all critical socio-economic sectors of the state like infrastructure, education, health, agriculture and rural and urban development.

He regretted that intermittent water scarcity has returned to the state capital as the Greater Lokoja Water Works, which ended the intractable problem of water in the state capital and environs, had been left to decay by the present administration just as the

multi-million state specialist hospital and diagnostic centre is no longer functioning.

“It is worrisome that after collecting close to N400 billion in less than four years, the present government has not only failed to embarked on any meaningful project that will improve the lives of the people, but it’s abandoning functional critical infrastructure inherited from the PDP administrations to rot away.”

Gunmen Kidnapped LGVice Chairman in Katsina Kogi’s Agony to End Soon, SaysYusuf seven on motorcycles stormed Francis Sardauna in Katsina Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have kidnapped the Vice Chairman of Charanchi Local Government Area of Katsina State, Mr. Aminu Hassan.

Hassan, according to sources, was kidnapped at his residence in Yan Albasa on Wednesday at about 10.47 p.m.

A credible source in the area told THISDAY yesterday that the victim was with his family when the abductors numbering about

his residence.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Gambo Isah has also confirmed the development.

He said a team of Police patron, SARS and CID personnel were combing the nearby bushes with a view to rescuing him.

“We are getting onto a lead which I won’t disclose because of the sensitive nature of the case, but I’m assuring you that he will be rescued,” he added.

corruption is this country is through procurement”.

On his part, Chairman of the Senate committee on Culture and Tourism, Senator Rochas Okorocha urged the Senate to introduce the principle of sacrifice, adding, “we must cut our coat according to the materials available.”

On his part, the Chairman of Senate committee on Primary Healthcare and communicable diseases, Senator Chukwuka Utazi submitted that the proceeds of corruption bill that was passed before the close of the Eighth Senate has not been signed and it is still lingering.

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NEWS

Fatoyinbo’s Ex-Spiritual Mentors Allege History of Sexual Misdemeanour against Pastor Chiemelie Ezeobi As the controversy surrounding the allegations of rape against the Senior Pastor of Commonwealth of Zion (COZA), Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, continues to spiral, two of his erstwhile spiritual mentors have shed more light on the saga.

Fatoyinbo has over the years faced the allegations of sexual misbehaviour, first by Ese Walters, a church member who claimed they had an affair and then the recent case of celebrity photographer, Mrs. Busola Dakolo, who accused him of raping her years ago.

Other women have come out to make same allegations, but some of them spoke off the record, while others blurred their face on a pre-recorded television programme on Ynaija TV. Adesuwa Onyenokwe of Arise News, a sister broadcast arm of THISDAY Newspaper, travelled to Ilorin, Kwara State capital and home of Fatoyinbo’s early start, to talk to Pastor Busola Olotu of Daughters of Deborah International Ministries (DODIM), and Pastor Emmanuel Oset of Canaan Ministries a.k.a Champion’s Church.

While Olotu was a mentor, Oset on the other hand, was once Fatoyinbo’s spiritual father who officially ordained him into ministry in Ilorin before the pastor relocated to Abuja.

In the hour-long interview, the duo tacitly revealed that Fatoyinbo allegedly had a history of rape allegations when he was in Ilorin.

According to Olotu, her relationship with Fatoyinbo started after the latter sought her out to honour her during one of the programmes his ministry had in Ilorin.

She said: “He appeared as a respectful young man that was trying to find himself in ministry; so, I drew near to him and his wife. At a point he left Ilorin but he didn’t tell me.”

On the silence of the Christian body about the Dakolo issue she said: “It is unacceptable and I am personally disappointed that people who are nominal Christians are making noise about this but the Christian body is a silent as a grave yard. There has to be a stand. This issue can’t be swept under the carpet. We can’t pretend that we are deaf and that we are blind to this. This doesn’t glorify God.”

Unraveling how she came to know about Dakolo’s case she said: “In 2011, a young lady joined this ministry and her name is Funmi Ayeni. She gravitated towards me as a mother and we became close. She shared deep things with me.

“In 2011, she walked into my office and she was agitated, everything about her was ruffled.

She said it’s about my younger sister, Busola and that she has been facing deep psychological challenges since something happened to her years ago.

“I asked what happened and she said her sister was raped by a pastor. So many emotions ran though me because I am a mother and a pastor. She said since then, her life has not remained same.

I asked who the pastor was and she was a bit hesitant but later she mentioned Biodun.

“At that point, he was no longer

in Ilorin and I didn’t even know where he was. What went through my mind was what could have possessed a man of God to do this.

To be quite honest, to connect it was a bit difficult to me because it wasn’t what I expected to hear.

“She said her sister was the best in their home in terms of everything- commitment to God and that she (Funmi) felt responsible because they made her start attending the church.

“I was going through so many emotions and I couldn’t marry the same Biodun I knew with what I heard. She called Busola on the phone and even on the phone she was truly troubled. I could hear that on the phone.

She was asking questions why it happened to her. She wasn’t married then.”

Olotu said the psychological trauma took its toll on Dakolo as she had troubles getting into

a relationship, as she continually had mood swings.

But that was not all. Olotu said as part of her ministry, she has handled rape cases since Dakolo opened up in 2011, and at least three of those she later handled actually made same allegations against Fatoyinbo.

She said it was unfortunate that there was no way to prove it if they were not willing to confront the pastor.

She said: “I see all these broken victims but they are not confronting the pastor. They feel abused, traumatised and fear that people will know. Some of them are married now and they didn’t tell their husband and they don’t want their family on the media. There are those who are single and they ask who will marry them if they hear it.”

“I eventually reached out to

Biodun. I had a revelation and I saw myself being transported on an elevator to a pent house.

I was transported through the door and I saw Rev. Biodun on a bed with a girl.

“I asked how he could do this and that it’s wrong. He leaned up and he said there is a grace that covers this kind and that if I want it, he will show me the world.

“I went to Rev Oset and told him the dream and at that point, I didn’t don’t know Rev Oset had ordained Fatoyinbo into ministry. When I told him, Rev said ‘could it be that Biodun has not stopped this’. “ “On Ese Walters I wanted to find out if it was true. I wanted to find out if it was true. I wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt. I can’t say he is guilty because he didn’t answer me.”

Atiku’s Appeal at Supreme Court will Fail again, Buhari Supporters Boast Chuks Okocha in Abuja Buhari Media Organisation (BMO) yesterday described as an exercise in futility the appeal filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and itspresidentialcandidate,AtikuAbubakar, at the Supreme Court, saying the exercise would only re-emphasise the judgment of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal in favour of President Muhammadu Buhari.

BMO, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Niyi Akinsiju and Secretary, Cassidy Madueke, said Atiku and PDP either did not read or they did not understand the judgement of the tribunal, adding that the judgement of the tribunal was quite clear and unequivocal about the opposition party’s empty petitions.

“If they had thoroughly digested the judgment they would not have wasted their resources to file an appeal. It was one of the very few times that five justices would sit to deliver a judgment and be unanimous in their decision.

This was so because there could not have been any other decision contrary to what they held: Atiku’s case was a no-brainer, and lacked any substance.

“On facts and evidence, they failed.

On technicalities and irregularities, they failed as well. The justices may not have said so, out of respect for the institution of the courts and our democracy, but certainly they must have known that the petition was a waste of time. Any reasonable person would know that. The petition was bound to fail - in whatever direction it took. And it will fail again,” the group said.

BMO alleged that Atiku’s appeal was to satisfy the pressure of marabouts, who had deceived him into believing that he stood a chance at the polls and in the courts.

“What the Supreme Court will do is put a final nail in the coffin where PDP and Atiku’s petition lies.

We strongly believe the Supreme Court would do nothing less than striking out the appeal of the PDP,” BMO added.

LASU Invites Applications for Afro-Brazilian Studies Lagos State University (LASU) has invited interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for admission into programmes in its Centre for Afro-Brazilian studies (LASUCAS).

The Registrar/Secretary to Council, LASU, Mr. AMUNI, Mohammed Olayinka, announced the invitation in a statement yesterday, saying the Government of Brazil gives scholarship in every discipline to hundreds of Nigerian students in every academic session.

According to Olayinka, for any student to enjoy the scholarship

tenable in Brazil, he/she must pass an Examination called “CELPE-Bras”, which is a certificate of proficiency in Portuguese for foreigners.

He added that the CELPE-BRAS is similar to the English TOEFL or the French DELF, since Portuguese is the language of instruction in Brazil, and that the examination is conducted twice every year–October and April.

The programme, he further explained, is therefore to train candidates for both the undergraduate and postgraduate scholarship.

GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY…

L-R: Chief Operating Officer, Caverton Offshore Support Group, Mr. Rotimi Makanjuola; Coordinator, Molecular Biology Laboratory and Senior Lecturer, Department of Pharmacology, Lagos State College of Medicine (LASCOM), Dr. Samira Makanjuola; Acting Provost, Prof.

Anthonia Ogbera; wife of the donor, Mrs. Yoyin Makanjuola; and Trustee, Caverton Foundation, Mr. Niyi Makanjuola, during the unveiling of a multi-million naira Molecular Biology Laboratory donated by Chairman, Caverton Offshore Support Group, Mr. Remi Makanjuola to LASCOM in Ikeja, Lagos…yesterday ETUP UKUTT

Threats to Waive Immunity: PDP Dares Osinbajo to Resign Chuks Okocha in Abuja Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday dared Vice President Yemi Osinbajo to make good his threats to set aside his constitutional immunity by immediately tendering his resignation to face the corruption allegations in which he was named.

The party, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, said since

the Vice President has announced his readiness to renounce his constitutional immunity in the face of corruption allegations, he should as well do the needful by resigning and vacating the office as there is no provision for waiver of immunity in Nigeria’s constitution.

“The PDP holds that immunity under Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) is conferred on an official by virtue of his/her election into an office

within a duration and cannot be waived by any means other than resignation.

“It is instructive to state that Section 308 confers immunity to the holder of the office ‘during his period in office.’ There is no provision for waiver while the holder is still in office,” the opposition said.

PDP reminded Osinbajo that Section 308 can only be set aside by vacating the office, saying “it is not a jacket to be put on or

dropped at will.”

Significantly, the party added that the Vice President should note that his pronouncement has set off a process, which is expected to terminate in his resignation.

PDP said it’s putting the National Assembly on notice to consider the pronouncement by the Vice President as an official communication to the legislature indicating his intention to vacate office.

Appeal Court Upholds Ondo PDP House Member’s Election The Court of Appeal sitting in Akure the Ondo State capital yesterday upheld the election of a member of the House of Representatives from Ondo State, Hon. Ikengboju Gboluga.

Gboluga, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was declared the winner of the February 23, 2019 House of Representatives election in the Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency of the state by the

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

But the All Progressives Congress candidate in the election, Mr. Albert Akintoye, challenged the victory of the PDP candidate at the Election Petition Tribunal, which later nullified the election on the grounds that Gboluga is also a citizen of the United Kingdom.

Not satisfied with the tribunal’s judgment, Gboluga filed an appeal against the lower court judgment.

In a unanimous judgment, the trio of justices of the appellate court held that a Nigerian citizen by birth could not be disqualified from contesting an election because he acquired additional citizenship of other countries and sworn an oath of allegiance to such countries.

The presiding judge, Justice MA Danjuma, who read the judgment, noted that based on the grounds of dual citizenship, the lower court was wrong to

have sacked Gboluga.

The appellate court also faulted the election tribunal, saying it interpreted the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria wrongfully.

To this end, the court voided the judgment of the tribunal and upheld the election of Ikengboju Gboluga as the duly elected representative of Okitipupa/ Irele Federal Constituency of Ondo State.

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NEWS

INEC: No Court Has Overturned Our Off-season Governorship Elections Nseobong Okon-Ekong The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has said it is noteworthy that since its inauguration in November 2015, none of the seven off-season governorship elections conducted so far (polls held outside the context of the general elections) has been

overturned by the courts.

He declared that the achievement was evident that the Commission has demonstrated the capacity to fine-tune its operations, sustain stakeholder engagements and rapidly respond to field challenges in its continuing efforts to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

Revealing the state of preparedness of INEC for

Policeman Killed as Robbers Attack Ekiti Bank Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti A policeman was yesterday killed and millions of Naira allegedly carted away as men of the underworld besieged a bank in Ise-Ekiti and carried out their robbery operations for over 25 minutes.

The incident was said to have happened around 3.30 p. m., when the suspected robbers who came with two vehicles were said to have entered the town through Ikere road.

The killed mobile policeman was among the security personnel attached to the bank.

The suspected robbers were said to have shot sporadically into the air to cause confusion and scare people within the bank’s vicinity.

The Public Relations Officer, Ekiti State Command, DSP Caleb Ikechukwu, who confirmed the incident, said the robbers attacked the bank with dynamite and gained entry into the banking hall.

He confirmed that a policeman was shot in the process.

“I can confirm to you that a bank was robbed at Ise-Ekiti this afternoon. They shot a policeman during the raid.

“The robbers broke the security door with explosive material, precisely they used dynamite.

“Our men are on their trail and we shall ensure that none of them escape. Members of the public are advised to go about their normal businesses. We are ready to protect lives and property at all times,” the police spokesmen stated.

the governorship elections in Bayelsa and Kogi States, Yakubu told a gathering at the second anniversary colloquium of the Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) that the Commission has conducted elections in not less than 197 constituencies outside the context of the general elections.

They include court-ordered rerun elections, bye-elections and end-of-tenure polls.

The 2019 governorship elections were conducted only in 29 states because similar elections have already been conducted in the seven other states (Kogi, Bayelsa, Edo, Ondo, Anambra, Ekiti and Osun).

According to the INEC chairman, who was represented at the event by his Chief Press

Secretary, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, “All non-sensitive materials for the November 16 governorship election in Bayelsa and Kogi States have been delivered to the two states, while sensitive materials will be delivered one month before the election day.”

He further disclosed that “the Commission has made all uncollected Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) available for collection, and this will continue till September 30.

Seven out of the activities have so far been undertaken. The eighth activity, which is the last day for the submission of nomination forms by political parties, will take place on October 2. The official register of voters will be published on October 3 while the final list of nominated candidates will follow on October 17. There will be three

other activities until the election day on November 16.”

Informing the gathering that the ninth National Assembly has already referred 12 bills seeking to amend the provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 and the Electoral (Amendment) Act 2015 to the Committee on Electoral and Political Parties Matters for further legislative action after the second reading, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, who was represented by Hon. Tijani Kayode Ismail, said the major areas of the proposed amendment include:- ‘A bill proposing that a court or tribunal should declare the person with the second highest votes winner of an election if it finds/holds that the winner of the election

was not qualified to contest the election ab initio.

‘A bill proposing to mandate all political parties to ensure that women leaders are women or persons of the feminine gender, and that all youth leaders are between the ages of 18 to 45 as at the date of elections into such offices.

‘A bill for an Act to outline a procedure for the use of the Smart Card Reader in elections ‘A bill for an Act to increase maximum election expenses to be incurred by a presidential or gubernatorial candidate, senatorial and House of Representatives seat; state assembly and council area chairmanship elections. It also seeks to increase the amount that an entity or individual can donate to a candidate.”

Resign First beforeYou Criticise Buhari, Umahi Tells Aides Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State yesterday threatened to sack any of his aides who insults President Muhammadu Buhari.

Umahi also warned that any of his appointees who insults any governor or downplays their achievements will have his or her appointment terminated.

The governor said this in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on New Media, Mr. Francis Nwaze, and made

available to journalists in Abakaliki.

The governor’s aide quoted his principal as saying that anybody who wishes to “throw unnecessary stone against any of the above mentioned leaders should be ready to leave the administration.

Nwaze, in the statement, added “The Ebonyi State Governor, David Nweze Umahi, has prohibited any of his political appointees from castigating or abusing the Nigerian President,

Muhammadu Buhari.

“Doing such to any government or any governor in this country has no value to add to his administration.”

“The Governor has advised that anyone who wishes to throw unnecessary stone against any of the above mentioned leaders, should, in his or her own best interest, get ready to leave his government as such will attract immediate sacking.

“Any posting, henceforth, against the President, any governor or government from any of his appointees will attract immediate termination of appointment by him.

“If you want to castigate the President, his government or any governor, you must leave Governor Umahi’s government first.

“How does such castigation help the governor’s government?” the governor queried.

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COMMENT

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

THE LIVING LEGEND OF FAITH

Dan Aibangbe pays tribute to David Oyedepo, presiding Bishop of Winners’ Chapel, at age 65

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ishop David Oyedepo, otherwise known as “Papa� by his teeming followers and admirers, is a no-nonsense fire-brand preacher, teacher and faith entrepreneur. A stickler for excellence, this Christian professional (architect) is doubtless one of a kind! He has managed to form a perfect blend of discipline, spirituality, visionary leadership and entrepreneur-

ship.

Although his galaxy of achievements is up there for all to see, many still find it difficult to comprehend how an individual could consistently maintain such a flawless trajectory in life and still have enough smiles to spare.

Bishop Oyedepo can safely be referred to as the Encyclopedia Biblica.

He reels out scriptures endlessly verbatim in his teachings and sermons without opening the Bible. This is the result of ‘eating’ the word and ‘vomiting’ it fully digested, for the edification of his audience.

The bishop is also a voracious-reader of both scriptural and secular literature in an endless quest for knowledge. He is a believer in versatility and does not tolerate mediocrity under the guise of spiritualism as lots of modern-day Christians are wont to do.

In coming up with this write-up, it took a great effort to dig down deep enough to find any additional information about this exceptional man of God. Being an author par excellence, he has written a lot to provide uncommon practical ‘insights-to-life’ for his teeming audience.

Similarly, a lot has been written about him, both online and offline. I discovered a key cited in the Biblical book of Matthew, Chapter 6, Verse 33. This seemingly innocuous scripture known to all is the driving force behind Papa’s colossal imagery. He has been able to master its simplistic implications and blended it with personal discipline, honesty, forthrightness and complete faith in God. Another open-secret of Papa’s success is his amiable wife and partner, Mama Faith Abiola Oyedepo. To any man of wisdom, it’s clear that behind every successful man, there is a woman dutifully fulfilling her God-ordained role of helpmate. It’s no mere coincidence that Mama was rechristened ‘Faith’, which is the central theme of the entire Winners Ministries. Mama Faith Oyedepo is an authority on Family Life, Marital Success, Youth and Women Empowerment. She has produced great offspring in David Jnr, Isaac, Joy and Love. She consistently makes great impact in the lives of the underprivileged through her Faith Abiola Oyedepo Foundation.

Papa’s humble beginning started on September 27, 1954 in the quiet, ancient town of Oshogbo. He was born into a mixed-religion (Muslim/ Christian combo) parental background, native of Omu Aran in Kwara State. He inculcated spiritual discipline early enough, especially in the areas of prayerfulness and tithing. These virtues provided a solid foundation for his astronomical success. Papa officially became born again in 1969 at the age of 15.

As an architect, he had a stint with the Federal Ministry of Housing before resigning into full time ministry. He would later receive a PHD in Human Development from the Honolulu University, Hawaii, USA. His major break in life came through in an 18-hour vision from God in May 1981, with the mandate to liberate the world from all manner of oppression of the devil through the preaching of the word of faith.

THE MINISTRY OF BISHOP OYEDEPO TRANSCENDS SPIRITUALITY TO INCLUDE SERVICE TO MANKIND IN THE AREAS OF BASIC NEEDS SUCH AS HOUSING, EDUCATION, CHARITY, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, LEADERSHIP

The vision led him to establish the Living Faith Church Worldwide, initially called Liberation Faith Hour Ministries.

The Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel International) started in Kaduna and later moved to Lagos and then to the present headquarters at Canaan Land, Ota. The land area here which was virtually a virgin land covering over 10,000 acres is an example of a well-planned urban development, including a university, a mega housing estate, a mega power plant, a mega church auditorium and everything you will expect from a well-organized government. The 50,000-capacity auditorium presently runs about four services every Sunday, each always filled to capacity.

The Ministry of Bishop Oyedepo has a unique signature, centered on the theme of Faith and Dominion prosperity. It is built on the principle of putting God first, as captured in the verse in Matthew 6:33. The Bishop deliberately encourages all his followers, mentees and associates to spare no effort in planting sacrificial seeds in the vineyard of God as the master key to personal and corporate exponential growth. This principle is openly practiced by the bishop himself.

The fighting spirit in him also recognizes the need for effectual deployment of the entire Christian arsenal, including praise-worship, fervent prayers, prophetic utterances and blessings. The father-figure in him spans the Nigerian religious landscape with many notable men of God openly affirming him as their mentor. His commitment to the expansion of the kingdom of God here on earth as well as his exemplary leadership style affirms him as an architect of positive change and a catalyst for economic development.

The ministry of Bishop Oyedepo transcends spirituality to include service to mankind in the areas of basic needs, such as housing, education, charity, entrepreneurship, leadership and a host of others.

It’s reputed for uniting people of different backgrounds and nationalities as well shaping characters of people from diverse cultures. Based on Papa’s effectual teachings, the church has experienced monumental growth, locally and internationally. An insight into the magnitude can be gleaned from statistics. The Living Faith Church Worldwide is a mega church with a global network in more than 65 countries.

Between April and September 2019 alone, over 5,000 new branches of the church were established.

Most of the achievements of Bishop Oyedepo are in the public domain. However, it is necessary to mention a few of the less visible ones, especially his authorship of many bestsellers on themes such as Faith, Destiny, Breakthroughs, Wisdom, the Supernatural, Prayers, Divine Health, etc. We capture some of his philosophies in quotes such as, “it’s character that gives birth to capacity. The loss of character is equal to the loss of everything�; “don’t let life master you. You must learn to master life�; “your dream of getting to the top may not be fully realized if all you are doing is merely wishing and not working�.

Times Magazine once asked Oyedepo why he works so hard and does not take off time to rest, since as the saying goes, “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy�. His response was simply, “it depends on the kind of work Jack is doing�.

Aibangbe wrote from Lagos (danaibangbe@yahoo.com)

BUHARI AND HIS SEVEN PERM SECS The nation will benefit from the wealth of experience of the permanent secretaries whose tenures had been extended, writes Tajudeen Kareem

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t is settled in labour relations that he who hires has the authority to fire.

That is what applied to the amiable, industrious and proud daughter of Adiabo Okurikang in Odukpani Local Government, Cross River State, Mrs. Winifred Ekanem Oyo-Ita, until last week, the head of service of the federation.

Her story is well known but the facts may not have been fully established. President Muhammadu Buari has only exercised the powers vested in him by asking Oyo-Ita to step aside, temporarily, to allow a thorough investigation of the allegations of abuse of office against her.

Her replacement is by no means a push over in the federal civil service and service to the country. Folashade Yemi-Esan, a firstclass dental surgeon, and proud alumnus of the University of Ibadan, began her career in the Federal Civil Service at the Federal Ministry of Health after graduation in 1987 from the nation’s premier university.

She rose to the position of permanent secretary in 2012 when she first served as permanent secretary, service policy and strategy in the Office of the Head of Service of the Federation.

Her tour of duty has seen her serving as permanent secretary in the Federal Ministry of Information and the Federal Ministry of Education, among others. She was, until her recent elevation as head of service last week, the permanent secretary at the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources. Her selection

was probably endorsed by President Buhari on account of her vast experience and being the most senior permanent secretary in the federal civil service.

But perhaps more significant is the decision of President Buhari to extend the tenure of seven permanent secretaries who were expected to retire, at various dates, between September and December, 2019. By presidential fiat, the lucky seven distinguished public officers have had their tenures extended by one calendar year beginning this October.

So how did the President acquired this executive power, some well-meaning people may ask. Others, more discerning, have also observed that the president had in the recent past granted extension of tenure to military chiefs, to wit, the chief of defence staff and the service chiefs - heads of army, air force and the navy.

The Nigerian Constitution at Section 171 (2) empowers the president to appoint persons to hold or act in appointive offices at his pleasure. It is also his prerogative to determine the duration of such appointments, although extant rules stipulate a maximum of 35 years in service or 60 years age, which ever comes first.

Section 171 (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), unambiguously vested in the president, the power to appoint persons to hold or act as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Head of the Civil

Service of the Federation, ambassadors, high commissioners or other principal representatives of Nigeria abroad as well as permanent secretaries in the ministries, departments and agencies.

In clear terms, Section 171 (2) is explicit on the power of the president on who may be appointed, act or be removed as permanent secretary in any ministry or head of any extra-ministerial department of the Government of the Federation or ‘howsoever designated’.

Beyond acting within the confines of the law, many analyst would also agree that President Buhari has a moral responsibility to ensure that the fabric of the federal civil service is not unwittingly eroded by the sudden departure of seven permanent secretaries within three months. The consequential impact of such depletion of well-trained and tested civil servants cannot be in the interest of the nation and the effective delivery of the programmes and development agenda of the Buhari administration.

Going down memory lane, it is instructive to remember that before the appointment of new ministers, specifically between May 29 and August 21, this year, permanent secretaries ran the affairs of ministries, department and agencies. Besides, prior to the inauguration of the cabinet, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation organised a Presidential retreat for ministers and permanent secretaries

where nine priority areas of government where identified to be jointly executed by ministers and permanent secretaries.

It is also expected that these permanent secretaries have a crucial role to play in the avowed intention of the executive arm of government to kick-start the process for the 2020 budget, and working in collaboration with the National Assembly, to return to the January-December budget cycle.

Furthermore, the creation of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development while demerging four others, and thus expanding the bureaucracy, underscores the need for experienced hands to nurture them to stability.

One other solid consideration for the tenure elongation is the fact that the process for finding replacements for the seven permanent secretaries due for retirement is multi layered and may take up to three months. By tradition, to climb to the peak of the federal civil service, those on the directorate level go through thorough security screening after written and oral examinations.

The sudden exit of Mrs. Oyo-Ita as head of service may not necessarily affect this process. However, it may not be expedient for government to allow the loss of personnel who have garnered experience, become fully matured but have not yet attained the retiring age of 60 years. Certainly the nation can benefit more from their wealth of experience!

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2019

EDITORIAL THE RISING WAVE OF CULTISM The security agencies could do more to contain the menace of cultism

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he worrying climate of gang violence and lawlessness crept earlier in the week to a little known community named Iyakpi, near Auchi in Edo State. There, on Sunday, a graduate of the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Irale Obas, was murdered along with four others during a cult clash. Obas’ killing came barely 24 hours after the killing of a popular disc jockey, Sekiru Jeliu, also a former student of the polytechnic, in the same community.

From Plateau to Ogun, Rivers to Cross River and Lagos to Kwara States, the rate at which young men butcher one another in the name of cult killings has become increasingly worrisome. Recently no fewer than 16 people were killed following cult crises in two different local government areas of Rivers State: 14 were killed by cultists at Kono Boue and Gbam Boue communities of Khana council while two people were killed WHAT IS MORE in Ishiodu village, PERPLEXING IS THAT THE in Emohua council.

MENACE HAS BECOME What is more perSO WIDESPREAD THAT plexing is that the menace has become ARMED ROBBERS, DRUG so widespread that PEDDLERS AND OTHER SUNDRY MISCREANTS ARE armed robbers, drug peddlers and other NOW BEING RECRUITED sundry miscreants INTO THE FOLD are now being recruited into the fold. In many states of the federation, cultists of various stripes act with impunity, killing, raping and maiming victims while causing widespread destruction. Yet the authorities seem helpless in dealing with the surging crime.

For sure, cultism is not new in Nigeria. Several people have identified with one form of cultism or another either for personal/family protection or for the promotion and safeguard of certain interests. But today, cultism has become almost like a status symbol, especially on our campuses where

Letters to the Editor

members kill sometimes for reasons as flimsy as being snubbed by a student of the opposite sex. But the menace has moved from the campuses of our institutions of higher learning to the streets and these criminal gangs operate without restraints, perhaps because they have powerful backers within the society. “Right now, schools don’t have much of cult activities and violent cult activities are now community-based because there are structures in schools to identify and fish them out which is not found in the community,” said Dr Peter Olapegba, a lecturer in the Department of Psychology, University of Ibadan. “Those who are involved in cultism are not just recruiting student members but also recruiting members of the community into their group and rather than having violence in the schools, violence takes place in the communities and becomes very difficult to control.”

S 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

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WHY KANAWA PREFERS GANDUJE TO ABBA

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ince the formal declaration of Ganduje as the over-all winner of the 2019 gubernatorial election, many observers have continued to express divergent views. And not surprisingly, whereas some are elated about the outcome, many others are deeply saddened and depressed with the turn of events.

No doubt, the voting patterns had brought into the fore two inter-related issues. First, a strong desire for change in the status quo ante by especially youth and second, a firm resolve and preference to maintain the current order of things by elders. But while the former premised their resolved for change based on Ganduje’s purported inability to continue with free education policy of kwankwasiyya, and foreign sponsorship of students to pursue diverse field of studies; and the infamous debacle; the latter chooses continuity, going forward. Indeed, Kanawa were caught in-between a devil and a deep blue sea in terms of choice. Come to think of it, morally, most people don’t like Ganduje and politically, Kwankwaso may not be the right choice for obvious reasons. But by voting for Ganduje however, Kanawa has chosen the lesser of the two extremes in terms of how their resources can be utilized and religious feelings and sentiments respected.

Personally, most voters don’t have any negative feelings toward Abba Gida Gida. But the history

ome few years ago, some prominent personalities were among 67 suspected cultists arrested and quizzed in Benin City, the Edo State capital, by men of the special squad deployed in the state by the police authorities to curb the growing killings and cult activities. In the days preceding the deployment of the police team, some criminals said to be members of ‘Eiye’, ‘Black Axe’, ‘Buccaneers’, ‘Aiye’ and ‘Jurist’ confraternities had unleashed hell on the streets of Benin. The body count was 22 dead. Among those arrested for their alleged involvement in the mayhem were 14 Junior Secondary School students between the ages of 12 and 15.

