THURSDAY 10TH AUGUST 2023

Dangote Hails Tinubu’s Quest to Ramp Up Tax Collection, Block Revenue Leakages Expresses confidence in Oyedele-led committee, harps on need to widen tax net, digitalise system Says Dangote Group pays more tax than entire banking industry Reveals Dangote Cement pays $300m weekly as VAT FG plans to make FIRS sole revenue collection agency Obinna Chima in Lagos and James Emejo in Abuja President of Dangote Group, Alhaji

Aliko Dangote, has commended President Bola Tinubu for inaugurating the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms,

led by renowned tax expert, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele. Dangote expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to help improve the federal govern-

ment’s non-oil revenue and block avenues of revenue leakage.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with THISDAY, yesterday, Dangote

also urged the committee to widen the country’s tax net, so as to reduce pressure on those that had over the years been committed to the payment

of taxes.

The commendation from Africa’s Continued on page 9

Thursday 10 August, 2023 Vol 28. No 10347. Price: N250

www.thisdaylive.com TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

GlaxoSmithKline: NECA, NACCIMA Lament Business Closures in Nigeria... Page 5

WHO Declares New COVID-19 StrainVariant of Interest Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared a new strain of Covid-19 as a variant of interest.

However, the organisation said the new COVID-19 variant does not constitute high public health risk.

The variant, known as EG.5 or “Eris”, is related to an Omicron subvariant called XBB.1.9.2, and is growing in prevalence globally.

Among the countries where the new strain has been found are the UK, China and United States WHO said the variant does not

pose a particular threat, adding that, “based on the available evidence, the public health risk posed by EG.5 is evaluated as low at the global level."

According to WHO, the risk associated with this new COVID-19 strain appeared to be at par with other circulating variants of interest.

“While EG.5 has shown increased prevalence, growth advantage, and immune escape properties, there have been no reported changes in disease severity to date,” the WHO added.

WHO listed a number of actions it recommended member states

prioritise to better understand antibody escape and severity of EG.5, including monitoring for changes in indicators of severity.

Professor of operational research at University College London, Christina Pagel, was quoted as having said that while the variant

was growing in prevalence and appeared to be better at evading the immune system, allowing it to outcompete other variants, there was no evidence that it caused more severe disease.

Continued on page 9

Diplomacy Back on Table as Sanusi Meets Niger Coup Leader, Tinubu ECOWAS may consider one-year military transition and elections Muslim clerics step in to help further diplomatic resolution Nigerien politicians write president, want sanctions lifted Catholic bishops warn against repeating Libya's experience Address causes of coups in W’Africa, Falana tells leaders Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Kingsley Nwezeh, Michael Olugbode, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja, Gboyega Akinsanmi and Wale Igbintade in Lagos The push for a diplomatic solution to the Nigerien political crisis might have gained some traction in the standoff between ECOWAS and the Niger

coup leaders. This is following the intervention of a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and 14th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi, who yesterday, stepped into the fray by first meeting with the military ruler of Niger Republic, Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, and later, Continued on page 9

Mary Odili Refutes Alleged Plan SANUSI MEETS NIGER COUP LEADERS...

Former Emir Of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi ll, military leader of Niger Republic, General Abdourahmane Tchiani and the Sultan of Damagaram in to Influence Tribunal Judges... Page 8 L-R: Niger, Sultan Abubakar Oumarou Sanda during Sanusi’s meeting with coup leader in Niamey, Niger Republic…. yesterday

2

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 •T H I S D AY

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 • T H I S D AY

3

4

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 •T H I S D AY

5

THURSDAY, ͹͸˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ T H I S D AY

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0809 7777 322, 0807 401 0580

NEWS

SUPREME SHARIA COUNCIL VISITS...

L-R Professor Khalid Abubakar Aliyu; Mallam Nafiu Baba Ahmed; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Chief of staff, Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila during the visit of members of Supreme Council PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI of Sharia in Nigeria to the Presidential Villa, Abuja...yesterday.

GlaxoSmithKline: NECA, NACCIMA Lament Business Closures in Nigeria Say some of Tinubu’s economic policies having adverse effect on certain sectors Dike Onwuamaeze Few days after GlaxoSmithKline announced its exit from Nigeria, Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) and Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) have expressed concern over the rising trend of closure of businesses, especially in the industrial sector of the Nigerian economy.

NECA and NACCIMA, in separate press statements yesterday, blamed the closures on the declining ease of doing business in Nigeria and some recent economic policies of the President Bola Tinubu administration.

Expressing deep concern over the increasing exodus of multinational companies from Nigeria, National President of NACCIMA, Mr. Dele Kelvin Oye, stated that the recent announcement of GlaxoSmithKline's exit from Nigeria dealt a major blow to the country's manufacturing sector, which he said was already experiencing significant collapse among its local businesses.

Oye said while the Tinubu administration had commendably set Nigeria on a long-term path to economic progression, “it has been noted that some of the immediate positive economic policies of President Ahmed Tinubu have had an adverse effect on certain sectors of the country.

“In particular, the sudden rise in the price of petrol and abolition of the official Naira rate has caused a significant backlash, eroding the already

earned income and trading capital of several multinational companies that had established their previous earnings based on the official naira rate at the time.

“As a result, there has been a steady exodus of multinational companies and the collapse of several local companies, resulting in significant job losses and economic damage.”

NACCIMA urged the government to urgently review the short-term effect of its economic policies as it related to commitments already concluded for remittances/raw materials by the affected companies/businesses to reverse the trend of companies leaving Nigeria.

He said, “We call on the government to focus on creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive and provide access to single-digit short and long-term financing to reduce the cost of doing business.

“The government should prioritise investments in infrastructure and power supply, provide tax incentives to encourage businesses to invest in Nigeria, and improve the ease of doing business by reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks.

“Furthermore, NACCIMA urges the government to work collaboratively with the private sector to develop policies that will stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities in the country.

“We firmly believe that with the right policies in place, Nigeria's economy can be revitalised and the country can become a hub for business

and investment in Africa.

“In conclusion, it is crucial for the government to take urgent action to reverse the trend of companies leaving Nigeria and restore confidence in all sectors of the economy.”

Similarly, Director General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, in a press statement titled, “Rising Rate of Business Divestment, Capital Flight and Business Closure in Nigeria - NECA Raises Alarm,” noted that the recent trend of business relocations and divestments was unfortunate.

Oyerinde stated that over the last decade, the private sector had been

adversely affected by various policy thrusts of government.

“Many of these policies were either anti-growth, ill-timed or notwell thought out, while others were not in alignment with the country’s economic realities,” he said.

Oyerinde explained, “In more complex cases, we witnessed an era of policy clashes and contradictions, regulatory and legislative strangulation of businesses, which left many companies without a clear path for planning and decision making.

Operational costs have increased astronomically, heaping more woes on

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, yesterday, charged officers and men of the Nigerian army to continue to protect the nation’s democracy.

He also said the officers and men of the 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Ibadan, have been contributing hugely to ensuring the security of lives and properties of residents of the state.

He therefore, reiterated his call on soldiers to look out for and guard the nation's democracy and stay true to their military calling by being professional and maintaining the nation's territorial integrity.

Makinde stated these when he received the new General Officer Commanding of the 2 Division

Nigerian Army, Major-General Valentine Okoro, at the Courtesy Room of the Governor's Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

"I want to welcome the GOC to our state. Again, I will always appreciate the Nigerian Army but, especially, our officers and men of the 2 Division for your contribution to keeping us safe and secure in Oyo State," the governor said.

Makinde, who stated that with the concerted efforts of all security agencies and the cooperation of the officers and men of the Division, his administration has been able to stay on top of many security challenges including kidnapping, banditry and other crimes, added that his administration would continue to maintain a cordial

move to other more profitable and hospitable environments.

“Inadvertently, the country loses income from taxes, social investment is hindered and poverty holds sway,” he said.

Oyerinde stated, “It is germane that government must take urgent steps to arrest this predicament. While we acknowledge and commend the current administration's effort to address the concerns of the private sector and the steps it took to provide some respite to businesses in specific sectors of the economy, more needs to be done.

We Destroyed 100 Illegal Refineries in TwoYears, NSCDC Reveals Oil Theft: Rights group condemns burning of arrested vessels Michael Olugbode in Abuja, Sylvester Idowu in Warri and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) destroyed over 100 illegal refineries across the country in the last two years, the Commandant General of the Corps, Dr. Ahmed Audi disclosed yesterday.

Speaking in Abuja at the opening ceremony of the second Commandant General’s Conference in the year 2023, Audi also disclosed that: "We have arrested over 200 suspects involved in vandalism in the last

two years.”

He, however, lamented that criminals were targeting public infrastructure and national wealth, enjoining officers of the NSCDC to double their efforts in tackling all challenges they were facing across the country.

Audi, while restating the order by the President that his administration would no longer tolerate crude oil theft, even as he gave marching orders to security agencies to end the menace of oil theft, said: “As the lead agency in the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure, we

Makinde Charges Army to Protect Nation's Democracy Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

many companies.” The NECA director general stated that the consequences of the years of wrong policy choices were not far-fetched.

He said, “As expected, divestment, capital flight and outright closures have become the ‘new normal’ within the business community. This is one of the chief reasons why the rate of unemployment continues to soar perpetually with consequential rise in crime and other security issues.”

Oyerinde explained that a large number of Nigerians become unemployed when businesses cease operations either by divestment or a

relationship with the Army.

"I am glad that you have been able to establish the fact that there is a cordial relationship between the officers and men of the Division, especially those staying in the state and the populace. I want to take this opportunity to thank you and ask that we maintain that relationship.

"Since I became governor, the professionalism and dedication to duty of the Division has not been in doubt. We have had challenges, carried out joint clearance operations with my team and other security agencies in Oyo State, especially in the Old Oyo National Park area and we have been largely successful.

"When we had issues with kidnapping along the Lagos-Ibadan

Expressway corridor, I was scared that we were going to have an exact same situation as the one between Abuja and Kaduna on that road.

And in the Old National Park, I saw banditry and there are also illegal miners all over the place.

“But I didn't want that kind of situation to develop here in Oyo State. With the concerted effort of the officers and men of the 2 Division, we have been able to stay on top of these two challenges.

"I have heard people say to me that anytime they are coming from Lagos, immediately they get to the border of Oyo State, they relax because they think the worst is behind them. And this is due to the efforts and professionalism of the 2 Division.

are obligated to key into this policy direction by further strengthening our anti-vandalisation drive.

"I am, therefore, issuing a fresh order to all State Commandants to rejig and reenergise your anti-vandal and intelligence units to effectively execute this Presidential Order.”

He charged the senior officers to begin to deploy new strategies in tackling the spate of insecurity in the country, adding that the Corps had prioritised training and retraining, as well as procurement of modern operational and communication equipment in order to further enhance the capacity of the personnel.

Meanwhile, the Environmental Rights Action/ Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) has condemned the burning and destruction of vessels laden with stolen crude oil.

The group described the method of destruction as worrisome and an environmentally unfriendly way of curbing oil theft.

The Executive Director of ERA/ FoEN, Chima Williams, made the decision of the group known in a statement yesterday, while commenting on the conduct of the Nigeria's security operatives trying to stop oil theft in the Niger Delta, especially in recent time.

According to him, the burning of crude oil laden vessels disposes a high level of chemical content into the water bodies that destroys aquatic organisms that humans need to survive.

“Destroying such vessels with their crude contents produces high level chemical debris that follows tidal movement to other parts of the country. This kind of devastation destroys the aquatic organisms needed to satisfy man’s nutritional and survival needs.

“What is discharged includes chemical contents from the crude and the vessels that are harmful to the human health. The health implications of such activities may not have immediate effects, but will be transferred to the people who inhabit these areas, as the primary occupation of the Riverine people are fishing and farming, which is dependent on the surrounding waters,” he said.

He maintained that the destruction of crude oil laden vessels would also deprive the people of their sources of livelihood, when the chemical waste from the burnt vessels and crude oil come in contact with the environment, killing aquatic life and poisoning the surrounding soil.

Commenting on the economic implication of such activities, Williams further stated that destroying and wasting away stolen crude, was a disfavor to the country’s economy, as such crude could generate funds that would build infrastructures and better the lives of the people.

“Destroying badges of crude that runs into millions is equivalent to denying the nation and its people of the revenue that can be derived from such large amounts of crude.

6

THURSDAY, ͹͸˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

ECONOMY ON THEIR MINDS...

Former Minister of Health and newly confirmed minister, Muhammed Ali Pate ( L) and the Director General, World Trade Organisation (WTO), addressing the State House correspondent shortly after the PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI . meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja…on Tuesday

Obaseki: We’ve Grown Edo’s Budgetary Performance by 85% Annually to N320bn State govt reveals 314,000 households to benefit N20,000 monthly as post subsidy removal palliative To train 1,500 vigilante personnel Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has disclosed that through the government’s transparency, accountability and prudent management of resources, the budget performance for the state has continued to rise as it grew significantly from N116 billion when he came into office in 2016, to N320 billion, recording 85 per cent growth annually.

He stressed that e-governance reforms by his administration aimed at improving public service delivery has transformed the state as the best in terms of deploying technology in public governance in the country.

Obaseki said this when he declared open the sixth Southern Zonal Accountant's Conference of

Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in Benin City, the Edo State capital, with the theme, “Quest for Good Governance in Nigeria: The Chartered Accountants’ Perspective.”

The governor said his administration was undertaking reforms across various sectors of the state’s economy to ensure economic prosperity for the state and build a robust and sustainable economy driven by energy, agriculture and technology.

He noted, “The role of professional bodies like ICAN in proffering solutions that would enhance the delivery of the dividends of democracy to our citizens can't be over-emphasised.

“It’s clear that, however, when you describe good governance, there must be key elements in that description. For good governance

to be achieved, the processes and institutions that should produce good governance must produce results that meet societal needs while making the best use of resources at its disposal.

“Good governance in Nigeria must refer to the process where public institutions conduct public affairs and manage public resources that guarantee to realise political, economic, educational and environmental objectives.”

The governor further noted, “Under my watch as governor of Edo State, several reforms have been undertaken to promote accountability, transparency, and prudent management of resources to meet the peoples’ needs and promote good governance.

“Our collective approach as a

government agrees with that of the Prime Minister of India, who said good governance with good intention is the hallmark of our government implementation with integrity as our core passion.

“This passion accounts for the development of a well-thought-out six thematic pillars strategy in pursuant to our vision and mission.

These six thematic pillars that have been driving our government to deliver good governance to Edo people include reforms of institutions; creating a citizen-centric leadership; making government an enabler and relying on technology.”

Obaseki added, “Edo is number one when it comes to technology adoption in public governance in Nigeria as we have E-governance software that helps us drive and run

Okonjo-Iweala Advises on Measures to Attract Nigerians in Diaspora for Nation’s Development Michael Olugbode in Abuja The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has given an advice on measures that should be taken to attract Nigerians in the Diaspora to contribute towards Nigeria’s development and growth.

Okonjo-Iweala, gave the advice yesterday, to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), during a presentation to her as a "Diaspora Icon," a decision that was taken at the recently held Maiden National Diaspora Merit Award in Abuja.

The team that made the presentation to her was led by the Chairman/CEO, NIDCOM, Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

The WTO DG said Nigerians in the Diaspora was capable of doing so much for the country, which goes beyond remittances. She listed skills and knowledge transfer as other areas the country could benefit, especially as most countries of the world were fast embracing technology and digital tools.

On her recent recognition, Okonjo-Iweala expressed pride as a citizen of Nigeria, adding that

she was elated, and humbled, for being selected to receive such an award as a "Diaspora Icon."

She commended the Commission for the work it has been doing over the years in terms of Diaspora engagement, under the pragmatic leadership of the NiDCOM boss.

Okonjo-Iweala expressed readiness

to work with the Commission and the Federal Government of Nigeria for the betterment of all Nigerians.

While presenting the award to her, the NiDCOM Chairman stated that the award was presented to the DG, WTO for her selfless service to Nigeria and humanity at large.

Dabiri-Erewa remarked that

the former minister serves as an inspiration to all Nigerian women, aiming at balancing family ties and career growth.

The Diaspora Icon Award was one of the categories of awards at the National Diaspora Day celebrations and National Diaspora Merit Award held in July 26, 2023.

Yemi-Esan Tasks HMOs on Affordable Healthcare for Workers Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, has charged Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) in the country to provide civil servants with quality and affordable healthcare services, thereby reducing the morbidity rate being experienced in recent times.

She made the appeal during a one-day Interactive session with HMOs in the country in Abuja.

Yemi-Esan, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office, Mahmud Adam

Kambari, affirmed that the health of civil servants could no longer be taken for granted, as they die on a daily basis from ailments that are preventable and curable.

She called on the HMOs to partner with the civil service on regular medical check-ups, as well as provide quality medications and comprehensive medical health care to them.

The HoS also sought to know the fate of the retirees under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and the number of civil servants benefitting monthly from the NHIS.

She asked the regulatory body, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), to ensure that HMOs are visible and accessible to civil service enrollees as many of them do not know their HMOs. Earlier in her welcome address, the Director, Occupational Health, Safety and Environment (OHSE)-OHCSF, Dr. Comfort Adeosun, highlighted the theme of the interactive session as “Promoting a Healthy and Productive Workforce,” even as she emphasised the need to work in synergy with HMOs for quality healthcare to all civil servants.

our civil service. Our goal is to build a large, sustainable economy driven by energy, agriculture, and technology and build the infrastructure that drives everything in the State.”

According to him, “In the last six years, we have reviewed our financial instructions (FI) which were used in the Western and Mid-West regions and today our FI reflects the current reality of modern public service governance.

“In the last decade, we have taken a fundamental review of our public procurement sector and undertaken fundamental reforms through the amendment of the Edo State Public Procurement Law 2012 and a review in 2020.

“As a State, we have adopted the IPSA Accounting basis of accounting in our financial reporting, and in 2020, the World Bank adjudged Edo State audited financial report as meeting the IPSA requirements. ''In 2018, we enacted the public financial management and fiscal responsibility laws in our State. We have increased Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) substantially in the State by granting administrative and financial autonomy to EDIRS. On his part, the 59th President of ICAN, Dr. Innocent Okwuosa, commended the governor for the prudent management of scarce resources to better the lives of the majority of Edo people, adding, “Our collective patrimony must be administered with equity, justice, transparency and accountability.

Despite the compelling capacity and accountability to promote good governance and national development, the attention given by successive administrations has yielded little results.”

Meanwhile, in response to the removal of fuel subsidy and the untold hardship it has caused the populace, Edo State Government yesterday, announced the payment of N20,000 monthly social intervention fund to the poorest of the poor in the state which it said consist of 314,000 Households.

It also said over 1,500 vigilante were being trained with a view to making the state one of the safest in the country.

Furthermore, the state government condemned the actions of the state deputy governor, Mr. Philip Shaibu, who took Obaseki to court, saying

it was not only condemnable, but unaccepted.

The State Commissioner for Information and Communication Strategy, Mr. Chris Nehikhare, disclosed these to newsmen in Benin City, as major decisions of the Executive Council (Exco).

Nehikhare, who was flanked by the Special Adviser to Obaseki of Media Project, Crusoe Osagie; and the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Solomon Imohiose, explained that the households were persons considered to living below acceptable poverty line.

According to him, the database for the persons concerned were gotten between 2019 and 2021 during the Covid-19 pandemic, and was sponsored by the World Bank in conjunction with the Edo State Government.

Nehikhare, who recalled that during the protest against fuel subsidy removal which necessitated hike in prices of goods and services by Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Edo State chapter, noted that Obaseki promised to spend the sum of N500 million to cushion the effects every month from the state Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

"So at Exco today, government agreed that N20,000 be given to 314,000 households beginning from next month as social intervention," he said He, however, said before the commencement of the payment, there would be a revalidation of the database of those vulnerable persons to ascertain those who are still alive and those that have died.

On his part, Osagie, who spoke on the training of 1,500 vigilante personnel, said all those being trained have their biometrics already captured, noting that the state needed to be secured, due to its peculiar nature as the gateway to all the geopolitical zones in the country.

He said, with their training, the vigilante personnel would be more effective in line with the security architecture of the state to complement the regular police force to ensure a minimised crime environment in the state.

Commenting on the state’s deputy governor, Nehikhare described the actions of Shaibu as a breach of trust and the oath he swore, adding "there are consequences for such actions."

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 • T H I S D AY

7

8

THURSDAY, ͹͸˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

ROYAL VISIT TO THE HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON...

L-R: Wife of the High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Mrs. Saliat Isola; Osile Oke Ona Egba, His Royal Highness, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, Karunwi III; Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo Okukenu IV, and Nigeria High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Amb. Sarafa Tunji Isola, during the visit of Alake of Egbaland and Kabiyesi Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, Karunwi III, to the High Commissioner of Nigeria to the United Kingdom …recently

Shettima: FG to Partner IITA to Boost Food Security Says Tinubu ready to reposition nation Deji Elumoye in Abuja The Vice President, Kashim Shettima has assured the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) of the federal government’s partnership towards ensuring food security in the country.

Shettima gave the assurance yesterday, when he received in audience the IITA delegation led by the Director-General and Regional Director for Africa, Simeon Ehui, at the State House, Abuja.

According to him, the President Bola Tinubu-led administration

would give all the necessary support and assistance to ensure food security and enhance agricultural practice that would produce enough food for the citizenry.

He said: “There has to be a paradigm shift. Our agricultural output is low as compared to our

Japa Syndrome Seriously Affecting Osun Health Sector, Says NMA Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Osun State Chapter, yesterday, lamented that the state health sector was suffering great decline in personnel as a result of doctors leaving Nigeria in droves for greener pastures abroad, commonly referred to as 'Japa Syndrome.'

Osun NMA Chairman, Dr. Adetoye Adedapo, said this at the State House of Assembly, while carrying out medical test on members of the assembly staff as part of the activities marking 2023 NMA Week.

He stated that shortage of medical doctors and poor salary were major challenges facing the health sector in the state, as well as Nigeria.

Adedapo, who was addressing the Assembly Speaker and some lawmakers present at the health outreach, sought the support of the state lawmakers, in terms of increasing doctors' salary.

He said if doctors are well remunerated in the state, doctors from neighboring states would be encouraged to work in Osun.

He lamented that the state medi-

cal personnel did not have the kind of support and empowerment Lagos State doctors have been enjoying, noting doctors in Lagos have 50 per cent of the government support.

"Though Governor Adeleke has been supportive, which makes us not to join the nationwide strike, but we seek more support from lawmakers.

"We are badly affected by the Japa syndrome in Osun and we want to solicit your (lawmakers) support. We will bring a letter to the house later on areas we need your intervention." he said Speaking, the Osun State Speaker, Rt Hon Adewale Egbedun, promised to look into their demands and asked the medical personnel to present their demands in a written form so that the house can look into it.

He appreciated the doctors for extending their medical outreach to the State Assembly.

"We appreciate you people for coming around and we will always support you. There is a saying that health is wealth.

"The major challenge the country is having now is the Japa syndrome,

so I will encourage you to come with a proposal, then we present it to the governor so that we can come up with solutions." he said

size of population and even the unfriendly environmental factors.

So, this is a time of change and I want to give you the guarantee that my boss is with you and he will solidly support you to execute your mandate.

"My boss, President Bola Tinubu is a man of courage and conviction and he has determined to reposition the nation more than ever before.”

While commending the IITA team for the many successes they have recorded in the agriculture sector in the West African region, Shettima praised IITA for doing well in the production of certain agricultural produce such as “cassava, yam and soya beans".

He stated further that IITA has

A former Justice of the Supreme Court, Mary Peter-Odili, yesterday, refuted the allegation that she had begun meeting with judges handling cases at the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT) in order to influence them in favour of President Bola Tinubu.

An online publisher, Jackson Ude, had alleged that Justice Peter-Odili was “negotiating a pathway for President Bola Tinubu” and that “she meets regularly with Appeal and Supreme Courts” in that regard.

But in a statement, Justice Peter-Odili vehemently refuted the allegations, describing it as false, malicious, mischievous and

a deliberate attempt at smearing her integrity and solid reputation.

In the statement which was signed by her Media Assistant, Felix Enebeli, the retired justice of the apex court said she had also referred the matter to her lawyers as well as the police and other security agencies for appropriate action.

While the statement urged the public to disregard and ignore the false publication, it added that it has the potential of inciting the public against her lordship on an issue of grave national importance.

It noted that her lordship was neither a judicial consultant to anyone nor was she in any way connected with or involved in any of the presidential election petitions or

objectives” Shettima lauded the institution for its reputation and international best practices, noting that the “Federal Government can effortlessly do business with you. So, I want to give you my candid assurance that by my training, by my inclination as an agricultural economist and as a banker by profession, we can definitely engage with you.”

Earlier in his speech, the Director-General, Simeon Ehui, thanked the federal government for the support to IITA over the years, disclosing that it has expanded across many states in the country.

He expressed the readiness of IITA to partner with the Tinubu administration, adding that so much needs to be done in Nigeria.

Court Freezes Ambrosie Orjiakor's Accounts, Assets over Alleged Indebtedness to Access Bank Wale Igbintade Justice Nicholas Oweibo of the Federal High Court in Lagos, has granted an order freezing the bank accounts and assets of the Co-Founder and former Chairman, Seplat Energy, Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chkwueloka (ABC) Orjiakor over alleged indebted to Access Bank Plc. The court also restrained Orjiakor his agents, servants and/or privies or any other person or group of persons whatsoever under his authority or any other authority from operating, withdrawing from or otherwise tampering and/or dealing with his funds in any bank and/or financial institution within Nigeria, pending

the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice for the appointment of a Special Manager filed along herein.

The order of the court was sequel upon a Motion Ex Parte dated July 12, 2023 filed by Access Bank in charge number: FHC/L/BK/08/2023.

Aside Orjiakor also listed as respondents in the petition were Seplat Energy Plc, Helko Nigeria Limited, Neymeth International, Pharmaceuticals Plc, Salvic Petroleum Resources Limited, Zebbra Energy Limited.

Others were ORDREC Group Limited,, Helko Marine Services Limited. Pondents 8. Berwick Nigeria Limited, Abbeycourt Petroleum

Mary Odili Refutes Alleged Plan to Influence Tribunal Judges Wale Igbintade

an iconic presence in Nigeria, in Ibadan and West Africa and as such reasoned that the country must maximise the benefits which the institution can bring to bear on the agriculture sector in the country.

According to him, “Your own mantra is about the increase in agricultural yield and what tools can be used to improve such yield; ensure seed quality and availability, sound agricultural practices, fertilizer, and most importantly market accessibility.

“These are not rocket science, these are real and of course, if we can have very sound and environmentally friendly irrigation mechanism that will enhance our farm outputs, we can achieve our

any other election petition whatsoever.

“Our attention has been drawn to a publication circulating in the social media against the person of the retired Justice Mary Ukaego Peter-Odili, wherein the author, one Jackson Ude, falsely and maliciously alleged inter alia, that the revered jurist is ‘currently negotiating a pathway for Bola Tinubu’ and that ‘she meets regularly with Appeal and Supreme courts’ in that regard.

