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Italian, Indian oil giants, others bid for Nigeria’s crude CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

he new wave of openness and transparency pervading the operations of

Kachikwu

Vol. 5 N0. 1231

the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, received fresh impetus yesterday with the public harvesting of 278 bids submitted by indig-

Wednesday, October 28 , 2015

enous and foreign firms seeking to secure contract for the sale and purchase of the 26 Nigerian crude oil grades on offer. The process, which was CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

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Senate screens 6 additional ministerial nominees P.6

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World Bank raises alarm over Nigeria’s economy …ranks nation 169th globally

TOLA AKINMUTIMI

espite sustained efforts by the Federal Government to improve Nigeria’s business environment, indications showed that most of the efforts had not impacted positively on the nation’s business climate with its ranking at 169th position among 189 countries assessed on economic reforms implementation. The ‘Doing Business 2016: Measuring Regulatory Quality and Effi-

Mauritius, Uganda, Benin, Senegal among best

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Ex-militants want Kuku probed over missing N7.5bn P.5

Buhari, NGF congratulate new Ooni, seek support for peace, progress P.4

L-R: President Muhammadu Buhari; Permanent Secretary, State House, Mr. Nebolisa Emordi; Permanent Secretary FCT, Mr. John Chukwu and Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase, during departure of the president for the 3rd Indo-African Summit in New Delhi, India, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, yesterday.

Insurgency: FG to spend N233bn to reconstruct North East NAF destroys terrorists’ fuel, munitions dump in Sambisa

Reps ask govt to declare emergency on unemployment

P.12 P.6

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Wednesday, October 28 , 2015

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World Bank raises alarm over Nigeria’s economy CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

ciency’ report published yesterday by the World Bank showed that Nigeria moved just a point higher than the 2015 position of 170th in the global rankings. The country also scored poorly in Distance to Frontier assessment index, scoring 44.69 per

cent in 2016 as against the 43.56 per cent in 2015. During the period under review, the country was reported to have carried out two reforms more than it did last year. Of the 35 countries covered by the report in SubSaharan Africa, Nigeria came 25th, with Mauritius, Uganda, Kenya,

Mauritania, Benin and Senegal ranking among the top best improvers. While the World Bank Group’s annual ease of doing business measurement noted that developing economies quickened the pace of their business reforms during the last 12 months to make it easier for local businesses to

start and operate, the ‘Doing Business 2016: Measuring Regulatory Quality and Efficiency’ found that 85 developing economies implemented 169 business reforms during the past year, compared with 154 reforms the previous year. It also reported that high-income economies

carried out an additional 62 reforms, bringing the total for the past year to 231 reforms in 122 economies around the world. The report also showed that majority of the new reforms during the past year were designed to improve the efficiency of regulations, by reducing their cost and complexity,

L-R: UNFPA Country Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Radtizai Ndhlovu; Director-General, National Emergency Management Agency, Alhaji Muhammad Sidi; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima, during the Northeast Humanitarian Multi Stakeholders Meeting in Maiduguri, Borno State, yesterday.

Italian, Indian oil giants, others bid for Nigeria’s crude CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

covered live by all major television networks in the country had in attendance representatives of the bidding companies with officials of the Bureau of Public Procurement, BPP; Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR; Nigerian Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative, NEITI; Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NDCMB as well as members of the civil society attending as independent assessors. Speaking at the flag-off of the event, Group Managing Director of NNPC, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, stated that the essence of the public bid process was to consolidate on the new promise of setting a new

agenda for the corporation anchored on the tenets of transparency and efficiency in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s agenda for the oil and gas industry. “The essence is to ensure that nobody needs to call me personally as Ibe Kachikwu for him to get crude allocation. So, you can imagine the burden it takes off my shoulders. It means a good amount of my time will now go into other relevant areas of operation where the country needs me most,” Kachikwu said. Throwing more light on the process, Mallam Mele Kyari, Group General Manager, Crude Oil Marketing Division of NNPC, said that with the new

measure put in place, the incidence of brief case companies and hawking of Nigerian crude would become a thing of the past. “The idea is to select companies that are credible, capable with track record and would not go to hawk our crude. We are going to get as close as possible to the end users of our crude. What this means is that we are going to eliminate all those transactions that are not necessary,” Mallam Kyari stated. Representative of the DPR, Mrs. Folashade Odunuga, commended NNPC for the transparent manner it conducted the bid process noting that as the regulator of the industry, the DPR was

impressed with the new wave of transparency sweeping across the value chain of the corporation. The contract for the engagement of qualified and reputable companies for the sale and purchase of Nigerian Crude Oil grades is conducted in consonance and in pursuance of the provisions of the Public Procurement Act 2007 and the BPP guidelines. As part of the pre-qualification requirements, interested companies were expected to demonstrate the possession of minimum annual turnover of $750m and net worth of at least $300m, ability to establish an irrevocable Letter of Credit for the payment of any allocated

Crude Oil subject to the contract terms as well as the ability to pay an initial deposit of $2.5m representing the first lifting deposit upon signing of the contract agreement among other requirements. The 26 grade of Nigerian Crude Oil on offer include: Bonny Light, Forcados Blend, EA Blend, Bonga, Qua Iboe Light, Yoho Blend, Erha and Escravos Light. Others are; Pennington Light, Agbami, Brass Blend, Abo, Oyo, Okono Blend, Amenam Blend, Akpo Condensate and Usan. The rest include: Atam Blend, Okwori, Okoro, Ima, Ukpokiti, Obe, Okwuibome, Ebok and Asaratoru.

with the largest number of improvements made in the area of Starting a Business, which measures how long it takes to obtain a permit for starting a business and its associated processing costs. In addition, it showed that a total of 45 economies, 33 of which were developing economies, undertook reforms to make it easier for entrepreneurs to start a business. The Bank also noted that efforts to strengthen legal institutions and frameworks were less common, with 66 reforms implemented in 53 economies during the past year, adding that the largest number of such reforms were carried out in the area of Getting Credit, with 32 improvements, of which nearly half were undertaken in Sub-Saharan Africa. The World Bank Group’s annual ease of doing business measurement indicated that Sub-Saharan Africa economies continued to implement reforms to improve the business climate for domestic entrepreneurs, with members of the Organisation for the Harmonization of Business Law in Africa, OHADA, particularly active during the past year. According to the report, out of the 69 reforms carried out in 35 economies in Sub-Saharan Africa, 14 of the OHADA’s 17 member countries implemented 29 reforms. This is even as the report showed that reforms implemented in Sub-Saharan Africa accounted for about 30 per cent of the 231 reforms implemented worldwide during the past year. The Breton Woods institution disclosed further that the region also boasted half of the world’s top 10 improvers, that is, countries that implemented at least three reforms and moved up on the global rankings scale. Amongst the improvers in the continent are Uganda, Kenya, Mauritania, Benin and Senegal. The report noted further that the region stood out in implementing reCONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

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Wednesday, October 28, 2015

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L-R: Representative of the chairman, FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange, Mr. Jubril Aku; Country Manager, International Finance Corporation in Nigeria, Mrs. Eme Essien Lore; representative of Director-General, Security and Exchange Commission, Mr. Zakawamu Garuba and Managing Director, FMDQ OTC Plc, Mr. Bola Onodele Koko, during the FMDQ Nigeria Debt Capital Markets Workshop in Lagos, yesterday.

L-R: Brand Manager, STAR Lager NB Plc, Obabiyi Fagade; TV Host, Mozez Praiz and Senior Brand Manager, Star Lager NB Plc, Ita Bassey, during the Star Super Fans Football Game Show Season Two episodes.

L-R: NAPTIP Consultant, Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN); Director-General, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba and Dutch National Raporteur on Trafficking in Human Beings, Ms. Corrina Dettmaijar, during a one day training workshop for judges, in Abuja, yesterday.

L-R: Assistant Secretary General, Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), Alhaji Alkali Abubakar; Deputy President, NIQS, Mrs. Mercy Iyortyer and Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Yusuf Lasun, during the visit by NIQS to the Deputy Speaker, at the National Assembly, Abuja, yesterday.

National News Obiora Ifoh, Rotimi Fadeyi and Boladale Bamigbola

oni-designate, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, will today arrive in Ile-Ife to begin installation rites as demanded by tradition. Confirming his arrival, the Obadio of Ife and head of Isoro cult to which the Ooni belongs, Oba Olajide Ifaloba, told newsmen late yesterday that all arrangements had been concluded to receive him at the Ife end of the Ife/Ibadan Expressway. Ifaloba said tradition demands that an Ooni-designate must enter Ile-Ife the day time after his name had been announced, adding that there would be no curfew during the period. Sources around Ile Oodua, Ooniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s palace, informed our correspondent that some rites that would herald the entrance of an Ooni-designate into Ile-Ife have been concluded already. Although the Oba Isoro, Oba Eluyele Olawenu, the

Ooni-designate arrives Ife today Buhari, NGF congratulate new monarch

Owa Eredumi of Ile-Ife, who according to the tradition handles the installation rites of the monarch, in a chat with newsmen, said only Ifa could determine the best time for him to enter the town. Another informed source in Ife said the monarch had already left Lagos for Ibadan late yesterday, adding that the kingmakers have handed over further actions on the matter to Obadio, the head of Isoro cult. According to the tradition of Ile Ife, the Ooni belongs to Isoro Cult and manages its affairs with the help of Obadio, the head of all deities in the town. It was learnt that members of the Isoro cult held a crucial meeting to determine the form the installation rites would take, bearing in mind the approaching Olojo Festival.

In a paid announcement aired by an Ile Ife-based private radio station, Crown Fm, monitored in Osogbo, the palace urged all residents to dress well to receive Oba Ogunwusi. The announcement indicated that market and shops must remain closed during the period as a mark of honour for the monarch Atmosphere in the ancient town of Ife remains calm with heavy security presence noticed in strategic areas of the town. At the family house of the Oshinkola Ruling House, there was a police van parked with some armed policemen. Commenting on the presence of the security men in the area, Sooko Adegbaju Adeyinka, said the family has been under siege even before the announcement of new monarch. Meanwhile, President

Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated Prince Ogunwusi on his emergence as the 51st Ooni of Ife and successor to the late Oba Okunade Sijuwade. A statement issued yesterday by the special adviser to the President on media and publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said Buhari rejoices with Adeyeye on his nomination as Ooni by the kingmakers of Ife after a keenly contested but peaceful selection process, and confirmation by Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State. As he prepares to begin the rites of ascension to the revered throne of his great ancestors, Buhari urged the Ooni-designate to commit himself to carrying all his subjects along to a new era of peace, stability and progress in Ife, Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.

The President called on Adeyeye to be prepared to put his new position as Ooni and principal custodian of the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Yoruba to good use in the service of his people and the country. Buhari also urged the Ooni-designate to dedicate himself to building on, and surpassing the worthy legacies of his much-acclaimed predecessor, Oba Sijuwade, and work with government and other traditional rulers across the country to foster greater harmony, peaceful co-existence and faster socio-economic development of his people and all Nigerians. As Adeyeye ascends the grand throne of the Ooni of Ife, the President prayed God to grant him the immense wisdom and courage he would require to oversee further progress and greater prosper-

ity for his people. He wished the new Ooni a long and highly successful reign in the service of his people and country. Similarly, the Nigeria Governors` Forum, NGF, has congratulated Governor Rauf Aregbesola and the people of Osun state on the emergence of Ogunwusi as the new Ooni. Governor Abdulaziz Abubakar Yari of Zamfara State and chairman of the forum, urged the incoming monarch to use his position to further solidify the role of the Yoruba people in ensuring peace and development in the country as he mounts the exalted throne. Yari charged the new Ooni to use his position to enhance the bond of unity that exists among the Yorubas and other traditional rulers in the western region and the country generally.

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Wednesday, October 28 , 2015

Ex-militants want Kuku probed over missing N7.5bn OSAHON JULIUS YENAGOA

ggrieved ex-militants from three states of Delta, Rivers and Bayelsa have sent a protest letter to President Muhammadu Buhari to investigate the alleged diversion of an estimated N7.5bn by former chairman of the Federal Government Amnesty Implementation Committees, Kingsley Kuku. The ex-militants said though allowances were paid to the over 30,000 verified beneficiaries of the Amnesty programme, the Amnesty Implementation Committee under the chairmanship of Kuku withheld the agreed sum of N.5m approved by late President Musa Yar’Adua for accommodation and vehicle allowances each year. In the protest letter to President Buhari, Comrade John Government from Delta State, who signed on behalf of the militants, argued that investigation into the missing N7.5bn was necessary to avoid a disguised attempt to cover it up. According to the exmilitants, the late President Yar’Adua had at the beginning of the Amnesty deal approved monies for the ex-militants to care for accommodation and cars and with a proviso that if such money was not paid

in lump sum, N500,000 be paid every year to cater for the issues of accommodation and car. “But since the start of the Amnesty programme, the chairmen of the Implementation Committee have refused to pay. They paid a sum of N150,000 last year out of the N500,000. What we are asking is why have they refused to pay? Were the monies not budgeted for by the National Assembly? Who stole our money? We need answers,” he said. According to the statement, though the exmilitants commended the recent declaration by the federal government through the Chairman of the Amnesty Implementation Committee, Brig. Gen. Paul Boroh, that they are not owing exmilitants in the region, the issues of exclusion, illegal and selfish allocation of slots and diversion of funds meant for the upkeep and welfare of exmilitants under the past coordinators should be investigated. “President Buhari should know that the repeated threats by some exmilitants to return to the creeks may have been occasioned by the injustice committed against them under past chairmen of the Amnesty Implementation Committee. We are calling for an open investigation into the various

cases of illegality and fund diversions,” the statement added. Meanwhile, the last may not have been heard over the suit filed by aggrieved ex-militants against the federal government and the Amnesty office over their exclusion from the exercise. A Federal High Court sitting in Yenagoa yesterday issued a 14 days ultimatum to the federal government and the Amnesty Implementation Committee to respond to the suit. Hearing in the suit filed by militants from Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers had continued in Yenagoa, with

the court giving the government and the Amnesty office to respond within 14 days. The aggrieved ex-militants, Asenekir Oyile, Angiama-Owei Oyindoubra, John Government, John Sawyer, Trydy Okpeke, Dollar Motor, Selebi Ayowei, Bobra Angese, Henry Gomeromo and Ekerebi Ombe in their suit claimed that the Amnesty committee erred by refusing to include them in the Amnesty programme after series of resolutions from meetings with former National Security Advisers to President Goodluck Jonathan, late Gen.

Owei Azazi and Col. Dasuki Sambo respectively. The ex-militants in the suit, numbered FHC/ YNG/CS/102/2013, declared that they were former militants that had accepted Amnesty under the third phase and surrendered their weapons to the federal government through the Amnesty Office in 2011 under the Peace Initiative. At yesterday’s sitting presided over by Justice H.A. Nganjiwa, the court ruled in favour of the aggrieved militants on the plea for an extension of time on the notice to file counter motions against

the preliminary objections filed by the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and the office of the Amnesty Implementation Committee. Justice Nganjiwa, after hearing the submissions of the counsel to the exmilitants, K.O. Seriaki, on the two separate motions in response to the preliminary objections, ordered that the federal government and the Amnesty Office were given 14 days ultimatum to respond to the addresses filed by the plaintiff. The judge, however, adjourned further hearing till November 10th, 2015.

Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Environment, Hon. Obinna Chidoka (middle) and members of the FRSC Bicycle Club, during a riding-to-create awareness for the safety of the environment, at the National Assembly in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Biafra Republic: Itsekiri World Bank raises alarm over Nigeria’s economy disowns secessionist CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 globally.”

ELO OGWARA WARRI

ollowing calls for the creation of a Biafra Republic by youths in South Eastern Nigeria, the Itsekiri ethnic nationality in Delta State has said it believes in one Nigeria. In a statement signed by Pa Johnson Ayomike and Edward Ekpoko, the respective chairman and secretary of Itsekiri Leaders of Thought, ILOT, the Itsekiri nation separated itself from the secessionists, pledging its loyalty to the unity of Nigeria. “The Itsekiri leaders of thought wishes to

disassociate the Itsekiri ethnic nationality of Warri, Delta State, from the call for the creation of a Biafra Republic out of Nigeria as demanded by some youths of Igbo extraction from South East,” the statement read. Recalling Biafran forces’ invasion in 1967 and the events that followed, the ILOT noted that the Itsekiri nation had since reached a decision never to allow such invasion on their land again. The elite Warri club further stressed that it would do everything possible to ensure that the country remains one entity.

forms under the Getting Credit indicator, adding that of the 32 reforms made globally, 14 were carried out in Sub-Saharan Africa, with Kenya and Uganda making significant progress. Commenting on the report findings, Rita Ramalho, Manager of the Doing Business project, noted that “despite great improvements, governments in Sub-Saharan Africa will need to continue working on closing the gap in many key areas that impact the ease of doing business, especially increasing access to reliable electricity and providing effective commercial dispute resolution – two areas where the region scores the lowest

Clarifying further, the bank reported that on Getting Electricity, it required an average of 130 days for an entrepreneur to get a new electricity connection and, once connected, customers experience frequent outages lasting almost 700 hours per year, thereby making Sub-Saharan Africa the region with the highest duration of outages globally. This is even as the region was also ranked poorly in the areas of Trading Across Borders and Registering Property. At the continental level, Mauritius was reported to rank best in the region, with a global ranking of 32, performing particularly well in

the areas of Paying Taxes and Enforcing Contracts. It takes only 152 hours for entrepreneurs to pay taxes in the country, compared to 261 hours globally. The bank stated further: “Rwanda has the next best ranking in the region, with a global ranking of 62. Rwanda also implemented the highest number of reforms in the region, with six reforms carried out in the past year. The country ranks second in the world on the Getting Credit indicator and 12th in the world on the Registering Property indicator. “Ten years ago, an entrepreneur in Rwanda took 370 days to transfer property. Now, it takes 32 days which is less than in Germany. Bo-

tswana, with a global ranking of 72, South Africa (73), and Seychelles (95) are also among the better ranked economies in Sub-Saharan Africa. “However, Kenya and Uganda experienced significant increases in their rankings, with Kenya moving up to 108 this year, followed by Uganda, which has moved up to 122,” it added. It attributed the improvements in Kenya primarily to four reforms implemented by the country in the areas of Starting a Business, Getting Electricity, Registering Property, and Getting Credit, while Uganda implemented reforms in the areas of Starting a Business, Getting Electricity and Getting Credit.

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Wednesday, October 28, 2015

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Senate grills 6 additional ministerial nominees George Oji Abuja

he Senate yesterday screened another batch of six ministerial nominees, leaving a balance of five more candidates to go. Those screened were Adewole Isaac Folorunso, Hon. Bawa Bwari, Mr. Godfrey Onyeama, Zainab Ahmed, Mansur Mohammed Dan Ali and Pastor Usani Usani Uguru.

Africa ready to support Silk Road Initiative –Aliyu

he possibility of a win-win relationship in the economic future of Nigeria-China relations of the 21st century was re-emphasised penultimate Thursday, October 15, in far away Beijing, capital of the People’s Republic of China, during a special three days conference on the objective of the “Silk Road” project for a dynamic Afro-Asian relationship, which held between Wednesday, October 14, and Thursday, October 16, 2015. The summit, which held under the auspices of Inter national Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) at her 25th Standing Committee Meeting in Beijing, is a re-awakening process for major gover nments and political parties who drive the socio-economic policies in relevant regions of the world. The conference, which was themed “New Vision of the Silk Road: Action for Common Development” explored issues of political leadership, economic integration, cultural bond and new impetus for emerging economies, which are all ingredients of a successful regional economic development. The event brought to the fore once more, the role of China as an emerging world power in Afro-Asian diplomacy and that of Nigeria as the center-piece of a prosperous Afro-Asian economic revival.

However, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, senators insisted and elicited an apology from one of the ministerial nominees, Pastor Usani Uguru, over unsavory remarks against the party. Trouble for the pastor began while responding to questions from one of the senators. The senator had made reference to the nominee’s networking days with some senators, including Suleiman Nazif (Bauchi Central) and Rabiu Kwakwanso sometime in 2009, when someone remarked from the corners, “under PDP.” The pastor had to cut short his presentation and said: “God forbid, God forbid,” twice in response to the side comment before returning to his presentation. The derogatory remarks by the pastor caused spontaneous uproar among the PDP senators. Senate Minority Leader, Godswill Akpabio, rising on a point of order and citing order 14(a) of the standing rules on privileges, reminded the nominee that

he served as a commissioner in the Copyrights Commission under PDP government and demanded that the candidate apologise for his remarks. The nominee had no choice but to tender an unreserved apology to the PDP senators. But, the apology did not appear to appease the PDP

senators as they made efforts to stall his screening. Rising under order 120 of the senate standing order, Senator Enyinnya Abaribe (Abia South) demanded to know whether the nominee had submitted his assets declaration form before the screening as required by the senate rule. Sensing trouble for the

nominee, Senate President, Bukola Saraki had to intervene to assure Abaribe that the senate was in receipt of the said documents and asked Abaribe that he could call for them at the end of the sitting if he was still in doubt. Not done yet, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa (Abia North), rising under order

14(a) of the senate standing rules, raised issues in the curriculum vitae submitted by the nominee. He observed that the documents submitted to the senate showed that all the three tax clearances submitted by the nominee were all dated same day; October 14, 2015.

Midwives under the Midwives Service Scheme, National Primary Health Care Development Agency, protesting non-payment of 13 months allowances in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Reps ask FG to declare emergency on unemployment Ubong Ukpong Abuja

ouse of Representatives, yesterday, asked the Federal government to declare a state of emergency on unemployment in the country. The lawmakers also asked the Nigerian Immigration Service, NIS, to move in immediately, and tighten the noose on foreigners to ensure they are not taking jobs meant for Nigerians in various organisations. The motion, which was brought to the plenary by House Majority Leader, Femi Gbajabiamila, and 78 others, also sought legislative interventions in the ongoing unemployment crisis in Nigeria. The lawmakers noted that the unemployment crisis in the country has reached such an alarming rate as to be of serious concern to all, as various reports put Nigeria’s unemployment rate now at 24 per cent. They said apart from the reports, there were glaring evidence of joblessness in all states of the

federation. The Reps said there is an inextricable nexus between unemployment, corruption, crime, poverty and insecurity. They expressed concern that if this tide is not arrested, it would portend great danger to the welfare of the citizenry as en-

shrined in sections 14 and 16 of the 1999 constitution. The House presided over by Deputy Speaker Sulaiman Lasun, resolved amongst other things, that a state of emergency be declared on unemployment as sought in the prayers. It also resolved that

urgent steps be taken to amend the Immigration Act to provide stiffer punishment for violations of immigration laws, including employment of undocumented aliens and to tighten all other relevant sections of the Act with a view to protecting Nigerian workers.

The NIS was also asked to immediately, commence paying unscheduled visits to organisations employing foreigners to ensure that they comply with rules and that foreigners employed possess the requisite qualifications and are not doing jobs meant for Nigerians.

Saraki’s wife calls for empowerment of women, girls

...says true development starts from home

ife of the Senate President, Mrs. Toyin Saraki, has canvassed the need to empower women and adolescent girls through education and elimination of domestic violence. Mrs. Saraki who is also the Founder of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) - a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) - made the appeal while speaking at the second African Philanthropy Forum (APF) 2015 conference, in Kigali, Rwanda yesterday. She said: “Girl’s education has been recognised as a vital tool for both development and empow-

erment. Yet, across the world, 31 million girls of primary school age and 32 million girls of secondary school age are out of school, with sub-Saharan Africa suffering the lowest proportion of countries with gender parity in education. “We must overcome this gender divide in education because education empowers women and girls by helping them achieve other basic human rights and breaking generational poverty cycles,” she stated. She further advocated that implementable global efforts to be made to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 5), dedicated

to gender equality. On the issue of violence against women, Mrs. Saraki stated that, “Domestic violence has a culture of silence that must be addressed. Education and healthcare providers represent the best avenue to address domestic violence especially for adolescent girls”. She also moderated a session with the theme “Ensuring Her Place in the World” where the panel stimulated discussion on the key levers for philanthropy that are needed to increase gender balance and promote inclusive societies. The panel - that in-

cluded Phuti Mahanyele, former Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shanduka Group; and Judith Owigar, Co-founder and President of Akirachix – all agreed that more work needs to be done to ensure gender equality, a critical factor in improving overall productivity at the local and national level. An affiliate of the Global Philanthropy Forum, the African Philanthropy Forum’s 2015 Conference serves to examine the key facets capable of strengthening the capacity of Africa’s human capital and talent and the special role that philanthropy can play in advancing this goal.

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Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Group absolves Buhari, indicts EFCC over selective anti-graft war Obiora Ifoh Abuja

group comprising seasoned journalists loyal to President Muhammadu Buhari’s government, Buhari Media Support Group, BMSG, has asked the opposition Peoples

Democratic Party, PDP, to leave the president out of activities of anti-corruption agencies, saying the president has vowed not to interfere. The group believed there is a lot of misconception going on about the policy and programmes of the government, but

17 childless couples win FTSF fertility prize Franka Osakwe

eventeen childless couples have emerged winners in the free fertility screening raffle draw put together by Fertility Centre and Fertility Treatment Support Foundation, FTSF, in association with Nordica Fertility Centre. The couples will have free fertility screening at any Nordica Fertility Clinic across the country and five of them will be selected for complete In-Vitro Fertilisation, IVF, treatment. Over 6,000 couples from various parts of the country sent entries in the raffle draw that occurred on Sunday at Civic Centre, Victoria Island. At the end of the draw, 15 couples and an additional two from among the audience emerged winners. Names of the winners are Mr and Mrs Chukwukelu Ifeyinwa, Uju & Mike Mendu, Esther Oke, Nnaemeka, Augustine O. Akpoka, Musa Hassan, Ikechukwu Esedebe, Omoregbe, Onyibe, Agbo, Golleng David, Festus Udoh, Obinna Emezi, and Arikawe Ajayi. Managing Director of Nordica Fertility Centre, Dr. Ajayi Abayomi, at the draw, said five couples among the winners will be selected for a complete IVF treatment. On how the five couples would be selected, he said it would be based on medical consideration, as those without complications would be given the slots. According to him, the idea is to create awareness and educate Nigerians on the importance of IVF, as well as assist indigent couples who have infertility issues, adding that the beneficiaries would not have to worry about pay-

ing for any treatment as the complete cycle would be the responsibility of the foundation. He said one of the major issues affecting treatment of IVF in Nigeria is the lack of fora to discuss, adding that the foundation was also set up to address that challenge as well as train and educate doctors, media and the general public on IVF. “We also want people who have successfully gone through IVF to come out and share their stories. Other couples suffering in silence need to hear these stories so they can be motivated to seek treatment,” he added.

because they believe in President Buhari’s government would be coming out to defend his administration. Addressing a press conference in Abuja yesterday, Coordinator of the group, Muhammad Labbo, said under this government, the anti-corruption agencies were now living up to expectations.

Labbo challenged Buhari’s critics: “If there are petitions that have not been acted upon by the anti-graft agencies, ask them why not. (But) please leave the President out of this, because the president is not interfering and he is not going to interfere in any petition against anybody.” He said his group will

frequently analyse and synthesise the opinions of the public, and in any situation where they find it appropriate to respond, to either educate or enlighten the general public on the programmes and policies of government, “we usually intervene.” On what the Buhari government has done to save the economy, Laddo

said: “Forex has stabilised, the banking system is also not in distress. There are a few problems here and there in the capital market but there’s stability there too. Everything about the economy is going on well, though it might not be as expected because of the rot the present administration met on ground.”

L-R: Assistant Consul-General of German Embassy in Lagos, Mrs. Santa Di Pasquale; Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, presenting a gift to the Consul-General of German Embassy in Lagos, Mr. Ingo Herbert, in Lagos.

Gowon cautions Buhari, military on insurgency deadline Aliuna Godwin Abakaliki

ormer Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, yesterday cautioned President Muhammadu Buhari and the military on setting deadline to end Boko Haram insurgency. Gowon spoke in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital, when he led advocacy visit to Governor David Umahi on malaria and four other neglected tropical diseases. He stated that the Nigerian military will do its best to meet the December deadline, but noted that nobody could confidently tell when any military operation would end. Although, he was quick to add that he has absolute confidence that the military would defeat the sect. His words; “I can tell you this, nobody can really talk about when any particular operation is going to end. And as a former commander-in-chief, I know this.

“Yes, you can say you target a particular time, but it may finish before that time or it may go slightly beyond. To end it, that is the most important thing. “I assure you that I have absolute confidence in our military that they are going to really deal with the situation as they are doing at the moment.” The former Head of State expressed worry that the insurgents have resorted to using underage and innocent children as suicide bombers. “May the spirits of these poor little children, who are being brainwashed to carry out such heinous crimes, rest in peace,” he added. Gowon, who appreciated the successes recorded by President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration in the fight against Boko Haram, noted that President Buhari’s administration since it came on board, has been doing a lot to wipe out the sect.

TENDER NOTICE CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA ON BEHALF OF DMO NIGERIAN TREASURY BILLS Notice is hereby given by the Central Bank of Nigeria on behalf of DMO that the Federal Government of Nigeria Treasury Bills of 91, 182 and 364-day tenors amounting to N45,177,868,000 N23,432,803,000 and N54,353,587,000, respectively would be issued by Dutch auction on Thursday, November 05, 2015. All Money Market Dealers should submit bids through the CBN S4 WEB INTERFACE between 9.00a.m and 11.00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 04, 2015. Each bid must be in multiple of N1, 000 subject to a minimum of N10, 000. Authorized Money Market Dealers are allowed to submit multiple bids. A bid may be for authorized Money Market Dealers own account, Non – Money Market Dealers or interested members of the public. The result of the auction would be announced by 11.30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 04, 2015. The Bank reserves the right to reject any bid. Allotment letters would be issued for successful bids on Thursday, November 05, 2015, while payment for the successful bids should be made to your account with Central Bank of Nigeria not later than 11.00am on Thursday, November 05, 2015. The Bank reserves the right to vary the amount on offer in line with market realities prevailing as at the period of auction of the Nigerian Treasury Bills.

GOVERNMENT SECURITIES OFFICE CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA ABUJA.

South West

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Cancel multiple foreign carriers’ entries –Med-View Airline boss tells FG OLUSEGUN KOIKI

hief Executive Officer, Med-View Airline, Alhaji Muneer Bankole, has appealed to the Federal Government to review the multiple entries policy granted foreign carriers operating in the country. He also identified ex-

tra-ordinary charges by government agencies as some challenges confronting the nation’s carriers. Speaking with journalists in Lagos yesterday, Bankole insisted that the multiple entries policy of the government was skewed against local carriers. He said some of the

foreign carriers land and take off in Lagos, Abuja, Enugu and Kano and airlift passengers that ought to be carried by local carriers, warning that this contributed to early collapse of local carriers. He said: “Local airlines are not favoured by government granting foreign airlines multiple entry ports into the country.

Foreign airlines land in Lagos, Abuja, Enugu and Kano, for example. This does not leave any passenger for local destinations by local carriers. “The policy of multiple entries has to be reviewed. Any foreign airline seeking multiple entry ports must partner with a local airline before permission is granted.”

He emphasised that the Nigerian market was such a huge one that a lot of airlines only come in to “lick the oil” while the local carriers are reduced to spectators. He further warned government to take a second look at charges like Passenger Service Charge, PSC; navigational landing charge; parking and Value Added Tax, VAT, collected from local carriers. He added that the skyrocketing price of aviation fuel is another contributory factor that prevents local carriers from blossoming, stressing that no aircraft could fly without the product. Bankole appealed to government to consider-

ably reduce the price of fuel and ensure its availability all-year-round. “Spare parts are purchased in foreign currencies while tickets are sold in local currency. This makes the cost of aircraft maintenance in Nigeria very high hence it’s a major challenge to local airlines. The cost of importation of spare parts is gradually increasing. “High cost of bank charges on loans poses a great deal of problem to the airlines. No encouragement here. Security challenges: some airports operate from 0700 to 1800 local time only, while the training of airline indigenous personnel like pilots is not available in Nigeria,” he added.

Ogun police quiz Fuji musician over student’s shooting FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

O Wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun (middle) with 12 Green Education for the Youth (GEFTY) Ambassadors during a courtesy call on Ogun State governor in Abeokuta, after their arrival from a nine-day Green Awareness Workshop on Sustainable Environment in the United Kingdom, yesterday.

Ohanaeze supports ban on Eze Ndigbo title OJO OYEWAMIDE AKURE

pex Igbo sociocultural group, Ohaneze Ndigbo, Ondo State chapter, has declared that the use of Eze Ndigbo title by those who are not royal fathers is a cultural aberration. The group said traditional rulers in the South East had on February 20, 2008, condemned and banned the indiscriminate use of the title. It said a letter was consequently sent to monarchs in the South West on August 8, 2008, on how the title of Eze Ndigbo was being abused by some Igbo individuals. A statement by Ohaneze in Akure, yesterday urged the state government and Ondo State Council of Obas to stop recognising anybody using the title in the state. The statement was jointly signed by OnyeNdu Ndigbo of the state chapter of Ohaneze Ndig-

bo, Chief Lemmy-Kingsley Chukwuma, and the group’s state presidentgeneral, Chief Joseph Okeke. The group noted that its national headquarters and traditional rulers in Igboland had since restated that the only acceptable title for heads of the Igbo living outside the South East is ‘Onye-Ndu Ndigbo’. Commending the Deji of Akure for using his maturity to resolve the recent disagreement between Igbo residents and Akure community, the group expressed support for the decision to ban the use of Eze Ndigbo title in Akure. The group said: “It is the refusal of relevant authorities to stop Iloehika from parading himself as Eze Ndigbo of Akure as directed by the South East traditional rulers and the Ohaneze Ndigbo since 2008 that gave him courage to desecrate the stool of Deji. Igbo people in the

state don’t support his action. “A letter from our headquarters in Enugu on August 7, 2008, signed by the then Ohaneze Ndigbo’s national president-general, Dr. Dozie Ikedife, and another letter dated September 14, 2012 also from our headquarters stated clearly that High Chief Kingsley Chukwuma is the Onye-Ndun Ndigbo of

Ondo State. He is the Igbo leader in the state.” The statement urges Igbo people in Ondo State to continue to relate peacefully with their host communities. The Deji of Akureland, Oba Ogunlade Aladetoyinbo, had two weeks ago dethroned one Chief Gregory Iloehike as Eze Ndigbo for disrespecting the royal stool.

gun State police command yesterday quizzed a popular fuji icon, King Wasiu Ayinde, popularly called KWAM 1, over the shooting of a student of Olabisi Onabanjo University, OOU, Ago-Iwoye, three weeks ago. KWAM 1, who arrived at Eleweran Command headquarters of the police around 11am, was interrogated by operatives attached to the Criminal Investigative and Intelligence Bureau, CIIB, for about six hours before he was released on bail. National Mirror recalls that one of the band members of the fuji musician had shot at the OOU student identified as Azeez Kofoworola of the

Ijesa-in-Council reads riot act over Oba’s death rumour KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

ouncil of Obas and Chiefs in Ijeshaland has condemned the rumour that paramount ruler of Ijeshaland, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, is dead, describing people peddling the rumor as wicked and callous. This was contained in a release signed by Chief Ayo Agbede, the Lorunyin of Ilesa, Chief Ayo Agbede, and made available

to journalists in Ibadan, yesterday, where the chief affirmed that the Owa Obokun returned from London, where he went to grace the occasion of the late Ooni of Ife son’s wedding on Thursday and held an elaborate wedding for his son in Ibadan over the weekend. “Initially, we thought the rumour would die down naturally like many before it, but when we noticed that the rumour mill has invaded the social media, we had to let the un-

suspecting public know the truth. “It’s quite disappointing when we also read the same falsehood report in a popular online news website on Monday, which further misled the public. “Kabiyesi was full of life and danced with several Obas, chiefs and dignitaries from all walks of life on Saturday at Jogor Centre, Ibadan on the occasion of his son, Prince Adebayo Aromolaran’s wedding,” the statement said.

Department of Business Education on Saturday, October 10, at an hotel in Ago-Iwoye during a party organised by owner of the hotel to mark Ago-Iwoye Day. Kofoworola was, however, hit by the bullet fired by King Wasiu Ayinde’s band boys while sitting inside an unregistered Honda Accord belonging to an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, identified as Hassan Afeez. The development, however, led to an abrupt suspension of the show, while Kofoworola was admitted at the General Hospital, Ijebu-Ode, for treatment. The police had, however, invited the ace Fuji musician for interrogation, which he refused to honour until yesterday. Although the total number of charges levelled against King Wasiu could not be ascertained, National Mirror gathered that he was drilled for close to six hours before he was released on bail with a reliable surety on the condition that such surety would provide him anytime he is needed. Deputy Police Public Relations Officer (Dpt. PPRO), Abimbola Oyeyemi, who confirmed the interrogation, told journalists that Wasiu’s case was transferred to CIIB on the CP’s instruction.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South West

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Ogun elders want increased FG’s presence in Tongeji Island FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

Supporters of Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi jubilating after the governorship election petitions tribunal upheld his election in Ibadan, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Court remands 3 suspected vandals in prison WALE IGBINTADE

Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday ordered three persons charged with pipeline vandalism to be remanded at the Ikoyi Prisons. The accused, Ola Omosowore, 29; Anthony Adebayo, 20; and Motouayo Lateef, 20, were arraigned by the police on a four-

count charge bordering on the alleged offence. They, however, each pleaded not guilty to the charge. Justice Saliu Saidu ordered Omosowore and Adebayo to be remanded at the Ikoyi Prisons following an application by the prosecutor, Mr. Kingsley Nugent. The court subsequently adjourned the case to December 1 for trial.

Earlier, the prosecutor had told the court that the accused committed the offence on October 17. He said they were arrested by the police at Ilado waterside in Lagos, within the Federal High Court jurisdiction. The prosecutor alleged that the accused conspired to tamper with an oil pipeline within the locality and scooped large volume of petroleum for

illegal sale. According to the prosecutor, the accused were arrested on a tip-off. He said the alleged offence contravened the provisions of sections 1(19), 1(7) (a), and 1(7) (b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, Cap M17, Laws of the Federation 2007. The offence of vandalism attract up to a term of 10 years imprisonment if convicted.

N32bn fraud: Ministerial screening stalls trial of Indian WALE IGBINTADE

he ongoing trial of a Nigeria-based Indian businessman, Patrick Fernandez, at a Federal High Court in Lagos could not proceed yesterday due to the absence of his lawyer, Mr. James Ocholi (SAN). Fernandez, alongside his three companies, is facing a 56-count charge relating to perpetration of fraud against various Nigerian commercial banks to the tune of about N32bn. Ocholi, who was last week screened for ministerial appointment by the Senate in Abuja, was not in court yesterday. Ocholi’s colleague, Mr. Kayode Enitan, who appeared, told the court that the absence of the senior advocate was connected with his ongoing screening for ministerial appointment.

Enitan urged the trial judge, Justice John Tsoho, to grant an adjournment in the circumstance. “My Lord, we have prepared for today; however, the events of the past two weeks, which are still ongoing, and these have to do with the nomination and screening as a minister of the Federal Republic, made it impossible for him (Ocholi) to attend today’s sitting. “So, we crave the indulgence of my lord for an adjournment, probably to a date in early December or January as may be convenient for my lord, by which date if he successfully becomes a minister, an arrangement would have been made for representation of the 1st and 2nd defendants,” Enitan said. But in response, the prosecuting counsel, Mr. Adebisi Adeniyi, who said he had a witness

in court, expressed displeasure that though the parties had been in court since morning, Enitan had to wait till the afternoon before asking for an adjournment. Adeniyi said since Enitan had indicated that he was holding brief for Ocholi, the judge should decline the prayer for an adjournment and allow trial to go on as scheduled. Enitan, however, apologised and insisted on his prayer for an adjournment. Justice Tsoho said it was public knowledge that Ocholi was being screened for ministerial appointment, noting that Enitan had also tendered an apology. Though the judge noted that the criminal trial, which began since 2008, deserved hearing without delay, he, however, adjourned till December 15, 2015, by which time Ocho-

li would have known his fate. An investigator with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Adeniyi Adebayo, had November last year, under crossexamination by Ocholi, narrated to the court how huge sums of money was discovered in Fernandez’s accounts with various banks. Adebayo told the court that when the banks were interviewed, they informed the EFCC that the accused person applied for cheque discounting facility. He said: “During interview with the banks, we were informed by bank officials that the huge amount was related to loans granted the accused especially by Intercontinental Bank.” Intercontinental Bank had since been dissolved and merged with Access Bank.

gun State Elders Consultative Forum, OGECF, yesterday tasked President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure more Federal Government presence in Tongeji Island in order to further ward off intrusion of the Republic of Benin from the oil-rich border island. Coordinator of the forum, Aremo Taiwo Alimi, gave the charge in Abeokuta, the state capital, during a press conference heralding the 10th anniversary of the forum. Alimi, who was flanked by other members of the anniversary committee of the 125-member forum chaired by former Justice of the International Court at The Hague, Prince Bola Ajibola, said if schools, hospitals and link bridges were built in the area, they would give residents a high sense of being Nigerians and at the same time ward off the Republic of Benin’s inordinate desire to usurp the nation’s rich

resources. The forum further emphasised that the recent visit of President Buhari and Governor Amosun Ibikunle to Benin Republic was in part due to the investigative reports of OGECF on the island. Alimi said a link bridge, if constructed, would connect the island with the nearest mainland in Ipokia, headquarters of Ipokia Local Government Area of the state, and spare the people the pains of circuitous journey of first entering the Republic of Benin before accessing the Nigerian island and mainland. Alimi noted that the said reports which were submitted to Governor Amosun and the President, gave the two leaders insight into the situation of things at the oil-rich island. According to Alimi, a renowned journalist and broadcaster, the visitation saved Tongeji Island, from being annexed by the Republic of Benin as the report was acted upon by the President.

