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NACCIMA rejects electricity tariff increase

FIFA bans Blatter, Platini for 8 years

NERC removes fixed charges for consumers

CHIDI UGWU AND OLUFEMI ADEOSUN Fashola

Vol. 5 N0. 1270

ational Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Mines and Ag-

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

riculture, NACCIMA, has cautioned the Federal Government over hike in

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FG blames Jonathan’s F govt for fuel scarcity

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CHIDI UGWU AND ROTIMI FADEYI

Kachikwu deploys NNPC staff to monitor sales, distribution

ederal Government yesterday said the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan should be blamed for the present fuel scarcity in the country. Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, while briefing State House correspondents CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

Court fixes Feb 4 to hear suit challenging NCC’s fine on MTN P.4 Commission inaugurates 5-man panel to investigate Army, Shiite clash P.7

L-R: British Secretary of State for Defence, Mr Michael Fallon; President Muhammadu Buhari; British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Paul Arkwright; Minister of Defence, retired Brig-Gen. Mohammed Dan-Ali and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Geoffrey Onyema, after a meeting of the President with the visiting British Secretary of State for Defence, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday.

$2bn armsgate: Group urges Buhari to try beneficiaries for treason Court grants Dasuki, Yuguda, 2 others N250m bail each

Yuletide: Travellers decry fare hike, fuel scarcity

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Boko Haram lures people together to bomb –Military P.6 Mining: Govt to enforce ‘use it or lose it’ licence regime P.12

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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

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NACCIMA rejects electricity tariff increase CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

electricity tariff. NACCIMA National Vice President, Prince Billy Gillis-Harry, who gave the warning in Abuja, said the Federal Government should have involved relevant stakeholders in the process of arriving at the new increase. Gillis-Harry said it was not proper for the government or any of its agencies to just wake up and say “this is what the consumer would pay on electricity without involving them. “The decision should come from pool of opinion. Every stakeholder should be part of it because the negative impact would be on all, looking at economy that is,” he said. According to him, before the proposal for the increase in tariff, consumers had been paying more than what they consume because of the compromise in the system. “Actually we do not need to muzzle Nigeria because for any policy or projection, ordinarily a minister should not be the one canvassing for that, there should be processes by which those cost should be evaluated. “Whether we like it or not we are paying more, because if your bill is N2,000, you will discover that your consumption is not up to N1,000. There is a compromise in the system. So, when they gave that bulk of responsibility back to ordinary Nigerian, you are just trying to kill the zeal of that Nigerian to become somebody “We don’t want Nigeria to be discouraged. Before the Federal Government takes any policy decision to make this increase, they should have carried all stakeholders along,” he said. He noted that the country had passed the stage when anybody would wake up and say, “this is what I want to do.” According to him, “We need to know why you want to do it, what is the history, the reason why it has not happened or why it has failed, and we must be able to talk about it. “If we know that paying more for electricity will give power 24/7 which is better than using generator, we will be willing to pay.” He called on government to tread softly on plan to re-

move subsidy on fuel, stressing that whatever decision being taken should impact positively on the populace. He said: “I believe that Nigerians are willing to embrace change for the value that will give them a better standard of living. “You cannot wake up and say that you are removing subsidy on fuel. Yes, we are the ones advocating for it to give room for competition but there has to be a process

for how it should be done not just a policy statement coming from a minister.” Meanwhile, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, yesterday said fixed charges have been removed from the new tariff regime approved over the weekend. Fixed charge is that component of the tariff that commits electricity consumers to paying an approved amount not mind-

ing whether electricity is consumed or not during the billing period. The regulatory agency in a statement made available to journalists in Abuja stated that the removal applies to all classes of electricity consumers. NERC, however, said the new tariff regimes come with an increase in energy charges, According to NERC, under the new tariff regime,

electricity consumers will now only pay for what they consume from month to month. NERC chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi, expressed hope that the news will augur well for consumers who have long asked for a more just and fair pricing of electricity. He said the commission had promised to address all complaints against fixed charges through a regulatory process that promotes

investments in the industry without unfairly burdening consumers. He added that the new policy is in line with NERC’s mandate to be fair in all its regulatory interventions. “Although, the new tariff regimes comes with an increase in energy charges, all electricity consumers (residential as well as commercial) will no longer pay fixed charges, so their total bills CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

Cross section of Ministers during Federal Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday.

FG blames Jonathan’s govt for fuel scarcity CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

at the end of the Federal Executive Council, FEC, meeting held at the Presidential Villa explained that Nigerians are paying for the sins of the last administration by the fuel scarcity, which had persisted for several weeks. “What I will be telling Nigerians is that what we met on ground is such that we are paying for the sins of the last administration. I am being very serious. “You remember that about two weeks ago, we had to go to the National Assembly for a supplementary budget of N674bn. Of that figure, N522bn was for arrears of fuel subsidy which was incurred as far back as August last year. “One of the reasons for the fuel scarcity was the inability of the last government to make adequate provision for fuel subsidy. We do face some other logistic problems but majorly we are paying for the sins of the last

administration,” Mohammed said. He said the present government was now taking steps to solve the problem, stressing that the first thing was to make sure that unlike before when marketers used to import the major percentage of the fuel, Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, had been involved in importation. Mohammed said the step was taken by government because some of the marketers had stopped importing for a couple of months. “If you see any fuel anywhere today, it is imported by NNPC. We also inherited the vandalisation of the pipeline, which has made it impossible for us to even transport fuel. “In tanks today, we have 14 days reserve and off tank, we have 10 days reserve. The issue is not non-availability of the product; it is the distribution. Because of pipelines that have been vandalised and the gridlock in Lagos,

it takes about five days for anybody to take fuel with tanker in Lagos. “As at two days ago this matter has been resolved. The Mosinmi pipeline has been secured and it has led to the improvement in the distribution,” Mohammed added. He also said the council approved a memo by Attorney General of the Federation, AGF, Abubakar Malami, SAN, to review extant taxation laws, in order to improve the legal framework. He also explained that FEC approved another memo brought by Minister of Budget and National Planning, Udoma Udo Udoma, seeking approval for the 2016 budget, which would be presented by President Muhammadu Buhari before the National Assembly today Speaking further on the memo on review of taxation laws, Udoma said it was a memo that would look at the policies behind the laws in order to see whether there are gaps

and how such laws would be strengthened. When asked the areas of the taxation laws that would be reviewed, Udoma said: “It is a little premature to talk about what exactly the reviews are; I am sure they would be consulting very widely and definitely any review will not aim at those who can’t afford it. It would be aimed more at the affluent rather than the poor.” Speaking further on the tax laws, Mohammed said government noticed some inadequacies in the current tax regime, stressing that the inadequacies had been exploited by both individuals and corporate organisations to evade tax, which had led to loss of revenue to the government. According to him, the review would plug the loopholes and address the inadequacies in the current tax regime. Meanwhile, in a bid to ensure total eradication of queues from fuel stations, Minister of State

for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, yesterday ordered the deployment of NNPC staff to filling stations across the country for effective monitoring of the distribution system. Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division of NNPC, Ohi Alegbe, in a statement said the minister gave the directive while speaking at an emergency meeting with senior staff of the corporation at the NNPC Towers. Kachikwu said though there were a number of challenges in the supply and distribution system that hampered efficient delivery of products across the country, it was time for NNPC to rise above the challenges by ensuring that the special intervention supplies were not diverted or hoarded. “This calls for effective monitoring of the supply system, especially at the end points, to ascertain CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

NEWS

L-R: Director-General, National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC; Dr. Paul Orhii; President of the Republic of Ghana, Mr. John Dramani Mahatma; Chief Executive, Institute for Government Research Leadership Technology, Ambassador Moses Essien and the Group Chairman/Founder of Kasapreko Company Limited, Dr. Kwabena Adjei, at the unveiling of the new factory in Ghana, yesterday.

L-R: Former Super Eagles International, Austin Okocha; General Manager, Consumer Marketing, MTN, Richard Iweanoge and General Manager, Nigerian Content Development at Shell - The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd., Chiedu Oba, during an Evening with MTN in Lagos, at the weekend.

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L-R: Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Home Affairs, Mrs Grace Oladimeji; Commissioner for Home Affairs, Alhaji Abdulateef Abdulhakeem; Chairman, Med-View Airline, Alhaji Munir Bankole, and Director, Administration and Human Resources, Lagos State Ministry of Home Affairs, Mrs Kemi Adeoye, at the inauguration of Hajj Contributory Scheme tagged: Pay Small, Small, in Lagos yesterday.

Jubilant Anambra Team (Winners of the 2015 SUBEB debate competition) with Ogun State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Yetunde Onanuga, in Abeokuta, recently

National News

APC urges Nigerians to support FG’s anti-graft war A ll Progressives Congress, APC, yesterday urged Nigerians to support President Muhammadu Buhari’s anti-corruption war. This was contained in a statement signed by the party’s Deputy Director of Publicity, Mr. Edegbe Odemwingie in Abuja. In apparent reaction to a media publication in which the government’s anti-corruption war was described as “selective” and “cosmetic”, the party urged Nigerians not to be distracted by such. It alleged that issues canvassed in the publication were concocted. “National Chairman of APC, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, urges Nigerians, who see merit in the war that President Buhari’s administration is waging against corruption, not to be distracted by this ploy of agents of corruption,” the statement said. It added that the publication was proof that there was unease in the camp of treasury looters, hence they planted it in the media. According to it, the publication represents a desperate attempt to discredit President Buhari’s anti-corruption war. It said the burden of proof “of the sweeping allegations made in the con-

cocted interview that members of the APC are corrupt” was on the sponsors of the publication. The statement decried the diversion of public funds, especially as it concerned arms deal and assured that government would soon publish details

of looted funds voluntarily returned to government coffers. “The looted arms-purchase funds could have saved the lives of innocent Nigerians, particularly ill-equipped soldiers who became easy preys to insurgents.

“In this light, the concocted interview is the height of callous insensitivity. “Indeed, corruption is fighting back but the will of Nigerians and the noble efforts of the present administration will prevail,” it stated.

Court fixes Feb 4 for MTN vs NCC suit

Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday fixed February 4, 2016, to hear a suit against Nigerian Communication Commission, NCC, challenging the imposition of N1.4trn fine on MTN. The suit, slated for hearing, was further adjourned on Monday to February 4, 2016, for mention, due to absence of the judge. The Incorporated Trustees of National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers, NATCOMS, instituted the suit. The association and its President, Oluyinka Oyeniji (who sued for themselves and on behalf of MTN subscribers), seek an injunction restraining NCC from imposing any sanction on MTN. NCC recently imposed the fine over

MTN’s alleged non-compliance with a directive to de-activate the lines of all unregistered GSM subscribers. The fine was later reduced from $5.2bn to $3.9bn (about N777bn). In the suit, NATCOMS is praying the court for an order for parties to maintain status quo, pending the hearing of the substantive suit. In its originating summons, the plaintiff is seeking a declaration that both NCC and MTN are statutorily responsible for the registration of subscribers based on NCC (Registration of Telephone Subscribers) Regulations, 2011. It prayed the court to declare that NCC failed in its statutory duties to conduct monthly updates of the central database from 2011 till 2015, and to efficiently maintain it in spite of huge

sums of money deployed. The plaintiff is also praying the court to declare the N1.4trn fine as illegal, unconstitutional, null and void. The plaintiff averred that NCC cannot unilaterally impose or exert any fine on a telecom firm without a court order after conviction for an offence. NATCOMS, which also sought N10m as cost of the action, wants the court to hold that NCC cannot be a judge in its own case by imposing a fine on MTN. Meanwhile, in a preliminary objection, NCC argued that the plaintiff lacked the locus standi to institute the suit. It said no reasonable cause of action was disclosed by the plaintiff. NCC is praying the court to strike out the suit in its entirety with an award of substantial costs against the plaintiff.

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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

$2bn armsgate: Group urges Buhari to try beneficiaries for treason DOOSUUR IWAMBE ABUJA

coalition of Civil Society groups, New Nigeria Agenda and The Nigerian Project, yesterday, urged the Federal Government to try all beneficiaries of the $2bn meant for purchase of arms for treason. Coordinator of the group, Mr. Phil Roberts, made the call at a joint news conference in Abuja. He said: “It is our wish that anyone, no matter how highly placed, that is found culpable should be treated as committing treason against the Nigerian state. “This is because we believe it is the only way people in position of authority will respect the innocent lives of Nigerians placed under their watch. “Now that we know that funds meant for our security was embezzled by a few, we are happy that the long arm of the law will gradually bring all of them to justice.” Roberts urged Nigerians to support the military in

the fight against insurgency as it was a collective fight. He said: “We also want to emphatically state that this fight is a fight that demands the participation of every well-meaning Nigerian.” He added that the group decided to speak out in total condemnation of how Nigerian troops were subjected to ridicule. He explained that the group had taken it upon itself to launch the Support Our Troops Initiative to create sustained awareness on military operations against insurgency in the country. He called for adequate funding of the military in the 2016 appropriation to boost their morale. The coordinator condemned comments by some Nigerians on the recent action of the Army against the Shiite group which allegedly attacked the Chief of Army Staff, COAS, convoy in Zaria, Kaduna State. He said: “The act by the Shiites was a clear attempt to assassinate the Chief of Army Staff. “But to our greatest shock, we read where Nige-

rians have been condemning the Army, all to make the government look bad.” He said there was nowhere in the world today where civilians would confront the Army in such a manner without sinister motive. In a related development, a cleric, Pastor Yohana Buru, yesterday urged the National Assembly to make a legislation empowering the president to appoint special panels to try those who looted the nation’s treasury. Buru told the News Agency of Nigerian, NAN, in Sokoto that taking such suspects to the conventional courts would not facilitate quick dispensation of justice. He said the law should empower the country’s president to appoint fearless judges who would ensure diligent prosecution of all those indicted. He explained that the nation had suffered too much in the hands of corrupt public officers, hence the need to ensure all those indicted were prosecuted. Buru, who is the chair-

man of Peace Revival and Reconciliation Foundation of Nigeria, called for quick prosecution of those indicted in the arms deal and other public officers who embezzled public funds. “We need to ensure all those indicted are prosecuted to serve as deterrent to others who might be interested in looting the nation’s treasury,” he said. He also called on the antigraft agencies to formulate stringent measures to facilitate recovery of the nation’s stolen funds. He advised the Federal Government to channel the recovered looted funds to power supply and job creation. Meanwhile, the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, yesterday, granted bail to erstwhile National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd), former Minister of State for Finance, Bashir Yuguda, and three others, in the sum of N250m each. Dasuki and Yuguda are standing trial alongside former Director of Finance in the NSA office, Shuaibu

Salisu, former Governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Bafarawa, his son Sagir and their company Attahiru Investment Limited. They were arraigned by Economic and Financial Crimes Commissions, EFCC, on a 22-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust, misappropriation and retention of proceeds of crime worth N19.4bn. Justice Peter Affen, while delivering ruling on the bail application filed by the defence lawyers, ordered that the defendants must produce two sureties each and one of them must not be below the level of director in the federal civil service. Affen also held that the sureties must be resident within the jurisdiction of the court. The judge also ordered that the sureties must have landed properties, which must be verified and valued by surveyors to have cost same amount (N250m) within Abuja. He said the titled document of the said properties and the international pass-

L-R: Wife of the Visitor to Mountain Top University(MTU), Dr. (Mrs.) Shade Olukoya; wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode; Visitor, Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya; Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Vice Chancellor, MTU, Prof. Elijah Ayolabi, at the official opening and first matriculation of the University, at Prayer City, Ogun State, yesterday. PHOTO: ADEMOLA AKINLABI

FG blames Jonathan’s govt for fuel scarcity CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

that what is trucked out from the depots is delivered at the designated fuel stations and dispensed to the public in the most efficient manner. “We need you to be out there to help achieve this; we can’t be at ease while Nigerians are going through so much pain to get fuel,” Kachikwu stated.

He challenged staff to volunteer for the monitoring exercise, adding that standing up to provide creative solutions to challenges was what the new NNPC was all about. The minister urged the staff to work towards achieving zero-queues at their respective stations as soon as possible, adding that they should be ready to sacrifice their

Christmas break if need be. Also speaking at the emergency meeting, Group Executive Director, Commercial and Investment, Dr. Victor Adeniran, called on those on monitoring duties to work closely with the Rapid Response Team by reporting any situation that needed urgent intervention such as low stock, delayed ar-

rival of trucks or any underhand dealing. Explaining further, Dr. Adeniran said the Rapid Response Team was made up of PPMC staff and representatives of law enforcement agencies that could adequately handle any challenge, adding that so far, about 200 trucks of the special intervention stock had arrived Abuja. He called on the staff

to be vigilant and ensure that all the petrol designated for their respective stations were delivered and dispensed to members of the public in a most efficient manner. It was learnt that in continuation of the special intervention fuel supply for the Yuletide season, another 567 trucks were dispatched nationwide yesterday.

port of the defendants must be submitted to the court. Affen also ordered that, in case of any further investigation by the prosecution, the defendants must not be kept outside the hours of 9a.m. to 6p.m. when the need arises. He said if EFCC had any reason to keep the defendants outside those hours, the court must be informed on the need to do so. The judge said failure to perfect the bail conditions, the defendants shall be remanded in Kuje Prison. The case was adjourned to February 2 and 3 next year for trial.

NACCIMA rejects electricity tariff increase CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

will depend on the electricity they actually consume and may be reduced when they conserve electricity. “Consumers will no longer be spending money every month to pay for fixed charges even when they do not receive electricity in their homes and business. “The objective of the new tariff is to enable prudent consumers to save money on electricity bill as they can now control their consumption and not pay monthly fixed charges. “For instance, residential customer classification (R2) in Abuja Electricity Distribution Company will no longer pay N702 fixed charge every month. Their energy charge will increase by N9.60. “Also, residential customers (R2) in Eko and Ikeja electricity distribution areas will no longer pay N750 fixed charges. They will be getting N10 and N8 increase respectively in their energy charges. “Similarly, the burden of N800 and N750 fixed charges would be lifted off the shoulders of Kaduna and Benin electricity consumers. These consumers will see an increase of N11.05 and N9.26 respectively in their energy charges. “The new tariff is also good news for commercial consumers. For example, commercial customers’ classification C2 in Ibadan and Enugu will no longer pay fixed charges of N17, 010 and N22, 141. Their energy charge will increase by N12.08 and N13.35 respectively,” NERC said in the statement.

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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

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Yuletide: Travellers decry fare hike, fuel scarcity

assengers travelling to different parts of the country ahead of the yuletide have decried hike in the cost of transportation as well as the lingering fuel scarcity nationwide. Some of the passengers who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, on Monday in Abuja, however, said they were not surprised at the hike. At the popular Jabi motor park in Abuja, a passenger, Mr. Danjuma Audu, said the increase in fare during yuletide was not a new development in the country. Audu noted that it was the usual practice of transporters to increase fare during festive seasons. He, however, expressed concern that the lingering fuel scarcity and the current economic situation in the country had added more pains to travellers and Nigerian masses in general. Another traveller, Mrs Josephine Akindele, said she paid N5, 500 to travel to Lagos as against the N4, 500 she had paid on the same route some weeks ago. Akindele urged the Federal Government to find a solution to the continuous fuel scarcity plaguing the nation, to ameliorate the suffering of the masses. Meanwhile, Malam Adamu Madaki, the Chair-

man of Zaria Line at Jabi Park, noted a significant drop in the turnout of travellers this year, compared to previous years. Madaki said that even though there was fuel scarcity, motorists had restrained themselves from hiking fare arbitrarily, due to the low turnout of passengers and the economic situation in the country. According to him, the fare to Zaria, Kano and other parts of the North remain constant N1,700 to Zaria and N2,000 to Kano. On the other hand, at the Peace Mass Transit Park, Utako, it was gathered that the fare from Abuja to Enugu had jumped from N4, 500 to N5, 500 while Abuja to Port Harcourt now costs N7,000 as against N6,000 previously. A passenger, Mr Dan Eze, said the hike in fare was expected, considering the usual rush during yuletide and the lingering fuel crisis. Eze, however, advised the government to devise a means of addressing the fuel scarcity, to enable motorists to provide effective and efficient service to the travelling public. He further urged motorists to ensure the safety of travellers by putting their vehicles in proper shape and sensitise their drivers against reckless driving.

L-R: President of FROT Group, Frank Momoh; President, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick; Chairman, England Football Association, Greg Dyke; Secretary-General, NFF, Muhammed Sanusi and others, at the just concluded NFF Leadership Programme in London, UK.

We’ll sanitise defence procurements –Buhari

Rotimi Fadeyi

resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday said that his administration is taking urgent and appropriate actions to restore order, due process and probity in the procurement processes of the nation’s armed forces. A statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said Buhari spoke at a meeting with the British Secretary of State for Defence, Mr. Michael Fallon. Buhari lamented that

the procurement of equipment for Nigeria’s Armed Forces which followed due process in the past, had become open to corruption and shady deals under the last administration. “They just put foreign exchange in a briefcase and traveled to procure equipment for the military. That is why we have found ourselves in the crisis we are now facing,” the president said. Welcoming the offer by the British Government to assist Nigeria in defence procurements, intelligence gathering and training, Buhari restated his convic-

Boko Haram lures people together to bomb –Military Inusa Ndahi MAIDUGURI

he Military High Command in Abuja, has revealed that Boko Haram terrorists in their desperate move to increase causalities and destruction to properties during the yuletide and the new year, have devised other means of inflicting serious damages using tactics of crying and feigning pains by shouting to attract sympathy from unsuspecting public. This was disclosed in a press statement signed by the Acting Director Defence Infor-

mation, Brigadier-General Rabe Abubakar, and made available to our correspondent in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital. “It has come to the knowledge of the Defence Headquarters that Boko Haram terrorists have now devised other means of inflicting harm on innocent citizens to further their terrorist cause. “Some of the tactics they now use include, crying and feigning pains and shouting to attract sympathy from unsuspecting public. When a lot of people of goodwill gather to

render help in the process, the suicide bomber detonates bombs which they conceal under their clothes,” the statement said. Abubakar said the recent suicide bombing in Damaturu is instructive. Similarly, he said suicide bombers used monetary incentives and other inducements especially in crowded places to lure innocent citizens in order to cause colossal damage to both lives and properties. Yola suicide incident is fresh in our memory. The Defence Headquarters therefore

advises citizens to be wary of such antics of the terrorists who are losing out in their former enclaves and are now desperate to remain relevant by using any means to perpetuate fear in the minds of the populace. The Defence Headquarters also warns citizens to be extra vigilant and weary of terrorist malevolence in such places as parks, worship centres and recreation spots particularly in this festive period. Citizens are advised to report suspicious persons or objects to security agencies for prompt action.

tion that the international community must collaborate more and work with greater unity of purpose to overcome global terrorism. “Terrorism has become very sophisticated now. If developed nations can be attacked and hundreds of lives lost, how much more developing countries? “In the West African sub-region, Nigeria is the main battleground of the Boko Haram insurgency. We have made a lot of progress against the terrorists, but we will welcome more assistance from our friends and the international community,” the president told Fallon. In his remarks, Fallon said he was in the country to see what more Britain could do to support Nigeria in battling terrorism and violent extremism. “Groups like Boko Haram don’t believe in democracy and freedom of choice, so it’s a common fight for us all,” he told Buhari. Speaking with State House Correspondents after the meeting, Fallon said discussion at the meeting focused on what Britain can do to help Nigeria deal with the insurgency in the country. He said that for this year, Britain had about 130 military personnel helping to train the Nigerian Army, stressing that more than 300 are coming to offer training, particularly to improve the army’s resilience to Improvised Explosive Devices, IED, that were left behind by Boko Haram. On rehabilitation pro-

gramme in areas that have been attacked by Boko Haram, Fallon said, “yes, we want to do more to help stabilise those areas once the terrorists have been driven out, that means sustaining them with not only reconciliation, but economic development, providing security for this place for them to go back to their villages, with the knowledge that they need to be protected and the infrastructure there to be repaired. “Today’s visit is part of series of visits, our Chief of Defence Staff was here recently, our Deputy National Security Adviser was here and the president and I are aware both have to do with this kind of terrorism facing our countries” “So he has welcomed our offer of support to help to clear the terrorists out of the North East of Nigeria. And we are going to be working together as well as on a wider issues of stabilisation and economic development of these areas, providing long-term security,” Fallon said. The Minister of Defence, General Mansur Muhammed Dan-Ali (rtd), when asked whether there would be extension of the December deadline said timeline was for the military. We have time line in December, but December is not the end of the operation. It is a campaign. Campaign last for years, not dates,” Dan-Ali said.

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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

2016 Budget: NASS stands still for Buhari George Oji, ABUJA

ational Assembly was literarily shut down yesterday in preparation for the visit of President Muhammadu Buhari to present the 2016 appropriation bill to the joint sitting of the Senate and the House of Representatives today. All staff of the National Assembly complex were asked to close work ahead of normal closing time of 5pm to enable security agencies begin “sweeping” of the complex ahead of today’s event. Also yesterday, clerk of the National Assembly, Alhaji Salisu Maikasuwa,

issued a circular in which he directed all staff of the complex to stay away to prevent any form of rowdy atmosphere during the budget presentation by the president. The circular signed by Director, Personnel Management, Mamud A. Abubakar, on behalf of the clerk, however, exempted staff of the National Assembly working in any of the two chambers and security personnel from the stay away instruction, just as it warned that appropriate punishment would be meted to any staff found flouting the order. Business organisations affected by the stay away order include all operators

of banks, eateries, airlines, insurance outfits, telecommunication centres and the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN’s office. The statement titled, ‘Presentation of 2016 Budget to National Assembly by President Muhamnadu Buhari,’ reads: “The President and Commander-inChief of the Armed Forces, Muhammadu Buhari, is presenting the 2016 budget to the National Assembly on Tuesday, December 22, 2015. “In view of the above, all staff of the National Assembly as well as operators of business outfits in the National Assembly Complex with the exception of those on essential duties,

e.g. chamber, security and medical staff are directed to stay away from the NASS complex on December 22, 2015. “Any staff found to have violated this instruction will face appropriate disciplinary action.” Meanwhile, security operatives have taken over the premises of the National Assembly as at yesterday evening just as last minute preparations for the event were seen being carried out by staffers of the National Assembly such as laying of the red carpet from the main entrance into the House of Representatives chamber where the joint session would hold for the presentation.

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ational Human Rights Commission, NHRC, has inaugurated a five-man panel to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the clash between the Nigerian Army and members of the Shiite Islamic sect in Zaria. Executive Secretary of the commission, Prof. Ben Angwe, who inaugurated the panel in Abuja yesterday, said the investigation became necessary following a complaint before the commission by Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai. “On December 14, 2015, the Chief of Army Staff presented a petition to the National Human Rights Commission on allegations of an attempt on his life and attack on his convoy on his way to Zaria, which eventually led to a vicious clash between the military and some members of the Shiite sect in Zaria, leading to the loss of several lives and property. “Pursuant to the receipt of this complaint from the military, the commission, in line with its mandate to receive complaints on human rights violations, monitor and investigate such allegations, with a view to making appropriate determination in the circumstances, has decidCONFIRMATION OF NAME

FG urges Nigerians to disregard ISIL’s propaganda

inister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has urged Nigerians to disregard the propaganda antics of the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant, ISIL, against the people of Nigeria. The minister gave the advice in a statement issued by his special adviser on media, Mr. Segun Adeyemi, and made available to newsmen yesterday in Abuja. He described as “hoax,” the purported figures being bandied by the ISIL concerning the number of attacks and people killed by the Boko Haram terrorists in Nigeria in the last two months. He said: “The imaginary figures were part of ISIL’s strategy to shore up the morale of its dispersed and defeated fellow terrorists

in Nigeria. “Apart from these fake figures, we are aware of the planned release of old videos of Boko Haram attacks in Nigeria through the terrorists’ preferred channel to give the impression that they have continued to carry out spectacular attacks. “Those videos are neither recent nor genuine. “The ISIL/Boko Haram propaganda is being deliberately timed to coincide with the December 31, 2015, deadline issued to the military by the president to decimate the terrorists. “It is also aimed at distracting the military and striking at its all-time high morale.’’ The minister said the truth is that the capability of the military has improved drastically. “There is a higher level

of awareness among Nigerians concerning the war against terrorism, which has led Nigerians to increase their support for the troops on the frontline and also own the war. “Therefore, the figures being pushed out by ISIL on behalf of Boko Haram represent nothing but figments of the terrorists’ imagination. “We recently visited Bama from where they once ran their phony Caliphate, but all we saw were gallant troops holding sway. “We even shared a delicious lunch of ‘balango’ (a kind of ‘suya’) and soft drinks with the troops. “We therefore wonder where the terrorists have been carrying out their socalled spectacular attacks, as indicated by ISIL, when indeed the capability of

the shameless cowards has been so degraded.’’ Mohammed added: “All they can do now is to target innocent women and children, using equally innocent children and women as their bomb carriers. “Decimated Boko Haram terrorists are so hungry, so broke, so sick and so desperate that all they can now do is to clutch at straws, hence Nigerians should ignore their meaningless propaganda. “In the days ahead, there will be more of such Boko Haram propaganda, targeted at weakening the resolve of our brave troops and instilling fears in the minds of Nigerians. “The terrorists are also seeking to impress their fellow terrorists in ISIL. “Nigerians should see the propaganda as what it is: a hoax,’’ he declared.

NHRC to investigate Army, Shiite clash

INI-OBONG: This is to Confirm that INI-OBONG EDET UDO and VICTOR EDET refer to one and same person, .All documents reflecting any of the Stated names remain valid. Banks and the general public take note L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Musa Istifanus; Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and Minister of State for Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Abubakar Bwari, at the inaugural news conference by the minister, in Abuja, yesterday.

News

Tuesday, December 22, 201

CORRECTION OF NAME ABDULAZIZ: This is to inform the general public that my name was wrongly spelt as ABDULAZIZ TAYIBAT instead of ADEWUNI TABIAT ARIKE henceforth I wish to be known and addressed as ADEWUNI TABIAT ARIKE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OZOWUBA: Formerly known and addressed as MISS OZOWUBA EVERESTA AKUEZE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS UKEBUO EVERESTA AKUEZE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME KATE: Formerly known and addressed as MISS KATE OSUAGWU ONYENONACHI now wish to be known and addressed as MRS CHUKWUMA KATE ONYEBUCHI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ed to constitute an investigation panel with a view to carrying out a holistic investigation into alleged violations of human rights.” According to Angwe, the panel is expected to make recommendations to the commission on how to forestall a recurrence. He stated that the panel would investigate to determine violations of human rights on any of the parties during the clash, recommend remedies and restitution if necessary. News Agency of Nigeria reports that the five-man panel has Mr. Tony Ojukwu as its chairman, and Mr. Kabiru Elayo as secretary. Other members of the committee include Mr. Abdulrahman Yakubu; Mr. Halilu Adamu; and Mr. Babangida Labaran. Responding on behalf of the panel, Ojukwu promised that it would do its best to justify the confidence reposed in it. The panel has two months within which to submit its report. CHANGE OF NAME

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS MISS OYEWALE OYETEJU OLAWUMI NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS MRS ABIDAKUN OYETEJU OLAWUMI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE CONFIRMATION OF NAME

ADENIYI: This is to Confirm that ADENIYI ADETUTU ELIZABETH and OMOPEYE ADETUTU ELIZABETH refer to one and same person, henceforth wish to be known and addressed as OMOPEYE ADETUTU ELIZABETH . All documents reflecting any of the Stated names remain valid. Banks and the general public take note. CONFIRMATION OF NAME

MERCY: This is to Confirm that MERCY MICHAEL AKPAN and MERCY OFON -ONO refer to one and same person, .All documents reflecting any of the Stated names remain valid. Banks and the general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME EZE: Formerly known and addressed as EZE BENJAMIN CHINEDU now wish to be known and addressed as EZENYI BENJAMIN CHINEDU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME EKWEOBA: Formerly known and addressed as EKWEOBA CHUKWUEMEKA SUNDAY now wish to be known and addressed as EKWEOBA KENNETH CHUKWUEMEKA . All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

AUDU: Formerly known and addressed as AUDU FATAI ADESHINA now wish to be known and addressed as AUDU PAUL ADESHINA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

BASHIRU: Formerly known and addressed as BASHIRU OLUWASEYI WAKILU now wish to be known and addressed as ADEOLA IMOLE OLUWASEYI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME USHE: Formerly known and addressed as USHE BENEDICT now wish to be known and addressed as NENGER BENEDICT DEMESUCH . All former documents remain valid. General public take note

OSIBOTE: Formerly known and addressed as OSIBOTE BOLAJI LEKE now wish to be known and addressed as OSIBOTE ABOLAJI LEKE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

South West

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ambode moves to transform Ebute-Meta …commissions Ipaja, Ayobo, Ikotun-Ejigbo roads

L-R: General Overseer, Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye; Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi and his wife, Florence, during the state's Christmas Carol and thanksgiving service, at Agodi Gardens, Ibadan, recently.

Police chief calls for vigilance during yuletide Femi Oyeweso ABEOKUTA

gun State Police Command yesterday charged religious leaders as well as other eminent members of the public to exercise extra vigilance in order to expose activities of under-aged girls in hijab who may want to mix with large crowds during the yuletide. Commissioner of Police, Abdulmajid Ali, gave the charge while addressing journalists at the command headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta, the state capital, where he also paraded 33 suspects held in connection with various crimes. The commissioner explained that the warning

became necessary in view of the alert received in security circles, intimating security agencies that members of the Boko Haram Islamic sect were plotting to carry out "huge attacks" in unspecified parts of the country, particularly the South West. Speaking against the backdrop of some underaged girls intercepted at the Mowe/Ibafo axis of LagosIbadan Expressway while in transit to Lagos from Kano State, Ali particularly advised Ogun residents to watch out closely for teenage girls who cover their bodies with veils, stressing that such persons could be used by insurgents to convey and detonate bombs. He noted that dozens of Hausa-Fulani teenage girls, who were arrested recently

at the Mowe/Ibafo motor park by the command while being prepared to move to Lagos State by their traffickers for suspicious motives, have been sent back to Kano State. Commenting on activities of his command between July and December this year, the Ogun State CP explained that 980 suspects, who include 116 robbery suspects, 205 cultists, 38 rape suspects and seven kidnappers were arrested. Ali also added that 297 sacks of substance suspected to be Indian hemp, concealed in a frozen truck, were intercepted while on its way to Lagos State. He stated that 45 pieces of assorted arms, 125 ammunition and 69 vehicles were also arrested.

