I've no Northern agenda - BUHARI

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 62442

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ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Abandoned mother of twins speaks: I will take my runaway husband back 53&58

IKORODU BANK ROBBERY:

Police arrest four suspects

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I've no Northern agenda — BUHARI •Says he received a national mandate and intends to fulfill his promises •Lets be patient with him, Junaid Mohammed, LP scribe, Shettima react

By Dapo Akinrefon, Gbenga Oke, Levinus Nwabughiogu

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B U J A — FOLLOWING criticisms that trailed the appointments made so far by President Muhammadu Buhari which many argued were lopsided in favour Continues on Page 5

Suicide bomber kills RCCG pastor, 5 others in Yobe 8 Mr & Mrs

TERROR ATTACK—People gather around The Redeemed Christian Church of God, after a bomb blast in Potiskum, Yobe State, yesterday. A woman suicide bomber blew herself up in the midst of the church service and killed at least five people: Photo: AP

COLUMNISTS: The Generals need to apologise to Shagari •P.20

Fuel imports: Buhari and 'the The real cabal change we need'?

•P.44 •P.19

Checkpoints to remain in vulnerable areas — MINIMAH 8

2 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

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4 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

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POCKET CARTOON

Let us give him benefit of doubt — LP scribe

COMMISSIONING—From left; Governors Ben Ayade (Cross River); Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, (Delta); with Mr Gabriel Ogbechie, Managing Director, Fynefield Petroleum FZE, and Mrs Godrey Ogbechie, Executive Director, Fynefield Petroleum FZE, during the commissioning of Fynefield Petroleum FZE’s 40 million capacity tank farm in Calabar, on Saturday.

I've no Northern agenda— BUHARI Continues from Page 1 of the north, the president, yesterday, dismissed insinuations that he was implementing a northern agenda in his appointments.

It will be recalled that President Buhari since taking over the reins of power on May 29 has, so far, made 11 appointments, out of which only one came from the South West.

Although some people considered the appointments to be “unserious positions”, many Nigerians condemned its alleged lopsidedness, saying they were signs of what to expect from the Buhari presidency.

The appointments The appointments are: Acting Chairman, the Independent National

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE Three things in human life are important: the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; the third is to be kind—Henry James

cts of loving kindness can transform Sus emotionally.

It is said that if you do not feel IMPLE a

happy, smile anyway, and happiness will likely follow. The keys to forgiveness are acts of love coupled with patience, because with the passing of time our perspectives mature. When we cultivate a golden heart, one that loves and nutures, life becomes interesting.

Selfishness is boring. When we seek the happiness, security, and well-being of another in creative love the world becomes full and engaging.

Loving others gives us a reason to develop our gifts.

Students learn more when they have to tutor younger peers, or when they learn in groups and are responsible for teaching one another.

Most great people have fine-tuned their talents in service to others. In the process, we make deeper friendships. Our friends are no longer the people we just hang out with, but they are the ones with whom we find exhilarating common cause and commitment. Finally we have serious friends, the kind who are loyal and want to keep us on our course and true to our higher selves.

Electoral Commission, Mrs. Amina Bala Zakari, Jigawa State; Director, the Department of Petroleum Resources, Mr. Mordecai Danteni Baba Ladan; the Accountant-General of the Federation, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, Kano State.

Others are the State House Chief of Protocol, Mallam Lawal Abdullahi Kazaure; Aide De Camp, Lt.-Col. Muhammed Lawal Abubakar, Kano State; Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, North West; Mr Ahmed Joda, Head Transition Committee; Mr Adamu Adamu, Secretary Transition Committee; Mr Lawal Daura, Director-General, DSS; Mallam Abdulrahman Mani, Chief Security Officer, and Femi Adesina, SA Media and Publicity, South West, In addition to the appointments, Dr. Bukola Saraki from Kwara State, (North central) and Yakubu Dogara from Bauchi State, (North East) were also elected as Senate President and Speaker, House of Representatives respectively.

Buhari has no Northern agenda

— Adesina But speaking to Vanguard in Abuja, yesterday, the Special Adviser to the president on Media and Publicity Mr. Femi Adesina, who is incidentally the only southerner in the appointments, refuted the claims that Buhari was acting a northern script against the rest of the zones in the country.

He said: “The president received a national mandate and was going to pursue it as such. The president does not have a northern agenda. He has a national agenda. He got a national mandate and that is the way he is going to exercise that mandate. I have already said it and I still maintain that”, he said.

Reacting to the criticisms trailing the appointments, national secretary of the Labour Party, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, National President of Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, Alhaji Yerima Shettima and Second Republic lawmaker, Dr. Junaid Mohammed, yesterday, called for caution in the claims of a perceived northernisation policy by the incumbent administration.

“I want to give President Buhari the benefit of doubt, he still has thousands of appointments to make.

We need not hang him on just nine of such appointments,” Ajulo said.

“However, he needs to be sensitive and responsive to our laws, values and attitude as a multi-ethnic people.

Everything counts in Nigeria and President Buhari as a politician should know that woe betides any Nigerian politician that treats with levity such issues like tribe, ethnicity, religion etc.”

He added: “President Buhari had, in his inaugural address and subsequent speeches, stressed that the job of rebuilding Nigeria is not his alone. I call him to walk the talk.”

It’s too early in the day —Shettima, President, Arewa Youths National President of Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, Alhaji Shettima on his part said it was too early to arrive at such a conclusion.

Shettima said: “I do not want to be in a hurry because some of us have our reservations.

But then, we have not seen the ministerial list, we should not be in a hurry. That does not mean we cannot learn from the past. When someone from the Niger Delta was the president, those from the region said he was their president, a lot of appointments were given to people from the zone and that created a

lot of problem for that administration.”

He, however, urged the Buhari administration not to toe the same path.

He said: “I pray Buhari will not make the same mistake because Nigeria belongs to all of us. He represents Nigeria and not only the north; he must be seen to do justice to all.”

It is non-existent — Mohammed Second Republic lawmake r, Dr. Mohammed in his reaction said the claim by some Nigerians that it’s only Northerners that are dominating the present administration is non existent.

Mohammed said: “I have never claimed to speak on behalf of the North but personally, I am sick and tired of this Northern Agenda mantra that is circulating in the political space.

“When people are saying things, they need to understand what they are talking about. During President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, he picked Ita Ekpeyong who happens to be his kinsman and 11 senior Directors who were all Northerners were retired just to make Ekpeyong Director of DSS. Then nobody accused Jonathan of anything,” he stated.

He said further: “I cannot criticize what is non existing. Are some people claiming the North is not part of this country anymore? I am not tribal. I believe whatever that is being said about this Northern Agenda is irrelevant and false, so I would not want to respond to people trying to create confusion. Nigerians should not allow themselves to be used”.

6—Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

7 die of cholera in Ebonyi A

By Peter Okutu

BAKALIKI—SEVEN persons were weekend confirmed dead in three communities in Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Addressing newsmen in Abakaliki after distributing relief materials worth over N400,000 to the affected communities in the area, the House of Representatives member, representing Ezza North/Ishielu federal constituency, Anayo Nwonu, expressed dissatisfaction with the outbreak.

According to him, the intervention carried out by his office is meant to mitigate the impact of the outbreak on the people. He advised the people of the area to desist from living in dirty environment and adhere strictly to sanitation laws and regulations.

Reacting to the development, one of the medical doctors mobilized to tackle the outbreak, Dr. John Nweze, of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, FETHA, listed Eka, Umuzekoha, Umuezoka and Oriuzor as communities affected by the outbreak.

“It cuts across people of all ages.

So far, a woman of child bearing age is among the dead; a young boy of about 13 years is among

CULTISM:

Police nab 2 vigilante members in Delta

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By Ochuko Akuopha

LEH—AT least two members of a vigilante team at Oleh in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State have been arrested by the police for their alleged involvement in cult activities.

This came as unspecified number of youths in the area renounced membership of their cult groups, weekend.

The vigilante members, sources said, were among scores of members of various cult groups apprehended by the police in the clampdown on cultists in the area.

It would be recalled that cultists went on rampage in the town last week, unleashing mayhem on residents of the area, following a violent clash between members of rival cult groups.

A source who craved anonymity, told journalists that the two vigilante team members were members of rival cult groups.

“In their confessional statements, some of the cultists arrested during the raid told the police that the two vigilante members were among members of the rival cult groups that have been causing trouble in the town,” the source said.

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the dead and a child of 8 years was also among the dead.

Those that were rushed to the hospital for treatment before we left the area were elderly men between the ages of 50 and 60; these victims though alive,

were in critical condition,’’ he said.

Similarly, the member representing Ezza North West constituency in the state House of Assembly, Victor Nwite, called on the state Ministry of Health

to expedite action towards ridding the state of the deadly disease.

Nwite further charged the ministry to immediately carry out sensitization programmes in communities across the state, so that enlightenment about the disease and its prevention could be properly disseminated.

Father exonerates principal accused of impregnating daughter

By Marie-Theresa Nanlong

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ACCIDENT: Scene of an accident opposite the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, office on Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in Awka, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

Controversy trails death of doctor in Benin zAs family dismisses suicide claim

By Simon Ebegbulem

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ENIN CITY— CONTROVERSY is trailing the death of a 49-yearold Chief Consultant Gynaecologist and Managing Director of Hope Medical Centre, Benin City, Dr. John Abode, last Tuesday, as family members disagreed with the claim by the wife that he committed suicide.

The news that the deceased who also was a staff of Edo State-owned Stella Obasanjo Hospital Benin City, shocked both his colleagues and family members since the deceased who is doing well in his profession recently opened his private clinic.

The widow was said to have informed the police that the deceased committed suicide in his wardrobe at about 12noon last Tuesday.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Stephen Onwochei, who reacted to the

incident, pointed out that before his men got to the scene, the wife had moved the lifeless body out of the wardrobe, adding that this made it difficult for the police to ascertain his exact position at the point of death.

However, the family and four pathologists swung into action last Saturday to conduct autopsy to ascertain the actual cause of death.

Vanguard learned that preliminary report indicated that the deceased died as a result of cessation, which meant he might have used a belt to commit suicide or strangled by unknown persons.

The suspicion that the medical doctor may have been strangled became glaring when one of the police pathologists touched the rails used in building the wardrobe and they pulled out with ease, an indication that the rails could not have carried the weight of the deceased.

However, two of the pathologists have travelled to

Lagos to conduct more test on the deceased but a family source told Vanguard that the police must do their job properly. ‘’They should ask the wife how come when she claimed she saw the deceased body, she did not raise alarm to attract people. She waited from that afternoon till 7pm to inform the elder brother of the deceased.

“Our brother could not have committed suicide because he has no reason to do that. He just opened a very big hospital in Benin. And from the autopsy so far, it is clear that he was strangled. ‘’If he committed suicide in the wardrobe, how come the wardrobe is neatly packed? So the Police must investigate the wife seriously because we know they have issues in the past. ‘’Our brother did a surgery a day before his death, he was okay, so the claim that he committed suicide is rubbish,” the source said.

OS—THE father of a 19-year-old student of Federal Government College, FGC, Jos, allegedly impregnated by the Principal of the College, Mr. Muhammad Manko, has denied the allegation.

According to him, the allegation is an attempt by detractors to defame the character of his daughter and that of the principal.

The girl’s father, Alhaji Suleiman Ahmad, explained that his family had a close relationship with the said Principal, adding that their daughter, Aisha, an SSS 3 student, was handed over to the principal to be her guardian while in the boarding house.

It would be recalled that some media houses, (not Vanguard) reported that the Principal of Federal Government College, FGC, Jos, had impregnated the student and offered to pay her dowry so she could become his wife.

Report also had it that the Parents Teachers Association, PTA, of the college was seeking the transfer and punitive measures against the principal, while some parents were thinking of taking their wards out of the college to avoid sexual harassment.

Alhaji Ahmad said: “When the school was on boarding, I made Muhammad to be her guardian, and up till now I made him to be her guardian, so I can say that a relationship exists between them, but not in area of marriage.

“I know that the principal is very much aware of the rule that says he cannot seek for marital relationship with any of his students and therefore, cannot talk of marrying my daughter."

Medical director in critical condition after gun attack

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By Esther Onyegbula

AGOS—A medical director, identified as Dr. Jatto Stephen, is currently lying critically ill at an undisclosed hospital in Lagos, following gunshot wounds he sustained when armed men suspected to be assassins trailed and shot him.

Dr. Stephen, who is chairman

of Ijaiye Ojokoro chapter of Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, and Chief Medical Director of D. Champion Hospital, was said to be on his way home from office on June 24 when the incident occurred.

Vanguard learned that three armed men in a Toyota Corolla car double-crossed him at about 7pm that fateful day but for divine

intervention, the doctor would have been killed.

An ey witness, Olatian Waziri, told Vanguard: “Dr. Stephen was driving in his SUV with number plate LSR 684 DA when the gunmen shot him twice and immediately fled the scene.’’

The source added that Dr Stephen would have bled to death but for the quick

intervention of the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Alakuko Police Station, Chief Superintendent of Police, Mr Musa Alim, who received a distressed call and dispatched anti-robbery team to the scene.

It was learned that it was the police team that took the doctor to a private hospital for treatment.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015—7

I didn't beat my wife—SUSWAM

By Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North

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MMEDIATE past former governor of Benue State, Dr. Gabriel Suswam, has denied reports that he battered his wife in London, over which he was briefly arrested and detained by the police.

The former governor also denied that his wife, Yemisi, looted the state treasury while he was governor of the state.

Suswam, in a statement personally signed by him, described the reports, which went viral weekend, as the handiwork of elements bent on tarnishing his image for political reasons.

According to an online medium, the former governor was arrested by the Metropolitan Police Domestic Violence Officers, for battering his wife.

He was allegedly booked into the London detention centre for several hours before a judge set a £5,000 bail bond, which he met, before he was released.

zSays mistress in detractors' imagination z‘My beloved wife and I were in Germany' Germany with my wife on vacation?

“I also wish to ask the masterminds of this outlandish incident to disclose the street and the number of my London house, where the alleged assault took place as every

house in London has identity.”

On the claim that Yemisi’s trauma was as a result of the overbearing influence of her mistress, one Shidoo, Suswam said the imaginary mistress “exists only in the figment of the authors' imagination.”

The former governor also refuted another report alleging that his wife and her associates drove in two large trucks to Benue State Liaison Office in Abuja, with the intent to cart away expensive furnishings.

‘I wasn't in London’

However, describing the report as fictitious, Suswam denied ever going to London with his wife, saying he had been in Germany on vacation with her.

He also challenged authors of the said report to name the street and address of his said house in London.

He said: “This fictitious report about the incident involving me in London is full of red herring because the allegations are false, unless the authors still have plans to later inform the public that it was a home video.

“Since I and my beloved wife left the shores of Nigeria, we have never been to London.

Unknown to the author of mischief, I was in Germany on a private trip with my wife at the material time.

“So where did the author of the said report and his fairy tale sources get their information from that I was arrested in London, when I was actually in

PROTEST: Some of the 51,000 recruited Federal Task Force officers seeking Lagos State government's assistance, weekend.

Former Bayelsa Speaker’s wife regains freedom zKidnappers sent her off with N18,000, bag of fish

By Samuel Oyadongha

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ENAGOA—THE kidnapped wife of former Speaker of Bayelsa State House of Assembly and ex-Acting governor of the state, Madam Martha Nestor Binabo, has regained her freedom.

The 48-year-old woman was handed over to a negotiator at Buguma area of Rivers State in the early hours of yesterday, according to a family source.

While some denied knowledge of payment of ransom, others claimed that

N8.2m was paid to secure her freedom.

The kidnappers were said to have warned the family not to involve the police in any rescue effort.

Madam Binabo was allegedly released with a transport fare of N18,000 and a bag of fish.

When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Asinim Butswat, said he was yet to be briefed on the development but a family source confirmed her release, saying “she was well taken care of by the kidnappers.”

It was learned that the kidnappers gave her N18,000 as transport and a big bag of fresh fish for her family.

Madam Binabo was kidnapped last Monday by armed men clad in military uniform at Abura on the outskirts of Yenagoa, the state capital.

The gunmen were said to have lured their victim outside her company’s gate for a talk only to force her into a waiting car and drove towards Otuokpoti sand dump, where they escaped into the creeks in a speedboat.

Two suspected bank robbers nabbed in Ondo

By Dayo Johnson

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K U R E — DETECTIVES from Ondo State Police Command have arrested two suspected criminals, who specialized in robbing bank customers across the state.

According to the police, the suspects (names withheld) always attacked unsuspecting customers around banks' premises, using motorcycles.

A police source told Vanguard that the suspects, said to have come from Akwa Ibom State, were arrested at about 11a.m. after robbing one Henry Aguguom in Akure.

They reportedly trailed Henry from a bank and disposed him of the money he had just withdrawn.

OUR ERROR

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ESTERDAY, as part of the lead story of our paper (Sunday Vanguard) entitled ‘Crack in APC widens, Buhari, Tinubu disagree on way forward,’ we published that Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, issued a statement two weeks ago “stating that Tinubu is the National Leader of the party.”

We regret to say Alhaji Mohammed did not issue any such statement. We apologise for the error and any inconvenience this may have caused the respected party leader.

— Editor

IKORODU BANK ROBBERY: Police arrest four suspects

By Evelyn Usman & Ifeanyi Okolie

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AGOS—FOUR suspected members of the gang, led by a lady, that robbed banks at Ikorodu, Lagos, a fortnight ago have been arrested by police in Lagos.

The robbers operated for close to two hours, carted away about N80 million from the two banks, using Ipakodo jetty as escape route.

Information at Vanguard’s disposal revealed that three of the suspects were arrested around Ikorodu,while the fourth C M Y K

was arrested in Ondo State.

Police sources revealed that the suspects at Ikorodu were arrested by operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, Friday, following a confessional statement by one of them.

It was gathered that the first suspect was arrested by some soldiers in Ogun State, with some bundles of naira notes in N1,000 denomination, which had the seal of the affected banks.

The suspect, it was gathered, was searched by the soldiers who suspected his movements.

Thereafter, the soldiers were said to have contacted the Lagos State Police Command, consequent upon which the outgoing Commissioner of Police, Mr. Kayode Aderanti, directed SARS operatives to carry out further investigation.

Vanguard also gathered that the former SARS boss, Abba Kyari, and his former deputy, James Okeke, who had been transferred to force headquarters, Abuja, and a police division in the state were invited to investigate.

Okeke was said to have led operatives to Ondo, where the

suspect was interrogated.

Police sources hinted that the suspect disclosed that he was on his way to his home town, Okitipupa, to hide.

He was said to have mentioned the names of three others, who reside at Ikorodu.

At the time of arrest, it was discovered that the suspects had used their loot to buy exotic cars and plots of land in Lagos and other South-West states.

So far, three cars, all SUVs, had been recovered from them.

The suspects have reportedly confessed that some of their members were recruited from

different parts of the country.

Police sources stated that the investigation might be extended to neighbouring West African countries, where some of the suspects were said to have fled.

The arrested suspects are expected to be paraded today by the outgoing command boss, Aderanti, before handing over to his successor, Mr. Fatai Owoseni.

Contacted, spokesman for the command, Kenneth Nwosu, said investigation was ongoing and the public would be informed of progress made.

8—Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Suicide bomber kills RCCG pastor, 5 others in Yobe zSupport Buhari to end Boko Haram attacks, Jonathan urges Nigerians

By Abiodun Alade, with agency reports

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OTISKUM — A SUICIDE bomber blew himself up, yesterday, inside a church in Potiskum, Yobe State killing five worshippers in the latest series of attacks, a police officer and witness told AFP. The bomber entered the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, at 9:55 am located on the outskirts of the city and detonated his explosives.

“Four worshippers died instantly while the fifth victim gave up shortly after she was taken to hospital,” a police officer involved in the evacuation told AFP. “The victims included a woman and her two children, the pastor and another worshipper,” added the officer who spoke on condition of anonymity.

An eye witness, Garba Manu, told AFP: “The bomber arrived on a motorised rickshaw and as soon as he entered, a loud explosion ripped through the church which is under construction. I saw him walking in and he didn’t raise any suspicion. The dismembered body of the bomber was also recovered.”

It will be recalled that Potiskum last suffered a twin suicide attack on June 15, in which 10 people were killed and several others injured.

The insurgents have launched a series of attacks on mosques, villages and markets in neighbouring Borno State in the past few days, claiming more than 200 lives.

The use of improvised explosive devices and suicide bombings have increased since May 29 when President Muhammadu Buhari took office vowing to crush the rebellion.

According to the AFP, at least 450 people have lost their lives since that date.

Support Buhari to end Boko Haram attacks, Jonathan urges Nigerians Meanwhile, former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerians to support President Muhammadu Buhari in tackling the Boko Haram insurgents in the country.

Jonathan, who lamented the continuous attacks of the terrorists in the country, noted that the death of any Nigerian at the hands of Boko Haram is a sad reminder that the war on terror is a task for all Nigerians not just the armed forces “The death of any Nigerian at the hands of terrorists is a sad reminder that the war on terror is a task for all Nigerians not just the armed forces,” he posted on his Facebook account to his almost C M Y K

two million followers.

He also urged Nigerians to continue to pray for peace in the country and support the government of Buhari in

taming the acts of terror.

“I urge all Nigerians to continue to pray for peace in Nigeria and to support the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari as

the government does its best to bring an end to these acts of terror and secure all Nigerians. May God bless Nigeria,” Jonathan added.

CELEBRATION: From left: Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki; Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II; US Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, his wife, Mrs. Entwistle and Sen. Dino Melaye during the United States of America (USA) Independence Day celebration at the US Embassy, Abuja.

Check-points to remain in vulnerable areas —Minimah zSays some soldiers join army to own property, for employment

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AIDUGURI — THE Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah, said yesterday, that military checkpoints and road blocks will remain in highly vulnerable regions in the country.

Minimah who spoke at the inter-denominational church service to mark the Nigerian Army Day celebration 2015 (NADECL) in Abuja said, contrary to general perceptions, not all military check points are being removed.

It will be recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari, two weeks ago, directed the withdrawal of soldiers from the streets back to the barracks.

The army boss, however, clarified yesterday that, “indeed, we will re-establish some check points that were removed like in the SouthEast and some of the SouthSouth areas where kidnapping and ransom exist. So the road blocks and check points will remain in certain areas. And in the areas where they cause hardship for citizens, we are taking steps to ensure that they are presented in such

a way that citizens will experience less hardship.”

Minimah also lamented, yesterday, that some soldiers did not join the army to fight but to either own property or for employment and vowed to continue to set up court-martial to check indiscipline among Nigerian troops.

Minimah said the army is taking all proactive measures to restore battle confidence of the troops.

He explained that courtmartial was set up to try those soldiers and officers who ran away during the operation noting that there were saboteurs who believed the war was not to be fought and also those who believed in the war sentiment and showed cowardice.

He said some of the soldiers joined the army to own property and others joined the army for employment, adding that they did not join to fight.

Said he: “I must set up courtmartial and if you are in my place and you did nothing you are not worth being a Chief of Army Staff. I did that, I have no regret. I am setting up more court-martial to try soldiers who ran, who showed cowardice, or abandoned troops and equipment and ran

away.

“Why are you in the army?

Why are you running away?

Is that the army we want in Nigeria?” Minimah asked.

The army chief said any soldier who cannot fight for his country should not exist, adding that the oath of allegiance of the military commands that a soldier should fight.

According to him, the oath also said that if possible the “soldier should lay down his life for his fatherland and that is the oath we all took.”

Asks Nigerians to be patient on fight against terror

Minimah appealed to Nigerians to be patient, assuring that the fight on terrorism would soon be over.

However, he said that more time was needed and with the support of the citizenry the fight will be over.

He said the choice of Maiduguri for the celebration is for the army to identify with the government and people of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States, and the entire North Eastern region that the army share their pains.

He also said the celebration in Maiduguri would boost the morale of troops operating there.

NGE donates N1m to NIJ

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AGOS— THE Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), weekend, donated N1 million to the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Ogba, Lagos, in line with its statutory responsibility to the institution, as a member of the board.

While presenting the cheque to the Provost of the institute, Mr. Gbemiga Ogunleye, Vice President (West), Mr. Steve Ayorinde, who led the delegation, commended the management of the institution for its efforts towards promoting the ideals of journalism.

Ayorinde said the gesture was in response to the appeal by the management of the institute for assistance and approved by the Standing Committee of the NGE, adding that the association would have loved to do better but for other competing commitments such as the recent purchase of a befitting Editors’ House in Lagos and acquisition of a land in Abuja for the proposed Editors’ plaza.

He also stated that the leadership of NGE was in transition with the Guild’s Deputy President, Mr. Garba Deen Mohammed, currently acting as the President, saying it has become necessary to call for an extraordinary convention to fill in the gap created by the appointment of Mr. Femi Adesina as Special Adviser on Media to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Speaking earlier, Mr. Ogunleye who recently took over the mantle of leadership of the institution, said the institute was currently embarking on upgrading its infrastructural and technological facilities to meet the demands of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), the regulatory body for technical education as well as training and re-training of teachers.

He said the institute was facing some financial challenges as a non-profit institution and sourcing for funds from corporate organizations, philanthropists to meet its objectives and aspirations became inevitable to provide excellent training forits students.

He commended NGE for its kind gesture and implored other organizations and wellmeaning individuals to emulate it, as it would “encourage academic and professional excellence in media practice, the development of the Nigeria media industry,and by extension, a better Nigerian society.”

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015—9

Fuel scarcity persists despite NNPC's assurance L

By Sebastine Obasi & Michael Eboh

AGOS — THERE seems to be no respite to the fuel crisis situation in the country, as the scarcity continued unabated, weekend, in Lagos Abuja, Nasarawa and environs.

This is happening despite the assurance given by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, that there is enough stock of petrol.

Vanguard learnt that the situation was made worse by the agitation of independent marketers that the Federal Government needs to pay them the more than N250 billion they claimed to be owed.

The marketers were said to be apprehensive that the Buhari administration may end up not paying them as they claimed.

They, therefore, deem it necessary to arm twist the government.

To make good their threat, they have resorted to hoarding the product, thereby creating artificial scarcity. Most filling stations now open at night and sell at N100 per litre. Techno, Oando and MRS filling stations on Ojodu-Abiodun road, by Ojodu Berger area of Lagos were seen closed as at the time Vanguard visited.

Vehicles were seen packed hoping to get the product, while the attendants refused to comment on the situation.

Similar long queues were seen at Mobil, Conoil, at the tollgate end of the LagosIbadan expressway, as well as Texaco and MRS at Ojota area of Lagos. Also, the NNPC station at Second Rainbow bus stop on the ever busy Mile 2Oshodi expressway was closed to motorists who went to buy products. The same is applicable to all other fillings stations between First Rainbow and Mile 2.

Black market booms in Abuja

The long queues that had been a constant phenomenon in the few petrol stations selling the products in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, remained, as motorists spent a minimum of six hours on the queue before they could get the products to buy.

Some of the petrol stations, such as MRS, along the Kubwa Expressway, was seen selling with only two pumps, despite the fact that when Vanguard visited the station, it just finished taking delivery of a truck-load of petrol.

Also, at the NNPC Mega Station, along the Kubwa Expressway, officials of the fuel station were seen conniving with security officials, to collect C M Y K

N1,000 each from impatient motorists who refused to join the queues. The motorists are then allowed into the station through the exit gate to purchase the product at the detriment of other lawabiding motorists who had been on the queue for hours.

Again, a number of fuel stations in Kubwa, Lugbe and the Central Business District, which had been shut down throughout the day, were seen in the wee hours of the night, selling to individuals and black market operators in drums and plastic containers.

This was even as the black marketers continued to have a field day, displaying their wares at major highways in Abuja and environs. The black marketers, who sell their products at between N180 to N250 per litre, were seen at almost all the petrol

stations in Abuja, selling to motorists who did not want to join the long queues.

for too long and is gradually becoming a national embarrassment.

Motorists express concern

We 're working to arrest situation —NNPC

Motorists who spoke to Vanguard expressed concern over the perennial fuel scarcity and wondered why the Federal Government is yet to make any serious pronouncement about the situation.

One of the motorists, Mr. Chisom Nnamdi, lamented that the fuel crisis is taking a toll on the lives of citizens, stating that getting fuel to buy from the petrol stations is gradually becoming an herculean task.

According to him, Nigerians are gradually running out of patience with President Muhammadu Buhari, adding that it is high time the President took a decisive step towards addressing the fuel situation which has lingered

However, Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, told Vanguard that the corporation is doing all within its powers to arrest the situation.

He expressed optimism that the fuel situation will stabilise from today (Monday), adding that the NNPC has been constantly supplying fuel across the country, both to its retail outlets and some major and independent petroleum marketers. He said the NNPC has resolved to publish data of its fuel supply to marketers on a daily basis, in a bid to update Nigerians on the

situation of things.

The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) has also claimed that 188 truckloads of fuel, an equivalent of 6.2 million litres of petrol had been supplied to Abuja to ease off the fuel queue in the city.

Mohammed Saidu, Spokesperson of the DPR in Abuja, had blamed the reemergence of fuel queues in petrol stations to a drop in the lifting of fuel by marketers from Suleja depot.

He stated that there had been a shortfall in products supply, adding that with the increase in the supply of more than six million litres towards the end of last week, the queues at filling stations would soon disappear.

He argued that there was no reason why marketers would want to hoard fuel when the product is available. Saidu, however, warned that any marketer caught indulging in hoarding, under-dispensing, or cheating motorists in any form would be made to face wrath of the law.

No stolen funds'll be laundered through US banking system —US envoy

By Victoria Ojeme

A

BUJA — The United States (US) has disclosed that it would ensure that no stolen funds from Nigeria are laundered through its banking system.

The US Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, made this disclosure during his country ’s 239th independence anniversary celebration, in Abuja, Saturday.

He said: “As you fight corruption, we offer technical assistance, training for investigators and prosecutors, and a commitment to ensure that no stolen funds are laundered through our banking system. As you improve the business climate, we encourage trade and investment.

“As you fight Boko Haram and secure and rebuild the Northeast, we will continue to help in every appropriate way. As you lead the effort to provide humanitarian aid to those driven from their communities and help them return home, we will assist with food, medical care, and education programmes.”

Entwistle stated that the US would help companies to invest in building more electricity infrastructure, especially environmentallyfriendly power generation, as the Federal Government continues privatization of its power grid, through

INSTALLATION: From left: Otunba Bolaji Onabadejo, District Governor 9110 Nigeria; Dr. Chris Ogbechie, Chairman, Diamond Bank Plc; immediate past President, Rotary Club Lagos, Ayo Banjo and the 55th New President, Larry Agose after his installation ceremony during the 55th installation ceremony of President 2915/ 2916 of Rotary Club of Lagos, in Lagos. Photo: Diran OShe President Obama’s Power Africa Initiative.

“As you increase your commitment to healthcare and education, we support those efforts too. Every step of the way, we will fulfill the commitment of our Declaration of Independence made 239 years ago, to treat all of humanity, in peace, as friends,” he added.

He assured that the US would stand “ with every Nigerian who believes that this country can be healthier, safer, and more prosperous.”

Entwistle said Nigerians have no better friends than

the Americans.

His words: “As I told President Jonathan when I arrived in Nigeria in November 2013, and as Secretary Kerry told President Buhari when they met immediately after the presidential inauguration (and, as I am sure President Obama will tell President Buhari directly when he receives him in the Oval Office at the White House on July 20), the people of Nigeria have no better friend than the United States.

“We have maintained a robust engagement in

Nigeria for many years, and our partnership with your great nation runs deep. Over the years, we’ve worked with the Government of Nigeria on a host of issues—on elections, security, the Niger Delta, fighting infectious disease, and spurring broad-based, inclusive economic growth, just to name a few.

“It is clear that the future of Nigeria belongs to the people of Nigeria. More specifically, it belongs to Nigeria’s heroes — to those men and women who are brave enough to believe that they can change the world.”

10—Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Human trials of HIV vaccine begin

By Sola Ogundipe

T

HE success of an experimental vaccine trial with rhesus monkeys is motivating a pharmaceutical company to undertake experimental, Human Immuno-deficiency Virus, HIV vaccine tests in Thailand, East and South Africa, and the United States of America, US, with 400 healthy participants taking part in the first phase of the trials.

Scientists say the vaccine protected half of a batch of monkeys against the Simian Immunodeficiency Virus, SIV, which is very similar to HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. This development came to light just as a former researcher at Iowa State University, US, was jailed for fraudulently securing millions in funds for further research on a potential vaccine for HIV that turned out to be fake.

Janssen, the pharmaceutical arm of Johnson & Johnson, is testing the vaccine on humans, for the first time in eight years since a pharmaceutical company last attempted an experimental HIV vaccine trial on humans.

Researchers are optimistic that if results of the current human study are as good as the result in the non-human primate test subjects, then a larger scale clinical trial could begin within the next two years.

A study published in the journal, Science, revealed that monkeys used for the new study received shots of the experimental vaccine and were then injected with SIV, which is very similar to HIV. A total of six injections of SIV were given to the monkeys to find the point where the vaccine would fail.

50 per cent efficacy

The two-step vaccine not only protected half the monkeys, but their bodies produced antibodies that can be measured to show how well-protected the monkeys are.

...As Lagos Speaker give hers food items, beverages, cash

By Olasunkanmi Akoni COMMISSIONING: Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (3rd right), his wife, Bolanle (right), Chairman, Brownsville College, Mr. Hameed Kasumu (middle), his wife, Alaba (3rd left), her son, Mohammed (2nd right), Dr. Victor Obiakor (left) and his wife, Mirna cutting the cake to officially open and commission Brownsville College at Park View Estate, Ikoyi, on Saturday.

One of the doctors involved in the study said that they are not certain the vaccine that is protecting the monkeys will protect humans.

Vaccine holds promise

But in a statement, Dr. Mary Marovich, who is Director of Vaccine Research at the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIAID, described the new AIDS vaccine as promising.

Thirty-five million people have AIDS. Of those 35 million,

3.2 million are children, who received the virus through their infected mothers. With an estimated 3.4 million persons living with HIV, and more than 60,000 babies born with HIV annually, Nigeria has the 2nd largest burden of HIV in Africa after South Africa.

Scientist jailed for fake claim

In a related development, Dong-Pyou Han, who was a researcher at Iowa State University, has been jailed for pretend-

L

AGOS—THE General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye has urged Nigerians to pray for and cooperate with the Nigeria Police Force in its efforts to curb lingering security challenges in the country.

Speaking during a special prayer session tagged: “Divine Security” organised for members of the Nigeria Police Force at the church national headquarters in Ebute-Meta, Lagos, Pastor Adeboye said there is need to intercede for policemen as they C M Y K

ing to have found a potential vaccine for HIV. Han, who resigned as Assistant Professor of Biomedical Sciences in 2013, after admitting that he had falsified his research, even mixing human antibodies with rabbit blood samples to make it appear more effective, was charged with falsifying HIV vaccine research, was sentenced to four and a half years behind bars, and ordered to repay more than $7.2 million that his team received in using the fake data.

Lagos re-introduces computer-based test in schools

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AGOS—GOVERNOR Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State at the weekend stressed the need for constant review of the educational curriculum in schools to reflect current challenges in the nation.

Ambode, who spoke at the official commissioning of Brownsville College in Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, said while the state continues to encourage private sector participation in education, quality and standard will

not be compromised.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Habib Aruna, Ambode said that while knowledge acquired through education should prepare young people to face with confidence, both present and future challenges, it must be structured in a way that is effective and align with changing times in the 21st century.

“Let me however reiterate that for us to achieve our goal of raising a new generation of responsi-

INSECURITY: Adeboye organises prayers for policemen

By Olayinka Latona

More support for abandoned mother of 3 sets of twins

face lots of challenges and attacks during the cause of discharging their duties.

Enumerating some of the challenges, Adeboye prayed that God will continue to guide, protect and give them necessary wisdom needed in discharging their duties adding that the members of the police force also need divine protection.

He also urged them to put their trust in God, who alone is able to surround them with His wall of protection.

In his response, The Inspector General of Police, IGP Solomon Arase, who was represent-

ed by Commissioner of Police, in charge of Administration, Lagos State, Ngozi Iloh, appreciated the gesture of RCCG in organising the special prayer for members of Nigeria Police.

She also charged members of the force to uphold righteousness in all their activities, and never relent in discharging their duties in ensuring there is peace in the country.

Also in attendance was AIG in charge of Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), Yahaya Garba Ardo, Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP, Olatunji Akingbola, DSP Tunde Aluko, Dr. Sola Sowemimo, amongst others.

ble leaders, with a broad knowledge base, the educational system needs to undergo a wide range of reforms with a curriculum that is constantly reviewed and updated to reflect current challenges”.

“Our students need to know where we are coming from to take us to where we are going”, the Governor said.

He said his administration is considering the reintroduction of computer based test in all its public secondary schools, expressing optimism that it will aid students prepare adequately for future post secondary school examinations particularly the University Matriculation Examination which is now computer based.

In his welcome address, the Chairperson, Board of Trustees of the School, Mr. Hameed Kasumu, said the drive to establish the school was not to make profit but about contributing to the shaping and development of the future generation.