In all the foregoing, what is particularly disturbing is that the authorities seem bewildered in tackling the endemic problems of cult wars. While some attributed the spike in cult activities to poverty, unemployment, general indiscipline and lack of parental care, most people believe the crime will continue to thrive because there are no convictions as deterrence. And as long as this persists, Nigerians may have to brace up for more gang violence.

of Kwankwaso’s overbearing influence and cheap utterances had put off many into direct opposition to his political aspirations and that clearly favoured Ganduje’s ultimate electoral success. Among the many reasons which led to Kwankwasiyya’s shocking defeat in the last re-run poll, suffice it to mention some that are by no means exhaustive as follows: First, had Abba Gida Gida won, a complex state like Kano would have been saddled with an inexperienced administrator who would need more time to learn some basic rudiments of governance. And Kwankwaso would have been the de-factor governor by proxy-a situation many elders vehemently detest. In addition to that, most Kanawa are opposed to Kwankwaso doing ‘third term’ as governor of Kano which would have paved the way for the politics of ‘god-Fatherism’ in Kano with all its attendant negative after-effects.

Moreover, politics of witch-hunt, and vendetta would have been entrenched in the state had PDP snatched victory. And nobody is sure whether current ongoing projects in the metropolitan city will be completed.

Aside these, there have been justified palpable fear that Kwankwaso’s dream for another shot at presidency would be solely financed by Kano taxpayers money having effectively taken control of all the levers of power and its finances.

Kabir Tsakuwa, Kano

EFCC’S FIGHT AGAINST CYBERCRIMES

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he rising internet fraud, known as Yahoo-Yahoo, is worsening by the day. No wonder one begins to express fear for the future generation of Nigerians.

“Yahoo-Yahoo” as a phrase picked its nickname after the international web portal and search engine, describing how the cybercrime offences are committed using the web portal as a tool. The Yahoo-Yahoo boys are usually seen with multiple electronic gadgets like laptops and phones which they use to perpetrate their illicit acts. Most of the crimes are mainly “romance scams”, “employment scams”, “identity theft”, “fraudulent online vehicle sales scams”, “rental scams,” and “lottery scams,” etc., where victims are convinced they won an international lottery but must pay fees or taxes before receiving the payouts.

These entire schemes for making money by dishonest means are to convince or ensnare their victims into believing that they are in legitimate business whereas they are all scams.

These forms of crimes are gradually ravaging the hope of the young Nigerians by taking them away from hard work, entrepreneurship and academic yearnings.

Today, the fraud has become a ‘business’

of sort as many of them have become super rich through the dubious means of livelihood while many are languishing in several Nigerian prisons.

It has been seen that in recent times, the cases of Yahoo-Yahoo boys being arrested and prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC) is on the increase.

Just a few weeks ago, the US Security agents arrested 281 ‘Yahoo-Yahoo Boys’ worldwide and the disturbing fact is that a whopping 167 suspects are from Nigeria, a signal that many Nigerian youths are no long pursuing legitimate means of living but through crimes and criminality.

The operation which resulted in the seizure of nearly $3.7 million, amounting to about N1.3b, is a dangerous dimension.

Though the EFCC’s efforts in its mandate to fight corruption, financial and economic crimes have been commendable but the commission needs all hands to be on deck to fight the scourge of internet fraud and other forms of corruption in our country.

The EFCC cannot do it alone. We should all join hands with the anti-graft agency and others to nip this monster in the bud.

Idorenyin Ekpoh, Jabi, Abuja

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2019 • T H I S D AY

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POLITICS

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

On the Controversial Proposed Purachase of Vehicles for the 9th Senate Egbo Mon-Charles

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his is certainly not a good time for mindless spending or anything close to extravagance in Nigeria. The ultimate expectation of average citizens from government is a better living standard, no less. Moreover, the cumulative effects of hunger, poverty, diseases, insecurity and infrastructure deficit, which are symptomatic of a weak economy, have apparently modified the psyche of most Nigerians to always react spontaneously any time there is government policy or action that tend to aggravate the situation irrespective of intentions.

This explains the various expressed concerns over the proposed vehicle purchase for the federal lawmakers which eventually have culminated in a litigation.

Based on a report yet to be confirmed by the National Assembly, a sum of N5.5billion will go into the project, exclusively for the Senate. This prompted widespread wrangling across the country.

In the end, a cross-section of Nigerians including a coalition of civil society groups spearheaded by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, instituted a legal action. In the suit, they seek orders of the court “compelling the ninth Senate to undertake a downward review of the amount proposed and budgeted for purchase of vehicles.” Also it is their demand that the court should stop both the release and collection of “the sum of N5.550 billion proposed and budgeted for purchase of vehicles for principal members of Senate until the downward review of the amount.”

And elsewhere, others admit that indeed the vehicle purchase is in order but are divided in their reservations.

While one part only disagrees with the choice of expensive and non-Nigerian brand, the other faults the move on the ground that “at the end of their four-year term, the SUV cars and other property bought for the use of their offices would be sold at giveaway prices to them by the national assembly management.”

These different positions, however, are in favour of an appeal for the National Assembly to reconsider the proposal, at least, in solidarity with the masses over the economic state of the nation.

Also expressing his own views, the chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Anti-Corruption (PACAC), Professor Itse Sagay (SAN), noted that the, “Issue of providing luxury cars for oversight functions has been of concern to many Nigerians because of expenses involved and cost of governance in general.”

Empirically, from these lines of argument, the merits of working vehicles for the legislators are not in question.

There is unanimity of opinion that it is legitimate because it is a convention that has even predated this dispensation for top government officials including legislators and judicial officers to get car allowances upon assuming public offices in Nigeria. Such obtains, of course, at the local council administrations. It is meant primarily to ease and enhance their operations towards efficient discharge of their duties. The ministers, governors and certain heads of ministerial departments and agencies including some council chairmen, maintain fleets of cars in their convoys which is indicative of necessity of official cars.

Also in the course of the clamour, there was a concern about the propriety of the senators simultaneously receiving full-package allowances and being provided with vehicles. But this is a wrong

Lawan

representation. It is common knowledge that the purchase amount as a policy, is deducted from their entitlements over time during their four-year term. With this, the possibility of shortchanging the treasury is totally annulled. Succinctly put, the money for the vehicles is already for the lawmakers, having been earmarked as part of their legitimate

But this is a wrong representation. It is common knowledge that the purchase amount, as a policy, is deducted from their entitlements over time during their four-year term. With this, the possibility of shortchanging the treasury is totally annulled. Succinctly put, the money for the vehicles is already for the lawmakers, having been earmarked as part of their legitimate emoluments as public office holders. And apparently also, this is the rationale for choosing a more durable brand that will not ordinarily lose value within a short period particularly before their tenure is up. Otherwise the beneficiaries could be empowered to challenge subsequent deductions thereby creating opportunities for waste

emoluments as public office holders. And apparently also, this is the rationale for choosing a more durable brand that will not ordinarily lose value within a short period particularly before their tenure is up. Otherwise the beneficiaries could be empowered to challenge subsequent deductions thereby creating opportunities for waste.

In the final analysis, the basis for objections even though justifiable, is the prevailing economic hardship in the country. It has seemingly blurred all other reasons and presented the project as an act of profligacy and insensitivity which incidentally also, is being fueled by the perennial perception as to the humongous pay packages of the federal lawmakers.

Therefore, while identifying with the genuine concerns of public-spirited Nigerians for socioeconomic readjustments, it is instructive that every step aimed at cutting down the cost of governance should be holistically taken if it must be effective and seen to stand the test of morality. The three arms of government should be subjected to the same fiscal assessment and evaluation.

The constitution is explicit on what accrues to public officers in the country.

As such, it is only ideal that whatever review necessary now in view of the unstable economy should be effected appropriately and across board. Otherwise, the practice of deliberately isolating only the National Assembly for criticism and attack undermines whatever sincerity of purpose relative to this advocacy. There should be a broad-based ethical and value re-orientation programme targeted at the public service. Of course, it has to be devoid of political sentiments in order to eliminate every mutual suspicion tendency as well as catalyze enthronement of culture of transparency and sustainable participatory democracy.

And towards this dimension despite even the mostly-calculated hostilities, the unique feature of the 9th Senate is that it is founded upon and driven by corporate desire to engender true democratic ideals, probity and diligent commitment to responsiveness and public engagement.

Senator Ahmad Lawan since assumption of office as the Senate President has been demonstrating uncommon will and zeal to do things differently, particularly

with a view to bridging the communication gap existing between the National Assembly generally and the public, in the overall interest of the Nigerian masses.

His mentality and mindset to deliver are profound and unwavering.

As a visionary leader, he has developed a blueprint of the character, direction and quality of the 9th senate he aspired to lead. To underscore his sound knowledge of the challenges facing the legislature matched with the requisite capacity to provide specific solutions, his Legislative Agenda seeks among others to, “Reposition the Senate to carry out its constitutional duties of legislation, oversight and representation in an open and transparent manner; strengthen the internal operations and processes of the committees of the Senate towards efficient service delivery; take legislative action to improve national economic conditions including public finance management and national security architecture and to reduce poverty, unemployment and infrastructure deficits.”

And to deepen it with a view to resolving the identified persistent cause of public trust deficit, he emphasized that, “to effectively address the crisis of confidence between the Senate and the general public, the 9th Senate shall adopt a transparent and accountable system that offers full disclosure of its budget in terms of personnel costs, operational expenses and other expenditure.”

Further in his acceptance speech, he stressed that the 9th Senate, “must be operated as an institution that is largely accountable, participatory, collaborative and responsive to the needs, aspirations, rights and liberties of the masses whose mandate we hold in trust.”

But because most people are understandably apathetic sequel to certain actions and inaction of previous assemblies, the viability of this all-encompassing road map for a regenerated, responsive and robust senate, are not being sufficiently acknowledged by the public. Otherwise, close observation shows that all these declarations unarguably define every of his action. Bipartisan and nationalistic dispositions guide his style of leadership.

Hence, Nigerians of goodwill who as a result of previous experiences have lost faith in the National Assembly should kindly reconsider their positions in the overall interest of national rebirth. May they see the fruitful prospects of embracing the hand of fellowship extended by the leadership and then graciously revive their senses of patriotism towards partnering the 9th Senate. Every progressive mind should see reasons beyond the pains and frustrations flowing from the harsh economy and realize that certainly.

There is no way an effective legislature imbued with institutional capacity and creative capabilities for efficient performance can exist without provisions for enabling environment and other factors necessary to drive the overall parliamentary processes.

Among those essentials are operational vehicles and public cooperation. The vehicle purchase project is definitely legitimate though the only drift is that justifiably, once again, it seems a reckless spending in view of the present state of the economy. But with what the Senate is already doing by way of its commitment to recreating the institution towards, “a transparent and accountable system that offers full disclosure of its budget in terms of personnel costs, operational expenses and other expenditure,” a prosperous Nigeria is possible.

-Egbo, a public relations practitioner, can be reached at moncharles@yahoo.

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2019

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PERSPECTIVE

Is Makinde the Eventual Incarnation of Awolowo?

Femi Salako

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ince the later Premier of old western region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, left Nigeria’s political climate, his kind has been practically none-existient, not even in those who professed his philosophies and political thoughts. It is such that the people were already getting despondent about such possibility until Oyo State gave us, recently, a man whose words and works typify the late Yoruba leader.

Engr. Seyi Makinde is he, the executive governor of Ondo State, who has been working wonders since his election into office, wowing all and sundry with his unprecedented ideologies and fine philosophies. He has done so well within a short stay in governance, and touched lives quite profoundly.

It was unheard off what the governor did lately. He donated his salary for the next four years to the Oyo State Teacher’s Pension Fund in fulfillment of his campaign promise. This has been described as truly striking and profound. Critics have challenged that another Governor who has done something close to this in the Federal Republic of Nigeria should be mentioned.

Marking 100 days in office as governor, the genius governor commissioned a block of 20 classrooms at the Baptist Secondary School, Oyo. The governor restated that his administration would remain committed to ensuring quality and free basic education for all and sundry in the state. He reminded that government will continue to influence and implement good policies that will bring total transformation to the state.

His words reverberate, “With the support of all, we shall record unprecedented achievements and thus leaving our footprints in the sand of time. It is worthy to mention that the present administration is not oblivious of the fact that childhood is filled with natural wonders and curiosity and that learning environment must reflect

Makinde

Awolowo

a classroom and outdoor space that inspire a sense of wanting to investigate and explore.

“We are appealing to all good-spirited and well-meaning Nigerians to partner with the government of the state in eradicating illiteracy and most especially in the area of infrastructural development in public schools. It is very important to reiterate the fact that the major responsibility of the government is to ensure that quality and free basic education is provided for school-age children, as they are the leaders of tomorrow.”

Beyond rhetoric, the performing governor Makinde has matched words with works, within the short stay in office, he has, among other feats, recorded lofty achievements that are of note and referral.

He is giving free primary and secondary education, including free exercise books and other materials for all school children; pensioners and workers get paid every 25th of the month and 23rd if the pay day falls on weekend.

The governor has launched Oyo StateFarmcrowdy Agribusiness Partnership to commence a three-year plan with 50,000 farmers in the state; 100 units of Kia Rio 1.4 Executive Automatic Transmission vehicles for the various security agencies and Criminalised Open Grazing in Oyo State.

The ‘Star Boy began e-registration of everyone living in Oyo State to determine the number of people living and doing business in the state; proscribed NURTW because of violence in the state and to this day, they are yet to be back, and awarded N500,000 bursary for every Oyo State indigene studying in the Nigerian Law School.

Apart from publicly declaring his assets, Makinde established Oyo State Financial Crimes Commission to fight graft in government, for which he is ready to waive his immunity if found to have stolen from government. The N3000 levy imposed on Oyo school children by Ajimobi was cancelled the second week Seyi took office

and declared full free and quality education in the state. What’s more? The wonder governor declared his monthly salary as N650,000.

The governor has also flagged-off the light up Ibadan project, embarked on the deployment of smart LED street lighting technology to fight crimes in the state capital and other parts of the state, to improve the security of lives and position the state for socio-economic drive. The project is worth N1.772 billion, having gone through public procurement due process and due consideration of the Executive Council.

It includes replacement of the existing underperforming street light fittings with improved modern technology street lights fitting and installation of new ones at the strategic routes.

Governor Makinde has also increased the car loan to civil servants from N500,000 to N750,000 and the housing loan from N2 million to N3 million in order to assist the civil servants in the state. He also approved a monthly grant of N20 million for car loan for the state workers; N15 million as car loan for Teaching Service Commission staff and N20 million for housing loan to ensure that more civil servants benefit from the schemes.

Makinde, however, maintained that despite the N1 billion increase in the wage bill, his government has been paying and will not waiver. He said, “Governance for us is beyond politics or religion. Nobody under my watch will be discriminated against because of political leaning or religion. So, those who want to divide us with political or religion sentiment should find another work to do.”

With this rare stuff of a leader atop the affairs of Oyo State and with support from the people of the state, total transformation can be taken for granted. By the time he is rounding up on his term of office, Eldorado may be only inches away.

-Salako can be reached at trianglemagazine8@gmail.com

Is Mallam Abba Kyari APC’s Mr Fix It? Magnus Onyibe

I

t’s not all the time that people who can fix things especially in politics show up on the radar.

Sometimes people with such skill set and competency are like the meteor or comet that appear once in a life time.

They are the likes of Karl Rove, a USA political consultant.

After George W.Bush’s election , in 2000, of which Rove was the architect of his victory , he was appointed advisor to the president.

At the White House, he supervised the Offices of Strategic Initiatives, Political Affairs, Public Liaison, and Intergovernmental Affairs and was Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, coordinating the White House policy-making process.

When President Bush wanted to get re-elected in 2004, Karl Rove was also the architect of his victory.

Karl was so influential that he was described by respected author and columnist Michael Barone in U.S. News & World Report as, “Unique…no Presidential appointee has ever had such a strong influence on politics and policy, and none is likely to do so again anytime soon.” Washington Post columnist David Broder has called Karl a master political strategist whose “game has always been long term…and he plays it with an intensity and attention to detail that few can match.” Fred Barnes, executive editor of The Weekly Standard, has called Karl “the greatest political mind of his generation and probably of any generation.

He knows history, understands the moods of the public, and is a visionary on matters of public policy.”

Does the description of Karl Rove and adulation by those who should know, as captured above, not remind you of the role our own Abba kyari is playing in Aso Rock villa, Nigeria’s equivalent of the White

House in the USA ?

As the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari , Kyari has been tagged with all sorts of labels, not least, de facto President of Nigeria, as mischief makers like to refer to him, ostensibly due to the fact that the buck actually stops with him in the Villa, before it finally gets to Mr .President’s table.

Put succinctly, like Karl Rove, Abba Kyari’s imprimatur as a Supremo in Aso Rock Villa is certainly being emblazoned on governance in the de jour President Buhari’s second term in office. Its so good when a leader or president finds a reliable ally that helps him remove grey hairs from his head. That’s primarily the role Abba Kyari’s admirers believe he is playing in Aso Rock villa.

This has been more so with the dismantling of the Economic Management Team, EMT led by the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo in the first tenure, and now replaced with the newly constituted eight, 8-man Economic Advisory Council, EAC which l’m convinced Abba Kyari midwifed, given his background in both the financial services and private sectors of Nigeria .

In the realm of political brinksmanship in the presidential seat of power, there are also the likes of David Axelrod, a USA political consultant and analyst that served as chief strategist for President Barack Obama’s presidential campaign in 2008.

After Obama was elected , Axelrod served as his advisor in the White House shaking up and shaking down the old order until he resigned in 2011 to prosecute Obama’s reelection in 2012.

We are all too familiar with the fact that , Abba Kyari is one of the major enablers of Buhari ‘s successful second term bid against all odds.

In the UK, there is also David Cummings, who is currently saddled with the unenviable task of decoupling the UK from the

European Union of which he was the driver of the initiative for Britain to exit in 2016.

With the new British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson racing against time , Cummins has just been tapped to finish what he started by leading the apparently inevitable exit of Britain from the European Union in three months, an exercise that has already resulted in the political nunc dimitis of two British prime ministers- David Cameron and Theresa May. Considering that Abba Kyari is one of the couple of top Aso Rock Villa apparatchiks that testified in favor of President Buhari in the presidential election tribunal, where, in defense of his principal, he audaciously declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is an alien in Nigeria , (basically because the part of Adamawa state where the PDP candidate was born, was allegedly not part of Nigeria during his birth), it will be clearer why he is President Buhari’s go-to-man.

In Nigeria, Abba Kyari seems to be inheriting the title made famous by the quintessential Mr. Fix It- Chief Anthony Anenih of blessed memory , also known as The Leader.

The late chief who was a political godfather to a legion of politicians across all ethnic groups, earned that sobriquet after at least four decades of serving in roles that Italians term-Consigliere and which we in this part of the world refer to as presidential advisor.

In reality, a consigliori is actually a close confidant of the president and expert in legal or political systems, with the ability to circumvent it.

By every measure, Abba Kyari is a policy wonk who understands and even has been involved in weaving the delicate tapestry of the public and private sectors of Nigeria in the past three or more decades.

Apart from being an ex -ournalist

and a former editorial board member of THISDAY Newspapers until recently , Abba kyari was also a major player in the financial services sector by virtue of having been the Managing Director and CEO of United Bank for Africa, before it was subsumed or merged with Tony Elumelu’s Standard Trust Bank, which assumed the name, UBA. A pragmatist who never made enemy of any government-a feat he accomplished by being a back bencher that works quietly from the back room, Kyari has been a critical and prominent member of President Buhari’s inner caucus in nearly four decades including in 1984 when Buhari first served as military Head of State.

Educated in University of Warwick, UK for his first degree in Sociology, he then attended the prestigious Cambridge University also in England for his law degree.

Remarkably, Abba Kyari’s friendship cuts across ethnic and religious divisions that today have unflattering polarized Nigerian society.

Although hawkish in his approach to governance , he is reputed to be the wind beneath the sail of most of the non-Hausa/ Fulani members of the current government which is a testament to his pan Nigeria outlook.

His trade mark red cap and white gown have earned him the nickname, Red Cap-a title that he does not detest, but don’t wear on his sleeves either.

Even though he can be burly looking sometimes , he is easily approachable and so his steely look belies his gentility and sort of reclusiveness.

-Onyibe, a former member of the Delta State Executive Council writes from Lagos NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2019 • T H I S D AY

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T H I S D AY ˾ SEPTEMBER 27, 2019

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET OBB OVERNIGHT

A S

A T

REPO 6.43 % 7.57 %

CALL 1-MONTH 3-MONTH

9.50 % 74 % 11 %

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

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

411.73 % 0.25 % 0.41 %

2 0 , 2 0 1 9

S & P INDEX 1/4 TO DATE 2.86 % YEAR TO DATE 15.34 %

EXCHANGE RATE N306.95/1US DOLLAR* ̩

Quick Takes NAMA Takes Delivery of New Landing Aid

COURTESY VISIT

L-R: Head of Africa Operations, MAERSK Line Global, Ahmed Hassan; Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala-Usman, and Senior Vice President Operations, MAERSK Line Global, Kent Hagbarth, during a working visit to the NPA in Lagos...recently

‘Export of Agriculture Produce Has Increased Significantly’ Chinedu Eze There has been increase in the volume of agriculture produce and other perishables export from Nigeria to mainly European and other countries where there is high population of Nigerians and other Africans.

This was disclosed to THISDAY in exclusive interview, by the Chief Operating Officer of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc, Herbert Odika, who said export was becoming more popular.

According to him, more Nigerians have taken to export as serious business to package farm and other products for export.

This he said, has also created

AVIATION more jobs at the airport and also encouraged farmers in the rural communities who now earn more for the produce.

“I would use this medium to confirm that export is becoming popular and people are beginning to recognise that there are demands, obviously the more people move out of this country, the more demands they have for Nigerians products.

“That is one; secondly one of the challenges we had before with export is packaging. In the past a lot of people do not export, not only from the airport but also through sea freight

because the packaging of these products is not properly done.

The products are rejected when they get over there. “The reasons for the rejection include the fact that the exporters do not know that they should carry out some kind of indemnity or insurance to make sure that both parties are satisfied before things are shipped.

“They are done on friendly basis and when they are returned or rejected they count their losses.

“But now you have improved packaging, especially in the perishable areas like vegetables, most commonly Ugu (pumpkin leaves), which is vegetable originally known by eastern Nigeria but is now eaten by

every Nigerian. So the volume of export has increased as far as perishables are concerned.”

Continuing, he said: “We also have vaccines that are moved to African countries, which are exported from Nigeria. Do not forget Nigeria was supposed to be a hub; so you have transshipments of goods that are meant for other countries in the continent.

“They are brought to Nigeria and are exported to other African countries from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos. This is because Lagos has the market in West Continued on page 22

Orakusi: African Maritime Industry Worth $1trn Annually Eromosele Abiodun The Chairman Ship Owners Forum, Mrs Margaret OnyemaOrakusi, has called on Nigeria and other African countries to harness their blue economy potential for the well-being of their citizens, stressing that the African maritime industry is already worth $1 trillion.

Orakusi made the disclosure during the 4th edition of the Lagos International Maritime Week with the theme: “Africa’s Blue Economy -Innovation Sustainability and Diversity,” held in Lagos.

She said with the right policies implemented, the figure could triple in just two years, adding that until recently, that the idea about

MARITIME development of blue economy in Africa was always ignored or underexploited.

“It is of this reason that development of Africa’s blue economy is included in the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and a practical handbook on the blue economy was prepared by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa in March 2016.”

Orakusi, said the blue economy was neglected in the passed without minding the fact that it could offer a range of solution to African economic.

“More than one-quarter of Africa’s population lives

within 100km of the coast and derive their livelihood there.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), by 2020, the annual economic value of energy activities belated to maritime affairs will reach EUR 2.5billion.

“Out of the 54 African countries, 34 are coastal countries and over 90 per cent of African export and import are transported by sea. The territorial waters under Africa jurisdiction cover a surface of 13 million km twice, with a continental shelf of some 6.5/ million km twice comprising Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), She said.

Orakusi, said that aquaculture was a key driver of the blue economy, which made it capable

of providing food, nutrition and employment opportunities to the people of Africa.

She explained further that since capture fisheries faced the problem of overfishing, the challenges of food security could be addressed through aquaculture production being the potential to transform the global food to system for better.

She listed some benefits of blue economy such as employment opportunities, improve inter and intra-regional coastal trade in Africa, development of critical infrastructure for fishing and aquaculture business, promotion of coastal shipping among others.

Also speaking, the Min-

TheNigerianAirspaceManagementAgency(NAMA)hastakendeliveryof consignmentsofequipmentforcategory3InstrumentLandingSystems/ DistanceMeasuringEquipment(ILS/DME)forLagosandAbujaairports.

Theconsignments,whichwereclearedrecentlyfromApapawharfare alreadyatthepremisesoftheagencyinLagos.

Speakingonthisdevelopment,theManagingDirectorofNAMA,Capt.Fola Akinkuotu,saidinstallationofthelandingaids,whichwouldcommence soon,waspartoftheagency’sefforttoensurethataircraftlandssafely inadverseweathercondition,especiallyduringtheharmattan.

He also revealed that the second phase of the project involving the installationofILS/DMEinKano,PortHarcourtandKatsinaairportswould commenceassoonasLagosandAbujainstallationswerecompleted, stressingthatthechoiceoftheseairportswasinformedbythesevere weatherconditionsprevalentinthem.

Also,inlinewiththeagency’scommitmenttowardsenhancingthequality of air traffic services in the country, NAMA has successfully split the LagosSub-FlightInformationRegion(Sub-FIR)airspaceintotwosectors: LagosWestAreaControlCentreon120.9MHzradiofrequencyandLagos EastAreaControlCentreon127.3MHzfrequency.

Thesectorizationwhichtookoffrecentlywasaculminationofatwo-year strategicplanbytheagencytoachievesectoredoperationsintheLagos sub-FIR owing to the then congested single radio frequency en-route controloperations.

Speakingtostakeholdersattheflag-offofthefacility,Akinkuotusaid althoughsectorisationofLagoshadeludedNAMAforover16years,ittook thecommitmentanddeterminationofstafftoseetoitsactualization.

HesaidsectorisingLagosbecameimperativeowingtotheincreasing volumeoftrafficandtheattendantchallengesposedtobothpilotsand airtrafficcontrollers.Hesaidinabidtoachievethisfeat,theagencyhad putinplaceseveralmeasurestoensureitseffectivetake-off.

Firm Gets Accreditation Certification

The Engineering Automation Technology Limited (EATECH) made historyduringtheweekbybecomingthefirstNigerianfirmtobagthe International Organisation for Standardization and the International ElectrotechnicalCommissionISO/IEC17025:2017accreditations.

Thecompanysaidtheaccreditationcameafteroneyearofpainstaking andrigoroussubjectionofthecompany’slaboratory,personnel,andallied facilitiestorigoroustestsandauditstoensuretheyfunctionandalign withstandardssetbytheAustralian-basedInternationalLaboratories AccreditationCooperation(ILAC).

Astatement,bytheNigerianNationalAccreditationService(NiNAS)on itswebsitelaudedthemanagementofEATECHformakingtherequisite investment to bag the accreditation, the first in the country, saying it would go a long way in boosting the quality of equipment calibrations inthecountry.

“The management and staff of NiNAS congratulates Engineering AutomationTechnology Limited laboratory on the attainment of this enviablefeat.ThisisapositiveprogressfortheNigerianeconomyand WestAfricanqualityinfrastructure,”NiNASsaid.

Managing Director/CEO of EATECH, Mr. Emmanuel Okon at a press conference in Lagos, recently, said attaining the accreditation would help the country save millions of dollars lost annually as capital flight in shipping critical and sensitive equipment in the aviation, oil and gas, and power sectors abroad for electrical, pressure, and temperature measurements.

Okonsaid,“Beforenow,thereisnolaboratorythatcalibratesaviation equipmentinNigeria,andyouknowhowcriticalitistogetit100percent rightwhenhandlingequipmentandmeasurementsinaviation;thereis usuallynoroomforerrors.

“Foryears,thebulkoftheseequipmentcalibrationsweredoneabroad, butwiththisaccreditation,wehaveprovidedthesolutionthatwillenable theaviationindustrycutdownoncapitalflightonequipmentcalibration doneabroad,andwehavealsocreatedanopportunityforjobsandhuman capitaldevelopmentforNigerians “WetookoveroneyeartogetthisISO/IEC17025:2017standardasthe firstlaboratorygloballyaccreditedtocarryoutpressure,temperature, and low voltage calibrations of equipment in Nigeria because we felt the need to invest in growing local content in the aviation, oil and gas, power,marine,andmanufacturingsectors.

“Andweareproudwiththeresponsesreceivedfrommultinationalfirms indicating interest and confidence to patronise us because results generated in Nigeria can now be recognized and accepted globally, “Okonadded.

“New strategies and development should make air transport safer, more secure, more efficient and more environmentally friendly and to ensure the growth and sustainability of the aviation industry globally” Minister of Aviation,

Senator Hadi Sirika Continued on page 22

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T H I S D AY Ëž SEPTEMBER 27, 2019

BUSINESSWORLD ‘EXPORT OF AGRICULTURE PRODUCE HAS INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY’ Africa,� Odika said.

However, Odika noted that the exporters still need to be educated and updated on how to improve the packaging of their produce to make it easy and acceptable when they reach the destination of the foreign consumers. “We want to work with exporters as part of our five-year transformation agenda; to work with exporters to look at their packaging styles to ensure that the standards and to educate them the more on how to improve packaging standards to make sure that they meet the right specifications. This will enable their goods meet the standards recommended when they get to their destination. “Now people get away with things like fruits, Mangos that are displayed in shops like Tesko, because you do not need packaging there; they are fruits that are left open and just a sticker on it. “Some items need proper packaging and you really have to meet the specifications in terms of the type of nylon to make sure that there is no poison or that the specifications of the nylon have no after effect, like cancerous hazards in it.