According to Ali, seven robbery suspects were killed during gun encounter with the police in different locations in the state. The police commissioner, who said his command recorded some achievements in crime fighting and prevention, paraded 35 other persons, including robbery suspects, cultists, three kidnappers and a fake soldier, Abiodun Emmanuel, who were arrested this month. He vowed that the command would continue to make the state unsafe for criminals, particularly during the yuletide, and urged residence to be vigilant against the insurgents and their accomplices in strange attires. The police commissioner also maintained that the law

agos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday unveiled plans to transform Ebute-Meta, Lagos, into a tourist haven by establishing a recreation park on the stretch of land overlooking the lagoon, adjacent to Adekunle axis of the Third Mainland Bridge. The governor, who said this during commissioning of Ipaja-Ayobo and Ikotun-Ejigbo roads, as well as during his inspection tour of ongoing projects across the state, lamented the state of the lagoon shore at the Ebute Meta axis, which he described as an eyesore. He therefore, gave the auto mechanics under the bridge seven days ultimatum to vacate the site and remove all abandoned vehicles for the development project to commence in earnest. He said all things being equal the project would be completed before end of May, 2017, when Lagos State would be 50 years old. Governor Ambode, who expressed dissatisfaction with the refusal of the mechanics to vacate the site despite repeated notice, said it was important for them to appreciate that the land is needed for overall public interest. He also ordered traders in the area to move to the special site prepared for them in Agbowa by January 2016. While at Ipaja, where he inspected the just-completed Ipaja-Ayobo road, Gov-

LAUTECH doctors dare Aregbesola, say sack threat a ‘joke’ Boladale Bamigbola OSOGBO

octors working in Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, LAUTECH, and its Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, yesterday dismissed the sack threat by Osun State government, describing it as a "joke". Medical doctors in all Osun State medical facilities have been on strike since September 28, 2015, to press home their demands for implementation of CONMESS and relativity payment,

among others. The state government, however, on Saturday, in a statement issued by permanent secretary, Human Resources and Capacity Building, Mr. Sunday Olajide, gave the striking doctors till Friday, December 25, 2015, to return to work or be sacked. Addressing newsmen in the premises of the Teaching Hospital yesterday, Chairman, Association of Resident Doctors, LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Osogbo chapter, Dr. Owolabi Adeyinka, said the allegation against the doctors that

they were being paid salaries despite being on strike is untrue. He said some of the issues for which the doctors were agitating and which include the imposition of a Federal Government tax system called PITAS, withholding of significant percentage of doctors’ salaries and persistent payment of salaries in bits to doctors, among others, were never addressed by government. According to him, resident doctors were last paid full salary in June, stressing that since then, they have

been receiving stipends that were not even up to half of their monthly pay. Owolabi said the state government, despite not paying its doctors the Federal Government approved and adjusted CONMESS and relativity payment, has been using a tax table meant for states paying CONMESS. He added that members of the association have been funding their various local and international courses, national examinations and outside postings, which according to him, should be

the responsibility of their employer. He insisted that the Association of Resident Doctors was not affiliated to the labour movement; hence, no union could sign any agreement on their behalf on issues relating to welfare of members. Owolabi, however, expressed readiness of the association to dialogue with government on some of the issues, but warned against plunging the state health sector into needless chaos over the matter with the sack threat.

ernor Ambode promised to commence construction works on Ishefun-Ayetoro road, just as he assured residents that Alimosho would soon become the new Victoria Island. The governor also formally commissioned the Ikotun-Ejigbo road and assured residents that street lights would be installed on the road from Ikotun roundabout to the Isolo campus of the Lagos State Polytechnic within three months. The governor also inspected the ongoing construction work in Brown Street in Oshodi where he was briefed by Mr. Baha, the project manager of Lobrics Construction Company. The governor said the project which commenced about six weeks ago, is now over 40 per cent completed, just as he expressed optimism that residents of the area would enjoy the benefits of the new road when completed. After being briefed by the executive secretary of Oshodi Local Government Area, Adeola Olajobi Dawood, on the challenges of the adjourning Igbehinadun and Inasa streets, the governor ordered the Public Works Corporation to rehabilitate both streets within the next seven days. While charging the contractor to ensure the completion of Brown Street by the end of February 2016, the governor also urged the residents to continue to cooperate with the contractor so as to deliver the projects within the stipulated time. At the Oshodi Resettlement Market, Governor Ambode ordered the Public Works Corporation to resurface the car park in the market in preparation for its reopening. Governor Ambode also advised the developer of the market to consider a rent-to-own modality for the acquisition of the shops, adding that a monthly payment plan would prevent the shops from being hijacked by businessmen.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South West

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Lagos launches contributory scheme for holy pilgrimages Francis Suberu

agos State government has launched contributory scheme for Hajj and Jerusalem holy pilgrimages to provide financial aid for prospective pilgrims from the state. Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, who launched the scheme yesterday, restated his commitment to make holy pilgrimages easier for every citizen of the state who wants to go to Mecca on Hajj or Jerusalem to visit the Holy Land. Speaking after launch of the scheme also known as "Pay Small Small Scheme", Ambode said with the

scheme, petty traders and other low income earners would be able to fulfill their religious obligations in a more convenient way. The governor, who described the scheme as one of his administration’s strategies to create an enabling environment for every resident to feel the impact of government, said more approaches were underway to make life better for the citizens irrespective of tribe, religion and other differences. Represented by Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef, the governor said:"It is a contributory scheme for all pilgrimages, whether Jerusalem or Mecca. The all

inclusive administration of Governor Ambode is meant to carry along even the less privileged in the society to ensure that even with N50,000, you can begin to pay for your pilgrimage to Mecca, Medina, Rome and Jerusalem. “We have partnered with micro finance firm that will allow people to choose either three, two years or one year contributory scheme for the pilgrimage depending on the ability of such person. In fact, there is a package of N1,500 daily contribution scheme for the pilgrimage. “The government wants to ensure that people are carried along and they are able to discharge their religious duties without stress. So, to

the ordinary trader, it is an avenue to fulfill their obligations. One way of alleviating poverty is to carry the people along and assure them of a place in the heart of government." Ambode also honoured Managing Director of MedView Airline for partnering with the state government in airlifting pilgrims in the state. Managing Director of Med-View, Mr Bankole, commended the government for the initiative. He expressed optimism that with the kind of leadership in the country, he has no doubt that the handlers would exhibit professionalism and integrity.

Lagos approves free LAGBUS/ BRT ride for physically-challenged Francis Suberu

agos State government has approved that henceforth all physically-challenged citizens will ride, free of charge, on all Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and LAGBUS buses across all routes where the services are available in the state. A statement signed by Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, on Monday, directed that all buses operating under the BRT and LAGBUS franchise must pick physically challenged passengers free of charge. He said the directive takes effect immediately. The commissioner also urged Lagosians commuting on the roads to continue to obey traffic laws as well as traffic officers when commuting on the road, especially during the yuletide

season. “It has become necessary to state this against the background of observed huge traffic gridlock experienced at this festive period. The situation reflects the disdain of motorists for traffic laws and officers on the one hand, and gross indiscipline exhibited by motorists on the other. “For the avoidance of doubt, please note that traffic officers, whether men of Nigeria Police, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, or Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, are there to serve us, but will view infractions with the eye of the law”. “While we wish you all a very happy festive period, we urge you to please ensure that safety is priority for both passengers and drivers alike. Please, observe all rudiments of safe commuting by obeying the traffic regulations,” Mobereola said.

FUOYE denies owing five months salaries Abiodun Nejo ADO EKITI

F L-R: Lagos State Commisioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde; Executive Secretary, Mosan Okunola Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mrs. Opeyemi Akindele; Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and Commissioner for the Environment, Dr. Babatunde Adejare, during the commissioning of Ipaja-Ayobo road, yesterday.

Matthew Irinoye

Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, yesterday sentenced Mrs. Ronke Idowu Rosulu, a former court registrar, to 10-year imprisonment for allegedly defrauding General Ishaya Bamaiyi (rtd) to the tune of $330,000. Justice Lateef Lawal-Akapo sentenced the defendant, having found her guilty of two-count charge of obtaining money by false pretense and conspiracy to defraud leveled against her by the Economics and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC. Delivering his judgment, Justice Lawal-Akapo held that the evidence of the prosecution was overwhelming and that the prosecution has been able to prove their case

Ex-court registrar bags 10-year jail term over $330,000 fraud beyond reasonable doubt. “I found out that the accused visited 'Kirikiri prison on October 23, November 6 and November 20, 2004. “The judge held that the prosecution called six witnesses and tendered 10 exhibits to prove the case, and that an accused person can be convicted based on a confessional statement and circumstantial evidence." The judge held that Bamaiyi’s testimony that the defendant collected the money was neither challenged nor contradicted. “I have read thoroughly the final written address of the prosecution and the defense counsels and I have

also studied the case file on the issues submitted by both parties. “I hereby found out the conspiracy to defraud against the defendant." The judge added that as a court registrar, "the defendant is supposed to be an image maker, but she decided to do contrary." “I therefore, sentenced the defendant to 10 years imprisonment on each count," the judge held. It would be recalled that Mrs. Idowu Rosulu, who started her career as a court registrar about 34 years ago, was arraigned on a twocount charge of conspiracy to obtain money by false pre-

tence and obtaining money by false pretence. The EFCC had alleged that a Lagos socialite, Fred Ajudua, was able to defraud Bamaiyi by claiming to have close ties with Justice Oyewole, before whom Bamaiyi was standing trial. The charge read in part: “Rosulu Idowu Oluronke, Fred Chijindu Ajudua, Alumile Adedeji a.k.a. Ade Bendel (still at large), one Mr. Jonathan (still at large), one Mr. Kenneth (still at large), Princess Hamabon William (still at large) and others still at large, on November 20, 2004, in Lagos within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, with intent to defraud.

ederal University, Oye Ekiti, Ekiti State, has debunked rumour making rounds that the institution owes workers five months salaries. Vice Chancellor, Professor Isaac Azuzu, who described the rumour as an attempt by some union leaders to discredit the management, said workers' salaries were being paid directly by the Federal Government as and when due. Azuzu told journalists in Oye Ekiti yesterday that unions of the institution went on strike recently over agitation for immediate payment of hazard and relocation allowances. The VC, however, cautioned the union leaders against moves that could pitch the management against the entire workforce, saying payment of their demands was practically impossible for now in view of paucity of funds in the university. Asuzu said that as much as the management would continue to prioritise workers’ welfare and engage the unions in resolving all issues, the university would

not hesitate to wield the big stick against unruly staff. Asuzu dismissed the impression by some union leaders that the hazard allowance could be defrayed through funds from predegree programme, saying the university realised N21 million yearly from the programme, while it required N37.1 million monthly to pay the allowance. Although they had all suspended their action, the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, SSANU, Non-Academic Staff Union, NASU, and National Association of Technologists, NAT, had gone on strike over nonpayment of allowances to the 1,469 workers in the university. The VC, who rated the university high compared to eight others established by former President Goodluck Jonathan, said all the 29 courses being run in the institution had been accredited by the National Universities Commission. He also said the employment of the university was not skewed in favour of South Easterners as being rumoured, adding that Ekiti and Ondo top the chart with 793 and 143 workers, respectively.

South East

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FG tasks c’ttee to restore services at FMC Owerri

ederal Government yesterday charged the five-man Interim Management Committee, IMC, to restore humane healthcare services at the Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Owerri, Imo State. It would be recalled that the FMC, Owerri, was temporarily shut on December 16, by the Federal Ministry of Health to enable government reorganise, re-strategise and redefine the rules of engagement. Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, gave the task while briefing newsmen in Abuja. Adewole said Prof. Ndubisi Eke would head the IMC, while Dr. Bridget Akin-Otiko would head nursing services in the centre. He said Mr. Michael Okereke would head the accounts department; Mr. Ayo Olagunju, administration, while Mr. Abdu Msheliza would head the pharmacy department. According to Adewole, the committee is to prepare a comprehensive report and recommendations, including imple-

mentation strategy on effective management of the centre within six months from its inauguration. He said the industrial crisis in the hospital started in April 2015, and has completely paralysed activities there, adding that the proposal was vehemently opposed by people who may have been benefiting from the system and went on to incite the unions. He said the workers, among other things, accused the medical director of misappropriation of funds for which she was not found guilty. Adewole said in a situation where the FMC, Owerri, is the only functional hospital in the state at the moment, any disruption of its services “shows how bad our value system has degenerated.” According to him, the workers’ decision to resort to strike and disruption of services is contrary to the overall development of the country. The minister said strikes could only be deployed as a weapon when dialogue has failed.

Pan-Igbo group urges FG to dialogue with agitators

pan-Igbo group, Ndigbo Unity Forum, NUF, has advised the Federal Government to immediately commence dialogue with key members of all agitating groups in the country, especially Igbo leaders. President of the forum, Comrade Augustine Chukwudum, made the call in Enugu on Monday while reacting to the order of the Federal High Court for unconditional release of Director of Radio Biafra, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu. Chukwudum told the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, that the order had given some respite to the country, especially the South East. The president also lauded the court for the order, describing it as democratic. “Even before now, the NUF has not supported any secession. By getting

close to the agitators, it is clear that it is all about perceived marginalisation of the South East in the scheme of things. “The denial of the zone to be at par with other zones both in structure as well as political and economic opportunities resulted in the agitation. “The NUF calls on the Federal Government to convoke a meeting with Igbo elders, leaders and organisations such as Ohaneze Ndigbo and the NUF. “We strongly believe that dialogue opens a window for intellectual, sound and constructive solution to youth unrest and widespread protests in the South East,” he said. Chukwudum, however, urged the youth to be patient to see the new tidings the change mantra of the All Progressives Government administration would bring.

Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano (2nd-right); his wife, Eberechukwu, and other officials, at the commissioning of 95 per cent completed Arroma Flyover to ease traffic congestion during the Yuletide, in Awka, yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

Alleged N53m demand stalls Okorocha’s nominees screening Chris Njoku OWERRI

lleged inability of political appointees in Imo State to collectively pay a levy of N53 million imposed on them by the House of Assembly lawmakers has stalled their screening. It was gathered yesterday that the House’s Ad-hoc Committee set up to screen commissioners and council transition chairmen-nominees forwarded to the House by Governor Rochas Okorocha more than two weeks ago suspended the screening exercise indefinitely because the appointees were unable to pay N2 million and N1 million respectively, our investigation revealed. National Mirror gathered from one of the nominees that the Ad-Hoc Committee of the House

27-year-old man, Peter Nweke, yesterday admitted that his gang was paid N12m ransom when they abducted Prof Kamene Okonjo in 2013. A statement from the police in Enugu said Nweke, who hails from Umumba Ndiagu in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, made the disclosure during interrogation. The suspect said he was contacted by one Ifeanyi Chukwuemeka from Iselle Uku in Delta State, who linked him to one of Okonjo's family members, who helped them to perfect the

headed by Deputy Speaker, Hon Ugonna Ozuruigbo, allegedly demanded the money as a pre-condition for the nominees’ screening. According to our source, the action of the lawmakers may not be unconnected with Governor Okorocha’s refusal to pay their allowances as well as provide them with new vehicles since their inauguration last June. The source, who pleaded anonymity, disclosed that Governor Okorocha’s attempt to resolve the issue during his recent meeting with members and leadership of the Assembly at Government House hit a brick wall, as the legislators stuck to their guns, insisting on collecting the imposed levy. Also, one of the transition committee chairmennominees, who did not want his name mentioned, said

he has been running helterskelter to source the N1 million demanded by members of the Assembly. Said he: "Since the House members have decided that for any transition committee chairman-nominee to be screened, he must pay N1 million, I have been running around to raise the money after the intervention of the governor failed." But in a swift reaction, Hon. Ozuruigbo denied the allegation, saying it was a mere rumour, as there was no time the ad hoc committee of the House demanded any money as a precondition for screening nominees. “It is a mere rumour because the screening committee has never requested money from any of the nominees. We have already screened six of them and what has stalled the screening of other nominees is the

deluge of petitions received by the committee; at our plenary, the matter was raised and it was decided that the committee should look into all serious petitions, while frivolous ones should be dismissed," he stated. He further disclosed that the House leadership had also met with Governor Okorocha on petitions against some of the nominees, particularly those accused of being ex-convicts. "We have even met with the governor to discuss some of the weighty allegations against some of the nominees particularly those accused of being ex-convicts because we did not want to embarrass the governor. So, the allegation that the ad hoc committee had demanded money from the nominees is totally false," he added.

Kidnap: I got N12m ransom from Okonjo-Iweala’s mother —Suspect kidnap. He said Chukwuemeka disguised as a corps member seeking assistance and entered the compound and made away with the mother of the former Finance Minister, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala. Nweke also told the police that his gang abducted a pastor’s wife and her friend, as well as their driver in Ugwuoba, Oji River in Enugu State last October. He said they demanded

N4 million but later got N1.12m from the victim. The statement signed by the spokesman of the police in Enugu State, Mr. Ebere Amaraizu, stated that the anti-kidnap unit of the command arrested the suspect, who escaped to Cotonou after the kidnap of Okonjo. The statement said the suspect resurfaced in 2015 with another gang, which included Ifeanyi Chukwuemeka and Ali Salli

from Adamawa, both residing in Sabon Kashua, Asaba in Delta State. The suspect said he had been in kidnap business for four years, adding that poverty drove him into the crime. “I needed money to acquire AK-47 and pump action gun from one Musa from Adamawa State at Sabon Kashua, Asaba, through one of his cohorts, Ali Sali, to make the business easier,” Nweke said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

It took 12 years to establish Mountain Top University —Olukoya Tunbosun Ogundare

eneral Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, Dr. Daniel Olukoya, has revealed that it took the church 12 years to establish Mountain Top University, which was officially inaugurated yesterday with about 220 pioneer students for academic activities. He made the revelation while addressing audience during official opening and matriculation ceremony of the university, located within the premises of Prayer City, Ibafo, Ogun State. Wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode; Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Professor Tolu Odugbemi,

wife of general overseer of the mission, Pastor Shade Olukoya, and Director of Private Universities’ Establishment, National Universities Commission, Professor Akaneren Essien, are among dignitaries at the event. Olukoya, a former lecturer and expert in Molecular Biology, noted that the university had to walk that long journey to enable it provide state-of-the-art facilities, qualified manpower as well as fulfill all necessary conditions as stipulated by the National Universities Commission for the new university to take-off. While disclosing that the university, which he declared open exactly at 12:16pm was an offshoot of his 70-point agenda designed to rescue youths from the

streets and prepare them to become useful to themselves, families and the society, Olukoya pointed out that the university was not for commercial purposes. He disclosed that the university would cater for indigent but brilliant students using scholarship endowment funds to finance their education, noting that 15 scholarship slots were already on ground for grabs. The general overseer, who is also the visitor to the university, however, urged the new intakes to be diligent and remain committed to their studies and shun all forms of ill practices, including immorality and cultism. In his address, Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Elijah Ayolabi, said the management would do

what is required to achieve the vision and mission of the university. He disclosed that the fully residential university was starting with two colleges, Basic and Applied Sciences as well as Humanities, Management and Social Sciences, both running 15 courses that have been duly accredited by the NUC. The vice-chancellor, who is a Professor of Applied Geophysics from the University of Lagos, Akoka, said it was because the university is not after monetary benefit that it is charging fees that are not only affordable, but very low compared to the quality of service and facilities that will be available to students. He disclosed that the university, which he said would

Concerned Youth Movement of Ibasa Ijegun Egba, protesting oil spillage, environmental degradation and Deplorable roads due to movement of petrol tankers in the area, in Lagos, yesterday.

admit any qualified student irrespective of their religion and ethnic backgrounds, would have charged each student something close to N2 million per session if quality of service and facili-

Defection of Mimiko's associates, a morale booster —APC Ojo Oyewamide AKURE

ndo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, yesterday described defection of Governor Olusegun Mimiko's political associates, Pius Osunyinkanmi and Ayo Akinyelure, to the party as a welcome development. Akinyelure represented Ondo Central in the last Senate, while Osunyikanmi, former Commissioner for Education, is current Director-General of Technical Aids Corps, TAC. The two former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftains announced in a joint press statement on Sunday that they have joined the APC to fulfill the political aspirations of the people. In a statement by its Director of Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro, APC saluted their courage and resolve to align with the change agenda of the Federal Government and determination to work with others to effect the necessary change in the administration of Ondo State. “As a party poised to take government in the state and change the socio-economic fortunes of the citizenry, the politicians' decision to

Make humility your watchword, Adeboye charges Nigerian leaders Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

igerian leaders in every sphere of endeavour have been charged to make humility their watchword in order not to fall from grace to grass. General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, gave the admonition at the Oyo State 2015 Christmas Carol and Thanksgiving Service held at Agodi Gardens, Ibadan, the state capital. He said many leaders had fallen from the ladder of success due to lack of humility. Speaking in the same

vein, Governor Abiola Ajimobi expressed optimism that Nigeria would experience divine visitation in the new year and triumph over its current economic challenges and unrest in the Northern part of the country. The occasion witnessed an assemblage of eminent personalities, clerics, politicians and Christian faithful and choristers from different churches, who all expressed appreciation to God through singing and dancing for witnessing this year’s carol service. Present on the occasion were wife of the governor, Florence Ajimobi; Speaker of Oyo State House of As-

sembly, Michael Adeyemo, the Chief Judge, Justice Munta Abimbola, and General Officer Commanding, GOC, 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major-General Laz Ilo. Also present were Senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Senator Soji Akanbi, Hon. Abiodun Awoleye; retired Prelate of the Methodist Church, Archbishop Sunday Ola Makinde, the General Evangelist of Christ Apostolic Church, CAC, Pastor Samuel Abiara, Reverend (Mrs.) Tola Oyediran, Chief (Mrs.) Priscilla Kuye. Others are the General Overseer, Living Spring Ministry; Pastor Femi Emman-

uel; Founder, Word Communication Ministries, Apostle Sunday Popoola; Prophet Ojo Olowere of CAC; Presiding Pastor, Scripture Pasture Christian Centre, Pastor Olubi Johnson and traditional rulers, among others. The choir from the University of Ibadan, put up a spectacular performance with rendition of melodious carols. While quoting copiously from the scriptures, Pastor Adeboye cited the example of the biblical Samson, whom he said was forsaken by God due to his disobedience to the divine directions and lack of humility and thus fell into the hands of his enemies.

ties to enjoy are considered, but charged between N450, 000 and N520, 000 per session depending on courses of study with those in sciences paying higher so as to make it very affordable.

He stressed the need for all mortals to be closer to their creator, live a holy life, and submit themselves to His will so as to succeed in their divinely ordainedassignments here on earth. According to him, anybody whom God is against or is neutral concerning his life and affairs could never witness any breakthrough in whatever he dabbles into. The governor assured the people of the state that the state would be better placed in terms of socio-economic development in the coming years, stressing that with divine intervention and economic re-engineering, Oyo would overcome its current challenges.

join the party was a morale booster. "We assure them that the APC in the state is open, ready and prepared to accept them into its fold and treat them with all the respect they deserve. "This present move by these gentlemen and their supporters should serve as an encouragement and eyeopener to all progressives still in the PDP and other parties to do the needful by joining the APC. We urge them to take action now by joining hands with us to end the strange rule of one man in the state," the statement reads. However, the state’s chapter of PDP said the defectors were driven by their personal agenda and not the interest of people of the state. The party, which stated this in a statement by its Director of Publicity, Ayo Fadaka, said the two politicians had embarked on a journey to political irrelevance. Fadaka said the last senatorial election showed that Akinyelure, who was candidate of the party, had lost relevance in the state’s politics. He added that Osunyikanmi defected to APC because he was trying to save his appointment with the Federal Government as Director General of Directorate of Technical Aids Corps. He said: "We note the fact that the party failed the Senatorial election in the Central Senatorial District where we fielded Akinyelure because the people of the district are yet to forgive him for voting in favour of child marriage during his era of absolute unproductivity while he was a senator. "We also understand the fact that Osunyikanmi remains an appointee of the Federal Government and is also desirous of keeping his job. We take very serious view of the action of these gentlemen and have since come to the conclusion that their action was absolutely propelled by personal goals dictated by their individual ambitions."

North

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Mining: FG to enforce ‘use it or lose it’ licence regime CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

ederal Government has said that starting from March 1, 2016, it will commence enforcement of ‘Use it or lose it’ doctrine enshrined in the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who disclosed this during his inaugural press briefing in Abuja yesterday, said from now till March 2016 will be considered an amnesty period to

allow regularisation of papers. Fayemi described the moribund state of Ajaokuta Steel Company as a collective shame, adding that the massive project should not be allowed to waste because of the nation’s resources already invested in the project and its immense potentials. Fayemi said that plans were on ground to fix Ajaokuta Steel Company for it to commence full operation in no distant time. The minister also said the legal issue and finan-

cial issues stopping Ajaokuta Steel from working on full capacity were being taken care of. According to Fayemi, “I am very confident that before the first quarter of 2016, we will have a direction as to whether we are taking it over and running it ourselves or resolving the legal issues involved and allowing this to determine who gets to run Ajaokuta. “Fortunately, it’s not just Ajaokuta on its own, it’s a package, we have the Itakpe Iron Ore Company and we have the Delta

Steel Company caught in the web of the whole legal issue, we need to disentangle them and agree the way forward between ourselves and Ministry of Justice, BPE and the interested players, we will certainly see that as a priority.” The minister further stated that regarding infrastructures and the financial commitment made to Ajaokuta Steel, there is need to get it running again. When asked the amount needed to fix Ajaokuta Steel Company, the min-

ister said; “fixing Ajaokuta is not the matter of the plants alone, it is also the matter of the infrastructure that will make Ajaokuta perform better, you cannot bring in cooking coal, which is what is needed in the manufacturing of steel, except you do so by the seaport, even when you produce the steel, the central rail line that we have only end in Abuja and Kaduna now, you need the central rail line to also move from Abuja to Lokoja and then develop spur lines that will join the existing standard gage rail that have been put there. On international conspiracy hindering the

company to function, Fayemi said no international conspiracy can stop the government from fixing e Ajaokuta Steel to its full capacity. Speaking further on the solid minerals sector, Fayemi said the sector contributes N400 billion in value to the economy, and have the capacity to create over one million direct jobs. “On current data, Nigeria’s solid minerals sector makes up about 0.34 per cent of gross domestic product, GDP. It means that based on current official exchange rates, the mining sector contributes N400 billion in value to the economy,” he added.

Gunmen kill 3 policemen in Gombe WILLIAMS ATTAH GOMBE

L-R: Director Special Duties, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mr. Felix Ogenhi; Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and Director General, Michael Imoudu National Institute of Labour Studies (MINILS), Dr John Niyi Olanrewaju, during the 0fficial commissioning of MINILS’ auditorium in Ilorin, yesterday.

Kogi guber poll: Faleke sues INEC at tribunal WALE IBRAHIM LOKOJA

ll Progressives Congress, APC, running mate in the November 21 governorship election in Kogi State, James Abiodun Faleke, has filed a petition at the Kogi State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, challenging the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, declaring the election inconclusive. Faleke, who came with Mohammed Audu, son of the late governorship candidate of APC, Prince Abubakar Audu, and other party stalwarts, as well as his lawyers, filed his petition at about 12:20pm on Monday in Lokoja. Faleke, who is running mate to the late Prince

Abubakar Audu, APC gubernatorial candidate, signed all necessary papers as required by the rule of the tribunal in filing a petition. The tribunal secretary, Mr Akanji Akinlabi, stated that he could not disclose the grounds and prayers of the petition now, as it was yet to become public document. Thousands of APC members and supporters thronged the premises of the High Court, Lokoja, venue of the tribunal, to witness the event. Speaking with newsmen after filing the petition, Faleke said he has confidence in the judiciary to dispense justice, adding that he did not join APC, his party, as one of the respondents. He pointed out that the

petition dragged INEC before the tribunal to challenge its decision in declaring the election inconclusive since the election, by all standards, was concluded and won by the

APC Audu/Faleke ticket. Mohammed Audu, who also spoke, restated his support for Faleke in line with the decision of elders and family of his late father.

alpable tension pervades Gombe town following the gruesome murder of three policemen and a civilian by yet-to-be identified gunmen at the official quarters of an Arab Construction firm, Triacta Construction Company, over the weekend. According to a source, the heavily armed men numbering about 10 and armed with AK-47 rifles, forced their way into the estate occupied by Arab staff between 7 and 7:30pm on Saturday, shooting sporadically and killing the generator operator of the estate. However, in an exchange of fire with policemen on duty at the residence, three of the policemen lost their lives while the gunmen were said to have escaped with bullet wounds.

Confirming the incidence to newsmen on Monday evening, Gombe State Police Command’s spokesman, DSP Fwaje Atajiri, stated that the surprise attack lasted about 35 minutes as the police exchanged fire with the assailants. When pressed for more details, Atajiri declined further comments, saying he would not like to pre-empt police investigations, but disclosed that they have gone far in their investigations. He called for calm among residents following the incident and assured that the police would ensure a hitchfree Christmas celebration in Gombe State. He also called on the people to place high premium on their security by putting their ears to the ground, keeping their eyes wide open and reporting to the police any suspicious activities around them.

Kaduna transit rail: German, Chinese coys, others prequalified A ZA MSUE KADUNA

aduna State’s proposed mass transit rail system yesterday got 12 companies prequalified as developers and operators of the scheme. In a statement by Governor Nasir el-Rufai’s spokesman, Samuel Aruwan, French, German, Canadian, Indian and Chinese companies top the list of firms seeking to clinch the five lots that constitute the metropoli-

tan rail network. The statement said eighteen companies submitted bids in response to a government advertisement for expressions of interest by investors to build a rail-based mass transit network in metropolitan Kaduna. Aruwan added that French giant, Alstom, Germany’s Gauff, and several Chinese corporations and a consortium led by Infrastructure Bank are among bidders. The statement reads: “The Kaduna State Ex-

ecutive Council has considered the report of the bid evaluation committee, and has approved that the 12 companies that scored highest in the bid evaluation should be invited to submit preliminary designs, business plans and evidence of financial capability within the next 21 days. “The designs and business plans submitted by these 12 companies will be further evaluated to select the preferred and reserved bidders for each of the five routes envisaged

for the rail network/ “The proposed routes include Green Line (Urban Rail A): Millennium City to Rigasa, through Katsina Road, Orange Line (Urban Rail B): Mararaban Rido via Sir Patrick Yakowa Way to Jabi Road, Red Line (Urban Rail C): Mararaban Rido to Zaria Expressway via Ahmadu Bello Way, Yellow Line (Urban Rail D): Sabon Tasha to Mando through Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway, Pink Line (Urban Rail E): Kakau to Rigasa”

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

SUPER TUESDAY PDP promoted political banditry for 16 years –Umeh

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

14, 35

Meeting Lagosians’ yearnings through the People’s Budget Francis Suberu

he 2016 budget of N662.588billion presented by the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode to the State House of Assembly last week is the highest in recent time. It will be recalled that the 2014 budget was N489.69 billion which is essentially the same as the 2015 budget before it was reordered at the last quarter of 2015 with about N26 billion. The 2016 budget, christened “The Peoples Budget,” was presented amidst high hopes and expectations from Lagosians, who have been anxious of significant improvement on whatever gains brought into the state’s economy and the polity by the immediate past administration of Babatunde Fashola(SAN). Ambode’s Curriculum Vitae as a former AccountantGeneral of the state, who successfully managed Lagos finances at a period when the state’s economy was brought to its knees following the seizure of the state’s federal allocation speaks volume and compel confidence in his ability to come up with people’s budget that should attend to the yearnings of Lagosians. Prior to the reordering exercise, the Year 2015 budget performed at 59 per cent and 63 per cent in the first and second quarter respectively, while sequel to the reordering, the government commenced diligent implementation of the budget, and at the end of the third quarter, as a stand- alone, the budget performed at 69 per cent, with the cumulative performance from January to September improving to 65 per ssscent. Before going into breakdown of the year 2016 budget, Governor Ambode, while presenting the budget to the House, had expressed optimism that by the end of the last quarter of 2015, there would be a tremendous improvement in the performance because of the fact that his administration had invested heavily on critical infrastructure development since the reordering exercise was completed. Giving the scorecard of his administration, the Governor said: “I am also pleased to inform you that upon assumption of office, our government has introduced far reaching reforms targeted at reducing the cost of governance in order to channel more funds to provision of key infrastructure. The reforms and subsequent reorganisation of the ministries, departments and agencies have resulted in savings which have been used to intervene in critical sectors of our state especially in enhancing security and road construction.” The Governor added: “We have worked assiduously since we assumed office to consolidate on the progress that this State has recorded since the return to democracy. To reduce the deficit in infrastructure, this Administration has completed the construction/ maintenance of 18 major roads. The roads include: Bale Yehwenu Street, Aradagun, Badagry, Akinrinlo Street, Adenuja Kajero Street, and Ilara Palace Road all in Somolu LGA. Others include Babatunde Bakare Street, Palace, Oligbe, Shrine, Mosque, Back of Palace, and Eluku Roads all in Epe LGA. Other roads completed are Pa Olakesin Okeogun Street and Oriokuta Road, Owutu in Ikorodu LGA and Ailegun and Kike Adeyemi streets in Oshodi-Isolo LGA.” “In addition to the above, construction works are on- go-

Ambode

ing on 167 other road projects, notable amongst them are, Lagos- Badagry, Afa Nla road in Agege; while a total of 131 roads were rehabilitated through sectional resurfacing and overlay of roads spread across the State to stem road degradation, and the attendant traffic gridlock resulting in man-hour waste.” “The health sector also received our attention with the injection of 26 new Ambulances, creation of 14 additional LASAMBUS operational points, the installation of X-ray machines at Ijede and Amuwo-Odofin General Hospitals and, the hand-over of the Ikorodu General Hospital Accident & Emergency Centre and Agbala Paediatric Health Centre, Ikorodu, just to mention a few. Our commitment to education and UNESCO goal of 26% sectoral allocation to education remains very strong,” Governor Ambode said. After all said and done, the Governor thereafter presented the Year 2016 Budget proposal of N662.588billion to the House of Assembly, with a pledge that his administration will not only implement the budget faithfully, but also ensure that it works in the best interest of Lagosians. The Governor who christened the 2016 budget “The Peoples Budget” said it is an improvement of 26 per cent over the budgets of 2014 and 2015 respectively which stood at N489.6 Billion individually. “The increase will enable our government to focus on the present challenges of security, traffic gridlock resolution including physical and social infrastructural development which has thrown up new challenges quite different from what we used to experience and have always known”, he said. He said the 2016 budget which is the first full budget of the present administration will promote massive invest-

ment in Security, Transport and Traffic management, Physical and Social Infrastructural development and enhance job creation. He said the intention of his government is to use the 2016 budget to strategically build new infrastructure, as well as maintain existing ones, adding that wealth and employment creation will also receive adequate attention in the course of the year. Giving a breakdown of the budget figures, Governor Ambode put the Recurrent Expenditure at N278,909bn while Capital Expenditure stands at N383,678bn, explaining that the Capital to Recurrent ratio is 58:42 as against 51:49 in 2014 and 2015. Governor Ambode also put the total revenue estimate for 2016 fiscal year at N542.873Billion saying the balance of N119.714billion will be funded through deficit financing constituting 0.41 per cent of the state GDP based on 2016 budget alone and a cumulative debt to GDP ratio of about 3 per cent. On the size of the budget, the Governor earmarked N120,508,571,598 for General Public Services representing 18.19 per cent, N28,559,021,841 to Public Order and Safety, representing 4.31 per cent, while Economic Affairs received a lion share of N211,043,408,183 representing 31.85 per cent. In other sectors, Environment got 8.1 percent of the budget totalling N53,043,599,505; Housing and Community Amenities, got N62,713,091,867 representing 9.46 per cent; Health got N64,677,679,096 representing 9.76 per cent; while Recreation, Culture and Religion got N4,636,917,054 which is 0.70 per cent of the budget. Education sector also received N113,379,337,664 representing 17.11 per cent of the budget, while Social Protection got N4,025,980,116, which is 0.61 per cent of the budget. Governor Ambode said that due to the falling oil prices, the budget is pegged on $38 dollar per barrel saying it was in line to maintain a conservative approach in estimating the Federal allocation for 2016. “Fiscal Federalism and according Lagos a Special Status will benefit the State as we implore the Federal Government to look into this as soon as possible. As you are aware, the Federal Government still owes Lagos State over N50billion expended on federal roads in Lagos State. We look forward to an early refund to enable us utilize the fund on other infrastructure that require attention”, the Governor said. Explaining some of the highlights of the Budget, Governor Ambode said the State Government will commence the A-Meal- a-Day Programme in the State Public Primary Schools from next year, adding that it will be done in collaboration with the Federal Government, which will provide 60 per cent of the funding, while the State Government will match it with 40 per cent. “This programme promises not only to improve the daily nutrition of our children, it will also create an economy of its own, with opportunities for job creation, income generation, poverty alleviation, and so on”. “I am happy to inform you that in 2016 we will develop our e-Curriculum, leading to the distribution of Ibile Tablets to students in our public schools. This revolution, at the Secondary School level, will set a new standard in our CONTINUED ON PAGE 37

Politics

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

PDP promoted political banditry The Appeal Court in Enugu nullified the election of your opponent, Uche Ekwunife of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP as senator representing Anambra Central senatorial district. How do you feel about this judgment? Well, I will first of all say that I am happy that the Court of Appeal did not sustain the electoral heist that took place in Anambra State early this year. By coming with a decision that election should be repeated, at least, is an improvement from the previous impression being bandied about that the election was good, and that Hon. Uche Ekwunife, won the election. I cried out from the onset that the election was marred with reckless impunity. I also pointed out that the environment under which that election was conducted was skewed against other candidates in the election, other than the PDP candidate. The PDP candidate submitted list of all the ad-hoc staff employed by INEC for that exercise and during the election proper, the military were deployed to her full use and we were pushed out of the election. But, we managed to hold on to that election and of course, garnered votes that actually won that election. But, through the manipulation of the PDP and INECthey first of all announced a scandalous figure, 101548 for the PDP and myself 77129. Ngige got 20,000 votes-the candidate of APC. Of course, we were very distressed by the outcome of the exercise as announced by INEC and the only thing to do, like I have always done was to go to the Tribunal to seek redress. And at the Tribunal, we were able to show that the result announced by INEC was false because we recalculated the figures we saw on the certified true copies of the results given to us by INEC and saw instead on addition that PDP got 93860 on the face value instead of 101548 and my votes on the face value was 85898 instead of 77129. So, it immediately cast total doubt in the election. And when we filed our petition, they accepted that the results announced by INEC was wrong. That instead, what we added up was the result but they accepted it, claiming they are still leading, even at that. Were there other issues you took to the Tribunal? Another issue we took to the tribunal was that she was not validly nominated. You are aware that PDP in Anambra State has been factionalized in the past 12 years. And before the primaries started, internal squabbles in the PDP took a heavy toll on the party, necessitating that Uche Ekwunife and her group became candidates without going through any primaries or any process as provided by the Electoral Act. These are the issues we took to the Tribunal because the Tribunal agreed that the election results announced by INEC was false and said nothing beyond that. If those figures were wrong, it must have obvious consequences on the election because election is not a rule of thumb business. You must be precise and accurate in figures you allot to candidates in an election. You don’t just say this man got 200,000 and tomorrow, you say he got 150 and you expect somebody who is a judge to accept that the election was conducted in substantial compliance with the Electoral Act. It cannot be. So, these were the things we brought to the Tribunal and of course, because they were there to do a hatchet job, they turned their eyes away from the matters that we brought to Court. I proceeded to the Court of Appeal. What motivated you to go to appeal, considering the skewed judgment delivered by the Tribunal in your petition? I am not a stranger to wrong decisions of lower courts. In Nigeria, I think I have been able to use the judicial process to show that most times, the lower courts lack the courage to dispense justice according to Law. So, when we got to the Court of Appeal, the obvious thing happened. That election was nullified. For me, I thought they should have declared me winner outrightly. We were able to prove that she had an invalid nomination.