He added that he has resolved along with directors of the school that some of the profit would be channeled towards cancer research to enhance detection and ultimate cure.

The governor was accompanied by his wife, Bolanle and other dignitaries to the event.

L

AGOS—THE mother of three sets of twins, whose husband and father absconded recently, from their Agege, Lagos home, Mrs. Ruth Uche, 34, has continued to be favoured by Nigerians, both at home and in Diaspora.

Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode last weekend approved the immediate rehabilitation and provision of welfare assistance to Uche, who had earlier visited the state government Secretariat, Alausa, to narrate her ordeal.

Yesterday, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, visited the Uches at their Agege residence, at the weekend to lend support to the cause.

Obasa, on behalf of the state assembly, presented food items, beverages and undisclosed cash to the woman.

The speaker, while rejoicing with the woman for safe delivery of another set of twins, said, “We should continue to thank God.” Describing children as gifts from God, Obasa urged Uche to always give thanks to God in whatever situation she finds herself.

While assuring Mrs. Uche of state government’s assistance, he advised residents to always make use of the health facilities provided by the state as they were built for their use and improve their health.

Mrs. Uche expressed appreciation to the governor and the speaker, saying she was overwhelmed with joy at the gesture and the visit.

“I’m overwhelmed with joy at this visit and I pray to God to always be with you and continue to bless you,” she said.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 11

LCCI to host CBN, private sector dialogue

By Naomi Uzor

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AGOS—THE Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), yesterday, said it is set to host a dialogue session with the Central Bank of Nigeria, (CBN) on the Foreign Exchange Policy.

The Director General, LCCI, Mr. Muda Yusuf, in a statement said the forum will offer an opportunity for stakeholders to engage the CBN on the recent forex policies, especially the new list of items excluded from the forex market, the limitations imposed on the use export proceeds and related issues.

“It is also a platform for the CBN to share its perspectives with stakeholders on its policy choices with regard to the management of the foreign exchange market.

“Three Directors of the CBN will be on the panel of discussants. They include Mr. Moses Tule, Director Monetary Policy; Mr. Olakanmi Gbadamosi, Director Trade and Exchange; Mr. E. U. Ukeje, Director Financial Markets,’’ he said.

12 Profs jostle for UI Vice Chancellorship

By Ola Ajayi

I

BADAN—AS the search for a new vice-chancellor for the University of Ibadan continues, about 11 out of the 12 Professors jostling for the plum job are from the institution while one comes from another institution.

The five year tenure of the incumbent Vice-chancellor, Prof.

Isaac Adewole expires in November 2015 and this informed the setting up of a committee made up of all the represnetatives of the unions on campus including the Students’ Union Government about two weeks ago.

The external professor, who applied for the job is Prof. A. Adedeji.

Others including Professors O.O Layiwola (Institute of African Studies), O.O Akinyinka (Pediatrics), F.O Egbokhare (Linguistics and African Languages), Arinola, O. Sanya (Physiotherapy), B.O Fagbemi (Veterinary Microbiology and Parasitology), L. Popoola (Forest Resources Management), A.I Olayinka (Geology), A.I Oluleye (Industrial and Production Engineering), O.D Olaleye (Virology), A.E Falaye (Aquaculture and Fisheries Management) and A.A. Agbaje (Political Science)

all from the institution.

The Chairman of the committee, University of Ibadan Community Forum 2015', Professor Nelson Fashina charged with the responsibility of shopping for the new VC, has hinted that the committee would organise a platform

where all candidates vying for the position will interact with the university community.

Prof. Fasina said, “All candidates therefore earn respect for their personal opinion, vision and mission, such that no one of them can be intimidated or har-

VISIT: From left; Mr. Steve Ayorinde, Vice President (West), Nigeria Guild of Editors, (NGE) presenting a cheque to Mr. Gbemiga Ogunleye, Provost, Nigeria Institute of Journalism, NIJ; Mrs. Funke Egbemode (middle); Social/Publicity Sec, NGE; Mr. Jide Johnson, Deputy Provost, NIJ and Mrs. Maureen Popoola, Acting HOD, General Studies, when a delegation of NGE visited NIJ, Lagos.

Cleric advises Amosun over workers’ pay New Ogoga to be installed soon – FAYOSE

A

DO EKITI— GOVERNOR Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State has said a new Ogoga of Ikere will be installed within the next 14 days.

The governor made the pronouncement after a meeting with the king makers and other leaders from the community at the weekend in the Government House, Ado Ekiti.

According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Idowu Adelusi; ‘’ Fourteen king makers were present at the meeting and they explained to the governor how they had voted to select a new Ogoga, stressing that 10 out of 14 king makers expressed support for Prince Jimi Adu. The governor thereafter stated that after further consultations, procedures and considerations of information at his disposal, a new Ogoga will be named and installed within the next 14 days.

He advised those who may not be satisfied with the decision that will be made to approach the court rather than embarking on crises.

C M Y K

By Daud Olatunji

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B E O K U TA — O G U N State governor, Ibikunle Amosun has been enjoined to pay the workers' salaries and other allowances as at when due.

The Imam, University of Abuja, Prof. Taofiq AbdulAzeez stated this, weekend, during this year's annual Ramadan lecture organised by the state government.

While delivering a lecture on Sustaining the gains of the 2015 general elections: Muslims on calls, the cleric warned the governor against neglecting the people that voted him into power.

Prof. Abdulazeez, who de-

scribed the 2015 general elections as a watershed compared the elections with the 1993 elections which produced late business mogul, Chief MKO Abiola.

He said the emergence of President Muhammadu Buhari as the President of the country has led to the emergence of most of the governors on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC. He further explained that most of the governors would not have won the elections if the APC had not fielded Buhari.

The cleric who made reference to one of the foremost Islamic leaders, Late Umar Khatab, urged governor Amosun to ensure that the sweat of the

Lagos lawmakers back Ambode over delay in forming cabinet

L

AGOS—MEMBERS of the Lagos State House of Assembly have said that the delay by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode to form his cabinet was for the general good of the state.

The lawmakers said the delay had not affected governance and project executions across the state, and that the governor was taking his time to choose the best for the state.

According to lawmakers who spoke in Lagos yesterday, the

assed. All the candidates, will be given equal opportunities. It is a forum that is meant to articulate the conjunction of positive interest in the direction of unity and harmony as necessary condition for further propagation of the academic excellence.”

governor is being very careful in the selection of individuals to manage the affairs of the state.

Mr Adebisi Yuppie (APC-Alimosho 1) said the delay had not in any way affected the governance and ongoing projects handed over to Ambode by his predecessor.

“Have you not seen work going on? I just pray all other states are like Lagos. Our civil servants are highly educated, they are productive and have been exposed to a lot of trainings.''

workers should not get dried before they are paid, saying, that is the surest guarantee of sustainance of the gains of the 2015 General elections.

In his remarks, Amosun pledged to continue in his mis-

sion to rebuild, claiming that the APC had been fulfilling the promises made to the electorate.

He said his first four years were full of people-oriented programmes, claiming that none of his programmes was done without input of the people. He said the deductions and allowances being owed would be paid soon.

Kogi REC assures of credible governorship poll in Oct

By Gbenga Olarinoye

O

SOGBO—THE Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, for Kogi State, Mallam Hussaini Halilu Pai has assured the people of the state that Independence National Electoral Commission, INEC would conduct a peaceful and credible governorship election in the state in October.

Fielding questions from newsmen in Iwo, Osun State during the 20th annual Ramadan lecture, Pai who conducted the last gubernatorial election in Ekiti state stated that the commission would concentrate on the gains of the previous elections in the country.

According to him, the Ekiti election was successful because the people of the state resolved and committed to the election project and the commitment of the commission staff.

His words: “we are able to achieved what we did in Ekiti state because the people of the state resolved to make the election credible. We will definitely improve on the gains of that election in Kogi state to the satisfaction of everybody” .

He sought for the cooperation of the people of the state, particularly the stakeholders, traditional rulers, electorate and the media to make the exercise a huge success.

“My appeal to the people of Kogi state is that they should prepare for a credible election, the electorate should ensure that they have Permanent Voters Cards PVC and they should obey the rules and regulations guarding the conduct of elections by the commission”, he added.

He also appealed to the media to assist the commission by ensuring that all activities of INEC are reported correctly without any bias.

12—Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Bayelsa Assembly approves Dickson’s request to re-negotiate N34.1bn bank loans

By Samuel Oyadongha

Y

E N AG OA — B AY E L S A State House of Assembly has approved the request by the state governor, Mr. Seriake Dickson, to re-negotiate the terms and conditions for the repayment of N34.1 billion loan to some commercial banks in the state.

It also directed the chairmen and other officials of the eight local government areas of the state to appear before it tomorrow over issues of nonpayment of workers’ salaries in the state.

The proposed restructuring plan approved by the Assembly involved financial commitments of N24.3 billion to Sterling Bank and N9.8 billion to Eco Bank Plc. Dickson, in the request letter to the House of Assembly, sought permission to restructure the existing loan as part of strategy to manage the current nationwide financial hardship.

According to the letter, “The state government has not taken any loan on its own for which restructuring is needed and the request is not for an authority to obtain any new loan.

“The resolution is required to enable the state’s financial partners to restructure all

existing liabilities of the state as part of strategy to manage the current nationwide financial hardship so as to enable the government continue to meet basic obligations.”

The members of the state House of Assembly, while approving the request, commended the governor for the decision to restructure the payment terms, “since the renegotiation is a tool allowed in the financial system to

provide reprieve for borrowers.”

Meantime, the Assembly has summoned the chairmen and other officials of the eight councils over the issue of nonpayment of workers’ salaries in the state.

The summons was issued, Friday, after deliberations by members of the House, directing the chairmen and officials to appear tomorrow with details of all revenue received from the Federation

Account and expenditure in the last six months.

The member representing Southern Ijaw constituency 3, Baraladei Igali, while moving a motion under matters of urgent public importance, said that though the appearance of the council chairmen will ascertain the cause for nonpayment of workers' salaries at the council level, the issue of non-payment of salaries has exposed workers to hardship.

PDP STAKEHOLDERS' MEETING: From left: Chief Edwin Uzor, PDP Chairman, Delta State; Sir Tom Amioku, Vice-Chairman, Central PDP; Chief Steve Oru, former Minister of Niger Delta Ministry; Gen. Dominic Oneya (retd.) and Mr. Mmimi Esquire, Political Adviser to Governor Okowa, during PDP's stakeholders' meeting, in Asaba. Photo: Nath Onojake.

Be patient with Buhari, Ilajes urge Nigerians W

ARRI—ILAJES in Delta State, under the aegis of Concerned Ilaje Coastal Communities’ Trust Foundation, in Ugborodo, Warri South-West Local Government Area, have sued for more patience from Nigerians, saying that the President, Muhammadu Buhari/ Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo's administration needs more time to “nip in the bud several anomalies done by some members of the past administration.”

In a statement, chairman of the foundation, Prince Abayomi Ogunfeyimi, after their extraordinary congress in Warri, said that the election of Buhari has rejuvenated the hope of Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora because he “demonstrated exceptional qualities in his previous assignments.”

They appealed to President Buhari to streamline matters of national importance, particularly in the areas of “security, anticorruption and creation of jobs through the establishment and revamping of industries.”

Expressing optimism that the All Progressives Congress, APC leadership, will soon effectively tackle the leadership crisis in the National Assembly, the Ilajes

C M Y K

appealed to the President to pay serious attention to the Escravos Export Processing Zone, EPZ project, in Delta State and the Olokola Project in Ondo State, noting that if if the two projects are fully executed, they are “capable of providing millions of

jobs to this generation and generations yet unborn.”

He commended Buhari for the repair of the nation’s four refineries as well as increase in power generation in less than two months in office and enjoined the Senate President, Bukola

Saraki and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, to broker truce with the APC leadership so as to create the right atmosphere for Buhari and his Vice, Osinbajo, to provide the positive change Nigerians earnestly desire.

Rivers govt orders payment of 3 months pension arrears

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— RIVERS State governor, Mr Nyesom Wike, has ordered the state Accountant General to immediately commence payment of three months pension arrears owed pensioners in the state by the past administration.

The governor said it was unfortunate that pensioners could be owed arrears by the past government.

He assured that his administration will be regular in the payment of allowances and entitlement due to pensioners.

It will be recalled that pensioners in the state had embarked on strike in the last week of the former

administration over arrears

owed them.

Community lauds Okowa on commissioners' appointments

T

HE people of Abigborodo in Warri North Local Government Area, Delta State, have commended Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the appointment of their children, Vincent Uduaghan and Shola Williams, as commissioners in his cabinet.

Monday Agbeyi, Chairman of Abigborodo community, at the swearing- in of the two commissioners in Asaba, commended Okowa for appointing their notable son and daughter as commissioners.

He added that the duo have the capacity to work with Governor Okowa to fulfil his electioneering promise of prosperity for all.

Agbeyi noted that the present relationship between former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan and the incumbent Okowa was cordial, as he called on Deltans to cooperate

with the new administration for quick service delivery in the interest of all.

I'll partner NLC for increased productivity —Okowa

By Festus Ahon

A

S A B A — GOVERNOR Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, has expressed his administration's resolve to engage in regular interface with the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, for increased productivity of the state's workforce.

Okowa, in Asaba, when he played host to the state executive council of the NLC, called for a more robust partnership between labour and government so as to promote industrial harmony.

He said that his administration will carry the state's workforce along, with a view to ensuring successful implementation of its policies and programmes.

The governor assured that he was determined to provide a lasting solution to the problem confronting the Contributory Pension Scheme as part of efforts aimed at giving retired workers a sense of belonging.

Responding to the plea by the labour leaders for the recall of workers affected by the recent suspension of recruitment into the state's civil service, Okowa said it was in the best interest of the state, lamenting that the economic situation of the state does not call for decisions based on sentiments.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015—13

ASUU protests kidnap of colleague in Edo

By Gabriel Enogholase

B

ENIN—MEMBERS of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, Ambrose Alli University, AAU, Ekpoma, Chapter, weekend, took to the streets of Ekpoma town to protest the kidnap of their colleague, Dr. Paul Erie, an associate professor.

Erie, of the Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Faculty of Agriculture, was kidnapped at his residence in Igbanke, Orhiowmon Local Government Area, Edo State, on June 16.

The ASUU members, who carried placards with different inscriptions chanting solidarity songs, took their peaceful protest to Ekpoma Police station, palace of the monarch of Ekpoma, the popular market square in the town, to register their grievance.

Chairman of ASUU, AAU chapter, Prof. Fred Esumeh, explained that the protest was to bring to the public domain once more, the unending spate of kidnappings of its members or spouses of members in Ekpoma and environs.

He recalled that more than eight AAU-ASUU members have been kidnapped in the

past, calling on security agencies and the governor of Edo State, the chief security officer, to come to their rescue.

“Teaching and learning cannot take place in an

environment where fear reigns supreme and insecurity is the order of the day.

“We believe that this ugly trend has become pervasive and almost a normal thing

because little or nothing has been done to apprehend the hoodlums as they seem to be having a field day in their nefarious business,” he lamented.

BURIAL: From left: Chairman, Arik Air, Sir. Arumemi Johnson, his wife Dame Mary Arumemi-Ikhide and Governor Adams Oshiomole of Edo State, during the final burial of late Madam Margret Odion Otoide, at St. Theresa's Catholic Church, Uromi, Edo State, weekend.

PDP'll hold APC govt accountable to Nigerians —Senator

By Gabriel Enogholase

B

ENIN—THE major opposition party in the National Assembly, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has pledged to hold the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, government in the country accountable to the people and ensure that its campaign promises were fulfilled and democratic dividends delivered.

Spokesman for elected members of the PDP representing Edo Central senatorial district in the National Assembly, Senator Clifford Ordia, who made the pledge at a thanksgiving service, weekend, in Irrua, said that being an opposition in government does not mean opposing all government policies and programmes.

Other elected PDP members in the state are Chief Joe Edionwele, representing Esan West/Esan Central/Igueben and Deacon Sergius Ogun (Esan North-East and Esan South- East), in the House of Representatives.

According to Senator Ordia, “As a political party, we should be grateful to God for the privilege He gave us to govern this great country for 16 years.

That is enough to be thankful for. Therefore, we must not let God down by engaging in hatred and blame trading. We C M Y K

must come together and rebuild the party in order to bounce back to power in 2019.

It is achievable.

“The events of a few weeks ago leading to the emergence of the leadership of the National Assembly is an

indication that God is still with us. We must keep hope alive, unite and move to the promised land as one family."

Set up IDP camp in Rivers, LG boss, ONELGA Project urge FG

By Davies Iheamnachor

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HAIRMAN of Ogba/ Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, Mr. Austine Ahiamadu and ONELGA Generation Next Project have called on the Federal Government, the National Assembly and National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, to provide relief materials and create an Internally Displaced People’s camp, IDP, for the relocation of the residents of Ebocha in the council.

This, according to them, is due to the environmental pollution in some communities of Egbema in the council after the twin explosions at two facilities owned by Agip Oil Company at Ebocha Oil Centre in Ob-Ob Land Area of Agip.

The council boss who spoke in a separate interview, expressed displeasure over an alleged neglect by Agip oil company of its host communities. He said that the oil multinational had failed the people of the council in its social

responsibilities as a company.

He called on MENA, the Federal Government and the National Assembly to intervene in the issue of the displaced persons in the area by providing relief materials for the people and create an IDP camp for them as all their means of survival had been damaged.

He said that the condition of the people of the area was

pathetic as a thick haze from the chemicals which emitted into the air from the explosions had taken over the communities of Egbema.

Similarly, the group has given a 21-day ultimatum beginning today, threatening to shut down the company's operations if positive steps were not taken to save the situation.

I've not come to destroy APC the 2016 governorship election —Imasuagbon

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—FORMER governorship aspirant of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Edo State, Mr Kenneth Imasuagbon, who defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC, weekend, has said that he had not come to destroy the APC but to help in building the party to make it stronger, ahead of future elections.

He said that with the developmental strides of Governor Adams Oshiomhole,

in the state will be a walk over for the APC, particularly in Esanland, home of the former Chairman, Board of Trustees of the PDP, Chief Tony Anenih.

Imasuagbon who is popularly known as ‘Rice Man’ due to his annual rice sharing ritual to the less privileged in the state, spoke when he was received into the APC by 18 members of the state House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Mr Victor Edoror and the leader of the party in the area, Mr Patrick Eboigbe at Ubiaja, Esan South East Local Government Area of the state.

Alimikhena, an urbane politician— Ekweremadu, Ndoma-Egba

D

EPUTY President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu has described the Deputy Majority Whip of the Senate, Senator Francis Alimikhena, as a consummate politician, a team player and broad minded urbane politician, whose electoral victory was due to his wide acceptance and reputation.

In a congratulatory message, Senator Ekweremadu, said: “I count it an honour to work with you and other principal officers in piloting the affairs of the Senate. With your rich antecedents, there is no doubt that you are well positioned to discharge the duties of your office effectively to drive the quest for good governance.”

In a separate message, Senate Victor NdomaEgba described Alimikhena as a leader with sterling leadership skill, with devotion to responsibilities.

It’s turn of Edo Central to produce next gov —Inegbeniki

T

HE All Progressives Congress, APC, senatorial candidate for Edo Central in the March 28, National Assembly election, Chief Francis Inegbeniki, has said that it is the turn of Edo Central to produce the next governor of Edo State.

Inegbeniki, yesterday, explained that of the three senatorial district in Edo, it was only Edo Central that has not produced a governor for the state, while Edo South had produced governor for eight years plus, and Edo North presently occupying and completing its turn of eighth years.

He urged the people of Edo State to support the Esan people, adding that a high powered delegation had been put in place to liaise with leaders of Edo South and Edo North to seek their support.

14 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Gbajabiamila group rebuffs Tambuwal's peace initiative, accuses him of bias .'I've not been offered chairmanship of Constitution Review C'ttee'

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru & Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

ANNIVERSARY: From left, Speaker House of Reps, Hon. Yakubu Dogara; Emir of Kano, HRH Muhammed Sanusi, and Hon. Abike Dabiri, at the 239 Independent anniversary of United States of America, in Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan

ITIKAF: Benefits of the last ten days

W

E ARE moving to the last ten days of Ramadan. It is not too late to do what you have not been doing very well. The remaining days can still earn you fantastic rewards, you can still make up for the lost twenty days in ibadah. Seek for forgiveness of sins, supplicate to Allah on all your desires, commit yourself to doing ibadah regularly day and night like you have never done before.

Given the state of most Muslims today, with the pressure of work, businesses, and ways of making ends meet for a jolly Ramadan, those who really know the benefits inherent in this period damn all the encumbrances of worldly affairs and take a short break off work, businesses for Allah. It is loaded with rewards so much that you can’t imagine.

They embark on Itikaf (seclusion) for the remaining period to solidify their relationship with Allah.

This period should be spent in prayer, seeking His mercy and asking for forgiveness, studying the Quran and reflecting in your deeds.

One of the greatest traditions of Islam, the spark of which has become a popular issue at this period of Ramadan, is Itikaf. This is a tradition which has been in Islam from the early days of the revelation and is also something known and recognised as the practice of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) as ordained by Allah (SWT).

Itikaf means to stay in the Mosque with the intention of abiding in it for the sake of Allah (SWT). The purpose of such stay in the Mosque is ibadah and to get closer to Allah. During Itikaf, nothing is required other than observing nawafil, reading, studying the Holy Quran and doing Zikr which remembrance of Allah. For those who are not able to embark on seclusion, they should use the period very well in getting closer to Allah, obey the commandments of Allah (SWT), refrain from the things which He has prohibited and to be in His service.

This night opens its gates of treasures; the angels with the permission of Allah descend with peace, more importantly, the blessing will dwell with us till Fajr.

The Prophet (s.a.w) said: “The person who offered prayers to Allah in the Night of Majesty with faith and with hope of reward from Allah, all his past sins have been forgiven” (Bukhari).

This holiest and most blessed night is likely to occur on one of the odd nights on the last 10 days of Ramadan and the reward of worship on this night is better than the worship of a thousand months of worship, equivalent to a person’s lifetime put together.

Although the odd nights have been given as clue for locating the Night of Majesty, no one night has been fixed so that the yearning to find it may increase and people may spend more nights in worshiping Allah. This is the reason for Itikaf (seclusion) during the last 10 days of Ramadan so that we can locate the night and reap the benefits.

“Allahumma innaka afuwwun tuhib-bul af-wa, fa-afu anni” (O Allah, You are the One who grants pardon for sins, so forgive me.)

BUJA—THERE were indications yesterday that the Governor Aminu Tambuwal led initiative to resolve the crisis in the All Progressives Congress, APC caucus in the House of Representatives may have failed.

IGP summoned Ekweremadu for arrest —PDP .We've nothing to do with this —APC .No plan to arrest Ekweremadu —Police

By Henry Umoru

A

BUJA—NATIONAL leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, yesterday, raised alarm that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Mr. Solomon Arase has summoned the Deputy President of the Senate Ike Ekweremadu to appear before him today at the Force Headquarters with a view to arrest him over phantom charges.

According to PDP, the summon followed a petition by some All Progressives Congress, APC, senators, who were opposed to the emergence of Senators Bukila Saraki and Ike Ekweremadu, accusing the Deputy Senate President of altering the Senate Rules on the process of election of the presiding officers The APC has. however, said it has nothing to do with the reported invitation of Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, by the police “over which the PDP has released an outlandish statement containing all sorts of imaginary claims.”

Addressing journalists yesterday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh alleged that the IGP, who was acting on instruction, had invited Senator Ekweremadu with a view to arresting and detaining him, thereby creating a vacuum in the Senate and paving way for the imposition of an APC Senator to take over his position.

Metuh who noted that the letter inviting Ekweremadu to his office, dated July 1, 2015 was written and signed by the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of criminal investigation at the Force Headquarters, stressed that when the Deputy Senate President got there, he would be detained and put under pressure.

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said it has nothing to do with the reported invitation of Deputy Senate President Ike

Ekweremadu, by the police over which the PDP has released an outlandish statement containing all sorts of imaginary claims.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said it neither wrote a petition to the police nor is it aware that any petition was written against the Deputy Senate President. ‘’However, if, as the PDP claims, the petition concerns alleged altering of the Senate’s Standing Rules on the process of electing Presiding Officers, that is a clear case of forgery which the police have a duty to investigate. Questioning the right of the police to carry out their duties in this regard amounts to intimidating the security agency. ‘’Forgery is a crime that is being regularly investigated by the police, and it beggars belief that such investigation will now be interpreted to mean that Nigeria is descending into dictatorship or that democracy and the enjoyment of personal freedoms are now endangered. These claims by the scaremongering PDP are far fetched and preposterous,’’ it said.

However, the police high command last night denied alleged plans to arrest Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu. Force Assistant Spokesman CSP Abayomi Shogunle said that the issue of arrest of a Senator does not arise as the Police observes the norms of democratic principles.

According to Shogunle, “a Senator wrote a petition to the IGP that the rules of the house were changed so as to pave the way for the election of Ekweremdu.

Based on the petition the IGP directed the DIG Force CID to investigate the matter”.

Shogunle disclosed that after the preliminary investigations the Force CID wrote to the Clerk of the National Assembly to arrange the time and place for police investigators to meet with some senators for interrogations but that the Clerk was yet to respond.”

It was gathered that the discussions with the Femi Gbajabiamila led group failed to make progress. There were also speculations yesterday that Gbajabiamila who failed in his bid to emerge as speaker despite being sponsored by the party spurned an offer from Speaker Yakubu Dogara to become chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review.

Gbajabiamila, however, denied being offered the position as he told Vanguard yesterday that he would continue to hold on to the party’s position on the issues.

Following his loss in the contest for speaker, the party had proposed him to Speaker Dogara as the House Leader, a position the latter has firmly resisted upon claims that it would violate the federal character principle.

At a peace meeting in the Sokoto State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, it was gathered that the Gbajabiamila camp insisted that the party’s directive on principal officers’ positions must prevail.

The party had proposed Gbajabiamila as House leader and Mohammed Moguno as Deputy House Leader.

A source close to Gabajabiamila told Vanguard that the group said it was not going to accept anything other than the party’s directive.

“Gabajabiamila led about 15 Reps to the meeting. The outcome was that the party’s directive on the principal officers positions must stand”, the source said.

He added that Gbajabiamila also expressed disappointment in Tambuwal’s role in the crisis given what they claimed as his position as the immediate past Speaker of the House.

It was gathered that Tambuwal in response told Gabjaabiamila that he would take the message to Dogara’s camps.

“Tambuwal told them he would take back the outcome to Dogara’s group”, the source added.

The accusation against Governor Tambuwal flows from claims that he actively supported the Dogara campaign during the leadership contest.

Also yesterday, Gbajabiamila debunked speculations that he had been offered the chairmanship of the Constitution Review Committee.

“I was never offered any such thing.”

But when asked whether in the interest of peace if he would accept any such offer from the Speaker, he replied, “I represent a party and I represent a caucus of members. Left to me, I don’t even have to serve in any capacity. I am content to be a floor member. It takes nothing away from me.”

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015—15

ECCIMA tasks Buhari on sustenance of improved power supply

By Francis Igata

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NUGU—ENUGU State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture,

ECCIMA, yesterday urged President Muhammadu Buhari to sustain the improved power supply witnessed in Enugu in the last one month.

This came as power supply in Enugu and other adjourning

states of the South East geopolitical zone by Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, improved tremendously in the last one month.

Speaking to Vanguard over the cheering improvement, ECCIMA

Abia govt to upgrade Ariaria Int'l Market

By Ugochukwu Alaribe

A

BA—ABIA State government has said it would take steps to upgrade Ariaria Market and reform it to its original master plan.

A statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr.Godwin Adindu, stated that a new directive towards government’s plan of action would soon be made public.

According to him, upgrading Ariaria market is part of the government’s large-scale plan of a comprehensive infrastructural renewal of the commercial city of Aba which has begun with massive road construction and the de-silting of gutters and drainage channels.

He disclosed that the original

master plan of the market included spaces for banks, fire service, parking lot, police post and other support services, stressing that any structures outside the master plan would be demolished.

He disclosed that the state government had dissolved the Committee on Review and

Revalidation of Ariaria International Market, led by Mr. Chigozie Osuala.

According to him, government has also directed the committee to hand over documents, assets and property of government and the market in its care to the permanent secretary, Ministry of Environment.

Director-General, Mr.Emeka Okereke, urged the President to sustain the power revolution stance adopted by former President Goodluck Jonathan to ensure steady power supply for the growth of Small Medium Enterprises,SMEs. Okereke said: “There has been a tremendous boost in power supply in Enugu in the last one month. ‘’This is a welcome development. It means that trade, commerce and other small businesses will begin to roar back to life.

“This should not be a flash in the pan. Efforts should be geared towards its sustenance. I already know that investors have taken cognisance of the prevailing situation to take steps towards cashing in on the development."

Ugwuanyi, Ekweremadu, senators, others forge consensus to push Enugu forward

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

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NUGU STATE political leaders have pledged to unite around the developmental initiatives of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi towards ensuring that

the state was not negatively affected by the financial distresses arising from the depression in revenues accruing to the state.

The political leaders, including the governor, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, the Deputy President of the Senate, the

deputy governor, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, Senators Gilbert Nnaji and Chukwuka Utazi, gave the pledge durinf an interactive session with newsmen in Enugu.

The occasion was also attended by the state chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Ikeji Asogwa, Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Gabriel Ajah, chairman of the state chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, Prince Cornelius Nnaji, among others.

Speaking on the occasion, Governor Ugwuanyi noted that as part of his plans to navigate the challenge of dwindling income from the federation account, he had decided to constitute an Economic Advisory Board with r e p u t a b l e stakeholders, including nonindigenes, as members.

“A friend of mine told me that this is not the best time to be governor, but I told him, do you believe in the miracle of five loaves and two fishes? ‘’It is true. It happened, then, it will happen now. I believe in God and I also know that we have the instruments with which God will use to assist us. We want you to know that we need your support,” he told newsmen.

FG, OPS told to facilitate national policy to boost trade, industry

By Chimaobi Nwaiwu

N

NEWI—OBI of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, has called on the federal government and Organized Private Sector, OPS, to facilitate the establishment of a National Policy on Technical Regulation to further boost trade and industries.

Igwe Nanaemeka made the call when a delegation of United Nations Industrial Development Organization, UNIDO, working group on the “Green Paper ” for the National Policy on Technical Regulations paid him a courtesy call in Onitsha last weekend.

The UNIDO delegation was in Onitsha for the South-East Consultative Forum towards strengthening of institutional dialogue on the National Quality Infrastructure for the “Green Paper” for the National Policy on Technical Regulations.

Igwe Achebe said: “Nigerians were in dire need of the policy in order to reduce wastages and for manufactures and producers both in the extractive and secondary industries to get value for their investment through global trade.

“The policy, when implemented, would give Nigerians greater access to the international market since it will help people know the international standard for each product and service.

“This no doubt would check limitation to international trade and make the country to have its fair share in the global market, which is dominated by countries with standardized technical regulations.”

The monarch assured the group that Onitsha traders and entire OPS within the South-East would give them the needed support and input, and thanked UNIDO for facilitating the project as well as developing the production and trade capacity of the country.

The Leader, National Expert on Technical Regulations of the NQI Project, Prof. Abimbola Uzomah, said in her speech that they were in the South-East to sensitize the people on the “Green Paper” for the National Policy on Technical Regulations.

16—Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Ikpeazu warns council chairmen on ghost workers

NASS CRISIS: Northern monarchs

support Ekweremadu’s election as DSP

By Anayo Okoli

By Anayo Okoli

U

MUAHIA—ABIA State governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has warned local government transition committee that his administration had zero tolerance for ghost workers.

Ikpeazu also warned that he would confront decisively individuals who constituted a cog in the wheel of progress at the local government level.

The governor, who spoke when the 17 transition committee chairmen visited him at Government House, Umuahia, pledged to do everything to cut down frivolous expenses in the state and block revenue leakages.

Addressing the chairmen who came under the umbrella of All Local Government Conference of Nigeria (ALGON), said it was time Abia people reexamined themselves and did away with things that would sabotage the state.

Ikpeazu said he was convinced that the issue of ghost workers would not thrive without the active support of those in the system.

CLEEN urges FG to sign VPs on security, human rights

By Bartholomew Madukwe

C

L E E N FOUNDATION, formerly known as Centre for Law Enforcement Education, has called on the federal government to sign Voluntary Principles, Vps, on security and human rights so as to better the extractive sector in the country.

Speaking at a One-Day Round Table discussion on Cost of Corruption in Nigeria, CLEEN’s Programme Manager in Lagos, Nnenga Gondi, pointed out that workshops were organized in two oil bearing communities in Abia and Imo to educate community members on VPs and how to use it to as a dialogue tool to engage other stakeholders in the extractive sector.

“In the last 15 years, CLEEN has worked closely with the civil society and public agencies particular within the security and justice sector in Nigeria to promote reforms. In 2013, we commenced the implementation of a project called Access Nigeria,” he added.

U

MUAHIA—NORTHERN monarchs resident in South East and South South geopolitical zones have expressed their support for the election of

Dr. Ike Ekwremadu as the Deputy President of the Senate, DSP, condemning calls by the All Progressives Congress, APC, for his resignation.

The Northern monarchs, under the aegis of Council of Northern Monarchs, described the call for

Ekweremadu’s resignation as “unnecessary and divisive”.

According to the Chairman of Northern Traditional Rulers Council, South East-South South, Sarki Yaro Danladi, Ekweremadu should be allowed to hold on to his position since he remained the

FORUM: Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State (2nd left), Governor of Enugu State, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (left); Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State (2nd right), and Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. Eric Igwe, during the meeting of South East Governors' Forum, at Government House, Owerri, yesterday.

....Ohanaeze vows too

By Austin Ogwuda

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NUGU—CHAIRMAN, Enugu State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Eric Ebe yesterday declared that the group was strongly behind Senator Ike Ikweremadu Deputy Senate President in the 8th Senate.

It also vowed to fight to join the fray to fight any opposition against his emergence as deputy senate president.

The Ohanaeze chieftain stated this yesterday shortly after the group conferred on Ekweremadu the title of ‘Onunekwuru Ndigbo’, meaning the mouthpiece of Ndigbo.

Ebe said: “Your emergence in the midst of glaring opposition at this critical time means that your services are mostly needed and has no doubt rekindled hope in our members in view of your exposure, hard work, experience, track records in public service through your infrastructure development and people

oriented programmes since you were elected to the Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2013.

“The purpose of this visit is not

only to celebrate you on your enviable position, but also to affirm our stand that Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Enugu State, is strongly behind you spiritually and

A

WKA—DESPITE claims by some councillors in Orumba South local government area of Anambra State that they have suspended the chairman, Mr. John Onyeakpa, the embattled chairman insisted weekend that the councillors had no constitutional powers to suspend him from office.

The councillors had clamped

physically.

“Any opposition against you is opposition against Ndigbo and Ohanaeze will stand by you through thick and thin.

Boko Haram prisoners, Obiano urges citizens to be calm

By Enyim Enyim

O

N I T S H A — GOVERNOR Willie Obiano of Anambra State weekend urged the citizenry to be calm over the relocation of Boko Haram prisoners to Ekwulobia prisons in Aguata Local Government Area, saying he had intensified efforts to resolve the matter.

Obiano, who spoke through his Senior Special Adviser on Media, Mr. James Eze, told journalists that Obiano was talking with The Presidency and the authorities to have a

peaceful resolution of the issue.

“Governor Willie Obiano’s commitment to this extremely sensitive issue remains the same. ‘’He is aware of the strong feelings provoked by Boko Haram among Ndi Anambra and the people of the South

down an indefinite suspension on Onyeakpa over allegations of gross misconduct and poor performance.

They had also last Friday erved him impeachment notice.

But addressing reporters in his office at Umunze, Onyeakpa dismissed the councillors’ claim as baseless, null and void and of no effect, saying the councillors were only trying to tarnish his image and undermine his rising political profile.

East. Therefore, he shall never use this subject of pain and anguish to play politics.“Obiano, therefore, appeals to Ndi Anambra to go about their normal businesses without fear of molestation, while he continues to engage relevant authorities on the matter.

Rep urges support for Okowa

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EMBER REPRESENTING Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Onyemaechi Mrakpor has stressed the need for Deltans to support the government of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

Mrakpor, who made the call in

You can’t suspend me, council chairman tells councillors

By Vincent Ujumadu

only eye of Ndigbo in the entire National Assembly.

“Ekweremadu is the only lawmaker from the South East occupying principal position in the National Assembly.

Removing him does not make sense as that will make his people to lose confidence in the government in power,” the council said.

According to them, removing Ekweremadu from his present position will amount to sidelining the entire South East zone from the political equation in the National Assembly. According to the monarchs, this is capable of igniting ethnic tension in Nigeria.

Alhaji Danladi, who is also the Sarki Hausa of Abia State, said Nigerians were tired of crisis and appealed to the political class not to overheat the already tensed political atmosphere in the country.