Egbeda hosts Glo Laffta Fest

nxious residents of Egbeda, a suburb of Lagos, who in the last two months had been hearing about the Glo Laffta Fest, the premium comedy show of the Next Generation Network, Globacom, were at last given a dose of hilarious jokes last Sunday. Glo subscribers were treated to an evening of fun, laughter and dance as the show landed at Floral Hall, Santos, Egbeda. Characteristic of the comedy show, young, upcoming acts were given opportunity to showcase their talents as they set the ball rolling for the show. Fabulous, Bamsley, Crown, Phlow, D-One and Illven were singers who performed, while Dave, SLK and D-Lecturer cracked hilarious jokes. The anchorman for the show, Bright Okpocha, aka Basket Mouth, was simply in his element as he announced the performing artistes and comedians, while intermittently reeling out rib-cracking jokes. Acapella was unarguably the curtain-raiser

for the night as his performance set the pace and tempo of the show. He was followed by Princewill, who gave values for his fans’ time out with jokes about his upbringing in the slums of Ajegunle. The duo of Still Ringing took the show a notch higher. Their style of stand-up comedy was the ‘speaker and interpreter.’ The duo held the audience in sustained ecstasy until Basket Mouth announced they had over-shot their time. The crowd enjoyed every bit of their outing. D-Don emerged on stage, looking dapper in sky blue boots and hat. The Warri-born comedian also lived up to expectation. Then, came Seyi Law whose mien and physical appearance alone amused the audience. He interacted with his fans as he reeled out jokes. Korede Bello climaxed the show with an exhilarating performance. The lad performed with zest and youthful energy that left the audience chorusing and applauding him.

South East

Tribunal affirms PDP lawmakers’ elections

…APC heads for Appeal Court

Chris Njoku Owerri

embers of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Imo State yesterday took to the streets as the State’s Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Owerri, the state capital, upheld the elections of their candidates. The tribunal declared Emma Orie and Mike Iheanetu as winners of the House of Assembly election for Ohaji Egbema and Aboh Mbaise state constituencies. Candidates of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Luke Chukwu and Paschal Nwogu, had challenged Orie and Iheanetu’s elections on grounds that they were not duly elected by majority votes. While urging the tribunal to cancel the poll, Chukwu also alleged that Orie was not qualified to run for the election because, according to him, the lawmaker did not possess requisite qualification (school certificate), while Nwogu, the APC candidate for Aboh Mbaise, alleged that the April 11 House of Assembly poll in Aboh Mbaise was marred by violence and ballot box snatching. The petitioners also alleged that the PDP candidates’ elections were invalid by reason of corrupt practices and non compliance with provisions of the electoral act.

But, in their verdict, the three-man panel of judges Ibrahim Mohammed, Khadi S.U. Muktar, and Francis Ibiam, stated that the petitioners failed to prove their allegations beyond every reasonable doubt. Chairman of the panel, Ibrahim Mohammed, had after review of the prayers and arguments and submissions made by the parties in his judgment, struck the two applications out for lacking in merit. In the case of Aboh Mbaise State constituency, the tribunal added that the petitioner failed to prove that the grounds of his petition substantially affected the election result to his disadvantage and therefore dismissed the petition for lack of merit. The tribunal maintained that the applicant was unable to convince the court on his claims that the election was marred by violence and was short of the electoral law. It added that after thorough examination of the argument by counsel of PDP’s Iheanatu, the court was left with no other option than to submit that the petitioner had no case against the first respondent. “I am grateful to God and the judges who went a great mile to deliver this landmark judgment. I thank them immensely for upholding justice and the will of the masses.

Hausa community appeals to FG over S’East roads Chris Njoku Owerri

hairman of Hausa community in South East zone, Adamu Sokoto, yesterday called on the Federal Government to rehabilitate roads in South East states. Sokoto also expressed sadness at the deplorable condition of some federal and state roads in South East states, stating that they are death traps and need urgent government attention. He further told newsmen in Owerri that the bad condition of the roads had affected socio-economic activities in the region. He therefore, urged President Muhammadu Buhari

to take urgent steps for turnaround of the region and Nigeria in general. Sokoto described Buhari as an upright man who cares about the overall good and development of the nation and urged Nigerians to exercise patience to enable him work. He also urged the incoming ministers to be upright so as not soil the administration’s image. Similarly, Sokoto appealed to Kebbi State Governor, Abubakar Bagudu, to build a secondary school in Gubi Kurrey community in Mayaman council area of Kebbi, saying it was long overdue and necessary to reduce the suffering pupils in the region.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Emmanuel Ezeh Enugu

Concerned Abia Stakeholders’ Forum yesterday claimed it has collected no less than 23,000 signatures for the recall of ex-Governor Theodore Orji from the Senate. The development is already generating tension in Abia Central Senatorial zone. In a statement made available to journalists in Enugu by leader of the

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Group collects 23,000 signatures for Orji’s recall movement, Comrade Gabriel Ohajuruka Jnr, he accused Orji of poorly representing the people in the Senate. While stating that there was no going back on the recall process, the group said “Senator Theodore Orji is a mere bencher that moves no motion or

takes any visible stand on issues. “He is spending more time sleeping or yawning in the Senate’s hallowed chamber and if allowed to remain in the Senate, it may not augur well for our people.” Ohajuruka claimed that “so far, more than 23,435

signatures of voters have been collected. “We have concluded plans to officially write to the INEC and the leadership of National Assembly to effect the recall. “We will also march to INEC headquarters in Abuja and the National Assembly next week.”

Prisons officials during the presentation of training manual on human rights by Swiss Government to the Nigerian Prisons Service in Abuja, yesterday.

UNTH CMD must go —Resident doctors Emmanuel Ezeh Enugu

ssociation of Resident Doctors, ARD, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, UNTH, Ituku Ozalla, Enugu State, has renewed its demand for the immediate removal of the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, CMD, Dr. Christopher Amah. It also disowned a media report calling for the suspension of the ongoing industrial action by the doctors. Two doctors operating under the aegis of Concerned Resident Doctors had in a press statement on Monday announced discontinuation of the strike, accusing the ARD leadership of fighting an unjust cause. However, reacting to the development yesterday, ARD Public Relations Officer, Dr. Chukwuma Oraegbunam, said the two doctors were not genuine members. The statement read:

“The attention of the leadership of Association of Resident Doctors, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (ARD UNTH), Ituku Ozalla, Enugu State has been drawn to the press statement by Dr Maxwell Egbugara and one Dr Ihechiluru Onyebuchi, disowning the leadership of Dr Ugwuoke Aloy Ifedinso, president of ARD UNTH. “We wish to state categorically that there is no form of leadership crisis in ARD UNTH and the current demand for the sack of CMD, Dr C. C. Amah is based on verifiable fact and was a decision of a wellconstituted and attended congress of ARD UNTH. “While the name Dr Ihechiluru Onyebuchi does not exist in our membership register, we express pity that Dr. Egbugara, who had been expelled from Residency training before because of his inability to meet up with the requirements of retaining and completing the programme

in Obstetrics and Gynaecology will summon courage to write against the leadership of the body that has provided succour and support for him because of nepotism. “It is plain truth that Egbugara is a close relative of Dr Amah, and it is on record that Amah in his usual corrupt manner re-recruited the sacked Egbugara into the residency training programme clearly and glaringly against the due process.” It added, “We are, therefore, not surprised that Egbugara, who was in the meeting where our decision to withdraw services and fight down the incompetent CMD, will play pawn in Amah’s hands, at whose mercies he remains a staff of UNTH. “Egbugara knows his time is up. If Amah falls, as he soon will, he falls too as no new CMD will keep a man on residency for over 16 years in a department as demanding as Obstetrics

and Gynaecology. “It is obvious that the CMD, Dr Amah, cannot possibly come up with appropriate defense for his inhumanity to the patients and staff of UNTH brought about by his incompetence and love for corrupt practices, hence his decision to attempt this divide-andrule game which is dead on arrival. “We encourage him to keep up with the emergency and swift changes he is making in UNTH following our public outcry as these may help reduce down his jail term, because we are convinced he will not only be sacked but will also be made to pay for the pains he put patients and staff of UNTH through his period of bad, incompetent and wicked leadership. “Our President, Dr Ugwuoke Ifedinso, continues to enjoy the full confidence of members of ARD UNTH even as he gallantly leads the association in this freedom fight.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Dennis Naku

Port Harcourt

ivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has described the Election Petitions Tribunal’s judgement on the April 11 governorship poll as a judicial gang-up against him and people of the state. Wike expressed surprise that former Governor Rotimi Amaechi, who closed courts in the state for over a year was now favoured by the judiciary he treated with disdain. The governor, who spoke through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Sir Opunabo Inko-Tariah, in a statement, said the unfolding political situation in Rivers was an affront to democracy and disregard

South South

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

There’s judicial gang-up against me, Rivers people –Wike

for the people’s will. He further stated, “The courts are setting pernicious precedents by hinging their verdicts on inane points. Rivers people overwhelmingly gave their mandate to Governor Wike, but a microscopic few want to wrest that mandate from him through the back door. “I have watched with disdain the insidious judicial gang-up against Governor Nyesom, CON. It is surprising that in this modern time, the tempest of justice will be allowed to blow fitfully across our

courts. “What is going on right now can best be described as judicial gang-up against Governor Wike, nay, the people of Rivers State. It is an affront on democracy and blight disregard for the will of the people as evinced in the April 11general elections. “When the tribunals were set up, the Court of Appeal and Federal High court were sitting. The state was also peaceful. Why move the juridical seat to Abuja? “The answer is simple: to subvert the will of the

people. The issue of security was ostensibly used. It is only a veneer for the compromising bias of our adversaries. But like Winston Churchill said: Truth is incontrovertible; malice may distort it, ignorance may deride it, but there it is. “I believe that sagacity shall prevail at the Supreme Court on the substantive issue of who won the governorship election in Rivers State. “Rivers people will not resign themselves to fate and allow their mandate freely given to Governor

Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson (2nd L), appending his signature to the ‘’Stop Youth Abuse Campaign,’’ by a civil organization, Women Arise, led by women activist, Dr. Joe Okei Odumakin (3rd left), with a PDP chieftain, Sen. Nimi Barigha Amange (left), and others, during a courtesy call at Government House, Yenagoa.

S’Court dismisses Wike’s appeal on tribunal’s relocation Doosuur Iwambe Abuja

upreme Court yesterday dismissed the appeal filed by Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, challenging the relocation of Election Petitions Tribunal to Abuja as against Port Harcourt, the state capital. Delivering judgment in the interlocutory appeal filed by Wike and PDP, Justice Amiru Sanusi held that the decision to relocate the tribunal to Abuja followed the enormous security challenge

in the state. The apex court held that the appeal lacked merit and substance and was thrown out in its entirety. Justice Sanusi said President of the Court of Appeal, Zainab Bulkachuwa, was right in her decision that the tribunal should sit in Abuja instead of Port Harcourt for the protection of lives of the tribunal members and spectators. The tribunal, which sat in Abuja, had last Saturday nullified the April 11 governorship election that produced Wike as governor and ordered the Independent National

Electoral Commission, INEC, to conduct a fresh election within 90 days. However, before Saturday’s judgment, Wike’s appeal had been pending before the apex court wherein he was challenging the relocation of the tribunal to sit in Abuja. At the Court of Appeal, the panel of justices had upheld the relocation of the tribunal on ground of insecurity. Not satisfied, Wike had approached the apex court seeking an order to set aside the judgment of the Court of Appeal and the ruling of the petitions tribunal on jurisdiction.

A full panel of the apex court in their unanimous decision dismissed the appeal for lacking in merit. Reading the lead judgment, Justice Sanusi held that evidence showed there was security challenge prevailing in Rivers when the panel was constituted. He further held that the court cannot be bound in the decision in Ibori’s case as cited by the appellant. The court further noted that in the Ibori case, it was not the Court of Appeal president that relocated the tribunal, even as no situation of insecurity prevailed then.

Wike be stolen away.” He called on those he described as ‘political and judicial coup plotters’ to give this a penetrating thought.

“We shall defend our mandate. The voice of the people is the voice of God and the people have spoken: It is Wike or no one,” the statement said.

Tribunal didn’t sack me, members –Rivers Speaker •says I’m still in charge of House Dennis Naku

Port Harcourt

peaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, Ikuinyi-Owaji Ibani, yesterday declared that neither himself nor any member of the legislature were sacked by the Election Petitions Tribunal. Ibani was reacting to the judgement of the tribunal that nullified the elections of 20 of his colleagues and himself in the state’s Assembly on Monday. Addressing journalists at the Assembly complex, the speaker representing Andoni Constituency, said the tribunal gave judgement in its opinion and ordered a re-run within 90 days. According to him, “I heard news that the Speaker and 20 others have been sacked by the election tribunal. No member, not even the Speaker has been sacked. “The lower tribunal gave judgement in their opinion. In their judgement they argued that there should be a re-run within 90 days. “The Rt. Hon. IkuinyiOwaji Ibani was not sacked by any election petitions tribunal. And none of the members was sacked by the election petitions tribunal. I am still the Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, and the members still remain members of Rivers State House of Assembly. “The whole world knows that election was conducted in the state on April 11. The whole world knows as well that INEC prepared for such election for a long period. “Because we have faith

in the judiciary system, we have faith in the judges and justices we have in Nigeria, we believe that our case will not be different,” he said. Igbani disclosed that the lawmakers had directed their counsels to appeal the matter, expressing optimism in the credibility of the judiciary to deliver unbiased verdicts. “We have strong faith in the Nigerian state and its judicial system. We believe, as legislators, that conscience not placed on the canvass of justice is unconscionable. “We believe that same principles in law should be applied in all circumstance. “The judicial procedure given the Nigerian system is such that, when the lower tribunal gives its judgement, you have the right to appeal. And that we have done. We have directed our lawyers to file notices of appeal. That we have done.” Fielding questions from journalists, the speaker wondered why different principles on a similar circumstance should play out in tribunals’ judgements. He said, “We believe that if a particular principle was applied in some situations in the North, West, it should also apply in the South-South. If Ambode (governor of Lagos State) has nothing with card reader, why should Wike’s? Justice is one element that keeps the faith of the people of a nation. “It is my plea that wherever we find ourselves as people of Nigeria, the Nigerian state should give us justice.”

North

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

FCTA to return 500 IDPs home Omeiza Ajayi, ABUJA

ederal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, has concluded arrangements to return all persons displaced by Boko Haram activities and who are currently in various Federal Capital Territory, FCT camps, to their respective states. Director-General of FCT Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, Abass Idriss, disclosed this yesterday at an interface with the media in Abuja. He said there are over 10,000 internally displaced persons, IDP in the territory, explaining that the initiative to send them back to their states of origin or designated places close to their original homes is to commence with 500 of the displaced persons who had indicated interest to be so assisted. Idriss added that the agency will give priority to the first set of persons that already indicated interest to return home. He argued that the best thing to do with regards the IDPs was to return them to their states, and recalled that stakeholders’ meeting was already ongoing in Maiduguri on how to assist the persons displaced by insurgency in the state to return to their communities. The FEMA boss stated

that the agency contacted its counterpart in Borno that some her natives were in various camps in Abuja, to which the Borno emergency agency said it was not aware. Idriss disclosed that the current locations where those displaced by Boko Haram were housed were not set up by FCT administration, as according to him, it would amount to a crime to open such camps. According to him, his agency never promised to establish such camps when it was inaugurated but only promised to establish designated camps with necessary facilities to cater for emergency situations so that when such happens, affected persons would be moved there. He said the immediate past administration gave approval for land for that purpose. The FEMA boss, however, assured that there was nothing to fear about insurgents infiltrating the camps in Abuja as there was watertight security at the various camps. He also disclosed that profiling of the displaced persons was done while the agency collaborated with others to have those in camps vaccinated against common diseases, in addition to the provision of other healthcare services.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Insurgency: FG to spend N233bn on N’East reconstruction Inusa Ndahi, MAIDUGURI

residential Committee on North-East Interventions, PCNI, is to spend N233 billion on post-insurgency reconstruction and rehabilitation of communities ravaged by Boko Haram sect in the North-east. Chairman, Presidential Committee on Northeast Intervention, General Theophilus Danjuma (retd), disclosed this yesterday when President Muhammadu Buhari represented by Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, declared open a workshop on North-East Humanitarian Multi Stakeholders Engagement with the theme “Coordination, Communication and Cooperation” at Government House, Maiduguri. Gen. Danjuma, who was represented by Mohammed

Danjuma, said the carnage in north-east by Boko Haram terrorists requires proper coordination, cooperation and communication to alleviate the sufferings of the millions of Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs and the reconstruction of destroyed communities. He said Federal Government and other stakeholders are determined to manage the humanitarian crisis in the region and assured IDPs they would soon return to their communities after their destroyed communities are reconstructed. While declaring the occasion open, Prof. Osinbajo said: “We are in Maiduguri to show humanity and give milk of human kindliness to our brothers and sisters who for six years have been ravaged by Boko Haram that kill, maim and abduct innocent people.” The Vice President also

stated that his team was also in Maiduguri to strengthen the capacity of non-governmental organisations and individuals, so as to put the post insurgency construction on sound pedestal. Also, United Nations country representative, Ratti Ndlovu, said Nigeria has the capacity to restore the shattered lives of the displaced people and reconstruct their destroyed communities, so they could return to continue with their normal lives. She said as managers of humanitarian crisis they will continue to partners with the federal and state governments and other development partners to restore quality life to IDPs and reconstruct their destroyed communities. Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State said in the drive to restore the destroyed communities,

the state government has created a ministry of rehabilitation and reconstruction, which has since commenced the reconstruction of destroyed towns of Benesheik, Auno and Jakana in Kaga and Konduga local governments respectively. While commending the President Muhammadu Buhari administration for efforts towards ending the insurgency in Northeast, Shettima said the Borno government will continue to partner with Federal Government and other stakeholders in restoring the destroyed communities. The meeting was attended by Governors Mohammed Bindow (Adamawa) and Ibrahim Gaidam (Yobe), while the other governors of Bauchi, Gombe and Taraba were represented by their deputies, as well as traditional rulers and dignitaries drawn from the zone.

Reps urge FG to fix Abuja-Kogi-Edo-Delta road Ubong Ukpong ABUJA

ouse of Representatives yesterday asked the Federal Government to reconstruct the Abuja-Kogi-EdoDelta road. The House presided over by Deputy Speaker, Sulaiman Lasun, mandated its Committee on Works to liaise with the Federal Ministry of Works to ensure that provision is made in the 2016 budget proposal for the reconstruction of the road. The resolution followed

a motion brought by Joan Onyemaechi Mrakpor, who deplored the state of the road. She noted that despite the socio-economic importance of the road, it had been left to deteriorate to such that it was replete with potholes and unprotected narrow bridges. The legislator was disturbed that the potholes, unprotected and narrow bridges as well as undulating nature of the road have resulted in slow vehicular movement which has given robbers opportunity to pounce on commuters.

