My plans for this year— Jonathan

...towards a better life for the people

**

VOL. 25: NO. 62048

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Bye-Bye 2013

•MAN OF THE YEAR •Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan Governor of Delta State •AFRICAN OF THE YEAR •Alhaji Aliko Dangote President, Dangote Group

•MOST INNOVATIVE ENTREPRENEUR •Dr Innocent Chukwuma Chairman, Innoson Vehicles Manufacturing Co. Ltd See Pages 29-40

My plans for this year— Jonathan •More jobs for youths in 2014 •To cut official travels, speed up National confab •100 yrs of Amalgamation, time for sober reflection COLUMNISTS:

•P.17

•P.52 C M Y K

Three siblings burnt to death, 10 houses razed in Delta P.6

Boko Haram members masquerade as Keke riders, hawkers in Abuja —COAS 8&9

BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE & BEN AGANDE

A

BUJA—PRESI DENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday promised Nigerian youths more jobs this year and improved wellbeing for the citizenry through focused implementation of the Transformation Agenda.

In a six-page, 2896word New Year message, the President, who restated that the amalgaContinues on page 5

Mr & Mrs

2 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014 — 3

C M Y K

4 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014—5

POCKET CARTOON

ONDO BUDGET2014 —Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko (right), presenting the Budget 2014 estimates to the Deputy Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon Dare Eniola, yesterday in Akure.

My plans for this year — Jonathan mation of the country exactly 100 years ago was not a mistake but a blessing, however, said that the centenary of the country ’s nationhood was a moment for sober reflection.

Enumerating the achievements of his administration last year, the president said he

would this year “diligently carry forward the purposeful and focused implementation of our agenda for national transformation in priority areas such as power, the rehabilitation and expansion of national infrastructure, agricultural development, education and employment generation.”

Jonathan also called on

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

Instead of losing we can learn from our failures and faults.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

L

IVE with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Practice wellness. Play with abandon.

Laugh. Choose with no regret. Appreciate your friends. Continue to learn. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is— Mary A. Radmacher Mr. Albert Einstein was right: If you feel you need to go one way, even when everyone else is going the other way, do so, do so to make positive changes in your life and for this world. I guarantee you that you will never regret that decision. Believe in yourself, other people will also believe you in time.

If you have clear goals and you believe you can reach them, then your mind has the highest possible amount of receptivity to elements that can help you reach your goals. Thus you’ll detect them quickly, even the subtle ones, and you’ll be able to employ them.

When you approach a goal with disbelief, you feel anxiety and your thinking gets clogged by it, which makes finding good solutions to reach that goal less probable.

On the other hand, self-belief makes you relax and think clearly. It stimulates reasoning, memory and, above all, creativity. This makes it more likely that you’ll find good solutions to reach your goals.

In particular, you’ll be able to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions that work really well.

Nigerians to place the higher interests of national unity, peace, stability and progress above all other considerations and work harder in their various fields to contribute more significantly to the attainment of our collective aspirations.

The message read: Dear Compatriots, I greet and felicitate with you all as we enter the year 2014 which

,

Continues from page 1

geopolitical entity known as Nigeria. For us therefore, today is not just the beginning of a new year, but the end of a century of national existence and the beginning of another. It is a moment for sober reflection and for pride in all that is great about Nigeria.

Whatever challenges we may have faced, whatever storms we may have confronted and survived, Nigeria remains a truly blessed country, a country of gifted men and women who continue to distinguish themselves in all spheres of life, a country whose diversity remains a source of strength. We pay tribute today, as always to our founding fathers and mothers, and all the heroes and heroines whose toil and sweat over the century made this country what it is today.

As I noted, a few days ago, the amalgamation of 1914 was certainly not a mistake but a blessing.

As we celebrate 100 years of nationhood, we must resolve to continue to work together as one, united people, to make our country even greater.

I assure you that our administration remains fully committed to the progressive development of our country and the consolidation of peace, unity and democratic governance in our

Our national budget for 2014 which is now before the National Assembly is specifically targeted at job creation and inclusive growth.

,

promises to be a momentous one for our country for several reasons, including the fact that it is also the year of our great nation’s centenary celebrations. I join you all in giving thanks to God Almighty for guiding us and our beloved nation safely through all the challenges of the outgoing year to the beginning of 2014.

Exactly 100 years ago today, on January 1, 1914, the British Colonial authorities amalgamated what was then the separate Protectorates of Southern Nigeria and Northern Nigeria, giving birth to the single

fatherland. Despite several continuing domestic and global challenges, for us in Nigeria, the year 2013 witnessed many positive developments which we will strive to build upon in 2014.

We have diligently carried forward the purposeful and focused implementation of our agenda for national transformation in priority areas such as power, the rehabilitation and expansion of national infrastructure, agricultural development, education and employment generation.

You may recall that our

2013 Budget was on the theme, “Fiscal Consolidation with Inclusive Growth”, and I emphasized the need for us to “ remain prudent with our fiscal resources and also ensure that the Nigerian economy keeps growing and creating jobs”. I am pleased to report that we have stayed focused on this goal.

Our national budget for 2014 which is now before the National Assembly is specifically targeted at job creation and inclusive growth. We are keenly aware that in spite of the estimated 1.6 million new jobs created across the country in the past 12 months as a result of our actions and policies, more jobs are still needed to support our growing population. Our economic priorities will be stability and equitable growth, building on the diverse sectors of our economy.

In 2013, we commenced implementation of the National Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) aimed at industrializing Nigeria and diversifying our economy into sectors such as agro-processing, light manufacturing, and petrochemicals.

We have also negotiated a strong Common External Tariff (CET) agreement with our ECOWAS partners which would enable us to protect our strategic industries where necessary.

I am pleased to note that as a result of our backward integration policies, Nigeria has moved from a country that produced 2 million metric tonnes of cement in 2002, to a country that now has a capacity of 28.5 million metric tonnes. For the first time in our history, we have moved from being a net importer of cement to a net exporter. Foreign direct investment into Ni-

geria has also been strong. In fact, for the second year running, the UN Conference on Trade and Development has named Nigeria as the number 1 destination for investments in Africa.

We are witnessing a revolution in the agricultural sector and the results are evident. We have tackled corruption in the input distribution system as many farmers now obtain their fertilizers and seeds directly through an e-wallet system. In 2013, 4.2 million farmers received subsidized inputs via this programme.

This scheme has restored dignity to our farmers.

Last year we produced over 8 million metric tonnes of additional food; and this year, inflation fell to its lowest level since 2008 partly due to higher domestic food production. Our food import bill has also reduced from N1.1 trillion in 2011, to N648 billion in 2012, placing Nigeria firmly on the path to food self-sufficiency.

The sector is also supporting more jobs. Last year, we produced 1.1 million metric tonnes of dry season rice across 10 Northern states; and over 250,000 farmers and youths in these States are now profitably engaged in farming even during the dry season.

This Administration is also developing our water resources which are key for both our food production and job creation goals. In 2013, we completed the construction of nine dams which increased the volume of our water reservoirs by 422 million cubic metres. Through our irrigation and drainage programme, we have increased the total irrigated area by over 31,000 hectares creating jobs for over 75,000 Continues on page 51

6—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

20-yr-old man drowns in Delta

Three siblings burnt to death, 10 houses razed in Delta

BY AKPOKONA OMAFUAIRE

BY FESTUS AHON

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GHELLI—TRAG EDY struck at Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area, Delta State, on Boxing Day as a young man of about 20 years drowned in a beach in the community.

The deceased, it was gathered, had gone to swim with some of his friends in the beach in the spirit of the yuletide.

A source who helped to fished out the body of the deceased, told newsmen that he had gone to the beach to cool off, adding that as he was swimming to the shore about 5.55pm when his leg stepped on a human lifeless body.

The source who spoke on condition of anonymity, said he raised an alarm before he dragged the body out of the river.

He said attempts to resuscitate the deceased did not yield result as the body had been underneath the water for too long.

Efforts to contact the beach resort management for comments proved abortive at press time but a regular caller at the resort told newsmen that it was difficult for the resort management to keep an eye on every swimmer due to the large turnout of visitors to the resort on a daily basis.

W

ARRI — TRAGEDY struck, Monday, as three kids of same parents were burnt to death in an inferno which consumed 10 make-shift houses at Oroke Estate in Ovwian, Udu Council Area of Delta State.

An eye witness said the source of the fire could not be ascertained but suggested it could be from candle light or generating sets as there was power outage at time of the incident.

Our source said the tragic incident occurred at about 9.43 p.m while both parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jakpor Emuruohwose and their eldest daughter, aged 11years, were away Father of the victims, a graduate of Petroleum Training Institute, Mr. Emuruohwose, 38, is a native of Okonohwoakpo-Egbo of Kokori Inland, Ethiope East Council Area of Delta State.

The victims, two boys and a girl, ages between 9 and 3, were in great health and hopeful before the tragic incident which has left both young parent stunned.

Our source said the fire started from Emuruohwose’s side of the

all zinc estate and the kids ran inside to the room as the fire was billowing.

According to the source, “Two of the kids died in the fire and the other one died in the hospital from severe burns. Property worth millions of Naira were destroyed

in the fire.

“We made frantic efforts to quench the fire but it was beyond our power. By the time the fire service came, the havoc was already done and angry mob chased them away, pelting them with stones in anger.

“Out of fear, the fire service officials drove away as their vehicle windsreens were shattered.

Maybe, they would have assisted but for the angry youths.”

Our correspondent visited the scene, yesterday, sympathisers were seen discussing the incident.

People queuing to fetch water in Okene in Kogi State, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN.

6 inter-state robbers, 50 other suspects arrested in Abia zCache of arms, ammunition recovered

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA

O

WERRI— SIX interstate robbers are among over 50 suspects arrested by crack operatives of Imo State police command’s ‘Ambush Squad’ for varying criminal acts.

Parading the suspects in Owerri, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Mohammed Katsina, said apart from those arrested, the command recovered cache of arms, ammunition, cash, vehicles, mobile phones and a host of other valuables from the hoodlums.

He said: “Items recovered from the criminals included nine AK-47 rifles, seven assault rifles, 15 locally made pistols, 14 pump action guns and seven locally made double barrel guns.”

The CP also disclosed that the command recovered two revolver pistols, one Markrov pistol, 51 vehicles, 70 motorcycles.

The police also recovered two tricycles, household appliances and accessories, 100 telephones, five master keys, over 200 ignition keys of Toyota Camry cars and six different vehicle number plates.

Giving graphic details of some of the incidents, Katsina recalled that three inter-state robbers from Nasarawa State, Umani Ali (20), Mohammed

Ibrahim (25), Salusi Mohammed (22) and their counterpart from Ondo State, Bisi Jimoh (35), were arrested while in transit after successfully robbing their victims in Port Harcourt.

“During the arrest, a total sum of N990,825 and $2,700, as well as a green coloured Toyota Sienna car were recovered from them”, Katsina said.

Another set of inter-state robbers, Uchechukwu Muolokwu (28) from Ojoto, Anambra State and Ugozo Ajaere (30), a native of Awa, Oguta, Imo State were also arrested.

According to the CP, “six Toyota Camry cars, one master key and over 200 assorted vehicle keys, mainly for Toyota Camry cars and different types of vehicle numbere plates were recovered.”

Court remands 4 in prison

S

Commissioner of Police, Delta State, Mr Ikechukwu Aduba, displays arms and ammunition recovered from January to December at a news conference in Asaba, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN.

ANGO-OTA (OGUN) — AN Ota Magistrates’ Court in Ogun State, yesterday, remanded four men, Isiaka Ayorinde (38); Ayodele Olarewaju (24), Qudus Adesola (27) and Bunmi Thomas (22), in prison for alleged obbery.

They are facing a two-count charge of armed robbery and conspiracy.

The prosecutor, Cpl. Rosemary

Brown, had told the court that the accused and others at large, committed the offences on December 6 at about 1.35 a.m.

Brown said the accused persons and the others at large, attacked the complainant, Mr Oladimeji Balogun at Oladimeji Street, Ajibanwo in Ota. She said the accused dispossessed the complainant of a Samsung cell phone valued at

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014—7

DSS arrests pastor, 6 children, 9 others for currency counterfeiting

BY IFEANYI OKOLIE

with agency reports

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OKOJA — A Pastor report edly kidnapped along with his six children were afterall arrested by officials of the Department of State Services, DSS, in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital.

The service, yesterday, announced the arrest of a syndicate, including the pastor, over the alleged printing and circulation of fake naira notes.

The Director of DSS, Mr Mike Fubara, said this when he presented the suspects to newsmen, adding that the syndicate included 15 others, including the pastor’s six children.

He named the pastor as Godson Akubuiro, the General Overseer of The Mountain of Breakthrough Deliverance Ministry, Lagos.

Fubara said DSS in its effort to trace the source of the "worrisome fake naira currency in circulation in the state undertook a covert operation to uncover those behind the act. ‘’This operation took the service close to four months before a breakthrough resulting in the arrest of the 16-man syndicate led

by Reverend Godson O. Akubuiro,’, the director said.

He said the operation took security agents to The Breakthrough Church, also known as Land of Solution, located at Plot 7, Koya Estate, Igbo Olomu, Agric, Ikorodu, Lagos.

He said the suspects were being investigated preparatory to their prosecution.

Items recovered

The director said items recovered from the suspects include equipment and materials used in printing fake currencies.

Other items recovered were a large quantity of printed fake notes, cut to size blank currency notes and N1.3 million fake naira notes.

Fubara urged the public to be wary of the fake naira notes in circulation and report suspects to the service.

I

Pastor Akubuiro and his children. PHOTO: OSUN DEFENDER.

privileged—Pastor Akubuiro, however, told newsmen that he was not using the money for himself but in supporting the less privileged and the

needy in his congregation.

He, however, pleaded for leniency, saying men of God were often tempted like King David in the Bible, who as a man after God’s heart but fell many times

and was still pardoned by God. Pastor Godson Akubuiro and six of his children were reportedly kidnapped on Friday from their Adeosun Street residence, Koya Estate, Igbo Olomu, Ikorodu, and Lagos State.

Police arraign mechanic for breach of trust, theft

A

BUJA — THE police, yes terday, arraigned a 35-yearold mechanic, Kasim Rasaki, of Ado Village, Nasarawa State in a Senior Magistrates’ Court for criminal breach of trust and car theft.

The prosecutor, Sgt. Abdullahi Adamu, told the court that Mrs Chizoba Whyte of Lokota Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, reported the matter at the Wuse Police Station, Abuja, on December 20.

He said the accused introduced

himself as a mechanic and fraudulently deceived Whyte into believing that he could repair her car but ended up stealing it.

Adamu said Rasaki collected the complainant’s vehicle, a Toyota Camry with registration no: AW 553 GWA, valued at N1.8 million.

The prosecutor said that the battery of the car, the jack and the stereo head were recovered from the accused during investigation,

an offence which contravened the provisions of sections 312 and 287 of Penal Code.

After the charges were read to him, the accused pleaded not guilty.

The prosecutor prayed the court not to grant the accused bail because investigations were still ongoing.

The Magistrate, Mr Aliyu Shafa, admitted the accused to bail in the sum of N500,000 with a surety in a like sum.

I used the money to support the less

over robbery N12,000, a wrist watch valued at N3,500 and jewelleries valued at N17,000, totaling N35,000.

“The accused and others at large used one locally-made gun to dispossess Balogun of the items during the attack,” she said.

The magistrate, Mr Alliu Soneye, said the accused persons should be kept in prison pending an advice from the state Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Banks close early in Ilorin over fear of robbery attacks

Some Nigerians repatriated from Saudi Arabia at the local wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN.

LORIN — BANK cus tomers in Ilorin, the Kwara capital, have been going through hassles to transact businesses as the local branches now close at 2.00 pm over fear of attack by robbers.

According to reports, the development was caused by a December 19 incident in Offa during which an estimated 30 robbers stormed some banks killing a number of people.

The robbers also raided a divisional police station in the town during the attack which occurred at about 6.00pm.

Consequently, banks in Ilorin close as early as 2.00 pm instead of the usual 4.00 pm, forcing scores of customers to resort to the use of the Automated Teller Machines, ATMs. This has led to long queues at the ATMs as customers besiege the cash dispensing machines for transactions.

A member of staff of one the banks, who pleaded anonymity, confirmed that the banks’ refusal to open till the usual 4.00 pm was caused by fears of impending attack.

Some of the customers said the development was unfortunate.

They called on the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to rise to the occasion and secure lives and property.

They urged government at all levels to create jobs and initiate people-oriented programmes to cater for the teeming unemployed youths.

The Kwara Police Commissioner, Mr Agboola Oshodi-Glover, said yesterday that the police were on top of the situation.

He said the command had deployed its officers and men to the nooks and crannies of the state to reduce crime rate to the barest minimum.

He urged the people to go about their businesses without any fear and cooperate with the police.

8 — Vanguard,WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

NYSC gets new D-G

BY CALEB AYANSINA

A

BUJA— THE Federal Government, yesterday, announced the appointment of Brig.-Gen. Johnson Olawumi as the new Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC. A statement by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Pius Anyim, in Abuja, said Olawumi’s appointment took effect from December 23.

Olawumi, who hails from Iyin Ekiti, in Ekiti State, attended the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, and was commissioned into the Nigerian Army on September 23, 1989.

He has a Bachelor of Science’s degree in Mathematics from the Nigerian Defence Academy, and a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ilorin.

Olawumi also bagged a Master ’s degree in Defence Studies from Kings College, London.

Similarly, President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the reappointment of Dr. Paul Orhii as the DirectorGeneral of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, with effect from January 13, 2014.

This is contained in a statement issued, yesterday, in Abuja by Anyim, Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

The statement said Jonathan also approved the re-appointment of Prof. Francis Idachaba, as the Chairman, Governing Board of the Nigerian Merit Award, with effect from December 29.

Boko Haram members masquerade as K

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU & JOSEPH ERUNKE

z How we frustrated reign of terror in Abuja —COA

A

BUJA— SECURITY agents have uncovered new methods of operations

by Boko Haram terrorists in Abuja.

Investigations revealed that the insurgents have taken up menial jobs, such as cobblers (shoe makers), Keke NAPEP (tricycle) operators and sachet (pure) water sellers, as cover.

The undercover operatives of Boko Haram were said to have also recently targeted Abuja suburbs, including the Jikwoyi Police Station, a church and a major commercial bank in Kurudu, had also planned to assassinate a policewoman living in the vicinity of the police station.

Vanguard learnt that the covert operations of the sect, as detailed by the Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika and the Director of State Security, Mr. Ita Ekpenyong were, however, frustrated due to undercover operations by security agents.

Details of the failed Boko Haram attacks were made to the Senate Joint Committee on National Security and Intelligence, and Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, which investigated the killing of eight persons at the Apo Legislative Quarters, Abuja last year.

According to the report obtained by Vanguard, General Ihejirika confirmed to the committee that Boko Haram terrorists had increased activities in places around Abuja Apo, Karu, Mararaba and Suleja.

Sect’s movement to Abuja

The army chief said the increase of the insurgents’ activities followed security operations in the North-East, which forced the insurgents to relocate to Abuja.

The report submitted to the Senate before the yuletide break disclosed that Mr. Ekpenyong told the Joint

Made a widow by Boko Haram.

Senate Committee that the terrorists had targeted the Nigerian Police Station, Jikwoyi; a Church in Kurudu; First Bank Plc, Kurudu and planned the assassination of a Policewoman that resides in Kurudi, Abuja.

He said the arrest of a

suspected Boko Haram terrorist, Alhassan Ahmed, temporarily disrupted the sect’s plan to attack Abuja.

He also disclosed how the Department of State Services received intercepts indicating planned attack of Abuja and how a member of the sect,

Shamsu, popularly known as GOC, from Potiskum in Yobe State, had allegedly informed his associate, Suleiman Musa, who resides around Federal Capital Development Authority Quarters, Yauri Street, Maitama, Abuja, of his plans to acquire items suspected to

FG not responsible for security challenges — MAKU

BY CALEB AYANSINA & EMMA ELEBEKE

A

BUJA— THE Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, yesterday, said the current insecurity challenges in the country were not the creation of Federal Government, but local politicians that felt Nigeria belong to them.

The minister said they caused crises to discredit Jonathan’s administration and that in spite of that, the government had made tremendous progress in all sectors of the economy in the last three years.

Maku, who stated this during a world press conference to review Federal Government’s achievements in 2013 in Abuja, noted that those criticising government were doing so because of their ambitions for the 2015 general election.

According to him, government has been able to manage the economy in spite of the economic meltdown in the world economy.

He further said the present administration, in spite of political denials, had been able to developed people-oriented economy, with the highest Gross Domestic Growth, GDP, recorded consecutively in the past three years.

The minister maintained that the government had ensured stability in the exchange rate, low inflation rate and high economic growth, due to proper management of the economy.

This, according to him, had made Nigeria the highest receiver of foreign investment in the continent.

Maku said: “Nigeria’s GDP is one of the fastest growing in the world. Growth rate in

2013 was put at 7.2 per cent by International Monetary Fund, IMF. “The dollar exchange rate has remained stable in the last two years (between N155 and N160).

“Inflation rate is declining and has been in single digits all year. Current inflation rate is eight per cent in September, down from nine in January 2013.

“By May 2013, Nigeria’s foreign reserve was $48.4 billion up from $32.08 billion in May 2011.

“Excess Crude Account, ECA, rose from $4 billion in 2011 to $9 billion at the end of 2012. It is now helping the country to cushion the effects of current low earnings from oil.

“Nigeria’s debt to GDP is 21 per cent, compared with South Africa, 42.7; USA, 106; UK, 90 and Japan, 225.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014 — 9

Keke riders, hawkers, cobblers in Abuja

AS, DSS D-G

an attack was imminent in the FCT, the Service through technical intelligence and geolocation operations, arrested two suspects namely Mohammed Adamu and Kamal Abdullahi, September 18, 2013 near a mosque at Old Market, Garki, Abuja.

“The analysis of Call Data Record, CDR, revealed that

Adamu was in constant telephone communication with Suleiman Musa. The intercepts had link with a plot to attack the Federal Capital Territory, FCT. “The intercepts so far received after the raid at Apo have revealed that security forces have effectively disrupted another planned

attack in the FCT. “So far, the Service has launched several operations against the Boko Haram sect in the FCT. But for obvious security reasons, the operations were being conducted discreetly and professionally to avoid unduly heightening public apprehension.”

NGOs, CSOs speak for Boko Haram — ORITSEJAFOR

BY CALEB AYANSINA

A

BUJA— THE President of Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, has carpeted Civil Society Organisations, CSOs, and Non-Governmental Organisations, NGOs, for their failure to speak on behalf of marginalised groups, particularly Christians, who are oppressed because of their faith in some parts of the country.

Oritsejafor spoke when he received a Christian group, led by the Gung Zaar in Bauchi State, Air Commodore Isahaku Komo (rtd.), who were in his

be riffles from an undisclosed source for possible attacks.

Intercepts

Ekpenyong was further quoted in the committee report as saying “as a result of the continuous inflow of intercepts, which revealed that

office to seek intervention over alleged marginalisation of his community by the state government.

Oritsejafor said: “I am President of CAN because of you. Let me make it clear that I am not a politician. I am just a pastor and the leader of Christians in Nigeria and I have no input, no impact, no interest on anything that has to do with politics.

“Let me say that you have my support because I cannot sit down and see any group of persons or even an individual unjustly treated in this country.

“Once there is marginalisation and

B

ENIN— THE Chief of Army Staff, Lt-General Azubike Ihejirika, yesterday, assured Nigerians of the readiness of the Army to guarantee security of lives and property.

He stated this at the 4 Brigade Headquarters of the Nigerian Army, Benin, Edo State, during the commissioning of projects embarked upon in the last 11 months by the outgoing commander of the Brigade, Brigadier-General Pat Akem.

Ihejirika, who was accompanied by top military Generals from the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, commended President Goodluck Jonathan for improved funding of the force.

He warned those perpetrating violence in the North to embrace the peace initiatives of the President to avoid clashing with the Nigerian army.

BY CHRIS OCHAYI

A

B U J A — PROGRESSIVES People’s Alliance, PPA, has called on Nigerians, especially the political class, to shun violence as the nation enters the crucial year of decision making and electioneering.

National Chairman of PPA, Mr. Peter Ameh, who gave the charge in a New Year message issued in Abuja, particularly asked the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, to give peace a chance.

Ameh, who recalled how governors elected under the platform of PPA and ANPP decamped to PDP in the recent past, said: “Heaven did not fall when former Governor Ikedi Ohakim of Imo State and incumbent Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State dumped the PPA to join PDP.”

... as Canada designates sect terrorist organisation A

BUJA— CANADA has formally designated Boko

Haram and the Caucasus Emirate as terrorist

Ihejirika assures on security

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

victimisation, poverty will set in. The level of poverty is very high. If there is nothing else we can do, we can tell the world of your plight. Where are the Civil Society Groups?

Where are the human right groups, both national and international?

“I am aware of international and even national civil right groups that are fighting for Boko Haram. They are fighting for better accommodation and better life for the sect.

“I am worried about this development. It is puzzling to me. They even hold press conferences on the sect’s behalf.”

PPA cautions politicians against violence

He said: “I am delighted to be here as a way of encouraging all my commanders to continue to work hard.

“As we are here, there are several officers and soldiers who did not even know the day we had Christmas or whether tomorrow (today) is New Year, because they are committed in various operations.

“It is difficult for me to describe in full what is being done. But all

I can say is that the capacity of the military to deal with the security problems are being improved on through the support of the government.

“A lot is in place, including training and acquisition of skills and a lot is being done already to confine the insurgents in particular areas and to force them to surrender and see the wisdom in government’s gesture for dialogue.”

organisations under the country’s Criminal Code.

Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Steven Blaney, made the announcement in a statement dated December 30 in Ottawa and posted on the ministry’s website.

It said: “Boko Haram is an organisation that is responsible for over 300 attacks in Northern Nigeria, which have resulted in the death of over 1,000 people.

“The Caucasus Emirate has carried out terrorist activities in Russia, resulting in the death and injury of many Russian civilians and security personnel.”

It quoted Blaney as saying that listing these organisations as terrorist entities sends a

strong message that such actions will not be tolerated.

It added that the list would facilitate the prosecution of perpetrators and supporters of terrorism, as well as countering terrorist financing.

According to the statement, under Canada’s Criminal Code, any person or group listed may have their assets seized and forfeited.

It said there may be severe penalties for persons and organisations that dealt in the property or finances of a listed entity.

“It is a crime to knowingly participate in, or contribute to, any activity of a listed entity for the purpose of enhancing the ability of the entity to facilitate or carry out a terrorist activity,” it added.

10—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

Ikeja Police College yet to resume training

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AGOS — THE Ni geria Police are yet to restart training at the Ikeja Police College, eight months after completion of its rehabilitation.

A visit to the college, yesterday, showed no activities.

The spokesman for the college, DSP Samuel Jinadu confirmed that the school would only begin training when directed by the Force Headquarters.

Jinadu said that the college was prepared to admit trainees following the completion of its rehabilitation.

“The college will start training recruits and officers as soon as there is a directive from the headquarters.

Why work on pedestrian bridges is slow — Works controller

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AGOS — MR. Oluwatoyin Obikoya, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, yesterday, blamed the slow pace of work on LagosAbeokuta Expressway pedestrian bridges on relocation of some installations.

Obikoya said that the relocation of transformers, electric poles and other facilities in the right of way of the bridges had slowed down work.

He said work was still in progress on the two bridges at Iyana-Ipaja and Dopemu in spite of the relocation of the facilities.

“Work is on-going, but we have the problem of relocating some items such as electric poles, transformers and other installations.

“There is a 500 KVA substation already completed with a transformer that should be relocated.

“This item and others in the right of way of the bridges are slowing down work,” Obikoya said.

He, however, expressed the hope that the job would be completed on schedule in 2014.

Many pedestrians have been knocked down by speeding vehicles on the highway as a result of lack of foot bridges.

70 displaced as fire razes 3 buildings in Lagos zFashola opens relief camp for victims for the displaced victims.

Vanguard leant that the fire disaster occurred at about 3:00 p.m. on Monday and razed the three buildings on Nos. 34,35 & 36 Obi Osa Street, Off Baruwa Bus Stop, Ijesa, destroying property worth several millions.

Information officer of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Mr. Ibrahim Farinloye, while

speaking to Vanguard, yesterday, said that three houses were razed by the inferno and one person sustained injury while trying to escape the scene.

Farinloye explained that fire disaster may have occurred due to electrical surge, saying, “when we arrived at the scene, the electricity was still on. Immediately we noticed this, we called the authorities in

charge of power supply in the area to disconnect the power supply to the area.”

AGOS — TRAGEDY Confirming the action of the struck at Ijesa area of state governor, the General Lagos, as fire razed three Manager of the Lagos State buildings, with over 70 peoEmergency Management ple displaced Agency, LASEMA, Dr. Femi However, barely 24 hours Oke-Osanyintolu said the after the disaster, the state agency was prompt in regovernor, Babatunde Fashola sponding to the fire out-break ordered that the Agbowa rethrough the Local Emergency lief camp, Ikorodu be opened Management Committee in Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area.

Oke-Osanyintolu said LASEMA, as the first responder came to the scene to complement the work of the local emergency management committee.

The LASEMA General Manager said investigation was on-going to ascertain the cause of the fire.

“The fire incident resulted in displaced people. As a consequence of this, the governor has directed that the Lagos State Relief Camp in Agbowa be opened.

“LASEMA has therefore commenced the evacuation of the Internally Displaced People, IDP, to the Agbowa Relief Camp as directed by the governor of the state,” he said.

Oke-Osanyintolu said the agency had begun the enumeration of the displaced persons and would relocate them to the camp anytime from CELEBRATION: Last minute shopping and slaughtering of chickens for New Year celebration, now. yesterday, at the Mile One Market, in Port Harcourt. Photo. Nwankpa Chijioke BOSE ADELAJA & MONSURU OLOWOOPEJO

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Court orders detention of Bamidele’s aides

BY GBENGA ARIYIBI

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DO EKITI — THE Chief Magistrate's Court sitting in Ado Ekiti has ordered continued detention of two aides of a House of Representatives member, Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele for alleged plot to attack, Mr. Deji Adesokan, a Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Internal Security The two accused persons, Afolabi Oyediran and Oluwafemi

Sunday, were arrested on December 20, 2013 at 7.30p.m. at Irewolede Estateon Ilawe Road, Ado Ekiti with a Barretta Pistol loaded with eight rounds of ammunition within Adesokan’s premises.

The duo were slammed with two-count charge of conspiracy and illegal possession of firearms, punishable under sections 324 of the criminal code, Cap 16 Laws of Ekiti State and 3(1) of the Rob-

bery and Firearm Act, Cap R11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

When the charge sheet was read, the accused persons pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against them.

The Presiding Magistrate, Simon Ojo, who ordered that the duo be remanded in prison custody pending the next adjournment date in his ruling, said their offences could pose serious secu-

LASG to set standards for abattoirs

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AGOS — THE Lagos State government, yesterday, said it had put in place a reform to set standards for the operation of abattoirs in the state.

Mr. Gbolahan Lawal, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Cooperatives, made the disclosure in an interview in Lagos.

He said that the reform, tagged: 'The Red Meat Industry Reform,' was to ensure that meat

processing was done in hygienic conditions.

He added that “the reform is the state government’s response to the problem of illegal abattoirs and preparation of animals in unhygienic conditions.

“The state government is concerned about the health of residents and the reform seeks to ensure that the meat consumed by the people does not constitute

threat to their health.”

The commissioner said a major component of the reform was the prohibition of the practice of trekking cattle from the market to the point of slaughtering.

Lawal said “when you make animals trek from one point to another, you get them tired and this reduces the meat quality of the animals.

rity threat to the state.

Magistrate Ojo averred that granting them bail at this stage might not be appropriate because the offences are serious and the issue of security cannot be taken lightly.

“So, the application is hereby refused,” the judge said.

Earlier, the Prosecutor, Cpl Olasunkanmi Bankole, told the Court that the police are not against bail for the accused persons, saying it is an exclusive prerogative of the Court to exercise such discretion.

The Counsel to the accused persons, Barr Chris Omokhafe while arguing for bail, said “bail application is not a foreclosure of a case. It is not the finality , but a rudimentary legal way of making an accused person attends to trial.

“The two accused persons have no criminal records . There are credible sureties to stand for them and we as lawyers will make sure they obey the Court if granted bail”.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014 — 11

Aregbesola presents N216bn budget for 2014

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

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SOGBO — GOVERNOR Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State has presented the 2014 budget estimate totalling N216billion to the state House of Assembly for approval.

Represented by his Special Ad v i s e r o n B u d g e t , M r.

Bade Adesina, Aregbesola declared that the budget cuts across all the sectors of the state’s economy and was prepared in line with the six-point Integral Action Plan of his administration.

Also, he stated that his administration will continue to embark on projects that will make life more meaningful for the people of the state.

The budget, which was christened 'Budget of Growth Enhancement and Development,' totalling N216,745,213,260 was smaller than that of last year which was N234,269,308,820.

The Governor explained that the shortfall in the prices of crude oil and the oil theft in the country were responsible for the reduction in the budget compared with that of 2013.

According to the budget, the over-head cost was put at N17,969,297,750, the consolidated cost was

N52,493,953,200, while the total recurrent expenditure was put at N97,608,280,660 and capital expenditure, N119,136,932,600.

The Governor appealed to the legislators to give accelerated hearing to the budget so as to be passed

into law in no distant time.

He also urged the people of the state to give maximum support to his administration for the implementation of all his programmes for the state.

In his remarks, the Speaker of the House,

Hon. Najeem Salaam assured that the House would ensure speedy hearing on the bill, even as he assured the Governor of the support of the legislators in the administration of the state.

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PRESENTATION: Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko (right), presenting the Budget 2014 to the Deputy Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Dare Emiola, at the Ondo State House of Assembly, on Tuesday.

erate the state from “governance by deceit.”

Adeyeye, in his New Year message to the people, said he was committed to serving the people and making life more meaningful for the down-trodden, promising that he would continue to offer selfless services to the state.

The governorship aspirant, who is known as the Prince of Hope, said: “I wish to congratulate the entire people of Ekiti State for this brand new year that God has made possible for us to see.

“I also wish to urge our people, especially supporters of the

Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and our campaign organisation, Prince Adedayo Adeyeye Movement, PAAM, to remain calm, focused and keep hope alive in the New Year, because I am confident that the will of God will prevail on our dear state, Ekiti.”

Driver, 35, arraigned for killing 76-yr-old man, 2 others

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ANGO-OTA (OGUN) — A driver, Sokunbi Michael, who allegedly killed a woman, her son and a 76year-old man with his vehicle, yesterday, appeared before an Ota Magistrates’ Court in

Ogun.

Michael, 35, who resides at No. 21, Oduleye Street in Ota, Ogun State, is facing charges of manslaughter and reckless driving.

The Prosecutor, Rosemary Brown, alleged that the accused

drove an articulated vehicle recklessly and killed Oluwabunmi Fatoyinbo (35), her son, Emmanuel Fatoyinbo (7) and Sogunro Femi (76).

“Michael drove a Mercedes Benz 911 with registration No.

Osun PDP promises new life

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

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SOGBO — OSUN State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has promised the people of the state a new lease of life in the new year if voted into power in 2014 governorship election.

Chairman of the party in Osun State, Alhaji Gani

zIt’s LUTH’s —Commissioner

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

2014: Ekiti'll be liberated —Adeyeye FENIFERE CHIEFTAIN and Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship aspirant in Ekiti State, Prince Dayo Adeyeye has urged Ekiti people not to despair but keep hope alive in the New Year, describing year 2014 as the year God will put in place a government that will lib-

Ogun govt, PDP trade words over another demolition

Olaoluwa stated this in his new year message Alhaji Olaoluwa said the people of the state deserve the best in the new year, saying that it was only the PDP that can give them a new life ”as they have suffered in the last 38 months in the hands of the expired drug called APC.” The PDP chairman, who al-

leged that Osun State had been mortgaged with its high debt profile by the Aregbesola’s administration, warned financial institutions of any transaction with the Aregbesola administration.

According to him,”they will be doing so at their own risk as the days of Aregbesola are numbered.”

OG 123 AO9 recklessly and killed three people at Ijako on December 20,” the prosecutor told the court.

She said that the offences contravened the Federal Highway Act. The Magistrate, Alliu Soneye, in his ruling, granted the accused bail for N500,000 with two sureties in like sum.

Soneye said that one of the sureties must be civil servant in the employment of Ogun Government and must show evidence of tax clearance payment.

He said the sureties must be resident within the court’s jurisdiction, adding that police should also verify their addresses.

The magistrate adjourned the case to March 6.

BEOKUTA — THE Ogun State Government and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state, yesterday, traded words over another demolition exercise carried out at Ilepa axis of Ifo Local Government Area of the state.

The PDP in a statement issued by the state publicity Secretary, Waliu Oladipupo condemned what it called yet another round of demolition of property by the state government.

The party while reacting to the alleged demolition of 1,000 houses of about 15,000 population at Ilepa axis of Ifo Local Government Area, said it wondered why the government would choose to cause the people to weep on the eve of the New Year.

“The agents of destruction were accompanied by about 200 armed riot policemen with over 30 armoured vehicles, destroying people’s property.

“The party said it holds strongly to its views that the Amosun government lacks human face as it has brought untold hardship on the good people of Ogun State, destroying their properties without compensation. Besides, the heavily padded projects that they make so much noise about do not have any positive impact on the lives of the people.”

But, the state government has refused the claim that it demolished the people’s property in Ifo, saying, the property in contention belonged to Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH. The state Commissioner of Information, Yusuph Olaniyonu told Vanguard on phone yesterday that, the PDP should not put the blame on the door step of the state government rather, it should blame the Federal Government.