Chief Victor Umeh is the immediate past national chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA. He contested for the Anambra Central Senatorial seat, after which Uche Ekwunife was declared winner by the INEC. Umeh in this interview with EMMANUEL EZEH shortly after the Court of Appeal ordered a rerun of the election, pronounces the PDP dead in Anambra State. Excerpts.

Umeh

PDP promoted corruption in Nigeria. They thought that it is going to continue that way. I mean, he that has committed no offence has no reason to be afraid of any probe.

Look at the revelations coming out now, the way monies were shared and PDP should bury its head in shame

Even though the text of the full judgment will come out in two days time, we will look at it and see the reasons for arriving at nullification. You know, be that as it has happened, we are still grateful to the judiciary that they didn’t allow the fraud to stand in favour of the PDP candidate. So, we are grateful to the judiciary for coming to this just decision, that at least she did not win that election, unlike what she has been telling people everywhere, prancing around that she defeated Victor Umeh silly. I think she has shut up her mouth now.

How ready are you for the repeat elections? Ever ready. Our people more than ever are ready. In fact, I slept by 4.00am today. From the pronouncement of that judgment and the breaking of the news till now; I have four telephones; they have been ringing all at a time. Since, yesterday, even by 4.00am, people were even calling from outside Nigeria. People who didn’t know the time in Nigeria were calling me at odd times and I was busy replying text messages until 4.00am. So, I used that to gauge the mood of the people. Our people are so

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

A PUBLICATION OF NATIONAL MIRROR NEWSPAPERS

Power outage: Ughelli women take protest to Transcorp power station Elo Ogwara WARRI

usiness activities at the Transcorp Power Station, Ughelli, came to a standstill yesterday as women numbering over 2,000 from Ekrerhavwe and Ekakpamre communities both of Ughelli North council areas of Delta State protested the lack of power supply in their communities.

Auchi poly graduate needs N10m for kidney transplant

The protesting women who danced and chanted war songs, bore placards with several inscriptions reading: “Mrs Funke Osibodu, we must not do the Christmas in darkness”, “Tunde Olakpenun, give us our light” and “Host communities need constant light,” amongst others. National Mirror learnt that the women, amongst whom were octogenarians, started gathering at the station as early

as 5am, making it impossible for workers to go in and out of the facility. The women led by Mrs. Kokor Kikiri and Mrs. Dorcas Akinone of Ekrerhavwe and Ekakpamre communities, stated that their president generals had been compromised by the company. They noted that prior to the acquisition of the company by Transcorp, the communities had been receiving free power

supply as a result of an agreement with government and the communities. “Now, they are saying we should pay for electricity despite the fact that we did not sell our land to them, thereby reneging on their agreement with the host communities,” the women said. At about 8 O’clock, the women took the agitation further on to the East-West Road. Commanding Officer of 222

Battalion, Agbarha-Otor, Lt. Col. Mathew Oyekola, could not do much to dissuade them, as they barricaded one side of the road with bonfire and other objects, forcing vehicular activities on one lane. The management of the company could not be reached as at the time of filing this report, but a source within disclosed that the company was on top of the situation.

ed-ridden Yusuf Ahmed, a graduate of the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi in Edo, on Monday, called for financial assistance from governments, organisations and well-meaning Nigerians to enable him to undergo kidney transplant. Ahmed, who hails from Iyakpi, South-Ibie in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo, said the money would help him to defray the cost of kidney transplant in India. He told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday that he was currently undergoing a weekly diagnosis at a cost of N120, 000. He hoped that the financial intervention would be timely to avert fatal consequences. ``I have been suffering from kidney failure. ``I want governments at all levels, well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organisations to please help me financially to enable me travel to India to carry out this kidney transplant, ’’ he said. NAN reports that Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) had on November 11 carried its first successful kidney transplantation. The doctors have called on Nigerians to avail themselves of the opportunity of treating their kidney diseases in LASUTH to reduce cost. Hospital sources said a number of kidney transplantation had been lined up against January 2016.

L-R: Rivers State APC chairman, Davies Ibiamu; State APC gubernatorial candidate in the April 11 election, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, and his running mate, Asita O Asita, during his arrival from Abuja after the Appeal Court Judgement, on Friday.

Ayade promises Obong of Calabar befitting palace Richard Ndoma CALABAR

he Governor of Cross River State, Prof. Ben Ayade, has promised to build a modern and befitting palace for the Efik monarch, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu (V), the Obong of Calabar. The governor stated that his administration would not only erect a palace for the Efik king, but, would equip it to befit the status of the monarch. Ayade made the promise

at the weekend while delivering a speech at the “Otomo Obong” a yearly ceremony organised by the Efik Kingdom to honour their king. He said that what the Efik people used to call palace of the Obong was not befitting the status of the monarch. The governor stated that even though he was not an Efik he had enjoyed very good times and tremendous things throughout the times he lived with the Efik people. He added that the Efik were very nice people who were in

the habit of welcoming every stranger that chose to come and live in their land irrespective of sex, age, tribe or religion. The governor asked the Efik monarch to adopt him as his son. “I want the Obong to adopt me as his son,” Ayade said. The governor promised to revisit the issue of Bakassi Peninsular which was ceded to the Republic of Cameroon leaving the former Nigerian residents of the Bakassi to wallow in abject poverty.

He said that his mind bled each time he saw a great number of former people of Bakassi leaving as internally displace persons in their own father land. “As we match towards 2016,the Obong of Calabar shall match to Abuja to table the issue of Bakassi before those who are vested with the power of policy decisions, we shall fight within the ambit of the law to ensure that the people of Bakassi return back to their ancestral land,” Ayade promised.

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Alumni canvasses fund for CRUTECH Richard Ndoma CALABAR

he national president of Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) alumni association, Eyam Abeng, is soliciting a forty per cent contribution of legislators` constituency allowances to encourage research development in the school. Eyam who now works with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said that if legislators representing the state in both the national and state House of Assemblies decided to sacrifice 40% of their constituency allowance for use by the school authority to boost research development part of the institution`s financial crunch problem would have

been solved. Eyam made the suggestion in a telephone interview a week after the alumni association inaugurated its new exco to pilot affairs for the alumni in the next two years. He said that a time had come when all sons and daughters of Cross River origin should stop folding their hands and see CRUTECH suffer. He stressed that something had to be done to protect their alma mater from suffering in its academic standards. The alumni president maintained that given the series of problems that their alma mater had undergone with the immediate past administration of the Imoke`s regime whereby salaries were owed workers for months, including that of (lec-

turers) the institution`s branch of ASUU over certain allowances. He said that it had become obvious that government alone could not do everything for the development of the school. He added that a time had come where all hands had to be on deck to ensure that the standard of the school had to be raised at all cost to make CRUTECH continue to rank among the best universities of technologies in the world. According to him, CRUTECH was the only school of technology that had in the past made Cross River State proud. “Why should we allow it to fall?” he asked. The alumni boss thanked the federal government for giving assistance to the school through

its TET FUND, adding that more was still needed to be done to raise the institution to a world class standard. He urged the state government to include the alumni in the convocation seat of Governing Council of the institution for better contribution for growth and positive development. The CRUTECH alumni president appealed to governor Ben Ayade`s administration to believe in the vision of the institution and its products by contributing meaningfully to the actualisation of the rapid infranstructural development ongoing in the institution. He urged the institution alumnus to join hands in the exco`s quest to reposition the school. Earlier In his post inaugural

speech ,the national president stated that one of the policy thrust of the present executive of the association was to embark on design and development of viable website for CRUTECH Alumni to connect the world for detailed monitoring and tracking of the alumni`s giant stride. He said that other areas of interest would be in the integration of the alumni with various tiers of government in Nigeria, encourage students on programme exchange with foreign universities and build cyber cafes with 30 computers in each of the four campuses of Calabar, Obubra,Ogoja and Okuku.

Akwa Ibom assembly elects new Speaker

People being attended to by NACA officials, during the NACA/SURE-P free medical outreach programme in Gokana Local Government of Rivers State, yesterday.

raders in Port Harcourt have urged the Rivers State government to install fire-fighting equipment in markets to forestall fire outbreaks during the yuletide. A survey by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in major markets in the city on Monday showed that the traders were mostly concerned about the possible outbreak of fire. Some markets in the city have a history of being engulfed by fire during the yuletide. Some of the traders told NAN that they had lost goods worth millions of naira in the past following fires that razed the markets. Mr. Samuel Ebere of the Ru-

Yuletide: Traders call on Rivers govt to install fire equipment in markets muwoji Market said that the intervention of the state government during the season would be good for the traders. ``We have had very ugly experiences during some Christmas holidays in the past; we will appreciate any efforts to tackle any eventual fire outbreak. ``We have also had situations where people who had already closed for the year and travelled home were called to be informed that they lost all the goods in their shops,’’ Ebere said. Another trader, Mrs. Grace

Eme, who deals on fabrics, said that it was improper to leave some major markets without good fire fighting facilities. ``Many traders have collapsed and died due to fire incidents; it is not a thing someone will want to experience, that is the reason we are making this call. ``All our hopes are packed inside our shops, the goods you see in the shops are our hopes, so the government should help us to prepare for any eventuality,’’ she said. On his part, Mr. Michael

Okon, a security man at the Nkpolu-Oroworukwo market urged the traders to be safety conscious. ``My advice to the traders is to obey safety rules, they should not leave candle lights on; they should turn off electric sockets and appliances and avoid storing petrol in their shops. ``The truth is that any small spark of flame that finds an inflammable material around it can lead to a terrible inferno, all of us in this market must know this,’’ he said.

he Akwa Ibom House of Assembly on Monday elected Mr. Onofiok Luke as its new Speaker. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Luke, who represents Nsit Ubium constituency emerged as Speaker following the nullification of the election of the former Speaker, Aniekan Uko. The Appeal Court Tribunal sitting in Abuja had last week nullified the election of the former Speaker. Luke was nominated by Nse Essien, member representing Onna and seconded by Mark Esset, member representing Nsit Atai. The Clerk of the House, Mrs Mandu Umoren, administered the oath of office on the new Speaker. In his acceptance speech, Luke promised to work with the executive to bring development to the state and ensure that the dividends of democracy reached the grassroots. The new Speaker said he would operate an open door policy and continue from where the former Speaker stopped as the House.

Onofiok

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Views

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

African and narratives on liberty BOBSON GBINIJE

he liberty and consummate rights of men are exponentially elucidated in the American Declaration of Independence that “we hold these truths to be self evident; that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness” . Despotism has continued to spread its tyrannosaurus tentacles in the 21st century because of the deliberate misapplication of the nuts and bolts of democracy; cowardice of the electorate; edacious amendment of the constitution to suit the despots’ gluttonous quest for power; manipulation of the so-called educated, religious institutions, tribal pettifoggers, dunderheaded noodles, and traditional rulers, among others. The skullduggery manipulation of democratic institutions like the police, judiciary, legislature, electoral dodies etc, by the powers-that-be, has led to the prevalence of Machiavellian travesty masquerading as democracy in Africa and nay in our world. If not so, the prolific and fertile growth in the past and present African despots like Idi Amin Dada, Sanni Abacha, Jean Bokassa, Hastings Kamuzu Banda, Gnassingbe Eyadama, Yoweri Musevini, Ngueso, Hosni Mubarak etc, wouldn’t have been a reality in Africa. The pulchritudinous streak of our

democratic rights, liberty and freedom will continue to be a notional brummagem and splendiferous histrionics unless we stand up for our democratic rights and liberties in Africa. In his historic speech delivered in 1790, the Irish orator, lawyer and politician, John Philpot Curran, titled ‘The Protection of our Rights’ said: “The condition upon which God hath given liberty to men is eternal vigilance, which condition if he breaks, servitude is at once the consequence of his crime and the punishment of his guilt”. This is buttressed by the statesman Benjamin Franklin in his ‘Historical Review of Pennsylvania’ that “They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety”. We have little or no ‘democracy building and concretization institutions’ in place in Africa. The democracy watchmen and their watchtowers are just not there. Some members of labour unions, the press, telectorate etc, are suffering from Laodicean lethargy to know the need for patriotic commitment to the tenets of democracy. The very few Africans, who put and lost their lives and suffered martyrdom from their fight for the entrenchment of freedom and liberty, have been consigned to the oubliette of history. The likes of Gani Fawehemi, Fela Anikulakpo, Steve Biko, Herbert Macaulay, Isaac Adaka Boro, Aminu Kano, Victor Atiri, and Raymond Pemu and others too numerous to mention have been forgotten by the march of autocracy. Hence, the patriot Lydia Maria in an ‘Ap-

THE TOGA OF

COWARDICE AND LILYLIVERED CONSCIENCE MORTGAGING PROCLIVITIES MUST BE DISCARDED FROM OUR POLITICAL LEBENSRAUM peal on Behalf of that class of Americans called Africans’ said” “They (slaves) have stabbed themselves for freedom-jumped into the waves for freedom – fought like very tigers for freedom! But they have been hung and burned and shot and their tyrants have been their historians”. That is what Africans are suffering till today. What a shame! If not, why were our legal institutions in Delta State, and nay Nigeria, unable to call former Governor James Onanefe Ibori to order? Why are we still quiet about the gross malfeasance of past Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan for plunging Delta State into debts totalling about N636 billion? Why are most indicted governors, legislators, commissioners and ministers in Nigeria and most African countries gone scot free? We are the greatest predators and worst enemies of our democracy, rights, freedom and liberty. We need to consolidate the foundational equipoise of our democracy in Africa by building democratic institutions, not persons or individuals. We most re-acculturate

and re-orientate our minds and psyche through grassroots education and practice of democracy. It must be inculcated from play group, kindergarten, primary, secondary schools through tertiary institutions. The churches, mosques, family units must be involved to ensure the entrenchment of democracy, not only at grass root level but from root hair base to tree top heights. Our emphasis should be on knowledge of our rights, liberty and freedoms, and we must develop the courage to rise up for our rights and liberties. We must be prepared to make sacrifices for the preservation of Democracy, liberty and our rights. Hence, the essayist Thomas Paine observed in his book ‘First Principles of Government’ that “He that would make his own liberty secure must guard even his enemy from destruction”. Finally, despots all over Africa, and nay in our world, will continue to take the democratic rights and liberties of the electorate and the citizenry for granted unless we are Jeffersonian, Lincolnian and Mandelian in our propensities to assert and claim our rights. The toga of cowardice and lilylivered conscience mortgaging proclivities must be discarded from our political lebensraum, and we must put on the audacious streak of martyrdom and the fearlessness of patriotic sacrifices for our democratic rights, freedom and liberties. It is only then that we can rid Africa, and nay our world of Neanderthal despots and tyrannosaurus monsters. God bless democracy, freedom and liberty in Africa.

Anambra central and Umeh’s court victory MICHAEL JEGEDE

he Enugu Court of Appeal penultimate Monday nullified the election of Senator Uche Ekwunife, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, consequent upon an appeal filed by Chief Victor Umeh of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA. Umeh, APGA’s candidate for Anambra Central in the 2015 general elections, had earlier lost to Ekwunife of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the lower tribunal. However, in its verdict, the Appeal Court, describing the tribunal’s ruling as a perverse judgement, ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a fresh election within 90 days. At the end of the National Assembly election held last March 28, INEC’s Returning Officer, Dr. Pius Okoye, had declared Ekwunife winner of the poll. According to Okoye, Ekwunife polled 101,548 votes to defeat 14 other candidates, including Umeh, who was said to have polled 77,129 votes to come a second, while Chris Ngige of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the then incumbent Senator, garnered 20,850 votes to place third. In his characteristic manner, Umeh, a respected politician, who has proved to be an irrepressible and dogged fighter, winning several political and legal battles to remain relevant in the game of politics, saw the tribunal as his next option. Unfortunately, rather than getting reprieve from the tribunal, Umeh lost at the tribunal which affirmed Ekwunife’s victory.

Convinced that the evidence he produced at the tribunal was enough to prove his case beyond reasonable doubt, Umeh proceeded to the appellate court, where he believed he would get justice. And justice, indeed, came his way! In his reaction to the ruling of the Court of Appeal, Umeh described it as clearly an act of God, noting that “PDP died the day Jonathan lost election; they should cover themselves with blanket of shame. At the tribunal, they were laughing at us, but today they are covered with shame. We would have won the first election, but they introduced impunity and recklessness; they used the police, the army to rig the election.” The APGA chieftain expressed optimism that he would emerge triumphant in the rerun declared by the Appeal Court, saying: “I will write INEC before this election and I’m optimistic that those who were involved in the former election will not be involved in conducting this new exercise.” Umeh praised the Appeal Court judges for “standing strongly on the path of truth despite every pressure. This Appeal Court has always been where I get justice, because this is where you find men of integrity.” Prior to the Anambra Central senatorial election, Umeh was seen to have pulled weight more than any other contestant. Having succumbed to the pressure from his people to contest in the senatorial race, he put up a very robust campaign that showed he was a serious contender for the exalted political seat. Various groups within and outside Anambra State adopted him as the best man for the job, believ-

PRIOR TO THE ANAMBRA CENTRAL

SENATORIAL ELECTION,

UMEH WAS SEEN TO

HAVE PULLED WEIGHT MORE THAN ANY OTHER CONTESTANT ing he would not only represent Anambra Central in the hallowed chamber of the Senate, but also serve as a potent voice for the Ndigbo. Some of the many groups that endorsed his candidature before the poll included the Anambra Central Political Forum; Youths for Greater Anambra Stat; the youth wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo; APGA Women for Good Governance, and APGA Solidarity Movement. They all believe that in Umeh, they have “a fighter and a warrior”. The United Igbo People’s Congress (UIPC) had said that he was the person positioned to fight the cause of Ndigbo by the late Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu. According to UIPC, “Chief Umeh’s eloquent opposition against the enemies of Ndigbo prides him as the most outstanding Igbo political leader”. In a piece titled “Victor Umeh: A Senator Ndigbo Must Have”, Dr. Elo Afoka, Special Adviser to Anambra State Deputy Governor on Political Affairs, wrote: “Indeed, Umeh represents the face of the new Igbo political struggle. His victory is

a victory for all APGA and Ndigbo. His Senate bid, from his antecedents, is not just Anambra Central senatorial thing. Rather, it’s Igbo’s Senate quest because Umeh, from his antecedent, shall give leadership to all Igbo Senators, and others. Indeed, Umeh’s Senate bid is for Ndigbo. We must rally round to secure it.” Making reference to the wonderful contributions of Umeh to debate on issues at the 2014 national conference, Afoka added: “Among the candidates in Anambra Central Senatorial zone, Umeh has exuded more energy, boldness, courage, and consistency as regards Igbo struggle”. Another writer, Onyedika Okonkwo, from Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, in an article just before the election titled “For Victor Umeh, Victory Beckons with Open Arms”, he noted that “Umeh’s life has revolved around things that affect Ndigbo and he has never shown any hesitation or lack of guts to give voice to the issues that dominate the day...Truth is, Umeh is a light years ahead of his two challengers (Ekwunife and Ngige) in his campaign efforts...” Jegede wrote from Abuja and can be reached through 07065574368 Send your views by mail or sms to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mail@ nationalmirroronline.net mirrorlagos@ yahoo.com or 08164966858 (SMS only). The Editor reserves the right to edit and reject views or photographs. Pseudonyms may be used but must be clearly marked as such.

Editorial

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

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All the Facts, All the Sides A PUBLICATION OF GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LTD BARRISTER JIMOH IBRAHIM, CFR PUBLISHER

SUNDAY OLAJIDE MANAGING DIRECTOR/CEO BEN MEMULETIWON ACTING DAILY EDITOR GBEMI OLUJOBI SATURDAY EDITOR AYO OLESIN SUNDAY EDITOR DOZIE OKEBALAMA COORDINATOR, EDITORIAL BOARD CALLISTUS OKE EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR OBIORA IFOH ACTING ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF AUGUSTUS IMEKAN ACTING HEAD, GRAPHICS

Oil spill: Justice for Nigerians in Dutch court Resilience, perseverance and determination to hang on against all odds paid off last Friday for four Nigerian farmers that dragged Royal Dutch Shell multinational oil giant to the Dutch judiciary some years ago in search of redress for oil spill that ruined their means of livelihood. With the assistance of the Dutch unit of environmental activist group, ‘Friends of the Earth’, the farmers, in October 2012, had taken their case to the Dutch court. Many predicted, too, that the outcome of the case could set a precedent for global environmental responsibility. The civil suit said the oil spills which dated back to 2005 made fishing and farming in the affected Niger Delta communities impossible. Reports said the case, which was initially filed in 2008, demanded that Shell should clean up the mess, repair and maintain defective pipelines to prevent further damage, as well as pay compensation to the plaintiffs. The foundation of Friday’s landmark ruling was laid by the Dutch judiciary in 2009, when it declared its competence to try the case in spite of protests by Shell that its Nigerian subsidiary - Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) was solely legally responsible for any damage. The head of Oruma village, Chief Fidelis Oguru, one of the plaintiffs, had stated at

the time: “I inherited fishponds from my late father. I lost my income due to the oil spill. Now we are struggling to make ends meet”. Friends of the Earth, Netherlands’ spokesman, Geert Ritsema, also said the scale of the pollution was outrageous but was never cleaned up. In the latest ruling, however, The Hague Appeal Court said: “It cannot be established in advance that the parent company is not liable for possible negligence of the Nigerian operating company”. Not surprisingly, the judgement tickled activists, who said the ruling had set the stage for a landmark legal precedent that cleared the coast for Netherlandsbased companies to be sued for alleged negligence of their subsidiaries elsewhere in the world. “There is now jurisprudence that means victims of human rights’ violations or pollution can sue Dutch multinationals in the Netherlands”, Ritsema said after last Friday’s court victory of the Nigerian farmers. The judgement has vindicated Nigerian critics that have consistently resented the kid gloves’ treatment the Nigerian government has been giving oil multinationals in the country, despite the levels of oil spillage or gas flaring traceable to their operations. Reports attest to the fact that none of the oil companies can contemplate, let alone perpetrate

December 22, 1989 Communist President of Romania, Nicolae Ceausescu, was overthrown by Ion Iliescu after days of bloody confrontations. The deposed dictator and his wife fled Bucharest with a helicopter as protesters erupted in cheers. Ceauescu (January 26, 1918 – December 25, 1989) was a Romanian Communist politician. He was General Secretary of the Romanian Communist Party from 1965 to 1989, and the country’s second and last Communist leader.

IT IS INSTRUCTIVE THAT JUSTICE FOR THE FOUR AGGRIEVED

NIGER DELTA FARMERS IS EMANATING FROM

NETHERLANDS, SHELL’S HOME COUNTRY

the kind of reckless oil spills they inflict on Nigeria in their home countries and go scot free. President Barak Obama of the United States, for instance, aligned with American people when, in 2010, he spearheaded a campaign to extract compensation from Shell for the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. In China, the government in 2011 suspended the operations of ConocoPhillips, a US’ oil major, over oil spill of a lesser magnitude when compared with the killer spills in Nigeria. ConocoPhillips was suspended from operating its Bohai Bay concessions in the aftermath of two oil spills at its offshore platforms in the Penglai oilfield in Bohai Bay because of Chinese authorities’ concern about the possibility of additional leaks. But in Nigeria, especially during the military era, the Federal Government deployed soldiers to forcibly quell agitations for compensation for damages occasioned by reckless oil spillage.

ON THIS DAY December 22, 2001 Richard Reid attempted to destroy a passenger airliner by igniting explosives hidden in his shoes aboard American Airlines Flight 63. Richard Colvin Reid (born August 12, 1973), also known as the Shoe Bomber, is an Englishman who attempted to detonate explosives packed into the shoes he was wearing, while on American Airlines Flight 63 from Paris to Miami. He was born to a father who was a career criminal.

Attempts by communities in Ogoniland devastated by oil spills to halt the culture of impunity during late General Sani Abacha’s iron fist rule culminated in the execution by hanging of the late Playwright and environmental activist, Ken Saro-Wiwa, who led protests to stop Shell from further despoliation of Ogoniland, alongside eight other kinsmen of his, on November 10, 1995. Lately (2012), former President Goodluck Jonathan’s government imposed a fine of $5 billion on Shell for the December 20, 2011 spillage of 40,000 barrels of crude that occurred at Shell’s deepwater facility in Bonga, Rivers State. But SNEPCo’s Managing Director, Mr. Chike Onyejekwe, vowed to resist paying the fine, which he described as illegal and baseless. It is not to public knowledge, till date, whether or not SNEPCo paid the fine. Nigerians deserve protection from the inhuman predilections of multinational oil giants. Therefore, the FG should muster the political will needed to stop multinational oil firms from degrading the nation’s environment as is the case in other lands. It is instructive that justice for the four aggrieved Niger Delta farmers is emanating from Netherlands, Shell’s home country; and not from Nigeria, their own homeland.

December 22, 2010 The repeal of the ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell policy’, the 17-year-old policy aimed at homosexuals serving openly in the United States military, was signed to law by President Barack Obama. ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ (DADT) was the official US policy on service by gays and lesbians in the military instituted by the ex-Bill Clinton administration on February 28, 1994. It took effect on December 21, 1993 following a Department of Defense Directive.

Business

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Charting roadmap to implementation of FG’s roads, housing projects

Smuggling, poor monitoring worsen fuel scarcity nationwide

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Real Estate Finance Culture War 2 26 AIRLINES’ FLIGHT SCHEDULES Med-View Airline

Evaluating foreign agro investment inflows’ impact on Nigeria’s economy The fundamental roles agricultural sector is expected to play in the nation’s national development have continued to be undermined by sundry challenges, thereby causing serious distortions in the economy.. As the new drive towards diversification of the economy gathers greater momentum, experts believe that if the current interest of foreign investors in the sector is properly harnessed through appropriate policy measures, the road to Nigeria’s sustained and balanced socio-economic development may have been charted. ABOLAJI ADEBAYO reports.

or each country, there is at least a sector of the economy of which it has comparative advantage over others. And this economic asset, if efficiently utilized, could be a key resource required by a country for national development and global market competitiveness and macro economic stability. Prior to the discovery of crude oil in Nigeria, agriculture was the mainstay of the nation’s economy until the individual and the government’s

attention was shifted from the sector to the crude oil, which has since assumed the sole economic commodity of the whole country. The neglect of the agricultural sector has made it unattractive to both local and foreign investors. Although farming is still practised in Nigeria but this is not really for the purpose of enhancing its contributions to the Gross Domestic Product, GDP. Rather, it was left in the hands of the peasant farmers without adequate supports

The neglect of the agricultural sector has made it unattractive to both local and foreign investors. Although farming is still practised in Nigeria but this is not really for the purpose of enhancing its contributions to the Gross Domestic Product, GDP. Rather, it was left in the hands of the peasant farmers without adequate supports from the government in terms of finance, equipment, inputs and the like with the attendant

negative implications for robust or balanced national value addition

from the government in terms of finance, equipment, inputs and the like with the attendant negative implications for robust or balanced national value addition. This did not only lead to the underdevelopment of the sector but made even food security a major challenge in the country as post-harvest saving facilities were lacking and farmers became poorer as the years roll by. The farmers’ losses took the form of low access to modern inputs, reduced outputs, low income, and high incidence of poverty. Consumers also had to bear high cost of food and other processed products. The effects of the identified constraint on commercialisation and investment in Nigerian agriculture were low output/ productivity, high cost of production, low returns to investment, low level of investment,

high price of agricultural products, collapse of businesses, insufficient working capital, low capacity utilization, poor investment climate, loss and or poor quality of products, poor economic growth, loss of invested fund, loss of confidence in the economy, excessive importation/dumping of fake and substandard products, uncompetitiveness of Nigerian products in the world market, drudgery of farming, insecurity/violent, capital flight, destruction of natural production resources, and loss of biodiversity. As a result of above effects, the private sector and the foreign investors were not encouraged to make substantial and sustainable investments in the Nigerian agricultural sector. The fall in the prices of oil and the need for diversifying the nation’s economy from a mono-based economy of oil and CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Lagos- Abuja (Mon-Fri): 07.00, 08.50, 12.00, 16.30. Abuja- Lagos (Mon-Fri): 09.00, 14.00, 15.00, 18.30. Lagos-Yola (Mon-Fri): 8.50am. Yola-Lagos (Mon-Fri): 13.00. Lagos- PHC (Mon-Fri): 17.00. PHC-Lagos: 19.00. Abuja-Yola: 11.00. Yola-Abuja: 13.00. Lagos-Abuja (Sat): 08.00, 08.50. Abuja-Lagos (Sat): 10.00, 15.00. Lagos-PHC (Sat): 17.00. PHC-Lagos (Sat): 19.00. Lagos-Yola (Sat): 08.50. Yola-Lagos (Sat): 13.00

Dana Air Abuja-Lagos 9am, 1pm, 5.28pm daily Lagos-Abuja 7am, 11am, 1.23pm,3.30pm daily Lagos-PH: 7.20AM, Ph-Abuja9.54am, Abuja-ph: 3.30pm and Ph-Lagos: 5.28pm daily Lagos-Uyo: 9.20am, Uyo-Abuja: 11.07am, Abuja-Uyo 1.05pm, Uyo-Lagos: 3pm daily Weekends Lagos-Abuja: 7.02am, 9am, 3.30pm Abuja-Lagos: 9am, 2.20pm and 5.28pm Lagos -Phc: 11.07am Phc-Lagos: 1.05pm Phc-Abuja: 12.51pm Abuja-Phc: 10.50am Lagos-Uyo: 9.18am Uyo-LOS -3.03pm Uyo-Abuja: 11.07am Abuja-Uyo: 1.05pm

Aero Contractors Lag-Abj: 06.50, 13.30, 16.30, 19.45 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun), 12.30 (Sun) 16.45 (Sat) Abj-Los: 07.30, 13.00, 19.00 (Mon-Fri/Sat, 10.30, 14.30, 19.30 (Sun, 18.30 Sat) Lag-Benin: 07.45, 11.00, 15.30 (Mon-Fri/Sat/ Sun) 12.30 (Sun 15.30 (Sat) Ben-Lag: 09.15, 12.30, 17.00 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun) 17.00 (Sat) 14.00 (Sun)Lag-Owe: 7.45am, 2pm daily

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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

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Evaluating foreign agro investment inflows’ impact on Nigeria’s economy CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 petroleum products seemed to have diverted the attention of both the government and individual investors to the economic advantage of the once neglected sector, hence, a persistent campaign for the reformation of the agricultural sector. The reformation, which has given the sector a new economic look, making agriculture to be more of business than development instrument has continued attracting interests of more investors from both local and foreign countries. Recently, the interests of the foreign entities to participate in the Nigerian agricultural sector through investment in various aspects of the sector, especially in processing plant and manufacturing, have been on a surging trend. Agribusiness experts noted that this remarkable turnaround in the Nigerian agricultural sector poses a great advantage as it stands to create multiplier effects in terms of job creation, food security and improved foreign exchange earnings for the country. Before the reformation, it was observed that agricultural enterprises in Nigeria were fairly attractive to domestic investors while they were less attractive to foreign investors. An agricultural analyst, Taophic Mustapha, an agric engineer from University of Ibadan, identified 13 types of enterprises or economic activities worthy of investment in Nigerian agriculture. These include input production, and supply, staple food crops, industrial crops, livestock, fishery, forestry, commodity processing, storage, agricultural commodity marketing, agroindustry/manufacturing, agricultural commodity export, and agricultural support services. According to Mustapha, nine out of the thirteen enterprises were hardly attractive to foreign investors. He said that foreign investors were much more interested in in input production/supply of inputs, processing of commodities, and agroindustrial or manufacturing enterprises, all of which are downstream activities and highly capital intensive. He further noted that domestic investors were willing to invest in input production and supply, commodity processing, commodity marketing and agroindustrial/manufacturing. He observed that the primary of upstream production activities seemed not to attract much investment interest from either foreign or domestic private sectors, saying therefore that the small-scale farmers would remain the main investors in the primary production subsector. He also observed that the areas of investment interest were based on regional differences across the country. He said for instance, in the North-central domain, the economic enterprises of strong attraction are industrial crops, forestry, and agroindustrial/manufacturing enterprises, staple crop production is not at all attractive for foreign investment while livestock production and agricultural transport service are only weakly attracted. In the Northeast, Mustapha noted that several agricultural enterprises have the potential to attract investment from foreign investors, which include agricultural input product/supply, livestock production, ag-

Onyeama

Ogbeh ricultural commodity processing, agricultural storage, agroindustry/manufacture, agricultural commodity export, and agricultural support services. According to him, the three areas fairly attractive to foreign investors in the Northwest domain, are input production/supply, commodity processing, and agroprocessing/manufacturing. In the Southeast domain, he said, four fairly attractive enterprises for foreign investment are input production/supply, industrial crop production (in particular oil palm and rubber), commodity processing, and agroindustry/manufacture. He further said that industrial crop production, forestry, commodity processing, and commodity export always caught foreign investors’ attention in the Southwest, while local investors would be fairly attracted to invest in staple food crop production, industrial crop production, fisheries, forestry, and commodity processing enterprises. “Across the country and enterprises, three main reasons stand out as accounting for the attractiveness of enterprises to foreign investors. These are a high level of demand for both primary and processed products, the availability of raw materials/ inputs, and a high rate of returns. However, the huge capital requirement to begin a new business or run an old one is disincentive for domestic investors’ involvement in input production/supply enterprises and agricultural commodity processing. Similarly, land fragmentation is a major disincentive for domestic investors’ participation in forestry enterprises in both the Southeast and Southsouth zones.” he declared. Meanwhile, the Chairman of all Farmers

Association on Nigerian, Lagos State Chapter, Otunba Femi Oke, said the major factors setting Nigerian agriculture sector behind included lack of finance and infrastructure. He informed that many foreign entities are now interested in those areas to make their participation in the sector worthwhile while also creating conducive environment for all farmers including the local ones to explore the sector to the nation’s advantage. According to Oke, some foreign investors just came to Nigeria last week to partner with the local stakeholders to render supports to the local farmers. Those companies, which were supported by the United State Department Agriculture, USDA, included Kiwi International from Atlanta. Oke, who was appointed as the coordinator in Nigeria, said the firm would be supporting the farmers in the area of capacity building as it has budgeted huge amount of dollars to that effect. Fagrib is another company from Washington, according to Oke, which would take up the financial aspect of the sector by giving loans to farmers, while also embarking on capacity building for the farmers in Nigeria. Oke further informed that another foreign company, Grain Handler, has set to provide various farming machines to make the faring activities easier. He said those machines include machines that can dry maize as well as sieve maize. All these companies came to Nigeria last week to formalize their involvement in the Nigerian agricultural sector with the government. In a similar development, a Chinese com-

Fagrib is another company from Washington, according to Oke, which would take up the financial aspect of the sector by giving loans to farmers, while also embarking on capacity building for the farmers in

Nigeria

pany, HellogJiang Pingyuan Rice Group, has unveiled plans to invest $300 million in rice project in Nigeria. The Chief Executive Officer of the Group, Mr. Wang Jing Xin, disclosed this on Tuesday last week, when he led a delegation of the company to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Abuja. According to Wang, the company would start with 500 hectares of land and later invest 300 million dollars into agriculture in Nigeria. The facilitator of the meeting, the ConsulGeneral of Nigeria in China, Ambassador Ali Ocheni, said some states including Imo, Cross River and Akwa Ibom had shown interest in the proposal, which covers training of local farmers and transfer of technology, apart from making profits. He urged the ministry to encourage other states to partake in the project to help Nigeria become self –sufficient in rice. Ocheni also disclosed the company’s intention to collaborate with the ministry in building a research institute, helping local farmers to improve themselves and equally providing job opportunities for Nigerians. In his response, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, spoke on the need to take every step to ensure that other states in the country partner with the company on the proposed rice project, adding that an expanse of land earlier mapped out for rice production in Bayelsa State would be considered for the project. The Minister, who said Kebbi, Zamfara and Ogun states respectively could be encouraged to collaborate with the company, requested the company to consider the production of vegetables. He also tasked the International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, to devise a new strategy to accommodate the new programmes of the ministry. The Minister listed the need to minimize the conflicts between herdsmen and farmers, expansion of the value chains, rural sustenance, conversion of cassava leaves into animal feeds, industrial starch production and production of small harvesting machineries in cluster communities, among the requests of the ministry. He assured IFAD of the strong commitment of the ministry.