Kebbi State Governor Atiku Bagudu (left) speaking during his visit to Emir of Yauri, Dr. Zayyanu Abdullahi, in Kebbi, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

NAF destroys terrorists’ fuel, munitions dump in Sambisa Ubong Ukpong ABUJA

igerian Air Force, NAF yesterday said its alpha jets successfully carried out air

FG orders protection of prisoners’ rights Omeiza Ajayi

ederal Government has ordered all controllers of prison formations across the country to ensure adequate protection of the rights of all prison inmates. Giving the directive on behalf of the government, Controller-General of Ni-

geria Prisons Service, Dr Peter Ekpendu, said the service is committed to all international charter on human rights to which Nigeria is signatory. Ekpendu spoke yesterday in Abuja when he jointly unveiled a new Human Rights Training Manual and Guide with the Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Niger and Chad, Eric May-

oraz. Mayoraz, whose home government sponsored the development of the manual, said: “The two countries have been working closely on various issues, including human rights.” According to him, ensuring that human rights are mainstreamed as a natural and integral part of operations by the Nigerian Pris-

strikes and destroyed the Boko Haram sect’s vehicle workshops, fuel and ammunition dumps within Sambisa Forest. A statement through its Director of Public Rela-

tions and Information, Air Commodore Dele Alonge, said the development was a renewed drive to further degrade the terrorist sect. “This feat by the Nigerian Air Force came as a

ons Service is a very important endeavour. “Over the last years we have been working closely together to build the capacity of NPS staff to comply with international standard in the training of inmates,” he stated. Mayoraz said the manual would improve the system and modernise operations of prisons in the field of hu-

man rights. On his part, Ekpendu said the manual would assist the service with the best training for its officers. “We also train Prisons officers from other West African countries. We would inculcate this knowledge in them and all those who pass through our training schools in the country,” he assured.

result of a painstaking intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) efforts by the NAF’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and ATR-42 platforms. “In view of the above, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, wishes to assure all Nigerians that with these successful strikes on the insurgents, their capabilities have been further degraded to pave the way for the final onslaught by the land forces to meet the Commander-inChief, President Muhammadu Buhari’s directives to bring insurgency in the North-East to an end,” Alonge stated.

Wednesday October 28, 2015

Kogi gubernatorial election: We are ready to provide adequate security –CP Ojukwu

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Tribunal upholds Ajimobi’s victory Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

midst heavy security cover led by the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Leye Oyebade, the Oyo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, sitting in Ibadan, the state capital, on Tuesday, dismissed the petition filed by the candi-

date of Accord party, Sen. Rashidi Ladoja against the election of Governor Abiola Ajimobi of the All Progressives Congress, APC. The three-man tribunal headed by Justice Muhammed Maiyaki in its four and half hours judgment dismissed the petition of Ladoja, saying “the petitioner has woe-

fully failed to establish his case.” Justice Mayaki who read the tribunal’s unanimous verdict ,had earlier knocked off the evidence of Ladoja’s principal witness, Mr. Bimbo Adepoju, whose report of inspection of election materials used in the election would have provided strong foundation for the petition.

He said Adepoju’s self confession that he is a farmer of arable crops, makes whatever evidence he might have given before the tribunal on the election documents, to be mere personal opinion since he (Adepoju) is not an expert. He said, “Issues relating to card readers, election documents ,etc need to be

Security checks at the governorship election petition tribunal judgment in Ibadan, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Buhari may lead Sylva’s inauguration campaign next Monday Obiora Ifoh ABUJA

arring any last minute hitches, President Muhammadu Buhari and the leadership of the All Progressive Congress, APC will next week Monday storm Yenagoa, capital of Bayelsa for the formal inauguration of Chief Timi Sylva governorship campaign. Also, the former governor and candidate of the APC in the forthcoming governor-

ship election, Sylva has said that efforts are on with well meaning members of the party in Bayelsa state to actualize his ambition. Sylva who admitted that his decision to select his running mate was a major decision, added that there is no how such decision will be taken in politics without offending some people. Sylva told newsmen yesterday in Abuja that his party was considering next week Monday for the inauguration.

He also said that he does not know of any aspirant who is not working with him. On the delay of the campaign council’s inauguration, the governorship candidate said: “You can see we are all here, nothing is delaying the thing ,it is just that we have to make sure that we cross the Ts and dot the Is before we go ahead to inaugurate the campaign council, the processes are on and it is not late at all.” When asked on the ef-

PDP groups defect to APC in Kogi

t lest over 20 interest groups and several thousands of supporters of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP have dumped the party and defected to the All Progressive congress, APC ahead of November

21, 2015 governorship election in the state. While receiving the PDP defectors in Idah yesterday, the APC governorship candidate, Prince Abubarka Audu assured the people of Idah that the APC gov-

ernment will be fared to the defectors. Audu stated that all the township roads are in bad shape, noting that if voted to power in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state, he would give the roads a

forts been put in place to avoid going to the poll with divided house, Sylva said: “On the issue of my running mate, that has been resolved, you know such issue will always come up because there is no way you make a major decision like that in politics and somebody will not be offended, but that is a family issue and we have resolved it. “Every well meaning APC aspirants and members are working with me.”

facelift.. He urged the people of the area to vote en mass for him come November. He stated that a vote for APC is a vote for Change in Kogi state, stating that the mandate of the people will transform the state.

handled by knowledgeable experts as they are technical . Mr. Adepoju has said he is a farmer of arable products and that he is a member of Accord party. So. Mr. Adepoju and his inspection team are not neutral party. Their report cannot be relied upon by this tribunal.” The tribunal also faulted the allegations of non accreditation of voters, non -voting and other malpractices alleged by the other twenty-eight (28) witnesses who testified for Ladoja and Accord party , stating that all the allegations were not proved beyond reasonable doubts.” “The reliefs being sought cannot be granted. The election and returns of Governor Ajimobi as the Oyo state governor is hereby upheld ,having scored the majority of votes cast in the April 11 election. Accordingly, the petition is dismissed”, he said. All efforts by APC Counsel, Chief Wole Aina to seek for cost was not granted by the tribunal which ruled against any cost for all parties. Lead Counsel to Senator Ladoja, Chief Richard Ogunwole, Chief Wole Aina, and Mr. Adebayo, M.O. who stood in for Governor Ajimobi’s lead counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, while reacting to the ruling, saluted what they referred to as the tribunal’s industry. Meanwhile, Governor Ajimobi has hailed his victory at the governorship election petitions tribunal, attributing it to God and the people of the state who made it possible for him to break the second term jinx. Ajimobi in his reaction shortly after the judgment, said the verdict had laid to rest all the innuendoes, evil machinations and falsehood being spread across the state and beyond by his oppo-

nents after his victory. He said, “I am of immense gratitude to God for this victory and for making it possible for me to break the second term jinx. I thank the good people of Oyo State for the confidence reposed in me by voting for me en masse for the second term in spite of innuendoes, evil machinations and falsehood by our opponents “Today’s judgment has strengthened my belief in the judiciary as the bastion of our fragile democracy and the bulwark of good governance. The judgment is not only a victory for my party, the All Progressives Congress, but also a victory for democracy and the rule of law. The road has not been smooth and it has been long but events have been encouraging and it goes to show that our faith has not been misplaced.” Ajimobi, who pledged not to betray the confidence reposed in him by the people of the state, said he remained the ``coordinating servant’’ of those seeking the progress and prosperity of the state. While thanking the tribunal for doing a thorough job, he said the thoroughness and industry put into the writing and delivery of the judgment was highly noteworthy after painstakingly poring through stacks of documents. The governor said from the outset, he was confident that he would emerge victorious, saying that the governorship election in the state was one of the most credible elections conducted on April 11. He, however, thanked the opposition for bringing out the best in him, saying if they had not taken him to court, all doubts might not have been erased about the credibility, freeness and fairness of the election that earned him a second term.

Politics

Wednesday October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Kogi gubernatorial election: We are ready to provide adequate security â&#x20AC;&#x201C;CP Ojukwu Can you tell us the level of preparedness of the State Police Command ahead of next month governorship election in Kogi State? The election is not coming to us as a surprise, we have always known that 21st of November 2015 is an election date when the electorate will file to elect governor and the police have began to make arrangement and perfected strategies towards ensuring peace and security of lives and property before, during and after the election. Police is also providing enabling environment to all the candidates to sell themselves and their manifestoes to the electorate and public in general. The parties are already campaigning after having their primaries. The Police provided security during the primaries, there were no issues . All the registered political parties did their primaries and police provided security, there was no complaints, no re- run. Now that the parties have embarked on zonal and local government campaign tours, the police has been providing security. All political parties have been provided with level playing ground. We are also networking with other stakeholders, the traditional rulers intimating them of what is expected of them before, during and after the election. All that we are working towards is peace and nobody should be disenfranchised in Kogi state. We want a situation where who win, will win honourably and those who lose, losess honourably. Political gladiators, parties and other stakeholders in Kogi State have been made to sign peace accord, what informed this decision? Following the peace accord signed by the National political actors before 28th March and April 11 general elections, we have decided to domesticate the same to bring the political actors, the party Chairmen, leaders and stakeholders in the state together to come and make pledge before the people of Kogi state and sign peace accord. That they will conduct themselves like gentlemen, that they will play the game according to the rules. Like somebody says â&#x20AC;&#x153;Election not war , not fight â&#x20AC;&#x153;. They have signed undertaken before the people of Kogi state under the camera that they will not induce their members into violence, that they will not breach peace and order .That they will allow every bird to fly and perch. They have signed and we recorded it. It is a moral obligation. That they will not sign the pact and do another thing. No. The law is not a respecter of anybody. Any of them who goes contrary to electoral law or any law will not be allowed to go scot free .Police is not alone in this regard, we are networking with other security agencies in the state, the Army, DSS, Navy, NSCDC, NDLEA and NOA that together we shall provide a conducive environment for peaceful conduct of the governorship election in Kogi State. How many men of the police will come from the headquarters and other commands to join the state command in order to ensure violence-free election? This Nigerian Police Force and the mandate of Inspector General of Police is to protect lives and property nationwide. For every part of Nigeria is under the cover of Police security. Our job is to promote and protect human rights. All Nigerians, residents are under the watch of the Police, Kogi election as we expected to have very soon, the national command must be interested. So the police command in Abuja will deploy more men, materials and what have you to this command to ensure peaceful conduct of Kogi State gubernatorial election. In view of the high rate of unemployment in the country, youths have become veritable instrument of violence in the hands of politicians, what advice

Ahead of Kogi State governorship election, the state Police Command has vowed to provide adequate security for lives and property before, during and after election. In this interview with WALE IBRAHIM in Lokoja, the State Commissioner of Police, CP. Emmanuel Ojukwu disclosed that the Police is battle ready for the election. Excerpt: But it is advisable not to allow politicians to give them guns, arrow and spear and then ask themselves why? Police here has advised quite number of youths not to allowed themselves to be used . Of what gain is it for somebody who will dump them when the law caught up with them and they are sent to prisons, the politicians and their own children would not be there. It is also worthwhile to return any gun in their possession now because if they are caught they will not be spare. For instance how could youths fall prey for those that have enjoyed their youthful days, enjoy their old age and have been in government and wanted to start using the time of the youths again. This a food for thought for them. The youth are bit wiser now as many of them are now dumping that evil practice. What is your candid advice to the electorate before, during and after governorship election in the state? The electorate that have valid voters card should go out to vote for the candidate of their choice. In doing so, those with valid voters card must follow the rule set by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, the electoral umpire and managers. The Electoral Act also gave guidelines. I will advise that those who want to vote should do so in accordance with law, they should not go to polling booth and cause trouble or should go there and start snapping with phones or camera. Having voted if any of them wish to stay, they can stay quietly and not holding meeting within the range of 300 metres. If election will come and go on November 21st, the Kogi State which was created in 1991 would remain.

Ojukwu

They have signed undertaken before the people of

Kogi state

under the camera that they will not induce their members into

violence, that they will not breach peace and order

.That they will

allow every bird to fly and perch

would you give to youths ahead of Kogi state gubernatorial election? One thing about youths is that somebody can easily cash in on their ignorance, where you have many youths who are not employed it is easier for youths to get involved in thuggery, hooliganism and crimes and they pay dearly for that , there is law in Kogi state against thuggery. Anybody involve in thuggery will be dealt with because it is a very serious offence, anybody involving in kidnapping would face the full weight of law and may lose their lives. Many of them are being used by politicians and political actors.

What efforts has the state command put in place to ensure that Kogi state is one of safest state to live in the country? Well this aspiration, but we are still facing challenges of armed robbery, Kidnapping and cattle rustling. They are giving us a lot of problems, we are not sleeping as we have made a number of arrest and we will try our best to weed criminal elements out of Kogi State and make the state a safe haven for the residents. In the course of combating crimes in the state, some people, group and individuals have been accusing the police of engaging in judicial killings in the state. What is your take on this? I am not aware of this allegation as the state police commissioner. No officers of my command have ever committed judicial killings. Only cases where people mistakenly fall victims when there were robbery in a densely populated area and exchange of fire between the criminals and police and they are hit with stray bullet which is not very common anyway. We have not seen any petition from any quarters. We are trained to protect lives and not to take lives. Cattle rustling is fast becoming a daily occurrence in the country especially among the Fulani, what is the state command doing to curb cattle rustling in the state? Kogi police State Command is not resting on its oars. The command has just intercepted a total of 54 cows recently and arrested the suspects. Police will continue to keep vigil on our highways and other routes in the state.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

From The Civil Service

FCDA approves promotion of 581 VIO officers P.16

Council rues absence of national policy on fire safety

about a change in governance in Nigeria presented an opportunity for the fire and rescue services to develop a national fire safety policy for the country. It added that fire safe-

ty be seen as a security issue that affects the economic, political, social, cultural and psychological well-being of the people and thus eminently qualified as a security matter which affects the

entire country. “The absence of a National Fire Safety Policy constitutes insecurity of a national scale,” it submitted. It asserted that in the definition of security

both physical and material, the Fire Service roles were important enough to be considered as part of national security, calling for the unification of the Fire Services in Nigeria.

It added that the task of reinventing the fire service resided in the development of a National Policy on Fire Safety which was expected to specify the minimum acceptable standards for Nigeria. At the he event which had as its theme, “Fire Safety and Insurance: Insuring Public Buildings against Fire”, the council noted that the poor fire safety status of public buildings was responsible for their susceptibility to fire outbreak. It however recalled that the development of the National Fire Safety Code by stakeholders in the fire sector and built environment was to enhance effective fire management and control. The council draws membership from both federal and states political appointees as well as certain public servants who are responsible for issues bordering on fire services.

Chidi Ugwu,

institution. Agaga, an ND II, Business Administration student of FEDPOFFA won the race which took place at Ilorin Race Track in the state, according to a statement made available to by FEDPOFFA’s Students’ Union Government, SUG, Public Relations Officer, Olorunnisola Shodiq. He beat 441 students to win the prize. Team leader of the institution, Sangotayo Soji, praised Agaga for his

achievement, urging him to build on the performance. “In a chat with the head coach of the institution, Mr. Onijala, he (Sangotayo) stated that the marathon was held to foster the spirit of love and mutual understanding among the tertiary institutions in the state,” the release stated. The statement further stated that FEDPOFFA would always strive for the best wherever it is

represented, adding that the rating of the institution as the best first choice polytechnic by the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board in its last examination was a testimony to excellence embedded in the institution. “We are very delighted that Justice Agaga who represented the institution in the marathon race made us proud. It is a necessity to give juggernaut of encomium

to those who deserve it. This achievement indeed calls for celebration,” the released noted. Vice president and welfare director of the school’s SUG, Lateef Saheed, and Aderemi Dare, respectively, said in the statement that the union would always promote the best in students of the institution in order to encourage others to understand that no talent in the institution or anywhere in the world is a waste.

Omeiza Ajayi, ABUJA

he National Council on Fire has regretted the lack of a National Policy on Fire Safety in Nigeria, urging that the creation of such policy be considered an imperative for national security. Members of the council stated this in a communique issued at the weekend after its Seventh National Council on Fire which held in Minna. Signed by the chairman of the council and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Abubakar Magaji, the communique outlined a proposed “national policy to contain the philosophy, strategies, funding, partnership and collaboration and governance structure”. According to the council, most security threats, if not all culminate in fire or situation that require the intervention of firefighters. It noted that the absence of a national policy on fire safety was one manifestation of the neglect of the issue of safety of lives and properties against the menace of uncontrolled fires by successive administrations in Nigeria and was a reminder of the lack of political will by the political elites. The council was however quick to add that the existing enabling environment created by the present national leadership to bring

Outgoing Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mr. Danladi Kifasi (right), handing over to his successor, Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita, in Abuja, yesterday.

FEDPOFFA student wins UNILORIN’s N150, 000 anniversary prize ABUJA

student of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, FEDPOFFA, Kwara State, Justice Agaga, has clinched N150,000 grand prize for the marathon race organised by the University of Ilorin for tertiary institutions in the state. The race which took place recently was part of the activities marking 40th anniversary of the

Lack of hygiene places IDPs at increased risk –NGOs

P.16

FCTA to return 500 IDPs home P.41

Stakeholders seek ICT for universal healthcare by 2020 P.42

Civil Service

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Lack of hygiene places IDPs at increased risk –NGOs …donates relief materials to displaced persons in FCT Joel Ajayi ABUJA

r. Orode Doherty, Country Director of Africare Nigeria, a non-governmental

organisation, has appealed to all well-meaning Nigerians to come to the assistance of Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, in the country adding that lack of access to

clean water, combined with poor sanitation and hygiene facilities had puts IDPs at increased risk of disease. Doherty made the appeal yesterday in Abuja

at the commemoration of 2015 Global Hand Washing day when the organisation in collaboration with Power Forward and ExxonMobil donated mosquito nets,

L-R: Representative of Accountant-General of the Federation/Project Manager, Government Integrated Financial Management Information System, Mr. Destco Mugabi; FRSC Corps Marshal, Mr. Boboye Oyeyemi and Assistant Corps Marshal, Finance and Accounts, Mr. Dauda Biu, during the training of FRSC’s accountants on Treasury Single Accounts in Abuja, yesterday.