It is not the state government affairs, we are only helping them to enforce the law. We are helping the Federal government. It is the property of LUTH. “The land is two thousand hectares altogether, and 1,000 belong to the state,250 hectares belong to LUTH and 750 hectare of the land belong to the people of the community.

12—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

soon join Amaechi never made me Deputy Speaker I'll APC – Abe —OPARA C

BY BEN AGANDE

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battled to make him Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives in 2003.”

Reacting, Opara said that Amaechi’s statement was a “sign of ignorance on how parliamentary procedures work. It is unfortunate that a public officer of the status of a governor can make such careless statement of that magnitude. He was Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly. How can a member of the state House of Assembly make one a deputy speaker of the House of Representatives?

It is a sign of ignorance on how

parliamentary procedures work. Amaechi never made me deputy speaker, so the issue of betrayal does not even arise.

“Presiding officers of the National Assembly are elected on the floor of the Assembly by members. Amaechi was never a member of the National Assembly, so whatever role he claimed to have played, and he is the only one that knows, does not mean he made me deputy speaker. I know that Amaechi was one

of those who spoke to Peter Odili to support my aspiration.

Even at that, Odili has never claimed to have made me deputy speaker of the House of Representatives. It is unfortunate that a governor can make such a statement. Amaechi requires our prayers and sympathy. I say so, because former Governor Odili practically forced me out of the contest for the Rivers State governorship election in favour of Amaechi. Today, Amaechi is persecuting and prosecuting Odili,” he said.

BUJA—FORMER Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives, Mr. Austin Opara, yesterday, dismissed allegations by the governor of Rivers State, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, that the governor made him Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, noting that Amaechi’s claim was a manifestation of his ignorance of parliamentary procedures.

In an interview with journalists in Abuja, yesterday, Opara said if anybody had betrayed his benefactors, it was Amaechi "who betrayed Peter Odili and the people of Rivers State, who entrusted him with their votes."

Governor Amaechi had, during the convention of Ogbako Ikwere in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, alleged that he begged President Jonathan to make, Mr Nyeson Wike, minister and also made Mr Opara Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives.

He had said: “By the grace of God, I made Chief Opara, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. God used me.

Prominent politicians met me and told me that there cannot be two captains in a boat, if I make Opara Deputy Speaker, I might not be the political leader in Ikwerre, but I said I want FIRE: Some kids scavenging the ruins of a fire incident in which three children were burnt my people to benefit and I to death, in Ovwian in Delta State, yesterday. Photo: Akpokona Omafuaire. picked Opara’s name and we

A new era is born in Delta State A

NEW dawn has emerged in Delta State with the birth of a new nongovernmental organisation, NGO, to pilot the new wave of good governence and citizen’s collaboration for sustainable development.

The NGO, Delta Peoples Forum, DPF, represents the people of Delta State and is engaged in providing services that meet human, educational, environmental, and public safety needs with a specific focus on women, youth, children, widows and the lessprivileged. DPF was established in 2013 by concerned Deltans as a non-profit and non-governmental organisation.

It has the sole responsibility of bringing together bright minds in Delta State to champion a new cause for Delta State.

It will foster Deltans working together as one united people. This is a forum that will support every level of government with access to resources of good governance, research interests for infrastructural development, peace, security and restoring family values. The NGO started from

the vision of one man who has the interest of Deltans at heart.

DPF was officially launched on Friday, December 13, 2013, in Asaba as the group invited to the event the Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Peter Orubebe (CON), as Grand Patron because of his examplary attributes and exceptional role in building a new Delta State to champion the new cause. The opening event saw thousands of people coming out to air their views on how Delta State should be piloted in the next political dispensation. As was disclosed in the meeting, Elder Orubebe was made the grand patron because of his wealth of experience in mobilising and encouraging grassroots development in Delta State and the Niger Delta region for many decades.

The vision of DPF is that of a Delta, where people work and win together.

Vision Statement: Inclusive Delta State where the people take o w n e r s h i p .

Mission Statement: We will all work together, grow together, develop together and win together.

Core Values: Honesty and integrity; accountability and transparency; impartiality and justice;

commitment and cooperation; good governance.

Aims and Objectives: DPF has the following as some of its aims and objectives: 1. To work closely with international agencies in accountability by developing mechanisms to facilitate peaceful, safe and vibrant Niger Delta.

2. To respond and facilitate education programmes in both rural and urban areas of the region.

3. To restore family and community economics through income generating activities such as skill training as a tool to improve and empower their living standards.

4 . To encourage good community health care system through the prevention and eradication of traditional harmful practice best known as Female Genital Mutilation, FGM. 5. To respond to natural disasters as well as other humanitarian needs.

"After a very deep reflection and wide consultations

with top sectorial experts in the development community, we have created a key message and mantra for DPF. This mantra is about Deltans, the future of Deltans, the future of the excluded people in our communities but most importantly, it is of Deltans having a platform, a voice and vehicle to express themselves and take the leadership position in building a strong state as part of the cornerstone in realising the transformation agenda of our great leader, His Excellency, President Goodluck Jonathan.

"When we take this message to our communities with the planned activities for providing succor and empowering our people, it will be a new dawn for our people. A New dawn that heralds all that is good; a new dawn that heralds all that is beautiful, a new dawn that is all about our people, a new dawn that is all about change and the platform that will bring the change we all desire.

DPF… Deltans winning together," the group said.

HAIRMAN, Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), Senator Magnus Abe, has said he will soon join All Progressives Congress, APC, insisting that there was no provision in the constitution preventing him from doing so with the present turmoil in Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Speaking at Bori, headquarters of Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, during his third annual interactive session with youths from the seven local government areas that make up Rivers South-East senatorial district of the state, he said: “I am going to cross to APC. Even if it is only one senator that will cross from PDP to APC, you can go and write it down, Magnus Abe will be that senator. I will cross. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees freedom of association. It says if there is division in your political association, you can cross.”

The lawmaker said that the crisis rocking PDP, which led to the walk-out of some aggrieved members of the party and subsequent formation of a faction of the ruling party, justifies the decision to dump PDP for APC. “Everybody in Nigeria knows that there was a walkout during the convention of PDP and that resulted in the formation of a faction. That faction has now merged with APC. So, what am I doing in PDP when my faction is in APC? This country belongs to all of us. Nigerians must oppose this idea that once you hold power, it is your personal estate and you can do whatever you like.

“Have people not been crossing to PDP? How many governors have crossed from other parties to the PDP? Was Theodore Orji of Abia State not elected on the platform of another party? Is he not in PDP today? Did they hang him?

People have been crossing over to PDP, suddenly, you said, people cannot cross.

There can only be one rule for all Nigerians. That is how other countries make progress.”

Earlier in his remarks, Speaker of Rivers State Youth Parliament, Mr. Ijok Emmanuel, commended Senator Abe for all he had done for students and youths of Rivers South-East senatorial district since he was elected into the National Assembly.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014 — 13

Expect brighter days in 2014 —Oshiomhole

2015: Politicians in Delta urged to stop overheating polity

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

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ENIN—GOVERO R Ad-ams Oshiomhole of Edo State, has urged the people of the state to expect brighter days in 2014.

In a New Year message by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Peter Okhiria, the governor, said that the out gone year was one of peace, stability and tremendous progress in the socio-economic life of the state.

He said: “I congratulate the good people of Edo State, and indeed the entire people of Nigeria for seeing yet another year.

For us in Edo State, the out gone year was generally peaceful and was marked by growth in all sectors of the state.

“As we enter the New Year, I urge the people of Edo State to look forward to brighter days ahead. In addition to sustaining our efforts at developing and renewing infrastructure in the state, government has also beamed its focus on expanding the economy of the state; increasing the Gross Domestic Product and creating wealth. We expect our efforts to start yielding positive fruits in the New Year.

“I appeal to our people to remain vigilant in the New Year to ensure that evildoers are not given a free hand to operate in our state.

“I salute the good people of the state: our royal fathers, the professional groups, civil servants, student bodies, civil society groups, market women and the ordinary people in the streets, for standing by this administration in the out gone year.

“I also commend the Christian and Muslim communities, including people of other faiths in the state, for their prayers and for their peaceful and brotherly coexistence.

“I recognise the contributions of the security agencies in the maintenance of peace and security in the state in the out gone year. As we march together into the New Year 2014, I again count on the goodwill and support of all Edo sons and daughters to make our state a model for others to emulate.

"I wish you a happy and bountiful New Year and pray for God’s peace on you and your family,” he added.

BY AUSTIN OGWUDA

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NEW YEAR SHOPPING: Last minute shopping for New Year celebration at the Mile One Market, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, yesterday. Photo: Nwankpa Chijioke.

2015: Jonathan can’t deny one-term pact with North —NYAKO

BY SONI DANIEL, Regional Editor, North

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OVERNOR Murtala Nya ko of Adamawa State, yesterday, concurred with his Niger State counterpart, Muazu Aliyu Babangida, that President Goodluck Jonathan actually signed an agreement with them to serve for a single term of four years.

The governor, in an interview with Vanguard, said that the attempt by Jonathan to jettison the agreement he entered into with the northern political leaders, was responsible for the current political feud that led to the defection of some governors from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Nyako maintained that contrary to the claims by Jonathan’s aides that he did not enter into such a deal with the governors, Jonathan sealed the deal with them and pledged to abide by it.

Nyako pointed out that although he had his initial fears that Jonathan would not stand by the agreement after winning the 2011 election, former President

Obasanjo pleaded with them to sign the agreement and back Jonathan in the presidential election, which he eventually won.

The governor also said that the document, which was with the Niger State governor, as the Chairman of the Northern State Governors Forum, would be produced at the appropriate time to shame those still denying of its existence.

Nyako asked Jonathan to be a man of honour by respecting the agreement, so that Nigerians can continue to respect and stand by him.

Nyako said “We had an agreement with Jonathan for him to run only in 2011. Obasanjo assured us that Jonathan would only run for a term.

The agreement is with the Niger State governor and he can produce it.

“Jonathan should be a man of honour and stick to the agreement he signed with the northern governors. This country needs leaders, who are honest, so that they can

be trusted and respected,”he said.

According to him, Jonathan was number 73 on the list of those who signed the agreement and he cannot now turn round to deny what he validly endorsed.

“We all agreed based on the plea made to us by Obasanjo that the 2007 and 2011 presidency belonged to the North. Jonathan was number 73 as the deputy governor of Bayelsa State.

“So when they came and asked me to sign that he (Jonathan) had agreed that he would not contest the 2011 presidential election and I objected to it because he did not give his pledge to the agreement signed in 2003. They persisted and I signed.

“After that, the Niger State governor took the paper to Jonathan and he signed.

Obasanjo can confirm that he came here with Jonathan and pleaded with me to support Jonathan to contest the 2011 Presidential election."

NUPENG, PENGASSAN suspend strike

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ATIONAL Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN, yesterday, shelved its planned nationwide strike, scheduled to begin today.

The decision to suspend the strike, according to Mr Babatunde Ogun, President, PENGASSAN, is to allow for talks with officials of the ministries of Petroleum and Labourover the issue, scheduled to hold January 7, 2013.

NUPENG, on the other hand, according to its Secretary General, Mr.Elijah Okougbo, is yet to schedule a date for discussions

with government officials, but will not commence the strike action until it meets with officials of the Federal Government over the issue.

Ogun further stated that if the government does not back down, PENGASSAN may embark on the strike action which will commence by halting the loading of crude cargoes and a gradual shutdown of oil and gas production.

Both unions had, on December 17, threatened to embark on the strike over Federal Government’s decision to privatise the countries’ refineries.

Mr. Eddy Ossai, Deputy Presi-

dent, NUPENG, had stated that the unions would immediately convey to the congress of all the subsidiaries to be prepared for the showdown, if their demand to retract the statement and the decision to sell the refineries were not met.

He said: “We shall tell the government that NUPENG and PENGASSAN have the capacity to mobilise, and by the first week of January, if the government does not make a u-turn on the sales of the refineries, we shall not hesitate to start the strike.”

SABA—TWO prominent Deltans, a former Head of Service in the defunct Bendel State, Chief Patrick Onyeobi and former Presidential aide and Commissioner for Economic Planning in the state, Chief Clement Ofuani, have called on the political class, especially the opposition, to stop overheating the polity, which they said was not in the interest of the country.

Chief Onyeobi, in a statement to mark the New Year, said that politicians should not overheat the polity by their conduct, thus creating the impression that politics was synonymous with crisis.

He said: “Majority of our people just want to be left alone to continue to manage their poverty in peace.”

Ofuani also spoke in the same vein at his country home in UbuluOkiti, Delta State, saing: “What we have now is an extra-democratic means, which is not good enough for us as a country and people."

2015: DPF backs Ochei for Delta guber

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GROUP, Delta Patriotic Front, DPF, has thrown its weight behind Mr Victor Ochei to become the next governor of Delta State in 2015.

The group, in a statement, said: “We believe that Ochei fits the bill considering his achievements in running the state House of Assembly as Speaker, which has been the most peaceful in recent times.”

Spokesperson of the group, Mr. Wale Ajiboye, said: “The general opinion in Delta State as regards the 2015 election is for the governorship position to move to Delta North senatorial district, considering the fact that the other senatorial zones have produced governors in the past.

“Having assessed the present situation, we strongly believe that Ochei is the right man for the position."

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14—Vanguard , WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

Don’t sack Oduah, group begs Jonathan

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BY TAYE OBATERU

OS—AN appeal has gone to President Goodluck Jonathan to ignore calls to sack the Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah, unless her culpability in the bullet proof cars saga was established.

A group, the Igbo Democratic Forum, made the appeal in a statement in Jos, signed by its Chairman, Chief Chidi Ndu, saying it would amount to miscarriage of justice to take action against her without first establishing her guilt.

“We call on the President to resist the temptation of sacking the aviation minister on trumped up charges as it will further erode his political base and destroy one of his dependable ally and satisfy those traducers as they are all interested in what will assuage their desires which that is the downfall of the Presidency,” the group said.

Enugu traders lament low patronage

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NUGU—TRADERS in some markets in Enugu yesterday lamented the low patronage of their wares as many residents leave for their villages for the New Year holiday.

A survey of the markets by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) revealed that some of the traders had yet to record any sales as at noon while the market authorities had mandated the markets to close at 2 p.m.

Mr Emmanuel Ogbodo, a dealer on ladies materials at the Ogbete Main Market, said a few customers visited his shop but that none of them made a purchase.

Mrs Margaret Umeh, a foodstuff seller at the A r t i s a n Market, lamented that she had not made any sales since morning due to the mass exodus of the city dwellers to the villages.

Suspected hoodlums kill Elechi wife’s driver

BY PETER OKUTU BAKALIKI—EBONYI State police Command yesterday confirmed the alleged killing of a driver attached to the office of wife of the governor of Ebonyi State, Mr. Chika Umaha, 28, at Mkpuma Akpoka village in Izzi Local Government Area of the state..

The incident, which was reported by the accountant to the wife of the governor, Enwenyi Fidelis, of Edebigwe village, occurred at about 7:30 pm on December 28, 2013.

Speaking with Vanguard, the state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Chris Anyanwu, who stressed that the killing of the victim was not an act of assassination, stated that the victims’ vehicle was riddled with multiple bullets holes as no valuable was taken away by the hoodlums.

He said: “It happened on December 28, 2013, by 7:30 pm and was reported on the 29th, the person that reported the matter was the accountant attached to the wife of the governor, Mr. Enwenyi Fidelis of Edebigwe village in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

“He reported it to our Izzi division that the driver, Chika Umaha, 28, was shot by unknown hoodlums on December 28 by 7:30pm at

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Mkpuma Akpoka village in Izzi LGA. “On getting the report, our patrol team was dispatched immediately to the scene but unfortunately before they could reach the crime scene, the bandits had already escaped; the vehicle met at the scene was riddled with multiple bullet holes and the corpse of the victim was recovered and deposited at

the mortuary, while the vehicle was taken to the station.”

The police spokesperson stated that no arrest had so far been made in connection with the murder of the driver, adding that the police had begun a manhunt to fish out the suspected criminals.

“We have mounted an intensive manhunt to enable us apprehend the criminals.

Meanwhile, the case is still under investigation and no arrest has been made; I cannot precisely say that it is an act of assassination.

“As the people investigating the case come up with any clue as to whether it is an assassination or robbery, I will update you but for now, it is not an assassination because we know the ingredients that make up an assassination,” he said.

DECAMPING: From left: Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, Senator Ifeanyi Ararume and Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, national women leader, Mrs Kema Chikwe, during Senator Ararume’s return to PDP, at the party's office in Owerri, yesterday.

CONFAB: Elechi is on his own, says ex-Ebonyi PDP chairman

BY PETER OKUTU BAKALIKI—THE former state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP,

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Chief Obinna Ogba, yesterday condemned the comments allegedly made by Governor Martin Elechi of

Ebonyi State which opposed the proposed national conference scheduled to commence this year in the country.

Ogba, who made his stand

Cleric blames insecurity on politicians

BY VICTORIA OJEME BUJA—AHEAD of the 2015 general election, the Parish priest of St Donald Catholic Church, Rev Fr, Sam Tumba, has blamed politicians for security challenges in the country.

Fr Tumba made this known in a chat with Vanguard reporter yesterday in Abuja.

He said: “Security challenges have always been there, we have always gone through crises,

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people are always dying, people are dying not necessary as a result of insurgents, people are dying as a result of political differences, “The only thing that will change the situation is when we begin to think collectively and put our collective interest first not about what the other person is saying or else the security challenge will remain as long as we are not thinking collectively,

it is time our national interest takes precedent over our personal greed.

“Nigerians should continue to work for peace, collective responsibility, building bridges across the nation and across the region and we must avoid anything that will make us to be regional people but nationalist, we must be thinking Nigeria not state, local government, ethnic region.”

Obi, Ekwunife win people of the year award

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BY VINCENT UJUMADU

WKA—GOVERNOR Peter Obi of Anambra State and the member representing Anaocha/Njikoka/Dunukofia federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Mrs. Uche Ekwunife, have been named the most admired politicians for 2013 in Nigeria.

In a report released by the Diaspora Initiative for Good

Governance, DIGG, Akwa Ibom and Edo states governors, Mr. Godswil Akpabio and Adams Oshiohmole emerged outstanding politicians of 2013.

The coordinator of DIGG, Chief Doff Aikaiya, said the list was compiled after critical appraisal of the contributions of the people nominated,

adding that the group dwelt mainly on the opinion polls conducted across the country.

He said the choice of Obi and Ekwunife as the most admired politicians of 2013 was based on the contributions and silent developmental strides of the duo in their respective capacities as a state governor and a lawmaker.

He said: “In the case of Peter

known to newsmen at his hometown, Nkalagu, in Ishielu Local Government Area, distanced himself from the remarks made by the governor concerning the national conference when the state founding fathers paid him Christmas homage in Ikwo LGA of the state.

He noted that Chief Elechi was on his own, adding that the idea behind the constitution of the national conference was beyond all the governors in the 36 states of the federation.

He called on President Goodluck Jonathan to allow the wishes of the people to prevail over a few selected individuals who did not have the interest of the country at heart.

According to him, the stakeholders destroying the party in the state are those who decamped from APP, AD, ANPP to PDP. He added that there was no internal democracy within the party in the state as persons who aired their views concerning the activities of the government or mingled with party members who wanted a turnaround in the party were often times victimised by the party leadership.

15 Vanguard , WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

Last batch of 131 deportees arrive from Saudi Arabia A

BUJA—THE last batch of Nigerians being repatriated from Saudi Arabia yesterday arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja..

The Director, Consular and Immigration Service in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Abdulazeez Dan-Kano, told newsmen that the remaining 131 deportees out of 518 were transported home.

According to Dan-Kano, 51 of the deportees are from

Kano State, while 17 are from Borno, with 16 from Katsina State, and 11 from Yobe.

He said nine of the deportees were from Jigawa, six from Plateau, while Kaduna and Bauchi states had five and four deportees respectively.

The director said Edo had three deportees, while Nasarawa had two, with one deportee each from Kebbi, Ogun, Niger and Adamawa states.

Dan-Kano said all the

518 deportees arrived in the country in six batches between December 25 and December 31.

He appealed to Nigerians still hiding in slums in Saudi Arabia to embrace the benevolence of the Federal Government and return home to avoid the wrath of the Saudi authorities.

Dan-Kano said the Nigerian Embassy in Saudi Arabia had since begun sensitisation

campaign on the need for proper documentation of Nigerians who were legally resident in the country.

He said that most of the deportees were Nigerians who travelled to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, but stayed back at the end of the exercise in search of “greener pastures.”

The director said the affected Nigerians had requested government’s assistance to facilitate their return home.

Ize-Iyamu emerges Benin politician of the decade

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

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ENIN CITY— FORMER ViceChairman, South South of All Progressives Congress, APC, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, yesterday, emerged winner of the Silverbird Communications Benin Politician of the Decade Award.

The Business Manager of the station, Mr. Macdonald PeterAyangbe, said the award was the station’s

contribution to the task of strengthening the country’s democracy.

He noted that the competition which was coordinated by the Global Mobile Communication System, was “ very transparent,” because according to him, “voters voted independently and that led to the emergence of Pastor Ize-Iyamu as the Benin Politician of the decade.”

The occasion was attended by top APC leaders in the state, palace chiefs, members of the Edo State Executive Council and the chairmen of local government areas in the state.

Expressing his gratitude to Silverbird and those who voted for him during the nomination, Ize-Iyamu dedicated the award to God Almighty, whom according to him, stimulated his political career, academic pursuits as well as needs of his immediate family.

Ekweremadu pledges to attract more projects to Enugu West

BY TONYEDIKE

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NUGU—THE Deputy Senate President, Chief Ike Ekweremadu, has assured the people of Ugbo and the entire Enugu West senatorial district that he would continue to sustain the good relationship that existed between them.

He also promised to work harder to attract more developmental projects to his senatorial district in 2014.

He made the statement at his country home at Mpu, Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, when the people of Ugbo paid him a Christmas visit.

Ekweremadu also assured the people that nobody could distract him from his well focused agenda of improving the lives of his constituents and Nigerians at large, adding that his aim in politics was to take his people to a higher level.

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16 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

FG 'll reduce fish importation by 2015 — Minister

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OKOJA—MINISTER of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, yesterday, said that government planned to reduce fish importation by 2015.

Adesina gave this indication at the distribution of fishing equipment under the Artisan Growth Enhancement Support Scheme and AcquaCulture project at Ganaja Riverside in Lokoja.

Represented by Mr Dare Arotiba, the Coordinator of the Agricultural Transformation Agenda in the state, the minister said the items were being given to farmers at 50 per cent subsidy.

He said that the gesture was aimed at boosting fish production and meet local consumption.

He said: “The Federal Government has decided to reduce fish importation into the country to the barest minimum by 2015.

“The distribution of equipment will be extended to fish farmers in riverine states across the country."

FMC laments inadequate space

BY FAVOUR NNABUGWU

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HE management of the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, Nasarawa State has cried out to the federal and state governments to assist it with 50 hectares of land to enable the hospital expand its various department.

Chief Medical Director of the FMC, Dr. Joshua Ndom Giyan, said yesterday that the hospital needed 50 hectares of land to equate the hospital with its state-of-art equipment and the facilities at its disposal.

Giyan said the hospital had facilities that best befitted a Federal Government medical centre but had a constraint of space to separate the various department and their facilities and be able to attend to patients more conveniently and deliver service promptly.

According to him, “our major challenge is land. We need about 50 hectares of land.

What we presently occupy is 10 hectares of land that is presently too small for our expansion and facilities.

"We are already talking to Nasarawa state government about it. The host government has promise do do something about it.”

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Senators Saraki, Abe set to defect to APC

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU & JOSEPH ERUNKE

He said: “Today, the consequences of the retrogressive and repressive policies of this PDP BUJA—SENATOR Bukola government by commission or Saraki, yesterday, formally omission has inadvertently created declared his defection from the a broader space for the emergence Peoples Democratic Party, PDP to of an effective opposition - a key the opposition All Progressives ingredient of a vibrant democracy.

Congress, APC. A pointer to this is the conditions Saraki, who represents Kwara that have lead to the near tsunamilike exodus from PDP to APC. “I have always believed that our democracy must be built on a party politics of inclusiveness, politics that is embraced by all Nigeriansnot some Nigerians. For some of us, it is non-negotiable that our politics must be one based on the rule of law, morality, principles of public trust and fairness, and most importantly delivering policies that transform the lives of the people we serve."

He added: “For most of us, it was no longer viable to expect the barest minimum for the people of Nigeria under the PDP. It became inexplicable to promote democracy within a party where these principles and issues must be entrenched, hence, the resolve of the tectonic shift in our political VISIT—From left: Nigeria’s Ambassador to China, Ambassador Aminu Wali, Vice President base.

Mohammed Namadi Sambo, PDP National Youth Leader, Abdullahi Hussaini and Acting “This is the premise on which Chairman, Kaduna State PDP Alhaji Haruna during a visit by Kano State PDP stakeholders some of us in 2013 left PDP and to the Vice President in Kaduna, yesterday. Photo: State House. has since joined APC. This decision though hard was made inevitable by what we saw as the irreconcilable division in the PDP - a party that lacked any semblance of internal democracy; a party that

BY ABDULSALAM MOAliyu, who picked holes in en state as Jigawa, said it was a acted with impunity; a party that HAMMED charges fixed for aspirant as clever attempt to dupe aspirants did not deliver for the people and outrageous in a poverty-strick- of their hard earned wealth. the country; and a party that threatened to return our country to ANO—ALL Progressives Con authoritarianism. Our decision to gress, APC, yesterday anleave was one borne out of the nounced plan to boycott election desire to say no to military in 19 local government areas of Jidemocracy and say yes to gawa State during the forthcomrepresentative democracy.” ing council poll officially slated for He said his defection and those

BY OKEY NDIRIBE lions of naira.

January 18. he simply referred to concerned It was also learnt that the Addressing newsmen, the parNigerians to APC, was a sign that closure of the airport was nety’s National Leader, Alhaji Farouk OLLOWING tense secu cessitated by extensive dam- the “dream of an effective Adamu Aliyu, explained that APC rity situation in Borno age inflicted on some of NA- opposition has been born in the would, however, field candidates State, only military aircraft MA’s equipment by the in- country, heralding the hope of a in about eight councils, including can land or take off from the surgents. new dawn on the Nigeria political Dutse, Birnin Kudu, Miga, Ring- Maiduguri Airport until It was gathered that some terrain where the wealth of the im, Kiyawa , Hadejia, Jahun and March 2014. of the equipment damaged Nation would be shared equitably Kazaure. among all Nigerians.”

It was learnt that already, were electricity generators.

Farouk, who was former mem- the Military High Command Senator Abe on his part during As a result of the invasion, ber of House of Representatives, has ordered closure of the military authorities and the an interactive session with disclosed that the party would fur- airport to civil aircraft until Borno State government im- newsmen in Port-Harcourt ther contest councillorship seats in further notice. posed a 24-hour curfew on disclosed that he was set to defect about five wards across the state. to the APC upon what he claimed This followed the recent the city and its environs.

He added that the decision to invasion of the Maiduguri The attack also forced the was the crisis in the ruling party. boycott the election was due largely Airforce Base-located close Federal Airports Authority of Abe said: “I am going to cross to to no other reasons than the fact to the airport-by insurgents Nigeria, FAAN, to shut the the APC; even if it means that it is that it would not be competitive. belonging to the Boko Har- Maiduguri Airport, thereby only one senator that will defect, Aliyu said: “You don’t invest in am Islamic sect. leading to airlines cancelling Magnus Abe will be that senator. an exercise with a predetermined “The Constitution of the Federal It would be recalled that flights to the city. end, and going by the precedents the Borno State capital, was Sources close to the Niger- Republic of Nigeria guarantees set by various state Independent on December 2 attacked by ia Airspace Management freedom of association. It says if Electoral Commissions, you cer- Boko Haram insurgents, Agency, NAMA, disclosed there is division in your political tainly don’t expect my state to be leading to the death of two that a Notice to Airmen, association, you can cross." different.

Noting that his defection would military personnel and mem- NOTAM, had already been “We shall concentrate our re- bers of the sect. not be the first, he said: “Have disseminated to relevant ausources and energy on just eight Also damaged during the thorities, airlines and pilots people not been crossing over to councils and ensure that people’s siege were three disused operating in the country, in- the PDP? How many governors vote count without let or hin- military aircraft, two helicop- forming them about the de- have crossed from other parties to drance,” he said. the PDP? ters and property worth mil- velopment.

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Central, in the upper legislative chamber, made the declaration in his New Year message in which he described himself as an APC senator.

Also yesterday, Senator Magnus Abe from Rivers State stated his readiness to decamp from the PDP to the APC. The two are the first senators to

openly declare for the APC. Saraki in his New Year message urged Nigerians to reflect on the consequences of the retrogressive and repressive policies of the PDP government in 2013 by joining him and others who had left the party to APC in the actualization of new hope for the country.

....APC to boycott election in 19 Jigawa LGs

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'Only military aircraft can land in Maiduguri airport'

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Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014 —17 “Does a man not know if he has pepper in his eyes? If we forget today, how shall we remember tomorrow?”

Nigerian Proverb.

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2014 2014 and 2015, the PDP will face the possibility of extreme marginalisation, extinction or a resurgence that will set world records. The full damage to its spread and popularity will not be known until after issues over the legality of defected governors and legislators are made clearer. The party will continue to lose grounds in much of the North, and more politicians are likely to leave it if they perceive that a Jonathan candidature will be punished in the region by voters.

The party will dig deep into its experiences in manipulating critical

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HE year 2014 will be significant in determining the future of Nigeria’s democracy and key elements of our national existence. Much of the political re-alignments going on, the turmoil within the PDP and the key issues that will influence the outcome of the 2015 elections will be played out in 2014.

President Goodluck Jonathan’s position in relation to 2015 will no longer be a guessing game, and whatever he decides will be critical to political developments and the fate of the electoral process. The opposition will have to take decisions that will make or mar its chances of defeating the PDP and replacing it as the dominant party.

Management of the economy and national security will be major campaign issues, and the proposed National Conference will expose the weak links in the nation’s chain. INEC will be closely monitored to see whether it will raise its levels of performance in 2015, or plunge the nation into another crisis following widely-disputed elections.

President Jonathan will limp into the year 2014 from a bruising exchange with President Obasanjo which has left both of them the poorer in terms of personal integrity and leadership qualities.

President Jonathan has lost on points to a former President who has made a career of sorts in punching leaders when and where they are most vulnerable. The most damaging blows Obasanjo delivered were around President Jonathan’s perceived ambition to run as a PDP candidate in 2015. Tried as he did, Jonathan has not successfully parried the assault on his moral credentials to be another candidate which Obasanjo built upon, following grievances from northern PDP politicians that he has dishonoured his promises.

The PDP is already reflecting the fallouts from the quarrels over Jonathan’s ambition, and showing gaping holes in some of its strongholds in the North and the South South.

In 2014, President Jonathan may literally be compelled to declare his interest to run in 2015, because the option not to run could be more damaging to his interest. He would be seen as chickening out of the challenge of taking on northern “born-to-rules”; the Obasanjos and a motley crowd raising alarm that the democratic process and national security will be threatened if his candidature compromises the electoral process. If he does run, it will be on the platform of a radically different PDP, the current one heaving gone through much damage and turmoil. In

part because of the flooding of the APC

by PDP defectors. It will have to resolve deep internal problems within its legacy parties and between them and the new entrants from the PDP who have expectations that may not be easily met.

It has to handle issues of party leadership and the emergence of candidates with extreme caution and sensitivity, so that these do not constitute major impediments. It will need to watch its back against the PDP (itself with its back against the wall, but still capable of much mischief); against fifth columnists and politicians with

In 2014, the nation will prepare to elect good leaders in early 2015. If it does not get it right this time, it may not get the opportunity to do so again

political muscle and support, including ethno-religions sentiments, and this will provide it with some islands of resistance against voter hostility and a resurgent opposition. The PDP will also intensify building sympathy and support for a Jonathan candidature in 2015 in the South South and parts of the South East; but on the whole, it is likely to find that ethnicity as an electoral factor has eaten deeper than it thinks. With a poor record in managing the national economy, handling a stubborn insurgency and managing other internal security challenges and crimes; a weak will to fight corruption and a general perception that the nation needs a stronger and a more unifying political leadership, President Jonathan will find it hard to win an election in 2015 on his performance alone.

The opposition can make his chances easier or more difficult by the manner it handles its opportunities and challenges. In 2014, it will have to clearly define how it differs from the PDP, in

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ambitions and warchests that outweigh their respect for the party; and against complacency and incompetence in building strong, national structures.

In 2014, INEC will have to plan and organise the 2015 elections under the most challenging circumstances. It is likely to get most of what it asks for in terms of funding, but critical scrutiny of all its preparations will keep it on the defensive. It will need to look very closely at its voters’ register and the integrity of its own personnel. By now, it should have registered on INEC that for every one politician who wants a fair and level playing field from INEC, there are ten or more who are willing and able to subvert it. INEC will be at the mercy of a PDP long used to finding ways around all its weak points, and a much bigger opposition that will yield it very little ground in trust and faith.

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n 2014, the lines will be drawn largely around a two-party battle in the 2015 elections. Camps will be built

around ethno-religious sentiments; massive inducements funded by state resources; actual and threatened violence, tall ambitions and high expectations that earth-shaking results will be recorded in 2015. All eyes and energies will be focussed on 2015 elections. So management of the national economy will suffer. The insurgency in the north-eastern part of the country may capitalise on preoccupation with elections to dig in and sustain its fight. Poverty, unemployment and drugs particularly among youth will be used to lure them as foot soldiers in violent election campaigns.

The planned National Conference in 2014 will either be an anti-climax or a dangerous addition to the cauldron. If President Jonathan meets much resistance in facilitating a forum with some bite and legitimacy, he will end up with a collection of Nigerians who will debate issues, cost N7b and produce nothing of value. If however, he insists on creating a forum that will have a semblance of credibility, and he throws into its ring issues such as tenure review, resource allocation, state creation and the legal system, then he will raise tensions and stresses that could threaten the 2014 elections. Either way, Nigerians will watch the National Conference as if the nation’s life depends on it, which, in a sense, it does. Unless it is handled with responsibility and concern for the future of the nation, the National Conference could seriously affect the environment in which the 2015 elections will hold. These elections cannot be postponed or manipulated without plunging the nation into serious and prolonged crisis.

In 2014, the nation will celebrate 100 years of existence. In a century, Nigeria went from one of Britain’s largest colonies to one of the most endowed and promising African countries. The nation spent the last half century in efforts to build a nation out of massive inherent and contrived challenges. It failed to do this due to the absence of a leadership that will provide a rallying point to mobilise its huge human and natural resources in building a united country with a strong economy. Ironically, our democratic process, far from producing inspirational and uniting leadership the nation needs, has become a major liability. In June 2014, Nigeria will participate in the World Cup. This will provide one of those rare moments when we are only Nigerians. In 2014, the nation will prepare to elect good leaders in early 2015. If it does not get it right this time, it may not get the opportunity to do so again.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

OPINION

BY FUNMI IYANDA

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HE thing about age is, it is catching. It’s like a hysterical jester lying in wait for the fool.

I want to tell you about Mrs. Okoro. Before l turned nine, school was a vaguely irritating distraction from the pursuit of happiness in play and adventure. Every school day, I’d wear my red checked dress and burgundy beret uniform and passively submit to school. l was not a rebellious child. I was a bored child who daydreamed through classes until lunch when the school served asaro and chicken with bananas and ground nuts as snacks. That was until l got to Mrs. Okoro’s class.

Mrs. Okoro made letters become words, words which became stories, stories which became my life. I loved her dearly, perhaps it was transference as l’d recently lost my mother but at nine, l started going to school because she was there. One day walking out the gates after school, l saw Mrs. Okoro getting into a bus ahead of me so l ran across the road to get into the same bus.

I didn’t bother checking for traffic. The next thing l remember is thinking heaven looked rather like Akoka road. I had been hit by a car and was staring up at the concerned faces of Mrs. Okoro and others. The driver was distraught; he was a student at Unilag and in the moment before pain cut through my adrenalin, l remember being happy l had been hit by a grand university student not some infernal danfo bus driver.

He took me to the university health centre where the C M Y K

Letter to a new generation nurses gave me a large cone of ice cream to comfort me before treating me and putting me in the big university bus home. My heart was swollen with pride as the shiny big bus drove down our dirt street in Bariga. Not a dime was exchanged, no one called my father at work, there were no mobile phones and we had no phone at home. There was no need; the system took care of me. It was Nigeria 1980.

Recently, on my way out of Nigeria, the Murtala Mohammed airport was thrown into chaos, people were sweating and swearing, passengers stranded as all electronic equipment had stopped working. The place stank because there was no water to clean the toilets. I watched the white airline crew walk by with barely contained derision as they gingerly sidestepped the mess. The problem wasn’t that there was no electricity at the airport, that’s normal; it was that someone had not supplied the diesel to run one of the generators.

I sat in a corner, observing people; those who fascinated me most were the band of men, mid thirties to late forties, Nigeria’s emerging business and political elite. I recognised them by their Louis Vuitton luggage, logo jacket and velvet slippers, disguising their social anxiety with an unabated desire for the pointless. Seemingly oblivious to their environment,

they strutted about backslapping and rolling their 'rs', being cocky, rude and dismissive to everyone.

What struck me most about these preening peacocks though, was their total lack of shame at the state of things. They are the band of new-Africa-rising, proudly Nigerian jingoists, living in a glass bubble as far removed from the Nigerian reality as you can get. For them patriotism is not a recognition of failure and a determination to redress it, but a slogan to be worn, tweeted or liked.

