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Emefiele Rules Out Foreign Investors’ Exclusion from OMO Says FPIs remain important stakeholders in forex market Obinna Chima Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) will not be barred from participating in the Open Market Operations (OMO) auctions, Central Bank

of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, has said.

Besides, the CBN has facilitated the release of 50,000 metric tonnes of maize into the market, forcing down the price from N200,000 per metric

ton to N180,000.

Emefiele, in a telephone interview with THISDAY yesterday, highlighted the importance of portfolio inflows to the economy, saying that forex liquidity plays an

important role in supporting economic growth.

He spoke against the backdrop of a report by Bloomberg on Tuesday, which quoted CBN’s Director of Monetary Policy, Mr. Hassan

Mahmud, as saying in an interview aired during an online conference in Abuja that the bank was preparing to end an era of debt sales that handed foreign investors one of the best returns in Africa.

Bloomberg had quoted Mahmud as saying that offerings to non-residents of OMO bills are to be phased out, “once current obligations Continued on page 8

FG Approves Establishment of SIM Swap Centres in 774 LGs... Page 6 Thursday 4 March, 2021 Vol 26. No 9461. Price: N250

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Buhari Orders Security Agents to Shoot Illegal Weapons’ Bearers North-east govs plan regional security outfit to combat rising insecurity Extend flight ban to Benue, others, ACF urges Buhari No-fly zone, ploy to declare state of emergency in Zamfara, says PDP Chuks Okocha, Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Michael Olugbode in Abuja, John Shiklam in Kaduna and Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered security agents to shoot anyone with illegal possession of sophisticated weapons such as AK-47, his spokesman, Mallam Garba

Shehu, has said.

Shehu told the BBC in an interview yesterday that the president also directed a clampdown on bandits who have refused to surrender.

Shehu confirmed to THISDAY yesterday that he granted the BBC the interview on efforts by the president to Continued on page 8

FG: COVID-19 Vaccination Optional for Nigerians Emma Okonji, Nosa Alekhuogie in Lagos and Alex Enumah in Abuja Ahead of the commencement of COVID-19 vaccination, the federal government yesterday assured Nigerians that it won't make it mandatory for them to take the vaccine.

Minister of State for Health, Dr. Olorunnimbe Mamora, while fielding questions when

he appeared on The Morning Show, the flagship breakfast programme on ARISE NEWS Channels, the broadcast arm of THISDAY Newspapers, said inasmuch as the federal government was desirous of combating the pandemic, it would not tamper with people's rights to accept or reject being vaccinated.

Continued on page 9

MINISTERIAL PARLEY...

Minister of Humanitarian Services, Disaster Management and Social Development, Ms. Sadiya Umar-Farouk (left), and Minister of Interior, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, during a virtual meeting of the Federal Executive Council in Abuja…yesterday

One Feared Dead as Zamfara Schoolgirls Reunion Turns Bloody... Page 5

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

One Feared Dead as Zamfara Schoolgirls Reunion Turns Bloody Matawalle alleges involvement of watchman in girls’ Kidnap

Ejiofor Alike and Emmanuel Okonji One person was feared dead and others reportedly injured yesterday when a mob invaded the venue of the reunion of the 279 students of Government Secondary School in Jangebe, Zamfara State at the school premises.

This is coming as the Zamfara State Governor, Mr. Bello Matawalle, has accused the watchman of the school of alleged involvement in the abduction of the schoolgirls on February 26.

Matawalle has also disclosed that he was not intimidated by the no-fly zone declared on his state by the federal government, stressing that he was ready to resign if that could bring about peace in the state.

According to ARISE NEWS Channels, the broadcast arm of THISDAY Newspapers, three people were fatally shot when the reunion of the schoolgirls with their parents turned violent.

The report disclosed that at least one of the shot victims was confirmed dead while the other two were fatally injured by the military.

The incident occurred when locals took up stones and other weapons expressing outrage over the long speeches being delivered by government officials.

THISDAY gathered that the parents had waited for several hours before the government officials arrived from Gusau, the state capital, with the students.

The situation, it was gathered, went out of hand when the government officials started making long speeches instead of handing over the students to their parents.

“When the parents became tired of the long speeches, they went inside by force to take their children home. The approach adopted by security agents to restrain the parents angered the

youths, who started throwing stones, smashing windscreens and attacking people with weapons," a journalist who witnessed the incident told THISDAY. ARISE News also reported that the locals then invaded the school premises disrupting the process while government officials were still making remarks before handing over the students to their parents.

The Zamfara State Education Commissioner, Mr. Ibrahim Abdullahi, fled the scene immediately the chaos started while vehicles conveying journalists were attacked but no journalist was hurt.

Meanwhile, the state governor, Matawalle, has alleged that the watchman of the school was involved in the abduction of the schoolgirls on February 26.

The governor, who spoke last night on a live TV programme did not reveal the identities of other personalities behind the abduction of the schoolgirls.

He said information at his disposal indicated that the school’s security guard aided the bandits in whisking the students away.

“The children have mentioned that after releasing them, the bandits were telling them to greet the watchman for them.

They even mentioned his name that he is the one who gave them the go-ahead to come, that he was involved.

“They have said it in front of the Commissioner of Police in Zamfara State. I assure Nigerians that investigation will be carried out and all people involved will be known,” he said.

Speaking further, the governor said that he is ready to resign if that will end insecurity in the state.

Reacting to President Muhammadu Buhari’s declaration of his state as a ‘no-fly zone’, the governor said: “I am ready to accept any solution that will bring

security to my state.

“I am not intimidated. If I know that my resigning as a governor will make the people sleep with their two eyes closed, I can resign. I am ready to do what will bring security. I am not power-hungry. I have been having sleepless nights to protect the people of Zamfara State.”

Matawalle argued that he had no issue with the no-flyzone declared by the federal government.

He, however, insisted that the Security Council should have invited him before making some decisions.

There have been unconfirmed reports that bandits get the

supply of firearms via their conspirators who deliver the arms through aircraft.

Reacting to reports that the bandits got firearms through aircraft, the governor described such reports as a misinformation, challenging anyone who has any evidence to come forward with it.

“It is just misinformation and if anybody has that proof, he should prove it beyond a reasonable doubt,” Matawalle said.

He said: “I am a parliamentarian, I was in the House of Reps for almost 12 years, I know what happened during (the) Obasanjo (era) when he declared a state of

emergency in Plateau State, which was challenged and the Supreme Court reversed it.

“The emergency rule means that they shall put more security in the area so that they can flush out all the criminals.

“If the National Security Adviser thinks that he can do something about it, let all the states, all the northern states that are affected (by banditry) be put on emergency, All the governors will welcome that because all we need is how these bad elements can be flushed out.”

Matawalle also disclosed that those who abducted the schoolgirls from Government Secondary School, Jangebe are

of Hausa and Fulani ethnicity.

According to him, “They say most of them are Hausa and some of them are Fulani. In fact, they even asked the school children to pray for them. So, they say they are of different entities contrary to the thought that they are all Fulani.

“Some reporters have interviewed some of the girls who have identified some of these guys (kidnappers). In fact, one of the girls told us that she knows one of them who is Hausa and used to come to Jangebe market. She promised that any time he comes to Jangebe market she will be able to identify him and point him out to the security.”

VISIT TO COAL CITY...

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) (left) and Enugu State Governor, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, during a reception for the vice president in Enugu…yesterday

FG: We’ve Cleaned up 15 Sites in Ogoniland Approves N6.04bn water projects for four LGAs in Rivers Deji Elumoye in Abuja The federal government yesterday put the total number of oil-polluted sites that have been cleaned up in Ogoniland in Rivers State at 15.

Minister of the Environment, Mr. Muhammad Mahmoud, while answering reporters’ questions at the end of the weekly virtual meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at the State House, in Abuja, also stated that the council approved N6.04 billion for the provision of potable water in the four local government areas of Ogoniland namely Gokana, Khana, Eleme and Tai in Rivers State.

He said the cleaning up of the oil pollution sites in Ogoniland was delayed by a year which informed why

only 15 sites had been certified clean so far.

He said he met with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) over the matter before approaching President Muhammadu Buhari who approved the adjustment of the contract for the cleanup to commence.

He said: "We had some delays. And this was evident when we came to assess the project and we went all the way to Geneva and met United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) that designed the project, conducted the studies and make recommendations.

"When we came back, I went and explained to Mr. President that according to their record, we were behind by just one year. And we sought approval

to make some changes, and he graciously approved. And we have made those changes.

And between then and now, 15 sites have been cleaned up and certified clean.

So there was a delay of one year Yes, but then we have progressed. Now I can say that within the last year, we have done up to 15. So there's a tremendous amount of progress.

"And we are trying to push to catch up with the time, still maybe behind by months. But this is a project that you want to take time to do and do it well. we are talking about the livelihood of people contaminated soil by hydrocarbons, these are cancer-causing chemicals, or we call them carcinogens."

Mahmood stated that the

local communities in Ogoniland did not help matters as they prevented government officials and contractors from accessing their areas for clean-up to progress.

He, however, added that 36 additional contracts had been awarded for the total clean-up of Ogoniland.

"So, you have these hiccups from the beginning and maybe from the beginning and also you have issues also in the area, you know because there are some issues with the land, maybe communities that are in dispute or not letting us access as they should and all that stuff. These are really some of the reasons but I wish to tell you that we have awarded additional contracts about 36 "It took us about five to six months to even access some of

the sites that have already been contracted out because some communities are in dispute and will not let us go into the land even commence the cleanup until just recently, not more than three months ago, that we're able to get them to understand we're not there for land dispute, but for cleanup, and once you get the cleanup is done, whoever gets the land, gets a clean land," he stated The minister also said the FEC meeting approved N6.04 billion for the supply of water to the four local government councils that make up Ogoniland.

This, he said, was a followup to the cleanup of the oil polluted areas of Ogoniland.

"If you recall, the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, otherwise

known as HYPREP, was commissioned in 2016 to clean Ogoniland, impacted areas of Ogoniland, based on a report by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

"The mandate of the project is not just cleaning up the contaminated areas by oil pollution, but also to provide drinking water and to also provide alternative livelihood for the people of that area.

"The water projects are at different prices and also different completion periods, I think ranging from six months all the way to nine months, depending on the atmosphere. It's rehabilitation and construction and some of these will link with the River State Government's water system," the minister said.

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FG Approves Establishment of SIM Swap Centres in 774 LGs Extends licences of NIN enrolment agents Emmanuel Okonji in Lagos and Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja The federal government has granted Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) approval to establish dedicated SIM swap centres in the 774 local government areas in the country.

SIM swap is a new initiative to allow subscribers to change from one network to another while retaining the same phone number.

The federal government also approved the extension of the tenure of the National Identity Number (NIN) enrolment agents' licences for MNOs from one to five years, having considered their performances so far satisfactory.

It, however, stated that their operations would be subjected to continuous monitoring.

A joint statement by the Director of Public Affairs of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde and the Head of Corporate Communications of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Mr. Kayode Adegoke, conveyed the government's decisions.

According to the statement, the approval was confirmed by the Ministerial Task Force on the NIN-SIM registration after its fourth review meeting in Abuja.

The meeting was

chaired by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, with key stakeholders in attendance.

Pantami said the approval was aimed at simplifying the enrolment process for Nigerians and legal residents, adding that the technical committee is mandated to complete the development of a new SIM issuance strategy that cannot be compromised.

This, he added, will ensure that there is no repeat of the past process which was compromised through preregistration by some agents.

Other resolutions taken at the meeting included tasking a multi-sectoral ad hoc committee to immediately complete the review of the processes for new SIM activations for legal residents staying in Nigeria for less than 24 months.

The membership of the committee was drawn from NCC, NIMC, Nigeria Immigration Service and the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON).

The statement added: “Furthermore, MNOs that already have service centres in important and critical locations in LGAs were mandated to upgrade these centres to a level where they can qualify as SIM swap centres in order to reduce the challenges associated with the SIM swap/replacement process for the citizens.

“The purpose is to bring

SIM swap centres closer to Nigerians regardless of their location.”

The minister tasked the NCC to work with NIMC and MNOs to come up with a framework for the establishment of SIM swap/replacement centres in each of the 774 LGAs in the country, beginning with

critical and feasible locations.

The statement said while briefing the meeting on the outcome of the recent Senate investigative hearing on 5G deployment in Nigeria, the Executive Vice-Chairman (EVC) of NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, extolled the minister for his presentation in which he dispelled fears

about the public health and security implications of 5G, as well as making a case for the new technology in the country.

Following the briefing, he said, all stakeholders unanimously agreed on the need for the country to deploy 5G technology.

The minister also thanked

Nigerians for their patience and compliance with the federal government’s directive on the NIN-SIM registration.

He assured them of the government’s commitment to continually take decisions aimed at easing the pains of the citizens on the NIN and SIM registration.

STRENGTHENING THE RICE REVOLUTION...

L-R: Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III; Central Bank Governor, Mr Godwin Emefiele; and Kebbi State Governor, Senator Atiku Bagudu, during the launch of 2020 wet season rice harvest aggregation and 2021 dry season input distribution in Zauro, Kebbi State…recently

PSC: No Section of Nigeria is Marginalised in Police Promotions Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja The Police Service Commission (PSC) yesterday dismissed a report that it is not fair to all constituent parts of the federation in the promotion of senior police officers of the Nigerian Police Force.

The commission, in a statement by its spokesman, Mr Ikechukwu Ani, said promotion in the police was guided by rules and regulations devoid of ethnic or religious considerations.

The commission was reacting to complaints and

petitions bordering on the marginalisation of some sections of the country in police promotions.

The pan-Igbo sociocultural group, Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo, for instance, had recently protested the recent promotion of senior officers, alleging that only one commissioner of police from the South-east moved up.

But the commission said it had since sanitised the processes of recruitment, promotion and discipline in the force and had ensured that they were

also governed by rules and regulations.

The commission added that it is on record that it has contributed to ensuring sanity in the recruitment of qualified Nigerians into the police where the principle of federal character is now considered alongside merit.

"The commission is a product of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and further consolidated by the Police Service Commission (Establishment) Act, 2001. It met at inception in 2001, a recruitment process that needed to be

made more transparent and inclusive through respect for the federal character principles such as advertisement of recruitment exercise, observance of equality of states and merit", it said.

It urged Nigerians to encourage their wards to not only show interest in recruitment into the police but to remain in the force so that they don’t create future problems for their geopolitical zone of not having representation at critical levels of the force.

"It is unfair and ungodly

for the commission to therefore be accused of marginalising any geopolitical zone of our country during the promotion of officers to the senior ranks of commissioners and Assistant Inspectors-General of Police since those that will be considered will be officers that remained in service to rise to ranks qualifying them for selection,” PSC stated.

The statement added that the police force is a regimented organisation with tradition and laid-down rules and regulations for carrying out its activities and

the commission has never deviated from this tradition except in very rare cases where the public interest will be served.

It said: "The commission wishes to reiterate that it will at no time consciously marginalise any section of the country in the promotion and deployment of senior police officers.

"The commission will continue to be guided by the established rules guiding promotions in the Nigeria Police Force in the larger interest of the Nigerian nation."

Osinbajo Urges International Community Not to Block Funds for Gas Projects Deji Elumoye in Abuja Vice President Yemi Osinbajo yesterday appealed to the international community not to block adequate financing for gas projects in Nigeria and other developing countries.

Osinbajo, at a meeting with a delegation of the European Union (EU) Commission led by its Executive Vice President, Mr Valdis Dombrovskis, on the transition to net-zero emission, said Nigeria would

explore the caveat in the EU green energy financing instrument to seek better ways of financing for gas projects in the country. ''What we see is a growing trend among development financial institutions to withdraw from fossil fuel investment and recently, the World Bank’s decision to cease funding for upstream oil and gas development. The new restrictions on financing downstream developments appear to be considered by

some countries in the West.

We believe that well-intended as some of these actions may be, it is clear to us that they would disregard the importance of gas as a means of urgently addressing energy poverty for us and countries such as ours,'' he added.

Osinbajo also advocated more effective engagements for the net-zero emission.

He said: ''A point which I think we can talk about is the sort of support that we hope

to get from the EU, especially with respect to ensuring that we meet our commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050.

Our commitment to energy transition is firm and we think that for us, it is an area of comparative advantage. So, we are hoping to leverage that. I think that we will again be very happy to work on improving the investment environment to ensure that we are able to work as much as possible with the EU partners. ''A just transition to net-

zero emissions, probably one where gas as a fossil fuel is still supported, especially for those of us in this part of the world, is absolutely important, especially as it will enable us to phase-out more polluting fuels such as coal and diesel.''

On his part, Dombrovskis spoke on the importance of reviewing investment agreements between Nigeria and the EU, saying that the commission plans to increase its external investment

capacities.

On the call for sustained financing of gas investments, he said the decision to phase out investments in fossil fuels was in line with the organisation’s policy on promoting green energy initiatives.

The EU Commission boss, however, urged the federal government to explore the caveat in the financing instruments to seek other ways of attracting investments for projects in the gas sector.

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PAGE EIGHT BUHARI ORDERS SECURITY AGENTS TO SHOOT ILLEGAL WEAPONS’ BEARERS State as a no-fly zone, alleging that it is a ploy to impose a state of emergency on the state by the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government.

Also, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed disappointment over what it described as Buhari’s prolonged silence on alleged moves to polarise the military along religious line by a Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Abubakar Gumi.

Giving further insights into efforts to battle banditry that's prevalent in the North-west, Shehu quoted the president as ordering the deployment of kinetic warfare against the outlaws.

“The president has ordered security forces to go into the bushes and shoot whoever they see with sophisticated weapons like AK-47.

“He ordered that whoever is seen with terrible weapons at all should be shot immediately,” he said.

On Tuesday's declaration of Zamfara State as a no-fly zone, Shehu said the federal government took the decision following intelligence that arms were being transported to the bandits with private jets.

He stated that the private jets are also used to cart away gold from the state to Dubai, which, according to him, prompted the ban on mining activities, also announced on Tuesday.

“These jets are being used to pick up gold that is being mined in some parts of Zamfara and exported. This is strong because at the moment, there is a Nigerian gold market in Dubai.

"The government is losing, the people of this country are losing, that’s why it is said that gold mining is banned for those who are not made by the government,” Shehu said.

However, the North-east governors, at a meeting in Bauchi, tasked the service chiefs to come up with new strategies in combating the growing insurgency in the region.

The governors, who met under the auspices of the North-east Governors’ Forum, expressed concern that the insecurity in the country seems to be defying solutions, despite crippling all aspects of national life.

At the opening ceremony of the fourth meeting of the

North-east Governors’ Forum in Bauchi, the Chairman of the forum and Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, said in addition to the logistical and financial support the governors had been rendering to the armed forces in their fight against insecurity in the zone, they would consider the possibility of forming a security outfit, within the ambit of constitutional precedent and operational feasibility, as has been done in other parts of the country.

“If, and when we decide on a regional security outfit, the vigilante groups and Civilian JTFs in our respective states may form the basis for the outfit,” he said.

Zulum stated that at their previous meetings, they had identified most of the challenges facing the zone and outlined the possible ways of tackling them.

He listed the challenges to include insecurity, poverty, banditry, kidnapping, cattle rustling, gender-based violence and youth restiveness.

“The most formidable and by far the most daunting challenge we, in the North-east and indeed Nigeria as a whole, have is the current security situation which seems to be defying solutions and which has a telling effect on virtually all aspects of our lives.”

He, however, said with the appointment of new service chiefs, a new set of strategic initiatives is expected to be deployed to combat the security challenges.

Zulum expressed concern about insurgency worsening with the renewed spate of attacks on soft targets and innocent civilians. “We shall be expecting a significant improvement in the security situation in the sub-region and the country at large.

“As it is now, especially in Borno State, violence, being perpetrated by the insurgents, seems to be on the increase, both in scope and viciousness; and it has become a matter of tactical necessity for the new service chiefs to devise new and offensive strategies to counter the current attacks and forestall any future attacks,” he said.

He, however, stated that the commitment of the military to the war against the insurgency remains unquestionable.

But Zulum said: “With the

current escalation of deadly attacks by the terrorists, the various courses of action being pursued seem to have some limitations in terms of the expected impact; hence the need for a new set of pragmatic and result-oriented initiatives to completely subdue the terrorists and ultimately end the insurgency.”

He, however, lamented that the de-radicalisation of Boko Haram terrorists or Safe Corridor Initiative have not worked to expectations.

He said those who had passed through the Safe Corridor Initiative or had been de-radicalised, went back to rejoin the terror group, after carefully studying the various security arrangements in their host communities during the reintegration process.

“In addition, the host communities where the reintegration process is going on usually resent the presence of Boko Haram terrorists, even if they have been de-radicalised, because of the despicable and atrocious activities they have committed in the past.

“So the idea of deradicalisation, as currently being implemented, needs to be reviewed because the main goals and the underlying objectives behind the initiative are not being achieved.

"The best option is to immediately prosecute the terrorists, in accordance with the Terrorism Act,” he said.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, had said the urgency of the security challenge in the Northeast demanded an innovative and out-of-the-box security infrastructure.

"We must be honest in appraising the situation, be bold in confronting those who want to destroy our country and be patriotic in the choice that we must make to stop the enemies of our states. If we must be honest, the public opinion at the moment is that we have failed; that many of our compatriots have adamantly resorted to self-help in order to get away from this despondency.

"We must accept the fact that an over-internal-centralised security arrangement is an obsolete tool for tackling the monstrous and death scenario

playing out in our country, especially our region,” he said.

Mohammed stated that his predecessor as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister, who is presently Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir el-Rufai, had advocated the need for state police.

“Now, I agree with el-Rufai and other governors who have called for it," he said.

Extend Flight Ban to Benue, Taraba, Borno, ACF Urges Buhari The pan-Northern socio-political organisation, ACF, has urged Buhari to declare parts of the country ravaged by bandits and insurgents a no-fly zone as he did in Zamfara State.

National Chairman of ACF, Chief Audu Ogbe, in a statement given to reporters yesterday in Kaduna by the National Publicity Secretary of the forum, Mr. Emmanuel Yawe, said a similar flight ban be extended to states such as Benue, Taraba, and Borno due to rumours that helicopters frequently drop arms for bandits and insurgents.

Ogbeh said: “We also plead with the government to extend the ban to other states like Benue, Taraba, Borno where there are rumours that helicopters frequently drop arms for bandits and insurgents operating in these states.

“We believe that such an extended ban will curtail the operations of the criminals in these areas.”

No - Fly Zone Directive, a Plot to Declare State of Emergency, PDP Alleges However, the PDP has kicked against the declaration of Zamfara State as a no-fly zone, describing it as an attempt to impose a state of emergency by the APC-led government on the state.

The PDP also called for an open investigation of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno (rtd), accusing him of having a vested interest in the mining business in the state.

It stated that the level of insecurity in Katsina, Kaduna,

Niger States and some other states that are under APC control, is the same with that Zamfara State, yet the federal government didn't declare no-fly zone in the other states.

At a press conference in Abuja yesterday, the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, said the no-fly zone declaration was a sinister plot by the APC, which is the ruling party, to surreptitiously take over governance in Zamfara State through an imposition of an orchestrated state of emergency.

"Our party rejects this attempt by power-mongers in the APC administration to undermine and subvert the democratic order in Zamfara State by creating the impression that the state government, under Governor Bello Muhammad Matawalle, is to blame for the failure of the APC-led federal government to contain insecurity in the state.

"It is instructive to recall that the plot by the APC to derail the Matawalle administration and forcefully take over the control of the state started immediately after the Supreme Court handed him victory in the Zamfara State governorship election; a plot that heightened after Governor Matawalle refused the pressure to decamp to the APC," he stated.

Ologbondiyan also cited a statement by the party on December 19, 2020, on plots by the National Caretaker Committee of the APC, using an impostor, as a spokesperson, to heighten insecurity in the North-west.

He said the PDP had also warned of conspiracies by the APC to use the alleged impostor to destabilise North-west states, particularly Zamfara, by creating the space for acts of violence and blame it on Matawalle.

PDP urged the ruling APC to leave Matawalle alone and take up its responsibility of confronting bandits, terrorists, kidnappers and vandals, particularly those they brought from other countries.

"There is escalated banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and other forms of violent acts in APC-controlled states of the North-west, like Kaduna and Katsina; in the North-east of Borno and Yobe as well as the North-central states of Niger, Nasarawa, Plateau and Kogi, yet no attempt has been made

by the Buhari presidency to intimidate the governors of the various states, seek to impose a state of emergency or declare such states as a no-fly zone," he stated.

CAN Decries Buhari's Silence over Gumi's Comment on Military In a related development, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed disappointment at what it described as the prolonged silence by Buhari on alleged moves to polarise the military along religious divides by Gumi.

In a statement yesterday by CAN General-Secretary, Pastor Joseph Daramola, the association said that Buhari’s prolonged silence was tantamount to an endorsement of Gumi's statement.

CAN expressed shock, pains and disappointment in Gumi over his alleged profiling of military operatives while addressing some bandits in Tegina forest, a border town between Niger and Kaduna States.

According to CAN, Gumi was quoted as saying: “What I want you people to understand is - soldiers who are involved in most of the criminalities are not Muslims. You know, soldiers have Muslims and non-Muslims.

The non-Muslims are the ones causing confusion just to ignite crisis.”

The CAN described Gumi's allegation against the military as grave, evil, divisive, unpatriotic, ill-wind and reprehensible.

It added that if what Gumi said was attributed to a Christian leader, the security operatives would have invited him or declared him wanted and the presidency would have publicly condemned that Christian leader.

The CAN recalled how comments made by Apostle Johnson Suleiman, Dr. Obadiah Mailafia, Prophet Isa El-Buba and recently, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Dr. Matthew Hassan Kukah, were handled by government agents, who hounded the Christian leaders.

"We call on Gumi to immediately withdraw the unpatriotic and divisive utterances credited to him in the interest of peace and unity of this country," it said.

EMEFIELE RULES OUT FOREIGN INVESTORS’ EXCLUSION FROM OMO have been redeemed."

But Emefiele said there was no truth in the Bloomberg report just as he ruled out excluding FPIs from the OMO auctions.

According to him, the CBN considers FPIs as one of its important stakeholders and partners in the running of the forex market and the financial market.

“So, there is no contemplation and there would never be any contemplation of the exclusion of FPIs in the Nigerian financial market and the forex market,” he added.

In October 2019, the central bank had restricted OMO sales to banks and offshore investors, barring the participation of domestic institutional investors and non-banking firms.

He explained to THISDAY: “What the CBN did in 2019 was to ensure the exclusion of PFAs and corporates and individuals that are in the OMO market because the CBN felt that the cost and size of OMO were unbearably high. This has been achieved considerably. We see the FPIs as part of the sources through which foreign flows come into Nigeria.

“So, for anybody to say the CBN is trying to reduce the size of OMO and is planning to exclude FPIs is totally inaccurate.

This is a financial market matter and the only person who can

give responses on this issue would be the Financial Market Department of the CBN who are like the treasurers.

“Yes, the truth is that the CBN is a little bit concerned about the cost of OMO and that the reason the CBN took the decision it took in 2019, which substantially helped in bringing down the size of OMO bills as well as the cost of OMO. So, there is no intention to exclude FPIs from the market.”

He had at the last Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting explained that the OMO and various other instruments were part of the CBN’s monetary policy instruments to control money supply.

“We have our numbers that tell us the optimal level of liquidity that is needed at every point in time for the economy to be stable and for us to be able to do our work.

“We would insist on that optimal level of liquidity. If we find any amount above that liquidity, we would suck it up because that is our job and we do not have any apology for doing our work,” he had said.

Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) recorded a positive growth rate of 0.11 per cent (year-on-year) in real terms in the fourth quarter of 2020 (Q4 2020), which successfully lifted the economy out of recession.

The positive growth recorded in Q4 was a reflection of the gradual return of economic activities following the easing of restriction of movements and limited local and international commercial activities in the preceding quarters, the National Bureau of Statistics had reported.

CBN Facilitates Release of 50,000Mt of Maize Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has released 50,000 metric tonnes of maize into the Nigerian market.

A statement from the central bank yesterday said the development was in fulfilment of its pledge to reduce the price of the commodity.

It added that the initiative was done through its Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) to major poultry feed producers and poultry producers.

"The CBN facilitated the release of the 50,000 metric tonnes of maize in the second week of February has made an impact as the maize market has recorded a reduction in price from N200, 000 per metric tonnes to about N180,000 per metric tonnes. It is still anticipated that the current will further reduce," it stated.

It listed major beneficiaries of the February release to include:

Premier Flour Mills, Crown – Olam, Grand Cereals, Animal Care, Amobyn and Hybrid Feeds.

Others are: Zartech, Wacot, Sayeed Farms, Pandagri Novum and Premium Farms as well as the South-west, Southsouth, North-west and North Central chapters of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN).

"The benefiting companies represent the major players in the poultry value chain in the country.

"The release of the 50,000 metric tonnes of maize forestall the pressure and reduce the activities of intermediaries (middlemen) in the Nigerian Maize market," it added.

The CBN had in January, announced a plan to release 300,000 metric tonnes of maize into the market.

This was to bridge the shortfall in production and augment local production of the commodity.

The current shortfall in the quantity of maize available in the market that CBN is working on mitigating was attributed to banditry, drought in some parts of the country last year, hoarding and insecurity around the major maize producing belt of Niger, Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara and part of Kano states.

As part of the bank’s financing framework, the CBN facilitates the funding of maize farmers and processors through the

Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) Commodity Association, Private/Prime Anchors, State Governments, Maize Aggregation Scheme (MAS), and the Commercial Agricultural Credit Scheme (CACS).

Also speaking on AriseExchange, a programme monitored on Arise News Channel yesterday, CBN’s Director of Monetary Policy, Dr. Hassan Mahmud, clarified that there was no plan to ban foreign investors from the OMO auction market.

According to him, a CBN circular that was released in 2018 on the matter still subsists, saying foreign investors are still allowed in the market.

He pointed out that forex from foreign investors remains a supplement for capital inflows for the CBN. “The explanation I gave was as a result of the assurance given by the CBN Governor that any investor that wants to take out his fund on maturity, there is the assurance that they can get their fund. That was the assurance that I re-emphasised.

