SATURDAY 25TH DECEMBER 2021

NCDC: 45 Cases of Omicron so far Detected in Nigeria Says country now experiencing community transmission of variant

Onyebuchi Ezigbo The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) yesterday announced that 45 cases of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 had so far been

recorded in the country, with no death logged.

NCDC Director-General, Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, who disclosed the Nigerian Omicron statistics at a virtual media briefing, said the new cases were

in people without travel history, which suggested that the country was already experiencing community transmission.

Adetifa said the six cases of Omicron earlier detected

were in persons with recent travel history to South Africa.

According to him, it is important for Nigerians to maintain physical distance and avoid contact with anyone showing symptoms

of respiratory illness.

“We are counting on you to #CelebrateResponsibly and #TakeResponsibility to keep yourself and your loved ones safe from COVID-19,” he added.

Adetifa also advised Nigerians to observe more measures that could curb the spread of Omicron such as reducing large gatherings, Continued on page 5

Investors Stake N865bn in FG’s N250bn Sukuk…

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FG: ISWAP’s Ability to Launch Rockets on Borno Disturbing Ganduje demands deployment of more soldiers in Kano Deji Elumoye in Abuja The federal government has described the multiple rocket attacks in Maiduguri by the

Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) ahead of the President Muhammadu Buhari’s visit to Borno State last Thursday as worrisome.

The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba stated this while briefing State House Correspondents on the outcome of an emergency

National Security Council (NSC) meeting presided over

by President Buhari at the presidential villa.

This is just as the federal

government allayed the fears of Nigerians over the reported planned attack by terrorists on Abuja, the nation's capital.

ISWAP had launched

multiple rockets on Maiduguri, the state capital, hours before the visit of the Continued on page 5

In Christmas Dispatch, Buhari Promises Nigerians End to Killings, Kidnappings ‘Our courageous security forces, bolstered by the necessary support from this administration, daily confront the wicked ones amongst us, who continue to threaten the peace of the land. Let us utilise the opportunity that this festive period brings to encourage ourselves so that the machinations of the wicked ones in our midst will find no place to thrive’

Sa

Deji Elumoye and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari, in a special Christmas message personally signed and issued yesterday, promised to ensure that the security challenges facing Nigerians become history soon.

For years, terrorists have been roaming across the

country unhindered, killing, kidnapping and maiming.

While rejoicing with Nigerian Christians as they celebrate Christmas, the President declared: “I am confident that with the renewed commitment and empowerment of our committed security personnel, all these issues which inflict Continued on page 5

REJOICING WITH SHEKARAU… L-R: President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan; former governor of Kano State, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau; and Senator Barau Jibrin, before the wedding Fatiha of Halima, daughter of Shekarau, in Kano…yesterday

President to Sign 2022 Budget Next Week... Page 17

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PAGE FIVE FG: ISWAP’S ABILITY TO LAUNCH ROCKETS ON BORNO DISTURBING President to Borno State.

Five people were killed and many houses destroyed by the ISWAP rockets that landed in different areas, including Ngomari, Bulumkutu, Ajilari, and Ayafe communities.

The IG, however, said the insurgents were unable to achieve their objectives.

“They are launching it in major towns, they are launching it in Maiduguri. It is a concern. And it has been seriously checkmated. There are efforts to continuously checkmate it,” Baba said.

He stressed that although the government and the security forces were particularly concerned about the rocket attacks, the target of the terrorists was defeated by security forces.

According to him, President Buhari, during the meeting, tasked all security and intelligence chiefs in attendance to increase the heat against the terrorists and all other criminals, saying none should be spared.

The IG said they were asked to spare no terrorist or criminal, adding that the

target now should be crime prevention.

He said: “The marching orders are always the same; you have even told Nigerians the marching orders of the President. It has always been the same; there is no space, there is no tolerance to any threat to security.

“There is no sparing of any terrorist and there must be an intelligence gathering, there must be proactive prevention of crime and there must be checkmating of all those that are involved in criminal activities, whether it is terrorism, banditry or armed robbery or whatever and that is what we are trying to do to the best of our knowledge and ability.”

On why there are so many policemen deployed to the South-east region of the country, seemingly more than to areas considered more prone to violent crimes, Usman said population, economic activities and other factors determine deployment.

He said: “You said it is an allegation which has not been proven, it has

NCDC: 45 CASES OF OMICRON SO FAR DETECTED IN NIGERIA increasing physical distancing, duration of contacts and possibly shutting down premises considered at greater risk.

Adetifa urged Nigerians to take the advisory issued by the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19 more seriously, adding that it would greatly increase the effectiveness of such interventions.

Meanwhile, The National

Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), has insisted that the national booster campaign remained the main tool in the country’s arsenal for curbing the spread of Omicron.

The agency however said all the COVID-19 vaccines in the country offered significant protection against the Omicron variant, and that two doses should still ward off severe disease.

always been an allegation.

The spaces are different, the whole of the South-east, in terms of landmass, might not be as large as Niger State, so certainly you may see a number of policemen within a very small space, trying to do policing work and you may see another number, not equal, doing much more than that.

“But when we talk about policing a population or policing a place where there is economic activity or policing in a place where there are more threats, then certainly you have to put more men to govern that small space and that is what you are seeing.

Also speaking to newsmen, Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, allayed fears among Nigerians, especially the residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, over reported planned attack on Abuja, saying there is no cause for worry.

The minister said: "There isn’t any threat to the safety and security of Abuja. Abuja is secure and very safe. If there was a leak, as you mentioned, it could just be an operational alert that does not require any worry or concern. The Council has mandated us to assure Nigerians of their safety, of their security and enduring peace for the period of the festivities.

“The message of the Security Council, through you to Nigerians, is that all measures for the safety and security of the Nigerian people and Nigeria, are in place for a successful and happy celebration of the yuletide and the New Year.

Compliment of the season to all of us from the President and members of the Security Council.”

Before the commencement of the security meeting, the President swore-in the newly-appointed Minister of State for Works and Housing, Muazu Sambo.

In attendance at the security meeting yesterday were Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha and the National Security Adviser, Major General Babagana Monguno (retd.).

Others include Minister of Defense, Major General Bashir Magashi (retd.); Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola; Chief of Defense Staff, General Lucky Irabor; Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Farouk Yahaya; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo; and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Isiaka Amao.

Also present were the Inspector-General; the Director-General of the Department of State Service, Yusuf Bichi; and the DirectorGeneral of the National Intelligence Agency, Ahmed Abubakar.

Ganduje Demands Deployment of more Soldiers Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to deploy more military personnel to forests in the state.

Speaking to journalists yesterday after meeting with the president in Abuja,

Ganduje said he came to brief Buhari on the security situation in his state.

He called for the establishment of another military training base in the forest bordering Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi and Plateau, as part of efforts to check the activities of criminals.

The governor said: “There are challenges all over the country that are unfortunate, but we believe Mr. President is doing his best with other stakeholders in order to curtail the situation.

“We need the helping hand of almost everybody, especially governors and chairmen of local governments. We have observed that the security situation is worsening now.

Our forests are the major problems because they accommodate bandits, terrorists, armed robbers and criminals.

“In Kano State, we have taken some measures. We have two large forests, including the Falgore forest, which borders Kano, Kaduna and Bauchi states and also not far away from Plateau.

In that forest, we established a military training ground in conjunction with the army and there’s a lot of military training going on in that forest, using the facilities that we have provided.

“So, that is helping to checkmate the activities of bandits in that forest and I have requested Mr. President to also establish another institution within that forest and that forest will be liberated completely.”

He added that the state introduced the use of technology within its

forests to improve effective communication between security operatives in the state.

According to Ganduje, the state has also constituted an enlarged security committee to promote efforts to maintain peace.

He said: “We have introduced technology within the forest. From the office of the DSS in Kano and the office of the commissioner of police and even from my office, we are able to monitor what is happening in that forest.

“And there’s effective communication between the DSS and the police and those who are managing the forest — the checkpoints and various places that security agencies are manning.

“We’re laying over 100 kilometres of optic fibre within the Kano metropolis, so that CCTV cameras will be more effective and we can manage the whole mega city in terms of security and also in terms of network improvement.

“We have also constituted what we call an enlarged security committee because limiting it to the air force, army, police, DSS, civil defence, I think the security network, in terms of flow of information, requires much more than that.

“Also, we introduced technology.

As earlier mentioned, we have the most powerful tracker in the country. Through that one, even some people who escaped to Niger Republic, Cameroon, we were able to trace them and connect with international security agencies for their arrest.”

this year alone - the many deaths as a result of terrorism, kidnapping and banditry, the depressing economic situation with inflation spiraling out of control, crashing further the ordinary man who has already been drained of joy, peace, and hope.

“The violent agitations for self-determination, which have come with the loss of lives and limbs, have left horrific scars on our collective psyche. All these make this year one that many Nigerians may not forget in a hurry.

Nevertheless, Christmas proclaims, ‘Joy to the world the Lord has come.’

“For every disenchanted Nigerian who is on the verge of giving up on this country; for anyone who is prepared to cut off his moorings and drifts away to distant lands, Christmas challenges us to dare to look ahead and again embrace the hope for a better Nigeria.”

While stating that unbridled corruption and criminality were a grim reminder that selfishness had taken root in the hearts of many statesmen, the Archbishop said: “Christmas is an invitation to give up selfishness, to think only of others and how to bring the greatest happiness to them.

“On account of Christmas, all our leaders are challenged to once again dream big for our country and to faithfully work hard to realise those dreams so as to find solutions to our teething problems and better the lives of some of the poorest people on earth.”

Catholic Bishops Urge Nigerians to Be Hopeful

IN CHRISTMAS DISPATCH, BUHARI PROMISES NIGERIANS END TO KILLINGS, KIDNAPPINGS pain and trauma on us will soon be history."

The President admitted that despite the “remarkable successes generally recorded,” the nation still has challenges to contend with.

He noted that the military was doing everything possible to tackle the insecurity menace.

Buhari said: "Our courageous security forces, bolstered by the necessary support from this administration, daily confront the wicked ones amongst us, who continue to threaten the peace of the land.

"Recently, during the meeting with fellow Heads of State of the ECOWAS, I discussed the need to intensify efforts to jointly confront this menace causing instability in our sub-region.

"Let us utilise the opportunity that this festive period brings to encourage ourselves so that the machinations of the wicked ones in our midst will find no place to thrive.

"Christmas is a season when hope is rekindled.

Hope, Peace, Joy, Love are the recurring themes of this time. It is in the midst of hardship that the true test

of a nation emerges.”

The President urged Nigerians to invoke the indomitable spirit in them and see the present order of things as a phase that would also pass, “just like other unsavory situations in the nation’s history.”

He said his government would not abandon the promises made to Nigerians for a better lease of life, adding that the diversification of the economy embarked upon by his government was yielding fruits.

The President said: “We shall continue to create opportunities for our teeming youths to ventilate their tremendous energy. As we felicitate with family, friends, colleagues, associates, let us spare moments to reach out to the less privileged.

"Let us also pray and give words of encouragement to our gallant security personnel fulfilling their oaths to keep us safe.

"I assure my compatriots that this administration remains resolute at ensuring that the standard of living of the average Nigerian is elevated.”

He assured that his six and half-year administration

THISDAY on Break Tomorrow Highly esteemed readers, in line with our tradition, your favourite THISDAY newspaper will not be on the newsstands tomorrow, December 26. We will return on December 27. Wishing our valued readers a merry Christmas.

Editor

would fulfill all the promises made to Nigerians before the government terminates in 17 months’ time.

Urges Citizens to Get Vaccinated Also in the Christmas message, the President pleaded with all citizens to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

He expressed disappointment that for the second Christmas running, the world would not be able to celebrate as it used to in years past because of the pandemic.

He said: "The COVID-19 pandemic, with its attendant debilitating impact, has remained with mankind, mutating and leaving in its wake, devastating consequences on the economy, social interaction, and curtailing certain freedoms.

"The silver lining, however, is that humanity has been able to rise up with one voice and purpose, to confront the foisted conditions.

"I want to use this opportunity to appeal to our dear citizens to embrace vaccination, which is the best scientifically known bulwark against the pandemic. Recent events have shown that vaccination greatly reduces the effects of the virus on the human body.

"I will also urge those that have taken the two doses to go ahead and take the booster as advised by the Presidential Steering Committee (PSC).

I commend the efforts of

members of the PSC under the headship of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation as they continue to chart a roadmap out of the pandemic and associated issues.

"On this note, I wish Nigerians Merry Christmas!"

Kaigama: Heart of Every Nigerian Heavy with Suffering The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, His Grace, Most Revd. Ignatius Kaigama yesterday lamented that the hearts of Nigerians are heavy with the suffering they had experienced and seen in 2021 alone.

Kaigama, who stated this in his Christmas message, also called on Nigerians not to give up on the country, saying although the present situations may be tough, “God is in control.”

According to him, with security challenges, COVID-19 and agitations for selfdetermination, Nigerians would not forget 2021 in a hurry.

The cleric told the faithful not to give up on their country, but “dare to look ahead and again embrace the hope for a better Nigeria.”

Kaigama said: “Christmas this year has found us in the throes of woes and distressing circumstances far beyond our human control. As Nigerians, in almost every part of this country, our hearts are heavy with the suffering we have experienced and seen

Catholic Bishops have urged Nigerians overwhelmed by suffering and hardship not to give up hope of a better Nigeria.

The bishops said Nigerians should always remember the popular Christmas refrain, Emmanuel which is that "God is with us" and try to be hopeful of a better future.

In its Christmas message issued by the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) jointly signed by the President, Most Rev. Augustine Akubeze; Vice President, Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji and Secretary, Most Rev. Camillus Umoh, the clergymen enjoined Nigerians not to allow any situation to lead them to despair because God is always there to intervene for them.

"This feast reminds us that God is with us. Therefore, the word 'Emmanuel' should be a constant refrain in our mouths. We should, therefore, not allow any situation to lead us to despair because God is always with us. We are grateful to God for all his divine interventions in our lives. We know that if not for God, things would have been worse.

"I want us to use part of our time during this holy season and maybe even beyond the Christmas Season to develop our capacity to listen to God who speaks to us in silence," said the bishops.

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DECEMBER 25, 2021 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

A FORGIVING HEART AT CHRISTMAS

Forgiveness helps the healing process and enables us to move on in life with meaning and purpose, writes Cosmas Odoemena

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hristmas is when we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s a time for celebration. It’s a time of joy. It’s a time of goodwill. While we find it easy to show our goodwill to some people, there are still others we nurse grudges against. Those we call enemies and have kept malice with for long, and we have told ourselves they can never be part of our goodwill. We have vowed never to forgive them.

But while we may not want to forgive a person’s wrongdoing, we can separate the offender from the offence. In this period of love and happiness, we can learn to forgive. It might seem difficult. But it’s what we do all the time without even knowing it. Forgiveness is hardwired in us. It’s what makes us human.

We forgive our parents for disapproving of our choice of life partners. For insisting that we follow their religion. For not believing in our career choice. For refusing to take their medications. For separating or divorcing. For abandoning the family.

We forgive our siblings for being the ones our parents dote on. For leaving the dishes for us to wash. For not helping out in the house. For not acknowledging us as adults. For having smarter children than ours. For building beautiful houses while we remain tenants.

We forgive our spouses for frequently coming back home late from work. For caring more about their career, their shops, and their businesses more than their family.

For nagging too much. For not knowing how to cook. For cooking beans with gas when the price of gas is on the high.

For being demanding. For being materialistic. For cheating on us. For farting right under our nose. For insisting on the children attending expensive schools when there are cheaper alternatives. For insisting on spending Christmas in Dubai when money can be saved spending it in Nigeria.

We forgive our children for calling us on the phone only when they need money. For breaking the glass cup. For scattering the house. For getting into trouble at school. For being branded the school bully and truant. For keeping bad company. For running away from home.

We forgive ourselves for not forgiving ourselves. For feeling frustrated about things. For feeling inadequate. For our low self-esteem. For not being able to defend our cause. For dwelling on the past instead of the future. For accepting that we could have done better in life if we had taken a different approach to life. For worrying too much. For being troubled by what others think about us. For realizing too late that our children grew up without us being their guide.

We forgive our governments and our leaders and still return them to power. We forgive them for failed promises.

For our economic woes. For our tumbling naira. For rising inflation. For pitching us against ourselves. For using our youths to cause problems during elections while they keep their children safe. For not doing enough about our security. For a never-ending tale about fuel subsidy. For our bad roads. For our refineries that don’t refine fuels after squandering our money to fix them. For never solving our electricity problems.

Being in a family or being a citizen means being related, being connected to people or an entity bigger than us. For that to be forgiveness plays a significant role. If anything to

IN THIS PERIOD OF LOVE AND HAPPINESS, WE CAN LEARN TO FORGIVE. IT MIGHT SEEM DIFFICULT. BUT IT’S WHAT WE DO ALL THE TIME WITHOUT EVEN KNOWING IT. FORGIVENESS IS HARDWIRED IN US. IT’S WHAT MAKES US HUMAN

keep our sanity. And it might come to us as a surprise that it’s a spontaneous thing which comes unmerited. It’s just like the way God forgives us our wrongdoing even before we ask for his forgiveness. Imagine if God were to punish us for all our evil ways. In that same way, we are to forgive others who wronged us. Jesus says to forgive 70 times seven. This means endlessly. It’s not easy. But not forgiving is even a more difficult choice.

Dr. Robert Enright, co-founder of the International Forgiveness Institute, defines forgiveness as simply “choosing to be good to those who are not good to us.” Don’t adjudicate the hurt. Better not to pick over, better not to count the sins, better not to make a case. It may never end. And we may go on hurting. Instead, energy should be channeled to recognize the inherent worth in the other. That’s what brings about a transformation.

Anne Lamott in “Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith,” said, “Not forgiving is like drinking rat poison and then waiting for the rat to die.” The Buddhists say that “unaddressed vengeful feelings can follow us even after death, and should be expunged lest they become embedded in our next life as ground-floor problems.”

Kelly Corrigan, a writer, says, “the why of forgiveness is more obvious than the how. It takes a lot to break through the wall of emotions (disgust, anger, hurt) that blocks us from forgiveness, especially when the offence is cruel or damaging. How do we even begin?”

A clergy, Michael Lezak, said he has officiated at many funerals where people have not resolved their conflicts, worsening their grief with regrets and shame. “Pain and anger embed themselves in our souls,” he said. “Gone unprocessed, unchecked and, ultimately, unreleased, this subterranean hurt can so easily metastasize, sapping us of potential and impeding us from feeling fully alive.”

Lezak who himself is a Jew says on Yom Kippur, the annual day of atonement, there is a passage Jews read that includes a glaring call to choose life. “Part of this choosinglife business entails building the muscle tone to relinquish grudges,” he says. He believes that the forgiveness muscle builds as muscles do: via repetitive use.

While we bear grudge and refuse to forgive God watches us from above. Not forgiving might just be what is interfering with our blessings and our breakthroughs. It might be delaying our progress at work and our businesses. It might be delaying our getting pregnant and having a baby. It might be what does not make us attract favour and supernatural grace. It might be what is stopping us from fulfilling our destiny. It might be what is responsible for our failing health.

Research has shown that when we forgive we experience psychological benefits ourselves. It decreases anxiety, depression, and unhealthy anger. It can help our blood pressure a great deal. Forgiveness can help to heal us and enable us to move on in life with meaning and purpose. Forgiveness matters, and we will be its primary beneficiary. Imagine even how our country will be if forgiveness takes over the nation.

As the newborn King comes to bring us goodness and light, let our hearts be transformed. Let’s forgive!

Dr. Odoemena, medical practitioner, wrote from Lagos

THE LAST CHRISTMAS AS GOVERNOR FAYEMI Uzor Maxim Uzoatu urges the Ekiti State governor to run for the Presidency

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his Christmas is the last that Governor Kayode Fayemi will spend as the helmsman of Ekiti State. He happens to be term-limited and cannot seek further re-election as governor. Some of the other outgoing governors have had recourse to retire to the Senate. The leadership recruitment process in Nigeria has over the years not been up to par. For me, Governor John Kayode Fayemi (JFK) should aim higher and contest to become Mr. President.

The time has come for Nigeria to put up her First Eleven in the contest for the power game. Governor Fayemi has seen it all as the respected chair of the Governors Forum, and it would definitely not be out of place for him to throw his hat into the ring for the epic battle of becoming Nigeria’s president in 2023.

Nigeria today needs a president versed in the modern ways of doing things.

Back in time, when the United States of America needed youthful dynamism to rev things up, the country beckoned on John F. Kennedy in 1960. Down the years, the world bore witness to how Bill Clinton, after serving as the governor of the little state of Arkansas, stepped forward boldly to trounce the then incumbent President George Bush Sr. Barack Obama upped the ante in displaying the fact that true application is what is

needed in leadership selection instead of primordial matters such as race and class and gerontocracy.

Nigeria needs men now. It is not a battle for the fainthearted. Over the years, the man popularly hailed as JFK has shown that he has what it takes to swing the battle.

By his training in military studies and his endearing commitment to the civil society, Governor Fayemi stands on a lofty pedestal that can hardly ever be bettered. All it would take is the political will to go the distance.

My advice is that Governor should take this last Yuletide season of his gubernatorial sojourn to put to action the well-oiled campaign machinery that would go a long way in driving the Nigerian ship of state.

It is obvious that Governor Fayemi has all the necessary contacts across all the geo-political zones of Nigeria. His reach as the Governor of Governors has been phenomenal, and he has forged the bond of unity across party lines. This is the time that Nigeria should not be bogged down by died-in-the-wool partisanship. The Fayemi appeal cuts across all cadres of the society in a manner that will make all Nigerians have a sense of belonging in the Nigerian project.

It is incumbent on the enlightened Fayemi to stress that Nigeria can in no way be

singled out as the only diverse nation in the world. India, for instance, has its share of diversities and even mutinies, but it still holds aloft the torch of democracy.

Fayemi definitely understands that Nigeria is today desirous of building a measure of participatory democracy, and the future can be made brighter through the welding together of all our people in harmony.

Fayemi, more than most of the politicians, understands that every nation in history must confront and master its own road to Damascus. This is the crucial issue confronting Nigeria in the 2023 presidential election.

The divisions across the land must not continue and it takes a strong believer in dialogue such as Fayemi is to lead the way.

Nigeria cannot afford to be found wanting in choosing a charismatic leader appealing to all in 2023. Even with the best will in the world, Nigerians must come together to admit that things are not as they ought to be. A rescue mission is needed in Nigeria, and Fayemi definitely fits the bill.

The heart of the matter is that a country cannot forever exist in suspended animation. Something has to give sooner or later; why not now? Nigeria is thus poised on historical contradictions that must be resolved one way or the other. In contesting to be president, Fayemi must understand that the country is running against time. It

is a clear case of emergency because if the issues are not addressed fast Nigeria’s many millions of people may end up imitating George Orwell’s animals in Animal Farm by overthrowing their oppressors. This definitely will not be a pretty sight. Already, James Baldwin’s preface to his immortal book, The Fire Next Time, rings true: “No more water, the fire next time!”

Fayemi in his studies of course knows that what faces Nigeria today is the eternal question posed by Chernychevsky in old Russia: “What is to be done?” Lenin had to borrow the title for his epochal book on the then Soviet Union.

It is a truism that leadership is needed in Nigeria, and Fayemi stands poised to show the way. A true leader can weld Nigeria together by showing personal example in dealing with the clear and present dangers in the country: true federalism, a workable constitution, devolution of power, fiscal diversity, etc.

Fayemi knows that no time is too late for a nation to wake up and forge ahead in sustained growth. The 2023 challenge is to show that things can be done in a different way by at last waking up the sleeping giant called Nigeria. As Napoleon Bonaparte once quipped about China, “Let her sleep, for when she wakes up she will shake the world.”

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INSIGHT

Happy Christmas...

Let’s Talk One Nigeria

Southeast’s Roads to Nowhere

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n southeast Nigeria, the ancestral home of Ndi Igbo, the signs of abandonment and neglect by the government at the centre is clear even to a first-time visitor. The portentous handwriting on the wall first appeared in 2015.

Historic polls like a tornado had swept away the incumbent but incompetent Mr. Goodluck Jonathan and the complacent Peoples Democratic Party. President Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress were their replacements. In an acceptance speech brimming with hope and bristling with the promise of battle, a chilling warning was fired the way of corruption. But something else still stung.

His historic victory at the polls had not been unanimous.

Not every region of the country had been convinced by Mr. Muhammadu Buhari and the APC, especially by their antecedents. So there had been support for Mr. Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party out of some quarters.