FCDA approves promotion of 581 VIO officers Chidi Ugwu, ABUJA

o fewer than 581 officers of the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DTRS) otherwise known as VIO were promoted in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA). According to a statement by the organisation’s Public Relations Officer, Kenechukwu Iloduba, the promotion exercise was carried out across board in fulfillment of a pledge by the director shortly after his appointment last year that he would make a case with the authorities for the elevation of staff whose promotions were said to have unduly stagnated for years, take immediate effect. The statement noted that Mr. Hassan Abubakar, a former Assistant Director in charge of Commercial/Head Finance and Mr. Kumsal Wuyep, a former Assistant Director Traffic Monitoring and Control

of the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) were elevated to the rank of Deputy Directors. National Mirror gathered that with their elevation to the rank of Deputy Director, there are now three substantive Deputy Directors in the flagship of traffic enforcement agency in the nation`s capital city headed by a Director , DCM Danjuma Aliyu Garba (rtd), Mni, a former Deputy Corps Marshall of the FRSC. Also promoted as Assistant Directors are, Mr. Tunde Aregbesola, and Mr. Dele Yaro, former Chief Traffic Officers in charge of monitoring/ evaluation, and operations unit respectively. The exercise also saw the DRTS spokesperson, Mr. K. K. Iloduba Jnr. promoted. He is now an Assistant Chief Scientific Officer 1 and still Head, Public Relations and Enlightenment. The Director, DCM Danjuma Garba , while decorating Hassan Abubakar as a new Deputy Director

and other top officers , said that their promotions were based on what he described as the recognition by the FCTA management of their `selfless devotion to duty and dedication to service which he noted had resulted in the rapid transformation of the operations and services of the DRTS in the past one year of the new dispensation in the agency. The director urged them to see their elevation as a reward for the services they had rendered, adding that it was also a call on them to continue to do more to raise the bar of professionalism in the agency towards the provision of excellent services to the public in consonance with the expectations of the FCTA management and the territory` s motoring public. Danjuma Garba stressed the need for the officers to be guided always in their official conduct by the existing rules and regulations of the directorate on probity, punctuality and efficiency,

particularly the federal government` s current policy on zero-tolerance for corruption. He warned them against acts capable of tarnishing the good image of the directorate and reiterated the FCTA` s commitment to their welfare and well-being in line with federal government ` s labour- friendly policies. Responding on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Hassan Abubakar thanked the FCTA management and the director for fulfilling their promise to ensure that they were promoted and gave assurance that they would reciprocate by showing more devotion and dedication to duty. According to him, the promotion came at a time that the activities of the directorate had continued to be on the rise owing to the unique transformation which the Danjuma Garba-led administration had created in the organisation. He pointed out also that because of the traffic that

washing hand bucket amongst others to one of the IDPs in Durumi, Abuja Municipal Area Council. Doherty described proper hand-washing as the best way to prevent many types of infections amongst IDPs. She said: “We are here today to celebrate Global Hand Washing day at Durumi IDPs camp in Abuja to increase awareness on the importance of hand washing, prevention of disease, and reduction of disease, clean environment, how to protect themselves and their children from diseases that lead to death in young children as well as maintaining nutrition in a safe manner.” Africare country director however, decried the deplorable conditions of people in the IDPs camps arising from the insurgents’ activities in the North-East. “This is not our first

was expected to increase following the appointment of ministers, advisers, and other functionaries of the new federal government, officers of the directorate should brace up for more operational challenges in the capital city. Mr. Hassan Abubakar is a graduate of Usman Danfodio University where he obtained a Masters degree in Finance. Before his deployment to DRTS in 2014 after about 13 years of service within the FCTA, he was Head, Reconciliation and Expenditure; head of budget and Assistant Director in charge of Finance at the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC). Mr. Wuyep is an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University who started work with FCDA in 1990; while Tunde Aregbesola holds Masters degrees in Public Administration and Transport Management from the University of Abuja and Ladoke Akintola University, Ogbomosho respectively.

time in this camp, we have been here before, we have a very good idea about the facilities that are in this camp; we know that there is no running water, at some level they are practising open defecation and these are some of the things we are trying to reduce by coming here to sensitise them on. “We need a running water source, we need a clean toilet which they can be taught how to use. They have been here at least a year, if all these are provided it will make a huge difference. So, I want to use this medium to call on relevant authorities for urgent intervention.” She added that the need to counsel the pregnant women on the importance of baby breast-feeding as well as the need for them to focus on the first 1000 days of their baby lives was also reason they visited the camp “We know condition here are not great, very soon we will prioritise sanitation, immunisation and health nutrition. That is why we are here with GSS Wuse Zone 3 the winner of our project ‘power forward’ in various skill programmes targeting toward teaching them about life skills, leadership public health literacy, ” she said. Speaking on behalf of IDPs, the chairman of the Durumi IDPs camp, Muhammad Gowza, commended the gesture of the foundation, saying this would go a long way in ameliorating the suffering of the people. Gowza appealed to the federal government as well as Nigerians to come to the aid of the people whom he put at over 1,539, mostly women and children for them to have access to basic things of life such as healthy environment, potable water, food and shelter before being relocated to their places of abode.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Monsters of crimes and terrorism in Nigeria CHIEDU UCHE OKOYE

here is no country in our today’s world that is crime-free. Since evil traits and tendencies inhere in human beings, crimes or criminal deeds should be expected. People indulge in anti-social deeds and execute criminal acts for diverse reasons. Unemployed people carry out cyber-crimes and other financial misdemeanors in order to acquire money. And there are sexual perverts, who perpetrate sexual crimes like rape to satisfy their sexual cravings. Some unscrupulous civil servants in the top cadre of both state and federal civil service cook the books and engage in sordid and sundry financial misdemeanors in order to become rich. Now passion crime is on the upsurge in Nigeria. Some men, who were jilted by their female friends, even scores with them by bathing them with corrosive liquid. Is Nigeria, therefore, a banana state that has been overrun by a band of armed robbers and kidnappers? Armed robbers, equipped with sophisticated arms and weapons, would put our ill-equipped and demoralized policemen on the run. More so, kidnapping has become a booming business in Nigeria. Dare-devil kidnappers had abducted high profile Nigerians in the past. Those unfortunates didn’t regain their freedoms until they paid huge ransoms to the kidnappers.

In the recent past, Donu Kogbara, the bluestocking, who would dazzle us in her weekly column in the Vanguard newspaper with insightful, incisive, and educative articles, spent weeks in the kidnapper’s dingy dungeon. And the venerableChief Olu Falae, who was Nigeria’s former SGF, was kidnapped in his farm by the peripatetic and murderous Fulani herdsmen. While in their captivity, he was denied food and exposed to the harsh elements. It is believed that the families of Falae and Kogbara paid ransoms to their abductors. The wife of Steve Nwosu was a victim of kidnapping too. The kidnappers stormed the house of the ace journalist, bundled his wife into their car, and sped off. Has Nigeria not regressed to the Hobbessian state, where life is short, brutish, and nasty? Truly, human lives are worth less than a shekel in Nigeria. But our security agencies are not living up to expectations. They appear to be overwhelmed by the felonious and murderous activities of kidnappers and armed robbers. In developed countries, police personnel rely on intelligence gathering to combat crimes. They’re pro-active while performing their onerous duty of fighting crimes. They can pre-empt the plans of armed robbers and kidnappers by acting fast. Can that be said about our police force? The fact is, Nigeria is now in the grip of terror. Not a few people believed that

DEVELOPED

COUNTRIES , POLICE PERSONNEL RELY ON INTELLIGENCE GATHERING TO COMBAT CRIMES President Muhammadu Buhari’s ascendance into the loft of power would bring about the cessation of bomb explosions in Nigeria. Now, in Nigeria, bomb explosions are occurring with increasing frequency and lethal and devastating consequences instead of abating. That is a proof that the North’s loss of political power in the past has nothing to do with the Boko Haram group’s vow to Islamize that part of the country. The murderous Boko Haram insurgents are running riot in the north-east of Nigeria now. Recently, they exploded bombs in Abuja, the federal capital territory, killing scores of people in the process. And they stormed and attacked a town in Yobe State, killing tens of people there. Can our security forces eradicate the Boko Haram incubus from our polity? Who does not know that the unchecked bombing activities of Boko Haram insurgents can cause Nigeria to bowl over? More so, the peripatetic Fulani herdsmen have upped their ante of vio-

lence with the abduction of Chief Falae and the serial invasion of his farm. Those pastoralists with murderous intent are known to attack members of their host communities. Their cattle do destroy farmlands. And when the owners of the farms accost them, fight would ensue between the Fulani cattle rearers and the farmers. They have a history and notoriety for engaging in bloody conflicts with farmers. From Nassarawa to Jos, and to Benue, they have become a pain in the neck of rural farmers. The maintenance of law and order in a country is an antidote to the emergence of anarchic situation there. And the containment of terrorist groups, kidnappers, and armed robbers in Nigeria will guarantee us peace and unity. So, it is incumbent on our President to re-engineer our security apparatchik, and devise effective methods of eradicating kidnapping and other criminal activities in Nigeria. I would like our President to know that Nigerian’s strength lies in its diversities. And the disintegration of Nigeria can cause political instability in our neighboring countries as millions of armed and displaced people will migrate to our neighboring countries. Okoye, a poet and civil servant, wrote from Uruowulu – Obosi, Anambra State and can be reached on 08062220654

We need a Mandela in Nigeria L OLADE A KINMURELE

n 1985 P.W. Botha, as President of South Africa, said: “Let us all accept the ‘black’ man is the symbol of poverty, mental inferiority, laziness and emotional incompetence...Does anyone of you believe that the ‘blacks’ can rule this country?” Nelson Mandela would go on to prove Botha wrong. He proved that a black man could take the initiative of addressing a problem that extended beyond his nose to affect as much as an entire country, and he went on to rule that country. Mandela gave a speech once where he noted: “A fundamental concern for others in our individual and community lives would go a long way in making the world the better place we so passionately dreamt of.” He was committed to the greater good than to his own good and the good of his relatives. The question here is how many of us have the ‘Mandela spirit’? How many of us honor the words in Philippians 2:3, which say: “And look out for one another’s interests, not just for your own”. How many of us realize these words could unlock greatness? Nelson used this principle and did it make him great? We are mandated by God to collaborate our efforts with His to make the world a better place. In Gen.3:23, God gave man the mandate to “till” the soil from which he was created. The synonyms of “till” are “cultivate”, “improve” etc. Hence, a clearer understanding of this mandate is to cultivate/improve the earth (the

WE ARE ONLY A

FIGMENT OF OUR

IMAGINATION, AND OUR IMAGINATION HAS BEEN SHAPED BY OUR BELIEFS soil from which we were made). The problem with most Africans is that rather than till the earth and its people, they are only interested in tilling for only themselves and their immediate family. They are only interested in being solutions to the challenges that face them as a family rather than go further to develop the interest in being solutions to the challenges that face them as a community, as a nation, as a continent and as inhabitants of the world. Let us examine Nigerians in next few sentences. A people who in the face of so many challenges are nonchalant, insensitive and primitive; a people who have resorted to greedy accumulation of wealth to secure the future of their children, while they recklessly risk the future of orphans and other children who are innocent and helpless; a people who rather than concern themselves with their plight as a group, concern themselves with their plight as individuals. I guess Botha was right to assert that colour isn’t the only God made difference between ‘Blacks’ and ‘Whites’ but also their level of intellect. My question is: What justification does the white man have for being ‘white’

when the colour of his skin isn’t particularly white? Could it be as a result of the content of his character? It is the typical character of majority of Nigerians to be unperturbed and unalarmed by their poverty stricken predicament in a land filled with milk and honey. But can we establish the root cause of this attitude? Yes, we can. We are only a figment of our imagination, and our imagination has been shaped by our beliefs and our beliefs by our environment. Our environment today is the result of the foundation laid by the Belgian missionaries in the 1800s. King Leopold II of Belgium gave a notable speech to indoctrinate the Belgian missionaries headed to Africa. In his speech, we are made to understand that the foundation laid for our dysfunctional structures today was a conscious effort to keep us away from emancipation. The following are excerpts from King Leopold’s ‘not so famous’ speech: - “You have to keep watch on disinteresting our savages from the richness that is plenty [in their underground” - “Make them disrespect everything which gives courage to affront us”. - “Teach students to read and not to reason”. - “And make sure that niggers never become rich. Sing every day that it’s impossible for the rich to enter heaven”. Aren’t these obvious reasons why we rather read and talk about the problems facing us as a country than reason deep enough to act and take the initia-

tive of finding solutions? Aren’t these obvious reasons why we have low participation in the political affairs of our country? Aren’t these obvious reasons why we are not courageous enough to challenge the social inequality in the country? Aren’t these obvious reasons why we embrace poverty in the midst of surplus wealth? Are you going to remain a product of the polluted systems and structures of King Leopold 11 and his Belgian missionaries, or will you emancipate yourself and be a catalyst for change? Remember “Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth”- J.F. Kennedy. Africa’s future is in the hands of those who will think differently and make the conscious decision not to act in conformity with the current structures and system because these structures and systems were never designed with you and I in mind. The time for a paradigm shift in Nigeria is NOW! We need Nigerians who would passionately aim at being a success and be determined to be a force to reckon with on the international stage like Mandela was. Akinmurele, founder of Proletariat Nigeria, is a reporter with this newspaper and can be followed on twitter @proletariatNG 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

Editorial

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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

Lagos rising insecurity profile and police response

hat the crime wave is on the increase in Lagos in recent months is no longer in contention. Incidentally, of the nation’s 36 states, and perhaps with the exception of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Lagos State is respected as the foremost in terms of premium attention to and huge investment in matters concerning security. Working in close collaboration with the police, the state maintains a special security outfit – the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) – which is always on its toes doing good battle with hoodlums at a time. It does seem, however, that the fight has lost steam in the light of recent developments. Beginning from the first quarter of this year, dare-devil armed robbers have successfully raided banks at LekkiAjah axis as well as Ikorodu virtually unchallenged by the police. When they raided a bank in Ajah in broad daylight last March, for instance, the robbers killed three policemen and one passerby, operating without qualms for roughly one hour. In a recent bank robbery in FESTAC Town, the robbers’ stray bullet hit and killed a mother, Mrs. Jane Beluchukwu-Ndirika and her 14-month-old daughter, Nmesoma, right inside their two-bedroom apartment on the top floor of a three-storey building. If, however,

ANY CONDITION THAT IS GRADUALLY USHERING

LAGOS INTO A STATE

OF ANOMIE SHOULD BE FRONTALLY TACKLED reports about the foot-dragging of the police while the robbery operation lasted are true, then there is grave cause for concern. A woman, Uche, who identified herself as the slain nurse’s friend, and whose visit coincided with the tragic death of Mrs. BeluchukwuNdirika and her daughter, was quoted as saying: “… I watched my friend die and I could not do much to help her. Please do not even talk about police because they did not come out. The armed robbers took their time; they were loading bullets into their guns and were shooting and discussing among themselves. From this room, we heard them shouting and telling their colleagues to come out; it looks like they were just enjoying themselves without interruption”. A neighbour who corroborated Uche’s observation, one Mr. John Irabor, also said: “They mounted their machine gun just by the junction here. They were shooting repeatedly. I am very disappointed with the police because I personally called them. I called the Area Com-

mander and I also called the state command’s Public Relations Officer, who assured me they were on their way. Unfortunately, the police did not show up until the robbers had fled”. However, the Area Commander, Area E, under which FESTAC Division of the police falls, Mr. Frank Mba, told newsmen shortly after the incident that his Command, on receiving information on the bank robbery at about 8:25am on the illfated Tuesday, promptly dispatched a joint team of policemen from Area ‘E’ Command and FESTAC Division to the scene of crime. “On arrival at the scene, the policemen engaged a gang of armed robbers numbering well over 40, all dressed in military camouflage and armed to the teeth. The police engaged them in a fierce gun battle that lasted several minutes…The hot exchange of fire between policemen and the robbers…forced the robbers to end their operations abruptly”, Mba said. That the robbers fled, abandoning the sum of N27 million they already snatched, as well as 240 live ammunitions and an AK-47 rifle seems an indication that there was truly some kind of police intervention. But the disconnect between the tales of the friend and neighbour of the late Mrs. Beluchukwu-Ndirika equally suggests very strongly that the intervention

ON THIS DAY

probably came rather late. Indeed, it is common knowledge that the police have come to be routinely associated with the notoriety of arriving late to crime scenes after the escape of robbers. Complementing largely unchecked bank assaults by robbers in the state are robberies against residents in their homes and on the streets, especially in traffic gridlocks; cult-gang violence; ritual killings and kidnappings, etc. Gradually, the ‘Centre of Excellence’ may relapse into a jungle where criminals are in charge should the state government and the police fail to stem the tide with the seriousness it deserves. We think it is high time Governor Akinwunmi Ambode-led state government and the police revisited the crime-fighting template on ground in Lagos with a view to reinvigorating it. It is now lax. Like every other security agency, the police, if not well kitted, would naturally avoid confronting dangerously armed bandits. It’s like embarking on a suicide mission. Therefore, any condition that is gradually ushering Lagos into a state of anomie should be frontally tackled and the necessary incentives given to the police to reverse what seems to have become their pastime of surfacing at crime scenes when the criminals might have bolted.

October 28, 2006

October 28, 2009

October 28, 2014

The funeral service took place for those executed at Bykivnia forest, outside Kiev, Ukraine. Roughly 817 Ukrainian civilians (out of some 100,000) executed by Bolsheviks at Bykivnia in the 1930s – early 1940s were reburied. The Bolsheviks were a faction of the Marxist Russian Social Democratic Labour Party (RSDLP) which split apart from the Menshevik faction at the Second Party Congress in 1903.

The Peshawar bombing killed 117 people and wounded 213 others. The bombing occurred in Peshawar, Pakistan, when a car bomb was detonated in a Mina Bazar (Market for women and children) of the city. Pakistani government officials believed the Taliban was responsible, but both Taliban and Al-Qaeda sources denied involvement in the attack. The incident drew harsh international criticisms.

An unmanned ‘Antares rocket’ carrying NASA’s Cygnus CRS Orb-3 resupply mission to the International Space Station exploded seconds after taking off from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport in Virginia, United States. Antares is an expendable launch system developed by Orbital Sciences Corporation (now Orbital ATK) to launch the Cygnus spacecraft to the International Space Station.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Health & Wellbeing Breast cancer: Faulty Machine, late presentation killing patients 22

More Nigerians may die of HIV/AIDS unless... 21

Polio-free world imminent! SAM EFERARO

or the first time, Nigeria joined countries with zero polio cases to mark the World Polio Day last Saturday amidst cautious global optimism that a polio-free world is within grasp. But experts agree that much still need to be done to achieve the feat. In a press statement on the eve of World Polio Day, the United Nation Children Fund (UNICEF) enthused that fewer children now contract the poliovirus. “Never before in the history of polio have so few children in so few countries contracted the crippling virus – but we cannot rest until the number of cases is zero,” the organisation said, adding that progress to end polio is real and dramatic, with now just two countries in the world, Afghanistan and Pakistan , where the wild poliovirus has never been interrupted. “But – and it’s a big but – until all children everywhere are consistently and routinely immunized against polio, the threat remains. We cannot let down our guard; we have to keep going until there is not a single child anywhere who remains unvaccinated,” Peter Crowley, head of the Polio Unit at UNICEF said. UNICEF further noted that “Just three years ago”, Nigeria was the reservoir of more than half of all polio cases in the world. “This year, for the first time in history, Nigeria has succeeded in interrupting transmission of wild poliovirus, and last month it was removed from the list of polio endemic countries. Nigeria’s remarkable achievement has brought the country and the African region closer than ever to being certified polio-free. “In India, where thousands of children once suffered from polio-induced paralysis each year, there have been no cases in four years. Globally there have been just 51 cases of wild polio virus since the beginning of 2015, compared with 242 wild polio cases for 2014. “These successes are a result of political will and government leadership in affected

•Stakeholders rejoice on World Polio Day •Harp on tasks ahead for total eradication

countries; the strong mobilization and engagement of communities; the courage and commitment of front-line workers; and the combined, coordinated efforts of the partners of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative – the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, Rotary International, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and UNICEF.” But the World Health Organisation (WHO) warned that countries must not relent in the global polio eradication effort, saying there is still much to do to turn “this delicate progress” into concrete gains. “Vaccinating every child, improving surveillance, strengthening routine immunization systems and maintaining the commitments of governments and communities are

keys to keeping Africa polio free,” the organisation noted concerning Nigeria’s recent achievement. “The outbreaks of wild poliovirus that occurred in the Middle East, Central Africa and the Horn of Africa in 2013 seem to have been brought to an end, but much work still needs to be done to ensure that the virus really has gone from vulnerable countries and to prevent it from returning. “There remains a serious risk that some children are not being reached regularly by vaccination teams in areas left vulnerable by insecurity, weak health systems or population movements. That is why the GPEI continues to work on strengthening the basic delivery of immunization services, to supplement immunization wherever and whenever possible

Survivors of polio in Kano State, Nigeria, sit on tricycles specially designed for people with disabilities. Photo: UNICEF

with campaigns, using the most potent tool to stop polio outbreaks – oral polio vaccine – and being very thorough in finding and vaccinating children who are missed for any reason.” WHO however stressed that “maintaining and improving surveillance systems is critical to ensuring that any virus is rapidly found so it can be responded to quickly and effectively; surveillance programmes are especially crucial in the years following the last detected case of polio in order to be confident that polio transmission has been stopped.” Meanwhile WHO Regional Director for Africa, , Dr Matshidiso Moeti, is already looking beyond polio saying the lessons from polio eradication must be built on to ensure that no child dies from vaccine preventable diseases. Dr Moeti listed government leadership, innovation, the heroism of health workers and the unique public-private partnership model of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative as the critical factors behind the success of polio eradication in reducing polio cases by over 99%. With the eradication of polio closer than ever before, Dr Moeti called on leaders to commit to financing polio eradication; to utilize funding to ensure that new vaccines are reaching the poorest and most marginalised children; to strengthen surveillance, and improve the performance of routine immunization.

