THURSDAY 2ND NOVEMBER 2023

NLC, TUC, Police Trade Words over Alleged Abduction, Brutalisation of Ajaero in Imo Labour threatens nationwide strike Police: we took him into protective custody We have no hand in Ajaero’s arrest, Imo govt declares NLC president regains freedom, receiving treatment at FMC, Owerri Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Tony Icheku in Owerri and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The alleged abduction and brutalisation of President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero,

yesterday, has continued to generate reactions, as the Imo State Police Command, NLC, and the Trade

Union Congress (TUC) traded words.

However, NLC revealed yesterday that Ajaero had been admitted at the

Federal Medical Centre in Owerri for treatment of wounds he sustained from alleged manhandling by the

police.

Continued on page 10

Thursday 02 November, 2023 Vol 28. No 10431. Price: N250

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NUPRC Summons Crude Producers, Says Local Refineries Must Get Supply Before Export... Page 5

Court Restrains Rivers Assembly from Impeaching Fubara

Police arrest, drag governor's supporters to court Wike warns detractors, says he can’t be intimidated FCT minister: I will do what I want to do, declares impeachment is constitutional, not coup Ijaw leaders, traditional rulers, groups call for peace Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja, Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt and

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

Rivers State High Court sitting in

Isiokpo Division in Ikwerre Local Government Area of the State, yesterday, issued an interim order

restraining the Rivers State House of Assembly, Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule and others from

carrying out any actions with respect to the plot to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

The restraining order came just Continued on page 10

We Must Succeed By All Means, Tinubu Declares Seeks National Assembly's nod to borrow $7.8bn, €100m external loans Vows not to spare any resources in bid to turn nation around Perform or be sacked, president tells ministers, advisers British High Commissioner hails FG’s reforms World Bank’s commitments in Nigeria since 2020 over $11bn, says country director Deji Elumoye and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja President Bola Tinubu has declared that his administration would certainly succeed in its effort to turn

the country around and deliver on the expectations of Nigerians, who voted him into office.

Tinubu spoke yesterday at the Continued on page 10

workers' president brutalised...

NLC President, Joe Ajaero, arrested and allegedly brutalised by Police in Imo for leading protest against the State Government over lack of respect for workers, unpaid salaries and pensions, amongst others… yesterday

HURIWA to Tinubu, DSS: Tell Nigerians Why You Detained Bawa for Months... Page 6

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

NEWS

60th Birthday celebrations for Hajia Basirat...

L-R- Mr. Eniola Bello, Managing Director, THISDAY Newspapers; Prince Ayorinde Adedoyin, Managing Director, Peacegate Group; Hajia Basirat Motunrayo Adedoyin, Celebrant; Alhaji Raheem Adedoyin, celebrant's husband; Sir Folu Olamiti, celebrated editor and media executive and Prince Olabode Odetundun , Business Head, Real Estate Advisory, Investment One Financial Services Group at the 60th Birthday celebrations for Hajia Basirat in Lagos...at the Weekend

NUPRC Summons Crude Producers, Says Local Refineries Must Get Supply Before Export

Insists massive fuel imports harming economy Urges feedstock suppliers, refinery owners to negotiate currency of transactions Commission gets request from Dangote refinery to guarantee crude supply Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) yesterday met with crude oil producers in the country in its renewed bid to ensure that local crude oil refineries get undisrupted feedstock, especially with the expected commencement of operations of the 650,000 Dangote refinery.

The Chief Executive of the NUPRC, Mr Gbenga Komolafe, told the scores of crude oil producers in attendance at the meeting in Abuja that the move was in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which mandates the oil producers to fulfil their domestic obligations to local refineries.

Komolafe insisted that it will be a national shame if Nigeria is not able to supply the modular refineries as well as the upcoming Dangote refinery enough feedstock for their operations.

“This meeting has to do with an issue of importance to us as an oil-producing nation. Recall that Nigeria is the single largest oil producer in Africa, the seventh in OPEC and in the world we are seen as a nation with huge oil reserves of about 38 billion barrels.

“So we are blessed as a nation.

But ironically, despite all these abundant reserves, paradoxically

we are a net importer of refined products and from the data, we are all aware that our inability to meet our domestic refining obligations, has impacted negatively on our economy.

“If we're able to meet our domestic refining obligations, we'll be able to impact largely on some of the costs in pricing of refined product. So it behoves on us all as an industry to find a way to make Nigeria a net exporter of refined products. “ And that is the issue that we have gathered here today to address as an industry. Good enough, the PIA has a provision that mandates this. As a commission, it is part of our work to engage the industry as we try to implement this legal provision of the PIA on domestic crude obligation as enshrined in the provisions of the PIA,” he said.

Quoting relevant parts of the PIA, Komolafe stated that it was in contemplation of this that Section 109 of the new law introduced the Domestic Crude Supply Obligation (DCSO) to Nigeria's oil industry in a bid to ensure that domestic refineries have enough crude supply for their operations.

Komolafe reiterated that the law currently stipulates that the supply of crude oil to the domestic market shall be on a "willing buyer and

willing seller" basis, wherein the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Agency (NMDPRA) shall report to the commission where there is inadequate supply to the refineries.

Where there is a reported crude supply shortage from the Authority, the commission, he said, is under obligation to issue a Request for Quotation (RFQ) to producers asking for submission of quotations for bridging the deficit and subsequently contact affected refineries to facilitate

contract negotiations between the stakeholders.

He described the domestic supply obligation as the requirement imposed by the government on oil producers to allocate a certain portion of their production for domestic consumption.

This, he pointed out, is done to ensure stable and reliable supply of products for the country's domestic needs. Going by the PIA, he stated that the NUPRC has the mandate to ensure that that obligation to

Ilaje stakeholders in Ondo State have reacted to the statement made by Elder Statesman and Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, calling for the outright removal of Ondo, Imo and Abia States from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The National Coordinator, Concerned Ilaje Stakeholders Committee, Mr. Akinola Gbonegun, who frowned at the call while speaking as a guest yesterday, on ‘The Morning Show’ on ARISE NEWS Channels, the broadcast arm of THISDAY Newspapers, asked Clark to take his grievance

to the National Assembly, if he was not comfortable with the federal government’s zoning of the NDDC’s leadership.

According to him, such statement should not have come from an Elder Statesman like Clark, who knows the law better than other citizens from the Niger Delta region.

Clark had in a statement, called for the removal of Ondo, Imo and Abia states from the NDDC catchment areas, because they are minority stakeholders that contribute insignificant percentage to the oil exploration in the Niger Delta region.

According to Clark, it was abnormal for states that produce

violators of the rules.

The NUPRC chief executive explained that a company that fails to comply with its domestic supply obligation will not be granted export permit for crude oil for the lease area.

While imploring the oil producers to take the provision seriously, he stated that it was in the interest of the nation that the provision is implemented, but said that sanctions and penalties were not a priority of the provision.

FG: Nigeria’s Urban Population to Rise to 60% by 2030 Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The federal government has said that the population of Nigerians currently living in the urban areas will jump from the current 50 per cent to 60 per cent by 2030, underscoring the need to plan for the increase accordingly.

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, who made the disclosure, stressed that there was the need to ensure proper collaboration between the private and public sectors to ensure that the plans come to fruition.

Stressing that the availability of financing for affordable housing and urban development in the country remains a challenge, Dangiwa, who was represented by the Minister of State in the ministry, Abdullahi Gwarzo, explained that stakeholders should work towards ensuring that the challenges are mitigated.

He spoke during the commemoration of the 2023 World Habitat Day and World Cities Day organised by the ministry in Abuja themed: “Financing Sustainable Urban Future for All.” “The federal government of Nigeria is paying very thoughtful

Ilaje Community Leader Faults Clark’s Call for Removal of Ondo, Imo, Abia from NDDC

Emma Okonji and Nosa Alekhuogie

local refineries is met.

However, he stated that the law provides that crude oil can only be supplied to companies with active licenses and are currently in operation. He stated that this shall be done having regard to the prevailing international oil prices.

Accordingly, Komolafe stated that all producers have been requested to provide information on their outstanding purchase agreement with refiners, noting that the commission shall take steps to sanction

0.01 per cent of crude oil, to aspire to become the chairman of NDDC, insisting that such states should therefore be removed completely from the NDDC region.

But in his reaction, Gbonegun, said the Ilaje community decided to react to the statement because it came from someone that ought to know better about the workings of the NDDC. He, therefore, said the reaction became necessary in order to put the records straight.

“With due respect to ‘Baba’ who is an Elder Statesman, I disagree with him, because I do not think he is right in making such statement.

Ondo State for instance, produces

more than five per cent of crude oil in Nigeria.

“The grouping of Ondo, Imo and Abia into NDDC region was an Act of Parliament in 2000, and for Chief Edwin Clark to call for outright removal of the three states after 23 years, is not acceptable. He can go back to parliament to contest it instead of making a statement that is of anti-government’s position,” Gbonegun said.

He referred Clark to the 8-point Agenda of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu that was developed on rule of law and advised him to respect the rule of law that grouped Ondo, Imo and Abia States under the NDDC region.

attention to the issues and challenges of urbanisation in the country.

“The issue of financing for affordable housing and urban infrastructure remain the cardinal focus of the ministry and we solicit collaborations and partnerships from our development partners and other stakeholders,” Dangiwa stated.

Describing urbanisation as one of the most transformative forces shaping the world in the 21st century, the minister explained that it is a phenomenon that can be harnessed to enhance economic productivity, inclusive growth, and environmental sustainability.

“Urban dwellers now account for more than 50 per cent of Nigeria’s population and are expected to increase to 60 per cent by the year 2030.

“It is our duty therefore to make adequate preparations for the expected upsurge of the population in our towns and cities through effective urban planning and management and building the needed resilience and innovations to absorb the expected shocks,” he added.

According to him, the government envisages an urban future where economic growth and prosperity proceed with equity, where human exploitation of the natural environment is carried on sustainably and one where poverty and inequality are reduced by strong human-centred policies.

“Provision of adequate and affordable housing in both urban and rural areas in the secure,

healthy, and decent environment for all Nigerians is the primary mandate of this ministry and equally one of the cardinal focuses of the present administration’s renewed hope agenda.

“Therefore, the issues of housing and urban development are being given the deserved attention. We, therefore call for private sector investments in the sector by leveraging on the ministry’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement already in place,” he added.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Senator Gbenga Ashafa, said it was time to make the environment more habitable, secure, and environmentally sustainable for Nigerians.

One of the ways of recovering from the current global economic meltdown, due to Nigeria’s overdependence on crude oil export, he said, is to diversify into housing construction.

“The government has to make a concerted and deliberate effort at urban development, through the building of new cities and regenerating of the old ones.

“Through this, not only will we provide houses to our people, we will also deliver a more liveable and secure environment to them,” he said.

He further stated that the value chain of the housing industry remains the surest bet for creating jobs, both directly and indirectly, employing both professionals and non-professionals.

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PDP GOVERNORS ON PEACE MISSION...

L-R: Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, Chairman. PDP Governors Forum and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. Plateau State Governor, Caleb Muftwang and PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE Taraba State Governor Kefas Agbu during the visit of the PDP Governors Forum to the FCT Minister in Abuja. yesterday

Gaza War: Envoy Calls for Immediate Ceasefire, Address of Root Cause of Crisis Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Palestinian Ambassador to Nigeria, Abdullah Shawesh has asked Nigeria and other countries to call for immediate ceasefire in Gaza, even as he insisted that the only acceptable solution to the ongoing war is to address the root cause of the conflict between Palestine and Israel.

Shawesh while noting that the attack on Israeli territory on October 7, 2023 was a smoke as the fire was long ignited by United Kingdom who handed over Palestinian land to European Jews in 1917, noted that to have a lasting truce it has become imperative to institute the two-state solution backed by United Nations.

He also declared the two sides should be made to return hostages in their custody, noting that apart from Palestinian hostages held by the Israeli government before the ongoing impasse over 1,600 hostages have been taken from Palestinian soil

by Israeli military, adding that while Hamas is being asked to return the hostages, Israel should also be told to do same.

The envoy while addressing journalists in Abuja on Wednesday said the two-state solution calls for establishing an independent state for Palestinians alongside that of Israel, while insisting that the underlying issue in the present crisis was not the October 7 attack on Israel by

Hamas but rather the occupation of Gaza Strip, West Bank and East Jerusalem.

He claimed that the October7 attack on Israeli territory was a natural reaction against the oppression of the Israeli forces, who he alleged has incessantly arrested, tortured and detained Palestinians without any provocations.

The envoy who gave a historic perspective to the issue, blamed the Western world, especially United Kingdom who he said handed over their land to European Jews in 1917.

He also accused the Western world of paying lip service to the call for ceasefire, alleging that without the support of the West the Israeli would

not have been able to sustain the war.

The envoy also accused the media of cover-up, saying most of the atrocities against the people of Palestinians are not reported, noting that the urgent need right now is cessation of hostility and not the humanitarian aids.

He said: "This current war would not have continued without the unconditional and unequivocal support of the Western countries to Israel. We all witnessed the mass visits by Western leaders not only to provide their full military and political support for the current genocide.

“They also have used extremely unbalanced language in commenting on the current ongoing war against

House to Probe Money Spent on Postponed 2023 Population, Housing Census by NPC ....Urges Tinubu to declare date for population, housing census exercises

Juliet Akoje in Abuja The House of Representatives has mandated its Committee on Population to investigate the money expended on the postponed 2023 Population and Housing Census by the National Population Commission, NPC, and liaise with NPC to ensure a successful population and housing census when scheduled.

The House also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a date for the population and housing census exercises and conduct the 2023 population and housing census to facilitate accurate economic planning.

These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion on the Need to Investigate the Expenditure on the Postponed 2023 Population and Housing Census by the National Population Commission and Conduct of the National Population/ Housing Census moved by Hon. Dominic Okafor and Hon. Patrick Umoh.

While presenting the motion, Okafor noted that census provides accurate population data crucial for development planning, policy formulation, resource allocation, and government program implementation, especially at a time when the federal government in conjunction with state governments are working on giving palliatives to vulnerable citizens and also planning other social services.

He also noted that the NPC in Nigeria conducts periodic censuses,

surveys, and other methods to enumerate the country's population, providing data for national planning and economic development.

His words: "The national census was last conducted in Nigeria in 2006 and the 2023 census, which was scheduled for May 2023, was postponed by the National Population Commission; The data collected in the 2006 Population Census is far from reality in 2023 and cannot validly form a solid base for the formation of national economic policies that will aid the federal government in administering viable national planning.”

The lawmaker recalled that the NPC has admitted to having spent two hundred billion Naira (N200, 000, 000, 000) as part of the eight hundred billion Naira (N800, 000, 000, 000) budgeted for the planning mid-execution of the 2023 population and housing census, which was postponed.

He further recalled that the financial investment in 2023 population census planning would have improved economic planning and distribution of palliatives in the country.

"The National Population Commission remarks, that if the population and housing census fails to take place within 12 months, the information gathered across the country would become stale, a waste of resources and the country would have to increase costs of gathering fresh information," he said.

Aware that the NPC, led by the

Chairman, Alhaji Nasir Isa Kwarra, expressed readiness to conduct a population and housing census during a visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on July 6, 2023.

The House further urged the federal government to, on fixing

a date for the census, constitute Census Tribunals in designated centres in accordance with Section 28 of the NPC Act, 2004 and also urged the NPC not to relent in its preparation for the 2023 Population and Housing Census.

the Palestinian people, which was interpreted by the Israeli as the green light to commit more massacres.

"One of the goals of this war is to forcefully transfer the Palestinian people to Sinai Peninsula, to implement the old Israeli dream that we

have been fighting against since 1956.

"Many are still trying to divert the discussion from the unconditional ceasefire to the humanitarian aids and how many trucks need to enter to Gaza and many other logistical details."

HURIWA to Tinubu, DSS: Tell Nigerians Why You Detained Bawa for Months Chuks Okocha in Abuja In light of the recent revelation that the Department of State Security (DSS) has released the former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised critical questions about democracy and transparency in Nigeria.

HURIWA in a statement demanded full disclosure from both President Bola Tinubu and the DSS regarding the circumstances surrounding Bawa's arrest, detention, and subsequent release.

"The sequence of events surrounding Bawa's detention is bewildering.

The DSS arrested him in a manner akin to Gestapo tactics on June 14, detaining him for an extended period without filing any charges. “ The Nigerian public must be

informed about the reasons behind this inexcusable and unjustified detention. In the name of democracy, transparency, and accountability, we insist that the truth must come to light,” HURIWA said.

National Coordinator of the group, Emmanuel Onwubiko, said that Bawa's release had occurred under a cloud of suspicion and secrecy.

“It is important to note that Bawa resigned from his position while still in detention. This fact raises questions about the circumstances leading to his resignation.

"The people of Nigeria deserve to know whether this resignation was voluntary or coerced, highlighting the potential abuse of power.

"Therefore, the hasty and covert nature of Bawa's arrest, detention, and subsequent release necessitates a comprehensive explanation from the DSS and President Tinubu.

President Must Review PIA to Uphold Nigeria’s Interest, Says NGEP Chairman

Says Nigerian industrialists pay 10 times higher for gas than its export price

Dike Onwuamaeze The Chairman, National Gas Expansion Program (NGEP), Dr. Mohammed M. Ibrahim, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to show clear interest in Nigeria’s gas sector and urgently carry out a serious review of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021 to ensure that it would serve the country’s best interests.

Ibrahim, gave the call yesterday, in Lagos, as the keynote speaker at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (LCCI) “Autogas Opportunity Fair,” which was organised by the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Group of the LCCI. He warned that if the government failed review the PIA and its policies Nigeria might end up importing natural gas just as it is currently importing cooking gas.

He said: “We came out with the Gas Master Plan (GMP) in 2000 when we started the oil and gas implementation reform. But the International Oil Companies (IOCs) resisted it because some of the recommendations were so fundamental to their interest and they started working on the legislatures to scuttle the report and delayed it until 2021 with the passage of the Petroleum Industrial Act (PIA).

“When I saw the version of the PIA that former President Muhammadu Buhari signed into law, I wept for my country and for the generations yet unborn in this country.

“That is why President Tinubu has no choice but to review the PIA 2021 because it will never deliver the Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

It will never ever deliver what the country requires. And that is why

its implementation at best has been very tepid.”

He said that it would serve Nigeria better if the country should focus more on adding value to the natural gas in the country rather than exporting natural gas in its raw form.

He stated that the NGEP was created to serve as a catalyst for adding value to the vast natural gas that Nigeria is endowed with.

“Essentially the NGEP is not interested in taking our molecule for export. We are not interested in the brass LNG. We are not interested in the LNG Train 7, 8 etc.

“We are interested in LNG for Nigeria’s utilisation. We are interested in the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for Nigeria. We are interested in LPG for Nigeria. Our focus is to ensure that every single molecule

we have is produced in the country, utilised in the country, transformed in the country and only the finished product is moved out. That is what that has made the NGEP to be very unpopular.

“If we have 100 per cent of raw materials for making LPG cylinders produced in country. Won’t that improve our foreign reserve? It will.

“But the biggest of them all is the gas based industry. We have a programme around natural gas that will enable every raw material we need for the petrochemicals, paints, insecticide, pesticide all the fertiliser for agriculture production.”

According to him, Nigeria came out with the Gas Master Plan in 2000 when it became clear that the manner the country has mismanaged its oil resources should not be transferred to the gas resources.

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Cabinet Retreat...

L-R: Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Folashade Yemi-Esan; APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje; Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Benjamen Kalu; Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the cabinet retreat held at the Conference center of the Presidential Villa, Abuja..... yesterday

NESI @10: Sahara Group’s GMD, Kola Adesina Charts Pathway to Power Sector Recovery Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Group Managing Director of Sahara Group, with interests in Egbin Power and Ikeja Distribution Company (Disco), Mr Kola Adesina, yesterday listed several actions that must be taken by stakeholders for Nigeria’s beleaguered power sector to begin its journey to full recovery.

The businessman whose company also has stakes in the upstream and downstream petroleum industry, spoke on the last day of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) roundtable in Abuja to mark the 10th anniversary of the partial privatisation of the power sector.

According to Adesina, one thing that must be done is that if the government must subsidise, this should be directed to the production of power.

He further stressed that there must be alignment of the entire value chain from gas to customer , while pricing must be segmented and must reflect market realities as well as align with the customer experience.

He also suggested that electricity consumers in Nigeria must be turned to paying customers, advising

that technology must be introduced to deliver optimum service.

In adding, he stated that government institutions and agencies must pay for electricity supply while access to forex must be given to the power sector.

Besides, Adesina noted that a consumer Assistance Fund must be financed in line with market realities, the same way clustering of customers must be done alone service lines. He also posited that policies and regulations must be stable and predictable. “ Economies/industrial and commercial entities must be prioritised in terms of supply. Legacy debts must be cleared. Investor confidence must be assured. Renewable energy must be deployed to all categories of customers, particularly the underserved and unserved markets,” he advised.

Speaking on the achievements of Ikeja Disco, he stated that in 2019, it made history by being the first to launch a bilateral project between the Disco and customers.

He added that this showcased the company’s collaborative spirit and dedication to achieving excellence through teamwork.

“ This service aimed to provide improved electricity to our customers which was made possible by investment in infrastructure upgrade, improved working relationship with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and a dedicated 24-hour maintenance service.

“This emphasised our commitment to providing seamless service and setting new standards in the industry. The same year witnessed the launch of the e-billing platform, making us pioneers in embracing digital solutions for the convenience of our customers.

“This is a testament to our adaptability, innovation, and commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements,” he added.

Adesina explained that the company also achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Disco to attain all three certifications: Quality Management System- ISO 9001:2015, Occupational Health and Safety Management System- ISO 45001:2018, and Environmental Management System- ISO 14001:2015.

These achievements, he said, reflect the dedication and hard work of NESI, noting that in 2023, the company celebrated a remarkable reduction in collection and techni-

The House of Representatives has passed for second reading, a Bill seeking to amend the Interpretation Act, 2004, to provide conditions for appointment and assumption of offices in acting capacity.

The proposed legislation titled, "Bill for an Act to Amend the Interpretation Act, Cap. 123, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to provide Conditions for Appointment and Assumption of Office in Acting capacity, to provide the meaning of certain words and for Related Matters", was sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Hon. Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere and five other lawmakers.

Leading the debate on its general principles at the plenary Wednesday, Hon. Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, said the Bill seeks to provide for the amendment of Sections 11 and 18 of the Principal Act. It also seeks to provide for

limitations and conditions for the appointment and assumption of office in an acting capacity on one hand and on the other hand to incorporate the meaning of certain words into the extant Act. Ugochinyere explained that the Interpretation Act was enacted to provide for the construction and interpretation of Acts of the National Assembly and certain other instruments.

He added that the Bill, if passed, would not impose any additional cost on the government.

The lawmaker recalled that the power to appoint a person in acting capacity has been, at best, described as abused in the recent past.

Ugochinyere noted: "There have been numerous situations where persons not ordinarily qualified to hold certain offices were appointed to hold such offices in acting capacity.

"Section 11 of the Interpretation Act provides that where an enactment confers a power to appoint

their energy consumption and fostering a sense of empowerment.

“As we celebrate a decade of achievements, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to every one of you—our dedicated and hardworking team members. Your commitment, passion, and resilience have been the driving force behind our success.

“As we look back on our journey, let us also look forward to the exciting possibilities that the future holds.

Together, as one cohesive team, let us continue to illuminate lives, empower communities, and drive Ikeja Electric Plc to even greater heights while bringing energy to life responsibly,” he added.

Ahead of WTO’s Ministerial Conference, OkonjoIweala Charges Members to Find Common Ground The Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has urged members of the global trade body to find common ground in order to achieve concrete outcomes at the forthcoming 13th Ministerial

Conference (MC13) that holds in Abu Dhabi next February.

Speaking at a formal meeting of the WTO’s General Council, yesterday, Okonjo-Iweala said: “Our work is cut out for us” on achieving concrete MC13 outcomes.”

Bill to Quash Endless Occupation of Public Office in Acting Capacity Passes Second Reading

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

cal losses from 44 per cent to an impressive 17.8 per cent.

According to him, this showcased the company’s collective efforts in operational efficiency and sustainable energy practices.

“Our commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in our initiative to adopt automated payment channels, making transactions smoother and more efficient for our valued customers. We are not just providing a service; we are creating experiences that resonate with our customers.

“Recognising the importance of transparency and accountability, we successfully metered over 830,292 customers, giving them control over

a person either to an office or to exercise any function, whether for a specified period or not, that power to so appoint includes the power to appoint that person by name, the power to remove or suspend him and the power to reappoint or reinstate him as well as the power to appoint a person in acting capacity.

"A closer look at paragraph (c) of subsection (1) of section 11 shows that the powers exercisable thereof are subject to limitations and conditions which may be provided by various other enactments and this power includes the power to reappoint or reinstate a previously suspended appointee."

The lawmaker said whereas various enactments provide for clear limitations and conditions upon which an appointee may be reappointed or such limitations and conditions upon which a suspended appointee may be reinstated, there are no limitations and conditions provided for the appointment of

persons in acting capacity.

Ugochinyere said: "More disheartening is that such appointments were held by such unqualified persons for a very long period of time. Such persons held such offices for a very long period of time because there is no limitation provided by law regarding the duration for which such offices could be held in acting capacity.

"The very essence of this Bill is to provide for limitations and conditions for appointment of a person into any office in acting capacity. The Bill aims at providing such a condition that for a person to be appointed into an office in acting capacity, that person ordinarily should be qualified to hold such office in substantive capacity."

When put to a voice vote by the Speaker, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who presided over the session, it got the support of majority of the lawmakers and was passed and referred to the committee on judiciary for further legislative action.

In her capacity as Chair of the Trade Negotiations Committee, Okonjo-Iweala welcomed the results from the Group of 7 trade ministers meeting in Osaka, Japan, on 29 October, which also included the participation of a number of developing country trade ministers.

The Osaka meeting followed a Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) at the WTO’s headquarters last month, that focused on preparations for MC13.

The G7 trade ministers, "were pleased about the results and it was heartening to hear ministers strongly reiterate the calls we had just heard at the SOM for us to work for concrete outcomes and a successful MC13," she said.

"All of them were desirous to have a successful MC13 but they acknowledged that, on some of the dossiers we have in front of us, differences still remain and have to be resolved," a statement quoted her to have added.

"So, we have our work cut out for us. With about four months to MC13, every day must count to effectively utilise the political guidance and support we sought and got from senior officials and ministers to substantially advance our work towards concrete results at MC13," she added.

The current global outlook is "dire at the moment," the DirectorGeneral said.

"People are looking to multilateral organisations to act differently, to deliver differently, to show the

world that they're still bastions where multilateral cooperation can deliver for people."

Reporting on the ongoing discussions among members related to WTO reform, Ambassador Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme of Botswana, the General Council Chair, noted that work on the issue continues, with "reform-by-doing" work advancing in the various WTO bodies.

On the latter, the General Council Chair said participants in the Senior Officials Meeting on 23-24 October were pleased to note that a "significant and credible" reformby-doing package was emerging which should be acknowledged and blessed by ministers at MC13.

"Colleagues, WTO reform evidently remains a top priority among the WTO membership – a message reinforced by senior officials last week," the Chair said.

"This is reflected in ongoing work on many fronts – from dispute settlement reform, development discussions and institutional reforms to reform-by-doing efforts in WTO bodies."

"We have also heard from senior officials and from permanent representatives a growing call to ensure that MC13 is a reform Ministerial," she added.

In this regard, delegations have made suggestions for laying a solid foundation for continued work in Geneva and to structure MC13 in a way that allows ministers to take decisions on WTO reform, she said.

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Stock Market Hits Historic Record, Crosses 70,000bpts Mark

Kayode Tokede

The stock market arm of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) attained a new high yesterday, as the NGX All-Share Index historically increased to a all-time high and shattered the 70,000basis points psychological mark.

Specifically, the NGX All Share Index (ASI) gained 1,345.57 basis points or 1.94 per cent to close at 70,581.76 basis points on the first trading day in November, 2023, from the 69,236.19 basis points it opened for trading Thus, the Year-to-Date (YtD) return advanced to +37.7 per cent.

Also, market capitalisation appreciated by N739 billion to close at N38.778 trillion yesterday, from the N38.039 trillion it opened for trading.

The stock market has been on an

upward trajectory since the entry of the new administration led by President Bola Tinubu, due to reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidy and the liberalisation of the foreign exchange market.

Data from NGX showed that while foreign investor participation in the capital market was slowly rising, domestic investor sentiment has been highly positive, with increased allocation into equities.

Already, total transactions in the equity market hit N2.71 trillion as of September end, 38per cent higher than the corresponding period in 2022.

While investor sentiment suggests that the Nigerian stock market's recent peak was not a mere flash in the pan, experts stressed the importance of ongoing stability, security, and continued economic reforms. The historic high of the

Nigerian stock market has created ripples in the global financial arena, with investors keenly observing the nation's economic trajectory.

Although it does not guarantee prosperity, it does signify global recognition of Nigeria's vast potential.

The hope was that this extraordinary accomplishment would lead to improved living standards for Nigerians and bolster economic stability for the nation.

However, the record achieved yesterday was impacted by gains recorded in medium and large capitalised stocks, amongst which were: Airtel Africa, Presco, FBN Holdings (FBNH), Zenith Bank and Cadbury Nigeria.

Market breadth closed positive as 37 stocks gained relative to 16 decliners. Airtel Africa recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent to close at N1,694.10, while University

Press and Chams Holding Company followed with a gain of 9.91 per cent each to close at N2.33 and N2.44 respectively, per share.

NEM Insurance rose by 9.90 per cent to close at N5.55, while FBNH appreciated by 9.78 per cent to close at N19.65, per share. On the other hand, Caverton Offshore Support Group led the losers’ chart by 7.74 per cent to close at N1.43, per share.

Champion Breweries followed with a decline of 6.85 per cent to close at N3.40, while C & I Leasing lost 6.41 per cent to close at N3.36, per share.

UPDC Real Estate Investment Trust depreciated by 2.70 per cent to close at N3.60, while Unilever Nigeria declined by 2.44 per cent to close at N14.00, per share.

The total volume traded increased by 24.51 per cent to 601.733 million units, valued at N11.016 billion, and exchanged in 7,444 deals. Transac-

tions in the shares of United Bank for Africa (UBA) topped the activity chart with 163.562 million shares valued at N3.473 billion. FBNH followed with 94.655 million shares worth N1.841 billion, while Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) traded 45.752 million shares valued at N1.601 billion.

Access Holdings Consolidated traded 36.694 million shares valued at N641.992 million, while Universal Insurance sold 34.716 million shares worth N8.938 million.

Commenting on the performance of the stock market, analysts at InvestmentOne Research stated, “The local equities market closed northwards today due to the impressive performance seen in Airtel Africa and the Banking sector.

“Going forward, we expect investor’s sentiments to be swayed by the search for real positive returns

open for business.”

Tinubu stressed the need for all public servants to work for the interest of the millions of Nigerians who elected the government. He said ending corruption and pulling at least 50 million Nigerians out of poverty were key goals of his administration.

The president explained, “We are going through the reform, painfully, and we still have other challenges. Don't be a clog in the wheel of Nigeria’s progress. Let us look forward. Let us be determined that corruption will go, progress will be achieved, better wages for our workers, and living wages.

“We will transform the economy to work for millions of our citizens.

We must take 50 million people out of poverty. We must build healthcare that works for all. Look around.

“Don't be wicked. Look at the standard of education, look at the classrooms, and look at the roads. We can only spend the money, we will find it, we cannot spend the people.

"No crime in borrowing. Thank you World Bank for being a lending friend, but let your achievement be home-grown. The determination that Nigeria can do it is here.”

The president told Nigerians, “Don't be selfish about it. Poverty is not a shameful thing, it's only unacceptable and we have to banish it because it's unacceptable.”

The president emphasised the need for unity among Nigerians, and assured that he was a president of all, regardless of religious, ethnic, political or other affiliations.

He charged participants at the retreat to work towards a great Nigeria, reassuring them that a great Nigeria is possible and a greater Nigeria will come with their commitment, guidance and resolution to give the nation direction.

Tinubu stressed that rebuilding Nigeria was a collective responsibility and called on members of the Federal Executive Council to join hands with him to renew the foundations of the country and return hope to those who had lost it.

He said, "It is our country, we have to build it; we have to renew the foundation. We have to give hope to the near-hopeless. With strong determination, we have brought together the best brains, and the best hands to navigate the future of Nigeria. We cannot complain and give excuses.”

The president stressed that no one succeeded alone. He assured the top government functionaries of his support in the discharge of their duties, and reiterated the need for the participants to be determined and collaborate towards the achievement of the eight-point agenda of his administration.

According to Tinubu, "A great Nigeria is possible and a greater Nigeria will come under our commitment, guidance and resolute determination to give the country a direction. I am with you and, please, be assured that this great country is one family in one house geographically located partitioned and living in different rooms but we are one family.

“And we are here to make allegiance and give direction to that one family, making sure that relationship can only be stronger if we give hope to our people and can only achieve our vision with boldness and strong determination with collaboration.”

He charged civil servants to positively contribute to the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda, cautioning that they must not see political appointees as opportunists.

He stated, "I am here to assure

Oscar Onyema and developments in the interest rate space.

“We reiterate that this may be a great period to pick up some quality names with a medium to long-term investment horizon.”

W e Must S ucceed By All Mean s, T i n u b u D ec l a r e s opening of a three-day retreat organised for ministers, presidential aides, permanent secretaries, and top government officials at State House, Abuja. The theme of the retreat was, “Delivering on the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

Equally, yesterday, Tinubu urged the National Assembly to approve his request to access $7.8 billion and €100 million external loans as contained in the 2022 – 2024 borrowing plan of the federal government. The request was contained in a letter he sent to both chambers of the National Assembly, which was read at plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

In a related development, the United Kingdom, yesterday, observed that Nigeria was fast becoming a regional and global powerhouse with

the various reforms and multi-sector reorganisations initiated by the Tinubu government since he assumed office in May. British High Commissioner in Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, made the observation in a goodwill message at the presidential retreat.

Speaking at the retreat, Tinubu charged his ministers, advisers, aides, and other government officials to help in the realisation of the administration’s goals. He declared that he would spare no effort in achieving his bid to redeem Nigeria from its current state.