Out of southeast Nigeria came a jarring rejection. The emphatic loss suffered by Mr. Buhari and the All Progressives Congress had less to do with the acceptance of Mr. Goodluck Jonathan than a rejection of Mr. Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress.

A historically egalitarian society which had somehow survived the unfathomable wickedness of the Nigerian Civil War somehow reinvented the ancient tool of political defiance.

Political parties which had died elsewhere in the country found life in the region`s defiant embrace. The All Progressives Grand Alliance easily comes to mind. New political parties also sprung out of the region and surged to significant electoral victories. The PPA`s victories in Abia and Imo States easily come to mind.

So, a region that lives and breathes the famous igbo enwe eze (igbos have no king) famously wrongfooted Mr. Muhammadu Buhari and the APC, not once but twice, leaving them in a heap on the ground.

Former Deputy Senate President, Mr. Ike Ekweremadu was to salt wounds when he declared shortly after the 2015 elections that Ndi Igbo had no regrets over the choices they made at the polls. But there is always a price to pay.

Not that the survivors of a dreadful Civil War feared steep prices.

Mr. Buhari was to press home the point about prices when he openly declared that people who had not supported him sufficiently could not possibly expect the same portion of presidential goodies as those who had been unequivocal in their support for him.

Those wintry words proved to be the harbinger of what was to come, and a prophecy of nepotism.

Today, credit must rightfully go to Mr. Buhari for the work going on at the 2nd Niger Bridge. This is in spite of the fact that there are genuine concerns over its pace.

However, the real elephant in the room is the so-called Federal Government roads in the Southeast. They are not just full of potholes; they are in themselves ports of death

where people meet their end.

There is the 82 Division - 9th mile section of the degraded Enugu-Onitsha expressway; there are both lanes of the road from Abakpa junction; the Amansea portion of the Enugu -Onitsha expressway; the Owerri-Umuahia road, Owerri-Aba road, the Owerri end of the Owerri-Aba road and the Ulakwo axis; the Osisioma to Port Harcourt axis of the dual carriage road, the highway between Aba and Obigbo in Rivers State particularly at Ariara junction, Alaoji Mechanic Village and Asa axis; the Port Harcourt road traversing Aba; the Ikot Ekpene-Umuahia federal highway linking the Southeast and Akwa Ibom State particularly the Ikwuano axis and the Umuahia-Ohafia-Arochukwu federal road that has almost collapsed to mention but a few.

Even the staunchest skeptic of the abandonment of the Southeast by the federal government would struggle to dismiss the potent evidence provided by the roads which wear neglect like signature sackcloth.

It is not a question of what people want to believe themselves and what they want people to believe. It is a question of what is on ground, of what people can see for themselves.

While many Federal Government roads in the Southeast are broken, their counterparts in the Northeast especially shine with maintenance and attention.

Ironically, people feel safer travelling on the neglected roads of the Southeast. Because on the shiny roads of the Northeast, ISWAP hyenas attack randomly but ruthlessly.

Kene Obiezu, keneobiezu@gmail.com

W

hat does Nigeria mean to me? It means hope and promise of a greater now and future; it means resilience and courage to rise from dust and nothing; it means purpose in disarray, unity in diversity, brotherhood in divergence and love even in dangerous times.

It will be a violent lie to say Nigeria is perfect or that it is all plain sailing for the country. Nigeria is perhaps in the throes of grating insecurity like never before; unemployment is soaring, inflation galloping and infrastructure decaying. The country is beset with problems all-around.

But Nigeria does not stay down. It has never stayed down. The country survived a civil war; it triumphed over an abusive military era and returned to democracy.

Nigeria has survived pestilence, riots and unimaginable chaos that split countries. It is still going. And it will keep going. Nigeria pulverised Ebola even when global projections said the disease will permeate the country. Nigeria is containing COVID – against all odds and gloomy predictions. Nigeria will always triumph – over the pestilence of the night; the darkness of Edom, principalities and powers; snakes and scorpions.

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 MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI 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, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, 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

Why does Nigeria always win – in the end? It is because you, me, they, them, we, us. It is because of all of us who despite our dissatisfaction with the system, come together to steady the ship and steer it aright against the blizzards and tempests.

It is because you who despite your financial challenges refuse to compromise the public purse; refuse to steal public funds or cut corners; it is because of you who decline to take bribes to get jobs done; it is because of you who against personal trials and tribulations refuse to join the choir of the scoffers who do not see anything good in the country and who will neither make an effort nor contribute a mite to its progress. It is because of all you who do not give up, but stand to fight for the country.

When I say ‘One Nigeria’ I do not deny the very obvious threats to our unity. I do not live in denial of the chasm keeping us apart, but I believe in that uncommon facility of Nigerians to close this gap and work together for the common good.

When it comes down to it, Nigerians are their brother’s keeper. We have seen this rare quality in display all the time.

When some criminals in Plateau State went on a vicious mission to kill Christians in 10 villages in Bakin Ladi area on June 23, 2018, Abubakar Abdullahi, an Imam, spirited away hundreds of Christians into his mosque shielding them from the grim reaper. When the butchers confronted the Imam, he refused to give up the over 263 souls he was saving from the emissaries of hell. He asked them to take his own life instead and spare the Christians. This is why Nigeria will always win. Even when the agents of darkness are encamped around us; the bearers of light will always rise up to vanquish the scions of the devil. There is a surfeit of goodness in Nigerians.

‘One Nigeria’ is not a political placebo; it does not mean the absence of conflict or a denial of the present realities; it is a term that should evoke hope and promise for us all.

Nigeria will always win.

Merry Christmas, Nigeria.

Fredrick Nwabufo is a writer and journalist

14

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 25, 2021

NEWS

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

Supply Disrupted as Five Power Towers Collapse in Lagos Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday reported a collapse of five of its electricity towers in parts of Lagos following an inferno from a vandalised pipeline along Isheri Olofin, off Igbando - LASU Expressway.

A statement by TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Mrs. Ndidi Mbah, said the development caused massive damage to the 330kV Ikeja-West Akangba transmission Line 1, burning off a large portion of the conductor.

According to the TCN, this triggered a resistant pull on the high-tension towers along the line route causing five of them to collapse.

The incident which is estimated to have occurred at about 00.29 in the early hours of yesterday, burnt a wide portion of the 330kV transmission line which wheels 145MW of bulk power to the Akangba substation.

The company disclosed that the transmission towers affected were the two closest to the site of the incident and three across the Lagos canal. “As a result of the incident, there is a major reduction of bulk power wheeled to TCN’s 330/132/33kV Akangba Transmission Substation in Lagos.

“However, due to the fact that the substation takes supply from two different 330kV transmission lines, with the second being the redundant line, TCN will rearrange bulk electricity transmitted

on that line route to the second 330kV previously carrying 59MW,” Mbah noted.

She added that presently, the TCN was successfully back-feeding the substations affected by the towers collapse, while the engineers were patrolling the second 330kV transmission line that tripped due to the incident, to ensure it had no fault before it is energised.

“Once it is energised, supply will

be restored to all the substations affected by the incident from the second 330kV transmission line, as the load carried by the burnt 330kV line will now be transferred to the second line,” the company stressed.

It added that the incident was a major setback to the implementation of its grid expansion and stability under its “well-articulated” Electricity

Grid Maintenance, Expansion and Rehabilitation Programme.

TCN noted that this was because the re-erection of five towers and restringing of the 330kV transmission line is a major project that costs a lot of money and will take a while to complete.

TCN appealed to Nigerians to desist from activities such as oil bunkering, and other destructive

tendencies, as they all have very far-reaching negative effects on the nation at large.

“The issue of protecting our national assets is imperative.

Protecting national assets is one that must be taken very seriously so that the stability of the nation’s network and the development of the nation is not compromised,” the government-owned company stated.

Protect Judges from Intimidation, Wike Charges Judiciary Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Rivers State Governor, Mr. Nyesom Wike, has noted with dismay the level of intimidation faced by judges in the cause of delivery of their duties.

He regretted the inability of the nation’s judiciary to always protect their judges.

Governor Wike made the observation yesterday, while swearing-in four new judges of the Rivers State High Court at Government House, Port Harcourt.

The four new judges are Popnen Sylvester Sunday, Daketima, Gabriel Kio, Chinelo Chidubem Odili and Nsirim Chinwe Amanda.

The governor said if judges, who are committed to upholding the rule of law and giving judgement on the merit of the case before them, are not protected by their colleagues, they would remain victims of intimidation.

The governor maintained that with the peak of political activities to set in 2022, there will be an increased level of intimidation of judges.

According to him, most political gladiators were bent to always have their way in every legal matter that involves them and never believe judgement to be against their prayers before the court.

Wike pointed out that

when judges know that their colleagues would rise in their defence, they will be courageous to handle cases, including political matters without shying away.

“If what is going on now is not stopped by NJC, I can assure you no political matter will go before any judge and that judge will have any courage to handle such matter.

“The intimidation by NJC on these judges is quite alarming and I have to say it clearly, if you don’t give your judges support to do what they’re supposed to do, then let us better forget that in 2023 that we will have it easy.

“From next year (2022), it will be very turbulent and so matters will come before judges, allow them to dispense the matter the way they think it is. That is why there is always an appeal.

“But the moment any judge gives a decision, we politicians must always write petition. That you cannot take away. No politician loses any case and thinks that there is nothing that went wrong.”

The governor charged the new judges to take their job seriously, promote a healthy work culture and avoid needless adjournments that delays the time taken to dispense with cases.

Kwankwaso Gives out Shekarau’s Daughter in Marriage Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, yesterday attended the wedding of Fatiha of Halima, daughter of former Governor of Kano State, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau.

The wedding took place at the Umar bn Al-Khattab Mosque, along Zaria Road,Kano.

The former governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, stood as Guardian of the bride, Ameera Ibrahim Shekarau.

Presiding over the wellattended wedding fathia, the

officiating clergy and Chief Imam of Umar Bin Kattab Mosque admonished the new couple about marriage institution and the need to exercise fear of God and patience in the life long journey.

The renowned Islamic scholar prayed for an enduring relationship between the couple and a blissful home endeared with love and faithfulness.

The Senate President was accompanied on the trip from Abuja by the Senate Leader, Dr. Yahaya Abdullahi, Senator Bello Mandiya and Senator Barau Jibrin.

APPRECIATION FOR GOOD WORKS …

L-R: The Member representing Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency, Hon. Cornelius Nnaji; Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi and Senator Gil Emeka Nnaji, when the people of Enugu East Local Government Area paid a Thank-you visit to Gov. Ugwuanyi at the Government House, Enugu, in appreciation of his administration’s numerous development projects in the area, yesterday.

Discos Condemn Alleged Military Attack on AEDC’s Staff in Abuja Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) in the country have condemned the alleged assault on employees of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) by soldiers in Abuja.

Coming under their umbrella body, the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED), the power distributors described the beating up of staff of the AEDC as “unjustifiable” and “cruel”.

ANED’s Executive Director of Research and Advocacy, Sunday Oduntan, said in a statement that the development portended grave danger for the power sector.

The statement was in response to a report in which four employees of the Disco narrated how they were detained and handed over to soldiers for torture by a senior

army officer.

The situation was said to have escalated when the AEDC members of staff went to deliver a demand letter (AEDC/DMU/12-21/118) to one Maj. Gen. HD Tafida at his Gwarimpa residence in Abuja over his indebtedness to the service provider.

Reports indicated that the top military officer ordered the torture and detention of the AEDC employees for merely doing their job.

“The staff were merely going about their legitimate duties.

They had done nothing wrong.

They merely went to serve a letter. How that led to soldiers being sent to look for them is beyond us. It didn’t end there.

“The soldiers arrested them presumably on the orders of the general and took them all the way from Gwarimpa

to Mambilla Barracks and proceeded to torture and humiliate them.

“Why in God’s name will you have a grown person flogged for going about his normal, legitimate assignment?

This is cruel, inhuman and unjustifiable,” the Discos lamented.

According to the power distribution companies, everyone, whether highly or lowly placed, has an obligation to pay for the power they have consumed.

“If you were paying, no one would serve you a letter of demand. Being an army general does not exempt you from paying for electricity consumed. The Nigerian army as an organisation, is one of our biggest customers across the country, so, this kind of conduct is not the way the army relates

with our members,” the Discos added.

By his action, ANED noted that the senior military officer deliberately decided to embarrass the Chief of Army Staff and the entire military.

“More than the opprobrium he has attracted to men in uniform generally though, is the fact that acts like this insert unjustifiable fear in the minds of hardworking Nigerians trying to earn a living. Being a Disco staff is an honourable profession.

“Despite the fact that our power sector has its issues, the daily technical and commercial efforts of these men and women which ensure that the power sector’s relationship with the end users is managed in a way that keeps the economy running is very, very significant,” the Discos stressed.

Magodo Landowners Condemn Illegal Execution of S’Court Judgement Wale Igbintade Some original landowners have described the recent execution of Supreme Court judgement in the highbrow Magodo/Shangisha area of Lagos State as illegal.

A statement issued by their lawyer, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN, said the illegal execution was in respect of the judgment in suit number ID/795/1988 between the military governor of Lagos State and others and one Adebayo Adeyiga was still pending before the Court of Appeal, Lagos State.

He stated that following the judgement of the Supreme Court, the judgement creditors engaged

the Lagos State Government to find an amicable settlement in line with the direction of the Supreme Court and were about to reach an agreement when the illegal execution was carried out. ‘’Surprisingly, one Adebayo Adeyiga without the consent of our Clients, initiated the process of execution of the Supreme Court judgement at the Lagos High Court by applying and causing to be issued Warrant of Possession and Warrant of Execution Forms dated 19th November 2015 purportedly on behalf of all the 549 Judgment Creditors,’’ he added.

According to Ayorinde, upon discovery of the steps taken by the said Adebayo Adeyiga his

law firm in an application dated 1st August 2016 on behalf of all the other Judgement Creditors urged the court to set aside the Warrant of Possession/ Warrant of Execution forms dated 19th November 2015.

He stated that, while the said application was still pending before Justice Adebiyi of the High Court of Lagos State, the said Adebayo Adeyiga, allegedly caused the then Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Funmilayo Atilade to issue the Warrant of Possession/ Execution Form dated 16th March 2017.

He stated that Justice Adebiyi in her ruling delivered on July 10, 2017, set aside the Warrant of Possession Form N dated

16th March 2017 issued and signed by the Chief Judge of Lagos State in favour of the said Mr. Adebayo Adeyiga.

According to him, the matter is currently before the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division and that counsel is representing the said Adebayo Adeyiga.

He said the issue before the appellate court is whether the Chief Judge of Lagos State can issue and sign a Warrant of Possession/ Execution in favour of AdebayoAdeyiga while purporting to be acting for other 548 Judgement Creditors even though he did not have the authority of the said Judgement Creditors to act on their behalf.

15

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 25, 2021

08054699539

El-Rufai’s Tragic Excuse for Security Failings

I

t was so depressing watching Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State last Tuesday bragging about “killing bandits” in his state. “The goal of the Kaduna State Government is to kill bandits wherever they are found. There is nothing like repentant terrorists. The only repentant bandit is the one that is dead. Our intention in the state is to kill them (terrorists), let them go and see God,” he bluffed after meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari. So, how many terrorists has el-Rufai’s government killed in all his almost seven years reign as governor? How many terrorists have the Special Forces and Armada of security agents in Kaduna State sincerely killed in almost seven years?

By el-Rufai’s government’s aggregate, 888 people were killed by terrorists in the state between January and September 2021.

The figures could be as high as 2000. Many are unreported. So, let el-Rufai give us the genuine statistics of terrorists killed in almost seven years in his state; not the fake one persistently released by security agencies.

In el-Rufai’s Kaduna, terrorists enjoy a free rein. That was why few days back, they killed 40 people in Kauran Fawa, Marke and Ruhiya in Giwa Local Government Area of the state, unhindered. The terrorists were not in a hurry to leave the three locations after the killings. They were so confident that there would be no repercussions. Truly too, as at press time, not a single one of the killers had been apprehended.

El-Rufai added an irrational dimension to his scamming, saying the locations of the terrorists are not mystery but that the military is only toeing the line of caution because of potential collateral damage an all-out raid could pose to innocent civilians. Haba, Nasir!

You are only justifying your ineptitude and that of the Armada of security agents on ground in Kaduna State. A well-trained, properly-equipped and properly-motivated security team will take out the terrorists with ease. In the alternative, Nigeria can seek the help of military contractors to get the job done. Nasir enjoys showboating so much while scores of people are killed daily by terrorists in his state. Ten days ago, in this same notorious Giwa LG, a member of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Rilwanu Aminu Gadagau, representing Giwa West, was killed by terrorists on his way to Kaduna.

While Nasir was grandstanding at the Villa last Tuesday, terrorists struck in Angwan Gwari, a suburb of Sabon Tasha area in Kaduna metropolis, killing a retired soldier.

No fewer than 20 people were abducted in the raid.

Last Tuesday, the terrorists killed seven people and injured 11 others in Kajuru and

El-Rufai

Chikun LGs. Again, last Wednesday, the terrorists came out in hundreds along the infamous Birnin Gwari highway in Kaduna and abducted 70 traders who were traveling to Kano. The abductees were taken into a neighbouring forest.

I meticulously recounted some of these recent killings to show that nothing has changed in Kaduna State. Honestly, el-rufai has been a big disappointment in this political era. In Kaduna State, terrorists persistently kill and kidnap people on the roads, highways, homes, farms, offices, schools, churches and mosques. Governor el-rufai’s response to attacks by terrorists is always predictable. He visits the community, laments the incessant killings and vows to tame the killers. The story ends there until there is another attack and he would repeat the same swagger. The killers are hardly apprehended. Back in March 2020, he told a bewildered nation that the bandits had been wiped out by security agents. It was a subterfuge. It never happened. This governor has to go beyond swaggering to end the killings in his state. Above all, he has to be impartial, if he truly wants result.

El-rufai should put real pressure on the federal government to do the needful and also proactively use his security vote, to achieve the objective of total elimination of terrorists in the state. It is also pertinent to note that Kaduna is a garrison state,

with huge number of military formations.

El-rufai has to seek for wisdom, coupled with his security vote, to mobilise the huge military formations here, for real assault on the terrorists. Besides, Governor El-rufai must show greater commitment to ending the killings and kidnappings by running the state dispassionately. The pounded communities see this governor and security agents as having compromised. El-rufai has to show leadership, amend his ways and learn to govern without favour.

Further, if el-rufai is genuinely interested in ending killings, he should sit down quietly and take another look at the message of the President, Christian Association of Nigeria, Olasupo Ayokunle to him in 2020 on how to end butcheries in Kaduna State. Ayokunle remarked: “Everybody is looking at the governor as a father of the state and this is the understanding with which he should handle every accusing finger pointed at him.

No bandit, gunman or cattle rustler should be allowed to strike and disappear into thin air any longer without being pursued to his or her base for arrest and prosecution.

“The guns in the hands of criminals should be recovered. Bushes should be combed with surveillance. Technology should be deployed extensively by the security agents to apprehend the criminals in their hideouts, including the mercenaries. All sources of ammunition the bandits and killers are using should be investigated and blocked. Community healing, forgiveness and reconciliatory meetings should be held, bringing different ethnic groups in communities together to chart the way forward for peace.”

President Buhari is also in this showboating club. He returned to Abuja from Turkey to the news of the killings in Kaduna, saying the last vestiges of terrorists were the ones soft-targeting innocent citizens, “looting their assets and burning houses, because they were already frustrated as a result of the heat turned on them by the nation’s troop.”

This is preposterous. In beloved Nigeria, terrorists regularly attack military formations.

This is the truth that can’t be hidden.

No wonder the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) called on the President to show more empathy towards victims of terror attacks in the region. This is appropriate. The group urged Buhari, governors, and northern leaders to do better and show the people they care by paying them sympathy visit.

“The President and Northern governors are by their actions creating the impression that only their lives and those of their family members matter,” remarked ACF. Meanwhile, I’m urging Nasarawa State governor, Abdullahi Sule, to act swiftly in order to prevent his state from joining the

The Blood Sucker Called Bello Turji Terrorist Bello Turji, leader of the group responsible for the recent attack that claimed 23 lives in Sokoto State and other killings in the North-west, is giving conditions to be met by government before he would end his attacks. It can only happen in Nigeria. The blood sucker called Turji wrote an open letter to President Buhari; Zamfara State Governor, Bello Matawalle and the Emir of Shinkafi, listing five conditions.

These include dissolution of vigilante groups in the North-west, a meeting with traditional rulers and religious leaders, and a stop to the “marginalization” of Fulanis.

Turji wrote: “We’re being killed unnecessarily. We’re being relegated to the background. We should be allowed to return to our houses and live normal lives. We also want to have a meeting with our traditional rulers and religious leaders to iron out issues…

We’re just tired of the marginalisation of

Bello Turji

the Fulanis especially in the markets.”

This is the same bloody Turji who

had just burnt 23 people alive talking about peace, Allah and his Prophet.

This useless man is responsible for the deaths of hundreds of others in the North-west while moving around freely and giving conditions for peace.

Security agents know his whereabouts.

Matawalle knows his whereabouts.

They can take this killer out but have failed to do so. This shows that Turji is enjoying official protection. I stand to be corrected.

Turji wants Islamic cleric, Ahmed Gumi as intermediary. I was not surprised about that. Gumi has always been a friend of the terrorists.

Turji must be crazy to claim marginalization of Fulanis. It is a bizarre justification for his life of crime. The Fulanis are today dominating everybody and everywhere in Nigeria. Also, I have not heard our President specifically directing security agents to apprehend Turji.

This is food for thought for everybody today.

inglorious club of areas ravaged by terrorists.

The recent killing of 45 people by Fulani militias in some communities in his state is appalling. The terrorists carried out the killings in Chabo, Daa, Wuchi, Tse-Udugh, Hagher and Shankodi in largely Tiv communities of Obi, Awe and Lafia local governments of Nasarawa State.

The attackers had a field day moving from one village to another, killing over 45 people and unchallenged by security forces. Sule must be proactive in building peace between the herders and Tiv natives.

He must also put pressure on the military to apprehend the killers among the herders.

This is the only way peace can genuinely return to Obi, Awe and Lafia LGs.

Inuwa

A Word for Governor Inuwa Yahaya My dear Governor Inuwa Yahaya, I’m not sorry to say that you have not shown maturity and finesse in your needless war against your erstwhile mentor in Gombe State, Senator Danjuma Goje. I still can’t understand what you are trying to achieve by hounding Goje, his aides and his supporters.

Few weeks back, you sent thugs after him, with an instruction that he should not be allowed into Gombe. Your thugs delivered.

They even killed somebody in the entourage of Goje. Yahaya, you have clearly been using the police and the judiciary against Goje.

Your Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, Zubairu Mohammed Umar and the state’s Acting Chief Judge, Justice Mu’azu Pindiga, are the arrow heads for your agenda against Goje.

Goje’s aide on new media, Muhammad Adamu Yayari, was detained for weeks, for no just cause. A frustrated Goje had to file a motion exparte before a Federal High Court in Gombe, where he sought an interim injunction restraining the police and the Gombe State Government from further invitation, continued reporting or interrogating him and his associates, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice for interlocutory injunction against the state’s government.

You have since violated the court’s order directing both parties to maintain status quo pending the ruling on the matter.

Your harassment of Goje and his people continues.

Dear Governor Inuwa, your attacks on Goje is an obvious abuse of power.

Power should always be used for the good of the people and the society. We are only here in this world for the moment.

I hope you realise this. Inuwa, you have to amend you ways and treat people with respect. Roaming with thugs and using state instrument against your opponent has no place in decent societies.

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SATURDAY DECEMBER 25, 2021 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 25, 2021

17

NEWS

Investors Stake N865bn in FG’s N250bn Sukuk Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The offer of N250 billion Sovereign Sukuk which opened on December 16, 2021, ended a week later with an unprec-

edented subscription of over N865 billion or 346 per cent, the Debt Management Office (DMO), has reported.

An analysis of the subscription data by the DMO revealed high

ICPC: NSCDC Commandant Forfeits 60 Buildings, Land to FG Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the final forfeiture of 60 buildings illegally acquired by a former Deputy Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Adenike Ishola Bintu, to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in a forfeiture proceedings, had approached Justice O. A. Egwuata,

praying for an order for the final forfeiture of the 60 buildings and a 9.6 hectare plot of land, both located at Sabon-Lugbe South-West Extension, Airport Road, Abuja, alleged to have been acquired by Bintu through corrupt means.