Health & Wellbeing

Nutrition for Health

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Why you should read nutritional labels on drugs, packaged food

at least five portions of a variety every day such as some proteinrich foods like meat, fish, pulses and milk and dairy foods. Though many manufacturers state the contents of the products on the packets by using colour code, it is not everybody that knows what the colours stand for. Some frontof-pack nutrition labels use red, amber and green colourcoding. Red means high; amber means medium and green means low. If you buy a food that has all or mostly green lights, you know straight away that it is a healthier choice. Amber light means neither high nor low, so you can eat foods with all or mostly amber lights most of the time. But a red light means the food is high in fat, saturated fat, salt or sugars and these are the foods we should cut down on. Try to eat these foods less often and in small amounts. Most pre-packed food products also have a list of ingredients on the packaging or on an attached label. The ingredi-

Chizoba Benson chizobanwobu@yahoo.com 08120807588 (sms only)

utrition label is guidance or a summary of the required statements that must appear on drug or food labels under the laws and regulations that guides their production and consumption in any community, society or nation in relation to accepted global standards. In this vein, nutritionists are health experts who know the right food for sound health, just as pharmacists’ advice people about the right drug for any ailment with reference to the composition of the drug and its label. In the same vein, manufacturers-nutritionists’ labels help you to choose a more balanced diet. They also help to make you cut down on fat (especially saturated fat), salt and added sugars; base your meals on starchy foods such as potatoes, bread, pasta and rice, choosing wholegrain where possible; and eat lots of fruit and vegetables. Aim for

ents list can also help you work out how healthy the product is. Ingredients are listed in order of weight, so the main ingredients in the packaged food always come first. That means that if the first few ingredients are high-fat ingredients, such as cream, butter or oil, then the food in question is a highfat food. However, there are some tips that you can rely on for shopping stated in the following paragraphs. If you are buying ready meals, check to see if there is a nutrition label on the front of the pack, and then see how your choices stack up when it comes to the amount of energy, fat, saturated fat,

sugars and salt. If the nutrition labels use colour-coding, you will often find a mixture of red, amber and green. So, when you are choosing between similar products, try to go for more greens and ambers, and fewer reds, if you want to make a healthier choice. But remember that even healthier ready meals may be higher in fat and energy than the homemade equivalent. If you make the meal yourself, you could save money, too. Therefore, it is very important that you should always check the label of any drug or consumable food item packaged for sales at any depart-

mental store or eatery centre, before buying it for consumption. Nonetheless, though most pre-packed foods have a nutrition label on the back or side of the packaging; many people don’t care to read it to know the nutritional composition. Nutrition labels usually include information on energy in kilojoules (kJ) or kilocalories (kcal), usually referred to as calories. They also include information on protein, carbohydrate and fat. They may provide additional information on saturated fat, sugars, sodium and salt. All nutrition information is provided per 100 grams and sometimes per portion of the food.

Sexual solutions and love products for adults I have a small and short penis and my woman’s vagina is wide. Please how can I increase my penis that will never have side effects? Your assistance and advice is needed. Thanks – Jeremy Dear Jeremy, here are many options for penis enlargement. At the moment Vimax and Extenze Maximum Strength supplement are our two best available penis enlargement options so I will recommend any of these two. You can get up to four inches in length and an additional inch in thickness especially if you combine the supplement with a Penis Enlargement Pump. That is how you get lasting penis enlargement and yes it has no side effects. The good thing about penis enlargement is that you also develop stronger erections months down the line as your penis begins to grow. But the enlargement effect is the first thing you will notice and this begins from around the third week. It is gradual. By your sixth month, you would have gained your maximum length – Uche My name is Usman and I am in my late forties. I have weak erection and premature ejaculation. I don’t need medicine that I will take before sex. I need medicine that will cure me for good – Usman Usman the only scenario where you can get the kind of treatment you are looking for is in a situation where an illness, surgery or substance is the cause of your weak erection. For instance diabetes affects one’s erection because the medicine taken for diabetes weakens the erection. Now to cure this erection weakness in this situation requires that one first cures the diabetes. Unfortunately, diabetes has no cure. Another example is alcohol related erectile dysfunction. If you are a heavy drinker and alcohol is the

cause of your erectile dysfunction then fixing that problem permanently requires that you stop taking alcohol. So these are the instances where you can get a permanent cure for your erectile dysfunction and this cure in question does not come in the form of the performance enhancers we sell or talk about. Here is something else you need to know. Men are at the peak of their sexual powers between the ages of 19 and 23. After that, a man’s sexual capability begins a slow and steady decline over the years. Once that is the case with you, there is no cure for that just like there is no cure for aging. These performance enhancers we write about are like vitamins. They can help you perform well while you are taking them but they cannot cure you permanently because they cannot reverse nature. They cannot stop the adverse effects of aging. That is just the way it is. So now that you understand it, I suggest you get the help you need. It doesn’t have to be a daily medication if you don’t like taking drugs daily. You can always go for the stronger supplements that you can take once or twice a week like Power Zen or Boss Rhino and any of these will also help you with your premature ejaculation and overall performance – Uche Hello there. Please I need your help. My female partner is giving me problems. What could have happened to her that no matter the foreplay, her vagina only gets a little wet. And if I try to enter, it will not open. Because it is as if the vagina is sealed and she is not a virgin. Please what drug can we use to expand it? Solomon Solomon your girlfriend does not need vaginal expansion. No such procedure is necessary. From everything you have said, I

suspect her hymen is still in place. The hymen is a thin mucous membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening when a woman is still a virgin. Sometimes the hymen is broken on the first sexual attempt and at other times, it takes several sexual sessions to completely push it open. In any case all you need at the moment is a lubricant and a gentle approach to love making. That is all. Use a lubricant as directed and before you know it, you will be able to have intercourse without problems – Uche I just want to thank you for your advice and everything you do. You helped me a great deal when you recommended Stay Hard Delay Cream for my premature ejaculation. Now I am able to last well – Chinedu Thanks for the Volume Pills. Two weeks into taking it and my semen in thicker and plenty Frank And that

is it for today. Adults in need of these treatments/novelties can call 08171912551, 08027901621 or 07086754515 for help or visit www. zeevirtualmedia.com Zee Virtual Media delivers all over Nigeria. For enquiries email us at custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com- Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Health & Wellbeing

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

More Nigerians may die of HIV/AIDS unless... ... NEPWHAN BoT chairman says only few PLWAs have access to life-saving drugs

FRANKA OSAKWE

n estimated 2.8 million Nigerians may be on their

way to early grave if not provided with required treatment, Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nige-

ria, NEPWHAN, Pharm. Abdulrahaman Momodu has warned. Momodu gave the warning recently in Abuja at the inauguration of new

executive members of the group. He informed that there was an estimated figure of above 3.5 million people living with the disease in

Outstanding Journalist for September 2015 in Health Journalists’ Academy powered by Roche, National Mirror’s Health Correspondent, Franka Osakwe (middle) receiving a prize from (left) Country Manager, Roche Product Limited, Mr. Herman Addae and Senior Consultant, The Quadrant Company, Mrs. Tosin Adefeko at the October Breakfast Meeting sponsored by Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation of Nigeria (CEAFON), last Thursday.

WHO recommends pilot implementation of first malaria vaccine SAM EFERARO

he World Health Organization’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) and the Malaria Policy Advisory Committee (MPAC) have jointly recommended pilot projects to understand how to best use a vaccine that protects against malaria in young children. “This was a historic meeting with two of WHO’s major advisory committees working together to consider current evidence about this

vaccine,” said Professor Fred Binka, acting chair of MPAC. “The committees agreed that pilot implementations should be the next step with this vaccine.” The vaccine, known as RTS,S, is the first vaccine for malaria, but there is one primary question. It requires four doses for a child to be fully protected and therefore requires additional contacts with the health care system. The first three doses are given one month apart followed by an 18-month pause before the fourth dose. Without the fourth dose, children had no

overall reduction in severe malaria. “The question about how the malaria vaccine may best be delivered still need to be answered,” said Professor Jon S. Abramson, chair of SAGE. “After detailed assessment of all the evidence we recommended that this question is best addressed by having 3-5 large pilot implementation projects.” The malaria vaccine, RTS,S, acts against P. falciparum, the most deadly malaria parasite globally, and the most prevalent in Africa. It offers no protec-

tion against P. vivax malaria, which predominates in many countries outside of Africa. The vaccine is being assessed as a complementary malaria control tool that could potentially be added to—but not replace—the core package of proven malaria preventive, diagnostic and treatment measures. In other sessions during the SAGE meeting, held from 20-22 October, the group reviewed evidence and offered recommendations on the development and use of vaccines against Ebola virus, poliovirus and measles.

Nigeria health care system, a paradox –Former AMLS chair ADEOLA TUKURU ABUJA

ormer Chairman of Abuja Medical Laboratory Scientists (AMLS), FCT chapter, Dr Ifeanyi Casmir, has described Nigeria’s health care system as a paradox saying that if the key capacities in the country were built and sustained on, it would have repositioned to become the hub of medical tourism. In an exclusive interview, Casmir explained that “If you go to health facilities outside the shores of Nige-

ria you are going to certainly find Nigerian doctors providing care in other parts of the country. “That simply means we have really cut out teeth’s as professionals to provide service globally and we are at the cutting edge of capacity and skills, unfortunately at home the story is not the same. According to him, the country had the capacity to produce vaccines, but as at today all the vaccines produced are imported but “then we were producing yellow fever vaccine for local use and export but today the

capacity is lost” . “f you don’t have home grown capacities you are very vulnerable so Nigeria as a nation is vulnerable health wise because people can package anything and ship down to us here. “The memories of the Pfizer vaccine scandals in Kano are still fresh in our memories that make us vulnerable. The long year of military rules introduced impunity in the Nigeria health sector destroyed the health care administrative system. “ The major challenge we had the Nigeria health

system is the health care administrative system were hegemony and monolithic emphasis on a given profession is now robbing off on us. We have really misinterpreted globally as clinical governance to replace the health care administrative system. “Almost 95 percent drugs in Nigeria are generic drugs produced from China, why can’t we build this capacity to produce it locally don’t we train pharmacists anymore we do , our pharmacists can compete favourable with their contemporaries anywhere in the world,” he said.

the country. “Out of these, only about 700,000 have access to antiretroviral treatment. In absolute terms, it means that 2.8 million Nigerians have no access to treatment. It also means in effect that about 2.8 million Nigerians may be on their way to an untimely death if the government does not act fast to arrest the situation. “To worsen the already devastating situation, donor partners are reducing their funding support for HIV/AIDS in Nigeria for reasons which may not be unconnected with the belief that Nigeria, being a rich country, is capable of taking care of its citizens. “This situation has further increased the vulnerability of people living with the infection. The sad news, also, is that people living with HIV/AIDS now pay for services that used to be free and those that are unable to pay are left with no option than to go home and die. Let me say at this point that it is a big risk for the country to leave over 3.5 million Ni-

gerians living with HIV/ AIDS at the mercy of donor partners.” It would be recalled that Nigeria is second most burdened nation with the ailment, trailing South Africa. Millions of people have been confirmed dead of the virus in Nigeria. Momodu emphasized that government in the country must take full responsibility for the prevention and treatment of the disease in the country. This, he noted, would promote the nation’s determination to eliminate the disease and by implication save lives that are being lost to it. He challenged the new leaders of the association to eschew self-aggrandizement and deliver on their mandates. Outgone Coordinator of the group, Edward Ogenyi, said he had been part of leadership of NEPWHAN since 2000. According to him, he had placed the association on high pedestal for his successor to build on. “As regards service to our fatherland, I think I have paid my dues,” he said.

Researchers list products expectant mothers should avoid

xpectant mothers in their first trimester should avoid certain cosmetics, cleaning agents and medicines, to protect the developing fetal brain from chemicals that can trigger autism, York U health researchers have found. “The products that we use on a daily basis, such as creams and cosmetics, contain chemicals that could potentially affect a developing baby during pregnancy,” says Professor Dorota Crawford in the School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Faculty of Health. The list is long: cleaning solvents, pesticides, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as acetylsalicylic acid; misoprostol (a drug used for inducing labor); polychlorinated bisphenyls used as industrial lubricants; polybrominated diphenyl ethers found in wood and textiles; phthalates in PVC flooring, children’s toys, and cosmetics and lotions. The researchers, Crawford and co-authors Chris-

tine Wong and Joshua Wais, report that aside from the type of chemical a pregnant woman is exposed to, the duration, the frequency and the concentration level also impact a developing brain at the prenatal stage. “We recommend that women learn about health effects from exposure to chemical substances in the environment,” says PhD candidate Wong, adding that assessment information is found in the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) database maintained by the US Environmental Protection Agency. According to the researchers, prenatal brain development undergoes constant changes and its normal functioning depends greatly on the presence of specific genes at any given time. Since environmental factors influence the expression levels of these critical genes, it is important for an expectant mother to be aware and cautious of exposure to these factors.

Health & Wellbeing

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Breast cancer: Faulty Machine, late presentation killing patients FRANKA OSAKWE

wenty-eight-year-old Rose laid at the rear end of the surgical female ward A4 of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), quietly moaning, tossing and turning with pain on her bed. She has stage IV breast cancer which has spread to her lungs, liver and legs causing her severe pains. She could barely speak audibly as she relates her story to National Mirror correspondent. According to her, about one year ago, she noticed a lump on her right breast that was unusually bulky. Without the slightest idea that she could have cancer, she went to a chemist shop and bought antibiotics. “When the lump refused to go away, I decided to try herbal drug. I took herbal drugs for a while but instead of going away, the lump got bigger and painful. That was when I went to LUTH where I was diagnosed with a grade 2 invasive ductal carcinoma. My left breast was cut off, following doctor’s diagnosis and advice. After about 3 month’s chemotherapy session, Rose was referred for a radiotherapy session but the machine at the teaching hospital had broken down. She was told to go to National hospital Abuja for radiation treatment. “Although I had exhausted all my savings, I still manage to borrow money and travel to Abuja. The day I went to Abuja, the queue was too long and they could not attend to me that day. The following day I started my treatment but few days later, it was stopped and postponed because the machine became faulty. In frustration, I returned to Lagos”, she said. Six months later, Rose said she started losing weight, with severe headache and vomiting. She was readmitted at LUTH and according to the explanation by a Consultant Oncologist at LUTH, Dr. Muhammed Habeebe, her breast cancer had metastasized (spread) to the lungs, liver and spine. He also said the spread could have resulted from the delay in radiation therapy. A statement given by the Head of Department, Department of Radiation Biology, Radiotherapy Radiodiagnosis and Radiography, LUTH, Prof. Remi Ajekigbe in a telephone interview confirmed that the linear accelerator at LUTH had broken down and needs to be repaired. He also admitted that the current situation has delayed and denied many patients treatment.

A breast cancer patient waiting for radiotherapy

“When you delay treatment cancer spreads. A Stage 2 patient may become Stage 3 then Stage 4 and by the time the machine is working again, the patient is dead. There is no reason why these machines should break down because there will be no alternative for those patients”, he said. For Rose, her stage 4 cancer means she could no longer be cured of her cancer. Dr. Habeebe told National Mirror that cancers can only be cured at the early stage such as stage 1 or 2 but when advanced to stage 4, the sufferer has only a limited time to live depending on management. With Rose currently on systemic chemotherapy treatment and palliative drugs, the doctors are hoping to control further spread of the disease so that Rose could be able to live for more years. Her case is similar to that of another 46 year old woman at Radiotherapy ward of University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, who was undergoing treatment for stage IV HERS-2 Positive breast cancer,

which has spread to the bones, lungs and hip. She looked frail, withered and kept writhing in pain ceaselessly. With her head bald, a common effect of chemotherapy, she was on intravenous drip and also placed on oxygen. Around May this year, the Cobalt-60 radiotherapy machine at UCH had broken down so patients were referred to Abuja or Usman Danfodio University Teaching Hospital Sokoto, for radiation treatments. Like her counterpart in LUTH, lack of radiotherapy has affected the patient’s treatment. She was currently placed on morphine, other anti-inflammatory drug and chemotherapy all aimed at controlling further spread and treating symptom. This is the situation of most cancer patients in Nigeria with many succumbing to death from the disease. This month’s breast cancer month celebration comes with the glaring report that the disease is now the commonest female cancer in the country, with high death rate of 17,000 and 27,000 new cases re-

Prof. Durotinmi-etti

Prof. Okoye

ported annually. Over 70 per cent of these patients are diagnosed at late stages III and IV. A Consultant Radiation Oncologist, Dr Omolola Salako, who gave this report, during her presentation on breast cancer at the Health Journalist Academy (HJA) training in Lagos, said late presentation, is one of the reasons for low survival in the country. Most patients come to the hospital when the disease has already spread to lymph nodes or distant organs, an Associate Professor and consultant pathologist at LUTH, Dr Adetola Daramola further enlightened. “Metastasis (cancer spread) is the leading cause of mortality in patient diagnosed with breast cancer in Nigeria. Unlike in the developed countries where survival rate is 80 per cent, in Nigeria more and more women continue to lose their lives to breast cancer”, she explained, during her own presentation. One of the reasons she gave, that makes women present late at hospital, is due to fear of mastectomy (surgical removal of breast). “But women need to know that these days, not all women diagnosed with breast cancer need to cut their breast. With the latest advancement in treatment, molecular testing can now be done to know the type of breast cancer a person has. If it is a hormone receptor positive cancer, hormone therapy can be administered. If it is HERS-2 positive, an aggressive type of breasts cancer that multiplies fast, HERS-2 positive therapy can be used with chemotherapy, so the patient can have better outcome unlike before when these drugs were not avail-

able”, she said. The oncologist explained that most breast cancer deaths are due to advanced cancers, diagnosed when the disease have already spread to lymph nodes or distant organs. On why patients seek treatment when the disease has advanced, a professor of radiology and consultant at the UNN Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Prof Ifeoma Okoye, blamed it on ignorant and lack of awareness about the disease. She said at the UNTH, Enugu, for instance, about two new breast cancer cases are seen each week while about 15-20 cases are also seen in the oncology clinic each clinic day, yet ignorance about the disease remain high. Aside late presentation, lack of cancer facilities and breakdown of machines are worsening treatment. According to Prof. Okoye, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that countries should have at least One Radiotherapy Unit per One Million populations. Unfortunately, Nigeria currently has about 10 radiotherapy machines in tertiary hospitals across the country. “These machines suffer from epileptic function; today they are functioning, tomorrow they have broken down. This has causes a lot of anguish and inconvenience to the patients and the incessant breakdowns also affect management and response adversely. “Going by IAEA & WHO recommendation and assuming a conservative population of 160 million, Nigeria ought to have 160 Radiotherapy Units functioning efficiently in-country. If we look at other facilities for Cancer management, like CT Scan, we are also very deficient serving the entire population of 160 million people”, she said. Another Professor of Radiology, Prof. Durotinmi-etti, also worried that the country’s limited facilities are resulting in delayed treatment and this is one of the reason for low survival in the country. “We have only ten cancer treatment centers in the country, and out of those ten, only two are working leading to overcrowding. A cancer patient needs to have an uninterrupted radiotherapy sessions but due to machine breakdowns or lack of access to machine, treatments are extended or discontinued. This can cause the disease to develop resistant or to progress”, he said. Other problem hindering quality cancer treatments in Nigeria, according to the Don, are lack of radiation oncologists and high cost of anti-cancer drugs.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Arts Lounge Doing things that marvel people is a gift –Francis Odega

Bill on ‘Arts Endowment Fund’ excites NANTAP

Can Nigeria’s culture sector fight economic recession? Economic recession is currently staring everyone at the face, giving rise to calls for the diversification of the economy beyond oil. Stakeholders believe the arts and culture sector, if well-harnessed can bring succour. Ngozi Emedolibe

ast year, Nigeria’s economy became the largest in Africa, after revenues from the entertainment sector were factored into the Gross Domestic Product, GDP; a proof to the potential inherent in the culture sector. Yes, it may not be as trendy as talking stocks and bonds. It may lack the allure and suave mien associated with the deals about prospecting for mineral oil. It may also not be as time-regulated or serious as taking a plunge in estate, but dealing on prized pieces of art works could be equally rewarding, depending on some factors such as where, whom and when. The groundbreaking figures from the art world are a big testimony to this fact. Aside the commercially-viable names of Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso, Paul Cezanne’s The Card Players which was produced in 1893 was able to get the attention of the Qatari royal family for a whopping $250m! Jackson Pollock’sNo 5, 1948 was bought for $156m, while William de Kooning’sWoman 111, produced in 1953 got the attention of Steven Cohen at a staggering $154m. Locally, Ben Enwonwu’s bronze work, Anyanwu, produced in 1953 was able to command as much as N28m in the global market, while his Dancing Boys produced in 1981 on oil and board attracted N20m in 2010, in spite of the general belief that African art works are grossly undervalued in the global market. This becomes more tangible considering that works of art have more tendencies to appreciate over time. At a forum hosted by Ben Enwonwu Foundation to intimate the Nigerian art community on how art can be an alternative investment as articulated by Giles Peppiatt, the director of Contemporary African Art at Bonhams, one of the biggest art auctioning houses in the world, this was elaborately explained. With many stakeholders in art present, the panelists and participants sought to proffer tips on how investors could cash