The president reminded participants at the event that everything needed to lift the country from its current condition was within the government's disposal. And he vowed to deploy as much resources

Court Restrains Rivers Assembly from Impeaching Fubara as the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, warned those orchestrating propaganda and innuendoes against him to desist, saying he would not be intimidated.

He also declared that the move to impeach Fubara was not a military coup, saying the country’s constitution recognises impeachment of political actors.

THISDAY had reported that moves by 24 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to impeach the State Governor resulted in turbulence in the State on Monday, as the governor’s loyalists stormed the assembly complex in protest against the plot.

The matter in the court, which was registered in suit number IHC/230/ CS/2023, was instituted by Damian Okoro (a Senior Advocate of Nigeria) on behalf of the governor.

Defendants in the suit included the Rivers State House of Assembly, Speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly Deputy Speaker, Clark of RSHA and Chief Judge of the state, Justice Simeon Chibuzor-Amadi.

Presiding Judge, Justice Ben Whyte had issued the order following the suit filed against the defendants and directed that the parties should maintain status quo pending the determination of the Motion on Notice and thereafter adjourned to November 14, 2023, for motion on notice.

Parts of the order states: "An order of interim injunction restraining the defendants and their agents, privies, proxies and representatives from initiating, continuing or proceeding with the process of removal of the claimant from office as the Governor of Rivers State or howsoever interfering with and/or preventing the claimant from carrying out the duties and functions of his office as the Governor of Rivers State pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice already filed in this suit.

"Upon this Motion Exparte coming up before this Honourable Court for hearing and determination and after reading the Supporting Affidavit of Siminalayí Fubara filed on the 31 day of October, 2023 at the High Court Registry, Isiokpo and having listened to the submission of D. O. Okoro, with I. Mac-Barango of Counsel for the Claimant/Applicant. It is hereby ordered as follows: "That the parties in this case

maintain the status quo in this case by not doing anything in furtherance of the purported impeachment of the Applicant as the Governor of Rivers State pending the determination of the Motion on Notice.

"This case is adjourned to the November 14, 2023 for argument of the Motion on Notice".

Meanwhile, a Magistrate court sitting in Port Harcourt has granted bail to state Chairman of National Youth Council of Nigeria, Chijioke Ihunwo, Legal adviser to the council, Chidozie Emem and other 119 defendants who were standing trial on a five count charges.

The defendants who were arrested by the operatives of the State Police Command over protest to resist the impeachment of Fubara, are standing trial before a trial Magistrate, Gift Amadi.

They were charged for conspiracy, causing riot, damaging the house gate of the Speaker, RSHA, unlawful assembly and causing breach of public peace.

After an argument by parties in the matter, they were granted bail of N100,000 each, and to produce 20 sureties for all of them.

Earlier, one of the prosecuting lawyer, Eniyepere Sikpi, demanded that the defendants provide verifiable addresses as part of their bail condition. But the presiding Magistrate, Amadi said the defendants were granted bail on the ground that the offences are bailable.

The case was adjourned till December 5, 2023 for hearing.

Wike Warns Detractors, Says He Can’t Be Intimidated

Wike, yesterday, declared that the subtle move to impeach Fubara was not a military coup, saying the country’s constitution recognises impeachment of political actors.

He gave the warning yesterday, when a delegation of the PDP Governors’ Forum, led by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, and accompanied by the Governors of Adamawa, Taraba and Plateau States, Ahmadu Fintiri, Agbu Kefas, and Caleb Muftwang, paid him a visit in his office in Abuja.

He said he was unruffled by the ongoing political shenenigans Continued on page 43

as were necessary to achieve this.

Tinubu told the gathering of cabinet members and friends of Nigeria, "It's our country, we have no other one, let's be proud that we're Nigerians and we can do it, you can show leadership. We can fight to make democracy a lasting reference for the rest of Africa.

"Don't be afraid to take decisions, but don't be antagonistic of your supervisor. If they are wrong, debate it. I stand before you and I have claimed several occasions and I'm saying today again, as the president I can make mistakes, point it to me, I will resolve that conflict, that error. Perfection is only that of God Almighty.

"But you are there to help me succeed. Success, I must achieve, by all means necessary. We have great minds, great intellect and all that we need."

The president also said he would not complain about the enormous task of piloting the country through economic and social recovery. He said he had accepted to inherit all the assets and liabilities of his predecessors.

According to him, "I accept the assets and liabilities of my predecessor, it is part of my professional background. You are in this ship, don’t wreck it. See the minister as part of a team that will navigate and take it out of troubled waters.”

The president mentioned the priority areas of his administration.

He stated, "Healthcare is priority, education is a must. No other weapon against poverty than education. You have the opportunity to change things.”

He alluded to some issues the German chancellor had complained about, saying, “Those obstacles are gone, never to come back, we are

you that I will work with you, the best brains we can put together in civil service, the best brains that we can put together in our democratic parliament and have been chosen for us by the public.

“Don't see the minister as an opportunist but a partner that you must take this ship forward.

Navigate it through turbulent and clear weather. But you are in this ship, you will make good of it but not wreck it.

“We are lucky we have a nation.

The challenges are all over the world, you can see the chaos all around you, but be focused and be committed to the values and principles of results that will affect you, your neighbour and the entire nation.”

Tinubu said all participants at the three-day retreat would among other things, sign the Ministerial Performance Bond, which would be periodically reviewed.

He announced the establishment of the “Result Delivery Unit (RDU)”, to be headed by his Special Adviser on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala-Usman, to measure the performance of ministers and other top government officials serving in his administration.

The president said all ministers, aides, as well as other top government officials serving in the present administration would sign a bond of understanding with him to enable the government measure their performance with key indicators and reference to objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The president assured the ministers that he would grant them a significant level of autonomy, provided that they demonstrate intellectual curiosity by asking questions about the Continued on page 42

NLC, TUC, Police Trade Words over Alleged Abduction, Brutalisation of Ajaero in Imo A statement signed by NLC's Head of Information and Publicity, Benson Upah, said, "Contact was made with Congress President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, this evening around 15.30 hours at the Police Hospital in Owerri from where he was taken to Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, where he is receiving medical attention.

"Thoroughly brutalised, his right eye at the time of contact was completely shut."

Quoting Ajaero from the hospital bed in Owerri, Upah said he narrated how he was bundled out and blind-folded to an unknown place before being beaten up with objects, including bottles.

Upah said, "Ajaero, who said little, stated that immediately after his arrest, he was beaten up and blind-folded and taken to an unknown destination where more brutalisation took place, sometimes with bottles.

"His phones, money and other personal effects were taken off him and have not been returned to him."

But, in its reaction, the Imo State Police Command denied arresting Ajaero. The police explained that the NLC president was initially taken into protective custody at the State Command Headquarters to save him from lynching and he was subsequently given treatment for his injuries at the Police Medical

Services, Owerri.

Imo State Government denied involvement in the arrest of the NLC president. The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba, in a statement yesterday, noted that those accusing the government were perennial mischief makers always crying wolf where there was none.

Emelumba recalled that the purported strike action in the state had been stopped by the National Industrial Court in Owerri, which makes the planned action illegal.

He also noted that in compliance with the court order, the Imo State chapter of NLC had announced that it was pulling out of the strike. He wondered what Ajaero was doing in Owerri in defiance of the order of the court, which warned of severe consequences against disobedience.

Ajaero was arrested during a protest rally led by the national leadership of the labour movement against alleged maltreatment of workers in the state.

As early as 8am Wednesday morning, workers started gathering at the state secretariat of NLC for the protest. But, suddenly, some men with harmful weapons stormed the secretariat and attacked the workers and chased them away.

However, the workers reassembled at the secretariat, but this time led by the NLC president and General

Secretary, Emma Ugboaja, to commence the protest.

Just as Ajaero was about addressing the gathering, a team of armed policemen came and arrested him along with some officials of NLC and took them away.

There were several gunshots apparently fired to disperse the workers.

Many workers were arrested, including the crew of the TVC covering the protest, and some workers sustained injuries during the fracas.

Among the grievances of the workers was that the state owed workers and pensioners over 42 months’ salary arrears; declaration of thousands of workers and pensioners as ghost workers; and not properly implementing the national minimum wage.

The workers also accused the state government of trying to use the courts to stifle a lawful protest, and attempting to break the ranks of the unions in the state.

The organised labour maintained that Ajaero was abducted by Governor Hope Uzodimma and the Imo State Commissioner of Police.

In a statement jointly signed

by General Secretary of NLC, Ugboaja, and his TUC counterpart, Mr. Nuhu Toro, the two labour centres threatened to mobilise the State Councils and the branches

for immediate nationwide action if Ajaero was not released.

They alleged that Ajaero was arrested by the police, accompanied by thugs led by Special Assistant to the Governor of Imo State on Special Duties, Mr. Chinasa Nwaneri, and others, like Tapey and Madoka.

The statement said about the manhandling of Ajaero, "They inflicted heavy injuries and blows to his head and body and kicking him in the process, while dragging him on the ground, while the police supervised the mayhem.

“They eventually bundled the president into their waiting van and whisked him away to unknown destination, where he is still being held incommunicado as we write."

The statement further accused the Imo State government of violence and intimidation, saying, “The Government of Imo state has continued to use the instrument of violence and intimidation against trade unions and their leadership in the state. Just as Nigerian workers gathered earlier this morning, led by the leadership of the two labour centres, to demonstrate our outrage over the serial and habitual abuse and violation of the rights of workers in the state, the government unleashed blood cuddling mayhem on the workers.

Continued on page 42

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politics

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

Oyebanji: We’ve Succeeded in Changing Focus of Governance in Ekiti

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti state in this interview with Gbenga Sodeinde speaks on his achievements within one year in office and what people of the state should expect from his development plan in the next three years.

O

ne year is gone since you were sworn in as Governor of Ekiti, How far so far?

As a government, we have a contract with the people of Ekiti state and we promised ourselves that we will work for them and work with them.

We made certain promises to them and for the past few months, we have ensured that those promises are kept. Even if those promises come at a cost, it requires self-discipline, a lot of concentration, a lot of consultation and a lot of what I will call a stable and compassionate policy from the government.

It also requires a lot of tactics and strategies and we have tried as much as possible to ensure that we are truthful to Ekiti people.

We believe that trust is very key to governance. So, the first mark I set for myself is that I need to earn the trust of Ekiti People because if you are going to take them on a journey of four years, they must trust me to the point that they will follow me to that expected end and we have tried to do that.

So, if this is the feedback, well, I give God all the glory but I also know that it is too early in the day for us to rest on our oars.

So, the reward for hard work is more work.

With respect to buying the opposition, it is not correct. What we have done is to ensure that we are running an inclusive government and we are communicating with everybody including the opposition. Election stopped the day I was sworn in as governor of Ekiti

Oyebanji State. I don’t see myself as governor of APC, I am the Governor of everybody in Ekiti State.

In concrete terms, what are the major achievements of your administration since you assumed office one year ago?

One of the major objectives of this administration is employment generation and wealth creation and without doubt, the major driver of employment and wealth is the private sector investment, especially direct investment in agriculture and indus-

trial sector.

As a State, we are very aggressive in our efforts to mobilize both foreign and domestic investors to our State. I am happy to report that Ekiti is one of five States that has consistently attracted foreign direct investment in the last five years.

Ekiti State has been audacious in its aspirations, and we are pleased to announce that our efforts have not gone unnoticed.

We were recently ranked favourably in the ease of doing business by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PBEC) in its 2023 Sub-national Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) report.

This recognition reaffirms that Ekiti is on a steady path to continued growth and development.

To underscore the importance of investment promotion to our government, I have constituted the Board of the Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency, under my chairmanship. In addition, I also chair the State Ease of Doing Business Council.

My involvement in leading these two critical organs shows the importance we place on investment promotion, and continuous improvement in the business environment. Our Government is doing everything to improve service delivery to our people.

As a result, extensive expansion work has been done on the main building of the extension to the Governor’s Office.

Through a creative architectural ingenuity,

the building has been remodeled, expanded and comprehensively rehabilitated as offices for top government officials. Similarly, the Data Centre has been upgraded to meet up with the new challenges. Also, Jibowu Hall has been given a facelift befitting of Ekiti State. The Office of Transformation, Strategy and Service Delivery has been retooled and recalibrated to ensure prompt service delivery by MDAs. The old Civil Service Commission building has been rehabilitated and handed over to the judiciary to host the Ekiti State Customary Court of Appeal which was recently approved by the National Judicial Council. I am glad to report that Ekiti now has a Customary Court of Appeal to serve the need of our people especially at the grassroots and we have also procured vehicles for our Judges, in fulfillment of our promise to prioritize the welfare of judicial officers.

We have also undertaken critical recruitment of workers to fill some consequential vacancies in critical professional cadres in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security; we have approved the creation of career cadre for the graduate of Banking and Finance so as to have their own career path for career progression and fulfillment, and also appointed qualified accountants to various Finance functions.

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

Takeaways from ‘Quick Wins’ to Revitalize Nation’s Economy Temitope Ajayi writes about the onerous task before the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms headed by Taiwo Oyedele which last week submitted its initial report to President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.

T

he Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms led by Taiwo Oyedele last Tuesday had audience with President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.

The import of the visit was a presentation to the President on current status of the committee’s assignment since its inauguration on August 8, 2023.

The committee tagged its presentation ‘Quick Wins’ and sought the President’s nod on immediate implementation of some of its key recommendations.

After listening attentively to the presentation, President Tinubu noted that charting a critical and enduring path to the country’s economic recovery had become more compelling, stressing that his administration is strongly committed to removing all the inhibitions that slow down growth and development. The President directed his Special Adviser on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala-Usman, who was also present at the presentation, to coordinate with relevant ministries and agencies of government for immediate implementation of the ‘Quick Wins.’

In his remarks, FIRS Chief Executive, Zack Adedeji underscored the importance of progressive fiscal policy and business-friendly tax system, promising that his agency would explore all available opportunities to significantly improve and diversify the nation’s revenue profile away from oil revenue which has remained the mainstay of the economy in the last 50 years. Tax reforms, Adedeji pointed out, are an integral part of a robust fiscal policy.

“Nigeria’s fiscal policy serves as the foundation of economic stability. It dictates how the government collects, manages and allocates resources for the betterment of our people. A well-developed fiscal policy is crucial for the provision of infrastructure, healthcare, education and social services to our growing population,” FIRS boss reiterated.

from levies tied to fuel products to fund suspended multiple taxes.

Removal of impediments to global employment opportunities.

Outlaw sales of forex outside the official market Changes to promote export in services and intangibles.

Remove restriction on repatriation of export proceed to purchase raw materials

Tinubu

Oyedele Harping on how to accelerate growth and retool the economy, Chairman of the Presidential Committee, Oyedele explained that the most sustainable way for any country to generate revenue is to grow the economy.

According to him, when businesses thrive and succeed in a country, and individuals prosper, they pay taxes to government which will be used to fund social and development needs of the people.

“We are looking at how we can remove the impediments to businesses and to trade. When we remove these impediments, people can then gain employment. We have over 60 taxes and levies, officially collectible by Federal, state and local governments.

Unofficially, the taxes are over 200, making life difficult for our people.

The taxes at all levels of government combined, we think, should be less

than 10,” he declared.

While the Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee has designed implementation instruments for the activation of their recommendations, below are key takeaways from the Quick Wins: Presidential Executive Orders that will address: Duplication of functions in the public service and ensure prudent public financial management.

Imposition of excise tax on foreign exchange transactions outside the official market Impediments to export promotion and bottlenecks regarding Exports Expansion Grants to be addressed.

Emergency Economic Intervention Bill on: Increase in personal income tax exempt threshold and personal relief allowance Tax break for private sector in respect of wage increases to low-income earners, transport subsidy and net increase in employment Amendments to redirect certain revenues accruing to some MDAs and windfall revenue

Ministerial Directive and Order on: Suspension of VAT on diesel and tax waivers on CNG, CNG conversion and renewable energy items.

Comprehensive review of tariffs on the 43 items and import policy on other items prohibited for imports.

Reforms of withholding tax regulations to ensure simplicity and ease pressure on working capital for businesses.

Memorandum of Understanding with states on: Spending framework for subsidy removal and forex reform windfall including national portal to track utilization.

Suspension of multiple taxes which places burden on the poor and small businesses.

FIRS Circulars to: Modify Tax ProMax to allow taxpayers make part payments of outstanding tax liabilities.

Grant waiver on penalty and interests on the condition of full payment on or before December 31, 2023.

-Ajayi is Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Media & Publicity NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

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FEatures

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

Insecurity: Declare National Emergency on Land Borders, Says Former NIS Boss

Udeh Chukwurah Joseph is a retired Comptroller-General of Immigration who led the Nigeria Immigration Service from 20052010. The outspoken retired CGI, who ran an ICT-driven service, stated that his only regret is the non-implementation of the Federal Executive Council’s approval of the construction of Auto-Gate Entry Plazas at the nation' borders amongst other sundry issues. He also charged the government to declare national emergency on the land borders. He spoke with Kuni Tyessi recently Oluwole black market in Lagos. In order to deal with the problems, we needed guts and decisiveness. With the backing of my Minister, President Olusegun Obasanjo and collaboration with other Security agencies, we were able to dismantle that fake passport cartel.

Many have expected you to join active politics, what has kept you away? ow, you know that we all cannot be in active politics. We are all politicians in our different little enclaves. I actually admire those who play the real game of politics. I do not think I am cut out for it. It is like asking why I am not a footballer. It is simple, I know very little how to play football and admire the game and the players. Politics requires so much money in our environment; I do not have a deep pocket. Not being in politics does not mean one cannot serve his people or the country in other capacities. However, I am ready always to make my contribution towards community/National development.

W

How has life been after retirement?

It has been quite interesting; I feel fulfilled and exceedingly contented that in my chosen career at the highest level, I had the privilege and the opportunity to serve the country and contribute to the development of a modern ICT service driven Immigration Service. Looking back every day, I give thanks to God for granting me the grace, strength and courage for the positive and meaningful contributions I made to the Service in particular and our country in general. To say the least as God permits, I have the liberty to use my time as it pleases me.

What can you say are some of the legacies you left behind as CGI? Joseph Udeh leadership lead to a revolution at NIS. During the interview session by the Presidential Committee set-up at the time to scout for a CGI to replace our boss, late Lady (Mrs.) Uzoamaka Nwizu and restructure the NIS, I told the panel of interviewers that I would run an ICT driven Immigration service. I believe that statement was impactful and played a role in my appointment. So, when I was appointed, I did what I said I would do. I did not have the luxury of a hand over note; however, the recommendations of the Presidential Committee on the restructuring of the NIS were the document that guided me in most of the decisions I took.

I started by getting all the staff nominal roll and salary dockets in the Immigration Commands in the states to the Headquarters in Abuja. We were plagued with differences and disparities in salaries of officers and men of the same rank but serving in different locations. That was a serious anomaly. Instinctively I asked my officers to scout around cyber cafés in town to get young computer literate people to work for us.

About 30 young men and women were assembled. We assigned them to upload all the Salary dockets and the nominal roll of officers both in the Headquarters and State Command offices and convert all the salary documents from hard copies to electronic soft copies, which we domiciled in the headquarters. That done, salary payment became centralized. Officers and men now knew what their salary was.

The centralisation also brought about a good deal of savings as leakages were blocked. We knew exactly what our staff strength was and what money was required for payment of salaries.

The savings made from the exercise was used in settling a large amount of outstanding staff allowances, which most officers even never knew they were entitled to. For the first time we got an electronic copy of staff nominal roll.

We could now boast of harmonised staff salary irrespective of location.

This exercise without fear of contradiction was the beginning of our digitalisation story in the NIS. Still basking in the success of our digital salary payment adventure, we pursued the Nigeria Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Federal government agency in charge of allocating IP addresses to government agencies and was allocated the address www. immigration.gov.ng. The website, launched in 2005, connected the Nigeria Immigration Service to the world.

What about your contributions towards human capacity?

On human capacity development, the job had to be done by our officers. So training and retraining of our staff became our hallmark. We acquired and sent more computer desktops to our training schools and made it mandatory

Joseph, former CGI for officers of the Service to be computer literate. We needed to urgently move with time, change our attitude to work and our manual ways of doing our job to digital service delivery. We sent our officers to NIPPS, National War College Jaji, Defence Intelligence Agency, the DSS and ASCON for training.

We also sent our border patrol operatives to the Police training school in Gwoza, Borno state, for paramilitary assignments and training on weapon handling and the use of fire- arms. Apart from the knowledge acquired from these training, interaction with other security agencies boosted the morale of staff and fostered inter agency relationships.

The deployment policy where officers were not allowed to spend more than four years in a location was re-activated. We carried out a major nation-wide transfer exercise that was nicknamed a -tsunami.

I felt that every officer needed to have a new experience of the job and to bring about integration between and amongst the officers in the North and those in the South. A good number of officers had never moved from their preferred posts. Some had overstayed their usefulness to the NIS in their duty posts and had become bottlenecks as they resisted transfer. Some had even won the toga of untouchables. We developed a forensic laboratory equipped with Video Spectral Comparator for the detection of forged passports, visas and other travel documents under my watch.

We established relationship and connectivity with the INTERPOL 24/7 data- base in Lyon, France. This gave us access to classified information on forged and stolen passports, and identity theft. During my administration, Govt. granted approval for Immigration officers to return to Nigerian Embassies and High commissions abroad to handle passport administration and other immigration related matters. We introduced passport intervention programmes for the issuing passports in locations out-side Embassies or High Commissions.

On my appointment as CGI, I was given a time line to migrate from the MachineReadable Passport (MRP) to the e-passport.

The problems associated with the MRP created entrenched corruption and lawlessness, double acquisition of passports by Nigerians, outright stealing of blank passport booklets, Identity theft, to passports been sold in the thriving

You alluded that E-passport was Olusegun Obasanjo's idea when he was president and not that of his predecessor as many believe. Can you clear the misconception?

Unknown to most Nigerians, the e-passport was President Olusegun Obasanjo’s idea. On a visit to Malaysia, he found out that Malaysian Immigration had same challenging menace of nonMalaysians having accessing to Malaysian international passports. He noted that they surmounted their problem with the deployment and use of passports embedded with electronic chips that could read the biometric details of the passport owner using special equipment.

On his return, he directed the NIS management to visit Malaysia and get more information on the new technology.

It is worthy of note that a Malaysian company Iris Smart Conrad Company of Malaysia developed and deployed the use of e-passports globally. Since that company had Nigerian Partners, it was only wise for the NIS to engage their Nigerian Partners for our e-passport project.

Having cleared the way for the production and roll out of the e-passports, the next challenge was how to collect revenue and remit to Govt. Payment for passport then was by bank drafts, which was subject to abuse. In all honesty, I had heard of e-payment but did not know how it worked. I approached and discussed with the then chief Economic adviser to the President Obasanjo, Professor Ojowu who advised me to discuss the issue with the National Planning Commission. We held series of meetings with them as advised and they introduced Socket Works Ltd to us.

We worked tirelessly with the company and came up with electronic method of collecting revenue from the sale of e-passport booklets and other sundry Immigration services, and remit accruing revenue directly to government. I was particularly lucky in that my Minister then, Dr Iyorchia Ayu was supportive of our efforts. He believed in the novel ideas I brought to change our manual ways of doing things. The Minister took our Memos to the Federal Executive Council and secured approval for us to commence e-Immigration which encompassed e-payment collection.

The e-payment system enabled us to generate unprecedented amount of money totaling about two million ($2m) in the first six months of the e-passport roll out from only four foreign Missions and eight billion N8billion from six states of the federation used in the Pilot scheme.

The beauty of the on-line payment system was that revenue collected was secure, and collection could be viewed online, real time.

The system also made e-passport administration much easier, for both applicants and the Immigration staff.

Passport applicants applied from the

Government cannot continue to allow unchecked entry into Nigeria. Government must take urgent steps by providing needed infrastructure to check the free entry of people into our country. Existing laws and the ECOWAS protocols on free movement of persons, Right of Residence and Establishment within the sub-region must be strictly enforced

comfort of their space thereby reducing corruption and possible chances of manipulation of applicants by the Immigration personnel. We introduced a new electronic border management system, the e-PARS used for the automatic clearance of passengers using computers and ICT tools.

The system automatically stored information of arriving and departing international passengers. The e-PARS system has metamorphosed to MIDAS, but the functions are the same. It was the e-PARS in use during my tenure that enabled the Immigration Service retrieve the information on the travel history of the terrorist underwear bomber, Umar Farouk Abdulmuttalab.

The achievement was not a mean feat for the Service and country at that time, as the newly installed e-PARS made it possible for Immigration to retrieve the travel history of the terrorist.

Another outstanding benefit of the e-PARS was the approval granted by ICAO, allowing American and European commercial flights to come into Nigerian Airports. Before the installation of e-PARS, ICAO had declared Nigeria International airports as unsafe because they did not meet global aviation security standards so the lifting of the ban was a huge success for Nigeria. There were some other innovations that I initiated and completed in the NIS that I may not be able to remember or cover in this interview.

It is believed that your successor, Muhammad Babandede introduced digital operations to the service, can you react to this?

I believe that, I have given you an accurate background of our transition to the digitalisation of the NIS, and my contribution to the Service and Country. I believe that the information I have given you are verifiable and well documented.

Everything I have said were done, during the regime of President Olusegun Obasanjo and President Umaru Musa Ya’radua. So, it pre- dates Babandede CGI (rtd). Therefore, it is expected that Babandede may have improved on some of what we did, and may have contributed some new ideas.

Do not forget that, there have been about four CGIs after me, before Babandede was appointed.

I may not be able to say for sure who did what after me. I completed the administrative block and added some structures for a positive development and growth of the Service. We moved our headquarters located at the Federal Secretariat in Area One Garki, Abuja to the Immigration Village in Sauka, along the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Road, Abuja. We built a good number of State Command offices during our tenure.

I am happy to let you know that a major building called Joseph Udeh Glass House in the Immigration Village is named after me. I also learnt that the number one uniform worn by the officers and men is called Udeh. I had long left the Service when this honor was bestowed on me. This is a huge honor and I am eternally grateful to God Almighty that those who came after me acknowledged my contribution to the development of NIS and I will never take it for granted.

Given the opportunity to advice the current head of the agency on ways to better it, what will it be?

I will advise them to revisit the Federal Executive Council approval on the construction of the Entry plazas, and installation of integrated electronic control systems in our ports of entry into the country in order to address the issue of our porous borders. I will remind them that border control and security is the statutory duty of NIS. I will also tell them to look seriously into training and retraining.

The effective utilisation and deployment of border patrol officers and men. Passenger interviewing procedure/format need to be standardised. Immigration officers are the first contact between the country and foreign visitors. If we must open up our country to the international community for any meaningful development, our Immigration officers must be courteous and top-notch.

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

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T H I S D AY • Thursday, November 2, 2023

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

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REPO

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

08056356325

N o v e m b er

S & P INDEX

1 , 2 0 2 3

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

11.25%

CALL

19.12%

INDEX LEVEL

611.31%

1/4 to daTE

-0.07%

N795.28/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

11.50%

1-MONTH

16.25%

1-DAY

0.03%

YEAR TO DATE

0.48%

*AS AT Monday, July 24, 2023

3-MONTH

15.75%

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-0.7%

Nigeria’s .ng Domain Name Maintains Steady Growth in Three Months, Increased to 203,904 in September

Emma Okonji The adoption rate of Nigeria’s .ng domain name maintained a steady growth in three consecutive months in July, August and September this year, latest statistics released by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) has revealed.

NiRAis the body responsible for managing Nigeria’s country code Top Level Domain (ccTLD).

According to the statistics, which THISDAY obtained from the official website of NiRA, the .ng domain name registration, renewal and restoration, reached 203,904 in September this year, up from the 198,294 and 201,442 figures that were

attained in July and August this year respectively, which resulted in a steady growth rate for three consecutive months, even though the margins were minimal.

THISDAY had earlier reported a steady growth in the country’s .ng domain name from 193,085 in May this year to 198,294 in July, despite the downtime in Nigeria’s economy in recent time.

A comprehensive data of the adoption rate of .ng domain name in the last one year, showed that in July 2022, the figure grew to 180,162 and from August to September same year, it increased to 181,275. From October to November 2022, the figure increased again to 183,169.

In December 2022, it increased again to 183,792 before it reached 184,425 in January 2023, and 189,158 in March 2023.

Again it increased from 189,158 in March to 193,085 in May this year, and rose again to 195,098 in June, before reaching 198,294 in July 2023.

According to the latest statistics, registration of .ng domain name alone reached 8,308 in July this year, and increased again to 8,676 in August, before sliding to 8,433 in September 2023. Renewal of .ng domain name alone was 5,403 in July this year, before sliding to 5,317 in August, with a further slide to 4,925 in September this year, while restoration of .ng domain name was

129 in July, but dropped to 109 in August before increasing to 125 in September 2023.

The ccTLD .ng domain name is Nigeria’s identity in cyberspace, which has the .ng at the suffix of every official email address that originates from Nigeria. In the United Kingdom, all official email addresses end with .co.uk, in United States of America, they end with .com, while in South Africa, the official email addresses end with .co.za.

In Nigeria, NiRA has carried out several campaigns to sensitise Nigerians on the need to populate .ng domain name.

Giving reasons for the continuous increase in the adoption rate of .ng

domain name across the county in the past one year, the President of NiRA, Mr. Adesola Akinsanya, told THISDAY that the strategic collaborations between NiRA and some government agencies, aimed at populating Nigeria’s .ng domain name, were largely responsible.

According to him, NiRA holds a pivotal role as the steward of Nigeria’s country code Top Level Domain (ccTLD), a crucial element in advancing the nation’s digital ecosystem. NiRA recognises the significance of collaborating with strategic partners who share in NiRA’s vision and can assist in achieving its vital objective.

Akinsanya said; “Some of these

significant partnerships include those with government entities and organisations that stand out.

These partnerships play a pivotal role in accelerating technological advancement for the growth of the nation’s economy. A recent highlight last month was the visit of the Honorable Commissioner of Innovation and Digital Economy for Sokoto State, Mr. Bashir Kwabo, and his team. The meeting emphasised NiRA’s crucial role in advancing Sokoto State’s digital landscape, and we express our gratitude for their support.”

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Technology Startups Urged to Invest in Emerging Technology to Boost Innovation, Disruption Emma Okonji Technology startups in the country have been urged to continually invest in emerging technologies that will drive innovation among Small, Medium and Enterprise Businesses (SMEs) and disrupt the old and existing systems across different sectors of the Nigerian economy.

Technology experts made the call at a recent panel session put together by Walure Capital in Lagos, in commemoration of its fourth year anniversary in the technology space.

The panelists include: National

President, Association of Senior Staff of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions (ASSBIFI), Mr. Olusoji Oluwole; Head, Product and Technology Innovation, ALAT, Wema Bank, Mr. Solomon Ayodele; CEO, AFEN Blockchain Group, Mrs. Deborah Ojengbede; and Telecoms/Logistics Expert, Mr. Omotunde Adetula.

General Manager, Walure Capital, Mr. Obafemi Okubanjo, in his welcome address, explained how Walure Capital, a technology resource company is supporting SMEs growth with technology solutions.

Okubanjo announced plans by the company to support 200 SMEs with N100,000 each, aimed at sustaining retail and small business owners in Nigeria. He said: “We were able to bring together, technology experts from different sectors of the Nigerian economy to share their experiences with tech startups that are building technology solutions across different sectors of the economy, in commemoration of our fourth anniversary.”

According to him, Walure Capital, which operates a technology hub, sees the knowledge

sharing as part of its contribution to the growth of the startups and Fintechs in Nigeria, having clocked four years in business as Walure Capital.

Managing Director at Walure Capital, Mr. Samuel Adeleye, who spoke on the importance of leveraging technology for business growth, advised SMES to adopt sustainable strategies and leverage emerging technologies for operational efficiency and business scalability.

The panel discussion focused on the theme: “Disruptive Technology Innovation- Impact of Social Media

on Society, Communication.”

Adetula stressed the need for tech startups to embrace emerging technologies like Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Realities (AR), to address specific challenges in the payment industry.

According to him, financial institutions should be able to use emerging technologies to solve new challenges in the financial sector. There are lots of challenges in the financial sector, especially as they relate to payments. Financial institutions should be able to identify the challenges and apply emerging technologies in solving the challenges.

“Financial institutions need to embrace critical thinking in order to apply the right technology solution that will address any identified challenge. Tech startups should also leverage on emerging technologies to address identified challenges across all sectors of the Nigerian economy, such as Health, Education, Agriculture, e-Commerce, among others. The ability to think deeply and apply technology engineering to address identified challenges, stands out any startups,” Adetula said.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

M a r k e t d ata A s at w e d n e s d ay, N o v e m b e r 1 , 2 0 2 3 BONDS Description Price Yield Change Updated Time (%) ^13.53 23November 98.19 14.98 46,00 1, 2023 MAR-2025 November ^12.50 2295.52 14.91 28,00 1, 2023 JAN-2026 ^16.2884 November 10.3.85 14.78 0.00 1, 17-MAR-27 2023 ^13.98 23November 97.09 14.90 0.00 FEB-2028 1, 2023 ^14.55 26November 97.62 15.20 0.00 APR-2029 1, 2023

BILLS

OTC F X F U T U R E S

CPS

Maturity

Discount Yield

NTB 9-Nov23 NTB 7-Dec23 NTB 25-Jan24 NTB 8-Feb24

6.85

6.86

Change (%) Updated Time November 0.00 1, 2023

Maturity

7.15

7.20

November -0.01 1, 2023

7.96

7.83

November 0.01 1, 2023

7.85

8.02

November 0.00 1, 2023

NSDL CP IIA 22-NOV-23 MTNN CP V 23-NOV-23 NSDL CP IIB 23-NOV-23 VAAG CP XVII 24-NOV-23

NTB 7-Mar24

11.20

11.65

November 3.00 1, 2023

VAAG CP XVII 24-NOV-23

Change Time Discount Yield (%) November 22.87 23.17 -1,00 1, 2023 November 14.84 14.98 0,00 1, 2023 November 22.87 23.19 0,00 1, 2023 November 20.23 20.49 0,00 1, 2023 19.53

19.85

November 0,00 1, 2023

Contract Current Tenor Contract Rate ($/₦) (Month) NGUS NOV 1 – 27 2024 NGUS DEC 2 – 24 2024 NGUS JAN 3 – 29 2025 NGUS FEB 4 – 26 2025 NGUS MAR 5 – 26 2025

Date

November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023

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Despite challenges, the National Pension Commission has made remarkable progress, writes GRACE A. ABAYOMI

Bola Tinubu has paid his dues in the country’s democratic struggles, writes SHEYI MONEY

PENSION REFORM: A VIEW FROM THE OUTSIDE

TINUBU AS DEMOCRACY ICON

In October 2020, former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Mrs Aisha Dahir-Umar as the Director General (DG) of the National Pension Commission (PenCom) after a lot of uncertainty on the status of the leadership of the Commission. Dahir-Umar and the Executive Management Team have now been in the saddle for three years and I think it is important to ask this question: how much ground have they covered in discharging their responsibilities to the Pension Industry? As it is well known about Nigeria, we are never short of reform policies. Since 1999, we have embarked on groundbreaking reforms in various aspects of the economy. The big issue all the time is how well these reforms are impacting the sectors. There is this dim view that reforms do not always succeed in Nigeria. Some reforms are

launched with fanfare and expectations but before the music dies down, they are gone with the wind for reasons that have to do with lack of continuity, dynamism and commitment. The pension reform has, however, bucked the trend.