“The CBN Governor has said it severally that investors can get their funds whenever they want to exit. I, however, mentioned that in a period of crisis, this would have to be done in a systematic manner.

“It would not be done in a

day. I also mentioned even the backlogs were being cleared and subsequent build-ups would also be cleared over the period. That was my explanation. There was no referral that the Bank would bar foreign investors,” he clarified.

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Gunmen Kill Two Policemen, Kidnap Chinese Expatriate in C’River, Ekiti Victor Ogunje in Ado-Ekiti and Bassey Inyang in Calabar No fewer than two policemen were killed yesterday and their rifles stolen by gunmen in two communities in Cross River State.

A Chinese expatriate was also on Tuesday evening kidnapped by bandits in Ekiti State and his whereabouts were yet to be ascertained

by security agencies as at yesterday.

In the Cross River State incidents, the gunmen killed the policemen at two checkpoints at Ofatura and Onyadama in Obubra Local Government Area, in the early hours of yesterday.

There was an unconfirmed report that six policemen and a soldier were killed in the attacks.

But the state police command debunked the casualty figure, saying two police lost their lives while a third one was injured.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Irene Ugbo, a Deputy Superintend of Police (DSP), said: “It was two of our men that were shot and two guns are taken away. One was injured. They tried to attack other divisions but they didn’t

succeed. It was in Obubra that they succeeded.”

The attacks occurred barely one week after four policemen were killed at a checkpoint in Calabar and two of their rifles stolen.

Meanwhile, a Chinese expatriate was on Tuesday evening kidnapped in Ekiti State and his whereabouts are yet to be ascertained.

The man was said to have

been kidnapped at Igbemo Ekiti in Irepodun Ifelodun Local Government Area.

Gunmen were said to have waylaid the expatriate, who was identified as one of the experts supervising the construction of Ilupeju-IreIgbemo-Ijan road, at Igbemo Ekiti while driving in a Hilux van and abducted.

The latest abduction occurred barely three months

after a similar incident in the state in which two foreigners were kidnapped on the new Ado-Iyin road Confirming the latest incident, the Police Public Relations Officers, Ekiti Command, Sunday Abutu, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), said operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) had launched a manhunt for the kidnappers.

OPEC May Rollover Crude Oil Production Cut to April Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja with agency report Ahead of its long-awaited decision today, the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies, a group known as OPEC+, are considering rolling over production cuts into April instead of raising output as a recovery in oil demand remains fragile due to the COVID-19 crisis.

With the compulsory cuts, Nigeria’s production has dipped by 313,000 barrels per day since January while the country has been pumping 1.516 million barrels instead of its reference 1.829 million bpd, far lower than the target of 3 million bpd set by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) before the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, the corporation

has been focusing on condensates, which are excluded from the production curtailment to curb the crude oil supply glut and boost the government's revenue.

Although he admitted that reduction in output was in the best interest of the oil market, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Group Managing Director, Mr. Mallam Mele Kyari, recently stated that the cut had negatively affected the government's revenues.

But OPEC+ ministers will hold a full meeting today to decide on the output for next month, amid market expectations for the group to ease production cuts by around 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) from April, with OPEC leader, Saudi Arabia, expected to end its voluntary production

cut of an additional one million bpd.

But Reuters yesterday quoted three OPEC+ sources as saying that some key OPEC members had suggested keeping the group's output unchanged, with a ministerial panel meeting ending yesterday without making any policy recommendations.

It was not immediately clear whether Saudi Arabia would end its voluntary cuts or extend them, they said, however, oil prices jumped by about $1 per barrel on the news to trade near $64 per barrel.

On Tuesday, a document

by OPEC+ experts called for "cautious optimism," citing "underlying uncertainties in the physical markets and macro sentiment, including risks from COVID-19

mutations that are still on the rise."

It said a recent oil price rally might have been caused more by financial players than improvements in market fundamentals.

OPEC expects global oil demand in 2021 to grow by 5.8 million bpd to about 96 million bpd, which will still be lower than demand in 2019, which was about 100 million bpd.

Russia has been widely expected to push for more increase, but in February, it failed to raise output despite being allowed to do so by OPEC+ as harsh winter weather hit output at mature fields.

JP Morgan, which said it had spoken to Russia's representative on the OPEC+ technical committee, Denis Deryushkin, reported that

Russia saw some rationale in raising output as the oil market was in a 500,000 bpd deficit.

"Russia believes that if the output is maintained at current levels, the market would move into an even more severe deficit.

"As such, production needs to be restored, but the speed and amount are yet to be decided," it said.

Meanwhile, governments and energy companies are placing large bets on clean hydrogen playing a leading role in efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions, but its future uses and costs are highly uncertain.

"Without hydrogen by 2050, we cannot aim to be a net zero (carbon) economy," Royal Dutch Shell CEO, Ben van Beurden, told the CERAWeek online

conference.

The universe's most abundant element, hydrogen, has been touted for decades as an alternative to fossil fuels, but attempts to commercialise it for use in vehicles and industry have largely failed.

So far, commercial-scale production has been from natural gas or coal and it is a niche market used mainly in oil refining and heavy industry.

But so-called blue hydrogen, where carbon emissions from its production are not released into the atmosphere, and green hydrogen, which is made with renewable power, are attracting huge interest as a clean alternative to natural gas that can be used for heating homes, heavy industry and transportation.

Govs Meet Today on Distribution of COVID-19 Vaccines Decry persistent revenue shortfalls Chuks Okocha in Abuja The governors of the 36 states of the federation will today meet to discuss modalities for the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines that arrived from India on Tuesday.

THISDAY gathered that the governors would be briefed by officials of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) as well as the

Presidential Task Force (PTF) on the pandemic.

Over 3.9 million doses of the vaccines that arrived from India would be distributed to the states after the governors and officials of the PTF have agreed on the modalities for the distribution.

It was gathered that the governors would be relying on the states’ experience in the eradication of the polio vaccines in the distribution

of the vaccines.

The states, it was gathered, would ensure that they have the refrigerating facilities that would keep the vaccine in moderate temperatures that are suitable for the efficient performance equivalent of a temperate region.

THISDAY also gathered that the sub-committee of the National Economic Council (NEC) set up to discuss the shortfall in the revenue met

yesterday, where the governors raised questions over the declining revenue profile presented by the NNPC. According to a source privy to the meeting, who spoke to THISDAY, the governors raised queries for the NNPC to explain the shortfall on the revenue accruing from the sale of crude oil.

He explained that the NNPC officials at the meeting were not forthcoming on

how and why the nation is witnessing shortfalls from the sale of crude oil despite reports of an increase in the sale of crude oil.

Representatives of the Nigeria Governors' Forum had two weeks ago met with the Group Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC)

over the shortfall of revenue accruing to states.

The meeting according to the secretariat of the governors was at the instance of the last NEC headed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (SAN).

It is expected that the NEC sub-committee's recommendations will form the decision of the federal government on how to address shortfalls of revenue in the states.

high-quality assurance of the vaccine in order to ensure that the first batch reached targeted Nigerians in the first instance.

Nasidi stressed the need for equitable distribution and immunisation of the first dose of the vaccine.

He said the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak had caused serious health challenges for Nigeria and any opportunity to address the problem should be welcomed.

He added that with the arrival of the first dose of COVID-19 vaccines on Tuesday, Nigeria has joined the comity of nations that have received the COVID-19 vaccine.

Nasidi said: “Government must ensure that quality assurance is put in place by keeping the vaccines in good condition, while moving them from the central storage point to the zonal storage stores and to the state stores before finally getting to the primary healthcare centres.

The reason for high quality assurance is to ensure that the vaccines remain good and

safe by the time they finally reach the primary health centres. So there must be a mechanism that will ensure quality assurance.

“It is easy to start celebrating that the vaccine has arrived, but the implementation process in the distribution and immunisation of the vaccine is key.

“In 1960, Nigeria excelled in the mass immunisation against smallpox pandemic and I expect the government to tap into that same experience in the distribution and immunisation against smallpox vaccine and do same for COVID-19 vaccine. So I will suggest that the federal government take advantage of our storage capacity to safely handle the distribution of COVID-19 vaccine.”

Another challenge, which he said must be addressed, is how to convince Nigerians to believe in the federal government and accept to be immunised with the COVID-19 vaccine.

According to him, many Nigerians, including some state governors, do not believe in the COVID-19 vaccine.

He suggested mass training of healthcare workers in order to achieve careful handling of the vaccine.

He said the four million doses of vaccine, “if given in two doses per person as recommended by the manufacturers would only serve two million Nigerians,” which he said, would mean that about 1.9 per cent of total Nigeria’s population, would receive the first batch of four million doses.

He, however, stated that Nigeria could immunise four million Nigerians in a single dose and wait for another 12 weeks to administer the second dose, when the second batch of vaccine arrives in the country.

He urged the Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, to decide how best to administer the first batch of four million vaccines.

He said the federal government must involve the state governments, private sectors, traditional and religious leaders in sensitising Nigerians for the distribution and immunisation of the vaccine.

FG: COVID-19 VACCINATION OPTIONAL FOR NIGERIANS people's rights to accept or reject being vaccinated.

Nigeria on Tuesday had taken delivery of 3.94 million doses of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine as part of efforts to vaccinate 70 per cent of the population between 2021 and 2022.

Preparatory to the vaccination, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) in a Tweet on Monday, had announced the launch of an online portal where people could register for the vaccination.

Already, President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha and other prominent Nigerians have been pencilled in to be vaccinated on Saturday.

Buhari and others' vaccination, which will be beamed live on television, will herald the launch of the vaccination campaign and is targeted at assuring Nigerians on the safety of the vaccine.

Mamora said: “Nothing will be made compulsory; it

is optional, nobody will be forced to take any vaccine.

Nobody will be compelled to take the vaccine because it is a thing of choice."

However, he said notwithstanding the federal government’s resolve not to compel anybody to take the vaccination, it would be necessary for Nigerians to get the COVID-19 vaccine immunisation since most countries might in the future pass a law that only those immunised with COVID-19 vaccine would be eligible to enter their countries.

“If that happens, it will not be a decision of Nigeria. You may get to a situation where countries may in the future pass a law that only those immunised with COVID vaccine will be eligible to have travel access into their countries. It is like the yellow card and some countries will not allow you to enter their country if you do not have a yellow card.

“Countries have the right to pass a law restricting people without COVID-19 vaccine from entering their domains in order to curb the spread of

the virus, and if it becomes a global law, then those who have the need to travel will be compelled to get immunised or face restriction,” Mamora added.

On the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, Mamora said there were parameters put in place for the proper distribution of the first dose of 3.9 million doses of the vaccine, which would begin with the states.

According to him, the rollout plan is for front healthcare workers, strategic leadership, the elderly and those with identified ailment to be the first to be vaccinated.

He stated that in each state, the lead agency, which is the NPHCDA, has identified those that constitute strategic leadership in the states and those that are frontline healthcare workers, adding that these are the people that will first receive the vaccine.

Speaking earlier on the breakfast programme, a clinical physician and virologist, Prof. Abdusalam Nasidi, had said the federal government must maintain equitable distribution and

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Declare Gumi’s Inflammatory Statements as Hate Speech, PANDEF Tells FG Names new national chairman

Udora Orizu in Abuja The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called on the

federal government to declare the inflammatory statements credited to Islamic Cleric, Sheik Gumi on the activities of the terrorists and

#EndSARS: Hoodlums Stole $2m, N17m from My Palace, Says Akiolu Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has alleged that the hoodlums who attacked his palace on October 21, 2020 stole $2 million and N17 million.

Akiolu, who spoke yesterday during the commissioning of the Glover Hall Memorial in Lagos, said he had avoided counting losses from the attack in public.

The monarch, while lamenting that Lagos suffered “huge” destruction, said those who attacked his palace were ignorant of the implication of what they did.

He also appealed to the federal government to assist Lagos to recover from the destruction, saying the state suffered from the aftermath of the #EndSARS protest than any other states in the country.

“I will support anything

that will move Lagos forward.

I have appealed to the federal government to assist Lagos with what we have suffered.

We host many people here, not Lagosians alone. The incident that happened here from October 20 to 23rd is so saddening.

“The destruction we suffered in Lagos is so enormous than in any other part of the country.

“Many buildings were burnt, including vehicles used to generate income. I can now say publicly that they stole away from my palace $2 million and N17 million.

“Those who committed the offence would not have done that if they know the implication. But as a father, I won’t place any curse on them.”

bandits as hate speech.

The statements include those inciting the terrorists against Christian soldiers and equating them with Niger Delta agitators.

This is just as the Forum named Senator Emmanuel Essien as its National Chairman an successor to Air Commodore Idongesit Nkanga (rtd) who died few months ago.

In a communique issued by the forum at the end of the meeting of its board of trustees and signed by the elder statesman, Chief Edwin

Clark and former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Chief Victor Attah, the forum called on the federal government to declare the inflammatory statements by Gumi on the activities of the terrorists and bandits, as “hate speech” and stressed the need for government to take urgent measures to call him to order.

The socio-cultural group condemned the expanding activities of Boko Haram, the audacious attacks by bandits, rampaging activities of herdsmen

and the recent upsurge in the kidnapping of innocent students in Niger State; in Jangebe, Zamfara State, and scores of innocent women, children and travellers from around the country.

PANDEF while commending the effort of security services in securing the release of some of these abducted persons, however called on the federal government to redouble efforts to its constitutional obligation to protect the lives and properties

of all Nigerians.

It assured law-abiding Nigerians of a peaceful stay in all parts of the South-South but strongly warns criminal groups and their sponsors to stay away from the zone in their interest.

The Forum added that it will work closely with the Governors of the South-South and Community Leaders to ensure that it puts in place appropriate security architecture to safeguard the security of our people within all lawful means.

Alleged N570m Fraud: Court Halts Trial of TROUBLED BY INSECURITY …

Borno State Governor and Chairman of North East Governors’ Forum, Prof. Babagana Zulum (left), and Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Oyo-Ita Indefinitely Mohammed, during the meeting of North East Governors’ Forum in Bauchi…yesterday Accuses EFCC of forum shopping Alex Enumah in Abuja The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, yesterday adjourned indefinitely the corruption trial of former Head of Service of the Federation (HoSF), Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita, and others over abuse of court’s process by the prosecution.

Oyo-Ita and eight others are being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on alleged fraud, money laundering among others to the tune of N570 million.

They pleaded not guilty to the charges.

However, the trial judge yesterday decided to suspend their trial indefinitely over what he described as contemptuous act by the EFCC.

The Commission had gone to another court to obtain an ex-parte order for the freezing of the bank accounts of the 4th, 5th and 6th defendants in the same matter before him.

Justice Taiwo, who described the EFCC’s conduct as “forum shopping” aimed at getting a favourable court judgment, said the anti-corruption agency’s conduct was reprehensible and condemnable and must not be allowed in the interest of justice.

He accordingly ordered a stay of proceedings in the trial until the EFCC and its lawyer “do the needful” by withdrawing the application before the other court.

The judge however did not fix any date for court for resumption of the matter.

Northern Traders Lift Blockade on Perishable Food Supply to South Northern traders have agreed to begin the supply of perishable food items to southern states and end the blockade of food trucks that began on February 25.

It was gathered that traders agreed to a partial suspension of blockage.

“The partial suspension was made by the dealers of perishable goods,” a source told THISDAY yesterday.

The Kogi State Governor, Mr. Yahaya Bello, held a meeting with the leadership of the Amalgamated Union of Foodstuff and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria (AUFCDN) in Abuja.

Awwalu Aliyu, an official of the union, who spoke in Kano

on Tuesday, said the decision not to supply food to the south was not to starve southerners but to protest attacks on their members.

Aliyu alleged that some members in the south were killed, maimed and lost properties, especially during the #EndSARS protest and the recent Shasha market crisis in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.

He had said the union preferred that farm produce go to waste rather than tolerate “continued attacks” on its members in the south.

The situation has led to an increase in the prices of food in the southern part of the country.

Sanwo-Olu Vows to Expose Cabal Behind Apapa Gridlock Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has vowed to expose the cabal behind the Apapa gridlock if they don’t desist from sabotaging government’s effort at ensuring free flow of traffic in the axis.

Sanwo-Olu said his administration is committed to ridding the Apapa axis of

gridlocks and achieving a greater Lagos.

The governor spoke yesterday when he unveiled the reconfigured Abraham Adesanya, Second and First Roundabouts on the Lekki-Epe Expressway.

He read the riot act to people bent on causing traffic on Apapa road, adding that

the electronic -call up system of trucks introduced by the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), last weekend, has reduced traffic drastically at the Apapa port.

Sanwo-Olu said: “The current situation in Apapa is what we promised our peoples; we promised to do everything possible to

solve the gridlock problem of Apapa.

“You can say it took us a year, but we did many things behind the scene. There was a federal government Taskforce which we displaced and then collaborated with stakeholders around that corridor. What you have seen is a lasting solution to Apapa gridlock.

EFCC Rearraigns Ajumogobia, Withdraws Charges against Obla Davidson Iriekpen The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday re-arraigned a judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia.

The embattled judge was rearraigned on a 15-count charge bordering on money laundering and breach of public trust before Justice Mohammed Liman of the same court in Lagos.

Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia

pleaded not guilty to all the counts preffered against her.

The prosecution counsel, Suleiman Suleiman applied for a trial date to enable the prosecution call its witnesses.

But her counsel, Mobolaji Kuji, urged the court to allow the defendant continue on the terms and conditions of the bail granted her earlier by Justice Rilwan Aikawa who had formerly handled the case before he recused himself from

the case.

Justice Liman, in his short ruling, ordered that the defendant continue on the terms and conditions of the bail earlier granted her.

The judge thereafter adjourned the case to April 21 and 28 respectively for trial.

The anti-graft agency had on Thursday, April 18, 2019, arraigned Ofili-Ajumogobia before Justice Rilwan Aikawa on an 18-count charge

bordering on breach of trust, false statement and unlawful enrichment.

Before her re-arraignment yesterday, counsel to the EFCC, Suleiman, applied to the court to withdraw the name of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Godwin Obla who had earlier been charged alongside Justice Ajumogobia.

The court granted the request and Obla was accordingly acquitted and discharged.

Fulani Herders Carrying AK-47 Should Be Treated Like ESN, Says Ortom The Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom, has said it was an injustice to clamp down on the Eastern Security Network (ESN), and ignore the Fulani herders who carry AK-47 rifles.

Ortom said the treatment meted out to the ESN, the security arm of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and its leader, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, should be the same for Fulani people who carry guns.

Speaking in an interview with BBC News Pidgin, the Benue State governor queried: “Why

should they allow Fulani from foreign land to come to Nigeria to disturb us?”

“No country will allow that kind of a thing. But here in Nigeria, it is allowed. And those Fulani people believe they can go anywhere and take possession of the place.”

Ortom said the free movement by the Fulani people into Nigeria can’t be done in Ghana, South Africa and Kenya except they have travel documents.

“That’s why we are complaining that the leader at

the top should not fold his arms but also talk about this issue. He should also make efforts to show that he’s our leader,” he said.

“It is not balanced that way, and that is what we are saying.

Didn’t they arrest Kanu who leads IPOB? They arrested him and I think he ran away, if not he would have been jailed,” Ortom said.

“So why are they not arresting these people in the forests? Don’t we have Air Force, soldiers, police, and the DSS? “Not too long ago, they

went after the Eastern Security Network. It is an illegal thing, and I support the government to clamp down on them.

“But why should they clamp down on them alone? Why should they leave the Fulani people to carry AK-47, AK-49 and even big guns that soldiers, police, and the DSS don’t carry in this country?”

“Why should they do that only in the South? That is injustice,” he said.

“Let everybody be treated the same way.”

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COMMENT

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

WHERE IS MURTALA NYAKO?

E

Olusegun Adeniyi urges the former Adamawa State governor to speak up in face of prevailing insecurity

NDNOTE: The foregoing is a recollection of my April 2014 column when, out of desperation for power, Nyako and fellow travellers could not separate politics from national security. And with that, they laid the foundation for contradictions that have led to the emergence of ‘freedom fighters’ who now populate the country, disturbing our peace.

As we inch towards 2023, we are likely to see many more Nyakos, desperate politicians who feed fat on the misery of the people of Nigeria yet do not mind pulling down the roof over all of us. Our challenge is a leadership either incapable or unwilling to deal with this problem.

It is all the more unfortunate that in 2014 a certain Major General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) made a vital intervention on this issue.

Buhari did not directly address the then Adamawa governor, but it was nonetheless significant that his invocation came two days after Nyako’s irresponsible statement. “We all must take close heed at this moment and recognize the severity of what is upon us. A small minority seeks to bring the nation to its knees through terror”, said Buhari before he added: “We may have our differences, but the vast majority of Nigerians stand united against the appalling violence committed in Nyanya and other places…These acts have no place in Nigeria. Those who commit them have no place in our country. The perpetrators may look like human beings. They may have limbs and faces like the rest of us but they are not like us. They have declared war against the people of Nigeria. Yet, with all the energy of their evil and ignorant hatred, they shall fail. The good people of Nigeria shall triumph.”

If as an ‘opposition leader’ Buhari could display such clarity of thought, you wonder why he has refused as president to stand up to the threat facing the country. By outsourcing responsibility to dogooders like Gumi and others who evidently have their own agenda, the country is now badly divided at a time we need unity of purpose to overcome existential threats. The politicization of security is no longer just the usual north-south game. It is now within the north, within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and between pro-Buhari and anti-Buhari elements in the same region. Most dangerously, the instruments of national security may have been infiltrated. Worse still, some northern governors seem to have forged an unholy alliance with criminal gangs, either in a bid to blackmail the federal government into seeing the menace of banditry as evidence of socio-economic marginalization best solved by throwing cash at it or for self-preservation. But can we continue to run our nation on the basis of subversions that have

CAN WE CONTINUE TO RUN OUR NATION ON THE BASIS OF SUBVERSIONS THAT HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THE WELFARE OF THE DOWNTRODDEN AND CAN ONLY HOLD US BACK FROM ACHIEVING PEACE AND PROSPERITY?

nothing to do with the welfare of the downtrodden and can only hold us back from achieving peace and prosperity?

With all kinds of claims circulating, nobody knows what to believe anymore. The governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle, says he knows those behind the kidnap of the Jangebe school children and that the bandits who carried out the operation were paid not to release them. He has not mentioned any names and one is almost certain he will not. It is a political game. Meanwhile, a video from Gumi’s stable is also in circulation where a bandit leader is saying openly that they were being armed by government. “I swear to the Almighty God that the government is the one arming us. We Fulani don’t know guns. We only know cows and how to rear cows. Cows don’t give birth to guns.

I swear to God, we just sat down and were supplied AK-47 by the government,” claimed the bandit leader in a video recorded on 19th January 2021 and released by Gumi’s media people. It is on YouTube.

There was no mention of which government (federal or state) security operatives cannot claim not to have seen the video. Unless their preoccupation is regime protection rather than national security.

In its story on Monday, ‘Nigeria’s Boarding Schools Have Become a Hunting Ground for Kidnappers’ the New York Times could not have put it better when it reported that “Northern Nigeria’s kidnapfor-ransom industry is growing, and it’s not just the well-off who are at risk. The new targets are poor villagers and ordinary schoolchildren.”

Unfortunately, President Buhari is failing in his primary duty of securing the nation. He is also failing in the politics of the challenge. A president whose political base is the north where he was once regarded almost as a god cannot explain how that region has given rise to terrorist formations constantly embarrassing him. There is also an inexplicable failure to rein in APC governors (regardless of the region they hail from) into a coherent political voice. The consequence is the calamity now befallen the nation under President Buhari’s watch.

In 2014, it was convenient for Nyako and his enablers to play the lazy politics of North versus South under President Jonathan in order to secure political power. Now that a huge swathe of the North is no better than ‘bandit territory’, to borrow a phrase once used by former federal permanent secretary and Northern Elders Forum spokesman, Dr Hakeem Baba Ahmed, everything has blown up in their faces to our collective shame as a nation. If Nyako and people who think like him have any conscience left, let them raise a voice against the current politics of deceit, the mismanagement of our diversity and the scourge of insecurity now undermining the very basis of our national survival.

THE GOVERNOR WE NEED

R

AbdulRahman Abdukrazaq could do more for the progress of Kwara State, writes Wahab Oba

uminating on the current state of our State, especially two years after the expected success of the O’toge struggle; some pertinent questions begin to agitate one’s mind, especially as we set eyes on the future. Does the kind of leadership being offered by Governor AbdulRahman Abdukrazaq conform to international standard principle of good governance? Is it the kind of government envisaged by critical stakeholders (at home and in diaspora) in the O’toge struggle? Is it the kind of governance that will truly bring us to experience the Kwara we all sincerely desire and silently pray for?

According to the United Nations, good governance must be participatory, consensus-oriented, accountable, transparent, responsive, effective and efficient, equitable and inclusive and follow the rule of law. Principles of good governance ensure that corruption is minimized, the views of minorities are taken into account and that the voices of the most vulnerable in the society are heard in decision-making. It is also responsive to the present and future needs of society.

Also, by international standard, government is just one of the actors in governance. Other actors involved in governance include critical stakeholders like the civil society organizations, organized labour unions, traditional institutions, religious leaders, political parties, opinion leaders, media, among others, depending on the level of government.

It is no gain saying the obvious, therefore, that quality leadership is needed for good governance.

And according to the 34th President of United States, Dwight. D. Eisenhower, “The supreme quality of leadership is unquestionable integrity.

Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, or in an office.” Established norms and characteristics of a good leader include, but not limited to, ability to communicate effectively, transparency, humility, emotional intelligence, accountability, creativity and innovation, empathy, delegation and empowerment.

According to Steve Jobs, the greatest visionary of our time, what separates a good leader from followers in order to get ahead in today’s fast-paced world is innovation. A good leader must be creative and innovative at the same time. He must be creative and think outside the box. Thinking out of the box brought out the establishment of Kwara State University, Malete and its campuses, the Harmony Diagnostic Centre, the Aviation College, the International Vocational, Technical & Entrepreneurship College, Ajase – Ipo, the Kwara State Internal Revenue Services, KW-IRS, and others.

The previous administrations were accused of autocratic leadership; they were alleged to be insensitive to the plight of the people; they were charged with policy of exclusivity and arrogance, among others. Put in the dock, can this administration score pass marks on the same scales of judgment, especially if measured according to generally acceptable international standards?

Partisanship apart, I am afraid to say that the answer is a resounding NO. And that should be a cause for concern. It should be a source of worry and quiet remonstration, considering the sacrifices by credible individuals to bring this administration on board; the great feat the All Progressives Congress (APC) recorded in the election of 2019 and the hopes Kwarans had at the start of a new government.

As I lay aside partisanship, let us also lay aside official propaganda, and ask ourselves if AA has measured up to the leadership test in running a dynamic state like Kwara. Again, a sincere answer will be negative, and that should lead us to begin our collective search for the kind of governor that our state truly deserves.

Come to think of it, AA has reneged on almost all promises made during electioneering campaigns and those made after inauguration. Is it the promise to bring civil servants salary at par with what he said was obtainable in other neighbouring states, or the promise not to disengage the now famous “Sun set” workers? Rather than pay minimum wage, sign freedom of information edict, the civil servants have been asked to sign an

oath of secrecy to protect “official secrets”. What are government’s secrets if not illegal insertions in the budget, illegitimate withdrawals and contracts?

This government is yet to explain, among others, what kind of research will gulp N35b as stated in page 11 of the 2021 budget estimates, and what exactly is the proposed N6b loan from commercial banks on page four of the same proposal meant for. What about duplication of capital projects in the 2021 budget proposal and the proposed N35b bond? There is a provision of N254m on page eight of the 2021 budget for ICT which was also repeated in the break-down of projects under the proposed bond. These are just few gray areas our government is still thinking of possible explanations.

I think our state deserves a governor who will speak with us on issues bothering our minds, not one who sees himself as all in all. But if those in the corridors of power today will be honest to God, honest to their oaths of offices and honest to their consciences, is today not worse than yesterday in public engagement dimension? Is it not the deliberate policy of exclusivity that is bringing alliances in the O’toge struggle to their knees? If we rejected yesterday because we felt it held the rope too tight, and today is showing a more forceful tightening of the same rope, should we not tell tomorrow we would not accept that as our fate?

We need a governor who sees himself as representing the interests of all the tendencies in the state, listens to opinions of others and acts on good counsels, sees himself as one of us and not one who is above us. We need a governor who respects us, our leaders and our traditional institutions. We need a governor who will take decisions not to satisfy his personal whims and caprices, nor vendetta, but that of the collective good of the people. That is the kind of governor we deserve in Kwara.

We deserve a governor who will unite us and not divide us. Again, if we remove the log of partisanship from our eyes, we shall agree that this present government of AA does not qualify as

the one we need. An administration that started with suspicion, and has failed to put its internal differences in order but instead created a state of insecurity is not the type we want. No doubt, there are issues among leaders of the ruling party, but what is leadership if not an ability to bring resolutions into disputes? But here, instead of resolution what we have is festering of the crisis.

Now, we are daily regaled with diverse allegations about the state of affairs in our state, in the media. The question again is, if we have this scenario in 2021, what shall we have in 2023?

Would we be able to say the governor we elected in 2019 has brought greater peace to us or that we have been brought into greater turmoil? That is why we must think of the kind of governor we would have going forward in Kwara State. At a time COVID-19 is ravaging our community like a thunder storm, our government’s reactiveness is putting the state on edge of a religious crisis. The Hijab dispute!

We don’t deserve a governor who sneaks in and out of the state, nor a governor who shows disdain for intellectual environment and engagement. The demands of governance today dictate we engage the brightest and the best among us to lead the way. We should have a governor who can engage others around the globe, extemporaneously, and not a teleprompter governor. And of course, this means we need a governor who is truly educated in all the meanings associated with that term. Our education reflects in our approaches to problem solving, our attitude to relationships, our choice of priorities. It’s about positive thinking and galvanising human and material resources for growth and development.

It makes you see divergent views as ingredients for development.

Can I see the benefits of education in the current scenario? I shudder to say, No! It is, therefore, time for us to look at the tomorrow of our dear state, and select a governor who can truly measure up to the history, diversity and status of Kwara. That is the only befitting legacy we can leave for the generation coming after us.

