SATURDAY 19TH AUGUST 2023

Electronic Fraudsters Steal N9.5bn from Banks, Payment Systems in 7 Months CBN calls for enhanced collaboration to stem the tide Releases fresh guidelines for forex sale by BDCs

Nume Ekeghe

The Director of Payment Systems

Management of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Musa Jimoh, who doubles as the Chairman of Nigeria

Electronic Fraud Forum (NeFF), yesterday disclosed that accumulated Electronic Fraud (E-Fraud) within the

banking sector and payment systems network has led to a loss of N9.5 billion so far in 2023.

Jimoh, who was speaking at the Q3 2023 general meeting of NeFF in Lagos, where stakeholders converged to

discuss “New Strategies for Combating Continued on page 5

Don't Merge or Scrap Niger Delta Ministry, PANDEF Warns President...

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Saturday 19 August, 2023 Vol 28. No 10356

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ECOWAS Defence Chiefs Agree On D-Day for Invasion of Niger UN to Junta: Rule-By-Gun has no place in today’s world

Bennett Oghifo The Defence Chiefs of the Economic

Community of West African States (ECOWAS) ended their two-day meeting in Accra, Ghana, yesterday,

with an agreement on a “D-day” for a possible military intervention to restore civil rule in Niger Republic

if diplomatic efforts fail.

This is coming on the heels of the United Nations reaction to Niger’s

military junta threat to prosecute deposed President Mohamed Bazoum for high treason, saying “rule-by-gun

has no place in today’s world.”

Continued on page 5

Gas is Elixir for Nigeria’s Economic Reconstruction, Growth, Says Tinubu Promises to work with all partners to redefine the future of economy with gas Targets 11,500 gas-powered vehicles as CNG initiative is approved

Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu has pledged his administration's unalloyed commitment to leveraging on the domestic utilisation, processing and export of Nigeria's massive gas resources to catalyse the fundamental restructuring of the nation's economy for expansive growth during his tenure.

On the same day, the President approved the establishment of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) in furtherance of his commitment to easing the impact of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians by reducing energy costs.

Speaking yesterday at the State House, Abuja, during a meeting with the Board and Management of the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited, the President affirmed that all encumbrances to the entrepreneurial progress industrious citizens, as well as impediments to business practice in the Oil and Gas sector, will be swiftly removed to create more opportunities for Nigerian companies and international partners Continued on page 5

CELEBRATING LATEST COUPLE IN KANO… L-R: Senator Aliyu Wammako; Senator Kabir Gaya; Senator Aminu Tambuwal; Vice President Kashim Shettima and Dr. Goni Umar Farouk at the wedding Fatiha of Bilkisu Madakin (Hon Aliyu Sani’s daughter) and Abdullahi Jibrin (Senator Jibrin Barau’s son) in Kano …yesterday.

In Search of Terrorists, Air Force Bombards Kwaki, Chikuba Forests in Niger State...

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COURTESY CALL… L-R: Board Chairman, Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas Limited (NLNG), Edmund Daukoru; President Bola Tinubu; Managing Director, NLNG, Dr Phillip Mshelbila, and Group Managing Director, NNPCL, Mele Kyari during the visit of NLNG Executive to the Presidential Villa, Abuja…yesterday.

GODWIN OMOIGUI

GAS IS ELIXIR FOR NIGERIA’S ECONOMIC RECONSTRUCTION, GROWTH, SAYS TINUBU to thrive on the natural and human resource wealth which God had bestowed upon the nation.

“It is now a collaborative effort in thinking and doing. We will work with all partners to redefine the future of our economy," the President told the NLNG delegation, which was led by its Board Chairman, King Edmund Daukuru of Nembe Kingdom and the NLNG Managing Director, Dr. Philip Mshelbila.

President Tinubu affirmed the position of natural gas as Nigeria’s gateway to sustainable development and prosperity, pledging to build a partnership with investors that will guarantee job opportunities and skill development for Nigerian youths in the overriding best interest of the oil and gas producing environments.

“It is all about growing the pie so that Nigerians will benefit. Skill development will help the many restive youths who need to be carried along and employed. Their lives need to be more predictable and prosperous,"

the President said.

He appreciated the difficulties faced by the NLNG, particularly on security, affirming that stakeholders, including the host communities and security agencies, will play more central roles in the resolution of troublesome points of contention for more peaceful and profitable operations on a sustainable basis.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Board told the President that the frustrations faced by non-government stakeholders in operations were being collectively shared with the government, and that the communities should play a greater role in ameliorating the situation, noting that issues of trust between investors and host communities must be properly handled with an emphasis on end-to-end process inclusivity.

Mshelbila and the delegation congratulated the President on his victory in the 2023 Presidential elections, and setting the tone early and aggressively with bold and correct,

long-term reforms which will transform the Nigerian economy within a short period of time.

He further stated that the company had provided a new standard of efficiency in Nigerian public and private sector partnership that is worthy of emulation.

While noting the contribution of more than USD$1 billion to new tax revenue generation in 2022, the NLNG chief executive emphasised that this was achieved despite NLNG operating significantly below capacity, due to regional insecurity, in addition to changing industry tax modifications introduced by successive Finance Act amendments, of which they heartily commended the President's recent action to suspend the impedimentinducing provisions in recent weeks.

Berths Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative President

Tinubu

yesterday

approved the establishment of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) in furtherance of his commitment to easing the impact of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians by reducing energy costs.

The transformative initiative is poised to revolutionise the transportation landscape in the country, targeting over 11,500 new CNG-enabled vehicles and 55,000 CNG conversion kits for existing PMS-dependent vehicles, while simultaneously bolstering in-country manufacturing, local assembly and expansive job creation in line with the presidential directive.

The initiative, comprising of a Comprehensive Adoption Strategy, will include Empowering Workshops Programme/Nationwide Network of Workshops, Local Assembly and Job Creation as key points of emphasis with an initial focus on mass transit systems and student hubs in order to significantly reduce transit costs for the general populace in the

ELECTRONIC FRAUDSTERS STEAL N9.5BN FROM BANKS, PAYMENT SYSTEMS IN 7 MONTHS E-Fraud in a cashless Environment”, called for enhanced collaboration within the payment systems’ ecosystem to curtail the rise in E-Fraud.

Jimoh said: “We are gathered to see how we can secure our environment, how we can secure our digital environment, and how we can secure cyberspace. We all keep our money in electronic form.

“Today, we are here to continue that conversation to look at new strategies by which we can combat E-fraud. If we don't combat the cyber criminals, they will take us down and disrupt the entire system. So, we all need to work together to see how we can make life extremely difficult for cybercriminals.

“We need to look at new ways, new techniques, and more efficient manners by which we can improve and guard against the banking and payment infrastructure and educate ourselves on how we can safeguard our bank credentials or tokens and all the information that the banks have provided to us to safeguard. The more information we have about what they're doing, the more we are protected.

“The objective is to have zero fraud, but you know, this is a gradual process because as you're building techniques, they're also exploiting other areas. As more people come into the financial sector, as more transactions happen, people are vulnerable and so we need enlightenment, education. We will continue to push it, which is why it's going to be a very long journey.

“But I know that with the kind of enlightenment and the push by the bankers' committee, and other stakeholders, a lot of Nigerians will be well educated to know that they have to keep all the accounting details very secret and therefore we anticipate that the incidence of fraud we taper

down almost to zero.”

In giving insights into E-fraud data in 2023, the Managing Director of Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), Premier Oiwoh noted that the industry in 2023 recorded its highest actual loss value of N2.7 billion in January while June 2023 had the lowest value of over N800 million.

He added that the highest fraud count in the last six months was recorded in May 2023 with 11,716 records while the lowest count was in June 2023 with 6,240.

Represented by the Chief Risk Officer, NIBBS, Temidayo Adekanye, he said: “Recently, we had the cashless policies from CBN, which was incurring a dramatic increase in the volume of transactions in the industry which variably has the impact of the volume of fraud in the industry itself. Now, the increase and efficiency have also meant that fraud has dramatically increased across the industry. For Q1 2023, the total fraud reported through the industry forum portal was at N5.1 billion.

“For fraud trends over the last five years, in 2019, we're looking at about N3 billion and currently 2023, we are looking at about N9.5 billion to date. Fraud losses have increased dramatically over the last five years.”

He further stated that in recent periods, scammers have developed a method to redirect funds via betting platforms and wallet accounts, resulting in minimal success rates for recovering those funds through these avenues due to insufficient identifications.

Adekanye said: “What we see most is the fact that the primary channels are the betting platforms. So once the money hits the betting platform or a wallet account or in some cases, POS agents, once it is cashed out, it is a black hole. There is no way you can

recover that money. We're talking about potentially 5 per cent recovery rates across the industry. So, we all have to identify those betting and wallets accounts, POS agents, cryptocurrency accounts, and in some cases purchases.”

Also, the CBN Director, accompanied by the Managing Director Fidelity Bank, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, and other stakeholders unveiled the NeFF official website to aid collaboration and information sharing to curtail E-fraud.

Onyeali-Ikpe said the gradual escalation of E-Fraud is beginning to erode customers' trust in the financial system. She emphasised the need for a swift and decisive approach to address E-fraud within the financial sector.

She said: “As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, our reliance on digital transactions have grown exponentially. However, with the rise of these digital interactions, the threat of E-fraud has become a significant challenge affecting individuals, businesses, and the industry. The data we have from the NiBBS is that the volume of electronic payment transactions in Nigeria increased by 298 per cent Year-on-Year.

“The banking industry lost a total of N14.3 billion to electronic fraud in 2022 up from N12.7 billion in 2021.

As Q1 2023 is about today it’s N5 billion and then the problem here is that the trend so far shows that if this continues unchecked, it would rise to N20 billion for the full year.

“E-fraud has permeated multiple industries, spanning from banking and finance to e-commerce and beyond.

These cybercriminals leverage advanced methods to exploit vulnerabilities, gaining unauthorised access to crucial data and funds. The repercussions of e-fraud are not limited to financial losses; they also extend to eroding

trust and eroding brand reputation.”

CBN Releases Fresh Guidelines for Forex Sale

By BDCs The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has released fresh operational mechanisms for the sale of forex by Bureau De Change (BDCs) operators within the country.

“The spread on buying and selling

by BDC Operators shall be within an allowable limit of -2.5% to +2.5% of the Nigerian Foreign Exchange market window weighted average rate of the previous day,” the CBN said in a statement uploaded to its website yesterday.

It added: “Mandatory rendition

by BDC Operators of the statutory periodic reports (daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly and yearly) on the Financial Institution Forex Rendition System (FIFX) which has been upgraded to meet individual Operator’s requirements.

“Operators are to note that with effect from the date of this circular, non-rendition of returns would attract sanctions which may include withdrawal of operating license. Where Operators do not have any transaction within the period, they are- expected to render nil returns. Please be guided accordingly and ensure compliance.”

The new leadership at the CBN, in an effort to stabilise the foreign exchange market has asked the BDCs to be guided and stick to the new guidelines.

The apex bank did not state expressly if it would resume the sale of dollars to the BDCs. According to the CBN website, there are 5,687 licenced BDCs in the country.

immediate term.

Furthermore, in line with the PCNGI's determination to ensure a seamless integration of CNG utility within the current midstream and downstream energy value chain to support its sustainability, the PCNGI will facilitate the provision of workshops across all geopolitical zones and states with essential kits and comprehensive training for newly employed staff, thus creating new opportunities for technical skill development and employment for Nigerians.

The new nationwide network of workshops, to be established through the initiative, would ensure widespread access and demand side utilization of CNG technology and CNG-related expertise, thereby facilitating smoother transitions for vehicle owners at the wider benefit

of the Nigerian economy.

Under the aegis of the PCNGI, the following strategic objectives will be achieved: The development of new stakeholder-operated Intrastate Mass Transit systems built on CNG; Support for states to onboard new CNG buses as part of their Intrastate Mass Transit network (wholesale conversion, retro-fitting and new purchase); The deployment of CNG buses through existing Private Mass Transit operators, including new financing programmes for operators through an innovative asset finance programme; Incentivize investors to invest in CNG processing, distribution and utilization by providing incentives for enhanced investment and partnership and Deliver training and technology transfer to support the After-Sales Services and maintenance sub-industry to create sustainable jobs.

ECOWAS DEFENCE CHIEFS AGREE ON D-DAY FOR INVASION OF NIGER Soldiers from the Presidential Guard had on July 26 deposed President Bazoum, thus truncating the constitutional political leadership in the West African country. Two days later, the soldiers named General Abdourahamane Tchiani as the new leader of the country, with Tchiani warning against any foreign military intervention.

After a meeting of ECOWAS Heads of States and Government in Abuja last week, the bloc directed the deployment of a “standby force” to restore democracy in Niger.

The West African army chiefs decided to meet in Ghana (Thursday and Friday) to hatch out the logistics and strategy for a possible use of force in Niger that ECOWAS has said would be a last resort.

Speaking yesterday after the Defence Chiefs’ meeting, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Abdel-Fatau Musah, said the “D-Day” for the military intervention in Niger Republic had been agreed, without disclosing the exact date.

Musah said: “We are ready to go anytime the order is given. The D-Day is also decided. We’ve already agreed and fine-tuned what will be required for the intervention.”

Musah noted that the community was still seeking to engage with the junta peacefully, saying, “As we speak, we are still readying a mediation mission into the country, so we have not shut any door.”

The ECOWAS Defence Chiefs had on the first day of the two-day meeting in the Ghanaian capital, Accra, to fine-tune details of a potential military operation to restore Bazoum if continuing negotiations with coup leaders fail, pledged readiness to participate in a standby force that would restore democracy in Niger.

On that first day, all member states, except those under military rule and Cape Verde, agreed to activate

a “standby force” as a last resort to restore democracy in Niger.

On July 30, ECOWAS, led by Nigeria, decided on sanctions against the military Junta in Niger and gave a week’s ultimatum to them to restore ousted Bazoum to office.

In addition to a one-week ultimatum to restore constitutional order and the suspension of financial transactions with Niger, ECOWAS decreed the freezing of “all service transactions, including energy transactions.”

UN to Niger Junta: Rule-By-Gun Has No Place in Today’s World Meanwhile, the United Nations yesterday reacted to Niger’s military junta threat to prosecute deposed President Mohamed Bazoum for high treason, saying “rule-by-gun has no place in today’s world.”

Last Sunday, the Niger junta threatened to prosecute Bazoum for high treason over his exchanges with foreign heads of state and international organisations.

Junta spokesperson Colonel Amadou Abdramane said last Sunday that the military authorities had “gathered the necessary evidence to prosecute the ousted president for high treason and undermining the internal and external security of Niger.”

Reacting yesterday, the UN Human Rights Chief, Volker Turk said there was no legal basis for Niger’s military junta to prosecute deposed president Bazoum for high treason.

Turk, also stated that the very notion of freedom in Niger was at stake.

He said, “This decision is not only politically motivated against a democratically elected President but has no legal basis as the normal functioning of democratic institutions has been cast aside.

“The very notion of freedom in Niger is at stake. Generals cannot take it upon themselves to defy – at a whim – the will of the people.

Rule-by-gun has no place in today’s world.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 19, 2023

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NEWS

News Editor Charles Ajunwa 09157401421 (sms only) Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

Jonathan Leads AU, COMESA Election Mission to Zimbabwe Chuks Okocha in Abuja Former President Goodluck Jonathan is billed to leave for Harare today where he would be leading a joint observer mis-

sion of the Africa Union (AU) and Common Market for East and Southern Africa (COMESA) to observe Zimbabwe’s general elections scheduled to take place

Smart Adeyemi, Achimugu Lose Appeals against Ahmed Ododo’s Nomination Alex Enumah in Abuja Two aspirants under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Smart Adeyemi and Mr. Abubakar Achimugu, have lost in their bid to remove Ahmed Ododo as candidate of the party in the forthcoming governorship election in Kogi State.

This was following a dismissal of their separate suits by the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

The appellate court in their judgements dismissed the appeals seeking to upturn the judgement of a Federal High Court, Abuja in favour of Ododo for lacking in merit.

In the lead judgement delivered

by Justice Muhammed Shuaibu, the appellate court held that the former lawmaker failed to prove the criminal allegations in his case.

Justice Lawal held that, the burden of proof lies on the plaintiff who alleges irregularities in the conduct of the primary election of the APC for the nomination of its governorship candidate in the forthcoming governorship election in Kogi State. He said, “the evidence placed before the trial court by the respondents was not controverted by the appellant in this circumstance, issue one is hereby resolved against the appellant.

“Where commission of a crime is an issue, it must be proved beyond reasonable doubt. Al-

legation of falsification of votes is a criminal act and it is required in law to be proved beyond reasonable doubt, which the appellant could not prove, consequently, issue two is resolved against the appellant.

“On the whole, the appeal is un-meritorious and it is hereby dismissed. The judgement of the lower court is hereby affirmed.

Parties are to bear their respective cost,” Justice Shuaibu held.

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja had, in a judgement delivered on July 12, held that Adeyemi did not prove his allegation that Ododo was not lawfully nominated by the APC. Adeyemi had alleged in his suit that the primary election that purportedly produced Ododo as the APC governorship candidate did not hold and that the results were forged.

Delivering judgement in the suit marked FHC/CS/556/2023, Justice Omotosho held that Adeyemi’s allegations of results forgery were criminal and must be proved beyond reasonable doubts.

The court noted that the burden of proof was on the applicant to produce the forged results or the original copies of the results to discharge the burden and added that, failure to discharge the burden was fatal to the applicant’s case and further held that, there was evidence that the primary election was validly held and monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In Search of Terrorists, Air Force Bombards Kwaki, Chikuba Forests in Niger State Laleye Dipo in Minna Nigerian Air force Jets have bombed several forests in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State on Thursday evening leaving many people in surrounding community injured and property destroyed.

Chikuba and Kwaki communities are said to be worst hit by the bombardments.

Both Chububa and Kwaki areas are the communities where the terrorist group led by Dogo Gide shot down a military helicopter conveying the remains of 13 soldiers killed in a bandit ambush in the Kundu area of Wushishi Local Government Area of the state early this week.

The aerial raid of the areas THISDAY learnt was one of the offensive by the military against the dreaded Islamic Terrorist Group which a very informed source said had turned the areas especially Chikuba to their haven.

It was learnt that for over two years the Dogo Gide group had hoisted its flag in the area after most of the community members all escaped to neighbouring Erena.

THISDAY learnt that some civilians were killed in the Thursday raid by the military jets.

One of the Co-Convener of the

Concerned Shiroro YouthsAssociation, a non-governmental organisation, Comrade Abubakar Yussuf Kokki, confirmed the raid to THISDAY yesterday, saying not less than three women have been confirmed dead as a result of the operations.

According to Kokki, “the communities suffered multiple serial bombardments as ceaseless sounds could be heard from around the villages which resulted in the loss of many lives among other avoidable destructions.

“So far, about three women have been confirmed dead while several others injured, sustained various degrees of injuries requiring urgent medical attention.

“At the moment, search effort is still ongoing in order to ascertain the accurate casualty figure and other destructions,” Kokki said.

It would be recalled that heavily armed troops in several trucks moved to the area on Tuesday before the visit of the Chief of Army Staff to the troubled area.

No state government official was prepared to speak on the development.

Also the Niger State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, could not be reached for his comment.

on August 23.

According to a statement by the AU Commission Chairperson, Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat, the joint AU-COMESA team is composed of 73 short-term observers and three core teams of electoral experts, who would be involved in the election observation activities from 16 to 29 August 2023 in Zimbabwe.

He explained that the objective of AU and COMESA election observer mission is to provide accurate and impartial reporting or assessment of the quality of the harmonised elections which includes observing the degree to which the conduct of the elections meets regional, continental, and international standards for democratic elections.

It will be the fourth time Jonathan would be leading an AU election observation

mission since 2016, having led the continental body’s missions to Tanzania, Mozambique and Zambia.

The AU Chairperson’s statement said: “The joint mission will be led by His Excellency, the former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan in collaboration with Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, former Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda.”

It further said: “The observer team is expected to offer recommendations for improvement of future elections based on the findings; and demonstrate AU’s solidarity and support towards Zimbabwe’s election and democratisation process to ensure that the conduct of democratic, credible and peaceful elections contributes to the consolidation of democratic

governance, peace and stability in the country.”

The AU chairperson also said the joint AU-COMESA EOM would engage with several stakeholders and observe the final preparations and polling process, adding that the observer mission would issue its preliminary statement after the election date.

According to Mahamat, the mission would be guided by AU and COMESA statutes governing the holding of elections whose aim is to promote good governance among other democratic tenets.

“The joint AU-COMESA EOM draws its mandate from various AU and COMESA instruments, most importantly: the African Union Guidelines for Elections Observation and Monitoring Missions (2002); the OAU/

AU Declaration on Principles Governing Democratic Elections in Africa (2002); African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (1981); the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (2007); and the COMESA Elections Observation Guidelines among others.

“It is also in line with Aspiration Number 3 of the AU Agenda 2063, which aims to ensure good governance, democracy, and respect for human rights, justice, and rule of law.”

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and Government recently invited local and international observers to observe the country’s polls.

Other international observer missions including the European Union and Carter Centre have already deployed its team to observe the country’s elections.

GOOD TO SEE YOU… L-R: Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and the Minister designate for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, at Government House, Abuja... yesterday

10 Years After, NEMA Yet to Receive USAID $1m Donation for Flood Victims Kasim Sumaina in Abuja The Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mustapha Ahmed, yesterday said the agency is yet to receive the $1million donation from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for the support of flood victims in 2022.

The NEMA boss stated this when journalists asked to know about the funds promised and widely celebrated in 2022.

Recall, the US Embassy, in a statement by its Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard had announced the

donation in October 2022.

The US had explained that the unusual heavy rainfall, which resulted in flooding, had affected nearly 2.8 million people across the country.

The statement added that many homes had been damaged or completely destroyed, displacing millions of persons.

The US Government stressed that the $1 million in new USAID support would allow local partners on the ground to provide emergency shelter assistance, relief commodities, and hygiene kits to promote safe and healthy practices amid the on-going cholera

outbreak and multipurpose cash assistance for people affected by the devastating floods.

Part of the statement read: “The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is providing $1 million in immediate humanitarian assistance to support the people affected by unprecedented flooding in Nigeria.”

However, after over 10 months now, NEMA, the lead agency in humanitarian response, is yet to get the donation.

According to the DG NEMA, “I also read about the story in the papers last year but I can confirm

that we have not received any $1million from USAID.” Meanwhile, the Director General of NEMA has also assured Zamfara State of the readiness of the agency to assist in addressing the humanitarian problems caused by bandits and terrorist attacks.

He stated this yesterday when the Governor of Zamfara, Dr. Dauda Lawal, visited him at the headquarters of NEMA in Abuja.

He said: “First, I commend the governor to appreciate NEMA for the interventions and I assure you that Zamfara will get all the assistance they need just like other states of the federation.”

PFN President Urges Tinubu to End Insecurity, Economic Pain Kemi Olaitan inIbadan The National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, has urged President Bola Tinubu and the ministers-designate recently assigned portfolios to assuage the pains of Nigerians rather than add to their long-drawn anguish and sorrow occasioned by poor governance experienced under the past leadership.

Bishop Oke appealed to the President to find ways to work

with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to avoid war over the military coup in the Niger Republic.

The PFN President who made the appeal while addressing a press conference in Ibadan, to mark the end of a three-day retreat for PFN executives, said rather than fight those who did not contribute to his electoral victory, the President should be magnanimous by bringing relief to all Nigerians regardless of class or creed.

The Presiding Bishop, Sword of

The Spirit Ministries International, who was flanked by other leaders of the Fellowship, however, enjoined the citizens to also prepare to submit to the verdict of the presidential election tribunal in good faith bearing in mind the fact that greater tomorrow which lies ahead of the country is peaceful.

