SATURDAY 21TH OCTOBER 2023

Tinubu Invokes Presidential Prerogative of Mercy, Okays Partial Waiver of 'No Work, No Pay' for ASUU Members Directs release of 4 out of 8 months withheld salaries Striking resident doctors also get pay waiver Deji Elumoye in Abuja President

Bola

Tinubu

yesterday invoked the principle of presidential prerogative of mercy by approving the partial

waiver of the "No Work, No Pay" order instituted against members of the Academic Staff

Union of Universities (ASUU) in federal universities following their eight-month industrial

action that began on February 14, 2022, before its suspension on October 17, 2022.

On the same day, the Continued on page 5

Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires in Morocco, Mansur Bamalli, Dies at 42...

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Naira Sustains Weakness at Parallel, I&E Window to N1,170/$1, N808.27/$1...

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S'Court Set to Hear PDP, APP's Appeals Seeking to Remove Uzodinma Alex Enumah in Abuja The Supreme Court has indicated that it will on October 31 sit in two separate appeals seeking to nullify the eligibility of the All Progressives Congress

(APC) in the 2019 governorship election in Imo State and to remove Hope Uzodinma as governor.

The apex court made the disclosure last Monday through a notice of hearing served

on all parties in the appeal, marked SC/1384/2019 between Uche Nwosu and People's Democratic Party (PDP)/ Action People's Party (APP).

The notice dated October 16, was signed by one of the

Registrars of the apex court, A. Bature.

The PDP appeal was filed on July 9, 2020, but the Supreme Court did not give the PDP a hearing date, until this week, over three years after.

Although, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared the candidate of the PDP, Emeka Ihedioha winner of the 2019 governorship election in Imo State, the apex court, however,

in a judgement in 2020, sacked Ihedioha and declared the candidate of the APC, Hope Uzodinma as lawful winner of the poll.

Continued on page 5

Anyaoku: Nigeria Needs New Constitution to Move Forward ‫ދ‬ ‫ދ‬ I call on the Presidency in consultation with the National Assembly, instead of continuing to tinker with the 1999 Constitution, to acknowledge the urgent necessity of a new Constitution… we need a system of government that not only addresses our diversity but is also based on a Constitution that can correctly be described as a Nigerian people’s Constitution

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

Former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku yesterday declared that the way forward for Nigeria is a new constitution if the country truly desires to end the “unprecedented level of divisiveness and declining sense of national unity” among its people.

The former Commonwealth scribe made the call in Ekiti State while delivering the 2023 Convocation Lecture of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, titled, “Management of Diversity: A Major Challenge to Governance in Pluralistic Countries”.

Continued on page 5

RETREAT FOR SENATORS… L-R: Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; former president of the Senate, Ken Nnamani; President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; former presidents of the Senate, Bukola Saraki and Adolphus Wabara, at a two-day retreat for Senators of the 10th National Assembly in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State...yesterday

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2023 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

PAGE FIVE ANYAOKU: NIGERIA NEEDS NEW CONSTITUTION TO MOVE FORWARD Anyaoku said to achieve the desired transformation for the better, the country needs a system of government that not only addresses Nigeria’s diversity but is also based on a constitution that can correctly be described as the Nigerian people’s Constitution.

He said, “The essence of the new Constitution should, in recognition of the crucial principle of subsidiarity in every successful federation, involve a devolution of powers from the central government to fewer and more viable federating units with strong provisions for inclusive governance at the centre and in the regions as was agreed by Nigeria’s founding fathers.

“Nigeria successfully managed diversity in the early years of independence when “Nigeria’s diversity was perceived by all as a source of strength and an inspiration for national unity. But all this changed when the military intervened in the country’s governance in January 1966 and changed the existing constitution.”

According to him, under the Constitution, before military intervention, there was security of life and property, and there was a faster pace of economic development in the regions, adding that healthy competition among the regions facilitated rapid development across the country.

Anyaoku said, “In contrast, today if truth be told, the situation in our country is lamentable.

There is an unprecedented level of divisiveness and a declining sense of national unity; the economy is in the doldrums, with 133 million of our population in multidimensional poverty.

“There is great insecurity throughout the land as we hear every day of killings and kidnappings by unknown gunmen and marauding bandits; all our infrastructure, including power supply,

roads, and educational and health facilities, are in a poor state.

“Added to all this, there is a complete bastardisation of our society’s ethical values and an unfathomable level of corruption evident in the often-reported massive looting and mismanagement of the country’s resources, including the continuing unbridled theft of our crude oil.

“I believe that Nigeria is still salvageable. The country can still be restored to greater peace, greater security, a renewed sense of national

unity, greater political stability, and a more assured pace of economic development.

“To arrest the ongoing deterioration of the situation in the country and to achieve the desired transformation for the better, we need a system of government that not only addresses our diversity but is also based on a Constitution that can correctly be described as a Nigerian people’s Constitution.

“Accordingly, I call on the Presidency in consultation with the National Assembly, instead of continuing to tinker

with the 1999 Constitution, to acknowledge the urgent necessity of a new Constitution to be made by the people of Nigeria.”

To this end, Anyaoku advised the federal government to immediately “convene a National Constituent Assembly of directly elected representatives on a non-party basis whose task would be to discuss and agree on a new Constitution,” taking into account the 1963 and the 1999 Constitutions and the recommendations of the 2014 national conference.

“The Constituent Assembly should be given six months to produce the draft new Constitution. The agreed draft constitution should be put to a national referendum for adoption by a majority of the voters, after which it should be signed by the President.”

ABUAD Founder, Aare Afe Babalola, who hailed Anyaoku for the lecture, which he said was in tandem with his (Babalola’s) calls over the years for a new constitution to address the country’s ills.

Babalola said that Nigerian

leaders’ perception of politics as a lucrative business rather than a service to the people was among the things the new constitution would address.

Babalola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, said, “Until we change the constitution, there is no way we can achieve what we ought to achieve.

“With what we are doing here in ABUAD, a new Nigeria is being nurtured. ABUAD is producing special leaders who can change Nigeria. They are contented, reliable, kind and they believe in giving and making things better.”

TINUBU INVOKES PRESIDENTIAL PREROGATIVE OF MERCY, OKAYS PARTIAL WAIVER OF 'NO WORK, NO PAY' FOR ASUU MEMBERS President also approved the waiver of the "No Work, No Pay" order instituted against striking members of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) on August 1, 2023, following their strike which started on July 26, 2023.

The Presidency in a statement said the decision to pay ASUU members fourmonth salaries was taken “in view of his determination to mitigate the difficulties being felt during the implementation of key economic reforms in the country, as well as his recognition of the faithful implementation of terms which were agreed upon during the fruitful deliberations between ASUU and the federal government.”

The statement signed by Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, adds: “President Tinubu, has directed the grant of an exceptional last waiver of the "No Work, No Pay" Order on ASUU, which will allow for the previously striking members of ASUU to receive four months of salary accruals out of the eight months of salary which was withheld during the eight-month industrial action undertaken by the union.

“The President granted the waiver with a mandatory requirement that the Federal

Ministry of Education and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment must secure a Document of Understanding (DoU) establishing that this exceptional waiver granted will be the last one to be granted to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and all other Education Sector Unions.”

Residents Doctors Also Get Pay Waiver President Tinubu also approved the waiver of the "No Work, No Pay" Order that was instituted against striking resident doctors on August 1, 2023, following their strike on July 26, 2023.

After several constructive engagements between the federal government and NARD, the resident doctors called off their strike on August 12, 2023.

The Office of the Accountant General of the Federation was directed to withhold all salaries accrued by striking NARD members during the 17 days of their strike.

The federal government in a statement said: “In view of the faithful implementation of terms which were agreed upon during the fruitful deliberations between the resident doctors and the federal government,

President Tinubu has directed the grant of an exceptional last waiver of the "No Work, No Pay" Order on Resident Doctors, which will allow for the members of the NARD to receive the salaries which were previously withheld during the 17-day strike action.

“The President directed the grant of the waiver with a mandatory requirement that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment must secure a Document of Understanding (DoU) establishing that this exceptional waiver granted by the President will be the last one to be granted to the National Association of Resident Doctors and all other Health Sector Unions.”

President by Section 86 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (As Amended).

“President Tinubu approved of Chira's appointment after the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) conducted a screening exercise that identified him as the most qualified candidate who had also scored the highest in the examination among all qualified candidates for the office.

“The President expects the new Auditor-General to justify the confidence reposed in him and to live up to the high expectations that Nigerians have concerning the execution of the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration,” said the statement.

Chira Named New Auditor General of the Federation

New DGs for 2 Agencies in Health Sector

President Tinubu also approved the appointment of Mr. Shaakaa Chira as the substantive AuditorGeneral of the Federation, as recommended by the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC).

The appointment, according to a statement from the Presidency, was in line with the powers vested in the

Also yesterday, President Tinubu approved the appointment of two new Chief Executive Officers for agencies under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

The new appointees are Executive Secretary/CEO, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Muyi Aina and Director-General/CEO,

National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Kelechi Ohiri.

Aina is a globally renowned public health leader with a Master’s in Public Health degree from Harvard University (USA) and a Doctorate degree from Johns Hopkins University (USA), following his first medical certification at the University of Ilorin.

Ohiri until recently served as the Managing Director for Strategy at Global Alliance for Vaccines in Geneva, Switzerland.

He obtained a Master’s in Public Health degree from Harvard University (USA) and another Master’s degree in Public Policy from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government following his first medical certification from the University of Lagos.

He has obtained significant experience serving in the World Bank, McKinsey & Company, and has shaped reforms to the National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom.

President Tinubu urged the new leadership of these two critical agencies in the sector to prioritize quality, fairness, and accountability in the provision of world-class health care to all segments of the Nigerian society.

S'COURT SET TO HEAR PDP, APP'S APPEALS SEEKING TO REMOVE UZODINMA In the run up to the 2019 Imo governorship election, the APP and its Imo State Governorship candidate, Mr. Uche Nnadi and the PDP approached the Federal High Court, Abuja, seeking, amongst other reliefs, the disqualification of Ugwumba Uche Nwosu from contesting the Imo State Governorship election on the ground that he (Nwosu) was nominated by two political parties - Action Alliance (AA) and APC contrary to Section 37 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) which forbids double-nomination.

The PDP and APP won at the High court and Appeal court levels.

The apex court concurred in a December 2019 judgement that Nwosu is guilty of double nominations under the platform of two political parties - the APC and AA - a decision which led to the instant appeals.

Specifically, both the PDP and APP in these fresh appeals are asking the Supreme Court to give effect to its judgement delivered in 2019, disqualifying Uche Nwosu from the Imo governorship election on the grounds of double nomination.

The grouse is predicated on the grounds that APC cannot have the governorship in

person of Uzodinma, when the court had already voided the candidacy of Nwosu, who was nominated by the APC for the said 2019 governorship poll.

On its part, the PDP is asking the Supreme Court to return its candidate, Ihedioha as winner of the election since APC was precluded from sponsoring two candidates in the Imo State governorship election.

In an affidavit filed in support of the application which was deposed to by a legal practitioner, Adedamola Farokun, working in the Legal Department of the PDP, he averred thus:: “The third Respondent/Applicant (PDP) is neither in any way seeking a review of the valid, subsisting and well considered judgement of this court delivered in this appeal in 2019, nor seeking a review of the judgement of this court delivered on January 14, 2020 in SC/462/2019 but humbly seeking that this court give effect to its judgement delivered on December 20, 2019.

“That this court has the constitutional, inherent powers and jurisdiction to grant the reliefs sought and give effects to its judgement.

“That it is in the interest of justice for this court to

exercise its wide discretionary powers in favour of granting this application as prayed.”

The deponent, Farokun, averred that Uzodinma was not the candidate of the APC based on the court’s judgement that Nwosu was nominated by both the APC and the Action Alliance. He urged the apex court to so hold.

Besides, PDP is also asking the court for an order enforcing or otherwise directing the enforcement and or giving effect to the judgement of the court, wherein the court held that Nwosu was nominated by both APC and AA and consequently declared his nomination a nullity.

PDP is asking of the Supreme Court to hold that “both the AA and APC did not sponsor and/or field any candidate for the governorship election held in Imo State on March 9, 2019 in view of the double nomination of the Appellant/Respondent by the two political parties aforesaid, and his subsequent disqualification as their gubernatorial candidate, as found by this honourable court in its judgement.”

The party asked the court for an order sequel to the above that Uzodinma was not a candidate by himself

or of any party at the Imo State Governorship election held on March 9, 2019.

PDP also asked the court for an order directing the Independent National Electoral Commission to withdraw the certificate of return issued to Uzodinma.

It asked the court “for an order further directing the 4th respondent to issue a certificate of return to the gubernatorial candidate of the 3rd Respondent/Applicant, Emeka Ehedioha in the Imo State Governorship election held on 9th March. 2019 as the duly elected governor of Imo State, having scored the second highest number of votes in the said election sequel to the judgement of this court in Appeal No SC/1462/2019 Hope Uzodinma & Anor vs Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha & Others delivered on 14th January, 2020.”

The party further sought an order sequel to the above, directing that the said gubernatorial candidate of the 3rd Respondent/Applicant in the Imo state Governorship election held on the 9th March 2019, Rt. Hon. Emeka lhedioha be immediately sworn in as the governor of Imo State.

PDP stated the grounds for the application thus: “The court

found that the Appellant/ Respondent was nominated by both APC and AA as their gubernatorial candidate for the Imo State governorship election and conclusively held that he was disqualified by the provisions of S. 37 of the Electoral Act (as amended), for double nomination. b. That after the said election, the governorship candidate of the 3d Respondent/Applicant Rt. Honourable Emeka lhedioha, was returned by the 4th Respondent as the winner of the election and consequently sworn into office.

That subsequently, the return of the governorship candidate of the 3rd Respondent/ Applicant was challenged up to this court by one senator Hope Uzodinma who claimed to be the gubernatorial ‘candidate of the APC.’ That the Supreme Court in its judgment delivered on January 14, 2020 held that it was the said Uzodinma and not Emeka lhedioha that scored the highest number of votes in the election and ought to be returned as the duly elected governor of Imo State.

That by the clear terms of the judgement in this appeal, neither the AA nor the APC fielded any candidate for the Imo State governorship election

held on 9th March 2019 and, as such, the said Uzodinma could not have been returned as the winner of the Imo State Governorship election as a candidate of the APC. That APC could not have substituted the appellant with a view to further nominating the said Uzodinma as their candidate because that right was not available to the party under the Electoral Act. That Uzodinma could not have been a candidate in the election as an independent candidate as such right is not available to him.

That the 3rd respondent Applicant, PDP, as the main beneficiary of the judgement ought to enjoy the fruits of the said judgement.

That Rt. Honourable Emeka lhedioha, who is the candidate nominated by the 3rd Respondent /Applicant, and who scored the second highest number of votes after Senator Hope Uzodinma, from the judgement of this court ought therefore to be issued a certificate of return by the 4th respondent and sworn in accordingly.

That it will advance the cause of justice to grant this application particularly as none of the parties will be prejudiced by its grant.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 21, 2023

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NEWS

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

FCTA Threatens to Recover 111 Houses Sold to Civil Servants in Abuja Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has threatened to revoke 111 federal government residential houses that were sold to individuals under the monetisation policy initiated by the federal government but were converted for other uses.

The Director, Department of Development Control, FCTA, Mukhtar Galadima, issued the threat yesterday to maintain the sanctity of the Abuja Master Plan.

He warned defaulters that cut across all the districts of the capital city to revert to the origi-

nal land plan October 31, 2023 otherwise they should consider such properties as revoked and returned back to FCTA from November 11, 2023.

Galadima added that FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had approved and directed that all owners of such property should revert the use of the property to the designated land use plan which is residential.

He recalled that the federal government in 2005 initiated the monetisation programme/land use conversion because of the cost of maintaining the houses and explained that the houses were sold to the occupiers so that they could maintain them.

He, however, lamented that after some time, some of the beneficiaries converted the houses from residential to other uses, which constituted so much burden in terms of city administration and management that FCTA felt it could no longer condone.

“It is on this note that the minister has approved and directed that all owners of such properties should revert from the use of the properties to its original and designated land use which is residential.

“Failure to comply with this directive as from November

1, the house is considered as revoked and there will be no right over such property again.

“We are giving such persons and individuals to the end of October to revert to original uses, otherwise from November 1, they should consider such properties as revoked and

returned to FCTA,” Galadima threatened.

He also added that Wike had also directed that owners of properties, particularly along major streets that have converted their properties to other uses without approval should either revert to original use or pay

Tinubu Confirms Adeniyi as Customs Comptroller- General Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the confirmation of the appointment of Bashir Adewale Adeniyi as the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service.

The confirmation was confirmed in a statement issued yesterday by Willie Bassey, Director, Information on behalf of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

The statement which said the appointment took effect from October, 19, 2023 also added that Adeniyi’s tenure was in accordance with the extant provisions of the Public Service Rules (PSR).

The SGF said President Tinubu also asked the Customs helmsman to bring his wealth of experience to bear on his new assignment.

Adeniyi was appointed Acting Comptroller General in June 2023.

Murder in BRT: Bamise’s Death Caused by Bleeding Inside Brain, Pathologist Tells Court Wale Igbintade A pathologist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Professor Sunday Shoyemi, yesterday told a Lagos State High Court sitting at Tafawa Balewa Square, that the death of a 22-year-old fashion designer, Oluwabamise Ayanwole, was as a result of bleedings from her brain.

Shoyemi while giving evidence in the ongoing trial of a Bus Rapid Transit driver, Andrew Nice Ominnikoron, charged with rape and murder of Ayanwole, told Justice Sherifat Sonaike that after his external and internal findings, the victim’s death was as a result of craniocerebral injury (Brain dysfunction caused by an outside force, usually a violent blow to the head).

Ominnikoron is facing five counts bordering on rape, conspiracy, felony, sexual assault, and murder preferred against him by the Lagos State Government.

The prosecution told the court that Ominnikoron conspired with others now at large to rape and murdered his 22-year-old passenger.

The prosecution said that the defendant had sexual intercourse with Ayanwole, without her consent, and murdered her, at about 7p.m., between Lekki-Ajah Expressway and Carter Bridge, on February 26, 2022.

The defendant and others now at large on February 26, 2022, unlawfully killed one Ayanwole by throwing her out of a moving bus between Lekki-Ajah Expressway and Cater Bridge.

According to the prosecution, the offences committed contravened

Sections 411, 223, 260, and 165 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015.

However, the 48-year-old defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge preferred against him.

At the resumed hearing of the case yesterday Prof. Shoyemi who was led in evidence by Director of Public Prosecution, Dr. Babajide Martins, told the court that prior to the autopsy the body of the deceased had been embalmed.

He said that the body had no clothing but a silver-coloured ring was found on the middle right finger of the deceased.

Shoyemi testified that he observed a bruise on the left side of the forehead of the deceased, and another bruise on the right temple just above the ear on the right temple.

He also told the court that he observed a large bruise on the back of the skull of the deceased.

He said, “In addition, there was a bruise on the elbow region.

These findings were the external appearance.

“Upon opening, I saw what we call Subdural hematoma, which means bleeding into the soft tissue covering the skull, or bleeding into the brain. This was noticed in the frontal area as well as on the back of the skull.

“At the back of the skull, there were multiple comminuted fractures, which means bone broken into two or more pieces. There was a fracture at the temporal bone, the bone above the ear.

“I also observed the bleeding into the brain called Subdural, I checked for deep bruising, the bruising you would not be able to see under the skin excerpt the skin is removed.

