MONDAY 16TH DECEMBER 2019

INEC: APC Can’t Replace Akpabio for Akwa Ibom Rerun Says time for substitution over Chuks Okocha in Abuja The All Progressives Congress (APC) may not field a candidate for the January 25, 2020 senatorial rerun in Akwa

Ibom State, ordered by the Court of Appeal, THISDAY learnt at the weekend. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said it would not

allow the party to replace its candidate for the rerun, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who last week withdrew from the rerun in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa

Ibom North-west senatorial district. The Court of Appeal, while giving judgment in a petition by Akpabio challenging the declaration of Senator Chris

Ekpenyong of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as winner of the election in the senatorial district, had voided the PDP candidate’s election and ordered a rerun in the

local government. But Akpabio, in a letter last week to APC National Chairman, Mr. Adams Continued on page 9

Workers’ Strike Cuts Power Supply to 2,828MW... Page 8 Monday 16 December, 2019 Vol 24. No 9016. Price: N250

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Presidency Reviews Approved 2020 Budget Deji Elumoye in Abuja

THE GAME CHANGER... L-R: Special Adviser (Fiscal Policy) to Minister of Finance, Dr. Bode Oyetunde; the minister, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed; President, Dangote Industries Limited, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Special Adviser on Energy, Power, Oil & Gas, to the minister, Mr. Dahiru Moyi, Group Executive Director, Strategy, Capital Projects & Portfolio Development of the company, Mr. Devakumar Edwin, during the minister’s tour of upcoming Dangote Oil Refinery and Fertilizer Project, Lekki, Lagos…yesterday

The presidency has set up a committee to scrutinise the 2020 Appropriation Bill passed by the National Assembly, charging it to look critically into the differentials between the figure submitted by President Muhammadu Buhari and the one approved by the legislature, and advise the president on assent, THISDAY Continued on page 9

Lending, Deposit Rates Crashing on the Back of CBN’s OMO Policy Obinna Chima

The decision by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, to completely prohibit individuals and local firms from investing in both its primary and secondary Open Market Operations (OMO) auctions about two months ago is having a positive impact on deposit and lending rates, THISDAY findings have shown. THISDAY learnt that following the CBN circular that was announced in October, there has been noticeable decline in lending rates of commercial banks by at about

six per cent. Similarly, deposit rates paid by banks to customers have also dropped drastically to between two to three per cent, while interest rate has nosedived from as high as 18% to around 11%. In fact, THISDAY learnt that awash with liquidity as a result of the CBN’s OMO exclusion policy, banks became afraid that accepting priced deposits would result in the decline of their loan-to-deposit ratio and subsequently resorted to refusing large fixed deposits from their customers. The banks are jostling to meet with the 65 per cent minimum loan-deposit-lending

ratio that they were directed to comply with by the end of this month. It was gathered that the exclusion of the pension fund administrators from OMO and the CBN LDR policies have created intense competition by banks for loans, which has resulted in the observed drop in lending and deposit rates. Additionally, recent surveys conducted showed that banks are offering as low as two per cent to customers on fixed/ term deposit. This refusal has also helped in stimulating activities in the equities recently. Continued on page 9

GLOBAL LEADER... Deputy Secretary-General, United Nations, Ms. Amina Mohammed, during the presentation of World Leader Prize to her by the Global Citizen in London…weekend

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NEWS Peace Not in Sight in Edo as Obaseki, Oshiomhole Deepen Hostilities

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike

Email Ejiofor.Alike@thisdaylive.com, 08066066268

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The crisis of confidence in the Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that has pitted the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, against the National Chairman, Mr. Adams Oshiomhole, worsened yesterday as the duo launched fresh tirades against each other. Oshiomhole fired the first salvo, saying Obaseki lost his ward, local government and senatorial district in the last general election. But the governor, through his Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, urged Oshiomhole to concentrate on winning elections by the performance of the party and not relying on thugs and violence for electoral victory. He accused the party chairman

of trying hard to cover up his inordinate ambition to be the ultimate godfather in the state and usurp the will of the majority of the people. Oshiomhole launched the attack on the governor while featuring on a television programme at the weekend as he reacted to comments by Obaseki and his deputy, Hon. Philip Shaibu, that he (Oshiomhole) taught them all they are executing in the state, including the fight against godfathers. In a statement yesterday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Simon Ebegbulem, Oshiomhole said he never taught them how to unleash violence and lose elections. He said: “I have read them on several occasions saying that I taught them all they are doing today. This is laughable because I never thought them

how to lose elections. As we speak today, the governor (Obaseki) lost his ward, local government and senatorial district in the last presidential election. As we speak, the governor is being represented by the PDP in his federal constituency and senatorial district. These in my view were early morning signals about need to change tactics, stop threatening people, saying you will crush, who are you crushing? “But I won my entire senatorial district for Mr. President and I am being represented by an APC senator and House of Representatives member. Then

his deputy, Philip, in Jattu where he comes from, in his polling booth where he and his family voted, Philip Shaibu lost. He lost his booth during his own governorship election in which he was standing as deputy governorship candidate. So if he learnt from me, he should have learnt well because I never lost election in my village. “There is no body in my village who can work against me because when I go home I relate with them, I am an ordinary man. You see when you have power and you don’t use it, you are even more powerful. And

you must know when to talk tough and when to talk soft." But the governor countered Oshiomhole, urging him to concentrate on winning elections by the performance of the party and not relying on thugs and violence for electoral victory. He said: "Even his (Oshiomhole’s) allegory of politics being like a forest with dangerous animals is a poor excuse to continue to perpetrate thuggery and keeping the collective patrimony under the control of a few greedy and violent people in the name of winning units and ward

elections. "Good governance remains the surest path towards winning elections, especially when you are committed to free, fair and credible elections devoid of the kind of violence witnessed in recent elections in the country. "So, instead of trying to pacify the violent and the lawless just because you want to win elections, Oshiomhole should support the stellar performance being displayed by Governor Godwin Obaseki in Edo State, that way, he will not need the services of his thugs to win the next election."

Turkish Airlines Fixes Tomorrow as Deadline to Return Passengers’ Baggages Chinedu Eze in Lagos and James Emejo in Abuja Following the threat to suspend its operations to Nigeria by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Turkish Airlines has agreed to return all leftover passengers’ baggages from December 13 to17. The airline has also kept to the directive of NCAA to deploy bigger aircraft on its three Nigerian destinations to ensure that both passengers and their baggage are taken to their destinations at the same time. This was contained in a statement made available to THISDAY yesterday and signed by the spokesman of NCAA, Sam Adurogboye. According to the statement, “Consequent upon the suspension of Turkish Airlines operations into Nigeria, the acting Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Abdullahi Sidi, met with the management of Turkish Airlines at the NCAA Office in Abuja on Friday. “At the end of the meeting, the Airline’s executives pledged to commence immediately freight of all leftover passengers’ baggage in Turkey to Nigeria. “According to them, this will be achieved by instantly upgrading the Boeing 737-800 being used and found inadequate to a larger Airbus A 330 and Boeing 737-900. The programme of clearance will be carried out from 13th to 17th December, 2019.� NCAA, in a letter dated December 11, 2019, with reference no. NCAA/DG/12/16/60 suspended Turkish Airlines operations into Nigeria with effect from the December 16, 2019, if the right size of aircraft is not deployed to the service of Nigerians at all airports in the country. The regulatory authority said it expected strict compliance with this remedial programme and warned all operators to ensure Nigerians were not taken for granted by providing safe, secure and efficient service at

all times. It was learnt that Turkish Airlines has become notorious for delaying passengers checkedin bags on the Nigerian routes, which led to safety and security breach in early 2018 when passengers who were distraught when they did not get their bags on arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, attempted to stop the takeoff of Turkish Airlines flight. This year, the delay started in October but reached a climax early December, prompting NCAA to step in immediately. Meanwhile, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has applauded the strong and decisive action taken by the NCAA by suspending the operations of Turkish Airlines because of poor treatment of passengers and inefficient approach to timely delivery of baggage to travellers. In a statement yesterday, Chief Executive, FCCPC, Mr. Babatunde Irukera, said there had been incessant and unabating complaints about the airline’s treatment of passengers and a regrettable lack of sufficient attention by the airline to mitigate these mistreatments and reverse the trend. He noted that a fundamental plank and mutual commitment under the Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASA) is respect for local laws and maintaining appropriate standards, not just as a matter of aircraft airworthiness and safe operations, but also how passengers are treated. Irukera said: "Sadly, Turkish Airlines has remained insensitive and unyielding to repeated regulatory interventions and oversight to modify its behaviour." According to him, the vexatious multiple issues of delays, cancellations and baggage handling continues to be the highlights of passenger complaints, whether international or domestic travel, adding that these undermine confidence and the full potential of the aviation sector.

ANOTHER FEATHER TO THE CAP... L-R: Vice Chancellor, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Niger State, Prof. Muhammad Maiturare; All Progressives Congress National Leader, Senator Bola Tinubu; Pro Chancellor, Dr. Mohammed Santuraki; and Niger State Governor, Dr. Abubakar Bello, during the convocation ceremony and conferment of honorary doctorate degree on Tinubu, in Lapai, Niger State...weekend

Opposition to Senate’s Constituency Projects Bill Mounts ACF, Afenifere, IYC want legislators to drop 20% of federal budget allotment proposal Deji Elumoye in Abuja, Segun James in Lagos and John Shiklam in Kaduna The Senate has come under fire over its consideration of a bill to reserve 20 per cent of the federal government’s budget to fund constituency projects. The bill, being sponsored by Senator Stella Oduah, from Anambra State, at the weekend drew flaks from notable sociocultural groups such as Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Afenifere and Ijaw Youth Congress (IYC). The groups, in separate interviews with THISDAY, condemned the efforts and urged the senators to hands off the scheme, which President Muhammadu Buhari recently said the nation wasted about N1 trillion on without getting any commensurate benefits. The Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, described the constituency projects being executed by federal government on behalf of National Assembly members as a drain on the nation's economy. Reacting to the proposal to allocate 20 per cent of annual budget for constituency projects, Afenifere’s spokesman, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, kicked against the plan, saying, "the so-called constituency projects have been drain pipes in service of our prebendal politics". According to him, "To now allocate 20 per cent of our budget

to such squandering is total liquidation of the country as it seems everybody is grabbing what is ‘grabable’ in the last days of Nigeria as it is. "There have been no real values for such projects as they are mostly self-serving projects. Some senators will collect billions of naira to 'train fishermen" for instance. How do you audit those who were trained? "Even those who engage in tangible projects do boreholes year-in and year-out, shanty schools and never-equipped hospitals." On its part, ACF said Nigerians did not feel the impact of the N1trillion budgeted for constituency projects in the last 10 years, and urged the legislators to limit themselves to their assigned roles of legislation and oversight functions instead of delving into executive functions of executing constituency projects. Secretary General of the ACF, Mr. Anthony Sani, told THISDAY at the weekend that even Buhari recently said there was little to show from the N1 trillion spent in 10 years. He said the reports of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on constituency projects in some geopolitical zones had shown that despite the funds allocated to constituency projects, many of them were abandoned. Sani added that to avoid past mistakes and make

constituency projects relevant to the people, any amount allocated for constituency projects should be managed by the appropriated agencies instead of by the individual legislators representing the constituencies. He said: “I believe the idea of constituency projects is informed by scarcity of resources at the disposal of the federal government. As a result, the constituency projects are aimed at ensuring equitable distribution of national resources among the constituent parts of the country. “Therefore, there can be no cavil with the significance of the constituency projects, especially if they are well executed for the good of the public. “And so in order to avoid past mistakes and make constituency projects relevant to the people, any amount allocated for constituency projects should be managed by the appropriated agencies instead of by the individual legislators representing the said constituencies.� According to him, the legislators should limit themselves to their assigned roles of legislation and oversight functions instead of delving into executive functions of executing constituency projects. Also speaking on the issue, the President of Ijaw Youth Congress (IYC), Mr. Eric Omare, accused the lawmakers of abusing the implementation

of constituency projects. “We have had situations where some legislators have converted constituency projects to their personal use and in some cases, some do not execute the projects at all,� he said, adding: “In my view, moving forward, mechanisms for implementation of constituency projects should be strengthened by the government at all levels to ensure implementation of constituency projects.� A former Personal Assistant to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and governorship aspirant in Adamawa State, Dr. Umar Ardo, said constitutional projects were unconstitutional, adding that the legislature should focus on law making. He said: “The constitution of Nigeria created the legislature and vested upon it two major functions only - to make laws and perform oversights on the executive branch. None of these two functions involved constituency projects! Performance of projects is 100 per cent the function of the executive. It is therefore a legislative fraud. “I think someone needs to go to court and challenge this misnomer. As it is now eating deep into the national purse without commensurate impact, and being a milking cow for legislators at the expense of the country, its legality needs to be established."

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Workers’ Strike Cuts Power Supply to 2,828MW Sector records N595bn loss in 2019 due to constraints Chineme Okafor in Abuja As businesses and individuals count the cost of last week’s strike by electricity workers, records obtained yesterday from the office of the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo has shown that the daily electricity supply also dipped to an average of 2,828 megawatts (MW) following the short-lived strike by the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE). The records showed that on December 12, the union’s strike forced Nigeria to distribute a paltry 753MW among the 11 electricity distribution companies (Discos). The one-day strike, which took place on Wednesday, led to system collapse, which almost plunged the whole country into darkness after the workers of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), joined their colleagues in the distribution and generation companies. Though the issues were resolved at the early hours of Thursday, electricity supply remained epileptic throughout the weekend. For instance, as at 6.a.m on Thursday, peak generation was

4,214.6MW, but it later slumped to an all-time low of 12MW, resulting in system collapse. By 6.a.m on Friday, 3,858.1MW was sent to the national grid. Before the workers embarked on the strike on Wednesday, power supply as at 6a.m on Tuesday was 4,047megawatts. On Monday, peak generation was 4,292.7MW while the lowest generation was 3,507MW. However, despite the resumption of work by the workers, generation, supply has remained poor. Available records from the Office of the Vice President indicated that the country’s electricity sector has continued to perform poorly with average daily supply between January 1 and December 13, 2019 falling to 3,772MW as against 3,793MW recorded as daily average supply between January 1 and December 13, 2018. The electricity workers embarked on the strike to chiefly get the government to address alleged welfare complaints arising from the sale of power assets of defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) in a 2013

power sector privatisation programme. NUEE’s General Secretary, Mr. Joe Ajaero, told the media that the strike was occasioned by the non-payment of the entitlement of over 2,000 workers of the defunct PHCN who were laid off during the privatisation. Ajaero also said workers were short paid for over 16 months while the condition of service for those still within the power sector in the successor companies of PHCN was poor. He noted that these unresolved issues necessitated the strike because the union’s efforts to get the government to respond appropriately to them had not been fruitful. But analysing the impacts of the strike on power supply

within the period, data obtained by THISDAY from the Advisory Power Team in Osinbajo’s office showed that on the average, the constrained volume of electricity for the period – that is electricity that could not get to the national grid was 2,916MW and more than the average daily supply of 2,828MW. The data equally showed that within the week, the sector’s unearned revenue was put at N8.399 billion, indicating an average daily loss of N1.67 billion. According to Osinbajo’s office, on December 8, the sector opened the week with the supply of 3,849MW to the grid and constrained volume of 3,669MW; the next day – December 9, it raised the

supplied volume to 4,008MW and reduced constrained volume to 3,547MW. It sustained the upward supply on December 10 with 4140MW put on the grid and further reduced constrained volume to 3483MW; however, on December 11 when the unions started their strike, power supply dropped to 2,146MW while constrained volume rose to 3,547MW. The data further showed that by December 12, the impact of the strike on electricity supply was prominent as the country only had 753MW on the grid and 3,367MW unavailable. This however changed on December 13 when average supply rose to 3,092MW but with a higher constrained volume of 3556MW.

Additionally, records from Osinbajo’s office stated that so far in 2019, the power sector has failed to earn N595.8 billion due to constraints from insufficient gas supply, distribution infrastructure and transmission infrastructure. It explained that the unearned figure of N595.8 billion was from January 1 to December 13, 2019, and that it was more than what was lost in the same period in 2018 which was N507.046 billion. The data equally noted that in comparison, average power supply within the period in 2018 was 3,793MW with constrained power put at 3,044MW, as against 3,772MW average in 2019 and higher constrained volume of 3,587MW.

Pension Assets Rise by 2.4% to N9.8bn Obinna Chima The total stock of pension assets increased by N228 billion to N9.811 trillion as at October 31, 2019, up from the N9.583 trillion it was in September, data from National Pension Commission (PenCom) have shown. This showed that the pension fund assets increased by 2.4 per cent in the one month under review. PenCom, in its monthly report for October, attributed the accretion in pension funds within a month to the positive returns on the classes of investments the funds were invested in as well as an increase in enrolment into the contributory pension scheme. A breakdown of the figure showed that a significant chunk of the pension assets is invested in FGN Securities, with a total of N6.910 trillion (70.43 per cent). Of this amount, 47 per cent (N4.578 trillion) of the investment was placed on FGN Bonds. This was closely followed by treasury bills with 22 per cent (N2.23 trillion); investment in local money market securities, which was 11.73 per cent (N1.150 trillion) and total amount placed by the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) in banks stood at N1.053 trillion (11.73 per cent). Also, the report showed that Pension Fund Administrators allocated 4.85 per cent (N476 billion) of their investment to domestic ordinary shares; N66.985 billion (0.68 per cent) on foreign ordinary shares; agency bonds (NMRC and FMBN) got 0.06 per cent (N5.40 billion) and they staked 0.72 per cent (N71.131bn) on Sukuk Bond. The monthly summary of pension fund assets showed that in the period under review, the PFAs also invested 1.30 per cent (N127bn) of their funds in State Government Securities; N596 billion (6.08%) on Corporate Bonds; N97.859 billion (one per cent) on Commercial Papers; N11.874 billion (0.12 per cent) on

Real Estate Investment Trusts; and N244 billion (2.48 per cent) on real estate properties. In addition, the data revealed that the PFAs, in the period under review, also staked N32.568 billion (0.33 per cent) on private equity funds; N95 billion (0.97 per cent) on infrastructure funds. PenCom recently stated that it was striving to capture the remaining 90 million Nigeria's working population into the pension scheme. PenCom Acting Director General, Aisha Dahiru Umar, had said out of the 90 million people excluded from the scheme, her agency was planning to capture about 17 million that are self-employed and engaged in small businesses through the micro pension scheme. However, she had said about 70 per cent of the working population had no bank accounts, let alone pension scheme because of lack of means of identification and poor financial behaviours. She stated that the above growth justified the commission's emphasis on the safety of pension funds as the bedrock of sustaining the CPS and assured all stakeholders that the pension reform remains steadily on course. According to her, the modest milestones notwithstanding, the commission and pension operators are committed to actualising the growth potentials of the pension industry. She described the commission’s current strategic focus, which aims to expand access to pension via the CPS, as a veritable tool for economic development. "This aligns with the pension reform objective of old age poverty reduction and improvement in the welfare and general standard of living. The quest to expand coverage of pension is being pursued through some transformational initiatives, especially the Micro Pension Plan," she added.

THE CARNIVAL BEGINS... L-R: Speaker, Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Eteng Williams; Vice President of Liberia, Ms. Jewel Howard-Tylor; and Cross River State Governor, Senator Ben Ayade, during the Carnival Calabar in Calabar‌yesterday

Ahmed: Dangote Refinery will Strengthen Nigeria’s Macro-economic Environment Group targets $30bn annual revenue Peter Uzoho The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed, has stated that the 650, 000 per day Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Plant currently under construction at the Lekki Free Trade Zone, in Lagos State, will strengthen Nigeria's Macro-economic environment. This is coming as the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has disclosed that the group was working towards hitting $30 billion revenue base year-on-year when all its ongoing projects come on stream. The minister also said that the $12 billion project, which is already creating employment for many Nigerians, would enable the country earn or save foreign exchange to the tune of at least $10 billion when it begins operation. Ahmed said this yesterday during her inspection tour of the facility in company of her aides, adding that the refinery was the first of its kind. "When this is completed we will not be importing refined

petroleum products, we will just be buying from down town in Epe and Lekki, and then be looking at the logistics of how to distribute it across the country, hopefully, either by rail as well as by sea. "And for us in government, that is a savings of at least $10 billion that will be sitting in our reserves instead of flying out to pay for PMS; that will strengthen our macro-economic environment, which in turn will encourage more investors to come in and do investments like the one Alhaji is doing," she said. According to Ahmed, "This is a very important project. This is a project that is one of its kind; one of the largest refineries in the world today. It also co-located with petrochemical plant, fertiliser plant as well as a gas plant. Mr. President is very proud of this project and we also speak about it everywhere we go. We can see the number of jobs, which it is creating and also the good that it will be bringing to our economy.� The minister, however, urged Dangote group to do more in

the area of corporate social responsibilities so that members of the host communities will feel happy and join hands to secure the facility. According to her, “Your security men will not be enough; you need the people that are around you, that are secure in the sense that you have provided them with schools and hospitals, educating their children. That is unquantifiable; they will be the ones that will guard your installations even with their lives. Meanwhile, Dangote said the group's plan to ramp up its revenue base to $30 billion yearon-on-year, would be actualised when all the projects under construction begin operation by 2021. He said: "What we are doing is actually building the real capacity and also the foundation of the group from just $4 billion of revenue, now, by the time we finish in 2021, we will be having $30 billion of revenue. "You know, because we have the refinery coming on stream; we have the petrochemical coming on stream; we have the fertiliser, we have over a

million tonnes of rice, we have also about 600,000 tonnes of locally made sugar, and our cement, we are finishing by end of this year, beginning of January next year -eight million export facility of our cement to other African countries to generate foreign exchange. "So, what we are actually trying to do is to totally turn around the company. Now, rather than going to central bank to request for dollars, we want to be one of the major suppliers of foreign exchange in this domestic market." Dangote also stated that the group was addressing infrastructural challenges associated with such huge projects, especially power generation. He said: "I think, in terms of infrastructure, we already have our own infrastructure. As you can see, here, we have 555 megawatts of power. By the time we have finished group-wide, we are going to have almost 2,000 megawatts of power off and on. But I think power is not only government's responsibility.

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HONOURED FOR DILIGENCE... L-R: Vice-Chancellor, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile -Ife, Osun State, Prof. Eyitope Ogunbodede; Honourary Doctoral Degree Awardees, President, Export-Import Bank, Cairo, Egypt, Prof. Oramah; Chairman, First Bank of Nigeria Plc, Mrs. Ibukun Awosika; Chairman, Troyka Conglomerate, Mr. Abiodun Shobanjo; Chancellor, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar; and Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, during 44th Convocation Ceremony of the university in Ile-Ife...weekend akinyele abayomi

INEC: APC CAN’T REPLACE AKPABIO FOR AKWA IBOM RERUN Oshiomhole, had notified the party of his withdrawal from the rerun, due to his current ministerial duties, and urged the party to find a replacement and send the name to INEC for approval. However, INEC while responding to THISDAY’s inquiry at the weekend, said the ruling party would not be allowed to replace the minister as the deadline for substitution of a candidate for any election had lapsed. Also, Akpabio’s withdrawal drew jeers from the PDP, which attributed his retreat to fear of another defeat. According to INEC, all the parties and candidates that filed valid nominations and

contested the senatorial election during last general poll will be on the ballot for the rerun election in Essien Udim Local Government Area. The INEC National Commissioner in charge of Voter Education and Publicity, Mr. Festus Okoye, told THISDAY in an exclusive interview: "In the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2019 general election, the Independent National Electoral Commission fixed November 17, 2019 as the last day for substitution and/or withdrawal of candidates by political parties in accordance with Section 35 of the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended). "The date and period for the

nomination and substitution of candidates has elapsed and no political party can withdraw or substitute its candidate or nominate or introduce a new candidate in the re-run election. "In other words, a new candidate cannot inherit the votes warehoused from the validated votes in the other local governments and cannot participate in the re-run election in the Essien Udim Local Government Area. "The commission is not permitted to admit and will not allow or admit any other candidate other than the candidate that contested the election that was annulled by the court." The commission assured

the people of Akwa Ibom North-west Senatorial District that the rerun election will hold in Essien Udim Local Government as scheduled and the votes from the local government area will be added to the harvested and validated votes of the other local governments to determine the winner of the election. It advised all political parties and candidates to maintain the peace as the commission is determined to conduct a transparent, free and fair rerun election and conclude the electoral process in the senatorial district. Meanwhile, the PDP in the state

has mocked Akpabio, saying he withdrew from the rerun to avoid another defeat. The PDP described as a joke the former governor’s withdrawal from the rerun, saying that he and the APC must submit themselves for confirmatory defeat. A statement by the state Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Iniobong Ememobong, said it was inappropriate for Akpabio to seek to be replaced by another candidate. It said: “Senator Akpabio was a party before the court and the order of the court is that he should go back for a rerun in Essien Udim- that’s an order of the court and as a lawyer, he should obey that

Some senators across party lines, who spoke on condition of anonymity at the weekend stated that apart from the N100 billion voted for constituency projects for the National Assembly members, the leadership of the two chambers allegedly inserted some projects in the senatorial districts of some senators and constituencies of some House of Representatives members under various headings in some ministries and agencies. The aggrieved senators accused the leadership of the National Assembly of making their favourites beneficiaries while leaving out others. The sources identified ministries according to a copy of the budget breakdown seen by THISDAY where the projects are inserted for execution include Human Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development; Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs; Agriculture and Rural Development; Communications;

Defence and Open University. A breakdown of the four 'legislative' projects highlighted under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development showed that N700 million was earmarked for installation of all-in-one solar powered street lights across the eight local government areas of Delta Central Senatorial District which the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege represents; N500 million for grants to youth and women in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Borno Central Senatorial District of the immediate past Governor of Borno State and an ally of the Senate President, Senator Shettima Kashim; N400 million for training and support of civilian JTF in Jere/MMC/ Kaga Federal Constituencies of Borno State and N300 million for vocational training and provision of empowerment materials to youth and women

PDP Mocks Akpabio

order and submit himself for confirmatory defeat. “Some days ago, our party, like other members of the reading public, saw a letter infixed in the headed paper of Senator Godswill Akpabio attempting to convey the purported withdrawal of the senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress candidate in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District. “Due to the cunning and comical nature of the dramatis persona, we had to wait for a reasonable time to be sure that he will not make his habitual volte-face and claim that he didn’t write the letter or it was one of the skits in his newfound hobby of national comedy."

PRESIDENCY REVIEWS APPROVED 2020 BUDGET learnt last night. The National Assembly had on December 5, passed N10.59 trillion, N264 billion more than the N10.33 trillion estimates submitted for 2020 by the president in October. This differential, a reliable source told THISDAY, would be thoroughly scrutinised by the committee, before presidential assent. The budget was last Thursday transmitted to the president for assent. Although there is pressure on the president to give assent because of the administration’s desire to return to the Januaryto-December fiscal calendar, Buhari is said to be insistent on ensuring that his core financial objectives are not distorted by the fresh insertions, which are already causing disquiet in the Senate. “The president wants to ensure that the projects inserted conform to his overall fiscal objectives,� a source told THISDAY, saying the exercise

would not necessarily lead to the defeat of the desire to return to January-to-December budget cycle. It was gathered that the committee would soon look at the budget document and advise the president accordingly on the next line of action. THISDAY learnt that it was after the committee might have completed its work that the issue of whether Buhari would assent to the bill or not could be decided. "All I know is that with the presidency is now in possession of the approved Appropriation Bill, the onus is on the executive to speed up action on the issue of assenting to the bill and I know that should be before long because I know both the legislature and the executive are on the same page about returning the budget cycle to January-to-December effective 2020 fiscal year," one of the sources stated.

Senators Grumble

over Extra Constituency Projects for Principal OfďŹ cers Meanwhile, senators are warming up for a fight with the leadership of the Senate over the distribution of some capital projects in the 2020 Budget, passed penultimate Thursday by the National Assembly. Sources told THISDAY at the weekend that the projects were outside the N100 billion constituency projects for lawmakers in the two chambers of the National Assembly that the executive conceded to them. It was learnt that the cost of the inserted projects, which was not originally in the N10. 33 billion appropriation bill the president presented to the National Assembly on October 8, formed part of the reasons the National Assembly jacked up the budget size by N264 billion before passing it on December 5.

LENDING, DEPOSIT RATES CRASHING ON THE BACK OF CBN’S OMO POLICY A bank chief executive officer, who pleaded to remain anonymous, confirmed this in a chat with THISDAY last night. “The average interest rate on deposits is presently about four per cent. For lending, some of the large corporates today are borrowing at about 12 per cent, depending on the bank. “For medium term corporate borrowers, it is about 15 to 17 per cent. Indeed, last week, the Dangote Group did Commercial Paper where it raised N45 billion at seven per cent,� the bank CEO added. Some market analysts have hailed the CBN's unconventional monetary policy approach given that whereas the monetary policy rate (MPR) has remained unchanged at

13.5 per cent, the discovery by the CBN of certain structural inefficiencies in the interest rate structure where OMO, which is monetary policy tool meant for only the banks and the foreign portfolio investors, had been infiltrated by the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs). The co-founder of Cardinal Stone Partners Limited, Mr. Mohammed Garuba, had pointed out that until the CBN decided to restrict its OMO auctions, it was only in Nigeria that private sector and individuals were allowed to invest in the securities. He had explained that OMO auction was supposed to be strictly between the central bank and banks. “It is a liquidity management

tool. PFAs and the rest were never supposed to invest in OMO. For normal Nigerian Treasury Bills (NTBs), it is open to everybody, you fill your forms and go for auction. But OMO is 100 per cent at the central bank’s discretion. The central bank can decide to issue it anytime or any day they like. That is how it is everywhere in the world apart from Nigeria,� Garuba explained. The Nigerian stock market had rebounded in November, primarily as a result of the CBN policy that restricted individuals and local firms from investing in its OMO auctions. Contrary to a decline of 4.9 per cent suffered by the Nigerian Stock Exchange’s

(NSE) All-Share Index (ASI) in October, the market benchmark gauge had appreciated 2.4 per cent in November. Similarly, the market, which dipped by N642 billion in October, had gained a total of N204 billion in November. While the NSE ASI had appreciated from 26,355.35 to 27,002.15, market capitalisation had risen from N12.829 trillion to N13.033 trillion. In the same vein, A report by Cordros Securities Limited, at the weekend showed that overnight (OVN) rate undulated last week before settling lower by 0.28 percentage points at 2.8 per cent. The report showed that this week, treasury bills maturities worth a combined

N73.30 billion – OMO (N51.30 billion) and PMA maturities (N22.00 billion) and Federal Government Savings bonds coupons (N13.33 million) – from the 11.418% JUN-2021 and 12.418% JUN-2022 instruments – were expected during the week. In combination with the already substantial system liquidity level, we expect the rate to remain moderate during the coming week. “In our view, the restrictions on trading in OMO will continue to drive volumes in the treasury bills market. Consequently, we expect the average yield in the market to settle in the single-digit territory by 2019 ending,� the Lagos-based firm added.

in Lagos Central Senatorial District of Senator Oluremi Tinubu. The 'legislative' projects to be funded through National Lottery Trust Fund under the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs are N100 million for the empowerment of youth and women, purchase of motorcycles, sewing machines, refrigerators and grinding machines in Gombe North Senatorial District of Senator Alkali Saidu and construction of maternity clinic and hospital equipment at Jalingo Ashaka, Funakaye local government area of the same Gombe North senatorial district at a cost of N460m.

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MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

FG: Border Closure Not Breaching Free Trade Agreement The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Sabo Nanono, said federal government’s closure of the Nigerian border does not in any way breach the free trade agreement in the West African sub-region. The minister said yesterday in Abuja that the measure was meant to protect the country and its citizens from the nefarious activities which take place at the borders. “Free trade does not mean Nigeria has to be a dumping ground for everything imported by others. These products are not even from all these countries involved. So, why should they be feasting on us? “Nigeria controls 60 to 70 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the West African subregion. “So, Nigeria’s economy still remains a buffer zone for the West African sub-region. “Besides, most of the people that come into this country and melt into the population from the West African sub-region come in because this country is accommodating them. “This happens to the extent that some of these people, when they migrate into this country, you

do not even know that they are immigrants. “Take for example, people from Niger Republic when they come into Kano State, what will differentiate them from the people from Kano, or those from Benin Republic who come into Oyo State or Osun. They look like us. “This situation creates a problem, and the border closure is a measure that has gone a long way in solving the problem,’’ Nanono told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). The minister disclosed that the Federal Government was holding talks with the countries concerned to ensure that they kept to the terms of the free trade agreement. He said the border closure was not meant to hurt anybody. “It was a decision taken after careful deliberation and series of attempts by government to get the neighbouring countries to check the illegal activities at the borders.’’ Nanono pointed out that a lot of activities were going on at the borders which were not in the interest of Nigeria and Nigerians. “Nigeria became a dumping ground for all kinds of imports, especially rice, which used to come from these neighbouring

countries. “The unfortunate thing about it is that most of the rice being imported are not healthy and 100 per cent of these rice were not produced in these countries. They were produced elsewhere. “From what I gathered, some of the countries were even given some forms of assistance to curb these imports, but they refused to change. “They went ahead, with their countries becoming routes to import rice and other things into this country. “No country in the world can tolerate what we have tolerated over the years. “This (Nigeria) is a country

that can produce rice, not only to feed itself but also to export to other countries. “Even before the closure of border, when the government changed policy from continuous importation of rice to restriction, the Nigerian farmers have showed that they can produce rice to feed this nation,” he said. The minister said one of the major impacts of the closure of border was that Nigerians have began to consume local rice and other locally-produced commodities. “l am pleased to note that the consumption of local rice has now gone beyond our imagination. “In the Southern part of

this country, people do not eat foreign rice anymore. In Ebonyi and Bayelsa, you can hardly see somebody selling foreign rice. “They now eat Abakaliki rice and they are happy about it. It is fresh, nutritious and healthy. “In fact, you can perceive the local rice’s good aroma in the mill, as opposed to the one being imported into the country which does not even add value to our health and which is not even nutritious. So, why should we even bother ourselves about this? “We have reached a level where in the next two years we will start exporting rice, based on what I saw when I visited the cluster of rice millers at Kura in Kano State,

which is about a one-kilometre stretch,” he said. Nanono also said the federal government had started examining all issues surrounding all other commodities, apart from rice, being imported into the country. “Any commodity Nigeria has the potential of producing or we are currently producing will be banned from being imported. “This is to preserve the country’s foreign exchange and ensure national development.’’ He urged Nigerians to take advantage of the border closure to invest in any of the agricultural value chains, pointing out that opportunities for investment had been created.

NNPC Declares N5.2bn Trading Surplus for August Ejiofor Alike The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said it made N5.20 billion trading surplus for the month of August, reflecting an increase of 22 per cent, compared with the N4.26billion surplus posted in July. The corporation disclosed this in its Monthly Financial and Operations Report for the month of August released in Abuja yesterday. It attributed the appreciable increase of 22 per cent within the period under review to largely the improved surplus posted by the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company. It explained that the percentage increase in performance of the company evened out with the decline in the performance of Nigeria Gas Company (NGC), vis-à-vis July figures. It added that the increased surplus posted by Duke Oil and the reduced deficit by the Nigerian Pipelines and Storage Company also bolstered the figures for the month. A summary of NNPC’s Group Operating Revenue and Expenditure for the month under review indicated that it increased by 7.58 per cent at N540.6 billion, reflecting an increase of N38.10 billion compared with the previous month’s performance. It further added that the expenditure for the month followed a similar trend with increase of 7.46 per cent or N37.16billion, to reach N535.40billion during the month under review. It declared that the proportion of expenditure to revenue was almost at par for the current month as well as in July 2019. In the Downstream Sector of the corporation’s operations,

the report noted that N233.42 billion was made on the sale of white products by the Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC), the Downstream subsidiary of the NNPC in August compared to N214.70 billion sales in July. “Total revenues generated from the sales of white products for the period August 2018 to August 2019 stood at N2,687.29billion, with PMS contributing about 95.19 per cent of the total sales valued at N2,558.13billion. “Volume wise, 1.917billion litres of white products were sold and distributed by PPMC in the month under review, compared with 1.744billion litres in July 2019. “This comprised 1.92billion litres of PMS (petrol) and 0.00030 billion litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), otherwise called diesel. “Total sale of white products for the period: August 2018 to August 2019 stood at 21.49billion litres, with PMS accounting for 20.82billion litres or 96.9 per cent,” it said In the gas sector, it said that out of the 1,174.97million Standard Cubic Feet (mmscfd) of gas supplied to the domestic market in August, about 666.15mmscfd of gas representing 56.69 per cent was supplied to Gas-Fired power plants. According to the report, the balance of 508.82mmscfd or 43.31 per cent was supplied to other industries. “Similarly, for the period: August 2018 to August 2019, an average of 1,211.08mmscfd of gas was supplied to the domestic market, comprising an average of 723.77mmscfd or 59.76 per cent as gas supply to power and 482.32mmscfd or 40.24 per cent as gas supply to industries,” the report revealed.

HOMAGE TO MILITARY GODFATHER..

