SATURDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 2023

Tinubu Heads to Germany for G20 ‘Compact with Africa’ Conference Says it's avenue to sustain momentum for foreign direct investment in Nigeria Energy, trade, investment top agenda Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu will today depart Abuja for Berlin, Germany, to attend the G20 Compact with Africa (CwA) Conference, being

hosted by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, which kicks off on Monday.

“The G20 CwA Conference will be taking place alongside the Fourth G20 Investment Summit, co-hosted by the German

government and German business associations,” a statement signed

by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, said yesterday.

In the statement titled,

“President Tinubu attends G20 ‘Compact with Africa’ conference in Berlin as energy, trade, and investment top agenda,” Ngelale noted that the President will use the forum to sustain his

momentum in advancing the cause for foreign direct investment in Nigeria, “as he leads the country’s delegation to participate in the investment summit.”

The statement adds: “During

the conference, Tinubu will join other Heads of State and Governments of CwA member countries, bilateral partners, as Continued on page 5

Emefiele Charged for Purchasing Vehicles for CBN, Remanded Pending Bail...

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Northern States SSGs Lament Poverty, Insecurity in Region John Shiklam in Kaduna Secretary to the Gombe State Government (SSG) and Chairman, Forum of Northern SSGs, Prof.

Ibrahim Njodi, speaking on behalf of other SSGs in the region, yesterday lamented the industrial collapse, poverty and insecurity in the region, “despite its vast

arable land with untapped mineral resources and huge population.”

Njodi spoke in Kaduna during the inauguration of the New Nigeria Development

Company (NNDC) Code of Ethics and Business Conduct.

The NNDC, founded by the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, premier of the defunct Northern Region, is jointly owned by

the 19 Northern states.

Njodi described the inauguration of the code as the right step in repositioning the company.

The code seeks "to commit

NNDC and its subsidiaries to the highest standards of decent behaviour and to instill in all stakeholders of Continued on page 5

After Zamfara, Appeal Court Voids Kano Governor’s Election Rules Abba Yusuf not qualified to contest, tension high in state Upholds election of Bala Mohammed in Bauchi

Alex Enumah in Abuja, Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi and Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano About 24 hours after declaring the 2023 Zamfara State Governorship election inconclusive and ordering fresh polls in three local government areas, the Court of Appeal in Abuja yesterday held that the candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), in the last governorship election in Kano State, Governor Abba Yusuf, was not qualified to contest the election.

The appellate court subsequently upheld the judgment of the Kano State Election Petition Tribunal, which declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Nasiru Gawuna, as the authentic winner of the March 18 poll.

On the same day, the Court of Appeal, Abuja, affirmed the re-election of Bala Mohammed Continued on page 5

COUNTER-TERRORISM IN NORTH EAST… L-R: Borno State Governor, Babangana Zulum; Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru and the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, at a book launch on "Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism in North East” in Abuja... yesterday

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Godwin Emefiele Charged for Purchasing Vehicles for CBN, Remanded Pending Bail Alex Enumah in Abuja The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday arraigned former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele before a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on charges bordering on procurement fraud.

Although, he pleaded not guilty to the six-count charge against him, trial judge, Justice Hamza Muazu, ordered his remand in the Kuje Correctional Center, Abuja, pending his ruling on Emefiele's bail application.

The former CBN boss was released last week after spending 151 days in custody, following the order of Justice Olukayode Adeniyi of the same High Court of the FCT. However, shortly after his arraignment yesterday, the court adjourned till November 22, to determine the bail application, just as it fixed November 28, for the commencement of trial.

The anti-graft agency had

in August, charged Emefiele and one Mrs Sa'adatu Yaro and a company, April 1616 Investment Limited, purported to belong to Mrs Yaro, on alleged breach of the procurement Act in respect of the purchase of some vehicles but the arraignment could not go on because of the reported ill health of Mrs Yaro.

However, when the matter was called yesterday, EFCC's lawyer, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, drew the attention of the court to an amended charge dated November 8, 2023.

In the new charge Emefiele was the sole defendant and the charge reduced from 20 to six, to which the former CBN boss pleaded not guilty.

In count one, he was alleged to have used his position as governor of CBN to confer a corrupt advantage on Sa’adatu Ramailan Yaro, a staff of the Central Bank of Nigeria by awarding a contract for the supply of 37 Toyota Hilux Vehicles at the cost of “N854,700,000.00 only” to April1616 Investment Ltd, a

company in which the said Mrs Yaro is a Director and thereby committed an offence.

In count two, he was alleged to have used his position as Governor of the CBN, sometime in 2019, to confer a corrupt advantage on Sa’adatu Ramailan Yaro, a staff of the Central Bank of Nigeria by awarding a contract for the supply of one Toyota Avalon at the cost of N99,900,000 to

April1616 Investment Ltd, a company in which the said Yero is a Director “and thereby committed an offence, contrary to Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Act 2000.”

In count three, he was alleged to have used his position as Governor of the CBN, sometime in 2019, to confer a corrupt advantage on Sa‘adatu Ramailian Yaro,

a staff of the Central Bank of Nigeria by awarding a contract for the supply of one Toyota Landcruiser V8 at the cost of N73, 800, 000 to April 1616 Investment Ltd, a company in which the said Sa’adatu Ramailan Yaro is a director and thereby committed an offence.

In count four, he was alleged to have used his position as Governor of the

CBN, sometime in 2020, to confer a corrupt advantage on Sa’adatu Ramailan Yaro, a staff of the CBN by awarding a contract for the supply of two Toyota Hilux Shell Specification Vehicles at the cost of N44,200,000 to April1616 Investment Ltd, a company in which the said Sa’adatu Ramailan Yaro is a director and thereby committed an offence.

NORTHERN STATES SSGS LAMENT POVERTY, INSECURITY IN REGION the company, legal, lawful, moral, and ethical cultural values in their daily conduct, to reward good behaviour, and sanction misconduct or any noncompliance within the company."

The SSG said, "The North is characterised by security challenges, poverty, and industrial collapse.

"But we are endowed with vast uncultivated arable land, abundant unfound, unexploited mineral resources and a huge population.

“Today's event reinforces the

urgent need to put the North back on track. Our region lags behind in terms of economic resources, education and other social indices."

He pledged the support of Northern states SSGs to ensure vigour and vitality in the activities of the company.

Unveiling the code, Uba Sani, governor of Kaduna State, represented at the event

by Abdulkadir Meyere, his SSG, described the code as a remarkable step to further boost investment confidence and securing the goodwill the

NNDC had built over the years.

Sani restated Kaduna State’s commitment to continuous partnership with the company for the benefit of the North and the nation at large.

In his message, Chairman, NNDC Board of Directors, Malam Tanimu Yakubu, said the code was introduced to further drive the company's successes.

He said the code would be used as a "guidebook for putting our values into practice.

"We set out a clear standard

of conduct to ensure that we always make the right choices, providing the appropriate framework to safeguard the company's operations and sustainability.

"The Code was conceived on the premise of ensuring that we hold ourselves accountable and how we do business to a high standard,” Yakubu said.

He added that adhering to the new code will assist the company in keeping up with the best practices required in the quest to build a respected and successful NNDC.

In faulting the case of the appellant, the court held that the appellant did not call relevant officials of the electoral umpire, such as Supervising and Presiding officers to give evidence to prove that the said forms were not filled and why.

Justice Uwa held that though there were blank spaces in some of the forms produced as evidence, it was not substantial enough to cancel the election, because the appellants failed to prove what should have been in those spaces.

She said "from the pleadings, the appellants failed to state the specific details which were to be in the alleged forms, that were not put on the forms."

The judge said the tribunal did a thorough job in evaluating the evidence and that "the evidence of the petitioners were unreliable.

"This appeal is hereby dismissed as the appellants failed to prove their case" Justice Uwa said.

Recall that the Bauchi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal on September 5, 2023, upheld Mohammed's re-election as Bauchi State Governor.

In the judgement delivered by a three-man panel, led by Justice P.T Kwahar, the court held that there is no strong reason to nullify the election as the election was conducted in compliance with the law.

Meanwhile, Bauchi State Deputy Governor, Mohammed Auwal Jatau welcomed the Appeal Court verdict which affirmed their election.

Jatau said the victory not only affirms the strength of

democracy, but solidifies the commitment of the present administration of Bala Mohammed to the progress, development, and the general well-being of the good people of the state.

The Deputy Governor also said the resounding victory at the appeal court was a triumph for all the people of the state, as it signifies the PDP-led administration's collective endeavors in advancing good governance, providing quality education, ensuring accessible healthcare, fostering economic growth, and promoting peace and unity.

Jatau said, "I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to all the citizens of Bauchi state for their unwavering support and trust in our administration.

"It is their resilience, determination, and belief in our vision that has brought us to this remarkable milestone today.

Their faith in us is what fuels us to tirelessly work towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

"I want to also express my sincere appreciation to the Appeal Court for ensuring a fair and transparent judicial process.

"The verdict is a testament to the efficacy of our justice system and its commitment to upholding the principles of justice, equity, and the rule of law. Our Governor's victory is a victory for progress, for the downtrodden, and for every citizen who has entrusted their hopes and dreams to our administration."

AFTER ZAMFARA, APPEAL COURT VOIDS KANO GOVERNOR’S ELECTION as Governor of Bauchi State.

According to the threemember panel, led by Justice M.A Adumeh, that heard the Yusuf Vs Gawuna case, evidence before it showed that Yusuf was not a member of the NNPP as at the time he was sponsored by the party to contest the March 18 governorship election in Kano State.

Specifically, the appellate court in the unanimous judgment held that the NNPP breached the constitution by sponsoring Yusuf who was not a member of the party.

The three-man panel of the court held that every political party shall maintain the register of its voters, adding that the appellant to his own detriment did not submit his NNPP membership register or even tendered his statement on oath regarding his membership of the party.

The court said the 1999 Constitution made it mandatory for a political party to have a membership register and submit the same to INEC and the tribunal when needed.

The court said the name of Abba was not in the NNPP membership register.

"As rightfully found, Yusuf Abba was not a member of the NNPP at the time he was purportedly sponsored by his party and he was not qualified to contest the March Governorship Election," the appellate court held.

"If you claim to be a member of a political party, is it not logical for you to say so by yourself and not by proxy?

"Even though membership of a political party is an internal affair, a political party cannot be permitted to circumvent or breach the provisions of the 1999 Constitution.

"The Tribunal was wrong not to have disqualified the appellant on the basis of the membership of the NNPP. "Therefore, the failure of the appellant and the NNPP to comply with the 1999 Constitution is fatal to their election.

"All issues in this appeal are dismissed and the judgement of the tribunal is affirmed," the court held.

The appellate court said

the appellant did not provide credible and cogent reason for it to overturn the judgment of the tribunal.

Adumeh further berated political parties for always blaming their defeat at the court on the judges.

He said, “The same party will wake up to accuse the judiciary, including infamous allegations of corrupt practices. All the issues are hereby resolved against the appellant. The judgement of the tribunal is hereby affirmed. The sum of N1 million is hereby awarded in favour of the first respondent against the appellant.”

INEC had announced NNPP's Yusuf as winner of the March 18, 2023 election, having scored 1,019,602 votes to defeat Gawuna who got 890,705 of the votes cast.

However, following APC and Gawuna's petition, the tribunal held that there was evidence of irregularities and corrupt practices resulting in the cancellation of over 160,000 ballot papers on grounds that the ballot papers “were not signed or stamped by INEC. Following the deduction of the over 160,000 votes from Yusuf's scores, his garnered votes then came down to about 853,939, less than the 890,705 polled by Gawuna.

The tribunal subsequently declared Gawuna the authentic winner of the March 18 governorship election.

Dissatisfied, Yusuf approached the Court of Appeal, to challenge his sack by the tribunal.

Meanwhile, the Kano state Chairman of the APC, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas has described the party's victory at the appeal court as one for all the people of the state.

Speaking at a press conference in Kano yesterday, Abba said: "I am happy to inform all those victims of demolition by the NNPP. administration at Eid ground, Salanta, and other places that this is their victory and that their saviour has arrived.

"We assure the people of Kano that their responsible government has returned, so they have nothing to fear

again.”

But the Chairman of the NNPP in Kano State, Hashimu Dungurawa described the Appeal Court's verdict as a doom for democracy in Nigeria.

Dungurawa said: "The judgement is very unexpected.

We never expected it would happen this way. The way things are going and with the way the judicial system is, definitely democracy is coming to an end in this country.

"I see no reason why a person will go to the grassroots and introduce himself to the people, they will go to the polling booth to cast their votes, and the Independent election umpire will issue him a certificate of return and he will enter office and just one two or three people in the court will sit down and remove him. This is very unbecoming and is not helping matters.”

He described democracy as a game of numbers which his party, the NNPP, had proven to be ahead of other contenders in the state, but that their expectations have been dashed by the Appeal Court's verdict.

"Democracy is said to be a game of numbers and the person in question happens to get the highest numbers in the election.

"Of all the Assembly members, we have 26 out of 40, we have two out of three Senators. Even the Presidential candidate is from the state and has the highest votes in a state in the presidential contest.

"We are not happy with this judgement and consider it not acceptable. We will take all the

necessary steps to reclaim our stolen mandate. Because this is a stolen mandate and we will not allow it. People of Kano State are not happy with it, NNPP people are not happy with it," Dungurawa declared.

Election of Bala Mohammed Affirmed The Court of Appeal, Abuja, yesterday affirmed the reelection of Bala Mohammed as Governor of Bauchi State and dismissed the appeal by former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar (Rtd) challenging the victory of Mohammed at the March 18 governorship election.

INEC had declared Mohammed and his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), winner of the Bauchi governorship election, having scored a majority of the lawful votes cast at the poll.

While Mohammed polled 525,280 votes to emerge victorious, Abubakar on the other hand scored 432,272, to emerge second.

Dissatisfied, Abubakar and his party, the APC proceeded to the Bauchi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal to challenge the electoral umpire's declaration.

But his petition was dismissed for lacking in merit, thereby prompting the instant appeal.

Delivering judgement, Justice Chidiebere Nwaoma Uwa, held that the appellants failed to prove their allegations of non-compliance and other irregularities.

FG BOWS TO PRESSURE, CANCELS PLAN TO TAKE 40% OF VARSITIES’ IGR well as Heads of International Organisations to deliberate on the immediate enhancement of economic and business cooperation to outline concrete measures to boost investments in critical areas such as energy, trade, infrastructure, and new technologies, among others.

“The visit is also President Tinubu’s commitment to diplomatic reciprocity as the invitation to Germany from the German Chancellor is being honoured following the visit of the German Chancellor to Abuja

and Lagos, Nigeria, from October 29 to October 30, 2023.

“The Nigerian delegation will follow up on productive meetings previously conducted with highranking representatives from German business organisations who were part of the official delegation of the German Chancellor to Nigeria.

“In his discussions with Chancellor Scholz in October, President Tinubu highlighted the imminent need for more German companies to invest in the Nigerian market across

multiple sectors of the Nigerian economy, such as transportation, mining, and energy, while noting that Nigeria remains Germany’s second-largest trading partner in Africa.

“Nigeria and Germany, being the largest economies in Africa and Europe, respectively, recorded an increase in bilateral trade volume from two to three billion Euros between 2021 and 2022.”

The President will be accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar; the Coordinating Minister of the

Economy and Minister of Finance, Mr Wale Edun; the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite; and the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu.

Germany has become President Tinubu’s 10th foreign destination since assuming office about six months ago.

So far, he has visited France (twice), London, Guinea-Bissau (twice), Kenya, Benin Republic, India, the United Arab Emirates, the United States of America, and Saudi Arabia.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 18, 2023

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NEWS

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

FRUITFUL TALKS. . .

L-R: The Chief Executive Officer, Access Bank plc, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna and Vice-President Kashim Shettima, after a meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja ...yesterday.

Let’s Unite Against Terrorism, Tinubu Urges Nigerians Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu yesterday urged Nigerians to stand united in the fight against terrorism and work for global peace and security.

Tinubu, according to a statement by the office of the Senate President, made the appeal inAbuja at a book launch on ‘Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism in North-east Nigeria: Emerging Perspectives and the Imperative of Airpower’.

The book was a research study sponsored by the Nigerian Airforce in collaboration with Babcock University.

Tinubu said, “Together, let us stand united against terrorism and work towards a

future where peace, security and prosperity prevails in the North-east region of Nigeria, in Nigeria and the global community.”

Tinubu’s prepared text was read by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio who represented the President to formally unveil the book.

Tinubu said the book “represents a significant contribution to the understanding of one of the most pressing challenges of our time, the fight against terrorism.”

The President said the Northeast region of Nigeria had been grappling with the scourge of terrorism for far too long adding that the brutal attacks committed

MTN Further Reviews Tower Contracts to Drive Efficiency Emma Okonji The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MTN Nigeria, Mr. Karl Toriola, has said there will be periodic review of the company’s tower contracts, to drive efficiency and ensure optimal performance from vendors.

This is against the backdrop of the recent award of tower contracts to ATC, and the fact that another 1,500 site contracts will soon be due for renewal.

Toriola said this at the MTN Nigeria’s Capital Markets Day, which was held at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, recently.

According to him, “Efficient tower contracts are key in driving cost effective, deep broadband penetration and leading technology across our operations, and in our quest of achieving differentiated value, we will from time to time review the contracts we have with our partners to ensure they optimally meet our site requirements.

But beyond efficiency, we will also focus on cost optimisation, green energy utilisation and sustainability.”

In his presentation, MTN’s Chief Financial Officer, Modupe Kadri, gave the current breakdown of the company’s tower business, saying energy efficiency initiatives and independent power projects (IPP) we-+re essential in achieving excellent delivery of the company’s

expense efficiency programme.

“IHS currently has 14.6k sites (80 per cent) as against ATC’s 2.3k’s (13 per cent). About 2.5k network sites under IHS portfolio due to expire in 2024 and 2025 have been awarded to ATC after a highly competitive bidding process. This will reduce IHS’ portfolio to 12.1k sites (66 per cent) and increase ATC to 4.7k (26 per cent) of the entire portfolio. The remaining IHS sites will expire between 2025 and 2029, with the majority in 2029.

It is important to say that tower contract renegotiation, supported by disciplined capital allocation, is very important in mitigating the impact of forex liberalisation and higher energy costs,” he said.

Toriola used the Capital Market Day event opportunity to announce the progress made on achieving the company’s ‘Ambition 2025’ Strategy, and the emerging opportunities in Nigeria’s digital economy to local and international investors.

“I am encouraged and excited at the prospect of a liberal economic reform agenda for Nigeria that presents an opportunity to unleash its latent growth potential. The recognition that private sector investment will be critical to that is clear, and we are already seeing steps being taken to enable the business environment.

by extremist groups had inflicted immense suffering upon very innocent people of that region and Nigeria as a whole.

“But amidst this darkness, there is hope. Hope that with true knowledge, understanding and the collective efforts of all stakeholders, we can overcome these challenges and restore peace and stability to the region and by implication to Nigeria,” the President said.

He said the book, which was authored by experts who had dedicated their lives to studying and analysing the complexity of terrorism and counter terrorism offered unique insights and perspectives.

“It delves into the root cause of terrorism in the North-east region, examines the evolving tactics and strategies employed by extremist groups and explores the roles of airpower in combating this menace.

“Airpower has emerged as a critical component in modern warfare and its significance in counter terrorism operations cannot be overestimated.

“The use of air assets such as drones, surveillance aircrafts and precision weapons have proven instrumental in gathering intelligence, disrupting terrorist networks and providing support to ground forces.

“The launch of this book is

not just an academic exercise.

It is a call to action. It serves as a reminder that we have a shared responsibility to fight against terrorism and protect the lives and liberty of our fellow citizens.

“By fostering partnership and fostering a deeper understanding of the complexity of terrorism, we can enhance our collective efforts to address this threat comprehensively.

Troops Kill 6 Terrorists in Kaduna, Recover Arms, Motorcycles John Shiklam in Kaduna Six bandits have been neutralised by troops of the Nigerian Army during extensive clearance patrols spanning Birnin Gwari and Giwa local government areas of Kaduna State.

Samuel Aruwan, the administrator of Kaduna Capital Territory who doubled as Overseeing Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, disclosed this in a statement in

Kaduna yesterday.

He said the troops also recovered arms, ammunition and motorcycles from the criminals.

Aruwan said, “Operational feedback to the Kaduna State Government revealed that the troops began their advance along the Kaduna-Sabon Birni-Dogon Dawa Road, clearing Maidaro and Ngede Allah, before proceeding to Saulawa and Kidandan general areas.”

He added that, “In the course of

these operations, the forces made contact with bandits at Maidaro, Ngade Allah and Kidandan.”

According to him, the troops engaged the bandits, subduing them at each point, adding that six of them were confirmed neutralised.