Counsel to ICPC, John-Paul Okwor, told the court that the commission was relying on Section 48 (1) (2) and (3) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, which gives it power to approach the courts to forfeit properties corruptly acquired by individuals.

levels of subscription from banks and fund managers (including pension funds), as well as noninterest financial institutions, ethical funds, cooperative societies and retail investors.

According to the debt management agency, the increasing level of participation by a more diverse and larger number of investors is a confirmation that its objectives of issuing Sovereign Sukuk to grow the domestic investor base and promote financial inclusion is being achieved.

It noted: “In addition, the high subscription level is proof of investors’ acknowledgement of

the impact the USD362.57 billion Sukuk issued between 2017 and 2020 has had on the development of road infrastructure in Nigeria.

“The DMO has reaffirmed that the proceeds of the N250 billion Sovereign Sukuk will be used to finance the rehabilitation and reconstruction of road projects across the six (6) geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory.”

The N250 billion issuance – the fourth in the series is a 12.80 per cent, 10-year Ijara sukuk due 2031, and will be used to finance up to 71 key economic

road infrastructure, identified by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs (MNDA).

Speaking during an investor forum and press conference in Abuja on Monday, the Director General of DMO, Ms. Patience Oniha, said the federal government opted for sovereign Sukuk for a number of reasons, including to enable it fund the construction and rehabilitation of key economic roads across the country as well as offer ethical investors

an opportunity to invest in government-issued securities.

She stressed that the government also hopes to achieve a higher level of financial inclusion, raise project-tied funds, and deepen the domestic financial markets. The N250 billion Sukuk was floated as part of the New Domestic Borrowing for the 2021 Budget deficit of N3.145 trillion.

Of that sum, the federal government had earlier raised N2.895 trillion through the DMO, leaving an outstanding of N250 billion which the Sukuk is designed to fill.

President to Sign 2022 Budget Next Week Deji Elumoye in Abuja The leadership of the National Assembly has disclosed that President Muhammadu Buhari will sign the N17.13 2022 Appropriation Bill into law next week.

This is just as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, claimed ignorance of the 360-man House’s collection of members signature for the reversal of the refusal of President Buhari to assent to the 2021 Electoral Act Amendment Bill.

President of the Senate, Dr Ahmed Lawan, while speaking with newsmen after meeting with President Buhari in the company of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, at the State House,

Abuja, said they were at the Villa on the invitation of President Buhari, who had wanted a thank you message to the National Assembly through its leaders for their services to the nation.

He expressed surprise at the decision of the President to veto the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2021, noting that the National Assembly had received the President’s reason for his action and that the next step is left for the legislature to work on the bill to be able to produce a perfect law that will help the nation’s electoral process.

Said he: “Mr. President invited the honourable speaker and me to come so he could thank the National Assembly through us for working so hard to pass the 2022 appropriation bill, which will be brought to Mr. President for his assent by next week by the grace of God.

Rising COVID-19 Cases Force UAE to Tighten Protocol against Nigeria, Others Chinedu Eze High COVID-19 cases and distrust about Nigeria’s documentation process prompted the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to include travellers from the country, Kenya, Tanzania and Ethiopia to more stringent protocol to ensure that persons with the virus do not enter the Arab nation.

This is coming as major US airlines are cancelling flights to some destinations in order to check the spread of Omicron variant of the Coronavirus pandemic.

In order to allow the airlines to prepare for the new COVID-19 protocol, UAE announced that the new process would take effect from December 27, 2021.

Reports indicate that the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Emergency Management Authority (NCEMA) and the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) announced the suspension of all inbound flights for national and international carriers and transit passengers from the four countries from Saturday, December 25, effective 7.30a.m.

Olu of Kobape Land is Dead The Oluwo Oba of Egbaland and former governor of Ogun State, Aremo Segun Osoba, has announced the death of th e O l u o f Ko b a pe lan d , O ba O l u f e m i Ta ylor.

O s o b a , i n a s tateme n t , sa i d t h e Alake o f Eg b a l a n d w i l l out in place on how Kobape would be administered.

The terse statement reads: “On the authority and approval of the Paramount ruler of Egba land, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, I announce that the Olu of Kobabe, Oba Olufemi Taylor has joined his ancestors.

“Arrangements for the administration of affairs of Kobape land are being put in place by the Alake of Egba land.”

STRATEGISING . . .

L-R: President Muhammadu Buhari, Speaker, House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila and Senate President Ahmed Lawan, during the National Assembly leaders’ visit to the President.....yesterday.

GODWIN OMOIGUI

FG Approves New National Biosecurity Policy Michael Olugbode in Abuja The federal government has approved a new National Biosecurity Policy for the country.

This is a practical demonstration of the commitment of the Nigerian government to the protection of the environment, human health and socio-economic development of the country.

Announcing the development, Minister of State for the Environment,ChiefSharonIkeazor, stated that the approval was given on Thursday at the special session of the Federal Executive Council meeting.

Ikeazor revealed that: “The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the National Biosecurity Policy and Action Plan 2022 – 2026 to ensure, among other things, biosecurity for

the protection of the environment and human health from harmful biological agents and to protect our socio-economic development.

“The policy document aims to foster an integrated and holistic Biosecurity strategy that will be implemented through One-health approach for the prevention, early detection, rapid response to biothreats and recovery from

biosecurity incidents.

“This policy is to ensure synergy and harmonisation among biosecurity stakeholders for effective and efficient operations of the national biosecurity systems. It is to ensure that all aspects of National and International Agreement, Conventions, Guidelines and other instruments on biosecurity are duly taken into consideration.”

Stop Involving Doctors in Our Welfare Matters, JOHESU Tells Govt Health workers under the auspices of Joint Health Sector Unions and the Assembly of Healthcare Professionals, JOHESU/AHPA have taken a major step to stop the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) in negotiating the welfare matters of their members with the Ministry of Health.

In letter to the Federal Ministry

of Health dated 16th December 2021 and signed by the Acting National Secretary, Comrade Mathew Ajorutu on behalf of the Chairman, Comrade Biobelemoye Josiah, the workers declared that henceforth, they would not participate in any negotiation brokered by the ministry, if physicians are involved.

JOHESU and AHPA accused the Federal Ministry of Health of encouraging the oppressive tendencies of the NMA through its biased policies against them and “the unending cycle of frustration orchestrated by the Directorate of Hospital Services which is dominated

by Physicians and logically the mouthpiece of the NMA.”

Continuing, they said: “The climax of these numerous aberrations usually manifests at times of trade disputes when the Honourable Minister of Health would lead teams made up of a high number of physicians to the negotiating table on matters relating/pertaining exclusively to members of JOHESU/ AHPA.

Afenifere Charges President Buhari to Recall Retired Soldiers over Insecurity

Runsewe Honoured as Brand Ambassador for RATTAWU

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Otunba Segun Runsewe, has been appointed the Brand Ambassador of Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts and Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU).

The National President of RATTAWU, Dr. Kabir Garba Sanni, disclosed this when the national body of RATTAWU paid a courtesy call to Runsewe in Abuja.

Sanni, who sought partnership with the National Council

The Pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to consider the insecurity situation in the country as warlike that requires recalling retired intelligent officers to complement the efforts of existing security organs to halt the war.

The group in a release by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, yesterday, maintained that there is no more time to be wasted in being more honest, decisive and comprehensive

in confronting the security situation if the country is to be prevented from going under.

While lamenting the level of insecurity in the country such as kidnapping, killing, arson and burning of vehicles conveying people from one place to another as happened recently on Kaduna highway and in Borno and Katsina states as well as the near daily occurrence of kidnapping in Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, Imo states among others, it insisted that the President must come out openly to give an ultimatum of two weeks to those carrying arms illegally to lay down their arms.

for Arts and Culture under the dynamic leadership of Runsewe, described culture as the proverbial double edge sword that if properly harnessed can serve not only as a source of unity but can also be used as a vital tool for forging unity in diversity among all nations of the world.

RATTAWU president, who was excited about the achievements of Runsewe within the past four years, enumerated the activities of RATTAFEST which he categorised as a competitive and non-competitive event.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 25, 2021

NEWS

Christmas Messages...

Christmas Messages... Christmas Messages...

Nigeria Going into a Reinforce Your Resolve for National Serious Year, Says IBB Rebirth, PDP Urges Nigerians Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Laleye Dipo in Minna

Former Military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida has predicted that 2022 will be “a serious” year in Nigeria.

In a recorded Christmas and New Year message made available to journalists in Minna yesterday, the former military president urged all Nigerians to therefore conduct

themselves very well during the course of the year.

“I seize this opportunity to wish the entire people of Nigeria a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, we

are getting into what I will not call turbulent but a serious period, I hope everybody will conduct himself very well during the course of the year.”

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday called on Nigerians to use the occasion of this year’s Christmas to further unite, show love to one another and reinforce their determination for a national rebirth in line with the party’s mission to rescue and rebuild the Nigerian nation from misrule.

In a Christmas message by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the party said that Christmas which marks the coming of our Lord -esus Christ to redeem

humanity, presents the nation with a momentous opportunity to rekindle hope and work together as one people under God to pull the nation out of the quagmire of the rudderless and inhumane APC government.

Ologunagba said that the PDP is deeply worried that in the last six years, Nigerians have been forced to mark Christmas in gloom, pain, anguish and utter despondency following excruciating economic hardship and worsened insecurity; the result of having an incompetent and insensitive administration in o΀ce.

Sanwo-Olu Preaches Peace, Compassion at Christmas Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has rejoiced with residents of the state, especially Christian faithful as they celebrate this year’s Christmas, which marks the birth of -esus Christ.

Governor Sanwo-Olu in a message of goodwill issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, yesterday, to L-R: Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Governor Douye Diri, his wife, Dr. Gloria, House of Reps member for Ogbia Federal commemorate the occasion, Constituency, Fred Obua, during the Carol of Nine Lessons at the Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall, Government House, Yenagoa, on Thursday. urged Christians in the state and Nigeria at large to embrace peace, harmony and tolerance in line with the teachings of -esus Christ.

He also implored Christians to emulate the life of -esus Christ

IN SPIRIT OF THE SEASON…

Lawan, Mark, Omo-Agege, Southern Senators, Others Canvass Prayer for Nation’s Peace, Unity Deji Elumoye in Abuja President of the Senate, Dr. Ahmad Lawan; former Senate President, Senator David Mark; Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege; his predecessor, Senator Ike Ekweremadu and the Southern Senators Forum have called on Nigerians to pray for peace and unity of the country.

Lawan and other Senators in their various 2021 Christmas goodwill messages yesterday, stressed that what the nation needs presently is fervent prayer for the preservation of unity and integrity of the

country.

The Senate President in his message said beyond the great merriment and thanksgiving that have come to be associated with the season, Christmas reminds mankind of the humble birth, simple life, teachings and sacriÀcial love of -esus Christ.

According to him, this is the reason why the season is for practical demonstration of love and universal goodwill through giving to the needy and sharing with neighbours.

He, therefore, urged Nigerians to engage only in activities that enhance peace and harmony in their immedi-

ate environment and beyond, in the true spirit of the season.

In his message, Senator Mark expressed concern over the unabating spate of violent crimes and insecurity across Nigeria and urged security operatives to review strategy towards reversing the situation.

According to him, Nigerians have been exposed to more than enough ridicule on account of the insecurity challenges, saying “Governments and security agents should do more to restore hope and trust in the land.”

He noted that the present security strategy seems not

to be yielding the expected results saying “a review of the operational strategy is therefore necessary in order to address the intractable issues.”

Part of the proposed review of strategy, he said, should include a comprehensive research to Ànd out why some people resort to violence and taking up arms against their fellow citizens and a country they once loved.

“There is no need to pretend or shy away anymore. It should be stated categorically that the tragedy that has befallen Nigeria in terms of insecurity is beyond ordinary,” he stressed.

Atiku, Ayu, Anyim, Ask Nigerians APC: We Remain Committed to Innovations, to Embrace Unity, Show Love to All Processes that Improve Electioneering Processes Chuks Okocha in Abuja

As the world celebrates Christmas today to mark the birth of -esus Christ, Nigerians have been urged to embrace peace and unity at this period, and to love one another for the sake of progress and growth in the country.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in a Christmas message released by his Media O΀ce in Abuja, called on Nigerians to unite for the greater good of Nigeria.

The statement partly reads: “I felicitate with all Nigerians, particularly the Christian faithful on the birth anniversary of -esus Christ.

“Christmas is a time of love, therefore, I call on all Nigerians

to emulate the essence of this season and unite for the greater good of our dear country.

“Christmas is the season of love, joy, generosity and forgiveness and while we celebrate with family and friends, we should also spend time to pray for a more peaceful and prosperous nation as it is important for Nigerians to inject the healing and unifying serum of love for our neighbours into the nation’s consciousness, this Yuletide.

“As a nation, we can achieve more if we stay united, extend hands of fellowship to one another and be law abiding. We must also rededicate ourselves to the virtues of faith in God, love for one another and make these virtues more evident and practical in our daily living.

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has assured it remains committed and solidly supports constitutionally permitted and practical innovations and processes that will improve the transparency and credibility of Nigeria’s electioneering processes.

The National Secretary of APC Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC), Senator -ohn Akpanudoedehe, stated this in the party’s Christmas message to Nigerians.

He said, “The polity is rife with assorted views on the 2021 Electoral Act Amendment Bill. For us in

the APC, we remain solidlycommitted and support constitutionally-permitted as well as practical innovations and processes that will improve the transparency and credibility of Nigeria’s electioneering processes and internal democracy, speciÀcally the nomination of political party candidates.”

The party urged all to use the joyful season to give and show love to fellow men, particularly the needy and vulnerable.

It urged prayers and support for the country’s selÁess security and other essential services massively deployed around the country to ensure safe travel and Yuletide festivities.

by making tolerance, meekness, sacriÀce and humility their personal virtues, in line with the teachings and practice of -esus Christ during his lifetime.

The governor urged Lagosians to go about their normal activities without the fear of molestation as his administration had taken proactive measures with security agencies to guarantee hitch-free Christmas celebrations for residents of the state.

He said: “As we celebrate Christmas, I am extending my best wishes to every Nigerian, especially Christians across the country and other parts of the world.

Christmas Represents Hope, Joy, Says PFN President Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan The President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, has called on Nigerians not to be dampened by whatever harrowing experience they might be going through presently as the birth of -esus Christ which is being celebrated around the world, represents hope and joy for mankind.

Oke, who is also the President of The Sword of the Spirit Ministries, gave the encouragement yesterday in his Christmas and New Year message.

He counselled that the birth of -esus Christ offers an opportunity

to the people for them to commit their ways to God and be truthful in their earthly service to humanity.

“This season which celebrates the birth of our Lord, -esus Christ, represents hope and joy for all the people of the earth. So, regardless of the situation we find ourselves, this opportunity given to you and I, on a silver platter, shows that we should be more than grateful by serving Him, the Almighty, with everything in us,” he said.

The cleric also called on the authorities in the country to in the spirit of the season which according to him calls for sober reflections, double up efforts in confronting the challenges facing the people in all forms.

Obi Urges Christians to Show More Love, Give Their Best for Societal Devt The Vice Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2019 elections, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on Christians to show more brotherly love and imbibe the spirit of giving their best for the good of others and for the development of society.

Obi, who made the call in his Christmas message to Nigerians, explained that the celebration of the birth of Chris,t should be a constant reminder of how God gave His only begotten son for the salvation of humanity.

“We, as humans, should, therefore, endeavour to make sacrifices, even when it is painful, for the good of

others and for our society,” Obi said.

He urged Nigerians to go beyond the festivities and glamour associated with the Christmas season and strive to live out the true essence of the celebration.

According to him, fraternal love and giving to the poor are the hallmark of Christmas celebration, even as he enjoined all to lend helping hands to one another.

Obi argued that “many societal ills plaguing Nigeria today, particularly rising insecurity, poverty, unemployment and drug abuse are mainly because we the leaders lack love and the spirit of sacrifice for the people.”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 25, 2021

19

Ferdinand Ekechukwu 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Yinka Ayefele Rolls Out ‘Manifestation’ Gospel musician, Yinka Ayefele recently released his 25th record titled “Manifestation”. The nine-track album released nationwide preceded the 24th anniversary of the ghastly car incident which became a turning point in his life. To mark the occasion, Ayefele, at a ceremony rolled out the drums to celebrate 12 people who, like the rock of Gibraltar, have stood by him through thick and thin. Ferdinand Ekechukwu writes

Y

inka Ayefele has continued to wax stronger. For those who truly know the story of this gospel music prodigy, his legacy and love for music has seen the face of gospel music change in Nigeria. When, by happenstance, he released his first album, Bitter Experience, a lot of people said he was patronised because of his condition. His second album, Sweet Experience changed that notion as it was widely accepted.

Following that life changing encounter, it has become somewhat a tradition for Ayefele to drop album annually. A thing Ayefele attributes to the favour of God. Little wonder his kind of music appeals to both Christian and Muslim brothers, and thus has earned him the claim as the only Nigerian gospel artiste with lots of Muslim fans in Nigeria.

Now, for the fans of the ‘Tungba’ gospel crooner who waited anxiously to relish his new record this year, it was worth the time as it finally berthed this month of December.

Ayefele’s ‘Manifestation’ was officially released nationwide Sunday, December 19, six days to Christmas. The nine-track record marketed and distributed by Aloy Production International, cascades Ayefele’s signature sounds in songs on the album and template in titles as Iwo ni Oluwa, Oba Awon Oba, We Praise You Lord, Lily of the Valley, Duro De Oluwa, Orin Ogo, Ebu Dike (Hail My Jesus), Gbe Oluwa Ga, and Awon Temi.

The ‘new baby’ of the award-winning iconic singer, ‘Manifestation’, pushes his discography to 25, aside thousands of live records and a handful of singles. Also released is the video of his 2020 album entitled ‘Ekundayo’, which is marketed and distributed by the Ibadan-based Role Model Entertainment Limited. The previous albums released by the gospel musician include Something Else, Divine Intervention, Fun Fair, Life after Death, released in honor of Gbenga Adeboye, a Nigerian radio presenter, musician and comedian, Everlasting Grace, Living Testimony and Prayer Point, among the long list of records.

His foray into music started with his first two recorded singles. “The first two songs I produced were recorded in a cassette, which

was in my custody before I had the accident.

After I was involved in the accident, two of my mentors advised that I add more songs and release it. That way, it could be launched at a fundraiser for my treatment abroad. My first album turned me into a musician because I still wanted to remain a broadcaster. The acceptance of my Bitter Experience and Sweet Experience albums encouraged doing music more” he recalled in an earlier interview.

It was in appreciation of the electronic media during his trying times the inspiration to float the radio station seared through.

He further recounted. “I think it was when I was shooting the video of first album ‘Bitter Experience’, I just flashed back and saw the assistance I received from the electronic media during those trying moments. It was then I thought about owning a radio station and I began the process…”

Ayefele is the Chief Executive Officer of the most popular radio station in Ibadan, South-west of Nigeria, Fresh FM. His first album chronicled his sad experience in a ghastly car crash on December 12, 1997, on his way to Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

Ayefele had worked briefly as journalist and broadcaster at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Ibadan, where he also produced jingles and musical works.

To mark the 24th anniversary of the incident, Ayefele, at a ceremony held in Jogor Centre, Ibadan, on Sunday, December 12, 2021, rolled out the drums to celebrate 12 people who, like the rock of Gibraltar, stood by him through thick and thin. It was an event graced by who-is-who in the government of Oyo State and politicians from across party lines, including members of the State Executive Council, the House of Assembly and the National Assembly.

Tagged 12/12 Thanksgiving, Ayefele heartily gave out awards to the 12 people who are mostly members of his globally acclaimed Merry Maker Band, particularly Mr. David Aremu, his lead talking drummer who goes by the stage name Jegede. His wife of many years and mother of triplets,

Hi-Impact Planet Fetes Customers at Christmas

T

he recent anger generated by the banning of Nigerians by the governments of Canada, Saudi Arabia, UAE and United Kingdom over the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is needless as the country possess all it takes for its citizens to stay home and enjoy the yuletide season.

The Chairman of Nigeria’s biggest and foremost tourism company, Hi-Impact Planet Amusement Park and Resort, Prince Adeyanju Lipede has advised Nigerians to look inward especially during holiday seasons to enjoy their money and save themselves the yearly hardship of looking for visa for self and family as well as deciding on which country to visit when there are more than enough places to visit and have a memorable holiday in Nigeria.

While condemning these countries for singling out only African countries for the ban when many European countries that have worse cases of Omicron were not punished, Lipede said spending hard earned money at home has capacity to grow the economy.

“Not a few commentators have argued that the best way to grow a nation’s economy and ensure a strong currency is to engage in production as well as consume what your country produces, let us stay here in our country and stop taking our money

to grow other nations economy,” Lipede said.

According to Adeyanju Lipede, Hi-Impact Planet Amusement Park and Resort has games and different kinds of rides for both adults and kids, swimming pool, well-furnished self-service apartments, hall for different kinds of event, tennis courts and five aside football pitch, a clinic, an arena that has capacity to host crusades and musical shows as well as permanent police and private security personnel to provide adequate security for fun seekers.

He then urged people to free themselves from the stress and hassles of getting passports, applying for visas, getting Covid -19 tests as well as vaccinations by bringing their families to Hi- Impact Planet for a wonderful and memorable holiday season.

Speaking further, Adeyanju said a number of activities had been lined up for the enjoyment of guests and fun seekers when the Park opens fully on Wednesday 22nd till New Year. “A number of impactful and long- lasting events have been lined up for their enjoyment including Tope Alabi leading other top Gospel Artistes like Onos Ariyo, Bidemi Olaoba, Yinka Alaseyori, Sensational Bamidele, Dj D’MO and a host of others to praise God on Sunday 26th on a free concert at the Park Arena located inside the Amusement Park,” he said.

Ayefele

Mrs. Tope Ayefele, who was among the 12 ‘Samaritans,’got a four-flat building of three bedroom flats each as a gift from her husband in addition to the award.

Appreciating the ‘good Samaritans’, Ayefele said “Please help me thank these people who have been a strong pillar for me since that unfortunate accident which happened 24 years ago. They have been steadfast and loyal. The accident of 24 years ago was my turning point. I thank God for His faithfulness. I thank God for the manifestation of His grace, mercy and goodness in my life at all times. Today, my bitter experience has turned to sweet experience. Indeed, ekun mi ti dayo (my sorrowful tear has become joy). Thank you all for your love, prayers and support,” he said.

The event was held together with the annual Miss Oyo Beauty Pageant hosted by Mayor

Isaac Brown, Ayefele’s man Friday and host of the popular political interview programme on Fresh FM, ‘Political Circuit’. Not only did Ayefele reward his band members for their loyalty, he also extended the celebration to 12 lucky winners who had bought entry tickets to the event.

Picked through a raffle draw conducted by the regulatory group, Ayefele in appreciating God for sparing him in the accident lavished nine (9) brand new Hisense refrigerators, a complete living room settee and two brand new TV sets on the winners.

The hall erupted in jubilation as the gifts were issued to the winners who were full of praise to Ayefele and prayed God to continue to bless him. The Ipoti-Ekiti-born singer assured his fans worldwide he will never let them down, promising to continue to dish out good songs.

MultiChoice Treats GOtv Customers to a Content Feast this Festive Season

P

ay-tv platform, MultiChoice, gifted in the art of premium and quality entertainment is guaranteed to keep its GOtv customers glued to their screens this festive season.

From reality shows like Big Brother Naija and Gulder Ultimate Search, to recent Africa Magic drama series, The Rishantes and Movement-Japa, a rich catalogue of premium sports, and an array of other local and international programming, MultiChoice keeps pushing the envelope when it comes to satisfying the diverse entertainment tastes and preferences of its customers.

With the festive season in full swing, the video entertainment company has promptly made provisions to ensure that its GOtv customers never have a dull moment. First on the list is the newly introduced GOtv Supa package, which is the top tier package on the DTT service. The package subscription costs only N5,500 and boasts of an extensive catalog of general entertainment channels as well as the existing sporting action available on GOtv Max. GOtv Supa also features additional chan-

nels like Honey, Africa Magic Urban, WWE, TL Novelas, Novela Magic, ROK, KIX, Nick Jr and NickToons, which means an increase in the variety of lifestyle, kids, local and international content. For the holidays, GOtv Supa package offers users an affordable upgrade that unlocks a world of the finest entertainment for the entire family, making it the ultimate gift this festive season.