ORAKUSI: AFRICAN MARITIME INDUSTRY WORTH $1TRN ANNUALLY ister of State for Transport, Mrs Gbemisola Saraki, said Nigeria emerged the leader in the continent of Africa for the initiative in adopting and propagating the blue economy in Africa.

Saraki, who was represented by the Director, Administration and Human Resources of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Jumai Musa, said that Nigerians should improve on sustainable utilisation of the ocean, sea, lake, rivers and resources.

According to her, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr Dakuku Peterside, being the Chairman of the Association of African Maritime Administrations, had spearheaded the drive for the adoption of the blue economy.

She said that as a continent that the blue economy would have a wide standard for the management of marine resources.

NEWS

Bala-Usman: NPA Committed to Attracting Investments to Eastern Ports Stories by Eromosele Abiodun The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala-Usman, has stated that the authority is commitment to the optimal utilisation of the eastern ports in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration’s Ease of Doing Business policy.

She made this known when members of the House of Representatives Ad-hoc committee on Ports and Habours paid her a working visit in Lagos.

The NPA boss added that the management of the NPA was working with all relevant stakeholders towards tackling the challenges that hamper patronage of the ports.

She enumerated issues that discourage vessel owners from patronising the eastern ports to include: the level of insecurity on the waterways, shallow depths which hinder the movement of big vessels as well as the problems of poor access roads and rail linkages to ports in these areas.

On the issues of draught limitations, Bala-Usman, explained that following the approval of the contract by the Federal Executive Council last year, dredging works have been completed on moving the Warri channel draft to 7.5m while consultants have been engaged to advise on level of investments needed to improve the infrastructural capacity of the port in Port Harcourt.

While noting that the Onne Ports currently function at full capacity, the MD informed the meeting that the NPA has granted all requisite ap-

provals for the construction of the Lekki Deep Sea Port for which development has started. She said further that the authority was awaiting response from the promoters of the Badagry Deep Sea Port to enable conclusion on the final outline business case for the project.

She pointed out that the maritime industry was becoming more increasingly disposed to patronising deep sea ports which allows for big vessels and aid economies of scales.

She clarified that Nigeria would only assure its future

market share in the industry with the development of deep sea ports.

On security, she explained that the NPA is purchasing patrol boats and working with the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and the Port Police Command to combat crimes on the nation’s waterways and assured that progress was being made on this front.

Concerning Port access roads nationwide, Bala-Usman explained that the NPA has drawn a basket of such roads

across the country and written to the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing about the need to prioritise the rehabilitation of these roads.

She noted that the ministry has commenced implementation of this process with the recent award of the construction of Ikom Bridge, which is a key road connecting Cross River State to the North Eastern part of the country and expressed optimism that these steps would provide better linkages to the hinterland and attract more business to the Eastern Ports.

Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee, Hon. BubaYakub had earlier explained that the committee was on a fact finding mission on reasons why the eastern ports were not working as optimally as the western ports and how much that affects national development.

Yakub noted that this assignment would take his committee round all the ports and at the end of the day, generate a blueprint that would improve patronage at the eastern ports and prevent agitations from host communities.

SENSITISATION FORUM

L-R: Director, Compliance, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Mr. Obiora Manafa; Executive Chairman, Electronics Dealers Association of Nigeria (EDAN), Fabian Ezeorjika; Chairman, C. Ugo Industries, Chief Celestine Okpara, and Head, Surveillance Investigation / Monitoring, SON, Mr. Isa Suleiman, at the SON/EDAN one-day sensitisation on zero sub-standard trade held at Alaba International Market, Lagos ‌. recently PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

Jadesimi Urges Entrepreneurs to Create Business Models for Nigerian Market The Managing Director of Lagos Deep Offshore Logistic Base (LADOL), Dr. Amy Jadesimi has advised entrepreneurs to create new business models that would uniquely engineered the Nigerian market.

Jadesimi, who stated this as a keynote speaker at IE Business School’s Digital Venture Day held recently in Lagos, highlighted the importance of indigenous Nigerian private sector in creating the tens of millions of new jobs needed in Nigeria.

She exhorted the audience to use the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals as

a guide to identify business opportunities and build their businesses.

According to her, “We know from the 2016 report of the Business and Sustainable Development Commission, ‘Better Business Better World’ that a $12 trillion will be created if private sector pursued SDG aligned and inspired business opportunities. Much of this market will be in high growth, low income countries like Nigeria. “Our demographic dividend, our young people will drive global prosperity and peace, as our private sector grows. With the right

financing models and the intelligence, hard work, energy and ingenuity of Nigerian entrepreneurs within a decade Nigeria could be transformed. Sustainability equals profitability and the Nigerian market is the perfect environment for new economy business models to flourish.�

Jadesimi commended the CBN for its recent moves to increase financing flowing to the real private sector, but she said that more still needs to be done to encourage banks to support the real private sector. “Nigeria is the largest

underserved market in the world. To ensure that the private sector can focus on locally conceived, manufactured and deployed value added solutions we need to collaborate. “Sustainability involves building sharing economies and solutions, joint private sector lobbying of government and financial institutions. The indigenous Nigerian private sector has long been ignored by the global financing community but it is precisely these companies that will generate the highest returns, particularly if they are sustainable.

“LADOL is launching its circular economy next year, turning LADOL into a Sustainable Industrial Special Economic Zone. Part of the Zone will be dedicated to incubating and supporting Nigerian entrepreneurs, providing shared offices and workshops, as well as incubation services. “LADOL will be a platform supporting the creation of new economy sustainable businesses. Business that will deploy innovative solutions to today’s business opportunities from transport to agriculture and IT,� she added.

NLNG Vessel, LNG Kano Support Rescue at Gibraltar Strait Group Business Editor

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) James Emejo (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)

A Nigeria LNG Limited vessel, LNG Kano, recently supported the rescue of two persons who were missing around the Gibraltar strait.

According to the vessel’s manager, NLNG Ship Management Limited (NSML),on 24th August 2019, the vessel received a distress call that two persons were missing in the waters around the strait and their position was unknown.

The vessel’s manager stated that after keeping sharp look out at the vicinity

for an hour, the bridge team aboard LNG Kano sighted two persons holding on to a semisubmerged jetski floating on the water, about 6.9 nautical miles into the strait.

The crew immediately alerted the Spanish authorities then proceeded to raise emergency alarm and mobilised man-over-board manoeuvres where the rescue boat team was quickly assembled and prepared for launching.

NSML added that the crew of LNG Kano worked with Spanish search and rescue

organisations, keeping sight of the two persons until the rescue helicopter and boats reached them. “NLNG vessels have a track record of professionalism and show of care at sea. In June 2013, LNG Sokoto had rescued an ocean rower and adventurer who was on a TriFinance Ocean Challenge at the Indian Ocean, after his boat was run down by two tankers. “In October 2016, LNG Rivers rescued two French nationals and a distressed

sailing vessel at La Reunion Island. The distressed vessel had reportedly lost power, prompting a distress call to LNG Rivers by Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Australia. “LNG Rivers, on receipt of the message, immediately changed course and proceeded towards the location for rescue. “Also in 2019, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) recognised NLNG for its outstanding contributions

to the realisation of the agency’s mandate on safety on the waterways, especially the Bonny-Port Harcourt sea route which borders NLNG’s area of operation in Rivers State. “The company was involved in the rescue of 12 victims of a boat mishap on the Bonny Sea. NSML is a subsidiary of NLNG set up to oversee the resourcing, development and management of shipboard personnel for the other subsidiary of NLNG, Bonny Transport Gas (BGT) vessels, “he said.

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BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

Nigeria Receives ICAO’s Award on Aviation Security Chinedu Eze Nigeria was recently presented with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), known as “ICAO Council President’s Certificate”.

The award was given to the country because of its achievement and progress in solving aviation security and oversight deficiencies and its commitment to the effective implementation of ICAO Standards and recommended practices.

Presenting the certificate to the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, during the opening ceremony of the 40th Triennial Assembly of the International Civil Aviation organisation (ICAO) in Montreal, Canada, President of the ICAO Council, Dr Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu,

said the certificate was in recognition of the contribution of deserving member- states to the marked improvements in global aviation safety and security.

He said the recognition was meant to encourage the countries to do more, while spurring others to step up their own efforts in promoting the security and safety of their respective airspaces which will ultimately translate to better global aviation security standards.

Reacting to the award, Sirika expressed delight over the fact that the modest achievements recorded by Nigeria in the area of aviation security and oversight deficiencies has been recognised and applauded by the world aviation governing

body, saying that the recognition was a challenge to him and all the players in the nation’s aviation industry to do more.

He credited the achievements to the unwavering commitment and support of President Muhammadu Buhari to the transformation of the country’s aviation industry, noting that the government’s focus on safety and security since its inception had started yielding the desired results.

Sirika, commended the ICAO Council for monitoring and giving recognition to developments in member states and promised that Nigeria would remain committed to the ideals and objectives of the Organization.

The Council President’s Certificate was awarded to 16 out of 193 member nations.

Aligbe Commends FG’s Plan to Concession Airports Industry consultant and CEO of Belujane Konsult, Chris Aligbe has commended the plan by the federal government to concession major airports in the country.

According to him, the move would revitalise and develop Nigeria’s airport infrastructure.

Speaking at the 15th Akwaaba African Travel Market on Aviation Day, in Lagos, Aligbe said it was obvious that government does not have the money to develop and maintain airports in Nigeria, adding that currently, Nigeria cannot boast of a standard African airport, so the private sector should be made to inject funds in airport development through concession.

Aligbe, who joined others to discuss the topic ‘Impact of Airport development and airlines on tourism growth’, said government could establish a national carrier with not more than five percent equity in order to have a sovereign cover for it, but the best way to turn the airports in the nation around is by concessioning.

“In Nigeria we do not have an African standard airport

and if we don’t create it we may never have a headway.

Concessioning is mandatory for us, the labour unions may protest but that is the only solution.

“The decision to concession four international airports is the best decision because government does not have the money to invest in airports.

“We have a lot more complex situation than Ghana because of our peculiarity so we need to resort to concession, government cannot do it. the idea that concession would engender poor security situation is not to be an excuse.

“If we want to join the comity of developed aviation, we must take a step.

We have also not created the infrastructure and standard for tourism to grow, we cannot separate aviation from tourism, we need strong airlines and infrastructure for tourism to grow “, he said.

Speaking on the planned national carrier, Aligbe who lamented that the country had attempted to float national carrier 10 times without fruition, said there was still need to have a national carrier, advising that government

should not have full control over it like the defunct Nigeria Airways.

“Five percent equity is not enough for government to control the airline but enough for it to give it a sovereign cover”, he added.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of Africa World Airline (AWA), Sean Mendis has explained the reasons chose Accra, Ghana instead of Lagos, Nigeria as its operational hub in West Africa, despite the fact that the market is in Nigeria.

He said the Ghanaian government reduced all taxes and has created a friendly and enabling environment for aviation and general businesses to thrive, adding that the airline would not operate in a place where the charges are unbearable and weighing down airlines businesses.

Apart from the newly built terminal in Accra, which he described as world class, he said: ‘Ghana is reducing VAT on airlines and with the good terminal, it may not be as large as the one in Singapore, but it is a world class terminal. Ghana is more suitable and more business friendly for us to operate.

EgyptAir Announces 50% Discount in Business Class Egypt Air has announced that it has launched of up to 50 per cent discount on the Business class fares between Cairo and most of the airline’s international destinations.

The North African carrier said this was in line with the carrier’s plan to provide the optimum service for the best and competitive fares.

The airline offers premium business class product such as the Super Diamond Full Flat Bed seats on the Boeing Dreamliner B787-9 aircraft and Full Flat Bed on both the Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A330-300 aircraft.

Furthermore, as a way of identifying with Nigeria’s 59th Independence Anniversary, the

airline’s Country Manager in Nigeria, Mr. Muharram Abdulrahman, noted that Egypt Air would offer its Nigerian customers 50 per cent percent discount in Business Class for tickets issued between September 30 – October 7, 2019.

In another development, EgyptAir has announced an extension of its codeshare with United Airlines in an effort to extend its network in North America.

“Subject to the agreement, Egypt Air customers can now book their flights to Boston, San Francesco, Los Angeles and Chicago through Washington starting from September 12th 2019.

“Egypt Air is keen on expanding its network in North America especially after inaugurating the new non-stop service to Washington in June, providing integration for Egypt Air network,” said the airline’s Chairman and CEO, Capt. Ahmed Adel.

“Egypt Air customers can fly to the new destinations through Cairo to Washington flight on the airline’s newest Dreamliner B787-9 equipped with Super Diamond Full Flat Bed Seats in Business Class and personal screens in all classes.

The aircraft also provides Wi-Fi internet, roaming services and Live TV for a seamless travel experience,” he added.

Akwaaba Promotes Tourism

Kwara Hajj

L-R: Vice Chairman, SAHCO Plc, Chike Ogeah; Africa World Airlines, COO, Sean Mendis; Organiser, 15th Akwaaba African Travel Market, Mr Ikechi Uko; Director of Government, Legal and Industry Affairs, African Airlines Association (AFRAA), Aaron Munetsi, and Managing Director, Belujane Konsult, Mr Chris Aligbe, at the Akwaaba event held in Lagos...recently

Chinedu Eze

The Akwaaba African Travel Market has become a melting pot for travel, tourism organisations as well as airlines.

Akwaaba brings together government agencies and businesses from different nations in Africa and beyond. They meet in Lagos every year to showcase their businesses, set agenda and exchange contacts at a very flexible interactive environment.

Every year the meeting gets better and better and becomes more exciting.

The result of the meeting has remained invaluable because it boosts the business of exhibitors, presenters and it provides the rendezvous for countries like The Gambia, Uganda, Ghana, Cameroon, Kenya, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and many others to let the rest of Africa know the huge tourism destinations and other attractions they have in their countries.

At the 15th Akwaaba African Travel Market in 2019, held recently, the Caribbean came to show their African heritage and for them, it was nostalgic coming home.

Dubai Tourism took a large memorable section of the venue at Eko Hotel and Suites Convention Centre, where they attracted the endless stream of visitors and the Lagos state government, which has been successfully promoting its tourism sector, held visitors spellbound with its cultural exhibition.

On Tuesday during the Aviation Day a lot of brainstorming took place.

In a presentation by the Africa Airlines Association (AFRAA), Director of Government, Legal and Industry Affairs, Aaron Munetsi, got industry stakeholders to put on their thinking caps.

He explained challenges besetting air transport in Africa. These include the unwillingness of states to open their airspace to other African airlines and high charges levelled on airlines, which tend to discourage people from travelling. Because of this, the industry is not growing rapidly as it does in other regions.

The hard fact too, as he noted is that 80 per cent of passenger traffic is handled by foreign airlines or international carriers outside Africa.

Munetsi regretted that African nations are yet to take advantage of Single African Air Travel Market (SAATM).

Presenting a paper on the, ‘Impact of Airport Development and Airlines on Tourism Growth,’ Munetsi noted that in comparison to Africa’s population of about 1.2 billion people, only insignificant percentage of this people travel by air because

the region is yet to take advantage of its huge potential in tourism and internal trade, which could further inspire travelling by air.

He also disclosed that many countries in Africa record low passenger traffic, adding that only Morocco and South Africa could boast of high traffic in 2017 of over 10 million passengers, from tourism, which is still very low when compared to what the region should be getting when there is full cooperation among Africans and liberalisation of air transportation in the continent.

“During this period (2016-17), only Morocco and South Africa realised more than 10 million passenger traffic each.

“In terms of revenue for international tourism in 2016, Africa realised $36.2 billion and the top 10 table for 2017 tourism revenue shows that Morocco leads with $11.3 million while South Africa follows closely with $10.3 million but do you know how many passenger pass through Dubai in just a week?

“The reality is that we have a long way to go. Only 19 percent of African trade is done within Africa while we are trading away 81 per cent to foreigners, Africa should wake up or else, the European countries will continue to grow from what they take from here. “Now, it is not because we don’t have what it takes, it is because we don’t do what it takes, we have to embrace the change that is here, SAATM is the bedrock of African trade with each other, SAATM will help us; 26 countries have signed, we are looking forward to the day others will follow suit.

“It is sad today that only 16 countries in Africa have facilities for Visa on arrival, I don’t know why we should not open up our countries to enhance tourism, trade and revenue”, he said.

Speaking to THISDAY on the first day of the event, the Nigerian General Manager of Ethiopia Airlines, Firiehiwot Mekonnnen, said that the East African carrier has been partnering with Akwaaba over the years and has reaped immense benefit from the partnership.

“There are a lot of activities going on here, a lot of cultural exchange which is very interesting and important because we need that cultural exchange to boost our economy.

“So these are the kind of things that we need to promote in Africa.

Akwaaba is one of the platforms we always use to promote Ethiopia as a destination and as an airline. We are one of the major sponsors and on the Aviation Day; Ethiopian Airlines will host the dinner as Ethiopian Day. So people will enjoy the Ethiopian food, coffee ceremony,” she said.

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T H I S D AY Ëž Í°ÍľËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

Adama: Only Nigerian-owned Businesses Were Destroyed in South Africa Nigerian Consul General in Johannesburg, Godwin Adama, in this interview speaks about how Nigerian businesses were destroyed by xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

He spoke with Chinedu Eze before the recent evacuation of Nigerians. Excerpts:

H

ow many Nigerians want to go back to their country?

I came in this morning with the Nigerians that are voluntarily returning from South Africa after the experiences they have had in the past years, particularly the very recent experience of the destruction of their property, looting of their property and everything. A number of them, as you will see them later, they are excited, they want to go back, feel like they can do something in Nigeria better than what they are doing here.

Can you please conďŹ rm to us the total numbers of Nigerians that were ready to go back?

As of the last compilation we had about 900 Nigerians, we are still registering. So, we are looking at over a 1000 now that may have reported at the embassy to document themselves.

Can you tell us probably the number of the casualties that we have; that is the number of those killed?

Talking of foreigners generally, we have within the period lost about two persons but we have not lost a Nigerian during these latest incidents. We have not lost any Nigerians because what happened was more of an attack and destruction of the properties of the Nigerians and other foreigners. But of course we are most hit, particularly in a street they called Juli Street in JPs Town, which is a Central Business District (CBD) of Johannesburg, where our people are many. I have gone through that street, it is a very long street and Nigerians have very big shops, car marts. I could see over 100 to 200 cars burnt in that particular incident. So in case of casualties of death during this time of latest incident; aside from some people we have lost in the past; maybe police brutality and others, we have not lost a Nigerian within this period and we are happy with that. We thank God for that. But bad enough, we have lost a lot of things.

Has the mission reached out to the South Africa government about this whole thing in order to ensure this does not happen in future? Has the mission engaged the government on this?

Of course we are engaging the South African government, the Minister of Foreign Affairs here. We have met with the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa. We met with the Ministers along with other African Ambassadors and they were quite apologetic about what happened. They tried to move relations forward.

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation did explain things and also sought comments from us and urged for cooperation from the various African missions and also asked for inputs on what could be done to ensure that these things do not happen again. The African Ambassadors at various levels condemned the xenophobic attacks. But the South African authorities tried to say that what happened was not Xenophobia attacks. They described it as it is criminality and what you see is that if you have criminality. But there is way to deal with criminality. You deal with criminality as criminality. Crime is not peculiar to any country. Whatever person is involved with crime deal with him in crime and even us, as a government in Nigeria, we also help you to deal with the issues of crime if you bring us in.

A Nigerian, an individual (Allen Onyema) made his flight available for free as part of

Adama

his contribution to solving the challenges on ground. Of course, I know that our government is fully in favour of what is going on so that, at least, our people who are still stranded there, our people who have lost their property, our people who are challenged in various ways by the policies that confront them here will find their way home. They have an opportunity to be part of this laudable initiative that Barrister Onyema has brought up. I think he is a wonderful Nigerian and one of the greatest I have seen doing this kind of thing. We are very appreciative of what he is doing and we know that we would give him all the necessary cooperation to

Nigerians in South Africa were so much encouraged by the attitude and prompt response of the Nigerian government to the issue. According to them, they have not seen it that way and they are excited about going to be able to see how they can start a new life

ensure that we have a successful and hitch free operation.

What is the reason for this attack on Nigerians, as indications show that Nigerians are the focus?

We have what is called Xenophobia and the issue here again is that there are perceptions; negative perceptions and some of these are based on things I cannot really understand. For instance, this country has high rate of crime. For instance, if you go on the internet today and check, not less than 50 people are murdered in South Africa in one day. That is the statistics you would see on the internet. They have about 20,000 murder cases in a year. So when you hear the number of killings you will see that it is a very volatile society. But we are concerned because sometimes it is as result of police brutality, which we have noticed and we have taken up and condemned and do not agree with it. But sometimes too such murders could be as result of being in a place where crime has taken place or you are killed because somebody wants to take something from you forcefully and you resist you are dead man. Generally, there is this feeling of insecurity as a whole in this country. Where you live in this country, where you stay, who you associate with and what you do matter a lot. You need to keep yourself save if not, something is permitted to happen. The country generally has a high rate of crime; one of the highest in the world and it is part of the thing we are going through.

I understand you must have put in place huge logistics to achieve this evacuation; what are the challenges you must have faced?

Yes, we have put in a lot of logistics to achieve these with the assistance of the Minister of Foreign Affairs at home, who has given us all the necessary cooperation even though things are tight but because of the nature of this operation we are ready to

put in everything to make it succeed. Part of the challenges of course is finance. It is a challenge but I know eventually we would be assisted to be able to complete it. But we are making everything possible within the limit of our resources to ensure that we embark on it, whether it is personal or whatever to make sure it goes. Some of the challenges we faced were proper documentation of Nigerians; sometimes we had to develop a structure that we would be able to do the database. Sometimes, deliberately, people do not feel fine, so we kept moving. For instance, I sent a manifest of the aircraft since the previous day and the following day, we were calling individuals one after the other to ensure that they will be on the flight. So we got these challenges, we also got the challenges of women who want to go back to Nigeria. These women felt they must leave this country because they were being maltreated by their husbands who brought them to South Africa. Bringing them here, the situation became bad for them because of the way their husbands were treating them.

But the challenge we have in that area is that, the husbands would turn around and start accusing us of wanting to take their wives back to Nigeria without their consent.

So we now demanded for consent letters and data pages of their passport to be able to accept any lady with children who the husbands are not travelling with. These are part of the challenges that we faced and of course, many have come from certain areas of this country; they do not have where to stay, they do not have resources to get themselves into hotel. I have accommodated a number of them from time to time even till up this morning. Nigerians in South Africa were so much encouraged by the attitude and prompt response of the Nigerian government to the issue. According to them, they have not seen it that way and they are excited about going to be able to see how they can start a new life. Some of them, if you interview them, they will tell you; nobody is angry they are just going home.

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T H I S D AY Ëž Í°ÍľËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

As MAN Breathes Again Eromosele Abiodun writes that the Maritime Academy of Nigeria that was brought to its knees by mismanagement and corruption, has regained its lost glory with cadets and marine engineering students now members of Nautical Institute and IMAREST, United Kingdom

Minister Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi

F

ormerly known as the Nautical College of Nigeria, the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, Akwa Ibom State was established in 1979 by the Federal Executive Council No.EC. (77) 172. It was designed as an integrated institution for the education and training of shipboard officers, ratings and shore-based management personnel.

The Academy graduated its first batch of Cadets in 1983. In 1988, the scope of the college was upgraded by the promulgation Decree No. 16 of 1988 with a statutory mandate to train all levels and categories of personnel required for the effective and efficient operation of all facets of the Nigerian Maritime Industry.

However, like most institutions in Nigeria, several years of mismanagement and massive corruption brought the once enviable institution to its knees.

It got so bad at a point that the institution’s debt rose to N7.2 billion, ranging from staff claims to payments for various contract of which some have been completed and ongoing projects.

At the time, the campus of the academy was littered with unfinished jobs while basic teaching and learning infrastructures were lacking.

Some members of staff of the academy were involved in contract racketeering which accounted for the many sub-standard implementation.

Also, essential facilities like the nautical science building, survival pool, main auditorium, male cadets hostel, engineering workshop, boatyard and many others were abandoned.

It got so bad that some students of the academy were forced to either sleep outside or in the classrooms because hostel accommodation meant for only eight students per room were overstretched with more than 17 students in each hostel room.

This was despite the fact that aside its budgetary allocation and its internally generated revenue from short courses, the academy is also entitled to five per cent of total revenue collected by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) as provided in sub section 2b, sub section 16 of the NIMASA Act 2007.

FG Steps in However, in a bid to prevent a total collapse of the institution, the federal government on September 5, 2017, set up an interim management committee to revamp the institution and restore its lost glory.

The Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, who inaugurated the interim management committee in Abuja, said the level of decay at the MAN was shameful and that he wanted to be remembered as the minister that fixed the rot. The committee was at the institution for a period of six months after

Eedua

which Commodore Duja Effedua (rtd) stepped in as the substantive rector of the academy.

It has been two years since Effedua became rector and the institution has witnessed massive transformation with 98 per cent of its infrastructure and equipment is now in place. All these were achieved without bank facility.

When THISDAY visited the institution to investigate the situation of things, it was a marvel to behold. As a matter of fact, right from the road leading to the academy and the main gate, the therapeutic ambience, cleanliness and serenity of the environment and the soothing breeze sweeping across the length and breadth of the academy were obvious that something new has been caused to happen.

But it was actually the facility tour that vindicated this initial impression. It was sooner discovered that the transformation in the academy goes beyond the neatly-cutting of grasses and painting of structures to that of infrastructural renaissance as seen in the renovation, refurbishing or remodelling of projects to meet expedient needs, completion of projects abandoned for decades, construction of new ones as necessity demands, and general facelift that creates an infectious conducive atmosphere for work and academic activities.

It is not just infrastructure and equipment that have been put in place, books and computers and smart boards for teaching have also been provided. Under the new management, there is a deliberate regime of emphasis on quality of students above quantity. To this end, cadet intake that used to be 1,800 has been reduced to 256 for the 2018/2019 academic session.

For effective and cost saving academic time management, Effedua said cadets are now enjoying free mandatory courses with newly introduced onboard seatime training for National Diploma cadets.

He said he had ensured all cadets and enrolling nautical science students as members of Nautical Institute, United Kingdom while marine engineering students are also members of Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMAREST) also of UK. A New Dawn As part of drive to address infrastructural challenges and provide conducive accommodation for cadets and staff, the academy within 18 months has completed projects which were hitherto abandoned. The completed projects were recently commissioned by the Minister of Transportation, Amaechi.

Some of the projects include a nautical science building that was abandoned for close to 15 years at foundation level, now completed and ready for use. What looked like a makeshift library being used with outdated literatures has been rebuilt with up-to-date reading materials in addition to high quality free books given to cadets. A

modern lecturers briefing room and state of the art lecture theatres fitted with teaching and learning aids has also been put in place.

As part of finding solutions to the problems he inherited, Effedua said: �I met a huge debt profile which I inherited from a regime that had so much funds and I wondered why they didn’t pay. I have paid over 80 per cent of genuine claims brought forward to me. I plugged areas of revenue leakages by avoiding payment of suspected fraudulent claims. It will interest you to know that after referring such claims to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), some of those making the claims never showed up again.�

He added: “In the past, funds were not properly channelled for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). It ended in private pockets and I came in and stopped this. We don’t give money to individuals. This is part of why I am not popular with those who benefited from that kind of CSR. We provided computers to the Oron based Methodist Secondary School.

What we did for them is above the standard in many universities around. “This year, we bought 100 Joint Admission and Matriculation Boards (JAMB) forms for indigent students. We are going to buy for 200 students next year. The local hospital requests for 50 litre of diesel from pregnant women coming for delivery. The academy on my watch, intervened has been providing free diesel to the hospital. “I set up a CSR Committee from the academy that has donated chairs and desks to Methodist High School and Mary Hanney Primary School. We discovered that these schools were lacking sitting furniture “Eighty per cent of staff were from the host community in defiance to Federal Character principle and I wondered why no one saw this, including the maritime press. We have no intention to sack them from work but we shall continue to systematically recruit from other parts of the country to achieve some balance in future.� “Oron people are peaceful and accommodating only a few of them gave us challenge.

When I came newly, they recruited few women to picket the academy. The women themselves didn’t know why they were picketing our school. Another group of trouble makers brought a casket to our gate as part of protests. They also fell big trees to block the access road into the community. In the face of this harassment, we were determined to do our work.

Effedua added that the academy’s funding has improved and commended the timely release of funds by NIMASA. According to him, paperwork sometimes delays release of the funds and the academy ends up not getting four quarter collections as expected yearly.

Between January and September 2019,

he said the academy has trained over 3000 students from international oil companies (IOCs) including Mobil.

This, he stated, has greatly improved the academy’s internally generated revenue (IGR). “We need more funding but we are not broke. We have saved money from our IGR with which we want to use to buy more simulators without any form of external financial support,� he said.

Financial Prudence He added: “We had to carry out a financial audit of the Academy to know where we are and how much we truly owe. We are almost done with that and most of our former contractors who did genuine jobs have been paid. “However, in the cause of the audit, we have seen more than 30 per cent non-existent contracts where contractors were filing in request for payment. We have already taken the matter to the EFCC and the ICPC. They are looking for these contractors now because most of them have disappeared into thin air. “One contractor came and submitted a debt bill of N51million to me, which the academy is yet to pay him. When I called my procurement people, they said he didn’t do the job. So I called him in, engaged him in a discussion while we were being videoed.

After the meeting, I asked him to come back the next day for an enlarged meeting with the EFCC and the ICPC. We are yet to see him till date. “Through the audit, we have been able to block all revenue leakages, and that is why we were able to single-handedly finance our soon-to-arrive simulator and complete many abandoned projects without any funding from anywhere aside our statutory allocation that comes in from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency.�

On certificates issued by the academy, the rector revealed that due to the proliferation of the academy’s certificate by fraudsters, the academy has introduced a new certificate which has security features and are very difficult to forge.