FURTHERING TOURISM… Special Adviser to UNWTO Secretary General, Alhaji Lai Mohammed (second left); Director General, Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) and leader of Nigerian delegation, Mr. Folorunsho Coker (middle); Mr. Yomi Abudu of the NTDA (second right) Director International Tourism, Federal Ministry of Tourism, Ms. Dorathy Duruaku (extreme right) and other members of the UNWTO Secretariat at the 25th General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation in Samarkand, Uzbekistan…yesterday.

PDP Youths: INEC’s Statement on E-Transmission of Bayelsa Guber Results Doubtful The Peoples Democratic Party Youth Network has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to avoid subjecting Nigerians to another round of heartaches in the Bayelsa Governorship election scheduled for November 11, 2023.

The Coordinator of the group, Mr. James Oputin, said in a statement yesterday that the discordant tunes coming from INEC on the issue of the electronic transmission of results is generating so much doubts and tension.

Oputin said that while the State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Ofiong Efanga, jolted

Bayelsans by saying that INEC would adopt manual transmission of election results, the Chairman, Prof Mahmud Yakubu, has come out to overrule him.

Yakubu, had said penultimate Saturday that the results of the November 11 governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi states would be transmitted electronically.

Oputin said that the people are doubtful of INEC’s conflicting declarations from the state and the federal levels on the sensitive issue of the electronic transmission of results which is expected to drastically reduce the disturbing

incidence of electoral violence in the state.

He noted that Nigerians have not forgotten how the same INEC under Prof. Yakubu abruptly opted to transmit the Presidential election result manually after weeks of intense media reassurances to Nigerians that the election would be transmitted electronically.

He urged INEC boss to prepare the minds of the Bayelsa voters and stakeholders on what to expect as most people seem to have dismissed his statement as yet another ambush on Election Day. Oputin also called on the Bay-

elsa REC, Efanga to address the press on the disturbing conflict on the issue of the planned deployment of electronic transmission of results.

He said that it is a difficult task to convince a person who has been a victim of trust-related disappointment to believe someone carrying an albatross of trust.

Oputin, who called on Nigerians especially the media to hold INEC accountable to its promises, also urged the electoral umpire to be conscious of the corrosive effects of failed promises and dampened expectations on its image.

Scholarship: First Batch of 1001 Kano Students Depart for India Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano The first batch of the beneficiaries of the Kano State Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship numbering 150 out of the 1001 departed Nigeria to India yesterday.

Addressing the beneficiaries at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), Kano, the State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, urged them to concentrate on their studies and make Nigeria and Kano proud.

He said the scholarship award was in fulfillment of campaign promises in building on Kwankwasiyya ideology to resume scholarship awards to the best students in the state.

“This singular effort by his administration has produced many professionals and Ph.D. holders, thousands of Masters, Degree holders, thousands of professionals in medical sciences, engineering, natural sciences, pilots, maritime specialists.”

The governor said apart from the foreign scholarship scheme, the Kano State Government is committed to improving state-owned tertiary institutions through the provision of increased funding and infrastructure development for effective learning, teaching, and research.

He implored the beneficiaries of the scholarship to make the best use of the golden opportunity to excel in their fields of study by remaining committed and

respecting the laws of the land as well as norms, values, and cultures of their host communities.

Earlier in his speech, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the presidential candidate of the party in the February election, praised the effort of the state government for continuing along the same path.

He called on the beneficiaries to ensure that they live up to their expectations and become useful to their parents, relations, and the country at large.

Borno: A’ Court Reaffirms Election of PDP’s Balami for Askira-Uba

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Efforts by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to clinch the House of Representatives seat for AskiraUba/Hawul Federal Constituency of Borno State, suffered a setback as the Court of Appeal, for the second time dismissed its case against the election of Dr. Midala Balami, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The appellate court in a unani-

mous judgement yesterday, held that the case filed by Tarfaya Asarya of the APC was incompetent, lacking in merit and liable for dismissal.

According to the three-man panel, there was no reason whatsoever to set aside the judgement of the Borno State National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal which affirmed the PDP candidate as the valid winner of the House of Representatives election that was held in the constituency on

February 25.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared that Balami secured a total of 28,820 votes to defeat his closest opponent, Asarya of the APC, who polled a total of 25,383 votes.

Dissatisfied with the outcome of the election, the APC and its candidate lodged a three-ground petition at the tribunal, insisting that Balami was not a valid candidate in the election.

The petitioners, among other things, contended that the primary election the PDP conducted, which produced Balami as its candidate, was done in breach of an order of the Supreme Court.

They argued that the apex court nullified a previous primary poll the PDP held in the constituency, which initially produced Adamu Yerima as its candidate and ordered that a fresh one should be conducted within 14 days.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 21, 2023

NEWS

Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires in Morocco, Mansur Bamalli, Dies at 42 Chargé d’Affaires in the Embassy of Nigeria in Rabat, Morocco, Mansur Nuhu Bamalli, died yesterday at the age of 42.

Bamalli, who was appointed

by Muhammadu Buhari last year, was also the Magajin Garin Zazzau and biological younger brother to the Emir of Zazzau, HRH Alhaji Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli.

A statement by the media and publicity officer of the Zazzau Emirate Council, said Mansur Nuhu Bamalli died at a private Hospital in Lagos while on transit to Morocco.

According to the statement, “funeral prayers will be announced later.”

He was survived by a wife and two children.

In a swift reaction, President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sadness over the demise of Mansur.

The President sympathised, as well as condoled with the Emir of Zazzau on the passing of the Ambassador.

Apart from serving as Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires in Rabat, Morocco until his

death, Ambassador Bamalli also served in Nigerian missions across multiple continents, including Dublin, Ireland; Accra, Ghana; as well as the State House and various departments in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during his accomplished career in the

Foreign Service.

President Tinubu joined the Bamalli family, the Zazzau Emirate community, and members of the Nigerian Foreign Service in mourning the loss of the Magajin Garin Zazzau, describing the deceased Nigerian as an astute

diplomat and Foreign Service Officer.

The President noted that colleagues, friends and admirers of the departed Ambassador in the Diplomatic Service and Zazzau Emirate will always fondly remember him for his humility, kind-

ness, team spirit, dedication and resilience in the face of challenges.

He, therefore, prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the highly respected diplomat eternal rest and comfort for his family and loved ones who are grieving this irreplaceable loss.

FCDA Refutes Rumours of Planned Demolition of Abuja National Mosque Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) has debunked insinuations that FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has ordered the partial demolition of the Abuja National Mosque.

The Executive Secretary, FCDA, Shehu Hadi Ahmed, made the denial yesterday at a press conference.

He said at no time did the minister order him or any agency of government to demolish any part of the mosque, as reported in the media.

He said the board of the National Mosque led by the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, had visited Wike on Wednesday to seek clarification on the status of Plots 63 and 99.

Plot 63, which is in contention is directly opposite Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre and has a portion of it earmarked for the future expansion of the Inner Northern Expressway, (INEX) which transverses the Abuja City centre and continues to Kubwa and Dei Dei. Ahmed said the National Mosque and the National Christian Centre are national monuments that needed time for development.

“All these developments are solely on FCDA. That is why the minister ordered the Executive Secretary to brief and clear the misgivings within 24 hours.

“When the mosque authorities wanted to develop, due to future interchange that is yet to be developed, which we took note since 2020, we were yet to respond and allow them to develop. It was not their making as we were yet you take action on their request.

“A portion of their land was excised for the road project. A replacement, which the minister has already approved, is being

worked out,” Ahmed said.

He said the report that Wike ordered the demolition of any part of the mosque should be discarded as such was never considered.

Also addressing the media, Director of Finance and Administration of the National Mosque, Ambassador Haliu Shuaib and Imam of the mosque, Dr. Muhammad Kabir Adam, also debunked the news of partial demolition of the National Mosque.

“It has come to the attention of the Abuja National Mosque Management of a news item making the rounds in social and print media regarding the purported partial demolition of the National Mosque which is creating tension and anxiety amongst the Muslim Ummah in the country and beyond.

“His Royal Highness, Etsu Nupe, Chairman, Abuja National Mosque Management Board and his delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Hon. Minister of the FCT. The delegation was warmly received and the discussions were constructive as well as cordial and issues of mutual interest were discussed,” Shuaib said.

He said the minister was briefed on the development of Plot 99 and the design of the project to be executed had been approved by the Development Control Department of FCDA. “Development of Plot 63-opposite Yar’adua Centre: The Chairman also briefed the Honourable Minister that the Management of the Mosque was informed that substantial part of plot 63 had been consumed by the proposed Inner Northern Express Way. The Chairman, therefore, requested to know the current status of the plot and also that the remaining part of the plot be re-allocated to the Mosque and appropriate replacement of the lost portion be given to the Mosque and the Honourable Minister’s response was positive.”

Warri Refinery Fire Contained, Says NNPCL The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NPCL), yesterday said the fire outbreak at the Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited has been contained, describing it as “minor”, and that it would not affect the ongoing rehabilitation of the refinery.

The NPCL stated this in its official X handle with the headline: ‘Minor fire outbreak at Warri refinery contained.’, saying, “This afternoon, at about 15:02hrs, there

was a minor fire incident at the cooling tower of Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited.

“The fire which occurred as a result of ongoing welding activity at the top of the cooling tower will not affect the refinery rehabilitation project delivery schedule.

“NNPC Limited safety officers at the refinery acted immediately and put out the fire at about 15:30hrs; normalcy has since been restored.”

RELAUNCHED. . .

L-R: Head, Sales Strategy Promasidor, Oyelere Atoyebi; Brand Manager, Dairy, Oyetola Akeredolu; Assistant Brand Manager, Onga, Abimbola Oguntoye; Category Manager, Culinary Promasidor, Oladapo Oshuntoye; and Brand Manager, Onga, Yvonne Okoye at the Relaunch of Onga Chicken Cubes in Oregun Ikeja, Lagos... Yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

Ambode Mourns Olabode Agusto Bennett Oghifo Former Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, has bid farewell to Olabode Agusto, who died during the week, describing him as “an illustrious son of Lagos State.”

In a letter eulogising Agusto, whom he appointed as Chairman of the Lagos State Economic Advisory Committee, a 12-member private sector-dominated advisory body, Ambode said, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Bode Agusto, an outstanding accountant, banker, mentor and a true icon of Lagos State.

“His legacy as an eminent citizen of Lagos State and a distinguished Nigerian who was unrepentantly committed to our

nation’s economic development will forever be etched in the annals of our history.

“Bode Agusto was not only a financial maestro but also a dedicated public servant, who contributed significantly to the development of Lagos State and Nigeria. His contributions to the fields of accounting, finance and economics were quite remarkable and he played a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s economic policies. His track record in the private sector and public service earned him the national award of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR).

“As Lagos State Governor in January 2017, I’d determined that Lagos State had reached a point where we needed to bring

independent perspectives from the private sector to work with the government to jointly plan the future economy of Lagos State and re-engineer its business environment for global competitiveness and enhance opportunities for our people. I consequently set up the Lagos State Economic Advisory Committee, a 12-member private sector-dominated advisory body that comprised some of the best brains in our country and, in determining the chairmanship of the strategic committee, I turned to no other person than the late Bode Agusto and he graciously accepted unconditionally.

“The Committee served out their assignment meritoriously without demanding financial

compensation for themselves.

Such was the patriotism and selflessness that defined the man Bode Agusto.”

Lagos State and Nigeria, the former governor said, have “lost a true luminary and trail blazer.

As we mourn his exit, I extend my deepest condolences to the Governor of Lagos State, his family, loved ones, professional colleagues and the entire people of Lagos State. Let us honor his memory by continuing his legacy of service, dedication and excellence.

“Mr. Agusto has played his part in nation building and will forever live in our hearts. May his memory be a blessing that continues to inspire us to work collectively for the advancement of our nation.”

Wema Bank’s FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme In what has been termed a major move to bridge the gap in helping small businesses access much-needed funding and digital capacity development skills, Nigeria’s foremost indigenous bank, Wema Bank, and pioneer of Africa’s fully digital bank, ALAT in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria, has announced the call for entry in the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme for Youth and MSMEs. With a set goal of training

2,000,000 Nigerian youth and 1,000,000 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the nation, the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme launched on September 29th, 2023, is open to Nigerians who are interested in developing their digital skills and enhancing their business portfolios across Nigeria and beyond.

This transformative initiative offers a comprehensive range of digital skills, equipping participants

with the tools necessary to excel in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. From software engineering and product management to business analysis, cloud computing, and product design, the program will cater to a diverse spectrum of digital expertise.

Announcing the call for entries, Wema Bank’s Executive Director Retail & Digital Business, Tunde Mabawonku, said the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme is a transformative opportunity for

aspiring entrepreneurs, job seekers, and professionals across Nigeria. The programme will build a marketplace for young entrepreneurs to gain digital skills that would open doors to sustainable career development and expose small-scale business owners to funding and grants.

To be a part of this once-in-alifetime opportunity, interested participants are to register and apply on fg-skillnovation.alat. ng between 13th October, 2023 to 31st October, 2023.

IREDE Foundation Partners ACE on Limb Empowerment Project Ugo Aliogo The IREDE Foundation has partnered the ACE Handover Event to mark a significant milestone in their collaborative journey to empower champions (Child amputees) with the gift of mobility and hope through the Limb Empowerment Project.

The Executive Director of The

IREDE Foundation, Mrs. Crystal Chigbu, expressed profound gratitude to the attendees, which included the A.C.E Team, TIF Team, champions (Child amputees), caregivers, media partners, and the press.

She emphasised their shared commitment to making a lasting impact on the lives of champions.

According to Chigbu,

“Through the partnership, champions received not only prosthetic limbs but also a sense of belonging, self-confidence, and an unwavering belief in their limitless potential, adding that the collaboration serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the profound impact that can be made when individuals and organizations unite with compassion.”

Earlier in her remarks, the IREDE Foundation Operations Lead, Oluwaseun Ayodeji, welcomed everyone with honour and delight.

She highlighted the significance of the ACE project in empowering champions (Child amputees) and fostering an environment that champions inclusion and empowerment of children with disabilities.

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OCTOBER 21, 2023 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT 13

SEPTEMBER 25, 2021 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Not Again!

What a waste!

In Praise ofAccidents, President Buhari Occult Fears, Road and Widowhood in Edo

Release Robo StopPlease Ritual Attacks she be taken to an orthopedic doctor. We could only pressure the family here is a link between witchcraft accusations and widowhood in Iliya and Killings the communities. And the following incident underscores this con- to take her back to the orthopedic doctor for surgery if AfAW could pay

TW

by the EFCC, President Buhari by his action has successfully brought back to hen President Muhammadu Buhari took over the reins of the public consciousness the need to treat public funds with the highest level power on May 29, 2015, Nigeria was sadly a broken state in of transparency and accountability. many result of drew many other factors including for the cost of the procedure, which we cannot at this moment. nection.

In respects.

August,Asa arelative the attention of thebad Advocacy treasurythe looters on their for toesAlleged and at bay throughcondemns the governance and untold leveltoofthe corruption, could not from After keeping he Advocacyhefor Alleged Witches of (AfAW) Meanwhile, Advocacy Witches the acfor Alleged Witches(AfAW) case ofgovernment Mrs. Asekhamhe recent abduction Mr. EFCC, particularly, President Buhari moved to curb unnecessary spending live up to its financial obligations to citizens and service providers at both the urges the Nigerian public to stop cusation and subsequent abuse and maltreatment of Mrs. Asekhamhe.

Etsako East in Edo State. The message which was sent via WhatsApp Robo Iliya, a memberritual of habits of the nation on what economists call articles of ostentation. Part federal and state levels. attacks and killings because the notion She was accused of killing her only son through occult means. I mean, of ritual money states: “This is late Henry Asekhamhe’s mother. She has been beaten like ECWA Church in Mararaba, of the disclosures of the President’s stock taking was how the country Indeed one of the first official assignments that President Buhari carried and wealth is completely who does that?

Moreso, who imagines that a mother, a widow for aout slave in her own husband’s home in Apotse, in Ivioghe, Agenebode, Karu Local Government Area frittered away billions in foreign currency by importing goods, which can baseless. AfAW is making this call following the was the approval of billions of Naira in bailout funds to enable state that matter, herwas only son?

Accidents have rational and Etsako East Government Edo State.

HeGranting was accused of witch-be produced of Nasarawa State, is unfortunate. at home.could One ofmurder such items rice, a major staple among reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State governors payLocal something as basic asinworkers’ salaries. those bailout commonsensical causes andinto explanations.

Witchcraft them. craft sheboost lost to hernational only son in abecause ghastlythemotor accident.

I am Nigerians.

Some The unknown gunmen broke By banning rice importation the country, the Presidentisonnot oneone ofin southern Nigeria. local media reported fundsbecause was a huge security pressure of arrears Witchcraft an explanation rooted in fear and unreason. Witchcraft calling onmonthly the women’s and human rights into and abducted him. hand had saved the is nation billions in foreign currency annually. thatismembers of his the house Western Nigeria Security of unpaid salaries advocacy building dangerously all over themovements country was ato come means.

Nobodyhas uses it. Witchcraft is an imaginary crime. to her aid.

Please, I want the whole world to Apotse to ask Ivioghe Membersarrested of his family wereritualists also torAnd,an on imaginary the other hand, the President boosted domestic production Network, Amotekun, suspected ticking bomb.

Nobody youths how they knew thatwould she was theremind personyou who killed her tured.

Aso B man. community of rice and in the commits process hadit.nudged the country into self sufficiency in with the body partsThe of aentire 73-year-old Ask the naysayers and they readily of how long it only son food He also created millions of jobs for narratives young people the rice apprehended in your the took President Buhari toThis appoint his ministers andstop”. how that contributed to Of course, irrational and misguided ofinoccult harm are The suspects, in a motor accident. barbaric act must The sender attached a production. wept,who withwere some saying, “May value chain.

Boluwaji area in Ibadan, saidusthat Muslim collapse of the economy as if,who without governance was on frozen. pervasive and motivate people to attack, harm, or murder innocent video showing a woman wasministers, brutalized and lying the ground. generosity upon setayou free, is most admirable Presidentpertinent Buhari andtohis government is themyour to procure someset human body But also buying thatusnarrative amount what a famous writer, Hence, it about has become educate the public and cleric reasonaskedmay He sent a photowould showing thetowoman being Nigerian supported by two Whatpeople. good heart you free, its frugal management of scarce national resources to It attain optimum goals. parts for rituals.

Ritual attacks Chimamanda Adichie, “the danger of a single story”. Yet the whole them out of these superstitious beliefs. is important to dispel irrational relatives as she triedtermed to walk. may the good Lordare go widespread before you”.

Recall that sinceand President Buhari stepped in theissaddle, oil revenue in Nigeria. Irrational of how to story was thatMrs many of our citizens did not know howinjuries, decrepit ashe state beliefs misconceptions.

There no evidence thatdropped people can harm Although Asekhamhe sustained serious did not die.

This is notconceptions the first kidnapping as if through to sabotage him knowing all theorbig promises he made to Such claims makeare money or become wealthy and successful President Buhari inherited in 2015. others magical, spiritual, supernatural means.

A relative intervened, rescued and took her to the hospital for some abysmally incident in the community.