According to him, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assigned portfolios to the new ministers, 46 of them. We have counsel for you Mr. President and

the cabinet. The experience in the last eight years had been very traumatic for Nigerians viz-a-viz kidnapping, banditry, Fulani herdsmen, ritualism, all manners of evil.

Then with the economy,Nigerians are battlingwithsomuch,soMr.Presidentand the ministers, please relieve Nigerians of their pains, don’t add to it.

“Be conscious of the fact that we are a very traumatised nation. Add balm and relieve Nigerians of their pains in the areas that I mentioned insecurity, poor economy and awful.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 19, 2023

NEWS

Don’t Merge Or Scrap Niger Delta Ministry, PANDEF Tells President Tinubu Sunday Aborisade in Abuja The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has advised the President Bola Tinubu’s administration to restore the Niger Delta Affairs Ministry to

avoid adverse environmental consequences in the oil rich region.

PANDEF gave the advice after the emergency meeting of its Board of Trustees (BOT) and National Executive Committee

Bayelsa Senator Calls for Peace in Nembe Rebecca Ejiforma Senator representing Bayelsa East at the National Assembly, Senator Benson Agadaga, has called for Peace over the repeated armed and violent invasion of Opu Nembe (Bassambiri), in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

Senator Agadaga while addressing journalists in Yenagoa yesterday, said the situation is shameful and wicked to humanity.

He stated that he has watched the unfolding events in Opu Nembe in Nembe and equally listened to the alleged biased position of the security agencies on the happenings in Opu Nembe and found it inhuman.

The senator added that in sympathy with the people of Opu

Nembe on the invasion by armed gunmen who shot randomly and sporadically to cause chaos, panic and fear in the land, the federal government, Inspector General of Police, the military and all relevant security agencies should intervene and restore peace in Opu Nembe.

The senator also said the situation in Nembe was political and all because of the build up to the November 11 gubernatorial election in the state.

He urged the people of Opu Nembe to remain law-abiding and uphold the standard of peace in the midst of the horrible situation to avoid more damage and destruction of lives and properties. He assured that the Douye Diri-led government is fully with the people of Opu Nembe to overcome this phase.

held in Abuja, yesterday.

The meeting according to the communique issued after the parley, were signed by the National Leader, Chief Dr. Edwin Clark and the National Chairman, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien.

The communique expressed shock that the assignment of portfolios to the new ministers-designate did not include that of the Niger Delta Affairs Ministry.

The Communique read: “The meeting discussed issues pertaining to the ongoing appointment and assignment of ministers, as it affects the states of the Niger Delta region and South-south geopolitical

zone, particularly, the omission of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.

“The meeting resolves as follows: “Expresses great surprise that in the published assignment of ministers to their various cabinet portfolios, there is none designated for the existing Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.

“Reminds Mr. President that the Ministry of Niger Delta was created, specifically, to ‘focus on infrastructural development, environmental protection and empowerment of youths in the oil-rich Niger Delta region’, which continues to be greatly impacted by the

oil and gas industry, and remains the live-wire of the national economy.

“That the ministry which was created by President Umaru Musa Yar ’Adua in 2008, and was sustained under his two immediate predecessors (Goodluck J onath an and Muh ammadu Buhar i) to help advance the cour se of th e peace in the Niger Delta region.

“Th eref ore, calls on Mr. President to urgently address th e omission.

“Caution s that any misguided step toward scr appin g or submerging the min istr y, will

create an un f avour able environment with adverse consequences.

“Further cautions the federal government to desist from tampering with any institution(s), which along with the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, have been flagship institution(s), to ensure peace and development in the Niger Delta region.

“We are hopeful that the federal government will be properly advised on this matter, even as we reiterate the commitment of the leadership of PANDEF and the people of the region to enduring the reign of peace and stability in the overall interest of country.”

Oba of Benin Remains Uncontestable Head of All Traditional Rulers, Chiefs, Says Edo State Govt The Edo State Government has said that the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, remains the uncontestable head of all the traditional rulers and chiefs in Edo State.

The state government also insisted that the subvention to the monarch has increased since Governor Godwin Obaseki came into office and has not been reduced as being falsely peddled by mischief makers.

In a statement by the state Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Osa Nehikhare, Edo State Government said the monarch’s funding increased since the commencement of the administration of Governor Obaseki because the Value Added Tax (VAT) and the excess crude components have been included.

“The Oba of Benin’s position as the permanent head of all the traditional rulers in Edo State remains sacrosanct in the state government’s implementation of

the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979, especially as relates to section 45 of the edict.

“Recently, in the wake of some disagreement among some traditional rulers in the state, the traditional rulers agreed with the state government to temporarily warehouse the fund in a central pool until the administrative issues were addressed. This was between April 2023 and July 2023.

“It is important to state here that against the false information that the fund was withheld from July 2022 to July 2023, all statutory payment was paid until April 2023, when it was agreed for the funds to be warehoused till date for the resolution of outstanding issues.

“These administrative issues have now been resolved by the Edo State Government and the palace delegation led by the Iyase of Benin, Chief Sam Igbe, and this pool of funds is now being disbursed to the various traditional rulers across the State as well as the Benin Traditional Council.

RECOGNISED FOR EXCELLENCE...

L-R: Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, James Christoff and Acting Comptroller General of Immigration Service, Caroline WuraolaAdepoju, when the former visited her office in Abuja

Job Racketeering: House C’ttee Has not Indicted JAMB, Says Gadgi Juliet Akoje in Abuja The Chairman of the House of Representatives Adhoc Committee investigating job racketeering in federal agencies, Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gadgi, yesterday said that the committee has not indicted the Registrar of the Joint Admission and Matriculations Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyode or any agency.

Speaking at the resumed

Foundation Feeds Sokoto IDPs, Donates Food Items to Victims Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

A non-governmental organisation, T200 Foundation, has launched a novel charity outreach, feeding thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

It also donated assorted food stuff such as rice, spaghetti, salt and tomatoes paste to thousands of the victims at the camp The founder of the foundation, Ambassador Emmanuel Osadebe, while addressing journalists after the programme, expressed disgust over the humanitarian crisis ravaging the camp.

He called on other organisations and well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of the victims.

Osadebe explained that they got wind of the plight of people living in the camp and when they came to appraise the situation they became more concerned which prompted him to do something quickly to save innocent lives.

He explained that the novel outreach was aimed at feeding them the way other people in affluent homes feed.

He commended the camp’s chairman for coordinating the people, advising him to ensure that every household in the camp get equal share of the food items,

irrespective of where they come from.

He further explained that aside the feeding and presentation of food items to the victims, his foundation has a plan of training them in skills acquisition to enable them to be self-reliant.

Speaking on behalf of the Sokoto State Government, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Humanitarian and Disaster Management, Hajia Amina Jakada, thanked the foundation for its benevolent gesture.

She noted that Governor Ahmed Aliyu is committed to tackling the security challenges bedevilling the eastern part of the state.

hearing yesterday, Gagdi said it was wrong to insinuate that the committee had indicted the JAMB registrar when it was still carrying out its assignment.

He noted that there have been reports in the media that the committee indicted the JAMB Registrar for employing about 300 staff without advertisement.

He thereby stressed that “the committee has been hav-

ing a robust engagement with all agencies appearing before it. The committee concludes its assignment and submits a report to the House, it cannot be said that it has indicted any agency for any wrong doing.

“I want to say here that as a matter of fact, don’t take any report of indictment against anybody. This committee has not indicted the Registrar of JAMB and we have not indicted

any institution. You can only say that after we submit our report. There are reports going out that we have indicted JAMB Registrar. No, we have not submitted any report anywhere and so, don’t quote us out of context please.”

He however added that, “We had a very good interaction with him and nobody should preempt the decision of this committee to say that somebody is faulty.”

Falana Faults Floating of Naira, Says, He has Taken CBN to Court Chuks Okocha in Abuja Human rights activist, Femi Falana, yesterday faulted the decision of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) under President Bola Tinubu to float the Naira, describing it as illegal as it is being challenged in court.

He explained that there is nowhere in any economy that the currency is allowed to float as in the case of the Nigeria’s Naira He further said that even with the $3,000,000,000 loan granted the Central Bank would soon be of no effect as the United States Dollar

would swallow up the loan.

Falana called for the reintroduction of the currency swap between Nigeria and China as a measure to increase the value of the Naira.

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), who was on a television programme monitored in Abuja, said the CBN Act made it compulsory for the apex bank to fix the exchange rate.

According to the human rights activist, “There’s no provision for floating the Naira. It’s illegal. You say, ‘The value of the naira will

be determined by market forces.’ That is not there in the law.

“I’ve had to sue the Central Bank of Nigeria at the Federal High Court because Section 16 of the Central Bank Act has imposed a duty on the Central Bank to fix and determine the rate of the Naira vis-à-vis other currencies.”

Falana stressed that Section 20(1) of the CBN Act provides that the only legal tender in Nigeria shall be the currency notes issued by the Central Bank: “only the Naira.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 19, 2023

9

NEWS British Council Trains School Inspectors, Teacher-Mentors

TRAINING THE TRAINER… L-R: Lead Master Trainer with British Council, Dr. Phillip Hayab; the Director of Programmes, Mr. Chikodi Onyemerela; UBEC Director of Teacher’s Development, Mr. Aleshin Olumayowa; the Head of English for Education Systems, Nigeria, Mr. Fwanshishak Daniel and the Project Officer of English Programmes for British Council, Mr. Albert Ameh, at the inauguration of English training programme for Nigerian teachers by British Council and Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) in Lagos...recently

Ganduje: Tinubu Will Deploy Technology to Address Insecurity Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abdulahi Ganduje, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu will deploy technology to address the menace of insecurity in the country.

Ganduje disclosed this yesterday when a delegation of the North-central APC Elders Forum led by a former Military Governor of Katsina and Plateau

states, General Lawrence Onoja (rtd), paid him a courtesy visit at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja.

The chairman also said the 3UHVLGHQW ZRXOG HͿHFWLYHO\ manage Nigeria’s diversity, adding that the Tinubu administration would spread appointments across every part of the federation.

Ganduje said; “Pertaining to insecurity, the President has agreed to employ technology

in the management of security in Nigeria, in particular our forests that have become cities for bandits.

“Mr. President is fully conscious of that; he is ready in order to make the institutions strong, the army, Air Force, the Navy, the DSS, Civil Defence, even the NIA. He is rejigging the institutions to ensure that we conquer insecurity in the country.

“The North-central geopoliti-

cal zone is a good example of unity and diversity, and coincidentally, Mr. President is the one who is an expert in managing diversities if you look at the composition of his cabinet when he was the governor of Lagos.

So, the issue of tribalism is put aside, the issue of ethnicity, the issue of religion is also put aside as he is Muslim and his wife is a pastor, so he is living by example, as far as managing diversity is concerned.

Over 3.5 million people are internally displaced in the country as a result of crises, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) data has revealed.

Also the insurgency in the 1RUWK HDVW PRVWO\ DͿHFWLQJ Borno, Adamawa and Yobe (BAY) states, have led to the loss of 37 aid workers since 2016 with additional 24 wounded and 34 kidnapped, according to the Aid Worker Security Database.

Speaking at the commemoration of the World Humanitarian Day, which was marked in Abuja by a road walk by stakeholders in the humanitarian sector, the Permanent Secretary of the 0LQLVWU\ RI +XPDQLWDULDQ $ͿDLUV Dr. Nasir Sani Gwarzo, noted that the essence of this year’s theme, #NoMatterWhat, encapsulates the profound essence of humanitarian action, being the core principle

that drives humanitarians is their steadfast commitment to extending life-saving assistance, irrespective of an individual’s identity or geographical location.

He said: “Humanitarian workers stand as beacons of hope, traversing perilous paths to ensure aid reaches its intended recipients, regardless of the challenges they encounter. In recognising that crises recognise no boundaries, humanitarians, too, acknowledge no barriers in their mission to assist those in dire need - no matter what.”

Gwarzo said: “It is paramount to acknowledge that frontline humanitarian workers are integral to the well-being of our nation.

7KHLU VHOÁHVV HQGHDYRXUV DPLGVW FRQÁLFW ]RQHV DQG DUHDV D΁LFWHG E\ natural disasters epitomise service to Nigeria. Their altruism not only ameliorates the conditions of those they assist but also contributes to the stability and prosperity of our nation.

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia Barely four days after the conclusion of proceedings on WKH SHWLWLRQV ÀOHG DJDLQVW WKH Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, the candidate of the Action Alliance(AA) has dramatically disowned the petition linked to him.

The Action Alliance and the Labour Party (LP) along with their candidates in the February 25, 2023 poll for Bende federal FRQVWLWXHQF\ ÀOHG SHWLWLRQV DW the National and State House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Umuahia.

The tribunal had on Monday August 14, 2023 reserved judgement on the matter following the DGRSWLRQ RI WKHLU ÀQDO ZULWWHQ addresses by the petitioners, urging the tribunal to nullify Kalu’s mandate.

7KH SHWLWLRQ ÀOHG E\ $$ ZDV

‘Ex-Gov Emmanuel Not Keeping Official Jet of A’Ibom Govt’ Okon Bassey in Uyo

in Uyo yesterday also carpeted critics of the current governor, The Senior Special Assistant Mr. Umo Eno, over his patronto the Akwa Ibom State age of the state owned airline, Governor on Research and Ibom Air. He explained that Governor Documentation, Mr. Essien Ndueso, has said that the Eno is living up to his promises immediate past governor of of encouraging Akwa Ibom the state, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, State Government’s investments ZDV QRW NHHSLQJ WKH R΀FLDO to thrive and expand to meet governor’s jet of the state since up the demands of the present economic realities in the country.

OHDYLQJ R΀FH This, he said, was one of the Ndueso, who disclosed this

reasons the governor used the state-owned airline, Ibom Air, GXULQJ KLV UHFHQW WULS IRU R΀FLDO engagements outside the state.

Ndueso was reacting to a series of negative criticisms trailing the decision by the governor to patronise the state owned air carrier, saying it was rather unfortunate that the good intention of the governor, in KDYLQJ ÀUVWKDQG H[SHULHQFH with the state airline, was

growth of students.

“The training methodology is designed to be interactive, engaging, and practical. Participants will delve into real-life scenarios, case studies, and group discussions related to school observations and teaching practices. This hands-on approach ensures that participants can seamlessly integrate gender equality and inclusion principles into their everyday roles.

“The two-day training program will take place through in-person workshops, offering an immersive learning experience from 9 am to 4 pm. The British Council’s commitment to fostering lasting change is reflected in the program’s comprehensive curriculum and delivery approach.

“By equipping school inspectors and teacher mentors with gendersensitive and inclusive training, the British Council’s Schools Connect Programme is poised to revolutionize education in Lagos State. The integration of gender equality and inclusion principles into school inspections and teacher mentoring promises to catalyse professional growth, elevate teaching practices, and contribute to an education system that empowers every student to thrive.

Mbah Orders Immediate Rehabilitation of NYSC Camp

In a major face-lift of the dilapidated National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) permanent orientation camp in Enugu State, the state governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has ordered the immediate rehabilitation of the camp with modern facilities and other social amenities, including the drilling of two industrial boreholes to enable access to clean water, rehabilitation of the road linking the camp to on the ground that the party logo Awgu town, rehabilitation of and the name of its candidate toilet facilities and roof leakage were excluded by INEC on the remedial works, among others.

The governor, who disclosed ballot papers and the forms in which votes scored by this at Awgu Town while declaring open the 2023 Batch “B” Stream candidates were recorded.

But in a surprise move, the 2 Orientation Course yesterday, AA candidate, Ifeanyi Chuk- also approved the sum of N5 wuka Igbokwe has gone on million as additional funding for radio to deny knowledge of the feeding of the corps members the petition marked EPT/ AB/ who would be undergoing series REP/17/2023, in which he was of trainings and courses for the OLVWHG DV WKH ÀUVW SHWLWLRQHU DQG next three weeks at the camp.

Governor Mbah, who was his party the second petitioner.

In the radio programme, represented by the Secretary to monitored in Umuahia, the State Government (SSG), Igbokwe expressed shock Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, said the that his name appeared scheme would, in addition to the in the petition seeking to upturn Kalu’s mandate and consequently crash his position as deputy speaker.

He said: “I was at home drinking my tea and watching the news until someone called Nigeria’s leading CSD brand me to inform me that I had a 7Up, has announced Miss Oreocase in court against the Deputy luwa Agunbiade as the recipient Speaker, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu. of the 7Up Harvard Business School (HBS) MBA Scholarship for 2023/2024 session.

Agunbiade becomes the 13th winner of the scholarship which was instituted in being negated.

2010. The fully funded MBA The governor’s senior aide scholarship at the prestigious who hailed Governor Eno Harvard Business School, Boston, for being down to earth in Massachusetts, United States, is his leadership style since he awarded each year by Seven-Up DVVXPHG R΀FH RQ 0D\ Bottling Company to a Nigerian reminded critics that the gov- resident in Nigeria who must ernor had during his campaign have been admitted to HBS for tour promised that he would an MBA programme but unable RFFDVLRQDOO\ EH Á\LQJ ,ERP $LU to fund it. to have the same experience The scholarship award goes as every other passenger, to through a thorough and rigorguide his decision making. ous competitive process until a

Over 3.5m Displaced by AA Candidate Disowns Petition Seeking to Crisis in Nigeria, Says UN Nullify Deputy Speaker, Kalu’s Mandate Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The British Council has launched a transformative two-day training programme aimed at enhancing gender equality and inclusion within the education system.

Developed under the Schools Connect Programme, this comprehensive training is tailored for school inspectors and teacher mentors in Lagos State, Nigeria.

The British Council said in a statement yesterday: “Gender equality and inclusion are not just ideals; they are fundamental principles that underpin a thriving learning environment. School inspectors and teacher mentors, as key players in shaping educational practices and nurturing educators, hold the power to create a more enriching and equitable classroom experience for all students.

“The primary objective of this training initiative is to equip school inspectors and teacher mentors with the necessary knowledge and skills to champion gender equality and foster inclusion within the educational framework. By providing participants with essential tools, strategies, and insights, this training aims to identify and tackle gender disparities, biases, and discriminatory practices that hinder the academic and personal

infrastructural rehabilitation, receive a donation of transformers from the state even as he added that directive had been given for the clearing of 6 kilometres power line through Awgu, Mmaku, Obeagu to Achi community in Oji River as a way of restoring power to the camp.

“To ensure that you have access to a conducive and safe environment throughout your stay in Enugu State, I have approved a sum of N5 million to be utilised as additional funding for your feeding on camp and also approved the following; transformer to be powered today; work done to restore power incudes: clearing of 6km power line through Awgu, Mmaku, Obeagu to Achi.

Changing of pot insulators, broken cross arms and sanitising of the line: Construction of 2 industrial boreholes for adequate water supply; rehabilitation of toilet facilities; roof leakage remedial works; access road rehabilitation; overhead water tank/stanchions,” he said.

Agunbiade Emerges 13th Recipient of 7Up Harvard Business School Scholarship winner is selected based on the set criteria by the management of Seven Up Bottling Company.

Ms Agunbiade, a lawyerturned management consultant was unveiled at an inspiring FHUHPRQ\ DW 6%&·V KHDG R΀FH in Ijora, Lagos.

Mr. Norden Thurston, SBC’s Chief Marketing Director explained that the 7Up Harvard Business School Scholarship was launched in 2010 by the Chairman of SBC, Mr. Faysal El-Khalil, in commemorating the 50th anniversary of the business based on his passion to raise and inspire a generation of young Nigerian leaders by leveraging quality global education that breeds and equips them with the right mindset.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 19, 2023

10

NEWS

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PMI Identifies Catalysts for Climate Progress Mary Nnah

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Pa Ehiosun for Burial Today Chief Ambrose Amare Ehiosun, the Odionwele of Idumugha Okaigben Ewohimi in Edo State who died at the ripe age of 92 years will be buried today, August 19.

According to a statement issued by the family of the late community leader, the rites kicked off with a wake at his Ambrose Ehiosun residence, besides Ofori Market Square in Idumugha Okaigben Ewohimi in Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State on Tuesday. It was followed by a lying-in-state and by a church service yesterday. A reception for invited guests holds today at the same venue.

An outing service will round off the burial ceremony tomorrow. He was survived by children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Amongst some of his in-laws is Otunba Kayode AshiwajuEhiosun Dada.

SATURDAY AUGUST 19, 2023 • T H I S D AY

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AUGUST 19, 2023 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

ѓџќяђюѡDZȱ ђѡѤђђћȱ ѦџіѐѠȱ ћёȱ ђљќёѦ

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Doris Amaka Ochei votes for the lyrical content in any work, irrespective of genre

ȱ¢ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ě ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ Ȭ ȱ ¡ ǯȱ ǰȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ £ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ ȱ ȱ ¢ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ ȱ ǰȱ stands.

The question therefore, is: what makes a musical work everlasting or ageless? Is it lyrics or melody? For me, I will vote anytime and any day, for the lyrical content in any work, irrespective of genre.

It is therefore very important for creatives to create and produce with good and edifying words, bearing in mind, that lyrics give either good or bad effect to the listener. And for children particularly, the damage of debauched or depraved lyrics is always damaging and sometimes, irreversible. But this reality does not in any way, discountenance the fact that music could also be greatly enjoyed without words. Understandably, this appeal of wordless musical works or creations which was prevalent in the classical era, cuts across age, gender, religion, race and language.

Whichever way, music remains one of the most important and powerful things in many lives, both in Nigeria and outside. This universality of thoughts and feelings, make music broad and seductive.

Growing up, I remember music was a major staple, and as young people in those days, we were attentive to the lyrical content of every song. As a matter of fact, we appreciated musical works, both locally and internationally, on the basis of lyrics. But we were also lucky because there were no instances of extremely lascivious or lewd lyrics, a trend that is today, part and parcel of most music productions.

Regrettably, vulgar lyrics fuel social vices, dislocation and violence in today’s world.

In spite of all the willful distortions in the world of music today, I still love music, and anyone that follows me on social media can attest to this fact. But the music that I know, I must say, is the soul of my life. This kind of music I talk about gleefully, is like the blood that runs in the body. Music generally, is meant to inspire people, send useful messages, correct societal ills, heal people in difficult times and lift spirits.

Therefore, for me, music is life; and this is demonstrable. Many of us who love music, know that it improves health and wellbeing.

And it is interesting also to note that music and its effects on man, remain a fascinating research area for musicologist, psychologists, sociologists, philosophers and scholars in different areas of study.

For instance, in 2019, a comprehensive research with the title: Using Music to Tune the Heart, and carried out by Harvard University in the United States of America, revealed that music can lower blood pressure and heart rate. Further investigations also showed that music can improve mood, lessen anxiety, inspire both

THE MUSIC THAT I KNOW, I MUST SAY, IS THE SOUL OF MY LIFE. THIS KIND OF MUSIC I TALK ABOUT GLEEFULLY, IS LIKE THE BLOOD THAT RUNS IN THE BODY. MUSIC GENERALLY, IS MEANT TO INSPIRE PEOPLE, SEND USEFUL MESSAGES, CORRECT SOCIETAL ILLS, HEAL PEOPLE IN DIFFICULT TIMES AND LIFT SPIRITS

the young and the old, reduce loneliness and prolong life. Memory, science and technology can also benefit immensely from musical notes.

So, beyond bringing people together for social, cultural and entertainment purposes, music does so many other important things, including helping people to live a meaningful life. In fact, with music, one can accurately predict the personalities and preferences of even a stranger. That is why we cannot afford to leave music unregulated or uncontrolled.

Unfortunately, some of today’s music is off-putting, wild and nauseating. And we must not forget that the decadence we see today draws substantially from our indifference and our happygo-lucky attitude which is directly linked to what we allow in our society.