“While the defamation arising from the false allegation has been referred to the lawyers of her lordship to deal with in accordance with the law, we consider it appropriate, particularly for the sake of the public, to issue this unequivocal denial of the false allegation.

“We deny every allegation contained in the publication and state that the publication is false, malicious, mischievous and a deliberate attempt at smearing the integrity and solid reputation of her lordship. We say nothing of the fact that the publication has the potential of inciting the public against her lordship on an issue of grave national importance,” Justice Peter-Odili said.

“The public is hereby urged to disbelieve, disregard and ignore this false publication,” she added.

According to the statement, lawyers acting for Justice Peter-Odili have been instructed to demand retraction and public apology from the publisher, Ude, failing which redress will be sought in a court of law.

Company Limited, Abbeycourt Energy Services Limited, Abbeycourt Company Limited and Pursley Resources Limited The court order read: "That an Interim Order is hereby ordered restraining the debtor (Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor), his agents, servants and/or privies or any other person or group of persons whatsoever under his authority or any other authority (howsoever derived or sourced) from operating, withdrawing from or otherwise tampering and/or dealing with his funds in any bank and/or financial institution within Nigeria pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice for the appointment of a Special Manager filed along herein.

"That a consequential order is hereby made:. directing and/ or compelling all banks/financial institutions harbouring the debtor’s.

(Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiako) account(s) to depose to oath the sums standing to the credit of the debtor (Dr.Ambosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor) in their custody with seven days from being served with a copy of the order of court.

"That Interim Order is hereby made restraining the respondents from dealing with shares, investments, bonds, assets, funds howsoever described belonging to the Debtor (whether held by him directly or via proxy) in their custody and/ or in custody of any bank/financial institution pending the hearing and final determination of the Motion on Notice for the appointment of a

Special Manager filed along herein.

"That a consequential order is hereby made directing and/or compelling respondents harbouring the debtor’s (Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor) shares, assets, bonds, funds howsoever described, whether held directly by the said Debtor or via proxy, to depose on Oath the shares, assets, investments, sums etc,’ standing to the credit of the Debtor (Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor) in their custody within 7 (seven) days from being served with a copy of the order of the court.

"That an Interim order is hereby made restraining the debtor (Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor), his agents, Servants and/ or privies from interfering with, tampering, removing from jurisdiction of this honourable court his funds, investments, bonds, shares, pecuniary and other beneficial interests in all banks, financial institution and/or company in Nigeria principally in Shebah Exploration and Production Company Limited, Allenne Limited and in the Respondents pending the hearing and final determination of the Motion on Notice for the appointment of a Special Manager filed along herein.”

It stated further: "That an order is hereby made authorising the creditor herein to take over and preserve all the assets of the debtor, whether same may be found, specifically the following properties belonging to the debtor be it directly or via proxy: No. 25A, Lugard Avenue, Ikoyi, Lagos, No. 6, Agodogba Avenue, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos.

9

THURSDAY, ͹͸˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ T H I S D AY

NINE

NLNG: Last Year’s Flood-induced Force Majeure Not Yet Called Off Oil price hits new highs, crosses $87

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Nigeria LNG yesterday said the force majeure it declared in October 2022 due to widespread flooding that disrupted supply was continuing, according to a report by Reuters.

Force majeure refers to unexpected external circumstances that prevent a party to a contract from meeting obligations.

"The force majeure still subsists as the unavailability of upstream gas suppliers’ major liquids evacuation pipelines, occasioned by sabotage and vandalism, still impacts feed gas supplies," NLNG spokesman Andy Odeh said in an emailed response to a Reuters enquiry.

The company, jointly owned by the federal government and some International Oil Companies (IOCs) had said the notice by the gas suppliers was a result of high flood water levels in their operational areas, leading to a shut-in of gas production, causing significant disruption of gas supply.

Flooding in different parts of Nigeria left over 600 people dead and more than a million people displaced last year. However, at the time, the NLNG stated that the force majeure will not affect the supply of the product to the market.

“We are aware of the flooding in parts of the country, specifically in the Niger Delta area. But just to

assure that the notification is that our facility in terms of production has not been impacted. We are still producing LNG or exporting LNG. “However, the notice of force majeure that was issued was clearly to say that our upstream gas suppliers have been impacted by the flooding where the gas is coming from and as a result of that, we are not getting the gas coming into our facility to liquefy and export,” Odeh told Arise TV last year.

But Odeh said yesterday that "NLNG continues to collaborate with its customers to minimise the impact of the consequent gas supply shortage," The company did not cancel

cargoes despite the force majeure, which was only pre-emptive to protect it and notify clients if the situation persists for much longer, Reuters said.

NLNG, with a production capacity of 22 million tonnes per annum, delivers most of its shipments to clients in Europe including Galp and Endesa with whom it has long-term contracts. It also operates over 70 spot agreements across major LNG markets.

Meanwhile, oil prices hit new peaks on Wednesday with the global Brent benchmark touching its highest since January as Saudi and Russian output cuts offset concerns over slow demand from China and a steep

drawdown in US fuel stockpiles.

Brent crude, Nigeria’s oil benchmark, was up over 44 cents and more than 0.51 per cent, at $86.59 a barrel in the afternoon, having earlier touched $87.65, its highest since January 27.

Also, West Texas Intermediate crude (WTI) gained 39 cents, or 0.5 per cent, to $83.34. The US benchmark touched $84.65, its highest level since November 2022.

Supporting prices, however, were top exporter Saudi Arabia's plans to extended its voluntary production cut of 1 million barrels per day for another month to include September.

Russia also said it would cut oil exports by 300,000 bpd in September.

Crude posted its sixth consecutive weekly gain last week, helped by a reduction in Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies ‘ supplies and hopes of stimulus boosting oil demand recovery in China.

On Tuesday, Saudi Arabia's cabinet said it reaffirmed its support for precautionary measures by OPEC to stabilise the market, state media reported.

In Nigeria, it would be a mixed bag in the coming months, with revenue from crude oil likely to increase.

However, on the other hand, the pump price of petrol will also rise due to the recent withdrawal of the subsidy regime.

DA N G OT E H A I L S T I N U B U ’S Q U E ST TO R A M P U P TA X C O L L E CT I O N , B LO C K R E V E N U E L E A K AG E S richest man came as it emerged that the federal government was currently considering making the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) the sole revenue collection agency at the federal level. And by implication, current revenue generating agencies of the federal government, like the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and about 60 others may be stripped of that role.

Dangote stressed that with an efficient tax collection system, the “government does not need to borrow money, all you need to do is to block the leakages in the system and by blocking the leakages, there is enough money for government to provide social services. I am really pleased and I wish the president God’s guidance to continue to do great job”.

He disclosed that Dangote Group paid more taxes than the entire Nigerian banking industry, and urged the committee to work towards harmonisation of the multiple taxes in the country.

Dangote said, “I must thank President Tinubu for creating this committee and also appointing credible people, who are well tested, especially the chairman, who is a tax guru and very objective.

“Taiwo Oyedele is actually one of the best when it comes to taxation in Nigeria.

“I think it is really a very good thing and it is as good as other reforms that were done in terms of petrol subsidy removal and others.

Government is losing billions of dollars or maybe trillions of naira in terms of non-collection of taxes.

“We have different taxes and it is much better to harmonise them and also expand the tax net so as to

make sure people pay taxes, because it is a social contract between the government and we that operate within the country.”

Dangote pointed out that government could not offer social services to the citizens without tax collection.

“So, it is a great thing that the president set up this committee,” he said.

Dangote added, “Within the time given to them, I am sure that they would start submitting reports and I think those reports should actually be implemented.

“Maybe they should look at automating the tax system, just like what they did in India. If you go to India today, the country collects at least $1 trillion in various taxes.

On petroleum products alone, India makes $100 billion yearly, because they charge 100 per cent on petroleum products. So, what I am suggesting is that people should pay tax and if you pay, you demand services from government. I think it is a social contract.

“Once people start seeing that government is using the money to do infrastructure, fund education, healthcare, whereby the citizens don’t need to go out to India or other countries for medical attention, then people would settle down and start paying taxes.”

Responding to a question on whether the 18 per cent tax-to-GDP ratio target given to the committee was realistic since the country presently did less than 10 per cent, Dangote said, “It is very realistic.

President Tinubu demonstrated this when he took charge of Lagos State and if you look at when he was first sworn in as Governor of Lagos, the state was earning meagre amount.

But by the time he left office, Lagos’ collection was totally different.

“You hardly hear people complaining about paying taxes in Lagos, because you can actually see what the money is being used for and that is what I think we should replicate at the federal level.

“Once people start seeing that infrastructure is being addressed, education and health are well funded, people would pay.

“Let me add, government is an investor in our businesses. When they facilitate and give you a very good business environment, whether it is a tax holiday or good environment, they are stakeholders through those things that they facilitated.

“So, when it comes to us as corporates, we have to be socially responsible by paying our taxes in return. But when you look at it, you see a lot of companies that are actually not paying. When you tell the taxman to go ahead and collect more taxes, they would go back to the same companies that are paying and put more pressure on them. No, that is not what it ought to be.

“What they should do is to expand the net and make sure everybody is brought in within that segment of taxation. But without computerising things, people would continue to dodge.

“One of the areas that people would need to understand has to do with the issue of tax holiday. Tax holiday does not mean that when you make money, you then use the money to buy houses in Dubai and other places. No, it is for you to make money and re-invest into the business and expand.”

The business mogul revealed that Dangote Cement paid “about $300 million a week as Value Added Tax (VAT) alone.

“So, if I didn’t invest and create

that business, how is the government going to collect the VAT? By the time you look at our tax as a company and the withholding tax, if you add both, it amounts to over N200 billion, just on Dangote Cement alone. Are we upset about paying taxes? No, the only thing is that we are upset because some people are not paying.

So, people should be made to pay taxes and government must make sure that it collects its own share from people who are dodging tax.”

FG Plans to Make FIRS Sole Revenue Collection Agency

The federal government is currently considering making the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) the sole revenue collecting agency at the federal level.

The move would whittle down the powers of other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), which are currently generating and spending revenue.

It was further revealed that some agencies, including Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), among others, might have reneged on their regulatory and supervisory functions and, rather, focused on revenue generation, which had been riddled with corruption.

Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Tax Policy and Fiscal Reforms, which Tinubu inaugurated on Tuesday, Oyedele, said the affected MDAs would be divested from those responsibilities that had cost the economy billions of naira due to sharp practices.

Oyedele, a former Fiscal Policy Partner and Africa Tax Leader at PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC),

said Nigeria’s revenue collection from taxes was one of the lowest in the world, but the cost of collection remained high.

During a recent meeting of the Joint Tax Board (JTB), chaired by Mr. Muhammad Nami, the proliferation of tax collecting agencies was identified as one of the major obstacles in the country's tax system.

Speaking on Channels Television, Oyedele said, “Ironically, our cost of collection is one of the highest.

And the reason for that is that we’ve got all manners of agencies. The federal government alone, we have 63 MDAs that were given revenue targets last year, no; actually in the 2023 budget.

“And two things that would come up from that: on one hand, these agencies are being distracted from doing their primary function, which is to facilitate the economy. Number two, they were not set up to collect revenue, so, they won’t be able to collect revenue efficiently.

“So, move those revenue collection functions to the FIRS. It has two advantages: the cost of collection and efficiency will improve, these guys will focus on their work, and the economy will benefit as a result.”

Oyedele added, “If you are customs, focus on trade facilitation, border protection; and if you are NCC, just regulate telecommunications. You are not set up to collect revenue.

“It can be your revenue and someone else can collect it for you. There will be more transparency because you see what is being collected and is accounted for properly. It is also a way of holding ourselves to account as to how we spend the money we collect from the people.”

The tax reform committee chair acknowledged there would be

pushback from stakeholders and others benefitting from the current system. However, he said the committee’s sole objective was not to take what belonged to anyone, but to collect what should come to the government.

Oyedele also described the Treasury Single Account (TSA) initiative as a step in the right direction, but said it had not been fully developed.

He said the TSA would help his committee’s work but there was more to do to maximise the initiative.

Oyedele said the committee would also look into excess bank charges, adding that businesses pay as high as 65 to 70 levies and taxes. He said the presidential committee had a mandate to reduce the number of taxes to about 10.

He said Nigeria’s tax gap was estimated at N20 trillion, as many among the elite evaded paying the exact taxes they should remit to the government.

According to him, “As of today, we have a significant tax gap estimated in the region of N20 trillion or even more. If you focus more on the few major taxes – Value Added Tax, Corporate Income Tax, Personal Income Tax, a lot of people are not (tax) compliant, particularly the middle class and the elite, some of them are in the tax net with one or two fingers, you pay a thousand naira as tax when you should have paid N10 million."

The tax expert said all revenues not hitherto captured would be brought into the tax net.

He said, “In fact, our plan is to repeal many of the taxes that currently make doing business difficult without introducing new ones and yet collect more."

Sanusi also said he was well received by the military leader in Niger.

Muslim clerics, who were opposed to war with the Nigerien military, as threatened about two weeks ago by ECOWAS, said apart from the dire consequences of armed conflict, they were enjoined by their religious faith and the Quran to seek mediation in cases like this.

Sheikh Bala Lau of Izalla group and Sheikh Abdurahman Ahmad of Ansar ud Deen, flanked by leaders of other sects, addressed newsmen after their meeting in the evening yesterday with Tinubu.

Lau stated, "We thank Allah that He gave us the opportunity to meet with Mr. President, the delegation of Ulama from here in Nigeria met with Mr. President on the issue of Niger Republic. We want to find a lasting solution, we want peace and harmony to reign, not only in Nigeria, but in the sub-Saharan region and in the globe as well.

"The Ulama advised Mr. President that we want peace and reconciliation.

If anything happens between you and your neighbour, the holy Quran commands you to reconcile, so we want reconciliation.

"That’s why we are here and our able leader and president accepted the offer that he wants us to intervene and to talk to our brothers in Niger Republic, the scholars also there on how we can come together and bring a lasting solution to this problem.

"That is why we are here and,

Insha Allah, by the grace of Allah, we’re optimistic that Allah will do it for us and we’ll find a lasting solution to this issue."

Ahmad also said, "The president welcomed our intervention and he has promised that if we could also talk to the people on the other side, for them to be ready to give concession, then ECOWAS that he’s chairman of will also be ready.

"Other than that, the president deplored coup d’état in the Sahel region and as a democrat himself, he said he would do everything to ensure that there is democracy, justice, freedom and peace in the sub-region.

"We, as the Ulama, are also committed to peace and justice and the government will be enabling the Ulama to mediate as it is appropriate.

This is why we are here and it is a mission accomplished because the president responded positively and in turn he has given us assignment to also mediate to ensure reconciliation between the warring factions in Niger."

Earlier, some other Islamic clerics warned against the use of military action in bringing back Bazoum. The clerics, after meeting with Tinubu at State House, Abuja, advocated diplomacy in resolving the political crisis in Niger Republic.

Speaking with newsmen in the Hausa language, Secretary General of Jamaatu Nasrul Islam (JNI), Professor Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, said the meeting discussed the proposed

Continues online

D I P LO M A CY B A C K O N TA B L E A S S A N U S I M E E T S N I G E R C O U P L E A D E R , T I N U B U President Bola Tinubu, with a view to resolving the political quagmire in the country through negotiations rather than military force.

This deft political move came ahead of today's meeting of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Heads of States, which is said to be considering proposals from other interventions for a one-year military transition by the junta and then, general election. Though this proposal did not specifically come from Sanusi, but it is said to be one of the proposals under consideration to avoid bloodbath in the region.

Also, as parts of the diplomatic moves being negotiated, some leaders of major Islamic groups in the country, yesterday, met with Tinubu and secured his approval to negotiate with their colleagues from the neighbouring Niger on how to find a fitting solution to the political crisis

in Niger.

But the potentially devastating effects of some of the actions so far taken by the ECOWAS leadership, particularly, the various sanctions, forced some political stakeholders in Niger, about eleven of them, to write Tinubu, in his capacity as ECOWAS Chairman, to lift the sanctions imposed on their country.

At the same time, the Reunion of Episcopal Conferences of West Africa (RECOWA) warned about the consequences of military intervention in Niger Republic, saying the ECOWAS leadership must learn from Libya’s tragic experience.

RECOWA, a body comprising all Catholic cardinals, archbishops, and bishops in West Africa, urged the ECOWAS leaders to avoid the use of force in trying to restore the ousted democratic government in the country.

WHO DECLARES NEW COVID-19 STRAIN VARIANT OF INTEREST “It will probably cause a wave of more cases and all the problems that brings – such as more hospitalisations and Long Covid– but there is no reason at the moment to think that will be worse than previous waves this year,” she said.

Pagel also noted that waning immunity, whether from vaccinations or previous infections may mean the wave of EG.5 took longer to peak and hence could be larger.

Another professor, a virologist at the University of Leeds, Prof.

Stephen Griffin, was also quoted as saying that while the prevalence of the variant was increasing relatively slowly in the UK, its infectiousness and ability to evade antibodies meant that the number of cases could grow more rapidly when schools return and people go back to work and university after the summer.

But a group of concerned Nigerians instituted a court action at the ECOWAS court against the use of military action in resolving the Nigerien coup crisis.

Similarly, the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) advised Tinubu, as ECOWAS Chairman, to persuade the sub-regional body to adopt diplomatic channels in handling issues in Niger, even as it dismissed military rule as an aberration.

Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) equally appealed to Tinubu to discard the idea of using military action to dislodge the Nigerien coup leaders, saying it has weightier consequences.

But human rights activist and lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, called on the leaders of ECOWAS to address the real causes of coups in the sub-region.

Sanusi’s meetings with Tinubu and Tchiani took place barely 24 hours after the military authorities in Niger denied diplomats from the United States, African Union (AU), and ECOWAS access in their separate attempts to meet the junta.

Previous Nigerian delegations, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar III, and former military Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalaam Abubakar, achieved little in the effort to broker peace.

The leadership of ECOWAS will meet today to mull options on Niger after the expiration of the one week ultimatum given the junta in that country to return power to the

democratically elected Bazoum.

But pictures of Sanusi, whose Tijjaniya Islamic sect has a large following in Niger, went viral. Details of the meeting with Tchiani had yet to be made public, though Sanusi said the visit to Niger was a private initiative.

Hours after meeting Tchiani, Sanusi flew into Abuja, the Nigerian capital, and headed to the Presidential Villa to hold another meeting with Tinubu.

Speaking with newsmen after the session with the president, Sanusi said he was at the State House to brief Tinubu on his meeting with the authorities in Niger.

Sanusi stated, "I came to brief him on the details of my discussions with leaders of Niger. We’ll continue to do our best to bring the two parties together to improve understanding.

This is the time for public diplomacy, it’s not a matter that we leave to governments, all Nigerians, all Nigeriens need to be involved to find a solution that works for Africa, a solution that works for Niger, that works for Nigeria, and a solution that works for humanity.”

Sanusi also said his visit to Niger was a personal initiative although, he informed top Nigerian government officials about it.

He said, "I was not sent by the government. Government officials were aware I was going, but it was my personal initiative, using my personal contacts to get there and I will continue to do my best.

It is my duty as a leader to do that."

Continued on page 37

10

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 •T H I S D AY

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 • T H I S D AY

11

12

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 •T H I S D AY

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 • T H I S D AY

13

14

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 •T H I S D AY

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 • T H I S D AY

15

16

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 •T H I S D AY

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 • T H I S D AY

17

18

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023

POLITICS

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com (08033025611 SMS ONLY)

Adebayo: Labour Will Be Better for It Engaging Tinubu Govt on Issues Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party during the 2023 general elections, Prince Adewole Adebayo, in this interview with Folalumi Alaran talks about salient national issues including the need for organised labour to collaborate with the administration of President Bola Tinubu and public expectations from the ministers-designate who are to work with Tinubu to deliver on his campaign promises.

W

they understand the labour leaders’ option.

They may both agree with them, but the two of them looking at it together might be able to have a better view. I think it’s been a long time since people protested.

Some people have been hitching for the protest for a long time so it gives them the room to exercise that right which could be in doubt sometimes when you don’t exercise them, a right to protest against your government, it is your right as a citizen.

I think the people are hurting, and if the government is quick in response in terms of policy changes as they were quick to respond to the protest, they might make more progress than otherwise.

hat is your impression about last week’s protest by organised labour against the subsidy removal. Was it a genuine

one?

The issues at stake are of public concern.

And the labour unions, irrespective of what you might think of their leadership and their choices in recent times, they still have a role in society. The role they are playing is to draw government attention to the interest of their members. Though there are some occasions where the interest of their members might coincide with the concerns of the public.

So, members of the public might also want to align with them and express their minds to the government.

I think what happened (protest) was okay.

And labour’s engagement with the President, they appeared to be happy about it. When it comes to ventilating issues, the protest had ventilated their issues to the President.

But whether the protest has ventilated the issues is another thing because the issues are issues of economics, they are issue of government that have been democratically elected and when you elect a government you elect them together with their advertised policies and when these policies have some effects you don’t like, you can ventilate back to the government and you keep the dialogue going on with the government but what we do after the protest is more important than the protest.

I think the way government has responded

Adebayo has shown that government too understands the issue. They are not taking so many days. You know, in the past, you had a protest that will last days upon days before junior people in government will intervene.

The government has intervened at the highest level, and prior to that on the eve of that protest, there had been a national broadcast where the President tried to make his case.

So, it is a democratic engagement.

I think each person played their roles. The role of the labour leader is to remind the government that they represent a segment of the populace.

The government also showed that

Do you think the promises made by President Tinubu after his meeting with the labour made them shelved the protest, or there is more to it than we can see?

There shouldn’t have been any protest to start with because every adult during the election knew where every of the candidates was headed during the campaign.

If someone says I am going to eliminate fuel subsidy, unify the foreign exchange, I am going to do this I am going to do that and he gets elected and doing exactly that, that is natural. The labour movement could join other stakeholders to speak to the government.

They went out, may be because they wanted the government to take them more seriously.

One day protest or demonstration is enough.

It is not about how long the demonstration is but what you achieve out of it.

Then, government told the labour that the Port Harcourt refinery would work. Well, it should work, whether there was a protest or not. But any reasonable justification given to restore peace and tranquillity to allow the economy to work and to allow the people to cope I am okay with it.

I would rather have no protest but robust engagement on policy issues. It is not only labour. I am also engaging them publicly.

When they initiate a policy, I engage them.

I am not going to them and I let them know that I don’t agree with some of the things they are doing because I want them to correct as much as they believe they can correct.

It is not in anyone’s interest to have a volatile situation. So, labour should be careful not to be seen to be too partisan and to overplay their hands. Everyone behaved maturely at the meeting, and I hope that labour will focus more on productivity and getting more of their members who are in the public services to make things work for the public.

It is actually their members who are in the refineries. They are the ones working there even when the refineries were not working.

It’s their members that are in charge of subsidy payment. Labour is very strong in the country. If labour becomes the moral force in the country, then it is good for the country.

They can be partners with the government.

There is nothing to be ashamed of.

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

Arise: Nigeria’s Restructuring Should Be Top Priority of Tinubu’s Govt A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress and member of the sixth National Assembly, Senator Ayo Arise, in this interview with Gbenga Sodeinde, speaks on salient national issues including the need for the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to make restructuring of the nation top priority.

R

evered legal giant, Afe Babalola, recently celebrated 60 years at the Bar where former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, described as neither moral and constitutional the huge salary package of the National Assembly members, What is your reaction to this vis-a-vis the fact that this so-called jumbo pay was approved and even promoted during his tenure?

Let me congratulate Afe Babalola for his vision and his sense of industry for Ekiti and Nigerian people. He has created educational opportunities for our younger ones. The legal profession has witnessed tremendous boost, elite patronage and the medical school has become another Mecca for the salvation of the health sector in our country. He has been a wonderful person for our country and Ekiti State in particular.

Let me also use this opportunity to congratulate your Publisher, the Publisher of the THISDAY Newspapers, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena, on his 64th birthday for his invaluable contributions to the development of the country, and society, through the entrenchment of democracy in Nigeria through his media outlets.

Mr Obaigbena has paid his dues as a patriotic Nigerian, and a media mogul, I pray God to give him long life and make him to continue to prosper so that he can continue to contribute more meaningfully to the development of the country and society at large. I congratulate him.

Now, back to the real question you asked me, I do not know who started the jumbo pay in the National Assembly. I was in the 6th Senate and most of what we describe as a jumbo pay lies in the allowances vis a vis traveling back and forth from your constituency to the headquarters.

It covers the cost of opening and running of offices at different local government offices within respective Senatorial districts.

There is a difference between policy and

Arise implementation in Nigeria. If some people decide not to do the needful that such monies are provided for, then that is a different kettle of fish.

In terms of morality, some people can begin to ask questions, and hardly would anybody agree that he is getting too much in terms of remunerations in the National Assembly as accessibility of grassroot people is definitely higher for a Senator as against a governor.

On the constitutionality, I want to say that most of these things are done and are ratified through the Appropriation Act thereby making such actions covered under the constitution of the Federal Republic.

I know it is not only Baba Obasanjo, but many Nigerians feel somehow that all the Senators are actually benefiting far more than the services they render to Nigerians.

This is quite debatable depending on

who you are talking to and depends on what each and everyone can say he has done in terms of their constituency support and value added to the people they represent.

Those are issues we need to continue to work on and I want to assure you under the present circumstances, many of them would be able to justify the pay. This is not about the pay; criticism should be more on the effectiveness of the oversight functions.

If we do proper oversight and we call a spade a spade, I think Nigeria would be better for it.

We cannot discountenance the statements of our elders who could be seeing things from a different perspective. For me, I think we should continue to raise the issue of the jumbo pay, we should be very objective to look at other sectors.

We all need to stand up against wasteful allocations, wasteful spending in our public sector.

Every waste has an impact on our ability to fund our power sector, our road infrastructure, and provisions of other basic amenities that can improve the quality of life of our people.

I hope the National Assembly will continue to focus on the direction of carrying out oversight functions to ensure that the executive, particularly civil servants are not wasting too much time and putting so many clogs in the wheel of progress of executive actions during implementation.

This new government should beam searchlight and ensure that policy and timely implementation is raised to a reasonable level.

Nigerians are groaning under the hike in price of petroleum, what is your reaction?

The hardship being experienced by Nigeria as a result of the hike in petroleum prices is not unexpected, but the scale far outweighs the intention of the Federal Government.

The palliatives being discussed by the government is expected to ameliorate some of the consequences of the price hike.

I am one of those who believe in the action of Mr. President. Nevertheless, I also believe that the palliatives must reach the intended recipients in the shortest possible time frame.

The subsidy regime remains the highest source of leakage in our economy. Trillions are paid out to vendors, many of the vendors turn around to sell the subsidized products to neighboring West African countries for incredible profit.

Many of the vendors merely put documents together and collect subsidies on products that never made it to Nigeria. Nigeria in many cases was subsidizing fraud and the poor Nigerians suffer the consequences.