He appealed to the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC, to stop any plot to unseat the Ekweremadu as Deputy Senate President, noting that his removal would generate ill-feelings among the Igbo who were one of Nigeria’s tripods, and further polarize the country along tribal lines.

He said: “There is no provision in the state local government laws 1999 as amended by the Anambra House of Assembly Laws 2012, or the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, for the suspension of local government chairman.

“Rather, the laws specify on the procedure for the impeachment of a chairman or his deputy.

Therefore, I remain the chairman of Orumba South Local Government Area."

Asaba at a reception organized in honour one of the newly sworn-in commissioners, Mr. Austin Chikezie, stressed the need for all to be humble, committed and patient in all they did, described the appointment of Mr. Chikezie, her former campaign director as Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources as a result of his hard work, obedience and commitment.

She used the occasion to decry decried the poor state of industries in the country and poor healthcare delivery, saying the decline in industries has led to growing unemployment which had beset the nation in recent times, while urging the Federal Government to address the deteriorating situation.

Speaking, Chikezie commended Governor Okowa for the appointment, while also commending Hon. Mrakpor for her numerous assistance over the years and prayed God to continue to bless both the governor and the lawamker.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 17

18 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 SQUABBLES, even fisticuffs, are considered “normal” in legislatures all over the democratic world. Here in Nigeria, issues of power and money sharing are constant factors behind every open confrontation among our lawmakers.

The eighth National Assembly has been bedeviled from day one with crises. Clashes between rival factions of the majority All Progressives Congress (APC) in the National Assembly have made it difficult for the federal lawmakers to settle down to serious business. The Party had fielded Senators Ahmed Lawan and George Akume as its preferred candidates for President of the Senate and Deputy President respectively.

For the House of Reps, it preferred Hon Femi Gbajabiamila and Hon Tahir Monguno.

The party insisted that having its anointed candidates occupy the principal offices of the legislature would enhance party discipline and enable the APC to deliver on its campaign promises to Nigerians.

However, members of the Party interested in the posts, especially Senator Bukola Saraki (Senate President) and Hon Yakubu Dogara (Speaker of the House) argued that

Ending The National Assembly Crisis the constitution prescribes that officers of the legislature must be elected by the members in the legislative chamber. During the elections that took place on June 9 th , Saraki was elected Senate President while a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ike Ekweremadu became the Deputy. The House of Reps elected Dogara as Speaker, with Hon Yusuf Lasun emerging as Deputy Speaker.

The fracas in the House on June 25 th forced Speaker Dogara to adjourn sitting till July 21 st when the House could not elect its Majority Leader/Deputy and Majority Whip/Deputy, a feat the Senate was able to achieve.

The crisis in the National Assembly has wreaked havoc, setting the APC leadership in disarray and making it impossible for the federal legislature to effectively start work.

The period of adjournment must, therefore be seen by the leadership of the Party as an opportunity to settle the differences of its members.

Even though President Muhammadu Buhari has appeared neutral in this tussle, he must now wade into the crisis, bearing in mind the need to carry every stakeholder in the party along.

We are strongly in support of an independent legislative arm, which must also be prepared to cooperate with the executive for smooth governance. Undue external influence destabilises the legislature and predisposes it to manipulation and corruption.

The task of fulfilling the APC’s electoral promises is enormous. The terror attacks in the North and high crimes have ballooned since the new government took over. The economy is also waiting to be tackled. The only way forward is for the party to present a common front and encourage the citizenry to support its efforts.

OPINION APC in early dance of self destruction

By Godwin Etakibuebu

T

HE slogan of CHANGE was the magical tonic the All Progressive Congress [APC] brought into the arena of the Nigerian political dance floor immediately the Independent National Electoral Commission [INEC] qualified the association as a political party, albeit a mega one for that matter.

And it worked in uniting the people for some reasons.

After 16 years of PDP [People Democratic Party] in the saddle of running affairs of Nigeria and Nigerians, people became fedup with the status quo ante in what they were going through and they saw the language of ‘change‘ as a most welcomed alternative. The Nigerian people equally believed that the name of General Muhammadu Buhari; which has been an acorn in the market place of integrity, would actually produce the change from bad to good. In addition, the people saw the inability of Goodluck Jonathan [then president] to deal with perceived and real thieves in Nigeria as another major reason of embracing the introduced slogan of APC - CHANGE. There were more reasons why the slogan [change] became a uniting factor for a country in search of societal sanity of course.

At the end, change came when Nigerians went to the poll during the April general th election. By May 29 2015, the change the C M Y K

people demanded for was inaugurated when Muhammadu Buhari became the President.

The “change” the people wanted desperately was thus anchored. But here we are, a few days of establishing the most desired “change”, the Nigerian people are back on the ‘road’ with the question of “where is the change?”

The real change expected to affect the lives of the people positively seems to be elusive because what we see, at least for now, is a situation where the “vehicle of the change” itself; the APC, is undergoing a serious metamorphosis. Yes, the APC is dancing seriously on the floor of confusion and the music it is dancing to, can be likened to that serious sickness doctors call ‘auto-immune deficiency’.

Auto-immune deficiency is defined by medical journals as “a state when one organ of the body rises in battle against another organ, seeing each other as enemy, until one

The first thing to be done for the alliance or formation to sail successfully and enduringly, was to surrender parts or some parts of individual residue powers

destroys the other before picking on another organ for the same destructive battle”. Or in a layman’s language of the dictionary; “autoimmune [of disease] caused by antibodies or lymphocytes produced by the body to counteract substances naturally present in it”. Auto-immune deficiency is a dreaded disease that causes failure of most body organs like kidneys and other essential major parts of the body that ought to sustain life in the first place. It results into vitiligo that deforms the body on the surface and the greatest fear about this disease in the medical world is the fact that there is no cure for it, at least for now. The medicals would explain to you in confidence that cancer is even understood better in their world than autoimmune deficiency.

This is the exact “sickness” APC is suffering from now and unfortunately; Nigerians are expecting good change that is capable of making life comfortable from this same APC with this deadly and incurable disease. Let us identify some of the “organic self-destruct” in the journey of APC so far, that will convince us that the party cannot bring any good thing to the people in their expected “Jerusalem”. At its first outing at the National Assembly, it was a show of selfinflicted mortal injuries that may never heal within these first four years as the “warring Generals” that went to that ‘battle’ were all members of the APC with the factual result that the victim, the vanquished and the loser of that battle is APC. The devastation of that blow brought a wider gulf among the controlling personae dramatis of this vessel of ‘change’ and further polarised the “boundaries cum definition of

territorial integrity control” of the individual camps of the ‘mafioso’ that brought this concoction called APC together in the first place. This is the truth that we must accept because the earlier we learn to live with this reality the better for our understanding of the catastrophic point of anchorage this vessel of ‘change’ is heading. For now the centre cannot hold anymore in the words of our own most respected Chinua Achebe of blessed memory. What we have in present day APC is a clash of titans from different camps, battling for the control of the party with eyes on 2019 and beyond. And the winner of this fierce battle [there shall be more losers than winners of course] can only emerge after doing major destruction to “other major components” of the body of APC, just like auto-immune deficiency described earlier. If you are still in doubt of this submission then let us take a critical look once again at the dynamics at play.

Those who formed this mega political party [APC] came from different backgrounds and camps. They [the persons involved] were all victims of individualism, in this case as small political parties hence the wisdom of their decision to come together so that they can enjoy the advantages of collectivism. By so doing, the first thing to be done for the alliance or formation to sail successfully and enduringly, was to surrender parts or some parts of individual residue powers as such must be necessarily be given to the emerging centre of unity- in this case APC.

* Mr. Etakibuebu, a commentator on national issues, wrote from Lagos.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015—19

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LL over the democratic world, the term: “change” is a pet mantra employed by opposition parties.

“Continuity” is the ruling party’s counter to this battle cry. After eight years of George Bush (II) and the Republicans in America, Barack Obama of the Democratic Party not only campaigned for “change”, he styled his own: “the change we need”. In other words, it was not just a desire for the warmongering prorich GOP to be rested by the electorate, it was time to introduce Obama’s libertine new deals, look more inward and accommodate the interests of the New Americans and the middle class and minorities.

When the All Progressives Congress (APC) was campaigning for “change”, not many people bothered to pin them down, especially their presidential candidate, to explain what “change” meant. Buhari only told us that he would fight corruption, provide security and diversify the economy. Jonathan fought corruption with technology to get rid of ghost workers, yet there were widespread allegations of corruption against his government. He battled Boko Haram, a job he almost completed before handing over, yet thousands of Nigerians had lost their lives, and hundreds of thousands more were dislodged from their communities. He diversified the economy, revived agriculture and infrastructure and made Nigeria the largest economy in Africa and its most favoured investment destination; yet majority of the citizens did not feel the impact of these efforts. So, what manner of change would Buhari create to make a difference?

Right now we have witnessed a major change, and we have been promised more changes. But are they “the change we need”? The change we have seen is that the APC has booted out the regime of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP’s) Goodluck Jonathan. That was earth-shaking, as no opposition party has ever defeated a sitting president seeking re-election in Nigeria and the continent as a whole. But is that the change we need? Regime change is only a means to an end, not an end in itself. You can change a regime and later bite your finger in regret.

The second change, which the Buhari Presidency appears to be angling for, is to reduce the number of ministries, departments and agencies of the federal government to save cost. Unless he will also follow up by retrenching the thousands of workers in those MDA’s (which will create bigger problems), he will not be able to reduce the cost of governance. It will only lead to crowded

Buhari and ‘the change we need’? desks populated by redundant government salary drawers; a journey to nowhere.

Part of the Buhari change, we hear, includes going after corrupt officials of the Jonathan era to retrieve stolen funds. We have seen that before, even under Buhari.

He did the same in 1984/85. He also sent hundreds of politicians to long term jail terms. But that did not buoy up government coffers by much. It did not stop the shortage of essential commodities in shops. That draconian approach was possible only because he ruled with decrees. It is not possible today. The courts, the legislature and fellow political stakeholders will frustrate the effort. Look at what happened to efforts to arrest Senator Buruji Kashamu. Just a few days ago, former Minister Femi Fani-Kayode, was discharged and acquitted of money laundering charges levelled against him by

If Buhari refuses to embrace “the change we need” he will fail woefully after his Superman/Spiderman stunts as he did in 1984/85. The corruption, insecurity and economic rubble will be multiplied by the time he leaves office in four years

the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The only governor that is in jail for corruption today is Mr. James Ibori of Delta, and that is because he made the mistake of fleeing abroad. The rest are in the Senate or at their palatial homes enjoying their loots.

I pity those who see Buhari as a Superman and Spiderman rolled into one.

Let us even assume that Buhari is able to retrieve billion of dollars from the looters. Is it not the same governors and politicians that will spend and eventually re-loot the money? Where is “Abacha loot” brought back under Obasanjo’s regime?

Any disclosure of how it was spent? Did it stop politicians from looting? Did it stop even APC governors from deeping their hands into their state treasuries to bankroll Buhari’s campaign, thus plunging them into penury and salary arrears? We wait to see how Superman/ Spiderman Buhari will deal with that issue, as these chaps are now fervently crowding around him to be rewarded with juicy federal posts.

What I am saying is that if “change” means removing Jonathan from power, cutting the number of MDAs, getting looters to return stolen funds and possibly jailing them, it will not lead to the change we need. It is a cosmetic change because it does not address the root causes of corruption, poverty, economic wretchedness in the midst of plenty, mass unemployment and insecurity. If Buhari refuses to embrace “the change we need” he will fail woefully after his Superman/ Spiderman stunts as he did in 1984/85.

The corruption, insecurity and economic rubble will be multiplied by the time he leaves office in four years. The North will simply discard him and float another platform to enable them get another eight years, and the journey to nowhere will

continue.

The “change we need” is not a “materialisation of my inventive genius” as Bambulu grandiloquently claimed in John Ene Henshaw’s hilarious play: This is Our Chance. It is not, as the worn cliché puts it, “rocket science”. It is an old idea which frightens the Nigerian ruling class.

It is an inalienable truth which the class and region that Buhari belongs to, avoid like the plague because it will force our leaders to think and work. It will take away their parasitic, unearned and enslaving privileges and their right to use nepotism to populate the federal government with people of questionable competence from their part of the country as Buhari is already doing after only a few appointments.

That change we need is constitutional restructuring and establishment of “true federalism”.

It involves the decentralisation of the powers of the federal government. The only way to cut down the size of the MDAs without mass retrenchment of workers is to transfer most of the powers of the federal government to the states or more preferably, the geopolitical zones. The Federal Government will exist to defend the nation and guarantee the citizenship rights of its people, while maintaining common services and taking charge of our international relations. The economy should largely be managed by the states (or more preferably, the geopolitical zones) and the private sector, which will pay taxes and royalties to the federal government to look after all of us.

I wonder why Ahmed Tinubu and his political platform went into a merger with Buhari and his acolytes without agreeing on this “true federalism” principle, which is an enduring political philosophy of the Awoist Yoruba, and for which the Igbo fought and lost the civil war. The only way that the North/South West alliance in the APC can last is for the Party to accede to the decentralisation of power. If that happens, the APC will become a darling of even the South East and South-South which cloak “true federalism” in the toga of “resource control”.

There is no manner of “good governance” that can thrive on the neocolonial structure which the military set up to enable a section of the country dominate and freeload the political and economic resources of the nation. No sustainable good governance can be possible under a Spiderman/Superman arrangement because after a little while, “mere mortals” will be back in charge, and the journey to nowhere will continue.

OPINION A necessary scuffle

By Tochukwu Ezukanma

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UMAN behaviours are mostly determined by interests, be them group, personal, ideological or class interests. These interests can be outrageous, dictated by selfishness, avarice, mean-spiritedness, etc. They can also be altruistic, determined by indisputably selfless concerns for the betterment of others. These diverse interests are continually playing out in human affairs. And politics, especially, democratic politics is (or should be) the equitable and just resolution of these interests, balancing out disparate and conflicting human interests for the greatest good of the greatest number of people.

The 360 members of the Nigerian House of Representatives represent about 170 million Nigerians. That is, the individual representative represents, on the average, a little more than 472, 000 Nigerians. The National Assembly is the activity node of democratic politics, and thus, the epicenter of this supposed judicious harmonisation of diverse human interests. It is splendid if this can be done, steep in etiquette and civility. But there is nothing wrong with it turning messy, unruly, and even, degenerating into a free for all fight.

Richard Nixon once wrote that, “in politics and statecraft, power means life or death, happiness or tragedy, prosperity or poverty” for millions of people. The Nigerian legislature should be a bastion of intrepid and vigilant custodians of the constitution and the public good. And every responsible, committed and honourable custodian of the constitution and the public good must be prepared to fenestrate decorum C M Y K

and civility in defense of the lives, happiness and prosperity of more than 472,000 Nigerians that he had sworn to represent. It is that legislator that cannot jettison his pedantic formalism and prudish elitism and physically fight (if necessary) to defend the lives, happiness and prosperity of his people that is despicable. So, while physical fight among the legislators in the House of Representatives is ugly and tacky, it may be necessary.

The issue therefore is not the scuffle among the members of the House of Representatives but what triggered it. It is important to note that the crisis in the House of Representatives is somewhat different from that in the Senate. Fundamentally, the problem in the Senate is Bukola Saraki’s perfidy and usurpation. The pre-emptive “election” of Saraki as the President of the Senate, in the absence of 51 senators (nearly half of the entire senate) from his own political party (All Progressive Congress), was illegitimate and immoral. On the other hand, although the election of Yakubu Dogara as the Speaker of the House defied the Blind obedience predilections of the APC political to the party in the leaders, it was legitimate and credible; he defeated the party’s determination of preferred candidate, Femi Gbajabiamila, in a credible the leaders of the election. The contentious issue in House will the House is germane and pivotal: the supremacy of the pander party versus the independence inordinately to of the legislators. Should the party choose the Speaker and the political principal officers, and the godfatherism

lawmakers, with their votes, only ratify the party’s choices or should the elected representatives of the people, despite their loyalty to the party, be independent enough choose their Speaker and principal officers.

Technically, the party is supreme and members of the National Assembly are subject to its authority. But then, in this context, who is the “party”. Is the “party” really the party or a few powerful political godfathers hell-bent on imposing their favoured protégés on the members of the House? Even, in the most unlikely case that these choices are actually the party’s, there is still the need to strike a delicate balance between the supremacy of the party, and the independence and freedom of action of the legislators. If the representatives are all in want of knowledge, discipline and maturity, and, as such, need to be tightly controlled by the political party, why did the party nominate them and present them to the Nigerian electorate? On the other hand, if they are knowledgeable, disciplined and matured as they were earlier portrayed by their party before Nigerians voted for them, why then, can the party not trust their judgment in determining their leaders in the House?

The legislators in interacting and working with each other get to appreciate their individual talents and capabilities, and thus, can discern those that can be entrusted with leadership positions. As such, they are better informed than the political godfathers as to who are the most qualified contenders for, the office of the speaker and deputy speaker, and the principal officers. Blind obedience to the party in the determination of the leaders of the House will pander inordinately to political godfatherism.

Mr. Ezukanma, a public affairs analyst, wrote from Lagos.

20—Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 Send Opinions & Letters to: opinions1234@yahoo.com

The Generals need to apologise to Shagari

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HE National Party of Nigeria (NPN) the ruling party in the Second Republic was disliked by millions of people particularly the youths. It was perceived as the party of the rich. Indeed, it was founded by the ruling class including groups referred to as the Kaduna Mafia and ‘Money Bags’ Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola was to respond that it was an insult to refer to him as a ‘money bag’ because no bag could contain all his money.

The NPN situation was worsened with the emergence of a reluctant Alhaji Shehu Shagari as its presidential candidate. His ambition was to be a Senator, but other forces dragged him despite his cries, into the primaries where he defeated by a slim margin, Alhaji Maitama Sule and the preferred ‘mafia’ candidate, Alhaji Adamu Ciroma.

So while, Shagari was virtually frog-jumped into the Presidency in 1979, President Muhammadu Buhari who was elected thirty six years later, pursued his ambition over twelve years through sweat and blood using three different party platforms.

In comparison to Buhari, Shagari had another serious challenge; his

opponents doggedly contested his election. Although he won on August 16, 1979, his Supreme Court victory came on September 26, 1979, giving him only two work-days before his inauguration on October 1, 1979. Despite this handicap and his reluctance, he hit the ground running.

Within two months, he had not only created two brand new ministries; Science and Technology, and Housing and Environment, but had his Ministers, Advisers and a number of new Permanent Secretaries in place, all running at full speed. He had also inaugurated a Presidential Revenue Allocation Committee headed not by politicians, but a seasoned Economist, Dr. Pius Okigbo. There was also in place, a new Food policy and programme to increase production of cassava, maize, groundnut, rice and livestock. This was to be the foundation of the Green Revolution Programmme.

In that two-month period, the Shagari Administration had begun the re-organisation of the NNPC, reversed the car loan policy of the military and the expulsion of student leaders following their 1978 national protests. In that period, it had begun the building

or rebuilding of 191 roads including the Benin-Ore Road.

Its ‘Qualitative Education’ Programme including the introduction of the Open University System was in progress.

The plan was to admit 100,000 students in the first five years.

Needless to state, the National Assembly (NASS) was also up and running with Senator Joseph Wayas as Senate President and Edwin Ume-Ezeoke, Speaker.

There were no open disagreements in filing leadership positions in the NASS and certainly not the physical combats we are witnessing today.

But Shagari was considered quite slow in comparison with the pace of work in the opposition Unity Party of Nigeria(UPN) led by Chief Obafemi Jeremiah Awolowo which had five State Governors.

The NPN had seven governors, the Nigerian Peoples Party (NPP) led

In the fifteen years of renewed military rule, the country’s situation degenerated; getting worse as one military regime replaced the other; the coup plotters were so gluttonous, that they ate both the snail and its shell

Jega's exit and the uncertainty in INEC

By Olufemi Olusola

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OBODY in Nigeria until few days ago would think President Muhammadu Buhari could take a decision that would undermine the independence of INEC and public trust. The decision to direct the internal administrative workings of INEC through the choice of Amina Zakari to takeover the affairs of the Commision in the manner it was done came as a a great surprise.

The President should have been properly briefed that as long as the tenure of the national commissioners subsists, the chairman could always hand-over to any of them. This has been the way its been done whenever Prof. Attahiru Jega was outside the country and even when he was out of Abuja by handing over to any of his colleagues without recourse to the President because it is not an appointment the way presidency seemed to have wrongly construed his action.

The power of the President to appoint a chairman and members of INEC and other executive bodies under sections 153 and 154 in particular could only be exercised in consultation with the Council of state and Senate confirmation after screening. The President cannot act alone as he has done as required by the constitution given the sensitive nature of the election management body.

There is no provision in the constitution that gives the President power to direct routinely who should be an acting chairman. As long as there are commissioners whose tenure subsists handing-over to one another is a routine administrative process that hallmarks C M Y K

the independence of INEC. What has taken place now is a direct incursion if not invasion of the independence of the election management body by the presidency and this calls for concern.

Eternal vigilance the saying goes is the price a free democratic society must pay to retain its democratic rights, especially the right of democratic choice of its leaders at periodic elections. All sons and daughters of Oduduwa and Nigerians value this political right above all other rights and are ever ready to champion, defend and protect a body like INEC from being a tool in the hands of any individual or groups. Never again should Nigeria be returned to the Prof.

Maurice lwu era after Prof. Jega’s commendable achievements particularly in the area of growing public confidence in the electoral process.

The people of the South West whose votes along with those of other Nigerians brought this new government, expect that everyone, particularly President Buhari who is a beneficiary of an INEC

Given the exit dates of the national electoral commissioners; with Alhaji Wali expected to exit statutorily by August 11th 2015, and Alhaja Zakari by July 21st 2015, Jega handed over to Ambassador Wali

by Dr. Nnamdi Benjamin Azikiwe had three while the Mohammed Aminu Kano-led Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and the Great Nigerian Peoples Party (GNPP) of Waziri Ibrahim, had two governors each.

Despite Shagari’s speed on education, he was easily outpaced

by Alhaji Lateef Jakande, UPN’s ‘Action Governor of Lagos State who phased out the colonial shift system in schools, and was building schools in any space he could lay his hands on including lands belonging to private citizens who were giving no choice in the matter.

Simultaneously, Jakande was grabbing lands wherever he could find to build low cost housing estates for the people, and Shagari countered with a programme of building each year, two thousand low income houses in each of the 19 states and Abuja. Today, the houses in Lagos are called Jakande Estates and those in various states, Shagari Houses.

Despite this stiff competition, Shagari regularly called summits of political parties where party leaders were consulted. Contrast this with the on-going war of attrition between the APC and PDP. The irony is that while the parties of the Second Republic had ideological, political and policy differences, those between APC and PDP is the difference between six and half a dozen.

Sure, there were serious problems including in the economy and austerity measures were introduced in 1981. Power supply was epileptic, jobs in short supply and hunger, widespread.

There were also cases of unpaid salaries across the country. For this, an alert Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC) led by Alhaji Hassan Adebayo Sunmonu mobilized workers around a programmme; Fight Against

headed by Jega, would ensure that anyone who is to take over from Jega, should be someone who commands public confidence,trust and must be untainted and free from baggages of nepotism. One thing that Nigerians and the world would credit and remember President Goodluck Jonathan for, is his appointment of Prof.Jega that was nationally applauded, as well as his non interference in the administrative affairs of INEC, that led to a significant improvement in the electoral process such that an opposition party could win the last General election.

However, the exit of Prof. Jega has unwittingly exposed the new government of President Buhari, as one with very suspect motivations with regards to future elections, requiring all freedom loving Nigerians to pay close attention to the unfolding script and very disturbing development in INEC. Our late sage Pa Obafemi Awolowo in 1986 at the eve of the take off of the Ibrahim Banbagida organised Political Bureau, meant to fashion a governance framework that would lead to transition to civilian regime, declared that “whenever Nigerians expect that a new dawn has come they would be disappointed” . To be fair, thirty days is not enough to assess a new government but for us in the South West who voted for and gave President Buhari the much needed constitutional requirement of 25%, which he never got from the three geopolitical zones of the South in his three unsuccessful attempts except the 2015 elections, but who are now being told or reminded daily that our votes are less in value to other zones with bogus figures and as such do not deserve certain positions, we can only wish everyone well. Afterall, no king reigns forever, every king reigns but for a time. However, we the people of South West could see early enough a clear danger to our most cherished value of freedom of choice for the sons and daughters of Oduduwa in future elections. Hence. we would not standby and watch the take-over

Retrenchment And Non-Payment Of Wages (FAR & NOW) The NLC also forced states to pay some months arrears as pre-condition not to disrupt the 1983 general elections. Many clamoured for change, and debates and struggles went on to build a better country.

Then came martial music on December 31, 1983 with the generals announcing they had seized power. They swept many politicians into prison whether they were guilty or not. Within two years, they had also swept away over a million and half jobs, clamped opposition into detention without trial and imposed harsh austerity measures.

In the fifteen years of renewed military rule, the country’s situation degenerated; getting worse as one military regime replaced the other; the coup plotters were so gluttonous, that they ate both the snail and its shell.

The generals flew the large Nigeria Airways into oblivion, ran the Nigeria Railways aground, transformed the refineries into empty shells and sold all the ships of the Nigeria National Shipping Line (please don’t ask me where the money is, perhaps in some numbered Swiss account) By the time military rule ended in 1999, the country was held together by a thin rope, and millions survived on mere hope.

Today, the country is in a worse state than it was in the Second Republic; the politicians of old, compared to their successor military-politicians, appear like saints. The generals need go and apologise to Alhaji Shehu Shagari, not as a person, but as representative of the Second Republic politicians who were vilified, brutalised and demonised.

More importantly, they need to apologize to Nigerians for their years of misrule which set the country back by decades.

by an individual or groups who may eventually destroy a very key national institution like INEC, by the questionable choice made few hours after Prof. Jega’s exit.

More than ever before, Nigerians are now interested in who takes over from Prof.

Jega. and the entire composition of that Commission. The curious replacement of one Ambasador Wali whom Prof. Jega handed over to with Alhaja Amina Bala Zakari by the Buhari administration few hours after his exit, given her well known and established family ties with the President that both cannot deny poses a worrisome and a very early significant threat to the independence of the National Electoral Commission, an institution that all Nigerians should protect and watch very closely.

Prof. Jega it was reported, between the 1st and 2nd of June 2015, wrote to the Presidency informing it of his impending exit by 30th June, a fact the government ought to be aware of from administrative diligence. However, until the morning of Prof. Jega’s exit, government did not respond. Why? Given the exit dates of the national electoral commissioners; with Alhaji Wali expected to exit statutorily by August 11th 2015, and Alhaja Zakari by July 21st 2015, Jega handed over to Ambassador Wali. A very sensible and logical decision, considering the ample time the government may require to appoint a new substantive chairman and national commissioners that must be taken to National Council of state and Senate screening, confirmation and approval for such appointments under section 154 of the constitution.

Continues tomorrow on pg 18

•Dr.Olusola, Secretary, South West Susutainable Electoral Study Group, wrote from Ibadan.

JULY 6, 2015

Over 200 Chinese firms eye business in mining, agric sectors

BY FAVOUR NNABUGWU

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ver 200 Chinese companies have expressed interest in the country ’s mining, agriculture, confectionary and pharmaceutical sectors.

Speaking during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Chinese delegation and a consortium of Nigerian businessmen, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council (NIPC), Mrs. Uju

Aisha Hassan-Baba in Abuja, said the Council is willing to facilitate the Chinese companies’ business activities in Nigeria.

“We will also ensure that your investment is safe in Nigeria. We are willing to give you one-stop-shop services and other incentives that will ease your investment in the country.”

Hassan-Baba said, “We expect them to come with the profile of their companies and what they have to offer to us. We will be ready to open up our markets to them, that is why the NIPC is involved in this so that we can see what kind of investors they are.

“We are moving away from the oil sector and hoping that these investors can fit into these areas mentioned because some of these areas are the priority of the government especially

Continues on page 22

Ex-Ecobank CEO can seek $24 million payout after London ruling

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ormer Ecobank Transnational Inc. Chief Executive Officer, Thierry Tanoh can seek about $24 million awarded by West African

MEETING: From left, former President of Ghana, John Kufuor; President of Cote D’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara, CoChair of the Africa Energy Leaders Group (AELG); Tony O. Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings and Co-Chair of the AELG; Vice- President of Nigeria, Yemi Osinbajo during the inaugural meeting of the AELG in Abidjan to discuss regional solutions to the electricity deficit in Africa.

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the agricultural sector. The agriculture sector as you know, is the one that provides the most jobs.”

The investments, according to the leader of the Nigerian consortium coordinating the Chinese firms, Gen Chiemeka Egbemena are mainly companies involved in petroleum, iron and steel, agricultural and manufacturing sectors, as well as free

courts against his former employer after a London judge overturned an order blocking the payments.

Judge Robin Knowles lifted an injunction blocking Tanoh from enforcing court judgments in Togo and Ivory Coast, according to a judgment in London on Friday.

Tanoh may now collect 7.5 billion CFA Francs ($12.6 million) awarded in Ivory Coast in January and a further $11.5 million awarded by a Togolese judge in February, according to the judgment.

Tanoh left the bank more than a year ago as Nigerian regulators investigated allegations of management fraud and poor governance while he was CEO in 2013.

Tanoh denied any wrongdoing and subsequently sued Ecobank for unfairly terminating his contract in Togo and for defamation in Ivory Coast, winning both cases. Richard Uku, a spokesman for ETI in Lome, said he couldn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

Tanoh’s lawyers in London also declined to comment. The case is Ecobank v. Tanoh, High Court of Justice, Queen’s Bench Division, Case No. 2015-494.

22 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Cover

Entrepreneurial Education Revolution: An Imperative for Sustainable Development in Nigeria (2)

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AGM - From left: Newly elected president, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Prince Dapo Adelegan; immediate past president, NBCC, Prince Adeyemi Adefulu; past president, NBCC, Mrs. Adetutu Adeleke and the Director-General, NBCC, Mrs. Joyce Akpata at NBCC Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lagos.

Over 200 Chinese firms eye business in mining, agric sectors Continued from page 21

trade zone.

He stated that the Chinese Government is committed to encouraging and supporting Chinese companies’ investment in Nigeria, just as it continues supporting the country’s efforts at attracting foreign investment.

“The major significance is that we are falling in line with the new policy of government to look elsewhere for the growth of our economy and that is the desire of those companies that are coming to

invest in the area where the world seem to be moving.”

“About 200 Chinese companies are coming to do business in Nigeria. We are most interested in mining and agricultural and allied industry. These areas are our priority.

Mutual benefits have been enjoyed by the two countries in agriculture, economics, i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , communication, cultural exchange and education over the years of cooperation, Mr Egbemena said.

On his part, the President of Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry Limited (ABUCCI), Mr Joe Wenegieme said that the Chinese investors would come into the country next month to explore potential investment opportunities in the country with a five-day trade fair.

“We have sent letters out to different states government, local people and private organisations to come and meet with the investors so they can have the opportunity of discussing with them.”

Airline operators lose over $180m to bird strike incidents yearly —GROUP

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irline Operators of N i g e r i a (AON) have claimed that their members lose over $180 million (N41.4 billion) to bird strike incidents at airports in the country yearly.

Capt. Noggie Meggison, Chairman, AON, made the claim while speaking at the Nigeria Leadership Initiative (NLI) Safer Skies Forum in Lagos.

Meggison, who spoke on the topic, “Aviation Safety: Operators’ Perspective”, also attributed over 70 per cent of crashes in the country to oversight deficiencies of regulatory agencies. He said that the operators lose engines to bird strike yearly and aircraft engines now cost between $40 million and $70 million, depending on the aircraft.

“We need to start looking at landing aids and landing areas at airports because over 70 percent of air crashes in Nigeria are linked to C M Y K

Over 70 percent of air crashes in Nigeria are linked to negligence on the part of aviation parastatals and oversight deficiencies of regulatory agencies negligence on the part of aviation parastatals and oversight deficiencies of regulatory agencies.

“For instance, the ADC crash was due to air traffic control issue; Wings aviation crash due to wrong charting

by Nigerian Airspace Management Agency while Associated Plane was on ground for 24 months before it was taken to the skies.

“We need to look at the issues and not sweep issues

under the carpet in Nigeria.

“We have issues ranging from bad drainage runway surface to failure of air traffic controller to properly monitor runways, among others”, Meggison said.

Also speaking, Mr Adamu Abdullahi, Director, Consumer Protection Directorate of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), identified aging workforce and paucity of funds, amongst others, as challenges facing the sector.

Abdullahi said Nigeria was investing heavily on manpower development, adding that government was also revamping the Nigerian College of Aviation, Zaria for personnel training in critical areas. On his part, Mr Yemi Dada, Managing Director, IRS Airlines, said airlines were not making profit in Nigeria due to problems ranging from inadequate infrastructure, insecurity and operating a dollar based system.

igeria faces a number of is vital that entrepreneurial challenges that can education is addressed from only be met if it has innovative, an early age, besides, age is well-educated, and no barrier to entrepreneurship entrepreneurial citizens who, as Tony Hsieh of Zappos whatever their walk of life, have started selling worms from raw the spirit and inquisitiveness mud when he was 9 years old, to think in new ways, and the Steve Job, Richard Branson courage to meet and adapt to and Mark Zuckerberg of the the challenges facing them.

Facebook fame all started off as Moreover, a dynamic economy, young entrepreneurs. which is innovative and able The time is ripe for us as a to create the jobs that are country to stop celebrating needed, will require a greater mere certificates and number of young people who dormancy, while primacy and are willing and able to become recognition should be given to entrepreneurs, young people creativity, skills and who will launch and enterprising spirit. successfully develop their own The present times have commercial or social ventures, shown over time that the global or who will become innovators arena is blind to your in the wider organisations in credentials but is a wealth which they work. Because creating slave to your skills and education is the key to shaping abilities. Anyway, it is not your young people’s attitudes, skills credentials that guarantees and culture, it is vital that success in the global/ entrepreneurship information age education is but rather your addressed from an problem solving A dynamic early age. abilities, critical economy, Entrepreneurship thinking ability education is which is that can discern essential not only ‘fact from fiction’, innovative to shape the your ability to and able to mindsets of young adapt (un-learn & create the people but also to re-learn), your provide the skills creative and jobs that are and knowledge i n n o v a t i ve needed, will that are central to abilities and your require a developing an life-long love of greater entrepreneurial learning. If your culture. ‘piece of paper ’ number of It is important we to deliver young people failed embrace this these then whilst ‘global age’ it may have paradigm in our successfully education system prepared you for as it has been done in China, the industrialized 20th century India, Australia, Europe, U.S.A economy but it has certainly and of lately the Asian tigers failed you in the globalized (Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan 21st. and the Koreas).The most As Alvin Toffler puts it, ‘The advanced form of this new illiterates of the 21st century model is what is referred to as will not be those who cannot ‘TEACHERPRENEUR’, read and write, but those who Which Bill Gates was cannot learn unlearn and rereferring to in 2010 when he learn’. It is the acceptance of said ‘five years from now on this open secret that should the web, you will be able to find make policy makers and the the best lectures in the world general populace to shift and it will be better than any attention from the conventional single university’. way of thinking that you must This involves embedding be a graduate before achieving entrepreneurial education into success. Some of the inventors education and training right such as Bill Gates, and Mark from the primary school to Zuckerberg dropped out of secondary school and tertiary school to make it in life because institution. The essence of this of their innovative, creative and is because education is key to enterprising spirit and not shaping young people’s necessarily because of attitudes, skills and culture, it certificate.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 23

Nigeria, time to try new ideas D

uring the ideological cold war between the Western and Eastern block, Joseph Schumpeter coined the seemingly paradoxical term “creative destruction." Since then, generations of economists have adopted it as a shorthand description of the free market’s messy way of delivering progress. In Capitalism, Socialism, and Democracy (1942), the Austrian economist wrote: “The opening up of new markets, foreign or domestic, and the organisational development from the craft shop to such concerns as U.S. Steel illustrate the same process of industrial mutation - if I may use that biological term - that incessantly revolutionises the economic structure from within, incessantly destroying the old one, incessantly creating a new one.”

Looking at Nigeria’s socioeconomic milieu, the greatest challenge facing the nation is the fact that Nigerian leaders at all levels do not allow room for this principle to apply in the system. Creative destruction of the old calls for new ways of thinking and doing things. It is about innovation, new ideas and creativity. The Nigerian environment at the moment, does not permit new ways.

Nigerian politicians are the same old stock. They evolve from the same crop bereft of new ideas. They are stuck with the old. Nigerians thought that the idea espoused by Schumpeter was coming into place with the APC change

mantra. But as it is, there is just nothing new that is about to happen. Mohammadu Buhari has told the nation he is of the old stock, so expect nothing new.

Nigerians' expectation from the new government at all levels is that the idea of sharing will be shelved and a new thinking of baking a larger cake for the nation will emerge. But Governors are already at it, talking of excess crude account that is to be shared. They have dragged as usual the yet-tosettle down president into setting up a committee to look into what the governors know too well has been shared. If this government were ready to replace old ways of thinking with the new, the Federal Government would have ignored these jobless governors.