Former Senate President, David Mark (left), and former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), during Mark’s visit at his uphill residence in Minna…yesterday

Nigeria Has Only 42,000 Doctors, Says NMA President Martins Ifijeh President of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Francis Faduyile, has raised the alarm over shortage of healthcare practitioners in the country, saying only 42,000 doctors are available for Nigeria’s population of over 200 million people. He said high rate of insecurity, poor job satisfaction, low remuneration, unemployment, bad roads, and poor healthcare system were some of the reasons why Nigerian doctors and other healthcare practitioners were leaving the country for greener pastures abroad. Speaking with THISDAY yesterday, the NMA president said about 75,000 Nigerian doctors

were registered with the body, but over 33,000 have left the country, leaving behind only about 42,000 to man all health institutions in the country. He said: “In rural areas, we have one doctor to 22,000 people, while in towns and cities, we have one doctor to 10,000 Nigerians or one doctor to 12,000 Nigerians, whereas the World Health Organisation (WHO) said for any country to have a balanced ratio, it must have one doctor to 600 persons. “Nigerian doctors and other healthcare workers, including nurses and pharmacists, are leaving the country in droves because of the poor healthcare system and lack of job satisfaction. “The United Kingdom

employs, on the average, 12 Nigerian doctors every week. If Nigeria decides to graduate 3,000 doctors every year, without the doctors leaving this country, it will take us 25 years to meet the WHO estimate of one doctor to 600 persons,” he said. Faduyile said the UK, where most Nigerian doctors were migrating to, has many doctors for her population, whereas reverse was the case in Nigeria. The president had earlier mentioned during the 10th Annual Symposium of the Health Writers Association of Nigeria (HEWAN) in Lagos recently that there was a huge deficit in the nation’s health sector due to brain drain as some of the best healthcare practitioners were leaving the country through migration to more favourable

countries. The NMA president said: “Nigeria is losing some of its most educated, talented and professional healthcare practitioners to countries such as Namibia, Senegal, Ghana, UK, South Africa and many others. “This is because the government is not interested in giving adequate priority to health, low funding, no appropriate employment, low remuneration, lack of equipment to intervene and save lives, insecurity, bad roads, among other problems. “Now, it is taking a toll on the country as our people are suffering due to the shortage of workers, people are dying due to lack of effective healthcare system and Nigeria has one of the worst health indices in the world,” he said.

I’m Alive, Not Dead, Says Babangida Iyobosa Uwugiaren and Chuks Okocha in Abuja Former Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd) yesterday declared that he is still alive and not dead, and prayed Allah to forgive those who wish him dead, saying only God is the giver and taker of life, not human. Babangida, through his spokesman, Kassim Afegbua, was reacting to the fake news,

which suggested that he was dead. “It has become consistent fake news for quite some time now wishing our own IBB, the one we easily refer to as the last don of Nigeria politics, dead. The fake news bill would be a suitable response to this category of fake news carrier. “Babangida is very much alive and bubbling. He just started attending to friends and

associates who came to see him today, Sunday, December 15, 2019 right here at his Minna Hilltop mansion. He is full of life and in his characteristic bubbling mood. “May Allah forgive those who wish Babangida dead. God is the giver and taker of life, not humans. Death, as the irrevocable end of all creation, will surely come to everyone some day and at the appointed time and hour, but to deliberately spread fake

news and wish someone dead, is to take humanity to another bizarre level. May Allah forgive them,” said the statement. He added that Babangida “by the special grace of Allah, the omniscient and omnipotent one,’’ shall live to fulfil his journey and destiny in life, to the consternation of those who are always wishing him dead, adding this is about the third time this year.

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COMMENT

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

HOW FAR WILL NDDC MANAGEMENT GO? (1)

Daniel Abia writes that efforts are being intensified to thwart the President’s directive to investigate the commission

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he drama plaguing the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has refused to abate despite public outcry. This is the first time since its inception the commission is having two separate bodies to oversee its activities. It beats critical minds that a board that has been duly screened by the Senate on the order of President Mohammadu Buhari is still not inaugurated. The existence of the interim management committee (IMC), which everybody now believes is the creation of the Minister of the Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio, has since taken the shine off the board. The Dr. Joy Nunieh-led IMC has also divided the National Assembly along the lines of interest, the same way it has created division among the Niger Delta people, particularly, armed chair critics and sundry rights groups. It was reported that the Senate had threatened not to allow the three-man interim committee to defend its 2020 budget except a recognized board was allowed to take charge of the commission’s affairs. But the House of Representatives appears to have budged. What is not very clear is the insistence of the minister of the Niger Delta Ministry who prefers the interim committee to an already screened board legally recognized by the act that set up the commission. Findings within the NDDC hinted that Senator Akpabio has an overwhelming influence over the committee and members are answerable to him. The board, if sworn in to take over the affairs of the NDDC, will not report to the minister but to the president. Though the minister believes that the interim management committee was best positioned to midwife the forensic audit of the commission as ordered by President Buhari, not many people will agree with him. The board of the NDDC is backed by law. The committee is not. So, the committee is an illegal creation that is meant to protect the interest of few persons in the region. In an attempt to justify his decision of opting for the interim committee, Akpabio argued that the reason why the board was not inaugurated to start work at the commission was because there was an error in the composition of its membership. He said that until the correction in the composition of the board is made, it will not be inaugurated. The 15-man board was confirmed on November 5, and the Senate President, Lawan Ahmed instructed the board to take over the affairs of the NDDC with immediate effect. On the day of the screening, the IMC chairperson, Joy Nunieh was absent which further generated the rumour of some fast game going on in the commission. Sources hinted that there has been intense lobbying by the Akpabio camp to discourage the inauguration of the board. This does not go down well with some persons in power. The Senate Committee chairman on NDDC, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi was reported to have asked the management to explain how $91million and N6billion in the commission’s account was utilized. Akpabio had alleged that those who have wrecked the NDDC are those calling for the dissolution of the interim management committee. He had made it known that about 10 auditing companies had been contacted already to carry out the task of cleaning the mess in the commission. He explained that each of those companies would investigate the activities of NDDC in each of the nine

THE JOY NUNIEH- LED IMC HAS DIVIDED THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ALONG THE LINES OF INTEREST, THE SAME WAY IT HAS CREATED DIVISION AMONG THE NIGER DELTA PEOPLE

states that make up the commission while the remaining one would work at the headquarters in Port Harcourt. Sources said lobbying is being intensified to thwart the effort of government from carrying out the threat of investigating the commission. Doing so will expose a lot of people whose hands have been soiled with scandalous contract deals in the NDDC. But Akpabio looks bent to ensure that the interventionist agency is thoroughly probed so that the incoming board can start on a clean slate. It is not clear whether the Nigeria Extractive Industry Transparency Initiatives (NEITI) is part of the companies or agencies contacted to carry out the audit. Some Nigerians had rooted for this agency having shown capacity to do a thorough job. Already, fingers are beginning to point at the direction of the Senate Committee chairman, Nwaoboshi as the owner of the consultancy firm that the NDDC pays N1billion for liaising between the international oil companies (IOCs), and the Commission to collect the statutory contributions to the development of the Niger Delta region. This allegation was basically one of the numerous reasons why the National Assembly is skeptical about allowing Akpabio to supervise the forensic audit of the NDDC. Nwaoboshi would fire back by asking the former Governor of Akwa Ibom State to explain how $91million and another N6billion was utilized under his watch as the supervising minister of the commission. There are several allegations of huge sleaze rocking the commission. One of such has to do with the money said to have been injected into the completion of the NDDC headquarters located along the Eastern By-pass. Meanwhile, last Tuesday, the House of Representatives ordered the commission to clear all its liabilities through the implementation of its 2019 budget. The House of Representatives Committee on NDDC issued the directive when the interim management of the commission, led by the acting Managing Director, Dr. Joy Nunieh, appeared before the lawmakers to defend the budget proposed for 2019. Before now, the committee, at the last sitting, had vowed not to consider the 2020 budget proposed by NDDC until the 2019 budget was presented and considered. And this is capable of causing a serious developmental setback for the commission and the Niger Delta at large. The Chairman of the committee, Mr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, accused the commission of failing to implement its 2019 budget due to widespread infractions and sharp practices by the former management. Tunji-Ojo said that for the implementation of NDDC’s 2019 budget, the commission must present the list of all contractors it owed, adding that payment of claims would only be made after thorough verification and approval by the committee. The lawmaker also stated that the NDDC must recover the over N1 trillion owed it by various entities to offset the commission’s liabilities. He made it clear that when the recommendations by the committee are approved by the House, all ongoing projects in the NNDC’s 2019 budget would be rolled over to 2020, which he said would be considered after the approval. He lamented that the commission was 14 months behind schedule in implementing 2019 budget, describing it as a huge drawback. Abia wrote from Port Harcourt

GARLANDS FOR AJIMOBI AT 70

Bolaji Tunji pays tribute to the former Governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi, at age 70

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oday December 16, the immediate past governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi will celebrate his 70th birthday. There’s no doubt that this is a major, significant milestone in the life of any individual and worthy of celebration. No one knows this better than my boss, the celebrant who never fails to inform friends and associates that attaining age 70 is significant for him and to some of us, another broken jinx as most of the male members in his family never made it to 70 years. That is not the only reason that makes this enviable age significant. In the Holy Bible, the figure 70 is used on 56 different occasions. The number seven represents perfection while the 10 represents completeness and God’s law, symbolizing perfect spiritual order. In Numbers 11:16, Moses, shortly after receiving and reading the Covenant that God gave to him for the Israelites, appointed 70 elders who he took up to Mount Sinai to have a special meal with God (Exodus 24: 9-11). Also, the Israelites spent a total number of 70 years in captivity in Babylon (Jeremiah 29: 10) before freedom came. Seventy years is that year when shackles are broken. For an individual at 70, you look back and count the number of your years for a fulfilling three scores and 10 and expressing appreciation to the Almighty. Indeed, for my boss, it has been a fulfilled and complete life. He has achieved many things that one could ever desire in life. He is blessed with children to be proud of. He climbed to the highest level of corporate ladder by becoming the Managing Director and Chief Executive of a multinational oil company, National Oil and Chemical Marketing Company before his foray into politics where he also earned an unprecedented two terms as Governor of Oyo State. Significantly at age 70, Senator Ajimobi who has earned the sobriquet, Koseleri

(unprecedented) is still going strong, most people would evince surprise that he is 70 years old, because he does not look that age. He still has the vigour and the look of someone much younger and he’s still very active in the affairs of Oyo State and the nation. The term overthe-hill does not apply here. Like other world leaders before him, he is still an active participant in writing the history of the state and the country. He has thus joined the pantheon of other world leaders who continued going strong at age 70. Benjamin Franklin was one of the founding fathers of the United States of America and he helped draft the US constitution at 70. Winston Churchill was also 70 years old when he led the United Kingdom to victory in World War II; Gold Meir became the Prime Minister of Israel at 70 while actress Helen Hayes won a second Oscar awards at age 70 years. Writer Mark Twain sums up the significance of the 70th year when he said, ‘the seventieth birthday. It is the time of life when you arrive at a new and awful dignity; when you may throw aside the decent reserves which have oppressed you for a generation and stand unafraid and unabashed upon your seven-terraced summit and look down and teach—unrebuked’. Clearly, the later part of Mark Twain statement sums up the person of Senator Abiola Ajimobi, he has always stood unafraid; if there is anything said about him, it is his boldness and the unpopular (in our society) way of saying it the way it is. The age 70 now further confers on him that characteristics of saying it the way it is. He has earned it. To most of us that served with him in the administration, he was not only a boss, he was also a father figure who never missed any opportunity to teach one or two things about life to people around him. He would jokingly say, ‘although I do not have a Ph.D in academics, I have a Ph.D about life’s experiences’. He would prefer to say it the way it is, believing it is better to get it off your chest and give yourself a

catharsis rather than keep what you have in you bottled up. He says it is also one of the secrets of his youthful look. As governor of Oyo State, from 2011-2019, Senator Ajimobi made a great impact during his stewardship, even his critics are quick to acknowledge that fact. He has been able to set a standard that other administration will find difficult to match in years to come. His unprecedented achievement stems from his preparedness for governance and for that matter, anything he sets his mind to do. One thing I learnt early enough in my association with him is his global view of issues and a firm grasp and understanding of human nature. Thus, you must be adequately prepared before you make any presentation to him. He expects you to be painstaking. This probably stemmed from his highly successful adventure in the private sector. As governor, he laid a solid foundation for peace and security of life in the state. The brigandage and arson that earned Oyo State, the unsavoury sobriquet of ‘wild, wild west’ became history. He believed that the provision of peace and security would create an atmosphere for the state’s economy to thrive. This manifested during his administration. The hospitality industry grew by 147 per cent with hotels and event centres springing up across the state. There was a renaissance of the nighttime economy. For eight years, there was no known case of bank robbery, which before his tenure, was a major issue. Giants strides were created in infrastructural development, the administration constructed and rehabilitated the highest number of roads in the history of modern Oyo State. In primary health care, the Ajimobi made a major impact. Oyo State became the first to introduce free health care for its citizenry in the country. With less than N1000 per month, you are covered for health benefits. The greatest impact of that administration was more felt in the area of education with the introduction of the

School Governing Board (SGB) policy which attracted various stakeholders to participate in running the affairs of their schools. This attracted over N2.8billion into the school system for upgrading of facilities and renovation. The policy was then adopted for understudy by other Southwest states. There was also the cancellation of automatic promotion which earned Oyo State the best WAEC result in 18 years. The establishment of the First Technical University in the Country, having realized that skilled labour was becoming a thing of the past in the country. People have described him as a brilliant man, no one knows this better than those who have worked closely with him, with his attention to details. He takes in everything presented to him. You cannot present a figure today and you come back with a different figure on the same issue the following day. He would ask you why it changed, this in spite of the numerous files and memos that have passed across his table. Do I need to state his love for speaking directly to the people without going through laborious and elaborate speeches that could make you go to sleep and that had been written by his team? Once he is at a function, he captures everything within that environment and that becomes the subject of his speech which he delivers effortlessly. Also worthy of emulation is his sartorial elegance, whether he’s spotting his trade mark Agbada which has created a brand that is uniquely his, in corporate attire or in casuals: those clothes look as if tailored specially for him. And if you work closely with him, you are also either a tulip of fashion or you try your best to match up, else‌you may go home to change. And as he clocks this enviable milestone of 70 years, one can only wish him a more robust health. Tunji was Special Adviser, Comm and Strategy to Senator Ajimobi

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T H I S D AY ˾ MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2019

EDITORIAL THE $30 BILLION LOAN PROPOSAL Do we need the loan? The National Assembly must be circumspect

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n a rehashed letter recently read on the floor of the Senate, President Muhammadu Buhari sought approval for an external borrowing plan of $29.96 billion to execute key infrastructural projects under the “2016 – 2018 external borrowing plan”. In the letter, the president recalled that he was merely resubmitting a request sent to the 8th National Assembly that was rejected under the previous leadership. While there is ordinarily nothing wrong with the idea of borrowing, we believe the National Assembly should be circumspect in examining this request that has serious economic implications for the country. Speaking at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the United Nations Working Together Conversation last year, UN deputy secretary-general, Ms Amina Mohammed described our national debt profile as worrying. WHILE THERE MAY BE “In my country, COMPELLING NEEDS the level of debt FOR SOME EXTERNAL BORROWING, WE BELIEVE is worrying, but IT IS FIRST IMPORTANT TO it is happening all over Africa. CLOSE ALL LOOPHOLES If that is the way AND DRAINPIPES IN THE we want to go, SYSTEM we need to sit down and have a better conversation….” Ms. Mohammed said. That conversation is yet to be held in Nigeria despite the huge burden of debts. For instance, while there may be compelling needs for some external borrowing, we believe it is first important to close all loopholes and drainpipes in the system; drastically restructure and rationalise government agencies, most of which have duplicated functions and reduce the huge overhead cost that consumes a large chunk of annual budgets. If we ignore

Letters to the Editor

all this and borrow, such funds would never be well utilised and properly channeled, while the nation would be saddled with huge debts to service. Therefore, we query the wisdom of borrowing 30 billion dollars, especially at this period.

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

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

ndeed, while meeting with the leadership of the senate when this idea was first mooted in 2016, the then Finance Minister, Mrs Kemi Adeosun painted a pathetic picture of our national economy. She said: “By the time we pay salaries, pay debt, nothing is left. So, for these next few years, I think we have to take a gamble as a nation. We must take a gamble that ‘look, if we fix our roads, fix our power, can we generate more than that additional cost?’ she asked. Thus, from the outset, the whole idea was a big gamble. We cannot deny the need for the injection of funds to help reflate the economy, stimulate consumption and production, create jobs and engender economic growth. But we would like to see the fine details of these deals before our nation is committed financially. Some of the questions that remain unanswered are: Does the Buhari administration have on its side skilled officials that can negotiate the fine lines of the ‘conditionalities’ for such heavy loan? If we borrow such a jumbo sum under the current situation, what is the guarantee that the money will not go down the drain? At best, such a loan deal may buy the nation two to three years of some feel-good situation but then, what follows will be the problem of paying back. This becomes even more challenging against the background that most of the projects listed for funding under the proposal are neither regenerative nor capable of bringing enough returns on investments. We urge the National Assembly to critically interrogate all the issues in the presidential proposal before taking a decision.

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

NIGERIA’S DEMOCRACY AND THE RULE OF LAW

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ithin a week, two newspapers, The Punch and Business Day, have raised questions around the sustainability of Nigeria’s democracy, especially in the wake of the violation of human rights, disobedience of court orders and attempts to annihilate

the rule of law. It’s been over 20 years since Nigeria transcended from military rule to adopt what is said to be the best system of government across the world —democracy. Unfortunately, a recent editorial by Business Day has served as a firm reminder to President Muhammadu Buhari that this is not the 1985 military regime. The editors of the online medium are concerned about the direction of Nigeria’s democracy with the recent use of extrajudicial means to shut the opposition. Political science students have a saying that “the worst democracy is better than the best military rule”, and the elementary class will define democracy as a system of the people, by the people and for the people. Democracy should therefore enable freedom of participation, association and human right, which drives development. Sadly, it appears that recent practices in Nigeria are extremely different from what the democratic system of other countries represents. If our founding fathers turn back from their graves, will they see that country they fought for from the colonial masters? Or will they be filled with regrets? This calls for deep reflections.

Pieter Williams Botha, a South African politician once said, “Black people cannot rule themselves because they don’t have the brain and mental capacity to govern a society. Give them guns, they will kill themselves, give them power they will steal all the government money; give them independence and democracy, they will use it to promote tribalism, ethnicity, bigotry, hatred, killings and wars”. This statement may just reflect the democratic system in Nigeria and the system of governance has, however, not proven this to be erroneous at several levels. The 1999 constitution in Chapter II is very clear on the motto of the country, which is Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress but the level of disunity has led to several insecurity issues in various parts of our dear country, thereby stalling adequate progress. Issues of religious differences and high level of intolerance is consistently on the rise. Territorialism at various state level and expression of ignorance of some citizens, disregarding the provisions of Chapter II of the constitution cannot be divorced from the cause of ethnicity and communal clashes in the country in the name of citizenship. The struggle for resources has become scarce due to inadequate governance institutions and visibility. This menace has characterized our democratic system. The provisions of fundamental human rights are now misrepresented as mere making of statements, distant from what the law requires. The acclaimed dividends of democracy such as rights to life, quality education, adequate health

system and basic infrastructure seem to be more accessible and available during the military rule than the democratic system of government Nigerians fought for. Even though the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Tanko Muhammed, claimed he would not tolerate disobedience of court orders, his body language to such doesn’t reflect the claim. The judiciary is no longer the hope of the common man. There have been various instances of disobedience of court orders especially by the executive arm of government. The delay in passing judgement and various conflicting court judgements especially around election related matters has led to waste of taxpayers’ money. The judicial system, no doubt needs to re-position itself to the apex of trust and integrity in order to shape the democratic system. Similarly, public office holders, either elected or appointed must see such office to be worthy of trust, and capable of delivering on the needs of democracy. Elected officials at the federal and state levels should use their office and power to make laws for the peace, order and good governance of the Federation. Lawmakers should engage in people-oriented policies, and create an enabling environment in all parts of the country. Consequently, there is an urgent need for political office holders to look inwards, be accessible and increase engagement with citizens at all levels in order to have a progressive democratic government that would eradicate poverty, insecurity, and hunger. Oluwaseyi Moses, Zonal Program officer, YIAGA Africa

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MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019 •T H I S D AY

MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019 • T H I S D AY

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T H I S D AY ˾ MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG

POLITICS

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

M O N D AY D I S C O U R S E

Roll Call of Governors Walking the Impunity Lane Nseobong Okon-Ekong writes that there is a growing resolve by an increasing number of state chief executives to deploy instruments of oppression to mute dissenting voices

Ayade

Emmanuel

Matawalle

Dickson

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T H I S D AY ˾ MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019

MONDAY DISCOURSE

Ganduje

So, that is why he has been in custody till date. We have filed an application for his release on bail on the ground that he is entitled to bail pending his actual arraignment in the appropriate court. We are awaiting hearing in that application.” Another case of arbitrary imprisonment of a journalist was recorded in Akwa Ibom with the incarceration of Mary Ekere, who was remanded in prison for allegedly taking photos of task force officials carrying out a raid. Ekere is employed by The Post, an Akwa Ibom-based newspaper. She spent two nights in prison. She was reportedly arraigned at a sanitation court but was taken back to prison despite meeting her bail conditions. The magistrate was said to have left the court without signing the bail documents. Ms Ekere, wearing prisons uniform, was taken to a sanitation court. Though she has since been released at the intervention of the Akwa Ibom State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, whose Chairman, Amos Etuk upheld Ekere’s innocence and insisted on “her unconditional release.” The action of the Emmanuel-led administration in Akwa Ibom State is shocking to many watchers of his government, as he was viewed as good tempered and accommodating. It is on record that. Mr. Emmanuel sacked one of his commissioners, Mr. Udo Ekpenyong, for allegedly insulting his predecessor, Senator Godswill Akpabio. Governor Emmanuel further demonstrated his disdain for people who lack good manners when he publicly condemned the unruly behaviour that some youths exhibit on social media. He has also been reported, saying that he has condoned “insults” from the opposition in the state in the course of doing his job as governor, but will not be intimidated. In another case, the Akwa Ibom State governor asked the state house of assembly to probe the assault on a man who was attacked for allegedly insulting a local government chairman in the state. He said, “I roundly condemn the assault that took place at Abak LGA, currently circulating on the social media. Such actions are unacceptable in a civilized society and does not represent our core values.” The battle of Jones Abiri with law enforcement agents in Bayelsa State shows the resolve of state chief executives to deploy instruments of oppression to mute dissenting voices. Abiri who publishes and edits his newspaper, The Weekly Source in Yenagoa, capital of Bayelsa has been in and out of detention since 2016 when he was first arrested. Many believe that he was detained for his scathing criticism of Governor Seriake Dickson. The lead story in his newspaper before his incarceration alluded to the fact that Dickson’s bad policies was wrecking Bayelsa State. He was kept away from the public for two years and considered dead by many until pressure from the media and rights activists forced his abductors to present him before a magistrate court in Abuja. Since no evidence was provided against him for the allegation of demanding monies from oil companies and also the fact that he was not brought before a court of competent jurisdiction, the case was thrown out. Abiri was awarded N10.5 million as compensation for unlawful detention, which the government has not paid to him. Last May, Abiri was guest of the DSS again. He was taken to court on the same charges for which he was earlier set free. Though, he has been allowed to go home on bail, Abiri may yet be on the

el-Rufai

Agba Jalingo in court

Jones Abiri

Kefas

watch list of security agents. In Zamfara State, which is controlled by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), leading members of the opposition, APC have been railroaded into prison for ‘insulting’ Governor Bello Metawalle. Bello Dankande, a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in the administration of the former governor, Abdul’aziz Yari was sent to prison by an Upper Shariah Court in Zamfara for allegedly sponsoring social media users in sabotaging the state’s security. Mr Dankande was also accused of colluding with outlawed volunteers groups (Yansakai) to steal cows in Bakura Local Government Area. The state chairman of the APC, Alhaji Lawal Liman, condemned the action and described it as political witch hunt. “I commend APC members in the state for their resilience in supporting the party in spite of the threats, intimidation and harassment from the present administration in the state under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). I am appealing to members of the APC in Zamfara to consider the challenges as a test from God. You know it is normal in politics (for) members of the opposition parties to face such challenges; in spite of the challenges, APC

maintains its position as the strongest political party in this state.” News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the state Secretary, APC Publicity Committee, Alhaji Ibrahim Danmalikin-Gidangoga was earlier arraigned before Upper Shariah Court 1, Gusau, over alleged defamation and incitement. On the same day, Ibrahim Danmaliki Gidan Goga, a renowned Nigerian journalist, human right activist, member of Forward with Buhari group, who was also a Commissioner for Information, special adviser to the Zamfara State Government and current spokesperson for the APC in the state, was harassed, humiliated and arrested before he was arraigned at the Upper Shari’a Court in Gusau over allegation of ‘insulting’ the Governor Bello Matawalle as well as a spurious allegation of inciting public disturbance. Commenting on the Zamfara situation and similar ones around the country, Abuja-based human rights lawyer, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, noted, “One would have thought that the Hate Speech and Social Media Bills and laws of such nature are weapons in the hands of the ruling All Progressive Congress but the instant case has proven otherwise as it is clear that politicians

In Zamfara State, which is controlled by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), leading members of the opposition, APC have been railroaded into prison for ‘insulting’ Governor Bello Metawalle. Bello Dankande, a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in the administration of the former governor, Abdul’aziz Yari was sent to prison by an Upper Shariah Court in Zamfara for allegedly sponsoring social media users in sabotaging the state’s security. Mr Dankande was also accused of colluding with outlawed volunteers groups (Yansakai) to steal cows in Bakura Local Government Area. The state chairman of the APC, Alhaji Lawal Liman, condemned the action and described it as political witch hunt

Idris

and political lackeys are hell bent on using the instrumentality of the law to muffle opposition at all cost and by all means. At this juncture, it is imperative to hint that you can always tell the degree of freedom in a country from the tone and temperament of its press, the variety and diversity of its print and electronic media, and the array of voices on its air waves. It is our belief that in a civilized and democratic society, aggrieved citizens have the right of speaking freely against or convening peaceful assemblies, meetings and rallies against unpopular government measures and policies. In a democratic society, criticism of government no matter how scathing can never amount to hate speech, democracy is better built when dissidents are able to air their opinions without fear of harassment, intimidation or arrest.” He went further to situate his argument within the context of the Nigerian constitution. “Specifically, Section 39 of the 1999 CFRN as altered provides for the “right to freedom of expression and the press”. Subsection 1 of that section amplifies this further by stating that “every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information, ideas and opinions. “Subsection 3 states that “nothing in this section shall invalidate any law that is reasonably justifiable in a democratic society(a) For the purpose of preventing the disclosure of information received in confidence, maintaining the authority and independence of courts or regulating telephony, wireless broadcasting, television or the exhibition of cinematograph films; or (b) Imposing restrictions upon persons holding office under the Government of the Federation or of a State, members of the armed forces of the Federation or members of the Nigeria Police Force or Government security services or established by law.” Wife of passionate critic of the Kano State governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, told journalists that security agents waited for her husband, Abubakar Idris, better known as Dadiyata, to arrive home from work, then whisked him away to an unknown destination. Dadiyata, a lecturer at the Federal University Dutsinma, Katsina State has not been seen since August 1. Because Dadiyata does not hide his liaison with leading figures in the opposition PDP in Kano state, many have suggested that his detention may be politically motivated. In its bid to clamp down on dissenting voices, the Kano State government had embarrassed itself by arresting and detaining the wrong person. Musician Sanusi Abdullahi, better known as SK was mistakenly held in the place of Yakassi, also known as, YKS who released a musical video criticizing Ganduje. The only glimmer of hope entertained by family members, friends and associates of Stephen Kefas, a journalist who consistently expresses unfavourable opinion about the administration of Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State, is alive is that the authorities have admitted that he is in their custody, but he has been refused bail. As the groundswell of umbrage against the federal government’s tendency to close the civil space gathers momentum, THISDAY would like to lay emphasis on the fact that an increasing number of state governors are gaining notoriety for intimidation, harassment and human rights violations

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Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 08038901925

Protecting the Nation’s Maritime Domain For the continuous protection of maritime assets and the preservation of law and order at sea, the Nigerian Navy recently flagged off the construction of Nigeria's latest warship, Landing Ship Tank 100, in Albwardy Damen Shipyards in Dubai, Chiemelie Ezeobi writes

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or the Nigerian Navy (NN), the need to protect the nation’s territorial integrity has always been top priority. Thus, they are always on the move to boost its fleet by acquiring the necessary platforms needed to patrol not just the nation’s waterways but also the Gulf of Guinea waters. One of such moves materialised recently in Sharjah, Dubai, when they flagged off the construction of Nigeria’s latest Landing Ship Tank (LST) 100 at Damen Shipyards. Noting that the warship would help to secure Nigeria’s maritime environment, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who flagged off the keel said upon completion, it would be deployed for the protection of maritime assets and the preservation of law and order at sea. Prior to the trip, the Navy Director of Information, Commodore Suleiman Dahun, “the construction of the ship is expected to be completed in May 2020 and when completed and delivered, the LST will play crucial roles in the security of Nigeria’s maritime environment and beyond.� Meanwhile, at the flag off in Albwardy Damen Shipyards, Ibas said it would also provide an opportunity for closer interaction with the management of DAMEN regarding their expectation from this procurement. He said: “The ceremony is a significant step towards actualising the dream of restoring NN’s sealift capability, after the service decommissioned two similar LSTs more than 10 years ago. I recall that the Nigerian government acquired two Type 502 amphibious vessels NNS AMBE and NNS OFIOM, built by HDW German builders in 1978. “These vessels served the navy meritoriously in the 1980s-90s, playing significant roles during the ECOMOG intervention Operations in Liberia and Sierra Leone, as well as other peace support operations in Lebanon. The NN’s acquisition of this LST 100 will certainly go a long way in filling the operational gap created by the decommissioning of the two NN ships. “As you may be aware, the bid for this project was highly competitive, as several other shipbuilding companies tendered for her construction. Permit me, therefore, to congratulate DAMEN Shipyards on winning the bid for this project. The selection of DAMEN Shipyards to execute the project was based on its track record of high quality ship building capacity, engineering as well as a belief in the company’s ability to adhere to the timeline for delivery of the ship. “Two NN Tugboats DOLPHIN RIMA and DOLPHIN MIRA build by DAMEN Shipyards are still operational and in service on the NN Fleet. Hence, cognisant of your pedigree and experience over the years, the NN is confident that you will not only build this ship in line with the specifications and configuration to the highest standards, but also deliver the project on schedule. Timely delivery is not negotiable. “The LST when completed and deliveredis expected to play crucial roles in the security of Nigeria’s maritime environment and beyond. Specifically, the ship will be engaged in the protection of maritime resources and the preservation of law and order at sea, thus contributing significantly to promotion of global maritime commerce and maritime power projection in Nigerian Maritime environment and the Gulf of Guinea at large.

Chief of the Naval Sta, Vice Admiral Ibok- Ete Ibas, performing the keel laying ceremony for the commencement of the construction of Nigeria's latest warship, a landing ship tank, in Albwardy Damen Shipyards, Sharjah, UAE, recently ...DINFO

A group photograph of the CNS, sta of the Albwardy Damen Shipyards and senior Nigerian Navy oďŹƒcers taken to mark the keel laying ceremony

Chief of the Naval Sta Vice Admiral Ibok- Ete Ibas presenting a souvenir to the Managing Director of Albwardy Damen Shipyards, Sharjah,UAE, after the keel laying ceremony

“It is therefore my fervent belief that this Shipyard will complete the construction of the LST with all the attention

and due diligence that it deserves, to rekindle our historic relationship and pave way for other areas of collaboration

in the future. “On this note, I would like to thank The President and Commander in Chief of theArmed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari, for his untiring support for the rejuvenation of the NN fleet since assumption of office. I also thank the management and staff of DAMEN Shipyards as well as everyone who has contributed one way or the other towards successful commencement of this shipbuilding project. The NN and indeed the government and good people of Nigeria look forward to a masterpiece that will reflect the best skill as well as the highest standard of engineering, safety and observance of timeliness in the construction of the LST. “May l, on behalf of all personnel of the NN, once again appreciate the leadership of DAMEN Shipyard for the honour given to me and other members of the NN delegation to witness this keel-laying ceremony. May God bless your efforts and keep you accident free. Like we say in the NN, Onward Together.�

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Plastic Plague in Nigeria: Lessons from Other Nations Uche Anichebe The Trouble with Plastic id you know that a plastic bottle requires an average of 400 - 1,000 years to decompose; and that the average time that a plastic bag is used is for about 12-30 minutes before it is trashed? Did you also know that annually about 500 billion to 1 trillion plastic bags are used worldwide; and that every single piece of plastic ever made still exists in some form? More than ever before, our planet is facing increased plastic pollution, which has resulted in climate change, and has severe socio-economic, health, and environmental implications. Bringing this issue close to home, according to a report issued by the American Association for the Advancement of Science in 2015, Nigeria was ranked as the ninth in the world for plastic pollution and mismanagement of plastic waste. It is also estimated that Nigeria generates more than 32 million metric tonnes of waste annually, most of which constitutes plastics, with Lagos alone producing about 10,000 metric tonnes of waste daily. These statistics do not come as a surprise considering that the Nigerian government is yet to join global effort to checkmate plastic pollution, despite that its major cities are plagued by plastic pollutants. According to the statistics released by the World Health Organisation in 2016, four Nigerian cities (Anambra, Kaduna, Aba and Umuahia) were ranked amongst the 20 most polluted cities in the world.