MultiChoice is also offering a special discount offer for the festive season. The limited time only offer gives prospective customers the opportunity to own a GOtv decoder, GOtenna and one-month subscription on Max package at N7,900. The company thought it considerate to offer new entrants an opportunity to enjoy the quality entertaining content at an affordable rate.

And then there’s the long list of content available this season and beyond. A massive dose of it is expected to be delivered, especially with this season’s latest lineup.

Content on the GOtv Supa menu include and are not limited to the best of movies, telenovelas, series, documentaries, kiddies shows and sport offerings across a wide variety spanning football, WWE, NBA, among others.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 25, 2021

SHOWBIZFLAIR

AY (high), Osita Iheme, RMD, and a cast on set of Christmas in Miami

In Christmas in Miami, AYReprises His Role as Akpos Ferdinand Ekechukwu

F

rom Atlanta, to Jamaica, to Sun City, and now in Miami, comic character Akpos continues his wave making antics in the much anticipated movie, Christmas in Miami, which opened last night across cinemas nationwide. This film stars Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), AY, Osita Iheme, IK Ogbonna, John Amos of the Coming to America fame, Tanya Price, and many others. The Ayo Makun’s comedy feature film appears a fresh breath of comic wonders going by its visual contents which portrays hilarious scenes.

In ‘Christmas in Miami’, the lead character, AY reprises his role as Akpos, following his rib-cracking and havoc-wreaking adventures in ‘30 Days in Atlanta’, ‘A Trip to Jamaica’ and 10 Days in Suncity. This time, he travels with

his family to the exotic city of Miami, Florida, to represent Nigeria at the “Intercontinental Christmas Fiesta Show”, a unifying Fiesta that brings together 6 families from 6 very diverse nations across 5 continents to spend the week leading up to Christmas together, on an exotic Island in Miami, USA. The story was created by AY, produced by Darlington Abuda, and directed by Robert O Peters. The project features an American family, a Chinese family, a Brazilian family, a British family, an Indian family, and a Nigerian family.

Christmas in Miami is the fourth installment in the Akpos series. Since he made the transition from standup comedy to the big screen, AY has cemented his status as a box office star, with his films enjoying commercial success.

Now, relying on the charismatic presence of veteran movie star Richard Mofe-Damijo and the outrageously

humourous antics of Osita Iheme, AY is set to thrill movie fans yet again with ‘Christmas In Miami’. AY previously shared a video of the trio walking in slow motion in what can be called his first teaser for the movie. Speaking on the movie earlier, he said it’s a multi-ethnic story of unity in diversity. It celebrates how we are all different, but the same, or how we are all ‘the same difference.

“Christmas transcends skin colour and racial barriers, and so Intercontinental Christmas Fiesta Reality Show aims to unite borders by helping each of the nations represented to also debunk long-held negative stereotypes and perceptions that the general public has had about them. For example, The American family will like to change the world’s ‘misguided’ perception that Americans always see themselves as…

‘The world’s policemen’ …believing

that ‘the entire world needs America’s help’, because...

“Without America, the world cannot survive!’ “The Chinese family will like their participation to educate the world that all Chinese people don’t look exactly the same and not all Chinese people are Martial Artists. And the Indians, well, they need you to know that not every Indian is an IT expert. Brazilians want to tell the world that not all Brazilians have dark hair, dark eyes, and dark skin, fit bodies and… big butts, whilst The Almighty British can confirm a fact we all already suspect…

“When we’re not drinking tea, we’re drinking alcohol.” And finally, there is no talk of diversity if you don’t bring in the black race. So let’s throw in a black country.

Who else but the never-tiring Nigerians.

Surely, Nigerians are the most keen to change the world’s number one held belief, that… All Nigerians are Scammers”.

DJ Neptune: My Goal is to MakeTimeless Music Sunday Ehigiator

Disc Jockey, Patrick Imohiosen, known as DJ Neptune, says his goal is to deliver timeless music. Having one evergreen song to his credit, ‘Nobody’, his 2020 smash single, featuring Joeboy and Mr. Eazi, the multiple award-winning DJ has stretched his ‘Greatness’ ladder more than fifty steps higher, with his justreleased ‘Greatness 2.0’ album, which he hopes would present more evergreen songs to Africa and the world, “all things being equal and by the grace of God.” Neptune in a recent chat explained how the sixteen-track sophomore robbed him of his sleep for scores of months saying, “It wasn’t easy getting twentyseven artistes on one album project, but because I had a goal, I had a target and something I wanted to achieve with this project, so with God and a lot of patience and endurance on my part, we made it.

Neptune, who is unarguably one of the

most booked DJs for 2021 didn’t mince word saying that “2021 has been good to me in spite of the many challenges.”

He maintains with a smile: “This is the hustle; we work hard to get booked. This is just what we all pray for, so I cannot complain one bit. We prayed for it, so we have to handle it.”

The hit-laden sound piece titled ‘Greatness 2.0’ with a star-studded lineup featuring the likes of Waje, Zlatan, Laycon, Joe Boy, Patoranking, Rema, Adekunle Gold, Stonebwoy, among others, stands out as Neptune’s biggest sound piece having the highest number of potential hit songs in one album.

A no-skip album, laced with easy-going groove, party bangers, and a ting of inspirational lyricism, it’s the pattern that has trademarked his projects, from his earliest stints with the late Dagrin, Naeto C and MI Abaga, to his ‘Greatness’ series, among others. For the 31-year-

old DJ, the assignment remains simple: steadily create timeless sound pieces.

The Edo-born showbiz icon had hinted of how the ‘Greatness 2.0’ project wasn’t originally planned: “Whilst working on my debut album, in 2018, I was going to name the project something else.

“On a particular day, I was taking a nap.

It felt like someone was communicating to me that ‘you are doing great stuff; you are doing amazing stuff and greatness is all I see.’ It became so impossible to let go of that voice. I woke up and the word was still ringing in my head. I went back into the studio and started hyping all my songs with ‘greatness.’ That was how it came to be.”

As for how he arrived at his choice of artistes for the collaborative works, he said when he picked artistes to work with, it was just him having an idea in his head. The ‘Greatness 2.0’ opening song, Rise Up, features Waje, Ladipoe, Laycon and the Kabusa Choir.

DJ Neptune

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 25, 2021

PEOPLE Akin and Oluwatoyin Olatunji-Daniel

We are Living Out the Things We Have Mapped Running Business in Nigeria can be tough, but with dedication and commitment, one can pull through. This is exactly what Akin and Oluwatoyin Olatunji-Daniel have been doing. Visionary, focused, hardworking and exceptional best describe this superlative couple and business partners who have continued to redefine corporate world with their professional work ethics based on integrity, ingenuity and creativity. They are co-founders of Eventecture, an interior decor, retail marketing and television production company based in Lagos. Akin andToyin have lightened many events with their crafts. After 11 years of running a successful business with wow effect, they decided to expand their tentacles globally, this time in hospitality and others. In this encounter with Sunday Ehigiator, Akin and Toyin share their vision and mission, challenges of running business in Nigeria and why they embarked on their latest exploit.

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fter a decade plus in entrepreneurship, would you say it has gotten easier?

Entrepreneurship is basically about the visionary’s value proposition. Value addition is a journey and not a destination, it has been a tough journey for us, to the outside world, we have done such amazing, applauded work but internally, we know the challenges and burden we face daily. Today, after 11 years, it has not gotten any easier. I will say we have our good days and our bad days when it has been as Herculean as can be. Now that we have commenced a fresh journey with new subsidiaries locally and globally, especially in spaces, which are slightly different from our trajectory so far, you can imagine the challenge. So, swim or surf, go with the flow.

same with the US Real Estate space which we know is one of the most dynamic in the world .These two industries belong to the hospitality sector so it’s quite expected as we are inseparable with the hospitality business. We are but living out the things we have mapped out on paper.

These new ventures are highly competitive spaces, does this give you cause for concern?

We have done our ground work, and we hit the ground running already. We are also equipped with resources that enable us navigate our way off of any challenges and stay learning and earning. This was the way, Eventecture commenced years ago, we didn’t have much of precedence but we forged new paths in the events and advertising/marketing space and we will do it again.

Nigeria’s business terrain can be challenging: how are you managing to retain your creativity and staying afloat?

Hmmmmm, challenging is quite an understatement, however, we keep rising above the fire.

Adapting to change, not letting our wins get to our heads, listening to our stake holders, clients and team members alike are some of the ways we are looking to maintain continuity. Special credit to the amazingly creative and resilient team at Eventecture, they are the real MVPs along the journey, the sleepless nights on site and at the factory, the creative ideas brought to life every time, they have kept us afloat by delivering excellently on practically every brief.

What have been the biggest challenges of your Eventecture journey and what have been the high points so far?

Running a business in Nigeria can be quite tough. We would really wish for some respite in the operating environment. Quick access to affordable credit for established businesses would be a great start. Some tax holidays or incentives would also be a welcome respite.

Small businesses are the heartbeat of the nation and we would do well to nurture them to grow and flourish What exactly is the nature of your expansion?

We are extending our influence across the hospitality sector. Eventecture Nigeria will now comprise Eventecture, Atlantis by Eventecture, Custom Walls Ng, Three 6 Zero Experiential while on the international scene, Eventecture USA would comprise Bullritos and Asset Connect.

In Nigeria, Eventecture remains. Atlantis

by Eventecture offers world class event technology for production, Custom Walls NG is a creative décor brand focused on production of customized wallpapers, and offering bespoke, on- the- spot, wall décor designs to suit a variety of purposes, spaces and expressions, moods and brand requirements targeted at individuals and corporate clients. Three 6 Zero Experiential is an experiential event production and management company to serve corporate clients’ longstanding demands.

On the international scene – under Eventecture USA, Asset Connect is a Property Acquisition & Management Company while our recently acquired franchise, Bullritos, a Tex-Mex Restaurant located in Houston, Texas is a popular restaurant chain renowned for delivering American meals made out of fresh ingredients, generous portions, fast friendly service, a wonderful atmosphere all at a fair price.

With the economy just trying to rebound after the pandemic year, what informed your decision to expand locally and internationally?

Our mentality has always been no retreat no surrender. Entrepreneurship is about looking for opportunities where others see problems.

Last year, our industry was practically the most affected by the pandemic and we still had bills to pay and staff with families looking up to us. It was awake up call for us to intensify our already exist-

Akin and Oluwatoyin Olatunji-Daniel

As a key player in this industry, how best could the government support this industry to keep it thriving?

We need policies that support the industry.

Our Industry is a creative and revenue generating pillar of the nation. It will be encouraging to get government approved training schools for artisans, even have Event Design, Management & Planning Incorporated into the University Curriculum. Proper regulatory guidelines in place to ensure that things are done properly will be a welcome development.

ing diversification efforts. It was time to step up to the plate, especially as some of these companies are meeting clients’ pressing demands based on our track record as a business. Look at Custom Walls for example, with the working from home, becoming an almost permanent trend, more people need their homes to look aesthetic, optimised so they are energised and happy to work and spend more time in their own space.

Three 6 Zero caters to clientele asking us to plan experiential events for their brands especially with our pedigree in producing outstanding events stage, experiential sets, lighting, sounds and more. Each subsidiary is coming to meet a need. The goal of every entrepreneur should be to solve more problems and scale their business basically some sort of diversification of portfolio, like COVID has taught us all.

What pivotal role would you say you play in this industry?

We have earned our bragging rights if we do say so ourselves. Professionalism and diligence with which we have excellently executed every brief has earned us a seat at the table of decision makers in our industry. The Events and Marketing space, especially in Nigeria within our continent, is a highly creative and dynamic space. The decision makers have invested and continue to invest millions of dollars in making their productions happen. It is so wonderful to know when any client has a brief that’s giving them sleepless nights; they know if they can dream it, we’d design and build it! That’s our pivotal role in the industry.

We make dreams happen; we build dreams from concept to reality.

You’re looking to delve into the restaurant and real estate sectors next year. How would

The events and creative industry is a billion dollar one globally, what can players in this space do differently, to become global players and grow our local economy?

Keep evolving, be intentional, stay focused on what truly matters, collaborate with foreign counterparts, also, standardization of our operations. We have creativity in abundance, however, there’s a huge gap in technical knowledge required to execute these ideas. Once we get this right, we’ll be untouchable.

Akin and Oluwatoyin Olatunji-Daniel

this help with your long-term growth and improve sustainability?

It’s been eleven years of learning the ropes of entrepreneurship. We have learnt a lot. It’s time to execute all our plans. Food and housing are constant in an ever-changing world, whether in Lagos or in the United States. Food business in the United States is worth trillions of dollars,

You’ve said Nigeria’s creative industry is not only very lucrative but one of the most innovative globally, how come this isn’t reflecting for many players financially and in terms of recognition?

There are many moving parts to running a sustainable business. Talent and creativity will never be enough. A lot of players within our industry locally are driven by passion and the love for the job. However, these are only enough to start.

There are so many parts to scaling a business and the challenges are ever multiplying. My candid advice for entrepreneurs in this sector is to study and understand the “business of creativity” so as to be able enjoy the rewards that are possible.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 25, 2021

TRAVEL AND LEISURE

How Ekiti State Repositioned with NAFEST 2021 Beyond its power of entertainment, arts and culture have become two veritable tools used by major countries and cities in recent times for destination branding. It is perhaps against this background that Ekiti state came into global and national reckoning recently when, against all odds, the Fayemi administration hosted the 2021 edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) 2021.

John Ajayi writes that the state raised the bar for the annual event as it gave over 100,000 delegates from the 36 states of the Federation super treatments that left many in awe and admiration

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he year 2021 edition of National Festival of Arts & Culture (NAFEST2021) may have come and gone, yet the memory of the one-week event will forever linger in the annals of National Cultural Festivals and amongst competitors and participants from the 36 states of the Federation.

When Ekiti state signified intention to host this event two years ago after the Jos, Plateau state hosting, not quite a few people in the arts and culture community thought the hosting right request by Ekiti state was a tall order and a pipe dream.

First, many people had considered the ambition of the 25 year old agrarian state a mere ego trip in view of the state’s ranking on the Federal Government’s monthly revenue allocation and resources distribution index.

To cynics, Ekiti state lacked the basic and requisite facilities and resources that are pivotal to hosting such a major national event. But the just concluded festival which started 13th November and ended 20th of November this year put paid to all doubts and negative permutations.

To crown the elaborate plan earlier put in place for a hitch-free, brilliant and successful 34th edition of NAFEST, Ekiti State emerged over-all best winner in most of the competitive and non-competitive games, thereby making it a new dawn of glory and admiration for the administration of Governor John Kayode Fayemi who has not hidden his vision of turning Ekiti state to a destination of first choice to tourists and investors.

Indeed, the state has in large measure and greater abundance exciting tourist centers with numerous natural resources. Ekiti state is potentially rich in mineral deposits. Some of these tourists centers with significance and national importance are the famous Ikogosi Warm Spring, the Orole and Olosunta Hills, Arinta Water Fall, Fajuyi Parks. Others are: Esa Cave, Ogun Onire Groove, Agbonna Hill, Oke Abanijorin, Sacred Fishes River, Oroke Ewo War Centre, etc.

Prior to hosting the NAFEST, Ekiti state has ensured everything was in place to make the state a destination brand through strategic re-engineering of its assets and upgrading of infrastructure and social facilities.

As marketing authorities would concede, “destination branding is about identifying the destination’s strongest and most competitively appealing assets in the eyes of its prospective visitors, building a story from these that make the destination stand out above its competitors, and running this narrative consistently through all marketing communications.

Specifically, Tom Buncle, Former Chief Executive of Visit Scotland and Current Managing Director of an International Tourism Consultancy explained that “a destination brand cannot be created. It is up to tourist boards and destination marketing organisations to identify their destination best assets in order to invoke certain feelings, values cultures and the overall mindset that people experience when visiting a place” Similarly, Buncle pointed out that it also means people in the destination play a part in contributing to the tourism brand values, experience, reputation, and mindset. All of these were in sufficient measure and supply at the Ekiti Nafest 2021 even to the utter dismay of delegates from oil rich states in Nigeria.

Aside the famous tourists centers and places of attractions, and other facilities that were on ground, to make the festival run with effortless ease, Visitors and delegates to state were attracted and highly impressed by the newly commissioned Ekiti State Civic Center. The Civic Center, one of the many legacy projects of the

L-R: Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC),Olusegun Runsewe, and Governor Fayemi

Back to back, as the hosting state, Ekiti State, the land of honour, again emerged overall winner of the 34th edition of NAFEST. This was announced during the closing ceremony at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion Ado-Ekiti. The state was followed by Rivers State, then Bayelsa and Benue States as joint third position, Delta and Nasarawa States came fourth, while Ogun and /DJRV 6WDWHV JRW WKH ÀIWK SRVLWLRQ current JKF administration is an architectural masterpiece and a multi-purpose edifice of unimaginable splendor and candour.

For Ekiti people, who received contingents from 36 states of the federation and some international observers, it was the biggest crowd they have witnessed in recent history. Beyond the opportunity it provided for networking, the festival gave the locals opportunity to display their wares and make good money within the period. From the players in the hospitality business, farmers, artisans and other actors in the state’s SME, it was a boom period for businesses.

Perhaps the story can better be told by visitors from across the country who were marveled by the level of preparation put in place by the state government. Aside from the basic facilities that were on ground to make the festival run with ease, the visitors were impressed by the organized manner the event was planned and executed.

In particular, delegates from the states

believed to be richer than Ekiti were jealous of the state of the art infrastructure in the state.

At the Civic Center, where all the major activities were held, delegates were seen discussing in admiration facilities at the civic center which include museum, cinemas and supermart. Above all, the elegance and ambience of the civic center added colour to the event.

Of course the peak of the event was the different performances that featured at the event opening can only be compared to what obtains at Cannes Festival and the Notting Hill Carnival. The carnival which showcased colour, glamour and panache also gave participants the opportunity to experience superlative cultural diversity in Nigeria. It aptly lived up to the theme for the festival; “Celebrating, National Unity in Diversity,” as over 30 states of the federation featured during the event.

Though an entertainment platform, Ekiti State sure took it a notch higher this time around through the infusion of modern marketing that

provided an advertising platform for sponsors.

It thus became a unique platform to showcase goods and services thereby creating more bonding between the consumers and brand owners.

At the end, it turned out to be a commerce and cultural festival.

In a way, the carnival confirmed the earlier position of Dr. John Kayode Fayemi that Ekiti had put necessary machinery in place to make the state the nation’s entertainment and tourism hub in the country. This was also the position of the Mayor of Tianjin Province, Xiao Song, who stated last year during a courtesy visit to Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi in Ado Ekiti that the Civic Centre which was then under construction would be a long-term legacy project for the Ekiti State Government when completed.

The Mayor who was then represented by his Deputy, Hu Xiaoynang, added that the Civic Centre would upon completion showcase quality and expertise in construction work. The just concluded carnival gave credence to this opinion.

With the success of the carnival, it was obvious that unlike its counterparts, the state government had set out early to prepare for the hosting of the national festival. Since the close of last year’s edition of NAFEST in which it emerged the most- culturally creative and innovative state, beating 29 other states and carting home various prizes and laurels, it has not rested on its oars.

Delivering his keynote address during the official opening of the event, the Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture, and President, World Crafts Council (African Region), Otunba Olusegun Runsewe had noted that the festival is necessary to promote patriotism in the face of separatist agitations in different parts of Nigeria.

Ajayi is a Lagos-based Journalist and Public Affairs Commentator Read full Travel online - www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 25, 2021

23

POLITY

Generational Change: Can Saliu Mustapha Break the Jinx

Chuks Okocha in this report looks at the prospects of having a young man as the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This could also mean putting forward young men for the presidency in 2023

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ne common phenomenon among the leadership of the major political parties in Nigeria is that their national chairmen are usually in their late sixties or in their seventies. Will there be a difference at the coming National Convention of the APC? Will APC make a difference by picking a Chairman in his fifties?

This explains why the aspiration of Mallam Saliu Mustapha to become the next National Chairman of APC should not raise any eye brow. He has paid his dues in the administration of political parties, starting with the All Peoples Party (APP) in 1999 to the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) in 2003.

Mustapha was among those with President Muhammadu Buhari when they formed the Congress for Progressive Change ((CPC) and to the legacy party, the APC. In these sojourn in the political terrain, he held various positions getting to Deputy National Chairman of the APC. The big question is who is Saliu Mustapha? Mallam Saliu Mustapha was born on 25th September 1972 to the humble family of Alhaji Issa Mustapha, a well-respected indigene of Ilorin East Local Government Area, Kwara State.

Mustapha is an extremely competent politician driven by a belief in the need for purposeful and progressive leadership. For him, the basic concept of social justice must be at the core of all vital decision making that will ultimately impact on the lives of the people.

A highly principled man and undeniable integrity, his discipline and intuitive sense of equity, ethics and good governance saw him rising rapidly to the top of politics in addition to significant accomplishments in other sectors. Propelled by an innate sense of duty and responsibility, it was only natural that this exceptional and worthy son of Kwara State would ultimately live a life exemplified by service and dedication to others.

After many years as a student on the political terrain under the outstanding guidance of none other than His Excellency President Mahammadu Buhari, Mallam Mustapha formally embarked on public service when as an idealistic young man, he served as an aide to the Senior Special Adviser to President Obasanjo on Intra Party from 2001-2002.

By 2002 he was already the protem National Publicity Secretary of the Progressive Liberation Party (PLP). In 2003, he became the First National Chairman of Progressive Action Congress (PAC); a remarkable feat in such a short time. In addition, he was a highly respected and valued member of The Buhari Organization (TBO) as well as a member of the ANPP Presidential Campaign in 2003 for the then General Muhammadu Buhari.

In 2005, Mustapha was appointed the Organizing Secretary of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP). He also played an active role in ANPP as an aide to Buhari during his Presidential election campaign in 2007. Mustapha served as a National Ex-Officio of the Congress for Progressive Change from where he rose impressively to the position of Deputy National Chairman of the CPC 2010 As a result of his deep passion and determination to support growth and positive change in Nigeria, Mustapha naturally became a Chieftain of the APC, following the merger of numerous political parties of which his party the CPC was a major player. It is here that he continues to contribute significantly by promoting policies and programmes of the APC both at the state and federal levels.

Notwithstanding his level of exposure, Mustapha’s heart remains firmly with his people and that bond is what continually guides his decision making. His trajectory is at all times intrinsically intertwined with the growth of his community and his personal success is only meaningful where it involves the upliftment of his people.

Saliu Mustapha

With an easy and amiable mien, this effortlessly charismatic politician is a popular and charming individual well-loved wherever he goes.

His reputation for honesty, patience, humility and generosity precedes him. His is a life characterised by discipline and values as well as a firm and unflinching belief in the paramount importance of service to humanity. A man of uncommon empathy, Mallam Mustapha is a philanthropist per excellence, whose humanitarian gestures and antecedents traverse Ilorin, his immediate community, across the entirety of Kwara State where he continues to positively impact lives.

This, he has achieved through community interventions like educational and health programmes, trickling all the way down to the provision of basic amenities, as well as infrastructural development and direct financial assistance where necessary. The informal sector is not left out as countless groups of artisans and petty traders are massively supported by Mustapha to reinforce and bolster their businesses.

He is also widely respected as a youth mentor.

Without fanfare, he has quietly initiated many noteworthy and commendable programmes designed to guide, encourage and harness the full potential of young people whose contributions he recognises as being paramount to the life blood of the nation.

Mallam Mustapha’s intuitive understanding of the significance of education in the economic and social development of our society led to his special interest and focus on the need for a massive and empowering boost to our educational sector. To this end, he has invested a great deal of time, energy and personal resources in supporting this sector, including but not limited to partnering with the state government in this regard.

He commendably seeks to change the narrative by placing special emphasis on the girl child who has historically been at a disadvantage. He is mindful of the fact that funding from the states and the federal government alone cannot adequately provide the requisite quality and standard of education and that the private option is not within reach for a majority of the less privileged. Mallam Mustapha firmly believes that the challenges typically arising from inadequacies in the health, socio- economic and socio-political spheres of our lives can be greatly

curtailed with the provision of adequate funding and the effective monitoring such funding. Indeed, without the requisite reforms in the educational sector, no one can provide or guarantee any appreciable sustainable development in any sector no matter how well intentioned.

He remains resolutely determined to give the educational sector the much needed assistance. This has most recently been reflected in the laudable and progressive interventions of the Saliu Mustapha Foundation. A quick perusal of the wide ranging charitable projects and activities include but are not limited to the following: In pursuance of his pledge, the Foundation has since 2012 organised tutorials and periodically purchased JAMB forms for intending candidates. The Foundation has also made countless monetary donations to petty business traders across the state to grow and support their businesses.