The statement added that the troops explored the areas and recovered two AK-47 rifles, four AK-47 magazines, 14 rounds of ammunition along with 40 pairs of ‘bandits’ uniforms’ while nine

motorcycles were captured.

Aruwan said, “Governor Uba Sani expressed satisfaction at the breakthrough achieved by the security forces, and commended the leadership of the GOC, 1 Division of the Nigerian Army and Force Commander of the Operation Whirl Punch, Major General V.O. Okoro.“ He said the governor lauded the troops for their fine efforts, as he urged them to sustain the tempo and focus of operations.

Oyebanji Presents N500m Gratuity to 140 Pensioners in Ekiti Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has assured pensioners in the state that his administration would not relent in the drive to clear the backlog of gratuities in order to guarantee their welfare at their old age.

Governor Oyebanji stated this while presenting cheques worth N500 million to about 140 benefiting retired state pensioners at a brief event at Jibowu Hall,

Ado- Ekiti.

He said the government was not unaware of the hardship caused by the subsidy removal on the senior citizens who had served the state meritoriously for the better part of their lives, assuring that the government would always look for avenues to cushion the effect of the economic situation.

While disclosing that efforts were in top gear to work out modalities on how to clear the

backlog of all gratuity arrears, Governor Oyebanji said his administration would also consider the demand for monthly payment of gratuity to Pensioners.

As regards wage award for workers, Oyebanji said his government was already working out a scenario where workers would be taken care of to cushion the effect of subsidy removal on them but would not rush to give a figure the government would not be able

to sustain.

He pleaded with the citizens of the state to be patient with his administration as the government is also working out formalities that would take care of those in the informal sector of the economy as he assured all of good policies, interventions and infrastructural development that would enable the government perform its responsibility to all without prejudice.

Eno Bags Guild of Editors Excellence Award The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has honoured the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, with an Excellence Award in Good Governance for his media-friendly disposition.

The governor was presented with the award at Government House, Uyo, by the President of NGE, Mr. Eze Anaba, at a Gala night to round off the 2023 All Nigerian Editors’ Conference.

Receiving the award, the

governor thanked the Guild for recognising the efforts of his administration in delivering good governance to people of the state and to justify the mandate entrusted on him.

He appreciated the NGE for choosing Akwa Ibom for their 19th conference and reaffirmed the readiness of the state government to collaborate with the media to tell the state’s story which according to him,

is written with a focus on his ARISE Agenda.

“We are open to collaborate with you as much as possible to tell the Akwa Ibom story. The things we do may not be so big, but we trust that you can help us tell the story behind those little things we do to affect the lives of the common people.”

Explaining the commitment of his administration to the ARISE Agenda, Governor

Eno said the state has been blessed with great leaders who have raised the bar in infrastructure, adding that it was necessary to better the lives of the citizenry, who dwell mostly in rural areas by connecting the dots.

“For us, we have been blessed with infrastructure in our state, we feel that there’s need to connect our rural people to those infrastructure.”

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 18, 2023

NEWS

CERTIFICATE OF RETURN IN KITTY… L-R: Wife of Bayelsa State Governor, Gloria; winner of the November 11 governorship election in Bayelsa, Douye Diri; the Independent National Electoral Commission’s National Commissioner for Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa and Rivers states, May Agbamuche-Mbu and the state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Obo Effanga, during the presentation of INEC’s Certificate of Return to Diri at the commission’s state headquarters in Yenagoa…yesterday.

FG Bows to Pressure, Cancels Plan to Take 40% of Varsities’ IGR Bennett Oghifo The federal government has bowed to pressure and cancelled the controversial plan to deduct 40 per cent of the Internally

Generated Revenues (IGR) of federal universities and transfer such to the Federation Account.

The government had in a letter dated October 17, 2023, titled ‘Implementation of 40%

ITF Empowers 165 Ogun Indigenes The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Abeokuta Area office through its National Industrial Skills Development Programme (NISDP) has trained and equipped no fewer than 165 Ogun indigenes selected across the three Senatorial Districts of the state.

The beneficiaries were trained in tailoring and fashion design, solar power installation, hairdressing and beauty care, shoe and bag making as well as P.O.P. installation.

The ITF Area Manager, Mrs. Bolanle Ajibade, in her welcome address, enjoined the trainees to deploy the skills they have acquired to contribute to the growth and development of the Nigeria economy at large, adding that they should make good use of the opportunity to better their lots and impact

the life of those around them positively.

“Do not contemplate selling any of the items presented to you. You have been taught to fish, please don’t toy with it.

Go out and prove to the world that the three months or two months you spent in training is not a waste,” Ajibade said.

Corporate Affairs Manager, West/Mid-West, Nigeria Brewery Ltd, Mr. John Denjuma, in his remarks, harped on the importance of skills acquisition in reducing the unemployment rate, urging the trainees to create wealth with the opportunity towards contributing to national productivity.

He assured that his company would not relent in empowering the youth and giving back to society through their corporate social responsibility scheme.

British Council, Stakeholders Develop Professional Standards for School Leaders Educational stakeholders from Nigeria and the UK converged on Lagos last Wednesday to develop professional standards for school leaders.

The 5-day summit, which was the outcome of a partnership between the British Council and the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), sought to promote excellence in instructional leadership among school leaders in Nigeria.

The standard aims to establish clear performance expectations for school leaders in instructional leadership across different career stages and define the essential knowledge and competencies needed for effective leadership.

British Council Programme Director, Mr. Chikodi Onyemerela, said the professional standards initiative was a product of a

study tour which looked at the practice of instructional leadership in the UK, and discovered a gap in the Nigerian educational sector that needed to be filled.

“The British Council has locations in over 100 countries in the world and we bring expertise from these locations to bear on the needs of the country. We found out there was a gap in Nigeria and on return to Nigeria, we wanted to meet those gaps that were discovered. And we engaged TRCN which indicated interest in working with us in filling the gaps in school leadership practice,” Onyemerela said.

He said other critical stakeholders were also engaged to develop a leadership standard which enabled profound student outcomes.

automatic deduction from internally generated revenue of partially funded federal government institutions’, said it would begin the deduction with effect from November 2023.

However, the Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, announced a policy reversal yesterday during the 75th Founder’s Day ceremony of the University of Ibadan and described the 40 per cent IGR policy implementation as “ill-timed”.

Mamman said President Bola Tinubu approved the cancellation following the controversy that trailed it.

He also maintained that it was not the best time for such a policy “since our universities are struggling.”

In his speech as a Visitor to the university, Tinubu pledged his commitment to the reform of the nation’s education sector as the bedrock for national development.

Mamman said, “The 40 percent IGR automatic deduction

policy stands cancelled. This is not the best time for such a policy since our universities are struggling.”

The letter for the planned deduction of the IGR of universities, was signed by the Accountant-General of the Federation, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Madein and Director of Revenue and Investment, Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, Felix Ore-ofe Ogundairo.

It said the auto-deduction policy of gross IGR was in line

with the Finance Circular dated December 20, 2021.

Countering, the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities wrote a protest letter to the government, demanding that it rescind the plan.

The Secretary-General, Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, Prof.

Yakubu Ochefu, said the government could not be demanding 40 percent of varsities IGR when it had refused to grant them autonomy.

Naira Stable at Parallel Market, Appreciates at Official I&E Nume Ekeghe The naira yesterday remained stable at the parallel market against the dollar where it exchanged at N1,135/$1 while it appreciated slightly at the official I&E window closing the day at N791.75/$1.

The official I&E window at N791.75/$1 appreciated

from N841.14/$1 it closed on Thursday representing a N49.39 gain. However, intra-day trade from the data obtained by FMDQ showed that the highest spot rate exchanged at N1120/$1 while the lowest spot rate recorded was N701/$1 Also, the parallel market at N1,135/$1 remained

stable compared to the previous day. A breakdown of parallel market rates this week showed that on Monday naira exchanged f o r N 1 , 1 3 0 , Tu e s d a y s a w a d e p re ciation to N1,140, Wednesday saw rates unchanged at N1,140 and then appreciated marginally Thursday

to N1,135.

Breakdown at the official I&E window started the week at N795.41, Tuesday saw a depreciation to N850.22, it gained on Wednesday to N818.99, took a deep on Thursday to N841.14 before closing the week at the best rate of the week at N791.75.

Police Hand over 26 Illegal Aliens to Immigration in Edo Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Nigeria Police, Edo State Command has handed over 26 illegal aliens that were arrested in the state to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) for interrogation.

The illegal aliens were said to have been intercepted last week at Ayua near Auchi, headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area of the state.

Spokesman of the Edo

State Police Command, Chidi Nwabuzor, who disclosed this yesterday in Benin City, said that the foreigners were moved to the custody of the Edo State Command of NIS, Benin City on Monday, November 13, 2023.

Nwabuzor, a superintendent of police, said that when the aliens were quizzed, it was discovered that they could not effectively communicate in English except to identify their countries of origin.

According to him, “They (aliens) confessed that a certain

young man brought them to Nigeria through the Cameroon border.”

He added that the 26 migrants comprised16 males and eight females from Cameroon while the remaining two, a male and a female from Burkina Faso, were reportedly arrested at Ayua-Uzaire, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State on November 9th, 2023.

The Nigerian, who claimed to have lived and worked in

Cameroon for years, simply identified himself as an excavator operator and confessed to having brought the foreigners to the country to join in excavation work at the small Edo town.

The spokesman of NIS, Edo Command, Mr. Ki Ake, is yet to comment on the issue but checks at the NIS Edo headquarters in Benin City, however, revealed that the 26 migrants have been kept in a special facility of the service pending thorough investigations.

Commitment to Excellence My Administration’s Watchword, Says Oborevwori

Gov Obaseki delivers keynote address at Delta EXCO retreat Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to excellence that would ensure endurable legacies in governance and people cum result-oriented policies, programmes and projects that would impact the entire state.

Oborevwori stated this at the 2023 Delta State Executive Council

Retreat held at Maryam Babangida Leisure Park, Asaba, yesterday.

According to the governor, the retreat, with theme, ‘Delivering the M.O.R.E Agenda for Advancing Delta: Strategies Enablers’, was advised by the need to ensure that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of government align their programmes and activities with the administration’s policy focus.

The “strategic imperatives of the

M.O.R.E agenda have been distilled into deliverables” such that they could be measured, tracked, and reported.

The governor said, “These key performance indicators will enable us to measure our progress as an administration based on established timelines and benchmarks for success.

“This will in turn, enable efficiency of government, enhance

performance, hold the MDAs accountable, and promote judicious utilisation of resources.

“It is my earnest expectation that this forum will provide the pathway for us to deliver on the promises of the M.O.R.E Agenda through fiscal responsibility, synergy among the MDAs, robust community engagement, effective public communication, creative execution of programmes, and excellent service delivery.”

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 18, 2023 • T H I S D AY

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER NOVEMBER 18, 2023

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NEWS

BOOK LAUNCH..

L-R: The Abisogun II, Oniru of Iruland, HRM Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal; Founder and CEO, Emzor Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Company, Mrs. Stella Okoli; Author of the book, Pelewura, Dr. Femi Olugbile; Former Nigerian Ambassador to Brazil and chairman of the occasion, Dele Cole; Chairman and Chief Medical Director, Finnih Medical Centre,Dr. Oluyomi Abayomi Finnih; Former Inspector General of Police, Alh. Musiliu Smith; and Book Reviewer, Mr. Jaiye Kofolaran Randle, at the Formal Launch and Public Presentation of the Book ‘Pelewura’ by Dr. Femi Olugbile in Lagos… recently PHOTO ETOP UKUTT

EIU Predicts Further Devaluation of the Naira Ethical Values Remain Guiding +LJK LQÁDWLRQ DQG WKH JDS EHWZHHQ WKH R΀FLDO DQG SDUDOOHO market rates of the Naira will continue to fuel exchange rate instability and result in periodic devaluations.

This is as the country grapples with an unsupportive monetary policy, piling pressure on the naira.

The Economist Intelligence Unit disclosed this in its recently released ‘Africa Outlook 2024,’ report.

It noted that double-digit currency depreciation will continue to be a thing in

Nigeria.

It said, “Elsewhere, doubledigit currency depreciation is anticipated in the major economies of Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Angola, and Nigeria.

“In Nigeria, an unsupportive monetary policy implies that the naira will remain under pressure, while the central EDQN ODFNV WKH ÀUHSRZHU WR adequately supply the market or clear a backlog of foreign exchange orders, which will keep foreign investors unQHUYHG +LJK LQÁDWLRQ DQG a continued spread with the

parallel market will leave the exchange rate regime unstable and result in periodic devaluations.”

It also predicted that while LQÁDWLRQDU\ SUHVVXUHV PD\ HDVH from elevated levels recorded in 2023 for all but a small handful of African countries in 2024.

It, however, highlighted that LQÁDWLRQ ZLOO UXQ VWURQJ LQWR 2024 and remain a central story for several large economies, including Angola, the DRC, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, Sudan, and Zimbabwe.

It stated that these countries

ZLOO FRQWLQXH WR VXͿHU WKH economic instability generated by another year of double-digit FRQVXPHU SULFH LQÁDWLRQ ODUJHO\ driven by elevated oil prices.

The research and analysis division of the Economist Group further forecasted that Africa will be the world’s second-fastest-growing major region in 2024, behind Asia.

It said almost all African states will post a positive growth story, with war-torn Sudan and struggling Equatorial Guinea the only economies that look set to contract in 2024.

FG to Close All 4 Ramps of Third Mainland Bridge From Monday Bennett Oghifo

The federal government will close four ramps leading in and out of the Third Mainland Bridge on Monday, November 20, 2023 from 7am.

The Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Mrs. O. I. Kesha said this in a

statement yesterday, titled ¶1RWLÀFDWLRQ RI &ORVXUH RI $OO Ramps by 7am On Monday, 20th of November, 2023’.

According to Mrs. Kesha, “The federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Works, wishes to inform the motoring public that the government has perfected plans to carry out compre-

hensive repairs of Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos.

“In view of the above, the motoring public are hereby QRWLÀHG WKDW DOO IRXU UDPSV connecting Adekunle to TMB will be closed at the same going forward.

“Consequently, motorists are hereby advised to use alternative routes while

cooperating with the trafÀF PDQDJHPHQW R΀FLDOV GHSOR\HG WR PDQDJH WUD΀F and ensure hitch-free movement.”

As things stand, motorists cannot exit the bridge to Adekunle or enter the bridge from Adekunle but the lanes leading to Oworosoki will EH RSHQ WR WUD΀F

Light for Humanity, Says Obi The 2023 Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has underscored the critical necessity of cultivating individuals grounded in ethical values to steer forthcoming endeavours.

He conveyed this imperative during the UNESCO World Philosophy Day event held yesterday at Nnamdi Azikiwe

University, Awka.

Focusing on the conference’s theme, ‘The Human of the Future and the Future of the Human’, Obi delved into profound inquiries regarding humanity’s trajectory, drawing inspiration from Socrates’s timeless adage, “an unexamined life is not worth living.”

PDP Groups Give Akeredolu 72 Hours to Resume Work or Handover to Deputy Chuks Okocha in Abuja

their requests are not met.

Addressing a press conferA coalition of pressure ence yesterday at the national groups within the Peoples secretariat of the PDP, the Democratic Party (PDP) National Coordinator of the yesterday charged the Ondo PDP Forever Groups, Hon. State Governor, Oluwarotimi Onande Gideon Obande, said, Akeredolu, to resume duties “We make bold to say that, if within 72 hours or hand over the governor fails to resume or WKH PDQWOH RI KLV R΀FH WR WKH handover power to his Deputy within 72 hours, we will have deputy governor.

The group threatened that no option than to occupy Ondo they will occupy the Ondo State Government House to State Government House, if press home our demand.”

Internet Fraud: EFCC Explains Clash with Air Force Personnel Save Us Before Erosion Swallows Our Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Chicken Eatery, Barnawa, Kaduna, following credible The Economic and Financial intelligence about their alleged Crimes Commission (EFCC) internet-related fraud activities.

It listed the suspected internet yesterday explained the clash between its operatives and fraudsters to include Favour Nigerian Air Force personnel Itung, Rachael Ande, Zuleiman Haruna, Abubakar Ismaila and in Kaduna.

A statement issued by the Solomon Olobatoke, who were commission in Abuja said arrested without incident.

“However, after the sting operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Command of the EFCC operation, six military personnel, on Monday, November 13, who witnessed the operation at DUUHVWHG ÀYH VXVSHFWV DW Disney Chicken Eatery, stormed a residential Inn and Disney the Kaduna Command and at-

tempted to forcibly release the arrested fraud suspects. They were subdued and detained over the security breach.

“The intruders are four Air Force personnel, Lawal Abdullahi, Chukwuma Chidi Christian, Alfa Suleiman and Emmanuel Ekwozor, and two students of Nigerian Air Force Institute of Technology, AFIT, Chidera Anuba and Joseph Tokula,” it said.

The statement signed by the Spokesman of the commission,

Dele Oyewale, said while in detention, there were inter-agency communication and discussions by the leadership of the EFCC and the Nigerian Air Force, NAF to resolve the issues.

“Unfortunately, dialogue on the release of the combative Air Force personnel broke down on Friday, November 17, 2023 ZKHQ VRPH XQUXO\ 1$) 2΀FHUV stormed the Kaduna Command in a commando- style, to forcefully release their detained colleagues.

FCTA Redeems N334m Counterpart Fund for ACReSAL Project Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The FCT Administration has paid N334 million of its counterpart funds of the $700 million loan which the federal government secured from the World Bank for the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project.

The National Coordinator of the project, Mr. Abdulhamid Umar, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja at the inauguration of the committees for the six Areas Councils by the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Lawan Geidam.

Umar said the $700 mil-

lion sovereign loan secured in 2021 was meant for the FCT and 11 northern states to tackle deforestation and food insecurity.

He said the project had accessed over N11 billion from the implementing states as counterpart funds, adding no state would access the facility without providing their own counterpart fund.

“I am happy to report that FCT have paid their own counterpart funding of N334 million, but there are still balances. We want to use this opportunity to appeal to the FCT Minister and the Minister of State to intervene and balance the DFFRXQW EHFDXVH WKH ÀJXUH is largely the minimum of N500 million.” Umar said.

Land, Abia Community Cries to Tinubu Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

to come to the rescue of the cocoa producing community.

It also produces palm An agrarian community in produce, plantain, banana Abia State has cried out over and timber in commercial the devastating blow that gully quantities The Traditional Ruler of Oroerosion is dealing to the area DIWHU HYHU\ VHOI KHOS HͿRUW KDV Ibere autonomous community, HRH Eze Stanley Ijenwa, failed to stem the menace.

The distress call rang out voiced out the collective in the Iberenta community in anxiety of the Iberenta people Ikwuano Local Government of yesterday while speaking with Abia with leaders calling on journalists while conducting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu them round the erosion sites.

Corona Schools’ Trust Commits to Improve Learning with Library Upgrade Corona Schools’ Trust Council, an institution with a focus on the development of world-class schools in terms of curriculum, teaching methodologies and management, has upgraded the library of Adeife Sodipo-Akindeko Memorial

Primary School.

The library, according to the management of the Corona Schools’ Trust Council is part of its commitment to education and community development, under its ‘Out-of-School initiative.

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SATURDAY NOVEMBER 18, 2023 • T H I S D AY

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NOVEMBER 18, 2023 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Drive within the law...

I

Witch Persecution and Penis Disappearance

Ĵ ȱ ȱ ¡ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ¡ ȱ ǰȱ Ȃ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ¡ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ě ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ǰȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ DZȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ȃ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ Ĵ ǰȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ¡ ȱ ¢ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ǰȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¡ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯ As you may have heard, another superstitious ill wind is blowing across the country. Another imaginary bug is eating up the heads, minds, and conscience of Nigerians with devastating impact on the suspects. That is the so called magical disappearance or thieving of penises. Do penises magically disappear? The answer is No. There is no evidence that people’s private disappear following a touch or a handshake. But to many Nigerians the answer is: Yes. Like all magical or superstitious beliefs, the idea of the magical disappearance of the penis is absurd. The notion of the magical theft of private part is a figment of the mind, a mind petrified by fear, and anxiety, ignorance and superstition. It is a supposition in the ‘head’ with an external impact that is brutal. Recently, a lecturer was accused and mobbed in Makurdi, Benue State. He sustained serious injuries. But you know what? He was lucky. He survived. The police intervened and rescued him. Many people accused of this imaginary offense have been beaten to death in some parts of the country. In Adamawa, the police stopped students from lynching some suspects. So our educators and educational institutions are not spared.

Even in schools, colleges, and universities, people can be accused, attacked, and lynched for the magical

disappearance of the penis in 21st-century Nigeria. What a shame!