Aso B is citizens during his campaigns. But with the little resources that trickle in, the undergird these atrocities. Many Nigerians It was therefore necessary for him to take stock against the background based on ignorance and blind faith. Traditional, Christian, and Islamic treatment. Some days later, this relative sent us an update: “Good a small community but every kind President is achieving what governments that received oil windfalls could strongly believe in blood money, known in of the fact that the departing government did not, reportedly, cooperate full clerics evening, the case that I reported you, that is the handover case of a not dream of crime happens majority of. and diviners peddle these irrational beliefs; they reinforce these some local languages as Ogunthere Owoas(Yoruba) well with about the incoming government in terms to of leaving workable baseless claims. so-called and women And claim that there woman who was accused of witchcraft subsequently beaten of (Igbo). the youths idle.that I am calling the trains are up These and running dailygodmen from Abuja to Kaduna. or Ogwu ego Theyare think they notes. Although President Goodluck Jonathan and was gracious in defeat, manyup by Today, are principalities and powers, blood-sucking demons on the streets and become some youths.

The youths almost beat her to death.

I rescued her and on rich, the Commissioner of Policeritual in from Lagos to Ibadan a brand new rail track was started and completed; could or successful through of his appointees were still sulking over what they saw as their personal and they cause Buttwo there is nothing like that.sacrifice.

These Unfortunately, took the hospital where she to is make receiving is a citizenshighways, Nasarawa State fast are already commuting daily toaccidents. and fro these major cities in the this to is please not theact case. lossesher andto therefore pulled all the stops thingstreatment. difficult forToday the must called they be And exposed to wealth week this incident. She is still in the hospital. I am calling on thecountrycharlatans and ensure the in release of Robo Iliya. seamlessly as theybe reap from to theorder; dividends of should democracy. with and held Ritual has no basis reason, science, Buharisince government. general public help bring those who assaulted her to justice.

This the wayaccount.

Awunah Piusknown Terwase, Mpape, this government is going, before 2023 when the President would or reality. Home movies as Africa Even with theto obvious and unpatriotic obscurantist behaviour of the PDP entire country would linked byfor railAlleged with all of its economic magic or Nollywood films have not helped appointees theirwidow. supporters in government making Leo Igwe directs the be Advocacy Witches woman is and a poor Shestill has no child, nohell-bent son toon fight for her”. leave, the Abuja matters. These movies continue to reinforce things difficult for the President moved on with We phoned to Buhari, the commissioner of police in his methodical repair advantages. these mistaken notions and other superstitions. of a broken country. of TheEdo firstState thing but he did identify Benin, the capital hewas didtonot pick all possible sources Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja Families, churches, mosques, and other public of income to the nation and the directed all inflows up.

We later spoke with statethat police publicbe institutions do not encourage the interrogation paid into one single account in line witha the policy of relations officer who advised that complaint of these traditional occult beliefs. There are Single Treasury Account (TSA). be lodged at the area command in Auchi. We T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R T H E S AT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these The TSA policy, interestingly, was mooted by the EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE informed the relative accordingly. We were also he Victorian (Australia) Upper House EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE irrational and paranormal claims in schools, PDP government but its penchant for imprudence AHAMEFULA OGBU DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU DEPUTY EDITOR informed that another organization, Braveheart has just voted 86-2 So on millions banning of the colleges, and universities.

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO and lack of accountability denied it the courage of MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO Initiative, was working with the Edo State com‘Hitler Salute’ with penalties of finesthey DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU Nigerians grow up blindly believing that implementing the policy. What the President literally DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU missioner social welfare gender issues of more thanthrough $23,000 or 12 months CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI could make money ritual sacrificeinof did was to for gather all the nation’sand money into one box EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN and the state police address the prison.body Whatparts. is surprising is that human The belief has two led people many and locked it up with acommand big padlocktoand watched for MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE issue.

Early in September, AfAW received this voted against it whereas all and of the main Nigerians to commit crimes perpetrate any thief to come close.

THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE update from the the relative: “I have takendeveloping her from parties acted as Nigerians one to banhave it. been jailed atrocities.

Many Who can blame President for almost or are undergoing court trials due to their ritualparanoia over the safeguard of the national treasury the central hospital to a traditional medical center Politicians are elected to represent related attacks and could murder. withtreatment. revelationsFirst, and reports of mind-boggling looting for we took her to an orthopedic electorate so who believe that most T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D Not too thewould policewant arrested some that took place the 16 years of would the PDP?carry With out a doctor and heinsaid that they people in long their ago, region to allow 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 young Nigerians fortostealing female pants, such disclosures of how billions meant for fighting EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA surgical procedure and it would cost about 3.5 this symbol of evil be legal?

Yes, there are GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, which intended to use forbut ritual insurgency in the Northeast ended in the pocketsdocof GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, million naira.

We took her to aup tradomedical a fewthey misguided individuals, it issacrifice. only ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI AfAW asking Nigerians a few individuals ourN250,000. gallant soldiers with tor who chargedwhile about The fought Braveheart a veryisfew and all their views ontoa desist range from of DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE ritual-related abuses because ritual money bare hands and on empty stomach, President Buhari Initiative paid a part of the bill, N174,000 for the matters are generally seen to be abhorrent to DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI beliefs are baseless superstitions.

Nigerian was duty bound to bring sanity and accountability back SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH treatment at the central hospital. I paid the balance the majority. media, schools, and colleges should help in national spending.

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI of N152,000.

Now I am unable to pay for the Democracy shouldthe represent even those educate and reorient public.all They should Thus, under President Buhari, the Economic and CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI treatment that she is currently receiving.

I need that want to destroy it but there must be assist in reasoning Nigerians out of this Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO your assistance this andupGod bless some limit. killer-superstitious absurdity and nonsense. remained comatose fortime, years, Thanks was woken to resume TO SEND EMAIL: firstfirst name.surname@thisdaylive.com TO SEND EMAIL: name.surname@thisdaylive.com you all”.

The AfAW would support the treatment Dennis Melbourne, Australia Leo IgweFitzgerald, directs the Advocacy for Alleged its duties. Apart from the trillions of Naira of looted of Mrs.and Asekhamhe although we would prefer that Witches (AfAW) funds property recovered from corrupt politicians

TT

Don’t Salute

T

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 21, 2023

14

NEWS

Naira Sustains Loss at Parallel, Official I&E Window to N1,170/$1, N808/$1 Nume Ekeghe

N885/$1 while the lowest spot rate recorded was N700/$1.

The slide continued further The Naira sustained its slide against the dollar as at the parallel market with the it weakened further at the Naira trading at N1,170/$1 SDUDOOHO DQG R΀FLDO , ( compared to N1160/$1 window where it exchanged recorded from the previous at N1170/$1 and N808.27/$1. day.

1RWDEO\ WKH R΀FLDO , ( 7KH R΀FLDO , ( ZLQGRZ at N808.27 depreciated from window reported a daily N782.68/$1 it closed the previ- volume turnover of $79.26 ous day. However, intra-day million a 18.69 per cent trade from the data obtained decline compared to $97.47

by FMDQ showed that the million, it recorded the previhighest spot rate exchanged at ous day.

TECH SAVY… L_R: Founder/CEO, Flutterwave, Olugbenga Agboola; West Africa Correspondent, Financial Times, Aanu Adeoye; Global Chief Marketing Officer, PalmPay, Sofia Zab; and CEO, Sparkle, Uzoma Dozie, at the Moonshot Conference by TechCabal at the Eko Hotels, Lagos...recently

/RVV RI &RQÀGHQFH LQ WKH -XVWLFH 6HFWRU 5HFLSH IRU $QDUFK\ -XVWLFH 7VRKR :DUQV Okon Bassey in Uyo

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has warned that ORVV RI FRQÀGHQFH LQ WKH MXVWLFH system is a recipe for anarchy.

Justice Tsoho gave the warning in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital while speaking at the 2023 sensitisation seminar organised by Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) IRU )HGHUDO +LJK &RXUW MXGJHV +H VWUHVVHG WKDW MXGJHV PXVW seriously guard against delays

Armed Men Kill 10 in Otukpo Bank Robbery George Okoh In Makurdi

Ten persons have been reported killed as armed UREEHUV DWWDFNHG ÀYH FRPmercial banks in Otukpo in %HQXH 6WDWH \HVWHUGD\ in the dispensation of Justice RI HQVXULQJ ÀQDQFLDO VWDELOLW\ FRQÀGHQFH LQ %DQNV DQG RWKHU Among those killed were for the system to move fast.

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RI FRQÀGHQFH DQG WUXVW LV QHFHVmoney supply to drop, leading “Judges must seriously guard sary to assuage growing and to rise in unemployment. against available delays in the strident fears by depositors about ´/RVV RI FRQÀGHQFH LQ WKH GLVSHQVDWLRQ RI MXVWLFH internet fraud, insider dealings, MXVWLFH VHFWRU LV D UHFLSH IRU “The importance of the and tampering with depositor’s anarchy. Strengthening deposi- VHPLQDU IRU MXGJHV RI WKH money, mismanagement, security Fidelis David in Akure WRUV· FRQÀGHQFH LQ EDQNV DQG Federal High Court on Deposit of such monies and items of RWKHU ÀQDQFLDO LQVWLWXWLRQV Money Insurance as drawn out value and other deposits in the Following the expiration of through speedy dispensation from the theme of the seminar, custody of the banks and other the 24 hours ultimatum given depositors’ ÀQDQFLDO LQVWLWXWLRQV µ RI MXVWLFH UHPDLQV D YLWDO SDUW ‘Strengthening to the Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, to address the people of the state and a three-day ultimatum to return to the state or resign his position, the Youth Wing of the Peoples party. %ROD )RODULQ :LOOLDPV against any of the requests, as Democratic Party (PDP) in When the case was called, Mr. the court may decide.

During the proceedings, the state has written to the 0U (EXQ 2OX $GHJERUXZD Akinde informed the court that However, Mr. Adegboruwa state House of Assembly to led Mr. Aramide Adeogun necessary tests and examina- informed the Coroner that the invoke Section 189(4) of the DQG 0U (]HNLHO 1QDGL IRU WKH tions have been conducted on complainant would love to call 1999 Constitution as amended father of the deceased, Mr. the corpse whereby there is a the medical director of Hobitox on the governor.

2OXPX\LZD $NLQ %ULJKW EHLQJ post-mortem report.

The PDP had on Monday Medical Centre where the dethe complainant. +H VWDWHG WKDW WKH R΀FH RI FHDVHG ZDV ÀUVW DGPLWWHG DQG staged a protest demanding Mrs. Abiodun Kolawole the Attorney General is aware treated, the doctors that treated the whereabouts of Governor represented the African Women of letters from solicitors to the the deceased in LASUTH and Akeredolu who returned to Lawyers Association while Mr. father of the deceased seeking all policemen involved in the the country on September 7 O.A. Akinde, state counsel to preserve the corpse while the investigation in order to have after his three months medical from the Ministry of Justice mother seeks the release of the a proper understanding of leave in Germany, but the represented the Lagos State corpse to her for burial. what actually happened to Zonal Youth Leader of the Government, as an interested $3& .RODGH 3DͿ /DZDO He added that the state is not the deceased. swiftly said the governor has not breached any law by working from his residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

However, following the ex-

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The Coroner’s inquest into circumstances surrounding the death of 12-year-old boy, Master $GHEROD $NLQ %ULJKW ZKRVH intestine went missing during surgery in a hospital and later died at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) commenced yesterday at 0DJLVWUDWH &RXUW %RWDQLFDO *DUGHQV (EXWH 0HWWD /DJRV The Coroner Court was under District Coroner, Mrs.

Niger Delta Ex-militant Leaders Warn Etiaba Denies Accusing Damian Dodo, 6KHLNK *XPL RYHU $QWL :LNH &RPPHQWV Tribunal Judges of Corruption, Apologises Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

([ PLOLWDQW OHDGHUV IURP the Niger Delta region have GHVFULEHG DV ´SURYRFDWLYHµ the recent statements by Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi against the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

They also warned Sheik Gumi and his cohorts against actions that will undermine the peace and WUDQTXLOLW\ EHLQJ HQMR\HG or provoke the people of the Niger Delta region.

They also called on 3UHVLGHQW %ROD 7LQXEX DQG the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dele Alake, to take aggressive action on resource control

robbers stormed the banks at about 4:30pm with superior weapons.

Casualties were taken to nearby hospitals. When FRQWDFWHG WKH %HQXH VWDWH police command PRO, DSP 6HZXHVH $QHQH FRQÀUPHG the incident. She said police had started investigating the incident.

with the revenues from gold and other mining activities from the North be forcefully demanded and be domiciled in the national treasury.

The ex-militant leaders under the auspices of the Movement for the Sustainable Development of the Niger Delta (MSDND) in a statement issued via electronic mail and signed by its National Coordinator, Chief Ayibatekena Olodin, expressed the suspicion that Sheik Gumi, like in WKH VKDPHIXO GD\V RI %RNR Haram killings, is allegedly representing groups of corrupt individuals who plunged FCT into an abysmal state.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

that the All Progressives Congress (APC) counsel, $ VHQLRU ODZ\HU (FKH]RQD (WLDED SUHVHQWHG WZR (WLDED 6$1 KDV H[SUHVVHG petitions allegedly written regrets over the misinforma- by his clients accusing the tion arising from a session at three-member panel of being the Imo State Assembly and compromised.

National Assembly tribunal It also accused Dodo, sitting in Lagos, wherein whom the report alleged he allegedly accused Mr. to be counsel for one of Damian Dodo (SAN) and the appellants of being the WKH MXGJHV RI FRUUXSWLRQ conduit to reach the panel In a statement, the lawyer KHDGHG E\ -XVWLFH 'DQMXPD explained that at no time Mohammed, the presiding during the sitting did he MXGJH RI 0DNXUGL 'LYLVLRQ insinuate that Dodo bribed of the Court of Appeal.

WKH MXGJHV QRWLQJ WKDW WKH %XW (WLDED ZKR GHVFULEHG situation never arose since Dodo as a man of unblemthe senior lawyer (Dodo) ished legal record, stated wasn’t even a counsel in that he did not mention the content of the said letter, the case.

A report by a national let alone accuse anybody newspaper had indicated of bribery.

piration of the ultimatum, the PDP youth group at a press conference held at the party secretariat in Akure yesterday, said the continued stay of the governor in his Ibadan residence, instead of Ondo State where he was elected to govern shows that he’s not PHGLFDOO\ ÀW Mr. Akintade Tayo, who spoke on behalf of the youth called on the State Assembly to set up a Medical Panel to ascertain Akeredolu’s medical status and do the needful in the interest of the people of the state.

His words: “You are aware we started this ‘Akeredolu Must Resume or Resign’ struggle on Monday where we gave him a three-day ultimatum to resume or resign but up till now, we are yet to see him. Therefore, we’ve written to the state assembly to invoke Section 189(4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which states that:

Africa Business Media Innovators Forum to Convene Leaders Globally The media, business, government, technology, and community leaders from across Africa, the United States and beyond will convene in Cape Town, South Africa, to participate in the DQQXDO $IULFD %XVLQHVV 0HGLD ,QQRYDWRUV $%0, IURP 2FWREHU 30 to November 1, 2023.

The forum will be co-hosted E\ WKH &KLHI ([HFXWLYH 2IILFHU %ORRPEHUJ 0HGLD 0 6FRWW +DYHQV (GLWRU LQ &KLHI (PHULWXV %ORRPberg News, Matthew Winkler, and Corporate Philanthropy Middle (DVW DQG $IULFD %ORRPEHUJ (UDQD Stennett.

This year’s convening returns to South Africa, which was the LQDXJXUDO KRVW RI $%0, LQ resuming in person for the first time since 2019. This sixth edition of the forum follows successful gatherings in Senegal (2019), Zambia (2018), Ghana (2017), Kenya (2016), South $IULFD DQG WKH YLUWXDO ¶$%0, Chats’ series in 2020 and 2021.

According to the organisers of the forum, leaders at this year’s convening will examine innovative business solutions, re-shaping and contributing to the future of media DQG MRXUQDOLVP ERWK LQ $IULFD DQG globally.

15

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 21, 2023

RingTrue 08054699539

yemi.adebowale@thisdaylive.com

Yemi

Adebowale

Posh Vehicles for Pampered Federal Lawmakers

P

resident Bola Tinubu’s infamous July 31 speech on the economic crunch Nigerians are facing still resonates. The President declared: “Our economy is going through a tough patch and you are being hurt by it. The cost of fuel has gone up. Food and other prices have followed it. Households and businesses struggle. Things seem anxious and uncertain. I understand the hardship you face. I wish there were other ways. But there is not. If there were, I would have taken that route as I came here to help not hurt the people and nation that I love.”

The President thereafter offered, in the immediate, to reduce the burden “our current economic situation has imposed on all of us, most especially on businesses, the working class and the most vulnerable among us.”

Burden on all of us? Clearly, the economic crunch has not imposed a burden on “all of us” as alleged by Tinubu in that speech.

The President’s assertion is a ruse. This is because the dominant actors in the Executive and Legislative arms of governments are still living very big and unfettered by the economic crisis. There is no load on them.

This group of Nigerians don’t even know that there is anything called economic crisis.

Check out their chubby looks. That was why the Senate and the House of Representatives shamelessly announced early this week that they had purchased 109 Toyota Land Cruisers for senators and 360 Toyota Prado for House of Representatives’ members as official cars. It’s a once in four years ritual regardless of the state of Nigeria’s economy.

The distribution of the N57.6 billion posh vehicles would start soon.

This expensive procurement is happening amid the burden imposed on over 200 million Nigerians by the economic crunch.

These lawmakers are heartless. In this same country, many go to bed without meals and get up not sure of breakfast. Many homes are in disarray, no thanks to the economic mess. Millions of Nigerians have lost jobs to the economic crisis. Hunger, poverty, unemployment and disease pervade the country, with inflation at frightening 26.72 per cent. Then, these coldblooded lawmakers get up to announce the purchase of N57.6 billion vehicles. This is a clear case of man’s inhumanity to man.

Former minister of education, Oby Ezekwesili, captures this national tragedy aptly: “You all had the audacity to spend scarce public resources on luxury cars at a time majority of your citizens cannot feed, transport themselves, pay school fees and hospital bills due to the cost-of-living crisis. At this stage, it is evident you want to continue with your serial bad behaviour. Since not even one of you saw the heartlessness of that decision to buy new Toyota SUVs for yourselves at this time of severe economic distress of the citizens and country, please know that you all are the biggest threat to our democracy.”

The former minister also warned the lawmakers that their actions will result in citizens collectively rising up to chase “irresponsible and insensitive people out of office.”

Then came this humorous stance from the Labour Party’s National Chairman, Julius

Buying official vehicles for federal lawmakers is absolutely unnecessary. They should not even be talking about this because they get what they call “monthly running cost” running into several billions of Naira. Each senator receives N13.5 million monthly as running cost. Add salary to it and it will jump to about N14.5 million monthly.

Those in the House of Representatives each get N9.5 million monthly as running costs. Add salary and it will jump to about N10.2 million monthly for each of them. So, federal lawmakers should buy their vehicles from the illegal running cost Abure. He wants its members in the National Assembly to “kick against this unnecessary wastage of resources in line with the ideology of the party which is social justice and equal opportunity for all” by rejecting the vehicles.

Abure added: “Nigerians will hold them (LP lawmakers) responsible if they fail to live above board or give proper account of the electoral investment reposed in them. The poor must be allowed to breathe again in this country. It is saddening that with deepening poverty among Nigerians the administration has decided to increase its appetite for a life of opulence to mock hardworking but underprivileged Nigerians.”

Well, this will never happen. Abure is day-dreaming. The LP lawmakers will never reject the vehicles. When it comes to milking our commonwealth, all the members of the National Assembly unite. At this stage, no lawmaker talks about belonging to APC, LP or PDP. Nobody talks about North or South.

Members of the ludicrous ruling party also simply bury their “change” mantra and enjoy the draining of our commonwealth.