I must necessarily start by admitting that PenCom is a government agency that has gone through leadership changes over the decades and still remains strong in performing its regulatory and policy-making duties. Kudos must go to those who laid the foundation of the Commission, and we have to mention former President Olusegun Obasanjo when we discuss the success of Nigeria’s pension reform. The Commission started off on a good footing in 2004. Interestingly, Mrs DahirUmar served as a member of the Fola Adeola Committee that recommended the establishment of PenCom. She was the Committee Secretary.

When she was appointed as DG by Buhari, I expected her to maintain and improve upon the standards. Anything less and the pension reform would unravel.

The hard facts in the last three years have been very encouraging despite the mountains of challenges that still need to be climbed. One of the most newsworthy developments is the fact that pension assets have grown by N5.94 trillion between then and now, moving from N11.35 trillion to N17.29 trillion. Given the turbulence the economy has passed through, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pension Industry has every reason to appreciate its steady growth. A major impact of this growth is felt in the financial sector. The growing pool of funds has not only helped with savings mobilisation, but it has also expanded the capital market and provided consequential benefits to the economy. Pension funds contribute significantly to infrastructural finance in the country, especially in waste management, independent power generation and road construction (through Sukuk bonds).

Thanks to the growing pension assets, the real sector of the Nigerian economy is receiving more

long-term funds for investment.

Furthermore, between 2020 and 2023, there has been an increase in the number of contributors enrolled on the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which is core to the pension reform. Over the period, CPS has recorded over one million new contributors, according to official statistics. This is remarkable within the context of other developments, such as the exit of certain contributors based on legislative and administrative approvals, and the economic recession induced by COVID-19. Hitting the 10-million mark in the number of registered contributors is good for the headlines but, more importantly, it is worth noting that enrolment has not tanked. With what the economy has gone through in the last three years, the natural expectation would be for enrolment to drop.

That it has kept growing speaks volumes of the resilience of the management of the reform.

Another area of interest to me is the recapitalisation of the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs). When PenCom issued a directive in April 2021 asking PFAs to recapitalise, I received this with mixed feelings.

Their shareholders’ funds were mandated to be increased from N1 billion to N5 billion, with the deadline set for April 2022. On the one hand, I believed it was necessary to strengthen the PFAs because they were carrying more responsibilities by the day. The number of registered contributors and value of pension assets needed to be managed in a way that the PFAs would have to improve service standards, in addition to meeting the operational needs in the industry. On the other hand, I was wondering if the capital review would not lead to the deregistration of some PFAs that might not be able to meet the requirement. It could shake confidence in the industry if it ever came to that. The good news is that the capital review turned out well. No company went under.

Indeed, they all came out stronger, with some receiving foreign investments. What looked like a delicate policy initiative by PenCom ultimately delivered a good outcome.

From the figures I am seeing, PenCom has also succeeded in its efforts at digitalising the industry.

It has revved up the deployment of technology in recent years, and this has seen to the clean-up of the database of contributors in a country where pensioners used to suffer over “missing files”.

In 2019, PenCom had deployed the Enhanced Contributor Registration System (ECRS) to replace the outdated Contributor Registration System (CRS). PenCom then asked all PFAs to do a data recapture of Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders who had been registered on the old system. Contributors’ biodata and biometrics were recaptured under ECRS. This did not just improve the integrity of contributors’ data, but it also made it easy for the automation of the process of generating employer codes for employers.

A direct benefit of this is that since PenCom launched the “Transfer Window” in November 2020 — by which contributors can change PFAs once a year if they are not satisfied with the service of their current PFAs — the ECRS makes the process smoother for RSA holders. Data recently released by PenCom shows that nearly a quarter of a million RSA holders have changed PFAs. The stark reality that account holders can move elsewhere has created competition among PFAs. This can only promote quality service delivery and competitive investment returns.

Mrs Abayomi, an economist, lives in Akure, Ondo State

Regrettably, we live in a society where history is not accorded pride of place. Not many may recall the momentous events that preceded the June 12, 1993 presidential poll and its aftermath, and the many struggles against the military, which led to the current democracy; an unbroken 24 years of civil rule.

Some compatriots sacrificed their comfort, their freedom, their personal liberty, their peace of mind, their family bond, their lives, in order to enthrone civil rule in Nigeria.

During the inauguration of the National Assembly in 1992 by the military president, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), in the short-lived Third Republic, Bola Tinubu, the current president, spoke on behalf of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). He urged IBB not to miss the lifetime opportunity to hand over to a democratically-elected president. As that military regime began to shift the handover date, ban and unban politicians, the strange idea of diarchy was flown as a kite. Tinubu was one of the arrowheads that mobilised for a joint session, across party lines, of the Senate and House of Representatives, which made a historic resolution against elongation of military rule and indicated the National Assembly would not be used nor accept a diarchy. Through his activities in those days, Tinubu became a persona non grata in the military presidency.

Events moved fast. By the time the IBB regime reluctantly committed itself to holding a presidential election in June 1993, it turned out to be the most outstanding success of the administration. It was the first election that saw some members of the same family lining up for SDP and others lining up behind the National Republican Convention (NRC) and both supporters of the two parties returning to the same roof after the election. It was equally historic that Bashir Tofa, the candidate of NRC was defeated in his home state, Kano, by MKO Abiola of SDP. Then out of the blue, IBB announced the cancellation of the watershed election. The political temperature rose to the boiling point.

According to Nelson Mandela in Long Walk To Freedom, “For to men, freedom in their own land is the pinnacle of their ambitions, from which nothing can turn men of conviction aside.”

The military government dangled carrots and sticks and divided the ranks of the political class.

Tinubu, with others, openly appealed to IBB to rescind the annulment. It was well reported in the media how Tinubu, a man of conviction, took along his aged mother, now of blessed memory, to Abuja to appeal to Babangida to preserve the sanctity of the presidential poll.

An interim government was installed, headed by Earnest Shonekan, previously head of Transitional Council. Tinubu was offered

a ministerial appointment, which he rejected, insisting on restoration of the June 12 mandate of MKO. Suddenly Generals Abacha and Diya came into the mix, promising to shove out Shonekan and install Abiola as president. It turned out as a hoax.

Tinubu, a man of conviction, mobilised his fellow senators to openly pronounce Abacha government as illegal, whereupon he was declared wanted along with others.

He initially went underground to continue his mobilisation against the military government, attracting international media attention to the plight of Nigeria.

Not many may recall that Tinubu was incarcerated for weeks in a cell in Alagbon police station in Lagos, where his colleagues and he were maltreated. They were accused of treason by the Abacha government. The military men later broke into his home in Lagos, ransacked everywhere and carted away his property and vehicles; his mother’s house was equally ransacked; the same treatment meted out to some other democracy fighters.

The irony of it all is that Tinubu had the opportunity to return to his plump job at Mobil Nigeria! He was actually on a rare leave of absence because of his enormous value to the company. I guess only a few are aware that Tinubu had made his mark in the corporate world. As a matter of fact, Mobil was reluctant to release him to participate actively in the still birth Third Republic politics. Hence rather than allow him to disengage from the company, he was rather given a leave of absence, the top management of Mobil possibly believing that he would not be able to stay for long in the Nigerian politics. How wrong they were!

Tinubu was hounded into exile by the Abacha goons; he only escaped death by the thin of his skin; a few others were not so lucky. For two years, he did not set his eyes on his family on account of the struggle against military rule in Nigeria.

The Abacha agents were everywhere, both in Nigeria and abroad, and ready to strike the democracy activists. In one or two incidents, Tinubu was nearly arrested in Benin Republic. Even while in the thick of the struggle in the United Kingdom and America, life was not exactly safe for Tinubu and other democracy icons.

The president was one of the arrowheads and financiers of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a body demanding return to civil rule. NADECO succeeded in installing Radio Kudirat and Radio Freedom in the fight against military rule in Nigeria.

It is not common in Nigeria that those who struggled for freedom and expansion of political space lived to reap the fruits of their selfless sacrifice. Today, by the design of fate, Tinubu, the democracy icon, is now the elected president of Nigeria. Unknown to many, his political trajectory places a huge burden on him. It’s no wonder after his election as Lagos governor, he revolutionized the landscape of the state both financially and structurally, and set it on the path irreversible success.

Money, a social enterprise development consultant, writes from Lagos

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EDITORIAL

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

DEMOCRACY AND MAYHEM IN RIVERS STATE The political crisis in the state is unfortunate

who has been in office for a mere five months is Nigerians woke up earlier in the week to a not only premature but reeks of political mischief. nightmare scenario in the politics of Rivers State.

It showcases the assembly members as more The state House of Assembly was razed in what interested in yet unstated matters than the good is suspected to be arson. The governor, Siminalayi governance and peaceful progress of their state.

Fubara, who went to inspect the scene was greeted Meanwhile, insinuations and numerous charges with police tear gas, water cannons as gun shots that Wike may be behind the skirmishes are not rang out in all directions. In the mayhem, it was totally unfounded. “All of us want to be politically uncertain whose thugs and miscreants were in relevant; all of us want to maintain our political charge at the troubled House of Assembly and in the structure,” Wike said on Tuesday. “Will you larger Port Harcourt city. Conflicting mobs soon took allow anybody to just cut you out immediately? to the streets in solidarity with their choice patrons Everybody has a base. If you take my base, am I not and principals. In what has emerged as a seething politically irrelevant?” political fray, it turns out that the fight for turf is There must be a limit to meaningless politics. essentially that between the incumbent governor As a serving federal minister, Wike cannot be seen and his immediate past predecessor, Nyesom Wike, as acting in a manner now Minister of the that is likely to imperil Federal Capital Territory the peace and security (FCT). of his home state while While the precise The move to impeach a governor who has been in office for a mere five being entrusted with subject of contention the fate of the nation’s months is not only premature but reeks of political mischief remains clouded in capital. In addition, it is rumours, hearsay and in Wike’s best interest as wild speculations, the most senior political political stability and representative of Rivers order in the state has been T H I S D AY State in the Tinubu administration to assist in EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU disfigured. Although there are reports of President ensuring the peace and security of all parts of the DEPUTY EDITORS WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA Bola Tinubu meeting with both the governor and MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO nation, especially his home state. the minister, the situation in Rivers is still very DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU Rivers State remains one of the most strategic in much dicey. In the absence of a functioning House of CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI the federation. It is the cosmopolitan home base Assembly and with a politically embattled state chief EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN of the nation’s oil and gas industry. It is home to THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE executive, no semblance of governance and orderly the nation’s second most important sea access social existence is possible. A governor is struggling and marine economy. It boasts a few industries as for political survival while the legislature is battling well as manufacturing and hospitality concerns. to find coherence and continued relevance. In the President Tinubu can therefore not allow petty T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D meantime, the various challenges that confront the politics in the state to endanger that axis of our EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA state like the rest of the country will not go away GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, national security. Although he has reportedly because politicians are fighting over control of ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI met with both combatants, the president must be public resources and ‘political structure’.

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, decisive, especially in reining in his minister who The present crisis in Rivers State is unnecessary ANTHONY OGEDENGBE should face his work in Abuja.

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI and seems simulated by vested interests. Recourse It will be a sad day for the current administration SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH to arson to facilitate a predetermined and wellASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI to allow the political crisis to degenerate to a rehearsed political theatre is mischievous, reckless, CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI level where the president must invoke emergency and irresponsible. The move to impeach a governor DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO powers to keep the peace in Rivers State.

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LETTERS GOOD REWARD SYSTEM: PANACEA TO POOR LAW ENFORCEMENT There is no gainsaying the fact that law enforcement officers play a crucial role in every society. Without them society will become unstable and unlivable for humans. They maintain public safety, uphold the law and enforce the law to ensure some sanity in not only how human beings relate with one another but also how they interact with the environment they live. It is however regrettable that despite the crucial role these law enforcers play, their shortcomings are most times emphasised without taking into consideration the underlining factors causing their occasional misdeeds.

Be it in the police, civil defence, road safety, Immigration, Customs and even Correctional (i.e. Prison) services, there lies some intervening variables that often work against a law enforcement agent in the discharge of his or her duties.

Of course, before assuming duty, a law enforcement agent is mandated to sign an oath of office that he or she will serve with high sense of dedication and resilience within the ambit of the law. But unfortunately, and with passage of time, he or she may be compelled to derail from this oath due to challenges such as lack of promotion, good

reward system, poor and irregular payment of salary as well as inadequate retirement benefit. These are samples of myriads of negativities that society, and particularly the government, often fail to reckon with before chastising law enforcement agents whenever they fail to discharge their duties as expected.

The life of an officer is not without its challenges: long hours at duty post, insults, stress and exposure to life-threatening dangers are few of the hurdles they face in a bid to carry out their duties. Therefore, if after enduring all these traumas and at the end not being well recognised and rewarded commensurably, many do resort to engaging in various unprofessional acts such as bribery, selling of ammunition, armed robbery and other social vices to make up for what they feel they deserve.

Though it needs be emphasised that despite poor reward system and other difficulties they face in the discharge of their duties, those challenges should not be an alibi for law enforcers to misuse the power and authority much less resorting to extra-judicial killings or maiming of innocent

citizens. It is in the light that it is advisable for a law officer that feels that he or she is not receiving a commensurable reward for his or her effort to quit the job rather than transferring his anger on the public that he or she has sworn to protect.

In all, it is of utmost importance for government and the society at large to understand the plight and challenges of the law officers and then devise strategies that will help them to maintain a healthy work-life balance if they are to be serving their communities with passion, and dedication. Also, it must be clearly understood that the wellbeing of the law enforcement agents is instrumental to the peace and progress of the society and as such, finding a healthy work-life balance is crucial for them to effectively deliver on their mandate, and also thrive in their profession.

Alamu Aminat Olajumoke, Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri

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News

L-R: Director General, Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Wale-Smatt Oyerinde; Managing Director, Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Limted, Goran Sladic; Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Aisha Rimi; and Chief Commercial Officer, Mixta Africa, Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani, at the Manufacturing for Prosperity roundtable session held to discuss pathways for achieving sustainable growth through industrialization during the 29th Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja… recently

Optiva Capital Restates Commitment to Support Nigerians Get Access to Global Investment Opportunities Eromosele Abiodun Consistent with its drive to support Nigerians grow their wealth, leading investment immigration wealth management firm, Optiva Capital Partners has restated its commitment to facilitate access to global investment opportunities for discerning High-Net-worth Individuals (HNIs).

At an interactive session with the media in Lagos yesterday, the Managing Director/CEO of Optiva Capital Partners, Ms. Jane Kimemia stated that there is currently an increased incentive for investment immigration, second passport, second citizenship or permanent residency, for investment savvy Nigerians who recognise that these provide global access to boundless opportunities.

According to her, “Our clients are established Nigerians, they are in business, they are executives, so they are very comfortable, but they are looking for global access and acceptance. At Optiva Capital Partners, we are helping our clients to save on what they would have been spending anyway.”

Kimemia further stated that Nigerians being the most global of

Africans seek global opportunities to meet the need for their children’s education, healthcare, access to more economies and markets to expand their trade and business.

Kimemia explained that through second citizenship, Optiva Capital assists discerning Nigerians to save scarce foreign exchange because they pay a fraction of what non-citizens pay for education, healthcare,

Creative Industry Tasked on AI to Enhance Economic Growth Raheem Akingbolu The pioneer President of the International Advertising Association (IAA) and convener of Innovation Series, Dr. Tunji Olugbodi, has recommended Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Nigerian players in the creative industry as the best solution to enhance creativity, as well as unlocking new opportunities in advertising, entertainment and storytelling in Africa.

Olugbodi, who is also the Managing Director of Verdant

Zeal, also stated that AI would help restore ancient art, translate endangered languages and assist in the digitisation of cultural artifacts.

Giving his opening remark at the 11th edition of the annual summit and master class organised

by Verdant Zeal Group with the theme: “The Future of Africa’s Creative Industries in the Era of Artificial Intelligence,” Olugbodi said he was sure that in one way or the other, that everyone has been impacted by Artificial Intelligence; whether positively, negatively, or neutral. He reasoned that whatever

the experience has been for anyone, today, that the story of how collectively technology, creativity, and innovation are converging to shape the future of Africa’s creative landscape will be told.

On how technology can enhance storytelling, the top advertising practitioner explained that “Africa has a wealth of stories waiting to be told.

AI can help creators analyse data and trends to craft stories that resonate with audiences. Moreover, AI can assist in language translation, making African stories more accessible to a global audience yearning for African

content.”

Principal Partner, Cubed Integrated Management Consulting, Dr. David Abodunrin, shed light on Africa’s vast resources and the continent’s untapped potential.

He emphasised the unique minerals found exclusively in Africa, highlighting the extent to which they positively impact the global industrial landscape if well utilised.

He challenged the audience to ponder on the disparity between Africa’s wealth of resources and its current industrialization status.

West, Central African Ports Converge on Nigeria to Strategise on AfCFTA In recognition of the remarkable improvements demonstrated by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) in advancing the frontiers of trade facilitation, the Port Management Association of West & Central Africa (PMAWCA) has conferred the hosting right of its 43rd Annual Council and 18th Managing Directors’ Roundtable on the NPA. The gathering of 24 littoral African countries scheduled to hold from 6th to the 9th of November 2023 at the Lagos Continental Hotel Victoria Island Lagos and is expected to be declared open by

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Themed, “The Role of Ports in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” the event will serve as a platform for the cross- fertilisation of ideas, experiences and knowledge sharing to guide necessary policy action towards maximizing the maritime comparative advantage of the sub-region.

Speaking on Nigeria’s preparedness and expectations from the conference, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola said, “This gathering of maritime experts is

very timely as it is coming when Nigeria is eager to provide the leadership necessary to convert our marine and blue economy potentials to actualities in a bid to provide opportunities for our growing youth population.”

He added, “to demonstrate the premium we place on maximizing the emerging opportunities of AfCFTA which is the focal point of the conference, we have given the Nigerian Ports Authority all the support necessary for a flawless hosting.”

Responding during a media

chat preparatory to the occasion at the NPA Headquarters in Marina, Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mohammed Bello Koko mentioned, “our confidence in hosting this conference in demonstration of our readiness to provide regional leadership in Port competitiveness is inspired by the uncommon trade facilitation orientation of Mr. President who is already endorsing some of our initiatives for the maximization of our littoral assets under the auspices of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.”

Engineering Graduates Urged to Adopt Science, Creative Thinking Emma Okonji The Principal Partner, Integrated Engineering Associates and former Director General, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Aliyu Aziz Abubakar, has challenged the class of 2023 Engineering Graduates of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, to adopt the principles of engineering science as well as creative thinking in addressing critical national challenges.

Abubakar who gave the advice while delivering the induction

speech at the graduating ceremony of the engineering students, reminded them of the need to always adopt science and critical thinking while trying to solve critical national challenges, especially now that they were entering into the labour market.

According to him, the application of creative thinking, problem-solving, and ingenuity to develop novel solutions to complex problems are by default their training as engineers.

Speaking on the theme: ‘The World Ahead: Roles of Science,

Technology and Innovation’, Abubakar reminded the graduating students of the possibilities that the world offers and the vital roles that science, technology, and innovation play in shaping our future.

He insisted that as engineers, they must acknowledge the pivotal role of science in shaping the understanding of the world, adding that science is the bedrock upon which all engineering knowledge is built.

“Science alone is not enough.

Technology, the practical

application of scientific principles, is what empowers us to shape the world. As we all witness today, technology has transformed the way we live, work, and interact with our environment. It has brought us closer to the stars, connected us across continents, and improved the quality of our lives. Engineers are the architects of the past, present, and future technological advancements, shaping our world. You are now uniquely positioned and empowered to bring about positive changes, ”Abubakar said.

property, amongst other social benefits.

“With a second citizenship through Citizenship By Immigration (CBI) or other investments in government designated programs in exchange for permanent residency, for citizenship and global access, emphasised that these not only give recipients global access, but they are also investments and savings, “she said.

Kimemia further explained why Optiva Capital Partners investment immigration services are targeted at High Networth Individuals (HNIs).

She added that when it comes to the cost of CBI or permanent residency, “the value being sought by clients include their wards’ education thereby making investment immigration a vehicle for clients to protect, to grow, to enhance, to diversify their wealth.

“Someone looking for permanent residency or looking to invest in a programme in Canada, their children’s education in a top flight University will cost $6,000 per annum for a Bachelor’s degree programme as against an international student who will pay about $60,000 annually.

At Optiva Capital, we are helping our clients to save on what they would have been spending anyway, so we are saving them the scarce foreign exchange that comes back in developing Nigeria. So we are looking at value, costs, and value across generations as well.”

In order to provide the premium investment immigration services their HNI clientele deserve, Kimemia, informed the select Business Editors that the company has made conscious decisions to be, “where our clients are, and to meet our clients at homes and where they do business, and their offices. Optiva Capital currently has seventeen branches across the country in Lagos, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Warri, Kano, Abuja, and Onitsha.”

She added, “Wherever you go across key markets, you find Optiva Capital Partners. We have a strong extensive distribution and we have invested in our branches and lounges because we do recognise that our clients are high-networth individuals and we take into consideration how we take care of our clients in all our branches.

Additionally, Optiva Capital’s expanding points of sale aligns with its strategy to extend its edge in investment immigration through an operational process which Ms. Kimemia described as being “detailed on documentation and full disclosure.

One of the things we do very well at Optiva Capital Partners is the ability to handle that process, right from origination. We have fully developed our process, a fully dedicated process centre, which has access to 50 to 60 people at once, and we have a team that can help us talk to clients in a very holistic way.”

PMI Boss Lauds Project Managers’ Impact in Business Performance

Emma Okonji

As the world celebrates the International Project Management Day today, the Managing Director, sub-Saharan Africa at Project Management Institute (PMI), Mr. George Asamani, has lauded the impact and crucial role played by project managers across the globe in completing projects In statement signed by the institute and made available to the media in preparation for the International Project Management Day celebration, Asamani said: “Project managers play a crucial role in completing projects, including famous landmarks, yet they are not always as prominently recognised as architects, engineers, or designers. This is because, like superheroes, they leave the scene after saving the day.”

Speaking to the theme: ‘Embrace Empower Evolve’, Asamani said: “Embracing challenges is the essence of project management.

Project managers are trained to handle the unexpected, navigate

uncertainties, and adapt to changing circumstances,” adding that “Successful project managers are flexible in their approaches but are open to change and continuously seek innovative solutions to deliver projects to stakeholders’ satisfaction.”

According to him, “They are equipped with diverse skills, such as leadership, communication, risk management, and problem-solving, enabling them to address various hurdles derailing projects. These skills form the bedrock of their work.”

In the consistently evolving landscape of today’s business and technology sectors, PMI boss stated that project managers would always serve as the linchpin, employing a diverse skillset to orchestrate complex endeavours from inception to completion successfully. They are the unseen forces behind projects, which are fundamentally the building blocks of humanity’s social, economic, and technological advancement, with far-reaching impact in virtually every industry.

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Interview

Agenmonmen: Competitive Awards Will Earn Respect In this interview, former President of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria, Tony Agenmonmen, speaks on the place of competition in brand building and how NMA earned the first international accreditation in Nigeria as an award institution. Raheem Akingbolu presents the excerpts: Since you bowed out of Nigerian Breweries Plc, as a Senior Strategy Manager, you have remained active in the marketing environment, including serving as President of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) and later as a leading figure behind the National Marketing Awards. Are you not fulfilled yet? ’m very fulfilled and one of the signs of my fulfilment is that urge to further impact the market through other means as a professional marketer.

After leaving Nigerian Breweries, where I worked successfully on many international brands and excelled, I saw the need to impact the market further through our noble institute - the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), to reposition it. I met the institute in a very ugly state, with little or no respect and I embarked on total overhauling. Today, the institute has become a very strong brand that every member is proud to identify with.

website and checked. Based on that, they gave us the starting point, in terms of our accreditation.

So, when you look at all the marketing awards in the country, Ours is the only one that has such accreditation.

I

What makes the National Marketing Award unique, despite the array of awards in the market?

First let me start by stating this; Nigeria is a big market and many more award organizations can still join the train. Again, as much as possible, I don’t want to knock any heads or knock any other awards, but what I can say to define NMA is that we don’t see ourselves as a Nigerian award. We don’t compare ourselves with the Nigerian standard. At the beginning -before the first edition, we wanted to look at the best of the best marketing awards worldwide. So, till date, we are benchmarking ourselves against what you can obtain in other advanced markets. From South Africa to Europe and to the US in terms of quality, transparency and in credibility, are the hallmarks because I wouldn’t want to sit down in my office and you come and give me an award. It doesn’t mean anything. Even Journalists, who are taking part in the marketing journalists of the year, for example, are competing with other people.

There will be a panel of judges that will judge what one has done against what other people have done.

For me, that is the standard all over the world. There has to be competition. If you want me to summarize it, our emphasis is on quality, transparency, and integrity.

What are we doing to ensure that? What we have done to ensure that is number one, we discussed with five major industry groups, Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (ARCON), which is the regulator, National Institute of Nigeria (NIMN), which is also the regulator as far as marketing is concerned, Association

How did you get accreditation before the first edition, and why did the accreditation agency not rate you based on the quality of the first edition?

That cannot be correct. And I’ll explain now.

Let’s forget about the award and look at something close to us. For example, if I have money today and I want to establish a university, how will the National University Commission accredit the proposed institution? would they say I should go and start a university before the accreditation? No. They will look at what is the structure, what is the curriculum, where is the funding. These are certain criteria they will check. This is the same process in getting the required accreditation for the award.

Agenmonmen of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) which is for the advertising body, Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN) and the Experiential Marketing Association of Nigeria (EXMAN). We presented what we had and what we wanted to achieve to them all. On the basis of that, we actually got endorsement from those five bodies. But we said that was not enough and like I said, we don’t want to start comparing with Nigeria awards, we want to compare with the international ones. So, we went out and sought out some accreditation agency in the UK to say okay, this is what we wanted to do.

At this point, the rating agency subjected all our systems to all the checks, they asked questions and we answered all the questions. They went to our

Can you please shed more light on the Awards Trust Mark accreditation for NMA? The Awards Trust Mark scheme is an international accreditation programme run by The Independent Awards Standards Council, based in the UK. The goal is, enhancing trust between those entering awards schemes, and the organisations running them. It is based around a voluntary code of conduct that awards organisers commit to.

To get accredited, the IASC carries out a rigorous evaluation and investigation of awards processes and systems. They test for every element of transparency and credibility and only accredits awards that tick all the boxes.

Getting the accreditation is very important for us. Nigerian Marketing Awards® becomes the first in Nigeria and the entire region to get such accreditation. Thus, it puts our awards in the international limelight and reinforces our vision of becoming the biggest and most credible marketing awards in Nigeria.

Our findings revealed that at the close of entries, NMA recorded a 40% increase over last year (from 106 to 147), quite impressive but the question is what do you think informed this?

I don’t want to dwell so much on that because the judges have exclusive rights over some issues but I will say we have gained more traction between last year now if the feedback we got after the first edition is anything to go by. Basically, we really set out to have an award that will compete in the global space. We want to give Nigeria an award that will be on the list globally when you check the website. To me, I don’t think we should continue to remain big giants in Nigeria and then when you go outside, you will say, I wonder which award is that? Gradually, that’s where I want to head to.

So far, I’m fully impressed that from the humble beginning last year, the brand is getting to have roots, and I think people are getting to understand it. It’s a new style, a new method.

Looking back, will you say your background contributed in any way to what you are doing now?

I think this is where we started the conversation. First of all, I am a marketing man, I have been a marketing man all my life, and that’s already a distinction and as a marketing man while working in Nigerian Breweries, I had opportunities to represent my company at both local and international awards events. So, I know what it means to prepare for an award. I can tell you, doing a good job is just a little part of winning an award.

Now, putting together your entry is a completely different ball game. And that’s where a whole lot of people, whether it is a music award, or awards in the creative and the rest of it, a lot of people get it wrong because they say they deserve the award because of what they thought they did well.

Nobody deserves an award. You win an award because you’ve done something and you’ve met the criteria set by the organizers of that award. So, for me, my experience both as a marketing man and all the pieces of work we did and the different awards I had participated in before starting this journey contributed to what I’m doing now. Let me cite an example; X3M Ideas owned by a Nigerian -Steve Babaeko recently won the Cannes Award, the first agency to win from Nigeria in 70 years. It instantly resonated with everybody in Nigeria that we won. It confers a kind of honour and respect on not only the advertising industry but the whole country.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

NITDA Honours Uwaje with National IT Leadership Award Emma Okonji National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the government agency responsible for Information Technology (IT) development in Nigeria, has recognised Mr. Chris Uwaje, an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) expert that has

mentored several Nigerians in the ICT and digital ecosystem both at home and abroad.

Uwaje, who is acclaimed as the pioneer of National Information Technology Development Policy and Strategic framework for Nigeria, was honoured with the ‘National IT Leadership Award’ during the just concluded eNigeria Conference

in Abuja.

The NITDA Award, which was presented to Uwaje by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, represents the fundamental knowledge architecture, noteworthy influencer and dynamic accelerator for sustainable digital development and creation of wealth.

During the presentation, the Minister said: “Indeed it was a historic day for Nigeria and assurances of the attainment of the digital promise for Africa and the world.”

Uwaje is acclaimed as the Pioneer of the National Information Technology Policy for Nigeria (20002002) which created NITDA. He is

Heineken Unveils Limited Edition with ‘Chairman’ Inscription In what looked like the peak of the 150th anniversary celebration of the Heineken brand, management of Nigerian Breweries have unveiled the limited edition of the brand with ‘Chairman’ inscription to reflect the way the brand is being referred to locally.

The Managing Director and CEO of Nigerian Breweries, Hans Essaadi,

had earlier announced at a media parley in Lagos, that the presence of Heineken’s parent company in Africa represents a profound commitment to the continent. He pointed out that the launch of the ‘Chairman’ bottles at the Heineken Lagos Fashion Week was a remarkable demonstration of this commitment as Heineken continues to

embrace and empower communities across the continent.

Senior Brand Manager, Heineken, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Kola Akintimehin, said: “As we unveil these ‘Chairman’ bottles, we’re not just celebrating our 150-year legacy; we’re embracing the future of Heineken in Nigeria.

It’s a tribute to our consumers, our partners, and our incredible journey in this remarkable country. With these bottles, we’re not just sharing a drink; we’re sharing a story, a tradition, and a promise to continue creating gezelligheid – a truly exceptional experience for our valued Nigerian consumers.”

MTV Base Inside Life Naija Returns for Season 2 MTV Base has announced Rexxie, Eltee Skhillz and Liya as the new talents for the second season of MTV Base Inside Life, themed ‘New Wave’.

Following the resounding success of its first season, the MTV Base Inside Life reality docu mini-series promises to take viewers on a

journey behind the curtains of the lives of these three noteworthy and talented personalities.

According to Senior Channels Manager at Paramount, Busola Komolafe, “MTV Base Inside Life delves beyond the glimmering surface of stardom. We aim to present an unfiltered look into the

lives of these music personalities, Eltee Skhillz, Rexxie and Liya, highlighting their humanity and the people who play pivotal roles in their success as well as showcasing different roads which music professionals take to become more relevant forces in the music industry.

“Beyond the glamour, we hope to offer an unfiltered, genuine portrayal of their lived experiences. MTV Base Inside Life will undoubtedly feature thoughtprovoking narratives that resonate and celebrate the shared dreams & ambitions within Nigerian celebrity culture and the music industry,”

Africa Online Safety Fund Announces Grant Winners Emma Okonji The Africa Online Safety Fund (AOSF) has announced the winners of this year’s grants, which include six organisations operating in Nigeria: Access Drive Capacity Development Foundation, Epower, Lagos Mums Foundation, TechSocietal, Teens Can

Code, and Zikoko Citizen.

Nigeria had the highest number of awards, followed by five from South Africa and four to Ghana and Kenya. Cameroon, Somalia and Zimbabwe each had one winner.

Although the winning organisations reflect seven countries, their internet safety interventions

span across 15 African countries in total.

Just over 350 applications were received in the 2023 cohort, from which a shortlist of 40 entries made it for the final selection process.

Each of the eventual winners will receive grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, made possible with the

support of Google.org.

Making the announcement, Impact Amplifier Director, Tanner Methvin said: “With over 500 million people having access to the internet in Africa, reflecting just under 40 per cent of the continent’s population, online safety issues are of critical concern.”

a founding member and Fellow of Nigeria Computer Society (NCS). He is also a Co-founder, past President and Fellow of the Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria (ISPON). Uwaje is a founding Member of Africa Emergency Technology Response Forum.

(AETRF), and he was appointed Africa Chair for IEEE-Global Forum on IoTs in 2016, a position he

currently holds.

He is the founder, Chief Software Architect and Chairman of Mobile Software Solutions and Connect Technologies Limited, respectively.

He was Lead Consultant and conceptualized one of the foremost Nigerian Science and Information Technology Park (SIT Park) and State IT Policy for Akwa Ibom State in 2003-2005.

Konga TV Launches November 6, Offers Free Adverts Emma Okonji After weeks of planning and testing, Konga TV, Africa’s pioneer 24-hour buyers and sellers TV platform, is set to launch on Monday, November 6th, 2023, coinciding with Konga Yakata, Nigeria’s biggest Black Friday sales event.

Konga TV is a groundbreaking platform designed to offer the best deals and competitively priced products from a wide spectrum of sources, including manufacturers, distributors, merchants and resellers.