Later on, crammed into a rather unsanitary first class lounge, I watched them posturing for furtive young female travelling companions, clearly under instructions to pretend not to know them. The odd thing is that these are no corn farmers made good from my native Ida ogun, these lounge dwellers are very well educated and uncommonly well travelled Nigerians.

A defective fraction of the immense amount of brainpower and knowledge Nigeria has produced.

They help prevent their peers fulfilling their potential and a pool of brilliant thinkers, explorers, scientists, innovators and artists is lost, squandered by a nation that strangulates its best.

Continues tomorrow on the Viewpoints pg •Being excerpts of a keynote address delivered at the ThinkOyo 30under30 Awards on 21/12/13.

18 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014 NIGERIA came into being today, 100 years ago, when British colonialists merged two administrative entities –Northern Protectorate and South Protectorate. The journey since then has witnessed many landmarks among them the Civil War of 1967-1970.

Over the years, Nigerians have sharply criticised the merger. They blame it for most of the country’s woes. Debates about Nigeria hardly run a full course. They are a catalogue of lamentations. Supply of ideas to improve the country is in deficit.

Celebrations would last throughout the year.

The centenary would be incomplete without attention shifting between blaming leaders and the British for Nigeria’s parlous state.

Some still question the desirability of the union.

Leadership has stalled Nigeria’s development, whether under civilians or the military.

Last October, 12 senators, on a motion on Nigeria’s 53rd independence anniversary, expressed their regrets about Nigeria lagging behind Malaysia and Brazil, which they called its “contemporaries”. The bases for the comparisons were emotional contraptions about promises Nigeria held at independence. In the centenary, the complaints

Where W e Are A 00 We Att 1 100 would be louder. We hope that actions that would minimise intractable federalism, jumbo-sized corruption, and legislators who think only about their welfare, would be part of the agenda to chart a new path for Nigeria at 100.

Ethnicity is on the ascendency again. Nigeria is celebrating absence of competitiveness, its interpretation of federalism. Believers in regional governments as the answer to the nation’s challenges have not considered the quality of leadership. We share resources without a care about producing them. We have skewed federalism to creation of new injustices through quota in all spheres and most regrettably in schools admissions.

Malaysia, Brazil and Singapore with whom some tend to compare Nigeria, grew on competitiveness and provision of basic infrastructure that improve the standards of living. Leadership that stiffled the country in the past 100 years has not changed much.

Politicians think everything is about them. If they are able to gain political power at their aspired levels, Nigeria is making progress.

Where they fail, they stand against everything governments are doing unless they attain their ambition.

Many who fail to gain current leadership space do not appreciate their failure in past roles as local government officials, security officers, governors, ministers or commissioners in the States and various federal agencies. They have no qualms joining the lamentations on Nigeria’s poor leadership.

The centenary should be the profound year for Nigeria’s future. The National Dialogue is a great platform on which to address Nigeria’s challenges.

A guide to re-building Nigeria could be to establish the centrality of Section 14 2b of the 1999 Constitution, “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” to good governance.

OPINION

BY ADEWALE KUPOLUYI

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ANY things are wrong with our country. Lawlessness, impunity and free-for-all have gradually become the norm in this part of the world. It is now a daily occurrence to hear of cases of rape, kidnapping, armed robbery and other serious crimes happening without much fuss.

That is what has played out a few days ago when an online video clip of two women was released to the public. The victims were given jungle justice because they were said to have stolen pepper. Despite their plea and agony, they were severely tortured and made to kneel down before being severely flogged, as they rolled on the ground, in an attempt by the men to forcefully make them confess to committing the crime. The attackers, who decided to take laws into their hands, were also said to have forcefully inserted various objects into the women’s private parts after bathing them with pepper!

Already, the human rights group, Women Arise for Change Initiative has petitioned the Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Adeyemi Ikuforiji, over the attacks. President of Women Arise, Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin, handed the petition to the House of Assembly after a rally organized by the group, to seeking redress for the jungle justice, which reportedly took place in Ejigbo, Lagos State.

This ugly incident has brought to the fore, key issues that are worth considering here: Why do we daily experience escalating violence against

The Ejigbo jungle justice women? Why do people rejoice when others are perverting injustice against their fellow human beings? Why are our law enforcement agencies nowhere to be found in critical periods when there is need to rescue victims of jungle justice?

Why have we not been apprehending and punishing those found to have committed such atrocities? Why are cases of violence against women underreported?

While it may not be easy to give answers to all the questions raised, what is certain is that in any democratic society like ours, it is the constitutional duty of the government to protect women from violence, going by the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women, which Nigeria ratified in 1985, which provides that governments should be obliged at ensuring that its agents and officials do not commit violence against women, while protecting them from violence committed by private persons and groups.

Over the years, very little attention has been paid to fulfilling this very important obligation. The aftermath is the vulnerability of the womenfolk in facing serious barriers in accessing justice as well as seeking redress for gender-based crimes committed against them, although women too could be violent in relationships with men. However, the overwhelming burden of gender-based and intimate partner violence is inflicted against women by men.

Because of the nature of the society that we live in, surviving female victims prefer to remain silent in the sense that the current system does not protect them and insulate them from abuse. Just like the case at hand, if not for Women Arise, which exposed the Ejigbo assault, which was said to have happened over six months ago! How would we ever have known of this particular case? Hence, keeping silence is a major reason why cases of rape and sexual exploitation of women have continued unabated till date.

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nother source of concern is the attitude of the people to violence against women. For instance, the attackers shown in the video were mostly men and while this barbaric act was being committed, bystanders, who should have alerted the police, were rather seen jeering at the poor women, as they reportedly booed them and took the victims’ photographs using cellphones.

Just like previous episodes before now, the suspects responsible for these crimes are never apprehended. They’ll rather walk away, knowing full well that their actions will be met with little or no sanction. This impunity indeed remains a great moral puzzle.

If this trend is allowed to continue, the rights of our daughters, girls and women in the society will become completely eroded. The way things are, these crop of people are greatly maligned,

traumatized and subverted such that they are made to be under-productive to national development.

A report by the United States of America’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based and Intimate Partner Violence, observed that “gender-based and intimate partner violence cuts across ethnic, racial, socio-economic, and religious lines, and knows no borders.

It occurs in Nigeria, the United States, and every other nation. An estimated one in three women worldwide has been beaten, coerced into sex, or otherwise abused in her lifetime, with intimate partner violence as the most common form. This means that most of us know a victim of this violence or even have been victimized yourself ”.

As a way forward, a lot rests on our legislators – both at the national and international levels – to put in place, the enabling laws that will discourage the continued violence against our womenfolk. That is where the assurance by the Senate President, David Mark, that the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Bill will be passed speedily into law, as part of measures to stop domestic violence and harmful practices against Nigerian women.

The bill seeks to remove violence in private and public life, prohibit all forms of violence, discrimination and provide maximum protection and remedies for victims as well as recommending punishment for offenders.

*Mr. Kupoluyi wrote from Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARRY 1, 2014— —19

, A government’s anti-people policy T'S the first day of January and it’s only proper to wish Nigerians a happy New Year with hopes and prayers that 2014 ends on a note of great joy and prosperity for us all. We pray it is a year in which the Nigerian Dream takes on the colour of reality. But the Goodluck Jonathan government ended 2013 with its illdigested approach to revenue generation and overall development of the country. Only those who stand to benefit from it can explain the rationale for raising tariff on imported second hand vehicles popularly called tokunbo to 70%, up from 20%. For a country without a car manufacturing industry of its own that could be said to need such protective measures as might be provided by such increase, one wonders who stands to gain from this new tariff regime. The only conclusion open to one is to see the tariff increment as further proof of this administration’s determination to impoverish poor Nigerians that are already struggling to stay alive amid the ravages of its economic and social policies.

Since the mid 1980s when the military government of Ibrahim Babangida chose to follow the

belt-tightening path of ‘structural adjustment’, Nigeria has become a huge market for second hand goods, ranging from vehicles, computers and household appliances like television, iron and refrigerators. The Shagari administration might have brought ‘austerity measures’ into our national lexicon but it was the Babangida regime that gave practical expression to the word.

Thus, second hand goods, especially cars, have been a fact of national existence from the mid 1980s. They were the saving grace of middle class Nigerians who discovered they could no longer afford brand new items like their counterparts in the preceding decade. Of course, second hand clothing had been with us for far longer period. Indeed, it was one of the items the Awolowo-led Unity Party of Nigeria vowed to ban as part of its plan to raise the quality of Nigerian life. Not only have second hand clothes remained with us, we have since expanded the second hand market to include cars and household appliances.

This was inescapable in the face of government’s abdication of it role in the life of Nigerians.

Nigerian households are local governments in their own right.

BY SUNDAY JOHN

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ECENTLY the Federal government announced a commendable automotive policy aimed at developing a local automobile industry which will put Nigeria in the committee of automobile producing countries. Joining that league of nations will eventually lead to a drastic reduction, if not outright prohibition, in importation of second hand vehicles popularly known as tokunbo. As commendable as the policy is, it has characteristically drawn suspicion and cynicism from some quarters; characteristically because most government policies and programs, irrespective of their good intentions, are usually received with caution and suspicion by one section of the citizenry or the other.

It is often suspected that such policies will constitute another burden and further impoverish already distressed citizenry.

Whose fault is it, by the way? In a country that is bedeviled with policies without implementation, and where the common man is always the sacrificial lamb of most economic measures, you can’t expect less.

Worse still, those in power have over the years created the impression that only the ordinary man bears the brunt of the country’s economic woes. One can therefore argue that second hand vehicles have come to the rescue of the common man over the years. While the political office holders, whose monthly salaries and allowances defy all economic rationalisations of the present day, compete for private jets and latest limousines, the ordinary Nigerians find solace in tokunbo vehicles. That Nigeria records one of the fastest growing middle class in Africa today is as a result of the availability and affordability of second hand vehicles. Hence one of the criteria for assessing middle class is the ownership of a

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They ’ve taken over municipal responsibilities for which the third tier of government exists. They clear their own refuse and dump them into storm drains; provide their own electricity with generators of different sizes that pollute the environment, dig wells and drill boreholes that damage the earth crust. In spite of all this, they are saddled with multiple taxes for the very services they provide for themselves. We have neither motorable roads nor a cogent traffic policy. We have no public transport system beyond the ad-hoc arrangements government puts in place in the wake of periodic upheavals that follow removal of so-called oil subsidy.

Then would government promise to provide buses, which are invariably refurbished second hand vehicles disguised as new, to meet the transport needs of commuters. The vast majority of vehicles on Nigerian roads belong in junkyards for sure. But without the few second hand ones that are still roadworthy, Nigerians would be no better than Fulani herdsmen criss crossing the country on foot.

G

iven this deplorable picture of our public transport

What if tokunbo is banned car, it is obvious that many who belong to that class today would not have been there without tokunbo.

But that is as far as the argument goes. We cannot sacrifice our tomorrow for today, nor allow the smoke screen of crass opportunism, primitive aggrandizement and brazen looting of the treasury by the political class to blindfold us to what is right.

So I think Olusegun Aganga, the Minister for Trade and Investments was unnecessarily apologetic when he tried to allay the fears of cynics on the future of importation of second hand vehicles into the country. He said that the Federal Government did not intend to ban the importation of second hand vehicles by initiating the automotive policy. A responsive and responsible government, you may say. But that is the Achilles’ heel of our policy makers – lacking the will power to implement audacious policies that will bring Nigeria out of poverty and underdevelopment.

Whose fears was the minister allaying? Is it the fears of the young graduates who could not get jobs because there are no industries to employ them, and as a result, resorted to smuggling and selling of second hand vehicles? Is it our energetic youths whose country offers no hope because of lack of sound economic planning and they went to Europe and America to scavenge for junk vehicles and electronics? Is it the thousands of lives lost yearly on road accidents as a result of road unworthy vehicles and worn out tyres imported from abroad? Or is it the few selfish tokunbo dealers whose god is their belly? As usual, they will adduce all sorts of reasons why second hand vehicles should not be banned so that investors will be encouraged to invest in local production and/or assembling of vehicles.

The government, because of lack of will power, is usually hoodwinked by such selfish and shallow arguments that have robbed the country of pragmatic and enduring development policies and programs. These were the same reasons why some people objected to the banning of commercial motor cycle riders known as okada by some

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Government must take the lead in moving Nigerians to that future when they would be free from second hand goods

system, it is both criminal and wicked for any government to contemplate any increase in the price of imported second hand cars at this time. Such a move would only increase the misery of Nigerians, more of whom would have to join the rowdy crowds waiting for the decrepit buses at bus stations.

Previous administrations in this country have long recognised the importance of second hand vehicles among other used items imported from Europe and the Americas. They have put measures in place to control how these goods are brought into the country.

There were age limits which placed restrictions on importation of vehicles beyond certain age.

Without such restrictions our country would be a monster warehouse of unusable and environmentally dangerous goods.

We were heading in that direction just a short while back. We are not entirely back on the track of sanity yet. But that is not the reason for the latest increase in the tariff on used vehicles. To be sure, Nigeria and Nigerians must see the era of imported second hand goods as a passing phase, a stopgap measure for the present. But government must take the lead in moving Nigerians to that future when they would be free from second hand goods, a time they can become manufacturers of household items and goods including their own cars. Nigeria has however ignored the immediately expedient for the fashionable by embarking on the making of drones instead of cars.

One wonders how many Nigerians can be conveyed in drones in their daily struggles to keep body and soul together.

The present government is unprepared for a better Nigerian future. Thus, Nigerians know the imported second hand versions of many household goods or even vehicle accessories are far better

Today, our roads and streets are littered with unserviceable vehicles that pose serious dangers to road users, constitute environmental pollution and hideouts to miscreants

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state governments despite the nuisance they constituted to other road users, and numerous lives they were wasting. These were the same pedestrian and myopic reasons that destroyed the once vibrant textile industry. These are the same selfish reasons why PHCN workers resisted privatisation of the almost moribund company. Resistance to changes that can bring economic and social transformation has been our bane to national development.

Today, our roads and streets are littered with unserviceable vehicles that pose serious dangers to road users, constitute environmental pollution and hideouts to miscreants. If nothing is done about indiscriminate importation of second hand vehicles, most Nigerian roads and streets will be impassable in the near future. Packing space is a big problem today in most urban towns and cities. Nigeria has become a junk yard of second hand products.

No country develops which continues to play to the gallery in taking some hard

and more durable than so-called new ones that break down within days of purchasing them. The second hand market therefore thrives for very good reasons in spite of official attempts to kill it.

Nigerians know it is easier to get a second hand wrist watch or carburetor that lasts several years after purchase than brand new ones that can hardly survive a couple of months if not mere days.

A thinking government that is not out to punish the poor and struggling at the expense of the rich would not seek to raise tariffs on imported vehicles now. What it should do as a temporary measure is to ensure certain quality standards are met before such vehicles are allowed in. And if we must face the fact, the Jonathan administration has no justification to raise tariff on second hand vehicles at a time arms and agencies of the administration are protecting wealthy Nigerians and foreigners from paying necessary taxes on their billionaires’ lifestyle.

The Nigerian Senate only a couple of weeks days ago ordered the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, the same body that has been busy importing armoured luxury vehicles for Stella Oduah, its supervising minister and other officials- the Senate ordered NAMA to suspend charges of $2,500 to $3000 it placed on private jet owners following complaints by the jet operators. We are also aware of the indiscriminate manner officials and cronies of this government have been seeking and getting tariff waivers from the Finance Ministry for all kinds of imported luxury goods.

Poor Nigerians have neither private jets nor luxury goods for which waivers are needed. They only want to live decently even if on second hand goods. Is this asking too much of Jonathan in 2014?

economic and social policies, which in the immediate, may be difficult and unpopular, but which on the long run, will yield positive result. Banning the importation of second hand vehicles, and all other tokunbo products, may not be agreeable to some people at the beginning, but will eventually do good for the economy and our overall development as a nation. There is no viable vehicle manufacturing plant in Nigeria; most textile companies have turned to warehouses because of tokunbo this, tokunbo that. There is high level of unemployment because the companies that would have generated jobs have been driven out of business by second hand goods. Where are the Batas, the Lenards, the Michelins, the Odutolas, the Peugeots, Volkswagen of Nigeria (VON), etc?

The automobile industry in India, for instance, is one of the highest employers of labour. The vehicle manufacturers, component companies and dealerships together employ about one million people directly. Indirectly, the number is much bigger. According to statistics compiled by the Society for Indian Automobile Manufacturers, SIAM, directly and indirectly (including associated industries like banks, unorganised workforce like drivers and roadside mechanics and organised network like gas station staff) the automobile industry employs around 19 million people which comprises five percent of India’s total workforce. The economy of this world’s second most populous country (about 1.2 billion people) is buoyant because of vibrant local industry. India hardly imports anything except raw materials, let alone any second hand product. In fact, they have a policy of asking foreign companies to come and produce in India instead of exporting their products to the country.

•Sunday John is a Post Graduate student in Communication at Madras Christian College, Chennai (Madras) India.

20 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY,

C M Y K

JANUARY 1 , 2014

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014 — 21

US Coast guard revisits Nigeria to monitor ISPS implementation

BY GODWIN ORITSE

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FFICIALS of the United Sates Coast Guard are again in Nigeria to monitor the implementation of the International Ships and Ports Facility Security (ISPS) code.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on maritime matters, Mr. Leke Oyewole told Vanguard that the visit of the United States coast guard officials is a follow up to the two previous ones.

The officials, according to Oyewole, are to visit some facilities in the Eastern port particularly in Calabar, the Cross River state. Vanguard also gathered that the coast guard team will also review the checklist and processes of implementing the guidelines of the code with a view to correcting any abnormally should any one arises.

Besides monitoring the implementation of the ISPS code, the team will also inspect how drills are conducted by the Port Facility Officers of some of the terminals.

A source close to one of the Recognised Security Organisation disclosed that some of these facilities are yet to meet the proposed standard of security levels and arrangements in their terminals. It will be recalled that the United States government recently issued a 90day ultimatum to the Nigerian government requiring its Designated Authority (DA) for International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code implementation.

The issuance of the ultimatum brought the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), being appointed as the Designated Authority to ensure nationwide compliance to the code.

The ISPS Code was adopted by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and became mandatory for implementation by all contracting governments in July 2004.

The objective was to establish an international framework that would help ensure the global maritime domain was better secured from the threat of terrorism.

The code was to apply to vessels above 500 gross tonnage engaged in international voyage as well as the port facilities (PFs) that service them.

Nigeria, being a signatory to the IMO charter, was among the member states that ratified the code and thus set out to implement the code in order to ensure the nation’s compliance by the due date.

Consequently, the government of President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2004 inaugurated the Presidential Implementation Committee on Maritime Safety and Security (PICOMMS) to act as the country’s DA and to ensure the nation’s compliance as required by the ISPS Code. Nigeria was able to meet the deadline and was confirmed by the IMO as compliant that same year.

Treasurer, National Association of Nigerian Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters (NATBOWAT), Lagos Chapter, Mr. Akeem-Sekoni Balogun; Deputy National President, Dr. Joseph Meshileya; Managing Director/CEO, EAL Nigeria Limited, Mr. Chukwukere Onyirioha; Acting General Manager, Planning, Naval Dockyard Limited (NDL), Capt. Bolaji Orederu, and National President, NATBOWAT, Mr. Gani Sekoni-Balogun, during the visit of NATBOWAT delegation to NDL premises in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Operators list measures for attaining sugar master plan

By FRANKLIN ALLI

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PERATORS in the sugar sector of the country have articulated and tabled action plans for the realization of the Federal Government’s National Sugar Master Plan (NSMP) being driven by the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC).

At a forum-tagged ‘The Southern Region Sugar Forum,’ organised

by NSDC, in Akure, the Ondo state capital, the operators stressed that the federal and state governments and their representatives must demonstrate necessary commitment to the implementation of the National Sugar Master Plan (NSMP).

In a communiqué, the opeartors insisted that faithful implementation of the NSMP would not only ensure an end to sugar importation, but remained the key that would drive rural industrialisation, wealth creation, employment generation, foreign exchange income and savings, as well as production of bio-fuel and bio-electricity power, which are both critical needs for the country’s industrialization.

Hence, the stakeholders canvassed the replication of the policy implemented in the cement indus-

try “to enable aggressive implementation of the NSMP, to provide enabling environment for both cane growers and processors so as to increase the local sugar production capacity”.

The operators also sought the establishment of sugar processing mills nationwide so as to facilitate sugarcane production activities.

Further, they advocated for adequate and timely release of agro inputs as it is obtainable in well developed sugar producing nations, like Mauritius, adding that such would encourage out-growers involved in the Backward Integration Programme (BIP).

The operators also emphasized the need to educate farmers on the profitability of sugarcane farming so as to attract increased interest in it, even as they canvassed improved extension services so as to increase farmers’ access to required knowledge on the cultivation of industrial sugarcane.

In addition, they said NSDC should organise another forum targeting the commissioners of both agriculture and commerce and industry nationwide so as to ensure their commitment to the faithful implementation of the NSMP. They noted that the out-grower scheme is an integral part of NSMP implementation and there-

fore called on sugarcane farmers to replicate out-grower schemes in India, Pakistan, Kenya and Swaziland.

The participants also advocated for capacity development in the sugar industry, and appealed for the encouragement of young scientists, breeders and other professionals who desire a career in sugarcane farming.

-0.45

115.9 2,715.00

-70.00

16.41

-0.02

111.35 0.83 99.80 -0.52 CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL DOLLAR STERLING EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL KRONA SDR

154.7 254.7445 212.96 173.5278 1.4707 0.3042 236.9734 25.5196 41.2525 28.5372 239.0424

155.2 255.5678 213.6483 174.0886 1.4754 0.3142 237.7393 25.6025 41.3858 28.6294 239.815

SELLING 155.7 256.3912 214.3366 174.6495 1.4802 0.3242 238.5052 25.6854 41.5191 28.7216 240.5876

CBN Exchange rate as at 30/12/2013

22 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

BY ROSEMARY ONUOHA

Events that shaped 2013

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ear 2013 in the insurance sector saw the implementation of the ‘no premium, no cover ’ policy of the National Insurance Commission, NAICOM; enforcement of the International Financial Reporting Standard, IFRS; inauguration of the Insurance Industry Consultative Committee, IICC; introduction of the microinsurance guideline and so on.

Late submission of financial results characterised insurance sector in 2013 The insurance sector witnessed some positive developments in 2013. However, inadequate infrastructure continued to plague insurers all through the year which resulted in the late and zero submission of financial results by some companies to the National Insurance Commission and other regulatory bodies.

Inauguration of IICC

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No premium, no cover

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Implementation of IFRS

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n the course of the year, the International Financial Reporting Standard, IFRS, became operational in the insurance sector. Accordingly, all insurance companies were to submit their financial results

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Fola Daniel, Commissioner for Insurance

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t will be recalled that NAICOM had on January 1, warned that any underwriter that provides insurance cover without collecting the premium would be liable to a penalty of N500, 000 or lose its license.

According to the Commission, all insurance covers shall only be provided on a strict ‘no premium, no cover’ basis. It maintained that only cover for which payment has been received directly by the insurer or indirectly through a duly licensed insurance broker shall be recognised as income in the books of the insurer. NAICOM said any insurer who grants cover without having premium in advance or premium receipt notification from the relevant insurance broker shall be liable to a penalty of N500, 000 in respect of each cover so granted, and in addition, may be a ground for suspension of the license of the insurer. It said irrespective of period of insurance, insurers shall ensure that at any point they have received directly or indirectly, through the insurance broker the full premium in advance for cover being granted. NAICOM noted that all brokers should within 48 hours of receiving premiums on behalf of any insurer; notify the insurer in writing in each case of the receipt of such premium, adding that all such notification shall be accompanied by the broker’s credit notes, acknowledging indebtedness to the insurer.

With the implementation of the ‘no premium, no cover,’ mandate, business in the insurance sector dwindled considerable as both consumers and stakeholders waited with folded arms to see if the mandate will succeed.

NAICOM stated that it made series of efforts to ensure that insurance companies buy into the IFRS mandate but the indifferent attitude of these insurers frustrated all their efforts

attitude of these insurers frustrated all their efforts, stressing that insurers refused to be carried along by the Commission in the transition to IFRS. According to NAICOM, it took time to train insurance companies on IFRS but they still did not get it right when they started submitting their financial statements.

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using the IFRS format.

Unfortunately, the year has ended; some companies are yet to submit their 2012 financial results to the regulatory bodies while a few only got theirs approved at the tail end of the year.

Highly vexed by this development, NAICOM said that these insurance companies failed to reciprocate all efforts it made towards ensuring a smooth transition to IFRS by submitting poorly prepared 2012 financial statements.

NAICOM stated that it made series of efforts to ensure that insurance companies buy into the IFRS mandate but the indifferent

Sunday Thomas, NIA DG

lso in the course of the year, NAICOM inaugurated the Insurance Industry Consultative Committee, IICC, to fashion ways of returning the insurance industry to its rightful place as a catalyst for national economic growth and development.

According to the Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Fola Daniel, “The IICC is a body whose time has come. In line with the objective behind its establishment, the committee has been entrusted with the following mandate: To serve as a unifying voice for the industry; to represent the industry on national issues such as budget formulation; make input to national economic matters and any other issues affecting the industry; act as a body for resolution of intra and inter sector conflicts and take up and assume any other roles that will serve the best interest of the industry.”

Daniel urged the committee to take necessary steps towards uplifting the profile of the industry, improve public confidence in the profession and enhance the fortune of the industry.

Introduction of microinsurance operational guideline

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AICOM, within the year, introduced the operational guideline for microinsurance business in the country. According to NAICOM, the introduction will set the pace for qualified insurance personnel to float microinsurance firms which will serve the grassroots.

According to the Deputy Director, Authorisation and Policy, Mr. Leo Akah, microinsurance is not a conventional insurance that is expensive but affordable and to the reach of low income earners.

He noted that the industry had no choice than to embrace micro insurance in order to tackle low insurance penetration in the country.

Deputy Commissioner (Finance and Admin. Mr. George Onekhena said that the commission in 2014 will be focusing on deepening insurance penetration through microinsurance and takaful insurance and for that reason will need the input of all stakeholders.

Continuation of other reforms

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n the course of the year, NAICOM continued with other reforms to develop the insurance sector such as the enforcement of the anti-money laundering law, risk based supervision, market conduct, claims settlement reform; financial inclusion etc.

According to NAICOM, the various reforms taking place in the insurance sector are all geared towards developing the Nigerian insurance industry and improving the general perception of insurance.

However, for Managing Director of Linkage Assurance Plc, Mr. Gus Wiggle, the insurance industry grappled with inadequate infrastructure and unstable weather which exposed insured assets to natural disasters such as floods.

According to him, the performance of the industry within the year, was not sufficient for it to reach the critical mass necessary to make the desired impact on the economy.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 1, 2014 — 23

‘Life insurance companies perform better when on stand-alone basis’ STORIES BY ROSEMARY ONUOHA

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he Director General of the Nigerian Insurers Association, NIA, Mr. Sunday Thomas, has said that the best way for life insurance companies to thrive is to operate on a stand-alone basis rather than being in a composite setup.

According to Thomas, life insurance businesses rarely thrive in a composite company.

Thomas, who stated this in Ogun State, said that he is an advocate of the separation of life insurance business from general insurance business because life business thrive on long term fund which should not be merged with general business fund, which is short term.

According to Thomas, because of the nature of general business which is short term, composite insurers have a tendency to take money from life fund to settle claims emanating from general business which could hamper the performance of the life fund going forward.

Meanwhile, Thomas said that the insurance sector may witness reduced profitability in the next financial year due to the implementation of the ‘ no premium, no cover ’ policy of the National Insurance Commission, NAICOM. According to Thomas, the insurance market will be highly liquid and will be a better place to do business.

According to Thomas, the ‘ no premium, no cover ’ policy is the best thing to have happened in the insurance sector and in the years to come it will become a culture

in the Nigerian insurance market and it will enhance service delivery to the insurance public.

Meanwhile, the NIA has said that it is putting modalities in place to ensure a smooth take-off of the marine insurance module of the Nigerian Insurance Industry Database, NIID, by first quarter of 2014.

The marine module of the NIID aims to eliminate fake marine insurance policies that are in circulation in the maritime industry.

It will be recalled that the motor module of the NIID has been in operation for over three years now and it has reduced the volume of fake motor insurance policies in circulation.

Thomas applauded the

performance of the motor module since it was introduced into the country, adding that the success achieved so far from the first module has led to the implementation of the second module in marine business.

He noted that the Association is collaborating with security agencies such as the Vehicle Inspection Office, VIO, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC and the Police to ensure the successful implementation of the project in all parts of the country.

The Head, NIID, Mrs. Bola Omole while presenting her paper on insurance database said that the database in 2013 has uploaded 1.65 million vehicle insurance policies as against 300,000 it uploaded in December 2011.

She explained that since the deploying of 25 gadgets to Ogun State for verification there has been high patronage of genuine motor insurance policies by the people.

She however identified lack of government buy in, lack of enforcement and low awareness as some of the challenges confronting the performance of the NIID project.

She urged government at all levels to enforce this laws that have been established by an Act, adding that is the duty of the government to enforce laws.

Omole added that lack of adequate awareness about the project has also contributed to the low performance of the NIID, adding that most vehicle owners are not aware of the existence of NIID.

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New year day is top holiday for auto theft

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pparently, thieves like to ring in the New Year with a new car.

A new report released by the National Insurance Crime Bureau in America found that New Year’s Day is the most popular holiday for auto thefts. In 2012, 2,228 vehicles were reported stolen on Jan. 1.

Labor Day was second with 2,158 and right behind it was New Year ’s Eve with 2,152 auto thefts reported.

The value of stolen cars in 2012 was more than $4.3 billion with the average vehicle value totaling $6,019. Here’s how you can protect yourself in 2014.

Auto insurance Auto theft is covered by your insurance policy if you carry comprehensive coverage. Theft coverage will apply to loss of the vehicle and loss of car parts, such as airbags, or items that are stock to the vehicle.

Top ten stolen vehicles 2012 More than 75,000 airbags are stolen each year in this country, costing insurers and vehicle owners more than $50 million a year.

Comprehensive coverage is not mandatory, although your lien holder may require it for financing, but it will also cover damage caused by fire, vandalism and weather-related events.

Christmas day, thanksgiving have the most kitchen fires

AGM: From left: Managing Director, Law Union & Rock Insurance Plc, Mrs.Toyin Ogunseye; Chairperson, Mrs. Adenike Adeniran; Company Secretary and Head of Legal, Mr. Stan Chikwendu, during the 44th Annual General Meeting of the company, in Lagos

INSPEN unveils nominees for 2013 insurance award nspenonline, an insurance and pension online media, has released the names of nominees for the 2013 Nigerian Insurance and Pension (INSPEN) Award.

A statement by its Editor, Chuks Udo Okonta, said the yearly award which is in seven categories will be contested by underwriting, broking firms and individuals who distinguished themselves in 2013.

He said the nominees for the Insurance Man of the year category are, the Managing Director Mansard Insurance Plc, Mrs. Yetunde Ilori; Managing Director Leadway Assurance Limited, Mr. Oye Hassan-Odukale; Managing

BRIEF

Director Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc, Mr. Olawale Onaolapo and former President Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) Dr. Wole Adetimehin.

He noted that firms nominated for Insurance Company of the Year are, Mansard Insurance Plc; AIICO Insurance Plc; Leadway Assurance Limited; Custodian Group and Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc. He said Mr. Yemi Soladoye; Mr Oladipo Bailey; Professor Joe Irukwu and Mr. Osaka Ogala, were nominated for the Excellence Award.

For Best Trade Group Award, he said Nigerian Insurers

Association; Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers and Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria were nominated.

Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc; Leadway Assurance Limited and Mansard Insurance Plc were nominated for Companies for Corporate Brand Award.

Firms nominated for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Award were, Consolidated Hallmark Insurance Plc; Industrial and General Insurance; Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc; Leadway Assurance Limited and Mansard Insurance Plc. Okonta noted that firms nominated for the Pension

Fund Administrator of the year are, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers; AIICO Pension Managers; Leadway Pensure PFA Limited and PAL Pensions.

He urged voters to cast their votes for individuals and firms that have contributed immensely to the development of insurance and pension industry and by extension the nation by mail to inspenonline@gmail.com o r udochukwuyem@yahoo.com.

He said the award ceremony will come up by February in Lagos.

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ore U.S. kitchen fires are reported on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day — three times more than any other day of the year, Liberty Mutual says.

The National Fire Protection Association says cooking is the leading cause of home fires and the second leading cause of home fire deaths in the United States. New data suggests some of those fires can be prevented if people practiced basic fire safety rules in the kitchen. A recent Liberty Mutual Insurance survey reveals more than half of Americans plan to cook for family and friends during the holidays — with 42 percent of those cooking for groups of 11 or more.

Eighty-three percent of U.S. adults admit to engaging in dangerous cooking behaviors which increase the likelihood of kitchen fires.

24 — Vanguard,WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

Equities defy seasonal trend, remain upbeat C

ONTRARILY to the trend where share prices expedience steep decline towards the end of the year and at the beginning of aNew Year due to sell-off by investors to meet certain expenses, share prices of equities listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, have remained upbeat.

Some stockbrokers, who spoke to Vanguard, attributed it to some restructuring in the market like the presence of Market Makers that were at hand to stabilise prices and the dominance of foreign investors, who are not subjected to seasonal trends like yuletide period.

According to Mr. David Adonri, Managing Director, Lambeth Trust and Investment Limited, the market has already been restructured and the

seasonalities are no longer possible.

“The restructuring has enabled the Market Makers to intervene from time to time to stabilise the market. So, at a period like this when perhaps retail investors are trying to exit, there is a mechanism in place to stabilise the market,” he said.

“The nature of investors in the market has also changed over time. Foreign investors are generally institutions that don’t take position in the market the way the domestic investors do or exit. They dominate the market now, so their activities determine the direction of the market.

So, because foreign investors are institution, they are not going to sell stocks to celebrate festivals. Secondly, they are not also likely going to sell to pay children’s school fees. Their departure from the market had caused some set back in the

From left: Chairman, Ifesowapo Iron and Building Material Market, Orile, William Oyelowo; Product Manager, Savings Account, Consumer Proposition Group, Diamond Bank, Osasere Oture; Deputy Manager, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Calix Ita; Business Manager, Bode Thomas, Diamond Bank, Anietie Umobong and Senior Manager, IT Advisory Services, KPMG, John Anyanwu, during the Diamond Bank DiamondXtra Special Year-End draws, in Lagos.

Forte Oil, Transcorp join NSE-30 index

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

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HE Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, has announced the results of the annual review of the NSE-30, NSE 50 and NSE L11 Indices and five sectoral indices for the year 2013 with Forte Oil and Transnational Corporation of Nigeria, Transcorp, making it to the list of the newly selected NSE-30 Index.

Also reviewed were the NSEBanking Index, NSEInsurance Index, NSE Consumer Goods Index, NSE Oil/Gas Index, and NSE Industrial Index.

However, NSE Consumer Index, NSE Oil/Gas Index, NSE Industrial Index and NSE L11 remained unchanged at the end of the exercise.

Exiting the NSE 30 Index are shares of Ashakacem Plc and C M Y K

Dangote Flourmill Plc. MRS Oil Nig. Plc and Wapic Insurance were included in the NSE 50 Index, while Livestock Feeds and Nigerian Aviation Handling Company, NAHCo were removed. In the NSE Banking Index, Wema Bank was included, while Sterling Bank exited; Consolidated Hallmark Insurance and Equity Assurance were added to the NSE Insurance Index, while Law Union and Rock Insurance and Custodian & Allied Insurance were removed.

According to Mr. Adeyermi Osoba, Chairman, Index Committee of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, who announced the result, Custodian & Allied Insurance was removed from NSE Insurance Index as a result of its re-classification to another sector.

He stated that the review was undertaken on December 24, 2013, while the trading period covered was June 26, 2013 to December 24, 2013 (a total of 125 trading days).

He noted that the composition of the review would become effective tomorrow, Thursday, January 2, 2014.

It would be recalled that the stocks were selected based on their market capitalisation from the most liquid sectors.

The NSE 30, 50 and Industrial Indices are major stock market indices, which track the performance of 30, 50 and 10 most liquid stocks representing industry sector, listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange respectively. The sectoral indices comprise the top 10 most capitalised and liquid companies in the each of the sectors.

As 2013 draws to a close

T

his column on December 4, 2013 discussed public safety and security with respect to posted speed limits on our roads and highways. As one travels out of Lagos starting from Ojota on the Lagos to Ibadan Expressway, there is a stretch of road in Lagos between Magodo and Ojodu Berger in which stretch there have been a number of spectacular motor vehicle accidents in the past two years. The latest multiple motor vehicle accidents on this stretch took place on Saturday, 7 December 2013. There is a valley situated between a Mobil Oil station at Magodo and a Capital Oil station at Omole with a road bridge at the bottom of the valley. The motor vehicle accidents that occur in this valley usually start with a loaded articulated goods vehicle or fuel tanker running into vehicles ahead of it. Reports of the multiple accidents of 7 December 2013 indicate that there were substantial time intervals between three sets of major collisions.

What can we do to change this valley of death to a valley of hope?

The Lagos State Government, LASG, has introduced a ramp structure for the control of motor vehicle travelling speeds on our roads. The structure is at a recognisable height above the road surface and a motor vehicle approaching the ramp must be brought to a virtual stop by the driver. The vehicle climbs the ramp, travels across the ramp and climbs down the other side of the ramp. The Federal Ministry of Works, FMW, should post a speed limit of 60km per hour on the stretch of the Lagos to Ibadan Expressway from the Ojota interchange to Ojodu Berger and should install ramps as described just above at intervals to enforce this speed limit.