Your advice to Federal Government on policy and implementation.?

This government must ensure that corruption is looked at, very seriously because it’s getting to a level that every public official must become accountable in terms of implementation of policies of government. That change in thinking is what we need and that is what we are praying that the President should give to Nigerians.

The solid mineral policy must be totally overhauled. There are resources in the solid mineral space that could dwarf what we have from oil in terms of revenue to the Federal Government. The focus of the government is largely on the oil sector. This situation should be reversed urgently as part of the revenue generation diversification of this government.

This government has said students will have access to loans for education in our tertiary institutions. There is a huge gap between the pronouncement and implementation. Relative to implementation, things happen faster than the pronouncement.

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

T H I S D AY ˾ DAY, ͯͮ˜ ͰͮͰͱ

19

FEATURES

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

Empowering Small-Medium Enterprises to Optimise Efficiency Raheem Akingbolu writes on the need for stakeholders and promoters of small and medium-sized enterprises, SMEs to prioritise training and empowerment enhance client satisfaction as well as boosting the economy

I

n the rapidly advancing world, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) grapple with the constant challenge of maintaining competitiveness while meeting the ever-increasing demands of their clientele. Experience has since shown that many factors come to play in setting standard and creating niche in the market but perhaps the most important is training and empowerment.

To this end, some organisations have since sprung up to fill the gap. One of such firms is RotaPad, a revolutionary web-based platform that has been making waves across various industries, providing businesses with a streamlined approach to enhance resource management, cater to client requests, and handle critical instances. With its user-friendly interface and unwavering commitment to empowering businesses, it is believed that the firm has emerged as a transformative force for enterprises in Canada, the US, Europe, and Africa, revolutionizing the way they operate.

Founded in 2015, RotaPad's core purpose is both clear and impactful: to provide SMEs with an affordable and user-friendly platform that empowers them to optimize scalability and efficiency while impeccably tending to their clients' needs. In an era where mounting operational costs and digitalization challenges abound, the organisation presents itself as a breath of fresh air for company owners in search of tools that automate mundane processes, boost productivity, and enable a steadfast focus on achieving their business goals.

At the heart of RotaPad's triumph lies a set of fundamental values encompassing flexibility, accountability, trust, and collaboration. These values form the bedrock of the company's ethos and reverberate in every interaction with clients and employees alike. As a remote company, it shatters geographical boundaries, underscoring the essence of delivering highquality results as a unified team, regardless of physical location.

According to the firm’s Customer Success and Application Support Lead, Chinwe Ijezie: “RotaPad’s allure stems from its exceptional features and an array of benefits, including Accessible Anywhere, Anytime. Bid farewell to the days of being tethered to an office desk.

Ijezie RotaPad liberates businesses, granting them the freedom to access the platform 24/7, from any corner of the globe. Whether on a desktop or a mobile device, users can effortlessly review metrics, manage team members, and more, all at their convenience.”

“Also, its seamless integrations is another unique selling proposition. Adaptability stands as a cornerstone in today's diverse business landscape. We ensure a seamless user experience by integrating effortlessly with various contexts, whether it be a business's website or internal system. This enables enterprises to unlock the platform's full potential without disrupting existing operations.”

Continuing, Chinwe added that with the firm, SMEs can manage everything at a whim. “RotaPad stands as a versatile, all-encompassing solution for small-medium enterprises. From facilitating company trainings to efficiently overseeing order fulfilment, RotaPad empowers users to navigate all aspects of their operations effortlessly, saving valuable time and bolstering productivity.

It also has a user-friendly interface. The company is thoughtfully designed to be accessible to users of all computer-skill levels. The platform's intuitive interface ensures businesses

can seamlessly adopt it without necessitating extensive training or IT support.”

The success stories of enterprises across industries underscore our transformative prowess. A modest nonprofit organization, grappling with the management of 12 parttime volunteer staff members' absences and availability, found solace in RotaPad's embrace.

The platform's calendar feature facilitated volunteers in indicating their availability for upcoming weeks, while the absence request feature streamlined the process further. Swiftly creating and assigning shifts based on each volunteer's availability, the manager adeptly resolved scheduling conflicts. The organisation's timely intervention conserved precious time and resources, permitting the organization to wholeheartedly focus on its core mission while elevating morale and productivity among the team.

Also, for a modest drilling company grappling with scheduling complexities due to remote drilling sites and a mix of full-time and part-time staff, RotaPad emerged as a game-changer. The company bore witness to a remarkable improvement in scheduling processes, subsequently reducing the need for overtime and elevating productivity.

Moreover, the firm's remote accessibility bolstered communication and collaboration, yielding improved safety and operational efficiency. The team's morale and job satisfaction saw a tangible uptick, courtesy of its knack for streamlining processes and fostering effective team communication.

Observers believe that RotaPad's webbased platform serves as a beacon of hope for small-medium enterprises seeking to optimize scalability, efficiency, and client satisfaction. Endowed with exceptional features and unwavering commitment to its values, the brand transcends beyond being a mere tool; it transforms into an indispensable ally in the pursuit of success. By empowering businesses to dedicate themselves to their core mission while streamlining operational tasks, RotaPad opens a pathway to streamlined prosperity and growth. As the world progresses, this innovative organisation remains at the vanguard of transformation, bridging businesses closer to their aspirations, one streamlined step at a time.

Tackling Exposure to Electromagnetic Frequencies through Innovation Chiemelie Ezeobi To tackle the impediment of electromagnetic frequencies (EMF) that cause cell and tissue damage in human body, QNET, a leading wellness and lifestyle company, has introduced its latest innovative products into Nigeria.

Some of the latest products include the Chi Pendant 4, an innovative wearable health technology that incorporates universally appealing visual design and energy-transforming properties.

Others include QNET’s Bio light 3 and the Bio Disc 3, which are also body enhancing products that had undergone rigorous scientific tests.

According to Vice Chancellor, Covenant University, Prof. Abiodun Adebayo, such exposure to wifi and other electromagnetic frequencies can cause DNA defragmentation in sperm cells and slow sperm motility.

Speaking at the media workshop organised in Lagos by QNET recently, the vice chancellor said the heat emitted from laptops could kill sperm cells outrightly, which negatively affects male fertility.

He further noted that the human body was being put under severe pressure from constant exposure to harmful EMFs from electronic devices which have become indispensable in today’s digital world.

Buttressing, he said studies have shown that Wi-Fi causes oxidative stress, sperm and testicular damage, while explaining that oxidative stress was an imbalance of antioxidants in the body, which could lead to cell and tissue damage.

For the men, he said "most of us especially men are fond of putting phones in the pockets, not knowing the excessive damage it causes in the area of male fertility. Some of us also sleep with our phones on the bed not knowing the amount of radiation that these devices generate and how dangerous they are to our health.”

The Biochemistry Professor said it was

L-R: Mr. Biram Fall, QNET Regional Manager; Prof. Abiodun Adebayo, Vice Chancellor, Covenant University; and Dr Shadi Shaik, Product Specialist, Energy, QNET important to maintain distance from wifi for the safety of humans even though mobile phones and wireless technology have become an integral part of modern communication.

It is not surprising that a greater percentage of adults experience stress, headache, tiredness and sleeping problems due to exposure to EMF, which is harmful.

Also speaking, QNET Product Specialist, Energy, Dr. Shafi Shaik, said such exposure could lead to depleted and inconsistent energy levels, low mood, anxiety, depression and low immunity.

He further revealed that one in every four workers suffered burnout due to exposure

to wireless radiation from cell phones, 5G masts and wireless routers, among others.

While noting that humans had become increasingly dependent on wireless technologies to assist in their everyday lives, he revealed that 10 years ago, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a part of World Health Organisation (WHO) designated cell phones as a possible human carcinogen.

They found evidence of an increase in glioma and acoustic neuroma brain cancer as a result of radiation from mobile phone research.

He said: " We are energy beings. We

are sensitive to energy from other living beings, the earth, the sun, and from our technology. A research conducted by the American Psychological Association in 2019 showed that 75 per cent of adults report symptoms of stress, including headache, tiredness, or sleeping problems.

“Chronic stress is the silent killer because it lowers resistance to diseases, causes anxiety and depression, eating disorders, decreased mood, reduced mental and physical performance, fatigue, accelerated aging, development of unhealthy lifestyle habits and reduced sex drive.”

On the Chi Pendant 4, he said it was in q bid to protect humans from harmful energy that QNET launched the Chi Pendant 4, an innovative wearable health technology that maintains specific frequencies, as well as “harmonising, balancing the wearer’s biofield (energy field), promoting whole-body health and optimal performance for today’s busy lifestyle.

He said: "The Pendant acts as an energy carrier, to encourage and reinforce similar beneficial energies in the wearer’s body. " As a result, the body is empowered to perform, with resilience to stressors in the atmosphere and in daily life and recommended for people who have multiple wireless technologies, like wifi routers, smart home system, Bluetooth-enabled devices etc.

"It is also recommended for people who spend time in a place of work where there are multiple computers and tablets; frequently using phone, tablet or gaming console and having 5G infrastructure in your local area."

Also, QNET’s regional manager, Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr Biram Fall, said in compliance with the company’s zero tolerance for fraudulent acts, it would maintain an open door policy with journalists, as well as ensure “ethical standards of our workers and distributors.

He said: "We have instituted strict regulations with processes to safeguard customers from illegal and fraudulent behavior."

T H I S D AY

3 20

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023

Experts and specialists discussed how to make the state greater, writes ANIETIE USEN

RAJENDRA ANEJA narrates ordeals of Hari Chand and Prakash on their first night in India

THE AKWA IBOM DIALOGUE

THE PLIGHT OF REFUGEES

There is no record to show that such a project had been undertaken anywhere else by a new governor in Nigeria. Every NQRZQ H[SHUW RQ YDULRXV ÀHOGV RI HFRQRPLF development were on ground together, camped for three days, July 24 - 27, 2023, at WKH ÀYH VWDU ,ERP ,FRQ +RWHO DQG *ROI 5HVRUW E\ *RYHUQRU 8PR (QR RI $NZD ,ERP 6WDWH It was tagged Akwa Ibom Dialogue. But the experts and specialists assembled to dialogue and contemplate the future of this pacesetting state went far beyond Akwa Ibom.

They included renowned and respected industrialists, entrepreneurs, investors and professors of international repute.

The audience was diverse as well, and varied. It cut across the political spectrum, ZLWK SHRSOH RI GLͿHUHQW SROLWLFDO DQG

economic backgrounds, perspectives and tendencies seated together to jaw-jaw. They included the past governors of the State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, Obong Victor Attah, former military governor of Rivers and 2JXQ 6WDWHV UHWLUHG *URXS &DSWDLQ 6DP Enwang; a stalwart of the APC, former minister of petroleum and chieftain of the APC, Atuekong Don Etiebiet; former minister of Housing, Chief Ndueso Essien; former minister of power, the respected Professor Barth Nnaji, who personally spearheaded the dialogue in the power sector as a facilitator; former minister of women DͿDLUV 2ERQJDQZDQ 5LWD $NSDQ WKH $NZD Ibom governorship candidate of ADC in the last election, Architect Ezekiel Nyaetok; past and present national lawmakers across all political spectrum in Nigeria as well as high UDQNLQJ R΀FLDOV RI (&2:$6 ,QWHUQDWLRQDO Institute of Tropical Agriculture, (IITA), 1LJHULD *RYHUQRUV )RUXP 1*) $OOFDUH +HDOWK 6HUYLFHV 86$ 113& 183(1* International Institute of Hospitality, USA, Association of Tour Operators of Nigeria, in addition to 14 professors from various Nigerian universities. Backing the governor was his deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, the State Chief Judge, Justice Ekaette Obot, the Secretary to the State *RYHUQPHQW 3ULQFH (QRERQJ 8ZDK DPRQJ others.

Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, former minister of Budget and National Planning presided over the event as the Chairman.

Always calm, calculating and deliberate, he FDOOHG WKH VKRWV HͿRUWOHVVO\ DQG HͿHFWLYHO\ IRU three straight days. He seemed to fully grasp the import of his assignment as one that can make or mar his homeland. He rooted for the latter.

Placed before the experts was the draft HFRQRPLF EOXHSULQW RI *RYHUQRU (QR

known by its acronym as ARISE Agenda, UHSUHVHQWLQJ LQ EURDG WHUPV ÀYH DVSLUDWLRQV in Agriculture, Rural Development, Infrastructure, Security and Education.

7KHVH ÀYH DVSLUDWLRQV ZHUH IXUWKHU EURNHQ down into 18 focal sectors, namely: Power, Education, Health, Agriculture, Youth and Sports, Environment, Women and Children, ,&7 0LQHUDO 5HVRXUFHV 2LO DQG *DV 6ROLG Minerals, Commerce, Trade and Industry, Housing, Transportation, Infrastructure, Tourism, Urban Renewal, Security, Public 6HFWRU DQG *RRG *RYHUQDQFH 5XUDO Development. *RYHUQRU (QR·V (FRQRPLF $GYLVHU Dr. Uduakobong Inam, looking bold and VRXQGLQJ FRQÀGHQW VHW WKH WRQH IRU WKH GLDORJXH 6KH MXVWLÀHG WKH JDWKHULQJ DQG GHÀQHG WKH VFRSH RI GLVFRXUVH ´7KH $5,6( Agenda is more than a political manifesto…

It is not a short, medium or long- term plan.

It is actually a precursor of a long-term development plan…for Akwa Ibom people.

The essence of this dialogue therefore is to provide opportunity for Akwa Ibom people to help chart a roadmap of implementation of the ARISE Agenda” she said. *RYHUQRU (QR·V SUHGHFHVVRU DQG FKHHUOHDGHU *RYHUQRU (PPDQXHO ZKR ZDV DSSHDULQJ IRU WKH ÀUVW WLPH LQ D SXEOLF function in the State since he completed his tenure two months ago, described the economic blueprint of his successor as unbeatable. “Nothing could beat this. It is developmental. It is transformational and it is also transitional…I am sure that Akwa Ibom will shine more with the ARISE Agenda”, Emmanuel said.

Obong Attah was exultant in his view of the ARISE Agenda. “Today represents the restoration of a dream that was beginning to fade…Thank you for bringing back the Akwa Ibom dream…” Attah said. Etiebet, the APC chieftain, spoke in the same vein. “Your Excellency, you have come to renew the true spirit of all Akwa Ibomites…and I want to promise that we shall all stand by you in the development of Akwa Ibom State”. )RU 8GRPD WKH &KDLUPDQ RI WKH RFFDVLRQ what struck him was the surprising ZLOOLQJQHVV RI *RYHUQRU (QR WR VXEMHFW KLV economic blueprint to the scrutiny of critics of Akwa Ibom people before implementation. ´)RU WKH JRYHUQRU WR ZLOOLQJO\ H[SRVH KLV blueprint to sector experts as well as the general public for review and constructive criticism before adopting it as his working tool for governance, is very commendable”.

Udoma said. *RYHUQRU (QR·V UHVSRQVH WR DOO WKH thumbs-up by nationally respected icons was unpretentious and meek. In his written speech he spoke of his conviction that reasoning together across party and ideological lines was the best way to “move the needle of development of our State further”. He said he needed not just a buy-in of Akwa people but for his people to take ownership of the agenda. He said that Akwa Ibom “is working, clearly on ascendancy and on the cusp of greatness”, a stage of development he said requires all Akwa Ibom people to join hands to rise and shine together. He said he IRUHVHHV D YLEUDQW LQFOXVLYH GLYHUVLÀHG DQG highly industrialised Akwa Ibom” that is achievable with the implementation of the reviewed ARISE Agenda.

Usen is a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media

The night was black. A few scattered slayed. He pondered, how much he kerosene lanterns and street lights cast and his wife had lost. His parents were ÁLFNHULQJ VKDGRZV RI WKH KXGGOHG SHRSOH gone. That was a horrendous trauma. A and the tree branches, on the streets. The mountain of grief. To lose your parents, is only sounds were the sobs of the refugees, always dreadful. To lose them in mindless trying to catch some information about their violence, is agonising. loved ones. Who had made it across the Hari Chand would gradually realise border? Who were yet left behind? Who was that their secure life was over. He would slaughtered trying to come to new India? It never see his parents again. He and his was a macabre, rotten night.

ZLIH KDG WR ÁHH DW VKRUW QRWLFH 7KH\ Hari Chand lay on his back, staring at the left, literally, with the clothes they were sky. His wife, Prakash, a young girl of 20, wearing. So, he did not even have a OD\ EHVLGH KLP +H FRXOG KHDU KHU PX΁HG photograph of his parents. Their family weeping, tears rolling down her cheeks. KRPHV ODQGV ÀHOGV ZDUHKRXVHV R΀FHV How many times, had he comforted her, were gone forever. It would never be to no avail. Just a few days ago, they lay in possible to set foot inside the newly their comfortable beds, in their family home formed Pakistan, ever, without a passport in Tandlianwala. They were safe and secure. and a visa. His parents, childhood, youth Now, they were lying on a street in Amritsar had vanished, in a short journey of about in India, on the bare ground, with two bricks four hours from Tandlianwala, Pakistan as pillows. He was also worried about the to India, as a refugee. He would never safety of his siblings, who had made it across YLVLW KLV KRPH ÀHOGV VFKRRO RU FROOHJH the border. They too, were struggling to ever again. snatch some sleep, in the street.

Much later, Hai Chand would lament A person grieves when you lose something why had they not read the signs of the very cherished. You cry. You sob. You times earlier and moved his elderly howl. How do you grieve, when you lose parents to safety? Why had they not moved some money or even readied a house in Amritsar for an emergency?

There would be many laments. However, no one had imagined that a British lawyer QDPHG 5DGFOLͿH ZRXOG YLVLW ,QGLD WR splinter it. He was charged with drawing a line to create India, West Pakistan and East Pakistan, in 36 days. The 3,323 kms. line he drew, cut through rooms, homes, villages and cities. It tore apart the inhabitants. Overnight, neighbours became enemies. Sadly, the acrimony continues, 76 years on.

2Q WKDW IDWHIXO ÀUVW QLJKW LQ ,QGLD +DUL Chand had no money in his pocket. He could not even beg. Much later, he told everything in your life? Then, you are his sons, “Beggars know how to beg. We simply numbed. Hari Chand’s parents were did not know how to beg. So, we ate some stranded in Pakistan. He wondered if they “rotis” (bread) and “dal” (lentils) in the would make it across the border. He was 26 refugee camp.” years old. It would be horrible to be without Hari Chand would gradually begin life their wise counsel, at a young age. Prakash from a scratch, again. However, on that knew that her father and brothers had crossed hurricane of a night, he was anesthetised the border, but was not sure where they were. by trauma. He was trying to comfort his They must be among the refugees scattered heart-broken wife. And, struggling to in the street. make sense of the bizarre happenings The silence of the night, was punctuated around them. by the wailing of the refugees. A dog howled Hari Chand did not weep. He could in the distance. Even the stray dog, sensed QRW DͿRUG WR +H GLG QRW ZDQW WR DJLWDWH the angst of the homeless. At times, a thirsty his wife any further. In any case, for refuge worked the handpump, to draw some how many ill-fated blows can you weep cold water to quench his thirst. at the same time? And, for how long?

Hari Chand and his wife had arrived late Sometimes, life does not give you the evening in Amritsar. Dusk shrouded the time to grieve and cry. At times, life can border town. The Indian army truck that had be cruel. brought them, had to return to ferry more Thus, commenced the journey of my refugees. So, Hari Chand was dropped in a parents in free India, in August 1947.

VXJDUFDQH ÀHOG DQG JXLGHG KRZ WR JR WR WKH Around 5.7 million Ukrainian refugees town.

DUH VXͿHULQJ VLPLODU VWDJJHULQJ ORVVHV RI On the way to Amritsar, their Army convoy family members, children, livelihoods and ZDV DWWDFNHG E\ JXQPHQ ÀULQJ EXOOHWV DW WKH homes. Again, 20,000 Ukrainian children EXVHV 7KH ,QGLDQ VROGLHUV UHWXUQHG WKH ÀUH are languishing in Russia, without their so the convoy passed through. However, the parents. There are 184 million displaced ÀULQJ FODLPHG WKH OLIH RI DQ $UP\ R΀FHU 2QH persons and 35.2 million refugees, in the PRUH ZLGRZ LQ WKLV FRQÁDJUDWLRQ ZRUOG 6XUHO\ ZRUOG OHDGHUV FDQ ÀQG It was a new world. Hari Chand and his solutions to end the agony of refugees wife had never been to Amritsar. They did and innocent children, across the globe.

QRW NQRZ DQ\RQH 6R WKH\ VSHQW WKDW ÀUVW night in a street. They were very hungry, but Aneja had no money or food. In any case when the was the Managing Director of Unilever heart is heavy and the head is fatigued, the Tanzania. He is an alumnus of Harvard hunger for food atrophies.

Business School and the author of books The sudden move to the new India had entitled, “Rural Marketing across dazed Hari Chand and his wife. A few days Countries and “Business Express”. He is a later, he learnt that his parents had been Management Consultant

21 4

T H I S D AY

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023

EDITORIAL

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

REVAMPING THE NATIONAL PARKS (1) The parks are potential sources of foreign exchange

A

s the federal government seeks ways to diversify the nation’s economy from its mono-product, oil, it is important for it to take a closer look at the national parks, which are veritable sources of foreign exchange, if managed properly. National parks are important to the development of any nation that understands how they work, because they can be exploited positively to promote tourism, as many countries, even in Africa, have done to grow their economies and boost their image.

Unfortunately, the national parks in Nigeria are in very bad shape. In fact, they are decrepit, moribund, and obscure.

This has made them havens for poachers of wildlife, and training grounds for terrorists, as with Sambisa Forest.

Besides, none of the three tiers of government is taking biodiversity conservation seriously. That perhaps explains also why massive logging and outright forest destruction are taking place unabated across the country, including inside protected areas. A Chinese company is operating in Nsukka, Anambra State, instigating massive deforestation for charcoal production without oversight by any government agency.

We hope that the administration of President Bola Tinubu will pay attention the National Park Service that needs increased funding. Conservation all over the world is heavily funded. Nigeria should not be left out. Funding for biodiversity conservation in Nigeria should be coming from the government, international NGOs, and the private sector.

For sure, the concept of national parks in Nigeria is UHODWLYHO\ UHFHQW ,W ZDV ÀUVW LQWURGXFHG LQ GXULQJ WKH ÀUVW FRPLQJ RI *HQHUDO 2OXVHJXQ 2EDVDQMR DV WKH +HDG RI 6WDWH ZKHQ .DLQML /DNH 1DWLRQDO 3DUN ZDV HVWDEOLVKHG XQGHU 'HFUHH 1R RI 0LOLWDU\ 3UHVLGHQW *HQHUDO ,EUDKLP %DEDQJLGD LQFUHDVHG WKH QXPEHU WR ÀYH XQGHU WKH 'HFUHH 1R RI ZLWK WKH HVWDEOLVKPHQW RI &URVV 5LYHU 1DWLRQDO Park, Old Oyo National Park, Chad Basin National Park, and *DVKDND *XPWL 1DWLRQDO 3DUN <DQNDUL *DPH 5HVHUYH ZDV XSJUDGHG LQ WR D QDWLRQDO SDUN EULQJLQJ WKH QXPEHU to six in the country. Two more national parks were added MXVW EHIRUH WKH H[LW RI WKH PLOLWDU\ IURP JRYHUQDQFH LQ

WKURXJK 'HFUHH 1R RI QRZ DQ DFW ,W LV LQVWUXFWLYH WKDW 6HFRQG 5HSXEOLF 3UHVLGHQW $OKDML 6KHKX 6KDJDUL GXULQJ D YLVLW WR <DQNDUL *DPH 5HVHUYH LQ VLJKWHG DERXW HOHSKDQWV LQ RQH ZHWODQG DUHD )DGDPD 7KHUH FDQ EH QR EHWWHU LPDJHU\ RI WKH DEXQGDQFH of wildlife in the reserve than that. But today, the depletion of the African elephant population of the reserve is emblematic RI WKH LQHͿHFWXDO SURWHFWLRQ PHFKDQLVP LQ SODFH 7KH IHGHUDO JRYHUQPHQW LQ REOLJHG WKH UHTXHVW E\ WKH %DXFKL 6WDWH government to be given control of Yankari National Park but WKHUH KDV QRW EHHQ DQ\ DSSUHFLDEOH GLͿHUHQFH LQ PDQDJHPHQW $V LW VWDQGV UHFRUGV VKRZ WKDW D WRWDO RI VTXDUH kilometres of conservation area is covered by the national parks and managed by the National Park Service. Both the Bauchi State government and the National Park Service of the federal government are culpable in the wholesale degradation of all the parks in the country and the steady GHSOHWLRQ RI WKH ÁRUDO DQG faunal resources in these protected areas. What the national parks in Nigeria have in common is the tremendous biodiversity that they represent.

But in terms of the management of these resources, they have contributed practically nothing to tourism development in Nigeria.

Their management has demonstrated pitiable lack of capacity in the protection of the resources and has not been DEOH WR HGXFDWH 1LJHULDQV RQ WKH VRFLR HFRQRPLF EHQHÀWV of these national parks. While funds are allocated annually to the National Park Service to manage the national parks, the agency also can collaborate with local and international NGOs, as done in other countries, particularly for research purposes.

As it appears, the National Park Service lacks initiative DQG FUHDWLYLW\ DQG QHHGV WR EH MROWHG WR DFWLRQ 7KH IHGHUDO government has spent almost two years looking for a conservator-general to head the agency. Unfortunately, the same group of civil servants who presided over the rot have been angling to take the position.

The federal government should expedite action on the commercialisation, especially of the tourism aspects of the SDUNV WR SXW WKHP RQ JRRG ÀQDQFLDO VWHDG •To be concluded tomorrow

The federal government should expedite action on the commercialisation, especially of the tourism aspects of the parks to put them on good financial stead T H I S D AY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITORS WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I S D AY 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, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 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 (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.

LETTERS DEMENTIA AND WITCHCRAFT ACCUSATIONS IN IMO The Advocacy for Alleged Witches urges Nigerians to realize that dementia is a real disease and that those with this health condition are not witches. The call has become necessary following the case of Janet Nwobi from Imo State in southern Nigeria. An advocate drew the attention of AfAW WR D )DFHERRN YLGHR ZKHUH 0V 1ZREL ZDV IRXQG QDNHG RQ WKH VWUHHWV 6RPH \RXWKV ZHUH TXHVWLRQLQJ KHU WKH\ VXVSHFWHG her of witchcraft. AfAW sent one of the advocates in Imo State WR FRQÀUP WKH VWRU\ DQG WKH IDWH RI 0V 1ZREL $FFRUGLQJ WR this advocate, “I called a former colleague of mine who was QRZ ZRUNLQJ LQ 2JXWD 0UV 1QRURPHOH VHQW KHU WKH YLGHR 6KH FRQÀUPHG WKDW JRLQJ E\ WKH ,JER GLDOHFW LW ZDV 2JXWD (Vhimeshi. I pleaded with her to help talk to a few people to locate the whereabouts of the woman hoping she had not been harmed.”