The Federal Government should have set up a committee to think of ways to earn more revenue at all levels of government. The revenue that accrues to the Federation Account is mainly from royalties, taxes, signature bonus or fees, VAT and revenue from duties paid on imported products. When the President told Governors to go and sort out their finances, it was based on the principle of fiscal federalism. The new idea that should come into governance now is true fiscal federalism. The Federal Government and the states should negotiate rights to mineral resources in the country. It should be that

while states exercise right of ownership to resources in their domain, they should collect the royalties, grant operating permits to companies and pay tax at an agreed rate to the Federal Government. Local government should be empowered to collect fees and dues in their areas of jurisdiction.

This of course will bring about massive investment in the exploitation of natural resources across the country. States will then be forced to attract investors to exploit the resources in their domain. It will also encourage states to revive industries and put in place conducive environment for investors to play.

As it is at the moment, the much talked about agriculture and solid mineral as the center points of revival of the

Nigerians' expectation from the new government at all levels is that the idea of sharing will be shelved and a new thinking of baking a larger cake for the nation will emerge

economy, have no clear cut policy that indicates the integration of the value chains in each of the sectors and their linkages to the entire economy.

The lack of linkage of the oil sector to the other sectors of the economy has had adverse effects on the economic development of Nigeria.

Nigerian politicians are not creative, creative destruction is the needed essential balm for moving a society forward. The perennial gale of creative destruction has become the centerpiece for modern thinking on how economies evolve.

Schumpeter and the economists who adopt his succinct summary of the free market acknowledged the fact that lost jobs, ruined companies, and vanishing industries are inherent parts of the growth system. The saving grace comes from recognising the good that comes from the turmoil.

The greatest undoing of this nation is that every time there is a regime change, the new leaders dwell much in the past by pursuing shadows. They start investigations that lead nowhere all because they have no new ideas to share. It is a known fact globally that over time, societies that allow creative destruction to operate grow more productive and richer; their citizens see the benefits of new and better ideas, shorter work weeks, better jobs, and higher living standards.

This is not the case with Nigeria and nobody has ever asked why?

As it is from economic history a society cannot reap the rewards of creative destruction without accepting that some individuals might be worse off, not just in the short-term, but perhaps forever. At the same time, attempts to soften the harsher aspects of creative destruction by trying to preserve jobs or protect industries could lead to stagnation and decline, short-circuiting the march to progress.

Schumpeter’s enduring term reminds nations that capitalism’s pain and gain are inextricably linked. The process of creating new industries does not go forward without sweeping away the preexisting order. It is the same for political class. You cannot make progress without doing away with the old order of political practices.

Entrepreneurs introduce new products and technologies with an eye toward making themselves better off - the profit motive. New goods and services, new firms, and new industries compete with existing ones in the marketplace, taking customers by offering lower prices, better performance, new features, catchier styling, faster service, more convenient locations, higher status, more aggressive marketing, or more attractive packaging. In the same vein, Nigerian politicians should learn to evolve new ideas, political style, new political culture, tolerance and service to the people, not just to serve personal interest of allocating millions of naira as wardrobe allowance to themselves.

Business & Economy

FIRS collects N1 .8trn in six months N1.8trn

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he Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) said in Abuja that it collected N1.85 trillion as tax from the various sectors of the economy between January and June this year. The Acting Chairman of agency, Mr Samuel Ogungbesan, made this known before the leadership of the Senate to intimate it on the performance of the agency in the first half of 2015 fiscal year.

He disclosed that N697 billion was generated from Petroleum Profit Tax, N778 billion from Company Tax, while N376 billion was realised from Value Added Tax within the period under review.

However, he noted that there was a shortfall in the level of non-oil revenue.

According to him, the increase in tax evasion by individuals and corporate bodies was responsible for the low level of non-oil revenue.

He noted, for instance, that

efforts by the FIRS to get surcharges from owners of private jets and mansions in the country over the years had not yielded the desired results.

“We looked at those who own private jets and thought that yes, you are enjoying facilities and assets Nigerians do not

We raised assessment on about 130 private jet owners because we were made to understand that we have up to that number

have privilege to enjoying; we will name something we call surcharge on you, and of course customs also was to do some others like furniture surcharge, mansion surcharge, various kind of surcharges.

“But regrettably, we have not been able to administer this.

One, we have challenges; we raised assessment on about 130 private jet owners because we were made to understand that we have up to that number,” said Ogungbesan.

The FIRS boss further explained that the agency recorded low revenue collection this year as a result of the general election and delay in the passage of the 2015 budget.

Other factors, according to him, include poor financing of the real sector by banks and Boko Haram insurgency in the North East region.

He, however, expressed optimism that the new administration would work toward improving on the country’s revenue base.

The President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, tasked the FIRS to find ways to improve on collection of non-oil revenue.

He frowned at the country’s dependence on revenue generated from crude oil sales.

Saraki pointed out that nonoil revenue was capable of making up for the revenue shortfall recorded by the country following the drop in international oil price.

He said: “I think Nigeria’s continued dependence on oil is not something we should encourage.”

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24 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Business & Economy

Chinese airlines mulls direct flights from Nigeria

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hinese embassy in Nigeria said that it is carrying out analysis on the possibility of direct flights from China to Nigeria by Chinese airlines.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Public Affairs Unit of the embassy. “Chinese airlines are studying the feasibility of operating direct flights between China and Africa according to market rules.

The Chinese side will continue to support bilateral cooperation in the field of civil aviation,“ it said.

The statement also said that Chinese investors were also considering investing in the continent’s agriculture, trade, manufacturing, power and tourism sector sectors.

It said that most investors have shown great interests in Nigerian market. The Chinese government has repeatedly said it was ready to contribute its quota towards the development of Africa’s aviation sector.

Terminal operator bemoans inconsistent policies at ports

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he General Manager of Five Star Logistics Ltd., Mr Rigo Nazzari, said inconsistent government policies at ports had been having adverse effects on operations of the terminal.

Nazzari said this when the Executive Secretary of Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Mr Hassan Bello, paid a courtesy visit to the terminal at the Roll On/Roll Off (RORO) Port n Lagos.

“The auto policy is affecting our terminal. The auto policy has hindered our operations.

“We are recording low activities in our terminal as a result of the unstable policy. We urge you to assist in conveying our message to the government,” Nazzari said.

He said the management of the terminal would continue to partner with Nigeria as the largest business economic avenue in West Africa.

We are on the right path to prosperity but our concern is efficient access roads to the ports,” Nazzari said.

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MONEYGRAM: From left: Korede Demola-Adeniyi, Head, Premier Banking, Ecobank Nigeria; Kingsley Umadia, Executive Director, Ecobank; Alexander Hoofmann, Executive Vice-President, Business Development, Moneygram and Kemi Ogunsanya, Regional Manager, Anglophone, West Africa, Moneygram at the commencement of MoneyGram Send services in Ecobank branches on Thursday in Lagos.

New report projects steady decline in food prices over next decade A

new report issued by the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) said the real prices for global agricultural products would continue their gradual decline over the coming decade.

The report, “OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook 20152024” indicated that decline in prices would be as a result of a combination of strong crop yields, higher

productivity and slower growth in global demand.

Low cost of oil pushes energy and fertilizer costs down and removes incentives for the production of first-generation biofuels made from food crops

It noted that as the low cost of oil pushes energy and fertilizer costs down and removes incentives for the production of first-generation biofuels made from food crops, food prices would continue to slope downwards over the next ten years.

It said that modest production growth was expected in Africa, although further investments could raise yields and production significantly.

The report said among the

various commodities enjoying a decline in market costs are cereal prices, which as a result of the concurrence of high cereal stocks and low oil prices, are expected to weaken in the short term. The statement also noted that over the medium term, however, slowly rising production costs and sustained demand may strengthen prices again. It said high sugar demand in developing countries would likely boost prices for the commodity and spur further investment in the sector.

The report suggested that the market outcome would nonetheless hinge on the ongoing competition between the profitability of sugar versus ethanol in Brazil, considered to be the world’s leading producer.

The report said in spite of the advantageous scenario regarding global food pricing, prices would likely remain at levels above those at the beginning of the 2000s.

It said major changes in demand should be expected throughout the developing world, amid a growing population, rising per capita incomes and urbanisation, which, would increase demand for food. The report further explained that rising incomes would prompt consumers to continue diversifying their diets, notably by increasing their consumption of animal protein relative to starches.

It said as a result, the prices of meat and dairy products are expected to be high, relative to crop prices. The report explained that among crops, the prices of coarse grains and oil-seeds, used for animal feed, would rise relative to the prices of food staples.

NSE moves 138.55m shares worth N1.55bn

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ransactions at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) on Friday maintained a downward trend as investors staked N1.55 billion on 138.55 million shares transacted in 2,796 deals.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the volume of shares traded closed lower compared with 186.73 million shares valued N1.77 billion exchanged in 3,257 deals on Thursday.

UBA emerged the most traded equity with an exchange of 18.41 million shares worth N86.102 million transacted in 157 deals. It was trailed by Zenith Bank which accounted for 15.75 million

shares worth N305.59 million achieved in 149 deals, while FBN Holdings sold 14.36 million shares valued N114.29 million traded in 260 deals.

Beco Petroleum Products transacted 9.76 million shares worth N4.88 million in one deal and Access Bank sold 9.08 valued N48.70 million exchanged in 246 deals.

Similarly, the All-Share Index lost 200.77 points or 0.61 per cent to close at 32,538.34 compared with 32,739.11 recorded on Thursday due to price losses by major blue chip equities.

Also, the market capitalisation which opened at N11.176 trillion decreased by N69 billion to close at N11.107

All-Share Index lost 200.77 points or 0.61 percent to close at 32,538.34

trillion. Dangote Cement topped the losers’ chart, dropping by N2.50 to close at

N170 per share.

It was followed by Lafarge Africa with N2 to close at N101, while Nigerian Breweries dipped N1.05 to close at N144 per share.

Seplat lost N1 to close at N342 and Guinness also dropped

by N1 to close at N152 per share. On the other hand, 7UP recorded the highest price gain to lead to gainers’ table, appreciating by N7 to close at N190 per share. Nestle inched N4 to close at N854, while UACN chalked up N1.99 to close at N44.49 per share. Cement Company of Northern Nigeria grew by 50k to close at N11.50 and Port Land Paint gained 23k to close at N4.90 per share.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 25

Business & Economy

N480bn spent annually on malaria treatment

By PROVIDENCE OBUH

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bout N480 billion is lost annually to malaria treatment and absenteeism which is about 46 per cent of all curative health costs, said National Coordinator, National Malaria Elimination Programme Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Nnenna Ezeigwe.

To address this challenge, she said that there is a need for massive awareness creation for behavioural change and improved health seeking behaviour to increase demand for services and utilisation of various intervention especially Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs), Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) and Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) and also the need to fill the existing gap of $500 million for 2015 to Procure and distribute anti malarial medicines and commodities and Scale up Indoor residual spraying (IRS) Ezeigwe attributed the figure to malaria burden and effect on the economy, adding that the country accounts for a quarter of malaria burden in Africa Another economic burden and effect of malaria to the economy is the re direction of finances from health maintenance (e.g. good nutrition, proper hygiene) to treatment “Malaria is endemic in Nigeria with all year round

transmission; about 97 percent of total population at risk,” she said.

On the other hand, Mr. Wellington Oyibo, from the International Center for Malaria Microscopy and Malaria RDT Quality Assurance Center, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, said that malaria is preventable, curable but kills and a child die every 60 seconds.

Oyibo described malaria as a disease caused by the obligate intracellular protozoa of the genus Plasmodium, explaining that clinical malaria emphasises the concomitant signs and symptoms in addition to

malaria parasite while, plasmodium infection is the presence of the parasite in the blood without symptoms.

His words, “Increased

Another economic burden and effect of malaria to the economy is the redirection of finances from health maintenance to treatment

intervention with funding, hope for success but could be slow if momentum not sustained.

“Use of interventions such as: Long Lasting Insecticide Nets (LLINs), medicine for intermittent prevention of malaria and other preventive measures including vaccines.

Prompt testing for malaria using rapid test is now available and reliable. ACTs are effective when malaria is confirmed.

“Advocacy, communication, social mobilisation is critical in promoting the malaria strategies of government. State governments to take up full responsibility for malaria control and Public-private partnership to fight malaria critical.”

OPEC over-supplies dampen rise in oil prices

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upply of crude from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) rose to a three-year high of 31.60 million barrels per day (bpd) in June, analysts said.

Analysts at PVM Oil Associates, London said outside the United States supply, oil supply from OPEC alone had risen by 300,000 bdp up from 31.30 million bpd in May. “We are going into the second half of this year with a heavily oversupplied fundamental picture, which makes any bullish price forecast hard to accept,” oil market analysts wrote.

Other analysts echoed assessments of a fall in prices in the second half of the year.

“When refineries go into fall (autumn) maintenance we expect to see some significant pressure on crude oil and on that basis we expect to see the crude time-spreads under pressure by the end of the third quarter,” said Olivier Jakob, analyst at Switzerland-based Petromatrix.

But oil prices edged higher as the U.S. dollar slipped following weaker-than-expected U.S. nonfarm payrolls data. Poll indications that Greek citizens were expected to back a cashfor-reforms deal in a referendum on Sunday added to the bullish momentum, traders said.

Shippers’ Council set to audit terminal operators LAUNCH: From left: Uduak Ekpo-Ufot, Senior Manager, Data Services, Airtel Nigeria; Phyno, (Chibuzo Azubuike) Airtel Smart Icon, NITIN Anand, Vice-President, Data and Digital Services, Airtel Nigeria and Felix Ofulue, Public Relations Manager, Airtel Nigeria, during the launch of Airtel UnlimiNET Data in Lagos.

Inadequate foreign exchange hampers fuel importation, says DAPPMA T

he Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association (DAPPMA) has blamed inadequate foreign exchange facility from banks for the inability of marketers to import petrol into the country.

Mr Olufemi Adewole, the Executive Secretary, DAPPMA disclosed this in Lagos, against the backdrop of the ongoing lingering fuel scarcity.

According to him, most marketers are faced with the challenges of getting foreign exchange facility from banks to fast-track petroleum products’ importation.

“The business of oil and gas importation involved changing naira into dollar to be able to import products, but banks often refused to give foreign exchange facility.

“Most marketers that have licences to import products could not import

due to foreign exchange challenges.

Some marketers who imported some cargoes of petrol into the country, which cost around 18 to 20 million dollars, found it difficult to pay their foreign partners in dollars because banks were not giving foreign exchange to marketers.

Adewole said that the inability of marketers to access banks foreign exchange contributed to the ongoing fuel scarcity in the country. He said that marketers were also constrained due to the burden created by unpaid subsidies.

According to him, the current foreign exchange crisis in the country, as well as the failure of banks to advance loan facilities, make it difficult to consider importing fuel.

Some of the major marketers, who preferred not to be quoted, said that the inability of government to pay

subsidy debt of more than N300 billion also contributed to the lingering scarcity.

The marketers said they were unable to import fuel in the last two months due to accumulated debt— as a result of the outstanding subsidy. Mr Seyi Gambo, a former Publicity Relations Officer of PENGASSAN, urged the Buhari administration to urgently address the issue of downstream, describing it as the major problem confronting the nation. According to Gambo, oil cartels and other actors in the sector, had held the country hostage for too long, and full deregulation is the ultimate solution to the problem.

“With deregulation, there is guarantee of product availability and once the products are available, factors of demand and supply will dictate the pricing,” he said.

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he Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has unveiled plan to audit the operations of private terminal operators to attain operational efficiency. The Executive Secretary of the NSC, Mr Hassan Bello, disclosed this in Lagos during a courtesy visit to Ports and Cargo Handling Services Ltd, the port operations arm of the Sifax Group.

Ports and Cargo Handling Services, operating in terminal ‘C’ of the Tin-Can Island port, Lagos, is among the few terminal operators granted the concession to run ports in Nigeria. Bello said the idea of auditing the terminal operators was meant to ascertain their equipment and find out the challenges facing them.

“There is need to cooperate with the Nigerian Shippers Council having been gazetted as the commercial regulator. It is important to transform the port and make it the hub of the West Africa sub-region,” he said. The NSC chief said there was the need for modern shipping practice, adding that the council was ready to listen to complaints from shippers and convey their requests to the Federal Government.

26 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Banking & Finance

Heritage Bank reiterates commitment to offering innovative services

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anaging Director/Chief Executive, Heritage Bank Limited, Mr. Ifie Sekibo said that the bank is committed to introducing more innovative banking services.

He made this pledge while speaking on ‘Innovation in Financial Services Delivery’ at the annual Cashless Card Expo of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).”

Heritage Bank, he said, transformed the interior of banking halls, and was the first bank without an in-house Data center. “We are the first to deploy deposit machines in all branches, and also launched the first real transparent MasterCard in Nigeria. In addition to these, Heritage Bank transformed small and medium enterprise (SME) banking.”

Heritage bank, he noted, is a product of innovation, and hence encourage deployment of innovative platforms.

“We bounced back on the waves of innovative thinking, we thrive on an innovative ecosystem, we encourage and deploy innovative platforms”, he said.

Sekibo pointed out that innovation is inevitable for the banking industry. This he said is due to changing dynamics across the globe which has penetrated banking. These changes, he noted are driven by forces of globalisation, self service mobile devices and regulation, adding that the impact of these changes on the Nigerian banking landscape is reflected in the sharp increase in the growth of electronic payment services between 2012 and 2014 in the country.

He noted that, “The volume of e-payment in Nigeria grew from N18.1 trillion in 2012 to N35.1 trillion in 2014. While transactions through PoS increased from N48 billion in 2013 to N312 billion in 2014, Instant Pay transactions increased from N3.8 trillion in 2012 to N19.9 trillion in 2014”. He said that the growth in e-payment however does not mirror the huge population of mobile phone users in the country.

“There are over 105 million mobile phones users in Nigeria.

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WORKSHOP: - From left, Mr. Richard Morgan, Managing Director, YTGO Limited; Mrs. Abigail Oyewobi, Managing Director, Pinnacle Project Managers and Mr. Dipo Akinyemi, Branch Manager, John Street, Sterling Bank Plc at a workshop supported by the bank in Lagos.

Financial Derivatives predicts 9.1% inflation for June zSays further naira devaluation inevitable STORIES BY BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

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nalysts at Financial D e r i v a t i v e s Company have predicted a one percent increase in inflation rate to 9.1 percent for the month of June.

The prediction is contained in the FDC Economic Bulletin issued on Wednesday.

The company also stated that another devaluation of the naira is inevitable despite addition restrictions to the foreign exchange market recently announced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (NBS).

The inflation rate predicted for June is coming about two weeks to the July 16 th date scheduled by the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics for the official inflation rate for June.

The company stated, “Based on our forecast, headline inflation in Nigeria for June is expected to increase marginally to 9.1% (±0.2%) from the level of 9.0% in May 2015.

“If accurate, this will be the seventh consecutive monthly increase in inflation since November 2014, and the highest level in 2 years.

Nigeria’s inflation continues to yield to the impact of protracted fuel scarcity that extended into mid-June.

“Other factors that have contributed to increased inflation include reduced supply of food, owing to logistics issues and heavy

rainfall, which has affected planting in some regions of the country, and higher price of imported goods due to the exchange rate factor.

“At its next Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on July 20 to 21, the Central Bank of Nigeria would have to proffer solutions to address inflation, depleting external reserves and determine an efficient exchange rate price mechanism. This is a

significant development given the apex institution’s decision to restrict access to the interbank currency market on 41 select items, including staples, rice, cement, tomato products and poultry. This pushes the pressure towards the parallel market.

The additional N33 that importers would have to pay to purchase dollars will translate into increased prices of imported goods.

This increase in inflation rate puts the CBN under pressure to review interest rate (MPR) upward at a time when a downward review was being mooted.

Commenting on the need and impact of further devaluation of the naira, the Company stated, “Despite the CBN’s attempts to prevent a further devaluation of the naira, it is inevitable that the CBN would succumb to pressure.

The effect of an exchange rate adjustment will include: Higher inflation stemming from more expensive imported items. Producers may have to pass on the cost of imported raw materials to consumers, thereby causing cost-push inflation; “Domestic investors that want invest in foreign stocks would have to source for the dollar at a higher rate. On the other hand, a weaker naira could spur increased stock market participation by foreign investors; “Majority of the stocks quoted on the floor of the stock exchange are owned by foreigners.

Devaluation provides an avenue to own more shares of Nigerian companies; “The CBN restriction of importers’ access to foreign exchange at the interbank market would lead to inflation. However, in the long term, this decision could revive and bolster the agricultural and manufacturing sectors.”

Nihilent organises seminar for insurers

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ihilent Nigeria, a Lagos based leading global business consulting and solutions integration company, and a subsidiary of India headquartered Nihilent Technologies, in association with the Nigeria Insurance Association (NIA), recently organised a workshop on digital transformation for the insurance industry and the need for quality frameworks in the sector.

The day-long seminar had eminent speakers including Ravi Teja, VP of global consulting businesses at Nihilent, Suhas Oak and Martins Olajide, SMEs on IT governance frameworks, Vijay Zende, SME on insurance covering key talk points in the agenda. Ravi talked at length on the top trends in digital and explained with case studies, how insurance, like other critical sectors is being driven by Social, Mobile, Analytics, Cloud and Internet of Things.

Vijay introduced the audience to Nihilent’s wide range of technology and consulting services delivered for Nigerian businesses, while Suhas and Martinsdwelt on the importance of business frameworks like ISO 27001 and COBIT 5 for effective governance of information assets.

Oti Ikomi, Chairman, Nihilent Nigeria acknowledged NIA’s support in this knowledge sharing initiative.

On the seminar, he had this to say: “The insurance industry in Nigeria is going through a paradigm shift in this digital era, and we realized the need for a comprehensive seminar on these lines”. He drew attention to the role of Nihilent in the insurance industry. “For the past 15 years, Nihilent has been driving change management using digital and Information Technologies in emerging markets such as South Africa, Tanzania, India and Nigeria, and has helped financial services and insurances companies.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 27

Banking & Finance Bayelsa moves to leverage private sector investment for economic growth IEI-Anchor PFA sacks Zwingina as board chairman

BY JONAH NWOKPOKU

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ayelsa State government is set to leverage on private sector investment to drive the economic growth of the state This, according Commissioner for Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment, Hon. Kemela Okara is the purpose of the Second Bayelsa State Economic Summit schedule to hold from July 29th to July 31st in Yenagoa, the state capital.

In an interaction with journalists in Lagos last week, Okara explained that the reason for organising the Bayelsa state investors forum is that “we felt it is important coming from the backdrop of what used to be Bayelsa State before the amnesty when Bayelsa was known for things like militancy, pipeline vandalism, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

“So, coming from that background, post amnesty, the government of His Excellency, Seriake Dickson saw very clearly that there was need to communicate that Bayelsa is open for business, that Bayelsa welcomes investors and that the state is serious about growing the local economy.

And one of the ways that was clear to us to communicate that effectively was to organise a forum where investors can meet with government officials and can meet with the local private sector in Bayelsa State and can have discussions focused on how to establish businesses in specific focus areas.”

Held successfully for the first time in 2014 with over 800 delegates in attendance, the forum, according to Okara, had already started producing tangible results as the state recently penned a N19.8 billion contract with Kesio Associates Nigeria Limited, one of the companies that participated in the maiden edition of the forum, to build a 5,000 unit stalls of building materials market to serve the entire Niger Delta region.

Okara said the idea of opening up Bayelsa State up for investors was borne out of a vision to create opportunities for all in the state while creating a private sector context that would allow private enterprises to thrive in the state.

According to him, “We set a very clear vision and our vision was possibly to become the model of African

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AWARD - From left: Nduka Mba-Uzoukwu, Divisional Head, Service Management, Keystone bank limited, and Uzoma Dozie, Manging Director, Diamond bank Plc, at the Card Expo Award 2015 in Lagos, where Keystone Bank won the Best Achievement in Customer Service. economic success story.

Flowing from that, we asked ourselves what to do. And our aim is to grow enterprise, create jobs in order that we can have prosperity for all.

Our strategy has been that for us to achieve these dreams, we need to move away from depending on the receipt of FAAC allocation that comes to every state on a monthly basis to having an economy that has a proper value chain with opportunities that abound. That can only be achieved when you focus on industrialisation. This is because it is when you industrialise that you create secondary and tertiary levels where people can be hooked up on the value chain.

“Having determined that, we considered what should be our focus areas. We determined that four areas should be our focus. One area that is very obvious is oil and gas industrial activities. This is because we already have a well developed oil exploration segment of the market. And then we thought about the industries that can spin off from there. These include industries in petrochemicals, fertiliser and refining.

“The second focus area is agriculture. Bayelsa State even prior to oil exploration was a very big centre for oil palm production. As a matter of fact, some of the earliest palm oil estates were established in Bayelsa State way back in the 1960s. So we thought, let us deepen the oil palm sector of the agriculture.

The other area we considered

is rice farming, because our terrain is ideal for rice farming.”

Explaining further, he said: “The third area we are focusing on is power generation. And the reason for us is quite simple. This is because, even though Bayelsa is known as oil and gas producing state, we are actually more of gas than oil.

We have more gas than oil. In many ways, oil is actually incidental to the abundance of gas that Bayelsa State has.

And gas is fixed up for power generation. So our aim is to attract power generation companies to be cited in Bayelsa State. In that regard, we have set aside an area which is called a power hub, an area which is in continuity to gas evacuation.

We need to move away from depending on the receipt of FAAC allocation that comes to every state on a monthly basis to having an economy that has a proper value chain

“The fourth area for us is light manufacturing. From our studies, we have realised that for many businesses, what is key for them in light manufacturing types of endeavours is really regular power supply. If we have regular power supply, we will be able to attract that kind of businesses because power is perhaps the single costliest factor for any business anywhere in Nigeria. So we thought we could leverage on that.

Tied to light manufacturing is the establishment of the ecoindustrial park. This refers to what is today’s global best practice in building industrial parks to make the environment greener, to have much better standard of waste management so that waste will not impact negatively on the environment.”

He said these areas, for which they are seeking investors, shall form the fulcrum upon which the foundation of Bayelsa State’s economy shall be built. He said to drive this; the state has already begun to put the requisite infrastructure like access road, finance, and other forms of incentive in place.

“We know we cannot achieve these without certain key enablers,” he said.

He added: “One is infrastructure and it should be noted that within the vicinity of this industrial park that is being built, there is an airport which is due to be completed this year. It is just fifteen minutes drive from this eco-industrial park.

he Board of Directors of IEI-Anchor Pension Managers Limited has sacked Jonathan Zwingina its chairman following a vote of no confidence passed on him by the directors.

Zwingina, who had been the chairman of the board since its incorporation in November 2004 was sacked at the board’s meeting last week in Abuja due to allegation of interference with the day-to-day management of the company and altering Minutes of Board Meetings.

In fact, the PFA is believed to have had five managing directors in the last 10 years under the chairmanship of Senator Zwingina, a development, analysts say does not augur well for the organization and industry.

Stakeholders are hopeful that with this development the management and the Board would now focus on building value for the stakeholders and remain competitive in the industry.

A source in PenCom confirmed the development saying, “We were notified of the action by the management of the organization. It is within the confines of the organization to do what it feels right for its smooth operation.”

On measures put in place to ensure that similar occurrence does not happen in the industry, the source said, “This is why we have the fit and proper requirement for appointments into any organization and we shall continue to enforce and monitor it.”

A former managing director of the PFA who spoke on the condition of anonymity described the removal of Senator Zwingina as Chairman as long overdue. At the company’s annual general meeting last year, Solomon Okoli, managing director of the company assured shareholders that with the extension of their operations to 30 states of the federation, servicing over 75,000 customers and managing a couple of states’ staff pension, the company was now positioned for sustainable growth and profitability.

28 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Corporate Finance

LBS Alumni vows to promote social entrepreneurship

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agos Business School, LBS Alumni Association has stated its commitment to promote social entrepreneurship and a culture of excellence in Nigeria.

LBS Alumni Association stated this during its annual President’s Dinner held recently in Lagos. The event which had in attendance distinguished alumni of the school and notable captains of industries is the most anticipated event of the institution.

Speaking at the event, the Lagos Business School Alumni Association’s President, Mr. Wole Oshin stated that the association would continue to offer opportunity for continuous learning and trends in the business environment. He noted that “through our various summits and topics we have attempted to impact Government policies in the past in different ways’ Oshin added that “this year ’s focus to encourage social entrepreneurship has led to the setting up of the Lagos Business School’s Alumni Association’s President’s Impact Entrepreneurship awards, which would commence in the third quarter of this year. It is open to Lagos Business School Students and its aim is for them to identify projects that would impact on their environment” Also speaking at the event, the Dean, Lagos Business School, Dr Enase Okonedo, has grown to become one of the best Business Schools in West Africa. She noted that “from 11 Customs Executive Education to organizations in 2009, we have now developed and offered 39 customs executive education to organizations in 2014. The Lagos Business School is now ranked amongst the top 70 business schools in the world offering customs executive education.”

Honoured at the event with the distinguished Alumni award was Mrs Omobola Johnson, who served as the immediate past Minister for Communication and Technology.

She was recognized based on her invaluable contributions to the areas of Information and Communication Technology during her time of service, Present at the ceremony were dignitaries including past presidents of the Association, former Government officials and renowned industrialists.

VOYAGE - From left: Mrs Amaka Ifeora, Asst. Director, Compliance and Monitoring and Enforcement, Nigerian Shippers Councils; Dr Phil Ofulue, Executive Director, Administration, Sifax Group; Captain Rohan Catalin, captain of the ship; Mr Henry Ajoh, GM, Shipping, Sifax Group and Mr John Jenkins, MD, Ports & Cargo Handling Services Ltd at the maiden voyage of Sifax MNM African shippng Line's Vessel MV SCL Angela to Lagos on Friday.

Photo by Lamidi Bamidele

Shareholders query low attendance of members at AGMs

BY PETER EGWUATU

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hareholders have berated the low attendance of members at Annual General Meetings, AGMs, just as they tasked the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC to make policy directing companies to repackage proceedings at meetings.

The shareholders, under the

aegis of Proactive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, PROSAN who spoke to Vanguard said “We have observed that less than 2 per cent of the shareholders of quoted companies attend their companies’ AGM globally.”

The National Coordinator of PROSAN, Mr. Oderinde Taiwo, who spoke the minds of its members stated that one of the demands of sustainable good corporate governance is

the disclosure of vital information to shareholders which are always discussed among other matters on the floors of the AGM of companies.

According to him “By implication if there is any way such proceedings can be assessed by these shareholders after such AGM , it will be a move towards positive direction. Therefore, we the members of PROSAN ,

the Nigerian representative in the World Federation of Investors, WFI do hereby suggest to the Director General of SEC to make policy that will compel all the quoted companies in Nigeria to package the proceedings of their AGM in YouTube for easy online accessibility of all the stakeholders.”

Taiwo advised that SEC, apex regulator of the Nigeria capital market should begin to think of ways of developing the market to meet global standards.

In his words “ We believe that compelling companies to use YouTube at AGM will also help the work of SEC easier in the area of monitoring of activities of proceedings at meetings. In addition, all intended foreign investors can have first hand information about the growing capital market via this device.”

The shareholders’ group further stated that the continuous delay on the appointment ministers would continue to affect the capital market as investors need to know the policy direction of the economy.

According to Taiwo “Both foreign and local investors will only invest in a market if they know the policy direction. You can see that immediately the new president for Nigeria emerged after the 2015 election, the stock market moved up and now the market has been going down because of the uncertainty caused by continued delay in the appointment of ministers and policies announcement.”

CSR: Vitafoam donates mattresses to Boko Haram victims

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s part of its Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) Vitafoam Nigeria Plc has brought succor to some victims of insurgents, Boko Haram by donating 100 luxurious mattresses and 100 pillows to the Internally Displaced People (IDPs) in Borno State through a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), The Oasis Association.

Explaining the rationale behind the donation, Vitafoam’s Group Managing Director, Mr Taiwo Adeniyi stated that the donation of mattresses and pillows will in a way alleviate the sufferings of the people displaced by the insurgents, called Boko Haram.

According to him, the donation is Vitafoam’s way of giving back to society. “Oasis contacted us to partner with us by assisting in this regard. We believe that we are just contributing our part. We have been supporting victims of many disasters over the years and we have consistently spent millions of Naira annually. The significance of our donation of mattresses and pillows is better appreciated against the essence of comfortable sleep as a necessary condition for thinking better. As a good corporate citizen, we shall continue to support the needy”, he said.

Adeniyi noted that Vitafoam’s operations in the Northern part was affected by the activities of Boko Haram thus leading to some loss of revenues. He however explained that government alone could not address the

level of destruction caused by the insurgents and called on other corporate bodies to assist the Internally Displaced Peoples without further delay. He thanked Borno State government for giving Vitafoam an opportunity to assist the victims.

Commenting on Vitafoam’s operations, Adeniyi assured the shareholders of increased value saying that all the company’s activities aimed at increasing shareholder value ultimately.

The President, Oasis Association, an NGO, Air Vice Marshal Olufemi Soewu explained that Oasis Association comprises professionals of various backgrounds driven by selfless desire to assist humanity. According to him, the Association had assisted many victims of disasters including those that suffered at Ikeja cantonment some years ago. He noted that annually, the NGO focuses on different sectors of the society. According to him, the group focused on health last year and assisted victims of tuberculosis while this year, the focus is internally displaced people. Soewu commended Vitafoam’s management for the quick response to the request to assist victims of insurgency in Borno State.

The Head, Borno State Liason Office, Lagos, Mrs Racheal Dunama Balami thanked the management of Vitafoam and promised to convey the gesture to the government of Borno State.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 29

Corporate Finance

CWG subscription business model now yielding fruits — OKERE

BY PETER EGWUATU

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he Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Computer Warehouse Group (CWG) Plc, Mr. Austin Okere has said that the company’s subscription business has begun to yield fruits. He said this during his speech at the 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the company held in Lagos.

According to Mr. Okere, the CWG subscription business model was conceived five years ago as the company needed to reinvent and transit to become a company that could predictably grow revenue and profit. From a small startup some 23years ago with seed capital of barely N160,000, CWG has grown to become one of Africa’s largest system integrators with revenues of more than $100m, 650 staff and operations across Nigeria and three other African countries, CWG had always been at the forefront of innovative information technology solutions that enables growth.

Mr. Okere noted that the opportunities that CWG has successfully pursued under its subscription business include providing a cloud solution for micro finance institutions in partnership with MTN (a solution dubbed MTN XaaS), building a cloud based solution for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to manage their businesses.

He noted that being certified by the CBN as a payment terminal service provider (PTSP) will enable the company to deepen its offering in the Point of Sale and Payment systems.

Recognising the need for automation and effective management of internally generated revenue, CWG has recently launched technology solutions that help State Governments to increase their internally generated revenue in the area of third party Insurance management system.

The company re-iterated its commitment to continue its focus in developing new lines of businesses, under the CWG2.0 model, which are better positioned to withstand macroeconomic shocks, especially those relating to foreign exchange movements. The new products include the flagship

CWG-SMERP, the cloud based On the company’s financial scorecard, the Acting Chairman noted that gross margin percentage grew by 5 per cent to 20 per cent from 19 per cent in 2013, while the financing costs and general operating costs declined by 43 per cent and 15 per cent respectively to N199.8million and N2.7billion as against Financing cost of N348.7million and a

Operating Expenses, OPEX of N3.2billion in 2013 respectively, showing better efficiency of our operations.

The company also finished with an improved cash position of over N1.5bn at the year end. Shareholders at the event were informed of the payment of the 2kobo dividends per unit share, to be made within 24 hours.

The meetings witnessed the election of Mr. Kunle Ayodeji as an Executive member of the Board in charge of

Finance and Operations. Mr. Ayodeji is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in the fields of banking, financial consulting and private equity.

He has held Executive positions in numerous organizations including KPMG and Abraaj Capital. In the same vein, three other shareholders were also elected as members of the audit committee, while Ernst and Young was reappointed the company ’s auditor for another year.

VISIT - From left: Prof. Abimbola Uzomah, the lead national expert on technical regulations of United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) National Quality Infrastructure project; UNIDO's expert on co-ordination, Mr Simeon Umukoro and representative of the Obi of Onitsha, Chief Chilo Asika, during a courtesy call by the UNIDO Group to the Obi of Onitsha in his palace in Onitsha, Anambra State recently.

Youth empowerment vital to growth of any country’s GDP — NYSC BOSS

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he Management of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has praised Heritage Bank for its commitment to youth empowerment, saying youth empowerment is vital to the development of any country’s Gross Domestic Product, GDP. Speaking during a courtesy visit by the NYSC top management team to the Heritage Bank headquarters in Lagos, the Scheme’s Director General, Brigadier –General Johnson Bamidele Olawunmi commended the bank, especially in the area of promotion of entrepreneurial culture among youth in the country.

According to him, to tackle the rate of unemployment and enhance the economic growth of any country, the youth population segment must be encouraged and supported to develop entrepreneurial skills

and self-reliance. This, he said, led to the establishment of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneur Development (SAED) by the Scheme as a way of channeling more concerted efforts to youth empowerment to achieve the desired results.

