THURSDAY 11TH MARCH 2021 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

Stakeholders Foresee Growth Opportunities in NSE’s Demutualisation SEC, CAC approve new status for bourse Goddy Egene Stakeholders in the capital market have hailed the final approval given by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the

Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for the demutualisation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), saying it will lead to the growth of the market and the economy. The approval by SEC and

CAC has led to the completion of the demutualisation process of the exchange, transforming it into a profit-making and limited liability company. With the demutualisation, a new non-operating holding

company, the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), has been created with three operating subsidiaries. The subsidiaries are: Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX Limited), which will be

the operating exchange; NGX Regulation Limited (NGX REGCO), the independent regulation company; and NGX Real Estate Limited (NGX RELCO), the real estate company.

Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON), Chief Onyewenchukwu Ezeagu, said Continued on page 8

Okonjo-Iweala Cautions Nigeria, Others against Bilateral Trade Agreements... Page 6 Thursday 11 March, 2021 Vol 26. No 9468. Price: N250

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Labour Threatens Strike over Minimum Wage Decentralisation Bill... Page 47

Irabor Talks Tough, Orders Troops to Smoke Out Unrepentant Bandits 25 terrorists eliminated in Borno

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor, yesterday charged troops to be ruthless and more aggressive in dealing with unrepentant bandits in the North-west. Irabor, in his maiden operational directive to the troops, since assumption of office ordered the troops to remain focused, committed and resolute in discharging

their duties. The order came just as troops eliminated 25 terrorists in a fierce encounter in the North-east following an earlier battle order issued by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru. A statement yesterday by the Director, Defence Information, Brig.Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, quoted the CDS Continued on page 8

Repatriated £4.2m Belongs to Delta, Say House, Falana, Azinge State govt weighs options Alex Enumah, Emmanuel Addeh, Udora Orizu in Abuja and Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba TThe Delta State Government yesterday got support from the House of Representatives as well as two Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), Professor Epiphany Azinge and Mr. Femi Falana, to lay claims to the £4.2 million recovered by the

United Kingdom due to be repatriated to Nigeria soon. The House at plenary asked the federal government to suspend plans to spend the money as it belongs to the state. Azinge and Falana also rejected the expenditure outlay the federal government released on Tuesday. Continued on page 8

INOCULATED... Nasarawa State Governor, Mr. Abdullahi Sule (left), receives his COVID-19 vaccine in Laﬁa…yesterday

Akeredolu, Fayemi, Others Take COVID-19 Vaccine Jab... Page 5

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 •T H I S D AY

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 • T H I S D AY

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 •T H I S D AY

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

Akeredolu, Fayemi, Others Take COVID-19 Vaccine Jab More states receive consignments

Our Correspondents Governors Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, and Gboyega Oyetola of Osun State, were among the six governors, who took their COVID-19 vaccine yesterday as more states took delivery of their consignments. Other governors who were administered with the vaccines yesterday include: Malam Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State, Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa and Abubakar Bello of Niger State. This comes as additional states – Adamawa, Bauchi, Kwara, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, and Niger took delivery of their vaccines yesterday. Bello; his deputy, Alhaji Mohammed Ketso, and members of the Niger State Executive Council yesterday took their jab of the vaccine in Minna, the state capital. The vaccine was administered to the governor by his physician, Dr. Shehu Ahmed, at Government House. Speaking after receiving his dosage, Bello said he received a lot of calls and text messages particularly from members of the executive council on whether or not the vaccination should be allowed. "We all need it, once it is done, we will be able to convince Niger residents that it is safe," he said He directed that any member of the state executive council that did not submit his or herself for the vaccination should not be allowed into the Council Chambers. The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Muhammad Makunsidi, said that the state received the first batch of 74,110 doses of COVID-19 vaccines which would be given to one per cent of the estimated population of Niger State. El-Rufai also took the first dose, assuring the people that the vaccine is safe. Sule alongside his deputy, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, received their inoculation in the Government House, Lafia about 11:00 am. Speaking after receiving the first dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, Sule said the vaccine was very safe and called on residents to disabuse their minds about any doubt. Akeredolu took the first Jab alongside his deputy, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, at the Cocoa

Conference Centre, Governor’s Office, Alagbaka, Akure. The Osewawe of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Victor Kiladejo; Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi; former governors and former deputy governors were all invited to receive their dose. Akeredolu said in line with the guidelines laid down by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the eligible population for the COVID-19 vaccination is citizens aged 18 years and above, including pregnant women. He disclosed that the vaccination exercise would be rolled out in four phases, adding that the first recipients will be front-line health workers, COVID-19 Rapid Response Team, laboratory network, petrol station workers, policemen, and strategic leadership. Fayemi and top members of his cabinet also received their jabs. The governor and his deputy, Mr. Bisi Egbeyemi, were vaccinated at the State Executive Council Chambers, New Governor's Office, Ado Ekiti. The Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Funminiyi Afuye; the governor’s wife, Bisi; and others received theirs at a ceremony held at the State Pavilion in Fajuyi area of Ado Ekiti. Fayemi while speaking at the event said a total of 50,000 persons, consisting of top government officials, frontline medical personnel, and other public officers would be vaccinated in the first phase of the exercise. Osun State Governor, Oyetola, also took the vaccine at the Government House, Osogbo. It was administered by the Chief Medical Director, Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, Prof. Peter Olaitan. The vaccine was also administered on his wife, Kafayat; the Deputy Governor, Mr. Benedict Alabi, and some senior officials of the government. Oyetola said the decision to be part of the first set of citizens to take the vaccine was to build confidence in the public, particularly citizens and residents of the state that the vaccine is safe. The governor noted that the move is also aimed to demonstrate leadership after

some of the frontline medical personnel had been vaccinated accordingly.

More States Receive Consignments Meanwhile, more states yesterday took delivery of the vaccine. The Adamawa State Chairman of the COVID-19 Containment Committee and the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Bashiru Ahmed confirmed that the state received 59,200 doses of the COVID 19 vaccine on Tuesday night. Ahmed said the committee had trained some health personnel drawn across the 21 local government areas on how to administer the vaccine. Enugu State Government alongside Ebonyi and Anambra states, also yesterday took delivery of the first batch of Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. The vaccine for Enugu State, which arrived the Enugu airport about 2:50 pm, through Allied Air, was received on behalf of the Enugu State government by

the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Emmanuel Ikechukwu Obi; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ifeanyi Agujiobi; the Executive Secretary, Enugu State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. George Ugwu, and heads of Development Partners in the state, such as World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, among others. Speaking to journalists, Obi said the state government was highly delighted that the longawaited vaccine had arrived the state. Kwara State government’s consignment was received by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Abubakar Ayinla, at the Ilorin International Airport. Speaking with journalists during the event, the Executive Secretary Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Nusirat Elelu, said the state was excited to take delivery. Bauchi State Deputy Governor, Senator Baba Tela, also, yesterday took delivery of the state’s allocation, promising that the state government will commence vaccination today. States such as Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Oyo and Taraba were yet to receive allocations yesterday.

Lagos to Begin Vaccine Rollout Weekend In a related development, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said the vaccine would be rolled out this weekend. Sanwo-Olu said a steering committee set up for its administration is in its final stage of preparation for its deployment, explaining that the state has a clear-cut strategy for the vaccine distribution. The governor spoke when he received the country representative of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Walter Mulombo, during a courtesy visit at the Government House, Alausa. The first consignment of 507,000 doses provided by the federal government arrived in Lagos on Tuesday. Sanwo-Olu said he was optimistic that the vaccine rollout would be successfully implemented, adding that the State’s Primary Healthcare Board would lead the effort in achieving herd immunity. He said: “We have instituted a steering committee for the vaccine administration, which comprises health practitioners in the public and private sectors.

They have designed a robust vaccine implementation strategy and they have identified various segments of our citizens who need to get first and in what order. “Working with the State Primary Healthcare Board, we will start administering the vaccine by the weekend. We are leading from the front to convince our citizens that the vaccine is needed to build resistance, especially among frontline workers and those who have underlying issues.” The governor said the curve of the second wave of the virus had been flattened in Lagos, but added that the State still faced some challenging issues in the response. He said the state had put in place an elaborate process to ensure the vaccine administration succeeds. Sanwo-Olu said health remained a critical component of his administration’s programmes in boosting human capital index, while also pledging the State’s readiness to partner with W.H.O in new areas of collaboration. Mulombo said the W.H.O recognised the Lagos State government’s contribution towards making Nigeria poliofree.

PURSUING GREATER LAGOS... Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu (left), and Acting Consul-General, Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mr. Arie Plieger, during the consul-general’s visit to the governor in Ikeja…yesterday

FG Grants Provisional Award Tenders for 57 Marginal Oilfields To earn $500m in signature bonuses Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja with agency report The federal government has provisionally awarded tenders to develop 57 of its marginal oilfields, which could net the government $500 million in signature bonuses. A report yesterday by Reuters quoted four sources familiar with the matter as saying that provisional award letters were sent last week by the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR). Although a DPR's spokesman did not immediately return a call, seeking comment, a source within the company told

THISDAY that the company was planning a detailed statement on the development before the end of the week, saying that it remains a public event. The DPR, it was further learnt, requested payment within 45 days in order for the bid winners to secure the awards of the marginal fields which are smaller oil blocks typically developed by indigenous companies. Nigeria is looking to boost production from the fields to bolster state finances and increase local participation in the oil sector, which provides the bulk of the country's foreign exchange. While local companies have

become increasingly important to the industry, it remains dominated by international oil majors. The 57 oilfields in the current auction, which was launched last June, are part of the first marginal field round in nearly 20 years. DPR head, Mr. Sarki Auwalu, had said previously that he expected Nigeria to net $500 million from the signature bonuses, which companies, for the first time, pay in either dollars or naira. The sources said the bonuses each company would pay range from a few million dollars to

more than $12 million. As of last month, 161 bidders were still in the race for the fields. One of the letters seen by Reuters awards a share of one of the fields and said the company will be expected to develop it with several unnamed companies. Sources said that the DPR was awarding each field to more than one company, a process referred to as "arranged marriages" in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. However, there have been questions over the openness of the process, with some participants saying that it lacks transparency, and that placing

companies together on fields without their agreement could hinder field development. Of the 24 fields awarded in the last round in 2002, only 13 are producing, while the government revoked the 11 non-producing licences, though there are ongoing legal challenges. In an interview with ARISE NEWS Channel, THISDAY's broadcast arm, recently, the DPR Director stated that the 57 fields that were picked were some of the most lucrative in the country. He stated that the criteria for picking the bidders for the final rounds were open, while some of the requirements were impeccable

evidence that bidders have an inclusive programme for the people of the communities have a spread of Nigerian outlook and must have a strong financial base. He added that agencies like the Financial Intelligence Unit, Department of State Service and Federal Inland Revenue were involved in qualifying and validating all the information supplied by the applicants to ensure credibility. Auwalu added that there would be no political interference in the awards, noting that “discretion is very impracticable” in the current process unlike in the past.

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Okonjo-Iweala Cautions Nigeria, Others against Bilateral Trade Agreements Dike Onwuamaeze The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has urged Nigeria to guard against entering into unfavourable bilateral trade agreements with rich countries. She advised Nigeria and other African countries to embrace multilateral trade agreements through the WTO instead of entering into agreements that might put them at a disadvantaged position in global trade. Okonjo-Iweala, during the Forbes Leading Women Summit 2021 edition tagged “One-on-One with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala,” held virtually on Tuesday as part of activities to mark the 2021 International Women’s Day, said: “The WTO is important because it provides a forum for multilateral trade. So, what else has Nigeria got to do, and African countries have to do so that we do not enter into a lot of bilateral trade relationships with rich countries where we will be at a disadvantage? We must bring them to the multilateral negotiation table at the WTO, Nigeria included.” Besides, she called on Nigeria, and Africa in general, to look inward and be keen to use all available tools to increase their productions and sell in order to attain sustainable development and improve Africa’s share of global trade that is currently

hovering between two and three per cent. She added: “If you want to trade more and be part of the global system, you need to step back and look internally at what you can produce. To trade more, you have to produce more. For Nigeria, I think we need to look at the diversification of our products. As you can see, many countries are moving away from fossil fuels because they have high carbon emissions and turning to renewable. So, we have to think ahead in Nigeria about what does this means?” She stated that the WTO would develop rules to strengthen the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and integrate them into regional and global value chains as a way of bringing in marginalised population. “First, let me look at it from the perspective of trying to bring in marginalised population. There is a lot we are doing to look at the MSMEs and the rules of trade that could help bring those enterprises into regional and global value chains where they can participate in global trade. So, we are looking at how we can make rules that are supportive of MSMEs for trade. And how we can also work with governments and other organisations to get investments into the MSMEs companies because most of them felt the liquidity crunch that is always a problem to women

in trade,” Okonjo-Iweala said. She, however, urged governments to empower women with educational, financial and legal supports and develop policies that

could identify and fill the gaps in supporting women empowerment. “But above all, we have to make sure that women are given a chance in the cabinets and

in the private sector as CEOs,” she said, adding that women must be prepared to deal with gender stereotypes without being distracted. She explained that she suffered

gender stereotype recently when a Swedish newspaper greeted her appointment at the WTO with a headline that screamed: “66-year-old Grandma Takes over the Leadership of the WTO.”

ON MATTERS OF STATE... L-R: Chief of Staﬀ to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari; National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno (rtd); and Minister of State for Education, Hon. Emeka Nwajiuba, during the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja…yesterday

Bawa Testifies in N1.4bn Oil Subsidy Fraud Case Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja The ongoing trial of Mr. Abubakar Peters and his company, Nadabo Energy Limited, for an alleged N1.4 billion fraud before Justice C.A. Balogun of the Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, continued yesterday with the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, making history as the first chairman of the commission to give evidence in court. An EFCC statement said Bawa, who testified as the fifth prosecution witness, PW5, had begun his examination-in-chief on June 3, 2015 long before his appointment as the EFCC chairman. Before yesterday’s proceedings,

Bawa had given evidence against the defendants, who pleaded "not guilty" to the alleged fraud. Bawa had said Nababo Energy Limited allegedly obtained N1,464,961,978.24 from the federal government as oil subsidy with forged documents. Bawa had also told the court that after studying the documents submitted to the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA), where the defendants claimed they imported about 14,000 metric tonnes of petrol, the EFCC conducted an investigation, which revealed the contrary. "Contrary to the claim of the defendants as par Exhibit B, which they submitted to PPPRA to claim subsidy, the defendant imported only 4,850

metric tonnes of PMS (petrol) as opposed to 14,000 metric tonnes that he claimed to have imported," Bawa said. At the last sitting on February 23, 2021, Justice Balogun had admitted in evidence an email correspondence between Bawa and Ullrich Afini Awani of Global Commodities Africa as well as the certificate of identification. At the resumed sitting yesterday, Bawa, while being led in evidence by SK Atteh, further gave insights into the alleged fraudulent activities exposed by the investigation. He said: "The email correspondences were analysed and we found out that the defendant, contrary to their claim took about six million litres of PMS onboard MT St Vanessa

and the same quantity from the mother vessel, MT Eviridiki, into their own chartered vessel, MT St Vanessa. "The email further confirmed that the same quantity was discharged at Port Harcourt. "The email also showed that one Mr. Jide Ofor Akpan was the agent of the vessel i.e. MT St. Vanessa." He told the court that in furtherance of the investigation, Akpan was invited for questioning, and he confirmed that Nadabo Oil and Gas, through the second defendant, Ali Peters, chartered the vessel, MT St. Vanessa, and also paid for it. Bawa added that Akpan was confronted with the "purported shipping documents" that the defendant submitted to the

PPPRA for payment of subsidy. According to him,” he confirmed to us that the vessel, Vanessa, has nothing to do with MT American Express, which is the vessel which the defendant claimed to have given product to his own vessel, but that the St Vanessa loaded product from MT Eviridiki." Bawa said the EFCC wrote a letter of investigation activities to Petrocam, the traders which supplied the defendant the actual product that they imported, requesting that they furnish the commission with all the financial and shipping documents with respect to the transaction under investigation. Bawa who told the court that Petrocam responded, thereafter identified the letter from the

EFCC to Petrocam as well as the response received. When the prosecution sought to tender the documents as evidence, the defence team, led by EO Isiramen, objected to the admissibility of the documents, which included proforma invoice, commercial invoice, letter of credit and others relating to the transaction. The defence also raised objections to the admissibility of the response from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) with respect to the investigation of the company, which the prosecution also sought to tender against the defendant. After listening to both parties, Justice Balogun adjourned till April 28 and 29, 2021 for ruling and continuation of hearing.

Orji: Nigeria’s Proposed Ammonia Plant Will Crash Fertiliser Price Emma Okonji, Nosa Alekhuogie in Lagos and Alex Enumah in Abuja The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), Mr. Uche Orji, has said the planned establishment of an ammonia plant in Akwa Ibom State will crash the price of fertiliser. Ammonia is one of the raw materials for the production of fertiliser and it is produced from gas. Orji, who spoke yesterday on 'The Morning Show’ of ARISE NEWS Channel, the broadcast arm of THISDAY Newspapers, said Nigeria and Morocco recently signed agreements to supply Morocco with ammonia for the production of ammonia

sulphate fertiliser. The initiative, he said, would crash the cost of fertilisers in the country, adding that Nigeria has the capacity to turn waste gas into productive products like ammonia. Citing Dangote Group and other companies that are producing different blends of fertiliser in the country, Orji said if Nigeria had such fertiliser plants and ammonia producing plant in Nigeria, it would drive down the cost of the commodity. According to him, the agreement signed between Nigeria and Morocco remains a milestone and an accomplishment of the earlier agreement signed in 2018. “So, in 2018, Nigeria agreed to explore the agreement with Morocco and in 2021, we reached the final agreement to proceed

with the production of ammonia for export to Morocco. "We searched for a suitable site to establish a plant for the production of ammonia and we settled for Akwa Ibom State, having carried out feasibility studies in Rivers and Delta States. “We are hoping to start the construction of the plant in Akwa Ibom this year and it will take about two to three years to complete the construction of the plant, and after that, we will start producing and exporting ammonia products. The plan is to export 70 per cent of our total production and leave 30 per cent for domestic use,” Orji said. He attributed the siting of the production plant in Akwa Ibom State to some factors, including the states in Nigeria that produce gas, availability, and supply of gas

and the availability of the right location to establish the plant. He added that the availability of space for big vehicular movement to transport the product was also one of the factors considered. “We also considered the environmental factor because ammonia could cause devastating damage during spillover,” Orji added. He stated that the plant would be a multi-purpose industrial plant, with room to expand and produce different blends of fertiliser for different crops, adding that he is certain about the possibilities that Nigeria can accomplish through the initiative. Speaking about the expected challenges in establishing the ammonia plant, Orji said: “There are expected challenges in the

production of ammonia in Akwa Ibom, but we will address all expected challenges, especially community environmental challenges and construction challenges. But immediately we get the cooperation from Akwa Ibom community, we will be good to go.” Expressing the zeal of government to domesticate fertiliser production, Orji said in 2017, the NSIA was tasked with managing the fertiliser initiative, which has its own accomplishments in its own rights. According to him, that was the time the federal government wanted to domesticate the production of fertiliser blends in Nigeria, and to achieve that, the country had to buy raw materials like ammonium phosphate from Morocco and other raw materials

from other countries. “At that time, only four fertiliser blending plants were working in the country, and fertiliser was sold between N13,000 and N15,000 per bag, and the government was paying a subsidy for fertiliser. Last year, Nigeria had over 42 domestic fertiliser blending plants in operation, and the cost of fertiliser dropped to N5,500 per bag and later it was sold for N4,500 per bag. But the hike in the cost of raw materials has also increased the cost per bag of fertiliser to N5,000. “In the first year of implementation of the initiative to domesticate fertiliser blends in Nigeria, we had in excess of seven million bags of fertiliser in warehouses across Nigeria,” Orji said.

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PAGE EIGHT IRABOR TALKS TOUGH, ORDERS TROOPS TO SMOKE OUT UNREPENTANT BANDITS as giving the directive when he led the service chiefs and other military chiefs on a visit to Operation Hadarin Daji in Zamfara State. "He charged troops to be ruthless and more aggressive in decisively routing out unrepentant bandits and other criminals within the North-west zone, comprising Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto and Kebbi States," the statement said. It said the purpose of the visit was to assess the ongoing military operation in the state, and to appraise the combat and operational readiness of troops in the area. Irabor pledged the support of the service chiefs to enhancing the fighting capabilities and

efficiency of the troops. He also assured them of improved welfare and prompt resolution of administrative challenges bedevilling the operation. On arrival at the Force Headquarters (OPHD), Gusau, the CDS and the service chiefs were briefed on operational activities and achievements of the operation by the Force Commander, Maj. Gen. Aminu Bande. Irabor in his address to the troops commended the officers and men of OPHD for their concerted efforts and urged them not to relent in giving their best to ensure the return of lasting peace to Zamfara State in particular, and the North-west

zone in general. The CDS and service chiefs thereafter paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Zamfara State, Mr. Bello Mattawale, at the Government House, Gusau. While receiving the CDS, the governor made a case for the provision of more modern war hardware for the security agencies in the state. This, he said, would help contain the insecurity confronting not only Zamfara State but the country. The governor enjoined the military to clear all the bandits’ camps in the state, stressing that this will help in eliminating them. The CDS assured the governor and Nigerians of the

determination of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies, in dealing with criminal elements. Meanwhile, the combined troops of Sector 1 Operation Lafiya Dole and 402 Special Forces Brigade have killed 25 insurgents in Borno State. A statement by the Director of Army Public Relations, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Yerima, said following the directive of the army chief, troops have continued to clear all villages and enclaves hitherto inhabited by the Boko Haram Terrorists (BHTs) and their Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) around Chikun Gudu, Kerenoa axis and environs in the ongoing Phase II of Operation

"Turai Takaibango." It said the clearance onslaught was based on the directives given by Attahiru when he visited Operation Lafiya Dole. It added that during his operational visit to Dikwa, the COAS directed troops to recapture Marte and to clear other adjoining villages which include Chikun Gudu, Kerenoa and the environs. He said: "Following the directive, the gallant troops moved in, achieved the objective and projected ahead. In the course of the clearance operation, troops encountered heavy fleets of the terrorists, engaged and ultimately obliterated them. "In the encounter, 25 members of the terrorist group were

neutralised while the following weapons were captured, including two brawny machine gun, 20 AK 47 rifles and 5 FN rifles, 2 60mm mortar tube and two General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG). "Other weapons captured during the operation also include three anti-aircraft guns, two automatic grenade launchers, two gun trucks and one CJTF Hilux amongst others.: He said the COAS commended the gallant troops and charged them to maintain the momentum in order to ensure that the area is completely cleared and dominated. "He also instructed them not relent in their new offensive," he said

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the representatives of the UK and the federal government cannot supersede the constitution, which prohibits any form of discrimination. “In other words, by virtue of Section 42 of the constitution, the governments and people of Plateau, Bayelsa and Delta States are entitled to equal rights and opportunities. “Interestingly, some concerned citizens of Delta State have decided to join issues with the federal government, otherwise, another sum of $20 million, which will soon be recovered and repatriated from the confiscated fund will also be claimed by the federal government on very shaky legal grounds,” Falana said.

not be averse to allow justice and fair play to hold sway in this matter, more so, when those who are repatriating the funds have clearly stated the source of the funds. So, we are convinced that the federal government will listen to us," he said. Asked if the state government will go to court, the commissioner said: “We are taking it one step at a time. We are convinced that the federal government will see reasons with us. After all, the funds have not come in, but between now and when the funds will come in, the federal government will realise that development in Delta is also as important as development anywhere in the country. "But in this case, development in Delta has become much more important because the funds in question, unarguably, belongs to Delta and we do know that the federal government will want to be just to every component part of this federation and part of that justice is what we are asking for." Also speaking with THISDAY yesterday in Asaba, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Delta State Governor, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, said the state government did not expect the federal government to carry through its pledge to spend the cash on projects outside the state. Ifeajika stated that it would amount to injustice and impunity on the part of the federal

REPATRIATED £4.2M BELONGS TO DELTA, SAY HOUSE, FALANA, AZINGE However, THISDAY gathered that the state government is considering options on how to get back the money, recovered in the UK from the associates of a former governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, from the federal government when finally repatriated. The House at the plenary yesterday urged the Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning to stop further appropriation or disbursement of the recovered funds, pending the final determination of the matter by the House. It also requested the ministry and the Attorney-General of Federation to furnish it with all particulars relating to the recovered money. In addition, the House Committees on Finance, Justice, Loans and Recovered Funds are to investigate the matter and revert to the House within two weeks. The resolutions were sequel to the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance, sponsored by the House Minority Leader, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, and nine other lawmakers from Delta State. Moving the motion, Elumelu said the £4.2 million recovered from associates of Ibori was being transferred to the coffers of the federal government for appropriation without recourse to Delta State and or the parliament. He stated that the House is aware that the assets seized by the Economic and Financial Crimes

Commission (EFCC) from states were returned to such states and wondered why that of Delta is different. He added that the funds ought to be returned to the Delta State Government for the development of the state. Elumelu expressed concerns that if the federal government is allowed to appropriate the funds without recourse to the state, the people will be deprived of their legitimate resources to improve the economy of the state. According to him, the actual money is £6.2 million and the federal government should ensure that the total of £6.2 million is returned to the state. However, Azinge, a former Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) directorgeneral, faulted the federal government’s bid to appropriate the money, saying it should be returned to the state. "By the time the case was concluded, Ibori was no longer a governor, and all those monies linked to him are treated as proceeds of fraud. Consequently, such funds could not have emanated from any other part of Nigeria except Delta where he superintended and if for any reason the money had to be repatriated to Nigeria, common sense dictates that since it is considered to be money looted from the coffers of Delta State, automatically it should be returned back to them," he stated. According to him, the mere fact that the federal government

negotiated the return of the funds does not give it the right to appropriate it. He also decried the federal government’s decision not to spend the funds on any project within the state. He stated that the Second Niger Bridge, which is located between Asaba in Delta State and Onitsha in Anambra State, cannot be said to be a project for Delta State. "The fact that it is located in Asaba and Onitsha axis does not mean that it belongs to Asaba people or Delta State; it is open to everybody and you are now using Delta money to build a bridge that would benefit everybody. "I believe strongly that courtesy demands and federalism suggests that that money should be given to Delta State and Delta State would now be in a position to determine how it wants to use the money," he said. He recalled that in the case of the Paris Club refund all the states involved got their money directly and wondered how many of those states engaged directly with the Paris Club. He added that the issues involved in the Paris Club were those on the exclusive legislative list. “But when the money came, the federal government did not appropriate everything. They got theirs and all the other states all got their own. Nobody said all the money should go to the federal government and that the

federal government should utilise it on behalf of all the states in their respective states. The money went to all of them in their own respective states," Azinge stated. He urged the federal government to return the money to the state and monitor how it will be spent instead of appropriating it. Falana said the funds belong to Delta State and not the federal government. He faulted the federal government’s plan to use the money to construct the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, the Abuja-Kano railway, and other federal projects. Falana, in a statement, said: “The £4.2 million does not belong to the federal government. The money confiscated from Governor Joshua Dariye in the United Kingdom was recovered by the federal government, repatriated to Nigeria, and returned to the Plateau State government. “The money confiscated from Governor Diepreye Alamieyesiegha in the United Kingdom was recovered by the federal government, repatriated to Nigeria and remitted to the account of Bayelsa State government. “Since what is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander, the sum of £4.2 million confiscated from Governor James Ibori in the UK and recovered by the federal government has to be remitted to the account of the Delta State government.” Falana stated that the

State Govt Weighs Options Meanwhile, the Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, yesterday told THISDAY that the state government was weighing its options to ensure that the federal government treats the state fairly. “We believe that we have had a very cordial relationship with the President Muhammadu Buhari administration and to that extent, we are open to a fair and firm discussion with the federal government. “We are convinced that every form of reasonableness and justice and of course, equity is on our side. The federal government will

Continued on page 47

STAKEHOLDERS FORESEE GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES IN NSE’S DEMUTUALISATION the demutualisation of the NSE was one of his happiest moments. “The development is one of my happiest moments as the Chairman of ASHON, having along with other critical stakeholders delivered on the mandate to demutualise the exchange. Demutualisation will enhance the effective transformation of not only the NSE but also the entire securities ecosystem in particular,” Ezeagu stated. President, Chartered Institute Stockbrokers (CIS), Mr. Olatunde Amolegbe, also said the approval would herald a new vista in the growth trajectory of the NSE. “This is a process that already enjoys the support of all market stakeholders because of the immense benefits that we expect that it will bring to investors and the Nigerian economy at large. We expect increased innovation and growth among market participants,” Amolegbe added. The Executive Director, NOVA Merchant Bank, Ms. Funke Okoya, said the demutualisation of the NSE had birthed a new vista of opportunities for the capital market. According to her, the ownership structure should infuse greater efficiency and enhanced operational bandwidth, which will help to drive liquidity, expand its operations and deepen the market. “The NSE is undoubtedly a critical element in the Nigerian

capital market and plays a critical role in the development of the market. With our subsidiary as a broker/dealer on the NSE and of course a shareholder of the new NGX Group, I look forward to new offerings, efficiency gains and renewed service orientation from the leadership, with optimism that such would be complementary to the growth strategies of our securities trading subsidiary and other capital market operations, including asset management and investment banking,” Okoya said. A former Council Member of the NSE and Managing Director/ CEO of APT Securities and Funds Limited, Mallam Garba Kurfi, said the demutualisation would lead to greater investor participation in the governance of the exchange and unlock capital for stockbrokers who may decide to trade their shares for liquidity. “The demutualisation of the NSE would make the exchange to function better like its peers such as the Johannesburg Securities Exchange (JSE), Nairobi Securities Exchanges that have already undergone the process. It will bring global best practices. In all, it is a good thing and all of us are going to be happy at the end of the day because it is going to unlock more capital for the market. For instance, if I place shares as collateral, I can trade and make money, we are pleased this is coming after so much delay,” Kurfi said. Another stockbroker, Mr.

Samuel Oguntayo, said as a profit-making company, the exchange would be restructured to become more agile and improve on its innovativeness and capitalise on new income opportunities in order to create value for shareholders. “Apart from the fact that members who would be allotted their shares can trade these shares on over-the-counter (OTC) and make money, the benefits of the demutualisation will trickle down to ordinary Nigerians and every other participant in the market. Given the fact that the exchange will be restructured, there will be room for recruitment of new hands to man the new areas to be created. When it is a nonprofit-making organisation, there was little motivation to make more money. But now that it is going to be a profit-making organisation, it has to make sure more money is made so as to end up with profit to share among the shareholders,” he stated. Oguntayo added that the corporate governance principle governing other corporations will come into play in the running of the NSE and ensure transparency. “Besides, there will be more products and services in the market and this could be other streams of income for operators,” Oguntayo said. An investor and shareholder activist, Mr. Boniface Okezie of Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria said the

demutualisation would bring benefits to all stakeholders in the market. “It is going to be a healthy competition in the capital market because the platform will become a listed entity at some point. And so, as everyone among its staff will put in their best to make sure people who invest reap their fruits of their investment because they will now compete with those other companies also listed in on the platform. "Even foreign companies who want to do business here will take us serious going forward,” he said. According to him, the exchange will also become more businessoriented and as a private driven organisation interference from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for instance, will reduce. Earlier yesterday, the NSE had said with the approvals by the SEC and CAC, it could now activate its Transition Plan (TP) to a new operational structure and holding company. According to it, “The extensive TP, taking the group and its subsidiaries through to full operational launch, covers legal and practical changes to enable the functioning of the new corporate structure, with no loss of service and a seamless transition for market participants. “The TP will also see the inauguration of boards for each of the new entities, staff

reallocation to their respective functions within the operating subsidiaries, operationalisation of business plans and budgets, technology systems transfer, and the requisite arm’s length agreements between the entities.” NSE stated that upon operational launch, the group’s new brands, including a new website, will be unveiled, and the group will be in a position to execute its strategic vision. “Stakeholders, including our new valued shareholders will benefit from the group’s enhanced corporate governance framework, access to capital to fund strategic developments and more globally competitive exchange,” NSE added. It said the approvals would enable the shares of NGX Group Plc, which have been registered with the SEC, to be allotted to the membership pursuant to the court-approved scheme of arrangement. “Ahead of its listing on NGX Limited, the shares of NGX Group Plc will be available for bilateral trades to be executed in line with extant rules and regulations of the Nigerian capital market. Otunba Ogunbanjo will serve as the inaugural chairman of NGX Group Plc’s Board of Directors,” it stated. Demutualisation of the NSE has been seen as pivotal because it creates new strategic opportunities that will enable the group realise its vision of

becoming Africa’s leading capital market infrastructure provider. The creation of a holding company and a new capital structure will also enable NGX Group Plc to form new dynamic relationships, drive strategic partnerships and gain capitalraising flexibility. The NSE members approved at its last AGM the listing by the introduction of NGX Group Plc on NGX Limited.