Fortunately, some days later the person called back, “She VDLG D FROOHDJXH LQ KHU VFKRRO RQ 0UV ,ZXRULVKD VDLG VKH NQHZ WKH ZRPDQ LQ TXHVWLRQ ZKR ZDV EHLQJ DFFXVHG RI EHLQJ D witch. She said that they were married into the same commuQLW\ RI 8PXHQX 2JXWD WKDW VKH ZDV QRW D ZLWFK EXW ZDV MXVW VXͿHULQJ IURP GHPHQWLDµ

$V WKLV $I$: FRQWDFW SHUVRQ QRWHG 0UV ,ZXRULVKD ZDV helpful. “She promised to get to the house of the woman accused of witchcraft by the next day and get back to me. The QH[W GD\ ZKHQ , FDOOHG 0UV ,ZXRULVKD WROG PH WKDW VKH ZDV talking to her in-laws to get a few more information. When , VSRNH WR KHU WKH IROORZLQJ GD\ VKH ZDV FRQÀGHQW DQG LQformed me that the woman wasn’t harmed, she was rescued by a relative of hers and that it was a case of dementia that made her leave her home at night or any time that her care JLYHUV ZHUH QRW DURXQG 0U ,ZXRULVKD SURPLVHG WR JHW WR KHU WKH QH[W GD\ 7KH IROORZLQJ GD\ , ZDV DEOH WR VSHDN WR 0UV Janet Nwobi and her two daughters-in-law on WhatsApp usLQJ 0UV ,ZXRULVKD 7KH\ ZHUH YHU\ JUDWHIXO 0U ,ZXRULVKD sent me the phone number of one of her daughters-in-law.

With the support of AfAW, our advocate traveled to meet KHU $FFRUGLQJ WR KLP ´2Q WK -XO\ PRUQLQJ WKHUH ZDV a statewide clean up and sanitation exercise and this delayed my moving early. I had to wait until the clean-up exercise was over before I could move. I walked from my house to WeathUDO 5RDG E\ )LUH 6HUYLFH IURP ZKHUH , HQWHUHG D EXV WKDW WRRN PH WR &RQWURO )URP &RQWURO , MRLQHG DQRWKHU EXV WKDW ZDV

JRLQJ WRZDUGV 0JELGL ZKLFK LV D WRZQ RQ WKH 2QLWVKD 2ZHUUL 5RDG D[LV 7KH MRXUQH\ VKRXOG QRW KDYH ODVWHG PRUH WKDQ PLQXWHV EXW EHFDXVH RI WKH RYHU FKHFNSRLQWV RQ WKH URDG LW took us about one and half hours”. +H IXUWKHU H[SODLQHG ´, JRW WR 2JXWD MXQFWLRQ IURP ZKHUH , WRRN D ELNH WR 8PXHQX , FDOOHG 0UV &KLGLQPD 1ZREL GDXJKWHU LQ ODZ WR 0UV -DQHW 1ZREL DQG VKH WROG PH ZKHUH to stop, She came out and took me to their house. We met her, 0UV -DQHW 1ZREL 6KH ZDV O\LQJ RQ WKH ÁRRU EXW FRXOG VSHDN although incoherently. She was happy at the visit. While speaking to Chidinma and Obiageli, I was able to gather that 0UV -DQHW 1ZREL KDG WZR VRQV %RWK RI WKHP ZHUH PDUULHG and had six children. The incident we saw on Facebook was MXVW RQH RI PDQ\ RI VXFK HSLVRGHV 7KH SDLQIXO WKLQJ WKDW KDSpened to her on that day was that someone stripped her naked. But I was told that the person had apologized. I spent about an hour and a half with them and tried to see the oldest man in Oguta whom they said was handling the case but the rain barred me”.

Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches

22

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 •T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2023

23

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

REPO

A T

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email oriarehu.eromosele@thisdaylive.com

08056356325

A U G U S T

S & P INDEX

9 , 2 0 2 3

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

11.25%

CALL

19.12%

INDEX LEVEL

611.31%

1/4 TO DATE

-0.07%

N795.28/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

11.50%

1-MONTH

16.25%

1-DAY

0.03%

YEAR TO DATE

0.48%

*AS AT MONDAY, JULY 24, 2023

3-MONTH

15.75%

MONTH-TO-DATE

-0.7%

Despite AI’s Potential to Boost Digital Transformation, ITU Pushes for Global Regulation

Emma Okonji International Telecommunications Union (ITU), the United Nation’s digital agency that regulates global telecommunications policies, is pushing for the regulation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, while citing lots of dangers associated with the deployment of AI, despite its potential to drive digital transformation across the globe.

ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin was in Washington, DC, last week, for the first time since taking office in January 2023, to conduct meetings with relevant US counterparts at the White House, the State Department, the Commerce Department,

Congress, the private sector and other organisations, on how best to regulate AI technology.

ITU, which is the oldest agency in the UN system, facilitates international connectivity in communications networks, allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits, develops the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies seamlessly interconnect, and also strives to improve access to information and communications technologies (ICTs) to underserved communities worldwide.

In one of the US meetings, Bogdan-Martin raised discussions to the fast-moving nature of AI technology and the need for proper regulation.

She recalled the AI for Good Summit held in early July in Geneva, where the UN SecretaryGeneral, Antonio Guterres, spoke to the Security Council, emphasising the potential of AI to accelerate human development while also cautioning against the malicious use of AI technology and highlighting the need for a universal approach to AI governance.

She met with Cathy McMorrisRodgers and Frank Pallone, who are Chair and Ranking Member respectively of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, together with the sub-committee on Communications and Technology.

The committee, similarly, the oldest continuous standing committee in the US House of

Representatives, has one of the broadest jurisdictions, which includes electronic communications and the internet; broadcast and cable television; privacy, cybersecurity and data security.

She also separately briefed senior staff of that committee, and also met with Representative Sara Jacobs, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Africa sub-committee.

In addition, she met with Senator Todd Young, who was among those recently tapped by the US Senate Majority Leader to explore avenues for regulating AI. While on Capitol Hill for meetings, she observed the Senate Judiciary sub committee’s hearing on Principles of Artificial Intelligence, which also examined

what AI regulation might need to look like.

While most people are afraid that the use of AI ChatGPT will kill academic research among students and researchers, others are of the view that the use of AI technology to launch cyber attacks and spread misinformation could be counter-productive and dangerous to global economies.

The UN Secretary-General had said that if AI became primarily a weapon to launch cyber attacks, generate deep fakes, or for spreading disinformation and hate speech, it would have very serious consequences for global peace and security.

“Look no further than social media. Tools and platforms

that were designed to enhance human connection are now used to undermine elections, spread conspiracy theories, and incite hatred and violence,” Guterres said.

“Malfunctioning AI systems are another huge area of concern, and the interaction between AI and nuclear weapons, biotechnology, neurotechnology, and robotics, is deeply alarming,” Guterres further said.

But analysts told THISDAY that regulation of AI technology would stiffen its growth and adversely affect private investments in AI, which they said has reached high growth rate across globe.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

National Assembly Tasked on Illegal Allowances, Pending RMAFC Bill Raheem Akingbolu As the nation faces economic challenges to meet its financial obligations amidst corrupt practices and revenue leakages, the Chairman, Centre for AntiCorruption and Open Leadership (CACOL), Mr. Debo Adeniran, has called on members of the 10th National Assembly and other regulatory agencies, to strengthen regulatory bodies in the financial and revenue sector.

According to him, to bring

sanity into the public service and uphold financial discipline among politicians and civil servants, there is urgent need to review the unbridled manner in which government officials dip hands into the treasury and allocate illegal allowances to themselves.

In a telephone conversation with THISDAY, Adeniran said the Renewed Hope Agenda of Tinubu’s administration would be an effort in futility if there is no financial discipline and conscious effort to fill the loopholes in the disbursement

of wages and allowances.

He said: “Over the years, civil servants and even members of the National Assembly have been allocating illegal allowances to themselves at the expense of the masses. Except we are pretending that all is well, we all know there is so much waste in the polity and this is adversely affecting the economy. If the 10th National Assembly is indeed committed to quality representation, they should review their allowances and the allowances due for ministries and

various government agencies.”

As a major step towards bringing in the necessary sanity, the CACOL’s chairman also called on the assembly members to, as a matter of urgency, expedite action on recommitting the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) Bill for passage as the one passed by the previous Assembly has lapsed.

After his inauguration, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed some important bills passed by the 9th National Assembly into law, which include the Police Pension Bill,

Electricity Bill, Data Protection Bill as well as the Students Loan Bill, but a few other bills including the RMAFC’s is still pending.

RMAFC is a body with a wide range of statutory functions as regards the overall revenue issues including monitoring, disbursement and determining its allocation to the federal, state and local governments among other things.

The sponsor of the Bill, Senator Olubumi Adetunmbi, who represented Ekiti North in the 9th Assembly said the

amendment would reinforce the commission’s mandate and powers to, among other responsibilities, monitor revenue generation and disbursement on behalf of the people and government of Nigeria.

He said: “The commission, despite being a body established by the constitution, and whose independence is further guaranteed by the Act establishing it, has been hamstrung by certain limitations.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

M A R K E T D ATA A S AT W E D N E S D AY, A U G U S T 9 , 2 0 2 3 BONDS Change Updated Time DESCRIPTION Price Yield (%) August 7, ^13.53 23105.76 9.60 -0.02 2023 MAR-2025 ^12.50 227, 101.03 12.00 0.00 August JAN-2026 2023 ^16.2884 110.61 12.53 -0.01 August 7, 17-MAR-27 2023 ^13.98 23August 7, 104.49 12.65 0.00 FEB-2028 2023 ^14.55 26August 7, 105.93 13.03 -0.01 APR-2029 2023

BILLS MATURITY

Discount Yield

Change (%) Updated Time

MATURITY

NTB 24-Aug23 NTB 7-Sep23 NTB 26-Oct23 NTB 9-Nov23

3.88

7, 0.00 August 2023

NTB 7-Dec23

JULI CP II 25OCT-23 ZEDC CP I 17-NOV-23 NSDL CP IIA 22-NOV-23 MTNN CP V 23-NOV-23 NSDL CP IIB 23-NOV-23

3.89

4.13

4.14

4.00

4.04

5.25

5.32

5.75

5.86

OTC F X F U T U R E S

CPS

7, -0.01 August 2023 7, 0.00 August 2023 7, 0.00 August 2023 7, -0.01 August 2023

Discount Yield

Change (%) Updated Time

17.84 18.56

7, 0.00 August 2023

16.11 16.87

7, 0.00 August 2023

20.39 21.68

7, 0.00 August 2023

12.97 13.49

7, 0.00 August 2023

20.40 21.70

7, 0.00 August 2023

CONTRACT Current Updated Time TENOR Contract Rate ($/₦) (MONTH) August 7, NGUS AUG 13 914.19 28 2024 2023 August 7, NGUS SEP 14 927.51 25 2024 2023 August 7, NGUS OCT 15 938.61 30 2024 2023 August 7, NGUS NOV 16 949.70 27 2024 2023 August 7, NGUS DEC 17 960.80 24 2024 2023

24

THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, ͰͮͰͱ ˾ T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

BRANDS & MARKETING

Goldberg Lager Collaborates with Osun Osogbo Festival to Promote Cultural Heritage

L-R: Area Sales Manager – Osogbo, Olatunde Ojo; Trade Marketing Execution Manager - West Zone, Josiah Akinola; Corporate Affairs Advisor, Babatunde Gbadebo; Regional Trade Marketing Manager – Ibadan, Seyi Oyedeji; and Osun Osogbo Festival Consultant, Semiu Adenekan, with the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji and his wives during the official announcement of Goldberg as sponsors of this year’s edition of the Festival in Osogbo, Osun State Raheem Akingbolu

G

oldberg Lager Beer has to announced its participation in the forthcoming Osun Osogbo Festival.

With a strong commitment to promoting cultural heritage and fostering community engagement, the company said it is set to enhance the festival experience for participants, highlighting its dedication to celebrating Yoruba traditions and enriching the cultural fabric of Yorubaland.

Set to hold on August 11, 2023, Goldberg said it is pleased to associate with one of Nigeria’s most iconic and vibrant cultural celebrations, which attracts thousands of participants around the world.

Rooted in the rich history of the Yoruba people, the festival pays homage to Osun, the goddess of fertility and water, and is marked by colourful processions, traditional rituals, artistic performances, and a deep sense of unity.

“Goldberg Lager is more than just a beer; it’s a bridge that connects people to their roots and brings communities together,” said Brand Manager of Goldberg, Kunle Aroyehun.

“We are incredibly excited to participate in the Osun Osogbo festival and contribute to the vibrant

atmosphere that showcases the essence of Yoruba culture. Through Goldberg’s partnership in this year’s festival, the brand aims to deepen its engagement with festival-goers by offering a range of captivating activities and experiences.

Festival attendees can look forward to immersive brand activations, interactive cultural displays, and an opportunity to learn more about the significance of Osun Osogbo and the Yoruba heritage, “Aroyehun added.

Goldberg Lager Beer, with its deep-rooted connection to Yoruba culture, has consistently championed cultural events across Yorubaland and beyond. As an integral part of Nigerian heritage, the brand has become synonymous with celebrating and preserving traditions that resonate with the Yoruba people, embodying their values and customs across several of its platforms, dedicated to honoring the industrious spirit of Yorubas. Goldberg Beer proudly showcases initiatives like Isedowo, which uplifts and champions artisans, and Ariya Omoluabi, a Yoruba music talent hunt platform.

Recall that the Ataoja of Osogboland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, said in 2015 that the Osun Osogbo festival and Goldberg

Lager beer are almost an inseparable pair, given their shared values and culture. The monarch disclosed this at a stakeholders’ forum held on the sidelines of the festival.

The royal father, while praising the brand for its consistency in promoting the cultural values of the Osogbo people, said, “Goldberg has contributed immensely in uplifting the Osun Osogbo festival to its recent international status. This partnership has been mutually beneficial to both Goldberg and the Osogbo kingdom, and this makes us very proud.”

Oba Oyetunji, who described Nigeria Breweries Plc as a friend of the Osogbo people, given its continued support for the Osun Osogbo festival, expressed joy that Goldberg was yet again a major sponsor of the annual festival. While acknowledging the benefits such sponsorship has brought to his kingdom, he urged the team not to relent in its support for the culture and good values of the Nigerian people.

In the meantime, Goldberg’s commitment to promoting cultural events extends beyond the festival season. The brand has been a driving force behind various initiatives that celebrate Yoruba traditions, including support

for traditional music and dance performances, storytelling, and art exhibitions.

The brand participates in major festivals in Yorubaland, including the Ojude Oba festival and the Olojo festival. These events project the excellence of Yoruba culture, which is further highlighted by the brand in its ongoing Eku Ise 2.0 campaign.

As a frontrunner in promoting responsible drinking, Goldberg Lager ensures that its presence at the Osun Osogbo festival aligns with its dedication to social responsibility. The brand’s commitment to promoting a safe and enjoyable festival experience is underscored by its responsible drinking campaigns and initiatives that encourage moderation and the importance of designated drivers.

About Goldberg Lager Beer Goldberg Lager Beer is a flagship brand in the Nigerian beverage industry, known for its strong connection to Yoruba culture and traditions. With a commitment to celebrating and preserving cultural heritage, Goldberg Lager Beer actively supports and promotes various cultural events, festivals, and initiatives across Yorubaland. Through its engagements, the brand brings people together, encourages responsible drinking, and creates memorable experiences that resonate with the rich history of the Yoruba community.

Transforming Online Shopping Experience with Tech Innovation Technology has amplified the insatiable human desire for consumption, propelling consumers to pursue a shopping experience that combines convenience and innovation, writes Emma Okonji

C

onsumers yearn for the seamless ability to browse vast digital catalogues, compare prices, read reviews, and effortlessly make well-informed purchasing decisions.

This trend is evident in recent findings by the National Retail Federation (NRF), which show that consumers fully grasp the vital role of convenience in shaping their shopping preferences. The survey reveals that over 90 per cent of consumers are inclined to choose a retailer based on convenience, relying on them to streamline the process and save valuable time and effort in their fast-paced lifestyles.

EMPOWERING CONSUMERS, BUSINESSES

Giving insight of how technology innovation is transforming consumers’ shopping experience by empowering consumers and businesses, the Chief Marketing Officer, Jumia Nigeria, Lere Awokoya, told THISDAY that the evolution of innovation has continually improved on the shopping experience for both consumers and sellers, empowering them in numerous ways. According to him, for consumers, it has brought about a significant shift in the shopping landscape, granting access to a vast array of products and services that were once out of their reach. With the ability to research, compare, and make informed decisions, consumers have become discerning shoppers, confident in their choices. This empowerment not only enhances the shopping experience but also drives economic growth and social development.

He said the rise of e-commerce has leveled the playing field for businesses and entrepreneurs, providing them with an equal opportunity to showcase their offerings to a global audience. The expansion of digital platforms has opened up new markets for businesses. A study by the International Trade Centre found that small and medium- sized enterprises (SMEs) that engage in international e-commerce are seven per cent more likely to survive than those that don’t. Through innovative and convenient solutions, businesses can reach customers beyond geographical boundaries,

allowing even small enterprises to compete with larger players, Awokoya said.

RETAIL REVOLUTION

Addressing the retail shopping experience in Nigeria, he explained that the retail industry had experienced remarkable evolution in buying behaviour, driven by the relentless penetration of e-commerce and the sweeping tide of technological adoption. Consequently, businesses must obsess about their customers to keep up with their rapidly changing demands, tastes and preferences. At the same time, embrace new technologies that will enable agility, efficiency and creativity; these are some of the essential ingredients for winning in such a dynamic business environment.

“One of the key players in this retail revolution is Jumia Nigeria. The company has transformed the Nigerian shopping experience over the past 11 years. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 also acted as a catalyst, accelerating the growth and adoption of e-commerce in Nigeria.

The combination of the e-commerce boom and the unprecedented challenges, posed by the pandemic, ushered in a new era of dynamic growth and innovation in the Nigerian retail industry,” he said.

TRANSFORMATION

As Jumia marks its 11th anniversary in Nigeria, it is a moment to reflect on the transformative power of innovation in reshaping the shopping experience for millions of Nigerians. In 2012, the brand set out in Nigeria with a vision to give every consumer access to a wide range of products at their fingertips, irrespective of location or socio-economic background.

One game-changer and notable contribution by the company is the renowned Jumia Black Friday, an annual shopping event that offers mind-blowing discounts and deals across a wide range of products and categories. As indicated in a Statista report, Nigeria’s e-commerce market reached a valuation of around $2.5 billion in 2021 and is projected to experience an annual growth rate of 14.7% from 2021 to 2025. This annual Black Friday shopping event significantly influences this trend, shaping consumer habits and offering customers easy access to discounted products and a rewarding shopping experience.

“Jumia’s triumph in Nigeria also mirrors the ongoing digital revolution unfolding within the financial space in the country. There has been a

recent surge in the availability and creation of digital payments, furthering financial inclusion and reducing dependence on cash transactions. The company’s venture into the digital payments sphere with JumiaPay offers a secure and seamless method for customers to make online payments, eliminating the need for cash transactions and enhancing financial inclusivity.

“The company’s commitment to driving innovation is also demonstrated in its track record of incorporating groundbreaking partnerships to deliver optimal customer experience. Notably, Jumia recently partnered with Trove, Nigeria’s first micro investing platform to provide a seamless experience for customers looking to diversify their portfolios. By combining e-commerce and investment capabilities, the company continues to position itself as a comprehensive platform that caters to various financial needs, contributing to the overall digital transformation in Nigeria,” Awokoya said.

ECONOMIC GROWTH

Awokoya believes that Jumia’s commitment to innovation has not only brought convenience to the customer but has also opened up economic prosperity opportunities for numerous individuals in the country.

According to him, the e-commerce platform has become a launchpad for local entrepreneurs, enabling them to conveniently reach a broader customer base and grow their businesses.

“Through our seller program, we have also provided opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to thrive in the digital era, empowering over 30,000 MSMEs and brands to reach millions of consumers in Nigeria.

Furthermore, Jumia’s impact extends beyond the borders of major cities. Noteworthy contributions include the JForce initiative, a nationwide network of sales consultants, who earn commissions for successful orders placed for friends, family or others in the offline space.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2023

25

BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

FG Urged to Ban Importation of Foreign Computer Hardware Emma Okonji The federal government has been called upon to toe the path of Indian government by placing restriction order on all foreign computer hardware, in order to promote

local production and assemblage of indigenous computer in Nigeria.

Some Nigerian technocrats and ICT professionals who recommended the India policy for the Nigerian government, argued that a ban on importation of computers and allied

hardware would give a boost to the indigenous companies producing same products in-country, some of which are struggling.

India recently imposed restrictions on importation of laptops, tablets, all-in-one personal computers and

ultra-small computers and servers with immediate effect.

According to the technocrats, the move to do same in Nigeria is in the spirit of product nationalism whereby countries deliberately promote patronage of home- made products

Nigeria’s Adewale Wins Forbes’ Best Africa Leadership Award Emma Okonji A Nigerian and Co-founder/ Chief Visionary Officer, Digital Encode Limited, Dr. Adewale Peter Obadare has emerged as Forbes Best of Africa Outstanding Digital Trust Leader of the Year 2023.

The award is another testament to Obadare, a well-recognised subject matter expert with numerous successful engagements to his credit in

Africa.

A letter of notification of his nomination, signed by President, Custom Solutions Media, for Forbes Media, Mark Furlong, reads: “Through its awards, Forbes acknowledges and celebrates Dr. Obadare as among exemplary leaders, top businessmen, political leaders and dynamic personalities with records for far-reaching impacts and positive contributions to the development of their

respective countries, sectors and industries.”

“Forbes wishes to commend your work as the co-founder and chief visionary officer (CVO), Digital Encode Ltd, a reputable company with successes around the globe,” Furlong wrote.

Obadare was honoured with the prestigious award at the Waldorf Hilton Hotel, London, United Kingdom on the 18th of July, 2023, during the FIN/

Forbes Best of Africa Awards Reception.

The ceremony was graced by dozens of the business community leaders, policy makers, entrepreneurs, politicians, opinion leaders, the media, Forbes’ partners and international investors.

Speaking shortly after receiving the award, Obadare commented that, it was one of the best experiences of his professional career.

Report: CryptoRom Scammers Add AI Chat Tool to Toolset Nosa Alekhuogie Sophos, a global leader in innovating and delivering cybersecurity as a service, has released new findings on CryptoRom scams, a subset of pig butchering schemes designed to trick users of dating apps into making fake crypto currency investments.

According to the report, since May this year, Sophos X-Ops has observed CryptoRom fraudsters refining their techniques, including

adding an Artificial Intelligence (AI) chat tool, like ChatGPT, to their toolset. Scammers also expanded their coercion tactics by telling victims their crypto accounts were hacked and more upfront money is needed.

Sophos X-Ops additionally discovered that scammers were able to sneak seven new fake crypto currency investment apps into the official Apple App and Google Play stores, upping the potential for victims, the report said.

Analysing the report, the Principal Threat Researcher at Sophos, Sean Gallagher, said: “Since OpenAI announced the release of ChatGPT, there has been broad speculation that cybercriminals may use the program for their own malicious activities. We can now say that, at least in the case of pig butchering scams, this is, in fact, happening. One of the main challenges for fraudsters with CryptoRom scams is carrying out convincing,

sustained conversations of a romantic nature with targets; these conversations are mostly written by ‘keyboarders,’ who are primarily based out of Asia and have a language barrier.

Using something like ChatGPT can be a more efficient and effective way to keep these conversations going, making the scams less labor intensive and more authentic. It also enables keyboarders to simultaneously engage with multiple victims at one time.”

and services to boost local productivity, create more jobs, encourage proficiency, and discourage capital flight.

They therefore urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to look at the Indian policy on importation of computer hardware and do same in Nigeria.

Former President, Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria (ISPON), and Fellow of Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Mr. Chris Uwaje, said President Tinubu should adopt the Indian policy as well as make it mandatory that all foreign computer manufacturers set up local production facilities in Nigeria in partnership with indigenous computer companies.

To further encourage such partnership, he recommends that

such new manufacturers should be given pioneer status incentives of a minimum of five to seven years.

Another ICT expert, Mr. Dotun Ali-Balogun, urged President Tinubu to mandate that all government ICT operations are run on the technical strength of locally assembled computers.

His thought was corroborated by two others, Messrs Michael Ikeogwu and Ayodele Ogundele who posited that now is the best time for the federal government to adopt Buy-Nigeria policy in ICT as a way of discouraging capital flight and encouraging local productivity.

The new Indian policy is exactly what the Tinubu government should do, Balogun said.

QNET Product Expo 2023 Attracts NigerianYouths Emma Okonji The QNET product expo 2023, which held recently from August 5-6 at 10 Degrees Event Centre in Ikeja, Lagos, attracted thousands of Nigerian youths who thronged out in their numbers to catch a glimpse of QNET’s wellness and lifestyle products.

Satisfied with the products on display after a tour, the Executive Director, Financial Literacy for All who doubles as Managing Consultant, Infinite Intel Consult, a Human Capital Development Organisation, Mr. Laja Shoniran, said: “I was quite impressed with what I saw during the product tour. I am an advocate of wellness, which is good for everybody, particularly for retirees, and I saw quite a number of products that I believe will be quite useful particularly for the older adults. The product expo is a welcome development. Few days ago it was announced that 500 directors will be retired from the federal civil service,

and the products on display are some of the things that are needed to sustain and keep retirees fit. People need to live healthy lives and the products will help to achieve it.”

According to him, “The expo is a good thing happening to Nigeria, and the one that gladdens me the most is the educational part of it, the Q-Learn. I am so excited about it because one of the challenges that we have in this part of the world is that many times, we have the desire to start a business, but because we don’t have the requisite skills, the business fizzles out within few years.”

Fielding questions from journalists, the Regional General Manager for QNET in sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Biram Fall, said the tour of the QNET’s Product Expo 2023 in Lagos, was an opportunity for QNET to showcase its wellness and lifestyle products as well as the QNET business opportunities to Nigerians and the general public.

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2023

26

BUSINESSWORLD

DEVELOPMENT

Championing the Youth Cause for Africa’s Devt As the World Youth Day and International Youth Day 2023 is being marked around the globe this month of August, the focus is on the efforts of visionary leaders in the development community who are bringing young people across Africa closer to the United Nations. Ugo Aliogo highlights some strides of Niyi Ojuolape, a development expert, in harnessing the youth bulge for greater opportunities for the younger generation.

N

igeria has been blessed with some of the most brilliant minds serving in the international development sector. Within the United Nations agencies particularly, several of them continue to sojourn across continents and regions to lead the country programmes of their respective agencies. Among the ranks of these UN diplomats, Niyi Ojuolape and his pioneering work with and for young people strongly catches the eye.