Brigadier General Olawunmi thanked Heritage Bank’s management for recently offering employment to thirty ex-corps members in addition to granting of loan facilities to many others to start their businesses under its SME Loan Scheme.

The NYSC helmsman also showed profound gratitude to the Bank for its strong support for the NYSC Hope Alive Initiative Scheme, a programme designed to provide financial assistance to help rehabilitate Corp members who suffer disabling injuries during their National Youth Service Programme.

He added that through constant support of the Bank and other well meaning individuals and corporate organisations, the NYSC Hope Alive Scheme has been able to offer a new ray of opportunity for disabled young Nigerians to pursue their dream of self realization.

Managing Director of Heritage Bank, Mr. Ifie Sekibo praised the NYSC for having the foresight and humanitarian spirit to set up the Hope Alive Initiative.

He said Heritage Bank’s gesture of supporting the Scheme was informed by its belief that the future wellbeing of the country would be better guaranteed if all well meaning Nigerians and other stakeholders teamed up with the Federal Government to empower the youths to create wealth.

Southern Sun set to boost bilateral investment opportunities

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o foster the growth of businesses in the country, Southern Sun Ikoyi has restated its commitment to boost bilateral investment opportunities in Nigeria.

The company disclosed this when it hosted members of the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce amongst other business executives to an informative networking evening aimed at attracting and increasing bilateral investment opportunities between Nigerian established businesses and the British Chamber of Commerce.

The enlightening affair which kicked off with a short lecture on ‘Life in the 21st Century’, was delivered by eminent speaker and Deputy President of the NigerianBritish Chamber of Commerce, Prince Dapo Adelegan. In his lecture, he challenged the need for Nigerian businesses to develop multiple streams of competences in order to better survive in today’s fast paced world.

He stressed the need for a reformation in Nigeria’s education sector to ensure a more robust curriculum, which will equip students with vocational skills and training needed for their growth and sustenance in today ’s vibrant global business markets. In addition to the short lecture, the networking session which attracted representatives of local businesses ranging from small and medium sized enterprises to large scale multinational businesses and Government Agencies also offered marketing intelligence tips on bilateral trading.

Highlighting the contributions of Southern Sun Ikoyi in sponsoring the interactive affair, Mark Loxley General Manager of the hotel stated that “as an established platform, we value our clients and as such, we take on every real opportunity to build new and to strengthen our existing relationships”. Mr. Loxley noted that by sponsoring the networking session for members of the NigerianBritish Chamber of Commerce, Southern Sun Ikoyi.

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30 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Business Photos

*From right: Tolulope Tope Awofeko, Head, Retail shops and franchise, Airtel Nigeria; Yetunde Jayesimi, Divisional Head, Telcoms, Keystone Bank; Uchenna Okwodu, Divisional Head, Bank wide operations, Keystone Bank; Femi Oshinlaja, Regional Operations Director, Lagos region, Airtel Nigeria; and Grace Henshaw, Airtel Nigeria; at the Airtel-Keystone collocation in Lagos

Chams Plc held the official launch of Confirmme at Loius Solomon Close, V I Lagos. From left: Mrs Jamealah Ayedun, MD, Credit, in a handshake with Mr Olufeni Williams, MD, Chams Plc, Mr Luqman Balogun, Deputy MD, Chams Plc and Mr Sadiq Abubakar, Nig Inter-Bank Settlement Systems Plc. Photo Shola Oyelese

*From right: Mr Osita Ede, Head, Mass Market Diamond Bank; winner of N100,000, Mrs Jamaba Ideozu; Aishah Ahmad, Head, Retail Directorate, Diamond Bank and Mr John Anyawu from KPMG during the Diamond Bank Xtra Mid-year draw in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Photo: Nwankpa Chijioke

*EECON Global held the launch of Top More drink at King Plaza, Adeniran Ogunsanya Street, Surulere Lagos. From left: Miss Uju Akpua, Branch Ambassador, Mr Paul Obanua, CEO, Greenfield Asset Ltd, Mr Nnamdi Nnachukwu,Chairman, EECON Global and Mr Izu Obi, CEO, Project Digital Ltd presenting the Top More drink.

Photo Shola Oyelese

*From right: Executive Director, Enterprise Risk Management, Heritage Banking Company Limited, Jude Monye; Executive Director, Ivory Banking, Heritage Banking Company Limited, Mrs. Mary Akpobome; Star Prize Winner, Heritage Bank Training School Graduating set 2015, Chioma Ekwonu; Managing Director, Heritage Banking Company Limited, Mr. Ifie Sekibo and Executive Director, Lagos and South-West Corporate Banking, Heritage Banking Limited, Ola Olabanjo, at the Valedictory Dinner in honour of Heritage Bank Training School Graduating set 2015 on Friday.

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*From left: Hon. Babajide Bello, Executive secretary, Mushin Local Government and Engr. Chris Onyekachi, MD, Total Value Integrated Service Nig, Ltd, developer of the market, during the Press briefing on Ladipo Market matters in Mushin recently. Photo: Bunmi Azeez

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 31

Homes & Housing

•Modern mini housing development

Benefits of investing in real estate Stories by YINKA KOLAWOLE, with agency reports

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helter is one of the most basic human needs everywhere in the world. The shortage of suitable accommodation in Africa is pushing up rent and property prices in several cities and towns across the continent, making it one of the hottest and most promising places in the world for real estate investment.

Smallstarter.com notes that the boom in Africa’s real estate market is a juicy opportunity for entrepreneurs to exploit and become successful property owners. The following are some of the reasons why investment in real estate is attractive.

Provides steady cash flow

Only very few investments can give the kind of leverage that real estate can

When you buy or build a house, and rent it out to tenants, that property starts to earn you rental income (monthly or yearly depending on the contract with your tenants). With the high demand for accommodation and growing inflation, rent prices are always on the rise.

Higher rent prices mean

more income for you, the landlord.

Compared to other investment options, the income from real estate is the most steady. For For instance, the amount of dividends paid by many companies often fluctuate and may not be paid every year. Bank savings (another form of investment) usually attract interest payments that may be steady but are often very small compared to the returns you can get from investing in real estate. Because the income from real estate investment is steady and predictable, you can plan better. Rental income is also great for people who are planning for retirement.

Usable as loan collateral Collateral is one of the biggest obstacles faced by entrepreneurs in obtaining a

Extra costs tto o consider when buying a house

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t can be a little confusing when it comes to identifying the tax charges involved in the process of securing your dream home.

Lamudi has prepared a guide to the extra costs property seekers should expect to pay when buying any kind of real estate. There are three main types of taxes that are required to be paid by property tax owners.

However, not all of these tax charges apply to every state in Nigeria.

Property registration tax: Property registration tax is real estate tax that you pay when registering your ownership title. This tax charge is based on your property’s worth at the time of purchase.

Personal income tax: Personal income tax is mandatory when you sell a property or when you receive rent from properties you own.

The percentage of tax you pay depends on the level of your income. However there is a 5 percent to 20 percent flat rate for people who earn as much as one million Naira per month.

Land use charge: Land use charge is like a kind of rent paid by property owners in Lagos Nigeria annually. This tax is more or less like rent you pay to the government for granting you your request to lease the land. Land use charges are calculated based on the value of the land.

How to register the

property: After you purchase a house, make sure you register it immediately so that you can officially transfer ownership to yourself. In order to do that, you will need to complete the following documents and send them to the land registry: Two pictures of the property; Survey plan; Form C; and Deed of assignment. Once this is done, the land registry will issue a document with a list of real estate taxes that you will need to pay. Once your property tax is paid, a certificate of occupancy will be given to you. Some states have their own laws on real estate taxes so be sure to stay up to date on the current charges by talking to your trusted real estate agent.

bank loan to start a new business or acquire property (such as a factory, machinery or equipment), especially in Africa. When banks ask for collateral, they want something that is equal to or greater in value to the loan amount you are asking for.

Banks usually prefer real estate as collateral because it is known to continually appreciate in value. Unlike your car which loses value every day, the value of real estate properties are more likely to grow. And compared to stocks (which some banks accept), the value of a property cannot vanish overnight. As a result, an investment in real estate means that you can use the properties as leverage to get a loan from a bank and other lenders. Only very few other investments can give the kind of leverage that real estate can.

High return on investment Real estate always grows in value, especially in developing regions like Africa where the property market is not as matured like in North America or Europe. Lagos, Nairobi and Luanda are some of the African cities that are currently rated as hot property markets. Due to the huge demand for shelter in many African cities, the returns on real estate investment are one of the highest in the world.

Although buying and selling of real estate should not be your main investment goal, it is your insurance that should you need to sell your property sometime in the future (for whatever reason), you will still make a handsome return. You can earn rent income for many years or you could sell the property. Either way, you make money and earn a profit on your real estate investment.

Low risk investment We have heard of stock market crashes and banks going bankrupt. Although real estate values often fall, it is not usually a very bad situation. In fact, even when property values fall, you would still earn rent income from the property. On the other hand, real estate is physical and tangible compared to stocks, bonds and many other intangible forms of investment. Both in times of high inflation, economic boom and bust, real estate investments remain robust and will most likely continue to earn you income. Very few other investment options can do the same.

RBS faces $13bn mortgage penalty

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.S. regulators have told Royal Bank of Scotland Group Plc it could pay as much as $13 billion if it loses a lawsuit over its handling of mortgage securities.

The U.S. Federal Housing Finance Agency, suing on behalf of government-owned lenders Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, made the estimate in a June 24 court filing in a related case in Manhattan federal court.

The prospect of a large U.S. fine comes as Chancellor George Osborne prepares to sell shares in RBS as early as September at a loss to the U.K. Treasury.

A settlement is expected to be “substantial” and could come this year, RBS Chief Executive Officer Ross McEwan has said. The $13 billion sum marks the first time the FHFA has attached a potential value to its case against RBS in U.S. District Court in New Haven, Connecticut, and outstrips previous estimates.

US mortgage rates hit year high

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he slow improvement in the US economy is nudging mortgage interest rates higher, with home finance giant Freddie Mac saying the average for a conventional 30-year mortgage rose to 4.08 percent this week, its high point for the year.

Mortgage giant Freddie Mac said the average rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose to 4.08 percent from 4.02 percent a week earlier. The rate on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages increased to 3.24 percent from 3.21 percent. Mortgage rates have increased in recent weeks, in the midst of the spring home buying season, as the economy has shown signs of improvement. A year ago, the average 30-year rate was 4.12 percent; the 15year average was 3.22 percent.

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32 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

E- Commmerce

Konga partners Audax to empower youths in ICT, celebrates anniversary

BY JONAH NWOKPOKU

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igeria’s online marketplace, Konga.com has kick-started its third year anniversary celebrations with the announcement that it will partner Audax Solutions to train the next generation of computer programmers at the Audax Code School.

Konga said the beneficiaries, young people aged 9 – 16, will be selected

by Audax from Public schools, orphanages and nongovernmental organisations.

Olatomiwa Akande, Konga’s Head of Public Relations who disclosed this in a statement noted that the initiative is in line with the company’s vision “to utilise the internet and mobile technologies to create a pan African platform that enables trade and commerce for millions of sellers and buyers.”

Konga’s third year anniversary celebrations tagged ‘#KongaBIG3’ is billed to hold all through the month of July.

Konga was launched as on online retail store in July, 2012 by Sim Shagaya in a small garage in Lagos. It started by selling beauty, personal and baby care products to online shoppers in Lagos. The company grew quickly with the rapid expansion of product categories and geographic reach. Today Konga delivers products to every state in Nigeria and now has a massive array of over 200,000 products listed for sale on its site.

According to Akande, “Konga has truly revolutionized the ecommerce industry in Nigeria with quality products at great prices, innovative offerings and unparalleled services to our customers across the country. The company has clinched so many brand awards recently and has grown rapidly with over 700 employees, offices in Lagos, South Africa and China. The company is also set to expand more this month by moving to a bigger warehouse.”

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Starting Jumia helped us build Nigeria’s largest delivery network — ACE

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UNDE Kehinde and E r c i n Eksin are the Founders and Managing Directors of African Courier Express, ACE. The duo were among the pioneers of ecommerce in Nigeria having been co-founders of Nigeria’s now largest online retailer, Jumia.com in a garage in Lagos, June, 2012. Jumia has since grown to become one of the biggest online retail brands in the country. In this interview, Kehinde and Eksin shared with JONAH NWOKPOKU how their experience building Nigeria’s biggest online brand played a significant role in inspiring and creating ACE, a solution that has revolutionised the Nigerian logistics industry.

Excerpts What is ACE? ACE is an acronym for African Courier Express. It is Nigeria’s largest direct to consumer delivery network.

We help retailers, banks, insurance companies and other businesses deliver goods directly to consumers all over Nigeria. The service also allows users to track packages real time as well as making provisions for payment collection at points of delivery.

Can you take me through the ACE’s process of delivery?

Tunde: Talking about the process, there are several ways one can leverage the platform. One is that our client manager will work with you to understand how your business works. And then they will help you to designate, to determine if you would like us to pick up from you or you would like to drop off for us to pick and deliver. If you prefer to drop off, once you get the items to our hub, we then initiate the tracking process so that you will get a tracking link and then one of our riders will start your package along the delivery route. What that means is that within Lagos, we are delivering the next day for items received from clients and across the country within three days.

And throughout the process, you will get status updates from us. And if you like, we can collect a payment for you at the point of delivery, reconcile it and remit back to you in a very neat format that you can use for your reporting purposes.

What is your scope of operation? Do you only deal with online retailers or both?

Ercin: We deal with individuals and businesses that need to move goods from one place to another.

And these clients are free to

•Tunde Kehinde

ship anything across Nigeria.

What inspired you into this line of business and what particular new solutions are you bringing to the table?

Tunde: We used to run Jumia Nigeria and we grew that brand from just five employees to about a few thousands by the time we left. And the greatest challenge we saw was, how do we get these items across this country in a deterministic fashion, so that you can tell your customer that his ‘order X’ is coming within one or two days? That was a great challenge and we tried to build our own delivery network in-house but even that was not enough to meet the demands. And we

What we are offering is next day delivery, pay on delivery in a world class fashion and real time technology that has not been brought to Nigeria before said: look, why not create a platform where the everyday Small and Medium Businesses or individuals can ship what they want, receive payment at point of delivery and track packages real time

•Ercin Eksin

in a way that delights the customer. And then we launched the ACE about a year and half ago and have since then shipped to over 200, 000 customers. We have presence in five cities across the country and we have collected payments for everyone, from small merchants selling in big marketplaces to offline giant retailers like Chicken Republic.

There are several new innovations we have brought to logistics in Nigeria. First, we have introduced our own delivery proprietary technology into the market, customised for the Nigerian consumer. What that means is that you can now tell at every point in the delivery process where your package starts. This is something that no one else is doing. Our riders have their own mobile application at the point of delivery when they update our system that an item has been delivered. We get a notification and our business merchant gets an alert and then the end customers can reconfirm that they received their package. At the same time, we are now the biggest direct to consumer payment collector for retail in this market. So what we allow our businesses to do is ship a package, receive a payment either through a POS or in cash and get it to our merchant in a timely fashion.

So what we are offering is next day delivery, pay on delivery in a world class fashion and real time technology that has not been brought to Nigeria before.

Funding is a great challenge for most ecommerce start-ups,

how did you get funding to embark on capital intensive business like logistics?

Ercin: It is true that in Nigeria there have not been exits in the start-up space in a large scale. So it’s true that people in general are sceptical to invest in startups. But what is also true is that if you have the right experience and team, including the right approach to a problem, there will be people willing to invest in your business. That was how we got our funding. This is because we built Jumia to successful level and people believed in us that we could make logistics successful as well.

Tunde: We have been fortunate to have investors from day one. One of our largest investors now is Interswitch. If you have a world class product, a world class team, it is always very likely that you will get investors easily looking to help you create something amazing. What we are looking to create is the largest delivery network across Africa, where anyone, Nigerian, or anyone from West or East Africa can ship what they want and when they want it affordably while tracking it real time.

Given your experience in the last two years in the logistics space, how would you assess the Nigerian logistics industry?

Ercin: E-commerce has become quite wide with the introduction of couple of players like Jumia and Konga style. The reason being that there is quite a need in Nigeria, because if you look at Lagos where you have about 17 million people, there are only three international quality shopping malls. And if you go outside of Lagos, the availability of goods even decreases further.

Therefore, e-commerce has become a good value proposition in Nigeria but the fact is the biggest challenge was always getting the goods from the warehouse to the end consumer. There were big players but their processes were not customised to the needs of the consumer and now there are small players but do not have the IT infrastructure and management structure in place to scale. So that was how ACE came to fill that gap because we solved the challenge in Jumia and we realised that we could also do that to help other players in e-commerce to help them scale.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 33

Business & Economy

BoI disburses N75.8m to off-grid solar home system providers

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he Bank of Industry (BoI) on Friday disbursed N75.8 million to GVE Projects Ltd,, and Arnergy Solar Ltd. to provide solar home systems to off-grid communities in six states. The states for the pilot phase for the take-off are, Anambra, Delta, Niger, Osun, Kaduna and Gombe. The Managing Director, BoI, Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa, while presenting cheques to the recipients, said the project was being implemented by the bank in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Olaoluwa said that UNDP which has 50 per cent stake in the project had contributed $1.6 billion.

He said that the project was divided into the Stand alone, which costs N31.6 million, and the Micro-Grid, which costs N44.2 million, making a total of N75.8 million.

Olaoluwa stressed that the project would involve the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure and local meter

manufacturers. He stated that the project would be operated on a Pay As You Go basis without any threat to existing electricity distribution companies.

“There are two major systems, the stand alone, which is for singular homes attached to their roofs, while the Micro-Grid would be used as a cluster for different homes

in the community. The choice whether to use the micro-grid or stand alone would depend on the type of settlement in the chosen communities, which has not less than 200 houses.

“The solar system when installed can power 4 LED lamps, Television, radio and other appliances, with an average daily cost of N50.

After the pilot phase has been

proven successful, we have a long term goal to provide 100,000 homes with the solar power systems within the next five years,“he said He said that the project would provide a long term solution to the problem of power generation, which ihe said was currently less than 4,000 megawatts.

The chief executive officer of the bank said the programme

was a more viable solution to rural-urban migration and poverty alleviation. A recipient of the loan, Mr Ifeanyi Orajaka, assured stakeholders that the quality of the project would be of international standard.

Orajaka said that a model of such project had been done by his company in a community in Rivers state in 2013.

NSC, NPA to negotiate tariffs at ports T

he Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has called for negotiation with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to achieve a reduction of tariffs at ports. The Executive Secretary of the NSC, Mr Hassan Bello, made the call in Lagos during a courtesy visit to NPA’s headquarters. Bello said the negotiation would involve dialogue and constant meetings with the authority to proffer solutions to tariff increase at the ports.

He commended the

authority for the introduction of the e-payment and eberthing systems which had been improving maritime services. The executive secretary said the e-payment system was in line with international standards.

“There is capital improvement in dredging of channels which indicates that the Nigerian maritime services are moving gradually to be the hub in West Africa. NPA should consider multiple access roads while contracting out access roads leading to the Lekki

Deep seaport, so that the constant gridlock happening in Apapa and Tin-Can ports will not persist at Lekki.

“Constant dredging of Nigerian waters has enabled bigger vessels to visit our ports,” the executive secretary said. Bello acknowledged that Nigerian ports had been having huge traffic of cargo coming in. He urged NPA to look into expansion of port access roads as well as roads linking various terminals and quay aprons in the terminals.

Bello said that the

continuous gridlock on the ports’ access roads had affected efficiency at the ports, adding that the NSC was interested in reduction of the costs of doing business at ports. He requested that NPA should provide offices where officials of the NSC could carry out some of their functions.

“To decongest the ports access road, we want to see 70 per cent of cargo moved through the off- dock terminals by promoting the Inland Container Depots.

34 —Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

People in Business

I do what I do because of passion — JOSEPH OBIGBARA

By Ebele Orakpo

because I am talking out of my own experience; it might not be someone else’s experience but I believe that money helps you and lack of it can be very frustrating in business.

Trust: I am aware that people just need to trust you with stuff but sometimes they don’t give you choice goods, the kind of goods that sell almost immediately. As a musician, I would say choice goods are like hit songs; some songs are evergreen, same thing with clothing.

There are some stuff that you buy and it is just there looking at you. Those are the kinds of clothes that people give you to help them market but those choice clothes are hardly given to you because they sell them fast. But if you have funds, you go for choice goods.

Clothing is like our generation; it is fast, trends change in months so if you don’t have funds, your success will be limited. You will succeed but to an extent.

M

r. Joseph Chijioke Obigbara a.k.a Joe Bling, is the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Lagosbased Jeans Factory, a fashion outfit. The graduate of Public Administration from the Anambra State Polytechnic worked briefly in the banking sector as a marketer before veering into fashion business. He spoke to Financial Vanguard recently on his business, the challenges and his dreams for the business.

Excerpts .

Banking to fashion: I do what I do because of the passion. I have always been a fashion person right from the age of five. As a matter of fact, I became a model in my school. My father was a fashion designer; I suppose I inherited that from him.

Living your dream is not easy because sometimes, people want you to go in a different direction. I am a graduate and I was expected to be in paid employment.

Although I worked in the bank briefly but I decided to follow my passion which is clothing.

Right now, I am retailing clothes for other brands but my aim is to have a clothing line which happens to be the name of my business, Jeans Factory.

Why Jeans Factory?

Jeans Factory is a brand name. I love jeans and casual wears generally. If you go to the streets, you will find out that a lot of people wear jeans; 80 out of 100 people on the street wear jeans and that is because very few people have white-collar jobs and dress corporately so I saw it as an opportunity. That was why I dived into that line of clothing.

Now, it does not mean that we deal in jeans only. We also sell other things like T-shirts, tops, shoes etc for both ladies and men, all branded Jeans Factory; it’s a vision which I believe, will grow with time.

So the essence is to take advantage of the disadvantage we have here since very few people wear corporate outfit.

Casual wears are not only cheap, they are things you want to wear anytime, you feel free and smart in them without having to look for electricity to iron them. So very soon, you will see clothes with that brand name.

because you determine how much you will pay for the goods. Doing business without funds can be very frustrating. I am talking out of experience. If you have little funds to start, you will go very far and your journey will be very fast unlike someone who doesn’t have funds. I stand to be corrected

Going into local production: For now, I bring in stuff from abroad but sometimes when I run out of goods, I source from the local markets.

Cost of production in Nigeria is high; power is not stable so it is cheaper to import than to produce. I am trusting that things will improve so if power is stable, why not? I would love to produce locally.

I don’t have issues with banning, I am not an advocate of importation but let us face reality; what are the things we have on ground?

Can we really produce?

Banning is good but...

Importation of textile is not even legal, but the law is not strictly enforced because our textile companies are not producing due to high cost of production.

The problem I have with Nigerians is that they always want a forceful change without counting the cost; they don’t look at the parameters, they just say yes, we want the dollar to be so so; how are you going to bring the dollar rate down?

What are the things you want to do to bring the dollar rate down?

You say you want change, how is the change going to come about?

There are things you need to put in place but we don’t want to do all that, we just want to ban. I don’t have issues with banning, I am not an advocate of importation but let us face reality.

*Mr. Joseph Obigbara...This is my dream and it is something I expect my children and grandchildren to live on even after I am gone This is my dream and it is something I expect my children and grandchildren to live on even after I am gone.

Initial cost: I started the business with five shirts only. I came to Lagos on holiday and a friend of mine said instead of just sitting doing nothing, I should try my hands on something. I collected five shirts and that kind of sparked off the dream of a boutique. That is why I said it is a vision, it grows. I have always liked clothing and looking good so I took the shirts and sold them easily.

That was how I started and here I am today! All I needed was that friend of mine who gave me a few shirts and it sparked off the vision. From there, I met a few people who also supported me.

Challenges: Joseph said paucity of funds is the major challenge facing the business.

"Funds play a very vital role in business. Some people say you don’t need money to do business, I agree to a certain extent but if you have money, it will help you get what you want at a specified price. If you have money, you do not need to beg anyone to give you goods, you get choice goods at your own price

What are the things we have on ground? Can we really produce? The essence of wanting to produce here is for you to patronize indigenous factories or products.

Now, for a businessman, the motive is to maximise profit.

If as a business person I produce here and I don’t make profit, I fold up.

There are other factors like acceptability, how patriotic are we? You find out that locally made products are more expensive than imported ones. For example, men’s shirts; the ones from Turkey are cheaper than those made locally which they tell you are hand-woven. What are we trying to achieve? We want to bridge the gap, to make affordable clothes but we find out that the ones we produce are more expensive, how are people going to buy?

If Shirt A is imported and sells for N6,000 while Shirt B is locally made and goes for N10,000 because of the cost of production, which one would you rather buy?

These are the factors I look at as an individual. The aim of this whole thing is about profit meaning if you can’t make profit, the business closes down.

You are not running a charity organisation, you are in the business to make money and when there is no profit, by the time you do it once or twice, you pack up.

Employees: Presently, I have one. I have had some experiences here with some of these young people; they are not focused. Today, they are here and tomorrow, they are out.

They want money they don’t work for. It is a challenge.

Someone comes in here today to work for you, she wants to be paid a huge sum of money and she is not ready to work to contribute to the growth of the company, all she wants is the money and you know, the level of immorality has worsened the case when it comes to having to employ young girls because they are distracted.

They work for a few months and they are gone because some guy comes in and gives them that amount of money you pay them in a month in just one day and they are like; 'if someone can give me this in a day, then what am I doing here?' So once they meet one, two or three guys, they are gone.

You also have some people who are focused who from here go to school and improve themselves.

C M Y K

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 35

Aviation

Ghana to host Africa's first aviation exhibition

*Participants at the Malaria No More Seminar in Lagos

ICAO, CAPSCA applaud Nigeria’s efforts at combating communicable diseases

By LAWANI MIKAIRU & DANIEL ETEGHE

T

he Head of Implementation Planning and Support-Safety Section, Air Navigation Bureau and CAPSCA Programme Global Coordinator, Mr. Micheil Vredeenburgh has applauded Nigeria for her effort in fighting the deadly communicable diseases in the country.

Speaking at a two-day visit to train stakeholders in the aviation industry, Mr. Vredeenburgh said that Nigeria performed very well during the outbreak of the deadly Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) adding that she demonstrated much efforts in ensuring public safety at the various airports across the country.

He added that the team’s visit is geared towards assessing Nigeria’s preparedness for eventualities and also as a training section.

“This programme is to implement the international health regulations as well as the ICAO standard and recommended practices which are related to public health emergences in the aviation sector”.

“This visit to Nigeria is part of the ICAO doggged show, Ebola aviation action plan and it is actually funded by the United Nations development programme under the global Ebola response muti partner trust fund” Vredeenburgh said.

Also speaking, Representative of World Health Organisation, Dr. Harry Okpata who commended the efforts of Nigerian government said that the visit by WHO and CAPSCA was to assist the country to overcome the challenges in implementation of ICAO-WHO regulations.

Dr. Okpata further noted

that WHO places great importance on the implementation of public health both in the aviation sector and the nation at large.

He said “International health has improve since CAPSCA started in 2007. We have made a lot of progress since then and we are happy seeing the implementation of public health across the world”.

In his address, the Director General , Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Captain

Usman Muktar said the previous assistant visit which were in 2009 and 2011 helped greatly in the curtailment of the Ebola virus that broke out in 2014.

He pointed that the assistant visits have helped in preventing the spread of communicable diseases at the nation’s airport adding that their visit will go a long way in entrenching a positive and enduring culture in Nigeria aviation sector and globally in curbing the spread of

communicable diseases in air travel.

He further thanked the team for coming, promising cooperation and assured of adherence by all other agencies in the sector.

Meanwhile, The Directors of Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, Engineer Saleh Dunoma and of Nigeria Airspace Management Agency, Mr. Ibrahim Abdusalam also assured the visiting team of compliance to the outcome of the assistance programme.

NCAA approves NAHCO’s new charges

By LAWANI MIKAIRU

T

he Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, has approved the recent cargo tariff increase being implemented by the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (nahco aviance).

NAHCO and clearing agents under the aegis of the Association of Nigeria Licenced Customs Agents (ANLCA) and the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) had agreed to a 20 percent tariff increment toward the middle of May. The increment had since taken effect.

In a letter addressed to the MD/CEO of nahco aviance, dated June 2, 2015, and signed by the NCAA’s Director General, Captain

Muhtar Usman, the NCAA said, “In line with powers conferred on the Authority

by Part 18.7.3.1 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) 2012, approval is hereby given to your company to increase the Import Handling Charge from N38.00/kg to N46.00/kg and the Courier Handling Charge from N45.00/kg to N54.00/kg as agreed with the stakeholders.”

While commending NAHCO for embarking on wide consultation with all stakeholders before embarking on the tariff increase, NCAA stated further that it “wishes to advise that Nahco Aviance should continue to ensure adequate consultations with

the stakeholders in line with the laid down guidelines and regulations guiding review or introduction of any charge.”

It further asked that NCAA be invited as an observer to future consultations on such a subject – matter.

In a meeting at the head office of NAHCO in Lagos, on May 15, 2015, the negotiating team of ANCLA led by the Vice – Chairman, Honourable Bola Ashiru – Balogun, with the Treasurer, Afolabi Azeez and the Financial Secretary, Obanla Alex said that they reached the agreement with NAHCO in the interest of the overall development of the industry and in realization of the fact that both sides were in this tough economic situation together.

Airbus to help China enter plane seat market amid Western delays

A

irbus is to help China set up production of aircraft seats and galleys in a move to ease shortages and delays that have threatened disruption to global aircraft production.

Planemakers including Airbus, Boeing and Embraer have been wrestling for more than a year with delayed

deliveries of aircraft seats or galleys from suppliers including France’s Zodiac Aerospace.

Its main rival, B/E Aerospace of the United States, has also been reported by U.S. media to have suffered some supply delays.

The decision to help foster

the development of seats and galleys in China was among a set of agreements signed during a visit to Toulouse by Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang on Thursday.

Airbus officials believe there are too few suppliers of cabin equipment to keep up with the rapid increases in aircraft production.

Ghana would play host to Africa’s first ever Air Expo, bringing together about 200 international exhibitors from the aviation industry across the world.

The air expo, which would run from October 12 to October 14, 2016, would be held under the auspices of the Ministry of Transport. It would also be used to send messages to the world that Africa and indeed Ghana is the obvious choice for the future of global aviation.

Speaking at the launch Mrs Dzifa Attivor, Minister of Transport, said the air expo would bring together the major players covering a wide profile in the realm of African aviation, including airport companies, airlines, regulators, airport management agencies to ground handling agencies.

“Ghana enjoys a stable political climate on the African continent and our objective is to create this awareness within the African and global aviation that an investment in the Ghanaian aviation sector will be mutually beneficial to both Ghana and investors,” she said.

Attivor said the African Air Expo 2016 would create an opportunity for the public and private sectors to collaborate on critical issues facing African aviation. She said the expo would provide Government with deeper insight into the road map for African Aviation and how Africa could strategically position itself within the aviation roadmap. She further noted that the expo would also allow Ghana to focus on critical areas within the aviation industry such as upgrading of airports infrastructure to meet the demands of the aviation industry on the continent.

Mr Ademola Oluseyi Onafowokan, Nigerian High C o m m i s s i o n e r , congratulated the government for the initiative, adding that the programme would become one of the best achievements of President John Dramani Mahama. He appealed to corporate institutions both local and international to assist Government to ensure the success of the programme.

36 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Tax Matters

e-Tax Pay the easy way to pay your tax Shippers demand new port order, to streamline activities

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he Shippers Association, Lagos State (SALS) has suggested a new port order for the Nigerian ports, to streamline maritime activities, in line with international standards.

The President of the association, Mr Jonathan Nicol, made the suggestion in Lagos.

“The greatest problem we have in this industry is that we always have people who are not fit in maritime administration because they are not groomed. You don’t really make progress if you actually meet people not on ground to continue with a system that will last for posterity. We need wellqualified individuals to man all the government agencies in the maritime industry,” Nicol told said.

He said that directors in maritime parastatals with requisite qualifications would assist the government to achieve its aims of making the maritime industry a hub in West Africa.

Nicol commended the organisers of the Nigerian Maritime Expo (NIMAREX), for their efforts in ensuring that government provides the industry with training vessels. The shipper said that the training vessels would expose the cadets to sea-time training, adding that Nigeria could afford to buy such vessels.

He said Nigerian cadets should complete the training package by using the nation’s ocean-going vessels which could also pick up bulk cargo or move petroleum products.

Nicol warned that a ‘league of half-trained seafarers’ was not healthy for the nation’s shipping community. The shipper, however, said that government was weary in putting down money to purchase training vessels.

According to him, this is because the previous training vessel which government bought was not properly managed.

Nicol said, “a single vessel can train more than 36 cadets, while a big vessel can train about 74 cadets”.

C M Y K

T

he tax system since medieval times has undergone reforms. These reforms, focused on taxpayers, are meant to increase service delivery and customer satisfaction. The FIRS has not been left behind as, for some time, reforms are ongoing to make its operations friendlier, convenient and conform to global best practices. In order to simplify payment methods, FIRS has designed a new payment platform called e-tax Pay. What is e-tax Pay? E-tax Pay is an online selfservice tax payment system whereby the taxpayers are given an opportunity to pay their taxes through their banks’ online payment portal.

It is an initiative put in place

by FIRS in collaboration with Nigerian Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) and approved collecting banks. This is to assist taxpayers to pay their taxes with maximum ease.

Taxpayers can do it themselves using the electronic service channels provided by their bankers.

(These service channels will include the banks internet banking, ATM and other mobile banking platforms.)

Conditions to meet before using the e-tax Pay platform: ?

You must have registered and obtained Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). ?

You must have an account with the bank. ?

You must have sufficient funds in the account to cover the tax liability/ transaction.

Steps to take to make payment through e-tax Pay platform Having satisfied the condition of having a registered TIN, an existing account and sufficient funds, then; ?

Select the service (etax Pay) from the list of services displayed on the bank self-service channel or request for this service from the bank branch. ?

Provide all the required information including the taxpayer‘s TIN. ?

Select the tax type (e.g. Company Income Tax, Pre-operation Levy, Value Added Tax, etc). ?

Enter the amount to be debited from the account provided. ?

Confirm that all the information provided are

correct and valid. ?

Submit the request.

When this process is completed the platform will notify FIRS online in realtime. Also, FIRS has online access to the tax portal to view transactions real time to know taxpayers that have made tax payments.

Taxes that can be paid using the e-tax pay channel You can use the e-tax Pay channel to pay all taxes/levies collected by the FIRS. They include: ?

Petroleum Profit Tax ?

Education Tax ?

Companies Income Tax ?

VAT ?

Personal Income Tax/ PAYE (Residents of FCT and non-Residents) ?

Withholding Tax ?

National Information Technology Levy ?

Capital Gains Tax

?

Pre-operation Levy ?

Late filing penalty ?

Stamp duties ?

Etc. Documentation required when you want to pay tax ?

Prepare the relevant tax returns ?

Compute tax payable or prepare remittance schedule (CIT/PAYE/WHT/ VAT) ?

Fill the relevant selfassessment forms Benefits of using e-tax Pay ?

P r o m o t e s transparency and boosts the taxpayer ’s confidence and trust in the tax system. ?

Promotes voluntary compliance. ?

It is convenient, saves time and compliance costs as taxpayers can do it themselves within the confine of their offices without going to the banking hall. ?

E-tax Pay solution

The e-tax Pay service is safe and secure. The platform leverages on the security measures provided by the service channels of the banks. The system through NIBSS validates taxpayers’ information against FIRS records and automatically notifies FIRS.

streamlines the process flow in tax remittance, with all banks collecting for FIRS using their various channels. ?

Banks integration to the NIBSS e-tax Pay is a veritable avenue for enabling all forms of tax payments/ collections particularly from the bank accounts of taxpayers to the designated bank accounts of FIRS. ?

This solution harmonizes online tax assessment with the e-tax Pay platform; which gives convenience of assessment and remittance. ?

NIBSS collection platform has been integrated to the system(s) of FIRS for data acquisition and online real-time notification of transactions. ?

The security of payment is intact as the platform leverages the robust security infrastructure of banks. ?

It makes account reconciliation easy for FIRS. ?

It enhances effective budgeting and forecasting due to the availability of adequate information on details of tax revenue realised over a period of time.

Security of the e-tax Pay platform The e-tax Pay service is safe and secure. The platform leverages on the security measures provided by the service channels of the banks.

The system through NIBSS validates taxpayers’ information against FIRS records and automatically notifies FIRS. … fast track your tax payment, use the e-tax Pay.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 37

The welcome change at NERC “The Commission is considering putting a ceiling on the amount of consumption that unmetered customers in a particular class could be billed by estimation in a particular month. This initiative is aimed at incentivising the distribution companies to accelerate their metering..”