So, we need to take what goes on in our ‘heads’ seriously. We need to critically examine what goes on in the minds of people around us. We need to interrogate narratives that are used to sanction and sanctify cruelty and savage acts in the communities. That is why, from time to time, we need to break, hang out, pause, reflect, and congregate at critical thinking corners. We need to create forums where we examine, ponder, and interrogate ideas, claims, and beliefs that often inform our actions and behaviors. Humanity cannot progress without a vibrant culture of skeptical rationality. Skepticism unlocks human possibilities, and guarantees hope for the future. Humanity’s best and brightest cannot manifest if we cannot interrogate ideas and beliefs.

So, skepticism is the handmaid of humanism.

The skeptical outlook provides a springboard for the flourishing of the humanist cosmology. Skepticism is the driver and propeller of humanist values, and undergirds a progressive ethical living. As humanists, we need to work and campaign for a more critical thinking society.

We need to invest in the promotion and application of critical thinking skills in all areas of human endeavor.

Leo Igwe is a board member of the Humanist Association of Nigeria

A

Task Before NDDC Governing Board

ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱǻ Ǽǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ To members of the NDDC Governing Board, I will rehash another cliche, it’s time to hit the ground running. There is absolutely no time for bickering among members of the Governing Board, the NDDC is in the eye of the storm, so much is expected of the commission.

In some critical circles, the NDDC is variously and sarcastically referred to as ‘Na Dem Dem Commission’ and ‘Na Dem Dem Chop’. While these sarcastic interpretations of the NDDC acronym are subject to the views of their purveyors, it is a veritable reminder that much is expected of the NDDC, more so when its primary role as an interventionist agency is considered.

Thankfully, the NDDC Governing Board has a positive trail to follow, the trail set by

T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

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

Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the NDDC who has been in the leadership of the commission since the beginning of the year. Ogbuku has been proactively engaging critical and relevant stakeholders in the Niger Delta region through the Public-Private Partnership initiative in the campaign to ensure the sustainable development of the Niger Delta region.

Over the past nine months, Ogbuku’s PPP initiative has proven to be sustainable, progressive and popular with stakeholders.

The PPP is a veritable programme that brings together everyone in sustainable development of the Niger Delta development value chain.

The PPP ensures that everyone in the value chain receives their due. It brings together; the project, the project managers and the project beneficiaries.

The PPP trail is a veritable trail I encourage the NDDC Governing Board to embrace, follow, strengthen and build on in order to write their names in marble and ensure their legacy in the sands of time.

Ebitu Oku, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

Switch Off and Walk Out

N

ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ȭ ¢ȱ ǰȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ¡ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱǻ Ǽ ȱ ǯȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ě ȱ ȱ ȱ¢ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȁ ȱ ¢Ȃǯȱ ¢ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ Ĝ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ¢ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ǯ There are of course counter arguments about freedom of speech which are valid in some cases but so little of the content is positive, productive or meaningful. Any restriction seems a backward step but, in this case, the good should outweigh the bad.

Turn off social media and turn onto real life. Go outside and smell the roses or go for a walk.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER NOVEMBER 18, 2023

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NEWS

HONOURED FOR EXCELLENCE...

L-R: Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, receiving the Excellence Award in Good Governance from the Guild of Editors presented by the Publisher and Founder of the Vanguard Newspaper, Mr. Sam Amuka, at a gala night held at the Banquet Hall, Government House Uyo, as part of activities to mark the 2023 All Nigerian Editors’ Conference

Residence Announces Exclusive Liberia President, George George Partnership with Nike Art Gallery Weah Concedes Defeat George Residence, a dis- guests. In alignment with this tinguished name in luxury vision, the company has joined Ahamefula Ogbu with agency reports

spokespeople for both candidates said.

Reports indicated that Weah After a keenly contested KDG RQ FRQÀUPLQJ WKDW KLV presidential election that opponent was ahead of him in went into a rerun as there vote tally, towed the humble ZDV QR FOHDU ZLQQHU DW ÀUVW line of picking his phone to ballot,Liberia President, George call his opponent to not only Weah yesterday conceded concede defeat but also to defeat to opposition leader, congratulate him.

“Weah has called Mr. Boakai Joseph Boakai, The concession came just to congratulate him, This is hours after polls showed the beauty of democracy,” Boakai was leading with presidential press secretary nearly all the votes counted, Solo Kehgbeh told the press

while Boakai’s spokesman, $PDUD .RQQHK FRQÀUPHG the call.

From votes tallied, of the 99.58 results declared, Bokai of UP had 814,212 votes or 50.89 per cent and Weah of CDCpolled 785,778 votes or 49.11 percent Prior to conceeding defeat

by Weah, Liberian opposition leader, Boakai was holding a VOLJKW OHDG LQ D UXQ RͿ HOHFWLRQ with 50.6% of the vote over Weah’s 49.4% after tallied

results from about 87% of polling stations, Liberia’s elections commission said.

Boakai and Weah emerged QHFN DQG QHFN IURP WKH ÀUVW round of voting but none met th 50% requirement to secure an outright victory, leading to D UXQ RͿ RQ 1RY Boakai, 78, who lost to Weah in the 2017 election, based his campaign on the need to “rescue the nation from mismanagement” by Weah’s administration.

short-term accommodations, has announced its exclusive partnership with the renowned Nike Art Gallery, a beacon of artistic excellence.

This groundbreaking collaboration brings a new level RI DUWLVWLF ÁDLU DQG FXOWXUDO immersion to George Residence SURSHUWLHV RͿHULQJ JXHVWV WKH opportunity to purchase unique artworks from their temporary home.

The luxury brand aims to provide more than just accommodations; they seek to create memorable and enriching experiences for their

forces with Nike Art Gallery, a prestigious establishment renowned for its extensive collection of African artworks and masterpieces.

“We are excited to unveil our partnership with Nike Art Gallery,” said Yanju George, CEO of George Residence. “At George Residence, we believe that a stay should be more than a place to rest; it should be an encounter with culture and beauty. This partnership allows us to provide our guests with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of African art.”

Pramod Mittal Has Only $272m of Nigeria’s $446m Ajaokuta Settlement Payment United African Methodist Church Unveils

Only $272 million of the $446 million Ajaokuta Steel contract dispute settlement payment made by the Nigerian government this year to Indian billionaire, Pramod Mittal’s Global Steel Holdings (GSH), has so far been transferred to GSH. Nigeria’s then Information Minister, Lai Mohammed, had disclosed that the Nigerian government paid $446 million to GSH’s local unit in multiple instalments under the settlement.

The Buhari government agreed to pay GHS the money

to settle a contract dispute over a deal that a previous administration said was tarnished by fraud.

7KH JRYHUQPHQW KDV MXVWLÀHG the agreement with a former unit of Pramod’s GSH, which was announced in September 2022, saying it frees the state to pursue its ambitions for the sprawling steel site.

But Bloomberg reported yesWHUGD\ WKDW WKH ODZ ÀUP KLUHG by the Nigerian subsidiary for the mediation only made six transfers from these funds to GSH’s account, totaling $272 million between October 2022

and February 2023, quoting UHSRUWV ÀOHG E\ WKH FRPSDQ\·V liquidators. ´7KH ODZ ÀUP .LQJ Spalding LLP, declined to comment on the rest of the money,” reported Bloomberg.

Bloomberg also reported that the payment by Nigeria helped Pramod’s Isle of Man-registered GSH, escape liquidation this year, over $167 million owed to Moorgate Industries Ltd., a FRPSDQ\ VSXQ RͿ IURP RQH of the world’s biggest steel traders.

It reported: “As a UK court weighed Moorgate’s request

to declare Pramod personally bankrupt three years ago, the London-based Indian national held out the prospect of a payout from the Nigerian state to clear his debt. The judge was unconvinced at the time, but the settlement subsequently reached with Nigeria last year now looks like the 67-year-old’s best route out of insolvency.

“Still, while payments from the Nigerian government have reached GSH’s liquidators, as of Oct. 4, Moorgate had yet to see any of those funds despite having asked for them, court documents show.”

YABATECH Honours Zulum, Lady Otedola, Graduates 7,717 Students Funmi Ogundare Yaba College of Technology will on November 23, 2023 in Lagos, confer fellowship awards on the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum, wife of the former Lagos State Governor and matriarch of the Otedola family,

Lady Doja Otedola and a former General Secretary of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU), Comrade Hassan Adebayo Sunmonu, for their immense contributions to education and national development.

The conferment will be at the convocation of a total of 7,717

students for the 2021/2022 academic session on at Philip Adegbile Sports Complex.

A statistic of the graduating students showed that out of the 7,717, 254 had distinction, 1,893 finished in the upper credit division, 3,940 graduated with lower credit and 1,630 in the pass grade.

The Rector, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul who briefed journalists, yesterday, on the college’s 35th convocation ceremonies for the award of diplomas, certificates and prizes, explained that there will be an interdenominational church service on November 19, at Yusuf Grillo Auditorium.

FIDSON Healthcare Announces Strategic Cooperation with a Chinese Pharmaceutical Company Mary Nnah In a bid to further add value to the healthcare landscape in Nigeria and Africa, Fidson Healthcare Plc (Fidson), a foremost Nigerian pharmaceutical company and Jiangsu Aidea Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd (Aidea Pharma), an

innovative pharmaceutical FRPSDQ\ LQ &KLQD R΀FLDOO\ signed a strategic cooperation agreement in Yangzhou, China recently.

The agreement aims to promote and address medical challenges through the use of innovative drugs especially in the treatment of over 1.9

million HIV-infected people in Nigeria.

The two companies agreed to share and combine their respective resources, technical expertise and positions in the market to collaborate on project development, market expansion, and other aspects by integrating their competitive

advantages in the pharmaceutiFDO ÀHOG Both companies will engage in multi-level and multi-form cooperation, including but not limited to product manufacturing, promotions and sales, and clinical research, involving existing products and pipeline projects.

Programmes to Celebrate 106 Years The United African Methodist Church (UAMC) has unveiled programmes of activities as the church marks the 106 years of Founders’ Day this year.

According to the Planning Committee headed by Hon. Sesan Olanrewaju, the UAMC will be 106 years old on November 27, 2023 and a series of spiritual and physical activities have been lined up starting from Wednesday 15 November with a world press conference at the UAMC Cathedral, Ebute Metta, Lagos, South-west Nigeria.

Olanrewaju said: “We have put together a series of activities that will last 19 days starting from the day of the press conference till 3 December.

“Yesterday, there was Praise Nights at the Diocesan Level in Lagos, Badagry and Ogun State, while on Friday 24 November, there will be a mega Praise Night at the organisation level at the Town Hall in Ikorodu, Lagos tagged “Rejoice and Give Praise.”

He said that 12-day fasting and prayers have been set aside to hold from Thursday 16 November - Monday 27 November. Each Diocese has been mandated to organise a break of fasting online programme.

Preliminary rounds of %LEOH TXL]]HV LQ IRXU GLͿHUent categories will be held

on Saturday 25 November at the Diocesan levels with WKH ÀQDO RI WKH TXL] VFKHGXOHG for Saturday 2 December at the Cathedral Headquarters, 40 John Street, Oke-Arin, Lagos by 11a.m.

15

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 18, 2023

RingTrue 08054699539

yemi.adebowale@thisdaylive.com

Yemi

Adebowale

Mr. President, Enough of Impulsive Economic Decisions

N

igerians woke up on October 12 to the news that the restrictions placed on 43 items from accessing forex in the official market in 2015 had been removed.

Importers of all the 43 items are now allowed to purchase foreign exchange, declared the Central Bank of Nigeria.

That was a killer punch on our sliding Naira. That week, the currency lost over N300 to the United States Dollars in the parallel market. It also depreciated greatly in the official I&E market. Since that impulsive action was taken by the CBN, it has been tales of woes for the Naira against other global currencies. That is the implication of taking decisions without critical thinking, proper diagnosis and adequate consultations.

A CBN that is struggling to boost liquidity in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market, “by interventions from time to time as part of its responsibility to ensure price stability,” has now invited importers of controversial goods to join the rising forex demand train. Here, we are talking about goods like palm oil, rice, cement, margarine, vegetable oils, meat, vegetables, chicken, eggs, turkey, tooth picks and the rest.

What a country! Maintaining the official forex restrictions on them would have helped to further boost local production.

The floating of the Naira immediately the Tinubu government assumed office was another impulsive economic action.

The government simply swallowed the illogical fiction promoted by the World Bank/IMF and parroted by local experts that the Naira must be floated in the interest of our economy. The Naira responded by collapsing. Yes, it is good to float the Naira in order to eliminate the massive corruption in the regulated forex regime. But the action must be properly planned in order to achieve a positive result for the currency. This, the Tinubu government failed to do. So, the Naira collapsed and the exchange rate in the I&E window jumped from about N460/$ in May to around N800/$ by November 17.

The Naira was floated without necessary mechanisms in place to aid it. The capacity to boost liquidity in the forex market was lacking but the government still commenced the floating of the Naira. The Naira plunged against other currencies, resulting in

Tinubu

further rise in petrol and gas prices, as well as inflation, which surged to 27.33 per cent in October. Inflation may hit 30 percent by December as a result of the floating of the Naira.

The promoted advantages of floating, such as improvement in dollar supply to the market failed to materialise. It may never happen.

Removal of petrol subsidy, the very first impulsive action the President took on assumption of office, has also not yielded the promised result. It was removed without a clear plan on how to ameliorate the subsequent pains on the people. Almost six months down the line, we are yet to start experiencing the impact of the subsidy gains on public transportation, healthcare, schools, housing and even national security. The muchtalked about flooding of the market by independent petrol marketers remains a dream. The petrol import burden is still solely on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

Yes, tough measures are very desirable in order to revive a gasping economy, but they must be well-thought out, the fallout prepared for, and all key shareholders carried along. The Tinubu government failed to do all these before removing the petrol subsidy.

The latest impulsive economic action

by the Tinubu government is the $10 billion inflows to help clear foreign exchange backlog, boost foreign currency liquidity in the economy and stabilise the Naira. The inflows are not earned forex. The government has simply decided to tie down beloved Nigeria to all manner of loans that would further compound its debt crisis.

Simply put, the Tinubu government has decided to mortgage Nigeria. How? It has decided to securitise about $7 billion of the country’s future dividends from the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG). The government will get $7 billion from a consortium led by Standard Chartered Bank in exchange for the dividends. We have not been told the number of years, but it could be as high as five years. So, no more dividends from NLNG for the next five years. If previous governments had mortgaged this regular and dependable annual revenue source, will the Tinubu government be able to do this garbage? This is food for thought for the government.

The federal government is also celebrating inflows from the $3 billion emergency loan from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), which the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) secured two months ago. Another impulsive economic decision! The NNPC signed a commitment letter and term sheet for an emergency $3 billion crude oil repayment loan. Millions of barrels of crude oil, over a number of years, have been mortgaged by this federal government, also in order to clear FX backlog and stabilise the Naira. If previous governments had mortgaged Nigeria’s crude oil with a reckless arrangement like this one, I’m very sure the Tinubu government would be heaping abuses on them.

The Tinubu government is aiming to boost Dollar liquidity by flooding the market and trying to push the Naira/Dollar exchange rate to about N800/$. Yes, Nigeria has taken Dollars loans to settle old FX forward obligations and improve liquidity. So, what happens to liquidity in our forex market after exhausting the loans used to stabilise it? Very simple: If Nigeria fails to improve forex revenue, all the problems will return to hunt us.

And honestly, I don’t know where the improved forex earnings will come

Saudi Arabia’s Nonsense against Air Peace

A

n Air Peace flight from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, via the Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano arrived Jeddah, Saudi Arabia last Sunday with 264 passengers, and they were all detained and humiliated for several hours by the Saudi Arabia authorities. The Saudis initially announced the cancellation of the visa of all the passengers and told Air Peace to return them to Nigeria.

When the Nigerian embassy waded in, the Saudis agreed to admit 85 passengers and told Air Peace to return 177 others.

The Nigerians were devastated. Their plans were ruined. Huge Nigerian money flushed down the drains by the Saudis.

Forget about the Saudis’ statement that the deported passengers did not fulfill the entry conditions “in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations of the Kingdom, as they submitted incorrect information to obtain a category of visa that does not apply to them, which was discovered upon their arrival.”

It is a ruse.

During the check in in Lagos and Kano, the passengers went through the Advanced Passengers Prescreening System, APPS, which was also monitored by the Saudi Arabia authorities before the flight left Nigeria. APPS, which is live between both countries, would have screened out any invalid visa and its passenger. The system accepted all affected passengers and passed them on. Claiming that the passengers did not fulfill the entry conditions is a boloney. Outright falsehood coming from a supposedly devout country!

The Saudis are evidently shameless.

The target of this inhuman action on Nigerian passengers is Air Peace. The strategy is to discourage the airline from operating to Jeddah. Air Peace has suddenly become a threat to Saudi Air on the route. Its flights to Jeddah are usually fully booked because of lower fares. Saudi Air allegedly complained to its government that it was losing passengers to Air Peace. That was why they came up with the demonic plan to humiliate the passengers.

The ultimate aim is to force Air Peace out of the route. Of course, when an Airline’s passengers are regularly deported, patronage will dwindle.

The Nigerian government must fight for Air Peace. No doubt, the Nigerian flag carrier helps to conserve foreign exchange for the country. I was expecting the Nigerian authorities to intervene by adopting the principle of reciprocity. Foreigners on the next Saudi Air flight to Nigeria ought to have been given the same treatment experienced by Air Peace passengers. It did not happen. The response of the Nigeria government has been timid.

“We are investigating” was all that came from the Nigerian Foreign Affairs Ministry. What nonsense! What is there to investigate again?

I’m challenging the Tinubu government to stand sturdily with Nigerian carriers designated to operate global routes. It must ensure that Air Peace is not denied its rights as contained in our Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) with Saudi Arabia. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Aviation must hold their Saudi counterparts by the jugular.

from because a substantial part of this country’s oil and gas dividends for the next five years have already been mortgaged. The Naira looks good to resume its free fall against the Dollar with a negative impact on production and employment.

Taking Dollar loans to tackle forex obligations and improve liquidity is a stupid way of tackling an economic problem. The path chosen will clearly lead to further destruction as seen from the poor value of the Naira this week.

In fact, it creates a bigger monster. It is shocking that Tinubu’s team can’t come up with alternative economic strategies to resolve this forex challenge.

The government’s responses always worsen rather than improve the situation. Tinubu should look for people capable of thinking outside the box.

Impulsive economic decisions by the Tinubu government are causing pain to Nigerians. There is massive poverty and unemployment. What about the hunger in our land? The latest UN Global Hunger Index says it all. Nigeria ranks 109 out of the 125 countries in the hunger index. “With a score of 28.3, Nigeria has a level of hunger that is serious,” says the UN. Nigeria needs measures that can stimulate production, create new jobs and improve the welfare of the people.

For me, the way forward is for the Tinubu government to take decisive actions to improve Dollar earnings and reduce Dollar expenditures. Crude oil theft is still a big problem. OPEC Statistics show that Nigeria exported an average of 1.3 million barrels, daily, of crude last month, no thanks to theft.

This is a country that can do two million bpd. We must also start earning good Dollars from solid minerals. The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, should walk his talk. Enough of showboating.

The government must swiftly work on the diversification of the economy to reduce dependence on oil and gas.

On rising Dollar expenditures, I’m not sorry to say that the federal and state governments and their agencies are largely responsible for the overwhelming demand for Dollars. They put huge pressure on Nigeria’s forex through needless foreign trips with all its Dollar components. Tinubu and his team have been junketing all over the world in the last six months: Paris Summit for the New Global Financial Pact in Paris, the G-20 Leaders’ Summit in Delhi, Stocktaking Moment Summit in Rome, Russia-Africa Summit in Russia, the G-77 summit in Cuba, the BRICKS summit in South Africa, UNGA 78 in New York, Saudi-Africa Summit, Arab-Africa Summit and the rest of them. When any Presidential aircraft parks at foreign airports, daily, they pay with Dollars. Foreign trips by government officials must be drastically reduced to conserve forex.

On the part of the citizens, the demands for foreign goods and services are frightening.

Foreign education, holidays abroad, foreign medicals, foreign drinks, shoes and clothes, the list is endless. The United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation once observed that Nigeria has the highest number of students studying abroad among all African countries. So, why won’t there be pressure on our limited forex?

The pressure on forex will persist except there is a deliberate policy to reduce the terrifying demands for foreign goods and services by Nigerians. However, a government that wants to implement this must be ready to lead by example.

16

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER NOVEMBER 18, 2023

AUTO WORLD

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

TIPS OF THE WEEK

What is Transmission Slipping?

Your car transmission slipping is one of the many issues that can arise in your vehicle.

At first, it can seem like a minor annoyance, however, a transmission slipping can quickly become dangerous.

It’s imperative to understand what transmission slipping is, the key signs of a slipping transmission, and how to prevent a slipping transmission in order to stop dangerous driving situations.