I have spoken as a concerned Kwaran.

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T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ Ͳ˜ 2021

EDITORIAL

RETURN OF FUEL SHORTAGES

Government should be courageous enough to deregulate the downstream sector

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t a period the federal government and organised labour were meeting to determine how deregulation of the downstream petrol sector should be implemented, long queues of vehicles have resurfaced at most filling stations across the country.

The development cannot be described as unexpected. Regardless of all the claims about ‘deregulation’ by the federal government, it is not as if we made any remarkable progress in the management A FULL DEREGULATION of our downOF THE DOWNSTREAM stream petroleum PETROLEUM SECTOR IS THE sector vis-à-vis arresting cyclical ONLY SOLUTION TO THE petrol scarcity CYCLICAL FUEL SCARCITY and long queues THAT HAS COME TO DEFINE of vehicles. We only glossed NIGERIA’S OIL INDUSTRY over a crisis and moved on expecting some miracles to happen down the line. As we predicted on this page last year, with the jump in the price of crude that has resulted in higher prices for refined products, we are now back to Ground Zero.

As a newspaper, we believe that full deregulation of the downstream sector of the petroleum industry is beneficial to everyday Nigerian. But we want this to be done with clarity, not in a deceptive manner. It is for this reason that we find the reappearance of fuel queues on our streets very appalling.

Consistently, the government has told Nigerians of its dire financial situation which means that it will be unable to maintain subsidy on fuel. It is also noteworthy that the government did not make provisions for subsidy in its latest budget. With that, the logical thing to do would have been to find an economic solution which full deregulation offers. So why are there no clear efforts in this direction? Why is the so-called deregulation tempered by price fixing which is antithetical

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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.

THE JANGEBE ABDUCTIONS

ver the weekend my adorable daughter Yuadoo slipped a paper painting to me; one off the many flashes of her lavish pool of multitalents and sheer brilliance.

It was the colourful picture of a chic girl shaded beneath a blue umbrella, and drowned in a flowing brine of colours.

As it’s wont of me, especially in recent times, this gift came as a soothing balm over the scathing emotional bruises incurred from the Jangede girls’ abduction saga.

From Chibok to Dapchi, Kankara to Kagara and now Jangede. Where next? I pondered.

Just one abduction too many.

As I looked at her a film of tears smooching my eyes, I thought of the agonies and travails of the said 317 or 279 girls, most of whom should be Yuadoo’s age cohorts, and of course like her, priceless jewels to their families. I wondered my predicament if she were one of the abductees, God forbid, as I queried my citizenship and responsibility, the essence of leadership and the survival of Nigeria as a country. Here is one girl child showcasing hers and just a stone throw away another’s is blighted, all in one Nigeria.

to what the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) is preaching?

It is simply unfair to Nigerians to get treated the way this government and previous governments have done on issues of petrol supply and pricing. We cannot emphasise enough the fact that an oil producing country should have no business with scarcity of refined petroleum products. To have this consistently go on is to conclude that we have poorly equipped managers running our national life and their decisions are hurting all of us.

In its usual style of public communication especially on oil-related business, and one which has failed to recognise that people now have real-time oil price movements in their palms, the NNPC has tried to explain away the reasons for the resurgent queues. The corporation is heaping all the blame for the scarcity on oil marketers who are being accused of hoarding petroleum products. The NNPC also claims that there is availability of fuel in the country. But rather cleverly, the NNPC has refused to tell Nigerians that it is the sole importer of fuel in a supposedly deregulated sector. Rather than point fingers, therefore, if anyone at all should be blamed for a breakdown in product supply, it is the NNPC. The corporation has also not told the country that with increase in the price of crude oil, it is expected that the pump price of refined products will correspondingly increase and that this is even more so when all other factors involved in the importation and distribution of petrol – lightering expenses, marine transport average and other administrative charges amongst others – are considered. Like we have previously advanced, we believe that a full deregulation of the country’s downstream petroleum sector is the only solution to the cyclical fuel scarcity that has come to define Nigeria’s oil industry.

All parties – government, organised labour, marketers, NNPC and Nigerians – must realise that while the best time to do this was yesterday, the next best time is now.

As a tear droplet strolled down my cheek from already flooded eyes, and my mind wandered acres afar, I barely heard her asking “Don’t you like it daddy?”

“I do”, I retorted. Yes, I truly did. I am happy for her talent and scrupulousness but sad for her hapless peers as well. Just like I do for Leah every other day, I’m compelled to wail for my Jangebe daughters too. This is sadly the tragedy of Nigeria my beloved country, where we’ve taken for granted the solemnity of our peace and unity, and mortgaged our collective oneness on the squalid alters of bigotry. We fail to ask questions because ours may be gored. Yet this administration has failed to provide basic security. Period!

Daily we ignore the throbbing echoes of silence, and daily we drift to our precipice.

I speak, for someday, just someday soon, I dare say, we’ll earnestly yearn for a country but then we may cry too late. Because, with the Jangebe 279 and the likes we arrantly waste our tomorrow through our conspiracy of silence.

Dr. Terna-kester Kyenge, Makurdi

WHO WAS THAT?

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parent has complained that her child’s teacher has not pronounced the child’s name correctly. The teacher shortened the name as the full name was apparently difficult to say. As a teacher I have faced this problem a number of times over my 35 years of teaching. Some names when pronounced correctly sounded the same as English swear words so roll call could be challenging. Some were just too long or contained too many consonants for me to pronounce easily and I always prefaced any roll call with the simple statements that I would do the best that I could.

I know that a mispronounced name can be annoying although not offensive if they try to do their best, but many students found Fitzgerald difficult to pronounce.

Apparently the “tz” sound is difficult in many languages. Some of the mispronunciations were actually funny but I tried not to laugh at my own name.

The main consideration is that people should do their best and that we should be willing to accept these efforts. Teachers already find the job challenging and most find parent feedback/complains only add to the stress. The world as a whole needs to relax in these times of difficulty.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

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THURSDAY MARCH 4, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

FIRS Lists Multinational Companies, Others as Enablers of Illicit Financial Flows Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

At a virtual conference hosted by the Independent Corruption and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) yesterday declared that multinational companies, banks and oil and gas companies are the biggest enablers of Illicit Financial Flows (IFF) and money laundering.

It said corruption and abuse of office by political appointees and civil servants also facilitate money laundering, terrorism financing and tax crimes.

Speaking at the virtual meeting to “Review the Report on Illicit Financial Flows in Relation to Tax”, FIRS Chairman, Mr. Muhammed Nami, said the service was striving to contain money laundering, terrorism financing and illicit flow of money from Nigeria in view of their negative impact on the economy.

He called for stiffer laws and regulations to be enacted to deter future illicit financial inflows by people determined to engage

in such acts especially with the new trend of virtual currencies which he described as ‘’a new typology on illicit financial flows.’’

The FIRS boss maintained that FIRS was implementing various strategies to curb IFF activities.

He affirmed that the service wrote to all commercial banks in May 2018, requesting for a list of companies, partnerships, and enterprises with N1 billion banking turnover.

He said 23 banks responded with a list of 18,602 enterprises, noting that 11, 830 companies were found to be paying some type of taxes while 6,722 were not paying taxes.

He stated that as at September 2019, N37.327billion was recovered from defaulting tax payers while action would be enforced against 4,500 companies.

Nami said the nature of tax fraud, IFFs and tax crimes include “payments of expatriates staff emoluments and remuneration and failure to declare for personal income tax purposes such emoluments to the relevant tax authorities in Nigeria; laundering of funds (often sourced illegally)

through real estates’ transactions to acquire property in choice locations outside Nigeria; illegal transfer of money out of the country via unapproved channels, (virtual currencies); mispricing of goods and services transferred between interrelated

Nigeria- based companies and individuals to offshore- based entities and individuals; profitshifting and mis-invoicing of imports and exports” He disclosed that “unwholesome practices of multinational enterprises,

financial institutions, and oil and gas companies remained the biggest component of IFF in Nigeria.

Earlier in his remarks, the ICPC Chairman, Professor Bolaji Owasanoye, (SAN), said it was imperative that the meeting

addressed ways to effectively curb illicit financial flows through riskbased approach to monitoring and audit, due process in tax collection, structured tax amnesty framework, especially the ones skewed against public interest, and data privacy.

A BOOST TO DRUG WAR...

United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)’s Country Representative, Mr. Oliver Stolpe (left); and Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. General Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd), when Marwa received a Video Teleconference Equipment donated by UNODC to House Investigates support the communication needs of the agency’s maritime operations, at the NDLEA’s headquarters, Abuja…yesterday Allocation of Crude Oil to Ortom Vows to Bring Killers of Suswam’s Brother to Book Comatose Refineries Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The House of Representatives has ordered an investigation into the allocation of 5.2 million barrels of crude oil to comatose refineries of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) under the Direct Sale Direct Purchase (DSDP) scheme from 2018 till date.

The House ordered for the investigation following the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance that was moved yesterday

by Hon. Abubakar Yalleman, at the plenary.

Yalleman said the contents of a report published in THISDAY Newspaper on February 14, 2021, brought to national attention the unfortunate details of how Nigeria’s crude oil was being stolen or diverted daily.

He said that approximately 5.2 million barrels of crude oil supposedly allocated to comatose refineries of NNPC in 2018 under DSDP operations are unaccounted for.

He also stressed that almost half of the 10.9 million barrels of crude oil allocated for domestic supply between June 2018 and

July 2019 as reported by the NNPC was either stolen or diverted.

Yelleman explained that the average price for Nigerian crude oil in 2018 was $65, which means that the unaccounted volume may have denied the country $339 million at a time of acute revenue deficit.

The House said it would like to find out the status of the 5.2 million barrels allocated for domestic supply in 2018 till date.

It demanded “that the committee on Petroleum (Down Stream) should investigate allocation of crude oil under the DSDP scheme from 2018 till date.

“Investigate crude oil allocation per refineries and the rationale for such allocation.

What happens to unutilised stock of crude oil in the case of a refinery with inadequate production capacity?”

The House also expressed worry about the spate of missing critical national revenue, observing that unless these leakages are plugged, they would deepen the national deficit and deprive the country of much-needed development.

George Okoh in Makurdi

The Benue State Governor, Mr. Samuel Ortom, vowed yesterday to bring the killers of Mr. Terkura Suswam, elder brother to the Senator representing Benue North East Senatorial District, Senator Gabriel Suswam, to justice.

Ortom said his administration would give security operatives

maximum support to ensure that the killers of Terkura are arrested and made to face the consequences of their action.

The governor, in a press statement signed yesterday by his Press Secretary, Mr. Terver Akase, stressed that his administration would not surrender Benue to criminals, and assured that killers and kidnapers operating in Sankera

axis of the state would not go unpunished.

He sympathised with Senator Suswam and the rest of the family, as well as the entire people of Logo Local Government Area over the painful death of Terkura.

Ortom prayed that God would grant the deceased eternal rest and give his family the strength to bear the loss.

Meanwhile, the Benue State Commissioner of Police has ordered for a discreet investigation into the death of Tekura and his aide.

A statement from the Benue State’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP. Sewuese Anene, said that information about the killing of Tekura and his aide, Solomon, was received by the police at 7.30 p.m. yesterday.

Court Orders Substituted Service of Alleged Harassment Suit on Ohakim Alex Enumah in Abuja Justice Taiwo Taiwo of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court Abuja, yesterday ordered the service of a suit bordering on alleged harassment on former Imo State Governor, Mr. Ikedi Ohakim through substituted means.

Justice Taiwo made the order in response to complaints by the prosecuting counsel, Mr. Stanley Nwodo that Ohakim was evading service of court summons since he got wind of the suit.

Ohakim and one Chinedu Okpareke were in the suit accused of threatening one

Mrs. Chinyere Amuchienwa.

However in a short ruling, the court held that the summons for the former governor, be pasted at the Abuja residence of the former governor, No. 60 Kwame Nkrumah Street, Asokoro.

“At today’s hearing, only the second defendant is in court; so,

the arraignment is stalled. I agree with the second defendant that the earlier the first defendant is brought to court, the better.

“I consider the application made by the prosecutor that the processes be served by substituted means at the last known address of the second defendant.

Edo APC Tackles Obaseki over Delay in Cabinet Appointment, Others Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City The Edo State’s Caretaker Committee Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Colonel David Imuse (Rtd), has declared that the unwarranted delay by the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, to announce his cabinet more than three months after assumption

of office is unacceptable.

Imuse described as inane the excuse by some of the governor’s supporters that he is busy searching for competent hands and bidding his time to avoid making mistakes, saying that it portrayed the governor as a dictator.

Obaseki, after he was sworn in for a second term

in November 16 last year, reappointed Mr. Osarodion Ogie, as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and promised to make all other appointments, including constitution of cabinet, by February 2021.

But the APC’s state chairman, in a statement signed yesterday by the EDO State’s Assistant

Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mr. Victor Ofure Osehobo, reminded the governor that the first week of March has arrived without any sign of constituting a cabinet, adding that Obaseki’s inaction has not only crippled government business but demonstrated that he is a man whose word is not his bond.

The judge had ruled in two motions filed by the two actors but were allegedly skewed in publications which cast the judge in a negative light.

He had in his ruling asked both parties to stay apart until the determination of the case to preserve individuals’ lives and that the petitioner should provide a suitable accommodation and other enablement during the period. But he said he was surprised that the media came up with a different story.

When the matter came up for hearing yesterday, Justice

Acha said the respondent had petitioned the Chief Judge of Edo State for reassignment of the suit but insisted that he stands by his ruling which he said was to protect the lives of all the parties involved.

He, thereafter, adjourned the suit to April 22 while awaiting the decision of the Chief Judge on the petition.

He said: “When you embark on a campaign of calumny, you are not doing the institutions any good. When you decided to malign people because of a matter that is not in your favour,

I think you are only destroying the institution.

“The journalists, I think they have a duty to be objective in their reportage, they must be objective and do proper investigation. A situation whereby they are doing the bidding of their paymaster will impinge on the integrity of their profession “It is correct that this matter was fixed for hearing today and today two motions were filed on behalf of the respondent the last was given to me this morning.

Two APC Members of Bauchi House Assembly Defect to PDP Judge Tasks Journalists, Lawyers on Protection of Institutions Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi Two All Progressives Congress (APC) members of the Bauchi State House of Assembly (BAHA) have decamped from the party to the ruling Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

The member representing Pali Constituency from Alkaleri LGA, Hon Yusuf Muhammad Bako and the member representing Udubo Constituency, Hon. Umar Yakubu, announced their decision to quit the APC yesterday.

Though Bako announced categorically on the floor of the assembly that he is decamping to the PDP, Yakubu was silent but his body language indicated the PDP in view of his praise of the achievements of the party’s led administration.

With the development, the PDP now has 11 members in the state assembly while the APC has 19 and the NNPP, one.

However, THISDAY investigation revealed that more of the members would soon pitch their tents with the ruling PDP in the state.

Davidson Iriekpen in Lagos and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City A judge in the Edo State High Court in Benin City, Justice Joseph Acha, yesterday cautioned journalists and lawyers to ensure they protect the integrity of their professions and the society they serve.

Justice Acha was referring to a ruling he gave on February 17, 2021 in a divorce suit marked B/47b/2020 involving Chief Leemon Ikpea who is the petitioner and Mrs. Agnes Ikpea who is the respondent.

THURSDAY MARCH 4, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

17

NEWS XTRA

FEC Approves N809.7bn for Road Projects, Others Deji Elumoye in Abuja The Federal Executive Council (FEC) at its weekly virtual meeting yesterday approved N809.7 billion for some road projects across the country; procurement of fire fighting vehicles as well as the

development of an application for design, development, deployment, and management of the National Social Investment Management System for the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP).

The Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola,

Commence Immediate Review of Constituency Delineation, House Tells INEC

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to commence the review of constituency delineation as enshrined in the amended 1999 Constitution without further delay.

It asked the INEC to carve out new federal constituencies especially in constituencies covering four local government areas to ensure fair representation.

The resolution of the House was sequel to the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance that was moved yesterday by Hon. Ndudi Elumelu during the plenary.

Presenting the motion, Elumelu noted that Section 71(b) of the 1999 Constitution

as amended empowered the INEC to divide the federation into 360 federal constituencies for the purpose of elections into the House of Representatives.

He pointed out that Section 73(1) expressly directed INEC to review the division of states of the federation into federal constituencies at intervals of not less than 10 years, and may alter the constituencies in accordance with the provisions of this section to such extent as it may consider desirable in the light of the review.

Elumelu said Section 49 provided that the House should consist of 360 members representing 360 constituencies of nearly equal population as far as possible, provided that no constituency shall fall within more than one state.

told journalists at the end of the 36th FEC meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari that the council approved the change of scope for the construction of the 375 kilometre Abuja-KadunaKano highway, saying the road is still undergoing renovation, and would now be completely reconstructed, thus increasing the cost of the project from N155 billion to N797.2 billion.

According to him, “I presented on behalf of the Ministry of Works and Housing, one memorandum and one report. The memo was with respect to the Abuja-Kaduna-

Zaria-Kano highway, which was to change the scope of works from rehabilitation previously awarded because many parts of the pavement had deteriorated, to full reconstructed two lanes on both sides.

“The council considered and approved the request for that change of scope and the incidental cost consequence, changing the existing contract for N155 billion to N797.236 billion to provide for the full reconstruction of the main carriage way, trailer parks, way bridges, toll stations and additional side lanes in the built-up areas across the FCT,

Niger Kaduna and Kano States, which are all served by the road, and this was approved by the council for the same contractor.”

The minister listed the federal roads already rehabilitated, which would soon be handed over to the government, to include Benin-Asaba, Abuja-Lokoja, Kano-Katsina, Onitsha-Aba, Sagamu-Benin, Kano-Maiduguri, Enugu-Port Harcourt, Ilorin-Jebba and Lagos-Badagary roads.

On the particular time, the road will be delivered, Fashola said: “The completion is going to be in phases so the first phase will be the Kaduna-Zaria section,

which is 74 kilometres, to be ready in quarter four of 2022; the next phase the Zaria-Kano section, which is 137 km, to be ready in quarter one of 2023, and the last phase will be the Abuja-Kaduna section which should be in quarter two of 2023.”

FEC also approved the sum of N10.4 billion for the procurement of 44 fire fighting vehicles and equipment for the Federal Fire Service.

Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, told journalists that: “The council considered and approved the procurement of various firefighting equipment.

Healthplus Founder Sacks CEO, Others, Moves to Take over Dike Onwuamaeze

The Founder of the Health Plus Limited (HPL), Mrs. Bukky George, has ordered the Chief Transformation Officer (CTO) of the HPL, Mr. Chidi Okoro and other agents of the Alta Semper, a foreign investor in the HPL, to quit from running the affairs of the company.

The quit notice was contained in memo titled ‘Important- Update on HealthPlus Limited,” and dated March 3, 2021,which was issued and signed by

George, in her capacity as the chief executive officer (CEO) of the HPL, and addressed to “our esteemed stakeholders.”

George explained that the memo was necessitated by the recent withdrawal of the “No-Objection/Waiver,” by the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) that enabled the Alta Semper/Idi Holdings to invest in the HPL in 2018.

The memo reads: “The Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), the regulator of pharmacists and pharmaceutical businesses, has by a letter dated February 23,

2021, withdrawn its earlier “No-Objection/Waiver,” which facilitated the investment by Alta Semper/Idi Holdings into the Health Plus Limited.

“In the circumstances, Alta Semper and their agents (Chidi Okoro and co) are not authorised by law to manage retail pharmacy business in Nigeria. It has, therefore, become imperative for the parties to meet and agree on the terms for Alta Semper/Idi Holdings’ divestment from Health Plus Limited. We look forward to commencing negotiations.

“In the meantime, I am taking steps to regain operational control following which stakeholder engagements and the restoration of Health Plus and CasaBella will start.”

It should be recalled that an investment of $18 million

by Alta Semper/Idi Holdings into the HPL has been mired in controversy, leading to the termination of George’s appointment as the CEO of the HPL by the new investors who appointed Okoro as the CTO of the HPL on September 25, 2020.

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T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY MARCH 4, 2021

POLITICS

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

‘Restructuring Has Assumed Confusing Connotations and They’re Always Laced with Ethnic and Religious Innuendos’ Chuks Okocha holds a conversation with Gbenga Olawepo Hashim, which centres on issues of power devolution, restructuring, insecurity in the country as well as the controversial rotational presidency

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it, and they made good use of it for security particularly in West Africa and Central Africa.

The Nigerian government needed to have negotiated bilaterally with France for supply of higher grade of weapons than what was being supplied to non-state actors and on a concessionary rate.

This is not a war that we were creating in Africa this is a war that was being externally brought to the region. France and America did not clean up properly, so these are issues that I think at the level of foreign policy the Nigerian government needs to discuss with America and France. They are our friends, and we should have a bilateral solution, the intervention in Libya tilted the balance of forces, and it has increased insecurity all over West Africa sub-region and Central Africa not only Nigeria alone.

Now the question of the issue associated with herdsmen that’s another conversation from this big picture. You know, we must have an effective police response, you know on that front but one of the things that I think that is very crucial at this stage that can be done immediately that is local is the fact that we need to devolve power over policing to the states and local governments.

We must right now not next year, not 2023 we need to devolve on state policing, the president can do that right away.

ackground and incursion into politics I have been in business for about 30 years. I started public affairs in business and then went into energy sector, power generation, oil and gas. I’ve been involved in leadership since I was in secondary school as a prefect, and elected President of Drama Society, I was a student activist in the mid-80s up to the late 80s, I was also one of the pioneer human rights leaders in those days. I received the award of the Amnesty International “Prisoner of Conscience” in 1989. Basically, I did four years after the first President in South Africa, Mandela, I have been involved in politics too right from when I was a kid, when we were trying to get CO Adebayo (Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo) elected. We used to have our partings in our head we used to shout ‘CO, CO!’ Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo was the second governor in Kwara state then. I was elected the National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Democratic Party then in 1996 and elected the first Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in1999, and I ran as Presidential candidate in the last election.

Why did you leave the PDP? I was chairman of the NEC group of 54 NEC members precisely 1999-2000, and His Excellency, Dr. Chris Ngige was my Secretary, Ahmed Gusau who was former Deputy Governor of Sokoto State was my Deputy. We had a number of us, like late Harry Mashall. He was part of it. We had issues with internal democracy in PDP then, and we were contending on some constitutional issues. We were concerned that we were just coming back to democracy and should respect our party constitution. I think the major crisis was we were elected for two years but some of us wanted an extension of tenure to four years automatically without going through the process. Even though, we would be beneficiaries of it, my colleagues and I felt that we shouldn’t lay a bad example, so we fought against that extension of tenure. Then some powerful members of the National Working Committee (NWC) purportedly expelled us from the party. We fought back through the court. That generated a lot of bad blood, people wanted to capitalize on that, so we lost some mileage in the PDP politics and then one thing led to the other I couldn’t stay in the party again.

I had to leave.

The country has not witnessed the type of insecurity we are observing so far.The North against the South, the South against the North, the herdsman ravaging the country.

How do we get out of this ugly situation.?

The herdsmen issue; North-South issue have been an ongoing issue. We’ve been having some of these problems in the past. And it is part of the leadership crisis in this country. It didn’t just start under the Buhari-led government, but when you’re talking about the security issues that has to do with non-state actors, right, that is contending the security of the country, either in the North-east as Boko Haram or in the North-west as banditry and kidnapping and then the issue of the herdsmen and whathave-you. I think what complicated everything is one particular point that has been missing in all the narratives. And that has to do with the fact that there is obviously a balance of power disequilibrium that occurred since 2011 in most of West African sub-region and Central Africa that has tilted balance of power in favor of nonstate actors. And you are seeing that security agencies obviously are now not able to cope with the security challenges, which they were coping with in a limited sense though before 2011, and we miss out in this narrative because most of the issues now have been reduced to ethnic contestations. We are missing out on the big question. The big question is that when President Obama and President Sarkozy decided to assemble some Islamic militants from Syria and from all over the world, armed them and took them to Libya with weapons that they

Olawepo-Hashim must over throw Gaddafi, little did they know that they were essentially, creating a balance-ofpower disequilibrium in Africa. So, under the circumstances, where you now have non-state actors carrying weapons and having training and communication equipment that were of higher grade than the most armed states in Africa . They didn’t clean up Libya after the overthrow of Gaddafi. Some of these guys crossed to Mali, from Mali to Niger, Cameroon, Nigeria even up to Burkina Faso. Some of them are now advisers and trainers of Boko Haram, some of them are advising groups that are doing illegal mining in Northern Nigeria, these are essentially the ones that have really undermined our national security more than anything.

Now on the herders and farmers conflicts, this has been here for decades. They always end up in the emir’s palace settling themselves or in the chief palace in the South-west. Whenever Fulani people over ran the farmlands (and when you say Fulani people you are talking about Bororos, you’re talking about extremely poor people who are like leaving an aboriginal life like the Gypsy,). They’re are always in conflict with sedentary people, it is not a new thing.

Whether it should continue? It should never continue. But I’m saying that, that has been

ongoing and this is a different conversation from the dimension of non-state actors carrying more sophisticated weapons and always at the service of criminal groups in the forest areas, undermining the security of this country not only in the South-west or South- east is the worst even in the North in Zamfara, in Katsina. It’s not just in Nigeria, they are in Burkina Faso all over.

So to deal with that you need to upgrade the armoury you need to upgrade training. Nigerian needs to also have some bilateral talks with the United States and France. You must have a frank talk. These are supposed to be our development partners and the consequence of what happened in Libya has been dangerous all over Africa.

Unfortunately the Nigerian government at that time led by Goodluck Jonathan made a very serious strategic error.

When theAU was opposed to this intervention, Nigeria and Libya supported by South Africa, Nigeria broke ranks. I am not saying that as a sovereign country that Nigeria could not take a unilateral position but when you negotiate, safety measures should be included in such bilaterally talk.

I mean when US and France decided to hand non-state actors in the whole of Africa and the EU knew the consequence of it and analyzed

The assumption is that once an Igbo man or Yoruba man rotates power with the Fulani man or the Hausa man, there will be justice. No sir. We have 250 ethnic groups in Nigeria who will not be president under rotation of South and North, so it is not representational. it is not justice. It is not equity. Therefore, you will only achieve more confusion and I also believe that this is a false narrative that is being peddled around in the country now, as if you need such position before any of Northerner or Southerner can be called President. Chief MKO Abiola defeated Bashir Tofa in Kano without rotatory Presidency, Chief Obasanjo won votes in the North, without rotatory presidency in 1999, if you build a National platform, you can win election. When Shehu Shagari, was contesting back in 1983, he didn’t have the support of the major parties. Don’t forget that the big states in the North like Kano followed Aminu Kano, most big states in the South-east were following Zik, most big states in the South-west were following Awolowo

How will devoluation of power from the central police to the state contain these crisis ?

Some of all these problems started locally.

If you arrest them promptly before they assume national dimension and everybody is jumping in from different corners into what ought to be a different affair. They are not very complicated problems. They can be handled at local level before they start. One of the reasons why Nigeria went into civil war was the fact that policing had already been concentrated at the Federal level after the military coup of 1966, and you know interestingly that coup was not done by Hausa Fulani or Yoruba or

by Ijaw or by anybody. By nature, when the army takes power, it concentrates it at the center and removes the power from the sub-national authority.

So you find out that something that could have been handled at the local level became a national issue. So, if you devolve power, the governor of Oyo state would have handled what is happening in Oyo within the state. If he had a local police ,it would not have become a national issue that they will need to go and bother the President, the Governor of Zamfara, the Governor of Katsina.

Then the issue of kidnapping would have been resolved by state policing and the level of intelligence will be available to them at the local level. When you have something that is too over centralised, intelligence will come, before you respond things would have gone bad, some of these issues could have been handled at the local level, and I think we can. I think the President can send the bill to the National Assembly to amend the relevant sections of the constitution to ensure that Governors can set up their police force and they coordinate with the National Security Adviser’s office on modalities for this and the bill can be sent to all the states. If you’re doing it with the state governors, I’m sure that the cheapest resolution that you need is support from the state assembly can be there. In three to six months, you can finish with that. There are other critical aspects of the devolution that I have spoken about before that can be done now that you don’t need that the main ceremony of constitutional amendment and conferences. There are things you need to do just the way you brought your Not-too Young-to-Run amendment you can also get a section where we already have clear national consensus. Even in the northern states a lot of people want effective policing now it is not matter for next year.

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

19

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY MARCH 4, 2021

POLITICS

‘Anambra Families Come First’

DISSENTING VOICE...IN HIS OWN WORDS

David-Chyddy Eleke interacts with Nze Akachukwu Nwankpo, former Special Adviser to former President Goodluck Jonathan on Technical Matters on his aspiration to govern Anambra State on the platform Elliot Ugochukwu-Uko, Founder: Igbo Youth of the All Progressives Grand Alliance

The Food Blockade is Not a Sign of Peace

Nwankpo

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hy are you in the governorship race? What difference do you intend to make?

I am in the race because I think that what is missing in the state is a leader that is able to bring the entire Anambra people to play roles in the development of the state. That’s why I call myself “a facilitator”. You need to be smaller in the space, for the space to get bigger. Our state needs a leader who is not afraid of the successes of other people in Anambra State.

One who is not intimidated by the massive array of talents that we have. But one who is actually inspired by it. And is willing to reduce present himself for scrutiny. Because they are not going to come along with you if they don’t think that you are serious, or failed to present yourself for scrutiny. So Anambra needs a leader who is willing to stand under the bright light where they will see his skin, skeleton and everything.

Such that even as he stands under the light, he won’t be scared of the rich, the brilliant professors we have all over the place, the well-established traders or those our young talents that are breaking out all over the world. But instead he’s drawn to them like a magnet. You know that magnet doesn’t transform the objects it attracts to itself. It is not like acid that corrodes whatever it comes in contact with, he rather lets people come together to blend to evolve a massive successful environment. That is what is attracting me. That is what I think is, or has been missing in the state. The person that sees the state as an interactive platform where talents, gifts, potentials come together to create a home.

Why did you choose APGA, despite having been a prominent member of the PDP before now?