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Business News

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Smuggling, poor monitoring worsen fuel scarcity nationwide UDEME AKPAN

espite the promises by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, to ensure end to fuel scarcity within weeks, the fuel situation has worsened in all parts of the country mainly because of smuggling, diversion and inadequate monitoring in the downstream sector. Investigations showed that some greedy traders have cashed in on the scarcity to smuggle commercial quantities of the product across the border communities in order to make brisk businesses. For instance, an Idi Irokobased source who confirmed the development indicated that there were also others who discharge it to their storage facilities in the town before retailing the product at higher prices to consumers that come to buy it from Benin Republic and other West African nations. He explained: “It cost about N800 to buy four litres of petrol here. It is much higher than that across the borders” Consequently, some marketers did not have the product to sell to their consumers in Lagos and its environs because of diversion and other reasons when National Mirror visited the sta-

tions yesterday. A market survey by National Mirror showed that many marketers who have commercial stocks of fuel still used only few pumps to dispense to motorists and other users, thus leading to emergence of long queues. It was observed that the marketing companies have also stopped selling the product to users who need to buy in jerry cans for their generators, thus worsening the plights of consumers. Many consumers were seen taking fuel tanks of their generators to various in order to get the product which demand has also risen because of epileptic power supply in the nation. Other sources indicated that the nation’s fuel scarcity would likely continue till next year except the Federal Government fulfill its promise to pay the marketers their outstanding debts. The Managing Director of one marketing companies, who preferred not to be identified in print, maintained that it would be difficult to get the cooperation of oil marketing companies because the companies were highly indebted to various banks that funded their operations in the past. He said that as a result of

Fidelity Bank renovates Ibafon school

idelity Bank Plc last weekend handed over a renovated, fully equipped block of classrooms to Ibafon Primary School, Ibafon, Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government Area (LGA), Apapa. Lagos State. According to the bank, the decision to embark on the project is borne out of the realization that the education sector remains critical to driving socio-economic development. The school project was initiated and implemented by the staff of Apapa Region of Fidelity Bank Plc., under the auspices of the Fidelity Helping Hands Program (FHHP). Speaking at the occasion, the bank’s Managing Director, Nnamdi Okonkwo said that the project was part of the parts efforts aimed at improving the education sector in the country. Okonkwo said that Nigeria’s quest to be among the leading global economies will be a mirage without a formidable workforce, a spin -off of a sound education sector . He explained that the FHHP is the Bank’s approach to giving back to the society. Represented by Obaro Odeghe, Head, Apapa Regional Bank, the Managing Director enjoined other private organisations to partner

with the government in its efforts to revive Nigeria’s ailing educational system and bring back its lost glory. Odeghe promised that the Bank will return next year to renovate the other blocks of classrooms and equip them with stateof-the-art furniture and equipment. In his remarks, the Local Government Education Secretary, Solomon Aboluwodi, commended the bank for undertaking such a monumental project in the local government,. He noted that the financial institution is already trailing the blaze in the CSR space and called on other corporate bodies to emulate the bank. According to him, “if we have up to five organisations like Fidelity Bank in our different communities, the society will be a better place”. To this end, he emphasised that everyone has a role to play in developing the society and no one should neglect his part. Some of the projects Fidelity Bank has executed through the FHHP include, the renovation of facilities and provision of classrooms and hostel furniture at Zainab Dakingari Orphanage Home/School in Birnin Kebbi; construction of the Registry Block

& Clinic Park Landscape in BSU, Markudi.

delay in the subsidy payment, the relationships between the companies and financial institutions had worsened in the past few years. The managing director said the eventual settlement of the debts

would enable them to re-pay loans as well as embark on new importation of fuel. According to him, “The Federal Government should not only talk about this payment. It

should do it without delay so that the situation would not go from bad to worst during the Christmas and New Year when many people are expected to move from one part of the nation to another.”

L-R: President of Igbobi College Old Boys’ Association (ICOBA), Mr. Foluso Phillips; founder of FCMB Group and recipient of ICOBA Lifetime Achievement Award, Otunba Olasubomi Balogun and Vice President, Yemi Osibajo, during the Association’s Annual Christmas Dinner held last Friday in Lagos.

Firm rewards customers, staff at mega promo Regina Otokpa

s the year gradually inches to an end, the management of Abeysteph Global link Printing Press has rewarded some customers and staff in the just concluded Abuja Mega Promo. The Managing Director, Mr. Abiodun Oyediran, noted that the exercise was aimed at appreciating customers for their contribution to the growth of the organisation in the year under review.

He further disclosed the organisation’s commitment towards addressing the incessant rate of unemployment in the coming year, by creating jobs for no fewer than 500 unemployed youths before the end of the first month. Oyediran said, “This is the third edition and a way of rewarding customers as well as staff of the organisation, which is gradually spreading like wild fire to different parts of the country. Plans are under way to increase the tempo by 2016. “The rate of unemployment in the country is high; with the ex-

pansion of Abeysteph, we are working towards being able to employ over 500 youths by the end of January 2016,” he added. Lamenting the effect of epileptic power supply in crippling the growth of business, the Managing Director urged the Federal Government to create an enabling environment for business to strive in the country. One of the beneficiaries, Monday Obaje, who won a brand new Toyota Corolla worth N4 million, said he was happy the organisation kept to their words.

estimate of 3.5 per cent. It projected: “Growth is expected to benefit from double-digit increases across several sectors. Industrial activity, for example, is expected to gain further momentum over the year, with the construction segment projected to post 30.6 per cent year-on-year (yo-y) growth, although the agricultural sector – a key export revenue earner – is poised to remain flat. “The revised figures are welcome news for West Africa’s second-largest economy, although they may also put increased pressure on inflation. “As activity has gathered pace, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) has sought to keep high inflation in check, raising its policy rate by 100 basis points (bps) to 26% in midNovember, the third such increase since the start of the year due to “imminent upside risks to the in-

flation outlook”, it added According to OBG’s economic analysts, as with many emerging markets, exogenous headwinds such as the strengthening US dollar, have impacted Ghana’s growth trajectory. They noted particularly that depreciation of the cedi which had lost 12.6 per cent of its value against the US dollar year-to-date as of end-November had driven up the price of imports and raised prices throughout the economy. In addition, the report indicated that the government had taken aggressive steps to mitigate price pressures over the past 12 months, albeit with mixed results, noting however that despite a combined 500-bps interest rate hike over the year, inflation has remained well above the central bank’s target band of 8 per cent plus or minus 2 per cent.

Ghana’s economic outlook bright, says OBG Tola Akinmutimi

he Oxford Business Group, a global economic intelligence reporting group, has projected bright economic outlook for Ghana, with the country’s Gross Domestic Product, GDP, growth gaining momentum as the year gradually inches to its end. According to the latest report by the group on the country, while weaker commodity prices and climbing inflation inhibited economic expansion for much of 2015, measures to stabilise prices and curb state spending appeared to be having a moderating effect on the macro economy. Citing the latest data from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), issued at the end of September, the OBG noted GDP growth was now projected to reach 4.1 per cent by the end of 2015, up from its July

Business News

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Dana Air boss decries naira exchange rate impact on airlines Olusegun Koiki

he continuous drop of naira as against major currencies in the world especially dollars is a source of worry to airline operators in Nigeria. The Accountable Manager, Dana Air, Mr. Obi Mbanuzuo said that the operating airlines in the country are not finding the sordid situation palatable, saying that the dwindling fortune of naira had affected their operations negatively. Speaking with our correspondent in an interview, Mbanuzuo decried that maintenance of aircraft, acquisition of airlines and purchase of spare parts and even at times, payments of salaries are in foreign currencies, stressing that with the fall of naira, the airline operators are struggling to remain in the air. The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, still pegs naira to dollar exchange rate at N198, but the currency is being sold at N270 per dollar in the black market. He however said that the airline operators had complained the worrisome situation to the Federal Government and received an assurance from the government that the situation would improve very soon. He said, “In one sentence, we are not coping, but we have to survive. As you know, maintenance, spare parts even salaries and others are paid for in hard currency, but we earn all our revenues in naira. We

are not coping, but we have to survive. It’s not easy for us. “We discussed with the former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Aviation, Mrs. Binta Bello on this issue. I think the government has assured us that things would turn around very soon for all of us in the country especially in the New Year.” On the controversy that trailed its planned commencement of regional operations from Murtala Muhammed Airport Two, MMA2, Lagos recently, Mbanuzuo declined to comment much on this, but simply replied that the airline would only operate from any approved terminals for its operations. “We will operate from the airport that is approved for us. It is not about just an airline, but all the airlines, when the concessionaire settles with the government. So, when they are through with what they want to do, we will operate from a terminal that is best for the passengers,” he said. He also revealed the plans of the airline to boost its fleet in 2016 with different brand of aircraft. “In 2016, Dana Air would bring in a new fleet of aircraft, but I would not pre-empt what our analysts are doing. We will go to grow the Anglophone countries then to the francophone countries. There are only a couple of airlines that are doing it right in terms of African connectivity. I’m looking at five years down the line, we want to make sure we grow the region properly.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Total Nigeria boosts safer petroleum products transportation with hi-tech

otal Nigeria has installed two high-tech driving simulators at its Truck Drivers Training School and Inspection Centre in Ibadan and its Head office in Lagos. The move is part of Total Nigeria’s commitment to improving road safety with the broad objective to replicate and model real-life driving conditions for the purpose of building safe driving practices and culture amongst truck drivers in the country. The simulators are to serve as active training tools that will be used to prepare drivers for the management of unpredictable hazards that may occur when driving, such as collision avoidance. A statement by the company indicated that studies had shown that motor vehicle crashes were significantly higher among inexperienced drivers during their first year of licensure, indicating also that crash risks decline with increased experience. Total Nigeria Plc’s Management System for Transport Coordinator, Mr. Ajibola Abdulwaheed Alaga, said the Total Truck Drivers Training School and Inspection Centre in Ibadan, Oyo state, had witnessed series of remark-

able improvements since it was established on March 28, 2011. “It has been given several facelifts with modern facilities to effectively educate drivers, enhance and improve driver safety, knowledge and driving methods”, Abdulwaheed Alaga said. In his remarks, the company’s General Manager (Health Safety Environment & Quality), Rabiu Abdulmutalib, said that with continued success, the Total Truck Drivers Training School and Inspection Centre is well on its way to improving road transportation safety as well as the transportation and distribution of petroleum products throughout Nigeria. He explained that more importantly, since its establishment truck accident rate and accident fatality have reduced by over 60 per cent and 95 per cent respectively showing an indication of the company’s commitment to improved transportation safety and a better energy future. The Ibadan drivers’ training school currently houses three standard classrooms, an auditori-

um, a laboratory, automated accident intervention, fire-fighting platforms, and a loading gantry.

Sweden’s budget credibility at risk, National forecaster warns

L-R: Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications Keystone Bank, Mrs. Omobolanle Osotule; Mrs Titi Bashorun; Mrs. Shola Adeogun; Mrs. Oluwatoyin Odusanya of the Lagos State Citizens Mediation Centre; Deputy General Manager, Construction & Infrastructure, Keystone Bank, Mr. Jose Abubakar; Mrs. Folashade Adebayo and Mrs. Bukola Idowu-Koya of the Lagos State Citizens Mediation Centre at a courtesy visit to Keystone Bank by members of the Lagos State Citizens Mediation Centre…recently.

Jumia engages APO for PR services in Nigeria Isaiah Erhiawarien

umia, the online shopping mall, has said that it had engaged the services of African Press Organisation, APO, for its media relations services in Nigeria. The services, which will extend to other African countries was signed by Jumia Nigeria and includes wire services for the online shopping mail. Founder and Chief Executive Officer of APO, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard , said that he had been watching Jumia from the beginning, and he believed that their communication strategy is a great model to follow for all entrepreneurial businesses in Africa. He noted that APO is proud to be working with Jumia saying that it does not matter if you are in Africa or anywhere in the world, everyone is after the same thing; efficient innovative fast service. Jumia now operates in 11 African countries, overcoming along the way trust and logistic issues that

span across the continent. He said that Jumia can boast of many commercial successes, Black Friday being the most elaborate proof that e-commerce is here to stay in Africa noting that it was indeed a frantic success as more than 2.3 million Nigerian customers flooded the website on November 27th 2015, leading the e-commerce to generate 25 times more revenue on one single day than on any other day. According to him, 2016 will be decisive for Jumia Nigeria as it will strive to maintain a top class customer’s experience and offer an even wider assortment of products available in the country adding that it will undoubtedly tell the public about its progress and its campaigns along the way. Launched in June 2012, Jumia is already reaching breaking numbers for internet shopping; selling books, fashion wear, electronics and more. Jumia has taken leaps and jumps to becoming the fastest growing e-commerce business offering the largest assortment of online shopping.

ecent signals from the Swedish Finance Ministry have raised questions that threaten to put its fiscal policy credibility at risk, according to the nation’s main independent forecaster. The Swedish National Institute of Economic Research said that “ambiguities” in how the government and parliament plan to change the budget framework need to be addressed “if the credibility of fiscal policy is to be maintained,” according to a report published on Monday. “Despite a positive output gap in the coming years, public finances will continue to show deficits,” NIER said. “It is therefore clear that, for the moment, the budget surplus target is no longer relevant, and it is unclear which principles are currently guiding fiscal policy.” The comments follow remarks by Finance Minister Magdalena Andersson, who in November told Bloomberg that a “krona-for-krona” principle adhered to by previous governments didn’t need to be treated as a “sacred cow.” Sweden’s Social Democrat-led government has struggled to find ways to pay for the country’s generous asylum policies as hundreds

of thousands of refugees fleeing the Middle East make their way to the Nordic country of 9.8 million. Andersson has already made clear that the cost of absorbing so many people will leave a dent on Sweden’s budget. But economists have warned against abandoning budget financing standards that have long formed the foundation of AAArated Sweden’s surplus target. “There is greater uncertainty about the fiscal framework than ever before,” NIER said. The government has signaled it is hoping that rapid economic growth in Sweden will help cover some of those costs. NIER revised up its forecast for gross domestic product next year, which it now sees growing 3.9 percent, compared with an October estimate of 3.1 percent. The institute also said that, despite debt growth in absolute terms, the ratio of debt to GDP “will still drop back towards 40 percent due to strong growth in GDP” in coming years. In an interview earlier this month, Andersson praised Sweden’s “fantastic” GDP growth, which she said was a “positive” in terms of helping the government meet its budget and employment goals.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Real Estate & Environment Charting roadmap to implementation of FG’s roads, housing projects The appointment of Hadjia Amina Mohammed as Environment Minister has raised the bar of expectations in the sector, but stakeholders believe her experience and exposure working in the sustainable development circles may not translate to much in growing the sector except she brings it to bear on addressing the myriad of environmental challenges in the country. Olufemi Adeosun writes.

he appointment of Amina Mohammed as the Minister of Environment by President Muhammadu Buhari has not only been described by sector’s analysts as desirable for moving the sector forward, it has, however, come with burden of expectations from all stakeholders. According to environment experts, the expectations of a magic wand from this sustainable development expert are not mis- the issue of desertification which is would determine her level of success placed given her level of exposure as threatening the livelihood of millions in the all-important sector. a one-time Senior Special Assistant of people in the northern part of the An environment enthusiast and to the Nigerian President on Millen- country and as well as curtail the is- chief executive officer, Connected nium Development Goals (MDGs) and sues of sea level rise in the coastal Development(CODE), Mr. Hamzat Special Adviser on post-2015 develop- areas, and erosion in the south-east, Lawal, commended the President for ment planning to the United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon. While viewing her appointment as m quite excited that for the a practical demonstration of the commitment of the present administrafirst time after so many years tion to bringing environment issues we now have a technocrat as to the front-burner of socio-economic development, the stakeholders enan nvironment inister joined the new minister to justify the confidence reposed in her by setting owever we need to see actions achievable targets for the environment in the short, medium and short geared towards popularizing run. For instance, they urged her to imclimate education so that mediately set out plans, backed up with appropriate institutional framecommunities can take ownership work, that would help in addressing of it overtime the various environmental challenges confronting the nation. According to them, the way she handles

I’

We need concerted efforts to tackle climate change –Accenture boss 30

NSEtasksnewFellows on professionalism 27

the choice of Amina Mohammed as the environment minister, noting that it was the first time in the annals of the nation that a technocrat would be appointed to man the ministry. On his expectations from the minister, he stated,” I’m quite excited that for the first time after so many years, we now have a technocrat as an Environment Minister. However, we need to see actions geared towards popularizing climate education so that communities can take ownership of it overtime. “Also, now the we have a global binding climate deal as an exciting outcome from Paris COP21 and seeing “madam minister” at the forefront shaping the discussions that inspired a concrete outcome, it is time we held a national COP (Conference of People, not even parties in this case) in Nigeria to set priorities and timelines in achieving them. Also, we need to see synergy between government MDAs, CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

Real Estate Finance Culture War272

Real Estate & Environment

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Charting roadmap to implementation of FG’s roads, housing projects CONTINUED FROM 25

private sector, academia, media, youth, civil society groups, women groups, farmers, indigenous vulnerable groups coming together to tackle the impact of climate change being championed under the leadership of our brand new minister. Hamzat, who is also a co-founder of “Follow the Money”, a fiscal discipline advocacy group, warned that the minister would need to urgently investigate the controversies trailing the N9.2billion clean cookstoves intervention programme designed for rural women to curb indoor air pollution and desertification arising from indiscriminate felling of trees for domestic purposes. According to him, getting to the root of the matter with a view to making the intervention programme achieve its set goals would build more confidence in her leadership to ensure transparency and accountability moving forward on all the activities of her ministry. He also called on the minister to put in place policies that would promote green investment, noting that the people want to see international partnership around investments in clean and renewable energy which can create sustainable jobs for our teeming young people who are currently unemployed. Hamzat clarified: “Climate change has hampered the achievement of vision 2020 and if not urgently and appropriately addressed, it would also hamper Nigeria in achieving the Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Madam minister should see the Environment Ministry as the most important sector that would address most, if not all our social vices as a vibrant Environment Ministry would create an enabling environment and a level ground for social, economic, political progressions which would in turn lead and inspire other sectors to fall in line towards achieving real and tangible change. “Her greatest allies should be the media as it would provide her a platform to popularise her programmes and reach every Nigerian, most importantly our grass roots who are most vulnerable. Timely and adequate information is key for policy decisions and actions as it shapes sustainability and ownership by all”, the environmentalist added. In his views, Chief Executive, Charity Aid and Development Foundation for Africa, Mr. Patric Tolani, stressed that under the new minister, Nigerians would want the country to begin to domesticate some of the agreement reached with the rest of the world. He added, “This is a very important ministry especially given the developments in the International parlance regarding the obligation of

countries to meet their carbon emission reduction targets. A lot is going on in the international environment which many Nigerians are not aware of. I expect this ministry to downgrade our obligations from the level of fantasy to reality. “The truth is, global warming is a reality. For developing countries, we are not only contributing to the devastation of the environment, which is probably inevitable given our level of development; but in case the level of degradation of the plant and animal life continues with the attendant catastrophic events, we are the least prepared to mitigate the impact of such occurrences.”

The

For the minister to make the desired impact, the grassroots development expert, urged the her to establish a good rapport with other relevant ministries, stressing that environment is a cross-cutting issue that needs the cooperation of other sectors to succeed. “The minister must be able to work with her colleagues in ministries such as power, housing, oil and gas to extract their commitment to mainstream environmental issues into their project planning and execution framework. “Although the implementation of the Renewable Energy and Efficiency policy sits with the Ministry of

need to start benefiting

from the requisite credits from carbon reduction projects has become very urgent as well.

This

will help the country to drive more resources into the country and also give the international community the

the

commendable

insight efforts

into we

are making to promote carbon emission reduction programmes in the country

Commissioning of Bank of Industry-funded Solar power project in Osun State... recently

Power as the lead agency; I strongly believe that the Minister of Environment should take the bull by the horns and ensure that more is done to achieve the target that we have set for ourselves in deploying more nonfossil fuel powered energy projects in the country. “The need to start benefiting from the requisite credits from carbon reduction projects has become very urgent as well. This will help the country to drive more resources into the country and also give the international community the insight into the commendable efforts we are making to promote carbon emission reduction programmes in the country,” he noted. He also advised the minister to recalibrate the perception that the public hold about that ministry and give it a profile that would make the government and the public know the importance of the environment to reducing poverty and fostering sustainable development. An Abuja based environmentalist, Mrs. Aisha Buba, wants the minister to mainstream the issue of gender into the environment beyond rhetoric, saying that all over the world, women and children are always the vulnerable groups in the event of any environmental hazard. She also stressed the imperative of creation of awareness on the issues of environment, which according to her, would help to inculcate the culture of environment protection in the lives of the local dwellers, rather than spending huge amount of money on curative and bail-outs.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Real Estate & Environment

NSE tasks new Fellows on professionalism

MORTGAGE NOTES with Adenike Fasanya-Osilaja

Olufemi Adeosun, Abuja

Email: Nike@MVPSolutionsinc.com https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=35277333

Real Estate Finance Culture War 2

wrote at length last time, about the mortgage finance industry needs to rethink the verbiage used in marketing its products, to help the consumer market get more comfortable, and therefore more willing to access mortgage finance. This week I would like to discuss the challenges facing women in home ownership. While my primary focus is Nigeria, I am aware that the issues I will raise today apply to pretty much every “developing country” in today’s global system. In several cultures worldwide, it is sad but true, that women are very much second class citizens. In fact, I would say women are third class citizens because a woman’s children have a say in her husband’s family, while she does not. This is the concept of the “chattel wife” as seen over and over again in our system. We have a system where a woman goes through years of education and multiple degrees, attains the highest levels in her career, and works as hard, if not harder than most of her colleagues, yet when she steps into her husband’s family home, she becomes almost nothing more than a shadow – seen and not heard. Her CEO status is taken off at the door along with her shoes, and her place until she leaves at the end of the day, is in the kitchen. In several societies, a woman cannot own property, or even accept employment, without her husband’s permission. Again, the traditional role of the woman has been to give up her natural impulses to achieve at the highest levels available to her, in deference to the traditional notion that she has no rights or privileges beyond those magnanimously ascribed to her by her husband. Young women are advised not to be too successful, and if they are successful, not to live a life commensurate with their level of achievement, because driving a Mercedes Benz or owning a luxury apartment would “intimidate” would-be suitors, and doom her to the “horror” of never getting married. Nowhere is this travesty more apparent than in the area of home ownership. It is amazing that in 2015, with the world class education and access to enlightenment in our society, a woman (traditionally) still has no ownership in her own marital home. We still have a system where, upon a man’s death, his wife is forcibly ejected from the home she shared with her spouse, (in sev-

eral cases, along with her children), and the husband’s family takes over the property. The saddest part of this is that, though very few men will admit it; these women had actually supported their spouses throughout the construction of the property, contributing both in cash and in kind towards it. As if that would not be devastating enough, these families proceed to basically loot their deceased brother’s home, impounding any vehicles, clothing, jewellery and other items of value, with the assertion that it “belonged to their son’, as if the poor wife played no part whatsoever, in the husband’s economic growth. It must be seen as a challenge for all of us, especially our new Minister for Housing, Attorney BabatundeRajiFashola, a seasoned Legal Practitioner, and his housing team, to focus squarely on addressing this injustice. We must start to talk about the unfairness of this practice. We must start to recognize a woman’s right to have a spousal interest in her marital home at a level superior to his family’s interest. We must allow women, nay; we must EMPOWER women, to confidently seek to become home owners in their own right, should they so wish. With the advent of a much more robust lands registry, the notion of customary courts deciding such property matters should be widely discouraged, and what we call “Homestead Rights” must be established. A homestead right simply refers to a prima facie right of a spouse, to remain in the house she has shared with her husband (or the other way around). Even a mortgage lien is subordinate to a homestead right, and that right can only be waived with the written consent of the spouse. I am convinced that this would quickly contribute to the stabilization of women’ lives and homes after the devastation of the loss of their spouse. One of the most efficient ways to empower homebuyer

purchases in women would be through the provision of Down Payment Assistance (DPA) funds. In several countries, Down Payment Assistance is provided by the government to assist citizens with a portion of their down payment for an owner occupied loan, in those sections of the populace that a need to increase ownership is identified. A DPA is usually monetary in nature, and is provided on behalf of a home buyer that has completed some preapproval processes, especially homebuyer education and counselling, to reduce the amount she would have to come up with, as her portion of the funds to purchase the property she is interested in. I have ALWAYS thought that I would absolutely LOVE to set up an NGO/Non Profit foundation, simply for this purpose. The need for such assistance is so obvious to me, that I am surprised the government has not done anything nationally on this matter. Our mothers should not be cast out on the streets, with the children they birthed during their marriage, simply because their husband is no more. This is immoral, inhumane, and should be roundly condemned anywhere it exists. With all the hoopla about the “17 million housing deficit”, I would xxxxxhave expected someone to realize that the number is not just made up of the male, but also includes the female gender of the population. So please let us stop with the fake posturing and gimmicks, and actually address the areas of our system that need correction…and I would put it to you that not only would the real estate market see a large influx of new buyers, but we will have made provision for the widow and the orphan, which is a duty placed on all of us. As usual, I welcome all comments on this article. I can be reached by email at nike@mvpsolutionsinc.com, on LinkedIn at Adenike Fasanya-Osilaja, and please follow me on Twitter @ NikeFinancePro

ABOUT THE WRITER Fasanya-Osilaja a lawyer and mortgage expert has owned and operated Marvel Ventures Mortgage, Inc. (www.marvelmortgage.com), a Chicagobased Mortgage Brokerage Company since 2000 and has worked in the US Mortgage industry since 1996. She also consults and facilitates industryrequired activities, from set up of mortgage organisations to documentation, training and compliance.

he President, Nigerian Society of engineers, Engr. Ademola Olorunfemi has confirmed fellowship awards on thirty deserving engineers. Speaking during the Quarterly Dinner and Fund Raising for NSE Abuja National Engineering Centre, Phase 2, project, Olorunfemi charged the new fellows to see their new professional status as yet another opportunity to re-dedicate themselves to the development of the profession as well as the nation in general. He said: ,”Fellowship of the Nigerian Society of Engineers is the highest honour bestowed by the Society on members who have been found worthy of such honour in professional development, practice and contribution to the growth of the noble profession of engineering, as well as to the development of his immediate society and the nation in general. “I welcome our new Fellows to the prestigious league and assure them that their conferment tonight is by dint of hard work and dedication. However, and more importantly, I want to implore you to see this

conferment as wake-up call; a tonic to galvanize you and increase your interest in and contribution to the growth and development of your primary professional constituency, the NSE, as well as the engineering profession and our nation, in general. “I charge you to see yourselves as worthy ambassadors of NSE, especially at this time in our history when we are on the threshold of self-discovery.” Olorunfemi used the occasion to brief members on the progress made so far on the NEC’s Phase 2 project, even as he solicited donation to enable the organisation complete it at record time. According to him, while the Fund Raising Appeal which was launched in 2014 through the Abuja NEC Implementation Committee have yielded the total sum of N21 million. I would require N462 million to complete the project. The NSE President estimaed the cost of the project at approximately N462 million and expressed his satisfaction the ceremony availed members and friends another opportunity for donations to enable the professional body pursue more vigorously the drive for completion of the project.

Weak rand dampens South Africa’s property business

rior to now, South African had listed property outperformed equities and bonds, mustering a 15 percent return in rand for the first 11 months of 2015. Africa Property News.com Media Director, Ortneil Kutama said this year is the most difficult in property business in many developing countries. He said despite the weak currencies in some of some African countries, some African property funds have held-up well and many listed property companies in South Africa outperformed equities and cash. “In SA, by the middle of December, the South African rand had lost close to 30 percent of its value against the dollar. This weakened that country’s listed property sector’s overall return severely,” Kutama stated. ‘’Until the ministerial merry-goround in SA’s government, South African listed property outperformed equities and bonds, mustering a 15 percent return in rand terms for the first 11 months of 2015. But then the rand plummeted against the dollar’’. According to him, by December 15, the listed property had achieved a return of minus 2.42 percent while the JSE had lost 2.91 percent since January 1, 2015. However, the rand took a severe tumble when South African president Jacob Zuma fired Minister of

Finance, Nhlanhla Nene. He was replaced by David van Rooyen, an unknown in financial roles, who was then replaced by former minister of finance, Pravin Gordhan less than a week. Bringing Gordhan back did reverse some of the rand collapse but ratings agencies remain wary about SA as an investment destination. Gross Domestic Product growth is expected to be bad for 2015 and weak again next year. At least one of the three leading ratings agencies, Fitch Ratings, was not convinced that replacing littleknown Desmond van Rooyen with more experienced Pravin Gordhan as finance minister will change the country’s future. Fitch downgraded SA to BBBthis month, its lowest investmentgrade rating, but changed its outlook to stable from negative. Economic forces then remain a threat to listed property next year. After several years of double-digit total returns, commentators are forecasting that listed property will struggle next year. It is expected to muster only single digit returns, slightly above prevailing inflation rates. The fear of an interest rate hike in the US led to a selloff in bonds. This resulted in bond yields rising globally. The performance of listed property tends to follow that of bonds as both are income-generating investments.

Real Estate & Environment

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

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We need concerted efforts to tackle climate change –Accenture boss SYLVA EMEKA-OKEREKE

s global efforts are geared towards reducing carbon emission, the world leaders as well as policy makers have been urged to accelerate actions against climate change. Country Manager for Accenture in Nigeria, Mr. Niyi Yussuf, made this call while assessing the United Nations Global CompactAccenture CEO Study, tagged, ‘Special Edition: A Call to Climate Action’released in November 2015. The study, which was carried out using surveys conducted

withCEOs of Caring for Climate participant companies, business leaders from 750 Global Compact participants, drawn from 152 countries across 41 industry sectors and participants, reported that “91 percent of business leaders believe that climate change is an urgent priority for businesses, progress is on track to restrict global warming to less than 2 degree Celsius, while 66 percent believe business is not doing enough to tackle climate change.” While highlighting the growth and innovation opportunities attached to efforts towards combat-

ing climate change, the study reported that 70 percent (of leaders from the world’s largest companies) see opportunities for growth and innovation, 67 percent report a clear business case for action, while 69 percent see investment in climate solutions as essential to competitive advantage.” The study also shows that “onethird of business leaders surveyed believe that progresses on track to restrict global warming to less than 2 degrees Celsius (2C)—and just one-third believe that companies in their industry are doing enough”

Yusuf however noted that “Climate change is a momentous threat to development to peace and security and to market stability. While the pace of action by governments, businesses and society at large has increased, he said individual and collective efforts must be accelerated further, if the threat of catastrophic climate change is to be removed effectively. It is with this in mind that we renew our call to the business community to make a lasting commitment to climate action now. He also added that it would require enabling action on the part

of governments and policymakers in order to unlock the potential of the private sector. According to him, joint efforts will result in great results as business leaders are moving to find solutions and adopt low-carbon business models, while companies in every region and in every industry sector are already realizing opportunities for growth and innovation in addressing the climate challenge. He concluded that CEOs see five critical policy measures that can unlock further private sector investment and address the cli-

mate challenge and listed them to include, ‘legislative and mechanisms to increase investment in climate solutions; financial instruments to stimulate R&D and innovation; performance standards to

reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate resilience, global, robust and predictable carbon pricing mechanisms; and removal or phasing out of fossil fuel subsidies in low-carbon solutions.

NCF, Oxfam train farmers on climate change adaptation Sylva Emeka-Okereke

N L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Sofunix Investment and Communications, Mr. Sola Oni; Chief Executive Officer, Geo Medical Centre, Dr. Adetomiwa George; Managing Director, Vono Products Plc, Mr. Tunji Anjorin; and Group Head, Sales and Marketing, Vitafoam Nigeria Plc, Mr. Sola Owoade, during the inauguration of Vono Hospital Furniture in Lagos last Thursday.

Ghana opens $60m retail centre

$60 million Achimota retail centre located in north-eastern Accra has been opened. It is the latest shopping mall development to be completed in Ghana. Thousands of shoppers and curious locals descended on the brand new, 15,000m² retail destinations to shop for their Christmas items. Developed by Atterbury Property, the Centre is located on a prime 4ha site in the town Dome near the St. John’s Grammar School and alongside the AccraNsawam Highway. West Africa Head of Developments of Atterbury Property, Roux Gerber said “after 18 months of construction, we are thrilled to open the Achimota Retail Centre, which takes shopping to whole new level in this region of Ghana.” The shopping centre is anchored by South Africa’s Shoprite and local Ghanaian food and general merchandise retail chain, Palace. South African and local Ghanaian retail brands part of the tenant mix includes Jet, Mr Price, MTN, Nallem, Foods Inn, CompuGhana and KFC, amongst others.