Innoson Group Chairman, Dr. Innocent Chukwuma (in a safari suit), welcoming the new NADDC DG, Joseph Oluwemimo Osanipin (middle, wearing cap), to Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company, Nnewi, Thursday, November 24, 2023. With them (L-R) are: a Manager at Innoson Group, Obinna Chukwuma; NADDC Director, Policy, Planning & Statistics, Sani Musa; friend of the Group, Jonas Ojukwu; and the Group’s Manager, Corporate Communications, Cornel Osigwe

My Visit to Innoson an Exciting Eye-opener, We Look Forward to More Partnership, Says Osanipin The Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Joseph Oluwemimo Osanipin, on Tuesday, November 14, visited Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd (IVM), Nnewi, where he was received by the Chairman of Innoson Group, Dr. Innocent Chukwuma. Innoson thus became the first automaker the new Director General visited since his appointment was announced in October. During the tour which took him to the various sections of the existing factory, as well as the site of a new plant under construction, Osanipin gave his impression and commented on other issues in the industry. Bennett Oghifo reports

T

he Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Joseph Oluwemimo Osanipin, on Tuesday, November 14, visited Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd (IVM), Nnewi, where he was received by the Chairman of Innoson Group, Dr. Innocent Chukwuma. Innoson thus became the first automaker the new Director General visited since his appointment was announced in October.

During the tour which took him to the various sections of the existing factory, as well as the site of a new plant under construction, Osanipin gave his impression and commented on other issues in the industry. Bennett Oghifo reports

What are your thoughts, having seen the Innoson factories in Nnewi?

I have visited the Innoson factory where sedans, SUVs, buses and other vehicles are being manufactured here in Nnewi. I have also come here to see another massive factory that is under construction in another part of the town. As you can see, this new plant under construction occupies a land space of about 20, 000 square metres. That

is one. Yet another one of the same size is being constructed next to it. I have come to inspect and see the huge investments, the huge capital being invested in Innoson, and know how we can come in and partner with them to know how to move the sector forward. And this is because there are a lot of potentials in the industry. From what I have seen today, I am impressed. And let me say that I am positively surprised, because I never thought we had this kind of investment here. I never knew we had this kind of expertise existing here at Innoson, and I never knew that a lot has been going on here in the industry. I have been hearing of Innoson and I have been seeing a lot of Innoson vehicles on the road, but now I think I have a better understanding of what IVM is all about Having visited and seen what is going on at Innoson, what should we expect from you in terms of impact?

The impact from this visit will be more partnership. Now that we know the capability of Innoson and know their capacity and growth plan, we are in a better position to look forward to more partnership. From what we have seen,

by February or March, this new factory under construction would have been completed and commissioned. That means that long buses and trucks can be produced here. So, we are going to have at Innoson two separate factories that can produce different ranges of products. And again today, I saw a CNG-powered long bus that can JR PRUH WKDQ NLORPHWUHV RQ D IXOO\ ÀOOHG up cylinder. These are eye-openers for us. These are things that we did not know before now that have been happening here at Innoson. So, we want to expose all these to Nigerians. We need to make these things known to everybody in Nigeria, and bring them to the knowledge of the government and make them known to WKH ÁHHW RSHUDWRUV /HW PH WHOO \RX WKDW ZH GLG a study on the cost of fuel per kilometre: While PMS (Premium Motor Spirit, also known as petrol or gasoline) is N135 to N137 per kilometre if you use a bus, it will cost between N37 to N39 if it is a CNG vehicle. This is a message we want to pass to the average fleet operators, and tell them: ‘Come and try this. Come and use these CNG buses manufactured by Innoson.’ So, we are going to talk to the fleet operators and see how we can bring them together.

Configurator Open: Pre-Sales of All-New Passat Have Started

T

he completely newly developed ninth generation of the Passat can now be ordered in the first countries in Europe. The model impresses with a new aerodynamic design, high quality and new high-efficiency drives.

Deliveries of the new Passat, which is offered exclusively as a spacious Variant model, will start in the first quarter of 2024. With more than 34 million units sold so far, the Passat is one of the bestsellers of the Volkswagen brand.

New top Volkswagen duo in the mid-sized class: with the Passat and the likewise new all-electric ID.704, Volkswagen will offer two ultra-modern product lines in the high-volume mid-sized class

in future. The new Passat is available with the complete spectrum of petrol (TSI), diesel (TDI), mild hybrid (eTSI) and plug-in hybrid (eHybrid) drive systems. With an electric range of up to 100 km and a DC fast charging function, the optimised eHybrid models bridge the gap to electric mobility – they are designed for all drivers who want to cover short and medium distances under electric power but want to complete long journeys without stopping to a charge. At the market launch, the new Passat will initially be offered with engines from the particularly successful 110 kW class (150 PS). In addition to a Passat “Business” 1.5 eTSI01 (from 44,995 euros3), the entry-level version – the Passat eTSI01 – will also be available soon02 from 39,995 euros03.

What Is Transmission Slipping?

Your car transmission system is what takes the engine power and transfers it to the wheels in order to move the car. There are a few different types of vehicle transmissions: Manual Transmissions – A manual transmission requires a clutch and gear shift controlled by the driver to perform gear changes.

Automatic Transmissions – An automatic transmission doesn’t require a clutch pedal and is able to run through perform gear changes on its own.

Continuously Variable Automatic Transmissions (CVA) – A CVA transmission type of automatic transmission that makes use of belts or chains paired with pulleys to create a smooth acceleration.

Automatic transmission slipping is one of the more common transmission problems found in an auto transmission, but it can also occur in a manual transmission.

Basically, when your transmission is slipping, it’s not properly switching gears when you want it to, or it starts switching gears when it shouldn’t be.

What Are The Key Symptoms That a Transmission is Slipping?

There are few key signs you can look out for if you’re worried about your car transmission slipping. A slipping transmission will present the following symptoms: An unusually high RPM (over 3,000) Delays in acceleration Inability to reverse vehicle Difficulty switching gears Strange noises when performing a gear change Burnt or unusual smells Check engine light is on You Can Feel When a Transmission Slips Along with the previous signs, you can generally feel when a transmission is slipping.

When you’re driving and the transmission starts slipping, you might feel a loss of power, reduced vehicle speed or some jerkiness in the controls. Overall, it can feel a bit like you’re driving on ice.

What Are The Causes of a Slipping Transmission?

There are many potential underlying problems that can cause transmission failure and slipping.

The following are the most likely to be causing issues with your car transmission.

Transmission Fluid Issues There a multiple ways that transmission fluid could be causing your vehicle problems.

First, your car could have low fluid levels.

Since transmission fluid is in a closed system, your car shouldn’t have low fluid levels unless there is an underlying transmission problem.

Low fluid levels is a big sign that your vehicle may have a transmission leak.

Secondly, your transmission fluid could be burnt. This issue occurs when your transmission fluid overheats. If this is the case, your vehicle needs to have its transmission fluid flushed and replaced.

Transmission Bands Worn or broken transmission bands can also cause a transmission to slip. Transmission bands are what link the gears together in an automatic transmission, so if there’s anything wrong with them, the bands will need to be replaced as well.

Worn Out Gears The gears in your vehicle will go through normal wear and tear over time with regular use. Gears that are worn won’t be able to properly link together, and this can cause your transmission to slip.

Interior of ninth generation of the Passat

(Source: Automatic Transmissions R Us)

17

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER NOVEMBER 18, 2023

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Omawumi Returns with ‘More’ Ferdinand Ekechukwu

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Okey Bakassi Makes First Big-Screen Project with ‘Bank Alert’ Ferdinand Ekechukwu

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Ayoola Bakare and Koya Onagoruwa, Co-founders of AYKO Agency

18

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER NOVEMBER 18, 2023

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Femi Odugbemi

Africa Magic Trusted Me As a Rookie Producer As Africa Magic celebrates its 20th anniversary, one of the household names in movie production in Nigeria, Femi Odugbemi, narrates his life-changing encounter with Africa Magic and how the platform has changed the face of storytelling in Nollywood. Excerpts:

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ow would you describe the impact of Africa Magic on the growth of Nollywood in the last 20 years?

I think the biggest impact of Africa Magic really is that it gave meaning to the work we were doing as storytellers. It legitimized our stories. You have to understand that before Africa Magic, there was a certain disjointedness about the stories we were telling. Many of us were trying to tell stories that could be validated abroad.

7KH GHÀQLWLRQ RI ZKDW FRQVWLWXWHV WKH African experience was not as cogent as when Africa Magic gave us a platform. Not only to bring all the stories we’ve been telling as Nollywood, all the stories that were out there in Idumota and everywhere, to bring them into a platform where the audiences can be beyond our borders.

What that did was that it brought a lot of meaning, a lot of pride to the stories they were telling. It brought pride to the storytellers. We felt more emboldened to reach further and tell the heritage story of Africa. And I think it built brands. By brands, I mean it built heroes, in front and behind the camera.

In an era of globalization, unless you know and express who you are uniquely in this world, you are very likely to be irrelevant. I think our cultures have been VDYHG SUHVHUYHG GLJQLÀHG SURMHFWHG DQG internationalized because a platform like Africa Magic has given us the permission, WKH FRQÀGHQFH WR WHOO RXU VWRULHV

Looking at the business of storytelling, how would you describe the paradigm shift in the last two decades?

I think Africa Magic created a legitimate economy for the storyteller. It provided an opportunity for our storytellers to license their work and be commissioned to work.

But the biggest thing was that Africa Magic SODWIRUPV SURYLGHG D OLIW RͿ SRLQW IRU D ZLGHU audience for the African storyteller. For me, the economy of storytelling is about your reach. Before the Africa Magic channels, your reach was dependent on a distributor somewhere in Idumota or Aba, who could only go as far as his own investment could WDNH \RXU ÀOP 7KH $IULFD 0DJLF FKDQQHOV delivered Africa to the whole continent, over 40 countries to each storyteller at each screening. Those are numbers that were impossible before the Africa Magic channels came.

It is helping to shut down piracy, which is important because it brought technology into a space where pirates depended on being in the shadows. Once Africa Magic would put the work up for everyone to see legally, of course, it depressed the business of the pirate. But for me, it’s less about shutting down the negative and much more about creating the positive, and I think everyone who has been around, pre and post Africa Magic would understand the entire paradigm shift that it represented.

I think it is important for us to know that even the audience was revolutionized.

Before Africa Magic, of course, we all had this impression that Nollywood is for the house girls and house boys, people who did not have anything to do. With Africa Magic, we began to see that this is a cross-generational entertainment platform in which we saw ourselves. Africa Magic made our stories a part of our everyday living, reconnecting us to who we are.

The economy of that is that many more ÀOPPDNHUV FDQ DFFHVV GLUHFW LQFRPH IRU WKHLU ZRUN DQG PDQ\ PRUH ÀOPPDNHUV are working on commissioned productions of Africa Magic, both in drama, in non-

who will take everything to another level, not MXVW LQ EURDGFDVWLQJ EXW DOVR LQ ÀOPPDNLQJ performance, and addressing the questions technology will pose. We are about to enter DQ HUD RI LPPHUVLYH WHFKQRORJLHV DUWLÀFLDO intelligence, and augmented reality, which will become storytelling tools. Initiatives like the MultiChoice Talent Factory are essential to answering the challenges of the future. I am thrilled that MultiChoice had the foresight to see 20 years into the future and prepare the professionals of 2030 and 2040. That’s what the MultiChoice Talent Factory is about.

Back in the 2000s, I was one of those ZKR EHQHÀWHG IURP VRPHWKLQJ FDOOHG ¶1HZ 'LUHFWLRQ · ,W ZDV WKH ÀUVW ÀOP RSSRUWXQLW\ IRU D \RXQJ ÀOPPDNHU WR FUHDWH D ÀOP That opportunity gave me my start in my career. This makes me commit myself to paying it forward. There is a way in which MultiChoice and the Africa Magic channels have been part of the success stories of so PDQ\ JHQHUDWLRQV RI RXU ÀOPPDNHUV DQG , DP H[FLWHG WR KDYH EHQHÀWHG IURP LW

Talking about your personal experience, can you delve a bit into it? What was your H[SHULHQFH ZLWK WKH ÀUVW VWRU\ \RX ZHUH commissioned for on Africa Magic?

New Direction was a series that MultiChoice did across Africa, looking for new voices and new directors. Everyone pitched a story. I remember famous South African producer Richard Green and MultiChoice executives came to Nigeria to oversee the SLWFK , HQWHUHG D ÀOP FDOOHG ´0DPD 3XW µ and I was excited to be one of those selected WR FUHDWH P\ ÀOP :H PDGH WKLV ÀOP RQ 35-millimeter celluloid, which was a very Odugbemi expensive platform at the time. Our budget ZDV DURXQG ZKLFK ZDV D VLJQLÀFDQW amount in 2004. You have to understand ÀFWLRQ DQG LQ UHDOLW\ VKRZV $QG created a huge community of stars. Africa ZKDW WKDW PHDQW WR D \RXQJ ÀOPPDNHU OLNH if you think of how many technical 0DJLF KDV FRPPLVVLRQHG VR PDQ\ ÀOPV P\VHOI ,W JDYH PH WKH FRQÀGHQFH WR FUHDWH positions have improved professionally WKDW QRW D VLQJOH SHUVRQ RI VLJQLÀFDQFH LQ PRUH 5LJKW DIWHU , PDGH ´$EREDNX µ DOVR since the coming of Africa Magic, this industry has not directly received a on 35-millimeter. Not long after that, a few paycheck from that platform. you’ll understand the impact. of us pitched for the daily soap, and we That’s why it was so important when the ZRQ ZLWK ´7LQVHO µ 7R LPDJLQH WKDW ´7LQVHOµ Let’s talk about the discovery MultiChoice Talent Factory initiative was is still running today is something I am and nurturing of talents. What is introduced. It allowed us to look at the deeply grateful for. the contribution of Africa Magic, next generation and provide formal training Since then, I’ve consistently had opporespecially as you were a director of RSSRUWXQLWLHV 7KH GLͿHUHQFH EHWZHHQ WKH tunities to create new work and produce MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF)? training they receive at the MultiChoice new work. I feel like I have been given Africa Magic has done a lot to Talent Factory and what they would get the opportunity to express every part of provide platforms for performers, in a typical school is that only MultiChoice my storytelling ambitions, build a core especially in front of the camera. has access to all these shows: drama, soap production team and a production company Many of the stars, the actors that opera, telenovela, Big Brother, sports shows, that I think is world-class. I’ve been able we all know today, were created on music shows, OB vans, modern broadcasting to give opportunities to new faces, new Africa Magic channels programming. equipment, and uplink technology. talents, actors, creatives, and technical people.

The students that come out of the Making these stories has been an amazing I’ll start with Tinsel. Almost everyone ZKR VWDUWHG LQ WKH ÀUVW VHDVRQ RI MultiChoice Talent Factory are not only opportunity and privilege for which I will Tinsel is now a big star in Nigeria. well-versed in theory but have been im- always be grateful.

They were unknown at the time, and mersed in the process. We are creating a daily exposure through the soap opera JHQHUDWLRQ RI ÀOPPDNHUV DQG VWRU\WHOOHUV Talking about the future you spoke earlier about how MTF is nurturing talents for the future, so what do you expect of storytelling in the few years?

I think what is clear is that Africa Magic already knows that the future is about that nexus where creativity meets technology.

I think what is important is that culture of constantly innovating, that culture of constantly raising the bar in terms of technical quality in terms of storytelling, in terms of access and reach to audiences, that culture of bringing audience measurements to the table and making storytellers and creatives accountable for the stories that are telling, that culture of impacting with stories that also matter to the psychology, politics and obviously the narrative conversations going on across Africa. I think that culture is going WR EH WKH GLͿHUHQFH

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 18, 2023

FEATURE Hensard Varsity Aims toTransform Graduates to Great Entrepreneurs Hensard University founded by the Henry Seriake Dickson Foundation, and Bayelsa State’s first private university, is berthed with a package of innovations that will make it a university of practical relevance in the global space of ideas. Led by Dileep Kumar, a former Deputy Vice Chancellor of Nile University, and a seasoned professor of strategy with a proven track record, the university explains why its cutting edge or unique selling points make it an institution of first choice, and why deserve the attention of the academia and the incoming students. NDUKA NWOSU reports:

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omething new is happening in Bayelsa State. Its first private university has been berthed in Toru-Orua, Sagbama LGAof the state. On the driver’s seat is a renowned Professor of Strategy, Dileep Kumar as its pioneer Vice Chancellor.

Kumar is coming to Hensard with an intimidating record of accomplishment. He is described as a Professor of Strategy and Organisational Behaviour, “a highly sought-after scholar, having traversed many countries and continents as a teacher of unusual brilliance including Nile University where he was a Deputy Vice Chancellor.” Kumar’s forays and accomplishments are said to align with those of Senator Henry Seriake Dickson former Governor of Bayelsa State and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Henry Seriake Dickson Foundation, that owns the university.

It is not surprising therefore that Dickson is very much involved in the launching of Hensard University in his capacity as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Henry Seriake Dickson Foundation, the anchor point of the institution.As a two-term governor of Bayelsa State, Dickson’s hallmark achievements got the highest thumbs up in education where he was recorded to have spent over N200 billion in education infrastructure alone with among other things the establishment of two universities which are set to compete with Hensard in terms of value and standards.

Dickson made education free and compulsory to all Bayelsans. Books, boarding, and tuition were free as well as feeding while university students were granted loans and scholarships and teachers had a robust reward system particularly those posted to the rural areas. The Dickson Administration was recorded to have spent over N200 billion on education, a budget that could have fetched the N67 billion Bayelsa International Airport three times.

There are five universities in Bayelsa State, one a federal university in Otuoke, home of former President Goodluck Jonathan, there is the pioneer university-the Niger Delta University in Yenagoa, the state capital, University ofAfrica, Toru-Orua, and the Bayelsa Medical University in Yenagoa. Hensard University in Toru-Orua Sagbama happens to be the most recent and only private university in the state Its lofty aspirations and high calibre academic team the founding fathers have set up for it, may well set it apart as a global institution to watch. Its motto, vision and mission, and course contents capture the story of an institution in a hurry to be identified as a university of the future. The authors of the university pose a probing question to the curious parents and sponsors who would want to take advantage of its lofty ideals and course contents.

What makes Hensard unique, what are the advantages of coming into the university to study?

According to them: Hensard students will enjoy a rare combination of academics, practical skills, industrial exposure, and mentorship designed to equip them with real-world experiences and entrepreneurial skills poised to transform graduates to entrepreneurs and wealth creators with industry-oriented skills.

There will be dual certifications, international collaborations, and partnerships to ensure standards, and exposure of the students to renowned mentors and leaders in various fields, globally.

Others are: Collaborations and partnership with universities, institutions, and industries A worldwide scholars’ programme with

Dickson

What makes Hensard unique, what are the advantages of coming into the university to study?

Hensard students will enjoy a rare combination of academics, practical skills, industrial exposure, and mentorship designed to equip them with realworld experiences and entrepreneurial skills poised to transform graduates to entrepreneurs and wealth creators with industryoriented skills rigorous academic experience intertwined with unique opportunities that tap into global academic resources and expertise Global academic network of lecturers using cutting-edge technology to deliver lectures in Hensard’s smart lecture halls Exposure of students to national and international seminars and conferences through Hensard’s Institutes and Centres of Excellence.

Mentorship of students by global leaders from international, and corporate advisory boards The International Board of Governors comprising global leaders in government, academia, business, and research will provide students with a unique combination of diverse mentoring experiences.

These are to be coordinated by the carefully selected Hensard team of international faculty and staff with vast experiences that will create a truly robust academic community of students,

staff, researchers, visiting academics, and global leaders who are committed to extending the frontiers of knowledge for society’s sustenance.

Hensard has proposed 12 Core Values for the guidance of its students to help them become “ethical, honourable citizens, leaders and servants to God and humanity, as encapsulated in Hensard’s motto, “Qui Servit Homo, Servit Deo (He who serves man, serves God).

Hensard University in its words of vision and mission, “aspires to be a top-tier academic, research, and entrepreneurial university, producing ethical and responsible students and professionals who are committed to sustainable development.”

Hensard’s robust mission is also about today, the future, and its ability to be a key player whose contributions would be meaningful and obvious.

Development, exploration of knowledge and its responsible deployment to enhance humanity’s existence, we are reminded, are some of the issues Hensard’s mission by way of emphasis is to impact society in a transformational way – locally, nationally, and worldwide, to transform students through innovative teaching and entrepreneurial exposure.

According to Kumar, “Hensard seeks to transform students through innovative teaching and entrepreneurial involvements that promote life-long learning, research, and development for the progress of society; it will seek to promote inclusive sustainable development through · collaboration with prestigious national and international institutions, sharing ground-breaking research, teaching and learning experiences.”