Specifically APGA offers the first fundamental of development. If you want to develop a people, there has to be some harmony in their overall environment. So APGA offers the state one harmonious political party under one God. Remember we are predominantly a Christian community. We have one party, one language, one God. We have a cultures that enables you work development. And globally, that is a standard that when a group of people grab it they make waves. With APGA, we are under one party, one God and one culture.

What is your opinion of the zoning formula being canvassed in the state?

Well, I am an advocate of fairness and inclusiveness. Zoning addresses both. It’s a business of people in leadership at any point in time. If you are not a legislator, governor, traditional ruler or church leader, it means that at that point in time God in His infinite wisdom has not given you a platform. Because it’s God that gives people places to lead. And I found out that at this point in our history, our governor, our legislator, our traditional

rulers, our church leaders -those people God has given platforms to lead Anambra State said that we would be better if we allow every zone produce a governor in turns. And it’s not unique to the position of governor. It’s something that appears to be in the culture of the state, because if you go down to the villages, town union leaderships are done in rotation. They balance it, as all the quarters will bring nominees to the executive. Same for the national and state assembly positions, etc. There’s always some form of zoning or rotating arrangement in everything that is done in the state.

When you complete eight years and want to go again, the people will say no; that you have to give way for other people to go. So those saying they don’t understand zoning are just being dishonest. If you go down to even their kindred meeting you will find out that the positions were always zoned. But now sitting in a corner of his compound thinking because they have made some money to buy a few SUVs that they use to run round the state, they then convince themselves that they can now ignore everyone. Come on.

That is not the way things are done.

Democracy is the rule of the majority, and in Anambra State, anytime there is an election a greater population appear to be coming from one particular faith. It’s actually democracy, not religious politics. However, if there are people playing obvious religious politics with it, then it’s necessary we address it. Again, because of their higher numerical strengths and voting along the line of the value of their faith, that cannot be construed as religious politics. I think it’s just democratic. However I think it will be unfair for any religion, in spite of any view that is contrary to the value of the people to insist they must have the position. That’s when it becomes religious politics, hence counter productive. I sincerely think that Anambra state doesn’t necessary fit that picture.

There are reports that APGA’s 2021 governorship ticket has been foreclosed, as the party has settled for a candidate, what is your view?

That is only a kite being flown that the ticket of the party had been reserved for Prof.

Soludo, but it is mere propaganda meant to dissuade others from announcing their intention to run. Soludo is a very brilliant Anambra son who is renowned and very well travelled. I once teased him by asking him why he is here (gubernatorial race), when he ought to be in the world space. I hear Okonjo-Iweala every day, doing all the things she does around the world, and we believe he should be there too. That is the kind of place that befits him. The notion that the APGA ticket is settled and reserved for him is a strategy to convince everyone that the APGA race for the ticket is closed. It is a brilliant approach, but it is not true. It is only a gimmick to scare others.

I have never heard the leaders of the party say that the APGA door is closed against other aspirants, but somehow, our great professor has convinced all that they should stay away, because he negotiated the ticket of the party many years ago. He is just playing a stunt that is making it look like everyone is demanding for him, but what you must know is that it is not true. I have tried the APGA door and it has opened, that is why I am convinced that the door is not shut yet.

APGA is a democratic party and very rooted in democracy, so I have no fear that the ticket has been reserved for anyone. Once, Obi was able to do that, he went everywhere, telling people that his reelection was the last wish of Ojukwu. It is the same thing that Soludo is doing today. He first made it look like he was being begged by the people to come and contest.

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Movement holds the view that the blockade of food supplies to the south by northerners is ill advised and a blessing in disguise

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he deafening silence of the political class and the elite club, in the light of the grave abnormalities enveloping the land, is worrisome. Could it mean resignation out of anger, frustration and disappointment? Could the deadly silence be out of fear and apprehension? Whatever, the silence is unhelpful and uncomfortable.

Never before in the history of this country, has frightening insecurity, crippling poverty and ethnic divisions become so intertwined, intermingled and interwoven to the extent that despair and fear of tomorrow has become the major discussion at every small gathering from Maiduguri to Lagos, Sokoto to Calabar and Katsina to Port Hacourt.

School teachers, civil servants, market women, farmers, artisans and students, nobody understands exactly what’s going on.

School children are abducted in their hundreds, food trucks are blocked from going South, technically-defeated Boko haram seized and holds on to Dikwa for a whole week, and successfully commandeering costly military trucks and other quite expensive equipment from our Army every other week.

Ethnic militias, armed bandits, ruthless herdsmen and kidnappers dominate the news.

Every nationality in every region fighting back from fright over the silence of the Presidency on the very deep claim by the Fulani that they own every inch of Nigerian soil. The silence of Aso Rock over that frightening claim by the Fulani and the backlash it created, threw up a new Nigeria nobody ever imagined.

A Nigeria where Yoruba nation begins to raise money for the new super hero, Sunday Igboho, a disturbing new Nigeria where skirmishes between the army and a security network leads to fighter jets being drafted to Orlu, an emerging Nigeria where every man runs under the canopy of, and defends his region, religion and ethnic nationality, while still pretending we are nationalists.

We turn a blind eye to the sad fact that travel advisories are issued against our country, that no foreign investor will draw near a country every body is advised to stay away from.

Our currency keeps getting weaker against every foreign currency, life keeps getting harder and tighter on citizens, as electricity tariffs, petroleum products and even food, keeps getting out of reach. And in the face of these difficulties, ethnic tensions, insecurity and unemployment continues to rule the land.

Politicos organise provocative and offensive birthday celebrations in Dubai and other exotic holiday locations in the world, acquire mind blowing properties all over the world and glibly tell us they are taking us to the next level.

None of the vicious kidnappers and bandits making life miserable for citizens are ever brought to book, rather they are generously renumerated, so they could actually acquire more deadly weapons, including rocket launchers, visited and glamorized by religious leaders, who warn us not to call them criminals, and goes ahead to exonerate them and blame their victims instead.

In all these strange developments, politicos are busy plotting about 2023 elections and husbanding scarce resources towards maintaining their stranglehold on power.

Non state actors have grown stronger and political divisions sharper. All the ingredients of a failing or failed state, starring us all in the face.

Now, judging from the tradition and style of the government of the day, everyone is expecting a military operation or series of military operations to commence, not faraway from now.

The big question remains: if past military operations failed to resolve the issues and restore peace and harmony, how come we still trust and depend only upon military

Buhari action against civilian population, as the only possible solution to our multi faceted and structurally inspired absurdities?

The silence in the land could be described as the calm before the storm. The artificial calm in the face of grave divisions, deep anger, nauseating nepotism, unbelievable insecurity and great hunger and suffering, could go bust in event of military intervention that’s never gonna solve our problems. At best, after the military intervention, the unresolved issues will naturally rebound in a greater and more complex manner, as shown by history.

The elite and elders of the land are forced to keep quiet and stay out of trouble, preferring to survive through influence peddling.

Every body knows the reason Nigeria is wobbling and almost at the point of implosion: the unitary structure imposed by the military and the unwieldy 1999 constitution.

Every body knows the constitution amendment jamboree embarked upon by the National Assembly, cannot and will not resolve the issues.

Every body knows that only a new people’s constitution, anchored on true federalism and power devolution, affirmed at a referendum will save Nigeria.

Every body knows that the biggest problem to Nigeria’s survival isn’t the multitude of groups, organisations and militias agitating for one thing or the other, those guys are merely the victims of the suffocating and unjust structure, who are simply reacting to the uncomfortable situation they find themselves in the only way they think they can.

Every body knows that the biggest problem facing Nigeria today are the holders of power, who for expediency and convenience, anchored on hubris and craving to perpetually rule and dominate others, refuse to accept the truth that Nigeria will die, if the political structure is not reconstructed through a fundamental restructuring that will throw up a new people’s constitution, effectively discarding decree 24 of 1999, aka the 1999 unitary constitution, inspired and drafted by the military.

We all know that the silence in the land is out of fear of the leadership of the land.

The truth remains that, the birth pangs are not signs of peace and joy, rather they represent signs of foreboding. This is the dreaded season of the calm before the storm.

Which brings us to the infantile blockade of food from the North, instituted and ostensibly enforced by the ethnic body that is trying hard to force Southerners to accept the frightening five year new normal of tolerating our mothers being constantly raped in their farmlands and our folks consistently beheaded and decapitated in their farms as a permanent feature and new way of life.

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20

FEATURES

T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ Ͳ, 2021

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, Tel: 07010510430

Re-imagining Nature-based Solutions in Nigeria Re-imagining Nature-based Solutions in Nigeria The British High Commissioner, Catriona Laing recently hosted a high level virtual dialogue on ‘Nigeria for Nature’, a climate change event to sensitise the general public on the benefits of a healthy ecosystem, writes Chiemelie Ezeobi

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o sensitise Nigerians on the benefits of a healthy ecosystem, the British High Commission in Nigeria, in collaboration with Wilton Park recently held a virtual high level dialogue on Nature-based solutions in Nigeria.

Themed "Re-imaginingature-based solutions in Nigeria’, the dialogue was hosted by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing.

Over 100 participants from Nigeria including from federal and state governments, Civil Society Groups, Non-Governmental Organisations and International development partners, took part in the virtual dialogue.

Dialogue According to Wilton Park, the dialogue brought people together from across Nigeria to discuss the relevance of nature-based solutions for building resilience to climate change, debate the major challenges around the implementation, governance and financing of nature-based solutions and how to overcome them, and examine how various stakeholders can work together for successful, sustainable nature-based solutions in Nigeria.

The dialogue also reflected on the role of Catriona Laing nature-based solutions for climate adaptation and resilience in the lead up to COP26 and as part of efforts to sensitise the general public beyond (26th UN Climate Change Conference on the benefits of a healthy ecosystems, which of the Parties), and what it will take to scale underpins global food and nutrition security, them up. and can directly improve livelihoods for millions in Nigeria, including citizens that are highly Frontline against Climate Change vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

They noted that “Natural systems are on the According to the high commission, discussions front-line of the fight against climate change, centred on the relevance of nature-based solutions both because they are impacted by climate for building resilience to climate change from change, and because they have high potential different perspectives. The major challenges for delivering multiple ecosystem services such around the implementation, governance and as carbon sequestration, livelihoods enhancement, financing of nature-based solutions and how to regulation of air, soil and water quality, and overcome them. It also examined how various pollination. stakeholders can work together for successful, “Nigerian ecosystems (such as mangroves in sustainable nature-based solutions in Nigeria. the Niger-Delta and savannahs in the north) are Key takeaways from the dialogue include: the constantly under threat from climate change, need for better monitoring of protected areas; impacting the wellbeing and resilience of the critical role of traditional leaders and women’s millions of citizens whose livelihoods depend on groups in ecosystem restoration; expansion of farming and fisheries. This risks undermining clean cooking to reduce deforestation; scaling-up economic development, pushing millions further education and sensitisation on the environment; into food insecurity and poverty. private-sector engagement for sustainable man“If Nigeria is to meet the Paris Agreement, agement of nature; explicitly linking Nigeria’s there needs to be a full-scale transition of its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) energy systems, and a transition in the way and nature; and the centrality of sustainable the land and ocean resources are managed. livelihoods to nature-based solutions.

Agriculture, deforestation, and energy are the Nigeria has been very forward leaning on nature main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in based solutions to climate change joining the Nigeria, but these sectors also have the highest Global Ocean Alliance and the Commonwealth mitigation potential.

Clean Ocean Alliance in 2019 and signing the “The UK recognises that healthy ecosystems Leaders Pledge for Nature in 2020. President underpin global food and nutrition security, Buhari made a statement of high ambition at and can provide direct livelihoods for millions the Biodiversity Summit in September 2020 in Nigeria, including citizens that are highly setting out a range of measures he wished to vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. In introduce e.g. establishment of two Marine the lead-up to COP26 in November 2021 and Protected Areas (MPAs). beyond, we will seek to ensure that finance, However, more innovation and cooperation are capacity building and co-operation are available required in transitioning to sustainable agriculture to unlock nature’s potential to help increase and land-use, improving ocean resilience and ambition for climate mitigation and adaption, coastal sustainability, and scaling-up other and that this is reflected in an enhanced com- existing initiatives and mechanisms, including mitment to implementing nature-based solutions those recognised under the Paris Agreement. at all levels.

The ambition of this conference was to explore “Nigeria has shown leadership on biodiversity how to take these actions to the next level. and has signed up to the Global Ocean Alliance, The introductory session on the first day Commonwealth Clean Ocean Alliance, High included remarks from Catriona Laing CB, Ambition Coalition for Nature and People, British High Commissioner to Nigeria; a video and the Leaders’ Pledge for Nature. However, welcome from Lord Zac Goldsmith, the Minister more innovation and cooperation are required of State for Pacific and the Environment, Foreign, in transitioning to sustainable agriculture and Commonwealth and Development Office, London; land-use, improving ocean resilience and coastal and an opening presentation on ‘Natural climate sustainability, and scaling-up of other existing solutions as a critical contribution to climate initiatives and mechanisms, recognised under mitigation in Nigeria’ by Dr Mohammad the Paris Agreement.

Mahmood Abubakar, the Honourable Minister “Through this meeting, we aim to develop of Environment. Sir Nicholas Kay, UK COP26 and consolidate an effective community of Regional Ambassador for Sub-Saharan Africa practitioners and actors to promote the design, gave the closing remarks for the dialogue on development and upscaling of nature-based both days. solutions in Nigeria.”

The Dasgupta Review of the Economics of Biodiversity, which was launched on 2 February Key Discussions was highlighted by several speakers. The review The two-day event themed ‘Re-imagining calls for urgent changes in how all societal actors nature-based solutions in Nigeria’ was hosted “think, act and measure economic success” to

Minister of Environment Dr Mohammed Abubakar Mahmood

Hassan Bukar, Director-General of the National Agency for Great Green Wall (NAGGW)

protect and restore natural capital, and use that capital sustainably. Estimating the total cost globally of subsidies that damage nature to be at least 4 to 6 trillion dollars per year, the Review highlights that subsidies and other nature-negative investments currently far outweigh the financial flows that support nature.

The dialogue provided the opportunity to promote a renewed and scaled-up efforts to halt desertification, deforestation and restore ecosystems, and encourage commitments to adopting nature-based solutions in Nigeria’s policies and programmes, including those delivering Nigeria’s NDC.

creating innovative socio-economic opportunities in Nigeria, adding that much of primary forest has been lost.

"Between 2000 and 2005, the country lost 55.7 per cent of its primary forest – giving it the highest deforestation rate in the world over that period. From 2010 to 2019, Nigeria lost 86,700 hectares of tropical forest, releasing the equivalent of 19.6 MtCO2.

"On day one, Hassan Bukar (Director-General, National Agency for the Great Green Wall), Ama Moses (National REDD+ Coordinator), Abbas Suleiman (Director, Federal Department of Environmental Assessment) and Rasak Adekola (Acting Director, Federal Department of Forestry) gave the opening presentations. Some desertification frontline states, REDD+ states, coastal states and states with high deforestation rates participated. Julian Wright (West Africa Senior Climate Change and Natural Resources Advisor, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) made a presentation on key areas for collaboration.

“On day two, key speakers included Sean Melbourne (Head of Climate Change and Energy, West Africa, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office); Dr Muhtari Aminu-Kano (Nigerian Conservation Foundation): Liana Vetch (World Wildlife Fund for Nature); Rasak Adekola (Federal Ministry of Environment); Engineer Shehu Bello (Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development); Mukaila Babarinde (Federal Ministry of Water Resources); Leye Kupoluyi (Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry Representative from ‘Nature Means Business’ Coalition); Richard Nzekwu (International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD-Nigeria); Muyiwa Odele (United Nations Development Programme (UNDP); Olumide Ojo (Oxfam Nigeria); Samuel Ogallah (Solidaridad Network); David Terungwa (Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP); Dr Ibrahim Choji (National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies), and Dr Rabiu Abdulsalam (Federal College of Land Resources.

"NGO Representatives that made presentations on day two included Prof Bala Dogo (Care and Action Research); Alade Adeleke (Environmental Management and Development Trust); Tine Agernor (Eunice Spring of Life); and Gloria Bulus (Bridge That Gap - Hope for Africa).

"FCDO representatives who made presentations on ‘How will nature-based solutions be funded?’ were Steven Gray (Regional Head – West Africa, UK Export Finance) and Ina Porras Economics, Climate and Environment Adviser, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. Other intiatives under the British High Commission-funded ‘Nigeria for Nature’ Project include Communitrees, Waste to Resource Empowerment Programme, and Cash4Trash Recycling Hubs."

UK Government's Capacity Building In the lead-up to COP26 in November 2021 and beyond, the UK Government will seek to ensure that finance, capacity building and co-operation are available to unlock nature’s potential to help increase ambition for climate mitigation and adaption, and that this is reflected in an enhanced commitment to implementing nature-based solutions at all levels.

The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing said: “2021 is a pivotal year for addressing the interlinked climate and biodiversity crisis. The upcoming Convention of Biodiversity (CBD15) on 17-30 May 2021 and Conference of the Parties (COP26) on 1-12 November 2021 will be seminal moments in the fight against climate change and protecting our natural heritage. These are global efforts but we must all do more at the national, state and local level to promote nature.

And by doing that we protect livelihoods, our health, ourselves.”

Nigeria's Commitment The Honourable Minister of State for Environment, Dr Mohammad Mahmood Abubakar said: “Nigeria is committed to implementing nature based solutions at all levels to address environmental challenges that threaten the well-being and resilience of the citizenry, and by extension, sustain and improve livelihoods, thereby brightening the prospect of lifting 100million Nigerians out of poverty over a ten year period, as promised by President Muhammadu Buhari. This, no doubt, resonates robustly with our strategic stakeholders and should continue to attract elevated endorsement in the lead up to COP 26 in November 2021 and afterwards.”

Presentations According to the Press Public Affairs Officer, British Deputy High Commission, Lagos, Ndidiamaka Eze, the virtual event held on February 18 and 19, 2021.

She noted that through the Nigeria for Nature project, the British High Commission is building awareness of natural assets through initiatives such as tree planting, supporting innovative recycling schemes to reduce pollution, and

21

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͳ˜ 2021

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

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Quick Takes Google.org Launches COVID-19 Tool

BOOST FOR SOLAR ENERGY SUPPLY

L-R: Operations Manager, METKA West Africa Limited, Peter Ogbejele; Business Administration and International Operations Coordinator, Ugonna Tony-Usidamen; Site Engineer, Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Evidence Umoru; and Business Development Manager, METKA West Africa Limited, Chukwuka Isichei, during the unveiling of the 1.35MW off-grid solar hybrid power plant in Effuru, Delta State...recently

‘Collaboration Necessary to Deliver Digital Payment Services’ Stories by Emma Okonji Financial experts who participated at the Nigeria Finance virtual forum, which held on Tuesday, have stressed the need for collaboration between fintech developers, the banks and the financial institution regulator, in order for Nigeria to develop and provide affordable digital payment solutions to customers.

In one of the sessions with the theme: ‘Partnerships and Infrastructure to Support the Cashless Economy,’ the panelists were of the view that collaboration would produce quality and cost-effective solutions that would enhance financial inclusion among the served, underserved and unserved communities in Nigeria.

Chief Executive Officer of

TELECOM Innovectives Group, Emmanuel Agha, said collaboration would profitably deliver last mile services in digital payments.

“The financial needs of those at the bottom of the financial pyramid, varies, and no single operator can provide the solutions that will address the myriad of financial needs of the people.

“Lack of collaboration will not only lead to high cost of operation, it will also lead to poor service delivery. Research has shown that collaboration will discourage a single operator to build and deliver end-to-end digital payment solution, which is always very expensive to accomplish and it will encourage combined value proportions

from different operators that will serve the end-uses better,” Agha said.

According to him, there had been a lot of distortions in the financial services space in the last few months because of lack of collaboration between the fintechs and the financial services regulator.

“The internet is universal, but payment is jurisdictional because there is a governing law within every jurisdiction that fintech developers must obey as service providers,” Agha said and warned against working in silos.

Addressing issues about how Mastercard is supporting the transition to cashless economy in Nigeria, Market Product Management, Digital Payments and Labs for Mastercard, Mr. Azuka Mordi, explained that

the COVID-19 pandemic also compelled businesses and individuals to adopt digital payment solutions.

Mordi said security gaps however exist, and has created fears in some Nigerians, who are still scared to use digital payment system.

Responding to questions on why Nigeria has the highest cost of in-bound cross-border transactions, which the forum said could hamper growth of digital payment system in Nigeria, Mordi, said “crossborder transaction in Nigeria is well regulated and cannot be compared with what happened with cross-border transactions in developed countries, because every market has its policies and the demands are different Continued on page 22

Experts Push for Local Content Devt to Support Economic Growth Raheem Akingbolu Nigerian professionals under the auspices of the Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria (APBN) have identified local content development as a necessary strategy that would take the country out of economic quagmire.

The professionals who spread across various sectors of the economy also advocated the need for economic drivers to engage APBN members in their areas of comparative advantage.

APBN’s President, Mr. Akin Oyegbola, who spoke at the second board meeting of the body argued that engaging indigenous professionals had become imperative for the

ECONOMY nation to realise its dream of being among the best economies in the world.

The meeting was hosted by the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB).

Oyegbola said the association would not relent in its efforts in ensuring that local professionals were given the much-needed attention in the country, adding that this would be achieved through constant engagement with critical stakeholders, especially those in government.

While advising the federal government against giving undue advantage to expatriates, over their local counterparts, the

APBN boss also called on the federal government to introduce a system of pricing that would aid economic development and ameliorate the resultant burden on the citizens.

“By patronising local professionals, in compliance with the Local Content Act 2010 and the Executive Order No.5 (EO5 of February 2018) the federal government is directly and indirectly sending a strong signal to the world that Nigerian professionals are no pushovers,” he stated While commending the federal government for being part of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement, Oyegbola, however, stressed the need for indigenous professionals to leverage the trade

agreement; since it provided them the channel of exploring varied opportunities in the vast African markets.

In an interview, the Guest Speaker, Dr. DanAzumi Ibrahim, expressed the federal government’s commitment to promoting and engaging competent indigenous professionals, rather than bringing in, indiscriminately, expatriates to prosecute jobs that could be handled by Nigerian professionals.

Ibrahim, who is the Director General, National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), stated that one of the ways the incumbent government had demonstrated

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DigitalSENSE Forum Holds in June

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Firm Partners Samsung

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“The theft of telecoms’ manhole covers will expose telecoms fibre optic cables, which could lead to theft of the cables or even vandalisation of the cables, and this could lead to disconnection and eventual loss of signals and all these will translate to poor service quality delivery in all affected areas” Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON),

Gbenga Adebayo Continued on page 22

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͳ˜ 2021

22

BUSINESSWORLD ‘COLLABORATION NECESSARY TO DELIVER DIGITAL PAYMENT SERVICES’ from each other.”

He however said Mastercard has enabled solutions that help to reduce the cost of cross-border remittances.

Managing Director, and CEO, Hope PSBank, Mr. Ayotunde Kuponiyi, said with advancement in technology and adoption of more digital payment solutions, the cost of in-bound cross-border remittances in Nigeria would become a lot cheaper and competitive with what is obtainable in other regions.

The CBN recently announced a new capital requirement and licence categorisation for payment service providers.

The CBN, in a circular signed by its Director, Payment System Management Department, CBN, Mr. Musa Jimoh, had put the new capital requirement for mobile money operations as well as switching and processing companies at N2 billion respectively. The circular was dated December 9, 2020, The minimum capital requirement Payment Solution Services (PSS) was pegged at N250 million while that of super-agents is now N50 million.

Also, Payment Terminal Service Providers (PTSP) and Payment Solutions Service Providers (PSSP) are required to have N100 million minimum capital requirement respectively.

The CBN had said the move was in line with its commitment to promote a strong and credible payment system.

“The new licensing framework offers clarity for new and existing market participants given the significant evolution and innovation in the Nigerian payment system,” it added.

EXPERTS PUSH FOR LOCAL CONTENT DEVT TO SUPPORT ECONOMIC GROWTH such commitment was through its Executive Order 5, which, he added, the government was vigorously pursuing.

According to him, the federal government was gradually moving towards the implementation of the Order, signed by the president, to encourage Nigerian professionals.

Group Business Editor

NEWS

MTN Records 37.2 Million NIN Enrolment Emma Okonji MTN Nigeria said it has enrolled 37.2 million National Identification Numbers (NINs) for its subscribers in the ongoing exercise of linking the number with the Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) card.

The federal government had as at February 1, 2021, put the total figure of NINs received by all mobile network operators, at 56.18 million, up from the initial 47.8 million NINs received as of January 18.

With the 37.2 million NINs received by MTN alone, the telecoms company has assured the federal government of its commitment to speed up the NIN-SIM linkage exercise, as mandated by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the telecoms industry regulator.

MTN said it had since commenced the process of bulk verification of all NINs received from its subscribers, with a view to linking all SIM cards on its network with the verified NINs. The former CEO of MTN Nigeria, Mr. Ferdi Moolman, gave the assurance recently, while presenting the company’s financial report for the year ended December 31, 2020, which was his last official assignment at MTN Nigeria.

He has since handed over

database, the development of which has reached an advanced stage.”

Moolman explained that in order to support the federal government’s effort to ensure that every Nigerian has a valid NIN, MTN Nigeria was granted a NIN enrolment licence and have commenced enrolment in 36 centres across the country.

“We are also working with

to the current CEO, Mr. Karl Toriola.

According to him, “To date, over 37.2 million subscribers have submitted their NINs, representing 48.7 per cent of our subscriber base. We are working with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to complete bulk verification of the NINs collected. This requires improved integration with the NIMC

NIMC and the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy to expand our enrolment centres and provide an access point for as many Nigerians as possible. To this end, we have acquired over 15,000 enrolment devices, which are being configured for this purpose, and placed orders for additional ones,” Moolman said.

On December 9, 2020, the

NCC suspended the sale and activation of new SIMs, and on December 15, 2020, it directed all operators to update SIM registration records with valid NINs with an initial deadline of December 30, 2020. While suspension of new subscriber acquisition continues, the deadline for NIN update has been extended to April 6, 2021 to accommodate logistical challenges.

COURTESY VISIT

L-R: National Deputy Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, Akan Michael; National Chairman, Kings Adeyemi; Dean, Faculty of Technology, University of Ibadan, Prof Olasebikan Alade Fakolujo, and Chairman, Ibadan Chapter of the Institute, Olayiwola Oyelade, during a courtesy visit to the Dean, Faculty of Technology, University of Ibadan...recently

Paga Targets More Customers, to Expand Beyond Nigeria Emma Okonji, Raheem Akingbolu and Dike Onwuamaeze The Co-founder and Head of Business Development of Paga, Mr. Jay Alabraba, has disclosed that the vision of the mobile money operator and international money transfers service provider is to eliminate the use cash by making it possible for billions of people to access and use money in and outside Nigeria without difficulty.

Alabraba disclosed this

during a virtual media briefing Tuesday, saying Paga has concluded arrangements to commence operations in Ethiopia and Mexico.

He explained that Paga’s transformative purpose was “to create an ecosystem that enables businesses and individuals to digitally send and receive money, and deliver financial services to everyone.

It is directed at eliminating the cash problem.”

“Even though this is not going to be eliminated tomorrow, but any step that we can take

to digitise payment for sending and receiving money is step to that direction.

“We intend to make it simple for one billion people to access and use money. We will be expanding beyond the shores of Nigeria to be able to achieve this dream,” he added.

The co-founder of Paga further disclosed that the company has about 17 million users across the country through its direct channels and its networks of 27,000 agents in every local government in the country.

He stated that Paga’s signon grew by 700 per cent per quarter during the lockdown that was occasioned by the need to control the spread of COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Moreover, “we saw an almost 300 per cent increase on merchants that adopted Paga as a channel to collect payments.”

Alabraba, said the core values of the Paga are collaboration, ownership, result, integrity and innovation.

“We like to think of ourselves as champion of diversity and

inclusion by bringing financial service to a mass market. But more importantly, we aspire for economic inclusion, which is all about creating jobs, helping small businesses to grow, developing opportunities for employment creation by these small businesses,” he said, adding that an average Paga agent employs about three people.

He, however, emphasised that Paga does not hold or trade on crypto currency that was recently banned by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

ALTON Expresses Concern over Theft of Telecoms’ Manhole Cover Emma Okonji The Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has raised the alarm over theft of telecoms’ manhole covers in Abuja and some other parts of the country.

Chairman of ALTON, Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, who spoke to THISDAY recently, said such act would not only cause great economic loss to the country, but

would also endanger the lives of motorists and pedestrians who could fall into the exposed ducts while driving or walking, since the manholes are located along major roads and streets.

According to him, it was recently noticed that some persons believed to be social miscreants, were removing the manhole covers that covered telecoms ducts in Abuja and some other parts of the country

for their selfish gains.

Speaking on the implication of their action, Adebayo said the telecoms infrastructure, which contains fibre optic cables and copper wire that has high economic value would be exposed, and that it also raises concern on public safety since motorists and commuters could fall into the exposed telecoms ducts, which are usually very deep underground, housing

telecoms transmission cables in the metropolis.

He said although the Federal Capital Territory Authority (FCTA) had to set up a task force to monitor and protect the manholes, he however called for further action on the part of the federal government to ensure that all telecoms infrastructure are adequately protected and to declare telecoms infrastructure as critical national infrastructure

that must be protected at all times.

“The theft of telecoms’ manhole covers will also expose the telecoms fibre optic cables, which could lead to theft of the cables or even vandalisation of the cables, which will also lead to disconnection and eventual loss of signals and all these will translate to poor service quality delivery in such areas and its environs,” Adebayo said.

into. Therefore, it is high time that we looked inward as a region. We should emerge to develop our strengths, most especially our resources and adjust to living without Aids.

“The post COVID-19 era packs a lot of benefits but how do we tap into these benefits? At this juncture, we need to utilise our youths positively; the youths are restless they want to learn a new thing, we also need to adjust

to the new normal especially in the area of technology.”

She added: “In our subsequent discussion, we shall also be looking at how member countries can work with ACFTA to their advantage. For instance, in Nigeria, we shall be addressing our fears on ACFTA and how these fears can be allayed. At the end, we will send our communique to the government which we believe they will act on.”