For me, buying official vehicles for federal lawmakers is absolutely unnecessary. They should not even be talking about this because they get what they call “monthly running cost” running into several billions of Naira.

Each senator receives N13.5 million monthly as running cost. Add salary to it and it will jump to about N14.5 million monthly. Those in the House of Representatives each get N9.5 million monthly as running costs. Add salary and it will jump to about N10.2 million monthly for each of them.

Thanks to the senator who represented Kaduna Central in the 8th National Assembly, Shehu Sani. But for him, we would not have these facts and figures. So, federal lawmakers should buy their vehicles from the illegal running cost.

Another vital point to note is that the official vehicles allocated to the lawmakers every four years as part of their emolument by the management of the National Assembly

is an illegality and a blatant contravention of Section 70 of the 1999 Constitution. It has no such power under the law. The law states: “A member of the Senate or of the House of Representatives shall receive such salary and other allowances as Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission may determine.”

I can clearly remember that in 2018, Justice Chuka Obiozor held that, “The National Assembly Service Commission has no power whatsoever to fix and determine or allocate the remuneration, allowances, salaries, emoluments or monetary values to the members of the national assembly.”

Federal lawmakers have become a burden on this country for too long. They are usually in the two chambers basically to fill their pockets. In the 2023 budget alone, the National Assembly will gulp N298 billion. That is, the 469 legislators, the civil servants and the two agencies under the National Assembly will gulp N298 billion in 12 months. Trust me, these hawks will get this money out in full.

In traumatised mother Nigeria, the National Assembly is one of the places for amassing megabucks. This has been the pattern in the last 24 years of democracy.

The lawmakers feed fat while the masses of the people they represent wallow in abject poverty. This luxury must not continue in a country with a comatose economy, where millions of graduates roam the streets without jobs. It is also necessary to stop these heartless payments so that the National Assembly would be attractive only to people with ideas; not people that are after megabucks.

No doubt, our lawmakers need to cover running costs on things like travels, medicals, consultancy, maintenance of constituency offices, visits to constituency, office work and maintenance of facilities in their offices at the National Assembly and constituencies.

They also need good money to effectively carry out their oversight functions. However,

Tinubu’s 2 Awkward Appointments

Y

es, President Tinubu buckled to wise counsel on Thursday and cancelled the appointment of 24 years old Imam Kashim Iman as Board Chairman of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), but the absurdity lingers.

The appointment left me trembling. How could it have happened? Is Tinubu just approving appointments without having them scrutinised? Was he just desperate to satisfy his crony? These were some of the questions I have spent quality time trying

to find answers to without result.

A boy that finished NYSC last year, and has never worked even as an officer anywhere in his life, was suddenly announced as a Board Chairman. What then will he bring to the table? Imam certainly lacks the experience and capacity for the job. A boy that should still be under tutelage; somebody that should still be enjoying feeding bottle, was chosen to chair a Board. Where is the sense in this? This decision, though now reversed, remains an embarrassment to this country. The President must fashion out a

better way of scrutinizing his appointees before announcement.

There is this other man, 32 years old Khalil Suleiman Halilu, appointed as Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI). This is another awkward appointment. Halilu is an Eaglet CEO! At 32, he lacks the experience and capacity for the job. Forget about his garnished CV. Experience matters a great deal. It is a key factor in leadership. Today, I’m challenging Tinubu to also reverse this balderdash.

continuation of these monthly humongous figures can’t fly amid suffering in our land.

In 2012, the United Kingdom-based Economist magazine concluded that Nigerian lawmakers were the highest paid in the world.

This must not linger. These lawmakers must sacrifice their comfort in this era of despair. I believe that the bureaucracy of the National Assembly should be allowed to handle the travels and medicals of these lawmakers to end abuse and corruption in the process. Yes, the bureaucracy would try to drag them back with bottlenecks, but with reformist leaders, these bureaucrats will fall in line.

The 10th National Assembly must cut its expenditure in the interest of Nigerians.

They must cut down and free the funds for projects that will directly touch the lives of the masses of the people. Our dear legislators of the 10th Assembly must subject themselves to greater austerity measures in an era of economic depression. All outflows to the legislators must also be transparent. Cost cutting must apply to legislators at all levels of government.

While tackling our lawmakers, we should also interrogate the Executive arm of government at all levels regarding running cost. They still access frightening running costs amid so much poverty in this country. Many will be shocked if they know what ministers, heads of departments and agencies draw as running cost monthly. Ministers rock around with a convoy of vehicles, with policemen, drivers, soldiers and all manner of aides.

Needless Removal of Abubakar At CAC

Abubakar

T

he abrupt removal of Garba Abubakar as Registrar General of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is a set back to the gains the agency made under his leadership. Under four years, the reformist Abubakar has almost fully turned the CAC to an agency where things work in line with global standards.

Virtually all bureaucratic bottlenecks were removed and the CAC became a global reference agency.

Abubakar championed the reforms on ease of doing business particularly in the areas of electronic registration, consolidation of registration forms, integration of the CAC registration portal with the FIRS stamp duty portal, reduction of registration fees, and direct registration by first directors/ subscribers.

Forget about the workers celebrating Abubakar’s sack. These are people affected by his anti-corruption drive in the CAC. They are also opposed to change. Abubakar stopped “business as usual” and profligacy at the CAC. If Tinubu truly wants to turn around this country, the likes of Abubakar must be brought on board.

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SATURDAY OCTOBER 21, 2023 • T H I S D AY

SATURDAY OCTOBER 21, 2023 • T H I S D AY

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 21, 2023

18

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Rema Storms Lagos, Abuja, Benin Ferdinand Ekechukwu

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fropopartist Remaissetforanunparalleled music experience billed to ignite three cities in Nigeria - Abuja, Benin, and Lagos - with a series of electrifying performances.

Presented by Verse, the Rema Live events promises to be the highlight of the year for the artiste, creating waves of excitement among music enthusiasts across Africa and beyond.

The Rema Live will kick off in the capital city, Abuja on the 17th of December. The beats will resonate through the air at Eagle Square, promising a night of rave experiences and pure entertainment. Rema, known for his dynamic stage presence and chart-topping hits, will captivate the hearts of fans in Abuja, setting the stage for an unforgettable musical journey.

The festivities continue as Rema returns to his roots for a grand celebration in Benin on the 24th of December. The

cultural city will come alive with the sounds of Afrorave and the extraordinary talent of Rema. The event, to be held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, is not just a concertbutahomecomingtributetoaproudsonofthesoil.

The Rema Live series will reach its zenith in Lagos, the entertainment capital of Nigeria. Rema will take the stage, creating an electrifying atmosphere as he performs his chart-toppers and latest tracks on the 26th of December, Eko Energy City will host this epic finale, giving ravers a night that promises to be nothing short of epic.

Since his debut, Rema, born Divine Ikubor, has taken the music world by storm with his unique sound and global appeal. His performances are a fusion of energy, talent, and a deep connection with his audience. From “Dumebi” to “Calm Down,” (amassing over 1.5b streams making him the most streamed African artists ) and selling big stages in the Us, India and Europe Rema has become a force to be reckoned with, earning accolades and admiration worldwide.

Rema

Adetiba Concludes Shooting of New Movie

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Adetiba

hen renowned filmmaker Kemi Adetiba landed her current Netflix deal including her forthcoming title, ‘To Kill A Monkey’ (TKAM), an excited Adetiba, known for films such as ‘The Wedding Party’ and ‘King of Boys’, took to her social media handles to share the news accompanied by a video of a package from the streaming giant.

Interestingly, the award-winning movie director/producer who seem to have been quiet since her last blockbuster - KOB 2 series, on Sunday October 15 wrapped principal photography for

the TKAM, according to numerous clips she reposted on her Instagram Stories. The production ran its course for almost three months after it began shooting on August 7.

‘To Kill A Monkey’ is one of the three titles the filmmaker has in store. In her words, “Starting with ‘To Kill A Monkey’ – A crazy story God put in my head out of nowhere, the morning of my engagement.

And I can’t wait for you guys to see it. If you’ve ever trusted me before, triple that trust, because ‘TKAM’ is something” A crime thriller, written and directed by Adetiba, in collaboration with

Remi Adetiba, the TKAM which comes in series cast some of Nollywood’s finest, including Stella Damasus, Ireti Doyle, Bimbo Akintola, Michael Ejoor, Chidi Mokeme, Bucci Franklin, Sunshine Rosman, Lilian Afegbai, Teniola Aladese, William Benson Chinoyenem and Damilola Adegite.

TKAM which is one of seven Nigerian film titles announced by Netflix in August 2023, is expected to premiere early 2024.

It is also one of the three movies Adetiba announced previously in her exclusive deal with Netflix. The other two are Welcome to The Fourth and King of Boys 3.

Jemima Osunde, Adesua Etomi Wini Lizbet Comes Through Unveil Beauty Brand With ‘On A Daily’ Tosin Clegg

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SATURDAY OCTOBER 21, 2023 • T H I S D AY

19

20

SATURDAY OCTOBER 21, 2023 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 21, 2023

AUTO WORLD

21

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

TIPS OF THE WEEK

5 Things You Need To Stop Doing If Your Car Has An Automatic Transmission

L-R: Wife of Chairman/CEO of Innoson Vehicles, Mrs. Ebele Chukwuma; CEO of Innoson Vehicles, Dr. Innocent Chukwuma; and Director, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, South-east, Fred Akingbesote, who represented the Director General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke during the presentation of the ISO 9001:2015 Certificate to Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Limited in Nnewi, Anambra State, as the company celebrated its 13th anniversary… recently

Innoson Celebrates 13th Anniversary, Accrued Benefits of ISO 9001:2015, MANCAP, Certification from SON

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t was multiple celebration for Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM) in Nnewi, Anambra State recently, as the company celebrated its 13th anniversary that was sweetened E\ WKH DZDUG RI WZR FHUWLÀFDWLRQV the Innoson Vehicles ISO 9001 2015 Quality Management System and MANCAP &HUWLÀFDWHV WR ,QQRVRQ 9HKLFOH 0DQXIDFWXULQJ Co Lid by the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON).

The Chairman/CEO of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Co Limited, Chief Dr. Innocent Chukwuma said the company’s achievement was “In Pursuit of Perfection”, stating that 621·V FHUWLÀFDWHV ZHUH ´DFFUXHG EHQHÀWV µ The occasion was remarkable, noted the Director General Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke at WKH SUHVHQWDWLRQ RI WKH FHUWLÀFDWHV WR ,90 Okeke, who was represented by the Director of SON, South-east, Fred Akingbesote, stated that “By this achievement, your organisation

has joined a few privileged classes of ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System certiÀHG RUJDQLVDWLRQV LQ WKH ,QGLJHQRXV 9HKLFOH Manufacturing Sector in Nigeria. This milestone achievement in the pursuit of service and product excellence is commendable and worthy of emulation by all organisations in Nigeria.” +H VDLG ´7KH ,62 V\VWHP FHUWLÀFDtion is a demonstration of your Management system’s conformity to internationally acceptable standard requirements and the ability of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing /LPLWHG WR JHW LW ULJKW WKH ÀUVW WLPH DQG always.”

The Indigenous Vehicle Manufacturing sector in which Innoson operates “is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by ever-changing end-user requirements and global trends.

These unending changes and global trends bring a host of new opportunities as well as a range of new challenges. The ongoing challenges require you to be creative in your product and service delivery.”

+H VDLG ´%HLQJ RQH RI WKH YHU\ IHZ FHUWLÀHG Indigenous Vehicle Manufacturing companies in Nigeria, you will agree with me that your biggest challenge in this endless journey to H[FHOOHQFH LV WR GLUHFW \RXU HͿRUWV WRZDUGV WKH delivery of consistent customer satisfaction.

“Your service and products are extremely important to Nigeria, especially in the face of the prevailing economic challenges in the country and competitiveness in the market.

Therefore, adopting a more innovative approach which the ISO 9001:2015 standard provides; will help your organization navigate through any period of disruption. It will also help your organization gain competitive advantage through greater responsiveness to customer demands, faster turnaround times and reduced downtime.”

This ISO 9001: 2015 Quality Management System Standard, he said, “provides you with opportunities and frameworks to satisfy your customers and retain their loyalty for long-term UHYHQXH DQG SURÀWDELOLW\

Top Priorities, as Osanipin Resumes at Automotive Council

T

he National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) is strategic to Nigeria’s ambitions as a leader in local automotive development.

On Friday, October 13, President Bola Tinubu approved the immediate appointment of Joseph Oluwemimo Osanipin as the new Director-General of the NADDC. On Tuesday, October 17, Osanipin resumed at the NADDC office in Abuja to warm reception from staff. Meeting with the staff upon his arrival, Osanipin gave some insights into his vision for the council and likely approach to management. He appreciated the staff for the warm welcome, stating that an atmosphere of cordiality and cooperation was essential to team cohesion and performance.

On his appointment, he said, “I am grateful to Mr President for this appointment. I am passionately committed to ensuring that the Renewed Hope agenda for a robust domestic automotive industry is realized. But this lofty ambition cannot be realized without your commitment, industry and sustained application. Together, we hold the key to establishing a solid pathway to the future of automotive mobility in Nigeria. We must not treat this onerous responsibility lightly”.

Osanipin added that he was open to learning from the staff, whatever their level, noting that his

Osanipin ultimate goal was to harvest ideas for growth. “I’m always open to learning. I respect all opinions. I believe the secret to great prosperity rests within the ideas of the team. Feel free to share your ideas.

As a firm believer in teamwork, your ideas will be respected and included in the decision-making process. You are a critical stakeholder. This council

belongs to us all, we must ensure it succeeds”.

He urged staff to appreciate the urgency of advancing affordable and convenient automotive mobility options, given the increased cost of transportation owing to the removal of petrol subsidy. “Nigerians are anxiously waiting for us to lead the charge for sustainable mobility in Nigeria. We cannot DͿRUG WR IDLO WKHPµ The NADDC was formed by Act no. 83 of 30th May 2014 from the merger of the National Automotive Council and the Centre for Automotive Design and Development as a Parastatal of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment. Its mission, which is to “design and implement policies, programmes and strategies for DQ HͿHFWLYH FRPSHWLWLYH DQG GLYHUVLÀHG SULYDWH sector-led industrialization process” is pursued through an actualization plan anchored on creating “an enabling environment for the manufacture of Nigerian made vehicles of international standards at competitive prices using local human and material resources”.

With the removal of subsidy on petrol, which has now triggered a cost of transportation crisis, the government has been searching for alternatives to petrol-powered vehicles. Of the options, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs) have been the most discussed options, with CNG looking like an imminent possibility.

Automatic transmissions have been the dominating automotive format for decades now. While manual transmissions are cool, the simple fact of the matter is that shifting an automatic into drive and forgetting about it for the duration of your trip is a much easier, lower-stress way to travel which is why stick shifts are a dying breed. That being said, just because an automatic transmission takes a lot less guesswork to use than a manual transmission, that doesn’t mean that you can disregard its intricacies entirely.

Automatic transmissions are built in a very particular way to easily facilitate travel without the need for transmission minutiae. If you try to use them in the same way you’d use a manual transmission, or otherwise try to circumvent their operation with little “tricks,” you’ll end up doing a lot more harm than good. Certain bad habits can wear out the transmission’s components, making it harder to use, and in the worst-case scenario, breaking it entirely and necessitating a mechanic visit.

Generally, the only times you ever shift the gears on an automatic transmission are when you’re driving, reversing, or parking.

Since these three states of being are more or less antithetical to each other, you should, in theory, never have any reason to switch gears unless you’re already at a complete stop. However, if you’re in a rush or just feel gutsy, you may try to shift gears while you’re still in motion, such as dashing into a parking spot and slamming into park or cruising downhill in neutral. But you could be hurting your car without realizing it.

Besides just being generally unsafe, doing this is absolute murder on your transmission.

Automatic transmissions aren’t designed to shift gears like this, so forcing a change while you’re in motion is kind of like trying to pound a square peg into a circular hole. It might go through, but the damage it causes is obvious.

(Source: Slash Gear)

Chery Tiggo 8 Pro max

Carloha Appointed Chery Automobile Exclusive Dealer in Nigeria

C

arloha Nigeria, a prominent automobile company in Nigeria that specialises in sales and services of luxury vehicles, has been appointed as the authorised dealer of Chery automobile in the Nigerian market.

A statement by Carloha Nigeria said, “This VWUDWHJLF SDUWQHUVKLS PDUNV D VLJQLÀFDQW ODQGPDUN in the expansion and growth of both organisations in the Nigerian automotive industry.

“Chery Automobile, a global player in automotive manufacturing with high-quality vehicles, is excited in the partnership with Carloha Nigeria.

“The essence of this partnership is to provide Nigerian automobile lovers with the access to cutting-edge vehicles that combine state-of-the-art WHFKQRORJ\ VXSHULRU TXDOLW\ DͿRUGDELOLW\ DQG unrivaled reliability.”

According to the Director of Sales and Marketing, Mr. Joseph Omokhapue, “This strategic alignment is in consonance with Carloha’s FRPPLWPHQW WR RͿHULQJ RXU QXPHURXV FXVWRPHUV the best of the best quality vehicles that exceed their needs and expectations.

“Indeed, Chery’s global scorecard in providing high-quality and innovative automobile line-up is in sync with Carloha’s vision of quality vehicles to DRIVE THE WORLD!”

22

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 21, 2023

FEATURE Here Comes the New Asiwaju of Ijan Ekiti Raheem Akingbolu pays tribute to Lagos media entrepreneur, John Ajayi, who was recently honoured with the chieftaincy title of the Asiwaju of Ijan Ekiti by Oba Adebanji Aladesuyi

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istory was made recently at the ancient town of Ijan Ekiti in Gbonyin Local Government of Ekiti State, where a media entrepreneur and an illustrious son of the soil, John Olutope Ajayi, was installed as Asiwaju of the town. Ajayi’s installation with those of a few prominent Nigerians, was the peak of the one-year anniversary of Oba Aladesuyi, who ascended the throne exactly a year ago.

Though, it was not the first time an Ijan man or woman would be honoured at home and it was also not the first time an Ijan King would give honorary titles to prominent individuals in the society but it was the first time an Ijan man would be named Asiwaju.

Another significant thing about the title and its beneficiary was perhaps the unanimous acceptability among the Ijan indigenes who all hailed their king for giving the title to a man many described as ‘a torchbearer’. As the Kabiyesi pronounced Ajayi as Asiwaju, the people erupted in excitement and showered encomium on the new chief for his outstanding and selfless character.

According to the Kabiyesi, Ajayi’s nomination and confirmation enjoyed general acceptability among Onijan-in-Council, Ijan Community Development and among the various age grades.

“Today will go down in the history of our dear town as a day of honour that was set aside to mark my first-year anniversary coronation and honour for one of our own; a credible, forward-looking, progressive-minded and illustrious son of the soil, John Olutope Ajayi, who has, over the years worked for a better Ijan through his contribution to physical and human developments. Personally, I was impressed listening to friends, family members and other indigenes of Ijan, who all spoke glowingly about how John has impacted them. This recognition is not only to boost his morale to continue being the good ambassador of Ijan that he is but to encourage others to take a cue from him,” Onijan said.

For Ajayi, a veteran Journalist and Publisher of Marketing Edge Magazine, a wholly communication marketing journal, the honour was a reward for his years of eventful contribution to the growth of both the human and physical developments of the town.

Thus, Ajayi’s installation as Asiwaju brought to the fore the age-long harmony among various religious and community groups in Ijan, which has repeatedly been cited as one of the basis for its development.