TOP GAINERS NGN NGN MORISON 0.07 0.79 CHAMPBREW 0.18 2.20 NEIMETH 0.17 2.09 MBENEFITS 0.03 0.42 NAHCO 0.14 2.25 TOP LOSERS NGN CHI PLC 0.03 0.27 ETERNA 0.51 4.62 CONOIL 1.85 17.05 NNFM 0.55 5.15 LIVESTOCKFEEDS 0.18 1.70 HPE Nestle Nig Plc ₦1,375.00 Volume: 489.98 million shares Value: N6.65 billion Deals: 4,616 As at yesterday 10/3/2021 See details on Page 39

% 9.7 8.9 8.8 7.6 6.6 % 10 9.7 9.7 9.6 9.5

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COMMENT

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

COVID-19 AND RESEARCH IN AFRICA

Japan and Cuba provide lessons in research and development for Africa, writes Okello Oculi

n 1966 Professor Johan Galtung, a Norwegian peace researcher with academic doctorates in Physics, Mathematics and Sociology, toured Africa to argue that it was a grave error to accept the British Government’s measure of imposing economic embargo on British immigrants in Southern Rhodesia who had declared a plan to turn the country - for themselves and their descendants - into another Australia or New Zealand or Spanish colonies in South America. His tour of the country a year after Ian Smith and is political party had declared to be independent from British colonial rule ‘’without the permission of Her Majesty’s Government’’ was giving proof to his theory that economic sanctions deliver bitter pills which trigger genes of: determination to survive; heroic visions of a ‘’David defeating Goliath’’, and creativity to invent replacements for what were imported from other economies. When I intercepted him on a Kampala street he was feeling triumphant that the rebel Rhodesians were proving him right. By 1980 the Rhodesian bravado had collapsed and Robert Mugabe had trampled on Ian Smith’s boast that his breed would rule over Blacks for one thousand years. Johan Galtung’s theory had already flourished in Japan where a self-imposed form of embargo fuelled national development. In the field of education Japan started a policy of shutting out books and journals written in foreign languages. Publications which were most highly rated in Medicine, Agronomy, Economics, Engineering, Literature, Mathematics, etc., would be translated into Japanese language. They also borrowed the German model of conducting research and delivering lectures in universities in VERNACULAR, namely switching from Latin to German language. This policy had been preceded by sending brilliant students to top level universities in Germany, France, Britain, Spain and the United States. They translated publications into Japanese. In the field of industrial production, imported capital and consumer goods were taken to pieces and fabricated by Japanese workers. Research became combative horns of Cuba. From 1961 when Fidel Castro and his revolutionary fighters declared ownership by Cuba’s government of vast sugar plantations, sugar processing factories, banks and ancillary businesses, successive American governments imposed economic embargoes on the island. The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) would later under pressure by a committee of Congress that try as hard as they did, they had failed to deepen the embargo by assassinating Fidel Castro. The drive to starve Cuba into abandoning communist economics, society and politics fuelled the resolve to be so

COVID-19 VACCINE NEEDS HAVE EXPOSED AFRICA’S SHAME AS POOR BEGGARS. JAPAN’S FOOTPRINTS AND CUBA’S MODEL SHOULD FUEL AFRICA’S ENTHUSIASM FOR LOCAL PRODUCTION OF VACCINES BY FOCUSING ON HIGH QUALITY EDUCATION AND RESEARCH IN AFRICAN LANGUAGES.

creative and inventive that they would bypass all measures which used American technology. In the area of health they eliminated malaria by eliminating mosquitoes by denying them stagnant water in pools, grass, broken pots where to breed. American medicines were made redundant. This strategy relied on brilliant minds being invested in research. They would ask daring questions and chase daring roads into search of new knowledge. Cuba’s tropical vegetation (plants and fungi), mushrooms, insects, reptiles, insects, resources in and under the sea became frontiers to explored for medical, chemical and industrial products. Earning money and making profit was replaced with serving a need as the principle for delivering the impact of a medical skill. Accordingly the best surgeon would operate on a peasant at the demand of the ideological dictate of the Cuban state. Hugo Chavez as president of Venezuela would fly in patients from other South American countries for high quality medical treatment in Cuba and pay with barrels of oil for Cuba. The combination of unconventional creativity with the ideological priority on delivering service to all human beings was a threat to practices by the American Medical community. Cheap drugs invented and manufactured by Cuba and cheap medical skills used in treating patients would become a magnet to American middle classes who can afford to travel across the 90 kilometres which separate Cuba from Florida. Medical tourism would flood patients into Cuba while denying market to money-guzzling American personnel. The market for medicines in South America, Africa and Asia would also be captured by Cuba’s cheap medicines. Multinationals in the pharmaceutical sector would also lose out. Cuba’s high achievements in research became an economic threat to profit-based healthcare systems. On January 3rd, 2021, CNN’s Amanpour interviewed a female American scientist who is opening the American market to Cuban medical products. She reported on Cuba’s researchers curing Lung Cancer by blocking access to a protein in a patient’s body. Cuba’s researchers are also inventing four vaccines for combating COVID-19; while her medical personnel are in Italy and South Africa to combat high death rates from COVID-19. Covid-19 vaccine needs have exposed Africa’s shame as poor beggars. Japan’s footprints and Cuba’s model should fuel Africa’s enthusiasm for local production of vaccines by focusing on high quality education and research in African Languages.

WILL AFRICA CLAIM THE 21ST CENTURY?

Francis E. Ogbimi argues that Africa will only claim the century if the continent mobilises its citizens for learning and industrialisation

an Africa Claim the 21st Century? is the report of a study carried out by the World Bank and released in May 2000. The report found out that Africa’s total GDP income, per capita output at the end of the 20th century was lower than it was 30 years earlier in the 1970s. The number of poor people had grown relentlessly. The Bank noted in the report that the retrogression had to do with growing income inequality, uneven access to resources, social exclusion and insecurity. The Bank also noted that the growing poverty in Africa is reflected in health and education parameters. In many nations in Africa the report found out that 200 out of every 1000 children died before the age of five. More than 250 million of the continent’s 600 million had no access to safe water and 200 million did not have access to basic health services. I do not agree with the position of the World Bank as to the cause of stagnation and retrogression in Africa. Africa’s planning has always been influenced by the World Bank and other economists who do not understand the human development process. African nations started with National Development Plans just after independence. Nigeria for example implemented four National Development Plans in the period 1962 – 1985. The World Bank and IMF then introduced to African nations the African Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAPs) in the early 1980s. African nations including Nigeria are still implementing the SAPs. I have analyzed the Nigerian National Plans and the SAPs in a book entitled, “Understanding Why Privatisation Is Promoting Unemployment and Poverty and Delaying Industrialisation in Africa, F. E. Ogbimi (2007),” and showed that the National Plans and SAPs lacked

growth-promoting elements. They contain daydreaming-objects with no corresponding activities to achieve them. The National Plans and SAPs were based on the fallacious claim that ‘once capital is invested growth ensues.’ Our research revealed that all the industrialized nations of today had agricultural economies and were confronted by mass unemployment, poverty and insecurity problems for many centuries. The problems disappeared when the nations achieved the modern industrial revolution. We therefore theorized that industrialization is the true solution to unemployment, poverty and insecurity. Hence any nation working to eliminate unemployment, poverty and insecurity problems must put industrialization as priority objective. Indeed, the World Bank in its World Development Report (!998), stated that technological knowledge means know-how; those countries which possess less of it are caught in the poverty bracket. Poor countries, the bank continued, and indeed poor people are not able to compete in the global system not because they do not have capital, or other material resources, but because they have less knowledge. True, the difference between the agricultural-economies in Africa on the one hand and the technologically advanced economies in Europe, America and Asia on the other hand, is a matter of difference in the level of knowledge, skills and competences (KSCs) possessed and applied by the citizens. History shows that the wealthy nations learnt laissez-faire (very slowly) over many centuries, accumulated knowledge, skills and competences and achieve the modern industrial revolution (IR). All the good things in Europe, America and Asia today – high productivity and productive agriculture; good, adequate and reliable infrastructure; high standard of living;

etc., are fruits of the IR. The process through which an agricultural economy is converted into an industrialized one is scientific. Economists including those in the World Bank, other social sciences, accountants, bankers, lawyers, others, do not understand it hence they cannot plan for African nations to achieve industrialization. In the address to the nation by President Muhammadu Buhari on the EndSARS Protests, 22ND October, 2020, item 12 of the address read: Government has put in place measures and initiatives principally targeted at youths, women and the most vulnerable groups in our society. These include our broad plan to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in the next 10 years; the creation of 75 billion National Youth Investment Fund to provide opportunities for the youths and the Micro, Small and Medium (MSME) Survival Fund, through which government is: a) paying three months salaries of staff of 100,000 micro, small – and medium enterprises, b) paying for the registration of 250, 000 businesses at the Corporate Affairs Commission, c) giving a grant of N30,000 to 300,000 artisans; and d) guaranteeing market for the products of traders. The 13th item of the address added: These are in addition to many other initiatives such as: a) Farmermoni, b)Tradermoni, c) Marketmoni, d) N-power, e) N-Tech and f) N-Agro. These activities which President Buhari boasts about are at best tokenism with respect to promoting industrialization and solving poverty and insecurity problems. Our research revealed that learning (education, training, employment and research) is the primary source of Sustainable Economic Growth and Industrialization (SEGI). The history of the economic, social and political statuses of mankind is that of his learning. All human beings are born as crying-babies. The baby soon

begins to babble (to learn how to talk) and later talks. The baby who could not babble grows up to be a dumb adult. Just as the baby acquires the capabilities to talk through learning, so s/he acquires every other capability through learning. If a society possesses the capabilities to manufacture many scientific products, the people must have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills and capabilities. The intrinsic values of the learning-people appreciate with time and learning intensity. Hence the progress of the learning-people was modeled by an increasing function. Scaling of our model yielded an equation we described as the MOBILIZATION equation, because it suggested that a nation may mobilize her citizens and achieve industrialization in a few decades. The equation also suggested that the technological growth of a nation may by measured by five learning-related variables. They are: one, the number of people employed in the economy, N; two, the average level of education and training of the workforce, M; three, the linkages among the various knowledge and skills, L; four, the learning rate or intensity, r; and five, the experience of the workforce – the effective time the people have been learning and accumulated knowledge, skills and competences, n. All the variables are directly related to the sustainable economic growth achievable as the citizens of a nation learn. These are the variables a nation aspiring to become industrialized should measure, not GDP growth. Africa will not claim the 21st century if the continent still prefers to throw money at all problems. Yes, Africa will claim the 21st century, if the continent mobilizes all its citizens for learning and industrialization like Japan did 1886-1905 and China did 1949-now. fogbimi@yahoo.com

T H I S D AY • THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

EDITORIAL FROM DEPRESSION TO SUICIDES There is an urgent need for an awareness campaign on where those suffering from depression could seek help

n what is fast becoming a recurring incidence, a promising young man was recently declared missing with the social media abuzz about his possible whereabouts. A few hours later, it was discovered that he had actually taken his own life. In the suicide note left behind, he wrote: “I have battled with depression for seven years, and now that battle is over. l couldn’t continue to live the way l did and make the same bad choices again. The noise got too loud but now the noise can stop again.” And then he added: “Like l have always said, ‘life is like a party, when you stop having fun, leave’. So it had to be today, a week after my birthday. Please pray for my soul. Pray that l ﬁnally ﬁnd peace and rest. It’s all I ever wanted.” That cases of suicide have moved from an occasional blip to a very disturbing trend in our country is no longer in doubt. And it is not restricted to any demographic group. While that should worry the authorities and critical stakeholders, there are many theories as to why some Nigerians now take their own lives with untreated depression as the most common factor. Medical practitioTHE PLIGHT OF THE ners under the aegis UNDER-PRIVILEGED IS STEADILY WORSENING AS of the Society of Family Physicians of MANY GO TO BED WITH Nigeria, (SOFPON) LESS THAN A SURVIVAL have been raising DIET concerns about the growing number of Nigerians living with depression, a major risk factor for suicide. To compound the challenge, most of the people suffering from depression in Nigeria don’t even know where to go which is why SOFPON recommends that medical practitioners who see various cases of ailment at the Primary Health Centres be trained on how to identify the symptoms. But there is also an urgent need for an awareness campaign on how and where those who suffer from depression could seek help. While the authorities must begin to deal with

Letters to the Editor

this growing health emergency, there are also other reasons why people take their own lives and devastate members of their family and friends with shock. For instance, underlying mental disorders such as schizophrenia, excessive alcoholism, drug abusive play signiﬁcant role in triggering suicidal thoughts are cases in point. Schizophrenia is a disease with a wide range of weird symptoms like hallucinations, inner voices, disordered thinking and irrational fears and “emotions that seem out of tune with reality”.

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

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

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.

A Matter Of Life And Death Continued from back page

n a lighter note, my flight to Ilorin yesterday was largely uneventful until we experienced turbulence as we approached the city. Subconsciously, I began to sing a hymn, ‘Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, Sing His mercy and His grace; In the mansions bright and blessed, He’ll prepare for us a place.’ It was when I got to the chorus of that famous Eliza Edmunds Hewitt hymn, ‘When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be…’ that I suddenly realized the implication. As Peter Tosh once sang, we all want to go to heaven but nobody wants to die!

Perhaps it is incessant media coverage and having to deal with a global pandemic that has led to a situation in which many of us now reflect on the fragility of life. Dan Cable and Francesca Gino explain it better in ‘Coping with ‘Death Awareness’ in the COVID-19 Era’, where they argue that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought many of us not only to the awareness of our impermanence but also that we are vulnerable—a fact that we push out of our minds in less threatening times. But they also see a positive. When we can manage to reflect on death without succumbing to anxiety about it, the duo contend, “we

oday, the use of hard drugs like Indian hemp, cocaine and even methamphetamine are commonplace in the society. Indeed, drug abuse has become very prevalent across the country today and it is a social problem in many of the northern states. But it would appear that neither the society nor the critical agencies of government are paying attention to this malaise that also aid the feeling of emptiness that often leads to suicide. However, given the socio-economic situation in the country, it is also obvious that many citizens are reaching their breaking points with the conclusion that they are better off dead. It is such situation of hopelessness that may account for the growing rise of suicide. There is enormous emotional and ﬁnancial stress as well as pervading poverty and hopelessness everywhere. The plight of the underprivileged is steadily worsening as many go to bed with less than a survival diet. The unemployment crisis has created a lost generation of graduates who cannot ﬁnd jobs. Yet it is an established fact that impoverished individuals are a major risk group for depression. And depression, according to experts, is the most common reason why people commit suicide. There is therefore an urgent need for both the government and society to pay attention to medical challenges and socio-economic constraints that could trigger in people the urge to take their own lives.

are likely to make choices that help us make our best contributions and improve the world rather than hunkering down or lashing out.” In the uncertain times in which we live, leadership is being redefined in many countries. But there are also conversations about responsible and responsive citizenship. Since we live in a society that downplays tragedies and hardly learn lessons from experience, Nigerians are looking at numbers and comparing Covid-19 victims with those who have been killed by Boko Haram, bandits and sundry criminal cartels that operate freely across the country. And with that, we miss the consciousness of our mortality that is teaching others to course correct and take both personal and corporate responsibility for the good of their society. Sadly, COVID-19 may have brought awareness of the certainty of death and our mortality. But many societies have used that awareness as a pathway to clarify purpose and advance public good. This has not happened in Nigeria. Perhaps because we do not have many curious leaders (at critical levels) who are willing to ask the right questions and make the tough calls, we have not benefited from the experience of the past one year. Neither has our society. It is now time for that to happen at the personal, group and leadership levels. Hopefully any benefit we stand to gain amid the pains of the COVID-19 pandemic are not lost on us.

Olusegun Adeniyi, Abuja

Who Wasn’t Watching Tv?

ne of the more interesting outcomes from the “Interview of the Decade” with Oprah was how few people are watching TV. The Interview clearly won its time slot but with about two million out of 26 million in Australia (7%), 17 million out of 333 million in America (5%) and a high of 11 million out of 67 million in the UK (17%) the ratings really weren’t “Huge” or “Massive” as reported but simply the best at the time and probably one of the best for the year.

This suggests that few people are watching TV at all and there may be more appropriate media to get your message out to the adoring public. Has TV reached the end of its popularity run as people seem to have deserted it as they have from newspapers? TV shows the pictures and the story in their news broadcast although rarely in detail whereas newspapers usually rely more on details than pictures. Have they all been passed by YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and if so, then be prepared for the level of news accuracy where Elvis is still alive, the moon landings were faked, and the election results were not valid? Please start watching more TV to get the headlines and then newspapers to get the accurate details.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

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T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021

POLITICS

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

‘It Took Four Years to Etch my Name on Good Governance in Anambra State’

David-Chyddy Eleke was among a group of journalists who recently interviewed Hon. Chris Azubogu, House of Representatives member representing Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency after he indicated interest to run for the Anambra State governorship position to executives of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state

contributed immensely, ask anybody in that government, I contributed immensely to the success of that government, and advanced more; operated and worked with the federal government though from the state but I have participated. I have been involved in core public policy decision and I am telling us that Anambra State is yearning for someone that has the right, requisite and relevant experience in governance. As a parliamentarian I have participated and voted for local government autonomy. As a reformist, I worked to reform local government system. I have evidence here. I have those who are witnesses to what I did in local government. I am a very courageous person. So, if I tell you that I will conduct election in six months, it is guaranteed because that is the only way. If I conduct local government election, I will have 326 councillors, 21 council chairmen, supervisory councilors, and all of them will come from members of our party. If I do that then our party is in government. I have a blueprint that will put PDP in government for 24 years unbroken. The reason is that I have the same winning streak. I have the special grace of God. I have run elections three times and have won all of them. I have never failed any of them. I don’t think I will fail this one. We have a clear roadmap. It is not easy to win elections in Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo.

y take on the forthcoming governorship election and PDP’s quest to take power in Anambra Election is a process and not an event. It will culminate on that day, 6th November and it is a great journey for our party. Having been out of power in Anambra State for close to 16 years, PDP has a date with history in 2021; a date PDP will begin again to showcase leadership, to bring development, growth and inclusive governance. I pledge that despite everything, I will work assiduously, like I have done before, to ensure that the PDP wins this election. I’m running for the position too My intention to present myself to be the flag bearer of the PDP is a thing that I have duly considered, prayerfully. I have looked at it. It is not going to be an easy journey. The ticket of the PDP is a good ticket, and I can tell you that anybody that will take it on behalf of our party and carry all of us along will win this election. He must be ready to show Anambra people what it takes to be a leader and what it takes to win an election. For our party, we are grossly disadvantaged in this election. I don’t want to dabble into it but if you know the extent of battle we are going to get into, we will get prepared for that battle. We are in a democracy. I am a lawmaker. They must make a choice. But the PDP remains a better choice for Anambra State. Any threat to PDP’s quest for the governorship position? As at today, the APC which is the party at the centre, you know very well that they have indicated strong interest to come and contest election in Anambra State. For your information or to remind us, in the last governorship election in Anambra State, our party did not come second. APGA won election; APC came second and we came third. And you know that the party in the state, no matter how you look at it, they look so weak now because they are not doing well but you cannot totally ignore them because they have structures on ground. And I want to be open as a true party man. I lived 17 years in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. I was a PDP person until I returned to Anambra State in 2007. I can assure you that when I came to Anambra State, I came because of what I had done with the government in Rivers State; the experiences I had garnered professionally serving the government of Rivers State under Dr Peter Odili. Those solutions I proffered there were what brought me to Anambra State as my dear state to help and contribute to the success of the government. That’s how I came. I went to the University of Nigeria to study Efm8ngineering. When I used to go to school, Nsukka Park at Upper Iweka, I always entered vehicles there, drive behind GRA Onitsha through Otuocha, Anaku, Omor, you get to Adani and from there you cross over until you get to Mkpologu and then Nsukka. But today, it is almost impossible to use that road. Who I am I am an entrepreneur. After school, I looked around, and being an engineer, I saw that technological innovation was the trend, I swiftly entered into telecommunication, learnt the ropes; went for further training. I had extensive training in ICT. In Anambra, my company was contracted to handle biometric verification for workers in the state. That was what I did for Rivers State. I did it in Anambra and removed several ghost workers in the system. From primary school board, I was told to do the same thing for health management board, even the moribund water corporation. By the time I finished, I was handed over state pension board. By the time I finished all my work within six months, they clearly saw that I was saving well over N100 million every month in salaries and wages. Facts are

Azubogu sacred. Those that were in government are still alive ranging from Chief Muotolu who was the Chairman, Local Government Service Commission; Commissioner for Local Government, Dubem Obaze; Commissioner for Finance, Eze Echesi; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, and a host of others, even the state Head of Service, Mrs Meluifeonwu. They were all people that participated in that government that we worked in. It took me four years from 2007 to 2011 to etch my name in the annals of history in the governance of Anambra State; knowing every nook and cranny, working with the state government, adding value because as a scientist I bring result. I believe in efficiency and productivity. I got engaged with His Excellency, Late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu who insisted that I should participate in the political process. First, I was offered local government Chairman, but I declined. I told them that it wasn’t right for me. But suddenly, when time for general election came, I was asked to contest for House

of Representatives. I asked questions. Having had the privilege of working for the National Assembly as a consultant before, I told them that I know the terrain and I can do well. I consulted the stakeholders in Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo everywhere they were including Lagos and Abuja. After doing that, by the special grace of God, the primary was made easy by the trio of Chief Ojukwu, Peter Obi, and Dame Virgy Etiaba, who all supported me along with all the eminent people of Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo. And my colleagues in the government then, I had a tremendous support from them: Ude Nwafor Ude, Eze Echesi, Chike Obuekwe, Owelle Azuka and others. They were very supportive. The experience I am bringing to Anambra governorship I have spent a cumulative of 14 years in proper art of governance, leaving my professional background. It took diligence to study this. I worked under Peter Obi for four years,

We are in COVID-19 era. Post COVID economy is something that you cannot predict. We need someone who understands what it means to govern; who will drive us to begin to do the right things. We will not look up to Nigeria. We are not going to look up to Nigeria. Anambra State can treat herself as a country. As a governor, there are inherent powers that are there for a governor. Most people want to govern without knowing the powers of a governor. Go and look at the concurrent list. Every time we are shouting about restructuring. The one that is to our advantage what have we done with it? Any governor that knows what he can do can do something on health, education, agriculture, industry, environment. There are core areas that you don’t require the federal government. They cannot stop you from developing a clear policy programme and driving it.

The difference I will make in government We have a clear blueprint to develop the state’s infrastructure; from physical infrastructure, oil utilities, power and everything that you’ll put in place that will make money to come into the state. I want to warn us again, coming to govern Anambra State is not an easy thing. People will tell you semantics about what they will do. It is not about what you will do. How do you intend to do those things? I have clear knowledge on how to govern; how to raise money to finance projects. At Harvard where I went to study Public Policy and Governance, I had 12 World Bank staff who where my colleagues. I can do projects worth N100 billion with only N20 billion and have seven years moratorium. These are core experience I have; core competence, relevant and requisite skills about governance. It is not about going to Abuja to collect allocation. Very soon, revenue may not be coming from Abuja. Oil is not a business anymore. We are in COVID-19 era. Post COVID economy is something that you cannot predict. We need someone who understands what it means to govern; who will drive us to begin to do the right things. We will not look up to Nigeria. We are not going to look up to Nigeria. Anambra State can treat herself as a country. As a governor, there are inherent powers that are there for a governor. Most people want to govern without knowing the powers of a governor. Go and look at the concurrent list. Every time we are shouting about restructuring. The one that is to our advantage what have we done with it? Any governor that knows what he can do can do something on health, education, agriculture, industry, environment. There are core areas that you don’t require the federal government. They cannot stop you from developing a clear policy programme and driving it. Resources for the contest Many do not know that I have the resources to make all the noise other people make, but I choose to be silent. The resources to prosecute this election is not my problem. Go to every local government in Anambra State, there is none that does not have a Chris Azubogu imprint. I have projects scattered everywhere. Do not look down on me because I am simple. I have the contacts, I have the money. About seven Nigerian governors are backing my governorship project, so the resources is not the problem. It is about our party accepting to give the ticket to a candidate that can win the election.

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021

POLITICS

‘Buhari is One President We’ve DISSENTING VOICE...IN HIS OWN WORDS Heard No Scandal About’ Is the Coast Clear for APC

in Rivers State?

In this interview with Adedayo Akinwale, a chairmanship aspirant and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Mr. Iliyasu Abdul, reveals Chukwudi Dimkpa, an engineer and stakeholder why is putting himself forward for the number one in the Rivers Chapter of the All Progressives Congress commends the Supreme Court for position in the party way a party can bring in new members, after all we are not cultists. The party is open. It is like an association of likeminded people. So those party leaders saying it is not good, I wouldn’t say they have their own agenda, maybe it is the way they see it. But, to me, the party is supposed to welcome everybody. Anybody that knocks on your door you are supposed to welcome him, because the essence of a political party is for you to get the best so that you can give good governance And, people must come in for you to do that.

Abdul

hy are you a member of APC? My name is Malik Iliyasu Abdul. My father was a policeman and we lived outside our environment, outside our comfort zone. So, we grew up to know Nigeria without any ethnic or religious colouration. We just believe in your capacity and your ability that determines who you are and that was how we grew up. But, today, division sets in. so, when the issue of change came up, we thought yes!, Nigeria needs to change. And, the vehicle we took to achieve that change is the All Progressives Congress (APC). Because it is a progressive party that accommodates every other person. Will you say people are enjoying the APC government today? Yes, Nigeria is a dynamic country. And, that is why we have over 200 million people. Everybody will not agree that everybody is enjoying APC. But, in all sincerity, the majority of Nigerians will agree with me that as far as this APC government is concerned, it has done excellently well. How do you think APC has performed since inception till date? APC has fared very well. If you look at the interventions, the APC government has done right from 2015, in terms of monetary value through social development and interventions programmes, they have spent up to N3 trillion. It has never been done before in the history of this country. It is a deliberate policy of the APC government that brought all these. And you can see. The N-power, survival funds and this is a party policy to help the citizens overcome challenges. Everyone knows what COVID-19 caused. The whole world was shut down. But because of the intervention of APC, many people are still surviving and doing very well than other countries. So, APC is going stronger and stronger and we still have room for improvement because that is not the end of it. That is why we are trying to come out so that we can improve it better because we are entrepreneurs. We have been in the business and we know how to grow an organisation for better performance. Some say the ongoing party revalidation is against the party constitution People have their own idea. But a political party is supposed to accommodate everybody. And, I think it is a very good idea for revalidation and welcoming of new members, because that is the only

Do you share the view of the Minister of Interior that APC is admitting killers into the party? A political party as I earlier said composes of all sorts of people. Armed robbers can be there because they are human beings. But, as far as the court has not convicted them, because if the court has, the party may say no. But the bottom line is that a political party is a collection of people that come together. So, I don’t know what you are into. But when the time comes, we will scrutinise you. Because before you are anything in the party you must be scrutinised. That is why we are coming in to change a lot of things. That issue of money politics will go. It will change a lot of things. The party goes back to the people, to the grassroot, to the polling units. Why do you think your party has been suffering leadership problems? From Oyegun, to Oshiomhole APC was recently formed. A merger of different sets of people with different political views. Definitely you should have those kind of skirmishes. Even your tongue and teeth do have issues at times. It is a normal thing. As time goes on, this too will be resolved. And, there will be peace in the party. And, you know with the commander in chief with what he is doing, he gives everybody his time. He is not intervening. He likes the party to grow by itself. He wants it to grow very well. sincerely, that is what we call teething problems. It will solve itself one day. What kind of leader do you expect the party to elect when it goes for its convention in the next four months? Well, we need a dynamic leader. A focus leader. A God Fearing leader who will be fair to every member of the party. And, a young vibrant leader who can move and have ideas to move the party to the next level because if the president who is the national leader leaves power, we should think ahead what will happen to the party because now, the party is with Buhari as the leader who is there and will people respect him? Even because of his presence many things cannot be done. But, if he leaves, what happens? That is why we need a dynamic and vibrant youthful person to lead this party. Will you want the party to zone the offices? Because a Southern person just left as chairman of the party. Definitely, the party will zone its offices because as you are aware, there is an unwritten rule for rotation though not in the constitution . The South does eight years and the North does eight years. So, you cannot discard that. If the presidency goes to the south certainly the party chairmanship comes from the north. NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

delivering a judgment that supposedly brings a closure to the protracted litigation by diﬀerent groups and individuals seeking control of the party

he recent Supreme Court judgement that brought to finality the protracted, ill-intentioned, needless and sponsored affray within the ranks of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State can be said to be the much needed stimulant for liberation of the state to unleash her true greatness. Even if it is for the APC to put the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on its toe by playing its role as a vibrant opposition, there is no better time than now to have a robust and non-combative presence for the APC in Rivers State. More than ever, the APC in Rivers State needs to bury the hatcthet of bitterness, mudslinging and senseless rivalry in order to position itself as a credible alternative for good governance. Every well meaning resident and stakeholde should be concerned about how the party will take over the state in the upcoming elections. As a critical stakeholder, I, Chukwudi Dimkpa, commend the courage of the Supreme Court in doing justice to the various sponsored suits that sought to entangle the party in endless litigation and by effect thwart the aspiration of Rivers people. The APC is not just for a virile opposition in the state but for a political platform for delivery of good governance. The return of an unhindered APC in Rivers is most commendable. The age long aphorism that everyday may exist for the thief but one day would be for the owner played out eventually as the almost endless daily battles instigated by external forces for the APC have now been effectively and permanently neutralised. Thus, paving the way for the rejuvenation of our great Party to meet the yearnings of Rivers people for better, robust, more inclusive, empathetic and forward-looking governance beyond the grandstanding delusion of short-lived brick and mortar myopia. To this end, may I commend the steadfastness of all members of our party, the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State, who stayed true to their commitments to the party and its leader, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, Nigeria’s performing Minister of Transportation, throughout the trying moments of the party. This victory is particularly dedicated to you. May God

Dimkpa

bless you. To other stakeholders, especially the friends of the party across all political divides and nonpolitical quarters, who prayed and hoped that a day like this would come in which Rivers State would have an opportunity to have a credible alternative political platform, I tell you the truth, the coast is now clear and the party now stands ready to welcome you all into its enlarging fold. For far too long, the derailment of good governance of our dear Rivers State, the capture of state resources, the impoverishment of our people have gone on unabated on account of the state-sponsorship of crisis within the APC, leading ultimately to the loss of creative opportunities for the growth of the state endured while peace loving and right thinking people sought legal means of ending the nightmare. Thankfully, all that has come to an end on account of the well-reasoned judgment of the Supreme Court. The gates are now wide open and the invitation is now extended to all and sundry desiring the best for Rivers State to come in and join hands with APC as its members work on liberating Rivers State from the stranglehold of its current captor and begin the journey of unleashing refreshing waves of opportunities and progress for the people without discrimation of whatever kind.