Therefore, the elders of today must tell our high-flying and impatient Afrobeat superstars and producers that music is also a tool for education, solidarity, revival and romance. For instance, back in the day, if a man wanted to be noticed by a woman, he can actually capture her attention with his musical taste and preferences. Again, it is easy to spot the difference between Hello, Is It Me You’re Looking For?, a classic by Lionel Richie, and Nobi You I Carry Come, But Na You I go Carry Go, a locally produced work that many Nigerians still consider lecherous because of the song’s unnecessary sexual, condescending and rude nature.

Who still remembers Onyeka Onwenu and King Sunny Ade’s collaborative album: Wait for Me of 1989, a hit song that encourages good behavior among teenagers? Or Time Na Money, Mike Okri’s definitive work that celebrates diligence and hard work.

This is exactly what music should do; it is also the best way to go at a time like this. But this road that is less travelled, is a tall order in the music industry, and we all know. After all, many artistes thrive in their music careers these days because immorality sells. This ugly situation has been further compounded by some vulgar music videos that seem to celebrate nudity and the worst of us as Africans. Given the situation in the world of music today in Nigeria, I think everyone: parents, government, religious leaders, non-profit organizations, older musicians, forward-looking young people and regulatory bodies, should be worried. And everyone must get involved.

From every indication, it appears many Nigerians are on the same page on this. It is also obvious that we all seem to agree that we’ve got to bell the cat. But where are the volunteers for this all-important assignment, and how do we begin? This is clearly a race against time, but we must surely begin, in spite of all the constraints.

All over the world, regulatory bodies are established, empowered and respected as public authorities because of the key roles they play in the society. And regulatory institutions are not just agents of change, they are also purveyors of business growth, economic development and stability. I am not sure many Nigerians know that the Nigerian Copyright Commission,( NCC) regulates the music industry. There is also another body, the National Film and Videos Censors Board, (NFVCB) that regulates movies, entertainment and related show businesses across Nigeria. NFVCB also classifies and registers all films and video outlets in Nigeria.

Dr. Ochei, a Business Development Coach and Gender Advocate writes from Lagos.

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Strong local journalism builds social cohesion and encourages political participation, argues IIfeanyi Igwebike Mbanefo

long worn-out joke about Anambra State is that book people (euphemism for the Ǽȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ě ¢Dzȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ¡ ȱ ȱ book concepts.

It’s a tired jab at a state that has taken more than its share of punches for its seemingly intractable financial, political and security troubles for electing highly educated leaders to office.

The impactful leaders have been uneducated street smarts who seem to have made mind boggling fortunes. These are people who have controlled the state and its elected, educated governors. They are the godfathers, powers behind the throne.

Truth be told, educated leaders from Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju to Prof. Charles Soludo, have disappointed in many respects. Luckily, the state seems to be on the mend, even as it continues to travel treacherous, fragile, and delicate path to recovery.

There were no smoking guns for the collapse of the state besides bad leadership occasioned by ignorant and egoistical politicians. And yes, ignorant followers. American cerebral comedian, George Carlin said: “If you have selfish, ignorant citizens, you are gonna get selfish, ignorant leaders.” Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s order for the closure of the state-owned newspaper, The National Light, in August 2023 may have unintended consequences including the reversal of current progress.

This note is an appeal to save this newspaper and Anambra State. The question is why this interest in a state newspaper? The simple and

straightforward answer is why not? But I need to say more to drive home the need and urgency for well-meaning persons to intervene. The National Light should be saved: Because local journalism uncovers widespread and unreported abuses, prompts government officials to take action and often, give voice to the forgotten, the closure of this legacy newspaper will be an undeniable blow to the state’s news, social and political ecosystem.

Because when people read news about their neighborhoods, schools and municipal services, they think like locals, when they read about national political conflict, they think like partisans.

Because local coverage allows readers to actively participate in the selection of the Igwe, the formation of his cabinet (Ndi Ichie), the election of the Presidents-General of their town union, fight over local taxes and rates and waste disposal, rents and property taxes in their town rather than the latest Supreme Court judgement or political battles between Atiku and Jagaban.

Sadly, bad government — defined by corruption, failed promises, hypocrisy and dishonesty — exists far too much in South East Nigeria. And that makes good dogged journalism, especially at a local level, more critically important than ever.

Imagine if we had a robust local journalism, then, perhaps, we would have read everything there is to know about unknown gunmen, their footprints and collaborators. Local reporting would have uncovered all their malfeasance, since it is a local phenomenon.

Because local journalism is where accountability journalism matters most. It is focused on how

money is spent and how priorities are set on the local level. It is often that base level reporting that becomes the seed corn for bigger national stories with datelines from the heartland and the suburbs.

Because abundant research has found that strong local journalism builds social cohesion, encourages political participation, and improves the efficiency and decision-making of local and state government.

Because it is vital to democratic society.

Accurate, trustworthy reporting on local councils, courts and other public bodies enables people to hold those in power to account for decisions that affect their everyday lives; help people to feel connected and get involved with their communities; increase turnout at elections, create economic value by encouraging people to buy local, and foster a sense of cohesion and pride of place.

And because the absence of local journalism affects civic engagement and promotes political polarization. Studies show that people who live in areas with poor local news coverage are less likely to vote, and when they do, they are more likely to do so strictly along party lines.

I am well aware that like other state and national and even privately owned newspapers, The National Light, does not have a healthy balance sheet. And it should, after all it is business.

However, the absence of a healthy balance sheet does not explain the nature of the paper’s crisis. Ignore the government’s propaganda, the newspaper does not have a revenue problem. The correct prognosis will show that it has a culture problem. And as Peter Drucker, the legendary management consultant said, culture eats strategy

for breakfast, meaning that a wrong culture is a stage four cancer. It will kill its host unless a miracle happens.

A media run as a parastatal of government, devoted entirely to the service of the governor and his acolytes; that shuts out opposition and is not allowed to publish or criticize the authorities, cannot be expected to turn profit. Especially when profit making was not one of the aims for setting it up. Which other parastatal is making profit in the state or in the country as a whole?

Wrong diagnosis leads to wrong disease management. The decision to shut The Light Newspaper is symptomatic of the government’s faulty analysis and decision-making process which grants the people the opportunity to participate in consultation, but not in decision making.

Take for example the insecurity problems occasioned by gang wars, unknown gunmen, separatists and other local terrorists. Instead of the current arms buildup and traumatizing show of force, the government can easily deescalate the tension by applying through the courts for geo-fence warrants (also known as a geofence warrant or a reverse location warrant) to obtain all active mobile devices in every crime scene within approximate time of crime thus enabling it have the particulars of all actors and witnesses in one fell-swoop. This is a sure-fire way to combat crime; the data obtained would be useful in solving crimes and unmasking criminals. More and more governments are adopting this procedure.

Google received 982 of the warrants in 2018. By 2020, that number skyrocketed to 11,554.

Mbanefo writes from Onitsha, Anambra

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INSIGHT

Who is in charge?

How Oyekunle Uses Football to Build Journalists

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any Nigerian journalists throw parties whenever they are tapped as chief press secretary or appointed a media aide to a politician. Apart from the late Samuel Ibiyemi of NewsDirect newspapers, Segun Osoba, Rueben Abati and the former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who took the gauntlet and made a foray in the turbulent waters of politics, I know of no other who have applied their reportorial goodwill for ȱ Ĝ ǯȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ often cut a deprived picture and have been conditioned to be unambitious – we work under very irregular circumstances, most times at the risk of our lives. To survive under such irregular circumstances working like soldiers, nurses and doctors…and sometimes like slaves, a journalist would most times not hesitate to throw a colleague under the bus and run him down even when his own interests are not threatened. If there are opportunities for growth and development, basic instincts driven by tribe, ego, and pecuniary considerations often take over. I remember very vividly one of them who took my name and potential to favour one of those he considered loyal to him. Concerning this last statement though, my former editors at TELL Magazine - Onome Osifo-Whiskey, Nosa Igiebor, and others were an exception. They took the high ground, and exposed most of us to local and international opportunities for professional development.

Today, I have an example of one in the mold of these TELL editors. His name is Mr Jide Oyekunle, current correspondents’ chairman in the FCT. Before ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ě ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ of many wannabes in the industry. Even though I have nearly a three-decade experience, with nearly 500 articles to my name, two degrees in English, certain elements in the industry often question my credentials.

Things have changed a wee bit. Shortly after he was elected chairman of FCT correspondents, Mr Jide Oyekunle organised a football competition, as part of his program to use sports to build the professional and physical capacity of journalists. There was going to be a match between the Correspondents’ chapel of the NUJ, and the Nigeria Medical Association. The coach to take our players was not around, and I basically just stepped in. I know a thing or two about football, and I guess this was from being an avid follower of the Premier League from the early 80s before Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United became famous. My heroes then were

Kenny Daglish the Celtic forward, Kevin Keegan of Southampton and Newcastle, Trevor Francis ȱ Ĵ ȱ ǰȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ Whilst working as editorial assistant and columnist with Daily Independent circa 2004 to 2006, I played ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ę ǯȱ ȱ Managing Editor, Ted Iwere was a football lover, and I had Daniel Alabra for team capo. Therefore, the opportunity to groom these young ones was not one I was going to let slide.

I began to take our boys through the tiki and taka – to take the ball, pass it and advance towards the goal. With Mr Oyekunle’s strong support, our boys recently gave a good showing of their potential at the just-concluded three-day football tourney, August 3 – 5, 2023, by beating the NBA. The tourney had the Nigeria Police, the Federal Road Safety Corps, the National Orientation Agency, the Nigeria Medical Association, and the Nigeria Bar Association.

There were three takeaways for me from the FCT football tournament: one, even though the correspondents’ chapel of the NUJ did not have a subvention or impress with which to organise the tournament, Mr Oyekunle raised funds to run the show.

Bob MajiriOghene Etemiku, coach, FCT Correspondents Football Team

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The Wait Is Now Over

resident Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on August ŗŜ ǰȱŘŖŘřǰȱę ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ screened ministerial nominees, commencing the process for the implementation of the development agenda of the new government.

Overall, there seems to be a widespread feeling that the list is unreservedly marvelous in all its incarnations that it would take a fool, madman, or uniformed to raise any objections to it.

Yet, one area that has elicited negative opinions and comments is the sports ministerial nominee, Sen. John Owan Enoh. Sports experts and enthusiasts seem to find the choice of the sports minister unsettling. They are simply dazed or confused by the President’s choice.

They argue, in part, that he is bereft of the requisite knowledge to administer over sports in the country, given his core area of expertise, agriculture. Yet, the president has made his choice. He has the prerogative, as per Section 147 of the Constitution, to appoint ministers and has exercised same, rightly or wrongly.

There is now the need for the new minister to set out a clear roadmap as to how he plans to run the ministry, with a view to assuage the

T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU 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 DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, 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

concerns that have greeted his appointment.

First, the minister would need to be inclined and open to learning the rudiments of sports administration.

Secondly, he would need to understand that nobody is an island of knowledge. Such a move would involve him recruiting a robust team of competent advisers, with proven track records of sports administration who will assist him in running the ministry. Finally, the minister would need to ensure proper corporation with all the different salient sports stakeholders, as a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.

Such a move would involve giving all sports stakeholders a seat on the table, as partners in the overall sports development process, and as knights in armour linking arms in cooperation to wrench the wheel of sports in Nigeria to a more favorable territory.

Kesiena Igho Oghoghorie is an Abuja -based Lawyer, Sports Policy & Development Expert

Self Service or No Service?

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am old enough to remember when there was personal service, where someone spoke to you and actually knew your name. This is rare now ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ě ȱ shops. A recent trip to a large hardware company met only self-service lanes with the personal service lane closed although I was told I could get personal service via the gardening exit.

A later trip to the major food supermarket met at least a dozen self service bays, but two personal service lanes with full trolleys being served and even fuller trolleys queued up. The 15 items or less lanes have become zero lanes. I gave up waiting and left frustrated.

These are only the two most recent examples of the declining personal service and the rise of automation. Beware the robots ‘serving’ us as it will only be a short step to them deciding what we should buy, the low sugar version, the cheaper no brand version although they will still be instructed to sell cigarettes as they are so profitable.

As one famous robot said, “I’ll be back”, well I won’t be if there is no personal service.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 19, 2023

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Yemi

Adebowale

yemi.adebowale@thisdaylive.com

Terrorists Still Roaming Unhindered

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errorists control almost the entire Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State. They run a government of their own and this has been on for almost seven years.

Communities in this area are in shambles because of the activities of these criminals. Many can no longer go to their farms. Some frustrated residents have relocated. Efforts by the military to recover the Nigerian territory last Sunday ended in a heartbreak. The terrorists, obviously with better intelligence, ambushed Nigerian soldiers, killing no fewer than 25 of them.

Sadly, a military helicopter that went to evacuate dead and injured soldiers crashed, killing another 11 soldiers. It is shocking that the military, in this modern era, embarked on the mission without air coverage. What about the military armoured attack helicopters that would have been useful for this kind of mission? Well, I will return to this later.

The truth that must be told is that nothing has changed regarding carnages nationwide, almost three months after Bola Tinubu assumed office as President. Terrorists are still roaming unhindered across beloved Nigeria, killing and maiming innocent countrymen.

In this same Niger State, terrorists dominate three other local government areas - Shiroro, Munya and Wushishi. Tinubu’s promise to tackle deteriorating insecurity inherited from calamity Muhammadu Buhari and reform Nigeria’s “security doctrine and its architecture” is fast turning into a ruse.

He said security shall top the priority of his administration “because neither prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity and violence.” Honestly, I have not seen any reform in this country’s security doctrine and architecture in the last eighty days.

The only thing we have seen is the sack of service chiefs and appointment of new ones. Yes, Tinubu was quick to mourn the soldiers killed in the catastrophic Rafi

Yes, Tinubu was quick to mourn the soldiers killed in the catastrophic Rafi operation, but he has to go beyond this in line with the leadership expected of him as Commander-in-Chief. This is not what he promised Nigerians in terms of security. The era of issuing rubbish condolence messages after killings by terrorists as exemplified by former president Buhari must end. Tinubu has to provide a leadership that will swiftly end the slaughtering (daily) of innocent Nigerians across our cities, towns and villages. This is the meaning of effective leadership. It is what it means to be Commander-in-Chief operation, but he has to go beyond this in line with the leadership expected of him as Commander-in-Chief. This is not what he promised Nigerians in terms of security. The era of issuing rubbish condolence messages after killings by terrorists as exemplified by former president Buhari must end.

Tinubu has to provide a leadership that will swiftly end the slaughtering (daily) of innocent Nigerians across our cities, towns and villages. This is the meaning of effective leadership. It is what it means to be Commander-in-Chief.

Is Tinubu even aware that he has spent 81 days as President? In the last 81 days, terrorists have slayed no fewer than 1000 innocent Nigerians. These are just the reported cases. A comprehensive count will reveal

higher figures. Plateau, Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Niger and Kaduna states are the biggest killing fields. Three weeks back, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, was in Plateau State with a promise that things will change. Nothing changed.

Eight local government areas are under the servitude of terrorists in Plateau State.

Nine days back, the terrorists struck in Heipang, Barakin-Ladi LGA, killing no fewer than 21 people, mostly women and children. A man identified as Dung Mark, his wife, and three children were among those killed.

The terrorists controlling Mangu LGA of Plateau State struck in Nchya village on August 7. No fewer than 10 people were killed during the attack and many injured.

Prickly Tales about Nigeria’s Petrol Price

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he Presidency was back this week to again lecture Nigerians that our petrol is still the cheapest in West Africa. The focus of the sermon is that Nigerians should be happy paying between “just” N568 and N630 for a litre of petrol. President Tinubu approved that the chart containing prices of PMS in other countries be transmitted to Nigerians to show that ours is the cheapest among the West African countries.

The Presidency lectured: “In the graphic, what you will find is the present cost of refined Premium Motor Spirit at the pump in each of the West African nations that border us and I’ll just name some for example...

Senegal at pump price today is N1,273 per litre; Guinea at N1,075 per litre, Côte d’ Ivore at N1,048 per litre, Mali N1,113 per litre, Central African Republic N1,414 per litre, Nigeria is presently averaging between N568 and N630 per litre.”

First, the Presidency needs to be reminded that petrol selling between N568 and N630 per litre in Nigeria is not “cheap” in relation to the incomes of many of us. Minimum wage is still a paltry N30,000. Nigerians are at present challenged by the cost of transportation or fueling vehicles to places of work that is higher than their incomes. When a man’s salary cannot cover his cost of transportation to work, that man is finished. This is why some state governments and agencies asked their workers to reduce coming to work to three days in a week. So, how can the Tinubu government say that petrol is cheap at N630 per litre? This is preposterous.

The effect of the massive rise in petrol price has also led to huge increases in the prices of goods and services across beloved Nigeria. Inflation is now over 24 percent.

So, the incomes of majority of workers in this country have been eroded. Many can no longer breathe. A bag of local rice is now between N45,000 and N50,000. Prices of other staple foods like maize, millet, beans, sorghum have quadrupled. This is the effect of the “cheap petrol” we are buying in Nigeria.

Nigeria does not belong to the club of the West African countries listed in this sermon on cheap petrol in Nigeria. All these countries are not producers of crude oil. This is one fact those behind “Nigeria’s petrol is cheapest” campaign are running away from. Nigerians ought to be enjoying the dividends of producing crude oil in terms of lower price of petroleum products. Research

by TheCable on the price of petrol in other countries published on July 24, revealed that petrol is selling at a price lower than that of Nigeria in many crude oil producing countries. TheCable used statistics from Globalpetrolprices, a global market leader known for tracking the retail prices of motor fuel, electricity, and natural gas in over 150 countries.

For this report, the exchange rate used

by TheCable was $1/ N781.85, based on the closing rate of the I & E forex window of the Central Bank of Nigeria as of July 24, 2023. It revealed the price of petrol in the following oil producing countries as follows: Algeria N265; Kuwait N267; Angola N284; Iraq N448; Qatar N451; Russia N460; and Saudi Arabia N485. All these oil producing countries sell petrol at a price lower than that of Nigeria. Those pushing out “Nigeria’s petrol is cheapest” narratives pretend to be unaware.

Another thing revealed by TheCable’s research is that as at July 24, 19 countries sell petrol below the N568 pump price in

Kyari

Lagos. Some of the countries are Algeria N265, Egypt N290, Turkmenistan N335, Malaysia N350, Kazakhstan N381, Bahrain N415, Bolivia N423, Iraq N448, Azerbaijan N459, Oman N485, Ecuador N495.

The “Nigeria petrol is cheapest” propagandist have also failed to admit that there is so much pain, so much suffering in all the West African countries where petrol is selling at a very high price. The high cost of petrol is largely responsible for the poverty in these West African countries. I guess this is the club Tinubu wants Nigerians to be members.

They also burnt scores of houses. Men of Operation Safe Haven were nowhere to be found while the killings lasted. Last May the terrorists attacked residents of 22 villages in Mangu and Riyom LGAs, killing no fewer than 140 people.

In Zamfara State, majority of the local government areas are dominated by terrorists.

They unleashed pain in Bungudu LGA last week, killing one person and kidnapping six others.

As I pen this piece, Abadam LGA, on the western coast of Lake Chad, remains a stronghold of terrorists. ISWAP has its headquarters at nearby Kamuya village, which is its largest camp in Lake Chad, about eight kilometres from Malam Fatori. All the previous attacks on Malam Fatori were launched from Kamuya, a village ISWAP has fortified with mines and heavy weapons.

The Nigerian military knows this. To destroy ISWAP, Kamuya must be taken.

Guzamala and Kukawa LGAs in Borno State are also dominated by Boko Haram and ISWAP. Gwoza and Chibok LGAs experience intermittent attacks.

Borno State, the epicenter of Boko Haram is clearly still bleeding. The blood stains across Borno represent the crux of the matter. Nine days ago, five persons were killed by Boko Haram during an attack on a convoy of vehicles carrying goods and passengers very close to the Nigeria-Cameroon border town of Banki. Seven women were abducted in that attack.

In the South-east, IPOB and ESN are still a menace. This nonsense must not continue.

A country that wants to increase production in the agricultural sector must efficiently tackle this raging insecurity. Unfortunately, I’m yet to see any seriousness in this direction as highlighted in the long list of killings above. I Just laughed when Tinubu in his July 31 address to the nation, talked about ensuring that staple foods are available and affordable to Nigerians, without addressing raging insecurity. He also said he was providing 225,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer, seedlings and other inputs to farmers who are committed to the food security agenda of his government. Where are the farmers Mr President is talking about? It seems he has forgotten that many farming communities in Zamfara, Borno, Katsina, Sokoto, Kaduna and Niger states are deserted because of unending killings by terrorists. Security agents that should be inhibiting the terrorists are not doing too well.

Tinubu must fix insecurity. He must fulfill the commitment he made to Nigerians in his May 29, 2023 inaugural address to frontally and courageously tackle insecurity.

Mr President must lead in coming up with a comprehensive and well-planned strategy to end the killings across the country. In this modern era, a good government should be talking about protecting its people with drones from a preemptive and properly staffed control centre. Use of drones for intelligence gathering and attacks is vital.

Technology, intelligence, quality equipment and quality manpower are modern necessities for taming terrorists. Our security agencies lack these. They obviously lack the capacity to effectively monitor the movement of terrorists.

This is why these guerrillas move around in hundreds undetected. Our gallant soldiers are doing their best but they need to be assisted to tame terrorism. So, this country needs help from climes that can provide these military necessities and manpower.

Nigeria needs to seek help from abroad.

A people-oriented government will seek help from anywhere to protect the people against terrorists. We should look towards Israel and Canada for this. A Canadian firm helping Ukraine in its war against Russian aggressors is doing a wonderful job. This is why Russia cannot infiltrate Ukraine.

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Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

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Genevieve Nnaji’s Return Excites Fans as Vacation Pictures Trend Ferdinand Ekechukwu

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he last time award-winning DFWUHVV DQG ÀOP maker Genevieve Nnaji made public appearance, amid rumors of mental health challenge, was in faraway Cote D’Ivoire during the November 2022 edition of the Creative African Nexus (CANEX), as one of the speakers at the event. ,W ZDV KHU ÀUVW LQ D ORQJ ZKLOH following pronounced absence from the social scene. The ‘Lionheart’ star has essentially embraced a discreet lifestyle and kept herself distant from social media for a considerable stretch, giving her colleagues a few reasons to worry.

Not a few in the industry had actually shown concern about her

whereabouts.

Fast-forward to Sunday July 13, 2023 the screen diva, renowned in Nollywood circles, emerged as snapshots of her summer vacation in Italy trend, ecstatically capturing the admiration of her seething fans and followers.

The photos posted by Nigerian supermodel, Oluchi Orlando have given her fans assurance that the movie star is back.

Beaming radiantly in the images, the enchanting Genevieve, a friend and the vivacious Oluchi, commanded attention, their bond radiates an intoxicating blend of DͿHFWLRQ DQG LQWLPDF\ &DSWLRQLQJ the clip, Oluchi wrote; “Summer 6HOÀH LV WRWDOO\ VXPPHULQJ ZLWK my Sis’s”. This comes a few days after Genevieve made headlines as H[HFXWLYH SURGXFHU RI D QHZ ÀOP project titled ‘I Do Not Come To You By Chance’.

Oluchi Orlandi, Genevieve, and Chinnycarter

Netflix Celebrates Trailblazers of Nollywood KaeStyle Teams up

with Leriq on New EP

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

A

plethora of stars in Nollywood made last Sunday evening vibrant and dazzling in their best looks as streaming JLDQW 1HWÁL[ SOD\HG host to an exceptional DͿDLU WLWOHG ¶/LJKWV &DPHUD«1DLMD · The remarkable soirée celebrated the shining stars with a theme that exuded ÁDPER\DQFH DQG JODPRXU HQFDSVXODWLQJ the essence of Nigerian culture.

Draped in elegance, most distinguished ÀJXUHV OLW XS WKH UHG FDUSHW LQIXVLQJ the gala with fascinating spectacle. Too QXPHURXV WR PHQWLRQ UHQRZQHG ÀJXUHV both young and old from the creative sector, and a host of other esteemed personalities, packed with splendor.