Today, some of them have reciprocated by now equally empowering others. In the same vein, the foundation built bore holes in communities across the state. All these projects were deliberate acts borne of the founder’s belief that community development is indeed a collective responsibility.

In April 2018, Mustapha donated a considerable sum of money towards the construction of a block of classrooms for a reputable and respected Islamic scholar. He also awarded cash scholarships to one hundred and fifty final year students in tertiary institutions across Kwara State and gave charity to widows and elderly women in May 2018.

A longtime champion of women’s rights, he is also a strong proponent of affirmative action, as well as an advocate for supporting rural women through small and medium grants.

In June 2018, Mustapha, a devout Muslim likewise kindly donated a generous amount to Division One of the Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria in his customary show of support for the Islamic community.

Again in August 2018, due to his love of the pursuit of knowledge, Mustapha, a renowned philanthropist gave cash prizes to the deserving participants comprising of students, teachers as well as the schools who emerged winners at the first ever English Language and Mathematics Competition in Kwara State, organized by the Saliu Mustapha Foundation.

Likewise in celebration of the first ever ceremonial Durbar in the Ilorin Emirate, Mustapha donated two pure white thoroughbred horses to support the festival which took place in August 2018. They were presented as a mark of respect to His Royal Father, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Gambari.

He also donated handsomely to the Ilorin Emirate Youth Development Association towards its recently commissioned ICT Center. The Kwara State Association of Persons With disabilities has also equally benefited from his charitable largesse. He has pledged to always encourage and uplift them as best as he can.

Mustapha is an unquestionably fine politician with a strong base at the grassroots to lean on.

A simple and unassuming man, he remains resolutely about bringing succour to his people.

His humanitarian efforts give us a clear insight into the strong and impressive empathy he feels for his people.

Mustapha remains that rare and enigmatic breed of politician that Kwara State needs at this critical moment in its history in order to forge a war against perennial underdevelopment, salvage and secure the future for generations yet unborn.

He is an inspirational figure, whose credentials and record of service to date are untarnished and exemplary. Indeed, he brings a commensurate level of energy and commitment to all his endeavours, notwithstanding any obstacles or complications that may arise.

A fervent believer in the importance of maintaining traditional and religious family values, Mallam Mustapha speaks a variety of Nigerian languages fluently - Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo and Okun.

24

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 25, 2021

POLITY

Dowen College: When Death Lurks in Schools Predictably, after just a few weeks, the hysteria that greeted the alleged torture leading to the eventual death of a student of Dowen College has suddenly, Sylvester Oromoni has fizzled out as if nothing had happened. In its wake, the event that shocked the nation has only left the parents and family of the deceased in limbo without answers and closure.

This is not an isolated case. There are several cases of this nature littered across the country begging for justice and equity only to be frustrated by vested interest by those involved. In most cases, those at the receiving end are usually not so high and mighty in society being oppressed by the nouveau riche.

Imagine a scenario where you eke a living and struggle to send your child to one of these high fee-paying schools to actualize the dreams of your child who may want to be a doctor, pilot, engineer, etc. In doing that, you are literally transferring the welfare of your child to the school within the term period to the school. Sometimes, these children, aged 11 years may just be stepping out of the comforts of their homes for the first time uncertain of what will confront them in the outside world far away from the reach of their parents.

Unfortunately for some, their experiences in their first outings are not so palatable as they end up on the wrong side of bullies lurking in the dark recesses of these high-brow overpriced schools. The Oromoni family in Warri, Delta state will forever live to regret the day they took the decision to allow their 12-year-old son, Sylvester Oromoni Jnr., to attend the Dowen College According to the deceased father, his son reported being sick and had to be brought back from school for treatment.

“His mouth was swollen, he complained about severe pains in his stomach, back, head, all parts of his body.

“He said some senior pupils of the college beat him up in his hostel room for refusing to join a cult and a substance was forced down his throat. But nobody knows exactly what it was. Before his eventual death, his lips were swollen and peeled.

“The scan result showed that his liver was swollen. I arranged to bring him to the teaching hospital at Asaba; I had alerted two doctors and they had prepared the emergency ward for him but he could not make it. He died. Oromoni Snr told the media.

In a swift reaction, the management of the school denied the claim, stating that the boy complained of pain in his legs and hip following an injury he sustained while playing football.

To which the father of the deceased retorted that “What happened to my son has nothing to do with football. He mentioned the names of three senior students that tortured him.”

He insisted that all he wants from the school over the circumstantial death of his son is the truth, arguing that although the school may be credible in education, it has proven to be careless in the handling of the welfare of the children accusing the school of profiteering with its huge tuition fees at the expense of the welfare of the students.

Oromoni accused the school of jockeying with the security of the children even after collecting huge school fees from parents. He insisted that the school management was culpable because “We couldn’t get CCTV footage of what happened to my late son; nobody could say exactly what happened among the school authorities.”

While commiserating with the family of the deceased, the Lagos State Government ordered an investigation into the circumstances leading to the 12-year-old death. It also had to shut down the school indefinitely to ensure a thorough investigation.

But the Oromonis said the closure of the school by the Lagos State government was the first step, adding that the death of their son should bring an end to ugly situations in schools that could cause more lives of innocent children. Officials of the Lagos State Ministry of Education stormed the school in the early hours of Sunday and sealed the premises.

Following the closure of the school, its management was forced to make a public statement and its statement read: “We are all deeply saddened by his passing. He was an energetic, fun-loving and promising child and he will be sorely missed.

We pray that the Almighty God will grant his soul eternal rest and his family the fortitude to bear with this irreplaceable loss. “This unprecedented situation we find ourselves in calls for restraint and understanding. A family has lost their dear son. The school has lost a precious student.

“We are distressed that a child sustained a leg injury and passed on a week later. We are as shocked as the rest of the world to see our lovely boy look so ill and in so much pain from the videos posted.

“It is true that though he went home on the 23rd of November, his family did call on the 29th to inform us that he said he was actually bullied by 5 senior students whose names he mentioned.

“We confirm that we immediately started internal investigations on the 30th but he passed on that same day. Sadly we had barely made any headway before the social media frenzy commenced.

“We choose not to be sidetracked but remain focused on our task to get to the bottom of the allegations made. We are cooperating with all relevant authorities and all the accused students have presented themselves to the authorities.

THEFRONTLINES JOSEPH USHIGIALE jushigiale@yahoo.co.uk, joseph.ushigiale@thisdaylive.com 08023422660 (sms only)

“Justice will be done”, the statement read.

Rather than calming nerves, the public statement by the school further infuriated the public. Some viewed it as lacking in empathy, trivializing and attempting to gloss over the loss of the life of a 12 year old boy left in its care. The statement for instance was silent about how the school was unable to figure out that its student was seriously ill until his parents had to intervene to bring him home for treatment.

There was also the question of how could such horrific details like cultism, bullying, forcing the deceased to swear to an oath by drinking concoction happen right before the noses of the school authorities without noticing or detecting?

Given the deluge of media backlash, it was revealed that three housemasters and five students were arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the circumstances that led to the death of 12-year old, Sylvester Oromoni Jnr. In a follow up statement, the management of Dowen College, Lekki, said it has corroborated with the Lagos Police Command which had arrested all the five alleged bullies and three house masters.

In a statement issued by the Principal, believed to be shielding the suspects from the long arm of the law, it stated that the arrests were not an admission of guilt but a part of the investigation process. According to the statement, “We understand and appreciate your anxiety and support. We plan to do all that we can to ensure that the education and future of our dear children is not mortgaged. Investigations are moving along and we continue to work with all the relevant authorities. So far, all five of the children suspected have been remanded into custody as well as three house parents.

While clarifying that “Please note that this is not an admission of guilt or wrongdoing but it’s part of the process.”, the school was eager to have the school reopened as soon as possible: “The school and members of the Oromoni family have met cordially with the Commissioner of Police to discuss the matter and the way forward. There will be an autopsy in Lagos and the school will have its pathologist present as well. We pray that following the preliminary investigations the Ministry of Education will let us have a timeline for next term.”

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

What Makes the Muhammadu Indimi Brand Stand Out? Raheem Akingbolu Marketing savant, former dot.com executive and bestselling author, Seth Godin’s definition of what a brand is has always fascinated me.

According to Godin “A brand is the set of expectations, memories, stories and relationships that, taken together, account for a consumer’s decision to choose one product or service over another.”

When people talk about brands, they think primarily of the visual representations like logos, colours and all those outward elements put together by brand and marketing experts.

But what of the human elements? How do the people who set up and run companies as well as those who work in those companies affect the way consumers and the general public perceive their companies and the products they produce?

A consideration of this aspect of a brand will help us understand why a tweet by Elon Musk can have a salutary or deleterious effect on the share price of Tesla and why Jeff Bezos or Bill Gate’s indiscretion will have an effect on the companies and brands associated with them.

People matter and the way they conduct themselves affect their brands and products and companies for good or ill.

Alhaji (Dr) Muhammadu Indimi is a Nigerian “businessman and philanthropist”. That is how he is described in a Wikipedia entry for his name. But those two words do not tell the full story of this colossus who could be described with adjectives that run the gamut from enterprising to diligent as well as focused and passionate and generous.

Born 74 years ago in Maiduguri to a father who earned his keep from selling hides and skin, like most children in Northern Nigeria then, he was not fortunate to pursue formal education - because the number of schools were limited at the time, with the result that majority of children were deprived of what is known as Western education. Given this situation, parents who were unable to place their children in the few available Government schools, ended up sending their children to attend Quranic schools. Despite this, Alhaji Indimi speaks six languages: Kanuri, Hausa, Fulfulde, English, French and Arabic. He never went to formal school; he taught himself how to speak and write English, as well as becoming

Indimi

proficient in the French language.

His first foray in business was as an understudy for his father who dealt in hides and skin but he could sense that the universe of a dealer in hides and skin was a severely circumscribed one. So, when he was barely twenty years old, Muhammadu Indimi took a loan from a friend and pivoted leaving the family business to pursue his fortune as importer of clothes from Chad and Cameroon.

It was as a clothes and textile merchant that Muhammadu Indimi began to come into his own as an enterprising and influential businessman gaining national prominence.

Call it a case of preparation meeting opportunity and you will not be too far off the mark. By 1990, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida was Nigeria’s military president and he had taken the very unusual action of appointing a medical doctor to head Nigeria’s oil ministry.

The new minister was Professor Jubril Aminu, a first class brain and the one who would eventually change the landscape of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. As Peju Akande and Toni Kan write in “A Safe Pair of Hands”, their magisterial biography of oil and gas maestro, Austin Avuru “When Professor Aminu was appointed oil minister by Ibrahim Babaginda, he had zero oil industry experience. He was a medical doctor who lectured at the University of Maiduguri.

But he was not just a medical doctor, he was a brilliant one and had graduated top of his class at the University of

Ibadan. It was this medical doctor turned oil minister who midwifed a deliberate policy, as Minister of Petroleum, to introduce indigenous participation in the industry, even though naysayers scoffed that it wouldn’t work. On a trip to a Chevron facility, Prof. Aminu was surprised by the sheer number of Nigerians who were at the top, right there in the field, running their operations, and he figured that, really, Nigerians ought to be given an opportunity to participate.

So, in November, 1990, Professor Aminu awarded oil blocks to 11 Nigerian entrepreneurs on a discretionary basis.”

Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi was among the beneficiaries and whenever the story of successful indigenous participation in the Nigerian oil and gas space is told, the name of Muhammadu Indimi must be writ large as leading the way for others like Seplat, Neconde, Midwestern, Nestoil, Aiteo and many more to follow.

This is because 31 years down the line it is testament to his sheer drive, diligence, tenacity and sense of purpose that of those 11 blocks awarded by Jubril Aminu, Oriental Energy Resources (formerly Inko Petroleum) and Conoil (formerly Consolidated Oil) are the two top success stories from that exercise with Alhaji (Dr.) Muhammadu Indimi sitting atop Oriental Energy as Executive Chairman.

Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi remains without a doubt, the moving spirit behind Oriental Energy Resources and his unblemished personal brand continues to burnish the company he set up as he remains strategic and intentional in the way his company conducts its business especially in its host community.

Deliberate about giving back, Alhaji Indimi in setting up the Muhammadu Indimi Foundation (MIF) seems to have internalized the words of Timothy Pina who has averred that “philanthropy is not about money, it is about feeling the pain of others and caring enough about their needs to help.”

Alhaji Indimi has made money and ranks among the richest Nigerians with Forbes estimating his net worth at $500m as at 2015. But the more money he makes the more deliberate and intentional is he about giving it back to impact lives.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 18, 2021

25

POLITY

Celebrating AbdulRasheed Na’Allah @ 59 Raheem Akingbolu On Tuesday, 21 December, 2021, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof. AbdulRasheed Na’Allah clocked 59. The day turned out to be an opportunity for friends, contemporaries and students of this intelligent purpose-driven scholar to be celebrated.

Today, I have decided to add my voice in celebrating this man, who is fast becoming a symbol of integrity, progressive leadership and administration in Nigeria.

Just as I was ruminating over the need for me to use this avenue to call on the attention of Nigerians to a man, who is set to achieve greatly when speaking of Nigerian Universities... I stumbled on the tribute written in honour of Na’Allah by an international acclaimed Historian, Prof. Toyin Falola.

Falola, in a Tribute titled: “Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah: The Poet, Playwright, and Philosopher” said: “A visionary like him (Na’Allah) is desired at the peak of decision-making and in every meaningful leadership position. Given that he is a poet primarily known for bringing imaginations close to reality, I should be forgiven if I believe that Na’Allah could sum the dreams and imaginations of Nigerians into reality, this time not with pen and paper but with developmental and progressive policies and executions”. With this submission from no other person but a scholar of Prof.

Falola’s standing, one can sum up the personality of the birthday boy as belonging to a rare group of eminent Nigerians, who have given their country a global reckoning.

Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah’s name perhaps didn’t ring a bell beyond Kwara and amongst his old classmates until he became a pioneer Vice Chancellor of the Kwara State University, Molete. Within few years, Prof. Na’allah, had not only built the new KWASU to an enviable level, he had also turned it to the preferred choices of millions of Nigerian students who wanted a University education. At the beginning, many had dismissed this literary icon on the basis that he was coming from a foreign University, where everything worked, to start a new University in an unfamiliar terrain.

Honestly, I didn’t know how he did it but in the history of Nigeria, KWASU remains the first State University that has ever gained traction and became competitive with older Universities within its first five years of establishment!!

For instance, Na’Allah may not be the first person to key into the entrepreneurial study policy of the Federal Government, he did wonder with it in KWASU as many of his students became instant entrepreneurs even before they left the four walls of the University!

Prof. Na’Allah started his lecturing job in KWASU or University of Ilorin,.before he moved to Canada...

Our first meeting was in Ikoyi, Lagos two years ago at an event organised by the Bridge Club of Lagos.

My friend, another illustrious son of Ilorin, Tajudeen Ahmed, head of Business Development at BUA Group, had invited me to be part of an event put together by his association- The Bridge Club of Lagos.

As the guest speaker at the event, Na’Allah was able to warm himself into the hearts of all quickly as he painstakingly x-rayed the prospects and challenges facing the Nation’s Education sector.

He spoke with passion, he made data available and most of all he proffered solution! The evening was so engaging that members of the club, who are majorly top players in Nigeria’s corporate world became emotional as they spoke. Firsrly, it was to commend Na’Allah and secondly, to urge the Federal Government to give him more opportunity, where he would be able to translate his vision for Nigeria’s Education through actionable policies.

Of course as a reporter, I didn’t allow the opportunity to interview the University Don elude me! I walked up to him and sought for a private audience. He accepted the offer and humbly followed me out of the hall to a quiet place where we had a heart to heart interview that lasted 15 minutes. The interview was on how best to rescue the Education sector.

After the event and my interview with him, I was curious to find out if Na’Allah has demonstrated part of what he itemized at either KWASU or UNIABUJA where he is currently a Vice Chancellor.

My findings were positive, Prof. Na’Allah, made the

Na’Allah

best use of his two term stay in KWASU and currently striving hard to rebuild UNIABUJA after over two decades of near abandonment. He has moved the university positively to a sound infrastructural development and an effective administration.

Na’Allah, appears to be righting the wrong in University of Abuja. No wonder, he’s being adjudged one of the best University administrators in Nigeria.

At just 59, I have no doubt that Na’Allah, still has a lot to offer in Nigeria’s public space!

PHOTO NEWS

L-R: Head of Corporate Marketing, Shalina Healthcare Ltd, Folorunsho Alaran, A Special Guest, Adams Adebola aka VJ Adams, host of the challenge, Oluwatimilehin Fadimimu Fortune (the winner), one of the judges of the challenge Iloose ‘Ilowitdflo’ Omohinmin, Head of Business (Pharma) West Africa, Arun Raj, Senior Head of Marketing, Sandeep Sahu, and Consumer Brand Manager, Oluwabusayo John, at the Prize Presentation of HALTOUX LOZENGES’ “My Voice, My Identity,’ an online vocal challenge in Lagos… recently DAN UKANA

The President of Apex Club of Nigeria, Surulere, Mr. Alaka Olalekan (right), distributing Cash and packed rice to the aged and vulnerables during it’s 4tth quarter corporate social responsibility held in Lagos…. recently

L-R: Editor,Inhouse Magazine, India High Commission,Mrs. Ijeoma Nwainokpor; Regional Director, India Chamber of Commerce,Mr. Debmalya Banerjee; President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole; Director General, LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona; and Director, Trade Promotion, LCCI, Taiwo Seriki, during a Memorandum of Understanding between L-R; Chief Commercial Officer, Prosperis Holdings, Mr. Efe Shaire; CEO, Prosperis Holdings, Mr. Kayode FaIndia Chamber of Commerce and Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Lagos recently dahunsi; CEO, Anchoria Asset Management, Mr. Azubike Emodi and CEO, AVA Capital Group, Mr. Kayode ETOP UKUTT Falasinnu during the Prosperis Holdings 2021 end of the year party celebration in Lagos..recently

26

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 25, 2021

MEDIAGAFFES

EXPRESSION

BY

‘Equipment’ Uncountable

T

HE PUNCH of December 14 contained an elementary subject-verb inaccuracy: “Mirrorless (Mirror-less) cameras that manipulates (manipulate) shots and angles.”

From a reader, Mr. Nduka Uzuakpundu, a graduate of the old Daily Times: “There is nothing wrong with feminization of pronouns for countries (last week’s column). Ebere, it is right. You must accept it!” As a gender advocate, I insist on de-feminization of formal language.

In colloquial or folkloric circumstances, it may appeal to me. More constructive contributions to this sexist controversy are welcome. Which is better: Nigeria, in her contribution to the global debate, demanded…or in its contribution…? “…the governor was demanding for additional money which….” (THE NATION ON SUNDAY, December 12) Remove the ‘for’ flaw so that this medium can remain Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper.

As a noun, it accepts ‘for’. Another ardent reader of this column, Mr. Charles Iyoha, is amazed that this misunderstanding still persists.

“As part of the deal (comma, please) she won a N1 million cash prize and contract with one of Nigeria’s leading modelling agency.” (Source: as above) In defence of freedom: agencies.

“The masquerades behind fuel subsidy” (SATURDAY INDEPENDENT, December 11) A voice of your own: masqueraders wear masquerades. Got it?

THE GUARDIAN of December 9 was without conscience as it nurtured copious lexical falsehoods: “Public university teachers on Sunday removed their robs….” Weekend: their robes.

“With these interrupts and incessant

closures….” Verb: interrupt; noun: interruption. “…including criminal activity (activities) such as internet fraud, arms and other trafficking and terrorist activity (activities).”

“But he discovered this one day and beat me up. I cannot forget this (that) day.” Wrong: bossom; right: bosom.

The December 11 edition of BUSINESSDAY circulated five infractions: “HMD Nigeria berths with cost saving equipments” News you can trust: costsaving equipment (non-count). Also take note of the critical hyphenation.

“Alcoholic-induced road (vehicular/ auto) crashes worry FRSC” Business Life: alcohol-induced mishaps….

“Officer’s daughter (daughter’s) kidnap: Army beef (beefs) up security in barracks” “Plateau expresses displeasure over (at/with) comments at Arewa forum” “Naira falls to its weakest in 9-weeks” Market Report: 9 weeks “To me, the strike action is unnecessary….” It is becoming increasingly unnecessary to keep correcting this particular solecism almost every week: strike; industrial action; work stoppage; or service withdrawal, among other terms, depending on context …certainly not ‘strike action’.

The ‘arrest’ fault continues: “Four officials arrested over Bauchi bank robbery” and “Police arrest four over Azare” (THE NATION and THE GUARDIAN of December 9) When will this faux pas stop? ‘Arrest’ takes ‘’for’—always—not ‘over’!

“Youths condemn Sanwo-Olu over (for) hike in tuition fees” (DAILY INDEPENDENT, December 9) For tight writing essence, why not just ‘tuition’?

Still on the preceding medium: “By acquiescing to (in) the mercenary intervention by the Americans….”

“As long as they are operating within the context and spirit of the Companies Allied Matters Act….” (DAILY INDEPENDENT, December 9) A rewrite: As long as they are operating to the letter of the Companies and Allied Matters Act. There is also ‘the letter of the law’, in another related context.

“Take your rights…or trade it” (THE GUARDIAN, December 8) Get it right: rights/them or right/it. “…that for all the security agencies in the state have involved vigilante groups….” (THISDAY, December 8) This way: vigilance groups.

“Mutual Funds allow managers pool various sizes of investment (sic) together and invest them in various asset classes like….” (BUSINESSDAY SPECIAL REPORT, December 8) In modern writing, ‘pool’ is independent. So: pool various sizes of investments and invest…..

“Security: North must get its acts (act) together” (THISDAY, December 8) “And so we wait for it to run and redress the abuse of recklessness of yesteryears.” Once more, fixed expression: yesteryear “Just as the banning of books and newspapers give (gives) rise to an illicit trade in them….”

“Perhaps it may interest you to note that the average take home (a hyphen) pay of a fresh university graduate a month, in any of the Federal ministry (ministries), was slightly above N18,000.” “...the PPMC had neglected the leakage for the past five years despite series (a series) of letters from the state’s LASEP alerting it on the inherent danger of the leakage.” One disaster too many: alerting

Tribute to a Griot Weighed By Adversity

H

ow do you succour a great mind and fine gentleman who has been severely dealt with by the inalterable vicissitudes of life? Every word, thought, wish of commiseration is but a vain blast of incoherent inadequacies...a tokenism without redeeming appendages. Yet, we must do all the best we can to leverage our community, our humanity and our creativity in the overall interest of the well being and continuance of the human race.

The last quarter of the outgoing year was brutal on the psyche of our person of interest: first, he was quarantined in October by the sudden demise of his younger brother, Olukayode Ogayemi (1963-2021) in far away Dallas, USA. Then in the second week of November, the grim one sneaked in to snatch away his beloved wife of many decades, Abosede Adama (1974-2021).

Usually a deep-thinking introvert, and an immensely gifted individual, the occasion of his 67th birthday last Saturday (December 18) might not be, for him, a window of selfadulation, and thunderous sigh of an annual relief, yet we must do all the best we can to remind him that the rest of his life can even be more auspicious and impactful to humanity that those wonderful 67 years gone past.

This is my maturing tribute to the man many of us love to call Ben T: “To him of the dancing voice - I “thro-way” salute....

As a young fellow in 1983, I could not resist the Arts pages of The Guardian... even most of the “offerings” of the new Sunday newspaper seemed way beyond my comprehen-

sion. I would not be daunted. I wanted to learn - strange words, ideas and ideals - just as much as I wanted to share. I was fascinated by several writers - most of whom I had read voraciously long before I encountered them as study books.

A mortified devotee of the stage, the pen and the muse, it was easy for me to form a triumvirate with fellow moon-lighters (Olawale Obadeyi and Muyiwa Kayode) serenading ourselves in what we thought were intellectual duels - our opponents later dotted the pages of The Guardian. We battled our “paper tigers” into spatial submission, often in Muyiwa’s Onipanu residence or “Abe-Igi” in the hallowed precincts of the National Arts Theatre, between 1982 and 1983. These “bloody” disputations were sometimes triggered by what we read in the art pages of The Guardian. To us no other paper existed. And none of us had gained admission to the university!

We therefore resolved to confront the object of our angst directly, and provoke more “fire-wood” to stoke our intellectual inferno! How vain the column of the youthfully ignorant.