To this end, may I commend the steadfastness of all members of our party, the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State, who stayed true to their commitments to the party and its leader, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, Nigeria’s performing Minister of Transportation, throughout the trying moments of the party. This victory is particularly dedicated to you. May God bless you. To other stakeholders, especially the friends of the party across all political divides and nonpolitical quarters, who prayed and hoped that a day like this would come in which Rivers State would have an opportunity to have a credible alternative political platform, I tell you the truth, the coast is now clear and the party now stands ready to welcome you all into its enlarging fold

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

Purpose Driven Governance and Leadership: Paradigm Shift Becomes Imperative Seye Adetunmbi

ow benevolent, productive, relevant, and resourceful a government and an administration will be is a function of the purpose of the leadership. The mindset of a leader defines the kind of leadership that will be provided irrespective of the tier of government that is involved. This principle applies to the management of activities in the private sector too. The real leadership is not just a role one plays, it is a life one leads and this can only be built on a good and strong character to deliver an enduring good government to the masses. Good leadership in the governance of nations and states is the bedrock for development. The old western region of Nigeria remains an evergreen example in our clime. Consequently, it is imperative to consciously groom good leadership for future; a visionary leadership characterized by values and commitment to the custom of excellence. There is need to depart from rat race governing system and entrench a new paradigm for a more enduring purposeful governance for the benefit of the majority on a lasting note. The prevalent purpose of those who dominate the political space in Nigeria over the years had been less than altruistic. Many are involved for the winner to take all, the interest of the larger society is of no importance to them for as long as they are settled. “Bamu-bamu ni mo yo”. Once the foundation is bad, deceptive and structured to serve a narrow sect, the poor masses will be short-changed in perpetuity. For as long as Nigeria operates a questionable constitution it will take a sincere leadership with conscience at all tiers of government to deliver optimal benefits of democracy to the masses and make progress considerably as a nation or as a state. Calling for a paradigm shift in the way party flag bearers emerge and how we are governed would involve a lot of commitment. The vision is to make Ekiti for an example the model state in the manner Chief Obafemi Awolowo and his team made old western region to standout in Nigeria. The targeted fresh perspective will associate with the successes of the remarkable past and present leaders or heroes. In essence, every good deed of the past and present administrations will be improved upon while those aspects that do not align with the new paradigm will be jettisoned. Past mistakes will be consciously avoided. It would amount to self deceit/grandiose for any governor and the president in Nigeria today to say there is no room for improvement in the way our people have been governed and that there is no alternative to the status quo. Even after intervention by the paradigm shift movement, there will still be room for an improvement because we are dealing with the vagaries associated with humanity. What is fundamental is a sustainable leadership structure that will ensure manifestation of the desirable purposeful governance for the benefit of all, on a lasting note. Just as the federal government of Nigeria needs a fundamental policy reset to durably exit economic crises and warped system, the state governments need to get real and rejig the way politics are played. The advocacy is to explore tested new plausible ways for governing our people. We cannot continue to do the same thing repeatedly and expect a different result. Recycling people with the status quo mindset in government will continue to set us back. Whoever truly means well for the people will associate with the Paradigm Shift Movement (PSM). It is worth giving fresh vista of opportunities a chance under a disciplined, more dynamic and honest leadership. Ekitipanupo Indigenous Intellectual

Adetunmbi

Roundtable was initiated for the best brains of Ekiti indigenes irrespective of their location, to be deployed optimally for the benefit of the state and Ekiti people. It was structured to think ahead and have intellectual input to the manifestos of the ruling political party. This for instance informed the blue print that was presented to Ekiti State government in December 2010. Over the years, I have been called upon privately and publicly to run for the office of Governor in Ekiti-State by some well meaning indigenes. On a number of occasions, a few non-Ekiti associates who have been following my modest socio-political progressive activities all these years on Ekiti also prompted me along this line. My response had always been that I have at various times supported political aspirations of a number of people and stood by those who have governed Ekiti-State personally and through Ekitipanupo Forum. Let me see them through first. A good turn is expected to deserve another and wisdom demands that I should heed the call at the opportune time. In that, if it is not God’s time, you cannot force it; but when it is God’s time, you cannot stop it. To some of my people, it is long overdue. I cannot see a better time than now for me to make myself more available to the service of Ekiti-State. It is an apt response to a collective call to duty. With all humility, by the grace of God I will be available in 2022 and leave the electorate to decide. In the words of Abraham Lincoln, “no man is good enough to govern another without the man's consent.” What I am humbly making myself available for is to unleash the potential, the imponderable goodwill, wide network and huge intellectual capacity of over 1,000 tested professionals in all works of

life who constitute Ekitipanupo Forum. No political party parades the caliber of brilliant technocrats in Ekitipanupo Forum. In essence, the forum which is a microcosm of Ekiti-State will be put into optimal use to complement the government of the day with vast and tested integrated intellectual inputs. Ekitipanupo has capacity to provide advisory and consultancy service to EkitiState pro bono in virtually all sectors of the economy. I was involved in the Lagos Smart City Project sponsored by IBM in 2013, as a consultant through PYXERA Group. Indigenes shall be given top priority on professional services that they can provide at competitive rates. Part of the PSM is to challenge every political party to allow a level playing ground for party flag bearers to emerge by playing down too much influence of money which often throws up the highest bidder. The implication of a corrupted process relegates to the background, competence, antecedents, relevant experience, character audit and verifiable inclination to the best practices; which tends to deprive the masses of good quality government. Because when the loyalty of a governor is first to the political godfather, then larger interest of the majority is secondary. Political actors who treat Ekiti State as a “farm settlement” should not be encouraged. This category of people live outside the state, they come to play politics and go back to their preferred place of abode. Farm-settlement politicians are more likely to fleece the meager resources of the state. Let it be the other way round, by making Ekiti your home and any other place the farm settlement. The new order is to make the class of people who see Ekiti as their home-base to dominate our political space towards boosting Ekiti fortune and making

the state to be better for it. PSM is about departure from a system that has become one huge waste. An intervention of a purpose driven governance that will clear debris of deceit, duplicity, double dealing, lies and treachery. An administration that will be bold to check and demobilize politicians who have turned our politics into a hoax, a portal of guile and dissimulation. When one is made a leader or called upon to lead, it comes with responsibility to bring the best out of others. It is not just a matter of wearing a crown or parading the title of being called councilor, commissioner, honorable, governor, senator or president. The PSM is about “servant-authority” whereby whoever emerges as the president, senator, governor or councilor will see himself or herself as the chief servant officer and not a tin-god! "The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Mathew 23:11-12 Memory of Alhaji Lateef Jakande keeps resonating on the power of selflessness in government and Mother Theresa’s service to humanity at its best which earned her Nobel Prize. More than a president of any nation, any pope, state governor or chief executive officer of a multinational corporation, the virtuous woman in her simplicity had authority because she was a servant. She glorified God in her service to mankind. During Ekiti North senatorial election rerun in 2009 Looking back, I associated with the electioneering campaign of the first civilian governor of Ekiti-State in 1999. His successor was at the 1st Ekiti Day, hosted on December 5th 2003 by a group which I co-initiated. After the anthem I composed was rendered, the governor was so impressed and pronounced it the first Ekiti State anthem. On March 6th 2005, the inspiration to convene an indigenous intellectual Roundtable manifested, Ekitipanupo Forum evolved. The 1st public lecture of Ekitipanupo Forum was hosted on April 7th, 2007 during the emergency rule interregnum and Ekitipanupo Magazine was launched. The 10th anniversary of Ekitipanupo Forum was marked with the 2nd public lecture at Afe Babalola University in 2015 and the Ekitipanupo Legacy Book was formally presented to the public. In 2016, Ekiti Colloquium was hosted by Ekitipanupo Forum. Leadership is essentially about service, empowerment and inspiration and not about control, power and manipulation. Towards driving the paradigm shift to fruition, Atoke-ibe-rosi Strategy Group (ASG) has been constituted. The pioneers are reputable indigenes from over 60 Ekiti towns across all the local government areas, who have encouraged me over the years and believe in my ability, with all humility, to provide the required leadership. ASG is open to people of good character who can add value to the 2022 mission in Ekiti-State. The target is for every Ekiti community to be represented in the strategy group. God may not call many to fame and fortune, but He calls everyone to serve faithfully with the given talents. If perchance, what we do earns us recognition, fame or affluence, let it be done to the glory of God. My prayer is that whatever my calling, my lot, my circumstances, and my divine given gifts, may God help me and grant me the grace to use all to serve my people and glorify our almighty creator. Here I am, send me (Isaiah 6:8) to lead the paradigm shift in a lasting purpose driven governance in Ekiti, come 2022, God being my helper. t"O FTTBZ EFEJDBUFE UP NBSL UI BOOJWFSTBSZ PG &LJUJQBOVQP 'PSVN PO .BSDI UI CZ UIF DPOWFOFS 4FZF "EFUVONCJ

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Quick Takes Minister, EVC at WATRA 2021 AGM

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STAKEHOLDERS’ ENGAGEMENT FORUM

L-R: Executive Director, Tech4Dev, Diwura Oladepo; Senior Special Adviser to the Governor of Benue State on ICT, Jeﬀrey Udende and Head, UK Digital Access Programme and Country Adviser, Idongesit Udoh, during the stakeholders’ engagement forum on Basic Digital Literacy for Rural Clusters in Northern Nigeria, which held at Transcorp Hilton Abuja...recently

Stakeholders Canvass Policies to Regulate Cryptocurrency Stories by Emma Okonji The Nigerian Technology Industry Group has said there should be core policies that would help in regulating cryptocurrency providers in Nigeria. The group stated this following the directive given by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) last month that deposit money banks (DMBs), non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) and other financial institutions (OFIs), should not deal with cryptocurrencies and facilitating payments for cryptocurrency providers in Nigeria. In a document released recently by the group, it analysed the implications of an outright ban on cryptocurrency trade in Nigeria, and suggested core policies that would help the CBN regulate all crypto

TELECOM transactions in the country. According to the document, the directive would significantly dampen the quest for adoption of global best practices on financial inclusion, which include cryptocurrencies and virtual assets. Rather than outright ban, on cryptocurrencies, the industry stakeholders suggested different policy regulations such as ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC), Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT). The stakeholders advised CBN to, among other policy regulations, formalise KYC, AML and CFT processes for cryptocurrency providers; monitor transactions on cryptocurrency providers;

ensure entities dealing with cryptocurrencies can be known and licensed accordingly; regulate cryptocurrencies as digital commodities and implement a Capital again Tax (CGT); implement a six-month suspension of the CBN’s latest cryptocurrency exchange restriction; create an off-shore international finance centre to ensure consistency with Nigeria’s diversification and exchange rate policy. The stakeholders were of the view that outright ban would cost Nigeria so much, being a leader in the cryptocurrency space, where the world enthusiastically embraces the potential of cryptocurrency together with blockchain technology. Analysing the risks associated with outright ban, the industry tech group said it would expose market participants to nefarious

activities, thereby reducing the government’s ability to track in its entirety, while creating gaps for more fraudulent practices. “Driving an underground market will expand the register of illegality around cryptocurrency trade and increase the demand for anonymity and concealment. The drive underground will truncate strategies targeted at reducing crime rates by creating more wicked developmental problems with complications for the economy. Additionally, the outright ban will cause untold hardships to traders whose transaction settlements are yet to yield value,” the group said. It added that the directive may lead to unfair profiling and harassment from law Continued on page 24

Airtel CEO Identifies Strategies for Resilience during Crisis The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya, has identified key strategies that business owners and leaders could adopt to be resilient in times of crisis and challenges. He listed some of the strategies to include empathy, purpose, vision, integrity, good communication skills and called on business leaders to cultivate the qualities if they must succeed and achieve results during turbulent times. Speaking during the recently concluded Business Roundtable of Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN), which held virtually, Ogunsanya offered practical tips leaders could adopt in the event of a major

TELECOM crisis such as the COVUD-19 global pandemic. He said leaders must never be in denial whenever there is a crisis, noting that business managers and chief executives must be bold, decisive and should immediately confront any crisis situation while demonstrating ability to handle complex situation. According to him, the ability to demonstrate empathy as a leader is essential at a time where feelings of uncertainty are at an all-time high, stressing the need for leaders to confront reality and not lose the essence of the organisation’s purpose during disruptive times.

Speaking on the importance of good communication skills, the CEO stated that every leader should be able to clearly communicate the organisation’s purpose and vision, identifying this as an avenue to demonstrate commitment whilst creating opportunity to develop and grow relationship with people within the organisation. “Good leadership involves communicating effectively. As an individual occupying a leadership position, most especially during turbulent period, you need to constantly communicate with your people. It is important to leave the communication channels open. By communicating, you are not only building trust but also opening an avenue for

collective contributions and this will drive engagement and solutions”, Ogunsanya stated. Discussing the essence of maintaining integrity in a workplace, he said a good leader must uphold strong moral and ethical principles, including honesty, loyalty, dependability and sound judgement. He went on to advise leaders not to be afraid to show vulnerability as it reflects humanity and compassion. “Showing vulnerability as a leader is not a sign of weakness, it is simply being human. An honest leader should be able to show vulnerability whilst also demonstrating compassion. Continued on page 24

Konga to Launch New Store in Owerri

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MTN Group Appoints Ekeji

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“The ICT infrastructure project of the Nigeria Immigration Service, which was conceived and implemented under my supervision, is a National Command and Control Centre, for all data coming from border management outposts, be it satellite, earth connecting stations and unmanned space vehicles” Minister of Interior,

Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola

T H I S D AY ˾ ͯͯ˜ ͰͮͰͯ

BUSINESSWORLD STAKEHOLDERS CANVASS POLICIES TO REGULATE CRYPTOCURRENCY enforcement authorities on anyone with any crypto trading applications on their mobile phones. “The situation may exacerbate the current suffering from stereotypes attached to young Nigerian entrepreneurs in technology,” the group further said. Highlighting the economic growth opportunities of trading in cryptocurrency, representatives of Nigerian Technology Industry Group, Kola Aina and Adia Sowho, said Nigeria had been at the forefront of technology innovation in African financial services for decades. They said: “Progressive regulation by the Central Bank has created a billiondollar Fintech industry, with hundreds of millions of dollars in investment, while creating thousands of jobs. Cryptocurrencies and their blockchain technology are the next financial technology with the potential to transform the payments and cross-border space, while accelerating financial inclusion. Government must therefore ensure that the adoption of cryptocurrencies are consistent with its diversification and exchange rate policies. To achieve this, we recommend that Nigeria emulates a model similar to China and establishes an International Finance Centre in a Special Economic Zone. The framework allows the Central Bank to license offshore banks that can operate in Nigeria’s free trade zones. Under this model, the government will attract significant foreign direct investment while sustaining the adoption of cryptocurrencies in a regulated environment.”

AIRTEL CEO IDENTIFIES STRATEGIES FOR RESILIENCE DURING CRISIS One of the ways you can show compassion during turbulent times is by offering employees the opportunity to choose to work at home or select days in which they can work physically at the office. Empathy and compassion not only inspire your people but also help in building a collaborative environment,” he said.

Group Business Editor

NEWS

America Restates Commitment to Grow Nigeria’s Economy Stories by Emma Okonji American Business Council (ABC), a trade platform and voice of American businesses operating in Nigeria, has restated its commitment to support trade in Nigeria and to grow the Nigerian economy, despite challenges that range from policy implementation, access to foreign currency, political uncertainty, to specific industry regulations. The council identified the challenges in its recent survey, tagged: ‘2020 Nigeria Economic Impact Survey’, which it administered in collaboration with the United States Embassy, Verraki, KPMG and PwC. The survey, which was released last week, analysed the economic effect of United States (US) companies on the Nigerian economy between 2019 and 2020. It measured changes in business revenue, foreign investment, job creation, gross value added and plans for expansion within the period. According to the survey report, over 65.12 per cent of US companies operating in Nigeria, identified Nigeria as the regional hub for their operations in West Africa, yet the report showed that there was a drop in the creation of direct and indirect jobs in 2019 by American companies,

compared to what was obtained in 2018. The report also showed a decrease in generated revenue from $1.47 trillion in 2018 to $1.08 trillion in 2019. The survey report further explained a reduction in the amount of planned investments in the next three years to $2.37 billion, compared to the over $2.57 billion that was spent on expansion in the last

five years. Although the report identified government policy implementation and specific industry regulation as some key factors that were responsible for the drop in business activities in 2019 and 2020, the President, ABC, Mr. Dipo Faulkner, while analysing the report also attributed that challenges faced by American

companies, to include the effect of COVID-19 pandemic and the global economy restructuring. He, however, said ABC would not be deterred by the challenges, since most of them were global in nature. “The effect of COVID-19 and the global restructuring affected the impact of American businesses on the Nigerian economy

in the areas of job creation, expansion of investments and revenue generation, but ABC is creating jobs in Nigeria through the over 100 American companies operating in Nigeria, thereby impacting the Nigerian economy with direct and indirect jobs, which has helped in addressing unemployment in Nigeria,” Faulkner said.

RECOGNITION OF SERVICE

L-R: Public Relations and CSR Specialist at 9mobile, Joshua Oluranti; front line health worker at the Infectious Disease Hospital, Yaba, Lagos, Dr. Ayodeji Anthony Falana and Corporate Communications Lead at 9mobile, Chineze Amanfo, during a plaque presentation award to Falana for his selﬂess service to COVID-19 patients, which held in Lagos...recently

IWD: Google.org Pledges $25m for Women, Girls Empowerment As the world celebrated International Women’s Day on Monday, to recognise and empower women and the girl child, Google.org has pledged a whopping $25 million as grant funding for women and girls in Africa. Google.org, which is the philanthropic arm of Google, has therefore challenged African women and girls to turn their passion into action by taking part in the grant funding. The challenge invites applications for cash grants from non-

profit organisations dedicated to the economic empowerment of women and girls in Africa. Google.org’s open call on IWD for applications for grant funding from its new Global Impact Challenge (GIC) for women and girls, reinforces the organisation’s commitment to the empowerment of women and girls on the African continent. The GIC for women and girls, which will provide $25 million in overall cash grants to non-profits and social enterprises creating pathways

to prosperity for women and girls, follows initiatives like the 2019 Africa launch of Women Will, Google’s initiative to create opportunities for women, and Google’s #IamRemarkable workshop series, which works to counteract conditioning that women shouldn’t celebrate their achievements. Organisations have until Friday, April 2 to submit their applications. Quoting the Foresight Africa report 2021, the Country Director, Google Nigeria, Juliet Ehimuan,

said empowering women and girls in Africa to reach their full economic potential, and to thrive, would be more critical now than ever before as they bear the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Foresight Africa report confirms that the coronavirus has “exacerbated alreadyexisting gender inequalities, laying bare serious fault lines in safety, physical and mental health, education, domestic responsibilities, and employment opportunities.” The report, however, warned

that despite decades of work aimed at achieving gender equality, the disparity between men and women not only remains, but is growing alarmingly, largely thanks to the global pandemic. The GIC for women and girls is focused on changing the status quo, with Ehimuan stressing that job cuts, income losses and lack of education are not simply side-effects of the pandemic, but “will negatively impact the economic strides made by women and girls for many years to come.”

Firm Harps on Tech Solutions to Enhance Agriculture Afrimash Limited, an indigenous eCommerce firm based in Ibadan, Oyo State, has stressed the importance of robust technology solutions in enhancing food security and production in the agricultural sector. The firm said the application of the right technology solutions would help Nigerian farmers get the best inputs such as equipment, livestock, seedlings, fertilizers, and quality vaccines

that would enable them to increase food production while making agriculture convenient. Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, Afrimash Limited, Ahmed Ayoade Oyedotun, said the company had been engaging farmers designed fintech the last four years. He said: “Afrimash runs an eCommerce platform, or farmers to access quality inputs from verified farm input suppliers. Using our online

platform, farmers get quick and convenient access to a variety of inputs, place their orders online, and receive their farm inputs delivered to their locations across Nigeria. We run a system that ensures farmers can shop online with peace of mind. In the past four years, we have been offering agriculture-based eCommerce services via our platform where farmers can get tools, and other agricultural inputs.”

He said although access to quality inputs remained one of the biggest challenges that farmers face in Nigerian and Africa, Afrimash would continue to bridge the gap using technology. “Today, quite a number of farmers have internet access and we leverage on the everincreasing internet penetration rate in Nigeria. This guarantees us of consistent increase in the number of people that can access

our eCommerce site. Aside from internet penetration, the GSM penetration rate in Nigeria is high and constantly growing. This means that farmers who do not have internet access will have feature phones to make phone calls. So, we have developed a hybrid system that makes it easy for farmers to buy even without the internet through our dedicated shopping assistants that farmers can call, using their feature phones,” Oyedotun said.

ÌÓØØË ÒÓ×Ë Capital Market Editor

Goddy Egene

Comms/e-Business Editor

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Forum Seeks Industry Collaboration for Learning Skills Participants who attended this year’s e-symposium to commemorate 2021 World Engineering Day, organised by the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (NIEEE), have identified the existing gaps between the academia, technology industry players and the government, that have militated the against the development of the right academic skills needed for the

labour market. A University don, Prof. Gloria Chukwuedebe, therefore called for the collaboration between government, academia and industries towards evolving an implementable engineering curricular, tailored towards Nigeria’s peculiar needs for rapid growth and industrialisation. Chukwuedebe, who is the Dean, School of Computing and Information Technology,

Federal University of Technology Owerri, (FUTO), spoke on the theme: ‘Reforming Electrical Engineering Education.’ She said collaboration towards the right skills for manufacturing was important for academic researches to proffer actual practical solutions to societal problems, while stressing the need for collaboration between industry, government and academia.

Chukwudebe added that the collaboration was important for Nigeria to excel in innovation, research and development and to achieve the UN Sustainable Developing Goals (SDGs) and become a self-sufficient nation. She said manufacturing would become easier when government’s funding for research is increased to enable industries adapt and perfect the works of researchers.

While giving a detailed history of the evolution of engineering from the first generation to the currently debated 5G technology, she said engineers were working silently in various sectors towards transforming lives globally. The Dean, Faculty of Technology, University of Ibadan, Prof. Olasebikan Fakolujo, said in 2015 over 250,000 graduates relied on formal jobs, which worsened unemployment in Nigeria.

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ANALYSIS

Economic Imperatives of the NIS N9.1bn Infrastructure Emma Okonji writes about the economic importance and security of the N9.1 billion Information and Communications Technology infrastructure of the Nigeria Immigration Service that was launched last week

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? Last week’s inauguration of the N9.1 billion Technology Building in Abuja, belonging to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), provides a convergence point for security agencies in the country to address the degenerating security issues including porous border lines while enhancing economic integration and population control. The federal government, through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), is keen about addressing security issues in the country, in order to further grow the Nigerian economy. Beaming its search light on the telecoms sector, the ONSA has ordered the telecoms industry regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), to beef up security around SIM card registration, which led the ongoing SIM-NIN integration exercise, designed to link all registered SIM cards to National Identification Numbers (NIN). The essence is to control crime rates by tracing and tracking any kidnapper who uses mobile phones to contact families of their victims for ransom. The Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) Medium Term Plan for 2017 – 2020 was developed by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari for the purpose of restoring economic growth while leveraging the ingenuity and resilience of the Nigerian people – the nation’s most priceless assets. In the ERGP, the federal government prioritises the deployment of Information and Communications Technology (ICT), not only to ensure effective diversification of the economy from overreliance on oil revenue but also to address the issue of insecurity, tackle corruption and enhance economic growth. The policy direction, already escalated to all the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government for implementation is in line with the Federal Government’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy 10-year roadmap, among other policy initiatives aimed at digitally transforming Nigerian economy. In recent times, countries around the world, Nigeria inclusive, have been making efforts to leverage ICT towards enhancing government operational efficiency and better service delivery to the citizens. In Nigeria, the most recent of such ICT projects in this direction is the Technology Building that was recently implemented by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) under the leadership of its current Comptroller General (CG), Mohammad Babandede. The project, which is heralding a new vista for the country to be able to strengthen regional and international collaborations through effective data management and information sharing, is Babandede’s signature project. NIS’s technology building The NIS N9.1 billion Technology Building clearly underscores the preeminent role of information technology in security management, given the current socio-economic and security challenges facing the country. The project, which started in 2018 and has been fully delivered, is now regarded as a symbol of the ongoing digital revolution in the country. The Technology Building houses the National Command and Control Centre of NIS, thus providing a unique platform for security agencies in the country to truly synergize and harmonize efforts under one roof to frontally address various national security concerns using the instrumentality of Information and Communication Technology. Speaking at the unveiling of the ultra-modern ICT infrastructure in Abuja last week, Presiden Buhari said: “The Technology Building has been implemented by NIS as part of efforts by the federal government to effectively leverage ICT to enhance Nigeria’s socio-economic development and improve national security of lives and property in the country while ensuring international collaboration.” The president commended the speedy

NIS Technology Building

delivery of the project, which he described as the most advanced since the establishment of NIS in 1958, by the Project Implementation Committee and promised continued support of his administration to the NIS leadership towards curbing criminal activities within and across the country’s borders. In the same vein, Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, said the ICT infrastructure project conceived and well-implemented under the supervision of his ministry, is National Command and Control Centre, for all data coming from border management outposts, “be it satellite, earth connecting stations and unmanned space vehicles.” According to him, the centre would receive and give out still and motion pictures and audio signals in real time, coordinating seamlessly, movements within the Nigerian borders. “The NIS Technology Building, therefore, marks the first step in our long-term border management programme that will put our entire borderline under real time monitoring, thereby giving our law enforcement agencies capacity to totally secure our citizens and land from external threat,” the Minister said, assuring Nigerians that the security challenges the country currently faces are surmountable and are indeed being addressed through ICT, as demonstrated by currently NIS leadership.” Though there are shared security concerns in the country, Aregbesola assured that government was doing everything possible to tackle the security challenges facing the country’s borders, land, sea and air. While acknowledging that the NIS has deployed adequate security in our air border, it has been observed that our land borders remain the weakest link, requiring a more advanced technology deployment approach, just as the Technology Buidling, to address the concerns. According to him, “The challenge now is on how to effectively patrol the 4,047km land borders which comprise 1,690km with Cameroon, 87km with Chad, 1,497 with Niger, 733 with Benin Republic and a coastal line of Gulf of Guinea with 853km, leveraging on this technology in addition to existing measures already put in place by the Service.”

Corroborating the minister’s position, Babandede, in his address, said with the Technology Building, the NIS would be able to deploy the e-border capability for enhanced border security and also harness mobility data available to us in the virtual space, application of facilities, parts control, residency and registration of migrants. Babandede said with regards to the security of the data, the service has several layers of protection ranging from the physical level which include the provision of Close Circuit Television (CCTV), access control as well as system surveillance, to firewall and vulnerability testing in the network security down to constant penetration test of Cloud Technology and Internet of Things (IoT). Economic/security imperatives The NIS’s robust technology building makes it a great investment and a huge contribution to global security particularly with its effective connectivity to special platforms such as the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) and International Civil Aviation Organisation’s Public Key Directory (PKD) and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). While the PKD is a central repository for exchanging the information required to authenticate e-Passports, PKI, on the other hand, is an hierarchical system made up of hardware, software and strict policies enabling the management, distribution, use, storage, and revocation of digital certificates and public-key encryption. Using PKI technology, governments and organisations can securely manage their keys and certificates-establishing and maintaining a trustworthy working and networking environment. A PKI enables the use of encryption and digital signature services across a wide variety of applications such as for digitally signing ePassports or eIDs. All these, according to stakeholders will help in ensuring credible identity security management which will help in boosting the nation’s economic, enabling increased Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The NIS’ Technology Building, therefore, offers a lot of security benefits to the country. According to them, with the project, both local and

The NIS Technology Building marks the first step in the long-term border management programme that will put the entire borderline under real time monitoring, thereby giving our law enforcement agencies capacity to totally secure citizens and land from external threat. It will also address Nigeria’s border security challenges

transnational criminal activities can easily be monitored and nipped in the bud. In a related development, Babandede has disclosed that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) recently approved Security Data Intelligence contract, which is a data consolidation, reconciliation and reporting solution. “This solution and the PKD/PKI solution, approved by FEC early in 2021, will make the technology building, housing the National Command and Control Centre, gather information faster, optimise our collaboration, drive better informed decision making and ultimately help improve travel experience,” the Babandede said. Following his appointment as Comptroller General in 2016, there has been an upscale of NIS systems and processes, which have enabled the Service to institute several reform efforts thereby advancing ease of doing business and also contributing to the national Security architecture, NIS has evolved into a world-class migration management agency and has continued to play its pivotal role in the security and economic development of the country. For all the achievements in evolving a more world-class migration management agency since he assumed the office in 2016, Babandede has commended the federal government, the United Nations agency for Migration, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) for galvanizing international support for NIS to build the Migration Information Data Analysis System (MIDAS), one of the biggest and effective Border Management Information System in the country. According to him, MIDAS, which will be more centrally coordinated through the technology building, allows states to collect, process and record information for the purpose of travelers’ identification, verifying biometrics, inspecting and authenticating travel documents and data collection and analysis. Stakeholders’ position Industry stakeholders have said the technology building could not have come at a better time than now as it has placed the Service in a vantage position to confront the criminal activities of terrorists, migrants, smugglers/ human traffickers and other transnational criminal elements, who may want to use or route their nefarious activities through Nigeria’s international borders. They also observed that with the technology building, the NIS has also been equipped with a major ICT infrastructure that will keep it ready at all times to confront and check such reprehensible activities in line with International best practices.

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Oladepo: How Literacy Skills Can Bridge Digital Divide Executive Director, Tech4Dev, Diwura Oladepo, in this interview with Nosa Alekhuogie, speaks about the need to empower rural and underserved communities with basic digital skills. Excerpts:

ech4Dev and Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in the United Kingdom(UK), signed an agreement to train people in Northern Nigeria on basic digital skills. What informed this initiative, and what does it seek to achieve? In a time of social distancing and government-enforced lockdowns to curtail the spread of COVID-19, digital technology became the enabler of the continuation of work, education, and communication. But for millions of people who are unable to use technology, the offline world is economically and socially isolating. COVID-19 has further illuminated the ‘digital divide’, which is even more pronounced in Nigeria and worse in poor rural clusters of Northern Nigeria. Therefore, it has become pertinent, especially on this path to the new normal, to focus on digital literacy, to support vulnerable populations to leverage technology for commerce, education, and communication to improve their socio-economic recovery and pandemic resilience and build a more prosperous future. Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (2020-2030) vision is to transform Nigeria into a leading digital economy, providing quality life and digital economies for all in 10 years. This strategy is also to drive the digital economy agenda and to develop a large pool of digitally literate and digitally skilled citizens. Digital literacy and skills is one of the 8 pillars that the Nigerian Government has identified as an accelerator to achieve its vision. Consequently, digital literacy has become a survival necessity for all given the current mandate and global technology progression. To bridge the digital divide, it is essential to introduce learners in underserved communities to the world of digital literacy and equip them with the basic digital knowledge required to succeed in the 21st-century world and workplace. The Basic Digital Literacy for Rural Clusters in Northern Nigeria programme was designed to combat this problem. By investing in digital literacy for vulnerable people living in rural clusters in Northern Nigeria, this programme contributes towards reducing the poverty index by increasing the employability of beneficiaries and closing the gap of access to digital skills needed in the digital economy. What is the financial commitment of Tech4Dev and FCDO towards the digital training skills, and what is each partner bringing to the table? To successfully implement the basic digital literacy training, Technology for Social Change and Development Initiative (Tech4Dev), a non-profit organisation that creates access to entrepreneurship opportunities, is committed to bringing its expertise, resources, personnel, key trainers, among others in executing the programme across the selected states, while the FCDO, UK is supporting the project with £229,200. How many northern states will the initiative cover in the first instance and what are the plans to cover the entire northern region of the country and extend same to other regions of the country? The Basic Digital Literacy project is designed to reach 1,000 beneficiaries in 10 rural clusters, across 10 states in Northern Nigeria. The ongoing training has already been implemented across some northern states, which include: Benue, Kwara, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Zamfara, Kogi, Plateau, Jigawa, Sokoto and Niger. Are you collaborating with the federal government on this initiative, and what is the level of government’s involvement? We are collaborating with the state governments in the respective 10 selected states as well as independent stakeholders to provide digital centres with active computers able to cater to the training in

important of them all. There is no successful ecosystem without a combination of the right and quality skillset, and therefore, as an organisation, we are focused on empowering people with the needed technology skills to ensure they can effectively participate in the technology ecosystem. Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan, Economic Sustainability Plan as well as Digital Economy Strategy have all identiﬁed digital skills as key to economic prosperity for all Nigerians. What are your plans to leverage these government initiatives to enhance digital skills among Nigerians? We are already well-aligned to these initiatives as they echo the ethos that has guided our mission so far. We are actively engaging and are open to being engaged by the government and partners to ensure the success of these initiatives in the coming years. We have the expertise, experience, and willingness to do the work. How will the programme affect Nigeria’s approach to digital literacy? We are currently wrapping up the programme and preparing for a stakeholder engagement event where we will be sharing key learnings from the programme. These learnings will be documented in the programme handbook and factsheets. We hope that organisations will learn from our successes and the challenges we have had to scale and join hands to drive digital literacy in Nigeria further. Oladepo

the individual states. The programme will last for a couple of weeks with beneficiaries equipped with basic digital skills. Since you are offering basic digital skills, who are the target audience and beneﬁciaries and what is the duration of the courses to be offered? The programme will reach 1,000 beneficiaries, targeting 50 per cent vulnerable women and girls that are aged between 8-18 years and 45-65 years. It also targets 30 of Persons with Disabilities (PWD), e.g. mobility, speech, polio, among others and 20 per cent for other vulnerable groups. The training was scheduled for 12 weeks. How will the training impact on the community and the country, especially at this period when the global economy is talking about digital transformation? The training takes us one step closer to achieving a nation where digital innovation and entrepreneurship are combined to create value and prosperity for all by 2030. We hope that these beneficiaries would transfer their knowledge to their peers and that they will support their immediate families with the added income they realise by putting the skills to work. All these have a ripple effect on the greater community. The success we have recorded is an indicator that we can scale this to other communities and impact the nation as a whole too. Is this initiative a one-off training or a continuous one, considering the fact that Nigeria has large population of people that are digitally illiterate? The engagement with FCDO on the Basic Digital Literacy project is a one-off train-

ing. However, we are currently engaging with the respective state governments to ensure that beneficiaries from the project can participate in intermediate digital literacy training and chart a career in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education for the young participants. Tech4Dev runs intermediate level digital skills initiatives, and we hope to partner with the states governments to ensure these participants can partake in them. What happens after training? Will there be ﬁnancial and infrastructural support that the trained persons will leverage on? We maintain contact with our beneficiaries after the training; this is to connect them with opportunities and platforms that would allow them to hone their skills further. As an organization, we are continually engaging partners who can support our beneficiaries by providing access to the necessary infrastructure and financing they require. What is your assessment of startup development in the country, in relation to training and innovation to develop home grown solutions that will address speciﬁc needs of the people? We believe that the startup landscape has experienced some growth and progress, which are evident in the number of startups raising capital from foreign investors and positioning for exits, which was not a common phenomenon five to six years ago. Despite this progress, there is still much to do. Building a thriving startup ecosystem requires the interaction of several factors, but skill and talent are the most

By investing in digital literacy for vulnerable people living in rural clusters in Northern Nigeria, this programme contributes towards reducing the poverty index by increasing the employability of beneficiaries and closing the gap of access to digital skills needed in the digital economy

With COVID-19, digital literacy has become a must-have. How will you leverage on the necessity brought about by COVID-19 to deepen digital literacy across Nigeria? We will do more, create more awareness and foster the penetration of digital skills training. We believe the situation created by COVID-19 allows our voice to be clearer, and the importance of the work we do, more apparent. Now we would make it louder and more effective. How will this project help to close the existing digital divide in the country to enable inclusive digital access among the people of Nigeria? Women and persons with disabilities are among the most marginalised groups in Nigeria. The situation is even further compounded when they are located in marginalised communities. Through this training, we are creating leverage for these beneficiaries. The benefits of this leverage will be seen, and we trust that it will compel stakeholders to participate in these efforts, thus increasingly closing the digital divide and fostering inclusive digital access. How will you monitor the progress of those trained after the training? Are there Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure their performance after training? Yes, there are KPIs. We monitor the STEM participation of beneficiaries; how many of them are leveraging these skills within their jobs or careers and indirect impacts such as the change in their family’s living standards. What is your assessment of technology development across Nigeria, and what are some of the challenges that government should address? Nigeria is still growing with regards to technology development. A large proportion of the population are aware of technology but are not active participants in the digital age. The cost of being digitally active is still on the high side when you contrast it to the average Nigerian income. We need to drive down both the cost of power, cost of internet connectivity and provide access to fast and reliable internet connectivity. We will make a lot of progress if these are accomplished.