The one-year anniversary of Onijan also established that the monarch is strategically mobilising the community’s social capital

All hail Chief Ajayi

for popular participation in a way that the envisaged new Ijan would be a reality.

The event markedly signified a build-up to special recognition of outstanding individual contribution towards Ijan Ekiti. It also recognised that Ajayi’s effort was a symbolic pivot to the growth of Ijan and her common heritage. And the medal was finally awarded to him to goad others to action.

Another take-home lesson from the memorable event was that that the youth of the community have a lot to learn from the accomplishments of the celebrant and that the idea of a new Ijan sprang from Kabiyesi’s efforts at uniting the community in a renewed effort that will take the community into a new height.

Reacting to the honour done him by his community, Ajayi appreciated Kabiyesi, the chiefs and other prominent indigenes for considering him fit for the recognition.

“Our Kabiyesi, Alase, Ikeji Orisa, I’m indebted to you and the Ijan stool. May God continue to guide you with the Solomonic wisdom to lead our community to the promised land. You are indeed a God-chosen king. To our traditional chiefs and other sons and daughters of Ijan, I appreciate you all for this honour and I promise to always make you proud. To me, Ijan is my own Jerusalem and I will continue to contribute my quota to her development.”

Speaking further, Ajayi urged Ijan sons and daughters to race to build the town and her common heritage into a symbol of human capital.

He admitted that though Ijan sons and daughters are spread across all professions, there is need to galvanise every one

into action through the collective value of all social networks.

“In line with the current global trend, the new Ijan must be defined within the present reality of universal concept of developmentknowledge economy, digital education, ICT skills, history, heritage and storytelling skills, among others. Finally, Ijan sons and daughters should heed the new call to serve humanity through the window of Ijan town,” Ajayi stated.

Although government efforts cannot be underestimated, Ajayi’s contribution and those of others have shown that Ijan deserves a more ambitious push to drive and expand every facet of its present attainment, and there is therefore every reason to be committed to a self-led growth and close the developmental gap within Ijan.

The passion within the minds of sons and daughters of Ijan to develop the community has really transformed into concrete actions as footprints of community-led development abound across the town.

Born on June 12, 1963, in Ijan-Ekiti, in Gbonyin Local Government of Ekiti State in Southwest Nigeria, Ajayi, known for his visionary and highly focused journalism, marketing and public relations acumen, graduated from the University of Lagos with a Bachelor’s degree in English Language. In his quest for more knowledge and to prepare for future endeavours, he obtained a postgraduate diploma in Journalism at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba and later a Master’s degree in Political Science, from the same University of Lagos.

A consummate professional, Ajayi worked with prominent media firms in Nigeria, par-

ticularly in the print media, distinguishing himself as a well-sought-after journalist, covering the wide spectrum of business beats, features and later the political desk where he was once posted to the Governor’s office as a State House Correspondent by THISDAY Newspapers. He cut his journalism teeth at The News magazine, where he was first employed as a Proof Reader on the SubDesk. He later moved to Thisday newspaper upon the completion of his Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism as a Staff Writer where he also introduced the Media page column of the Newspaper.

Meritoriously celebrated as an investigative journalist, and a very hard-working news hunter, Ajayi is known for delivering breaking news and exclusives that have positively lifted the profession. In his drive to move beyond the established mark and do something extraordinary, Ajayi took a very bold, surprising and decisive decision in 2003 that stunned industry watchers and even his family by floating his own media outfit, Marketing Edge Publications Ltd. His bold decision to call it quit with a paid employment even at a much younger age was seen as a risk too grievous and ambitious.

The focused publication’s objective as envisioned and moulded by Ajayi is aimed at promoting the brands, while expanding the frontiers of marketing and advertising knowledge for all the players and practitioners in the Integrated Marketing Communications sector (IMC) .This initiative offers the IMC group the first and novel opportunity to embrace and identify with a news platform that solely deals with the industry happenings, developments and growth .This media group has today metamorphosed into a multi-channel media news Channel that cuts across print, online, broadcast and OOH; and with a subsidiary, Media Edge, that is into 360-degree marketing communications and brand management consultancy services.

In further pursuit of the vision, Ajayi, this year, signposted the 20th anniversary of the company with the flag-off of an annual two-in-one event: the National Marketing Stakeholders Summit and the Brand and Advertising Excellence Awards, an event which, on the one hand, galvanizes the industry to brainstorm on a contemporary and topical issue in an effort to extend the frontiers of knowledge in the business of brand management and the management of the brand business as well as provide the environment for stakeholders engagement to chart the way forward for the industry.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

Olori Afolabi Organises Rural Women Summit

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uralwomeninApomu,headquartersofIsokanLocalGovernment Area of Osun State, gathered at the Palace of Alapomu on October 15 to mark this year’s International Day of Rural Women.

The event was organised by Olori Janet Afolabi Foundation.Addressingthewomen,OloriAfolabi, Queen of Apomu Kingdom and Founder of the Foundation said, “Today belongs to you. It is dedicated to appreciate you for your hard work andresilienceasthebackboneoffoodproduction, where you constitute women labour- paid and unpaid. My mission is to provide access to credit to enable them start or grow their business.”

She said the essence of the day was to also empower the women “because they work very hard yet they live a hard life.”

In a symbolic gesture of support, new set of women emerged from the “No Interest Loan”

programme which the Foundation started in October 2020.

Olori Afolabi urged the new beneficiaries to use the loan for the purpose for which it was given.

She also used the opportunity to tell the women to discourage child marriage and encourage their girls to complete their education.

In his keynote speech, Oba Kayode Adenekan Afolabi, the Alapomu of Apomu said, “Today serves as a reminder that millions of women in rural communities need assistance from basic necessities to financial aid. It is good to celebrate them because they toil every day to contribute to agricultural production and food security.”

Osun State First Lady, Erelu Ngozi Adeleke, who was the special guest, commended Olori Janet Afolabi for the kind gesture. She said empowering rural womeniscentraltoimproving rural livelihoods. She enjoined the women to pay back the loans on time so that others can benefit.

Osun State First Lady, Erelu Ngozi Adeleke and the Queen of Apomu Kingdom, Olori Janet Afolabi (middle) surrounded by other women, at the Rural Women Summit organised by Olori Janet Afolabi Foundation to mark International Day of Rural Women in Alapomu Palace Hall, Apomu, headquarters of Isokan Local Government Area of Osun State

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 21, 2023

23

MARKET PLACE with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

L-R: Chairman, Zidora Group, Dr. Arinze Madueke presenting award of ‘Young African Media Entrepreneur of the Year’ to Managing Director of UpdateAfrika Communications, Joseph Effiong at the 2023 Africa Illustrious Award held in Oriental Hotels, Lagos... recently

L-R: Director Operations, ETK Group, Brent Barnette; Country Director, MasterCard Foundation Nigeria, Rosy Fynn; MD Greenwich Asset Management, Ifeanyi Njoku and MD ETK Group, Bolaji Sofoluwe at the ETK ConnectXperience Event at Wheat Baker Hotel, Lagos...recently

Vivajets Unveils Products, Targets Improved Connectivity, Growth 9LYDMHWV D EXVLQHVV DYLDWLRQ DQG ÁDJVKLS brand of Falcon Aerospace Limited has pledged FRPPLWPHQW WR EXVLQHVV H΀FLHQF\ DW WKH ODXQFK of its new products in Lagos recently.

Revealing its latest, which included fractional aircraft ownership, aircraft management, sales DQG DFTXLVLWLRQ WKH ÀUP VDLG LW LV DLPLQJ WR empower African growth and smoothen enterprise operations.

It added that the fractional aircraft ownership ZRXOG DͿRUG FXVWRPHUV RSSRUWXQLWLHV WR EHFRPH part owners of an aircraft.

While introducing the product to the media,

&KLHI ([HFXWLYH 2΀FHU RI 9LYDMHWV &KXNZXHULND Achum stated that the initiative was timely and necessary to meet up with demands of modern business leaders and economy.

He said, “As Africa evolves with increased population, innovation and enterprise, new business leaders have emerged while business aviation has become crucial in enhancing their H΀FLHQF\ %XVLQHVV DYLDWLRQ WKHUHIRUH KDV WKH potential to stimulate African economic development alongside increased connectivity across the continent. Vivajets has positioned itself to meet this rising demand on the continent with

its full range of services.”

Achum said beyond being a business aviation FRPSDQ\ WKH ÀUP LV DOVR GULYHQ E\ WKH JRDO to facilitate regional connectivity.

On the schedule, he informed that the company operates a number of international routes on FKDUWHUHG ÁLJKWV IURP LWV FXUUHQW EDVH LQ /DJRV He said, “Our Destinations include London, Accra and Abidjan, with a range of operational VWUDWHJLHV GHVLJQHG WR LPSURYH WUDYHO H΀FLHQF\ reduce travel time, maximize aircraft, and make EXVLQHVV DYLDWLRQ PRUH DFFHVVLEOH DQG DͿRUGDEOH µ The company’s Head of Products and Innova-

WLRQ %DVLO $JERU UHD΀UPHG WKH ÀUP·V GULYH IRU value, stressing that technology and innovation remained at the center of its operations.

He said: “Technology plays a crucial role LQ WKH ZD\ ZH RSHUDWH DQG RͿHU RXU VHUYLFHV The culture of innovation and technology use permeates our business as well as corporate culture.

“Through technology, we are able to maintain a lean team and work collaboratively from anywhere in the world. We have also developed digital platforms to improve customers’ access to our services.”

Pernod Ricard Marks Terra’s Audacious ‘Unwrap Joy, Unleash UpdateAfrika Boss Bags Young Entrepreneur Award, Inspires Youths World Cleanup Day Taste’ Campaign Thrills Consumers Global leader in wine and spirits, Pernod Ricard has teamed up with ‘Let’s Do It Nigeria’ to clean up Marwa community in Lekki, Lagos.

The action was in commemoration of 2023 World Cleanup Day, which the company said agrees with its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

Speaking, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Western Africa, Sola Oke stated that as much as the firm runs its business, it recognises and pays attention to preservation of natural resources.

He explained the objective of the day as creating a shift towards better management of resources and inspire smarter

choices in design, production, and consumption, adding that the organisation is leaving no stone unturned to drive these objectives.

He said, “We share a world RI ÀQLWH UHVRXUFHV XQGHU KXJH pressure. We minimise waste at every step by imagining, producing, and distributing our products and experiences in ways that optimise and help preserve natural resources. “ He disclosed further that as part of keeping the environment safe, the company is unboxing its ‘Jameson Irish Whiskey and Imperial Blue Whisky’ to do away with single bottle cartons.

In a world where convenience often overshadows creativity, Terra Seasoning Cube’s ‘Unwrap Joy, Unleash Taste’ Campaign message has effectively struck a chord with consumers, guiding them into a whole new world where cooking is no longer seen as a mundane task but rather a delightful expression of joy, creativity and passion.

The campaign which is revolutionary in concept, and audacious in delivery, essentially uses the setting of an orchestra to deliver the wholesome joy that awaits consumers when they unwrap Terra Cube and the immediate joy that is sparked by that action.

Various sentiments flood the walls of social media platforms

as users write positive comments on their experience with Terra Cube and express their excitement with regard to the recently launched Campaign.

According to Kanto Phillippa, an Instagram User, “It’s about time we went back to good and quality advert. Yes, your call to action worked. I have been using Terra Cube since I came across the advert, the message was clear and the seasoning is the best I have ever used”.

Another Instagram user Angelicagnes1, said “This is a Masterpiece!!! Very brilliant advert.

With Terra Cube, you don’t need to stress to make a scrumptious meal!!! .

Managing Director of UpdateAfrika Communications, -RVHSK (΀RQJ KDV FKDUJHG African youths on resilience and determination, just as he was declared ‘Young African Media Entrepreneur of the Year’ at the 2023 Africa Illustrious Award that held recently in Lagos.

Organised by My Media Africa, Africa Illustrious award is esteemed as Africa’s most reputable award for African achievers and seeks to recognise individuals and organisations who have exhibited exceptionally strong and innovative leadership, as well as rare philanthropies.

The award initiative honoured H[HPSODU\ LFRQV LQ GLͿHUHQW

spaces that span tech, humanity entrepreneurs, businesses and entertainment, amongst others. (΀RQJ·V FRQIHUPHQW followed his exploits to the youthful population and the less privileged society.

As a communication specialist, he has displayed rare excellence and leadership traits that have distinguished him among peers and driven his business to an enviable heights.

The organisers referred to (΀RQJ·V SKLODQWKURSLHV DV legendary, ranging from his empowerment for widows, indigent students and other gestures that have restored hope and found directions for many.

FG Urged to Align Tax, Monetary PalmPay Bridging Nigeria’s Financial Literacy Gap Policies to Drive Growth Tax professionals have emphasised a need to align the nation’s tax policy with the economic plan, mostly the monetary and exchange rate policies for the ongoing national tax reform to be more HͿHFWLYH Moreso, they advised tax administrators at both national and state levels on sustainable tax reform while SURͿHULQJ VWHSV DQG VWUDWHJLHV to realise it.

Speaking during an interview session, a chartered tax practitioner, Dr Titilayo Fowokan opined that while HͿRUWV DUH EHLQJ SXW LQWR WD[

3DOP3D\ D OHDGLQJ ÀQWHFK FRPSDQ\ LV KHOSLQJ WR EULGJH WKH ÀQDQFLDO OLWHUDF\ gap in Nigeria. At a recent Moonshot policy reform, there should by TechCabal Conference on Thursday, be deliberate moves to make 2FWREHU 3DOP3D\·V *OREDO &02 6RÀD =DE KLJKOLJKWHG WKH FRPSDQ\·V VLJQLÀFDQW reform sustainable.

According to her, tax policy VWULGHV LQ GULYLQJ D ÀQDQFLDOO\ OLWHUDWH 1LJHULD Through its extensive network of Mobile reform which entails having a national strategy to create a Money Agents spread across all states of PRUH H΀FLHQW HͿHFWLYH DQG the country, the Mobile Money Operator equitable tax system, will be is leading the charge in sensitising the more successful and impactful SRSXODWLRQ LQ XQGHUEDQNHG DUHDV WR ÀQDQFLDO services. It uses its rich pool of mobile money if sustainable.

She said, “The ongoing agents as resource personnel to educate tax reform of present ad- marginalized communities and empower ministration is a step in the WKHP WKURXJK DFFHVV WR ÀQDQFLDO VHUYLFHV At a panel discussion on ‘Building the right direction that will drive responsible and accountable Future of Financial Services’ on October 12, public governance, as well in Eko Hotel, Lagos, Zab said, “Financial as enhance macroeconomic literacy is very important in the context of stability, growth and develop- Nigeria. While there is a population that is extremely tech savvy, a large proportion ment in overall.

RI DGXOWV UHPDLQ ÀQDQFLDOO\ H[FOXGHG RU underserved, and so we need to bridge that gap.”

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Beyond the 30 million registered users on PalmPay’s smartphone apps, an additional 13 million Nigerians engage in transactions monthly via the company’s extensive network of agents and merchants.

In total 1 in 5 Nigerians are now using the PalmPay platform through its smartphone apps, merchants and agents for money transfers, bill payments and savings.

More than just facilitating transactions, PalmPay’s agents take the time to educate individuals with smartphones on how to make use of their devices and navigate

3DOP3D\·V DSS WR DFFHVV ÀQDQFLDO VHUYLFHV Its customer care team also plays a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide E\ RͿHULQJ SHUVRQDOLVHG DVVLVWDQFH LQ ERWK English and local languages. PalmPay’s team is equipped to speak to enquirers in pidgin as well as Nigeria’s various indigenous languages, ensuring that even WKRVH QHZ WR GLJLWDO ÀQDQFLDO VHUYLFHV KDYH the knowledge to make use of cashless SD\PHQWV FRQÀGHQWO\ 7KURXJK WKHVH HͿRUWV 3DOP3D\ LV GHPRFUDWLVLQJ ÀQDQFLDO DFFHVV DQG ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital revolution.

Commenting at the end of the event, Zab revealed that PalmPay is actively exploring partnerships to further promote ÀQDQFLDO OLWHUDF\ $V D OHDGLQJ ÀQWHFK platform, PalmPay boasts a wide footprint, FRPSULVLQJ R΀FHV DFURVV WKH FRXQWU\ and 1.1 million businesses.

24

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 21, 2023

POLITY

‘Douye Diri, He Weigh? He Weigh!’

Emmanuel Okara

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he title for this piece is a typical campaign trail parlance during election seasons in Bayelsa State written in pidgin English. It’s simply asking if Gov. Douye Diri is worth a second term in office… And the obvious answer is Yes! Rendered in the King’s English, the caption is asking if Duoye Diri is worth his salt….

This question is usually asked by different individuals at regular intervals at political rallies or on the campaign trail, and the crowd, responding will chorus in the affirmative, ``E Weigh!!!’’

But has Diri done enough to merit a second term in office, you may ask. His deeds these past three years plus at the helm in Bayelsa State have portrayed him as a tried, tested and trusted administrator which the majority of Bayelsans would attest to.

Even though Gov. Douye Diri is the odds-on favourite to win the upcoming Nov. 11, 2023, Gubernatorial Elections in Bayelsa State; he is not in any way taking things for granted.

But as incredible as it may sound, it will interest you to know that, Diri had passively and unwittingly started campaigning for a second term in office through his peopleoriented policies which has brightened his chances at the polls, come Nov. 11.

Already campaigning? You may ask. Yes, it is only a politically naive individual who would want to leave campaigning to the very last minute or rather the period of the campaign allowed by the electoral umpire.

Knowing full well that a sterling performance in office would put him in good stead for a second term in office, he set about his objective intelligently by ticking all the right boxes from the get-go in a manner that resonated with the good people of Bayelsa State.

Against the backdrop, of his fortuitous emergence as a governor, Diri, who was initially elected as a senator to represent Bayelsa Central Senatorial District in the 9th National Assembly, has since turned out to be the right man at the right place and at the right time. Being a consummate politician with a strong sense of NATIVE INTELLIGENCE, the Bayelsa helmsman has set about revamping the socio-economic fabric of the coastal state through wide-ranging populist programmes to the benefit of the citizens of Bayelsa State.

We must at this juncture stress that everything Diri has done in the office, since the advent of his administration in February 2020 did not come by happenstance rather, it came about through the well-thought-out policies of a visionary administrator.

Infrastructure-wise, Diri has not only built quality roads and bridges across the length and breadth of the riverine state, but he has also opened hitherto inaccessible areas of Bayelsa much to the delight of the communities that benefitted from the developmental projects.

During his three years plus as governor, the Diri admin-

Diri istration has been able to impact the different strata of Bayelsa where the citizenry has been meaningfully engaged in one entrepreneurial pursuit or the other.

Gov. Diri has not only campaigned in poetry, as the saying goes he has also governed in prose, and by so doing becoming conversant with the nitty-gritty of leading a complex state like Bayelsa.

Through his sociable mannerisms and charisma, Diri has attracted previously implacable foes to his fold to join him in his onerous task of turning things around for the better in Bayelsa State. In terms of insecurity and the like, the Diri administration has reduced crime to the barest minimum in collaboration with the security agencies and Bayelsa is now a safe haven for the organised private sector to thrive.

So, on Sept. 30, when the campaigns officially began for the Nov. 11 Gubernatorial Elections, Diri kicked off his campaign in the Brass Council Area of the state; the home turf of his main opponent Chief Timipre Sylva of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

This is a move that can best be described as a masterstroke (emphasis mine) because of the numerous developmental projects he had been able to execute there…Most significantly the Nembe Unity Bridge which means a lot to the people.