PUNCH, June 3, 2015, p 32 erhaps plans were in progress to introduce a measure which equity and commonsense dictated all along, but the announcement so early in June 2015, by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, represents the sort of transformation which should have been introduced years ago. But, Dr Amadi, Chairman of NERC, who was recommended to President Jonathan by Professor Bart Nnaji, former Federal Minister for Power, and a heavy investor in one of the DISCOs, had all along cut the figure of an apologist for Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, and now the DISCOs. It does not require the intelligence of a space rocket scientist to understand that the DISCOs were sold to friends of the former administration, despite the efforts to make the biddings appear transparent. Amadi

P

could not therefore be expected to regulate tariffs in a manner that would jeopardize the investments of the friends of the government and his benefactor.

He is one fellow who would not bite the fingers that have fed him – unless pushed by more powerful forces. The change of government had forced Amadi and NERC to address a problem which had existed for more than twenty years, apparently, but not really, defying solution. That problem had been estimated billing by PHCN and now DISCOs. Hundreds of thousands of houses and even commercial buildings in Nigeria either have no metre or have metres which packed up years ago.

Permit me to present my experience as a case study.

The one in my house, in Lagos, was there before I was born in 1944 until recently when Eko Electricity Supply Company, EKEDC, mercifully provided a prepaid metre. The 70-plus years old metre packed up more than thirty years ago and since then it had been estimated billing. It is three bed-room bungalow, with a long veranda, kitchen, toilet, one air-conditioner, five fans, two refrigerators and one electric iron. Furthermore, no more than four people live there and everybody goes to work or school from morning

till early evening; then after eating and watching television, if there is power supply, retire to bed by 10.00pm to prepare for the next day. All lights, except one security light are turned off.

Yet, for 12 years, NEPA, then PHCN, sent bills almost the same as that of a three-storey building next door; with over 70 occupants and at least 12 air-conditioners – among other appliances. Apparently, they never sleep in that house because we can still hear them at 2 0r 3 am. All letters and visits to NEPA (PHCN) were of no avail until I sent a letter to the Managing Director, copied to the Minister of Power, late Chief Bola Ige, threatening to stop paying and

Hitherto, we carelessly leave lights, fans and air-conditioners on because it mattered not how much we use or waste.

With the prepaid, all the waste had stopped.

to resort to self-help. That brought temporary relief. To shorten the story, it became too obvious that NEPA, PHCN and now the DISCOs are aware they cheat those customers who are honourable enough to pay the unwarranted bills. Their staff connive with delinquent customers to over-estimate the bills of good customers in favour of those whose bills are deliberately understated. This became clear to me when I found out that a NEPA official rents one of the flats in the three-storey building!!!

This is perhaps the only country in the world, in which, millions of customers are paying trillions of naira every month and they don’t have proof of consumption of the service. And, it is perhaps the only country where such a situation could have persisted for thirty or more years. One of my readers, nearing ninety now, living in Abuja, had often told me that Nigerians are too docile. It is difficult to disagree. It took the increase of fuel price from N79 to N141 on 1st January 2012, to induce us to occupy Freedom Square in Ikeja, Lagos, and to force the Federal Government to scale down the pump price.

Meanwhile, a more outrageous assault on our pockets had persisted for decades without a response from us.

Although, the previously lethargic, or was it complaisant, NERC had apparently woken up to its responsibilities, the measure announced is not enough.

Nigerian power consumers must live up to their responsibilities. We must start demanding proof of service delivery from DISCOs as justification for the bills they bring to us. Certainly, if enough people simply refuse to pay unless the bills are substantiated, then the DISCOs will speed up metre delivery. One argument in favour of this absolutely legal self-help is that NERC cannot be relied upon to enforce its decisions; agency officials can easily be compromised by the DISCOs leaving us no better than when we started. After years of fighting what appeared like a losing battle with NEPA, PHCN and DISCO, I suddenly stumbled on a strategy that worked wonders. Today, I have a prepaid metre, which admittedly does not guarantee total equity, but, I no longer have to wait every month not knowing what the bill will read.

LAST LINE: If any official of a DISCO is reading this, let me inform them that it is actually in their own interest to install metres. Hitherto, we carelessly leave lights, fans and air-conditioners on because it mattered not how much we use or waste. With the pre-paid, all the waste had stopped.

Business & Economy

Huawei discloses benefits of T1 7.0

H

uawei, a global leader in ICT solutions and Android Smart-phone has disclosed the benefits of using its recently launched tablet, T1 7.0. A statement made available to FV, described the tablet as an original approach to balancing productivity, content creation and consumption in one portable tablet device with a 4100 mAh battery for more effective performance and staying power.

The statement noted that the product is equipped with an IPS HD screen in a 7-inch display, the rest of the specs including; a 5MP rear camera with LED flash, having a slim (8.5mm) metallic unibody build which is sleek and light, both fashionable and portable. “With a 4100mAh battery for lengthy browsing, streaming and gaming, the tablet is equipped with GPS and Wi-Fis capable of running for 12 hours of HD video

C M Y K

playback.”

Senior Marketing Manager, Huawei Technologies, Nigeria, Mr. Olaonipekun Okunowo, said: “We are really excited to launch the Huawei

T1. 7.0tablet, an outstanding media pad designed for those who want to enjoy unparalleled entertainment.

Its superior 7-inch IPS screen, 4G LTE connectivity

and exceptional camera makes it the perfect tablet at the most affordable price of N25,000.00 only for those on-the-go this summer.

“For content creativity and enhanced entertainment, the large, bright and crystal clear

Greece accuses lenders of terrorism

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reece’s Finance Minister accused international creditors of “terrorism” in an interview on Saturday, a day before Greeks vote in a referendum that could decide their country’s fate in the euro common currency. ``What they are doing to Greece has a name: terrorism,” Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis, was quoted as saying. It stated that the government implemented capital controls and ordered banks shuttered on Monday in an effort to prevent the collapse of the financial system following a breakdown in talks between Athens and its lenders.

The country, which is rapidly running out of money, missed a 1.7 billion dollar loan payment that was due to the International Monetary Fund on June 30. According to the statement, the same day the existing bailout programme

Greeks will go to the polls on Sunday in a referendum on a new bailout proposal that had been put forward by lenders in June

from European partners expired. Greeks will go to the polls on Sunday in a referendum on a new bailout proposal that had been put forward by lenders in June.

It is widely seen as a vote on whether the country should stay in the Eurozone but the Greek government led by Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras is urging a “no” vote. Greeks should overcome fear and blackmail by sending a message of democracy when they vote, Tsipras said in a rally on Friday. Opinion surveys show Greeks about evenly split on how they will vote.

Lenders’ proposals: Key

screen delivers a better pixel density providing a premium content viewing experience.

Either watching videos or reading magazines and ebooks, the Huawei T1 provides an immersive media consumption experience,” he said.

sticking points ·VAT (sales tax): Alexis Tsipras accepts a new threetier system, but wants to keep 30% discount on the Greek islands’ VAT rates. Lenders want the islands’ discounts scrapped ·Pensions: Ekas top-up grant for some 200,000 poorer pensioners will be phased out by 2020 - as demanded by lenders. But Mr Tsipras says no to immediate Ekas cut for the wealthiest 20% of Ekas recipients ·Defence: Mr Tsipras says reduce ceiling for military spending by •200m in 2016 and •400m in 2017. Lenders call for •400m reduction - no mention of •200m

38 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Micro-Finance

Pride micro finance partners with telecom companies to digitalise banking

P

ride Micro finance has digitalized mobile phone banking, an innovation that will see customers of the the microfinance institution carry out their banking using mobile phones as opposed to visiting the bank.

The new product dubbed the Pride Mobile will enable the bank’s customers to do a variety of transactions including balance inquiry, buying airtime, inter-account fund transfer, paying for utilities, depositing and withdrawing money from the account onto one’s mobile money account.

Unveiled recently at the Pride Nakawa branch, the service will also allow the customers to access their money anytime and anywhere.

IFC's $65 million syndicated loan aid microfinance lending in cambodia

I

FC, a member of the World Bank Group, has arranged a syndicated loan of $65 million to help Cambodia’s PRASAC Microfinance Institution Ltd. The country’s biggest microfinance provider – increase its lending to micro, small, and medium rural and agricultural enterprises, most of which are owned by women.

The syndication comprises $20 million each from Thai banks Kiatnakin Bank, Siam Commercial Bank, and TMB Bank Public Company Limited, and $5 million from ING Bank NV. This syndication supplements IFC’s $10 million ownaccount loan made in April to support PRASAC’s continued expansion of its micro loan portfolio, according to IFC. IFC’s syndicated lending program has mobilized over $50 billion from more than 500 financial institutions for over 1,000 projects in more than 110 emerging markets since the program was established in 1957. As of December 30, 2014, IFC’s syndicated loan portfolio under management totaled $15.4 billion.

C M Y K

Payment policy accounts for 70% decline in SME growth Stories Obuh

by Providence

T

he reason 70 percent Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) go into extinction at early stage has been attributed to payment policies by multinationals and blue chip companies.

Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Credit Administration (ICA), Prof.

Chris Onalo, made the attribution at a business luncheon in Lagos, stating, “We are campaigning that blue chip companies and multinationals including conglomerates that care to outsource any business to SMEs should come down a bit on their payment policy standard. If payment date is 30 days before, cut it to two weeks that SMEs invoice must be paid, so that they can fly.”

Onalo pointed out that there are also the problem of management; lack of capacity building; wrong preferences and poor attitude to settlement of SMEs invoice by conglomerate and multinationals.

He added that successful entrepreneurs should come down and talk to younger entrepreneurs to encourage them to draw inspiration from their effort.

“Those entrepreneurs who started with nothing but have become multinationals and conglomerates, have made it impossible for the young entrepreneurs to come down to them. They are afraid of

sustaining what they have established forgetting that they need to impact that strength and trait that enabled them to be successful businessmen today.

“Our national reorientation needs to be addressed. Most of the times those 70 per cent SMEs that go into extinction is as a result of many factors but chief among those factors is that SMEs are subjected to slow payment response to their invoices,” he said.

Continued, he said, for example, “if a blue chip company gives LPO to SME and they supply what you have given them LPO for, it means you have subjected that SME to your own internal policy, of don’t pay in less than one months time or don’t pay earlier than two months

70 per cent SMEs that go into extinction is as a result of many factors but chief among those factors is that SMEs are subjected to slow payment response to their invoices time and based on this you are frustrating the SME business because he/she has no other place to raise money to attend to other LPOs that

he has and even if he has temporary overdraft from his bank.

“This scenario can cause the SMEs to fold up because before you pay, other things would have eaten deep into his profit,” he said.

Speaking on consumer credit , he said that Nigeria is a big consumer market because of its population as a result of that credit thrives, both at individual and institutional level, saying, “We have not seen what constitute consumer credit yet. If you are taking credit far above your income, you have planned to become a distressful person because it is above your income.

“For the economy to stand firm, there must policy initiative that encourage the manufacturers of goods and services to produce in mass and use credit to sell continuously,” he said.

EVENT - From left, Relationship Manager, Retail Marketing, First Bank Limited, Shomolu, Mr. Kayode Osolaja, Managing Director, Mr. Michiel Buitelaar and Head, Corporate and Enterprise Sales, Mr. Chiekezi Dozie both of Smile Communications Nigeria Limited at a connected lifestyle event hosted by Smile Communications Nigeria Limited he on Tuesday in Lagos.

Nigeria ranks among countries with 5% women holding CEO positions

A

report from 2015 Global Women Entrepreneur Leaders Scorecard has shown that Nigeria is among the four countries with five percent women occupying Chief Executive Officer ’s (CEO) position. Meanwhile, this is a fallout of the Dell’s (providers of technology solutions) sixth annual Women’s Entrepreneur Network summit which ranks 31 countries based on their institutional and business environment measures.

The Scorecard ranks and rates opportunities and challenges faced by female entrepreneurs worldwide and the 31 countries surveyed account for 70 percent of the world’s female population.

The results show that gender-based differences still stifle the growth of women-

owned businesses worldwide.

The categories in the survey included the pipeline for female entrepreneurship and potential for high-growth women-owned businesses, estimating the number of jobs that will be created by womenowned businesses if they reach their growth potential.

The 70 percent of the

countries surveyed scored below 50 percent, showing a significant growth gap between female and maleowned businesses globally.

According to the report, “Women need more equal access to resources, those resources include education, internet access, bank accounts and training programs.

“Gender differences hold back entrepreneurs, in all the countries surveyed women are significantly less likely to know an entrepreneur. And that means they lack role models and essential connections to the entrepreneurial community, which lowers the likelihood they will start a business.

Man docked for allegedly defrauding MfB of N5m

A

businessman, Mufutau Gbadamosi, penultimate week, appeared before an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos for allegedly using forged documents to obtain a N5million loan from a Microfinance Bank (MfB).

The accused, 44, is facing a three-count charge of fraud, obtaining under false pretext and stealing.

Gbadamosi, pleaded not guilty to the threecount charge preferred against him.

But the Prosecutor, Insp. Richard Odigie, told the court that the accused committed the offences on May 26, 2013.

He said the accused defrauded the MfB situated at No. 11, Suberu Ogunsanya St, off Ayangburen Road, Ikorodu.

The prosecutor said that the accused presented fake landed property documents as collateral to obtain the N5million loan from the bank.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 39

International Business News

Canadian firm plans renewable energy project in Nigeria

C

anada based s c i e n c e company, NH3, plans a renewable energy project to tackle power challenge in Nigeria, its International President, Mr Robert Leth, has said. Leth disclosed this in Abuja on Friday while signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with Nigeria’s Traveri Group.

He said the project would commence on a pilot scale in Enugu and Nasarawa states.

Leth added that the company had entered into agreements with the Governments of both states and that the project would be funded by accessing 185 billion euros from European Union fund.

He explained that the EU

fund, Horizon 2020, was set aside to finance the fight against climate change globally.

The president explained that the firm’s decision to introduce renewable energy in Nigeria stemmed from its commitment to tackle the threats associated with global warming.

Mr Innocent Obende, Chief Executive Officer of Traveri NH3, said green technology which provided solutions to energy problems in developed nations of the world would be replicated in Nigeria.

He stated that with the MoU, the company would immediately begin the feasibility study as to how to fund and best deploy renewable energy to the generality of Nigerians.

He said the company

had signed similar memorandum with the government of Enugu and Nasarawa states where the project would soon commence on a pilot scale.

“Traveri NH3 is set to replicate the green energy technology provided in the United States in Nigeria as part of ways of finding solutions to the country ’s energy problems.

“With the technology in place, the firm will create employment, provide energy and manufacture fertiliser.

We have met with the technical committees of the states, we have entered into partnerships and we hope to focus on waste management, electricity generation, and real estate”, he said.

Telkom CEO, Maseko appears in court on car-fraud allegations

T

elkom SA SOC Ltd. Chief Executive Officer Sipho Maseko appeared in a Johannesburg court on Friday after being summoned to respond to allegations of trafficregulation fraud. Police started investigating Maseko last July after he was accused of cloning car license plates to avoid traffic fines.

Mabena Motshoane, who had bought a black Range Rover previously owned by Maseko, received about 30,000 rand ($2,448) in penalties linked to a newer model vehicle with the same license plate, he said at the time.

Maseko “appeared at the Wynberg Magistrate Court today for fraud,” South African Police Service spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Lungelo Dlamini said by e-mail, without giving further details of the case. “The three charges all relate to allegations regarding a previous motorvehicle license plate and include one of fraud and two related to the Road Traffic Act,” Telkom spokeswoman Jacqui O’Sullivan said by e-mail.

Maseko didn’t return a C M Y K

•Sipho Maseko phone call seeking comment. Maseko, a qualified lawyer, has been CEO of Telkom, South Africa’s biggest landline phone company, since April 2013.

He was previously chief operating officer of wireless operator Vodacom Group Ltd. and CEO of oil and gas company BP Plc in southern Africa.

Pretoria-based Telkom is about 40 percent owned by the South African government.

Telkom shares have quadrupled under Maseko’s leadership as the company cut costs and boosted revenue after a decline in landline use hurt the business. The operator returned to profit for the first time in three years in fiscal 2014, and said

last month it will pay its first dividend since 2011.

Maseko approached the court in May and received a summons to appear in court on June 5, Telkom said in the statement. That was delayed until today and the matter has been postponed until Sept. 4, the company said.

“Mr. Maseko vehemently denies any intention to defraud any person or organization and the necessary representations will be made to progress this matter,” Telkom said.

“Mr Maseko would like to address these claims and he now has the opportunity to do so, through the legal process.” The stock fell 3 percent to 60.57 rand at 3:22 p.m. in Johannesburg, valuing the company at 32 billion rand.

40 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 41

Economy

Bankers, financial analysts weary over forex regime

By EMEKA ANAETO, Economy Editor

F

ollowing multiple rules rolled out by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) last week, financial experts have classified the monetary policy regime and environment as unstable, uncertain and therefore hostile to businesses.

CBN had rolled out two circulars last week declaring some items ineligible for both its foreign exchange (forex) window and the alternative sources namely, the bureau de change (BDC) and export proceed windows, citing excessive pressure on foreign reserve and the need to stimulate local production of those items.

A top executive of a leading banking group in Nigeria told Vanguard on the heels of the last circular issued last week that the policy circular was one too many on just a single item in the monetary policy shelf. He suspected that the apex bank was actually in panic over the growing quantum of unmet forex demand which would eventually force another round of devaluation of the Naira.

Afrinvest Group, a leading investment house in Nigeria, in its reaction last weekend said ''we observe that some of the recent policies are characterized by seeming inconsistencies, conflicts, policy reversals'' adding that ''more clarifications that have trailed forex guidelines have considerably weakened the credibility of the CBN''.

According to the investment house, the feedback effect can be seen in heightened uncer-

tainty in the capital market and the economy. They said that real sector investors face increased uncertainties in

With no analysis or data on level of domestic selfsufficiency provided to justify the exclusion of the 41 items, there are no basis yet to project the CBN's next move on forex policy

•Godwin Emefiele, CBN Governor projecting cash-flows and deciding on long-term capital budgeting and short-term working capital plans.

They further stated that ''the CBN's recent decision to restrict some arbitrarily selected-items from obtaining forex

at all segments of the forex market has further placed the CBN's policy under scrutiny from domestic and international media. With no analysis or data on level of domestic self-sufficiency provided to justify the exclusion of the 41

items, there are no basis yet to project the CBN's next move on forex policy. This continues to be responsible for lack of clear direction for the market''. ''The financial market (equities and fixed income)'', according to them, ''is in dare need of a clear cut policy direction and stability. A lot of foreign investors appear to have taken to their heels leaving only the bandwagon local investors, who also have no clue of the impact of future monetary policy on their investment position, in the scene''.

Speaking in the same direction some executives of Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc in a radio program in Lagos last week lamented that even with the series of supplementary and additional circulars on the same issue the total outlook of the forex policy still left much room for clearity as it failed to address the effective date for the policy. They also noted that it would create considerable confusion with respect to transactions already commenced just before the new policy.

Over 200 Chinese firms eye investments in mining, agricultural sectors

By FAVOUR NNABUGWU

O

ver 200 Chinese companies may have expressed keen interest in the country ’s mining, agriculture, confectionary and pharmaceuticals sectors.

Speaking during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that facilitates the investments in Abuja last week Mrs. Uju Aisha Hassan-Baba, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council (NIPC), said the Council was willing to facilitate the setting up of Chinese companies’ businesses in Nigeria.

“We will also ensure that the investments are safe in Nigeria. We are willing to give them one-stop-shop services and other incentives that will ease their investment in the country”, she stated, adding that the Council expects them to come with the profile of their companies and what they have to offer to Nigeria.

*Job creation in all sectors, Q1, 2015

She further said ''We will be ready to open up our markets to them that is why the NIPC is involved in this so that we can see what kind of investors they are.”

“We are moving away from the oil sector and hoping that these investors can fit into these areas mentioned because some of these areas are the priority of the government especially the agricultural sector'' The investments, according to the leader of the Nigerian consortium coordinating the Chinese firms, Chiemeka Egbemena, are mainly companies involved in petroleum, iron and steel, agricultural and manufacturing sectors, as well as those operating in the free trade zone.

He stated that the Chinese Government is committed to encouraging and supporting Chinese companies’ investment in Nigeria, while continuing to support the country’s efforts at attracting foreign investment.

“The major significance is that we are falling in line with the new policy of

government to look elsewhere for the growth of our economy and that is in line with the desire of those companies that are coming to invest in the area where the world seem to be moving.”

Egbemena stated ''about 200 Chinese companies are coming to do business in Nigeria through this consortium. We are most interested in mining and agricultural and allied industry. These areas are our priorities''.

On his part, chairman of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry Limited (ABUCCI), Mr Joe Wenegieme, said that the Chinese investors would come into the Nigeria next month to explore potential investment opportunities in the country in a five-day trade fair.

“We have sent letters out to different state governments, local people and private organisations to come and meet with the investors so they can have the opportunity of discussing business with them.”

*New formal jobs in all cadre, Q1, 2015

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42 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

International Business News

Nigeria’s hospitality sector to grow 2.4% by Q4

BY JONAH NWOKPOKU

I

ndustrial activity in the nation’s travel and tourism sector is set to rise exponentially as fiscal remits stack for a 2.4 per cent increase before the end of the last quarter of 2015.

According to figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics, NBS the Nigerian economy which advanced 5.94 percent in the last quarter of 2014 has experienced an expansion rate of 3.96 per cent year-onyear in the first three months of 2015.

On the backdrop of this development, policy reforms geared towards increasing internally generated cash flow from service sectors such as the travel and tourism are under-going deliberations on the floor of the National Assembly.

As a result, greater foreign direct investments (FDI) in the sector, in spite of the currency exchange differential, are spurring the development of urgently needed infrastructure. In 2014 alone, monetary receipts from visitor exports accrued a total of N108.8 billion at 0.8 percent as the World Bank partners with domestic investors and other stakeholders in a $12 billion hotel construction deal.

With a cash base of N1.56 trillion as direct contributions to Gross Domestic Product, derived from the out-going financial year serving as leverage for the local investments, analysts predict three straight quarters of strategic growth by 8.3 percent for the hospitality industry; a figure that will hit a treble in ten years.

Highlighting the benefits of this dynamic for ecommerce, Marek Zmyslowski, Managing Director, Jovago Nigeria said, “We are excited that the industry is growing and promoting the hospitality industry through the quality of services we offer as an ecommerce business. It is what we are committed to doing at Jovago. At present, no other company in our sector is offering this brand promise and we are positive."

E

uropean bonds and stocks traded cautiously last Friday before a Greek referendum on EU-prescribed reforms that could determine the country’s future in the euro zone and which polls suggest could go either way.

Yields on top-rated German 10-year Bunds, the benchmark for European borrowing costs, fell as some investors chose to preserve their capital in low-yielding but relatively safe assets.

European stocks dipped and were set for the biggest weekly drop in two months, while the euro edged higher.

The moves were marginal, though, as investors did not want to position too heavily on either side. “The European market is frozen ahead of the Greek referendum,” said Markus Allenspach, head fixed income research at Julius Baer. Supporters of Greece’s bailout terms have taken a wafer-thin lead over the “No” vote backed by the leftist government, 48 hours before Sunday’s referendum, an opinion poll showed.

The poll by the respected ALCO institute for newspaper Ethnos put the “Yes” camp on 44.8 percent against 43.4 percent for “No”. But the lead was within the pollster ’s 3.1 percentage point margin of error, and 11.8 percent of respondents said they were still undecided. “Attention will be pinned on Greece and this is likely to see investors cautious as we head into the weekend ... Even if we get a Yes’ vote, this means the country must go back to the negotiation table and try to knock something together again,” IG market analyst Stan Shamu said.

“However, it’s a lot worse on the other side as a ‘No’ vote will present a host of uncertainties that could really rattle markets ... Either way, traders will need to buckle up for a tumultuous Monday.”

Many investors were lightening up positions and staying on the sidelines.

“It’s far from obvious which way it is going to go...and you definitely couldn’t position on the back of that at the moment,” said Thomas Laskey, an investment manager at Aberdeen Asset Management.

While Europe was fixated on Greece, a rout in Chinese stock markets continued.

Chinese markets, which had risen as much as 110 percent from November to a peak in June, have collapsed since June 12, losing more than 20 percent.

The Shanghai Composite Index was down 5.8 percent, while the CSI300 Index fell

SUBMISSION - From left: Patrick Thomas – Head Service, Sub-Sahara Africa, Siemens AG, Sean Manley – GM, Power Generation Siemens Nigeria, Akin Akinfemiwa - GCEO Forte Oil PLC, Onyeche Tifase – MD/CEO Siemens Ltd., Engr. Adeyemi Adenuga - MD Geregu Power PLC, Modupe Odusola - Legal & Investment Relations Forte Oil PLC At the submission of Performance bond and execution of other contractual terms after the payment of $83 Million for the Major Overhaul and Upgrade of the Geregu Power Plant in Kogi State to Siemens Germany.

European bonds, stocks on the defensive before tight Greek vote 5.4 percent. The dollar fell against a basket of currencies on Friday, hurt by softer-thanexpected U.S. employment data. The U.S. payrolls report showed employers hired 223,000 workers last month, fewer than the 230,000 increase forecast in a Reuters poll. The government also downgraded its reading on April and May job growth while wage growth remained subdued.

The dollar index was down 0.11 percent retreating from a four-week high of 96.422. The dollar was buying 122.93 yen, down slightly on the day.

“With liquidity thin and the Greek referendum coming up, not many would want to take large positions going into the weekend. The U.S. jobs

•Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras report has taken the wind out count stoked fears of of the sails for the dollar for oversupply. Brent crude the time being,” said Alvin LCOc1 was down 45 cents at Tan, currency strategist at $61.62 a barrel, while U.S. Societe Generale. Oil prices crude was $56.56, down 37 dropped as a rising U.S. rig cents.

Strike at East Africa’s biggest harbour disrupts regional trade

A

strike by Kenyan dock workers at the port of Mombasa disrupted trade for five neighboring countries that rely on East Africa’s biggest harbor for their shipments of goods, the Kenya Ports Authority said.

Members of the Dock Workers Union stopped working on Wednesday because of a dispute over salary deductions to pay for a national-health insurance program, Gichiri Ndua, the managing director of the

Mombasa-based authority, said in an e-mailed statement. The stoppage is unwarranted, he said.

“There is no trade dispute registered between the Dock Workers Union and Kenya Ports Authority,” Ndua said.

“The strike is therefore uncalled for and has caused undue disruption to port operations. It has adversely affected business in Kenya and the entire region.” Kenya is the world’s biggest exporter of black tea and

Mombasa hosts one of the world’s largest auctions of the leaves. The harbor serves landlocked countries including Uganda, Africa’s top shipper of coffee, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

A separate strike by dock workers over a new biometric time-management system ended on Monday. The stoppage barred hundreds of trucks from entering or leaving the port.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 43

Advertising & Promotions

No law to enforce penalty in pay-tv industry —-ACTV BOSS

develop the market for our self, develop a niche for our self because right now the tendency is also thriving in the industry, Nigeria with a population of about 170 million, 26 million households with television, the market is so huge. There is still a huge market that is not being addressed, we are here to capture that niche market and grow it.

By PRINCEWILL EKWUJURU

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of newly introduced African Cable Television, ACTV, a paytv platform, Mr. Godfrey Orkeh speaks on the challenges confronting the industry e and need for government to enact a legislation to penalize erring operators.

On Content development/ cost It varies depending on the content; some are more expensive than others because they have so much clout like the Discovery Channel. Content price varies from $1 to $100,000, there is no fixed price for content, depending on how desperate the owner wants to sell and how desperate the buyer is.

Types of content We buy two types of content in the industry. You either develop the raw content or you buy the linear content. The linear content is already a channel that someone has put together. The linear channel is a ready-made content; they determine the schedule, like the BBC, the content there is controlled by the BBC. The other aspect, which is the raw content, is for us to buy the materials and put them together.

Preventing hacking The issue we have regarding hackers, the solution we chose is that we are the first paid TV platform in Nigeria that is cardless. We have put away that element that can encourage hacking. Also the software we use is an active anti-virus, it actively monitors any form of tempering and we deal with it accordingly. We are not saying our platform is 100% tamper proof, but what we have done is to reduce it to the barest minimum and make hacking as difficult and challenging as it could be to deter them.

Challenges and legislation The number one challenge in the industry is that there is no regulation, NBC is doing its best but there is no Act of law that empowers it up to penalize. Before the last government handed over there was a bill that was being pushed, anti-competition bill like what we find in Europe

•Mr. Godfrey Orkeh

that nobody can own 100 per cent of an industry, if you grow beyond a particular size, for instance when Microsoft, Google among others grew beyond a certain size, they were stopped to allow room for other players. There is no such law right now in Nigeria. So it is a big barrier; it is only legislature that can change that. The other challenge that is affecting our business is foreign exchange (forex), 80 per cent of what we buy is international content: CNN, BBC, Aljazeera, we buy in dollars. Apart from these, other challenges can be dealt with.

However, as more players become part of the ecosystem of buying and distributing, the market will grow and there will be several players that will get access and customers will have more options to choose from and it is a good thing that such facility is not limited because it will enable Nigerians to benefit by have more options. This is good for the economy and the customers.

Innovation and growth Before the end of the year, we will be releasing one of our most innovative products into the market to change the entertainment world; we will be doing more of local content, funding local content and building local capacity and platforms for game shows to drive the industry. Nigeria is ripe to have its own movies that can com-

pete anywhere in the world just like what we have in the music industry today. We see ourselves meeting all the expectations of all Nigerians, in an affordable and consistent manner.

Intention to break into competition We knew there is a monopolistic tendency in the market.

The existing structure in the legislature of Nigeria allows a dominant player to take advantage of the environment. Before we came to the market, there was no pay TV offering PVR for the middle class and for you to

When Microsoft, Google among others grew beyond a certain size, they were stopped to allow room for other players.

There is no such law right now in Nigeria. So it is a big barrier; it is only legislation that can change that get decoder with PVR you have to cough out about N70, 000 but we are saying with N15, 000 you can have a PVR. In content wise there was a lot of exclusivity which is going to be difficult for one person to break. Beyond this, we will

Capacity We have the capacity, as it works, the technology does not require physical presence everywhere; we only need one physical presence to deliver the service. What we have done is to partner with dealers who make commitment by keeping data in the regions, installers and retailers. We have been recruiting nationwide; we are creating jobs and adding value to our customers. We cover the whole country and beyond in terms of the capability to receive our signals, so any customer anywhere in Nigeria can receive our signals.

Nigerians and foreign products Looking at the entertainment industry now, without Nigerian music, the party will not rock unlike what we had in the seventies and nineties. There is a shift and 40 to 50 per cent of Nigeria adults now watch Nigerian content. Can you believe that Channel TV after CNN in Nigeria has one of the highest ratings? And it is a Nigerian channel just because people are connected to the station. We believe the mindset is changing.

Target market Our offer is all-inclusive, addressed to all the demographic of our customer base, because we are pushing innovation and making it available at a very convenience price we are actually addressing all our customers. This is different from the traditional trend in the industry; we are targeting every member of the demographic groups in Nigeria, the high income earners to the middle income earners and to the lower earners. Looking at our subscription packages they are structured in that way, we will deliver across all of demographics. Our objective at the initial stage was targeted to the middle class but our experience has shown that the upper class and lower classes are also interested in our service.

Conoil wins poster award The ninth edition of the Poster awards organised at the instance of Outdoor Association of Nigeria, OAAN has ended with Conoil’s poster winning the highest laurel” The Grand poster award, with Toyota Yaris, Globacom, Starlite posters winning too.

Among others that won include: Pepsi, Golden Penny Spaghetti, Ariel and Panadol.

Speaking at the ceremony, President of the Association, Charles Chijide, said the place of outdoor advertising to the success of all marketing communications efforts has continued to be on the increase that explains why the award witnessed a haul of entries, the highest in a long while.

“By the close of the entries we had over 110 entries. We had less than 70 in the previous year.” Continuing, he stated, it has consistently been influenced by and has benefited tremendously from prevailing technological advancements.

NBC donates to Zaranzong community Nigerian Bottling Company, NBC Limited has donated an electricity transformer to the Zaranzong community in Jos, Plateau State.

NBC Limited handed over the transformer in a ceremony at the Zaranzong Community Centre, Jos East Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Managing Director, NBC Limited, Ben Langat said, “Partnering with our communities wherever we operate remains our top priority. The provision of a transformer to support power supply in Zaranzong Community is coming at a time when there is a high need for community development, entrepreneurial spirit and youth empowerment, which are key drivers for our community impact programs. Today, power supply remains a major society challenge and this gesture is a way of empowering the Zaranzong community. The success and development of communities we operate in, is our company success too.”

Uzo Odenigbo, Head of Public Affairs and Communications, NBC Limited, who was also present at the occasion, thanked the Leadership of Zaranzong Community Traditional Council and the Zaranzong Youth Association, adding that the Jos community and NBC Limited always enjoy a mutual and sustainable relationship in the community.

The collaboration and partnership between NBC Limited and communities in Jos span across community youth empowerment, educational support and water supply, including donation of furniture to schools in the community and provision of access to potable water amongst other value adding legacy projects.

C M Y K

44 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 Email:lesleba@lesleba.com, lesleba@gmail.com Blog page:www.lesleba.com/blog2 Website: www.lesleba.com Tel:0805 220 1997

maintaining their existing substantial investments in storage and supply infrastructure nationwide, while unserviced overheads and recurrent expenses would deepen their agony and ultimately cripple their businesses.

What shines through from the above narrative is the extreme good fortune of the banks, as heads or tails they win; clearly, therefore unless, this business model changes, the major oil companies, and genuine independent marketers may eventually opt for self preservation and, divest from the downstream fuel business.

Comparatively, however, the superior profitability of banks is obvious from the relatively bountiful 10-15% net surpluses generated annually, while, conversely, fuel marketers, will be lucky to post net returns of 2-3%. These divergent relative profit indices are incidentally also clearly reflected in the price earning ratios of the respective equities in both sectors.

Although abolition of price control would minimize interest charges on delayed payments, but in reality, banks profitability will still be sustained especially if shorter turnaround order cycles also lead to increase in loans sought by fuel marketers.

Evidently, the foregoing discussion does not validate the widely held view that marketers form the core cabal that allegedly opposes the abolition of subsidy. Indeed, it is more likely that genuine marketers, would prefer an unencumbered ambience, with prices which are determined by market forces, so that budgeted profit margins will be secure from the destabilising vagaries of a fuel subsidy regime, and marketers will escape the fatal damage that payment delay and Naira devaluation could inflict on their business.

Save the Naira, Save Nigerians

Fuel imports: The real cabal A

cursory survey of media reports on the downstream oil sector suggests that the prevailing popular belief is that a predatory cabal has a vice grip over the business of fuel importation.

There is concern, therefore, that this, presumably, vicious class of businessmen would do everything to ensure that refineries will never work, and that the subsidy regime would subsist, while fuel supply will continue to be carefully manipulated to regularly induce artificial scarcity so that bountiful profits can be harvested from the attendant sufferings and economic dislocation deliberately caused by the oil cabal.

It would probably be more difficult to find a contrary view to the above popular perception, than it is to find the proverbial needle in a haystack.

Besides, the widely reported ‘extreme’ annual subsidy values seem to also confirm that these fuel barons make a kill on the back of fellow Nigerians. Furthermore, despite several allegations that marketers collect billions of Naira as refund of subsidies on fuel supplies which were never delivered, no convictions have, surprisingly, so far resulted from EFCC’s tenuos efforts.

Nonetheless, it will be useful to examine the process of fuel importation more closely to actually identify the real beneficiaries in this business.

Indeed, the major oil marketers, Total, Mobil, Oando, Conoil, NNPC inclusive, and a few others have not been fingered for collecting subsidy with fake import papers. However, it may be more difficult to vouch for the innocence of the motley subset of hundreds of indigenous independent

marketers, as this class also accommodates the ubiquitous briefcase importer, who is clearly, a more footloose buccaneer.

Sadly, much to the chagrin of the public, the snail speed procedure for prosecuting financial crimes, may, postpone judgment day for fuel subsidy racketeers, while a judicial process that is allegedly compromised may actually also set the guilty free.

However, let us examine, hereafter, how profitable the fuel supply business is for bonafide importers, who have to borrow billions of dollars and Naira to finance their operations.

The available data from the National Bureau of Statistics indicates that fuel accounts for over 40% of Nigeria’s total foreign exchange expenditure on imports annually. Thus, the consolidated forex requirement for genuine importers will exceed $5bn annually.

Instructively, commercial banks would buy the required dollars, predominantly, from the Central Bank at the official rate and then add between 1-2% premium on their purchases before selling forex to importers; the banks could easily earn up to $100m from such simple exchange transactions.

However, the premium on each dollar sold may well exceed N10 per dollar, whenever dollar is relatively scarce and the parallel market exchange rate is over N220 while official rate remains below N200/$ as is currently the case. It is also not immediately obvious to non business persons, that the same banks lend fuel importers the Trillions of Naira which they subsequently exchange for dollars; presently, marketers would pay between 17-20%

interest for the Trillions of Naira borrowed for fuel imports.