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ANALYSIS

Outdoor Advertising Practitioners at Crossroads Raheem Akingbolu writes on the likely impact the federal government’s proposed road concession and Lagos State alleged regulatory discrimination could have on outdoor advertising fortune in the years ahead

MD, LASAA, Damola Docemo

ince the year 2006, in the twilight of the Senator Bola Tinubu’s administration in Lagos State, when the government established the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) to regulate outdoor businesses, the outdoor industry has been jumping from one controversy to the other. Perhaps because of the mutual suspicion that existed between the pioneer Managing Director of the agency, Makanjuola Alabi and the leadership of the Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN), the foundation was laid on mistrust, highhandedness, accusations and counter accusations. The fact that Alabi was also a struggling practitioner before he was appointed, made stakeholders in the industry saw his appointment as unhealthy. As a result of this, LASAA has always been viewed as one agency of government that was created to frustrate advertising practitioners in the out-of-home sub sector of the industry. Thus, there hasn’t been a mutual relationship between the successive managing directors of LASAA and the leadership of OAAN. After the Lagos experience, which was believed to have jacked up the state’s revenue base, other states had quickly readjusted and established state outdoor agencies to share regulatory functions with the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON). The consequence of this is that operators have continued to contend with multiple regulations local governments, states and APCON waylay agency owners for charges. Between LASAA and LOATSAD… Unlike previous MDs of LASAA, Adedamola Docemo, the new helmsman, enjoyed a few months of honeymoon before controversy set in. Few weeks ago, the news had filtered in that Docemo might lose the plum job over his unilateral decision to employ 92 workers without the consent of the state governor. While his spin doctors were working to dispel what they described as ‘mere allegation’, some outdoor practitioners cried out that Docemo and his team were not providing a level playing field for Lagos practitioners. According to fresh findings, LASAA is believed to be shielding and protecting the business interest of a new agency, LOATSAD Promomedia Lmited. Aside from having exclusivity right on some major roads in Lagos, the agency, which was recently established by Mr. Seyi Tinubu, son of a former governor of the state, was said to enjoy unbridled freedom and exception. As at the time of filing in this report, the MD of LOATSAD, Mr. Adenrele Olusoga, neither picked calls nor replied to the messages sent to his MTN line. Today, stakeholders in the entire marketing communications landscape are back to the drawing board to save the multibillion naira businesses in the outdoor sub-sector of the industry. According to a source within LASAA, the routes that have been monopolised by

Fashola

LOATSAD include; Lekki –Epe Road, the newly-built Murtala Muhammed Airport Road, the Badagry Road and others. But according to a senior practitioner, who spoke to THISDAY in confidence, the sites on these roads were said to have been allocated to the new agency with little or no regard to other operators to participate in the bidding process. “LOATSAD has simply taken over the entire outdoor Ad space, in Lagos, with alleged full support of the state, through its outdoor regulatory agency, the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA),” the practitioner alleged. According to the practitioner, many choice areas, in the state, such as Lekki –Epe Road, the newly-built Murtala Muhammed Airport Road, the Badagry Road and others, had been allocated to this agency, while other operators were not given the opportunity to even participate, at the bidding process. More worrisome to stakeholders, according to the outdoor practitioner is the fact that there seems to be no criteria employed by the state’s outdoor regulatory agency, at arriving at the choice of the young outdoor advertising firm that is connected to a big man in politics. “Not that we are against concessioning, but we believe it should not be done at the expense of standards. We believe all the cards must be put on the table. There should be a level-playing field. We should not just wake up and realize that a part of the metropolis has been concessioned, without any call for bidding. “For instance, nobody knows the criteria being used to arrive at the choice of this particular agency as beneficiary of such concessions, and many others,” stated the practitioner, who would want to remain anonymous now. The practitioner also alleged that LASAA had not been giving practitioners a level-playing field to operate. “You will agree with me that when you give such juicy parts of the state to just one firm, and others are left to struggle with the ‘bones’, I think there is an issue,” he added. According to him, despite the fact that the young agency owes the state’s regulatory agency a humongous amount of money, the outdoor firm is usually exempted when enforcements are being done. “They are usually exempted when enforcements are being carried out, just because of their strong connections to those in the corridors of power. Unfortunately, when you give such indulgence, and pursue those with milder debts with a sledge hammer, I think there is a problem here,” he added. Reacting to the issue, the Head of Communications at LASAA, Mr. Temitope Akande, dismissed the various claims made against the new advertising firm, arguing that the practitioners were only looking for ways to blackmail the government agency. “If indeed some practitioners alleged that LASAA is shielding LOATSAD, then they

are not sincere. As I speak, hardly there is any outdoor agency in Lagos that does not owe LASAA but because the agency is keen about protecting businesses, various payment plans were agreed upon. The firm in question is not only meeting its financial obligation, it also follows the rules of the business to the latter. It is also not true that LOATSAD has moved beyond the Lekki axis corridor in its businesses. We haven’t concessioned any other roads to the firm, apart from the previous arrangements, and any one with contrary evidence can come up with that. I think it is wrong for anybody to make claims that cannot be substantiated,” Akande stated. Akande also described as untrue, the allegation that the outdoor firm was always shielded by the regulatory agency, anytime it went out for enforcement. He also bluntly declared that most agencies in Lagos are indebted to LASAA. “What we have done is to allow them to have a payment plan. We only go after those that failed to honour such plans. So if the agency is not going after LOATSAD, what it simply means is that the firm is keeping to its payment plans,” he added. Speaking on the current development, a former Deputy Provost at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Dr. Jide Johnson, cautioned the state government from embarking on any retrogressive practice that could hamper the growth of the industry. “To grow the industry, outdoor business in Lagos must not be monopolised. The process of site allocation must be democratized. For instance, opening up the Airport route to many practitioners will deepen creativity and allow Nigeria to showcase her best,” he stated. FG’s proposed concession of highways The task before the industry has moved from the states to national level. To this end, major operators have started expressing fears over the plan by the federal government to concession twelve major roads in the country. The Federal Ministry of Works and Housing (FMW&H) announced last month that it would concession 12 major roads in the country, under the Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI). In the briefing guide, obtained by THISDAY from the Federal Ministry of Works, which addressed frequently asked questions on the proposed project, advertising is prominently identified as one of the revenue generating assets after the exercise. However, it was not stated if the existing agency would be on priority list to protect businesses and prevent multiple job loss. The briefing guide also explained that there will be advertising income and Street lighting opportunities in the highway economy value chain, pointing out that the objective is to develop an eco-system along the federal highway network by bringing multi-dimensional resources of skills, manpower, finance, technology, and efficiency into the National Highway governance.

According to the guide the affected roads are; Benin-Asaba, Abuja-Lokoja, Kano-Katsina, Onitsha-Owerri, Shagamu-Benin and AbujaKeffi-Akwanga. Others are, Kano- Shuari, Potiskum- Damaturu, Lokoja Benin and EnuguPort Harcourt Though the statement speaks glowingly on using the policy to boost the economy, the NIJ Mass Communication lecturer, pointed out that past experience had shown that road concession hardly considers the business interest of the existing outdoor practitioners. “Over the years, outdoor business has suffered setbacks because of unfair regulation and lopsided policies on road management. At the beginning, the outdoor practitioners were at the mercy of the local government and APCON before some states established regulatory agencies. Now the Federal Government is introducing the Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI) that may soon become another regulator and advertising site allocator. We were all here during the concession of Lagos-Ibadan highway to the Bi-Courtney Limited and witnessed how the firm first descended on outdoor practitioners operating on the road by taking over the sites,” he stated. Speaking further, Johnson advocated for transparency in the allocation process as well as protection of local businesses. Another practitioner, expressed concerns that the recent announcement by the federal ministry would result in many practitioners being at the receiving end. “I remember the first step Bi-Courtney Limited took when it got the Lagos-Ibadan highway was to remove all the billboards on that corridor, and begin to erect personalised ones. Instead of facing road construction, outdoor ad practice was the first thing the company delved into, immediately it got there. A lot of practitioners, in that corridor, lost huge amounts of money. So how are we sure the new arrangement by FMWH would be different?” he asked. The stakeholder believes indiscriminate concessioning and unfair regulations might further sink the fortunes of this gravely-troubled multi-billion naira sector. “Not that concessioning is out of place, but you have to take into consideration our peculiar situation. The country is going through a lot, and no industry is immune. And when you concession a huge stretch of land to just one outdoor firm, not because it is better than the others, but just because of its strong connection, you are gradually killing the practice. “For instance, we have over 150 outdoor ad firms in the country, and each of these firms employs at least ten people directly. And as a government, if you really want the economy to grow, your concerns should be how to ensure about 15,000 workers directly engaged by these firms don’t lose their jobs. And the only way you can do that is to ensure such ‘commonwealth’ go round, and not just monopolized in the name of concessioning,” he stated.

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INTERVIEW

Akinboro: Increased Investments Can Make Nigeria World’s Food Basket Chairman of Voriancorelli and Co-Founder of Cellulant, Mobolaji Akinboro in this interview with Ugo Aliogo, sheds light on his new initiative and venture-building journey, and how Voriancorelli is trying to transform the agriculture sector

ou cofounded Cellulant Nigeria and then Voriancorelli, what concerns were these startups aimed at addressing? I would like to address this question from the viewpoint of my life’s journey. The fundamental premise for me was that the people that will save Africa are Africans. There is no prosperous country on earth that was developed by outsiders, China is a perfect modern-day example, they lifted more than 400million people out of poverty in the past 30yrs. In my life’s journey of helping people, the instruments employed have been different at various stages of my life, but underneath these instruments are technology and mobile. From the beginning, I wanted to use telecommunication technology to solve different kinds of problems. I have lived a life that started from healthcare, then into the FMCGs, into higher education, Fintech and now Agritech. A few years ago, I started thinking about the challenge of making our people prosper on the continent and I looked at China, I realised that the country succeeded because they were determined to become the factory of the world. Also, United States (US) and Europe succeeded because they decided that they wanted to become the innovation and financial capital of the world. In Africa, what we have is agriculture, so we should take advantage of it, we can become the food basket of the world. The fundamental premise was how to position Africa, not just in making a difference but as the food basket of the world. So, the ultimate goal at Voriancorelli centered on how we can feed our people more efficiently, create jobs from end to end across the agro-allied value chain, from the villages to the cities and beyond the cities to the international market; that was the fundamental premise of my approach to the problem. Regarding leveraging technology to drive increased penetration for businesses, corporates, and startups, to understand how much of a role technology has played in supporting the agro-allied value chain, how much progress have you recorded? We have recorded a lot of successes in that area. Nigeria is a very interesting country. I would like to say that the largest experiment in the world regarding deploying technology among rural farmers took place in Nigeria. But like many things that come out of Nigeria, we do not like to celebrate things that come out from here. When Dr. Adesina Akinwumi was in Nigeria and we ran the E-wallet programme, a lot of people, except those who were following the initiative did not know that the E-wallet programme was one of the landmark achievements that contributed to his ascension to President of African Development Bank (AFDB). It was the first time that somebody who was a non-finance minister became the President of AFDB and also the first time a Nigerian will become president of that institution. He became president because we made sure that eight million farmers yearly from 2012 to 2015 were receiving high quality inputs such as seeds and fertilizers, through the E-wallet programme. The simple idea was that you were given a subsidy by government through your E-mobile wallet, you brought your own counterpart funds and added to it, then you went to an aggregator to collect your inputs and then planted. It was more like the marketplace for inputs. Since Akinwumi left office till today, the price of a bag of rice, which was between N8,000 to N13000 is now N22,000 to N30,000. In 2015 the price of processed rice doubled, it increased because farmers are not growing as much as they were growing because to a degree access to inputs is not a freely available and that is why you see farmers

Akinboro

Associations clamouring for a continuation of some of those approaches that they have seen work despite the fact that they had some problems. You did some training programmes in Nigeria and Overseas. How has it impacted your technological journey, especially cofounding one technology startup and later established another one? I am grateful to Nigeria because it educated me for free till I graduated from University, and I was fortunate to graduate during the era when the idea of internet services just started, and we were among the early pioneers to be exposed to it, so that helped tremendously. The second bit of the puzzle of how technology has affected me relates to what I describe as “beyond the internet stage” which is the bit that is related to the emergence of mobile phone technology at scale on the continent in the late 90’s and early 2000’s. The third bit of the puzzle was the value of education. Remember I had my first degree in Pharmacy, but through the years, I began to get exposed to education that goes beyond pharmacy which is my business economics programme in Oxford, and various executive programmes at Harvard, INSEAD and Stanford organised by the Endeavor Network founded by an awesome American lady, Linda Rosenstein. I am an individual who has been educated through a combination of a formal university programme in a technical degree-Pharmacy, executive programmes in all the aforementioned Institutions, as well as at Heriot-Watt University, Scotland. All of this helped but there was also the fourth bit of the puzzle; the involvement of technology to support growth and development. For this point I owe the World Bank a lot, they pioneered the use of technology in education in Africa, through an entity called African Virtual University, where I was privileged to be the person that lead and executed the launch as a business of a computer science degree + a teacher education programme for the STEM (science, technology, education, mathematics) wholly delivered as an open, distance/ e-learning programme. Those things have just come together to make the whole puzzle work.

What made everything work was that first there was opportunity and ability to identify those opportunities. There was also timing, which involves being present at the right time and place (i.e being in certain spaces in Nigeria and Africa at the time) so that was the second bit of the puzzle. Then there was exposure to information and knowledge that is relevant. Those bits and pieces of the puzzle are things that worked together to make the person and the journey possible. Can you give an insight about your experience when you cofounded Cellulant with a partner. How did the experience help you to succeed in the market especially the agro-allied value chain, how did it help you to support rural farmers with regards to knowledge sharing, build footprints in the marketplace and create a niche in the market? One of the things we had done very well in Cellulant that has helped was a great understanding of User Experience (UXP) which involves using technology in a very interesting way. Technology in itself is just a platform which means that it can only do what your mind can conceive that it can do. If your mind cannot conceive what it can do, it is not very useful. So, this is the nuance that I think a lot of people who are trying to do technology startups don’t really understand. We understand that technology is an enabler which will only work in certain circumstances and situations. The enabler can only do what your mind can conceive that it can do. If your mind cannot conceive what it can do it will not really achieve much. So those possibilities came because we were at the right place at the appropriate time, we understood what the technology was doing, we had opportunity. We also understood the interesting ways that Africans could use these technologies that were springing up because we were not the only ones; there were many other tech startups in the market. We acquired a footprint in the market because the job required me to travel extensively. I have lived in Ghana before living in Kenya. Before going to Kenya, I had travelled to many countries on the

continent all before I was 30years old. What this meant was that I literally knew people everywhere, and when I was in Kenya, I had a job that necessitated always been on a plane. In fact, from the age of 27, I had spent half of the year travelling from one destination to another and meeting many people as well as relocating to different countries. So, what happened was that there was an opening, which involved one of the founders having an opportunity to move across the continent and as a result it was relatively easy to leverage that to build a presence across the continent. For instance, I lived in Malawi for two and half years that was when Cellulant Malawi started. I lived in Tanzania that was when Cellulant Tanzanian started, I lived in Ghana and that was when Cellulant Ghana started, I lived in Kenya and that was when Cellulant Kenya started. The company grew because of my nomadic lifestyle. If you have not had my experience I doubt if you will be able to do what I’m doing. I have lived in villages across Africa, Tanzania, Malawi, and Kenya. So, what living in all those villages did for me was to help me understand how rural people think and operate. Contrary to what people think about rural people not being able to use technology, they can. If you focus on Facebook, as a technology platform to measure this, the question becomes what does a rural farmer need Facebook for? The people that are his world, are right in front of him. Understanding those dynamics and behaviours in rural areas allowed me to connect to our target audience, and like I said earlier that was one of the major strengths of Cellulant; the quality of the user experience. So how we were able to build a unique advantage was that we were able to use technology to assist rural people which are known as market linkage. The focus was of this initiative was using technology to connect them to market in a much more efficient way because today, the biggest fear of a farmer is that they will grow and not sell. By being the best people at solving that now, you carve that niche for yourself in a market in which everybody can come in if they have a computer. This is also what distinguishes Agritech. In Fintech, you can go and get access to API’s from a great company like Interswitch, and other aggregators, and from your bedroom, you can launch your fintech idea. This is not so with Agritech because Agritech is split into rural, semi-rural and urban segments, so if you’re not able to connect those three dots together, you cannot have a competitive advantage. So those are things I have taken advantage of through the years. Also, I like to tell people that I am probably the most educated Nigeria in this sector, because the Federal Government of Nigeria, on the subsidy programme invested $2billion into the subsidy programme e-wallet to trigger that input in the marketplace and I had the privilege of running and managing this programme for the government. Beyond that, the FGN invested more than $200 million in various experiments designed to continuously improve the programme, for example, a test was conducted to test three different models of enumerating farmers. We were able to try various tests and improve on them. You know all that was really learning and it was funded by the government. When you bring all those learnings together, what happens is that you have an individual who has done experiment across every local government area in Nigeria, who has also failed during those experiments, as well as succeeded. So, converting that knowledge gained for the benefit of Nigeria and the world was very easy; for example when I went to Continued on page 29

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Liquid Telecom Renews Agreement with Eutelsat Emma Okonji Liquid Telecom, Africa’s telecoms group, has renewed and expanded its Ku band capacity agreement on Eutelsat Communications’ EUTELSAT 7B satellite. Under the multi-year, multi transponder agreement, Liquid Telecom will further leverage the unparalleled coverage of

sub-Saharan Africa of the 7° East orbital position to extend its VSAT services. This will provide customers with fast and reliable internet access, even in the most remote corners of the region. Commenting on the renewed agreement, the Chief Commercial Officer of Eutelsat, Philippe Oliva, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to take the partnership between Liquid

Telecom and Eutelsat to the next level. By working together to further strengthen our ties, we can ensure that the combination of Eutelsat’s satellite coverages of sub-Saharan Africa and Liquid Telecom’s unrivaled expertise in the VSAT market can deliver the highest possible service levels to Liquid’s customers throughout the continent.” Chief Executive Officer, Liquid

Telecom Satellite Services, Scott Mumford, said: “We are delighted to renew and expand our agreements with Eutelsat, ensuring we can continue to rely on its support and coverage to deliver high-speed, reliable connectivity to existing and future customers, no matter where they are located.” With a global fleet of satellites and associated ground

infrastructure, Eutelsat enables clients across video, data, government, fixed and mobile broadband markets to communicate effectively to their customers, irrespective of their location. Over 6,600 television channels operated by leading media groups are broadcast by Eutelsat to one billion viewers equipped for DTH reception or connected to terrestrial networks.

Akinboro: Increased Investments Can Make Nigeria World’s Food Basket two years what would previously have taken 15 years. I could no longer keep waiting to change lives; I need to do it now.

Liberia, Afghanistan and Togo to replicate the same programme, I knew precisely what to do to help these countries. In a way, you could say other countries are blessed because Nigeria spent money training Bolaji. You confounded Cellulant and later became the Chairman of Voriancorelli Was there a gap that you wanted to ﬁll with the setting up of a new startup? The truth is that I needed to move at the speed of my mind and meet the need of the moment. The human person is basically like water and that water must flow and when water is flowing it has got a river channel. When you have water that must flow very fast, at times, the channel is not very wide or is restricted. In this case, the river of water known as Bolaji needed to flow faster at the speed of his mind and affect more people and doing that required breaking free from any limitations and shackles, and embracing a new vehicle and a better way. VorianCorelli Limited is that instrument that allows me to move at the speed of my mind and the needs of others because millions of farmers need systems that are technology

Akinboro

based, and connects them to markets, while also solving the problem of poverty. So, I just needed to move faster and that is the reason for VorianCorelli Limited. The startup is aimed at helping us achieve in

What are the cardinal objectives of VorianCorelli Limited? There are 23 million households that are in agriculture in Nigeria today. If a household contains four persons on average, then almost 80 million Nigerians are involved in agriculture in one form or another. So you discover that if a large number of people are involved in agriculture, if the market doesn’t work, those people will not succeed. When you try to find out the problem, you discover that at the extreme end, you have the consumers at the household level, at the other end you have the producers who are the farmers, and in between you have processors, logistics, storage site operators and banks in the value chain. But you discover that nobody has tried to connect these people together efficiently and at scale. There is a matching problem, which involves connecting these individuals. It is just the same way Uber connects the driver who has a car and wants to offer rides, to the

passenger who needs a ride very efficiently. So VorianCorelli Limited is solving how you match a farmer, food processor, transporter, consumer, and bank in the agriculture sector efficiently. The breakthrough of this is the validation of the problem and scale because we switched on the VorianCorelli matching app platform four months ago and in those four months that we switched it on, we have moved more than four million kilogram of agricultural commodities on that platform, and we are now at the cusp of bringing the firepower of capital markets to bear on the sector .The problem of leveraging the capital market to transform agriculture is another problem that we are solving. If you begin to treat agriculture the way you treat shares, it will be effective because you are bringing billions of monies into the hands of people, to support farmers that need access to the money in one form or the other. The third success is the fact that for a company that is just five months old, we have already secured our first investors, who is coming into the company at a very nice valuation. So, it goes that our thinking on how to create value is correct.

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 •T H I S D AY

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 • T H I S D AY

IMAGES

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Photo Editor ÌÓÙÎßØ ÔËÖË Email ËÌÓÙÎßØ˛ËÔËÖË̶ÞÒÓÝÎËãÖÓàÏ˛ÍÙ×

L-R: Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Consulate General of the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E), Dr. Abdulla Almandoos; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Special Adviser on SDGs and Lagos Global, Mrs. Solape Hammond during the UAE Consulate General courtesy visit to the Governor’s Office, Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja...recently L-R: President Muhammadu Buhari; Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello and Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari; , during a close door meeting over the suspension of Food dealers Strike at the State, House Abuja....recently STATE HOUSE.

L-R: Secretary, All Progressive Congress (APC) in Enugu State, Chief Robert Eze; Chairperson, APC Contract and Mobilization Committee APC Enugu State, Ngozi Nwankwo; former APC Governorship Aspirant in Enugu State, Mr George Ogharra; and APC Chairman in Enugu State, Dr Ben Nwoye, during the APC registration and revalidation exercise in Unada Community of Igbo-Eze South LGA in Enugu State ...recenty

L-R; : Partner Punuka Attorneys and Solicitors Association, Lucy Ebuzoeme; Head of Lagos Zonal Office of SEC, Mr Stephen Falomo; Partner Punuka Attorneys and Solicitors Association, Ebelechukwu Enedah; and Head of the Operations Directorate of SEC Lagos Zonal Office, Bukola Rufai, during the AGA-AFRICA Virtual Workshop and Conference, in Lagos State ...recently

CENTRE FOR LIBERTY (CFL) CFL 1,2&3. Protest by Centre for Liberty (CFL) group at National Assembly gate in support of the 9th National Assembly in the fight against Fake News and Hate Speeches in Nigeria in Abuja ...recently ENOCK REUBEN L - R : Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire; Executive Director, National Primary Health Care Development Agency, (NPHCDA), Dr Faisal Shuaib; Director General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration (NAFDAC), Prof Moji Adeyeye, Director-General, Nigeria Centre For Disease Control (NCDC) Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, during the weekly State House Ministerial briefing at the Presidential Villa in Abuja....recently GODWIN OMOIGUI

L-R; : Chairman, House of Representatives Committee onTreaties, Protocols and Agreements, Rep. Ossai Nicolas Ossai; Representatives of the Speaker, Rep. Nasiru Daura; and the Clerk of the Committee, Mr Akinyele Olu, during a public hearing on a Bill for An Act to Repeal and Enact Treaties, at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Tuesday

R-L: The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma; the NDDC Interim Administrator, Mr Efiong Akwa; and Imo State Deputy Governor, Prof Placid Njoku, after a courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House, Owerri.

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 • T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 11, 2021

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

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

Implications of Arrival of COVAXbrokered Vaccines in Nigeria Onyebuchi Ezigbo examines the arrival of the COVID-19 vaccines donated by COVAX to Nigeria and its implications for Nigerians at large including strategies for widespread acceptance, storage, and equitable distribution

igeria has finally received the 3.92 millions COVID-19 vaccines donated by COVAX for use in vaccinating frontline health workers and other segements of the society considered strategic and disease burdened. However, the receipt of the first batch of the COVID-19 marks the beginning of a very challenging time for the country. Amidst anxiety and lots of expectations in the land, Emirates Airline plane landed in the country with 3.92’ million doses of Astrazeneca vaccines. As the plane conveying the COVID-19 vaccine into the country touched the ground of the Abuja International Airport at about 11.25 am, the reality dawned on the leadership of the country’s health sector that they are faced with the task of conducting one of biggest vaccination campaign in the nation’s recent history. Apart from highly technical expertise needed in the handling of the vaccines, there are other issues like logistics, distribution, storage, personnel, demand for equitable access in the sharing of the vaccines to states. At the airport to receive the vaccines were members of the Presidential Taskforce on Control COVID-19 and a team of experts from the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) in a brief ceremony to mark the hand over of the consignment of the vaccine to the Nigerian government COVAX officials, Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire pledged that the ministry and the agencies responsible for administering the vaccine will ensure that it’s satisfactorily carried out. As vehicles conveyed the vaccine to its temporary abode at country’s National Strategic Cold Store located the Jabi district in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, arrangements are already being to secure fresh endorsement from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Vaccine Hesitancy One of the immediate challenges that those charged with the roll out of the national vaccination campaign is how to deal with the high level of apathy and lack of acceptance of the vaccine for prevention of COVID-19. Speaking on the arrival of the 3.3 million doses of Astrazeneca vaccines to Nigeria, an expert in infectious disease control, Prof. Olawale Tomori said that government should move quickly to address the issue of vaccine hesitancy. Tomori who was a guest at the Arise Television programme, “The Morning Show” said there is still so much doubt about the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccines. He said that one of things that the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) should do is to find ways in clearing such doubts and letting people know that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. “I think a large number of Nigerians don’t want to hear about vaccines and feel that this should be addressed. Convince the people that this vaccine is effective and the first group of people you vaccinate are the elite. Let’s hold a vaccine rally and first vaccinate these big people and let Nigerians know that yes if these people have taken the vaccine and didn’t die, then we should also take ours,” he said. Tomori said the leadership of various arms of government should be publicly vaccinated by NPHCDA to serve as an example and encouragement for other Nigerians harbouring any doubt. Politics of Vaccine Deployment, Sharing Formula Although the goverment has promised to ensure that every eligible Nigerians are vaccinated and that vaccines doses will be deployed across the country, there is already a brewing agitation over the criteria to be used in sharing by federal government. Even before the arrival of the first batch of

Arrival of COVAX to Nigeria

up preparatory to the receipt of the vaccines. According Shuaib, “now that the vaccines have arrived and we know the numbers, the agency and the Commitee on Vaccine Intervention will meet the governors to work out modalities for the deployment of vaccines.” Also in order to avoid racketeering of the vaccines, federal government has banned private sector procurement and sale of vaccines. Ehanire explained that the measure is for purposes of safe and proper management of the COVID-19 vaccination including dealing with any after effects, that federal government has banned private sector deployment of the vaccines. Barring private sector participation in vaccine deployment implies that government will have to take the responsibility of ensuring that these vaccines are available to all Nigerians who are eligible. Tomori also spoke on the need to ensure sustained flow of the vaccines until every eligible Nigerians get vaccinated. “If we start rolling out these vaccines now, what’s the gurantee that more vaccines will be available in the future. We waited for almost four months before the arrival of this first batch. When is the next batch coming so that there is no stop in the process of vaccine roll. If you start now and in the next three or four months we don’t have more “Going by the assurances given by the Minister of Health that the government has made arrangements for more millions of vaccine doses to arrive the country, one could say that we may get things right after all just as we manage to pull through the one of COVID-19 pandemic.

President Muhammadu Buhari receiving his jab

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo also received the vaccine

vaccines, the issue of allocation of vaccine doses has started generating concerns, especially among state governors. There were some figures already allocated to states as doses of the vaccines to be deployed based of preponderance of COVID-19 cases. Many state governors have criticised the sharing

formula said to emanate from the NPHCDA. But the Executive Director of NPHCDA, Dr. Faisal Shuaib has cleared the air on the matter, saying that decision has not been taken of the issue of allocation of vaccines to various vaccination centre across the states. Shuaib said that figures flying around may be from a draft that was being drawn

Dealing with Likely Agitation by Health Workers Another issue that might spark off crisis as the country prepares to roll out COVID-19 vaccines is the strained relationship among the health workers. If one considers what happened at the on set of COVID-19 pandemic in the country when professionals in the health sector were scrambling for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), then there is a likelihood that sharing limited doses of Astrazeneca vaccines will be problematic. Currently, the number of health workers in the runs into millions, and they are expected to share the first batch vaccine with other prioritised leaders and disease burdened patients.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 11, 2021

NEWS

FERTILITY

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

COVID-19: Onuesoke Foundation Sustains Distribution Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: PCOS Part 2 of Face Masks to Delta Schools Sylvester Idowu ÓØ ËÜÜÓ In continuation of its awareness creation and prevention of the dreaded FQJEFNJD $07*% Onuesoke Foundation has sustained its second phase of distribution of facemasks UP QSJNBSZ TDIPPMT JO %FMUB State. "MTP BT QBSU PG NPWFT to encourage the children’s academic development in the state, the foundation is equally distributing free exercise books in addition to the facemasks. Speaking to newsmen while distributing free face masks and exercise books to primary school pupils of Isoko North -PDBM (PWFSONFOU "SFB PG %FMUB 4UBUF SFDFOUMZ 1SPKFDU Coordinator of Onuesoke Foundation, Mr Steven "HBEBHCB TBJE JO PSEFS to create more awareness about the existence of the ESFBEFE $07*% EJTFBTF JO schools and to help prevent its spread among children, the foundation had deemed

it necessary to extend its FBSMJFS $07*% BXBSFOFTT campaign to schools in the state. %FTDSJCJOH UIF GPVOEBUJPO T distribution of facemasks and exercise books to schools as ‘Phase II CoWJE "XBSFOFTT $SFBUJPO UIF 1SPKFDU $PPSEJOBUPS stated that beside the distribution of facemasks to schools earlier this year, it had equally distributed numerous exercise books to school children in order to encourage their academic development. He said as at on Friday, the foundation had already distributed facemasks and exercise books to Imo and Iwride Primary Schools in Isoko North Local GovernNFOU "SFB PG %FMUB 4UBUF adding that the exercise will take them to other schools. i)FSF BU 0OVFTPLF 'PVOEBtion, we exist for humanity even as we trust God to help us reach out to the whole world by leaving no stone unturned in protection of

human lives and educational EFWFMPQNFOU PG PVS DIJMESFO u he stated. "HBEBHCB SFDBMMFE UIBU in order to save lives, the foundation had earlier embarked on three weeks sensitisation campaign aimed at inculcating a high sense of awareness among rural dwellers to promote a clean, safe and healthy culture as a way of mitigating against the spread of the deadly $07*% QBOEFNJD He said the awareness campaign and distribution of free face masks and sanitisers, which took off from Udu -PDBM (PWFSONFOU "SFB PG %FMUB 4UBUF TBX UIFN HPJOH through rural communities in all the local government BSFBT PG %FMUB 4UBUF "HBEBHCB BEWJTFE i5P curtail the spread of the pandemic, we should clean our hands often by using soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. We should maintain a safe distance, while wearing our GBDF NBTLT JO DSPXEFE BSFBT u

Man Pleads for Financial Assistance after Wife Gives Birth to Quintuplet in Lagos

Mr. Omage Ewanle and Mrs. Foyeke with their quintuplet

Rebecca Ejifoma .S 0NBHF &XBOMF IBT DBMMFE on the federal and the Lagos State governments, NGOs, and wellmeaning Nigerians to come to his aid after his wife, Mrs. Foyeke &XBOMF HBWF CJSUI UP RVJOUVQMFU JO Lagos State University Teaching )PTQJUBM -"465) &XBOMF TBJE IF DPVME be reached on his mobile,

07060813361 or help extended to him through his account, 'JEFMJUZ #BOL 0NBHF &XBOMF The couple, who told THIS%": UIFZ IBE CFFO DIJMEMFTT for six years after marriage, had the babies – three girls and two boys – on Monday January 18, this year. 5IF IVTCBOE TBJE i"GUFS TJY years of marriage and no child,

(PE KVTU CMFTTFE VT XJUI àWF BU once. I am very happy. i* N DBMMJOH PO UIF GFEFSBM -Bgos State and local governments, NGOS, organisations, cooperate bodies and well-meaning Nigerians for the upbringing of our CBCJFT u IF QMFBEFE While mother and the babies IBWF CFFO EJTDIBSHFE &XBOMF desperately looks forward to financial help.

ast week, we started the topic on Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, discussing some of its causes. This week, we shall continue on the causes and then proceed to symptoms, diagnosis and effect on the body. Causes include: Inflammation: Women with PCOS often have increased levels of inflammation in their body. Being overweight can also contribute to inflammation. Studies have linked excess inflammation to higher androgen levels. Hormone imbalance: Many women with PCOS are found to have an imbalance in certain hormones. The exact reason why these hormonal changes occur is not known. It’s been suggested that the problem may start in the ovary itself, in other glands that produce these hormones, or in the part of the brain that controls their production. The changes may also be caused by the resistance to insulin. These changes include: r *ODSFBTFE MFWFMT PG UFTUPTUFSPOF B IPSNPOF often thought of as a male hormone, although all women usually produce small amounts of it. r -PX MFWFMT PG TFY IPSNPOF CJOEJOH globulin (SHBG): a protein in the blood that binds to testosterone and reduces its effect. r )JHI MFWFMT PG MVUFJOJ[JOH IPSNPOF (LH): this stimulates ovulation, but may have an abnormal effect on the ovaries if levels are too high. r *ODSFBTFE MFWFMT PG QSPMBDUJO UIJT DBO CF found only in some women with PCOS. Prolactin is a hormone that stimulates the breast glands to produce milk only in pregnancy. High levels in some women may indicate the presence of polycystic ovaries. Symptoms of PCOS Symptoms tend to be mild at first. You may have only a few symptoms or a lot of them. The most common symptoms are: r "DOF r 8FJHIU HBJO BOE USPVCMF MPTJOH XFJHIU r &YUSB IBJS PO UIF GBDF BOE CPEZ 0GUFO XPNFO get thicker and darker facial hair and more hair on the chest, belly, and back. r 5IJOOJOH IBJS PO UIF TDBMQ r %BSLFOJOH PG TLJO QBSUJDVMBSMZ BMPOH OFDL creases, in the groin, and underneath breasts. r 4LJO UBHT XIJDI BSF TNBMM FYDFTT áBQT PG skin in the armpits or neck area. r *SSFHVMBS QFSJPET 0GUFO XPNFO XJUI 1$04 have fewer than nine periods a year. Some women have no periods. Others have very heavy bleeding. r .BOZ XPNFO XIP IBWF 1$04 IBWF USPVCMF getting pregnant (infertility). r %FQSFTTJPO What Are The Effects Of PCOS On The Body?