ÌÓØØË ÒÓ×Ë Capital Market Editor

Goddy Egene

Comms/e-Business Editor

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Tax Experts Chart Growth Path for Africa Omolabake Fasogbon

Asst. Editor, Money Market

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Senior Correspondent

ËÒÏÏ× ÕÓØÑÌÙÖß (Advertising) Correspondents

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Tax professionals across West Africa under the aegis of the West African Union of Tax Institutes (WAUTI), recently came together to discuss the way forward for Africa’s economy given the challenges brought about by the COVID-19.

At the WAUTI 7th International Tax Conference held in Lagos, the tax experts weighed

the impact of COVID-19 and accompanying trends on businesses and arrived at solutions to support recovery of economies in the region.

Speaking during the conference jointly held with the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), President of WAUTI, Olajumoke Simplice, maintained that for Africa to reach its set destination, it must be ready to look inward.

Simplice who was spoke on the theme of the conference: “Designing and implementing tax measures for the COVID-19 era and beyond,’ also stressed the need for Africa to reshape its mindset and develop its values beyond infrastructural development.

She said, “Africa is an emerging economy as well as the economy of the new century that we are moving

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͳ˜ 2021

23

BUSINESSWORLD

INTERVIEW

Blixell: Connectivity Critical Enabler of Social, Economic Change Vice President of Ericsson Middle East and Africa, Nicolas Blixell, speaks about how emerging technologies can enhance connectivity that will drive social and economic change in Africa.

Emma Okonji presents the excerpts:

W

ith the slow and steady growth of technology in Africa, how will you describe its potential and how does Ericsson plan to tap into emerging technologies to speed up Africa’s technology growth?

Connectivity is a critical enabler of social and economic change. Its dynamism constantly offers us new ways to overcome both global and regional development challenges. If leveraged for good, the introduction of 5G and expansion of LTE networks across Africa can accelerate this process exponentially. According to our latest Ericsson mobility report, LTE was estimated to account for around 15 per cent of subscriptions by the end of 2020.

By 2026 mobile broadband subscriptions are predicted to increase, reaching 76 per cent of mobile subscriptions, while 5G and LTE subscriptions will continue to grow over the next six years. The development of LTE and 5G digital infrastructure is an integral part of Africa’s growing economy and has proved to be an essential driver of an inclusive information society that integrates digitisation in all critical aspects of life, such as education, transport, health, energy and even homeland security. Ericsson has been working in close partnership with African service providers on 5G for tests in the laboratory, field trials, and now initial customer test deployment.

Throughout this process, our customers and their service requirements are our top priority. Our aim is to build a network to cater for current and future required services.

Businesses globally are looking for new ways to survive post COVID-19.

What role can Ericsson play in ensuring business survivability in Africa?

The pandemic has driven adoption and increased usage of many information and communications technology (ICT) services that have enabled consumers to build a new normal underpinned by connectivity. The massive disruption caused by COVID-19 has demonstrated the criticality of the network in today’s society and we are currently working closely with our customers to keep their networks running. The current COVID-19 restrictions have demonstrated the benefits of a digitised economy, facilitating working from home as an example. This could prove to be an opportunity for Africa to accelerate its journey towards raising the role digital and telecom services play in a socio-economical context. With our commitment to innovation and long history of engaging in Africa’s telecom industry, we at Ericsson are driven to deliver the next-generation technology solutions to Africa. These can enable sweeping changes to industrial production, allow seamless access to societal services and provide people with ways of living harmoniously with their environment.

Ericsson recently launched the #AfricaInMotion campaign. What does the campaign seek to achieve and what are the parameters for measuring the success of the campaign?

Africa represents a world of opportunity for us at Ericsson and we are eager to grow our business and presence in the continent. We see a real potential in African markets when it comes to 4G and Fintech adoption. To address that, we focus on supporting our customers in the African markets with relevant and cost-effective 4G solutions and services, all while adapting to Africa’s requirements. The continent has emerged as one of the strongest adopters of innovation, with the rapid rise in usage of technology and smartphones. Just look at how mobile money was initiated in Africa and is now surging all over the continent.

Moreover, Africa has come a long way

technology solutions and how have they impacted on business growth in developing countries?

Ericsson has highlighted digital transformation and innovation solutions to propel Africa towards the future with an interactive exhibition dedicated to Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, Fintech, Cloud, data centers and security. As part of our Africa in Motion campaign, Ericsson’s focus at the event is on building the networks of Africa and accelerating its digital agenda using AI and automation as value creators. Ericsson has also presented innovative solutions to improve the efficiency of its customers’ network operations, allowing them to focus on new services and technologies, and ultimately improve the experience for the user – driven by Ericsson’s Africa in Motion campaign.

Blixell

in its digitization journey – from mobile telephony to broadband, and from connecting to digitizing key economic sectors, jobs, education, healthcare, government and society in general.

We all agree that Africa is witnessing a major technology shift and the pace of change in Africa is becoming exponential. At Ericsson, we have launched #AfricaInMotion to accelerate technology roll-out in Africa together with our partners and reiterate our commitment to the continent.

Ericsson has had several campaigns for African countries in the past. How successful were those campaigns and what were their impacts?

Ericsson is working with key service providers across the continent, helping them create new services, new customer bases and new digital ecosystems. At the forefront of the digital transformation, MTN selected Ericsson for the deployment of a live 5G network in Africa.

As a partner, Ericsson is deploying next-generation technology with built-in customizations and innovations to deliver rich consumer experience while building a robust, future-proof network. The 5G-ready solutions in the Ericsson Radio System portfolio will help boost the capacity of MTN’s LTE network and broaden the availability of high-quality mobile broadband services for its subscribers. In a related development, Telma Madagascar switched on their 5G commercial network to offer subscribers high-speed services enabled by the new generation of mobile connectivity.

Powered by Ericsson, the 5G network is now live.

Most African countries, including Nigeria, are making preparations for 5G launch, amidst agitation from citizens for fear of perceived health hazards. How will you advise African governments on this and what is the position of Ericsson in 5G rollout?

The power levels of the radio signals transmitted by 5G radio equipment will be of similar or lower magnitude as those used in previous networks. 5G devices will be designed and tested to comply with established radio wave exposure limits.

5G base stations will be positioned so that the exposure in homes and public areas is well below the limits. Independent expert organisations have established the exposure limits for radio waves based on many years of research. The limits are recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO), among others, and include large safety margins. 5G equipment, whether it be mobile devices or base stations, will meet the same safety standards as the equipment used in previous mobile communication networks. World Health Organisation states: “From all evidence accumulated so far, no adverse short- or long-term health effects have been shown to occur from the RF signals produced by base stations” and “A large number of studies have been performed over the last two decades to assess whether mobile phones pose a potential health risk. To date, no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by mobile phone use.” This could bee seen in WHO’s fact sheets No 304 and No 193.

What

are

some

of

your

latest

Connectivity is a critical enabler of social and economic change. Its dynamism constantly offers us new ways to overcome both global and regional development challenges. If leveraged for good, the introduction of 5G and expansion of LTE networks across Africa can accelerate this process exponentially

How will you describe government policies across African countries and how such policies make or mar technology development?

A conducive, enabling policy environment that generates regulatory certainty is key to encouraging market development through partnerships, entrepreneurship, job creation and knowledge sharing. So we need factors like: timely availability of ample, cost-effective and harmonised spectral resources; support of long-term stable network regulations that uphold the principle of technology neutrality, stimulate investments and foster infrastructure competition; provision of free flow of data, while ensuring data protection, privacy and security regulation, to boost technology development. Ericsson has a long history of close collaboration with various regulatory entities in Nigeria. We at Ericsson Middle East and Africa are constantly looking for opportunities to collaborate and engage with partners across the board to facilitate such policy development to fast tracking digitization across the African continent and our recent collaboration with the African Telecommunications Union is one clear example.

What are Ericsson’s contributions towards the development of technology startups in Nigeria and other African countries?

Access to mobile services in Africa continues to grow, however, broadband access remains low in comparison to other parts of the world. We are working with customers across Africa to build best performing network intelligence and automation solutions for increased speed and efficiency. One of the initiatives we launched in-light of our efforts to supporting young talents is our “Ericsson Graduates Programme,“ a programme that will offer fresh graduates a chance to join experienced Ericsson staff for on-the-job, online and classroom learning followed by recruitment to join the Ericsson world.

The programme also engages with young talents from Africa -the Change makers-to explore and identify innovative ideas, that reflect and capture the needs of the continent with an ambition to accelerate the African markets’ digitalization journey. When it comes to empowering young talents and innovation, we can proudly mention the Ericsson Innovation Awards (EIA), a global competition that gives university students the opportunity to turn their ideas into reality by collaborating with EIA mentors.

In 2018, a team from Senegal was selected as the overall winner of the Ericsson Innovation Awards winning an amount of €25,000 for their idea that addresses lack of school labs in Africa. This year we are excited to launch the same competition very soon and we look forward to receiving ideas from young students from Africa and across the world.

24

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͳ˜ 2021

Building Brand through Empowerment Scheme Raheem Akingbolu writes on how promoters of Amber Energy drink appear to be gaining market traction through an empowerment scheme designed to lift both the brand and its patrons.

A

mber Drinks Ltd entered the Nigerian market at a time many analysts had dismissed the energy drink market as being saturated. However, while observers saw obstacles, the spin doctors behind the brand saw opportunities.

“We believed and still believe in the quality of our brand and were eager to come up with a far-reaching marketing strategy that would give us competitive advantage.

“Since the first day in the market, our determination is to grow the brand and grow the trade partners, hence the empowerment scheme through which we are lifting up our brand as well as the businesses of the patrons of the brand,” General Manager of Amber Energy Drink Ltd, Ms. Lola Adedeji, had stated at the 2020 flag-off of the empowerment scheme which was designed to create a bond between the brand and consumers.

This was the beginning of a journey that has consistently created the expected affinity between the Amber brand and the Nigerian market. According to the brand owners, the empowerment program is designed to empower students, retailers, startups and unemployed Nigerians At the maiden class, organised for 400 hundred Nigerians in the Start-up loan’ and two hundred Nigerians in the ‘Business Support’ program, Adedeji pointed out that with the current economy, Amber Drinks found it necessary to alleviate the pain of the average Nigerian by providing the opportunity for Nigerians to own and grow their businesses through soft loans and business support initiatives” With the goal to make Amber a legacy brand, Amber was launched in July, 2020 in an exclusive media event due to the prevalence of Covid-19 and other attendant government protocols with a promise to

impact the Nigerian market.

The expectation from watchers and players in the energy drink market then was that the product would just make a few buzz and fizzle out as some analysts said it was a ‘crazy’ risk to take especially at that critical period. Quite unexpectedly, the Amber brand has proved many doubting thomases wrong considering its massive penetration into the competitive energy drink market.

In an exclusive chat with THISDAY, Adedeji, provided insight into the strategies, growth and plans of the Amber brand in the competitive energy drink market.

Commenting on the phenomenal success of the Amber brand, Adedeji said: “I think for a new brand we have done quite well.

So, I know that if you ask one in ten people, they must have heard about it. I will say, one

in twenty five must have tasted the drink.

I think we are doing quite well and we are getting our feet in the energy drink market in Nigeria now.”

She added: “I always say that the brand takes on the nature of its owner. The owners of Amber are fearless, resilient and dedicated.

Regardless of what the situation is, we focus on our focus, where we want to be disregarding the obstacles. Or more succinctly, using the obstacles to our advantage, which is what we have done with the time when we launched”.

On strategies deployed to promote the brand at the critical period of Covid-19, Adedeji said: “We explored both Below the Line (BTL) and Above the Line(ATL) marketing; we have digital marketing and the main media marketing. The drive was to make sure that anyone who interacts with

our brand can easily understand what we are communicating. The next question is how?

“When you go on the landing pages of all our social media; on our website; you can even go on our helpline; these are all available to let you know that every step of the way you can get Amber to release the energy in you. In every aspect of your life, right from waking up from your bed Amber is available to stimulate the energy you need for each day. It is also there to unleash the energy in you to take you from one level to another. That’s what we wanted to communicate to our consumers.

Responding to an inquiry on where sees the brand in the future, the debonair serial entrepreneur had this to say: The amazing thing is that Amber is less than six months old in the energy drink market in Nigeria. When you ask about it, you almost get a response of a drink that is like two years old. That tells you that we have started making our marks in the market but our plan is to make Amber a legacy brand.

“This means that we are not rushing to do anything. We are taking it step-step to ensure that we are ingrained in your mind and we stay with you for life. Amber is available in at least six other states outside of Lagos and we are enrolling more states afterwards and then Pan-African. We are going to be all over Nigeria.

Speaking further on the empowerment programme embarked upon by the brand, Adedeji noted that the programme has been a phenomenal success and the brand is in it for the long haul.

She said: “We are going to continue to empower Nigerians. As at today, we have enrolled over 4,000 people. It’s an on-going project of a life time. It’s not a one-off. Every year, people are losing their job. So, Amber is always there to help people.”

NAFDAC Warns Importers, Agents against Malpractices Eromosele Abiodun The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has read the riot act to the clearing agents and importers operating at the nation’s ports.

The agency said the era of fraudulent activities has come to an end with a view to safeguarding the health of Nigerian populace and the economy.

The Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye gave the warning in Abuja, at a virtual sensitisation workshop organised for stakeholders in export and import trade activities at the nation’s ports which included National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Mine, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Nigeria Customs Service

(NCS), Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and Multinationals amongst others.

Adeyeye, however, reiterated that NAFDAC would not tolerate any unprofessional act from any of its stakeholders be it importers or clearing agents.

She added that the disturbing development where agents and possibly with the connivance of importers engage in falsification of NAFDAC documents will not be tolerated nor treated with kid gloves any longer.

She urged importers to always ensure that they make it their responsibility to initiate clearance of their goods.

The NAFDAC boss advised importers to desist from entrusting the entire process of clearance of their consignments to the agents,

stressing that whenever the agents run into trouble with the regulatory authorities, they would always want to cut corners, leaving the importer in the lurch at the end of a botched transaction as a result of failure to meet the requirements of the agency.

Adeyeye explained that NAFDAC has deployed various improvements in its processes that will ensure auto verification of documents presented to the agency during clearing, place in the hand of stakeholders the ability to verify the true status of clearance of regulated products.

The NAFDAC DG however, advised all importers and clearing agents to ensure that they complete every clearing transaction with NAFDAC up to the point of generation of NAFDAC electronic Release Notices.

She reiterated her commitment to the modernisation of NAFDAC’s processes and institutionalisation of international best practices in the way activities are conducted in the agency.

“I wish to appeal that you comply with the fast-changing updates currently ongoing in NAFDAC. These include the current issuance of electronic NAFDAC Invoices, NAFDAC Receipts, First Endorsement Notices and Release Notices.

“We are conscientiously working towards assisting stakeholders to achieve regulatory compliance by ensuring that these requirements are made transparent and accessible to stakeholders through the availability of Regulations, Guidelines, Tariff, and process requirements on the NAFDAC website.

“I have also ensured that we maintain transparency and continue the implementation of the Quality Management Systems in our Ports processes. This has led to a review and update of existing Standards Operating Procedures (SOP) and implementation of strategic QMS activities for ISO 9001-2015 certification and entrenchment of WHO Global benchmarking (ISO 9004) across all the Airports, Seaports, and land borders, “she said.

The NAFDAC boss added that she has also gone further to ensure that the Clean Report of Inspection and Analysis (CRIA) scheme was strengthened for the purpose of establishing the quality and safety of regulated products before they are shipped from China and India to Nigeria.

by pension fund operators, and general compliance with the provisions of the Pension Reform Act 2014.

Explaining further, “We will continue to engage the honourable members and collaborate with them in the area of strict compliance with the Contributory Pension Scheme.”

The association, in the statement

further said its members value the House members and their contributions towards improving the welfare of the Nigerian workers who contribute to their Retirement Savings Account monthly, adding that the PFAs are fully committed to ensuring that these individuals receive inflation-adjusted returns during their retirement.

Africa.

“Lined up to do justice to this thought provoking topic are the vice president, Association of Sustainability Professionals of Nigeria, (ASPN), Mrs. Ini Abimbola, manager director of TruCSR/founder SERAS Africa,

Mr. Ken Egbas, director, corporate affairs & sustainability development, Unilever Ghana & Nigeria, Mrs. Oluwasoromidayo George and regional executive head, marketing & corporate communication, Standard Bank Group, Mrs. Nkiru Olumide-Ojo.

PenOp Explains Meeting with Lawmakers Ebere Nwoji The Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria (PenOp) has explained reasons for recent invitation of some Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) by the House Committee on Pensions.

It said the essence of the meeting was for a routine interaction session

with the lawmakers.

Recent reports by some media had said the committee set up by the House of Representatives on pensions had invited some PFAs for the purpose of investigating unwholesome practices in the sector.

But explained: “We wish to state that the report is misleading as it failed

to convey the meeting’s true essence, which was for a routine interaction session with members in furtherance of their oversight functions.”

According to PenOp, the lawmakers invited some PFAs for an interactive meeting to discuss the non-remittance of pensions by employers, the delay or non-payment of pension entitlements

Firm to Organise Industry Summit Organisers of The Industry Evening Summit, a platform to discuss the marketing communications industry in Nigeria, have concluded plan to host the second edition of the event.

The event, which is scheduled to hold in Lagos on April 2, 2021, has

as its theme: “Addressing the Balance Question in the Management of Corporate Social Investment Portfolio During Crisis.”

To present paper on the theme is the managing director of Frutta Juice & Service Limited, Dr. Onyekachi

Onubogu.

According to a statement, Onubogu is an accomplished Senior Business Leader/ Executive Board Member with over 20 year track record of commercial and marketing success in multi-national companies across

25

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͳ˜ 2021

BUSINESSWORLD

PERSPECTIVE

Dangote Group’s Petroleum Industry Bill Proposal Fidelis Ejokparoghene

T

he news of last weekend’s presentation to the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on the Petroleum Industry Bill, (PIB) by the Dangote Group, whose members visited the company, sent shock waves to the marrows of the Nigerian oil sector.

In the presentation, the Dangote Group had made a demand that oil import licence be given to only companies with active refinery licences. Chief Strategy Officer of the Group, Aliyu Suleiman, was quoted to have highlighted several recommendations by the company to the committee, among which was this ground-shaking demand.

“Nigeria is exceptional in being a major oil producer with near zero capacity. Though the Dangote Refinery will help address this, there could be periods when petroleum products may need to be imported, such as when the refinery is undergoing turnaround maintenance or if demand grows to exceed capacity.

To support this, licence to import any product shortfalls should be assigned only to companies with active refining licences. Import volume to be allocated between participants based on their respective production in the preceding quarter. Such import will be done under the DSDP scheme,” Suleiman said.

The Dangote Group has had an octopodal hold on the Nigerian entrepreneurial and indeed, business sector. From sugar, cement, food items production and to its recent foray into oil production, the Group controls the major artery of entrepreneurship and business as a whole in Nigeria.

With this as background, it would be senseless to ignore whatever contributions the Group makes to the theoretical underpinning of any venture in Nigeria. Added to this is the group’s hold on the governmental class and its ability to blithely swing issues to its sides.

Today, Dangote’s in-road into the oil sector, with its Dangote refinery, is a phenomenal project that the Nigerian government and the people look forward to with baited breath.

A 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) integrated refinery and petrochemical project, it is currently under construction at its location in the Lekki Free Zone near Lagos.

By projection, the refinery, upon completion, is primed to be Africa’s biggest oil refinery and indeed, the biggest single-train facility in the world. Its initial completion schedule was 2020, until time put spanners in its works and projected completion time currently indecipherable. There is yet to be an official communication of reasons behind the inability to meet this scheduled date and communication of the sure date that the project would begin to refine petroleum products.

The oil refinery, brainchild of the famous richest man in Africa, Aliko Dangote, is an estimated investment that is worth $12bn and a projected jobs generation of 9,500 direct and 25,000 indirect employments. Part of the oil productions that the Dangote Refinery will bring to table is the production of a variety of light and medium grades of crude. This will subsequently lead to the production of Euro-V quality clean fuels which also included gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and polypropylene.

In the roulette of epileptic fuel supply, the considered inappropriate importation of fuel products shipped abroad as crude, the Dan-

gote Oil Refinery offers a binge of excitements to the Nigerian government and Nigerians in general. Upon completion, it was primed to hold the hope of rescuing Nigeria from the travails of refining petroleum products abroad and shipping same back to the country.

The Nigerian government had looked forward too, to the completion of the Dangote Oil Refinery as a way of ending this roulette of importation of petroleum products and shoring up its foreign exchange earnings. In December 2019, after a four-hour tour of the refinery, the CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, said that the federal government would soon start sourcing foreign exchange (forex) from the Dangote Group, after the completion of its refinery, petrochemicals and fertilizer projects are completed. He undertook the tour in company of the President/CE of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote; Deputy Governor of the CBN, Aishah Ahmad; Group Managing Director, Dangote Industries Limited, Mr. Olakunle Alake; Group Executive Director of Dangote Industries, Mr. Devakumar Edwin; and the Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank, Mr. Segun Agbaje.

In the euphoria of its huge financial leap expectations to Nigeria from the oil refinery business, the project was given very generous concessions by government, one of which is waivers and free access to foreign exchange from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Though this concession agreement violates the free enterprise rule of the Free Trade Zone policy of the Lekki Free Trade Zone where the Dangote Refinery is expected to operate, government and the FTZ looked the other way.

The strict rule that was manifestly pursued in respect of all ventures operating at the zone is that, every enterprise therein must raise forex by itself and such forex was free from excise duties, as well as nil restriction to the repatriation of the investor’s money if and when the investor deems it necessary.

Literally, by getting waivers from the CBN, Dangote Refinery violated this major FTZ operational code but the Group enjoyed this exceptional treatment from the Nigerian

government due to expectations from its completion of the refinery.

A few months ago, indications emerged from the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) that the Dangote Group might have made an application to the DPR to begin retail trading of petroleum products. In the oil and gas sector, retail trade involves the marketing and distribution and sale of petroleum products purchased wholesale or directly from retail outlets. If this application was granted, the Dangote Group would then have a dual involvement in this sector, or abandon one for the other as the two are not mutually inclusive.

Industry watchers had looked at this sudden veer into petroleum products trade as a huge digression from the known and advertised plan of the Dangote Group which is currently involved with the construction of a petroleum products refinery at the Lekki Free Trade Zone. There were strong indications that the Dangote Group’s veer into marketing and distribution of petroleum products might generally affect the local market and cannibalise it. Why oil products trading should be an agenda on the Dangote Group’s limitless entrepreneurial cravings baffled. If approved by the DPR, this aboutturn by the Dangote Group could totally redraw the map of Nigeria’s petroleum products, foil expectations of the people and government and bring the country back to status quo ante.

This latest demand by the Dangote Group from the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) beggars explanation. By this demand to have oil import licences given to only companies with active refinery licences, Dangote is seeking to consolidate on its advantageous position in the Nigerian business environment. Having secured huge concessionary from the federal government to build a refinery, the Dangote Group again seeks the bid of same government to monopolise the importation of fuel into the country. If this is granted, there would be a cloning of the same business model that has set the Dangote

Cement in a rat race squabble with other producers in the cement sector.

Recall that only recently, BUA Group, a key player in the cement, through its founder, Abdul Samad Rabiu, had been involved in a spat with the private sector-led CACOVID for the purchase of one million AstraZeneca doses of COVID-19 vaccines for Nigeria via the AFREXIM bank for which it paid at the agreed rate of US$3.45 per dose totalling US$3,450,000,000.00 which translating to N1.311billion. However, CACOVID’s clarifications, BUA believed the uproar was due to petty politics, which watchers translated to fallout of the cement industry war.

With its backward integration policy application to the downstream petroleum sector, watchers of the industry wonder what then happened to Nigerian investors who have voted billions of naira into the same venture which the Dangote Group wants devoted to itself alone?

With a refinery construction project in process, why does the Group need to again dominate the importation of fuel business?

This is because, its alibi of a periodic Turn Around Maintenance (TAM) of the refinery as reason why it should also superintend over fuel importation lacks cohesion and logic.

This is because, TAM is a periodic process and when that happens, modular refineries in Nigeria could fill the gap to cushion the effects of the fuel supply disruption that may be trigger by the TAM. Monopoly and Dangote Group, it will appear, are Siamese, with all its indications of anti-trust and done in conjunction with successive Nigerian governments when, in fact, it should compete with others. In specific terms, the submission of the Dangote Group on the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on the Petroleum Industry Bill, if incorporated into the PIB that is eventually passed, may not ensure equity and level playing field in the oil and gas industry.

-Ejokparoghene, is a petroleum industry analyst, writes from Abuja

NALDA Derives Organic Fertilizer from Rabbits to Boost Farm Yields James Emejo in Abuja The Executive Secretary/and Chief Executive, National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), Paul Ikonne, has disclosed that about 25, 000 litters of urine had been harvested from over 5000 rabbits adding that it will be deployed as organic fertilizer farms.

He also said from a pilot initiative in four states including Imo, Abia, Oyo and Cross River, over 1.36 million rabbits are expected to be reproduced from the 17, 000 rabbits earlier shared to farmers.

Ikonne added that following the

visible successes so far recorded, the programme will now be extended to five another states.

Speaking in Owerri, Imo State, during the unveiling of Rabbit Waste Organic Fertilizer, harvested from rabbits in four pilot states in the country, the NALDA boss said also said 2.14 million liters of urine is expected to be harvested within the year.

According to him, the rabbit rearing programme was kicked off about three months ago after President Muhammadu Buhari flagged off the National Young Farmers Scheme (NYFS) in November last year.

He said the organic fertilizer is expected to boost farm produce of young farmers under the scheme at zero cost.

He said: “All the NALDA farmers who do submit their urine to various collection centers are been paid to courage them on the business viability of rabbit farm business- rabbit urine as organic fertilizer.”

He said in its efforts to engage more youths in the agricultural value chain, the federal government had launched the rabbit farming adding that the rabbits were subsequently distributed to those who indicated interest in the project to among other things harvest

urine from these animals which had been found to be a rich source of organic fertilizer to rice and maize farming.

Ikonne described agro-business as a lucrative venture that requires patience noting that the organic fertilizer would be distributed to farmers alongside spraying machines to increase their yield.

He said: “It on this backdrop, that the programme will be extended to other states and also increase the number of participants in the existing states.”

He said rabbit farming could generate at least N100,000 monthly for those who venture into the trade

adding that it could enhance the diversification agenda of the present administration and provide sustainable means of livelihood for the teeming youth population.

However, the Imo State Coordinator, NALDA, Mr. Amanze Ofor, said about 180 youths are currently participating in the programme within the state adding that the beneficiaries got paid immediately they turn in urine harvested from the rabbits.

The beneficiaries, who were glad that they were able to earn their first income through the initiative, however, lamented the challenges in accessing food and drugs for the rabbits.

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IMAGES

T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ Ͳ˜ ͰͮͰͯ

Photo Editor ÌÓÙÎßØ ÔËÖË Email ËÌÓÙÎßØ˛ËÔËÖË̶ÞÒÓÝÎËãÖÓàÏ˛ÍÙ×

L-R: Emir of Yashikira Alhaji Umaru Usman Sariki; Emir of Okuta Abubakar Idris; Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq; Oyo State Governor Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde; and Emir of Ilesha Baruba Prof. Halidu Abubakar; shortly after a joint security meeting between Kwara and Oyo State Governments held at Oyo State Government House, in Ibadan...recently

Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun (middle) flanked by the Chairman, Mikano International Limited, Mofid Karameh (left) and Managing Director of the company, Ibrahim Ibrahim during a courtesy visit and presentation of Security Patrol Van and face masks produced by Mikano International to the State Government at the Governor’s office on Tuesday.

L-R: Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Chairman, Ekiti State chapter of the Nigeria UnionTeachers (NUT), Comrade Oke Emmanuel; and NUT Secretary, Comrade Akin Adeojo; during a courtesy visit by the NUT new executives to the Governor in Ado-Ekiti.....recently

L-R; : Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, Mr Edet Akpan; Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu; Chairman, Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN), Dr. Olaoye Oyediran; Registrar, IPAN, Mr Aliyu Abdullahi Angara; and immediate past Chairman of IPAN, Dr Dahiru Adamu, during the visit of IPAN delegation to the Minister’s Office in Abuja on Tuesday

L-R; Chairman of the presidential Task force on Covid- 19, Boss Mustapha; Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire; Director Nigeria Medical Doctor and public health specialist, Dr. Faisal Shuaib; during the arrival of Covid- 19 Vaccine in Abuja... Yesterday photo KINGSLEY ADEBOYE

L-R: Chairman Sub-Committee on Evaluation and Due process, Inter-ministerial Committee on the Disposal of the Federal Government Forfeited Assets, Mr Emesue Godwin; Estate Valuer, Mr Oluwadere Bello; and Chairman of the Inter-ministerial Committee on the Disposal of the Federal Government Forfeited Assets, Mr Dayo Apata, during the opening of bid for procurement of Estate Surveyor and Valuers on the Forfeited Assets to the Federal Government, in Abuja on Tuesday

L-R, Chairman Senate Committee on Joint Committee on IINEC, Senator Kabiru Gaya; Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo Agege and President of the Senate, Senator Ahmed Lawan at a meeting of the joint Senate and House Committee on Independent National Electorral Commission (INEC) and Electoral matters on a presentation on the state of voter access to polling units in Nigeria held yesterday in Abuja j ulius atoi

THURSDAY MARCH 4, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 4, 2021

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

ÜÙßÚ ÏËÞßÜÏÝ ÎÓÞÙÜ˝ ÒÓÏ×ÏÖÓÏ äÏÙÌÓ ×ËÓÖ chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, Tel: 07010510430

A Global Campaign against Malaria Rebecca Ejifoma reports that ‘Draw The Line Against Malaria’ campaign, a new youth-focused creative campaign championed by a global coalition of change makers and culture influencers, inspires Africa’s youths to demand political action from their leaders to end malaria within a generation

The Muundo (behind) the first universal malaria language, comprising lines, symbols and patterns which represent an eye-catching visualisation of the actions needed to end malaria once and for all

A

new youth-focused creative campaign powered by African stars launched today to ‘draw the line (DTL) against malaria’, one of humanity’s oldest and deadliest diseases.