If there are persons who have doubts about the efficacy of enforced speed limits, I would implore such persons to visit one piece of Nigeria which thrives on safety at the workplace, between the workplace and home and at home. This piece of Nigeria is the Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas, NLNG, company complex

,

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

past. We have more of foreign investors than domestic investors now. Domestically, also, we have more of institutional investors than retail investors,” he added.

Also speaking, Haruna Kebira of APT Securities and Funds limited, said, “What I just discover is that the usual practice where people sell down at the end of the year and beginning of the year was not the case. People are even buying to take position against next year. What we see now is the lowest price you can possibly get.

From January 2, 2014, all the prices you are seeing today, you won’t see them again because what the market has done is that most of the stocks have set a new limit for themselves.” He said that stocks like Fidson Healthcare, UBA Capital, African Prudential Registrar and N.E.M Insurance have all broken into new highs against general expectation.

There are also issues related to the life styles of the drivers that should be addressed in the safety campaign

,

on Bonny Island, Rivers State where there is an enforced posted speed limit lower than the 60km per hour mentioned here.

The other significant factors in the reduction of motor vehicle accidents are the articulated motor vehicles and the drivers who control the vehicles. The major oil marketing companies that have majority foreign shareholders no longer own petrol tankers.

However, these companies have a social responsibility in ensuring that fuel tankers delivering petroleum products to their retail outlets operate in a safe manner. The oil marketing companies, the flour millers, the cement manufacturing companies, the breweries, the bottling companies, the Nigerian Ports Authority, the companies operating the Lagos ports from which containers and other goods traffic originate and the labour unions to which drivers belong should all join together for a sustained road safety campaign. Vehicles associated with the organisations just listed above should be covered with posters on safety issues. In particular, drivers should be advised to ask themselves if the brakes on their vehicles are in perfect condition before they set out on a journey. They should be advised on what steps to take if the brakes show telltale signs that their vehicles cannot be brought to a stop within a safe operating distance. There are also issues related to the life styles of the drivers that should be addressed in the safety campaign.

I note that this is the last Wednesday in 2013 when we are at work. Next Wednesday, it would be Christmas day and the following one would be the first day of 2014. This column would not be presented on these Wednesdays. Please permit me to extend to all persons who read as well as to all persons who are associated with this column my best wishes for 2014.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014 — 25

DIARY Select ICT events zTelecom CEM World Congress 2014 April 2014, Venue TBC, London zhong Kong ICT Expo 13 – 16 April 2014 Hong Kong. z Cards & payment Asia holds in Singapore 23-24 April 2014. zTransport Networks for Mobile Operators 2014 13 – 14 May 2014 London. zCritical Communications World 27-29 May 2014 BITEC, Bangkok, Thailand

Preview

CROWD...... ATMs can't work!

New inventions shaping life and living

A

new prototype house walked around the campus of the Wysing Arts Centre in Cambridgeshire, England.

The eco-friendly house is powered by solar cells and minature windmills, and comes with a kitchen, a composting toilet, a system for collecting rain water, one bed, a wood stove for CO2 neutral heating, a rear opening that forms a stairway entrance, and six legs.

Cash-less ATMs, dysfunctional POS terminals mar yuletide celebrations

By PRINCE OSUAGWU & RICHARD UDOFIA

T

hose who put so much hope on the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN’s cashless Nigeria initiative, particularly in Lagos metropolis, got a rude shock during the Yuletide. Some of them were left with a sour festive season with cashless Automated Teller Machines, ATMs and dysfunctional Point of Sale, POS terminals.

During the Christmas period, it was all hue and cries for people in Satellite, Maza-Maza and Festac Town areas who depended on the cashless project, to pay for goods and services or withdraw cash from ATMs

I N S LG brings G series I Smartphones D E to Nigeria C M Y K

•LG G-Series smartphones

outside banking hours.

On the Christmas eve particularly, a long queue of users were frustrated at ATM points in almost all the banks in Maza Maza- Satellite

and Berger yard areas of Apapa respectively, wearing long faces because the ATMS could not yield to all their attempts to get money out of them

,

The House that walks

I think this whole ATM thing is a massive failure in Nigeria if it cannot serve good purpose at a time like this

town axis as their transactions couldn’t get through.

A tour of Festac Town and Apapa areas of Lagos on new year eve also revealed a similar situation with huge crowd of people at different ATM locations in 23, 41 and 4th avenue roads in Festac

,

Majority of the people who spoke to Hi-Tech expressed fear of spending the New Year celebration without food and drinks just like it happened to some, during Xmas.

A seemingly frustrated young woman, who later identified herself as Mrs

2014: Why global IT companies in Nigeria may not glow unless...

... POS termin

als too

Ifeka, could not control her soliloquy; “ what will I tell this children when I get home. How can I face them at home without the things I promised to buy in the market? I think this whole ATM thing is a massive failure in Nigeria if it cannot serve good purpose at a time like this” Another disappointed user who spoke to Vanguard, Mr Donald Ayorinde, felt disgusted that at a time when the government was supposed to make the benefits of cashless economy count, users were inadvertently made to distrust the system. “I lived

Continues on Page 27

Society of Engineers elects members via NIGCOMSAT e-voting system

26 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

AIT Board approves plans to move to seaview campus LG brings G series Smartphones to Nigeria G L hana’s leading private technology university, Accra Institute of Technology (AIT) has finalised plans to open its second ultra-modern Seaview Campus for next semester.

This follows the decision taking by the Board of Trustees of the Accra Institute of Technology at it meeting at the Cantonments campus, Accra, on 16th December, 2013.

In attendance at the meeting were Board members including three former Vice Chancellors of Ghana’s top public universities, namely Prof.

Ivan Addae-Mensah, former Vice-Chancellor, University of Ghana, Professor, Samuel Adjepong, former Vice-Chancellor, University of Cape Coast and Professor, Jophus Anamoah-Mensah, former Vice Chancellor University of Education, Winneba.

The meeting presided over by the Chairman of the AIT Board, world renowned Physicist and Mathematician, Prof.

Francis Allotey, was also attended by other distinguished members of the AIT Board including, the Vice Chairman Prof. Edward Ayensu, former Chairman of the World Bank Inspection Panel, Dr Grace Bediako, the past immediate Government Statistician, Mr. K.S Yamoah, Managing Director of Ghana Stock Exchange and Prof. Emmanuel Owusu-Bennoah, former Director General, of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

With the commencement of classes at its new second campus, AIT will be more positioned to cater for its fast growing number of international students majorly from West Africa, particularly Nigeria. About 1000 students matriculated for the new session with a high percentage foreign students including students from Nigeria. The Seaview campus at Weija - a suburb of Accra, about 5km kilometers from central Accra is designed to provide enhanced learning and research environment for AIT’s growing number of students.

It boasts of ultra-modern lecture facilities and hotel accommodation for its teeming students. ogy (MIT) and the Open University of Malaysia to offer its students vast access to learning resources.

“The Accra Institute of Technology (AIT) is an independent technologyfocused research university modelled on internationally recognized institutes of technologies like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the California Institute of Technology (CALTECH), we are continuously occupied with providing not only the best of environment for our ever- increasing number of students but also ensuring that up to date learning resources that would make them compete globally is put at their disposal,” said the President of AIT, Professor Clement Dzidonu in his report to the Board.

ASUS ranks top in 2013 Taiwan Global Brands Value Survey

C

omputer and other mobile device makers ASUS, last week braced the odds of adverse market environment to be recognized as the number-one Taiwanese brand in the Best Taiwan Global Brands Awards 2013.

The organizers of the award said that ASUS brand value showed resolve and maintained a steady climb, and is now estimated at USD 1.711 billion, approximately NGN 282.32.billion.

This marks the eleventh continuous year that ASUS has made the top-three list of international Taiwanese

brands.

According to ASUS Vice Chairman and President, Mr. Jonathan Tsang,”our Search for Incredible brand promise finds the balance between technology and humanity as we transform users’ expectations of mobile computing, giving them new ways to interact with their devices.

ASUS is passionate about technology and driven by innovation. We dream, we dare and we strive to create an effortless and joyful digital life for everyone. We’re always in search of incredible ideas and experiences — and we aspire to deliver the incredible in everything we do.”

G Mobile, has deliberately targeted the Yuletide period to bring its G series smart gadgets, including the G Pro, G Pro-Lite, G2 as well as the G Pad to Nigeria .

With them, the company also flagged off a promo which will see customers who patronize its shops to buy these products, going home with gifts ranging from stylus pens, Bluetooth head sets, power banks and notebooks to Pocket Photos. The pocket photo is a new device that prints instantly after just taking a picture.

A n n o u n c i n g

availability of the devices, General Manager, Mobile Communications, LG Electronics West Africa , Mr. JS Yoo said: “powerful performance, innovative cross-tasking and brilliant designs are the distinguishing marks of the LG GSeries smartphones.

This game-changing smartphone range defies the limits of technology with b r e a t h t a k i n g performance; As a result, users are able to seamlessly multitask across business and entertainment and we believe Nigerians deserve to them”

LG said it also introduced the G Pad 8.3 tablet to t h e Nigerian market, to f u r t h e r strengthen its G Series lineup of premium m o b i l e devices. The G Pad boasts of Full HD display on an eight-inch class device, a unique userexperience and wide range of connectivity features.

The 16GB tablet features a slim and sleek

•LG G-Series smartphones

form, equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 Processor with 1.7GHz Quad-Core CPU and a 1920 x 1200 widescreen and ultraextended graphics array (WUXGA) display.

‘IT infrastructure maintenance can reduce Opex by 30%'

By EMEKA AGINAM

T

he Chief Executive Officer of Venema Advies Nigeria Limited, Dick Venema weekend in Lagos said that a professionally maintained information technology (IT) infrastructure could save organization operating costs (Opex) of between 20-30 per cent.

He said that the current practice where companies adopt what he described as ‘the breakfix model’ is costing companies a huge sum of money, adding that this is not the proper thing to do, adding that the lack of professional advice could also lead to this.

“This is not how it works, in most cases, equipment is not broken; it is just badly maintained. This is usually due to the absence technical knowledge of IT by consultants and bad advice from some of the IT companies. Very high IT cost results from this as companies just keep on spending. Companies can optimise IT just by maintaining it well. That will reduce the cost that companies have by buying new equipment every time that something goes wrong. I think for most companies, they can save around 20 per cent to 30 per cent at least a year by just maintaining the envi-

ronment right as in good service. This however should not be limited to equipment but everything must be kept running smoothly. It all begins with the right advice and if the consultant who advises the company has no knowledge of what is happening in the IT world, he

ity.

According to him, “What we see in Nigeria is that most companies are spending a lot of money on IT and still it is not working. So what we would like to offer them is a free cloud assessment of the current environment and to see how we can upgrade to

would not be able to advise the chief information officer (CIO) or CEO on the right solutions.’

Citing internet connections as an example where many companies still run on slow satellite connection while optic fibre cable (OFC) is available, running through the street, ge said that though OFC connection may be expensive over satellite or aerial connection, it has the advantage of stabil-

a private or public cloud without any or minimal capital cost. No public datacenter or rack space is needed. Your own private cloud in your company without high costs upfront. We deliver complete private clouds with subscription models for VMWare, Microsoft, Symantec, RES and Trend Micro.”

He said that Venema is partnering with a satellite firm, Immarsat, to bring capacities into the country at affordable

prices to boost the economy, adding that connectivity is central to economic prosperity.

“The Global Express technology that Inmarsat presented at AfriCom in South Africa, promises to deliver a higher capacity for prices basically comparable to the fibre connections here in Nigeria. So for companies which don’t have access to a fibre connection, they still can get this 50 megabytes (Mb) speed by satellite. We all know that we still have a long way to go in Nigeria for a complete fibre coverage and that a lot of companies are still on satellite, but reaching a 1020Mb speed for really a comparable price, brings cloud computing closer for companies who do not have high capacity access now.

Inmarsat even has a strategic alliance with Cisco to develop a platform for more advanced applications such as TV on demand, tele-presence and collaborative working.”, he explained.

He said the company is working towards delivering complete IT solutions together with its partners, adding that with current services and products, we deliver turnkey projects that are related to connectivity, to computing environments and to communication.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014—27

NIN will serve as Individual’s Identity ----NIMS

By EMMA ELEBEKE

T

HE National Identi ty Management Commission, NIMC has said that the NonIntelligent 11 digits National Identification Number, NIN is what will genuinely reveal the identity of registrants at any point in time.

The NIN will be pulled and given to Nigerians and legal residents after successful enrolment The Director Corporate Communications of the Commission, Mr Okwudiafor Anthony, who revealed this further explained that the National Identity Management System is entirely different from mere Photo Card issuance that was carried out in previous schemes.

He said the NIN is the Individual’s Identity and the numbers are what will be used for authentication and verification through a subsystem.

He pointed out that the unique Smart Card that will be issued to all those that have registered and collected their NIN is unique because

From left: Engr. Bayo Banjo, President, Nigerian Internet Group and Mr. Chinanye Uzo-Mbaukwu, Secretary General, Institute of Software Parctioners of Nigeria at a recent NIG forum held in Lagos. Photo BY EMEKA AGINAM.

it is chip based card and 100% poly carbonate with 18 security features of international standard.

He also revealed that the Card also has 13 applications, including a payment solution, a match-on-card and an ePRI. The Director emphasized that the enrolment for the NIN is a continuous exercise from Mondays to Fridays with additional pre-enrolment portal that allows individuals to pre-enroll through the portal (www.ninenrol.gov.ng).

The portal is capable of serving over one million

pre-registration a day.

Okwudiafor added that the on-line pre- enrolment allows applicants to input their demographic data and print out the pre-registration slip that has a 2D Barcode and proceed to any nearest NIMC enrolment center to capture their biometrics and electronic signature which completes the process and issue the NIN. He reiterated that the NIMS project is focused on Identity Management which is real time live processing of data from every location in line with the internation-

al standards (ICAO, ISO, IEEE, etc.) and best global practices.

Okwudiafor also revealed that more enrolment centers will be opened in all the LGAs areas across the Nation in addition to mobile enrolment centers in high traffic locations like the military, pre-military, universities, MDA’S and remote areas to cater for the grassroots.

He enumerated the benefits of the NIMS project which include providing a convenient and simplified process for enrolment into the National Identity Man-

2014: Why global IT companies in Nigeria may not glow unless...

T

he global IT battle field in 2014 will revolve between triangular dimensions of: IT Policy, e-Government, and eSecurity. These triangular parameters will dictate the development and market growth directions of the Information and Communications Technology sector.

And unless massive local skill capacities are urgently developed in the Nigerian IT Ecosystem, the expected market growth by global IT companies will result into a diminishing mirage. The reason is simple: Technology diffusion has overgrown its support (skill) capacities for continued growth in Nigeria and by extension, in most of African upbeat nations. This phenomenon is due to two critical factors: The Telecommunications-centric IT vision of the nation and the gross neglect of addressing indigenous IT

capacity building during the early bubble of the initial telecommunications growth era of 2003-2011.

As we migrate into the midstream of the second decade of 21st century Technology frontier, new conditions will be required to ensure and accelerate national IT development.

The most critical of those conditions is ‘indigenous capacity’. Currently, Nigeria ranks 131 of 143 in global ICT e-Readiness development status – mainly due to her inability to build commensurate local skill capacities to support and sustain the development of her IT ecosystem.

This lack of skill capacities has stressed the vari-

ables for accelerated growth – earlier built on hardware and will further distress user demand, constructive investment, employment and real development as we engage 2014, unless the nation refocuses her absolute telecoms –centric direction strategy and move into constructive knowledge and innovative solutions – championed by knowledge ware/software, where massive investment is critically required.

To attain the national Software capacity building, we must first of all consciously do the following: *Bring back IT knowhow currently incubating at the Industry Domain to

Education. *Retool the Education System and by extension, retrain our IT lecturers– ensuring that we abandon the teaching of ICT-User competence and move onto Computer Science Education at all levels. * Adopt a national IT Skill-Conversion Strategy to accelerate our capacity building goal. *Furthermore, it also means that we must establish special Information Technology Institutions – such as national Software Engineering Development Institutes at Federal, Private Domain and State levels. *Connect with our Diaspora Brain Drain and convert them to IT brain gain.

Cash-less ATMs, dysfunctional POS terminals mar yuletide celebrations Continues fromPage 25 in the United Kingdom for over ten years before coming back to this countr y last year. I never experienced this kind of embarrassment.

When, if not this time, would the government show the benefits of the cashless initiative it has been preaching about?

Or are the banks deliberately sabotaging the project? How can all the ATMs in L agos suddenly refuse to work during preparatory to Xmas and new year celebrations?

“Do you even know the worst of it all, is that you can hardly buy anything in any shop, no matter how big, and pay with your card. You either hear that the POS terminals are faulty or the shop attendants do not know how to operate them. I think it is only in Nigeria that I have heard this kind of stories; and if I may ask, what is the essence of cashless Nigeria when you can neither pay for goods and services with your card nor withdraw from the ATM to attend to an urgent need? You guys have a lot of work to do, for real!” He added.

The Central Bank of Nigeria, sometime in 2011 began to nurse the idea of a cashless economy as practiced by other developing and developed nations of the world. By January 2012, it rolled out the first implementation phase with Lagos state as beneficiary.

However, July 1 2013, it extended the number of implementing states to five, including Rivers, Kano, Anambra, Ogun and Abia as well as the FCT. The aim was to reduce the dominance of cash in the economy by discouraging cash based transactions and promoting more of card and other electronic based transactions.

However, with a reported 40 percent of the point of sales terminals nationwide dysfunctional, the project may have not totally served its purpose.

Even with another phase of the cashless policy kick starting in

the third quarter of last year, several opinions are that not much success has been recorded as an average businessman/woman still enjoys exchanging physical cash for business transactions.

Some of the problems so far identified, included less knowledge on its workability, high rate of illiteracy, insufficient terminals, high rate of technological deficiency, among others.

Several opinions seem to favour a more relevant awareness campaign, publicity and sensitization of the masses on the operational use of the POS machine both in Lagos and the other five states in the second phase of the project.

On the contrary, the executive secretar y, Electronic Payment Providers Association of Nigeria, E-PPAN, Mrs Onajite Regha however, argued that the cashless initiate introduced in Lagos was recording huge success, and has continued to impact positively on Lagosians and Nigerians respectively.

Although she admitted that the issue of connectivity to the POS terminals remained a major challenge, she also believed that with an average volume of 591,000 transactions on monthly basis, the cashless policy has exceeded projections in Lagos..

For her, “ we need better connectivity to these terminals so as to encourage more public usage, but there is also the need for every stakeholder to contribute towards the full utilization of these machines and a permanent solution to connectivity issues.

Meanwhile, a close source at the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System, NIBBS, who pledged anonymity, promised that things will soon take a different look.

“We are working with the telecommunication companies to ensure improvement on the POS terminals. With different network upgrades, the telcos are engaging in at the moment, the problems would soon be rectified”.

28—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

BlackBerry enters into five-year deal Society of Engineers elect members with Foxconn

via NIGCOMSAT e-voting system

By PRINCE OSUAGWU

S

F

OR the second time in two years, the Nigerian Society of Engineers,NSE, has declared that its general election recently was successfully conducted through the deployment of electronic voting,evoting system designed and produced locally by Nigerian Communications Satellite, NIGCOMSAT Limited.

The first of the e-voting process took place in Ilorin, Kwara State in 2012, while this latest feat took place at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja during its yearly general meeting/conference late last year.

NSE President, Engr.

Mustapha Balarabe Shehu said “this is for the second time. At least those who may not believe what we did last year will be more convinced now that we have the expertise in this country to solve many of our problems. In fact, NIGCOMSAT has made us proud”.

Prelude to the e-voting, an e-registration took place a day before where all eligible engineers had their data captured and saved on a data base. Biometric details included photographs, finger prints among others for Radio Frequency Identification (RFID). In all, 2048 engineers were captured during the registration and 1574 voted eventu-

• Ahmed Rufai, NIGCOMSAT MD/CEO

ally. These figures surpassed those of previous year which recorded 1313 on the register while 1303 voted.

NIGCOMSAT platform included 30 networked computers that were connected to a central server and the internet to enable agents of contestants monitor the election online, real time. The platform was fitted with enhanced software developed by the Micro

Electronic Centre (MEC) at NIGCOMSAT. “This was a great improvement from the previous year ”, Head of MEC, Dr. Agu Collins explained.

Elected Deputy President, Engr. Otis Anyaeji praised the process which he described as state of the art for voting and therefore prescribed it strongly for national, state and local government election; adding

that this is likened to an enterprise that should be sustained.

Chairman, House Committee on Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Hon. Ibrahim Gusau, who is also a member of NSE, commended the eregistration and e-voting platform of NIGCOMSAT saying “this is definitely good for the country”.

MTN Songstar App: Password for innovation

BY LAJA THOMAS

M

TN Songstar ’s musical app may sound so nominally simple but that simplicity in words hardly mirrors the depth of efficiency. More so, the winning prize of a Porsche Cayman is just a measure of how valuable the musical app is.

Giving an entertainment-driven and aspiring Nigerian youth population the opportunity to express their deepest crave for stardom says it all.

So it was at Oriental Hotel, recently, during the ultimate prize presentation of a Porsche Cayman to Patrick Mathias (a.k.a ‘Password’), the winner of the app musical competition, that C M Y K

By EMEKA AGINAM

the transcending essence of MTN’s innovation was made obvious.

The musical app, precisely Songstar, is a digital mobile innovation which allows interested MTN subscribers to select a karaoke version of any song of choice, sing to it, record and share with friends or the public. The competition that was introduced to publicise the app gave users the opportunity to upload on MTN youtube channel while sharing with the public in order to generate a number of ‘likes’ or approval. The ultimate prize which went to Patrick Mathias indicates the growing popularity of the digital initiative, something like a purpose attained.

As well, the young man is an example of many talented young Nigerians who have missed out on stardom through applying to participate in a more competitive and, most times physically exhausting, musical reality shows. Giving those who never made it through the tough demands of those shows another shot at such alluring heights shows, clearly, how relevant the mobile app is – creating a short cut to fame.

Like Nigeria’s first musical reality show, MTN Project Fame, the app musical competition ensures that talented young Nigerians do not just gain exposure but that they are left in capable hands to fast-track

their maturity and horn their musical skills while gaining traction in the music industry under a worthy protégé. This time, instead of Ben Ogbeiwi, popularly called ‘Uncle Ben’ in Project Fame, an ace producer, Don Jazzy was contracted to take the winner of Songstar app musical competition under his acoustic shield.

Don Jazzy is not just a producer; he is a trailblazer, or rather an innovator. Having bust unto the entertainment scene a decade ago, after spending a few years overseas, he arrived with a unique acoustic mastery that has set the pace in the industry ever since.

mart phone maker, Blackberry while struggling to regain market share has agreed on a five-year deal with Foxconn, a Taiwan-based maker of electronic products and components.

With this development, the two companies will initially work on the development of a new smartphone production..

Under the new deal, Foxconn will jointly develop and manufacture certain new BlackBerry devices and manage the inventory associated with those devices.

Under the new deal too, BlackBerry will own all of its intellectual property and perform product assurance on devices through the Foxconn partnership, as it does currently with all thirdparty manufacturers.

Accordingly, the initial focus of the partnership will be a smartphone for Indonesia and other fastgrowing markets targeting early 2014.

“This partnership demonstrates BlackBerry’s commitment to the device market for the long-term and our determination to remain the innovation leader in secure end-toend mobile solutions,” Chen said, adding that, “Partnering with Foxconn allows BlackBerry to focus on what we do best – iconic design, world-class security, software development and enterprise mobility management – while simultaneously addressing fast-growing markets leveraging Foxconn’s scale and efficiency that will allow us to compete more effectively.”

“BlackBerry is an iconic brand with great technology and a loyal international fan base. We are pleased to be working with BlackBerry as it positions itself for future growth and we look forward to a successful strategic partnership in which Foxconn will jointly develop and manufacture new BlackBerry devices in both Indonesia and Mexico for new and existing markets.”, Terry Gou, Founder and Chairman, Foxconn, said.

BlackBerry will focus heavily, via internal development, on market segments where its continuous innovations in secure hardware, software and services remain critical and integral to enterprise and government customers.

BlackBerry also intends to drive adoption of its multi-platform BBM, deliver real-time, reliable and secure messaging through its Network Operations Center (NOC), and grow its enterprise mobility and mobile device management business through on-premise and cloud-based solutions for cross-platform devices as well as its own.

Dataflex becomes HP services sales partner of the year

A

t the just concluded world’s largest Information Technology Company Hewlett Packard (HP) hosted its elite Partners across Africa in Dubai recently, Dataflex was awarded the “HP Services Sales Partner Of The Year for English Africa.

In receiving the award, the company ’s Group Head, Marketing & Strategy, Chidi Okpala commended HP for honoring the company on the laudable achievement.

In recognition of the company’s contribution towards the growth of the HP technology business in Africa, he said that Dataflex was honoured by this recognition

by HP Africa , adding that they were further challenged to do better, grow our partnership with HP and further sustain the relationship with our customers whom in fact we owe this award to. “Their belief in the services we render has earned us this recognition in Africa” he said.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

: E U G O L PRO

By OCHEREOME NNANNA

I

n spite of the persisting gloomy indices portraying Nigeria as a country still mired in backwardness, the year 2013 was full of silver linings on the dark clouds of the nation’s firmament. Our economy was given a healthy rating by many reputable international agencies, though it was generally agreed that little of it is being felt by the people on the streets.

It was a year that Forbes Magazine handed the Forbes African of the Year Award to the Minister of Agriculture, Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, for helping to turn around the agricultural fortunes of the country and making it a model for the world to copy. It was also the year when our Vanguard African of the Year nominee, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group and Africa’s richest man, made giant forays both within the country and outside, carrying the flag of Nigeria into an arena which was hitherto a preserve of people from other continents and climes.

For instance, the Dangote Group announced plans to establish a petroleum refining complex that would cost an eye-popping $9 Billion. It was the year in which the Group revved up its global expansion project with the acquisition of 64% stake in South Africa’s Sephaku Cement (Pty) Ltd, with similar ventures in Tanzania, Nepal, Ethiopia and more to come. Dangote is leading the charge for Nigeria’s global industrial business outreach, a departure from the past when Nigeria was a mere dumping ground for all sorts of rubbish from all corners of the world.

Beyond enterprise, it was also a year in which Dangote went into partnership with the former wealthiest man in the world, Mr Bill Gates, to raise a princely $6 billion for the eradication of the polio virus from the entire world. SureC M Y K

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Celebrating a Nigerian troika

ly, such a home-grown multi-billionaire who has pioneered the Nigerian/Africa global venture in the passing year more than any other Nigerian or African deserves special recognition, which we consider our honour and pleasure to do.

When we conducted the election for our ManOf-The-Year 2013 which is usually carried out by our Board of Editors, the overwhelming majority of votes were in favour of Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, the Executive Governor of Delta State. It was not just his efforts in the passing year that won him the honour. He has run the affairs of the state for 78 months, largely succeeding in dousing the burning dichotomy between the two major sections of the state.

Uduaghan’s innovations which were copied by other states include the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC). Nearly all the other oil producing states have established their own “PADEC” committees to ensure that oil producing areas get more from the riches of their land than ever before, thus reducing the youth unrest and violence in those areas.

Uduaghan has also battled intense criminality in his state, particularly kidnapping, armed robbery, militancy and sea piracy in conjunction with the law enforcement agencies and the armed forces. He has thrown open the economy of the state and given free access to investors from within and outside the country in his fervent bid to prepare the state for the day when oil will no longer be its main income earner.

The Delta State Chief has also been a great stabilising force in the politics of his state and the South-South Zone. He is an enthusiastic

flag bearer to build a solid political bridge with the South East and indeed, all the zones of the country for the unity and stable progress of the nation.

Completing the troika in our awards is Chief Innocent Ifediaso Chukwuma, the founder and Chairman of the Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Ltd, Nnewi, who has bagged Vanguard’s Most Innovative Entrepreneur of the Year 2013.

Chukwuma fills us with pride and delight with his inspirational rise from a tyre and spare-parts dealer in Nkwo Nnewi, his hometown in Anambra State in 1982 to emerging as the proprietor of the first indigenously-owned comprehensive private car manufacturing plant in Nigeria and Africa at large.

From the ashes of collapsed multi-national vehicle assembly plants, which took place because of the unsupportive atmosphere in the country, Innoson was able to give us, not just the elusive Nigerian car, but an integrated and all-embracing motor assembly for virtually all purposes. He will be featuring as the foremost local content provider in the new automotive policy unfolded by the President Goodluck Jonathan administration, a venture that kicks off in the New Year.

We are proud to present the Nigerian Troika to the world who, before and during 2013, made a great difference in their respective areas.

Here is presenting to you, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON, the Vanguard African-Of-The Year 2013; Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, CON, Vanguard’s Man-Of-The-Year 2013 AND Chief Innocent Ifediaso Chukwuma, OON, Vanguard’s Most-Innovative-Entrepreneur-Of-The 2013!

30 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

PROFILE

Uduaghan: A man of vision in Government House

By EMMANUEL AZIKEN, Political Editor

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where he also distinguished himself in service to the extent that he was honoured with the General Manager’s prize for Outstanding Service.

His dedication to duty also propelled or advanced him in the hierarchy of the organisation as he was within six years of his employment, promoted to the position of Senior Medical Officer, a feat that was as at that time, unprecedented.

He subsequently disengaged from the services of the Medical Centre of the DSC to establish a private medical facility, named Abode Clinic. It was named after his grandmother, under whom he grew up in Mosogar, Delta State. The legacy of the grandmother who took the young Emmanuel on his first day to the Baptist Mission Primary School was finally crystallised.

Dr. Uduaghan had by this time started opening himself up to politics or trade unionism, having served as Secretary, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Warri, and also as Secretary, Association of Private Medical and Dental Practitioners, Warri Zone.

His first contact with partisan politics was in the run up to the National Assembly elections of 1992 when he helped in mobilising support for his cousin, James Ibori who stood as a candidate in that election.

Ibori lost that election, but paid compliments to Uduaghan for providing technical expertise which the candidate confessed after the election, would have helped him win only if he had taken them. At the restart of

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rowing up, the focus of the young Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan was to be an accountant. The potential for leadership that had been identified during his formative years had been expected to propel him towards top position in the corporate world.

But somehow, fate in the form of parental counselling intervened and the young Emmanuel diverted into the field of medicine following secondary school education at the Federal Government College, Warri, Delta State.

Emmanuel Eweta was born on October 22, 1954 to Chief Edmund and Mrs. Cecilia Uduaghan. The father was Itsekiri from Abigborodo, in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, and the mother was Ishan from Ubiaja in Esan South-East of Edo State. The mixed parentage was to play a large role, and indeed account for what would be recognized as Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan’s amenable and open-minded disposition to all men, especially in a multiethnic setting like Delta State.

His cosmopolitan outlook was also helped by his time at the Federal Government College, Warri, one of the initiatives of the Federal Government towards building unity across the country. At the school, he came across Nigerians from all parts of the country, a scenario that cemented his disposition towards looking at human beings and issues with a broadbased outlook.

By the time he entered medical school in the University of Benin in 1975, the young student had set his mind towards achieving the best in the profession, having been ordered by his father out of his initial first professional love, accountancy.

Uduaghan qualified as a medical doctor in 1980 and carried out his national youth service in Kwara State. The enthusiasm for service quickly manifested in the first year of his qualification as he was honoured as the most outstanding medical doctor in the set of medical doctors posted to the state in that service year.

Following the service year, he was employed by the Delta Steel Company, DSC, Aladja

Uduaghan has not hidden his determination to answer his own name in the erection of his legacies

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partisan politics in 1998, Uduaghan joined the Grassroots Democratic Movement, GDM and following the death of General Sanni Abacha, and the collapse of that democratisation process, he joined the newly formed Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. He was appointed commissioner for health in the cabinet of Chief James Ibori at the advent of the Fourth Republic in 1999, and held that position for the four years of the regime. His efforts in that office crystallised in the modernisation and rehabilitation of most of the hospitals in Delta State.

His efforts were recognised by the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS which honoured him as the best performing Commissioner for Health in the South-South geopolitical zone.

Such commendations in part recommended him for

promotion in the work place as he was lifted to the position of Secretary to the State Government at the commencement of the second term of the Ibori administration in June, 2003.

His election as governor in 2007 was almost like a logical step given the dedication and deftness he brought to his duties as government scribe.

Even though he fully served in the administration of Chief Ibori, Governor Uduaghan has not hidden his determination to answer his own name in the erection of his legacies.

Where some would point to one, two, or three achievements as legacies, Dr. Uduaghan has allowed Deltans to pinpoint the touch of his administration on their lives. For some it is the restructuring of the transportation model through the Asaba Airport that has redesigned movement into and out of the state and changed business philosophy among entrepreneurs in the state. For some others it is the open access to education and the boost of education infrastructure that has seen the commissioning of 13 Model Secondary Schools and 54 Model Primary Schools and the enhancement of the intellectual fibre of students through incentives as the N5 million per year post-graduate package for first class graduates, Dr. Uduaghan has increasingly shown himself as a man with a vision.

For some others in the state, the legacy could be the maternal and child health initiative that picks and pays for a baby’s total

well-being from conception to the age of five, which has helped crash the infant mortality rate in the state from 545 deaths in 100,000 births in 2007 when he took office to 241 deaths in 100,000 births in 2012. Others may see the legacy of the administration in the establishment of some of the best health infrastructure in the country as evidenced by the state of the art Oghara Teaching Hospital, in Oghara.

Many others admire his legacies in sports. Delta today, is arguably the foremost state in sports development.

Underlining the successes of the Uduaghan administration in Delta State is vision; looking beyond the present. It is that kind of vision that is driving the administration’s passionate pursuit to position the state outside the perimeters of the shock from fluctuating oil revenue.

The policy framed as Delta Beyond Oil encapsulates the three cardinal philosophy that was the hallmark of the Uduaghan administration at inception; human capital development, infrastructure development and peace and security. So far, Uduaghan has remained focused, patiently putting his legacies in the hearts of the people with a variety of positives that is the hallmark of a man with vision.

For his visionary steps in governance, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan is the choice of Vanguard Editors as the Man of the Year, 2013.

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The Uduaghan phenomenon in Delta

Uduaghan: Bringing forth Delta State

By EMMANUEL AZIKEN, Political Editor hospital which was for decades, one of the leading reference hospitals in the state.

The hospital has recently been rehabilitated and upgraded to a centre of excellence. Also upgraded to a centre of excellence is the Maternal and Child Health, MCH Centre in the Central Hospital, Warri.

Perhaps, what has turned out to be one of the sterling successes in the provision of health infrastructure is the ultra modern Oghara Teaching Hospital, one of the best equipped medical institutions in the country today.

The Teaching Hospital which was conceived by the preceding administration but completed by the Uduaghan administration is undoubtedly one of the enticing initiatives in the still evolving ambition of the administration to boost the economy of the state through medical tourism.

It is envisaged that in the long run that outsiders flocking for medical treatment would bring a big boost to the economy of the state.

From receiving attention in

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HE seed of transformation planted by Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan in Delta State did not appear at first dawn. Like a woman in pregnancy, Uduaghan’s manifestation started with some queasiness, the kind of early morning sickness associated with pregnant women before the shaping out of the tummy.

Uduaghan’s blueprint for a greater Delta State was underpinned in three cardinal points, human capital development, peace and security and development of infrastructure.

As a matter of fact, the touch of Dr. Uduaghan’s administration on the citizenry in Delta State starts from the womb, just after conception. At the first contact with the Delta health service, the unborn child and mother are provided with free medical service through the duration of pregnancy to the point of delivery, surgical or otherwise.

Following delivery, the mother is guaranteed free post-natal care for the first six weeks after delivery, and for the new born child, a free medical coverage is provided for the first five years of life.

The impact of this intervention in healthcare delivery has led to the remarkable fall in the infant mortality rate across Delta State from 545 per 100,000 births in 2007, to 241 per 100,000 in 2012.

The record which has been hailed across the country, and is now said to be the best in the country, was helped by the administration’s strategic initiative in putting consultation, treatment, laboratory investigations, free quality drugs and post natal care at the door step of the people of the state.

Since the commencement of the programme in November 2007, more than 300,000 women have benefited from the programme with increasing influx of women from neighbouring states to Delta State to enjoy the free services.

The free services are complemented with the abundance of specialists in many disciplines of maternal and child health.

Those who have been gifted with good health and have not had the opportunity of visiting the hospitals are, however, not oblivious of the enhancement of the health infrastructure across the state.

Most of the General Hospitals in the state have been upgraded into specialist hospitals with state of the art laboratory and diagnostic equipment.

The Uduaghan administration took over the Eku Specialist Hospital from the Baptist Mission following the fall in standards and infrastructure in the mission

Uduaghan’s blueprint for a greater Delta State was underpinned in three cardinal points- human capital development, peace and security and development of infrastructure .

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the womb to when it is born, the new born baby is catered for medically for the first five years in life until when the baby enters the school system.

At that point, the Uduaghan administration intervenes in another form in the life of the child through the free education programme that is obtainable in all public owned primary and secondary schools.

From 2007 when he took office, the Uduaghan administration has faithfully paid the fees of all students sitting for the Secondary School final examinations, a

policy, the governor underpinned by the observation that some students even after going through the free school programme are unable to pay the fees demanded to sit for the National Examination Council, NECO and the West African Examinations Council, WASC exams.