It is dedicated to bringing these offers to millions of savvy shoppers in Africa’s largest market.

Uniquely, Konga TV is Africa’s first-of-its-kind innovative TV platform solely dedicated to commerce, enabling genuine sellers from various sectors to reach and serve a vast audience, including underserved and unreached markets, both locally and internationally. All transactions are seamlessly and securely facilitated by Konga Digital

Logistics, with payments guaranteed

by Konga Online Shopping Ltd (konga.com).

Next week, the Konga TV management will unveil this unique Internet Protocol TV (iPTV) channel to a global audience, following extensive internal testing. To encourage early subscribers, Konga TV is offering numerous special offers and benefits. For merchants across diverse categories, including FMCG, Auto Dealers, Fashion, Real Estate, Computing, Home and Kitchen, Wine and Spirits, and Mobile Phones, Konga TV is providing free advertising for a limited period.

According to the management of Konga TV, it is a first-of-its-kind channel exclusively focused on commerce.

“Whether you are looking to sell or seeking commerce news that adds value to both merchants and shoppers, Konga TV is your one-stop platform. It also provides storage solutions through distributed warehousing facilities nationwide

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Ugbo: Activation of Bilateral Sales Contracts with End-users Will Cause Revolution in Power Sector Mr. Chiedu Ugbo is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), implementer of the National Integrated Power Projects (NIPPs). In this interview with Peter Uzoho, on the sidelines of the recently held Agbara Business Roundtable in Ogun State, Ugbo speaks on the benefits and opportunities inherent in the activation of bilateral power sales contracts between the company and end-users. Excerpts What is the Agbara business roundtable and the bilateral power project for the industrial clusters all about? ssentially, we’re here to assure or reassure the businesses in Agbara that times are changing. We have a power revolution coming. We are providing end-to-end solutions. In the National Integrated Power Projects (NIPP) as you know, which my company implements, we have about 4000 megawatts capacity approximately, constructed. A lot of this is stranded in the power plants because of a myriad of issues.

But what we have decided to do, leveraging on the evolving regulatory framework in the Nigerian electricity market is to say okay, we have this customers who can take this electricity, what are their challenges?

Let us come in terms of networks’ challenges, clear the last mile, ensure that they get this electricity, and there’s no better place than industrial clusters like Agbara industrial area where they can take, as you heard from the Vice President, up to 200 megawatts, and we’re prepared to serve that.

So essentially, what we’re doing is partner with the transmission company and our private sector partners: EnerixOne, Millwater, Eko Disco, to ensure that we work together, clear this network challenges and flow the electricity to these industrial customers.

If they pay anywhere less than N100 per kilowatt hour, which compares to about N300 to N250 they pay for a self generation now, I think it’s a win-win for everyone. So that’s what we are trying to do.

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The vice president has given a marching order for a timeline when this can be achieved. Can you speak to this?

Thanks for that question. It’s important to also make the point that NDPHC, though a generation company, we’ve been intervening in transmission projects and distribution projects. So we are good.

We understand what is required to deliver these projects.

Before now, we were doing projects all over the country. But the board has said, look, target this project to clusters where you can see the results immediately. So yes, we can deliver and we have said what it will take, the long list items we can get and then the time will work tirelessly to ensure that we meet the deadline given to us by the chairman of our board.

When will you get this same eligible customer arrangement to residents now that you are experimenting with the industrial clusters? And will this guarantee a 24-hour power supply?

We are working to ensure that we have availability of at least 95 per cent of the time.

What’s the timeline for this project?

It’s six months, aggressively.

What’s the volume of power that will be dedicated to this project?

Yes, we have started. We started this eligible customer drive, bilateral drive and you know, we had to market the companies. Some of them were sceptical, saying government thing again? But we are serious. And that is why the vice president has come to say, ‘this company is under me. This administration has a different thinking. Take me for my word, we would deliver’.

Before now, we had signed up to 40 something companies, totalling about 50 megawatts, and I’m sure with the interest shown today, we should be able to do up to 200 megawatts and that’s our target. So we want to power all the industries in this industrial cluster.

Do you have any technical partners providing some solutions?

So, EnerixOne is our partner in terms of financial partners. We are a generation company. There are investments that have to be made in transmission expansion, substation expansion, adding more transformers, MVA capacity transformers and there are investments that have to be made in terms of the distribution lines -33KV lines, the substations

Ugbo

and all that.

This requires money. We cannot fund it alone.

They are actually the ones who marketed the customers and they decided to say, ‘NDPHC, we trust you, we can take your power because you have the biggest portfolio in Nigeria. Of course, we will not fail. So, I will partner with you, we will make the investment together and then, of course, we serve the customers together.’

Can you give a number as to the value of the required investments?

So, it’s not quite a lot, but the engineering survey has to be done, the technical work has been done, but they will have to do the bill of quantities and then bring it back to us.

How many generation plants does NDPHC have currently and what is the total installed capacity and call-up to the grid?

NDPHC has 10 power plants. Eight are already on the grid, two are still under construction. Of these eight on the grid, we have approximately 4000mw installed capacity. But if you look now, because of the challenges in the sector, our call-up to the grid is between 500 and 600mw or 700mw at best.

Transmission has told us they can give us up to 975mw, but the difference is from the gas challenge and a number of factors. But if you have the customers who can take this electricity, who can pay, then we should be able to deliver and do well more than that, well above that. So, the grid is constrained.

There are lots of distribution losses, collection inefficiencies, tariff shortfalls, a number of these factors will be eliminated because the cost associated with these factors are being borne by the Nigerian Electricity Bulk Trading Company and it sits on the federal government’s balance sheet.

But if you contract directly with the endusers, the commercial arrangement is not the

federal government’s business. We supply them electricity and they pay us and we must make sure that we collect. We will put systems in place that will allow us to collect our tariffs. We will put systems in place that will enable us to give them security of supply. So, it’s security of supply, security of payment.

When can we have this kind of arrangement in residential areas where direct bilateral contract between the power supplier and the end-users will be implemented?

As a matter of fact, we started with Eko Disco. Before, we’ve been supplying Eko Disco 100mw, that doesn’t go through NBET. It’s a direct bilateral between us and Eko Disco.

That improved the supply of Eko Disco to Lagos area.

But not just that. Now, we are discussing directly with the Eko Disco and Lekki Residents Association. And we are targeting those group of customers, we are targeting other clusters around the country.

Recently, we signed the framework agreement with Ibadan Disco, that relates more with industrial clusters as well. But as many residential areas they are able to bring, we will work together with them to ensure that these losses we talk about, the technical losses, which has to do with the poles and wires; the commercial losses, which has to do with some level of technology to ensure that there is no power theft or the power theft is reduced, and of course, the collection losses, which is tied directly to metering, that these things are eliminated, it’s not a rocket science. It’s just making the right investment and ensuring that it’s a network business.

I generate electricity in my power plant, there is a transmission to evacuate it and carry it to the load centre where it’s required -the load centre, the distribution facilities.

It’s as simple as that, and that’s what we

are trying to do. It’s not rocket science. We have our private partners working with us, we would bring the funding, the businesses will pay for the investments in the business.

Do you think Nigerians will be willing and able to pay for this kind of arrangement?

That’s why we are starting with the industries first. The industries need it. Like I mentioned, if you are paying for self-generation and you are paying somewhere around N350 per kilowatt hour and somebody is coming to offer you N90 and to guarantee 95 per cent supply availability, you will want to go for that. That will reduce your cost, and that will improve your efficiency.

With the liberalisation of power generation, transmission and distribution and signing of the 2023 Electricity Act, what opportunities do these present to NDPHC and other players in the sector?

That’s what we are saying. In the liberalisation, we have the backing of the Lagos State government, we have the backing of the Ogun State government, you saw them here. So they are taking advantage of it. And again, the Act pretty much supports what we have in NDPHC. The greater investment in NDPHC is by states, 53 per cent, all the states put together. So, for NDPHC, the states have already started doing business and we are trying to now take it to them, the owners of the business and say, look, take ownership, work with us, let us help you light up your state and by so doing, we light up Nigeria.

With all these steps being taken to improve electricity supply to consumers, what kind of environment do you see over the next six months or one year?

I see an environment with improved access to electricity, improved delivery and then, affordable electricity. So, we are pretty much meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) goals.

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T H I S D AY • THURSday NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Property & environment

Structural Engineers Call for Urgent Review of Nigerian National Building Code Bennett Oghifo

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tructural engineers have called for an urgent review of the Nigerian National Building Code to eliminate what they determined as deficiencies responsible for building failure and collapse across the country.

The Nigerian National Building Code (NBC), which was published in 2006 and reviewed in 2016, revealed errors and unsafe recommendations and this faulty code will aggravate incidence of building collapses.

This is according to Engr.

Olushola Sanni, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Structural Engineers (FNIStructE), in his presentation ‘Urgent Review of Nigerian National Building Code (Nbc) is Imperative’ at the annual conference and annual general meeting of the Structural Engineers, which was held in

Lagos recently.

Another Fellow of NIStructE, Engr. Dr. Kehinde Osifala, in his presentation, ‘Emerging Tasks for Structural Engineering Practice in Nigeria’ said the need for a review of the National Building Code is that “the present National building code was acknowledged to have been based essentially on foreign codes which may not have direct relevance to our local environment.”

Engr. Sanni listed deficiencies of the current NBC 2006 edition to include: “Errors in Equations; High Live Loads; Missing Geographic and Environmental Data-Wind and Seismic Maps; and Unsafe Recommendations – Presumptive Soil Bearing Capacities.

He said the importance of geographic and environmental data in the code are: safety and risk mitigation; structural

integrity; resource efficiency; and legal and insurance aspects.

His proposal for remedy is the establishment of “a committee for review; document the issues; public notice and recall; temporary suspension; revising the code; correcting errors through inclusion of missing data; safety enhancements; and legal review.

Other proposals for remedy are the “review and validation; public consultation; approval and adoption; republishing; communication and training; enforcement and compliance; periodic review.”

The stakeholders to be involved in code review, he said, are: government agencies; professional associations; academia; Architects and Engineers; local communities; insurance companies; and industry experts.

According to him, “the National Code of practice is

the cornerstone of safety, quality, and reliability in the built environment. It is the foundation for designing and constructing structures that protect lives,

property, and the environment.

“Adherence to the code is not just a professional duty but a legal obligation, and the accuracy of its contents is a prerequisite

for ensuring the integrity of the built environment. The code is a testament to our commitment to the well-being of society and the advancement of our profession.”

L-R: Project Manager, Buildwell Plant & Equipments Industries Ltd, Mr George Mohanna; Director, Highway, Bridges and Design, Federal Ministry of Works, Mr Omotayo Awosanya; Minister of Works, Mr David Umahi; Controller of Works, Federal Works Lagos, Mrs Olukorede Kesha; and Director Federal Highway Southwest, Mr Adedamola Kuti, during the Minister’s Inspection to the under deck Lagoon sections of the Third Mainland Bridge, Carter Bridge and Independence Bridge in Lagos… recently

Houston EB5, 3INVEST Hold Abuja Investor Event in November Fadekemi Ajakaiye With 8,506 EB5 visas issued this year, the EB5 Visa programme comes back strong as the most reliable way to obtain US residency through investment Houston EB5 has announced its roadshow to Abuja to meet and introduce “the Frederick”, the new Priority processing EB5

Investment project located in the heart of the Texas Hill and Wine Country to potential EB5 investors.

Houston EB5 is a top-rated, award-winning, EB5 regional centre with strong alliances across major EB5 markets including Nigeria. As a vertically integrated company, the team at Houston EB5 invests alongside its clients

on every project, meaning they only succeed when you do. Since its inception, the Houston EB5 team has worked diligently to sponsor over 1,300 green cards for investors and their families.

Houston EB5 will be live in Abuja and Lagos from November 1st through to November 4th, 2023, to introduce, meet and educate new investors in the

Northern region about the EB5 program and how they can obtain their US green card within 4-12 months with the new priority processing policy.

With over a decade of partnership with Houston EB5 and the positioning it has acquired as the leading EB5 company in Nigeria, is a testament to the real advantage of the EB5 program

for Nigerian citizens seeking US residency through investment, says Ruth Obih, CEO, 3INVEST. The EB-5 visa provides a method of obtaining a green card for foreign nationals who invest in a “new commercial enterprise in the United States. The EB-5 program affords foreign nationals and their spouses and unmarried children under age 21 the ability

to obtain a U.S. visa based solely upon a minimum investment in a for-profit enterprise that creates or retains a specified number of jobs”. To obtain the visa, individuals must invest $800,000 (TEA) or $1,050,000, creating or preserving at least 10 jobs for U.S. workers excluding the investor and their immediate family.

NBRRI is Panacea to Nigeria’s Building, Ekiti Group Sends SOS to Umahi on Bridge Collapse, Says FG Federal Road Gridlock Bennett Oghifo The federal government has said the Nigerian Building and Road and Research Institute (NBRRI) is the solution to the reoccurring building and bridge collapse in the country.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji stated this recently at the sideline after inspecting facilities at the corporate headquarters of the Institute.

He said there was no doubt that NBRRI has done very well, On the reoccurring building and bridge collapse in the country, stating that it would become an issue of

the past if individuals and stakeholders patronised NBRRI, adding: “If we have NBRRI patronised we won’t be having collapsed bridges.

Roads will not fail as quickly as they do.

Nnaji, said: “If the materials being used for roads are subjected to integrity tests you will find out that from the machines that we saw you will be able to determine how long a road will determine whether it will or should for 0ne year or 10 years. All these things are found here.

“On the collapse building I was just looking at their machines that test rods. There is a rod there the specification

is Y20 but we found out that it is even less than Y18 these are parts of the reasons that caused problem in designing because when you design a building then you put Y20 and it turns out to be Y18 what will be result over time the rods will carry the building it will fail.

“So, I’m employing and will discuss with the Minister for Works, Engr. David Umahi, we will share ideas and exchange ideas on how we can help the contractors through free testing rights so that they (contractors) so that they pay any money because we are looking at the safety of our people.

Fadekemi Ajakaiye The Minister of Works, Dr. David Umahi, has been urged to provide an urgent succor for residents of Ekiti State communities, who have been cut off from one another due to gridlocks caused by dilapidated federal roads.

The call was made by Ayebode Progressive Association (APA), a development organ of Ayebode-Ekiti, one of the badly affected communities located within Ekiti North Senatorial District of Ekiti State.

In a statement signed by the Group’s spokesperson, Mr. Femi Owoeye, the group explained that for over seven weeks, inces-

sant trailer traffic standstill has constituted health and security risks for communities located within Ikole and Ekiti East local governments.

In particular, APA urged the minister to incorporate Ekiti State Federal Roads in his ongoing inspection tour and mapping of critical federal road infrastructure begging for urgent intervention.

“The minister,” APA stressed, “needs to tour Ekiti State, because seeing is believing.” The group lamented that the network of federal roads, which naturally should have been a blessing to the state and its people, has been a curse, suggesting that successive federal ministers of

works possibly missed the state on their radar.

“The result is a federal road network in perpetual dilapidation, often cutting neighboring communities away from one another,” it explained, adding, “If the minister would, for example, approach Ekiti through the Kabba-Omuo-Ikole axis, he would get stuck at AyebodeEkiti, which is currently cut off from OdoAyedun-Ekiti, the next town both in Ikole LGA. “Between the two towns, commuters from either side now come down at a forced terminus mid-way, because of the gullied federal road and make the rest of their journey on foot or simply go back.

Blakskill Celebrates Trail Blazing Talent Julius Berger Transiting Into Conglomerate, Says MD Richter Development Achievements Fadekemi Ajakaiye Blakskill Limited, a Global HR tech platform that focuses on talent identification, incubation, acquisition, profiling and verification that bridges the gap between job seekers and employers, is pleased to announce a significant milestone, having made a profound impact on the careers of over 4410 professional talents over the past six months across Africa (Nigeria, Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire, Zambia, South Sudan, South Africa, Senegal, Mali, Tanzania, Egypt, Mozam-

bique, Benin Republic, Uganda, Namibia), Europe (France, Turkey, Germany, the United Kingdom), the United States, and Asia(India, Japan). These impacts have been instrumental in reshaping the global talent landscape by equipping professionals with essential skills and connecting them with coveted opportunities.

Blakskill Limited, through its various initiatives and platforms, has significantly reshaped the careers and aspirations of professionals worldwide. The areas of impact encompass Career Advisory, Interview Preparations,

Career Webinar Talks, Global Leadership Reflection Seminars, Resume Reviews, Career Fairs, and, notably, Internships and Job Placement.

Omojola

Bennett Oghifo Julius Berger is transiting to a conglomerate, the Managing Director, Engr Dr Lars Richter has said.

Richter stated this recently while providing participants at Julius Berger’s Group Investors Forum with an update on the company’s business performance, strategy and operations in 2023, as well as speaking to the outlook for the business of the company.

He said: “The company is transiting to a conglomerate

by continually driving growth across our core businesses and our subsidiaries, through which we deliver value-added services along the entire value chain of the construction industry.”

The Managing Director assured all of management’s determination to ensure positive transition of the company to “a conglomerate,” stating: “At the heart of our conglomerate transition is our diversification pillar, which we successfully kick-started in 2020 through the cashew processing business.

We expect to reap significant

benefits from our diversification efforts in the medium to long-term. We have achieved notable success so far, including exporting processed cashews to the international market. We are also looking at other sectors like healthcare, where we can create added value.”

The 2023 edition of the Julius Berger Group Investors Forum held recently via zoom with stakeholders and shareholders satisfied with the growth trajectory of the leading engineering construction company, officials said in a statement.

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T H I S D AY • Thursday, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Health & lifestyle

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

Ending Bullying, Discrimination against Persons with Cleft, and Need for ‘Smile Therapy’

In this report, Sunday Ehigiator writes about the need for all stakeholders to come together against bullying and discrimination of persons born with cleft, just as he stressed the need for Smile Train, an international children’s charity that sponsors 100 per cent free cleft repair surgery and comprehensive cleft care for children globally, to include therapeutic sessions, tagged ‘Smile Therapy’ in its comprehensive cleft care, I order to help persons with cleft deal better with bullying and discrimination

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ullying is a repetitive and deliberate negative behaviour towards an individual who is incapable of defending him/herself. It is a fairly common condition in school children, with a global prevalence of five per cent to 58 per cent. Bullying can occur relationally, verbally or physically.

Being bullied has many lifelong negative effects on an individual’s emotional state.

Those who are bullied may experience negative physical, mental, social and spiritual effects.

It has been observed that the rates of absenteeism and dropping out of school increase as bullied students are often afraid of school. Speaking with THISDAY, a parent (name undisclosed), revealed that she has had to change school for her son born with cleft for the third time in two years, due to several aggravated incidents of bullying.

Victims often feel anxious, insecure and lonely, and often have a negative selfevaluation and low self-esteem. It has been observed that those who are bullied have a high risk of experiencing severe mental health problems. It has also been found that suicidal thoughts and self-harming behaviours increase in victims who are constantly bullied.

Understanding CLP Speaking with THISDAY, a Medical Expert and the First Oral, Maxillofacial Surgeon in Nigeria, Prof. Olugbemiga Ogunlewe, explained that Cleft Lip Palate (CLP) is a birth defect characterised by a split either in the lip or a hole in the palate.

She said: “When a baby is born, the baby just comes out with the discontinuity of the upper lip or a big hole in the roof of the mouth.

“Cleft anomaly is not a life-threatening anomaly. It is not something that will kill the baby. It is not evil. It is treatable, and the child can also live a normal life.”

She noted that the causes of CLP are not yet fully understood, and research is still ongoing. However, she said “it is believed that it is caused by the interplay between what we acquired from outside and then the genetics, what is internal.

“And because we don’t understand the causes we talk about risk factors that are those things that predispose an individual to having cleft. Most often it has to do with what the pregnant mother eats or was exposed to during pregnancy.

“If she is exposed to some radiation, takes some drugs that have not been fully studied or takes some concussion that she doesn’t know what it contains, or if she is sick during pregnancy etc. These are predisposing factors.

“That is why we advise that a pregnant mother should be cautious of what she takes in and the environment she goes to during pregnancy,” she said.

Bullying of Persons with Cleft Dentofacial anomalies can lead to an increase in bullying among children and adolescents. The exposure of individuals to teasing because of their teeth and facial features has been a subject of interest in the orthodontic literature.

It has been determined that there is a significant relationship between bullying, malocclusion and self-esteem in adolescents.

Cleft lip and/or palate (CLP) are congenital malformations that can affect the head, lips and intraoral structures. Although it varies depending on genetic and environmental factors, the incidence of CLP is very common with 1 in 700.

Children with CLP have some functional and aesthetic problems such as difficulty in closing the mouth, feeding difficulties at birth, hearing problems, speech difficulties and dental problems. As a result of such difficulties, individuals with CLP are at increased risk of being bullied.

Victims of Bullying Below are the experiences of Shadrach and Kaosarat as shared with THISDAY; Shadrach and Kaosarat were born with Cleft Lip and Palate (CLP) and suffered from bullying and discrimination from a very tender age, and still get discriminated against at adulthood.

to them. Because of what happened to me in my senior secondary school, I just had to neither put myself in a situation where no one would mimic or bully me.

“But after my surgery which was sponsored by Smile Train, I became more confident in myself to the point that I don’t care if you mimic me, but I can never be bullied anymore.”

Caricature of a boy being bullied with an inscription of ‘Say No to Bullying ‘Onimu asin’ (mouse nose), and ‘Aranmu’ (someone who speaks through the nose) were some of the adjectives used to describe 37 years old Shadrach Aruoture, throughout the later part of his primary school, and all through his secondary school.

“I also remember when one of my teachers asked the whole class to sing a body-shaming Yoruba song for me. The Yoruba song was ‘Asin bumi ni mu je’ (meaning, mice have bitten off my nose), due to the way I talk. I cried my eyes out.

I couldn’t beat my teacher, but if I had my way, I would have beaten him up.

“This was a very terrible experience.

Not knowing who to turn or report to.

As small as I was then, I knew I was in trouble. I was bullied to the extent that my academic performance became very poor.

“I could also remember vividly that there was this particular guy when I was in secondary school who always threatened and liked to beat me up at any point he set his eyes on me. He was asked why he always does that. He said he doesn’t like me because of the way I talk.

“Bullying is one major evil we experience as a cleft patient. It’s so bad to the point that I became calculative when associating with people. I chose where to be and who to be with, most especially at school.

This resulted in always wanting to be alone, and at a time had a huge effect on my self-confidence.

“Even now as an adult, I owe Smile Train all the thanks for helping me correct my cleft lip and palate problem, which has boosted my confidence in no small measure, however, the bullying and discrimination aren’t automatically ending anytime soon.

“Let’s talk about getting married. This is another big problem for cleft patients.

Thank God for the woman (Mrs Mabel) God gave me at last. Before her, I have had scenarios where ladies would say stuff like, ‘I am not a man they can be with because they can’t withstand the shame of being called Iyawo Asin (Mice Wife), or look down on them because of how I speak.

“There is another scenario where my proposed in-laws said I was not presentable or fit to be called his in-law. Isn’t this emotionally traumatic? It is really sad because people tend to make it look as though being a cleft patient is self-inflicted.

“It isn’t, I didn’t choose to become a cleft patient, I was born like this, and I shouldn’t be discriminated against for being different.” Shadrach sobs.

Shadrach said with the overwhelming bullying and discrimination, at some point in his life, he saw his condition as a curse and the thought of ending it all became a constant in his mind, but for ‘Smile Train’ who came to the rescue by sponsoring him to undergo corrective surgery for his palate in 2017.

For 25-year-old Kaosarat Bankole, who is now a Dental Technician at the Lagos Island General Hospital, she never encountered a bully till she was in senior secondary school.

According to her, “Cleft gave me a different meaning to life till I met Smile Train. I couldn’t talk or express myself around people apart from people close to me like my sister, and a few family members. It made me a loner, stigmatised, emotionally drained, and mentally unstable, and it made me feel worthless at times.

“During my stay in junior secondary school, I had no cause to worry about bullying and mimicking because I was mostly on my own and I only talked to people who were closer to me. At some point, my teacher started getting to know me through my academic performance.

“However, the story changed upon getting admission into the senior secondary school. The bullies from my so-called seniors were unbearable.

It started affecting me academically but then I just tried to struggle and do what I could do.

“There was this particular day I can never forget. A senior of mine sent one of my colleagues to call me, and being a junior student, I was scared and started wondering about what I did to have warranted being called.

“So I went to see him. Upon getting there, they intentionally asked me to pronounce a word, and I did, and then they started laughing at me so hard that they were rolling on the floor.

“I felt so angry, and I just walked away and went into my classroom to cry but then I could hear one of my classmates shouting at them and insulting them back. Since then, I fell back to my shell, became very quiet and just pulled back myself and it affected me academically because I couldn’t talk about it to anyone nor stop thinking about it.

“It wasn’t really easy, and it went on to affect me in my higher institution.

In higher institutions, I don’t talk in class; I don’t publicly answer any questions despite knowing the answers

Bullying is one major evil we experience as a cleft patient. It’s so bad to the point that I became calculative when associating with people. I chose where to be and who to be with, most especially at school. This resulted in always wanting to be alone, and at a time had a huge effect on my self-confidence

Encounter with Smile Train Speaking on how he came in contact with Smile Train, Shadrach said: “I went for ministration with my crew at one musical concert around Ojuelegba. While I was singing, a lady heard me and came requesting to see me after the event. We met and she told me she could be of help with my speech getting better. That she would recommend me to a doctor and that the surgery was free.

“The lady connected me with one Nurse Adesewa who in turn introduced me to the maxillofacial department and I was briefed about Smile Train, to be the sponsor of the surgery. To God be the glory, the surgery which would normally have cost me millions of naira was done for me free of charge.

“I was also enrolled in speech classes to help me improve my speech, free of charge by the organisation.

“Today, there is a lot of difference between where I was before, and where I am now in terms of my speech. It has drastically improved. Also, I am no longer hostile to people; I have learnt to love myself better and this has improved my self-esteem a lot, and being around kids also helped me in a lot of ways to be in control of my emotions regardless of what is said against me.”

Asked if he ever went through a therapy session to address his bullying and discrimination experiences, he said, “No, but I would have loved to, even now as we speak, there is rarely anyone you can talk to about being bullied or discriminated against as a person with cleft.

“I think Smile Train can also be a pioneer of that because they already have the facilities and are better experienced in any issue regarding persons living with cleft. I think therapy sessions should be inculcated among the ‘Comprehensive Cleft Care’ which they provide.”

On her encounter with Smile Train, she said she was first informed about the organisation through a close family associate simply identified as Mrs. Balogun, who had also heard from her uncles who once worked at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).

She said, “I am happy to also be identified with an organisation from which I have immensely benefited. From my surgery and now speech therapy, I have not paid a single naira to receive this treatment.

“Since my Surgery in 2019, there have been a lot of changes within me and the way people see me. My speech is better; my confidence has immensely improved, including my self-worth. Smile Train is a lifesaver and destiny changer for children with cleft.

“The speech therapy sessions have helped me in a very positive way. But I also wish they could have therapy sessions to help us recover from the bullying and discrimination we encounter in our day-to-day interactions with the rest of the world. This would go a long way to build our confidence, and retain our self-dignity.”

Importance of Therapy for Persons with Cleft Speaking with THISDAY on the impact of bullying and discrimination on persons with cleft and the importance of persons with cleft undergoing therapy, Registered Dental-Oral Health Nurse (RDOHN) and Cleft Speech Therapist, Babatunde Abosede Adejoke, said, “Bullying can affect everyone; those who are bullied, those who bully and of course those who witness bullying.

“Children who have cleft lip and palate tend to experience negative outcomes, which include impacts on physical, social, NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

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T H I S D AY • Thursday, november 2, 2023

news

Nigerian Navy Fosters CMR, Conducts Medical Rhapsody in Lagos Community

Commander, NNS WEY, Commodore Mohammed Dahiru handing over samples of the mosquito nets to Secretary of Oriade Council, Mr. Rasaq Akorede Olojede and others

Chiemelie Ezeobi In a bid to foster civil-military relations, the Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) WEY, Commodore Mohammed Dahiru, recently conducted a Medical Rhapsody in the Oriade Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos.

The Rhapsody, which reinforced the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to its host community, was aimed at enhancing the well-being of the residents, promote cooperation, and contribute to environmental beautification.

Expressing appreciation for the harmonious relationship that exists between NNS WEY and Navy Town, Commodore Dahiru said the initiative was in line with the directives contained in the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla, Strategic Directive for 2023, which encouraged units like NNS Wey to conduct civil-military activities in host communities as a token of gratitude for their continuous support and peaceful coexistence.

At the Oriade Rhapsody, naval medical personnel gave health talks, con-

ducted pre-medical checks and provided essential treatments.

In addition, Commodore Dahiru donated drugs, mosquito nets, and chairs to expectant mothers attending ante-natal clinics.

He also tackled environmental concerns in the community by ensuring naval personnel cleared the drainages, thereby enhancing the environment’s aesthetics and reducing mosquito infestation.

In an interview afterwards, Commodore Dahiru, reiterated the NN’s commitment to the welfare of the community, adding that it marks the beginning of similar endeavours that would extend to other communities within their jurisdiction.

He expressed gratitude to the local government and traditional rulers for their support and appreciated the enthusiastic participation of community members.

He said: “Today, we thought it wise to come here and conduct medical rhapsody to do pre-medical checks, donate drugs, mosquito nets and donate chairs to our pregnant women that come for ante-natal.

We have also come here with our personnel to clear the drainages around.

“All these are aimed towards enhancing the well being of members of the community and also to mitigate the effects of climate change, to beautify and to clean the environment.

“For us the Nigeria Navy Ship Wey, we administer 10 barracks areas and this is the beginning. We’re going to touch all other communities. I want to seize this opportunity to thank Oriade local government and the leadership of the local council and other local governments as well as the traditional rulers here for coming out.

“I want to thank the members of the community for coming out en-mass to participate in this programme. I also appreciate our commander Nigerian Navy Reference Hospital and his team for supporting us with this outreach.”

Expressing the council ‘s delight, Executive Chairman of Oriade LCDA, Hon. Romotalai Akinola Hassan, acknowledged the cordial relationship between the community and the navy.

Hon Akinola who was represented by the Secretary of the Council, Mr. Rasaq Akorede Olojede, encouraged residents to make the most of the pri-

Commodore Dahiru clearing the drainages with naval personnel of NNS WEY

Commodore Dahiru, Mr. Olojede and Commander Nigerian Navy Reference Hospital, Surgeon Captain Ikechukwu Chukwuka kicking off the medical Rhapsody

mary healthcare program offered by the Nigerian Navy, underscoring the enduring support of the local council.

He said: “We want to say emphatically that we have been enjoying a very cordial relationship in the area of security and protection of lives of property from this office of the Nigerian Navy and we wish to assure them our regular support at all time when the need arise.”

Also speaking, the Commander of the

Nigerian Navy Reference Hospital, Surgeon Captain Ikechukwu Chukwuka said some patients will receive immediate treatment, while those with chronic conditions will be referred to appropriate hospitals for further care.

He said: “Some of the people may require treatments so we treat them on the spot. Some that have chronic cases like Hypertension cannot be treated once. “ We may need further review. So we can refer you to the nearest hospital, of

which Nigeria Reference Hospital is near enough or any other Hospital as the case may be for further review.

“We may also pick specific one or two surgical cases that we may tackle, that is if a definite diagnosis is made or if there is a need for further review. We have our machines like MRI and other diagnostic tools that we use to further evaluate patients.

So in such cases we may invite them to the hospital.”

Empowering Hygiene: Dettol’s Unwavering Commitment to Global Hygiene Education Pr e c i o u s U g w u zo r As our world continues to evolve, the need for heightened hygiene practices has become increasingly apparent.

The growth of developing nations, both in population and other aspects, has underscored the importance of improving sanitation and public health.

Yet, for many of these nations, like Nigeria, maintaining high levels of hygiene in communities and cities remains a formidable challenge.

This struggle is particularly significant in the context of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), where Nigeria faces obstacles in meeting these global objectives.

As we celebrate

Global Handwashing Day, every October 15th, it is paramount to recognize the pivotal role hand hygiene plays in safeguarding society’s collective well-being.

The importance of cultivating proper handwashing etiquette has become a clarion call for various health and hygiene organisations, like Reckitt Nigeria.

Being a practice that transcends beyond cultural barriers and languages, proper handwashing practices have been shown to curb several infectious diseases. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), raising awareness about the importance of handwashing in communities has significantly reduced diarrhoea by 23-40 per cent.

Further, this decreased diarrheal illness in people with weakened immune systems by 58 per cent.

Such aware n e s s h a s l e d t o a re d u c t i o n i n respiratory illness in the general population by 16-21 per cent and gastrointestinal illness in school children by 29-57 per cent.

In light of this, Reckitt Nigeria has continued to foster the importance of hand hygiene through hygiene-focused partnerships and initiatives t h ro u g h i t s f o re m o s t b r a n d , Dettol Nigeria. Dettol has highlighted the importance of hand hygiene in fostering the public and collective health of the nation as a whole.

The commemoration o f t h e G W H D s e r ves

as Dettol’s call to action of integrating hand hygiene into our daily routines, as it helps promote significant positive behavioural changes.

Additionally, the brand aligns its activities with this year ’s theme —’Clean Hands are Within Reach’— by constructing a solarpowered borehole and water station in Area J4, Omo Forest Reserve, Ogun State.

More so, understanding that partnerships are at the core of sustainable progress in the collective health of the nation, Dettol’s ‘Clean Naija’ initiative, a longterm partnership with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources since 2019, has been a nationwide hygiene program crafted to raise awareness and educate

the public about the significance of employing proper handwashing techniques.

Dettol aims to achieve a 10 per cent drop in diarrhoea cases, as well as reduce school absenteeism by 10 per cent in 2025, through the adequate empowerment of millions of school children in good hygiene and proper handwashing etiquette vis-a-vis the ‘Hygiene Quest Curriculum’.

In 2022, Dettol partnered the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) to accelerate the Hygiene Quest Program in Lagos, Abuja and Kwara. The impact endline assessment showed a 31.9 per cent increase in knowledge of handwashing among schoolchildren, a significant 40.9 per cent rise in the practice

of handwashing and hygiene among community members, and a remarkable 38.6 per cent increase in hygiene knowledge among pregnant women in healthcare facilities.