Having higher-than-normal androgen levels can affect fertility and other aspect of health Infertility: To get pregnant, you have to ovulate. Women who don’t ovulate regularly don’t release BT NBOZ FHHT UP CF GFSUJMJ[FE 1$04 JT POF PG UIF leading causes of infertility in women. Metabolic syndrome: Up to 80 percent of women with PCOS are overweight or obese. Both obesity and PCOS increase your risk for high blood sugar, IJHI CMPPE QSFTTVSF MPX )%- iHPPEu DIPMFTUFSPM BOE IJHI -%- iCBEu DIPMFTUFSPM 5PHFUIFS UIFTF factors are called metabolic syndrome, and they increase the risk for heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. 4MFFQ "QOFB 5IJT DPOEJUJPO DBVTFT SFQFBUFE pauses in breathing during the night, which interrupt sleep. It is more common in women who are overweight especially if they also have PCOS. The risk for sleep apnea is 5 to 10 times higher in obese women with PCOS than in those without. &OEPNFUSJBM DBODFS %VSJOH PWVMBUJPO UIF VUFSJOF lining sheds. If you don’t ovulate every month, UIF MJOJOH DBO CVJME VQ " UIJDLFOFE VUFSJOF MJOJOH can increase your risk for endometrial cancer. %FQSFTTJPO #PUI IPSNPOBM DIBOHFT BOE TZNQtoms like unwanted hair growth can negatively affect emotions. Many people with PCOS end up experiencing depression and anxiety. \ How is PCOS diagnosed? PCOS in women is typically diagnosed when symptoms like high androgen levels, irregular menstrual cycles and cysts in the ovaries are observed. To further diagnose PCOS and rule out other causes of your symptoms, the doctor may review your medical history and also conduct a physical examination. r 1IZTJDBM FYBN #MPPE QSFTTVSF CPEZ NBTT JOEFY #.* BOE XBJTU TJ[F XJMM CF NFBTVSFE 5IF doctor may examine your skin for extra hair on your face, chest or back, acne, skin discoloration, hair loss or signs of other health conditions (such as an enlarged thyroid gland). r 1FMWJD FYBN " QFMWJD FYBNJOBUJPO XJMM CF used to check for signs of extra male hormones (for example, an enlarged clitoris) and check to see if your ovaries are enlarged or swollen. r 1FMWJD VMUSBTPVOE TPOPHSBN 5IJT UFTU VTFT sound waves to examine your ovaries for cysts and check the endometrium (lining of the uterus or womb). r #MPPE UFTUT #MPPE UFTUT DIFDL ZPVS BOESPHFO hormone levels, sometimes called the male hormones. Other hormones related to other common health problems that can be mistaken for PCOS, such as thyroid disease will be evaluated. Your doctor may also test your cholesterol levels and test you for diabetes TO BE CONTINUED

T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 11, 2021

PERSPECTIVE

IWD 2021 and Protein Deficiency: Women to Save the World Elvis Eromosele Women are the bedrock of society. They, very literally, feed, clothe and inspire the world. It is not far-fetched to see how women are the sinew that holds families and the globe together. In many homes, women make the most important buying decisions, particularly as it relates to what to eat. Women ensure that the world is fed. At every point in time across the world, regardless of the time of day, a woman is shopping for household supplies of food. Every day they struggle with the choices, labour over the cost and agonize over portions. It is between what is available and affordable, quantity and quality, ease of preparation (read convenience) and value. It is a never-ending struggle. The Nigeria Protein Deficiency Report 2019 supports this assertion. The report of the survey, which was designed to empirically determine the current status and dimensions of protein deficiency in Nigeria, sheds light on food consumption patterns among Nigerians. According to the report, “51 per cent of respondents do not have adequate protein-rich foods due largely to high cost.” The report also showed that the fundamental factors determining the necessity of meal items consumed across the country are availability (79%) and affordability (68%). It also reveals something that most Nigerians would probably expect, that carbohydrates are the most consumed food amongst Nigerians. Rice

topped the list with 91%, closely followed by ‘swallows’ (such as eba, amala, fufu, pounded yam, etc.) at 83%. 58% of sampled institutional providers (dieticians and nutritionists) insisted that the protein intake of Nigerians is generally quite insufficient. The challenge is that when people do not get adequate amounts of protein from their diet, it leads to protein deficiency. Protein deficiency is today a major cause of malnutrition, especially among children. In Nigeria, several reports indicate that protein deficiency poses not only a major health problem but also an economic and social burden. It is the most important risk factor for illness and death, with millions of pregnant women and young children particularly affected. It is time to go on the offensive in the fight against protein deficiency. It is time to recruit the most important buying decision-maker in the home. To curb the incidences of protein deficiency in Nigeria, women must become more involved in the battle. They already do so much. They are heroes without capes. But women can ensure that the country, nay the world, is fed right. To involve women to do more, they must be educated and empowered. Women empowerment, undoubtedly, benefits the nation, it leads to an improvement in the nutritional status of families, households and the nation at large. Yes, women empowerment will reduce poverty, enrich and boost the nutritional status and enhance national

economic performance. Women empowerment is a win-win in every way. As domestic implementers in the homes, the choices women make, many times, determine the nutrition status of their families. That choice, however, is premised on several factors, including literacy, income and available food options. This is precisely why women education and empowerment are key and doubly important.

It seeks to create massive nationwide awareness of Nigeria’s protein deficiency situation to help mitigate occurrences everywhere in the country, with particular emphasis on soy as a cost-effective source of protein. In the fight against protein deficiency, women are the world’s secret weapon. Women will ensure that protein deficiency is vanquished in Nigeria, one family at a time.

The best time to start is today. Of course, there are also cultural issues. With over 250 ethnic groups in Nigeria, it is not surprising that there are as many food cultures. There are places where children can’t eat eggs so as not to become spoilt. In others, women cannot eat gizzards when there is a man present. There are several more just as bad and many others that are worse. Invariably, it would require a massive culture shift to eliminate the various cultural practices that lead to malnutrition and protein deficiency in Nigeria. Massive sensitization at the community level would be a great way to start. This should take into cognizance existing knowledge, attitudes and practices within the communities. It would mean being willing to confront the communities with the realities, dangers and causes of malnutrition. It would involve awareness campaigns focused on the benefits of protein nutrient-rich meals. The Nigeria Protein Deficiency Awareness campaign, aka Protein Challenge, is already working in this space.

Women will save the world. Every time is a good time to celebrate women. The month of March is particularly important because of the commemoration of International Women’s Day. This is a day set aside specifically to celebrate women. This year especially more so as women again continue to contribute immensely to efforts to save the world. The UN Women announced that the theme for International Women’s Day, 2021 (IWD 2021) is “Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world.” The theme celebrates the tremendous efforts by women and girls around the world in shaping a more equal future and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Women make up at least half the world’s population. Their contribution cannot be understated. Their celebration must be always on. Happy International Women’s Day 2021! t &SPNPTFMF JT B $PSQPSBUF $PNNVOJDBUJPO QSPGFTTJPOBM BOE QVCMJD BGGBJST BOBMZTU

OAP Maryam Musa Seeks N12m for Kidney Transplant Rebecca Ejifoma Maryam Adaeze Musa, a 24-year-old 400-level English student of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), has appealed to Nigerians, philanthropists, and organisations for financial assistance to fund an urgent kidney transplant costing N12m. Maryam, an aspiring OnAir Personality (OAP), was diagnosed with End-Stage Kidney failure in 2019. Currently, she is undergoing dialysis every three days at the cost of N45,000 per session including the cost of drugs. While trying to raise funds for the kidney transplant, Maryam still has to do dialysis twice a week which costs N90,000. Maryam’s health challenges began when she was

only 10, having been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes also known as juvenile-onset diabetes. She managed the condition until 2019 when her kidney functions failed completely. The first child of her parents and also the breadwinner, before her illness, Maryam was combining working with schooling to help her mother, a widow, and her younger siblings. At age 13, she lost her father and her widowed mother, Nneka Musa, a petty trader, has been unable to raise money for the urgently required kidney transplant to keep her alive. Nneka is, therefore, imploring well-meaning and kind-hearted Nigerians, philanthropists, state governors, corporate organisations and non-governmental organisations to intervene

Maryam

and donate generously to enable her daughter to access

the urgently needed kidney transplant.

is much; she contends with excruciating pain often, prompting her to be in and out of hospital frequently. “Undergoing the transplant will enable her to overcome the current pain and discomfort occasioned by her present condition. Please help save Maryam’s life,” she appealed. Doctors at Avon Hospital, where Maryam accesses dialysis treatment twice weekly, cautioned that dialysis is only a temporary treatment, saying the definitive therapy for kidney failure is the kidney transplant for which she is seeking financial assistance. Please donate what you can to #savemaryam; nothing is too small. If you are touched to assist, please pay into Access Bank 0104406217 Musa Maryam Adaeze. For more information, “The ordeal Maryam faces please call Maryam on as a result of kidney failure 08131959930 or 08122777058.

Medbury Deploys Technology to Ease COVID-19: NACA Assures Equal Access to HIV-AIDS Services for Women COVID-19 Testing for Individuals, Corporates Onyebuchi Ezigbo ÓØ ÌßÔË The National Agency for Control of AIDS (NACA) has said that it will continue to push for equality in access to HIV services, empowerment and employment opportunities for women and adolescent girls during the pandemic. The Director General of NACA, Dr Gambo Aliyu stated that ‘six out 10 persons living with HIV in Nigeria are females. He also said that young women aged 20-24 in Nigeria are three times more likely to be living with HIV than men of the same age. “In this group, HIV prevalence was 1.3 per cent compared to 0.4 per cent in men,” he said. The NACA DG, stated this in a message at this

year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) also known as the International Working Women’s Day or United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace. Aliyu said the indices on HIV prevalence should reinforce why NACA “must continue to push for equality in access to HIV and COVID-19 services, empowerments and employment opportunities for women and adolescent girls as this will bring about achieving gender equality and ensuring no woman is left behind’’. The Women Day is celebrated every year on March 8 throughout the world in order to focus on the achievements and contributions of women in society. It is an opportunity to

acknowledge the role of mothers, sisters and daughters in the economic, political and social development of our communities and express love and appreciation to them. The theme for 2021 International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8 is ‘’Women in leadership; Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world’’. Aliyu said the theme celebrates the tremendous effort of women and girls around the world in shaping a more equal future and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. According to him, women are playing a vital role in the fight against the HIV pandemic here in Nigeria and around the world, even amid COVID-19, adding that they remain a force to reckon with in every sphere of life.

Ugo Aliogo Medbury Medical Services, an accredited COVID-19 disease testing centre, has deployed technology to ease COVID-19 testing for individuals and corporate organisations. A statement by the group said after opening testing centres at Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja; Lekki Phase 1, Medbury has deployed technology to ease testing for its clients, and its latest is the use of the Google Playstore, which will be operational soon. The statement further explained that from February 24, COVID-19 testing began at the new facility and residents that visited reportedly enjoyed the service at the facility. The statement also remarked that clients can walk in or drive through and get tested within 15 minutes.

The statement hinted that Medbury built a track record in delivering excellence, “the new centre is clean, wellorganised with well-trained staff and sample collectors, to ensure extremely fast service with nil waiting time.” The Managing Director, Medbury Medicals, said: “We will continue to improve our services with the use of feedback from our clients and technology to deliver superb customer experience for our clients. “This will also encourage more people to test and bridge the current gap in the population of Nigerians that have tested for COVID-19. “Results of tests taken at Medbury are delivered next day through e-mail, though clients are advised to plan for results within 48 hours. “In June 2020, Lagos State

accredited seven private laboratories to boost its testing capacity and three private hospitals for case management. Facilities accredited alongside Medbury included Total Medical Services, Synlab, 54gene, Biologix Medical Services, 02 Medical Services and Clina Lancent Laboratory. “For travellers, results from Medbury can be confirmed on the verification platform designed by Medbury to curb spread and use of fake test results. This is being used by airlines, embassies and other stakeholders to authenticate results taken at all Medbury. “This effort has drastically reduced the incidence of fake COVID-19 test results, as all results by Medbury can be easily confirmed on the Medbury website or through the Medbury lab App that can be downloaded on Google Playstore in the coming days.”

T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 11, 2021

PERSPECTIVE

With Vaccine Deliveries to Accra, Abidjan, Abuja and Dakar, the Race for Equity Begins Dr. Solomon Zewdu On February 24, 600,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine arrived in Accra, Ghana. Two days later, another 504,000 doses arrived in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. On Tuesday, 3.92 million vaccine doses arrived in Abuja, Nigeria and a further 324,000 arrived in Dakar, Senegal the following day. These were the first international deliveries of COVID-19 vaccine through the COVAX Facility, and—with the first doses administered in both countries just days later—the first steps in what will be the largest immunization campaign in world history. Hopefully, these milestones represent a turning point in the world’s response to the pandemic. A wide-ranging coalition of international public health organizations and other partners, COVAX aims to ensure that every nation, regardless of resources, gets the vaccines needed to protect its people from this devastating virus. A large part of the developing world, including most of Africa, has too often been forced to wait for lifesaving innovations and treatments. Because of this chronic lack of equitable access, disease and poverty linger. COVAX was created at the start of the pandemic to mitigate these inequities. It plans to deliver 2 billion vaccine doses all over the world in 2021, including 1.3 billion to low- and middle-income countries. This ambitious international campaign is especially crucial given the deep disparities that have marked COVID-19 vaccine distribution so far. Until very recently, the world’s richest nations had received almost all of the vaccine supply. As a result, even as some high-income nations have already immunized more than 20% of their population with at least one dose, only a few African countries have reached even 1 in 1,000 people. It is frankly impossible to defeat the virus if these disparities persist. If everyone doesn’t have the chance to get immunized, the world economy could lose as much as US$9.2 trillion and twice as many people could perish needlessly. Nonetheless, these first introductions in Accra, Abidjan, Abuja and Dakar coming less than three months after COVID-19 vaccines were first introduced in high-income nations represents proof that pooling resources can help shorten the time it takes to get vaccines to lower-income countries after they are developed. Before Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, launched the Pneumococcal Advance Market Commitment in 2009, for example, it could take up to 15 years for life-saving vaccines to reach lower-income countries. Through donor commitments, this innovative funding mechanism has dramatically increased the speed with which vaccines reached lower-income countries and has helped 60 lower-income countries introduce pneumonia vaccines at more affordable prices. Collaborations like COVAX and its Advance Market Commitment build on these successes and are similarly helping to narrow the gap in access to COVID-19 vaccines. To keep closing this deadly gap, however, additional resources from governments, donors, and the private sector will be needed. The commitment by G7 nations in mid-February to double COVAX

Zewdu

funding is an excellent start, but more will be required to immunize everyone. With that in mind, we must recognize that vaccines arriving at international airports— while an important and laudable logistical feat—is only the first step. The job will not be done until these vaccines get into people’s arms. Even some of the world’s wealthiest nations, with access to substantially more doses and with expensive health systems, have struggled with their vaccination campaigns, and the job could be exponentially harder in countries with far fewer doses and public health resources. That is why governments and public health organizations across Africa are working overtime to make sure their health care systems and workers are ready to get these vaccines moving. Many African countries have expertise in conducting rapid and effective mass vaccination campaigns, often immunizing millions of people in a single week. In 2016, for example,

41,000 health workers and volunteers were recruited and trained to administer yellow fever vaccines to 14 million people in Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in just 10 days. The following year, Nigeria—despite political conflict—was able to immunize 4.7 million children against measles in only two weeks. And even amid the pandemic, Ethiopia was able to vaccinate 13 million children against measles and nearly 2 million people against cholera, thus averting the catastrophic consequences of missed vaccination campaigns. These countries and many others in Africa already know firsthand what a successful mass vaccination campaign takes and have invested in many of the essential components, including detailed planning, real-time communication, building health worker capacity, and, critically, developing public trust in vaccines. Some nations, such as the DRC, even have experience with the ultracold temperatures

needed for some COVID-19 vaccines, due to their efforts to inoculate more than 300,000 people against Ebola. These experiences offer key lessons for vaccine delivery that the rest of the world can benefit from and will assuredly be helpful as African nations work to immunize their citizens against COVID-19. It will take enormous effort, resources, and dedication from everyone—both in Africa and around the world—to scale up vaccine delivery to the levels that are needed. Getting vaccines to Accra, Abidjan, and cities all over the planet is a vital first step in defeating this pandemic. Now the real test of whether we can achieve vaccine equity begins. t%S ;FXEV JT UIF #JMM .FMJOEB (BUFT 'PVOEBUJPO T EFQVUZ EJSFDUPS GPS IFBMUI JO "GSJDB BOE JUT "GSJDB $07*% SFTQPOTF DPPSEJOBUPS

Abayomi Calls for Women Education against Endometriosis Martins Ifijeh The Managing Director, Nordica Fertility Centre, Dr. Abayomi Ajayi has called for massive enlightenment of women against endometriosis, saying this will help reduce the incidence of the condition in Nigeria. Speaking at a media briefing recently, Ajayi said every Nigerian woman deserves to know about the health condition and how to manage it, adding that

Nigeria’s foremost group advocating against the condition, the Endometriosis Support Group of Nigeria (ESGN), was willing to roll out massive enlightenment programmes against it. He said: “This condition affects about 10 to 15 per cent of women, amounting to over 200 million between the reproductive age group of 11 to 50 years, worldwide. “It is believed to be the cause of infertility in about 30 to 40 per cent of couples

with fertility problems in Nigeria. The condition has no cure. ‘’The impact of endometriosis on the individual, family, business and the nation is therefore of grave importance to us. “Since 2005, the ESGN has carried out various advocacy initiatives in Nigeria and continues to push for the enlightenment of this condition; committed to research that will bring about a cure of the condition and proper

training of medical personnel to properly diagnose of the condition.” Speaking on ESGN activities for this year, Ajayi said among other things, there shall be the Annual ESGN Endometriosis Essay Competition for Secondary School Students, aimed at creating awareness among adolescents by encouraging students to research and write essays on various topics related to endometriosis and the topic for this year’s

ESGN Endometriosis Essay competition is “Challenges of Living with Endometriosis” which will run till March 5, 2021.” He said The Sisters’ Converge Video Entry into the World Endo March 2021 event held in Nigeria through the ESGN, was another activity slated for this year, adding that the ESGN is a member of the global awareness coalition called World Endo March. This year, the managing director said the global body

has requested that each member country present a 30-minute video entry which will be showcased on Friday, March 26, 2021 to a global audience. Other activities, according to Ajayi, are the Sisters’ Converge, an online Endometriosis Conversation event, slated for March 8, 2021, in commemoration of the International Women’s Day and the African Endometriosis Awareness Foundation Annual Conference.

T H I S D AY ˾ ͯͯ˜ 2021

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

UBA Group MD Explains Conservative Dividend Payout Goddy Egene The Group Managing Director/ CEO of United Bank for Africa Plc, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka, has said the bank reduced its dividend payment so as to strengthen its capacity and deliver better performance now and the near term. Although UBA recorded a growth of over 27 per cent in profit for the year ended December 31, it reduced its dividend payout from 100 kobo in 2019 to 52 kobo in 2020. But speaking during a conference call on the results, Uzoka said the decision to pay a lower dividend was informed by the need to build the right capacity that would enable the pan-African financial institute to be stronger. “Yes we did not pay the kind

of dividend that was expected but we are building for the future because no one knows what can happen. We have done 73 years as one of the oldest and agile franchises on our continent. “We have experience in running businesses not just in Nigeria but all the over the continent and the world. “We have seen different challenges and we have experienced many things, and as they say, experience is the best teacher. So we decided to take a conservative stance on dividend payout. “What this means is that we have decided to strengthen our capacity to weather any unforeseen development that will come out. We have done our stimulation to determine the kind of capacity we want to base on a crystal clear focus

of our goals. We know exactly what we want to achieve in the current year and in the mid-term and we decided to make sure that we build the right capacity,” he said. Uzoka assured stakeholder that UBA has a very bright future and would ensure it delivers good returns on investments. According to him, on return on average asset, the bank guided at 1.6 per cent for 2020 but delivered 1.7 per cent, noting that this could go up to 1.8 per cent. He said: “For our capital adequacy ratio, we guided at 25 per cent, we got 23.7 per cent and we can go back to 25 per cent in 2021. And gross income ratio outside of impairment, we guided at 65 per cent we got 61.9 per cent and we think we can reach 60 per cent.”

Sterling Bank Assures Cross River on Health Insurance Scheme Nume Ekeghe Sterling Bank Plc has assured the Cross River State Government of its continued support and partnership in the implementation of the state’s Health Insurance Scheme tagged ‘Ayade Care.’ The state government recently launched the scheme in Calabar, the state capital, as part of an effort to achieve health insurance cover for vulnerable citizens in the state. Speaking at the launch, Divisional Head, Education and Health Sectors, Sterling Bank, Mr. Obinna Ukachukwu, said the state’s pragmatic approach to the issue of health insurance was commendable as it differs

markedly in approach from the norm experienced in the execution of most public service projects. Ukachukwu said he was elated that Ayade, who is fondly referred to as a, ‘digital governor,’ is now working on health insurance scheme in partnership with Sterling Bank - the digital bank. He stated: “Health is the first pillar of the HEART strategy of Sterling bank. That is why we are very passionate about the sector; especially because of its importance to the development of the economy and to the well-being of Nigerians.” The Divisional Head added that the health sector is one of the five key sectors which the

bank has focused investments on for many years now, adding that the sectors are collectively referred to as the HEART sectors. HEART stands for Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewal Energy and Transportation. He noted that the Cross River Health Insurance Scheme will be the most digitally enabled state health insurance programme in the country as it is running on the internationally proven Rx Health technology platform, which has been made possible through the partnership of the state with a technology consortia that is led by ICT Health Solutions Limited and Sterling Bank Plc as the scheme enabler.

CONVINCE Africa Brainstorm on Financing Covid-19 Vaccine Delivery CONVINCE Africa has set plans in motion to hold talks on financing the delivery of COVID-19 vaccines across the continent These and other pressing issues where discussed at the first Africa-led dialogue held recently, when African organisations and key global players gathered to strategise and fashion out solutions with African leaders. The high-level meeting convened by CONVINCE Africa and Wilton Park , brought together Ministers of Finance and Health with leaders of key multilateral institutions and senior representatives from the donor community to take a whole-of-Africa led approach to financing access, delivery and uptake for COVID-19 vaccines for the African continent. Key figures agreed collectively agreed that there was

a moral imperative to support equitable access to vaccines for African states. According to a statement, “with almost four million cases across the continent and emerging new variants posing greater risk of transmission, never before has there been a greater need for such global solidarity to end the pandemic.” It added: “We must also recognise that these vaccines need to reach the arms of people living right across the continent, to the last mile.” “A complex arrangement of logistics and health systems infrastructure needs to be financed and organised effectively to deliver the vaccines to those who need it, including those in humanitarian and crisis situations.cept the vaccine. “To build a healthier, safe and more prosperous Africa is what we all want. It is an

investment that delivers a rich reward,” Director-General, World Health Organisation, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, was quoted to have said. Minister of Health for South Africa, Dr. Zwelini Mkhize, made an opening statement on behalf of the President of South Africa HE Cyril Ramaphosa, saying that this pandemic requires an all-Africa approach, where social solidarity, collaboration and joint strategies will lead to benefits for all. Director of Africa CDC, Dr John Nkengasong, announced a new initiative, the African Vaccine Delivery Alliance (AVDA), a cross-sectoral governmental coalition whose mission is to coordinate and catalyse support for African countries to accelerate efforts to acquire vaccines and get them to people in communities where they are most needed.

Ibom Air Wins ‘Airline of the Year’Award

Uzoka

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 ˜ ͷ ͰͮͰͯ Pcl has congratulated Ibom Air on receiving the award for Airline of the Year (Nigeria) in 2020.The award was presented to the airline recently, at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, by the CEO of African Travel Market (Akwaaba) and Publisher ATQnews, Ikechi Uko.According to a statement, the award was

received by the Chief Executive Officer of the airline, Captain Mfon Udom and the Chief Operating Officer, George Uriesi. In the light of this, the Head of Advisory, People Transformation at pcl, Joshua Ademuwagun, stated that, “If you are looking for an organisation that has great leadership and is committed to

its vision and mission, then you are looking at Ibom Air.“The people display a lot of positive energy and commitment. For Ibom Air, schedule reliability, on-time departures and excellent service delivery isn’t just a mantra, but a way of life. It is indeed exciting to be part of this Nigerian success story.”

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $66.38 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $68.17 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

T H I S D AY ˾ ͯͯ˜ ͰͮͰͯ

Stock Market Rebounds on Bargain Hunting in Bellwethers Goddy Egene The stock market witnessed a rebound yesterday following barging hunting in the shares of Dangote Cement Plc, Nestle Nigeria Plc and Nigerian Breweries Plc. Consequently, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index (ASI) appreciated by 0.6 per cent to close at 38,931.25. Market capitalisation added N127.9 billion to be at N20.4 trillion. The

market has been experiencing pullbacks as investors adopted cautions trading in reaction to mixed corporate earnings and gradual upticks in fixed income yields. Analysts Cordros Securities had on Monday lowered their projected return for the equities market as the fixed income securities market yields began. The analysts had estimated their base case for the equities to be 12.8 per cent. But they

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

explained that following the earlier than expected reversal in fixed income yields, their views on the timing of some of their key factors to watch had changed. “Consequently, we revise our base case estimate for market return in 2021 downwards to 8.8 per cent (previously: +12.8 per cent). Over the rest of first half of 2021 (H1-21), we believe the interplay between corporate actions and yield

S E C U R I T I E S

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

elevation in the fixed income (FI) market will continue to shape market performance. As a result, we expect a choppy market, albeit with a bearish bias, as investors remain increasingly reluctant to leave gains in the market,” they said. And after declining on Tuesday, the market returned to the positive territory yesterday, buoyed by gains posted by bellwethers such as Dangote

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

Cement Plc, Nestle Nigeria Plc and Nigerian Breweries Plc. In all, 23 stocks appreciated compared same number of stocks that depreciated. Morison Industries Plc led the price gainers with 9.7 per cent, trailed by Champion Breweries Plc with 8.9 per cent. Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Plc chalked up 8.8 per cent, just as Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc garnered 7.6 per cent. NAHCO Plc and Wema Bank

O F

Plc went up by6.6 per cent and 6.5 per cent respectively, just as May & Baker Nigeria Plc and Oando Plc gained 6.5 per cent and 5.6 per cent in that order. Conversely, Consolidated Hallmark Insurance Plc led the price losers with 10 per cent, trailed by Eterna Plc with 9.9 per cent. Conoil Plc and Northern Nigerian Flour Mills Plc shed 9.7 per cent and 9.6 per cent respectively.

1 0 / 0 3 / 2 0 2 1 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

˾ THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

Thursday, March 11, 2021 Thisday Afrinvest 40 Index Declined 3bps dŚĞ dŚŝƐĚĂǇ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ /ŶĚĞǆ ĨĞůů ϯďƉƐ ƚŽ ƐĞƩůĞ Ăƚ

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

1,738.95 points. This was on the back of price declines in GUARANTY (-1.0%), UBA (-2.8%) and FBNH (-2.8%). These

Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index

ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĐƵŵƵůĂƟǀĞůǇ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ĨŽƌ ϭϯ͘ϲй ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŝŶĚĞǆ͘

ĂƌŐĂŝŶ ,ƵŶƟŶŐ ƌŝǀĞƐ WŽƐŝƟǀĞ WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ͘͘͘ ^/ ƵƉ

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40

1,738.95

-0.03%

18.5%

73.9%

17.9%

3.5%

930.00

0.0%

34.7%

9.2%

7.9%

2.8%

74.75

0.0%

11.0%

-3.4%

19.1%

11.2%

30.70

-1.0%

9.0%

-5.1%

27.9%

4.7%

Ϭ͘ϲй dŚĞ ĚŽŵĞƐƟĐ ĞƋƵŝƟĞƐ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ƉŽƐƚĞĚ Ă ƉŽƐŝƟǀĞ ƉĞƌĨŽƌͲ

3 Guaranty Trust Bank PLC 4 Zenith Bank PLC

ϲϯďƉƐ ƚŽ ϯϴ͕ϵϯϭ͘Ϯϱ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ďĂƌŐĂŝŶ ŚƵŶƟŶŐ in DANGCEM ;нϯ͘ϲйͿ͕ E ^d> (+1.9%) and NIGERIAN

Price Change Index to Date

Ticker

1 Airtel Africa PLC 2 BUA Cement Plc

mance at the close of trade as the benchmark index rose

Price Previous Current Change Price YTD Weighting Change

Current Price

5 Dangote Cement PLC 6 MTN Nigeria Communications PLC 7 Nestle Nigeria PLC 8 Lafarge Africa PLC 9 Access Bank PLC

ROE

ROA

P/E

P/BV

4.9x

Divindend Earnings Yield Yield

0.5x

5.8%

ot Applicable

1.3%

8.0%

35.9x

6.8x

2.6%

2.8%

4.5x

1.2x

9.0%

22.5% 33.7%

21.75

0.0%

6.0%

-12.3%

22.4%

3.1%

3.0x

0.6x

13.8%

228.00

3.6%

5.7%

-6.9%

30.8%

14.6%

15.3x

4.8x

7.0%

6.6%

160.00

0.0%

4.6%

-5.8%

189.4%

11.9%

16.0x

27.7x

5.9%

6.3%

1,375.00

1.9%

3.7%

-8.6%

104.8%

17.8%

27.8x

37.2x

5.1%

3.6%

22.00

0.0%

3.5%

4.5%

6.5%

4.6%

15.3x

1.0x

4.5%

6.5%

7.80

0.6%

2.6%

-7.7%

16.8%

1.5%

2.5x

0.4x

8.3%

39.5%

Z t Z/ ^ (+1.0%). As a result, YTD loss improved to -

10 United Bank for Africa PLC 11 FBN Holdings Plc

7.00

-2.8%

2.2%

-19.1%

13.9%

1.3%

2.2x

0.4x

7.3%

45.7%

7.05

-2.8%

2.4%

-1.4%

11.2%

1.1%

3.9x

0.3x

5.4%

25.4%

ϯ͘ϯй ĂŶĚ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝƐĂƟŽŶ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ďǇ േ127.9bn

12 Nigerian Brew eries PLC 13 Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC

50.00

1.0%

1.9%

-10.7%

4.5%

1.8%

54.2x

2.5x

1.9%

1.8%

40.00

0.0%

1.8%

-9.2%

24.3%

3.7%

5.3x

1.2x

5.8%

18.8%

4.55

-9.0%

1.2%

-23.5%

-26.3%

-6.2%

27.00

0.0%

1.1%

3.8%

to േϮϬ͘ϰƚŶ͘ dƌĂĚŝŶŐ ĂĐƟǀŝƚǇ ǁĂŶĞĚ ĂƐ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ĂŶĚ ǀĂůƵĞ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ ďǇ ϯϰ͘ϭй ĂŶĚ ϯϭ͘Ϭй ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůǇ ƚŽ ϯϮϯ͘Ϯŵ units and േϰ͘ϲďŶ͘ dŚĞ ŵŽƐƚ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ďǇ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ǁĞƌĞ UBA (74.8m units), FBNH ;ϲϱ͘ϰŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ and GUARANTY (34.3m units) while GUARANTY (േ1.1bn), E ^Ͳ d> (േϲϯϱ͘ϲŵͿ ĂŶĚ UBA (േ523.4m) led by value.