Furthermore, importers would also require additional Naira loans to settle port, storage and other ancillary domestic charges. Thus, the already high consolidated cost of importation will still become further compounded with the other bank charges, such as COT, L/C establishment, loan administration, insurance and of course, the legal fees to perfect each contract.

Worse still, ultimately, the ‘now customary ’ extended

Evidently, the foregoing discussion does not validate the widely held view that marketers form the core cabal that allegedly opposes the abolition of subsidy delays preceding government’s release of subsidy refunds to marketers, will also lead to unexpected open-ended additional costs; thus, each cycle of import may attract well over 10% consolidated interest charges, from which banks may earn over N100bn additional income. Ultimately, the relatively modest 3-4% gross margins which marketers projected on shorter turnaround cycles for their imports will become

extensively breached because of delayed payments, while the ‘unexpected’ failure of the venture may become a major inducement for hyper stress for genuine fuel merchants.

Sadly, the woes of fuel importers could still be further compounded if the Naira exchange rate also depreciates against the dollar before subsidy claims are finally settled, especially if government foot drags or denies liability for delayed payments and the attendant exchange rate differentials.

Indeed, the recent 20% devaluation of the Naira may have inadvertently added over N200bn($1bn) to the annual cost of fuel import; thus, any additional delay in the settlement of the existing claims for payment delays and exchange rate differentials would in turn, further increase the attendant interest burden for marketers. Indeed, the longer it takes to settle the alleged current outstanding claims of almost N300bn, the heavier will be the ultimate debt burden to marketers particularly if the official dollar rate appreciates above N220 as per current speculation.

Expectedly, the reluctance of marketers to commit to fresh orders for fuel supply will inevitably induce domestic scarcity which will also trigger a spiral in the black market price of fuel.

Thus, with the constant abiding threat of negative profit, it is difficult to understand how any sane businessman would wish that such an oppressive business model should continue.

Nevertheless, without the steady cash flow from fuel marketing, the existing heavy debt obligations would ground the activities of marketers and increase the burden of

Business & Economy USAID spends $89m on projects in Sokoto, Bauchi states — Official

T

he U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has spent over 89 million dollars on the Targeted States High Impact Project (T-SHIP) in Sokoto and Bauchi states in the last six years, an official said. The Nigeria Mission Director of USAID, Mr Michael Har vey, made the fact known in Sokoto on Thursday at the End-ofC M Y K

Project Dissemination Meeting of the USAID sponsored T-SHIP. He said 45 million dollars was spent on T-SHIP project in Sokoto State from 2009 to 2015 and 44 million dollars spent in Bauchi State during the same period.

Harvey said that T-SHIP had made tremendous impact in reducing child and maternal mortality in the two states. He said although the

project would end within the month, USAID would partner the state governments to develop a new project for the benefit of the people. Gov. Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State said the state government planned to train 3,000 midwives to boost the manpower in the health sector in the 23 local government areas of the state.

Omoh Gabriel Babajide Komolafe Clara Nwachukwu Peter Egwuatu Yinka Kolawole Favour Nnabugwu Godwin Oritse Godfrey Bivbere Michael Eboh Franklin Alli Ifeyinwa Obi Rosemary Onuoha Nkiruka Nnorom CONTRIBUTORS Princewill Ekwujuru Jonah Nwokpoku Naomi Uzor Providence Obuh LAYOUT

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Group Business Editor Deputy Business Editor Energy Editor Asst. Business Editor Snr Bus. Correspondent Insurance Correspondent Maritime Correspondent Maritime Correspondent Energy Reporter Industry/Agric. Reporter Maritime Reporter Insurance Reporter Capital Market Reporter

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Media/Marketing E-Commerce Industry Micro Finance Graphics Department

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Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 —45

Born with sickle cell disorder, determined to survive not change. I kept telling myself that I must survive."

Marylyn’s determination to survive is not only by word of mouth but backed up with action.

She takes extra care and caution about every thing that could hinder her survival.

"I eat a lot of seafood, vegetables and fruits. I drink a lot of water and take multivitamins. I stay away from anything stressful, the only thing I do is to walk around but anything that has to do with jumping or running I avoid.

"As a matter of fact, I have routine drugs I take every day and I don't feel hungry before

By Gabriel Olawale

L

IVING with Sickle Cell Disorder could be really challenging and traumatic.

However, there are persons living with this disorder who have resolved to live a life that is not defined by their illness.

With sheer determination and They have been able to match the crisis in such a way that it does not hold them down.

One of such persons that has exhibited determination and resolutness is Marylyn Jacob, a 200 level student at the University of Ibadan.

Marylyn,21, who is the current Queen of Models of the Island Pageant Nigeria, despite losing some of her siblings to this disorder, has made up her mind to survive.

In her words: "No matter what, I must survive and live a fulfilled life." Marylyn is a survivor.

"My parents gave birth to eight children out of which three have sickle cell disease.

I lost one of my junior brothers to the disease while two of us are still coping with the crisis in my family.

“I have many friends living with this disorder, but the most painful thing is that most of them have died and is really painful."

Recalling the death of her younger brother, Marylyn said

• Marylyn Jacob the incident occurred while he was preparing for his JSS 3 exam. "My brilliant brother died at the age of 12 when he was reading for his exams. At that moment it became almost

too difficult for me to put myself together. I lost concentration because we were attending the same school.

While all this lasted, my determination to survive did

My parents gave birth to eight children out of which three have sickle cell disease. I lost one of my junior brothers to the disease while two of us are still coping with the crisis in my family

Hypertension management takes centre stage in Nigeria T

OWARDS ensuring the availability of affordable medicines for sustained management of hypertension among Nigerians, Aprovasc, a fixeddose combination treatment was recently introduced from the stable of Sanofi Nigeria.

Introduction of the new drug, combined with the continual support of establishing clinics for the better management of the disease, is in direct response to the healthcare needs of patients with hypertension in Nigeria.

Speaking at the formal launch in Lagos, General Manager, Sanofi Nigeria-Ghana, Abderrahmane Chakibi, stated: “By introducing a new antihypertensive treatment, Sanofi demonstrates its commitment to patients through improving access to high quality solutions in the field of hypertension management in Nigeria.

“This is another example of Sanofi’s engagement to always provide advanced and innovative treatments in response to patients’ specific needs with the highest efficacy and comfort.

“This unique combination is the result of years of development, clinical studies and safety proofing.”

“Through leveraging Aprovasc availability in Nigeria, Sanofi will continue to contribute to making the lives of Nigerian hypertensive patients

C M Y K

healthier,” Chakibi stated.

With the new antihypertensive medication, Sanofi now offers a wide range of treatment options for patients with hypertension.

In Nigeria, about 28.9 percent of the population has raised blood pressure

while about 82 percent are not aware of this disease condition. People with uncontrolled hypertension are exposed to many complications including stroke, heart attack, kidney failure and problems with vision.

L-R: Head of Medical and Regulatory, Sanofi Nigeria/Ghana, Dr. Inoussa Fiffen; Deputy Managing Director, Maayoit Healthcare Limited, Dr. Ademola Aderigbigbe; Chief Medical Director, LASUTH, Prof. Adewale Oke; at the official launch of new blood pressure control drug, Aprovasc by Sanofi Aventis at Oriental Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos, last week.

eat because is not good for my health."

Encouraging those living with SCD, Marylyn charged them not to allow anything to weigh them down.

"It's all about determination.

Don't let anything weigh you down. I have been there before and I am still there and making it. Definitely you also can make it. I have made up my mind to become someone great in life and I hope that someday I will definitely become great and useful for this country."

Speaking at the 2015 World Sickle Cell Day commemoration, the Chairman, Sickle Cell Foundation of Nigeria, Professor Olu Akinyanju said that with more funding for research, life can be more interesting for people living with the disorder.

"Nigeria needs to invest in research because all the intervention we are seeing today that is making life easier for sickle cell patients was as a result of the affection that America have for research.

Every year they are putting almost about that same amount into it which has being helping in making life easier for sickle cell patient. But here in Nigeria what we allocated to the whole health in budget is not even up to that amount."

Vitatree introduces new products

By Anozie Egole

I

N line with revolutionising the food supplement sector in Nigeria, Vitatree Nutritionals, makers of Vitatree products have introduced several products into the Nigerian market.

Speaking at the launch in Lagos, the President of Vitatree Nutritionals Mr Rockson Ogor said: “Vitatree products are totally natural and chemical free.

They are products coming from Canada, one of the best countries in the world where issues of regulation are quite stringent. Employment opportunities abound for massive employment generation for unemployed Nigerian youths through the Vitatree distributorship scheme,”he said.

In her keynote lecture, Vitatree’s Canadian Consultant, Naturopathic Doctor, Janine Bowring, said the Vitatree products came as a result of careful and painstaking years of research which has culminated in several testimonies from users in Canada, USA and North America.

Director-General of NAFDAC, Dr Paul Orhii said Vitatree has met all conditions for registration and that any product with the same quality would get NAFDAC support.

46—VANGUARD, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

By Charles Kumolu

Y

OUR emergence as the NGF chairman triggered mixed reactions, how do intend to reposition the group and perhaps redeem its image?

The forum had not been meeting as we used to in the past 14 years. Therefore, my first and perhaps most important task is to make sure we unite the forum and ensure that it remains united for the benefit of our respective states, the governors and Nigeria at large. I want to provide a leadership that gives all members a sense of belonging irrespective of political affiliations so as to ensure that the forum remains one indivisible body that is focused on good governance for all Nigerians.

I know some Nigerians are of the view that the forum is unnecessary, I believe that the forum is important because it is a platform where key national issues that affect various states and Nigeria at large are always being discussed. You know governors are key members of the National Economic Council. The Governors’ Forum has provided us a platform where we discuss issues before the National Economic Council meeting with the president.

We always brainstorm and share ideas on national issues such as economy, security and others. We also discuss how best we can carry out our responsibilities according to the needs of our people. Part of our plans is peer-review, whereby state governors exchange visits so as to see and learn how other states are executing their mandates. Through such visits, we will find ways of improving what we are doing in our various states.

This is also a way to see how we can provide better governance across Nigeria.

You led your other governors to President Muhammadu Buhari with a basket of requests which prominently among them is how to assist most insolvent states. Are the demands feasible in your estimation?

Yes, the response of President Buhari was very positive. We are hoping that in the next couple of days, we will make progress. As I have said in various fora we are all aware of the situation of Nigeria. This challenge is not limited to states, but also the Federal Government.

I know we are being accused of being reckless by some Nigerians, but it is not

C M Y K

•Yari: Buhari was not elected to look for scapegoats

Why Nigerians think we’re reckless — YARI, NGF CHAIRMAN •Cutting of own salaries by govs can’t solve financial crisis •Say NGF’ ll be repositioned ZAMFARA State governor, Alhaji Abdulazeez Yari, in this interview states that the decision of some state governors to reduce their salaries will make no difference in the financial situation of the states, adding that blocking the various channels of leakages is important in getting the economy back on track.

Yari, who is also the chairman of Nigeria Governors Forum, NGF, also spoke on other issues. only the state governments that owe salaries. I am aware that Federal Government cannot pay salary even. So what do you call Federal Government that gets 52% of monthly allocation? State governments share only 26%.

Let me say that some of these challenges are caused by economic imbalance in the system. And we are going to work with President Buhari to address it.

You and some of your colleagues from Kaduna, Niger, Kebbi and Katsina met in Kaduna on insecurity in the area. Going forward what should the people expect?

The issue of security is top

on the agenda of every state. That is why we are very serious and committed to it. As you can see also, since President Buhari was sworn in he has focused on security more than any other issue. That was why he visited Niger and Chad to seek their cooperation and support in the fight against Boko Haram.

Already we are seeing positive impact of the visit.

In that wise too, we have taken steps to proactively address security challenges in our various states. One of the steps is the meeting we had in Kaduna to address our domestic security challenges.

The meeting was at the instance of Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State.

It was a discussion that concerned security in five

I know some Nigerians are of the view that the forum is unnecessary, I believe that the forum is important because it is a platform where key national issues that affect various states and Nigeria at large are always being discussed

frontline states of Kaduna, Kastina, Kebbi, Niger and Zamfara. We have made series of requests on how we can tackle some of these challenges in the past administration without any positive response.

Our concern is a forest that cuts across the five states. And we are being proactive now so that the forest does turn to another Sambisa forest in the future. Our suggestion to Mr President is to order the military or through a joint operation, clear the forest so that it will no longer serve as safe haven for armed groups. We have cases of cattle rustlers and other criminals all hiding in that forest.

When we complained then to President Jonathan, we were asked what we will contribute and we agreed to provide funds and Federal Government agreed to provide equipment. But nothing was done. We were told that because of the commitment in the Northeast there were no equipment such as helicopters, and therefore surveillance could not be provided.

The situation is different today. Already, we have been assured that helicopters and other equipments would be provided for surveillance.

Even Nigeria Custom’s helicopter would also be used to trace the route of the criminals so as to clear them and make the place habitable for law abiding citizens of the states.

Governors have been accused of promoting profligacy. And many want the cost of governance to be reduced as to discourage financial recklessness. What is your take on it?

First and foremost, a government that is less than a month in office cannot be assessed. So you cannot say whether the government of President Buhari is simple or otherwise. It is really too early. However, I take it to be a compliment.

Nigerians are in a hurry and we require patience.

Sometimes, I hear some governors say they have cut their salary by 50% and I ask how much is the salary of a governor? May be N900, 000, therefore even if you are giving 70% of it that is just N700, 000. If this is multiplied by 48 month it is just about N30, 000, 000.

What can that amount of money do in an economy that needs billions of naira to run?

What we need to address is the huge leakages in the

Continues on page 47

VANGUARD, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015—47

Why Nigerians think we’re reckless — Yari, NGF chairman Continues from page 46 system. I can tell you categorically that once the right step is taken, which I am very optimistic, the leadership of President Buhari has the political will to take; Nigeria does not even need oil revenue to survive.

In the past 6 years 15 trillion has been spent out of the budget by MDAs and this is not backed by the National Assembly. Nigeria as a country has a budget of 4.

5trillion naira, while MDAs have 15 trillion naira. What kind of economy are we managing?

And the Federal Gover nment is comfortable with that situation.

To get the Nigerian economy back on track, all MDAs must follow due process in remittance of accruing revenue to national coffers. The Nigerian Constitution is very clear on it. It said that all monies should go to the consolidated account for sharing to all tiers of government. Why should an individual constitute him or herself as a parallel authority and spend Nigeria’s money anyhow?

We are happy with the pronouncement of President Buhari that even if a law will affect the Federal Gover nment negatively, he will implement it. Once we block all the leakages, the Nigerian economy will flourish again because trillions of naira spent outside the budget is not from oil. This means that once we block the leakages, Nigeria will be saving its oil revenue for rainy days. We will work with President Buhari to ensure that all MDAs fulfill their obligations in terms of revenue generation and remittance as required by law.

Do you share the view that the impasse in the National Assembly is slowing down governance?

The right person to answer the question is the Chairman, APC Governors Forum, Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo state. I C M Y K

am Chairman, Nigerian Governors Forum which have members from APC, PDP and APGA. Your state is among those that receive lean funds from the federation account. Given the current nationwide financial crisis, how do you intend to cope?

I know that Nigerians are concerned about Internally Generated Revenue of state governments. But states can only generate revenue when and where there is an enabling environment for such to happen. For instance, Lagos is an outstanding example of a state that has been able to generate revenue very well, but Lagos has been in existence for more than hundred years- it was a colonial capital, then federal capital and it has remained an economic hub to date. It has infrastructure provided and existing factories and companies that generate revenue for the state and federal government.

Therefore, you cannot compare Lagos with Zamfara state or many other states in terms of how each can generate revenue.

For instance, the Human

I can tell you categorically that once the right step is taken, which I am very optimistic, the leadership of President Buhari has the political will to take; Nigeria does not even need oil revenue to survive

•Yari Capital Index that says that a Nigerian lives on one dollar per day is not even tenable in Zamfara state.

I know that by average some people in Zamfara state live on less than one dollar a day. How do you tax that kind of person?

And it is the people that pay tax.

One upon a time, Zamfara Textiles situated in Gusau was employing over 15,000 workers, but it was closed down in 2002 and today the workers there are not up to 200. So if the textile mill were to be working, certainly Zamfara state would have been generating revenue for the state. We have about 27 ginneries in Zamfara state, but no enabling environment and required support from the federal government.

All the ginneries have been closed down. It is a huge challenge.

What should Zamfara

State people expect from you in your second term in office?

Let me say that despite the challenges of meager resources, we made meaningful progress in the provision of dividends of democracy to the people in my first tenure. It is on the account of our modest achievements and our promise to do more that the people of Zamfara State gave us the mandate to lead the state in the next four years. We have provided some infrastructure for the people in all the nooks and crannies of the state. We are happy with our modest achievements. We are also very aware that a lot needs to be done.

But we still have a long way to go in the area of education, health, youth empowerment and other areas. My focus now is to ensure that ongoing developmental projects that are about 70% to 80 % levels are completed. Also

during the campaign, we made a basket of promises and I believe it is doable.

We are going to start work in earnest to implement all government policies that will have direct and positive impact on the people. As you know the people are our primary constituency.

Now, that you have a central government which is being led by APC, it is envisaged that you will not have challenges funding your projects.

It is not about that. Even, Federal Government has funding challenges. I think what is important is synergy between the Federal and state governments to improve Nigeria’s economy. This is by ensuring that all leakages are blocked so that there will not be wastage in the system.

Through that we will have a full basket that will reach every one.

48 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 49

50 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 51

52 — Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015—53

I

By Sola Ogundipe & Gabriel Olawale

T was easy locating the storey building where Ruth Uche, the woman whose husband fled home when he learned she was expecting another set of twins after previously giving birth to two sets of twins, resides.

The dark-brown building at 32, Awori/Morica Street, Agege, Lagos stands out like a sore thumb, but locating the single room where she currently takes refuge with her three sets of twins is a bit more challenging.

Gaining access to the room situated at the back of the main building requires groping through a dark passage, made easier when you switch on your cellphone torch light.

An unpleasant odour emanates from the row of rooms built against the rear fence. The room you are looking for is on the ground floor.

It measures 8 feet by 8 feet and you almost mistake it for one of the toilets or bathrooms that flank it on the right and left.

Directly above is the bathroom for that floor, and water runs down Ruth's room whenever occupants of that floor are taking a bath.

When Vanguard finally located Ruth, she was deep in prayer. There was no electricity and it was pitch dark inside the room. It was also very hot.

Ruth immediately switches on her cellphone torch light and urged the reporter to take a seat on one of the two plastic chairs. As she prayed, she shed tears. She prayed for all women and mothers.

Her voice shook with emotion as she prayed. “May your husband not die prematurely, and may he not run away or abandon you. May you not be left alone with the burden of responsibilities for the whole house, and may you not run mad with worry.”

When she was through, and after the initial pleasantries,the reporter stated his mission and asked how she came to be in her current predicament.

Ruth and Emeka were married in 2009. As a new couple in the village, they had a brilliant plan and part of it was to move out of the village in search of greener pasture.

They both hail from Abia state but different communities.

When Emeka first came to Lagos, he put up with his brother when the latter got married, Emeka was forced to struggle to rent his own room.

It was then he asked Ruth to come over in 2007.

History of twins When they began having children shortly thereafter, Ruth and Emeka knew they C M Y K

L-R: Ruth and her three sets of twins: holding Daniel and Daniella. Flanking her are Joyce (left), John (2nd left), Goodnews (2nd right), Goodness (right). Pic: Gabriel Olawale

Ruth Uche speaks:

I will take my runaway husband back

zSays she almost starved to death during pregnancy z To meet Ambode tomorrow had a history of twins in their families. Emeka is a twin, Ruth's uncle is a father of twins twice in a row and there are many other twins in her husband's family.

“When I first began to see my menses, it was irregular and my mother thought perhaps I had been raped or something and she punished me. Later, when she took me to the hospital, the doctor told her I was intact and that I had not been raped, but predicted that in future I would have twins.”

Husband's nature Even though he absconded, Ruth describes her husband as caring. “Although his daily work is not helping matters because he spends more than he earns. He is a factory worker where they produce attachments and weave-on. So as a factory worker the little he is paid cannot solve the family problems.

“He helped me with the house work. During my pregnancy when one child rested on my chest and it hurt to the extent that I as unable to fetch water, he helped me out with that. And he is a good cook. He goes to the market to buy things and helps out with the cooking whenever I am too heavy during pregnancy.”

The last pregnancy When She got pregnant the third time, Ruth said she felt so bad because there was no

one to assist her. “Even during the previous pregnancy, there was no assistance. So when I got pregnant I was sad and annoyed, I quickly approached my neighbor who is a mid-wife to help me flush it out, but she told me that the oath of office she took would not allow her do so. She prevailed on me not to abort. But along the line I was scared. The suffering was much, but thank to God today they are both alive.”

My ordeal Narrating her ordeal, Ruth said that her inability to meet up with the upkeep of her children facilitated her decision to dash out the children to state government rather than watching them dying.

“I teach in one of the private schools nearby where I earn N10,000 per month, but in this same school I have four children and they are to pay 10,000 each for school fees but because I teach there, the school slashed the fees to N5,000 per child which in total is N20,000.

So as they pay my salary with on hand, they collect it back with the other. I often beg them to give me N1,000 for my tithe which I do not fail to pay in the church where I worship because that one is most important to me.”

She recalled that it was a few months to her delivery that things got worse as she was unable to pay her children's

school fees and hunger become the order of the day.

“Last term, I was unable to pay their school fees. Iam even owing for this term because the money I had was used for my own health.”

In her narration, Ruth explained that her first set of twins, Goodness and Goodnews, both girls aged six, are currently Nursery 2. The second set, John and Joyce, is four years old are in KG 2 while the third set of twins, named Daniel and Daniella,

arrived last month.

Further, Ruth said , things were hard earlier, but after Emeka disappeared, she was really hit by the stress of coping alone. “Finding food to eat became very tough.

There were occasions, I went from house to house in this neighborhood looking for assistance basically for something to eat, sometimes we would have rice but no pepper. The little money I realized from my place of work still goes back to the institution that I work for.”

Changed by stress

I teach in one of the private schools nearby where I earn N10,000 per month, but in this same school I have four children and they are to pay 10,000 each for school fees but because I teach there, the school slashed the fees to N5,000 per child which in total is N20,000.

Ruth who expressed contentment about her children said despite the distress they still serve as vessels of encouragement for her.

“Their character at times amazes me. In the morning, even when I am reluctant to pray, they challenge me and ask, “Mummy, let us pray. So we would sing and they will pray, they will even name all the people in this compound.

God, don’t let this or that person die. Don’t let my mummy and daddy die. When they are about to leave for school in the morning, they will bring out anointing oil I anoint them with sign of cross.”

Ruth admits that the challenges, have changed her.

Continues on page 58

54—Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Anambra indigenes fault FG on relocation of insurgents

L

AGOS—THE Regent, an association of Anambra indigenes in Lagos, has faulted the Federal Government on the reported transfer of Boko Haram inmates to a prison Ekwulobia/ Ezenifite in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.

In a statement by Dr. Eric Obele, the group appealed to government to relocate the Boko Haram suspects, as they would not want anything that will threaten the peace in state.

It said the call for relocation becomes necessary as sons and daughters of Anambra State find the presence of the inmates unacceptable.

C M Y K

How peace'll return to APC—BoT Member z...lists what Buhari, APC expect from Saraki, Dogara

By Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North

A

member of All Progressives Congress, APC, Board of Trustees, BoT, Alhaji Gambo Magaji, yesterday, gave hints of what the party is doing to restore peace and move the country forward.

Magaji explained that despite the seeming breach of the party ’s position regarding the National Assembly election, it had decided to accept the leaders that emerged from the controversial election for peace to reign.

The BoT member said that the party took the decision in the hope that Senate President, Bukola Saraki and House of Representatives Speaker, Yakubu Dogara, would reciprocate the gesture and abide by the

position of the party that brought them to power.

Magaji told Vanguard in an exclusive interview in Abuja, yesterday, that both men had since been acknowledged and accepted by the party and that they were expected to toe the party ’s line as a mark of respect and recognition of the party.

He said: “It is our belief that since the party did not question the emergence of Saraki and Dogara by formally writing to them as Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives, they should understand that they have been accepted by party.”

Expectation He said: “What is expected from them is that they would also show respect to the party and begin to toe its line so as

not to give the impression that they are working against the party that brought them to power.

“The position of the party is that the leadership of NASS should do what the party wants and nothing more, if they are loyal members of APC. That is the minimum expectation,” Magaji added.

On President Buhari, Tinubu

Magaji said it was not true that Buhari and Tinubu had quarrelled over the crisis in the party, pointing out that the absence of the former Lagos State Governor from the National Executive Council, NEC, meeting of the party last Friday did not suggest a rift between the two party leaders.

He nonetheless denied claims that Buhari was in

support of what happened in NASS, saying that the President was not involved in any way having made it clear from the outset that he was ready to work with anyone who emerged from the legislature.

Magaji said: “To the best of my knowledge, there is no quarrel between Buhari and Tinubu.

“The fact that the former governor did not come for NEC should not be taken to mean that he has a quarrel with the President or the party.

“The party's NEC is not like the BoT and anyone who is not a member can decide whether or not to attend.”

It will be recalled that the emergence of the NASS leadership had caused uproar across the party lines and threatened to split it into factions.

However, the BoT member said many committees were working to broker peace.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 55

NASS: Southwest APC 'll not recognise Saraki, Dogara —STATE CHAIRMEN

By Dapo Akinrefon, Gbenga Oke & Daud Olatunji

L

AGOS—CHAIRMEN of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the Southwest have vowed not to recognise the emergence of Senate President, Bukola Saraki and Speaker, House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara until the crisis revolving around the National Assembly contest is sufficiently

resolved by the party.

Chairman of the Ekiti State chapter of the party, Chief Jide Awe disclosed this yesterday as his counterpart in Oyo State, Chief Akin Oke insisted that the two presiding officers of the National Assembly should apologise to the party to avoid compounding their problems.

The duo spoke in the wake of assertions that the Southwest

caucus of the party may have decided to boycott activities of the party upon the crisis provoked by the failure of Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila to win the leadership contest and the subsequent resistance to his emergence as Majority Leader of the House.

Speaking on the development, Awe said: “I was at the NEC meeting but I did not go and salute the Senate President and the Speaker.

Dunoma, in the This is because statement, assured staff there are issues working at the airport, of on ground that management’s support as have not been they operated in the midst resolved by the leadership of the of security challenges.

The FAAN chief urged party. This crisis to be them to keep supporting has the federal government, resolved. We are especially the armed a third party to agencies that were using this crisis and a third party their facilities. not “I urge FAAN workers to should remain committed to successful contribute to an operations as the Maiduguri e x i s t i n g Airport opens for commercial problem, rather operations,” he was quoted as he should look for solutions.” saying in the statement."

Awe noted that the chairmen of

Maiduguri Airport to commence commercial operations —FAAN

L

AGOS—THE Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, Mr Saleh Dunoma, says the just re-opened Maiduguri International Airport is now free for commercial operations.

This is contained in a statement issued by the FAAN’s General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Mr Yakubu Dati, in Lagos, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN,

yesterday.

The statement assured Nigerians and airport customers that security had been beefed up within and outside the airport for passengers’ safety.

NAN reports that operations at the airport was suspended in December 2014.

Subsequently, the joint military task force took over the airport following a raid on nearby military units by Boko Haram.

Twin bomb explosions rock Jos

By Marie-Therese Nanlong

J

OS – Many people were feared dead last night in twin bomb explosions that rocked Jos, the Plateau state capital One eye witness said “the first explosion went off at about 9:14pm at a Bauchi road shopping complex a few meters to the Bauchi park and

University of Jos. The witness added that a Hilux van belonging to Sheikh Jingir and other private vehicles were conveying the dead and injured to hospitals in the city.

The second explosion was said to have occurred close to the popular Yan Taya mosque where Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir was having his Ramadan tafsir.

Another resident, Godwin Okoko told Vanguard, that “Twin bomb

blasts occurred in Jos North LGA killing several people even though casualty figure has not been ascertained. The first bomb exploded at Yan taya mosque during prayers near Hajiya Talatu Mai Abinchi a popular eating spot in Bauchi road.”

The twin explosions occurred hours after a suicide bomber killed at least six people in a church in Potiskum in Yobe State.

The police in the state could not be reached for comments at the time of publishing this report.

the party from the region unanimously resolved not to congratulate Senator Saraki and Speaker Dogara.

His words: “All the Southwest chairmen have decided to allow the party solve the problems with the National Assembly before we start congratulating the winners.

When probed to know if the chairmen from the zone were acting the script of a national leader of the party, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, he said, “that is what they will think but they are wrong. People do not know the workings of the APC. For Asiwaju (Tinubu) not to be at the NEC meeting means that he is not a member.

Also speaking on the issue, chairman of the party in Oyo state, Chief Oke said the state chairmen of the party believe very strongly that party supremacy should be respected.

He also maintained that the state chairmen of the party visited the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki to ensure that he respects the position of the party.

Okowa lauded for appointing Uduaghan, Williams as commissioners

A

SABA—THE Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Crusaders group has congratulated the newly appointed commissioners by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State.

In a statement issued in Asaba, through its President, Prince Suru Diden, it expressed confidence in the ability of Hon. Vincent Uduaghan and Rev. Omatsola Williams to effectively handle the affairs of the ministries assigned them.

Diden said he was confident that they would deploy their wealth of experience garnered over the years to further deepen democracy in the state.

He further thanked the governor for finding the duo worthy of being appointed commissioners.

Yero left only N228m, not N8bn account on May 29, —EL-RUFAI claimed at a function, that central 2015. This represents the

By Luka Binniyat

K

ADUNA—KADUNA State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai yesterday denied claims by immediate past Kaduna State government under Alhaji Ramalan Yero that it left behind, N8 billion in cash for El Rufai’s incoming government.

Former Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Ambassador Nuhu Bajoga, who served under Yero, had last week

Yero had left N8 billion in the coffers of the statae government. He also decried the annulment of proposed Kaduna State University of Science and Technology, Kafanchan by Governor El Rufai.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna yesterday, Governor ElRufai’s spokesman, Samuel Aruwan debunked Bajoga’s claims.

Aruwan said: “The Kaduna State Government had N228,333,371.67 in its

working capital that could be spent.

“All other items in the bank balance are committed funds, and are not available to be spent by government. These include counterpart and reserve funds clearly earmarked for specific purposes such as Millennium Development Goals, MDGs, Subsidy Re-investment Empowerment Programme SURE-PandStatePensions,and as such cannot be termed available funds by any responsible government."

Offensive Twitter comments not from Buhari's daughter —PRESIDENCY “Tweets by this handle are therefore not her own

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

B U J A — PRESIDENCY has denied any affinity between Zahra, the daughter of President Muhammadu Buahri and an alleged comment from a Twitter handle, @Zahra_Buhari, to some foreign leaders which were not complimentary.

In a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the president on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, yesterday, the presidency said that the

president’s daughter never made any such tweets.

The statement added that the Twitter handle, though once existed, had been hijacked by hackers who have used it for inordinate purposes.

While giving Zahra’s Twitter handle, the presidency stated that even the wife of the president, Aisha and other of his children were not currently on the social media platforms, distancing them from any messages that may be sent in their names.

The statement read thus: “The attention of the Presi-

dency has been drawn to unauthorized and unexpected Tweets by an account falsely linked to Zahra Buhari, one of the daughters of President Muhammadu Buhari.

“Following enquiries by a few foreign missions on the raging online controversy about unsavory comments against some foreign leaders purportedly made by her, we wish to state categorically that Zahra is indeed on Twitter but the offending handle@Zahra_Buharihasstopped being her own for a long time sinceitwascompromisedbyhackers."

and should be disregarded and considered as the work of hackers seeking to cause mischief between this country and other friendly states.

“Zahra’s authentic handle is @ZmBuhari and any handle other than this on Twitter should be considered as fake and therefore fraudulent.

“It is also pertinent to state at this point that neither the wife of the President, Mrs. Aisha Buhari nor the other children are presently on Twitter, Facebook or the various other platforms.

56 — VANGUARD, MONDAY, JULY 6 , 2015

Kerry urges Iran to make ‘hard choices’

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Greeks vote ‘No’ to Europe G

REEKS voted over whelmingly “No” yesterday in a historic bailout referendum, partial results showed, defying warnings from across Europe that rejecting new austerity terms for fresh financial aid would set their country on a path out of the euro. With nearly a fifth of the votes counted, official figures showed 60.4 percent of Greeks on course to reject a bailout offer from creditors that was the official issue of the ballot.

The figures showed the Yes vote drew 40.1 percent. An official projection of the final result is expected at 1800 GMT (1400 EDT). Officials from the Greek government, which had argued that a ‘No’ vote would strengthen its hand to secure a better deal from international creditors after months of wrangling, immediately said they would try to restart talks with European partners. “The negotiations which will start must be concluded very soon, even within 48 hours,” government spokesman Gabriel Sakellaridis told Greek television.” We will un-

Jubilant Greek voters celebrate the rejection of European austeriry proposal dertake every effort to seal it soon.” Euclid Tsakalotos, the government’s chief negotiator said talks could restart as early as yesterday evening.

Many of Athens’ partners have warned over the past week that a ‘No’ vote would mean cutting bridges with Europe and driving Greece’s crippled financial system into outright bankruptcy, dramatically worsening the country’s 5-year-long depression. If confirmed, the result would also deliver a hammer blow to

the European Union’s grand single currency project. Intended to be permanent and unbreakable when it was created 15 years ago, the euro zone could now be on the point of losing its first member with the risk of further unraveling to come. “I believe such a result can be used as a strong negotiating tool so that Europeans can understand that we are not a colony,” said Nefeli Dimou, a 23-year-old student in Athens.

Greek banks, which have been closed all

week and rationing withdrawals from cash machines, are expected to run out of money within days unless the European Central Bank provides an emergency lifeline. Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis is due to meet top Greek bankers later on Sunday and State Minister Nikos Pappas, one of Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras’s closest aides, said it was “absolutely necessary” to restore liquidity to the banking system now that the vote is over.

Pope Francis begins tour of S/America P OPE Francis headed to Quito Sunday to begin his first South American trip in two years, for an eight-day tour of Ecuador, Bolivia and Paraguay highlighting the plight of the poor on his home continent.

The 78-year-old pontiff from Argentina, the first pope from his “beloved South America,” left Rome early Sunday and was due to land in Ecuador’s capital Quito at 3:00 pm.

Francis’s last visit to South America was a triumphant trip to Brazil in 2013 that culminated with some three million people gathering in Rio de Janeiro along Copacabana beach for a mass at the end of a Catholic youth festival.

The Catholic Church has about 1.2 billion followers globally, and Latin America represents the biggest portion of that population. But the region has seen declining numbers as more people turn to Protestant churches.

“I want to bear witness to the joy of the Gospel and bring God’s tender-

C M Y K

•Pope Francis ness and care,” the pope said before leaving for South America.

“Especially children in need, the elderly, the sick,

the imprisoned, the poor, those who are victims of this throwaway culture.”

Francis, who is the first Jesuit pope, will give a Holy Mass to be broadcast in eight languages today. The papal visit coincides with a time of political tension in Ecuador.

Embattled President Rafael Correa, an avowed admirer of Francis who describes himself as a “humanist Catholic of the left,” has faced weeks of protests demanding his resignation over his policies, including an initiative to increase inheritance taxes.

US, coalition intensify airstrikes of Raqqa

U

.S.-led coalition air craft unleashed a wave of airstrikes targeting the Islamic State group’s stronghold of Raqqa in eastern Syria in what the coalition said Sunday was one of its most sustained aerial operations carried out in Syria to date.

IS said at least 10 peo-

ple were killed and many others wounded in the attacks which activists said triggered successive explosions that shook the city and created panic among residents. The U.S.-led coalition often targets ISheld towns and cities in Syria, but the overnight strikes on Raqqa were rare in their intensity.

In a statement, the coalition said it carried out 18 airstrikes throughout Raqqa province, destroying a number of IS vehicles and 16 bridges.

An earlier statement said the attacks also destroyed vital IS-controlled structures and transit routes in Syria.

N Iranian nuclear agreement is possible this week if Iran makes the “hard choices” necessary, but if not, the United States remains ready to walk away from the negotiations, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said yesterday.

Speaking after his third meeting of the day with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, Kerry said they had made “genuine progress” in talks over the last few days but “several of the most difficult issues” remain. “If hard choices get made in the next couple of days, made quickly, we could get an agreement this week, but if they are not made we will not,” he said outside the hotel where talks between Iran, the United States and five other powers are being held.

Foreign ministers from

•Obama Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia were expected to begin arriving on Sunday evening as the major powers make a major push to meet Tuesday’s deadline for a final agreement to end the 12-yearold dispute. Kerry said negotiators were still aiming for that deadline, but other diplomats have said the talks could slip to July 9, the date by which the Obama administration must submit a deal to Congress in order to get an expedited, 30-day review.