As part of his policy of reinventing education in Delta State, the administration has commenced a rehabilitation programme under which it has commissioned 13 Model Secondary Schools and 54 Model Primary Schools. The administration has also remodeled more than 18,000 classrooms across the state.

Though tertiary education is not wholly free, the administration has conceived schemes to soothe the pains of less privileged students through bursary and scholarship schemes for deserving students across the state.

Recently, the administration has instituted a programme of boosting intellectual fecundity among indigenes of the state with the automatic placement of all first class graduates of the state origin in a scholarship

package of N5 million each. As many as 185 students are currently benefiting from the scheme with a substantial proportion of the graduate students, studying abroad.

Those who are not intellectually minded and fall out from the administration’s education programme are not total losers. Provided for them is the option of benefiting from the well applauded MicroCredit Programme of the administration. The microcredit programme was one of the first success stories of the Uduaghan administration.

The Delta Micro-Credit Programme, DCMP was established on December 14, 2007 as a strategy towards empowering financially weak individuals in the society with a direct aim of alleviating poverty in the state.

The DCMP which has now been transformed into the Ministry of Poverty Eradication collaborates with strategic partners including microfinance banks and the Bank of Industry, BOI in directing knowledge, skill and capital towards the poor and the rural populace. The pro-poor initiative of the administration has so far captured 111,312 persons across the state spread across more than 10,000 groups.

The success of Delta under Uduaghan in combating poverty is underlined by the recognition given the state by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN. For three straight years between 2009 and 2011 the state carted away the CBN top prize in micro-credit financing.

Following the stretch of success and the state’s absence at the trophy presentations in 2012 and 2013, Governor Uduagahan was asked in an interview why the state was no longer winning the CBN competition. According to him, the state has now shifted its focus above winning awards towards wealth creation at the SME level.

“At a time people thought our micro credit scheme was all about winning awards. We have moved the scheme now to small and medium scale enterprises. Most of the initial micro businesses have now become medium and small scale enterprises. And some are even exporting their products, some now have NAFDAC certification. Some even have outlets outside Nigeria,” the governor said.

The CBN governor, Lamido Sanusi in giving his testimony of the success of the Delta micro-credit programme in 2011 said: “We just awarded Delta State as one of the states where micro-finance has been effectively utilized to tackle

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MAN OF THE YEAR

My legacy is with the people — Uduaghan

INTERVIEW BY OCHEREOME NNANNA, AZU AKANWA & EMMANUEL AZIKEN

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enrol and I was told to put my right hand over my head whether it could touch my left ear. But unfortunately for me that year I could not touch my left ear, so I was not taken. I cried, I cried very profusely, as my grandmother took me home.

Somehow, one of the teachers noticed that I was crying. So, the next day he came to the house, apparently, his name was Emmanuel, and he told my grandmother that it was like I was very interested in school and my grandmother said yes, and the teacher now said that I should be following him, to school but that I would not be enrolled since I wasn’t qualified and he was then teaching in primary one. So when I get to the school he would put me at the door so while he was teaching the class I would be listening to him and I was also answering questions. So that was how that year I didn’t really go to school, and the next year when my hand reached I still started in primary one so it was like doing primary one twice.

That was how I started school.

So the circumstances under which you went to school were not too different from those of President Jonathan who did not have shoes when he started schooling.

Not too far, but I had shoes.

At least when we were going to church I remember I put on shoes. My father was a policeman and he used to buy clothes and bring for us.

Anyway that was how I went to school but as I was growing up, about primary 3 I had now grown up to be able to go to farm. And the farming was of two types,

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Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan was his affable self on Thursday, December 12, 2013 as he settled down with the team of Vanguard Editors for an interview in the Delta State Governor’s Lodge in Lagos.

The interview, coming in the early evening after a series of appointments and meetings in Lagos, was no restraint to the governor, as he in one hour showed himself to be a man of details, rolling out facts and figures on his style, strategies and structures that made him Vanguard’s Man of the Year, 2013.

Excerpts: What can you remember about your days growing up?

First, I grew up in the village with my grandmother. I was just two years when my grandmother took me from my mother because my mother was falling ill, in and out, so my grandmother took me to a village called Mosogar in Ethiope West local government area.

That is why I speak Urhobo very well. One interesting thing about that village was that it was a rural community, no road to the place and the only way of getting to the place at that time was to get to the river bank, enter the boat and cross the river from Sapele to the village. There was no road to the place, no pipe borne water, no electricity. The only thing that was there was the Baptist Primary School and the Baptist Church. The main occupation of the people was fishing and farming. When I got to the school age which averagely then was about six years, I was taken by my grandmother to the school to

I was averagely good. I told my father I wanted to become an accountant but my father was more interested in me becoming a doctor that was how I read medicine. I don’t really regret it.

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rubber farming, that is rubber tapping and general farming which was to plant cassava, plant yam and all that. The rubber tapping was mainly for the men and the cassava planting was for the women. The men would wake up earlier, and there were three cock crows.

The first cock crow will wake you up, the second one was to get ready and third was to enter the road. So by the third crow we were on our way to the rubber plantation and we would put on bush lamp and by the time they finished it would be daybreak.

What they do is that there is a small cup into which they would tap the latex and the latex drops in to the cup. By day break, we would now go and look at our traps. We younger ones had these traps for catching rabbits and if there is a catch, we would take it and then re-set it, but if it doesn’t catch we would leave it, then we’ll go and join the women.

They would have come to the farm by then and would have roasted the yam, plantain and with the palm oil that they brought, and that would be our first breakfast. If it was during school days, we would rush home and get ready and go to school and even with that we

were always the first to get to school because my grandmother made sure of that.

But when it is not a school day, after eating we would get back to the rubber plantation with a bucket and start emptying the various cups into the bucket.

That was what our morning averagely looked like.

Then later in the day, we would go to the river either to wash clothes or fish or just to swim or to play. The river was so clean and had a lot of fish; literally we could put our hands and catch a fish. Of course, in the evening it was story time, our grandmother would gather us to tell us stories or we would go to one elderly person in the village to tell us stories.

But the thing about the village was that it was like a communal life, every adult male was every child’s father and every adult female was every child mother so if you committed an offense anybody seeing you will correct you but I don’t think that is happening now. That was my experience growing up.

Did you ever think then that you would one day become governor?

Did I know what a governor was? (laughter). I didn’t know what a governor was. All through

my primary, secondary and even university, I never had political ambition, I was much more interested in my profession and I wanted to be a successful professional.

As a young man what inspired you?

The truth is that when I was in secondary school what I wanted to become was an accountant, and in terms of academic activities in secondary school, I attended Federal Government College in Warri. In both art and science subjects I was averagely good. I told my father I wanted to become an accountant but my father was more interested in me becoming a doctor that was how I read medicine. I don’t really regret it.

So when you talk of ambition, during secondary school what I wanted to become was an accountant, but when I now started reading medicine I wanted to become a good doctor.

What really brought you into politics?

Actually it was James Ibori that I will say was my first encounter with politics. Now as a medical doctor practising, I was an arm chair politician in the sense that I was politically aware, I could discuss politics but I wasn’t a politician, I didn’t register in a political party and all that. So, when he came and got into politics, I just said let me help him to win election. But when he came, the kind of election he wanted to contest and the area he wanted to contest, I advised him that he would not win in that particular party but he said; well he has been assured and all that, but having gotten the ticket, I said OK, we ran around and he lost.

But he now confessed that it was only the two of us that gave him the correct advice; every other person said he would win.

Of course that is politics.

It was a contest for the House of Representatives during the days of NRC and SDP. That was his first election. So when the GDM started, of course I got in to it naturally and then become active in PDP. As the Governor of Delta State what would you consider your greatest achievement?

I don’t have any achievement that is great, greater, greatest if you want to put it that way.

Well, we mean something that you would say broke some kind of barrier and moved the state forward?

I think everything moved it forward and let me turn the question around maybe you want to know what my legacy is. I don’t have a legacy.

Like I say, politics is about human beings when I look at it professionally from my medical point of view and that is why there is a similarity between politics and medicine. Medicine is about human beings. When you come and

Continues on page 36

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Continues from page 34

My legacy is with the people — Uduaghan have new buses that take people to rural places and people pay 50% of what is normally charged so those people will remember Uduaghan’s bus. So it depends on who is remembering you.

So for me everything you do is important depending on whose life is being touched by what you have done. So, I don’t do things because this is what I want to do, everything is legacy for me.

Can you be able to measure the impact that the Asaba Airport has added economically to Delta state?

It is very difficult to measure.

Let me take two areas. As soon as we started the airport the cost of land in Asaba shot up seriously. You know if you were buying a thousand square metres before at 100 naira, at the time we started the airport, that 100 naira had become 1,000 naira and now it could be like 10,000 naira that is for land.

When you drive around Asaba, between the time we started the airport and now, the population in Asaba has grown, the businesses have increased, small scale businesses have increased, and most of the places that used to be residential, people have now turned them to offices. Now we have three, four, five star hotels coming looking for land, some have started building, and people from Onitsha bought a lot of the land and if you go round Asaba now you will see a lot of warehouses springing up. So

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see me as a doctor with malaria, when I treat you for that malaria you will remember me for the malaria I treated you.

If he came with hernia and I operated the hernia he will say that doctor was the one that operated my hernia, then the other one will say he was the one that treated my malaria.

And it is the same thing with politics, it will depend on what somebody is remembering you for. I will give you an example of a woman living in Ontisha.

She used to fly from Benin to Lagos to see the children. One day I was at the Asaba Airport, the woman came to me and was praying, praying for me and I was just saying amen, amen. When she finished, she now told me the story that she used to fly from Benin and one day she was on her way and now had an accident and nobody knew where she was for three days until they eventually discovered that she was in the hospital and eventually got well. Since then, the fear of driving to Benin to fly to Lagos was so much in her that she could not go to see her children, but now that there is an airport in Asaba, she just drives to the airport and flies to Lagos. So for her, she would remember me forever for the airport.

Now, there was this other woman who saw me as I was inspecting roads one day, she came and was trying to get hold of me, trying to come and embrace me but the security people stopped her and there was a child beside her. Then I told them to leave her and she came, she was holding me, singing and all that.

What was the problem? The child had a condition that was treated free of charge for her, including a surgery that was done free of charge for her because of our under fives free health policy.

So you have a free health policy?

Yes, for under 5 year children. So the woman will remember me because of that.

So if they ask her wetin Uduaghan do for you self, that is what she will say. Of course we also have a free health programme for pregnant women. A woman who before now had some children she delivered in a quack place because she could not pay the hospital bill but now has children who she delivered in our hospitals free of charge. Of course she has two sets of children, this one was born in one quack place outside the hospital while this one was born in the hospital, she can now have children in the hospital, so she will remember me for that.

If you go to some of our communities there is Uduaghan’s bus because we

There is free education up to secondary school level and then at the university, we have increased our grants or bursary to university students by 100%

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commercial activities have increased tremendously as a result of the airport and everywhere, including places that used to be residential, are being turned into commercial places.

Can you tell us the major thrust of your three point agenda?

When we came in 2007, and assessing what we needed to do on ground, we narrowed everything to three key areas; peace and security, infrastructure development and human capital development. And this captured virtually everything we needed to do in government. Two, they are also interwoven. Without peace and security you cannot talk of developing infrastructure because without peace and security and with the problems we had in the Niger Delta there was no way anybody could go and start constructing

roads or schools. And of course, you also require human capital development and so, the three of them were interwoven.

But the ultimate goal of our three point agenda is to start developing an economy not totally dependent on oil, so we have tagged it, Delta beyond oil, having at the back of our mind, the issue of employment.

The problem of unemployment is really the nightmare of anyone in this position, whether it is governor, president, or American president.

We are trying to build an economy that is beyond oil and we have simplified Delta beyond oil, and what that simply means, is that whatever we are getting now in terms of funds from oil let us use it to develop the other areas so that when tomorrow if there are any problem with the oil revenue, whether the oil is not there or there is a shortfall in oil revenue, we would not have the kind of challenge we seem to be having now.

Having that at the back of our mind, we set about developing infrastructure, infrastructure that will attract investments in certain key areas like agriculture, culture and tourism, solid minerals. That is how we embarked upon transport infrastructure which includes the airport and the dualisation of our major highways and the work with the Federal Government to develop our sea ports and to complete the Aladja railway

line.

Off course, we have started our own independent power plant and working with the Federal Government to complete the existing national independent power plant and we have invested heavily on that.

We have also invested heavily on transmission equipment, distribution equipment like transformers.

Hopefully by the time all these investments mature, the improved power in Delta...we also invested in the power plants that were sold, especially the ones that are in Delta and the Benin distribution facility.

We did that so that we can have a lot of improvement in power supply.

We have also invested in industrial zones and clusters, Warri Industrial Park and other parks that are springing up. But you know, these investments are quite heavy and are long term in nature and the way unemployment is in Nigeria, you need some quick wins and that is why as we are doing the long term, we are also doing the short term like our micro-credit scheme and in the agricultural area, we embarked on what we call YETA, Youth Employment Through Agriculture and setting them up and also helping existing farmers to improve upon their yield in both quality and quantity.

Those are some of the things we have done as quick wins to ensure that our people are empowered. But having said that, don’t also forget the social infrastructure which will also help manpower development.

In the area of education, we are working on our schools, improving the quality of our schools, the infrastructure, the quality of the teachers and off course, also making it free and accessible even to the poor.

There is free education up to secondary school level and then at the university, we have increased our grants or bursary to university students by 100% and of course, and apart from other scholarship schemes we have at the university level, when you finish university and you get a first class, it is automatic scholarship (for postgraduate work) worth N5 million a year. Many of the recipients are outside the country studying now.

So far, how many do you have under the scheme?

So far, we have about 185.

Are they mandated to come back to serve the state when they are done with their studies?

We expect them to come back to serve the state but I also have this opinion that we should not restrain them if they have better job offers. For instance, a child we have sent to school who got a PhD and Mobil was doing a head hunt... I will not want him Continues on page 37 C M Y K

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My legacy is with the people — Uduaghan Continues from page 36

dissolution of the board, to ensure that there will no longer be crisis between the board and the members of the House of Assembly?

Yes we have resolved the issues. Two members of the board did not come back. And I can say that so far so good, I am satisfied with what the board is doing now. So I can say that they are working.

How have you been able to stem the tide of kidnapping and other forms of insecurity that once bedevilled the state and at what cost?

Starting from the cost, nobody can tell you the cost of security because there are visible and invisible costs of maintaining security. The visible ones are the ones you see, while the invisible ones are the ones you cant see. For instance, if I have an informant somewhere, I cant tell you how much I pay the informant.

So, do you have informants?

There is no security conscious government that does not work with intelligence. You can monitor this house now without my knowing. You can monitor this house now without my knowing and can be paying somebody in this house and getting information about this house but will not disclose to anybody what you are paying the person.

Kidnapping is a fallout of small arms that became readily available after major crises like the Niger Delta crisis. If you are able to settle Boko Haram crisis today, the arms and ammunition that would be available will easily fall into

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to come and be a civil servant when there is an offer for him from Mobil. One day that child might become the MD, but if you say that he must come and serve in Delta first, he would have lost that opportunity. If they don’t have job elsewhere and they want to come and serve in the state, fine.

You mentioned micro credit scheme, there was a time you were winning CBN awards in that sector but you are no longer. Why? We are not interested in winning awards. So at a time people thought our micro credit scheme was all about winning awards.

But to what extent has the scheme touched the populace?

The stage we are in now, we have moved the scheme now to small and medium scale enterprises. That is what we are concentrating on now. Most of the initial micro businesses have grown to medium and small scale enterprises and even exporting their products. Some now have NAFDAC certification and are now exporting. Some even have outlets outside Nigeria. I believe that you can grow a business from the micro level to the macro level and many of the businesses in developed countries started as micro businesses.

We are identifying those that have potentials and funding them more so that they can grow into big businesses.

To what extent has DESOPADEC helped in achieving peace in the oil producing areas of the state?

What was the reason for the dissolution of the last board?

The law setting up DESOPADEC was started by my predecessor, but I started running the commission when I came in. The dissolution of the board was done last year. The law establishing it empowered me to nominate the board members and forward the list to the House of Assembly for clearance and approval. But after that, I am the person that the law gave the powers to also dissolve the board. I think they had some challenges and they were invited by the House of Assembly, whereupon the House dissolved the board. But we notified them that they did not have the legal right to do so. But they complained that the board was doing some things that were not right. We applied a political solution to it and I dissolved the board myself and set up a new one.

Have they been able to resolve the issue that led to the

It is to make everyone understand that what we are doing in any part of the state is for the benefit of the whole state and one way or the other, the whole state benefits from it.

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hands that would use them for other criminal activities. So kidnapping, piracy were fallouts of the Niger delta crisis and it became very challenging. But what we have done so far is to approach it in various ways like using intelligence, education and security. We tried to involve the traditional rulers, churches, communities and hotels in activities geared towards confronting kidnapping. And also, we identified places that are either hideout for the kidnappers or where they take their victims to.

What were the challenges in managing a multi-cultural state like Delta?

I can say that it was challenging but, the bottom line is: be fair to all. Let everybody have a sense of belonging in terms of appointments, in terms of infrastructure distribution.

Naturally some people will still feel that they are not getting as other people are getting, but

it is to make them realise that there are some areas you would need to naturally need to pay more attention to. It is natural that you pay more attention to the state capital. It is also important that you pay more attention to a commercial area like Warri.

So, if you notice, we have paid more attention to Asaba and now Warri also while not ignoring the other areas. It is not as if the grumbling is over, but it is not the way it used to be. But it to let them know that every part of the state is important and whatever we are doing in any part, has a relationship with other parts.

For instance, the Asaba airport is not only utilized by Asaba people. Now, anybody going to Isoko area, I know they used to go through Warri, but now that there is Asaba Airport and we are dualising the Asaba/Warri road by the time we finish the dualisation, from Asaba to a place in Isoko area will take nothing more than forty five minutes. So, instead of that drive that takes you hours to Benin to catch a flight, you now can do that through Asaba.

It is to make everyone understand that what we are doing in any part of the state is for the benefit of the whole state and one way or the other, the whole state benefits from it. So ethnic issues may not have been totally resolved, but it is much more reduced. Secondly, everybody now knows that because of my background, the ethnic group I come from, everybody has a sense of belonging, that anybody could be anything in Delta. You know at a point, some people were saying that only this group of people that could be governor or that. That I was able to be a governor, that means that anybody from any part of the state could as well become a governor.

So, do you believe that with Delta South and Delta Central having produced the governor that it is now the turn of Delta North to produce the next governor?

Deltans will decide. Delta people will decide that.

What is your own personal opinion on this?

My position is too sensitive for me to start airing my personal conviction. Deltans will sit down and decide whether this time it should go to the North or not.

As the leader of the party in the state, do we foresee you convening a stakeholders’ meeting, to take a decision on the matter?

As I move along, I am discussing. People are consulting me, I am consulting them and I will know that there is a gravitation.

What is your assessment of the amnesty programme?

Reasonably, so far so good.

There are grumblings here and there. Like anything human,

people will grumble. There are some ethnic groups who are grumbling that they were not carried along, that the emphasis has been on those that carried arms and that what happens to those that did not carry arms.

There are grumblings here and there, but I don’t regret being part of those who brought about the amnesty because I think it has achieved results.

Do the recent meetings of the South-South and South East governors have bearing towards 2015?

Even this interview has something to do with 2015! (laughter) Once two or more governors are gathered, there must be political undertones to it. But basically it was not for 2015, but really it was for economic integration of the two zones. We have a lot in common and we believe that we should come together and deal with issues that affect us on the economic side and also on the security side. We thought that coming together and seeing what we can do together on common issues like security.

We also believe that since we produced the president that we should also give him the maximum support and make contact with our colleagues outside the zone to also encourage them to support the president.

Are you ruling out your colleagues in Rivers and Edo States from this process?

Attending the meeting is a matter of choice. You decide on who you want to associate with.

But whether they are there or not and when the programmes come out and you have not been attending but if you find out that our programmes will be beneficial to your state, you are free to adopt it. It is not necessarily their presence that matters.

Do you think that the defection of five governors from your party and some members of the National Assembly to the APC, would affect the fortunes of the PDP? No, no. The way PDP is, PDP is the only party that started out in 1998 that is still existing and bearing its name. Why I am saying so is that if you look through most wards in the whole Nigeria, you will either see the PDP as the number one party or as the number two party. So on ground, it is still a very, very strong party. At the grassroots, it is still a very strong party and it is a party that is going to beat nationally.

Having said that there is no doubt that we have challenges and if you understand politics very well, you would know that if you lose one member from your party it is a problem. It is more if you lose one leader and so, no one is saying that the fact that these five governors are gone will not affect the party.

Or that they should go to hell.

We know that it is a challenge that we have lost five governors and we know the role of governors when it comes to elections but we also believe that we can still win elections if we do a few things.

38—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

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Dangote, the man with a Midas touch

By OMOH GABRIEL, Business Editor went on a media blitz to decry the uncertainty caused by the fiscal cliff. In such uncertain times, they say, they are hesitant to invest in the US economy.

I departed Washington in the midst of these rumblings to attend a forum of Africa’s leading CEOs. Here’s a quick sample of the scheduled participants: Aliko Dangote, CEO of Dangote Cement. He’s building a $2 billion fertilizer plant in his native Nigeria. He recently announced the next two growth markets for sizeable investment by his group are Iraq and Myanmar.

“For Dangote and many other executives in frontier markets, uncertainty is not the inhibitor of opportunity. It is the condition in which opportunity arises. That is a reasonable perspective to look for in American CEOs as well.”

The moving force behind private enterprise all over the world is what Adam Smith described as the invisible hand that allocates resources in the most uncertain environment.

It is real entrepreneurs that see opportunity in very risky areas, yet go in there with the hope of making profit.

Business is about taking risk and any local entrepreneur

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hen on 10th of April 1957, a male child was born in Kano, little was heard or known of the child. Like Shakespeare wrote in one of his epic books, Julius Caesar, when beggars die there are no comets seen but the heavens themselves blaze the death of Princes. In some dynasty and royalties, when kings are born, they are celebrated. That was not the case in Kano when Aliko Dangote was born. He was just like any other child.

He, like other children, learnt to crawl, walk and run. He cried like others but at school he was focused on what he chose to do.

He probably discovered his destiny early enough and keyed into it. In his words: “I can remember when I was in primary school, I would go and buy cartons of sweets (sugar boxes) and I would start selling them just to make money. I was so interested in business, even at that time.”

Dangote, right from when he was young had his eyes on business.

He had always, as all real entrepreneurs do, see opportunities where others see high risk and failure. In an atmosphere of difficulty, when others would have given up, he took the risk. He is known for taking great risks in a highly risky environment.

He has grown to have a Midas touch in every business he ventured into. He started as a commodity trader, he made success of it, he entered into sugar refining, and he made success of it. He set up cement manufacturing; he has made a huge success of it.

Now he is venturing into petroleum product refining.

His hard work has set him apart to the envy of his detractors who only see in him as a beneficiary of government waiver and concession. But there are others who have had the same benefit but could not make any thing tangible from it.

That has brought success to him, his family, state and his country. He has invested in the various sectors of the Nigerian economy and across the African continent thus creating millions of direct and indirect jobs in the continent of Africa. He has become a business colossus that bestrides the global business environment, making him the richest African today.

In one of the articles written

by Jonathan Berman in Harvard Business review entitled American CEOs should Stop Complaining about Uncertainty, he wrote how uncertainty has not deterred Aliko Dangote from investing in Nigeria and across Africa. In the write- up Barman said: “This month, the chief executive officers of America’s biggest companies

The Dangote Group has also moved from being a trading company to being the largest industrial group in Nigeria and these include: Dangote Sugar Refinery, Dangote Cement , and Dangote Flour just to mention but a few.

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that is not ready to take risk is not a genuine businessman.

Dangote saw opportunities in the very uncertain and tough business environment in Nigeria. From trading in rice, sugar and other commodities, he veered into manufacturing in an environment many foreign and local investors see as very risky.

Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s business empire is estimated at a net worth of $20.8 billion as of November 2013 spanning interests in commodities with operations in Nigeria and several other countries in Africa , including Benin , Cameroon , Togo , Ghana , South Africa and Zambia . Dangote in 2013 was ranked by Forbes Magazine

as the 43rd richest person in the world and the richest man in Africa based on his investment and the listing of his companies’ interest at the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

Taking some of his companies to the exchange has given other Nigerians opportunities to share in his success and has shown that he operates his companies in an open manner. .

Early life Alhaji Aliko Dangote, a northerner, precisely from Kano State, Nigeria was born on the 10th of April 1957 into a wealthy Muslim family. He studied business from the AlAzhar University in Cairo, Egypt and thereafter returned to Nigeria to borrow from his uncle Sanusi Abdulkadir Dantata, would eventually provided him a loan of ?

500,000 when he was just 21 years old to start a business.

Business career The Dangote Group which started as a small trading firm was established in the year 1977. Today, it is a multitrillion naira conglomerate with many of its operations in Benin , Ghana , Nigeria , and Togo . At present, Dangote has enlarged his line of businesses to also cover food processing, cement manufacturing, and freight.

The Dangote Group also dominates the sugar and cement market in Nigeria and is a major sugar supplier to the Nigeria’s soft drink companies, breweries , and confectioners . The Dangote Group has also moved from being a trading company to being the largest industrial group in Nigeria and these include: Dangote Sugar Refinery , Dangote Cement , and Dangote Flour just to mention but a few. He plans to set up the largest petroleum product refinning facility in Nigeria.

In the month of July 2012, he approached the Nigerian Ports Authority with the idea of leasing an abandoned piece of land at the Apapa Port, which was welcomed and approved. He later went to build facilities for his flour company there. So also in the 90’s, he approached the Central Bank of Nigeria with the idea that it would be cheaper for the bank to allow his transport company to manage their fleet of staff buses which was also approved.

It is indeed, the largest refinery in Africa and the third largest in the world producing 800,000 tonnes of sugar annually. He owns the Obajana cement plant which

Continues on page 39

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014—39

Continues from page 38 is the largest cement manufacturing facility in Africa. Apart from these, Dangote Group owns salt factories and flour mills and also being a major importer of rice, fish, pasta and fertilizer.

The company exports cotton, cashew nuts, cocoa, sesame seed and ginger to several countries. It also has major investments in real estate, banking, transport, textiles and oil and gas.

The company employs over 11,000 people and is the largest industrial conglomerate in the whole of West Africa. Dangote is also exploring telecommunications and has started building 14,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables to supply the whole of Nigeria and as a result, he was honoured in January 2009 as the leading provider of employment in the Nigerian construction industry. Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, continues to expand his publicly traded Dangote Cement across the continent, announcing plans to build new plants in Kenya and Niger. With operations in about eight countries, it is the largest cement manufacturer in sub-Sahara Africa.

In May, 2013 Dangote said he would build a $9 billion oil refinery and petrochemical complex in Nigeria. When completed, it will be Nigeria’s first and Africa’s largest petroleum refinery.

His words; “As an investor who believes in Nigeria, knows Nigeria well and whose prosperity was made in Nigeria, we have responded to the challenge with our decision to invest $ 9 billion in a refinery/petrochemical and fertilizer complex to be located at the OKLNG Free Trade Zone. This complex will be the largest industrial complex project ever in the history of our great nation. The project had effectively taken off, with the award of the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract to Saipem of Italy for the fertilizer plant. The Basic Engineering Design and optimisation for the refinery has also been awarded. When completed, the fertilizer plant would produce 2.75 metric tons per annum of urea and ammonia; while the refinery would process 400, 000 barrels of crude oil per day.

The refinery would produce a higher grade of premium motor spirit, popularly known as petrol, compared to what is currently being imported into the country. According to him, in addition to high grade petrol, the refinery would produce diesel, aviation fuel, household kerosene, slurry as raw material for carbon black, as well as 650,000 metric tons of polypropylene per annum.

Dangote, the man with a Midas touch Dangote’s mission is to reverse the current situation in which Nigeria has not only become a net importer in her trade relations with nations of the world but also of products for which it has comparative advantage. He said “Our mission is to through industrialisation, reverse the historical trend of the export of foreign exchange and jobs and

replace it with foreign exchange conservation and job creation;” promising to replicate his success story in the cement industry where he has turned the nation from an importer to a current level of self-sufficiency and with potentials for exports within a short while.

If the refinery and the petrochemical plant come on

stream, Nigeria will reclaim its place of pride as one of the largest exporters of fertilizer, refined products and other petrochemical products, to consolidate on its efforts in ensuring the rapid development and the contribution of Africa to the global economy.

The billionaire plans to spend up to $350 million to build a new

cement plant in the Republic of Niger which will boost Dangote Cement ’s annual output by 1.5 million tonnes. He made the announcement after a meeting with Niger ’s President Issoufou Mahamadou in the capital, Niamey. Dangote said the new cement plant will produce its own electricity and any surplus will be channeled to Niamey’s power grid. The new venture is expected to create 6,000 to 7,000 jobs. At the moment, Niger has only one cement plant, built in 1964, which produces a mere 40,000 tonnes annually. The country relies heavily on cement imports from Nigeria.

Dangote Cement is the largest cement producer on the continent and its ambitious founder is aggressively pursuing growth across the continent. In September, Dangote announced that he will invest $400 million to build a cement plant in Kenya. The company aims to achieve an annual production of 55 million tonnes by 2016 and is investing $5 billion to build cement plants across the continent.

On the 14th of November, 2011, Dangote was awarded a National Honour, Nigeria’s second highest honour, Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON ) by the President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan .

Apart from his business acumen, he is also a philanthropist who has collaborated with American billionaire, Bill Gates Foundation to invest the provision of health especially the eradication of polio in Africa and other parts of the world where the disease is still prevalent.

Uduaghan: Bringing forth Delta State Continues from page 32 poverty. We saw a cluster group that started with nothing, and now they are exporting to Europe”.

The Uduaghan administration has also taken major initiatives in road infrastructure, rehabilitating and where not, reconstructing some of the major roads it inherited.

The administration has also taken strategic steps in restructuring the transportation model within and outside the state. One of the most visible efforts in that direction was the decision to build an airport in Asaba, the state capital. That development also imparted largely in the economic bearing of the state especially in the state capital, boosting economic production in and around the state capital.

The construction of an airport has also made Asaba and its environs an attractive venue for meetings, conferences and also, boosted the town’s attraction as a camp ground for the movie industry.

The achievements of the Uduaghan administration in two of its key objectives of human capital and infrastructure development were tied to the third leg of the regime’s three point agenda, peace and security.

Dr. Uduaghan in his nearly seven years in office has pursued peace passionately, putting personal and political preferences to the background.

Dr. Uduaghan was an early advocate of the Amnesty Programme and has pursued peace with all stakeholders with a maturity that has calmed the tensions that hitherto characterized relations among the many ethnic groups in the state.

No doubt, the Uduaghan administration has been challenged in the form of insecurity with kidnappings, robberies and pipeline vandalism. The administration has, however, responded with a heavy investment in reshaping the security infrastructure to match the evolving techniques of the underworld.

The investments have largely paid off with drastically reduced breaches of the

peace.

That ambience has recently allowed the articulation of a new socio-economic policy by the administration with a gaze towards putting the state’s economy outside the shocks of oil revenue.

The mantra in Delta State presently, is Delta Beyond Oil, a policy framework that focuses on positioning the state in good position to weather the vagaries of oil revenue.

Of course Governor Uduaghan has not changed Delta State into an El Dorado, but few doubt his focus or his steadfastness towards making the state far better than he met it. The challenge of addressing infrastructure needs in the state with the highest number of urban towns, calming frayed nerves in a multi-ethnic state and leading a state with one of the highest collections of intellectuals are undoubtedly enormous. But Dr. Uduaghan has in the consideration of Vanguard editors made positive strides in these directions and hence his nomination as the Man of the Year, 2013.

40—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

INNOCENT CHUKWUMA: Most Innovative entrepreneur 2013

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R. Innocent Chukwu ma, Chairman of In noson Vehicles Manufacturing Co. Ltd, the first indigenous vehicle manufacturing plant in Nigeria was born in 1961 in Umudim, Nnewi, Anambra. He is the last of six children born to Mr. and Mrs. Chukwuma Mojekwu of Uru-Umudim Nnewi, Anambra State. After his education, he started trading in spare parts under the name Innoson Nigeria Ltd in 1981.

His company is third after Leventis and Boulos Enterprises in assembling branded motorcycles in the country.

His business has metamorphosed into four manufacturing companies namely: Innoson Nigeria Limited Nnewi, manufacturers of motorcycles, tri-cycles, spare parts and accessories; Innoson Tech. & Industries Co. Ltd Enugu, manufacturers of Household and Industrial Plastics, Health & Safety accessories, Storage containers, Fixtures & Fittings, Electrical components & accessories; Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) Nnewi, manufacturers of Capacity City bus, Mini & Midi buses, PickUp trucks and Garbage Collecting vehicles; General Tyres & Tubes Co. Ltd Enugu, manufacturers of Tyres and Tubes.

The vehicles in IVM fleet range from cars, trucks, SUVs, compactors, etc . Presently, the company has made in-road into some African countries such as Ghana, Sierra Leone, Chad, Niger, Togo.

As the first indigenous motor manufacturing company in Nigeria, he says he wanted to prove that Nigerians can do it.

This he says has been proved.

According to him, the inspiration to go into vehicle manu-

facturing was drawn from a desire to see Nigerians drive new cars. “Nigeria has become a dumping ground for second hand cars. I know it was the high price of new vehicles that made Nigerians resort to patronising old vehicles, but since we decided to manufacture the vehicles here, the price is affordable, and our people can drive new vehicles again,” he told Vanguard in a recent interview.

When the company began, no one gave him a chance. He recalled that not so many believe it will work, but today, ” they can attest to the fact that it’s working. People from other countries are coming to copy what I did to replicate it in their own country”.

This story success has ensured employment for about 7,400 Nigerians who work in the company’s factory.

For his efforts, he has been made Deputy Chairman, Board of Trustees, National Coalition for Jonathan/Sambo Presidency, November 2013; The honorary Life Vice President of Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (NACCIMA) on November 23, 2013; Ambassador for Peace by St. Andrews Anglican Church, Trans Ekulu, Enugu, April, 2012; Entrepreneur of the Year by Wesley University of Science and Technology, Akure, Ondo State, March 2012.

He is also Most Outstanding Indigenous Entrepreneur in the Manufacturing Sector

by Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA) in January 2012; National Council Member, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria. Conferred the National Honour of the Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR) on November 2011

by His Excellency, President Goodluck Jonathan; Awarded Doctorate Degree in Business Administration (DBA) by Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu in November 2011 amongst several other awards. Dr. Chukwuma who loves playing tennis is married to Ebele and they are blessed with children.

During an earlier interview with him, he recalls that : “I

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By JUDITH UFFORD

As the first indigenous motor manufacturing company in Nigeria, he says he wanted to prove that Nigerians can do it.

This he says has been proved.

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started as a small business man dealing on spare parts at Nnewi. At that time, people were bringing only second hand motorcycles to Nigeria, and I felt there should be a way to reduce the price of the new ones, so that people will be interested enough to buy new ones, rather than the second hand motorcycles.

“I travelled overseas and found out that there were four companies importing motorcycles into Nigeria. First was Leventis that was bringing the Honda brand, the second company was Yamaco that was bringing Yamaha, the other company was Bolus that was bringing Suzuki and the fourth

was CFAO that was bringing moblet.

“These were the companies that were dealing on motorcycle in Nigeria, and my company was the next one. So when I went there, I discovered that when they brought the motorcycles in crate and each crate contained one motorcycle which took a lot of space and you can put about 40 units in one 40ft container.

In one container with 40 units of motorcycles in a 40ft container, the motorcycle will become expensive. So after evaluating it, I went to overseas and packed 200 units in one 40ft container and my price came down by 40%. Of course, this was cheaper.”

How was he able to pack 20 units into one container? His response was simply ingenious: “Because of my experience in spare parts, I knocked it down and brought them here, and arranged mechanics to assemble them, to couple them manually. The first five containers I brought in took me about three months to sell. I went back and brought another ten containers which took me about one month. I went and brought twenty containers and it took one week, and when I brought fifty containers, people were now paying in advance before they landed.

“There was a time I was bringing 200 containers of motorcycles every month and spread them across Nigeria.

Because of that idea, my own price was cheaper by 40%, before other people saw what I was doing and followed suit.

That is why today, motorcycle price crashed to N60, 000 from a high price of N150, 000 in the past.

“It was in the course of doing this that I discovered that

there are a lot of plastics in a motorcycle, and that is one of the reasons I set up a plastic plant to produce the plastics components locally. These are some of the things I did to bring down the cost of motorcycle to about N60,000. Today, nobody thinks of buying second hand motorcycle anymore in Nigeria. Everybody wants to buy new one because new one is cheap, and I am going to do the same thing with motor vehicles.

“In the near future, you find out that all these “Tokunbo” vehicles in Nigeria will not work out as people will prefer the new ones. With the support of Nigerians, we will see that we will be there.

“Today, we are importing engines; we are importing certain components for motor manufacturing, but after sometimes, we will make them here.

With the support of Nigerians and the government we will make everything here, then Nigeria will be the first in Africa to manufacture full made in Nigeria vehicles. According to Dr. Chukwuma, the vehicle factory was set up for the entire African continent and not Nigeria alone. Said he said: “In the near future, I’m sure we will take over the motor business in Africa. This of course is with the support of Nigerians.” To this end, the federal government has directed all MDAs to patronise locally made vehicles and other goods. Inspite of this good intention and directive of the federal government, Dr. Chukwuma observed that “sometimes some ministries would prefer Toyota or other brands that they have used for 50 years. They don’t want to try our made-in-Nigeria brand.