14 International Brew eries PLC 15 Flour Mills of Nigeria 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 23 Sterling Bank PLC 24 NASCON Allied Industries PLC 25 Transnational Corp of Nigeria

DŝǆĞĚ ^ĞĐƚŽƌ WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ

26 Presco PLC 27 Unilever Nigeria PLC

Performance across sectors was mixed as 3 ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ϲ ŝŶĚŝͲ

28 PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC 29 United Capital PLC

ĐĞƐ ƵŶĚĞƌ ŽƵƌ ĐŽǀĞƌĂŐĞ ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ ŐĂŝŶƐ͘ dŚĞ /ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚĞǆ ǁĂƐ ƚŚĞ ƚŽƉ ŐĂŝŶĞƌ͕ ƵƉ ϭ͘ϳй ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ďĂƌŐĂŝŶ ŚƵŶƟŶŐ ŝŶ DANGCEM ;нϯ͘ϲйͿ͘ ^ŝŵŝůĂƌůǇ͕ ƚŚĞ ŽŶƐƵŵĞƌ 'ŽŽĚƐ ĂŶĚ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ƌŽƐĞ Ϭ͘ϰй ĂŶĚ Ϭ͘Ϯй ƌĞƐƉĞĐͲ ƟǀĞůǇ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ E ^d> (+1.9%), NI' Z/ E Z t Z/ ^ (+1.0%), D E^ Z (+1.0%) and t W/ ;нϮ͘ϭйͿ͘ ŽŶǀĞƌƐĞůǇ͕ ƚŚĞ ĂŶŬŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ Kŝů Θ 'ĂƐ

30 Guinness Nigeria PLC 31 Custodian and Allied Insurance 32 AIICO Insurance PLC 33 Total Nigeria PLC 34 Julius Berger Nigeria PLC 35 Wema Bank PLC 36 Union Bank of Nigeria PLC 37 Oando PLC 38 Notore Chemical Industries Ltd 39 Beta Glass PLC 40 Transcorp Hotels Plc

ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ůŽƐƚ Ϭ͘ϯй ĂŶĚ ϯďƉƐ ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůǇ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ƉƌŽĮƚƚĂŬŝŶŐ ŝŶ GUARANTY (-1.0%), FBNH (-2.8%), KEK/> (9.8%) and ETERNA (-9.9%). Lastly, the AFR-/ d ŝŶĚĞǆ ĐůŽƐĞĚ ŇĂƚ͘

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ^ƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶƐ /ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ĂƐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďǇ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ ;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ƌĂƟŽͿ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶĞĚ ƚŽ ϭ͘ϭǆ ĨƌŽŵ ƚŚĞ

NEIMETH ;нϴ͘ϵйͿ ǁĞƌĞ ƚŚĞ ƚŽƉ ŐĂŝŶĞƌƐ ǁŚŝůĞ ,/W> (10.0%), ETERNA (-9.9%) and KEK/> (-9.8%) were the top ůŽƐĞƌƐ͘ DŽǀŝŶŐ ĨŽƌǁĂƌĚ͕ ǁĞ ĞǆƉĞĐƚ ƚŚĞ ŽǀĞƌĂůů ďĞĂƌŝƐŚ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ƚŽ ďĞ ƐƵƐƚĂŝŶĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ͘ ,ŽǁĞǀĞƌ͕ ƚŚĞƌĞ ĂƌĞ ŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƟĞƐ ĨŽƌ ďĂƌŐĂŝŶ ŚƵŶƟŶŐ ĂŵŝĚ ĐŚĞĂƉ ĂƩƌĂĐͲ ƟǀĞ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ͘

4.9% 7.3%

-15.8%

4.0%

8.1%

9.1%

41.7%

8.3%

13.5%

540.00

0.0%

1.4%

34.2%

0.0%

0.8%

0.0%

16.4%

7.6%

12.4x

1.9x

93.00

0.0%

0.8%

2.2%

24.6%

16.0%

11.3x

2.6x

2.20

0.9%

0.6%

-12.7%

10.5%

1.1%

2.4x

0.2x

8.9%

5.00

0.0%

0.6%

-16.7%

0.6%

0.0%

37.2x

0.2x

18.00

-1.4%

0.6%

2.3%

25.5%

12.6%

7.4x

1.8x

2.90

-0.3%

0.5%

-12.9%

10.3%

1.2%

2.8x

0.1x

4.8%

36.3%

1.52

4.8%

0.3%

-25.5%

9.2%

0.9%

3.8x

0.3x

2.0%

26.6%

14.00

0.0%

0.4%

-3.4%

18.4%

5.8%

8.1x

3.0x

2.9%

12.3%

0.87

0.0%

0.3%

-3.3%

-3.5%

-0.8%

0.5x

1.1%

-6.7%

69.00

0.0%

0.3%

-2.7%

18.5%

7.7%

2.2x

2.9%

10.2%

13.25

0.0%

0.2%

-4.7%

-2.4%

-1.6%

1.2x

5.00

-3.8%

0.2%

-5.7%

-12.2%

-5.6%

0.6x

2.0%

-176.7%

4.99

-0.2%

0.2%

5.9%

35.5%

4.2%

1.2x

14.0%

23.10

0.4%

0.3%

21.6%

-17.8%

-9.0%

6.00

0.0%

0.2%

2.6%

13.9%

4.8%

3.0x

0.8x

1.17

-2.5%

0.2%

3.5%

21.4%

3.3%

2.6x

0.5x

142.00

0.0%

0.2%

9.2%

17.70

0.0%

0.1%

-0.6%

3.2%

0.4%

20.7x

0.6x

9.4%

4.8%

0.65

6.6%

0.1%

-5.8%

6.8%

0.5%

3.2x

0.4x

6.2%

31.7%

0.0%

4.8%

0.1%

-17.8%

14.5%

2.6%

1.3x

0.2x

8.0x

0.7x

3.04

3.8x

-2.1%

0.7x 9.2%

62.50

0.0%

0.1%

0.0%

-29.7%

-8.5%

0.0%

0.1%

-2.5%

9.4%

6.4%

3.25

0.0%

-9.7%

33.2% 38.0%

5.1%

6.0x

54.00

26.2% -28.1%

21.5x

-100.0% -17.8%

9.8x

2.7%

4.9%

4.7%

16.7% 76.4%

1.8x

-18.4% 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

P ric e C hg %

Vo lum e

P ric e C hg %

M OR ISON

0.79

9.7%

UB A

74.8

-2.8%

C H A M P ION

2.20

8.9%

FB NH

65.4

-2.8%

N EIM ET H

2.09

8.9%

GUA R A N T Y

34.3

-1.0%

M B EN EF IT

0.42

7.7%

SOVR EN IN S

34.2

3.7%

NA HCO

2.25

6.6%

A C C ESS

13.5

0.6%

6.6%

Z EN IT H B A N K

12.1

0.0%

10.4

-6.4%

T ic k er

WEM A B A N K

0.65

T ic k er

M A YB A KER

3.96

5.6%

UA C -P R OP

ST ER LN B A N K

1.52

4.8%

9.5

1.0%

OA N D O

3.04

4.8%

LIVEST OC K

8.5

-9.6%

J A IZ B A N K

0.68

4.6%

M A N SA R D

7.1

1.0%

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 IP LC

P ric e 0.27

ET ER N A

4.62

C ON OIL

P ric e C hg % -10.0%

T ic k er

Value

P ric e C hg %

GUA R A N T Y

1064.2

-1.0%

635.6

1.9%

-9.9%

N EST LE

17.05

-9.8%

UB A

523.4

-2.8%

NNFM

5.15

-9.6%

D A N GC EM

495.7

3.6%

LIVEST OC K

1.70

-9.6%

475.5

1.0%

IN T B R EW

4.55

-9.0%

FB NH

467.8

-2.8%

1.61

-8.0%

SEP LA T

445.7

0.0%

265.0

0.0%

104.8

0.6%

64.1

0.4%

NP FM CRFB K B ER GER

6.05

-7.6%

Z EN IT H B A N K

GLA XOSM IT H

6.20

-7.5%

A C C ESS

-6.7%

GUIN N ESS

F T N C OC OA

Afrinvest West Africa Limited

-38.2%

0.7x

228.00

T o p 10 G a i n e r s

Ϭ͘ϲǆ ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ ƉƌĞǀŝŽƵƐůǇ ĂƐ Ϯϯ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ĂŐĂŝŶƐƚ Ϯϭ decliners. DKZ/^KE (+9.7%), , DW/KE (+8.9%) and

0.8x

Brokerage

0.42

Asset Management

Investment Research

Adedoyin Allen | aallen@afrinvest.com Robert Omotunde | romotunde@afrinvest.com Abiodun Keripe | AKeripe@afrinvest.com Taiwo Ogundipe | togundi-

Christopher Omoh | comoh@afrinvest.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS

MRS Oil Nigeria Board Meets to Approve 2020 Financials Goddy Egene

Oil Nigeria Plc will meet on Thursday, March 25, 2021 to deliberate on the Audited

The board of directors of MRS 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

Annual Financial Statements for the period ended 31, December,2020 (2020 AFS),

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 09Mar-2021, unless otherwise stated.

amongst other things. In a notification to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE),

the company said based on the foregoing, its closed period commenced from yesterday

till 24 hours after filing the AFS for the period ended December 31, 2020.

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

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund N/A N/A N/A Nigeria International Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Dollar Fund N/A N/A N/A ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund 1.00 1.04 12.37% ACAP Income Funds 0.65 0.65 -11.06% 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 2.01% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.27 3.43 -7.91% 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 ($) N/A N/A N/A ARM Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 102.98 102.98 1.25% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 121.40 122.26 -3.78% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 1.97% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.04 2.04 -28.54% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.14 2.18 -28.40% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Paramount Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Women's Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 1.94% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 125.25 126.12 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 110.28 110.28 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 0.97% Coronation Balanced Fund 1.16 1.17 -3.15% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.45 1.45 -8.78% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 1.78% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 1.59% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,155.94 1,159.20 -3.66% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,347.86 1,347.86 5.43% FBN Balanced Fund 180.05 181.31 -4.06% FBN Halal Fund 110.17 110.17 4.51% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 0.00% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional N/A N/A N/A FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 123.85 123.85 3.00% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 146.02 148.01 -3.41% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 1.22% Legacy Debt Fund 3.90 3.90 0.76% Legacy Equity Fund 1.55 1.59 2.09% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.15 1.15 0.90% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 3,744.01 3,792.45 -1.54% Coral Income Fund 3,332.57 3,332.57 1.59% FSDH Treasury Bills Fund 100.00 100.00 1.60%

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 1.03% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 126.81 126.27 18.06% 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 1.27% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.63 2.69 14.69% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 4.50% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 155.95 156.39 0.34% Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End 1.07 1.07 4.88% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD ﬁncon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.35 1.37 -1.38% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,140.92 1,140.92 1.56% 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 1.58 1.61 7.53% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.23 12.35 -0.04% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 1.50% PACAM Equity Fund 1.56 1.57 -1.52% PACAM EuroBond Fund 109.45 112.14 0.04% 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 126.12 128.28 5.44% 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 1.21% 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 3,069.82 3,095.12 -4.53% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 226.87 226.87 0.90% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.11 1.13 -5.08% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 297.23 297.24 0.87% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 209.82 212.43 -3.98% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 1.84% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 9,751.99 9,877.67 -7.13% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.24 1.24 1.09% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 111.84 111.84 0.68% 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 1.31 1.33 -3.84% United Capital Bond Fund 1.91 1.91 1.07% United Capital Equity Fund 0.87 0.89 0.77% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 2.74% United Capital Eurobond Fund 118.42 118.42 1.14% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.06 1.07 -2.50% United capital Sukuk Fund 1.02 1.02 2.29% 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 12.01 12.11 1.20% Zenith Ethical Fund 13.31 13.42 8.91% Zenith Income Fund 24.20 24.20 0.92% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 1.89%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

121.84 52.76

0.91% 0.69%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

12.35 113.77 91.56

12.45 113.77 93.29

-6.54% -6.55% -7.85%

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

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

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.

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 •T H I S D AY

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 • T H I S D AY

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 •T H I S D AY

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 • T H I S D AY

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 •T H I S D AY

THURSDAY, ͹͹˜ ͺ͸ͺ͹ ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

FG to Spend Additional N500m on Delta Road FEC okays construction of substations in Benue, Kano Deji Elumoye in Abuja The federal government yesterday raised the cost of completing the 18.7kilometre long BuluOriagbene road in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State by N500 million. It also approved the construction of electricity substations in Benue and Kano States as well as N190 million for the procurement of a microscope for the University of Ibadan. Briefing journalists after a meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), at the State House, Abuja the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, said the construction of the road was a project of the ministry, which has already attained 97 per cent completion. He said: “The Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs presented two memos today at the Federal Executive Council and both were approved. "One was just augmentation

or a variation of the contract for the construction of BuluOriagbene road in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State. “The road is about 18.7 kilometres and the initial contract price was about N8.5 billion and with the variation price today, the contract price is now about N9 billion and the Federal executive Council today approved that variation.” According to him, the contractors have within six months to complete the project. The FEC also approved the floating of a digital platform where projects executed by his ministry can be monitored. He said: “There is what we call Strategic Implementation Work Plan (SIWP) for the Niger Delta region. The intention here is to have a web-based monitoring system, an e-portal where all the agencies under us and development partners as well as non-governmental organisations, including states

and local governments that are involved in implementing projects in the Niger Delta region will have all their projects keyed into that portal." Akpabio stated that the portal was introduced to help in coordination and also prevent duplication of projects. Akpabio added that the ministry has so far completed 50 projects, whose inauguration is being delayed by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Minister of State for Education, Mr. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, said FEC, in continuation of the efforts of the federal government to revitalise the education sector, passed a resolution granting the request of the University of Ibadan to acquire a new microscope. “This is a microscope, which is totally directed at enhancing whatever material, looking at nuclear composition of its molecular nature. This is in our premier university. Like you all

understand that the Department of Anatomy has been at the forefront of this coordinated research in Nigeria for many years since its inception in 1948. “The first of such equipment was given to us in 1967 by the Japanese government, but it has become obsolete. And the federal government has had the opportunity to review many of the requests from the university authorities, including Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). It was then agreed in the NEEDS assessment report. “The replacement of these kinds of equipment falls into the fulcrum of what the NEEDS assessment report asked that we do. So, the request by the University of Ibadan has been approved so that we can stop spending the kind of money we spend sending Ph.D and further research students abroad on the basis of the lack of this particular equipment. “The cost at the moment is

only N190,552,000. N190 million will be made available by the federal government and the University of Ibadan will be adding N552,000 as their own counterpart fund from Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). Within 16 weeks (four months), we will have this equipment in the country,” he added. On his part, Minister of Power, Mr. Mamman Sale, stated that FEC approved the construction of three substations, two in Kano State and one in Benue State, and the extension of transmission lines in Umuahia, Abia State and Mbano, Imo State. He put the cost for the extension of transmission lines in Abia and Imo States at $506,324.40 plus N34,034,000 local content. On the amount for the construction of three substations in Zaki-Biam, Benue State and Bichi and Kanyi, Kano State, Sale said the one in Zaki-Biam was $8.6 million while the local content was N2.08 billion.

"The second one in Bichi is $9.6 million plus N1.7 billion local content. The one in Kanyi, Kano State is $9.5 million plus N1.7 billion," he added. Asked why the ministry was embarking on new projects, the minister said: “There has not been any problem so far but we just have to expand the national grid for sustainable supply of electricity and also to improve capacity. That is all.” Supporting Sale’s position, Information and Culture Minister, Lai Mohammed said: “You see, before now, there've been complaints that more power is being produced compared to what is being wheeled out. “So, what he's been doing recently is to improve the capacity of the TCN to transmit more power. So, all these contracts you heard of is about improving the capacity of the TCN so that when this electricity is produced, it will get to our homes.”

Labour Threatens Strike over Minimum Wage Decentralisation Bill Occupies national, state assemblies Our Correspondents The organised labour yesterday vowed to call out its members on a nationwide indefinite strike should the National Assembly go ahead with the bill seeking to move the National Minimum Wage from the Exclusive List to the Concurrent List of the Constitution. The union argued that National Minimum Wage as embedded in the constitution is an internationally recognized standard which has the endorsement of the United Nations, through its agency, International Labour Organisation (ILO). This is coming as hundreds of members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) yesterday organised a one-day protest during which they marched to the National Assembly complex in Abuja and the state Houses of Assembly across the country. NLC and its affiliates were demanding the withdrawal of the bill by the House of Representatives. The lawmakers had about two weeks ago introduced the bill which according to the sponsor, Hon. Garba Mohammed, would allow both the federal and state governments to freely negotiate a minimum wage with their workers in line with federalism.” Speaking yesterday at the protest organised by the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, President of the NLC, Mr. Ayuba Wabba, said that over 33 federating nations, including the United States of America, have their Minimum Wage in the exclusive list. According to him, moving the national minimum wage from the exclusive to the concurrent list is a declaration of war on Nigerian workers. Wabba said that workers have given the leadership of organised labour the mandate to declare nationwide strike if the right thing is not done. The bill that seeks to remove the national minimum wage from the exclusive list to the concurrent list is not acceptable, Wabba said. The nationwide protest was organised to protest the bill sponsored by Hon. Garba Datti Mohammed of Sabon Gari Federal Constituency, Kaduna

State had passed the 1st and 2nd reading in February 2021. “The national minimum wage is not a Nigerian standard but an international standard. In the countries of the world, over 33 federating nations including the United States of America have their minimum wage in the exclusive list,” he said. Wabba made reference to the United States which he said is about reviewing its current minimum wage of $10per hour upwards. He said that President Biden has already announced plans to initiate an upward review of the minimum wage to $15per hour. “How can we degenerate to remove the issue that workers have earned through hard labour for 40 years overnight? The problem of Nigeria, we have said in essence, is the issue of good governance. “That is why we are here. These are all well documented in the documents that we will present to the leadership of the National Assembly,” he said. The NLC president said state governors are collecting the same salary across the country, the same with state and National of Assemblies as well as the Counselors. ”So, why is the case of workers different, if it is the issue of ability to pay? Governors also collect humongous amount as security votes that have not been used to address security challenges in Nigeria. If we address this, we will have enough to pay the minimum wage. It’s a national benchmark”. On his part, the TUC president, Mr. Quadri Olaleye urged the National Assembly to leave by example. “If the National Assembly must take that the decision, all the executives should go back to their Local Governnent to collect their salary, according to their local government revenue generation,” he said. Both labour leaders presented a protest letter to the House of Representatives through the Majority Leader, Hon. Hassan Doguwa. Doguwa, while receiving the protest letter on behalf of the Speaker House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila commended the organised labour’s leadership

for expressing their grievances in the right quarter. ”I want to say that we have accepted the letter presented to us by the organised labour and I want to assure you that we will give it the right treatment. “We will also provide the window for the people to come and present their grievances through the public hearing," he said. The lawmaker explained that the bill in contention is only a proposal, adding that it is quite obvious that the organised labour is against that bill. “If you are against that bill, you are right and you have every reason to be against that bill. I want to assure that the House of Representatives will see and give a listening ear to your grievances. We will still invite you to come and engage with relevant committees to make your contributions.” Earlier the protesters, who caused gridlock and carried placards, marched from the Unity Fountain through the Federal Secretariat to the Three Arms Zone before getting to the entrance gates of the National Assembly complex. The workers also carried their protest to the state lawmakers across the state capitals. Speaking when the workers marched to the Lagos State House of Assembly, the Chairman of the state chapter of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria, Mr. Gbenga Ekundayo sought the intervention of the Lagos State House of Assembly to put a stop to the bill. “This minimum wage is not only about the government, it covers every working-class Nigerian and removes the wage from the exclusive list to concurrent is an increase in challenges that we do not need,” he said. Also contributing, NLC Lagos Chapter Chairman, Dr. Funmi Agness Sessi argued that Nigerians are not happy with government policies as they tend to hurt the people especially on the matter of the minimum wage bill. After listening to their grievances, Hon. Solaja-Saka Nurudeen, who is a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly gave kudos to the NLC Lagos State Chapter for

their comradeship in the fight for justice and common interest of the people, and assured them that their message will be delivered to the appropriate quarters. The Adamawa State chapter of NLC and its affiliates unions also joined the protest. While speaking at the State House of Assembly, the state chairman of NLC, Mr. Emmanuel Fashe who spoke on behalf of the organised labour, said the bill if passed, would undermine the working class in the country. The protesters marched through the police roundabout to state assembly complex to express their grievances to the state legislature. Their movement caused serious gridlock, forcing motorists to seek alternative routes. The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Aminu Abbas said the lawmakers will look into their petition and do justice to it. The Plateau State NLC and TUC also joined the protect yesterday. The state NLC Chairman, Mr. Sunday Akin delivered their protest letter to the Speaker of the House of Assembly Mr. Abok Ayuba. Responding, the Speaker who thanked the workers for conducting themselves peacefully, explained that “Amendment of law is a process; it must pass through the two chambers of the National Assembly before its gets to state Houses of Assembly. “When it comes to us, we will call stakeholders and discuss with you before we take a position.” In Kaduna State, the state Chairman of NLC, Mr. Ayuba Magaji Suleiman led the protesters to the state House of Assembly. Presenting the workers’ request to the Speaker of Kaduna State House of Assembly, Hon. Yusuf Ibrahim Zailani, the

NLC chairman said, National Minimum Wage should not be decentralised. “It is a shame that the member representing Sabon Gari Federal Constituency of Kaduna State, Hon. Garba Datti Babawo, sponsored the anti-workers’ bill seeking to remove minimum wage from the exclusive list,” he said. The Chairman House Committee on Appropriation and Finance, Hon. Mohammed Ahmed who received the protesters on behalf of the Speaker of the House assured that the lawmakers will always protect workers' interest. Kano State chairman of the NLC Chairman, Mr. Kabiru Minjibir, led the workers in the protest. Bayelsa State Chairman of NLC, Mr. Bipte Ndiomu, also led the workers in the protest to the state assembly complex. Ndiomu, who presented a letter to Bayelsa State House of Assembly during the protest said the bill negate the gains the Nigerian working class had made in last 40 years to free workers from slave conditions by their employers. Responding, the Speaker, Hon. Abraham Ingobere, expressed support for the position of the workers. Ingobere was represented by Hon. Ebiowou KokuObiyal, representing Yenagoa Constituency 2. Also addressing the workers, the Speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Olakunle Oluomo, promised to support the workers, who were led by the Chairman of the state chapter of the NLC, Mr. Emmanuel Bankole. Addressing journalists during the protest, the acting chairman of NLC in Abia State, Comrade Eze Idima said the protest was necessary to save workers

from uncertain future if state governments were allowed to decide what to pay their respective workers. "We came to express our feelings and rejection for removal of minimum wage from exclusive list to the concurrent legislative list,” he said. Speaking when he led members of the organised labour in a peaceful protest to the state House of Assembly in Enugu, the state chairman of the NLC, Comrade Virginus Nwobodo said the move is a plan to subject Nigerian workers to perpetual hardship. Also speaking during the protest, the State TUC chairman, Comrade Ben Asogwa maintained that workers in Nigeria will resist every attempt to pass the bill. Addressing the protesters outside the Assembly Complex, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Edward Ubosi, said the state government would continue to protect the interest of the workers. Ubosi who was represented by his Deputy Speaker, Hon. Uche Ugwu, said the state Assembly will not engage in any activity that will jeopardise the already existing peace between the state government and the workers. The Oyo State NLC Chairman, Comrade Martins while addressing members of the state House of Assembly, said the implication of transferring the minimum wage from the exclusive legislative list to the concurrent legislative list is that it will be a license for state governors to drag the country back to the era of ridiculous slave wages. On his part, the TUC Chairman, Mr. Ogundiran said the National Assembly wants to throw Nigerian masses back to the slavery era.

REPATRIATED £4.2M BELONGS TO DELTA, SAY HOUSE, FALANA, AZINGE government to divert the money to projects not located within Delta State. Ifeajika said: " The Delta State Government believes that the federal government erred by proposing that the money allegedly recovered from ex-governor James Ibori, and which is being returned to Nigeria by the UK, would be used for projects outside the state.

"We believe and hope that the federal government will listen to the voice of reason from other stakeholders and rescind its plan to use the money for projects not connected to Delta State at all. "It would be understandable if they were proposing to use the recovered money to fund projects here in Delta State. "For instance, there are many federal roads in the state that

are in very deplorable condition; so, one may be talking about committing the money to the reconstruction and rehabilitation of some of these federal roads that are very bad.” He identified Asaba-Illah Road, Agbor-Umutu-Abraka roads; Warri-Sapele-Benin road and Sapele-Eku road as some of the bad roads in the state that need urgent attention.

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

Meghan Files Complaint against UK TV Host, Morgan’s Criticisms

Meghan Markle filed a formal complaint with British broadcaster ITV after a presenter, Piers Morgan, criticised her claims against the royal family and later quit, it was reported Wednesday. Morgan left his role as host of Good Morning Britain on Tuesday following a scathing attack on the Duchess of Sussex’s interview with US chatshow host Oprah Winfrey. Meghan and her husband, Prince Harry, accused the royal family of racism, while the former television actress said she had suicidal thoughts during her time in Britain. Former CNN host Morgan’s comments that he did not believe her sparked 41,000 complaints to Britain’s broadcasting regulator

Ofcom. Britain’s domestic Press Association news agency said it understood that Meghan formally complained to ITV before he resigned, confirming a report in the Daily Telegraph newspaper. The complaint focused on how his remarks may affect those trying to deal with their own mental health problems, it added. It did not concern his repeated criticism of her or allegations of racism, which have rocked the monarchy. Morgan, a former tabloid newspaper editor, has been a consistent critic of Markle after she cut off contact with him after she met Harry and they married in 2018.

On Tuesday, Morgan stormed off the set of Good Morning Britain as he clashed with a fellow presenter who defended the duchess. Speaking to reporters in central London on Wednesday morning, Morgan said he would not retract his comments and was making a stand for free speech. “If people want to believe

Meghan Markle, that is entirely their right. I don’t believe almost anything that comes out of her mouth,” he said. “I think the damage she has done to the British monarchy and to the queen, at a time when Prince Philip is lying in hospital, is enormous and frankly contemptible.” Morgan also hit out at those

who he said thought he had been “cancelled”. “I think they will be rather disappointed when I re-emerge. I would call it a temporary hibernation,” he said. Buckingham Palace on Tuesday responded to the explosive claims. Queen Elizabeth II said Meghan and Harry, who quit

royal life last year, and their son Archie would remain “muchloved family members”. But she also said the accusations would be dealt with “privately”. Asked to respond to Buckingham Palace’s statement, a spokesman for Meghan and Harry said they would not be commenting any further.

South Korea to Pay 13.9% More for US Troop Presence South Korea has agreed to pay 13.9 per cent more towards the cost of the US troop presence on the peninsula, its foreign ministry said Wednesday, in a six-year deal resolving an issue that festered under the Trump administration. The financial dispute had bedevilled the two allies’ security alliance after former president Donald Trump — who had a transactional approach to foreign policy — repeatedly accused South Korea of freeloading. Washington stations around 28,500 troops in South Korea to defend it from the nuclear-armed North Korea, which invaded the South in 1950, and protect US interests in northeast Asia. Under the new deal, Seoul has agreed to pay 1.18 trillion won ($1.03 billion) for 2021, with annual increases thereafter linked to its defence budget. The sum represents a 13.9 percent increase on the roughly $920 million Seoul was paying under the previous agreement, which expired in 2019 — but is a far cry from the Trump administration’s initial demand of $5 billion a year.

The new pact “again reaffirmed the need for a stable presence of US troops in Korea,” Seoul’s foreign ministry said in a statement, adding it resolved a vacuum that had lasted for about 15 months. Both governments announced earlier this week that they had reached an agreement in principle, but the amounts involved were only confirmed on Wednesday. The new deal must still be approved by the South Korean legislature. The agreement came as Seoul and Washington kicked off their annual military training on Monday, which has been scaled down from the usual level due to the pandemic, with no large-scale physical troop involvement. The nine-day exercise is still likely to infuriate North Korea, which has long considered such drills rehearsals for invasion. North Korea has put itself under strict self-imposed isolation to try to protect itself against the pandemic, adding to the pressure on its moribund economy.

LUCKY WINNERS...

L-R: Sixth place winner of the European Union short video competition on Fighting Sexual and Gender-based Violence, Mr. Twammsen Danaan; Second place winner, Ms. Doris Okorie; Third place winner, Ms. Anita Abada; First place winner, Ms. Aimalohi Ojeamiren; and Fourth place winner, Mr. David Nkwa, during the award ceremony at the State House…Tuesday

In Message to China, Biden to Meet Australia, India, Japan PMs US President Joe Biden will hold first-ever joint talks Friday with the leaders of Australia, India and Japan, boosting an emerging four-way alliance often cast as a bulwark against China. It will be one of the first summits, albeit in virtual format, for Biden, who has vowed to revive US alliances in the wake of the disarray of Donald Trump’s administration. “That President Biden has made this one of his earliest multilateral engagements speaks to the importance that we place on close cooperation

with our allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific,” White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters Tuesday. The meeting of the so-called “Quad” comes amid rising tensions with China, which is seen as flexing its muscle both in trade and security realms. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Biden was “taking this to another level.” “It will be an historic moment in our region and it sends a strong message to the region about our support for a sovereign, independent

Indo-Pacific,” Morrison told reporters. China struck a cautionary note over the nascent alliance taking shape in its backyard. The Quad “should conform to prevailing trends of peaceful development and win-win cooperation,” foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told reporters in Beijing. Both Psaki and India, which earlier announced the participation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said the talks would take up climate change and the Covid-19 pandemic — two key priorities for Biden.

“The leaders will discuss regional and global issues of shared interest, and exchange views on practical areas of cooperation towards maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region,” the Indian foreign ministry said in a statement. The talks, also involving Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, will touch as well on promoting maritime security and “ensuring safe, equitable and affordable vaccines” to fight Covid-19 in Asia, the Indian statement said.

Death Toll in Equatorial Guinea German Court Suspends Sentence for Man Who Spied for Egypt German who spied for in Berlin. had “largely conspiratorial” press office. Military Camp Blasts Rises to 105 AEgypt while he was working The sentence, which contact with his handlers. Investigators did not find The death toll from four explosions that rocked a military camp in Equatorial Guinea and surrounding areas rose to 105 with the discovery of seven more corpses, state television has said. A total of 615 people were injured in Sunday’s accidental blasts at the Nkoa Ntoma camp in the country’s economic hub Bata, which devastated buildings at the compound and houses in surrounding districts. President Teodoro Obiang Nguema, who has ruled the oil-rich country with an iron fist for 42 years, once again blamed the military for “negligence” in stocking ammunition so close to residential areas. He has previously spoken of stubble-burning by local farmers setting off the tragedy. State television channel TVGE said seven more bodies were found on Tuesday, buried under rubble. On Monday, it said more than 60 survivors had been found trapped under debris,

including two children aged three and four. TVGE has shown images akin to a war zone, with rescue workers and civilians struggling to remove bodies from smoking ruins. Obiang on Tuesday said the officers in charge of the camp, which houses special forces and gendarmes and their families, had “been careless”. Dynamite is normally “stocked very far from people and kept underground”, he said. The defence ministry said blasts caused by heavy-calibre munitions caused “shock waves which totally destroyed numerous homes nearby”. Yesterday, residents said Bata was calm but they feared more blasts were possible. “People continue to send their families to villages in the interior of the country because they think that Sunday’s explosions were a warning and the worst could still happen,” Bata resident Pastor Oyono told AFP by phone.

in Chancellor Angela Merkel’s press office was handed a suspended prison sentence of one year and nine months, a Berlin court said Wednesday. Egypt-born Amin K., 66, admitted to having exploited his privileged position in the office to pass on information to Egypt’s General Intelligence Service (GIS) between 2010 and 2019. “The defendant pleaded guilty”, said a spokeswoman for the regional court of appeals

was handed down last week, was the result of an agreement reached between K.’s defence lawyers and the state prosecutors. The 66-year-old had worked since 1999 for the visitor service of the federal press office, which among other things is responsible for communicating Merkel’s activities. According to the charge sheet, he supported the intelligence services “on behalf of the Egyptian embassy” and

He made observations about media coverage of Egypt-related domestic and foreign policy issues in Germany, as well as events such as a demonstration in Berlin in 2018 and a raid on a mosque whose imam had links to Egypt. In 2014 and 2015, he also helped in a failed attempt to recruit a translator for the German parliament’s language service as another source and handed over the names of five Syrian-born colleagues at the

evidence that K. was paid directly for his espionage. He allegedly hoped to win preferential treatment from the Egyptian authorities and succeeded in securing help with his mother’s claim to her pension payments. Appearing as a witness at the trial, K.’s former manager at the press office said the 66-yearold was only responsible for sending visitor’s programmes and would not have had access to any sensitive information.

One Killed as South African Students Protest over Tuition Debt A passerby was shot dead Wednesday after South African police moved to disperse students protesting against refusal by a top Johannesburg-based university to register those in arrears with tuition fees, local media and the university said. AFP journalists saw the body of a man lying on his back on the sidewalk covered with a silvercoloured safety sheet, just a street

away from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). Clashes erupted when police used rubber bullets to break up a group of students who were blocking roads with rubble and disrupting traffic in downtown Johannesburg around the Wits campus precinct. Students began sporadic protests in early January over the alleged exclusion of some students

by a government-sponsored tuition aid scheme. They are demanding that Wits university allows all students with outstanding debt to register for the 2021 academic year. Many students have fallen into arrears because of economic hardships caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Local broadcasters showed live the clashes between police

and students. Wits University spokeswoman Shirona Patel said the victim was not their student. “My understanding so far is that the protestors blocked a public road, the police tried to disperse them, and the passerby was shot in the crossfire,” she told AFP. Enraged students gathered near the body, with some shouting at police officers to leave the area.

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

Zulum Receives 5,000 Nigerian Refugees from Cameroon Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has received the first batch of 5,000 Nigerian refugees repatriated from neighbouring Cameroon. The 5,000 refugees were part of thousands that fled at the peak of the Boko Haram crisis and negotiation of their return has been on ongoing. The refugees were handed over to the governor by Cameroonian officials, led by the Minister for Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, at a brief ceremony in Amchiide, a border community between Nigeria and Cameroon close to Banki in Bama Local Government Area of Borno Central on Monday. The handover ceremony was attended by top officials from Cameroon, including the governor of the far North Region, Midjiyawa Bakary and officials of the United Nations

High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). The Cameroonian Minister for Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji Paul, announced that President Paul Biya had approved a big relief package which included food items, mattresses, blankets and other non-food items for distribution to all the 5,000 returnees as support. The minister commended Zulum for constructing homes where the refugees would be resettled. Zulum had approved funds and supervised the ongoing construction of over 6,000 urban and low-cost resettlement houses sited in Banki, Gwoza, Kondugu, Kaga and different others, with a substantial number of them already completed. Majority of them are used for resettlement of refugees and internally displaced persons. Zulum, on behalf of Nigeria, thanked the Cameroonian

Miyetti Allah Backs Ranching, Says Open Grazing Obsolete James Sowole in Akure The Ondo State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders’ Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has recommended that herders should seek modern alternatives to open grazing, and urged the government to make provision for ranches to end the frequent clashes between herders and farmers. Speaking yesterday in Akure, Ondo State capital, during a public hearing on a bill to regulate grazing of livestock and provide for the establishment of ranches, among other related issues, the Chairman of the association in the state, Alhaji Bello Garba, said the association would support any peaceful move to address the issue. He argued that farmers and herders must carry out their respective activities without clashing. He disclosed that his association has also appealed to the state government to register Fulani men in all the LGAs of the state. Also speaking, the Assistant

Secretary of the association, Mr. Ibrahim Abdul-Rahman, stated that open grazing had become obsolete and needed to be banned. Abdul-Rahman asked all stakeholders to embrace modern cattle rearing techniques, saying farmers and herders must allow peace to reign considering the importance of both parties to the nation’s growth. In his opening speech, the Speaker of Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Bamidele Oloyelogun, said it was aimed at enhancing peaceful coexistence in the state. Oloyelogun added that if similar moves had been made in the past, it would have been a different story today. “It is for peace to reign in our state. This record will go a long way, having effects even on the children yet unborn,” Oloyelogun said. “Your memoranda and suggestions will be welcome. Please, feel free to air your views and bare your minds, but we must be objective and constructive.”