So, from the get-go, the university’s emphasis is research that will benefit mankind and make living easy and enjoyable.

The university insists it will make available state-of-the-art facilities for blended project and problem-solving learning, accomplish leadership in each discipline while reinforcing inter-disciplinary and industry driven education, that will transform theory into practice.

Part of its mission statement robustly emphasises it would act as a global, open marketplace of ideas where students are free to challenge any notions, presumptions, customs, cultures, traditions, or biases to advance the pursuit of new knowledge and the advancement of society. It will also increase cultural knowledge by providing opportunity to study languages, cultures, the arts, and the ramifications of social, political, economic, and technological development.

It will also produce ethical students and leaders with a sound personality, character, enduring emotions, and intellect for better service to society. “With our unique international, industry, advisory boards, and linkages, we facilitate effective mentorship to avail students with current knowledge for them to become global citizens.

Hensard University is committed to its vision and mission,” the mission statement stresses.

On his appointment Kumar said: “I am glad to be in Hensard University as we start the unique transformation of people so that they can improve society. Hensard would be at the forefront of seeking out new frontiers of knowledge in the search for answers to challenges humanity faces.

Our research centres, institutes, international linkages, dual certifications, and the dedication of my colleagues are available as we commit to serving our students and communities the Hensard advantage.”

Kumar is being assisted by Professor Prekeyi Tawari-Fufeyin, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, “a results-oriented Environmental Management professional with a background in pollution studies and environmental toxicology, community development and partnerships. She

was a Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Director of External Linkages and Director of several University Centres at different universities where she has supervised over 10 PhD students, over 25 M.Sc. students and over 60 B.Sc. students and over 60 published articles in academic journals.”

Again, we are told that Hensard University strongly promotes the philosophy and principle of internationalisation to enhance our students’ experiences and talents through global knowledge, evolving technology, resources, culture, values, and interconnectedness.

The university has signed academic and research memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with various institutions and research organizations to incorporate foreign perspectives into the curriculum, teaching methods, research, and extracurricular activities. The university provides opportunities for students to learn foreign languages and intercultural skills, enabling them to interact with researchers, resources, and locations worldwide. Students also have the chance to travel abroad to gain a better understanding of global institutions, academic and research programmes, and industrial organisations. This experience allows them to engage with diverse cultures. Hensard University says it warmly welcomes international students to enroll in academic and research programs.

The University, it says, has established excellent IT infrastructure in all teaching departments, hostels, libraries, administrative blocks, health centres, multipurpose halls, conference halls, and other offices to meet the information and communication technology (ICT) needs of students, staff, and faculty members.

“The entire campus is well-connected with a combination of wired and wireless networks. The university has a 1 GBPS connection, providing a 150 Mbps internet connection free of charge to instructors, researchers, staff, and students for 24 hours. Hensard University also provides email accounts through the university’s internal mail system. A comprehensive surveillance system with high-end cameras and a central monitoring system ensures 24/7 CCTV coverage of the entire campus. “It provides spacious, clean accommodations and offers students a variety of food options, recreational facilities, and a calm and conducive learning environment. Separate and secure hostel facilities are available for both boys and girls, with special attention given to roundthe-clock safety and security, particularly for girls.”

Like every modern institution of higher learning, the university recognises the importance of providing up-to-date knowledge, support of research and innovation activities for students and faculty members and has established a central library and an e-learning centre. The library continuously procures, and updates benchmarked collections with the latest publications.

It is also committed to providing a diverse range of excellent dining options that cater to the interests and dietary needs of its students. The university’s food courts offer ethnic, local, and international cuisine. It boasts of having provided world-class infrastructure, including spacious seminar halls with a seating capacity of 200 for large events, well-equipped classrooms with chairs, tables, LCD projectors, and computer-aided systems, air-conditioned classrooms, departmental and central libraries, exceptional residential facilities for students, and faculty accommodations.

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SATURDAY NOVEMBER 18, 2023 • T H I S D AY

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 18, 2023 • T H I S D AY

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 18, 2023

POLITY

Okwuoza: Afreximbank Has Made a Difference in Africa The Chief Executive Officer of Oilserv Limited, a leading EPC company in Nigeria, Emeka Okwuoza, in this interview with select journalistsattherecentlyconcludedIntra-AfricanTradeFair2023inCairo,Egyptgavekudostotheorganisersofthefair,Afreximbank, charging the continental bank to scale up its initiatives to promote intra-African trade. Excerpts: You are a participant in the $25 billion Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project. Why do you intend to participate in this big project and at what stage are negotiations? ilserv Limited, which is a group of companies, is one of our major companies known as Oilserv, which is an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction, EPC, company in pipeline facilities. We have been in business since 1995 and we have built our capacity as the largest Nigerian EPC company in pipeline facilities whether gas or oil. We have built a lot of pipelines. Currently, we have a portfolio of more than a billion dollars of pipeline EPC works. Prominent there is the AKK pipeline, which is the Ajaokuta, Kaduna, and Kano pipeline. Against the backdrop of this, we believe that we are the most qualified company in Nigeria, possibly Africa, to participate as an African company in the Nigeria-Morocco pipeline.

I know that the project is still in the initial phase, feasibility is what I believe is going on at the moment. At the end of the feasibility, a full scope of the project will be put together and there will be tendering for the EPC works. From what I hear, that will happen sometime next year. We are not in control of the process, we know about it by asking for information from the promoters.

We believe strongly that we are in this position because our participation will help drive Africa’s development, not just in terms of infrastructure development but capacity building within Africa.

metres section. That is the only way you can carry them in a truck. You can only carry two or three, a maximum of three in one truck. Do your calculations and you will see how many thousand trucks would have to do that on the road. Logistics is an issue and we are dealing with it already. Security is a major concern. You know the peculiarities of the region, but we have strong support from the Nigerian security agencies.

We are able to continue working but it creates delays because you have to only restrict yourself to working at a certain time.

Funding has been touted as a problem. Yes, it could have been a problem but NNPC has been able to tackle funding and as I speak to you, funding isn’t an issue because NNPC is being able to fund the project despite the fact that the portion of the project that was supposed to come from China didn’t eventually come, but NNPC is funding it.

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Where are we on AKK? AKK has gone far enough for us to say that before next year, AKK will be completed. Like any project of its size, it is a 40- inches, 614 kilometres pipeline. We are constructing 303, which is about half of that, and it is not just about construction, we did the engineering design. We procured all the materials and we are constructing. A project of that magnitude comes with challenges, but we are structured to deal with the challenges. Sometimes people ask why it hasn’t been finished, building a pipeline through every inch of a territory isn’t as simple as putting it on paper.

Okwuoza At the last count, we have more than 1500 people working on that project. You can imagine its scale, the kind of security that has to be put in place, and the logistics system we have to put in place. The project is moving and we are strongly working with the owner of the project, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, to deliver the project.

What is the percentage of completion?

I can tell you the percentage, but it won’t do justice to the work done. Because when you look at the scope of a project, it includes documentation, it includes all kinds of things that are not physical work but happens at the end of the project. If you look at pipeline welding, we are close to 80 per cent, but for the overall project, we are about 60 per cent. The remaining 40 per cent isn’t physical work to be done because it involves documentation and that is what makes up EPC. Can you let us know some of the challenges? Are these challenges in any way delaying the work’s delivery?

I won’t say delaying, but it impacts the schedule or the timeline that we are looking at. The challenges are mostly around logistics. You can imagine very clearly when you talk of 640 kilometres of pipeline, the line pipes used, come in a 12

As a result of the war in Ukraine, European Unions, EUs, have increased their gas orders in Africa. Looking at the population in Africa, do you think it can solve Europe’s energy conundrum?

The easy answer is to say yes, but Africa has loads of resources and what is important is the development of the resources in a cost-effective manner. If these resources are developed, it is enough to take care of African needs and Europe. Actually, the positive side of taking care of European needs is that it enables finance to come in for more development of the resources. Another important thing is that African countries will need to focus on internal development. Nobody will do it for Africa, it has to itself. If we have a proper interconnection of our resources, logistics, and human capital movement, I can tell you that Africa will be unbeatable because our resources are enormous and the resources have not really been touched much. So, we live in a global world and there will be trade.

We give some to Europe and we take some from Europe and other parts of the world. Europe presents a good opportunity for energy development of African resources and I believe that it is enough to go round.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

Bisong@60: Religion, Critical Thinking and Nation-Building Francis Damina

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ev. Fr. Prof. Kekong Bisong who clocked 60 on November 9, was my teacher back in the days at St. Joseph Major Seminary Ikot Ekpene.

As we celebrate him, it is important, even at the risk of repeating myself, to make the point that in knowledge and in character, he is perhaps one of the finest wines that the Catholic Church has brewed. Like Bishop Kukah, “he is a man of God and of intellect. In him dwells the irreconcilable tension between detailed realism of logical reasoning and abstractions of divine beliefs” (Apologies to Damola Awoyokun). As I recently said of him ...” he is a good advertisement for the Church. He is not a scholar and a saint only, but also a controversialist.

As a distinguished Philosophy Professor, he does not only fancy controversies; he creates them. On this, I can safely say that he is a brewery of controversies.”

Whenever he went up to the pulpit to preach, the atmosphere became mute so much so that you could hear the musings of ants. Mute because, we knew he will disagree with even what Jesus had said in the Scriptures. But only to agree later. He does not only disagree for disagreeing sake; he disagrees so he will have reasons for agreeing. It was he who taught us how not to follow the crowd, subscribe to groupthink, belief system, conventional wisdom, etcetera, until when there’s a justification or a raison d’etre.

No doubt, anytime Kekong is mentioned, you immediately know that he belongs to a generation of fine priests like George Ehusani, Matthew Kukah, Godfrey Onah, Cletus Gotan, Emmanuel Badejo, Kris Owan, Anthony Akinwale, John Uba Ofei, Peter Tanko, Joseph Mamman, John Odey, Philip Gaiya, etcetera. It is in this class of priests that we see the evidence in proving that scholarship is a property of the Catholic Church and that all others are merely involved in plagiarism. Though this may appear like an overstretched hyperbole, it is simply a case of not calling a spade by some other names.

One thing that is common among the likes of Kekong is that they are highly controversial. In other word, they subscribe so much to critical thinking that you may think they are dissenters. Of them, master wordsmith, Dan Agbese, would say “I can think of no Public lectures or speeches delivered by them that left the accumulated dust of our placid sense of outrage undisturbed.”

At first, (in my infantile days) I thought Kekong and

Bisong his likes were unnecessarily being critical and controversial until I recently met Archbishop Matthew Ndangoso of Kaduna Archdiocese who said: “Even heretics are important to the Church because they help the Her to be precise and unambiguous in exercising Her teaching authority.”

Without exaggeration, of all that we were taught back in the seminary, the one thing I mostly appreciate, which I think distinguishes us from all others as a special breed, is the ability to reason critically. Deliberately, we disagree, disobey, doubt, deny, and debunk ideas so that we can always get to the facts. And no doubt, Kekong Bisong was our chaplain in this apostolate of denial. And I still wonder why his name is not Thomas - the very scientist who invented a machine called Methodic doubt or denial.

There is a litany of events that brought me face to face to him unveiling him as a critical thinker and I am tempted to mention a few. Though one had already been narrated elsewhere, I think it is harmless repeating it here for obvious reasons.

On one occasion, when he came to the class, he told us a story to validate his point on what he called ‘necessary disobedience’.

He started by asking who discovered the mouth of river Niger.

Of course, all of us said Mongo Park. He then went on to tell us of a boy who was preparing for a common entrance interview. Fortunately for him, his uncle is a member of the panel and had whispered to him that he will be asked ‘who discovered the mouth of river Niger.’ Of course, the conventional answer even among university Professors is that Mongo Park did.

The day came and the boy was again reminded of the

name Mongo Park before he departed home to the venue.

The interview had started and it was his turn to answer questions. His uncle’s eyes were all on him when a panelist asked: ‘Who discovered the mouth of river Niger?’ ‘My grandfather’, the boy answered. The uncle was so disappointed as the boy keeps repeating ‘my grandfather.’ A member of the panel then went further to ask him why he thinks the answer is his grandfather. He replied: “My grandfather was a fisherman who lived around New Bussa long before Mongo Park arrived. He definitely knew about the mouth of the river before Park. Only that he was not literate enough to tell the story.”

All the panelists were amazed and clapped for the boy.

This is what Kekong Bisong called necessary disobedience.

For him, the work of the teacher is not to produce conventional ideas and then expect the students to reproduce same at examinations. It is rather to train the mind in challenging beliefs and conventions so as to ascertain what is true and real.

Second was after lunch on a Saturday in the seminary. I was strolling to the Canteen when we met. He then said: “I was told about 3 of you from Kafanchan weren’t ordained Deacons. Whatever you may have done, I saw you the other time going to confession. I am sure God Has forgiven you.

Why then is the Bishop or whoever is responsible angry with you by proxy and on behalf of God?” He immediately went away. The meeting, like a miniature scene of the annunciation, left a feeling in me as to why we should have been thought something like the theology of vocations, and the troubles of vocations akin to mostly Africa.

Night came and morning too. It was another Sunday and Kekong was to preach at Mass. In the gospel, Jesus had asked His disciples to love one another. When he mounted the pulpit, he said: “Jesus asked us to love one another as Christians. But for me, loving one another is not a virtue.

It is rather an instinct because I have seen the Monkeys in Boki loving and defending one another. If we want to be true Christians, then our love most transcend the boundaries of our communities, tribe, region, religion to even our enemies. Yes, we should show love to even our enemies by praying for them as Christ admonished us to do.”

With the death of Father Nicholas Ncha Obi of Ogoja Catholic Diocese who was billed to speak at a National Eucharistic Congress, Fr. Kekong told us how he was asked to fill in the vacuum. Of course, it was a gathering of who is who in the Nigerian Catholic Church.

Damina, a student of religion and society, wrote from Kaduna and can be reached via francisdamina@gmail.com Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 18, 2023

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POLITY Caverton Expands, Acquires First Bell 429 for Operations in Cameroon

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averton Helicopters, an aviation firm engaged in contract charters, shuttles and maintenance of fixed and rotary wings aircraft has acquired a new helicopter for offshore operations in Cameroon.

The helicopter, Bell 429, is the first of its kind to operate in West Africa in the oil and gas market.

Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. company, announced the signing of the purchase agreement with Caverton Helicopters.

Senior Vice-President, International Sales for Bell Textron, Patrick Moulay said, “Caverton’s choice to introduce the Bell 429 into its fleet not only demonstrates the strengthening of our relationship with Caverton, but also the Bell 429’s ability to exceed the critical requirements of West Africa’s offshore utility market. The hard-working men and women who are the core of the most important industries in West Africa will come to count on the Bell 429 to ensure mission success” Caverton Helicopters is a subsidiary of the Caverton Offshore Support Group Plc (COSG), which is a fully integrated offshore support company providing aviation and marine logis- L-R: Contract Manager, Caverton Cameroon, Francis Aremu tics services to businesses operating in the oil and and Regional Sales Manager, Africa and Middle East, Bell Hegas industry in Nigeria and across West Africa. licopters USA, Mr. Khalid Mashhour, during acceptance of a Bell 429 Helicopter in Caverton’s facility in Douala, CamerChief Operating Officer of Caverton Offshore oon... recently.

Support Group, Rotimi Makanjuola said: “Having

operated a variety of Bell products across our operations over the years, we are excited to continue with this brand, synonymous with excellent performance.

Introducing the Bell 429 into our fleet is an exciting milestone for us and will enable us to provide the best support for our oil and gas clients across the continent.”

There are currently more than 450 Bell 429s operating around the world, with over 602,000 global flight hours.

The Bell 429 keeps crews safe in treacherous environments and protected from wear, combining a large multi-mission cabin with impressive speed and modern technology to provide capabilities that are critical to operators around the globe.

Caverton Helicopters is the largest indigenous aviation logistics support company in Nigeria, with over 19 years’ experience providing fixed wing and rotary wing services to the oil and gas industry.

The company currently operates a mixed fleet of aircrafts across multiple locations in Nigeria and West Africa.

Caverton’s capabilities also extends to the provision of third-party rotary and fixed wing Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services at its facility in Lagos. The company is also an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) and provides ground and flight training courses.

GOtv Excites Customers with All-Round Joy Festive Offer MultiChoice has unveiled its festive season campaign for all GOtv customers. The campaign, tagged ‘GOtv na Joy All Round’ brings a diverse range of exciting and entertaining content tailored for the holiday season through its existing channels and designated pop-up channels.

Tope Oshunkeye, Executive Head of Marketing, MultiChoice West Africa, said the GOtv festive offer is one that customers will truly enjoy. He stated, “We are thrilled to bring the ‘GOtv na Joy All Round’ offer to

our subscribers this holiday season. Our goal is to create an immersive and delightful experience for families to enjoy together. The holiday pop-up channel, along with our diverse range of content, ensures that there’s something for everyone during this special time of the year.”

The pop-up channels will feature a carefully curated selection of shows that capture the true spirit of the season, including favourites such as The Experience, Unusual Praise, Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival, and the Calabar Rocks Music Concert.

L-R: Managing Consultant, Simply Exponential, Mrs. Fayo Williams; Founder, Flourish Africa, Apostle Folorunso Alakija; Lead Consultant, The Teal Tree Company, Mrs. Ibukun Omololu and Chief Executive Officer, Nimfate Global Services, Mr. Fatai Olayemi during the 7th Annual Flourish Africa Conference held in Lagos recently...recently

L-R: Creative Director and Event Organiser, APPOEMN, Dr. Chinwe Attoh; Co-founder of Knit and former Senior Special Assistant to the President on Education, Fela Bank-Olemoh; Technical Lead, Knit Technologies, Tunde Opalaye; and Media Personality, Tomike Adeoye during Knit App Launch at Knit Technologies, Lagos …. recently

From now till December, shows such as Festival of Champions, The Experience, Calabar Music Rock Concert, Festival of Carol and Nine Lessons, Cultural Parade, and Naija’s Most Wanted will air at various times on GOtv channel 49 while Unusual Praise 2023 will air on GOtv channel 28.

The festive campaign offers all GOtv subscribers content that evokes the warmth and cheer of the season, from now to 31 December 2023.

Subscribers can reconnect to GOtv using the MyGOtvApp or by*288#.

L–R: Country Director, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Chartered Institute of Management Accountants ( AICPA & CIMA), Ijeoma Anadozie; Student, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife (OAU), Oluwasanmi Giwa; Student, OAU, Oluwafemi Ajogolo; Student, OAU Faith Omodara; and one of the judges, Japona Das during the presentation of cheque to the students of OAU as winners of the Chartered Global Management Accountants, CGMA Business Leader Challenge organised by AICPA & CIMA in selected Nigerian Universities, held in Lagos…. Yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R: Prince Asamah Kadiri, SAN; Mr. Olawale Akani SAN and Chairman NBA Benin Branch Mr. Nosa Francis Edo-Osagie at the Book Launch/Reception ceremony of retiring Hon Justice Fatima Omoro Akingbami, JCA held at the Court of Appeal premises Benin City recently.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER NOVEMBER 18, 2023

EXPRESSION

MEDIAGAFFES

Self-criticism an Antidote

EBERE WABARA

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O you read, write and speak the English language with ease and confidence? Or do you confess to moments of embarrassment when faced with its exasperating uncertainties?

Today you can test yourself on the grammar of the English language, its punctuation, spelling and vocabulary offered as a series of interesting quizzes. For answers: send an email—no calls and no short messaging service (SMS). Readers, it is hoped, will regard the tests as companions in their building up of knowledge of ‘‘correct English’’ in order to express themselves confidently through speaking, reading and writing.

If you can answer every question correctly then your English is superb! Even if you can only answer a small proportion correctly your English may still be good, and you will have a lot of fun improving it in the process.

The function of grammar, which is defined as ‘‘the general term for the science of language’’ is to examine and explain how words are formed, inflected, spoken, written, and arranged in sentence. But people spoke and wrote the language long before they formulated rules for speech and writing so grammar must be kept in its place as the servant, not the master or dictator of language.

Language is always changing; the solecism (grammatical errors) of yesterday may be the accepted idioms of today, sanctioned by common usage.

BY

At the same time, if we have a concern for the beauty and precision of correct English, we should remember that there are grammatical laws which do not change, and violation of them cannot be justified or condoned. ‘‘To deplore the misuse of words and phrases by lazy thinkers and slipshod writers is not pedantry.’’

In each of the exercises, a pair of sentences has been chosen to illustrate a common error in popular usage. Can you say in each case which sentence is too preferred, and what is wrong (according to the old rules) with the other sentence?

1.(a) Every room, attic, cellar and garage was searched by the police. (b) Every room, attic, cellar and garage were searched by the police 2. (a) None of his old friends were able to help him (b) None of his old friends was able to help him.