Global Coalition of Change Makers Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, the campaign is championed by a global coalition of change makers and culture influencers inspiring Africa’s youths to demand political action from their leaders to end malaria within a generation.

Popular faces featured on the campaign include Dr. Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Nigerian actress and philanthropist; Laolu Sebanjo, Nigerian-British artist; Osas Ighodaro, Nigerian-American actress/producer and Meji Alabi, critically acclaimed filmmaker and music director. Other stars in the line-up are Saray Khumalo, South African explorer and Eliud Kipchoge, Kenyan athlete and Olympic Gold-medalist.

Art Visualisation Combining an interactive digital platform with a powerful campaign film, young people across the continent are charged to visit www.zeromalaria.org and add a personal line of Muundo art to a growing piece of crowdsourced artwork which represents a visual call to action to world leaders.

The artwork will be shared at the Kigali Summit on Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases, being held on the eve of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Rwanda on June 24.

The summit is a milestone moment in the malaria fight and enabler of game changing

political decisions including delivering the commitment to halve malaria across the Commonwealth by 2023.

Global artist from Nigeria and Art Director for the Draw The Line Against Malaria campaign, Laolu Senbanjo, is the creator of Muundo, the first universal malaria language, comprising lines, symbols and patterns which represent an eye-catching visualization of the actions needed to end malaria once and for all.

Malaria Cases in Nigeria Recording over 60 million cases in 2019 and 95,000 deaths, Nigeria is the country with the highest number of malaria cases and deaths in the world. The DTL campaign launches at a critical time, with setbacks to malaria progress suffered amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and the country set to unveil the new National malaria elimination strategy which will run from 2021-2025.

Dr Abdourahmane Diallo, CEO of RBM Partnership to End Malaria, addresses the renewed urgency in the fight against malaria said, “Long-time investments in the malaria fight continue to pay dividends and are pulling double duty during the pandemic.

By strengthening our health care systems, we can better respond to both new and existing health threats. Today, we must all draw the line against malaria and recommit to achieving zero malaria in Africa and around the world.”

Draw the Line Campaign The Draw The Line Against Malaria campaign, which supports the growing Zero Malaria Starts with Me movement, reflects the human story of malaria and the devastating impact it has on education, employment, health, and prospects of Africa’s growing young population.

Speaking on the creative concept, Meji Alabi said, “It’s refreshing to talk about the world’s oldest disease in a new way and to focus on young people while showcasing the infectious energy, talent and inspiration coming out of Africa right now. From art, to music, culture, and fashion – the influence and creativity is palpable.”

At a time when young people are facing unprecedented challenges from COVID-19, malaria steals time, work, salaries, education, and futures. Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde captures the severity of the situation, noting “I have known this disease my whole life.

This campaign is a moment for us to unite in determination and action, it’s time to take our futures back”.

The ‘Draw The Line’ campaign is fronted by a coalition of global partners including the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), the African Union (AU), The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Impact Santé Afrique, Dentsu International, Malaria No More UK, RBM Partnership to End Malaria and Speak Up Africa.

In the run up to the Kigali Summit on Malaria and NTDs Summit, the ‘Draw The Line’ campaign will roll out youth-centric initiatives of cultural resonance, sounding a rallying cry for them to step up action in the fight against malaria and join the confluence of voices reclaiming their futures “till we see and celebrate a day when malaria is no more.”

Siya Kolisi, Captain of the Springboks, South Africa’s World Cup winning rugby team, said: “Every child, every young person deserves the chance to step into their potential.

This is a world changing campaign and we have the opportunity to protect the futures of millions of children across Africa. My message to young people is to get excited and to get involved because this is one

disease we can end within a generation.

Together we stand and say: Malaria: We’re too strong for you.”

Dr. Omotola J Ekeinde, Nigerian actress and philanthropist, further noted that: “It would be incredible if we could end malaria in Africa, I have known this disease my whole life. It breaks my heart that Nigeria is so affected with over 250 lives lost here every single day. This campaign is a moment for us to unite in determination and action, it’s time to take our futures back.”

Sherrie Silver, award-winning Rwandan British choreographer, said: “I lost my nineyear-old cousin to malaria and at that moment my life changed. Ending malaria became a personal mission for me. It is not acceptable that in this day and age malaria remains a huge killer of children. I’m proud to be a part of this campaign which is building up to a critical leadership moment in June when my home country Rwanda will host a Global Summit on Malaria and NTDs at the time of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.”

Meji Alabi, Nigerian film director, said: “This campaign is a beautiful opportunity to change the narrative and to show off the infectious energy, talent and inspiration coming out of Africa right now. From art, to music, culture, and fashion – the influence and creativity is palpable. It’s refreshing to talk about the world’s oldest disease in a new way and to focus on young people because our actions today will help transform their futures. Being Nigerian myself I’ve lost a lot of loved ones to malaria and it is time for this to change.”

Osas Ighodaro, Nigerian American actress said: “This is a cause very close to my heart.

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T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 4, 2021

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COVER

FERTILITY

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

A GLOBAL CAMPAIGN AGAINST MALARIA My sister was expecting her baby in 2006 and she caught malaria and was not able to overcome it…it was a devastating time.

Right now, 1 in 3 pregnant women suffer from malaria in sub-Saharan Africa – this is a human problem because malaria can be beaten if we unite together. This campaign is a moment for change and I fully believe in my heart, we will see and celebrate the day when malaria is no more.”

Saray Khumalo, South African explorer, noted: “Ending malaria will change the course of humanity for good, forever. I grew up living with malaria in DRC and Zambia, so I know how devastating this disease is.

Malaria is a human problem that is entirely preventable so we can all be involved helping to solve it. South Africa is a great example of a country where malaria elimination is within our grasp.”

Unifying Global Platforms In 2018 the world came together to demand urgent action against malaria. Zero Malaria Starts with Me was launched by African Union leaders and in communities and countries across Africa, and 53 Heads of Government came together to commit to halve malaria in the Commonwealth by 2023.

The movement has generated community Zero Malaria champions supporting national End Malaria Funds to drive private sector investment. Others have established parliamentary groups to advocate for greater action and resources to fight malaria.

The next few years are critical to reach out 2030 targets. In 2021 we will inspire a new generation to join the Zero Malaria Starts With Me movement with the fresh new Draw the Line Against Malaria campaign, creating a unifying, ground-breaking and inspiring global platform which will capture youth and public imagination, and rally communities and leaders. The campaign aims to generate mass awareness and high visibility for the Zero Malaria Starts with Me movement across malaria-affected countries and beyond.

On the 22 February Viacom CBS Networks Africa announced that it was joining forces with the ZMSWM movement and supporting the Draw The Line Against Malaria campaign.

Campaign Partners The Global partners include the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), the African Union (AU), The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Impact Santé Afrique, dentsu International, Malaria No More UK, RBM Partnership to End Malaria and Speak Up Africa On the other hand, the supporting partners include Goodbye Malaria, Rentokil Initial, Restless Development. Results, Sanofi, Target Malaria, and ViacomCBS Networks Africa while they broadcast partner is DStv and the Creative & Brand Strategy is dentsu International.

The main campaign film was shot by Black Dog (part of Ridley Scott Creative Group), JM Films, DentsuACHTUNG!, Láolú NYC, Daniel Obasi, Ugo Mozie, Wave, Trim Editing, TSE, Big Buoy while they behind the scenes film was shot by Fiksa, Dafe Oboro, Mark Pengelly, Nicole Eveleigh. The digital was handled by Isobar, Firstborn, Facebook while media was by Carat, iProspect. The film music “Muanapoto” was performed by Tshegue and written and composed by Faty Sy Savanet and Nicolas Dacunha-Castelle at 2017 Dakou Studios under exclusive license to EOS Records © EOS Publishing & Dakou Studios - 2017 Courtesy of Ekler’o’shock and Dakou Studios.

2021 – A Key Year for Malaria Two decades of partnership and global commitment have led to transformative progress against malaria preventing 1.5 billion cases, cutting deaths by more than 60 per cent and saving more than 7.6 million lives since 2000 – this represents millions of children who have grown up to lead happy and productive lives.

At the beginning of 2020 mortality rates were at the lowest point ever, but the world has changed since then. A remarkable collective effort across Africa has enabled countries to fight back, with more than 90 per cent of malaria prevention campaigns moving forward in 2020 without major delay, but

the rapid spread of COVID-19 this year has further threatened to disrupt malaria progress.

The World Health Organisation is warning that disruption to malaria diagnosis and treatment caused by COVID-19 could lead to thousands of additional deaths.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: PCOS (Part 1)

Looking Towards a Malaria-Free Future Experts convened by the World Health Organisation (WHO) agree that malaria eradication is likely to save millions of lives and billions of dollars.

In 2019, The Lancet Commission on malaria eradication – made up of leading scientists from around the world – found that if we focus efforts on strengthening leadership, increasing investment, prioritising research and innovation, including the development of new tools, and implementing smart, data driven programmes, ending malaria is possible within a generation.

Decisions made now by global political leaders – backed by strong public support - will determine this trajectory. Already, more countries than ever are within reach of elimination, with Algeria and Argentina both certified malaria-free in 2019, but every country should be able to reap the benefits of zero malaria. We must act now to create a fairer future that leaves no one behind.

About Global Action to Eliminate Malaria In 2018, global investment and action saved almost 600,000 lives and prevented almost 100 million malaria cases compared to 2000. Despite these gains, malaria cases and deaths remain unacceptably high and concentrated in 19 countries.

In the last two years leaders across the world renewed their commitment and united to fight against malaria: In April 2018 53 Heads of Government committed to halve malaria in the Commonwealth by 2023; Governments, science, and the private sector added their support pledging $4.1 billion to accelerate research and development of new tools for the malaria fight and expand access to life-saving tools; In July 2018, 55 leaders of the African Union launched the pan-African Zero Malaria Starts with Me movement, co-led by the RBM Partnership to End Malaria and the African Union Commission empowering communities to take greater action to accelerate malaria elimination across Africa.

In just over a year, 10 countries have unveiled campaigns and more than 20 countries – including malaria-affected countries beyond Africa such as India – are getting ready to step up the fight; and in October 2019, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, the leading source of malaria funding globally, was successfully replenished with $14bn.

Key Statistics Despite enormous progress, nearly half the world is still at risk from malaria, which killed 409,000 people in 2020 —almost two thirds are children under five. Africa carries the greatest malaria burden in the world, with 94 per cent of all cases and deaths.

A child dies from malaria every two minutes – 700 children a day; and six countries account for over 50 per cent of malaria deaths. Nigeria (23 per cent), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (11 per cent), United Republic of Tanzania (five per cent), Burkina Faso (four per cent) Mozambique (four per cent) and Niger (four per cent).

Also, women and children are disproportionately affected by malaria: 2/3 of all malaria deaths are children under five, and 1 in 3 pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa suffers from malaria; Africa has the fastest growing youth population in the world – at a time when young people are facing unpreceded challenges from COVID-19, malaria steals time, work, salaries, education, and futures.

We know ending malaria is possible.

Sustained global efforts over the last two decades have saved over seven million lives and prevented more than 1.5 billion cases. Half the world is malaria-free and at the start of 2020, pre COVID-19 malaria deaths were at the lowest point ever. Since 2000, 21 countries reported zero indigenous malaria cases for three consecutive years.

In Africa this includes Morocco (2010) and Algeria (2019).

I

nfertility is a major challenge affecting families across the globe, some of the causes are however treatable if only enough information about the challenges is addressed by specialists.

There is the need for increased public education, awareness and advice on these issues. Today, we shall discuss one of them, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome; PCOS. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects 5-10% reproductive age women and therefore it is a common endocrine disorder.

A previous report from different countries shows the diversity in the incidence of PCOS with great concern which may make PCOS epidemic, however the statistics for PCOS in Nigeria is still scanty. Therefore it is important to evaluate current PCOS status in the country and understand PCOS-related risk in other to effectively prevent and treat women especially teenagers. It is worthy of note that despite the high incidence of PCOS, most Nigeria women especially teenagers do not know much about it.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects a woman’s hormone levels. It is a hormonal imbalance which affects women during their childbearing years (ages 15 to 45). PCOS is common, affecting as many as 1 in 15 women. Often, the symptoms begin in the teen years.

Treatment can help control the symptoms and prevent long-term complications such as infertility, heart diseases and diabetes.

Most women with PCOS grow many small cysts on their ovaries which are the reproductive organs that produce estrogen and progesterone hormones which regulates the menstrual cycle.

That is why it is called polycystic ovary syndrome. The cysts are not harmful but lead to hormone imbalances. This hormone imbalance causes them to skip menstrual periods and makes it harder for them to get pregnant. The ovaries are small, oval-shaped organs located in the pelvis. Their main job is to help women to get pregnant. They produce an egg each month. When the egg is mature, it is released from the ovary (ovulation) and pushed down the fallopian tube so it can be fertilized.

In women with PCOS, the eggs do not develop fully. This is the main cause of difficulties with getting pregnant. In some women diagnosed with PCOS, an ultrasound image of their ovaries will show multiple follicles in the ovaries: these are not actually

cysts, but partially formed eggs within the ovaries that haven’t developed properly.

The ovaries also produce a small amount of male hormones called androgens. The sex hormones may get out of balance. Normally, the ovaries make a tiny amount of male sex hormones (androgens) but in PCOS, they start making slightly more androgens. This may cause the body to stop ovulating, get acne, and grow extra facial or body hair and in some cases baldness in women. The body may also have a problem using insulin and this causes the blood sugar to rise. This condition is known as insulin resistance. Over time, this increases the chance of getting diabetes and heart disease.

What are the causes of PCOS? The exact cause of PCOS is unknown.

It is believed that high levels of male hormones (androgens) prevent the ovaries from producing hormones and making eggs normally. Genetic factors, insulin resistance, and inflammation have all been linked to excess androgen production Genes: It is likely that many genes not just one contribute to the condition. So far, no single gene has been found to cause PCOS, so the link is likely to be complex and involve multiple genes. Women with PCOS are 50% more likely to have an immediate female relative like mother, aunt, sister or daughter with PCOS. Insulin resistance: Up to 70 percent of women with PCOS have insulin resistance, meaning that their cells cannot use insulin (the hormone the pancreas produces to help the body use sugar from foods for energy), properly. The body’s cells stop responding normally to insulin, and instead block the entry of glucose into the cells. This means your body does not use the available insulin effectively to help keep your glucose levels stable and because the insulin is not working effectively, the body reacts by producing more insulin. An increased level of insulin increases the production of androgens, such as testosterone, in the ovaries. Insulin resistance is caused in part by lifestyle factors including being overweight, because of diet or physical inactivity but insulin resistance can also be caused by genetic factors and can occur in women of all weight ranges.

Obesity: This is a major cause of insulin resistance. Both obesity and insulin resistance can increase your risk for type 2 diabetes.

PCOS can occur in both slender and overweight women. However, women with PCOS are at greater risk of being overweight or obese TO BE CONTINUED

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T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 4, 2021

NEWS

WCWDT 4: MTN Foundation Hands over Medical Equipment to Primary Health Centres MTN Foundation, the social investment vehicle of MTN Nigeria, has donated medical equipment to 12 primary health centres across Nigeria in the fourth phase of its What Can We Do Together (WCWDT) campaign. The initiative allows Nigerians to nominate selected projects they consider of utmost need to their communities. The nomination of primary health centres in the fourth phase is in collaboration with the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC).

Speaking on the donation, Nonny Ugboma, Executive Secretary MTN Foundation said, “What Can We Do Together is in line with our social investment mandates to ensure that Nigerians have

better expectations of medical facilities that work. “ Since 2015, we have executed projects in partnership with nominated communities across Nigeria.

We partner with the people to make their lives brighter.”

Items donated include delivery beds, adult weight and height scales, screens, foetal dopplers, baby weight scales, mattresses and pillows, manual succession machines, extractors, disinfectants, footwears, infrared thermometers, disposable gowns, aprons, gloves, hand sanitizers, megaphones, stretchers, eye charts, Samsung tabs, disposable nose masks, among others.

Recipients also expressed gratitude to MTN on behalf of their communities. Doctor-in-Charge, General Hospital, Apata, Oyo

State, Dr. Tijani Adejare, said, “The medical equipment donated are of great quality. With this donation, we can save more lives and give better services to our patients.

“We are glad that MTN took

interest in the welfare of the people and selected our health centre for this gesture.’’

In the same vein, the Officerin-charge, Oko Erin Basic Health Centre, Ilorin, Kwara State, Mrs. Ahmed Sekinat Iyabo, said “Prior

to MTN’s donation, we have never had a foetal doppler. The weight scale, foetal doppler, hand sanitizers, face masks, and other items will be useful to the clinic and to the community. We are very grateful. The equipment

will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our work.”

The MTN Foundation has donated medical equipment to 132 Primary Health Centres across the country in previous phases of WCWDT.

Evercare Begins Operations of its State-ofthe-Art Hospital in Lagos Rebecca Ejifoma To provide quality and specialist health services to all, Evercare Hospital Lekki, a private multispecialty tertiary care facility, has begun operations in Lagos State.

The 165-bed hospital is part of the Evercare Group, a leading impact driven healthcare group in emerging markets operating hospitals, clinics and diagnostic facilities across Africa and South Asia.

According to the management, the need for good health in Nigeria birthed this state-of-theart hospital. Thus, this brings Evercare Group’s significant expertise in operating and developing quality healthcare facilities to West Africa.

During a media tour of its facility at the weekend, the CEO Evercare Hospital Lekki, Rajeev Bhandari, said, “Quality is at the core of Evercare Hospital Lekki’s healthcare mission. We will constantly innovate to ensure delivery of best standards of patient safety, clinical excellence, and outstanding clinical outcomes.”

He assured the public that their passionate team of caregivers are in place to ensure an unparalleled patient experience, while emphasising their concerns for prevention more than treatment.

Bhandari outlined, “We have a philosophy of ‘patient first’ and are always available to cater to healthcare needs. We look forward to embarking on our journey to transforming healthcare.”

The five-storey building facility is equipped with modern infrastructure and diagnostic services; 50 critical care units; core focus specialties including Mother and Child Services, Cardiac Sciences, Neurosciences, Orthopedics, Critical Care, and Emergency Medicine.

The team comprises a mix of highly skilled local and international full time and visiting consultants. “This will set a benchmark that will enhance the long-term sustainability of the country’s

healthcare ecosystem for both patients and practitioners,” the CEO added.

To make healthcare affordable and accessible to all, Ever care Lekki has partnered five HMOs in Nigeria: Axa Mansard, Avon, Oceanic Health, Leadway Health, and Bastion.

To add more local payors on a rolling basis, Evercare Hospital Lekki is also in the process of finalising agreements with leading international health insurance providers.

In his remark, CEO Evercare Group, Massimiliano Colella, told newsmen, “Our goal at the Evercare Group is to create a long-term blueprint for the healthcare sector and support the advancement of medical care across Nigeria.

“Evercare Hospital Lekki brings first-class healthcare services to the people of Nigeria and will reduce the need for Nigerians to travel overseas in search of quality medical care.”

He said their aim is to make specialty and sub-specialties available and will elevate the standards of service delivery.

“Our aim to build a sustainable future to provide world-class healthcare facilities in emerging markets and one of our key missions is to invest in local resources to help them expand their reach to help communities in need,” says Colella.

“It is an exciting time for us to work collectively to offer Nigerians superior healthcare options that meet local needs and build the country’s response in tackling diseases,” Jide Olanrewaju, Partner at TPG Growth, Africa mentioned.

While hinting that Evercare Hospital Lekki and its bestin-class facilities are a great example of how impact investment can address crucial funding needs in the march to bolster Nigeria’s medical ecosystem and its economy, commended the hard work in achieving the facility “We wish our colleagues continued success as we work together to improve healthcare in Nigeria,” he said.

MTN Foundation donating medical equipment to primary health centres

ECOWAS Receives €4m Worth COVID-19 Materials from EU, German Govt Kuni Tyessi in Abuja The German Government in collaboration with the European Union (EU) is supporting the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Region with over €4million worth of COVID-19 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) medical materials.

In a handover ceremony in Abuja, “Team Europe” as the collaboration is now called, delivered PPE including medical masks, sterile gloves, medical aprons, oxygen compressors and more to help ECOWAS

member states in the fight against COVID-19.

Speaking on behalf of the European Union, Head of Cooperation European Union (EU) Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mrs. Cécile TassinPelzer said, “as part of a rolling programme of procurements to support the on-going response to Covid-19 and strengthen the health systems in the region, the consignments handed over today contain critical personal protective equipment (PPE) consisting of aprons, gloves and boots, which will be used by the health care workers involved in response activities and patient

care.

“The second part of the delivery includes urgently needed ICU equipment, which will be needed for properly setting up ventilators for intensive care patients.”

According to the World health Organization (WHO) as of 01 March 2021, said there were more than 100 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 and over 2 million deaths worldwide.

In the ECOWAS region, more than 300,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and over 3,000 deaths have been recorded.

Appreciating the gesture

from the “Team Europe” collaboration, Director General of the West African Health Organization (WAHO) Professor Stanley Okolo, stated, “I wish to sincerely thank the German Government through the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) in collaboration with the European Union and the GIZ team for their partnership and commitment toward securing the much needed critical medical supplies.

“It is my hope that this will be a continuation of future collaborations between both institutions.”

Experts Urge Nigerians to Embrace Natural Medicine Rebecca Ejifoma Experts including the Rector, Redeemed College of Management and Technology, Dr Stella Mofunanya, has implored Nigerians to embrace natural medicine to solve the many health issues in the country.

She listed some natural foods like locust beans (iru); ewedu; white soup; ofe nsala with their spices; neem leaf (dongoyaro) for malaria, BP, diabetes; turmeric; nutmeg; Kanyan pepper; cloves; and ginger as medicinal.

She said this at the second induction ceremony of Complementary and Alternative Health Technicians, Therapists, and Technologists at LACOHET where experts like the Provost, Lagos State College of Health Technology, Yaba (LACOHET), Dr. Moyo Kasim reiterated her call.

In her address, Mofunanya enjoined Nigerians, “Let your food be your medicine; natural medicine we all grew up with in our homes. When you look at what your grandparents were

eating it is all about natural medicine.

“If you are in Yoruba land especially those of us in Lagos, your ewedu, bitter leaf, our locust beans, and our cayenne pepper have been capsulated.”

Mofunanya, however, decried “they have been able to brainwash us that until we buy the orthodox drugs we will not be fine.

“Until we start eating it well in Nigeria, letting our food be our medicine and not running to western food, we will not stop having problems,” she cautioned.

The rector highlighted that in Nigeria when people hear of natural medicine they think of rituals. “It is not. Our grandparents washed their yam with the skin and they looked fine. Most of them lived till 120 years. Now we peel, and fry.”

She recommended: “From your home, like I said, let your food be your medicine. Let your kitchen be your pharmacy with those vegetables like turmeric and cloves.”

On the role of the govern-

ment, Mofunanya explained: “A bill has been passed now.

They all know; let’s go back to our roots. How come most of our grandparents did not die of diabetes, hypertension in their tender ages? So most of the governments are embracing it now.”

In her presentation, she said the wider flexibility of traditional medicine practice among the people of developing countries is apart from the affordability and accessibility due to their beliefs.

“If we must develop a good health care system then more attention has to be given to this former sector involved in the health care delivery at the grassroots,” she harped on.

For the provost Kasim, alternative medicine is “Our culture. Orthodox is not just in Nigeria or Africa but all over the world right from the inception of human existence”.

He continued that some of the most popular practices in the world including China, India and other countries have

both traditional and orthodox medicine side by side in any of the hospitals.

His words, “What the Lagos State government is trying to do today is to bring traditional medicine out into the open to make it more accessible to all the citizens in the country.”

He hinted on Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) , saying over 60 per cent of “our women give birth at the facilities of TBAs. It is the traditional medicine goal in partnership with the traditional health care board and the college to train our TBA for four to nine weeks. Then they transmit their TBA to CBA (Community Birth Attendant).”

According to Kasim, the function of Lagos state government is to bring out traditional medicine into the forefront so it can be accessible to all the citizens in the state He, however, encouraged Nigerians not to feel that traditional medicine is inferior.

“Let’s have a rethink; not everything Africa is bare or inferior. Continue to patronise our traditional medicine.”

31

T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 4, 2021

PERSPECTIVE

Cancer May Become Leading Cause of Death in Nigeria Without Early Detection

Amina Abubakar Bello Cancer is acknowledged as the second-leading cause of death worldwide. According to World Cancer Day research “70% of cancer deaths occur in low-to-middle income countries”. The Cancer Atlas report has identified cancer as “a major [global] public health and economic issue and the burden is set to spiral”. The report further highlights that globally, there were over 18 million cancer cases, 9.6 million cancer deaths and 43.8 million people prevalent to cancer in 2018. The global number of cases is expected to increase to 29 million by 2040. It is estimated that Sub-Saharan Africa had 752 000 new cancer cases and 506 000 cancer deaths in 2018.

Nigeria has one of the highest burdens of cancer cases in Africa. In 2020, an estimated 124,000 new cases of cancer were diagnosed while 78,0000 deaths from cancer were recorded (Globocan).

The most frequently diagnosed cancers in Nigeria were Breast, Prostate, Cervical and Colorectal.

Factors that contribute to the high death rates from cancer in Nigeria include: poor knowledge on cancer, late presentation to hospital, Inadequate diagnostic and treatment services and the huge financial burden of cancer treatment.

Cancer occurs when the processes that regulate the growth of cells in the body become disrupted leading to uncontrolled, abnormal growth in the cells. The factors that induce these changes are many and could be genetic, environmental, chemical and social. This causes a lump (which is called a tumour ) to occur within the affected tissues. Some tumors are confined to the tissue or organ they developed from and are called Benign Tumours.

These are treatable and, in some cases, harmless and may not require treatment at all. For cancer however, which is called a malignant tumour, it spreads to other organs - which is the main characteristic of cancer that makes it a difficult disease to treat and is the main cause of death.

Early detection is one of the best chances for survival from cancer. People diagnosed early with cancer are not only more likely to survive, but significantly experience better levels of care, lower treatment morbidity, and improved quality of life.

Additionally, a third of all cancers can be prevented from occurring by modifying lifestyle habits and environmental factors. It is therefore critical to understand and implement early detection and treatment of Cancer if we are to prevent and reduce cancer related deaths in Nigeria.

Breast and cervical cancers which are the most common cause of cancer-related deaths affecting women in Nigeria are both preventable and treatable through early diagnosis and screening.

Screening is the presumptive identification of an unrecognized disease in an apparently healthy person through test and examinations. In the case

of breast cancer, living a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and smoking cigarette, can prevent a third of breast cancer cases. Screening for early breast cancer cases by regular examination of the breast by a clinician in addition to an X-ray examination of the breast called a Mammogram, significantly increases the chances of diagnosing Breast cancer at early stages.

For cervical cancer, which is caused by a virus called Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), screening is done by tests that either identify the presence of HPV in the cervix or detects precancerous lesions within the cervix that can be treated completely.

There is a vaccine available that prevents infection from HPV which prevents cervical cancer from occurring completely.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in Nigeria. When diagnosed early, it increases the chances for cure and survival significantly. Screening for Prostate cancer is done by testing for the levels of a particular protein called Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) in the blood. Detecting high levels of PSA may be indicative of cancer and so having regular checks increase the chances of early detection.

The screening tools are available in Nigeria but unfortunately, access to these tools as well as other preventive measures for the majority of women and men in as Nigeria is lacking.

Additionally, and equally important is that many Nigerians lack basic knowledge about cancer. Many are unaware of what the risk factors for cancer are, the symptoms and signs and when to present themselves to the hospital for a checkup. In addition, misconceptions and misinformation about cancer, is a major reason why most cases of cancer in Nigeria present at the late stages when only palliative care can be offered.

The treatment for cancer is multidisciplinary involving different modalities which include Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation therapy and Immune therapy among others. Effective treatment for cancer requires a team that comprises specialists from all the different fields including counsellors and palliative care specialists. There are very few centres in Nigeria that can provide these services. More often, patients will visit an average of at least three facilities in different parts of the country to be able to access the different treatment modalities they require.

Research by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Nigeria’s health system capacity concluded that there are 8.6 mammographs, 0.5 external beam radiotherapy, 15.6 CT scanners, 5.0 MRI scanners and 0.0 CT scanners per 10 000 patients. For a country with 200 million citizens, that is concerning when compared with South Africa

which has a population of just over 58 million and has 27.1 mammographs, 9.0 external beam radiotherapy, 28.6 CT scanners, 14.3 MRI scanners and 1.3 CT scanners per 10 000 patients. The Nigerian health system is currently inadequately equipped to absorb increasing rates of new cancer patients in the long run.

Grassroots organizations are crucial to raising cancer awareness through advocacy to bring the necessary changes to cancer care in Nigeria. The First Ladies Against Cancer FLAC), a coalition of current and former Nigerian First Ladies, is one example of a coalition with an overarching goal to reduce cancer incidence and mortality and improve the quality of life of people living with cancer by increasing cancer awareness. Through strategic partnerships with key stakeholders such as government officials, religious leaders, community influencers and traditional leaders, organizations like FLAC can dispel the misconceptions about cancer. By addressing commonly held beliefs and providing correct information to communities; thereby giving people the freeway to make informed decisions and present themselves to the hospitals for early detection. t%S #FMMP JT UIF 'JSTU -BEZ PG /JHFS 4UBUF BOE $IBJSQFSTPO PG 'JSTU -BEJFT "HBJOTU $BODFS '-"$

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͳ˜ 2021

32

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

ECOWAS Bank Seals €40m Deal to Support SMEs Dike Onwuamaeze The ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) has signed a €40 million framework agreement with the ODDO BHF Aktiengesellschaft, a Franco-German financial services group with a longstanding track record and expertise in trade financing.

The fund would be used to strengthen the prospects for small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) and industries to enable them to contribute to the economic growth in the continent, generate employment by financing projects in areas such as renewable energy, agribusiness and pharmaceutical production.