Again, Bandits Kill One Person, Kidnap 18 in Niger Laleye Dipo in Minna Bandits have again struck in kapana village in the Munya Local Government Area of Niger State, killing one person and abducting 18 others. Several others were said to have been injured during the operation by the bandits, which lasted for close to three hours. The heavily armed bandits were reported to have stormed the community on Tuesday night and started shooting sporadically to scare the villagers. In the stampede that followed, bullet was said to have hit the deceased, who died instantly, leaving several others injured. A report from the area said that several villagers have

migrated from the town in search of safe haven in adjoining villages The member representing Munya Constituency in the state House of Assembly, Mr. Andrew Danjuma Jagaba confirmed the incident, describing it as an unprovoked attack on innocent villagers. Jagaba called on the state and federal governments to beef up security in the area to forestall further attack, while also appealing to the people to be calm assuring them that government will act swiftly. Jagaba commiserated with the family of the deceased, the injured and those who were abducted, saying that government will intervene.

president, other officials and host communities for taking good care of Nigerian refugees in the last six years. The governor appreciated the donation made by President Biya. “I wish to sincerely convey our deepest appreciation to the government of Cameroon under the distinguished leadership of President Paul

Biya for the enormous support to my fellow Nigerians who took refuge in the Minawao [refugee] Camp. We remain eternally grateful”, Zulum said. The repatriation was to implement the outcome of a tripartite commission meeting held in Marwa, Cameroon, on February 10, 2021, which

was attended by officials from Cameroon, the UNHCR and a Nigerian delegation that comprised Governor Zulum and top officials from federal ministries of Foreign Affairs, Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and IDPs

as well as Zulum’s Special Adviser on Monitoring and Evaluation, who chairs a technical committee on the repatriation, Mr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe. After receiving the refugees, Zulum in Banki town, flagged off the presentation of food and non-food items to the 5,000 Nigerian returnees.

FIGHTING THE PANDEMIC…

Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi (left), being given the COVID-19 vaccine by the State Commisisoner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Olabanji Filani; during the flag- off of the exercise in Ado-Ekiti…yesterday

Emirates Extends Ban on Outbound Nigerian Flights Till March 20 Chinedu Eze The United Arabs Emirates (UAE) mega carrier, Emirates Airlines has extended ban on outbound Nigerian flights till March 20, 2021. This is coming at a time the federal government is contemplating reviewing the airline’s operations in Nigeria. Emirates has so far sustained its in-bound flights to Nigeria, even as it banned its outbound

flight since February 4, 2021. In a statement by an Emirates spokesperson in Lagos with title ‘Update on Flights to/ from Nigeria to Dubai Until 20 March’, made available to THISDAY yesterday, the airline said passengers from both Abuja and Lagos would not be accepted for travel prior to or including this date. “In line with government directives, passenger services from Nigeria (Lagos and Abuja)

to Dubai are temporarily suspended until 20 March 2021. “Customers from both Abuja and Lagos will not be accepted for travel prior to or including this date. Passengers who have been to or connected through Nigeria in the last 14 days are not allowed entry into the UAE (whether terminating in or connecting through Dubai),” the airline said. It stated further that Emirates’ flights from Dubai

to Lagos and Abuja would continue to operate their normal schedule. “We regret the inconvenience caused, and affected customers should contact their booking agent or Emirates call centre for rebooking. “Emirates remains committed to Nigeria, and we look forward to resuming passenger services to Dubai for our customers when conditions allow,” it added.

EFCC Arrests 40 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Anambra, Edo Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) zonal offices in Enugu and Benin yesterday arrested 40 suspected internet fraudsters for various offences bordering on cybercrimes at a hideout in Awka, Anambra State and Benin, Edo State. An EFCC statement said the arrest of the 29 suspects in Enugu was sequel to credible intelligence obtained by the commission

on their nefarious activities necessitating an extensive surveillance on them before they were arrested in the early hours of March 9. The arrested suspects are Izuchukwu Precious Chinonso, Izuchukwu Chukwuebuka Goodness, Ogu Chukwuebuka Kingsley, Iheagwam Sixtus Chijoke, Igwemadu Kenechukwu Emmanuel, Joseph Igwe and Ilegbukem Justin. Others are Ilegbunem Paschal Onyeka, Paul Okoye,

Muolokwu Osita, Okechukwu Ifeanyichukwu, Nnamdi Agbo, Chinyeluba Ifeanyi and Mbanugo Ifeanyi. The statement listed other suspects to include Bernard Femi, Okafor Ekene, Nwabueze Ifeanyi, Edeh Chukwuebuka, Mgbemefulu Henry, Chinecherem Okpara, Kosisochukwu Chukwuemeka Harrison, Okoroafor Elochukwu, Edeh Gerald, Chukwuemeka Emmanuel, Chimezie Ugwu, Aguguom Ifeanyi, Mgbemfulu

Collin, Edeh Izuchukwu Dominic and Oputa Ekene. In the course of the arrest, five exotic cars, a brand new Mercedes Benz GLK with registration number HAL160-MX, Lexus IS 250 with registration number UMZ-145MX, Toyota Avalon XLS with registration number KRD-641-FL, Lexus ES 350 with registration number GWA-489-KZ, Lexus ES 330 with registration number AAH-25-AE were recovered from them.

Police Arrest Four Fake Naval Officers in Ekiti Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti

The Ekiti State Police Command has arrested four men for impersonation, having allegedly paraded themselves as naval officers in the public. The arrest according to the Police Commissioner, Ekiti State, Mr. Babatunde Mobayo, was effected on March 1, 2021, at about 14:39pm in Igede Ekiti, Irepodun Ifelodun Local Government Area. Mobayo, who said this at a press conference held at the police headquarters, in

Ado Ekiti, yesterday, said the suspected fake naval officers were arrested while parading themselves in a manner likely to cause breach of peace in the town. The suspects were: Ogundayomi Ajayi, Arojojoye Adewumi, Adebayo Olusola and Lamide Osheiza, who were all from Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State. Mobayo said: “They were found wearing Nigerian Navy uniform and claimed to be members of the Nigerian Merchant Navy Caster Defence Force. It was discovered that the

said organisation was among the proscribed Security Outfits by the Official Gazette of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, No 58,Vol.100 of 2013. “Investigation revealed that the suspects conspired and impersonated to be officials of a legally constituted organisation with the motive of extorting innocent members of the public. The Police Commissioner also confirmed the arrest of one Sanusi Ismaila for allegedly being in possession of stolen items. “On February 12, 2021,

at about 10:45pm, a reliable information received revealed that one Sanusi Ismaila, a resident of Iworoko-Ekiti, was found to be in possession of household properties reasonably suspected to be stolen goods”. Mobayo said items recovered from the suspect were: 2,000 pieces of clothes, 300 pieces of window blinds, 400 Wrist Watches, 150 Calculators, 100 Power Banks, 200 pairs of shoes, 30 pieces of game pads, 100 phones, 100 female bags, and 200 extension sockets.

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS XTRA

Analysts Outline Measures to Boost Foreign Trade James Emejo in Abuja

Analysts yesterday urged the federal government to pursue port reforms, address poor infrastructure as well as inefficient and bureaucratic border administration in order to boost external trade, which recorded about N7.37 trillion deficits in 2020. They also called on the government to remove trade barriers because a generally poor business environment does not mean well for foreign trade. The analysts pointed out in separate interviews with THISDAY that the decline in the country’s export trade was a direct consequence of the negative impact of COVID-19 pandemic on merchandise trade, and urged both the fiscal and monetary authorities to sustain ongoing interventions to stimulate the economy. The experts, among other things, prevailed on government to boost efforts aimed at encouraging value addition to export commodities including cocoa, sesame seeds, yam and

work towards their acceptability in the export markets. Their advice came as Nigeria’s total merchandise trade declined to N32.42 trillion in 2020, compared to N36.15 trillion in 2019, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). This represented the first fall in total trade since 2019, after an annual consecutive increase from 2015. The decrease is not unconnected with the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which slowed down global businesses. However, total trade increased by 8.9 per cent to N9.12 trillion in the fourth quarter of last year (Q4 2020), compared to N8.37 trillion in the preceding quarter. According to the Foreign Trade in Goods Statistics (Q4 2020), which was posted on the NBS website, Q4 performance was lower by 9.9 per cent when compared to the N10.1 trillion in Q4 2019 while the value of trade in Q4 was the highest recorded over the past year. The export component of

trade stood at N3.19 trillion, representing an increase of 6.7 per cent over the N2.99 trillion in the preceding quarter. In addition, the share of exports in total trade declined to 35 per cent in Q4 from 47 per cent in Q4 2019.

On the other hand, total imports reached a record high at N5.93 trillion in the quarter under review, representing an increase of 10.1 per cent over the N5.38 trillion in the preceding quarter. The NBS noted that the value

of imports nearly doubled the value of exports, as trade deficit rose to its highest level and for a fifth consecutive quarterly deficit at N2.731.2billion, representing an increase of 14.30 per cent compared to Q3 2020. Crude oil remained the

country’s predominant export, which was valued at N2.42 trillion, representing 81.02 per cent of total exports while non-crude oil exports stood at N568.2billion, or 18.98 per cent of total export during the review period.

INSURANCE AGAINST PANDEMIC... Governor of Osun State, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola (left), receiving the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine from the Chief Medical Director, Nwodo Insists on Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, Prof. Peter Olaitan, at the Government House, Osogbo…yesterday Restructuring of Nigeria AIB Begins Investigation into Air Peace Flight Incident

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The National Coordinator, Southern and Middle Belt Leadership Forum and immediate past President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mr. John Nnia Nwodo, has stated that restructuring is the easiest way to return Nigeria to the basic values it needed to become a great country again. Nwodo’s view was contained in a paper titled “Reevaluation of African Values and Culture in the Face of the Crises of 21st Century” that he delivered at the 4th Chinua Achebe International Conference at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He noted that the changes in cultural values have traumatised the Nigerian society and led it to “yahoo yahoo,” cybercrime, illiteracy, insecurity, electoral dishonesty, lack of accountability, retardation in educational standards and insecurity, which could be remedied by going back to the basics by restructuring the country. The former Minister of Information and Culture insisted that the only way Nigerians could see a better

Nigeria in his life time is to “allow states to determine their educational, social welfare policies and security exclusively the ownership of their natural resources whilst paying royalties to the federal government for common services.” He took a historical look at the destruction of the nation’s socio-political and cultural values and noted that the best way out is in the restoration of merits and abandonment of quota system. Nwodo said: “All the major industrialised countries of the world thrive on merit. Merit promotes competition, rewards hard work and drives development. The idea that you can get admission to a Federal Secondary School, a polytechnic, a university or the civil service without excelling in a competitive examination destroys incentive for hard work and discovery of talents. “This is the only country in the world where videos of electoral pooling booths are showed by television stations yet courts hold that the test of proving without reasonable doubt has not been met.

Chinedu Eze Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) has announced that it has commenced investigation into the incident involving Air Peace Boeing 737-300 aircraft with registration number, 5N-BUQ, which had a tyre puncture after landing at Runway 18R and taxing to destination on March 8, 2021. The aircraft with 127 passengers and six crew members, landed without causalities and taxied to the domestic terminal of the Murtala

Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), known as General Aviation Terminal (GAT). A statement from the investigators said AIB Nigeria has been notified and has commenced investigation into the incident involving a Boeing 737-300 with nationality and registration marks 5N-BUQ operated by Air Peace Airline, which occurred around 9:31pm (local time) on March 8, 2021. “The aircraft, with 127 passengers and six crew members on-board was en-route Lagos from Abuja. As the investigating

agency, AIB needs and hereby solicits for your assistance. We want the public to know that we would be amenable to receiving any video clip, relevant evidence, or information any members of the public may have of the accident; that can assist us with this investigation,” the Bureau said. Spokesman of Air Peace, Mr. Stanley Oliseh explained in a statement that the aircraft safely landed at the international wing of the airport and while taxing to the domestic wing, had a tyre puncture caused by what is yet

to be ascertained. “The incident, which occurred at about 12 minutes of taxing and very close to the domestic wing, was duly reported to the authorities. Passengers disembarked seamlessly and the incident is currently being investigated as statutorily required,” the airline said. The statement also said the airline took exception to earlier reports implying that the aircraft had a tyre burst on landing, “as this is conveying a wrong impression about the airline to the flying public.”

Bayelsa Bans Open Grazing, Says Armed Herders to Be Arrested Bayelsa State Government has enacted a law prohibiting open grazing of livestock in the state. The law, Livestock Breeding, Rearing and Marketing Regulation Law 2021, was signed into law by Governor Douye Diri on Monday at the Executive Chamber of Government House, Yenagoa. Diri said the essence of the law is to ensure harmonious living between cattle dealers and other inhabitants of the state and to forestall the violent clashes being experienced in other parts of the

country. His words: “Bayelsa State welcomes all and sundry to eke out a living legitimately. The people of Bayelsa want to have a mutual and harmonious relationship with non-natives and natives. The essence of the law is to avert and forestall any clash between herdsmen, farmers, natives and non-natives as experienced in some states.” The law, according to him, stipulates that any herdsman found with arms, whether

licenced or not, should be arrested. He also stated that the law establishes a livestock management committee to regulate livestock activities in the state. Members of the committee include the Commissioner for Agriculture, security agencies, youths and others. He further said: “From the commencement of the law, no person shall breed, rear or trade in livestock in the state in any other place as may be designated

by the committee and approved by the state government.” The law prohibits movement of cattle on foot from other parts of the country into the state, inspection of livestock and certification by veterinary doctors at entry points into the state among others. Diri said by assenting to the law, any person found engaging in open grazing of livestock on foot commits an offence and would be arrested and prosecuted with the livestock impounded.

Udora Orizu in Abuja

the ‘Need to investigate the importation and manufacturing of substandard steel in Nigeria’, which was sponsored by Hon Babajide Obanikoro. Moving the motion, Obanikoro said the House is aware that one of the main reasons for building collapses in Nigeria is the use of substandard building materials such as steel among others. He expressed concern over media reports of April 30 and May 1, 2020, on the collapse of an eight-storey building under construction in Owerri, Imo

State, which led to the death of two people, while eight others were rescued and rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Owerri. He noted that the rescue operators later pulled out five more dead bodies from the debris of the building while the eight people taken to the hospital were later confirmed dead, bringing the total casualty figure to 15. The lawmaker further expressed concern by the report of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria that

over N500 billion has been lost due to building collapse and that about 175 buildings collapsed in Nigeria between 1971 and 2016 with 1,455 lives lost while the federal government loses over N1 billion weekly to smuggling of substandard steel products into Nigeria. Obanikoro added that the history of building collapses in Nigeria is alarming and a serious cause for concern that calls for a more robust approach to checkmate the manufacturing and importation of substandard steel.

Ekiti Assembly Endorses Fayemi for 2023 Presidency House Investigates Alleged Importation, under the auspices “Our Belief Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti Project.” The group’s Coordinator, Mr. Manufacturing of Substandard Steel The members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly have Adewunmi Abejide, said they endorsed the 2023 presidential ambition of the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi. The lawmakers, who could not wait for Fayemi to declare his presidential ambition, pledged to work with wellmeaning Nigerians and groups for the realisation of the mandate of having an Ekiti son as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the 2023. The Speaker of the House, Hon. Funminiyi Afuye, gave the endorsement of Fayemi by the state legislators at the assembly complex while receiving a group

came to get the assembly’s nod to pressurise Fayemi to contest the 2023 presidential election. Commenting on the request, the Speaker remarked that the lawmakers are witnesses to the sterling qualities and competence of Governor Fayemi in terms of delivery of democracy dividends, which had led to the radical transformation of the state. Afuye said: “We know that if Governor Fayemi is given a higher responsibility, the members believed that he will surely not disappoint.

The House of Representatives at the plenary yesterday resolved to investigate the importation and manufacturing of substandard steel in Nigeria. It mandated its Committee on Steel to investigate the alleged smuggling, importation and use of substandard steel and operations of locally fabricated steel companies in Nigeria, and report back within four weeks for further legislative action. The resolution was sequel to the adoption of a motion on

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS XTRA

Deploy Personnel to Communities Attacked by Herdsmen, Senate Tells Police Deji Elumoye and Udora Orizu in Abuja The Senate has called on the Nigerian Police Force to construct more police posts and ensure

police presence in communities that were displaced as a result of incessant attacks by suspected herdsmen in order to ensure security and rekindle the people’s confidence.

ABUTH Records First Successful Endovascular Abdominal Repair Surgery Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti The Afe Babalola University Multi-system Hospital in AdoEkiti, Ekiti State, has recorded yet another medical milestone, as it successfully performed the first Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (EVAR) repair in Nigeria. The surgery was performed by a multi-disciplinary team of experts at the institution led by Dr. Hammed Ninalowo and assisted by Dr. Yemi Johnson and Dr. Dave Dhiren, on a patient with abdominal aortic aneurysm. A statement issued by the Director of Corporate Affairs of the hospital, Tunde Olofintila, yesterday, said aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of vessels in the body due to inherent weakness in the wall. “This often results in the bloating of the vessels

and subsequent rupture if left untreated, and could lead to death,” the statement said. Olofinyika said until this index case, EVAR has never been done in Nigeria or West Africa. He said: “It therefore remains undisputable that this is the first time this procedure is being carried out in Nigeria and possibly in West Africa. This highly sophisticated procedure can only be carried out in a facility like ABUAD Multi-System Hospital where modern state-of-the-art facilities are available for the required multi-disciplinary team, including an Interventional Radiologist, Cardiologist, Cardiovascular Surgeon, Nephrologist, Anesthesiologist and a functioning cardiac catheterisation laboratory among others.

The Senate at plenary yesterday also called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA) to undertake on the spot assessment of the affected communities to determine the extent of the problem and the volume of relief to be provided to the affected persons. It further called on the concerned authorities to pursue and put in place necessary mechanism for the reparation

and relocation of the affected peoples and communities. These resolutions were sequel to the adoption of a motion on the urgent need to intervene in the plight of communities displaced and forced to seek refuge in Benin Republic as a result of incessant attacks by suspected herdsmen. Senator Tolu Odebiyi, who sponsored the resolution, recalled the recent spate of attacks by suspected herdsmen on communities in Yewa area of Ogun State like Asa, Oho Agbooro, Moro, Ibeku and

Agbon Ojodu communities, were affected by the criminal activities of these suspected herdsmen. He noted that countless of attacks by these criminal elements have forced many residents of these areas to relocate to a refugee camp in Pobe area of Benin Republic in search of safety, with many of them forced to live in very unfavourable conditions in the refugee camps. He federal lawmaker noted that these attacks by suspected herdsmen have become perennial due to the absence of police and

other security personnel in the affected communities. The senator expressed concern that these attacks have brought unquantifiable damage to facilities, which should have ensured the welfare of the residents and inhabitants of these communities. He also stressed that the state government should not be left with the onerous task of resettling these displaced citizens, hence, the need for support from the federal government to effectively return the affected citizens back to their various communities.

PEACE IN IMO... Senate Uncovers Differential FOR L-R: Convener of the Violence-free Nigeria Project, Mr. Cally Ikpe (left), presenting a souvenir to Governor of Imo State Senator Hope Subsidy Payment of N120bn Uzodimma, in Owerri ...recently by PPPRA House Decries Bandits’ Attacks on 30 Villages in Sokoto Deji Elumoye and Udora Orizu in Abuja

The Senate Committee on Public Accounts yesterday uncovered a differential of N120 billion in the payment of subsidy to the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) by the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulating Agency (PPPRA) in 2016. The panel, relying on the 2016 report by the Auditor-General for the Federation (AuGF), said the subsidy amount reflected in the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) was N443 billion, while the record presented by the PPPRA showed N563 billion. The report said from records made available at the Petroleum

Products Pricing and Regulatory Authority (PPPRA), it was observed that the sum of N121 billion was paid as outstanding subsidy commitments to oil marketers for 117 transactions in 2014. It said the sum of N441.9 billion was paid to oil marketers as subsidy commitments for 324 transactions in 2015. According to the report, “The amounts reflected in FAAC records at the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation (OAGF) of N443,940,559,974.80 as subsidy payments during the year 2016 is at variance with the total amount paid of N563,283,294,925.47 in the records of PPPRA as subsidy payments during the year 2016.

N’Assembly Pledges to Expunge Laws Infringing on Women’s Rights Deji Elumoye and Udora Orizu in Abuja The National Assembly yesterday expressed its readiness to amend the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to ensure gender parity, as well as enact laws to improve the fortunes of women and girls in Nigeria. This is just as the Senate also resolved to expunge provisions of the law as contained in the Police Act, Federal Character Law, Electoral Act, Labour Act, and Political Parties Constitutions, which infringe on the rights of women in the country.

The Red Chamber also urged the National Assembly and the federal government to forge positive visibility for women and celebrate women’s achievements, as well as domesticate all conventions and treaties of the African Union in respect of gender issues. These resolutions were sequel to the adoption of a motion on the 2021 International Women’s Day Celebration with the theme: ‘Women in Leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-l9 world #Choose to Challenge’, which was sponsored by Senator Betty Apiafi and seven other senators, six of which are women.

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The House of Representatives has decried attacks by bandits on over 30 villages in Isa/Sabon/ Birni federal constituency of Sokoto State at different times within the last one month, which has affected about 5,000 people. The House, therefore, appealed to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, as well as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief materials for the victims.

The resolution of the House followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Mohammed Bargaja at the plenary yesterday. While moving the motion, the lawmaker lamented that the attacks resulted in a variety of casualties ranging from death to bodily injuries and displacement of thousands of innocent victims from their homes, villages and took refuge in local government areas headquarters and neighbouring villages. Bargaja said: “Between 4,000

and 5,000 people in the federal constituency have been badly affected by the attacks in the 30 villages which include Bargaja, Modachi, Lugu, Danzanke, Gazau, Tozai, Satiru, Yantako, Kamaraura, Gebe, Gyan-Gyadi, Zabairawa, Garin Damo, Maikanwargi, Suntu, Mallamawa, Kwagwam, Burkusuma, Sangerawa and Dambuwa, to mention but a few.” He further expressed worry that on March 4, 2021, bandits also attacked Tara, Gatawa and Bargaja which resulted in the death of 21 people.

The lawmaker also noted that the bandits are now clearing all farmers produce, cash and food crops for the dry season farming which makes life unbearable for the victims. Meanwhile, the House has called on the security agencies to secure the release of Rev. Polycarp Zongo, who was kidnapped by Boko Haram insurgents. The resolution of the House was sequel to the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance by Hon. Dachung Bagos at the plenary yesterday.

APC Women Demand Equal Representation in Party’s Elective Positions Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen, has demanded an equal representation for women in elective positions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the ward level to the national level. This submission was contained in the memorandum submitted to the APC Constitution Review Committee when she led a high-level women delegation to the party secretariat yesterday

in Abuja. The minister was accompanied by the United Nations Country Representative, Comfort Lamptey; Chairman, House Committee on Electoral Matters, Hon. Aisha Duku; representative of the 100 Women Lobby Group and other Civil Society Organisations (CSOs). The APC women, therefore, demanded that the party devote at least 15 percent of the party’s annual budget to increase the

participation of women politics. The women demanded that “the party take conscious action in party structures and elections so as to ensure that no gender constitutes more than 60 percent from the ward to the national level. “The party should also ensure that no gender constitutes more than 60 percent of delegates and candidates in the final list after primaries.” The women also demanded that the party representatives

in the National Assembly support and facilitate electoral reforms to create a level-playing field for women’s effective participation in elective politics and governance in general. They further demanded that a party constitutional provision be instituted to provide for a right to initiate the recall of elected members involved in criminal activities, violence against women and girls or promoting discriminatory practices against women.

PFN President Cautions Politicians against Turning Nigeria to Failed State Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan The newly elected President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, has warned politicians not to turn Nigeria to a failed state by their actions, but should see political offices as avenues to serve the people. Oke gave the warning yesterday when he addressed

a press conference at the permanent site of the Precious Cornerstone University, Ibadan. He appealed to politicians to use their positions to move the country forward and see the forthcoming 2023 general elections as a call to duty, noting that jostling for elective positions is nothing but a call to duty to rescue Nigeria from downfall. The cleric stated further

that political leaders have failed Nigerians who are contending with myriad of challenges such as banditry, kidnapping, unemployment and insecurity that the country is enmeshed in. He said that Nigeria would have been a failed state before the 2015 elections if not for God’s intervention. Oke, however, advised politicians to strive to ensure

that the 2015 prediction of the United States of America (USA) that the country will break did not come to pass, stating that history will not be kind to them if this should happen. “So at this time, we should see the elections coming up in 2023 as a call to duty. It is a call to duty to rescue Nigeria from downfall; to prevent Nigeria from becoming a failed state.”

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

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N450m Fraud: A’Court Orders Retrial of former Minister, Bulama, Four Others Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri The Court of Appeal in Gombe State has ordered that the case involving a former Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Abdu Bulama and four others should

be reassigned to another Federal High Court for retrial. The former minister was arraigned by the Maiduguri Zonal Office of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), on Friday, May 29, 2018,

Medical Laboratory Scientists, Others Join James Sowole in Akure Healthcare delivery in government owned facilities in Ondo State deteriorated further yesterday as health the workers under the umbrella of Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), Ondo State Chapter, began an indefinite strike. The striking workers include medical laboratory scientists, Optometrists, physiotherapists, pharmacists, health information managers/officers, dieticians and radiographers. Medical doctors in the services of the state government have been on strike for weeks over the contentious payment of “percentage salaries” to workers by the state government. However, nurses in the services of the state government under the umbrella of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), just called off their

warning strikes over the same reason, but might embark on full strike to press home their demands any moment from now. The NUAHP directed its members to withdraw their services from all state owned health care facilities and hospitals indefinitely. The union had informed the government on the hardship being faced by its members due to the inability of the Ondo State government to pay salaries regularly and the eventual payment of 50 per cent as part payment of November salary. “The union, through a letter dated February 11, 2020, gave the government a 15-day ultimatum to settle among others the balance of 50 per cent of November salary. “The union also called for the payment of arrears of backlogs of salaries (December 2020 and January 2020), not forgetting the previous year’s outstanding salaries,” the NUAHP said.

before Justice Isa Hamman Dashen of the Federal High Court, Damaturu, Yobe State, on a seven count charge that bordered on money laundering to the tune of N450 million. Bulama was prosecuted alongside a former Commissioner for Integrated and Rural Development in Yobe State, Mr. Mohammed Kadai, and the Deputy Coordinator of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan Campaign Organisation, Mr. Abba Gana Tata, Mr. Muhammad Mamu and Mr. Hassan Ibn Jaks.

In the cause of the trial, the Counsel for the EFCC, Mr. Mukhtar Ali Ahmed, presented six witnesses and tendered several documents that were admitted in evidence by the court. At the close of the prosecution’s case, the defendants opted for a “no case submission” that was upheld by Justice Isa Hamman Dashen of the Federal High Court, who discharged and acquitted all the defendants. Dissatisfied with the ruling, the EFCC filed an appeal, asking

the appellate court to set aside the decision of the lower court. The Appeal Court in its judgment on March 3, 2021, upheld the argument of the EFCC that the lower court erred in discharging and acquitting the defendants. The judgment, which was read by Justice Tunde Awotoye, held that “the charge No. FHC/ DM/CR/25/2018 FRN VS DR. ABDU BULAMA & 4 OTHERS are ordered to be remitted back to the lower court to be reassigned to another Federal

High Court Judge other than Hon. Justice Isah H. Dashen to be heard de novo.” The court held that “…there is inferential evidence against the respondents, which should not be brushed aside. Investigations by the EFCC revealed that Bulama and co-defendants received and shared the said sum, which was provided by a former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison Madueke, to influence the outcome of the 2015 Presidential Election.

SECURITY ON THEIR MINDS…

L-R: Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli; Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, Governor Nasir el-Rufai; Commissioner for Internal Security, Mr. Samuel Aruwan; and outgoing Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, Kaduna, Air Vice Marshall Musa Mulhtar, at the presentation of the 2020 Kaduna State Security Incidents Report in Kaduna...yesterday

Bandits Have Challenged the Sovereignty of Nigeria, Secondus Renders Quarterly Account to PDP Board of Trustees Says Kaduna Gov Chuks Okocha in Abuja

John Shiklam in Kaduna Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has declared that bandits have challenged the sovereignty of Nigeria, and must therefore be wiped out. He reiterated that the state government would never negotiate with the criminals. According to the governor, the activities of the criminals have driven farmers from their land and shaken the confidence of the people. The governor, who stated this yesterday at the Government House in Kaduna while receiving the 2020 Security Report from the state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home

Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, warned that food security of Nigerians is seriously at risk in view of activities of criminal elements across the country. Kaduna is one of the states in the North-west region that is worst hit by activities of bandits and kidnappers, with communities being invaded and people being killed or abducted almost on a daily basis. El-Rufai said: “Banditry has severely impacted the rural economy and shaken the confidence of the citizens. “It has driven farmers from their land putting food security at risk; displaced communities, stolen property and deprived people of their right to life.

Ngige Mourns Medical Workers’ Union Scribe staff of the Federal Ministry of Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige has condoled with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on the death of the Secretary General of the Medical and Health Workers Union (MHWUN), Dr. Silas Adamu. Ngige, who also commiserated with MHWUN, described the tragic death of Adamu, his wife and daughter in a fatal road accident as very shocking and devastating. The minister in a statement signed by the Head of Public Relations, Mr. Charles Akpan expressed his deepest sympathies to the NLC, MHWUN and the immediate family of the deceased, “On behalf of the entire members and

Labour and Employment, I send my condolences and deepest sympathies to the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Medical and Health Workers Union (MHWUN) on the tragic death of its Secretary General, Dr. Silas Adamu, his wife and daughter, in a fatal auto crash along Kaduna-Abuja highway on Monday, March 8, 2021. “The news was very distressful and agonising to me. That his wife and daughter also lost their lives in the accident makes it more painful. I understand the pains and anguish that those who lost their loved ones are experiencing at this time. My thoughts and prayers are with the NLC family and the immediate family of the deceased.”

At an emergency meeting of the PDP Board of Trustees (BOT) held yesterday, the National Chairman of the party, Prince Uche Secondus rendered the party’s quarterly account of programmes and activities, stating that the party suspended three zonal congresses in the southwest, North-central and North-west to give room for more reconciliations. Also, the governors elected on the platform of the PDP are expected to hold an emergency

meeting today to review the activities of the party. This is coming as the Chairman of the PDP BoT, Senator Walid Jubrin urged members of the party at all levels to embrace peace and embark on reconciliations for the party to be victorious at the 2023 general election. Secondus who was represented at the emergency BoT by the Deputy National Chairman (North), Senator Nazif Suleiman told the meeting of the Board of Trustees that the party’s

NWC had to suspend the zonal congresses in Northwest, North-central and the South-west to enable a full and proper reconciliations among members. According to the representative of the national chairman who said that the congress in the North-central zone was suspended because of the crisis in Plateau, Nasarawa and Niger states, explained that the congress in the zone will take place before the commencement of Ramadan fast.

Also, he announced that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party suspended the zonal congress in the southwest to enable the party effect proper reconciliation between the various factions in Ekiti State Secondus said that he was happy to report to the BoT that the two main factions loyal to former Governor Ayo Fayose and Senator Biodun Olujimi in Ekiti State have resolved their squabbles, adding that the congress in the state will soon take place.

Nigeria Loses $235bn to Non-passage of PIB, Says Omo-Agege Deji Elumoye in Abuja Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has disclosed that Nigeria has lost $235 million due to the long delay in the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB). Omo-Agege, while delivering a keynote address yesterday on the Virtual #TNGPIBConfab, stated that an estimated $15 billion is lost annually as a result of the delay in passing the PIB. Quoting from a recent report by Nigeria Natural Resource Charter (NNRC), the Deputy

Senate President stressed that the delays, through different administrations, in enacting the PIB have cost the country an estimated $235 billion. He said: “All these underscore the urgent need to do what we should have done in 2008 to give Nigeria the great oil industry it deserves, when President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua saw the need to overhaul the existing petroleum laws. These include the Petroleum Act of 1969, the Petroleum Profit Tax Act of 1959, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation

(NNPC) Act 1977, among other legislations”. Omo-Agege explained that before the pandemic and oil slump, the petroleum industry was the backbone of the Nigerian economy. According to him, it is the highest contributor to the national wealth, accounting for about a third of our GDP, over 75 per cent of government revenues and 95 per cent of foreign exchange earnings. Highlighting the inputs of the Presidency and the Ninth National Assembly to ensure

passage of the bill this bill, Omo-Agege said: “The good news today is that help is on the way, as the 9th Assembly and the government of President Muhammadu Buhari, have boldly taken up the gauntlet and will soon enact the Petroleum Industry Bill 2020 into an Act. On the 29th of September last year, the government of President Muhammadu Buhari took a giant step forward in reforming the industry when he returned the Petroleum Industry Bill as an executive Bill to the National Assembly.