Nigerian art works on display

in on the hitherto untapped Nigerian art market. The ethnic and cultural diversity which typify the Nigerian landscape has no doubt, made the country a haven for collectors and investors who want to reap from the blossoming art in the face of the exhaustible oil resources. According to Sandra Mbanefo-Obiago, a producer and founder of Communicating For Change, CFC is fuelling the art venture in the United Arab Emirates, which is divesting her oil income into the area of arts, in recognition that oil wealth is exhaustible. According to her, “Abu Dhabi is an art destination. It is because they know that while oil could run out, art will never run out. In Nigeria, we have such places as Osogbo, but what have we made out of it? We even have Fela, but we had to wait on people to bring us Fela on the Broadway. To say the least, investing in art, makes a long term financial sense”. Giles Peppiatt, from Bonhams cautions that whosoever decides to go into the business of art must be driven by passion. “Art is usually bought to be

enjoyed. It is a reflection of ostentation and anyone going into it must buy out of passion. You must buy what you like and must cultivate the habit of visiting galleries to know what they have. You must know that the primary benefit of art is for enjoyment. In London, Lord Jeffrey Archer, who is an avid collector of art pieces is known to show off his collection when one comes visiting and requests to use the lavatory. He would direct you through his collection of works, so you see what he has.” According to him, the business strategy to be employed by anyone investing in art should begin with knowing what to acquire and when to do so, by carefully watching the international interest in the art piece. “Subject is important, because that is what generates international interest in the piece. You should also endeavour to research the work you want to purchase to have an insight into what it is about, because that will throw light on whether it would appreciate or not. Some works also lose their value over time. It is advisable to bear in mind that storage is important. When you consider

The way forward may indeed be for the President Buhari-led administration to pay more than a passing interest in the sector. And this would obviously come through policies that will harness the full potential in the industry

a work, take a critical look at the longevity, which is determined by the medium of the work. Generally bronze medium lasts longer and should inform you decision to invest in the work. But whatever you have decided to buy, make sure it is what you like, and have passion for. Make sure it is something you enjoy.” For investment consultant and art collector, Folusho Philips, investment in arts could be properly harnessed in Nigeria, if there was a structured market for sellers and buyers at this time of Nigeria’s development. This according to him would be realised when there is a documentation of the sales being done in the sector, so that investors would have a proper perspective of what they are investing in. This view was corroborated by Ambassador Arthur Mbanefo, another avid collector of art works, who wondered bemoaned the situation where Nigerian artists sell off most of their works without issuing receipts. “For the big time investors, who are looking for audited reports of the past years, this may be a great disservice, because they need to see these facts. In most of the works, I have acquired, I can hardly recollect ever collecting a receipt”, he said. “Such documentation is important for data bases to be compiled”. Yemisi Shyllon, an engineer who owns one of the biggest art collections in Nigeria, says he does not look at his over 6,000 pieces of art work as an investment but recognises that investing in art could have come handy for the pension funds in Nigeria, but for the lack of enabling laws in this respect. “I am not looking at the works I have as an investment. I am enjoying art and I derive so much joy by looking at them. But I keep wondering why Nigeria cannot invest pension funds in art like UK. But on a closer look, you will realise that the law does not support investing such funds in any place that does not have something to do with finance”. In all, there seems to be a general consensus that art can be a worthwhile investment for those who have a long-term projection. But anyone with such desires must play by the rule. The way forward may indeed be for the President Buhari-led administration to pay more than a passing interest in the sector. And this would obviously come through policies that will harness the full potential in the industry which, although private-driven over the decades, has boosted the fact that Nigerians are very ingenious people.

Arts Lounge

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

VOICES

Chain of title and uses of rights in films Sandra Oyewole

hain of title is the very common term used primarily in the film industries of the United States of America and Europe to describe the bundle of contracts that trace and confirm the filmmaker’s ownership of film. In these countries, the chain of title contracts verify that the filmmaker owns the film. In these countries, a verbal declaration of ownership and or possession of the master copy is simply not sufficient or acceptable as proof of this fact. With landed property the title documents are fairly easy to identify and or understand. It is these title documents that allow a potential purchaser determine whether to buy the property or not. Chain of title contracts allow for investment and distribution of a film. However in order to know what the contracts showing title in a film one has to understand what the basic elements of a film are. So what are these elements that make up a film? To answer this question, let us look at each element, one at a time: The literary work (screenplays or books): films are stories based on (a) an already existing work such as a book, consider hugely successful films like The Da Vinci Code and The Twilight series. Or the film Half of a Yellow Sun based on a book by Nigeria’s Chimamanda Adichie of the same title. AND (b) original works i.e. screenplays conceived by very creative people and an example is the 2009 Hollywood blockbuster titled ‘2012’. The musical works (including accompanying words): most films have a sound track which comprise of the actual composition of music and lyrics. The musical works are separate to the sound recordings they are recorded on and this is discussed below. Musical works are created by the composer. The composer could be the artists that performs and or records the song in question. The sound recordings the musical works are either digitally recorded and or on a hard copy. These constitute sound recordings that are required when music

Oyewole Sandra left

is being used in a film. Record labels typically are responsible for the creation of the sound recordings. The artistic works (photographs, sculptures and paintings) are also works protected under the copyright law. The actors’performances is another element of a film. So how are each of these elements linked to ownership in a film? Each of these elements, including the completed film, are works protected by copyright law of the country in which the film was made. Now, each of these owners has certain exclusive rights in the respective works which include reproduction, distribution and public performance. These rights are required by any filmmaker to make his or her film. If the filmmaker does not obtain a formal written assignment of or license of these exclusive rights from the creators or owners of these works which are used in his film, then he or she cannot be said to have

good title in his or her film. The fact that money may have changed hands and the filmmaker has paid for same is not proof of ownership. It is the contracts with the filmmaker and the owners of these works that confirm ownership of the filmmaker and or his right to use the works. We are now back to the question on what these contractual documents are? The chain of title contracts are essentially agreements with the filmmaker on the one hand and on the other, the owners of the works that will make up the film elements mentioned earlier. A formal, written contract assigning or licensing the rights in these works to the filmmaker is required to show his ownership and or permission to use the works which are now elements in a film. It is these contracts of assignment or license in the works featured from inception to completion of the film that make up the chain of title. This is how it works: Literary: The film Half of a Yellow Sun: formal permission required from

Failure to secure chain of title can also affect the ability to raise funds for the production and distribution of a film

Memorable Reads What is your favourite book? It is Satan Get Lost, one of the books by Bishop David Oyedepo. Who is your favourite author? I will give it to Bishop David Oyedepo, because of what he has been doing in the propagation of the kingdom of God. For him to have the time to write these wonderful books in spite of his tight schedule is quite commendable. His books are inspiring many Christians in the world. What makes ‘Satan Get Lost’ unique? As a gospel singer, I see the book as a print version of what I am doing in music. The book explains to the Christian that he or she does not need to fear the devil again. Once you read and understand the book, you will be armed with the reality that Jesus Christ has already disarmed the devil for you. Most

Precious Okuchukwu,

Gospel singer/ TV presenter

times, individuals get into trouble, because they are afraid of the devil. The devil strikes once he knows the Christian is afraid. How much do books cost you annually? I do not have the accurate figure. I buy when I have the resources and when I need it. But I can open my purse when it is a book that has to do with uplifting my spiritual well-being as a Christian What other things do you read aside Christian literature? I read fiction, when I am less busy. But I am more of a Christian literature person. If you become an author what will you write about? I will like to do a book on testimonies, to teach fellow Christians that they should never ever give up hope on God.

the author of the book as well as the scriptwriter. Music and Sound Recordings: Any film about the late FelaAnikulapo-Kuti will require use of his music and sound recordings. Formal permission is required from the copyright owners for use of these works. Kevin MacDonald’s definitive documentary on Bob Marley would have required formal permission from the copyright owners to his music and sound recordings. Artwork: The use of photographs, pictures and any other form of artwork in a film, television series or audio visual will require formal permission. In one recent court case in the United States of America, a photographer was awarded millions of dollars against one of the bigger media outfits for the unlicensed use of his photos of the Haiti earthquakes. Performances: The performances of the actors and their name and image must be properly assigned for use otherwise a lawsuit is risked. The one case that comes to mind (though it is not strictly speaking on performance) is that of the unauthorised use of the image of Ms Sharon Stone to publicise a film she had acted in. In her contract it was stipulated that her image would not be used to publicise the film. This was not communicated to the advertisers in certain territories and when the error was discovered, significant sums of money were spent on destroying or removing the image from the advertisements. Failure to secure chain of title can also affect the ability to raise funds for the production and distribution of a film. As mentioned earlier, chain of title is a necessity in countries like the United States of America and the United Kingdom. However in Nigeria, chain of title is not considered as necessarily critical as it is in the United States of America or the United Kingdom. The Nigerian film industry is quite informal and films are financed and distributed everyday with almost no documentation. This has affected overseas distribution and potential investment. • Oyewole is an intellectual property expert.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

ARTISTE UNCENSORED For Francis Odega, it has been a steady rise in the comedy business; the recent commercial by a major telecoms company confirms this. How did he overcome the initial challenges in Nollywood? Ngozi Emedolibe

Arts Lounge

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Doing things that marvel people is a gift –Francis Odega

e is fondly called ‘Odega’ in the home video industry, and true to his type, he likes making descriptions with satire. A typical example is imagining that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s cashless policy has meant bad business for thieves; so much that they would soon begin to look for ‘Brazilian hair’ more than a woman’s purse; Or his current wave-making commercial for a telecoms company, where he funnily maintains a chain of women, with bonuses accruing from his phone recharges. These are the kinds of creative imaginations that have made his name one of the most formidable in the industry, especially as regards comic roles in home videos, which has so far availed him more than one hundred movie and television credits in productions like, ‘Clinic Matters’, ‘Osuofia in London’, ‘Alaba Boys’, ‘Emotional Blunders’, ‘Under the Sky’, ‘Mama Gee Goes to School’, and ‘Baby Police’ amongst others. He is one of the actors happy with the progress of the industry at the moment. “The industry may not be producing as many as we used to, but that is a healthy development. Right now, Nollywood is making better films which can compete favourably with the ones from other places. I am optimistic that things will even get better, because at the moment we are getting mentions in foreign lands, which is a sign that our rating is getting better. However, some Nigerians, no matter how we try will never see anything good about the industry. There are people who will naturally tell you that they do not watch Nollywood movies. It is out of sheer prejudice, which has never stopped the industry from going to where it is going”.

Mr Ibu, Eniola Badmus and Odega

Getting involved in the entertainment business, for Francis Odega, is like tapping into his endowment. According to him, his arty nature is one trait that runs in his family from Aniocha, in Delta State. “Everyone in my family does one form of art or the other. That is why I believe this is what I was born to do. My siblings are not involved in art professionally but they have the talent. Honestly, I did not set out to become a comedian. But while growing up, I noticed that I would be talking and people would be laughing and sometimes, my friends will ask me why I have not thought of pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. That was how it all began. I actually studied Economics at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. That does not mean that my degree is not relevant. I will advise anybody wishing to pursue a career in this industry to arm himself with education. It helps too.” The challenges of rising in the movie industry according to Francis can be frustrating but one needs the spirit of

The challenges of rising in the movie industry according to Francis can be frustrating but one needs the spirit of perseverance to succeed

MIDWEEK JUMP

LABAF remembers Saro Wiwa with contest

he organisers of the Lagos Book and Art Festival have called for entries for reviews of any one of five works of Ken Saro Wiwa’s fiction and drama. The best review of either Sozaboy, A Forest of Flowers, Adaku and Other Stories, Prisoners of Jebs, or a joint review of Basi and Company and Transistor Radio will receive a humble N100,000 prize money at the opening day of the Festival, at Freedom Park, on November 13, 2015. The competition is open to Nigerians aged between 18 and 41. The entries are to be submitted to Mr. Toni Kan, chairman of the panel of judges, on or before 5pm on November 6, 2015. Mr. Kan is the author of Nights of The Creaking Bed and brand ambassador for the SamsungGalaxy Note 5. Each review should be no more than 1,000 words and typewritten and sent via email to tonikan11@ gmail.com. Ken Saro Wiwa in 1993

Odega

perseverance to succeed. “It is not an easy road. Success comes with a combination of factors like grace of God, hard work and talent. No one component of these factors can make one succeed without the others. I came into Nollywood at a period when you will have to attend auditions and also convince the directors and producers that you can do the role. People in my kind of business, comedy are few and once you are good, words will go around that you can do it. With that, scripts will naturally come your way.” Are there additional responsibilities on the part of the comedian in helping a movie script come to reality? “Absolutely, the comedian in our context does more than just knowing how the story will end. He is expected to come up with the body language and the dialogue to bring out the plot. It is not just enough to say one’s lines; it must be said in a way it would

make someone laugh, because that is the essence of one’s job as a comedian. That is why they are paying you”. Although Odega would not divulge what comedians earn from movies, he insists the fees are just a part of the pecks that come with his job. “It is not just about the money. There are other benefits that come with my career. Honestly, when I walk into a bank, I get treated specially. Sometimes, they do not allow me to be on the queue. People will recognise me and try to treat me nicely.” Although he has walked through the hard way to become successful, he has one advice to the younger ones wishing to pursue a career in his field. “Once you are able to do things in a way people are marveled, it is a gift. All you need to do is interact with people who can help to showcase what you have. And trust God as you work hard”.

Abuja International Film Festival kicks off

he Abuja International Film Festival is on this week. The event, currently in its 12th edition, will run from October 27 to October 30, 2015. The nominees were selected after a painstaking two weeks of screening of over 700 films from 39 countries, the screeners made up of industry stakeholders including filmmakers and film critics expressed appreciation with the improved quality of films especially from Nigeria. Films were received in all genres – features, shorts, documentary, animation and experimental films. According to Gbenga Andipe, spokesman for the college of screeners, winners will be announced at the festival”s glamorous award ceremony scheduled for the Silverbird Cinema Abuja abanner on the 30th of October.

Arts Lounge

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FAR AND NEAR

Kachikwu’s Bill on ‘Arts Endowment Fund’ excites NANTAP lecture on N E culture, leadership gozi

medolibe

he National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) is excited about the recent proposal by Senator Shehu Sani in the 8th Assembly for a bill to establish an Endowment Fund for Arts and Literature. “The news of the National Endowment for Arts and Literature bill sponsored by Senator Shehu Sani is a welcome development. It has been long overdue but despite our advocacies and outcries, no one has looked our way. This is a welcome development. It has been long overdue.” National President of the Association, Babatunde Obalana Snr. FTA, added that the establishment of the endowment fund will contribute hugely to the development of the creative economy. “Across the world, the endowment fund for Arts, plays a significant role in providing necessary support structure for the development of the artistes and the arts. In the end, the Nigerian creative economy would be the winner.” The Association, with twenty-six branches across the nation would be one of the direct beneficiaries of such endowment fund if and when established. The President said, they are willing to provide whatever information and support required to see the bill through, especially during the public hearings. Mr. Obalana called on the 8th National Assembly to give Senator Shehu Sani all necessary support to see to the passage, immediate establishment and execution of the endowment funds.

Obalana

The Association also called on President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure that due process is followed and a round peg is put in a round hole as far as the appointment of the next Minister of Culture is concerned. “The President must understand that, a people without a cultural lifestyle, which the Culture Ministry represents, is a dead nation. And so, the Minister must be one who is grounded in the arts and culture. One who has the business initiative for culture. The appointment of such a Minister must not be business as usual. We supported the change and we want a change in the way things are done. The Ministry of Culture should be manned by an astute culture administrator as the next Minister of Culture.”

He added that the Culture Ministry should no longer be a dumping ground for every Tom, Dick and Harry. “With due respect to previous ministers, we no longer want to see a lawyer, scientist and people from other professions presiding over the Culture Ministry while we have professionals within the sector who are tested and trusted. “ “The Ministry of Culture is one Ministry that must stay regardless of the President’s plan to downsize the number of Ministries. Culture is a way of life and tourism is the platform through which we project and promote our cultural values and heritage. We therefore appeal to Mr. President, whose antecedents and contributions to the emergence of the Ministry of Culture, during his short-lived Military era, we are very much aware of and appreciate, to ensure that the much awaited Minister understands the business of Culture and knows what to do to turn Nigeria into a tourist attraction in order to further increase our internally generated revenue (IGR) and contribute to the nation’s GDP.” He posited. The Association which will be celebrating its silver jubilee anniversary later in December said it is determined to help the administration of President Buhari fulfil its campaign promises of creating one million jobs a year. “We are a critical partner in the fulfilment of Mr. President’s campaign promises to create jobs for young Nigerians. The theatre is such a strategic platform for gainful engagement of unemployed Nigerian youths. Only a very modest investment from the government is required to make this happen.”

Meet Eyitoyosi, poet at 9 Isiguzo Destiny

yitoyosi Adeseeke Jerry-Adesewo, daughter of Arojah Royal Theatre’s Artistic Director, Om’Oba Jerry Adesewo, has followed in her father and elder sibling’s footstep in to the world of art, as she stole the show at the 6th induction and 2nd conference of certified Librarians organised by the Librarians Registration Council of Nigeria. The nine-year old student of African Child Academy, Kubwa, Abuja was invited as a Guest Performer at the annual gathering of Nigerian librarians where she performed a mammoth crowd of over 1000 audience which includes the President of West African Library Association, Dr. James Daniel; Ambassador Sam Jeba and Alhaji Sanusi Nassarawa of North West University, Kano among others. With two poems, ‘My Library’ by Varda One

Eyitoyosi being honoured

and ‘Curved Lips’ by Brooks Lindberg which speaks to the 2015 theme of the conference which is ‘Innovative libraries’, the young poet wowed her audience with her performance of both poem as directed by her big daddy, Mr. Adesewo Fayaman Bay who is the Director of Productions of Arojah Royal Theatre. Adeseeke was treated to a standing ovation at the end of her presentation and invited up the podium by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Hajiya Hindatu Abdullahi. “I am happy to present to you this brilliant young woman. With the brilliance she has demonstrated here today, I have no doubt that she can go on to become the President of this great nation and make us proud, just as she has done here today. Congratulations, my daughter. She deserves a scholarship too.” One of them, a lady, who pleaded anonymity later explained that the former Minister of Education and current

Governor of Rivers State pronounced a N6 million worth of scholarship in appreciation of the young boy who performed at the maiden edition of the conference in 2013. Adeseeke’s father, Omo’Oba Jerry Adesewo who could not hide his excellent performance of his daughter had this to say. “What matters to me is that she did not disappoint. Though she has been performing but this was a first time facing such huge crowd; and an all adult audience for that matter. I am excited that she did well and was well appreciated.” He went further to say that he had no serious expectation from the exercise. “When I was contacted for her to do this, the organisers already told me that they only had transport fare to offer. So, I was not expecting a scholarship reward as was the case last year. That is not to say I/We would have rejected such reward. For her, this is just the beginning.” The conference which opened at the Obasanjo Space Centre on Tuesday October 13 ran through to October 16, during which the Librarians deliberated on the role of Librarians in anti-corruption campaign, reading culture, book development, literacy and general contribution to national growth and development among other issues. Earlier in her welcome address, Registrar/ CEO of the Librarians Registration Council of Nigeria and a board member of UNESCO, Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria Okojie admonished the 530 inductees and the existing 4,141 (which brought the total of registered librarians to 4,671) avoid breach of professional conducts.

Isiguzo Destiny

ovember 18, all roads will lead to the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, Victoria Island in Lagos for the one year celebration of Leadership and Style magazine. Highlights of the epoch-making event which will kick-off at 10aminclude a lecture to be delivered by the Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC and Ministerial nominee, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu who has been invited as Guest Speaker during the occasion. According to a press release issued in Lagos and signed by Sunny Okim, Editor-in-Chief of Leadership and Style Magazine, Kachikwu will lecture on the topic, ‘’Raising Future Nigerian Leaders: Challenges of Modernisation’’ Introduced into the newsstands across the country in August 2014, Leadership and Style is a general interest monthly publication that has brought to the Nigerian print media landscape the promises of a new standard. According to Okim, the uniqueness of the magazine is in showcasing excellence in leadership and leadership styles, factual news reporting and the traditional standards of journalism at its professional best. The 100-page full colour, all gloss publication comes with the enchanting freshness of balanced and well researched content. ‘’We want to celebrate the success of a well-packaged publication anchored by indigenous professionals. I must say that in-spite of the challenging times, Leadership and Style has, in the past one year of its hitting the newsstands, made its way into the hearts of the Nigerian readers, as well as readers across the globe, since it’s also published online,’’ said Okim. Other top dignitaries expected to grace the event, according to the press statement, include the Governor of Akwa-Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel as Special Guest of Honour, the Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Kolawole Taiwo (Guest of Honour), Chief Peter Okocha (Chairman of the Occasion), Mr. Ray Ekpu (Co-Guest Speaker), and many others. The special anniversary edition of the magazine which will be unveiled during the occasion, according to Okim, will be reviewed by Mr. Frank Aigbogun, Publisher Business Day.