On the issue of power supply and transportation, he acknowledged a challenge in that regard, noting that “we have been able to buy new buses for movement of students and staff. All new buses are to be only used for official purposes. “In the area of power supply, we have bought two 250KVA generators because there is no power supply in Oron. In the area of cutting of weeds to avoid dangerous reptiles like snakes and others, I was told on resumption that the academy pays N200,000 to clear weeds.

I had to buy two machines that clears the entire weeds in the academy within one or two days because I cannot pay N200,000 to some people to clear weeds.�

26

T H I S D AY ˾ SEPTEMBER 27, 2019

BUSINESSWORLD

PERSPECTIVE

Supporting Economic Diversification through Agric Intervention Donatus Nwamezirihe writes on the Central Bank of Nigeria’s development finance initiative to support the country’s drive to raise productivity in the agriculture sector

I

n order to develop other sources of revenue as well as to protect the economy from perennial shocks occasioned by the drop in crude oil prices, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), through its Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) has continued to support operators in the agricultural sector.

The programme, a development finance initiative, is aimed at supporting economic diversification in the country as well as to enhance job creation and help preserve forex.

Globally, agriculture has been recognised as a key catalyst for creating jobs, reducing unemployment and driving growth in Nigeria.

With the country blessed with favourable climatic conditions, vast arable land and fertile soils, the significant role agriculture should play in the nation’s quest to achieve sustainable development has never been doubt.

This potential was one of the reasons why President Muhammadu Buhari recently disclosed plan by the country to stop providing foreign exchange for importation of food into the country.

A statement by a presidential spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, had quoted Buhari as saying the foreign reserves would be conserved and utilised strictly for diversification of the economy, and not for encouraging more dependence on foreign food.

“Don’t give a cent to anybody to import food into the country,’’ he said.

According to the president, some states like Kebbi, Ogun, Lagos, Jigawa, Ebonyi and Kano, have taken advantage of the federal government’s policy on agriculture with huge returns in rice farming.

He, therefore, urged more states to embrace the ongoing revolution in agriculture to feed the nation.

“We have achieved food security, and for physical security we are not doing badly,’’ he said.

Indeed, the CBN through its Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme (CACS) as well as the ABP has continued to support genuine local rice manufacturers, in line with its development finance function.

The ABP programme was designed to assist small scale farmers to increase the production and supply of feedstock to agro-processors.

The programme is an initiative of the central bank aimed at creating an ecosystem to link out-growers (small holder farmers) to local processors, increase banks’ financing to the agricultural sector enhance capacity utilisation of agricultural firms involved in the production of identified commodities and as well as the productivity and incomes of farmers.

There are reports that it has reduced the level of poverty among small holder farmers and improved jobs creation, while assisting rural small-holder farmers to grow from subsistence to commercial production levels.

The programme was hinged on three pronged approach namely the out-grower support programme; training of farmers, extension workers and banks; and risk mitigation.

The ABP was also one of the reasons why the non-oil sector’s contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product figures released recently improved. The ABP is currently operational in about 26 states.

Earlier this year, while appraising the economic diversification actions of the CBN, the Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, said the programme has enabled agro-processors and manufacturers to source their inputs from local sources, rather than relying on the importation of these items in the face of pressures on the nation’s foreign exchange resources.

Emefiele

Consequently, the apex bank has rolled out a new policy to end reliance of the nation’s dairy industry on foreign inputs, just as it assured that the apex bank was ready to provide loans for those who want to go into cattle business.

He had warned that Nigeria could no longer continue to spend between $1.2$1.5 billion on milk importation, annually.

“That is a very high import product into the country, given that it’s a product that we are convinced can be produced in the country. Cows produce little milk due to roaming.

“Let’s ask ourselves the question: What really does it take to produce milk? Get the cow and give the cow plenty of water to drink and let the cow eat a lot of grass and the cow positioned in a place without roaming about, that cow gets fat and you

Nearly all countries started off poor, and only a handful have achieved high-income status. However, the ones that achieved it started with agriculture and went through an economic transformation that accelerated growth and reduced hunger and undernutrition

can take milk out of it.

“We called in the management of the oldest milk company in Nigeria to Central Bank office in Lagos. We held at least three meetings with them. We told them that we were trying to use the opportunity to appeal to them to do backward integration. Integrate backward and begin the process of development and production of milk in Nigeria.

“Unfortunately, after three years, nothing has happened. Three weeks ago, we had another meeting, where we said we need to take stock of what you guys are doing because we can no longer continue to spend close to $1.2 to $1.5 billion importing milk to the country, a product we can produce.

“To some extent, they should help us also to reduce the rate of herder/ farmer conflict. Perhaps, if they had started this journey three years ago with us, the herders/ farmers conflict that we see today would not have been as intense as it is this time. Our policies must be respected.”

This shows that contrary to the allegation that it was backing the proposed RUGA project, the apex bank had started the push for domestication of the nation’s dairy industry with the support to pastoralists over three years before the RUGA controversy.

It is believed that the policy, if well implemented, would support the domestication of the dairy industry, especially as regards ranching of pastoralists for effective milk production, while saving farmlands and agriculture sector perennial attacks.

Similarly, the central bank is now directing attention to growing protein content in the agriculture sector by directing attention to cattle ranching and poultry farming.

The CBN’s commitment to supporting cattle and poultry farmers is being done with the aim of improving protein availability in the nation’s food chain.

The CBN chief, while announcing a new policy to end milk imports into the country, assured that the bank was ready to provide loans for those who want to go

into the cattle business.

He insisted that Nigeria has what it takes to produce milk, assuring that the CBN was ready to give loans to those interested in ranching and other businesses in the livestock value chain.

Indeed, one of the central goals of every developing country is to reach high-income status and agriculture plays a critical role in transforming economies to reach such goal, along with achieving other essential development goals like ensuring food security and improving nutrition.

According to the Dean of the Institute of New Structural Economics and Professor at Peking University, Justin Yifu Lin, in order for any nation to end hunger and undernutrition while accelerating economic growth, agricultural transformation must become a reality.

“Nearly all countries started off poor, and only a handful have achieved highincome status. However, the ones that achieved it started with agriculture and went through an economic transformation that accelerated growth and reduced hunger and undernutrition.

The President, Federation of Agricultural Commodities Association of Nigeria (FACAN), Dr. Victor Iyama, said farming and ranching should be promoted as staples of the nation’s economy, saying government should support excellence in food safety and sustainability and lay the foundation for the nation to an emerging centre for all aspects of agribusiness.

He said the government must support innovations around crop sciences and livestock to create business opportunities, adding that agribusiness is a key sector that supports growth and diversification.

Iyama commended Emefiele for his support through the ABP to make the nation’s agriculture and food system a key driver of the country’s economic growth, saying the gesture will help the sector grow trade, advance innovation, while maintaining and strengthening public confidence in the food system, and increase its diversity.

He commended the CBN’s policy of providing loans for those who want to go into the cattle business, underscoring the readiness of FACAN to work with the CBN to develop a partnership that will benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including producers, processors, indigenous communities, women, youth, and small and emerging sectors to focus on the issues that matter most to them.

He said farmers are interested in partnership that deliver programmess that help them grow their businesses through research, marketing and operational support, and protect their livelihoods through risk management programmes.

The CBN boss has assured that the bank was ready to provide loans for those who want to go into the cattle business. He told milk importers that the bank was ready to advence credit to them whenever they were ready for backward integration.

He said: “By the time we restrict you, if you need a loan to acquire land we’ll give you. If you need a loan to grow your grass, we will give you. To produce water, we will give you a loan. But that you will continue to import milk into the country, I think we are getting to the end of the road. I will repeat, we are really getting to the end of the road,“stressing that the nation could no longer continue to spend between $1.2-$1.5 on milk importation, annually. He said that the nation has the capacity to produce its milk requirements and that the CBN was ready to give loans to those interested in ranching and other businesses in the livestock value chain farm produce in the country.

THIS WEEKEND WEEKLY MAGAZINE

Stephanie Obi: Helping Africans Monetise their Knowledge

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

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COVER STEPHANIE OBI: HELPING AFRICANS MONETISE THEIR KNOWLEDGE

Stephanie Obi is a tech entrepreneur and founderTrainQuarters, a multipurpose online course creation platform.

The techie with a First Class degree in Computer Science from Covenant University, has helped hundreds of female entrepreneurs across the world to build their online courses, enabling them earn extra stream of income by turning their skills, knowledge and expertise into profitable online courses while generating up to tens of millions in revenue. In this interview with MARY NNAH, the Amazon bestselling author of the book, “Knowledge is the New Gold�, and frequent speaker across corporates platforms, TV and radio stations; shared her successes, challenges and love for the tech world

S

tephanie Obi, is a tech entrepreneur and founder Trainquarters, a multipurpose online course creationplatform. She is a techie with a First Class degree in Computer Science from Covenant University who has helped hundreds of female entrepreneurs across the world to build their online courses, enabling them earn extra stream of income by turning their skills, knowledge and expertise into profitable online courses while generating up to tens of millions in revenue. She is an Amazon Bestselling author of the book, “Knowledge is the New Gold�. She is a frequent speaker across corporates platforms, on TV and radio stations. In this interview with MARY NNAH, she talks about ventures

You recently launched Africa’s ďŹ rst all-in-one online course creation tech platform called TrainQuarters. Tell how you came up with the idea?

I was tired of seeing Africans struggle with monetizing their knowledge online, so I created a solution that is appropriate for Africans across the continent. We decided to launch TrainQuarters because we saw that a lot of women were struggling with the techie part of launching their courses online. TrainQuarters helps people create and market online courses, build websites, online communities and more, so that they can easily monetize their knowledge. I have helped over 200 women to turn their knowledge, skills and expertise into online courses. These women have got millions of naira from monetizing their knowledge online. It started a few years ago when I used to be an accessories designer. I was very good at it. I even stated a business selling Ankara accessories. I did it for a while and it became a source of extra stream of income for me. And then I got to a point where I decided to teach. I felt like sharing my knowledge with other people. It was not enough to just make accessories for people to use because people were asking for advices and I wanted to be able to share my ideas.

So I launched my very first workshop at my father’s garage. I was so excited about it and I told everybody I knew that I was going to hold a workshop. And when the day of the workshop came, nobody turned up. It was just me and my empty chairs.

So, as you can imagine, I cried and cried. I felt so embarrassed. I thought that people always wanted me to share my ideas so how come they were not here. I decided to start marketing my training online and at that time, we just had Facebook and Twitter. Then I thought social media was a façade and will soon fade off, yet I started marketing training online and to my amazement people from other cities started asking for the classes.

The thing is, I am a Techie; I got a First Class graduate in Computer Science from Covenant University, so to do certain things do not prove difficult for me. So, when I launched my first online course, I didn’t think it was a big deal to me. I just did it and it became a success. But

L-R: President of the GEMSTONE Nation Builders Foundation, Fela Durotoye; Founder of TrainQuarters Stephanie Obi and Founder of House of Tara International, Tara Fela Durotoye at the TrainQuarters Launch Party in Lagos

building a website, email list, blogpost hosting and more, the platform contains everything you need to launch an online course. TrainQuarters has designed an all-in-one platform and make it easy for Africans to monetize their knowledge online. It helps them to create online schools, it helps them to post their videos and online courses; it helps them to nurture their email community, it helps them to build websites and to receive payment for their online courses.

What does it takes to subscribe?

If you visit www.trainquarters.com you would see a place to subtribe. It is very easy to use. Just put your name and e-mail address and the open an account.

You have a free trial for the first 30 days.

After 30 days you then pay $79 dollars per month.

Obi

for other women, I saw that they were struggling with how they would first of all build their websites, how they would build their online school, and many other things. And learning each of these things was like a headache for them. Let’s not forget that they also have to deal with their children and family needs and so it will take them a longer time to launch their online schools. Or sometimes they were even so discouraged to carry on. And that is why we launched the TrainQuarters.

How exactly does TrainQuarters works?

TrainQuarters is a first of its kind, onestop digital platform built to help Africans from different sectors of the economy to monetize their knowledge. From creating, marketing and selling online courses to

What advantage does Train Quarters has over other similar platforms?

After working with over 200 women to create their online courses, we noticed a trend - The Tech! The tech is very scary. It is overwhelming and many times people feel stuck and disappointed. Many of them wanted to impact lives but they gave up because of the tech. We saw them struggling which was hard to watch so we decided to help them make it easier; from creating, marketing and selling courses to building a website, email list, blogpost hosting, while taking away the stress and extra costs of going through a time consuming process, the platform contains everything needed to launch an online course. The all-in-one platform grants you access to online courses at a discounted rate - rather than paying for different platforms - along with the assistance of the

support team to enlighten and guide you through the process.

The beauty of this is, you don’t need to be tech-savvy to use the platform. The platform we have built is poised to tackle a lot of challenges that subscribers face with other platforms. For example, it is difficult for people to receive their payment when they use other platforms but with our platform, we have collaborated African payment platforms. So if you are a Nigerian you can easily receive your payment because you are now working with African stakeholders. Also, in other platforms, people can easily copy your videos but on our platform, no body copies your videos without an authorized password.

So whilst the platform was created with different plans for those who wish to teach their knowledge and expertise online, it also allows users to create and own their own websites, grow their online community as well as offers a simplified payment method. More so, the all-in-one platform grants you access to online courses at a discounted rate - rather than paying for different platforms - along with the assistance of the support team to enlighten and guide you through the process.

As a tech expert, how far is the country fairing in terms of technology?

We are definitely on a journey, we are not yet there but I guess that when there we have access to the internet, there is demand for tech things that you see in other countries. I think that there is also upraise of tech experts and platforms that are trying to solve national problems.

So, although we are not yet there, we are coming.

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NEWS

Manufacturer Raises Alarm Over Proliferation of Fake X-Pression Products in Nigerian Market Stories by Mary Nnah Solpia Nigeria Limited, manufacturer of the X-Pression brand of hair attachments and weave-on, has expressed concern over the increasingly proliferation of fake X-Pression hair products in the Nigeria market.

They lamented that the activities of these illegitimate operators who produce the fake products have not only affected the company negatively in terms of loss of revenue but have also eroded the brand’s image, resulting in consumers’ loss of confidence in genuine X-Pression products.

Speaking at its corporate headquarters in Agege, Lagos, during a press conference to intimate the public on the existence of fake X-Pression products in the market, Sales Manager, Solpia Nigeria, Mr. Shola Oduwole, said the presence of the fake operators has caused adverse effects on the company.

He said, “The issue of fake has proved little more difficult to handle due to the fact that they are not legitimate businesses entities with proper registered addresses; they operate in secrecy, sometimes under the cover of the night and they are of various kinds and sources and operate independent of one another.�

Oduwole who said his company is more concerned about the adverse effect of fake products on consumers, lamented that the activities of fake operators have caused his company loss of funds as a result of the purchase of the fake X-pression products by unsuspicious consumers, thereby causing customers’

L-R: Marketing Manager, Solpia Nigeria, Mrs. Grace Ejikeme; Sales Manager, Mr. Shola Oduwole; company’s Secretary / Lawyer, Prince Azubuike Onyekwelu and Assistant Marketing Manager, Ihedioha Okechukwu during the briefing

dissatisfaction.

He added that most importantly was the health hazards some of these fake X-Pression braids pose to the users.

Collaborating, the Assistant Marketing Manager, Ihedioha Okechukwu, said the presence of fake X-Pression hair products in the market portends grave danger to the company and its teaming consumers across the globe who have put their confidence in the genuine XPression brand. “The X-Pression brand is the number one in synthetic hair extension, not just in Nigeria but across the globe where our braids such X-Pression Ultra Braid, X-Pression Rich Braid and X-Pression Super Braid have remained dominant in the market. “This dominance has however become somewhat a blessing and also a source of concern for us. Indeed, the global market popularity of X-Pression brand has birthed a new challenge for our company; it has made our X-Pression products very attrac-

tive to fakers both from within Nigeria and abroad, especially in China�, Okechukwu added.

While educating the public on how not to fall victim to fake X-Pression, the Marketing Manager, Mrs. Grace Ejikeme said most of these fake products can easily be identified by observing certain abnormalities on the packaging. Ejikeme stressed that some unscrupulous and greedy businessmen were responsible for importing fake and substandard X-Pression products into the country and distributing them across markets in the country. She further stated that while Solpia Nigeria works in conjunction with relevant government agencies in Nigeria and China, the country where the fake products are originating, to get the source of these fakes and bring the perpetrators to book, it was intrinsic that they warn the general public about the existence of the fakes and the dangers they portend to the users. The company’s Secretary / Lawyer, Prince Azubuike Onyekwelu revealed further that

the fake operators’ activities has also affected employment in the company as thousands of workers have been sacked in recent times due to low sales and low productivity while the fakers have taken over the market with heap fake substandard products.

He said further that this has resulted in low sales of the genuine X-Pression products, forcing the company to reduce its production capacity thus causing workers dismissal.

Onyekwelu expressed worries that, Solpia Nigeria, which has two factories in Lagos and a very large workforce might still layoff more workers if something urgent is not done about the present situation by relevant authorities in Nigeria.

While advising all users of all X-Pression products to beware of the fakes, he noted that the fake X-Pression braids are made with low quality Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) fibre and other substandard materials, which are harmful to the scalp due to the existence of chemical residue on the fibre.

Rotary Club, Geeta Ashram Conduct Over 600 Free Eye Surgeries in Kano In Nigeria, millions of people suffer with full or partial blindness due to Cataract for long.

Cataract can be operated on and eye sight restored. However, limited facilities and the prohibitive costs force many poor Nigerians to suffer and wait forever to see the world around them.

Geeta Ashram, an Indian temple in Lekki, Lagos started organising Free Eye Cataract Surgery camps way back from 1999 in a modest way. Since three years Rotary Club of Lagos Island has partnered

with Geeta Ashram to scale up the effort.

This Rotary Year 2019-20, the club is targeting 1,000 surgeries under its Vision 2020 Project, with the first camp just concluded with 609 surgeries at ECWA Hospital, Kano.

At the closing ceremony of the eye camp, President of Rotary Club of Lagos Island, Rotarian Vipul Agrawal in his message expressed happiness on the success of the Eye camp and affirmed the club’s commitment in serving the poor, disadvantaged

and needy. He thanked all the donors and well –wishers for their generous contribution and support. He particularly acknowledged the support of IHS Towers in restoring vision for so many. Rotarian Chairman, Vision 2020, Manu Lalwani profusely thanked the ECWA Hospital and the people of Kano for making the Eye Camp a big success.

The chief guest at on the occasion, the Emir of Kano, HH Maliam Muhammadu Sanusi II, duly represented

by Alh. Hamza Bayero, Dan

Madamin Kano in his message praised Rotary Club of Lagos Island and Geeta Ashram for their selfless service to the people of Kano and urged them to continue their humanitarian deeds to bring cheer and light to the people.

The club is involved in Health, Hygiene and Sanitation along with Education along with in Polio eradication drive, distribution of sanitary napkins to teenage school girls, rehabilitation of school toilets, fixing artificial limbs, vocational training and many other projects.

Leo Burnett Lagos Advocates Strong Retail Market for Africa Leo Burnett Lagos, a humankind company and a leading creative advertising firm has urged brand builders and communicators to discontinue the strategy of building retail across products but people.

Apress release made available to THISDAY revealed that the Chief Operating Officer, Leo Burnett Lagos Lekan Lawal, said this at the recently concluded 2019 Global Africa Forum on Communications (GAFCOMM), held in Kigali the Rwanda capital, with the theme, “Speak for Africa: New Frontiers for Africa’s Global Growth Story�.

While speaking on the topic “The Leo Burnett Way� as well contributing at the panel session, titled “the future of retail in Africa�, Lawal said, “Retail should be designed around people, not products. It should be designed in the context of multichannel shopping. We must deliver a relevant message that meets our shoppers’ needs at every channel along her path to

L-R: Moderator, Gomolemo Lolo Madikgetla: Lekan Lawal Chief Operating Officer Leo Burnett Lagos; Brand Ross Commercial Director, Coca Cola West Africa and Lesego Kotane, MD King James, Johannesburg at the event

purchase�.

According to him, the battle is on the ground already. Africa is one of the fastest-growing consumer markets in the world, adding “Household consumption has increased even faster than its gross domestic product (GDP) in recent years - and average annual GDP growth has consistently outpaced the

global average.� “This African consumer is driven by hope and fear; hence we must understand them to a granular level. The more confident they are, the more they spend. The less confident the more they go into saving mode. Deeper understanding the African consumer, both as a consumer and as a shopper

therefore is crucial to winning in retail,� he said.

He reinforced how his agency has helped various organisations solve complex retail problems, particularly with the introduction of the ‘ARC’ tool, Leo Burnett’s edge to connecting with African shoppers, scientifically mapping their journeys and designing based on a deeper understanding of their behaviour across various key channels.

Commenting on how Africa can solve it challenges through communication, Lawal said, “Most disputes are as a result of breakdown in communication.

Africa must commit to a holistic campaign that deliberately projects its best to the world, and even more importantly work towards improving their continent. “Communication will play a big role in fostering meaningful dialogue among different African nations, and nurture a shared vision for the continent’s future.

L-R: Special Assistant to Imo State Governor on Lagos Liaison, Mr. Neto Chikwe; Consular General of Italy, Mr Maurizio Busanelli and Imo Liaison Officer in Lagos, Hon Anthony Abili during the visit

ImoLiaisonOfficerVisitsItalyEmbassy inLagos,HighlightsOpportunities The Imo State Liaison Officer in Lagos, Hon. Anthony Abili recently paid a courtesy visit to the Consulate General of Italy, Maurizio Busanelli at the Italian Embassy in Lagos.

At the meeting, he highlighted on various areas of opportunities in the state which the embassy could come into partnership, which include sectors like Agriculture, Tourism, ICT as well as Oil and Gas. Accompanied by the Special Assistant to Imo State Governor on Lagos Liaison, Mr. Neto Chikwe, Abili explained that the purpose of the visit was to familiarise with the consulate, and deliver the good wishes of the Governor of Imo State, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha to the consular general.

In regards to Imo State’s newly unlevelled Agriculture Road map, the liaison officer made particular reference to the huge potential of Imo’s rich belts along with the opportunities in establishment of cassava processing plant, as the state is a major producer of the crop.

Abili explained that agro-processing and the access to the requisite agro- technology was a very important aspect in harnessing the full potentials of the states’ roadmap.

He revealed further that the Sam Mbakwe Airport Owerri is currently awaiting final approval to commence international cargo service, adding that the location and passenger traffic at Sam Mbakwe have given rise to opportunities to further develop the sector.

He said therefore that there was need to interface with the Italian government on study exchange programmes as this would promote opportunities for knowledge and skill transfer among the higher institutions in the state and their contemporaries in Italy.

Foundation Trains 200 Edo Youths in Solar PV Technology Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City As part of efforts to boost employment opportunities and self-reliance, Partnership Initiative in the Niger Delta (PIND), a Non-Governmental Organisation, has trained 200 youths on how to operate, install and maintain small to medium solar PV technology solutions and project management.

The training which lasted for months, had the youths from three senatorial districts of Edo State trained in various skills of renewable energy, agriculture, industry among others.

Speaking at the event, wife of Edo State Governor, Mrs Betsy Obaseki, said the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration will continue to groom youths in the state on-demand skill-set, especially in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), to prepare them to contribute to the state’s fledgling economy.

Mrs Obaseki who was represented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Gender, Ms Efosa Uyigue, commended PIND, the state’s Skills Development Agency (EdoJobs) and other partners for equipping youths with relevant skills to transform the state’s economy.

She said the skills programme was a dream come true, noting that she has always been passionate about skills development as an avenue to provide real solutions to problems confronting the Nigerian society. “The application of ICT such as coding technology has the capacity of addressing the mirage of problems and improve the lives of people in the state,� she added.

While congratulating the graduands, she urged them to recognise the value of skills they were taught and that they should be courageous to use the knowledge acquired to create the needed change in the society.

Earlier, the Manager, PIND Appropriate Technology Enabled Development, Dr. Teslin Giwa said the essence of the training was to provide alternative measure to the problem of electricity in the country due to incessant failure of electricity providers.

Also addressing the graduands, the Manager, Advocacy and Analysis, PIND, Dr. Chuks Ofulue who noted that the programme would be in batches, said the youths would be given a starter pack to go into the business and in turn, become employers of labour in their various skills acquired.

Ofulue explained that PIND foundation has a market development programme to groom the youths on marketing skills to sell their products to the people.

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MUSIC SHOWBIZ

‌Your weekly entertainment delight

NOLLYWOOD

It’s Party Time with NickFest This Weekend Stories by Vanessa Obioha The Balmoral Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel and Casino, Victoria Island, Lagos will come alive this weekend for the annual Maltina NickFest.

This year’s edition is holding on Saturday, September 28 and Sunday, September 29, 2019.

Lined up activities for the two-day event include Maltina’s fantastic Happy Land, Happy the Mascot and their favourite Nickelodeon characters in brand new live shows.

A strictly family affair, children will have the opportunity to see and play with their favourite bNickelodeon characters like SpongeBob Square Pants, Dora The Explorer, The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Chase and Marshall from Paw Patrol and Shimmer and Shine, the two genies who can solve any problem. Making their debut appearance in Nigeria are the new and super-charged ‘Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.’ These heroes are back with more energy and power that will make them a toast for the family-themed festival.

Children and parents can also

look forward to big surprises at Maltina’s Happy Land as the brand has a lot of exciting activities planned for the children.

One of the major highlights of NickFest will be the Celebrity Slime Challenge, which will feature popular personalities getting slimed green.

Speaking on the fun awaiting all attending families, The Portfolio Manager, NonAlcoholic Drinks, Nigerian Breweries Plc,Ngozi Nkwoji, said: “We, at Maltina are always excited whenever we get opportunities like this to share happiness and bring families together. Nickfest is a very important investment for us, as we recognise the signiďŹ cance of family time.

As a brand that is all about nourishing family moments, we are once again excited to open the gates of Happy Land to thousands of families from across the country even as we prepare to share happiness all around.� Nickfest is an annual family spectacle, a weekend of epic entertainment that has annually, since 2017, welcomed over 4,000 children and parents.

It has featured celebrities such

Former Mr.Nigeria Makes Directorial Debut in New TV series Actor and model Emmanuel Ikubese has added another feather in his cap. This time around, he exed his muscles in ďŹ lm directing for his upcoming TV series‘Kyaddala’, a Ugandan phrase for ‘It’s Real’. Ikubese went behind the camera for the ďŹ rst time and shot the series in Uganda, which he produced and also starred in. He describes it as a unique experience that allowed him to put into practice all he has learnt on set. “It is a big step for me. I have always wanted to make a ďŹ lm that will impact on the lives of people. I gained conďŹ dence to take this leap on the set of Flatmates. We got an opportunity to tell our own stories so I wrote a couple of episodes and that gave me the inspiration to tell stories that affect lives.â€?

According to the former Mr. Nigeria, Kyaddala is patterned after ‘Shuga’ the MTV Staying Alive Foundation’s lifestyle TV series where Ikubese made his acting debut. It addresses issues that revolve around younger persons such as rape, teenage pregnancy, HiV/AIDS, bullying, early child marriage among others.

It is a familiar path for the filmmaker who in 2015 launched his RAW (Respect A Woman) Foundation. The non-governmental organisation project trains youths on how to avoid domestic violence in our society. He deployed the film medium to spread his campaign by producing a short film ‘Black-Out’ which he costarred with Ghanaian actress Juliet Ibrahim. “Kyaddala is very real.They are real

Emmanuel Ikubese

life stories that we gathered from people we interviewed. We want to spark a dialogue where parents can have this kind of conversations with their children.�

For ‘Kyaddala’, Ikubese partnered with Humphrey Nabimanya, a long time friend and founder of the Ugandan based organisation Reach a Hand. “Humphrey is doing an amazing job in Uganda through Reach a Hand.

His organisation is helping young people resolve whatever issues that affect them.“ Ikubese tagged the eight-part TV series a Pan-African project as it features actors from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Nigeria. “I’m passionate about making PanAfrican ďŹ lms. I believe that we are one because you will ďŹ nd out that what a Ugandan is going through, a Nigerian will also be experiencing the same. Also I schooled in Kenya where there I met a lot of Africans so that mind set has always been there. I also believe that creating a Pan-African story presents a whole

Tasania Parsadh, Ngozi Nkwoji, Bada Akintunde-Johnson, Shimmer & Shine

as Simi, Mr. Eazi,Yemi Alade, the online comedienne, Emmanuella amongst others.

For this edition, afro-pop singer, Teni the Entertainer; pop

singer Fireboy, and hip-hop artiste, Rema, will be thrilling the children with music. The entertainment packed event will be hosted by Nigerian radio

presenter, Mannie Essien and will be co-hosted by talented Nigerian child singer, Amarachi Uyanne also popularly called Amarachi Dance.

IshayaBako’s4thRepublicMovieScreensAcrossNigerianUniversities Chiamaka Ozulumba

INEC Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Junior Chambers International (JCI) and Enough is Enough (EiE) Nigeria have partnered Nigerian ďŹ lm producers Griot Studios Ltd and Amateur Heads Productions to screen the political thriller, 4THREPUBLIC in speciďŹ c host communities.

The screenings kicked off with INEC and NOA on September 16, 2019 at the Reverton Hotel in Lokoja, Kogi State with key political stakeholders in attendance.This was followed by another screening of the ďŹ lm in Yenegoa, the Bayelsa State capital on September 23.