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Implication of Plastic Pollution Plastic pollution is a major environmental problem in several African countries, including Nigeria. It contributes to climate change and the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. According to a report issued by the Centre for International Law in 2019, by 2050 plastic could emit 56 billion tons of Greenhouse gas emissions, as much as 14 percent of the earth’s remaining carbon budget. Plastic pollution is a form of chemical pollution which severely disrupts the environment. When plastics are dumped on the soil, they decompose incredibly slowly and release toxic chemicals such as the preservatives used in their production, into the soil, and this has the potential to harm plants and animals when they are accumulated. In addition, plastic pollution is also harmful to human life. A recent report - Microplastics in DrinkingWater, which was issued by the World Health Organisation (“WHO�) revealed that microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment and have been found in marine water, wastewater, fresh water, food, air and drinking water (both bottled water and tap water). The WHO also noted that some of the world’s most popular bottled water brands contained tiny pieces of plastic. Although plastics are detrimental to marine life, most of the world’s plastics are destined to end in the world’s oceans. According to a 2016 report issued by the World Economic Forum and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, if preventive steps are not taken, by 2050 there will be more plastic than fish in the world’s oceans. Most sea creatures confuse plastic as food and consume them. Hence a number of sea creatures have been found to contain large proportions of plastics in their stomach. These plastics are not capable of digestion and potentially block the digestive systems of such sea creatures, which ultimately results in their death. Sometimes, sea creatures get entangled in plastic products like fishing nets, sieves and large debris, which restricts their movement and eventually results in starvation and death. On a basic level, when plastic disposal is not properly managed, they make the environment unsustainable. For instance, in several cities in Nigeria, due to the purge in plastic pollution, light showers of rain result in excessive flooding, because the landfills and drainage systems are clogged with waste, especially plastics and polythene bags. When trash in the form of plastic and plastic bags are littered in the environments, they reduce the aesthetic quality of such places and may result in a decline in their monetary

Plastic waste value. In extreme circumstance, this may impact on the physical and mental health of the residents of such places. Since plastics are non-biodegradable and last for hundreds of years, for every plastic can which is casually tossed onto the street by an individual, such individual, as well as his/her grand-children will experience these terrible consequences of plastic pollution, unless drastic steps are taken to curb plastic pollution Actions taken in other Nations There is a global consciousness about plastic pollution. It was reported by the UN Environment, that as of July 2018, 127 out of 1921 countries reviewed (about 66 per cent) have adopted some form of legislation to regulate plastic bags. With particular emphasis to Africa, according to a report by the National Geographic in April, 2019, the African continent now leads the world in bag regulations, with 34 countries adopting taxes or bans -31 of them in sub-Saharan Africa. Unfortunately, Nigeria is not one of those countries. Rwanda has always been in the frontline, in the combat against plastic pollution and in this regard, has been a beacon to other African and non-African nations. As soon as you arrive the dainty Kigali Airport in Rwanda, you will be greeted by a large sign-post reading, “Use of non-biodegradable polythene bags is prohibited�. Since 2008, Rwanda instituted a national ban on nonbiodegradable plastic bags, also known as polyethylene bags, which is very common in Nigeria. As an alternative, businesses in Rwanda now use paper bags, cloth and other biodegradable materials; and defaulters face heavy fines or term of imprisonment. As a reward for its laudable actions, Rwanda is a pristine nation and Kigali, its capital city is acclaimed as the cleanest city in Africa. In addition, it has been reported that since the ban, the country eliminated plastic pollution and has seen a reduction in animal deaths, soil erosion, flooding and malaria. In 2017, Kenya introduced a ban on the manufacturing, sale and distribution of plastic carrier bags; and imposed the most severe penalties for plastic bag use, to wits: four-year jail term or $40,000 fine. Following the ban, polypropylene bags, which is a type of plastic that is easier to recycle than polythene became a popular alternative in Kenya. In addition to the effort of the government, civil society organisations in Kenya have also given voice to the plastic revolution in Kenya. Interestingly, three years ago a group of Kenyans organised a beach cleanup, collecting

Photo credit: Google more than 30 tonnes of plastic waste and seven tonnes of flip-flops, which was used in the construction of the world’s first dhow made entirely from discarded flip flops and waste plastics. This birthed the “Flipflopi Project�, in which the project team (traveling on the Dhow which sailed along the coast from Kenya to Cape Town) engage relevant stakeholders, share solutions to plastic pollution and advocate for a change in mindset about single use plastic. The dhow has sailed across the coast of African cities (i.e. Zanzibar, Mombasa, Nairobi, Lamu and Cape Town), raising awareness about marine plastic pollution. Other African countries which have placed a ban on plastic bags include Tanzania and South Africa Although the use of plastic bags is not illegal in the United Kingdom, its use has been on the decline, owing to UK’s improved strategies for dealing with discarded plastic. In January 2018, the UK placed a ban on microbeads and the Buckingham Palace has implemented a plan to phase out the use of disposable plastics at royal estates and introduced biodegradable takeaway containers. In addition, a number of UK businesses such as Sainsbury, and Solero have shown commitment to the reduction of plastic pollution, by removing plastic bags from produce and bakery aisles; whist restaurants like Pizza Express, Wagamama and Costa Coffee have put an end to the use of plastic straws, which are out rightly banned in Scotland. How Nigeria can Take Action Amidst global effort to curb plastic plague, Nigeria has not entirely adopted a ‘siddon look’ approach. In May 2019, the House of Representatives passed a Bill for the banning of plastic bags in Nigeria, called the ‘Plastic Bag Prohibition Bill (the “Bill�). The Bill provides for an Act to prohibit the use, manufacture and importation of all plastic bags used for commercial and household packaging in order to address harmful impacts to oceans, rivers, lakes, forests, environment, as well as human beings; and also to relieve pressure on landfills and waste management and for other related matters. In addition, the Bill mandates retailers to offer a paper bag to customers at a point of sale; and criminalises default by retailers. The penalty prescribed in the Bill for contravention by individuals is a fine not exceeding N500,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or to both. However, defaulting companies will be liable to a fine of N5million. Whilst the passage of the Bill is a laudable

step, it is hoped that the Bill will be enacted into law within the shortest time possible. However, taking cognisance of the fact that a number of legislative Bills fall through (especially where they are not of particular interest to the government); and considering that the country has a number of laws which are not adequately enforced, the Bill may not offer an immediate solution to the plastic plague in Nigeria. Given that plastic pollution requires urgent attention, there is therefore need to seek immediate recourse to alternative measures. The preliminary step in addressing plastic pollution is to have a re-orientation and instill behavioral change. This includes intentionally reducing our usage of plastic bags and instead opting for environment friendly bio-degradable alternatives like bags made from paper, fibre, and fabric. A further basic step is to take our own shopping bags to the malls, markets and dry cleaners, and re-using them as often as possible. Also, before thrashing plastic materials, always consider how they can be reused; and encourage family and friends to act accordingly. The government can also assist significantly by supporting eco-friendly businesses. This can be achieved by providing grants and other special benefits to such businesses, so as to incentivize them and spur other businesses. Plastic recycling is also a means of managing plastics. This involves collecting plastic waste and reprocessing same into new products with the view to reducing the amount of plastic in the waste stream and conserving the environment. Plastics can be recycled into several items including kitchen wares, trash bags and packing materials. In several countries of the world, including Ghana, South Africa and Scotland, companies are effectively recycling plastics by using plastic wastes in the construction of asphalt roads and paving blocks. Unfortunately, the Bill does have provisions on recycling. Given the importance of recycling in plastic waste management, it is recommended that same be introduced in the Bill before its assent by the president of Nigeria. However, it is important to note that not all plastics can be recycled. Unlike thermoplastics, thermoset cannot be re-melted and re-molded into new products because they contain polymers which form irreversible chemical bond. Also, the downside to recycling is that in the recycling process, second-hand plastics may absorb toxic chemicals such as flame retardants, which are dangerous for human health. In addition, the process undertaken in recycling plastics often results in the emission of toxic gases into the environment, which threatens the vegetation as well as human and animal health. These notwithstanding, it is generally agreed that recycling reduces plastic wastes and is a better option than disposing wastes into landfills and the ocean. It is also crucial to create increased awareness in Nigeria of the dangers of plastic pollution, by educating relevant stakeholders in the production and distribution chain (i.e.: manufacturers, market authorities and store owners) in Nigeria on how they can contribute in combatting the plastic plague in their communities, through change in policy, production and packaging process, as applicable. Civil societies and concerned individuals have key roles to play in creating such awareness to such stakeholders and the general public. In addition, we can encourage businesses which are eco-friendly by patronising them and encouraging others to follow suit. Conclusion Owing to it far reaching implications, plastic pollution has become a global concern; and it would be remise of Nigeria if we do not take urgent curative measures. In order to be effective, such measures must be intentional and collective, involving the private and public sector. It would also require positive approach and sacrifice of the specious conveniences that plastic materials provide. In the global revolution against plastic, Nigeria cannot be left behind. If other nations can do it, we can. -Anichebe, an attorney in Nigeria, is also an associate in Banwo & Ighodalo.

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BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET OVERNIGHT OBB

A S

Email obinna.chima@thisdaylive.com 08152447875

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Quick Takes Smile Fetes Customers at Yuletide

AWARD WELL DESERVED

L-R: Managing Director / Chairman, Nigeria Aviation (NIGAV) Awards, Mr. Fortune Idu; Business Head, West and Central Africa, Arik Air, Mr. Sylvester O. Egogo; Pilot, Arik Air, Captain Chris Najomo; and Secretary / Legal Adviser, Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Clifford Omozeghian, presenting the Award for the Airline Of The Year 2019 to Arik Air at the 10th NIGAV Award, held in Lagos...recently

FG, States Urged to Develop Policies to Halt Rural-Urban Migration Peter Uzoho The federal and state governments have been advised to introduce specific policies to address rural-urban migration in the country. The Financial Derivatives Company Limited, stated this in its latest monthly economic update, obtained at the weekend. According to the report, youth participation in agriculture was indispensable for the desired growth in domestic production. It noted that agriculture is labour intensive and youths are needed to provide manpower as well as to drive technological innovations in the Nigerian agricultural sector. It therefore, pointed out that it was imperative for the government to make the rural areas and agriculture attractive to its

ECONOMY youthful population. “In addition to policies to promote easy access to credit facilities and the supply of farm inputs to rural farmers, the Nigerian government would need to introduce specific policy actions as identified above to address rural-urban migration in the country,� it explained. The federal government has been making efforts to facilitate agricultural development in the country as it seeks to diversify its revenue base away from oil. The agricultural sector used to be the leading contributor to Gross Domestic Product before the first oil boom and still employs a significant proportion of the population. The agricultural sector’s

contribution to real GDP stood at 29.25 per cent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2019. Also, the sector grew by 2.28 per cent in Q3 2019, up from 1.79 per cent in the second quarter 2019. “However, considering Nigeria’s rapid population growth, estimated at 2.6 per cent year-on-year in 2018 and a size of 195.9 million, the Nigerian agricultural sector remains grossly underdeveloped and holds great investment opportunities,� it stated. It noted that in Nigeria, a number of initiatives and development plans had been rolled out by successive governments to address the country’s decline in agricultural productivity. Recent policy actions include a restriction on foreign exchange for food importation and the closure of the Nigeria-Benin border to curb smuggling.

“The need to protect domestic producers and encourage increased agricultural production in Nigeria prompted these policy actions. Importation of agricultural products is one of the identified constraints to agricultural development in Nigeria. “Imported food items compete with domestic agricultural produce and limit farmers’ opportunities in the market. Nigeria’s food import bill increased by 22.2 per cent to N744.72 billion in the first quarter of 2019 from N608.96 billion in the corresponding period in 2018. “The border closure helped to curb smuggling of food commodities into the country, as well as the smuggling of crude oil out of the country. However, it exposed the mismatch between current domestic food supply and Continued on page 24

NDIC Develops Enterprise Risk Management System Obinna Chima The Managing Director of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim, has disclosed that the corporation has embarked on significant reforms which included the development of an Enterprise Risk Management System as well as the implementation of Differential Premium Assessment System (DPAS). He listed other initiatives adopted by the corporation to include capacity building in risk-based supervision (RBS), deployment of a performance management system, enhanced Deb Recovery System and Increased Pay-out to both insured and un-insured depositors. Umaru, said this in a goodwill

RISK message he delivered at the just concluded workshop for journalists in Yola. He pointed out that the support of the media had been instrumental to the successful implementation of the Deposit Insurance System (DIS) in Nigeria. The corporation recently celebrated its 30th anniversary. The NDIC commenced operations in March 1989 following the promulgation of Decree No. 22 of 1988 (now repealed and replaced with NDIC Act No 16 of 2006) with the four broad mandates of Deposit Guarantee, Bank Supervision, Distress Resolution and Liquidation while also operating as a Risk Minimiser. Its primary public policy objectives were to

contribute to financial system stability by making incidences of bank runs less likely, while also protecting depositors by providing an orderly means of resolution and compensation in the event of bank failures. “In the first decade of its existence, the primary focus of the NDIC was the management of cases of distress in the banking system. When it commenced operations in 1989, a number of banks were already in varying degrees of insolvency. The corporation rose to the occasion in its adoption of multiple distress resolution options in line with its mandate and functions to deal with the situation at the time. “These included the provision of some assistance in the form of direct loans, acceptance of accommodation bills; changes in

the management of the affected banks, assisted mergers with other viable institutions, imposition of holding actions, and; in some instances, the outright take-over of the management and control of the banks involved. “Other failure resolution options adopted during that era included bank liquidation. The corporation’s first experience in bank liquidation occurred barely four years after its establishment on the 21st January 1994 when the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) revoked the licences of two merchant banks and the corporation was appointed the provisional liquidator. “Between 1994 and 1999, the licences of 31 banks were similarly revoked and subse-

Smile Communications, Nigeria’s 4G LTE broadband service provider, hasintroducedanothersetofcustomer-centriccampaignsthatwillensure a fruitful and memorable Yuletide celebration for all its customers and consumers.The two campaigns have been carefully created, organically related and united in the objectives of delighting customers on the Smile network. The “Perfect Giftâ€? campaign and the “TRUE UnlimitedPremiumâ€? campaign, which run concurrently, are designed to delight customers at this Yuletide period. The “Perfect Giftâ€? campaign includes two exciting oers.The ďŹ rst is available at the cost of N12,000 and includes 25GB with a New SMiFi device. The 25GB is valid for 30 days. Also included is a 100 per cent bonus on recharge for the ďŹ rst three months. The bonus data will have higher priority of use over paid data and will be valid for 7 days. In addition, customer will enjoy 10 mins local voice calls and unlimited on-net calls and SMSs. The second oer give customers, at the cost of N14,500 for 80GB with a new SMiFi device. To extend the data into the New Year, the 80GB is split into 50GB on activation and 5GB every month following, for 6 months, upon recharge of a minimum of a N3,000 data plan. Both the 50GB and the 5GB monthly bonus data is valid for 30 days.The oer also includes 10 mins local voice calls and unlimited on-net calls and SMS. For a limited period, Smile customers that currently subscribe to the Smile UnlimitedPremium plan will experience TRUEUnlimited internet with “No Limitâ€?. Ag. Managing Director of Smile Communications, Akin Alayoku, assured that the unlimited premium plan would embody all the intrinsic elements that are the hall mark of Smile’s customer-centric value.

Afreximbank Expands Operations

The new branch oďŹƒce being opened by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in Yaounde will serve as the Bank’s gateway to the Central African region, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President for Business Development and Corporate Banking, Amr Kamel, has said. Speaking during a roadshow organised in Yaounde to present the Bank’s products, programmes and facilities to the business community, Kamel said the oďŹƒce would bring the Bank closer to local businesses in the region. “WeareintheďŹ nalstagesofdiscussionswiththeGovernmentauthorities to open the branch oďŹƒce,â€? he told the audience of more that 250 business leaders from all the key sectors of the Cameroonian economy. Kamel, noted that many African countries were taking strategic steps towards de-commoditisingtheirexportsandimplementindustrialisationstrategies, saying they were tired of being heavily commodity-dependent. Many Africans could no longer accept a situation where their development aspirations were deďŹ ned by the vagaries of the international commodity markets, he explained. He commended the role given to Afreximbank in mobilising all parties towards the attainment of the goals of Cameroon’s Vision 2035 and pledged that the Bank was committed to assisting both the government and the private sector. Minister of Trade of Cameroon, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, commended Afreximbank for the decision to hold the roadshow in Yaounde and for selecting Cameroon to host the Central Africa Branch OďŹƒce.

Henkel Assures Partners of Innovation

Henkel, a homecare product maker, has unveiled WAW Colour, a detergent, into the Nigerian market to help customers have an excellent washing experience with their coloured clothes. The unveiling of the new product was done during WAW distributors’ meeting and a review of the performance of the brand in the past one year and plans for next year held in Lagos recently. According to the Chairman, Managing Director, Henkel Nigeria, Mr Rajat Kapur, most of the decisions taken by the ďŹ rm was done after extensive consumer research, the reason for the introduction of the new product. He added that the product would help clothes look sparkling clean and new each time they are washed. While assuring its business partners/distributors on continuing innovation, he said the ďŹ rm wouldn’t rest on its oars in delivering innovative products for customers and ensuring that its partners have great relationship with the company. He added, “Most businesses don’t solve problems fast enough. This is a problem. It is important that we work with speed. If problems are not solved fast enough, it aects the performance of the product in the market.â€?

“We have decided to classify that as BVN classic and BVN premium. But we agreed that there should also be a system where people who are today financially excluded can now be financially included. Here, we are talking about creating another segment called BVN Lite� CBN Governor,

Continued on page 24

Mr. Godwin EmeďŹ ele

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BUSINESSWORLD FG, STATES URGED TO DEVELOP POLICIES TO HALT RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION consumer demand for food items. “Prices of commodities like rice, cooking oil, chicken and turkey have spiked significantly in the last few months because domestic production has not been able to augment food shortages arising from the border closure. “The shortage of food commodities due to the closure therefore highlights an urgent need for increased domestic agricultural production in Nigeria,� it stated. Agriculture in Nigeria is concentrated mainly in the hands of peasant farmers in the rural areas. Rural-urban migration is therefore a fundamental challenge for domestic agricultural production because it creates shortage of labour supply for agriculture. Nigeria’s urban population has grown significantly over the years and was expected to maintain an annual 3.26 per cent growth rate until 2025. NDIC DEVELOPS ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

quently liquidated by the NDIC through the same provision. Instructively, almost all the banks closed during that era were resolved through depositors’ reimbursement (Direct Pay-out) mechanism. The corporation also efficiently managed the operations of the Failed Banks Tribunals established by the federal government in 1994 to handle established cases of malfeasance arising from the liquidation of the closed banks,� he explained. According to him, as of 30th June, 2019, the corporation received a total number of 35 petitions/ complaints from bank customers on various issues such as ATM frauds, unauthorised funds transfers, cheque related issues and much more. Investigations and mediation were carried out where necessary and customers were appropriately reprieved. Furthermore, he disclosed that in August this year, the corporation signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on experience sharing and capacity building with the Korean Deposit Insurance Corporation (KDIC) and the Taiwan Central Deposit Insurance Corporation, to further deepen the implementation of the DIS in Nigeria.

NEWS

NIMASA Alleges Plot to De-market Nigeria as Unsafe for Vessels Eromosele Abiodun The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has alleged plot by entrenched interest to de-market Nigeria as a place that is unsafe for vessels to operate. This, he stated, was despite the fact that Nigeria is the first country in the sub-region to have a stand-alone legislation on piracy and also the first country that has launched an ambitious deep blue project. The Director General of NIMASA, Dr Dakuku Peterside, stated this while speaking at a name-giving ceremony for the first daughter vessel, Team Beleuzi, acquired by Team Offshore Nigeria (TEAM Offshore), which is 100 per cent Nigerian-owned. Team Offshore Nigeria is a leading offshore support service provider in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. According to Dakuku, “There is an attempt to portray our waters as unsafe for vessels to operate, but with the coming of a vessel like this, all of that has been rubbished and has proven that Nigerian waters are safe and not what they want people to believe. “Also there has been a debate about the Cabotage regime, whether it is working or not, I need no further proof; this effort will speak for itself and the Cabotage law. “Another important thing is the debate whether the Nigerian environment is safe to invest in. It is evidential and empirical that Nigeria is the right place to invest, a major market of today

and of the future.� He added, “The vessel is coming at a unique time in the maritime industry. It is coming at a time when the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has declared that Nigeria has the second highest tonnage in Africa after Liberia, which is an open registry. “The import of that is that with the coming of this vessel, it will add to our tonnage and Nigeria will even be higher. “The second significant thing the coming of this vessel is making is that it is also coming at a time when the Abuja

MOU, which is the regional port state control organisation for West and Central Africa, has declared Nigeria number one in port state and flag state control in the entire West and Central African region.� Speaking on the complexity of building a vessel, he said, “There has been a debate in the industry between the complexity of giving birth to a biological child and a great piece of work like a vessel, the type we have here. The debate is that principally the birth of a child involves two persons, a man and a woman, never mind

what science would say. “But that the birth of a great vessel like this involves a lot of persons. Beyond that, is the fact that you start with conceiving the idea of building a vessel, you get naval architect to design what you have in mind, you begin to mobilise financial resources and after that you mobilise material and the diversity of the material you need to build a vessel like this can only be imagined.� As customary in the shipping industry, Partner at ACAS Law - owners of Team Offshore Nigeria, Mrs. Funke Agbor, was

formally named Team Beleuzi’s Godmother. Speaking earlier, the Managing Partner at ACAS Law, Afolabi Caxton-Martins, said, “At TEAM Offshore, our mission has been to focus on maximising our Nigerian content contribution and creating in country value, through investment for growth and local employment. “Team Beleuzi, which is a 100 per cent locally owned vessel, highlights our commitment towards value creation through our continuous and increased investment in the maritime sector in Nigeria.�

PROJECTINSPECTION

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power & Energy, Delta State, Dr. A.F. Onojeta; Executive Vice-Chairman, Proton Energy, Mr. Oti Ikomi, and CMEC China Chief Engineer, Mr. Chu, during an on the site visit and inspection of the Proton Energy 150MW power project, expected to commence construction next year, at Sapele, Delta State‌recently

Foreign Investors Embracing FG’s Incentives, Says Lawmaker James Emejo in Abuja The Chairman, House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Hon. Yusuf Buba Yaku, has said the federal government’s current incentives to attract foreign investors into the industrial sector was already yielding positive results. He said the emergence of Fabcom Structural Limited was a testimony about success in the ongoing efforts by the present administration towards an industrial revolution.

Speaking at the 2nd anniversary celebration of Fabcom products promotion and distribution, Yaku said the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari had strengthened institutions to accelerate industrial development as well as create an enabling environment for industries to operate. The lawmaker further reiterated the commitment of the government to constantly improve the ease of doing business by making necessary policy adjustments to woo more foreign investors into

the economy. He, specifically commended the management of the company for carving a niche in the developments of the construction industry. Yaku added: “Since inception five years ago, fabcom’s dedicated management and staff has demonstrated commitment in transforming Nigeria’s building and construction industry by introducing quality and affordable products in the Nigerian market. “Prior to the establishment of Fabcom by its visionaries, construction materials are dominated by

imports from China and countries in the world not considering the challenges of Nigeria’s economy.� He said, Fabcom however, “took the most radical step by investing in the building and construction sector of Nigeria and at present embarking on rapid expansion of their production capacity. “After several years of operations with the instinct for quality, affordability, fabcom products has become a leading brand in the Nigerian market space�. Nonetheless, Fabcom’s Deputy Managing Director, Jackie Hui said

the group had approved a new stone coated roofing production line which has an output of two million square meters per year in Lagos. He added that a new environmental friendly building materialfiber had also been approved, adding that the production line with an output of five million square meters per year will be completed next year. Hui also reiterated its commitments to work with Nigerian people to deepen friendship and strengthen cooperation.

Police Pensioners Seek Change inTemplate for Benefits’Payment Group Business Editor

Obinna Chima

Capital Market Editor

Goddy Egene

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Senior Correspondent

Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising) Correspondents

Chinedu Eze (Aviation) Eromosele Abiodun (Maritime) James Emejo (Finance) Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Chineme Okafor ((Energy) Reporters

Nume Ekeghe (Money Market) Nosa Alekhuogie (ICT)

Ebere Nwoji The Association of Retired Police Officers of Nigeria has urged the National Pension Commission (PenCom) to reverse the current template it ordered the Police Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) to use in determining their retirement benefit. The police pensioners stated this recently, during a meeting held in Lagos, alleging that they were underpaid in their retirement benefits. The police pensioners had in August this year, lamented that the reversal of the template used to calculate their pension payments by PenCom had

caused some negative issues in the pension system. They had urged federal government to set up a special gratuity scheme to enhance retirement benefits of retired police officers. However, the Chairman of the association, Mr. Oku Nkana, a retired Deputy Superintendent of Police in making the association’s fresh demand, alleged that his members were underpaid after 35 years of service to the nation. “We sincerely bring to your notice that after 35 years of meritorious service to this great country, what we are being paid as gratuities and monthly pensions are nothing to write

home about, compared with risk involved with our work, “he said. He further explained that the association, which is under contributory pension scheme had expected that upon retirement, they would be entitled to bulk gratuities payment and monthly pensions applicable under the Pensions Act section 173 (2) of the 1999 Constitution, which he said isn’t so with them presently. Nkana, added that by virtue of the extant laws, the accrued benefits needed not be withheld, altered or tempered with to the disadvantage of the members. He, however, decried the rating payment based on

percentage ratio, which is not fixed or predictable. According to him, “the present circumstances upon which we are rated and paid on diverse percentage such as 29.62 per cent, 25 per cent, 33.26 per cent, 25.62 per cent and 39 per cent respectively without any coherent, fixed, certain and unpredictable percentage amounts to a gross violation of the constitutional provisions on our pension rights�. He also noted that when remittances were made to their contributory pension fund, it was done according to ranks and not age and asked why payment rating is now based

according to age. Nkana, further stated that the Nigeria Police Force Pension Limited while responding to their plight, made reference to PenCom as the organisation that generated the template used in paying members. “The question that begs for answer is how come that other pension administrators pay with better templates than that used by NPF Pension?� “To our greatest dismay, most Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP’s) who retired at the age of 57 years were rated with 29.62 per cent and paid N2.5 million including 13 months arrears of pension at a monthly pension of N38,884.75,� he added.

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Equities Market Declines Further on Continuing Profit Taking Goddy Egene Trading at the stock market remained bearish last week as the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index (ASI) fell further to close lower at 26,536.21. After four weeks of growth spurred by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) monetary policy, the market had declined by 0.54 per cent the previous week. That depreciation resulted from investors’ moves to book in part of the profits that were recorded in the four-week rally. The negative trend continued last week as more investors sold for cash to meet end-of-year financial commitments among others. Consequently, the NSE ASI depreciated by 1.19 per cent to close at 26,536.21, while market capitalisation shed N218.2 billion to close at 12.808 trillion. Losses were recorded on three of five trading sessions of the week. For instance, the first two trading days were bearish as the benchmark index fell 0.7 per cent and 1.1 per cent in that order. On Wednesday and Thursday, buying interest in MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc and Nigerian Breweries Plc lifted the market by 0.2 per cent and 0.5 per cent respectively. However, the last day of the week witnessed a decline of 0.1 per cent. An analysis of the performance by sectors showed that the NSE Banking Index and NSE Industrial Goods Index shed 1.2 per cent apiece. Similarly, the NSE Consumer Goods Index went down by 0.5 per cent. On the other positive side, the NSE Insurance Index and NSE Oil & Gas Index appreciated by 0.03 per cent each. Commenting on the market performance, analysts at Cordros Capital Limited said given the risk-off sentiment dominating the domestic market, they expect the market to shed points in the coming week, “except we see a policy-driven catalyst. Nevertheless, valuations remain attractive, hence we expect pockets of gains over the final weeks of the year as fund and portfolio managers realign portfolios prior to the start of 2020.� One issue that dominated the capital market space last week was how the government can fund infrastructure through the market. Speaking at the 2019 annual workshop of Capital Market Correspondents Association of Nigeria(CAMCAN) market stakeholders concluded that the market was capable of providing the funding needed to bridge the infrastructure gap. For instance, the acting Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Ms. Mary Uduk said there was no better time than now for the federal and state governments in Nigeria to leverage on the opportunities provided by the capital market for sourcing infrastructure development financing. Uduk, who was represented by the Head of Department, External Relations, SEC, Mr. Sufian Abdulkarim, said the capital market, “provides an enabling environment for private investments in infrastructure projects and the SEC is doing its part to foster this through the implementation of the Capital Market Master Plan (2015-2025). “The plan’s major objective is to transform the Nigerian capital market, making it competitive, while contributing towards the nation’s development through funds mobilisation. “We believe that the establishment of an active infrastructure funds via the capital market as being pursued by capital market stakeholders would be immensely beneficial in closing the infrastructure gaps in the country. “The international capital markets are the largest and deepest pool of financing in the world, and in conjunction with local capital markets, which represent an

development of primary, middle and secondary school facilities in Osun State, we have funded the development of affordable housing on the Mixta Real Estate plc Bond Issues and we have developed a number of roads, bridges, health facilities using the opportunity presented by the capital markets,� he added. Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Oscar Onyema, said the recent study by McKinsey stated that Nigeria needs to attract $31 billion investment annually over 10 years for the country to bridge its infrastructure gap. However, the 2019 capital expenditure was about $5 billion, which is clearly insufficient in meeting the infrastructure deficit. “The investment required is near impossible relative to government resources. Nigeria would require different sources of financing both from traditional and new sources including wider participation of private sector and institutional investors, pension, insurance and leveraging the capital market initiatives. It has therefore become necessary to develop innovative financing solution facilitated by the capital market to bridge,� Onyema, who was represented by the Head, Trading Division, NSE, Mr. Jude Chiemeka said.

essentially untapped source of funds for infrastructure projects, they can make a huge contribution to economic development, if effective transaction structures are developed,� Uduk said. In the opinion of the Head, Debt Capital

Markets, FBNQuest Merchant Bank Limited, Mr. Oluseun Olatidoye, who was the guest speaker at the workshop, the capital market represented a very good platform for raising funding for infrastructure development going by some

landmark transactions in recent years because we “have funded over portions of 26 roads across the six geopolitical zones in the country with the sum of N200billion on the FGN Sukuk I and II.� “We have raised N11.4billion for the

Market turnover Despite the decline recorded by the NSE ASI, the value and volume of trading rose to 1.044 billion shares worth N14.628 billion in 14,974 deals last week, from 952.697 million shares valued at N12.774 billion that were exchanged in 17,279 deals the previous week. However, the Financial Services industry remained the most traded with 556.905 million shares valued at N5.678 billion traded in 8,267 deals. Thus, the sector contributed 53.33 per cent and 38.81 per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. The Healthcare industry followed with 215.030 million shares worth N122.603 million in 412 deals, while the third place was Conglomerates industry with a turnover of 89.601 million shares worth N466.294 million in 874 deals. Trading in the top three equities namely, Union Diagnostics and Clinical Services Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc and Guaranty Trust Bank Plc accounted for 379.095 million shares worth N3.066 billion in 1,704 deals, contributing 36.3 per cent and 20.96 per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. Top price gainers and losers The price movement chart showed that 44 equities depreciated in price, higher than 35 equities of the previous week, while 18 equities appreciated lower than 19 equities in the previous week. Chams Plc led the price losers with 18.9 per cent followed Union Diagnostic & Clinical Services Plc with 15.3 per cent. Glaxosmithkline Consumer Nigeria Plc depreciated by 12.5 per cent just as Cutix Plc shed 11.6 per cent. Daar Communications Plc and Berger Paints Nigeria Plc declined 10 per cent apiece while Arbico Plc shed 9.9 per cent. Other top price losers included: Chellarams Plc (9.7 per cent); Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Plc(9.5 per cent) and Niger Insurance Plc (9.0 per cent). On the positive side, Presco Plc led the price gainers with 14.9 per cent trailed by Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc with 10.3 per cent. AXA Mansard Insurance Plc appreciated by 9.9 per cent, just as A.G Leventis Nigeria Plc chalked up 8.3 per cent. Eterna Plc garnered 7.1 per cent, while Cornerstone Insurance Plc and Ekocorp Plc gained 4.7 per cent and 3.7 per cent respectively. Other top price gainers were:NPF Microfinance Plc (3.6 per cent); UAC of Nigeria Plc (3.4 per cent); and Fidelity Bank Plc (2.9 per cent).

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FG Moves to End N800bn Annual Paper Importation James Emejo in Abuja The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Adeniyi Adebayo, has said the federal government will resuscitate the Nigerian Paper Industry as part of its strategy for economic diversification. He said the paper industry plays a critical role in any economy as demonstrated in all aspects of human endeavours, ranging from education, agriculture, banking, health sectors, among others. Speaking at the inauguration of the Committee for the Resuscitation of the Nigerian Paper Industry, the minister noted that the industry serves as an indicator to growth and development of any economy in the world. He added that a vibrant paper industry remains a key component of assessing the self-sufficiency status of any economy. Adebayo, stressed that the paper industry was particularly critical to the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari as it, “represents one of the litmus tests of our resolve to correct some of the wrong which have been done to the Nigerian economy.� Represented by the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Mariam Katagum, Adebayo said the vision of government in setting three major mills

industry namely the National Paper Manufacturing Company (NPMC); Nigeria Newsprint Manufacturing Company (NNMC) and Nigeria Paper Mill (NPM) in the 70s and 80s was to build up platforms, taking advantage of the rich forest resources available in the country and to enhance local capacity to meet up with the country’s demand for paper and paper products. He said: “It is on record that these Industries were functional and operational until they were privatised.� The minister further noted that available record showed that though the industry contributed in meeting the paper products requirements in the country, recent findings revealed that virtually all the paper and paper products’ needs amounting to over N800 billion annually were imported, adding that this was unsustainable. However, he said Buhari’s next level agenda was committed to reversing the ugly trend in the paper industry, adding that the newly inaugurated committee has a critical role to play by recommending innovative ideas towards the resuscitation of the industry. “I charged you to leave no stone unturned in the course of your assignment as I give you my full support in the discharge of this national assignment without fear or favour,� Adebayo urged the committee.

British Commission to Sponsor Entrepreneurs to UKAfrica Investment Summit Emma Okonji The five female entrepreneurs who emerged winners at the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub pitch, organised by the British High Commission in Nigeria, which held in Lagos recently, will get full sponsorship to attend the Africa-Uk Female Tech Founders 2020 Investment Summit in London, United Kingdom in January next year, courtesy of British High Commission in Nigeria. The summit would expose the female entrepreneurs to technology world of possibilities that would enable them grow their businesses. The pitch, which was open to 10 selected finalists among female entrepreneurs, produced five winners who have developed workable ideas into solutions that would address immediate challenges across different sectors of the economy. The winners included Damilola Emuze, whose solution known as ScholarX, creates equitable access to quality education through proper financing; Ifeoma Uddoh, whose solution known as Shecluded, offers loans to female business owners to scale their businesses; Damilola Olokesusi, whose solution, known as Shutters Mobility, enables professionals and organisations’ staff share rides in corporate buses to and from work place. Other winners included Dr. Funmi Adewara, whose solution

called MobiHealth, provides access to quality healthcare, using technology and Keturah Ovio, whose solution known as Limestart, helps Africa’s unbanked small businesses to digitize sales records. Addressing all female participants after the pitch, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Harriet Thompson, said the pitch was meant to bring together, several personal passions for the support for women, whose empowerment remained vital for Nigeria’s future prosperity and stability; support for technology entrepreneurship, which is also key for future growth and jobs. According to her, “The ICT sector accounted for over 11 per cent of Nigeria’s GDP in 2018, compared with 9 per cent from oil and gas and is the fastest growing part of Nigeria’s economy. “In 2018, Nigeria’s technology companies attracted $300 million, which was over 167 per cent year-on-year in funding, mainly from foreign investors. “The UK is trying to build and expand that ecosystem in different ways. The UK now has its very own Tech Hub here in Nigeria, funded by our Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. “The UK-Nigeria tech hub focuses on three key areas: skills and capability development, digital ecosystem building, and facilitating innovation collaborations between Nigerian and UK tech businesses.

Recapitalisation: Insurance Operators Urged to Tap Opportunities in Capital Market Ebere Nwoji Six months to the expiration of the insurance sector recapitalisation deadline, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has advised operators to take advantage of long-term investment opportunities in the capital market. The call was part of the highlights enumerated at a meeting held in Lagos by members of the reconstituted Insurers’ Committee recently. In a chat with journalists after the meeting, a

member of the committee, Mrs Ebele Nwachukwu, revealed that not less than 10 companies had approached the capital market to seek assistance towards raising funds to beat the recapitalisation hurdle. She assured that the Commission had equally promised to render the necessary assistance within its regulatory powers to support companies, stressing that insurers should take advantage of the capital market long term investment fund to boost their finances. She said the recapitalisation exercise

was intended to strengthen the financial position of the industry. Nwachukwu, also quoted the Acting Commissioner for Insurance, Mr Sunday Thomas, as saying that the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) had always partnered with SEC and other relevant agencies to seek palliative for the insurance industry. Nwachukwu, who is also the Managing Director, NSIA Insurance, also revealed that the insurers’ committee prepared the minds of the operators toward the adoption of International

Financial Reporting Standards 17 (IFRS 14), saying funds should be budgeted for training to make the adoption easier. The committee also disclosed that the insurance industry rebranding had been put on hold due to poor financial response on the part of some members. “The rebranding project has been stopped. We did because of issues regarding poor participation by operators. We have to come back to it. We are back on the drawing board,� the committee noted.

MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, EZ37 Solution Limited, Adaora Ayoade; Head, Human Capital, Letshego Micro Finance Bank, Emmanuel Micheal; Founder, Kendor Consulting, Adaora Ikwuemesi; Country Manager/ CEO, Hofstede Insights Nigeria, Okey Okere; Group Head, Human Capital, Chicason Group of Companies, Nayo Ugoh, and Head, Human Resources, Foods Division, Flour Mills of Nigeria, Omolara Yeru, at the 7th Human Resources Boot Camp conference, organised by Kendor Consulting in Lagos‌recently

Carbon Emission in AirTransport Decreased by 50%, Says IATA Chinedu Eze The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has disclosed that carbon emission per passenger has declined by more than 50 per cent since 1990. The world body explained that much of the improvement occurred because the industry has achieved an annual fuel efficiency improvement of 2.3 per cent over the period since 2009, some 0.8 percentage points ahead of target. This progress was a combination of investments in more

efficient aircraft and operational efficiencies. “Cutting per passenger emissions in half is an amazing achievement of the technical expertise and innovation in the aviation industry. “But we have even bigger ambitions. From 2020 we will cap net emissions. And by 2050 we will cut emissions to half 2005 levels. Accomplishing these targets means continued investment in new technology, sustainable fuels, and operational improvements,� said IATA’s Director General and

CEO, Alexandre de Juniac. IATA said airlines have invested about $1 trillion in new aircraft since 2009, and have also signed forward purchase agreements for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) amounting to approximately $6 billion. In addition, he said the introduction of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) would ensure carbon-neutral growth on international flights from 2020 and raise around $40 billion in climate finance. IATA also observed that efforts

to deliberately suppress air travel through punitive passenger taxes were inefficient and largely ineffective at reducing carbon. “Taxation aimed at stopping people from exercising their freedom to fly will make travel more expensive but do very little to reduce emissions. “It is a politician’s feel-good solution, without taking responsibility for the negative impact it has on the economy or the mobility restrictions it imposes on people with lower incomes,� said de Juniac.

FirstBank Appoints Wanka Non-Executive Director First Bank of Nigeria Limited has announced the appointment of Alhaji Ado Yakubu Wanka as a Non-Executive Director of the bank. The bank disclosed this in a statement obtained at the weekend. Speaking on his appointment, the Chief Executive Officer, First Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, said: “We are delighted to welcome Alhaji Ado Yakubu Wanka, to the FirstBank Board. We are especially excited that he is bringing a combination of complementary skills and rich experience to the table which will no doubt enhance the quality of governance towards meeting our strategic goals.� Wanka attended Government Secondary School, Bauchi (1966 – 1970), Federal School of

Science, Lagos (1971 – 1973), holds a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1973 – 1977) and an MBA from the same institution (1982 –1984). He is also an alumnus of the Harvard Business School and Switzerland’s Institute of Management Development, Lousanne. Alhaji Wanka served in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as a graduate assistant with the Department of Chemical Engineering, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife. Thereafter, he started his managerial career as a young process engineer with Ashaka Cement Company Plc where he rose to the position of Deputy Production Manager After completion of his MBA degree, he acquired further managerial competence during

his stay with the Northern Nigeria Development Company (NNDC), Kaduna. During the period, he participated actively in new business development and monitoring of NNDC’s quoted and unquoted investments and left as Principal Investment Executive. Wanka, began his banking career in April 1988 with the then Nigerian International Bank (Citibank Nigeria) where he served for six months as Deputy Manager. He was with the FSB International Bank Plc from 1991 to 1997 and rose to become Executive Director. He assumed duty as the MD/ CEO of the then Gamji Bank Limited in 1997, moved to First Bank of Nigeria Plc in 1998 as Executive Director, where he spent about eight years.