But the ministries that have taken the bold step of using our products, are happy they did”.

The Innoson boss would boast beating his chest that the Innoson brand is comparable to any in the world and that spare parts are no problem.

“Presently, our manufacturing plant at Nnewi is built to service the entire African continent, and good enough we have been meeting up with market demands. Our strategy is to plan futuristically, knowing that huge orders will come, and as it stands today, we are able to meet up with the huge demands. We have the manpower and modern technology to cope with expected challenges.”

Recently, at the Federal Executive Council meeting, the Minister of Trade and Investment revealed that the multinational Nissan company has written that they want to partner with Innoson in vehicle manufacturing in Nigeria.

While Dr. Chukwuma, acknowledged this development, he was not so willing to let the cat out of the bag. According to him, I’m aware that they have made such move, and on our part, we are ready to go into any cooperation that will boost the nation’s economy, and lead to increased productivity and provision of jobs for our youths.

VANGU ARD, WEDNESD AY, JANU ARY 1, 2014 ANGUARD, WEDNESDA JANUARY

— 41

I never appreciated his love Dear Bunmi, AM still in love with an ex boyfriend, we grew up and went to school together. For three years, on and off, we were a couple. We broke up two years ago, but run into each other from time to time. We’ve seen other people since our break up. I’ve had other serious partners, but I always find myself comparing them with him. They just don’t seem to match up, so my relationships end.

We broke up because we were young and I took advantage of my boyfriend’s good nature. We split up many times, hit I always knew he’d have me back. I was selfish and I didn’t consider his feelings. He forgave me every time until he’d had enough and ended our relationship.

I regret everything I put him through. He was funny, clever, good looking and always there when I needed him. He was everything I could ever want in a partner. I’d do anything to turn back the clock. So when my best friend told me recently that he asked for my mobile number, I couldn’t stop thinking about him.

Should we try again?

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I want to lose my virginity Dear Bunmi, WILL be celebrating my 18th birthday soon. I have been going out with my boyfriend for sometime now and I am still a virgin. However, I have promised to make love with him after my 18th birthday and have told him to buy some condoms as I

I

don’t want to be saddled with an unwanted pregnancy.

I am still a student and my parents are old fashioned, so I can’t ask them about contraception.

My boyfriend said I shouldn’t worry as I couldn’t possible get pregnant the first time I make love. Is he right?

My girl's friend has dumped me Dear Bunmi, Y GIRLFRIEND and I started a relationship in our undergraduate years. She currently shares a flat with a close friend of hers and everything was okay until the day I visited and discovered my girlfriend wasn’t back from work.

I hung around the flat, as it was obvious her flat-mate was in distress over a failed relationship. I tried to console her and was surprised when we started making love.

Since that fateful day, I’ve made love to her several times. She usually sends me text messages when my girl is out and I would rush to her flat for quickies with her.

Now she has found herself a new lover. This new man is not her type at all and because of him, she has stopped texting me. I went to the flat a few times I was sure my girl wouldn’t be there, but she refused to let us make love. She said she felt bad betraying a friend and wouldn’t do it again.

Well, where was that conscience of hers all those times she was texting me to come and make love with her? I feel used and dumped and want to retaliate.

Nduka by e-mail

M

Dear Nduka, I don’t know what your problem is apart from the fact that your ego is bruised. First, you betrayed your girlfriend with a woman who lives under the same roof with her. You made love as often as she beckoned and now that she had picked herself from the depth of despair, you’re crying foul! You might feel

used but you used her vulnerability when she finished with her ex to get into her pants. In other words, you both used each other.

Respect her wish and move on.

It’s obvious the relationship you have with your girlfriend is not strong enough for you to be faithful to her. You have to reassess your feelings for her and with you hurting over being refused love-making by her flat mate, you are in for a long road to recovery.

M

Dear Modesta, There is absolutely nothing stopping you from getting pregnant when you make love, be it your first or your hundredth.

When puberty begins, your ovaries start producing eggs. The result? Your first period. Apart from the odd occasion, everyone who has a period produces an egg, and so there’s always a chance of getting pregnant.

So until you make a solid arrangement with your boyfriend as to the best term of contraception to adopt, I would put lovemaking on hold for now if I were you. Eighteen is definitely young. Get a lot of education on love-making - you have your whole world ahead of you, so plan to have meaningful erotic life.

Am I getting love-making right?

Dear Bunmi, : ’M ALMOST 20 and my girlfriend, who attends the same university as tne is two years younger. We met early last year and love each other to bits.

A couple of months ago, we decided that we wanted to lose our virginity together, but when we made love, I climaxed in less than five minutes. My girlfriend assured me that this didn’t matter and I should forget about it Since then, we’ve made love thrice more. Each time, the same thing has happened. I feel very embarrassed and I don’t want it to ruin our relationship. Do you think there is something wrong with me?

Sam, by e-mail,

I

Dear Sam, For a novice at love-making, you’re exercising remarkable self-control and should congratulate yourself. Believe me; a lot of men would give their right arm

My son-in-law is a religious freak!

Dear Bunmi, Y ELDEST daughter just turned 30. A few years ago, she and her husband joined an extreme religious group.

Since then, she has become judgemental and a bit excessive in her behaviour. I accept her life to be her own to do what she likes, but she and her husband, who is from a religious family, keep trying to convert me.

They say I’ll go to hell if I don’t follow the tenets of their religion.

I find their attitude offensive. I get the feeling that they will keep on trying to ‘win’ rny soul for Christ in their own way, with the hope that I’ll eventually come

Modesta, by e-mail.

round to their way of thinking.

This is causing resentment and it scares me. They've been going round the country from time to time to convert ‘sinners.’

Taye, by e-mail.

Dear Taye, It’s very unfortunate that you’re being harassed by your daughter and her husband. The standard line of many evangelical groups is that you’ll be damned if you don’t join their sect. This is intimidating and a very offensive form of salesmanship. You feel you're being coerced by someone who is your flesh and blood to go with their beliefs, making her

to go for five minutes! Men are designed to make love quickly.

It’s only recently that more couples have discovered the pleasure of prolonged love-making.

Taking time allows the woman a chance to reach orgasm too, and gives both partners immense pleasure.

The joy of lovemaking soon becomes as much about travelling as about arriving. Yet, this requires the male to distract himself from his ultimate mission and to focus on what comes before.

The trick takes a while to learn.

If you feel you’re about to climax after five minutes, when you’d prefer to wait until 15 or 50 minutes have passed, withdraw, change position or think about something else.

But love-making is not about the man or the woman giving a world-class performance - the great thrill is simply sharing love with the person you love and adore.

a menacing stranger to you.

Your daughter, as you rightly pointed out, is making her own way in life. Having married into a religious family and pledged herself to a sect, she feels she can’t back out without losing her husband and facing damnation.

She dare not say she has doubts about this sect and might be afraid to admit it.

Tell her she needs to be more tolerant towards others' religious beliefs too. For now, tell her religious topics are out when they visit. She’s a new convert. With time, she’ll learn to know when and where to convert and when to leave.

Winifred, By e-mail Dear Winifred, ‘Not on your life! Now that you’re having a tough time finding the partner you need, you’re idealising your ex who was very far from right. This former boyfriend might be the nicest, kindest and most handsome bloke in the world, but you couldn’t sustain a relationship with him. This wasn’t because you were young.

The relationship failed because you didn't want it to succeed. The break-ups allowed you to vent your anger on a man whose embrace you sometimes found stifling and unwelcome. His always begging for another chance was flattering, walking all over him was a thrill. Eventually, the worm turned!

He may foolishly be tempted to take you back again to have a last fling, if he realises you’d like to undo some of the hurt for which you were so often responsible. But don’t. We need to walk away from repeatedly and hopelessly broken relationships, don't try again and again to fix them!

The relationship failed because you didn't want it to succeed. He may foolishly be tempted to take you back ..., if he realises you’d like to undo some of the hurt for which you were so often responsible. But don’t.

We need to walk away from repeatedly and hopelessly broken relationships...

Am 1 losing my libido?

Dear Bunmi, ’M NOW in my 40s and live alone though I’ve had a couple of kids from two women. At the moment, I have sexual relationships with my girlfriend but the problem is that I don’t feel satisfied with my level of orgasm. It is somewhat mechanical and centred on my genital area only -1 never seem to be able to lose myself in the joy sex should bring. What am I doing wrong? Or could I be losing my libido?

Diran, by e-mail.

I

Dear Diran, It sounds as though your anxiety may be getting in the way.

Try to analyse what goes on in your head during sex. Are you concerned about “giving a good performance”? Are unrelated or unpleasant thoughts intruding?

Are you unnecessarily worried about you or your partner reaching a climax (or the timing of it)? Being too goal-oriented always reduces one’s level of

pleasure. With a willing partner, try engaging in non-genital sex - you may be surprised at the heightened eroticism achievable and the discovery of other erogenous zones. Losing oneself in the moment involves focusing on pleasurable sensation.

Unfortunately, some people are so focused on the pleasure of their partners that they have lacklustre orgasms themselves. If this applies to you, it’s time to allow yourself to receive as well as to give. If you tend to be anxious, learn meditation, yoga or calming breathing techniques and physical exercise should help.

Any kind of stress will negatively affect your enjoyment of sex, but the key to better sex often lies in achieving a deeper level of true intimacy with one special person, rather man having less meaningful sex with a number of partners. “^ The relaxation and confidence that can accompany an emotionally satisfying relationship may just be what you need.

Share your problems and release your burden. Write now to Dear Bunmi, Vanguard Newspapers, P.M.B 1007, Apapa, Lagos. or bunmsof@yahoo.co.uk

42 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2013

Ne w yyear ear special edition New

2014 SPECIAL: Emenike’s New Year wish S uper Eagles striker Emmanuel Emenike has said that he will aim to do more for both country and club in the coming year. Emenike was AFCON 2013 top scorer with four goals and led Nigeria to book a place at the 2014 FIFA World Cup with four goals in the qualifiers.

Fenerbache are top of the Turkish league going into the new year and there is also the World Cup in Brazil in June.

The striker was also listed among the best 100 players in the world for 2013 by English tabloid The Guardian. ”It is a great feeling for me to be ranked among the best 100 players in the world where the likes on Lionel Messi, Ronaldo and co featured, I really feel excited to be on that list,” Emenike said. ”I am not being carried away, I need to work harder. I know I really need to do more than what I am doing at the moment.

•Emenike

It has been a great year in my life and career, it has been full of successes for me.

“It is a year I can’t forget in a hurry, but I am looking forward to have a better year in 2014.

“I don’t want to be specific in terms of the honours or what I wish to achieve next year, but I wish to achieve more with Nigeria and my club. I still have a lot to give and only time will speak for me, I will not rush.”

The powerfully-built 26-year-old is also on the list of players vying for African Footballer of the Year 2013 alongside compatriots Mikel Obi, Ahmed Musa and Vincent Enyeama, and he said, all the players listed by CAF deserve to win the award. ”Individual honour is not the priority. My first priority when I am on the field for my country and club is collective victory. If my team mates work for me to score goals, or I do same for them, it is all for the team’s success because football is a team game, like a family affair,” he insisted.

Fulham anxiously waiting on Berbatov fitness test F

Ev er o Ever ertton aim tto continue good run E

verton will be aiming to continue were they left off in the new year when they face Stoke City in a Barclays Premier League encounter at the Britannia Stadiumon this afternoon. The Toffees beat Southampton 2-1 on Sunday to leapfrog Merseyside rivals Liverpool into fourth, subsequently ending 2013 in the final Champions League spot. Stoke on the other hand suffered a 3-0 loss at Tottenham Hotspur, as a result the Potters are in 12th spot at the halfway point.

The loss was Stoke’s second in succession, before their loss to Spurs they were thumped 5-1 by Newcastle United on Tyneside. Joel Robles could continue between the sticks for the Toffees ahead of the returning Tim Howard who reserved a ban after being sent off in the loss to Sunderland.

ULHAM manager Rene Meulensteen is anxiously waiting on a late fitness test on key striker Dimitar Berbatov before today ’s crunch relegation clash with West Ham. Berbatov has missed the last three games with a groin problem, but Meulensteen is confident he will be fit, as will midfielder Adel Taarabt.

Scott Parker will return after missing Satutrday’s 6-0 thrashing at Hull, and defender Philippe Senderos is also available. Meulensteen said: “We have a few niggles to look at. Dimitar and Adel are facing fitness tests, with Dimitar on his groin and Adel with his ankle. “Dimitar is very important to us. Every week and every game he has a late fitness test and we have been very, very aware with all the games coming close together that there is a risk we could lose him for more games.”Goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenberg though is still out injured so David Stockdale will keep his place.Meulensteen added: “You don’t lift the players after a result like that - the players have to lift themselves.

•Berbatov

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2013 — 43

Ne w yyear ear special edition New

EPL Matches today Swansea Arsenal Crystal Palace Fulham Liverpool Southampton Stoke City Sunderland West Brom Man Utd

v v v v v v v v v v

Man City Cardiff City Norwich City West Ham Hul City Chelsea Everton Aston Villa Newcastle Tottenham

01:45pm 04:00 pm 04:00pm 04:00pm 04:00pm 04:00pm 04:00pm 04:00pm 04:00pm 04:00pm

Liverpool are still EPL contenders

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Man United, Tottenham eye top four M

anchester United and Tottenham Hotspur will be looking to poke sticks in each other ’s wheel spokes when they face off in the Premier League’s stand-out New Year’s Day fixture.

Both sides have endured trying periods this season, United losing five of their first 15 games and Tottenham sacking manager Andre Villas-Boas, but both have enjoyed improved fortunes in recent weeks. United have won their last six games in all competitions, while Tottenham are unbeaten in the league

under new head coach Tim Sherwood, who has introduced an adventurous 44-2 formation.

The two teams remain eight points behind leaders Arsenal, with United ahead of Spurs on goal difference, but results over the festive period enabled them to close to within just three points of the Champions League places.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are only two points ahead, having conceded their grip on top spot and slipped to fifth place following consecutive losses at title rivals Manchester City

and Chelsea.

United expect to welcome back Wayne Rooney after he missed Saturday’s 1-0 win at Norwich City with a groin injury but Robin van Persie remains sidelined due to a thigh problem.

•Klitschko

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orld boxing champion Vitali Klitschko vowed to bring order to what he describes as a “fight without rules” in Ukraine, calling for early elections in which he

spot after overcoming Southampton 2-1, which just rubs salt in the wounds for Liverpool.

Hazard delight after ‘silencing critics’ E

Klitschko vows to change Ukraine’s ‘fight without rules’ plans to stand against President Viktor Yanukovych. In an interview with AFP, Klitschko also revealed he had held secret talks with Ukraine’s hugely powerful oligarchs and tried to win their support for the mass protests against Yanukovych.

He also said he did not rule out inviting the currently jailed former prime minister Yulia Tymoshenko to become his head of government should he be elected president. Ukraine has been rocked over the last month by the biggest protests since the 2004 Orange Revolution after Yanukovych infuriated pro-European Ukrainians by ditching a pact for closer ties with the EU.

fter such a storming start to the season, Liverpool must surely be disappointed that they have ended 2013 outside of the Champions League places.

They were tipped to win the title after spending numerous weeks at the summit of the Premier League but have dropped of slightly, despite being top last week.

It just shows how close the title contest is, and it will certainly not be the usual twohorse race of recent seasons.

Two 2-1 defeats against Manchester City and now Chelsea mean they have dropped out of the top four for the first time this season, as their Merseyside rivals claim the final Champions League

•Hazard

den Hazard claims he has silenced the critics who have accused him of failing to star in Chelsea’s big games.

The Belgium international produced a manof-the-match performance to inspire Chelsea to a crucial 2-1 victory over Liverpool.

Most of Hazard’s Premier League goals have come against lesser opposition since his £32m move to Chelsea from Lille in 2012.

There has been frustration that 22-year-old Hazard could be working harder on his ability to become one of the world’s best players.

Having netted the winner against Swansea on St Stephen’s Day, Hazard feels he proved he can be the man for the big occasion with a fantastic strike against Liverpool. “I silence those who said I only score against weaker opponents. That gives me pleasure,” said Hazard. Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho dropped Hazard earlier this season for returning late from France. But Mourinho is happy with a return of eight Premier League goals over the first half of the season.

“In football, statistics are really important,” said Hazard. “I score more goals now and I assist more. I can play an average game and score two times. But I can also play a top game without contributing. I am a perfectionist, but I’m not a killer yet. I’m working on it.

“I think Jose Mourinho likes me.

He’s sometimes provocative, he loves to play mind games. He launches things to motivate players in a positive way.

44—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

Appeal Court rules on pharmacist, Council suit

Delta recruits 750 youths for traffic regulation

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BY AKPOKONA OMAFUAIRE

FTER about 10 years of protracted legal tussle, the Court of Appeal sitting in Kaduna has upheld the suit by Nigeria Association of General Practice Pharmacist Employers, NAGPPE, against Pharmacists Council of Nigeria, PCN. By the judgment delivered by Kaduna Division of the court, which had set aside earlier judgment of a Kaduna High Court, members of the association and all investors, who met the old conditions for licensing and renewal of licences as employers of general practice pharmacists, can now have their licences renewed or obtain new ones from PCN. Upholding all the four grounds of appeal in favour of NAGPPE, Justice Ita Mbaba said: “I agree that there is merit in this appeal and I allow the appeal.

“The judgment of the Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna in suit No FHC/KD/CP/8/01 delivered by Justice Liman on July 25, 2003 is set aside.”

ARRI— DELTA State Government is to launch the road traffic task force with the recruitment of 750 youths

to enforce compliance with state traffic regulations.

Mr. Ben Igbakpa, the Commissioner for Transport, said this in Warri, during a congratulatory visit to the governor on his awards as

Man of the Year from some media houses.

He said: “Regulation of traffic is no mean job in the state. We are about launching the Traffic Regulation Task Force, which will ensure

Revenue from agric export 'll surpass oil— ODUAH T HE Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah has said that revenue from farm produce export through the perishable cargo programme of the Federal Government would surpass oil revenue in the next 10 years.

She added that it would also empower farmers, who constitute 85 per cent of Nigeria’s work force, and reduce poverty in the country by 60 per cent.

The minister made this known in Abuja while explaining the benefits of the perishable cargo programme, saying although the Federal Government was driving the programme, states and local governments have keyed into it as it would benefit the rural dwellers, who toil but earn little from their produce.

Oduah said: “Government will ensure that a certain

standardisation is achieved in terms of quality of produce and packaging so that it would meet the standard of international consumers in Europe, US and other parts of the world, some of whom have already indicated interest.”

Spokesman of aviation parastatals, Yakubu Dati, said

the abundance of, and varieties of fresh produce in the country and the growing economic importance of the sector, which stands at US$1.53 billion (N245 billion) had necessitated the development of 14 perishable cargo terminals to boost export.

Abe canvasses support for Amaechi

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HE Senator representing Rivers South-East senatorial district in the National Assembly, Senator Magnus Abe, has urged Rivers youths to support Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State in his struggle to defend democracy.

He made the call during the inauguration of the Kenule Saro-Wiwa Students’ Centre, which he secured for Ogoni

Students at Bori, headquarters of Khana Local Government Area of the state.

Senator Abe said Governor Amaechi’s fight was not for his own benefit, but to enable Nigerians experience the kind of democracy that would be beneficial to all and sundry, irrespective of their class, religion and tribe.

He said: “I want to use this opportunity to urge all of you

Defection of G-5 govs mischievous— GCGJ

BY FESTUS AHON

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G H E L L I — GRASSROOTS Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan, GCGJ, has described as mischievous, the

defection of some governors from Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to All Progressives Congress, APC. The group in a statement by its National President, Mr. Gabriel Akpude, said that

their defection was inconsequential to the political fortunes of PDP. Akpude said: “We also thanked Mr. President for having confidence in his Chief of Staff, Chief Mike

Ogiadomhe; Dr. Bamanga Tukur, National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and Dr. Ahmed Gulak, Special Adviser on Political Affairs, who were the targets of the G-5 governors.”

to continue to support our dear governor in this fight to make democracy beneficial to Nigerians.

“He is not fighting for himself but for Nigerians, irrespective of class, religion, or tribe.”

The lawmaker, who is also Chairman, Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), pledged to provide computer sets, one year free internet subscription and staff, who must be a student, to manage facilities at the centre.

Earlier in his remarks, the President of National Union of Ogoni Students, NUOS, Mr. Kpuinen Meedubari, pledged continued support to Amaechi and Senator Abe, in appreciation of their contributions to the development of students in the state.

By Bartholomew Madukwe

PEOPLE SPEAK

08102479985

compliance with traffic laws.

“About 750 youths have been recruited, who will do the job. We have purchased towing vans. We will ensure that road users comply with set laws.”

He said the scheme was put in place to check alleged suspected foul play by operators of Delta City Mass Transit Scheme, which the governor complained about during Iwere Kingdom Thanksgiving in War ri, Sunday.

While congratulating Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan on his awards, Igbakpa said: “The governor has done well.

“He merited all the awards.

It is what you sow that you reap. We are happy because he has done well.”

(nwamad@yahoo.com)

On New Year wishes

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S we step into a new year, any person or persons that is/are stumbling block(s) to the progress of this nation will perish. Enough is enough!

Nigerians cannot continue like this, and that is why we have to speak out now.— Ms. Sandra Adichie, Model.

I

wish all Nigerians a happy New Year and I want our government to do better than it did 2013. I pray for more strenght for our leaders to perform. It is expected that Nigeria will be better than the previous years.— Mr. Akeem Aderemi, Worker.

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ITH all the issues that have brought the country backward so far, it is left for all to be more prayerful and committed to the things of God because it is with his intervention that Nigeria will move forward again.— Mr. Kenneth Nwoke, Engineer.

I

hope for better things in 2014. I pray for good governance, political stability and a fruitful year for our beloved country. In all, I pray for peaceful Nigeria next year so that our country can be great again.— Mr. Bankole Kabiru, Student.

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N 2014, God should give us credible leaders that will lead us to the promised land, even if it means they will not enter with other Nigerians. Moses in the Bible led the Israelite well, but did not enter the promised land.— Mr. Emmanuel Fayire, Footballer.

Our leaders should take Nigeria and Nigerians first before personal interests. Let them know that the people are bitter about the way things are in the country and want a better change. 2014 should be better for Nigerians.— Ms. Opayemi Adewuyi, Student.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014—45

NDDC: Group gives Edo leaders 21-day ultimatum to produce consensus list

Bayelsa to partner security agencies to eradicate illegal bunkering

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

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ENAGOA—DISTURBED by the spate of oil theft and proliferation of illegal refineries in the Niger Delta, Bayelsa State governor, Mr. Seriake Dickson, yesterday, said that his administration would partner the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies to stamp out the menace in the region.

Dickson lamented that illegal bunkering and illegal crude oil refining were impacting negatively on the economy of the state, as well as polluting the environment and the waterways, including fishing activities.

According to him, the Joint Task Force, JTF and the state government were collaborating to curb the scourge and improve the access base of the economy of the state.

He spoke in Yenagoa during the 2013 Nigerian Navy Ceremonial Sunset, held at the Central Naval Command Headquarters.

Represented by his deputy, Mr. John Jonah, the governor said: “The treasure base is the commanding access base of this country and should be well protected.”

Reiterating his administration's zero tolerance to crime, he said: “Though we don’t have the mandate to carry arms, we shall encourage you to carry arms and fight this ugly menace ravaging our waterways. If the maritime space is not well protected, the country could collapse. Without security, nobody can think of development. As the society grows, the burden of security will also grow and we must protect the society, we must fund security to enhance the country's socio-economic growth.”

Speaking at the event, the Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Sidi Usman, said that the recent success at curbing illegalities was due to the collaboration of other stakeholders and proactive actions in the region.

He lauded Bayelsa and Delta State Governments for supporting the command in its effort to eradicate the monster of illegalities, called illegal bunkering, on the waterways.

B

CASH WITHDRAWALS: Customers queue to withdraw money from Automatic Teller Machines, ATM, in Okene, Kogi State, yesterday.

My Pikin: Appeal Court affirms Fed High Court 7yrs jail on two convicts

BY INNOCENT ANABA & BARTHOLOMEW MADUKWE

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HE Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos, yesterday, affirmed the judgment of a Federal High Court, Lagos, which sentenced two convicts to seven years imprisonment each, over production of a killer syrup, My Pikin.

The convicts, Adeyemo Abiodun and Ebele Eromosele, both employees of Barewa Pharmaceutical Company Ltd, were on May 17, convicted by Justice Okekechukwu Okeke, of a Federal High Court, Lagos.

They were prosecuted by National Agency for Food, Drugs, Administration and Control, NAFDAC. The trial judge convicted the accused for conspiracy and production of the adulterated teething mixture, which was reported to have caused the death of over 80 children in the country.

Meanwhile, reacting to the judgment, Dr. Paul Orhii, Director General of NAFDAC, said “We are very excited about the judgment of the Court of Appeal in Lagos today (yesterday) which affirmed the earlier judgment of the Federal High Court in Lagos as regard My Pikin case.

“Nigerians will recall that the producers of the killer syrup were sentenced to seven years each by the Federal High Court and we are glad that the Court of Appeal has affirmed that judgment.

“We assure Nigerians that NAFDAC will continue to prosecute those involved in production and sale of unregistered and adulterated drugs and food products,” he said.

The appellate court, in its judgment by Justice Dauda Bage, affirmed the seven years sentence handed by the trial court, but reversed the order of winding up and forfeiture made by the court.

The court held that by the provisions of sections 36 of the Consti-

tution and 138 (1) of the Evidence Act, the burden of proof in a criminal trial was proof beyond reasonable doubt, and same burden does not shift.

Justice Bage held that in a criminal matter of this nature, what was required of the prosecution was scientific evidence, that is, proof that the substance recovered was tested scientifically, and found hazardous.

Bage held that the prosecution had sufficiently discharged this burden of proof, by the provision of a Certificate of Scientific Evaluation from its laboratory, which clearly showed that the recovered products contained a toxic substance.

Ha said: “I am satisfied that the issues formulated by the respondents in their brief, is all encompassing, and sufficiently satisfies the issues raised in the appellants’ brief.

The respondents in their brief, stated that the appellants supplied batch 02008 of the teething syrup to Roka Pharmacy, which after recovery and scientific evaluation, was shown to contain a contaminant called dyethylene glycol.

“The appellants upon dis-

covery of the harm caused by the product, wrote a letter to Roka Pharmacy to stop sale and withdraw same from customers. At this time, about three and a half cartons and 34 bottles of the products were left. I cannot find any iota of denial from the appellants, that they were not present when the recovered samples were being packaged at the respondent’s office.

“They have also not challenged the accuracy or capacity of NAFDAC to carry out the scientific evaluation. The requirement of the law in a matter of this nature, is the provision of a certificate of scientific evaluation, and this court is satisfied that the NAFDAC certificate, constitute sufficient scientific requirement to secure the conviction of the appellants. It is in this regard, that the seven years sentence on the convicts by the trial court, is hereby affirmed.” he held.

On winding up of the company, the court held that the order of the trial judge, which directed all assets of the company to be forfeited to the Federal Government, was outside the provision of the law.

ENIN—EDO Unity League, EUL, a socio- cultural organisation in Edo State, yesterday, expressed concern over the failure by leaders of the state to agree on who represents the state on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC. It has, therefore, issued a 21-day ultimatum for stakeholders to reconcile themselves and collectively present a viable and people-oriented candidate for the sake of the people of the state. It also warned that failure to find solution to the problem, youths of the state would hold a procession across the three senatorial districts of the state to protest what they described as "insensitivity and selfishness of some Edo politicians.”

Edo State is the only state yet to present a nominee for the Board of NDDC to President Goodluck Jonathan.

While Governor Oshiomhole is backing the candidature of the out-going Commissioner in the Board, Mr Henry Okhuaro, whom it was said had achieved so much for the state, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP is backing Osahon Ahunwan and Chris Nehikhare.

Vanguard learnt that moves were being made by top All Progressives Congress, APC, leaders in the state to reconcile Oshiomhole and Senator Ehigie Uzamere, who had earlier submitted the name of Mr Peter Enogieru to the President. The two-time senator from Edo South senatorial district is under pressure to back Oshiomhole’s nominee.

Quit active politics in 2015, Gbagi tells Utuama

BY FESTUS AHON

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GHELLI—FORMER Minister of State for Education, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, has urged the deputy governor of Delta State, Prof. Amos Utuama, to retire from active politics at the end of his tenure in 2015 for the younger generation.

Gbagi, in his Oginibo country home, in Ughelli South Local Government

Area of the state, said: “As I said recently, Prof. Utuama was my lecturer in school.

“My position is that I am already thinking of retiring from politics after this dispensation. People must play godfather roles. I have told him that ‘close 70, which he was last year, when we discussed, he should be a father in politics, he should be a father in Ughelli South politics.

“We cannot be coming back

to be talking about somebody in his 70’s becoming the governor or fighting to become the governor in the state. What we are saying is that, he was my teacher in school even though I am his benefactor in society. That being the case, let us bring Urhobo together not to divide Urhobo.

“The governor did a fantastic job when he instituted the campaign council for Aghwariavwodo to bring Urhobo together and we worked."

46—Vanguard , WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

Araraume returns to PDP

BY CHIDINKWOPARA

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WERRI—IT was a celebration of sorts yesterday in Imo State Secretariat of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as former chieftain of All Progressives Congress, APC, Senator Ifeanyi Araraume, and over 1,000 loyalists announced their return to PDP. He also announced that apart from being fully back to the rejuvenated PDP family, “all my teeming supporters from the 27 local government areas of Imo State are today following me to our original fold.”

He said he was confident that Imo PDP will go places, adding that with all the big names in the state political firmament being around today was a clear manifestation that they were on course.

Araraume promised he was going to do everything possible to support PDP at all levels, adding that he was taking it as a personal responsibility to woo others back into the PDP family.

Fidau prayer

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LHAJA SAFURAT Abiola Itanola(Iya Adinni of Olorunshola Central Mosque), aged 90 years is dead. She has since been buried according to Muslim rites.

The Fidau prayer holds today, at 14, Omobola Street, off Itire Road, Mushin, Lagos. The reception will hold at Eleja Primary School, Mushin.

Late Safurat Itanola

Meeting

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MOKORUGBO DESCENDANTS of Ajatiton, Ikpoba Okhai Local Government Area of Edo State, will hold the general meeting of its community, at Korobe Village, via Koko, on Saturday, January 4, 2014.

A signed statement by Mr. Samuel Ireokane, Trust President, enjoined every body to be punctual as important matters affecting the community are slated for discussion.

Abia govt faults Amaechi on 41 oil wells

BY ANAYOOKOLI

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MUAHIA—ABIA State government has faulted Governor Chibuike Amaechi of Rivers State over his claim that President Goodluck Jonathan ceded 41 oil wells belonging to Rivers State to his state, saying the governor lied on the issue.

Describing the claim as spurious, the government challenged Governor Amaechi to name the specific numbers of the 41 oil wells in question.

The government in a statement by the Commissioner for Petroleum and Solid Minerals’ Development, chief Don Ubani, warned Governor Amaechi not to bring Abia State into whatever crisis of inordinate ambition he was being tormented.

Ubani said: “It is very ironical and laughable that a governor who claims to have left a political party due to his distaste for corruption is, himself, laying a claim that squarely borders on falsehood and therefore, corruption.”

He explained that Shell Petroleum Development Company was the major oil firm operating in Abia State and neighbouring Etche in Rivers State, saying the true facts of the issue could easily be obtained from the company.

“In a letter dated December 16, 2013, SPDC on the request of Abia State government, gave a list of oil wells that are within Ukwa West territory. The said letter gave a resume of oil coordinates in Abia territory. No oil well in Etche or any part of Rivers State is contained therein.

“If Governor Amaechi’s

claims were not spurious, he should have mentioned the specific number of each of the 41 oil wells.

“Let me hope that Governor Amaechi has not mistaken oil coordinates as Imo River-017; Obigbo North-006; Obigbo North-011; Obigbo North-012 and Obigbo North-047 as imaginary wells in Rivers State.

“If Governor Amaechi wants anybody to take him seriously on his claims on corruption, he should start by apologising to the government and people of Abia State for allegedly making use of oil money derived from oil wells from Abia for many years running.

Please, let us give peace a chance,” the government stated.

PRESENTATION: From left: TECNO Lady, Miss Emmanuella Odum, Deputy General Manager, TECNO Nigeria, Mr. Chidi Okonkwo, Administrator, SOS Village, Isolo, Mr. Benjamin Buraimoh and TECNO Afro Santa, Mr. Ade Olanrewaju, during the presentation of Christmas gifts to the children's village at Isolo, Lagos.

PDP TO IMO LAWMAKERS: Apologise to Agbaso or resign

BY CHIDINKWOPARA WERRI—THE leadership of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Imo State, has called on the Simeon Iwunze-led House of Assembly panel to apologize to the former deputy governor, Sir Jude Agbaso, or resign honourably from office.

The party ’s position was communicated to the public in a press release by the state Legal Adviser, Chief C. O. C. Akaolisa, in Owerri.

The PDP’s demand followed the clean bill of health given to the former Imo State Deputy Governor, Sir Jude Agbaso, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, over the N458 million bribe scandal that had been rocking the state for awhile.

The party noted that the adhoc committee of the State House of Assembly had been exposed for what it really was, hired agents for dirty job.

While commending the EFCC for clearing Agbaso of any wrong doing over the allegations of bribery, the party was, however ,not very happy with what it called “the vituperations of Governor Rochas Okorocha against the EFCC over same issue”.

The party expressed regret that Okorocha could not understand the true meaning of the EFCC

O

statement before saying all manner of things against the anti-graft agency.

“He needs to be tutored to realise that he has lost the moral

foundation, character and dignified manhood to accuse any person of any wrong doing as the mud of the Agbaso/ JPROS episode will certainly

take a long time to wash,” Akaolisa said.

The party commended EFCC for “coming out bold to clear the good name of an innocent man.

Igbo youths threaten to dump Jonathan over alleged marginalisation inception.

BY ANAYOOKOLI MUAHIA—AHEAD of 2015, coalition of Igbo youths has threatened to dump President Goodluck Jonathan, if their marginalisation under his administration persisted.

Their latest grouse arose from the allocation of N59.9 billion for 30,000 Niger Delta militants in the 2014 budget to the detriment of Igbo youths, some of who suffered the same fate as Niger Delta youths.

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The organising secretary of Ohanaeze Youth Council, OYC, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said with the large budgetary allocation to Niger Delta youths, President Jonathan had empowered his people to the detriment of Igbo youths.

Noting that Igbo youths were instrumental to the election of President Jonathan in 2011, Isiguzoro lamented that none of them had been empowered by his administration since

Isiguzoro attributed the high rate of kidnapping and other criminal activities in the South-East to the non empowerment of Igbo youths and urged President Jonathan to include them in the amnesty deal or lose their support in 2015.

He said: “President Jonathan budgeted N59.9 billion for 30,000 Niger Delta militants. He has empowered his brothers, leaving us out.

“The non-empowerment of our youths is responsible for crimes in South-East."

Odunsi blames rift between LG chair, community on politics Members of the community construction recently by officials of

L

BY ONOZUREDANIA

AGOS—SENATOR Akin Odunsi yesterday in Lagos said the rancour between the Chairman, Ado-odo Otta local government and the community over Ilo-Ifako bridge project had a political undertone, stating that political expediency should not take over the welfare of the people.

have been going through harrowing experiences over the non-existence of a bridge that would ease transportation and other transaction for years, a situation that prompted them to erect a make shift bridge, which unfortunately collapsed during a downpour last February.

Their hopes was further dashed, following an alleged stoppage of work on the

the Ado-odo Otta local government.

Briefing newsmen on the development, Senator Odunsi, who represents Ogun West senatorial district, disclosed that the Ilo-Ifako bridge was a constituency project of his, adding that it was backed up by an Act of the Nigerian Parliament, the National Assembly and signed into law by the President.

Vanguard, WEDNEESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014 —

47

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LAUNCH: From left, Mrs. Elizabeth Amkpa, General Manager; Mr. Oludare Kafar, Marketing Manager; Miss Lanre Oluwole, Operation Manager, all of GOtv, and Mr. Francis Agaba, MultiChoice Super Dealer, in Calabar, during the launch of GOtv, at Transcorp EXERCISE: The First Lady of Niger State, Hajiya Jumai Babangida Aliyu, administering Wormidan to a pupil, during a recent de-worming exercise, organised by Dana Hotels, Calabar, Cross Rivers State.

Drugs Limited, in Niger State.

BRIEFING: From left, Acting General Secretary, Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, MEDCAN, UCH, Dr. Victor Makanjuola; Chairman, MDCAN, UCH, Professor Juwon Arotiba, and Vice Chairman, MEDCAN UCH, Dr. Abass Abdulsalami, during a news briefing over an impending strike action for non-payment of their allowance by UCH Management. Photo: Dare Fasube

GRADUATION: Rev. Ovuoduo Williams, Rector, Truth and Light Bible School, Lagos, and Peter Oghenekaro, receiving his Bachelor degree certificate from the rector, during the seventh graduation ceremony of the school, in Lagos.

COMMISSIONING: The official commissioning and handover of a 32,000litre, solar-powered water project for three communities of Majawe, Oshun and Alaaga, in Ibadan, by the Nigerian Breweries Plc.

PRESENTATION: From left, TECNO Lady Miss Emmanuella Odum; Deputy General Manager, TECNO in Nigeria, Mr. Chidi Okonkwo; Administrator, SOS Village, Isolo, Lagos, Mr. Benjamin Buraimoh, and TECNO Afro Santa, Mr. Ade Olanrewaju, during the presentation of Christmas gifts to the children of SOS Village, Isolo, Lagos.