Both screenings were organised ahead of the November 16 gubernatorial elections in Kogi and Bayelsa states. This followed two hugely successful independent showings in Kaduna State – at the third Annual Kaduna Book and Arts Festival (Kabafest) and at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

4th Republic was made to raise awareness and stir conversation on the Nigerian political and electoral terrain. It explores the dynamics of politics in Nigeria; the necessity of a better political class; the presence or lack of women in politics and the importance of a fair and incorruptible judiciary.

The movie is set against the backdrop of a violent and heavily marred governorship election in Nigeria and the ensuing controversial election petition tribunal. It stars Kate Henshaw as Conuence State governorship candidate, Mabel King, and her quest to take back the seat she believes she rightfully wins against all odds.

4thRepFilm Poster

Speaking at the screening of the ďŹ lm in Lokoja, Mr. Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, Director ofVoter Education at INEC said,“We believe that voter education should be done through as many media as possible, and this is art, and Nollywood is one of the frontiers that we think can reach millions of Nigeriansâ€?.

Mrs. Ruth Ogun, Director of Public Enlightenment and Mass Mobilisation at NOA added,“The movie describes to us, vividly the issues that arises during elections‌ with this ďŹ lm, it is shown that there is no gain going the violent way.â€?She further said,“This is a very good tool and platform in getting the message across. For us, it is a partnership for positive developmentâ€?.

The partnership with the producers, INEC, JCI and EiE Nigeria will see the ďŹ lm shown in about 18 universities, across the six geo-political zones in the country.There have been showings of the ďŹ lm at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Federal University, Lokoja and Federal University, Otuoke. Director of the ďŹ lm, Ishaya Bako said,“I think it is interesting

that the ďŹ lm has gotten such strong and positive responses in each of the screenings we’ve had and I am grateful that all the hard work from the cast and crew is paying off in this way with such support and collaboration. “From our fantastic funders, the MacArthur Foundation and OSIWA to a progressive indigenous IT ďŹ rm, Softcom and their visionary CEO Yomi Adedeji and now government agencies and civil society actors.

These planned screenings show the power of ďŹ lm to bring people together and also stir conversation about some of the more important issues that affect us in society today.â€?

4TH REPUBLIC stars Kate Henshaw, Bimbo Manuel, Enyinna Nwigwe, Yakubu Mohammed, Sani Mu’azu and Linda Ejiofor among others.The ďŹ lm, distributed by FilmOne, was written by Zainab Omaki and Emil B. Garuba and directed by Ishaya Bako. Bem Pever, Kemi‘Lala’Akindoju and Ummi A.Yakubu serve as producers.The ďŹ lm will be showing in universities across the country from September to December 2019.

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Zee World Adds Four New Shows to 2020 Lineup

A scene from Zee World ‘Married Again’

The popular Bollywood entertainment channel Zee World recently revealed the new shows that will be added to its programme lineup in 2020.The shows include‘Deception’, ‘Jodha & Akbar’, ‘Snatched’, and‘Ring of Fire’. “Zee World enjoys a tremendous following in Nigeria and has undoubtedly become an African entertainment success story. We look forward to once again bringing

the best that Bollywood has to offer to our Nigerian audience,â€?said the CEO Zee Africa and Asia PaciďŹ c, Harish Goyal.

Goyal also revealed that viewers can look forward to the return of popular shows like‘Gangaa 2’and ‘Married Again’ season 2; as well as the launch of new exciting series such as ‘Lady Luck’ and ‘Amma’ in November this year.

While ‘Amma’ takes viewers on

the journey of Zeenat, a strong and bold woman whose mission is to ďŹ ght for her community’s freedom against the British rule,‘Lady Luck’ tells the tale of a bright girl, Bhoomi, who, at the end of her school career, and looking forward to entering the workplace, must contend with the age-old tradition of becoming a stay-at-home wife.

Zee World is available on DStv channel 166 and GOtv channel 25.

The Fugitive Hits the Cinemas Today Nollywood patron and ďŹ lmmaker Andy Boyo will be releasing his latest blockbuster ‘The Fugitive’ today in select cinemas across the nation today, Friday September 27. The ďŹ lm is coming on the heels of his last production ‘House of Talents’.

In ‘The Fugitive’, Boyo attempts to underscore the various issues facing the continent today such as xenophobia. Although, the ďŹ lm is coming shortly after the recent xenophobic attack in South Africa, Boyo claimed it was purely coincidental that the ďŹ lm explored the theme.

“I shot this movie a year ago. I didn’t know the xenophobic attack will take place. I saw that there was disunity and I subtly interpreted it in the ďŹ lm.â€?

The ďŹ lm is set in a ďŹ ctional country called United States of Africa where every country in the continent is represented as a state. According to Boyo, the setting was intentional and a subtle way to encourage the union of the African nations. “There are other subtle messages in the ďŹ lm such as the discouragement of killing albinos as practised in

East and South Africa. There are so many ingredients in it that will require one to think,â€?said Boyo ‘The Fugitive’ tells the story of a young detective who was falsely accused of the murder of a female investigate journalist. It highlighted the corruption in the judicial system.The Pan-African ďŹ lm also featured bigweights in Nollywood like Kate Henshaw, Keppy Ekpenyong, Frederick Leonard, Daniel K.Daniel alongside actors from Zambia, Uganda and Rwanda. Boyo produced and directed the ďŹ lm.

LivinginBondage:BreakingFreeGetsaTheatricalReleaseDate The much anticipated sequel to Nollywood’s ďŹ rst and most iconic blockbuster, Living In Bondage, will be coming to the cinemas on November 8, 2019.

Titled ‘Living In Bondage: Breaking Free’, the ďŹ lm created by Play Network Africa in conjunction with Native Filmworks, revolves around Nnamdi, Andy Okeke’s mysterious son, and his vaunting quest for the big

life, one that he would do whatever it took to realise. Nnamdi’s untamed quest for the quick buck, fast car, easy living, inevitably took him on a perilous journey that is better told by the cast of stellar performers including Kenneth Okonkwo, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Enyinna Nwigwe, Nancy Isime, & Munachi Abii.

Co-produced by award winning producer, Steve Gukas, Dotun

Olakurin and Charles Okpaleke; and directed by Nollywood actor, Ramsey Nouah, the production which started in June 2018, was shot in Lagos, Owerri, Durban in South Africa, and beyond.

The ďŹ lm was written by Nicole Asinugo and C.J. Obasi, and has an original score produced by Larry Gaaga that features A-list Afrobeat artistes.

Studio 24 Unveils Photography Robot Foremost photography outďŹ t, Studio 24 recently unveiled an artiďŹ cial intelligence (AI) based photography robot aimed at complementing traditional photography.

Tagged‘Game Changer’, it is a ďŹ rst of its kind to be introduced in the digital imaging industry in Nigeria.

The robot consists of a large screen that provides an interface for users to take instant photographs. The screen enables its users to adjust their pose before each shot; thus, serving the same purpose of a selďŹ e on a Smartphone, but this time on a larger screen. Using the interface, users can either cancel taken shots or proceed to print physical copies

using a printer that is made available.

The images can also be emailed or sent as messages for social media uploads.

The robot is equipped with a mounted canon digital single-lens reex (DSLR) 18-55 mm camera that delivers perfect shots with balanced exposure. Depending on the taste of clients, the camera can be swapped to meet speciďŹ c needs.The unit that was unveiled was named Grace, in honour of their late manger Grace Ugbor. She died in 2015.

According to the MD/CEO, Ifeanyi Oputa, the addition of robot photographer modelled in the female form is an avenue to encourage women to

go into photography being that the industry is male dominated. On his expectations for the future, he said: “Our expectation is that the world of event photography would not be the same again in the future.

People having all kinds of events: corporate, private events, they would search to hire things that would engage their clients. People want to engage people to get the experience, something futuristic, like, this is a starting point... today you have a [robot] photographer who moves in a certain way, in a few years time, it can advance into someone who can y. This is just the beginning.�

BB NAIJA UPDATE WITH VANESSA

Survival of the Spiciest In the history of the Big Brother Naija Pepper Dem edition, this week’s nomination show will remain indelible. It was a very intense night with the twists and turns that came with the Ultimate Veto Power Holder. That fresh and odd guy Frodd emerged the winner of that title last Sunday Eviction Show, giving him the ultimate power to put any of the housemates up for possible eviction. Knowing Frodd and his emotional strategies, not a few stayed glued to their TV to ďŹ nd out whose survival he will be rocking with.

Predictably, he chose the ďŹ ve housemates who have stepped on his toe. Ike for not saving him when he got the chance, Elozonam for their constant clash, Tacha...well, her resilience and perhaps her peppery character, Cindy for also challenging him at one time, Mike, for the same reason. The only people who seemed to be in his good books were Omashola and Diane. Mercy escaped his wrath because she already purchased immunity with her Bet9ja coins. Seyi fortunately was the Head of House winner for the week, automatically saving him from nominations.

The Gods of Housemates Frodd was ďŹ lled with gratitude to the Most High when he emerged winner of UVPH. On Twitter, his fans relished the moment, claiming that his ‘God’ has lifted him above his enemies.

His choices also excited fans of Diane. They told anyone who cared to listen that the ‘God of Diane’ had kept her in the house till the ďŹ nal week.Their celebration irked a few social media users who couldn’t fathom how Diane, the young lady from Kaduna state has survived the game so far.

The Last Housemates Standing Since Frodd’s nominations, there’s been speculations on how many housemates will leave the house this weekend. Usually, ďŹ ve housemates are left in the ďŹ nal week to compete for the grand prize worth N60 million. Fans have been suggesting that perhaps the ďŹ ve nominees will leave the house on Sunday. Another group of BBNaija denizens speculate that two housemates with the least Bet9ja coins will exit the game on Saturday, while the remaining three will leave on Sunday.

If that should happen, then Tacha, the conďŹ dent ‘No leave, no transfer’ contestant will be eating her words.

Nevertheless, fans of the housemates are not leaving anything to chance. They are campaigning vigorously for their favourite contestants to win the game. It is now a survival of the spiciest housemate.

During the week, there were accusations by Tacha’s fans that a billboard erected to fetch votes for the lady from Port Harcourt was destroyed by the Mercy’s fans. A viral video online had some men speciďŹ cally saying that ‘Owerri is for Mercy’ and Tacha’s fans should stick to Port Harcourt. But Mercy’s fans are claiming that the act is a ploy from Tacha’s camp to rub their idol’s name in the mud. Meanwhile, the fans are planning a massive campaign for Mercy and his beau Ike who is up for eviction at Maryland tomorrow.

Of the ďŹ ve nominees, Cindy and Elozonam seemed to have the lowest campaigns on social media. But anything can happen in the Big Brother Naija House.

Despite the eviction tension, it has also been a happy week for the contestants. They were asked to leave memories on the walls of the Big Brother Naija House. Some drew a painting, advertising their brands while others scribbled words. But what is grafďŹ ti without some fun. Elozonam, the grammarian in the house noticed Tacha’s wrong spelling of Port Harcourt and Daughter.

He couldn’t keep his discovery to himself and shared with Seyi who clearly didn’t want a dose of Tacha’s drama.

One of the lovely moments in the house was when they were visited by some of the big names in the creative industry on Wednesday night. Like they partied last week with 2Baba, this week’s visitors were Nollywood actors like Patience Ozokwor, Mr. Ibu, Chinedu Ikedieze popularly known as Aki, Dakore Egbuson, Kemi ‘Lala’ Akindoju, Osas Ighodaro-Ajibade who is also a host and TV presenter, and fashion designer Mai Atafo. The housemates had a sumptuous dinner with the stars while they gleaned information on how to survive the creative industry.

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POTPOURRI

PCLPartnersFiveCowriesfor‘MyStoryofWater’Project Sunday Ehigiator As part of Phillips Consulting’s (pcl.) commitment to drive inclusiveness and development in Nigeria, the company has recently partnered Five Cowries initiative to deliver on the project ‘My Story of Water’.

The Associate Partner, pcl, Dele Phillips in his address on the initiative, explained that, “last year, pcl realigned her business goals with a clear focus on transforming businesses using its strategy, digital and human capital resources. “The ‘Five Cowries’ initiative provides pcl with the platform to achieve one of her strategic goals; impacting lives. “The story of water encourages students to tell visual stories about water and sustainability in their environment. pcl has been delighted to provide fluidity in the process, making this a success story. “We are also pleased with the positive energy towards building and maintaining our waterways.�

The founder, Five Cowries initiative, Polly Alakija, while speaking on the project, and explaining the challenges young children experience in Nigeria regarding lack of water, said, “Five Cowries initiative was launched in 2017 to offer more inclusive pathways into education by integrating arts into teaching to improve learning outcomes.

Rebecca Ejifoma

L-R Associate Partner, Phillips Consulting Limited, Dele Phillips, Founder, Five Cowries Initiative, Polly Alakija, and MD, Phillips Consulting Limited, Robert Taiwo, at ‘My Story of Water’ Exhibition

“The initiative was established as a response to the degenerating educational system in Nigeria. Five Cowries trained 50 teachers who directly support some 2,000 children annually. “Through this initiative, we deliver programs that improve education and that also engage our children with issues of social and global impact and importance of conservation, citizenship, health, migration and new technologies for pollution. e 2019 project, “My Story of Water� is a collaborative arts program bringing children from Lagos with partners around the world, using art as a vehicle for social change.

“The initiative is aimed at creating awareness and helping children understand the importance of water, water pollution and the environmental crisis, which will, in turn, inspire creative ways to address the issues in the country. “Everyday activities such as bathing and cooking have become chores for these children; they are constantly at risk of diseases caused by using dirty water. “The children were encouraged and empowered to express themselves and tell their stories about water using art by painting jerry cans, canoes, etc. “About 1600 children from

over 30 primary schools in Lagos and Ogun States took part in this project and produced an installation of 500 painted jerry cans. “pcl assisted and supported by distributing art supplies and ‘canvases’ in the form of jerry cans to the primary schools in Lagos, Abeokuta, Ilaro,Aiyetoro and Ijebu-Ode in Ogun state and also support the kids during the creative sessions. “Collaborating with public, private and civil sector partners, including pcl, the ‘Five Cowries’ initiative is intentional about fusing the three Rs of primary education; reading, writing and arithmetic, with the four C’s; critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity.’ He said.

Invest In Humanity Not Nuclear Weapons, Ooni Charges World Leaders Ayodeji Ake The Arole Oodua & Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi(Ojaja II) has urged world leaders to invest in humanity through researches and documentation of historical facts rather than spending on nuclear weapons.

The Co-chairman of National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria(NCTRN), as contained in the press release made available to journalists, made the call recently at his Ile-Oodua Palace in Ile Ife while playing host to a team of researchers led by the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Jerome Pasquier. The foremost African monarch who decried the huge amount of resources invested in the procurement of war weapons which he described as items of destruction, posited that the world will be a better place for all if such is spent to advance nature through archeological and historical researches that can establish the links connecting various nations in the world as one family.

Chika Ike Delves into Cosmetics, Launches Own Makeup

The Arole Oodua and Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II) and some traditional leaders in a group photograph with French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Jerome Pasquier

“We are one people regardless of our cultural, racial, religious and social beliefs and the earlier we recognise this fact the better for us. Let us use our God given resources and potentials to document our history and research on archeology linking all of us together as one family even though separated by artificial national boundaries. These archeological items are useful for the unborn generations, rather than destroying ourselves with our own resources.�

Ooni said. On the visit of the French Ambassador and other researchers to the ancient city, Ooni Ogunwusi revealed that there is a strong cultural relationship between France and Nigeria especially on the basis of kingship. He commended the visiting ambassador and his team members for their commitment to the promotion of the prestigious African culture. “Just recently, the French President, Mr. Emanuel Macron, visited Nigeria

during which he stopped at some notable heritage sites including the famous musical shrine originated by the late Afro legend, our own Fella Anikulapo Kuti. “I have always said we are of one family source, the Europeans too are now corroborating me. The French government has been wonderful especially in ensuring that all our artifacts are returned to us in this part of Africa, they are working with us on this here in Ile-Ife, they are also working with the Benin kingdom.

Screen diva and entrepreneur, Chika Ike, is at it again, this time, however with cosmetic products like eye shadow and matte lipstick for the flawless and even glimmer look.

The movie goddess, in her quest to quench the taste of beauty lovers, officially unveiled Chika Cosmetics. It has ranges of products like the 18 palette eye shadow and the 12 liquid lip matte lipstick with different vibrant colours.

With her name ‘Chika Cosmetics’ aesthetically imprinted on the brand, it means she is putting herself out there with confidence that “I trust the product�.

Noting how she went through two years of rigorous research, trials and testing in different factories around the world to ensure she got the right ingredients, the industrious entrepreneur boasts of the products.

Her words: “The lipstick last for 24 hours. It gives the user that matte feel. I’m proud to say it is something I can wear.

I hope that the consumers out there love it.�

For the 18 palette eye shadow and the lipstick including nudes, they come at a very friendly market price according to her.

Because of her love for pink colours, she wrapped the cosmetic with pink roses for that flawless feminine feel that first attracts the buyer.

As one in the entertainment industry, looking good is good business for Chika. “Different people look up to you often as a role model. They look at what you wear and how you look�, she expressed. “For me, everyone who knows me knows I love beauty.

You may think I have a cosmetic store because of my loads of makeup items. so, I had to do something I’m passionate about, something that comes close to me. that is beauty product,� she added.

Above all, as she hopes to cut across all states in the country, she is determined to keep her head up high with her drive to show that female movie stars can thrive in whatever they delve into.

LAWMA Canvasses for Waste Sorting for Recycling Ayodeji Ake The Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, has again urged residents to imbibe the culture of waste sorting at source by dropping all recyclable items in one bag and other waste items in another.

This comes on the heels of the recently launched Blue Box Program of the state government.

As contained in a press release made available to THISDAY, Gbadegesin spoke at Orile bus stop during a road show organised by LAWMA along Lagos Badagry Expressway, to create awareness among residents and to distribute waste bags to them.

According to him, they embarked on the massive sensitisation program to draw the attention of residents in the area to the need for proper sanitation and cleaner surroundings. “Today we’ve come to sensitise the community on how to maintain a clean environment because a clean environment is the beginning of good health for all Lagosians. If you don’t have a clean environment, you cannot enjoy good health�, Dr. Gbadegesin said.

Speaking further he said, “You were keeping one waste bag before, but now you will be keeping two bags; one bag for your recyclable materials like plastic bottles, cans and water sachets while the other bag is for general waste. That is why we are distributing the bags to you, for the “Blue Box� program which the governor launched last week. “I also want you to stop the idea of using refuse to reclaim land. This is an unwholesome practice that is harmful to the environment and must be discontinued�, he stressed.

The LAWMA boss also stated that the agency, as a followup to the recent executive order on sanitation by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, had commenced massive clean-up exercises along Orile – Lagos Badagry Expressway, to ensure that the stretch was rid of black spots and all forms of environmental nuisance.

LAGESC Gets New Corps Marshal The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved the appointment of CP Gbemisola Akinpelu, a (retired) Commissioner of Police as the new Corps Marshal of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC).

According to Adebayo Kehinde of LAGESC Public Affairs Unit, Akinpelu who is a graduate of History &

International Relations Department, Lagos State University Ojo, started her career as a Cadet Inspector in the Nigerian Police in 1984.

She later served with the Nigeria Police in several capacities, which includes; Head, Criminal Central Registry, Alagbon, Lagos.

Mrs. Akinpelu later served as the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge

of Administration, Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Abuja and later as the Commissioner of Police, Inspectorate, Directorate of Training, Force Headquarters, Abuja and as the Commandant, Police College, Ikeja, where she retired meritoriously.

Alongside her appointment are the three Deputy Corps Marshals; Mr. Ganiyu

Salami, Mr. Adeeso Adeleke, and Mr. Ganiyu Kazeem for the Control and Supervision of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps Members. The Lagos State environmental Sanitation Corps, the erstwhile Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) Brigade was established to promote a cleaner, hygienic, aesthetically resplendent environment.

MD/CEO, LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin (3rd right); former MD., Mr. Ola Oresanya (r); LAWMA ambassador, actor, Mr. Funso Adeolu (3rd left); convener, Children for Cleaner Lagos, Ohekwuru Tony-Iji (m); with the LAWMA family at Orile bus stop, during its road show Agbalizu

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ART WEEKEND

‌For pure art enthusiasts

Remembering the Legacies of Village Headmaster at 50

It’s All About the Silver Lining

The surviving cast and crew of the nation’s longest running television drama series rekindle the fond memories of‘The Village Headmaster’with the plans to celebrate its golden years in October, YINKA OLATUNBOSUN reports Walking into the quiet premises of the National Television Authority (NTA) Victoria Island Lagos would have been awkward for those who spent their youthful years there rehearsing for a variety of television productions in the 60s, 70s and 80s. NTA was a hub of creative content that was educative and entertaining.

The masterfully crafted and hilarious television drama series called ‘The Village Headmaster’ had the sort of followership that European club football now has in Nigeria. Created by Chief Olusegun Olusola, the series starred Ted Mukoro, Justus Esiri and Femi Robinson all of whom played the role of the Village Headmaster albeit at different times in the course of the production. Others were Funsho Adeolu who played Chief Eleyinmi, Jab Adu who played the character Bassey Okon, the village chemist; Ibidun Allison who acted as the palm wine seller and village gossip popularly known as Amebo, Joe Layode who acted as Teacher Garba, amongst others.

To mark the fifty years since the Village Headmaster hit the screen, the NTA and The Village Headmaster Family (VHMF) have announced a series of activities scheduled to hold in Lagos in October. The Chairperson, VHMF, Ibidun Allison revealed that in addition to the curated conversations on the ideals and legacies of the rested television drama, post-humous awards will be presented

Book cover

Ibidun Allison a.k.a Amebo during the press brieďŹ ng

in honour of the contributions of the legendary cast and crew members who have died. “The Village Headmaster ruled the nation’s air waves for more than two decades, promoting national unity and through its diverse characters, proffered many solutions to educational, social and political situations. Its ability to use drama to pass messages to its teeming audience is one of the attributes that will be examined at a roundtable discussion at the Freedom Park on Tuesday, October 8,’’ Allison said in good humour, with reference to her traditional role of breaking news in the rested television drama.

The talk session with the theme, “Drama: A tool for National Development’’ will feature discussants led by Prof Ahmed Yerima and Prof Duro Oni. Others include Joke Silva, Zik Zulu, Kadaria Ahmed,

Femi Odugbemi and Deborah Ogazuma. While fielding questions from the journalists during the press briefing at NTA, Lagos, the Head of NTA Lagos Network Centre, Mallam Ahmed Lawal assured the journalists that the station still has in its possession some episodes from the Village Headmaster. For years, there has been reports that many of the series had been lost. Mallam Lawal also explained that due to the shortage of the VHS tapes, some tapes had been redubbed while others had found their ways to Alaba International Market. Some of the latter had since been retrieved and preserved. “Archiving is key and critical. NTA has what it has in its library.We have the content in both the original and digital format. We know that there will come a time when former formats such as the VHS, DVD would go extinct. So, we

started digitising. Today, we have servers containing the digital content. We are trying to harness them into one network so that they can be accessible,’’ he said.

On October 10, there will be two stage performances featuring the veteran actors at the Terra Kulture Arena, Victoria Island. One of the drama productions is titled, “Double Speak’’ while the other will be two episodes of the Village Headmaster.

The celebration will come to its peak at a commemoration dinner at the Shell Hall, MUSON Centre, Onikan on Friday October 11. At the ceremony, the Village Headmaster Foundation will be launched. This foundation will cater for the needs and welfare of persons in the entertainment industry including ailing and retired practitioners. It will also help in capacity building for upcoming artistes in Nigeria.

Ademola Adesina Returns with ‘Whispering Colors’ Stories by Yinka Olatunbosun The culture-centric visual artist, Ademola Adesina is ready to show his new body of works in an exhibition titled, “Whispering Colours.’’ This is his first show following his international show in Nairobi, Kenya last June with the theme, “Beyond Borders.’’ The show which enjoyed rave reviews was held at Banana Hill Art Gallery, Nairobi alongside great artists such as the Kenyan post-war and contemporary artist, Alan Githuka and one of the founding fathers of Eastern African contemporary art, WanyuBrush.

It is against this backdrop that Adesina returns to Hotel Mercure, formerly known as MoorHouse in Ikoyi tomorrow, September 28 with works that pop with colours. In a statement,

Adesina and his work titled “Gladiators�

Adesina explained the rationale for this new attitude to painting and expressing self. “Colours speak to us in ways we cannot put in writing,’’ Adesina explains in a press

statement. “Colour enhances our longing and clears a path for our appetites to be satisfied.

It does not lie but resides in truth always. We are offered layers upon layers of truth in varying

magnitude�.

There is no gainsaying that he had moved by his Nairobi experience, the way his multiracial audience engaged with the works and are attracted by the power of colours in each painting. “I discovered that colours speak only one language but every individual hears it differently. There is a common colour that binds both old and young as well as black and white,’’ he argued.

Adesina is deeply philosophical in this body of works made up of 22 pieces of paintings in oil and acrylic including “One Voice,’’ “The Gladiators’’ and “Legacy�. His last show at Moorhouse was in April 2018 with the title, “New Possibilities’’ at the Weave & Co Gallery domiciled in the luxury hotel.

His works are highly influenced by rich Yoruba culture and textile designs.

Panshak Haggai’s ‘Storm in a Pot’ may have just hit the shelves this season but the story it tells is about every day heroes who consider themselves as victims of an unfortunate life. Told through the female protagonist, Sikimi, the narrative bears a graphic portrayal of a woman who struggles against acute poverty, an alcoholic husband and the burden of raising seven children in a small rural community called Aisika. In a linear plot structure, the author conveyed a domestic fairy tale using all the nuances of the lower-class women to accentuate the themes of survival, resilience, friendship, romance and motherhood.

Perhaps the author may have thought he has a moral obligation to use the fictional work to address some of the social realities in the locale of the book. Edivo, who is rated as the best warrior in the village suffers depression and gives in to excessive drinking. He eventually deserts his family upon learning that his wife is pregnant with the eighth child. Another issue raised through the characterization is sexual harassment. Sikimi, who turns to Dusagu, her husband’s friend, for financial support in the heat of poverty, is sexually harassed. Dusagu tries to take advantage of Sikimi’s helpless situation but she courageously rejects his advances. Sikimi’s delivery puts a spotlight on the poor state of medical care.

Whilst one may be quick to point accusing fingers in the direction of the government, it is also clear that Haggai’s portrayal of the nurse speaks volumes about how individuals make public services in Nigeria a daily nightmare for the citizens.

Sikimi’s eldest child, Nemsi is a young teenager who is hooked on her crush. She keeps this romance far away from her mother’s prying eyes until she stumbles upon one of the love letters from Bonoh, the House Captain who seemed to be genuinely in love with Nemsi. The heartbreak that follows this fresh romance forced Nemsi to transfer aggression to her mother.

A shocking discovery comes in the character of Quana.

She brings the resolution to the conflict of plot, making Sikimi an unusual heroine that the reader won’t see until the end of the book. No doubt, ‘A Storm in a Pot’ is an interesting read for a general reading audience.

‘AdiotheMusical’LightsUp IndependenceDayCelebration Trailing the impressive performances in Lagos and Bonny Island, the story theatre piece called ‘Adio the Musical,’ which is the newest edition of “Story Theatre with Grandma Wura� specially created for children and their families is set to return to stage for Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration.

A Back2myRoots project initiative of Proud African Root, Adiothe Musical, piece written and produced by Mrs. Bola Edwards with songs composed by Mr. Patrick Edwards, was unveiled in celebration of Children’s Day this year.

The Independence edition will take place at The Palms Shopping Mall from September 28 to 30, 2019. “As always, it is created to educate and train children and teenagers on the topic of leadership and nation building as it affects maximum use of their talents in the world as well as in society,’’ the Producer, Mrs. Bola Edwards said.

Featuring acclaimed singer Olufunmi Ajoyegbe; the proprietress and Head of School, Toddler Tree GRA, Ikeja, Mrs. FadekemiOlumide Aluko, this edition for Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration is in collaboration with The Palms Shopping Mall and partners such as Rite Foods, Wuwi Event, More, KarotizeCouture and Genesis. “We seek partnership with schools, brands, organisations, groups, individuals and others in carrying out this initiative of raising new leaders through alternative forms of education such as entertainment and impeccable storytelling that impact the minds of children for their whole lifetime,� Edwards added.

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

IMMUNOLOGICAL CAUSES OF INFERTILITY PART1

T

he Immune system serves as a defense mechanism for the body. It protects the body against bacteria, virus, parasites and other harmful microorganisms through the production of antibodies that recognize and attack these microorganisms.

When the immune system sense the presence of any antigen (that is foreign substance) it starts up an immune response which automatically attacks the antigen with the help of the antibodies produced and also identiďŹ es self and non-self by detecting proteins present on the surface of all cells.This also involves an arranged set of interactions among host cells with the purpose of preventing dangerous incursion and also restoring homeostasis.The immune system does not only defend against external challenging antigens but also the possibilities of internal attack from tumor cells and sometimes auto aggressive attack from its own defensive forces and this is known as autoimmunity. For every individual, the immune system varies but, it becomes stronger during adulthood, as we have been exposed to more pathogens and developed better immunity. This is the main reason children fall sick than adults. Once an antibody has been produced previously, a copy is retained in the body so that if the same antigen comes in again, it can be dealt with quickly. An example of this is chicken pox, once you have had chicken pox before, the body stores the antibody, and then the next time this chicken pox antigen arrives, the antibody ďŹ ghts it immediately and this is called Immunity.

The immune system consists of dierent types of cells,organs, proteins and tissues.

The major proteins of the immune system are majorly signaling proteins (often called cytokines), antibodies, and complement protein. The cells include white blood cells also known as leukocytes.

They circulate in the blood vessels and lymphatic vessels that are parallel in the veins and arteries.