In between his banking career, Wanka spent three years in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) - September 1988 to April 1991 - where he was Acting Head, New business Development Unit and later Head, Strategic Planning Unit of the Corporation. With experience in Corporate and Investment Banking, he served in various capacities in other organisations, most notably as Executive Director, Finance and Administration and also, Chairman of the Board of the Nigeria and Sao Tome Joint Development Authority (an agency which oversees the commercial exploration of mineral resources in the Joint Development Zone covering the overlapping maritime boundary between Nigeria and Sao tome & Principe).

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‘Standardised Curriculum Vital in Solving Employability Challenges’ Ugo Aliogo The Managing Director, U-Connect and Gr8jobsng, Omomene Odike, has said the establishment of a standardised education curriculum will be a catalyst to Nigeria’s employability shortfall. Odike, disclosed this recently in Lagos, at the second edition of project employ career fair organised by Gr8jobsng tagged: “Project Employ 2.0: Repositioning Our Youth for a Digital Tomorrow.� “In Western societies, you find out that everything concerning education whether it is at the secondary school or tertiary levels are standardised. The standardisation is very vital and we don’t

have that here; therefore, there is a need for the government to take a conscious effort to get all stakeholders involved, and until we improve governance framework, we are not going to make much progress,� she said. She also noted that Nigerian universities were working in silos at the moment, hence the need for a unified and codified process of transferring employability skills across the country, “employability courses need to be entrenched into secondary school curriculum.� Odike, said there was no consistent pattern in government’s employability initiatives, adding that most of the employability issues in societies are more political than geared towards solving a

problem. Therefore, he said there was need for the impact of employability initiative to be measurable. According to her, “The 2019 career fair focuses more on repositioning the youth for the digital space. We have noticed that there has been a shift from having people who have the certification and qualifications, to people who have the skills. “The feedback from the last career fair, indicated that lot of the youths do not understand the idea of the digital space and the future of work on the global stage, as a result there is a need to continually engage the youth on platforms that can prepare their mind ahead, with lots of

training and discussion on the future of work.� In his remarks, the chairman of Ubong King Foundation, Ubong King, said, problem identification was the beginning of opportunities, noting that anywhere there is a problem, there is an opportunity. “We have over 62.5 million youths that cannot be employed because they don’t have skills, and why they don’t why skills is that they are not trained for skills.� King opined that the way forward is to reposition the educational sector to develop skills acquisition, while calling on government to get right people involved in the system,

UBA Staff Give Back in CSR Initiative UBA Foundation, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc at the weekend held the 2019 edition of its annual ‘Each One, Teach One initiative, in Nigeria and across all its subsidiaries in Africa. The initiative is part of UBA Foundation’s activities where the bank’s staff members give their time and skills to the communities around them. All across the continent, staff of the pan- African bank were seen within their communities, teaching and assisting the less privileged, especially students and people living with disabilities. The Executive Director, Lagos

and West Bank, Marketing, Mr. Ayoku Liadi, who represented UBA’s Group Managing Director, and the Chairman of UBA Foundation, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka, at the event in Lagos, expressed his excitement over the initiative, adding that as a corporate entity, UBA, through its Foundation has decided to give back as a family, starting by impacting knowledge and skills to students and participants. A statement quoted Liadi to have said: “Our goal with this initiative which is in its second year, is to help the under privileged and young children learn vocational skills that will assist them along the path to financial freedom

as they start businesses of their own. We have therefore, created a platform to encourage people who have various skills and talents to pass this on to the younger generation.� Liadi also seized the opportunity to give the participants a short lecture about financial literacy, noting that it is important for students to embrace the culture of being financially cautious from a tender age. He said, “At UBA, we want students to inculcate the habit of savings, especially for the rainy day. It is important that you are cautious about the future, because nothing is guaranteed. Therefore ensure that you bear this in mind when you receive your

pocket money and allowance no matter how little; because when you save today, it will go a long way to help you tomorrow, “Liadi told the students who filled the Onikan Youth Centre.� Students from Modupe Cole Memorial Childcare and Treatment Home; Standard Hallmark College, Mushin; Child Life-Line,Lagos and Moyin Rainbow Foundation, Lagos; were some of the students who participated at the event. The Chief Executive Officer, UBA Foundation, Mrs. Bola Atta, who threw more light on the initiative stated that it was aimed at helping to impact lives positively and in a very meaningful way.

and institutions of learning should assist in discovering the

potential of individuals and how to groom it.

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Finance Bill as Lifeline for Nigeria’s Economic Renaissance The Finance Bill if passed into law will enhance Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria, strengthen micro, small and medium scale enterprises, as well as address the revenue challenge facing the country, writes Obinna Chima

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oday, the major headache facing the federal government is the country’s low revenue generation proďŹ le. And with the volatile nature of crude oil prices and the rising debt obligation, there is every need for policymakers in the country to be worried about the low revenue level. A comparison of the country’s ability to convert its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to revenue for capital and social investment- key drivers of sustainable economic growth –with that of its peers, clearly shows that Nigeria has to do a lot to catch up. To achieve that, the federal government has to urgently mobilise significant resources to invest in human capital development and critical infrastructure. This has seen the government introduce various measures to pursue optimal revenue generation. For instance, the federal government had launched its Strategic Revenue Growth Initiatives (SRGI), which aims to boost revenue generation. In addition, President Muhammadu Buhari, on October 8, 2019, presented The Finance Bill, 2019 (the Bill), alongside the 2020 Appropriation Bill, to a joint session of the National Assembly. The Bill has since been passed by both arms of the National Assembly. The bill aims to raise government revenue, reform the tax laws to align with best practices, create incentives for investment, support micro, small and medium scale enterprises (MSMEs), as well as raise government revenue. It is expected to shore up Nigeria’s low tax to GDP ratio, which presently at about 16 per cent, is one of the lowest in the world. While the focus since the president presented the bill to the lawmakers has been on the proposed hike in Value Added Tax (VAT), which some interest groups in the country have continued to kick against, considering the present weak purchasing power, analysts have stressed that the proposed legislation if passed into law and effectively implement could help in addressing some of the fiscal challenges facing the country. Submission of a Finance Bill legislation with the budget/Appropriation Bill is not new in Nigeria as past military regimes had, during budget pronouncements, amended various tax laws. Proposed Changes and Implications The sweeping changes to the tax laws, covering seven different tax laws, under the proposed Bill are expected to have positive impacts on investments and ease of paying taxes especially for MSMEs. It is envisaged that changes to the tax laws would be on an annual basis to ensure that Nigeria’s tax system continues to evolve in line with changes in business and economic conditions. Companies Income Tax (CIT) Currently, companies are charged tax at 30 per cent on their dividend distributions where such dividends exceed the taxable profits for the year notwithstanding that profits being distributed may have been taxed in prior years, exempt from tax, or taxed under a different tax law. This, according to a report by PwC Nigeria, titled: ‘Nigeria’s Finance Bill Insights Series,’ particularly affects holding companies on dividends received from their subsidiaries thereby making Nigeria unattractive as a headquarters or group holding company location. But, The Finance Bill proposes changes to limit

Buhari the application of the tax only to untaxed profits that are not exempt from tax. Also, currently, companies that declare and pay interim dividends are required to remit income tax at 30 per cent on such dividends to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). But under the proposed legislation, there is a proposal to repeal the provision (which also specifies that withholding tax (WHT) should not be applied on dividends that are not paid in money) in the Finance Bill. While the repeal will address the intended exemption of advance tax on interim dividend, it may also imply that WHT should be applied on bonus shares or dividend-in-specie, the PwC report stated. In addition, Bill seeks to amend the contentious commencement and cessation rules in Companies Income Tax Act (CITA). The effect of these rules is that companies suffer tax twice on profits of at least 12 months, when they commence business. “Conversely, on cessation of business, a period of up to 12-month escapes tax. The removal of these rules is considered a welcome development. “CITA empowers the FIRS to grant certain exemptions on group re-organisations, where certain criteria are fulfilled,� it stated. In terms of the Personal Income Tax Act, the Bill seeks to remove the tax exemption on withdrawals from pension schemes except the prescribed conditions are met; banks will be required to request for Tax Identification Number (TIN) before opening bank accounts for individuals, while existing account holders must provide their Taxpayers Identification Number (TIN) to continue operating their accounts; e-mails are to be accepted by the tax authorities as a formal channel of correspondence with taxpayers, and penalty for failure to deduct tax will also apply to agents appointed for tax deduction. This penalty is 10 per cent of the tax not deducted, plus interest at the prevailing monetary policy rate of the Central Bank of Nigeria. However, under the proposed legislation, the duties currently performed by the Joint Tax Board (JTB) as it relates to administering the Personal

The bill aims to raise government revenue, reform the tax laws to align with best practices, create incentives for investment, support micro, small and medium scale enterprises as well as raise government revenue

Muhammed Nami Income Tax Act, would now be performed by the FIRS. In terms of VAT, the Bill seek to introduce VAT exemption on Group re-organisations, provided that, the sale is to a Nigerian company; the entities involved are part of a recognised group of companies 365 days before the transaction, among others. Similar to the VAT amendment, the Bill is also introducing capital gain tax (CGT) exemption on Group re-organisations, provided that, among other things, the assets are sold to a Nigerian company and is for the better organisation of the trade or business. The current practice is that companies send an approval request letter under CITA Section 29(9) to the FIRS, and include a CGT exemption request.

a time apportionment basis of the risks accepted during the financial year. This seeks to ensure that the tax deduction obtained is in line with the requirements of section 20(1)(a) of the National Insurance Act. Similarly, for the insurance sector, the Bill introduced an additional allowance of 10 per cent of estimated outstanding claims for claims incurred but not reported at year end. It states that any portion of the allowance not utilised against claims and outgoings would be added to the total profits of the following year. “The elimination of the restriction of claims and outgoings is positive for the industry as valid business expenses of insurance companies would no longer be disallowed from a tax perspective,� the PwC Nigeria report added.

Implications for Banking, Capital Market, Insurance The proposed 2019 Finance Bill seeks to bring about several changes which will affect the banking, capital market and insurance sectors. Significant among these, according to the report are provisions to clarify the tax treatment of securities lending transactions in the capital market. Similarly, it seeks to provide clarity on the tax consequences of Regulated Securities Lending Transactions (RSLT). Generally, an RSLT may involve the exchange of shares between a lender and borrower for short-selling. Furthermore, the Bill introduces a specific benchmark of 30 per cent of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) as the limit for interest deduction on loans by a foreign ‘connected person’. The proposed benchmark is consistent with the recommendation of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) through its Article 4 on base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS) project, the PwC report stated. The Bill also legalises the charge of N50 on electronic receipts or electronic transfers made to any bank account on transactions of N10,000 and above with exemptions granted for bank transfers between own accounts. Under the current CITA, a range of partial to total exemption from WHT is granted to interest on foreign loans, depending on specified criteria. It specified full exemption to foreign loans where the loan term is above seven years including a moratorium of two years. The CBN recently issued a directive for banks to charge a stamp duty of N50 on point of sale (PoS) transactions of N1,000 and above. This directive has been viewed by many as retrogressive and contrary to the government’s plan to reduce the proportion of financially excluded adults to 20 per cent by the year 2020. But, the proposed Bill, however, provides some succour by raising the minimum threshold of N1,000 to N10,000. For the insurance sector, among others, it recommended that the claim for reserve for unexpired risks in a financial year, should be calculated on

Energy Sector For of the energy and utilities sectors, among a range of other expected reforms, it proposes to delete the need for ministerial approval for tax deductible interest. Section 41 of the CITA grants an incentive to companies that replaced obsolete plant and machinery, whereby a company that incurs an expenditure for the replacement of obsolete plant and machinery, are granted fifteen per cent investment tax credit. The Bill proposes to repeal this Section and eliminate the incentive going forward. Section 60 of the Petroleum Profit Tax Act (PPTA) exempts dividends paid out of petroleum profits from further tax in recognition of the relatively higher corporate income tax rate on petroleum operations. This meant that withholding tax was not charged on dividends from upstream operations. This is also supported by Section 43 of CITA. The Finance Bill seeks to repeal Section 60 of the PPTA and Section 43 of CITA. This means that dividends from upstream companies will henceforth be subject to withholding tax. The current rate is 10 per cent (or 7.5% if payable to recipients of a treaty country). The Finance Bill proposes to eliminate the requirement that tax deductions would be taken for interest payable on any loan for a gas project as long as the loan has been approved by the Minister. According to the report, this proposal means that the general rules on tax deductibility of interest on loans would be applicable to gas companies and if they obtain related party loans, they would be subject to Transfer Pricing rules as well as the new thin capitalisation rules. The amendments affecting the industry are focused on increasing revenue for government through introduction of WHT on upstream dividends, the deletion of investment tax credit on replacement of obsolete plant and machinery, deemed utilisation of capital allowances for gas companies in pioneer and the elimination of 15 per cent investment allowance. These changes are Continued on page 29

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FINANCE BILL AS LIFELINE FOR NIGERIA’S ECONOMIC RENAISSANCE

For instance, the tax rate, for the ďŹ rst time, the government has taken the small businesses out of the tax bracket. If your revenue is less than N25 million, you don’t expect to pay taxes today. That is a welcome development, in terms of having to pay 30 per cent, which is the tax rate for corporates

all focused on increasing government revenue. “If the Finance Bill is passed into law, the energy and utilities sector (in particular, oil and gas) would witness an increase in their tax costs including royalties. “Contrary to the outlook of the 2020 budget proposal that envisages that the non-oil sector would contribute more to revenue generation, we expect that the oil and gas industry may in fact contribute more than it did in 2019, based on the current proposals,� it stated further. Consumers, Industrial Products’ Sectors The Bill aims to amend the Custom, Excise Tariff etc. (Consolidation) Act (CETA), to subject importation of excisable products to excise duties at the same rates applicable to locally manufactured items. This aims to create a level playing field for local manufacturers and raise revenue for the government. Replacement of obsolete plant and machinery Section 41 of the Companies Income Tax Act (CITA) grants a 15% tax credit to a company that incurs capital expenditure to replace “obsolete� plant and machinery. This is in addition to the capital and investment allowances ordinarily available on such capital expenditure. The Bill deleted this provision in order to rationalise incentives and due to the ambiguity on what constitutes an “obsolete� plant or machinery, making the incentive redundant in practice. Implications for MSMEs The Finance Bill seeks to introduce across-theboard changes to the various tax laws in Nigeria that would impact on MSMEs and their role in sustainable economic growth. The bill provides certain incentives for businesses. Companies are generally expected to account for VAT based on invoices issued (i.e. accrual). This requires companies to render returns in the month following taxable supply or purchase. Failure to register for VAT attracts a penalty of N10,000 and N5,000 for each subsequent month where failure continues. Exported services and basic food items are exempted from VAT. The VAT Act defines exported service as service performed by a Nigerian resident or a Nigerian company to a person outside Nigeria which is ambiguous. It is also to prescribe that small businesses with turnover less than N25 million would be exempted from CIT while a lower CIT rate of 20 per cent would apply to medium-sized companies with turnover between N25 million and N100 million. Small businesses may have to prove to their customers that they do not meet the threshold to avoid withholding tax. As stated previously, it seeks to raise VAT rate from five per cent to 7.5 per cent, while penalties for failure to register will increase to N25,000 for the first month of default and N20,000 for each subsequent month. Implication for Digital Economy The new Finance Bill introduces two additional categories of fixed base (FB) to capture e-commerce and technical/management/consultancy services provided remotely by non-resident companies (NRCs) to Nigerian consumers, to the extent that the providers have significant economic presence in Nigeria. It also gives the Minister of Finance broad powers to determine, by order, the triggers and/or thresholds for significant economic presence in Nigeria. A bit more engagement would be required to avoid double taxation in the area of corporate income tax. The FIRS may need to provide some clarification on what mode of returns would be required for the permanent establishments. “The FIRS may also need to invest in capacity

Senate President, Ahmed Lawan to understand the businesses of taxpayers in this sector in order to determine what services are being provided to Nigerian residents and how to fairly determine the attributable profits,� the report stated. Experts’ Opinion Speaking in an interview on the ‘Morning Show,’ on Arise Television yesterday, a Partner and the Head of Family Wealth at Andersen Tax LP, Mr. Emeka Onwuka, welcomed the proposed legislation, saying it did not come as a surprise to most tax advisers in the country. He said the Finance Bill showed the dynamism the federal government was attaching to the tax regime in the country, adding that it would help improve tax compliance. “I will say this didn’t come as a surprise to some of us that are tax advisers. This is because some of the issues covered by the new Finance Bill, have been contentious over the years, but this Bill provides clarification. “And of course, the big one being the VAT that has been raised to 7.5 per cent. But I will say it is a win-win for the tax payers and the government. For the taxpayers, there are clarifications that have been provided by the Finance Act. “It seeks to improve compliance and the ease at which businesses are being done. Some of changes as well would increase the sources of funding for the budget,� Onwuka added. Furthermore, he said the proposed legislation, when passed into law, would help clarify some of the areas that most taxpayers usually have issues with revenue agency. “For instance, the tax rate, for the first time, the government has taken the small businesses out of the tax bracket. If your revenue is less than N25 million, you don’t expect to pay taxes today. That is a welcome development, in terms of having to pay 30 per cent, which is the tax rate for corporates. “Also, if your revenue is between N25 million and N100 million, you only pay 20 per cent instead of 30 per cent. So, that would encourage compliance and encourage people to come forward and file compliance. “On the issue about compliance, it is a general issue with developing countries. Which is why indirect taxes, such as VAT, have been more effective, in terms of sourcing for government funding. “But, over time, we believe that as government become more transparent in terms of utilisation of these sources, the taxpayers would be more comfortable to meet their payment. “But, we have to bear in mind that even though taxation is a social contract between the taxpayers and government, whereby when you make the payment, you expect the government to also provide, public goods and services, however, taxation is often described as a compulsory and unrequited payment to government. “Unrequited in the sense that the service you get from government is not usually commensurate with the payment you make, because government

Zainab Ahmed gets the money and takes care of the general public. “However, we expect that government will be transparent and be responsive to the needs of the people to drive compliance,� the former bank chief executive officer said. For MSMEs, he said it would be a win-win for the business operators and the government. According to him, the biggest beneficiaries would be the insurance sector. “Over the years, the way the tax law applies to the insurance companies, are meant that they have a minimum tax level of at least 30 per cent of their gross premium as taxable income, but that has been taken off by this regulation. “So, there is no limit in terms of how much the tax law would assume their profit to be. Over the years, there have also been limit as to the amount of expenses they can charge to their profit and loss. “Now, these two provisions have always made investment in insurance sector unattractive and so you don’t have a lot of money flowing into the insurance sector. So, this regulation coming at this time that the industry is recapitalising is encouraging in terms of attracting investors. “What it means is that the tax liabilities of insurance companies are going to go down to a large extent. The VAT, there is full clarification today as to what VAT is applicable to and what it is not applicable to. So, the VAT now is applicable to certain kind of goods,� he explained. For the capital market, Onwuka, pointed out that it would eliminates double transactions and also enhance real estate investment. “For banking transactions, it has also left out small customers in terms of stamp duties. Those kind of regulation improves the ease with which customers do business with the bank and ultimately would be beneficial to the banks,� he added. In his contribution, the Partner and Head, Deal Advisory and Tax Services, KPMG Nigeria, Mr. Ajibola Olomola, who featured on the ‘Global Business Report,’ on Arise Television, yesterday, stressed that the Finance Bill would be epochal if passed into law. According to Olomola, it would help align the micro-economy with the macroeconomic direction of the federal government. “In terms of the directionality of the bill, what is does is to my mind, to begin to show signals of the direction towards which Nigeria would go in seeking to raise revenues with which it intends to finance the budget. “And the very first significant thing that this Bill does is to lessen and almost mitigate the tax burden on a very vital sector of the Nigerian economy, the MSMEs and try to mitigate the challenges they currently face in complying with the tax legislation, reduce the tax burden on that very important sector of the economy and by so doing, attract many of them for the first time into the tax net. “So what this bill does in a nutshell is to begin to reposition the fiscal environment in Nigeria towards attracting investment, encourage Nigerians to invest in Nigeria, grow capital and also grow the labour market, grow our economy and in a sense

begin to change the narrative of the economy,� he explained. He added: “The most important change that most Nigerians have picked up is the increase in the VAT rate from five per cent to 7.5 per cent, which has been approved by both the Senate and the House of Representatives, after public hearings. That is the most material change that most people have picked up. However, this is in recognition of the fact that very large section of the economy are vulnerable and sensitive to tax rate change. “What the Finance Bill has done is an attempt by the government to moderate the effect of the rate increase, shift it to the higher producing elements of the economy and exempt SMEs who are businesses with a turnover of N25 million and below, from paying VAT. Responding to a question on how the proposed legislation seeks to address the issue of compliance, he said, by lowering the burden on companies, they would be encouraged to comply with their tax obligations. “The Bill is proposing a change to the CITA, such that if that same business were registered as a company, they would face zero taxation up to revenues of N25 million and below. And above N25 million, up to N100 million, there is a reduction in tax rate below 30 per cent. “That, then, is the clear motivation for businesses that are currently not registered as companies to come into the formal net, register under the CAMA with the CAC in order to seek protection that the Finance Bill provides. “That means that more companies would come into the tax net, and once they are in the tax net the ability of the tax authority to monitor compliance then becomes a little bit more enhanced,� he added. Shedding light on the aspect of the proposed legislation that requires TIN for operating a bank account, he said: “Already, the bank opening forms requires businesses that seek to open account in Nigeria, to provide information as to their corporate status, the identity of their directors, the bank account numbers, BVN, number of their directors, and the TIN. “What the Bill has done is merely to formalise what is already included by banks under the auspices of the central bank’s Know –Your-Customer directive, to make it formal and codified in the tax law, that banks should not open accounts for businesses that do not have TIN. “It is hoped that by closing this loophole, it must be better possible for regulatory authorities to match the operationalisation of bank accounts with contributions to the economy by way of tax redistribution.� From the foregoing, considering the fiscal challenges facing the country, there is need for stakeholders to embrace the proposed legislation as it has the capability stimulate economic growth in the country, enhance the operations of MSMEs, attract the much-needed foreign direct investment and address the severe revenue challenge facing the country, if passed into law and effectively implemented by the government.

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FG Restates Commitment to Reviving Ajaokuta Steel Company Hammed Shittu in Ilorin The federal government at the weekend said it had signed a memorandum of understating (MoU) with the Russian government towards reviving the multi- billion naira Ajaokuta Steel Company. The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Dr Abdulkadir Muazu, disclosed this in Ilorin, Kwara State, during a workshop

on, ‘Stimulation and Promotion of Activities of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the metal sector, organised by the ministry. He said, “for the past two three months now, you will see the trend going on in the steel sector, the president and his entourage went to Russia two months ago for negotiation on how to bring Ajaokuta up for full optimum use. “The underground work is still ongoing, hopefully by January

everything will be finalised by government of Russia and federal government of Nigeria on how to bring Ajaokuta steel company to streamline.� Represented at the event by the Director, Steel and NonFerrous Metals, Engr. Olasupo Kolawole said, “If you look at Ajaokuta, it is an integrated plant comprise about 43 industries in one particular place. If Ajaokuta should come up, I believe the steel market in the whole of West

African, Ajaokuta will take over. “If Ajaokuta Steel company should come up, it will take care of all West African countries supply than all type of steels product even in the locally steel which will save us the foreign exchange that we use in importing steel product.� On the desire of the government to boost local steel manufacturers in the country, Muazu said, “it is part of what we are doing now. The small

and medium enterprises in that sector are very important. We are talking of Ajaokuta, Ajaokuta is the upstream while the local manufacturers are in the downstream and with the public contact with these lower downstream, we are trying to sensitise and promote them and improve their productivity in terms of operation and how to source for fund to carry out their operation.� Furthermore, Muazu said:

“The Ministry of Mines and Steel Development which is the organ of government responsible for ensuring the growth and sustainability of the metals sector in Nigeria has recognised SMEs as the engine of growth for the development of the metals industry in Nigeria. “The SMEs contributes significantly to wealth creation, employment generation and increase in the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).�

Akinwuntan:There is Need to Drive Gender Inclusion in MFB Sub-sector Ugo Aliogo The Chairman, Board of Director, Accion Microfinance Bank, Mr. Patrick Akinwuntan, has stressed the need to drive increased gender inclusion in the microfinance banking (MFB) sub-sector. Akinwuntan, disclosed this recently in Lagos, during the third annual financial inclusion forum with the theme: “Re-emerging Microfinance Banks: The Digital Reality,� organised by Accion Microfinance Bank. “There is need to promote the female gender. Women have proven to be the best customers in the microfinance space. We must keep emphasising that women as custodians of the home, it is important to empower them financially,� he said. He said as part of efforts to deepen financial inclusion by 80 per cent in 2020, there was need to follow the regulatory measures, which he noted was positive and has allowed people open accounts from their mobile phones. Akinwuntan, further explained that the second pillar is digital which he identified as being critical in offering services at low cost, in a sustainable manner, adding that there was need to see more collaborations in that space especially among the telecommunication companies, payment switches, the insurance companies, credit bureau, national identification bureau, and others. Earlier in his remarks, the

Managing Director, Accion Microfinance Bank, Taiwo Joda, said the seminar has had a meaningful impact in the microfinance industry. He noted that two years down the line, because of the efforts of the bank, and other people in the ecosystem, Accion has contributed to driving 60 per cent financial inclusion rate. According to Joda, “In 2018, we looked at how regulation can help with digital uptake, we looked at the role the Bureau and others can play, the roles account tier holding and KYC. “After the financial inclusion seminar, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) came up with modification to the tier accounts, so we have tier one, and two accounts and a bit of modification around it, so that a lot customers and prospects out there carry out financial transactions through informal means not through the formal banking. “So it becomes easier for people to open accounts and do transactions. That also drove us to improve on our technology platform looking at how our customers can transact instantly especially financial transactions. “We invented our USSD code, re-launched our *572#, brought our mobile onboard and we also strengthened the NIP structure so that the payment system works on. It also drove us to look at our agent solution and see how we can improve on it.�

EKEDC Acquires Mobile Transformers to Improve Services Nume Ekeghe The Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has taken delivery of its newly purchased 15MVA 33/11KV Mobile Power Transformers as part of efforts to improve power supply within its network. This was made known in a statement signed by its General Manager, Corporate Communication Mr. Godwin Idemudia. He said the purchase of the two mobile transformers would promote uninterrupted power supply in its coverage areas. He said: “These mobile transformers will immediately replace failed power transformers pending repairs or replacement. Mobile transformers are transformers that can be easily moved from place to place. “They’re often used in emergency situations or as temporary solutions for the supply of electrical power to areas experiencing power shortage due to failure of

the existing Power Transformer.� He explained the initiative has benefits which includes, “speedy restoration of power supply, maintenance of uninterrupted power, reduction of load shedding, sustenance of revenue collection, reduction in Aggregate Technical Commercial and Collection (ATC&C) losses and provide adequate time for repair operations. It’s a great way to wrap 2019 and start a productive 2020.� The initiative was in response to the plight of customers who experienced darkness pending the restoration of their power transformers. Idemudia, also disclosed that the injection sub-stations in Victoria Island and Agbara both, recently, suffered acute power loss due to failure of some of the power transformers, saying that such situations often result in massive loss of potential revenue for the customer and the company.

REWARDING CUSTOMER LOYALTY

L-R: Zonal Head, Apapa/Alaba, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Endwell Brown; Group Head, Consumer Liability & Segments, Mr. Shamsideen Fashola; star prize winner, Obiajulu Ujunwa, and Zonal Head, Lagos Island, FCMB, Mr. Emmanuel Comla, during the cheque presentation to the winner at the grand finale draw of the ‘FCMB Millionaire Promo Season 6,’held in Lagos‌recently

ANEEJ Monitoring Disbursement of Abacha Loot to FCT Beneficiaries James Emejo in Abuja As part of efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in the administration of the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) to the poor and vulnerable in the country, the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) in partnership with Department for International Development (DFID) has monitored the disbursement of part of the $322.5 million -Abacha loot, recovered by the federal government. The Executive Director ANEEJ, David Ugolor said the aim of

exercise was to bring transparency and accountability to the utilisation of all recovered assets in the country. According to him, the disbursement to beneficiaries in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), coincided with the World Anti-corruption Day celebration and seeks to send a strong message against abuse of trust in the fund’s administration. He said: “As you know, the cash transfer programme is partly financed by money recovered by Abacha starched in western bank. We also see today as an opportunity to highlight the benefit to see assets returns back to Nigeria. “As

you can see around, you see the very poor of the poorest as they are the ones benefiting from the recovered loot from Abacha and for us it is remarkable.� He said the CCT presented an opportunity to send a strong signal that embezzlement is no longer business as usual. According to him: “If people steal public money, you can recover it and return it to the poor and for me the cash transfer presents that benefit of fighting corruption and that is why we have to come all the way from Abuja down to Kuje to solidarise with the very poor of the poorest.�

Also, Head of Operations, National Cash Transfer Office (NCTO), Binta Isah Ismail, said the modality of the programme had been transparent as the programme does not just start from the beneficiaries but from the national register where beneficiaries were targeted. She also said aside from cash given to the beneficiaries, there are other packages such as trainings to improve the health, nutrition and environmental outcome for the vulnerable. She said the payment cycle was being made once in two months, a total of N10,000 (N5,000 each month.)

SAHCO Renews Handing Deal with Arik Air Chinedu Eze Skyway Aviation Handling Company Public Liability Company (SAHCO) has renewed its ground-handling contract with Arik Air. During the signing of the new agreement at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, the Managing Director/CEO, SAHCO, Mr. Basil Agboarumi, promised to deliver quality and improved ground handling services to all its clientele across the nation’s airports, especially as it acquires more state-of-the-art equipment for operations. Basil disclosed that some new ground handling equipment of the company would in the next few weeks arrive the country, saying that this would further improve the quality of its service

to its clients, including Arik Air. According to him, since the company was acquired by Sifax Group of Companies about nine years ago, the board had strived to improve the quality of services to its clients, stressing it would continue to grow its services especially as the company is enlisted on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). On the renewed agreement with Arik Air, Agboarumi emphasised that it portends endorsement and credibility on the services of the ground handling company. The agreement was renewed for another three years. He said, “Today is unique for SAHCO. The Initial Public Offering (IPO) for SAHCO begins today (Monday) and we are signing this contract with Arik Air. Arik Air has been with SAHCO for several years and

we have witnessed the growth of the company over the years. “We are happy that the new management has established the airline on the right path. Arik Air is a good company to do business with. We are very proud to associate with the airline. Wherever Arik Air is mentioned, we will stand up for you. We have new equipment coming in. Some of them are on the high seas, while others are with us here already in the country. “We have warehouses in Port Harcourt, Kano, Lagos and Abuja and we are ready to build warehouses wherever they are needed. You have to understand that we are business people. If there is need for business expansion to any airport in the country, we will not hesitate to do that. Not just in Enugu, but across Nigeria. As long as

business is expanding to those sides, you will see SAHCO there. “You will understand that we are the only ground handling company that operates in all commercially operated airports in Nigeria. So, when it comes to warehouses and we are sure that it will be utilised to the fullest capacity, we will be there.� In a statement, the Vice President, Ground Operations, Arik Air, Murat Ozcan, expressed hapiness with the renewed agreement with the ground handling company. Ozcan also said that the airline had for the past five years developed a mutual relationship with SAHCO. He explained that the renewed agreement would run for three years, adding that the management would be willing to constantly renew its contracts with the ground handling company.

MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019 • T H I S D AY

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Eko Carbon Exchange Gains Global Acceptance The Eko Carbon Exchange said it has launched its presence on the global stage at a recent event that held on the sidelines of the United Nations Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP25) in Madrid, Spain. The event, according to a statement, attracted African and international experts and sustainability actors including members of Nigerian delegation to the conference, labour unions, environment activists, officials of the Federal Ministry of Transport as well as African and international civil society groups. The Federal Ministry of Environment was represented by the Head of Climate Change Mitigation, Hajia Aisha Jibril. In his welcome address by the Managing Director of Eko Carbon Exchange, Mr. Innocent Azih, noted that it was the first of such platform in West Africa. He explained further how the Exchange was mobilising to harness the opportunities in low-Carbon development across all economic sectors in the states of Nigeria, starting with the solid waste and transport sectors. He said it would also serve as regional vehicle for mobilising finance for low-Carbon economic development for West African economies through the Clean Development Mechanism. “The objective is to mobilise the necessary resource pool and low-Carbon finance required for greening all economic sectors.� In his speech, Hajia Aisha Jibril, Head of Climate Change Mitigation of the Federal Ministry of Environment, who represented the Director of Climate Change, Dr. Peter Tarfa, noted the readiness of the Federal Ministry of Environment to work with

the Exchange to enable Nigeria achieve the nationally Determined Contributions through projects implementation that are fully mainstreamed. She highlighted efforts made by the ministry from policy incentives, education and awareness of actors through Climate Change Desks at state levels, to development of the Nigerian Carbon emission registry. She asked stakeholders, including Eko Carbon Exchange to partner the ministry to ensure early realisation of the registry. In a technical session, the Managing Director of Base Agency for Sustainable Energy, Mr. Daniel Magallon, said Africa was both the victim and beneficiary of new global efforts at containing emissions growth. He noted that the Eko Carbon Exchange is a veritable platform for partnership with their company in scaling their green projects in Africa. Also, the Chief Executive Officer of Natural Eco Capital, Dr.Eugene Itua, in his submission noted that tremendous emission reduction programmes had been on in Lagos State through the replacement of outdated mass transport vehicles with more modern and energy-efficient buses. Another panelist and Chief Executive Officer, A4&T Power Solutions, Mr. Ayodeji Ademilua posited that the Exchange will find huge opportunities in enabling financial incentives for greening the energy sector. The panel noted that finance remained a major challenge to scaling green investments, but suggested that the best approach is the non-monetary approach in which financing packages for low-Carbon consumption comes with credit and insurance.