The centre - a single level mall - is home to 51 line stores, offering convenience, retail and fashion brands, as well as a restaurant and food court. It has basement parking for 250 cars and a further 335 open air parking bays. Says Gerber: “The centre is the first shopping mall in Ghana to have a traditional ‘chop bar’, offering local delicacies in a modern mall environment. Children’s games and other recreational activities are also part of the mix at the mall.” Its design includes sustainability features such as grey water

harvesting, environmentally conscious landscaping and a building management system. The project is owned by Atterbury and Delico Achimota Limited, the same group that is the majority shareholder of West Hills Mall and which is majority controlled by Attafrica Limited. Chairman of Delico Achimota Limited, Kofi Sekyere said, residents in neighbouring communities like Achimota, Dome, Tantra Hills, Taifa, Ofankor and the estates of Ashongman, Parakou and Kwabenya, will now be able to access both basic necessities.

igerian Conservation Foundation, NCF and Oxfam have formed a synergy geared towards improving the resilience of small scale farmer’s, aimed at adapting to climate change. With the initiative tagged, Farmers Field School (FFS), the farmers are prepared on measures against climate change as well as its effects on food crops. This measure will also make small scale farmers to cope with the negative effects of climate change. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the initiative in Omo J4 Forest Reserve, the Chief Conservation Officer, NCF, Adedamola Ogunsesan said though, the menace of climate change and its numerous effects is a global issue, but each country will develop its strategy, aimed at ameliorating the impacts on human lives as well as agricultural productions to tackle issues of food security. According to him, Ogun state

Prevent irreversible damage to Virunga National Park, says EP

he Virunga National Park, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has become one of the most dangerous places in the world when it comes to wildlife conservation, said Parliament in a resolution adopted on Thursday. MEPs called for measures to protect this UNESCO World Heritage Site which is also home to the endangered mountain gorilla species. Parliament expressed its deep concern at the irreversible damage which could be caused to the

Virunga National Park (VNP) as a result of oil exploration and exploitation that is “not compatible with World Heritage Status”. The resolution, adopted by a show of hands, points to the British oil company SOCO International which, in violation of different international conventions, has conducted oil exploration in and around Lake Edward, an area which is home to chimpanzees, elephants, crocodiles and lions, some of which are endangered. The com-

pany should “stop all exploration and exploitation within Virunga permanently,” says the resolution. Parliament encourages the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo to develop sustainable energy and economic alternatives to extractive industries. “Sustainable management of Virunga’s land, water and wildlife will have direct and indirect economic benefits for communities that rely heavily on the park’s natural resources,” says the resolution.

like other states in the country, is faced with low food harvest due to lack of ineffective farming practices by farmers and inadequate knowledge to effectively manage the effects of climate change on food crop production. He therefore noted that farmers in rural communities should be equipped with knowledge on how to tackle climate-induced poor yields, poor soil fertility, low nutrient retaining ability, abnormal flow of rain fall as well as spreading of common and uncommon diseases. “Adaptation strategies are short and long-term changes to human activities that respond to the effects of changes in climate. In agriculture, adaptation will require cost-effective investments in water infrastructure, emergency preparation for and response to extreme weather events, development of resilient crop varieties that tolerate temperature and precipitation stresses, and new or improved land use and management practices”. The initiatives are also interested in the use of indigenous knowledge as adaptation strategies. According to the NCF Field Officer in OMO Forest Reserve, Clifford Omonu, the initiative requires grassroots experiments, regular field observations and group analysis among others. The knowledge gained from these activities would enable

participants to make their own locally-specific decisions about crop practices and management as it affects them.

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Jobs & Career

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

ILO to provide technical assistance to Nigeria Sylva Emeka-Okereke

irector General of the International Labour Organization, ILO, Mr Guy Ryder, has expressed the willingness of the organization to provide technical assistance to the Federal Government as at when needed. Ryder noted that such collaboration would deepen the relationship with the country, especially through the provision of jobs, saying that the activities of the organization are geared towards creating jobs and lifting countries from the poverty line. He assured that adequate attention would be given to the concerns of Nigerians. His promise came on the heels of the Federal Government’s request for the training of displaced Nigerians in the wake of the Boko Haram crisis in the country. It would be noted that the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige had urged the ILO to assist in the training of the Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, in the northern part of the country. Ngige, who made the request at the

Labour Minister, Chris Ngige

just-concluded 13th African regional meeting of the ILO held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, also expressed concerns that no ILO Director General has ever visited Nigeria since its formation several years ago. He however noted that several millions of displaced persons in the country need to be trained and rehabilitated. The Minister, who confirmed that

Ryder

ILO officials are favourably disposed to Nigeria’s request, said it has agreed to set up a multi-disciplinary team as well as upgrading of the agency in Abuja, considering its strategic position and contributions to International Labour Diplomacy, disclosing that the organization would also participate in Nigeria’s social security programme, which is an ILO initiative.

“We requested the ILO to rehabilitate and train majority of the over 20 million Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, affected by insurgency in Northeastern part of the country. We need comprehensive crisis response strategies to capture them in the Social Security Net”, he stated. The Minister also noted that the Federal Government would tackle the challenges posed by massive unemployment through the expansion of the nation’s capacity in agriculture, solid minerals and industry. Ngige explained that closer partnership with the ILO was desirable for t the country in view of the current drive by government to frontally tackle unemployment problem. “Our Government, which is barely six month old, inherited an economy bested by myriads of challenges that need strong and focused leadership to surmount. We are therefore re-doubling efforts to stimulate the economy by gingering the untapped creative capacity of our people especially the youths, through the promotion of varying range of vocational skills intended to achieve a self-reliant population’’, the Minister said.

Ship owners boost cadets’ practical training with 100 berths Francis Ezem

s part of measures to boost the sea time training for Nigerian cadets, Ship Owners Association of Nigeria SOAN has provided a total of 100 training spaces for indigenous cadets on board their ships. Available records show that no fewer than 6,000. Nigerian cadets who have completed their various seafaring programmes at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria MAN, Oro in Akwa Ibom State in the last 11 yearshave yet to do the one-year mandatory on board sea time training as preascibed by the International Maritime Organisation IMO. President of the association, Mr. Greg Ogbeifun, who made the disclosure, said that the 100 training spaces are mainly for the nation’s cadets trained under the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme NSDP, a brainchild

of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA. According to him, the provision of the training spaces was also to demonstrate members support for the NSDP, adding that the move was designed to check the inability of Nigerian cadets to do their practical training due to the absence of Nigerian owned ocean going ships in the country’s fleet. Ogbeifun, who ddressed officials of government and stakeholders, said that it was regrettable that there are no vessels on which Nigerian cadets could do their mandatory sea-time training. He stated that skilled mariners who are trained to the best international standards are part of the requirements for advancing the shipping and maritime industry in the country. Ogbeifun blamed these developments on the demise of Nigeria’s National carrier, Nige-

rian National Shipping Line NNSL, which he described as the platform on which most existing Nigerian mariners acquired their seafaring experience. “The NNSL as a national carrier had a record of over 30 vessels and had produced so many skilled mariners to the highest international standards and overtime created employment and training berths for seafarers through this prospect”, he lamented. He explained: “The demise of the NNSL meant the total disappearance of this fleet of vessels that provided the sea time training opportunities and cadets’ training in Nigeria; which happens to be an essential requirement for Maritime human capacity development” The SOAN boss noted that practical training of the cadets is the association’s contribution to the growth and development of the industry, adding that SOAN members are collectively

providing one hundred training berths on their ships to support the NSDP scheme being undertaken by NIMASA. He however called on the Federal Government to strategically address the dearth of seafarers, stressing that the development of human capacity was essential for the growth of the industry and Nigeria’s economy. The International Maritime Organisation IMO, Convention on Standards of Training, Certificate and Watchkeeping (STCW) 1978 for seafarers prescribes a one-year mandatory sea time training on board ocean going vessels as a pre-requisite for the issuance of Certificate of Competence CoC, without which a seafarer cannot be gainfully employed. More than one year after the MoU, the training has yet to commence, a development that may have also compelled the SOAN members to donate the 100 training spaces.

Total Nigeria boosts skill acquisition for Koko community youths

….commissions fish farm, donates furniture to school

otal Nigeria Plc penultimate Monday commissioned a fish farm in Koko, Delta state as starter pack for one of its Skill Acquisition Programme graduates, Mr. Esiategiwa Anthony Utieyin. He graduated from Fish Farming Vocational training under the programme’s 2014 batch and was provided with the fish farm to launch his business. Esiategiwa, who was obviously elated expressed profound gratitude to the company and promised to make best use of

the opportunity to the benefit of his community. The Chairman of the Koko community Management Authority Mr. Jerry Atigan commended Total whilst also emphasizing the commitment of its youths and their determination to maximize such opportunities. Total Nigeria Plc’s Corporate Social Responsibility Manager, Mrs. Chinwe Ifechigha said “since establishing its lubricant blending facility in Koko, Delta state, Total Nigeria Plc has embarked on

empowering youths of this community with vocational trainings under the auspices of the Skills Acquisition Program. Launched in 2008, it has since equipped over 100 young men and women who now run their various successful businesses”. In another development, the company also commissioned the provision of school furniture for the library, computer room and all classrooms in Ugogomeje Nursery & Primary School in Koko, Delta State. The chairman of the Education Committee, Mr. Michael Eyide shared a commendation message from the Delta State Government to Total for its sus-

tained efforts towards promoting quality education. “At the heart of our core value is an unwavering commitment to capacity building and youth empowerment as these energise communities to grow and develop sustainably. Through the Skills Acquisition Program, school furniture donations and other similar initiatives, we have been supporting the progressive future of our host communities. This is more so as impacted youths invariably contribute to the economic prosperity of their people”, Mr. Albert Mabuyaku, the Corporate Affairs Manager said.

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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Aviation

10yrs after Sosoliso crash: FG, stakeholders disagree over air safety standard It is a decade ago after the ill-fated Sosoliso Airlines’ aircraft crashed in Port Harcourt Airport where 105 out of the 107 passengers on onboard died in one of the most devastating air mishaps in the country. While government insists that several reforms had taken place after the crash, some industry analysts believe not much has been done to improve safety standards in the aviation sector. Olusegun Koiki writes.

t was a pathetic scene 10 years ago, precisely December 10, 2005, when over 107 passengers and crew members onboard Sosoliso aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas DC-9 plane, crashed at the threshold of the Port Harcourt Airport runway with all the passengers onboard, except two lucky ones, were burnt to ashes as fire fighters at the airport battled helplessly to save their lives. What made the accident more tragic was that it happened barely 49 days after the Bellview Airlines aircraft occurred at Lisa village in Ogun State, which the probable cause remains a mystery till date as the black boxes could not be found. About 65 passengers onboard the Sosoliso plane were students of a Abuja-based private school - Loyola Jesuit College - who were going home for the Christmas holiday. The reports claimed that the aircraft encountered windshear on landing at the airport. Within a spate of one year, 2005 to 2006, the Nigerian aviation industry recorded three major air crashes; Bellview Airlines on October 22, 2005 with 117 passengers onboard, Sosoliso Airlines with 107 passengers while ADC Airlines crashed in Abuja on October 29, 2006 with more than 100 souls barely three minutes after takeoff. The aircraft was also said to have encountered windshear on take-off. However, in a bid to prevent recurrence, the Federal Government through the Ministry of Aviation tasked the Accident Investigation Bureau, AIB, which as at the time of the accidents was still an arm of the Ministry of Aviation to investigate the causes of the accidents and report the outcome to the presidency. Apart from this, several approaches were made to ensure safety of air travellers within the country’s airspace. Within a year, the report of the accident was released to the public while several recommendations were made by the bureau. But, that of Bellview and ADC crashes reports were published in 2012 with far-reaching recommendations made to the appropriate bodies. But, sadly, 10 years after the Sosoliso crash, most of the families of the bereaved are yet to either be compensated or fully compensated by the airline, which closed shop immediately after the crash. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, which is the regulatory body in the sector, has also over the years kept mum on the fate of the families of the bereaved and the validity of insurance of the airline as at the time the plane crashed. Besides, after the accidents, the Federal Government released funds for the upgrade of facilities across the country with the installation of Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria, TRACON, equipment at airports and stations, procurement of communication gadgets for improved communication between pilots, acquisition and

Crashed Sosoliso aircarft plan

As I’m talking to you, about 11 accident reports are missing. If accident reports are missing, you are not likely to know the cause of that accident. If the cause of an accident is not known, you cannot correct it to the ones that are flying installation of Doppler and control tower, acquisition and installation of Doppler weather radar at airports and granting of autonomy to NCAA to take decisions on safety critical issues and also gave approval for AIB as an autonomous body. These followed safety recommendations made by AIB. Dr. Harold Demuren, the erstwhile DirectorGeneral of NCAA, was also brought in to sanitise the industry, a role he played until the unfortunate Dana Air crash of June 3, 2012, which claimed another 153 lives and eventually led to his removal from office. Despite these changes, some professionals and stakeholders in the industry still say the nation’s aviation industry had a long way to go to ensure total safety in the country’s airspace. The Secretary-General, Aviation Round Table, ART, Grp. Capt. (rtd) John Ojikutu, insisted that nothing had changed in the system in the past 10 years. He hinged his stance on what he called the privilege of being a member of Ministerial Committee on Accident Investigation Reports 2014 set up by the immediate past Minister of Aviation, Chief Osita Chidoka. Ojikutu explained that the setup of the committee exposed the several challenges in aviation accident reports in the country. Ojikutu alleged that most of the accident reports were not consistent with the findings while most of the findings too were at variance with

the direct cause of the accidents. He purported that no fewer than 11 accidents reports were missing from AIB, which he said would make it practically impossible for the country to know the immediate and remote causes of such accidents in the industry. He said, “But, I’m not going to comment much on this until the National Assembly who is looking for the report, I have directed them to where they can find the report because I have the full report of the accident myself and most of the other vital ones. “As I’m talking to you, about 11 accident reports are missing. If accident reports are missing, you are not likely to know the cause of that accident. If the cause of an accident is not known, you cannot correct it to the ones that are flying.” He also blamed NCAA for its inability to ensure total payment of compensation to the affected families, stressing that in one of the public hearings on the accident, the committee gave NCAA, the airline and the insurance company six weeks to resolve the issue of compensation, wondering why they were yet to resolve the issue 10 years later. “A whole year ran in circus and they didn’t pay and the committee gave them another four weeks in 2009 without thinking about the families. I say that those people in the National Assembly have no idea that their responsibilities is about the people of this country. Aviation is about the business of saving lives and not about making money and

except they understand it along that line, there is a problem,” he said. However, spokespersons of NCAA and AIB, Mr. Sam Adurogboye and Mr. Tunji Oketunbi respectively disagreed with these sets of professionals, insisting that several remarkable changes had taken place in the sector. Adurogboye refuted claims that the airline never paid any form of compensation to the families of the bereaved after the accident, saying that several far-reaching agreements were made between the airline and some of the victims’ families. According to him, at least 24 families of the victims accepted Sosoliso offer of full and final compensation, prior to the suspension of the airline’s operations. He said each family signed an agreement relieving Sosoliso of any further claim, positing that 10 families collected the initial offer of N1 million each and later additional N2 million as balance from the airline. Adurogboye further informed that out of the two survivors, one of the families collected compensations of N6 million while the other family didn’t follow up with the payment requirement. He pointed out that 63 families including 61 from the Loyola Jesuit College were paid $35,000 each, which was the part-payment of the negotiated amount of money while the balance of $35,000 was to be paid to the beneficiaries about 15 months after the resumption of the airline for operations, which never happened till date. He recalled further that an additional N3 million was donated for the construction of a memorial hall in honour of the dead students by the management of the airline, adding that eight families of the deceased didn’t come forward in respect of their compensation while 115 families refused any form of compensations from the airline. He explained: “Two of the victims’ families refused to respond to Sosoliso invitation for settlement. Some have unresolved dispute pertaining to next of keen. Don’t forget that the airline had to sell its aircraft to raise funds. “Meanwhile, NCAA as an intermediary and oversight agency, we are not to pay claims, run airline, but to oversight. Our hearts goes to the families of the victims because no amount of money can replace the dead. Our intention is to always make aviation save at all times.” Also, Oketunbi told our correspondent that lots of reforms and changes had taken place in the industry after the ill-fated accident a decade ago. According to him, the government instituted lots of reforms, which were still with the industry till date, stressing that part of the changes was the creation of AIB as an autonomous body from the former Accident Investigation and Prevention Bureau, AIPB, which was a department in the Ministry of Aviation.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Transport minister mulls medical facilities at airports Stories: Olusegun Koiki

he Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi has called for establishment of medical facilities at all airports across the country in order to save more lives in the industry. Speaking at the Accident Investigation Bureau, AIB, during a tour of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, MMA, Lagos, Amaechi recently, Amaechi said that it was necessary for the airport environment to have medical facilities, stressing that this would further aid the performance of AIB. The minister in company of the Minister of State for Transport, Senator Hadi Sirika commended the management of AIB for its recent release of reports of serious incidents and accidents in the industry. He urged the management of the bureau to continue to release to the public its reports, stressing that with this, recurrence of such accidents and serious incidents would greatly reduce in the system. He insisted that AIB and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, were two of the most important agencies in the country’s aviation industry and urged the Commissioner of AIB, Dr. Felix Abali to continue to be proactive in all its approaches. He said, “I want to congratulate AIB for its recent performances. Aviation is such a critical sector that anything can

L-R: Director of flight Operations, Dana Air, Capt. Segun Omole, Communications Manager, Mr. Kingsley Ezenwa, Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Obi Mbanuzuo being received by Dana Air’s Representative in Accra, Mr. Sukhjinder Mann on arrival at Accra Airport, during the airline’s inaugural flight from Lagos to Accra, recently.

happen at any time. So, I expect the management to be proactive with its performances. “You (AIB) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, are the two agencies that people should not toy with because you deal with human lives. I don’t think AIB is doing badly in terms of its performances and the country generally is not doing badly in term of aviation.” Earlier, Commissioner of AIB, Abali, said that through its reports of serious incidents and accidents, it had used its recommendations to effect changes in aviation safety. He said that with its past recommendations, it had made local and international impacts that had affected aviation safety positively, stressing that in doing this, AIB required well-trained, well-motivated and diligent pro-

fessional investigators. He declared that AIB needed hi-tech equipment and other sophisticated tools to aid its work, stressing that these two resources would help it to deliver on its mandate and fulfill the agency’s vision of being among the leading accident investigation bodies in the world. He added, “For now we have some dedicated and well trained professionals and some good facilities. We however need more in this direction. AIB is being funded through the 3 per cent of the Ticket Sales Charge, TSC, being collected by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, and Federal Government allocations through the Federal Budget. We can do with more funding. “We also have challenges just as we have great potential. We hope your visit will help in overcoming some of these challenges and reposition AIB among the leading accident investigation bodies in the world. The rest of issues concerning us will be passed across to you later sir.”

Air France offers yuletide gifts to children passengers

ne of the major European airlines flying into Nigeria, Air France said that it is offering its young clients exciting gifts to enable them enjoy their flights with it more. The airline stated that from 18 December, 2015, to celebrate the Christmas holidays, Air France would offer children travelling on its flights a selection of toys when they arrive at the airport. Statement issued in Lagos by the airline’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Mrs. Funmi Ojeshna hinted that the kids areas at the

Aircraft Cabin

long-haul Business lounges at ParisCharles de Gaulle and in the six kids areas dedicated to UMs (“Unaccompanied Minors”) at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Paris-Orly, the Company has introduced a new range of games in partnership with Mattel (Barbie, Cars and HotWheels toys and board games). She added that the airline has also joined forces with Bonpoint for the end-of-year celebrations as its agents would give families kits containing a range of cosmetics for mum, a cuddly toy, a wooden car or a doll at all the Business lounges at Paris-Charles de Gaulle.

Finally, Bayard Jeunesse magazines (Pomme d’Api, J’aime lire, Okapi, Adventure Box and Story Box) would also be given to young passengers at the Business lounges at ParisCharles de Gaulle. She added, “On board, there are also surprises for children (games kits, card games to colour in, noughts & crosses, tangrams) to ensure they have a fun trip. These surprises will be available throughout the holiday season on the entire Hop! Air France and Air France network on departure from Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Paris-Orly. “On 18 and 19 December 2015, Santa Claus is coming to Paris-Charles de Gaulle. On 18 December he’ll be at terminal F, check-in area 1 and on 19 December at terminal E, check-in area 20. He will be handing out gifts and having his photo taken with children so they can leave with an unforgettable souvenir. There will also be Christmas carols sung by the Air France choir.” Every year, over 1.3 million children travel on Air France flights, including 410,000 babies and 285,000 unaccompanied children.

Airside shegzzy4live2000@yahoo.co.uk 08186007273

The regular ritual tours

ast week, the Minister of Transport and Minister of State for Aviation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi and Senator Hadi Sirika respectively in company of other dignitaries in the country’s aviation industry toured the two most important nation’s airports; the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, NAA, Abuja and the Murtala Muhammed Airport, MMA, Lagos. Whenever a new minister is appointed for the industry, such an honourable minister and his entourage tour the airports for firsthand information and to familiarize themselves with facilities and equipment on ground. The last exercise, though as at last week not yet concluded, was not different from those of former ministers. In most cases, the new appointees, during media briefing, usually assess airport facilities low and decry the high level of decay of infrastructure, but most times ended up doing nothing to improve the situation. Airside and other concerned

stakeholders are tired of hearing the same statement from ministers, National Assembly Committees on Aviation and even Permanent Secretaries. Airside insists we all know the facilities are ageing while others are beyond repair and need replacement, but what changes is the present minister who is luckily an aviator is bringing to improve the sordid situation? Rather than heap the decay infrastructure on past government officials, Airside says the new minister and his team should carve a niche for themselves and upgrade the facilities to the state-of-the-art. Princess Stella Oduah came with the plans to remodel the existing airports, which she did to some extent while Chief Osita Chidoka focused his attention on software, which was delivering of improved services to passengers by airlines and organisations in the industry. Airside asks ‘what do Rotimi and Sirkika have for the industry?’ Only time will tell.

The competition and interest on Lagos-Accra route

agos-Accra route by flight is just 45 minutes and to access Ghana from Nigeria by road is less than eight hours. But, despite the closeness in distance between the two countries, there is intense competition on the route by airline operators especially from Nigeria. As at today, there are four Nigerian airlines flying directly to the route from Nigeria; Arik Air, Aero Contractors, Med-View Airline while Dana Air joined last week. Also, one airline is flying into Lagos from Ghana. In all, there are five carriers operating directly between the two countries. On a regular basis at least, 60 per cent of the seats are sold by the operating airlines. Airside is impressed

with this competition on the route, but still amazed at the opportunities in the former Gold Coast that drive Nigerians to it. As Dana Air joins the route, Airside wishes it happy flying time, but fear some of the established carriers on the route may start de-marketing to force others to close shop soon or even crash their fares ridiculously to reduce numbers of airlines on the route; a reminisce of Virgin Nigeria and Emirates Airlines on the Dubai route. However, no matter the approach that the carriers on the route may adopt, such should not have any impact on safety of passengers and equipment. Let’s wait to see the competition grows.

Emergency on Air France flight a “false alarm,” CEO says

ir France staff decided to land the Boeing 777 at the nearest airport - in the Kenyan port city of Mombasa - after a passenger found the object in the toilets late on Saturday and alerted crew, CEO Frederic Gagey said, according to Reuters “From the photos provided by the Kenyan authorities, nothing in the object found posed a threat for the plane or passengers,” he said. Air France said it planned to take legal action over the incident, without giving further details. The 459 passengers and 14 crew on board flight AF463 were

evacuated using the emergency slides after the plane landed at 2136 GMT. Kenyan Interior Minister Joseph Nkaissery told reporters at Mombasa’s Moi International Airport on Sunday that an undisclosed number of passengers were being questioned about the suspect device, but did not say if they were under arrest. Air France said in a statement it had “immediately decided to reinforce the security measures in Mauritius” after the incident, which follows three bomb alerts in the United States in the last few weeks, according to the report.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Insurance

Delisted brokers: Professionals, others endorse NAICOM’s action Isaac Asabor

ince the National Insurance Commission, NAICOM, imposed regulatory sanctions against 108 insurance brokers for failing to regularize their business licenses, diverse reactions have continued to trail the action from a broad spectrum of the insurance industry. For instance, within 24 hours that NAICOM disclosed its de-listment of 108 insurance brokers, for failing to renew their licenses, the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) was reported to have faulted the regulatory measure, alleging that the exercise is not transparent and in bad faith. Not only that, some media reported that NCRIB also kicked against the action on the grounds that it was not formally notified by the Commission as that would have given the Council a good reason to back the exercise and further respond to the issue, being the regulators of the brokers, and will then respond to them individually. According to the reports, the Council also disagreed with the action taken by NAICOM as there are some members affiliated to NCRIB “who have just few months to clear issues either in area of tax clearance or with the commission on certain items or the other, he, the commissioner promised that he will release their licenses and whatever issues they still have he is going to follow up on them and if they are wrong they will be penalized but if not he will let them be so they can continue to do their businesses pending when the issues are resolved.” The source added further that “based on the promise he gave to us, we did a circular to our members informing them of the position of the commission as regards the exercise, urging them to resolve all pending issues, such as returns, fines or any infractions committed etc with the commission to avoid being delisted . “But we were surprised to see some names of companies on this list that were obvious that they are not two or more years that they have not renewed their licenses as he the commissioner promised us when we met with in Abuja.” However, not everyone agreed with NCRIB’s position on the issue. For instance, as the former President of the Council and Chairman of Prestige Insurance Brokers Limited, Mr. Feyi Soyewo, differed by saying that NAICOM merely exercised its right that is entrenched in the insurance Act 2004. He welcomed the action of the commission by affirming that it is not good when brokers fail to get their licenses renewed. According to him, such dereliction portrays the brokers as

L-R: Chairman Governing Board, Centre for Insurance and Financial Management Studies, CIFMS, Mrs. Funmi Babington- Ashaye; Best student in Health/Medical Insurance, Olasomi Adebola; President, Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria, CIIN, Lady Isioma Chukwuma and Provost, CIFMS, Dr.(Mrs.) Yeside Oyetayo, during the first Graduation Ceremony of CIFMS, at the weekend. PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

unserious particularly for not being able to meet up with the rules and regulations laid down by the commission. He however assured that the council will look at it carefully and that any broker that has a genuine reason on his firm should not be delisted would have his case dispassionately looked into. He adds that the council is poised to protect its members. Reacting to National Mirror’s enquiries on the issue, Mr. Mayowa Adeduro, the managing director of Anchor Insurance Company of Nigeria said “the case of the delisted insurance brokers was quite a touchy issue. As professional colleagues my sympathy goes to the executives involved in those companies, especially, some respected institutions that we shockingly found their names on the list.” He said by virtue of the extant law in the industry “that NAICOM is empowered under Sections 8, 37, 38 and 39 of Insurance Act 2003 to cancel, suspend or fine any insurance broker that has failed to meet any of the requirements listed to wit: file in for renewal of licence within the period specified after expiration of previous licence. We do not have details of infractions of these companies. We may however assume that NAICOM gave windows of redress and monetary penalties provided within the law before the latest move.” However, he said that the operating environment for the insurance industry in the country is quite challenging and that it is replete with hurdles that may impede rendition of returns. He adds that the hurdles that needs to be crossed range from auditing of the accounts, renewal of Professional Indemnity Insurance and the payment of dues to NCRIB as well as the acquisition of certificate of no objection. Not only that,

he said for a broker to be on a clean note that he must reconcile and clear off outstanding dues to insurance companies and there must not be pending petition against such broker with NAICOM including the payment of supervision levy and corporate tax. He said some of the delisted brokers have issues to sort out. Some also have problems of compliance and reporting, including format of reporting accounts e.g compliance with IFRS. He however, said that he is optimistic that NAICOM will review their cases again and do something for those within pardonable offence. In what appears to be a justification of NAICOM’s stance, some analysts believe that the removal of the names of the brokers from the list of licensed operators is normal and expected from NAICOM as a regulatory body. To Mr. Ademola Ayodabo of the Corporate Services unit of Leadway Assurance, it is a welcome development as “it is healthy for the industry and will ensure that only certified and accredited brokers transact business. According to Mr. Desmond Igbinoba, an economist, he said the action NAICOM took can never be said to be in a bad faith as allowing the brokers to remain in business would amount to professional negligence on the part of the regulatory body. He reasoned, “Is NAICOM not a statutory agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria that was established by the law to regulate and supervise the Nigerian Insurance Sector?” He adds, “If the purpose behind the establishment of the organization is to regulate the activities of players in the sector, why are some stakeholders, who are even insurance practitioners that understand what the law says, kicking against the well-intentioned action taken by the regulatory body?”

However, proffering a solution to the incessant infractions that are being perpetrated by practitioners in the industry, an Insurance analyst, Mr Muftau Oyegunle, on Sunday advised the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) to reduce licence renewal requirements for insurance brokers. Oyegunle who made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, urged the commission to consider two to three years documentation requirements for brokers. He said the call became necessary as brokers had been complaining of high renewal fees and huge volume of documentation required by NAICOM. “Brokers have always complained about the volume of documentation to NAICOM”. Oyegunle, who is the Managing Director of LAKEG Insurance Consultants, said that reduction would ease documentation and other challenges facing brokers. According to him, “The renewal fees to the Nigerian Council of Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) and NAICOM is much; most practitioners are stressing themselves to pay this money.” Mr. Debo Adejumo, an insurance agent says there is no need for players and regulators in the industry to always be in disagreements. He said the practitioners should always ensure that their books and activities are in order while the regulators should always ensure that the regulatory steps they take at any point in time are within the context of the extant laws. He said the need for amity in the industry is indispensable, particularly at this time that the rate of insurance penetration is rated to be very low. He said the industry would never grow as long as both the practitioners and regulators are interacting under the atmosphere of mutual suspicion and bickering. Sharing the same view with Mr. Igbinoba are members of the insuring public who are not necessarily not insurance experts. Mr. Albert Oluwayomi, a property developer reasoned that if it is NAICOM is charged by the law to regulate the industry that there is nothing wrong for it to exercise the power vested in it whenever it is deemed appropriate as it was done in the case of the brokers. Mr. Osborne Anyanwu, a construction worker, said NAICOM should be allowed to play its role, and ask, “Is it not the same people that are blaming NAICOM that are always complaining that there are a lot of anomalies in the insurance sector?” He adds, why are they now crying they have been blessed with a regulator that is poised to engender sanity in the system?”

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Money

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Adopting risk mgt strategies for financial system stability Analysts and operators say effective risk management is capable of tackling emerging risk issues and help maintain resilient and wellfunctioning financial system.UDO ONYEKA reports.

he reform in the banking industry and entire financial sector aimed at introducing adequate supervision by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to enable financial institutions in the country imbibe the culture of good corporate governance. However for banks and other financial institutions to play by the rule of the game there is the need to develop internal control that test every action to be taken in the organisation and that is risk management. As the world is changing so do business environment, therefore risk management stake should be very high considering new channels and high sophisticated ICT facilities available for electronic banking. Experts and operators agree that as the industry continues to evolve so do risks, hence the need for effective risk management. Many analysts believe that weak management practices and corporate governance lapses on the part of both financial institutions and regulators is responsible to near collapse of the financial sector in 2008 and therefore urged for a continues self assessment by the operators themselves on their adherence to good corporate governance. According to the analysts financial markets in the world over have undergone far reaching changes in the last decade, spurred by deregulation and liberalisation as well as rapid developments in communication and internet technologies. They said banks operating I the country before the ongoing reforms have however not paid enough attention to the potential risks and to evolve mechanisms and systems to control and manage them in line with the global standards and procedures. According to President, Nigeria Stock Exchange, NSE, Aigboje AigImoukhede who spoke at an investors’ forum recently in Lagos said that if the situation that presented itself in 2008 when banks were falling over each other to do business with oil and gas presents itself again, that only very few banks may be willing to response. Imoukhede who said banks have learnt their lessons revealed that banks now pay more attention to risk management. “Some lessons are learned through pains and I believe we have all learned that sound risk management is the secret of sustainable banking business,” he said. Senior Resident Representative, International Monetary Fund,IMF, Mr Scott Rogers had said that the core business of a bank is to manage risk and provide a return to shareholders in line with the accepted risk profile, “ adding that the credit crisis and ensu-

Emefiele

Imoukhede

Some lessons are learned through pains and I believe we have all learned that sound risk management is the secret of sustainable banking business ing global recession seem to indicate that the banking sector has failed to tend to its core business. “If the banks had attended to risk management, then there would not have been the flood on the U.S. market of cheap short-term interest rate mortgages that led to the so-called housing bubble and the ultimate wave of personal bankruptcies and home foreclosures”. Rogers also said that the framework for risk management in a bank is fundamentally no different today than it was prior to the credit crunch and recession. He also believes a return to managing risks—not ignoring them or believing they can be passed off—is the cure for the ailment that has hit the economy so hard. Managing Director, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, Mr Segun Agbaje said if a bank is serious about risk management, then it will be serious from the top to down. “Leadership will espouse a culture of responsible risk management through its behaviours and through the systems and programs it puts into place. In the run up to the financial crisis, organisations talked about good risk management; however, not all in leadership positions espoused effective risk management, which is evident in the dismal failures in the financial sector during the economic recession. A risk-management culture can be embedded in an organisation through training, communications and incentives.”

A Lagos based financial analyst Dr Eric Ekeh said risk is inherent in all business and financial activities. He revealed that banks more than ever before are paying attention to risk management,” it is easily seen in the way financial institutions do their businesses these days”. He noted that the greater the risk associated with an activity the greater potential to generate a high return and attributed high interest rate especially at the retail subsector to the high risk involved. Even though taking risks can almost be said to be the business of banks and that a bank that is run on the principle of avoiding all risks or as many of them as possible will be a stagnant institution , analysts say banks that take them without recognising their extent or their existence will surely run into difficulty. According to analysts credit risk is the major category of risk of banks. It occurs whenever there is a possibility that the customer cannot meet contractual obligations to the bank in terms of delivery of documents or commodities where the bank bears the whole risk or the payment of principal, interest fees or commissions. According to Managing Director, Financial Derivatives Company, FDC, Limited said risk management is the process of identifying, measuring, monitoring and evaluating business activities in an organisation such as a bank. He said it should be the bedrock of internal control in banks.

Agbaje

Analysts have attributed the huge banks earnings in spite of challenges in the environment and stringent regulation to the reform in banking sector and effective supervision which brought risk management and good corporate governance to the fore. For instance the cumulative pre-tax earnings for Nigerian banks is in the neighbourhood of hit N600bn for 2012. The top eleven Nigerian banks, ranked by capital, as at September 2012, had a total profit before tax of N406bn in the first nine months of 2012, with N312bn or 77 percent of the profits made by the top five banks. This is according to data from the Nigerian banking outlook 2013 report. These earnings figures have continued to increase in 2014 and 2015, notwithstanding the hash and unfriendly business condition in the country. CBN, Governor, Godwin Emefiele said that risk managers have the responsibility to put in place measures to forestall a reoccurrence of issues that led to the crisis in the financial sector. He maintained that the objective of the CBN was to build a stable financial system. According to him, a sound financial system can only be achieved when substantial and fundamental economic reforms are implemented and sustained. He explained the apex bank would continue to enhance the quality of banks, establishing financial stability and ensuring that the financial sector contributes to the growth of the real sector. “We have learned from the past and would avert the dangers of the past by doing the right and insisting that all do what is right. We should also try to be vigilant risk managers ahead of any situation, so as to guide our institutions, our financial sector and economy as a whole,” he said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Capital Market

We have valuation issues with acquired assets – Kuru The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON, Ahmed Kuru, spoke with journalists recently on the initiatives being undertaken by the Corporation to dispose assets taken over from collapsed banks, amongst other issues relating to the fulfillment of its mandate. JOHNSON OKANLAWON captures his views. Excerpts: Do you have any difficulty in disposing some of your assets and which ones are have been challenging for you to dispose? Some of our assets are specialized assets, some are also at the time we took them the valuations were very high, now because of the state of the economy, there are valuation issues. On marina there are two rigs, those are our rigs, we took them at a very exorbitant rate at that time. That asset is not something you can hawk on the street unfortunately. It is a specialized asset. Nobody today has N100 billion to come and buy that assets. Number two, whoever will come to you, will come with cash flow projections, which means also it also a gambling situation. If you give it to me five years down the line I should be able to pay back. To dispose at that rate is a big challenge. We have quite a number of tank farms in Apapa. The time when those farms were set up, it was quite expensive, some of them valuation were very high. But, of them devalued and their devaluation is slated to 30 per cent of what we already valued. For AMCON that posed a challenge because we are dealing with the public. Something was taken at N10, today you call a valued and when they value it it is N3 that provides a gap and a challenge. So disposing those assets have become a big challenge. We have quite a lot of land at Lekki area and to dispose those lands are a big challenge. We have quite a lot of assets that are difficult to dispose and also to dispose them at a price that is good is also another challenge. Keystone Bank was supposed to have been sold according to the initial timetable, has the timetable been changed or suspended? There was a timetable for the sale of Keystone last year, to be sold this year 2015 and it was supposed to be part of our funding plan but unfortunately because of the change in management, board we have not been able to follow through with the timetable. So definitely we are coming up with a new timetable. How much does AMCON have in the sinking fund and how much has been realized through the sale of the assets? For this year we should be able to substantially achieve our target. We might not be able to achieve what we have set out to achieve because the banking sinking fund assumed that the industry will be growing at 20 per cent year on year. Now based on what we have at hand, the industry is growing less than 12 per cent so automatically the expectation from there is already impaired. So whatever we projected from that side may be like 55 per cent. On the company side also, we estimated that we will be able to sell quite a lot of our assets, but unfortunately with what is happening in the economy, with the liquidity situation, we have not been able to dispose our assets as fast as we hoped. We used to do private bidding in disposing of our assets but now we do open competitive bidding. The response is very very disappointing because of what is happening in the economy. If I call a valuer and they value the assets, that is what I will use in pricing the asset, on the bid opening day, those who want to buy will want to buy at a premium while we will want to maximize our returns. So that poses a lot of challenge for us in disposing our assets. Like I said we are changing our strategy and any assets that will be sold in AMCON now must be advertised. Have you had any issues in publishing the names of

Kuru

On the company side also, we estimated that we will be able to sell

quite a lot of our assets, but unfortunately with what is happening in

the economy, with the

liquidity situation, we have not been able to dispose our assets as fast as we hoped debtors as some banks have run into problems regarding this? Some banks have problems of publishing names but I also tell you that the response is very huge. Quite lot of people rushed to the banks, if not the list would’ve been longer than what you saw. The list of those you have seen are the list of chronic debtors. Those you never imagined rushed to the banks asking of how to restructure their loans because no responsible Nigerian wants to see his name on pages of Newspapers as a debtor. Some of the problems they are having is because they have not been able to clean out their record to ensure that the proper names are published. So sometimes people take them to court based on the names published. However, it might not the best way but it is an effective way of recovering debts. You can’t take someone’s money without paying. Nobody is expecting you to pay N10 billion today but what people are saying is come to us and tell us how you want to pay. While it may not be the best way, those who who agreed to do it have seen some wisdom in it and most responsible people have gone to the financial institutions to reach an agreement. What has AMCON done in respect of manufacturing companies whose firms have closed due to bad debts?