British Royals christen Princess Charlotte in intimate ceremony

B

RITAIN’s Princess Charlotte was christened in an intimate ceremony yesterday, in the royal baby’s second public appearance since her birth nine weeks ago to proud parents Prince William and Kate.

Just 21 guests attended the low-key baptism held inside the 16th century Church of St Mary Magdalene on the country estate of the baby’s great-grandmother Queen Elizabeth II, as crowds waited outside.

Overnight campers and early risers, many wearing Union Jackprinted clothing, had braved wet weather to get a prime spot on the paddock outside the church at Sandringham estate in Norfolk, eastern England, ahead of the 4:30 pm (1530 GMT) service.

William and Kate walked to the service from a nearby royal residence with Charlotte and her brother George, giv-

Kate Middleton, Prince William, Prince George, and Princess Charlotte arrive at the christening ceremony ing the public their second glimpse of the little princess since she appeared on the steps of a London hospital after her birth on May 2.

Charlotte arrived for the ceremony in a vintage pram used by Queen Elizabeth for her own children in the past, pushed by her mother Kate, who wore an elegant cream outfit and hat.

Syria army storms ISIS last base on Lebanon border

S

YRIAN government forces backed by fighters from Lebanon’s Hezbollah entered the town of Zabadani yesterday in a bid to take the last rebel-held bastion along the Lebanese border.

Elsewhere, at least 30 people, including six civilians, were killed in some of the heaviest USled air strikes yet on the Islamic State (IS) group in Syria.

And the jihadist group carried out a double car bomb attack that killed 11 people in northwestern Hasakeh city, where regime forces have been fighting to fend off an IS assault.

Syrian state television and Hezbollah’s AlManar station announced the advance into Zabadani on Sunday, a day after a major operation against it began.

VANGUARD, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 57

Egypt threatens legal action over ‘false’ reports

E

Burundi rejects UN mediator B

URUNDI’s ruling party and its allies on Sunday told a United Nations mediator to step down, just two weeks after he was sent to help resolve the central African nation’s political crisis.

Senegal’s Abdoulaye Bathily was told to “ resign from his post

because he seriously lacked respect for the country’s sovereignty,” a spokesman for the ruling CNDD-FDD party, Gelase-Daniel Ndabirabe, told AFP. Bathily was sent to Burundi last month to replace UN mediator Said Djinnit, an Algerian diplomat, who quit after

being branded as too progovernment by civil society activists.

According to Ndabirabe, the new envoy angered the government side by allegedly having failed to present himself to the authorities, including President Pierre Nkurunziza, and to have instead focused on

Members of the Burundian National Independent Electoral Commission count votes for the parliamentary elections at a polling station near Musaga neighbourhood in capital Bujumbura.

meeting diplomats and the opposition.

Another party allied to the CNDD-FDD also complained of what it said was an “international conspiracy” in support of the opposition and civil society groups, who have been behind weeks of deadly protests in the country.

The crisis in Burundi surrounds President Nkurunziza’s bid to stand for a third consecutive five-year term in office, a move branded by opponents as unconstitutional and a violation of a peace deal that brought an end to years of civil war.

More than 70 people have been killed in more than two months of protests and a failed coup attempt, with almost 144,000 refugees fleeing into neighbouring nations. There are fears the current crisis could plunge the impoverished, landlocked country back into civil war.

Tunisia declares state of emergency after beach attack the second such rampage the museum attack and

A

state of emergency, granting special powers to the police and army, was in force for three years until March 2014, following longtime secular president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali’s ouster in a 2011 revolution.

Apart from allowing the barring of strike action, the measure allows the authorities to carry out raids on homes at any time of the day and to keep tabs on the media.

Independent political analyst Selim Kharrat questioned the timing of Essebsi’s announcement, eight days after the beach attack, and warned that a state of emergency “could become an excellent tool of repression”.

An aide to Tunisia’s prime minister said on Saturday that several officials, including the Sousse governor and those from the assailant’s home town and where he studied, as well as police officers, had been sacked.

“Just as there have been security failures, there have also been political failures,” the premier’s communications adviser

Dhafer Neji told AFP. Tunisia has faced a postrevolution surge in jihadist violence in which dozens of police and soldiers have been killed.

The beach shooting was

in three months, after another jihadist attack at the National Bardo Museum in Tunis on March 18 that killed 21 tourists and a policeman.

Tunisia had already stepped up security after

announced in the wake of the beach killings that it would deploy armed guards on beaches and close 80 mosques suspected of fanning Islamist extremism.

S/Sudan to probe rape claims

S

OUTH Sudan’s government said today it was investigating United Nations allegations that its troops raped then burnt girls alive inside their homes during recent fighting in the country’s civil war.

In a report released on Tuesday, rights investigators from the UN mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) said the 18-month-old war had seen “new brutality and intensity”, including gang rape, torture and gruesome murders.

“We have read the report and these egregious acts could only have been carried out by egregious individuals.

Our army punishes with impunity any acts that deviate from the normal conducts of war,” South Sudan’s military spokesman Philip Aguer said in a statement.

GYPT may take legal action against journalists who report “false” military death tolls in jihadist attacks that contradict official statements, if a new antiterrorism law is approved, officials said yesterday.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who called for tougher laws following the assassination of his top prosecutor last week, is expected to approve the law within days. The cabinet has already approved the draft law.

The country ’s press syndicate has denounced the law, saying it amounted to censorship.

Article 33 of the draft law, published in several Egyptian newspapers, stipulates a minimum twoyear sentence for “ reporting false information on terrorist attacks that contradicts official statements”. The law also opens up the possibility of deportation and house arrest.

Two officials, including Justice Minister Ahmed al-Zind, confirmed the wording of the law. Zind said the law was prompted in part by coverage of Islamic State group attacks on Egyptian soldiers in the Sinai Peninsula on July 1.

Suspected Congo Ebola victims test negative for the virus

S

IX hunters in the Democratic Republic of Congo who fell sick and were suspected to have Ebola have tested negative for the virus, the health minister said on Saturday.

The government and World Health Organization investigated a possible outbreak about 270 km (170 miles) northeast of the capital when the hunters developed Ebola-like symptoms after eating an antelope that appeared to be sick when they killed it.

The symptoms included diarrhea, vomiting and bloody urine. Four of the hunters have died.

“All of the samples are negative ... There is not an Ebola epidemic,” Health Minister Felix Kabange said in an interview on state-run television.

Congo has had more outbreaks of the disease than any other country.

Since December 2013, the virus has killed more than 11,200 people in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea in the worst Ebola epidemic on record.

Botched circumcision kills 14 boys in S. Africa

T

RADITIONAL circumcision ceremonies in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, where the rite-ofpassage practice is common, have left 14 boys dead and 141 injured this year, local authorities said yesterday.

Many of the injured teens suffered from “dehydration, wounds, pneumonia, aseptic penis and gangrene” Sizwe Kupelo, spokesman for the health ministry in the Eastern Cape province told AFP. “Fourteen died and 141

•Jacob Zuma are in various hospitals,” he said. Nine patients are waiting for a penis transplant — a procedure requested more and more after the first successful transplant was performed in the country last year on another botched circumcision victim.

B/Faso rape: Father of victim hires lawyer Saturday that one had UN mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on parade “Our army was created to protect our women and children, ensure their safety and their dignity. If in fact the UN report is accurate, then the few individuals responsible for these heinous crimes have brought shame to the SPLA and that will not be tolerated,” he added.

The spokesman said “anyone deemed to have

participated in these horrific crimes will be brought to justice before our court system and before God.” Civil war began in December 2013 when President Salva Kiir accused his former deputy Riek Machar of planning a coup, setting off a cycle of retaliatory killings that have split the poverty-stricken, landlocked country along ethnic lines.

T

HE father of a 5-yearold girl who a French prosecutor says was sexually abused by a French soldier has hired a lawyer and vowed yesterday to follow legal proceedings closely to ensure justice is done.

Allegations against two soldiers were disclosed last week.

They were suspended and arrested upon their return to France, though the Paris p r o s e c u t o r s ’ spokeswoman said

been released without charges.

It is the second case of alleged sexual abuse of minors by French soldiers in Africa to surface in recent months. French officials have insisted that the Burkina Faso case is unrelated to one in Central African Republic.

In that case, officials have come under heavy criticism for not following up quickly on initial allegations.

58—Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

I will take my runaway husband back Continues from page 53 “It is not easy at all. What you are seeing is not my true image. I have changed a lot.

Two years ago when I traveled to the village, my father burst into tears when he saw me.

He could not believe it was me his daughter.

“The stress on me is too much and taking care of these children is not easy. At times I will be feeding one, another will be crying and their senior ones will be fighting or dragging things. The neighbors knows me as a shouter, because there are some occasion I will be outside washing cloth while they will be inside causing problem, sometimes I will beat them up and later draw them closer to beg them.

Rude shock Looking back, Ruth said she it was a rude shock when her husband absconded.

Recounting the ordeal, she recalled that prior to the fateful day, his character changed. He became irritable and hostile, complaining and shouting at every one especially the children.

Nothing pleased him again.

She begged him, and thinking it was all over, the next day, he dressed up and left for work as usual but failed to return at the usual time.

Alarmed, she called him on the phone to find out what was the problem. “When I called him, he picked the call and said enhen? Then he assured me that he was coming home, but when I did not see him for two days. I became worried, and started calling his friends Since then I didn’t hear from him again until after I went to the Governor’s office at Alausa in Ikeja.

When we came back from the Governor ’s office, he called me and said he saw us in the media and asked why I went to that length? I said I had no other option, but then he again assured that he would soon come back home.

I told him the government is about to claim his children.

I tried to speak fear into him to make him have a change of heart to return home but since that day he called, I have not heard from him again. If he is ready to come back, I will take him back.”

Government intervention Ruth's visit to the Office of the Lagos state Governor made headlines last week.

When asked what she achieved from the effort, Ruth

C M Y K

did not mince words. “The Lagos State government has promised to help me. I was told to go back home and put in writing whatever I want to be done for me take it back to the Governor's office on Tuesday, July 7, 2015, with my children's photographs.

“For the sake of God, first, I am pleading that my children be given scholarships for their education because sourcing for their school fees is hard for me. Second, this place I am staying is not good. It is surrounded by toilets and a bathroom is right above.

Third, I pray the government helps me set up a business such as provision or food stuff that will not stress these children.

Neighbour’s position One of her neighbours, Mr. Samuel Ameh, a senior tenant and friend of the family hinted to Vanguard on how Ruth and her family have been struggling to survive. “I was here before they packed in, I live upstairs. When they came in, I didn’t know them but since my wife is from the Eastern part of the country, they became friends. Also my wife is a midwife.

“When they came, Ruth already had the first set of twins. But when she got pregnant again, this last one particularly, I noticed many things, particularly feeding. It was very hard. One day when she was coming to my house, she fell down mid-way. I thank God I was around, and I quickly rushed to her aid. I asked what the problem was and she said it was hunger.

She had not eaten, so we ran around and help her get something to eat.

“As a man, I foresee it that her husband would run away.

The man did not prepare for twins, their house rent is due and feeding as well became difficult since there was nobody to render assistance.

“I believe it is due to the burden that made him run away because he is a nice person and responsible as well. For the man that left, the only thing I see is hardship.

If that man had money, he would be willing to take care of his family.

Ameh recalled that when Emeka ran away, his plan was that his wife who is a midwife, would take Ruth's delivery, but she was on duty on the day Ruth put to bed.

“Those babies were only a few weeks old when they were being given milk formula.

Even when the milk finished, there wasnt money to buy more.”

PRE-AGM: From left; Mrs Comfort Nwankwo, Vice Chairperson, Nigerian Institute of Public Relation (NIPR) Lagos State Chapter; Mr Joseph Okonmah, Chairman, Lagos State Chapter, NIPR; Mr Olusegun Mcmedal, Chairman, 26th AGM Planning Committee, NIPR and Pastor Joseph Adeniran, Acting Registrar, NIPR during the Lagos State chapter of NIPR Pre-AGM/press briefing held at Diplomat Hotel, Oduduwa Way, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos. Photo by Akeem Salau.

Boko Haram displaces over 1.4m in N’East — NEMA

By Ndahi Marama

M

AIDUGURI—THE International Organization for Migration (IOM) and National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, yesterday said that Boko Haram insurgency and incessant communal clashes among various ethnic groups in the North East sub-region of the country have displaced 1,385,298 million persons in five states of the sub-region.

The number of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), were contained in the June, 2015 Displacement Tracking Matrix

(DTM) released by International Organisation for Migration and NEMA to newsmen in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

The information officer of NEMA in a statement said that Borno state has the highest number of IDPs of 1, 002,688, while Gombe State has the least of 16, 984 persons in two camps and residents of their numerous relations and family members.

Next in number to Borno was the neigbouring Yobe State with 125, 484 displaced persons, currently living with their relations and other family members in Damaturu, Potiskum and three other

towns in northern part of the state.

Datti also said: “Adamawa, Bauchi and Taraba states in the North East sub-region, also recorded a total of 113,437, 76,504 and 20, 501 of IDPs in that order of influx into the state capitals of affected three states in the subregion.”

The statement however noted: “The report indicated that there was slight decrease in the number of IDPs compared to the last report released in April 2015 due to movements of return observed on the ground, especially in Adamawa State where the IDPs’ population has decreased.

In Borno, the IDPs population has increased since April 2015 to over 1.4 million.”

Benue moves to raise monthly IGR

By Peter Duru

M

A K U R D I — BENUE State government generates an average of N200 million monthly as Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, while its monthly salary profile stands at N3.7 billion.

Governor Samuel Ortom, who made this known at the weekend in Makurdi, said the paltry revenue profile of the state compared to its huge monthly salary wage bill had become a major challenge for his administration.

He said his administration was taking steps to engage financial experts who would partner with the government to grow the state’s IGR profile and also improve its financial fortunes.

Ortom said, "with the dwindling allocation from the federation account, coupled with our poor Internally Generated Revenue profile which stands at about N200 million, we are taking steps to improve our revenue base by partnering some experts in that area.

“This has become imperative considering that our monthly wage bill and overhead stands at N3.7 billion, which is quite enormous.

“In the meantime, we are look-

ing at the prospect of improving on our IGR to about N2billion monthly and with much determination and assistance of experts in that field, we should be able to hit the target.”

Bauchi pledges support for enterpreneurs

By Suzan Edeh

B

AUCHI—THE Bauchi State government has assured that it will support private and commercial business activities to thrive in the state, saying that local entrepreneurs are key contributors to any development in a nation.

The state governor, Mohammed Abubakar stated this yesterday at the official commissioning of Jifatu shopping mall in Bauchi.

Abubakar said that barely after a month of assumption of office, his government came face to face with the reality that the state was

lagging behind in industrial and commercial activities.

He said: ”Majority of urban dwellers who are civil servants were engaged in a petty business of trading with high rate of unemployment among the youths.

The situation was not different in the rural areas where the major source of livelihood was peasant farming. It is this state of affairs that has made majority of our people live below poverty line.

“The previous government did not help matters as no effort was made by them to stem the tide of economic deprivation among our people by encouraging small and medium enterprises”

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 59 YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEISURE

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139 VIRGO; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today; Unless you are more careful matters-of-the-heart may cause avoidable trouble the way your career/business can suffer temporarily.

LIBRA; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today ; It is important you don’t exhibit aggression unnecessarily.

Here is a day when secret love is capable of bringing serious pressure. Try to be very diplomatic.

SCORPIO; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today ; Your concentration level is not perfect and if you take bad advice from friends you would be misled. The more practical you are the better for you.

SAGITTARIUS; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today ; Unnecessary aggressive approach on your part along your career/business lines will back-fire more than you imagine. Graceful expression is what you will need.

CAPRICORN; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today ; Happenings within your working arena can bring minor provocation but it is just a passing trend. Travelling for love will bring more challenges than expected.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

T is not I uncommon to find man reeling

out a catalogue of why he could not do anything. It is an a b n o r m a l condition, he will say. But if we must face the truth, man

Is any condition normal? will be nothing without challenges confronting him.

Do you think God couldn’t provide everything for us?

Why do you think

TERROR MUDA

God commanded us to have dominion over all things? Everyone of us have a huge sense of satisfaction

in “Never say goodbye”

anytime we overcome a major challenge. That is the joy.

There is no normal condition anywhere. But the condition will be normal when the man is normal.

Think about it!

By Lanre Kehinde

AQUARIUS; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today ; Male members of this Star sign will need to watch their libido while female must not ignore their sex-life. Beware of joint ventures with those you don’t know.

PISCES; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today ; It is not compulsory you take to aggressive re-action to those within your base of operation who are not as perfect as you. Protect your spouse.

ARIES; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today ; Watch what you eat and drink today. This is the wrong time to engage in unnecessary heated argument.. Romance at work may bring disappointment.

TAURUS; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today ; Trying to influence matters-of-the-heart with money will not give you the desired result. Any way it is a day you will need to be more careful with money.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

GEMINI; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today ; It is important you are more careful while trying to pass judgement on people within your base of operation because you too may be wrong.

CANCER; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today ; Taking a pleasure drive or movement may bring more than anticipated responsibility. Keep away from whatever can not be placed above board today.

LEO; Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo today ; /9 If you allow friends to force their ideas on you financially or on matters-of-the-heart, you would be the loser. Express yourself gracefully.

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,

What should I know?

VIRGINIA

dadadekola@yahoo.com

Dear Joshua Kindly tell me where the Moon was placed when I was born and other things I should know about my star.

Awoniyi, Ogun.

Dear Awoniyi, What space can take will be given here-under. Your natal Moon was in Aries.

ANALYSIS OF YOUR HOROSCOPE DATA Preponderance of cardinal quality in your chart is an indication of GREAT LEADERSHIP QUALITY together with innate ability to attain prominence on one hand, on the other hand, exaltation of intellectual related Mercury in Aquarius at positive angle to both lucky Jupiter and Uranus (the planet of genius) in Libra pointed to a person with higher pitch of intelligence.

Action loving Mars as the final dispositor of your horoscope ( that’s most influential planet at home when you were born) will most times induce you to strongly desire importance with likeness for quick results; actually long promise without concrete action will bore you easily.

Equally 60 percentage of push-full influence in your chart means that the best for you is to go after your needs and wants.

Combination of all the placement and aspects formed within the planets when you were born are pointers to you as a person with balanced personality with little bias for good spiritual life. And you believe in disciplinarian life style.

Placement of your natal Sun and Moon in compassionate Pisces and self conscious Aries respectively are indications of your being mainly a Piscean and partly an Arian, however as Aries is also your Stellium sign, both basic characteristics of Pisces and Aries are highly pronounced in your inner-self.

HOME & ABROAD

By Lawrence Akapa

60 — VANGUARD, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

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Cot-Syn Nigeria Ltd, ARM Pension and general public please take note.

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Nigerian Premier League:

Sunshine Stars stay top

S

unshine Stars claimed a hard-fought point in a 1-1 draw with Lobi Stars on Sunday to retain top spot in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

Tunde Adeniji struck first for the Akure Gunners in the 64th minute on a day the top three sides — Sunshine Stars, Enyimba and Giwa FC — all failed to win.

The hosts battled gamely to claim a share of the spoils when Obioma Arinze profited from an Anthony Okpotu goalbound effort to poke home the equaliser six minutes later.

Sunshine Stars thus retain leadership of the competition with 30 points from 16 matches.

Six-time champions Enyimba FC were however just minutes away from leapfrogging Sunshine Stars to become the new leaders but drew 2-2 with Abia Warriors in a riproaring contest in Aba. The Peoples Elephants conceded first when Ndifreke Effiong scored a fantastic solo goal for the visitors in the 27th minute.

Christian Obiozor struck on the stroke of half time to hurl Enyimba back on level terms and the twotime African club champions then took the lead for the first time in the game when Daniel Etor struck early in the second half.

Michael Olaha however pushed a dagger into the hearts of Enyimba fans with the equaliser for Abia Warriors in the 80th minute.

A win would have seen Enyimba move to top spot and Obiozor thought he had guaranteed maximum points for his side but his late goal was correctly disallowed for offside.

Abia Warriors moved two places up to eighth following their heroics in Aba. Wikki Tourists stayed in third place in the standings after drawing 1-1 with Dolphins in Port Harcourt.

Mubarak Umar gave the Bauchi club the lead with a super finish just before the hour but Dolphins earned a point in the end when Victor Ezuruike struck unerringly from the penalty spot at the death.

01- 4544821

YOU CAN BOOK YOUR ADVERT AT: TRINITY MALL, 79/81 OBAFEMI AWOLOWO WAY, IKEJA. CALL: 08035449960, 07031322957 MURPHÝ'S PLAZA 27, SANUSI FAFUNWA STREET, VICTORIA ISLAND.

CALL: 08038092373, 08033163424

Adeniji

VANGUARD, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 61

Adejube faults Keshi’s dismissal

Keshi should blame self — Nigerian coaches

D

N

IGERIA Football C o a c h e s Association, NFCA have washed their hands off the sacking of Super Eagles Head Coach, Stephen Keshi, saying that he should blame self for his troubles.

The Nigeria Football Federation on Saturday sacked the Super Eagles gaffer following the recommendations of the Disciplinary Committee led by Chris Green which launched an investigation on the former Mali and Togo handler.

NFCA National President Bitrus Bewarang speaking on the development, accused Keshi of running a one man show adding that he has never associated himself with his colleagues in Nigeria.

According to him, “I have tried to speak to National coaches to always associate themselves with their colleagues here because they are at the professional level to help the association with some of the finances to get some of our programmes done.

“If they become our members, we will stick our neck for them, that is an advantage of being in Association. Our hands are tight when they are not our members.

“Some of the coaches that have been sacked here and there, some of them are now saying, let the coaches association come to their rescue, how can we do that, when you are not our members? he queried

•Toro

•Kojo

•Amiesimaka

Keshi deserves to go — Chukwu

BY JACOB AJOM

F

ORMER Super Eagles coach, Christian Chukwu has said that the decision by the Nigeria Football Federation to sack national team coach Stephen Keshi was in order, if the tactician was found to have applied for the Ivory Coast job while in contract with Nigeria.

Chukwu who was reacting to the news of Keshi’s sack said to have applied for the Ivory Coast job, Keshi did not show any sense of commitment to the job he had on hand. ‘’You don’t do that,’’ Chukwu started, adding, ‘’it shows clearly that he was not serious with the Eagles job.

Indeed, it is a clear disregard for his employers and lack of commitment to his job. ‘’When you have a subsisting contract, you are bound by the terms and don’t need to apply for another job. Once you do that it either shows some kind of discontent

with your present employment or you don’t respect your employers.

You don’t do that and expect a pat on the back from your employers,’’ he concluded.

He approved of the

interim arrangement which has seen Coach Shaibu Amodu back in the saddle albeit on a temporary basis. ‘’There should be no vacuum.

Someone has to take charge,’’ Chukwu said.

A

XED Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi has confirmed that he has received his letter of disengagement from the national team by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

And the former Togo and Mali coach has since proceeded to the United States of America to spend time with his family.

Sports Vanguard can confirm that Keshi C M Y K

travelled to the USA on Friday night, following a request by him to the NFF to proceed on his annual leave, which was to end by August 4. The NFF, we gathered, graciously granted Keshi’s request before playing a fast one on the former Super Eagles captain when it announced his sack a day later. ‘’What happened can be likened to a political drama’’, a usually reliable source said on phone

Super Falcons Coach.

“This is badly timed; a time that we are preparing for competitions, coaches are being sacked. This is the time the NFF is supposed to sit down and think of how to move the teams forward.

“You will see the repercussion, and we will have ourselves to blame in the end,” he said.

The retired FIFA badge referee noted that the NFF was not organised, saying, “instead of rallying to be focused; we need to think very well before we do things, and I wish them goodluck”.

However, Seyi Akinwumi had during his visit to the unveiling of logo for the Ondo State League Management Committee on July 3 in Akure told reporters that Keshi erred by inviting a non-league player for the Nation’s Cup qualifier against Chad in Kaduna.

Toro: keshi is the architect of his misfortune

BY SOLOMON NWOKE

F

ORMER Secretary General of the Nigeria Football Association (NFA), Alhaji Sani Ahmed Toro has slammed sacked coach of the Super Eagles, Stephen Keshi describing him as the architect of his own ‘misfortune’. while reacting yesterday to the termination of the appointment of the former Super Eagles Coach, the former Bauchi State Commissioner of Sports blamed Keshi for not heeding to his (Toro) advise to resign during the heat of his failure to qualify Nigeria for the last Afcon 2015.

“I knew he was going to

be messed up. He had the opportunity to resign, but failed to do so. He sought my advise when he couldn’t qualify for the Afcon 2015 and I advised him as somebody that worked under me ‘that if I were him, I will address the press and write to my employers thanking them for the opportunity they gave me to serve the nation and copy to the Presidency that I am done with the job and leave”.

“I knew Keshi when he was a player that he was very erratic and would cause his own problem. I didn’t expect him to do well when he was first given the Eagles’ job , but somehow, he was able to

Keshi off to USA, receives dismissal letter

BY JOHN EGBOKHAN

ICKSON Adejube, a former member of the Board of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has faulted the rate at which the federation had been removing the national team coaches.

Adejube criticised the frequency of removal of coaches in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), while reacting to the the latest termination of the appointment of a former Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi.

The termination was announced in a statement released in Abuja of on July 4 at the end of a meeting of the executive committee of the federatrion.

Adejube said there would be repercussions over a lack of continuity in the nation’s football management.

The NFF had recently announced the terminated of the appointment of Edwin Okon, a former

yesterday. ‘’Keshi was just one day into his annual leave as granted by the NFF when we got news of his removal as coach of the Super Eagles. It was a real coup by the NFF and we were surprised that it could all come to this shortly two months into his two-year contract’’, our source added.

When contacted to know if the coach has received his letter of disengagement as Eagles

coach, Keshi’s manager and brother, Emmanuel Ado, while speaking to Sports Vanguard on phone confirmed that Keshi has received the sack letter as Eagles handler. ‘’I can confirm to you that Keshi has received the letter of disengagement as Eagles coach.

The contents of the letter are clear and we would not want to comment any further on the matter’’, Keshi’s manager said.

win the Nations Cup for us which is a credit to him. But when he could not qualify us, the honourable thing was for him to have resigned. That’s the price you pay when you are given a target and you don’t get it, you leave”, he said.

Alhaji Toro however

advised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to get a substantive coach immediately to take charge of the Eagles remaining next Afcon qualification, saying that it would be disastrous for Nigeria not to qualify the second time for the African Cup of Nations.

Kojo blasts NFF over Keshi’s sack having failed to qualify the

BY JOHN EGBOKHAN

F

ORMER President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Anthony Kojo Williams has blasted the Amaju Pinnick-led board for relieving Stephen Keshi of his duties as Super Eagles coach.

Speaking in an interview with Sports Vanguard, Kojo-Williams lambasted the NFF for the poor handling of the Keshi matter, noting that it was clear that the coach was sacked following the exit of a top official of the Department of State Security. He said the NFF was not professional in handling the matter. ‘’There are many issues at stake in this matter. One was the choice of Keshi in the first place. He was not the choice of the NFF,

Eagles for the 2015 Nations Cup. The Nff did not want him but they had to back down following perceived pressure from a top officer in the SSS. ‘’The NFF has not been professional in handling the case of Keshi. They never wanted Keshi in the first place but buckled under pressure from the top. If they were professionals as they claim, why did they not sack Keshi when the security man was still on the job’’, Kojo asked rhetorically. ‘’But they could not have done this because they cannot stand the fire and that explains why they hurriedly pushed Keshi out at the shortest notice.

Unlike others, I see beyond the sack, that is why I feel the NFF has not displayed professionalism in conducting its internal affair ’’, added KojoWilliams.

62 — VANGUARD, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

Serena favourite to beat Venus but form may bring sisters closer I T is seven years since Venus Williams beat Serena Williams in a grand slam event, her victory here in the 2008 final also the last time she lifted a major title.

Today the sisters will meet at Wimbledon once more, this time in the fourth round, and it is Serena who has everything to lose.

It would be a strange turn of events if the younger sister’s hopes of completing her second “Serena slam” of four consecutive majors were to be ended by Venus. In 2002-03, when Serena won the French Open, Wimbledon, US Open and finally the Australian Open the following January to achieve the feat for the first time, it was Venus who was on the receiving end in all four finals. At 35, the odds are against the older sibling doing it but she will take heart from the fact that she won their last meeting, in Montreal

last year, and the pressure, undoubtedly, is on the world No1.

Four years ago Venus announced that she had been diagnosed with Sjogren’s syndrome, an incurable auto-immune disease that leaves her short of energy and causes joint pain. Many medical experts thought she would struggle to play again, at least at the highest level, but the five-times Wimbledon champion has managed the illness incredibly well, climbing back up the rankings to be seeded 16 this year and playing some impressive tennis, reaching the fourth round without dropping a set.

In the interim, Serena has dominated the Tour, winning seven grand slams in the past three years, ever since she teamed up with Patrick Mouratoglou just before Wimbledon in 2012. It is a partnership that has made her more consistent than ever, yielding 28 of

SISTERS....Between them at Wimbledon, the Williams sisters have 10 singles and five doubles titles her 67 titles, taking her grand slam tally to 20 and putting her halfway to the calendar year grand slam, something only three women have achieved.

But this will be the first

time Mouratoglou has had to prepare Serena to face Venus in a grand slam and the Frenchman knows it’s going to be a tough match, especially after the top seed came

within two points of losing to Britain’s Heather Watson in the previous round. “It’s always special for Serena to play her sister,” Mouratoglou said.

Wimbledon 2015: Murray wary of bigserving Karlovic

B

RITAIN’S Andy Murray says he is wary of the threat from big-serving Ivo Karlovic, ahead of their fourthround match today.

The 6ft 11in Croatian tops the aces leaderboard with 136 at the tournament so far.

“It’s mainly just the fact that he can hit so many of the angles on the court,” said third seed Murray, 28.

“You can’t just pat the return back into play, you need to try to do something with it, so it is tough.”

Karlovic, the 23rd seed, beat Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to set up the clash with Murray, but has never defeated the Scot in five meetings.

He took a set off Murray at Wimbledon three years ago, but felt he was “cheated” and accused officials of bias towards the Scot after being repeatedly footfaulted.

VANGUARD, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015 — 63

Copa America splash...Copa America splash

Messi’s biggest disappointments with Argentina A

RGENTINA’s 22year wait for Copa America glory goes on after penalty shoot-out defeat to Chile on Saturday evening. For Lionel Messi, it must feel interminable.

The Barcelona superstar has now played in three Copa America disappointments to go with his three World Cups and, despite having an Olympic gold medal to his name in an Argentina Under-23 side, he is still waiting to taste victory at senior level for his country.

Messi scored from the spot in Argentina’s opening game against Paraguay but that was to be his only goal of the tournament outside the shoot- outs.

He simmered rather than starred early on before really coming to the boil with a sensational performance in a 6-1 semi-final win over Peru. Messi assisted three goals in that game alone but the final proved to be a different story. He was closely marked by hosts Chile and while he managed to convert his spot-kick in the shoot- out, no teammate could match his efforts and another tournament ended in bitter failure.

Fans attack Messi’s family

L

IONEL Messi’s fam ily members were reportedly heckled and attacked by Chilean fans during Argentina’s final clash against Chile in Copa America on Saturday.

According to a newspaper report, Messi’s brother Rodrigo was also said to have been hit by a fan after a heated exchange.

The family members of Messi were immediately rushed to a television cabin at the stadium for safety reasons, it has been learnt.

Fans say Messi doesn’t play as well with the national team as he does with his club.

C M Y K

Two killed in Chile

T

WO people were killed and several others injured in Santiago when a car slammed into street revelers celebrating host Chile’s triumph in the Copa America soccer tournament, local radio BioBio reported on Sunday.

Chileans streamed into the streets, squares and bars after their team won its first ever major trophy on Saturday, beating Argentina 4-1 on penalties after the teams drew 0-

0.

Some crowds attempted to loot shops and supermarkets before being stopped by police, local media reported.

But the Copa tournament was largely free of the hooliganism that has dogged soccer matches in the region. Efforts to work with other countries to keep out troublemakers seem to have worked, with no reports of significant violence.

No Copa joy for Messi

Sanchez: We knew we would win A

RSENAL forward Alexis Sanchez said that Chile knew at last year ’s World Cup that they would win their first Copa America this year.

And their dreams came true as a 4-1 penalty shootout over The 26-year-old stroked in the winning penalty to send his nation into raptures and the forward believes that his country’s experience at Brazil 2014 prepared them for their Copa triumph.

“We talked about it in Brazil that we were going to win the Copa America,” Sanchez said.

“This is really a great generation, we deserve this.”

Chile celebrate Copa triumph

TRANSFER... TRANSFER... TRANSFER

RVP hasn’t found new club — Agent

R

OBIN van Persie’s agent has denied that the Dutch striker is on the verge of completing a move to Fenerbache.

Reports suggested the Manchester United striker was on the verge of completing a move to the Turkish side but Kees Vos has said that he has not found a new club for the Dutch forward, who has one year left on his deal at the club.

The agent told Voetbal international: “If Robin had found a new club, we would have announced

Van Persie it. And I’m in the Netherlands right now.

“All I can say that tomorrow Robin will simply report at Manchester United for the first training session.”

B

ARCELONA presidential candidate Josep Maria Bartomeu has urged his club’s interim management committee to beat Manchester United and Chelsea to the signing of Arda Turan.

The Turkish winger has emerged as one of the most in-demand players on the continent, with the player having confirmed he will leave Atletico Madrid in the coming days. Former teammate Diego Costa has called on his former colleague to move to Stamford Bridge but it seems Luis Enrique has identified Turan as his first-choice signing.

Barca rival Man U, Chelsea for Turan

•Turan Barcelona’s Fifaimposed transfer embargo has not stopped them spending and Bartomeu wants Turan to join Aleix Vidal at the Nou Camp.

Mascherano

Mascherano: Losing a torture

L

OSING a second major final in a year was absolute torture for Argentina, midfield general Javier Mascherano said after Chile beat them on penalties to win the Copa América on Saturday.

“Losing is torture, it’s a huge sadness,” said Mascherano, one of the few Argentina players to talk to reporters after the final at Santiago’s National Stadium. “Everyone knows what I feel when I put this shirt on.”

The Barcelona midfielder, one of Argentina’s best players in the final, highlighted the team’s performance throughout the tournament.

“We had a good Copa América, we played a final as visitors and were up to it. Again we lacked that quota of luck to win, I really can’t find an explanation,” the 31-year-old said.

Vanguard, MONDAY, JULY 6, 2015

•Keshi deserves to go — Chukwu •Adejube faults Keshi’s dismissal •Toro: keshi is the architect of his misfortune •Kojo blasts NFF over Keshi’s sack

Keshi should blame self — Nigerian coaches Argentina’s Lionel Messi seats on the pitch during the trophy ceremony at the end of the Copa America final soccer match

COPA America: •2 killed in Chile •Fans attack Messi's family

•Pinnick

NPL RESULTS

Details of stories inside

Enyimba Bayelsa Giwa Kano Pillars Akwa I/Ubah Taraba Dolphins Sharks Lobi

Keshi off to USA, receives dismissal letter

2 Abia Warriors 2 2 Warri Wolves 0 2 Heartland 1 1 El-Kanemi 2 Rangers 1 Shooting 0 Kwara 1 Wikki 0 Nasarawa 1 Sunshine

0 0 0 0 1 0 1

•Venus and Serena

Wimbledon Open: Serena favourite to beat Venus but...

•END OF THE ROAD: Keshi

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

FRI DAY'S FRIDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Mistake (4) 4 Crowd (3) 6 III (4) 8 Thoroughfare (6) 9 Mum (6) 10 Heated (3) 12 Flutter (5) 14 Endured (5) 15 Cheated (5) 18 Plan (6) 20 Emanated (6) 24 Entice (5) 26 Trap (5) 28 Long (5) 30 Damp (3) 32 Fame (6) 33 Crease (6) 34 Employed (4) 35 Faucet (3) 36 Swarthy (4)

DOWN 2 Housey-housey (5) 3 Go first (7) 4 Legend (4) 5 Cream (4) 6 Divide (5) 7 Comfort (7) 11 Individual (3) 12 Owns (3) 13 Spirit (3) 16 Favourite (3) 17 Obscure (3) 19 Admit (7) 21Agent (3) 22 Checked (7) 23 Fellow (3) 25 Watch (3) 27 Circular (5) 29 Sovereign (5) 30 Departed (4) 31 Excursion (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 2, Pearl 7, Appal 8, Molar 10, Curse 12, Net 13, Dated 15, Elation 17, Eroded 19, Ewe 20, Descend 23, Seer 25, Down 26, Negated 30, Lay 31, Detest 34, Scraped 37, Money 38, Rut 39, Debit 40, Rebel 41, Saver.

DOWN: 1, Spear 2, Paced 3, Eluded 4, Rise 5, Contend 6, Baton 9, Lei 11, Elected 13, Dense 14, Token 16, Awe 18, Delayed 21, Dozen 22, Unity 24, Related 27, Gap 28, Demise 29, Screw 32, Total 33, Sewer 35, Rub 36, Dear.

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.

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