They are usually on constant parade to get a target and then they send a signal out to other cell types to do the same. The white blood cells are stored in various places in the body and they are called lymphoid organs and these organs includes: Ëž Ă’ĂŁĂ—Ă&#x;Ă?Ëž Ă‹ Ă‘Ă–Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂŒĂ?ÞåĂ?Ă?Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă–Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă‘Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂŒĂ?ÖÙå the neck. Ëž ÚÖĂ?Ă?Ă˜Ëž Ă‹Ă˜ Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă‹Ă˜ ÞÒËÞ ʨÖÞĂ?ĂœĂ? ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂ–Ă™Ă™ĂŽË› Ăž Ă“Ă? located in the upper left of the abdomen.

Ëž Ă—Ă—Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă™Ă‘Ă–Ă™ĂŒĂ&#x;Ă–Ă“Ă˜ Ě™ Ă‘ ĚšË? ʨÑĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă™Ă&#x;Ăž Ă—Ă“Ă?ĂœĂ™ĂŒĂ?Ă? so other cells can recognize and ďŹ ght them. Ëž Ă‘ Ë? Ă’Ă?Ă–ĂšĂ? Ă“Ă˜ Ă•Ă“Ă–Ă–Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂŒĂ‹Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Ă?ĘĽĂ?Ă?ÞÓà Ă?Ă–ĂŁË› Ëž Ă‘ Ë? Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă‘Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ĘŽĂ&#x;Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ëœ Ă–Ă“Ă•Ă? ĂžĂ?Ă‹ĂœĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă‹Ă–Ă“Ă Ă‹Ëœ and thus protects gateways into the body. Ëž Ă‘ Ë? ĂšĂœĂ™ĂžĂ?Ă?ĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă‘Ă‹Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ăž ĂšĂ‹ĂœĂ‹Ă?Ă“ĂžĂ?Ă?Ë› Ëž Ă‘ Ë? Ă&#x;Ă?Ă&#x;Ă‹Ă–Ă–ĂŁ ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽĂ?ĂŽ ÞÙ Öã×ÚÒÙĂ?ĂŁĂžĂ?Ă? ÞÒĂ&#x;Ă? helping them to start the immune response.

T lymphocytes There are dierent types of T lymphocytes Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÞÒĂ?Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă–Ă&#x;ĂŽĂ?Ëž Ëž Ă?Ă–ĂšĂ?Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă–Ă? Ě™ Ă’ Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă–Ă?ĚšË? ÞÒĂ?ĂŁ Ă‹ĂœĂ? ÞÙ Ă?Ă™Ă™ĂœĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ? ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă—Ă—Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă? ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂšĂ™Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ë› Ù×Ă? communicate with other cells, and some also Ă?ÞÓ×Ă&#x;Ă–Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă–Ă? ÞÙ ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?Ă? Ă—Ă™ĂœĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂžĂ“ĂŒĂ™ĂŽĂ“Ă?Ă?Ë› Others usually attract more T cells or celleating phagocytes. Ëž Ă“Ă–Ă–Ă?Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă–Ă? Ě™Ă?ãÞÙÞÙâÓĂ? Öã×ÚÒÙĂ?ĂŁĂžĂ?Ă?ĚšË? cells attack other cells and are particularly useful for ďŹ ghting viruses. They work by recognizing tiny parts of the virus on the outside of the infected cells and then destroy the infected cells.

Ëž Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂœĂ™ĂĄËž Ă“Ăž Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? bones, it also produces red blood cells. Ëž ã×ÚÒ Ă˜Ă™ĂŽĂ?Ă?Ëž Ă?Ă—Ă‹Ă–Ă– Ă‘Ă–Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽĂ? ÚÙĂ?Ă“ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂŽ throughout the body and linked by lymphatic vessels.

There are two major types of leukocytes Ă˜Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă–ĂŁËž Phagocytes: these cells surround, absorb, breakdown pathogens eectively eating them.

There are dierent types which include neutrophils, monocytes, macrophages and mast cells. ã×ÚÒÙĂ?ĂŁĂžĂ?Ă?Ë? ÞÒĂ?ĂŁ ĂœĂ?Ă—Ă?Ă—ĂŒĂ?Ăœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă™Ă‘Ă˜Ă“Ă¤Ă? previous invaders in the body when they come back. They start their life in the bone marrow, Ă?Ù×Ă? Ă?ÞËã Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ĂŒĂ™Ă˜Ă? Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂœĂ™ĂĄ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂŽĂ?Ă Ă?ÖÙÚ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ™

Öã×ÚÒÙĂ?ĂŁĂžĂ?Ă? Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă™ Ă•Ă˜Ă™ĂĄĂ˜ Ă‹Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă–Ă? ĂĄĂ’Ă“Ă–Ă? ÙÞÒĂ?ĂœĂ? move to the thymus and become T lymphocytes also called T cells.

B Lymphocytes Ă’Ă? ÙÖĂ? Ă™Ă? Öã×ÚÒÙĂ?ĂŁĂžĂ?Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă—Ă—Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă? system is to spot the antigen, then begin to Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ?ĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂžĂ“ĂŒĂ™ĂŽĂ“Ă?Ă? ÞÙ ʨÑÒÞ˛ Ă‹Ă?Ă’ Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă– Ă&#x;Ă?Ă&#x;ally makes one speciďŹ c antibody for a speciďŹ c antigen. Antibodies lock onto the antigen, but do Ă˜Ă™Ăž Ă•Ă“Ă–Ă– ÓÞ˞ ÞÒĂ?ĂŁ Ă™Ă˜Ă–ĂŁ Ă—Ă‹ĂœĂ• Ă“Ăž Ă?Ă™Ăœ ĂŽĂ?ËÞÒ˛ Ă’Ă? Ă•Ă“Ă–Ă–Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă“Ă? the done by other cells, such as phagocytes.They are also part of a large family of chemicals called immunoglobulin which play dierent roles in the immune response:

The types of Immunity include: Ëž Ă˜Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă“Ă—Ă—Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂŁ At birth, we all have some level of immunity to foreign bodies. The human immune system has been structured in a way to ďŹ ght antigens or foreign bodies from day one. This immunity type includes the external barriers of the body which serves as the first line of defense against pathogens. For example, skin, mucous membrane of the throat and gut.This type of immunity response is general and not specific. Ëž ÎËÚÞÓà Ă? Ă™Ăœ Ă‹Ă?Ă›Ă&#x;Ă“ĂœĂ?ĂŽ Ă“Ă—Ă—Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂŁ Adaptiveimmunityisthetypeofprotectionwe developaswegothroughlife.Whenweareexposedto diseasesorwegetvaccinated,alibraryofantibodiesis built,whichwillhelptheimmunesystemtoremember previousenemiesandthisiscalledimmunological memory. Ëž Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă Ă? Ă“Ă—Ă—Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂŁ Passiveimmunityisatypeofimmunitythatisgotten fromanothersource.Usually,itdoesnotlastforalong time.Anexampleofthisiswhenababygetsantibodies fromthemotherthroughtheplacentabeforebirthand inbreastmilkfollowingbirth,thispassiveimmunity automaticallyprotectsthebabyfrominfectionsduring theearlyyearsoflife. Ëž Ă™ ĂŒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă?ĂŽ Ă˜Ă?âÞ ĂĄĂ?Ă?Ă•

XTRA

JAMEK Boss Proers Measures to Check Adulteration of Drinks in Nigeria A producer of a leading imported wine in Nigeria, Mr. James Iweh , the CEO of JAMEK Nigeria Beverages, company has proffered measures to checkmate adulteration of drinks in Nigeria with top notch technology.

While urging Nigerians to learn to equip self on the benefits and health hazards of alcohol intake, JAMEK boss said the future of wine business in the country will be great if Nigerians know more about wine and the quantity of what they take into their system.

He made this call during the official opening of a new retail and wholesale outlet of JAMEK at 53/55 Ago Palace Way, Okota Lagos.

The Imo State- born indigene and a former trained arm officer further said it is not only in Nigeria that drugs are being abused, adding that alcohol abuse has to do with individuals.

He said, alcohol is good for the body when you drink responsibly, it prevents brain disease and it blows away effects like fats surrounding your heart but when it is abused, It’s going to have a lot of effects on your kidney and that is why JAMEK wine is trying to produce more non- alcoholic wines.

Also speaking on the challenge of adulteration, he said in a bid to check adulteration through which human health can be affected, his company has proscribed a measure to checking adulteration of drinks in Nigeria with top notch technology.

According to Iweh, “there is no way JAMEK wine will be imitated and we won’t know when we see it, I have an app in my phone and if I enter any wine store and and type the code,

CEO of JAMEK Nigeria, Mr. James Iweh anked by guests at the oďŹƒcial opening of his new retail and wholesale outlet

it will make a sound and I will know that the product is an adulterated version of my wine. “Again, our products are very protected that the cork are doubled and it can never be faked in Nigeria. Our wines are produced to suit our weather because we make it in compliant with it. There are so many wines in Nigeria today that are too harsh because of the hot weather but if you drink JAMEKwine , you will see

how smooth it is because it won’t gives you headache or heartburn. “In Germany where we produce the wine is known for not compromising when it comes to wine. Our wine may not be the same price with other wines in the market but we are after the quality of the product and not the quantity. “Again whenever I want to produce any wine, I get sample of different wines and take

it to Germany and we analyse it. “I can tell you today that there are some spirits that people drink in Nigeria that are made for countries whose weather are cold. If I want to produce any spirit, I will make sure it won’t harm your health by giving you heartburn or work against your kidney.

He further said: “I am the franchised owner of all my products because they are all NAFDAC rated, and we practice what we call Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), by inviting NAFDAC to be part of the product and that is why they also investigate the company that produces for for us. “JAMEK Ccocktail is the first ever approved wine by NAFDAC in Nigeria, it is made up of mango and other fruits. When you talk about cocktail, you talk about content that is refined and concentrate not flavoured. “Concentrate drink is different from flavored drink because it’s pure fruits and NAFDAC did not believe this and they told me they are going to prove whether the cocktail is fruit concentrate. “So in 2015, NAFDAC traveled to Germany to visit the company that produces it and there they saw mangoes and other fruits being brought in and produced fresh without adding any sweetener, that was when they approved the cocktail and gave us a number, making it the first cocktail that will ever be approved in Nigeria. “I am into wine business not just because of making money alone but also to produce what will be of great health benefits to human body as well as creating jobs for people.�

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COLLAGE EVENTS

HRHApollusChuforPharmaceuticalSocietyof NigeriaExcellenceAward

L-R: Managing Partner, F.O. Akinrele & Co. Ademola Akinrele , SAN; CEO, Fuudzie Digital, Emmanuel Lawan and Managing Partner, Woodberg ABIODUN AJALA Ltd, Mr. Akinfela Akoni, at the launch of Fuudzie online food market in Lagos...recently

His Royal Highness, (Dr.)Appolus Chu, Egbere Emere Okori I of Eleme Kingdom

Mary Nnah The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Rivers State branch, will be conferring awards on some eminent and deserving personalities in Rivers State during her luncheon for the Pharmacy Resource Centre project scheduled to hold in October.

One of those to be awarded is His Royal Highness Appolus Chu, the Egbere Emere, Eleme, Rivers State.

A notification letter addressed to HRH Appolus Chu, stated, “The society wishes to confer on you an award of excellence in recognition of your great philanthropic gestures particularly your immense support to the Health Sector in Rivers State, which contributed in no small measure to bringing quality health care services to the less privileged.â€? The letter jointly signed by the Chairman, PRC Committee, Chuks Onyibe; Secretary, PRC Committee, Dr. Karin Ekpe and Chairman, PSN, Rivers State, Chima Ogbu, noted further, “We also recognise your huge eorts a building bridges across ethnic divides in our country Nigeria and the enormous human capital development especially in the areas of scholarship awards to Rivers State indigenes. We therefore invite you to receive this Award of Excellence and also be the special guest of honour at this event.â€?

The award event, the organisers stated further will hold on October 17, 2019 at the Atlantic Hall, Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt at 12noon prompt. In recent times, the Egbere Emere, Okori, Eleme has taken it as his personal project to solicit for peace and sense of togetherness amongst kings and kingdom.

Mr and Mrs Ogadi Frank Chukwuemeke, during their welding reception at Four Squares Gospels Church in Lagos...recently

TheWorkPlaceMagazine Debuts October 1

Deputy Governor, Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat (left) and Celebrant/Director General, Federal Budget OďŹƒce, Mr. Ben Akabueze, during his 60th birthday celebration, at the Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos‌recently

L-R: Dr. Dele Fatoki; his wife, Aderonke: Chief Gbenga Obisesan; wife, Mopelola (nee Fatoki): Mr. Peter Fatoki; and wife, Omodunni, during the funreal and outing service for Chief Mrs. Florece Omobolanle Fatoki at the Christ Anglican Church, Erin-Ijesa...recently AKINYELE ABAYOMI

TheWorkPlaceMagazine, (TWP) a web-based magazine is set to debut on October 1, 2019. The digital magazine targeted at professionals globally is published with the objective of inspiring, informing and advocating issues that aect workers within the Africa Continent.

It has contents curated from over 50 successful Africa professionals including Jimi Tewe, Lanre Olusola, Tomini Oni, Funke Amobi, Jane Ergerton, Adeolu Akinyemi, Korede Asuni, Frank Banda, Niyi Adesanya, Tunde Usidame, Bayo Adekanmbi. Emmanuel Michael, Ogechi Adeola, Harry Akinola, Babatunde Afolabi and Tayo Bamiduro.

Speaking on the launch, TWP Editor, Tunde-Success Osideko, said, “Professionals are sure to derive value from reading and digesting the content as part of their professional development plan while organisations will ďŹ nd useful data and insights that can help to improve employee experience and ultimately business performance.â€?

Adding that “the publication is aimed at providing access to homegrown data on Africa workplaces, promoting best practice sharing among African organisations, controlling the Africa narrative by Africa and most importantly promoting visibility of homegrown innovations.’’ Osideko, is an alumnus of IMD Switzerland, Harvard Business School Executive Education, Anglian Ruskin University, United Kingdom, Gordon Institute of Business Science, South Africa and University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

The magazine explores themes around the workplace dissecting the dierent issues on the front burner of employee welfare and includes sections such as Expert’s view, Professional Diaries, C- Suite Mentoring, HR Clinic, Personal Finance Column and Short Stories.

TWP Magazine is a digital magazine focused on workplace issues and innovation within the African context. Our mission is to become a tool for visibility, innovation and advocacy on all matters that aect the employees in the workplace. We want to do this through the three pillars of inform, inspire and advocate. You can contact us @theworkplacemag, editor@ theworkplacemag.com , www.theworkplacemag.com

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LIFE

At Aspire Music Festival, Zenith Bank Customers Party Hard The teeming crowd at the Aspire Music Event organised by Zenith Bank for its customers at Harbour Point Event Centre, Victoria island

Rema entertaining the audience

Flavour on stage

Niniola performing on stage

Vanessa Obioha

T

he teeming crowd that converged at Harbour Point Event Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos last weekend for the Zenith Bank Aspire Music Festival showed no signs of vacating the venue after the last performance.

They were still sweating on the dance floor, moving their legs and hips to the beats and rhythms that flowed from the DJ’s wheels. The self-acclaimed ‘energy god’ Do2dtun who hosted the show alongside comedian Kenny Blaq showed no signs of drawing the curtains. He kept the adrenaline pumping with his hyping skills, encouraging the happy customers to party like they never had.

To a large extent, the hosts were the life and soul of the festival. They proved to be a wise choice for the financial institution that aims to provide lifestyle experiences for its teeming customers. For the duration of the event, Do2dtun and Kenny kept the ecstatic crowd on their feet.

Whether Do2dtun was taking them down memory lane with some oldies or Kenny performing his signature comedy music skits, the crowd were simply entertained. A notable skit from Kenny that left many in awe of his ingenuity was when he performed his version of the late pop legend Michael Jackson’s smashing hit ‘Billie Jean’ featuring Zlatan.

Another favourite of the crowd was when he sampled how an industrious gospel ‘Alaba’ musician can remix the popular ‘Zanku’ track to fit into his own genre. That performance elicited laughter from the crowd.

Being the first edition of the music festival which is part of the lined up activities for the second edition of the

Olamide entertaining Zenith Banks customers at the event

bank’s lifestyle event ‘Style by Zenith’, a rich lineup of artistes were featured.

They include Olamide, Phyno, Flavour, Niniola, Rema, and Mayorkun. Each of these artistes came on stage with their A-game.

Niniola set the party rolling with her performance. She waltzed into the stage with four curvy female dancers, dressed in a black bike shorts and a lemon jacket. Starting off with her hit track ‘Sicker ’ from her 2017 debut album ‘This is Me’, she sampled her dance moves. From there on, it was a dancing galore. Her feisty dance moves fetched claps and cheers. But that was not all the ‘Boda Sadiq’ crooner got. A member of the audience gave her a pencil portrait drawing of herself which she delightfully showed the crowd. An enthusiastic female fan who couldn’t hide her excitement came on stage to show her loyalty.

Niniola gladly indulged her.

Taking things a notch higher, she invited a member of the audience to perform her song ‘Designer ’ and later, had a dancing competition. Her performance attested to her ability to swoon the crowd to her beat. They begged her

for an encore but her allotted time was up.

Her performance was followed by the Mavin Records new poster boy Rema, whose entrance didn’t meet the required expectations. For some unknown reason, the young artiste decided to conceal his identity with an orange mask. The audience were confused by his act and wondered about the motive behind it. His veneer also drew the ire of the organisers. One of the coordinators kept talking to someone on the phone that they should tell the artiste to remove the mask or leave the stage. By this time, the founder of the bank, Jim Ovia was already seated at the VIP area, surrounded by cronies and security guards. Whether he was unhappy about the artiste style or not, his employees made sure that everything was carried out as planned.

Rema might be the new kid on the block with his unique blend of melodies but on stage, it took a while to swoon this particular audience. Not even when he performed the raving hit ‘Boulevard’ from his latest EP, the crowd didn’t express any fervour. Only few attempted to sing along. Their lukewarm reception indicated that the fresh-faced 19 year-old’s genrebending style is not fully embraced by all. Not until he played his popular afro-pop tunes like ‘Dumebi’ and the Bollywood influenced hit ‘Iron Man’ did the crowd started to tap their feet and throw their hands in the air.

Whatever impression Rema must have made on the audience was quickly forgotten the moment the selfacclaimed ‘Mayor of Lagos’ Mayorkun came on stage. The crowd was thrown into a frenzy when he bounced in, singing ‘Mind’, his collaborative effort with Davido, Dremo and Peruzzi. His set also featured songs such as ‘Eleko’ and ‘Mama’ and the crowd sang along with enthusiasm.

It was during his performance that the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi

Amaechi arrived at the event, joining Ovia at the VIP section.

Although Olamide who was ushered in by Phyno’s performance of ‘Fada Fada’ closed the night with a mix of his old and new vibes, it was Flavour who stole the show away. Immediately he got on stage, the ambience became charged. In his usual manner, he kicked off with ‘Finally’, the Masterkraft produced track that also featured Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie. Known for performing with a live band, Flavour smoothly segued to a saxophonic version of his popular love song ‘Ada Ada’. A saxophonist and a group of dancers in cultural costumes joined him for this performance. He switched to a fast tempo when he performed ‘Adamma’ and maintained it in the next song ‘Shake’. He engaged the crowd during this performance, asking them to open and close their hands in a suggestive manner.

Flavour displayed his dexterity with the manner in which he rendered his set. Each song performed was carefully and effortlessly done, and elicited screams and shouts from the crowd.

As an entertainer, he knew how to whet the musical appetite of his fans.

For instance, before he performed his raving hit ‘Nwa Baby’, he sang the naughty lines in the song that depicted the up and down motion of a sexual act. Even the Minister found himself glued to the stage, watching the artiste mesmerised the crowd. Flavour finally closed his set with the inspiring gospel song ‘Most High’.

Indeed, the Aspire Music Festival was a success for Zenith Bank, not only because of the artistes it paraded but also the fact that the event which was only open to staff and customers of the bank witnessed a large gathering from non-Zenith customers who for the love of music and entertainment, opened an account with the bank just to attend the event.

F R I DAY Ëž Í°ÍľËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

͹;

METRO

‌Your city life in print

Display of Culture, Tradition at Osun Osogbo Festival Kemi Olaitan ĂœĂ?ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ? ÞÒĂ? ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ“Ă–Ă–Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă–Ă–Ă? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă‘ĂœĂ‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‹Ă–Ă? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă?ÙÖÙĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă&#x;Ă– Ă?Ă&#x;Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ă‘ĂŒĂ™ Ă?Ă?Ă?ÞÓà ËÖ

Chiefs on the Iyalode and Iyaloja lines paying homage to Oba Olanipekun

Foreign tourists paying homage to Oba Olanipekun

The Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland,Iba Gani Adams, Oba Olanipekun, his Oloris and other guests

The large crowd at the groove

F

or the adherents of Osun Osogbo deity within Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria and the Diaspora, this year’s festival with the theme, “One Tradition, One Heritage and One cultural fiesta�, which grand finale came to a sensational conclusion recently, was one that would linger in the memory for a long time to come.

It was a convergence of Osun goddess devotees, masquerades culture buffs, traditional religious heads, traditional chiefs, royal fathers and foreign tourists from Brazil, Venezuela, Cuba, Japan, Europe, decked in local attire, all paying homage to the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun.

With the residents claiming that the crowd was unprecedented in the history of the festival, the crowd control was effective with no report of ugly incidence for the period that the grand finale lasted.

The festival which is synonymous with Osogbo, the Osun State capital, witnessed many activities around the city a night to the grand finale while on the d-day the road to the groove was filled with people thronging to the groove to be part of the epoch making event.

A highlight of the grand finale was the claim by some callers to the groove of appearance of a mermaid which was last seen seven years ago, a claim corroborated by the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun and some Osun devotees.

However the climax was be the grand entry of the Arugba, a girl who must be a virgin, into the groove, with the crowd trying to outdo each other to catch her glimpse, while praying to the Osun goddess, for what they want her to do for them.

At the festival, Governor Gboyega

Oyetola of Osun State assured that his administration will support the development and promotion of Osun Osogbo festival to enhance its tourism potentials and sustainability, stating that the state was seeking partnership with the federal government to optimally tap into the tourism benefits that the festival provides.

Oyetola represented by the Supervisor of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Dr.

The Osun Osogbo festival has blossomed into an international event witnessed by about a million tourists all over the world. It is our intention to develop, promote and project the Osun-Osogbo festival to global prominence to compete with other world-renowned cultural festivals. We shall transform the festival to a foreign exchange earner and a major driver of our economy through tourism

Babawale Adebisi, said he was honoured to attend the festival for the first time, disclosing that the festival was important to his government and his administration intends to transform the annual event to a foreign exchange earner for the state.

According to him, “the festival is a bond between Osun the river goddess and the people in need and the lesson in this festival is faithfulness which we need to imbibe for peace and development of the state. The Osun-Osogbo festival is important to the government and people of Osun as it is a common cultural heritage and our window and voice to the world. We are aware of the power of tourism to market our culture to the world, foster cultural communication and harmony and engender national and international peace and cooperation. “This festival has blossomed into an international event witnessed by about a million tourists all over the world. It is our intention to develop, promote and project the OsunOsogbo festival to global prominence to compete with other world-renowned cultural festivals. We shall transform the festival to a foreign exchange earner and a major driver of our economy through tourism. “This festival is very important to the government and the people of Osun as it is our cultural heritage and remains the most popular and the most regonised

by UNESCO. The government has done the renovation of the groove and we are constructing a car park to conform with the UNESCO standard. We urged our indigenes in diaspora to partner with the government to promote and project the festival for global recognition.�

The governor then congratulated the custodian of the festival, the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun and the indigenes of Osogbo for the successful hosting of this year’s festival.

Speaking, Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olaonipekun dispelled the rumour that he had sold the Osun-Osogbo deity, attributing the ugly trend to mischief being orchestrated by his enemies. He thanked all the partners and sponsors, who made the festival a success as well as dignitaries, royal fathers and people, both from Nigeria and abroad, who participated in the cultural event.

The monarch as the chief custodian of the festival went down memory lane to tell the story of how Osogbo, as a town and city, was established and how the first king was the first Osun deity worshipper.

Mr. Toye Arulogun, Managing Consultant, Osun Osogbo Festival in his speech said, “The festival worked in accordance to its theme of One Tradition, One Heritage and One cultural fiesta as people came from around the world to participate in the festival. The crowd was enormous and our crowd control mechanism worked perfectly. We are going to improve on this edition. You will see that the tradition has not been distorted despite the innovations of communicating to the global audience which led to many foreigners participating in the festival. “We introduced the Walk for Osun to sensitise the people about the festival and it worked as people from across the country and diaspora came to participate enmasse due to effective and efficient communication. We also had effective engagement with the stakeholders, sponsors, partners and the people of Osogbo. We can all see that tourism has viable economy potentials. However, we need improvement in the area of infrastructure and security. We are going to improve on this edition and making the festival more attractive and economy spinning. We thank all our sponsors and partners for their support.�

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F R I DAY Ëž Í°ÍľËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

POLSCOPE What Does Gov Dickson Want?

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Canticles‌.

When Will the Cabal Loosen its Grip on the President?

N

igerians are worried.

Very worried. And I am afraid that the end is not quite in sight.

The end of what is not in sight?

The end of the long night. The forces of darkness are delaying the break of dawn on us all as far as good and responsible governance is concerned.

You are waxing philosophical and superstitious. Are you implying that Nigeria is held down by some kind of political incubus?

Dickson

T

he words of late Professor Chinua Achebe will ever ring true. Once, he advised that those who have their palm kernel cracked for them by benevolent spirit should not forget to be grateful. Governor Seriake Dickson is one such person whose palm kernels were cracked for him by benign spirits.

As the fourth democratically elected governor, Dickson, 53, is privileged to have been the only governor who came to power with parliamentary experience having been elected into the Federal House of Representatives between 2007 and 2012. He, till date, remains the youngest elected governor of the state. But he appears to be the biggest, what with his Goliath gait.

Beside the above, Gov Dickson is also lucky to have been the only governor, democratically elected, that will serve out his two terms of four years each. None other before him, had this privilege. The first elected governor, late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha got impeached early in his second term. His successor, then Governor Goodluck Jonathan got elected as the Vice President in 2005 and so moved over to the centre. He was succeeded

by Timipre Sylva in 2008. The latter became heady to the powers made him and he was thus denied the ticket for a second term. That was how Dickson moved over to Creek Haven, the seat of government in Bayelsa State in 2012.

Although he had been challenged , Dickson had remained rooted and lucky in the political mathematics of the state.

Right now, he is preparing to pack out of Creek Havens early next year when his tenure as governor will statutorily end. As is common with Nigeria politicians, he is scheming deeply not only to produce or procure his successor, he is also desperate to remain politically relevant by wanting to go back to federal parliament, this time, to the Senate. Perhaps even more vaunting is his ambition to enthrone himself as the political capon of Bayelsa politics, in total affront to the person, status and caliber of former President Goodluck Jonathan. In simple terms, he is striving to displace Jonathan as the political godfather of Bayelsa State.

Already, his political machine, called Restoration Team, seems to be revving at high keel, having everything going for it. That caucus recently (September 3) produced the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, even though the outcome of that primaries is being challenged in court of law by one of the aspirants. The election is slated for November this year.

Last general election, his headiness made the party to lose a senatorial seat to the APC as he (Dickson) refused to agree with former President Jonathan on who to fly the PDP’s senatorial ticket in that senatorial district. Dickson imposed his own candidate and in protest, the people of the district voted for the APC candidate. And the bulky governor did not or has not learnt any lesson, prompting many to ask what exactly he wants.

This is the same Dickson who Jonathan sacrificed Sylva for. Now the falcon

cannot hear the falconer, and things are about falling apart.

Dickson has practically become cocky and self-conceited, supposing to be his own man. He forgets that the butterfly is not exactly a bird.

It is curious how politicians, especially state governors, are desperate to produce their successors. What are they hiding? Why are they desperate?

It smells of something fishy. Perhaps it is not peculiar to politicians. Maybe all African leaders. I recall how former military president, Gen Ibrahim Babangda played the political chess game with the leadership that will succeed him. He once boasted that “we don’t know those who will succeed us, but we know those who will not.�

At the end of the day, he could not control the dynamics that emerged. And till date, he yet carries the ill badge of that scheme, perhaps till death.

So back to Gov Dickson, he is set to not only manipulate the system to produce his successor, he is scheming hard to withdraw the senator representing his senatorial district in the Red chamber, Senator Lawrence Eghrudjakpor and make him the running mate of the governorship candidate of his party, so he can go replace the Urhobo man in Ijawland. Everything is all about him, even if it means upturning a running arrangement. His narrow interest must be preserved and projected. All else in the state little matter. What is a better definition of selfishness!

Listening to an audio recording of Gov Dickson, before the primaries, you have the feeling of a man who tries to play God. He speaks with an attitude of “you have no choice�. It reeks of arrogance and boastful nature.

He presents himself and his plots like that of a Deus ex machina: one who can do everything. Can somebody tell the Toru-Orua born politician that he is not God. By his plan, he intends to pull two senators out of the Red Chamber at the same time, so he can have and control a political fiefdom, where he would hold and control all the aces.

He would realize, from experiences of other politicians, that it is easier planned than executed or sustained.

Perhaps it should worry Gov Dickson that his followers and supporters are not happy with him. Many of them are threatening mass defection to the rival All Progressives Congress (APC). In fact, one of his aides, Helen Bob was so pissed by the crude political antics of Gov Dickson that she had openly pitched tent with the APC. And Gov Dickson had to sack her.

The governor had boasted that he is not fazed by the gale of defections, claiming that he experienced worse defections in 2015 when he contested against the present Minister of State for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva, as APC candidate at the time.

Dickson should be reminded that the parameters this time are different.

He muscled his way through using the powers and appurtenances of an incumbent in 2015. This time, he won’t be on the ballot. Somebody else will be. The dynamics are not exactly the same. He should stop the Machiavellian exploit.