3.(a)Neither the British team nor the French team was successful in the athletics contest. (b) Neither the British team nor the French team were successful in the athletics contest.

4. (a) Your birth certificate as well as your passport is required. (b)Your birth certificate as well as your passport are required.

5. (a) I would never recommend those sort of films. (b)I would never recommend that sort of film.

6. (a) She’s one of those girls who always look attractive. (b)She’s one of those girls who always looks attractive.

7. (a) The two old campaigners always wrote to one another on the anniversary of the battle. (b)The two old campaigners always wrote to each other on the anniversary of the battle.

8. (a) Are there less children in the village school today? (b)Are there fewer children in the village school today?

9. (a) The tycoon’s estate was divided between his three surviving children. (b) The tycoon’s estate was divided among his three surviving children.

10. (a)If either of the suspects is seen, he will be arrested. (b) If either of the suspects are seen, he will be arrested.

11. (a)‘Nothing shall ever come between you and I,’ he told her. (b) ‘Nothing shall ever come between you and me,’ he told her.

12. (a)I was introduced to the Chairman and the Vice Chairman of the Company. (b) I was introduced to the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Company.

13.(a) Can you imagine him forgetting a date like that? (b) Can you imagine his forgetting a date like that?

14. (a)They are players who I think will one day be famous. (b)They are players whom I think will one day be famous.

15(a) If you were him, what would you think of her conduct? (b)If you were he, what would you think of her conduct?

The October People

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ctober is a great month when great stars and remarkable achievers are born. In fact, science has argued forcefully that children born in October have many great attributes: “Studies show that babies with October birthdays have strong minds and bodies” - live longer, more driven, and less allergic.

What’s more, more American presidents were October babies; and even more distinct, more award winners were born in the 10th month!

In the same vein, a “study published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine found that babies born in October and November performed better than those born in other months on tests of strength, stamina, and cardiovascular fitness.” Yet another study says October children are most likely to be successful and wealthy (greening from ear to ear… are you still guessing the reason?)

Below are excerpts in salute of some of our October stars: LANRE HASSAN Still teaching by leading the ropes and acting her roles efficiently and relentlessly - Lanre Hassan Adesina (Iya Awero) has logged six decades at the acting portals. Well, she was part of the Young Star Concert Party around 1964 - and that was not the beginning of her romance with drama. Reportedly born October 3, 1950, she incredibly started acting barely in her teenage years (at 14 yrs) in an era when theatrical displays were set aside for vagabonds.

At 73 years old this year, she has seen it all.

A founding member of Ojo Ladipo’s group, Awada Kerikeri, etc, the inevitable “Maami of Yoruwood” is a virtual irreplaceable in the sketch of presentations of Yoruba dramaturgy. She has also amassed work in the English medium of the art with surprising elasticity - a totem to an undying thespian spirit.

SUNDAY OMOBOLANLE, MFR Ironically, this vendor of raucous mirth and disguised buffoonery, is also extremely withdrawn

and introverted.

The well-liked actor, playwright, comic, director and producer, Sunday Omobolanle would be 70 in October, next year; and by his own admittance, he swayed into acting after watching Gbekude, a weekly drama on NTA 10, performed by “students of the University of Ife” (possibly the Ori-Olokun Players). From an apprentice pharmacy assistant, he joined the Ojo Ladipo Theatre Group in the early 70s.

Soon, he was faced with an ultimatum thrown by then leader of the group, Ojo Ladipo: face theatre full time or quit. He chose to drop out of the pharmacy, forever.

By the time Ojo Ladipo died in 1978, Omobolanle had entrenched himself into the group as A ‘ luwe’, the swashbuckling, multi-clothed jester. The name-tag, phrasing his thought, was not original. The actual inspiration was by a man jocularly called Aluwe, from his pharmacy world, whose facial contortions and postures evoked laughter, in spite of not uttering a word of comedy. And Aluwe was reborn. The ‘Papi’ that completes the moniker was added by King Sunny Ade at the Ariya nightclub where Omobolanle frequented as a guest and fan.

And it stuck: Papi Luw .

But he is not all guffaws and comedy; he has played non-stereotypical roles which attest to the possibility that there could be a life outside of Papi Luwe. He played Baba Mero in the emotionally charged Omi Lo Danu (1978), a commemorative stage play in honour of the group’s fallen leader, Ladipo (the original Baba Mero). Osuntunde in Kannakanna, and another role in kun Alagbara are similar arguments about his ability to deliver outside the Aluw bubble.

With the demise of Ladipo, the need arose to re-strategise; the group changed to Awada Kirikiri, and Adebayo Salami, aka Oga Bello, was appointed the new leader. The group soon surged into different areas of performing arts: television, celluloid, and later, video productions.

IDOWU PHILLIPS If it were left to her, she would have probably

retired as Chief Matron of Lagos State, years ago, seeping the adulation of friends and enjoying the perquisites of high-grade pension. But the young nurse and mother was married to the head of Osumare travelling theatre. Widowed at 42 (to her first and only husband, Augustine Ayanfemi Phillips who died in 1984), she was bumped into acting slightly less than two decades earlier. The fortuitous entry occured when a Glover Hall performance by Osumare appeared doomed with the lead actress missing. Right after School of Nursing on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, young Esther secured a job with the Chest Clinic of the Lagos Island General Hospital. Her interest in her husband’s work was aloof, and tolerant at best. Yet, that day in 1965, with barely any time for rehearsals, and aided by hindsight of practised tolerance of the Osumare Theatre needs and demands, the 23-year old nurse stepped in for the ailing lead, and delivered a virtuoso performance that led Hubert Ogunde, the mentor of Femi Phillips and a guest at the show, to reportedly say: “you have an ‘instrument’ at home...use it!”. And her fate was sealed.

This began her romance with acting which passed the 58-year mark this year. Two years after the demise of her husband, she resigned from her job in 1986, to focus on acting, and nursing the legacies of the Phillips. Again, on the advice of Ogunde.

Now popularly known as Mama Rainbow, a sobriquet derived from the Yoruba translation of Osumare (i.e. rainbow), the title of her husband’s group - a concession she claimed was for the benefit of her Igbo-speaking admirers. With the dwindling fortune in travelling theatre, and stirrings in portable transmission of theatrical pieces, she has since been a trailblazer in the video world…even at 81!

TAIWO HASSAN He probably has done more than 300 movies in Yoruba language, but I doubt if any, in that circuit, can snatch at the laces of his effective and unusual admixture of guts, emotions and pathos in Tade Ogidan’s action drama, Owo

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

16. (a)Playing the guitar, his dog howled all the time. (b)While he was playing the guitar, his dog howled all the time.

17. (a)The secretary said he’d written back without delay. (b)The secretary said he’d wrote back without delay.

18 (a) Candidates are advised to carefully and methodically read the instructions. (b) Candidates are advised to read carefully and methodically the instructions.

19. (a)They used not to allow such goings-on here. (b)They didn’t used not to allow such goings-on here.

20. (a)If I was wrong, I’d be the first to admit it. (b)If I were wrong, I’d be the first to admit it.

21. (a) We never have and never will yield to threats. (b) We never have yielded and never will yield to threats.

4. (a) This low-fat spread tastes as good as if not better than butter. (b)This low-fat spread tastes as good if not better than butter.

22. (a)In competitive sport, one can’t afford to rest on his laurels. (b) In competitive sport, one can’t afford to rest on one’s laurels.

23 (a) I can’t stand the heat as she can. (b) I can’t stand the heat like she can.

Source: ‘Correct English’ by J.E. Metcalfe and C. Astle.

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

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

Blow (1998).

This landmark movie was shot barely three years after he resigned from some technical job at an unnamed water corporation (possibly Lagos State)... to focus full time on acting. And what a blast off!

His usual didactic and benevolent preachments in many of his several movies were a million miles from the plots and delivery of Owo Blow.

This experience radically transported him to different planes of emotional connections with his audience.

In his neck of the woods, Hassan has been a darling of producers and directors, as he deploys his considerable talents in advancing ordinary stuff or weak plots, to a level of relative general appeal. At 64 (on October 31), Hassan still maintains a boyish visage with greys of experience to stay on top of his game for many years.

NSE IKPE-ETIM She took to the University of Calabar stage with aplomb in the early 90s as a teenager. No wonder Nse Ikpe-Etim comes across as natural on screens, and her unambiguous simplicity; though her forthrightness in occasional public statements may be disconcerting to some people.

The lady who started off with Emotional Crack (2003?) doesn’t strike me as one who worries much about what strangers think or dwell on. Ikpe-Etim garnered awards for her role in Emem Isong’s Reloaded (2008), and excelled in many other choice flicks. Lovers of this 49-year old dame will always appreciate her calm and articulate delivery of roles, and her unwavering strength of personal character.

DAKORE EGBUSON - Exceptional actress with what appears to be a carefully manicured lifestyle - seemingly determined to excel in life - at her own pace - and a force of nature in things editable. Astute.

3

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

18.11.2023

Ola Aina

Creating Tracks in the Forest

NEWS

FOUR STRAIGHT WINS IN SIGHT PAGE. 25

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 18, 2023

26

GLOBAL SOCCER

Ola Aina tries to stop Arsenal’s winger, Bukayo Saka from making a cross when Nottingham visited the Emirate Stadium for a Premier League encounter

Ola Aina Creating Tracks in the Forest Playing both at the right and left back, Ola Aina has been one of the top performers for Nottingham Forest this season and consolidated his effort with a classy goal in Tricky Forest’s 2-0 defeat of high-flying Aston Villa penultimate weekend. It therefore came as no surprise when the Super Eagles defender was voted the club’s Most Valuable Player of the Month for September

O

la Aina joined Nottingham Forest in the summer on a one-year deal following the expiry of his contract at Italian side, Torino, having previously played in the Premier League during a loan spell with Fulham in the 2020-21 season; he said: “It’s exciting to be back playing in the Premier League. It’s the best league in the world and I always want to challenge myself.”

Indeed, it has been exciting time for the Chelsea Academy product since moving to the City Ground and has been one of the club’s top performers since the start of the season even consolidating his defensive solidity with a goal against Aston Villa two weeks ago.

The Nigeria international defender side-footed a fantastic finish to give the Tricky Trees the lead at the City Ground with a well worked move and has voiced his delight at grabbing his first goal for Nottingham Forest in their 2-0 win over Aston Villa.

It is Forest’s first win in their last seven league games and the perfect response to their 3-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield the previous week.

Speaking to Sky Sports (via BBC) after the encounter, Aina was pleased with the win, and he confessed he would cherish his goal for a long time.

“Massive win. We were disappointed last week, but today we are happy; we fought for each other and got the win,”

Aina said.

“My goal was one to remember. I am happy to get off the mark and help the team. We can all be proud; we stuck to the game plan, we dug in and fought for each other.”

While it is Aina’s first goal for Forest, it is his third goal in the Premier League.

Aina was certainly not signed for his goalscoring prowess. In his only previous full season of Premier League football, he netted twice in 31 appearances for Fulham.

However, the 27-year-old clearly has an eye for goal when the opportunity presents itself.

His finish against Villa — a low, accurate shot into the bottom left corner from just outside the box, resembled that of a confident striker.

Such was the quality of his effort, Aina earned praise from former Liverpool and England centre forward Michael Owen.

He said: “You’d expect a ball like that to be hit with the laces from 25 yards out, but it’s actually a very controlled finish hit with the instep.

“It’s a side-foot finish and I’m a big advocate of that- I think people go for power far too much. It’s a really good finish.”

Aina has played on both the right and left flank for Nottingham Forest Forest will hope there are more goals to come from Aina but his primary job in the team is to defend and provide attacking support in wide areas.

He has done that impressively so far this

season, playing on both the left and right side of Steve Cooper’s rearguard.

His versatility has already proven useful, with Aina equally capable of playing a defensive role in a back four or operating in more advanced areas as a wing-back in a five-man defence.

The Nigeria international has made plenty of important pragmatic contributions too.

Only Willy Boly (34) has won more possessions in the defensive third than Aina (26) for Forest in 2023-24.

And with 16 tackles and 19 completed clearances to his name, Aina has played a big part in his team’s solidity.

Aina has contributed to two clean sheets for Nottingham Forest so far this season Cooper’s side are growing in confidence after a tricky start to the campaign.

The 2-0 win over Villa was evidence of their progress as they kept a third clean sheet in 11 games and shut out one of the division’s top scorers in Ollie Watkins.

Having started eight league matches since his move from Serie A side, Torino, there is little doubt that Aina has been key to the improvement.

Back in September, he said: “The games have been tough but I feel like for myself and the team, it’s good to see where we’re at.

“I feel like we haven’t done too bad against the bigger teams, it’s been a challenge but it’s been a good one.

“It shows the leaps and bounds the club

has taken within just one season. It’s good to see we are competing and we do feel strong, so it’s good to have that feeling.”

Interestingly, Aina has been voted as Nottingham Forest’s Player of The Month for September, the club announced on Tuesday.

According to the club, Aina received 40 per cent of the total votes cast by fans.

He succeeds compatriot, Taiwo Awoniyi, who won the award in August.

In the month under review, Aina featured three times for the Tricky Trees when they beat Chelsea 1-0 at Stamford Bridge followed by a 1-1 draw at the City Ground against Burnley and a 2-0 defeat to Manchester City.

The 26-year-old has made a positive impression since joining Forest on a free transfer following his departure from Torino, featuring five times in the current Premier League campaign.

In an interview with the club’s website, Aina said he was enjoying life at the City Ground.

“It’s been fun. I’ve enjoyed every bit of it so far. The staff, the players, the city itself, it’s been really good to me so far and long may it continue.

“I was the first to arrive this summer and it was fun, I had Taiwo and Emmanuel Dennis here, who I know from Nigeria, I knew Morgan and Harry Toffolo too, so it was smooth sailing.”

Aina has been capped 30 times by Nigeria, having made his debut in 2017. He played for England at youth level.

27

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 18, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER

High-flying Lobi Stars Target NPFL Fourth Straight Win against Enyimba Kunle Adewale

N

igeria Premier Football League leaders, Lobi Stars will tomorrow take on defending champions, Enyimba of Aba at the EnyimbaInternationalStadium, Aba in what no doubt will be the pick of the Matchday 9 of the NPFL. Having defeated Enugu Rangers, Bayelsa United and Sporting Lagos in a row, the Pride of Benue will however want to make tomorrow’s encounter against the People’s Elephant their fourth straight win in the league.

Though the league’s defending champions have not been too impressive this season having lost three matches in the league so far this season but will not be an easy nut to crack for Lobi Stars when both sides clash tomorrow.

The Finidi George’s side would quickly want to get back to winning ways against Lobi Stars after losing 1-0 to Kano Pillars at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano, to Abba Adam’s second half strike last weekend and losing by the same margin to Doma United mid-week at the Pantami Stadium, courtesy of Hilary Ekawu’s goal in the 17th minute.

The Markurdi side would however be boosted by injury to Enyimba defender Chigozie Chilekwu who has been ruled out for three weeks with a groin injury after being stretchered off against Kano Pillars last weekend.

The player missed the Aba giants’ rescheduled matchday four fixture against Doma United on Wednesday which Enyimba suffered a 1-0 defeat in the encounter.

Before his injury, the 27-year-old left-back had featured in all of Enyimba’s league matches this season.

Chilekwu is expected to miss the week nine and 10 matches against Lobi Stars and Heartland, respectively.

The reigning NPFL champions occupy 17th position with seven points from six games.

Meanwhile, Lobi Stars goalkeeper, Atsaka Daniel has urged his teammates not to get carried away by the recent success of the

Lobi Stars’ Joseph Atule shields the ball away from Rivers United defender, Kazie Enyinnaya

team.

The Pride of Benue currently top the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, table with 17 points.

Atsaka encouraged the team to work harder in subsequent matches.

“We are taking each game one after the other. We are not carried away with our results so far in the NPFL. The team still have a lot of work to do in subsequent matches,”

he told Lobi Stars Media.

However, Lobi Stars defender, Sunday Chinedu, has revealed that the club’s target is to secure a continental ticket at the end of the 2023-24 NPFL season.

Chinedu got the lone goal for Eugene Agagbe’s side in the win against Sporting Lagos last weekend.

The former Kano Pillars player expressed confidence in the team’s

Remo Stars vs Akwa Utd Kicks-off Live Telecast of NPFL Matches on StarTimes The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) is set to return to television screens with a bang as Remo Stars take on Akwa United in a highly anticipated match-up tomorrow at 4pm.

This electrifying clash will mark the inaugural broadcast on StarTimes’ newly launched High Definition (HD) Beta Sports channel, signaling a new era of live NPFL coverage.

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

Football fans nationwide are eagerly awaiting the resumption of live NPFL telecasts, and this blockbuster encounter promises to deliver an unforgettable spectacle. Both Remo Stars and Akwa United are renowned for their attacking prowess and passionate fan bases, guaranteeing an enthralling contest.

“The return of live NPFL broadcasts is a significant step forward for Nigerian football, providing fans with an unparalleled opportunity to experience the league’s excitement and drama.

StarTimes’ commitment to air the NPFL highlights the company’s dedication to promoting the sport and fostering a

vibrant football culture in Nigeria,” Joshua Wang, CEO StarTimes Nigeria, said.

The match will be aired exclusively on StarTimes’ Beta Sports channel, Channel 244, ensuring that fans can enjoy the game in stunning clarity and high definition (HD).

‘The return of live NPFL telecasts is a momentous occasion for Nigerian football, and the clash between Remo Stars and Akwa United is the perfect way to kick off this exciting new chapter. Fans are encouraged to tune in to StarTimes’ Beta Sports channel 244 tomorrow at 4pm to witness the NPFL’s electrifying return to television,” Mr Wang said.

Rangers Boosted by Trio’s Return Ahead Katsina Utd Clash Kunle Adewale Ahead of Rangers International F.C of Enugu’s matchday 9 NPFL 2023/2024 fixture against Katsina United at the Awka City Stadium, tomorrow, the technical crew of the Flying Antelopes has received a boost to the squad available for selection as three players that had been out due to injuries and bereavement are back to the squad.

Kalu Nweke and Chinemerem Ugwueze, who have missed almost half of the already prosecuted matches due to various injuries sustained while defending the club’s colours, are fit for selection for this weekend’s fixture.

Naziru who has been missing in action due to the sudden death of his loving mother late last month and traveled to join other family members to give her a befitting burial returned to training and showing signs of fitness to make the club’s supporters proud in the remaining fixtures of the season.

Auwalu while appreciating his teammates, management, and coaches for their solidarity during his most trying moments, said, “I am delighted at the show of solidarity you all showed me when I lost my mother. I thank you all and may Allah reward you all for the support which was very handy in my painful moment.”

ability to maintain their position on the summit.

“Our utmost priority is to secure a continental ticket at the end of the season,” he said in a post-match interview.

“We have st a r t e d a g o o d m o v e a n d w e a re h a rd t o a c h i e v e i t . We b e l ieve we are going to maintain our position on the table.”

Lobi Stars’ comeback victory over Bayelsa United in Yenagoa last weekend sent them to the summit of the league for the first time since matchday 19 of the 2019/20 season. They eventually finished fourth after 25 games in an abridged format.

NPFL TABLE Team 1 Lobi Stars 2 Remo Stars 3 Enugu Rangers 4 Doma Utd 5 Shooting Stars 6 Plateau Utd 7 Insurance 8 Abia Warriors 9Kano Pillars 10 Sport Lagos 11 Katsina Utd 12 Rivers Utd 13 Sunshine 14 Kwara Utd 15 Gombe Utd 16 Tornadoes 17 Enyimba 18 Akwa Utd 19 Bayelsa Utd 20 Heartland

P 8 7 8 8 8 8 7 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 6 8 8 8

W 5 5 4 4 4 4 3 4 4 3 3 2 2 2 3 2 2 1 2 0

D 2 0 2 2 2 1 3 0 0 2 2 3 3 3 0 2 1 4 1 5

L 1 2 2 2 2 3 1 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 5 4 3 3 5 3

Matchday 9 Fixtures TODAY

Doma Utd v Plateau Utd 15:00 Insurance v Kwara Utd 15:00 SUNDAY

Gombe v Niger Tornadoes 16:00 Akwa Utd v Remo Star 16:00 Bayelsa Utd v Sunshine Stars 16:00 Enugu Rangers v Katsina Utd 16:00 Enyimba v Lobi Star 16:00 Rivers Utd v Abia Warriors 16:00 Shooting Stars v Kano Pillars 16:00 Sporting Lagos v Heartland 16:00

Pts 17 15 14 14 14 13 12 12 12 11 11 9 9 9 9 8 7 7 7 5

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 18, 2023

28

GLOBAL SOCCER

Super Eagles on Redemption Mission against Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe Coach, Brito ready for Nigeria’s clash

Lesotho defence thwarted everything thrown at them by Super Eagles attackers

T

he Super Eagles of Nigeria on Thursday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, fluffed the chance to go top of Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier table as they could only manage a 1-1 draw against a lowly rated Crocodile of Lesotho in spite of the three-time African champions heavily favoured to triumph.