The agreement was signed by

the President of the EBID, Dr. George Donkor and the Head of International and Corporate Banking at ODDO BHF, Mr. Florian Witt, for their respective institutions yesterday, via a video conference. Donkor said, “the credit facility illustrates the commitment of the two institutions to the region’s transformation agenda through sustainable support to the vital sector of agribusiness.”

In his comment, Witt said: “ODDO BHF AG, with its international banking division and its strong focus on Africa, has been supporting the West African region for many years and is very much looking forward to working with the EBID.” The framework agreement

consists of an uncommitted credit line of €40 million provided by the ODDO BHF AG to the EBID under which individual loan agreements could be concluded.

The credit line was designed for project-related transactions throughout the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) sub-region, which included supplies from Europe officially supported by export credit agencies (ECAs) like the Atradius of the Netherlands, the Bpifrance Assurance Export of France and the Euler Hermes of Germany. They described the cooperation between EBID and ODDO BHF AG as an important contribution to promoting the development of various industrial sectors in the ECOWAS region.

FG, NLNG Strengthen Collaboration on Gas Sector Peter Uzoho The federal government through the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited are collaborating to produce the blueprint for the actualisation of Nigeria’s industrialisation and transformation through the ‘Decade of Gas Initiative.’

On the back of that, the NLNG is sponsoring the 2021 Nigeria International Petroleum Summit’s (NIPS) pre-conference, holding in Abuja on March 29, where President Muhammadu Buhari will lead top oil and gas stakeholders in attendance to brainstorm and flag off the ‘Decade of Gas’ project.

The pre-NIPS conference, with the theme: “Towards a Gas-powered Economy by 2030,” is in furtherance of the federal government’s declaration

of January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2030 as ‘The Decade of Gas Development for Nigeria’.

NIPS 2021 has been scheduled to hold in Abuja between June 6 and 10.

A statement by the event organiser, Brevity Anderson, said Buhari would be the special guest of honour while confirmed keynote speakers include the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva; and the Secretary General of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Mr. Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo.

Others would be the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mallam Mele Kyari; and the Managing Director of NLNG, Mr. Tony Attah, among others.

Stressing the importance of the Decade of Gas Initiative, Sylva was quoted in the statement

as saying that “Nigeria should take the leading role in Africa as gas becomes the dominant fuel for generating power in the continent”.

He added that that was the reason the federal government, under the leadership of president Buhari, was implementing carefully conceived initiatives to foster productivity and attract investments in the gas value chain. Sylva further noted that collaboration was needed from all stakeholders to transform Nigeria into a gas-based industrialised nation.

According to him, Nigeria LNG Limited, being one of the foremost global LNG players and Nigeria’s best example of value creation and economic transformation through gas utilisation, was the partner of choice to power the ‘Decade of Gas’ agenda of the federal government.

FCMB Introduces Paperless, Cardless ATM, PoS, Branches’Transactions Customers of First City Monument Bank (FCMB) can now seamlessly carry out an array of transactions with just their fingerprints and Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs).

This followed the introduction of paperless transactions within the bank’s over 200 branches in Nigeria.

According to a statement, with the innovation, customers no longer require deposit slips, withdrawal booklets, or cheque books to carry out over-thecounter transactions.

In addition, it noted that FCMB customers now have the opportunity to enjoy cardless banking experience by just using their fingerprints to withdraw

and deposit cash at 575 select biometric Automated Teller Machine (ATM) points of the bank spread across the country and via biometric Point of Sales (PoS) terminals available within the bank’s branches.

Beyond this, the 575 biometric ATMs of FCMB can be used by customers for intra and interbank transfers as well as change of PIN and data update.

It further explained that the, “simple, convenient and secure cardless services are available for use when customers do not wish to go out with their debit cards or these are inaccessible due to loss or damage.”

Also, FCMB explained that to withdraw cash with fingerprint

via its biometric ATMs, customers are required to visit any of the 575 select ATMs, and initiate the cardless menu. “This is followed by selecting the fingerprint withdrawal option, then precisely indicating the 10-digit NUBAN account number.

“The customer should then place his or her right thumb on the fingerprint scanner for 7 seconds, press ‘proceed’, input the amount to withdraw then take the cash.

“With these innovations, FCMB has again taken a bold step towards driving value-added digital banking solutions in Nigeria that would significantly promote financial inclusion,” it added.

BetKing Celebrates Third Anniversary Sunday Ehigiator To mark its third anniversary, BetKing, a digital entertainment and sport business recently hosted its customers, partners and staff to a hangout.

The group entered the African market in 2018, and has grown to be a major player in the region.

As part of the anniversary celebration, the group ran series of exciting interactive activities and hosted the Royal Phoenix Virtual Hangout for its customers,

partners, and staff.

A statement explained: “Over the last three years, BetKing while working to grow its operations and impact, has built a culture of excellence, and focused on delivering a customer-centric approach across its retail and online channels. “BetKing continually works to identify and create products that provide customers with great sports entertainment experiences, thereby successfully building a brand portfolio that customers recognise and trust.

“The company currently employs more than 100 directly and creates over 50,000 jobs through its agent network, made of people coming from diverse backgrounds; are passionate, resilient, and committed to making BetKing, Africa’s most valued company.”

The Royal Phoenix Virtual Hangout was attended by the BetKing Ambassador, Austin Okocha, who expressed how glad he was to be part of the company.

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

JULY 2020 Money Supply (M3)

36,822,751.47

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

3,476,121.25

Money Supply (M2)

33,346,630.22

-- Quasi Money

120,764,479.02

-- Narrow Money (M1)

12,582,151.19

---- Currency Outside Banks

2,002,026.89

---- Demand Deposits

10,580,124.31

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

7,637,137.23

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

29,185,614.24

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

39,711,115.95

---- Credit to Government (Net)

19,521,851.08

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

0.00

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

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

-130,189,264.87

--Other Assets Net

3,472,017.70

Reserve Money (Base Money

13,421,827.07

--Currency in Circulation

2,395,917.03

--Banks Reserves --Special Intervention Reserves

11,025,910.04 317,234.17

˾ ÙßÜÍÏ ̋

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

March 2018

Inter-Bank Call Rate

15.16

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

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

˾ ÙØÏÞËÜã ÙÖÓÍã ËÞÏ ̋ ͯͱϱ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE ˜ Ͱ ͰͮͰͯ

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $61.97 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $64.24 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), Zafiro (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

33

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͳ˜ ͰͮͰͯ

Dangote Sugar Grows Profit by 33%, Recommends N1.50 Dividend Goddy Egene Despite the disruptions to the economy due to the coronavirus, Dangote Sugar Refinery (DSR) Plc recorded improved results in its 2020 financial year.

Details of the audited results ended December 31, 2020, showed that DSR posted a revenue of N214.297 billion, up by 33 per cent to N161 billion in 2019.

Production volume rose by

13.7 per cent to 743,858 tonnes in 2020, compared to 654,071 tonnes in 2019, while sales increased by 6.9 per cent from 684,487 tonnes to 731,701 tonnes. Profit after taxation for the year increased by 33.2 per cent to N26.70 billion as against N22.36 billion in 2019. The board of directors recommended a dividend of N1.50 per share, up from N1.10 paid the previous year.

Commenting, the performance, Group Managing Direc-

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

tor/Chief Executive Officer of DSR Plc, Mr. Ravindra Singhvi, said despite the socio-economic uncertainties occasioned by COVID-19 pandemic during the year under review, the sugar group continued on the growth path with commitments to improve on performance and generate value for all stakeholders.

According to him, 2020 was indeed very eventful for the company ranging from the weak

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

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

macroeconomic fundamentals caused by the underlying impact of COVID-19 pandemic which saw to the steady rise in foreign exchange (FX) rate, high inflation and the significant rise in its cost of production, to the worsening traffic gridlock on the Apapa Wharf road which led to delays and at times disruption of the distribution and deliveries to customers.”

Singhvi said the company activated its Business Continuity

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

Management System (BCMS) during the lock down periods due to the COVID pandemic and disruptions caused by #EndSARS protests, which helped to minimize the adverse impact the situation had on businesses in the country.

He noted that one of the key highlights of during the year was the successful completion of the Scheme of Arrangement – merger of DSR Plc and Savannah Sugar Company Limited (SSCL)

O F

with effect from September 1, 2020 to operate under one unified entity.

He said: “We are confident the merger will enable us to achieve operational, administrative and governance efficiencies resulting in increased shareholder value.

We will continue to pursue our Backward Integration Projects, and other key initiatives to grow our sales volumes, market share, optimise cost and operational efficiencies.”

0 3 / 0 3 / 2 0 2 1 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

34

˾ THURSDAY, MARCH 4, 2021

Thursday, March 4, 2021 Thisday Afrinvest 40 Index Declines 0.3% dŚĞ dŚŝƐĚĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ /ŶĚĞdž ĨĞůů ϮϵďƉƐ ƚŽ ƐĞƩůĞ Ăƚ

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

1,774.25 points. This was on the back of sustained sellŽīƐ ŝŶ ZENITH (-0.4%), MTNN (-2.3%) and WAPCO (-

Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index

ϳ͘ϭйͿ͘ dŚĞƐĞ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĐƵŵƵůĂƟǀĞůLJ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ĨŽƌ ϭϰ͘ϴй ŽĨ the index.

Price Change Index to Date

Ticker

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40

1,774.25

-0.29%

20.9%

77.4%

17.4%

3.7%

930.00

0.0%

34.0%

9.2%

9.2%

7.9%

2.8%

74.75

0.0%

10.8%

-3.4%

-3.4%

19.1%

11.2%

35.9x

6.8x

2.5%

2.8%

31.70

0.6%

9.1%

-2.0%

-2.0%

27.9%

4.7%

4.6x

1.3x

8.8%

21.7% 28.7%

Sustained Sell-KīƐ͘​͘​͘ ^/ ĚŽǁŶ ϰϰďƉƐ

1 Airtel Africa PLC 2 BUA Cement Plc

The sell-ŽīƐ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĚŽŵĞƐƟĐ ďŽƵƌƐĞ ĐŽŶƟŶƵĞĚ LJĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ

3 Guaranty Trust Bank PLC 4 Zenith Bank PLC

as the benchmark index fell 44bps to 39,522.06 points

Price Previous Current Change Price YTD Weighting Change

Current Price

5 Dangote Cement PLC 6 MTN Nigeria Communications PLC 7 Nestle Nigeria PLC

ROE

ROA

P/E

5.1x

P/BV

Divindend Earnings Yield Yield

0.5x

5.7%

7.6%

1.3%

25.55

-0.4%

6.9%

3.0%

3.0%

22.4%

3.1%

3.5x

0.7x

11.7%

220.00

0.0%

5.4%

-10.2%

-10.2%

30.8%

14.6%

14.7x

4.6x

7.9%

6.8%

170.00

-2.3%

4.8%

0.1%

0.1%

189.4%

11.9%

16.9x

29.5x

5.6%

5.9% 3.7%

1,350.00

0.0%

3.5%

-10.3%

-10.3%

83.0%

20.5%

27.3x

25.6x

5.2%

19.50

-7.1%

3.1%

-7.4%

-7.4%

6.5%

4.6%

13.6x

0.9x

5.0%

7.4%

8.05

-0.6%

2.7%

-4.7%

-4.7%

16.8%

1.5%

2.6x

0.4x

8.1%

38.3%

10 United Bank for Africa PLC 11 FBN Holdings Plc

8.25

0.6%

2.6%

-4.6%

-4.6%

13.9%

1.3%

3.5x

0.5x

11.8%

28.5%

7.10

0.0%

2.4%

-0.7%

-0.7%

11.2%

1.1%

4.0x

0.3x

5.4%

25.3%

േ91.9bn to േϮϬ͘ϳƚŶ͘ dƌĂĚŝŶŐ ĂĐƟǀŝƚLJ ǀĂƌŝĞĚ ĂƐ ǀŽůƵŵĞ

12 Nigerian Brew eries PLC 13 Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC

52.00

0.0%

1.9%

-7.1%

-7.1%

4.5%

1.8%

56.3x

2.6x

1.8%

1.8%

40.00

0.0%

1.8%

-9.2%

-9.2%

24.3%

3.7%

5.3x

1.2x

6.0%

18.8%

ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ďLJ ϵ͘ϴй ƚŽ Ϯϰϰ͘ϯŵ units and value fell 23.4% to

14 International Brew eries PLC 15 Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC

-26.3%

-6.2%

due to price declines in MTNN (-2.3%), WAPCO (-7.1%) and INTBREW (-4.5%). Consequently, YTD return worsened to -ϭ͘ϵй ĂŶĚ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝƐĂƟŽŶ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ ďLJ

േ4.1bn. The most traded stocks by volume were ZENITH (41.4m units), GUARANTY (29.0m units) and UCAP (24.6m units) while ZENITH (േ1.1bn), GUARAN-

8 Lafarge Africa PLC 9 Access Bank PLC

16 SEPLAT Petroleum Development C 17 11 PLC 18 Okomu Oil Palm PLC 19 Fidelity Bank PLC 20 Ecobank Transnational Inc 21 Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC 22 FCMB Group Plc

TY (േϵϭϵ͘ϴŵͿ ĂŶĚ NESTLE (േ307.5m) led by value.

ĞĂƌŝƐŚ ^ĞĐƚŽƌ WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ

23 Sterling Bank PLC 24 NASCON Allied Industries PLC 25 Transnational Corp of Nigeria

Performance across sectors was poor as 4 of the 6 indices

26 Presco PLC 27 Unilever Nigeria PLC

under our coverage closed southward. The Oil & Gas index emerged as the lone gainer, up 5.0% due to price ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ SEPLAT ;нϭϬ͘ϬйͿ͘ KŶ ƚŚĞ ŇŝƉ ƐŝĚĞ͕ ƚŚĞ &Z

28 PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC 29 United Capital PLC 30 Guinness Nigeria PLC 31 Custodian and Allied Insurance 32 AIICO Insurance PLC

-/ d ĂŶĚ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ůŽƐƚ ϭ͘Ϯй ĂŶĚ Ϭ͘ϵй ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞͲ

33 Total Nigeria PLC 34 Julius Berger Nigeria PLC

ly due to declines in MTNN (-2.3%), NEM (-9.9%) and

35 Wema Bank PLC 36 Union Bank of Nigeria PLC

PRESTIGE (-ϴ͘ϳйͿ͘ ^ŝŵŝůĂƌůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ ŽŶƐƵŵĞƌ ĂŶĚ /ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů Goods

indices

closed

lower

by

45bps

and

41bps ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞůů ƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞƐ ŝŶ INTBREW (-

40 Transcorp Hotels Plc

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ĂƐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ ;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ƌĂƟŽͿ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ ƚŽ Ϭ͘ϲdž ĨƌŽŵ ƚŚĞ 0.7x recorded previously as 16 stocks advanced against 29 decliners. SEPLAT (+10.0%), AIICO (+5.2%) and COR-

ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐŝŶŐ ƌĂƚĞƐ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĮdžĞĚ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ͘ ,ŽǁĞǀĞƌ͕ ƚŚĞ ĐƵƌƌĞŶƚ ƉƌŝĐĞƐ ŽĨ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ŵĂŬĞ ĂŶ ĂƩƌĂĐƟǀĞ ĐĂƐĞ ĨŽƌ dividend yields.

3.8%

1.0x

-31.3%

0.7x

5.2% 6.8%

-14.7%

4.0%

8.1%

8.7%

39.9%

583.00

10.0%

1.5%

44.9%

44.9%

228.00

0.0%

0.8%

0.0%

0.0%

16.4%

7.6%

12.4x

1.9x

93.00

0.0%

0.8%

2.2%

2.2%

24.6%

16.0%

11.3x

2.6x

2.30

-2.1%

0.6%

-8.7%

-8.7%

10.5%

1.1%

2.5x

0.2x

8.9%

5.20

0.0%

0.6%

-13.3%

-13.3%

0.6%

0.0%

38.5x

0.2x

17.60

-1.4%

0.6%

0.0%

0.0%

30.8%

15.6%

7.2x

1.7x

8.4%

13.9%

2.98

0.0%

0.5%

-10.5%

-10.5%

10.3%

1.2%

2.8x

0.1x

4.7%

35.3%

1.48

1.4%

0.3%

-27.5%

-27.5%

9.2%

0.9%

3.7x

0.3x

2.0%

27.3%

14.40

0.0%

0.4%

-0.7%

-0.7%

18.4%

5.8%

8.3x

3.1x

2.8%

12.0%

0.83

-6.7%

0.3%

-7.8%

-7.8%

-3.5%

-0.8%

0.5x

1.1%

-7.0%

73.30

1.9%

0.3%

3.3%

3.3%

18.5%

7.7%

2.4x

2.8%

13.25

1.9%

0.2%

-4.7%

-4.7%

-2.4%

-1.6%

5.25

0.0%

0.2%

-0.9%

-0.9%

-12.2%

-5.6%

5.85

-2.7%

0.3%

24.2%

24.2%

35.5%

4.2%

23.05

0.2%

0.2%

21.3%

21.3%

-17.8%

-9.0%

6.05

0.8%

0.2%

3.4%

3.4%

13.9%

4.8%

3.0x

0.8x

1.21

5.2%

0.2%

7.1%

7.1%

21.4%

3.3%

2.7x

0.5x

142.00

0.0%

0.2%

9.2%

9.2%

20.30

0.0%

0.2%

14.0%

14.0%

3.2%

0.4%

-5.8%

-5.8%

6.8%

0.5%

0.0%

0.1%

-1.0%

0.0%

10.4x

2.6%

1.2x

4.5x

0.6x

2.0%

1.4x

12.0%

0.7x

-100.0%

0.7x

3.2x

0.4x

9.1%

3.00

-7.7%

0.1%

-18.9%

-18.9%

14.5%

2.6%

0.0%

0.1%

0.0%

0.0%

-29.7%

-8.5%

54.00

0.0%

0.1%

-2.5%

-2.5%

9.4%

6.4%

3.25

0.0%

0.0%

-9.7%

-9.7%

1.3x

8.0x

22.4%

33.0% 36.8%

6.0x

62.50

-168.3%

-28.1%

21.5x 23.7x

9.6% -2.1%

5.1%

4.7%

8.3%

4.2%

6.2%

31.7%

4.9%

16.7%

0.2x

77.4%

1.8x

-18.4%

0.7x

3.2%

12.5% -28.4%

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V o l u m e

P ric e C hg %

Vo lum e

P ric e C hg %

10.0%

Z EN IT H B A N K

41.4

-0.4%

A IIC O

1.21

5.2%

GUA R A N T Y

29.0

0.6%

C OR N ER ST

0.61

5.2%

UC A P

24.6

-2.7%

UA C -P R OP

0.84

5.0%

M A N SA R D

17.6

1.0%

C UT IX

2.23

4.2%

FB NH

16.5

0.0%

H ON YF LOUR

1.25

2.5%

T R A N SC OR P

T ic k er

15.7

-6.7%

12.7

-2.1%

P R ESC O

73.30

1.9%

F ID ELIT YB K

UN ILEVER

13.25

1.9%

UB A

8.9

0.6%

ST ER LN B A N K

1.48

1.4%

WA P C O

7.4

-7.1%

M A N SA R D

1.05

1.0%

A IIC O

7.1

5.2%

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V a l u e

T o p 10 L o s e r s T ic k er

C H A M P ION

P ric e 1.91 1.85

T ic k er

Value

P ric e C hg %

-9.9%

Z EN IT H B A N K

1060.1

-0.4%

-9.8%

GUA R A N T Y

919.8

0.6%

P ric e C hg %

NP FM CRFB K

1.72

-9.5%

N EST LE

307.5

0.0%

LIN KA SSUR E

0.51

-8.9%

SEP LA T

295.5

10.0%

NA HCO

2.08

-8.8%

M TNN

258.3

-2.3%

P R EST IGE

0.42

-8.7%

ST A N B IC

201.4

0.0%

J OH N H OLT

0.44

-8.3%

WA P C O

147.8

-7.1%

145.3

-2.7%

OA N D O

3.00

-7.7%

UC A P

R OYA LEX

0.25

-7.4%

D A N GC EM

139.9

0.0%

-7.1%

FB NH

115.8

0.0%

R EGA LIN S

Afrinvest West Africa Limited

-6.9%

3.8%

P ric e

N EM

top losers. We expect the sell-ŽīƐ ƚŽ ĐŽŶƟŶƵĞ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ

-6.9%

1.1%

583.00

T ic k er

NERST (+5.2%) were the top gainers while NEM (-9.9%), CHAMPION (-ϵ͘ϴйͿ ĂŶĚ NPFMCRFBK (-9.5%) were the

1.4%

0.0%

T o p 10 G a i n e r s

SEP LA T

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ tĞĂŬĞŶƐ

-4.5%

0.65

37 Oando PLC 38 Notore Chemical Industries Ltd 39 Beta Glass PLC

4.5%) and WAPCO (-7.1%). Lastly, the Banking index ĐůŽƐĞĚ ŇĂƚ͘

5.54 27.00

0.26

Brokerage

Asset Management

Investment Research

Adedoyin Allen | aallen@afrinvest.com

Robert Omotunde | romotunde@afrinvest.com

Abiodun Keripe | AKeripe@afrinvest.com

Taiwo Ogundipe | togundipe@afrinvest.com Christopher Omoh | comoh@afrinvest.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 4, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

35

MARKET NEWS

Royal Exchange to Delay Submission of Audited Financial Statements Goddy Egene

said it would not be able to submit its audited financial statements (AFS) for its 2020

Royal Exchange Plc yesterday 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

financial year as well as the unaudited first quarter resulted ending March 31,

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 02Mar-2021, unless otherwise stated.

2021 to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) within the timeline required by

the exchange. It said as a holding company its five subsidiaries are yet to

submit their accounts to their primary regulators for approval.

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 155.35 156.90 -3.97% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 2.32% Nigeria International Debt Fund 351.00 351.00 -2.70% Afrinvest Dollar Fund 113.03 113.03 -2.70% 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 N/A N/A N/A ACAP Income Funds N/A N/A N/A 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 0.68% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.36 3.52 -5.23% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@anchoriaam.com Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market N/A N/A N/A Anchoria Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Anchoria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Discovery Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Ethical Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Eurobond Fund ($) N/A N/A N/A ARM Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 102.87 102.87 1.14% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund N/A N/A N/A AXA Mansard Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.06 2.06 -28.18% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.20 2.24 -13.77% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 2.00% Paramount Equity Fund 15.72 16.02 -1.67% Women's Investment Fund 132.13 133.62 -0.73% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 1.61% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 128.40 129.26 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 110.17 110.17 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Coronation Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Coronation Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A FBN Balanced Fund 183.34 184.65 -2.31% FBN Halal Fund N/A N/A N/A FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 1.83% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional 123.65 123.65 2.98% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 123.79 123.79 2.98% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 150.11 152.13 -0.71% 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 N/A N/A N/A Legacy Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A Legacy Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Legacy USD Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 N/A N/A N/A Coral Income Fund N/A N/A N/A FSDH Treasury Bills Fund N/A N/A N/A

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 0.88% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 127.10 127.63 18.71% GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gdl.com.ng Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 1.36% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.70 2.76 17.53% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 4.50% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 154.30 154.74 -0.72% Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End 1.08 1.08 5.21% 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 1.36 1.38 -0.69% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,138.83 1,138.83 1.38% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Meristem Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.60 1.63 7.41% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.22 12.34 -0.11% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 1.25% PACAM Equity Fund 1.60 1.62 1.18% PACAM EuroBond Fund 109.40 112.07 -0.02% 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 127.59 129.85 5.69% 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 1.01 1.01 1.00% 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 3,137.40 3,163.92 -2.42% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 226.66 226.66 0.80% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.16 1.17 -1.27% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 296.94 296.94 0.77% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 213.46 216.11 -2.31% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 1.68% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 9,927.49 10,056.35 -5.46% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.24 1.24 1.00% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 111.76 111.76 0.61% 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 1.34 1.36 -1.82% United Capital Bond Fund 1.91 1.91 0.95% United Capital Equity Fund 0.89 0.91 2.90% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 2.95% United Capital Eurobond Fund 118.29 118.29 1.03% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.07 1.09 -0.86% United capital Sukuk Fund 1.02 1.02 2.19% 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 12.19 12.30 2.73% Zenith Ethical Fund 13.54 13.65 10.79% Zenith Income Fund 24.18 24.18 0.85% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 1.70%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

121.58 52.64

0.70% 0.46%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

12.64 118.81 94.56

12.74 118.81 96.35

-4.37% -2.41% -4.83%

Fund Name 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 Money Market 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

3.95 5.35 17.08 1.00 19.08 176.15

3.99 5.43 17.18 1.00 19.28 178.15

4.38% -5.85% 4.45% 0.33% -6.97% -20.19%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

108.05

13.11%

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.

36

THURSDAY MARCH 4, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

24 HOURS...

24 HOURS...

Alleged Money Laundering: Court Strikes out Charge against Akinjide, Two Others Davidson Iriekpen The Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has struck out the charge against a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mrs. Jumoke Akinjide

and two others on allegations of fraud and money laundering to the tune of N650million.

Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke struck out the charge for being incompetent.

The former minister was

Police Nab Suspects Who Abducted Imo Lawyer The operatives of the AntiKidnapping Unit of the Imo State Police Command have arrested three out of a group of eight suspected kidnappers, who abducted an Owerri-based legal practitioner, Mr. Chima Eze. Parading the suspects at the command’s headquarters in Owerri, the state capital, the police spokesperson, Mr. Orlando Ikeokwu, said that the súspects, Chimebere Nwangborogwu, 25; Peter Aluo, 28; and Ikechukwu Nwokejiezi, 41, were arrested after the operatives of the AntiKidnapping Unit uncovered their camp at Mbieri in the Mbaitoli Local Government Area of the state.

According to the police spokesperson, the syndicate had on February 28 kidnapped the lawyer at his house at 2, St Silas Anglican Church Road, MCC Road, Owerri North LGA of the state.

Ikeokwu said that the súspects established communication with the wife of the victim and demanded N15million ransom.

But through a painstaking investigation, the group was arrested at their den in Mbieri and with the victim rescued unhurt.

Ikeokwu also said that the syndicate also abducted one Chimankpa Nwosu of Amauzari in the Isiala Mbano LGA of the state on February 27 and demanded N50million as ransom.

The police spokesperson disclosed that the police recorded multiple cases of Kidnappings, especially the kidnap of Chima Eze of Number 2, St Silas Anglican Church Road, MCC Road, Owerri North LGA of Imo State on February 27 and Chimankpa Nwosu of Amauzari in Isiala Mbano LGA for which the Kidnappers demanded N50million and N15million, respectively.

“On February 2, at Mbieri in Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State, as a result of painstaking and diligent investigation, operatives of the command swung into action and arrested these suspects.

standing trial alongside a former senator who represented Oyo Central senatorial district between 2011 and 2015, Senator Ayo Adeseun and a PDP chieftain, Mrs. Olanrewaju Otiti.

They were alleged to have received monies from a former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani AlisonMadueke, in the build-up to the 2015 general election.

The money was said to be part of the $115 million

allegedly disbursed by AlisonMadueke, to influence the outcome of the 2015 presidential election.

They had all pleaded not guilty to the charge after which trial commenced in the matter.

The defendants objected to the trial and asked that the case be struck out.

They also insisted that they could only be tried in the division where the offences allegedly took place.

In his ruling on the application, Justice Aneke held that pursuant to Section 45 of the Federal High Court Act, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court has the overriding powers to transfer any matter from one judge to another, within the jurisdiction of the court.

The judge also held that the charge was vague and defective as it did not specifically mention where the offences

were allegedly committed.

The defendants were first arraigned on January 16, 2018, before Muslim Hassan on a 24-count charge to which they pleaded not guilty.

They were granted bail and trial began before Justice Hassan with witnesses testifying, but midway into the case, the defendants alleged bias against the judge and the case was then transferred to Justice Aneke.

PROTECTING LAGOS IDENTITY…

L-R: Nigerian Actress/Film Director, Mrs. Joke Silva; Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Folashade Jaji; Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf; and Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Mr. Solomon Bonu, during the inauguration of revamped Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos Island…yesterday

Plateau Ends Open Grazing, Makinde: Oyo Won’t Provide Land for Ranching to Commence Ranching Seriki Adinoyi inJos

Plateau State Government is set to domesticate the National Livestock Transformation Programme, as it approved a bill for the establishment of the Plateau State Livestock Transformation, which when passed into law, will promote livestock business anchored on ranching.

This was disclosed yesterday by the Director of Press to the state Governor, Simon Lalong, Dr. Makut Macham.

He said the State Executive Council (SEC) at its weekly meeting approved the transmission of the bill to the state House of Assembly for consideration by the legislature.

Also speaking on the bill, the state Commissioner for

Information and Communication, Mr. Dan Manjang, said it would facilitate the smooth transition from open grazing to ranching.

Manjang said the state has been working assiduously to put in place all necessary requirements for the take-off of the model ranching programme at the Wase and Kanam Reserves which are wholly owned by the state government.

He assured the state that once the programme takes off and alternatives are provided, the people would no longer be allowed to move around with livestock in the state, adding that local and international investors have also shown interest in putting their money in the pilot phase of the livestock transformation programme.

Niger Delta Group Rejects Buhari’s Nominee for NASDRA DG Sunday Okobi in Lagos and Udora Orizu in Abuja

A Niger Delta group and civil society organisation, the Niger Delta Coalition for Justice and Equity (NDCJE), has called on President Muhammadu Buhari, to appoint a Niger-Delta/ South-south indigene as the director-general of National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), saying it is the turn of the region to assume the position of authority as the director-general of the agency.

The group in a statement issued and made available to THISDAY yesterday by its National Coordinator, Mr. Alaowe Preye Dokubo, and National Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ode Osundi, noted that with

the role the Niger Delta plays in the development of the country, the region does not deserve such treatment.

Buhari had nominated Dr. Halilu Shaba Ahmad as the director-general of NASRDA. According to the group in the statement, “Where did the Niger Delta go wrong, in such a way that it will warrant the dropping of the most senior and adequately qualified acting Director-General of the agency from the region, Dr. Francis Chizea Dubem, who has all the prerequisite qualifications; and the sending of the name of a junior officer in hierarchy on the nominal roll to the National Assembly for confirmation as the DG? How long will it take for Dubem to be confirmed as the director-general of the agency?”