Say anything you want. Describe it anyhow you like. What is clear is that some fellows have held this nation down and the rest of us are all struggling to extricate ourselves from the weird web they have woven around us.

God forbid! I am not under any web. I reject it! I am a free citizen, and I am under no mysterious force in operation. I am clear-sighted and clear headed to understand why things are as they are.

You are quite very carnal, and that is why you’d have difficulty in understanding the tissues of the ethereal. But if you are even a little more discerning, do you need a priest or prophet to decode what is happening to us all in this country? Is it not self-evident that we are all being held down by some queer metaphysical powers?

I give you a few examples. How do we explain that the oncefeared Gen Buhari has become so pliant, soft and susceptible to massive manipulation that his own government has been wrested from his hands, and he merely nods to what the real men in charge suggest?

I think you are being fetish and mischievous. The country runs on policies and principles of good governance, not on juju-rail.

Are you saying that this country is not being run by President Muhammadu Buhari? Is that what you are implying?

Do even the infants in the kindergarten schools not know this?

Really?

Go and ask Reuben Abati when he did an exposĂŠ on the voodoo vibes in the villa.

Many people voted for Buhari in 2015 because they saw in him, the messianic streak; they saw him as one who would wipe away all the forces that have held Nigeria down all these years. That he will clean the Augean stable.

But five years after, the mount of filth on the stable is overwhelming Mr president is not only confused, he has begun to see the filth now as decorations that must be preserved.

Were it not so, all the noise and hullabaloo about the evil grip of the cabal should have made him to do something. Rather, he preserves and protects the cabal, just so he is seen that he is not deferring to the hue and cry of the masses. Do you know the cabal organized and sponsored the protest against themselves recently in Abuja and Kaduna, so Mr President will become further determined in retaining them (the cabal)?

What kind of leader gets that

Buhari

averse to the clamour of the people he leads?

Have you asked yourself why the so-called trial of the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, the famous government grasscutter, has not gone anywhere?

Would anything ever happen in that direction? Is this the General Buhari that waved all the swords against corrupt persons?

Are you saying that the country is being run by a proxy crew even as Mr President is no longer sick and is on ground?

Don’t ask me. Do your research. Ok, let me ask you: are you aware that the First lady, Mrs Aisha Buhari has practically relocated out of the country to London, after shouting herself hoax over the grip of the cabal on Mr President?

She’s given up!

Go and check your facts. The First Lady had been a high networth businesswoman. You never can tell if her trips to London are business-oriented.

Don’t be deceived. Let me tell you. The cabal members are kitted for a kill. They have tamed and arrested the President’s prowess. Their strategy is to frustrate as many people as possible who could redirect Mr President to the brighter side of governance, so they (cabal members) will operate freely and unchallenged in the business of dwarfing the Nigerian project.

Are you still wondering why they recently came after the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, a man whose name and image ordinarily collocates with integrity and propriety? Can’t you see how the pastor –prof is now struggling to redeem his image, all so he would have no time to redirect Mr president to great ideals?

But the Vice President is point-

ing at one Timi Frank, a political urchin, as his chief traducer and not the Villa cabal.

You know when trouble comes, it comes like a package. The Timi Frank menace is the one that is easier to deal with, just as the Villa cabal are like angry idols that you need all the tact to approach and appease. I can tell you that the heat on the Vice President is being kindled by the politics of 2023, which the cabal is bent on controlling. (in a hushed voice) But I also heard the Vice President wants to run as president in 2023 and that he has even hired a campaign office, got some ground staff for preliminary works. I also heard that his godfather, that Bourdillon buddy, is angry that his boy is being over ambitious, and not even clearing with him.

So he (BB) too, may have caused the shaking of the table a little.

You know this is age of digital politics. The more you look, the less you see.

One thing sure is that there is intense power play by the silent cabal, led by one old man who works very close to the president.

They are controlling all levers of power in the country. They determine who gets what and when. Do you know they are behind the recent minor cabinet reshuffle that relocated Festus Keyamo from the Ministry of Niger Delta to Ministry of Labour and Productivity?

But Mr President endorses all actions taken in the Villa.

Hmmmm, that’s on the surface. Look, too much water has gone under the bridge. And we notice normalcy only when the mesmerizing tide is low.

Let us invite General Yakubu Gowon to re-start that his prayer group--- Nigeria Prays. We need it now, more than ever before.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2019 • T H I S D AY

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

British Parliament Blocks Recess for Conservative Party Conference British lawmakers on Thursday rejected a motion by Conservative Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government for a parliamentary recess during his party’s four-day annual conference, which opens on Sunday.

Lawmakers in the elected house, the Commons, voted by 306 to 289 against the government’s

proposed shutdown, one day after they resumed sitting following the Supreme Court’s ruling that Johnson’s earlier suspension of parliament for four weeks had been unlawful.

Johnson is scheduled to speak on Wednesday at the final session of the Conservative conference in the northern city of Manchester.

The gathering is expected to be overshadowed by Britain’s political crisis and the parliamentary impasse over Brexit.

In a written message to conference delegates, Johnson said he remained determined to take Britain out of the European Union on Oct. 31.

“And make no mistake, delivering Brexit, then making it work for Britain, is what we’re in government to do.

“So leave the gloom, the doom, and the predictions of cataclysm to other parties.

“Together, we’re putting Britain back on the road to a brighter

future,” Johnson urged the delegates.

Centrist and pro-EU Conservatives are expected raise their opposition to Johnson’s insistence that Britain must leave the EU, with or without a deal, on Oct. 31.

Many Conservatives also

object to his expulsion of 21 pro-EU lawmakers – including several senior figures – from the parliamentary group of the 160,000-member party, after they voted against the government on a bill that empowered parliament to prevent a no-deal Brexit.

Somali Military Kills 30 al-Shabab Militants in Southern Region The Somali military confirmed on Thursday that its forces have killed 30 al-Shabab militants and injured 40 others in an offensive in the country’s Lower Shabelle region on Wednesday.

Hassan Aden Hashi, deputy commander of the April 12 Unit of the Somali army, told journalists that the forces carried out a planned operation on a base used by the militants in an area between El Salini and Dhanane villages in Lower Shabelle.

“Our forces inflicted heavy casualties on the militants during the operation.

“We killed 30 of them and injured 40 others,” Hashi said.

He added that the forces also seized three battle vehicles and detained some members of the terrorist group during the offensive.

Local inhabitants said there was an intensive gun battle in the town which lasted for several hours.

The latest military offensive came four days after government forces killed 13 al-Shabab militants in a gun battle in the same area.

The southern regions of Somalia have become a battle ground of government forces and al-Shabab after the militants were chased out of the capital city of Mogadishu in Aug. 2011 by African Union forces and the Somali army.

ON THE GLOBAL STAGE...

L-R: Asia Correspondent, CBS News, Mr. Ramy Inocencio; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Mayor of Athens, Dr. Kostas Bakoyannis; and CEO, World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), Mr. Stavros Yiannouka, during the plenary session of the 2019 Concordia Annual Summit at the Grand Hyatt, New York City...yesterday

French, World Leaders Pay Tribute to Former President UNGA: Remove Sanctions on Zimbabwe, President Jacques Chirac Political leaders in France and abroad paid tribute on Thursday to the country’s former president Jacques Chirac after his death at the age of 86.

The National Assembly and Senate in Paris interrupted their debates to stand in silence in memory of the conservative statesman who led France from 1995 to 2007.

Chirac, who was admired by many abroad for his staunch opposition to the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, “is now part of France’s history,” National Assembly president Richard Ferrand said.

Former Socialist president Francois Hollande said his predecessor was a fighter, a humanist, a man of culture and a European.

“For 12 years, he presided over France with the intention of making it respected throughout the world,” Hollande wrote in a statement.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Chirac had been a “stellar partner and friend” to Germany.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a letter to Chirac’s widow Bernadette, paid tribute to his “great personal contribution” to friendship between the two countries.

At home, left and right were united in paying homage to Chirac, with many recalling his historic acknowledgement of the French state’s role in the wartime round-up and deportation of Jewish people to Nazi death camps.

“I think he was one of the last giants of French political

life,” the conservative president of the Upper France region, Xavier Bertrand, who served under him as a minister, said.

Chirac had “defended, with panache, the very particular place of France during the great international disorder that followed the end of the Cold War,” his conservative successor as president, Nicolas Sarkozy, wrote on Twitter.

The mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, ordered flags on the city’s building lowered to half-mast in memory of Chirac, who was the city’s mayor for 18 years starting in 1977.

He was the first to take up the position when it was reinstated after being abolished more than a century earlier.

Chirac also knew many political setbacks, including the 2005 rejection by French voters of a proposed constitution for the European Union.

Later the same year, he suffered a minor stroke, and in the closing months of the year the country saw severe rioting by frustrated youths from minority backgrounds.

In 2011, already in poor health, he received a two-year suspended sentence over allegations that, as mayor of Paris in the 1990s, he put party members on the city payroll without them actually working.

But those failings were put aside on Thursday as even the far right and hard left joined in tributes to the former president.

“He loved France more than others after him. And for that, we are grateful to him,” radical leftwing leader Jean-Luc Melenchon tweeted.

Mnangagwa Begs West

Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa pleaded with the West to remove economic sanctions on the Southern African country.

Mnangagwa made the called while addressing the 74th UN General Assembly in New York.

The Zimbabwe president said that the embargo, which was imposed at the turn of the century after Zimbabwe embarked on land reforms, was not only holding back economic development but also a violation of human rights.

The EU and the US imposed targeted sanctions on the country, ostensibly to push for adherence to the rule of law and human rights in Zimbabwe, among other reasons.

The sanctions, which include trade restrictions and withdrawal of bilateral and multilateral financial support, are estimated to have cost the country nearly 100 billion dollars.

Mnangagwa, who took over the presidency from the late Robert Mugabe in 2017, said that the country wanted to turn a new leaf and improve relations with all nations so that it would re-integrate into the global family of nations.

Official news agency New Ziana reported on Thursday that the Zimbabwe leader said that his government was now more focused on reviving the economy and development in general, but that its efforts were being constrained by the West’s longstanding sanctions.

“Zimbabwe is in transition and determined to overcome the reality that we were a collapsed economy with a collapsed currency, due to the illegal economic sanctions imposed on our economy.

“Since I took over the leadership

of Zimbabwe, much has been accomplished with indicative recovery, stabilisation, and growth.

“These achievements are in spite of the albatross of the illegal economic sanctions. These sanctions constitute a denial of

the human rights of the people of Zimbabwe to develop and improve their quality of life.

“Furthermore, the sanctions are slowing down our progress, inhibiting our economic recovery and punishing the poorest and most

vulnerable,” he said.

Mnangagwa lauded the Southern African Development Community and the African Union, among others, for standing in solidarity with Zimbabwe over the sanctions.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2019 • T H I S D AY

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T H I S D AY Ëž Ëœ Í°ÍľËœ 2019

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

ReportTransactions Involving Persons, Entities Under Surveillance, CBNTells Banks Obinna Chima Financial institutions in the country under the surveillance of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have been told to increase surveillance and report all transactions involving persons and entities designated under the United Nations Security Council Resolution.

Banks were asked to carry out this action without any delay.

The CBN stated this in a letter to all banks titled: “Suspicious Transaction Reporting on United Nations Security Council Resolutions on Proliferation Financing.�

The letter signed by the Director,

Financial Policy and Regulations Department, CBN, J.M. Gana, dated September 20th, a copy of which was posted on the central bank’s website.

It explained: “Further to the provisions of Regulation 11 of the CBN AML/CFT Regulations, 2013 and our previous circulars on targeted financial sanctions, we write to remind all financial institutions on the need to increase surveillance and report all transactions involving persons and entities designated under the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1718 and all other subsequent resolutions relating to the

Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). “Financial institutions are advised to continuously screen both customers and transactions against global sanction lists and stop all transactions; freeze, without delay, all funds, owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by individuals and entities designated by the UN Sanctions Committees.�

In addition, the banking sector regulator stressed that all terminated transactions or funds frozen pursuant to the UNSCR must be immediately, reported to the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).

Polaris, Wema Commit to Sustainability Polaris Bank and Wema Bank have joined the United Nations, and other leading banks across the world, to become a Founding Signatory of the UNEP FI Principles for Responsible Banking as part of their commitment to climate action and sustainability.

The banks disclosed this in separate statements made available to THISDAY. The launch and signing ceremony of the UNEP FI Principles for Responsible Banking at the United Nations headquarters in New York, United States.

A statement quoted Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/ CEO, Tokunbo Abiru, to have said: “This momentous action to become a founding signatory of the UNEP FI Principles for Responsible Banking, is borne out of the need to have and practice tenets, values and principles that enable us as a financial institution to exist and excel amidst constant market changes. “We believe that responsible business practices or principles is not just the right choice, but the only choice, knowing this will ensure longterm societal investments needed for sustainable development; contribute to financial stability and guarantee the success and continuity of the economy.�

In addition, Abiru noted that, “Over the years, we have collaborated with both Government agencies and non-governmental organisations to fight tropical diseases, continually provide

financial education across all levels through financial literacy and we have also taken steps to ensure our direct and indirect actions as a responsible Bank do not impact the environment negatively. Hence the alignment is a journey we have begun and are fully committed to.�

On its part, Wema Bank explained that as expressed in the Principles for Responsible Banking, it aims to contribute to an inclusive society founded on human dignity, equality and the sustainable use of natural resources for clients, customers and businesses thrive. “At Wema Bank, the journey has started with our sustainability vision of developing “Digital Solutions for Societal Impact,� the bank’s MD/CEO, Ademola Adebise said. “The landscape is wide, but we believe that with the use of technology and through innovation, daily improvements can be made to the society that we operate in. “As a deliberate strategy, we will continue to drive our corporate sustainability initiatives with a focus on reducing our environmental footprint, promoting responsible business practices and creating shared value for our stakeholders. “Our long-term aspiration is to become a responsible stakeholder in the growing digital economy, with capacity for increased innovation to identify untapped opportunities in the market space and impact positively

on the society, environment and business,� Adebise added.

According to the Wema Bank boss, by signing up to the Principles, the bank commits to using its products, services and relationships to support and accelerate the fundamental changes in the society to enable shared prosperity for both current and future generations.

By signing them, Wema Bank disclosed that it has pledged to be transparent on both a positive and negative impact on people and planet. “The bank will focus where it has the greatest impact – on its core business – and set, publish and implement ambitious targets to scale up positive and address any negative impacts in line with global and local goals. “The signing will avail Wema Bank the opportunity for an effective framework to systematically identify and seize new business opportunities created by the emerging sustainable development economy, while at the same time enabling the bank to effectively identify and address related risks,� the statement added. To the Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Inger Andersen, “a banking industry that plans for the risks associated with climate change and other environmental challenges can not only drive the transition to low-carbon and climate-resilient economies, it can benefit from it.

400 KLD Plant, Jamata, Lokoja

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS Money Supply (M3)

31,794,803.44

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

6,333,064.28

Money Supply (M2)

25,461,739.17

-- Quasi Money

14,773,076.98

-- Narrow Money (M1)

10,688,662.18

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,711,763.59

---- Demand Deposits

8,976,898.59

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

Nigeria will finally attain sufficiency in ethanol production as Unicane Industries Limited, Lokoja, has reiterated that the completion of its current plant expansion will be by the second quarter of next year.

Upon completion, Unicane, a subsidiary of the country’s pioneer and leading ethanol producer, Unikem Industries Limited, will produce 400,000 litres of Extra Neutral Alcohol (ENA) per day.

According to a statement by an Executive Director of Unicane Industries Limited, Mr. Uzor Kalu, the industrial group whose presence in Nigeria exceeds nine decades, has continuously led and defined the ethanol industry, by investing tens of billions of naira in plant and machinery, built capacity and evolved from import reprocessing to upstream integration of local sourcing of raw materials of cassava, cashew apples and sugar cane molasses.

The executive director said that in 2013, Unicane acquired an expanse of land in Jamata Village, an uncharted area of Lokoja Local Government of Kogi State, to set up a state-of-the-art local cassava fermentation-to-distillation plant with 400,000 litres per day capacity of ENA from 100 per cent local raw materials.

Kalu, stated that the huge industrial development which commenced its first phase of production in 2018, has revolutionised cassava farming in Kogi State and its environs, turning cassava from a mere subsistence crop to a lucrative cash crop providing tremendous economic power to the farmers, a feat which he said resonates highly with the federal government’s policy drive to deepen the agricultural sector for improved national economic gains.

He listed other great benefits

of the development to include import substitution, foreign exchange savings, thousands of direct and support employment opportunities and government revenue generation.

He stated that when Unicane’s ENA output of 400,000 litres per day come Q2 2020, is added to the production of Unikem Industries Limited, the group would achieve a combined daily ENA output of 700,000 litres, which would translate to an annual capacity of 210 million litres in bulk and packaged drums with a product quality that compares with the highest international standards.

Combined with the production of other locally based manufacturers, Kalu stated that total national ENA capacity would far exceed national consumption, eliminating the need for ethanol imports in Nigeria, and indeed feed exports to other African countries.

18,990,400.78

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

12,804,402.66

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

26,062,986.22

---- Credit to Government (Net)

2,980,229.66

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

7,093,619.43

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

-4,144,571.43

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

23,082,756.56

--Other Assets Net

13,258,583.57

Reserve Money (Base Money

6,811,192.37

--Currency in Circulation

2,100,129.91

--Banks Reserves

4,366,259.05

Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

Unicane Industries Highlights Benefits of Plant Expansion to Nigeria

(MILLION NAIRA)

NOVEMBER 2018

Inter-Bank Call Rate

March 2018 15.16

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

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

Ëž Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂŁ ÙÖÓĂ?ĂŁ Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ě‹ ͯ͹Ϲ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE Ëœ ͰͲ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

The price of OPEC basket of fourteen crudes stood at $62.35 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $63.93 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 Ëœ Í°ÍľËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

MARKET NEWS

Honeywell Flour Mills to Sustain Revenue Growth, Capacity Expansion Goddy Egene Chairman of Honeywell Flour Mills Plc (HFMP), Oba Otudeko has said the company will sustain growth in revenues through innovation and capacity expansion. He also assured stakeholders that the future of the business would be shaped by innovation, introduction of new and unique food products while maintaining its commitment to increasing local content.

This promise was made

yesterday by the company’s Chairman Dr. Oba Otudeko, at its 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lagos.

Addressing shareholders at the 10th annual general meeting (AGM) in Lagos, Otudeko said HFMP remained focused on growth and was committed to entrenching itself in the markets where it currently operates while capturing new markets. “My conviction that ours is a company of the future is borne out of the knowledge

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

that we are making significant investments in organic growth and expansion which is cardinal to meeting the needs of our growing customer base and securing future earnings,� he said. Speaking on some of the measures the company has employed to promote efficiency and growth, Otudeko said: “We have increased our capability and measurement of external market trends, and we regularly collate customer and consumer insights to better

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

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

develop category and brand strategies. Our strategy focuses on investing in markets and segments which we identify as attractive because we are confident that we can secure profitable growth and build further competitive advantage.�

Also speaking, the Managing Director, HFMP, Lanre Jaiyeola, assured shareholders that the company would strengthen revenue by expanding its portfolio and marketing new products tailored to consumers’ taste,

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

nutritional needs, and pockets. “Following deep research work on Nigeria’s consumer behavior and needs, we are in a position to produce safe, healthy and affordable food products for all Nigerians�, Jaiyeola said.

For the financial year ended March 2019, the company’s revenue increased by four per cent to N74.4 billion, total assets increased by 10 percent to N137.5 billion, while the company had a gross profit margin of 15 per cent.

O F

Operating profit reduced by 58.7 per cent to N3.9 billion, reflecting the major impact the traffic situation in Apapa and environs had on the evacuation of finished goods to customer locations.

Meanwhile, the equities market gained 1.09 per cent yesterday as the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index closed her at 27,579.85, while market capitalisation added N144.5 billion to be at N13.4 trillion.

2 6 / 0 9 / 2 0 1 9 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

44

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS

Transcorp Hotels Retains Positive A- (NG) GCR Rating Goddy Egene Transcorp Hotels Plc, the hospitality subsidiary of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc (Transcorp) and owner of Transcorp Hilton Abuja and Transcorp Hotels Calabar, has retained its national scale ratings at A-(NG) and A2(NG) in the long

term and short term respectively, with the outlook accorded as stable. Also, the Series 1 N10 billion Fixed Rate Bond and Series 2 N9.8 billion Fixed Rate Bond got A-(NG), stable outlook rating.

According to GCR, the rating reflects Transcorp Hotels ability to maintain its market position

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

as a leading brand in Nigeria’s hospitality industry, supported by the major renovation and facilities upgrade at Transcorp Hilton Abuja (THA) and the subsequent improvement in pricing and occupancy rate. The available support to Transcorp Hotels as a member of Transcorp and the partnership with Hilton

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 25Sep-2019, unless otherwise stated.

Worldwide Limited is considered a rating positive.

In the report released in August of 2019, GCR said: “Following the upgrade at THA and the accompanying repricing of the hotel facilities in full year (FY) 2018, revenue improved across all service lines, with rooms and food and beverages rising 26 per

cent and 28 per cent respectively.

Per management, the company is currently exploring other opportunities and add-on services that could be offered to boost overall earnings going forward.

The average occupancy rate in first quarter (1Q) 2019 stood at about 61 per cent, albeit still well ahead of the industry average of

53 per cent. Revenue from room lodging grew by a moderate five per cent in 1Q while food and other services rose 18 per cent and 23 per cent respectively. ” GCR in its report affirmed that Transcorp Hotels demonstrated a stable outlook in its businesses and the ability to maintain a positive rating in the longer term.

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 140.17 142.09 -10.90% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 12.74% Nigeria International Debt Fund 272.71 272.71 -0.19% 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 0.88 0.88 4.40% ACAP Income Funds 0.77 0.77 35.13% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.32% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.37 2.40 6.72% 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 14.22 14.65 -14.31% ARM Discovery Fund 328.41 338.31 -7.92% ARM Ethical Fund 28.04 28.89 -0.69% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.36% 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 92.77 93.42 -8.32% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.60% 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 1.86 1.86 10.91% 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 13.63% Paramount Equity Fund 12.10 12.21 2.49% Women's Investment Fund 108.06 108.78 4.37% 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 11.92% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 95.54 96.24 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 96.40 97.27 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 N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 1,244.32 1,245.09 11.18% FBN BALANCED FUND 139.97 140.90 -1.97% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 11.97% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional 119.84 120.18 8.40% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 120.14 120.48 8.93% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A FIRST CITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD fcamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcamltd.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.71% Legacy Debt Fund 3.54 3.54 9.14% Legacy Equity Fund 1.05 1.07 -14.16% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.07 1.07 3.79% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 2,994.49 3,025.35 0.35% Coral Income Fund 3,008.62 3,008.62 9.79% FSDH Treasury Bills Fund 100.00 100.00 12.59% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 11.16% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 110.45 111.48 2.54% 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 11.67% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.16 2.18 0.10% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 15.80% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 129.55 129.36 3.55% 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 1.16 1.18 5.74% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,122.04 1,122.04 9.94% 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 9.77 9.85 -8.62% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 11.12% 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 1.29 1.32 5.07% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.99 12.10 7.55% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.22% 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 123.06 123.12 1.72% 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 1.03 1.03 10.45% 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 2,358.05 2,369.27 1.85% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 205.23 205.23 7.94% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.83 0.84 -12.11% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 266.89 267.00 10.02% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 144.26 145.84 -11.58% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.12% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 7,477.72 7,558.24 -11.97% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.14 1.14 5.60% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 100.63 100.63 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 N/A N/A N/A United Capital Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A United Capital Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A United Capital Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A United Capital Eurobond Fund N/A N/A N/A United Capital Wealth for Women Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 9.86 10.02 -6.04% Zenith Ethical Fund 11.12 11.29 -6.95% Zenith Income Fund 22.30 22.30 10.35% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.99%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

5.40 117.09 53.10

-44.85% 5.40% 2.63%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

8.21 86.61 69.55

8.31 88.48 70.88

-17.33% -26.15% -21.54%

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

3.35 5.29 11.80 10.73 148.92

3.39 5.37 11.90 10.93 150.92

-16.06% -30.45% -19.18% -13.07% 12.71%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

108.34

17.40%

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.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

45

NEWSEXTRA

Southern, Middle Belt Reject NLTP, Water Bill Segun James Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has rejected the new National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), saying it is RUGA in disguise.

The SMBLF said it was worried that instead of mobilising national consensus to confront the monumental tragedies confronting the country, the federal government has occupied itself with policies that are divisive and smack of domination and conquest of sections of the country by another section.

The group in a statement signed

by Messrs Yinka Odumakin, South West; Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, South East; Senator Bassey Henshaw, South-south; and Dr. Isuwa Dogo, Middle Belt, restated the rejection of SMBLF “to the use of the collective resources of Nigerians to convert herdsmen, majority of whom are non-Nigerians, from nomadic to sedentary lifestyles while doing their private business that has nothing to do with the rest of us beyond being their market”.

“It is akin to government making budgetary allocations to Coca Cola to produce drinks to sell to Nigerians. Apart from the plan not making any economic sense for the country there are other fundamental problems it raises.

The leaders cited the issue of citizenship, which was revealed by the Bauchi Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, who claimed that the Fulanis from all over the

world would benefit from the scheme.

“The Fulani man is a global or African person. He moves from Gambia to Senegal and his nationality is Fulani... So, we cannot just close our border and say the Fulani man is not a Nigerian,” the governor was quoted as saying.

The group therefore asked: “why are we closing our border with Benin Republic where there are many people of Yoruba origin there? Are Igbos who are aborigines in Haiti to come to Nigeria without consular services?

What is the contribution of those Fulani imports to the development of Nigeria to come and live on our resources when our citizens are the poorest on earth? Why is it difficult to apply common sense in our inter-ethnic relations in Nigeria?”

This position of the Bauchi State governor, SMBLF said showed clearly that NLTP would only “escalate the clashes between the indigenous communities and cattle settlers as experiences in Southern and Middle Belt areas of Nigeria have shown that the Fulani imports do not assimilate into the ways of lives of Nigerians in those parts of the country where they reside. They live apart from the locals and set up communities with alien culture that disrupts the cultural flow of the indigenes.

“The subterfuge of the whole deal is exposed in that while government officials deceive Nigerians that the plan will stop open grazing for ranching,

House Sets up Committee to Investigate Oil Theft Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja House of Representatives yesterday resolved to set up an ad-hoc committee to ascertain the quantity of oil that is stolen on a daily basis and those responsible for such theft in the country.

The committee would also be mandated to determine the volume of oil extracted in the country on a daily basis, determine the quantity sold at the internal markets and what is consumed locally.

The decision followed the adoption of a motion on oil theft in Nigeria moved by Hon.

Chukwuma Umeoji, representing Aguata Federal Constituency in Anambra State.

Umeoji had noted that Nigeria loses about N5 trillion yearly from oil theft, an amount which he said the government desperately needs to finance the budget.

About 22 million barrels of crude oil valued at about N1.3 trillion were stolen in the Niger Delta in 2019 alone, he alleged.

According to him, “Oil theft is not only an economic loss but also causes environmental damage due to breaches on oil pipelines and these incidents are on the upsurge.”

Body Mass Index Now Criterion for Promotion, Says Navy Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa The Nigerian Navy has declared that it would make the Body Mass Index (BMI), one of the major criteria for promoting its personnel and allocating courses to its officers and men. The BMI is the measurement of a person’s weight with respect to his or her height. It also indicates a person’s total body fat, with normal range falling between 18.5 and 24.9.

The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Central Naval Command, Yenagoa, Rear Admiral Saidu Garba, made this declaration yesterday during the maiden edition of a wellness lecture with the theme: “Harnessing Good Health Through Prescribed Medical Lifestyle” at the

command’s headquarters in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Garba urged officers to take the issue of fitness seriously so that they could benefit from the wide range of welfare available.

He explained that the lecture was a proof that the Nigerian Navy placed a lot of emphasis on the physical and mental health of its personnel, adding that the programme was packaged to enable personnel to appreciate the need to be medically and mentally fit to undertake all operations.

“The Nigerian Navy places emphasis on physical, mental and medical fitness of its personnel and this is in line with the fact that we want to ensure that they are certified okay to undertake every operations required of them.

option one in it provides for the establishment of corridors for migrant cattle with feeding and watering points along the routes. This is as stark as the lie that “livestock” includes other sources of meat. The entire plan is about cattle and herdsmen.

The leaders also rejected the

Water Resources Bill, which is “a Bill for an Act to Establish a Regulatory Framework for the Water Resources Sector in Nigeria, Provide for the Equitable and Sustainable Redevelopment, Management, Use and Conservation of Nigeria’s Surface Water and Groundwater

Resources and for Related Matter.”

“This bill seeks to abrogate all existing laws and institutions governing the management and control of water resources nationwide and replace them with new ones in a manner that gives the President, through the Minister of Water Resources, the power to control the

nation’s rivers (especially those that pass through more than one state), lakes and underground water.”

The leaders insisted that the Waterways Bill is another landgrabbing move like RUGA by ethnic supremacists who are working against the unity of the country.

WORKING FOR THE PEOPLE...

R-L: Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Deputy Governor Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Chairman, State PDP, Felix Obuah, and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works , Dr. Walter Ndu, during the inauguration of four roads in Rumuepirikom Community in the state... yesterday

Caverton Boss Donates Medical Laboratory to Lagos College of Medicine The Lagos State College of Medicine (LASCOM) has commended the Chairman of Caverton Offshore Support Group, Mr. Remi Makanjuola, for donating a multi-million naira Molecular Biology Laboratory to the medical institute through his Caverton Foundation.

Makanjuola donated the stateof-the-art facility to the institute as part of his commitment to improving the health sector through such facility, which is required for easy and faster

diagnosis.