These outcomes underscore the profound positive impacts of this intervention.

A look back at Dettol’s legacy reveals a consistent and passionate drive over the past 50 years, inspiring public health campaigns to revolutionise hygiene habits among Nigerians of all ages and genders.

Handwashing, over the years, has evolved into a pivotal tool to save lives and alleviate diseases. Through strategic partnerships and symbolic initiatives, we can create a purposeful future with clean hands.

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T H I S D AY • Thursday, november 2, 2023

NEWS

PCN Inducts 116 OAU Graduates Africa’s Biggest Fitness Party, VerveLife 6.0: An African into Pharmacy Profession Celebration of Fitness and Wellness

Rebecca Ejifoma

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has inducted 116 pharmacy graduates of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) into the pharmacy profession.

The event held recently at the campus in Ile-Ife, Osun State was the major highlight of the activities marking the 60th anniversary of the university’s faculty of pharmacy.

In his welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Prof. Francis Oladimeji said that the new pharmacists were the 2021 and 2022 graduating sets of the Faculty.

He said 31 of them were graduating with distinction while the remaining 85 had passed degrees.

“They have been thoroughly baked to veer into any human endeavours for success and survival,” he said.

Oladimeji congratulated the inductees for their resilience and determination to survive at all odds.

He urged parents and guardians to continue their oversight responsibilities of guiding the young professionals through the school of life.

In his speech, the Registrar of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, Pharm. Ibrahim Ahmed described the oath-taking and induction as one of the key requirements prescribed by the PCN Establishment Act which has to be fulfilled before registration as a pharmacist.

He said: “As you take the oath today and become inducted members of the pharmacy profession, I urge you to maintain high ethical standards and leadership skills as prescribed by the PCN. He encouraged them to endeavour to be worthy professionals to attain excellence in providing quality pharmaceutical services to sustain health care delivery in Nigeria.

“As pharmacists, you are expected to get yourself acquainted with the code of professional ethics which prescribes your professional and

moral responsibilities to the patients, to your pharmacist colleagues, other health care professionals, your employer wherever he may be as well as the general public among others.

“Strict compliance to the code of ethics is indispensable for the practice of pharmacy profession anywhere in the world,” he outlined.

After being successfully registered as a pharmacist, Ahmed said they would have the opportunity to positively compete favourably with their colleagues whom they aspire to be like in their areas of practice.

“It may be of great interest to you that there is no limitation to where each of you can get to in life,” he added.

“Pharmacy is a noble profession. It provides you, as new graduands, the prospects of practising in different fields of the profession.

“This cuts across the industry, the community, hospital pharmacy practice, administration, research,

academia and even in other fields of human endeavour such as ICT, journalism and governance, meaning that you have a lot of opportunities ahead of you.”

However, Ahmed told them they require due diligence and appropriate guidance and mentoring to excel in those areas.

“Ensure that you identify a mentor that will guide you through the area of your interest,” he implored the inductees.

He further dissuaded them from indulging in unwholesome practices, saying the Council frowns at professional misconduct in its entirety.

“Refrain from any act of misconduct as this will be treated with all seriousness it deserves.

“The PCN Act has provided for the establishment of an investigative panel as well as the disciplinary tribunal as a mechanism for handling issues of professional misconduct,” he warned.

A cross-section of the 116 Pharmacy inductees

Malaria:Babcock Don Calls for UrgentLegislationto Reduce Death Funmi Ogundare A Professor of Parasitology and Public Health Entomology, Isaac Oyewole, Babcock University, Ilishan - Remo, Ogun State, has called for urgent and appropriate legislation to stem malariacaused deaths by focusing on drainage clearing and sanitation.

Prof. Oyewole who made this call , recently, at the 44th inaugural lecture of the institution, titled, ‘Parasites and Vectors: The Siamese Twins That Kill Softly’, which he delivered, explained that successful implementation of functional health policies, operative legislation, and right attitude to healthy lifestyles and

hygienic environment if put in place, would incapacitate the symbiotic association between the vector and parasite.

He stressed the need for alternative therapies that are not only effective against resistant malaria, but also available and affordable to the vulnerable group who do not have access to expensive orthodox medicine or modern health facilities.

According to him, “Malaria prevention involves avoiding bites by parasite carrying anopheles mosquitoes or preventing diseases by using antimalarial drugs. In preventing malaria, focus is more on the vectors and parasites.

“There are several health

policies and plans in Nigeria to preventing diseases from parasites and vectors, however, the crux of the matter is poor implementation due to lack of accountability and leadership skills.”

The university don emphasised need for more commitment on the part of leaders to ensure continuous operation of these policies for sustainable performance that will guarantee the wellbeing of citizens.

“Vector-borne protozoan diseases constitute a serious threat to health and socio-economic status of the people, particularly in the tropical region where poverty, ignorance together with vector favourable climates are

the dominating factors.”

Prof. Oyewole cited other millitating factors as human behaviour , cultural practices, customs, traditions and inadequate social amenities, saying that access to portable water in preventing waterborne diseases, good housing scheme, well planned environment and availability of other basic amenities would further reduce contact with parasites and vectors.

He called on the federal government to re-organise and re-establish a functional and sustainable primary health care system for the poor in the rural areas whose hope for medical attention is the primary health centres.

PSHAN Annual Awards Night to Hold November Mary Nnah ‘The 2023 PSHAN Annual Gala and Awards Night by the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria PSHAN) is set to foster a whole-of-society approach to improving health outcomes in the country.

It will provide a forum for captains of industry, global health players, key stakeholders in the Nigerian

business and health sectors, government at all levels, corporate executives, NGOs and philanthropists to advance healthcare in Nigeria, highlighting PSHAN’s successes and spotlight opportunities for collaboration.

According to the MD/CEO, PSHAN, Dr Tinuola Akinbolagbe, the event, tagged, “Advancing Healthcare in Nigeria”, is scheduled to

be held in Lagos on Friday, November 3rd, 2023, is PSHAN way of establishing an annual forum that brings together key stakeholders and the organised private sector to recognise significant contributions to healthcare.

“PSHAN’s Gala and Awards night will be a magical evening of celebration, culture, and entertainment.

PSHAN aims to recognise the

efforts and achievements of individuals organizations and institutions, in advancing healthcare and improving health outcomes in Nigeria”, Akinbolagbe noted further.

Simultaneously, the organisation is actively pursuing collaborations with global healthcare entities to enhance its initiatives and broaden its impact on the healthcare sector.

Verve, Africa’s leading payment cards and digital tokens brand, has announced the grand finale of its VerveLife 6.0 fitness and wellness event, slated to hold on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at the Landmark Event Center, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The grand finale promises a memorable experience for fitness enthusiasts and wellness seekers, as it will feature an esteemed lineup of fitness experts and dance instructors who will guide attendees through invigorating workout sessions and exciting dance routines.

Culminating in the unparalleled fusion of fitness, and music, attendees will also be treated to great performances by premium band, Alternate Sound, and on the sidelines, there will be breakout sessions, and other wellness-promoting activities. In line with its unwavering commitment to providing top-tier and holistic experiences for fitness enthusiasts, Verve has partnered with renowned brands such as global sportwear brand, adidas as well as Technogym, Aquafina, Pocari Sweat and others.

Commenting on the VerveLife 6.0 grand finale, Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President, Group Marketing and Communications at Interswitch Group said that the VerveLife Initiative is a demonstration of the firm’s commitment to empower Africans to embrace a healthier lifestyle.

She said that following the successful round of VerveLife 6.0 satellite events organized in select cities across country, and beyond, where more enthusiasts were given a taste of the fun, fitness, food and music that is Vervelife’s consistent signature, the stage has been set to host the VerveLife grand finale on the first Saturday of November, at the popular Landmark Event Center, Victoria Island, Lagos.

She said “Celebrating the journey towards fitness and well-being is at the heart of VerveLife 6.0. We believe that health is not just a destination; it’s a lifelong adventure.

By joining hands with distinguished brands such as adidas, Technogym, Aquafina and Pocari Sweat, we are excited to elevate this celebration to new heights, ensuring that our attendees are left with nothing short of an exciting blend of fitness, music, and wellness that gives them a breath of fresh air”.

“VerveLife is a testament to our commitment to inspire and uplift individuals on their quest for a healthier and happier life. In line with this year ’s theme, “Breathe” we invite everyone to take a soothing deep breath while on this journey of well-being and to embrace life the Verve way.”

To make this year ’s VerveLife event even more memorable, the finale event will culminate in an electrifying evening afterparty concert that will be headlined by Alternate Sound.

For the past six years, the VerveLife event has continued to raise the bar in uniting fitness enthusiasts and wellness seekers across Nigeria under one umbrella. In an effort to extend its message of fitness and well-being beyond Nigeria’s borders, VerveLife has been successfully introduced in the East African countries of Kenya and Uganda, making it a truly pan-African event.

Sanwo-Olu to Flag off Logistics Command 10KM Walk, Jogging Exercise in Lagos Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, will on Saturday, November 4, Lagos State by 6am prompt at the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Ikeja, flag off the 2023 annual 10 Kilometre Walk/Jog Exercise.

This is part of efforts aimed at fostering all round physical fitness of its personnel for enhancement of combat readiness, especially as the nation grapples with insurgency, terrorism and other security challenges.

The routine Military Exercise Walk/Jog will involve participation of all the NAF Units in Lagos area and it will kick off from Headquarters 081 Pay and Accounting Group to ATO Gate, turn right to VIP Lodge Roundabout and make U turn to FAAN Training School Roundabout and back through same route to ATO Field.

Consequently, the general public, particularly motorists and other road users along the aforementioned routes are encouraged not to panic during the exercise, but go about their normal businesses as adequate efforts have been made to minimise disruptions to traffic.

THURSDAY NOVEMBER 2, 2023 • T H I S D AY

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34

THURSday, NOVEMBER 2, 2023 T H I S D AY

business/MOnEYGUIDE

Wema Bank’s PBT Surges by 130% YoY to N21.76bn Kayode Tokede Wema Bank Plc has announced its unaudited results for the third quarter (Q3) ended September 30, 2023, showing an improved third quarter performance.

According to the unaudited results released by the bank, it said it continued its growth trajectory and momentum across all key performance indicators.

The commercial bank reported Profit Before Tax (PBT) that soared to N21.76billion, a 130 per cent year-on-year (y/y) growth over the N9.46billon reported in Q3 2022.

Similarly, Profit after Tax (PAT) also increased by 131 per cent y/y to N18.88billion (from N8.19billion in Q3 2022.

From the profit & loss figures, gross earnings of N150.90 billion, an increase of 61per cent

y/y (Q3 2022: N93.86billion).

Interest Income went up 61 per cent y/y to N126.67billion (Q3 2022: N78.48billion). NonInterest Income also jumped up 58per cent y/y to N24.23billion (Q3 2022: N15.38billion).

Nigeria’s first digital bank, grew its deposit year to date by 42 per cent to N1,650.75billion from N1,165.93billion reported in FY 2022.

Loans and Advances also grew by 27 per cent to N661.30billion in Q3 2023 from N521.43billion in 2022.

Commenting on the result, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Mr. Moruf Oseni said, in a statement said “Our Q3 2023 results saw significant improvements with profit before and after tax growing strongly by about 130per cent & 131 per cent respectively’.

“It has been a good Q3

performance for Wema Bank with gross earnings growing by 61per cent year on year and earnings per share at 199.6 kobo,” said the CFO, Wema Bank, Mr. Tunde Mabawonku in a statement.

In addition, our cost to income ratio at 71.11per cent has witnessed significant improvement from the previous period.

The bank has also commenced its N40billion capital raising exercise with its application to SEC to approve the issue. It has the yearged and consulted several critical shareholders and stakeholders, with a plan to wrap up before year end 2023.

The stock price of Wema bank has gained 579.2 per cent Year-till-Date (YtD) to N4.89 per share as of October 31, 2023 from N0.72 per share it closed for trading this year.

L-R: Managing Director, Tethys Limited,Habib Bello; Manager, Distributor and Export Sales Chevron, Jaap Jan,and Managing Director, Forte Upstream Service Limited, Doyin Ogun, during the relaunch of Texaco Lubricants held in,Lagos...recently

MARKET INDICATORS

Skymark Redeems N3.2bn Series 10, 12 CPs under N10bn Programme Skymark Partners Limited, has announced the maturity and successful redemption of its Series 10 & 12 Commercial Papers (CP) under its N10 billion Commercial Paper Programme.

According to a statement, the N2.31 billion 182-day Series 10 Commercial Paper, which was issued and quoted in May 2022 on the FMDQ Securities Exchange, matured on the October 31, 2023. The N0.91 billion 91-day Series 12 CP was issued in July 2023 and matured on the 5th of October, 2023. In line with existing regulations, the FMDQ Securities Exchange has been informed of the repayments.

Commenting on the suc-

cessful redemption, Mr. Egie Akpata, FCCA, Chairman of Skymark Partners Limited, said, “We are pleased to have fully repaid all the investors in the Series 10 & 12 issuances.

We thank all the institutional investors for their participation and reiterate our commitment to be a counterparty that can be counted on for the long term.”

Furthermore, he stated, “This tenth and twelfth Series CP redemption reflects Skymark’s capacity to meet its financial obligations when due, irrespective of market conditions. We intend to remain an active issuer in the commercial paper market.”

The continued growth trend of revenue and profits in FY 2022

resulted in DataPro affirming Skymark’s long term rating of A and short-term rating of A1. The rating remains valid till June 2024. Unaudited accounts as at September 30, 2023 show strong growth of all key financial metrics of Skymark Partners Limited.

Skymark Partners’ initial N5 billion Commercial Paper Programme was admitted onto the FMDQ Securities Exchange platform in February, 2022. FMDQ approved the Programme increase to N10 billion in September 2023.

Series 1-16 CPs issued under the programme have raised N15.7 billion for working capital financing.

D&B Nigeria Expands With Credit-to-cash, Risk Management Solutions As part of its expansion drive, Dun & Bradstreet has unveiled new products in Nigeria to minimize business risks and maximize opportunities.

The two revolutionary solutions, which are ‘D&B Finance Analytics’ and ‘D&B Risk Analytics’, are aimed at streamlining finance operations and reforming third-party risk management for companies, according to a statement.

“The two flagship artificial intelligence-enabled solutions are powered by the D&B Data Cloud that comprises 520 million+ data records and contains key insights on 340

million+ shareholders,” the statement said.

It said the recently-launched Finance Analytics is a complete credit-to-cash portal that assists businesses in streamlining financial decisions, reducing credit risk, and minimising bad receivables.

“Combining credit intelligence with receivables intelligence, this state-of-the-art product reduces company costs and enhances customer experience through credit automation and smooth cash management,” it added.

It added that the second platform, which is Risk Analytics, helps companies manage regulatory and reputational risks

emanating from their dealings with other companies.

“It monitors and evaluates third party risks through screening, Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance performance, risk scores, and disruption alerts. A key feature of the platform is restricted party screening that detects third-party threats related to anti-money laundering, politically exposed persons, and adverse media coverage,” the company said.

According to the Country Head at Dun & Bradstreet Nigeria, Womo Diriyai, Finance Analytics is for business leaders who want to transform their finance operations.

PAL Pensions Empowers 24 Clients with N176.5 M Mortgage Finance Funmi Ogundare

PAL Pensions has disbursed a total of N176.5 million to 24 valued clients who have chosen to leverage 25 per cent of their pension savings as equity contributions towards residential mortgages, as part of its commitment to ensuring financial empowerment and retirement security.

The achievement underscores the organisation’s dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of its clients and mission to facilitate affordable and

secure housing solutions.

The combined mortgage value for the 24 individuals now stands at an impressive N578,893,600.00, a testament to our unwavering commitment.

The Managing Director, Mr. Sa’adu Jiji, stated that the organisation believes in providing innovative solutions that foster financial stability and overall well-being.

The accomplishment, he noted, aligns with the guidelines set by the National Pension Commission (PenCom) in September 2022,

which grants individuals the opportunity to access their Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA) for equity contributions in residential mortgages.

He expressed delight about reaching this remarkable milestone, saying, “we are thrilled to witness the positive impact of our mortgage finance program on the lives of our clients.”

The substantial payment, he added, reflects PAL Pensions’ unwavering dedication to its customers and mission to enhance financial security and well-being.

MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) August, 2023

Money Supply (M3)

65,445,154.2

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

552,553.58

Money Supply (M2)

64,892,600.61

-- Quasi Money

40,870,301.28

-- Narrow Money (M1)

24,022,299.33

---- Currency Outside Banks

2,295,309.10

---- Demand Deposits

21,726,990.23

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

7,144,158.92

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

58,300,995.27

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

87,273,966.81

---- Credit to Government (Net)

32,511,333.17

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

0.00

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

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

54,762,633.63

--Other Assets Net

13,347,376.27

Reserve Money (Base Money

19,429,603.25

--Currency in Circulation

2,660,138.92

--Banks Reserves --Special Intervention Reserves

16,769,464.34 428,519.21

• Source - CBN

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

August 2023

Inter-Bank Call Rate

3.89

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

18.75

Treasury Bill Rate

5.13

Savings Deposit Rate

5.26

1 Month Deposit Rate

7.31

3 Months Deposit Rate

7.55

6 Months Deposit Rate

8.30

12 Months Deposit Rate

8.13

Prime Lending rate

13.99

Maximum Lending Rate

27.59

• Monetary Policy Rate - 13%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE As At 29th September , 2023

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $97.48 a barrel on Thursday, compared with $97.08 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

T H I S D AY • THURSday, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

35

mARKET NEWS

Notore Records N12.71bn Revenue in Q3 2023

KayodeTokede

Nigeria’s leading chemical and agro-allied company, Notore Chemical Industries Limited, has recorded group year-to-date revenue of N12.71 billion for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023.

In a statement, the Group Managing Director, Notore Plc, Ohis Ohiwerei,

acknowledged the company’s resilience, noting, “While we successfully addressed the gas supply limitation, the impact of earlier challenges lingers in our financial performance.

Notore is diligently working to recover the lost revenues from previous quarters.

“Our dedicated teams are implementing strategic measures to optimize production, reduce costs, and

P R I C E S MaiN Board

F O R DEALS

explore avenues for revenue generation. These efforts and our renewed gas supply provide a solid foundation to navigate the remaining challenges and move towards financial stability.”

Ohiwerei further emphasized, “In the latter part of the third quarter of 2023, we resolved the gas supply limitation and gradually resumed production. I am

S E C U R I T I E S Market Price

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confident in the Company’s steadfast commitment to finding innovative solutions even in the most challenging circumstances, paving the way for growth initiatives in 2024.”

On its outlook, Ohiwerei said: “Looking forward, Notore is concentrating on strategic initiatives to enhance productivity, operational efficiency, and financial resilience.

Addressing domestic priorities,

T R A D E D

value traded ( N )

MaiN Board

A S O F

including ensuring food availability, is integral to Notore’s commitment. As a pivotal player in the fertilizer industry, Notore remains dedicated to ensuring a stable supply chain and supporting the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to boost the agricultural sector, thereby ensuring food security.

“Notore stands resolute as a powerhouse strategi-

cally positioned to harness the boundless opportunities stemming from the surging demand for fertilizers and agricultural products in both the domestic and West African markets. Armed with unwavering determination and a meticulous approach, the company is primed not just to meet but to exceed the escalating food demands of the nation and the entire region.”

N OV E M B E R / 1 / 2 3 DEALS

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023 • T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager.

Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg.

Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 31Oct-2023, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS

AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund N/A N/A N/A Nigeria International Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Dollar Fund N/A N/A N/A AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.77% AIICO Balanced Fund 4.68 4.78 38.97% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@anchoriaam.com Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 0.02% Anchoria Equity Fund 180.67 183.11 24.65% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.23 1.23 -0.10% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com info@anchoriaam.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 29.32 30.20 33.59% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 641.86 661.22 23.14% ARM Ethical Fund 53.15 54.76 17.82% ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 0.00 0.00 -100.00% ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.15 1.15 3.66% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 8.93% ARM Short Term Bond Fund 1.05 1.05 1.77% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com; Tel 08069294653 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 99.18 99.18 9.21% AVA GAM Fixed Income Naira Fund 1,115.75 1,115.75 4.21% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund N/A N/A N/A AXA Mansard Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) N/A N/A N/A CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund N/A N/A N/A CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Paramount Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Women's Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A CHD Nigeria Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A CHD Nigeria Dollar Income Fund N/A N/A N/A CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.95% Cordros Milestone Fund 157.79 158.78 23.01% Cordros Fixed Income Fund 109.55 109.55 9.95% Cordros Halal Fixed Income Fund 110.55 110.55 11.48% Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 113.37 113.37 6.22% CORONATION ASSETS MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com, Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.00 1.00 9.73% Coronation Money Market Fund 1.43 1.44 25.64% Coronation Balanced Fund 1.37 1.37 1.06% Coronation Fixed Income Fund EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A EMERGING AFRICA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@emergingafricafroup.com Web:www.emergingafricagroup.com/emerging-africa-asset-management-limited/, Tel: 08039492594 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Emerging Africa Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.41% Emerging Africa Bond Fund 1.09 1.09 9.47% Emerging Africa Balanced Diversity Fund 1.24 1.24 26.34% Emerging Africa Eurobond Fund 106.32 106.32 5.64% FBNQUEST ASSETS MANAGEMENT LIMITED invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Bond Fund 1517.58 1517.58 11.53% FBN Balanced Fund 252.53 254.82 37.15% FBN Halal Fund 130.89 130.89 12.77% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 9.80% FBN Dollar Fund 0.00 0.00 7.44% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 0.00 0.00 51.80% FBN Specialized Dollar Fund 0.00 0.00 9.42% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.77% Legacy Debt Fund 3.55 3.55 -0.62% Legacy Equity Fund 2.63 2.68 31.48% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.31 1.31 4.39% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Balanced Fund 5,336.98 5,376.21 32.22% Coral Income Fund 3,944.63 3,944.63 7.52% Coral Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 10.77% FSDH Dollar Fund 1.19 1.19 0.00%

GUARANTY TRUST FUND MANAGERS LIMITED enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.gtcoplc.bank; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Guaranty Trust Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Guaranty Trust Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Guaranty Trust Equity Income Fund (VEIF) N/A N/A N/A Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End N/A N/A N/A LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: www.meristemwealth.com/funds/; Tel: +2348028496012 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 16.55 16.69 41.95% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 11.44% NORRENBERGER INVESTMENT AND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LIMITED enquiries@norrenberger.com Web: www.norrenberger.com, Tel: +234 (0) 908 781 2026 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Norrenberger Islamic Fund (NIF) 102.68 102.68 11.79% Norrenberger Money Market Fund (NMMF) 100.00 100.00 11.51% Norrenberger Dollar Fund (NDF) ($) 102.31 102.31 11.86% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.93 1.98 22.97% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.90 12.07 7.11% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 10.95% PACAM Equity Fund 2.50 2.52 75.58% PACAM EuroBond Fund 128.33 131.20 15.11% SCM CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital The Frontier Fund 161.52 166.26 28.49% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.09 1.09 10.04% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 4,673.67 4,711.16 37.87% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 254.93 254.93 8.22% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.91 1.94 52.78% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 347.93 348.05 11.13% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 366.04 370.50 56.73% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.67% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 16,972.37 17,181.02 55.46% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.45 1.45 12.03% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 126.90 126.90 8.55% Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund 124.07 124.07 16.63% Stanbic IBTC Absolute Fund 4,927.19 4,927.19 15.82% Stanbic IBTC Aggressive Fund 4,918.03 4,978.61 76.88% Stanbic IBTC Conservative Fund 5,096.11 5,119.37 33.92% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Equity Fund 1.25 1.26 36.44% United Capital Balanced Fund 1.72 1.73 33.05% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.34 1.35 24.61% United Capital Sukuk Fund 1.16 1.16 11.10% United Capital Fixed Income Fund 1.93 1.93 6.88% United Capital Eurobond Fund 123.23 123.23 5.59% United Capital Global Fixed Income Fund 1.07 1.07 8.36% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.68% Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Balanced Strategy Fund 18.12 18.32 30.74% Zenith ESG Impact Fund 21.56 21.79 36.46% Zenith Income Fund 25.12 25.12 6.65% Zenith Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD funds@vetiva.com Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund 7.05 7.10 74.23% Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund 11.45 11.55 95.15% Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund 24.35 25.10 39.04% Vetiva Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.68% Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund 27.42 27.62 37.03% Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund 147.83 149.83 -6.26%

REITS

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

124.11 55.71 101.33 9.90

9.06% 5.07% -13.31%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

20.19 400.00 460.00 22.06 30.62

22.32 400.00 460.00 22.16 30.72

36.90% 210.75% 356.12% 23.89% 77.57%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

108.40

0.00%

Fund Name

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

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS

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

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

Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

37

THISDAY • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 02, 2023

FOCUS

Wigwe University: Building A Fearless Generation

Obinna Chima

A

ll over the world, education has been recognised as the driver of accelerated and complete development. It is a crucial necessity in everyone’s life. Also, education has been identified as one of the key elements for Africa’s development and in building a prosperous and sustainable future for the continent.

To the Founder of FSDH Merchant Bank, Hakeem Belo-Osagie, an educated mind is a gift to humanity.

“An educated mind from Africa is critical to global transformation. So, what stops the average Africans from reaching their full potential? Fear blocks success.

We must break free from the fear of failure. We have the resources, talents and resilience to transform our continent and it begins with education,” he added.

For a former Chairman of Access Bank Plc, Mrs Ajoritsedere Awosika, “the biggest impediment to a progressive society, is a malnourished mind and the best medicine for a malnourished mind is education.”

According to her, education took her to heights that would have been unimaginable.”

“Fear is probably not your biggest hindrance, but ignorance. But through education, we would conquer fears and transform Africa,” she added.

Also commenting on the importance of education, the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, pointed out that over the last decades, the Dangote Group has grown from a commodity trading company to a diversified conglomerate, due to the quality of its human capital.

“Looking at the success we have accomplished over time; you will think that we have outgrown challenges. But the truth is, challenges evolve and that means that you can’t stop growing. The quality of your growth sometimes is a reflection of the education you have given your mind,” he added.

To a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Muhammad Sanusi, “ignorance is a luxury you cannot afford. A sound education and strive for excellence conquers fear.”

Similarly, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Fabian Ajogwu, noted that to stop learning, “is to standstill and Africa cannot afford to standstill.”

“Knowledge is the difference between Africa in our imagination and the one we currently strive to sustain. Knowledge produces the gap between dreams and reality, knowledge is the antidote to fear,” he added.

However, the Group Managing Director of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, stressed that education makes one fearless and helps in making one to remain focused, unwavering, fixed firmly on the exhilaration of victory, rather than the fear of defeat.

This, he said, was why the Wigwe University is focused on delivering education that cultivates the bold and fearless generation of leaders, innovative

thinkers and entrepreneurial sons and daughters of Africa. The Wigwe University is a beacon of knowledge that would guide the African youth through the realms of academia and profound lessons of existence According to Wigwe, who is the founder of Wigwe University, with mentorship and guidance, the university aims to shape its students into embodiments of fearlessness, “so that one day, they shall proudly declare – we are fearless.”

Wigwe University is the culmination of the foremost banker’s lifelong ambition to build an exceptional, world-class, innovative, yet uniquely African institution to grow the next generation of leaders who will change the face of the African continent.

“It is the African gateway to the world of entrepreneurship, technology, innovation, and impact. Herbert Wigwe’s mission, through Wigwe University, is to change the course of Nigeria’s future through committed and world-class faculty and globally relevant and locally impactful curricula taught through novel methods to rival the globe’s most respected universities.

Wigwe wrote on the University’s website: “I cannot change the world overnight. But if I can empower even one youth today, tomorrow, they could join me in empowering others. With time, we could change the world. The truth is that the end to the good we can achieve is nowhere in sight. There’s so much more to conquer. There are more lives to impact and generations to uplift to achieve their full potential. History will favour the brave, those who knew their limitations only because they had to defy them.

History will favour the fearless.”

On June 9, 2023, the National Universities Commission approved and issued an operational licence to Wigwe University in Isiokpo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The Wigwe University stated that it embodies Nigeria’s resilience, fearless culture, values, and entrepreneurial spirit. The university believes that the world and Africa mostly especially, is in need of problem solvers, torchbearers and game-changers who would form part of its community of learning to create sustainable solutions for the world.

They would have the most conducive environment to do this and to attain their highest potential.

“We are the African spirit of strength in numbers, teamwork, and collaboration.

We symbolise and express the irrepressible human spirit of design thinking. We strive for sustainability and a shared prosperous future for all,” it added.

Wigwe University’s vision is, “to ignite Africa’s potential for prosperity, nurture thoughtful, fearless

leaders, and become the leading university in Africa,” with a mission “to set a new standard of educational distinction for our continent, students and educators, and nurture the next generation of African leaders as guiding lights for positive impact in a rapidly changing world.”

The university sets a new standard of educational distinction for African students and educators. With its distinctively inventive, pragmatic. The university added: “We believe in a balanced, sustainable lifestyle. From time outdoors to working as a sports team to fostering strong understanding and relationships between peers – our sports and societies offer something for everyone to get involved in.”

It stated: “All our programmes are delivered to an international standard in collaboration with key international partners. Our approach puts us in touch with world-leading curricula, joint research and international exchanges and internship programmes.”

Wigwe University’s undergraduate programmes, from degrees to online courses, offer opportunities for all kinds of fearless, inspired, continual learners. The university will start with at least the colleges of art, management and social sciences, engineering, and science and computing.

According to the university, the JAMB portal would be opened for the purchase of registration forms in December 2023. Exact dates would be published (on the university’s website and social media platforms, with appropriate links provided).

Prospective students outside Nigeria can email Wigwe University via info@wigweuniversity. edu.ng to get detailed and requisite information.

Already, Prof. Miles Davis, has been appointed Vice-Chancellor of the soon-to-kick-off ivory tower.

Davis has a PhD in human and organisational sciences from George Washington University, an MA in Human Resource Development from Bowie State University and a BA in Communications from Duquesne University.

He was the inaugural chair of the Management Science Department at the Harry F. Byrd Jr. School of Business at Shenandoah University.

He became the founding director of its Institute for Entrepreneurship, and later, Davis became the dean of the Harry F. Byrd, Jr. School of Business.

Davis is an authority on entrepreneurship whose most recent work focuses on integrity, values and principles in the business world, and faith-based entrepreneurship. He is a member of the Society of Leadership Fellows at St. George’s House (their first non-UK-based member), an organization based out of Windsor Castle in England that brings together world leaders in

a variety of fields to analyze contemporary issues.

Davis sits on the board of the Amana Mutual Fund Trust. Davis is an awardee of numerous bodies.

Most recently, he was named the ‘Portland Business Journal President of the Year’ (the first university president to be so named).

Another personality to keep the institution running is Prof. Nelson Uzoechi-Uzoma Alino, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration/Dean College of Management and Social Science).

Before joining Wigwe University, Alino held the esteemed position of William S. Perlroth, Professor of Accounting and Taxation at Quinnipiac University.

During his last eight years at Quinnipiac, he was the interim associate dean, department chair, and director of the MSA programme. Alino received several awards and nominations for his teaching and research.

His leadership and dedication to innovation were instrumental in achieving a separate AACSB accreditation for the Accounting Program at Quinnipiac University. He is also responsible for initiating the university’s highly acclaimed Volunteer Income Tax (VITA) programme, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the US, a Fellow Chartered Accountant (FCA) in Nigeria, and a Certified Forensic Accountant (CRFAC®️) in the USA. Dal Didia (Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics): Before joining Wigwe University, Didia, a professor of Economics and chair of the Department of Economics, Finance, and General Business at Jackson State University, was also a professor and chair of the Department of Economics, School of Arts and Sciences, American University of Nigeria (AUN) Yola. As chair of the AUN Senate Curriculum Committee, Didia led a comprehensive curriculum revision, adding more programmes while streamlining the curricular development process at AUN. Didia has over 30 years’ experience in academia.

On the other hand, members of its board of trustees are accomplished individuals from diverse fields. They include Awosika, an accomplished administrator with over three decades’ experience in public sector governance; Mosun Belo-Olusoga, former chair of Access Bank Plc, principal consultant/programme director of KRC Limited; Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, Nigerian entrepreneur and businesswoman; Ajogwu, a SAN and the founding partner of Kenna Partners; Dr. Kenneth Ken-Worgu, the chairman and founder of Nortonel Group of Companies. Others are Olumide Soyombo, the founder of LeadPath, a seed capital investment fund dedicated to local tech startupS, and Uche Wigwe, the managing partner of Wigwe and Partners.

It is expected that when it fully becomes operational, the Wigwe University will significantly contribute in addressing the shortfall in human capital in Africa, support the continent’s drive towards societal transformation and ensure a sustainable future.

38

THURSday, NOVEMBER 2, 2023 • T H I S D AY

FOREIGN DESK

Compiled by Bayo Akinloye

China Mounts Military Pressure on Taiwan with Menacing 43 Fighter Jets, 7 Warships Taiwan said Wednesday that China sent 43 military aircraft and seven ships near the self-ruled island, the latest sign that Beijing plans no let-up in its campaign of harassment, threats and intimidation.

Taiwan’s Defense Ministry said the figure was current for the 24 hours up to 6:00 a.m. Wednesday and that 37 of the aircraft had crossed the median line in the Taiwan Strait, which China no longer recognizes as an informal divider between the sides.

It said Taiwan had monitored the situation, scrambled jet fighters, dispatched ships and activated land-based missile systems, all standard responses to Chinese military activities, which include crossing into Taiwan’s air defence identification zone but not into its actual airspace.

Such Chinese manoeuvres have become frequent and aggressive since then- U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan in August 2022. China suspended military communication with the U.S. to show its displeasure over her trip to Taiwan, which Beijing considers part of its territory to be brought under its control by force if necessary.

China’s military manoeuvres are seen as intended to break down Taiwanese morale, exhausting its pilots and other personnel and wearing down its equipment.

Bolivia Severs Ties with Israel, Others Recall Envoys over Gaza

Bolivia said on Tuesday it had broken diplomatic ties with Israel because of its attacks on the Gaza Strip, while neighbours Colombia and Chile recalled their ambassadors to the Middle Eastern country for consultations.

The three South American nations lambasted Israel’s attacks on Gaza and condemned the deaths of Palestinian citizens.

Bolivia “decided to break diplomatic relations with the Israeli state in repudiation and condemnation of the aggressive and disproportionate Israeli military offensive taking place in the Gaza Strip,” Deputy Foreign Minister Freddy Mamani said at a news conference.