THISDAY Development first noticed the high performance of Ojuolape in 2015 in New York, when he was the Chief of Staff to the late Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of UNFPA - the UN Population Fund. Although relatively new to the agency at the time, Ojuolape was already an experienced technocrat who had served in Nigeria’s Ministry for Health and the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA).

Following a brief stint as Deputy Representative in DRC Congo, Ojuolape moved to Ghana as the Country Representative where he steered UNFPA’s agenda for young people to uncommon heights. First, he initiated the Babatunde Osotimehin Memorial Essay Prize, in celebration of the former UNFPA Executive Director and as a germane avenue to stimulate creative writing among young people on issues regarding the United Nations and their own communities. The competition invited entries from graduates in Ghana and winners were given the honour of receiving their prizes from the UNFPA Regional Director of West and Central Africa.

The above, however, was only the start of Ojuolape’s plans to bring young people in Ghana closer to the UN system. In late 2018, Ojuolape initiated the Youth Leaders (YoLe) Fellowship. An open call ensured where recent graduates from Ghana’s tertiary institutions applied to the competitive fellowship and the best candidates were selected by the UNFPA. Tens of candidates were selected, most of them young women; in line with UN’s commitment to achieving workplace gender balance.

These fellows and the succeeding batches had access to organised training, overseas conferences, talks and meetings with ranking UN officials in Ghana as well as policymakers in their country. Above all, they had a dedicated space, known as the Orange Loft, built from the scratch with facilities and activities to keep them engaged.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Orange Loft happened in June 2019, by the current UNFPA Executive Director, Natalia Kanem. Evidently, the structure serves as a physical representation of the organisation’s long term commitment to young people in Ghana.

Leading UNFPA’s collaboration with the Ghanaian government on the population and housing census in 2021, Ojuolape would come to leverage on the energies and drive of the fellows among other actors. There were of course, several local and international partners who brought to bear their technical capacity on the exercise. Yet, the involvement of the fellows in the population and housing census was an important experience for them to learn the systematic interaction

Niyi Ojuolape (middle) with candidates of the UNFPA Youth Fellowship

between planning and development.

Enthralled by the objectives he accomplished, THISDAY was moved to understand where his passion for young people stems from. “A major aspect of the UNFPA’s mandate is a commitment towards the welfare of adolescent and youth,” Ojuolape explained. “Young people bring with them a unique energy and drive. It is almost infectious. They come into any setting and they are quick to find more effective or innovative ways of doing things. And because they have the best tools at their disposal to navigate the new world that we live in, their contribution matters. As you may be aware, Africa is the continent with the youngest population. So naturally, it is essential to make room for young people to reach their potential,” he emphasised.

Moving to Somalia as UNFPA Representative a year ago, Ojuolape set his sights on enlivening the potential of young Somalis through both formal and informal channels of engagement.

Given its peculiar context as a country recovering from decades of conflict and escalating climate disaster, the challenge appears relatively daunting.

“There is also so much to be optimistic about here,” Ojuolape quipped.

His belief in the potentials of young people, palpable in his tone.

“If you know the story of Somalia, you will know there is much to be hopeful about. Despite the known challenges, the country has a vibrant youth population, and a large diaspora community that are financially invested in the country and the youth potential.

You also have several international partners supporting UNFPA’s work with young people in the country,” he emphasised. Some of his plans for the country office are already manifesting.

“We are looking to replicate the youth fellowship programme here in Mogadishu and plans are currently afoot. It is known as the Somalia Youth (SoYo) Fellowship and we’ll be having our first cohort this August, which will equip them with leadership and innovative skills as well as mentorship from leaders of various UN agencies in Somalia,” Ojuolape disclosed. “Already, we have an ongoing programme where young Somalis are brought into peacebuilding processes by training and identifying those with capacity to be peace champions in their communities,” he added.

Beyond these measures, Ojuolape has also digitally enhanced the UNFPA Youth centres in Somalia, which are eight currently, while several others are being constructed. These spaces are open to all young people in Somalia

“Young people bring with them a unique energy and drive. It is almost infectious. They come into any setting and they are quick to find more effective or innovative ways of doing things. As you may be aware, Africa is the continent with the youngest population. So there is an added impetus for those of us facilitating the work of the United Nations in Africa to ensure that young people are given all the support they need to reach their potential.”

“If you know the story of Somalia, you will know there is much to be hopeful about. Despite the known challenges, the country has a vibrant youth population, and a large diaspora community that are financially invested in the country and the youth potential. You also have several international partners supporting UNFPA’s work with young people in the country.” across different geographical locations and targeting mainly out of school youth.

That is, those with no formal education.

The Youth Centre offers literacy and numeracy courses, and provides digital skills and related life-skills. Additionally, age-appropriate information regarding sexual and reproductive health are also shared in the space. UNFPA ensures the quality of service and learning in the centres by providing oversight on the recruitment of expert trainers and instructors.

These efforts have been effectively steered by the country office, with Ojuolape leveraging on his experience to attract the needed funding by donors and related partners. Hence, expanding the quality and capacity of youth-related programmes and activities of the UNFPA. Evidently, young people in Somalia have a lot to be hopeful for with Ojuolape driving and deepening UNFPA’s programme in the country. With initiatives like these taking place in other countries in Africa, including Nigeria, the present appears better and the future looks brighter for the youths around the continent.

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 • T H I S D AY

27

T H I S D AY ˾ AY, AUGUST 10 , 2023

28

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

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

BMGF: Providing Support for Global Health Development Projects Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, BMGF, have selected nearly 50 global health and development projects that will contribute to shaping equitable access to Artificial Intelligence. The selected projects from 17 LMICs are aligned with the foundation’s goal of fostering a global innovation ecosystem in places where it will have the most impact. Thus, each recipient will receive up to US$100,000 to advance its research project, for a total of US$5 million in grants

Bill Gates

T

hese days, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the way to go and what better way to streamline it for good than to ensure equitable access.

Understandably, the global call for locally led innovation will help build an evidence base for use of artificial intelligence large language models in low- and middleincome countries to improve the livelihood and well-being of communities globally.

Thus, following an overwhelming response to its most recent Grand Challenges request for proposals, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, announced a group of nearly 50 grant recipients who are developing global health and development solutions for their communities using AI-enabled large language models (LLMs).

In a statement made available to THISDAY, the group said: “Guided by the goal of reducing global inequity, the call for proposals specifically targeted researchers and innovators in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

“Responsible and safe use of AI-driven LLM technology has the potential to help solve some of the world’s toughest health and development challenges. However, for these models to be useful in LMICs, researchers in LMICs need to participate in the design, application, and testing of this technology as it rapidly evolves.

A robust evidence base will fill gaps in access and our knowledge about the application of such tools to address problems across LMICs in an equitable way.”

“Too often, advances in technology deliver uneven benefits in many parts of the world due to existing patterns of discrimination, inequality, and bias,” said Juliana Rotich, co-founder of iHub, an incubator for Nairobi’s young technology entrepreneurs and who has agreed to serve on the foundation’s new AI Ethics and Safety Advisory committee.

“AI is no different, with most of the tools being developed in the Global North using data from lower-resourced regions that is often incomplete or inaccurate. To realize the full potential of AI, it must be developed

Belinda Gates responsibly and ethically, with the needs of the end user in mind. Solutions can be transformative when they are locally inspired.”

Sponsorship for 50 Projects Today’s announcement is part of the foundation’s Grand Challenges program, a family of initiatives fostering innovation to solve pressing global health and development problems. The foundation received more than 1,300 proposals, more than 80 per cent of which were from LMICs, within two weeks of posting its request for proposals.

The nearly 50 selected projects from 17 LMICs are aligned with the foundation’s goal of fostering a global innovation ecosystem in places where it will have the most impact. Each recipient will receive up to US$100,000 to advance its research project, for a total of US$5 million in grants.

The findings of these projects will be shared at the Grand Challenges Annual Meeting in Dakar, Senegal, this October.

“The vibrant energy, boundless creativity, and unwavering commitment from innovators to tackle the most vexing challenges has sparked a wave of interest and excitement in the positive impact AI can have in the lives of the vulnerable,” said Zameer Brey, interim deputy director for Technology Diffusion at the Gates Foundation. “These local innovators are harnessing the seismic power of AI and LLMs in ways that can be paradigm-shifting for their local communi-

ties and beyond. We believe the most impactful technological advancements include those that begin and end with the people they affect most.”

Prompted by Grand Challenges to build upon existing technologies, researchers will work to address a wide range of health and development challenges throughout LMICs. Examples include how LLMs can help frontline health workers in India, where one woman dies every 20 minutes in childbirth, improve the management of high-risk pregnancies; tailor agricultural advice to individual smallholder farmers in Uganda, who are exposed to the devastating effects of crop diseases and pests; provide teacher coaching to improve educational outcomes in Mali; and give critical financial advice through a voice-to-text interface to rural women farmers and business owners in Nigeria.

“For 20 years, the foundation has sought and seeded innovation to solve the world’s hardest problems.

We believe that accelerating progress in health and development requires collaboration among innovators from as many disciplines and as many countries as possible,” said Kedest Tesfagiorgis, deputy director of Global Partnerships & Grand Challenges at the Gates Foundation.

“Maximizing the potential of AI

For 20 years, the foundation has sought and seeded innovation to solve the world’s hardest problems. We believe that accelerating progress in health and development requires collaboration among innovators from as many disciplines and as many countries as possible

requires a global community of creative thinkers bringing their unique perspectives and learning from each other.”

As these projects get underway, the foundation is eager to continue working with and learning from partners around the world to ensure the benefits of AI are relevant, affordable, and accessible to everyone, with an emphasis on LMIC communities, in a manner that upholds safety, ethics, and equity.

About Grand Challenges The Grand Challenges family of programs stems from a century-old idea that crowdsourcing solutions to a defined set of unsolved problems can spark innovation and accelerate progress. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and its Grand Challenges funding partners first used Challenges—open requests for grant proposals—in 2003 to focus attention and effort on pressing global health and development problems for those most in need.

Together, Grand Challenges partners have awarded more than 3,600 grants to a diverse pool of problem solvers in more than 100 countries, while at the same time fostering a global innovation ecosystem in places where it will have the most impact. The foundation and its Grand Challenges partners will continue to launch RFPs to support innovators from around the world in tackling the hardest, most urgent Grand Challenges.

About the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Guided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives.

In developing countries, it focuses on improving people’s health and giving them the chance to lift themselves out of hunger and extreme poverty.

In the United States, it seeks to ensure that all people—especially those with the fewest resources—have access to the opportunities they need to succeed in school and life. Based in Seattle, Washington, the foundation is led

by CEO Mark Suzman, under the direction of Co-chairs Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates and the board of trustees.

29

T H I S D AY ˾ AY, AUGUST 10 , 2023

NEWS

FERTILITY Dettol Makes Significant Strides through Hygiene Education Precious Ugwuzor Nigeria’s leading hygiene brand, Dettol, has taken proactive steps in combating poor hygiene practices in Nigeria with its impactful Clean Naija initiative.

In collaboration with The Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA), Dettol birthed the Hygiene Quest curriculum to address the challenges of sanitation and hygiene with a transformative journey in Lagos, Abuja and Kwara states — reaching 92 schools, 96 communities, 35 healthcare facilities, 9,200 students, 7,000 community members, and over 25,000 mothers.

The curriculum consists of various modules that incorporates comics, mini-games, physical worksheets, and interactive activities to deliver learning.

After the intervention, the assessment carried out by measurement partners Slum BOE 3VSBM )FBMUI *OJUJBUJWF 43)*/ TIPXFE BNPOHTU other positive impact, that there was a 31.9% Increase in excellent knowledge in Handwash amongst School children, a 40.9 per cent increase in excellent practice of handwashing and

hygiene amongst Community .FNCFST BOE B TJHOJàDBOU increase in excellent hygiene knowledge amongst pregnant women in health care facilities.

The achievements were celebrated in a closeout event in Lagos which was well attended by stakeholders from 3FDLJUU /JHFSJB 5IF 8FMMCFJOH Foundation Africa (WBFA), 43)*/ 5IF 'FEFSBM .JOJTUSZ PG Education, the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), and other key players in public health and education sectors.

Commenting on the partnerTIJQ 5BO[JN 3F[XBO .BSLFUJOH %JSFDUPS 3FDLJUU 4C 4BIBSBO "GSJDB FYQMBJOFE i"U 3FDLJUU XF MJWF CZ our purpose which is to protect, heal and nurture in the relentless pursuit of a cleaner and healthier world, and this purpose drives everything we do as a company. “ With our flagship brand Dettol, we believe nobody should feel powerless in protecting who and what they love. It is why we created the Clean Naija Initiative, as an integrated multi-level campaign with the aim of creating awareness, education and driving behavioural change to achieve a cleaner and healthier Nigeria.

“As we celebrate our achievements, let us remember why we celebrate — good health and wellbeing. We must always recognize its importance to our society and the risks we face without proper hygiene and sanitation.”

3FQSFTFOUJOH UIF 'PVOEFS of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, H.E Toyin Ojora-Saraki; Dr. Ayomide Tonade, Senior Programs Lead, Wellbeing Foundation Africa highlighted the importance of the partnership “Women, infants and children are the highest burden bearers of the effects of poor sanitation and IZHJFOF 3FDPHOJTJOH %FUUPM T monumental impacts so far and its alignment with our visions at Wellbeing Foundation, we are glad to see our collaboration provide better care to thousands of people across the nation. We undoubtedly look forward to much more impact with them.”

Through the Clean Naija initiative and the initiatives under its umbrella — School )ZHJFOF BOE UIF /FX .VN T Program — Dettol has educated over 9 million children and mothers on proper hand and personal hygiene habits and demonstrated its dedication to building a cleaner and healthier Nigeria.

LUTH Crisis: Presidency Wades in as ICPC Invites Embattled CMD, Others for Questioning ˾ ÚÙÕÏÝÚÏÜÝÙØ ÎÏÝÍÜÓÌÏÝ ØÏáÝ ËÝ ÐËÖÝÏ Rebecca Ejifoma There are indications that the federal government may have ordered a fresh selection process to appoint a substantive Chief .FEJDBM %JSFDUPS GPS UIF -BHPT University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba.

This development follows investigations which revealed that the previous process was fraught with irregularities, graft and alleged bribery.

Thus, the presidency is said to have directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other 3FMBUFE 0GGFODFT $PNNJTTJPO (ICPC) to unravel the role money played through alleged bribery of major actors of the Federal .JOJTUSZ PG )FBMUI BOE PUIFS critical players during the past administration, which did not follow laid-down rules.

The ICPC is said to have TFOU JOWJUBUJPOT UP -65) $.% Prof Wasiu Adeyemo and his co-contender in the contest for the office, Prof Femi Fasanmade.

In a leaked memo addressed UP '.P) MBTU 5IVSTEBZ UIF *$1$ requested the ministry to come along with the two contenders to undergo a mandatory fresh process before any of them can be cleared to have emerged in the appointment process.

In line with the ICPC’s SFRVFTU UIF .JOJTUSZ T %JSFDUPS of Hospital Services, Dr Andrew Noah, forwarded written memos to Adeyemo and Fasanmade to comply with the directives on the appointed date.

The memo read in part: “In continuation of the screening exercise for candidates shortlisted for appointment BT $IJFG .FEJDBM %JSFDUPS Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), kindly inform the candidates to come to the Commission Headquarters for an Interview to explain some transactions in their accounts on Friday 11, August 2023 by 12 pm.”

The message further read: “Also, they are to come along with printed copies of all their

bank statements as earlier requested.”

The latest development was said to have sent panic to the management and wild jubilation to hospital staffers, throwing up high-level controversy and uncertainty in the tertiary teaching hospital. .BOZ IBWF XPOEFSFE XIZ those who implemented the previous selection process allowed such grave irregularities to mar the outcome of the process.

As a rule, it was learnt the process leading to the emergence PG B TVCTUBOUJWF $.% NBOEBUFT ICPC clearance.

Besides, it was further learnt that the discovered breaches also included interviews to select $.%T PG àWF PUIFS UFBDIJOH hospitals conducted on the same day.

3FQPSUT BMTP IBWF JU UIBU OPU only LUTH was affected. .FBOXIJMF XIFO 5)*4%": contacted LUTH spokesperson, .T 0 0 'BLFZF TIF EFTDSJCFE the reports making the round as, “False news”.

OLIGOHYDRAMNIOS (LOW AMNIOTIC FLUID) Part 2

L

ast week, we started a topic on Oligohydramnios. We defined Amniotic fluid and Oligohydramnios, explained the causes, signs and symptoms.

This week, we will conclude with complications that may arise with low amniotic fluid, diagnosis, prevention, management and treatment.

COMPLICATIONS OF OLIGOHYDRAMNIOS Amniotic fluid is very important for healthy fetal growth and development so abnormally low fluid levels may be harmful no matter when it occurs. However, the particular risks and potential complications from oligohydramnios vary depending on the trimester in pregnancy when the condition occurs.

Generally speaking, oligohydramnios during the first six months of pregnancy is more dangerous.

These complications could consist of: r -PX BNOJPUJD áVJE JO UIF àSTU IBMG PG pregnancy may result in developmental birth defects caused by pressure compression of the fetus’s organs as they develop inside the womb. r %FGPSNJUJFT Due to the fetus’s inability to move and stretch due to a very low amniotic fluid level, it may develop contractures or tightness in the joints.

If oligohydramnios is discovered in the third trimester of pregnancy (weeks 28 to 40), complications could include: r 3FTQJSBUPSZ JTTVFT PS VOEFSEFWFMPQFE lungs: The amniotic fluid is crucial for lung development because it forces the air sacs to open and encourages them to expand. A few lung tissues that cause breathing issues after delivery could be caused by extremely low amniotic fluid levels. r " WFSZ MPX BNOJPUJD áVJE MFWFM NBZ SFTVMU in intrauterine growth restriction and umbilical cord constriction, which may cause fetal distress and increase the risk of premature or cesarean delivery. r *G UIF XBUFS CSFBLT UPP TPPO UIFSF JT BO increased risk of infection.

Foundation LaunchesVirtual Radiation Oncology Course for Childhood Cancer

DIAGNOSIS OF OLIGOHYDRAMNIOS The diagnosis of oligohydramnios should be confirmed by the following: r 1BUJFOU IJTUPSZ For conditions linked to oligohydramnios, a thorough maternal and family history, including prior medical history, previous pregnancies or medication usemay be used as a screening tool. r 1IZTJDBM FYBNJOBUJPO During the examination, the clinician may look for symptoms like urinary incontinence, feeling damp or fluid leakage.

A speculum examination or measurement of fundal height may be used to look for decreased fundal size or fluid pooling in the perineum. r %PQQMFS VMUSBTPVOE This is used to assess the exchange between the placenta and the fetus by measuring the blood flow to the fetal blood vessels.

TBJE i5IF 1FE30$ QSPHSBNNF is based on the prompt and proper treatment tenet of the foundation”, adding “We are working to ensure proper treatment and thereby improve childhood cancer outcomes in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa by providing much-needed access to training to empower radiation oncology professionals in the region.

“We have eliminated the cost and time inconvenience of travel, bypassed the problem of limited training spots available to African professionals, and reduced the risk and dangers of travel exposure while maintaining the quality of content; by connecting experienced experts who are far away with professionals on the continent who are eager to continue improving their practice and expertise’’.

He said 80% of the world’s children reside in low and middleJODPNF DPVOUSJFT -.*$T NBOZ of which are in sub-Saharan Africa. Yet, only 20% of experts and resources for Pediatric cancer reside in these regions.

In sub-Saharan Africa, Childhood cancer diagnosis

PREVENTION OF OLIGOHYDRAMNIOS There is little or nothing that may be done to prevent oligohydramnios. However, attending all prenatal checkups and be honest with the clinician concerning your symptoms and medical history will help in diagnosis. Listed below are some things that may help prevent Oligohydramnios. r %P OPU TNPLF Nicotine in cigarettes raises UIF QPTTJCJMJUZ PG 130. 1SFNBUVSF 3VQUVSF 0G .FNCSBOF PS QMBDFOUB JTTVFT "EEJUJPOBMMZ nicotine contributes to low birth weight and other health issues for the infant. r &BU B WBSJFUZ PG IFBMUIZ GPPET Fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, and beans are examples of healthy foods. You may be able to prevent diabetes and gain a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy by eating healthy foods. r5BLF QSFOBUBM WJUBNJOT BT EJSFDUFE The minimum amount of folic acid in the supplements should be about 400 micrograms. Spina bifida and other birth defects are prevented by folic acid. r %SJOL MJRVJET BT EJSFDUFE Dehydration and high blood pressure may be avoided by drinking more fluids. r $POUSPM EJBCFUFT PS PUIFS NFEJDBM DPOEJUJPOT Diabetes may harm the unborn

Mary Nnah The Dorcas Cancer Foundation, a non-profit organisation has completed the second edition and official launch of the Pediatric 3BEJBUJPO 0ODPMPHZ 7JSUVBM $PVSTF LOPXO BT 1FE30$ This groundbreaking initiative is an innovative approach to bridging the huge gap in access to specialised training for pediatric cancer treatment in sub-Saharan Africa. The foundation has been working since 2015 to improve childhood cancer care in Africa.

5IF 1FE30$ "GSJDB QSPHSBNNF aims to develop healthcare professionals’ capacity by increasing proficiency and expertise in pediatric radiation oncology. Head of Programmes at The Dorcas Cancer Foundation (TDCF) and member, the Board of Directors of the International Society of 1FEJBUSJD 0ODPMPHZ 4*01 .S Korede Akindele, elaborated on UIF QSJNBSZ HPBM PG UIF 1FE30$ project.

Akindele who is also Chair of the Young SIOP Network,

and incidence are on the rise with a significant disparity in TVSWJWBM SBUFT -.*$ DPVOUSJFT record a dismal 30% survival rate for pediatric cancers, a huge contrast to the 80-90% survival rates recorded in high-income countries (HICs). )F FYQMBJOFE UIBU 3BEJPtherapy is a crucial element of multimodal cancer treatment for pediatric cancer patients, and with an expected rise in pediatric cancer cases, adding that the demand for radiotherapy in -.*$T MJLF /JHFSJB JT QSPKFDUFE to increase.

“The region faces a critical shortage of trained radiation oncology professionals, a shortage that seems to be worsening with the exodus of healthcare professionals out of the region to presumed greener pastures.

Compounding this shortage is the severely limited availability of training programs and education resources in pediatric radiation oncology for all cadres of healthcare professionals treating children with cancer in sub-Saharan Africa”, he added.

With Dr. Kemi AILOJE drkemi@lifelinkfertility.com www.lifelinkfertility.com +2348033083580

child by causing excessive weight gain. Work with the clinician to control blood sugar levels before and during subsequent pregnancy if you have diabetes.

MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENT There is no long-term treatment for oligohydramnios, but certain procedures could momentarily raise amniotic fluid levels, depending on the fetus’ gestational age.(age of baby).

The gestational age of the fetus determines the course of treatment for oligohydramnios. When the fetus is nearly at full term (37 weeks), the clinician may decide that inducing labor early is best for the baby’s safety. If not up to term the clinician may conduct more frequent prenatal visits. However, there are few factors that may momentarily increase amniotic fluids which include the following: r #JPQIZTJDBM QSPàMF This procedure monitors the fetus’s movement, muscle tone, heart rate, breathing and the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus in the uterus. r " GFUBM OPO TUSFTT UFTU During this test, the fetus’s heart rate and movements are monitored both when it is active and when it is not. The clinician might ask you to perform kick counts.

This entails keeping track of how many times an hour you feel the baby move. r.POJUPSJOH The clinician may schedule a frequent prenatal visit. This may include weekly ultrasounds to check the amount of amniotic fluid. r"NOJPJOGVTJPO Here, a special fluid (saline solution) is injected into the amniotic sac to replenish any lost or depleted amniotic fluid. When a woman’s membranes have ruptured during labor, amnioinfusion may be administered. Umbilical cord compression may be prevented by the fluid’s ability to relieve pressure on the cord. r-BCPS JOEVDUJPO PS $FTBSFBO EFMJWFSZ The fetus may need to be delivered in cases where the fetal circulation may be compromised or if the fetal heart rate becomes abnormal in order to prevent birth injuries. r 4VQQPSUJWF UIFSBQZ While temporary solutions like fluid intake and bed rest may help increase amniotic fluid, they do not address the underlying cause of oligohydramnios. Typically, oral hydration is advised, but in some situations, intravenous hydration may be required. r.FEJDBUJPOT Antibiotics may be administered to treat oligohydramnios, which are caused by premature membrane rupture, as well as medications like steroids that may help the fetal lungs develop if the placenta is not functioning properly. r"NOJPDFOUFTJT This process is used to collect an amniotic fluid sample from the womb. Cells in the fluid can be examined for birth defects and other issues.

CONCLUSION Oligohydramnios, also known as low amniotic fluid, is a potentially serious condition. It may hinder the development of the unborn child and lead to pregnancy complications. Even though the majority of women who are diagnosed with low amniotic fluid go on to have healthy babies. The clinician will monitor you closely to determine the safest treatment plan. The best way to spot potential problems and reduce more complications is to share pregnancy symptoms and make sure to attend all prenatal appointments.

30

T H I S D AY THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2023

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Sterling Bank Commits N50 Billion to Develop Education Nume Ekeghe Sterling Bank Plc, has announced the allocation of up to N50 billion in funding to support the development of Nigeria’s education infrastructure and drive the sector’s productivity and contribution to the Nigerian economy.

The Divisional Head of Business Growth and Transaction Banking at Sterling Bank, Obinna Ukachukwu, disclosed this in a statement adding that the bank will invest in courses and professions that are in demand and have a high potential of generating sustainable income for the individual and the economy.

Ukachukwu said the bank’s focus is on professions that enable individuals to contribute productively to their communities and the nation, where there is ready demand in the

public and private sectors to absorb the graduates, thereby shortening the period from graduation to productivity.

According to him, “ We will support infrastructural development needed to produce skilled labour in specific sectors of interest. Most sectors broadly cover health, and public goods and services like utilities, power, water, and waste management etc., we believe that if the government is focused on developing these basic services, we will need skilled manpower to drive them, and these skills can only be provided by the universities.”

Ukachukwu said it is important to focus on building professions that can solve Nigeria’s problems rather than pursuing grandiose projects with little applicability to society or the economy. He also

noted that foreign investments in the Nigerian education sector may not be the most practical solution, as local investment is more than capable of bridging the development financing gap.

He said the bank introduced a nine-month diploma program in software engineering, costing between N3 million-N3.5 million per student.

“So, we started with a diploma program in software engineering for nine months, which costs between N3 million-N3.5 million per head, and everybody that has gone through it has got a job and is paying back their loans.

We have told ourselves that in every field that people can be independently productive for the country or get employment in, we are ready to put capital behind it, whether it is in the development of infrastructure or giving student loans,” Ukachukwu said.