Diri, while addressing the Okpoama Council of Chiefs, said that the construction of the Nembe-Brass road by his administration was beyond any political consideration, but about the economic benefits to the state and country.

He added that the decision to embark on the project, which is a federal road in the Bayelsa East Senatorial District, was borne out of his strong desire to create access to the Atlantic Ocean to harness its abundant natural resources. ``When I became Governor, I wrote to the Federal Government and the Nigerian Agip Oil Company on the need to collaborate with the state government to construct the three critical senatorial roads. ``These are not projects that only the Bayelsa government can handle because the cost runs into hundreds of billions of naira. ``But when I saw that nothing was coming forth, and knowing that my tenure was time-bound, I became very ambitious and had to take the bull by the horns to undertake these projects, which also included the Yenagoa-Oporoma-Ukubie and the Sagbama-Ekeremor-Agge roads.``The Nembe-Brass Road is not a political project. It is the major project I have brought to the people of Okpoama and the Bayelsa East Senatorial District. ``I am here to ask you for a second term. I do not want to leave projects abandoned. This is about the destiny and the development of our people. ``You currently have a governor who is already doing what you want. As I speak, work is ongoing on the Nembe-Brass road,” Diri said.

In his response, Chief Paul Omubo Suobagha, Chairman of the Okpoama Council of Chiefs, who represented King Ebitimi Banigo, underscored the importance of the Nembe-Brass road, saying that they look forward to driving to their hometown in the not-too-distant future.

We can go on and on about how Diri has made his mark on the socio-political landscape of the coastal state, even though his opponents might think otherwise.

Diri’s opponents can be likened to spectators watching a game of draught seeing all the game-winning moves from the outside looking in, but when given the opportunity to be on the driving seat they suddenly run out of the fanciful ideas they had previously bandied. To paraphrase the famous saying of Mario Cuomo (a former Governor of New York State now deceased) the Bayelsa helmsman is the quintessence of one who has campaigned in poetry and governed in prose with aplomb and eminently poised for a second term in office.

This piece is not saying that Diri has turned Bayelsa into an El Dorado of sorts, but he is obviously taking Bayelsa state to a better place like never before and the people are equally appreciative of his meritorious services.

With D-Day fast approaching and barring all unforeseen circumstances, the onus is on all Bayelsans of goodwill to come out en masse to exercise their franchise come Nov. 11, to foster a continuation of the ``Prosperity Administration” in Bayelsa State.

Douye Diri, He weigh? He weigh o!!!! Egberi fador!’

Sterling Bank MD, Others Seek Ways to Give Tourism a Push Justina Uzo High profile personalities in the country lent their voices in support of the tourism industry, as Nigeria joined the rest of the world to mark the 2023 World Tourism Day (WTD), recently.

The United Nations agency, UNWTO has set aside every September 27 for tourism stakeholders to celebrate tourism, known as the highest employer of labour skilled and unskilled labour, young and old. Tourism is also a veritable vehicle to alleviate poverty.

Without doubt, this year’s edition of WTD, with the theme “Tourism and Green Investments,” was well received. Sterling Bank highlighted their green investments at a gathering it convened recently to mark its own 2023 World Tourism Day in Lagos.

The event, which was held at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), witnessed an impressive turn-out of stakeholders in the tourism/creative industry and across other sectors.

The speakers sought what they described as the way forward in the travel and leisure business. They identified the whole gamut of ills bedevilling the tourism industry in the country.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Bank Ltd., Abubakar Suleiman, was able to shed a visionary light on Nigeria tourism. Suleiman earlier identified infrastructure and positive narrative as key to Nigeria’s tourism industry growth.

He harped on the dire need for the government to provide tourist infrastructure in the country, saying that stakeholders need to promote a positive narrative about Nigeria and increase advocacy. “The way we portray our homeland is a powerful tool and the moment we begin highlighting its positive attributes, tourists will be more inclined to visit,” he said.

According to him, “These critical factors are necessary for propelling the growth of Nigeria tourism.

The tourism industry here has continued to stagnate and financing for the capital intensive tourism industry over the years has come in drops rather than the much

needed funds.”

At present, some institutions are doing all they could to give the nation’s tourism sector the push it deserves. Generally, operators of tourism-reliant businesses said Sterling Bank has been “consistent in listening to us.”

One tourism/creative industry operator, Dr. Chief Nike Okundaye appreciated Sterling Bank for their kind support.

The bank had a booth at Nike Art Gallery, Lagos where they served gallery-goers light refreshments during the World Tourism Day on September 27. It’s significant as Nigeria only had pockets of WTD celebrations across the country year in year out. The WTD hadn’t been on the front burner for years. Many remember with nostalgia former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s regime, from 1999 to 2007, regarded as the “Golden Era” of Nigeria tourism.

The tourism sector was given pride of place. This is because the tourism industry has the potential to be a mainstay of the nation’s economy in terms of revenue generation and culture cross- breeding.

In his assessment, Suleiman adopted a three-pronged approach to revive Nigeria tourism experience. First, he asked individuals interested in travelling for business and for pleasure, to always ensure they packed their necessary travel items. Second, he emphasised the significance of highlighting and visiting the nation’s inspirational regions so tourists can take “full advantage of Nigeria’s unique, vibrant culture and rich history.”

Lastly, he touched on the critical role of stakeholders in advocating for an enabling environment for growing the tourism industry. Sulieman advised tourism operators on partnership, saying that cooperation among trusted stakeholders to curate the entire journey for tourists cannot be overemphasised; from the moment they search for Nigeria on Google to their remarkable experiences at renowned destinations like Nike Arts Gallery and Olumo Rock.

Also at the 2023 World Tourism Day event in Lagos, the Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedu, echoed the sentiment of partnership and visions of progress, affirming the state government’s readiness to partner with the private sector to harness the full potential

Abubakar Suleiman, 5th from left, with other guests at the 2023 World Tourism Day celebration

of its tourism industry.

Egbedu highlighted Osun State’s status as “Home to some of Nigeria’s most captivating tourist sites.” The Speaker pledged to conduct rigorous oversight of the state’s major tourist destinations and collaborate with the private sector to achieve desired outcomes in both the tourism and creative sectors.

He encouraged private sector entities to engage with the legislature to establish relevant legal and institutional frameworks that would facilitate the execution of their ideas and initiatives, ultimately contributing to a better understanding of the societies and communities in which they operate.

In the same vein, Head, Tourism and Creative Desk, Sterling Bank, Abiola Adelana, called on Nigerian citizens to promote domestic tourism. The award-winning banker maintained that collaboration among industry stakeholders is key in order to position the tourism sector in the country.

Sharing her enthusiasm for revitalising the nation’s tourism sector, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture in Lagos State, Mrs. Toke Benson, shared her commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to bolster the tourism sector in Lagos.

Benson expressed hope that Lagos State would soon gain global recognition showcasing her rich cultural heritage, music, people, and cuisine, which she deemed incomparable.

25

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 21, 2023

POLITY Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation Empowers 800 Pupils Maxim Uzoatu

T

he Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation (CEF), a leading non-profit organization committed to educational empowerment, has made a significant impact on the lives of pupils from Mushin Local Government Area (LGA) in Lagos State through its Kit-a-Child Programme Phase 4.

At the beginning of the 2023/2024 school year, CEF orchestrated a memorable day for pupils from selected primary schools in Mushin LGA, as they received generous donations of school bags, exercise books, and other writing materials under the Kit-a-Child Programme.

The Kit-a-Child Programme (KAC) is an annual initiative

by CEF at the start of the academic year, designed to support low-income households in vulnerable communities. This year’s focus on Mushin LGA included New City Pry School, Palm Avenue Pry School, Oduduwa Pry School, Estate Pry School,

and Papa Ajao Pry School.

A total of 550 pupils, spanning from kindergarten to primary six, were beneficiaries of the programme. The donated items included exercise books with 60 leaves for older classes and 2A, 2B, and 2D books for juniors, along with pens, pencils, erasers, and sharpeners. Additionally, school bags were gifted to pupils from primary 4 to primary 6.

Expanding its reach, CEF identified and supported 255 more pupils from Apapa Local Government Area and other low-income families within Lagos metropolis, starting from September 15, 2023.

The initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on families and ensure that every child has the essential tools to pursue education.

CEF’s intervention aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 of Quality Education.

By investing in education, CEF is committed to providing long-term solutions to the challenges faced by low-income households. Education not only equips individuals with the necessary tools for self-sufficiency but also fosters community development.

The distribution was executed by CEF’s dedicated staff and volunteers,

Some of the empowered pupils.

witnessed by the Head Teachers of the respective schools, teachers, and community members. The recipients and educators expressed gratitude for CEF’s efforts and encouraged other organizations to collaborate with schools in uplifting indigent pupils.

Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to making a lasting impact on education and empowering future generations; thus, keeping to its maxim of transforming society, changing lives.

2,504 Nigerians Benefit from BBBF Scholarships No fewer than 2,504 Nigerians have benefitted from the scholarship of the Bayo and Bunmi Babalola Foundation (BBBF), the Co-Founder, BBBF, Engineer Pastor Sunday Adebayo Babalola has said.

He explained that the number comprises the beneficiaries from its inception till the current eighth edition of the scholarship ceremony.

Babalola spoke yesterday during the eighth edition of the scholarship award ceremony, at the Women Empowerment Centre, Isanlu Isin Road, Omu Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

He revealed that no fewer than 651 pupils and students from Kwara State benefited from the current edition of the scholarship awards, while a total of 1,120 pupils from junior secondary schools and secondary schools and 733 students from tertiary institutions benefitted from the past seven editions of the scheme.

Babalola said he and his wife, Bunmi, initiated, and have been sponsoring the scholarship awards as a way of being grateful to God for his manifold blessings on them and to give back to

the society part of what God has blessed them with.

He expressed fulfilment that many of the past beneficiaries of the scheme were making progress and having great positive impacts in society.

He charged the current and past beneficiaries, to continue being good ambassadors of their families, society and the foundation.

Babalola said, “As God continues to bless us, my wife and I will keep to sustain this scholarship and our other philanthropic endeavours.

“We remember with nostalgia how during our school days, we were provided sufficient educational materials and some comforts of life. We are saddened that current pupils and students do not have such provisions from the government.

“That is why we decided to contribute our own quota for the upliftment of educational standards and the welfare of the pupils and students. Not that we have all the money, but we are determined to continue to sacrifice, even our comforts for the educational advancement of the younger generation and for a better tomorrow. We want to leave our society better than we met it.

L-R: President of the Rotary Club of Lagos, Rotarian Maj. Gen Abiodun Role rtd; Rotarian Toyin Odulate; Rotarian Eki Eboigbe; Representative of Ifako Women Traders Union, Alhaja Sherifat Bashir; Hon. Ibraheem Bakare; and Rotarian Adetunji Lamidi during the presentation of cheque of 1million Naira to the Ifako Women Traders Union, Gbagada. As part of the Micro Credit interest free loan to support small businesses in the Community by Rotary Club of Lagos ….recently

“It is a non-controversial fact that education is the bedrock of societal growth and advancement. Education is a catalyst for societal advancement. Education reduces sickness, crimes, poverty, sickness, superstition, and societal retrogression. Without sound education, there will not be great professionals, business tycoons, local government, state, national, and world leaders. Somebody asked me, ‘why are you and your wife still investing in the scholarships through the BBBF?’ “I thought about it. What are we doing this for? But when you look at it, the governments, at all levels, have failed us. If the state government, sincerely, has been able to fulfil its obligations to its citizens, there will be no need for this. We would have channeled our resources and energies to something else, like establishing organisations that would provide employment to citizens. But we have to do this because there are a lot of indigent, good and brilliant students and pupils who have problems paying even for menial things such as WAEC fees, NECO fees, and their final exams. So, my wife and I thought that we should help such students.

L-R: Group Executive Director, International Business and Corporate Service, NAHCO Plc, Dr. Sola Obabori; Group Executive Director, Commercial and Business Development, Prince Saheed Lasisi; Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Adeoye Emiloju, Chairman, Board of Directors, Dr. Seinde O. Fadeni; and the Senior Manager, Security, Col Olumide Kolajo (rtd.) at the inauguration/ handing over of newly purchased operativehicles to staff of the Company at Nahco Office, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos…recently…

KOLA ALLI

L-R: Director External Affairs, British American Tobacco, West and Central Africa and Ag. Chairman, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Export Promotion Group (MANEG), Odiri Erewa-Meggison; and L-R: General Manager, CIBA Hospitality Limited,Mr. Minaise Ricardo; Director of Development for West Vice President, Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN), Uto Ukpa- Africa, Marriot Hotels International, Dami Adepoju; and Group Managing Director/CEO, CIBA Group, Mr. nah at the ICSAN 47th Annual Conference and Induction ceremony which held at the Muson Centre, Josiah Samuel, at the Obudu Mountain resort partnership meeting in Cross River State recently....

ETOP UKUTT Onikan, Lagos…. recently

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 21, 2023

26

NEWS

Unilorin VC Tasks FG on Brain Drain Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

He said that, “Education sector in Nigeria, particularly Vice Chancellor of University KLJKHU HGXFDWLRQ KDV VXͿHUHG of Ilorin (Unilorin), Professor Wa- avoidable setbacks in the recent hab Olasupo Egbewole, yesterday past leading to brain drain.

“Our institutions need more urged the federal government as a matter of urgency to rescue the hands to deliver on its mandates nation’s education sector from and funds for serious academic the current brain drain that has works, researches and collaborahit the system. tions for desired outputs.

Speaking in Ilorin during “I urge the government at the 37th and 38th convocation all levels that a state of emerceremonies for the awarding of gency be declared to rescue the degrees/diplomas to over 13,000 system.” students for 2020/2021 set, Prof.

Egbewole, however, said that Egbewole stated that the ugly “We want to assure Mr. President development has continued to that we will not rest on our oars DͿHFW WKH JURZWK RI XQLYHUVLW\ for advancement and cutting-edge education and other tertiary researches aimed at development institutions in the country. and community engagement.”

RECOGNISED FOR EXCELLENCE …

L-R: Head, Media and External Relations, United Bank for Africa, Ramon Olanrewaju Nasir, receiving the Buzznews Best Award from Funmi Olowosegun, Publisher of Buzznews Magazine, at UBA Headquarters, Marina, Lagos...recently

FG Not Undermining Agreement With Labour, Says Lalong Onyebuchi EzigboinAbuja Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, has denied the allegation by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) accusing him of trying to scuttle the implementation of its agreement with the government over a dispute arising from the removal of fuel subsidy.

A statement signed by the Director Information, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Olajide Oshundun,

described NLC’s allegation as unfounded.

“The ministry said attention of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment has been drawn to a press release issued by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on 18th October 2023, wherein it alleged that the Honourable Minister, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong is moving to undermine the critical Labour-Federal Government Agreement of October 2, 2023.

“We wish to unequivocally

refute the allegation and put it on record that it is unfounded.

“Let it be reiterated that since assuming office and upon the dispute between the various groups within the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) being brought to his attention, the Honourable Minister has given consistent, adequate and fair attention to the matter with a view to resolving it,” it said.

The ministry said that several meetings have been held to resolve the NURTW issue with

representatives of the disputing groups, and the efforts are still ongoing.

“Therefore, it is not correct to suggest that the minister is supporting any of the groups in the course of the negotiations.

“Members of the NURTW, the NLC, and the entire Labour movement should be assured that the minister, as Chief Conciliator, will continue to work with all parties to ensure that there is reconciliation, harmony and industrial peace.”

We Won’t Spare Anyone Involved Oborevwori Lauds DESOPADEC for in Criminality, Says Radda Creating New Entrepreneurial Leaders Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

in Abuja yesterday, hinted that the state was trying as much as The Governor of Katsina possible to gather information, State, Dikko Umaru Radda, alongside intelligence from the has vowed to deal with any Department of State Security individual found to be involved (DSS) in order to build a in one criminal activity or the network that could arrest other in the State. and prosecute any person Radda said that no single found wanting. individual was more important Radda stated: “We have than 10 million people or the come up with the intelligence lives of an innocent person unit within the Katsina Comwithin the state, adding that in munity Watch Corps. This DQ HͿRUW WR FXUWDLOHG LQVHFXULW\ intelligence unit, even the he had come up with the intel- Corps members don’t know ligence unit within the Katsina them. The reason for setting Community Watch Corps. it up is to check the excesses The governor, during an in- of the Watch Corps and also teractive session with journalists to gather information.

Sylvester Idowu inWarri Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has commended the efforts of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) in fostering a new generation of entrepreneurial leaders to combat rising unemployment.

Oborevwori, who gave the commendation during the fourth graduation ceremony of the DESOPADEC Skills Academy, emphasised the importance of skill training and entrepreneurship development as solutions to the escalating rates of youth unemployment and restiveness.

The governor, who was represented at the event held at the Petroleum Training Institute, Effurun, by the Special Adviser on DESOPADEC, Hon. Basil Ganagana, highlighted the crucial role of the DESOPADEC Skills Academy in equipping young people with the necessary technical skills, vocational training, values, and resources to become successful entrepreneurs and job creators.

He cautioned against the practice of providing hand-outs in the name of empowerment, instead of equipping youths with soft skills such as knowledge acquisition, mindset changes, personal development, and business leadership skills.

Pupils Thrilled as Huaxing Arts Troupe Promotes Nigeria-China Cultures The Lagos-based Huaxing Arts Troupe Nigeria stormed the premises of Federal Housing Primary School and Awoyaya Primary School, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Thursday, to entertain and educate the pupils on China and Nigeria’s robust cultural heritage.

The event featured different onsite school activities such as cultural dance, martial arts display, musical drama, and other cultural performances. It was a moment of fun and excitement for the

pupils, who trouped out in their numbers to experience their local and Chinese cultural flavour.

The highlight of the event was the momentary entry of the Lion Dance troupe, which spontaneously sparked excitement from the pupils, including invited parents. The artistry display of the performers also ignited thunderous applause from the pupils. Other Chinese cultural performances included the Waist Drum Performance, Kung Fu display and Lady Dancers. The pupils of both schools performed

Farmers Dance, Traditional Wrestling Dance and more.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Eric Ni, Chairman, of Huaxing Arts Troupe, restated China’s commitment to supporting young children to further spur improved educational development.

“Today, we have witnessed the power of cultural exchange, as our talented HuaXing Arts Troupe showcased the vibrant and mesmerising Chinese cultural dances, while the students of these esteemed schools brought forth

the rich and diverse tapestry of Nigerian culture,” Dr. Ni said. “It is through these exchange programmes that we learn to appreciate and celebrate our differences, fostering understanding and unity among our nations.

“I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the immense contribution that the Chinese community has made to Nigeria’s educational landscape through scholarships and various educational initiatives.

LUTH Becomes First Organisation in Africa to Get BSAC GAMSAS Accreditation

Mary Nnah

by supporting healthcare personnel, who are responsible Lagos University Teaching for the safe use of antibiotics.

Speaking on the recently Hospital (LUTH) management has announced that its goal of achieved milestone by LUTH meeting the level of quality re- GXULQJ D SUHVV EULHÀQJ RQ quired by the British Society for Tuesday in Lagos, the Chief Antimicrobial Chemotherapy Medical Director, LUTH, (BSAC) Global Antimicrobial Prof Wasiu Adeyemo, said, Stewardship Accreditation “We are proud to be the Scheme (GAMSAS) has been ÀUVW RUJDQLVDWLRQ LQ $IULFD to achieve BSAC GAMSAS achieved.

BSAC GAMSAS is a global accreditation.”