With Thursday’s draw, the Super Eagles are condemned to win their next game against the Warriors of Zimbabwe at the Huye Stadium in Butare, Rwanda, tomorrow to be in good stead of qualifying for the 2026 Mundial after missing out of the last edition in Qatar.

Against the general opinion that Super Eagles underestimated their Thursday opponent culminating in their 1-1 draw, the team’s defender, Semi Ajayi, has refuted the claim.

The match saw Lesotho seize an unexpected lead with Motlomelo Mkhwanazi’s goal in the 56th minute and despite creating multiple chances, the Super Eagles struggled to capitalise until Semi Ajayi equalised for the home side.

Speaking to the press post-match, the West Bromwich Albion defender adamantly denied any underestimation.

“Absolutely not. We took this game very seriously; we gave our best; we didn’t take them lightly,” Ajayi asserted.

Reaffirming their preparation and dedication, he stressed the team’s seriousness in facing Lesotho and their commitment to learning and improving from the experience.

“We prepared for the game as we prepare for every game. I think we’re

just unfortunate not to take a few chances, but we’ll learn from this and we’ll definitely come back stronger in the next game,” he added.

Interestingly, Lesotho coach Leslie Notsi has revealed that they were able to get a draw against Nigeria because they studied the Super Eagles very well before the game.

“We did not give them respect. We said no ‘they are the same human beings like us, let’s go there for enjoyment,” Notsi said at the post-match presser.

“But the enjoyment we are talking about is not to just go and waste time.

But the self-belief should be there, and they should express themselves in the areas that they are good at.

“We followed the team, we saw the video clips, and we saw areas that we could capitalise on.

“There is a lot that we have learned from this match, so we have to improve on that moving forward.”

Meanwhile, normalcy has returned into the Warriors camp after players were paid their camping allowances and appearance fees, allowing them to return to training ahead of their qualifier against Nigeria.

Players had on Thursday downed tools and refused to go to a scheduled training session in protest over unpaid daily allowances and appearance fees.

But the standoff has since been resolved after the ZIFA Normalisation Committee (NC) transferred money into the players’ bank accounts on Thursday night.

Zimbabwe will be looking to get their campaign off the ground with a win over the Super Eagles after they were held to a goalless draw by minnows

Rwanda in their opening group match at the Huye Stadium on Wednesday, with Nigeria also looking for their first victory of the campaign following a surprise 1-1 home draw against Lesotho on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the ever-bungling Zifa Normalisation Committee have made an unprecedented move by blocking the traveling journalists from covering today’s Warriors’ training session.

ZIFA are angry with the media for reporting of Thursday’s training boycott.

However, Manager Jose Peseiro has criticised Fifa over the 2026 World Cup qualifiers scheduling, which would see the Super Eagles complete their November internationals a day after South Africa’s opening game in Group C against Benin.

On paper, Bafana Bafana are Nigeria’s biggest rivals of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and Peseiro is of the opinion that the South Africans have been handed an advantage by FIFA’s imbalanced fixtures list.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, the Portuguese football tactician said: “We didn’t prepare well, even the players didn’t rest well because some players came on Monday, others on Tuesday.

“We could not train with intensity in that moment. Yesterday we trained but not with intensity because we must play today. For that I ask why the match was scheduled for Thursday.

“Next three days my team is going to play Zimbabwe. Why should South Africa play tomorrow, we played today.

Why? I don’t know.

“Our team is the best in the group, we drew but I think we will win the

next match but our players must make sacrifices.

“They fought today. The ball didn’t go in, bad luck for us. We are going to give a response against Zimbabwe even if we don’t rest well.”

Prior to the kickoff of the Lesotho encounter, a member of the team that failed to book the Qatar ticket, Omeruo has charged his colleagues to use the disappointment of missing Qatar 2022 to fuel their ambition to qualify for the next edition.

“Most of us in the team still remember how painful it was not to be part of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar,” the Kasimpasa defender told ESPN. “The memory lingers but then, that is gone. This is a fresh opportunity, and we all want to be at the next one.

“This is a serious matter for us. We are working hard to do what we have to do to get to the next World Cup. We’ve played Lesotho and Zimbabwe in the past.

“The important thing is to stick to our game plan and take the game very seriously because we have to win both games.”

The result of Thursday match however showed that his warning was not heeded.

How well the Super Eagles respond in tomorrow’s showdown against Zimbabwe remains to be seen.

GROUP C 1 2 3 4 5 6

Team Lesotho Nigeria Rwanda Zimbabwe Benin South Africa

P 1 1 1 1 0 0

W 0 0 0 0 0 0

D 1 1 1 1 0 0

L 0 0 0 0 0 0

GROUP C FIXTURES South Africa v Benin 1500

SUNDAY

Zimbabwe v Nigeria 1500

TUESDAY

Rwanda v South Africa 1500 Lesotho v Benin 1500

P 1 1 1 1 0 0

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ NOVEMBER 18, 2023

29

GLOBAL SOCCER

Super Eagles shortly before the match with Lesotho

Nottingham Forest sweating on Awoniyi

Sports Minister, Enoh, Urges Super Eagles to Beat Zimbabwe

Nottingham Forest Dealt Awoniyi Injury Blow

After Super Eagles dropped two points in their 1-1 draw with Lesotho on Thursday in Uyo, Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has urged the Nigeria Football Federation to look into and correct all the lapses observed in the opening game of the 2026 World Cup qualifier when Nigeria play Zimbabwe on Sunday in Rwanda.

“On Thursday the 16th of November 2023, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium , I joined sports loving Nigerians to watch and cheer the Super

Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi faces another potential spell on the sidelines after he has withdrawn from international duty with Nigeria over a groin issue according to the Nigerian FA. The news will be a huge concern to Nottingham Forest with the striker only recently returning from a similar injury.

Awoniyi has scored four goals

Eagles of Nigeria play against the Likuena” (Crocodiles) of Lesotho.

“A clean sheet and goals was not too much to expect from our national team given our FIFA ranking and pedigree in football, matched against the Lesotho team especially.

“I must say, that our expectations were high, albeit the performance of the Super Eagles against Lesotho fell short,” observed the Minister.

Enoh stressed that the Federal Government and football loving Nigerians take the qualification

for the 2026 World Cup very seriously and want the Super Eagles to qualify. “ Having missed out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, qualifying for the 2026 World Cup is not negotiable.”

The Sports Minister expressed displeasure over the inability of Nigerians to watch the clash with Lesotho live on television.

“Furthermore, we understand that the qualifiers are a FIFA organised competition, and so the television broadcasting rights are in the World football governing body’s purview.

Everton Get 10-point Premier League Deduction for Financial Rules Breach Everton have received an immediate 10-point deduction after being found to have breached the Premier League’s financial rules.

English top-flight clubs are permitted to lose £105m over three years, and an independent commission found Everton’s losses to 2021-22 amounted to £124.5m.

The punishment is the biggest sporting sanction in the competition’s history and leaves Everton 19th in the table.

The club said they were “both

shocked and disappointed” and would appeal.

The Premier League referred Everton to an independent commission in March but did not reveal the specifics of the club’s alleged breach.

That month, Everton posted financial losses for the fifth successive year after reporting a £44.7m deficit in 2021-22.

They admitted to being in breach of the profit and sustainability rules (PSR) for the period ending 2021-22, and the

commission found in favour of the Premier League following a five-day hearing in October.

In a statement, Everton said: “The club does not recognise the finding that it failed to act with the utmost good faith and it does not understand this to have been an allegation made by the Premier League during the course of proceedings.

“Both the harshness and severity of the sanction imposed by the commission are neither a fair nor a reasonable reflection of the evidence submitted.

Prophet Olu-Alo Predicts Brighter Future for Adamimogo FC Players Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti The planter of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Adamimogo Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain Worldwide, Prophet Sam Olu Alo has prophesied that big football clubs in Europe and America would soon scout for players in his team, Adamimogo football club of Akure.

Speaking to Journalists after a football match between his team and the Nigeria Immigration football club of Ado Ekiti, he urged Nigerian youths to take advantage of their talents in sports to develop and earn careers for themselves.

The cleric also urged the youths to always contribute their quotas to the development of their people, communities,

and the nation.

Olu-Alo noted that the government alone cannot meet the numerous needs of the people and provide all the required infrastructure in the communities.

“I am happy that they did very well in the last season of National League One (NLO).

My advice for the players is to be hardworking and focused. I have promised the players and the team management that in the next few months, some football scouts will be coming from Europe to get the talented ones among them. So, they should see footballing as real profession just like Okocha, Ronaldo, and Messi of this world for them to excel in it.”

“Youth empowerment

through sports like this one, scholarship, vocational training, and provision of working tools for those who had learned one trade or the other.

“As we are being blessed

by God, one can also assist in the areas of education, health, and others. Health facilities, classrooms, and libraries could be built in all these communities, if put in place, the lives of our people will be positively affected.”

“I am always happy because they are doing well beyond my expectations and not up to a year that we assembled the team, 3SC football club of Ibadan signed up one of them. It means the players of the Adamimogo FC have a bright future ahead of them.

GB Foods, Lagos Country Club Tighten Friendship with Tennis The synergy between GB Foods and Lagos Country Club was further deepened recently as the 2023 GB Foods Lagos Country Club Tennis Championship was held.

A record 93 participants took part in the tournament which lasted 13 days with eight categories contested for..

While reaffirming GB Foods commitment to the nutritional wellbeing of Nigerians, GB Foods Brand Manager, Bama Mayonnaise, Bright Mgbemele said the Lagos Country Club as a leading

family recreational club in Nigeria connects with the values of GB Foods in promoting love and friendship among families.

“For us, it’s beyond partnership; its beyond marketing but a commitment at overall wellbeing of Nigerians at large,”Mgbemele said.

Marketing Manager, GB Foods, Foluke Femi-Sanda said the company is delighted to be promoting family union and friendship alongside a reputable brand as the Lagos Country Club.

GBFoodsarethemakersofBama Mayyonaise, Gino Tomato paste, Jumbo seasoning cubes and other food products and in demonstrating their renewed commitment; prizes were given to participants from the quarterfinalists of each category.

Tennis Section Chairman Babatunde Fashanu (SAN) commended GB Foods for sustaining their sponsorship, pointing out that an improved sponsorship reflects their true commitment to the programme.

and provided two assists for Steve Cooper’s side so far this season.

But the 26-year-old may now be facing another spell on the sidelines after his withdrawal from the Nigeria squad.

“Taiwo Awoniyi has left for his base due to pain in the groin and returns to England tonight after discussions

between his club doctors and Super Eagles medical team,” a statement from the Nigerian FA said.

Forest will be sweating over Awoniyi’s fitness ahead of their next Premier League clash on Saturday, November 25. The Reds take on Brighton at the City Ground before another game at home when they face Everton a week later.

Iwobi Confident of Good Outing for Eagles against Zimbabwe Super Eagles midfielder, Alex Iwobi, has told Nigerians that the team will continue to fight in a bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the opening game draw against Lesotho.

The Fulham man featured for the entirety of the game yesterday evening, albeit in a less expressive role in the centre of the park, but like every other Nigerian, was left dissatisfied with the result.

Lesotho are currently ranked 153rd in the latest FIFA rankings, with their best-ever position be-

ing 101, while the Super Eagles are ranked 40th in the world, with their best-ever finish being amongst the top five, ranking in 5th place.

The hugely anticipated fixture was marred by Nigeria’s inability to be clinical in front of goal as Awoniyi, Lookman and others scuffed chances to open the scoring before Motlomelo Mkwanazi opened the scoring for the visitors.

Semi Ajayi equalized for three-time African Champions, but that was what their best on

the day could do. Iwobi took to his X page to apologise for the result, and promise that the team will continue to fight to be in America in 2026.

“Not The Result We Feel We Deserve, But We Can’t Dwell On This, Got Many More Games To Come. We’ll Continue To Fight and Push,” the ex-Arsenal man posted on his X page.

Peseiro’s men have a chance to gain the trust of the fans again if they can secure all three points at the Stade Huye in Zimbabwe on Sunday.

Nigeria Leaves Indelible Mark at 13th African Archery Championship The Nigerian Archery Team has successfully completed its campaign at the 13thAfricanArchery Championship in Nabeul, Tunisia which ran from November 7 -12th.

The continental championship had in attendance 20 African countries who competed across all the bow categories and events.

The Nigerian Archery Team, comprising of Emmanuel Oyekele (Captain), Olatayo Olasehinde, Damilola Sholademi and Kachollom Eyenihen, competed in the Compound Bow category and in

the individual men and women’s event, male team event and mixed team event. The team won a bronze medal in the male team category, silver medal in the mixed team category (male and female) and a bronze medal in the individual female category.

Recall that the team won two silver medals in Pretoria, South Africa in 2022. This would be Nigeria’s first and highest achievement in Archery since the sport started in Nigeria.And this year, the country has won two bronze medals and a silver medal

by the same set of archers.

This Archery team has been selffunded since their first appearance on the continental scene in 2022 and they have continued to do so till date.

There are several international championships annually that these archers need to attend to maintain their global rankings.

This is a call on well-meaning individuals, corporate organisations to assist and fund this brilliant team to bring more glory globally to Nigeria in the sports of Archery.

Provazios Sports Academy Opens Ikeja Centre Waves-making Provazios Sports Academy, has continued to spread its sports developmental gospel across Lagos State, as it set up a new sports centre in Ikeja, last week Saturday.

Provazios Sports Academy, with sports centres of excellence in different parts of Lagos, including its Magodo flagship, opened the new centre located inside the sports arena of Lagos State Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, to hundreds of excited boys and girls, and of course, impressed parents.

Speaking during the official

launch and unveiling of the Ikeja centre, proprietor of the sports academy, Segun Solanke, expressed his delight in seeing the large turnout of excited kids and parents at the event.

“I’m impressed by this large turnout of these highly impressionable young boys and girls. It shows that they are ready to develop their various innate talents in sports and entertainment, which we offer here at Provazios Sports Academy.

“We have top quality sports coaches, instructors and teachers

who have continued to work in line with our dreams of producing top class athletes in football, judo, karate swimming, basketball, athletics and dancing, for the benefits of the country.

Solanke, who is also the president of NLO side Olumo United, thanked the parents and guardians of the kids for entrusting the future sporting development of their kids and wards to his sports academy.

Even as he promised to improve on the developmental efforts of Provazios Sports Academy on the kids.

1XBET CUP: Players Commend Sponsors for Tourney Ighalo FC’s Yusuf Fawaz has said that the 1XBET Cup has helped him showcase his talent, commending the sponsors for instituting the tournament for grassroot teams.

Fawaz, who is currently leading the scorers chart with eight goals, noted that playing with other teams has given him the confidence to approach future

games.

He said he was ready to score more goals against Bariga FC in the final on Thursday, adding that the ultimate goal is to win the trophy and the cash prize.

“First, I must commend 1XBET for this tournament, it shows that they are a company that connects with the environment they operate.

I hope to win the competition with my team and also emerge as the highest goal scorer,” he added.

While also thanking 1XBET for giving the participating teams the opportunity to take part in the tourney, Uchenna Okoronkwo of Bariga FC, said he would strive hard to ensure his team wins the competition.

30

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER NOVEMBER 18, 2023

PEOPLE Men are the Problem of Nigeria, Says Adaora Sidney-Jack, Author of ‘Politics, Pussy and Power’ A television presenter, Adaora Sidney-Jack in her new book, “Politics, Pussy and Power”, which has sparked controversies,saysapartfromthefactthatsexdoesnotsellinpolitics,theneedtochangegenderstereotypes against women must be deliberate as Nigeria’s traditional setting risks passing the baton of ’masculanisation’ of politics to the next generation amongst other glaring red flags. She spoke with Kuni Tyessi

W

hat served as motivation behind ‘Politics, Pussy and Power’ and what do you hope to achieve at the end?

It started with elections. I ran in 2019 to represent my constituency, Okigwe Constituency at the State House of Assembly and prior to that, I had been actively involved in gender advocacy, reconstruction of the mindset especially within the female space and changing stereotypes within gender norms and having fought it using the media through my space, I felt that one of the ways to bring the conversation to a larger space was to run elections, so that we can have a larger space of young women who will also benefit from that leadership and also to participate. So going deeply into the murky waters of politics, my eyes opened into the layers of conversation on stereotypes and negative gender identity, and I thought that one that came to the fore was on issues where certain stereotypes have been normalized against women and seemingly looked at as the norm.

The only way to change that was to tell the truth as it is. First was the sexualization of the female gender and how it cuts across from film, music, politics and how the consideration for nocturnal meetings seem enabled to prevent women from participating in politics because it’s in the night. However, some of those things were constrictively done so that women will be seen to be in that space and then those Sidney-Jack narratives are used against them.

The idea that women attend meetings at night makes them less good wives, partners, and mothers, or that they are wayward, limit spaces for women when it comes to or more experiences?

Sexual molestation has different spaces randy, and the words like prostitute are socialization.

What the book hopes to achieve is that and identifications when you want to explain brandied. So, there is a lot of emotions using gender stereotypes against women. This is it helps to re-orientate, de-stereotype and it. You have the emotional, abusive, yet nonone of the fore. So, I thought this was very uncover the biases and tell it as it is. Until we physical. So, you’re limited and cannot come important, having walked across different own our truth and tell it as it is, nobody will to certain spaces and meetings; you’re denied gender lenses in the space of main streaming fix them. My state is immensely patriarchal to know the appropriate meeting time for gender, principally using digital, social and and very few women thrive in politics. Those certain meetings and it’s when decisions traditional media, one of the things I have who have thrived are labelled. Coming up have been taken that you’re told, and it is often come across are the issues on the as the first female and young girl within just so that you can be discredited and narrative that depict women negatively. I that conversation at the time that I ran, told that you’re not serious and ready to spoke widely to a lot of my older female exposed me to some of the biases. So, if play politics. There are different levels and mentors and this was something that I I’m going into the murky waters of politics I faced all of them. The only one I would say worried about. But then I didn’t want to again, I am not going there to undo some quite frankly, and probably coming from the disguise the element of truth. I was tired of the narratives and taking myself as the space of the media, everyone knew that I of baby-sitting the narrative and we keep guinea pig in the process and this was just have cheer leaders, mentors and people who will rise at the snap of a finger. So, coming speaking in our boxes and corners- gossiping, what I did in bringing out this book. to me physically with sexual harassment bashing and gnashing our teeth, but then Are you in anyway saying that you were would have been, perhaps, the end of anyone when we come out, we act normal and the process is been normalized with the hope exposed to sexual molestation when you who tried to do it because there will be that it will take time to change. In order went into politics and can you share one visible attacks and I wouldn’t be the only one for things to pass and get the treatment they deserve; we need to sharpen them.

So, for me, the title of the book was a way of saying enough of the pretense and behind the door conversation and this Tell me, if the men are not the problem of Nigeria, will is what it is. If women can take the bold step and critically look at the narratives WKH\ GLVFUHGLW WKH ÀIW\ SHUFHQW RI WKH HQWLUH SRSXODWLRQ" that have shaped us negatively, we can then begin to unlearn certain things and 7KH\ GHQLHG WKH FXUUHQF\ RI \RXQJ JLUOV WKDW KDYH EHHQ reshape the minds of those who are really VH[XDOO\ DEXVHG DQG WKHLU DELOLW\ WR KDYH D YRLFH 7KHLU ignorant about it. Basically, it was for the demystification of social aberrations that action was also a way of saying ‘yes to rape and yes to has hindered the female space for a long time. When people use the word- pussy, JLUOV RXW RI VFKRRO · ,V WKDW QRW PHQ DJDLQVW 1LJHULD" the first thing they think is either it’s a female genital or somebody who is weak 0HQ DJDLQVW WKHPVHOYHV 'LG WKH\ QRW WXUQ GRZQ WKH or in different cultural contexts, it means different things. In the Australian culture ÀYH JHQGHU ELOOV DQG E\ VR GRLQJ WKH\ KDYH GHQLHG for example, it means a garment of honour and this applies to other cultures. But the JHQHUDWLRQV RI JLUOV WKH DELOLW\ WR UXQ LQ HOHFWLRQV DQG way, it has been woven to depict something negative and I think it was deliberate to DFWXDOO\ PDNH D JRDO IRU WKH H[WUD VHDW ELOOV

to-do the attack as the whole community of women will be at it. So, the best way for them to do it is to increase emotional abuse and deny me access to network of several things. I think for me, when you do that, you’re not only breaking the fabric of the self-esteem of the woman, but making her question the reason behind her choice to run in the first place. Those kinds of things can limit, break or totally excommunicate to the point when she says she no longer wants to be involved.