The three countries called for a ceasefire, with Bolivia and Chile pushing for the passage of humanitarian aid into the zone and accusing Israel of violating international law.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro called the attacks a “massacre of the Palestinian people” in a post on the social media network X, formerly known as Twitter.

Israel’s foreign ministry says Bolivia’s decision to cut ties is a surrender to terrorism.

Bolivia is among the first countries to actively break diplomatic relations with Israel over its war in Gaza.

Iran, Turkey Call for Meeting to Avert Spread of Israel-Hamas War

Turkey and Iran on Wednesday called for a regional conference aimed at averting the spread of the Israel-Hamas war.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amirabdollahian a day after Iran’s top diplomat met Hamas leaders in Qatar.

Iran has warned that the armed groups it supports in the region could attack Israel in light of its war on Hamas.

Fidan said Turkey was pushing for an immediate ceasefire because “it is not difficult to predict that this spiral of violence will grow” without a permanent solution to the war.

“We do not want the human tragedy in Gaza to turn into a war that affects the region’s countries,” Fidan said.

The Iranian foreign minister “shared with us that there are strong indications that other armed elements in the region may intervene in the conflict if conditions do not change,” Fidan said. “A ceasefire and peace have become more essential.”

Amirabdollahian said a peace conference involving “Muslim and Arab” countries should be held “as soon as possible.”

The Iranian minister later met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara.

King Charles Honours African Veterans in Kenya Visit

On the second day of his state visit to Kenya, Britain’s King Charles honoured Africans who served with British forces during the two world wars before he headed to an urban forest to help highlight the crucial role of green spaces in cities.

Charles and Queen Camilla honoured World War II veterans Wednesday at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission

cemetery in Kariokor. Daniel Achini, the commission’s regional manager for East Africa, called the cemetery “very important to us.”

“The king is here, first and foremost, to honour the sacrifices of the Africans who served with the British forces during World War I and II,” Achini said, “and he’s here to support the non-commemorated project of the War Graves Commission where we are trying to look for records of Africans who served during WWI and commemorate them adequately.”

A few veterans were present, including two said to be 104 and 117 years old, Achini told VOA. The veterans present “served in WWII in various capacities” and “lost their medals in one way or another, so the king will be replacing those medals today,” he said.

Next was a stop at Karura Forest, an urban forest in the heart of Nairobi, to highlight the crucial role of green spaces in cities. Charles was joined by the famous Kenyan marathon runner Eliud Kipchoge.

Together, they flagged off a 15k “Run for Nature” event.

Serbia’s Vucic Dissolves Parliament, Sets Snap Vote for December 17

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic dissolved parliament on Wednesday and called an early election on Dec. 17, aiming to cement his authority as he works out how to normalize ties with Kosovo, the main precondition for EU membership.

The parliamentary election will coincide with local votes in 65 municipalities, including the capital Belgrade.

Experts say the vote and an absence of a working parliament will allow Vucic to buy time and delay decisions over ties with independent and predominantly Albanian Kosovo, which Serbia still sees as its southern province.

“We are living in a time in which it is necessary for all of us to be united in the struggle for vital ... interests of Serbia, in which we will be under numerous pressures, both because of our position on Kosovo, and because of other regional and global issues,” Vucic said after signing the decree.

Myanmar Junta Rains Bombs on Town Bordering China for Second Day

Myanmar ’s military launched a second day of air strikes on Wednesday, bombing territory controlled by an ethnic armed group on the border with China, a rebel spokesman told AFP. The strikes come as the military battles an alliance of armed groups across a northern region that is home to Chinese investment and where the junta says it has lost ground.

A military jet struck a site near the town of Laiza in Kachin state at 12:45

p.m. local time (0615 GMT), Kachin Independence Army (KIA) spokesman Colonel Naw Bu told AFP. He said there were no details yet on casualties from the strike, adding that it came a day after a jet dropped three bombs on Laiza, killing one person and wounding twelve others.

On Tuesday, soldiers and officers were killed when the KIA attempted to seize a major road in Kachin state, according to the junta-controlled Global Light of New Myanmar newspaper.

The military said it had carried out an “appropriate counterattack” without giving details.

The “neighbouring country had been warned in advance”, it said.

In the neighbouring northern Shan state, thousands of people have been reportedly displaced after three other ethnic armed groups launched coordinated attacks on the junta last Friday.

Disease Outbreaks Rise in Sudan as Health System Breaks Down

The World Health Organisation warns that disease outbreaks, malnutrition and non-communicable diseases are rising in war-torn Sudan, with devastating consequences for millions of people forced to flee their homes in the face of escalating violence.

Since conflict erupted April 15, more than 4.6 million people have become newly displaced inside Sudan. The number, added to the more than three million who already were displaced within the country before the current conflict, makes Sudan home to the world’s largest internally displaced crisis.

“The health system in Sudan is stretched to breaking point as capacities decline in the face of mounting needs,” said Ni’ma Saeed Abid, WHO representative in Sudan, speaking Tuesday in Port Sudan.

“Access to health care continues to be limited due to insecurity, displacement, and shortages of medicines and medical supplies, placing millions of Sudanese at risk of severe illness or death from preventable and treatable causes,” he said.

The WHO says 70 to 80 per cent of health facilities are “non-functional in conflict hotspots.” It has verified 60 attacks against health care and personnel, leading to 34 deaths and 38 injuries.

Iran Tells Muslim Nations to Halt Trade with Israel

Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged Muslim countries Wednesday to halt trade with Israel, including oil exports, in response to its bombardment of Gaza since deadly Hamas attacks.

Israel has been pounding the Gaza Strip since Hamas gunmen stormed across the border on October 7 and killed more than 1,400 people, most of them civilians, according to Israeli officials.

The bombing campaign has killed more than 8,500 people, two-thirds of them women and children, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry.

“Islamic governments must insist on quickly ending the crimes,” Khamenei told a gathering of students in Tehran.

“Muslim countries should not cooperate economically with the Zionist regime [Israel],” he said, calling for a “block on oil and food exports.”

Khamenei lambasted Western governments who “stood against Palestine,” naming Britain, France and the United States.

“The Muslim world must not forget who is putting pressure on the population of Gaza. It’s not just about the Zionist regime,” he said.

Defense Minister Mohammad Reza Ashtiani warned “certain European countries which help” Israel to “be careful not to anger Muslims.”

Iran, which supports Hamas financially and militarily, has hailed the militant group’s attack on Israel as a “success” but denied any involvement.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has said Iran sees it as “its duty to support the resistance groups” but insisted that they act independently.

The White House has accused Iran of “actively facilitating” attacks on U.S. forces in the Middle East.

Pakistan Rejects ‘Flawed’ US List of Potential Afghan Resettlers

Pakistan has started rounding up and deporting undocumented foreigners — including 1.7 million Afghan nationals — following a one-month deadline for voluntary departure that expired Wednesday.

Authorities have reported that nearly 250,000 Afghans have returned to their home country voluntarily in the run-up to the November 1 deadline to avoid being arrested and forcibly expelled.

The United Nations and Pakistani officials say those facing deportation include more than 600,000 people who fled Afghanistan after the Islamist Taliban returned to power in August 2021, when the United States and NATO withdrew their troops from the country.

U.S. officials say they are working closely with Pakistani counterparts to ensure the protection of at least 25,000 Afghans who could be eligible for relocation to the United States under a special immigration program for their services during the two-decade-long presence of American forces in Afghanistan.

But a senior Pakistani official said Wednesday that Islamabad had rejected the list because of significant discrepancies.

“The list of 25,000 Afghans was shared with Pakistan just days before the deportation deadline was to expire.

We examined it thoroughly but found it flawed and incomplete,” said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity for not being authorized to discuss the subject publicly.

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NEWS

LAUNCH OF STANDARD CHARTERED BANKING ACADEMY...

L-R: Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce – Nigeria Chapter (ICCN), Olubunmi Osuntuyi; Head of Transaction Banking, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited, Ibiyemi Okuneye; Chairperson, Association of Professional Women Bankers (APWB), Funke Ladimeji, and Ex-Officio Member of the APWB, Yemisi Olajide, at the launch of the Standard Chartered Banking Academy in Lagos… recently

PDP Demands Disbandment of Plateau State’s Election Appeal Court Panel over Varying, Conflicting Judgments Seeks review of judgements, petitions NJC

Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the President of the Court of Appeal to immediately disband the Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel, accusing the panel of bias and compromise.

The party urged the President of the Court of Appeal to constitute a new Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel to hear the remaining Appeals, alleging that the current panel had shown manifest bias to unduly favour the APC candidates.

Addressing a press conference

yesterday in Abuja, the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Debo Ologunagba, said the continued retention of the present Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel would be construed by the people of Plateau State as an act of insensitivity and injustice.

The spokesperson alleged that the manifestly biased and inconsistent judgments of the Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel already delivered in the Appeals should be subjected to judicial review.

According to the PDP, "This frightening pattern by the Plateau

State Election Tribunal Court Panel constitutes a clear present danger to the democratic process, national peace and stability; a bad precedent for judicial mischief and particularly a recipe for anarchy, chaos and breakdown of Law and Order in already tensed Plateau State."

He explained that, "the people of Plateau State are unsettled by allegations in the public domain that the Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel has been hugely compromised and induced by the failed All Progressives Congress (APC) in Plateau State to undermine

the Will of the people by snatching elections clearly won by the PDP and awarding same to the APC as now evidenced in its inexplicable varying judgments on same election context and circumstances."

According to Ologunagba, "What can explain the brazen departure by the Appeal Court Panel from the judicial practice where cases with similar facts and applicable laws, especially before the same court, at the same material time, result in different outcomes?

"Curiously, the Panel in the most concerning pattern reached different

Akwa Ibom Governor, Corporate Organisations, Others Excited Over Editors’ Conference NDIC, Customs, UBA, Access Bank, Dangote rally support for Confab Eno promises to be accountable to Akwa Ibom People

Ogheneuvede Ohwovoriole and Okon Bassey in Uyo Few days to its annual conference in Uyo, the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has said Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, masters of economy and many corporate organisations, like the Nigeria Deposit insurance Corporation (NDIC), Nigeria Customs Service (NSC) and United Bank for Africa have rallied support for the conference.

Other organisations that have also indicated support for the conference, being organised by the professional body of editors in Nigeria, include Zenith Bank, Access Bank, Nigeria Port Authority and the Dangote Group.

In a statement by the NGE President, Eze Anaba and the General Secretary, Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, yesterday, the editors said the huge support from Eno and corporate organisations, was a strong endorsement on the capacity by the NGE to help mobilise all stakeholders in resolving the current economic challenges in the country.

“We are thrilled by the huge support we are receiving from the Governor of the host state, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom and many corporate organisations.

“It is an endorsement of the conceived aim and objective of the conference: to rally all the stakeholders in starting a robust conversation – aimed at resolving the nation’s current economic challenges.

“It is also a testament to the fact that the media has the capacity to mobilise all stakeholders in voicing diverse opinions on good governance reform, helping to build public consensus to bring about change in the society. And facilitate trade, conveying ideas and innovation across boundaries,” the Guild added.

In the conference expected to be declared open by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the NGE said it has invited masters of economy and technocrats from global and local institutions to interrogate the state of Nigeria’s economy, amidst concern over monetary/ fiscal policy, missing gaps, and the role of the media executives/editors in resolving the challenges According to the Guild, the annual conference slated for November 14 to 18, 2023, would also witness the launch of the NGE Media Trust Fund, and interrogate the state of nation’s economy and the missing gaps, with a theme “Stimulating Economic Growth, Technological Advancement: Role of the Media.”

“The conference will also examine the Nigerian media sustainability and the existential threat by the Big Tech, and what needs to be done to arrest it.

“The goal of the conference is to remind editors and media executives that economic actors need accurate, credible, and timely information to allocate resources judiciously.

“Masters of economy, Tech experts and technocrats from both

within and outside country have been invited to examine the burning issues – including the role of the editors in shaping the narrative and stemming the challenges,” the editors stated.

The Guild further explained the conference would also focus on issues around the need for Nigeria to reduce the dependence on oil for exports and revenues, diversify its foreign exchange sources, close the infrastructure gap, build strong

and effective institutions, as well as address governance issues and strengthen public financial management systems.

“Senior security experts and other stakeholders in the oil sector are also expected to examine the impact of illegal oil refinery, illegal bunkering and oil theft, which have continued to threaten the survival of the nation’s economy, and a major threat to Nigeria in meeting its revenue projections,” the editors added.

conclusions with respect to election appeals with the same subject matter, same facts, same circumstances and same applicable laws in bias judgements clearly skewed against the PDP in favour of the APC. “As you are aware, from the votes cast in the 2023 general elections, the PDP recorded a sweeping victory over the APC in Plateau State.

"However, apparently in a mission to assist the APC in its plots to rob our Party of victory, the Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel gave varying and conflicting judgments in Appeals before it despite the clear similarity in facts, circumstances and applicable laws," the PDP spokesman stressed.

He added: "What is more disturbing is that in all the Appeal cases, the court ordered a rerun where the PDP won and the APC came third, while where the APC came second, it ordered that the Certificate of Return issued to the victorious PDP candidate be withdrawn and a new Certificate of Return be issued to the APC candidate, who came second in the election.

"Specifically, in the case of Plateau North Senatorial District won by Sen. Simon Mwadkwon of the PDP and the APC candidate coming third, the Panel in its judgment in Court of Appeal No. CA/J/EP/PL/ SEN/12/2023 delivered on Sunday 22nd October, 2023 curiously annulled PDP’s victory and ordered INEC to conduct a rerun election among all the parties,” he stated.

Giving instances, Ologunagba

said, "In the case of Jos North/ Bassa Federal Constituency won by Hon. Musa Agar of the PDP and where the APC candidate also came third, the Panel in its judgment in Court of Appeal No. CA/J/EP/PL/ HR/14/2023 delivered on Friday 27th October, 2023 annulled the victory of the PDP and ordered a rerun excluding the PDP. "In the third Appeal Case of Shendam/Quaan-Pan/Mikang Federal Constituency, won by Hon. Isaac Kwallu of the PDP with John Dafwan of the APC as runner-up, the Appeal Court Justices in Court of Appeal No. CA/J/EP/PL/ HR/18/2023 annulled the victory of the PDP candidate, declared the APC candidate as outright winner and ordered that the Certificate of Return issued to the victorious PDP candidate be withdrawn and a fresh Certificate of Return issued to the APC candidate," he explained.

Oligunagba, said the Plateau State Election Appeal Court Panel judgements had heightened tension in Plateau State and was capable of triggering a serious crisis as the people believed that the Appeal Panel was on a paid mission to take away the mandate which they freely gave to the PDP candidates at the elections and illegally awarding them to the APC. He said, "These conflicting verdicts by the same Panel of Justices has the consequence to gravely impugn on the integrity of the Appeal Court and the Institution of the Judiciary even as it further appears to lend credence to allegations of inducement by the APC.

Senate Confirms Appointments of AuGF, Seven RECs National Assembly pledges adequate funding for auditor general’s office

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja The Senate yesterday confirmed the appointment of Mr. Shaakaa Chira as the Auditor General for the Federation (AuGF).

Chira's confirmation was sequel to his screening at the Committee of the whole, where he expressed the fears that poor funding of the office could hinder his performance.

The AuGF noted with concern that the 2023 budgetary provision for the office was a meagre N62 million which was grossly inadequate to effectively carry out the agency's activities.

He said, "The major challenge that can hinder our performance is poor funding. For instance, only N62 million was allocated to the

office as capital expenditure in the 2023 Budget.

"I urge the National Assembly to help us look into the matter to enable us to effectively fight corruption before it's manifestation."

The Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, who was the chairman of the Appropriation Committee in the 9th Senate, however blamed the development on the executive arm of government.

Barau said, "The challenge of the poor funding of the Auditor General's Office comes from the executive arm of government and I don't know why it was so.

"I was equally surprised in the last assembly when I discovered that only N62 million was allocated to the Auditor General's Office as

capital vote for the 2023 fiscal year.

"I think the National Assembly now has the responsibility of finding out why the past administrations were depriving the office of adequate funding."

Reacting to his deputy's submission, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the plenary, bemoaned the poor funding of the AuGF office and expressed the confidence that the current administration would change the situation.

Akpabio said, "This is a corrective regime and we would do the needful. The National Assembly has the responsibility to keep the Auditor General's Office alive.

"We should ensure that finance they needed to function effectively

are released to them if we are truly committed to accountability, transparency and anti-corruption wars."

Also at plenary on Wednesday, the Senate confirmed the appointment of seven out of the 10 nominees appointed by President Bola Tinubu as Resident Electoral Commissioners.

Their confirmation was sequel to the consideration of the request of President Bola Tinubu, as presented by the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele.

He explained that the confirmation of the nominees was in accordance with the Provisions of sections 154(1) of the 1999 constitution.

The nominees answered questions relating to their roles in INEC and the nation at large.

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NEWS

China's National Day celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival...

L-R: Deputy Director, Confucius Institute, University of Lagos, Dr. Ade Banwo; Executive Director, Grace School, Mrs. Olatokunbo Edun; Consul General of the people's Republic of China, Ms Yan Yuqing; Chinese Director, Confucius Institute, Professor Zhao Hongling; and Nigerian Director, Confucius Institute, Professor Obi Iwuagwu, during China's National Day celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival in PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT Lagos... recently

Pinnick Petitions Police, Accuses Davido, Logistics Manager of Defamation Wale Igbintade The last has certainly not been heard on the ongoing dispute between the organisers of the annual ‘Warri Again Concert’, and the NigerianAmerican superstar singer, David Adedeji Adeleke, popularly known as Davido as the Chairman of Brownhill Investment Company Limited and its Chairman, Mr. Amaju Pinnick, have petitioned the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, accusing Davido and his Logistics Manager of stealing and defamation respectively.

They had also instituted a N2.3 billion suit before the High Court of Delta State, Effurun, against Davido over alleged breach of agreement/ contract.

The petitioners, in their petitions sighted by THISDAY and written by Osaruyi Ayela-Uwangue from A.O Alegeh & Co, the law firm of the former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Augustine Alegeh (SAN), urged the police to investigate, alleged criminal action of Davido with a view to prosecuting him.

The petitioner said that it discovered that, Davido despite collecting payment of the sum of $94,500, and compelling the organisers of 'Warri Again Concert’ to incur additional expenses of $18,000 for a private jet to take him to Warri, had also collected payment in respect of an event slated for the same date at Lux Nightclub Melbourne, 373 Chapel St South Yarra, Australia.

The petitioner stated that Davido eventually performed at the event in Chapel St South Yarra, Australia, while ignoring ‘Warri Again’ event.

It state: "It's clear that Davido acted criminally in collecting payment for

two events on the same date in two different continents. It is also clear that at the time he obtained the sum of $94,500 from our client under the false pretense of performing at the ‘Warri Again’ event, he actually acted criminally as he had no intention to showing up to perform at the event.

"Davido’s criminal conduct is further confirmed by the following facts: Refusal to respond to Our Client’s Letter of Reminder dated 29th September, 2023. His statement that he will not refund the payment collected from our client. The fact that he has already planned a similar event for Warri in December 2023.

"We humbly request that you use your good offices to investigate, the criminal action of Mr, David Adeleke a.k.a Davido, in respect of his criminal act of defrauding Our Client with a view to prosecuting him for same.”

In another petition written against Davido's Personal Logistics Manager, Mr. Israel Afeare a.k.a Israeldmw, the petitioner alleged that Afeare via his social media handle posted several criminally defamatory and false statements, allegations and narratives against former President of the Nigerian Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Pinnick.

Israel was said to have through false posts alleged that Mr. Pinnick lied about his company fully meeting the contractual obligations and payments to secure Davido’s performance at ‘Warri Again’ event held on October 6, 2023.

He was said to have posted "Where’s the money collected by you from FIFA, to build a befitting stadium for the same Warri people till today.”

The petitioner stated that "The direct/indirect import, meaning and

innuendos of the afore-referenced false and defamatory posts are that our client lied about his company fully meeting the contractual obligations and payments to secure Davido’s performance at ‘Warri Again’ event held on 6th October, 2023.

"That our client is a thief and person of questionable character, who stole money supposedly given

by FIFA to build a stadium in Warri.

"That our client stole billions of naira approved by FIFA to build Escravos Stadium and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should look into him".

The petitioner added that Amaju Pinnick is has been receiving calls from respected Nigerian and international persons since the unwarranted criminal defamation, harassment,

cyber bullying and blackmail by Isrealdmw.

"Our client has been maligned, his reputation damaged and his estimation has been eroded and reduced in the eyes of right thinking members of the society.

"Our client has suffered severe irreparable reputational damage.

Isrealdmw has a large followership of over 770,000 followers on Instagram and is very popular on social media.

"These incendiary and criminally defamatory statements were circulated by Isrealdmw on his Instagram account to his followers who believe and accept all his statements by virtue of his close affiliation to Davido.

"Consequently, these defamatory posts have put the lives of our client and his immediate family in grave danger and threat of physical bodily

harm, injury and attacks, as they have been subjected to all forms of cyber bullying, stalking and harassment since the posts were made.

"They now live in fear of their lives in view of Isrealdmw’s large following and engagements on social media. We write to formally report the criminal conduct of Isrealdmw and humbly request, that you use your good office to investigate and prosecute the criminal actions of Isrealdmw which has now gravely endangered the lives of our client and his immediate family and exposed them to threats of physical bodily harm, injury and attacks".

Efforts to reach the Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin on the issue proved abortive as he busied the call.

He later sent an SMS which

read: "Sorry I can’t take this call right now. For complaints about police action, call 08090277714, 08090277712, 08090277711, 08090277713, 09111111151, 09111991116, 09111111150. Or send a text."

But by the terms of the performance agreement signed with between the petitioner and Davido on March 30, 2023, it was agreed that in the event of a cancellation or postponement due to the willful negligence or intention of the artiste, any deposits paid directly would refunded within 14 days of the event date.

The agreement sighted by THISDAY, also stated that the artiste, in the event of a cancellation or postponement, would be required to pay for every other losses incurred from his actions or inactions.

House Probes Non-implementation of International Cargo Tracking Notes by Nigeria Shippers Council Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate circumstances surrounding the non-implementation of the International Cargo Tracking Notes (ICTN), identify any obstacles or challenges faced by the Nigeria Shippers Council in carrying out its role effectively.

The decision of the House followed the adoption of a motion moved at plenary yesterday, by Hon. Ahmad Muhammad.

Moving the motion, the lawmaker said Nigerian ports handle nearly 60 per cent of Gulf of Guinea cargo,

making it the primary destination in West and Central Africa.

Muhammed, added that the cases of undocumented cargo in seaports posed security and efficiency challenges, perpetuating fraud arising from the concealment of cargo manifests, leading to a lack of reliable data that leads to revenue loss for the nation.

He explained that the Union of African Shippers Councils (UASC) introduced the International Cargo Tracking Notes (ICTN) in 1998, as a measure to enhance the safety and security of supply chain facilities, track the origin and destination of cargo, and provide reliable data on imports and exports.

The lawmaker added that ICTN technology centralises tamper-proof information, improves monitoring, and prevents illegal activities like smuggling and counterfeiting, aligning with World Trade Organisation (WTO) and World Customs Organisation (WCO) recommendations on trade facilitation and security.

Muhammed, expressed concern that the measure had not been fully implemented in Nigeria due to alleged irregularities despite the presence of the Nigeria Shippers Council as the implementing authority, aiming for transparency and efficiency.

He expressed worry that

non-implementation had led to increased cargo-related security challenges, such as smuggling and illicit trade, resulting in significant financial losses costing the country billions of Naira due to the lack of accurate data and revenue leakage.

To this end, the House mandated the, "Committee on Shipping Services and Related Matters to investigate the circumstances surrounding the non-implementation of the International Cargo Tracking Notes (ICTN), identify any obstacles or challenges faced by the Nigeria Shippers Council in carrying out its role effectively, and report back within six weeks for further legislative action."

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

unpaid royalties.

Okafor, regretted that the new crop of musicians failed to see the need to join PMAN, which he said had numerous benefits for them, including resolving contractual issues between musicians and record labels.

He urged musicians, especially the younger ones, to become active members of the association, which he said was a trade union.

“We engage the music managers’ association of Nigeria. We engage the record label association of Nigeria and we also engage the artistes.

“That is why it is difficult to manage the crisis that erupted now.

Some of them believe that PMAN is archaic. Some of them believe that it is only for old people.

“Some of them, the record labels manipulate their psyche not to make them stay under the authority of PMAN that is why this kind of crisis emerged.

“So, if we reach out to the record label association they will need to reach out to their artistes.

“They must be a member of PMAN so that we can protect their interests and also protect the interest of the record label owners because they are supposed to get certification from PMAN.

Osun Govt: Adeleke Acted Legally on Issues Would Have Been Resolved if Dissolution of Statutory Commissions Royalty Mohbad was Our Member, PMAN Declares

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State acted within the requirements of the law in dissolving all statutory commissions almost a year after he assumed office.

The State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, made this clarification.

In reaction to news publications in respect of the dissolution, Hon. Alimi said the governor received the best legal advice before taking the decision, positing that the dissolved commissions suffered legal deficiencies in their making.

According to the Commissioner, the Commissions were set up under "The State of Osun", a platform already declared illegal by a court of competent jurisdiction.

Against this backdrop, Alimi reiterated and also affirmed that the appointments were made under a law that has been nullified by a competent Court which by implication made those beneficiaries lack the expected claim to immunity from dissolution by a governor who is upholding only legal actions of the previous government.

It must also be added that the former governor violated the stipulations of the law in the composition

of some of the boards.

According to him, “The law stipulated the types and manners of persons to be appointed into the commissions. By violating those requirements, the appointments were rendered null and void.

“We can therefore assure all and sundry that the state government does not need tutoring from those who hope to benefit from obvious non-compliance perpetrated by the previous government.

“We call on members of the dissolved commissions to accept the best wishes and commendation of the state governor for their meritorious service to the state.”

The President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Mr. Pretty Okafor, yesterday, said if late musician, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, was its member, controversies surrounding issues of royalties with his former record label, Marlian Records would have been amicably resolved.

He disclosed this when he appeared before the House of Representatives panel probing Mohbad’s death, particularly the allegations of harassment and

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NEWS

COURTESY VISIT BY THE DG DEFENCE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BUREAU...

L-R: Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji receiving plaque from the Director-General, Defence Research and Development Bureau, (DRDB) Major General Emmanuel Ndagi, during the courtesy visit by General to the Minister in Abuja ... yesterday.

Photo: ENOCK REUBEN

House Urges IG to Constitute Crack Team to Unmask Cartel Behind Ritual Killings Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives yesterday called on the Inspector General of Police to set up a crack team to unmask and prosecute the cartels behind ritual killings across the nation.

The resolution of the House followed the adoption of a matter of urgent public importance moved under Order 8 Rule 4 on the need to curb the dangerous trend in the killing of young girls for ritual purposes in Nigeria.

Moving the motion at the plenary,

Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, decried the recent wave and sustained killings of young girls who are mostly undergraduates by their supposed boyfriends, for ritual purposes.

The lawmaker expressed dismay at the recent murder of 20-year-old Miss Justina Otuene, an

undergraduate of the Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt by Damian Okoligwe, a student of the same university.

Abiante also recalled the murder of Augusta Osedion, a final year student of Lead City University in July, 2023 by her boyfriend, Benjamin

Best who goes by the nickname killaboi in Lagos.

He also cited the murder of Miss Oghenefejiro Ochuko, a final year student of Ambrose Ali University who was equally killed in August, 2023 by her boyfriend, Victor Ochonogor in Benin.

DEPOWA President, Others Hail Irabor's Wife for Assisting Nigeria’s Vulnerable Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The President of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Oghogho Musa, wife of late Head of State, Mrs Mariam Abacha, among others, have commended the wife of former Chief of Defence Staff, Mrs Lucky Irabor for her assistance to the poor and vulnerable in Nigeria.

Speaking at a send-off cer-

emony organised in her honour

by DEPOWA at the Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja, the president, who is also the wife of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, said Mrs Irabor's legacy in the area of human capital development was undeniable.

"Today, we pay tribute to a remarkable individual, who has served as a true pillar as president of DEPOWA and has made tremendous

achievements in sustaining the legacies of past DEPOWA presidents.

"Your steadfast commitment and unwavering dedication which nurtured a culture of collaboration and innovation has left an unforgettable imprint in DEPOWA with remarkable successes that have been witnessed within and outside the shores of our dear country", Mrs Musa said.

The Depowa president said her

Africa Magic@ 20: GOtv Supa Customers to Enjoy Supa+ Content from November 1 MultiChoice has announced that customers on the GOtv Supa package can access content on GOtv Supa+ for one month, starting November 1.

The open window, according to the company, is part of customer reward initiatives for Africa Magic’s 20th-anniversary celebrations.

Announcing the open window, Executive Head of Marketing of MultiChoice West Africa, Tope Oshunkeye, said GOtv Supa customers would have an uninterrupted Supa+ experience for one month.

"As part of our Africa Magic 20th anniversary celebration, we're thrilled

to involve our GOtv customers in this memorable occasion. GOtv Supa+ represents our premium package, offering customers exclusive access to top-notch content, including live Premier League matches, La Liga matches, Serie A matches, and other exciting sports events on SuperSport Select 3," said Oshunkeye in a statement issued Tuesday.

Oshunkeye added, "Also, the premium Africa Magic Showcase channel is now available on the Supa+ package, allowing GOtv Supa customers to enjoy the best of Africa Magic's original series

like Slum King, Love and Light, Chronicles, Refuge, and Masquerades of Aniedo throughout November."

The statement also mentioned customers would be able to access movies on Universal Studio (GOtv ch 38) and kids' content on Disney channel (GOtv ch 92).

MultiChoice had earlier announced the opening of the Africa Magic Showcase channel to DStv Compact and GOtv Supa+ subscribers for two months, which started on October 1.

Africa Magic Showcase is exclusive to customers on the DStv Compact Plus, DStv Premium, and DStv Prestige.

Court Discharges, Acquits Chinese Directors of Forging Board's Resolutions Alex Enumah in Abuja Justice Nnamdi Dimgba of a Federal High Court, Abuja, has discharged and acquitted two Chinese - Hao Aijun and Liu Yangxi - and a Nigerian - Obi Anthony Chibuzor who were charged with conspiracy, forgery and fraud.

The office of the Inspector General of Police had arraigned the defendants who are directors of BN Ceramics Industry Nigeria Limited, on a 13-count charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/77/2017. They were specifically accused among others, of forging the company's

board's resolutions.

At their arraignment, they pleaded not guilty, following which trial was conducted, during which the defendants made a no-case submission, which was partially upheld

by Dimgba, leading to the striking out of eight of the 13 counts.

The defendants subsequently entered defence in relation to the remaining five counts, following which Justice Dimgba gave his judgment discharging and acquitting them on the said counts.

Dimgba upheld that arguments by lawyer to Aijun and Yangxi, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN) and counsel

to Chibuzor, Anozie Obi that the prosecution, represented by M. O. Omosun, failed to prove its case.

"From the totality of the evidence given in this case, most especially the testimony of prosecution witness (PW)1, PW2 and PW5 none of their testimony has been able to link the defendants with any act of forgery.

"Even the testimony of the handwriting experts and the reports of their findings, as manifested in Exhibits HA4, HA5, HA11 and HA13, did not link the defendants to the document, the signature of the PW1 said to have been forged," he said.

administration would continue to tap from her experience.

"We shall continue tap from your wealth of experience and I pledge to do my best to add to the society in tandem with the vision of the programme of the First Lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu", she said.

In her remarks, Irabor’s wife said her tenure was marked by remarkable developments inspired by passion for bringing succour to the widows and orphans of the nation’s fallen heroes due to insecurity especially for the vulnerable in the society. "The orphans were trained at the skills acquisition centre”, she said.

She listed some of the achievements during her tenure to include

reaching out to the widows of fallen heroes, establishment of the Armed Forces Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) centre, among others.

Mrs. Irabor said the PTSD Centre project was sponsored by the CDS and service chiefs fully from the beginning to where it was when she handed over to her successor.

She prayed that God will give Mrs. Musa the grace to complete the project "so that we can all come for the commissioning and begin to access the facility for mental health of the military family.

She noted that as she passed the baton, she was confident that the new leadership of will reach even greater heights.

He expressed worry that the killings had almost become a daily occurrence with several other reported cases of missing females with their whereabouts still unknown.

The lawmaker further expressed worry that few of the reported missing victims were often found dead without traces of the perpetrators.

Abiante stressed that the killings take similar patterns of dismembering the bodies of the victims and removal of their vital organs.

He added that the perpetrators of the heinous crimes were young boys who might not be working alone but with strong cartels, while lamenting that young girls have become endangered species.

The lawmaker stressed the need to protect young girls and indeed every Nigerian as enshrined in section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

The House, therefore, called on "the Inspector General of police to set up a crack team to conduct a holistic investigation with the sole aim of unmasking the cartels behind these killings and bringing them to justice."

CDS: There'll Be No Coup in Nigeria Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has assured Nigerians that there would be no military coup in the country, saying the armed forces were ready to protect Nigeria's territorial integrity and ensure that democracy strives.

This was as Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has, urged the military to be professional in order not to truncate the success of the forthcoming off-season election in some selected states of the country.

Musa, who spoke during a visit to the 6 Division, Nigerian Army Port Harcourt, to inaugurate projects, said Nigerians should entertain no fear as members of the armed forces are happy and committed to discharging their jobs professionally.

“I want Nigerians to be assured that the Armed Forces of Nigeria is here for them, we are here to protect them, we are here for democracy and so they should exercise no fear.

"We have had a number of coups in Africa such as Burkina Faso and Niger and there were a lot of apprehension, so we are assuring Nigerians that the armed forces is committed in standing by democracy, that's why the President being the head of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)

is very decisive in decisions taken against coup.

“We assure that nothing like such will happen in Nigeria and that all members of the armed forces are happy," he said.

On insecurity and oil theft in the Niger Delta region, he said the army would leverage on technology to fight the menace. He called on those involved in illegal bunkering and oil theft to stop as the army was out for them.

"The president has approved funds for us to buy enablers to assist us in fighting this menace of crude oil theft and criminality and we are going to leverage a lot on technology and we want to appeal to all those criminals that we are coming after them and so it's good and wise that they should stop. "We are dedicated and committed in restoring peace in the oil sector and we want the crude oil production of Nigeria to grow so that Nigeria can enjoy the dividends of democracy,” Musa said.