AMCON’s primary responsibility is not to take over businesses but to support businesses, because when AMCON was created one of the objectives was how to bring financial stability. If you see AMCON taking over any business, that means that there is a problem in that business, not in terms of loan repayment but in terms of operations. You see a lot of companies, they will be operating at a loss and you can’t continue to operate at a loss when you have an obligation to fulfill. If a company continues like that, it will be shut. But we don’t want to close businesses because when we do, the ability to recoup the loans is slim. Those that feel deeply about their business, we try to support them, but they must be open for us to support them. AMCON’s mandate is not to close any business, hardly you see AMCON close any business that is operating like a normal business. In fact, AMCON goes and put money to re-engineer business performance. Many companies in the oil and gas industry, in manufacturing are operating with the support of AMCON. The issue is that you cannot not continue to pump money into something you know will never stand to yield profit. AMCON is there to support businesses, but if any business doesn’t worth it, we will do the right thing. The purpose is to ensure that tax payers money doesn’t go down. Has there been any political interference in the decisions of AMCON such as the one witnessed with Capital Oil? I was not around when the whole thing happened, so I remain calm about that. I can comfortably tell you that for us we don’t have any political interference. Nobody needs to tell you that with the president’s presence there is no interference. So if you are a company and you are with AMCON’s money and you are sitting in your office with the strategy of political intervention, the only interference you have is to come and talk to us as the management of AMCON so that we will interfere and find solution to the problem.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

L-R: Wife of Edo State governor, Mrs Lara Oshiomohole; Anambra State governor, Willie Obiano; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Babachir David Lawal; Bishop of Issele-Uku Dioceses, Most Rev’d Michael Elue; Mrs Elizabeth Kachikwu; Edo State governor, Adams Oshiomhole, and Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, at a thanksgiving service on the appointment of Dr. Kachikwu as minister, at the All Saints Catholic Church, Onicha-Ugbo, Delta on Sunday.

Be more environment conscious, U.S envoy urges C’River citizens

Richard Ndoma CALABAR

he United States Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, has urged the people of Cross River State to be more environment conscious, by taking up the challenge to preserve the forests, stop poaching and wildlife trafficking, so as to protect the world for future generations. Entwistle made the call during a visit to the Calabar American Corner, for a programme on wildlife conservation, held recently at the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Calabar. The US representative maintained that the main objective for his visit was to learn more about the plans put in place by the state and the federal government to protect one of the oldest rainforest in Africa, which has been identified as a global biodiversity hotspot. He said that Cross River State’s forests are home to a number of critically endangered species including pangolins, forest elephants, Cross River gorilla, Chimpanzee and drill monkeys, adding that, the U.S. had plans to explore ways to help the state government

and NGO’s to further promote conservation and stop the illicit trade in wildlife, with collaboration from government officials, park rangers and NGO’s like Wildlife Conservation Society and Pandrilus, to help strengthen the bilateral relationship. The U.S. ambassador averred that limited enforcement of related laws had allowed for a boost in wildlife trafficking from ivory, pangolin scales, bush meat to live animal trade. He added that Nigeria had become a growing hub for traffickers and poachers who sourcde and paseds wildlife products through Nigeria to other destinations around the globe. He called on the government to consider whether the penalties for wildlife trafficking were sufficiently severe, to deter others. James Entwistle averred that authority of the U.S. recognises the importance and urgency of combating wildlife trafficking and was committed to taking positive measures to address the global challenges, stressing that the U.S. had pledged to enact nearly complete ban on ivory imports and exports. He said it had also taken significant and timely steps to halt the domestic commercial trade

of ivory. “As part of these efforts, the U.S. hopes to expand cooperation in joint training, technical exchanges, information sharing and public education on promoting conservation, while combating poaching and wildlife trafficking in Nigeria,” he said. Entwistle maintained that with forest acting as carbon ‘sinks’, it was more important than ever for Nigeria and Cross River State to preserve what accounts for fifty per cent of the nation’s remaining forest cover. He called on communities with the forests to stand in the gap, where conservation is concerned and refuse to do business with wildlife profiteers and illegal loggers and report forest poachers. He added that communities that respectfully shared the forest with wildlife showed reverence for nature and also had a responsibility to protect and defend the wildlife and not just leave it to the government to solve. He applauded the state’s participation in the United Nations Collaborative Programme on Reducing Emmissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries, and urged Nigeria to do more

to prevent deforestation and encourage communities and corporations to preserve the forest with eco-friendly products. He noted that it was important to take advantage of new, affordable technologies, adding that, with firm logging enforcement, sustainable farming and eco-friendly fuels, Cross River’s forests could be saved. Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for ICT, Chief Offu Aya, stated that it was in pursuant of the Climate Change policy of the state government that the governor upgraded the erstwhile Department of ICT to a Ministry for effective information management and database coordination. He called for better collaboration through the Calabar American Corner for effective project implementation through efficient ICT structure, assistance in staff training and infrastructural development potential. The commissioner pointed out that the ICT ministry, if adequately supported, had the potential to reduce unemployment in the state. He called on investors to key into the governor’s initiative to help launch the ministry to an international level.

Oil spillage: Edo Assembly seeks NNPC compensation, clean-up

he Edo House of Assembly on Monday urged the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to compensate victims of oil spillage in Igiode community in Etsako East local government area. Mr. Kingsley Ugabi (APC Etsako East), who moved the motion under matters of urgent public importance during plenary on Monday in Benin, said that the oil spillage had caused pollution to farmlands. According to Ugabi, the river which serves as the only source of water supply to the community is also polluted. He, therefore, urged NNPC to clean up the affected area and send its technical team to replace ruptured pipelines. The House unanimously adopted the motion.

Capital Market

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Stock exchange daily equities summary Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015

Equities as at December 21, 2015

Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041

Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015 Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041

Daily Summary (Bonds) No Debt Trading Activity

1st Tier Securities Sector

Company name

1st Tier Securities

Daily Summary (Equities)

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

AGRICULTURE Crop Production OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC. Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals

Symbol OKOMUOIL PRESCO

No. of Deals 14 6 20

Current Price 27.21 32.50

Quantity Traded 77,420 14,733 92,153

Value Traded 2,121,617.26 508,694.76 2,630,312.02

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 7 7

Current Price 1.37

Quantity Traded 172,000 172,000

Value Traded 237,642.00 237,642.00

264,153

2,867,954.02

Quantity Traded 50,500 5,500 500 5,063,324 684,318 5,804,142

Value Traded 30,550.00 4,840.00 1,980.00 7,190,476.30 12,893,490.06 20,121,336.36

AGRICULTURE Totals

Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015 CONGLOMERATES Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041 Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. JOHN HOLT PLC. S C O A NIG. PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY Diversified Industries Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE CONGLOMERATES Totals Building Construction ARBICO PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Building Construction Totals

Symbol AGLEVENT JOHNHOLT SCOA Daily Summary TRANSCORP UACN

No. of Deals 4 3 2 (Equities) 70 79 158 158 No. of Deals 1 1

Symbol ARBICO

Current Price 0.62 0.92 4.16 1.45 18.75

Current Price 5.04

5,804,142 Quantity Traded 47 Page 47

No. of Deals 9 9

Current Price 41.68

Quantity Traded 24,014 24,014

Value Traded 1,045,899.65 1,045,899.65

Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 6.03

Quantity Traded 14,008 14,008

Value Traded 87,802.56 87,802.56

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) UPDC REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Totals

Symbol UPDCREIT

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 10.00

Quantity Traded 2,000 2,000

Value Traded 20,000.00 20,000.00

40,069

1,153,939.09

Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015

Printed CONSTRUCTION/REAL 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041ESTATE Totals CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION BREW. PLC. GUINNESS NIG PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTYPLC. INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Food Products DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC TIGER BRANDED CONSUMER GOODS PLC UNION DICON SALT PLC. Food Products Totals Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals

Symbol

Symbol DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON TIGERBRANDS UNIONDICON

No. of Deals 17 40 24 28 55 1 165

Current Price 6.03 19.95 1.98 6.81 1.24 11.84

Quantity Traded 178,861 358,841 1,292,700 267,186 2,919,542 90 5,017,220

Value Traded 1,078,683.92 7,189,727.79 2,531,451.67 1,839,777.02 3,657,425.16 1,012.50 16,298,078.06

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 15 42 57

Current Price 18.05 790.00

Quantity Traded 61,132 741,419 802,551

Value Traded 1,104,050.66 586,148,867.86 587,252,918.52

Symbol VITAFOAM VONO

No. of Deals 12 20 32 (Equities)

Current Price 4.70 0.66

Quantity Traded 42,926 2,151,100 2,194,026

Value Traded 196,132.73 1,479,959.00 1,676,091.73

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

No. of Deals 4 28

Current Price 28.98 45.50

Quantity Traded 21,487 189,113

Value Traded 591,751.98 8,175,792.63

Symbol

No. of Deals 32

Current Price

Quantity Traded Page 210,600

Value Traded 12 3 of 8,767,544.61

Symbol 7UP

Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015 Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041 Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. VONO PRODUCTS PLC. Household Durables Totals

Personal/Household Products Activity Board PLC. EQTY P ZSummary CUSSONSon NIGERIA UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. CONSUMER GOODS Personal/Household Products Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Personal/Household Products Totals

Daily Summary

CONSUMER GOODS Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015 FIDELITY BANK PLC Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041 GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC BANK on PLC. ActivityWEMA Summary Board EQTY Banking Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES InsuranceCarriers, Carriers, Brokers Brokers and and Services Services Insurance

AIICO INSURANCE PLC. EQUITY ASSURANCE PLC. CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC LAW UNION AND ROCK INS. PLC. AXAMANSARD INSURANCE PLC N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. Published by NIGER The Nigerian Stock Exchange INSURANCE CO. PLC.© REGENCY ALLIANCE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC STANDARD TRUST ASSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015 Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041 Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UNITED CAPITAL PLC OtherSummary Financial Institutions Totals Activity on Board EQTY FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Medical Supplies MORISON INDUSTRIES PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Medical Supplies Totals Pharmaceuticals EVANS MEDICAL PLC. FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC PHARMA-DEKO PLC. Pharmaceuticals Totals

454

Symbol ACCESS DIAMONDBNK ETI FIDELITYBK GUARANTY SKYEBANK STERLNBANK UBA Daily Summary UBN UNITYBNK WEMABANK

Symbol Symbol AIICO EQUITYASUR HMARKINS LAWUNION MANSARD NEM NIGERINS REGALINS STACO

Symbol NPFMCRFBK

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FCMB Daily Summary STANBIC UCAP

Processing Systems E-TRANZACT INTERNATIONAL PLC Processing Systems Totals ICT Totals

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

10,283,955

737,891,944.39

Value Traded 102,047,165.17 7,716,642.42 41,872,865.97 714,403.50 615,765,992.72 10,030,740.60 639,063.79 141,144,389.35 7,939,503.26 602,134.01 4,584,113.42 933,057,014.21

No. of Deals 95 45 28 17 184 53 15 138 (Equities) 30 13 14 632

Current Price 4.60 2.44 16.70 1.39 20.00 1.26 1.85 3.52 5.98 0.79 0.90

Quantity Traded 22,179,935 3,185,186 2,618,316 515,050 32,340,979 7,973,060 357,109 38,206,269 1,446,489 763,119 5,210,597 114,796,109

No. of Deals 71 1 1 2 5 13 5 1 1 100

Current Price 0.91 0.50 0.50 0.73 2.70 0.68 0.50 0.50 0.50

Quantity Traded 480,903 3,000 170 304,414 200,000 2,138,700 Page 5,028,945

No. of Deals 2 2 No. of Deals 20 5 50 (Equities) 17 45 137

3,000 500 8,159,632

1,500.00 250.00 5,136,312.09

Current Price 1.00

Quantity Traded 20,000 20,000

Value Traded 19,000.00 19,000.00

Current Price 2.49 4.01 1.78 15.00 1.24

Quantity Traded 207,624 130,575 7,467,913 79,085 715,145 8,600,342

Value Traded 504,610.35 525,906.89 13,288,564.17 1,180,000.30 895,540.84 16,394,622.55

131,576,083

954,606,948.85

871

Current Price 0.50 2.55 35.00 0.96 0.89 2.25

Quantity Traded 45,000 350,000 30,151 1,500 7,000 250 433,901

Value Traded 22,500.00 894,898.70 1,006,076.90 1,500.00 5,950.00 565.00 1,931,490.60

434,001

1,931,663.60

Symbol ETRANZACT

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 2.92

Quantity Traded 60,000 60,000

Value Traded 175,200.00 175,200.00

61,640

Page

Packaging/Containers

Symbol BETAGLAS WAGLASS

No. of Deals 3 1 4

Current Price 50.93 0.63

Quantity Traded 10,447 1,495 11,942

Value Traded 505,678.45 897.00 506,575.45

4,985,941

152,889,573.26

OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment and Services Activity Summary Board EQTY JAPAUL OIL &on MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals OIL ANDasGAS Daily Summary of 21/12/2015 Integrated Oil and Gas Services Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041 OANDO PLC Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol JAPAULOIL

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 6,000 6,000

Value Traded 3,000.00 3,000.00

Symbol OANDO

No. of Deals 145 145

Current Price 5.88

Quantity Traded 2,461,412 Page 2,461,412

Value Traded 14,485,242.33 12 7 of 14,485,242.33

Quantity Traded 4,063 69,592 53,678 765,738

Value Traded 100,518.62 117,963.74 12,958,729.20 91,895,306.82

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Daily Summary (Equities) CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL

26.04 1.74 254.10 120.00

Symbol MRS TOTAL

No. of Deals 1 10 63

Current Price 49.66 145.00

Quantity Traded 400 1,962 895,433

Value Traded 18,872.00 284,831.53 105,376,221.91

Exploration and Production SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Exploration and Production Totals

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 5 5

Current Price 203.00

Quantity Traded 1,223 1,223

Value Traded 256,297.75 256,297.75

3,364,068

120,120,761.99

OIL AND GAS Totals SERVICES Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals Employment Solutions C &as I LEASING PLC. Daily Summary of 21/12/2015 Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041 Employment Solutions Totals © Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange

AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals Support and Logistics CAVERTON SUPPORT GRP PLC Activity SummaryOFFSHORE on Board EQTY Support and Logistics Totals SERVICES SERVICES Totals Printing/Publishing LEARN AFRICA PLC Printing/Publishing EQTY Board Totals Totals

Support and Logistics CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC Support and Logistics Totals

214

Symbol REDSTAREX

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 4.35

Quantity Traded 500 500

Value Traded 2,190.00 2,190.00

Symbol CILEASING

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 3,000 3,000 Page

Value Traded 1,500.00 1,500.00 12 8 of

Symbol CAPHOTEL

No. of Deals 1 4 5

Current Price 3.87 3.13

Quantity Traded 2,000 46,550 48,550

Value Traded 7,740.00 133,124.00 140,864.00

Symbol ACADEMY

No. of Deals 2

Current Price 0.55

Quantity Traded 2,606

Value Traded 1,433.30

Symbol LEARNAFRCA

No. of Deals 3 5

Current Price 0.77

Quantity Traded Page 12,910 15,516

12 9Value Traded of 9,553.40 10,986.70

Symbol INTERLINK

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 4.21

Quantity Traded 300 300

Value Traded 1,200.00 1,200.00

Symbol AIRSERVICE NAHCO

No. of Deals 6 17 23

Current Price 1.83 3.44

Quantity Traded 103,250 686,393 789,643

Value Traded 189,426.00 2,363,869.37 2,553,295.37

Symbol CAVERTON

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 2.47

Quantity Traded 2,550 2,550

Value Traded 5,992.50 5,992.50

Symbol LEARNAFRCA

38 No. of Deals 3 1,8695

Current Price 0.77

Quantity860,059 Traded 12,910 15,516 157,674,111

2,716,028.57 Value Traded 9,553.40 10,986.70 1,994,477,990.53

Symbol INTERLINK

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 4.21

Quantity Traded 300 300

Value Traded 1,200.00 1,200.00

Symbol AIRSERVICE NAHCO

No. of Deals 6 17 23

Current Price 1.83 3.44

Quantity Traded 103,250 686,393 Page 789,643

Symbol CAVERTON

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 2.47

Quantity Traded 2,550 2,550

Value Traded 5,992.50 5,992.50

860,059

2,716,028.57

157,674,111

1,994,477,990.53

Quantity Traded 8,693,144 8,693,144

Value Traded 120,460,034.52 120,460,034.52

IKEJAHOTEL Daily Summary (Equities)

Daily Summary (Equities)

SERVICES Totals Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015 Summary on Board PREMIUM Printed Activity 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041

EQTY Board Totals

1,869

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Banking Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015 ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041 Banking Totals

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals Other Financial Institutions INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals FBN HOLDINGS PLC INDUSTRIAL GOODS Other Financial Institutions Totals PREMIUM Totals BuildingBoard Materials DANGOTE CEMENT PLC FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals Equity Activity Totals Totals Building Materials INDUSTRIAL GOODS INDUSTRIAL Building GOODS MaterialsTotals DANGOTE CEMENT PLC Building Materials Totals PREMIUM Board Totals Exchange Traded Fund

Equity Activity Totals

Symbol ZENITHBANK Daily Summary

No. of Deals 201 (Equities) 201

Symbol

Name LOTUS HALAL EQUITY ETF

Exchange Traded Fund Published Exchange by The Nigerian Stock Exchange Traded Fund © Name

Name STANBIC IBTC ETF 30 LOTUS HALAL EQUITY VETIVA BANKING ETF ETF VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Exchange Traded Fund Totals

Current Price 13.83

Symbol ZENITHBANK

Symbol Symbol Symbol FBNH ZENITHBANK DANGCEM Symbol FBNH Symbol DANGCEM

Symbol

Value Traded 134,396,148.92 134,396,148.92 10 of 12 Value Traded 120,460,034.52 254,856,183.44 120,460,034.52

No. No.of ofDeals Deals Current CurrentPrice Price Quantity QuantityTraded Traded No. of Deals Current Price Quantity Traded 245 4.70 28,681,681 201 13.83 8,693,144 72 152.05 933,456 245 28,681,681 201 8,693,144 72 933,456

Value ValueTraded Traded Value Traded 134,396,148.92 120,460,034.52 143,003,332.95 134,396,148.92 120,460,034.52 143,003,332.95

446 37,374,825 No. of Deals Traded 72 Current Price Quantity 933,456 245 4.70 28,681,681 245 28,681,681 38,308,281 No. of Deals Traded 518 Current Price Quantity 72 152.05 933,456 446 37,374,825 2,387 195,982,392 72 933,456

254,856,183.44 Value Traded 143,003,332.95 134,396,148.92 134,396,148.92 Value Traded 397,859,516.39 143,003,332.95 254,856,183.44 2,392,337,506.92 143,003,332.95

72 No. of Deals 72 72 518

Current Price 152.05

Daily Summary (ETP) DANGCEM Symbol LOTUSHAL15

No. of Deals 72 2,387 1

Quantity933,456 Traded 933,456 933,456 38,308,281

Current Price 9.08

2,387

Quantity Traded Value Traded 933,456 143,003,332.95 5 2,392,337,506.92 45.40

195,982,392

Symbol

No. of Deals 1

Symbol Symbol STANBICETF30 LOTUSHAL15 VETBANK

No. of Deals Current Price No. of Deals Price 2 Current 82.66 9.08 11 2.68 1 12.18 5

Daily Summary (ETP) LOTUSHAL15 Daily Summary (ETP)

Current Price 9.08

143,003,332.95 Value Traded 143,003,332.95 143,003,332.95 397,859,516.39

195,982,392

Page 38,308,281

518

Daily Summary (ETP)

VETGRIF30

Value Traded 189,426.00 2,363,869.37 12 10 of 2,553,295.37

No. of Deals Current Price Quantity Traded 245 4.70 28,681,681 245 28,681,681 No. of Deals Current Price Quantity TradedPage 201 13.83 8,693,144 446 37,374,825 201 8,693,144

FBNH Daily Summary (Equities)

Exchange Traded Fund

3 10 24 15

Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals

Name INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals EquityLOTUS Activity Totals HALAL EQUITY ETF Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015 Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Totals PrintedPREMIUM 21/12/2015 Board 14:32:41.041

177,840.40

Value Traded 800.00 800.00

FBN HOLDINGS PLC FINANCIAL SERVICES Other Financial Institutions Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Banking ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Activity Summary on Board FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals PREMIUM Banking Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRIAL GOODS Other Financial Institutions Banking Building Materials FBN HOLDINGS PLC PLC BANK PLC ZENITH INTERNATIONAL DANGOTE CEMENT Other Financial Banking TotalsInstitutions Building Materials Totals Totals

No. of Deals 3 3 8 1 2 1 18

Value Traded 2,640.40 2,640.40

Quantity Traded 500 500

Activity Summary Board PREMIUM Other Financialon Institutions

Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER NEIMETH PHARMDEKO

Quantity Traded 1,640 1,640

Current Price 1.63

Transport-Related Services AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Published by Theas Nigerian Stock Exchange © Daily Summary of 21/12/2015 Transport-Related Services Totals Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041

Value Traded 173.00 5 of 173.00 12

Current Price 1.69

No. of Deals 1 1

Specialty INTERLINKED TECHNOLOGIES PLC Specialty Totals

Quantity Traded 100 Page 100

No. of Deals 2 2

Symbol CUTIX

Specialty INTERLINKED TECHNOLOGIES PLC Specialty Totals Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015 Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041 Transport-Related Services

Current Price 1.73

Symbol TRIPPLEG

Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals

ACADEMY PRESS PLC. SERVICES Printing/Publishing Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © LEARN AFRICA PLC Printing/Publishing Totals

No. of Deals 2 2

Value Traded 112,391,023.00 23,800.00 336,493.25 60,738.91 1,001.65 97,185.00 39,471,956.00 152,382,197.81

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Printing/Publishing

Value Traded 437,935.73 1,500.00 85.00 209,501.52 526,500.00 1,444,567.34 12 4 2,514,472.50 of

Value of Shares(N)

Quantity Traded 4,495,732 2,480 9,411 7,662 1,495 28,500 428,219 4,973,499

Hotels/Lodging CAPITAL HOTEL PLC IKEJA HOTEL PLC Hotels/Lodging Totals

Symbol MORISON

HEALTHCARE Totals ICT IT Services TRIPPLE GEE AND COMPANY PLC. IT Services Totals

Current Price 182.00

Value Traded 3,423,570.20 46,347,637.95 243,166.80 72,764,418.82 122,778,793.77 Value Traded 1,118,517.70 1,118,517.70 2 of 12

Quantity Traded

Current Price 25.00 10.00 37.60 7.92 0.70 3.58 92.25

Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL AND GASOIL NIG PLC.

Current Price 3.32 123.00 15.98 116.00

GUINNESS INTBREW NB

Quantity Traded 1,031,110 376,911 15,680 629,710 2,053,411 Quantity Traded 6,147 6,147 Page

Quotation(N) No. of Deals 14 4 3 6 1 2 34 64

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

No. of Deals 12 61 2 88 163 No. of Deals 5 5

Daily Summary (Equities) CHAMPION

No Of Deals Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER CAP CCNN DNMEYER PORTPAINT WAPCO

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals

20,121,336.36 Value Traded 236.88 12 of 236.88

Symbol JBERGER

Company name

BETA GLASS CO PLC. Daily Summary as of 21/12/2015 W A GLASS IND. PLC. Printed 21/12/2015 14:32:41.041 Packaging/Containers Totals

Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Sector

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC DN MEYER PLC. PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Daily Summary (Equities)

Quantity Traded 5 Page Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 350 55 5 Page 365

397,859,516.39

2,392,337,506.92 Value Traded 45.40 11 of 12 Value Traded Value Traded 28,931.00 45.40 13.40 11

60.90 12 of 29,050.70

ETF Board Totals

365

29,050.70

ETP Activity Totals

365

29,050.70

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

y for 16 years –Umeh excited because since that robbery was done, they were bewildered. You know, how such a thing could still happen at this time in Nigeria where somebody they did not vote for will so brazenly, with machine guns and armoured tanks, ferry things away and impose on them and they had nothing to do. I am somebody who is an unrepentant believer in the use of the machinery of judiciary to pursue justice. When that happened, because I have not been used to inciting people to take to the streets to demonstrate, people thought that I had given up. But quietly, I continued doing what I know how best to do and we thank God that they have been revived now. If you go to Anambra now, particularly in my senatorial zone Anambra Central where the election was nullified, that senatorial zone is the strongest senatorial zone in Nigeria. Any place, you go to engage the strength of the people in a senatorial zone, Anambra Central is the centre point of politics in Anambra State. So, it was keenly contested. It was hotly contested. There were people of influence in that senatorial zone and when this thing (electoral fraud) happened, the place went silent and now, they are celebrating that they now have another opportunity to express their will. So, I am ready, ever ready. APGA has always advocated the use of ballot box to elect leaders without manipulation. You know, APGA has gone through very strenuous trouble to enthrone democratic order in Anambra State and in Nigeria, by extension. All that we have done, we have done from the point of the underdog, to wrestle power from the super brats. We have not been used to bullying anybody. Instead, they have been bullying us. So, now that this election will be conducted under a very new template, we are very hopeful that the votes of the people will be what will be counted to declare somebody winner. There will be no godmother, there will be no godfather. There will be no presidential might, which has been the greatest source of political corruption in Nigeria; the use of presidential power to suppress the will of the people, to win elections and elements in the PDP have been culprits in this habit. Every time there is an election in Igboland, Federal apologists will return home to decimate the people and leave them desolate after every election. I think PDP that has been using that process, particularly in the South-Eastern Nigeria has fallen from the power. With the exit of PDP, what are your expectations in Igboland? With their exit, we look forward to a new type of election in Igboland, not just in this rerun election that will be coming up soon. But, I know that PDP is now like a fish out of water. You said this is a new template but we are aware that the rerun will include your former opponent, Chris Ngige who is now a Minister of the Federal Republic. Do you not envisage there could still be another Federal might because of the APC government at the centre? No, I don’t think so. APC came with a posturing of change in Nigeria. Before it became a consolidated party, the ACN and the other parties that merged to form the APC were in a vanguard of struggle with APGA against the ruling party, in terms of muscling the opposition and with opposition party now taking over the leadership of the country, I do not expect that no matter how they try it, that they want to muscle the electoral process. What is happening in Bayelsa now is a pointer to what is going on. Elections have taken place in seven local governments. PDP has won six local governments and those their victories have been declared for PDP. APC is the Federal Government. If it were to be the other way round, PDP being at the centre, they would have rigged the Bayelsa election. Without looking at anybody, you won’t see result sheets and they would have announced somebody winner.

So, the change we are talking about is already being experienced. APC has a moral burden, not to repeat what PDP did to opposition parties before they were unseated. You can see developments in Bayelsa. Sylva won only one local government and he is still hoping to win with one outstanding local government when he has lost six local governments out of eight. If it were to be the PDP regime, Sylva will not see any result sheet and they will declare any of their own winner and you go to Court. That has been their style. What PDP did to Nigeria in their sixteen years of rule was the greatest disservice to democracy. PDP promoted democratic banditry, electoral banditry in Nigeria. For quite some time, I have not joined the public commentary because I was in the process of pursuing my appeal and all that but when I saw PDP crying wolf in the television, I was laughing at them. There is something we say in our place, the cup with which you give somebody grain, will be the cup you will use to receive the grain when the table turns. So, PDP that was known for no due process at all in electoral process is now crying against the APC. So, they are hypocrites and as far as I am concerned, the PDP time has just ended. It is a political party that should be dismantled. They should be dismantled because if they had any serious commitment to democracy, Nigeria would have been a very strong democratic nation. But, through the use of police, army, it is a Federal operation all the time. Any place they decide, they will go there and ransack the place and then impose anybody on the people and go away. It is no longer possible, so they are now weeping. Yet, the APC has not been brutal like they (PDP) were. It is only here in South-East of Nigeria that date for election will be fixed and on the day of the election, you will not see anybody but in the evening, results will be announced. And no matter how you complain, nobody listens to you. The next thing you see is that they will be arranging people to come on solidarity visit to congratulate the winner and they will be dancing on an election that never took place. These were the sort of things we saw in Nigeria and they are now trying to say that APC did that, APC didn’t do that. They are just lucky and I am happy that the present government is taking the issue of corruption very seriously. PDP promoted corruption in Nigeria. They thought that it is going to continue that way. I mean, he that has committed no offence has no reason to be afraid of any probe. Look at the revelations coming out now, the way monies were shared and PDP should bury its head in shame. If not for the principle that people should be allowed to express their views and opinions, PDP should be banned from speaking. Nigerians don’t need to be hearing incoherent statements, coming from the PDP as an opposition party. They think they are making any impression on anybody. Nigerians hold them in great contempt for the way they desecrated this country and our democracy. So, if there is anybody that will talk to APC, it will certainly be a political party, other than the PDP. They need to go on probation.

Coalition petitions Buhari over alleged contract inflation Ezekiel Titus BAUCHI

auchi State Coalition Against Financial Crime and Injustice, BACAFCI has petitioned President Muhammadu Buhari alleging that Governor Mohammed Abubakar inflated contract sum and committed huge financial crime. The allegation was contained in an open letter addressed to the President, copy of which was made available to National Mirror in Bauchi yesterday. The letter which was signed by Abubakar Dogon Yaro Biri and Yakubu Alhaji Jibrin, President and Secretary of the coalition respectively alleged that contract for the supply of 2500 metric tones of granular Urea fertilizer, 36 units of Toyota land cruiser jeeps and the supply of 25 units Hilux double cabin vehicles were awarded to Westwood Motors Ltd in Abuja by the Bauchi state government. It said that based on checks from the supply companies, “there is an inflation of N5,715,000 and N112,500,000 arising from lack of observing procurement act and due process in line with APC rhetoric”. The coalition stand the ground that contract always observe advertisement, bidding, tenders approval, debrief bid to losers on request among other items in line with procurement process “but to our dismay Abubakar did not toe this line with respect to APC promise”. “Similarly, the government committed some financial crime during 2015 hajj operation for not itemizing the funds allocated

For how long? PDP needs to go on probation in Nigeria for about 12 years or more, so that we see if we can repair the damage they have done to our national psyche, both the economy, the polity, our democracy and our Rule of law. Everything. So, what if Ngige decides to run? As to whether Ngige will run for the election, Ngige is my brother, he is my friend. He is now a Minister of the Federal Republic. I don’t think he needs to gamble, to leave what he is holding now to go for the unknown. You know, it is only within 90 days. If he leaves his ministerial appointment and comes to pursue senatorial seat, it may be late for him when he is going back to go and ask for his seat back at the Federal cabinet

Gov. Abubakar

for expenditures especially number of Bauchi state pilgrims including staff and their specific benefits”, the coalition said. It laments that government was silent on the estacodes enjoyed by the unnumbered persons who served as the state delegation to Saudi Arabia but alleged that huge resources were allocated illegally. On security, the petition asked the government to make it clear which security agency benefited money based on the signed document of PS/SS for the SSG dated 21/6/ 2015 saying there is no reason as to why such huge amount is being expended on the government house monthly. The coalition alleges that arbitrary withdrawal of funds for operation of Bauchi government house was put at N50 million in June, while subsequent months it was reviewed to N80 million. The coalition however decried threats on their members’ lives through inundated calls by the government foot soldiers when it earlier petitioned Bauchi state House of Assembly on 2nd December, 2015, urging it to investigate the government of financial crimes even when it fails to address the issues in question. It expressed dismay that some APC machinations in the state are involved in covering the government misdeeds instead of joining Buhari in fighting corruption and brand the coalition members as evil perpetrators. “ As persons and group who are out for zero tolerance for corruption, we have resolve not to relent to help and support the fight against corruption”, the coalition said.

Politics

Doosuur Iwambe ABUJA

he Independent National Electoral Commissions, INEC told the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja yesterday that it validly approved the sponsorship of Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku to contest for the April 11 governorship election. INEC which was represented by its counsel, Joseph Daudu (SAN) told the court to set aside the judgment of the Tribunal and declare Ishaku as the validly elected governor of the state. The court has however reserved judgment in the three appeals and cross appeal that emanated from the judgment of the Taraba State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal which sat in Abuja as a result of security concerns in the North Eastern region of the country. The Tribunal had, in its

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Taraba election: INEC approves Ishaku’s nomination, court told judgment sacked the governor of the state, Mr. Ishaku of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP on the ground that he was not sponsored by any political party as required by law. The unanimous judgment of the Musa Danladi Abubakar- led Tribunal, in a petition filed by the All Progressives Congress, APC and its governorship candidate, Hajiya Aisha Jumai Alhassan held that the purported nomination of the sacked governor by PDP breached Section 85 of the Electoral Act 2010 and ordered the governor to vacate office. Ishaku who was dissatisfied with the judgment filed an appeal, asking the appel-

late court to set aside the judgment of the Tribunal which dismissed him from office and handed the governorship to his opponent, Aisha Jummai Alhassan. When the matter came up yesterday, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN) representing Governor Ishaku in his appeal urged the court to set aside the judgment of the Tribunal, adding also that the appeal ought not to have come up because it was not attached with any valid witness statement. Agabi said there is nothing to show on the deposition of the witnesses that any fee was paid and not a single of the deposition was signed by the Commissioner for oath.

According to him, “When a petitioner alleges that an election was marred by irregularities and he goes ahead to claim victory, that petition ought to have been dismissed”. He said a star witness of the petitioner admitted before the Tribunal that the appellant (Ishaku) was sponsored by his party, PDP and prayed the court to allow the appeal and set aside the judgment of the Tribunal. Counsel to Aisha Alhassan and her party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, Abiodun Owonikoko ( SAN) submitted that there was no primary election by the PDP to elect the appellant as its candidate in the

election, a submission, he said was affirmed by the Tribunal and urged the court to uphold the judgment of the Tribunal. Replying on point of law, Chief Agabi said there was evidence that there was a primary election by the PDP which produced Governor Ishaku as its governorship candidate in the Taraba election. The five- member panel led by Justice Abdul Aboky reserved ruling of the Court on a date that will be conveyed to parties in the matter. Similarly, the court also reserved ruling in the appeal brought before it by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC,

the appeal by the PDP as well as the cross appeal by Hajia Alhassan, after parties adopted all their processes. But, Owonikoko submitted that INEC has no power to approve the nomination of any candidate of a party, saying that it is either the Tribunal or the court that has the power to do that and prayed the court to dismiss the appeal. Chief Solo Aku (SAN), while adopting PDP’s briefs in the appeal said, it is only an aspirant of a party that can challenge the issue of primary election of the party and added that APC and its candidate lack the locus to challenge the conduct of primary election of the PDP.