Kebbi Trains Health Workers on COVID-19 Vaccination Kebbi State Government, through the state Primary Healthcare Development Agency, has commenced the first phase training of health workers involved in COVID-19 vaccination. A two-day training of health personnel at the state level for the exercise commenced yesterday to be followed by induction of local

government health workers on the programme. Declaring the training programme open, the state Commissioner for Health and Chairman, Kebbi State Taskforce on COVID-19, Alhaji Jafar Muhammad, said the exercise was a prerequisite for the provision of COVID-19 vaccine by the federal government. The state government, he

said, had attached utmost importance to the training so that health workers would be acquainted with the necessary vaccination rudiments and procedures. In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the state governor on Media and Publicity, Yahaya Sarki, quoted the commissioner as saying that about 2.9 million eligible

people have been targeted to receive the vaccine in the state of which 2,289 health personnel would be involved in the vaccine administration. “An estimated 788 health personnel would be deployed in villages in the 225 wards of the 21 local government areas of the state to ensure the full vaccination coverage,” the commissioner said.

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

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$9.8m Fraud: EFCC Wants Charges against ex-NNPC GMD, Yakubu Alex Enuma in Abuja The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has gone to the Federal High Court Abuja, seeking to amend the charges it filed against a former Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mr. Andrew Yakubu. The anti-graft agency had dragged Yakubu before Justice

Ahmed Mohammed in 2017 on a six-count charge of fraud, after he admitted owning over $9.8 million cash found in a house which also belongs to him in Kaduna State. But at the resumed trial yesterday EFCC’s prosecution counsel, Ms. Halima Shehu, informed the Court of the application for amendment of the charge. “My Lord, the matter today is for continuation of trial;

I Didn’t Defraud FG, Says Buhari’s Daughter Mrs. Zahra Buhari-Indimi, one of the daughters of President Muhammadu Buhari has denied a report that she defrauded the federal government of any amount. In a letter written to an online news platform, which was dated March 8, 2021 and signed by her lawyer, Nasiru Aliyu (SAN), she accused the medium of “injurious defamation”. The publication had alleged that one Nasiru Danu wired N2.5billion out of the said N51billion to Buhari’s daughter through her “foundation”. However, in the letter written by her lawyers, Zahra said “no any foundation owned by her was transferred or credited with such money”.

The letter maintained that while she is truly the daughter of President Muhammadu Buhari, she has never perpetrated any fraud nor involved in any fraudulent activity. “Our client categorically states that she did not defraud the Federal Republic of Nigeria N51 Billion or N2.5 Billion or any sum of money at all in any way. “Our client is a law-abiding citizen and fulltime housewife supported by her husband.” Zahra demanded a retraction of the publication, and a public apology in three national dailies within seven days of receipt of the letter or she will “seek all remedies available in law”.

UI, LASU, UNILAG Ranked Among Top 800 World Varsities The University of Ibadan (UI), Lagos State University (LASU), and the University of Lagos (UNILAG) have ranked among the top 800 universities in the world, according to the 2021 Times Higher Education World University Ranking. According to the ranking, UI, LASU, and UNILAG emerged as first, second, and third, respectively in Nigeria. Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, was ranked fourth, followed by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), which came fifth; while the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), emerged sixth in Nigeria. UI ranked within 401-500th

bracket; LASU, 501–600th; and UNILAG 601–800th. Covenant University ranked within 801–1000th, while the UNN and OAU were placed 1001+. The University of Oxford tops the rankings for the fifth consecutive year, while mainland China’s Tsinghua University becomes the first Asian university to break into the top 20 under the current methodology (launched in 2011). The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2021 include more than 1,500 universities across 93 countries and regions.

however, we have an amended charge dated March 8, and filed on March 10, 2021. The application is brought pursuant to Section 216(1) and (2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015. We humbly apply for the application to be granted for us to amend the charge,” she said. She told the trial judge that she had tried to serve the amended charge on Yakubu through his counsel, AA Usman, but he refused service.

Usman admitted before the Court that he refused service of the application to amend the charge. “I do confirm that we refused service of what has been described as an amended charge this (Wednesday) morning. We did so with reasons”, Usman said. According to him, the April 24, 2020, judgment of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, had provided a guide on the trial.

“The case was remitted back to the trial court for the appellant to enter defence in respect of counts 3 and 4 of the charge, and not counts 3 and 4 of an amended charge.” Usman also submitted that the Court and parties in the matter were “bound to give effect to the order of the Court of Appeal which is extant.” He told the Court that the purpose of the amended charge was “to undermine” the appeal before the Supreme

Court in respect of the matter. Yakubu’s lawyer insisted that the proposed application by the EFCC counsel was a deliberate attempt to delay proceedings in the trial. “I urge the Court to refuse the proposed amendment and direct that the defendant who has finished testifying in chief and is being cross-examined be directed to enter the witness box to continue his evidence. The amendment is pre-judicial to say the least”, Usman said.

WOMEN AFFAIR...

L-R: Business Development Professional, Ms. Yewande Enobakhare; Founder/CEO, Bookings Africa, Ms. Fade Ogunro; Managing Director, Management Transformation Limited. Dr. Wuraola Abiola; Founder, Professional Women Roundtable, Ms. Ivana Osagie; Marketing and Corporate Communications Expert, Ms. Alero Ladipo; and the Chief Compliance Officer, Old Mutual Nigeria Limited, Ms. Derin Adefulu, during a press conference to mark the ‘International Women Day’ in Lagos…yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

AfDB Named the World’s Best Multilateral Financial Institution The African Development Bank (AfDB) has been named the “Best Multilateral Financial Institution in the world for 2021”. The prestigious US magazine, Global Finance, specialising in financial markets and investment banking, did the assessment and announced the award. It is a global recognition for the path breaking efforts of the Bank as it transforms itself into a solutions bank for Africa through a combination of its operations, knowledge services and investment positioning, which continue to help accelerate Africa’s development.

Just last month, Standard & Poor, a global rating agency affirmed the African Development Bank’s “AAA/A-1+” foreign currency issuer credit rating with a stable outlook. Also, about this time last year, the bank received the Environmental Finance’s 2020 bond of the year award - SSA category - for a successful one billion Norwegian Krone social bond issued in 2019. The award by Global Finance is an affirmation of the success of the operational strategy being pursued by the African Development Bank under the

leadership of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina. Adesina was unanimously re-elected to a second consecutive five-year term as President of the institution last year. “With widespread expectations of consolidation in multiple sectors and all around the world, investment banks will play a leading role in reshaping the world economy post-pandemic,” said Joseph D. Giarraputo, publisher and editorial director of Global Finance on announcing the winning list. “Companies need more than ever to understand the specialties

and skills that investment banks bring to the table. Global Finance awards are a valuable guide.” In 2020 the African Development Bank received broad recognition for responding swiftly to the needs of the African continent in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and for its pioneering role in the global social bond market. In October 2020, the African Development Bank was selected in a poll of global bond market players as the best issuer for its $3 billion dollar-denominated Fight Covid-19 social bond, issued on 27 March 2020.

Winners Emerge in EU SGBV Axxela Completes another 18km Gas Pipeline in Nigeria Short Video Competition Achieves first gas to Rite Foods factory Six winners have emerged in the short video competition on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) organized for Nigerians by the Delegation of European Union (EU) to Nigeria and ECOWAS. At a ceremony held at the Banquet Hall of the State House in Abuja, Miss Aimalohi Ojeamiren, a student of the University of Abuja took home the 2021 winning prize of 2020 iMAC editing suite. The second prize of MAC laptop was won by Miss Doris Okorie while the third prize of DSLR Canon Camera went to Miss Anita Abada. David Nkwa; Obunoluwa Oluwarinu and Ms. Twammsen Danaan, who placed fourth, fifth and sixth position got cash prizes. In his opening remarks, the Head of EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Ketil Karlsen commended the finalists, saying the European Union was happy to stimulate

the awareness and creativity of Nigerians on issues of genderbased violence through its short video competition. Karlsen said he was pleased that despite the constraints and challenges occasioned by COVID-19 pandemic, the EU received 685 entries, all creatively put together to illustrate the competitors’ understanding of sexual and gender-based violence and ways to eliminate it in society. “To all six of you that have emerged finalists, I would like to congratulate you. If out of 685 entries you were able to make it to the top six, you are no doubt, already a winner,” Karlsen said. While applauding all the participants for their exceptional brilliance, he urged all distinguished participants to remember to listen to young Nigerians and victims of gender-based violence.

Dike Onwuamaeze

Axxela Limited via its subsidiary Transit Gas Nigeria Limited (TGNL), and in partnership with the Nigerian Gas Marketing Company Limited (NGMC) a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), its long-time strategic partner, has successfully commissioned an 18km gas pipeline system in Ogun State. The 150mmscfd pipeline runs from Ibefun to Rite Foods Limited’s large-scale factory in Ososa, Ogun State. First gas has been delivered through this pipeline to Rite Foods Limited, the manufacturer of Bigi Drinks, Rite and Bigi Sausages, and Fearless Energy Drinks. With consistent gas supply, the fast-moving consumer goods company will achieve significant energy cost-savings.

Speaking on the project commissioning, Axxela’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Bolaji Osunsanya highlighted the company’s commitment to growth and industrialisation. “This venture is in firm alignment with our near-to-long term market expansion strategy, and emphasises our push to broaden our asset portfolio and strengthen our market play within the gas sector. Axxela/NGMC pioneered gas distribution in the Greater Lagos area, and our present positioning enables us significantly increase our industrial and commercial client footprint across the south-western corridor. By providing the gas advantage, we are enabling the development of self-sustaining industrial clusters to bolster Nigeria’s industrialisation and socioeconomic empowerment.” The Sagamu Gas Distribution Zone

(SGDZ) development is a joint venture between NGMC and TGNL (the NGMC/TGNL JV) which commenced operations in 2019 by delivering gas to growing industrial users including Apple & Pears Limited, West Africa Soy Industries Limited, Uraga Power Solutions Limited, Emzor Pharmaceuticals Industries Limited and Coleman Technical Industries Limited. Speaking on the NGMC/TGNL JV and the new pipeline grid, NGMC Managing Director, Mr. Faruk Usman said: “As part of our strategy, we are delighted to pioneer and implement initiatives with private players, which is a clear indication of our willingness to collaborate and ensure the success of Nigeria’s Gas Expansion Programme. The SGDZ will contribute to the development of Sagamu and its environs by

facilitating industrial growth, cleaner energy generation, and fostering community employment through gas availability.” In line with Axxela’s and NGMC’s commitment to the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) Performance Standards, Corporate Social Responsibility projects have been implemented across the host communities of the operation. Axxela is a Helios Investment Partners LLP portfolio company, and the first privately-owned designated natural gas shipper on the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP). Axxela is also the pioneering private sector-led developer of natural gas distribution in Nigeria, delivering at peak 80 million standard cubic feet per day to over 180 industrial and commercial clients via a vast network of gas infrastructure.

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

THURSDAYSPORTS

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

Edo Govt Dismisses Claim by Federal Sports Ministry on Renovation of Gymnasium Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City The Edo State Government Wednesday denied the claim by the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports Development that the renovation of the gymnasium and multipurpose hall at Etete area in Benin City was carried out by the apex sports authorities.

Edo State Deputy Governor, Mr. Philip Shaibu, flayed the claim when he led officials of the state government on inspection of the gymnasium and multipurpose hall. He expressed dismay over the erection of a signpost at the site indicating that the project was undertaken by the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports Development.

Shaibu declared that the renovation of the sports edifice was completed by the Edo State Government in preparation for the hosting of the 2020 National Sports Festival, noting

that the contractor will be invited to explain the rationale behind erecting the sign post at the project site. The deputy governor ordered the immediate

removal of the sign post and arrest of any person connected with the said renovation. On the hosting of the National Sports Festival, Shaibu assured that the

Edo State Government is ready for the sports fiesta, noting however, that it all depends on when the Federal Government is ready to fulfil its side of the bargain.

C A F C O N F E D E R AT I O N C U P

Enyimba Defeat Libya’s Al Ahly Benghazi to Claim Maximum Points Duro Ikhazuagbe Nigeria’s last team standing in continental campaign this season, Enyimba FC began their CAF Confederation Cup group stage with 2-1 victory over Libya’s Al Ahly Benghazi in Aba yesterday. Winners of the CAF Champions League in 2003 and 2004 Enyimba started the game and the mini league stage on a high, as they want to write a new page in their history. Captain of the People’s Elephant, Austine Oladapo gave the Abia State owned club the lead after just 10 minutes. The celebration didn’t last long as the visitors drew level from the spot through Abdallah Imhamed on 18 minutes. Victor Mbaoma restored

Enyimba’s lead two minutes before the break. ES Setif of Tunisia and South Africa’s Orlando Pirates clashed in the other Group A game late last night. The Aba giants will face Orlando Pirates in their next group game on March 17. Elsewhere, at Stade Taib Mhiri in Sfax, Tunisia, CS Sfaxien fought for a narrow 1-0 victory at home over Burkinabe side Salitas. Aymen Harzi’s scored the game’s lone winner from the penalty spot, as the record three time CAF Confederation Cup winners started their campaign with maximum points. The other Group C match will pit Etoile du Sahel (Tunisia) against ASC Jaraaf (Senegal).

Man Utd Host Milan in Europa League Live on StarTimes Things are getting tense in UEFA Europa League as the round of 16 first leg matches hold this evening Live on StarTimes. Manchester United will go into today’s UEFA Europa League round of 16 first leg against AC Milan on the back of last weekend’s Premier League victory in the Manchester derby. Any match between AC Milan and Manchester United in a European competition is worthy of a final. Another English club, Spurs are at home in their first leg match against Dinamo Zagreb. Tottenham coach, Jose Mourinho will be hoping that his attacking line-up of Gareth Bale, Harry Kane and Son Heung-Min continue their fine form. Kane scored two against Crystal Palace and provided two assists, Bale score the other two, with the South Korean international providing an assist over the weekend

in the English premier league. The third English team remaining in the competition, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s Arsenal, saw their first leg match against Greek club, Olympiacos moved to Athens as UEFA regulations state that no two clubs should play home games in the same city on the same day. Football fans throughout Africa will not miss any of the most exciting Europa League action as the best games will be shown live and exclusive on the StarTimes sports channels in HD. “Fans can pay-per-day to catch all the actions. Classic Bouquet (Antenna decoder) is N320 per day while Super Bouquet (dish decoder) is N400 per day,” observed StarTimes in a statement. CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PSG 1-1 Barcelona Liverpool 2-0 Leipzig

Enyimba players celebrating picking the ﬁrst three points of Group A of the CAF Confederation Cup playoﬀ stage in Aba... yesterday

AFCON 2022

Rohr Clarifies Why ‘Non-playing Captain’ Musa was Invited to Camp Super Eagles Head Coach, Gernot Rohr, has thrown more lights on the reason why club-less captain of the team, Ahmed Musa was included in the 24-man rooster for the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin and Lesotho. The inclusion of the 28-year old Nigerian with highest four goals at the FIFA World Cup in the final team list has generated criticism from a section of the local media and trending on all digital platforms.

But the Franco-German gaffer explained that Ahmed Musa was given an honorary place in Nigeria’s squad and is not expected to play. Since leaving Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr in October last year, Musa has not played competitive game for five months. The Super Eagles Coach was forced to clarify and defend Musa’s non-playing role as the 24th player. “It’s important to clarify that Musa is not in the

competitive list of 23 players for our game against Benin and Lesotho,” Rohr told BBC Sport Africa on Wednesday. “We’ve invited Musa as the captain by making him the 24th player, but he is not as part of the 23 on the list that will play our two matches. “What is important now is to focus on the games ahead and not to be distracted by anything else. We hope for all our players to be fit and travel down safely for the matches.”

However Saudi Arabiabased striker Odion Ighalo is not included in the squad as he continues to consider a request from Rohr to come out of international retirement. On the final match day, Nigeria will host Lesotho in the commercial city of Lagos on 30 March. Three-time continental champions Nigeria currently top Group L on eight points, one ahead of Benin while Sierra Leone have three points and Lesotho two.

Brazil’s Iconic Maracana Stadium to be Named after Pele Brazil’s iconic Maracana Stadium is to be named in honour of the country’s legendary footballer Pele. The move follows a vote by the Rio de Janeiro state legislature to change the venue’s name to the Edson Arantes do Nascimento Rei Pele stadium. Edson Arantes do Nascimento is the 80-yearold’s full name, while Rei means king in Portuguese. The Rio de Janeiro’s state governor must approve the name change before it becomes official.

Pele, who won three World Cups as a player for Brazil, scored his 1,000th goal at the stadium in 1969 when playing for Santos against Vasco da Gama. The Maracana held the 1950 and 2014 World Cup finals, as well as the opening ceremony of the 2016 Olympics. More than 200,000 spectators are reported to have been in the stadium to watch Uruguay beat Brazil in the 1950 final, although its capacity is now 78,838. It was named after Mario

Pele...to be honoured with iconic Maracana Stadium named after him

Filho, a journalist who lobbied for its construction in the 1940s, but was

known as the Maracana after the area in which it is located.

THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

ThursdaySports

Capello Slams Ronaldo for Juventus’ Exit from UCL Former England boss Fabio Capello has slammed Cristiano Ronaldo for his ‘unforgivable’ defending that saw 10-man Porto score a dramatic late free-kick to send Juventus crashing out of the Champions League. The Portuguese side were

awarded a free-kick from 35 yards out in the 115th minute of extra time, which saw Sergio Oliveira line up a hit-and-hope shot towards Juventus’ goal. With the scores level on aggregate at 3-3 and the game heading to penalties, Juventus, with a man advantage, were

‘Reformed 36-team Champions League Devastating for English Football’ Crystal Palace Chairman, Steve Parish, has said that the proposed UEFA Champions League reforms would have “a devastating effect” on English football. UEFA’s proposal would see 100 more matches and four extra dates created for European fixtures before Christmas. Parish has voiced his disapproval over the plans, which will inevitably threaten the status of the EFL Cup. “It feels like we’re expected to accept these proposals because they are not as bad as they could have been,” he said. “This would have a devastating effect on domestic competitions in England. The League Cup is the largest financial contributor to the Football League and this will either be the end of that cup in its entirety or reduce it to a youth competition. “For clubs like us, it’s very difficult to understand where you have a voice in these conversations. We feel very remote from the decisionmaking.” Parish was speaking at the European Leagues meeting that was held on Wednesday morning. Despite invites being sent to all Europe’s major clubs, none of them took the opportunity to speak.

English Football League (EFL) Chairman, Rick Parry, who also spoke at the meeting, said the loss of the EFL Cup would strip away a third of his organisation’s revenue and present “a very real threat” to the existence of some clubs. Earlier this week, European Club Association (ECA) chairman Andrea Agnelli said he expects agreement over a 36-team competition to be reached within a fortnight. Instead of eight groups of four playing six games each as is currently the case, all teams would play 10 matches against opponents of varying strengths and decided on each club’s Uefa ranking, with those results then forming one overall table. Discussions are continuing over the precise structure of the competition, particularly the allocation of the four additional places. The proposals are expected to put an end to discussion over a European Super League, but issues still remain. Although they accept there is merit in the system, the European Leagues will continue to argue against the exclusivity of UEFA dates and also the plan to allocate two of the additional four places from the current 32-team group stage on the basis of historical co-efficient instead of where they finish in the league table.

No Decision on Aguero Contract Until Summer, Says Guardiola Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said a decision on record scorer Sergio Aguero’s contract situation will not be made until the end of the season. Argentine Aguero has made just 11 appearances in all competitions this season

Sergio Aguero...no decision on contract until end of season

due to injury and Covid-19. The 32-year-old made his first start in four months in City’s 2-1 Premier League win over West Ham United last month but was an unused substitute in subsequent games against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester United. Aguero, who joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011, will be out of contract at the end of the campaign and Guardiola said negotiations over a new deal would have to wait until the summer. “We are going to talk to him (Aguero) as a human being, as a person and, of course, as a player,” Guardiola said. “We will have to see what happens at the end of the season. “I think the club has spoken with his agent and they know the situation.” City, who are 11 points clear of Manchester United, host Southampton later on Wednesday.

on the front foot and set up a three-man wall to stop the hopeful set-piece from reaching their goal. With a long run up, Oliveira struck the ball low and hard towards the bottom left corner of Wojciech Szczesny’s goal, which saw Ronaldo turn away from the strike while parting his legs in a lazy attempt to block the ball. A caught off guard Szczesny was unable to keep the ball from going in, and despite a fourth goal from Juventus to make it 3-2 on the night to Andrea Pirlo’s side, it wasn’t enough, leaving Porto to pull off a miraculous win, going through on away goals in Turin after drawing 4-4 on aggregate.

In the aftermath of the fivegoal thriller, Ronaldo has been blamed for his role in Porto’s winner, with Capello one of his harshest critics. “That was an unforgivable error,” Capello said in his role as Sky Sport Italia pundit. “In my day, you chose the players who went into the wall and they couldn’t be someone afraid of the ball. They were scared of the ball and jumped away from it, turning their backs. That’s unforgivable.” Rio Ferdinand and Robbie Savage also slammed Ronaldo’s decision to turn his back on Oliveira’s strike. Ferdinand told BT Sport: “All three of them were at fault – turning their back and

jumping out of the way. “The whole thing was a catalogue of errors.” Savage on commentary couldn’t believe what he saw from the former Manchester United and Real Madrid icon: “Watch the wall, the wall jumps, it goes through Ronaldo’s legs and turns his back!” Speaking on commentary for talkSPORT, former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O’Hara said: “Pirlo will be livid, Ronaldo turned his back completely. “It goes through his legs completely and leaves Szczesny with no chance. “You don’t want to see that from your top player, not in those moments. You’re relying

on your wall to do a job there.” Juventus boss Pirlo was perplexed at his talisman’s decision to turn his back in the wall, claiming his players didn’t think the free-kick was dangerous. “We choose the players to go in the wall. It had never happened before that they’d turn around, maybe they felt it was so far out that they didn’t sense the danger,” Pirlo said. “It was a mistake, it usually doesn’t happen, the players didn’t feel it was a dangerous situation and conceded a goal.” It is yet another disappointing European campaign for Juventus, whose wait for Champions League glory goes on

Cristiano Ronaldo has been blamed for Juve’s ouster from UEFA Champions League

Fletcher Appointed Technical Director in Man Utd Shake-up Former Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher has been appointed as the club’s Technical Director in a major revamp of the Premier League side’s football operations, it was announced on Wednesday. The shake-up will also include John Murtough being promoted to the role of Football Director. Fletcher, 37, returned to Old Trafford in January to join manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s coaching set-up. United’s player recruitment policy has attracted criticism with fans often pointing the finger of blame at executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward for some expensive flops such as

Darren Fletcher...gets new role at Old Traﬀord Marouane Fellaini and Memphis Depay. Under the new structure

Murtough will have “overall leadership and responsibility for operations and strategy across all football functions” the club said, while Fletcher will work closely with him to add technical input and direction and provide a link between the Academy and the first team. While Solskjaer will remain heavily involved in identifying new players, a new role of Director of Football Negotiations will also be undertaken by Matt Judge. “We have already made great strides forward in the way we run our football operations, and the benefits are visible in the resurgent pipeline of Academy

talent reaching the first team and through our improved recruitment record,” Woodward said. “John has been integral to our progress in all these areas and his deep understanding of development ensures the club’s traditions of bringing young players through from Academy to first team will continue. This new position is a natural evolution that harnesses his leadership qualities.” Former Scotland international Fletcher spent 12 years at United, making 223 Premier League appearances and winning five titles as well as the Champions League and Club World Cup.

NBA, Basketball Africa League Launch Gender Equality Initiatives in Africa In commemoration of International Women’s Day, the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) have announced the launch of several initiatives to advance gender equality and economic inclusion across Africa. The initiatives build on the NBA family’s collective efforts to advance equality and social justice in the United States, including the establishment of the NBA Foundation and the National Basketball Social Justice Coalition last year. In Africa, the NBA’s and the BAL’s efforts will focus on raising awareness of genderbased violence, supporting girls’

education and growing female participation in basketball at all levels. The leagues will each use their individual platforms and resources to promote gender equality among fans and key stakeholders, and collaborate with corporate and community partners on new programmes and capacity-building initiatives that help minimize the gender gap across both leagues’ operations. Additionally, the NBA and the BAL are seeking to work and partner more African-owned enterprises across their business activities on the continent. “Social responsibility has been an integral part of the NBA’s youth development efforts on

the continent for more than three decades,” said NBA Africa CEO Victor Williams. “Following the establishment of the NBA Foundation and the National Basketball Social Justice Coalition in the U.S. and building on our broader efforts to help create a more equal and just society, the NBA and the BAL each look forward to deepening their engagements with partners, community leaders and other stakeholders to advance gender equality and create a more inclusive economic environment in Africa.” “The Basketball Africa League is committed to fighting the stereotypes, prejudices and

barriers that too often prevent women in Africa from realizing their dreams,” said BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall. “These initiatives will help ensure that young girls and women across the continent have the opportunities and resources that will help them grow on the court and in life.” Specific actions and programming the NBA and BAL will implement over the next three years include: Addressing genderbased violence through educational workshops, participation in anti-violence campaigns, and by leveraging the influence and leadership of the leagues’ players;

Thursday, March 11, 2021

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“It is not about dancing on the streets, but they should develop their capacity. I am worried about the situation where anything that appears contrary to what labour wants, the next thing is to go on strike. My belief is that the main business of labour is negotiation and negotiation is about applying knowledge and information that you have.” – Director General of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, challenging Labour leaders stance on decentralizing minimum wage structure.

OLUSEGUNADENIYI THE VERDICT

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

A Matter of Life and Death

ast night in Ilorin, Kwara State, I attended the posthumous 72nd birthday of Prof. Mary Ebun Modupe Kolawole and will be at the Wake Keep/Commendation service this evening. The late Professor of Literature and Women’s Studies and her husband, also a Professor but of Microbiology, were my guardians at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife in the late 80s. After 28 years at Ife where she became the first woman professor of English in the faculty of arts, Mrs Kolawole retired in year 2000 to join the Kwara State University (KWASU) as a contract professor and later, Head of Department of Languages and Literary Studies. She was also the foundation Dean of Post Graduate Studies until she left KWASU in 2017. In her seminal work, ‘Womanism and African Consciousness’, Mrs Kolawole had challenged the notion that African women are ‘voiceless’ while defining ‘womanism’ as the “totality of feminine self-expression, self-retrieval, and self-assertion in positive cultural ways.” The passage of Mrs Kolawole is one of several deaths I have had to come to terms with in the past few months. Young or old, death has struck without discrimination. Some died after a few days in the hospital. Some were involved in accidents. Some just died. I have had to attend more burials than I can remember doing at any point in the past. Incidentally, I imagined it was only me until I had a recent discussion with a group of friends. One said, “If you hear anybody ask, ‘can you remember so and so person?’, you can bet that the next line would be to announce that the person is dead.” Another said, “The commonest phrase these days is, ‘I have just lost someone’ given the rate at which now die.” So, it is as if death has just descended upon our world. Meanwhile, yesterday marked the second year anniversary of the Ethiopian Airlines Flight crash which

Kolawole... 1949 to 2021 claimed 302 lives, including my friend, Prof Pius Adebola Adesanmi. Let’s be clear. Death is never far away from us in Nigeria. Even before the arrival of COVID-19, a string of untimely, and sometimes brutal, deaths from preventable causes had become our lot as a nation. For instance, hundreds of people die annually from electrocution. In a single incident in Port Harcourt in 2010, no fewer than 25 people were killed when, after a heavy rainfall, a cable fell onto a bus and electrocuted passengers and passers-by. I cannot remember the number of times heavy duty containers have skidded off some Lagos bridge, landing on vehicles and crushing to death unfortunate passengers. Again and again, fuel tanker drivers lose control after brake failure, crash and explode, leaving other road users trapped in infernos that have consumed

thousands of our people over the years. Hardly a week passes without a report of death on our waterways where poor vessel maintenance, poor lighting during night voyages, overloading of boats as well as navigational and human errors combine to make water travel in Nigeria a dangerous gamble. Buildings still collapse every other day and take with them several of our citizens, with no consequence for culprits. The Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) was indicted for “criminal negligence” that led to the death of 116 persons in September 2016 when an uncompleted building collapsed. But nothing has happened to the promoters of the church who are evidently above the law. Six of the victims remain unidentified while 85 were South Africans, 22 Nigerians, two Beninoise and two Togolese nationals. With everyone providing their own electricity through I-Better-Pass-My-Neighbour generator, carbon monoxide (a dangerous invisible, odourless and colourless gas) is still killing Nigerians in their homes, including in some cases, entire families. From lead poisoning to ‘kerosene explosion’, I can go on and on to list the way death stalks our country. However, while life remains cheap in Nigeria, at least we are beginning to pay more attention to our mortality. At no period in history has one been more conscious of death than now. This of course is a global thing. In her piece in January this year, ‘Death Was a Theory, Until I Became a Mother’, Danielle LaSusa recounted an experience with her three three-year-old daughter who shoved a large wad of dental floss into her mouth. “My pulse spiked as I begged her to spit it out. When she grinned and shook her head, I stuck my finger into her mouth to pry her jaws open — like a dog I didn’t want to take to the vet for surgery. With the floss safely in the trash can, I gave a breathless admonition.

“Don’t do that, honey. I’m serious. It could be very dangerous,” LaSusa recounted. When her daughter said with childlike innocence, “But I am not going to die”, she retorted sharply: “You might”. It was that interjection and the regret that followed which provoked the piece in question. The coronavirus crisis, and its cascade of consequences, according to LaSusa, has everyone thinking about death these days. She reflected on a mother-daughter relationship at a time like this: “As a doctor of philosophy who studied existentialism, I’ve been thinking about death for quite a while now. Suddenly, everyday items — blankets, car seats, bookcases, stairs, uncut grapes — became threats. ‘Don’t run in the street, you could get hurt. Don’t rush down the stairs, you could get hurt. Don’t get near the pool, you could get hurt.’ What I really meant was: You could die. It seemed harsh and unfair to introduce a toddler to the concept of her own death before she could even tie her own shoes. But how could you explain the dangers a pre-schooler might face without bringing up the notion of mortality?” After her narrative as to how conscious we all are now of death, perhaps because we have heard too many stories on the subject in recent days, LaSusa concludes on a sobering note: “Death has come sooner than expected for many this past year, and perhaps by learning to embrace this fragile and exquisite life, while we have it, we might recognize that death has been part of the deal all along. Well before this pandemic started, and long after it ends, new parents will help children not only to walk and talk, but to survive; they are grappling not only with bottles and diapers, but with life and death.” NOTE: Piece concluded on page 15

Bishop David Abioye @ 60

n his book, ‘Spiritual Apprentices’ which deals with the concepts, process, demands, pitfalls, and rewards of Ministry, Bishop David Olatunji Abioye speaks to a very serious issue in Christendom today in which everybody ‘answers the call of God’ without any preparation or training. “If a mechanic is not accredited to handle pieces of iron and plastic until he has been through a regulated, concerted, and well-defined time frame of apprenticeship, why should we ever assume that an individual called to carry an assignment that deals with human destinies can jump into duty without training?”, he asks. That he is now the 1st Vice President, Living Faith Church Worldwide and Senior Pastor of Living Faith Church, Goshen City—a 15,000 capacity edifice in Abuja, sitting on a 740-acre of land, with over 30,000 worshippers every Sunday—is a reward for Abioye’s uncommon faithfulness not only to God but also to the man he sees as his spiritual father. It takes a man of integrity to say that his God-given assignment is to ensure the fulfillment of another man’s ministry. He met Bishop David Oyedepo in January 1980 at a Campus Christian Fellowship when he was just 19 and the relationship has blossomed over decades. Despite his own stature as a respected

Abioye man of God, Abioye is content to serve in what he describes as a ‘supportive ministry’ while Oyedepo “deals with major issues. I look into smaller issues to prevent distraction. In all, little or big, I am doing what I’m assigned to, under his calling.” Abioye has always argued that clerics should not clamour to be president or founder of a church if God did not directly call them. For the past 41 years, he has followed Bishop Oyedepo

whom he regards as his mentor and spiritual father despite the fact that there are only six and a half years between them. As the Bishop therefore clocks 60 today, there is no doubt that he is a study in true apprenticeship, stewardship and loyalty, a man whose life and teachings exemplify practical Christianity. In a country where many now found their own church in a manner almost akin to establishing a family business, it is a testimony to the character of Bishop Abioye that he has remained a ‘Winner’. By that, he has demonstrated the genuineness of his call to discipleship and servanthood, as demonstrated by our Lord Jesus Christ. In addition to his work of ministry, Bishop Abioye is also socially relevant. He and his wife have rendered educational support by renovating classrooms in a number of government and community schools and building new ones as well as supplying furniture and books within communities around Goshen in Nasarawa State. He also inspired and mobilized others in his home town, Erin-Ile in Kwara State, to establish the Moje College of Education. It is typical of the Bishop that he would seek an intervention in the most critical yet neglected area of our national life. As a man whose ministry is about building the

total man, I could understand why the Bishop sought to address the current state of our education, with the aim of fixing it, starting with the training of teachers. At the formal inauguration of the school in April 2018, I was the guest speaker. “When they say three successive generations cannot be poor, as we often say in Yorubaland, we must qualify the saying. Ten generations can be poor if nobody seeks knowledge. The only weapon to break such a generational curse is education. And there can be no education without teachers. Therefore, the significance of this initiative is that it targets the root of the malaise in our educational system and we must commend Bishop Abioye and others for their efforts,” I said at the occasion. On a personal note, my family has been thoroughly enriched by our association with Bishop Abioye in the past 14 years. Since our arrival in Abuja in 2007, he and his wife, Mary, have taken us under their spiritual wings. They have not only been concerned about our spiritual well-being, they have shown so much care about our material welfare as well. Although we do not attend their church, we buy and listen to the tapes of his sermons that are always inspiring. As he clocks 60 today, I can only wish the Bishop a memorable birthday!

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