PRESENTATION: Bishop of Diocese of Lagos West, Rt. Revered James Odedeji (3rd right, back row); Mrs. Lydia Odedeji (2nd right, back row); Human Resources/Administrator, Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria, Amaka Obidi (4th right, back row), and Venerable Israel Owoyele, with the children of the Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria, during the Bishop's visit and presentation of materials to the Foundation, in Surulere, Lagos.

PRESENTATION: From left, Sales and Marketing Director, Fidson Healthcare Plc, Mr. Olugbenga Olayeye; Winner of the MyAstymin Christmas Game, Afam Nwanchi, and Operations Director, Fidson Healthcare Plc, Mr. Abiola Adebayo, during Fidson Christmas Carol/Prize presentation ceremony, in Lagos.

BIRTHDAY: Alhaja Olabisi Kukoyi cutting her 70th birthday cake, flanked by her children, from right, Chief Olayinka Kukoyi, Oladapo Yele-Akinlabi, and Mr. Kayode Kukoyi, during the birthday anniversary celebration, at Salvation Opebi, Lagos, weekend.

48 —Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

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50 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

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change on our economy.

Sen. Magnus Abe (right), Hon. Ledee Demua, Chairman, Gokana LGA (middle) and Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Victor Giadom, exchanging pleasantries during an interactive session with youths of Rivers South-East Senatorial District in Bori, recently.

My plans for this year — Jonathan Continues from page 5 farming families while increasing production of over 400,000 metric tons of assorted irrigated food products.

Fellow Compatriots, I have always believed that the single greatest thing we can do to ensure all Nigerians realize their potential and play a full part in our nation’s future, is to invest in education. The education of our young people is a key priority for this Government. We take this responsibility very seriously and I urge all other stakeholders in the sector to recognize the national importance of their work, and to help advance the cause of education in our nation.

Between 2007 and 2013, we have almost tripled the allocation for education from N224 billion to N634 billion – and we will continue to vigorously support the sector. We have improved access to education in the country with the construction of 125 Almajiri schools, and the establishment of three additional Federal Universities in the North, bringing to twelve, the number of universities established by this administration.

In 2013, we rehabilitated 352 laboratories and constructed 72 new libraries in the Federal Unity Schools; and also rehabilitated laboratories

of all the 51 Federal and State polytechnics across the country.

In the Health sector, we are building strong safety nets and improving access to primary health care under the Saving One Million Lives programme. In 2013, we recruited 11,300 frontline health workers who were deployed to under-served communities across the country.

Over 400,000 lives have been saved through our various interventions.

We have reached over 10,000 women and children with conditional cash transfer programmes across 8 States and the FCT and we intend to scale up this successful initiative.

Our national immunization coverage has exceeded 80%. And for the first time in the history of the country there has not been any transmission of the Type-3 Wild Polio virus for more than one year. We have also eradicated the guinea worm that previously affected the lives of over 800,000 Nigerians yearly. In tertiary health care, we upgraded medical facilities across the country. Two of our teaching hospitals – the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital in Enugu, and the University College Hospital in Ibadan – commenced open heart surgeries this year after the installation of new facilities.

Fellow Nigerians, I

have dwelt on some of our administration’s achievements in 2013 to reassure you that we are working and results are being achieved on the ground. As we enter our Centennial year, there is still much work ahead.

We are determined to sustain our strong macroeconomic fundamen-

ernment completed the privatization of four power generation companies and 10 power distribution companies. We are also in the process of privatizing 10 power plants under the National Integrated Power Projects (NIPP).

We shall boost investments in transmission to ensure power generated

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Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014—51

We shall boost investments in transmission to ensure power generated is properly evacuated and distributed. In this regard, we have already mobilized an additional $1.5 billion for the upgrade of the transmission network tals, to strengthen our domestic institutions, and to invest in priority sectors. These investments will create more jobs for our youth. Government will at the same time, continue to scaleup investments in safety nets and the MDGs to take care of the poor and the vulnerable so that they too can share in our growth and prosperity.

In 2014, we will continue to prioritize investments in key sectors such as infrastructure development, power, roads, rail transportation and aviation. In the past year, the Federal Gov-

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is properly evacuated and distributed. In this regard, we have already mobilized an additional $1.5 billion for the upgrade of the transmission network in 2014 and beyond. Government will also strengthen regulation of the sector, and closely monitor electricity delivery to increase this beyond 18 hours per day. We will complete the privatization of the NIPP projects, accelerate work on our gas pipeline infrastructure and also continue to invest in hydro-electric power and clean energy as we monitor the effects of climate

Our administration believes that the cost of governance in the country is still too high and must be further reduced.

We will also take additional steps to stem the tide of corruption and leakages. We have worked hard to curb fraud in the administration of the pension system and the implementation of the petroleum subsidy scheme. We have introduced a Pensions Transition Arrangement Department under a new Director-General. This department will now ensure that those of our pensioners still under the old scheme receive their pensions and gratuities, and are not subjected to fraud. Prosecution of all those involved in robbing our retired people will continue.

The Petroleum Subsidy Scheme is also now being operated under new strict guidelines to tackle previous leakages in the scheme and prevent fraud.

Foreign travel by government personnel will be further curtailed. This directive shall apply to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the Federal Government.

Our strategy to curb leakages will increasingly rely on introducing the right technologies such as biometrics and digitizing government payments.

I am therefore pleased to inform you that we shall complete the deployment of the three electronic platforms in 2014 – namely, the Treasury Single Account (TSA), the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) and the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) – which are all geared towards improving efficiency and transparency in our public finances.

Through these reforms, we have already saved about N126 billion in leaked funds and intend to save more.

To sustain Nigeria’s ongoing agricultural transformation, we have planned further investments in the sector. We will provide input subsidies to five million farmers nationwide using the e-wallet system. This Administration recently launched a self-employment initiative under the Youth Employment in Agriculture Programme (YEAP), called the Nagropreneur programme. This scheme would encourage our youth to go into commercial agriculture as entrepreneurs and we plan to develop over 750,000 young Nagropreneurs by

2015.

We will also establish new agro-industrial clusters to complement the staple crop processing zones being developed across the country. In 2014, this Administration will continue to work with the private sector to improve financing in the agricultural sector. For example, we will launch the Fund for Agricultural Finance in Nigeria (FAFIN) which will serve as a private equity fund to invest in agri-businesses across the country.

Our Small and Medium scale enterprises (SMEs) will be the bedrock of Nigeria’s industrialization. We have about 17 million registered SMEs, and they employ over 32 million Nigerians. When our SMEs grow, more jobs will be created for our youth. Therefore, in 2014, this Administration will focus strongly on implementing the Nigeria Enterprise Development Programme (NEDEP) to address the needs of small businesses. Our interventions will include helping SMEs with access to affordable finance, business development services, and youth training.

In addition, our new CET policies will enable us to support our emerging industries.

We will also intensify our investment promotion efforts abroad, to ensure we bring the biggest and best companies from around the world to invest in Nigeria.

Dear Compatriots, the housing and construction industry is a critical sector in most developed economies. When the housing sector booms, it creates additional jobs for architects and masons, for electricians and plumbers, for painters and interior decorators, and for those in the cement and furniture industries.

Today, I am pleased to inform you that this Administration is reinvigorating our housing and construction sector. We have established the Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC) which will increase liquidity in the housing sector, provide a secondary market for mortgages, and thereby increase the number of people able to purchase or build homes at an affordable price in the country.

In 2014, we will work in a number of pilot states where the State Governors have agreed to provide fast-track land titles, foreclosure arrangements, and serv-

Continues on page 52

52—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

My plans for this year — Jonathan Continues on page 52 iced plots. This new institution will enable us to create over 200,000 mortgages over the next five years at affordable interest rates. In addition, those at the lower end of the economic ladder will not be left behind as this new initiative will expand mass housing schemes through a re-structured Federal Mortgage Bank and other institutions to provide rent-to-own and lease-to-own options. I am confident that very soon, many more hardworking Nigerian families will be able to realize their dream of owning a home.

In this our centenary year, we will continue our efforts, through the Saving One Million Lives initiative to strengthen primary health care services. We will scale up interventions in reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health, nutrition, routine immunization, HIV/AIDS, malaria

elimination, tuberculosis, neglected tropical diseases, and non-communicable diseases. We will pay greater attention to the provision of universal health coverage. Besides the implementation of new initiatives such as my comprehensive response plan for HIV/AIDS, we shall continue to collaborate with global health partners to deliver our health sector transformation agenda.

I am glad that the issues responsible for the long-drawn ASUU strike have been resolved and our children are returning to their campuses.

We are committed to making our tertiary institutions true centers of learning for our young people. We will therefore focus on upgrading hostels, laboratories, classrooms, and halls.

As the 2015 deadline for the Millennium Development Goals approaches, we will continue to expand access to basic education for all

Nigerian children. Working with State Governments, we shall decisively tackle the problem of the large numbers of out-of-school children in this country. We will also invest in technical and vocational education to promote skills development for our youth across the country.

Nigerian entrepreneurs still lack access to affordable financing, with medium-to-longterm tenors. To address this gap, a new wholesale development finance institution will be established in 2014 to provide medium-to long-term financing for Nigerian businesses. We are working with partners such as the World Bank, the Africa Development Bank, the BNDES Bank in Brazil, and KfW in Germany, to realize this project. Our existing Bank of Agriculture and Bank of Industry will be re-structured as specialized institutions to retail financing from this new wholesale

development bank.

In addition to the foregoing, our administration will also do all within its powers to ensure the success of the forthcoming National Conference. The report of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Conference is undergoing urgent review and the approved structure, guidelines and modalities for the conference will soon be published as a prelude to its commencement and expeditious conclusion.

It remains our sincere hope and expectation that the success of the national conference will further enhance national unity, peace and cohesion as we move ahead to the 2015 general elections.

In keeping with our avowed commitment to progressively enhancing the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process by consistently upholding the principle of one man, one vote, our Adminis-

Nigerian Civil War that would claim his life at the tender age of 35—but more on this presently. Still mourning the murder of my friend and mentor, Professor Festus Iyayi —and now that we have photo evidence that he was shot straight through the heart at close range, showing that the automobile accident was merely a cover for a high-tech assassination, we must insist on a judi-

vised a personal spiritual vision of the world symbolised by two intervolving spirals or gyres whose outward and inward spinning represented the unending tension between order and anarchy, might have explained with any clarity what his poem is really about. Yet the tension pro-

tration will also ensure that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) receives all required support to ensure that it is adequately prepared for the next general elections.

As peace and security remain prerequisite conditions for the full realization of our objectives, we will also do more in 2014 to further empower our security agencies who are working in collaborative partnerships with our friends in the international community to stem the scourge of terrorism in our country and enhance the security of lives and property in all parts of Nigeria. The allocation of over N600 Billion to Defence and Policing in the 2014 Budget attests to this commitment.

Fellow compatriots, the task of making our dear nation a much better place for present and

future generations cannot be left to government alone. I therefore urge you all to be ready and willing to do more this year to support the implementation of the Federal Government’s Agenda for National Transformation in every possible way.

Let us all therefore resolve as we celebrate the new year, and Nigeria’s Centenary, to place the higher interests of national unity, peace, stability and progress above all other considerations and work harder in our particular fields of human endeavour to contribute more significantly to the attainment of our collective aspirations. I urge all Nigerians, no matter their stations in life, to rededicate themselves to contributing meaningfully to further enrich our national heritage. The time for that re-dedication is now, not tomorrow.

I wish you all a happy and rewarding 2014.

God bless Nigeria.

Happy New Year.

Slouching into 2014 ROM the same poem that gave Chinua Achebe the title of the work that immortalised him, Things Fall Apart, comes this more foreboding sentence: “And what rough beast, its hour come round at last/ Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?”

The end of a year is traditionally a period of reflection and projection. We look back in hindsight at the errors and failings of the dying year and promise to do better; to banish all missteps from the coming year.

Like the proverbial Owl of Athena/Minerva of Greek mythology, we are supremely wise only in retrospect—by the pitiless backward glance. As I participate in this ritual — after all, the capacity for retrospection and to learn from experience, is probably what best distinguishes humans from animals —my mind, unbidden, fixates on W.B. Yeats’s great poem, “The Second Coming.”

The first section of the poem, laden as it is with troubling images of a world unable to contain anymore the chaos and catastrophe laid unblinkingly bare by the hitherto unprecedented C M Y K

barbarism and carnage of World War I, also gives us those powerful statements borne of the most acute observation: “The blooddimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere / The ceremony of innocence is drowned; / The best lack all conviction, while the worst / Are full of passionate intensity.” I don’t know, but maybe the sanctimonious carrying-on of former military dictator and (s)elected president General Olusegun Obasanjo, and the rather tepid response

by President Goodluck Jonathan (why did he trouble himself?) has something to do with my mind’s unilateral musing on this poem. I make no judgement as to who might even qualify for “the best” among the tiresome writers of epistles supposedly driven to passionate intensity by nothing but patriotism and probity. But perhaps it is the image of a blood-dimmed tide that unconsciously led me to brooding on this poem, and after a while, inevitably on Christopher Okigbo’s equally memorable verses of despair, “Come Thunder”— in his case, a prediction of the

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F

And with President Jonathan’s national conference/dialogue, as deliberately ambiguous as it is, we have the rope, the lifeline, to pull us away from the fatal plunge

cial inquest and charges of murder and conspiracy to murder soon after by the Kogi State Attorney-General I dwelled on that image of a beast, half man and half lion, slouching towards Bethlehem (Nigeria? since we surely have surpassed Bethlehem in holiness?) to be born.

Only Yeats, who dabbled in the occult, consulted Ouija boards, and had de-

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duced by its lapidary diction and the puzzling obscurantism of its private spiritualism makes the poem plainly unforgettable. Proof is that it is one of the most anthologised poems of all times in the English language. And the more I recalled each image, the closer to Nigeria’s “blood-dimmed tide” I found it to be; not less that phrase “somewhere in

sands of the desert,” an image sustained by later mention of “indignant desert birds.” Could it be because the unending bloodbath in the north-east of Nigeria creates bright red trails to the Sahara, where beasts of human head and human body roam menacingly?

Okigbo, who may be indebted to Yeats, given what I now see as the structural similarity of “Come Thunder” to “A Second Coming”—both poems start with gripping images of the chaotic present and move on to prophecy, all in very clear diction, ending with lines that defy easy explication (in Okigbo’s case, “A nebula immense and immeasurable, a night of deep waters” and “the secret thing in its heaving / Threatens with iron mask / The last lighted torch of the century,” for instance), not to mention the private spiritualism of both poets (Okigbo’s less intricate or pronounced)—spoke of “The smell of blood already float[ing] in the lavendermist of the afternoon” and of “The death sentence [ly-

ing] in ambush along the corridors of power.” Somewhere in those corridors, I insist, someone pronounced a death sentence for the assassination of Iyayi, and the direct involvement of a driver in the convoy of the Kogi State governor leaves a lot, an awful lot, to be explained!

Well, it is 2014, the eve of the year Nigeria falls apart, according to America’s intelligence experts and war gamers. Clearly, the falcon (our so-called leaders) can no longer hear the falconer (the people). I do not believe that doomsday prophecy, the US government’s disclaimers notwithstanding. It seems to me that Nigeria has perfected the art of recoiling from absolute selfannihilation when it stares down into the abyss from its precarious perch on the edge of the cliff. And with President Jonathan’s national conference/dialogue, as deliberately ambiguous as it is, we have the rope, the lifeline, to pull us away from the fatal plunge. I will, therefore, raise a toast to 2014!

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014—53

HIV/AIDS awareness campaigners

2013: Sustaining the battle against HIV/AIDS E

BERE Unachi (not real name) had lost her hus band during the infamous 2011 Christmas day bomb blast in Suleja, Niger State. The untimely demise of the father of four left the 38-year old petty trader, with the huge responsibility of taking care of her large home.

She had expected that the little money she makes from the sale of vegetable at the Suleja market, would make a difference but that was not to be as her finances depleted the more, making her to stop the trade.

Her case became very complicated because she had no training or vocational skill which would have enabled her to secure a job. Her only source of livelihood was a lorry driver she started dating after the demise of her husband. Apart from the fact that she risked being infested by any of the deadly sexually transmitted disease, the money she made from the illicit affair did very little to sustain the family.. Fortunately for Ebere, she was rescued from poverty and the promiscuous life she just embraced by the National Agency for the Control of Aids, NACA. She is one of the numerous beneficiaries of NACA’s skills acquisition training at Anawim Skills Acquisition Centre in Abuja. Through this initiative the agency under the leadership of Prof John Idoko, is protecting women who fall under the vulnerable group category against HIV and Aids.

It was gathered that NACA gives a special and unique attention to women because nearly 60 per cent of the 3.5 million people living with HIV in the country are women.

V

anguard Features VF in vestigations showed that NACA has recorded tremendous improvement in its battle against the scourge since the appointment of Idoko as the head of the agency.

A report by the African Leadership Magazine corroborated claims that the HIV battle is being won in Nigeria despite reports that the country has the second highest HIV and AIDS infection rate.

The report said, “The HIV prevalence in the country which was 4.6 percent in 2008 has declined to 4.1percent in 2010.The number of people living with HIV/AIDS receiving anti-retroviral drugs increased from 230,000 at the end of 2008 to 500,000 at the end of 2011.

The number of sites for providing these drugs increased from 296 at the end of 2008 to 491 at the end of 2011.”

According to the report, “Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission, PMTCT of HIV; the coverage of this important component has increased from seven percent in 2008 to 32 percent in 2012 and the number of PMTCT centers has

increased from 533 in 2008 to 800 in 2012.In December 2011, on the World AIDS Day, NACA working with the First Lady’s NGO, Women for Health and Development Initiative Integrated Health Program, WHD IHP, got the First Lady to launch “the Accelerated PMTCT Program” for the country and this will soon to be followed with zonal launches of the program.

This is in a bid to get to 90 percent coverage of this program and get to an “AIDS free generation” with zero transmission of HIV from mother to child”.

It was also gathered that unlike in the past NACA has significantly achieved progress in terms of number of the people who have access to antiretroviral drugs. For instance

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By CHARLES KUMOLU

Commenting on this recently, Idoko said NACA was convinced that empowering women would help to reduce the rising occurrence of HIV and AIDS in the country.

“Empowering women will help us to drive down the prevalence of HIV and ensure the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals, MDGs. NACA gives a special and unique attention to women because nearly 60 per cent of the 3.5 million people living with HIV in the country are women. We need to take women as a vulnerable group to address their challenges,” the NACA chief said.

lion. In the last four weeks, we have raised the tempo round the country as far as testing is concerned. We want to ensure that we can intervene in pregnant women who are HIV positive so they don’t transmit the virus to their babies. We also want to address the issue of young people”.

“The youth group constitutes about seventy per cent of the nation’s population and they are most at risk of the virus. The cardinal thing we are doing is to discuss with the people at the state level to see how they can go back and start looking at the data and the plan that can take us there,” he said.

Idoko said the aim of the forum was to ensure that states,

The youth group constitutes about seventy per cent of the nation’s population and they are most at risk of the virus

in 2008, there were less than 300,000 people who were accessing the drugs. But the UNA 2010 report put it at nearly 400,000.

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his figure which stands 600,000 is expected to increase to 1.2 million in 2014.

Idoko who spoke during the 2013 meeting of NACA and State Agencies for the Control of AIDS outlined the agencies next line of action. “Key of those things we want to do are: one, we want to double the numbers of people who are on drugs right now from 600,000 to 1.2 million. We want to test so many. Our target is 80 mil-

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local governments and the communities drive the response to achieve the universal access target by 2015. He maintained that one of the biggest challenges the Agency faced was the distribution of the HIV and AIDS fund to civil society groups in the states.

Noting that penalties would be given to states that failed to disburse the HIV and AIDS funds properly, he said: “What we agreed at the last mid-term review meeting is that if by the end of December 31, any state that has not disbursed its fund, we will take it and allocate it to something that is our priority.”

The result of these gains re-

•Idoko, NACA boss corded

by NACA in carrying out its core functions as well as strengthening the institutional structure, is that it has positioned itself as one of the very core institutions that will help in the attainment of the MDGs and a focal point of the present administration’s transformation agenda. It was therefore not surprising that on March 3, 2013, Professor John Idoko was reappointed as head of the agency.

Speaking to Vanguard Features,VF, a Public Health expert, Dr. Hayatou Sumaila lauded the performance of the agency. “The agency has also grown to be more versatile in terms of exploring funding avenues. This has also given rise to high level of integrity in the management and disbursement of funds made available to the agency both from the Federal government and other donor agencies,’’ he said.

Asked if 2013 was remarkable in the race against the disease, he responded thus: ‘’If you are conversant with the holistic approach adopted against HIV spread, you will be convinced that many steps were taken forward towards fighting HIV/AIDS. More needs to be done in 2014 but we are doing well.” ”One challenge that keeps starring on the face of the interventionist Agency is however that of taking its awareness campaign to the rural dwellers and at the same time identifying genuine NGOs as partners in progress. It is expected that the agency will focus more on this noticeable challenge in the years ahead,” he suggested.

54—VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

BY CHARLES KUMOLU

1914: Nigeria is created through the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern protectorates.

1918: The Adubi War is fought in Egba Land, the first major revolt against Lord Lugard’s government.

1923: Herbert Macaulay establishes the Nigerian National Democratic Party, NNDP the first political party in the country.

1929: Aba women riots against introduction of tax by the colonial government.

1946: Nigeria entered a period of decolonization and growing Nigerian nationalism with the introduction of regional governments giving Nigerians more opportunities in government.

1950: A conference of northern and southern delegates was held in Ibadan preceding the London Constitutional conference.

1953: The London Constitutional Conference.

1957: Nigeria held a Constitutional conference in Lagos where the North claimed it was not ready for independence resulting in the booing of Northern delegates by Nigerians in the gallery.

1957: Self government introduced in the West and East regions.

1959: Self government introduced in the Northern Region.

1959: Nigeria holds its first national election to set up an independent government.

Northern politicians won a majority of seats in the Parliament.

October 1960: Nigeria Gains independence from Britain October 1963: Nigeria becomes a Republic and cuts judicial ties with the Privy Council in Britain.

1962-1963 - Controversial census fuels regional and ethnic tensions.

January 1966: First military coup led by Maj. Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogu July 1966: Counter coup by LtCol Yakubu Gowon.

May 1967: Nigerian Civil War starts.

May 1967: Gowon divides Four Regions into 12 states.

Jan. 1970: Nigerian Civil War ends.

1972: Nigeria changes currency from Pound to Naira, introduces metric system.

1973: Nigeria switches from left- to right-hand driving.

1973: Nigeria hosts All-Africa Games 1973: Nigeria inaugurates National Youth Service Corps 1974: Gowon says democracy is no longer feasible in 1976 1975: Birth of Economic Community of West African States.

July 1975: Brig. Murtala Mohammed leads a coup that topples Gowon 1976: Murtala increases states to 19 Feb. 1976: Murtala killed in failed military coup, Olusegun Obasanjo takes over.

1977: Nigeria hosts second Black and African Festival of arts and culture.

Landmarks since amalgamation Oct. 1979: Obasanjo hands over power to Shehu Shagari, Second Republic begins.

1980: Nigeria hosts and wins African Nations Cup for first time Dec. 1983: Gen. Muhammadu Buhari topples Shagari in military coup August 1985: Gen. Ibrahim Babangida ousts Buhari in military putsch.

1985: Nigeria wins first-ever global soccer title (U-16 FIFA/ KODAK CUP).

1987: Failed military coup led

by Maj.-Gen. Mamman Vatsa 1987: Babangida creates two new states, Akwa Ibom and Katsina.

1990: Failed military coup led

by Maj. Gideon Orkar 1990: Nigeria spearheads formation of ECOMOG 1991: Babangida creates nine more states, bringing total

states in the face of opposition from Christians breeds tension across Northern Nigeria leading to riots across Northern Nigeria.

2002: Religious riots erupt over the Miss World.

2002: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled against Nigeria in favor of Cameroon over the disputed oil-rich Bakassi peninsula.

Feb 2002 - Some 100 people are killed in Lagos in clashes between Hausas from mainly-Islamic north and ethnic Yorubas from predominantly-Christian southwest.

2002 November - More than 200 people die in four days of rioting stoked by Muslim fury over the planned Miss World beauty pageant in Kaduna in December. The event is relocated to Britain.

April 2003 - First legislative

number of states to 30 June 1993: After a landmark presidential election believed to have been won by Moshood Abiola, Babangida annuls the election and proposes an interim national government headed by Chief Ernest Shonekan.

August 1993: Ernest Shonekan assumes office as head of interim government.

November 1993: Gen. Sani Abacha seizes power from Shonekan.

1995: Commonwealth Slaps Sanctions on Nigeria after killing of environmental activist, Ken Saro-Wiwa.

1995: Government announces aborted ‘Coup’ against Abacha, Obasanjo and former deputy, Shehu Musa Yar`Adua incarcerated.

1996: Abacha increases states to 36.

1996: Nigeria wins first Olympic gold medals in long jump and soccer 1997: Another ‘coup’ against Abacha foiled 8 June 1998: Abacha dies suddenly, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar assumes office 29 May 1999: Abdulsalami cedes power to Obasanjo at the commencement of the Fourth Republic.

1999: Nigeria hosts World Youth Soccer Championship.

2000: Nigeria Co-hosts African Nations Cup with Ghana.

2000 - Adoption of Islamic, or Sharia, law by several northern

elections since end of military rule in 1999. Polling marked by delays, allegations of ballot-rigging.

President Obasanjo’s People’s Democratic Party wins parliamentary majority.

2003: Obasanjo wins reelection as President .

2003 July - Nationwide general strike called off after nine days after government agrees to lower recently-increased fuel prices.

2003 August – Warri riots at least 100 persons killed, 1,000 injured.

2003 September - Nigeria’s first satellite, NigeriaSat-1, launched

by Russian rocket.

2004 January - UN brokers talks between Nigeria and Cameroon about disputed border.

Both sides agree to joint security patrols.

2004: Obasanjo declared a state of emergency in response to the eruption of ethno religious violence in Plateau State .

2004 August-September Deadly clashes between gangs in oil city of Port Harcourt prompts strong crackdown by troops.

Rights group Amnesty International cites death toll of 500, authorities say about 20 died.

2005 July - Paris Club of rich lenders agrees to write off twothirds of Nigeria’s $30bn foreign debt.

January 2006 - Militants in the Niger Delta launch attacks against pipelines and commence kidnapping of foreign oil workers.

Militants demand more control

over the region’s oil wealth.

February 2006 - More than 100 persons are killed when religious violence flares in mainly-Muslim towns in the north and reprisal attacks in Onitsha.

2006 April - Helped by record oil prices, Nigeria becomes the first African nation to pay off its debt to the Paris Club of rich lenders.

2006 May - The Senate rejects proposed changes to the constitution which would have allowed President Obasanjo to stand for a third term in 2007.

2006 October - Spiritual leader of Nigeria’s millions of Muslims, the Sultan of Sokoto, is killed in a plane crash, the country’s third major civilian air disaster in a year.

April 2007: Umaru Yar’Adua , Governor of Katsina State elected President.

2008 August - Following agreement reached in March, Nigeria finally hands over the Bakassi peninsula to Cameroon, ending a long-standing dispute.

2008 November - At least 200 people are killed during clashes between Christians and Muslims in the central Nigerian town of Jos. 2009 January - The main militant group in Niger Delta, Mend, calls off four-month ceasefire after army attacks camp of an allied group.

2009 May - Niger Delta militant group Mend rejects government offer of amnesty and declares offensive against Nigerian military.

2009 July - Hundreds die in northeastern Nigeria after the Boko Haram Islamist movement launches a campaign of violence in a bid to have Sharia law imposed on the entire country.

Security forces storm Boko Haram’s stronghold and kill the movement’s leader.

2009 August - Two-month offer of a government amnesty for Niger Delta militants comes into force.

2009 November - President Yar’Adua travels to Saudi Arabia for medical treatment. His extended absence triggers a constitutional crisis and leads to calls for him to step down.

Feb. 2010: Senate proclaims Doctrine of Necessity allowing Vice-President Goodluck Jonathan to step in as Acting President without a formal letter from President Yar‘Adua.

Feb. 2010: Ailing President Yar‘Adua was returned secretly into the country by his handlers but only few persons are allowed to see him.

April 2010: Acting President Jonathan dissolves Yar‘Adua’s cabinet and constitutes a new cabinet.

May 2010: Yar‘Adua dies in Aso Rock, Jonathan sworn in as President.

Sept 2010: Jonathan says he

Continues on page 55

VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014—55

From slave port to missionary outpost, by Akran of Badagry Badagry:

BY DAPO AKINREFON AND CHARLES KUMOLU

which is remembered annually and the United Nations has proclaimed that the event should be remembered annually in August.

Today, apart from the United States where there are African Americans, who are free people, there are countries in the Caribbean which are populated

by Africans.

Given the historical significance of Badagry to precolonial, colonial and post colonial Nigeria, can we know if the centenary committee of the federal government, has any special plans for the town?

As far as I know, there is no programme. I hope the Lagos State government will do something about it.

T

HE Akran of Badagry Aholu Wheno Menu-Toyi 1 holds sway over a swathe of territory covering Badagry town and 70 adjourning villages and districts spread across the mainland and islands in Southwest Nigeria.

The influence of past rulers of Badagry is believed to have also reached the Nigerian border town of Seme.

The octogenarian present Akran of Badagry, ascended to the throne in 1977 and before then, was a journalist whose exploits in the pen profession started in 1961 in the then West African Pilot established by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, and spread across several platforms including Daily Sketch and New Nigeria where he rose to the position of Acting News Editor, South.

Before him, Badagary had been ruled by 14 paramount rulers, since the days of Akran Gbafoe in 1425.

Akran Menu-Toyi 1 is the permanent Vice-Chairman of Lagos State Council of Oba’s and Chiefs was honoured with the National Award- Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR) on 7th March, 1981. He is currently the Chancellor, University of Port Harcourt.

Nigeria is celebrating its centenary, do you think the amalgamation was a right decision?

We are enjoying the peace of Nigeria’s amalgamation because we have been together since 1914 when the Northern and Southern Protectorates were brought together. We have been having peaceful co-existence.

Though there have been series of problems since then but such problems have not ended up dividing the country. We should be happier that we are still one.

Looking at Badagry and the centenary, can you tell us the significance of the place to the centenary celebration because some accounts have it that the first administrative office of Lord Luggard and that the amalgamation document was singed here in Badagry. Can you give us insight into this?

All I know is that Badagry is the cradle of West African civilisation starting from 1839 when 500 slaves were liberated from Sierra Leone by the British and they were brought to Badagry to enable them go to their homes. Then, some of the returnees were in Badagry here, Flora Bay compound and they were the ones who appealed to the British government to send missionaries so that Badagry can become the land of the gospel.

That letter was written and dated March 2, 1841 because at that time, there was no such organization in any part of this country. The following year, the

Don’t you think that Centenary Committee ought to have considered Badagry in the Centenary celebration?

We have not been consulted about that.

•Akran of Badagry

Methodist Church sent a missionary on September 24, 1842, they also established the first primary school in 1845 and in the same year, the first story building was built in Nigeria, which is still there till today.

Later on, the British started sending their officers to Badagry.

For instance in 1851, one British officer came to discuss with King Akintoye, who was in exile here in Badagry.

That was to prepare the grounds for the British troops to arrive Lagos because they wanted him (Akintoye) to stop slave trade in Lagos.

Before the returnees arrived from Sierra Leone in 1849, Badagry had been a major slave port from the mid 15 century when the kings of Spain and Portugal sent emissaries to West African countries to, find out whether they could get strong and able bodied people to send

to the New World, which is now the United States of America.

They wanted to send them to the plantations at that time. So, after the first visit, a slave trader came around 1470, his tomb is still in front of the palace here, he was known as the Smiling Captain.

Other slave traders came after him and went to the various parts of the old Oyo Empire and some parts of Abia State of today which were major slave centers.

There was a slave market which was being developed then, slaves were brought from the hinter land and sold to European slave traders, from there, they were taken to peninsula from where they were finally taken into big boats to travel to the New World, the Caribbean countries and parts of Brazil.

So, we now refer to that journey as the triangular slave trade

There are fears that the multifaceted problems holding the nation down, might lead to the eventual breakup of the country?

(Cuts in) Like what?

Like the Boko Haram insurgency in the north, kidnapping in the South east and other structural problems affecting the nation.

(Laughs) How many people were killed? The Boko Haram insurgency is limited to the north and it started after the 2011 presidential elections. If you can remember, one leader said it will be difficult for the winner of the presidential race to govern and then, what did we see?

What is your message to Nigerians as we celebrate 100 years of our amalgamation?

My message is that we should thank God for His mercy that Luggard announced the amalgamation and after that, we got independence since 1960 and Nigeria had not broken up.

I do not think anything can break up Nigeria.

We should not think about any break up, rather, we should continue to work hard to bring about greater cooperation, politically and economically.

Nigeria has come to stay.

Landmarks since amalgamation Continues from page 54 will seek election as president.

Jan 2011 Jonathan chosen as presidential flag bearer of the ruling PDP. April 2011: Jonathan wins presidential election. Victory triggers violence in some parts of the north.

August 2011: The United Nations offices in Abuja bombed

by Boko Haram terrorist group.

Nov 2011: Biafran leader Chukwuemeka OdumegwuOjukwu dies after a protracted illness in London at 78.

Dec 2011: Boko Haram group bombs a Catholic Church in Madala on Christmas Day January 2012 - Fuel price hike stirs nationwide lockdown for more than one week forcing a government climb down.

January 2012: Boko Haram attack on Kano leads to more than

100 deaths including uprising Channels broadcast journalist, Eneche Akogwu.

March 2012 Ojukwu accorded State burial.

March 2013 Father of African literature, Prof Chinua Achebe dies at 82.

Oct 2013: President Jonathan announces plans to hold a national conference.

56 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

Edited by: Emma Nnadozie emmadozie@hotmail.com 08023145281, 08111813021

House wife baths tenants, in-law w

By ONOZURE DANIA & CHINYERE ABIAZIEM

T

HE unexpected happened few days to Christmas, exactly on Saturday, December 21, 2013 at No. 10 Magbesa Street, Kirkiri area of Lagos State, two tenants Gloria Omoyeye 29, Abiodun Farajoye 27 and David Fasintel 27, the landlady’s son, were allegedly bathed with hot water, by one Blessing Fasintel 32, the sister in-law to David, leaving them with severe burns.

Crime Alert gathered that trouble started for the trio, when one of Omoyeye’s children had a fight with Blessing’s child in their apartment and they were separated by one Bukky Omobuwa 24, a house help to Omoyeye. This they said infuriated Blessing who have had a running feud with Omoyeye, a single mother with two children and she gave Omobuwa a beating of her life.

Sources intimated Crime Alert that the feud between, Blessing and Omoyeye, has been over Blessing’s suspicion that Omoyeye may have been dating her husband.

This was said to have led to a fight in the past. Omoyeye, who was not home when the incident occurred, went to Blessing with her sister, Farajoye, to inquire what was happening. But an argument ensued which led to a fight and Blessing angrily lifted a pot of hot water from her fire and poured it Farajoye, Omoyeye and David, who came in to separate the fight. The hot water swiftly chopped off parts

of their flesh, leaving them with severe burns.

Narrating their ordeal, Omoyeye, who is a businesswoman, said that on the day of the incident, she went out for her business, but that while she was away, her house help, called her that the daughter in-law of her landlady was flogging her because she separated her own daughter and Blessing’s son, who are both 3 years old.

According to her, “ when I returned I went to her and asked why she beat up Omobuwa and didn’t wait for me to return and report to me whatever Bukky must have done to her, because it is the same girl, that has been helping in taking care of her son even when her own family refuses to take care of him.

While I was talking to her, she started insulting me and my sister instead of her to apologise for what she has done, she still had the guts to be saying rubbish, unknown to us, she already had water on fire and while we were going back to our room the next thing we heard was hot water that was poured on us and we fell down, my hand, shoulder, part of my face and arm, were burnt and Abiodun’s back and buttocks were also burnt as a result of the hot water that was poured on us.

When asked how much they have spent in treating themselves, she said they have spent N150,000 on hospital bill alone without drugs and the family of the woman did not even deem it fit to come and pay the hospital bill, the only thing they said when they

David came to the hospital, was that ‘if we want them to be responsible for the hospital bill, we should release her from the police station.’

Also narrating his ordeal, the brother in- law David Fasintei, who is also a victim of the hot water bath, said

Gloria that Blessing is a very troublesome woman, adding that when the children fought in their compound the only thing his brother ’s wife could do was to go and fight Gloria’s sister.

I and my mother were around when the incident

started but we were sitting outside the house, we didn’t know that it was serious, until somebody came to call us that they there was a fight in the compound” he said.

“My brother’s wife came to report me to my brother, that I was siding the tenants,

SFU arrests woman over N25m fraud

BY IFEANYI OKOLIE

T

Hajara Egbra

he Special Fraud Unit, SFU, said they have arrested a suspected fraudster, Hajara Egbra, over a N25million fraudulent land deal.

Crime Alert gathered that Hajara Egbra’s arrest, came following a petition sent to the SFU on June 5, 2013, alleging that in 2009, the Petitioner, a business woman purchased a plot of land measuring 2,500 sq. metres within Asokoro Extension, Abuja from the suspect on an agreed sum

of N25million and the payment was made in three installments of N10million and N8million Naira.

The Police Public Relations officer, Ngozi Isintume, said the suspect issued a receipt with an invoice No. 0073 dated 29/ 09/2009 and Invoice No. 0201 dated 06/10/2009.