But as I was going through this process, I was recording. I had a diary from the first day that I resigned from work down to the time that I ran for elections and finished. I have over eight diaries where I penned down my pre and post-election experiences and they serve as angles of healing. When you are over with the elections, you come out scarred and sometimes experience private trauma that you can’t share with people. There are silent pains that makes you question why you had to run and to what benefit.

Those are processes women go through.

I went through that and I’m still healing.

It’s not a day’s journey healing for women who come out of elections without winning.

The trauma women go through is not just about losing financial capacity, but losing certain levels of network. Some lose relationships, friends, family and some lose self-identity. Some people give everything by throwing their all into the ring and when they come out, they’re lost and don’t know where to start. Those are the kinds of things I had to grapple with and come back to base to say- this is a story not just for me, bur for other women, particularly young women to learn, and it will either shape them to want to come back and try again, or they stay away to grapple with pain and emotions and thinking that the worst has happened and denying the capacity that we carry to those who can earn from it in terms of servitude.

So, I can tell you that the worse kind of harassment is the one which you cannot see and unveil, but you’re dealing with it in your quite corners. You’re also worried about safe spaces- who do I tell and who do I not tell? How do I express this and what will be the outcome? It was a lesson learned and if I have to go through it again to learn lessons and come out stronger, then I’ll do it again. Until I had to go and run, I thought it was easy. I thought it was about semantics and doing campaign and saving some money.

In fact, I had a campaign budget and knew what I wanted to spend. But when you get into the election proper, the budget you have just becomes a to-do-list. By the time you begin to unveil what you need to spend in an election, you’ll know that election is a bank. The experience and evaluation of the process is enormous. Sharing some parts of the book with some people and the process of writing it was an uncovering for me and it was therapy for me too. In writing, I felt a certain kind of relief and it’s something other women can try to do generally. This, I would recommend for anybody.

Do you think you would have won if you had mortgaged your sexuality?

Even those who did, some did not win!

Sexuality could be for both men and women?

Who said the men are also not mortgaging their sexuality? Why must it only be women?

It is a patriarchal society and this is expectedly so.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

31

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2023 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

BACKPAGE CONTINUATION DRIVING NIGERIA’S ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION AND DIVERSIFICATION Purpose, Processes and Performance. In Nigeria, where both public and private sectors play a significant role in the economy, we have to take a holistic view and expand the discussion to cover governance in the public sector. That was why the original National Code of Corporate Governance developed by the Financial Reporting Council in 2013/2014 when I was the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment had three parts: codes for the private sector, public sector and the not for profit organisations. The public sector governance code was meant to cover all MDAs, state-owned entities, all parastatals and all government commercial agencies.

What is the Role Of Corporate Governance In Economic Diversification And Transformation? Let me highlight a few key aspects of how corporate governance can drive Nigeria’s economic transformation and diversification: Attracting Investment: Nigeria needs substantial investments to develop and diversify its economy. In fact, the attainment of the National Development Plan 2021-2025 will require an investment of about N348.1 trillion and 85.7% of that is expected to come from the private sector. It is fair to say that Nigeria’s ability to attract investments into critical areas 3 of the economy has not been more important than now and the quality of the corporate governance in both the private and public sector will be a major catalyst.

Today we talk about the NLNG as the bird that lays the golden egg because of its remarkable success and its ability to diversify the economy and attract investments. A lot of the success, can easily be attributed to the strength of the corporate governance practices that were put in place by its owners 51% of whom are multinational oil companies. The success story of the privatisation and the transformation of the telecom industry will also not be complete without the mention of the strong corporate governance at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the role of the Board led by the late Alhaji Ahmed Joda, the former Chairman of NCC and Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, the CEO at the time and who today, is the chairman of this session of your conference. We need to replicate this privatisation in other sectors.

Another example I gave in my book is the Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC), a Saudi Arabian multinational corporation that was established in 1976 by Aramco (Saudi Arabia’s NNPC) with an investment of $1.8 billion. Today, it is the second-largest diversified chemical company in the world and a market leader in many products. Its mandate was to pioneer and drive gas industrialization in Saudi Arabia by adding value to the gas produced. The company had total assets of $83.46 billion as at the end of December 2022, operates in 50 countries, and generated $46.6 billion

in sales revenue.

The interesting thing is that SABIC has in turn created The Saudi Iron and Steel Company, one of the world’s largest fully integrated producers of Iron and Steel. Again, corporate governance has been identified as a catalyst for the remarkable success of SABIC. Strong corporate governance will strengthen institutions that are responsible for economic diversification and transformation: Governance in public sector enterprises ensures that they fulfil their mandates, achieve their intended outcomes for citizens and service users and operate effectively, efficiently, transparently and in ethical manner.

It significantly improves the quality of implementation, allows for continuity and ensures sustainability which have been our biggest obstacle for decades; the real reasons we have failed to diversify our economy.

Corporate governance frameworks that encourage entrepreneurship and support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) can be instrumental in diversifying the economy. MSMEs are often engines of growth in emerging economies. In Nigeria, they account for 76% of the workforce, about 50% of the GDP and 7% of exports.

Effective corporate governance and its mechanisms will foster innovation which can drive new industries and create opportunities for diversification, improve accountability and transparency which will lead to better quality of implementation of plans to diversify the economy and curb corruption and waste. It will also build trust in citizens and investors.

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, for Nigeria to truly harness the power of corporate governance in both the private and public sectors for economic diversification and transformation, it must address certain challenges. These include Political Interference: When political considerations heavily influence the decision-making process in public organizations, it can compromise the impartiality and objectivity needed for good governance. It starts with the process and quality of making appointments. Why must critical appointments such as heads of parastatals, board members, etc, go to party members as ‘dividends of democracy’? That is not the dividend of democracy.

The dividends of democracy should be good governance. The appointment and promotion of individuals based on personal relationships and political party affiliations rather than on merit weaken the very institutions we need to diversify and transform the economy. We cannot eat our cake and have it.

There is no effective mechanism for holding our economic institutions that are supposed to drive the economic transformation the country requires accountable. That is why we have had a high level of waste, leakages and corruption and poor execution of existing diversification plans and policies. We have heard about oil

theft for years, we know about insecurity, high levels of unemployment, poverty, inflation, low manufacturing value addition, tough macroeconomic environment. Who has ever been held accountable and how many people have been sacked? Can you imagine this happening in the private sector and the management and board will remain?

Ineffective Oversight: Limited checks an balances on government agencies and public institutions have led to inefficiencies, misuse of public funds, poor implementation of economic plans and policies. There is no effective oversight because of the poor quality of the board, no relevant key performance indicators (KPIs), no reward for good performance and consequences for bad performance or behaviour.

So, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, before I conclude, I would like to leave you with some recommendations: The NCCG 2018 for the private sector has been issued and has strengthened corporate governance in the sector. But focusing on private sector corporate governance alone to drive economic diversification and transformation is recipe for failure. The public sector has a major role to play, particularly in developing countries.

At the very least, it determines how high you can jump and how fast you can run. That is why it is critical for the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria to issue the National Code of Corporate Governance (NCCG) for the public sector as soon as possible, after due consultations. Full implementation of the Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance in the public sector will have a dramatic and positive effect on our economic institutions.

The National Assembly should amend the Acts which established the Ministries and their agencies to make the adoption of the code mandatory for the public sector.

In addition, the Acts should specify the skills, competence, and experience (number of years in the profession) required to chair or sit on the board and to be in the executive management team of an Agency. That was one of the strategies employed to have strong governance and effective leadership at the Sovereign Wealth Fund (Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority) and which regulators like National Pension Commission (PENCOM) have used effectively to regulate the pension industry which is now one of the best regulated sectors.

Economic Institutions and Agencies Must be Held Accountable: Nations fail because institutions are weak or do not exist. Any industrial plan will fail if the relevant economic institutions are weak. Government agencies are economic institutions and the implementing arm of the Ministries and are therefore critical to any economic diversification plan. At a minimum, competent technocrats or even competent politicians who have a reputation for delivering should be appointed

to the boards and management of these agencies. The dividends of democracy as I said earlier should not be about sharing positions to party loyalists but should be about good governance. KPIs should be set, and a comprehensive review of their performance regularly undertaken before any reappointments.

Both the private and public sectors need to show more commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices. Investors are beginning to demand this to invest in companies and countries. 6. Capacity Building. There is a need for continuous training and capacity building for corporate leaders, regulators, and stakeholders to enhance their understanding of governance principles, particularly in the areas of digitalisation and cyber security.

The CIoD as a very important institution in the country has a major role to play as well. It was one of the reasons I made it absolutely clear to the FRC that they must work very closely with the Institute when I inaugurated the Technical Committee that worked on the National Code of Corporate Governance.

For efficient and effective corporate governance practices to thrive in the country, it is critical that the CIoD become advocates and facilitate the adoption of the NCCG in the public sector. To focus on corporate governance in the private sector only will miss the mark and will not work.

To improve the corporate governance environment particularly in the public sector, the CIoD should develop an index for ranking Corporate Governance in the public sector particularly the institutions that are responsible for economic diversification and transformation. You will be amazed how that Index will transform our economy and nation. Remember nations fail because Institutions are weak or do not exist.

In conclusion, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, unassailable corporate governance is not an option but a necessity for Nigeria’s economic transformation and diversification.

It is the lighthouse that guides us through the complex waters of modern economics, helping us navigate toward sustainable growth and shared prosperity. Nigeria, with its vast potential and human resources, has an incredible opportunity to redefine its economic landscape through effective corporate governance and become the Jewel of Africa again. Together, let us work towards a future where Nigeria’s economy is diversified, robust, and inclusive, built on the solid foundation of good governance.

•Aganga, former minister of finance presented this key note address, “Driving Nigeria’s Economic Transformation and Diversification: The Role of Corporate Governance,” at the Chartered Institute of Directors 2023 Annual Directors Conference in Abuja on November 16

MATTERS ARISING IN BAYELSA, IMO, KOGI OFF-CYCLE POLLS across the three states. According to INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of its Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, there were 1,056, 862 registered voters in Bayelsa State, 2,419,922 in Imo State and 1,932,654 in Kogi State, making a combined total of 5,409,438 voters for the three states. 16 political parties sponsored candidates in Bayelsa, 17 in Imo and 18 in Kogi. For effect, the electoral commission also claimed it deployed 27 Resident Electoral Commissioners, six national commissioners and many administrative secretaries for the elections.

Now, my point is with that large number of election officials, police officers and other stakeholders deployed for just three gubernatorial seats last Saturday, there is no reason why the elections should not be almost flawless if not excellent.

As I argued earlier, the small number should prepare the ground for the conduct of good elections.

Another important thing about off-cycle elections is that in our situation, they are supposed to provide INEC with the opportunity to test run their arrangements and facilities for the general elections. The July 14 and September 22, 2018 governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states for instance were supposed to prepare ground for the 2019 presidential polls just as the just-ended

off-cycle elections in Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi and the governorship elections in Edo and Anambra scheduled to hold in 2024 and 2025 respectively are supposed to be used by INEC to prepare and particularly to further test its technological systems, the BIVAS and IReV, for the forthcoming 2027 general election.

But has that been the case with off-cycle polls? Writing on the Back Page of Thisday last Tuesday, cerebral columnist and ARISE TV anchor, Dr. Reuben Abati, said: “Every off-cycle election is as bad as the main election, and are in many cases worse. Nigerian politicians and the various stakeholders are obsessed with their own greed, ambition and limitations.

Nobody shows any capacity to learn any lessons, making every election the same of the same: the same incredulous pattern of criminality, conflict and capture.”

So, what difference does it make whether the elections are off-cycle or nationwide?

Indeed, the same allegations of vote-buying, writing of results before the election, violence and other malpractices have greeted the justended off-cycle elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi. INEC should investigate these anomalies and do the needful so it can at least help in future elections.

Governors Hope Uzodinma and Duoye Diri of Imo and Bayelsa states and All Progressives Congress candidate in Kogi, Ahmed Usman Ododo, have emerged winners

of the governorship polls. Uzodinma won in all the 27 Local government areas of the state, polling a total of 540,308 votes to beat his closest challenger, the Peoples Democratic Party candidate Samuel Anyanwu who scored 71, 503 votes. The Bayelsa election across just eight local government areas was a tight one, stretching INEC for two days after the poll before a winner was announced particularly over the alleged manipulated results from Nembe.

Governor Duoye Diri of PDP polled 175, 196 votes to defeat ex-governor Timipre Sylva, the candidate of APC, who came second with 110, 108 votes, while none of the other 14 candidates scored up to 1000 votes.

Kogi off-cycle election was also contentious.

There were allegations of writing of results before the election in Kogi Central where Governor Yahaya Bello, the White Lion as he is called, and his handpicked successor, APC candidate Ododo, hail from. INEC initially suspended the election, cancelled results from nine wards in Ogori-Magongo LGA in Kogi Central over electoral malpractices and fixed rerun in those wards for today, November 18. But the commission cancelled the idea of re-run in the affected wards arguing that the total votes from those nine wards would not make any difference in the gaps between the leading candidate Ododo and Social Democratic Party candidate Murtala Ajaka.

Ododo was eventually declared the winner of the election, having won the majority of lawful votes.

There are a few remarkable things about the election though.

It is noteworthy that the Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi elections proved bookmakers right. Many analysts had predicted victory for Uzodinma and Diri for various reasons including incumbency factor, even though Diri is of the opposition party at the centre.

Ajaka performed brilliantly in the election but the opposition in the state is too fragmented to make a major impact to upstage the APC. Another thing about the polls is that they were generally peaceful and devoid of much violence which is a credit to President Bola Tinubu and the police.

There was also a level-playing field.

President Tinubu did not use his exalted position to oppress candidates of the other parties. At every turn, he would tell all those involved in the election to give everyone and every party equal chance.

This has been widely acknowledged and applauded. Indeed, the President deserves commendation on the off-cycle polls. We should take these gains into the future elections.

•Rahman, former Editor of Thisday on Sunday is a Senior Presidential Aide.

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Ribadu on the Buhari Administration “It is important for you to know that we have inherited a very difficult situation, literally a bankrupt country, no money, to a point where we can say that all the money we’re getting now, we’re paying back what was taken. It is serious!” –The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, lamenting that the Tinubu administration inherited a bankrupt country from the Buhari administration.

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OLUSEGUNAGANGA GUEST COLUMNIST

Driving Nigeria’s Economic Transformation and Diversification

I

would like to commend the Institute for choosing this topic. Every successive government in Nigeria has talked about the need to transform and diversify our economy for decades but none has identified corporate governance as a major catalyst for driving that transformation.

And there is no better time than now to draw the attention of the nation and managers of the economy to this significant omission.

As I indicated in my recent book, Reclaiming the Jewel of Africa, the Economy is the number one priority of any government. In some countries, elections are won or lost because of the economy. Our economy today is relatively small; it is not growing fast enough and is not inclusive. It has all the features of a weak economy: Import-dependent, weak and unstable macroeconomic environment, export of primary products without value addition, high and unsustainable level of debt servicing cost to national revenue, fall in real wages, high dependency on foreign earnings without building productive capacity, high incidence of poverty, high rate of unemployment, high rate of emigration of skilled professionals, weak governance structure and prevalence of insecurity.

So, the recurring question many keep asking is, why has a country which has about 85million hectares of land where almost

Tinubu

everything can grow, has more than 45 solid minerals in commercial quantity, a top 10 oil and gas producer, a young population which is the envy of the rest of the world, and some of the brightest people in the world,

not been able to transform its economy and diversify its sources of revenue for decades?

It is not because we do not have economic plans or policies to diversify and transform our economy. The simple answer is the lack of continuity and extremely poor quality of implementation of economic plans and policies.

I will give you an example, Nigeria officially launched its industrial plan to diversify the economy in 2014, although it commenced implementation in 2011. From 2015, the plan was put it in the cooler for about 8 years.

As result the growth of manufacturing’s contribution to GDP which was in double digits throughout 2011 to 2014 peaking at 24.59% in 2013 crashed to negative 1.46% in 2015, another negative 4.32% in 2016 and only grew marginally by 2.45% in 2022.

This is what the lack of continuity does to an economy. If it had been implemented rigorously, Nigeria would have become a top competitive global exporter of at least 3 or 4 of the 13 products identified for export by now. It is all about continuity and discipline.

2 We are long on plans and policies but short on implementation. And why is that so? It is because our institutions particularly the economic institutions are weak or do not exist. According to Daron Acemoglu and James Robinson in the book “Why Nations

Fail”, Nations fail because Institutions are weak or do not exist.

Nations fail when they have extractive (weak) economic institutions, supported by extractive political institutions that impede and even block economic growth.’ The third question you may then ask is why are institutions weak? And the answer is that they are weak mainly because of the poor corporate governance, and governance in public institutions. An area that has been overlooked and rarely mentioned when talking about the economy. That is why I commend the Institute once again for the choice of today’s topic. I will be talking about Governance in the corporate world and in the government because the economy is driven by both the private and public sectors. What is Corporate Governance? The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) defines corporate governance as “a set of relationships between a company’s management, its board, its shareholders and other stakeholders; it provides the structure through which the objectives of the company are set, and the means of attaining those objectives and monitoring performance”.

So, it is about the four “Ps”: People, Continued on page 31

TUNDERAHMAN GUEST COLUMNIST

Matters Arising in Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi Off-Cycle Polls

F

ormer President Goodluck Jonathan last weekend opened the debate on the propriety or otherwise of off-season elections. Speaking in an interview with journalists after voting at his Ward 13 Otuoke, Ogbia LGA, Bayelsa State in last Saturday’s off-cycle governorship election, Dr. Jonathan asked the country to put a stop to off-cycle elections, explaining that if the trend continued a time would come when even the presidential election might also become an off-cycle election. His grouse against off-season polls is that they are inconsistent with the global best practices.

“I get worried about the issue of off-season elections, and I will use this unique opportunity to plead with the National Assembly that we need to block off-season elections. It is very odd; it’s not a global best practice.

A country can elect its people at different times, like the American election and some countries. They may not elect everybody at the same time but the only time they go on to conduct elections, they elect everybody that is supposed to be elected,” he said.

What the former president seeks is all elections should hold once or twice and

there should be fixed periods for elections in Nigeria as is the practice in United States, where we copied our presidential system of government from. In the US, the presidential election takes place every four years, congressional and mid-term elections every two years and a variety of state and local elections hold every year.

The former President, Dr. Jonathan has his point. Off-season election is what it is: it is not in sync with the electoral cycle, distorts the electoral calendar flow and makes elections costlier for a country like Nigeria as opposed to when everything is taken together once or twice.

But achieving the Jonathan proposal seems utopian. It’s a difficult and almost impossible thing to achieve without running foul of the constitution.

The distortion in the electoral cycle came about as a result of adjudication into some governorship election petitions since the democratic rebirth in 1999, which ate into the four-year term of some governors. Eight states fall within the off-cycle elections as a result of judicial judgements on election petitions. At present, the states include Ekiti, Osn, Ondo, Edo, Anambra, Kogi, Bayelsa

and Imo. In the case of Osun State for instance, it took former Governor Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola three solid years before he was able to retrieve his stolen mandate, such that his tenure, which ought to have begun in 2007 eventually started in 2010. Yet, by the constitution, he is entitled to a four-year tenure, and another four years, if re-elected, as was the case in 2014.

Electoral petitions used to go on interminably before. However, the 2010 Electoral Act (as amended) has now fixed the time for the hearing and dispensing with election petitions within 180 days and any ensuing appeal within 60 days. The National Assembly that is at present working on the amendment of the Electoral Act should look into the former president’s suggestion and decide what is possible with respect to offcycle elections.

In my view, off-cycle elections should ordinarily serve some useful purposes.

Rather than injure our electoral system and democracy, they ought to deepen them.

This is what I mean: because the number of seats or constituencies involved in offcycle elections are much smaller compared to nationwide elections, they normally should

give the election stakeholders, particularly the Independent National Electoral Commission, more leeway, indeed the latitude to work towards and engender good elections. They should give the security agencies the room and opportunity to properly police the votes and ensure compliance with the electoral rules and processes.

Let’s examine the wide gaps in the numbers involved, in the February 25, 2023 Presidential Election as compared with Bayelsa, Kogi and Imo off-cycle elections for instance. About 87 million Nigerians collected their PVCs from around 93 million voters registered. They were the eligible persons for the last presidential election (though only 26.71% of them turned out). In the election held in a total of 176, 846 polling stations, 18 political parties participated according to INEC. Also, the police deployed a total of 310, 973 personnel and 1,240 patrol vans for the election.

However, for last Saturday’s off-cycle elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi states, a total of 5.4 million votes were available for grab by the 18 parties who participated in the polls while the elections took place in 10, 470 polling units Continued on page 31

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