TakeOwnershipofElectricalInstallations, JosDiscoChargesConsumers Seriki Adinoyi in Jos The Jos Electricity Distribution (JED) Company has commended the initiative of Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to bring distribution licensees and MOJEC International Nigeria Limited to a joint partnership, noting that the development was bridging the metering gap and eliminating estimated billing. Addressing journalists after the launch of the Meter Asset Provider Scheme (MAPs) in Jos, the Chief Executive Officer of JED, Engr. Uday Shankar Mishra, said the partnership has become necessary due to the interminable demand from customers requesting to discontinue from estimated billing. He, however, charged consumers to take ownership of installations in their domain, adding

Limited, Mr. Deepanjan Roy, stated that the award was a welcome development and underscored the organisation’s commitment and passion to creating the highest quality fruit juice available in the market today. “The Global Quality Excellence Brand of the Year Award for Chivita 100% also validates our resolve to ensure that our range of Chivita products, including Chivita 100%, continue to be admired for their health, nutrition and high quality,� he added. Chivita 100% is convenient, delicious and offers consumers a range of nourishing 100% fruit juice choices. It is available in 1Litre pack sizes in four variants – Real Orange, Real Apple, Real Pineapple and Red Grape. Incorporated in 1980, CHI Limited is a market leader in the food & beverage sector in Nigeria. Each of its product offerings within the juice & dairy beverages and snacks categories in which it operates are category benchmarks which are loved for their taste and high nutrition. With its ISO 22000 certified state of the art manufacturing facility, CHI deploys advanced processing and packaging technology in making all its products.

although tough, tough in the sense that power/electrical installations that are designed or used for power distribution has suffered vandalism attacks by members of our communities. “The company has through several ways tried to educate and create awareness of the need for communities to ownup electrical installations within, but unfortunately, these social menace has continued to cause a demonstrated amount of damage to our network infrastructure.� He warned that, “When we fold our hands and watch vandals destroy installations, we are deliberately allowing the perpetrators of these menaces continue to send our communities into darkness. We need therefore to unite strongly as partners in business against our common

enemy. “These imminent acts of vandalism and energy theft have formed huge liquidity challenges that have bedeviled the company in recent times with ripple effect on the entire Nigerian power sector value chain.� He disclosed that JED Plc has commenced a debt discount promo this festive season, to help customers with outstanding receivables (balance), settle their debts. The promo, according to Mishra, offers all customers an opportunity to settle all their outstanding debts, at a discounted rate of up to 30 per cent. He assured that, “JED will never relent in ensuring that we serve our esteemed customers through mediums that align with safety and efficient policy frameworks of our regulators (NERC).�

GAS SUPPLY AGREEMENTS

L-R: Group Chief Executive, Oando Plc, Adewale Tinubu; Managing Director, Nigeria Petroleum Development Company, Alhaji Mansur Sambo; General Manager Commercial & Negotiations Nigeria Agip Oil Company, Mr. Massimiliano Bertona, and Managing Director, NLNG, Mr. Tony Attah, during the signing of the NLNG Gas Supply Agreements for Trains 1-3 and 7 in Abuja‌recently

Chivita Wins Award As part of this year’s World Quality Day celebrations, the Chivita 100%, emerged as the ‘Brand of the Year’ at the recently held Global Quality Excellence Award in Lagos. The award represented another milestone for the brand. The award which was organised by the World Quality Alliance recognises excellence in quality conformance to customer needs and promotes awareness of the important contributions that quality makes toward a nation’s growth and prosperity. Chivita 100% is a nationally produced 100 produced fruit juice made from real natural fruits with no added sugar, no artificial colours and no preservatives. It is perfect as a daily source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which provide nourishment for health conscious consumers. According to Ifeoma Esorougwe, the Executive Director, World Quality Alliance, “the Global Quality Excellence Brand of the Year Award is an opportunity for Chivita 100% to be recognized as the number one fruit juice in Nigeria and the responsibility to ensure that it continues to deliver superior quality that consistently exceed consumer expectations.� Speaking on the award, Managing Director of Chi

that the security of electrical installations is everyone’s business. Mishra said having joined the scheme, JED has seen an improvement in the quality of service rendered to cunsumers. In fact, “JED is now one of the best DisCos in Nigeria in terms of handling customer complaints. He added: “It is therefore factual that development is consistent with JED Plc, especially if you have a flashback to the industry before we came on board. It is evident that the young and vibrant workforce pioneering far reaching innovations on how we can better our service is the dream team that can make the dream work of delivering electricity to you in a safe, reliable and cost effective manner. “These few years in business with you have been amazing,

Nokia Launches New Smartphone Emma Okonji HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones has launched the Nokia 2.3 smartphone with feature-packed camera fuelled by Artificial Intelligence (AI), designed to help customers get the best shot ever. The Nokia 2.3 also features a large 6.2� HD+ screen, which comes with two-day battery life for long-lasting and immersive entertainment. The new Nokia 2.3, which runs on Android 10 operating system (OS), was built to receive guaranteed monthly security updates for three years and OS updates for two years, ensuring that the smartphone gets better over time. The Nokia 2.3 features a dual camera and comes with ‘Recom-

mended Shot’, a brand-new Nokia phones feature helping customers to choose the best picture. ‘Recommended Shot’ automatically captures alternate images before and after the shutter button is pressed and suggests the best one. Alongside even more AI-powered features such as ‘Portrait Mode’ and low-light imaging, fans can capture creative images in a variety of settings. The Nokia 2.3, which has a dedicated Google Assistant Button, enhances voice to view upcoming calendar entries, commute times and other info. The Nokia 2.3 also comes with biometric face recognition, allowing customers to unlock your phone at a glance. General Manager, West, East and Central Africa, HMD Global, Mr. Joseph Umunakwe, said:

“Consumers world over have really appreciated the Nokia 2 family of products. The Nokia 2.3 is a step forward in our promise of offering you an experience that stays fresh longer – giving consumers access to two years of OS upgrades and three years of monthly security updates even in the affordable price tier. On top, it offers industry leading AI for this segment, large screen and our signature promise of two-day battery life – making it the ideal pick for those who rely on their smartphone as their primary screen.� The Nokia 2.3 according to Umunakwe, would be equipped with ‘Portrait Mode’, elevating subject and subtly blurring the background, resulting in stunning portraits that pop. “With a 13MP/2MP dual camera, fans can

take unique portraits with a variety of exclusive bokeh – or blurred background effects such as Classic, Butterfly, Heart or Star-shaped styles, and feel like a professional by creating eye-catching photos by simply adjusting the focus when editing.� The device also combines advanced image fusion and exposure stacking, which helps customers to shoot stellar images in vibrant detail, even in low-light conditions, Umunakwe said. Inspired by its Nordic design heritage, the Nokia 2.3 delivers a timeless aesthetic that isn’t just built to look good, but to last. Featuring a 3D nano-textured cover that sits securely in the hands of customers, the phone has a stunning finish that’s sure to leave a lasting impression, Umunakwe added.

Group Empowers Not-for-Profit Organisations Donors for Africa Foundation, recently, inaugurated 30 non-profits and impact-led businesses to address the sustainable development goals (SDGs), into its Social Innovators Boot Camp 2019/2020. The development took place at a conference with the theme: ‘Building for Long Term Impact.’ The founder of the initiative,

Chidi Koldsweat, was quoted in a statement to have said, “for Africa to experience long term development, especially in achieving the SDGs, we must empower social innovators and development leaders driving change at the community level with the technical expertise they need to implement their work successfully. “This 3-month programme will

provide technical expertise to selected organisations to help them address their organisational difficulties, so they can access funds and continue to address development challenges in Africa. After the 12 weeks training, they will pitch for funds in a pitch fest and prizes will be awarded to three winners.� Also, the Executive Director, Skills Development

Organisation, Detoun Ogwo, reiterated the importance of honing individual organisation’s capacity to implement their work more efficiently. Steve Harris, Business Accelerator also stressed the need for not-for-profit organisations run their operations like businesses, putting the right structures in place so they can build for long lasting impact-driven organisations.

MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019 • T H I S D AY

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IMAGES

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu (left) and Chief Executive OďŹƒcer/ Managing Director, Airtel Nigeria, Segun Ogunsanya, during a presentation of phones, SIM cards and airtime to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund as part of Airtel’s CSR programme, at the State House, Alausa, lkeja, Lagos...recently

T H I S D AY Ëž ÍŻÍ´Ëœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

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

L-R: Business Development Manager, BillsnPay & Vericash, CWG Plc, Tereigh Banks Ozakpo; Business Solutions Manager, CWG Plc, Olusegun Ajayi; Business Development, FSI, CWG Plc, Favour Onyeagoziri; Sales Manager, Interswitch, Nicholson Aleke; and Product Manager, CWG Plc, Olaolu Hassan, at the UniďŹ ed Data Management Workshop 2019 by CWG/VERITAS in Lagos...recently PHOTO: AKINYELE ABAYOMI

L-R: Member, House Committee on Aviation, Hon Umar Seriki;Deputy Chairman, Hon Mohammed Pali; Chairman, Hon Nnolim Nnaji; Commissioner/CEO, Accident Investigation Bureau, Mr. Akin Olateru; member of the committee, Hon Kasimu Bello-Maigari and Director of Engineering, Accident Investigation Bureau, Mr Mohammed Wali, during the House Committee on Aviation oversight visit to Accident Investigation Bureau, at Murtala Mohammed Airport, Ikeja ...recently

L-R: Chief Business Development OďŹƒcer, Eye Foundation, Adeyemi Oyewumi; Group Head, Human Resource / Administration, Inlaks, Adetokunbo Ayo-Ogunsanya; Initiator, Hope for Sight Initiative, Lakshmi Gopinathan; and Managing Director, AOS Orwell Limited, Femi Omotayo, at the press conference to announce Inlaks partnership to sponsor free cataract surgery in Lagos recently PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

L-R: Chairman Partnership Strategy Communication Committee, Compliance Institute, Nigeria, Abimbola Adeseyoju; Chairman Finance Committee (CIN), Femi Jaiyeola; CBN, Deputy Director, Leaning Centre, Mrs. Anelekhai AďŹƒ; President/chairman of council, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, (CIBN), Uche Olowu; and the President, Compliance Institute, Nigeria, Pattison Boleigha at the 3rd Induction ceremony of CIN, held in Lagos...recently PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R: CEO, Four Season Legacy, Dr. Olabisi Tofade; Director, Mrs. Elizabeth Ebi; Chairman, Dr.James Fadel; Director, Mrs. Adetumi Uzonwanne; and Director, Mrs. Adeola Lawal, during the presentation of Nigeria Dream Homes by Four Season Legacy Limited in Lagos‌recently PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R; Award-winning cinematographer, Tunde Kelani; MultiChoice Nigeria, Branch Manager, Kano, Hadiza Isah; Managing Director, Moving Image Limited, Abdulkareem Mohammed; MultiChoice Talent Factory Academy Director, West Africa, Femi Odugbemi and kannywood Actor, Umar Gombe, during the Masterclass Series on Cinematography, Sound and Storytelling in Kano State...recently

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L-R : Chairman of the Harvest Committee/ Vice President,Aran-Orin Progressive Union (APU),Lagos,Mr. Rahman Jimoh; Chairman, APU,Elder Joseph Ajiboye; Guest Speaker / Chief Risk OďŹƒcer, Risk Management Division,Bank of Industry, Dr . Ezekiel Oseni; Chairman of the day,Mr John Ajiboye; and Elder Stateman, Mr. Gbolade Jetawo, at the 2019 Harvest of Unity celebration in Lagos...recently

L-R: Lagos Liaison OďŹƒcer of Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Mr. Essien Bassey; Head, NCAT Public Relation Unit, Mr. Jude Amadi; Special Guest for the LAAC Gateway Forum, NCAT Rector, Capt. Mohammed Abdulsalam; Chairman, League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents, Mr. Olusegun Koiki and Principal Assistant Registrar 1, Mrs. Gillian Dunkwu, during the LAAC Gateway Forum in Lagos...recently PHOTO: KOLAWOLE ALLI

R-L: Board Member, Society for Forensic Accounting and Fraud Prevention’s (SFAFP), Mrs. MĂłvul Kondoun Shiva Rae; Board Chairman, Iliyasu B. Gashinbaki and Member, Prof. Hassan Ibrahim, during the induction ceremony of members as Associates of SFAFP, in KeďŹƒ, Nasarawa State‌‌.recently

L-R: Noble Secretary, Ladies of St. Mulumba Nigeria (LSM), Lady Theresa Gyang; Noble Provost 1, LSM Nigeria, Lady Zita Eke; Immediate Past President, LSM, Lagos Metro, Lady Monica Eigbwe;: Metropolitan President, LSM Lagos Metro, Ify Mbelede; and Role Model Awardee, Lady Georgina Umuna, at the 5th LSM day held at Catholic Church of Divine Mercy in Lagos...recently

L-R: Chief Executive OďŹƒcer, Ademola Omolehinwa & Comapny, Mr Ade Omolehinwa; Lecturer, Faculty of Law, University of Abuja, Prof Uwakwe Abugu; Past President, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, (CIS), Mr Mike Itegboje; 2nd Vice President, CIS, Mr Oluwole Adeosun; Deputy Vice Chancellor, Adeleke University, Ede, Prof Solomon Adebola; and CIS’ Head, Training and Continuing Professional Development (CPD), Mr Chukwudi Nga, at the CIS’ stream Three Executive Conversion Programme in Lagos...recently

L-R: Marketing Director, International Breweries Plc, Mrs. Tolulope Adedeji; 1st Runner up, Justice Alili; Show Host, Chinedu Ani (Nedu); Winner, The People’s Hero 2019, Ebuka Eze; 2nd Runner Up, Joel Uzoigwe; Country Manager, ViacomCBS Networks Africa, Bada Akintunde Johnson and Member of the Judges, Tobechukwu Ejiofor (Illbliss), during the grand ďŹ nale and presentation of price to winners of the People’s Hero Talent Hunt Show, in Lagos.....recently

Cross section of youth members of the Edo State Chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC) protesting the factionalisation of the APC in the state, in Benin City...recently

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BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

AFEX Concludes Fundraising Programme Hamid Ayodeji AFEX Commodities Exchange Limited (AFEX), a commodity exchange in Nigeria, has announced that it has secured an investment for an undisclosed amount from Consonance Investment Managers, a Sub-Saharan Africa focused early-stage and growth investment firm. The funds would be used to increase liquidity of the commodity markets, and strengthen operations and technology systems. A statement from the exchange stated that AFEX would ease the access of retail and institutional investors to the commodity markets in Nigeria by deploying its established infrastructure to securitise agricultural products,

ensuring efficient and transparent clearing and settlement. It noted that with more participation in the sector, more innovative products would be listed over time, translating to growth for Nigeria’s capital market and increased funds being directed towards the agricultural sector in the country. According to the statement, this key part of AFEX’s operations requires the deployment of funds towards market sensitisation, training and product development. It pointed out that to support growth and stability of its systems, AFEX would also continue to build technology solutions that support traceability, covering activities all the way from the financial inclusion of producers, through the outreach operations,

and AFEX’s warehouse receipt system, to a trading platform that fosters shared prosperity between producers, processors and investors. “We are delighted to welcome Consonance Investment Managers as partners on this journey. The future requires AFEX to provide our infrastructure as a service to the market and unlock capital for the agriculture sector in Nigeria. “We will grow our operations ten-fold over the next five years; we also aspire to increase funding to agriculture in Nigeria from about N500 billion ($1.5 billion) to more than N2 trillion ($7.5 billion) by 2025,� AFEX CEO, Ayodeji Balogun said. On his part, Managing Partner at Consonance Investment Managers, Mobolaji Adeoye, said.

FCMB Opens New Branch in Ondo First City Monument Bank (FCMB), has opened a new ultra-modern and full-service branch in Ondo City, Ondo State. The new branch, which was unveiled recently, is located at Ondo city. The bank currently has 206 branches spread across Nigeria and three are in Ondo state. The branch in Ondo City is equipped with unique physical and technological infrastructure to ensure convenient transactions and sundry financial service delivery to existing and potential customers in a relaxed and tranquil environment. Speaking on the development, the Managing Director of FCMB, Mr. Adam Nuru, described the development as another turning

point in the commitment of the bank to bring banking closer to the populace and promote financial inclusion in a manner that would positively impact on their individual and business aspirations. Nuru, who was represented at the ceremony by the Regional Head, South-West, Mr. Adelaja Adeleye, said, “with a robust product suite for businesses and individuals and our awardwinning service culture, we intend to leverage these capabilities by investing extensively in some channels to reach more customers. “Today, our customers are embracing these alternative channels such as mobile and internet banking, at an impressive rate, whilst others who prefer human interaction when banking still

need the reassurance a physical branch offers. “Our new Ondo town branch gives this reassurance as it is wellequipped to further enhance the experience of our customers’’. On his part, the Group Head, Branch Service of FCMB, Mr. Ademola Idowu, said, “our new Ondo town branch, like other branches of FCMB across Nigeria, brings with it something special in terms of structure and aesthetics. “Part of our commitment to promoting a cleaner and greener environment, is by use of renewable energy and in this new branch, we have adopted solar technology which is a clean energy solution that produces minimal waste. It is non-pollutant and great for the environment’’.

Fidelity Bank Rewards Customers Ndubuisi Francis Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;ÔË Fidelity Bank Plc has declared its resolve to continue to support the national financial inclusion strategy with a view to reduce the percentage of financially excluded Nigerians. The bank said a situation where over 50 million Nigerians are excluded from the financial system, which represents more than 45 per cent of the population, creates major impediments to the nation’s growth trajectory. The Managing Director/CEO Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo made the assertions in Abuja, weekend when the bank presented prizes to winners of its ‘Get Alert in Millions (GAIM) savings promo. The lucky winners of GAIM

emerged from the second monthly/ first bi-monthly draw (Season 4) of the promo, which held at the bank’s Regional Office in Abuja. There were three categories of winners among the customers--- N3 million, N2 million and N1 million, in addition to 18 consolation prizes of television sets, generators and refrigerators. In his remarks on the occasion, Okonkwo who was represented by the Regional Bank Head Northwest 1, Manir Ringim, said lucky customers of the bank would cart away N120 million at the end of the promo in April 2020, pointing out that N15 million was won during the first draw in Ibadan and N19 million in Abuja bringing the total to N34 million after the second draw. According to

him, the promo which started in October 2019 was part of the bank’s efforts at deepening the financial Inclusion strategy of the government and ensure more people are financially included. “As we speak, over 50 million Nigerians are financially excluded, which represents about 45 per cent of our population and we in Fidelity Bank want to break this gap and also encourage more people to embrace savings culture,� he said. On how people can qualify for the draw, the bank’s Group Head, Savings and Retail Sales, Mrs. Janet Nnabuko, said both existing and new customers can win by simply topping their account with N10,000 for existing customers or someone opening a new account and building it up to N20,000.

Wema Bank Promotes Saving Culture amongYoung ALAT By Wema Bank is promoting a savings culture among Nigerian youths by offering exciting deals and discounts ahead of Christmas festivities. The digital banking platform, created by Wema Bank, has been helping young Nigerians save since its unveiling in 2017. Ahead of the yuletide, the digital bank launched a ‘Save With Teni’ which was designed to help young people save towards the festive season. “Young Nigerians were encouraged to save through its interesting app features such as Group Savings, Stash, Flexi savings, Rotating Savings and many more. “Through ‘Save

with Teni’ campaign, the bank further offered a chance to its customers to win tickets to Teni’s Billionaire Experience Concert which holds on Monday 16, December 2019 at Eko Hotel and Suites,� a statement from the bank explained. According to Head, Brand and Marketing Communications, Wema Bank Plc., Mrs Funmilayo Falola, the savings campaign was one of the key ways the ALAT aims to enhance customer experience and drive financial inclusion while delivering on its promise to offer simple, convenient and reliable banking. “Along with the savings campaign, ALAT By Wema is

also allowing its customers to spend and save this season. “Customers get to enjoy amazing deals and discounts when make payments with ALAT or Wema Bank cards at select restaurants, hotels or buy movie tickets available on the app. “Fun and concert-loving customers can also purchase tickets to their favourite shows and events this December on the app. “Tickets to the Billionaire Experience and other concerts including Rhythm Unplugged, Emotan stage play, Grown and Sexy and many more are available on the Lifestyle tab on the ALAT,� Falola added.

L-R: Business Development Manager, AFEX, Akinyinka Akintunde; CEO, Ayodeji Balogun, and Commercial Manager, Iruansi Itoandon, during a strategy session by the organisation, held in Lagos‌recently

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

SEPTEMBER 2019 Money Supply (M3)

35,029,779.72

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

7,374,356.91

Money Supply (M2)

27,655,422.82

-- Quasi Money

116,533,891.21

-- Narrow Money (M1)

11,121,531.60

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,625,047.69

---- Demand Deposits

9,496,483.91

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

13,911,335.83

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

21,118,443.89

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

35,918,179.45

---- Credit to Government (Net)

10,452,199.38

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

11,007,422.79

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

25,465,980.07

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

-14,799,735.56

--Other Assets Net

7,000,253.07

Reserve Money (Base Money

2,005,600.83

--Currency in Circulation

4,677,530.81

--Banks Reserves

317,121.43

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Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month 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

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OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT THURSDAY, 12 DECEMBER 2019

The price of OPEC basket of fourteen crudes stood at $65.81 a barrel on Thursday, compared with $65.38 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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MARKET NEWS

NASD OTC Woos PFAs, Engages ASHON on Market Deepening Goddy Egene The Managing Director/CEO of NASD OTC, the platform for the trading of unlisted securities, Mr. Bola Ajomale, has said efforts were on to ensure that Pension Administrators (PFAs) begin to invest in securities in the market. Ajomale disclosed this at a meeting with the Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON), to discuss strategic partner-

ship in the area of trading in securities and market development. According to him, NASD OTC has started engaging PFAs so that they could start trading in the market from 2020. “We are working on creating an index in conjunction with S&P on five top players in the market and on this index a fund can be created. Also, in recognition of the large size of fixed income

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market and its importance, the NASD is set to introduce a new commercial paper trading initiative which is currently going through the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for approval. ASHON’s support is essential to its success in the market,� he said. He said emphasis should be on growth in the business, explaining that the growth is in finding companies and bringing them to the market.

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“There is a new portal being introduced which has the capacity to take care of this new line of thought and it is expected to come on stream soon. The portal will be introduced formally to ASHON members. It was advised that we should encourage the members of ASHON to look at other markets like FMDQ Securities Exchange since the wealth the traders we make will cascade to the NASD,� Ajomale said.

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According to the Chairman of ASHON, Chief Onyenwechukwu Ezeagu, the association was engaging with all exchanges and trade points in Nigeria in order to expand the scope of operations and the income stream of her members. “We are extending this new initiative to include other markets outside Nigeria as evident in our participation in the formation of the African Stockbrokers and Securities

O F

Dealers Association (ASSDA) which is part of the African Linkage Project. We want to formally engage the management of NASD on how we can improve and streamline our relationship through regular discussion with the utmost aim of improving the market. The 4th Industrial Revelation is powered by Fintech and there is a need for us to be ready for its disruptive tendencies,� he said.

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MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019 •T H I S D AY

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS

Vetiva Projects Inflation Rates of 11.39% in 2019, 11.27% in 2020 Goddy Egene

Fifteen days to the end of 2019, Vetiva Research has projected an average consumer price index(CPI) of 11.39 per cent and 11.27 per cent for 2020. Head of Research at Vetiva, Usoro Essien said: “One of the major threats to our outlook

for headline inflation in 2020 is a spike in core inflation by second quarter (Q2), driven by an anticipated hike in electricity tariffs (Multi-year Tariff order). However, the pressure on core inflation will be subdued by first half (H2) due to the heightened base of fourth quarter (Q4) of 2019. While the average headline

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

inflation is expected to moderate year on year,we believe average headline inflation (11.86 per cent) in the first half (H1) of 2020 will be materially higher than the estimated average of 10.67 per cent in H2 of the year,” According to Vetiva, the effect of the land border closure would drive acceleration in the headline

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 12Dec-2019, unless otherwise stated.

index from Q4’19 into Q1’20 due to the demand-pull effect from lower supply of food staples. The investment banking firm, however, highlighted that it does not expect sustained pressure on food prices beyond Q1’20, as food prices would subsequently stabilise as domestic food supply increases to plug the existing

shortage. “The improved outlook for the Agriculture sector and rice output support this view, with milled rice production growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of five per cent. Additionally, the hike in valueadded tax (VAT), expected to take effect in January, would

pressure general price levels next year, as it applies to virtually all processed goods and services across the country. However, we expect the impact of the VAT hike on month-on-month inflation to wane in Q2’20, as the effect in the preceding period would create strong monthly CPI bases,” Vetiva said.

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 143.31 146.14 -8.63% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 11.31% Nigeria International Debt Fund 310.53 310.53 17.74% ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund 0.90 0.90 6.51% ACAP Income Funds 0.77 0.77 34.95% 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 11.37% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.43 2.47 9.56% 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 14.97 15.42 -9.76% ARM Discovery Fund 341.34 351.63 -4.29% ARM Ethical Fund 29.06 29.94 2.91% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.54% 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 94.83 95.49 -6.29% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 10.34% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 1.91 1.91 15.37% 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 0.12 0.10 11.70% Paramount Equity Fund 12.37 12.48 4.76% Women's Investment Fund 109.59 110.58 5.97% 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 10.43% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 97.40 98.08 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 98.83 99.67 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.34% Coronation Balanced Fund 0.94 0.94 9.48% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.39 1.39 23.69% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 10.30% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 8.87% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,203.98 1,209.89 20.60% 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 1,279.48 1,280.66 19.63% FBN Balanced Fund 143.16 144.20 0.27% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 10.72% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional 118.88 119.21 9.25% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 119.45 119.77 10.02% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 127.16 128.81 -15.23% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.77% Legacy Debt Fund 3.64 3.64 12.17% Legacy Equity Fund 1.09 1.11 -10.91% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.08 1.08 4.89% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 3,061.15 3,094.50 2.61% Coral Income Fund 3,077.13 3,077.13 12.27% FSDH Treasury Bills Fund 100.00 100.00 11.74% 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 9.85% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 116.25 116.85 7.60% 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 10.00 10.00 11.88%

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 10.35% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.18 2.20 0.86% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 11.10% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 142.42 142.57 13.98% 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 1.17 1.19 6.37% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,119.55 1,119.55 12.30% 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 9.39 9.48 -11.83% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 9.07% 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 1.30 1.32 5.39% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.23 12.30 9.32% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 11.75% PACAM Equity Fund 1.01 1.02 PACAM EuroBond Fund 102.45 104.48 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 133.11 134.40 18.91% 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 13.14% 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 2,505.23 2,516.57 8.19% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 210.17 210.17 12.90% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.86 0.87 -8.95% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 273.52 273.61 12.70% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 152.61 154.32 -6.45% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 10.11% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 7,611.66 7,692.75 -10.39% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.16 1.16 6.74% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 101.99 101.99 0.00% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.17 1.18 0.63% United Capital Bond Fund 1.68 1.68 15.98% United Capital Equity Fund 0.68 0.69 -5.19% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.40% United Capital Eurobond Fund 111.40 111.4045 8.07% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.07 1.07 6.06% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 10.30 10.39 -9.02% Zenith Ethical Fund 11.72 11.87 -6.45% Zenith Income Fund 22.81 22.81 12.82% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.43%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

5.40 118.57 53.38

-44.85% 6.66% 3.17%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

8.34 89.75 70.82

8.44 91.69 72.16

-16.13% -20.71% -17.48%

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

3.43 5.36 11.79 10.41 168.56

3.47 5.44 11.89 10.61 170.56

-14.07% -29.51% -19.26% -15.63% 26.31%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

108.40

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.

T H I S D AY Ëž ÍŻÍ´Ëœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

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CITYSTRINGS

ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ăš Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ™ĂœË? Ă’Ă“Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă–Ă“Ă? äĂ?Ă™ĂŒĂ“ Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă– Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă–Ă“Ă?Ë›Ă?äĂ?Ă™ĂŒĂ“ĚśĂžĂ’Ă“Ă?ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ–Ă“Ă Ă?Ë›Ă?Ă™Ă—Ëœ ͙͔͙͚͚͓͖͑͑͑͒

Role of Religious Organisations in Nation-building Chiamaka Ozulumba writes that the recently held The Experience 2019 emphasised the role of religious organisations in nation-building

Sinach

Eben

Tope Alabi

Travis Greene

Don Moen

Nathaniel Bassey

Donnie McClurkin

Todd Dulaney

T

he Tafawa Balewa Square filled above and beyond capacity – again, with a colossal number of worshippers on Friday, December 6, in what was the most anticipated inspirational gospel event in the world; The Experience 2019. At the press conference of the 14th edition of The Experience, Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Churches and Convener of The Experience, Paul Adefarasin, enunciated the role of faith-based organisations and their responsibility in upholding the government in nation building. In his charge to religious bodies in the country, he said; “There has never been a time more critical time for the mystical body of Christ to set its house aright and take the lead in the positive reorientation of our national values�. He further went on to encourage Nigerians far and wide to pursue love and justice saying; “Evidently, it is incumbent on all Nigerians, regardless of tribe, creed, faith base to now return to the values of our Creator, turn from our wicked ways, reform our families and society and pray that the Almighty God will empower and enable us to ensure truth, justice, equity and development in our beloved nation�.

L-R: Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Churches and Convener of The Experience, Paul Adefarasin; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; wife, Dr. Ibijoke; and co-Convener TEF, Pastor Ifeanyi Adefarasin

Adefarasin also reinforced the position of The Experience in creating successful entrepreneurs in diverse fields of endeavor which contributes significantly to state, national and creative economies. Unmatched energy was realised at this year ’s edition of the annual event as indigenous and interna-

tional acts including Don Moen, Travis Greene, Donnie McClurkin, Planetshakers, Tope Alabi, Sammie Okposo Chioma Jesus, Glowreeyah, Eben, Onos, Sinach, and the magnificent Metropolitan Gospel Choir brought the heavens down with their sonorous voices in alignmentwith the theme “Let Us Worship Jesus�.

This year’s edition was particularly spectacular for newcomers to The Experience stage, Todd Dulaney, Mercy Chinwo, William McDowell and Preye Odede as they, each, got the up-close and unrivaled sensation of performing the center stage for the whole world to see God’s glory! Special guests included the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide SanwoOlu who said, while addressing hundreds of thousands of worshippers in the early hours of Saturday, that his administration will continue to collaborate with forward-looking organisations and religious bodies for the development of the state. Attendees from nations, varying age groups and walks of life had their hands lifted and feet erratic with joy mixed with excitement and nostalgia through the starry night as their souls and hearts were connected to God’s spirit through high praise. It was clear they had come to worship God and nothing would stand in their way. Streamed on online platforms, The Experience reached millions all over the world as people who couldn’t physically make it to the venue got a glimpse of the nightly glory as The Experience sounds wafted from their speakers and broadcast on their screens. It was truly a spectacular night to worship God!

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CRIME&SECURITY

The Chief of Policy and Plans Naval Headquarters, Rear Admiral Begroy Ibe-Enwo (centre), anked (left and right) by the newly promoted Commanders and Principal Sta OďŹƒcers of Naval Headquarters during the decoration ceremony...DINFO

Expert Flays Attempt to Concession Core Functions of NCS Mary Nnah

A

maritime expert, Prince Olusegun Ologbese has flayed the attempts in some quarters to concession some of the present roles and responsibilities of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). Since its establishment decades ago, revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations and trade facilitation remain the three core functions of the NCS besides assisting the federal government to attain set goals and objectives in line with its fiscal and monetary policies. The NCS also maintains the import prohibition list (IPL) and the export prohibition list (EPL) through the laid down rules and regulations provided by its supervisory ministry, the Federal Ministry of Finance, among other things. Ologbese who is also a Lagos-based licensed customs agent with decades of experience and exposure in the maritime industry maintained that the proposed plan by the federal government to concession any part of the NCS to a group of few Nigerians using different names at different times to make sure they deceive the people in the government and take over the critical operations in NCS does not augur well for Nigeria nay, Nigerians. He noted that the argument in support of concessioning Customs functions is fraught with danger to the country in the long run. Describing the move as fraudulent, the maritime expert gave a historical insight into how the concession of the core functions of NCS has become a recurring decimal in the Nigerian economy over the years. He said: “Concession of any part of Customs under any guide is fraudulent. They first succeeded during the administration of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo which they called at that time pre-shipment inspection. As a result, the functions of Customs were concessioned to three firms namely, Cotecna, SGS and Globalcan. “They succeeded to an extent because they made former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his administration to believe that it was the best thing to happen to Customs as far as the efficient clearance of goods in the nation’s seaports, airports and international land borders were concerned. They also made Obasanjo to believe that men and officers of Customs were corrupt. “At the end of the day, it was discovered that they added little or no value to the cargo clearance chain. They were eventually sacked and since then, they have been finding every possible means under different guise and names to stage a comeback�. According to Ologbese, who is also the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ogbese Marine International Limited, this is the genesis for the use of crown agents based in London, United Kingdom at one time; as well as the use

Ologbese of customs modernisation; E-custom project; establishment of a digital paperless custom administration and so on at different other times. He enjoined President Mohammadu Buhari and those working for him not swallow the baits of these persons and group who are bent on coming back into the system to allegedly exploit Nigeria and Nigerians. Ologbese who is also the life patron of the

Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Ondo and Ekiti chapters said he was breaking his silence to ensure that Mr. President and his administration do not swallow hook sink and line the arguments of those in support of the concession of Customs functions as they do not mean well for the country and Nigerians. According to the maritime expert, Nigeria Customs has done so well in recent times especially in the area of revenue generation that it does not need any external companies to take over its statutory roles and responsibilities. “What we need now is the support of every Nigeria to ensure that it can do more. Already, the headquarters of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) in Brussels has given thumbs up to the service. Just like President Buhari, the present Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Colonel Ibrahim Ahmed Ali (retired) is incorruptible. He and his team should be encouraged to do more.� He argued that nobody should buy the idea that the groups positioning themselves to take over the functions of Customs have any value to add to Nigeria. “Let me ask you, what are they coming to modernise? In fact, their argument that they are on a project of modernisation in Nigeria Customs Service is very insulting because our Customs has gone far on modernisation.

Nobody can use or hide under the word ‘corruption and modernisation’ to fool us again in this country. It will dent the image of President Buhari as a man known for integrity to allow anybody under any guise to perpetrate corruption in name of coming to modernise Nigeria Customs Service. “Ali should be praised for the high performance of Customs in recent times especially in revenue generation and curtailing smuggling. Remember, poor people are not the brain behind smuggling. It is the rich and they are fighting tooth and nail from different corners to undermine Customs. We should not fall for their trap,� he added. He stressed the need for all hands to be on deck to ensure that Ali and his team succeed in their quest to meet set goals and objectives especially in the discharge of Customs statutory roles and responsibilities in the months ahead. The maritime expert noted that President Buhari should at all times be mindful of the legacy he wants to leave behind as he was no more seeking for election into another political office. He maintained that he should not allow anybody within his cabinet to rubbish his image or that of his administration as far as corruption is concern as he would not have another opportunity to come back and correct it in the minds of Nigerians.

Ikpeazu Seeks End to Gender-based Violence Emmanuel Ugwu in Umuahia

W

ife of Abia State Governor, Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu has called for total elimination of all forms of gender-based violence (GBV), saying that achieving this goal would make for a better family system and inclusive society. She made the call at a press conference in Umuahia organised by a coalition of NGOs and civil society groups in the state as part of activities to mark the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, an international campaign for the elimination of violence against women and girls. The campaign with the theme, 'Orange the World: Generation Equality Stands Against Rape' commenced on November 25 and ended on December 10, the International Human Rights Day. Through her pet project, the Vicar Hope Foundation(VHF), the Abia governor's wife has been partnering groups working in the GBV space, including Federation of International Women Lawyers(FIDA), National Council of Women Society(NCWS) as well as the state ministry of women affairs in the campaign against GBV. "Violence against Women and girls is a problem of pandemic proportions. At least

one out of every three women around the world has been beaten, coerced into sex or mutilated,� Mrs Ikpeazu said, adding that all hands must be on deck to reverse the ugly trend. She regretted that, inspite of the long years of agitations for gender equality, not much has been achieved as it has become "a sad reality that on a daily basis, women and girls around the world are still experiencing harassment and violence of all forms and types". According to her, while gender-based violence "is a phenomenon deeply rooted in gender inequality, both men and women experience it but she pointed out that current statistics showed that "women and girls are the major victims". Mrs. Ikpeazu stated that "gender based violence is a violation of the fundamental human rights of women and girls". She also warned against a social environment where sexual violence is pervasive and treated as a way of life thus encouraging rape, domestic violence, sexual harassment, female genital mutilation, dowry-related abuse, marriage by abduction, forced marriage, and child marriage. "Violence against women and girls often impair their productivity, by reducing their contribution to the social, economic, and political development of their families and communities," she said, adding that "the psychological effect

of GBV hinders the victims from attaining their full potentials. "Today, we are convinced that there is still a lot to be done, beyond the chants, we need to revise our laws, domesticate where necessary and strengthen its enforcement�. Mrs. Ikpeazu, who is the chairperson of VHF expressed optimism that Abia would soon get a legal instrument to combat GBV following her advocacy campaigns with coalition of CSOs. She said: "Today I am happy that the proactive 7th Assembly is seriously working on the bill with a view to giving it a speedy passage. It is also pertinent to note that for several years’ efforts to pass the bill have been on snail speed until this coalition of civil society organisations came together, joined forces and also met a willing House of Assembly that puts the people first". The governor's wife announced that the Vicar Hope Foundation has set up a GenderBased Violence Response Desk to complement efforts by partners and support groups. She urged the media to support the campaign by exposing and highlighting GBV in the society. Former chairman of FIDA in Abia State, Chidinma Alozie, who spoke on behalf of the coalition partners, commended Mrs. Ikpeazu for her doggedness in the campaign to eliminate GBV.