Head of Products & Innovation, 9PSB, Akeem Salam; Chief Executive Officer, Parthian Partners Oluseye Olusoga and Co-Founder, Maplerad, Obinna Chukwujioke, at the Nigeria Fintech Forum in Lagos... recently

MARKET INDICATORS

Stanbic IBTC HighlightsTrade Export, Financing Benefits Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc, recently participated in an Export Capacity Building Programme for registered exporters organised by the Nigerian Export Promotion Council.

Manager, Trade Finance, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Olatunde Oladejo, in his speech discussed how effective trade export strategies can open doors to new markets, drive revenue growth, and strengthen business relationships.

According to Olatunde, “Despite the challenges faced

by the export sector, the non-oil export sector has emerged as a significant propeller of the Nigerian economy. Considering this trend, Stanbic IBTC Bank has a spectrum of measures to meet exporters’ needs.”

Relationship Manager, Africa China Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Henry Oradiegwu, emphasised the significance of trade relations and partnership between Africa and China. He shed light on the immense opportunities for Nigerian businesses to tap

into the Chinese market and Stanbic IBTC Bank’s role in facilitating these connections through its extensive AfricaChina Banking platform and the Africa China Trade Soluton (ACTS).

Regional Coordinator, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) Southwest Regional Office, Lagos, Akintunde Folorunso, provided valuable insights into the policies and initiatives put forth by the NEPC to support and promote exports from Nigeria.

MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) MARCH 2023 Money Supply (M3)

54,634,063.50

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

442,402.18

Money Supply (M2)

54,191,661.32

-- Quasi Money

32,839,133.46

-- Narrow Money (M1)

21,352,527.87

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,445,439.42

---- Demand Deposits

119,907,088.45

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

5,992,904.55

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

48,641,158.95

NNPC Calls for Balanced Approach to Energy Transition

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

70,596,115.20

---- Credit to Government (Net)

27,529,720.19

Mary Nnah

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

0.00

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

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

43,066,395.01

--Other Assets Net

11,123,812.79

Reserve Money (Base Money

15,975,739.59

--Currency in Circulation

1,683,498.35

--Banks Reserves --Special Intervention Reserves

14,292,241.24 419,889.49

Chief Upstream Investment Officer for NUIMS, NNPC Limited, Mr Bala Wunti, has stressed the importance of a balanced approach to energy transition at the 46th edition of the Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE) held recently in Lagos.

The conference, hosted by the SPE Nigeria Council, focused on the theme “Balancing Energy Accessibility, Affordability, and Sustainability: Strategic Options for Africa.”

Wunti was represented by Mr Andrew Grant, the Head of

PSC Investment Management, NUIMS, during a panel session on, “The transition towards Energy Sustainability: Strategies and Tools for developing countries.”

In his presentation, Mr Grant emphasized the need to balance energy demand and supply in managing the energy transition.

Energy transition, he explained, is an attempt to stop first-world growth, while energy security, on the other hand, insists on continued investment.

He pointed out that recent global events like the ongoing war in Europe and policy changes have created a substantial investment drive in the energy sector, even

in fossil fuels.

Meanwhile, he added, the push for the energy transition is still ongoing, with many companies, banks, and investors adopting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) requirements for investments.

Citing the global energy mix, he highlighted that although energy demand would continue to rise until 2050, oil and gas would remain major energy sources, contributing more than 50% to the total energy mix. He stressed the importance of continued investment in oil and gas production alongside the pursuit of net-zero emissions.

ALAT by Wema Unveils Summer Internship Programme ALAT by Wema, a digital bank, has announced the launch of its eagerly anticipated Summer Internship Program which will not only serve as a remarkable learning opportunity for young talents but also highlights Wema Bank as an exceptional place to work.

The initiative, according to the Divisional Head, Brands, People and Culture, Ololade Ogungbenro, is designed with a commitment to nurturing future leaders, offering

hands-on experience that bridges the gap between academia and the corporate world.

She says participants will gain invaluable insights into the dynamic banking industry while contributing to real-time projects that impact the country.

“The summer internship program isn’t just about professional development; it’s a testament to Wema Bank’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and collaborative work environment. Participants

will have the chance to interact with seasoned professionals, immerse themselves in innovative projects, and truly experience the bank’s unique culture.”

Ogungbenro adds.

The ALAT Summer Internship Program is open to undergraduates between the ages of 15 and 22.

Selected participants will undergo a comprehensive orientation and mentorship, working side by side with seasoned professionals across various departments.

GOXI Microinsurance Emerges Company of the Year GOXI Microinsurance Limited, has been awarded the Micro Insurance Leadership Company of the Year 2023 by the African Leadership Review.

In a statement, Chief Executive Officer, GOXI Microinsurance Limited, Mr. Shina Gbadegesin noted that the company was

honoured and proud to receive the award and attributed it to the’s company’s commitment to leadership excellence and its impact on the development of the African economy through micro-insurance.

He stated: “We are committed to empowering lives and securing futures through micro-insurance

solutions. We are open to partnership with microfinance banks, institutions, and different forms of association, telcos, aggregators and other veritable stakeholders collaborating to deliver risk management solutions to low-income, micro, and smallscale enterprises.

˾ ÙßÜÍÏ ̋

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

April 2023

Inter-Bank Call Rate

15.80

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

18.00

Treasury Bill Rate

5.73

Savings Deposit Rate

4.59

1 Month Deposit Rate

7.32

3 Months Deposit Rate

7.92

6 Months Deposit Rate

9.84

12 Months Deposit Rate

8.18

Prime Lending rate

14.05

Maximum Lending Rate

28.59

˾ ÙØÏÞËÜã ÙÖÓÍã ËÞÏ ̋ ͯͱϱ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT 17 JULY, 2023

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $82.06 a barrel on Friday, compared with $81.53 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), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

T H I S D AY ˾ AY, ͯͮ˜ ͰͮͰͱ

31

MARKET NEWS

SEC, PENCOM, NGX Reiterate Commitment to Deepening Securities Lending in Capital Market KayodeTokede With the aim of enhancing investor participation and securities lending transactions, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), National Pension Commission (PENCOM) and Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) have reaffirmed their commitment to further developing the securities lending landscape in the Nigerian capital market.

This commitment was reiterated during the NGX Securities

Lending workshop held yesterday, in collaboration with Central Securities Clearing System Plc (CSCS), Cardinalstone Partners, Stanbic IBTC Nominees, and the Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria (PenOp). The virtual workshop with the theme “Business Facilitation Act 2023 as a catalyst for deepening Securities lending in Nigeria,” brought together diverse stakeholders, including retail and institutional investors, Pension Funds Administrators,

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

Fund Managers, ETF Issuers, regulators, and policymakers.

The Divisional Head, Capital Markets, NGX, Jude Chiemeka, highlighted in his opening remarks that one of the significant achievements during the previous administration of President Muhammadu Buhari was the assent of the Business Facilitation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2022 on February 14, 2023. This legislative milestone led to crucial amendments being made to Section 89 (2) of the Pension

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

QUANTITY TRADED

Reform Act, allowing pension assets to qualify for securities lending, subject to guidelines issued by PENCOM. Chiemeka emphasized that these amendments create new possibilities within Nigeria’s securities landscape, particularly for institutional investors like Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs).

“In light of this, NGX and PENCOM will forge a close collaboration to deepen this space for the benefit of Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders and the

T R A D E D

VALUE TRADED ( N )

MAIN BOARD

A S O F

pension industry at large, “ he stated Chiemeka also underlined NGX’s ongoing commitment to partnering with all relevant stakeholders in the market to enhance securities lending.

According to him, “This collaborative effort aims to foster the growth and development of the capital market in Nigeria and across the African continent”.

Delivering his goodwill remarks, the Director of Registration, Exchanges, Market Infrastructure, and

Innovation, SEC, Abdulkadri Abass, represented by Senior Manager, Franca Ebube, emphasized that SEC remains resolute in upholding a market that is just, organized, and efficient, prioritizing the safeguarding of investor interests.

He highlighted that the recent provision within the Business Facilitation Act, which permits Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) to partake in securities lending, will undoubtedly deepen the market and increase liquidity.

AU G U ST / 9 / 2 3 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

32

THURSDAY, ͹͸˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ T H I S D AY

DANGCEM

MTNN

FBNH ʬ

ʬ ʬ

Industrial Goods

AFR-ICT

Banking

Consum-

er Goods

Oil & Gas Insurance

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V o l u m e

T o p 10 G a i n e r s T ic k er

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

Vo lum e

P ric e C hg %

GUIN EA IN S

0.33

10.0%

T ic k er ST ER LIN GN G

32.7

-2.0%

OM A T EK

0.33

10.0%

F ID ELIT YB K

21.1

-3.8%

15.9

-8.3% -0.7%

T A N T A LIZ ER

0.36

9.1%

UN IVIN SUR E

A B B EYB D S

1.59

8.9%

UB A

12.3

C H ELLA R A M

4.00

7.5%

T R A N SC OR P

9.8

0.6%

M B EN EF IT

0.51

6.3%

CHA M S

9.4

-4.8% 10.0%

A IIC O

0.70

6.1%

OM A T EK

9.3

C OR N ER ST

0.99

5.3%

GUIN EA IN S

9.2

10.0%

UP D C

1.12

4.7%

GLA XOSM IT H

7.0

-7.9%

P R EST IGE

0.51

4.1%

VER IT A SKA P

7.0

3.7%

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

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

T ic k er

Value

P ric e C hg %

N A SC ON

36.90

-10.0%

M TNN

468.2

-1.4%

M ULT IVER SE

3.15

-10.0%

Z EN IT H B A N K

213.3

0.0%

J OH N H OLT

1.20

-9.8%

UB A

176.6

-0.7%

D A N GC EM

320.00

-9.1%

F ID ELIT YB K

161.3

-3.8%

UN IVIN SUR E

0.22

-8.3%

GT C O

146.7

0.0%

GLA XOSM IT H

9.85

-7.9%

WA P C O

141.9

1.1%

J A IZ B A N K

1.80

-5.3%

ST ER LIN GN G

113.8

-2.0%

M A YB A KER

5.50

-5.2%

A C C ESSC OR P

105.2

-0.3%

-4.8%

UC A P

98.1

3.4%

-4.5%

ET I

85.9

3.3%

CHA M S R EGA LIN S

0.99 0.42

33

THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2023 • T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS A Mutual fund (UnitTrust) 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

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate InvestmentTrust) 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 08-Aug-2023, unless otherwise stated.

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 258.76 259.91 36.74% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 5.99% Nigeria International Debt Fund 332.79 332.79 11.15% Afrinvest Dollar Fund 107.65 108.75 3.96% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 11.74% AIICO Balanced Fund 4.44 4.52 30.76% 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 100.00 100.00 7.88% Anchoria Equity Fund 186.93 189.32 28.96% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.30 1.30 5.89% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com info@anchoriaam.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 28.82 29.69 31.35% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 630.58 649.59 20.98% ARM Ethical Fund 49.26 50.74 9.18% ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.15 1.15 1.89% ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.13 1.13 2.41% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 8.82% ARM Short Term Bond Fund 1.04 1.04 0.11% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com; Tel 08069294653 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 100.39 100.39 10.57% AVA GAM Fixed Income Naira Fund 1,130.45 1,130.45 5.52% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 173.04 174.25 28.28% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 8.93% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.23 2.23 11.45% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.78 2.84 -19.25% CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.02 1.02 5.11% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 10.55% Paramount Equity Fund 24.15 24.67 41.85% Women's Investment Fund 192.45 195.86 27.71% CHD Nigeria Bond Fund 98.61 98.61 12.10% CHD Nigeria Dollar Income Fund 1.00 1.00 11.38% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.32% Cordros Milestone Fund 155.00 156.06 21.02% Cordros Fixed Income Fund 107.16 107.16 9.79% Cordros Halal Fixed Income Fund 104.51 104.51 5.84% Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 112.59 112.59 7.30% CORONATION ASSETS MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com, Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.00 1.00 8.12% Coronation Money Market Fund 1.43 1.45 25.88% Coronation Balanced Fund 1.40 1.40 3.10% Coronation Fixed Income Fund EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A EMERGING AFRICA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@emergingafricafroup.com Web:www.emergingafricagroup.com/emerging-africa-asset-management-limited/, Tel: 08039492594 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Emerging Africa Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 13.39% Emerging Africa Bond Fund 1.07 1.07 10.83% Emerging Africa Balanced Diversity Fund 1.26 1.26 38.59% Emerging Africa Eurobond Fund 104.86 104.86 5.49% FBNQUEST ASSETS MANAGEMENT LIMITED invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Bond Fund 1576.12 1576.12 11.73% FBN Balanced Fund 256.09 258.49 28.24% FBN Halal Fund 132.04 132.04 13.27% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 10.00% FBN Dollar Fund 124.97 124.97 7.10% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 236.97 240.05 43.09% FBN Specialized Dollar Fund 110.44 110.44 9.17% 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 6.94% Legacy Debt Fund 3.52 3.52 -1.48% Legacy Equity Fund 2.64 2.69 31.92% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.30 1.30 3.30% 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 Balanced Fund 5,158.38 5,193.23 37.47% Coral Income Fund 3,884.04 3,884.04 7.68% Coral Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.12% FSDH Dollar Fund 1.17 1.17 6.14%

GUARANTY TRUST FUND MANAGERS LIMITED enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.gtcoplc.bank; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Guaranty Trust Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Guaranty Trust Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Guaranty Trust Equity Income Fund (VEIF) N/A N/A N/A Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End N/A N/A N/A 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 1.78 1.81 11.24% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,187.17 1,187.17 6.22% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: www.meristemwealth.com/funds/; Tel: +2348028496012 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 NORRENBERGER INVESTMENT AND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LIMITED enquiries@norrenberger.com Web: www.norrenberger.com, Tel: +234 (0) 908 781 2026 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Norrenberger Islamic Fund (NIF) 102.67 102.67 11.65% Norrenberger Money Market Fund (NMMF) 100.00 100.00 11.88% Norrenberger Dollar Fund (NDF) ($) 102.31 102.31 12.17% 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 2.00 2.06 27.76% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.86 12.22 7.63% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 10.88% PACAM Equity Fund 2.12 2.16 49.87% PACAM EuroBond Fund 127.94 131.83 15.22% SCM CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT 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 The Frontier Fund 160.51 165.09 27.68% 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 1.07 1.07 10.30% 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 4,606.89 4,644.81 35.91% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 252.52 252.52 7.20% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.93 1.96 54.37% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 344.07 344.07 9.88% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 345.51 349.22 47.83% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.50% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 16,464.92 16,657.67 50.77% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.42 1.42 10.14% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 125.24 125.24 7.13% Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund 121.36 121.36 14.08% Stanbic IBTC Absolute Fund 4,821.57 4,821.57 13.34% Stanbic IBTC Aggressive Fund 4,690.83 4,748.84 68.71% Stanbic IBTC Conservative Fund 4,986.51 5,011.35 31.06% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Equity Fund 1.25 1.27 37.21% United Capital Balanced Fund 1.74 1.75 34.02% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.35 1.36 25.84% United Capital Sukuk Fund 1.13 1.13 11.92% United Capital Fixed Income Fund 1.90 1.90 6.94% United Capital Eurobond Fund 121.70 121.70 5.76% United Capital Global Fixed Income Fund 1.05 1.05 8.72% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.05% Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Balanced Strategy Fund N/A N/A N/A Zenith ESG Impact Fund N/A N/A N/A Zenith Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Zenith Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD funds@vetiva.com Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund N/A N/A N/A

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

121.32 54.90 101.29 10.08

6.61% 3.55% -11.73%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

20.77 93.50 245.00 17.40 16.40

20.87 93.50 245.00 17.50 16.50

34.09% -27.36% 142.94% 38.44% 60.07%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

108.39

0.00%

Fund Name

SFS REIT Union Homes REIT Nigeria Real Estate Investment Trust UPDC REIT

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

I N F R AST R U CT U R E F U N D 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.

34

THURSDAY, ͹͸˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

ICAN’S 6TH SOUTHERN ZONAL CONFERENCE...

L-R: Edo State Commissioner for Finance, Budget, Economic Planning and Development, Mrs. Adaze Aguele-Kalu; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; President, Institute of Chartered Accountant of Nigeria (ICAN), Dr. Innocent Iweka Okwuosa; Chairman, Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), Hon. John Osagie Inegbedion, and Edo State Accountant General, Mr. Julius Osemen Anelu, during ICAN’s 6th Southern Zonal Conference in Benin City,... yesterday

Oyebanji Rolls Out Palliatives to Cushion Effect of Fuel Subsidy Removal in Ekiti Akwa Ibom governor names 18-man palliative committee Okon Bassey in Uyo and Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has rolled out palliatives to cushion the impact of the removal of fuel subsidy on residents, which include students, workers and pensioners.

Relatedly, in Akwa Ibom State, the government has constituted an 18-man committee to handle distribution of palliatives to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal on the people in the state.

In Ekiti, the Chairman of the State Palliatives Committee and Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akin Oyebode, who said a decision

like fuel subsidy removal would naturally come with short term pains, said the palliatives would stand in the gap.

Oyebode spoke in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, yesterday, while giving report of the outcome of the committee meetings, which he said the governor had approved for immediate implementation.

Membership of the committee comprised government representatives and other stakeholders including the organised labour.

He said these include: “Payment of one year’s leave bonus for state and local government workers.

Payment of one month’s pension arrears for state and local government

pensioners.

“Implementation of consequential adjustment for workers on GL. 14 to GL. 17 for state and local government workers.

“Implementation of 90 per cent CONHESS and 100 per cent Hazard Allowance for health workers at the local governments. Implementation of salary parity for clinical staff of the Hospitals’ Management Board.

“Implementation of financial benefits of 2020 and 2021 promotions for State and Local Government workers. Immediate payment of one-month subvention arrears to tertiary institutions.

“Provision of free shuttle buses for workers and students to ease

transportation to/from work and school respectively."

He added: “In addition to the already mentioned interventions, Mr. Governor has also approved additional interventions designed to directly impact our poorest and most vulnerable residents.”

These are: “Payment of N5,000 as a conditional cash transfer to 10,000 households from August till December 2023 with emphasis on our aged people.

“Inclusion of 10,000 persons in the Ulera Wa Health Insurance programme. A food distribution programme that will commence this month.

“The distribution of inputs to

Diri Raises the Alarm as Atlantic Ocean Surge Endangers Bayelsa Communities Over 250 houses submerged in Odioma community Governor solicits FG’s support Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has said coastal communities in the state are in danger of being submerged by the Atlantic Ocean.

Diri raised the alarm on Tuesday, when he visited Odioama community in Brass Local Government Area to assess the devastation from ocean encroachment.

His Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, in a statement, stated the governor lamented the effects of coastal erosion on the community and others on the banks of the Atlantic Ocean while addressing the Odioama council of chiefs, elders, youths and women at the community town hall.

He said he decided to personally visit the community after sending a team to have first-hand knowledge of the plight of the people.

Diri, who was accompanied on the visit by Speaker of the House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere, Senator Nimi Barigha-Amange, commissioners and other government officials, assured that the state government would embark on a 1.5km shore protection project in order to check the ocean surge that had submerged about 250 buildings in the last 10 years.

Diri said the government would commence the shoreline project while awaiting the federal government's collaboration. He noted however that it was beyond its scope to address such challenges in Odioama,

Koluama, Sangana, Agge and other communities facing similar threats.

According to him, engineers in the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure were to brief the state executive council on the cost of the project.

He called for the intervention and support of the federal government on the shore protection project, stating that the federal government needed to reciprocate Bayelsa State's immense contribution to the economic wellbeing of the country.

He said: "l did not come here for political campaign but rather to see the plight of the Odioama people and have first-hand knowledge of what is happening to the community.

"I cannot sit in my office to hear that houses are giving way. I have been taken round and seen houses that are giving way to the ocean surge. The community's cemetery has been threatened.

“By tomorrow (Wednesday), l will see what the engineers in the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure will bring to the state executive council meeting. We know that the cost will be prohibitive and beyond the state government.

"We call on the federal government that while we use our meagre resources to start something, we want them to also collaborate with us in stopping the sea encroachment in Odioama and other communities.

Bayelsa State has given so much to Nigeria and so, let the federal government also reciprocate.

“While we use our meagre

resources to construct shoreline protection, I like to call on the federal government to be part of the story in checking the perennial environmental problems of erosion and flooding ravaging our communities.

"Whatever we are doing here will be like a drop in the ocean. But together with the federal government, there is so much we can achieve."

Responding to the community’s requests, Diri directed the Commissioner for Water Resources to undertake water project in the

community as well as directed his Lands and Housing counterpart to take over the building of a pavilion.

On the request for a 500 KVA electricity generator, he said solar lights would be provided instead just as he also approved the construction of a National Youth Service Corps members' lodge.

The governor further approved the immediate renovation of the community's primary health centre, clearing of 200 hectares of land and purchase of fishing nets.

farmers as well as financial support to small businesses and our informal sector,” the commissioner said.

He added” “The fiscal benefits of the difficult decisions taken by President Bola Tinubu are already being felt and these interventions, an urgent and immediate response to the hardship being faced by our people, is only possible because of the additional revenues earned by the three tiers of government.”

Eno Names 18-man Palliative Committee in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Government has constituted an 18-man committee to handle distribution of palliatives to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal on the people in the state.

The State Governor, Mr. Umo Eno who inaugurated Palliatives Committee, named the Secretary to the State Government, Enobong Uwah, as Chairman; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Frank Archibong as Secretary; Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress, Sunny James and fifteen other members drawn from the government, organised labour and civil society organisations as members.

The governor outlined the terms of reference for the committee to include providing in details, the measures of how the palliative items would be distributed to positively affect the target population of the poor across the state; creating awareness on measures taken by the state

government, and ensure success in the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of palliative measures, while upholding integrity in the discharge of their responsibilities.

He disclosed the receipt of 3,000 bags of rice so far, from the federal government and tasked the Committee to ensure that the palliatives get to people who really need them, evaluate and recommend to the state government other measures, to add to the federal government’s palliatives.

This, he stressed, should be done with reference to economic realities and availability of funds in the State, within a time frame of two weeks.

"Apart from the recommendations, we have to know how you want us to make it trigger down so that you will also be part of the implementation, not just for civil servants, but for Akwa Ibomites generally, particularly to the most vulnerable, those who really need these things.

"I am going to make sure I do whatever it takes to ensure that we cushion the effects of all of these, but it has to be within what the capacity of the State Government," he stated.

The governor thanked the organised labour for the cooperation enjoyed by his administration since assumption of office especially in ensuring peaceful conduct during the August 2 protest, describing the action as lawful and in line with the tenets of democracy and particularly commended the labour leaders for not allowing the process to be hijacked by mischief makers.

Report: Bad Politics Cause of Governance, Policy Failures in Africa Ugo Aliogo Research carried out at Harvard University has revealed that bad politics remains the root cause of governance and policy failures on the continent, which makes a case for training future public leaders to be disruptive change makers.

This was contained in a statement by the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG), which advocated for increased active citizen participation in governance.

The SPPG is a FixPolitics initiative that provides 33 weeks of thorough politics and policy training to cover all aspects of the leadership problem, with disruptive thinking as the requisite expertise needed to govern well.

Citing data from the Independent

National Electoral Commission (INEC), the SPPG identified causes of low voter turnout in Nigeria's 2023 general election through a rigorous scientific method of data collection and research analysis.

The statement also noted that despite widespread enthusiasm, with over 10 million newly registered voters out of the total 93 million registered voters in the election, a meagre 27 per cent voter turnout was recorded post-elections, adding that this makes it the lowest voter turnout in Nigeria’s election history in 44 years.

The statement further explained that the SPPG training culminates in a capstone project as part of a community of practice (CoP) for the Certificate in Public Leadership and Policy (CPLP).

It noted that the values, knowledge, and skills help graduates develop a new model of value-based political leadership with the required competency, capacity, and character to help transform governance at all African levels.

Co-Lead of the CPG-1 Capstone Group Research Development Committee, Evelyn Dan Epelle, was quoted to have said: "This research was enlightening because it helped illuminate the root causes of low voter turnout, like disillusionment, socioeconomic strain, poor electoral infrastructure governance, and voter suppression.

"A key insight is that the low participation of citizens in politics and governance in Nigeria is not necessarily low enthusiasm. Nigerian citizens are more than willing to hold

their leaders accountable.

"They need to learn how, and that’s what our capstone project presents, a research methodology for actively participating in governance.”

The statement espoused that Citizens’ Participation in Governance referred to the active involvement of citizens in the decision-making process and implementation of policies and programs that affect their lives and the overall development of their society.

On his part, the Group Co-Lead, Dr. Samson Abanni said: "Active citizens' participation in governance is the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy as it makes for accountability, transparency, and inclusiveness. We believe that the voter turnout of 28 percent merited investigation and that no sound conclusion should be reached without data."

35

THURSDAY, ͹͸˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

COASTAL-EROSION RAVAGED ODIOAMA COMMUNITY IN BRASS...

L-R: Caretaker Committee chairman, Brass Local Government Area, Hanson Karika, Speaker, Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere, Governor Douye Diri and Bayelsa Stare Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Esau Andrew, during the Bayelsa governor’s visit to coastal-erosion ravaged Odioama community in Brass Local Government Area ... yesterday

Imasuen: El-Rufai’s Efforts to End Southern Kaduna Killings, Unpatriotic Utterances Stalled His Confirmation Presidency ignored red flags, senate handicapped, says senator Emameh Gabriel in Abuja The Senator representing Edo South Senatorial District, Neda Imasuen of theLabour Party, has said one of the reasons a former governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, was not confirmed as a minister was his poor efforts at ending killings in Southern Kaduna and some of his recent unpatriotic utterances.

He, however, faulted the presidency's handling of background checks of ministerial nominees before they were sent to the Senate for confirmation.

Neda, who stated this yesterday at an interactive session with the Association of Edo State Journalists in his office at the National Assembly complex, Abuja, said if the presidency had done a diligent work before hand, the embarrassment witnessed during the ministerial confirmation would not have surfaced.

The Senate, on Monday, withheld the confirmation of Malam Nasir El-Rufai, Stella Okotete, and Senator Abubakar Danladi over security screening. But confirmed the appointment of 45 other nominees sent to it by President Bola Tinubu for screening.

El-Rufai is the immediate past governor of Kaduna State; Okotete, from Delta State, is Executive Director, Business Development,

Nigerian Export-Import Bank; while Danladi was deputy governor and later governor of Taraba State.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, said the three nominees, who were not confirmed, had to undergo security screening from relevant security agencies before their appointments would be confirmed.

But the Senator explained that all the drama would not have arisen because, "there are steps towards the final announcement of who becomes a minister."

He said: "The first step starts with the president, who has the prerogative to nominate a candidate.

So, the first step of screening starts from that very level. And the president has all he needs to screen any candidate. The EFCC is under him, the Police is under him, all the necessary tools he needs to screen them are under him. We don't have that at the National Assembly.

"So at the point the president looks at an individual and nominates that individual, the screening process start at that level. He should go through these agencies first of all, who should go back to him and said this is what is it and for this reason, we cannot recommend this person for appointment. They missed it at that point."