Hosted by the popular comedian and entertainer, Basketmouth, the evening showcased captivating performances by sensational artiste, Chike, accompanied by the electrifying presence of Nigeria’s Afro-House maven, Niniola. Adding to the auditory delight, renowned DJ Sose spun the music, creating an ambiance of euphoria and excitement.

1HWÁL[·V ¶/LJKWV &DPHUD«1DLMD· ZDV

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Ireti Doyle, Taiwo Ajayi-Lycett, RMD, and Kunle Afolayan at the ‘Light, Camera.. Naija!’ soiree

indeed a celebration of Nigerian stars, honouring the pioneers and trailblazers who paved the way for the industry’s growth, whilst recognising the outstand-

ing contributions of current talents who continue to captivate global audiences with compelling storytelling and performances.

Emerging Afro RnB star KaeStyle and Grammywinning producer Leriq have unveiled their collaborative project named ‘Asylum’, released via Keyqaad Records. Leriq, a highly esteemed producer with a longstanding collaboration history ZLWK %XUQD %R\ DQG RWKHU SURPLQHQW ÀJXUHV LQ afrobeats like Wizkid and Wande Coal, blends his distinct production style with KaeStyle’s strong vocals and street-smart lyricism. ¶$V\OXP· FRQVLVWLQJ RI ÀYH WUDFNV ZLWK OHDG single “21”, also serves as KaeStyle’s second EP, following the highly acclaimed ‘Kae’s Study’ that was released in October of the previous year, featuring collaborations with Victony and fellow KeyQaad label member Omah Lay. The project opens with “The Bag”.

Both Leriq and KaeStyle synergize their remarkable music talents as producers and songwriters to present a captivating fusion of afrobeats and R&B in this masterpiece, exploring themes of love, passion, hard work, and everything in between.

KaeStyle described the EP as not meant for everyone and emphasized the importance of catering to R&B enthusiasts like him, he said “This one is not for everyone, about time someone JRW GHÀDQW DQG IHG WKH 5 % IDQV OLNH P\VHOIµ

Femi Adebayo Defies Odds, Critics with Epic Movie German, Swiss Governments Support Tosin Clegg

W

ith a successful epic movie released last year, Femi Adebayo Salami is back again with another recordbreaking block buster, Jagun Jagun; The Warrior which is a 2023 Netflix original epic Yoruba film produced by Femi Adebayo Salami and Euphoria360 Media. Directorial credits goes to Adebayo Tijani and Tope Adebayo Salami as the film stars the power houses of Femi Adebayo, Adedimeji Lateef, Bimbo Ademoye, Faithia Balogun, Mr Macaroni, Bukunmi Oluwasina, Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, Ayo Ajewole, Yemi Elesho, Ganiu Nofiu, Lawal Ayisha and most importantly, Ibrahim Chatta.

Before its epic release on streaming platform, Netflix the producer, Femi Adebayo held a one of its kind premiere at the Imax Cinemas, Lekki on the 9th of August and had in attendance His Royal Majesty, Oba Alayeluwa Saheed Ademola Elegushi, Kusenla III, the cast of the movie, celebrities, industry heavyweights and movie enthusiasts.

Released officially on the 10th of August 2023, Jagun Jagun tells the story of a Warlord, Ogundiji played by Femi Adebayo who begins to feel threatened by the potential of a young warrior,

Gbotija played by Lateef Adedimeji whose main aim is to avenge the death of his father. Ogundiji has always been a dictator who has succeeded in snatching a lot of kingdoms but with a turn of events which didn’t sit with him he soon becomes threatened by the arrival of the young warrior, Gbotija leading him to take all kinds of measures to contain him.

Spanning across the fictional kingdoms of Ota Efon, Aje, Modede, Iwon and Larinle the movie served a cultural thrill displaying the beauty of tradition, culture, values and love but as the scenes unfolded it was clouded with drama, intrigue, suspense, action, blood and unexpected turns of events.

Femi Adebayo-Salami (right) with other stars during the premier of Jagun Jagun

Edo on Enina Theatre Festival

Tosin Clegg

T

he three day Enina Theatre Festival, with the theme “Performing Diversity, Staging Inclusiveness” is set to hold from August 25 to August 27, 2023 at the Victor Uwaifo Creative hub, Benin City, Edo State.

The state is poised to become a premiere platform for established and emerging talents in the world of theatre. The festival will transform Benin City into a vibrant hub of theatrical brilliance, celebrating creativity, diversity, and cultural exchange with a remarkable lineup of performances, workshops, and cultural experiences.

This maiden theatre festival, #ENINAFEST is organized by the Edo State Skills Development Agency- EDOJOBS with the support of the German Government and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation Implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)-SKYE programme.

The event will be hosted by Governor Godwin Obaseki with EDSOGPADEC, Azura-Edo, Olivia table waters, SuperFm 88.1FM Benin and Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Benin as partners.

The Managing Director of Edo State Skills Development Agency- Edojobs, Mrs Violet Obiokoro noted that the festival is being organized to promote creative skills development, especially in the area of theatre and would create over 1,000 short term job opportunities for youths in the state.

Obiokoro further emphasized the need to host this maiden eddition, which would showcase the rich cultural heritage of Edo State through the lens of culture, arts, tourism and talents to the creative economy and open more opportunities to create jobs for youths in the state.

The festival will feature, not only exceptional performances from various groups and troupes, but also a series of enriching workshops, networking opportunities and engaging panel discussions and rewarding conversations led by renowned theater practitioners and industry experts like Norbert young, Ossa Earliece, Don Pedro Agbonifo-Obaseki, Fadekemi Olumide-Aluko, Esther Onwuka, Israel Eboh, Ngozi Obigwe Kunuji.

These sessions will delve into various aspects of theater production, offering valuable insights into playwriting, directing, acting, and technical design. Participants will be able to learn from experienced professionals, expand their knowledge, and hone their skills in the theatrical arts.

18

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 19, 2023

TRIBUTE

Goodnight Oluwatoyin Oyemade, Our Sister and Mother Tunde Oyolola and Olabode Oyemade

I

t was still like a bad dream to us your family. Your sudden demise is shocking as we remain inconsolable. We are devastated, you were a bridge builder and a loving ‘Olori Ebi.’ We thought we would journey with you till the old age.

Well, who are we to question God. It is with heavy heart that we bade farewell to you.

Sleep well our loving, beautiful, fashionable, and woman of God who loved God and her family wholeheartedly.

Mrs. Oluwatoyin Kuburat Oyemade née Oyolola, was a remarkable woman whose life was a testament to love, dedication, and selflessness.

On Friday, August 18th, 2023, we, the Oyemade and Oyolola families bid farewell to a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. Though you may no longer be with us in the physical realm, your legacy of warmth and kindness will forever be etched in our hearts.

Born into the Yunusa Oyolola family from Abeokuta on May 18th, 1960, Mrs. Oyemade’s journey through life was one filled with purpose and determination. She began her educational journey at Our Lady of Lourdes Nursery Primary School in Ojuelegba, Lagos, where her thirst for knowledge and passion for learning were nurtured. She continued her education at Premier College and the College of Health Technology, Harvey Road, Yaba, where she horned her skills and prepared

Oluwatoyin Oyemade

for a career dedicated to serving others.

Mrs. Toyin Oyemade’s professional journey led her to the Lagos State General Hospital, Odan, where she worked as a Health Technician until her retirement. Her commitment to her work was unparalleled, and she touched the lives of countless individuals through her compassion and expertise. Her dedication

to the well-being of others was evident in every aspect of her life, and she approached her work with a genuine desire to make a difference.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mrs. Toyin Oyemade’s greatest joy and fulfillment came from her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a pillar of strength and love for her husband, children, grandchildren, friends and family. Her unwavering support and love were the foundation upon which her family thrived. Her children, and grandchildren were her pride and joy.

She was also a source of love and support for her siblings, friends and family members, she valued the bond of family and was always there to lend a helping hand or a listening ear.

Her presence brought comfort and reassurance, and her absence leaves a void that can never be filled.

As we mourn the loss of an amicable woman, let us also celebrate the beautiful life she lived. Let us remember her infectious laughter, her warm hugs, and her unwavering love. Let us carry forward her legacy of compassion, selflessness, and dedication to serving others. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory forever be a guiding light for all who knew her.

Eulogising her mother whom she described one in a million, her daughter, Tope OyemadeJob said she remains irreplaceable. “My mum was a prayer Warrior, she cared about everyone regardless of your affiliation with her. She was my best friend and confidant.

I find hard to refer to her in past tense. But

she would remain in my heart forever.

Praising her beauty and sense of fashion, Mrs Owodunni Munirat, her former colleague said, “My aunty was a very beautiful woman both inside and outside. Aunty Toyin was a caring mother who cared about everyone’s progress. Her fashion sense was too-notch.”

To Elizabeth Bola Oyolola, the late Oyemade was more than a sister-in-law because of her indiscriminatory nature. “Mommy was one of a kind. She was a model and an epitome of love, kindness, patience and compassion.

Mommy was more than a sister in-law to me.”

Extolling the virtue of his sister, Yusuf Oyolola said, “My sister was an amazing woman, gorgeous and fashionable, she never judged anyone and was compassionate.”

“Sister, the fruit of your hands will continue to work praise in your gates, we love you but God loves you more,’ Oti Caroline prayed for the deceased.

Another sister, Alhaja Idiat Sanni, said, “Aunty’mi Egba mo’lisabi! Omo gbongbo akala!

Omo erin jo’gunola! Mrs. Oluwatoyin kuburat Oyemade was my elder sister, we shared a very strong bond and connection. She was my gist partner and l will forever miss her.”

Rest in eternal peace, our dear sister and an amazing mother knowing that you are deeply loved and will be forever missed.

Mrs. Oluwatoyin Oyemade nèè Oyolola was laid to rest yesterday in Lagos but she remain unforgettable in our hearts.

Tunde Oyolola and Olabode Monsur Oyemade write from Lagos.

INTERVIEW

TAF Needs Strategic Partners to Make More Impact Jeffrey Adebayo, co-founder of Tamilore Areola Foundation (TAF), a charity-focused entity, speaks to THISDAY on what has been achieved in the organisation’s two years of existence and ways of sustainability

W

hatinspiredtheestablishmentofTAF,itsinclination towardscharity,entrepreneurshipandhealthcare?

ThecreationofTAFfinds itsoriginintheprofoundlife ofTamiloreAreolaherself.

TAF’smission,encompassingcharity,entrepreneurship,andhealthcareisadirectreflectionofthevalues sheembodied.Tamilore’slegacyisoneofselflessness andimpactfulaction.Shetouchedlivesthroughher actsofgiving,knowledgesharing,andcompassionate care. In establishing TAF, we endeavor to carry forward this legacy, guided by her strong faith and the principles she held dear. Our vision is fueled by a deepcommitmenttoserviceandcompassion,echoing Tamilore’sextraordinaryabilitytotransformlives.Our mission resonates with her actions: to replicate her impactthroughourfocusoncharity,entrepreneurship, andhealthcare.Inessence,TAFstandsasatributeto Tamilore’sremarkablelife,strivingtocreatealegacy of positive change that mirrors the values she held so dearly.

Inspecificterms,whatarethemajorachievements of TAF since its inception two years ago?

Wehavehadquiteanimpactfuljourney.Throughits charity pillar, TAF initiated its community outreach activitiesonTamilore’sposthumousbirthday,including feedingandgiftingover600individualsintheOworonshoki Community, Lagos, on 10 January 2022. One ofthewaysweoperateisthroughpartnershipsand collaborations.InJanuary,TAFcollaboratedwithThe SolidTeensandYouthInitiativestoextendsupportto theChildren’sCorrectionalCentreinMushin,Lagos.

Thiseffortincludedprovidingfood,clothing,books, and other essential items. Four teenagers from the centeraresettoattendtheannualnine-daySolidTeens campthismonth.Undertheentrepreneurshippillar, TAForganiseddiversecapacity-buildingworkshops.

Notably,aworkshopheldon25March2022,whichsaw twoparticipantsreceivegrantsofN100,000.00each fortheiroutstandingbusinessproposals.Atwo-day

Adebayo

fashionworkshopinJune2022facilitatedindustry insightsforparticipants,withtwoexceptionalindividualsreceivingsponsorshipforathree-monthcourse at a prominent Lagos fashion house.

Also, TAF’s Communications Drill, in November 2022, introduced young business owners to brand marketingandstorytelling.Notably,twoparticipants received scholarships for a masterclass with a renownedcommunicationsexpert.TAF’s“Startupto Scaleup,”organizedinApril2023,targetedstartup entrepreneursseekingupscalingguidance.Theevent featuredsessionsonethicalscalingandsocialmedia marketing,withtwoparticipantsreceivingbusiness grantsofN100,000.00each.Isinmi,TAF’shealthcare arm, provided N1million support to a 25-year-old cancer patient. The initiative also emphasized emotionalsupport,reflectingTamilore’sdedication toimprovedhealthcareinNigeria.Inovertwoyears, TAF’spartnershipswithdonors,volunteers,industry experts,SolidTeensandYouthInitiativesresultedin notablestridesinimpactingbuddingentrepreneurs, underprivileged communities and the infirm.

ISINMI’s focus is commendable. What is the process of identifying cancer patients to be assistedandhowdoyouplanto expandthisaspect of TAF’s work?

Weactivelyengagediversepartnersfromvarious fields, including medical professionals, academics, and beyond. This collaborative approach amplifies theimpactofourheartfeltproject,bringingtogether a multidisciplinary team committed to our shared vision. The selection process for beneficiaries is thorough and compassionate. We meticulously assess entries, ensuring candidates align with our criteria—cancer patients aged 25 and below.

Equally important, our values guide us. We extend our support beyond finances, reaching out to encompass their families, and creating a comprehensive network of care and assistance.

As we envision expansion, our goals are resolute.

Our past budget, while impactful, could only cover a single round of treatment. Looking ahead, we aim to bolster our budget, enabling us to provide comprehensive coverage for entire treatment regimens. This expansion is pivotal, allowing us to extend our reach to more patients in need and touching even more lives in our unwavering commitment to creating positive change.

What challenges does TAF face?

Resource constraints have not deterred us.

Instead, they motivate us to broaden our impact.

While individual donors have fueled our progress, we aspire to welcome corporate partnerships to ensure sustainability and broaden our reach.

Corporate engagement is a goal, but its pursuit has its own hurdles. With limited corporate involvement, the full potential of our initiatives remains untapped. Collaborating with like-minded entities will amplify our impact and enable us to touch more lives. Despite our successes, there’s roomtogrow.Asweexpandournetwork,resource limitationssometimeschallengeourambitions.Efficiencyremainsparamount.Balancingresourcesand impactarekeytoexecutingourmissioneffectively.

Howcanindividualsandorganizationsinterested in supporting TAF’s mission get involved?

Individualscanvolunteertheirtimeandalsomake donations. Corporate organizations are potential strategic partners. We’ve been fortunate to collaborate with partners in the past, and now, we’re seeking more like-minded collaborators to amplify ourimpact.Yourcontribution,whetherasavolunteer, donor,orstrategicpartner,holdsimmensepotential to drive positive change through TAF’s initiatives.

What inspired the idea for the Charity Golf tournament?

TheideafortheCharityGolfTournamentdrawsits inspirationfromTamilore’spersonalconnectionwith golf and the Ikeja Golf Club. In her formative years, Tamiloreactivelyparticipatedingolf,andherfather’s involvement in the Ikeja Golf Club community fostered numerous friendships. Notably, golfers played a significant role during TAF’s launch two years ago. This resonates deeply with our belief that the Charity Golf Tournament provides an ideal platformforpresentingthefoundation’sinitiatives.

Looking beyond the event, how does TAF plan to ensure the sustainability and continuity of its programmes in the years ahead?

Beyond the event, TAF is dedicated to securing the lasting sustainability of its programs in the coming years. We’ve meticulously outlined a roadmap encompassing immediate, medium, and long-term initiatives across all areas. Our commitment to this plan is unwavering. In line with this, we’re enhancing our organizational structure by augmenting the number of program officers. This strategic move is geared towards specialization in mobilization and implementation, ensuring that our programs are carried out effectively.Sustainabilityismorethanawordtous; it’sourguidingprinciple.Byadheringtoourroadmap andstrengtheningourteam,TAFispoisedtosecure the continued impact and growth of its programs well into the future.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 19, 2023

19

PERSPECTIVE

Niger: ECOWAS’ War and Peace Options Tunde Rahman

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re war and peace mutually exclusive? This is one important question that has dominated the attention of scholars and students in the area of conflict resolution across time and space.

The answer, however, varies with different schools of scholarship. For instance, one academic contends that both war and peace are mutually exclusive, as a nation cannot engage in warandpeaceatthesametimetoresolveaconflict withanothercountry.Counteringthatpostulation, another scholar argues that war and peace may be two distinctively different options in conflict resolution.However,preparingforwarandpreparingforpeacearenotmutuallyexclusive,statingthat the two can go hand in hand in resolving conflicts.

TheEconomicCommunityofWestAfricanStates seems to be lending credence to the latter thesis in their response to the July 26, 2023 coup in Niger Republic,acountryofaround26millionpeople.Four days after the coup, ECOWAS Chairman, Nigeria’s PresidentBolaTinubu,summonedanextraordinary summit of Heads of State and Government on the crisis, and in their resolution, the leaders issued a 7-day ultimatum to the Nigerien junta to end the coup. Realising that the situation had not changed in that country even at the expiration of that ultimatum, the West African leaders, in an emergency summitonAugust10,restatedtheirdemandforthe reinstatementofthedeposedPresidentMohamed Bazoum. However, this time they activated the standby force for possible intervention in Niger, saying all options are on the table including ‘use of force as a last resort’.

IndanglingbothwarandpeaceoptionstotheNiger military,theregionalleaderswerebentonrestoring constitutional order in Niger and ensuring that a final end is put to the macabre dance of coupists around the Sahel region. Although they are playing up the two cards in resolving the crisis, it would appear most of the ECOWAS leaders including its Chairman, President Tinubu, actually prefer that the Niger impasse is resolved through peaceful means as war is an ill wind that blows no good. As the popular saying goes: it’s only the beginning of a war that can be determined; no one can predict its end.

Amidtheslammingofsanctionsonthosepreventing the return to power of democratically elected President Bazoum and ECOWAS Defence Chiefs’ declaration on Thursday in Ghana that it was ready todeploystandbyforceinNigerifdiplomacyfails,a peacefulresolutionofthecrisisremainsattractive.

This is not implying that the usurpers in Niger have not been recalcitrant. While the ECOWAS leaders were still considering the options open to them in the light of the crisis, General Tchiani had swiftly and defiantly moved to form his government, apparently to force the regional leaders into seeing it as a full-fledged regime and thus a fait accompli.

During the week also, he dispatched the civilian PrimeMinisterheappointed,AliMahamanLamine Zeine, to Chad for talks. The latest is the ill-advised plan to slam the deposed President Bazoum with treason charges.

However, there is no gainsaying the fact that war will come at a heavy cost. War in Niger will further deepen poverty in a country that presently has about41percentofitspopulationlivinginextreme poverty, destabilise the Sahel region and throw up a refugee situation that may not spare her neighbours particularly Nigeria.

It is important to note that the United States of America and France have military bases in Niger. In theeventofwar,thesecountries’troopsmayplunge in, thus throwing external forces into the conflict with disastrous and unpredictable consequences.

Also, if caution and restraint are not applied, Niger could go the way of Mali whose leaders hired mercenaries from Russia’s Wagner Group to help fight an insurgency after they overthrew the democratic government three years ago and kicked out the French troops. Indeed, support for Russia has appeared to surge in Niger since after the coup with supporters of the junta waving the Russian flag at several rallies.

It is perhaps because war may bring unintended consequencesthatsomehaveactivatedthepeace option. In Nigeria, a group of prominent Islamic scholars christened Intervention Team had met PresidentTinubuseekinghisapprovalfortheteam

Bazo Ba Bazoum zoum um

democrat who put his life on the Given Niger’s close historical relations and close acknowledged line along with other other pro-democratic forces in fighting for the dislodging of military dictatorin Nigeria. His commitment to democratic FXOWXUDO DIÀQLW\ ZLWK 1LJHULD 3UHVLGHQW 7LQXEX ship developmentandsustainabilityinWestAfricaand the continent is thus understandable QDWXUDOO\ GHVLUHV WKDW WKH GHPRFUDWLF FXOWXUH throughout and commendable. It is instructive that when he leaders of the African Union at their PXVW EH FRQWLQXRXVO\ GHHSHQHG LQ ERWK FRXQ- addressed last meeting in Kenya, President Tinubu stressed the importance of deepening democracy in Africa ensuring that the culture of coups becomes a WULHV LQ WKH EHVW LQWHUHVW RI WKHLU FLWL]HQV +H EH- and thing of the past. This, he argued, is the best way to goodgovernancewhichwillguaranteethat OLHYHV WKDW HYHU\WKLQJ PXVW EH GRQH WR DYRLG ZDU ensure the kind of exploitative ‘scramble for Africa’ which destructive consequences for the continent EHWZHHQ ERWK FRXQWULHV DV WKLV ZLOO KDYH QR SRVL- had in the past never happens again.

It is also important to note that the strong opof ECOWAS leaders to the coup in Niger WLYH LPSOLFDWLRQV IRU HLWKHU RI WKH WRR DQG WKLV LV position is also indirectly a clear signal to other military in the region that there is ultimately no WKH EDVLV IRU KLV SUR GLDORJXH SRVWXUH regimes alternative to the institutionalization of democto mediate in the crisis. The President granted the approval.LastSaturday,theclericsvisitedNiamey, Niger’s capital, where they deliberated with the coupists,ledbytheirleader,GeneralAbdourahmane Tchiani, for about three hours. The junta warmly received the scholars at the Presidential Palace, rolling out a red carpet reception for them. Only two weeks or so ago, the same junta had given a team of negotiators led by former military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), a cold shoulder, confining the delegation to Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey.

During his meeting with the Islamic scholars led

by Sheik Bala Lau, General Tchiani apologised for the way the military leaders reacted to the delegation led by General Abdulsalami, saying it was to register their anger to ECOWAS for issuing an ultimatum to them to quit power without hearing their side of the story. Tchiani traced the historical ties between Nigeria and Niger, stating that the two countries were not only neighbours, but brothers and sisters who should resolve issues amicably. He said the military leaders’ doors were open to explore diplomacy and peace in resolving the matter. Both the coup leaders and Intervention Team agreed to intensify the option of dialogue in resolving the political crisis in that country.

The way and manner the junta received the scholars’ intervention is instructive: General Abdourahmane holds the scholars in reverence and high esteem being a Muslim himself. He wore a still and sombre demeanour throughout the meeting, listening to them with rapt attention. It was

apparent he was looking up to the Ulammas for a peaceful resolution of the crisis.

CommentingafterthemeetingwithGeneral Tchiani, a member of the intervention team and Chief Missioner of Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria, Sheik Ahmad Abdulrahman, had told journalists in Niamey that both parties hadfruitfuldiscussions,addingthat,“Wewill now go back home and report to President Tinubu what we have discussed and press it on him that war is not an option in resolving the matter.”

Let me at this juncture point out that the decision taken thus far by the ECOWAS Heads of State on the Niger impasse was taken by the regional leaders as a bloc and not a unilateral decision of Nigeria or any of the 15 countries of the community for that matter. In approving the clerics’ mediation in the crisis, however, President Tinubu has demonstrated that he is welcoming of all efforts and measures that would make the interventionoftheECOWASleaderseasyand successful.Thisdeservescommendation.By giving his consent to the clerics’ mediation, the President seems to be showing support forapeacefulresolutionofthecrisisinstead of war. President Tinubu has shown he is a peaceful leader and not a warmonger.