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MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019 •T H I S D AY

MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019 • T H I S D AY

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MONDAY, ͚͞˜ ͺ͸͚Π˞ T H I S D AY

FOR THE RECORDS

20 Years of Nigeria’s Democracy Aminu Waziri Tambuwal

M

r. Chairman, please let me add my voice to those of others and thank the organisers of this conference for the kind invitation extended to me to join such a galaxy of scholars. I believe I speak on behalf of my fellow countrymen and women in Nigeria when I say how much we appreciate the University of Oxford through St. Antony's College for the time and attention you have given to Nigeria since the inception of the African Studies programme here. And of course, a special thanks to my friend and brother, Professor Wale Adebanwi for taking the African Studies Programme to greater heights. Eku se o! Yes, I agree this university holds a unique place in the world. It is not just a home to great thinkers of the past, but it is also a constant reference for great ideas of the future. I am fully aware that the tradition of the influential study of Africa in this university predates the 2004 when this centre was founded, let me also state here that it is difficult to think of a Nigerian national leader or administration, since 1960 till date, that has not had his policy, pronouncement or at least thoughts influenced by studies or opinion from this university, so Oxford and Nigeria have been together for long, for better or for worse. I am of the opinion that spaces of learning should be areas immuned from raw partisan politics and I also feel that discussions in these places should never be based on, or motivated by pure partisan affiliations, it is my view that a university or any other citadel or institution of learning should be dedicated to, and should accommodate only rigorous rational reflections that can illuminate minds of all for the betterment of the society. During the early years of Nigeria's democracy, I was armed with a bachelor's degree in law from Usman Dan Fodio University in Sokoto and was studying for my master's degree. I had gone into law school as a young man full of idealism. Coming from humble beginnings, I had witnessed some of the inequalities of the legal system, and I wanted to work from the inside to change them. I thought that as a lawyer I could do my part to help the weak and vulnerable. At that time, I had no political aspirations, but I did have strong feelings about what I saw around me. Living under the military regime for most of my life, I had seen first-hand the impact of military dictatorship on society. I was frustrated by the slow pace of development in my country. And in the early part of this century, I became excited by the promise of democracy. I wanted to be involved. I became a legislative aide, and I started to believe that God had another path in mind for me. In reflecting on the 20 years of Nigeria's Democracy, I will, therefore, do my best to refrain from any observation or pronouncement based on partisan affiliation and I will use facts to focus on the system as a whole knowing that political parties, citizens and politicians are largely variables and reflections of the system as a whole. The best or the worst we do is ultimately a product of, or a reaction to the system, or if you wish reaction to the environment in which we live and operate. Looking back over the past two decades, I must admit that our democracy has not yet reached its potential. Threats of violence and corruption still undermine people's trust, and as elected officials, we still have much to do to demonstrate that we are worthy of that trust. When we talk about 20 years of Nigeria's Democracy it is important that we first remind ourselves that the 20 years we are analysing means 20 years away from a period when under military dictatorship the Nigerian Government and country were treated as a pariah unit, not welcomed in the community of civil and democratic states. The period before the 20 years we are to talk about today, was a period in which Nigerian citizens could not vote at all, it was a time when groups and individuals could not express themselves at all let alone freely; 20 years ago, public officer holders were not accountable to any legislative body let alone to the general public. Yes, in Nigeria, we now have elections where people can vote and be voted for, but how free and fair are these elections? Even within political parties, the credibility of elections and the whole internal democratic process depends on which faction of the party one belongs to. If we are to have a credible foundation for our democracy, this is the first thing we must address. Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I refer to Institutions. I refer to the only base on which we, like any other truly democratic society, can build upon and the cover under which we, like any other truly democratic society, can get protection from the whims, madness or even cleverness of any single individual who might have his or her interests or flaws. Institutions, not individuals protect the collective interest and grow the commonwealth in a fair, legal and lasting way. The best individuals can do is to help build institutions. The lack of institutions that all can truly trust and fully depend upon is perhaps the biggest flaw in our 20 years of democracy. I can tell you that building systems that take all voices into consideration is hard work and it can be frustrating. Believing in a democracy means taking time to persuade and build consensus rather than seeing those who disagree as enemies to be overpowered. It means agreeing to accept the will of the majority when your side does not win. The temptation to circumvent the process through violence will always be with us and must be fought. I am however optimistic because my experience first as a

Buhari lawyer, later as a legislator and then as a governor has given me the rare opportunity to mix with people from all areas and persuasion of Nigeria and part of what this experience has shown me is that we have people that can build institutions. We have people that understand the importance of strong and legitimate institutions that can work for all. The other important thing my experience has shown me thanks to my mental curiosity and physical travels to meet Nigerians across Nigeria and indeed outside Nigeria is that our fears, our desires, and aspirations as people are more similar than some want to make us believe. I have noted that regardless of where people come from or wherever they live, or whichever language they speak or in whichever way they worship, what people, all kinds of people, really desire is to live in a peaceful environment where they can express themselves freely, work, study, love, worship and prosper. That is what most people feel democracy is about. Nigerians expect development from Democracy; in Nigeria, we call it dividends of democracy. Nigerians share faith in democracy. But democracies do not exist solely on faith. Maintaining a democracy is work- persistent, attentive work-- not only by our leaders but by the people as well. We are all in this together. Nigerians be vigilant. I am convinced that to lead Nigeria to a place where citizens will be proud of our democracy and happy to defend the institutions of democracy, we need men and women who understand that our greatest assets are our children and that the biggest gift we can give, the best way we can nurture these children is by giving them education, good education! I believe that the burden of leadership must be shared among those who understand that every ward in Nigeria should have a full-fledged functional secondary school. That is why in Sokoto, in the last five years our education has always taken the largest part of our budget. There is no point in having educated people who will not live long, so I also strongly believe that health in Nigeria must be made a priority. We need to build health institutions and facilities that are near to the people, affordable for all and capable of effectively and efficiently preventing and curing sicknesses. We need to drastically improve our attitude to research, practice, and remuneration related to the provision of healthcare services. A major area in which we have not done well in the past 20 years, is food security. We need to make it a priority and policy to feed our people. The Agric Sector must be seen as a strong potential source for creating jobs and wealth. A particular area that we have particularly left adrift in the past 20 years is housing. This is very sad and strange to me because housing does not only cater for very basic and obvious needs of almost everyone in the country, but it is also one area that can easily create employment and wealth, it is an area that can positively affect most citizens as a process and as an outcome. At the moment we are having a deficit of over 20 million housing units. It is my opinion that a democracy of well-housed citizens is a stronger democracy. The last 20 years have also sadly seen the growth of security issues that are sometimes, tinted in ethnopolitical shades, as well as in religious and professional and colours. Insecurity, whether in form of raw and pure banditry, to organised crime or fraud, to terrorism, of any kind, is powered by an army of desperate, reckless and hopeless youths who do not see a future in a legitimate society and who do not share the values proclaimed by such society. So far, we have not been able to win the battle against insecurity in a way that will make our citizens feel truly safe across the length and breadth of Nigeria and we have not in

the last 20 years made the rest of the world see Nigeria as a place safe enough to go to without apprehension or extra care. It must be said here, that the issue of insecurity is a global issue and it will be unwise to oversimplify such a complex issue. I, however, believe that two major things among others to fight and win the war on all form of insecurity is to focus on one side, on prevention through the battle of minds through education and engagement and on the other side build a superior security force that can contain all strands of enemies of peace and security. The oxygen that helps criminals and terrorists stay alive is made up of the availability of an army of desperate, reckless and hopeless youths who do not see a future in legitimate society. We need to stop this flow. We need to provide education and hope for these youths so that we can win them away from joining the flocks of those who want to harm us. It is important to do all that we possibly can do to ensure that potential armies of criminals and terrorists feel they are better off being part of a legitimate society and not the illegal part of it. We must identify and engage idle hands so that they do not fall prey and become the devil's workshop. Another important area of prevention is intelligence gathering. We need to shape our security system in a way that can intercept and foil plans, actions, groups and individuals that want to bring harm to us. We certainly need to better train, better equip and give better care to our servicemen and women who are currently largely understaffed, highly overworked and generally disillusioned. Allow me to pay tribute to all our gallant officers and men of our security services, serving and those who have lost their lives in the service of our dear country. Allow me to be a lawyer here and to say where the rule of law does not reign there will not only be chaos and danger but also that there can be supreme, no progress and prosperity. The question of disrespect for the rule of law is one major problem that we have not been able to solve in the last 20 years. There is a myth that Nigeria is ungovernable because of its many religions and languages. I do not believe it. It has become a clichĂŠ to say, "our diversity is our strength." Well, there is something to be said for clichĂŠs. I believe the reason this thought has been repeated so often is that it is true. As I have traveled around the country, I have found that insights and answers can be found in all of our communities. The building blocks needed for the somewhat elusive common ground we seek as a nation already exists. My emergence as the speaker of the House of Representatives in 2011 is a case in point, where there was a consensus by the majority of members to support my candidature irrespective of political, religious and ethnic differences. Our varied backgrounds provide different ways of approaching problems and different perspectives, and this gives us enormous potential. This is not to say that our differences are not real. One of the great challenges inherent to any democracy, but especially in a society as diverse as ours, is to ensure that representatives elected by the majority do not leave the members of minorities feeling that democracy is-- to quote one of your famous Oxford alumni, Oscar Wilde--'the bludgeoning of the people by the people for the people." As elected leaders, it is incumbent upon us to act for the benefit of ALL of our constituents, not only to listen but to demonstrate that we are listening. A few suggestions are necessary here. The first is that a new electoral act that entrenches a foolproof electronic voting system and reduces the interference of security agencies in elections has become urgent. Secondly, Judicial reform that enhances the independence of the judiciary is key to the sustenance of Nigeria's democracy. A situation where senior judicial officers can be removed almost whimsically leaves much to be desired. Thirdly, the appointment and removal of heads of security agencies, especially the Police, which is the central security organisation in a democracy should be made subject to Legislative approval. Fourthly, the zero-sum nature of Nigeria's politics needs to be revisited in such a way that the winner take all system is changed for a more inclusive system to eliminate extreme desperation to win elections. Fifthly, as we reflect on the 20 years of democracy in Nigeria for the period 1999 and 2019, we must begin to refocus our attention to the electorate in terms of why and how their mandates matter. Delivery of good government has emerged as one of the central bases for democratic consolidation. If citizens feel that a government is working for them and totally committed to their interests and welfare it is easy to mobilize them for development. In this sense, the notion of mandate is linked to the authority vested in the elected representatives by the people to govern on their behalf. The link between the people and the election is that through the ballot box, they are able to confer or withdraw their support to a political party or candidate. Lastly, the need for national unity, inclusive and fair approach to governance is a sure guarantee for democratic stability. At the end of the day, our fault lines and cleavages will be better managed where there is a sense of belonging by all groups within the nation. To do so, we need to learn from our past, be bold enough to see and accept where we have gotten it wrong, understand the need to pull together our best minds in a bid to build a lasting fair, functional, truly representative and flexible institutions that work for All Nigerians. r(PWFSOPS "NJOV 8B[JSJ 5BNCVXBM PG 4PLPUP 4UBUF EFMJWFSFE UIJT TQFFDI BU UIF "GSJDBO 4UVEJFT $FOUSF 0YGPSE 6OJWFSTJUZ 6, SFDFOUMZ

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MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

24 Killed in DR Congo Gold Mine Collapse Twenty-four people were killed when a landslide engulfed a gold mine in DR Congo’s eastern Ituri province

after days of torrential rain battered the region, an official said Sunday. “Our teams on the ground ..

US Expels Chinese Diplomats on Suspicion of Espionage The United States secretly expelled two Chinese embassy officials in September after they drove onto a sensitive military base in Virginia, The New York Times reported Sunday. The newspaper, which cited people with knowledge of the episode, said it appeared to be the first time in more than 30 years that the US has expelled Chinese diplomats on suspicion of espionage. At least one of the diplomats was believed to be an intelligence officer operating under cover, the Times said. The Times said the diplomats, accompanied by their wives, drove up to the checkpoint at the entrance to a sensitive installation near Norfolk,

have pulled out 24 bodies and saved two people,” provincial minister of mining Dieudonne Apasa said. As rescuer workers were still searching, the toll could rise, he said. “The incident happened yesterday between 5:30 p.m. (1530 GMT) and 6:00 p.m. They were taken by surprise by a landslide, which engulfed them,” Apasa

added. “The almost daily rains that have been falling recently on the region are the main cause of this landslide.” The gold panners were working at Ndiyo mine around 40 kilometres (25 miles) from Watsa, the main town in the Watsa territory of Upper-Uele province.

Further to the south, civil authorities said landslides caused by the incessant rain had killed 31 people between December 7 and 14 at Bukavu in eastern South Kivu province. A similar disaster in a makeshift mine at Maniema further to the west killed 31 people in October, and landslides caused by heavy rains were blamed for at

least 41 deaths in the capital Kinshasa on November 26. Accidents in DR Congo’s makeshift mines are a common occurrence and are often deadly. Because many such mines are in remote areas, however, the accidents are under-reported. The miners sell what they find to local traders, who sell it on to large foreign companies.

Virginia, that includes special operations forces. The guard saw that they didn’t have permission to enter and directed them to go through the gates, turn around and exit. The Chinese officials continued onto the base, evading military personnel pursuing them until they were forced to stop by fire trucks blocking their path, according to the Times. It said the officials said they didn’t understand the guard’s instructions and got lost. Weeks after the incident, the State Department placed restrictions on the activities of Chinese diplomats, in what it said was a response to years-old Chinese regulations limiting the movements of US diplomats.

Six Dead In Protests Against Indian Citizenship Law Angry protesters in northeast India vowed Sunday to keep demonstrating against a contentious citizenship law as the death toll from bloody clashes opposing the bill rose to six. Tension remained high at the epicentre of the unrest in Assam state’s biggest city, Guwahati, with troops patrolling the streets amid tight security. In Assam, four people died after being shot by police, while another was killed when a shop he was sleeping in was set on fire and a sixth after he was beaten up during a protest, officials said. Some 5,000 people took part in a fresh demonstration in the city on Sunday, with hundreds of police watching as they sang, chanted and carried banners with the words “long live Assam”. The legislation, passed by the national parliament on Wednesday, allows New Delhi to grant citizenship to millions of illegal immigrants who entered India from three neighbouring countries on or before December 31, 2014 – but not if they are Muslim. Besides stoking concern among Muslims, the proposed changes have also led to demonstrations by residents unhappy about an influx of Hindus from neighbouring Bangladesh who stand to gain citizenship. “Assam will continue to protest. India is a democracy and the government has to listen to us,” said Karan Mili, a colleague of one of the victims, 25-year-old Iswor Nayak, who died Sunday. “We don’t want violence but protests will continue… Assamese will not stop until government revokes the law,” another demonstrator, Pratima Sharma, told AFP. Officials said oil and gas production in the state were hit by the curfew, although the restrictions were eased during the day on Sunday with some shops opening.

In West Bengal state, where protests stretched into a third day, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee — who has spoken out against the national government’s push for the law — suspended internet services in several districts. Demonstrators set fire to tyres, staged sit-ins on highways and railway tracks, and torched trains and buses, with riot police brought in to disperse protesters and train services suspended in some parts of the east. In India’s capital New Delhi, video shared on social media showed a bus on fire and police appearing to fire tear gas at protesters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi blamed the opposition Congress party for the violence. “To give respect to those who fled to India and were forced to live as refugees, both houses of parliament passed the Citizenship Amendment Bill,” he said Sunday at a rally in eastern Jharkhand state. “Congress and its allies are stoking fire over the Citizenship Act but people of northeast have rejected violence… They (Congress supporters) are resorting to arson because they did not get their way.” Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday called again for calm, saying local cultures in northeastern states were not under threat. “Culture, language, social identity and political rights of our brothers and sisters from the northeast will remain intact,” Shah added in Jharkhand, News18 television network reported him as saying. For Islamic groups, the opposition, rights activists and others in India, the new law is seen as part of Modi’s Hindu-nationalist agenda to marginalise India’s 200 million Muslims. He denies the allegation. Rights groups and a Muslim political party are challenging the law in the Supreme Court, arguing that it is against the constitution and India’s secular traditions.

AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE...

L-R: Publisher/Organiser, Air Transport Industry Awards, Prince Supo Atobatele; MD/CEO, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Capt. Fola Akinkuotu; Head Markrting, Central & West Africa, Arik Air, Mr. Andrew Odion and Business Head, West and Central Africa, Mr. Sylvester Egogo, being presented the Most Punctual Airline of the Year 2019 Award on Arik Air, at Airport Road, Lagos... weekend KOLAWOLE ALLI

G5 Sahel Leaders to Meet After Deadly Niger Attack G5 Sahel leaders met Sunday for an emergency summit in Niger to coordinate their response to a Jihadist attack on an army camp that killed 71 military personnel, Mali and Niger said. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the assault, in which hundreds of jihadists on Tuesday attacked the camp near the border with Mali with shells and mortars. “Yesterday our neighbour Niger buried 71 of its soldiers who died by the

bullets of those who want to spread chaos,” Mali President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita told an audience in Bamako on Saturday. “We will not fail in our solidarity with Niger and tomorrow my brothers of the G5 Sahel and I will go to Niamey and we will consult together,” he said. The G5 Sahel, an anti-jihadist task force, comprises Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Mauritania, and Chad. The attack in Inates in the western Tillaberi

region was the deadliest on Niger ’s military since Islamist militant violence began to spill over from neighbouring Mali in 2015, and dealt a blow to efforts to roll back jihadism in the Sahel. Nigerien President Mahamadou Issoufou raced back in the night from a security and development conference in Egypt to chair a meeting of the National Security Council in Niamey. Three days of national mourning were declared. Militant violence has

spread across the vast Sahel region, especially in Burkina Faso and Niger, after it began when armed Islamists revolted in northern Mali in 2012. Tu e s d a y ’ s attack p ro m p t e d F re n c h P re s i d e n t Emmanuel M a c ro n to postpone a meeting scheduled for next week in the southwestern F re n c h t o w n o f P a u , w h e re h e a n d f i v e p re s i d e n t s f ro m t he Sahel were due to discuss security in the region.

Miss Jamaica Crowned Miss World 2019 Toni-Ann Singh has won the 69th Miss World beauty pageant. It’s the first time in history that black women hold the titles for Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, Miss America, Miss Universe and Miss World. The 23-year-old student was born in St Thomas, Jamaica, and plans to study medicine and become

a doctor. She tweeted on Saturday: “Please know that you are worthy and capable of achieving your dreams... you have a purpose.” Toni-Ann impressed judges at the event in ExCel London after singing Whitney Houston’s I Have Nothing, and answering a variety of questions. She said: “This feels like

a dream, I’m so grateful.” “Whatever it is you see in me, thank you. I’m ready to get to work.” She beat 111 other contestants representing different countries, to be the fourth Jamaican winner of the title since the competition began. When asked by judge Piers Morgan if she would consider a singing career,

she said: “If the door is open I’ll walk through it.” The runners up included Ophély Mézino from France and Suman Rao from India. One moment that caught people’s attention online was Miss Nigeria’s reaction to Toni-Ann’s win. Nyekachi Douglas, who placed fifth, jumped and screamed with Joy when the winner was announced.

UN Chief Expresses Reservation over Climate Talks UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Sunday he was “disappointed” by the results of a major UN climate summit in Madrid, calling it a missed opportunity to

tackle the global warming crisis. Guterres issued the statement as the COP25 concluded its marathon meeting voicing “the urgent

need” for new carbon-cutting commitments but falling well short of what was needed. “I am disappointed with the results of COP25,” Guterres said. “The

international community lost an important opportunity to show increased ambition on mitigation, adaptation and finance to tackle the climate crisis.”

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MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWSXTRA

Lagos to Unveil Firms for Construction of Fourth Mainland Bridge Lagos State Government yesterday gave account of the progress recorded in the last 200 days of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration. The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, during an interactive session with journalists said the state government will be hosting a live ceremony on

Wednesday, to open the bids from prospective firms that expressed interests in the construction of the Fourth Mainland Bridge. Omotoso added that “the government will be announcing the bids at the ceremony, which will officially set process in motion to realise the project.” He added that local and international construction giants

OAU Lecturer Slumps, Dies A senior lecturer of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife in Osun State, Dr. Victoria Oluwaremilekun Adeniyi, slumped and died yesterday morning. Adeniyi, who was said not to have shown any sign of sickness, reportedly slumped around 11a.m. in her residence. According to a source in the university, one of the children of the deceased informed a colleague, who in turn brought the news to the notice of the university authorities. Her death came less than 24 hours a Professor of Paediatrics at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ife Jerome Elusiyan, was shot dead

by unknown gun men along Benin-Ekpoma road in Edo State. According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the OAU, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, the deceased, an Acting Head of Department of Dramatic Arts of the university, directed this year’s OAU convocation play which was staged last Saturday. The statement read in part: “She was part of the academic procession of the grand finale of the university’s 44th convocation. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Eyitope Ogunbodede had visited the university’s Teaching Hospital and directed that necessary papers be filled for the conduct of a post mortem.”

expressed interest in the construction of the 37-Kilometre-long fourth Mainland bridge. He said Lagos State Government had sustained its “aggressive response” to rehabilitating bad roads across the metropolis to ease vehicular movement, noting that about 116 deplorable highways were being fixed by eight construction firms and the Public Works Corporation. The Sanwo-Olu administration, Omotoso said, is deploying Public Infrastructure Improvement Partnership (PIIP) as a strategy to improve the state’s infrastructure by

signing agreements with banks and other private institutions to embark on rehabilitation of adopted roads as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). He said: “I boldly state, here, that the THEMES Agenda of the SanwoOlu Government is on course and will be achieved. The speed of projects implementation has now increased, especially since the last 100 days. The intensity is going according to the plan, which is to apply the right treatment at the right time to achieve the desired level of service. “The government is leveraging

the private sector, which controls about 80 per cent of the State’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), as crucial in the government’s drive to bridging the infrastructure gap and building the smart city of our dream. Access Bank is partnering with the State Government in the upgrading of a network of roads in Oniru under PIIP arrangement. “To further bring relief to our people, we will be setting the process in place for the construction of Fourth Mainland Bridge. Next Wednesday is the final day for the submission of

Expression of Interest; we will be unveiling the process that will lead to the realisation of the project on day.” Omotoso said the government had almost doubled the resources committed to education and healthcare to boost human capital. Apart from the 149-bed space Maternal and Childcare Centre (MCC) completed in Alimosho, the Commissioner said the Sanwo-Olu administration would be delivering two additional MCCs in Badagry and Epe in the coming weeks.

Appointment of Technical Assistants Tears House Committee on Public IN THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS... Accounts Apart L-R: Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu; wife of Ogun State House of Assembly Speaker, Mrs. Victoria Oluomo; her Adedayo Akinwale ín Abuja The unilateral appointment of two Technical Assistants by the Clerk of the House Committee on Public Accounts has created disaffection among the members of the committee. The Clerk of the committee, Mr. Usman Ibrahim, had in letters dated October 4, 2019, announced the appointments of the two Technical Assistants, namely: Mr. Seidu Amodu and Mr. John Ogidi. But other members of the committee frowned at the development, describing the action of the Clerk as absolute disregard for the parliament and the National Assembly bureaucracy. To this end, the aggrieved members have vowed to investigate on whose authority such appointments were made and for what purposes since such had never happened in the previous sessions. The copies of the two letters of appointments made available to journalists yesterday, read: “Following our earlier discussion on the above subject matter, I wish to convey the approval of the Department for your engagement as Technical Assistant to the Committee, commencing 23rd October, 2019 and subject to renewal after two years “I wish to inform you that your schedule of duties include, analysing MDA’s responses to Auditor-General’s reports prior to the sessions and making recommendations, taking of minutes of Hearings/Meetings, participating in report writing and any other duties as may be assigned by the Head of Department.” The letters also requested

the appointees to report to the Head of Department for further instructions. When contacted, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Wole Oke, denied knowledge of the appointments and also declined further comments on the issue. However, a member of the committee who pleaded anonymity argued that the Clerk lacked the power to make appointment unilaterally under any circumstances. According to him, “The powers to appoint staff into any Committee is vested in the National Assembly Service Commission in the first instance while the powers to deploy staff is vested strictly on the Clerk of the House of Representatives.” The lawmaker noted that even the National Assembly Act setting up the Committee does not confer such enormous power on the Clerk to the National Assembly to appoint technical assistants to the statutory or standing Committees He added: “So, on whose authority does the Clerk appoints the two young men we suddenly met at the hearing? I can’t recall that the Chairman discussed such appointments with us at any forum.” The lawmaker stressed that National Assembly bureaucracy has adequate manpower to carry out such duties. He wondered why the Clerk would appoint external people into such a sensitive Committee handling sensitive investigations, saying, “this is very strange and shocking to us, we will have to raise the issue at our next sitting to find out certain things and from there we will take up the matter with Clerk to the National Assembly”.

husband, Hon Kunle Oluomo; Mrs. Bola Obasanjo; former President Olusegun Obasanjo; Ogun State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Noimot SalakoOyedele; and Governor Dapo Abiodun, during Ogun State Christmas Carol and Service of Nine Lessons in Abeokuta ... yesterday

Boko Haram Kills 19 Fulani Herdsmen Boko Haram jihadists have reportedly killed 19 cattle herders. Fulani herders were said to have pursued Boko Haram, sparking a fierce gunfight outside Fuhe village, near Ngala close to the border with

Cameroon. “The insurgents killed 19 of the herdsmen in the fight,” anti-jihadist militia leader, Umar Kachalla reportedly said. According to Kachalla, the bodies of the slain herders were brought to the police

by militiamen. The herders had earlier repelled an attack by Boko Haram fighters who invaded the village to steal livestock, killing one of the militants. The herders were said to have pursued the jihadists

but were subdued by the better-armed Boko Haram terrorists. The Jihadists were said to have returned to Fuhe village and burnt homes and food supplies while herds fled.

Emirate Council Dismisses Two District Heads for Disloyalty in Kano The Karaye Emirate Council in Kano State has dismissed District Head of Kiru, Alhaji Ibrahim Hamza and that of Rimin-Gado, Alhaji Shehu Muhammad, for disloyalty. The council made the resolution during its second meeting presided over by the Emir of Karaye, Dr

Ibrahim Abubakar II at his palace in Karaye. This was contained in a statement by the Information Officer of Karaye Emirate Council, Alhaji Haruna Gunduwawa yesterday in Kano. “The council has approved the appointment of Alhaji Auwalu

Ahmad as District Head of Rimin Gado, Magajin Rafin Karaye, as District Head of Kiru and Alhaji Garba Alhaji as Dan Madamjn Karaye,” he said. Gunduwawa said the council has also approved the appointment of Malam Shehu Ahmed as District Head of Karaye

among others. “The council congratulated the new District Heads and prayed for Allah’s guidance in course of discharging their duties. “The meeting was attended by chairmen of local government areas in the emirate and other members.

ACF Condemns Killing of Aid Workers by Boko Haram The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has condemned in strong terms the killing of aid workers by Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State. The aid workers were abducted by terrorists in July 2019 on their way to a remote community in the North-east to provide humanitarian support to victims of Boko Haram violence. This is contained in a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the Forum, Alhaji Muhammad Ibrahim and issued to journalists in Kaduna State yesterday. He said ACF was shocked and saddened by the sad

news of yet another killing of four aid workers, including a woman by the Boko Haram terrorists in Borno. “It would be recalled that sometimes last year that the two female aid workers with International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) were abducted by the terrorists during an attack on the military base in Rann, Borno State, “They were subsequently executed by the terrorists on the grounds that the federal government failed to meet up some of their demands,” Ibrahim said. He said the recent action of the terrorists to say the

least was callous, barbaric and inhuman and totally against the tenets of Islam and humanity. According to him, the killing is clear desecration of Islam which preaches sacred inviolability of the individual. “The federal government’s assurances that it has been working with some friendly countries and other international organisations to save the lives of the innocent aid workers and other kidnapped female students have not yielded the desired result. The Forum, therefore, urged the federal government to review its negotiation strategy

with the terrorists and ensure that all kidnapped persons still in the captivity of the Boko Haram including Leah Sharibu and the Chibok girls are rescued and released to their families. “ACF urges the federal government to intensify its rescue operations in order to assuage the fears of Nigerians of what may happen to those still in captivity. “ACF extends its condolences to the families of who were brutally executed by the terrorists for serving humanity and equally commiserates with the families of those still in captivity,” he added.

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MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS XTRA

Police Arrest Six for Murder, Illegal Possession of Firearms Chiamaka Ozulumba The Lagos State Police Command has arrested six suspects, including one Amos Ekuma for killing a dry cleaner simply identified as ‘actor’ in Ikorodu. According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bala Elkana, the suspect had hit the deceased with an iron rod on the head during an altercation. He said: “The incident happened along Sabo road by Kokoro Abu Ikorodu, when Ekuma had an argument with the dry cleaner beside his shop. “In his confessional statement, he said the dry cleaner attacked him with iron rod as a result of an argument that ensued between

them earlier in the day that was resolved by neighbours. “That when he pushed him, the said actor fell down and was rushed to Ikorodu General Hospital for treatment but died while on admission. “ Noting that the corpse was deposited in the mortuary for autopsy, the PRO said the suspect was still in police custody as discreet investigation by homicide detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba, continued. In another development, three suspected notorious cultists were arrested for killing one Enoch Obaro and dismembered his body before disposing it in the bush. According to the police

spokesman, the one Yemisi Obaro had reported at Agbowa Police Station that her husband, Enoch Obaro left home in the morning and did not return and all efforts made in tracing his location proved abortive. Elkana said: “Messages were sent to all police stations across the state through the Police Control Room to help in finding the missing person. On December 8, the police received a call that the remains of the missing person was sighted at an isolated bushy area at Fadayin junction, Imota,

Ikorodu. “A team of homicide detectives was drafted to the scene and the decomposing body of the deceased person was evacuated for autopsy. The corpse was mutilated with the two hands severed and a leg cut off. “Expended cartridges and broken bricks were equally recovered at the scene. Three suspects were arrested in connection with the murder. They are members of Aiye confraternity who were on police wanted list for various offences ranging from

armed robbery, violent attacks, cultism and land grabbing.” In another development, Elkana said one Ayanda Yemi reported at Elemero Police Station that three armed robbers invaded his house and locked them inside a room. The victim said he was tied him up and disposed of his techno phone and car key, prompting him to raise an alarm which attracted neighbours. One of the suspects, Ibrahim Hassan was instantly arrested while the remaining two escaped. Elkana said the detectives

conducted a thorough and painstaking investigation and finally arrested the two fleeing suspects. Meanwhile, the command also arrested one Liasu Raji, a security guard attached to Luri Filling Station, for unlawful possession of firearms at Morogbo. The spokesman said the suspect was arrested with one English pump action and one single barrel riffle with ten rounds of live cartridges, adding that investigation is ongoing, and the suspect will be charged to court.

We Can’t be Intimidated to Enroll in IPPIS, Says UNIBEN ASUU Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Benin (UNIBEN) chapter, has reiterated its unequivocal rejection of Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), vowing that no amount of threat or blackmail would sway its resolve. It said its position was in support of the decision taken at the end of the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the union held a few days earlier. UNIBEN ASUU made the declaration in a statement yesterday by its Chairman and Secretary, Dr. Monday Omoregie and Dr. F.C. Amaechina respectively, saying it’s disturbed “by the continuing charade of the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation(OAGF) aimed at forcibly implementing the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System(IPPIS) in Nigeria federal universities.” “We have equally come to the conclusion that it is the federal government’s ploy to renege on its agreement with our union in furtherance of its intent on abdicating its duty and responsibility to adequately fund education in Nigeria. “In particular, we note that government is scheming to abandon the long overdue renegotiation of the ASUU-FGN

2009 Agreement and also avoid fully honouring the February 2019 Memorandum of Action (MoA) it freely signed with ASUU. “And, for the umpteenth time, we restate our unequivocal rejection of IPPIS and vow that no amount of threat or blackmail will sway our resolve,” the statement added. Based on this, ASUU said it has directed its members not to enrol into IPPIS. Also, it unanimously aligned itself with the NEC declaration to call out its members on a nationwide strike if any member of the union is victimised for refusal to enrol into the IPPIS platform in the spirit of “an injury to one is an injury to all.” Furthermore, UNIBEN said it identified with the decision of ASUU NEC to engage the federal government on the outstanding issues of the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement and the February 2019 MoA and has resolved to comply fully if ASUU is compelled to declare a nationwide strike should the federal government renege on the full implementation of any aspect of both the agreement and the MoA. It called on all and sundry to join forces with ASUU “to salvage this nation from the stranglehold of this regime of insensitive leadership.”

Our Tenure Extends to 2021, Says Ohanaeze Executive Ohanaeze Ndigbo has warned those trying to stampede the present executive of organisation to desist from their pranks. The apex Igbo organisation regretted that the mischief makers were “going about claiming that the National election of Ohanaeze Ndigbo would hold in January, 2020” and warned them to desist from such propaganda. The deputy spokesman of the organisation, Chuks Ibegbu in a statement noted that the tenure of the Nnia Nwodo-led regime would end in January 2021 and not 2020. He accused “desperadoes” and those who wish to use the office for

personal gains as propagating the rumour.” He promised that when the tenure of the present Ohanaeze executive is due to end, the world would be told and asked the desperadoes trying to cause confusion over the matter to be careful. Ibegbu noted that for now the Nwodo-led regime is trying to reposition Ndigbo within the Nigerian polity. The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu had on Saturday predicted that Chief Nnia Nwodo would cease to the President general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo before December 31.

YOU ARE WELCOME ON BOARD...

L-R: Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Chairman, Governing Council, College of Agriculture, Isan-Ekiti, Mr. Jide Arowosafe; and a Member of the Council, Mr. Nuradin Osman, during the inauguration of the council, at the Governor’s Office, in Ado -Ekiti... weekend

Gunmen Kill Security Guard in Ekiti Victor Ogunje in Ado-Ekiti There was panic at a section of Ikere-Ekiti, the second largest town in Ekiti State on Saturday as some unknown gunmen killed a middle aged vigilante working with a company in the town. It was reliably gathered that the incident occurred at night at a quarry located along Ikere-Iju-Akure road, when the gun-wielding bandits allegedly invaded the firm to steal some valuables. About three vigilante men were stationed at the quarry site to prevent stealing of some property of the company and had

been stationed in the place for more than six months. Narrating his ordeal, one of the night guards, who craved anonymity, but was lucky to have escaped from the scene, said the assailants came at the dead of the night. He said: “The alleged robbers shot the leader of the team from the window while the other one was tied with rope. “Electric cables and other facilities in the quarry were carted away by the suspected robbers.” When contacted the Commandant of the Vigilante Group in Ekiti State, Mr. Akin Olounloni, confirmed the incident,

but claimed that the vigilante was killed by some suspected cultists. Olounloni explained that “the deceased had earlier called him to report that some cultists threatened to kill him after he reprimanded them.” “When he called me, I told him to report the case to the police in Ikere, he went there, the boys were invited and the issue was settled but only for me to receive a call that the man was killed overnight,” he added. According to him, the suspected cultists have been arrested and presently with the State Anti-Robbery Squad

(SARS). The Public Relations Officer, Ekiti State Police Command, Mr. Sunday Abutu, could not be reached for comment, as his mobile phone number was switched off. But SARS’ Commander in Ekiti State, Mr. Marcus Ogundola, confirmed that three suspects have been arrested in connection with the crime. “We have arrested three suspects but investigation is still ongoing. We cannot say for now whether they were the real perpetrators, but we are thoroughly digging into the killing,” he said.

Gas Explosion Kills Eight Family Members in Katsina Francis Sardauna in Katsina Tragedy has struck out in Dan-Musa, the headquarters of Dan-Musa Local Government Area of Katsina State, following a gas explosion that killed eight family members in the area. It was gathered that property worth millions of naira were also destroyed as the gas explosion set ablaze

the entire house, with family members still counting their losses. The incident, according to eyewitness, occurred at about 5. 32 p.m on Saturday when one of the deceased was cooking in the house. Investigation further revealed that one of the deceased persons was making a phone call in the kitchen, which apparently triggered the explosion.

An eyewitness, Nura Sani told THISDAY on Sunday that three married women and their five children were killed during the incident as efforts by neighbours to open the house gate for rescue went futile. “Their remains were buried yesterday (Saturday) according to Islamic rites, and we pray that Allah should grant their souls eternal rest”.

One of the victims identified as Maryam Shuaibu was said to have visited the town from Abuja to attend a wedding ceremony and staying in the house with the other deceased persons who were her friends. The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Gambo Isah has also confirmed the scenario saying “it is true”.

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We ‘II Make Farming Mainstay of Ekiti’s Economy, Says Fayemi Victor Ogunje in Ado-Ekiti Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, weekend said his administration was making concerted efforts to make commercial agriculture the mainstay of the state’s economy hence the decision to establish the College of Agriculture and Technology in Isan-Ekiti. The governor stated this in Ado-Ekiti while inaugurating the governing council of the college, saying the state government under his watch was “walking the talk in the agriculture sector” with the aim of ensuring food security and financially empowering Ekiti farmers. Fayemi stated that the quest to restore agriculture to its pride of place in Ekiti State has necessitated a number of reforms and initiatives such as developing partnership with private sectors such as Promasidor and Dangote Farms to boost the agric sector in the state. The governor explained that the essence of the College of Agriculture was to train people in agricultural best practices through modern technology with an expectation that the products of the college would, in turn, utilise their acquired knowledge and skills in the agriculture and technology base of the state. “The dream and aspiration

to have a College of Agriculture and Technology in our dear state has been resuscitated and this has been made possible through the Re-enactment Act of 2019 which resuscitated the school. It gladdens my heart that the college commenced operation on September 4, 2019 and it is gradually afoot with remarkable progress. “It is a common knowledge that Ekiti is an agrarian state. Therefore, it is not by happenstance that agriculture and rural development is one of the five pillars of our administration. As a government, we are walking the talk in the agriculture sector with the aim of ensuring food security and financially empowering our farmers,” he said. While charging the pioneer governing council members to demonstrate creativity and commitment that would add value to the college, Fayemi urged them to discharge their duties with all sense of “responsibility, diligence, fairness and honesty” as their appointment was a call to service and not “a call to keep up appearances at the detriment of the college and the state.” Meanwhile, a member the House of Representatives, Hon. Wumi Ogunlola, has called for a huge investment in agriculture to attract productive population and reduce the scourges of insecurity

and cybercrime being perpetrated by Nigerian youths. The lawmaker called on the federal government to as a matter of urgency declare a state of emergency in the agricultural sector, to allow for more funding that would banish unemployment and poverty among youths. Ogunlola, who represents Ekiti West Federal Constituency 11 in the National Assembly, stated

that the present agricultural practice, which relies on traditional implements and annual rainfall, is not profitable and could not encourage the Nigerian youth to engage in farming. The lawmaker spoke in Aramoko Ekiti on Saturday while empowering farmers from the 33 wards of Ekiti West, Efon and Ijero local government areas of the state, which are the components

of her constituency. She said: “If the federal government is serious about creating employments through agriculture, then it must make farming attractive to the Nigerian youths. The government should increase budgetary allocations to the agric sector and then encourage modern mechanised farming. “We cannot expect our youths

to embrace farming if, they are going to use the same tools that were used by their grandfathers. These are the people whose parents sent to school because they wanted to escape farming.” The farmers who came from, Ijero, Efon and Ekiti West local government areas were empowered with cash and various farm tools like, spraying machine, 50kg bags of fertilisers, insecticides and herbicides.