Neda explained that the Senate was handicapped and had no

knowledge of the allegations leveled against some of the nominees apart from El-Rufai, who was known to have performed credibly well as a minister of the FCT, but at the same time has questions to answer about his efforts to end the killings in Southern Kaduna and some unpatriotic utterances he allegedly used in some viral videos published online.

According to him, all they had in their possession was the CVs of

the nominees. He said there was no way the Senate could have known all about the nominees neither did the Senate have his WAEC before it to clear allegations against persons with questionable credentials.

"That ought to have been done at different levels before it came to us.

I think we should take that again and say that before the president nominates, perhaps, it should come with the necessary clearances for us

The South-South Zonal Organising Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Dr. Blessing Agbomhere, has cautioned Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, against blaming the federal government for what he termed the glaring infrastructure decay in the state.

A statement recently signed by the Special Adviser on Media Projects to the Governor, Crusoe Osagie, had accused the federal government of being responsible for the deplorable state of federal roads in the state. It had also blamed the current massive suffering faced by the people as a result of the removal of petrol subsidy which led to the skyrocketing of the price of

the essential commodity on President Bola Tinubu's policies.

However, Agbomhere in a statement he personally signed yesterday, accused the governor of finding a convenient way of putting the blame of his alleged failure on the less than three months old Tinubu’s administration.

He said Tinubu only assumed office with the road map of removing the burdensome fuel subsidy which had become a huge drain on the meagre revenue of the federal government.

Agbomhere, alleged that the Edo State Governor had nothing to show in terms of achievement in his over seven years in office but rather flaunting the landmark developmental strides of his predecessor, Adams

He said if those had come earlier, the senate would have been in a better position to decide whether they would be cleared or not.

"The president would have been advised on what occurs in the Senate. And it's left to him to say based on some of the questions and some the answers that were given, I will still put you forward or I will withdraw your nomination, because he has the prerogative to nominate.

Catholic Bishops Demand End to Sit-at-Home Orders, Says it Hurts Economy, Culture, Health Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia Catholic Bishops yesterday, demanded an end to the "indiscriminate sit-at-home orders" in the south-east zone, saying that it has been damaging "our local economies, culture and mental health of our people."

The Bishops under the Owerri Ecclesiastical Province made the call in a communique issued at the end of their meeting at Umuahia Diocesan Secretariat, after they had "prayerfully deliberated on a number of issues of great concern to our people."

"We want to repeat this appeal again with more urgency," the Bishops cried out.

A fringe group within the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have continued to perpetuate and enforce the controversial Sit-at-Home orders frequently issued by the Finlandbased self-styled Prime Minister of Biafra, Simon Ekpa.

But the high ranking Catholic clerics vehemently denounced the sit-at-home form of protest in the South East, noting that it has "so far disrupted lives, paralysing economic, educational and commercial activities".

Don't Blame Edo Infrastructure Decay on Tinubu, APC Tells Obaseki Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

to also review, because if we had those clearances there, we are in the better position to say yes, this person has been cleared.

"One of the nominees, who was allegedly barred for ten years said he has gone to the Supreme Court and the Supreme Court has cleared him. That is what he said. But we don't have the Supreme Court in front of us. We don't even know all that facts until people started asking those questions," he explained.

Oshiomhole, making it look like it was his administration's project.

Part of the statement read, "Despite taking over office in 2008, when the state's monthly revenue dropped to N1.6 billion due to the world economic crisis while IGR was N30 million bringing the total to N1.9 billion, Oshiomhole's administration started and completed several road projects including an ultra modern state of the art Specialist Hospital."

He challenged Obaseki to show to the world what impact he has been able to achieve, "other than the usual promises of Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) which his government has been notorious for signing with nothing to show for it."

Agbomhere called on Obaseki

to desist from inciting the people of Edo State against the Tinubu's administration.

He said, "Tinubu has the key to transform the Nigerian economy," and urged Nigerians to be patient as the process would soon kick off with the screening and swearing in of cabinet ministers which is expected in the days ahead.

He added that Tinubu needed a lot of encouragement, saying the president was poised to surpass the feat achieved by legendary leaders such as Lee Kuan Yew, Mahatma Ghandhi and Nelson Mandela.

The APC South-South Zonal Organising Secretary said never in the history of Nigeria has there been so much hope for a better country as there is at the moment.

The communique, which was read at the closing mass by the Bishop of Umuahia, Most Rev. Michael Ukpong, was signed by the Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, who is the Chairman and Bishop of Aba, Most Rev. Augustine Echeman, as Secretary.

Other Bishops in attendance include Most Rev. Solomon Amatu of Okigwe Diocese, Most Rev. Augustine Ukwuoma, Orlu, and the Archbishop Emeritus of Owerri Metropolitan, Most Rev. Anthony Obinna.

The Bishops lamented that the South East which "is extolled as the commercial hub of the nation is now bleeding from self-inflicted injuries as "traders in the region today are compelled to stay at home on Mondays, usually the busiest day of the week and the most productive for some."

"Events like traditional weddings, new yam festivals, funerals, Christmas and Easter celebrations, when our brothers and sisters in the Diaspora usually return home to be with their loved ones, are now being boycotted with people prioritising their security," it added.

In the communique entitled "Moving Beyond the Present Precipice" the Catholic Bishops in the Owerri Ecclesiastical Province decried the present situation of things in the country, pointing out that it has been "a rough year so far for our people."

According to them, the people's hope for a new lease of life, following the transition to a new democratic dispensation, has been dashed with

hasty and uncouth policies of government.

"Over the last couple of months, Nigerians have continued to battle poverty, misery, high cost of living, and inflationary pressures exacerbated by the ripple effects of government policies.

"Nigerians had not fully recovered from the shocks of the controversial Naira redesign policy that crippled businesses that made life and access to one's own funds so difficult for many, when the subsidy on petroleum came into effect," the communique said.

Though the Bishops noted that the government policies, including the unification of the foreign exchange market, might have been made with good intentions, "their sudden and poor implementation has unleashed so much hardships on the people."

Despite the past and present disheartening events, experiences and challenges confronting Nigerians, the Catholic Bishops encouraged people not to give in to despair.

They urged Nigerians to build hope and sustain the new wave of political awakening that manifested during the 2023 general election during which patriotic Nigerians across ethnic and religious lines collectively demanded, "a better Nigeria for all of us."

"As your spiritual leaders, we still call upon all the good-willed and patriotic citizens of Nigeria to continue to work for the common good of all Nigerians on that same note of equity, justice and peace," the Bishops said.

36

THURSDAY, ͹͸˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

2023 EDITION OF ELOY BUSINESS SHOWER...

L-R: Founder Shecluded, Ifeoma Uddoh; CEO Owoafara, Tale Alimi; Founder ELOY Awards Foundation, Dr Tewa Onasanya; Founder Midridge International, Biola Adediran; Founder YD Company, Dr Yetty Ogunnubi; Segmentation & Value Proposition Manager, First Bank, Ididun Adedewe and Head, Personal Banking, First Bank, Ikem Nwachukwu at the 2023 Edition of “ELOY Business Shower” held in Lagos recently

Atiku: Tinubu Has Something to Hide on Chicago State University Release your credentials now if…, Frank challenges president Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democracy Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, in his quest to unravel the controversy around the educational qualifications of President Bola Tinubu, has said he was puzzled by Tinubu’s “vigorous opposition” to a request asking the Chicago State University to make open disclosure about the matter.

Also, a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has called on Tinubu to allow the Chicago State University release his academic records to a court in Nigeria if he had nothing to hide.

Atiku’s lawyer, Liu Angela, said she had sent an email to Tinubu's lawyers asking for their cooperation in asking the Chicago State University about documents that

were already in the public domain, which have been submitted in proceeding in the Nigerian court.

The email, which was sent on August 3, 2023 was requesting, “to learn CSU’s position on whether, how, and when they were provided to other Nigerian litigants, and CSU’s position on the authenticity of the documents.”

According to Ms Angela, “ Mr. Tinubu should have been keen to clear up any inconsistencies in his academic achievements and set the records straight by allowing the expedition of the legal process.

“If there is an explanation for the discrepancies we have identified, we would think that Mr Tinubu would be eager to provide it. If you would like to provide an explanation to us, we are happy to consider it.

That might preclude the need for, or at least expedite the deposition,” the lawyer said.

Atiku has thus, through his lawyer, expressed a willingness to cooperate with Tinubu’s legal team to shut down controversies surrounding the president’s credentials.

But rather than extend the same cooperation to Atiku’s lawyer, the

team representing Tinubu has vehemently opposed all initiatives aimed to setting the records straight about Tinubu education claims at the Chicago State University.

On his part, Frank in a statement yesterday insisted that Tinubu, as a public servant, ought not to seek

A former National Vice Chairman, Northwest, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Salihu Lukman, has advised President Bola Tinubu to set annual performance targets for his ministers in order to ensure his ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda translates into tangible gains for Nigerians.

Lukman, in a statement yesterday, said for APC to emerge as a truly progressive party beyond bearing the name, Tinubu’s government must be dynamic, action-oriented and therefore competently able to improve on the quality of lives of Nigerians.

According to him, the performance review would help to keep Tinubu's appointees on their toes, or else, the president should expect failure.

Lukman added that APC must unambiguously guarantee social justice and equitable distribution of resources and opportunities both within itself and as a party in control of governments at several levels in the country.

“What this requires at these early stages in the life of the administration is that the government must be able to set clearly defined targets, which must be achieved within the next

four years.

"For instance, the government should define annual targets for all sectors and each mandate ministry led by the newly confirmed ministers should be given the responsibility to achieve them.

“Setting those targets and

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Members of the Movement for the Creation of Tiga and Gari states from Kano State met with the Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau, yesterday in Abuja, seeking National Assembly's support for their endeavours.

The movement, led by Senator Mas’ud El-Jibrin Doguwa, stressed the need for the creation of two

states from Kano State.

He said in the last 40 years, they have been advocating the splitting of Kano State given its size and population to fast-track its development.

“We want two more states to be created out of the present Kano State.

This will bring about much-needed development. In the last 40 years, we have been advocating the creation of two more states from Kano. We are

orienting all the newly elected and appointed APC representatives to apply themselves towards meeting them should not be taken for granted. In fact, once ministers are sworn in and no ministerial targets are given to them by the President, the seed of failure would have been

planted."

Lukman, therefore, stressed that the first task before Tinubu was ensuring that ministerial targets were given and putting in place stronger supervisory and regulatory framework both within government and as a party to ensure delivery.

NURTW Alleges Plot to Attack Its National Secretariat Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has raised the alarm over a plot by some persons and groups to stage a protest at the National Secretariat of the union located in Garki 2, Abuja.

The union said the plan was to infiltrate their ranks by wearing the union uniform and disguised as members to perpetrate their nefarious activities and attack the secretariat and some part of Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The union, which disclosed this yesterday in Abuja in a statement by its National President, Alhaji Tajudeen Ibikunle Baruwa, described

of information obtainable in that country.

Frank accused the United States of playing double standards where actions and requests that were taken seriously in their country become the reverse when it concerns an African country like Nigeria.

Kano Leaders Meet Barau, Seek Two Additional States

Lukman: Tinubu Should Set Annual Performance Targets for Ministers or Expect Failure Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

to stop his academic records from being made public in a law Court.

He also challenged the American government and its institutions to cause Tinubu’s certificates in Chicago State university to be released to a court in Nigeria in the spirit of reciprocity and freedom

the planned protest as a campaign of calumny against its leadership, aimed at causing confusion and fomenting trouble.

He said they have identified those sponsoring the protest and that they were not even members of the union but Lagos, Osun and Ondo States Park Management Committees.

"We have it on good authority that some disgruntled and unscrupulous elements have perfected a plan to mobilise some thugs and hoodlums from Lagos, who put on uniform of the Union as disguise to invade and stage a protest at our National Secretariat here in Abuja.

"I want to tell you that these people are not our members, they

just want to cause violence in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). We are using this medium to call on the security agencies to rise up to the occasion and prevent the breakdown of law and order.

"The union has remained peaceful over the years and we don't have any faction. We know those people that are sponsoring these groups and we are using this opportunity to tell them to steer clear of FCT in their own interest," the NURTW President said.

He therefore, called on the plotters to desist forthwith just as he called on all the security agencies to rise up to the occasion and prevent possible breakdown of law and order in the city.

not pushing for it to fight anybody but to attract development,” he said.

He urged the Deputy Senate President to support the project, commending him for the numerous projects across the three senatorial districts of Kano State.

"It was because of your performance and relationship with people that APC got the votes garnered during the last general election in Kano State. You are the pillar of APC in Kano State, whether you like it or not, you are the pillar.

"All emirates in Kano have benefitted immensely from the numerous projects you have attracted

to our state. We pray to Allah SWT to see you through in your tenure.

We are proud of you,” he said.

Barau assured his guests that the National Assembly would be just to all during the review of the 1999 Constitution.

Barau who chairs the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, said the 10th Assembly would give all groups advocating states creation equal opportunities to present their cases.

He commended the members of the movement for Tiga and Gari states for sustaining the tempo over the years.

Adeniyi: Illicit Importation Dangerous for Economy, Public Health

James Emejo in Abuja

The Acting Comptroller-General, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, yesterday said the service remained committed to ridding the country of illicit and harmful trade.

He said the harmful effects of illicit importation on the youths, particularly drugs, cannot be overemphasised.

He stressed that it poses significant challenge to public health and safety and put the social and economic development at risks.

Speaking while showcasing seizures of some items suspected to be Cannabis Sativa at Ogun II Area Command recently, he emphasised the recent efforts and unwavering commitment of officers in intercepting cannabis sativa within Zone A of customs.

Adeniyi, gave details of the seizures to include 14,015 parcels of Cannabis Sativa by officers of FOU Zone A, weighting 7,728 Kg,

and translating to a Duty Paid Value of NGN 618,240,000 discharged from a boat at the creeks around Ajah and Ijebu-ode area.

He added that three suspects and other items were handed over to NDLEA on August 2, 2023, and currently undergoing investigations.

In a statement issued by customs spokesman, Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada, Adeniyi was quoted to have said, "On Thursday, 3 August 2023, at about 0400hrs, a joint patrol team comprising of officers of Western Marine Command intercepted a wooden boat with 2 Yamaha outboard engines (40 Horsepower), each containing 103 sacks containing 8,240 loaves of substance suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, weighing 3,811KG at a DPV of NGN 32,193,000.

"On Monday 7 August 2023 at about 0315hrs, credible intelligence led to the Seizure of 2,940 parcels of Cannabis Sativa around Sokoto/ijoun road, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State."

37

THURSDAY, ͹͸˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

COUNCIL FOR THE REGULATION OF ENGINEERING...

L-R: Deputy Managing Director, Wema Bank, Mr. Wole Akinleye; Executive Director, Dantata and Sawoe Limited, Nasiru Dantata; and Regional Manager, Abuja Region 1, Wema Bank, Mr. Chioma Onuaguluchi, at the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria Assembly forum in Abuja ... recently

D I P LO M A CY B A C K O N TA B L E A S S A N U S I M E E T S N I G E R C O U P L E A D E R , T I N U B U military action in Niger.

Aliyu said they were invited by Tinubu based on their positions as clerics and they honoured the invitation.

He said, "Our visit also serves as working (official) visit. We discussed on important matters relating to our dear country and we gave our advice on good leadership. We discussed on subsidy removal and we gave our own advice on that, too, and we told him we wish he had had this consultation before subsidy removal so that its implementation would have been smooth, devoid of all this hardship.

"Regarding Niger issues, we told him our stand, which is dialogue.

Diplomacy is the best option, military intervention will not yield the desired outcome. We do not support military intervention, we are emphasising the use of diplomacy.

"When we intervened in Liberia, how did we get out of the mess?

Look at what is happening in Libya, we should try as much as we can to avoid that scenario. Niger has all the tendencies of becoming Libya if we are not careful."

Commenting on the assurance given to them by the president, Aliyu said, "We are on the same page. He is not insisting on military intervention, too. All peaceful means will be followed and exhausted."

Asked if they were worried that ECOWAS’ position might strain good brotherhood between Nigeria and Niger Republic, the cleric said, "Nigeria and Niger are just like two brothers. We share border, culture, family, languages and even religion.

Definitely, we have to tread with caution and solve the issue amicably."

Concerned Nigerien Politicians Write Tinubu on Sanctions

About 11 political stakeholders in Niger wrote to Tinubu, as ECOWAS Chairman, to lift the sanctions imposed on the country.

The politicians, in a two-page letter written in the French language, described the sanctions as unbearable, ineffective and inappropriate, saying they would have adverse effects on the Nigerien population.

They urged the ECOWAS chairman to explore the option of diplomacy to engage and resolve the issues in Niamey.

The 11 politicians that authored the letter – all members of the Ancien PM include Seinu Oumarrou – are Amadou Salifou, Mamane Oumarou, Cheffou Amadou, Ibrahim Asane Mayaki, Hama Amadou, Ousseni Tinni, Hamilton Algabid, Amadou Boubakar Cise, Ali Bajo Gamatie and Brigi Rafini.

The English translation of the letter read, "Current Chairman of the Conference of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Abuja, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"Excellency, Mr. President, following the military coup in Niger on July 26, 2023, the Conference of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held an extraordinary session on July 30, 2023 on the issue in Abuja, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"At the end of its work, the Conference of Presidents decided to impose extremely severe sanctions of all kinds on our country to compel the perpetrators of the coup to restore constitutional order and restore President Bazoum Mahamed in office.

"By their immediacy, their scale and their effects, these sanctions are unprecedented in the history of our common organisation and at the level of our continent. Indeed, they are from our point of view, unbearable, ineffective and inappropriate and will have unimaginable catastrophic consequences on Niger and, especially, on its hard-working populations, already hard-hit.

"Above all other plan, these sanctions cannot be based on our law community and even less under international law. We are even more concerned about the future of our country and its people, to the extent that these sanctions are accompanied by a threat of military intervention.

"This is why, faced with this imminent rise of perils for our country and for the sub-region, we, the signatories to this letter, ask you to lift the sanctions against the Nigerien people and to use diplomatic and political channels to find with the army, peaceful and constructive solutions to this serious crisis in our country.

"Please accept, Excellency Mr. President, the expression of our highest."

Catholic Bishops Warn against Libyan Experience

The Reunion of Episcopal Conferences of West Africa (RECOWA) warned about the consequences of military intervention in Niger Republic, saying the ECOWAS leadership must learn from Libya’s tragic experience.

RECOWA, which comprises all Catholic cardinals, archbishops and bishops in West Africa, urged the ECOWAS leadership to avoid the use of force in the effort to restore the ousted democratic government in Niger.

RECOWA, which recalled that Libya’s example left disastrous consequences for people’s lives, dignity and future, expressed concerns in a two-page letter addressed to President of ECOWAS, Heads of State of ECOWAS, and the transitional authorities in Niger, dated August 7. It called for dialogue and reconciliation rather than belligerence and military response.

The letter, signed by President of RECOWA and Bishop of Agboville, Most Rev. Alexis Touabli Youlo, was sequel to the military coup that displaced the democratically

elected government of President Mohammed Bazoum in Niger Republic and the resolve of the ECOWAS Authority to deploy all means necessary, even the use of force, to restore the constitutional regime in Niger.

Despite a seven-day ultimatum issued to the military regime led by Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani to restore Niger's constitutional government, all other diplomatic measures taken

by ECOWAS, African Union (AU), European Union (EU), and the United Nations (UN) to resolve the Niger crisis have not brought about order and stability in the troubled country.

In its two-page letter, RECOWA canvassed pacifism rather than belligerence in the management of the crisis, and invited every actor within and outside the sub-region to show restraint, discernment, and responsibility.

The letter read, "We, the Cardinals, Archbishops and Bishops of the Reunion of Episcopal Conferences of West Africa, after consultations, are deeply concerned by the subregional tension linked to the political situation in Niger. Faced with the events currently unfolding in the sub-region, the lives of the people of West Africa are at stake.

"Keeping as our central vision, the integrity of the people and emphasising respect for human dignity and a high sense of accountability to mankind, history and God the Creator, we affirm that nothing can justify the creation or facilitation of an environment that is destructive to our people."

The letter observed that no individual, national, regional, geopolitical or denominational interest or project should take precedence over the preservation of life, human dignity and the wellbeing of the future generations in West Africa and beyond.

They contended, "We, your pastors, are convinced, and the history of people teaches us that violence does not solve any problem, not even the one that triggered it. We affirm that any military intervention in Niger at this time would contemplate the situation of the people of Niger and the sub-region more than it would provide solutions.

"Terrorism already has a macabre toll of widows, orphans, displaced persons, the hungry, the maimed and so on. People are not expecting the regional, African and other institutions to add to this toll."

In retrospect, the bishops cited the military intervention in Libya by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation in 2011, describing the military intervention as a tragic example of the disastrous consequences for people’s lives, dignity and future.

The Catholic bishops of West Africa stated, "We cannot remain silent in the face of such situations and must learn lessons to ensure that such events do not happen again, particularly with Niger as a potential epicentre of a similar crisis. As a Bishops' conference, our mission is intimately linked to

the promotion of reconciliation and peace.”

They also challenged all men, women, national, sub-regional and international organisations to play a positive role in easing tensions and promoting lasting peace, noting that the people of the region "love and accept each other and are constantly seeking to improve their coexistence”.

The bishops called on the African Union and ECOWAS to show responsibility before history and revisit their respective missions, saying at this critical and delicate time, it is essential that the organisations play an active role in the search for peaceful and lasting solutions, putting the interests of the people and respect for their dignity first.

They called on the sub-regional leaders to respond decisively to this call for restraint, discernment and responsibility, and work together to build a future of peace and prosperity for the West African region and Africa, as a whole.

CSOs Drag Tinubu, ECOWAS Leaders to Court

A team of concerned Nigerian citizens instituted a court action at the ECOWAS Court against the use of military action to resolve the Nigerien coup crisis.

In a suit filed on their behalf by Dr. Kayode Ajulo, the civil groups, led by Egalitarian and Justice Society, said all African Union member states, in pursuit of the purposes stated in Article II, solemnly affirmed and declared their adherence to the following principles as contained in Article 3.

The principles, according to the suit, included, "The sovereign equality of all member states; non-interference in the internal affairs of states; respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each state and for its inalienable right to independent existence; "Peaceful settlement of disputes by negotiation, mediation, conciliation or arbitration; and unreserved condemnation, in all its forms, of political assassination as well as of subversive activities on the part of neighbouring states or any other states."

Ajulo also said, Article 2 subsections 3 and 4 provide, “3. All members shall settle their international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace and security, and justice, are not endangered.

"All members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the purposes of the United Nations.”

The civil society group said these provisions were critical principles guiding acts of member states, adding, "Any military act on Niger is, therefore, a direct breach of these provisions of the African Union and United Nations."

NGE Calls for Strategic Engagement, Diplomacy

Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) advised President Bola Tinubu, in his capacity as Chairman of ECOWAS, to persuade the sub-regional body to adopt diplomatic channels in handling issues arising from the seizure of power by the military in Niger Republic.

Although the professional body of editors in Nigeria regarded military intervention as an aberration, it, nevertheless, urged ECOWAS to employ “strategic engagement and diplomacy” in ensuring that democratic structures were restored in Niger.

NGE also observed that the hike in the pump price of petrol had taken its toll on Nigerians, who had faced hard times due to the astronomical rise in transportation costs, food items, and other goods.

These were contained in a communique by signed by NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Dr Iyobosa Uwugiaren, at the end of the editors’ Standing Committee Meeting in Lagos, during the week.

While reminding democratically elected governments of the need to ensure good governance and respect for the rule of law, the Guild stated that “democratic government remains the best option in nation states”.

The editors advised the federal and state governments to fulfil their promises to provide palliatives to the people to ease their pains in the face of the current hardship, while commending some states that were already implementing some of their promises.

On internal security, the editors advised government at all levels to provide the Nigeria Police with the necessary assistance to discharge their constitutional responsibilities.

Noting the current efforts by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Solomon Arase-led Police Service Commission to reposition the police for effective service delivery, NGE advised the authorities to sustain the tempo.

It said, “In a progressively interrelated and complex world, it has become obvious that security and development are inseparably linked, especially in a developing country like Nigeria. Security is crucial to economic growth and development, and the Nigeria Police have a role to play in this regard.”

The editors commended the Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide SanwoOlu, for partnering the professional body in the Lateef Jakande Maiden Annual Memorial Lecture, recently instituted.

Don't Go to War with Niger, Southern, Middle Belt Leaders Plead

Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) pleaded with Tinubu to discard the idea of using military action to dislodge the Nigerien coupists.

SMBLF made the appeal in a statement by its leader, Chief Edwin Clark; Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo; and President-General, Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

Other signatories were President, Middle Belt Forum, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, and National Chairman, Pan-Niger Delta Forum, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien.

SMBLF condemned the military coup in Niger and the overthrow of the democratically elected government of President Mohamed Bazoum. It noted that the development occurred after many years of instability and the history of attempted and successful military coups.

The forum recalled that Bazoum was the first president to peacefully inherit power from another democratically elected president in the country.

It expressed concern that military governments had also taken power in neighbouring countries of Mali and Burkina Faso, stressing that the addition of Niger to the list of such a breach of national constitutions is uncomfortable and definitely cannot be allowed to stand.

However, SMBLF urged Tinubu, who is ECOWAS Chairman, to tread with caution while handling the delicate Nigerien issue.

Address Causes of Coups, Falana Tells ECOWAS Leaders

Human rights activist and lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, called on the ECOWAS leaders to address the real causes of coups in the sub-region.

Falana, in a statement, drew the attention of the leaders to the main causes of unconstitutional change of government and how to arrest the ugly development.

According to him, tenures of elected presidents should be limited to two terms in office, while sanctions should be imposed on democratically elected presidents, who engaged in amendment of the national constitutions to extend their tenures beyond two terms.

The lawyer also identified disobedience of court orders by ECOWAS leaders as reason for change of governments in West Africa, adding that African leaders are in contempt of the rule of law and human rights.

Falana said, “Judgements of domestic and regional courts are disobeyed without any repercussion.”

He stated that it had been confirmed that another principal cause of violent change of governments in West Africa was the reckless exploitation of the natural resources of the member states of the ECOWAS by former colonial regimes and their allies.

He added that such exploitation was compounded by the control of the national economies by the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Continues online

THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 2023 ˾ T H I S D AY

38

NEWS

IMPROVED TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM ON THEIR MINDS…

L-R: Legal Adviser, Abuja Urban Mass Transport Company Limited (AUMTCO), Mr. Albert Ukah; Head, Corporate Services, AUMTCO, Mr. Tunde Akintola; Fleet Manager, AUMTCO, Mr. Emmanuel Odeke Ameh; Head, Admin, Human Resource & Capital Development, AUMTCO, Mrs. Ifeoma Anthonia Ihenakwe; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, AUMTCO, Mr. Najeeb Mahmoud Abdussalam; Managing Director, Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA),Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo; Head, Planning, AUMTCO, Mr. Mohammed Yakubu; Head, Finance & Accounts, AUMTCO, Mr. Sunday Onwodi, during a visit by the AUMTCO executives to LAMATA office in Lagos…recently

Radda, Security Operatives Raid Criminals’Enclaves in Katsina Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has led a team of security operatives to raid criminals’ enclaves in the Katsina metropolis as part of his government’s efforts in taming security challenges in the state.