Theexperiencesandpoliticalinclinationsof leaderscannot,itmustbesaid,bediscounted intheconductoftheircountry’sforeignpolicy.

President Tinubu is an avowed and widely

racy there. While there is no guarantee that a democraticallyelectedgovernmentwillbeperfect and not make mistakes and this does not exclude President Bazoum’s government, the irreducible and inviolable principle must be that changes of government must always be through the ballot box in accordance with the tenets of democracy.

The predominant experience all over Africa is that non-democratic changes of government through military coups have most often worsened rather than resolved the alleged ills that prompted the coups in the first place.

Given Niger’s close historical relations and close cultural affinity with Nigeria, President Tinubu naturally desires that the democratic culture must be continuously deepened in both countries in the best interest of their citizens. He believes that everything must be done to avoid war between both countries as this will have no positive implications for either of the too and this is the basis for his pro-dialogue posture. This is a markofgood,sensitiveandresponsiveleadership.

Ultimately, however, ensuring the sustenance of democracy in both countries is the best way of ensuring harmonious and mutually beneficial relationships between them. President Tinubu’s pro-peace stance is rooted in good reason, in the enlightened interest of the member-nations, particularly those nations contiguous to Niger Republic, and will certainly be further pursued in resolving the crisis.

Former Editor of THISDAY on Saturday/ THISDAY on Sunday Newspapers, Rahman is a Presidential Aide.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 19, 2023

20

AUTO WORLD

Bennett Oghifo 07052343083 Email:bennett.oghifo@thisdaylive.com

TIPS OF THE WEEK Automotive Gear Oil: What’s The Difference?

How to choose an automotive gear oil Automotive gear systems, such as those in manual transmissions and differentials, have a tendency to engage in a lot of metal-on-metal contact, causing heat and friction which results in wear and potential component failure if not maintained properly. Using the right gear oil for each application helps protect these moving parts by reducing friction and transferring heat away from them.

What is a gear?

An automotive gear is a rotating toothed cylinder, which forms a mesh with another toothed machine part or gear and transmits torque. The gears can change torque, speed, and direction of the power source and are a critical component in an automotive drivetrain. Gears come in many designs, such as spur, helical, bevel, worm and hypoid designs.

L-R: Sales Executive, Ford, Elisha Urom; General Manager Marketing & Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group, Abiona Babarinde; After Sales Manager, Michael Onyewuchi; Brand Manager, Felix Mahan; Sales Executive, BMW, Zainab Idiris; Sales Executive, Renault, Tope Adejare, all of Coscharis Motors Plc, at the Motorbikes & Food Fest cosponsored by Coscharis Motors, in Lagos… recently

Coscharis Motors Thrills Bikers with Attitude, Determination Group

I

t was fun all the way as the leading automobile dealership, Coscharis Motors excited numerous fun lovers and families that trooped into the popular Muri Okunnola Park, Victoria Island for this years’ edition of the Motorbikes & Food Fest recently organised by Bikers with Attitude and Determination group.

As one of the key sponsors, Coscharis Motors added colour to the entire event with the showcasing of some of its iconic brands like the BMW (both the vehicle and the Bikes), Ford and the Renault brands respectively on display to the delight of visitors to the event.

The General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Coscharis

Group, Abiona Babarinde said, “We are delighted to be part of this year’s edition of the Motorbikes and Food Fest, not only because we could practically bring down here our showroom for the guests to see and feel our products as you must have seen the display of our BMW Motorbikes, BMW cars, down to the Ford and Renault brands respectively for potential new customers; this activation actually helped us as part of our brand building initiatives to connect with our local communities and their lifestyles. We actually delivered a total package of our automobile portfolio with the addition of our Auto Care team that showcased for sales the

ABRO brand of Car care accessories right at the event.”

He further added that, the organizer’s commitment to social welfare complements Coscharis Mission Statement of “contributing to societal development and progress through ploughing back resources to the society directly or indirectly.”

Also, the company utilised the event to interact with its existing customers concerning their vehicle ownership and maintenance.

Micheal Onyewuchi, Aftersales Manager, Coscharis Motors, enthused on the deliberate HͿRUWV E\ &RVFKDULV WR PDNH YHKLFOH RZQHUVKLS HDVLHU ZLWK WKH VHULHV RI WDFWLFDO RͿHUV on parts and services especially given the harsh economic reality in Nigeria, today.

Lagos Council Gives Cowry Cards to Staff for Free Transportation

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gboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area, Lagos KDV FRZU\ FDUGV WR VWDͿ for free transportation to help them cushion the excruciating impact of the petrol subsidy removal.

The council had also distributed food items as palliative to over 17,500 residents. The gesture, tagged: ‘We-lift Food Bank Initiative,’ saw thouVDQGV RI EHQHÀFLDULHV JDWKHUHG DW $URZRVHJEH Primary School Compound, Alapere, one of the distributing centres.

Chairman of the council, Dele Oshinowo, said the initiative was in line with the programmes of the federal and Lagos state governments.

Oshinowo, represented by the council’s Vice Chairman, Mrs Folake Kayode, described the programme as successful.

He said: “You can see that I have lost my voice trying to control the crowd; it has not been easy. We have a mammoth crowd here and they have been here since morning. We are doing our best to ensure the food items go round.

“We have sorted out the elders, the pregnant women and those with disabilities. We did all those ones earlier before allowing other groups into the school compound. What we give out are 5LFH *DUUL <DP DQG %HDQV DQG HDFK EHQHÀFLDU\ has a choice of choosing any two from the food items.”

The council chief said provision was made for SDFNV RI IRRGVWXͿV IRU HDFK GLVWULEXWLRQ centre.

Oshinowo said: “We have seven wards and the distribution is going on simultaneously in all those seven centres. We will continue this

Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees Chairman Babalola Ashafa; Mr Friday receiving a cowry card for easy transportation from the Vice Chairman of the council, Mrs Folake Kayode; Mrs Adebanji Sonate and Mrs Owolabi.

JHVWXUH DV ORQJ DV WKH HͿHFWV RI IXHO VXEVLG\ removal bite hard. The decision to remove the subsidy is a painful one that we must as a nation take to move forward. There is nobody that is not feeling it but we know that after it is for a better tomorrow. It is just like gold. Before gold can be turned to something worthwhile, it would have gone through the goldsmith who ZLOO SXW LW LQ WKH ÀUH “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu meant well for Nigerians. All those developed countries -America, United Kingdom and France, among

RWKHUV KDYH SDVVHG WKURXJK WKLV GL΀FXOW VWDJH ,W LV RXU RZQ WLPH WR WDNH WKDW GL΀FXOW GHFLVLRQ for our future to be better. Nigeria will get there one day.” $ EHQHÀFLDU\ +DP]DW $JERROD WKDQNHG the council boss for the palliative. “We were given rice and we really appreciated it and were happy about it. The subsidy removal UHDOO\ DͿHFWV XV DQG ZH DUH SUD\LQJ IRU WKH JRYHUQPHQW WR FXVKLRQ WKH HͿHFW DQG FRPH up with measures to bring the situation under control,” he said.

What is gear oil vs engine oil?

Gear oil is a lubricant used specifically for automotive manual transmissions, differentials, transaxles, and transfer cases. It helps the drivetrain run smoothly and protects critical internal parts in a vehicle’s gear systems from wear and heat damage. Inadequate lubrication can result in scouring, corrosion, scuffing, and pitting of important drivetrain components.

This deterioration can compromise a vehicle’s performance, and eventually lead to costly repairs.

Gear oil has a higher viscosity than engine oil.

It is identified by its performance classification and its viscosity. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) publishes a viscosity grading guide (J306) for gear oil, which is a different grading scale than the SAE’s engine oil scale (J300).

Gear oil API performance classifications There are several automotive gear oil designations, but the two most common gear oil designations – Lubricant Service Designations for Automotive Manual Transmissions, Manual Transaxles, and Axles – are set forth by the American Petroleum Institute (API) for passenger vehicles: (Source: Kendall)

Coscharis Motors, Stallion Motors, Others to Feature at NAJA Training

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his year’s training/capacity building workshop of the Nigerian Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) will be graced by prominent players in Nigeria’s automotive industry.

The training/capacity building workshop, which will be held in Lagos on August 25, is being headlined by Coscharis Motors Plc, Stallion Motors Nigeria Limited, Jet Systems Limited, Weststar Associates Ltd, and the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC).

The theme of this year’s event, ‘Fuel subsidy removal: Autogas/Electric vehicles as alternatives’ will be discussed by the Director-General, NADDC, Jelani Aliyu, who is the guest of honour.

Aliyu has always been an advocate of the use of gas and electricity to power vehicles as an alternative to fossil fuel, considering the global quest to reduce carbon emissions, implicated in the dire warming of the earth’s temperature.

Also to discuss the theme is the Chairman of the National Gas Expansion Programme (NGEP), Mohammed Ibrahim, who is the Guest Speaker.

The workshop facilitators are Yusuf Jimoh Aweda and Wisdom Elijah.

Aweda will also address the ‘Role of new media in automotive industry reportage’ while Elijah will provide insight on, ‘Autogas/electric vehicle as alternative amid fuel subsidy removal’.

The training is aimed at equipping motoring journalists with the necessary skills in Nigeria’s automotive industry and globally.

Chairman, NAJA, Mike Ochonma, said, “It is imperative for journalists covering the automotive sector to be in sync with the latest happenings, especially at this point, when many Nigerians need alternatives, following the removal of subsidy on petrol,” adding that the two very critical themes chosen for the workshop were “predicated on their crucial importance to Nigeria’s automotive industry.”

21

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 19, 2023

BOOK REVIEW Life and Times of Sani Abacha Charles Ajunwa

Title: Sani Abacha Author: Adebayo Adeolu Pages: 168 Publisher: Kraft Books Limited Year: 2023

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Any book on the life and military career of the late Gen. Sani Abacha, or of any other military HeadofStateinNigeria,isbound to delve into the tragic history of Nigeria.IntellingthestoryofSani Abacha,this163-pagebooktitled ‘SaniAbacha’byAdebayoAdeolu,andpublishedby KraftBooksLimitedin2023,alsotellsasignificant part of history of Nigeria.

Thechaptersofthebookhavethefollowingtitles: (1)Achildofdestiny(2)TheownersofNigeria(3)The spotlight (4) The emerging men (5) The coup that definedAbacha(6)TheJune12saga:Abiolaoffered Premier (7) The seat of power that kicked out the InterimGovernment(8)Thesecondincommandand the apostles of June 12 (9) Obasanjo put in golden cage (10) The International community and sanctions(11)Theplanecrashthatchangedeverything (12)Ambitioussoldiers(13)TheAbachamoney(14) ThevisitfromtheVaticanandforeignintervention (15) A mother in a million (16) Why Abacha used force (17) The Commander-in-chief. The author makes quite a number of revelations which many

readerswouldfindsurprising.Forinstance,weare told in chapter 3 that the late Chief MKO Abiola participated in the August 27, 1985 Babangida coup that overthrew Gen. Buhari’s high-handed militarygovernment(seepage19).Thisinformation is interesting, considering the fact that it was the same Gen. Babangida who was to annul the June 12, 1993 election won by Abiola who later died in detention.

Withasteadilyrisingprofileandrankthatclimaxed inthefoilingoftheApril22,1990GideonOrkarcoup whichsavedBabangida’slifeandhisgovernment,it almostappearedasajokewhentheauthorrecords onpage33that“GeneralIbrahimBabangidamade

a commitment to return Nigeria to democratic civilian rule in a nationwide broadcast.”

ThequestiontoaskhereiswhetherBabangida, or the politicians that later contested the June 1993election,actuallybelievedthatSaniAbacha wouldbecontentedtoendhismilitarycareeronly asasoldierwhohelpedothersoldierstobecome headsofstatewithouthehimselfoccupyingthat number one office. This question is pertinent because allowing Chief MKO Abiola to become president was likely to have truncated Abacha’s chances of ruling Nigeria.

The above point of view was vindicated in December 1999 after Babangida moved the federal capital to Abuja from Lagos. The author observes that: “Sani Abacha stayed back in Lagos and did not move to Abuja to join Babangida. He started creating his own personal structure within the army, cultivating a network of loyal officers in Lagos. He gradually started building his own political empire.”

It is also possible that it was an agreement or understanding between Babangida and Abacha that Abacha should take over after Babangida.

The author gave that hint on the next paragraph: “Babangida had given Sani Abacha a free hand becauseheknewhowtooverthrowgovernment and stop coups.”

Iftheabovetheoryistrue,itmeansthatBabangidaandAbachahadconnivedtotaketurnstorule Nigeria,oneaftertheother,andhadmerelydribbled ChiefMKOAbiolaandNigerians,givingthepeople false hope that they will hand over power, until they annulled the June 12, 1993 election, setting the stage for Abacha to stroll into power.

Probablybecauseitisahistorythatisintendedto bekindtoNigeria’sworstdictatorever,theauthor

highlightsthefailuresoftheINGwithoutmentioningthatAbachahaddeliberatelyorchestratedmuch oftheprevailinginsecuritiesinthosedays,justto have an excuse to take over power. The author’s view on page 50-51 is both highly disputable and quiterevealingofhisstandontheglobalconsensus that Abacha was malevolent: “General Sani Abacha had a kind of balanced government on the onset with a few civilians in the cabinet and he set out to perform and put the country on the right path. However, he was able to achieve this as he had sent an olive branch to Abiolaandhissupporters.Itwasfourdaysafterthe Abachagovernmenttookoverthatthemembers of SDP and other politicians and supporters held meetingsinChiefAbiola’shousetoformulatetheir response and strategy to the unfolding events that had just taken place in Nigeria.

“The new government had promised inclusion to the Abiola group and the SDP General Sani Abacha and his second in command, General Diya offered members of the party ministerial slots by asking Abiola to send names of people he might want to serve in the new government.

Theofferhaddividedthepartyandsupportersof Chief Abiola. The Abacha government used this to pacify the supporters of the June 12 mandate and promised Chief Abiola that they would hand overtohimaftersometime.Thenewgovernment alsopromisedtorefundallthemoneyAbiolaspent on the election.”

MostIgboswillalsofinditdistasteful,ifnothighly offensive, that the author manages to rope the entireIgboethnicgroupintosomeofhisoutlandish commentaries,albeitinthemostuncomplimentary manner. Here is one of the classical examples of this observation: Read full Book review online - www.thisdaylive.com

Nigeria’s Atlanta ‘96 Olympic Football Team Book: The Making of Nigeria’s Dream Team Author: Mumini Alao PhD Reviewer: Adebayo Olowo-Ake

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s you might have guessed, the book is about the victory of Nigeria’s football team at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.

It evokes fond memories of iconic books that have been writtenongreatsportsvictories worldwide.Suchbooksinclude“TalkingtoGOATS”

by Jim Gray; “Young Bucks,” by Matt Jackson and Nick Jackson; “The Commonwealth of Cricket,” by Ramachandra Guha; “So Many Ways to Lose,” by Devin Gordon; “The Boys in the Boat,” by Daniel JamesBrownand“TheLeague,”byJohnEisenberg, to mention but some.

Such books not only provide critical details of those behind-the-scenes developments that occurred on the road to landmark victories by sportsteams insomeofthe mosthotly contested events, but also document for us those elements that made the momentous successes so ably captured by the authors possible and the role played by some or all of the athletes, coaches, sportsfederations,sponsorsandindeed,everyone connected with these very successful teams.

OneofNigeria’sbest-knownfootballstarsandan iconic figure, the inimitable Dr. Segun Odegbami, writes the foreword to the book in 5 pages of free-flowing prose, sharing in it some of his own perspectives on Nigeria’s victory in Atlanta. He then focuses on the work by Mumini, whom he says “is bringing to the remembrance of the world, and to Nigerians in particular, an achievement so significant that it marked a turning point in the psychology of African football teams about their capability to dream the biggest dreams in world football.” According to Segun Odegbami and as far as this Nigerian story is concerned, Mumini Alao has “…captured and documented…” it “… as a permanent reference for posterity.”

For those who read Mumini’s columns regularly, they will agree that he writes in simple language such that the sophisticated and not-so-sophisticated in his reading audience can enjoy what he presents. The style he chose for this book is

no different, but the simplicity of his writing is however encapsulated in an enduring literary elegance that is gleaned throughout the book!

It is therefore easy to read all of the 189-page book and savour the 8 additional pages of complementary photos of the various aspects of the Atlanta Olympics soccer victory and its reportage.

The road to that victory did not however start on such a bright note as the author so vividly captures in the chapter titled “Doing the Double over Zimbabwe” (pages 26-32), as well as the spectaculardefeatoftheteaminwhatwasitslast home game before departing for the Olympics when Togo humbled the players in a 1-3 bashing at the National Stadium in Lagos (pages 42-43).

Now, in the quest to qualify, getting past Zimbabwe initially looked tough, despite Nigeria’s dominance away to the southern Africans in Harare but the team scraped through 1-0. The second leg was a more comfortable win, seeing Nigeria sweep past the Zimbabweans on a 2-0 aggregate score. Was Nigeria home and dry? Not quite,astheZimbabweansprotestedtoFIFAover the ‘unqualified’ use by Nigeria, of goalkeeper Abiodun Baruwa! Now, how did that protest gather steam? Who provided information to the Zimbabweans? How did Nigeria respond?

What did FIFA finally do? You will need to read the saga of that protest in the book for all the details (pages 33-45)!

The book explains all the underpinnings of that defeat—the increasing and assertive role of Jo Bonferevis-à-vistheerstwhileserially-successful national coach Willy Bazuaye; his review of the team list and the associated controversy and rumbling in the camp over that and the general ill-preparation for the game (which ought to have been against Gabon, with Togo only coming in as last-minute replacement). The refusal of the Minister of Sports, Jim Nwobodo, to come to the game as “Guest of Honour” only served to underscore the lackadaisical preparations which saw the humbling defeat in the hands of Togo.

There are two lighthearted developments captured in the book that I found quite funny.

One had to do with the antics of Jo Bonfere, who, while the players had arrived in the US and were basicallyscroungingforfundstorunthecamp(with some players using their credit cards to pay for team expenses, hire and drive buses to training), he simply sat on USD25,000 but told the team

that the Nigerian Football Association (NFA) had notsentanymoneytothethem(contradictingthe strident insistence of the Federation that it had actually sent funds). Alas, it was eventually found out that the NFA did send the money but Bonfere later confessed, in view of that confirmation to the players, that he had ‘sat’ on the money as that was the only way he could recoup some of what he was being owed by the Football body (pages 49-51)!

Then fast forward to a never-to-be-forgotten experience by the author himself, who had to be handed a most complicated flight itinerary to enable him cover the Olympics. Initially looking fine but just rather lengthy in duration, that itinerary turned out to be an “Israelite’s journey” when Mumini ended up a favourite of Thomas Cook which cooked up an interesting cuisine of flights to get him to his destination—one that saw him on a seeming merry-go-round from Heathrow (where he thought he was connecting to the US from after flying into the UK from Nigeria), to Gatwick and then back to Heathrow again and within whiskers of almost missing out on the supposed flight out of Gatwick! You would need to read the book to fully comprehend how this confusion began, what was responsible for it and all other dimensions to the drama I am trying to describe here for you (pages 57-60)!!

Therearethosewhowouldratherlookatphotos, instead of reading. Such individuals struggle to go through text, even if these are few. If you belong in this group, Mumini probably had you in mind and have you ‘covered.’ You will see 18 dazzling photos in ‘living’ colour between pages 46-47.

These images help illustrate this remarkable story, situate it within context and enliven the entire book in no small measure!

As the Nigerians settle into the competition proper and progress in measured steps, they will face one big ‘problem,’ which is the absence of the Nigerian Football Supporters Club in any large number. The few ‘voluntary’ Nigerian supporters who were mobilised in the US had the initial shock of the clearly overzealous security agents not allowingthementerthestadiumwiththeirmusical instruments on the suspicion that these could be used to ferment trouble! You better believe it becauseMuminiwasintheUSlivefortheOlympics and wasn’t making up this story at all.

As the Nigerian team progressed, it became inevitable that it would meet almighty Brazil.

It was a definite ‘star match’ and Nigerian supporters found themselves “adopted” by US fans, who deployed everything they had in support of Nigeria’s “Dream Team.” The support was vociferous and overwhelming. Why, you may wonder, did the Americans choose to support Nigeria? The answer to that can be found within pages 71-75 At the end of the first encounter with Brazil (same group with Nigeria), Mumini recalled one of the Nigerian officials exclaiming to no one in particular,“whenareweevergoingtobeatBrazil?” (pages 85-86). He would get his answer just two more games ahead in one of the most iconic and dramatic football matches ever played in living memory. Mumini does real justice to his reportage of the game in what I will describe as simple prose but exhilarating description! Its all there on pages 95-101. Nigeria’s dream team would go from there to humble Argentina and win Africa’s first ever Olympic soccer gold medal!

“The Making of Nigeria’s Dream Team” is not just about how the country won the gold medal but an insider’s description of all that went on in makingthathappen,includingtherivalrybetween the players, the tensions between the Ministry of Sports and the NFA on the one hand, and the coach on the other. It also details the contribution of several Nigerians based in the US who played a crucial part, oftentimes without expectation of any material reward, towards making their country succeed. It is a book worth keeping in your collection as it probably ranks as the only authentic documentation of this historic feat in the annals of African and indeed global soccer.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book by Dr. Mumini Alao. Indeed, we’ve known each other for almost 30 years. We of course belong to the same profession (even if I have only practiced it sporadically and not as consistently as Mumini has been doing). Highlights of those professional interaction have included being paired on the same presentation teams on national TV for some of the most high-profile football tournaments like FIFA’s France ’98, Nigeria ’99 (U-20) and Korea-Japan 2000 World Cups; as well as the Ghana-Nigeria 2000 AFCON. Additionally, I had found myself writing a column for ‘Complete Football’ (edited by Mumini) at a point and totally savoured the experience!

Read full Book review online - www.thisdaylive.com

22

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 19, 2023

IMAGES

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pomuland, Osun State was agog last Saturday when top monarchs from the state, Oyo, Lagos and Kwara states graced the Palace of the Alapomu, His Royal Majesty, Oba Kayode Afolabi Adenekan II, who was marking his 60th birthday. Oba Afolabi and his wife, Olori Janet, with all the royal pomp and panoply, feted his brother monarchs, led by Arole Oodua, Oonirisa Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi.

The Apomu people were at the palace in large numbers to support their Oba

Alapomu of Apomu, Oba Afolabi Kayode and Olori Janet Afolabi

L-R: HRM Oba Adesina Adebowale, the Omola of Odomola, Epe Division, Lagos State; HRM Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja; the Aladeshonyin of Odo Noforija Kingdom, Epe Division, Lagos State; and Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi HRM Oba Adelani Adeniyi, the Adegbajo of Odo Gbawojo, Epe Division Lagos State

Arole Oduduwa, Oonirisa Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi

L-R: Erelu Ngozi Adeleke, wife of Osun State Governor and Olori Janet Afolabi

L-R: Otunba Wole Ogunbayo; Oba Akinrera of Ifetedo; and Mr Tosin Koyi

Olowu of Orile Owu, Oba Dauda Akinfalabi

L-R: Owaloko of Iloko Ijesha, Oba Akeem Ogungbangbe; and Oba Ayotunde Olamabi Aragbiji of Iragbiji

Dr. Waheed Olagunju

L-R: Olori Oluwadara Windapo of Ara kingdom; Olori Omolara Agunsoye of Ijebu Jesa kingdom; and Olori Modupe Ogungbangbe of Iloko Ijesha kingdom

Owaloko of Iloko Ijesha, Oba (Dr.) Akeem Olubosin of Ifetedo, Oba Akinola Akinrera Ogungbangbe

Elegboro of Ijebu Jesa, Oba Moses Agunsoye

23

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 19, 2023

SUPER SATURDAY Sandra Eze

Marriage is a Journey of Death, Healing, Pleasure and Sacrifice Actress Sandra Eze is not one of your regular faces in Nollywood. Also a TV show host, Sanzye, as she’s fondly called has taken a path in tune with her career desires and aspiration. But above all, her mind is after acting, which she loves. She speaks to Ferdinand Ekechukwu, revealing that contrary to growing opinion she didn’t quit acting and would be crazy to have done that if she had…. She shares her thoughts on the industry and more about her personality

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the marriage institution. There are very few people getting it right.