Boko Haram: Adefuye appeals for total amnesty for convicted soldiers Oseyiza Oogbodo

T L-R: Convener, Coalition for Minority Rights (CMR), Mr Mark Lipdo; representative of Vice President, Pastor Joseph Malomo and representative of Plateau Governor, Mr. Stephen Gadong, at the commemoration of Stefanos Foundation Internally Displace Persons (IDP) Camp anniversary and Launching of Coalition for CMR in Jos.

OPC condemns Tinubu’s call for fuel subsidy removal Ayo Esan

he Pan-Yoruba group, Oodua People’s Congress, OPC has expressed shock over the call by the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC and former Governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu on the Federal Government to remove fuel subsidy. OPC in a release signed by its National Coordinator, Otunba Gani Adams said “This call, coming at this time when Nigerians are suffering untold hardship as a result of the downturn in global economy is both shocking and disappointing”. “It is particularly dis-

turbing that such call was made by a leader of the APC, a party whose leaders were in the forefront of a protest that shook the nation when former President Goodluck Jonathan increased fuel price to N97 per liter a few years ago. “As we speak, more than 15 states are unable to pay their workers as a result of the shortfall in the nation’s earnings. Without doubt, the removal of the fuel subsidy, which in truth is about the only thing that Nigerians enjoy from the government, will inflict more hardship on hapless Nigerians”, OPC said. OPC warned that any increase in the price of fuel via the removal of subsidy will definitely

lead to increase in the prices of food stuff, while transport fares will shoot up, leaving civil servants who are already suffering from the shortfall in government’s allocations to suffer more. It said that rather than attempt to remove subsidy, the government should focus its attention on efforts to put our refineries in good shape. “It is a shame that at this age of our national life, Nigeria takes her crude oil to smaller countries like Equatorial Guinea to refine and later bring back same into the country as imported fuel”, OPC said. “Government has also promised us change, but whatever change Nigeri-

ans expect and deserve from President Muhhamadu Buhari should not be to further push them into poverty. “Let President Buhari and all organs of government responsible for production and distribution of oil in the country stop the blame game and go after the disease instead of continuing to treat the symptom, which at all times, have only given us temporary reprieve. “More importantly, it is imperative that the government should know that any attempt to remove subsidy will only benefit the oil marketers, the cartel and all those who have combined to make living hell for Nigerians, OPC further said.

he Olugbon of Lagos, Senator Anthony Adefuye has appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to give total amnesty to the soldiers whose death sentences were commuted to 10-year jail terms last weekend. In a press release issued in Lagos Monday, Adefuye thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for reviewing the death sentences of the soldiers saying “If not for your coming, they would have been executed.” He appeals to Buhari that the soldiers be given total amnesty. “In recent times, my telephone has been bombarded with messages from some of these condemned soldiers who want me to plead on their behalf. I then asked them to give me one reason why I should plead further for total amnesty and they gave me several reasons. “In view of recent revelations, that the $2.1 billion meant to equip our soldiers was diverted into private pockets, I therefore plead that these unfortunate soldiers be given full amnesty. They should be allowed to go home and

spend the Christmas with their families. If Dasuki and others who diverted the funds are going to spend Christmas with their families, then these soldiers deserve to jubilate with their own families. “It will not be morally justifiable to convict these soldiers who refused to run away or commit suicide at the front but merely demanded to be equipped to fight the insurgents. Knowing full well that it’s those who pocketed the $2.1 billion equipment fund who convicted these soldiers, the conviction should be considered null and void. “If these soldiers had not spoken up, maybe the $2.1 billion would never have been detected stolen, as the death sentence was to silence them forever. It’s those who stole the equipment fund who should be court-martialled for diversion of funds and sabotage”, Adefuye said. “If those who deserted the army at that time are now being recalled, why then jail these brave unfortunate soldiers who decided to expose what was really happening at the war front? “I therefore use this Christmas season to plead for full amnesty for these soldiers”, Adefuye said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Dickson, Sylva trade words over rerun poll Osahon Julius YENAGOA

s the candidates of the People Democratic Party, PDP, and the All Progressive Congress, APC, set for another run of election to determine who wins the Bayelsa gubernatorial poll, both campaign teams are presently in a war of words with the Seriake Dickson’s team, boasting that former Governor Timipre Sylva will be humiliated during the January 9, 2016 rescheduled poll. In its reaction, the Sylva/Igiri campaign team of the APC boasted that its candidate, Sylva was ready and willing to compete against Dickson at any electoral contest any day because he,Sylva is sure of winning. The party said Dickson, the candidate of the PDP was aware of the fact and that is why he had been engaging in all manner of “underhand tactics” to win the rerun election. They PDP also described as outright lies and false propaganda, claims by the All Progressives Congress that Dickson had stopped December salaries of civil servants. The campaign organization also denied buying up voter cards ahead of the rerun election in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the state saying, the APC candidate, Sylva, would be roundly defeated in the rerun.

The organisation’s Director of Publicity, Jonathan Obuebite, in a statement on Monday, said the claims by the APC were vicious propaganda on the part of Sylva to win election by hook or by crook. According to him, civil servants in Bayelsa State trust that Dickson won’t take such an action because they know him as “the most civil servant friendly governor who places premium on their welfare and general wellbeing.” He added that when other states were owing workers salary for five to eight months and resorting to bailout, Dickson went out of his way to make the much needed sacrifice by cutting down on his personal allowances, including those of his aides and other political appointees just to meet up with the monthly obligations to workers. On the alleged purchase of PVCs, the PDP said it was another vicious lie and propaganda of the APC, saying no amount of campaign of calumny would save Sylva from crushing imminent defeat in the rerun. The APC had said that the governor in his acts of desperation, has vowed to use all possible official means to deal with some top civil servants and politicians believed not to have supported him in the ongoing governorship

election. It added that the Governor is at the same time buying up Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs of eligible voters from Southern Ijaw and other Local Government Areas ahead of the January, 9th 2016, rescheduled election. A statement by the Director of Media and Publicity of the Sylva/Igiri Campaign Organisation, Chief Nathan Egba, said it was disturbing for a Governor preaching good governance and good democratic norms to be muscling up his people to support him when in fact one of the pillars of democracy is freedom of

choice and association. The strategy of the Governor Dickson is to throw around cash as a form of inducement to secure victory and at the end abandon the people again like he has done for almost 4 years now. Egba, said that it was for that reason that the APC vehemently protested the illegal cancellation of the Southern Ijaw election results which clearly would have put the party well ahead of the PDP. Egba said, “But with all the stakeholders having agreed on a new date, the Sylva- Igiri Campaign Organisation is poised to galvanise our support

base in order to repeat the same feat we performed in SILGA and some other polling units across six local government areas. “Our strength is in the fact that the majority of the people of SILGA are with us and are still committed to standing by us through this whole process in order to eventually celebrate a hard won victory. “Like you all know that our revered and wellrespected deputy governorship candidate, Elder Wilberforce Igiri and our indefatigable State Party Chairman, Chief Tiwei Orunimighe, a former SILGA chairman is from the area.”

He, therefore, called on the people to remain steadfast and vote the APC come January 9 in the rescheduled election. Egba assured the teeming supporters and members from Southern Ijaw and other places where election would hold, that Sylva was fully aware of all they had passed through in recent times in the hands of the opposition. He made it clear that the party would fully take care of all the party leaders, members, supporters and friends in the incoming APC administration as Sylva would run an allinclusive government to bring prosperity to all.

L-R: Bauchi State Governor Muhammed Abubakar, welcoming the Speaker House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, to an APC rally where about 3,070 PDP Members decamped to APC in Dutse, Jigawa, recently.

Meeting Lagosians’ yearnings through the People’s Budget

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 educational system, and further enhance the knowledge of our children to enable them compete effectively with their peers in developed countries”, the Governor said. On security, Governor Ambode while acknowledging that it was a major challenge that confronted the state within the first few months of his administration, said the government adopted a multifaceted approach at tackling this challenge, just as he pledged to continue to support the security agencies in 2016. On road infrastructure, the Governor said one of the assignments that his administration had embarked upon is to regularly inspect the state of the roads to ascertain their conditions and ensure that they are motorable, assuring that while ongoing projects will be given priority in the course of the year, new roads will be constructed across the length and breadth of the state. On transportation, Governor Ambode said: “The plan in Year 2016 is to fully operationalize our multi-modal transport system through the construction of new jetties and completion of works on the Blue-Rail line project from Mile 2 to Marina. We will deliver this project in Year 2016.” He added: “We will continue to intensify our campaign on compliance with the Lagos State Traffic Laws and en-

courage our road users to comply with the provisions of the Law but would not hesitate to apply the full measure of the Law on recalcitrant drivers and motorcyclists. Receiving the budget, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa commended the governor for procuring security equipment to combat insecurity in the state, just as he assured that the budget proposal would be meticulously looked into by the House. Obasa also thanked the Governor for always swiftly responding to and complying with the motion and resolutions passed by the House, saying such was a demonstration of the respect which the Governor has for the lawmakers. He also urged traditional rulers in attendance to honour the Governor with a chieftaincy title in recognition of the genuine commitment and excellent leadership qualities exhibited so far ever since assuming office on May 29, 2015. Dignitaries present at the event include former speakers of the House of Assembly including Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, Jokotola Pelumi, National Assembly members, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, religious leaders, among others.

Leaders of All Progressives Congress, APC in the State including Prince Tajudeen Olusi, Cardinal James Odunbaku, S. A Sumonu, Wale Oshun, among others were also present at the budget presentation. All attention will shift to the House of Assembly to expedite action on the Budget, pass it in good time to enable the present administration hit the ground running in full swing.

Features

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Day Adeosun shocked her Finance Ministry staff Obiora Ifoh ABUJA

typical Friday in the Federal Capital city is usually a day when civil servants begin to wind down for the week, but a visit to the Federal Ministry of Finance last week Friday, there was certainly no weekend mood as virtually every staff were glued to their seat and engaged to their beats. On investigation, it was observed that it was a day the Federal Executive Council, FEC was billed to meet to ratify the 2016 budget. It was meant to be a day the ministry was billed to unveil its financial blueprint. The programme as leant was later postponed. It was also a day the management of the National Mirror led by its Managing Director, Mr. Sunday Olajide chose to pay a scheduled visit to the Ministry. The visit was purposely to book an appointment with the minister. It would be recalled that shortly after President Muhammadu Buhari released the list of the ministerial nominees, National Mirror was the first newspaper in Nigeria, through an informed sources to relay to Nigerians of the choice of Mrs Kemi Adeosun by the President as the minister designate for Finance. Most analysts could not come to terms with the reality of ‘little known’ Adeosun mounting the saddle only recently vacated by renowned financial expert and World Bank ‘guru’. To them, it was inconceivable for a ‘mere’ Commissioner in one South West State to fit into the bill of Finance minister. But unknown to many but well known to National Mirror, Mrs. Adeosun who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the University of East London and a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Financial Management from the University of London has been well equipped to handle the nation’s economy with an experience that spanned more than 25 years as international financial expert. She worked as Accounting assistant at British Telecom Company, London, from 1989 – 1990. She then worked as a Senior audit officer at Goodman Jones, London, from 1990- 1993. She was a Manager, Internal Audit at London Underground Limited, London, 1994 – 1995. She also worked as a Manager Internal Audit, Prism Consulting from 1996 – 2000. She was a Senior Manager at the Price Waterhouse Coopers, London, from 2000- 2002. She joined Chapel Hill Denham Management as a financial controller in 2002 and left the organisation as Managing Director in 2010. She also worked with Quo Vadis Partnership as Managing Director, from June 2010 – June 2011 before she was appointed the Commissioner of Finance in Ogun state, from 2011 – 2015. Adeosun is a member of the Institutes of Chartered Accountants, England and Wales, as well as in Nigeria. But on assumption of office barely two months ago, Kemi Adeosun was faced with the task of repositioning the economy particularly at a period when the international oil price has plummeted, when government is involved in a major war against the hydra-headed tiger called corruption in high places, when the oil marketers are sabotaging the efforts of the government and when Gross Domestic Product has not been encouraging. She was asked to manage a near-comatose economy. Undaunted by these challenges, the Honourable Minister has since plunged herself into murky waters of politics amidst uncertainty, dispatching her expertise to ensure that the economy gets the deserved revamp and that the nation works again. So, on that fateful Friday, as the National Mirror team was seated in one of the Directors’ office, words

Adeosun

Adeosun, according to the feelers from the ministry is working in a familiar terrain particularly with the support of the staff of the ministry who have already bought into the policies of the minister who as a change agent is insisting on transparency in the system

filtered that the minister was on that floor, unaccompanied and was opening every possible office to felicitate with all staff particularly, the lower cadre. The minister would accost the staff individually, introduce herself politely and request to know the staff and thereafter ask about the welfare of each of them. She would throw banters with them; cleaners and office attendants, not excluded. The instructive part of the scene was that it was not meant to be a publicity stunt as no camera crew or even media aide or any aide at all was with her. National Mirror was just an accidental visitor. The minister was just connecting with her constituents in an amazing way, an incident that left pleasant memories of the encounter with the staff.

For the managing team of the National Mirror, it was like killing two birds with one stone. They had come to seek for an appointment date with the minister, but here was the minister walking directly into them, no form to fill, no security hurdles to cross and no intermediary to contend with. Standing before the team was minister, dressed in simple African Print Kaftan with a matching sandal, with an infectious smiles plastering her entire face and warming up to the team. Of course, the director of media in whose office this chance meet took place quickly introduced the team. “You are from National Mirror. Ahhhh, Jimoh (Ibrahim) is my brother and you are doing very great. I read your paper very well and you have really done very well. Please you must keep on supporting this government and its policies...” She also related her experience with the staff and how amazing it was to see the shock in their faces after suddenly realizing that it was the minister that accosted them. “I would have caused some heart attacks today out of excitement when some of them realized that i am the minister. It is indeed a pleasant meeting. You know, all this while, I have been meeting with the directors and other top management but today, I have concluded that I must meet with the rest. They are so important to me and I need every one of them to succeed in this task.” The task is indeed enormous. Even with the Confirmation of payment of N407,076,805,386.30 for subsidy claims to oil marketers so as to end the lingering fuel situation, the queue seems to be getting longer every day. The minister and indeed, Nigerians had hoped that with this action which shows that government is fully committed to meeting its financial obligations in respect of fuel subsidy, the major oil marketers must reciprocate the action by doing all they can to bring the fuel scarcity to an end. On the other issue of Treasury Single Account (TSA), the Minister of Finance has equally issued a circular on guidelines regarding budgeting, revenue and expenditure aimed at ensuring that MDAs remit revenue and generate operating surpluses which by law ought to be credited into the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF). The circular is aimed at compelling Boards and Agencies who currently operate outside of budgetary control to comply with the law. Sec 22(2) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) lists agencies including NPA, NIMASSA, NAFDAC, JAMB, NTA, NCC, CAC, NECO, who should remit 80% of their operating surplus into the Consolidated Revenue Fund. Minister of Finance stated that records show very poor compliance with the provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Some agencies have never credited the Consolidated Revenue Fund despite having salary, capital and overhead financed by the Federal Government. Indeed, cost to income rates of 99.8% have been the average, meaning that they spend all their internally generated revenue and subventions released to them. The Minister said such practices are not sustainable in any economic climate and with the current serious economic challenges being faced by Nigeria, can no longer be tolerated. Accordingly, all revenue generating agencies must comply with the circular and cut their costs. Adeosun, according to the feelers from the ministry is working in a familiar terrain particularly with the support of the staff of the ministry who have already bought into the policies of the minister who as a change agent is insisting on transparency in the system.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Boko Haram insurgency has put businesses under immense pressure in the North East writes JUSTIN TYOPUUSU.

fter a long reign of the terrorists group, Boko Haram, in the North Eastern part of Nigeria, there appears to be calm at last. At least, in the past few months, the areas captured by the insurgency group have been retrieved and life appears to be taking a better shape than what it was. With living victims of the insurgency being taken care of at different Internally Displaced Persons camps, the effects of the reign of the violence perpetrated have been reduced. Although these days, Nigerians can walk the streets of Maiduguri and other parts of the North-East with little or no fear, the effect of the reign of violence on business activities is becoming quite obvious. Perhaps, the reason not much was mentioned about its effects on business activities in the past is because of the absence of peace which of course, creates room for normal life and business activities. But with the relative peace that has started returning to the North East, many are now thinking of a return to normal life where business opportunities would be explored and a better and improved life would be experienced. Many who have since tried to return to a normal life either in the North East or places they had relocated have had tales of hardship to tell. Apart from the pain of having to raise capital to start business all over again, the atmosphere has not become totally conducive. Besides, normal life has so much been defeated such that business activities are not thriving. One of the traders in the North Eastern state of Yobe, Mr. Hillary Chima, narrating his bitter experience said, “Before I fled with my family, a N2.7million trailer load of my goods which was Yobe bound from Kano could not deliver the goods it was carrying to my four shops located in Potiskum and Damaturu.” Chima a dealer in plastic products, children’s wears and kitchen utensils said Potiskum and Damaturu were set on fire Boko Haram when he arrived. “Because we had to flee just to save our lives,” he added “I don’t even know what happened to the goods or the vehicle. All my shops were burnt to the ground with goods worth over N6million in them.” Like many businessmen and women, Mr. Chima Hillary told National Mirror that he was forced to relocate. He now lives in Makurdi, a city in the middle belt region of Nigeria and daily ekes out a living for himself in a community where he is less known and has had to start life from the scratch. It is estimated that the 6 year old Boko Haram insurgency has claimed between 20,000 and 25,000 lives, left thousands of people maimed and an estimated 2.3 million people displaced. Farms have been deserted, whole towns and small communities are today not bubbling with human activities on account of the conflict, same as big businesses which are not even from the region have also been

Features

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Insurgency in North East takes toll on businesses

Soldiers ensuring securtiy in Maiduguri

affected by the conflict. On account of the conflict, small and large farms have been deserted, telecommunications infrastructure has been destroyed, and the livelihoods of ordinary traders have been disrupted. Even big consumer goods companies are also hit. Generally, demand from the region has been curtailed. In most cases, curfews have been arbitrarily imposed; suppliers are not certain about their goods arriving at markets and the terrorists continue to inflict serious damage on trade centres where people meet for exchange hence dampening the commercial prospects of the region. Worried by the conflict, many have to relocate to stay safe. Thousands of small businesses have also closed down their outlets; those still striving no longer flourish since most of their customers have either been dispersed or killed. Mr. Bala Uba Tanko a freelance journalist based in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital says “the impact of the terrorists’ activities on the northern economy is grave.” “The largest international livestock market in West Africa located in Potiskum, Yobe State, was shutdown in 2011 following an attack on the market. Though it’s gradually coming alive again, billions of naira in revenue has been lost within the period,” he said. Traders and businessmen from other parts of Nigeria and neighbouring countries who used to source products from the market have looked for alternatives because of the uncertainty imposed by the terrorists’ attacks that have characterized several markets in the region. Also, the Baga international fish market in Baga local government, Borno State, was shutdown when the town fell to Boko Haram insurgents two years ago. Though the Nigerian Army has retaken the town and reclaimed many territories that were taken by the insurgents, it is yet to attain its former status. Apart from trade, the construction industry has been adversely affected, most

Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai

foreigners carrying out construction work and doing other businesses in the North East have left the region. Multi-national companies have abandoned the region for fear of possible attacks. And investors are unwilling to invest there. Last year, armed Boko Haram fighters stormed the factory of a major cement manufacturer located in the North East and made away with dynamites meant for the cement company’s production processes. Also several foreign workers have been kidnapped for ransom in the region. Hundreds of youths from the North East now roam the streets of Abuja, Lagos and other commercial cities in Nigeria in hope of making a living. Many have refused to go back because of the horrendous experiences they have had. Mr. Emmanuel Uzuegbunam, CEO of Emma Young Battery and Tyres Nig. Limited, narrating his story said, “My wife and children were out; suddenly two loud explosions rocked our area, followed by sporadic gunshots. The shots kept coming closer so I had to abandon the house and run for safety.” Mr. Uzuegbunam stayed in the bush for over 48 hours before he got in touch with his family. As a victim of insurgency, he had to sell all his belongings, liquidated his business to raise funds and relocated his family to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

“What saddens me the most is that I had to leave a region I had lived in for 25 years without even planning to do so. I lived in Damaturu for 20 years apart from other places, and I invested heavily in several businesses in the North East,” he said. He lost over N14 million in Yobe and over N7.5 million in Maiduguri where some of his shops were burnt with goods in them. These attacks, he said, forced him to sell his house, and goods so as to raise money to relocate. Even though he managed to relocate to the oil rich state of Akwa Ibom in the Niger Delta, he lamented that life has not been easy. “The little money I managed to escape with has since been expended on rent and feeding which are very expensive here compared to the North,” he said. Like Uzuegbunam, Mr. Chima Hillary Mmeje, who was a dealer in household utensils and plastic wares in Yobe also said he lost everything to bombings in Damaturu and Potiskum between 2011 and 2012. While making allusion to the debilitating impact the crisis in the North East has had on the overall economy of Nigeria, the medium term expenditure framework released by the federal government indicated that “security challenges in parts of the North East have continued to destabilise economic activities in the region.” “While this was factored in the revenue forecast for 2015, the insurgency has undermined the government’s tax yield (including income, profit, consumption taxes) and hence projected tax revenues,” the statement released by the federal government says. While the government is robbed of critical revenues by the crisis, small traders, farmers, manufacturers and artisans have had their livelihoods cut back. Small businessmen and women are the once who in most cases have no alternative source of livelihood and have had to often start all over in remote locations where they are now completely strangers. For most of them, their consistent prayer is that government should come to their rescue.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Bullish trend pushes market value up by N65bn Johnson Okanlawon

rading in equities closed on a positive note on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday with investor’s wealth increasing by N65 billion, after panic sell-off that dominated trading in the previous session. The Market Capitalisation which opened at N9.124 trillion surged by 0.72 per cent to close at N9, 189 trillion. The All-Share Index improved by 191.28 basis points

to close at 26,728.64 as against 26,537.36 points recorded on Friday. At the close of trading session for the day, 18 stocks recorded price gains as against 17 others on the losers table. Dangote Cement Plc led on the gainers table with N2.04 or 1.36 percent to close at N152.05 per share. Guaranty Trust Bank Plc followed with 95 kobo or 4.99 percent to close at N20.00 per share, while Ecobank Transnational Incorporated

was up with 70 kobo or 4.38 per cent to close at 16.70 per share. Union Bank Plc followed with additional value of 28 kobo or 4.91 per cent to close at N5.98 per share. West African Portland Cement Plc (WAPCO) gained 25 kobo or 0.27 per cent to close at N92.25 per share. Conversely, Nestle Plc led on the losers table with N10.00 or 1.25 per cent to close at N790.00 per share. It was trailed by Mobil

Oil Plc was down by N5.84 or 4.64 per cent to close at N120.00 per share, while Flourmills Plc was up with N1.05 or five percent to close at N19.95 per share UACN declined by 25 kobo or 1.32 percent to close at N18.75 per share, while Fidson Plc dipped 13 kobo or 4.85 percent to close at N2.55 per share. In all, investors traded 195.98 million shares valued at N2.387 billion in 191.28 deals.

US stocks closes higher on financials

inancial stocks led a cheerful start to the Christmas holiday week for the US stock markets, rebounding from two days of losses, with investors taking in stride a slide in crude prices. Trading volumes are expected to be relatively light this week, with stock markets operating a shortened session on Thursday and closing on Friday for Christmas. US stock indexes slumped on Thursday and Friday as weak crude prices dampened the optimism sparked by the first Federal Reserve interest rate hike in nearly a decade. Oil prices have been sliding under continued pressure from global oversupply and tepid demand.

“It’s going to be interesting to see if this market can hold up and divorce itself, at least for today, from the price of oil,” said Peter Cardillo, chief market economist at First Standard Financial in New York. “We’re probably going to stay in the trading range, with an upward bias.” The Dow Jones industrial average was up 85.25 points, or 0.5 per cent, at 17,213.8, the S&P 500 was up 12.3 points, or 0.61 per cent, at 2,017.85 and the Nasdaq Composite index was up 33.26 points, or 0.68 per cent, at 4,956.35. Although the S&P 500 touched record highs in 2015, the index is down 2.6 per cent for the year, buffeted by slowing growth in China, slump in

commodities and uncertainty over US interest rates. The Dow Jones industrial average is down 3.9 per cent. The Nasdaq Composite, which briefly breached its dotcom highs this year, is the only one of the three major indexes in the black, having risen 3.9 per cent so far in 2015. All 10 major S&P sectors were higher, led by a 0.83 per cent rise in the financial sector, JPMorgan’s shares were up 1.5 per cent and provided the biggest boost. Goldman Sachs was up 1.1 per cent and gave the biggest push to the Dow. Microsoft was up 0.9 per cent at $54.98 - providing the biggest boost to the S&P and Nasdaq - after a Barron’s report

“We read job cuts as only one sign of the secular, rather than cyclical trend to permanently smaller banks.” Tens of thousands of staff were axed during and after the 2007/09 financial crisis but the fresh wave of cuts in Europe shows how the region’s banks are trailing their U.S. counterparts in bringing in structural overhauls. In 2014 and 2013 a combined 78,000 job cuts were announced at eighteen of Europe’s largest banks, which represented 4.1 percent of staff, was far less than cuts of 7.3 per cent in headcount across six major US banks. An IMF study last year of 300 large global banks showed that only about 30 per cent of euro zone lenders had a structure that was able to make a reasonable rate of return over time, compared with 80 per cent of those in the US. “US banks have mainly

done what’s needed to be done and are on an upward curve” said Chris Wheeler, bank analyst at Atlantic Equities. “Then you have the ‘Road to Damascus banks’. They’ve finally realized that the market won’t bail them out and they have to make some fundamental changes – Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse, Barclays. It’s going to be a year of major change that, in most cases, won’t be completed for a number of years.” While some cuts will come from selling off businesses, new technology is also contributing as banks close branches and shift to systems requiring less manpower. “We’re in a long term bear market for banking jobs as we’re finally seeing technology and automation taking out jobs in retail banking,” Xavier VanHove, partner at fund manager THS Partners told Reuters.

Inter-Bank Rate Naira

US Dollar

N196.95 Market indicators All-Share Index 26,728.64 points Market capitalisation 9.19trn

on Sunday that the company’s shares could rise 30 per cent over the next 18 months. Disney was down 1.6 per cent at $106.02, wiping out earlier gains from the latest Star Wars instalment’s box officebreaking opening weekend. “Investors are concerned with the other businesses within Disney, it’s not just Star Wars,” said Adam Sarhan, chief executive of Sarhan Capital in New York. Advancing issues outnumbered decliners on the NYSE by 2,117 to 816. On the Nasdaq, 1,776 issues rose and 909 fell. The S&P 500 index showed two new 52-week highs and 11 new lows, while the Nasdaq recorded 27 new highs and 54 new lows.

European banks poised for job cuts in 2016 profit drive egulation, anemic economic growth and technology changes will force banks across Europe to find more savings in 2016, with jobs likely to be the biggest casualty, according to investors and analysts. Ten of the region’s biggest banks have announced staff cuts of 130,000 since June, according to data compiled by Reuters more than the total number of job losses announced by those banks in 2013 and 2014. But investors believe the industry will need to slim down further and faster to boost profits. “The perpetrators of 2008 still need to pay a penance and must shrink balance sheets in so doing,” said Jamie Clark, co-manager on the Liontrust Macro Thematic team, referring to the banking crisis that triggered a deep global recession from which several of the world’s largest economies are still recovering.

Source: NSE

A lagging European economy is also adding to banks’ woes. While the U.S. Federal Reserve has begun raising interest rates its counterpart in Europe is contemplating further monetary easing, which could eat into banks’ interest margins. Rate (%) Inflation

8.2

MPR

Crude oil price

$58.96

Exchange

Rates (N)

WAUA

270

USD

196.95

EURO

214

CFA

0.32

YEN

1.64

SWISS FRANC

202

POUNDS STERLING

293

SDR

273

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

UNITYBNK

0.73

0.79

0.06

8.22

GUARANTY

19.05

20.00

0.95

4.99

UBN

5.70

5.98

0.28

4.91

DIAMONDBNK

2.33

2.44

0.11

4.72

ETRANZACT

2.79

2.92

0.13

4.66

ETI

16.00

16.70

0.70

4.38

HONYFLOUR

1.91

1.98

0.07

3.66

LAWUNION

0.71

0.73

0.02

2.82

OANDO

5.73

5.88

0.15

2.62

SKYEBANK

1.23

1.26

0.03

2.44

CHANGE

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

FLOURMILL

21.00

19.95

-1.05

-5.00

CHAMPION

3.49

3.32

-0.17

-4.87

FIDSON

2.68

2.55

-0.13

-4.85

MOBIL

125.84

120.00

-5.84

-4.64

VONO

0.69

0.66

-0.03

-4.35

CUSTODYINS

4.18

4.01

-0.17

-4.07

LIVESTOCK

1.42

1.37

-0.05

-3.52

NEM

0.70

0.68

-0.02

-2.86

UCAP

1.27

1.24

-0.03

-2.36

FCMB

1.82

1.78

-0.04

-2.20

FGN Bonds

Bid

Description

Offer

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.35

108.63

8.19

109.63

7.45

16.00 29-JUN-2019

3.52

115.53

10.60

116.53

10.29

15.54 13-FEB-2020

4.15

114.68

11.02

115.68

10.74

16.39 27-JAN-2022

6.10

122.38

11.22

123.38

11.02

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.23

115.57

11.24

116.57

11.07

10.00 23-JUL-2030

14.59 89.83

11.45

90.83

11.29

Closing Market Prices of December 21, 2015

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

24-Mar-16

2.28

2.30

16-Jun-16

5.00

5.12

15-Dec-16

7.05

7.49

NIBOR Tenor

Rate (%)

O/N

1.3233

8.5550

10.2171

12.4431 CBN Clearing Rates of December 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Community Mirror

The country’s over-dependence on oil is the cause of the downturn in the economy for now, it has been responsible for the emergence of redundant human resources base and high level corruption. –VICE-PRESIDENT, PROF. YEMI OSINBAJO Ojo Oyewamide, AKURE

serial fraudster, David Emmanuel, was at the weekend remanded in police custody on the order of Akure Chief Magistrate court for duping a youth corps member. Emmanuel was said to have been notorious for duping National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, members and job seekers. He was arraigned before the court sitting in Akure, Ondo State capital, for allegedly duping one Idowu Temitope of a sum of N750, 000. The suspect, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge preferred against him. According to the charge sheet brought by the Police Prosecution, Tolu Abisagbo, Emmanuel was accused of collecting N120, 000 from Temitope under false pretence of securing employment for him at the Department for International Development, DFID. The Prosecution said the corps member also paid Emmanuel a sum of N630, 000 with a promise of assisting him of buying two cars from two federal agencies. Abisagbo said the offences committed by the suspect were punishable under section 516 of the criminal code and laws of the state.

Court remands alleged serial fraudster

his year edition of the annual Bond fm 92.9 Lagos Christmas family funfair is aimed at promoting family value and recognition of the importance of children in the society. This was disclosed by General Manager, Bond fm, Adeyinka Amosun, at the flag-off of this year’s edition at the premises of the station in Lagos. Adeyinka noted that the event was being put together to fulfill its mandate of uplifting and unifying the nation, adding that it was also an attempt to remind all and sundry that children are the leaders of tomorrow. The programme is also designed to create an avenue for

Ebere Ndukwu

R-L: General Manager, Bond fm 92.9, Adeyinka Amosun; representative of Director, Lagos Operation: From Engr Abiola, Oba Fatusi Obawole of Ifako Kingdom and Oba Idowu Akindele of Akute, at the flagoff of this year’s edition of Christmas family funfair by the station. PHOTO: DARE AKOGUN

After the suspect’s plea was taken, his counsel, Rosiji Emmanuel, asked the court to grant him bail pending the time the case would be disposed off. The lawyer prayed the court to grant his client bail on the

ground that he was presumed innocent until proven contrary. But the prosecution counsel argued that the accused should not be granted bail because other suspects were still at large, adding that granting

of bail could influence police investigation. The Presiding Magistrate, Sola Adedapo, ordered the suspect to be remanded in police custody till December 22, when the matter comes up for further hearing.

Bond Fm Xmas funfair promoting family value –Amosun Dare Akogun

Presidential task force urges Buhari to absorb officers into civil service

interaction of children from different walks of life and create a bond and friendship between them. He advised parents to be up and doing in their duties to these children, saying that part of the major problem the nation is facing was the collapse of family values.

He, however, implored parents to bring their children and wards to the premises of the station as there are numerous activities lined up solely for the enjoyment of children at a token. This year’s event is scheduled to hold between Monday, December 14, and Wednesday, Decem-

ber 23, 2015. Dignitaries at the event include Director of Lagos Operations, FRCN, Mr Emeka Ohio, ably represented by Engr Abiola; Oba Fatusi Obawole, paramount ruler of Ifako kingdom, Oba Idowu Akindele of Akute kingdom and popular veteran actor Sunday Omobolanle.

Katsina to spend N141m on dam rehabilitation James Danjuma, KATSINA

partially washed away dam is to be rehabilitated in Malumfashi council area of Katsina state at the cost of N141.7 million. The dam was partially washed away last year following heavy rainfall and attendant

flooding in the council area. Decision to repair the dam was taken yesterday during the weekly state executive council meeting that was chaired by Governor Aminu Bello Masari. Speaking on the issue, the state commissioner of information, Hamza Mohammed said the project is to be completed in three months time.

Mohammed said the project was part of the state administration’s effort in fulfilling its campaign promise to provide portable water to its citizens. He assured of state government’s commitment to improving the lot of its people, as well as initiating and completing viable water and other projects across the state.

he embattled Subsidy Reinvestment Programme/ Federal Roads Maintenance Authority, SUREP/FERMA), Presidential Task Force, has called on the Federal Government to re-engage its officers into the federal civil service and arrange for immediate payment of their three years arrears. Speaking in Lagos during a peaceful rally organised by the group in Lagos, the national commandant general, Moses Garuba Happy, pleaded with President Muhammadu Buhari, Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki and Speaker, House of Representative, Hon. Yakubu Dogara to save them from rejection and suffering. According to Commandant Happy “We are employed for over two years from 2012 to 2015 no salary has been paid and they asked us to go that we will be recalled back but till date nothing has been done, we have not been recalled and no single salary has been paid to us, that is why we are crying out for our salary arrears to be paid and for Federal Government to recall us to continue our job. We want job continuity because we are ready to support the President to fight corruption and bring it to an end. “Our main duty is to recover federal government properties, procurement, high way emergency and safety, water ways emergency and safety among others” he said. The commandant promised that his officers will support President Buhari to end corruption in the country. “51,000 officers of the Federal Taskforce, we believe in the President government of change. He should not make this season ‘black’ Christmas for us, we are not partisans but patriotic Nigerian.” Acknowledging the efforts of the Senate Committee on Federal Taskforce in trying to help the officers get back to work, Moses encouraged them to put more efforts to ensure that justice is done.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

42 47

World News

Nobody wants to believe us, nobody wants to believe that we’re not trying to bring the Soviet Union back.

–RUSSIAN PRESIDENT, VLADIMIR PUTIN

China landslide: Rescuers search for missing persons WITH AGENCY REPORT

A rescue worker seen searching for missing bodies in a collapsed in Chinese city of Shenzhen yesterday. front door,” she further said. “The war in Syria, the barrel bombings by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the spread of IS in Syria and Iraq, the fact that Libya has no functioning government, the situation in Afghanistan, all that is no longer far away but has come to us.” More than one million refugees have come to Germany so far this year, the country’s officials said. Meanwhile, authorities in Greece have been struggling to cope with growing numbers of

migrants in its capital, Athens, as Balkan countries block their route further north. An agreement to provide subsidised accommodation for migrants was signed yesterday. The deal between the Greek government, the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) and the European Commission will help to provide housing for 20, 000 new arrivals in Athens. The UNHCR will assist in paying rental costs in private, unoccupied flats.