With little or no money, we (I am not now sure if we went as three or one or two short) arrived at the sparkling fresh Rutam House to confront our Ogre. We wanted to meet and challenge the person in charge of those pages that had become the source of constant amazement and “belittlement” for us.

Looking back, it was incredible that we went to Rutam House at a moment when we could gain access to its reception area, get the attention of its newsroom - and the chairs before the “Arts Editor”. And we chatted. No, more like we “charted” him and talked him into accepting

our “profound” attempts at writing poetry, plays and what-have-you.

A ritual we later perfected at ThisWeek with the inimitable team of Sonala Olumhense, Tunji Lardner, etc.

Years later, when I became an editor, my perspectives in relational context were horned in the sundry engagements with Mr. Ben Tomoloju, the self-effacing Lord of the Art manor at The Guardian. From that first contact, he took us as mentees (we didn’t know that word then, so we had no inkling what he was doing). He laboured to pierce through our intellectual arrogance, and encouraged us to divert our attention towards writing exploratory materials and arty news reports.

In a few months, we had become “string-reporters” who could look up to some “stipends” based on “snippets” we could deign to write during our “re-education”.

By the time I left the national youth service corps in Akure, my singular ambition was to work in the Guardian. The dream had been nurtured for five years! So, in September of 1988, I confronted my future - and received a hammer blow. Ben T told me - in his proverbial run-around about Providence and Eternal Will - that the two spots on the Arts desk had been taken, but he had managed a good alternative.

Crestfallen, I received a note and instruction to see Mr. Demola Oshinubi (the Editor of The Punch) - and the rest, as the cliché goes, is now history.

But my long-standing suspicion that it was Jahman Anikulapo who took “my spot” never creased. I held on to it for a few years that my friend, Jahman got it because he was a better actor and a closer disciple

EBERE WABARA

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

it to (not on).

“The Nigerian Correctional Service has always run adult literacy classes that was (were) organized by the Welfare Department.” “…plans are afoot to foster (foist) the APC on the nation again in the 2023 general elections, its present very low rating notwithstanding.”

“The commission had gone to these places with many of the petitioners and witnesses in tow (toe)....”

“It is the year when we, the people, will be opportuned.…” Morphological issues: ‘opportune’, which applies here, does not admit ‘d’ or simply, the people will have the opportunity!

“There was hardly a tear-free eye, as muffled sobs and wails rented (rent) the mid-afternoon air….”

“At last, artist body gets new exco” This way: artists’ body. ”The vote count had kept changing figures with each recount narrowing the margin in the state between the two candidates.” I insist on between the candidates.

“When in 1979, a privilegded (privileged) triumvirate was faced with the arduous task of choosing who to take over the reigns (reins) of government from them....”

“Abia governor pointed at the federal roads in the South East which he said are (were) the worst in the country.”

“NBA passes no confidence vote on Buhari” For a better society: confidence vote in (not on) Buhari.

“How we wish they knew that Nigerians, not those on (in) the corridors of power….”

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

AKINTUNDE-JOHNSON fajalive1@gmail.com 08182223348 - (SMS Only)

to Ben T... oh, why did I have to go all the way to Jos of the Plateau to study English...? But I have since forgiven Jahman (not as if he cared or that I dwelled on it). Even then, Ben T didn’t abandon me to my devices - he checked on my sojourn and hovered over my career. He was eager to support any action or initiative we dreamt up that sought to develop the craft of reporting the arts or expanding the scope of culture and entertainment.

As I was writing the concluding part of this tribute, I mistakenly clicked “delete” instead of “save” in my haste to meet the deadline - and was too distraught to recapture the passion of the first draft.

Nevertheless, I believe my thoughts and that of my family - and all whose lives have been impacted by this gloriously “tentative” man of letters and ideas - will always hold Benson Omowafola Tomoloju in great esteem. Though he will reject these pieces of adulation and fantastic expressions of love and admiration - we are nonetheless bound by all that is good and worthy to tell the world how wondrously magnificent this man has been to so many in different fields and “fixations” We therefore salute the man with the dancing voice - whose will over words and power over prose is unimpeachable.

So, arise and shine...through the current misty maze… May God bless Ben T at 67, and beyond!”

3

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

25. 12.2021

PAUL ONUACHU

A Crashed AFCON Dream

NEWS

ON NEWCASTLE’S RADAR PAGE. 29

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 25, 2021

28

GLOBAL SOCCER

Paul Onuachu’s dream of proving himself at the international stage has been ruined by injury

Paul Onuachu

A Crashed AFCON Dream With in form Napoli striker,Victor Osimhen still in doubt for theAfrica Cup of Nations slated for Cameroon and Leicester City’s Kelechi Iheanacho’s dip in form, all eyes are on Nigeria’s leading scorer in Europe, Paul Onuachu to spearhead the Super Eagles attack in the biennial competition next year.It would not be as the Genk striker limped out of the field in his club last game and has been ruled out for four weeks, which has put paid his AFCON dream

G

enk striker, Paul Onuachu is a major doubt for January’s Africa Cup of Nations finals in Cameroon after the 27-year-old suffered a hamstring injury during his club’s 1-1 draw with Royal Antwerp in Jupiler League action on Sunday.

With the injury, Onuachu has been ruled out for up to four weeks, with the Nations Cup set to kick off in 15 days’ time.

“He suffered a muscle tear. I already had the feeling that I had to replace him, but he said he could continue.”

Genk manager Bernd Storck told Belgian newspaper Sporza.

“And then he suffered a hamstring injury during a spurt. He will not be able to play for the next three, four weeks.”

His injury is another blow to Nige-

ria ahead of the tournament, which begins on January 9, as the Super Eagles sweat over the availability of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Watford midfielder Oghenekaro Peter Etebo.

Onuachu, who has scored 12 league goals so far this season, was almost certainly going to be on the provisional squad list of interim Nigeria coach Austin Eguavoen.

His injury could mean that in form Union Berlin striker, Taiwo Awoniyi and Emmanuel Dennis of Watford are named in the preliminary squad.

Onuachu, who was the top African scorer in Europe last season with 33 goals, was expected to play a prominent role for the three-time African champions in Cameroon.

In March 2019, Onuachu scored Nigeria’s fastest-ever international goal against Egypt on his full debut, which helped the Super Eagles to

their first victory over the Pharaohs in 29 years.

He then had to wait two years for his second goal, and this time he scrambled in Nigeria’s winner deep into injury time as they beat Benin 1-0 in Porto Novo in March to celebrate qualification to the 2021 Nations Cup. Three days later, he scored his third international goal in 10 appearances and helped Nigeria coast to a 3-0 win over Lesotho as they wrapped up their qualifying campaign unbeaten, finishing top of Group L. In the absence of Osimhen, Onuachu had a good chance and would have fancied his chances considering the fact he started Nigeria’s opener at the AFCON back in 2019 as well.

Onuachu may be in good scoring form in his club career, but his international performances have left

a lot to be desired. His tally of three in 17 for the Super Eagles tells its own story, and even though it is worth acknowledging that only six of those were starts, the quality of his play has hardly promised better. More than anything else, it is impossible to escape the sense that he simply does not fit.

Part of that is not his fault, of course.

You know what you are getting with a two metre-tall centre-forward, and you understand implicitly the imperatives that this profile of striker places on you stylistically. However, it is one thing to know what to do, and quite another to consider the trade-off worthwhile in the grand scheme. To optimise for such a unique player comes with its own problems and questions.

These are questions that Augustine Eguavoen might now be spared if Onuachu is unable to nurse back to health in good time to make the squad. Being pressed for time to synthesise a winning formula, the 56-year-old could do with having some of the tough decisions taken out of his hands.

Onuachu is a good option to have, but is by no means an absolutely essential asset. While a place at the AFCON and the possibility of a starting spot could have offered him a chance to redeem himself in tournament play after the debacle that was his showing against Burundi over two years ago, his absence would hardly be terminal for Nigeria’s prospects in Cameroon. It might even be helpful to not have the distraction at all.

Nigeria start their Nations Cup Group D campaign against seventime champions Egypt on January 11 in Garoua before facing Sudan four days later and Guinea-Bissau on 19 January.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ DECEMBER 25, 2021

29

GLOBAL SOCCER

Amuneke

Amuneke Denies Turning Down NFF Technical Director ‘s Job Former Super Eagles winger Emmanuel Amuneke has dismissed reports which claimed that he turned down the Nigeria Football Federation Technical Director job in 2020.

The former Barcelona winger was first choice to replace Bitrus Bewarang as technical director of the Nigerian Federation before the appointment of Augustine Eguavoen.

Amuneke admitted that he was approached

by Nigerian Federation boss Amaju Pinnick and accepted the offer though he was under contract with Egyptian club El Makkasa as their technical director.

“I didn’t reject anything, sometimes people talk about you behind but it’s good I set the record straight,” Amuneke said.

“It’s true that I was appointed, Pinnick in question spoke to me and I spoke to him and I told him Nigeria

comes first in as much I am engaged in Egypt with a team but things have to be done professionally.

“I’m engaged in Egypt and my country wants me, I cannot walk away from my country, I have to seek the consent of those that brought me to Egypt and which is eventually what I did.”

Amuneke revealed that talks with the Nigerian Federation collapsed because El Makkasa demanded compensation to free him from his contract.

It is being claimed in some quarters that Amuneke was not considered for the interim Super Eagles job because he didn’t take up the role of Technical Director last year, something which has been disputed by the 50-year-old.

“When Pinnick called me and told me about the Technical Director job I told him no problem and I told him I was on a

contract, I have to discuss with the President of the club to get his consent.

“I discussed with the Club President and they told me that if I want to go there is a certain amount of money which I don’t want to mention that I have to pay.

“I discussed it with Pinnick that look at the plans, the President doesn’t want me to go so if somebody is saying I turned them down because they offered me a job and that’s the reason why they are not giving me Super Eagles job, we are too big to be cooking stories and talking negative things at people’s back,” Amuneke stressed.

A holder of UEFA Pro Coaching License, Amuneke was in the dugout when the Golden Eaglets won the 2015 U17 World Cup, has coached the Flying Eagles in the past and was Tanzania’s coach at the last Africa Cup of Nations.

Aribo Set to Increase Value with AFCON Performance Rangers star, Joe Aribo may be able to add a few figures onto this transfer value if he shines for Nigeria at the upcoming African Cup of Nations tournament.

The midfielder has arguably been Rangers’ most consistent performer this season, contributing six goals and two assists in 19 league matches as he has taken his performances to a new level.

Rangers fans may be caught in two minds about the upcoming African Cup of Nations tournament. If Aribo performs how he has been all season and leads Nigeria to a fourth title, then it could well increase his £5.85m trans-

fer value significantly [Transfermarkt].

This may be good news on the financial side, but do the club really want to lose their star player?

Of course not, yet in the current footballing landscape, Rangers are unfortunately now a selling club.

The Ibrox side signed the Nigerian international and nurtured the player’s potential, making sure he was developed correctly, and this seems to be paying off.

We have seen in the past how having an excellent major competition can suddenly spring a player into the focus of the elite.

Take for example James Rodriguez signing for Real

Madrid after his displays at the 2014 World Cup. Aribo is already on the radar of several Premier League sides at the minute, including Brentford, Watford, and Crystal Palace and with 18 months left on his current contract, it might be financially beneficial if Rangers cash in.

He certainly has the potential to inspire Nigeria to the prestigious African Cup of Nations title, although many Rangers fans might get weary if he starts putting in excellent performances.

Meanwhile, Aribo was being compared to American sporting star Michael Jordan following a stunning touch as Rangers defeated Hearts.

Newcastle Add Odion Ighalo to their Shortlist English Premier League strugglers, Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing Nigeria international, Odion Ighalo.

According to Sky Sports UK, the Magpies have included Ighalo on a list of potential targets ahead of the January transfer window.

Ighalo’s current club, Al Shabab have informally asked the Super Eagles star if he would be interested in joining Newcastle United

should they firm up their interest in him and he gave a positive response.

The 32-year-old has Premier League experience under his belt, playing for two different clubs Watford and Manchester United, scoring 16 goals in sixtyseven appearances.

Ighalo is currently leading the goalscoring chart in the Saudi Professional Football League with nine in 13 matches, an honour he shares

with Al Nassr’s Brazilian star Anderson Souza Conceição.

He will enter the last eighteen months of his contract with Al Shabab in January 2022.

A product of Julius Berger, Ighalo began his career abroad with Lyn Oslo, followed by spells at Udinese, Granada and Cesena, before returning to Granada, from where he moved to Watford in 20142015, first on loan before the deal was made permanent.

L-R: Chairman of IGCNA, Wahab Aminu-Sarumi, Engr. Amina Sarah Dottie, Technical Manager, Lagos Facility Works of Julius Berger, Chairman, Ikoyi Club 1938, Ademola Mumuney and Golf Captain, Meckson Innocent Okoro at the flag-off of the irrigation system on Tuesday

Ikoyi Club, Julius Berger Sign Deal to Re-irrigate Ikoyi Golf Course In order to ensure adequate water supply and keep the golf course in playable condition at all times, the Golf Section of Ikoyi Club 1938 has signed a deal with Julius Berger for comprehensive water irrigation of the Course.

The project which will run within 10 weeks was donated by Ikoyi Golf Community Nigeria Association, (IGCNA).

Speaking at the ground breaking ceremony on Tuesday, Chairman of IGCNA, Wahab Aminu-Sarumi said one of the major objectives of IGCNA was to support the

infrastructural development of the golf section.

While commending Golf Captain, Meckson Innocent Okoro and his Committee for their progressive dispositions, Aminu-Sarumi said the positive partnership between the section and IGCNA helped in contemplating such a big project.

While thanking members of the section for their support for IGCNA over the years, he said the healthy surpluses left behind by former Captain, Ted Iwere and Tony Onwu was well appreciated Club Chairman, Ade-

mola Mumuney, describe as heartwarming the decision to engage a reputable company like Julius Berger to rework the Clubs irrigation system, saying “it will go a long way in keeping the course in good shape all the time. We all know how proficient Julius Berger is and we believe they will do a good job”.

Happy at the initiative, Golf Captain, M I Okoro thanked Aminu-Sarumi led IGCNA executive, saying the section would always appreciate their contributions to the development of the section.

Ajibaye, Olaosebikan Emerge Winners in Abimbola Davis Birthday Golf Tourney Charles Ajibaye and Omolaraeni Olaosebikan over the weekend emerged winners in men and women categories respectively at the Golf tournament which was held to celebrate a philanthropist and passionate golfer, Otunba Abimbola Davis at the Ibadan Golf Club (IGC), Onireke, Ibadan.

Ajibaye, the 8 handicapper from IGC won the men’s category of the tournament with 78 gross and 70 Net on count back to edge out Professor Temitope Alonge that recorded 91 gross and 71 net and Gabriel Eneware that scored 93 gross and 70 to second and first runners-up respectively.

Meanwhile, the CEO of Perfect Clicks Signature, Olaosebikan, playing handicap 35, who scored 109 gross and 74 net claimed the top prize in the women’s category at the expense of Mrs. Tope Alonge that recorded 101 gross and 75 net to place second and Hon. Sade Ajala, the Lady Captain of Tiger Golf Club who got 95 gross and 78 net to finish third.

The birthday tournament that witnessed top dignitaries in the golfing circle in Nigeria was upgraded into a golf open championship as from next

Omolaraeni Olaosebikan who won in women’s category of Abimbola Davis Birthday Golf Tourney jubilating with her star prize

year according to the celebrant to accommodate big players and exciting prizes.

“In appreciation of much love shown to me by the golfing family here at IGC and beyond, I’d like to upgrade this event from a mere birthday tournament to an open golf championship as from next year, where fantastic prizes will be won and more participants would be accommodated.

“One of my firms, Books and Sports will be the major sponsor of the Open Golf Championship as from next year and I will want the committee to liaise with my staff to perfect every plan”, Otunba Davis revealed while

making remarks during the closing ceremony.

Among bigwigs of the golfing circle that witnessed and participated in the tourney was Mrs. Onwuegbu Bose, the Lady Captain of Dolphins who doubles as the Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF) South/West representative, she lauded the good gesture of the Otunba Davis towards the development of golf at IGC and beyond while speaking.

The acting captain of IGC, Tunji Oladosu in his speech described the celebrant as a jolly good fellow and strong backer of the club since he joined with his positive impacts strongly felt in every aspect of Ibadan Golf Club.

Murray Gets Australian Open Wild Card Andy Murray has been handed a wild card for next month’s Australian Open in Melbourne.

It will mark Murray’s first appearance in the tournament since he tearfully admitted that the 2019 event could be his last.

Murray, a five-time runner-

up, had been due to compete at the last edition before his plans were scuppered by a positive coronavirus test.

“I’m really excited to be back playing at the Australian Open,” Murray said.

“I’ve had some great times in Australia playing in front

of the amazing crowds and I can’t wait to step back out on court at Melbourne Park.”

Murray, 34, is currently 134th in the world as he attempts to work his way back up the rankings following his long injury lay-offs due to hip surgery.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 25, 2021

MARKET PLACE with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

L-R, Head Of School, EbonyLife Creative Academy (ELCA),Mr. Theart Korsten; Winner , TECNO Camon 18 Overall Best Short Film, Mr. Yinusa Korede; and Digital Marketing Manager, TECNO, Mrs. Chinma Banksharon - Nwaneri, at the TECNO Camon 18 Short Film Challenge Awards presentation, In Lagos recently

PR Specialist, Joshua Oluranti; Lead Counsellor & Therapist, Emike Oyemade; PR Lead, 9mobile, Chineze Amanfo and CEO, PoweredUp Motivational Services, John-Mabun Adesoga, during 9mobile Train-The-Trainer workshop for teachers of Education District III Lagos recently.

FoodCo Announces Investment in Table Water Market Foremost multi-channel retailer, FoodCo Nigeria has extended its footprint in the Nigerian manufacturing segment with the launch of Sunfresh premium table water.

Its new addition joins a line-up of other edibles produced by the manufacturing arm of the business under the Sunfresh stable, which included bread, cakes, ice-cream, pastry and other confectionery.

Speaking at the launch of the product in Lagos recently, Head of Innovation & Growth at FoodCo, Sheba Alogbo stated that the new investment was in response to consumers’ demands for top quality and aͿordable table water.

She said: “We are excited to o΀cially present the FoodCo brand of premium table water to our customers and the general public.

As a customer focused brand which incidentally also operates a supermarket and quick service restaurant chain across three states, the decision to roll out this product was apt given customers yearnings for safe and aͿordable drinking water.

“As a business, our utmost desire has always been to consistently delight our customers with top quality products at aͿordable prices, in addition to excellent service delivery. We believe that

with the launch of Sunfresh premium table water, we have moved a notch higher in attaining this mandate.”

She rea΀rmed that the new tabled water is being produced under the highest hygiene and safety standards.

“We are proud of the sterling work our research and manufacturing department has put in overtime towards the development of this product and we assure our customers that we will continue to build our capacity in order to identify and bridge the gap in meeting their desire for top quality products at competitive prices”, she added.

CITN Reaffirms Advocacy to EnhanceTax Development The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, CITN has pledged commitment to continuous advocacy and enlightenment towards achieving e΀cient and effective tax system in the country.

Besides, it vowed to always play a lead role in inÁuencing tax policy by way of position papers, communiques, sensitization sessions, press releases and direct engagements.

In his address at the institute’s fellowship conferment ceremony that held in Lagos, recently, President of CITN, Adesina Adedayo stated that already, the institute had always contributed to the country’s Àscal policy

measures which have so far resulted in tax development.

He also emphasized the need for continuous learning on the Àeld for both administrators and professionals, reiterating that taxation is a dynamic Àeld.

He said, “CITN and CITN tax Academy organise various trainings, conferences, workshops, seminars and specialized training programs to enable our members update themselves on new development in the tax system.

Adedayo in his address to the newly inducted fellows, tasked them on good behaviour and ethical practices that will advance the image of the Institute.

Firms Forge Partnerships to Strengthen Fight against Hunger Food & beverage brand, Rite Foods Limited in partnership with Food Meets Naija Initiative has resolved to end hunger in the country.

The partnership saw Rite Foods sponsored ‘Charity With Food’ (CWF 2021), an initiative of Food Meets Naija which saw no fewer than 1000 children fed in Lagos, spiced with a novelty match put together to kick out hunger.

Themed ‘The Race to Curb the Menace

of Malnutrition and Hunger amongst Hard-to-Reach Children in Nigeria’, the CWF 2021 edition aimed to curb the menace of hunger and malnutrition amongst children in Nigeria.

Commenting, Asst. Brand Manager, Beverage and Bakery, Rite Foods Limited,Boluwatife Adedugbe stated that CWF initiative aligned with the company’s commitment to enhance food security.

She averred that the challenge of

hunger is a collective responsibility that required all sectors participation, while she reassured of the company’s readiness to commit to purpose that served similar purpose.

She said, “The need to eliminate hunger from the society is paramount to all and we believe that our contribution is vital to the success in the Àght and victory against hunger, malnutrition and food insecurity in Nigeria.”

She added that the company’s sponsorship of the initiative further demonstrate its commitment to attaining the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda of zero hunger, by giving back to the community, while operating on the highest world standards on the continent.

Other highlights of the event included: empowerment programme, networking and celebrity meet and greet, amongst others.

Golden Penny Fetes Nigerians with Hero Lager Support Initiative ‘12 Days of Christmas’ Campaign with N50 Million Grants In celebrating yuletide, Golden Penny Foods has thrilled Nigerians with its ‘12 Days of Christmas Campaign’ tagged, “The Golden Penny Christmas”.

According to the organisation, the campaign aimed to strengthen the bond between it and customers by thrilling them with fun, excitement, opportunities, and vitality.

It explained further in a statement that the campaign sought to demonstrate the importance of love and giving, by bringing families together for a beautiful season and encouraging togetherness.

Consumers were able to connect with the campaign by participating in diͿerent tasks, concentrating on one brand per day. Some of the tasks were: puzzle-solving, sing-along challenges, CSR challenges, and Pasta forklift challenges,

amongst others.

The organisation explained that it lowered the criteria for campaign entry to make sure that as many consumers participated and got rewarded in the campaign.

At the end of the exercise, 10 winners were rewarded with N50,000 worth of Christmas shopping spree, shopping vouchers (for Golden Penny items) and bumper packs.

“The Golden Penny Christmas campaign is a nationwide exercise including competitions on Radio stations across the country and a series of activities on social media designed to engage and reward consumers, each day for 12 days respectively, starting from the 13th and ended 24th of December 2021”, the company said in a statement.

Beverage brand, Hero Lager has supported graduates of Igbo apprenticeship scheme, ‘Igba Boi’ with N50 Million grants.

The grant support was announced at the grand Ànale of the initiative that sought to promote Igbo apprenticeship culture. In addition to the grant support, the graduands were also presented with certiÀcate to enhance their practice.

According to the organisation, the initiative was launched to reinforce its campaign themed- ‘Aha-gi-efula’ (May Your Name Never Be Forgotten), built upon the insight of the Igbo legacy that made their names renowned.

Igba Boi was activated in six major markets across the South East and Lagos including Ogbaru Main Market, Onitsha; Nkwo Nnewi Market, Awka; Coal Camp Market, Enugu, Alaba International Market, Owerri; Ariaria

International Market, Aba; and Alaba International Market, Lagos.

The campaign reached no fewer than 12 million people, with about 4680 apprentices applied for the programme and 300 shortlisted.

The shortlisted apprentices attracted over 1.4 million votes of conÀdence from consumers who were asked to vote in support of their ambition.

Commenting, Marketing Director of International Breweries Plc, Tolulope Adedeji commended the apprentices and their trade masters for upholding the legacy of the programme, which according to her has created employment for Igbo youths.

Legendary actor and Hero brand Ambassador, Nkem Owoh who graced the occasion also appealed to the government to support the scheme as way of empowering young men and women.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 25, 2021

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MILESTONE

Celebrating a True Friend, Emma Bishop Okonkwo Annie Okonkwo

H

ere comes the long awaited day ‘December 25’, to celebrate my dearest friend Emma Bishop Okonkwo, the brain behind the popular Ekulo Group of Companies.

Birthdays are special but yours is very unique and exceptional because you were born same day with our dear lord Jesus Christ.

Every year on December 25th, over 2 billion people around the world celebrate Christmas Day. Traditionally, Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Nonreligious people and those of different faiths celebrate the day as a cultural event.