Marriage is a journey of death, healing, pleasure, commitment, accountability and sacrifice. That’s hard! It’s hard to figure out how complex electronics work without consulting the manual. One man is complex, two humans with different families, experiences, age, sex, exposure etc. merging together is even way more complex. We need God the author to make it work or at the barest minimum, a truck load of wisdom and forbearance. Love and attraction is not enough. I’m not married yet, but I know this is true.

asthegoalalwaysbeenacting looking at your journey in the industry?

No. My journey started with radio hosting, grew into TV and metamorphosed into acting. I didn’t know I would love acting, I didn’t even know I had it in me. Actor, Stan Nze inspired me and I followed him for the ride. I still love media and I have a co-host on WAYS show, but I don’t think I want to be another Christian Amanpour anymore, and I also embraced the fact that I may never work with CNN. Dreams die, sometimes because you’re not well positioned for it or because you lack the resources or because you’re not favoured by the gatekeepers.

What’s your ideal man?

When I get married I’ll answer that (laughing).

But your ideal man should define who you eventually marry, isn’t it? So, you saying you would answer that when you get married gives you away as secretive I would rather observe men, just be you, when I meet my ideal man, I would know he didn’t have prior knowledge on how to sit or how to talk to make me like him. I am very private too.

What have you been up to lately?

I’ve been gathering experiences, a lot of it, which mostly involved building stronger relationship with God… I just got back from a very long holiday/retreat in the US and prior that, I spent over two years in Abuja studying as a student in Koinonia School of Ministry and serving in the sanctuary department. I’m grateful I got to be mentored by Apostle Joshua Selman. I also worked briefly in the corporate world as a Business Development Assistant.

I recently moved back to Lagos.

At some point of recent, one thought you have ‘japa’? Have you any plans to?

(Laughs out loud), After the February elections, it is safe to say that Nigeria finally broke me. However, I haven’t ‘Japa’, I’m still here. I went away to breathe and reset. I must confess though, I am very attracted to the ease of living abroad, it automatically rids you of all the aggression and masculine energy you’ve carried on as Nigerian. Like the basic things we cry for in major cities, people in the ghetto have it… just pay your bills. Be disciplined with savings and investments, then you’ll be fine.

Eze

Has there been a time you ever thought of quitting acting?

I really love acting; I love the thrill of being someone else for a short while. However, as a Christian, I’m also aware that there were roles I could never play. Contrary to what I hear people say, I didn’t leave the scene because I wanted to… I would be crazy to do that. I had just finished a supporting role on Am Brethren, my face was on billboards and all over TV screens across Africa. I was getting more calls, more scripts, better pay.

It was a great season for my career and my purse. I filmed Maskers Season 2 because I had committed and couldn’t afford to disappoint the producer, Victor Okpala. After that, I disappeared from the scene. You would think I was living baby girl life in Abuja… a whole story for another day.

second. My parents separated so we were thrown apart to live with and serve different relatives…that hurt, a lot. As a child I was super sensitive and quiet. I read a lot and laughed a lot… I don’t do both as much anymore. Looking back, I realize parents can passionately love their child and still not know how to handle their sensitivity. I was bullied a lot, such that I ran away from boarding school. I was ready to die on the streets then face another day with the bullies and wicked seniors. Eventually I was moved to Command Secondary School Enugu where I learnt to speak up and stand my ground. My fondest childhood memories were all during Christmas, with my siblings and cousins. I’m deeply grateful to have them as relatives and friends. I guess maybe that’s why I’m naturally happiest in December.

Can you take us through a bit of your background, family, growing up, and fond memories of your childhood and how it shaped you?

I’m from Igboukwu in Anambra State. My Parents, both alive have five children, I’m the

How have you managed to stay out of scandal?

I just stay on my lane. My mentor would say “you are born looking like your parents but you die looking like your decisions”. I weigh my decisions and rule out anything that doesn’t

align with the woman I’m becoming be it romantic interests or promotion deals or whatever.

Apart from acting, what other art form do you indulge?

I sing pretty well and I enjoy dancing, most people don’t know that. I’m picking an interest in painting too.

What’s your take on celebrity marriages considering the impression that celebrity couples don’t last?

Most of us don’t understand marriage yet. We are very self-oriented. We study for everything else but enter marriage on auto pilot. I read a book on marriage by the Late Timothy Keller and it was an eye opener. Marriage is beyond chemical reactions and butterflies.

And that’s tricky because in celebrity world everyone is hot! And most of us are trying to get a relationship that elevates our status or gets us through doors. Yes, you need a purpose partner, but that’s just one course in

Do you think Nollywood with its latest offerings is in the right direction? What are some of the changes you crave in the sector?

Oh yes. There have been a lot of great developments lately. There is more structure, better pay, more streaming platforms, disciplined entertainment executives that don’t ask for sex, affordable film schools, better scripts…

I don’t like that we are fast embracing raw nudity on screen. I believe we are capable of telling beautiful stories without incorporating nudity. They did it in the past and the level of success they attained, with their clean content, most filmmakers are yet to hit that mark. I would like to see more representation in the global film industry. Some of us are going for it! Joseph Benjamin was in Green Leaf, Ayoola was cast in Chosen Season 4, Diana Yekini was in Heart of Stone… that’s super cool!

Even more impressive is the recognition we’re receiving at international film festivals.

Also, cinematography and SFX in recent films like Ahanna, Jagun Jagun, Gangs of Lagos, Anikulapo… is impressive. We are finally telling our story. I must praise the executives at the frontline shattering these doors: Mo Abudu, Kemi Adetiba, Filmone, Play Studios. They put in the work, they should get their credit. In addition, I would love to see more production tailored for kids and family consumption. And I like that independent producers can now put out their contents on YouTube and make a ton from it. It’s good for actors too, more funds equal more production. Viewers are happy, producers are happy, cast and crew are working and happy.

What’s that role you crave to play?

Compared to the previous characters you have assumed...

I’ve done a lot of leads on TV, I don’t have a role in my head yet, I just want to break into film and the box office. Actually, I’d love to do an epic.

24

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 19, 2023

POLITY

Majigiri’s Triumph Over Lado’s Political Tsunami Francis Sardauna inKatsina All contentions surrounding the February 25 House of Representatives election in Mashi/Dutsi Federal Constituency was finally laid to rest on August 10, 2023 following the declaration of Hon. Salisu Yusuf Majigiri by the Supreme Court as the duly elected member of the constituency. Majigiri, who was elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), according to the result announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), scored 27,387 votes to defeat his closest rival, Mansir Ali of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who polled 20,596 votes.

But one of the PDP aspirants, Hon. Nazifi Bello Yusuf, challenged the declaration of Majigiri by INEC as the winner of the poll at the Federal High Court sitting in Katsina, the Katsina State capital. The complainant asked the court to annul Majigiri’s victory on the ground that he did not participate in the party’s primary, proclaiming himself as the substantive candidate of the party in the May 22 primary election and the court ruled in his favour.

Miffed by the ruling of the Katsina Federal High Court, Majigiri appealed the judgement at the Court of Appeal in Kaduna but the judgement was also against him. He later approached the Supreme Court challenging the judgement of the appellate court. At the Supreme Court, Majigiri succeeded over the pre-election matter because the Nigerian apex court struck out Yusuf’s suit against him on the grounds that it was filed outside the prescribed period of time as provided for in section 285 (9) of the 1999 constitution.

The five-man panel, presided over by the Chief Justice of Majigiri Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, further ordered Federal Constituency hitherto race. Shabeji’s voluntary withdrawal INEC to withdraw the Certificate of Return given to Yusuf in for the secondary election created a vacuum, which paved the consequence of the judgement of the Federal High Court. He said: “The judgement of the trial court as affirmed by the lower way for the PDP to conduct a fresh primary for the constituency court was set aside for lack of jurisdiction on the part of the trial on July 2, 2022 in reference to section 33 of the nation’s Electoral Act. Federal High Court to entertain the matter having been filed In the rerun primary, which was supervised by INEC officials outside the prescribed period of time as provided by Section and security agencies, it was only Majigiri that contested as the 285(9) of the constitution.” party’s sole candidate and polled all the entire 65 votes cast by the The apex court also directed the nation’s electoral umpire to issue a Certificate of Return to the appellant, Majigiri, as the PDP delegates. Political pundits therefore wondered why Yusuf, valid winner of the election of Dutsi/Mashi Federal Constitu- who did not participate in the second primary election, could approach the court to seek redress in an exercise he wasn’t party ency for House of Representatives. to four months after.

A cost of N10,000,000 was awarded by the Supreme Court His litigation against Majigiri, who brought him into politics against the counsel to Yusuf and the PDP for making futile attempts to deny the conduct of the second primary before the by appointing him as his senior legislative aide (SLA) while in the House of Representatives in 2007, was alleged to have been court. orchestrated by his newly anointed political godfather, Senator Nonetheless, Yusuf, Yusuf Sule Shabeji and Haruna Garba participated in the first primary which was conducted on May Yakubu Lado.

Lado, who could not actualise his aged-long dream of being the 22, 2023 for the constituency where Shabeji won the party’s governor of Katsina State in the last governorship election over ticket for the general election.

But Shabeji later withdrew his candidacy for the poll through his seemingly self-inflicted problems or squabbles that had split the state PDP into two factions, is busy working against some a letter he personally signed and addressed to the national bigwigs of the party.But with the failure of Lado’s purported aim headquarters of the PDP. In the letter, sighted by THISDAY, of ousting the democratically-elected Majigiri in order to replace Shabeji said he voluntarily withdrew from the Mashi/Dutsi

him with his newly-born political son (Yusuf) who hails from Mashi, analysts said there is palpable confusion and anxiety in his political camp.

Political commentators further argued that there is anxiety in Lado’s camp over the victory of Majigiri at the Supreme Court because those involved in the struggle for his removal were allegedly handsomely rewarded to silence the truth with lies, blackmails and intimidations.

Basking in the euphoria of his victory at the Supreme Court, Majigiri last weekend embarked on a solidarity tour to Mashi and Dutsi Local Government Areas where he was received by hundreds of supporters who trekked for over two kilometres to welcome.

Addressing the large crowds who followed his motorcade from the outskirts of Mashi to the main town, Majigiri promised better representation for Mashi/Dutsi Federal Constituency through people-oriented policies and programmes that will alleviate the plights of the constituents.

Majigiri, who represented the constituency between 2007 to 2011, said: “See the crowd, people have high hopes for me for better representation. Residents of Mashi/Dutsi should expect better representation ever in the history of the constituency by the special grace of God. “There are many areas to be touched, but I am sure with good representation, every sector will be touched accordingly, and that is my priority. We thank the Supreme Court for standing firmly against injustice.”

Majigiri, who was visibly overwhelmed by the judgement, proceeded to Dutsi town amidst jubilation by residents who chanted solidarity songs. In Dutsi, the lawmaker also promised to bring developmental projects to the constituency for the betterment of the citizens.

Indeed, there’s going to be a pragmatic and paradigm shift in Mashi/Dutsi Federal Constituency because the constituents shall witness a radical different, people oriented and purpose-driven legislative representation with Majigiri in the Green Chamber.

One of his supporters said: “Regular interface with constituents is a veritable innovation contained in Majigiri’s manifesto. Periodic town hall meetings shall be convened. This meeting shall afford him the ample opportunity to render account of his stewardship in the Green Chamber as well receive feedback from constituents.

“This feedback will be transmitted as inputs into the national work plan and reflected in the annual budget.

All strata of the constituency namely, faith-based organisation, allied community, trade organisations, political class, youth and women shall participate in this interaction.

“As a vibrant and promise-fulfilling politician, Majigiri will ensure that young men and women are carried along in the scheme of things. Gone shall be the days when the youths of the constituency are excluded from holding positions of authority.

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Sanwo-Olu: Optimus Bank Set to Uplift People Out of Poverty Bennett Oghifo

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agos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stated that Optimus Bank is set to lift the people out of poverty, as he cut the ribbon to formally launch the bank into Nigeria’s financial landscape.

The grand opening and formal launch of Optimus Bank took place at its headquarters on Bishop Oluwole Street, Victoria Island, Lagos,

yesterday.

According to Governor Sanwo-Olu, “Optimus Bank will not only play a crucial role in the banking sector and the established organisations but also in start-ups and SMEs. They are set to lift the people out of poverty.” praised Optimus Bank for employing cutting-edge technology and innovative practices, which align with the state’s push for technological advancement and financial modernisation.”

The governor further commended the commitment of Optimus Bank towards being customer-centric stating that the bank has the interest of its customers at heart and is ready to journey with each customer individually.

He said Optimism Bank’s service “will take personal banking to another level” and that it is willing to collaborate with not only the Lagos State Government in every sector but also with Nigerians in financial transactions.

He assured Optimus Bank of the support of the state government and promised to continually make the state conduceive for business to thrive.

He described Optimus Bank as”People-centric and consumer-focused,” urging Nigerians to “encourage Optimus Bank with the changes it will bring.”

At a pre-launch press conference, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Optimus Bank, Mr. Oghogho Akpata said, “Optimus Bank is founded on principles of trust, transparency, and unwavering dedication to our customers and stakeholders. Our commitment to excellence propels us towards embracing innovation, delivering state-of-theart banking solutions tailored to your needs, and nurturing meaningful relationships. With a devoted team and a customer-centric ethos, we pledge to lead in the digital era by promoting financial inclusion, supporting sustainable initiatives, and effecting positive change in the communi-

Chairman Board of Directors Optimus Bank, Mr Oghogho Akpata; Shareholder, Kunle Soname; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Shareholder, Mr Ayo Ojuroye; and Managing Director, Optimus Bank, Dr Ademola Odeyemi, at the official opening of the bank in Lagos ties we serve. Together, we shall build a resilient future for Optimus Bank, guided by unwavering integrity and a vision of prosperity that transcends time.

“Commencing operations on January 16, 2023, shortly after securing a National Commercial Banking License from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on October 21, 2022, Optimus Bank has swiftly outpaced its contemporaries in the financial sector. With a laser focus on customer satisfaction and digital innovation, the bank has made impressive strides in the ever-evolving economic landscape.”

The Managing Director of Optimus Bank, Dr. Ademola Odeyemi stated that, “The launch of Optimus Bank Limited marks a new chapter in the financial sector – one that dismantles barriers and creates opportunities for everyone.

Our impetus lies in delivering exceptional banking solutions and fostering positive change, ensuring that no one is left behind in their pursuit of financial prosperity. We eagerly anticipate empowering our customers to accomplish their aspirations and make a significant impact in their immediate surroundings.”

At the heart of Optimus Bank’s identity lies a clear vision: to be the go-to platform that empowers both individuals and enterprises, offering them the tools and opportunities essential

for flourishing. The bank envisions a world where financial services transcend barriers, fostering inclusivity and catering to the unique needs of its diverse customer base. Through innovative and customised strategies, Optimus Bank seeks to reshape the traditional banking landscape with cutting-edge technology, thereby pioneering a more promising financial future for all.

The core values of Optimus Bank serve as the bedrock guiding every decision and interaction. These values encompass integrity, customer obsession, innovation, impact, and redefinition of banking norms.

Leveraging a fresh tagline – “New Solutions, Unique Experiences” – Optimus Bank is dedicated to offering customers a diverse range of innovative solutions that cater to their distinctive financial needs. Centered on a customer-centric philosophy, the bank aims to reshape traditional banking norms by embracing the latest technologies and delivering seamless digital experiences, exemplified by the OptiVerse Mobile App. Optimus Bank’s commitment extends to streamlining transactions, ensuring their safety and speed. The bank harnesses technology to drive business growth and enhance efficiency.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 19, 2023

POLITY

Nigeria Prize for Literature Must Stop Being Winner Takes All Uzor Maxim Uzoatu

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he celebrated season of the Nigeria Prize for Literature always ends on the note of winnertakes-all. It is incumbent on me to plead now that the longlisted and shortlisted authors be also rewarded with cash. While the overall winner goes home with the grand prize of $100,000 it stands to reason to console the longlisted writers with $1,000 each while the shortlisted ones can be gifted with $5,000 each.

I think this is a modern democratic ideal as opposed to the ancient one-man-standing of bull-fighting or the Russian roulette! Let’s take the example of the Booker Prize awards in Great Britain where in 2022 the winner will go home with the £50,000 grand prize while the six shortlisted authors will receive £2,500 each.

It will not be a wrong move to go the way of the longestablished Booker Prize. The Nigeria Prize for Literature has always been open to change in its affairs as it always engages the public and the media toward the improvement of the award over the years. This way, the prize money has been increased from the initial $20,000 in 2004 to $30,000 in 2006, $50,000 in 2008, and finally $100,000 in 2011.

The essence of literary awards happens to be the exposure of books and not just bagging the ultimate title as an end in itself. The more books that are given the exposition through the stages of the awards will render more clout to the exercise. There is the tendency for perennial contenders, who are eventually unrewarded, to lose interest in a way that detracts all meaning to the drive for literary awareness.

One champion does not a community make. The call for diversity should make as many books as possible to be showcased. Giving all attention to that one book that wins the prize detracts from the multiplicity of voices needed to give a rounded education to the community.

Literary judgement is fraught with idiosyncrasies such that even the real best book can never ever be determined by even the greatest assemblage of judges. A book that ought to have won could end up being discarded. The books that somehow beat the odds to get to the point of being shortlisted or longlisted deserve recognition in monetary compensation.

While the prize winner can go with the accolade of “best novel of the year” or “best play of the year “or the finest collection of poetry”, there is the concomitant matter of not leaving all the runners-up in the lurch. While in Britain and the United States there are established publishers for the marketing of books, Nigeria still lags behind in not having clearly defined book-publishing organs.

Most of the Nigerian publishers are printers who make no returns as royalties to authors. There should be no denying of these striving authors of any monetary rewards that may come their way through literary awards. It is not for nothing that most Nigerian authors organize the elaborate launching of their books so that they can at the very least cover the printing costs of the books.

A book produced on such arduous terms that goes all the way to the shortlist or longlist of the Nigeria Prize for Literature deserves to win some money for the effort! Writers abroad enjoy the services of astute publishers, experienced editors, savvy marketers and dutiful publicists. The Nigerian writer is what is known as the one-man-riot squad because he intervolves himself in all aspects of the publishing trade before he can ever get a book out there. Waiting for a publisher to help him along the line would amount to waiting for Godot. If Britain where correct publishing thrives can reward shortlisted authors with cash prizes, what stops Nigerian literary award organizers from doing the needful? This would do a world of good toward enlarging the creative process in Nigeria.

Time was when Nigeria had proper publishing as represented by foreign-owned companies such as Heinemann, Longmans, Macmillan, Evans, Oxford University Press etc. That time is gone, and most Nigerian authors must perforce pay the so-called publishers to print their books sans editing, marketing or any

publicity whatsoever.

As the NLNG put out in its mission statement as per setting up the Nigeria Prize for Literature, “prior to inauguration of the Prize, the quality of writing, publishing, news features and articles in newspapers and magazines, and the quality of film production on television and radio did not paint a picture of the excellence the industry was previously known for.”

These authors who struggle past these Herculean odds to get to the longlist or shortlist deserve to be monetized!

The NLNG goes ahead to stress: “It therefore became evident to us at Nigeria LNG that a well-run literary prize with transparent adjudication process, administered by respected academics, writers and lovers of literature, and with respectable monetary reward will spur creativity and contribute to the improvement of the quality of writing, editing and publishing in Nigeria. The rest, as they say, is history.”

It is my plea that the “respectable monetary reward” that will spur creativity should be spread across board beyond the one-person winner. Creativity will grow in leaps and bounds once the erstwhile denied runners-up are encouraged through some monetary rewards due them in the dire Nigerian scheme of things. The NLNG remains a listening organization, and I can count on the management to help the authors of Nigeria by way of this special plea.

Babaeko to Speak at TAF 2nd Anniversary

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resident of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), Mr Steve Babaeko, will, today, deliver the keynote address at the inaugural report presentation and fundraiser of Tamilore Areola Foundation (TAF).

This was disclosed in a statement by the co-founder of TAF, Jeffrey Adebayo. The statement noted that Babaeko will be at the frontline of the event, which will mark the foundation’s second anniversary scheduled to be held at the Ikeja Golf Club.

The statement quoted Adebayo as saying Babaeko’s profile as a social entrepreneur and a member of the Ikeja Club make him the perfect fit for the keynote speaker role and align with the core principles of the organisation as espoused by the late founder, Tamilore Areola.

“Our vision at TAF is fueled by a deep commitment to service and compassion, echoing Tamilore’s extraordinary ability to transform lives. Our mission resonates with her actions: to replicate her impact through our focus on charity, entrepreneurship, and

L- R: Chief Executive Officer, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, Jacques Vermeulen; Correspondent, The Africa Report, Xolisa Phillip; Vice Chairman, Africa, TGI Group, Farouk Gumel; Executive Vice-President, Humanitarian and Development, Mastercard, Tara Nathan; Senior Partner, Amethis, Khady Kone-Dicoh; and Managing Director/ Partner, BCG, Stefano Niavas, at the 2023 Africa CEO Forum held in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire… recently.

L-R: NBA Members Benin Branch, Sam Atoe; Jonathan Ainerua; Agbons Osayamwanbor; Chairman NBA Benin Branch Nosa Edo-Osagie; Hon Justice Geraldine Imadegbelo; Ighodalo Imadegbelo SAN; Adesuwa Omonuwa; Law Week committee Chair Matilda Otoide and Abayomi Thomas at the spectacular annual law week ceremony of the Nigerian Bar Association Benin Branch held recently in Benin City.

healthcare.

“Mr Babaeko is a social entrepreneur and philanthropist, who has shown commitment to advancing charity, entrepreneurship and healthcare. Most recently, his public health advocacy titled “Scoot Life Expectancy”, an initiative against the menace of soot caused by unwholesome environmental practices in PortHarcourt, Nigeria, made history by winning the health category of the Cannes Lions, an international advertising award,” Adebayo stated.

Adebayo also noted that the report presentation and fundraising event will coincide with the maiden edition of the foundation’s Charity Golf Tournament. Explaining the rationale for the Charity Golf Tournament, Adebayo said the late founder actively participated in golf in her lifetime and was able to build numerous friendships through it.

“Notably, golfers played a significant role during TAF’s Launch two years ago. This resonates deeply with our belief that the Charity Golf Tournament provides an ideal platform for presenting the foundation’s initiatives,” he added.

L-R: Director, Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability, Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd, Nwamaka Onyemelukwe; Director of the Department of Hydrology, Ministry of Water Resources, Engr.

Mukaila Segun Babarinde; Chief Executive Officer, Sterling One Foundation, Olapeju Ibekwe, at the Africa Social Impact Summit 2023 held recently at Eko Hotel, Lagos.

L-R: Executive Chairman, Ogun State TESCOM, Evang. Joshua Olalekan Ifede; Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Ogun State,Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu; Chairman, Board of Trustees, Teach For Nigeria, Kunle Elebute; Chief Executive Officer, Teach For Nigeria, Folawe Omikunle; Chairman, ONTV Nigeria Limited, Frank Nweke (Jr); Ambassador, Teach For Nigeria, Joke Silva, and Board Member, Teach For Nigeria, Ayo Olajiga, at the 2023 graduating ceremony held in Lagos recently.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER AUGUST 19, 2023

26

EXPRESSION

MEDIAGAFFES

Ice Cube, Not ‘Ice Block’

EBERE WABARA

D

AILYIndependentOnlinepublication of July 11 verbalized ignorance: “Police tear gas fuel-price mob” Fracas: ‘tear gas’ is an uncountable noun—not a verb. So, Police use tear gas on fuel-price mob “…Nigerians will have no reasons to be desperate about migrating to other lands.” My view: end the sentence at ‘migrating’! There is no need for ‘to other lands’.