FG Targets $5bn HONOURING ACHIEVERS…. L-R: Oyo State Governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde; wife of former Governor of Lagos State, Mrs Abimbola Fashola; and Dr. Lekan Are at the Ibadan Foundation 2019 Annual Awards held at Ibadan…yesterday Annually in Global Market from Soyabeans FCTA Prioritises Satellite Towns’ Devt, Budgets George Okoh in Makurdi Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC) said it’s targeting $5 billion of $100 billion annually at the global market from soybeans. NEPC Executive Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Olusegun Awolowo, disclosed this at the weekend during the Implementation of Soya Beans Value under the One-State-OneProduct Initiative of the Zero Oil Plan and presentation of Threshing Machines/Equipment for farmers’ cooperative groups held in Makurdi, Benue State capital. Awolowo, who was represented by Deputy Director, Policy and Strategy, Mr. Akintunde Folorunso, stressed the need to explore the inherent potentials presented by the Zero Oil Plan for export market. According to him, the Zero Oil Plan was in line with the Federal Government Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), a strategy for achieving sustainable growth and economic recovery in the short-term with structural reforms at diversifying the economy over the medium to long term. “The Zero Oil Plan is therefore, captured in the ERGP document as a new direction for Nigeria to build an economy that does not depend on foreign exchange from crude oil for improved public finances,” Awolowo said. He explained that the strategic component of the Zero Oil Plan was the One-State-One-Product Initiative whereby each state chose

a product and an alternate one in which it has comparative and competitive advantage in cultivation, production and processing, adding that this was to ensure that the states and grassroots are linked with the national export value chain in order to facilitate Nigeria’s economic growth through jobs creation and families ‘empowerment. “We have created huge potentials to provide support for stakeholders in the subsector. Having built the capacity for farmers and processors on modern cultivation techniques for increased production and yields and good agricultural practices in the post-harvest handling of soya beans, NEPC is taking on more steps to provide equipment for farmers for increased production and productivity, ensure ease of processing with minimal labour and for having wholesome products for the export market,” NEPC boss said. Trade Adviser, NEPC Benue State, Annaibem Eggon, who was represented by the Principal Trade Promotion Officer, Mrs. Diana Angou, said the state accounted for over 65 per cent of the nation’s output in soya beans. She also noted that soya beans production holds the greatest potential for the nation’s economic growth, regretting that lack of knowledge in production of the crop, poor pre-harvesting method, and access to finances inhibits quality improvement in Soya bean production in the state.

N232bn for 2020 Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has proposed to commit N33.7 billion on the provision of critical infrastructure in all its satellite towns next. This budgetary item was emphasised when the Minister of FCT, Mohammed Musa Bello, presented a N232 billion statutory budget for 2020 to the National Assembly. The Satellite Towns to receive attention include Kubwa, Karshi, Kabusa, Bwari, Kuje, Kusaki, Dobi, Anagada, Gosa, Abuja North-west and Abuja South-west. The allocation would open up

and develop the Satellite Towns by providing the basic amenities which would further reduce the pressure already existing in the capital city. FCTA, in a statement by its spokesman, Anthony Ogunleye, said Satellite Town Development Agency (STDA) would spend N33.7 billion from the sum of N121. 9 billion proposed for capital expenditure in the budget. Of that amount, the FCTA would dedicate N11.5 billion to the completion of the Abuja Light Rail project and other counterpart funded related projects aimed at enhancing socio-economic activities in the Territory. Other Secretariats,

Departments and Agencies (SDAs) got N47.9 billion for their capital expenditure to address critical areas like the ongoing road construction, water treatment plants and related facilities as well as a few new projects. The breakdown of the FCT statutory budget of N232 billion indicated that a sum of N53.8 billion (23.15 per cent) was budgeted as personnel cost; N57 billion (24.52 per cent), as overhead cost; and a proposed capital expenditure of N121.9 billion (52.35 per cent) as capital expenditure. The proposal also indicated reductions in personnel and

overhead costs, with N53.8 billion proposed in the 2020 budget as against the N55.5 billion in 2019 for personnel and N57 billion as against N57.6 billion in 2019, for overhead. The statement added that the figures represented a two per cent and 0.93 per cent decrease respectively. FCTA explained that it would spend N6.1 billion on the rehabilitation, expansion, extension and construction of six major roads, including the Outer Southern Expressway, Inner Southern Expressway, Road B6, B12, Circle Road and Abuja Central Area.

Nigeria Will Become Self-sufficient in Sugar Production Soon, Says Minister Daji Sani in Yola Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Chief Adeniyi Adebayo, has expressed optimism that Nigeria would soon become self-sufficient in sugar production. Adabayo made the disclosure shortly after touring round tens of thousands acres of sugar cane plantation of Savannah Sugar Company Limited (SSCL) over the weekend in Numan Local Government Area of Adamawa State. The minister was accompanied

by the President of Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who owned the company, top executives of Dangote Group and management staff of the SSCL. He said the sugar cane plantation was geared towards increasing sugar production to make Nigeria self-sufficient in sugar production and create jobs opportunities for Nigerian youths. Adabayo explained that he was impressed by what he saw, adding that this would support the federal government’s desire

to stop the importation of sugar into the country “The sugar production undertaking here is a huge one. It gives me much hope that as a country, Nigeria has moved far towards producing all its sugar needs,” he said. Speaking to journalists at the factory, Dangote said he has doubled the sugar cane farm with the aim of increasing the production of sugar to meet up with the demands of sugar consumption in the country. He added that he took the minister to his sugar establishment

to show him the capacities and potentials of the group to meet the country’s demands of sugar consumption. Savannah Sugar Company is located on 32,000 hectares of land in the swampy threshold of Numan, headquarters of Numan Local GovernmentArea ofAdamawa State. The complex has a milling capacity of 50,000 tonnes of sugar per annum, with 700 permanent staff and thousands of part-time and seasonal workers to man the mills and sugarcane cultivation.

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Road Maintenance: Senate Moves to Establish Federal Road Authority Deji Elumoye in Abuja The Senate has commenced moves to establish a Federal Road Authority (FRA) for the maintenance of the over 36,000 federal roads across the country. Chairman of the Senate committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Senator Gershom Bassey, who

disclosed this at the weekend said a bill to that effect is already before the upper chamber for necessary legislative action. According to him, the new legislation that the Senate is working on now seeks to move road construction and maintenance off the federal budget and encourage the private sector participation.

Oluwo Ends Marriage with Jamaican Wife The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, and his Jamaican wife, Chanel Chin, have ended their marriage. The marriage between the royal father and the Jamaican produced a son named Oduduwa. A statement by Oluwo’s Press Secretary, Alli Ibrahim, issued yesterday, said the couple ended the marriage “after irreconcilable differences.” The statement from Oluwo’s palace reads, in part, “This is to inform the general public, most

especially friends and associates of the Oluwo of Iwoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, Telu I, that Ms Chanel Chin is an ex-queen of his majesty. “This information is necessary for the attention of the general public to avoid representation on proxy or accordance of respect attached to the sacred stool of Oluwo to her. “For personal irreconcilable differences, Chanel Chin ceased to be his Majesty’s queen.”

“There is no rocket science here. This idea has been working in other parts of the world and it cannot be different in Nigeria. Money will automatically flow into our roads because the private sector will be willing and ready to invest since they know it’s a thriving business and they would recoup their money. “We have seen now that funding roads from annual budgets is not the best way to go because it is not working. We must find a solution”. Bassey stressed that the bill has made provisions for the creation of the Federal Road Authority which will absolve FERMA.

“FRA will be owners of the roads with full authority to deliver good roads by whatever means, the second is the Infrastructure fund. There will be contributions from the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) which has a template for sharing the Petroleum Fund Tax and the five per cent payment to FERMA is there. He also disclosed that the Senate had mandated its Committees on FERMA, National Planning and Petroleum Resources ( Downstream), to look into why the PPPRA was not remitting the money due to FERMA from the Petroleum Fund Tax.

While expressing hope that by the time Senate resumes plenary in January, the joint committee’s report will be ready, the legislator stated that the PPPRA is supposed to be remitting five per cent to FERMA and states road maintenance agencies as stipulated in the FERMA Act (As Amended) in 2007. “FERMA looks after 36, 000 kilometres of roads across the country while the rest are state roads. The essence of the five per cent is to ensure that the roads are maintained regularly. The PPPRA has not remitted any amount to FERMA or to the state agencied since the law was signed.

“The last figure we had when we started our investigation was that the unremitted funds had accumulated to N870 billion which is due to both FERMA and the state roads agencies. The money would have gone a long way to fixing the deplorable roads in Nigeria and this has created incalculable losses including accidents, kidnapping, banditry and other social ills. It is unfortunate that both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress governments since 2007 till date have ignored the legislation which would have instil sanity to our roads.

Six Discos Comply with Remittance Directive The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) said six out of eight Power Distribution Companies (Discos) have complied or substantially complied with the approved minimum remittance threshold in the Order for July to September 2019. NERC, which is the regulator of the industry, confirmed the development in a notice sent to the affected companies and obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos yesterday. The notice dated December 12 was signed by Commissioner, Legal Licensing and Compliance, NERC, Mr. Dafe Akpeneye. It said only Enugu Electricity Distribution Company Plc and Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company Plc failed to comply with the remittance directive in the period under review. NAN reported that NERC had on November 5 served notice to eight Discos of its intention to cancel their licences for failure to meet their obligated remittance to the market. “The Commission has reasonable cause to believe that the Discos listed below have breached the provisions of the Electric Power Sector Reform Act, terms and conditions of their respective distribution licences and the 2016 – 2018 Minor Review of the Multi Year Tariff Order (MYTO) and Minor Remittance Order for the year 2019. “The affected Discos include the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company Plc, Benin Electricity Distribution Company Plc, Enugu Electricity Distribution Company Plc and Ikeja Electric Plc. “Others are Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company Plc, Kano Electricity Distribution Company Plc, Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company Plc and Yola Electricity Distribution Company,” it said.

However, NERC said the affected Discos were given till December 9 to show cause in writing as to why their licences should not be withdrawn. According to NERC, all eight Discos met the deadline for the submission of written responses showing cause against the cancellation notice and these responses have been filed at the commission. NERC said: “The remittance to Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET) Plc by the Discos to date indicates that six out of the eight Discos (AEDC, BEDC, IE, KEDCO, YEDC and KAEDCO) met the expected minimum remittance thresholds for the three months of July to September 2019. “Two out of the eight Discos (EEDC and PHEDC) did not meet the expected minimum remittance thresholds for any of the three months of July to September 2019. “The commission reiterates that the failure of Discos to comply with expected minimum remittance threshold in the order exposes Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) to systemic risk. “It threatens the sustainability of other parts of the value chain and the ability to improve services to customers.” The commission said consequently, a public hearing would be held by NERC on December 19 on the issues affecting the two non-compliant Discos in line with Section 41 of Electric Power Sector Reform Act and Section 17 of the Business Rules. NERC said in recognition of the “good faith” demonstrated by the six other Discos, the commission and their management would meet on December 20 to address issues concerning them instead of a public hearing.

SPECIAL THANKSGIVING…

L-R: Business mogul, Prince Arthur Eze; Chief Tony Eze; Spiritual Director, Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria (AMEN), Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka; Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State; and state Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Priscilla Ngozi Emehelu, when Ugwuanyi offered a special thanksgiving to God for his electoral victory during the last general election, at the Adoration Permanent Site, Umuchigbo Iji-Nike, Enugu… yesterday.

Fayemi Commiserates with Mimiko over Mum’s Death Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti The Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has condoled with the immediate past Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, on the passing of his mother, Madam Muinat Mosekola Mimiko. Fayemi, in a personally signed condolence message to Dr. Mimiko, said he received the news of the death of the matriarch of the

Mimiko’s dynasty with shock and urged him to look at the bright side and celebrate the life and legacy of his late mother. He described the late Madam Mimiko as an amazing woman of substance, community leader and a lover of God and humanity. Fayemi urged the Mimikos family to be comforted by the fact that their late mother lived a great and impactful life. “No matter how old our parents

lived, we always wish they could stay a little longer. Regrettably, death is inevitable. No matter how much we love, cherish and appreciate our parents, it is their prayers to die before us. “Mama served God and humanity, and as God has permitted, she has finished her course and been called home to receive her crown of glory. “I have no doubt that mama’s contributions to the society will

continue to be referenced through your impacts and those of your siblings. She was an amazing woman of substance, a community leader and a lover of God and humanity. “On behalf of my wife, Bisi, the government and people of Ekiti State, I offer my heart felt commiserations to you and the family and pray for the repose of the soul of our dear mother,” Fayemi said.

TRCN Registers over 2m Qualified Teachers Kuni Tyessi in Abuja Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) has revealed that in its efforts to end quackery in the teaching profession, over two million qualified teachers for basic education have been registered by the council. Despite this feat, which has set in motion the council’s readiness to correct the notion of teaching being an all-comers affair, the recorded number of qualified teachers according to the council remains inadequate. Also, in ensuring that the qualified teachers live up to expectation and are equipped in not just what to teach, but in how to teach, the federal government has concluded plans towards

ensuring that every teacher is computer savvy in a project named “One teacher, one laptop project.” TRCN Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Josiah Ajiboye, who disclosed this weekend in Abuja, while emphasising that teaching is no longer a profession to be managed before better jobs come, said the era of using teaching as political patronage was over. He said with changing classroom dynamics, opportunities have been given to teachers with deficiencies to quickly correct and upgrade their certificates, as contrary to beliefs in some quarters; the exercise has not been designed to witch-hunt or make persons lose their jobs.

He said for teachers’ welfare, there’s a policy called “teacher career path policy” which will document teachers efforts with a bid to placing them on new career path which would be professionally fulfilling as already, the document has been approved by the National Education Council (NEC) at a ministerial session in Port Harcourt after passing several phases. He said: “Nigeria has over two million registered teachers and this is staggering and inadequate. The whole of Africa needs about seven million qualified teachers. You must have an educational qualification before you can qualify to write the exams. “We are set to removing quackery from the teaching

profession and with effect from January, the council will start monitoring and the aim is not to sack, but to sanitise the education system. It is to make sure that quackery is removed as they abound in all professions and to make sure that it is not an all-comers affair. “One teacher, one laptop project will commence soon. It is to be paid by instalment by the teachers. Other teachers’ welfare matters will be considered including training and retraining. Classroom dynamics are changing, hence the need for this. Teachers must be able to learn, relearn and unlearn. So, there will be digital literacy training for all teachers,” he added.

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Report: New Visa Policy May Contradict Roadmap on Border Security ONSA to present security document to public today

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja There are indications that the federal government’s new visa on arrival policy for Africa passport holders may significantly contradict the recommendations of the National Security Strategy (NSS) document recently launched by President Muhammadu Buhari as it relates to border security and Transnational Organised Crimes (TOC), THISDAY’s investigation has revealed. The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) is due to present the NSS document to the public today in Abuja. Buhari, at a summit in Egypt last week, had pledged free visa on arrival to Africans visiting Nigeria with effect from January 2020. He made the announcement during the Aswan Forum on peace and sustainable development. “We in Nigeria have already taken the strategic decision to bring down barriers that have hindered the free movement of our people within the continent by introducing the issuance of visa at the point of entry into Nigeria to all persons holding passports of African countries with effect from January 2020. “We should furthermore promote free trade within and amongst Africa and Africans especially now that we have launched the African Free Trade Area Agreement,” he said. The new visa policy, however, contradicts the NSS, which recommended the closure of the country’s borders, as part of the security measures. Nigeria’s borders with neighbouring West African countries have remained shut for more than three months owing to the activities of smugglers, whom government said undermined the country’s economy. The National Security Strategy (NSS) 2019, which will be presented to the public today by the ONSA states that “Nigeria’s geostrategic environment is characteried by the increasing influence of international terrorist networks, the defeat of

ISIS in Syria and the dispersal of combatants to other conflict zones, the frailty of nations in the region, the influx of foreigners and threats in cyberspace” have all combined to raise the levels of insecurity in the country. The NSS, in decrying the country’s porous borders, said “Nigeria’s extensive land and maritime borders continue to be a major source of concern as they are largely porous and inadequately manned. This has aided irregular migrations and other transnational organised crimes. “In the East along the Nigeria/ Cameroon border, there has been an upsurge of refugees from the restive Cameroon Anglophone region crossing into Taraba, Benue, Cross River and Akwa Ibom States. Along the same axis, criminal gangs and pirates actively operate within the border areas. “In the North, cattle rustlers and bandits operate freely across the international borders contiguous to Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Adamawa and Taraba States. “Additionally, the porous border areas between Nigeria and Benin Republic in the South-west are known for smuggling vehicles and food commodities, which undermines our economy. “Tackling illicit cross border activities and strengthening border security are critical to addressing the threats of terrorism and transnational organised crime,” it stated. The document added that to achieve national security, government should “improve our overall resilience for internal security, we will strengthen security in specific environmental domains such as territorial, border, maritime, aviation, and national critical infrastructure security”. Concern has also been raised that the new visa policy is not in line with government’s decision to close the nation’s borders with neighbouring West African countries especially as it has to do with the ECOWAS protocol on free movement of people, goods

Babangida Hosts Former Senate President, David Mark in Minna Laleye Dipo in Minna Former Senate President, David Mark yesterday paid a private visit to former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd) at his Minna uphill residence in Niger State. Mark was accompanied on the visit by Senator Tunde Ogbeha and one other person whose identity could not be immediately ascertained. Mark came into Minna and the two others arrived the Niger State capital at about 2.30.p.m. and were received by some staff of the former military president. The trio were driven in one of the vehicles in Babangida’s house and arrived the residence at about 3.p.m. Mark went straight into the Babangida’s sitting room where

he met the former military president before they went into private discussion which lasted for about 30 minutes THISDAY learnt that Babangida and his guests also had lunch before the former senate president departed through the Minna airport. One of the aides of the former military president, Alhaji Mahmud Abdullahi told THISDAY that Babangida had been receiving calls since the “ fake news “ about his death was published. “I can tell you that he is hale and hearty and very cheerful” THISDAY also spoke with the General through the handset of Abdullahi during which the former Nigerian leader asked “where have you been hiding yourself?” Babangida sounded fine from the telephone discussion.

and services. Intelligence security sources told THISDAY that the new visa policy was at variance with the NSS and contradicted government’s position on border closure. “How do you reconcile the new visa policy of giving everybody visa and the fight against terrorism? Do you have the security background of those Africans?” “Does it not clash with the new defence strategy that emphasises tackling influx of undocumented migrants into Nigeria? Why do you give free visa to Africans and

shut out another part of Africa in the name of border closure? “ one of the sources said. However, the ComptrollerGeneral of Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Muhammad Babandede, said the new visa policy would not compromise national security, adding that the NIS would adopt high level of professionalism in implementing the policy. Speaking in Abuja at the weekend, the NIS boss said the agency would be professional in implementing the policy. “The visa on arrival at the point

of entry is an effort to accelerate African integration. Nigeria’s strategic decision is taken to bring down barriers that have hindered the free movement of our people within the continent by introducing the visa at the point of entry into Nigeria with effect from January 2020,” he stated. A statement issued by the agency said “the ComptrollerGeneral of Immigration is assuring Nigerians of the service’s commitment to ensuring high-level professional ethics in delivering the services without compromising national security.”

The president had earlier this month launched the National Security Strategy 2019 at the State House, Abuja. Buhari had expressed happiness that the National Security Strategy 2019 was a product of painstaking and rigorous deliberations by relevant stakeholders committed to the task of safeguarding the nation from internal and external threats. The ONSA will today in Abuja present the document to the public.

TAX REDUCTION ON THEIR MINDS...

L-R: Chairman, Developmental Association for Renewable Energies (DARE),Yahaya Ahmed, Executive Director, Keen and Care Initiative (KCT) Nigeria, Ms. Josephine Alabi; Executive Director, Environmental Rights Action (ERA),Dr.Uyi Ojo; and Director,National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN),Eguaoje Festus during a press briefing on reduction of tax on renewable energy products in Abuja...weekend.

Don’t Take Laws intoYour Hands, CNS Warns Naval Personnel Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, at the weekend warned naval personnel not to engage in unlawful acts as the yuletide approaches. The naval chief gave the warning at the end of the Fourth Quarter Route March at the Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja. He said naval personnel must not engage in acts that could bring Nigerian Navy to disrepute. Ibas, who was represented by

the Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral Beegroy Ibe-Enwo, said as the institution responsible for the country’s maritime domain and also a major contributor to the Gulf of Guinea maritime security arrangement as well as internal security duties, physical fitness is of essence. “I must encourage you not to engage in any acts of misdemeanour or take the laws into your hands that could bring the Nigerian navy to disrepute during this festive period and in

the course of your duty. “The Nigerian navy will continue to support you by way of providing all your needs to function optimally,” he said. He said the navy has introduced a new rule, the body max index, that required personnel to maintain an acceptable level of fitness. “Thus, exercise and physical training remains the bedrock of Naval personnel’s daily mental and physical readiness for the sea and ashore duties. “It is pertinent to state here that

the commitment of the Nigerian navy towards enhancing mental and physical fitness has yielded dividends as witnessed in the sterling contributions of the navy to national security, peace and prosperity,” he said. Ibas said it was “in recognition of this fact and the desire of the service to keep the personnel physically fit that the Route March among other events are sustained in the Nigerian navy schedule of events.”

Delta Agog with AZMAN’s Maiden Flight to Asaba Airport Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba The maiden flight of Azman Air into Asaba International Airport has been received with excitement in Delta State, especially within the government circles. The flight, which was a Boeing 737 with registration No 5N – AIS, was piloted by Captain Ibrahim Mamman. It touched down at the Asaba airport at exactly 4.25pm yesterday with the Managing Director of AZMAN Air, Dr. Faisal Abdulmunah, on board. The Delta State

Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, described the commencement of flight operation by Azman Air flight as one of the rewards of the development efforts of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. Aniagwu said the arrival of the airline was a testimony that the investment made by the governor to upgrade facilities in the airport was well made, adding that there are prospects for others airlines to join and increase the flight options to and from Asaba, The AZMAM team was welcomed to Asaba by Aniagwu; the Airport Manager,

Mr. Austin Ayemidejo; an Aide to the State Governor, Prof. Sylvester Monye and other Delta State’s government officials. According to Abdulmunah, Azman Air would operate four flights a week, to and fro, from Asaba to Abuja while Asaba to Lagos route would be serviced with two flights a week to and fro. He expressed delight at the airline’s commencement of operations in Delta State. Moreover, ARIK Air is expected to resume flights to Asaba on Wednesday. In addition, Peace Air and Overland had been operating

at the airport. Governor Okowa began to remodeling of Asaba Airport to meet international standard as soon he assumed office on May 29, 2019, following the downgrading of the airport by the Federal Aviation Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in April 2015. FAAN later gave the Asaba International Airport a clean bill of health. This enabled the airport to witness international flights in 2018, including an Air Egypt flight straight from Cairo as well chartered airlift of Nigeria’s Super Eagles football team to Johannesburg, South Africa.

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Obaseki, Emefiele to Launch N69bn Edo Oil Palm Programme Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, would on Tuesday launch Edo State Oil Palm Programme (ESOPP), a N69 billion intervention programme to rejuvenate the oil palm sector in the state for global competitiveness. The event, organised by Edo State Government, CBN and Plantation Owners Forum of Nigeria (POFON), would hold at Protea Hotel in Benin City, and provide a platform to engage with stakeholders in the oil palm business.

In a statement, Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, said the ESOPP was an innovative platform intended to harness the state’s rich oil palm heritage to diversify the local economy, create jobs, and increase productivity in a sustainable manner. He said a total of 120,000 hectares was planned for the programme, but the first phase would cover an area of 51,000 hectares, noting that funding from the CBN would constitute over 70 per cent of the intervention, which would

be targeted at estate owners and smallholder farmers, given at single-digit interest rate with 5-7 years moratorium. Some investors in the ESOPP expected at the parley include Dangote Dansa Farms; Bruk Plantations Edo Limited; Saro Africa; FDGB Group (Malaysians); Ella Lakes Plc; De United Foods Industries (Dufil); Platform Capital; WACOT Limited; TGI Group; A and Hatman Ltd; Saturn Farms (Nosak Group); Agro allied Business (FMN); Farmforte Agro Allied Solutions and Masini Limited.

Group Urges Soludo to Join Anambra Governorship Race David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka As 2021 approaches, the call on former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to contest the governorship seat of the state has heightened. A group, Soludo Support Group (SSG) in recent call asked the former CBN chief to ensure he considered the call on him to vie for the governorship seat of the state in 2021, as people of the state bestow so much hope in him to deliver the dividends of democracy. Hon. Obi Modilim (Ochije Awka), the coordinator of the group in Awka South Local

Government Area who spoke during a meeting, said there was urgent need to step up moves to ensure that Soludo agreed to contest in the coming election. Modilim said: “Soludo has the requisite tools to enhance the developmental strides of Anambra State and there is doubt about that. “We must step up our game and convince Soludo to contest. Once he accepts, the rest will be history because everyone in Nigeria knows the capacity of the man we are talking about.” He said with the inauguration of the Awka South chapter of the group, calls for redoubling of efforts in canvassing support

for Soludo. Also speaking, an executive member of All for Soludo Team (A4ST), another support group of the former CBN boss, Mazi Ejimofor, told THISDAY during a meeting of the group that Soludo was a grounded politician who is very well known in the grassroots. Ejimofor said: “An Igbo adage loosely translated in the English language talks says a cursory look at the king’s mouth rarely shows that it once suckled the mother’s breast. Most people don’t know that even at Prof Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s height, he is more of less a village boy who is very free with his people.

Association Holds Inaugural Lecture, Award Ceremony The Owa-Oyibu Elite Association will on December 21, 2019, hold its first inaugural lecture and award ceremony under the chairmanship of Hon. Hubert Obiaigwe. The event, THISDAY learnt, would take place at D’host Optimum Event Centre, Opposite Ika North East LGA Secretariat, Oyibu-Alero Road, Owa Oyibu, Delta State. According to a statement made available to THISDAY by the Secretary of the association, Ofebuzor Ndu Emmanuel, the occasion would be graced by many notable dignitaries, including the Obi of Owa Kingdom, Dr.

Emmanuel Efeizomor II; Hon Nduka Irabor, Maj-Gen E.O Usiade (rtd), Chief Lawrence Oshiegbu, Prof. Ignatius Njoseh, Mrs. Mabel Ojeh among many others. The statement, which noted that all sons and daughters of Owa-Oyibuhome and abroad are expected to participate at the inaugural lecture and award ceremony, also stated that the association is focused on harnessing the potential of Owa-Oyibu youths for the economic and political development of the traditional and political headquarters of Owa

kingdom, and also as an organ of enlightenment and vehicle for information and progress. The statement further noted that the association is aimed at enhancing the cultural, educational, civic and general well-being of its members. “The association will use the occasion to focus on the education of the people of our community about Owa culture and traditions. We will also involve our members in community development, charity as well as socio-economic growth of the town,” Emmanuel said in the statement.

Lucky Omoluwa Now UN Peace Ambassador The quest for peace in Nigeria got a boost with the appointment of leading philanthropist and broadcast technology investor, Sir Lucky Omoluwa as UN Peace Ambassador. His appointment was the highlight of the formal domestication of the UN-endorsed Peace Ambassador appointment in Nigeria as part of the UN World Human Rights Day observed in Abuja recently. Speaking at the event, Professor Halo Eton, Director General of POLAC, the coordinating agency said the appointment followed recommendations from the general public of people considered

capable of promoting peaceful coexistence among Nigerians. Lucky Omoluwa pledged to continue promoting peace, tolerance and mutual understanding. “If we have Peace Ambassadors in every home there will be peace everywhere. I will preach peace and make people understand that it is better to live together than to live apart,” he declared. A cross section of those who attended the event commended the UN for domesticating the appointment of World Peace Ambassadors in Nigeria as a significant initiative to encourage people to embrace peaceful

coexistence and shun divisive tendencies.

Omoluwa

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Court Grants SERAP’s Request to Sue Finance Minister over Abuja CCTV Controversy Nigerians keen on knowing details of the spending of the $460 million loan obtained in 2010 from China to fund the apparently failed Abuja Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) project, the names of contractors who collected money, and why Nigeria is re-paying the loan, may soon have some answers, as Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has won the latest round in the legal battle to compel the federal government to disclose these details. Justice Anwuri Chikere of the Federal High Court in Abuja granted leave clearing the way for SERAP to advance its case to compel the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed, to disclose the details of payment of the $460 Chinese loan to contractors, and whether the sum of N1.5 billion paid in 2010 for the failed contract to construct the headquarters of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) was part of another Chinese loan. Justice Chikere, in granting leave, stated: “After going through the application filed by SERAP supported by seven paragraphs affidavit, with supporting exhibits, statement of facts, and verifying affidavits and written address in support, leave is hereby granted for SERAP to pursue its suit.” The judge granted the order following the argument in court on an exparte motion by SERAP’s counsel Ms Atinuke Adejuyigbe and

Mr. Opeyemi Owolabi. The suit is adjourned to Monday, February 24, 2020 for hearing of the substantive suit. SERAP had in the suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1447/2019 filed last month sought: “an order for leave to apply for judicial review and an order of mandamus to direct and/or compel the Minister of Finance to disclose the details of local companies and Chinese contractorsthathavereceivedfundsfrom the $460 million loan for the finance of the failedAbuja CCTV project as well as details of the status of implementation of the project.” It is also “seeking an order of mandamus to direct and compel the Minister of Finance to disclose whether the sum of N1.5 billion paid in 2010 for the failed project meant to construct the headquarters of the CCB was part of another loan obtained from China.” The suit followed SERAP’s Freedom of Information (FoI) request dated October 245, 2019 to Mrs Ahmed, expressing: “concern that Nigerians are being made to pay for the Chinese loans for failed and abandoned projects, and for which they have not benefited in any way, shape or form.” The suit read in part: “Transparency in the spending of Chinese loans is good for everyone, as this would help to increase the effectiveness, legitimacy, and contribution of the loans to the development of public goods and services, and the general public interests. “Democracy cannot flourish if

Firms Set to Launch Solar Assembly Plant in Nigeria Idowu Sowunmi A United States-based manufacturer of solar panels, lighting and batteries, Triton Solar, in conjunction with Silicon Valley Nigeria Economic Development (SV-NED) Inc would this week arrive Nigeria with the aim of launching Triton Solar innovative products for smart energy solutions. Top executives of Triton Solar have said their visit would provide them the opportunity to present their innovative products and finalise preferred partner status with the Nigerian Government. “We found a lot of possibilities for our products in Nigeria with its vast climate energy reserves and high requirement for power. We wanted to introduce clean energy in Nigeria. “Also, Nigeria is currently growing and keenly looking into alternate energy sources. We want to do our part and help make the world cleaner with cleaner energy that would cause much lesser pollution,” the Chief Executive Officer, Triton Solar, Himanshu B Patel, said. As part of their itinerary, Triton Solar/SV-NED team members would meet with Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his Oyo State counterpart, Seyi Makinde. The team would also visit Abuja where it would meet with some ministers, members of the National Assembly and other top government officials. There would have a separate meeting with potential investors in Great City Power Solutions, including Ambassador Bamanga Tukur. Triton Solar/SV-NED team would also visit Sokoto State,

where it would meet with Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saa’d Abubakar, among others. Ahead of their visit to Nigeria, top executives of Triton Solar, including Patel and Managing Partner, Global Head of Business, Bhagi Nanda Sandilya, along with the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, SV-NED, Mrs. Temitope Ajayi (aka Mama Diaspora), had a trade and investment meeting with the Consul-General of Nigeria, Hon. Ben Okoyen, and the Consul of Trade and Commerce, Nicholas Ella, on November 4 at the Nigeria House in New York, United States. At the meeting, various models and opportunities to launch Triton Solar clean energy products and services as applicable to Nigeria were discussed. The consul-general welcomed Triton Solar executives and their partner, SV-NED Inc, and assigned a three-member team to visit the firm’s New Jersey plant for live demonstration on same day. The three-member delegation had two-hour live demos and toured the assembly plant. Speaking after their visit, Ella said: “It was a great delight to have visited Triton Solar to see the economic development opportunities the firm can offer Nigeria through its innovative products for smart energy solutions. “I look forward to working with your firm very closely to bring to fruition this amazing opportunity to our country to further demonstrate leadership in the African region and put some ‘light unto humanity as well’. I welcome Triton Solar executives to Nigeria soon, and I wish you the very best in the future.”

governments operate in secrecy. The citizens are entitled to know how the commonwealth is being utilised, managed and administered in a democratic setting.”

The FoI request read in part: “As trustee of public funds, SERAP contends that your ministry has a legal duty to disclose details of spending on the $460 million

Abuja CCTV project and N1.5 billion for the construction of CCB headquarters, to the beneficiaries (Nigerians) of the trust, if and when called upon

to do so. Any failure or refusal to provide the information will also be clearly inconsistent with the letter and spirit of the FoI Act.

SEEKING DIVINE INTERVENTION…

R-L: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Pastor Ben Udeh; General Overseer, Christian Brethren Ministry, Pastor Obby Okeke; Pastor Clem Okeke, and Deacon Alexander Osayi, during the Christian Brethren Ministry annual Jericho March 2019, in Benin City… yesterday

Invasion of The Sun Reminiscent of Military Era, Says Uwazurike A former President of Aka Ikenga, Chief Goddy Uwazurike, has described the invasion of the premises of The Sun Newspapers by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as an anachronistic action reminiscent of the military era. Uwazurike in a statement last night, said the society is not static and that the government agencies must not impose dictatorship on the fourth estate of the realm.

He argued that The Sun is a juristic person and must be distinguished from the person of the chairman. “The publishing company is a juristic person and must be distinguished from the person of the chairman. That is why everyone is liable for its action.” He stressed that since the subject matter is already before the court, it was better for the anti-graft agency to wait for the judgment or the orders of the court before sealing up the

newspaper company. “I am aware that the federal government agency charged with crime investigation is in court with The Sun Newspapers Limited. Having submitted to the jurisdiction of the court, the EFCC must await the judgment or the orders of the court before sealing up the Sun Newspapers Limited. “For the avoidance of doubt, the conviction of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has no legal relationship with the invasion of the premises of the media house. The officers in

the government of Muhammadu Buhari swore to uphold the constitution. I ask for nothing less than justice,” Uwazurike stressed. He contended that executive lawlessness as stated by Justice C.A Oputa of the Supreme Court in the celebrated case of Ojukwu vs Governor of Lagos State, should not be toler “Oputa and his colleagues during the military era had the courage to uphold justice. The judiciary of today must do likewise,” he said

Lagos Guber Election Petition: AD Confident of Victory, Says Candidate Sunday Okobi The governorship candidate of Alliance for Democracy (AD) in Lagos State during the 2019 general election, Chief Owolabi Salis, has expressed confidence that the Supreme Court will grant victory to the party in its case seeking the nullification of the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the poll in the state. The APC candidate in the 2019 governorship poll, Governor

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was declared the winner of the election. Having failed at the Tribunal and Court of Appeal, Salis went to the Supreme Court to seek removal of Sanwo-Olu as governor of Lagos State. The matter is billed for hearing on December 18, 2019. A statement signed and issued by the AD gubernatorial candidate yesterday said he intended to make sure that Lagosians get the leader they voted for at the polls. Salis alleged that Sanwo-Olu

was not elected by majority of valid votes, pointing out that the decisions of the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal and Court of Appeal verdicts dismissing his petition against Sanwo-Olu’s election for lacking in merit was “corruption of justice.” The AD candidate, who is also a lawyer in United States, said upon justice and equity, AD may rule Lagos State again According to the statement, “The election of Sanwo-Olu

should be declared invalid for non-compliance with the electoral act. Secondly, Sanwo-Olu was not qualified to contest the election. “Whether my prediction will be right depends on the court deciding on the path of justice rather than mere technicalities. Deciding on the “interest of justice” will promote sanity and development in the society. Deciding on “technicalities” will regress a society and promotes the interest of the few.”

Ganduje Bags Kano NUJ Correspondent Chapel Education Award Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, at the weekend vowed that his administration would ensure that every child in Kano has unhindered access to free, compulsory and qualitative education. Ganduje, who stated this while receiving the Kano State

Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Award of Excellence and Appreciation as the Father of Modern Free Education in Nigeria 2019, held in Kano, also reiterated his desire to ensure that Almajiri in the state benefit from his free, compulsory basic and secondary education policy, even though most of them are children from neighbouring states.

He described the status of Kano as the state with the highest number of out-of-school children in the country as a challenge that must be faced and defeated. According to the governor, with the free school feeding programme and free education policy in place, all children in the state now have the privilege to be educated, just as he charged parents to take advantage of

the ample opportunity to send their wards to school for a better future. He appreciated the award bestowed on him by the Kano NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, adding that: “We are happy that you identified with the heavily-loaded statement we made here in Kano, which is free, compulsory basic and secondary education for our children.

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

NBBF Names 14 Players for D’Tigress’ Final Olympics Qualifying Tourney Nigeria’s women’s basketball coach, Otis Hughley has called up 14 players to D’Tigress for the last phase of the 2020 Olympics Qualification Tournament billed for Belgrade early next year. The tournament runs from February 6 to 9. Louisville University guard, Elizabeth Balogun who was not released by her school for the pre-OQT got another invitation from D’Tigress handler alongside Nigeria-

based Musa Murjanantu who emerged as the Zenith Bank Women Basketball League Most Valuable Player after guiding Air Warriors of Abuja to their first ever league title. Virtus Eirene of Italy small forward, Ifunanya Ibekwe, Promise Amukamara (Charnay Basket Bourgogne SUD, Frace), Sarah Imovbioh (Basket Namur Capitale, Belgium) and Spain based Elo Edeferioka who plies her trade with CB Vigo have also earned

a recall. Others include point-guard, Upe Atosu currently studying and playing for Butler University in the United States of America. Pallas Kunaiyi Akpannah may be on course to continue building her fledging national team career after debuting for Nigeria at the pre-qualifiers in Maputo,

Mozambique in November while usual suspects Ezinne Kalu, Evelyn Akhator, Aisha Balarabe and team captain, Adaora Elonu have all been included in the 14 man list. Nigeria is grouped alongside host- Serbia, World Champions- USA and Mozambique with two Olympics tickets on offer.