Radda, in a statement issued to journalists yesterday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ibrahim Kaula

Mohammed, led the security team for the operation last Tuesday night.

The operation, according to the statement, took place between 10 and 11:30 p.m. in criminals’ hideouts at Sabuwar Unguwa, Sharar Pipe, Dan Hako, Filin Polo, Kofar Guga, and Tudun Matawalle communities in the Katsina metropolis.

The statement read: “The criminals in recent months have

Dino Melaye: Why PDP ‘ll Win Kogi Guber Election

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The Kogi State Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dino Melaye, has said the party remains the party to beat in the upcoming election because of the level of devastation being left behind by the outgoing All Progressives Congress(APC) administration.

He said this after a meeting of Kogi PDP stakeholders from the three Senatorial zones of the state, with the members of the National Working Committee at

the party‘s national secretariat, in Abuja yesterday.

Melaye said: “PDP is going to win the election in Kogi State because we have never had it so bad in the history of Kogi State.

Our people were impoverished, salaries have not been paid, pensions have not been paid, gratuity has not been paid, the health sector is non-existent, in fact, all the General Hospitals in the state are mere consulting clinics.

“Education has gone moribund, this is what the PDP is coming to ameliorate and palate.”

Dickerman Appointed CEO of Pinnacle Oil & Gas Limited Pinnacle Oil & Gas Limited has announced the appointment of Robert Dickerman as chief executive officer (CEO) of the company.

The appointment was made in Kano on Tuesday, during the company’s Board meeting.

In a statement issued by the Chairman of the company, His Royal Highness Alhaji Nasir Ado Bayero, on behalf of the Board of Directors, he said that the appointment was based on Dickerman’s experience and stellar performance during his tenure as chief operating officer (COO) and subsequently as managing director and acting CEO. Before his current appointment,

Dickerman had a robust career as a senior energy executive with more than 30 years’ experience. He holds a master’s degree in Business Administration from the Graduate School of Management at University of Chicago and a B.Sc degree from Union College. His expertise spans strategy, development, operations, performance management and corporate governance.

Dickerman is a former MD/ CEO of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company and held leadership positions as COO of Marubeni Power and CEO of Sempra Energy Solutions and Edison Source of Edison International.

been terrorising residents of the aforementioned areas and other parts of the Katsina metropolis.

The hooligans specialised in

Two persons have been confirmed dead while five persons injured after six vehicles were involved in an accident on Eko bridge inward Alaka, Surulere, Lagos.

According to reports, the vehicles involved in the fatal accident include a fully loaded truck (T150 IL), Lexus Jeep (LSP 795 EW), Toyota Camry (AKD 606 HH), Toyota (LND 217 GX), Mini- bus (FKJ 77 YG and (LSR 952 HZ).

In a press statement by the Director, Public Affairs and

Enlightenment Department, Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA), Adebayo Taofiq, he said the victims include a male and another female.

According to him, the fatal accident involved six private vehicles, including a fully loaded ‘MAC’ truck with registration no T-1501 LA. “Preliminary investigation showed that the loaded ‘MAC’ truck while on top speed collided with five other private vehicles, including a commercial mini bus (Korope) as a result of brake failure.”

Governor Radda, in his avowed commitment to rid the state of criminal elements, once again dished out commands to operatives

of the police to deal ‘mercilessly’ with miscreants breaching peace and public order across Katsina State.”

House Committee Accuses IPPIS of Dodging Probe, Summons AGF, Others JulietAkojeinAbuja The House of Representatives’s Ad hoc Committee probing Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Parastatals and Tertiary Institutions over alleged employment racketeering and mismanagement of the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS) yesterday has

accused the IPPIS of dodging the investigation.

The committee also summoned the Director of the IPPIS, as well as the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF) to unfailingly appear today(Thursday).

The lawmakers also summoned the Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON) as well as one Mr Haruna Kolo, an ex-staff of

the Federal Character Commision (FCC), who had admitted to collecting money for employment on behalf of the FCC Chairman, Muheeba Dankaka.

Consequently, the Committee revealed that Kolo is presently working with AMCON. Kolo had appeared before the committee on Monday when he made the allegation that he was collecting

money on behalf of the Dankaka.

He has,however, failed to honour the invitation of the committee to appear in subsequent hearings on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The Chairman of the committee Yusuf Gagdi, said Kolo must substantiate his allegations and that all those invited must all appear before the committee or face sanctions as provided by the law.

Adeleke Calls for Establishment of Regional Security Task Force to Tackle Criminality Yinka Kolawole inOsogbo

Governor Ademola Adeleke has called for the establishment of a trans - regional security taskforce to curtail growing cross border criminality just as the General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major

General Valentine Okoro lauded the Osun state Governor for creating a safe and secure environment for residents to live and conduct lawful businesses.

The GOC 2 Division of the Nigerian Army gave the commendation when he paid a courtesy call on the governor in

the office.

Okoro led members of his team among whom were the Commanders of Engineering Construction Command Ede, among others to pay a working visit to the Governor.

The GOC said he was in Osun as part of efforts to familiarise himself

with the operational procedures in states under his command.

According to him, he found that Osun State is one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria and therefore, commended the governor for his huge investment in securing lives and property of the people.

Amotekun Arrests 7,000, Prosecutes 1,500 Criminals in Ondo of its creation.

Adeleye, who doubles as of Amotekun Commanders in

Fidelis David in Akure

The Ondo State Commander of Western Nigeria Security Network (WNSN), codenamed Amotekun, Mr Adetunji Adeleye, has disclosed that it has arrested no fewer than 7,000 criminals across the state within the last three and half years

The corps commander said out of the 7,000 arrested, about 1,500 of them have been charged to court and it has secured judgement of many of them while the crisis of farmers/herders clashes has reduced by over 95 percent in the last two years.

the Special Adviser (Security Matters) to the state governor, disclosed this during an interactive session organised by the state Correspondent Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), tagged: “The Platform”.

The Chairman of the Council

South-West recalled that the corps, which was founded on January 9, 2020 in Ibadan, Oyo State, as the first regional security outfit, initiated by the governors of the geopolitical zone has recorded tremendous success in checkmating criminal activities in the region.

Ogun: Tribunal Dismisses PDP’s Application to Stand Down Proceeding James Sowole in Abeokuta

The Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, has dismissed the application filed by the counsel to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Gordy Uche, SAN, seeking a

stand down after witnesses presented damning evidences against petitioners.

Four witnesses, Oyegunle Suleiman, from Sagamu, Mr. Ifetayo Ifede, from Ikenne and Adelani Yemi, from Abeokuta North, including an official of Independent National

Electoral Commission (INEC) Mr. Omotilewa, had appeared before the panel to give evidences backed up by documents against PDP, alleging electoral infraction, ranging from manipulation, disruption of electoral process, as well as inducement through the preloaded ATM cards with

inscription of Ladi Adebutu’s late mother.

All the witnesses convincingly proved and defended their statements with appropriate documents tendered to the tribunal and subsequently adopted and marked as exhibits.

Gombe Targets Recruitment of Additional 200 Health Personnel

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

State Governor, Alhaji Two Dead, Five Injured in Gombe Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has the provision of quality and Lagos Multiple Accidents said affordable health care services Sunday Ehigiator

snatching phones and extorting property of residents in various parts of Katsina city.

“During their nocturnal raid,

to the people sits at the heart of his administration’s resolve towards attaining the Universal

Health Coverage.

The Governor stated this yesterday when he granted audience to National Officials of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria PSN led by its President Professor Cyril Usifor, who are in the state to perfect arrangements for their forthcoming National

Conference schedule to in Gombe.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, Governor Yahaya intimated his guests that his administration has since employed 260 health workers among them pharmacists, adding that plans

are underway to recruit another 200 to shore up manpower in the soon to be completed hospitals in Kaltungo Kumo and Bajoga.

He explained that government has provided at least one functional health center in each of the 114 political wards of the state.

Kogi Guber: CAN, Igbo Community Back Ododo

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kogi State Chapter has thrown its support behind the candidate of the All Progressives Congress(APC), Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.

The association was said to have made the pledge during a visit to the leadership by the APC

governorship candidate, saying it is time to reward the good gesture of Governor Yahaya Bello.

Speaking on behalf of the Christian body in Kogi State, the Chairman of the CAN, His Eminence Special Apostle Emmanuel Adebayo claimed no governor in the history of Kogi

State has done what Governor Yahaya Bello has done for Christians, hence, the resolve to support the candidate of the APC. He said: “Governor Yahaya Bello has done what no Governor had ever done for the Christians of Kogi State. He has been a great support to the Christian body

in the state and has created an environment for peaceful worship and religious harmony.

“He has also built a magnificent Chapel for Christian worship inside the Government House.

For a Muslim to do such for the Christians, he deserves our prayers and support.

39

THURSDAY, ͹͸˜ ͺ͸ͺͻ ˾ T H I S D AY

THURSDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Harry Maguire Completes West Ham United Switch TRANSFER NEWS West Ham United have agreed deals for Manchester United's Harry Maguire and Southampton's James Ward-Prowse worth about £60m in total.

Each deal is thought to be worth in the region of £30m.

Maguire, 30, struggled for firstteam opportunities at Old Trafford last season and has been stripped of the captaincythis season.

He is understood to be keen on the move with personal terms yet to be agreed but not expected

to be a problem.

Maguire joined United in August 2019 for a world record £80mfor a defender.

West Ham have been trying to sign Ward-Prowse for much of the summer but Southampton, who were relegated to the Championship last season, had rejected their advances until this point.

However, it has appeared inevitable that Southampton would lose their captain and that now seems set to happen.

Sokoto Utd First to Confirm Status in NNL as Playoffs End Today

Harry Maguire...completes West Ham switch from Man Utd

Over 100 Athletes Set for Sport Entertainment Taekwondo Event in Abuja Kunle Adewale The Chika Chukwumerije Sports Foundation (CCSF) will be organising the 6th edition of the CCSF Invitational Taekwondo Open on Saturday, August 12, at the Indoor Basketball Hall of the M.K.O Abiola National Stadium Abuja.

100 youth athletes, comprising 64 males and 36 females, from six Abuja based taekwondo clubs are confirmed for the event.

The FCT Taekwondo Association sanctioned event will deploy an

electronic display scoring system while the competitors will compete in a round robin format to ensure participants get a lot of exposure and experience.

To engage spectators, organizers plan many surrounding activities including a free morning aerobic fitness class, setting up fun table tennis and video games areas and a bouncing castle for children. Vendors have also been engaged to provide food and drinks to spectators, and DJs will liven the atmosphere with music all day.

To cap off the day, an outdoor

dance-off competition will help thrill FCT residents to a sports entertainment themed event.

The Beijing 2008 Olympic medalist and CCSF founder, highlighted the importance of fusing entertainment with sports to the development of grassroots sports in Nigeria.

“We want to organize an event that anybody would want to come to on a Saturday morning in a summer holiday. The public longs for and deserve these kinds of programs regularly and sports has always been perfectly poised to satisfy this demand, while simultaneously

British Council Trains 948 Nigerian Coaches, Referees in 13 Years Sunday Ehigiator The British Council has revealed that it has trained no fewer than 948 Nigerians in professional football coaching and refereeing program it instituted 13 years ago through a project tagged ‘Premier Skill’ instituted in partnership with the English Premier League It made this disclosure at the official ‘Premier Skills Closeout Event’ held recently in Lagos by the council to officially divest the program and hand it over to an independent alumni body to oversee the programme’s implementation in Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Country Director of the British Council, Nigeria, Chikedi Onyemerela, said the project had trained over 948 coaches and referees and reached over 22,000 young footballers, including women and children.

In his opening address, Onyemerela said the British Council had partnered civil society organisations, government ministries, agencies and

institutions in Nigeria to deliver high-quality programmes focused on strengthening public institutions, facilitating dialogue and highlighting key issues facing communities across the country.

“During the last 13 years of the project delivery in Lagos and Kano States, we successfully trained over 948 coaches and referees.

“These coaches and referees are now agents of change in their respective communities and are promoting inclusivity and community cohesion through the methodology of Premier Skills.”

Also speaking, the Head, of Cultural Engagement Marketing, Sub-Saharan Africa of the council, Edemekong Uyoh, said the idea behind the initiative was to instil life skills in coach educators and leverage the power of football as a tool for change, child protection and to help young people create different platforms where they can address different issues.

According to her, “The programme has run for 13 years. In 13 years,

we have had a chance to reach over 20,000 young people, particularly knowing that we have only been focused on two key states, Lagos and Kano state.

“Beyond that, we have been able to train over 900 coaches across these two states and succeeded in getting about 21 coaches accredited such that they can also train other coaches in Nigeria.”

developing sports at the grassroots.”

Nigeria’s National Captain to the London 2012 Olympics and former African Champion promised a well-organized event that would be memorable for both competitors and spectators.

“We want young athletes to be properly exposed, so it is important for officiating to be fair and transparent and operations to run without hitches. We also want our guests who come to the event to have a great time experiencing various things.”

Chukwumerije, who took a sabbatical after successfully guiding Nigeria’s second ever female Taekwondo Olympian, Elizabeth Anyanacho, to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics explained that the current target of his foundation.

“We have suspended our high-performance project after its successful 6-year run that cumulated in producing an Olympian, African Medalist and several National champions. My foundation will now focus on hosting sports entertainment events and using proceeds and donations to kickstart an orphanage project, which seeks to empower orphans through sports and computer skills acquisition. We will use our sports entertainment events to highlight our new focus”

Sokoto United Football Club from the Northern Conference of the Nigeria National League, can confirm have sealed their status in the Nigeria National League (NNL).

The Caliphate Seat side did this in grand style after two victories in the ongoing Kano 2023 NNL relegation playoff holding at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata Stadium, Kano.

The coach Alhassan Mohammed men are safe with six unassailable points.

In a five goal thriller on match day one, they defeated FWC Champions 3-2 for their first maximum points and sealed up 2-1 over ABS in a hard fought match.

They would be "Playing for formality" according to Coach Alhassan Mohammed against Adamawa United at the Kano Pillars Stadium, Sabon Gari in the last group games which will be played simultaneously this afternoon same time ABS FC of Ilorin will be battling FWC Champions at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata .

20 LGAs to Participate as Ohaneze, St. Eve Football Tourney Begins Mary Nnah Several young persons within the age bracket of 15-17 years would be engaged in a football tournament.

The teams picked are across the 20 local government areas of Lagos State.

The football tournament is billed to commence today after the official launch of the August 20th Ohaneze Ndigbo/St Eve maiden edition of the football tournament.

Disclosing this during a press briefing, held in Surulere-Lagos State, the President of the Lagos State chapter, Chief Sunday Ossai called for viable football teams to take advantage of the initiative and embrace it.

Ossai advised the youths for their

Omo-Agege Emerges Interim President of AFBC The Vice President of the African Boxing Confederation (AFBC), Hon. Azania Omo-Agege Siena, has emerged as the interim president of the African Boxing body.

Omo-Agege whose rising profile in continental and global boxing knows no bounds, replaced the ousted president of AFBC, Bertrand Mendouga, 62, from Cameroon who was among others, accused of high-handedness and lack of foresight in running the affairs of the African body..

Mendouga was forced out of office on 6 August, 2023, in front of IBA President, Umar Kremlev during the AFBC's Exco meeting in Yaounde, Cameroon.

This follows the tension at the Cameroon Boxing Federation (FECABOXE) which forced the postponement of the African Boxing Championship in Yaounde that ended yesterday.

The unholy shift in date forced a number of eligible countries who had

Aside Sokoto United who have punched their tickets to remain in NNL with one match left, Adamawa United on two points, ABS FC 1 point and FWC Champions 1 point have chances of clinching the second slot to stay put in the most important league.

In the Southern Conference, the identity of the teams to stay or drop to the 3rd tier Nation-Wide League One (NLO) will be clearly know today.

Ikorodu City, Henserd, Smart City and Edel FC all have equal Chances of picking any of the two tickets to stay in NNL. Each of the teams have won a game each. Leaders on goals difference of +2 , Ikorodu City will confront Edel FC who have minus two at the Sani Abacha Stadium, 3:30Pm, while Smart City who have minus one will challenge in the final showdown with Henserd who are 2nd on the log with plus one ,same time at the Kano Pillars Stadium,Sabon Gari.

The battle line is drawn, serious war in both centers.

earlier bought airline tickets for the previous date of the championship but were unable to use it after the postponement, not to participate.

Thus loosing their money and Mendouga adamantly refused to refund their money..

It was also revealed that the ousted AFBC president did a lot of damage to Fecaboxe which the Cameroonian Government is investigating and has appointed a Nomalization Committee to reshape things.

massive involvement in sporting activities, and supporters in the competition would add glamour to the tournament.

“Let me reiterate the fact that Hon. Paul Onuora is sponsoring this competition to promote the development of football at the grassroots and to help discover young talents in Lagos State. We also believe that through sporting activities, our youths can be positively engaged.”

“Our mission is to rally our community to raise awareness and to enlighten our people about the significance of their contributions.

We seek to bridge the gap between the people and the government”, he said.

He noted further that the football league encompassing 20 local governments is not just a sports event but a manifestation of the group’s commitment to promoting community engagement and harmony.

The sponsor of the event, Hon. Paul Onuora said the inaugural soccer championship aimed to build on the power of sports as a tool for peace among Nigeria.

Managing Director of St Eve, Mrs Evelyn Okereke said the competition aimed to enlighten and foster unity as well as mentor the children, encourage their youthful dreams as well as instil in them the mindset that anything is possible through football.

Thursday, August 10, 2023

TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

Price: N250

MISSILE

Haruna Kolo to Farida Dankaka

“Whenever there was new employment, she signs, gives to me and I take it to the Accountant General’s office for capturing. Shehu is the one that brought who paid money to my account for job. Some paid N1 million, others N1.5 million, all to my personal account. She asked me to give cash to her, which I did through POS”—Former desk officer at the Federal Character Commission, admitting to collecting bribes in exchange for employment but as a courier for the chairman.

OLUSEGUNADENIYI THE VERDICT

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

AVote for Maryam Shetty I

had never heard the name Maryam Shetty before the second batch of the ministerial list was sent to the Senate. But in the past one week, I have been told several tales (mostly street gossip) about her. That is not unexpected in a patriarchal (and largely hypocritical) society where women are easily defamed. And in a sensational move last Friday, Shetty’s name was dropped from the ministerial list and replaced by another woman from Kano. That the presidency would not have the decency to inform her of the decision (allowing Shetty to arrive the Senate for her confirmation session with fanfare) was what I found most callous. It is also quite telling of the current dysfunctionality at the Villa.

A day after she was dropped, Shetty spoke to her embarrassing elimination by substitution. “I have found myself at the centre of a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s political landscape. President Tinubu, in a move that brought me immense honour, chose me as a ministerial nominee. Coming from the traditional, conservative region of northern Nigeria, this represented a significant stride towards a more inclusive national representation,” she started her take on the unfortunate drama. “Yet, life, with its characteristic unpredictability, led to the withdrawal of my nomination. To some, this could seem like a setback, but my faith as a devout Muslim guided my understanding. I saw it as the divine will of Allah, who I believe grants power as He wishes, when He wishes. His plans are always superior to ours.”

Shetty ended her statement with appreciation to both the president and vice president as well as to those who supported her. She then expressed hope in her future, with the assurance that the disappointment would not shake her faith in Nigeria. “This phase of my life has instilled in me a deeper sense of resilience, faith, and the value of service beyond titles and positions. It has reaffirmed my belief in the potential for change and in the inherent greatness of Nigeria. The dream is still alive, and my commitment to our nation remains steadfast.”

Shetty deserves commendation for her graciousness after being dealt such a heavy blow.

Unfortunately, rather than allow the sleeping dog to lie, the new All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman and former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje decided to stoke a needless fire. “Maryam Shetty’s name emerged from the top, and since Mr President has the right to do as he wishes and we are his followers, one has to be patient; we did not object to it. She was not well-known to us,” Ganduje told some assembled journalists last Saturday in Kano. “We could not appraise her. But suddenly she (Shetty) came under attack on social media.

People questioned her integrity and experience, with many of them doubting her credentials to represent Kano at the national level. There were growing disaffections. The dissatisfaction is not from Ganduje, but the people of Kano.”

It is interesting to note that a ministerial candidate could be dropped because of social media posts by politicians who we all know have scant regard for public opinion, except when it suits their purpose.

But let’s go to the question of Shetty’s credentials and integrity raised by Ganduje. Considering that Shetty has never held any public position before, I doubt if anyone would allege that she took dollar bribes or more egregiously, tried to hide such loot under her wrapper. I am also not aware that Shetty has ever publicly threatened anybody with physical

Maryam Shetty

violence. Besides, if integrity and credentials were indeed preconditions for ministerial appointment, there are not many among the 48 names who are more qualified than Shetty. Nor do I consider her less worthy than the other women on the list. And where did the people of Kano gather to say Shetty cannot represent them?

The idea that a social media campaign led to Shetty being dropped is rather ridiculous, especially coming from Ganduje. If the negative things that have been written and said about the former Kano governor in the past four years really matter to those who dropped Shetty, Ganduje would not be in the position he now occupies. I invite readers to find the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) statement following Ganduje’s coronation as APC national chairman last week. It is not from my mouth that anybody would hear that the teacher’s mother is a witch, as they used to teach us in those good old days in the village! But Ganduje was not done with his hatchet job against a woman young enough to be his daughter: “President Bola Tinubu’s attention was drawn to the torrent of criticisms greeting Shetty’s nomination. The president asked whether I had nominated Shetty. I said no. He asked how then her name appeared on the list. I told him I had no idea whatsoever.”

The president knew nothing about the woman he was to appoint a minister or how she emerged on the list, according to one of his closest henchmen and current national chairman of the ruling party!

Nothing can be more damning. We are talking about a nomination to the federal executive council, whose members will superintend critical sectors for the president. One oga ‘from the top’ (Ganduje’s words, not mine) just inserted Shetty’s name. You begin to wonder how many names got on the list in such manner.

The decision-making process at the villa, going by what Ganduje said next, raises so many questions.

“When he asked whether there was a need to replace her, I answered in the affirmative, because

the ministerial slot requires someone with integrity, knowledge, experience, and commitment to the party – what one contributed to the making of the Tinubu administration. To satisfy these requirements, we are in the best position to nominate somebody from Kano. Even if someone recommended somebody, we should have been consulted on the matter.”

At a period when our country is going through serious challenges with hope that the next federal executive council will be peopled by those who will contribute ideas to improve the lives and livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians and influence social change, Ganduje has told us the factors informing the choice of ministerial nominees. Stripped of all pretensions, Shetty might have been dropped because, from what is now in the public domain, she was a social media cheer leader for former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo’s presidential aspiration and only switched to Tinubu after the APC primaries. So, Ganduje is invariably saying, “Shetty did not work for us from the beginning of ‘Project Emilokan’; she cannot now just come to eat.”

In his 30th July column, ‘Matters Arising from Tinubu’s Partial Ministerial List’, Waziri Adio wrote that despite all the drama and the suspense around it, Tinubu’s ministerial list landed ‘not with a bang but a whimper’ to the disappointment of many Nigerians. “Save for the presence of a few clearly exceptional nominees, the incomplete list left many Nigerians with a hollow feeling: ‘is this it—is this the list that took the president almost all of the allowed time to compile and send, is this what we have been anxiously waiting for?’” To Waziri, and this is a view shared by many, Tinubu’s ministerial list “looks like a settlement/compensation list”, adding that the president “comes off as placing more priority on rewarding those who, within and outside his party, worked for his victory and the long-term aides who need to be compensated for staying the course with him.”

That much has now been confirmed by Ganduje who concluded his diatribe with how he nominated his former commissioner for higher education to replace Shetty. “We are happy because the people of Kano are happy with the current development,” he said even as readers may wonder who conducted the poll to sample how happy or sad the people of Kano are about dropping Shetty’s name from

the ministerial list.

I don’t know the Shetty lady, but she can hold her head high. She has not committed any crime to warrant the humiliation she suffered, even if she lobbied her way to the list—as many others also did. But Shetty is not even the issue for me. The real concern here is how much control President Tinubu has over his own government. After the inglorious era of ‘I am not aware’, Nigerians would not want to be saddled with another set of proxy and shadow presidents. Yet, the overall handling of the ministerial list is, to put it mildly, disgraceful. Even in the case of Shetty, the lack of diligence and thoroughness is reflected in the fact that it was her nickname rather than the real surname, Shettima Ibrahim, that appeared on the list sent to the Senate.

Leadership recruitment at the highest level of governance, which nomination into the federal cabinet represents, is different from hiring for routine jobs. Unfortunately, except for a few good men and women, the next federal executive council appears more of an APC pork sharing list than the team of a serious new government. Indeed, from what we have witnessed in recent weeks, the entire process was so banal that just about anybody can be a minister in Nigeria if you know someone ‘from the top’. That’s the real takeaway from the Shetty fiasco which Ganduje and fellow travellers cannot see. Otherwise, he would have kept quiet.

In a statement he personally signed on 16th March, then as president-elect, Tinubu promised to assemble a cabinet driven only by competence and that he would be blind to other considerations.

“There have been talks of a government of national unity” he wrote in the statement that delighted many neutrals. “My aim is higher than that. I seek a government of national competence. In selecting my government, I shall not be weighed down by considerations extraneous to ability and performance. The day for political gamesmanship is long gone.” Securing Nigeria and working for its prosperity, according to Tinubu, “must be our top priorities. We cannot sacrifice these goals to political expediency. The whims of politics must take a backseat to the imperatives of governance.”

Thanks to Ganduje, we now know that was just another audio promise!

2023 Teens Conference

O

nline registration for the 2023 edition of the teens career conference of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, The Everlasting Arms Parish (TEAP) will be closed by this weekend. The conference holds next week Saturday, 19th August with the theme, ‘Wake Up and Take Responsibility’.

It will be streamed live. The main speaker this year is the Chairman of both UBA and Heirs Holdings, Mr Tony Elumelu, CFR. He is being joined by two British women, Ms Dorota Oakley Matuszyk and Ms Juliet Lamin. As in previous editions, it is going to be a day of fun, music, networking and impactful sessions. While attendance is completely free of charge (including food and drinks), intending participants must register online by visiting www.rccgteapteens. ng. But only a few slots remain.

Tony Elumelu

Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja .

All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos. EMAIL: editor@thisdaylive.com, info@thisdaylive.com. TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485. Abuja: Tel: 08155555292, 08155555929 24/7 ADVERTISING HOT LINES: 0811 181 3085 0811 181 3086, 0811 181 3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811 181 3089, 0811 181 3090. ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: adsbooking@thisdaylive.com