Now the Editorial which circulated three solecisms: “…in it’s (its) latest 10-year forecast….” “…in the last quarter of 2022 to between N1,700 to (and) N2,000 in 2023.”

“The truth is that the insight provided by industry watchers, non-state actors and watch-dog (watchdog) groups in the construction industry appear (appears) to confute….”

Lastly from the Back Page: “…he has literarily (literally) set his new agenda on 2027…pitching (pitting) himself against the NGF….”

Daily Trust of July 10 goofed: “The recurrent confrontation between ASUU and the Federal Government can best be described as a game of hide-and-seek.” An insight: …be described as hide-and-seek.

Let us welcome National Daily to this column.

Its July 8-12 edition showed the character of the newspaper with many headline blunders: “Controversy trails passage of bill on N20bn bond: None involvement of public condemned” Building a new culture: non-involvement “Abia losses (loses) internal revenue source” “Oil theft: PENGASSAN, NUPENG, (what is this comma for?) give FG 60 days (60-day or 60 days’) ultimatum” “Chinese is (are) taking over our businesses— Manufacturers” “Tinubu raises curiousity to deliver on infrastructure” What is the meaning of this? Spell-check: curiosity “Tension mounts over Ijaw/itsekiri tribal (ethnic) clash”

BY

“IGP assures adequate security”Who did he assure?

Finally from National Daily: “….bemoans the poor performance of students” Educational standard: students’ poor performance “Gun men kill soldier in Edo” (NIGERIAN PILOT Front Page Headline, July 9) Before the paper crashes: Gunmen “People who for one reason or the other (or another) are unable to observe it either in full or part are required….” The extract is restrictive (limiting to two) while the correction gives a broad latitude.

“Nigerians in Diaspora seeks (why?) tax waiver for home investments” From the Back Page of The Guardian: “Come (In) 2026, many occupants of elective offices will constitutionally relinquish their positions.” Except for Apocalypse or other rapturous manifestations, 2026 will come!

THISDAY of July 8 disseminated advertorial and editorial faults: “Silverbird in conjuction (conjunction) with the Bayelsa StateTourism Development Agency presents….”

Next are the following four indiscretions: “…

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala said the country is (was) losing around (about) 300,000 barrels of crude daily to oil thieves, amounting to a loss of $1 billion per month ($1 billion monthly).”

“Yet so massive is the crime that the JTF last week discovered another sets (another set or other sets, depending on the fact of the matter) of crude oil loading points in three communities in Bayelsa State.”

“Cost of funds drop (drops) on cash inflow” “…the Lagos State Government has initiated a process that will deliver at least 900 million litres of portable (potable) water to homes in different part (parts) of the state.”

“Your election as the new (would it have been old?) President of ARSO is a testimony of (to) your giant strides in….” (Full-page advertisement signed by the managements of Promadaz Industries Ltd. & Macpee Agencies Ltd.)

The July 9 edition of THE NATION ON SUNDAY failed to show why it is Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper with a few blunders starting from its window: “NSA orders probe, more troops deployed to (in) Yobe” Now this schoolboy howler: “Despite the fact that 54 out of the reported 175 prisoners that escaped from the Olokuta prison have been re-arrested, the bitter truth (pill) is that prisons in the nation are not well secured.”

“In a desperate last minute (last-minute) bid to beat the NCC June 30th deadline….”

“School holds inter house (inter-house) cultural competition” THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER, of July 8 goofed on a few occasions: “Community gives Mobil 21 day (21-day) ultimatum to pay N4bn oil spill (oil-spill) compensation” “…an incident that have (has) been mired in controversy” “…a centre that will offer retirees across the state antidotes for (to) boredom and solitude after three decades of active public service.”

Lastly from THISDAY: “But like (as) I said, you don’t know what God plans.”

The next six Offences are from THE GUARDIAN of June 18: “That’s why renowned scholars from top-rated citadels of learning around the world would be converging in (on) Ekiti State….” (Full-page advertisement by the Government of Ekiti State) “Nigeria (Nigeria’s) food import reduce (reduces)

by N857b, says Adesina” “This way you stay connected to our world class (world-class) audio and video channels.” (Full-page advertisement by DStv) “MTN Project Fame 6.0 All-Stars Concerts” (Full-page advertisement by MTN) Everywhere you go: All-star concerts Still on advertorials in THE GUARDIAN of June 18 with Standard Chartered offering the next two identical blunders: “Its (It’s) good when a relationship can help you achieve what truly matters”

A Glimpse into Tinubu’s Lagos Magic

S

ince the incumbent president, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, surged ahead of other aspirants to win the primaries of the All Progressives Congress APC, in June 2022, we have been serenaded with the masterful, resourceful and near magical handling of Lagos affairs by Tinubu between 1999 and 2007.

These eight years were subsequently sold to the electorates as the halcyon of brilliant and groundbreaking stewardship in the art and science of public administration. The vote-catching mantra went thus: if he did such great feats in Lagos around 20 years ago, he is eminently primed to dazzle the disconsolate, and uplift the dreams and hopes of Nigerians, in a short while.

For those who were too young to consciously live through the Lagos era of Tinubu, and other hope-bubbling devotees of the Jagaban Borgu, we have unearthed this piece written during his second tenure, at the height of his fracas with then president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. It gives a candid profile of the then governor’s handling of an important area of the polity: education. And how we spontaneously responded. Perhaps it will help to contextualize and moderate our enthusiasm as supporters and angst as opposers. The piece was titled “Give My Daughter a Break!” and was first published in The Guardian newspaper of June, 2006. Let us move on….

“My daughter came back from school the other day, and brought another letter.

My heart skipped a beat, and I wondered if my grace period had elapsed. The worst that can happen to a parent is to have your child kicked out of school for unpaid or uncompleted school fees. First, you cannot blame the school for obeying the law of the jungle, and in any case, the school will also have to pay their own “fees” to suppliers, staff, and government, ever demanding and never satisfied like the grave, etcetera. And can you blame the parents who want the best education for their children? They have now

been overtaken by the surging hikes in fees such that their initial calculations for choosing a particular school has been rubbished and compromised, sometimes embarrassingly. It is no longer strange to see children withdrawn from one school to another, as the old school has suddenly become too expensive for their parents’ fiscal resources.

Only psychologists can anticipate the sort of damage some of our children are exposed to as we drag them from one school to the other on account of out-of-sight increases in fees, and other perplexing demands on the fast deteriorating personal economic portfolio of the Nigerian family.

But the clear and present danger, at this point in time, is not the exorbitant cost of private primary and secondary education (vital and injurious as it is to the Nigerian family who is increasingly worried about the unrelenting decay of the public schools); the issue is more pervasive and destructive to the quality of education we offer in Nigeria.

The letter my daughter brought was from the principal, who wanted the parents to pay an extra N3,000 for their JSS 3 children. Now, this fee is for “Registration for the new Lagos State Common Entrance Examination”. In a civil but firm note, the principal revealed that this novelty was from the whiz-kids at the Lagos State Ministry of Education. And it was meant for “additional examination practicals”.

Of course, we had about two weeks to pay up, or face the consequences. Knowing the rate and ferocity with which the owners of the City of Excellence run public business, we will not be surprised if the idea came as an after-thought, without consultations with schools, parents or any stakeholders for that matter.

We all know the culprit: the lingering political tussle between the powers in Abuja and the Alausa warriors, culminating in seizures of state allocation. On that aspect, a new fiscal policy is now on course…eminent intervention (call it interlocutors and political guarantors) now have to visit Ota Farms every other month,

to massage the ego of the maximum head of the country, to release a part of Lagos allocation, in return for a clear display of good behavior from the stubborn governor with elephantine political dreams. That in a nutshell is the reason why we suffer after-effects of brainwave from harassed civil servants who must think up ingenious (even if injurious) schemes and propositions to eke out money from hapless Lagosians.

Now, why this foaming in the mouth?

Is N3,000 so heavy that some of us have become “activists”? On that query, the answer is yes. Our anger is not only on the brash and impromptu procedure of demanding N3,000 for “practicals” from students in private secondary schools barely weeks to the examinations; we deplore the apartheid attitude where JSS 3 students are made to act as “martyrs” for the sins of national looters, and as mop-basin to clean up the messy stench public schools have become.

First, let us ask: are students in public schools made to pay this ridiculous amount?

Of course, no. Did this same government not collect N6,000 from parents a few months ago as the fee for the common entrance examination? Were these same parents not asked to pay to their federal counterpart (NECO) another N6,000 about the same time as the one stated above? Of course, on each count the sad answer is, yes.

And, please, pardon my ignorance: what are the “practicals” that we are asked to pay N3,000? Are these not the same items my daughter badgers me regularly for, either to help her do or get artisans to work on them?

So, why are we made to pay N15,000 for the same common entrance, just to move to the next class, in the same school, without scant regard whatsoever from an elected government whose cardinal plank for governance is qualitative and affordable (if not exactly free) education?

It seems to us that the government (be it state or federal) is driving backwards, at a breakneck speed, in its effort to completely

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

“Connect to the worlds (world’s) most dynamic markets” THE GUARDIAN on Saturday of July 1 nurtured two sub-headline blunders: “Southeast bound (Southeast-bound) passengers stranded at Lagos Airport” “JTF says Kano not under any threat, as it deploys armoured vehicles on (to) major streets” “Facilities at AOCOED excites (why?) NCCE team” “I had it rough at (in) the beginning—Proprietress, Carol School” “CSR: Between philantropy and palliatives” Brands and marketing: philanthropy” “...Toure’s kids’ gloves treatment of the Tuareg rebels (rebels’) insurgence as its main reason to....”

(Editorial) All the facts, all the sides: kid gloves.

“Woman arrested for killing mum” It is obvious that the sub-editor who treated this story has never heard of ‘matricide’! So, woman arrested for matricide.

“The elevation of some police officers and retirement of 13 Assistant Inspectors General has (have) led to some bad blood (delete the word preceding bad blood) in the force....” Elevation and retirement are distinct milestones that cannot be collapsed into singularity!

“When Hafeez Ringim, then an Assistant Inspector General (a comma) was elevated to the rank of Inspector General (another comma) all his seniors (DIGs) had to retire.” Not true: they were retired to pave way for the Ringim ultimate disaster!

“You have undoubtedly brought to bear stability and credibility to (on) the National Assembly.”

“My dear distinguish Senator Akpabio...Indeed, we are celebrating a statesman whose dedication and service to his fatherland is (are) worthy of emulation.”

On the plateau: My (Our) dear distinguished Senator....

“Your unassailable wisdom and sterling qualities have made you stand out as trustworthy and reliable leader.” Happy Birthday: a (note the article) trustworthy and reliable leader.

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

AKINTUNDE-JOHNSON fajalive1@gmail.com 08033622806- (SMS Only)

wipe out any sort of quality education in the land. Or what else is the benefit of this current madness? Why do we pay for a junior secondary school examination that is five times more expensive than sitting for WASC or GCE or JAMB? Why? What are our educationists trying to prove by asking parents of Nigerian children in private schools to pay through their noses some bogus “extra-curricular” fees when indeed they should bury their heads in shame for the perfidy they have turned public education to?

I am a product of public education; my parents, poor as they were, did not groan to send me to school; and I got enough quality to allow me make my way in life…without harbouring any inferiority complex whatsoever. Can any student pass through what remains of our public education today and escape the stench of its pervasive odium and neglect? Or shall we take it that the next focus of the government for general and corporate desecration is the sprawling private enterprise in the education of our children?

If these statements sound overstretched, or seem like crying wolf; one just needs to put the latest yo-yo dance over the current approaches to the Universal Basic Education scheme (6-3-3-4 structure) and the “rumour” of extending primary education to nine years, in retrospect. Before we conclude that government is indeed confused and disillusioned about how to run education in the country, we may have to observe the military tactics they have imported into public policy machinery: they brow-beat school proprietors into all sorts of hare-brained schemes, in the name of “government said so”...”.

(To Continue) - Update: fajalive1@gmail.com 08033150547.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

19.08.2023

NEWS

BETTER LEAGUE SEASON AHEAD

Tobi Amusan Clean Bill at Last

PAGE. 27

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 19, 2023

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nehundredmetreshurdlesworld record holder, TobiAmusan, was on Thursday cleared by the Disciplinary Tribunal to compete at the World Athletics Championships which start today in Budapest, Hungary after she was provisionary suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) for missing three whereabouts tests within a 12-month period.

AIU however released a statement to express its dissatisfaction with the outcome but said they will review the judgement before going to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

A panel of the Disciplinary Tribunal, by majority decision, found that Amusan has not committed an Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV) of three whereabouts failures within a 12-month period. AIU Head Brett Clothier has indicated that the body is disappointed by this decision and will review the reasoning in detail before deciding whether to exercise its right of appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within the applicable deadline. The decision is currently confidential but will be published in due course. Amusan’s provisional suspension has now been lifted with immediate effect”.

News out of Budapest from Athletics Federation of Nigerian, (AFN) said the world 100m hurdles record holder has been cleared and will now travel to Budapest to defend the historic gold medal she won last year at the 18th edition of the Championships.

The tribunal of three arbitrators exonerated Amusan from two out of the three tests after the Nigerian argued that the tester did not do enough from locating her.

Interestingly, Amusan had insisted that she was not a drug cheat.

“I am a clean athlete and I am regularly; (may be more than the usual) tested by the AIU-I was tested within days of my third ‘missed test. ” I have faith that this will be resolved in my favour and that I will be competing at the World Championships in August,” Amusan wrote last month on her Facebook page.

On July 19, Nigerians and indeed the sporting world woke up to the news that track jewel and 100 metres hurdles world record holder, Amusan had been suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit.

The AIU suspended Amusan for missing three whereabout tests within a 12-month period, a charge that could result in a twoyear suspension, even if an athlete has never failed a drug test.

The AIU, which is responsible for overseeing anti-doping measures in global athletics, has put in place strict rules and regulations to ensure the integrity of the sport and maintain fair competition for all athletes.

One of these rules requires athletes to submit information on their whereabouts, including their daily location and availability for testing, to the AIU’s Anti-Doping Administration and Management System (ADAMS).

Failure to provide accurate and timely information can result in sanctions, and in Amusan’s case, the three whereabouts failures had led to her provisional suspension from competitions.

The AIU’s decision will be further investigated and reviewed in accordance with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code.

In reaction to the charge and now suspension, Amusan vowed to resolve the charges against her as she insists on being a “Clean Athlete” “I am a clean athlete, and I am regularly (maybe more than usual) tested by the AIU,” she wrote, in referencing the Athletics Integrity Unit, which oversees doping issues in international track and is the agency that charged her with the violation.

“Today, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has charged me with an alleged rule violation for having three missed tests in 12 months.

“I intend to fight this charge and will have my case decided by a tribunal of three arbitrators before the start of next month’s World Championships,” she had vowed.

Reports were rife last weekend in the media that the 26-year-old had been cleared to take part at the World Championships but the World Athletics was quick to debunk the reports that Amusan has been cleared to participate at the 2023 World Athletics Championships Amusan’s name was excluded by AFN from the competition as while she was under doping investigation by AIU. “Please be advised, reports that say Tobi Amusan has been cleared to compete in Budapest are wrong,” Nicole Jeffery, World Athletics’ Head of Communications had said in a statement.

Amusan

Tobi Amusan

Clean Bill at Last

Just a little over a year ago, she was the cynosure of all eyes after her returning time of 12:12 in the semifinals of the 100 metres hurdles at the World Athletics Championship in Oregon, United States, became a new world record.

However, a shock wave was sent to Nigerians after she was suspended by the Athletes Integrity Unit (AIU) for failing the whereabouts test three times thereby making it doubtful as to her availability to defend her title in spite of AIU promising to look into her case before the kickoff of the championship in Budapest, Hungary. Interestingly, ahead of today’s WAC, Disciplinary Tribunal on Thursday cleared the 26-year-old of any wrong doing. How much damage the interim suspension might have done to her psyche however will be seen in her performance “No decision has been made in this case yet. When a decision is made, it will be announced by the Athletics Integrity Unit.”

It would be recalled that the World Athletics included Amusan’s name on the entry list for the competition published penultimate week but with a proviso that her participation would depend on the outcome of the whereabouts failure charge preferred against her by the AIU. The AIU was expected to make their decision known before the start of the World Athletics Championships today and they didn’t disappoint as it freed the 26-year-old of any wrong doing.

Amusan is currently the world record holder in the women’s 100m hurdles.

Meanwhile, the first batch of Nigerian athletes to the World Athletics Championships landed in Budapest on Tuesday, with officials still hoping that Amusan would be cleared by the AIU. The first group of Nigerian athletes accompanied by the duo of Coach Tony Osheku and Gabriel Okon jetted out from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos through a Turkish Airlines flight for weather acclamatisation and to put finishing touches to their preparations for the championships.

“About 80 per cent of the athletes have left for Budapest, so that they can get adequate rest. We are hopeful of a good outing, not only in the relays, but also in other events,” Athletics Federation of Nigeria’s (AFN) Technical Director, Samuel Onikeku said.

Interestingly, AFN President, Tonobok Okowa is optimistic of good news from AIU concerning Amusan’s case.

Amusan has the unenviable list of becoming the third athlete from the country to be

provisionally suspended by AIU after the duo of compatriots-Divine Oduduru and Grace Nwokocha.

Amusan, 26, is the reigning women’s hurdles world record holder and champion after returning a time of 12.12 at the Oregon championship edition last year.

She now has the chance to defend the only title she has not defended in her career after

her successful defence of her Nigeria, African Championships, African Games, Commonwealth Games and Diamond League titles.

How well Amusan recovers from the phycological damage the suspension has brought to her preparation towards the championship however remains to be seen.

The world athletics showpiece kicks off today and ends August 27.

Women 100m Hurdles Gold Medal Favourites A total of 40 athletes will be participating in the women’s 100m hurdles in the World Athletics Championships 2023 which will be held in Budapest from today to August 27.

Below are the top three contenders for gold medal in women’s 100m hurdles:

Tobi Amusan

The 26-year-old Nigerian is the current World Champion, African Champion, and number one ranked in the world.

Apart from that, Amusan is also two times Diamond League Final winner and a three times Commonwealth Games champion.

She recorded her best 12.12 (+0.9) during the World Athletics Championships in Oregon in 2022 which broke the World Record, Continental Record, and the National Record.

Season-best: 12.34s (+0.9m/s) at Chorzow, Poland in July 2023

Jasmine Camacho-Quinn Camacho-Quinn, aged 26 from Puerto Rico, is the current world number two, an

Olympic Champion, a World Championships bronze medalist, and nine-time Diamond League meetings winner.

Her personal best of 12.26s (-0.2) came during the Tokyo Olympics in August 2021 where she also broke the National Record.

Season-best: 12.31s (-0.2m/s) in Los Angeles, USA in May.

Nai Ali

A 34-year-old from the United States, Ali is a World Champion, an Olympic silver medalist, a National Champion, and a World University Games winner.

Her best run of 12.30s (+0.6) came in very recently during the Monaco Diamond League in July 2023.

Season-best: 12.30s (+0.6m/s) at Monaco, July.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 19, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER

Amokachi Backs this Season’s NPL to Better Last Year’s Edition Kunle Adewale

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nspite of the applauses the organisers of the 2022/23 Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL, enjoyed from followers of the game and observers, former Super Eagles striker, DanielAmokachi has stated that this season’s Nigerian league, which hopefully commences on September 9, would be better than last season’s edition.

In a chat with THISDAY, after the Inauguration of the All-Stars Committee by the Chairman of the NPFL Board-Gbenga Elegbeleye, Amokachi, who heads the new committee is of the opinion that this season’s league would be fascinating in every sphere and an improvement on last season’s.

“This year’s league would be far better than the last edition. Last season a lot of people rated it 8/10 in spite of the fact that it was an Abridged League. This season it is going to be a full season and hopefully the final outcome would by far be better than last year’s.

“Teams going away from home to win games, is a plus for the league. The referees have also braced up to doing what needed to be done, unlike what we witnessed in the past. With the federation supporting the league, the chairman of NPFL sitting up and ensures that things work according to plan, the fans being responsible at the stadiums due to the awareness created, unlike what we had in the past. I’m very convinced that we would have a fantastic league season this time around,” an optimistic Amokachi said.

Meanwhile, the 1996 Olympics gold medallist has also hailed the NPFL Chairman for coming up with the Team of the Month initiative describing it as beautiful.

“It’s a beautiful initiative. Kudos goes to the Chairman of NPFL, Elegbeleye for sourcing this opportunity for the local league players to play against top La Liga clubs at the end of the season.

It’s a platform that would bring out the best of the players. If I know as a player that at the end of the season I will have the opportunity to be selected in the All-Stars team and represent Nigeria in Spain, which might be the game changer my life then I’ll give everything. That is the plus we’re looking at and we pray that we will be able to get sponsors for prizes for the players that made the Team of the Month,” the former Everton forward said.

Speaking in the same vein, the Chairman of Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) and co-chairman of the All-Stars Committee, Harrison Jala, said the committee was ready for the task ahead, assuring that the 2023/2024 league season would be more innovative in order to build on the success of the previous season.

“This is a call to service; we intend to make fairness our watchword and give our league a facelift, and make it better than the

G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMIFULA OGBU THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

Rangers, Enyimba slug it out at the Godwin Akpabio Stadium, in preparation for the new NPFL season

2022/2023 league season.

“If you check the calibre of people on the committee, you’d see that they’re seasoned professionals in their rrespective fields.

We are open to suggestions and ideas but fairness remains our watchword,” he said For the Chairman of Propel Sports Africa, Basil Kabbani, he promise that his

organisations would made available statistics of matches readily available when the NPFL kickoff.

NPFL Board, Still Same Old Wine Kunle Adewale Last season, the Interim Management Committee (IMC), manager of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) led by Gbenga Elegbeleya gave the impression that a new Sherriff was in town with the way the NPFL was prosecuted.

Now that the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF a board in charge of the NPFL, with the former IMC boss as chairman and virtually all his IMC crew as members, one expected that some consistency in the activities of the board.

However, to the disappointment of followers of the league which has just won some new

converts courtesy of the success recorded by the Super Six and helped greatly by the unprecedented achievement recorded by the Naija Super 8 the NPFL announced the postponement of the 2023/34 Nigeria league season in spite having ample time to prepare and vowing severally that the August date is sacrosanct.

Postponement of kickoff dates has always been synonymous with the Nigerian League but when one thought Elegbeleye and his board was bringing sanity and consistency to the league it recently announced a two-week postponement.

NPFL last week extended the resumption

date of the new football season by two weeks after it had originally set August 26, as the kickoff date for the 2023/24 season, but it has now been extended by two weeks.

According to the statement released by the league board, the reason for the extension is to properly prepare for a full season since it won’t be played in an abridged format.

The management of English Premier League in which most countries model their league is not known for postponing the kickoff date of its league, so why always the NPFL. It would be recalled that the NPFL suffered two postponements last season courtesy of Elegbeleye’s IMC.

Enyimba Secures Sponsorship Deal with Stake.Com, Depart for Libya In an effort to propel Enyimba International FC to the pinnacle of global football, The People’s Elephant have signed a multi-year deal with Australian Crypto Company.com The new club Chairman, Kanu Nwankwo immediately after his appointment by the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti swung into action with moves and deliberations as well as pulling his connections with positive effects to ensure that the two time CAF Champions League winner improves on its branding.

Those effects which also rubbed off on the African Football League, officials inspection visit of the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo,

as one of the venues for the AFL league had hardly settled down and the news of the sponsorship deal filtered in all over the social media handles with #Kanueffects.

Enyimba now join Everton FC of England and the New Zealand/Nigerian born Mixed Marshall Art (Kick boxer), Israel Adesanya as major partners of the company.