On the issue of elections, in Bayelsa, Kogi and Imo States, Musa assured Nigerians that the armed forces would be professional in their conduct and ensure that the elections were free and fair.

He further warned ballot box snatchers and troublemakers to stay away from the elections.

"As you know, three states of Imo, Kogi and Bayelsa will have elections this year and we are also assuring of adequate security. We want it to be free and fair to enable every voter to be able to come out without fear of being intimidated by anyone.

"And to also send a warming to all those used to the old ways of using violence to intimidate people and stealing ballot boxes that those days are gone. Anybody that is caught trying to intimidate anybody or cause any mayhem in any of the three states will have himself to blame", he warned.

Fubara, who hosted the CDS on a courtesy visit to Government House in Port Harcourt, noted that President Bola Tinubu was also interested in a free and fair election in order to allow the will of the electorate to prevail.

He added: "So, I want to thank you for taking the pains going from one state to another having the election in couple of days to put the right things in place. I strongly believe that this off-season election is going to be transparent and one of the best ever conducted."

Fubara, applauded the Army, Navy and Airforce for the various role played, complimenting the Nigerian Police, in helping to ensure security of Rivers State.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 02, 2023 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

Bilateral Matters on the Their Minds...

L-R: Wife of Kebbi State Governor and Founder, Nasara Foundation, Her Excellency, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Nasir Idris and Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency, Shri G. Balasubramanian during a Courtesy visit to the High Commission of India to discuss bilateral issues between Nasara Foundation and the Republic of India in Abuja...on Monday

W e M ust S uc ceed By All Mean s, T i n u b u D ec l a r e s reasons, methods, and timing of tasks assigned.

He stated, “At the end of this retreat, you're going to sign a bond of understanding between you, the ministers, the permanent secretaries, and myself. If you are performing, nothing to fear; if you miss the objective, we’ll review; if there is no performance, you leave us. No one is an island, and the buck stops on my desk.

“I assure you, you have a free hand. You must be intellectually inquisitive to ask how, why, when, and why it must be immediate. You have the responsibility to serve the people.

“I've taken a young lady, very dynamic, Hadiza Balla Usman, to head that delivery unit. If you have any complaints about her, see me.

If you're ready to work with her, stay there. Delivery, yes! We must achieve it for the sake of millions of our people.”

Tinubu explained that the evaluation of officials would be across the eight priority areas of his administration, which include food security, economic growth and development through job creation, and ending poverty Other focus areas include inclusivity: drawing on all skills bass—to prominently feature women and youth in national activities; security—to defend the nation from terror and all forms of criminality; fairness and rule of law—to be impartial and govern according to the constitution and ensure the rule of law; and anticorruption stance—to discourage corruption whilst strengthening the effectiveness and efficiency of various anti-corruption agencies.

Earlier in his welcome address, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, while delivering the context setting, said the retreat presented an opportunity to deepen participants’ understanding of best practices in conducting government business.

Akume noted that the retreat would specifically keep members abreast of essential government matters, procurement, budgeting, and the anti-corruption drive, while exposing the executives to the Federal Executive Council, role of ministers and the permanent secretaries in managing ministries.

He said, “It will also discuss critical enablers for robust management of relationships with stakeholders of government relating to addressing any tasks and expectations the president may highlight and direct.”

In his goodwill message, British High Commissioner in Nigeria, Montgomery, assured Nigeria of the UK’s continued support in the spirit of mutual respect and partnership. He observed that Nigeria, at the moment, was faced with daunting economic, security and social challenges, but applauded Tinubu's reform initiatives

aimed at addressing the challenges.

Montgomery, who affirmed his country’s renewed partnership with Nigeria, pointed out that Nigeria was projected to become the third largest country in the world by 2050.

He said, “Mr. President, I'd like to recognise Nigeria as a growing regional and global powerhouse.

You are likely to become the third largest country in the world by 2050.

I applaud your plans to stabilise the economy and put it on a higher growth path to prosperity, on which so much else depends.

“The UK stands ready to support in the spirit of mutual respect. The UK stands ready to stand up on our partnerships across a range of areas and I wish you and your government all best wishes and goodwill in your work ahead.

“Nigeria faces big security, economic and social challenges. In a global context, the big challenges are difficult global economy, shifting geopolitical and foreign policy pressures and, as I said in public before, I applaud the big and bold economic reforms that you are taking forward.”

The UK High Commissioner also told Tinubu, “I admire your leadership of ECOWAS, your strong voice on democracy, and your G20 international engagement, all of which have thrust Nigeria back onto the international stage.

“I also wanted, Mr. President, to use my goodwill message to confirm the UK’s renewed partnership with Nigeria and with your cabinet and with the Nigerian people. Nigeria really matters to the UK. We share history, we share a commitment to democratic politics, we share interests in defence and security, and trade and investment, which has strong people-to-people needs.”

The high commissioner also applauded Tinubu’s initiatives to enhance economic stability and steer the country towards a more prosperous growth trajectory. He added that the eight priorities of the present administration had provided clarity of purpose.

Montgomery stated, “Your administration inherited big problems, it is a difficult time, people are hurting, expectations are high, better deliveries are desperately needed and with global context.

“Your eight priorities under your Renewed Hope Agenda, you provide clarity of purpose, your policy advisory committee has identified plans, performance indicators.”

In his own goodwill message, World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Shubham Chaudhuri, disclosed that the bank had committed over $11 billion in the past three years for government at both the federal and the sub-national levels.

Chaudhuri assured Tinubu of the bank’s support in his administration’s incredibly important and challenging task of lifting millions of Nigerians

out of poverty and making lives better for everyone. He noted that the country was at a critical juncture, and faced the choice to either continue muddling through business as usual, with the risk of things falling apart, or having the courage to chart a new course, to take bold steps to finally see Nigeria rise to its true potential.

The World Bank Country Director said, “I hope that through what we've been able to do that we will be able to continue supporting you, as you realise this enormously important task.

“Although we are at the World Bank, we're a development organisation and over the last three and a half, four years that I've been here, our board has committed over $11 billion in financing for the government, and our financing is meant to go to government at both the federal and at the sub-national levels.

“So we're here to support your programmes, we take guidance from you. But even though we have the World Bank in our name, I hope you will think of us as more than a bank. I mean, I really hope that

we will be able to earn your trust that we have something more to offer in the nature of solutions to help you think through and then implement the priorities, the focus areas that you've laid out by bringing in ideas and experience.

“Financing is only part of the solution. It's really the ideas and the vision. So you have my commitment.

I and the team, the entire World Bank across the globe, we're here to support you on that.

“I would also like to say that I feel particularly privileged to have been here in Nigeria these last four years, especially in the last few months, at this critical juncture where Nigeria faced critical choice whether to continue muddling through business as usual, with the risk of things falling apart, growing by the day or have the courage to chart a new course, to take bold steps to really finally see Nigeria rise to its true potential.”

Chaudhuri commended Tinubu’s bold steps since assumption of office to chart a new course for Nigeria and provide the renewed hope agenda that he promised the citizens.

Tinubu Seeks National Assembly's Nod to Take $7.8bn, €100m External Loans

Tinubu yesterday urged the National Assembly to approve his request to access $7.8 billion and €100 million external loans as contained in the 2022 – 2024 borrowing plan of the federal government.

The president said the Federal Executive Council under former President Muhammad Buhari had approved the loan facility on May 15, 2023, to finance infrastructure, health, education, agriculture, security and other sectors.

He explained that the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the World Bank Group (WBG) had indicated interest to assist the country in mitigating the economic shocks and effects of recent reforms with a sum of $1 billion and $2 billion, respectively.

Part of the letter read, “The Senate is invited to note that following the removal of fuel subsidy and

its impact on the economy in the country, the AfDB and the WBG have indicated interest to assist the country in mitigating the economic shocks and recent reforms with a sum of $1 billion and $2 billion, respectively, in addition to the Federal Executive Council approved 2022-2024 external borrowing plan.

"Consequently, the required approval is in the sum of $7,864,508,559 and in terms of euro, €100 million."

Tinubu said the foreign loans became necessary in order to bridge the financial gap and return the economic activities of the country to normalcy. He noted that if the loan request was granted, the funds would be used to develop infrastructure, agriculture, health, education, water supply, security and employment, as well as financial management reforms.

He said, “The project cuts across all sectors with specific emphasis on infrastructure, agriculture, health, education, water supply, security and employment as well as financial management reforms, among others.

NLC, TUC, Police Trade Words over Abduction, Brutalisation of Ajaero in Imo “Earlier in the morning, policemen wherever they may be; in the Nigeria in Owerri with Suit No. came to arrest him along with another had tried to disperse workers, who respective industrial unions, the NICN/OW/41/2023, dated 27th senior official of the NLC." THISDAY gathered that the arrest were gathering at the state NLC state councils and the branches, October, 2023, that barred the NLC secretariat, without success. This was to be on alert for an immediate from holding the intended protest of Ajaero might be due to alleged disobedience of an order by the followed, in the usual manner, by nationwide action if by the end of rally in Owerri.

The statement said, "The Com- National Industrial Court restraining thugs who were stationed very close today, the President of the Congress to the secretariat in several Hilux is not released. missioner of Police, Imo State Police NLC and TUC from carrying out “We cannot be at work while Command, CP Mohammed Ahmed any protest in the state. and Toyota trucks.

Meanwhile, the United Action “These thugs were later to unleash our president is in the gulag and Barde, therefore, urges all concerned mayhem on the few workers, who we cannot be at peace when the parties to ensure compliance with Front of Civil Society warned had already gathered, smashing car government of Imo State continues the court directives so as to avoid Uzodinma that no harm must windscreens, delivering machete to disrespect workers and treat them jeopardising the current security ar- befall Ajaero.

Head, National Coordinating cuts on some, stabbing many, and with utter disdain.” rangements on Owerri and other parts They added, “With this statement, of Imo State, even as the state gears Secretariat, United Action Front of inflicting all manners of injuries on the workers. GSM handsets were we want to put the Nigerian govern- up for the forthcoming electioneering Civil Society, Olawale Okunniyi, in a statement issued yesterday, snatched, laptops taken away and ment on notice that we want the process on 11th November 2023," monies were forcefully taken away president of the NLC immediately Some of the workers, who threatened a total shutdown of Abuja by the hoodlums. released. The injuries meted to him sustained injuries during the attack, and Nigeria if Ajaero was harmed.

“As if that damage was not must be treated forthwith and his narrated their experiences to journalists Okunniyi said the Nigerian people enough, the president of the NLC; freedom to lead Nigerian workers at the secretariat of the state council. were being pushed by bandits in Comrade Joe Ajaero, arrived the in a peaceful protest guaranteed.

Speaking to THISDAY shortly power towards mass action.

He stated, "Governor of Imo venue accompanied by few individual “This is what we demand as we after the fracas, Upah said the workers to inspect the carnage and proceed to the meetings of the various police stormed the secretariat and State today shot himself in the leg, to provide the necessary leadership organs to take decisions on further arrested Ajaero in flagrant disregard to as anticipated, by abducting the NLC for the trade union action to continue, steps that will be taken. If this is not locally and internationally recognised President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, the leader of the entire workforce and only to be met by policemen of the heeded now, anything that happens labour laws.

Imo State Police Command, who in the country, the governor of Imo He lamented the action of the masses of Nigeria and will never came in their numbers and in several State and the police commissioner police, which he alleged, allowed no rest again.

"It will, therefore, be in the interest trucks.” must be held responsible. thugs and hoodlums to a field day The unions noted that all they “Nigeria is a country of laws and attacking and maiming innocent of the governor of Imo State that nothing happens to Ajaero in his were asking was for Uzodimma to we, especially the leaders, must learn workers. honour agreements signed between to work within its ambits. The IGP, Addressing journalists on the illegal custody to avoid total shut them and to respect the rights of who is in the state, must call his incident, NLC Deputy General down of Abuja and Nigeria, as the workers in the state. operatives to order to avoid loss of Secretary and Chief of Staff to the Nigerian people are being pushed They stated, “Workers deserve lives, properties and further injuries NLC president, Chris Onyeka, said by bandits in power towards mass their wage and if you are in the on innocent workers in Imo State. he stood with Ajaero when he was action."

The group also condemned in habit of owing workers, you make “Workers in Imo State must be brutalised and arrested. their lives unstable and strip them free and we must all join hands to Onyeka said, "As workers were strongest terms the political crisis in of their humanity. ensure that this happens.” gathering to protest their maltreatment Rivers State. It called on the Minister “These are some of the things we However, Imo State Police by the state government in Owerri, of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have asked Hope to do but to which Command, in its statement signed Imo State, and the president of NLC Nyesom Wike, to desist from foisting he has refused to heed. Instead, he by Police Public Relations Officer, was about addressing the workers, any further rascality on Rivers State believes in the use of intimidation ASP Okoye Henry, on behalf of the the police came, amidst attacks by and to stop his desperate machination to impeach the Rivers State Governor, and violence against the workers Commissioner of Police, argued that thugs, to arrest Ajaero. and the people. there was a court injunction from "Thugs first attacked and dragged Sim Fubara, who only assumed office “We call on Nigerian workers, the National Industrial Court of Ajaero from the platform before police in May this year.

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T H I S D AY • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 02, 2023

NEWS

interpol president visits immigration cG...

L-R: The INTERPOL President, Major General Ahmed Nasser Al Raisi; Acting Comptroller General of Immigration, Caroline Wuraola Adepoju and Vice President, INTERPOL(Africa), AIG Garba Baba Umar, during a courtesy call on the Immigration CG in Abuja... yesterday

Umahi: N18.6trn Needed to Address Road Sector in Four Years Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, has revealed that the sum of N18.6 trillion is required to address the road sector in the next four years.

The Minister maintained the decision of the government to insist on the construction of concrete roads was because it less expensive and more durable.

He stressed that the request for the 2023 supplementary budget became necessary to restore some of the funds removed from the 2022 supplementary appropriation in order to enhance project completion and provide emergency repair works on failed sections roads.

Umahi made this known on

Wednesday when he appeared before the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriation to defend the N300 billion for the Ministry from the N2.17 trillion supplementary budget.

His words: “On the whole, to address our road sector for the four years, we would need about N18.6 trillion and so the National Assembly must have to wear its thinking cap on how we can address seriously our road sector.

"I also appeal to the NASS that the executive need to respect your motions on certain interventions. We must have a contingency fund. When you ask me to go and intervene on certain roads which have collapsed, and I have to liken the situation to a

man on life support. The man needs immediate attention. Where there is an emergency the road is cut and the people are suffering, movement is stopped, it needs an emergency.

So we appeal for contingency to respect your directives on fixing emergency situation."

Umahi stressed that the sum of N300 billion proposed for the Ministry of Works was targeted especially to the highway sectors.

This, he said, is to ensure free flow of traffic on the federal roads network to enhance movement especially as yuletide approaches as well as tackle the problem of insecurity.

Also, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood

Yakubu, who also appeared before the committee to defend N18 billion allocated to the Commission from the supplementary budget said it would be used for personnel

do what is right.

“My conscience is clear. I am not the person you think that you will now go to social media and say all kinds of things. You must be careful, I have the capacity to fight back,” he declared.

"The president is our father, he has spoken we will see where it takes us , but no amount of propaganda.

My conscience is clear nobody can rubbish me. I am not a person you can go to the social media and say all kinds of things and you go free, so be careful I have the capacity to fight back.'

Earlier in his remarks, Bala Mohammed, who is the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, expressed happiness that the crisis in Rivers State had been resolved.

Mohammed, who appreciated Tinubu for appointing Wike as FCT Minister, said the swiftness of the resolution, showed the importance of the state as an economic enclave.

He said Wike’s antecedents as former Rivers State governor made him meritorious of the appointment.

THISDAY had reported that moves by 24 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to impeach the State Governor resulted in turbulence in the State on Monday, as the governor’s loyalists stormed the assembly complex in protest against the plot.

The PDP Governors’ Forum in a statement by its Director-General, Cyril Maduabum, disclosed that the decision to visit Wike was reached at the forum’s meeting on Tuesday.

Maduabum explained that the visit was for reconciliation and mediation purposes.

The governors arrived Wike''s office at 12.30 pm.

Before arriving the Minister's office, the PDP Governors had a meeting at the Rivers state governor's lodge in Asokoro before heading to area eleven.

Meanwhile, inside details of the face-off between Wike and Fubara emerged as one of the media aides of the former governor while in office

traced the crisis to what could be described as the quiet role of the penultimate governor of Rivers State, Mr Rotimi Amaechi in the evolving feud between Governor Simi Fubara and his immediate predecessor and godfather, Nyesom Wike has emerged.

Opunabo Inko-Tariah who served as media aide to Wike while governor of Rivers State revealed what he disclosed as the Amaechi factor on Wednesday morning as he also traced the crisis to the appointment of five new commissioners by Fabura without the approval of Wike.

Speaking on a television programme, Wednesday, monitored in Abuja, Inko-Tariah disclosed that Governor Fabura’s decision to restart the Songhai Farms initiated

by Amaechi while governor but abandoned by Wike was a primary reason for the faceoff between the incumbent and preceding governors of the state.

Also speaking on Fabura’s decision to appoint new commissioners without Wike’s approval, he said: “We also talk of the appointment of commissioners, about five of them, without getting clearance and the former governor was angry, how will you appoint commissioners without getting clearance. This was just the climax,” he said.

Meanwhile, traditional rulers, Ijaw elders and groups have call for peaceful and amicable settlement of the political crisis in Rivers State.

Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council and Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom in Yenagoa Local government area, His Royal Majesty King Bubaraye Dakolo, the Second Vice President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Chief Nengi James and other Ijaw groups including the Citizens for for the Sustainable Development of the Niger Delta (CSDND) and Ijaw National Development Group (INDG) all agreed that the warring factions in the crisis must come to an amicable and peaceful agreement for the sake of the people.

billion to augment the conduct of elections in Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo N1.6 billion for the conduct of 11 by-elections for the national and State Assemblies.

FG Canvasses Full Implementation of Financial Inclusion in MDAs Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The federal government has expressed its determination for full implementation of financial inclusion in all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

C o u rt R e st r ai n s Ri v e r s Ass e m b ly f r o m I m p e achi n g F u b a r a in Rivers State, warning that he does not lack the capacity to fight back.

He also dismissed outright the imputation that the crisis between him and Fubara was motivated by his alleged interest in the monies belonging to Rivers state, stressing that nobody could take away from him the political structure in the state.

“Nobody can intimidate me. If I want to do something, I will do it.

Impeachment is not a military coup; it is provided under the constitution.

“I am not interested in all the rumours, money, this, and that.

Rubbish. Absolute rubbish. I just left office how many months ago.

And I'm FCT Minister, so which money?

“According to the FCT minister, "I hear they said I gave a limit of what he can do, I want 25 percent, these are ridiculous. I am not a political ingrate, but don't touch the political structure in Rivers state, I will not shut my eyes.

“Nobody can take away our political structure. No one. You cannot work and people will begin to bring enemies, those who fought you when you were struggling for the person to be in office. Nobody does that. I'm not a political ingrate, but don't touch the political structure of the state. I will not shut my eyes.”

Wike warned.

The minister also vowed to continue to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, adding his conscience was clear in the discharge of his duties as FCT Minister.

He said the President’s vision was to appoint someone who would get the job done.

“Forget about the Obidients and the Atikus who have lost, and who felt that I did not support them.

And those whom I revoked their C of Os. “Oh Wike did this, Wike did that because I didn't support Obi, I didn't support their own presidential candidate, and all of you just teamed up 'Wike, Wike, Wike'. All those things, I am not perturbed, I will

emoluments and the conduct of the off-cycle governorship elections in Bayelsa, Kogi and Imo States.

He said the sum of N13.8 billion was for personnel emoluments, N1.4

The Citizens for the Sustainable Development of the Niger Delta (CSDND) through its National Coordinator, Chief James Okpara, said: “It is too early for political actors to engage in show of strength and ego clash that will throw the state into chaos.”

He called on elders and political leaders from the state including Wike, to rise and intervene to put an immediate stop to the crisis rocking the state" The INDG, also known as the Ijaw People's Assembly (IPA) also called on political actors in Rivers State to consider the people before any action against the elected Governor of the State.

The Chairman of Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council and Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom in Yenagoa LG , King Bubaraye Dakolo, called on the warring factions to sheathe their swords in the interest of the people.

"The warring party should sheath their swords, that is what they need to do. I think when fight like this is happening, everyone should know that they are their to serve the people. And services to the people is paramount. It doesn’t matter what oath you take, or what agreement you had with individuals or group.

As long as those agreements are not to serve the people.it’s illegal.

"So Governor or whoever that is wrestling with him, must know that the people of River State come first before any individual so the service and the direction of this settlements must be victorious, maximum service of the people of Rivers State.

“The governor of River state must ensure that the state is peaceful and in fact he does what will bring service to the people.”

He called on President Bola Tinubu to prevail on the Nigerian Police and other security agencies to do the right thing in Rivers State, Also speaking, the Second Vice President of INC, Chief Nengi James also called on Rivers People to be calm and support Fubara.

The Director, Economic Research and Policy Management (ERPM), Federal Ministry of Finance, Grace Ogbonna, stated this in Abuja while declaring open a three-day training programme for Federal Ministry of Finance Staff Batch 2, on the "Service-Wide Financial Literacy in the Workplace Programme on Financial Inclusion."

The Director, (Press & Public Relations) in the ministry, Mr. Stephen Kilebi, quoted Ogbonna as saying that financial inclusion around the world has continued to gain attention globally because of the important role it plays in economic development and poverty alleviation.

Ogbonna noted that in pursuance of the realisation of the foregoing and the fact that a significant number

of Nigeria's public employees have poor knowledge of financial inclusion, the ministry felt the need to launch an awareness campaign that would holistically build the capacity of public sector workforce on financial literacy.

She stated: "The focus is to empower workers and equip them to be financially savy so as make decisions and exercise discipline in managing their personal finances which would encourage a national saving habit, smart investment and planned retirement for workers in the public sector."

The ERPM Director implored participants at the workshop to take advantage of the training very seriously, stressing that the training would add value to them, families and workplaces.

Group Tackles Sylva over Comments on Nembe-Brass Road Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Network of Bayelsa Professionals (NBP), yesterday took on the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the November 11, governorship election in the state, Chief Timipre Sylva, over his comment on the Nembe-Brass road, under construction by the Senator Douye Diri-led administration.

The group, faulted the former governor for being silent on the efforts by the current administration at linking the community with other parts of the state by road.

Sylva, while appearing on a Channels TV programme, Politics Today on Tuesday, alluded to the difficult terrain in constructing critical projects in the state but failed to mention the efforts of the Diri administration in that regard, especially the multi billion naira Nembe/Brass road.

Reacting, the Bayelsa professionals in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Wednesday, described Sylva's action as the height of mischief.

The statement signed by the group's spokesman, Mr. Deinmobofa Tantua read in part: "Sylva, while making reference to the difficult terrain of Bayelsa state which affects rapid development in terms of constructing critical infrastructure,

said he doesn't have a road to his place. And that he had to travel 1 hour 30mins by boat each time he visits his community.

"At that point, one would have expected him to tell the world that in no distant time he would drive to his village because of the ongoing construction of the Nembe-Brass road, ambitiously being undertaken by the Prosperity Administration of Governor Douye Diri. But in outright mischief he did not. We see this as unfortunate for a man seeking the votes of his people.

"Perhaps it was because of shame that he did not. It is the same road he was alleged to have said is not economically viable and that was why he couldn't for five years as governor make any attempt to construct it.

"In the spirit of patriotism and being a statesman that he ought to be, one would have expected Sylva not to be flippant. It is because of this attitude that we decided as group to stand by Diri because indeed Diri is better in all ramifications".

The group claimed that the construction of the Nembe-Brass road would enhance the economy of the state and create access to the Atlantic Ocean for the state to harness its abundant natural resources.

44

GamingWeek

Thursday, November 2, 2023 • T H I S D AY

Edited by Nseobong Okon-Ekong | ikotibok@gmail.com | Tel: 08114495324

Tech, Jurisdiction in Focus at Second NLRC’s International Gaming Conference TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

Speakers at the 2023 National Lottery Regulatory Commission International Gaming Conference examine prevailing trends shaping the sports betting sector, writes Ikenna Bede

T

he COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on various sectors worldwide.

In Nigeria, the sports betting sector was no exception. Subsequently, there was an adoption of technology-driven innovation to meet post-pandemic consumer demands. This adaptation for survival resulted in impressive growth, leading to an increased number of gaming operators and an estimated 60 million punters in 2020.

A seismic transition from traditional physical betting to online platforms not only upheld the industry but also ignited remarkable growth. Nonetheless, this shift has inadvertently paved the way for illegal gaming operations, intensified issues with underage betting and gambling addiction, generated friction in tax revenue collection between state and national regulatory bodies, and raised significant concerns about cybersecurity, all of which have hindered the industry’s advancement.

Last year, the World Lottery Association reported an estimated $1.8 trillion loss to illegal lottery operations globally. In 2019, the Director-General of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), Lanre Gbajabiamila, disclosed that Nigeria lost billions of naira to the same practices, with a substantial amount going to “good

causes.” These issues and many more birthed by tech advancement informed this year’s theme of the NLRC biennial International Gaming Conference (IGC).

Staged this year at the Convention Centre of the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos across two days between October 31 and November 1, under the theme ‘Innovation and Disruption: Core Strategies for Success,’ the convener examined prevailing trends shaping the sports betting sector.

Chief Executive Officer of the National Lottery Trust Fund, Dr. Bello Maigari, in his goodwill message, underscored the pivotal role of technology in advancing Nigeria’s lottery and gaming industry. He emphasised that by embracing technology platforms that offer transparent data analytics through international collaborations, the government could enhance tax revenue generation from this sector, potentially reaching levels comparable to Germany’s 90 per cent tax contribution. He believes this to be the springboard with which to strengthen the existing efforts of the commission.

“Nigeria, which is not only distinguished by its size but also by its cultural and social complexities, presents a challenging regulatory environment. Adding to this is the overarching regulatory framework where each state in the country can control gaming and betting activities

From left, Perm. Sec. Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Mrs. Ibiene Roberts; Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Hon. Zaphaniah Jisalo; Director General, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila OON; Guest Speaker, Dr. Rachel Volberg of University of Massachusetts Amherst, USA; Deputy Director General, National Lottery Authority, Ghana, Anna Miezah at the opening session of a 2-Day International Gaming Conference 2023 held at Eko Hotel, VI, Lagos, Tuesday inside its borders. This presents a challenging scenario for the NLRC,” Maigari stated, emphasising the importance of acknowledging the sector’s transformative potential to outgrow these regulatory challenges

and pave the way for sustainable growth and innovation in the industry.

Expanding on the role that technology has played in the sector’s growth, Gbajabiamila pointed out the dichotomy that exists between

Players having fun at the BetWinner Fiesta

The Rise of Sports Betting Sponsorships in Football Davidson Abraham writes that in recent years, the relationship between football and gambling has become even closer The rise of sports betting sponsorships in football has been meteoric in recent years.

In the English Premier League, for example, half of the clubs have a gambling sponsor on their shirt, and the proportion rises to 17 out of 24 among clubs in the Championship.

There are a number of factors that have contributed to this trend.

First, the global sports betting industry is worth billions of dollars, and companies are increasingly looking to invest in sponsorship deals to reach new customers and grow their brands. Second, football is one of the most popular sports in the world, with a global audience of billions of people.

This makes it an ideal platform for betting companies to market

their products and services. Third, the rise of online betting has made it easier than ever for people to place bets on football matches.

This has led to an increase in the number of people betting on football, and betting companies are keen to capitalize on this trend by sponsoring football clubs and competitions.

The relationship between football and gambling is long-standing. For many years, football clubs have been sponsored by gambling companies, and gambling companies have advertised in football matches. However, in recent years, the relationship between football and gambling has become even closer. For example, many football clubs now have their own betting platforms, and gambling

companies offer odds on a wide range of football markets, such as match results, first goalscorer, and number of corners.

The rise of sports betting sponsorships has had a number of positive and negative effects on football. On the positive side, it has provided a significant source of revenue for football clubs, which has helped them to invest in their infrastructure and squad development. It has also helped to promote football to a global audience, which can lead to increased sponsorship revenue and ticket sales for football clubs, as well as increased popularity for the sport as a whole.

On the negative side, there are concerns that the overexposure of gambling in football can normalize

gambling and encourage people to gamble more than they can afford. There are also concerns that sports betting sponsorships are targeting vulnerable groups, such as young people and people with gambling problems.

Additionally, there is a risk that these sponsorships could influence the integrity of the sport. The rise of sports betting sponsorships in football is a complex issue with positive and negative effects. It is important to be aware of the potential negative effects and to take steps to mitigate them.

For example, governments can introduce regulations to limit the amount of gambling advertising allowed, and football clubs can work with betting sponsors to promote responsible betting.

ADVISORY: +18 PERSONS UNDER 18 MUST NOT PARTICIPATE IN BETTING, GAMING OR LOTTERY ACTIVITY

the national and state regulatory bodies. He urged both entities to strive for uniformity in tax revenue collection.

“Technology has fundamentally reshaped how we perceive and engage in the gaming industry.

This transformation has brought challenges and opportunities, making it increasingly complex for any state to assert complete regulatory control, especially in light of the growing prevalence of online and remote gaming operators,” Gbajabiamila explained.

He added, “We are at the pivotal juncture, standing at the crossroads of traditional gaming and the rapid evolution of the digital realm. The task of regulating remote gaming has become more intricate than ever before. This digital era has a higher appeal than the traditional instrument employed in the gaming industry, demanding a comprehensive re-evaluation of the regulatory framework and strategies. Amid this transformation, the commitment to address these emerging challenges remains unwavering.

“In light of this, regulatory bodies and stakeholders must adapt to this new landscape to ensure the continued integrity and security of the gaming industry. This adaptability is essential to maintaining public trust and fostering an environment where participants can enjoy gaming without concerns about fraud, money laundering or illicit activity.

Uniformity is key for success and growth.”

Despite the upward trajectory of the sports gaming industry, it continues to face disapproval in

Nigeria and across Africa due to deeply rooted sociocultural and religious belief systems. In discussing the impact of education in enlightening the public about the sector’s revenue-generation potential, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs Patricia Ibiene highlighted this issue. She urged stakeholders to prioritise information dissemination to urban and rural areas.

Another aspect Ibiene spotlighted was the role of “good causes.”

According to a 2022 report of the WLA, $92 billion in lottery proceeds were channelled to social initiatives.

Ibiene believes that increased activity in the sector will bring about increased revenue generation that directly converts to proceeds for “good causes.”

Acknowledging the strides of the NLRC, National Lottery Authority (NLA), Deputy Director-General Anna Miezah, who represented the NLA Ghana boss, Sam Awuku, gave an overview of the gaming landscape in Ghana, disclosing how a “good cause” initiative was set up to provide education, health, youth and sports development, and promote arts and culture in vulnerable communities.

“Touching more than 350,000 lives, we started this in 2021, and so far, this is how much we have done.

The NLA invests in these projects to fulfil a statutory obligation, which is to give back to communities we operate,” Miezah noted.

GAMINGWEEK TEAM Nseobong Okon-Ekong ikotibok@gmail.com | 08114495324 Iyke Bede ikennabede@gmail.com | 0703 044 7714 Akeem Lasisi lasaisai@yahoo.com | 08023687884 Vanessa Obioha vaysylver@gmail.com | 08069838305 Davidson Abraham davisiano.adm@gmail.com | +971 56 744 6013

thursday november 2, 2023 • T H i s d ay

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NEWS

TRAVELWINGS OPENS LEKKI OFFICE...

L-R: Nollywood Actor, Yomi Casual; Chief Commercial Officer, Travelwings, Aman Singh; Nollywood Actress, Ini Edo; Chief Business Development Officer, Africa, Travelwings, Sean Bradley, and Station Manager, Ghana and Nigeria, Travelwings, Neeraj Bathija, when the company opened its Lekki office in Lagos…recently

We Need Security, Not Eviction from Cattle Market, Northern Community Tells Otti

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The northern community in the Umuchieze cattle market in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State has rejected the eviction order issued by the state government, saying instead, they should be provided with adequate security and be allowed to live inside the market.

The government had asked

the traders to find alternative accommodations outside the market as part of measures to checkmate the insecurity associated with the cattle market.

In a statement read to journalists by their spokesman, Mallam Buba Abdullahi Kedemure, at a press conference yesterday, the community also said the plan to fence the market on the 80 hectares of land “will not work.”

EFCC Bans Sting Operations at Night The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has directed that sting operations at night time be stopped in all commands in line with the newly-reviewed procedures on arrest and bail of suspects by the commission.

The Head, Media and Publicity of the commission, Mr.Dele Oyewale, said in a statement that the EFCC chairman gave the directive in Abuja yesterday in reaction to the arrest of 69

suspected internet fraudsters by operatives of the Ibadan Zonal of the commission in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

“Already, many of the suspects duly profiled by the command have been released, while profiling of suspects yet un-released will be completed, without further delay. The commission wishes to assure the public that it will not relent in its adherence to the rule of law, in the exercise of its mandate,” Oyewale said.

Nigeria to Host Agric Machines, Equipment, Technology Expo

Sunday Okobi

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in collaboration with the CBNetwork Global Concept and other major stakeholders has concluded plans to host the world at the Africa Agricultural Machines Equipment and Technology Expo (AAMETEX) in Abuja from November 21 to 24, 2023.

The Director, Federal Development of Agriculture and Food Security, A.G Abubakar, during the inaugural brainstorming session with other stakeholders in the sector and government agencies, emphasised on the need

for a switch to modern agriculture and innovation in order to ensure food and nutrition security.

He said Aametex 2023, with the theme: ‘Transforming Africa’s Agriculture through Technology and Innovation’ is designed to be a forum to highlight and promote the numerous investment opportunities in the Africa’s agriculture and agribusiness ecosystems through design and development of innovative agricultural equipment, machinery and technologies in the light of Africa’s economic diversification agenda and the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) initiative.

emerged a prominent winner at the Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards 2023 organised by BusinessDay Newspaper. STL Trustees Limited, was recognised for its exceptional achievements with two awards.

For the sixth consecutive time, STL Trustees has been honoured with the “Trustees Company of the Year” award. Also, Managing Director of STL Trustees, Funmi Ekundayo, was also honoured with the “Trustees Company CEO of the Year” award for the second consecutive time.