The acting Provost of LASCOM, Prof. Anthonia Ogbera, made the commendation yesterday during the unveiling of the facility at the Ikeja base of the college.

The presence of the equipment in LASCOM has put the institute among the league of medical colleges with diagnosis facilities of global standard.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ogbera said the institute was grateful for the kind gesture shown them by the Makanjuola

family, saying his intervention with the medical facility came at the right time.

“And now, we have seen a family who are so magnanimous, selfless. They value education so much and they are willing to donate building, equipment. It is laudable and we are grateful.

Coincidentally, this is our 20th anniversary as a college.,” Ogbera said.

In her remarks, the wife of the donor, Mrs Yoyin Makanjuola, expressed her family’s delight for

their contribution to the society, saying, “the best gift you can give to a man is good health as the popular saying says: ‘Health is wealth”.

Also commending Makanjuola, the Associate Professor of Hematology, LASCOM, Dr. Akinbami Akinsegun, extolled the virtue of the Makanjuola’s family, saying, through the donation, the family had made the institute to be among the best medical schools with facilities of global class.

Buhari, Fayemi Extol Afenifere Patriarch, Fasanmi’sVirtues at 94 Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari and Governor of Ekiti State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, have congratulated a leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural and political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Ayorinde Fasanmi on his 94th birthday, today, September 27, 2019, saying he has upheld Chief

Obafemi Awolowo’s legacies.

A statement by the president’s spokesman, Mr. Femi Adesina, said Buhari commended Fasanmi for consistently projecting the noble and progressive ideas of Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

“As a legislator, who served in the House of Representatives and Senate, the President believes Pa Fasanmi’s focus on people has shaped his life philosophy and politics, noting that government

can only remain relevant when it caters for the needs of the vulnerable and voiceless.

“President Buhari extols Pa Fasanmi’s courage in standing for democratic governance and fighting for democratic ideals and values, praying that the Almighty God will grant him longer life, good heath and strength to keep serving the nation,” the statement said.

Fayemi’s message of

felicitation was conveyed in a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications, Segun Dipe.

The governor extolled the virtues of the nonagenarian, describing him as a true Awoist, foremost nationalist, a committed Afenifere Patriarch and a man of impeccable character, whose political trajectory was without blemish.

GreenHubAfrica Partners LASEPA to Tackle Waste Pollution GreenHubAfrica calls all citizens of Nigeria to join the movement towards an environmental sustainable nation with a cleanup campaign to raise awareness to the depreciating state of the environment.

The cleanup exercise, in honour of the International Coastal Cleanup Day, World Clean-up Day, and Zero Emissions Day, held at two locations, Sura market, on Lagos Island and the Kid’s

Beach Garden, Elegushi Beach on September 21, 2019.

Founder of GreenHubAfrica, Mr. Henry Bassey expressed how the media platform’s target audience is made up of 3Ps of People, the Public Sector and the Private Sector. “This forms the basis for GreenHubAfrica’s public sector partnership with Lagos State Government; and its strategic Private Sector partners: Sterling Bank, DuPont, KidsBeachGarden,

Let’s Do It Nigeria, Clickatell and FABE International”.

Bassey added that the clean-up campaign was designed to raise awareness on the aftermath of neglecting the environment, and helping communities to live a fulfilling life. He said “As GreenHubAfrica dives deeper into the Nigeria’s need for progression in sustainable development, the media platform has identified Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) as

a strategic partner to achieve the state government’s vision of a cleaner and healthier Lagos State.’’

Bassey further noted that with over 1,000 people in attendance at the street and beach cleanup where 15,750kg and 160kg of waste was collected respectively, GreenHubAfrica’s vision for a sustainable nation is becoming a reality as volunteers contributed selflessly to the cleaning up of waste pollution at these locations.

46

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

FRIDAYSPORTS

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

NFF Monitoring Tomori Situation, Says Pinnick Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The President of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Amaju Pinnick has disclosed that the federation is monitoring Chelsea defender, Fikayo Tomori, and will not rule out an eventual move to convince the player to switch his allegiance to the Nigerian national team.

Tomori, who won the FIFA

Fikayo Tomori

U20 World Cup for England in 2017 in South Korea, when they defeated Venezuela 1-0, was born in Calgary, Canada to Nigerian parents.

The central defender has commanded a regular spot in the Chelsea starting squad under Frank Lampard this season.

The 21-year-old player alerted the Nigerian federation to his availability when he declared to a British newspaper that he would consider playing for any of England, Canada and Nigeria.

“I’m a citizen of all three (countries) so we’ll see. I was born in Canada and lived there about seven or eight months old. My family is Nigerian, obviously I live in England. It’s nice to have that. I can’t play Under-21 football anymore so the last international break I didn’t get called up to anyone. Next one maybe we’ll see,” he told the Daily Mail.

But when contacted over the phone by THISDAY on Wednesday night, Pinnick

Court Declares NFF Corruption Case ‘Political,’ Adjourned Till Nov. 5

The corruption charge brought against the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) by the disbanded Special Presidential Investigative Panel (SPIP) witnessed a twist at the Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday after Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu declared that the case was political and she was not interested in politics.

The judge adjourned the matter to November 5, 2019, with all the signals pointing to the fact that the case may be dismissed on that day.

Although Justice Ojukwu was not happy with the absence of the five NFF executives in court, after being briefed by counsel to the NFF, Barrister Sani Katu, she declared that she saw nothing in the case and that the defendants should have shown up in court.

Barrister Katu informed the judge also that the President of Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, has dissolved the SPIP that brought the case before the court and in the absence of the prosecutor, the case file is now with the Attorney-General of the Federation with other files are also in transition.

Justice Ojukwu stated that if the defendants had appeared in court, and in the absence of the scrapped SPIP, she would have released the defendants and dismiss the case.

Speaking after the adjournment, Senior State Counsel in the Ministry of Justice, Barrister Abubakar Musa, said that with the pronouncement that SPIP is no longer functional and disbanded

by President Buhari, every case brought by the SPIP is now under the office of the Attorney General of the Federation.

“According to the instructions of the President of Federal Republic of Nigeria, the AGF is taking over the matter and all the files are supposed to be in transition,” Barrister Musa noted.

“The court cannot be blamed.

The Attorney General of the Federation is the chief law officer of the state and he is bound to be sure that the Federal Republic of Nigeria obey the court order, but he is not aware of the order and if he is not aware of it, you cannot say he is bound to bring the defendants,” concludes the state counsel.

confirmed Nigeria’s interest in Tomori.

He said that the NFF was already doing its homework and had launched a subtle approach to sway the defender to accept the overtures to represent the Super Eagles.

Pinnick, however, disclosed

that they had been working on the agenda without going about it through the media.

The NFF President admitted that the federation had learnt a bitter lesson from the unsuccessful approach they made to Tammy Abraham, few years, when the young

Omeruo recalled to fold

Alex Iwobi

who represented Nigeria at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles and won a bronze medal at the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, Australia, said he is convinced that Real One will win because he is a better boxer.

“I worked with both of them in the national camp and I know them well.

Oladosu, I can tell you, is a fantastic boxer. He is really good and I believe will defeat Joseph,” he said.

He admitted that Joseph is also good, but relies solely

in London.

“I can tell you we are doing something about Fikayo Tomori. But we don’t want to do it in the media. We don’t want this to go wrong like the Tammy Abraham case,” Pinnick disclosed last Wednesday night.

Ramon Azeez back to Eagles after five years

Azeez Back to Eagles after Five Years as Rohr Invites 22 Others for Brazil Omeruo, Abdullahi, Awaziem also recalled for the friendly in Singapore Duro Ikhazuagbe Ramon Azeez’s brilliant start to the Spanish LaLiga season has earned him a recall to the Super Eagles after more than five years as Nigeria announced a 23-man team for the international friendly against Brazil in Singapore on October 13.

The Granada midfielder scored against Lionel Messi’s Barcelona in the 2-0 defeat of the Catalan giants few days ago to increase his rating before handlers of the senior Nigerian team.

The Super Eagles’ latest squad contains three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders and seven attackers.

There is a first call-up for Slavia Prague striker Peter Olayinka even as the usual suspects dominated Coach Gernot Rohr’s squad for the tango with the Selecao.

Apart from Captain Ahmed Musa who is down with injury and Brighton’s Leon Balogun, Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi, West Brom’s Semi Ajayi, Stoke City’s Oghenekaro Etebo and Everton’s Alex Iwobi are the English-based players named on the roster.

Everton’s Alex Iwobi, Oghenekaro Etebo of Stoke City and Scotland –based Rangers forward, Joseph Ayodele-Aribo, who scored on his debut against Ukraine, are all back in midfield, with Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Samuel Kalu, Paul Onuachu and Emmanuel Dennis all back in the frontline.

Goalkeepers Francis Uzoho, Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Maduka Okoye are retained Rohr also have defenders Kenneth Omeruo, Abdullahi Shehu and Chidozie Awaziem back from injury, otherwise the squad is largely unchanged from the side that was forced

ABU Title: Okorodudu Throws His Weight behind Oladosu to Beat Joe Boy Former national boxing coach, Jerry Okorodudu, has tipped Rilwan “Real One” Oladosu to dethrone Oto “Joe Boy” Joseph as the African Boxing Union lightweight champion.

Real One, who is the West African Boxing Union (WABU) champion, is due to fight Joe Boy for the ABU title at GOtv Boxing Night 20 on 12 October at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos.

Speaking in Lagos yesterday, Okorodudu,

striker, who incidentally also plays for Chelsea was faced with the dilemma of choosing between England and Nigeria.

Abraham eventually opted for England even though the Nigerian federation wooed the player, in addition to holding talks with his father

on his punching power to overwhelm opponents.

“Joseph is a hard puncher.

That is his main weapon.

If allowed, he can easily win by a knockout. But if the fight lasts the distance, Oladosu will win. He only needs to avoid being knocked out,” explained the former Olympian.

Despite tipping the WABU champion, said he expects the encounter to be close run because both boxers are familiar with each other.

GOtv Boxing Night 20

will feature eight fights with some of the biggest names on the domestic scene set to be in action.

Among these are Ridwan “Scorpion” Oyekola, national super featherweight champion; Rilwan “Baby Face” Babatunde, WABU welterweight champion; Tope “TP Rock” Musa and Adewale “Masevex” Masebinu, national light heavyweight champion.

Others are Kabiru “KB Godson” Towolawi, Opeyemi “Sense” Adeyemi and Sadiq Adeleke.

to a 2-2 draw by Ukraine in Dnipro on 10th September.

All invited players are expected to arrive in Singapore on Wednesday, 9th October.

Nigeria and Brazil will tango in a much-anticipated encounter at the Singapore National Stadium, Kallang, Singapore on Sunday, 13th October, 23 years after Nigeria, on their way to winning Africa’s first Olympic football gold, spanked the Selecao in the semi finals at the Athens Stadium in the State of Georgia, USA. 23 EAGLES TO BATTLE BRAZIL Goalkeepers: Francis Uzoho (Omonia FC, Cyprus); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Heartland FC); Emil Maduka Okoye (Fortuna Dusseldorf, Germany) Defenders: Olaoluwa Aina (Torino FC, Italy); Abdullahi Shehu (Bursaspor FC, Turkey); Chidozie Awaziem (CD

Leganes, Spain); William Ekong (Udinese FC, Italy); Kenneth Omeruo (CD Leganes, Spain); Jamilu Collins (SC Padeborn 07, Germany); Semi Ajayi (West Brom, England) Midfielders: Alexander Iwobi (Everton FC, England); Anderson Esiti (PAOK Salonica, Greece); Oghenekaro Etebo (Stoke City FC, England); Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Joseph Ayodele-Aribo (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland); Ramon Azeez (Granada FC, Spain) Forwards: Victor Osimhen (Lille OSC, France); Moses Simon (FC Nantes, France); Samuel Chukwueze (Villarreal FC, Spain); Samuel Kalu (Girondins Bordeaux, France); Paul Onuachu (KRC Genk, Belgium); Emmanuel Dennis (Club Brugge, Belgium); P e t e r O l ay i nk a ( SK Sl av i a P rag ue , C ze c h R e p ub l i c )

Joe Aribo May Miss Brazil Clash Due to Head Injury Rangers midfielder Joe Aribo could miss the club’s next “few games” after suffering a head injury in Wednesday’s League Cup win over Livingston.

The Nigeria international required 20 stitches after a challenge by Livingston’s Rickie Lamie.

Steven Gerrard confirmed Aribo will miss Saturday’s visit of Aberdeen after being “cut all the way to the bone”.

“I will be very surprised if we see Aribo play before the international break,” the

Rangers boss said.

“It is his first time out of London and he has settled very well. This will be a setback but knowing him he will bounce back, he didn’t even want to come off yesterday which shows his mentality.” As well as Aberdeen, Rangers face Young Boys away in the Europa League on Thursday and then Hamilton at Ibrox before the next international break. Aribo was substituted before the break in the 1-0 win at Livingstone.

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FRIDAYSPORTS IAAF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Oduduru, Ekevwo Line up Amongst Sprint Big Boys as Doha 2019 Begins Duro Ikhazuagbe Track & field numero uno competition, the IAAF World Athletic Championships is scheduled to begin this morning at the iconic Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, Qatar with the men’s 100m the focal point of the opening day.

Nigeria’s Divine Oduduru is the country’s best prospect for podium placement. Despite the fact that Oduduru was beaten to the gold medal of the last African Games by compatriot Raymond Ekevwo in Rabat, Morocco last month, the American NCAA sprint double champion is the second fastest man in the field in Doha.

The 22-year-old Nigerian who has produced a season very similar to Christian Coleman’s 2017 campaign, have some mouth-watering pair of sub-10 performances early on in the year.

Oduduru won the NCAA 100m title in 9.86 and doubled back to take the 200m crown in a blazing 19.73.

However, his follow up performances since taking to the pro circuit have provided mixed results.

Oduduru’s 10.26 run in Paris in his pro debut and the more recent 20.54 to take the 200m event at the African Games have created some kind of mixed feelings in the minds of Nigerians and other track aficionados dreaming of seeing the Delta-born sprinter ascend the podium to signify Nigeria’s return to the top again in the men’s sprint culture.

Did Oduduru peaked too early in the season in the NCAA? Is he capable of shaking off the post NCAA blues to stake for

the podium in the blistering weather in Doha? All these questions and others will be known by the time the final of the 100m event of the Doha 2019 is decided tomorrow night inside the Khalifa Stadium.

As for the other two Nigerians like Raymond Ekevwo and Itsekiri Usheoritse listed for the 100m event, reaching the semis should be enough consolation for them. But nobody should completely rule out 20 year-old Ekevwo from any surprise like he did in Morocco blasting to a 9.96 personal best to take the African Games title.

The gold is open for the likes of Yohan Blake, Christian Coleman, Akani Simbine, Zharnel Hughes, Canada’s Aaron Brown and Rio triple medallist Andre de Grasse and the most experienced sprinter in the field who is defending champion, Justin Gatlin.

Gatlin, whose victory in London came 12 years after his first. He’s gone under 10 seconds four times this season, capped by a 9.87 performance in Stanford in late June, but clocked just 10.29 in his most recent race in Zagreb three weeks ago where he was hit my a minor hamstring injury.

Another former champion in the field is Blake, the 2011 winner in Daegu, South Korea, whose 9.96 in Lausanne is the fastest by a Jamaican this year.

Others hoping to impress are Japan’s Abdul Hakim Sani Brown, the double dash winner at the 2015 World U18 Championships who joined the sub-10 ranks with 9.97, Arthur Cisse, who lowered Ivory Coast’s national record to 9.93.

Other Nigerians listed to compete for glory at Doha 2019 include Emmanuel Arowolo as

NGO to Build Multi-sport Stadium for Special Need Children in Abuja Olawale Ajimotokan and Udora Orizu in Abuja A non-governmental organization (NGO), King of the World Foundation, Chabad Aid Humanitarian Projects for Nigeria has commenced the building of a multi-sport stadium for children with special needs at the Daughters of Charity Hope Centre, Kubwa Abuja.

At the ground breaking ceremony of the stadium, the Chief Rabbi of Lagos, Mendi Sternbach, said the organisation which seeks to bring help particularly to the needy, aims to go beyond just providing food for them but making provisions for those things which people tend to undermine.

The Rabbi noted that the reason they chose Daughters of Charity Orphanage is because of its uniqueness and willingness to become better. “We have seen this

place with a strong desire to improve the quality and service given to this children, once we heard about this place we knew we must do something to make a better change and we will like to copy this model in many other states across Nigeria. We are guided by the principle of education whether it is the ordinary children or special needs children. The intention is to bring the children that will benefit from the hope centre, we want this to be our pilot program to see how we do this and learn how to do it on a better level and this is definitely not a one off project.�

The team leader of the orphanage, Rev Sr Victoria Nwosu while commending the Schabad aid for their support urged the government to borrow a leaf and p r o v i d e funds for special need children.

well as Oduduru who will represent the country in the Men’s 200m event.

Blessing Okagbare is the country’s sole representative in the Women’s 100 starting tomorrow and also in the 200 metre events.

National champion, Patience Okon and African

Oduduru

Games Silver Medallist, Favour Ofili, will represent the country in the Women’s 400m event.

African Games and Commonwealth Gold Medallist Tobiloba Amusan will feature in the women’s 100mH while Rilwan Alowonle and Edose Ibadin

Okagbare

will feature in the Men’s 400mH and 800m events respectively.

For Field events, African Games gold medallists, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi and Oyesade Olatoye, will feature in the Men and Women’s Short-Put events respectively while

African Games Discus throw champion Chioma Onyekwere will feature in the Women’s Discus throw event.

Nigeria’s outstanding Long Jumper and All African Games Gold Medallist Ese Brume will feature in the Women’s long jump event.

Ekevwo

Barcelona Fined over Griezmann Transfer Barcelona have been fined only 300 euros (ÂŁ265) by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) for their approach to Antoine Griezmann while he was at La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid.

Spanish champions Barcelona signed Griezmann after paying his 120m-euro (ÂŁ107m) buyout clause on 1 July.

But the federation said Barca broke its rules by negotiating with Griezmann without Atletico’s permission.

Atletico believed his buyout clause should have been 200m euros (ÂŁ179m).

They claimed that Barca began talking to the player in March, when that was the size of his buyout clause.

His cost then dropped to 120m euros at the start of July, which was when he signed for Barca, but Atletico claimed the “commitment of the player and Barcelona was closed� prior to the clause reducing.

The player was absolved of any responsibility by the federation.

The RFEF’s statement read: “Taking into account the economic capacity of the club and the amount

of the fine, this committee is aware that the payment of 300 euros, beyond its merely symbolic character, will not damage the sanctioned club and, probably, will not persuade other clubs in the same situation in the future to adjust their conduct to the regulations.�

However, the RFEF determined that was “not a sufficient reason� to impose a one-match closure of the Nou Camp - its only other possible sanction - which it says is reserved for “infractions of a different nature�.

Griezmann - who had announced in May he would leave the Madrid side - signed a five-year deal with Barca, which includes an 800m euro (£717m) release clause, to become the world’s sixth most expensive signing.

Following the move, Atletico released a statement in which they expressed their “strongest repulsion for the behaviour of both, especially Barcelona�.

The Madrid club previously reported Barcelona to Fifa over an alleged illegal approach for Griezmann in December 2017.

Elijah Returns as Technical Adviser to ABS FC Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) FC of Ilorin has unveiled 47-year-old Yomi Elijah as its Technical Adviser.

Speaking at the ceremony, the club’s Director of Football, Alloy Chukwuemeka, said he is delighted to have Elijah rejoining the Ilorin based team.

Chukwuemeka said the club will build on a solid foundation that would keep the club going and also create an avenue for young talented footballers at the grassroots level to become superstar.

According to the management of the club, the coach will be handed two

bedroom flat apartments and also an official car to ease his job. “At ABS we work day and night to discover talents with dedicated staff. “Presently, we have two of our players at the U-17 level as we speak and we will have more this season by God’s grace� Chukwuemeka said.

The Nigeria Premier League Club Owners Scribe, also announced that a grassroots Coach, Shuiab Abdulkadir will assist Elijah on the job.

He said the club picked Abdulkadir because of

his meritorious service to grassroots football development.

Chukwuemeka disclosed that the team will train Abdulkadir just as it has done to those who had passed through the club like him.

Reacting after his unveiling, Elijah promised to bring programme that will encourage and develop Youth football, insisting that he came to ABS Ilorin FC to make a positive impact.

He said ABS has always been close to his heart and he is delighted to return to the club that gave him his

first opportunity to lead a team. “I am here to make a difference, this is one of the best club in Nigeria with a modern day structure in football. “My passion is to bring out the best in players and we will do this with some of the young lads here at ABS. “My return to ABS will produce more players that will represent the country now and in the future� Elijah said.

Meanwhile, the club has announced that it will resume on Monday, Sept. 30.

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Friday September 27, 2019

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Price: N250

MISSILE

Timi Frank to Osinbajo

“The VP is trying to intimidate everyone, including the media, but he has forgotten how he accused others like former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Senate President Bukola Saraki without any evidence” – Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of APC, Timi Frank, dismissing Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo’s decision to waive aside the constitutional immunity to clear any case of alleged corruption levelled against him.

AKINOSUNTOKUN DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA

akin.osuntokun@thisdaylive.com

Time to Revisit Afonja O

ne of the significant (defining) attributes of the 19th century history of the Yoruba was the Afonja (the 6th Aare Ona Kakanfo of the Oyo Empire) rebellion. The historical epoch encompasses a century long internecine wars and disintegrative sociopolitical implosion-culminating in the collapse of the empire. The era was uniquely marked by a striking contradictory pair of good fortune and misfortune for the Yoruba-as represented in the loss of Ilorin to the jihadist imperialism of the Sokoto caliphate on one hand and the defeat of the caliphate army at Osogbo in 1840 on another. Were there to be a contrary outcome of the latter encounter, it would have resulted in the probability of a blanket spread of the Ilorin type vassalage over Yoruba land. In such eventuality, the Yoruba traditional monarchical culture would have given way to the supplantation of the pseudo Islamic theocracy of the Sokoto caliphate. This was the ultimate objective embedded in the often iterated vision of dipping the Koran in the sea (the Lagos Atlantic seaboard).

The received wisdom on the Afonja rebellion was its negative utility as a cautionary tale on the Yoruba propensity for self-destructive intra mural supremacist struggles. It was a complex and complicated power play that transcends the simplistic reduction into the Judas Iscariot archetype portrayal of Afonja.

For the two protagonists (Alaafin Aole and Afonja), it was as an engagement of mutually assured destruction. If we want to personalize the collapse of the Oyo Empire (to which the loss of Ilorin was integral) and shop for whom to blame, we can certainly do a lot better than Afonja. Of greater consequence was the Alaafin Aole, who, in the final analysis, was (like Afonja) little more than the handmaiden of a history that overwhelmed the duo. For all his notoriety, Afonja was equally no more than a scapegoat for the imminent tragic fate of Ilorin.

In the circumstances of the pervasive and boundless anarchy let loose on the realm it is no exculpation to wonder whether an otherwise dutiful and patriotically disposed Afonja could have averted the imperialist incursion of the conquering caliphate army. Afonja was a catalyst not the precursor of the tragic fate that befell Ilorin and the Oyo Empire. Nonetheless, as Kakanfo, in whose custody the safety and security of the realm was entrusted, Afonja cuts the ironic figure of being a facilitator of the breakdown of law and order. But (understood as deliberate connivance with the external enemy to subvert his homeland), Afonja was not a sellout. He was just too absorbed in licentious warlordism to care or recognise the potential prohibitive cost of his folly.

His criminal proclivities approximate the classification of amorality rather than immorality.

Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi

In the fullness of the historical tragedy, the greater culprit whose villainy and venality tended to get obscured and diffused by the exaggeration of the culpability of Afonja, was Alaafin Aole.

As Prince and King, they don’t come more perverse and depraved than Aole but he was a symptom not the cause of the cancer that had already eaten deep into the body politic of the empire. In the predisposition towards wanton villainy and consequential degradation of their homestead, there is little to choose between Alaafin Aole and Afonja. Overtime, the duel (between the two) has been pressed to serve the cause of a one size fits all explanation and interpretation of all appearances of Yoruba made political rebellion.

Factually, Afonja was the rebellious Are Ona kakanfo whose revolt against Alaafin Aole (of the Oyo Empire) played into the chaotic implosion of the Oyo Empire and rendered it vulnerable to external aggression. Afonja then became a victim of the vulnerability he helped fomented when his Fulani allies turned on him.

He was vanquished, had his suzerainty over Ilorin expropriated and incorporated into the Sokoto caliphate. Regardless of the significance or insignificance of his accessory, the loss of Ilorin remains an exorbitant price to pay for the indiscretion of a rogue Field Marshall but the Afonja betrayal metaphor is in large part a misrepresentation of history. The original sinner was Alaafin Aole himself who should be deemed the worst adversary of the Yoruba-on account of his dying wish for their eternal damnation as captured in the following pronouncement; “My curse be upon you for your disloyalty and disobedience. So let your children disobey you. If you send them on errand, let them never return to bring you word again. To all the points I shot my arrows will ye be carried as slaves.

A broken calabash can be mended but

not a broken dish; so let my words be irrevocable” It was Aole himself who set in motion the chain of events that consumed both of them. He lived in dread of the larger than life profile of Afonja and sought to get rid of him through subterfuge.

Whenever the king directs the kakanfo to go to war, the latter has no option than victory-as the penalty for failure is death. At the institution of the Aare Ona kakanfo title by Alaafin Ajagbo in 15th century, he named two cities as forbidden territory to the kakanfo, Ile Ife and Iwere Ile-the birthplace of the his mother. Not only was Iwere Ile consecrated as forbidden, the city itself was a natural fort rendered near impregnable against external assault. Of all possible targets, this was the impossible choice Aole made for his Kakanfo. It was as clear as daylight that this was intended as a suicide errand. Not surprisingly, Afonja refused the errand and took the battle back to the Alaafin. In conspiracy with the principal Oyomesi title holders (whose collaboration effectively sealed the fate of Aole), Afonja invited Aole to regicide. Thus fatally isolated, the ill-fated Alaafin proceeded on his final suicide rites but not before pronouncing his infernal satanic curse on the Yoruba heritage.

History, remarked the muse, repeats itself first as tragedy and subsequently as farce. And so has it become with the recurrent historical recall of Afonja of Ilorin. The name has evolved to become a corporate identity for betrayal and disloyalty within the context of Yoruba leadership disputation. Contemporaneously, It resonated loudly in the Action Group (AG) factional crisis that ensued in 1962 which subsequently played out as a fight to the finish between Chief Obafemi Awolowo and his deputy Chief Ladoke Akintola.

Unlike Akintola, Afonja did not seek external collaboration to wage war against the Alaafin and supplant his leadership.

The collaboration he sought was aimed at mercenary expedition and plunder. The analogy is further contradicted by the fact that in perception and substance, Awolowo did not correspond to Aole. One was deemed a martyr and the other a villain.

The Afonja metaphor had endured a long list of perfunctory misapplications-as was the case with Bola Ige, Bola Tinubu and lately Professor Banji Akintoye-the most farcical of all. It was a comedy of errors.

The penultimate instance of the distinguished Professor is too banal and brazen to warrant the Afonja analogy. It was uniquely superfluous and disappointing. Here was a Regent Royale within the firmament of Afenifere/Yoruba leadership authenticity renouncing such honorable heritage for a 419 crown. As the Yoruba would say, won fi e joba, o tun wa Oogun awure (you are conferred with the honor befitting a king and you are still looking for good luck charm).

How do you even fancy yourself as Yoruba leader where your electoral college consists of “the Baale of Ekotedo, Chief Taye Ayorinde; Chief Deji Osibogun; members of the Oodua Peoples Congress (New Era); Oodua Redemption Alliance; Majiyagbe Oodua Vanguard, and Awari Omo Oduduwa”.

I now leave you to make sense (if you can) of the rationale and wherewithal of the ‘election’ of Akintoye as Yoruba leader by the main promoter and proponent of the project, Akogun Tola Adeniyi. All I will urge you, especially, our dear Professor Akintoye is to beware of individuals acting more catholic than the Pope and Greeks bearing gifts.

“I take exception to some people querying the calibre of people that nominated Akintoye? The man behind the gathering is about 61 years old. Victor Taiwo is not a small boy; he is over 69.

Osibogun is 65. George Adesokan is 62 or 63. So, what are you talking about youth? These are elders of Yoruba land in their own right.

“Fasoranti is the leader of Afenifere, which is one of the several socio-cultural organisations in Yoruba land. Though, it is the foremost organisation that has represented the Yoruba at several fora does not mean Fasoranti is the leader of those who do not belong to Afenifere.

We should make that distinction. To buttress my argument, Akintoye was in Pa Fasoranti’s house over the weekend last week in Akure and he went in the same flight with Adebanjo. This was after his (Akintoye’s) election. There is no division at all; they were altogether in Akure.

So, we still believe that Fasoranti is the father, to a large extent, of the Yoruba leadership. There is no way Akintoye will be leader of Yoruba nation without deferring to Pa Adebanjo or Fasoranti”.

“There should be a meeting of all the 318 socio-cultural groups in Yoruba land, without leaving out the young ones. The future of Yoruba lies with the youth. He should reach out to the leaders in political parties, commerce, finance and banking, medical sector and others. We expect him to reach out to all leaders. He should have a council of elders and leaders of thoughts. But more than any other thing, he should chart a way forward for the Yoruba. Are they going to go out of Nigeria or defend themselves, because they are being attacked everyday?

Are they just going to fold their arms and allow themselves to be overrun or are they to cry out to the international community and tell the world that the Fulani have descended on Nigeria to take our patrimony and send us all to the sea, and create a refugee crisis that will be the greatest in history?”

STOP PRESS-By the way if you are looking for a character witness on Uncle Tola Adeniyi, I refer you to Pages 103105 of the Memoirs of Chief Cornelius Adebayo

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