FULL LIST OF PLAYERS Ifunanya Ibekwe Promise Amukamara Sarah Imovbioh Elo Edeferioka Upe Atosu Pallas Kunaiyi Akpannah Ezinne Kalu Evelyn Akhator Aisha Balarabe Adaora Elonu Elizabeth Balogun Musa Murjanantu

(Virtus Eirene, Italy) (Charnay Basket Bourgogne SUD, France) (Basket Namur Capitale, Belgium) (CB Vigo Spain) (Butler University, USA) (Meccanica Nova, Italy) (Landerneau Bretagne Basket, France) (Flammes Carolo, France) (KB Bashkimi, Kosovo) (Uni Girona, Spain) (Louisville University, USA) (Air Warriors, Nigeria)

Gusau to Face AFN Panel on Wednesday Embattled and suspended president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria,Shehu Ibrahim Gusau has been given Wednesday December 18,2019 to appear before the panel set up by the federation investigating allegations of financial impropriety,misapplication of funds and breaches of the AFN constitution against him. In a letter dated 13th December,2019 and signed by Oluwole Afolabi,chairman of the investigative panel,Gusau was asked to appear before the committee at 10.00am at the AFN Board room,MKO Abiola National stadium,Abuja. “You are kindly requested to attend the meeting with relevant documents to buttress your submissions,’the letter read. Gusau was suspended for breaching some articles of the federation’s constitution including article 6.1.4 which demands at least a 60-day notice must be given before any form of congress can convened. The suspended president however convened the congress exactly 29 days to the date of the congress in Awka,Anambra state. Gusau is also expected to account for the over N92m he has collected from the federal government for some of the championships held between 2017 and 2019. The committee,according to sources will be interested in how

the sum of N35m was expended at the last IAAF (now World Athletics) World Championships in Doha taking into consideration the world governing body for the sport was 100% responsible for the travel and accommodation (including feeding) of all 25 athletes Nigeria presented at the championships. ‘World Athletics also subsidised by 55% the accommodation of 14 officials coaches and board members) Nigeria was entitled to take to the competition,’said a source familiar with the organisation of the championships. The committee will find out why athletes and coaches are still being owed $300 each despite the huge approval by government. ‘The committee will also like to find out why Gusau failed to pay the 86 youth and junior athletes that participated at the African Youth and Junior championships in Abidjan in April this year despite getting N13m from government for the competition,’the source added. Gusau will also be required to explain why the AFN entered into an agreement with sportswear manufacturer,PUMA without the knowledge and consent of the board as well as the secretary general who is the custodian of the federation’s documents,records and properties.

D’Tigress Coach Otis Hughley, working out tactical formation for his players in a recent match

Players Talk Tough ahead of ValueJet Para T’tennis Open Nigerian players aiming to be part of the maiden Valuejet Para Table Tennis Open believe they will not be pushovers against the visitors. Already, eight countries including host – Nigeria have been confirmed for the three-day tournament holding Okoya-Thomas Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium. From Atlanta 96 Paralympic bronze medalist, Nosiru Sule, the tournament is a good opportunity for upcoming players to showcase their talents.

“I am so excited that we are hosting this kind of championship for the first time in Nigeria. There is no doubt that the presence of teams from Egypt and South Africa will make the tournament competitive and I am sure Nigerian players will not want to play second fiddle to the visitors. “Having featured in three Paralympic Games, this is good development for Nigeria that our players

President of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C), Dr. Rauf Ladipo and SecretaryGeneral of the boxing body, Remi

Aboderin, have commended the sponsors of GOtv Boxing Night for their plan to stage the World Boxing Federation (WBF)

Runners Thank Sanwo-Olu, Access Bank for Paying Their Registration Fees I gave up my dream of running the fifth edition until the cheering news came last month after the press conference that Governor Sanwo-Olu has stated that he will pay on our behalf. I was glad when I heard the news. I followed up and got a form free. I thank the Governor for making my dream come true. God bless him� Iyabo Lawal, a student of a tertiary institution, told our correspondent. Free from the first edition in 2015, the management of Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, now an IAAF Silver Label Race, had to introduce registration fee in compliance with IAAF/AIMS

international tournament, I hope I can show then what I am capable of doing. It promises to be exciting in Lagos and I am eagerly looking forward to make the podium,� the class 10 African champion said. For Tajudeen Agunbiade, who had already secured his passage to Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games in Japan, the tournament would give opportunity to shake off their rustiness after the qualifiers in Egypt earlier this year.

WBF Bout: NBB of C Lauds GOtv Boxing Night

L A G O S C I T Y M A R AT H O N

Thousands of runners who are beneficiaries of the Executive Governor of Lagos State Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s decision to pay their registration fee for the 2020 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon have expressed their profound gratitude to the Governor and other sponsors supporting runners to participate in the race slated for February 8, 2020. “After having so much fun and imbibing the culture of running and general exercise from participating in the first four editions of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, I was looking forward to participating in the fifth until they introduced a fee.

will have the opportunity to test might with their foreign counterparts in Africa,� Sule said. Like Sule, Faith Obazuaye, a silver medalist at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, this is another platform for her to display her talents particularly against the visiting teams. “When I won the class 10 in Egypt earlier this year, many people is still doubting my ability and now that we are hosting an

regulations for all label races. A registration fee of N5,000 was introduced for the full Marathon and the 10km race for Nigerians, while foreigners will pay $100 for any of the races. Access Bank, the headline sponsors, Seven-up Bottling Company, Revolution Plus Properties and other sponsors and partners are paying registration fees for thousands of runners. Edward Johnson, another beneficiary, thanked the Lagos State Governor and Access Bank for sponsoring the race and supporting runners. “Access Bank may not fully understand the magnitude of what

they have done by sponsoring this race� Said Aisha Ibrahim. “They have promoted the culture of exercise. Most of my friends and family that were obese are now fit and trim thanks to the culture of running triggered by Access Bank Lagos City Marathon. I thought I will miss the 2020 edition until the Governor and Access Bank promised to pay on our behalf�. Others runners who picked the free form at the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon Village at Teslim Balogun Stadium or from the sponsors also thank Governor Sanwo-Olu and the sponsors for supporting runners and making their dreams come true.

Intercontinental heavyweight title bout in Lagos. The high-profile match, which will see Nigeria’s Onos “Godzilla� Ehwariemi take on Argentina’s Ariel “Chiquito� Baracamonte, is the headline encounter of the nine-bout show holding on 28 December at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos. Speaking over the weekend, Ladipo described the WBF bout as an indication of progress Nigerian Boxing has made. “The WBF is a prestigious world boxing body. That a WBF title bout is holding in Nigeria is a clear indication of the progress the sport has made. Huge credit should go to GOtv, which has provided enormous support for boxing over the last five years, and, of course, Mr. Adewunmi Ogunsanya, Chairman, MultiChoice Nigeria, for making this a reality,� said Ladipo. Aboderin, the body’s SecretaryGeneral, is of the same persuasion. He stated that the WBF title bout is the biggest bout to be staged in

Nigeria in decades, adding that it is a big plus for Nigerian boxing and the country itself. “We have not had such a high profile fight in Nigeria for a while. The NBB of C is really happy with the support for the sport by GOtv, whose intervention since 2014, has given boxing a lifeline,� Aboderin said. Aboderin, who is also President of the West African Boxing Union (WABU), called on other corporate organizations to emulate GOtv, which he said has demonstrated commitment to youth development via boxing. GOtv Boxing Night 20 will feature three other title fights. The are the West African Boxing Union (WABU) lightweight title bout between the defending champion, Rilwan “Real One� Oladosu of Nigeria and Ezekiel Anan; WABU welterweight bout between the reigning champion, Nigeria’s Rilwan “Baby Face� Babatunde and Ghana’s Sanitor Agbenyo; and a national bantamweight title bout between Sadiq Adeleke and Opeyemi “Sense� Adeyemi.

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Ljungberg Calls for Speedy Managerial Decision after Man City Dominance at Emirates Caretaker Arsenal manager Freddie Ljungberg believes the club must make a permanent appointment quickly to halt their slide after a Kevin De Bruyne inspired Manchester City cruised to a 3-0 win at the Emirates yesterday. De Bruyne scored twice and teed up Raheem Sterling for City’s other goal to leave Arsenal down in ninth in the Premier League on the back of just one win in their last 12 games in all competitions. Ljungberg has been in charge for five of those matches, but is hoping a permanent appointment can be made before next weekend’s trip to Everton. “It is a great honour to do this, but I’ve said I think it needs to be cleared up, to make a decision so that everybody knows,� said Ljungberg.

EPL RESULTS Man Utd 1-1 Everton Wolves 1-2 Spurs Arsenal 0-3 Man City

“It is totally up to the club. I try to do things as well as I can but it would be good to make a decision, regardless of what it is.� There was little doubt City would bounce back from a derby defeat to Manchester United last weekend that left them 14 points behind Liverpool at the top of the table after De Bruyne opened the scoring just 90 seconds in. Gabriel Martinelli had Arsenal’s only shot on target inside the first minute when Ederson blocked from his fellow Brazilian. City broke straight up the other end and Gabriel Jesus’s low cross picked out De Bruyne to stroke the ball into the roof of the net. Pep Guardiola’s men had been ruthlessly cut apart on the counter-attack by United and were conscious not to make the same mistake again as they allowed Arsenal possession for large spells before breaking at speed. The visitors doubled their lead just 15 minutes in with De Bruyne this time the creator as he carried

Kamaru Usman Dominant over Covington Earns Him Extra $50,000 Femi Solaja withagencyreport

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC )245 bout which saw Nigerian born Kamaru Usman retained his Welterweight belt in the early hours on Sunday against challenger, Colby Covington, have earn the fighter an extraordinary $50,000 due to the intensity of the bout at T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. Although both fighters are due for $500,000 each on a $2million night of extravaganza, www.forbes. com reported that the encounter which was one of the supporting bouts was a good advertisement and it ended with a definitive finish in one of the promotion’s most bitter rivalries. UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru Usman scored two knockdowns and captured a thrilling fifth-round TKO over Colby Covington to retain his title and silence the outspoken and controversial challenger. The Nigerian now holds win over Covington, former welterweight champ Tyron Woodley, former lightweight champ Rafael Dos Anjos, and Demian Maia, among others. As for Covington, the loss is only the second of his career. The defeat snaps a seven-fight win streak

the American was riding into UFC 245. After a heated buildup and a compelling fight, Kamaru Usman is still the UFC welterweight champion. With the clock winding down in their UFC 245 main event Saturday night, Usman (16-1 MMA, 11-0 UFC) finished former interim champ Colby Covington at 4:10 of Round 5. As Covington (15-2 MMA, 10-2 UFC) walked out to Kurt Angle’s WWE theme song, he was met with boos and middle fingers from the crowd, although the controversial competitor also had a noticeable share of supporters. A calm, cool and collected Usman made the walk second, draped in the Nigerian flag. When it came time to fight, the two combatants, who did not touch gloves at the outset, delivered. Known for their wrestling abilities, not one takedown attempt was tried. Covington set a frenetic pace in the first, while Usman was more calculated with his strikes. After three rounds of back-andforth face-punching, Covington informed his corner he thought he broke his jaw. Upon replay, a hard straight right was likely the culprit.

RIGAN Games Kick off Today in Ota The Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBBRI) Ota will from this this morning as the 16th Edition of the Research Games Association of Nigeria, RIGAN games festival tagged Ota 2019. Over 25 research and Development Institute from across the country are already in Ota for the biennial games. About 1500 participants will compete in 13 events,including, football, volleyball, athletics among others. The Minister of Science and Technology Dr Ogbonnaya Onu is expected to declare the games

open. Addressing newsmen ahead of the opening ceremony, the President of RIGAN,Prof Rabiu Adamu commended the host institute for the level of preparation that have been put in place for for the games. He expressed delight at the quality of sporting facilities , acccomadation and other logistics put in place for the games. This years will also feature Veteran games. The Veterans will feature in tennis, athletics, badminton and 5-aside football.

the ball forward before squaring for Sterling to slot home his 16th goal of the season. De Bruyne then showed his superior quality to any other player on the pitch again five minutes before halftime as this time he curled into the bottom

corner on his weaker left foot from outside the box. “He is an extraordinary player, we didn’t discover his quality today,� said Guardiola. “He sees passes and actions that normally human beings cannot see. I always tell him

you have to score more goals and today he scored two incredible goals.� Only a brilliant save from Bernd Leno denied De Bruyne a first half hattrick moments later as the German’s fingertips turned

another long-range De Bruyne effort onto the post. Arsenal’s preparation for the game had been disturbed by the controversy surrounding Mesut Ozil’s support for the Muslim minority Uighurs in Chinese province Xinjiang.

Kevin De Bruyne delivers one of the two goals he scored in 3-0 win for Manchester City yesterday at the Emirates Stadium in London

Tiger Woods Lead USA to Beat International in Presidents Cup Tiger Woods’ US team dominated yesterday’s singles as they beat the International team 16-14 in Melbourne to win an eighth successive Presidents Cup. The visitors had trailed 10-8 going into the final day, but Woods led by example as he beat Abraham Ancer 3&2 in the first match. Patrick Reed, whose caddie was banned after “shoving� a spectator on Saturday, beat Taiwan’s CT Pan 4&2. The US won eight of the 12

points with Matt Kuchar sealing victory. “We did it together,� said Woods, who recorded a 27th win in the tournament, beating Phil Mickelson’s record of 26. “We came here as a team. My team-mates and my boys all played well, the captains did an amazing job. “It’s been one of the more amazing challenges but all the guys believed in one another and relied on one another.� It is the US’ 11th win in the 13th

edition of the biennial tournament, with one draw. “We were right there to the end, just a couple of matches didn’t quite go our way,� said International captain Ernie Els. “We’re getting closer. We’ve just got to keep it up.� Reed, who lost his previous three matches at the tournament, was heckled throughout the competition after he was penalised for improving the lie of his ball at last week’s Hero World Challenge

in The Bahamas. He was criticised by members of Els’ team including Australian Cameron Smith, who said he “doesn’t have any sympathy for anyone that cheats�. Then came the incident with his caddie Kessler Karain, who was thrown out of the tournament by the PGA Tour after reacting aggressively towards a spectator who had verbally abused Reed. Swing coach Kevin Kirk stepped in to caddie on Sunday.

NPFL

Rivers Utd Cruise to Easy Win over Katsina Utd Goals from Michael Gopey and Ishaq Rafiu either side of half time proved decisive as Rivers United cruised to a routine 2-0 win over a poor Katsina United side in the Nigeria Professional Football League yesterday. Gopey’s fabulous strike in the fifth minute set the tone for a dominant and powerful first half display from the hosts who could have added three more, at the very least, in a largely one-sided first half in which the visitors failed to muster a single shot on target. Gilt-edged opportunities came and went the way of United but Ishaq on two occasions, Gopey

and Esor Nelson all failed to make the visitors pay. United continued to dominate in the second half and it was only a matter of time before consistent pressure led to a second goal by the impressive Ishaq who finished off impressively in the 75th minute. Esor Nelson picked up a second Yellow card with a little over nine minutes remaining to put a blur on an otherwise perfect day in the office for the hosts. The dismissal meant, Obomate Frederick’s season’s debut (the midfielder was already on the touchline to replace the dismissed Esor) was halted.

Technical manager of Rivers United, Stanley Eguma stopped short of describing Sunday’s display as his side’s best of the season. “No, it wasn’t our best display of the season because we still need to be more clinical in front of goal,� he told the club’s official website, www.riversunitedfc. com.ng. “It is not yet time for us to celebrate. Sometimes, we play and we don’t score goals. “Today, we scored two but I believe that we could have scored more,� he said. Henry Makinwa, head coach of Katsina United, said his team lacked

potency in the game clinically, we were very poor,� he said. Rivers United have moved into sevent place in the NPFL standings with 12 points from eight matches. United next travel to Uyo where they will face Akwa United next Wednesday.

NPFL MATCH DAY 8 RESULTS Kwara Utd 0-1 Heartland Plateau Utd 5-1 FC IfeanyiUbah Jigawa Stars 2-1 Warri Wolves Lobi Stars 1-0 Abia Warriors Dakkada FC 2-1 Enyimba Rivers Utd 2-0 Katsina Utd Adamawa Utd 0-3 Sunshine

Record Entries for Marvico Badminton Championships Activities marking the 2nd edition of the Marvico Group of Companies annual Badminton Championship holding in Obazu Autonomous Community in Mbieri in Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State from December 15 through December 30, 2019, are expected to serve off today with over 80 players in attendance. The competition which holds at the badminton courts close to the football field in Obazu,

is being played in accordance with the world standard in both the singles and doubles events. Championship sponsor, Chief Nnamdi Iroegbu, the Chief Executive Officer of Marvico Group of Companies who disclosed this in Lagos at the weekend, said his vision and desire of getting the youths of Obazu gainfully engaged in not only sports but other human endeavor, informed his

sponsorship of the championship for the second time running irrespective of what it costs to organize the competition. “It has always been my vision, desire, zeal and dreams to see the youths of Obazu excel in life. That is why I am doing all these no matter what it costs me,� stressed the sponsor. He also said that cash awards have been set aside for winners as well as consolation prizes for

other categories Chief Iroegbu gave thanks to Eze Francis E. Ajunwa, the Eze of Obazu Autonomous Community for not only believing in him but mobilising Obazu youths for the programme.. He also thanked the town planner, the President of Obazu Town Union, Iheanyi Abaekwume for ensuring that the championship goes on well as planned.

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T H I S D AY ˾ MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2019

MONDAYSPORTS

Tyson Fury Rules Out Potential Fight with Anthony Joshua Next Year Tyson Fury has ruled out an all-UK heavyweight fight with Anthony Joshua in 2020 due to his commitments in America. The ‘Gypsy King’ is preparing for a February rematch with Deontay Wilder and does not currently have his eyes set on Anthony Joshua - who reclaimed his WBA, WBO and IBF titles with victory over Andy Ruiz Jr last week. Fury, 31, said he has more fights to have as part of his current television deal before he can focus on a bout with ‘AJ’, speaking with Behind The Gloves. ‘Whatever, I’ve got three fights left on my ESPN contract in America; Wilder

- Wilder - and whoever else, another American,’ said Fury. ‘So yeah, I’ll be pretty busy up until the end of this year and we’ll see what happens from there. ‘I can only focus on one fight at a time.’ However, Joshua has said that either a fight with Deontay Wilder or Tyson Fury must happen in 2020 as fans have waited long enough to see the best in the division go head-to-head. Fury did speak out on his fellow countryman becoming a two-time heavyweight champion, saying: ‘Fair play to AJ, he out boxed a fella who knocked him out before. It takes a lot of guts

and boxing ability. ‘I thought he looked fantastic. I’ve heard the criticism. I’d rather win and

stink the place out than lose in a very entertaining fight. ‘Let’s face it, no-one’s really interested in Ruiz and

Joshua. They’re just two other heavyweights on a collision course. ‘The real fight is me and

Wilder. This is the biggest heavyweight fight of my lifetime - won’t be a bigger one any time soon.’

Ronaldo’s Double Puts Juventus Back as Serie A Leader Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Juventus bounced back from their first defeat of the season to beat Udinese 3-1 and move top of Serie A last night. Ronaldo struck twice in the first half to make it five goals in four games as the champions move one point ahead of leaders Inter Milan. “That’s how we have to play, with confidence. Let’s see what happens now,” said Ronaldo. Maurizio Sarri’s side had taken just one point from their last two league games, falling 3-1 to Lazio in Rome last weekend after a 2-2 draw against Sassuolo. But Portuguese star Ronaldo tapped in a Paulo Dybala rebound after nine minutes at the Allianz Stadium, and burst through to finish off a Gonzalo Higuain cross on 36 minutes. Leonardo Bonucci sealed the three points just before the break when he headed in from close range. Ignacio Pussetto pulled a goal back for 17th-placed Udinese four minutes into injury time with his close range effort beating Gianluigi Buffon in the Juventus goal. Juventus play their final Serie A game before the winter break at Sampdoria on Wednesday, with a rematch against Lazio in the Italian Super Cup in Saudi Arabia next weekend. “It is the first time after a Champions League match that we managed to attack the game well,” said Sarri. “We played very well for 60 minutes.” Roma move up to fourth and into the Champions League places after three second-half goals sealed a 3-1 win over rock bottom SPAL. Andrea Petagna had put SPAL ahead from the spot just before the break after Aleksandar Kolarov clumsily brought down Thiago Cionek in the box. But Lorenzo Pellegrini pulled the hosts level eight minutes after the interval with a shot that took a deflection off Nenad Tomovic. Diego Perotti put Roma ahead with a 66th-minute penalty before substitute Henrikh Mkhitaryan sealed victory seven minutes from time.

Roma are one point behind third-placed city rivals Lazio, who play fifth-placed Caglairi on Monday. Napoli drop to eighth – 11 points off the top four – after last season’s runners-up lost 2-1 to Parma on Saturday. Atalanta are sixth after falling 2-1 at Bologna just days after the Champions League newcomers sealed their place in the competition’s last 16. Rodrigo Palacio opened the scoring after 12 minutes for Bologna off a rebound after a Riccardo Orsolini effort came off the post. Andrea Poli nodded in the second eight minutes after the break, before Ruslan Malinovskyi pulled a goal back on the hour mark. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side are sixth on 28 points, four points off the Champions League places. “We are a team that often creates a lot, but is wasteful. Today we wasted too many opportunities,” said Gasperini. AC Milan were held to a goalless draw against Sassuolo at the San Siro as the former European giants marked their 120th anniversary in tepid style. Theo Hernandez had a goal ruled out after half an hour following a Franck Kessie handball in the buildup, with Rafael Leao hitting the crossbar and the post. Stefano Pioli’s side failed to make it three wins in a row and sit 10th with Sassuolo three places and five points below. Hellas Verona battled back from three goals down with all three substitutes scoring in a 15-minute second-half spell to hold Torino 3-3. Christian Ansaldi scored a brace with Alex Berenguer also on target for the visitors. But Verona hit back with three goals after 69 minutes when Giampaolo Pazzini scored from the spot. Valerio Verre then smashed in off a rebound, before Mariusz Stepinski added a third. Torino are ninth, with Verona two points back in 12th.

Juventus players celebrating the win last night

UEFA Champions League Draw Holds Today The UEFA Champions League Knock out phase Draw ceremony comes today in Nyon, Switzerland Daily Mail guide brings complete lowdown on every team in the last-16 and teams likely to be paired together Seeded PSG (FRA, Group A) Bayern Munich (GER, Group B) Manchester City (ENG, Group C) Juventus (ITA, Group D) Liverpool (ENG, Group E) Barcelona (ESP, Group F) RB Leipzig (GER, Group G) Valencia (ESP, Group H) Unseeded Real Madrid (ESP, Group A) Tottenham (ENG, Group B) Atalanta (ITA, Group C) Atletico Madrid (ESP, Group D) Napoli (ITA, Group E) Dortmund (GER, Group F) Lyon (FRA, Group G) Chelsea (ENG, Group H) The draw for the last-16 of the UEFA Champions League takes place on Monday at 11am GMT When is it? The Champions League last-16 draw will take place on Monday December 16 at UEFA’s HQ in Nyon, Switzerland.

What time is it? The draw will begin at 11am (GMT). How can I watch? You can watch the Champions League last-16 draw on BT Sport 1 or as a live stream on the UEFA website. TEAM GUIDE Paris Saint-Germain Manager: Thomas Tuchel Star man: Kylian Mbappe It’s always the same question with Paris Saint-Germain - is this finally their year? It is always promising in the group stage and that includes this year where with a game to play they saw off Real Madrid for top spot. But often there is a choke once the knockout stages come round, including a home collapse against Manchester United earlier in the year and that infamous 6-1 capitulation at Barcelona. Maybe there is more to come this year, especially with Neymar having played less than a half in the group stages... Who could they face? Tottenham Hotspur, Atalanta, Atletico Madrid, Napoli, Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea Champions League best?

Semi-finals Bayern Munich Manager: Hans-Dieter Flick (interim) Star man: Robert Lewandowski For all his troubles domestically, Niko Kovac did much of the hard work in guiding Bayern Munich through to the last-16 as group winners underlined by their crushing 7-2 annihilation at Tottenham which for all intent and purposes saw the job done on the second match day. Or maybe it was Robert Lewandowski who put in all the hard yards? Netting 10 goals in just five games to lead the scoring charts - who says footballers are past their best in their 30s? Who could they face? Real Madrid, Atalanta, Atletico Madrid, Napoli, Lyon, Chelsea Champions League best: Winners (5) 1974, 1975, 1976, 2001, 2013 Manchester City Manager: Pep Guardiola Star man: Kevin De Bruyne Hopes of a third Premier League title in a row being binned before Christmas was most certainly not part of the plan but it does give City a chance

to prioritise Europe and a so far elusive Champions League crown. Given a relatively easy group, they delivered on expectations to progress as group winners. But can Pep Guardiola finally once again get his hands on the trophy he last lifted in 2011 or will City continue to stumble from bad to worse after Christmas? Who could they face? Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Napoli, Borussia Dortmund, Lyon Champions League best? Semi-finals Juventus Manager: Maurizio Sarri Star man: Cristiano Ronaldo It has all looked quite comfortable for Juventus, who saw off Atletico Madrid to win the group with a match to play. But late shows were needed to see off group minnows Lokomotiv Moscow... twice. Ronaldo continues to prove the star man even as he approaches 35-years-old but do we dare suggest his powers are on the wane? Just one assist and one goal in the group stage - and even that was the third in a 3-0 home win over Bayer Leverkusen

Benzema’s Late Equalizer against Valencia Extends Madrid Unbeaten Run Real Madrid fluffed a great opportunity to go two points clear at the summit of La Liga, as a late Karim Benzema goal remarkably assisted by Thibaut Courtois - could only rescue a point in Valencia. Real started on the front foot, although they looked a touch awkward and indecisive in the final third. They did see Rodrygo and the prolific Karim Benzema go close with headed efforts in the first half, while Federico Valverde and Toni Kroos forced solid low stops out of Jaume Costa with long-range efforts.

At the other end, Ferran Torres was looking lively for Valencia. He spun Raphael Varane and got a low effort on target, before sending a header wide following an error from Thibaut Courtois - with Varane’s substantial presence proving just enough to put him off on this occasion. Torres vs Courtois was becoming the story of the match as we entered the second half, and the Belgian had to be on his toes to deny his adversary within seconds of the restart. He flew off his line to close the

angle and send the ball wide, after Rodrigo had returned a one-two that split the Real defence apart and left Torres one on one. As the game wore on, Valencia steadily grew into it, with Albert Celades narrowing his midfield four and stifling the supply line to Real’s wide men. Although this switch led to the game completely collapsing as a spectacle, it caught the visitors out and visibly wore them down - so when Carlos Soler arrived at the back post to convert Daniel Wass’ cross and

open the scoring on 78 minutes, it was no major surprise. The hosts looked to have run the clock down with relentless effectiveness, and after Luka Jovic’s late goal was chopped off for offside, that looked to be it. There would be another twist, though, as after Toni Kroos’ 94th minute corner caused havoc, Courtois who had come up in a desperate attempt to find an equaliser - touched the ball into the path of Benzema, who fired home to salvage a point.

Monday December 16, 2019

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Price: N250

MISSILE

Okogie to DSS

“If the executive disobeys court rulings, and if it intimidates and humiliates the judiciary, then we are back to the era when a military junta made laws and interpreted them without any regard for fundamental human rights” – Former Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Anthony Cardinal Okogie, chastising the DSS for invading the court recently.

SHAKAMOMODU Nigeria’s Descent into Tyranny THIS REPUBLIC

shaka.momodu@thisdaylive.com

A

cid rain is falling, the green grasses of the rainforest are turning into yellow. The trees are falling, animals are scampering for safety. What is the source of this rain that carries with it death and destruction? The prophecy of old is becoming a reality. Anyone unlucky enough to be beaten by this rain will suffer a long, agonising and painful end, so says the ancient wisdom. What can we do to stop this evil rail from destroying everything we have laboured for? If only we know that the power of the people is much greater than any strongman or whatever he may throw at us. Major General Muhammadu Buhari and his lawless regime have already established themselves firmly in the minds of many well-meaning Nigerians as a clear and present danger to the survival of the nation’s democracy, achieved on the sweat and blood of many innocent and unsung Nigerians who died in protests across the country to force the military back to the barracks. The sacrifices made by so many unsung and unappreciated Nigerians gave General Buhari the second chance and space to make a comeback 30 years after he was kicked out of office by his military colleagues. It is ironic that one of the greatest beneficiaries of the benevolence of the people and a freer and freer democratic space, which had hitherto expanded by the day, is riding roughshod over our democratic institutions that powered him to office in 2015 and he is doing everything to constrict the democratic space. The country achieved a critical milestone and major turning point in 2015 with the first transfer of power from one political party to another since 1999. Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s phone call to Buhari conceding defeat was momentous. That was truly seen by many as evidence that the country’s fledgling democracy, after some initial false starts, was beginning to come of age. Many were proud, the mood was exultant, and expectations were high, as many clicked champagne glasses celebrating the evolution of our democracy and the rise of another leader. It was a moment that resoundingly established our country as a democracy and it resonated around the world. Our country became the “shining city on the hill” to other African countries. His second coming was supposed to be an opportunity for the general to remedy his past. He promised that much. But from his very first media chat, after he assumed office in 2015, it was obvious General Buhari had not changed contrary to his claim of being a reformed democrat. General Buhari bared his fangs when asked about security agencies not obeying court orders. In his response, he made it clear to Nigerians what he expected of the courts. His calm countenance changed, he became menacingly and visibly agitated. This was how he answered: “If you know the atrocities committed by the people granted bail, then you’d understand. If they jump bail, it will be a problem for this country....” General Buhari was trying to goad the courts to his expectation. It wasn’t so much about what he said, but the manner he said it, his voice was dark and foreboding. But unfortunately, not many saw it that way. Instead they clapped for him. Even in the face of subsequent unpleasant developments and actions taken by agents of his regime, many excused General Buhari as not being aware. But events would later show he

Buhari was all along in the know. It was Mark Twain who captured it so well long ago, stating: “It’s easier to fool people than to convince them they have been fooled”. Having sold his fake and partisan anticorruption war to a gullible public, after hoodwinking them with his so-called integrity, a former Minister of Police Affairs and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Dr Yakubu Lame from Bauchi State had canvassed the insane idea for the suspension of some aspects of the constitution that inhibit General Buhari from fighting corruption for possibly eight years to allow him the leeway to properly fight the menace. He also advocated for the conferment of emergency powers on the general instead of following the long process of the rule of law to enable him fight corruption more vigorously. But General Buhari didn’t need to go that route, he signed Executive Order 6 empowering security agencies to seize properties of anyone on suspicion of unexplained wealth. Also, a particularly foolish professor who himself had once been on the receiving end of government abuse of power, serial violations of human rights on mere suspicion of involvement in a coup plot by the General Sani Abacha regime, and currently a part of this regime, declared his contempt for unmoderated rule of law. Even human rights lawyer, Mr Femi Falana frowned upon courts granting corruption suspects bail. Goaded by these strange submissions and cheered on by gullible Nigerians, General Buhari proceeded to invade the residences of judges, including that of a Supreme Court judge, ransacked their belongings, his agents planted incriminating evidence against them, arrested them, and marched them to our now notorious Department of State Services (DSS) in the wee hours of the morning on suspicion of corruption. Then came the turn of the National Assembly to get a taste of General Buhari’s tyrannical impulse and crude resort to self-help when national institutions stand in his way. In August 2018, General Buhari’s DSS in a Gestapo-style laid sage to the National Assembly in an attempt to change the leadership of the Senate which had resisted attempts to be cowed by the executive arm of government. The coup attempt failed following public outrage. With

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that Senate tenure over, the general and his apparatchiks ensured that a pliable leadership led by Ahmed Lawn as Senate President emerged. Just recently, this jester announced with glee that his leadership would approve any request General Buhari presents to it for approval because any request from Buhari is “good for the nation”. In August last year, General Buhari voiced his contempt for the rule of law right at the 59th Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference (AGC). With more than a touch of hubris and imperial finality, he declared that the rule of law must be subject to the supremacy of the nation’s security and national interest. His Hate Speech Bill, his refusal to obey court orders - arresting and throwing people into prisons without trial were signals that he meant business. Barely three weeks to the last presidential election and sensing that he was on the ropes, General Buhari came for the former Chief Justice of the Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen, who was supposed to preside over the Presidential Election Appeal, under spurious circumstances. He later replaced him with his man Friday, Chief Justice Muhammed Tanko. You saw the military alacrity with which the Supreme Court rubber-stamped his victory! Just recently, General Buhari’s regime took its lawlessness several steps further, when his Gestapo DSS invaded a Federal High Court to arrest Omoyeye Sowore, whom the same DSS had grudgingly released 12 hours prior after holding him for 125 days and ignoring two court orders granting him bail. As if the sacrilege of violating the courtroom was not enough, the regime defended the action of the DSS. The DSS had earlier issued the stupid explanation that it was Sowore and his supporters that had staged the invasion of the court as propaganda to undermine the DSS. How low can these people stoop? Where is the Chief Justice of Nigeria in all of this? He couldn’t rise to defend his constituency at a time like this when the whole world is scandalised by the crude and barbaric behaviour of Buhari’s DSS operatives inside the courtroom. From him has been total radio silence when his voice should have been the loudest in condemnation of the incident. What did I just say? A friend said he would have been sacked the next day by his benefactor had he done that. Allegations of corruption would have been the perfect pretext for that. General Buhari who purportedly won a second term by INEC declaration, and rubberstamped by the courts, has consolidated his hold on power. Democracy watchdogs, viz. the media, pro-democracy groups and civil society organisations had tolerated and even massaged Buhari’s anti-democratic behaviour since 2015. This I dare say, emboldened him to be more ruthless in manipulating election results through “remote control”, trampling on human rights of Nigerians and disobeying court orders; breaking his own worst record at will. Now all bets are off and pretences are out of the window. No institution of state is beyond his overreach. He is a man the “nation cannot call to order”. His tyrannical impulses and reflexive dictatorial tendencies to issues of governance are on full display. He doesn’t know much, yet pretends to know it all. A religious fanatic, a tribalist, a clannish and nepotistic

ruler whose nearly every action and inaction is driven by primordial considerations of us vs them. His fascist rule which has destroyed and corroded confidence in the institutions of state has entered a new phase. The country has practically collapsed under his incompetent leadership. He has rolled back all the gains of democracy that made it possible for him to be president. Maj. General Buhari is governing us with a medieval mindset that has remained impervious to modernity and change. Instead of seeing the whole country as his constituency, he has been running a government of his family, clan and cronies, by his family, clan and cronies, and for his family, clan and cronies. He does not give a damn about other parts of the country. Professor Farooq A. Kperogi gave a detailed expose of the extent of influence peddling amongst General Buhari’s family and extended family members recently, up till now, no one has denied it. According to Kperogi, “There is no equivalent in Nigeria’s 59-year history for the height, depth, breadth, and width of his family members’ offensively brash influence peddling and direct involvement with and in his government. None at all! Buhari operates an unabashed ‘familocracy’, that is, a government that is run by family members for the benefit of family members. On November 10, 2019, I used my Twitter and Facebook timelines to share the names of four biological relatives of Buhari’s who work in the Presidential Villa. However, further investigations have shown that there are way more relatives of Buhari’s (and Mamman Daura’s) who work in the Villa—and in the Katsina State government—than I shared. Even Buhari family members who are not directly in government are ruthlessly avaricious influence peddlers. There is no Buhari relative today, in and out of government, who isn’t a multi-millionaire. In Daura, they are called ‘the blood’. They are tastelessly showy and egotistical. They ride the biggest and most expensive cars, own the choicest houses in town, and ride roughshod over people less fortunate than they are. There’s a widespread joke in Daura that goes something like, ‘Want to change your one thousand naira note? Go to Shaiskawa.’ Shaiskawa is the part of Daura town Buhari and his relatives (or ‘the blood’) come from. The Buhari family members’ exhibitionistic preening of their new-found wealth is particularly amusing to Daura people because most of Buhari’s nouveau-riche relatives used to vegetate in squalid poverty up until 2015.” Kperogi went on to list the names of members of General Buhari’s family and their sudden wealth, “the blood” that constitute the nucleus of what he described as General Buhari’s familocracy. The general’s supporters should read Kperogi’s full article and explain to Nigerians the meaning of corruption. Obviously, Executive Order 6 does not apply to them. I beg to disagree somewhat with those calling on General Buhari to call his “wild dogs” to order. The fight against tyranny would be more effective if they criticise him frontally. Apart from the fact that the buck stops with him, the actions of the DSS are only a manifestation of his body language. And for those who still keep quiet in the face of General Buhari’s increasingly tyrannical behaviour, let me remind them of the immortal words of Martin Luther King Jr., that “there comes a time when silence is a betrayal.”

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