Apart from the joy of waiting patiently to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ which is the most celebrated occasion in the world, it’s also a great feelings for me, to always be in the know that a very special and unique creature is being celebrated same day.

However, one of the most popular Christmas customs is gift-giving. This custom has its roots in the Magi who brought gifts to Jesus shortly after his birth. This spirit has been imbibed by my dear friend Emma Bishop Okonkwo who has over the years given back to the society.

Today in Anambra State, Emma Bishop Okonkwo is one of the most renown philanthropist, he has given lots of scholarships to students to study courses of their choices in various institutions of learning.

Emma Bishop Okonkwo who was born on December 25 six decades ago in a town called Ichi in Anambra State, very close to the popular commercial city Nnewi; his father once wanted him to take over his business from him but as a very determined person, he rather chose to pursue his career, dreams and aspirations in Lagos.

Bishop my brother, I have known you almost all my life, for the past 50 years. You are a very reliable brother and someone I trust, I thank God for your life and I thank God that God has been merciful and we are now seing our children and we comfortably boast that things are going well for us.

The most important thing in relationship is trust and you have never failed me in the past 50 years.

You also have always been there to give any support in life, you are someone that I can always call upon at any time and you will always be there to answer.

During my political journey, even though you are not one that loves the game of politics, you always supported me.

Growing up with you remains an experi-

Annie A i Ok Okonkwo k ence that will never be forgotten.

You are one of the few gentlemen in this country, hardworking and very industrious, faces business and very successful without making noise.

Chief Okonkwo is the founder of Emma Bishop Okonkwo EBO Foundation which has gained him recognition as a philanthropist of repute who has touched the lives of many through his acts of charity. involving scholarship Emma Bishop Okonkwo has done programmes which have immensely benefitted several underprivileged Nigerians.

His Philanthropic work has been rewarded several times. He was

recognised as the Ikenga Ichi, a title conferred on him by Ichi town in Anambra State for his many contributions to the development of the community which include the building of a new modern palace for the king among others.

Emma Bishop Okonkwo is well loved and recognised by the people of Anambra State and beyond.

In 2011, Emma Bishop Okonkwo was conferred with the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) by former President, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR and was also honoured in 2013 by the Sun Newspapers as the 2012 Business Man of the Year following his immense contribution in devel-

opment of the society.

He has also been conferred with prestigious traditional titles like Okpuluisi Zuluora Onu, Eze Enyimba n’ Ozubulu, Odenigbo n’ Amichi and Ikenga Ichi among others.

Emma Bishop Okonkwo who is a proud member of the Knights of Saint Christopher and is happily married to Ngozi and blessed with wonderful children.

Wishing you a very happy birthday, my dear brother. May God make His heavenly face to continue to shine on you on this special day of yours and all the days of your life, amen.

Senator Annie Okonkwo writes from Lagos.

Water Resources Ministry Honours 27 Staff at Maiden Awards Ceremony

T

he Federal Ministry of Water Resources has honoured 27 exemplary serving and retired staff at its inaugural Rewards and Recognition System (R&RS) Awards Ceremony.

The ceremony, which was held last Monday at the prestigious Fraser Suites in Abuja, saw awards handed out in seven categories, which included Honourable Minister Unique Act Award, Permanent Secretary Exemplary Conduct Award, Heroic Award and Long Service Merit Award. Others are Recognition of Long-Service and Retired Civil Servants, Ethics and Professionalism Award and Mentorship Award.

Speaking at the ceremony, Alhaji Suleiman Adamu, Minister of Water Resources, explained that the R&RS Programme is a deliberate effort at motivating and incentivizing civil servants to put in their best. He noted that employees have other intrinsic needs other than those that are monetary.

“The intrinsic need for recognition, encouragement and reward of outstanding performance forms the other pillar on which the rewards policy stands. We need to appreciate those that have helped us. A motivated workforce is an efficient workforce,” said the minister.

Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, explained that the awardees were selected by a 146-member panel that included directorate level staff of Departments of Human Resources Management, Reform, Coordination, and Improvement, representatives of the Technical Departments, Anti-Corruption Unit, SERVICOM, Joint Union Negotiation Council of the Ministry and corporate sponsors.

She noted that the diversity in the selection process was to ensure its credibility, adding that awardees were chosen based on guidelines and weighting set-out in the R&RS Policy of the Federal Civil Service, which was approved by

the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and validated by representatives of Ministries, Extra-Ministerial Departments and Agencies of the Federal Civil Service.

“The scheme strikes a balance between acknowledgement for work well done, maximising competitiveness and improving productivity.

The Rewards and Recognition Programme is an initiative that is uncommon in its desire to identify, honour, and celebrate Federal Public Servants, the very pillars of our nation,” she said.

Also speaking at the occasion, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha, noted that the civil service had, for long, neglected to incentivize and reward its employees.

Mustapha, who was represented by Dr. Habiba Lawal, Permanent Secretary, Ecological Fund Office, noted that the practice around the world is that when workers are recognised, not

always financially, they are motivated to help in the attainment of institutional goals. He advised those who were not selected this year to strive to be among the next set of awardees.

Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Folasade Yemi-Esan, represented by Mrs. Ngozi Onwudiwe, Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office, told the gathering that staff welfare is a key component of the Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (2021-2025).

She explained that the R&RS will play a critical role in the implementation of the Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (2021-2025), which has the goal of making the Federal Civil Service into a world-class citizen-centred institution.

Responding on behalf of the awardees, Mrs. Janet Payida Damaryam commended the ministry for pioneering the R&RS in the Federal Civil Service, saying: “A reward and recognition system will surely encourage improved performance by civil servants.

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SATURDAY DECEMBER 25, 2021 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 25, 2021

COVER

Leading People of 2021…

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 25, 2021

COVER/POLITICS Theyear2021hasbeenpoliticallytumultuousjustasmanywillthinkitdisappointingdependingonwhich side one was most touched. However, there are personalities that defined the perception and effect which may either be positive or negative, in no particular order, writes Ahamefula Ogbu Muhammadu Buhari

B

eing the captain of the Nigerian ship, every buck stops on his table. Unending killings and economic pressure on Nigerians continued throughout the year, which placed him on the front burner. Buhari’s inability to tackle the security and economic challenges left Nigeria in tatters. Cries about his endless lopsided appointments, gifting the nearby Niger Republic a standard gauge rail line with a loan from China, refusal to sign the Electoral Reform Bill and rampaging terrorists kept Buhari persistently in the news in 2021.

Hope Uzodinma He has been in the news mostly for the wrong reasons since being foisted on Imo State by an incongruous Supreme Court decision. Scores are killed daily in the state by “unknown gunmen.” 2021 saw him battling his immediate past governor, Rochas Okorocha from who he has seized various prized property including a university. He is reputed to be the first governor of the South East to in a short while, after assumption of office to have pulled President Buhari to the restive region. He has however started paying salaries and pensions to the extent he is even pledging to pay 13th month salary bonus in an effort to warm his way into the heart of the people.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu Adjudged the most prepared and hungry for the position of president in 2023, he had deep pockets, connection and reach. Tinubu has been consulting to the point of dividing the party. Being a major enforcer of the amalgamation of parties in the alliance that took power from Goodluck Jonathan, Tinubu

Chukwuma Soludo The former Central Bank governor, who after some failed attempts at being the governor of his state, finally had mother luck on his side in 2021 where Governor Willie Obiano chose and rammed through his election under a very violent set up that saw killings across the state.

Yemi Osinbajo

Mai Bala Buni He is the Governor of Yobe State who has doubled as the interim Chairman of the party even after the Supreme Court indirectly hinted that such was out of constitutional order. He courted some governors to abandon their party to join his and has promised that he was going to ensure that they retain power in spite of the poor performance of the party in all fronts and the fact that the coalition of parties has started pursuing disparate interests.

Nnamdi Kanu Babajide Sanwo-Olu He has constantly been in the news in his management of COVID-19 and infrastructure development in the state. This man that was favoured against Akinwunmi Ambode has been performing.

The stacked political cards in his favour on taking over from his boss in 2023 has pitched him against his political benefactor whose eye and desire has never left the seat of power.

Though, he is yet to openly admit challenging BAT to the contest, his body language and surreptitious setting up of structures, added to the possibility of President Buhari favouring Osinbajo. This made him prominent in political affairs of 2021.

The leader of the Indigenous people of Biafra noted for his vitriol at the president, who he had made unprintable claims against. He became more controversial with the formation of the Eastern Security Network. The effort morphed and spiraled out of control, leading to crack operations and retaliations by security forces. They were alleged to be responsible for killing security personnel and stealing their arms and ammunition. Kanu, hauled back to Nigeria from Kenya, this year, is in jail, facing treason charges. The involvement of prominent people and groups from the South East region pressing for his release has placed his case politically and otherwise on the front burner.

Bisi Akande The release of his autobiography, “My Participation” has been controversial to the extent that he was accused of releasing a “cocktail of lies” to brighten the chances of Bola Ahmed Tinubu clinching the Presidency in 2023.

Iyorchia Ayu

Ahmed Lawan He has remained a man of his words as Senate President. He had promised to cooperate and work with the President which his leadership of the Senate has religiously kept to. Under his watch, all requests by President Buhari received dutiful approval leading to allegations that he has weakened that arm of government and thereby subsumed it in the presidency. Loans approved under his watch have mortgaged the future of unborn Nigerians while rationalising such docility as ensuring harmony and stability of the country.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu Adjudged the most prepared and hungry for the position of president in 2023, he had deep pockets, connection and reach. Tinubu has been consulting to the point of dividing the party. Being a major enforcer of the amalgamation of parties in the alliance that took power from Goodluck Jonathan, Tinubu is well positioned to make a mark though he is coming across as desperate for power and “not clean” in how he came about his wealth.

He has been around in the nation’s political space but seemed to have gone on recess till the opposition Peoples Democratic Party threw him up as their National Chairman, a job he has set about lending his vast experience. He has been jabbing the ruling APC and speaking of plans to take over power in 2023.

Sunday Adeyemo Also called Sunday Igboho, he came to limelight when he moved to sack criminal herders from his town, Igboho. Thereafter he transited to advocating for the independence of the Oduduwa nation from Nigeria which pitched him against agencies of the state. They soon attacked his house at night, killing some people and destroying his property. When he felt the heat was much on him, he took a “NADECO” route and found his way to Benin Republic where he attempted with his wife to flee to Germany but was intercepted. He is still in detention there while efforts are on to extradite his to Nigeria.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 25, 2021

COVER/BUSINESS AND ECONOMY Nigeria struggled with its economy in 2021, with dwindling revenue and forex crisis. Notwithstanding, some businessmen were impactful, nudging the economy Aliko Dangote

×ÓÖÖÓÙØ ØÞÜÏÚÜÏØÏßÜÝÒÓÚ ÜÙÑÜË××Ϙ launched in 2015 aims to empower 10,000 entrepreneurs over 10 year.

A

All eyes remained focused on Aliko ËØÑÙÞϘ ÞÒÏ ÍÒËÓÜ×ËØ ËØÎ ÙÐ ËØÑÙÞÏ ÜÙßÚ˜ ËÝ ÒÏ prepares to deliver ÒÓÝ ×ßÖÞÓ̋ÌÓÖÖÓÙØ ÙÖlar refinery in Lagos.

He made appreciable progress in this regard in 2021, with prominent Nigerians visiting the complex. The fertilizer aspect of the project is already up and ÜßØØÓØÑ˛ Ð ÍÙßÜÝϘ ÒÏ ËÖÝÙ ÍÙØÞÓØßÏÎ his dominance of the cement, sugar and flour market, with massive expansion.

Abdul-Samad Rabiu

Oba Otudeko ÌË ÞßÎÏÕÙ˜ ÐÙßØÎÏÜ ËØÎ ÍÒËÓÜ×ËØ ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ÙØÏãáÏÖÖ ÜÙßÚ˜ ÒËÎ ÓÞ ÜÏËÖÖã rough in 2021. His non-performing ÖÙËØÝ áÓÞÒ ÓÜÝÞ ËØÕ áÏÓÑÒÏÎ ÒÓ× down. He also lost out in the control ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ÌËØÕ˛ ÞßÎÏÕÙ áËÝ ÕÓÍÕÏÎ ÙßÞ ËÝ ÞÒÏ ÍÒËÓÜ×ËØ ÙÐ ÙÖÎÓØÑݲ ÞÜÙßÌÖÏÎ ÞßÎÏÕÙ ÒËÎ ÞÙ ÝÏÖÖ ÒÓÝ ÙØÏãáÏÖÖ ÖÙßÜ ÓÖÖ ÞÙ ÞËÍÕÖÏ ÒÓÝ ÎÏÌÞ crisis.

Cosmas Maduka ÙÝ×ËÝ ËÎßÕ˘ ÜÏÝÓÎÏØÞ ËØÎ ÒËÓÜ×ËØ ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ÙÝÍÒËÜÓÝ ÜÙßÚ˜ remains a key figure in Auto business.

He now has an auto assembly plant in ËÑÙݲ ÙÝÍÒËÜÓÝ ÙÞÙÜÝ ÓÝ ÞÒÏ ÝÙÖÏ representative of premium foreign motor vehicles in Nigeria, including ÙÖÖÝ̋ ÙãÍϘ ËÑßËÜ ËØÎ ÙàÏܘ ÙÜÎ ÙÞÙÜ Ù×ÚËØ㘠ÏØËßÖÞ˜ ˜ among others.

Aliko Dangote

Mike Adenuga ÓÍÒËÏÖ ÎÏØßÑË˪Ý ÖÙ ÌÜËØÎ ÍÙØtinues to tickle with innovations and expansion, thus retaining its position ËÝ ÓÑÏÜÓË˪Ý ÝÏÍÙØÎ̋ÖËÜÑÏÝÞ ÞÏÖÏÍÙ×Ý operator.

Femi Otedola Ï×Ó ÞÏÎÙÖ˘ ÌÓÖÖÓÙØËÓÜÏ ÌßÝÓØÏÝÝman and philanthropist shook the ØËÞÓÙØ˪Ý ʨØËØÍÓËÖ ÖËØÎÝÍËÚÏ áÓÞÒ ÒÓÝ acquisition of controlling shares in ÙÖÎÓØÑݘ ÞÒÏ ÚËÜÏØÞ ÍÙ×ÚËØã ÙÐ ÓÜÝÞ ËØÕ˛ Ï ÌÏÍË×Ï ÞÒÏ ÝÓØÑÖÏ largest shareholder with his 7.25 per cent acquisition, at over N48 billion.

Musibau Bashir ÖÒËÔÓ ßÝÓÌËß ËÝÒÓÜ ÓÝ ÞÒÏ ÒËÓÜ×Ëؘ ËÐËÌ Ù××ßØÓÍËÞÓÙØݲ ÓʵÖÏ was known about him until his firm emerged a winner of the keenly ÍÙØÞÏÝÞÏÎ ͱ˛ͳ ä ÝÚÏÍÞÜß× ËßÍÞÓÙØ ÐÙÜ ͳ ÎÏÚÖÙã×ÏØÞ in the country. He would have to pay ͜Ͱ͵ͱ˛ʹ ×ÓÖÖÓÙØ˛

Musibau Bashir

Femi Otedola

Abdul-Samad Rabiu ÌÎßÖ̋ Ë×ËÎ ËÌÓß˪Ý àÏØÞßÜÏ ÓØÞÙ refining of petroleum products is ÑÓàÓØÑ ÒÓ× ÝÚÏÍÓËÖ ËʵÏØÞÓÙØ˛ ÙØstruction is on at a massive complex ÓØ ÕáË ÌÙ× ÞËÞÏ˛ ÒÏ ÜÙßÚ boss is clearly out to compete with ËØÑÙÞÏ ÓØ ÞÒÓÝ ʨÏÖβ ÙÜ ×ÙÝÞ ÙÐ ͰͮͰͯ˜ ÍÙ×ÚÏÞÏÎ ËÑÑÜÏÝÝÓàÏÖã áÓÞÒ ËØÑÙÞÏ ÓØ ÞÒÏ ÝßÚÚÖã ÙÐ ßÑËܘ Ïment and Flour, with massive expansion in his facilities.

Tony Elumelu ÙØã Öß×ÏÖß˪Ý ÏÓÜÝ ÙÖÎÓØÑÝ ÜÏ×ËÓØÏÎ Ë ×ËÔÙÜ ÐÙÜÍÏ ÓØ ÓÑÏÜÓË˪Ý economy, powerfully playing in banking, oil and gas and hotel. Heirs ÙÖÎÓØÑÝ ÏâÚËØÎÏÎ ÓÞÝ ÓÖ ËØÎ ËÝ portfolio, with the acquisition of Ͳͳϱ ÙÐ ͯ͵ ÐÜÙ× ÒÏÖÖ ÓÑÏÜÓ˲ The company acquired the asset ÞÒÜÙßÑÒ ÓÖ ËØÎ ËÝ Ó×ited (a related company of Heirs Holdings and Transcorp).

Elumelu is still empowering new generation of African entrepreneurs with the Tony Öß×ÏÖß ÙßØÎËÞÓÙØ ̙ ̚˛ Ï ÜÏ×ËÓØÝ ÐÜÓÍË˪Ý ÖÏËÎÓØÑ ÚÒÓÖËØÞÒÜÙÚ㘠áÓÞÒ ÞÒÓÝ ÒßÑÏ ÚÜÙÔÏÍÞ˛ ˜ ͯͮ͜​ͮ

Oba Otudeko

Tony Elumelu

Benedict Peters, Aiteo ÏØÏÎÓÍÞ ÏÞÏÜݘ ÐÙßØÎÏÜ ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ÓÞÏÙ ÜÙßÚ ËØÎ ÓÑÏÜÓË˪Ý ÖËÜÑÏÝÞ indigenous oil producing firm was in the news for all the wrong reasons in ͰͮͰͯ˛ ØÏ ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ÐÓÜ×˪Ý ÙÓÖ áÏÖÖÝ ÓØ Ï×ÌϘ ËãÏÖÝË ÞËÞÏ ÏâÚÏÜÓÏØÍÏÎ a blowout, leading to the biggest oil spill in the history of Nigeria.

For weeks, the well spilled oil, destroying the environment. Aiteo ÌËÞÞÖÏÎ ÞÙ ÝÒßÞ ÞÒÏ áÏÖÖ˛ ÏÞÏÜÝ also had to battle the bad press that came with the tragedy.

Benedict Peters

Allen Onyema ÖÖÏØ ØãÏ×Ë˪Ý ÓÜ ÏËÍÏ ÜÏ×ËÓØÝ the dominant force in Nigerian aviation in 2021. His fleet remains the biggest and fastest growing.

As at the last count, there were 40 ËÓÜÍÜËÐÞ ÓØ ÒÓÝ ÐÖÏÏÞ˛ ØãÏ×Ë ÓÝ ËÖÝÙ the biggest employer of labour in the Nigerian aviation industry.

The Airline is fast expanding its ÓØÞÏÜØËÞÓÙØËÖ ÜÙßÞÏݲ ÓÜ ÏËÍÏ ÒËÝ returned to South Africa. Also, it ØÙá ÒËÝ ÝÏàÏØ ÝÖÙÞÝ ÞÙ ßÌËÓ˛ ßÜÓØ ÞÒÏ ãÏËܘ ØãÏ×Ë ÜÏÝÍßÏÎ ÝÞÜËØÎÏÎ Nigerians abroad by providing free flights.

Mike Adenuga

Allen Onyema

Cosmas Maduka

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 25, 2021

44

COVER/SHOWBIZ The Showbiz sector in 2021 witnessed quite interesting and dramatic episodes that left not a few observers excited from wherever they are. From movies to music and more, the personalities and entertainers, having survived the preceding year ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic, made entertainment gist and news that impacted the industry in Nigerian for reasons being either their achievements or infringements, writes Ferdinand Ekechukwu Davido

D

avid Adeleke, popularly known as Davido may have had a mixed year after losing two members of his gang, he remains one of the most talked about personalities in 2021. The music star made several good headlines, except dumping Chioma Rowland, the mother of his son. His extraordinary benevolent gesture also got him trending. In less than 24 hours, after he jokingly asked his close friends, he raised over N100 million with fans and colleagues making donations to the tune of N200 million within 72hrs to his 29th birthday celebration in November. He then added his personal N50 million naira and disbursed the total sum to foundations and orphanages across the country.

The singer also made his international movie debut in the year. He had a cameo in the ‘Coming 2 America’ movie. Music streaming platforms, like Spotify named him the third most streamed artist in Nigeria.

Burna Boy

Davido

Savage

Mo Abudu

Bolanle Austen-Peters

Cubana

PSquare

WhiteMoney

Wizkid

Wizkid

Wizkid, born Ayodeji Balogun practically made the news every month in 2021 and recorded a good number of feats globally. But his Grammy award in the category for Best Music Video with Beyoncé at the 63rd Grammys for his collaboration “Brown Skin Girl” tops. Wizkid’s 2022 nomination in the ‘Best Global Music Album’ category at the upcoming 64th Grammys is also one of the singer’s notable feats of the year.

His 3-nights-record-sold-out ‘Made In Lagos’ concert held at the 02 Arena in London remains another talking point. His hit single ‘Essence’, featuring Tems, and with a remix featuring Justin Bieber, was undeniably one of the biggest songs in the world.

Burna Boy

Self-acclaimed African giant, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy was one of the biggest news of the year. His victory in the Best Global Music Album at the 2021 Grammy Awards with his Twice As Tall album marked his first career Grammy. Aside from winning one of the most coveted music awards in the world, the music star blew the minds of even his critics with a headline show at the 02 Arena in London.

Like Wizkid, Burna Boy is also in the run for the next Grammys Best Global Music Performance category of the awards.

Mo Abudu

Media mogul and CEO EbonyLife Studios, Mosunmola Abudu as one of the top entertainment personalities in 2021, made headline in November during Mo’s visit to Harvard to teach case study on EbonyLife. By that feat, her media Empire becomes first female African-owned MBA case study at Harvard University. Also in the wake of multiple deals she signed this year comes the recently announced BBC and EbonyLife partnership. Mo Abudu was ranked among the “25 Most Powerful Women in Global Television”, by the Hollywood Reporter. She was also named among Forbes Most Powerful Women 2021. She was invited this year to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The year also saw her deliver, and commenced shooting of some existing multititle film and TV deal with Netflix.

was already a known face in the entertainment and hospitality business. The businessman is the Chief Executive Officer of Cubana Group.

Popular among his businesses are the night club and luxurious hotels. While Nigerians were still trying to figure out who the businessman was, he threw what has been described as ‘the event of the year.’ Obi Cubana first announced plans to bury his late mother on social media in September. It was a show of wealth and the extravagant lifestyle of some of the wealthy folks in the country. The event was so huge that several Nigerian music stars performed for the villagers in his small community.

Bolanle Austen-Peters

Tiwa Savage

2021 was relatively huge for the business woman. But a major for her was the right she secured to produce a biopic on the legendary Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti from the estate of the late matriarch. The film is intended to hit the big screen sometime in 2022/23.

Austen-Peters reckoning also notched with her new film ‘Collision Course’ being the closing film at AFRIFF 2021 on November 12. The end-of-festival screening of the feature film had enthusiastically been acknowledged by the industry amazon. With ‘Collision Course’ affirms her relentless upward trajectory in the industry.

Obi Cubana

Obinna Iyeigbu popularly known as Obi Cubana

Tiwa Savage appears the most talked about person of 2021, most likely more than Obi Cubana when ‘Somebody’s son’ found her.

Mama Jamil was involved in a sex tape which turned many into voyeurs. It trended for a number of days. Safe for her sex tape scandal and her almost physical brawl with rival Seyi Shay, Tiwa had a very good 2021 career wise.

Her EP, ‘Water and Garri’, released in August, was a major talking point following her classy collaboration with American music star Brandy on the single ‘Somebody’s Son’.

WhiteMoney

Reality star, whiteMoney, real name Hazel Oyeze Onou is one celebrity that sure got the

Tems

Tems got everyone talking all year. The music star was already having an amazing career which many describe asan overnightsensation.

Tems(Temilade Openiyi) hasprobably been the fastest-risingact out ofthe Nigerianmusic scene recently with her appearance on Drake’s ‘Certified Lover Boy’album being a culmination ofher excellentshowing onWizkid’s‘Essence’in 2021. Featuring on the song hasalso earned her aGrammy nomination for‘BestGlobalMusic Performance’. The alternative R&B singer also releasedherownEP,‘IfOrangeWasaPlace’.Her recentSoulTrainawardwithhermentor,Wizkidisstill verymuchonthelipsofmany.