According to the company, this recurring recognition underlines its consistency in delivering unmatched

It solidifies the organisation’s standing as an industry leader, setting the standard for Trusteeship in the country’s financial service space.

Onthe CEO’saward,thecompany said the recognition is a testament to her leadership prowess, which has been pivotal in propelling STLTrustees to new heights and consistently exceeding industry standards.

Commenting, Ekundayo expressed her gratitude upon receiving the prestigious awards, saying:“We are deeply honoured by these awards, they serve as a testament to the dedication and tireless efforts of our entire team at STL Trustees.

Kedemure said asking them to live outside the cattle market, which they have occupied since 2005, translates to asking them

to leave Abia State, as it was not practicable for the 15,000 members of the Northern community to live among the

natives.

According to him, “If the government will fence the market, demolish our houses,

urge us to go and live in the neighbouring villages, it means the government has automatically chased us away from Abia State.

NSCDC Arrests Seven Suspected Electrical Cables Vandals in Kwara

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Operatives of the Kwara state command of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps(NSCDC) have arrested seven suspected persons for the alleged theft and vandalism of electrical cables in the state.

Parading the affected suspects in Ilorin yesterday, the State Commandant of the NSCDC, Mr. Umar Mohammed, said that the suspects were arrested after their involvement in the stealing of electrical cables at Jalala Quarters of University of Ilorin (Unilorin).

He said: “The suspects were caught with vandalised electrical cables and were arrested by the security patrol. The suspect led the patrol to the scrab dealers spot at Oke Odo area where the other five suspects were apprehended”.

Umar decried the rate at which the government facilities

are being vandalized, adding that such situation is alarming and disturbing.

He said almost all our cities and towns, public facilities, which are provided by government are being vandalised by unscrupulous people as soon they have been installed.

Report: Africa Offers Hotel Chains Opportunities to Exploit Dike Onwuamaeze

The Managing Director of the W Hospitality Group (WHG), Mr. Trevor J. Ward, whose hotel chain development pipelines in Africa has recorded 482 hotels with 84,427 rooms, has declared that there are

many opportunities for the hotel chains and their owners to exploit in Africa.

The WHG is the parent company of the Radisson Hotel Group and other leading hospitality brands, which specialises in the hotel, tourism and leisure industries

in Africa and is providing a full range of services to clients who have investments in the sector, or who are looking to enter them, through development, acquisition or other means.

This declaration is contained in the WHG’s report titled, “2023

Hotel Chain Development Pipelines in Africa,” which divided Africa into two main regions, i.e. North Africa that covered only five countries – Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt) and the Sub-Saharan Africa that covered 49 countries, including the Indian Ocean islands).

Chief Emeka Anyaoku Lecture Series on Good Governance held ìn Uyo, with the theme “Imperatives of Good Governance In Nigeria.”

The governor, who was the guest speaker, identified accountability as a template for good governance, noting that he

was committed to the delivery of democratic dividends to the people.

He told the participants that he has mandated commissioners and heads of agencies to brief the public on activities of their department to keep the 7.9 million residents of the state abreast with

activities of their offices.

Accòrding to the governor, as he is being accountable to the people, “I want my commissioners to begin to step out and say the things they are doing in their ministries. Let the people hear.

Let them talk about the ministry that they are in charge.”

Eno: Accountability My Focus in the Governance of A’Ibom Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Umo Eno, has said that accountability is his focus in the governance of the state as he only holds the position in trust for the governed.

Governor Eno spoke at the

Enugu Community Seeks Devt at Maiden National Conference

GideonArinzeinEnugu

The people of Agunese Mmaku, a community in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State have resolved to find lasting solutions to the social and economic challenges that have held the community down over the years.

This was part of resolutions reached at the maiden national conference organised by sons and daughters of the community with the theme: “Governance and Policy, Shaping the Future of Agunese Community.”

Speaking during the conference which held in Enugu, the President General of Agunese Mmaku

Development Union, (AMDU) Simeon Okike, said that it provides the people with an opportunity to evaluate the past and chat the way for the future and development of the community.

“This conference aims to bring all shades of options through the 6 villages, 7 branches with experienced

professionalsandacademicsandreach common grounds on the issues as soon as possible,” he said.

Speaking further, he said: “Gatherings such as this is where we can address issues like the state of our roads, education and security and how much of a challenge they pose to our people,” Okike said.

Club, to boost social activities in the Rivers State capital, Port Harcourt.

Ogbuku stated this when members of the executive of the club paid him a courtesy visit in his office at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt.

The NDDC CEO said the

commission was open to a sustainable relationship that would bring back the past glory of Port Harcourt city, stressing that the older generation will be proud that in their time the social life in the Garden City was revived.

Ogbuku recalled with

nostalgia the serene atmosphere created by the older generation, insisting that such beautiful scenery would be revived to keep the old memories alive.

According to him “the present generation would not allow social activities in the city to stagnate or retrogress.”

NDDC, Port Harcourt Club Collaborate to Boost Social Activities in Rivers Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

STL Trustees Win Two Awards Managing Director of the STL Trustees Limited has, once again, Trust services to its clients.

Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku, has expressed the commission’s readiness to partner with Port Harcourt

BUA to Inaugurate New Plant in Sokoto January, 2024, Says Rabiu

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

The Chairman of BUA Group, one of the leading giant cement company in Africa, Abdulsamad Rabiu, said the company is set to inaugurate a new plant in Sokoto come January, 2024.

He made the disclosure yesterday on a courtesy call

on Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State.

He congratulated the governor on his recent electoral success and assured him of total support.

He further disclosed that the company is working tirelessly to ensure that the new line under construction in the state will be inaugurated by January, 2024.

He said: “Your Excellency, it will interest you to know that I was in Abuja yesterday where I have opportunity to meet Mr President. And informed Mr President of the company’s plan to inaugurate our new plant currently under construction in Sokoto by January 2024”.

“I told him that the

management will be glad to have him as a special guest to inaugurate the plant. “ BUA Cement Company in Sokoto still remains the biggest private business with more workforce in the whole of Northwest, and this is because of the enabling environment we enjoyed here in Sokoto.

46

thursday november 2, 2023 • T H I S D AY

NEWSxtra

STL Trustees wins AWARDs...

L-R: Head, Accounts and Operations, STL Trustees Limited, Oko Mba; Head, Trust Services/Legal, STL Trustees Limited, Akin Oni; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, STL Trustees Limited, Funmi Ekundayo; Managing Director, STL Asset Management Limited, Ahmed Olaitan Banu, and Head, Marketing/Business Development, STL Trustees Limited, Sade Ademokunwa, receiving the award as Trustees Company of the Year at the Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards 2023 organised by Businessday in Lagos… recently

House Urges Military to Foster International Cooperation in Tackling Terrorism Calls on FG to halt brain The drain Chairman of the House budget defence.

Adedayo Akinwale and Juliet Akoje inAbuja

The House of Representatives yesterday called on the military hierarchy to foster international cooperation in order to collectively address transnational challenges such as terrorism, climate change,

and the proliferation of small arms and weapons.

Similarly, the House urged the federal government to engage relevant stakeholders in formulation of appropriate policies to motivate Nigerian graduates to remain and work in Nigeria after acquiring training and development.

Kogi APC Berates SDP over Terrorism Claims Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The Kogi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused the Social Democratic Party (SDP) of raising false alarm over terrorism claim.

This was contained in a statement signed by Femi Fanwo, spokesman/director of Media and Publicity, Kogi State APC Campaign Council, and made available to journalists in Lokoja yesterday.

It said: “Our attention has been drawn to a spurious allegation by the discredited merchant of falsehood in

Kogi State politics, the Social Democratic Party, to the effect that the state Governor, Yahaya Bello, is planning to arrest SDP leaders over frame-up charges of terrorism. This is another tempo of falsehood from the bottle-size overambitious group.

“Terrorism is a very serious national issue that shouldn’t be ordinarily trivialised by any group no matter how confused.

But the SDP would stop at nothing to push their noses in front as serious contenders when they know they stand no chance whatsoever in the forthcoming governorship election.

Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Hon. Ahmad Satomi disclosed this during

He said it was imperative that to acknowledge the unique challenges the nation faces in the realm of

national security and intelligence.

The chairman noted that the world today was evolving at an unprecedented pace with

emerging technologies, global interconnectedness, and complex geopolitical dynamics redefining the very nature of security.

Amotekun: Armed Robbers Killed 20 Motorcyclists within Three weeks in Ondo

Fidelis David in Akure

The Ondo State Commander of the Western Security Networks Agency known as Amotekun yesterday revealed that no fewer than 20 commercial motorcyclists were killed within the space of three weeks in the state.

Adeleye, who doubles as the Special Adviser (Security Matters) to the state governor, revealed this in Akure while parading 11 suspects arrested for various offences ranging from unlawful possession of firearms to robbery and theft.

According to him, “In the last three weeks, we recorded cases

of no fewer than 20 (Okada) riders that were killed and their motorcycles taken away. It is even risky for them to ride at night. We want to appeal to them to rest after working for 12 hours so that we can recognise criminals.”

He explained that six of the suspects paraded were caught

with locally-made weapons, saying the suspects were getting prepared to destabilise innocent residents and commuters during the yuletide season in the state.

Adeleye reiterated that the ban on motorcycles between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. remained effective except for those motorcycles on essential duties.

Federal Ministry of Finance, Grace Ogbonna, stated this in Abuja while declaring open a three-day training programme for Federal Ministry of Finance Staff Batch 2, on the “Service-Wide Financial Literacy in the Workplace programme on Financial Inclusion.”

The Director, Press & Public

Relations, in the ministry, Mr. Stephen Kilebi quoted Ogbonna as saying that financial inclusion around the world has continued to gain attention globally because of the important role it plays in economic development and poverty alleviation.

Ogbonna noted that in pursuance

of the realisation of the foregoing and the fact that a significant number of Nigeria’s public employees have poor knowledge of financial inclusion, the ministry felt the need to launch an awareness campaign that would holistically build the capacity of public sector workforce on financial literacy.

FG Canvasses Full Implementation of Financial Inclusion in MDAs

NdubuisiFrancisinAbuja

The federal government has expressed its determination for full implementation of financial inclusion in all ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).

The Director, Economic Research and Policy Management (ERPM),

Okumagba Felicitates Onowakpo, Dafinone, Waive over Appeal Court Victory Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Representatives for their victories

Dafinone, representing Delta

Congratulating Senator Joel-

Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, Olorogun Bernard Okumagba, has congratulated the party senators representing the state and a bmember of the Federal House of

Commissioner for Finance, in a statement issued yesterday, felicitated Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South senatorial district; Senator Ede

representing Ughelli South/ Ughelli North/Udu federal constituency over yesterday’s Appeal Court decisions, which affirmed their victories in the February 25 general election.

was “a vindication of what the constituents of our senatorial district already know that Senator Thomas won the popular vote and has the support of the people.”

the Appeal Court.

Central senatorial district, and Onowakpo Thomas, he said the Niger, NLC Meet over 12-Point Demand A chieftain of the All at The former Delta State Hon. Francis Waive, a member Appeal Court’s pronouncement Laleye Dipo in Minna

In a bid to ward off industrial action, the Niger State Government and the Niger State Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have begun negotiations on how to implement the organised labour’s the 12 point demand.

The NLC had given the state government a 30 day notice to commence the implementation of its demand, which expired on Tuesday.

THISDAY learnt that the government had hurriedly invited officials of NLC to the conference table to avert any strike.

The Niger State Chairman of the NLC, Mr. Abdulkhareem

Lafene, when contacted confirmed the development.

“We are already talking” Lafene told THISDAY, adding that “I cannot tell you how far we have gone.”

The NLC had in a memo to the Niger State Head of Service dated October 3, 2023, and titled “Government-Labour Committee, The Need to Expedite Action,” asked the state government for the bulk allocation of at least N5 billion for the defrayment of outstanding gratuities in addition to “the release of at least N2 billion to take care of CPS accrued rights and N500 million monthly for the defrayment of outstanding gratuities.

‘We Were Forced to Sleep with 10 Men Everyday for Higher Income’

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Some girls rescued from a brothel for allegedly engaging in prostitution in Anambra State have revealed that those who introduced them to the act always compelled them to sleep with at

About 80 journalists from the print, electronic and online media in Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo States have received training on fact-checking, to aid the credibility of electoral information, as the states set to hold an off-cycle governorship election on November 11, 2023.

The fact-checking workshops kick-started the iVerify project of the International Press

Centre (IPC) in Lagos and supported by the United Nations Development Programmes (UNDP).

Twenty seven male and female journalists from Kogi State participated in the first leg of the training in Abuja on October 27 and 28; another 27 from Bayelsa State attended the workshop held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, while 27 journalists from Imo State will be trained later in the week.

They were rescued at Oba in Idemili North Local Government Area of the state by officials of the state Ministry of Women’s Affairs and men of the Anambra State Police Command.

“We were given N500 every morning for feeding, and after

that we were compelled to sleep with men. Sometimes, we were beaten when we failed to sleep with up to 10 men in a day.

“Sometimes, we made N4,000 on week days, but during the weekends, we made up to N10,000 and sometimes N15,000.

Obaseki Cannot Limit His Deputy from Governorship Ambition, Says Idahosa Adibe Emenyonu inBenin-city

IPC Train Journalists in Bayelsa, A chieftain of the Peoples Party (PDP) in Edo Kogi, Imo on Fake News Democratic State, Mr. Idahosa, yesterday

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

least 10 men everyday.

The girls, who were about 20 in number, including two under-aged girls, said the motive was for them to make money for the owner of the brothel and those who introduced them to the business.

described as unfortunate the recent face-off between the state Governor, Godwin Obaseki, and his Deputy, Philip Shaibu, pointing out that

the governor has no right to tell the deputy governor the limit of his political ambition.

He said: “The major problem we have is weak leadership. What we see here is that the people are afraid of telling truth to power.

The quarrel was unfortunate. I was very disappointed at some

comments of our leaders.

“The governor has no right to tell the deputy governor the limit of his political ambition. Obaseki didn’t need to fight Shaibu, the fight was totally uncalled for.”

The member of the PDP Board of Trustees (BOT), who spoke during an interactive session

with journalists in Benin-city, the capital of Edo State, said a similar scenario played out during the administration of Adams Oshiomhole when the then Deputy, Dr. Pius Odubu, wanted to succeed him, but Oshiomhole refused to support him, rather, he chose Obaseki as his successor.

Bauchi Fulani Community Appeals for Educational Facilities for their Children children’s quest for education He urged the government lack of permanent school buildings.

Segun Awofadeji inBauchi

The Fulani community in Sabon Garin Yisin in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State has expressed fear that if the government doesn’t support the community with more classrooms and educational facilities, their

would be jeopardised.

The community leader, Hardo Luje Mohammed, made the appeal during an advocacy visit to the community by a group, Women Development Initiative for Selfsustenance (WODASS), at Garin Yisin Community recently.

to come to their aid by complementing their efforts with classrooms and educational facilities for thehildren’s educational pursuits.

According to him, “About 150 children may abandon their hunger for modern education due to the

“One block of classroom built with mud through self-help is grossly inadequate and may not meet the need of a large population of children of the nomads, who nurse the ambition for both modern Islamic and western forms of education.”

47

T H I S D AY • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 02, 2023

THURSdaysports

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Seven Moroccans Threaten Osimhen’s Player of the Year Prospect

Duro Ikhazuagbe Victor Osimhen’s dream of winning the 2023 CAF African Player of the Year is facing serious challenge from

seven Moroccans who led the Atlas Lions to a semi final finish at the last FIFA World Cup in Qatar last December.

The SSC Napoli front man led

the Partenopei to a third Scudetto after over three decades last season, scoring 26 goals in the process.

However, with CAF release of a 30-man list, dominated by seven

Moroccans in the fray for the coveted award, Osimhen will no longer have it easy despite finishing as Africa’s top player in the 8th spot in France Football’s Ballon d’Or Award on

Victor Osimhen (left) and Gift Orban are the only Nigerians listed in two different categories of the 2023 CAF Awards to be presented in Morocco next month

Tuesday night.

In the running for the top prize are; Achraf Hakimi, Yassine Bonou, Hakim Ziyech, Sofyan Amrabat, Youssef En-Nesyri and Yahya Jabrane all from Morocco’s 2022 World Cup squad.

Also in the line for the African Player of the Year award is Egypt and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, his former Reds teammate, Sadio Mane , who similarly led Senegal’s Teranga Lions to AFCON 2021 in Cameroon. There is Ghana’s Thomas Partey whose goal against Francis Uzoho at the Abuja Stadium earned the Black Stars an away win that stopped Super Eagles from qualifying for the Mundial in Qatar.

Another Ghanaian forward, Mohammed Kudus is also on the list of the award to be given on December 11 in Marrekesh, Morocco.

Nwankwo Kanu is last Nigerian to win the award in 1999. Before Kanu, Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amuneke, and Victor Ikpeba similarly won the coveted prize.

The other Nigerian nominated in another is Gift Orban, the Gent of Belgium scoring sensation.

The Benue State-born Orban has been nominated for the CAF Young Player of the Year. Since January, Orban, 21, has scored 27 goals in all competitions for Belgian club KAA Gent since his transfer from Norwegian club Stabaek.

Player of the Year Nominees 1. Ramy Bensebaini (Algeria and Borussia Dortmund) 2. Riyad Mahrez (Algeria and Al Ahli) 3. Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso and

Bayer Leverkusen) 4. Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa (Cameroon and SSC Napoli) 5. Vincent Aboubacar (Cameroon and Besiktas) 6. Ibrahima Sangare (Cote d’Ivoire and Nottingham Forest) 7. Seko Fofana (Cote d’Ivoire and Al Nassr) 8. Chancel Mbemba (DR Congo and Olympique Marseille) 9. Fiston Mayele (DR Congo and Pyramids) 10. Mahmoud Abdel Moneim “Kahraba” (Egypt and Ahly) 11. Mohamed Abdelmonem (Egypt and Al Ahly) 12. Mohamed ElShenawy (Egypt and Al Ahly) 13. Mohamed Salah (Egypt and Liverpool) 14. Mohammed Kudus (Ghana and West Ham United) 15. Thomas Partey (Ghana and Arsenal) 16. Serhou Guirassy (Guinea and VfB Stuttgart) 17. Yves Bissouma (Mali and Tottenham Hotspur) 18. Achraf Hakimi (Morocco and Paris Saint-Germain) 19. Azzedine Ounahi (Morocco and Olympique Marseille) 20. Hakim Ziyech (Morocco and Galatasaray) 21. Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco and Manchester United) 22. Yahya Jabrane (Morocco and Wydad Athletic Club) 23. Yassine Bounou (Morocco and Al Hilal) 24. Youssef En-Nesyri (Morocco and Sevilla) 25. Peter Shalulile (Namibia and Mamelodi Sundowns) 26. Victor Osimhen (Nigeria and SSC Napoli) 27. Sadio Mane (Senegal and Al Nassr) 28. Pape Matar Sarr (Senegal and Tottenham Hotspur) 29. Percy Tau (South Africa and Al Ahly) 30. Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane (Tunisia and Ferencvaros)

NPFL: Remo Stars Drub Edo Queens Crowned Champions Shooting Stars to Retain Top Spot

of Third Edition of BOWFT 2023 Edo Queen Football Club of Benin defeated Bayelsa Queens 4-3 in penalty shootouts to win the third edition of the Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament (BOWFT) at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.

Regulation time deadlocked one-all.

First Lady of Edo State, Betsy Obaseki, who expressed satisfaction on the success recorded in the tournament, said this year’s edition has the highest number of First Ladies in attendance at the final.

She noted that this year’s tournament focused on addressing Gender-Based Violence in the country through football.

Mrs Obaseki added that every year, the tournament seeks to fight against social vices ravaging the society.

“Every year, we seek to fight against different social vices in the society and so far, we have made tremendous success in the fight.

“We thank everyone that has

travelled from around the country to Edo State to watch the tournament. This year, we have the largest number of first ladies watching the final, we are really grateful.”

Bayelsa Queens took the lead in the 12th minute before Edo Queens equalised 40 minutes into the first

half of the game.

In the second half of the game, Suliat Abideen lost penalty dragged the game into penalty shootouts which Edo Queens won 4-3.

The best coach of the tournament prize went to Coach of Edo Queens, Moses Asuku, while Suliat Abideen

won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament.

Robo FC player, Folashade Damilusi, won the Golden Boot award with 6 goals. The best goal keeper of the tournament went to Bayelsa Queens goalkeeper Oniyan Okeke.

After a cagey start, Remo Stars shot ahead in the 20th minute through Ahmed Akinyele, before top scorer, Sikiru Alimi doubled the lead through a penalty kick in the 40th minute.

He increased the deficit for Shooting Stars when he scored the third goal in the 64th minute.

RESULTS

Akwa Utd 1-0 Gombe Utd Heartland 1-1 Rivers Utd K’Pillars 3-0 Bayelsa Utd Kwara Utd 1-2 Sporting Tornadoes 0-0 Enyimba Plateau Utd 1-0 Katsina Remo Stars 3-0 Shooting Sunshine 2-1 Abia Warriors

TotalEnergies Kicks off Peace Football Tourney for OML58 Host Communities Blessing Ibungein Port Harcourt

Edo Queens players and officials celebrating winning the 2023 Betsy Obaseki Women’s Football Tournament inside the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Wednesday night

Kaduna Polo: FirstBank Sponsors Zenith/Delta Principals’ Cup: Over the 103rd Edition of Georgian Cup 1000 Schools Vie for 25 LG Slots The FirstBank sponsored Georgian Cup, one of the continent’s most glamorous polo tournament returns to the famous Kaduna Polo Club this week.

Now in its 103rd edition, the six-day tournament started on Monday, 31 October 2023 and will end on Sunday, 5 November 2023.

The 102nd edition held in Kaduna in 2021 was won by Abuja Rubicon.

Led by Hadi Sirika. Other players in the team include; Bashir Dantata, Abdulmalik Gbadamosi, Argentine imports, Tolito Ocampo and Silvestre Donovan.

The competition which galloped

Remo Stars regained the top spot of the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) after an emphatic 3-0 win against. South West rivals, Shooting Stars of Ibadan at the Remo Stadium in Ikenne.

The win was not only the biggest in the midweek fixtures but same against the Oluyole warlords whom they decimated in all department of the game.

The defeat is the third for Shooting Stars in their seven clashes. Remo Stars are yet to lose to Shooting Stars.

The win takes the Ikenne club to 12 points and a return to the top of the table, even with an outstanding away game with Enyimba.

off during the week staged a glamorous return after twelve months delay following the rehabilitation and remodeling of the polo facility.

The 2023 edition will have fourgoaler Bello Buba, leading the best of selected home-based riders with top professions from Argentina also participating in the tournament.

Also expected to feature prominently is Kaduna El-Amin.

Mohammed Babangida, the patron of the club would be presenting +19-goal team. Babangida have in his team Nigeria’s best polo player Buba +4. El-Amin has won the Georgian Cup 15 times.

The ongoing 2023 edition of the Delta State Principals’ Cup football competition which started on October 19 is fast gathering momentum in the various Local Government areas of the state.

The developmental grassroots competition sponsored by Zenith Bank Plc is expected to produce one winner in each of the 25 LGA of Delta State and the battle has been intense in the past few days in various parts of the state.

Some of the LGAs are in the semifinal stage while some are in the final and according to the timeline, all LG representatives are expected

to emerge by this weekend.

Yesterday, at the Ika North East Local Government, Ute Okpu Secondary School defeated Efizomor mixed Secondary School 2-1 to book a place in the LGA final to meet Owa Alero Secondary School that defeated Owa Oyibu Secondary School 3-2 on penalties after fulltime score stood at 0-0.

In the final match decided on Wednesday at the Uvwie LG, Opete Secondary School defeated Urhobo College 5-4 on penalties to emerge the representative of the Uvwie LGA in the zonal playoffs expected to start next week.

TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited, TEPNG/NNPCL Joint Venture has commenced its 20th edition of the annual football competition organised for the youths of the OML58 host producing communities in Rivers State.

Recalled that the competition began in 2002 following the decision of the NNPC/TEPNG Joint Venture to galvanise cordial relationship and promote peace in its host communities cut across four local government areas of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, Ikwerre, Ahoada East and Ahoada West.

The 18 communities participating in this year's tournament held at Okah Memorial Secondary School, Elele Okinali, include; Akabuka, Erema, Akabta, Ede, White, Ibewa, Obagi, Obite and Obiyebe.

Others are; Oboburu, Ogbogu, Idu, Amah, Elele Alimini, Rumuekpe, Obunwo, Union and host

Elele Okinali community.

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the tournament yesterday, the Deputy Managing Director, JV Asset, Mr Guillaume Dulout said the competition is the company's demonstration of commitment to engage the youths in positive venture that promotes sustainable socio-economic development as well as empowerment.

Dulout said: "Following the huge success of the 18th and 19th editions of this tournament, and the sustained peace in our areas of operation, we have retained the theme for the two previous editions: “Playing for Peace ".

He said this edition further emphasises their message of peace as a driver of community development and prosperity.

Represented by Mr Jacob Ologe, Manager, Capacity Development and Enterprise, Dulout commended the youths for playing active roles in securing the environment and the company's facilities

Thursday, November 02, 2023

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Price: N250

MISSILE

Omisande Adeyemo to Babajide Sanwo-Olu

“We are a hungry lion, and we can bite because we have been pushed to the wall. The government would be saying, ‘don’t you have children?’ Yes, we have children. Did the government employ our children? Even some of our children that are graduates don’t have good jobs to take care of themselves talk less of taking care of their parents”—Chairman of Nigerian Union of Pensioners protesting alleged inhumane treatment of members in Lagos State.

olusegunadeniyi the verdict olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Justice Dattijo’s Parting Shot F

ollowing the death in December 2019 of Senator Benjamin Uwajumogu, then representing Imo North, a by-election had to be conducted to replace him.

The fractious primaries of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) that followed produced many ‘winners’, each of whom went to court claiming to be the party’s candidate.

With a multiplicity of court injunctions, it was no surprise that, in declaring APC victorious after the election held in December 2020, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) proclaimed no candidate as a winner. Apparently unable to manage the crisis, the then APC acting National Chairman and Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, accused three Supreme Court Justices of working with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to scheme the ruling party out of the seat. The Justices so accused are Mohammed Musa Dattijo, Abdu Aboki and Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju.

The Supreme Court did not take kindly to the accusation, and Justice Dattijo expressed his anger in open court. Announcing the suspension of proceedings in the appeal by Chukwuemeka Ibezim against Ifeanyi Ararume in March 2021, Justice Dattijo said, “Let me confirm to all counsel in this matter that the Interim National Chairman of APC had written a petition against me and two other Justices of this court, namely Helen Ogunwumiju and Abdu Aboki.” Buni, according to Justice Dattijo, “alleged that my humble self had led my two brothers to attend a meeting with members of the PDP to strategize on how to subvert the outcome of this case. I must say that this is most unfortunate and my heart bleeds for this country. This is a reckless and irresponsible statement. That is how these useless statements were made in the past and that is why we are not taking it lightly.”

In Nigeria, as it is in most countries, the Supreme Court is the final arbiter in dispute resolution, and that critical institution must be beyond reproach if its decisions are to be of any value to the larger society. For that reason, those who want to impute motives or impugn the reputation of the Justices must do so based on iron-cast evidence and in the appropriate quarters; for the sake of the system and in the interest of all of us. Given the foregoing, Nigerians who sympathised with Justice Dattijo and colleagues three years ago were taken aback when, delivering his valedictory last Friday, the same man rehashed some of the damaging allegations usually levelled against him and colleagues on the bench.

We must commend Justice Dattijo for being candid enough to allow Nigerians a peep into the apparent rot in the judiciary. It is helpful for the system. The housecleaning he called for is very important if we must restore public confidence in justice administration in Nigeria. But a note of caution here. There will always be a winner and a loser in a contested court case. Unfortunately, the inclination for the loser to impugn the judiciary and discredit the reputation of Judges has become popular, especially when it involves election petition cases. This is unhealthy for a democracy still striving to build enduring institutions. Therefore, whatever may have been his motivation, Justice Dattijo has also done enormous damage to the institution.

He is like the proverbial hunter who killed an elephant with his cap. On the first day, as the Yoruba adage goes, many would hail him. But on the second day, the hailers would reflect that a hunter with such diabolic power could be too

Chief Justice Ariwoola dangerous to associate with. And that would end the applause.

Meanwhile, Justice Dattijo has raised several pertinent issues that authorities must address. I will highlight only five. One, Justice Dattijo imputed a lack of transparency and accountability in the management of financial resources in the judicial arm of government and especially at the Supreme Court. From N70 billion in 2015, allocation to the judiciary is now N165 billion today. Yet, “Justices and officers welfare and the quality of service the judiciary render have continued to decline,” he claimed before the punchline: “It is instructive to enquire what the judiciary also does with its allocations. Who is responsible for the expenditure?

An unrelenting searchlight need to be beamed to unravel how the sums are expended.”

Nigerians should be very worried by this revelation from Justice Dattijo. When in June last year Justice Tanko Ibrahim Muhammad was forced out of office as CJN, following a public letter by 14 Supreme Court Justices (including Dattijo), accountability was also the main issue: “We demand to know what has become our training funds, have they been diverted, or it’s a plain denial? Your lordship may also remember that the national assembly has increased the budgetary allocation of the Judiciary. We find it strange that in spite of the upward review of our

budgetary allocation, the Court cannot cater for our legitimate entitlements. This is unacceptable!” they wrote. As I surmised at the time, it was instructive that all the 14 Justices, without any exception—and representing all ethno-religious divides in a country where the elite hardly agree on anything except their personal privileges—signed the protest letter where they also stated: “Your Lordship, with all due respect, this is the peak of the degeneration of the court; it is the height of decadence, and clear evidence of the absence of probity and moral rectitude…this act alone portends imminent danger to the survival of this court and the judiciary as an institution which is gradually drifting to extinction.” Even though the CJN office has since been taken over by one of the 14 ‘coup’ plotters, Justice Dattijo is telling us that the lack of accountability that made them write the unusual letter last year has refused to go away. To change the narrative, I have been made to understand, would require a constitutional amendment. NJC operates in an opaque closed manner and has thus far resisted attempts to compel opening the financials. So, the NJC is as accountable as the CJN in office at any period.

Two, Justice Dattijo alleged that the CJN (current occupant: Olukayode Ariwoola) runs the judiciary without any checks and balances.

As presently structured, according to Justice Dattijo, “the CJN is Chairman of the National Judicial Commission which oversees both the appointment and discipline of judges. He is equally the chair of the Federal Judicial Service Commission, the National Judicial Institute, and the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee that appoints Senior Advocates of Nigeria.” After listing other positions occupied by the CJN whom he accused of making most of the appointments in the sector without conferring with, or seeking the inputs of, fellow justices, Dattijo noted: “Such enormous powers are effortlessly abused. A person with absolute powers, it is said, corrupts easily and absolutely.” This implies rancour among the most senior judicial officers in the country who seem incapable of resolving their own internal dispute. Changing these dynamics would also require a constitutional amendment, from what I understand. But in instances where the CJN have been good leaders, there were no problems. We can leave that for another day.

Three, Justice Dattijo spoke to how, by transferring the onus of determining outcomes of elections to the court rather than the voters, the judiciary is being increasingly compromised. In citing cases involving the 2019 Imo State gubernatorial election and the recent election of former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, Justice Dattijo gave veracity to insinuations of unwholesome practices. I enjoin readers to visit the INEC website and check

It speaks volume that valedictories are now being used by the high and mighty to make confessions that expose the underbelly of the judiciary in Nigeria. Four months ago, it was Senator Bulkachuwa who told us some inconvenient tales.

Now, it is Justice Dattijo’s turn. And to borrow his own word, nothing can be more ‘damnifying’.

the 2019 Imo gubernatorial election result. The name of the person declared validly elected by the commission has not changed, even as of last night. And it is understandable. To go with the figures conjured by the Supreme Court, as INEC officials explained to me, would mean that the total votes cast in the election exceeded the accredited number by 131,340! That perhaps explains why the sobriquet ‘Supreme Court Governor’ may forever be a permanent indictment not only on the Supreme Court Justices who presided over the Imo case but also on the rule of law in Nigeria. Justice Dattijo of course referenced some unnamed respected people in the bar to deliver his point. “It is difficult to understand how and where, by these decisions, the judicial pendulum swings. It was not so before, they contend. In some quarters, the view is strongly held that filth and intrigue characterize the institution these days!

Judges are said to be comfortable in companies they never would have kept in the past. It is being insinuated that some judicial officers even campaign for the politicians. It cannot be more damnifying.” I don’t know what else I can add to that except to say that many of our Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) are also complicit.

Besides, we cannot exclude the judiciary from the mercantile values that now drive our society.

I will also come back to this issue another day.

Four, Justice Dattijo lamented that unlike in the past when “appointment to the bench was strictly on merit,” that is no longer the case. “It is asserted that the process of appointment to judicial positions are deliberately conducted to give undue advantage to the ‘children, spouses, and mistresses’ of serving and retired judges and managers of judicial offices”, he stated. The consequence: “Public perceptions of the judiciary have over the years become witheringly scornful and monstrously critical. It has been in the public space that court officials and judges are easily bribed by litigants to obviate delays and or obtain favourable judgments.” In a milieu where, as I once wrote, politicians are no longer content hiring senior lawyers but must also have their own Judges, the less said about this the better.

Five, Justice Dattijo revealed how sectionalism has crept into the Supreme Court. “While the South-South and North-East have two serving justices, the North-West and South-West are fully represented with three each,” he stated on the current vacancies that are yet to be filled before raising a poser for which he also provided an answer. “Why have these steps not been timeously taken? It is evident that the decision not to fill the vacancies in the court is deliberate. It is all about the absolute powers vested in the office of the CJN and the responsible exercise of same.”

Ordinarily, where Judges or litigants hail from should not matter in justice dispensation but Justice Dattijo is telling us that at the Supreme Court, it does. And he illustrated his point with the just concluded election petition cases. He said that “to ensure justice and transparency in presidential appeals from the lower court, all geopolitical zones are required to participate in the hearing,” whereas the Southeast and North Central are currently excluded because no Justice is from both geopolitical zones. “It is therefore dangerous for democracy and equity for the two entire regions to be left out in the decisions that will affect the generality of Nigerians. This is not what our laws envisaged.”

NOTE: Piece concluded online

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