Although the worth of the deal is yet to be made public, the NPFL Champions is expected to adorn the company’s name/logo on their match jerseys and other agreed club wears to promote

their business.

Meanwhile, ahead of the 2023 CAF Champions League first leg first round knockout games this weekend, Enyimba FC are looking set for the trip to Benghazi, Libya where they will keep a date with Al Ahli Benghazi of Libya in one of this weekend’s games.

The Finidi George tutored boys after series of friendlies in Uyo are in Lagos fine-tuning their strategies after a brief stopover in Asaba, Delta State. The team departed Lagos yesterday with a 30-man contingent of 22 players and eight officials for the weekend encounter.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 19, 2023

30

GLOBAL SOCCER

Phil Foden scored the first goal in the 2-0 defeat of Newcastle at the Etihad Stadium last season

Man City Face First Title Defence Real Test as Newcastle Storm Etihad Manchester City’s quest to become the first club to win the Premier League four times in a row faces its first real test as new English top flight power house, Newcastle visit the Etihad today. Both sides had an easy ride in the opening day of the league season. While the Citizens beat Burnley 3-0, the Magpies pummeled AstonVilla 5-1 but today’s encounter is expected to be a true test for both managers - Pep Guardiola and Eddie Howe, who are known for their contrasting approach to the game

T

wo of the Premier League’s big winners on the opening weekend square off in an intriguing Etihad encounter tonight, as Manchester City host Newcastle United. The Magpies demolished Aston Villa 5-1 at St James’ Park last weekend, while Pep Guardiola’s side recently clinched UEFA Super Cup glory against Sevilla.

While some people wait a long time for a bus and two come at once, the Man City faithful endured years of European agony before witnessing their side win two continental honours in the space of two months, and their Super Cup success followed a straightforward opening 3-0 Premier League win over Burnley.

The student reunited with his master as Clarets boss Vincent Kompany tried to mastermind an opening-day shock, but Erling Haaland’s customary brace swiftly killed such hopes, before Rodri put the cherry on the icing on the cake to ensure Man City started as they mean to go on.

Now returning to their Etihad headquarters for the first time this season, Man City are aiming to stretch their magnificent Premier League winning streak on familiar turf to 11 matches, having triumphed in all of their top-flight home meetings in 2023 since being held by Everton on New Year’s Eve. While Man City’s three-goal success at Turf Moor is appropriately good enough for third place in the Premier League table, Eddie Howe’s rampant Newcastle currently lead the way at the top courtesy of their exceptional display against a disjointed Aston Villa side.

Moussa Diaby had initially cancelled

out an opener from fellow new arrival Sandro Tonali, but Unai Emery’s high defensive line was subsequently exposed time and time again by Newcastle, as Alexander Isak’s brace, Callum Wilson’s finish and Harvey Barnes’s injury-time strike completed the Magpies’ mauling. Sitting clear of Man City and Brighton & Hove Albion on goal difference with 37 games left to play, Newcastle will soon have European football on their minds as they wait to learn who they will face in the Champions League group stage, but repairing an underwhelming away record is Howe’s number one priority at this moment in time.

The 5-1 thumping of Villa extended Newcastle’s Premier League unbeaten streak to five matches, but they won just one of their final four away games in the 2022-23 season and have conceded in each of their last nine on the road since a goalless draw with Crystal Palace in January.

It is nearly 12 months to the day since Newcastle and Man City played out a pulsating 3-3 draw at St James’ Park, but Guardiola’s side eased to a 2-0 victory at the Etihad in March and have not been bested by the Magpies since Rafael Benitez oversaw a 2-1 win in January 2019.

Another mouthwatering fixture in gameweek two of the 2023-24 Premier League season sees Tottenham Hotspur welcome Manchester United to their North London headquarters this evening.

Ange Postecoglou’s side began their new campaign with a 2-2 draw away to London rivals Brentford last weekend, while the Red Devils scraped a contro-

versial 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Acclimatising to life without Bayern Munich-bound Harry Kane strutting his stuff in the final third, Tottenham still adopted Postecoglou’s forwardthinking philosophy in their Premier League opener with Brentford last weekend.

Once underway, Spurs drew first blood through Cristian Romero, but their unsolved defensive issues came to the fore once again as Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa turned the tie on its head for the Bees, who were missing their own talismanic striker in the suspended Ivan Toney.

However, a fine fourth from Emerson Royal saw the two capital counterparts shake hands on a point apiece on the opening weekend - a fair result between two progressive and attackminded head coaches .

Sitting ninth in the fledgling rankings following their Gtech Community Stadium stalemate, Spurs triumphed in each of their first five home games of the 2022-23 Premier League season and also strung together a five-game winning sequence in front of their own fans between February and April.

Those green streaks paled into insignificance towards the end of the campaign, though, as Tottenham won just one of their final four home contests last term, but they have not failed to score at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the Premier League since January and will no doubt be encouraged by Wolves’ plucky display at Old Trafford.

A few lucky stars were being counted at the Theatre of Dreams on Monday evening, as Man United just about got over the line against Wolves thanks to a

Raphael Varane header, but there were concerns aplenty for Erik ten Hag as Gary O’Neil’s side launched a wave of unexpected attacks.

Andre Onana earned his keep for the most part, but the Cameroonian shot-stopper survived a heart-in-mouth moment in the dying embers, as neither Simon Hooper nor VAR official Michael Salisbury deemed his collision with Sasa Kalajdzic inside the box to be penalty-worthy.

Wolves boss O’Neil subsequently claimed that he had received an apology from PGMOL chief Jonathan Moss - another beg-pardon to add to the list and all officials involved have curiously been dropped for this weekend’s fixtures; not that the Old Trafford faithful will care.

The seventh-placed Red Devils have now prevailed in each of their last five Premier League contests on the bounce, although they ended the 2022-23 season with just three wins from their final 10 games on rival territory - a run which includes a 2-2 stalemate with Ryan Mason’s Tottenham.

Ten Hag’s side threw away a twogoal lead to draw with the Lilywhites that day, but Man United now travel to North London having avoided defeat in each of their last five matches with Tottenham, whose most recent success in this fixture was their astounding 6-1 Old Trafford triumph in October 2020.

PREMIER LEAGUE TODAY

Fulham v Brentford 15:00 Liverpool v Bournemouth 15:00 Wolvers v Brighton 15:00 Tottenham v Man Utd 17:30 Man City v Newcastle 20:00 SUNDAY

Aston Villa v Everton 14:00 West Ham v Chelsea 16:30 MONDAY

Crystal Palace v Arsenal 20:00

LA LIGA TODAY

Sociedad v Celta Vigo 16:00 Almería v Madrid 18:30 Osasuna v Bilbao 20:30 SUNDAY

Girona v Getafe 16:30 Barcelona v Cádiz 18:30 Real Betis v Atlético 20:30 MONDAY

Alavés v Sevilla 18:00

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ AUGUST 19, 2023

31

GLOBAL SOCCER

Taiwo Awoniyi’s goal yesterday was Forest’s 100th at top flight against Shefeild United

Awoniyi Propels Forest to First Premier League win of the Season Super Eagles striker, Taiwo Awoniyi’s two minutes and 23 seconds strike and Chris Wood’s late winner ensured Nottingham Forest recorded their first victory in the 2023/24 Premier League season.

Awoniyi opened the scoring for Forest heading home from Serge Aurier’s cross to give Forest an early lead.

The Nigeria’s headed goal meant he became only the second Forest player to score in six consecutive league games, following Stan Collymore, who did so in 1995.

Chris Wood headed home the winner for Nottingham

Forest in the 89th minute against Sheffield United for their first Premier League win of the season.

Wood, who had come on as a substitute, flicked a header past United keeper Wes Foderingham to send the City Ground crowd wild.

Gustavo Hamer scored a stunner on his Sheffield United debut to give the newly promoted side hope early in the second half.

Hamer, who signed from Coventry City last Friday, struck into the top corner from the edge of the box for his first goal for his new club.

United were significantly improved after going 1-0 down early on and equalised just two minutes and eight seconds after the restart.

The home form of Nottingham Forest was a huge factor in Steve Cooper’s side remaining in the league last season.

It may be key again this time around. A dominant first half showing in front of a raucous crowd should have produced more than one goal with Brennan Johnson looking particularly lively on the counter-attack.

But it was the player replacing him who gave Forest the win.

Amokachi’s Twin Son Snubs NPFL Clubs for Zambia’s NAPSA The twin son of former Super Eagles forward Daniel Amokachi, Nazim Amokachi, has made an exciting move by opting to join Zambia’s NAPSA Stars.

The forward, rather than continuing his career in the Nigerian league by joining any of the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, sides, has chosen to pursue his career outside of Nigeria’s borders.

Following in his father’s footsteps as a forward, Nazim has signed

a two-year contract with NAPSA Stars, departing from his previous club Lobi Stars in the NPFL. A press release from NAPSA Stars introduced Nazim alongside Zambia striker Saith Sakala.

Ponga Liwewe, the club’s CEO, expressed confidence in these new acquisitions, “We believe that these two exceptional players will make a big impact on and off the field, contributing to our success in the upcoming season.” He said.

Nazim, originally from Liverpool, along with his younger brother Kalim, has prior experience playing for clubs in various countries, including England, Besiktas U21 in Turkey, and JS Hercules in Finland.

This move marks an exciting new chapter for Nazim, who also holds Tunisian citizenship.

His journey with NAPSA Stars in Zambia promises to be an intriguing development in his football career.

Olise Snubs Chelsea, Extend Palace’s Contract Former Nigeria national team invitee, Michael Olise has signed a new contract with Crystal Palace amid reports linking him with Chelsea FC. It was recently reported that the Blues had activated a £35 million release clause in Olise’s previous contract with the Eagles as Chelsea look to strengthen their squad.

However, Palace have now

announced that Olise has signed a new four-year deal that will keep the attacking midfielder at the London club until June 2027.

Steve Parish, the Palace chairman said: “I’m absolutely delighted to announce (Michael Olise) has decided to commit his future to Crystal Palace football club and this afternoon signed a new four-year deal with the club.”

The France under-21 international was named as a standby for the Nigeria squad taking part in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin and Lesotho in 2021.

Olisa, 21, was born in England to a Nigerian father and a French-Algerian mother and is eligible to represent France, Algeria, England and Nigeria internationally.

For England, Spain History Beckons at 2023 Women’s World Cup England will face Spain in a massive all-European Women’s World Cup final showdown this weekend.

The Lionesses booked their place in a maiden global showpiece in emphatic style on Wednesday afternoon, toppling co-hosts Australia in Sydney.

Ella Toone’s brilliant strike gave Sarina Wiegman’s side the lead at half-time, only for

Chelsea superstar Sam Kerr to fire the Matildas back on level terms shortly past the hour mark, much to the delight of a partisan home crowd.

However, reigning European champions England just would not be denied as Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo both struck thereafter to seal a glorious 3-1 win over their old rivals on a memorable occasion.

Spain are also heading into their first ever Women’s World Cup final, having defeated Sweden in the opening last-four clash on Tuesday.

Real Madrid’s Olga Carmona, their captain, popped up with a dramatic late winner for Jorge Vilda’s team after Salma Paralluelo’s late goal had been cancelled out by Rebecka Blomqvist.

…Infantino Hails Transformation Women’s World Cup FIFA President, Gianni Infantino has said that the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 has transformed the face of women’s football and appealed to governments, member associations, broadcasters and media to help keep the momentum going towards equality once the tournament ends tomorrow.

Speaking at the opening of the Second FIFA Women’s Football Convention in Sydney, the FIFA

President thanked Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand for co-hosting “simply the best and greatest and biggest FIFA Women’s World Cup ever”.

“This FIFAWomen’s World Cup has been truly transformational, not only in Australia and New Zealand but all over the world,” he said. “In the host countries, we had almost two million spectators in the stadiums -full houses everywhere

and two billion watching all over the world and not just watching their own country but watching the World Cup, because it’s an event (where) I don’t just watch my team. It’s great sport, it’s entertaining and people love it.”

“We have to thank and congratulate Australia and New Zealand because without them this would not have been as magical.”

Masai Ujiri and Rwandan President, Kagama during the construction of Zaria Court

Masai Ujiri Unveils Zaria Court - New Vision for Africa through Sports, Culture Masai Ujiri, Toronto Raptors president and vice-chair and Giants of Africa co-founder, creates a hub for business, play, and entrepreneurship on the continent.

Ujiri broke ground on his first urban development project with a focus on community, hospitality, sports and culture.

Intended as a hub for social and cultural community gatherings and a magnet for sports enthusiasts, influencers and Africa’s booming middle class, the first Zaria Court – located within Kigali’s lively sports and entertainment district, adjacent to the newly-built BK Arena and under-construction Amahoro National Stadium – is slated to open in early 2025.

“We know that sport provides individual opportunities for work, for play and for wellness.

But this project also shows that sports can act as a catalyst for neighborhoods and for nations – jobs, businesses, and whole economies can benefit from the presence of these spaces,” Ujiri said. “We’re excited to launch Zaria Court from the heart of Kigali, where there is unlimited opportunity for youth, women and entrepreneurs, and where we have seen very successful international sporting events held. We’re looking forward to hosting Rwanda, Africa, and the world at Zaria Court Kigali.”

“We are really grateful that we have been able to work together on many things, including the Zaria Court project and the whole ecosystem built around it. It doesn’t stop here, it spreads across Rwanda, the region and our continent,” said His Excellency Paul Kagame,

President of the Republic of Rwanda. “The potential is enormous, it is actually limitless.

This kind of investment grows infrastructure, it grows economies, it contributes to tourism. The impact is much bigger than what the eyes can see.”

The project in Kigali is the first Zaria Court on the continent and is centered around an urban hospitality hub which reuses existing buildings and features an 80-room boutique hotel, restaurants, a rooftop lounge, a gym, wellness spaces, co-working spaces and a podcast studio. At the heart of the site is a multi-purpose court, which will serve as a space for sporting events, festivals, performances, markets and other events.

Zaria Court Kigali includes a vibrant retail area which will adapt to the needs of the neighborhood and visitors. Shipping containers will be repurposed into shops and other businesses, creating an environmentally sustainable retail space serving as an incubation hub, targeted at women-owned businesses and young local entrepreneurs.

Fully 70 per cent of the site is a biodiverse, sustainably designed open green space. Meant to encourage an ecosystem which includes play and rest alongside business, soothing spaces for relaxation and play areas for children are central to the plan’s design. Two five-a-side soccer pitches – available for tournaments and local leagues – are included in the green space.

Along with Ujiri, the project team brings together development experts in architecture, hospitality, sports and entertainment. It includes Kunlé Adeyemi, the founder and principal of NLÉ, an award

winning architecture, design and urbanism practice with projects across the globe. Andrew Feinstein, the project co-sponsor, is a real estate developer with experience in urban renewal projects and developing arts districts. QA Venue Solutions, responsible for the campus, is a Rwanda-based, pan African event and venue management company with a focus on the sports and entertainment ecosystem, and Aleph Hospitality, a pan-African hospitality management company with a growing pipeline of hotels across Africa and the Middle East, will look after the hotel property. Financing for Zaria Court was arranged by Bank of Kigali, Helios Sports & Entertainment Group, and a consortium of local and international investors.

The goal is to develop Zaria Courts across the continent in booming cities, with initial target markets to include Accra, Ghana; Lagos, Nigeria; Dakar, Senegal; Johannesburg, South Africa; and Nairobi, Kenya.

The potential feels limitless: Africa is the globe’s youngest continent, with a median age of 201, and is increasingly urban.

It has the fastest growing consumer class in the world, and its population will double by 2050 - with two-thirds of that growth happening in cities where Zaria Court will have a presence. Each Zaria Court is estimated to create at least 500 local jobs.

Ujiri, who grew up in Zaria, Nigeria, is the vice-chairman and president of the NBA’s Toronto Raptors. In 2003 he co-founded Giants of Africa, which aims to empower the lives of African youth through

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Salihu Lukman to Tinubu “One of the strong campaign points was that you know how to find talents…With due respect to all those you nominated, many party members and Nigerians were disappointed…definitely, no argument about talent can be sustained” –Former National Vice Chairman of the ruling APC, Salihu Lukman, punching holes in President Tinubu’s list of ministers.

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OKEYIKECHUKWU Attention, Mr. President EDIFYING ELUCIDATIONS

okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com

O

ur people say that an unmarried man of twenty who builds a mansion and invites the traditional ruler and the entire community to celebrate the fact that he now has a home will attract this unvoiced remark from most of his guests: “Ah, this young man will yet learn that it takes more than brickwork to make a home”.

In more contemporary parlance, the point being made is that there is a fundamental difference between investment in physical infrastructure and investment in human capital development.

The building of classrooms, for instance, does not automatically translate into investment in education. Classrooms, brand new desks, Smart Boards and computers fall under learning infrastructure. Teachers are the “factory workers” in every human capital development factory/industry called a school. That is why the quality of teachers, the depth of teaching, the quality of the curriculum, etc., are the real issues. Thus, I invite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his government to pay close attention to the short, medium and long-term impact of every new policy. Also not to be forgotten is the question of the sustainability of policies and programmes. The important thing is for the government not to equate record of expenditure, or its goodwill as shown in its actions and pronouncements, for evidence of positive impact on citizen welfare.

These sentiments expressed above were responsible for a piece that appeared on this page after the last Executive Council Meeting of President Buhari during his first tenure, for years ago. The government had then pulled off a cabinet decision that was hailed on several fronts as a landmark achievement. Yet it only represented the symptom of a deep national crisis that had overtaken elite consciousness on governance issues in Nigeria. The concerns raised in the article in question then are even more pertinent today, as a warning for the new government not to follow the beaten, wrong path in the same regard. The article, titled “Objection Mr. President’, had this to say: “There is an objection in principle here to any action, or policy initiatives, of the government, the President or his proxies that may not serve wider, long term, national interests. In this regard, Mr. President may wish to advert his attention to some matters of state to which one may be justified in raising some mild objections. The decision of the Federal Executive Council to spend the sum of N4.7 billion on the construction of seven Model Schools in the six geo-political zones of the country is ill advised.

The federal government can choose one Unity School from each of the geo-political zones and upgrade it to a Model School, or school of reference of some sort, instead of starting fresh school projects.

A simple costs-benefits analysis shows that N4.7 billion will go a very long way in rescuing the over one hundred now-decrepit

President Tinubu

and derelict Unity Schools in the country and increasing their carrying capacity. The old students associations and the parents of the current students who are now maintaining and sustaining these schools in the critical areas of infrastructure and learning environment should be relieved of a burden that a distant Federal Ministry of Education, a consummate cabal with impressive credentials that no minister of education can easily see through or dislodge, claims to be handling but is not.

To build new model schools is to award building contracts to “reliable” contractors.

Construction of the schools will probably take some two years, or more, to be followed by the provision of state-of-the-art amenities; which essentially boils down to a series of procurement contracts. The seven Model Schools will not make any impact whatsoever on human capital development, or contribute to the growth of education, one way or another in Nigeria in the next five years.

But upgrading some Unity School will do just that within the same timeframe. So, the proposed new schools will be nothing but a major capital project, resting on the mistaken assumption that the provision of learning infrastructure is the same thing as sustainable investment in education.

We should not be content to celebrate cash evidence of massive government investment in education, when in fact the name of the Nigerian child is being taken in vain by contractors and government jobbers. Who builds models schools without simultaneously training Model Teachers? Should part of this freshly budgeted sum of N4.7 billion not perhaps go into strengthening the National Teachers Institute (NTI), the Teachers Registration Council (TRC) and probably reinvigorating the academic content and quality of various faculties of education nationwide? Do our teacher-producing facilities not need specialized short courses on contemporary teaching and learning

paradigms and much more?

The school system is like a “factory” producing human capital for the nation. It needs “factory workers”, as well as facilities and the physical infrastructure housing all activities. Investment that focuses on factory machinery and the premises of our education industry is not the best approach to improving the quality of citizens (or “products”) we turn out. It is not enough for an investor to procure and install fine “machinery.”

The equipment will not translate to quality products, or even any products at all, except there are also competent people to handle them. A man who builds a bakery to the best global standards, complete with a service and marketing template that even the Jews would envy, but who fails to train bakers and install an efficient and effective management has invested in folly. He will have impressive installed capacity, but pitiable capacity utilization. Incompetent staff will quickly destroy the unfamiliar equipment and ruin everything.

Investment in teacher education/knowledge upgrade, up-scaling of learning outcomes and other measures that would impact the quality of products of our schools are the issues here. The expenditure of most states of the federation on education over the last twenty years of our democracy shows huge budgetary allocations to education, at the same time that we also show a precipitous decline in educational standards and learning outcomes. Some states with very high records of expenditure for classroom rehabilitation, the supply of desks, books, etc., also have the worst teacher training, school enrolment and retention records. Check the investment of the federal and state governments on the training of teachers, provision of teaching aids and more in the last 20 years. So, let us pull the blinkers off our eyes and get real.

Let us recall that the introduction of the 3-3-3-6 secondary school template was predicated on the expectation that the products of our secondary schools would be eligible for some form of employment, based on a “technical” education of sorts.

Introductory Technology (Intro-tech) came on board as a subject in our secondary schools because of this. Impressive machinery and other infrastructure for teaching the subject were also quickly imported (procurement contract). Some of the “Jakande Schools” in Lagos with their low walls had to build new halls for safe storage of the equipment.

But there were practically no teachers for the new subject anywhere. So, while we cheerfully planned for a revolutionary national human capital development outing and procured the equipment for it, while we celebrated the expected outcomes a very sound education policy, many schools could not even install the equipment, to say nothing of using them.

The equipment procured and given to schools all over Nigeria for that revolution are nowhere to be found today. The products of that revolution are also nowhere to be found today. Worse still, there is no impact on

national development, technological evolution and unemployment.

It is against the background of the foregoing that one fells constrained to say: “Objection Mr. President to the proposed Model Schools.” Increase the number and quality of teachers, expand the carrying capacity of the existing schools, and provide the necessary contemporary teaching aids and ensure security of lives and property for the students, teachers and contiguous communities. The nation is yet to recover from the debilitating impact of the brandnew universities of questionable authenticity established by the Jonathan administration.

Record of expenditure is not evidence of impact” With the above from an article that was essentially a protest against wasteful and misguided expenditure, on is again saying, here and now, that the current government must not allow itself to fall into the unfortunate trap of just rolling out records of money spent and what it was spent on. We saw enough of that in the last eight years. Tucano aircrafts and sundry rumored arms and ammunition procurements were celebrated while bandits and terrorists overran the land.

Two years before the federal government initiative under reference, the government of Kebbi State had done more or less the same thing. This was our commenent on that, back then: “A few weeks ago the government of Kebbi State approved the sum of N4.5 billion for the construction and renovations of schools. Other reports suggest that the state government is going to build brand new schools in every local government of the state. To the extent that the reports about this matter remain undenied in the media, the question to ask is this: Aren’t there other ways in which the state government can spend N4.5 billion and make better mileage in education? But more of questions later.

Speaking further on the construction and rehabilitation works, the Executive Secretary, Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) of the state, Hassan Umar, was quoted as having said: “We have already started the process. We have contract specifications and told contractors to do quality job. We have guidelines on the execution of the projects.”

Continuing, the article had this to say: “The state government (and most other state governments in the country) may wish to answer the following questions: (1) How many candidates enrolled for SSCE and related examinations in the last 10 years, and why (4) Can you say, in all good conscience that less than seventy per cent of your state’s education budget of the last 20 years have not been more of procurement contracts?

And (3) Has there been an improvement in enrolment, retention and education outcomes since the return of democracy?

In sum, President Tinubu must keep a sharp lookout for shadows that are threatening to present themselves as substance. Whether it concerns palliatives, the State of Emergency on Food Security, etc. The economic meteriologists are saying: “Watch out for clear air turbulence”.

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