Rwanda has overcome past fears –Kagame

wandans are no longer afraid of their past and are optimistic about their future, President Paul Kagame has said. An overwhelming majority of voters represented by 98 per cent backed the proposed changes. Kagame, who made the re-

Rwandan President, Paul Kagame

‘Mugabe’s wife now in power’ Zimbabwe’s aging President Robert Mugabe has been surreptitiously but willingly replaced by his wife Grace, opposition leader, Morgan Tsvangirai, yesterday. “Grace has taken over in a palace coup and no one in government is doing anything about the country’s crisis,” the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) leader said in an end-of-year message. “No one in government is thinking of solutions to the national challenges as everyone is preoccupied with issues of who will succeed this tired man steering the ship of State,” he added. “There is no boldness to confront the national crisis; what with an aged president and everyone around him fighting to succeed him.

Afolabi Gambari

he German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, yesterday described the migrant crisis as a historic test for Europe. Merkel, who defended her policy on migrants at the annual conference of her CDU party, said that Germany had stood by its humanitarian duties. Merkel’s decision to welcome refugees fleeing Syria’s civil war has not been popular within her own party. She rejected the idea of an upper limit on migrant numbers, sought by some in her own party and by the leader of the CDU’s powerful Bavarian sister party, the CSU. “However, the flow of migrants would be reduced and this is a step that some members of the party have been calling for,” she explained, adding, “Such a reduction is in the interest of Germany and in the interest of the migrants themselves.” The German leader said the decision by Germany and Austria to allow in migrants stranded in the Hungarian capital, after many started walking towards the border on September 4, was a humanitarian imperative. “Something that was far away from us, that we have seen on television, is now literally at our

AFRICAN BULLETIN

marks hours after he was endorsed by Rwandans at home and abroad in a referendum at the weekend, said the majority of people who voted in favour of the constitutional changes were young Rwandans, who belonged to a generation that never had reason to fear a policeman. “We are not afraid of the past. We are full of optimism for the future. Let us not miss our moment. There is an even better Rwanda ahead, and the chance to definitively transform Rwanda. This is the future we always wanted for our children,” the excited president said. Several analysts had predicted Rwandans would likely back the constitutional amendments as they have been experiencing economical development and stability since Kagame became president in 2000. The referendum was scheduled earlier in December after the parliament backed a pro-

posal to amend article 101 concerning presidential terms. It is believed that some 3.8 million Rwandans signed a petition calling for a third term for the sitting leader. Kagame, who is seen by many as the man who stopped the genocide that caused the death of at least 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus in 1994, said he would announce the future on his political career soon. According to the amendments, he can now be re-elected in the 2017 election and stay in power for two subsequent fiveyear terms, potentially until 2034. Although Kagame is seen by many as a leader capable of bringing about social and economic progress in Rwanda, he has been accused of cracking down on political opponents and freedom of speech, implementing a climate of fear. The government denied the allegations.

Russia, Turkey crisis: Downed jet’s box ‘unreadable’

ata on the flight recorder of the Russian war plane downed by Turkey last month has so far proved to be unreadable, Russia’s military said yesterday. It said the memory chips from the Su-24 bomber downed on the Syrian border were destroyed or badly damaged. The Russians had hoped to prove the plane never entered Turkish airspace, as claimed by Ankara. Work will continue to try to retrieve the data. The incident sparked a major bilateral crisis, with Russia imposing sanctions. The Russian military representatives presented their preliminary findings in Moscow yesterday, after opening the “black box” on Friday in the presence of international experts. Some 13 of the 16 chips had been destroyed, while x-ray tests on the others showed extracting information would be impossible using normal methods. The Su-24 was shot down by F-16 fighters on 24 November. Turkey insisted that the jet, from the Russian air contingent deployed in Syria in support of President Bashar al-Assad, ignored warnings to leave its airspace. Both crew members ejected but the pilot was killed, apparently by militants on the ground while the navigator was rescued.

Muslims shield Christians in bus attack A group of Kenyan Muslims travelling on a bus ambushed by Islamist gunmen protected Christian passengers by refusing to be split into groups, according to eyewitnesses. They told the militants “to kill them together or leave them alone”, a local governor, Ali Roba, said yesterday. At least two people were killed in the attack, near the north-eastern village of El Wak on the Somali border, Somali based al-Shabab group the main suspect for the attack. When al-Shabab killed 148 people in an attack on Garissa University College in April, the militants reportedly singled out Christians and shot them, while freeing many Muslims.

Malawi shelves anti-gay laws Malawi has imposed a moratorium on anti-homosexual laws pending a decision on whether to repeal the legislation, Justice Minister, Samuel Tembenu, said yesterday. The government announced a similar suspension of anti-homosexuality laws in 2012, however this did not prevent the two men being arrested. “A review of all colonial-area sodomy laws will be launched in consultation with the people of Malawi,” Tembenu said, as he also ordered the release of two men charged with having sex “against the order of nature”, which a human rights activist described as a step in the right direction. However, many Malawians are not happy with the decision and religious leaders have asked the government not to relent to pressure from Western donors by allowing same-sex relationships.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

North

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Dangote cement gives scholarships to 14 students

People buying second-hand clothes at Abubakar Gumi Central market in Kaduna, yesterday.

Plateau commissioners resume duty

JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

ew commissioners in Plateau State yesterday resumed duty at their various ministries. Seventeen of them were last week sworn in by Governor Simon Lalong after a successful screening and confirmation by members of the House of Assembly. Mr. Festus Velnoe Fuanter, who resumed at the Ministry of Lands, Survey and Town Planning, expressed govern-

ment’s commitment to re-position the sector for greater productivity. The commissioner, who was conducted round the ministry by its permanent secretary, Mr. James Giwa, and other officials on inspection, told the staff that the All Progressives Congress, APC, administration was determined to impact positively on the lives of the people, hence the need for them to key into the agenda through hard work and commitment to their duties.

Fuanter said, “Governor Lalong is determined to better the lives of citizens of the state and we will work to ensure this is achieved. “The only way for the present administration to succeed is to harness all avenue that will enhance the financial status of the state and this ministry is on the priority list of government. “The era where government depends solely on oil is almost gone and every government has to look for alternative

NEMA donates relief materials to Taraba govt JUSTIN TYOPUUSU JALINGO

ational Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, yesterday donated relief materials worth millions of Naira to Taraba State government for distribution to 2015 flood disaster victims in the state. Taraba was among states affected by the flood disaster this year following heavy rainfall and the release of water from Lagdo dam by Cameroonian government. Presenting the relief materials to government, Director General of the agency, Mohammed Sani Sidi, represented by head of Gombe operations office, Mr. Saidu Mini, said the materials were meant to ameliorate the hard-

ship being faced by the victims. He explained that the delay in handing over materials to the state government was due to the tight schedule of the governor and t NEMA boss, who wanted to perform the presentation in person. Mini, on behalf of the director general, sympathised with the people and government of Taraba State over the disaster and called for collaborative efforts to prevent a future recurrence. Responding, Governor Darius Ishaku, who was represented by Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Mr. Anthony Jellason, thanked President Muhammadu Buhari and NEMA for their prompt response to the plight of flood victims in the state.

He said the state government had on its part, released N50 million for the procurement and distribution of relief materials to the victims and assured that the materials would be judiciously distributed to victims across the six local government areas of Karim Lamido, Lau, Gassol, Ardo-Kola, Wukari and Ibi. Ishaku called on stakeholders in disaster management to come up with strategies to mitigate flood disasters in the country. Items donated include 1,800 bags of rice, 1,800 bags of beans, mosquito nets, beddings, building materials, toiletries, wrappers, household utensils and school aides for children, among others.

sources of revenue generation. “I do not believe in failure and making Plateau State great is our collective responsibility. “Plateau is a state in which everybody wants to own a house and that is why Governor Lalong is doing everything possible to bring lasting peace to it. “It is not going to be business as usual and I am calling on all staff to be diligent and cooperate with us in order to move the state forward.”

anagement of Dangote Cement Plc, Ibese plant, Ogun State, at the weekend announced a fresh multi-million naira scholarship awards for secondary school and higher institution students from its 14 host communities in what is now an annual activity. Leaders and youths of the host communities, who are guests of the company, went into celebration when the company presented cheques to 49 students of higher institutions and secondary schools scattered in the country. A prominent monarch from the area, His Royal Majesty, Oba Gbadebo Adesola Oni, the Olu of Imasayi, who was royal father of the day, commended the company’s management for the gesture, which he said has been running for some years since Dangote started production in Ibeseland. He stated that the communities’ leaders appreciated the fact that there had always been an improvement in the number of benefitting community members, urging the company not to rest on its oars. Olu of Imasayi pointed out that many Nigerians were as rich as Dangote, but would not invest in

the education of children because of selfishness, noting that should Nigeria be blessed with five Dangotes, the country would for long have joined the developed countries. He said God has been blessing Dangote because his prodigy goes beyond Nigeria. In his opening remark, acting plant director, Louis Raj, described the scholarship as an annual ritual for the company all in an effort to contribute to the educational development of the people and host communities. He said it is all part of the company’s CSR plan to impact positively on the lives of the people and the communities within which it operates and that, that is what has makes the CSR profile of the company very robust. Raj said the people should expect intervention from the company in critical areas like power, water, healthcare, social harmony etc.

Dangote

Bailout funds: Fundamental checks should have been employed –FRC chairman

cting chairman, Fiscal Responsibility Commission, FRC, Mr. Victor Muruako, said adoption of the Fiscal Responsibility Act should have been a condition for states before they were given bailout funds. Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, on Monday in Abuja, he said the Act was only operational at the federal level. According to him, with such a condition, states could be made to account for how they use their funds, otherwise the bailout funds could be mismanaged or diverted. “I was thinking that the prior conditions to be given to any state before the bailout should have been ‘you must sign up to the law.’

“You must also live up to the principles of a new fiscal responsibility regime.’ “The risk is that even the bailout funds, as we are already hearing, can also be mismanaged in such a way that will not make for fiscally responsible spending. “I know there were conditions attached, but we are thinking there should have been some fundamental checks. “You find out how the states used their funds first, and then there should be a prior condition that you must sign up to the new regime of fiscal responsibility,” he said. Muruako added that states could be fiscally responsible by stating clearly how the funds were used. He also said that adopt-

ing the Act could avoid further bailouts. “By signing up to the law you would have adopted the law at your state level and you will start immediate implementation and that would avoid further bailouts. “At the end of the day, they (states) would still be required to pay back and since it is not magic, they would definitely be under pressure to pay back,’’ he said. Muruako, however, commended the Federal Government for assisting the states that needed the funds, saying it was a good decision. He said if the Federal Government had not bailed the states out, the situation would have worsened and it would have affected the entire nation.

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

CHANGE OF NAME

OKONKWO: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKONKWO CALLISTA EZINNE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ESSANG CALLISTA EZINNE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note. CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to confirm that I, AKIN ADEYEMI is the same person and one person bearing all these names AKIN ADEYEMI and ABERE AKIN . All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ADUKWE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ADUKWE FIDERIA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ADOGA FIDERIA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as Abbey Adeniyi Oshinowo now wish to be known and addressed as Abiodun Adeniyi Oshinowo. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note

CHANGE OF NAME OGBUNWACHIMA: I, formerly known and addressed as OGBUNWACHIMA VICTOR ONYEBUCHI, now wish to be known and addressed as OGBU VICTOR. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MBANUGO NWAMAKA NNENNE, now wish to be known and addressed as OKONKWO NWAMAKA NNENNE. All documents remain valid. General public please take note

Formerly known and addressed as Odunaiya Margaret Arinaina, now wish to be known and addressed as Olajide Margaret Arinaina. All documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I Formerly known and addressed as MISS GBOLAHAN OYENIHUN OYEBIMPE TEMITOPE REGINA, now wish to be known and address as MRS OREJUPE OYE TEMITOPE REGINA. All former documents remain valid. General public to take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MISS. MARIA FOLASHADE ADEOTI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. BALOGUN MARIA FOLASHADE. All former documents remain valid. UBA, WEMA, FIDELITY, FCMB, SKYE BANK and General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as NWOKEKE RAPHAEL ONYEMUWA, now wish to be known and addressed as . IJEREKWE RAPHAEL ONYEMUWA. All former documents remain valid. ZENITH BANK and General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I Formerly known and addressed as BASSEY MARY QUEEN, now wish to be known and address as EFFIONG BASSEY MARY. All former documents remain valid. General public to take note.

Formerly known and addressed as NDIJEBU OLISADUM GODWIN, now wish to be known and addressed as OLISA AUGUSTINE NDIJEBU. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as EHIJE VICTOR, now wish to be known, called and addressed as NWENE VICTOR. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly Miss. Ubani Roseline Nkwachi now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mrs. Nwokorie Roseline Nkwachi. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

I formerly Miss. Gwamna Silva Dorcas now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mrs. Olowu Silva Dorcas. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known as Kudirat Bukola Omowaire. Now wish to be known and addressed as Kudirat Bukola Olaibi. All former document remain valid. General public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to certify and confirm that ELIZABETH EZEGWU OBINNA and ELIZABETH EZEGWU OBIOMA refers to one and same person now wish to be known and addressed as ELIZABETH EZEGWU OBINNA. All former documents remain valid. General Public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as ELIAS HAPPINESS PATIENCE , now wish to be known and addressed as UJOR HAPPINESS . All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note

CHANGE OF NAME UZOH: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS UZOH IFEOMA FAVOUR now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. NGENE IFEOMA DORIST. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ODII: I, formerly known and addressed as ODII EKENE, now wish to be known and addressed as MATHEW EKENE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

OJELABI: I, formerly known and addressed as OJELABI OLALEKAN ADEBAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as OJELABI OLUWATOSIN SAMSON. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Frank Meshack Kassam, now wish to be known and addressed as Frank Meshack Tenti. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NWAOHA: I, formerly known and addressed as NWAOHA CHIGOZIE .O., now wish to be known and addressed as CHUKWU JOHN CHIGOZIE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that LOVETH ONOBHAMIUKOR is the same person as LOVETH OGBEIDE now wish to be called as MRS LOVETH GARUBA. All former documents remain valid. GTB, ACCESS BANK and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, Oyidiya Shaba and Elizabeth Owoh- Odunsi is the same person as Elizabeth Utah Shaba. All former document bearing of names remains valid. General public place take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHUKWU: I, formerly known and addressed CHUKWU CONFIDENCE .U. now wish to be known and addressed as UKAMAKA UDEH CONFIDENCE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

ANI: I, formerly known and addressed ANI COMFORT ANAYO now wish to be known and addressed as OGBODO COMFORT ANAYO. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

This is to certify and confirm that MISS JULIET IFEOMA ANWUNOBI, and MISS CELESTINA IFEOMA ANWUNOBI refers to one and same person now wish to be known and addressed as MRS CELESTINA IFEOMA NWOBI. All former documents bearing the two (2) names remain valid. General Public please take note.

JATTOH: I, formerly known and addressed as ABRAHAM SMITH JATTOH, now wish to be known, called and addressed as ABRAHAM OSEMEILU. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

AMADI: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AMADI CHARITY, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AKPAN GRACE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as ODUYEMI OLUWATOYIN , now wish to be known and addressed as MCINTOSH OLUWATOYIN OMOLOLA. All documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as ADEGUNLE ADENIKE CAROLINE, now wish to be known and addressed as IYANIWURA ADENIKE CAROLINE. All documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME BAWA: I, formerly known and addressed as BAWA EZEKIEL BATARI, now wish to be known and addressed as HAMZA EZEKIEL SAMAILA. All former documents remain valid. Fidelity Bank and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME UGALI:I, formerly known and addressed as UGALI MICHEL, now wish to be known and addressed as IJAGBEMI MICHEAL. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

JAIYEOBA: I, formerly known and addressed as JAIYEOBA OLUWAYEMISI COMFORT, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OBIENU COMFORT OLUWAYEMISI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Mary Jonathan Mashi now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mary Jonathan. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

I, known and addressed as SANUSI SHAKIRAT OPELOYERU, hereby declare that l am still the same person known and addressed as DABIRI SHAKIRATOPELOYERU. All former documents remain the same. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Igwebuike Chukwumuenya but now wish to be known as IGWEBUEZE Eric. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OTUBA: I, formerly known and addressed OTUBA SANDY OBETEN now wish to be known and addressed as OTUBA SANDYBEST. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I formerly known as MURITALA N. HAMED, now wish to be known and addressed as MURITALA MUHAMMED ARIBISESI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Musa Ajiboye Korede, now wish to be known and addressed as Musa Isaq Olalekan. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Christian Elijah but now wish to be known as Christian Emmanuel. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as OCHIGBO BENARD IDOKO, now wish to be known and addressed as MATHIAS IDOKO. All documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OBETAN DAN ARONG, now wish to be known and addressed as DAN LAZARUS OBETEN. All documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to confirm that Nzube Odira Malizu and Nzube Kelvin Malizu belong to one and the same person. All documents bearing these names to remain valid. General public take note

Formerly known and addressed as Ukpabia Chiamaka Goodness now wish to be known and addressed as Nworah Chiamaka Goodness. All documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MISS. SCHOLARSTICA ASIMA STEPHANIE UMO, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. SCHOLARSTICA ASIMA STEPHANIE OKPO. All documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OBODO: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OBODO EVELYN NGOZI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS EROBE EVELYN NGOZI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Nurudeen Adeezat Iyabo, now wish to be known and addressed as Oriola Adeezat Yetunde. All documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as SEKINAT AGBEKE ABOYARIN, now wish to be known and addressed as SEKINAT AGBEKE RASHEED. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note

CHANGE OF NAME

BOB: I, formerly known and addressed as BOB MARVIN ONUOHA ABBAH, now wish to be known and addressed as ALEXANDER ONUOHA UDABAH. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

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CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Joshua Osiobe Efe, now wish to be known and addressed as Joshua Osiobe. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

WATERDOCTORS WELLNESS GLOBAL IMPACT FOUNDATION

The general public is hereby notified that the above Foundation has Applied to the Corporation Affairs Commission Abuja for Registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. APOSTLE DOCTOR OZIOMA UGOCHUKWU 2. MRS NGOZI OZIOMA 3. JOHNVINE O. OKPANACHI 4. OTOBO LORETTA GLORIA THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To enlighten the public on the health benefit of water. 2. To create awareness on the curative potency of water 3. To use knowledge of water to cure various sicknesses and disease. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street Maitama , Abuja within 28 days of this publication. Signed Apostle Doctor Ozioma Ugochukwu Chairman

CHANGE OF NAME

ADEKUNLE: I, formerly known and addressed as ADEKUNLE OLUWATOSIN OLUWASEYI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as AWESU OLUWATOSIN OLUWASEYI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

IGWEGBE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS IGWEGBE STELLA ONYINYE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AKUNEDOZIOBI STELLA ONYINYE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

UKACHI: I, formerly known and addressed as UKACHI CHIOMA AGATHA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MOSES AGATHA CHIOMA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

That on my other documents, my name reads as OKUNMAHIE EBIUWA QUEEN FELIX. That i am the same person bearing OKUNMAHIE QUEEN FELIX and OKUNMAHIE EBIUWA QUEEN FELIX. That any of my documents bearing the above stated names belongs to me and remains valid. General public and Authorities concerned should take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Onowa Dominic, now wish to be known and addressed as Ebije Sule. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Obamije judith Olohirenuan, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Famous JUDITH Olohirenuan. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

YUSUF: I, formerly known and addressed as YUSUF OLUSOLA ALAKE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as FOLARIN OLUSOLA AYOMIPOSI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that I, Yusuff Muibat O. is one and the same person as Onimole Muibat Bolanle. All former documents bearing the above names are valid. General public please take note.

SAMUEL: I, formerly known and addressed as SAMUEL BLESSING OCHEYAN, now wish to be known, called and addressed as SAMUEL CATHERINE BLESSING. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME ISAH: Formerly known and addressed as ISAH AUYO now wish to be known and addressed as ISAH MUHAMMED SABO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

AKINBUSOLA: I, formerly known and addressed as AKINBUSOLA OLUMIDE OLUSHOLA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as AKINDE EBENEZER OLUSHOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Yakubu Mustapha, now wish to be known and addressed as Bappa Lawan. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

This is to confirm that Sunday Bright is the same person as Sunday Austin. All former document bearing of names remains valid. General public place take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OYEMINA: I, formerly known and addressed as OYEMINA EGHOSA GHOSA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OMOTAYO GHOSA JULIANA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME ADEYEMO: Formerly known and addressed as ADEYEMO TAJUDEEN ADEBISI now wish to be known and addressed as AKANNI TAJUDEEN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME EMEKA: Formerly known and addressed as EMEKA KENNETH DAMIAN now wish to be known and addressed as EMEKA KENNETH EZEUDE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as ONIGBINDE PETER OYEMOMI. now wish to be known and addressed as ONIGBINDE CLEMENT OLUFEMI. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Mr Oigbochie Murphy Osifo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mr Famour Murphy Osifo . All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME PRECIOUS: Formerly known and addressed as PRECIOUS CHUKWU ELUM now wish to be known and addressed as PHILOMINA ELUM. All former documents remain valid. General public take note. CHANGE OF NAME NIMOTA: Formerly known and addressed as NIMOTA JIMOH now wish to be known and addressed as NIMOTA ISMAILA IDERA . All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Watford:

Okagbare beats Bolt to Guinness World record 47

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

I don’t want to be sacked. I am being honest because a sack would destroy all that I have spent my career building –Manchester United Manager, Louis van Gaal

‘Ighalo will leave at season end’

Everest Onyewuchi WITH AGENCY REPORT

oach Quique Sanchez Flores has declared that his English Premier League top scorer, Nigeria’s Odion Ighalo, whose goals have caught the attention of bigger clubs, will stay at Watford at least until the end of the season. Ighalo showcased his finishing prowess with two goals in Watford’s 3-0 win over Liverpool in the EPL last Sunday, taking his tally this season to 12. His flourishing partnership up front with captain Troy Deeney, who has scored five goals in his last six league games, have propelled last season’s pro-

moted side up to seventh place. “I think Ighalo is completely clever, he chose five months ago the option to stay here with Watford,” Sanchez told British media. The 26-year-old Nigerian striker joined Watford on a free transfer in July 2014 from Italian outfit, Udinese, after spending a few seasons on loan with Granada in Spain. “It’s very clever, he knew perfectly it was the best option for him. I think he’ll finish the season with Watford, after that anybody knows,” manager Sanchez added. This is Odion’s story as told by MailOnline: As a boy, Odion Ighalo and his Olodi Warriors team mates would hit the deck when they heard gun fire

during training. The bullets didn’t know the difference between the young footballers and the drug dealers selling their narcotics on a corner of the pitch, who the police were targeting. Growing up in the Ajegunle ghetto, at the heart of Lagos, life can be like that. Watford’s in-form striker, Ighalo, a devout Christian, thanks God at every opportunity. It is understandable when you consider the miracle of his journey. The pitch where he would train and play matches as a child is called the ‘Maracana’ by locals. The field in the Tolu area of the community is one of the most popular places in Ajegunle.

Taribo West, formerly of Inter and AC Milan, and Emmanuel Amuneke, who played for Barcelona, graced it in their day. At the nearby Navy Playground, beside Boundary market, Nwankwo Kanu and Finidi George were spotted playing in the past. Ajegunle has become known as the place that turns filth into gold...Out of its depths have emerged footballers who would go on to make waves in Europe. Ighalo is the latest. His mother, Martina, worked day and night selling water and soft drinks to save up for his first pair of boots. He chose a pair of adidas Copa Mundials, displaying a touch of class, even back then, which he has carried into the Premier League this season.

Sports

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Blatter, Platini banned for 8 years S

uspended FIFA President, Sepp Blatter and also suspended UEFA head, Michel Platini, have been banned from all football-related activities for eight years with immediate effect. The FIFA Independent Ethics Committee chaired by Mr. HansJoachim Eckert yesterday handed out the bans. The pair have been punished for breaches surrounding a “disloyal payment” of CHF 2 million (£1.3 million/$2.1 million/€1.8 million) made by Blatter to Platini in February 2011. Both, however, claimed the payment was honouring an agreement made in 1998 for work carried out between that year and 2002, when Platini worked as technical adviser for Blatter. Ethics judges ruled that Blatter broke rules on conflicts of interest, breach of loyalty and offering gifts,

while Platini breached regulations on conflict of interest and loyalty. Blatter has been fined CHF 50,000 (£33,700/$50,200/€46,200) and Platini CHF 80,000 (£53,900/$80,400/€74,000). “Mr Blatter, in his position as President of FIFA, authorised the payment to Mr. Platini which had no legal basis in the written agreement signed between both officials on 25 August 1999,” said FIFA’s Ethics Committee in a statement. “Neither in his written statement nor in his personal hearing was Mr. Blatter able to demonstrate another legal basis for this payment. The 60-year-old is taking the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), while Blatter’s spokesman has confirmed the 79-year-old will appeal. Speaking at a news conference in Zurich yesterday, a defiant Blatter

L-R: The CEO of First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Ladi Balogun; Lagos State Special Adviser for Sports, Mr. Deji Tinubu; Liaison Officer, Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports, Lagos State, Mrs. Tayo Oreweme, and President, Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Pinnick, with the victorious beach soccer team of Cote d’Ivoire during the final of the COPA Lagos Beach Soccer tournament in Lagos last Sunday

said, “I am suspended eight years but I will fight for me and I will fight for FIFA. “I am suspended eight years, for what?” The Swiss added, “Mr. Platini and myself were asked separately about this since the first day when this happened; it was in a meeting here in July in Zurich. “We were separated, we couldn’t speak together and we have given the same answer. But now (they say) it is not relevant, you know what means? That means that we are two liars - he is and I am a liar. “This is not correct. So therefore with my lawyer, I will use the sporting justice now to go forward. We go immediately once again to the appeal committee, to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.”

Pitch Awards 2015 gets date

he annual, showpiece Nigeria Pitch Awards, which is endorsed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), will take place in the city of Kaduna on March 23, 2016. Chief Executive Officer of Matchmakers Consult International, Shina Phillips, organisers of the Pitch awards, said yesterday that the event will come up hours after the Nigeria, Egypt 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match taking place same day at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium. “We want to assure that voting for the prestigious Nigeria Pitch Awards would begin before the Christmas break, and that all other necessary arrangements have been put

in place to ensure that the Awards process and everything around it remains transparent and credible, as always. General Secretary of the NFF, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, expressed the federation’s continued support for the awards, saying that the NFF was satisfied with the organisation of previous editions of the Nigeria Pitch Awards and that the Awards have been motivating Nigerian players to better performances around the globe. Also speaking on the Awards process, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Managing Partner of SIAO – the body charged with collating and verifying the votes, confirmed that voting will begin next week and would last for one month.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sports

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Mercyjacob_26@yahoo.com Tel: 08063056537

Okagbare beats Bolt to Guinness World record

frican track queen, Blessing Okagbare, has beaten the record set by Jamaican star, Usain Bolt, to enter the Guinness World Records for 2016. She made it to the 2016 Guinness World record feat as the athlete with the most diamond league appearances. Okagbare participated in 38 Diamond League events higher than any other athlete in the world, according to the records. “Multi-discipline athlete, Blessing Okagbare, from Nigeria participated at 38 Diamond League events between July 3, 2010 and September

5, 2014. Okagbare’s specialties are the 100m and 200m sprints and long jump,” the book said. The IAAF Diamond League is an annual series of track and field meetings held from 2010 till date and billed to hold again in London by 2016. The competition was designed to replace the IAAF Golden League, which held from 1998 to 2010. Though Bolt was awarded IAAF world athlete of the year in 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2013, he is yet t to have as much appearances as the multi-talented Nigerian. Okagbare holds the wom-

en’s 100 metres Commonwealth Games record for the fastest time at 10.85 seconds. She also has the 100 metres best of 10.79 as the African best in the female category of the race, while winning the African 100m and long jump event in 2010. In July, Dutch athlete, Dafne Schippers, at 10.92s, beat Okagbare - who clocked 10.98s - to the IAAF Diamond League trophy. Bolt has however won many other Guinness world records as the fastest man on earth. She is regarded as one of the best athletes to have come out of Africa that specialises in long jump and short sprint.

Embrace sports, Ahmadu tells Nigerians

omptroller of Nigeria Immigration Service Lagos State Command, Mrs. Justina Aladi Ahmadu, has urged Nigerians to engage in regular exercise as a way to keep fit and healthy. Ahmadu said this during the command’s monthly exercise session as well as to mark the end of the year. “Regular exercise is part of our monthly schedules in order to keep the officers fit and healthy. We have a gym where officers can go every morning to exercise themselves. There is need for every Nigerian to embrace regular exercise in order to reduce the rate of hospital patronage. “It is sad that some people wait until they are sick or overweight before they begin

Okagbare

World bits… Diack confesses asking Russia for €1.5m

ormer International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) President, Lamine Diack, has reportedly admitted to French police he asked Russia for 1.5 million (£1.1 million/$1.6 million) to help him mount a political campaign in his native Senegal. France’s National Office for Financial Prosecutions is currently investigating Diack, who stepped down as IAAF President last August when he was succeeded by Britain’s Sebastian Coe. The police suspect Diack of

taking the money to help coverup positive drugs tests involving Russian athletes. French newspaper Le Monde in a report last Friday, claimed it had obtained transcripts of Diack’s interviews with police where he admitted to having spoken with former All-Russia Athletics Federation (ARAF) President and IAAF Treasurer, Valentin Balakhnichev, in 2011 about needing money. Diack wanted to finance opposition against Senegal’s thenPresident, Abdoulaye Wade.

Bolt and IAAF ‘horror show’

J Insert: Ahmadu with exercising immigration officers

to engage in exercise. From experience, a-30-minutes walk everyday is good exercise,” Ahmadu said. Speaking further she said the Immigration officers from the Lagos State Command have won laurels for the country in sporting events “

“Our command Chief Immigration Assistant, Adesoji Adebowale, led Nigerian athletes with special needs to the last 11th All Africa Games in Congo Brazzaville where the team won 16 medals, including four gold, five silver and six bronze in the sprint.

Star Quote…

I look at myself as the ‘Batman’ of track a vigilante. You may not like me, but I’m needed

Justin Gatlin

amaican sprint superstar Usain Bolt shone at the Beijing world championships, but athletics was later mired in a shocking dopinglinked corruption scandal that plunged the Olympics’ number one sport into crisis. Bolt bagged an unprecedented fifth treble gold medal haul at a global championship in the Chinese capital in August, suitably in the same Bird’s Nest stadium where his career took off in the 2008 Olympics. But the towering Jamaican’s feats were overshadowed

by revelations that threw track and field’s world governing body, the IAAF, into turmoil. At the same Beijing world champs where Bolt shone, former British double 1500m Olympic champions, Sebastian Coe, beat Sergey Bubka in a vote to take over from Lamine Diack as IAAF president. No sooner was Coe installed than Diack was revealed to have accepted bribes worth up to one million euros to allow doped Russian athletes to compete. A “horror show”, in Coe’s words.

Whistle-blowing couple insist on banning Russia from Rio Olympics

embers of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Council voted 22-1 to ban Russia after revelations of state-sponsored doping were revealed in an explosive report by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Independent Commission last month.

No time-frame has been revealed for their reinstatement, although the ban will almost certainly not be lifted before the World Indoor Championships in Portland, United States next March, as no findings are expected to be reported by the IAAF inspection team until after the Championships on March 27.

WORLD RECORD

Mostmarathon piercingsdribbling in a lifetime Fastest two (female) basketballs

N150

Vol. 05 No. 1268 Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Since first receiving a skin piercing in January 1997, Elaine Davidson (Brazil/UK) has been pierced a total of 4,225 times as of 8 June 2006.

Towards a holistic approach to IGR and taxation drive O n the back of recent economic woes that have befallen governments in Nigeria, several state governors seem to have woken up to the need to increase, improve or, for some, establish internally generated revenue (IGR) and taxation bases in their territories. In most cases, these erstwhile profligate and corrupt politicians are speaking through both sides of their mouths because they either do not know what they are talking about or they are playing up to the gallery to cover past misdeeds. In saner countries, where decent politics and good governance have been entrenched, IGR and taxations are no longer issues; they are normal governance procedures.

Guest Columnist

Akintokunbo A. Adejumo

The leaders, who are elected, do not need to chase after IGR and taxes; these are already in place to support them in delivering the goods to their people. And the people from who these are collected are assured that whatever is collected from their salaries, business profits and other incomes will be used altruistically and suitably for their benefit. These two interconnecting facts do not exist in Nigeria. People, perhaps understandably, do not want to pay taxes and contribute to IGR because of the ingrained perception that such money extorted from them will disappear into the rulers’ pockets to fuel inordinate wealthy lifestyles, and even worse, to oppress them. In fact, we see the evidence every day in the way our elected and appointed officials behave in public, internally and in the wider world. This appears a dilemma of our own creation from which there seems, something of “a Catch-22 situation”. When the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the Action Group developed Ikeja, Ilupeju and other industrial and commercial estates, the tax regime was initially low. Lagos State is now the biggest beneficiary of Awolowo’s foresight and investment. The industries and commercial concerns are tied in already. So Lagos State could impose stricter tax regimes. Furthermore, development initiatives are not about just the federal allocations or IGR. It is about developing the human capital through applicable education, skills development, providing basic infrastructure; portable water, electricity, transportation,

THE PROBLEM IS THAT OUR POLITICIANS NEVER THINK OF LEGACY BUILDING.

THEY ARE VERY MYOPIC… roads, telecommunications and in these says the Internet. Any government not addressing these developmental initiatives is a failure. Any government not providing good education to the youths is a disaster, no matter how big the IGR. Are the state governments providing for the health and welfare of their people? The evidence show there is lack of basic infrastructure; lack of portable water, health facilities; lack of sewage facilities etc, in most parts and indeed the rural parts of most states in Nigeria. We need to be objective rather than defend ineptitude. None of the governors or public officers in these states would send their children to their public schools, including the universities; and as we often see, they and members of their families will not use the state-built hospitals for medical care. A good and poignant example is that of former Akwa Ibom State governor, Godswill Akpabio, now a senator, who had claimed and shouted to the rooftops during his tenure as governor that he had built a “worldclass hospital” only to be flown abroad for treatment of minor injuries he sustained, when he was involved in a car accident in Abuja a few months ago. How do we explain this incongruity and hypocrisy? The problem is that our politicians never

think of legacy building. They are very myopic, and do not see beyond their noses; many are beclouded by greed, self-interest and thievery. They want it NOW, during their tenure, mainly because of the profit in kickbacks and bribes and the exaggerated glory that will come to them during their tenure only. “What do I care about the next government or the next generation?” is their thought. That is one of the main reasons why the development of our industrial, infrastructure, investment and commercial bases are so poor. Our leaders make no attempt to leave some legacies behind; no continuity of purpose and governance. Even in the same political party, a new incoming governor or local government chairman wants to start afresh, just to make his own money and empower a few family members and friends he/she proceeds to dismantle and discard the little that his predecessor managed to do. It is very sad, this phenomenon. With dearth of ingenuity and resourcefulness from our so called leaders, it is no wonder most states are in distress in Nigeria, going begging, cap in hand for the federal bailout funds from Abuja. Fiscal federalism is an unachievable dream in our times, if the mindset of both rulers and the ruled stay primordial and corrupt, because the revenue allocation formula in Nigeria inevitably encourages parasitic governance, where states become relaxed and endlessly expectant of the monthly ritual of allocation from the federal government. According to Dare Arowolo, a lecturer in the Department of Political Science and Public Administration, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba, Ondo State, the implication of this is that while the allocation formula limits the capacity of states to provide public goods needed to promote and sustain governance, it also predates on the IGR of each state. Adejumo wrote via akinadejum@aol. com

Sport Extra

ep Guardiola has already chosen his next club after telling Bayern Munich of his decision to leave at their Christmas party, according to chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. Already, former Chelsea boss, Carlo Ancelotti, 56, has

Where is Pep Guardiola going? signed a three-year deal to replace Guardiola at Bayern. According to BBC Sport, Bayern confirmed Guardiola’s departure at the end of this season last Sunday. The former Barcelona

manager, 44, has been linked with Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal. “I think I know where he is going - but I want to leave the announcement to him or

his new employer,” said the Bayern CEO. He added that he holds no ill feeling towards the Spaniard. “He came over to me two weeks ago at our Christmas

party and told me that he was looking for a new challenge,” Rummenigge told German newspaper, Bild. “He was almost apologetic. I’m not disappointed in him.”

Guardiola

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