He said that the accreditaaccreditation scheme that sets a high level of quality that tion process was supported any antimicrobial stewardship by the BSAC GAMSAS team, (AMS) programmes must and LUTH management VXUSDVV WR EH VHHQ DV SURÀFLHQW acknowledged their assistance.

LQ WKH VDIH DQG HͿHFWLYH XVDJH of antibiotics.

AMS is a collection of activities that supports safe DQG HͿHFWLYH XVH RI DQWLELRWics without risks of harm or danger which helps keep antimicrobial resistance (AMR) at bay. %HLQJ WKH ÀUVW RUJDQLVDWLRQ LQ Africa to achieve BSAC GAMSAS accreditation, LUTH’s accreditation demonstrates her dedication to reducing the threat of AMR globally

Professionals With AI Skills Have Experience, Research Reveals Mary Nnah Project Management Institute (PMI), the world’s leading organisation for the project management profession, has revealed through its PMI research that only 18 per cent of the project SURIHVVLRQDOV ZLWK DUWLÀFLDO Intelligence (AI) skills have practical experience.

In a statement, PMI stated that the organisation is empowering millions of global project professionals worldwide to adopt, embrace, and leverage AI, machine learning (ML), and generative AI (GenAI).

PMI said that it is developing the tools, resources, and learning opportunities – including a free introductory online course entitled “Generative AI Overview for Project Managers” – project professionals need to leverage AI-powered technology while preserving the human touch in project management.

3

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

Noah Atubolu Super Eagles’ Goalkeeping Solution?

21.10.2023

NEWS

SOUTH-WEST DERBY PAGE. 27

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 21, 2023

28

GLOBAL SOCCER

Atubolu; solution at last?

Super Eagles’ Goalkeeping Solution?

Super Eagles’ Solution between the Post?

With Francis Uzoho and Maduka Okoye being inactive for Omonia Nicosia and Udinese respectively, while Hapoel Jerusalem’s Adebayo Adeleye is set for life on the bench after some horrible performances since the beginning of the new season, Super Eagles Manager, Jose Peseiro is turning attention to Freiburg of Germany safe hands, Noah Atubolu, just as the Portuguese admitted it would be tough convincing the Nigerian descent to switch international allegiance to fatherland having represented Germany at age-grade levels

T

here is no doubt that the weakest link in the Nigeria senior national team, the Super Eagles in recent time has been the goalkeeping department. Indeed, Nigeria’s failure to hoist its flag at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and the team’s second round exit at the last African Cup of Nations in Cameroon was heavily blamed on goalkeeping errors.

Infact, Francis Uzoho has been heavily criticized for his underwhelming performance in Super Eagles last two friendly matches against Saudi Arabia and Mazambique in which he committed some school boy errors, notably the 2-2 draw against the Saudis.

Therefore, for the three-time African champions to do well at next year’s AFCON slated for Cote d’Ivoirie and even book a place in the 2026 Mundial, with the qualifications beginning next month, the problem between the sticks must be addressed fast and the national team manager, Jose Peseiro is already looking in the direction of Nigerian descent’s German Bundesliga, Freibur’s safehands, Noah Atubolu for solution, something the Portuguese has admitted would be a tough task.

The Portuguese football tactician has a goalkeeping crisis on his hands ahead of the start of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations as his current crop of goalkeepers are either lacking match fitness or off form.

Omonia Nicosia’s Francis Uzoho and Udinese’s Maduka Okoye have been inactive for their respective clubs this season,while

Hapoel Jerusalem’s Adebayo Adeleye has been heavily criticised for his performances in the new season so much so that manager Ziv Arie is considering dropping him from the starting lineup.

In the search for a reliable goalkeeper,Atubolu fits the bill as he is young and plays for a club in Europe’s top five leagues, but it is known that the 21-year-old is leaning towards representing Germany’s senior national team as was the case with Jordan Torunarigha and KevinAkpoguma who later went on to play for the Super Eagles.

Atubolu has caps for Germany at U17, U19, U20 and U21 national teams and became provisionally cap-tied to his country of birth in May 2019 when he started againstAustria at the 2019 U17 Euro.

According to German-based Nigerian journalist OmaAkatugba, he had a conversation with Jose Peseiro and brought up NoahAtobulu, but the Super Eagles coach and his staff believe it could be challenging to convince him to switch to Nigeria due to his talent and prospects with the German national team.

Akatugba went on to say that Peseiro promised to work on convincingAtubolu to change his nationality, but didn’t appear entirely convinced that the Freiburg goalkeeper would switch his allegiance to the three-timeAfrican champions.

Atubolu was installed as first choice goalkeeper at Freiburg this season following the sale of Netherlands international, Mark Flekken to Premier League club Brentford.

The German-Nigerian glovesman has posted four clean sheets in 10 all-competition appearances for Freiburg in 2023-2024. A Freiburg player for approaching 13 years,

Atubolu made his first-team debut during the 2022/23 campaign. The 6’3” custodian faced St. Pauli in a victorious DFB Cup second-round tie (2-1), as well as Qarabag in the UEFA Europa League groups (1-1) prior to the winter break. He then recorded his first clean sheet as a pro in 2-0 win over Sandhausen in the last 16 of the cup, adding to his 12 shut-outs across 25 appearances for Freiburg’s second string in the third tier. Atubolu has turned out over 80 times for the Freiburg reserves, helping them gain promotion to Germany’s 3. Liga as Regionalliga Südwest champions at the end of 2020/21. Three years earlier, he was part of the team that won the U19s German Cup. The Freiburg native has represented Germany since U17s level, and is currently the U21s’ first-choice goalkeeper. Broad shouldered, a sizable wingspan and lightning reactions enable Atubolu to pull off some stunning blocks at close quarters. He’s also super confident on the ball, boasts laser-guided distribution and once scored a goal from inside his own half for the Freiburg U17s.

Although on course for a senior international career with Germany, Atubolu is eligible to represent Nigeria. According to reports, he’s already rejected overtures from Nigeria ‘s various youth teams and has even been approached by the senior camp. “It’s a massive step up from 3. Liga to the Bundesliga, but Noah’s been brilliant.

He’s got more talent than I had at his age, “ -ex-Freiburg No.1 Flekken had stated.

For Freiburg sporting director Klemens

Hartenbach, “Noah exudes presence and confidence, and is mastering all the elements of a very good goalkeeping game.”

In 2019, Atubolu was among the goalkeepers of Nigerian descent that met with erstwhile Super Eagles Head coach, Gemot Rohr during a visit to Germany, the other being Okoye who has since had 16 caps for the national team.

Atubolu, who confirmed meeting with Rohr while he was still playing for Freiburg 11 then in the fifth division, same as Okoye said, “I had the chance of playing for Nigeria after meeting with the coach in 2019 and its an option I can’t rule out in the future.”

Last month, the Nigeria-eligible star withdrew from Germany U21 team ahead of Ukraine, Kosovo games. Atubolu is the firstchoice goalkeeper for the German youth side, and he was named in the squad preparing to face Ukraine and Kosovo in international matches this month. But a spokesperson from SC Freiburg, as per the German press, confirmed that Atubolu will not be available for the games. According to the reports, Atubolu’s withdrawal from the matches results from an ankle injury he suffered.

Despite representing Germany at U17, U19, and U21 levels, Atubolu remains eligible to play for the Super Eagles. Atubolu’s promotion to the Bundesliga could raise interest from the Nigeria Football Federation. Often compared to Manuel Neuer, Atubolu’s abilities are not in doubt. In his first few weeks in the Bundesliga, the 1.89m-tall gloveman has been nominated for the Rookie of the Month award.

29

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 21, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER

Remo Stars and Sporting Lagos in crunch battle during the final of NAIJA Super 8 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos

Photo: Shengolpixs

Remo Stars, Sporting Lagos Lock Horns in South-west Derby Kunle Adewale

W

ith Shooting Stars having lost ground in recent years, the battle of the South-west of the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, have shifted to the confrontation between Remo Stars of Ikenne and the new darling team of Lagos fans-Sporting Lagos, and both sides would be trying each for size in one of this weekend’s league fixtures at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne.

Aside the three points at stake, Remo Stars are still bitter to have lost to Sporting Lagos in the final of 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

maiden edition of the Naija Super 8 4-2, via penalty shootouts and revenge will be in the minds of the Daniel Ogunmodede tutored side, while Sporting Lagos, who are yet to taste defeat in the three week-old NPFL would want to prove that their victory in the Super 8 was not a fluke.

Remo Stars captain, Nduka Junior has stated that his side is going for a victory over Sporting Lagos in the first Southwest derby of the NPFL season.

Remo Stars sit in the top five spot after three games and hope to improve on that when they host their ‘noisy neigbours’.

“We’re going to try to consolidate on our away point so it becomes more meaningful to us, maintaining our high

position on the log,” Nduka Junior told Sports247.

While the Ikenne team would be buoyed by their 2-1 away win against Balyesa United last weekend ahead of encounter, coach Paul Offor and his boys would want to prove that the two points lost to visiting Doma United in their goalless draw last Sunday at the Mobalaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, was just a one off thing.

This weekend’s encounter will be their first in the league and Remo Stars would be hoping to get their pound of flesh for the Naija Super 8 loss with a win, while the visitors will attempt to go back to the top of the table.

According to Sporting officials, “We’re super pumped about this

Sunday because we’ve looked forward to it for a long time. It’s the first time we’re travelling with fans for a game.

Our first ever road trip and what makes it even more special it’s for a fiercely anticipated derby against Remo Stars.

“After our draw against Doma at Onikan on Sunday, we need a good result against Remo Stars to stay in the top half of the league. Its still early days though but every point counts.

Remo Star s i s o n e o f t h e o n l y four southwestern clubs in the N P F L , s o t h i s i s e ff e c t i v e l y a r i v a l r y. A f i g h t f o r s o u t h w e s t ern bragging rights and also a fight for the pride of privately owned teams in the NPFL.”

Steer Clear of Referees Changing Rooms, NPFL Charges Clubs Clubs’ hierarchy in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has been charged to provide conducive atmosphere at all times during the matches of the 2023/24 season.

The charge came through a memo to the clubs and signed by the NPFL Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi who observed that there has been a number of disturbing incidences reported around the Changing Rooms of the Referees at some venues.

“It is becoming increasingly worrisome that unauthorised persons are encroaching to restricted areas during matches of the ongoing season” the memo began.

The club bosses were reminded that no club official is allowed access to match Officials before, during and after any fixtures.

“It has become necessary to remind our Chairmen, General Managers and other top officials of the clubs that no club officer is permitted to visit or talk to match officials in their changing rooms at halftime or at any time in the course of a league match.

Access to match officials is restricted and only appointed Match Commissioners and Referees are to be in the designated rooms at halftime”, the memo emphasised.

Owumi appealed to the clubs’ leaders to provide enabling condition for a professional match management to avoid the ugly reports that has been coming out of some venues but warned that the League administration will not hesitate to apply the full sanctions as provided in the framework and rules of the NPFL in proven cases of unacceptable access to match officials.

In a separate development, the NPFL wants clubs to avoid the penchant for requesting fixture rescheduling, noting that with the release of the full fixtures, all clubs have been placed on sufficient notice to plan their schedules.

“Please, be informed also that the full fixtures of the season have been made available to all clubs with provision for two midweek fixtures for MatchDay 6 and 12. It has thus provided sufficient notice for all clubs to put

in place the logistics to honour the fixtures as the League would not entertain any requests for game rescheduling,” the clubs were informed.

Week Four Fixtures TODAY

Doma Utd Lobi Stars Tornadoes

v Enyimba 16:00 v Abia Warriors 16:00 v Bayelsa Utd 16:00

SUNDAY

Akwa United Gombe Utd Heartland Kano Pillars Kwara Utd Plateau Utd Remo Stars

v Shooting 16:00 v Insurance 16:00 v Katsina Utd 16:00 v Rivers Utd 16:00 v Enugu Rangers 16:00 v Sunshine Stars 16:00 v Sporting Lagos 16:00

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 21, 2023

30

GLOBAL SOCCER

Arsenal Title Charge Gets Chelsea Test in London Derby Arsenal title quest passed a litmus test penultimate weekend as the Gunners ended Manchester City’s hoodoo with a 1-0 win at the Emirate Stadium. Next in line for the Mikel Arteta side is a London derby against Chelsea, who seem to have found their mojo with a statement win away to Premier League new comer, Burnley before the international break.

Aside the three points at stake, the bragging right as to which of the two sides is truly the Pride of London will also be in contention Head -to -Head 03/01/18 18/08/18 19/01/19 29/12/19 21/01/20 26/12/20 12/05/21 22/08/21 20/04/22 06/11/22 02/05/23

Arsenal 2-2 Chelsea Chelsea 3-2 Arsenal Arsenal 2-0 Chelsea Arsenal 1-2 Chelsea Chelsea 2-2 Arsenal Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea Chelsea 0-1 Arsenal Arsenal 0-2 Chelsea Chelsea 2-4 Arsenal Chelsea 0-1 Arsenal Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea

club record, scoring 65 goals and conceding just 10 in the process.

The Citizens also boast an impressive record against Brighton as they have never lost in 13 previous home league meetings, winning 11 and drawing two; City have won each of their last nine home encounters with the Seagulls by an aggregate score of 24-3, including a 3-1 victory last season.

Brighton have also experienced a dip in form over the last month, winning just one of their last five matches in all competitions, although Roberto De Zerbi will have taken positives from his side rescuing 2-2 draws in their last two games against Marseille and Liverpool in the Europa League and Premier League respectively.

Premier League Table

Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka battling for possession with Chelsea’s Tiago Silva during last season’s premier league encounter at Stamford Bridge

T

op spot in the Premier League table could be Arsenal’s for at least 48 hours this weekend, as the Gunners trek to Stamford Bridge to square off with London rivals, Chelsea this evening.

Only an inferior goals tally is keeping Mikel Arteta’s men behind Tottenham Hotspur, whose former head coach Mauricio Pochettino is belatedly finding his feet in the blue half of West London.

For the second time in the space of as many months, Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling was overlooked for a place in Gareth Southgate’s latest England squad - much to the bemusement of the Blues faithful as the Three Lions qualified for Euro 2024 without him.

However, Chelsea fans may have felt a small sense of gratitude towards the England manager, as Sterling’s latest omission invoked a fire within the attacker’s belly, and he inspired his side to an emphatic come-from-behind triumph against newlypromoted Burnley two weekends ago.

Despite breaking the deadlock through Wilson Odobert, the Clarets succumbed to an Ameen Al-Dakhil own goal, Cole Palmer’s penalty, Sterling’s effort across goal and a much-needed strike for Nicolas Jackson in a 4-1 romping, stretching the Blues’ winning run across all tournaments to three matches.

With successes over Brighton & Hove Albion and Fulham under their belts as well, Chelsea have prevailed in three consecutive fixtures for the first time since Graham Potter’s final few weeks in March 2023, but their 11th-placed standing in the Premier League rankings is not a sight for sore eyes.

Nevertheless, the expensively-assembled hosts could now prolong their recent revival by winning three Premier League games on the bounce for the first time since October 2022, but they have lost both of their last top-flight home contests to Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest by a 1-0 scoreline, which coincidentally proved enough for Arsenal to

lift their Manchester City curse.

Not since the days of Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud working in tandem had Arsenal got one over Pep Guardiola’s team in the Premier League, and a few Gooners may have resigned themselves to another Citizens crushing when Bukayo Saka’s record-breaking streak of Premier League appearances was broken.

A penny for Aaron Ramsdale’s thoughts as David Raya cut an incredibly nervous figure in the early exchanges, but without midfield maestros Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri, a tepid Man City crop soon ran out of ideas in attack and were condemned to a narrow defeat courtesy of Gabriel Martinelli’s deflected late winner.

Responding to a deserved Champions League beating at the hands of Lens in exceptional fashion, Arsenal went into the international break as one of only two teams in the Premier League still unbeaten after eight fixtures, level on points (20) and goal difference (+10) with Tottenham, but the Lilywhites top the rankings by virtue of scoring two more goals.

However, with Ange Postecoglou’s team not in action until Monday, Arsenal could finish the weekend atop the pile with all three points at Stamford Bridge, where they could potentially begin a Premier League campaign with four wins and four clean sheets away from home for the very first time.

The Gunners are the only team in the division to boast a perfect defensive record on their travels thus far, and Stamford Bridge has become a happy hunting ground for Arsenal - who have won each of their last three Premier League fixtures there and a 3-1 Emirates success in May made it six wins from their last seven against their adversaries in blue.

Meanwhile, Premier League champions Manchester City will attempt to return to winning ways when they welcome Brighton

& Hove Albion to the Etihad Stadium this afternoon.

While the Citizens are striving to avoid a third successive top-flight defeat for the first time since 2016, the Seagulls are hoping to end a four-game winless run in all competitions.

October’s international break arguably came at a good time for Man City to reset following an uncharacteristic run of three defeats in four matches across all competitions – a 3-1 Champions League group-stage win over RB Leipzig being the only success celebrated over the last four weeks.

After coming up short against Newcastle United in the EFL Cup and then Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League, City hoped that their win over Leipzig would act as a catalyst to turn their fortunes around heading into a top-flight showdown with Arsenal. However, a sluggish showing and a late deflected goal from Martinelli ultimately resulted in a slender 1-0 loss in North London, condemning the Citizens to back-to-back league defeats for just the second time under manager Pep Guardiola.

Just one shot on target was registered by Man City against the Gunners, remarkably the fewest shots a Guardiola team has ever produced in a league fixture for more than a decade, and the reigning top-flight champions now find themselves sitting third in the table, two points adrift of both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur after eight games.

City’s domestic blip in form coincided with the absence of suspended lynchpin Rodri, while Erling Haaland’s hot streak in front of goal briefly fizzled out before he laced his shooting boots on international duty with Norway.

Nevertheless, Guardiola is confident that his side “will come back stronger” as they continue their pursuit of a record-breaking fourth successive Premier League title.

After enduring their recent wobble across four consecutive away matches, Man City will certainly welcome this weekend’s return to the Etihad where they have won each of their last 20 games across all tournaments – a

TEAM

P

GD

PTS

Tottenham Arsenal Man City Liverpool A Villa Brighton West Ham Newcastle Palace Man Utd Chelsea Fulham Forest Wolves Brentford Everton Luton Burnley B’mouth Sheff Utd

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

10 10 11 9 7 5 3 11 0 -3 4 -5 -2 -5 -1 -3 -9 -13 -13 -16

20 20 18 17 16 16 14 13 12 12 11 11 9 8 7 7 4 4 3 1

PREMIER LEAGUE TODAY

Liverpool v Everton 12:30 Bournemouth v Wolves 15:00 Brentford v Burnley 15:00 Man City v Brighton 15:00 Newcastle v Crystal Palace 15:00 Nottm Forest v Luton 15:00 Chelsea v Arsenal 17:30 Sheff Utd v Man Utd 20:00 SUNDAY

Aston Villa

v West Ham

16:30

v Fulham

20:00

MONDAY

Tottenham

La Liga TODAY

Sociedad v Mallorca 13:00 Getafe v Real Betis 15:15 Sevilla v Madrid 17:30 Celta Vigo v Atlético 20:00 SUNDAY

Las Palmas v Vallecano 13:00 Girona v Almería 15:15 Villarreal v Alavés 17:30 Barcelona v Bilbao 20:00 MONDAY

Valencia v Cádiz 20:00

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 21, 2023

31

GLOBAL SOCCER

Commissioner for the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources of Lagos State Mr Tokunbo Wahab, flanked by GM of LASPARK, Mrs. Adetoun Popoola and Red Bull Athlete Courage Adams, officially opened up the park with the ceremonial ribbon cutting.