PSquare

Tems

eyes of everyone during the Big Brother Naija ‘Shine Ya Eye’ Season 6. From the moment he stepped on stage during the premiere of the show, he was on the lips of everyone who watched. Even those who weren’t into the reality TV show knew who Whitemoney was. It didn’t come as a surprise when on the night of the finale, the multi-talented BBNaija 2021 star was named winner of the season. His emergence from the show has paved way for him and earned multiple deals with a handful of brands as ambassador.

The return of Psquare was major 2021 news when on Wednesday, November 17, a heartwarming video of the twin brothers in the company of friends and family trended, showing the erstwhile Nigerian superstar group, embrace each other in a peace deal. This was five years after the popular singing duo, Peter and Paul Okoye, buried their differences and announced a comeback to the amazement of their fans. Hints on settling their rift and put behind their past has been major talking points on the news media. It was one major news item that got people relieved as they both hugged each other, including their elder brother, Jude Okoye.

45

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ 25, 2021

COVER/SPORTS

Ahmed-Musa Efe Brume ARUNA-Quadri-NGR

Rohr Kamaru Usman2

Joshua

Lionel messi

Osimhen Pinnick

Oborududu

Eguaveon

Augustine Eguavoen

W

ith just few weeks to the Africa Cup of Nations, former Super Eagles defender Augustine Eguavoen was announced as interim coach of the senior national team of Nigeria after the sacking of erstwhile manager, Gernot Rohr. This is Eguavoen’s third stint in charge of the Super Eagles, after managing the team from 2005-2007 prior to another stint as caretaker coach in 2010. As a player, the 56-year-old represented the Super Eagles at the 1994 and 1998 World Cups.

Gernot Rohr After several calls for the sack of Super Eagles Franco-German Manager, Gernot Rohr, the Nigeria Football Federation finally bowed to pressure to do away with the service of the 68-year old.

Rohr departs as Nigeria’s longestserving manager after taking charge in August 2016 before leading them to the 2018 World Cup and a third-place finish at the 2019 Nations Cup. Amaju Pinnick After taking the back seat for many years, Nigeria’s Amaju Pinnick secured a seat in the FIFA Council moments after he emerged as the fifth Vice President of the Confederation of African Football at the 43rd Ordinary General As-

sembly in Rabat, Morocco. Pinnick also enjoyed a smooth ride in the management of Nigerian football in 2021. Super Eagles ended the year fifth best in Africa based on FIFA ranking.

Ahmed Musa Super Eagles Captain, Ahmed Musa became Nigeria’s most-capped player after getting his 101st international cap in the team’s 2-0 victory over Central African Republic.

FIFA shared Musa’s picture with the caption, “Ahmed Musa, most capped Nigerian player, 101 appearances”.

FIFA’s post puts to an end the controversy over the number of caps won by Musa.

off in the opening match against newcomers Venezia. Since then, the Super Eagles striker has become a nightmare to opposing defenders, scoring seven goals in eight matches for Napoli in September alone.

The Super Eagle is one of the Partenopei’s trio of Africans so far overachieving and already making Neapolitans dare to dream.

Blessing Ogborodudu ÖÏÝÝÓØÑ ÌÙÜßÎßÎß áÙØ Öã×ÚÓÍ Games’ silver medal in the women’s freestyle 68kg, at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, the first by a Nigerian wrestler in history. The 32-year-old won the medal in her third appearance at the Olympics since 2012 in London. Oborududu announced herself to the wrestling world in 2007 when she was invited to join Nigeria’s team for the African Games.

Aruna Quadri Few days after his historic feat in Houston Texas, United States, where he emerged as the first African player to make it to the quarter-final stage at the ITTF World Table Tennis Championships, Quadri set another record by placing 13th which is the highest ever attained by an African player.

The Nigerian was ranked 17th in the world before the tournament in Houston but Aruna gained four steps up in the ranking to be rated 13th in the ITTF ranking being the first by an African. ÏÓØÑ ÞÒÏ ÌÓÑÑÏÝÞ ×ÙàÏÜ Ë×ÙØÑ the top 20 players in the world, Aruna has continued to raise the bar for other African players to emulate with his superlative performance at major competitions.

Victor Osimhen After a not too impressive first season blighted by injuries and

̋ͯͷ ͯͷ ÓÝÝßÏÝ ÓÍÞÙÜ ÝÓ×ÒÏØ has taken the Serie A by storm this season and has become defenders nightmare.

Osimhen came back from a disappointing start to the 2021/2022 season in August after being sent

Efe Brume In a summer Olympics in which Nigeria was in the news for all the wrong reasons - from some of the country’s athletes marching without a face mask to athletes protesting in ÞÒÏ ÝÞÜÏÏÞÝ ÙÐ ÙÕãÙ˜ ÐÏ Üß×Ï áËÝ one of the shining lights for Team Nigeria. The 2019 African Games champion gave Team Nigeria their

first medal at the Tokyo Olympic Games with a bronze medal in the women’s long jump event.

Lionel Messi Lionel Messi won a record seventh ×ÏØ˪Ý ËÖÖÙØ Î˪ Ü ËÐÞÏÜ ÞÒÏ ÐÙÜward was presented with the award in Paris after another record-breaking 12 months for club and country. Ï ÝËá ÙÐÐ ÍÙ×ÚÏÞÓÞÓÙØ ÐÜÙ× ËãÏÜØ Munich striker Robert Lewandowski and Chelsea midfielder Jorginho.”

Anthony Joshua In spite of losing all his belts to Ukrainian challenger, Oleksandr Usyk, Anthony Joshua remains a news maker in the year ending.

Having seen a fight with fellow ÜÓÞÙØ ãÝÙØ ßÜã ÍÙÖÖËÚÝÏ ÖËÝÞ summer, Joshua opted to face his ×ËØÎËÞÙÜã ÍÒËÖÖÏØÑÏÜ ËØÎ former undisputed cruiserweight champion Usyk. The Ukrainian put on a masterclass in front of 65,000 fans inside Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, outclassing Joshua over 12 rounds, and hurting the champion.

Kamaru Usman Kamaru Usman is the first African-born champion in UFC history and wants to bring the UFC to a continent which is continuing to produce incredible champions.

Usman defeated Colby Covington by unanimous decision to retain the UFC welterweight championship. Usman subsequently proclaimed himself the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, Covington “the second-best guy” in the division.

46

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER DECEMBER 25, 2021

NEWSXTRA

Christmas Messages...

Christmas Messages... Christmas Messages...

Akeredolu Urges Moderate Celebration Fidelis David in Akure Ondo State Governor, Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has felicitated Christians across the state and beyond on the occasion of the Christmas celebration, charging the people to reÁect on the season by extending love to the less-privileged and neighbours.

This was contained in a press release made available to journalists by his Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olabode.

Akeredolu said: “Undoubtedly,

Makinde Charges Oyo Residents on Love, Harmonious Co-existence

GOOD TO SEE YOU… L-R: National President of RATTAWU, Dr. Kabir Garba Sanni, receiving a souvenir from the Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Otunba Segun Runsewe, when the RATTAWU president led members of the National Working Committee on a courtesy visit to NCAC boss in Abuja...recently

At Christmas, Gov Diri Charges Bayelsans on Love, Unity Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has urged indigenes of the state and residents alike, to embrace the spirit of love that Christmas exempliÀes in their dealings with each other.

He also called for unity, harmony and reconciliation among people of the state.

Governor Diri gave the charge in his 2021 Christmas message released by his Chief

Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah.

While wishing all believers a Merry Christmas, the governor said his administration would continue to work for the people and foster love and unity based on its shared vision for the prosperity of all.

“Without argument, unity and love are at the core of Christmas just as they are also at the core of being a Bayelsan. So, this Yuletide,

as we are again reminded of God’s love and mercy, let us also commit to live in harmony with our neighbours, family and friends.”

Diri urged followers of Christ to rededicate themselves to God and be faithful to the fundamental values of Christianity, which are faith, love, charity and reconciliation.

“In the spirit of the season, be mindful that as we show

love and compassion to our brothers and sisters, God will equally show us kindness. As we celebrate Christmas, with its glad tidings of great joy, let us remind ourselves that it is the will of our heavenly father that we prosper and be in health.

“This administration has set for itself the noble vision of sustainable prosperity for all and I again call on every Bayelsan to support this vision.”

Gov Sule Calls for Imbibing the Spirit, Teaching of Christmas Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia The Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahhi Sule, has called on Christians in the state and in diaspora to imbibe the spirit and teachings of the festive period by showing love and aͿection, sharing of alms with one another at all times as enshrined in the Holy Book.

this season resonates with deep feelings of excitement and celebration. It is a celebration that has become a ritual among us. The birth of Jesus Christ preaches love, happiness, and salvation for the people. We must be deliberate, this season, to spread love around.

“Notwithstanding this great feeling of joy, I call on our people to celebrate moderately. Judging from the present mood and realities, we must balance our celebration with the realities that will confront us in the New Year.”

Governor Sule made the call in his Christmas message he personally signed and issued to journalists in LaÀa, where he reminded Christians that the birth of Jesus Christ symbolises love, peace, humility and, indeed, dignity for the human race.

“It is for this reason that Jesus Christ embodies selfsacriÀce, good neighborliness,

charity and reconciliation among humankind. This festive season, therefore, calls for sober reÁection and rea΀rmation of moral rectitude as epitomised by Jesus Christ.

“Let me also take the liberty of this blissful occasion to remind all Christians on the signiÀcance of this sacred period to continue to pray for

the sustainable peace, health, well-being and prosperity of our nation’s economy,” he said.

The governor concluded by asking the celebrants to take advantage of the festive period to pray for the restoration of peace, security and harmonious co-existence of Nasarawa State in particular and the country at large.

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

Oyo State Governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde, has urged residents of the state to continue to live in love and harmony.

This is just as he equally charged the residents of the state to adhere strictly to COVID-19 protocol and stay safe amid rising cases of the virus in the country.

According to the governor, residents of Oyo State must celebrate the Yuletide with caution, observe necessary precautions such as proper sanitisation, use of nose covers and maintenance of social distancing, in order to keep the COVID-19 at bay.

While stating that Christmas

presents to the world an opportunity to evaluate the lessons of peace, love and sacriÀcial living, which Jesus Christ taught through his life, he called on Christians and adherents of all other religions in the state to always be at peace and to demonstrate love and brotherliness as development and progress can only take place in an atmosphere of love.

According to him, “As we celebrate Christmas, I celebrate with all residents of the state.

The Christmas festivity presents us all with an opportunity to relive the lessons of love, peace and sacriÀcial living that Christ taught with his life.

We’re Doing Everything Possible to Restore Law and Order, Says Bello Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, in his Christmas message vowed that the government will do everything possible to restore law and order to all parts of the state.

Governor Bello called on all residents of the state to support the security agencies by volunteering credible intelligence and information on the activities of bandits and other criminal elements within their

communities in order to put an end to this blight on the society “I cannot in my right conscience shirk the cardinal responsibility of securing lives and property. Our people must be free to live and move without hindrances. This is crucial not only in enthroning an atmosphere of calm and social cohesion but for the economy to grow and uplift the living standards of the citizenry,” he said

Urges Hope for Gombe Gov Urges Pray for Prosperous Years Ahead, Ngige Nigerians at Christmas Prayers for Nation Bauchi Gov Urges Christians Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has urged Christians to use the period to pray for peace, security and prosperity of the state and the nation.

Governor Yahaya in his goodwill message, enjoined the Christian faithful and the entire people of the state to rededicate themselves and remain steadfast in prayers against all the challenges bedevilling the state and humanity in general.

“We are indeed in a trying moment but I am optimistic that with collective commitment, sacriÀce and by turning to God through prayers we shall overcome all the trials and emerge stronger.”

The governor assured of his administration’s commitment

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

to continue to initiate and execute policies and programmes that will impact positively on the lives of the citizenry and promote unity and peaceful coexistence in the state.

He said: “On this signiÀcant occasion of Christmas, I extend my best wishes to the Christian community and the entire people of the state. This period reminds us of God’s love for humanity and the need to uphold the virtues of compassion, tolerance and love. It also provides an opportunity for reinforcement of unity of purpose, bond of brotherhood and dedication in service to God and humanity as exempliÀed by Jesus Christ.”

The governor also called on Christians to reÁect on the lessons of the season, which he said, presented an opportunity to love and share.

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has urged Christian communities in the state to use the period of the 2021 Christmas celebration to reÁect seriously on the routine spiritual deeds in the last one year and pray to God for a better and prosperous Nigeria.

The governor in his Goodwill message yesterday, tasked Christian brothers and sisters to extend hands of fraternity and fellowship to the adherents of other religions and to equally reÁect on the life and times of Jesus Christ who used his lifetime to preach peace, honesty, love and tolerance for the maintenance of peace and security of mankind.

He said that, “these are indeed virtues that people are expected to emulate irrespective of their religious beliefs. Christmas

period should be an opportunity for Christians to cultivate the habit of love, respect and harmonious relationships with other members of the society.”

He reiterated the need for mutual understanding and respect for one another as well as peaceful coexistence among other various groups.

According to him, “I want to use this auspicious occasion to on behalf of myself and the entire people of Bauchi State, extend my warm and sincere gratitude and goodwill to Christian brothers and sisters.”

He also said that the primary objective of any responsible government was to ensure the security of lives and property of its citizens which he said his administration in collaboration with security agencies are committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property of all people residing in the state.

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, has urged Nigerians not to despair or resign to fate but be ever ready to work their way out of every tribulation, looking up to God for his seamless lead.

In a goodwill message to Christians by his Media OfÀce in Abuja, Senator Ngige described the remembrance of the birth of Jesus Christ, which Christians celebrate at Christmas as the most powerful message of hope in today’s Nigeria, geared in battle against socio-economic and security challenges.

He added that God works in a peculiar way that is beyond human comprehension as exempliÀed in the birth of Christ, the saviour of mankind.

“He was born a King but not the type that mounts the

throne to dish out orders or the chariot to wage wars, but a humble Messiah who must suͿer death for the redemption of mankind.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 25, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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Saturday, December 25 and Sunday, December 26, 2021

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PDP Caucus to Buhari “Everywhere we turn today, our dead are either being prepared for burials by families whose hearts are torn up by grief… unfortunately, the President, who famously boasted of leading from the front, is now missing in action” –PDP caucus in the House of Representatives lamenting insecurity in a memo to President Buhari.

SANI SA’IDU BABA GUEST COLUMNIST

My Encounters with Dele Momodu in Pendulum

M

y dear country men and women, I am highly honoured to feature as a guest writer in one of Africa’s most famous weekly columns, the Pendulum, powered by one of Africa’s most prominent figures, Dr Dele Momodu. He is Bob Dee to some, and to others, he is the famous Bashorun. Dele Momodu is many things in one, including occupying the prestigious position of Aare of Iwoland. He is the diagnostic machine of Nigeria’s in house crisis. It is a great privilege to be very close to this enigma called Chief Dele Momodu, and I am proud to be a partaker of this privilege. He once described my closeness to him as ‘close enough to be counted as a member of my family’.

I started reading his weekly Pendulum in ThisDay on Saturday about seven years ago during the clamour to change former President Goodluck Jonathan with President Muhammadu Buhari. He was a strong advocate of the then prospective president and his change mantra. I had remained an ardent reader of the column ever since, even after he found a reason to part ways with this government, and even when he decided to go on self-induced sabbatical from speaking truth to power. Over time, I’ve come to realize that Dele Momodu has gone far, not only in his chosen line of endeavour, but also in expressing his love for Nigeria and Africa, dating back to about four decades, culminating in throwing his hat in the ring to contest the presidency in 2011.

Those who know him have labeled him a true nationalist, astute politician, kind-hearted philanthropist, successful businessman and vintage game changer. He works round the clock to realize a united Nigeria from his corner. Momodu’s views on today’s government, no doubt, have remained a focal point in today’s Nigerian political space, especially as expressed every Saturday in Thisday and The Boss Newspaper among other feeder media.

Meanwhile, the turning point of my becoming an ardent follower of his weekly pendulum, was my coming in contact with a particular article, which to the best of my rating, remains the most profound ever. The article was captioned “Buhari versus Jonathan - In search of Mathematicians,” and published on October 18, 2014. In the article, he precisely permutated and calculated how Buhari would win the presidency. It came out as accurately as he had predicted.

Before I go into the meat of what I can conveniently call an epistle, I will make a sincere confession that arguably reflects that of discerning minds. Dele Momodu is one of Nigeria’s most detribalized citizens today. My own father once told me that if at least one of Momodu’s likes are seconded to every state, or if Momodu will be in a leadership position, Nigeria would never be this divided. He is known to be very consistent on issues concerning his country.

I must make bold to say that, by my knowledge of him, he does not in any way dislike President Muhammadu Buhari as a person or the North as an entity. This is evident in his critical opinions of all and sundry including Mr. President and geo-political regions. Besides, it is highly unlikely that someone with over 20-30 years credential of maintaining a perfect friendship with famous Northerners like Aliko Dangote, Kashim Imam Ibrahim, Abdussamad Rabiu, Nasiru Ado Bayero, and the families of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, Abdulsalami Abubakar, Wazirin Atiku Abubakar, Yar’Adua, Sani Abacha, Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, Aliyu Gusau, Bamanga Tukur, Solomon Lar, Mai Deribe, Olusola Saraki, Sunday Awoniyi, David Jemibewon, Terry Waya, etc will hate their region. His Ovation International

Momodu magazine has been a veritable platform for uniting, entertaining and informing African families in over a quarter of a century. His networks are second to none.

The naysayers in his political and social sojourn are wont to accuse him of being selective, holding on the unconfirmed agenda that he only focuses on the negatives, as opposed to the positives of the Buhari administration. Well, that is far from the truth. From the private conversations that I have had with him recently, if he hated Buhari, there are certain narratives that he would have since written about him, which he refused to do, even after being encouraged to do so by many people in Nigeria. In any event, there are several published articles Bob Dee had written, directly or indirectly, in defence of the president in the past, and a simple search on Google is enough to vindicate him. He has consistently promoted the daily activities of President Buhari on his powerful platforms since 2015 despite his open disapproval of Buhari’s style of Leadership. The indisputable fact remains that he supported Buhari against his fellow Southerner, Jonathan, simply because of his feelings that Nigeria deserved better, especially when the then-president was recklessly leading the country. There was no option other than President Buhari in 2015. And he felt disappointed by Buhari’s sluggishness and divisiveness, Momodu wasted no time in apologising publicly for supporting him. This is a rarity in our climes.

Every regular reader of the Pendulum knew that Dele Momodu is much concerned about youth leadership. However, he clarified that the Nigerian Youth is only agitating to grab power without following the appropriate roadmap and processes. The truth is, unless the Youth wake up and strive, we will continue to be used by the old breed to clinch powerful positions and continue to relegate the young population to the backbench. And the fundamental solution lies in the Youth joining either of the mainstream political parties, not any nebulous third force.

And they must also change their holier-than-thou attitude of seeking only saints in politics. He said, “If the youth remain impracticable and insist on repeating the same mistakes of contesting on multiple platforms, it would be good riddance to bad rubbish” as captured in the Pendulum titled “the mistakes Nigerians must not repeat in 2023”.

I am highly convinced, beyond reasonable doubt, that the solution to Nigeria’s predicaments lies

in the suggestions made in this article. On this basis, I named Dele Momodu as the diagnostic machine of the Youth and Nigeria’s problems.

He knows exactly what the Youth will have to do to liberate themselves and be part of the decision-making process. Nevertheless, four of his articles, including “Are Nigerian Youths Ready to Run or to Rant”, September 8, 2018; “Lessons from my Presidential Bid of 2011” published on April 11, 2020; “The Atiku Challenge Nigerian Youths Must Accept”, October 23, 2021, and more recently, “My thoughts on the 2023 Presidential Election”, December 18, 2021, are superlative enough to educate the Youths on their imminent power in the political space. I am always fascinated by Momodu’s endless passion for mentoring the Youths and seeing them occupy leadership positions in Nigeria.

Human beings are not particularly popular with giving accolades to people who deserve it. If they are compelled to do so, it would have been noticed from the get-go that they are merely following instructions, making motions or being sarcastic. One of the notably fearless, straight forward and moral human beings in Nigeria that, based on my understanding, would never be compelled to call black, white, in the name of personal interest is Dele Momodu. Perhaps, he has never been compromised by any of his friends, including those within the corridor of power today. He believes that “you should never become Nigeria’s leader simply based on where you come from but by what you have to offer in nation-building. Rotation and zoning are largely responsible for the proliferation of poor and preposterous leadership in Nigeria,” he said in his article titled “What exactly are we restructuring?”

While Bob Dee is being ostracized today by some people who used to praise him and were even fond of the choice adjectives he had used in criticizing President Jonathan, there is a lesson which we could learn from this turn of events. When he made posts via his social media handles or published articles against the Buhari administration, he had a barrage of likes and praises, mostly from bigots from the Nigerian South. The same happened during the infamous reign of Goodluck Jonathan. His criticism of Jonathan became the index for which he was endeared to bigots in the Nigerian North who have sworn, for reasons best known to them, to never like Jonathan in their lives. If anything, what we have learnt from the Buhari, and Jonathan administrations are that intransigent bigots exist from both the Nigerian North and South. Bigots from both sides have now been well identified, as we now know them by their fruits. In the future, serious-minded Nigerians should not take the intransigent Buharists or the intransigent Jonathanians seriously. There are brilliant Nigerians with well-balanced senses of judgment from all the different sections of the country. He could engage in a non-bigoted and civil discussion about contemporary Nigerian events and personalities.

In the edition of July 18, 2020, titled “Is the President Aware this House is Falling” and January 24, 2021, titled “Who Shall Tell the President Nigeria is Dying” and a lot more, he lamented bitterly about both moral and intellectual decay of the bond that united Nigerians as a nation, with particular reference to security, corruption, promotion of mediocrity at the expense of people with great ideas, nepotism, and favouritism. In another weekly Pendulum, he petitioned President Buhari about several issues of national concern, unity of the country included. This he did without fear, for indeed, he was convinced that he was fighting for the truth.

In the opening part of the article, he made it clear that Nigeria is dying. He particularly mentioned that ‘Fellow Nigerians please take note of the title of my column this week. I did not say Nigerians are dying. That is stale news, as well as an understatement. My focus is that the country called Nigeria is dying. I do not know what sort of security briefing President Muhammadu Buhari, regularly or periodically receives from his reticent and incompetent security team. I doubt it includes the fact that Nigeria is speeding towards a monumental collapse unless a miracle or something drastic is done to stop this supersonic drift towards perdition”.

However, the likes of these articles had generated a lot of negativity, including the accusation that he always attacks the government. There is no compelling moral force that says that to be objective in your arguments, you must strike a balance between support and opposition or praise and criticism, especially in a democratic setting. That is an argument for the unintelligent.

How is preference or speciality a problem, and how does this make a person less objective?

We are at liberty to choose whether to focus on the positives or the negatives of every situation in life. What then is there to report about the positives of any government in the world since they have not sent men to land in Jupiter for an economically profitable expedition? For example, what is there to report if the president is constructing roads and hospitals for his subjects, a duty for which he swore to do, and for which he is being paid to do, and for which, ultimately, our legal status as citizens grants us a social responsibility to hold him accountable? What is objective is for us to be truthful in what we say, and do, about whosoever we choose to criticize or praise. Therefore, there are no problems for me if Bob Dee focuses on the negatives of the Buhari administration, provided he is telling the truth about the administration.

Dele Momodu initially began to give up, to the extent that he declared to go on voluntary sabbatical on January 25, 2020, from advising and telling the government of today the truth, before his more than three decades of the tireless spirit of patriotism made him rethink. He wrote with the hope that the government would take prompt measures to restore the confidence of the Nigerian people in the leadership and re-establish a more respectable administrative machinery in the various sectors in the country.

However, even though I believe in Dele Momodu’s integrity and neutrality, I am still worried and uncomfortable with some of his views, for a reason. We could recall that he offered himself as a voluntary advisor to President Buhari free of charge and promised to tell him the truth that his paid advisors and others in the corridors of power might not. What better way could he have used to show his selfless nature and high sense of patriotism? But as a high-profile personality that every president would want to acquire in their camp, Dele Momodu did not find time to visit the president for verbal talks about issues in the country. The first time he was in the Villa since the president was sworn in 2015 was when he was invited. The second time was when he accompanied his friend to the Villa, the former president of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama. So, he has virtually met with president Buhari just two times, unless maybe at functions. How sure is he that the power mongers would allow the president to read his concerns, as contained in the Pendulum?

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