“The Petitioner further alleged that the third payment of Five Million Naira was paid through First Bank cheque No. 01795293 dated 19th December, 2012. The Petitioner stated that it was while she was trying to

process the building plan and other related documents that she discovered that she has been duped.

The suspect actually sold to her a land that already has an owner. Also, the suspect gave her another plot which she had already fenced with the sum of N450,000.00 and was later told by the suspect that the plot is equally not vacant.

The suspect, Hajara Egbra who hails from Okene in Kogi State was arrested along with one Mohammed Sadiq.

Hajara Egbra, a 45years old Technical Officer with Federla Capital

Development Authority and also doubles as a business woman with a shop at Garki Modern Market, Abuja.

She confessed to the allegation levelled against her of obtaining the sum of N25million from the Petitioner. That she gave the sum of N18.5million to one Alhaji Mohammed Sadiq, a Developer while the remaining balance is for her services. Mohammed confessed collecting the sum of N18.5million from Hajara and has jumped the Police bail. Effort is on to re-arrest the fleeing suspect.”

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

— 57

Edited by: Emma Nnadozie emmadozie@hotmail.com 08023145281, 08111813021

with hot water

`The suspect Chizoba Anya Abiodun meanwhile I was holding her daughter, whom she backed while she was fighting, when she suddenly poured the hot water on my body and that of the tenants.”

According to him, when my brother was informed about the incident, he didn’t say anything, rather he went inside to sleep and my mother took her to the police station that night, the next day, I fought with my brother, up till now, he has not even come to apologise to me.”

When Crime Alert asked what he feels should be done to the lady, he said he doesn’t want her to be released. “I want them to take her to court and let the law take its course she even use to insult my mother.”

Blessing, who narrated her own part of the story, said that her 4year old son was playing with Mrs Gloria’s Omoyeye 6 year old daughter, which resulted to the two kids beating each other. She said her husband on hearing what happened, blamed her (Blessing) for not waiting to report to Gloria who happens to be their neighbour

to come back instead of going ahead to fight.

Later at night when Gloria came back, she took it lightly and told her that; she should have exercised patience, but her friend Biodun Farajoye didn’t take it that way as she approached her wearing bump shorts and gave her a slap which made Gloria and her sister Bukky, to join in hitting her with plank, beating her and pressing her neck. In a bid to defend herself, she poured them hot water. “I don’t want to fight, but since they were three, I decided to pour them the hot water so that we can die together, since they want to kill me’’ she said.

However, Blessing Fasintei, was arraigned, at Kirikiri Magistrate Court on a two count charge of assault and causing of bodily arm, before Magistrate A. Adesanya and was granted bail in the sum of N200,000, with two responsible sureties in like sum and adjourned the matter to January 27, 2014, for mention.She was however remanded to prison custody, as she was unable to perfect her bail condition.

Woman excretes wraps of narcotic on-board aircraft

BY IFEANYI OKOLIE

A

32 year old woman , Chizoba Anya is currently being quizzed by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, allegedly excreting wraps of substance that tested positive for methamphetamine on-board a Qatar Airline flight from Malaysia.

The suspect was said to have aroused suspicion following her frequent visit to the toilet. On arrival at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Lagos, three wraps of methamphetamine was found in her possession.

NDLEA commander at the Lagos Airport, Mr. Hamza Umar, said that the suspect while under observation excreted two additional wraps. In his words, “the suspect was found with three wraps which she excreted in the aircraft. While she was under observation at the Lagos airport, she excreted two additional wraps of drugs.

The five wraps which tested positive for methamphetamine weighed 80 grammes”.

Preliminary investigation also revealed that the suspect left Ghana where she ingested the drugs to Malaysia. In Malaysia, she was denied entry and made to board another flight back to Nigeria. She

started excreting the drugs at the airport in Malaysia.

The suspect in her statement said she was offered half a million naira to smuggle the drugs to Malaysia. “I was promised the sum of half a million naira but my problem started when I had immigration problem in Malaysia. I was denied entry and made to return to Nigeria after two days. While in the aircraft, I excreted three wraps and two other wraps in the NDLEA office” Chizoba stated.

Chizoba, who hails from Onitsha, said that she just completed her Higher National Diploma (HND) in Business Administration at the Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State. “I just completed my HND programme and I am from a very poor family. I wanted to use the money they promised me to assist my siblings by smuggling the drug to Malaysia” she added.

Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Ahmadu Giade in his reaction warned against get rich quick syndrome.

“Drug traffickers must avoid get rich quick syndrome and understand that a good name is better than ill-gotten wealth that comes without peace of mind” Giade stated.

The NDLEA boss also urged passengers to be vigilant and report suspicious passengers to authorities.

58— V anguard anguard,, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

Momentous events of 2013 A

S the 2013 made its exit yesterday,the year was marked by high-profile births and deaths, economic crises, and devastating loss of life through natural disasters, wars and crimes. As the space constraints permit, we bring some highlights to usher our readers into the new year.

Egypt On July 3, Egypt’s toppled Mohammed Morsi as the president of Egypt. This came after days of street protests against president Morsi who allied with hard-line Islamists during his year-long presidency. This has thrown Egypt into political turmoil..

Kenya The scourge of terrorism plaguing Africa countries made the headlines when a terrorist groups, Islamist militants affiliated with the Somali terror group Al Shabab attacked the Westgate mall in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi.

The four day siege on the mall led to the death of about 60 people and injuries to over 200 persons. Notable among the dead was Ghanian Poet Kofi Awoonor who was in Kenya for an international literary conference.

South Sudan The world’s youngest nation, South Sudan sank into a war just two a costly civil war after years of battle with Sudan for its independence in 2011, South Sudan has been beset by poverty, corruption and ethnic tensions, including between the president’s Dinka tribe, the largest in the country and Machar ’s Nuer community.

Snowden Leaks Edward Snowden reveals NSA spy allegations Snowden fled to Russia via Hong Kong after releasing the information in May, where he remains after being granted temporary asylum by the Russian government.

Typhoon Haiyan Philippines hit by deadly typhoon Typhoon Haiyan struck the southeast Asian nation on November 8, devastating Tacloban city and its surrounding area.

Around 16 million people were left without shelter, food or water. A recent official estimate put the death toll above 6000, with nearly 1800 people still missing.

NelsonMandela dies South Africa’s anti-apartheid hero passed away on December 5 after a long illness.

Mandela was celebrated for his role in trying to end racial segregation in the country. He

Late Margaret Thatcher, former British Prime Minister Late Nelson Mandela, former South African President

Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI receives his successor Pope Francis was imprisoned for more than 27 years on charges of sabotage and conspiracy and became the country ’s first black president upon his release.

Boston MarathonBomb On April 15, two bombs exploded as athletes crossed the Boston Marathon finish line, killing three people and injuring more than 250 others.

The bombing triggered a citywide manhunt for suspects Dzhokhar and Tamerlan Tsarnaev, brothers from the former Soviet Union who had moved to the United States as refugees. During their time on the run they allegedly killed an MIT police officer.

Tamerlan, the older brother, was killed in a shootout four days after the bombing.

Dzhokhar was apprehended after being found hiding in a boat trailer. He pleaded not guilty to 30 charges, including four of murder, and is in jail awaiting trial.

Pope Benedict XVI Pope Benedict XVI resigns On February 11, Benedict XVI became the first pope to resign since 1415. The 86-

Late Hugo Chavez, former Venezuelan President

Russian Foreign Minister Labrov and his Iranian counterpart.

Mikhail Khodorkovsky, freed critic of Vlamir Putin year-old cited a “lack of strength of mind and body” as his reason for standing down.

Pope Benedict A month later his successor, Argentine-born Pope Francis, was appointed on the second day of the papal conclave at the Vatican.

The 77-year-old is Latin America’s first pope. His papacy so far has been characterised by his frugality, a love of straying from his security detail to greet people in crowds, and his desire to

promote the Catholic Church’s role as a healer over its controversial doctrines on abortion and homosexuality.

Syria's Chemical weapons A three-week investigation by the United Nations after an attack in August confirmed chemical weapons had been used in the Syrian civil war, although investigators did not clarify whether they thought the Government or rebels were responsible.

US govt shutdown US partially closed for business during shutdown For 16 days in October, one of the world’s super powers partially shut down over a dispute about President Barack Obama’s healthcare

law reform and how the country would pay its bills.

Prince George The World welcomed royal baby as Prince William and Kate announced the birht of a new child called George who is an heir to the British throne.

Margaret Thatcher dies, at 87 Known as the Iron Lady, former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher died in April at the age of 87.

A polarising figure, she was transformative in British politics during her 11 years in the top job. She was seen both as a saviour who laid the groundwork for an economic renaissance, but also as a ruthless tyrant.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014—59

NEW YEARMESSAGES Draw closer to your Creator, Martins tells Nigerians Stories by SAM EYOBOKA & OLAYINKA LATONA

C

AT H O L I C Archbishop of Lagos, His Grace Alfred Adewale Martins, has urged Nigerians to use the New Year as an opportunity to forge a closer relationship with their Creator and to be at peace with their fellow men by shunning unwholesome practices and replacing same with godly lifestyles.

In a message signed by the Director of Social Communications, Msgr Gabriel Osu, Archbishop Martins also implored Nigerians not to lose hope in the face of numerous challenges plaguing the nation, but rather, to face every new day with courage and confidence, knowing that God is more than able to safe guard the country and bring it to the promised land.

“Every New Year is a new beginning. In this new year, I want to implore every Nigerian not to despair, but to trust in the saving grace of God. No matter the challenges we may be facing as individuals and as a nation, we must never forget that God

is more than able to wipe away our tears and restore back our lost glory.”

He also cautioned the political elites to avoid heating up the polity unnecessarily for their selfish interests, saying that in as much as no individual or class of people can claim the sole ownership of the country, they (the politicians) should refrain from acting as if they have the future of the country in their hands, rather than that of the Almighty.

“God is never asleep. Those who are busy causing trouble all over because of their quest for power at all cost in the year 2015, must refrain from such acts or incur the wrath of the Almighty. So many have tried it in the past and failed. At the end of it all, it is the wishes of the people that will surely prevail.”

On the forthcoming national conference, the prelate said it is a good development that would allow the various ethnic nationalities to speak out their minds on.

He, however cautioned the nation’s leaders to allow the wishes of the people to prevail by upholding the outcome of the conference, as doing otherwise may be catastrophic.

Ademowo urges leaders to stop deceiving Nigerians

D

EAN Emeritus of Church of Nigeria ( A n g l i c a n Communion), Most Rev. Ephraim Adebola Ademowo has enjoined the nation's leaders to eschew the prevalent surreptitious and preposterous acts of national deceit and bless the people with a prefered attitude of purpose, driven by the immaculate desire for a fundamentally egalitarian society that can take us all to an ethereal place of national happiness rather than the mundane and lack-luster one we presently live in.

In his New Year message, Ademowo urged all Nigerians to continue in their prayers for the soul of the nation, arguing that this country belongs to all of us and "we must not succumb to anything that will drag this country down. We all have a collective duty to take Nigeria to Utopia."

Taking a look at the nation's economy sector by sector, the Anglican priest, noted corruption and corrupt practices are

still endemic in the nation, but welcomed efforts by the Federal Government geared towards improving power generation capacity, but called on legislatos to appropriate funds for power projects across the nation.

He said this year is a special year in multiple ways, adding that for us a nation, we have attained the 100th year of our existence.

"The Economic situation of this country still calls for concern and I make this passionate appeal to the government to look critically and decisively into our economy. I hope things can be done better than they are now.

"It is painful to know that Nigeria still has a large percentage of her citizens unemployed, especially the young graduates, without adequate government plans on job creation. The resulting effect is visible in the downward trend in the social indices of peace, security, kidnapping and insurgency ravaging our land," he stated.

*Bishop of Lagos West Diocese, Church of Nigeria, (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev. Olusola Odedeji (3rd r) with his wife, Lydia (2nd r) with children and staff of Down Syndrome Foundation of Nigeria, during the Bishop’s courtesy visit during which he donated cash and food items to the Foundation in Surulere, Lagos on Monday.

2015: Omobude cautions politicians

By SIMON EBEGBULEM ENIN—AHEAD the 2015 presidential election, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, has appealed to politicians not to destroy the country’s democracy due to selfish interests.

President of PFN, Rev. Felix Omobude, in a New Year message, expressed optimism that 2014 will be a better year for the country despite the current tension, adding that the current

B

exchange of words by politicians must cease.

He said: “I appeal to our politicians to become circumspect in their utterances ahead of 2015, and ensure that they put the country first in their conducts. It is important that politicians do not destroy the country they aspire to rule.”

Omobude, who is also the president-general of Gospel Light International Ministries, GLIM, said: “It is not by accident that Nigeria is celebrating her 100 years of nationhood.

God has kept us together as a people despite our diversity.

“I call on all Nigerians to consider what God has done for us as a people and join hands together in unity to build a better, stronger and virile country that we will all be proud of.”

Noting that Nigeria will survive as nation and overcome her present challenges, the PFN boss urged Nigerians to genuinely engage in things that promote national interest, unity and progress.

Methodist prelate tasks politicians on good policies

P

RELATE, Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Samuel Chukwuemeka Kanu Uche has called on the Federal Government to initiate policies and programmes that will bring smiles to the faces of Nigerians and help everyone forget the traumatic experiences of the year 2013.

In his message made available by the church’s Media and Public Relations Officer, Rev. Oladapo Daramola, the prelate said “Nigerians need succour, relieve and renewed hope and the only way for this to become a reality is for the government to meet the aspirations and yearnings of the people through economic policies that have human face which will yield immediate dividends."

In his words: “Year 2013 was no doubt a challenging year for Nigerians. For the government, it was a year efforts were put in many sectors of the economy but in terms of actual results,

albeit the power sector, the industrial sector, employment creation, health care and road construction (and reconstruction in some cases), little have been achieved so far.

"For many Nigerians, it was a year of dashed hopes and unmet expectations. It was equally a year in which terrorism and acts of kidnapping grew in leaps and bounds

unabated despite enormous resources deployed to combat these scourges.

"These have obviously created so much insecurity and anger in the country (especially among the Youths) and it is most disheartening, that everytime mayhem is unleashed on innocent citizens of this country, the sponsors and perpetrators are never found."

CSN urges politicians to shun witch-hunting

BY CALEB ANYANSINA BUJA - The Secretary General of Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), Very Rev. Fr. Ralph Madu urged all Nigerians to turn a new leave and put God first in whatever they do as they begin the year 2014.

Madu, in a New Year message from the Catholic family also called on politicians to desist from politics of witch-hunting and ensure that masses formed the

A

centre of their administration.

Speaking to Vanguard in Abuja, Madu prayed the good Lord to protect the people in the year 2014.

“We pray that the national dialogue embarked upon by the government brings peace, understanding and harmonious co-existence in the country.

“As we enter the new year, I encourage Nigerians and our politicians to do the right things," he said.

60—Vanguard, WEDNESD AY, JANUARY 1, 2014 WEDNESDA

15 healthy resolutions for 2014

By SOLA OGUNDIPE

H

APPY new year! Today is the best time to begin to make commitments to get your health back on track; but where and how to start?

Here are 15 easy steps to start off with.

Find time to relax

Go for a long walks or enjoy a movie night with a friend or partner to take the stress off your mind.

Lose weight

Begin a long term healthy weight loss programme today. Any healthy one will do. Try the easy ones.

Get enough fresh air

Walk, run or play in the fresh air and connect with nature.

Find a passion

Figuring out where real passions lie in life, whether it is playing a sport, caring for family, following a career or making the world a better place, will help keep you healthy and active into old age.

Spend time with loved ones

Being with others is important for a balanced and happy life. It promotes better health and it doesn’t cost anything.

Drink plenty of water

Pure water can help maintain concentration and digest food. It will make you eat less.

Give your brain a rest

This will help keep your brain stay healthy. It is a great way to stay active

and sharp into old age.

Eat breakfast

Skipping breakfast may increase coronary heart disease risk, according to study.

It is an important meal that will improve concentration and also help maintain weight.

Indulge in green tea

Green tea is the most popular health drink and it has more health benefits than coffee (and it’s cheaper than coffee!).

Avoid junk food

Junk food is high in fat, calories and full of chemicals. It is not good for health.

Practice deep breathing

Do this first thing in the day and last thing at night to keep you healthier, more relaxed and focused. .

Learn to meditate

Create space within and reap the benefits of relaxation.

Avoid negative thought

Catch that negative thought before it rules. See where it is coming from so that it can naturally be replaced with something positive.

Try new food

That new vegetable or fruit or nut may become your favourite. Step out of your comfort zone. This will make you stronger.

Pone an old friend • Regular exercise such as skipping is a great way to get enough fresh air and connect with nature

Phone an old friend to catch up. Our friendships need nourishment.

3 Ps of healthy living I

SAT at a roadside bar on a busy side road in Ikeja. It was Christmas Eve. I had an hour to burn, in the hot midday sun, as I waited for tailor and hairdresser visits of my all female entourage.

My car and driver were a long visual distance away.

In shorts, T-shirt, slippers and an Atlanta Braves cap to cover my grey, I thought I had blended into the surroundings.

The fridge in the bar was powered by a small generator, as was the music blaring from huge speakers, and a tyre repairer's compressor across the road.

I wondered how these small entrepreneurs made any profit above the added costs of power generation.

My "mineral" ( how did we come up with this version of "soda"?) came chilled and inexpensive.

The three young men beside me were engaged in an alcohol fueled discussion covering women, football and politics.

"Is the APC the redemption party or a collection of strange bedfellows?

Why were so many Nigerian

musicians obsessed with sexual innuendos?

Arsenal will win the BPL. Arsenal will not win the BPL. A Pastor is driving a Rolls Royce?"

Their debate mimicked the dynamics of a music concert, with its high fast tracks and slow mellow interludes.

Our tables became united by an incident in the human and vehicular traffic in front of us.

Five motorists had caused small circular road block at the junction.

A white beaten-up pickup truck with flashing lights blared out a persistent and distinct siren as the driver tried to get through. It took about ten minutes of pedestrian intervention, shouts and (preChristmas) abuse, for the gridlock to resolve.

The lights and siren never abated for a second. To our surprise, as the truck finally eased past.....it was carrying a ram!

We all burst into laughter.

"Must be an emergency to the Vet!" I said, adding to the humour.

Moments later, I was in for

another surprise.

One of three men leaned over and said: " Good afternoon, Doctor".

Not known to have a poker player's face, my puzzled expression prompted the man, perhaps in his twenties, to raise a folded copy of Vanguard on their table.

My cover was blown.

“Afternoon gentlemen," I replied.

He smiled. "We recognized you as soon as you sat down, Sir." The other men greeted me and nodded in agreement.

Their discussion, predictably, switched to health.

"Sir, what tips can you give us to LIVE LONG?" I thought for a moment. I decided to tell them of my 3 Ps. My twist to the usual " eat well, be active don't smoke" routine.

The subject of a brief talk at a Breast Cancer Charity Gala in Atlanta many years ago.

So here it is...the 3 Ps.

Perspire

Sweat. Not the passive sweating of sitting in a hot room or in the sun, but the active sweat of exercise and muscle

activity. Do anything, even just walking, to bring on a sweat EVERYDAY.

Pee

Get urine out of your body frequently. Things like teas, coffee, alcohol..in small quantities can promote diuresis. Of course, the number one thing that promotes urine itself, is WATER.

P.....

The third P stands for an acronym related to bowel movement. Regular bowel activity, supported by a good diet rich in fruits and vegetables, is nature's own way of waste management.

Do ALL 3 Ps daily. The idea is to increase your metabolism, and help get rid of the waste products.

Imagine ALL your family's waste and rubbish stacked

inside the house every day.

Rats, cockroaches and infestations soon take over.

Odious gases, physical obstruction..and other menaces soon develop in the rooms of the house.

The same applies to that most valuable asset of yours...YOUR BODY. The 3 Ps are in-built natural mechanisms to remove harmful, toxic, unwanted substances and chemicals from the body.

All you need to do is...assist nature do its job.

•Dr. Femi Ogunyemi, FRCA, FWACS, is a member of the British Pain Society, American Pain Society, the North American Neuromodulation Society and the Aerospace Medical Association. He is a Diplomate of the American Academy of Pain Management and a Fellow in Pain Medicine from Emory University.

Vanguard Vanguard,,

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014 —61

YOUR LUCK TODAY

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139

CANCER; Professional advice may be needed over your finances but if you are sure of what you are doing you can go ahead. Be more family minded.

LEO; Some of you who are travelling purposely for love are in for a rewarding day. All of you will need to take your social life more seriously.

VIRGO; Unusual co-operation may come your way today but if you are carried away by this the whole thing may change soonest. Respect your spouse.

LIBRA; Tomorrow will prove more rewarding financially but you will have good opportunity to do things rightly within your working arena. Be loving.

SCORPIO; Although tomorrow may be your best day good opportunity to enhance your financial prospects will come your way even today. Try to be more practical however.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

I

AM sure you know what a defender is? Incase you do not know. I guess you have watched or seen a football match? If you have watched a football match, you surely will know the duty of the defender.

Are you a good defender?

Simply put, the defender is the back man that repels the rampaging attacker from scoring goals against his side.

Now, I can hear you ask: what has being a good defender got to do with it? The truth is that every good thing in life is

TERROR MUDA in “Never say goodbye”

subject to attack. The good man is subject to attack; the good fruit is subject to attack; the genius is subject to attack, the successful man is subject to attack etc.

See why you need to be a good defender?

Think about it!

By Lanre Kehinde

SAGITTARIUS; This is your day when both your personal efforts and element of good luck will bring you much desired result. The more self assertive you are today the better for you.

CAPRICORN; Tomorrow is your day; although there will be some challenges within your base of operation today, eventual success will be yours. Be more family minded.

AQUARIUS; Even if friends have failed to live up to expectation in the recent days you will need to leave the past behind you and forge ahead. Lovers are fairly favoured.

PISCES; Business challenges of yesterday notwithstanding pleasant surprises are possible. The more financially ambitious you are today the better for your cause.

ARIES; Better opportunities indicated for those of you willing to be as self assertive as possible, and it could turn out to be a happy day to be remembered by real lovers.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Princess Shii’

By Andy Akman

TAURUS; Although you will need to keep your secrets for the next few days that is not to say you should not pursue your financial interest. Take care of your health.

GEMINI; Don’t wait till tomorrow before you make an important move because good luck and success are closer to you today than you image. Be hopeful.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat th ttoo the As tr ological datee and place of bir birth Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

Who am I? Dear Joshua, Please keep my birth data secret, but I want you to analyse my horoscope bluntly so that I can know who am I; talking about my personality. Who am I ?

Olajide, Kano.

Dear Olajide, What you will find here under will prove useful if you take them seriously and utilise them.

ANALY S I S O F YOUR HOROSCOPE DATA/ PLANETARY PLACEMENT Aries that hosted the most important heavenly body (the Sun) together with indicator of mental focus lens-Mercury, is known for special leadership quality and higher degree of positive aggressiveness. Yes you were endowed with leadership talents which can manifest either in the business world or POLITICS and probably both.

It is true that Aries can be very aggressive, but with many planets placed in more mild Star signs, with less than 50% of push-full influence, loving Venus as most influential planet when you were born, certainly aggression of Aries is greatly water down to the minimum . That is not to say you the timid type but yours is a balanced personality. You are gentle, honest and straight forward person.

Preponderance of fixed and earth in your chart are pointers to the fact that you are the careful type who will not change his mind just for the fun of it.

Then as peace loving Venus was the most influential planet when you were born, peace and harmony will always come first whenever you want to take any (important and/or) decisive action.

Placement of mighty Sun (indicator of basic-self hood) the Moon (indicator of sub-conscious self/ emotion) and the Stellium (that is more than two planets in one Star sign} in Aries, Pisces and Taurus respectively meant that basic characteristics of the three Star signs stated in this paragraph are highly pronounced in your inner-self..

VIRGINIA

HOME & ABROAD

dadadekola@yahoo.com

By Lawrence Akapa

62 —

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 1, 2014

Athletics: Ebewele blames poor performance on inadequate funding F

ORMER Technical Director, Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Brown Ebewele has posited that athletes could not perform optimally in 2013 because of inadequacy of funds to prepare for competitions.

Ebewele said in Benin that if the required funds were in place athletes would have prepared adequately to perform better than they did.

“The truth of the matter is that we did our best

but we could have done better with adequate funding.

“If you consider what government puts in, there is really nothing to take away. We are not investing in sports the way it should be funded.

“Until we learn to invest properly in sports and manage the athletes well, we should not expect anything worthwhile from the AFN and its athletes.

Ebewele, who was also a former Commissioner for Sports in Edo, said

20 wrestlers for World Peace Wrestling Project in Nigeria

T

W E N T Y international professional wrestlers will eature at the inaugural World Peace Wrestling Project scheduled for Nigeria in April 2014.

The World Peace Project is a collaborative venture between the current World Wrestling Champion, Power Uti of Nigeria and a Canadian firm, Quick Connect to seek global peace.

Uti, who made the announcement at a news conference on Tuesday in Lagos, said the wrestlers would come from 15 countries.

The countries are the U.S., Canada, Britain, Germany, Brazil, Peru, France, Spain, Italy, Greece and Mexico Others from Africa include host Nigeria, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quotes Uti as saying that the round robbing contest would be held in seven Nigerian cities.

“For now, only Abuja and Lagos have accepted to host us but we are still discussing with others on the project of using sports to achieve global peace.

“Our concept of using sports for global peace has been on for a long time.

“But we are only actualising it because of our understanding of the role sports can play in international harmony,” he said.

Uti, who is currently a pastor with Living Faith Ministry, popularly called “Winners Chapel”, said the project included an international peace walk by the wrestlers.

that preparation for major international competitions required adequate funding for a successful outing.

“At the level of the O l y m p i c s , Commonwealth Games and World Championships, you must take very seriously funding and management of our athletes.

“I am saying emphatically that until that aspect is given attention, we are still going to be where we are.

“Having been part of the system for a long time, all the participants in the process are like what the late Afro-beat King, Fela Anikulapo called ‘suffering and smiling’.

“You honestly don’t expect to compete with the best in the world carrying on with such attitude. You may expect so much, but you will certainly achieve very little,” he said.

Ebewele, fondly called “Juju man” by his admirers, regretted that nothing concrete had been done to address the country ’s dismal outing at the London 2012 Olympics.

•Okagbare

Commonwealth Games: Coach lauds Nigeria’ s participation in boxing the association’s activities competition; so, it is a good

T

HE Head Coach of the Lagos State Boxing Association, Wasiu Bisiriyu, has lauded the inclusion of boxing in the sports Nigeria would participate in at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in

Glasgow, Scotland.

The Ministry of Sports recently named shooting, taekwondo, judo, athletics, wrestling and boxing as the sports in which Nigeria has a comparative advantage.

Bisiriyu, while reviewing

•Power Uti

Elena Vystropova, Azerbaijan against Edith Ogoke, Nigeria C M Y K

in 2013, said in Lagos that boxing deserved the recognition and inclusion.

“We have an array of amateur boxers in my association that the country can rely on.

“It would have been an effort in futility after grooming boxers to a dependable state and they are not allow to participate in a big event like the Commonwealth Games,” the coach said.

Bisiriyu, who led the state’s boxers to the London invitational tournament in October, said that the tournament positively impacted on the boxers.

“We also have an assemblage of elite boxers discovered in the state’s monthly boxing

thing that most of them will be at the Games.

“Last August, the Nigeria Boxing Federation organised a national open championship in Abuja which was successful and applauded by the National Sports Commission (NSC),” he noted.

Alampasu Continues from page 63 Flying Eagles at the African Youth Championship in Algeria and the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Turkey in 2013.

Alampasu was selected as the Best Goalkeeper as Nigeria’s U-17 side cruised to a record fourth win at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates October/November 2013.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 1, 2014 — 63

Schumacher still in danger A

FRESH update is imminent on Michael Schumacher, fighting for his life in a French hospital.

The German Formula 1 champion has been in a medically-induced coma after crashing while skiing in the French Alps on Sunday.

His family – wife Corinna and children Gina Maria and Mick – have been at his bedside at Grenoble hospital.

It was gathered that his condition had improved but he is still not out of danger It comes as a source close to accident investigators revealed Schumacher ’s helmet had been broken in two by the crash.

Doctors – who operated on Schumacher to treat the internal bleeding and prevent swelling of his brain inside the skull – said on Monday he would have died had it not been for the helmet.

Meanwhile fans of the

motor-racing star have been gathering outside the hospital.

One said: “When I heard the news that he had been hospitalised in Grenoble, I came straight away, I had to come.”

Another added: “I am worried like all of you and all the fans, supporters, but I still hope and I will pray for him.”

Schumacher remains in a medically-induced coma and his body temperature has been lowered to slow the metabolism and help reduce inflammation of his brain.

C M Y K

Continues from BP Solomon Kwambe, Francis Benjamin, Kunle Odunlami, Umar Zango, Barnabas Imenger, Daniel Akpeyi and Ifeanyi Ede also make the list, but former junior internationals Abdullahi Shehu and Christian Pyagbara also make the cut, with FIFA U-17 World Cup winner Dele Alampasu expectedly joining the big boys so early.

Nigeria take on host South Africa, Mali and Mozambique in Group A of the championship reserved for senior players plying their trade in the domestic League of

their countries. The competition runs from 11 th January – 1st February, 2014 in three South African cities.

In his quest to win the tournament just as he did at the full-strength Africa Cup of Nations staged in the same country early 2013, Coach Keshi has picked three goalkeepers, eight defenders, six m i d f i e l d e r s and six forwards.

Agbim, Kwambe, Benjamin and Egwuekwe are integral part of Nigeria’s A Team, while Pyagbara and Shehu played for the Continues on page 62

Second bomb kills 14 in Winter Olympic host city •IOC President condemns “despicable attack”

A

SECOND suicide bombing in as many days in the Russian city of Volgograd has left a further 14 people dead in what International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas

Maigari Continues from BP qualified for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The Golden Eaglets put the icing on the cake with a triumphant display at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

In between, the female national teams did their bits with resounding results the Flamingoes qualified for the 2014 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup while the Falconets are in the final round of the African qualification series of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Smarting from these landmark achievements, the Nigeria Football Federation has promised that the 2014 football calendar will witness even better results.

In what sounded like his New Year message yesterday, President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Aminu Maigari told Sports Vanguard, “2013 was a year of excellence, a year that brought a lot of joy to the Nigerian football family and a year that left many soccer-loving Nigerians with unforgettable

•Schumacher

Alampasu

memories.”

He said the achievements of last year will serve as a motivation for even higher targets in 2014. Said he, “2014 is going to be better as we are going to build on the achievements of the past year. We are starting with the African Nations Championship in South Africa and will crown it all with the FIFA World Cup in Brazil.”

Maigari stated that the Super Eagles Team B are good enough for the CHAN title as they have been given everything needed to do well.

“I disagree with you on the notion that the team had a short time to prepare.

We at the NFF had long, medium and short term plans for the CHAN team and they were provided with adequate camp conditions and everything they need to succeed. As far as I’m concerned we have done our beat for to win. It is left for them to deliver” the NFF boss said, adding, “I believe the Super Eagles team B will make Nigerians proud in South Africa.”

Bach has called a “despicable attack” ahead of Sochi 2014.

The two explosions over the last two days have left more than 30 dead in Volgograd, which is located 400 miles northeast of the Winter Olympic and Paralympic host city, Sochi, with just 39 days to go to the Opening Ceremony.

The blast tore through a trolleybus near a busy market in the Dzerzhinsky district during the morning rush hour and, in addition to those killed, at least 20 others were injured.

Health Minister

Veronika Skvortsova said the patients were in “a bad condition with burns, with multiple injuries typical of blastinduced wounds”.

The attack in Volgograd - which is one of the venues for the 2018 FIFA World Cup is believed to have been carried out by a male suicide bomber, which, officials said, probably worked with the same organisation behind an explosion at the city’s train station a day earlier.

“It is now possible to preliminarily say that the explosive device was set off by a suicide bomber - a man whose

body fragments have been collected and sent for genetic testing,” the Federal Investigative Committee said in a statement.

Bach told insidethegames that he has personally written to Russia’s President Vladimir Putin to express his condolences and “confidence in the Russian authorities to deliver a safe and secure Games in Sochi”.

•Thomas Bach, IOC President

Argentina Continues from BP have lined-up Ivory Coast as a replacement.

At the World Cup finals, Argentina will also face Bosnia and

Herzegovina and Iran in Group F at the World Cup. Ghana have a tough task against USA, Germany and Portugal in Group D.

GLO CAF Award

•Volgograd: Scene of the bombing.

‘Leopards’ arrive for Orange CHAN 2014 the DRC, otherwise known

O

NE-TIME winners of the inaugural African Nations Championships (CHAN), the Democratic Republic of Congo was the first team to officially arrive in South Africa on Sunday, 29 December, for the tournament. The arrival of

as ‘The Leopards’, are based in Polokwane for their Group D encounters alongside Gabon, Burundi, and Mauritania, has sparked excitement amongst the locals in the city of Polokwane.

Continues from BP May and also played a big role as Nigeria won a third Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa earlier this year.

It will be the second successive year that Drogba and Toure will make the final three nominees for this award.

Manchester City star Toure won the 2012 edition of the award, while Drogba has won it twice.

The 2013 winner will be announced at a ceremony in Lagos, Nigeria, on January 9.

Nigeria have already

won two awards after the country’s U17 team, who won a record fourth World Cup in the UAE in November, were picked as the only nominees for National Youth Team and the country ’s supporters picked for the Fair Play Award.

The Super Eagles have also been nominated along with Burkina Faso and Ethiopia for the National team of the year, while Nigeria coaches, Stephen Keshi and Manu Garba, are in the race for Coach of the Year along with Paul Put of Burkina Faso.

VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2014

GLO CAF Award: Mikel battles Yaya, Drogba

N

IGERIA’S Mikel Obi will battle Ivorian pair of Yaya Toure and Didier Drogba for the 2013 CAF African

We’ve provided for Keshi to deliver •Maigari speaks on New Year expectations

Player of the Year Award.

Chelsea midfielder Mikel helped his English club to win the UEFA Europa League in Continues on Page 63

•Mikel

Argentina seek Ghana friendly S

BY JACOB AJOM

L

AST year, Nigeria witnessed a plethora of achievements in football as the Super Eagles won the Africa Cup of Nations and

Continues on Page 63

UPER Eagles World Cup group opponents Argentina are considering a friendly against Ghana ahead of the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil.

According to reports from Argentina, the country ’s football federation believes the Black Stars can give them the needed test, similar to what they are likely to get from Ghana’s West Africa neighbours Nigeria.

A home-based Black Stars side lost 1-0 to Argentina, also a locally based side, in Cordoba in 2009.

If they fail to get Ghana, La Albiceleste Continues on Page 63

•Maigari

Keshi picks Alampasu, Egwuekwe, 21 others for forward Gbolahan CHAN Salami among 23

H

EAD Coach, Stephen Keshi, has picked first choice goalkeeper and skipper Chigozie Agbim, defender Azubuike Egwuekwe, midfielder Joshua Obaje and

players that will represent Nigeria at the 3rd African Nations Championship in South Africa.

Usual suspects Continues on Page 63

Schumacher still in coma — P. 63

•Keshi

•Essien

•Messi

Inside

— Pages 42 & 43 QUICK CROSSWORD

Sudoku TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Avarice (5) 5 Mountain-peaks (6) 8 Elbow (5) 10 Decay (6) 11 Wicked (4) 14 Gift (6) 15 Withdraw (7) 18 Golf-peg (3) 19 Males (3) 21 Cart (4) 23 Poison (5) 24 Leader (4) 27 Spot (3) 29 Fix (3) 31 Devastated (7) 32 Believe (6) 34 Sand-hill (4) 35 Loll (6) 38 Perspire (5) 39 Dislike (6) 40 Pretend (5)

DOWN 2 Regret (3) 3 Whole (6) 4 Owing (3) 5 Encounter (4) 6 Grinned (6) 7 Unclean (6) 9 Imagined (7) 12 Tank (3) 13 Ogle (4) 16 Relax (4) 17 Singer (5) 20 Remarkable (7) 22 Fever (4) 24 Harry (6) 25 Imitated (4) 26 Infer (6) 28 Greet (6) 30 Trap (3) 33 Trial (4) 36 Lout (3) 37 Silence (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Script 5, Spur 8, Anger 9, Pop 10, Less 11, Void 12, Piled 13, Larder 16, Deft 18, Emit 20, Her 22, See 23, Dam 24, Core 25, Tent 28, Teased 30, Canal 32, Boot 33, Iota 34, Col 35, Meant 36, Eyed 37, Attend.

DOWN: 1, Supple 2, Reporter 3, Pulled 4, Insistent 5, Severed 6, Prod 7, Rude 8, Asp 14, Restraint 15, Dim 17, Fee 19, Massacre 20, Hod 21, Related 26, Tenant 27, Addled 29, Able 30, Come 31, Lot.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

Printed and Published by VANGUARD MEDIA LIMITED, Vanguard Avenue, Kirikiri Canal, P.M.B.1007, Apapa. Phone: Newsroom: 018773962. Deputy Editor: 01-8944295. Advert Dept: 01-7924470; Hotline: 01-8737028; Abuja: 09-2341102, 09-2342704. E-mail: editor@vanguardngr.com, news@vanguardngr.com, letters@vanguardngr.com. Advert:advertproduction@yahoo.com Website: www.vanguardngr.com (ISSN 0794-652X) Editor: MIDENO BAYAGBON. Phone: 01-7742861, All correspondence to P.M.B. 1007, Apapa Lagos.