The Governor of Oyo State, Mr. Seyi Makinde, yesterday clarified that the state government will not make land available for ranching, insisting that ranching is a private business.

The governor made the clarification in a tweet in which he revealed that Oyo State will adopt the National Livestock Transformation Plan which is already being implemented in Kwara State.

Makinde, had after a

meeting with his Kwara State counterpart, Governor, Mr. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said on Twitter, that “We also agreed that the National Livestock Transformation Plan which is already being implemented in Kwara State would be implemented in Oyo State leading to further collaborations between both states on economy and security.”

But following the public reactions, which followed his tweet, which was taken to

mean an implementation of the unpopular Rural Grazing Area settlements, Makinde had to make the clarification.

In his clarification, Makinde said the state will not implement the whole of the National Livestock Transformation Plan, only the aspects it finds beneficial.

“My attention has been drawn to this tweet regarding the implementation of the National Livestock Transformation Plan during

the joint security meeting, yesterday. For the avoidance of doubt, when I said we would implement the plan, I didn’t mean a wholesale implementation.

“We will be taking aspects which are beneficial for our state. As I have stated on several occasions, our position in Oyo State is that ranching is a private business and should be carried out as such. Our admin won’t be providing land for free to private investors for ranching.”

Court Adjourns Alison-Madueke’s Fraud Case

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday adjourned the corruption case involving a former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani AlisonMadueke, who is believed to be in the United Kingdom The adjournment is the latest in the series of postponements

the money laundering case has suffered due to the absence of the former minister since it (case) was filed over two years ago.

Efforts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC) to have her extradited to Nigeria to face the charges have been stalled for many years.

The trial judge, Justice Ijeoma

Ojukwu, again adjourned the case yesterday for the EFCC to appear and report to the cour its efforts to enforce the criminal summons issued against the former minister as far back as July 2020.

Earlier on October 28, 2020, Justice Ojukwu refused to grant EFCC’s request for the issuance of a warrant of arrest against

the former minister.

The judge had said the summons she issued on July 24, 2020, ought to be sufficient for the commission to process her extradition to Nigeria to face her trial.

She then adjourned the matter till December 3 for EFCC to report on its efforts to bring the former minister to Nigeria.

Katsina Federal University Suspends Four Students over Cultism Francis Sardauna in Katsina The Federal University DutsinMa (FUDMA) in Katsina State has suspended four students of the institution over their involvement in cultism.

The Vice-Chancellor of the varsity, Prof. Armaya’u Hamisu,

who approved the indefinite suspension of the students, said their suspension was sequel to the security report signed by the acting chief Security Officer of the institution, Tanimu Dari Atiku.

Hamisu, in a statement issued to journalists yesterday by the

varsity’s acting Director, Public Relations and Protocol, Habibu Garba, warned students at all levels to desist from all forms of cultism and other social vices.

According to him, the affected students are Peter Enajo, M.Sc Sociology; Lukman N. Aminu, B.Sc Computer Science; Musa

Halidu, B.Sc Sociology and Maikasa Victor Lawal, B.Sc Sociology.

He said: “The aforementioned students who are confirmed members of various cult groups are suspended indefinitely, pending final security investigation”.

Bishop Oke Emerges New PFN National President Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan The Presiding Bishop of Sword of the Spirit Ministries and the Promoter of Precious Cornerstone University, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, has emerged the new National President of the

Pentecost Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

He emerged the new leader of PFN at the election held last Tuesday night at the Grace Cathedral in Enugu, Enugu State.

The emergence of Oke, who will spend four years in office

and renewable by another four years, was announced by the President of He’s Alive Chapel, Lagos, Pastor Austin Ukachi, who was the returning officer for the exercise.

According to a statement made available to THISDAY

yesterday by the Wale Oke Media Office, he is the seventh national president of PFN consequent upon unanimous decision of every member of the National Advisory Council (NAC) of the umbrella body of all Pentecostal churches in Nigeria.

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Pastor Abducted by Boko Haram Regains Freedom Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri Pastor Bulus Yikura, who was kidnapped by Boko Haram on Christmas Eve was last night released by his abductors, THISDAY learnt.

The clergy had in a viral video released by suspected Boko Haram fighters, pleaded

for his life after an ultimatum for his execution was given.

The House of Representatives had on Tuesday called on the federal government to secure his release from the terrorists.

A security source who spoke to THISDAY last night, said the pastor was dropped off in the evening at the outskirts of Maiduguri, the birthplace

and epicentre of Boko Haram.

Another source within the Christian community in Borno State told THISDAY that his family members were contacted to pick him up from where he was dropped.

Yikura was sighted in the viral video kneeling and begging federal government and the Christian Association

of Nigeria (CAN) to help secure his release.

He was quoted in the video pleading: “I have been given only seven days to appeal for assistance that will help me out of this torture.

“If truly you want to rescue me from this untold suffering and threat to life, then you have to act fast.

“I am also calling on the EYN president to help mobilise help that will rescue me, and also pray for me so that God will make things easy for me here”.

Due to his appeal, the federal government had promised to ensure he was not killed by the insurgents.

Yikura was abducted on

Christmas Eve last year when Boko Haram attacked Pemi village in Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State and has since been with the captors.

When contacted, the Borno State Chairman of Christians Association of Nigeria, Bishop Mohammed Naga said he had not yet set eyes on Yikura.

FG Extends Workers’ Stay-athome Directive to March 31 Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The federal government has further extended the workfrom-home directive to all public workers on Salary Grade Levels 12 and below until March 31 as a measure to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

The directive was contained in a circular issued yesterday by the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan.

In the circular titled ‘Stay-At – Home Directive continues,’ with reference number: HCSF/3065/ VOL.I/83, Yemi-Esan, noted that the latest directive was in adherence to the advice of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19.

“Further to the circular No: HCSF/3065/Vol.1/68 dated January 26, 2021, and following the advice of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, all officers on SGL 12 and below

are to continue working from home till the end of March 2021,” the circular said.

While affirming a reduction in the number of reported cases of covid-19, she however stressed that the downward trend needed to be maintained, hence the need for the extension of the work-from-home directive.

She also emphasised the need for all public servants to continue to ensure strict compliance with the existing guidelines on the prevention and spread of covid-19.

Yemi-Esan also enjoined all Permanent Secretaries and Chief Executive officers to bring the content of the circular to all concerned and ensure strict compliance.

It would be recalled that the federal government had on December 22 last year restricted civil servants from Grade Level 12 and below to stay at home for five weeks.

NDAN Appeals to Media Owners, Govt for Life Insurance The Newspaper Distribution Association of Nigeria (NDAN) has appealed to proprietors of media houses and government to collaborate on enabling environment and life insurance for vendors, decrying unfair treatment to them.

The association made this clarion call in a communique issued recently, where it listed its priority to reposition and redirect its distributions to improve standards.

Part of its requests to media houses and government also include to provide an enabling environment for distributors and vendors by improving the infrastructure.

It also urged media owners

and that government to partner the association in order to provide insurance cover for vendors in case of accident, adding that vendors and agents are endangered species, as well as other occupational hazards in the industry.

NDAN further implored the government to empower and educate distributors and vendors on their operations.

According to the communique, “Over the years, distributors and vendors had been viewed as commoners and school dropouts, but today, that has gone. Most distributors and vendors you see in the streets are graduates; some are into part-time studies in the universities and polytechnics.

Gombe Gov Defies Protests, Appoints New Mai Tangale Segun Awofadeji in Gombe In exercising the powers vested in him under the Gombe State Chieftaincy Law, 2020, and based on the recommendation of the kingmakers of the Tangale Chiefdom, the state Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has approved the appointment of Malam Danladi Sanusi Maiyamba as the Mai Tangle.

The people of Billiri Local Government Area in the state had kicked against the governor’s choice of Danladi.

They had embarked on violent protests, alleging that Danladi was defeated by another candidate, Musa Maiyamba.

The state Commissioner for Local Government and

Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Dasuki Jalo, who conveyed the governor’s approval and presented the appointment later to the new Mai Tangle in Poshiya, Billiri LGA, said the appointment of Maiyamba was informed by his personal qualities and suitability.

According to a statement issued by the Director General (Press Affairs) of the Government House, Ismaila Uba Misilli, which made available to journalists yesterday, “The presentation ceremony was witnessed by the chairperson of Billiri LGA, nine kingmakers of the Billiri chiefdom, members of the traditional council and other functionaries.”

Presentation of Staff of Office will be done in due course, he added.

WAR AGAINSTKILLER HERDSMEN…

L-R: Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Brigade Commander of 35 Artillery Brigade, Abeokuta, Brig. Gen. EJ Amadasun; Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Ahmed Tijani Abdullahi; Commandant, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Hammed Abodunrin; and Commandant Amotekun Corps, David Akinremi, during the inauguration of the Joint Security Interventions Squad at the Memorial Arcade, Governor’s Office, Abeokuta…Tuesday

Senate Accuses NNPC of Payment of N443bn as Subsidy Without Appropriation Udora Orizu in Abuja The Senate Committee on Public Accounts has uncovered how the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) paid N443 billion without appropriation.

The Chairman of the Senate, Senator Mathew Urhoghide who frowned at the development, summoned the corporation to explain the expenditure.

The invitation of the Committee was a result of the report of the

Auditor General of Federation, 2016 report which was being considered by the Committee.

The audit query reads, “During the examination of Subsidy records provided by FAAC, it was observed that total subsidy paid during the year 2016 was N443,940,559,974.80.

Oil Marketers- Arrears for 2014 Paid in 2015 -Payments during the Year 2016 without Interest 403,321,449,046.76 Interest & Forex Differential 40,619,110,928.04

totalling N443,940,559,974.80 Subsidy Deducted at Source

By NNPC. “This reflects continuing weaknesses in the budgeting process adopted by the Federal Government.”

The Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, told the Committee that the NNPC will be in a better position to explain the extra-budgetary spending.

The Committee also summoned the Central Bank of Nigeria over

disappearance of $9.5 million interest from Investment Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), Royalty and Foreign Excess Crude.

The invitation was sequel to the 2016 Auditor General Report which accused the Central Bank of Nigeria failing to present documents supporting the investment for verification.

The Senate observed no letter supporting the investment of the fund and the actual amount invested were not made known.

Coalition Accuses Northern Govs of Fueling Kidnapping to Divert Public Funds Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano A coalition of 15 northern-based civil society organisations (CSOs) yesterday in Kano, Kano State, accused some northern governors of allegedly turning the rising cases of kidnapping and banditry in the region to money spinning ventures.

The groups under the umbrella of Non-State Actors Consultative Forum (NOSACOF) also kicked against Governors of Zamfara and Katsina States, and other

elites in the North calling for negotiation with terrorists as an alternative to military intervention to end insecurity in the country.

Addressing journalists in Kano yesterday on the state of insecurity in northern Nigeria, the Co-convener of coalition, Mr. Ibrahim Waiya, alleged that political actors in the North have devised a new strategy to swindling public resources through negotiation with bandits.

Waiya stressed that the new

trend being orchestrated to undermine the national security architecture and efforts of the military to stop the invasion of terrorists may spell dome for the country if not quickly addressed.

He also condemned the action of the governors, “who are granting amnesty to bandits, terrorists and abductors,” insisted that such action was clearly an act of legitimising terrorism in the country.

The co-convener disclosed that

the forum was discontented with the huge resources that exchange hands between politicians and the bandits in the name of ransom, adding that the governors have failed to address poverty and joblessness which remain the root cause of insecurity in the North.

He contended that paying bandits ransom was the same as empowering the terrorists with public funds to purchase more sophisticated weapons against the state.

Lawan Urges FG to Adopt PPP Approach in Construction of Major Roads Chuks Okocha and Udora Orizu in Abuja

President of the Senate, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, yesterday urged the executive arm of government to adopt a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach so that necessary funding needed for the completion of some major roads in the country will be provided by investors.

Lawan made the appeal in his contribution in support of a motion on the need for the

construction of the Badagry/ Sokoto expressway, which was sponsored by Senator Umar Sadiq Suleiman and 11 others.

He noted that the government needed not to provide all the funding, hence the need to come up with a proposal on how these roads would be funded.

According to him, “If roads, including those that may be termed not economically viable, are neglected, the communities in those areas will never see improved prosperity.

“There are some roads you construct or build through PPP arrangements. But the government is supposed to consider some roads, especially those that may be termed not economically viable, because, if you neglect them, the communities in those areas will never see correct prosperitywhere roads are supposed to help provide that.

“This is a major road, and there will be a lineup of investors wanting to invest. Since we have

companies that are willing-there are many consortiums that came into Nigeria seeking to invest on roads-so we should provide the legislative support and comfort for such companies to feel that when they invest, they are able to get back profits. We should be on same page with the executive arm of government, and our committees should engage the Federal Ministry of Works in particular to ensure that this particular road sees some kind of revival.”

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THURSDAY MARCH 4, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

THURSDAYSPORTS

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

NBC Restates Stand on Advertisements on Foreign Sports Contents Proposed DSO partnership with NPFL creates excitement in football circles

Duro Ikhazuagbe Ahead of the implementation of the Ministerial Task Force on the Digital Switch Over which will allow football content from the Nigerian Professional Football League to be generously used on Set Top Boxes, the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) yesterday amended the Acquisition of Sports Right law 6.2.11.

The NBC said on its Twitter handle that “Advertisement of products and services during prime foreign sports contents shall not be broadcast unless the advertiser equally sponsors

and or advertises such products and services in the broadcast of prime local sports content in the same category, where such local sports contents produced in Nigeria are available.”

Earlier on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, while inaugurating the Task Force on the DSO had said that the success of the project depends on the content it offers.

He strongly advised that apart from entertainment and children’s programmes, partnership with the NPFL would provide it rich football content. ‘‘We can work with the

Odion Ighalo Considers Returning to Super Eagles Former Manchester United striker, Odion Jude Ighalo, has said that he will take his time to decide whether to return to the Super Eagles as Head Coach, Gernot Rohr, wants him to come out of international retirement.

The 31-year-old quit international football after finishing as top scorer at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt in 2019.

But his red-hot form during a recent loan spell in England and at new club Al-Shabab of Saudi Arabia where he has three goals and an assist in five appearances, has led to calls

by Rohr for him to return to the fold.

Asked if he might make an international comeback, Ighalo told BBC Sport Africa: “I have been approached by the coach, but I haven’t decided yet whether this is a path I want to follow again.

“We’ve been talking about it for a while and hopefully soon I will make that decision.”

Victor Osimhen has been filling the void left by Ighalo’s departure in the Super Eagles

and the Napoli striker is the overall top scorer with four goals in the 2022 Nations Cup qualifying series.

However, Super Eagles’ Franco-German gaffer has struggled to find another striker to compliment Osimhen, with the likes of Paul Onuachu and Kelechi Iheanacho failing to convince him.

“I need to decide because I have huge respect for my country and the coach, so it’s only fair to let people know where you stand,” he added.

Ighalo captained Nigeria’s youth side at the Under-20 World Cup in 2009 but then had a six-year wait for his senior debut in an international friendly at home to Uganda in Uyo. The Edo-born forward endured death threats aimed at his family after failing to score at the 2018 World Cup. But he produced seven goals to finish top scorer in the 2019 Nations Cup qualifying and his five goals and one assist helped Eagles finish third at the tournament in Egypt.

First AFN Evaluation Meet for Tokyo Olympics to Hold Next Weekend The first evaluation meet towards getting Nigeria’s track and field athletes in top shape for this summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo will hold next weekend at the sports ground of the Federal University of Technology (FUTA) in Akure, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria has announced.

The two-day event, according to Secretary General of the AFN, Prince Adeniyi Beyioku, will be the first in a series of activities lined up by the federation in conjunction with the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development to prepare the athletes for the Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.

“FUTA in Akure will host the first of the events and all our home-based athletes are expected at the venue as they are also trying to meet the qualification standard set by World Athletics for the Games,” said Beyioku.

“The event will actually be the second organised by the AFN led

by Honourable Olamide George

this year after the All-Comers Meet held on the same ground last month,” Beyioku added.

The AFN through its athletes has won 13 of the 25 medals Nigeria has won at the Olympics including two of the three gold medals.

“We are looking good for another successful trip to the games,” said Gabriel Okon, the federation’s Performance Director.

“Favour Ofili and Ruth Usoro have added to the list of athletes who have met the qualifying standards for the games and we believe the evaluation meet will enable more athletes to get the standard and be in top shape for the biggest event of the year,” said Okon.

NPFL (Rescheduled Matches) Plateau Utd

1-1

Rivers Utd

W’ Wolves

1-1

Enyimba

Dakkada

2-1

Wikki

Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) to have all their weekly matches shown live. I have no doubt that they will be willing to work with us in this regard,’‘ he added.

Although details of the partnership with the NPFL are still being worked out, the move is already creating a buzz in the football circles as it is capable of injecting the much needed funds into the cash-strapped domestic football industry. The topflight league, after several seasons without sponsors, came up with the ingenuity of putting NPFL matches on television and live streaming through the NPFL.tv.

NPFL.tv model is a hybrid of online subscription, cable and Free-to-air television (on NTA). Projection is that it will reach at least one million paying subscribers online whilst doing magazine and live match shows on terrestrial television.

Already, the LMC, producers of NPFL.tv, has broached novel paths by producing 28 matches as at Match-day 11 of the current season. It also broadcast the last CAF Confederation Cup Play off Match between two of Nigeria’s top clubs Enyimba FC and Rivers United.

Interestingly, the NPFL.tv is manned by a wholly Nigerian

crew, using some of the worldclass legacy equipment bought by the Federal Government for the hosting of the age grade FIFA World Cup tournaments as well as the COJA 2003 African Games and now under the control of NTA. As at the last count, the NPFL.tv is now taking the Nigerian domestic football content to the world with over 140 counties now watching the NPFL. Speaking on the development with THISDAY yesterday, Chairman of the League Management Company (LMC), Shehu Dikko, said: “Well, the partnership will bring in the needed visibility to drive

Shehu Dikko...LMC Chairman

the progress and revenue generation capabilities of the league.

Odion Ighalo retired from the Super Eagles after leading Nigeria to win the bronze at AFCON 2019 in Egypt. Now, he’s considering coming out of retirement

PREMIER LEAGUE

Phenomenal Iheanacho Rescues Point for Leicester at Burnley Nigerian international, Kelechi Iheanacho scored an absolutely phenomenal equalizing goal last night to earn Leicester City one point in the 1-1 draw at Burnley.

Wilfred Ndidi lifted the long ball to Iheanacho but Super Eagles forward wasted no time in hammering the volley for the equalizing goal.

With Harvey Barnes having joined James Maddison on

the Foxes’ injury list and Jamie Vardy having only just returned from his own lay-off, Iheanacho gave his side the attacking edge they required courtesy of a volleyed equaliser midway through the first half.

Leicester had earlier gifted the home side the lead, with Hamza Choudhury’s under-hit pass near his own box allowing Matej Vydra to nip in, beat a man and then fire a shot into

the roof of the net.

There were chances to win the game for both sides, but goalkeepers Nick Pope and Kasper Schmeichel each produced a typically excellent display.

Foxes keeper Scmeichel was particularly impressive, diving to superbly save headers from James Tarkowski and Chris Wood.

Iheanacho was substituted

in the 66th minute by Marc Albrighton.

Both teams also hit the post in the second half - Ashley Westwood for Burnley with a volleyed effort from a tight angle and Youri Tielemens for Leicester with a shot from the edge of the box.

It is a useful point for Burnley, who extend the gap between themselves and 18th-placed Fulham to six points.

‘Ijesa Grand Marathon Will Be a Festival of Sports and Music’ Organisers of the maiden Ijesa Grand Marathon, a 10km road race in Ilesa have said that the event will be a festival of sports and music.

The race is scheduled to hold on Saturday, April 3, 2021 in Ilesa.

Sponsor and Chief Organiser of the event, Tijani Remilekun Usman, said yesterday that arrangements are in place to make the race one of the best organised in the South-west region in particular and Nigeria in general.

“We want to use the race to celebrate the entrepreneurial

spirit of Ijeshas and re-awaken that spirit in a new digital economy. We also want to use the race to showcase the beautiful road networks in Ilesa, the capital of Ijesaland as well as the culture and tradition of our people,” he said and revealed that a road race expert, Chief Tony Osheku has been engaged for the technical organisation of the one-day event.

“We have, through Chief Osheku drawn up a checklist of what is to be done and so far, we are following every item including the timelines set for

them to the letter.”

“General” as Usman is fondly called in Ilesa because of his philanthropy also revealed the event of April 3rd will not be limited to the thousands of Ijeshas and other national athletes who have registered to run on the day but also to others in their thousands who are mostly youths.

“Yes we have made the event to be a festival of sort, festival of sports and music as we have engaged popular Fuji musician, Taiye Currency and hip-hop star, 9ice to perform after the race.

“Remember the race will be run during the Easter period and we want all Ijesas and our visitors to have fun with us and witness first hand how hospitable Ijesa people are,” he said. ‘’The race will begin at the Ilesa stadium in Irojo and terminate in front of the new, ultra modern Palace of our highly esteemed Royal Highness, His Majesty Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland.

The race has the backing of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria,” he concluded.

THURSDAY MARCH 4, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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“We ask the security agencies to question the governor on the identities of the criminals he is trying to hide. If he refuses to disclose their identities, he must be treated as an accomplice to the criminal act of kidnapping. People in positions of authority like Matawalle must stop embarrassing the north and country with careless statements” – Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) on Zamfara Governor’s claim that he knows the identities of kidnappers of school children in his state.

OLUSEGUNADENIYI THE VERDICT

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Where is Murtala Nyako?

O n 16th April 2014, the Northern Governors Forum met in Kaduna to discuss the security challenge facing the region at the time.

Three days later, Admiral Murtala Nyako (rtd), then Governor of Adamawa State, released a memo he presented at the session titled ‘On-Going Full-Fledged Genocide in Northern Nigeria’. In the poorly written, long-winding memo, Nyako accused the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan of using “mass murderers/cut-throats imbedded in our legitimate and traditional Defence and Security organizations” to carry out ‘genocide’ against the North.

It was shocking that a former Chief of Naval Staff, who had also served as governor of Niger State during the military era, would mix politics with security. But it was obvious at the time that Nyako’s ‘memo’ was a political hack job meant to portray President Jonathan in a bad light less than ten months to the general election. Sadly, rather than calling him to order, Nyako was actually hailed by many northerners.

Meanwhile, two weeks after Sheikh Ahmad Gumi’s toxic statement that is clearly a threat to national security, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and those who recently took turns to shout down Bishop Hassan Matthew Kukah, remain deaf and dumb. State Security Service (SSS) operatives who spend valuable time reading Twitter posts and looking for who to abduct and detain also have no issue with a man whose polarising rhetoric undermines the war against insurgency. But before I make my point, I crave the indulgence of readers to go to the substance of my 24th April 2014 column titled, ‘Who is Nyako Speaking for?’, reproduced below. ================================== NYAKO’S CHARGE ONE: Fulani communities in parts of the North who have been in their locations for over 100 years are now being raided and uprooted by paid killers within the Nigerian Army for the satisfaction of the federal administration instead of being protected as citizens with their rights and dignity safe-guarded. This has happened to those communities at Keana L.G. in Nasarawa State and Laddoga and Kachia in Kaduna State. It is presently extended to Benue, Zamfara and Katsina States.

Furthermore, it is a well-known fact that virtually all the soldiers of Northern Nigerian origin recently recruited to fight Boko-Haram have been deceived in that aspect. They are being poorly trained, totally ill-equipped, given only uniform and are killed by their trainers in Nigerian Army training centres as soon as they arrive in the Nigerian Army camps being used by so-called Boko-Haram insurgents. Virtually all the Nigerian Army soldiers killed/murdered in these operations so far are of Northern Nigerian origin. The Administration has also hired militia from all across especially North Africa who have been deceived into accepting to come because they were made to believe that they would be fighting infidels.

MY TAKE: For a former Service Chief this is intolerable, especially as it is totally

Murtal Nyako false and I say that with every sense of responsibility since I have checked with the leadership of our armed forces. Because it would dampen morale to publish names of the men and officers who have been killed

by Boko Haram and where they hail from, I have been advised not to but at least I can confirm that between January this year to date, we have lost three officers, including a Colonel while eight other officers are now seriously wounded. But for the benefit of those who enjoy this ‘North’ and ‘South’ division, the claim that more Northerners have been killed is false. I am sure Nyako can easily get the list of victims if what he desires is fact while I recommend for him the current edition of SOJA (a magazine of the Nigerian military) so he can see reports about the latest casualties of the Boko Haram madness. And if he is that caring about the military, he should take a visit to the 44 Military Reference Hospital in Kaduna to see many of our wounded soldiers and officers who are paying the price for the irresponsibility of our political class that is culpable for the menace of Boko Haram.

It is sad that our soldiers who have been called to make sacrifices in the bid to clear the mess created by our politicians in what is dubbed ‘Operation Zamani Lafiya’ are being treated with so much disrespect with wild and patently divisive allegations. For instance, Nyako knows that the Nigerian army today trains its men in three locations (Jaji, Kotangora and Bauchi) and these are northern towns. So, how can ‘Northern trainees’ be killed by their trainers in those towns and there would not have been mayhem all this while? What does Nyako want to achieve with this allegation?

NYAKO’S CHARGE TWO: Clearly the victims of the administration’s evil-mindedness are substantially Northern Nigerians. The administration is bent on bringing wars in the North between Muslims and Christians and within them and between one ethnic group and another in various communities in the region. Cases of mass murders by its bloody minded killers and cut-throats are well known, but it attributes the killings to so-called Boko-Haram.

MY TAKE: What Nyako is saying is that all the killings in the North have been by the federal government. This is not only offensive to the memory of those who have died as a result of terrorism, sometimes in brutal manner, it is also a revisionism that should never be condoned. The Boko Haram insurgency predates President Jonathan so I fail to understand Nyako’s interpretation that it is the Nigerian State that is behind the killings. How? I have been speaking with top people in the military and the security agencies, especially those from the North and they dismiss such theory offhand as mere politics. Incidentally, I recently had a two-hour interaction with the National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) and he shared with me interesting perspective on the nature of the terrorism we confront.

The NSA has a thesis on the violence in the North that is completely at variance with Nyako’s yet he is as Northern as they come.

He is a Dasuki, afterall! The current Minister of Defence, Lt General Aliyu Mohammed Gusau (rtd) earned his stripes as well as local and international respect not only as a military man but also for his network in the security world. So, if there were any ‘genocide’ going on, there is no way Gusau would not know. If the argument is that the insurgency is being mismanaged by the current administration or even that it has no real commitment to addressing the challenge, I can understand. But to suggest that it is the federal government, and not Boko Haram, that is behind the killings (and the abduction of innocent female students) makes no sense. Neither does the claim by Aso Rock apologists who peddle the equally preposterous proposition that Boko Haram, whose victims are mainly northerners, is an Arewa political construct to checkmate President Jonathan because he is a Southern Christian!

NYAKO’S CHARGE THREE: Thousands of our young girls and boys have been kidnapped by clearly organised militia in the last few years and kidnapping is now a random affair all over the far North. These organized kidnappers must have the backing of the federal administration for them to move about freely with abducted children just as those who convey ammunitions and explosives from the ports to the safe-houses of so called Boko-Haram in the North.

Hurrah we are no longer being deceived!

We no longer accept let alone believe that our prominent Mallams in the Mosques in Kano and Zaria have been killed by ‘innocent’ Boko-Haram members...We know where we are now pointing our fingers.

MY TAKE: At a time we should all unite to heal the pains of those suffering as a result of the growing violence in our country while seeking solution to the challenge that confronts us all, Nyako is pushing the logic of victim and perpetrator that can only further compromise our national security.

Since Nyako seems unable to appreciate the danger of what he is doing, I will strongly recommend for him to go and read “Making sense of political violence in postcolonial Africa”, a paper written by Professor Mahmood

Mamdani, an Ugandan and one of Africa’s foremost scholars. What the governor does not understand is that his narrative (the victim’s psychology, as Mamdana calls it), only encourages entrepreneurs of violence to reinforce their propensity for killing as the only effective guarantee against being victimized in future (the logic of attack being the best defence). That unfortunately, as Mamdani argues most brilliantly, is a one-way ticket to Kigali!

NYAKO’S CHARGE FOUR: Dear citizens of Eastern Nigerian origin please note that this federal administration under your son is giving you a very bad name! He takes wrong decisions and seems to be heading us to the abyss. Let’s therefore team up to save our freedom, dignity and rights. The issue now is not between North and South or Northern Nigeria vs Eastern Nigeria or Western Nigeria.

We must save our communities, State and Nigeria from the Hitler-like evil-mindedness of a few...We should always condemn any action by any group of people that would set our communities and nation aflame. One is quite sure that if you had condemned the cold-blooded murder of political and military leaders of Northern and Western Nigerian origins in the night of 15 January, 1966 by your sons it would not have led to the subsequent massacre of the innocent and the Nigerian Civil War. MY TAKE: Even when President Jonathan is from the South-south zone, Nyako had to re-invent ‘Eastern Nigeria’ in a not-so-veiled reference to the circumstances that led to Nigeria’s first and second military coups, the killings that followed and ultimately the civil war. Nyako is not only laying the responsibility for the tragic calamities of the First Republic on people from a particular region but also pointing fingers in their direction as encouraging such tragedy again by acts of omission or commission because their ‘son’ is now the president.

Nothing can be more dangerous. But then it fits into a pattern. The general anomalous and divisive trend to which Nyako’s toxic missive belongs is familiar Nigerian politics.

Our politicians would generally pull down the house if their interests and survival are at stake. The case of Nyako a.k.a. ‘Baba Mai Mangoro’ is more pathetic because here is a man whom Nigeria has given everything in the past from head of the Navy to incredible wealth in retirement and subsequent political pre-eminence. More disastrously, Nyako has gone against the grain of his basic training and oath as a military man. The defense of national unity has remained the irreducible minimum traits of our ex-military leaders irrespective of their subsequent political travails and differences. Even more embarrassing is Nyako’s rank ignorance about the cause of the Civil War. Unfortunately, he would smuggle this ignorance and mischief into his new found political agenda in a manner that fatally threatens the unity and future of the country as an inclusive polity founded on diversity.

NOTE: Piece concluded on page 14

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