Chelsea Battles Arsenal, Betsy Obaseki Cup: Edo Queens, Remo Stars Milan vs Juventus Live on GOtv

Uzoho

Ladies off to Another Rivalry Duro Ikhazuagbe The rivalry between Bendel Insurance FC and Remo Stars of Ikenne will be rekindled at the women’s level when the third edition of the Betsy Obaseki Football Tournament kicks off on Monday in Benin City.

In the draw made yesterday at the Government House in Benin City, Edo Queens who just recently won the Sheroes Preseason tournament were paired with the newly formed Remo Stars Ladies in Group A. Abuja-based Naija Raitel Queens who recently signed on Super Falcons Captain, Onome Ebi, completed the three teams in the group.

Interestingly, the Remo Ladies are coached by former Edo Queens manager, Wemimo Matthew.

In Group B of the 13-team competition, is last year semi-finalists, Nasarawa Amazons, Bayelsa Queens, and Confluence Queens.

Group C have defending Champions, FC Robo Queens, NWFL Championship side Fortress Ladies, Heartland Queens, and Rivers Angels.

Group D, hosts NWFL Champions, Delta Queens, Ekiti Queens, and Osun Babes.

Speaking at the draw ceremony, Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki who is the force behind the tournament explained

why this edition has as Theme :”Stop Gender- based Violence”.

“Following the success recorded by our campaign against women trafficking, Edo State is no longer No. 1 in the index of states in the country where young girls are shipped out of the country for prostitution. We also believe that this our campaign against Gender-based Violence will similarly achieve the result of eradicating such vices from our society.”

The tournament is scheduled to begin on Monday, October 23rd, with the opening match set for 5 pm at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

Edo Rep Member Commends FIFA-licensed Agent, Uyi Member of House of Representatives for Oredo Federal Constituency, Esosa Iyawe has commended Drew Uyi for bagging his FIFA agent license.

Uyi’s licensing by the world football governing body, would enable him represent players, clubs, agents and coaches in football globally as an agent.

Iyawe said that Oredo, which he represents in the Green Chambers can benefit from Uyi’s achievement, adding that there are talents in Edo State that can work with Uyi to realise their ambition of playing professional football abroad.

He also stated that Uyi is a role model to Edo youths who

Uyi

might be looking to follow the same career path, adding that with good education, they can realise their ambition.

“I must commend Drew Uyi

for the feat of becoming a licenced FIFA agent. It further shows that Nigerians can excel in any field.

His achievement can rub off on the youths who want to play professionally abroad.

“I will also say that there are talents in Edo that can work with Uyi while his achievement is a big plus for Edo State. For me, it is a feat worth commending.

He can also be a role model to youths who want to career path. All they need to do is study hard and follow their dreams.

He also called on Nigerian clubs, players, coaches to benefit from Uyi’s expertise by working with the renowned FIFA agent.

World Boxing Announces Nigeria as First African Member Tensions betwen Africa and the International Boxing Association (IBA) look like they are escalating as rival body World Boxing announced Nigeria as the first member nation from the continent.

Finland, Iceland, Jamaica, Norway, and the Czech Republic join the African nation as the newest members of World Boxing.

This brings the total to 22 members as the new body looks set to host its inaugural Congress

in Frankfurt on November 24 and 25.

The African Boxing Confederation (AFBC) was supposed to elect a new President at its Extraordinary Congress to succeed Bertrand Mendouga this month in Durban but was postponed due to a row over the list of candidates.

While AFBC announced later that they will conduct the elections on November 18 in Africa, IBA wants its continental member to hold them in Dubai.

This has led to a tricky situation with IBA threatening not to cover the costs of the Congress if it is held in Africa.

IBA President Umar Kremlev has enjoyed great support from Africa so far, but Nigeria departing could be the beginning of a mass exodus.

However, the Asian Boxing Confederation recently said its will stick with the Russian-led body until World Boxing gets International Olympic Committee recognition.

Super Eagles Manager, Peseiro, Backs Under-fire Uzoho Nigeria head coach Jose Peseiro has offered his backing to under-fire goalkeeper Francis Uzoho, saying “every player makes mistakes”.

Uzoho’s form was the biggest talking point following the Super Eagles’ recent friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique.

The Omonia Nicosia stopper, 24, had an error-strewn run. His most glaring mistake came against Saudi Arabia when he misjudged a flighted delivery, palming it into his own net.

“In Nigeria, every time they attack the goalkeepers,” Peseiro told BBC Sport Africa.

“Why don’t they attack the strikers who miss goals? It is the same.”

Uzoho has yet to make a single appearance for his Cypriot club side this season. With his form suffering and confidence severely dented, a significant portion of supporters are in favour of his removal from the starting line-up.

However, Peseiro is backing

his number one, who made his international debut aged 19.

“If I change them every time, or punish them when they make mistakes, one day I won’t have any players, because every player makes mistakes,” he said.

“We understand and accept that the fans are free to shout or speak. It is normal.

“Me, Uzoho and the players accept that. It is my obligation and my responsibility to keep the confidence and support our players.”

Arsenal will be looking to sustain their title charge when they take on Chelsea at the Stamford Bridge today on matchday nine of the English Premier League season. The match is set to broadcast live on GOtv. Mikel Arteta’s team head into this London derby on the back of 1-0 victory over Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium which ended the Gunners’ 12-game losing streak against the defending champions in the league.

The host, Chelsea are hoping to get their third consecutive league win this season, after

defeating Fulham and Burnley in their last two games. The match will be on SuperSport Premier League (ch 66) at 5:30pm today.

Liverpool will be keen to return to winning when they host their city rivals, Everton at the Anfield Stadium, it would be on SuperSport Premier League (ch 66) at 12:30pm.

Meanwhile, defending champions, Manchester City, will be looking to end their two-game winless streak in the league when they take on Brighton & Hove Albion at 3pm, while Manchester United will be on away duty against Sheffield United at 8pm.

Napoli will clash with Hella Verona at 2pm on SuperSport Select 1 (ch 63) today, while AC Milan will face a tough test against Juventus at the San Siro Stadium tomorrow on SuperSport Select 1 (ch 63) at 7:45pm.

While in the La Liga, Sergio Ramos is set for an unfriendly reunion with Los Blancos when Sevilla hosts Real Madrid at the Ramon Pizjuan Stadium at 5:30pm on SuperSport La Liga (ch 62), while Barcelona will host Atletico Bilbao on Sunday at 8pm on SuperSport La Liga (ch 62).

BMX Targets Paris 2024 Olympics with First Park in W’Africa The first BMX park in West Africa was launched in Lagos over the weekend with the excitement of the Nigerian BMX community.

Spain based Red Bull athlete born in Nigeria, Courage Adams, had a wish for a park where the BMX community could practice and grow in their love and skill for BMX, from the moment he visited the country and saw what could be, it was a given the need was to be met and plans were set in motion to this present day.

In collaboration with LASPARK, Red Bull has made Courage

Adams’ dream a reality. The community can push limits with a world-class BMX facility, hang out, and interact in the space.

It is open to all and for the benefit of young BMX athletes as well as enthusiasts. This project is not just about building the first BMX/skatepark facility in Lagos, Nigeria but also about impacting the BMX sports community and for these youth to learn and continue to improve their skills as future athletes.

With BMX now a part of the Olympics, Nigeria might just get a participating athlete in Paris

2024, who knows? Courage Adams expresses his excitement for the park saying “For the future, it would bring a lot of opportunities to the country, to have professional athletes come from the country, it would be a dream come true to see the guys competing at the Olympics, traveling around, living the life, living the dream.

“From my encouraging trip two years ago, I saw the talent these guys had developed without having anything and that was powerful, they are strong, brave, and full of positive energy,” he explained.

Oando Promotes Sports with Alake Golf Tournament Sponsorship Oando PLC is set to promote sportsmanship by sponsoring the Alake Golf Tournament from October 26 – 28, at the Abeokuta Golf Club, Oke Mosan,Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Oando believes that sport is a powerful tool that can foster national unityanddrivepositivechange.Asthe country continues its journey of social cohesion and national reconciliation, communitiescanbenefitalotofpositive through sports.

Organised by the Abeokuta Golf Club, this prestigious annual golfing event reinforces Oando’s

dedication to empowering local communities and fostering social development in the country.

The 2023 Alake Golf Tournament promises to celebrate unity and camaraderie, welcoming around 200 participants, including skilled and amateur golfers nationwide.

The event will kick off on Thursday, October 26, with the Caddies’ Competition, followed by the Professionals’ Competition on Friday, October 27, and the Amateurs’ event is slated for Saturday, October 28.

The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty Oba (Dr) Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, Okukenu 1V

Enoh Commends NBBF for Zenith Women’s Basketball League The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has commended the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF), led by Musa Kida, for their organisation of the Women’s Basketball League Final Four, held in Lagos from October 17 to 19.

The Minister was present at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, where he witnessed a thrilling match between MFM Basketball and Nigerian Customs. MFM Basketball clinched the victory with a 64-60 score, to claim the league title.

Enoh showered encomiums on the Lagos-based team for their tenacity, determination, and

resilience displayed on their path to securing the championship. He expressed his enthusiasm about the quality of the games and the wealth of talent available for potential national team selections.

“In this Final Four, the level of competition we’ve seen unequivocally demonstrates the significant progress women’s basketball has made,” Senator Enoh stated. “The depth of talent we have is extraordinary, providing a strong pool for national team selections. The recent dominance of D’Tigress in Africa doesn’t come as a surprise; it’s a testament to our wealth of talent, both locally and abroad. When this kind of talent is available both home and abroad, the best of

the best from Nigeria can beat any team.”

“We are blessed with an abundance of talent, and I’m confident that scouts and coaches have been closely monitoring these proceedings. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to MFM Basketball for their inaugural league title. Their journey to victory was filled with determination and hard work. It’s also heartening to see privately-owned clubs excelling in our sports.”

The Minister also commended Zenith Bank, the league’s sponsors, for their unwavering support to Nigerian basketball and called upon other organizations to take a cue and invest in sports.

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Saturday, October 21, 2023

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Oby Ezekwesili to Lawmakers

“Since not even one of you saw the heartlessness of that decision to buy new SUVs for yourselves at this time of severe economic distress of the citizens and country, please know that you all are the biggest threat to our democracy” –Former minister of education, Oby Ezekwesili, criticizing the procurement of 109 Toyota Land Cruisers for senators and 360 Toyota Prado for House of Representatives members.

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UZOR MAXIM UZOATU Remembering Ken Saro-Wiwa @ 82 GUEST COLUMNIST

K

enule Beeson Saro-Wiwa, famously known as Ken SaroWiwa, would have been 82 on October 10. My lionized friend packed too many lifetimes into one life. His hanging by the General Sani Abacha regime on November 10, 1995 was a universal cause célèbre. It can be all too easy for many to give Ogoni activism the greater parameter in any discussion of the mourned one, but make no mistake about it: it was literature that offered Ken Saro-Wiwa the needed pedestal to bestride the globe.

Born on October 10, 1941, Ken Saro-Wiwa understood the power of the written word from very early in his educational attainments.

By the time he got admitted to the famous Government College, Umuahia, his embrace of the liberal arts was total. At the University of Ibadan, he upped the ante with service as the President of the Dramatic Society, and he equally weighed in as a redoubtable performer with the University Travelling Theatre.

It was indeed a problematic world that Ken Saro-Wiwa grew up into, needing to break from Biafra during the civil war into the larger Nigerian nation. The politics of the time is not my forte here. It suffices to stress that beyond the politics of the war and the aftermath, Ken Saro-Wiwa was poised on a literary upswing when he was among the over six hundred wannabes who entered for the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), London playwriting competition in October 1971 tagged “Write A Play For Africa”. Ken Saro-Wiwa’s entry entitled “The Transistor Radio” won the “Joint Fourth Prize” alongside fellow Nigerian Charles C. Umeh’s “Double Attack” and Ghanaian Derlene Clems’ “Scholarship Woman”. The First Prize was won by the South African Richard Rive for his two-actor play “Make Like Slaves”. The three judges for the contest were Wole Soyinka, Martin Esslin and Lewis Nkosi.

Soyinka’s statement on “The Transistor Radio” reads thus: “It is really well shaped.

We get a sense of literally the whole city being fake and phoney, and in the end you wonder if such a town exists. But in spite of that the characters are there, their vitality, their will to live. Their means are discreditable but the author achieves this difficult task of arousing condemnation and at the same time admiration for the individuals.” According to Lewis Nkosi, “Transistor Radio really captured my heart.

The quality of the dialogue really gave me the feeling of real people talking. I’m very partial to comedy when it is well done, and really one must prize comedy because these problems are so crucial that often there is a tendency to be very weighty, morally weighty, about them.”

It is indeed interesting that the celebrated Jimi Solanke played the lead role of Basi in the BBC recording of the play on July 23, 1972. “The Transistor Radio” is a very

Saro-Wiwa

funny comedy about the young unemployed Lagos man Basi who devises many tricks for not paying his rent to the landlady and generally surviving on the edge in the big city with bright lights. It can be argued that the entire theatrical output of Ken Saro-Wiwa via the television series “Basi and Company” emanated from the 30-minute radio play “The Transistor Radio”. Ken Saro-Wiwa spelt his name back then as Ken Tsaro-Wiwa.

Writing also as Ken Tsaro-Wiwa, he first got published in 1973 by the Lagos-based Longmans Publishers with two children’s books: Tambari and Tambari in Dukana. The eponymous hero’s adventures in the rural beach town of Dukana are captured within the ambit of childlike innocence and magic.

The half-human, half-fish Mami-water rules the waves. There is the arresting story of the happy-go-lucky man Kaiza who threw his fishing net into the waters and came up with “a bag of money” which he eventually lost. Like Basi in “The Transistor Radio” the thematic thread reads: “Come easy, go easy.”

Nothing much issued from Ken Saro-Wiwa’s pen after the initial promise of the early 1970s. He had to wait till 1985 to publish a collection of poems Songs in a Time of War through his newly-established publishing company Saros, based in Port Harcourt.

The verses are in fine a meditation on the Nigeria-Biafra war though the longest piece in the collection, a pidgin poem “Dis Nigeria Sef” was written in 1977, seven years after the war had ended. Poetry, it has to be stated, is not Ken Saro-Wiwa’s strongest forte.

Ken Saro-Wiwa raised not a little controversy upon the publishing in 1985 of Sozaboy: A Novel in Rotten English. The book based on the meaninglessness of war can be said to be Ken Saro-Wiwa’s magnum opus. His use

of language, which he calls “rotten English”, has been acclaimed by some critics. The title character Sozaboy is a naïve young recruit in the war who lacks any understanding of what he is in the war for, and ends up broken.

The critic Pita Okute, writing in Vanguard newspaper, dismissed Sozaboy for having a “silly plot”.

This criticism drew the ire of Ken Saro-Wiwa who had to depict the critic Pita Okute as Pita Dumbrok in his novel-in-progress being published in the Nigerian newspapers. The novel was eventually published as Prisoners of Jebs with Pita Dumbrok mouthing “silly plot” at every turn. He first wrote about the novel-in-progress in his 1977 column in The Punch newspaper. The column eventually resurrected in Vanguard newspaper in 1985.

Jebs Prison was set up by the then Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on an artificial island in the Atlantic Ocean off the Nigerian coast.

Ken Saro-Wiwa penned a sequel to the novel entitled Pita Dumbrok’s Prison.

Building on the early gravitas of “The Transistor Radio” and the hit television series he created, Ken Saro-Wiwa published Basi and Company: A Modern African Folktale in 1987. Basi deploys the trickster motif of the tortoise in African fables to survive all obstacles. It is within this domain that Saro-Wiwa in the selfsame 1987 published Basi and Company: Four Television Plays.

Ken Saro-Wiwa’s collection of short stories, A Forest of Flowers, was shortlisted for the Commonwealth Writers Prize in 1987.

Graham Hough, writing in London Review of Books, stressed: “Ken Saro-Wiwa’s extremely accomplished collection of short stories stands to Nigeria in something of the same relation as Joyce’s Dubliners to Ireland… There is great variety… and immense satisfaction for the reader in the adroitness and variety of the presentation.” In 1989 Ken Saro-Wiwa published another collection of short stories Adaku & Other Stories via his overseas publishing company, Saros International, London. The 176-page-book contains 18 short stories. Twelve of the stories deal subtly with man-woman relations in a manner ahead of its time.

Ken Saro-Wiwa’s memoirs based on the civil war, On a Darkling Plain: An Account of the Nigerian Civil War, was published in 1989 and was launched in Lagos to much controversy. Critics from the Biafran side of the war divide argued that Saro-Wiwa was pandering to federalist apologetics especially as he made bold to stress in the book that rebel leader Chukwuemeka OdumegwuOjukwu deserved death. The author dared the marginalization of the minority tribes especially his native Ogoni by the majority Igbo in the war drive for Biafra.

There was a dramatic turn to fighting for Ogoni minority rights at the turn of 1990 by Ken Saro-Wiwa. He published Genocide in Nigeria: The Ogoni Tragedy in 1992. Ken Saro-Wiwa’s struggle would eventually lead to his judicial murder on November 10, 1995. His detention diaries were released

posthumously in 1995 through the book A Month and a Day: A Detention Diary. It was published in New York by Penguin Books.

His other book Lemona’s Tale was published in 1996 by Penguin in London.

Many books by other authors have been put out on the Ken Saro-Wiwa cause after his death, notably Remembering Ken Saro-Wiwa and Other Essays by Adewale Maja-Pearce. Controversy dogged the book like Ken Saro-Wiwa’s life. Becky Clarke of Ayebia Clarke Literary Agency & Publishing Ltd had all but agreed terms with Adewale Maja-Pearce to have the book released in 2005 until controversy supervened. Ken Saro-Wiwa’s son, Ken Wiwa, author of In the Shadow of a Saint, asked for the book to be censored because Adewale had in a newspaper interview averred that Ken Saro-Wiwa was a former friend f General Sani Abacha. Publisher Clarke who was almost poised to release the book had to go back to “re-editing” it in order to stay in line with the liberal establishment that had always held Ken Saro-Wiwa up as a saint. Adewale on his part argued that he would only remove a word if a qualified libel lawyer found anything libelous in the essay. Incidentally Adewale stresses that Ken Wiwa helped him with some of his sources for the essay, notably Richard Boele who in his 1995 Report of the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organisation (UNPO) Mission to Investigate the Situation of the Ogonis of Nigeria wrote: “In Nigeria, there is a clear patronage system that usually runs along family, tribal, or friendship lines. Large sums of money are simply given through the granting of government or company contracts for road building, electrification and so on… Many of the Ogoni leaders… benefited from this patronage system – securing either government or oil company contracts… Ken Saro-Wiwa also received such government contracts in the 70s and 80s but ceded this practice in the 1990s so as not to compromise him once he became actively involved in the political struggle…” In the end, Adewale Maja-Pearce published the book through the Lagos-based New Gong Collective.

Ken Saro-Wiwa lived indeed a charmed life as the leader of the Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People (MOSOP) but it was his work as a writer that gave him the international gravitas that propelled the cause. He is not any critic’s idea of the sophisticated writer.

He deals with the well-told story rendered without any affectation whatsoever. His corpus of works can be read without much difficulty by the average general reader. He carved his own niche in popular literature, thus adding his own unique dimension to the distinguished literary alumni of Government College, Umuahia and University College, Ibadan, a formidable cast made up of Chinua Achebe, Christopher Okigbo, Elechi Amadi, Chukwuemeka Ike etc. Ken Saro-Wiwa can never truly die despite the hangman’s noose because he wrote himself into eternity on the bookshelves of history.

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