Ibe Kachukwu

Business

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, October 29, 2015

Rotary releases US$6.9m to ensure Nigeria remains polio-free 30

CBN’s forex policy on excluded items ‘ll curb unbridled import, conserve foreign reserves –Eyitayo 28

Stakeholders urge govt to prioritise renewable energy investments 33

Seven Energy commences gas delivery to Nigerian firms Tola Akinmutimi

country’s sector reforms while the IFC itself and an IFC-managed fund have jointly invested in Seven Energy in Nigeria. Speaking on the investment, Chief Executive Officer of Seven Energy, Phillip Ihenacho, noted that “MIGA’s involvement is an important part of the financial security package that enables us to invest for the long term in Nigeria’s gas sector—a decision that we expect will be good not only for our business, but also for Nigerian citizens, companies, and the economy as a whole.” In his remarks, MIGA’s Executive Vice President and CEO, Keiko Honda, noted that “on

energy, Nigeria is at a crossroads,” adding that “MIGA is very pleased to be part of the country’s efforts to reduce its negative impact on climate change by moving toward cleaner energy and reducing gas flaring.” Most international oil and gas companies in Nigeria are focused on offshore oil, while gas is often considered a byproduct and re-injected, liquified for export, or flared. Yet, despite the country’s enormous natural gas reserves, only one third of power is supplied from the national grid. Those connected to the grid face multiple daily power cuts and 55 percent of the popula-

tion has no energy access. In response, the Nigerian government created the Gas Master Plan in 2009 to increase the gas supply and jumpstart investments in gas infrastructure through market-based pricing, strengthened regulation, increased contract enforceability, and better-aligned incentives. MIGA was created in 1988 as a member of the World Bank Group to promote foreign direct investment into emerging economies to support economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve people’s lives. MIGA fulfills this mandate by offering political risk insurance and credit enhancement to investors and lenders.

he Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), the political risk insurance and credit enhancement arm of the World Bank Group, along with Seven Energy International Limited (Seven Energy), on Monday disclosed its first engagement in Nigeria’s gas sector with the commencement of gas delivery to power and manufacturing plants in the country. Specifically, Seven Energy’s processing facility and pipelines commenced delivering gas to three power stations and two manufacturing plants, a critical initiative that is expected to have a significant development impact in the country in view of the severe energy shortage hampering productivity in key sectors of the economy According to the statement, MIGA is providing a guarantee of $200 million against the risk of expropriation to Seven Energy’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Accugas Ltd. The investment has a strong environmental profile, as Seven Energy’s operations will reduce gas flaring and displace morepolluting fuels such as diesel and biomass. The Agency’s backing of Seven Energy forms part of new generation of jointly developed World Bank Group solutions, through which in addition to MIGA’s insurance, the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Mr Uju Aisha Hassan Baba (l) and the Vice President, World Bank is supporting the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA), Amb. Robert Perry, during the visit CCA’S delegation to the Commission In Abuja.

NEITI endorses EITI Community of Practice Udeme Akpan

EITI has endorsed the establishment of the EITI Community of Practice (CoP) as a social network platform for wider dissemination of information on Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative issues. It described the new move

as a creative innovation and efforts to build a big family among communication professionals in the EITI global community in an online community setting, adding that the CoP has created opportunities for implementing countries including Nigeria to share knowledge, partnership and cooperation, strength and weaknesses under

a southsouth peer learning environment. Under the CoP being hosted by the World Bank, member countries of the EITI explore the opportunity of real time discussions among practitioners. This involves exchange of questioners, sharing of documents and exchange of practical ideas, advice from and

among countries. It also creates opportunities for face-to-face learning, presentations and meetings. The first major event was a webinar on Communication Strategies and Social Media Management which held on the 30th of September, 2015 with more than 30 participants from 18 countries.

AIRLINES’ FLIGHT SCHEDULES Med-View Airline 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

Executive Discourse

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CBN’s forex policy on excluded items ‘ll curb unbridled MRS. COMFORT EYITAYO is a Chartered Accountant, Chartered Tax Practitioner and Member of National Institute, mni. She has over the years been engaged in entrepreneurial and professional activities that make her one of the few Nigerian female professionals providing leadership and capacity building for Nigerian youths desirous of creating future for themselves, despite the challenges in the economy. In this interview with Gbenga Odogun, she speaks on several issues affecting the performance of the nation’s economy and what could be done to properly position it on the path of sustainable growth in the years ahead. Excerpts:

n view of the continuous fall in the price of crude in the international market, leading to below average performance in the 2015 budget, what in your own view will be the realistic and feasible benchmark for the 2016 budget? Well, I will say the average of the prices of crude in the last three months of the year will probably be the best to be used as benchmark for the 2016 budget in view of the volatility of the price at the moment, it may be benchmarked on $45 because it is better to put a low price tag on it to address shortfall, and if it increases, it will be better for us as the excess could be saved or used for something else. There have been calls for the diversification of the economy to reduce dependence on crude oil as the primary source of revenue for the country, what other areas will you advise the government to focus on? The areas that had already been addressed are good areas, it is just the way they are going about implementation that really matters, top on the list is taxation, taxation in Nigeria have not been well implemented and it also requires a lot of education to get the larger bracket of the populace that hitherto would have been good source of income which is eluding the government at the moment. Some do not see the reason for them to be paying taxes and a lot of people fall in that bracket so a lot of education need s to be carried out to sensitize the people on the need to pay taxes. Then the government itself in im-

plementing tax policies should make sure that they avoid what is called “double taxation” which puts people off from paying taxes and then there are some high income bracket people that are not within the tax net or tax bracket. They should actually design the catchment to get in a larger part of those people to make sure that they get more income from taxation and of course the much talked about agriculture is good but the people that really need to get the aids are not getting them. Those that will really make the dif-

Eyitayo

ference in the agricultural input to the income we are expecting from sector. Largely, what is affecting the income that government is able to generate depends on power supply, most businesses are on generator for most parts of the day and this have effect on the willingness to pay taxes. If you run a business and the business is efficient and making profits, people are more willing to pay taxes, but if you run a business at a loss, it affects a lot of things such as unwillingness to pay, because you will not be able to stay afloat, and if you don’t stay afloat there will be loss of jobs and so on and these laid off people were supposed to be sources of taxes. If people are gainfully employed, they will pay taxes and the companies that

States have to look inward. Just like the individual, every state has one endowment or the other. That is why states need to look inward to boost their Internally

Generated Revenue, IGR, profiles. They

should look at those areas where they have comparative advantages

and develop it, and if all states do

that, they can rub off on each other

employ them will pay but all that benefits will be lost if the company can’t sustain its operations. The people that are roaming the streets unemployed will also be engaged if the infrastructure is there. Largely, what I think government should address as a matter of urgency is power. Shortly after President Buhari came on board, power seemed to improve but now we are back to where we were before then. It is now so bad that no one knows what is happening. We may look at it from micro level but it also has a backlash on the macro level because everyone has to key into the larger picture of the society. One of the lapses in the budgetary system is the fact that recurrent expenditure far outweighs capital expenditures, how do you think this can be addressed? I think part of this is currently being addressed by the present government and I hope they stay on this policy, streamlining and cutting of wastages because these recurrent that takes a large chunk of the fortune of governments, some of them are not even necessary, may be that is what is informing this administration’s policy to reduce the number of ministries. There are over bloated service points or expenditure points as not all of them are actually necessary for developmental purposes. So, that is one area that we can begin to look at the policy thrust of this government is likely to be addressed, maybe in

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Executive Discourse

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

import, conserve foreign reserves –Eyitayo its early days but that is the pointer which I am seeing and if it is well articulated, that would really go down well in streamlining the recurrent expenditure of government. We cannot continue to have recurrent expenditure outweighing capital expenditure, capital expenditure is what will bring growth not recurrent. What is your view on the Treasury Single Account policy of the present administration? It depends on whose angle are you looking at it from. But I will say that it is good from the sense that it will be easier to monitor the totality of revenue generated. I know some people will be hit by it. For instance, banks, instead of doing banking business as being done all over the world, are relying on government money and turn over that does not reflect our growth but paper growth that were being paraded over the years. All these stories about onemoney or the other not being accounted for would no longer be there, because we now have information about all sources of funds. By that way you know what you have and what you can spend, and you won’t have over bloated budget. Apart from that, hopefully, it may reduce or curb corruption. What is your position on the decision to exclude about 41 item importers from accessing the official foreign exchange market?

I think it is in line with the control of how we waste resources in this country. We virtually import everything and this is killing our local industries even those things we don’t really need or how do you explain people importing tooth pick? If factories here cannot compete with those from outside, definitely they will fold up and how can we develop that way? There are some luxury items we don’t need but want to consume. The question is: why do you have to import them? I think it is a way of discouraging Nigerians from developing penchant for those items we don’t really need and by the CBN policy, we will conserve our foreign reserves. How do you think small and medium scale enterprises could be assisted in accessing loan facilities from financial institutions? I think the aspect the government can assist and I believe they are addressing now and they can do more is through Bank of Industry. They are already creating different windows through which Small and Medium Enterprise can access funds. Ordinarily, banks should be able to collaborate or partner with genuine business but what we found out was that banks were not ready to partner any SME and you don’t become big if you don’t start from somewhere. All the conglomerates, even the

If factories here cannot compete with those from outside, definitely they will fold up and how can we develop that

way?

There are some luxury items we don’t need but want to consume. The question is: why do you have to import them? I think it is a way of discouraging Nigerians from developing penchant for those items we don’t really need and by the CBN policy, we will conserve our foreign reserves Dangotes of this world, started from a humble beginning . If nobody gave them a chance or assistance, they will not become big. That’s what our banks are not doing and it is so because of the free funds available in government treasury and that is why some of us are happy with this TSA because it will force them to look inward and the SMEs is a sure way through which they can make money. When they are assisted with funds, you can charge interest and that is why governments’ efforts in this direction is commendable. It is just that more people are not aware and this could be addressed through aggressive enlightenment campaigns to draw the attention of many more people who might have bankable ideas to approach the banks for assistance . The SMES are truly the engine of growth and they need to be encouraged and government should do more to encourage them. At the just concluded World Bank meeting in Peru, the IMF called for the devaluation of the Naira, a call echoed by the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria who is now the Emir of Kano, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. What is your position on this? On personal note, I don’t feel happy about it, although the Emir of Kano said that is like we are living in denial, I can understand the aspect that the value of Naira does not seem to be backed up by what we have but my question is how long are we going to continue to devalue and hat are we gaining? If we have something other countries can buy from us devaluation can be good, we will generate more revenue, but we are the one buying, we are not selling anything to them. That means we will be buying at much more expensive rate than what we have at the moment. Devaluation is just adding to our problems.

How would you advice State Governments on revenue generation, especially on the need to explore tax revenues within their domains? States have to look inward. Just like the individual, every state has one endowment or the other. That is why states need to look inward to boost their Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, profiles. They should look at those areas where they have comparative ad-

vantages and develop it, and if all states do that, they can rub off on each other. For instance, like Lagos which has no land mass, they have gone to other states to acquire land for agriculture. Now that revenue from the federation accounts is dwindling, the states have to look inward for revenue. Let the states ask themselves, what do we have and what are those things we don’t have? They can exchange and not just depending on taxation to the extent of driving businesses away. The era of free money when they run to Abuja for free money is long gone and they have to look inward and see what they can do to generate income for their states. What is your position on companies not remitting taxes deducted from works salaries to the appropriate quarters:

Non remittance of deducted money is a crime and that is what we discussed earlier on that the rules are there but the problem is the implementation, the rules about non re-

mittance of deducted tax need to be enforced. You are just a conduit pipe through which the money should get to the government and failure to do so should attract appropriate penalty

Eyitayo

Business News

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Rotary releases US$6.9m to ensure Nigeria remains polio-free … gives US$ 40.4m to end polio globally Tola Akinmutimi

n the heels of historic success against polio in Nigeria and across the continent of Africa, Rotary has provided an additional US$6.9 million boost to Nigeria to support immunization activities and surveillance spearheaded by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. A statement by the global humanitarian group indicated that this was the year when three became two, with the World Health Organization removing Nigeria from the list of polio-endemic countries, leaving just Afghanistan and Pakistan remaining. It clarified: “With no case of wild poliovirus (WPV) reported since 24 July 2014, more than a year has passed with no samples testing positive for WPV across the entire country. This achievement is a tribute to the hard work of countless health care workers, traditional leaders, over 400,000 volunteers and the government who managed to turn the programme in Nigeria around by reaching over 45 million children repeat-

edly with polio vaccines. “Polio is on track to become the second human disease ever to be eliminated from the world (smallpox is the first). To date, Rotary has helped 194 countries stop the transmission of polio through the mass immunization of children. Rotary’s new funding commitment, announced in advance of the Oct. 24 observance of World Polio Day 2015, targets countries where children remain at risk of contracting this incurable, but vaccine-preventable, disease, the Club added. Speaking on the development, Chairman of Rotary’s Nigeria National Polio Plus Committee, Tunji Funsho, said that as the country celebrates “world polio day in a time when we have been removed from the list of polio endemic countries we must remain vigilant and ensure that all children are immunised again polio until Nigeria is certified polio free and indeed the world is certified polio free. No child is safe from the polio virus until no more polio virus exists on this planet.” Rotary is contributing $26.8 million to African coun-

tries to ensure the disease never returns to the continent: Burkina Faso ($1.6 million), Cameroon ($2.7 million), Chad ($2.6 million), Democratic Republic of Congo ($499,579), Equatorial Guinea ($685,000), Kenya ($750,102), Madagascar ($562,820), Mali ($1.5 million), Niger ($3 million), Nigeria ($6.9 million), Somalia ($4.9

million) and South Sudan ($1.5 million). Outside of Africa, Rotary also announced grants of $6.7 million for polio-endemic Pakistan, $400,000 to Iraq and $5.3 million to India. The remaining $990,542 will support immunization activities and surveillance. In total, Rotary gives $40.4 million to end polio worldwide. To date, Rotary has con-

tributed more than $1.5 billion to fight polio. Through 2018, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will match two-to-one every dollar Rotary commits to polio eradication (up to $35 million a year). Currently, there have been only 41 cases of polio reported in the world in 2015, down from about 350,000 a year when the initiative launched in 1988.

L R: Managing Director Amo BYNG Farm, Dr Ayoola Oduntan; Managing Director /CEO Bank of Industry, Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa and Executive Director Small and Medium Enterprises Mr Waheed Olagunju, during the visit of Bank of Industry to Amo BYNG Farm in Awe, Oyo State, at the weekend.

Prestige Assurance appoints Usman Visa partners Total to reward new Chairman customers with free fuel Isaac Asabor

restige Assurance Plc has notified the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, of the appointment of Mr. Hassan Musa Usman as its new Chairman. Usman’s appointment as the new chairman was a result of the demand of the shareholders at the company’s 45th Annual General Meeting to have a Nigerian as the Chairman of the company. Consequently, at the Meeting of the Board of Directors of the Company held penultimate Wednesday , Mr. GopalanSrinivasan (Indian) stepped down as the Chairman of the company to pave the way for Usman’s appointment. Usman graduated with a Bachelors of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Sussex, and also earned an M.Phil. in Development Economics from Darwin College, University of Cambridge. He

is anAssociate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. He is also a Registered US National Association of Securities Dealers Series 7 Investment Banking Representative. He has more two decades experience garnered from finance and investment sectors as well as rendering his professional services to privatization processes that cut across various sectors and global economies. He recently retired as the Chief Executive Officer, Aso Savings and Loans Plc upon the exhaustion of his tenure of 10 years. Before becoming the Managing Director of Aso Savings and Loans Plc, he was the Executive Director (investment) Abuja Investment and Property Development Company Ltd. He also worked at Citibank, Arthur Andersen S.C London and the Central Bank of Nigeria among reputable organizations.

Isaiah Erhiawarien

n a bid to foster partnerships and improve card usage for purchases while enhancing consumer efficiency, payment technology company Visa, has partnered Total Nigeria to reward customers who use their Visa card to buy fuel at the company’s service stations in Lagos state. Flagging off the campaign in Lagos, Country manager, VISA West Africa, Mr. Ade Ashaye, said the promotion was aimed at educating consumers and businesses on the convenience of making payments for fuel and other commodities at Total service stations. He said that the campaign will run for seven weeks during which seven Total service stations would be giving out N1000 worth of free petrol daily to 10 Visa card users who buy petrol worth N3,000 and above.

Ashaye explained that the seven stations giving out free fuel are pre-selected and they change daily to ensure all stations get fair rounds noting that cardholders also stand a chance of winning free fuel for a year through a raffle draw by sending an SMS to a short-code which will be provided at the service stations. He said: “At Visa we are committed to developing creative ways of driving the cashless policy in Nigeria through ecommerce and we understand that card payments are more secure than cash payments for both buyers and sellers. This is why we have partnered with Total to launch the ‘Total fuel campaign with Visa’, to ensure that personal finances are managed effectively with minimal costs by our cardholders.” He said further that consumers will not only be able to enjoy the usual benefits of paying with their Visa card, but they will also be rewarded for it.

Network Development Manager Total Nigeria Plc, Mr. Maxence Bourgoing said that the company was happy to work with VISA on this project adding that it has invested a lot in ensuring that its service stations are up to international standards and this partnership is certainly a step in the right direction. Bourgoing noted: “Globally there is a drive towards e-commerce and card payments and we are happy to be at the forefront of this initiative in Nigeria. Total service stations are a key interaction point with our customers and so we promise to continuously offer innovative payment solutions that make purchases as seamless as possible.” Analysts believe that the partnership will help drive the cashless policy agenda by decreasing cash handling and its negative implications whilst eliminating cash reconciliation discrepancies.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Business News

NAMA test run Kano Area Control Centre Olusegun Koiki

he Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, said it has successfully carried out operational test run of its Kano Area Control Centre, ACC, at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, MAKIA.

This is as the agency stated that the full implementation of the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Contract/ Controller Pilot Data Link Communication, ADS-C/ CPDLC, in the nation’s airspace has been slated for November 12, 2015. A statement by the agency’s spokesperson, Mrs. Olajumoke Adetona, indicated that the Kano test run exercis was witnessed by the Managing Director, NAMA, Engr. Ibrahim Abdulsalam, and other directors in the agency. She noted that NAMA had a successful log-on and communication with airlines such as KLM flight KLM597, Ethiopian Airlines flight ETH936, Saudi Air flight SVA977, Qatar Air flight QTR771, Air France flight AFR896 and another Air France flight AFR976 during the period of the test run at the weekend. She said that the pilots of airlines involved in the test run commended NAMA for the initiative, adding that a successful Site Acceptance Test, SAT, on the equipment in Kano was conducted by NAMA engineers in collaboration with technical personnel from SITA Information Networking Computing BV (system providers). She declared that air traffic engineers and air traffic controllers drawn from La-

gos and Kano ACCs have been assembled in Kano for operational and technical training, which has already taken off at the airport. With the simultaneous commencement of the test run of ADS-C/ CPDLC in Kano and Lagos ACCs, both of which make up the Kano Flight Information Region, FIR, NAMA was set for the actual takeoff of the service across the nation’s airspace

beginning from 00.00hrs UTC on the 12th of November, 2015. Speaking at the event, Abdulsalam said, “Particularly very strategic to the ADS-C/ CPDLC project because of the preponderance of over flyers in the region who will mostly be using the service. “Kano has less of terminal traffic, but more of en route traffic and ADS-C/CPDLC enhances en route flight trajectories in the upper airspace.

It is targeted at high-climbing traffic and long distance flights between Flight Information Regions. However, the service is also available for any aircraft that has voice communication challenges no matter the altitude. Aircraft in a state of emergency, if they are equipped, could log on and establish communication with air traffic controllers.” He therefore expressed con-

Port operations resume, as maritime workers suspend strike FRANCIS EZEM

conomic activities resumed at the nation’s seaports in Lagos at the weekend following the decision of dock workers, under the aegis of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria, MWUN, to suspend their three day-industrial action. Stakeholders had expressed concern that the industrial action by the workers over non

-payment of their salary arrears and allowances by the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, might lead to port congestion, if not addressed urgently. The decision of the workers to suspend the strike follows the issuance of a communiqué signed by Executive Director in charge of Finance and Administration of NPA, Mr. Olumide Oduntan and the President-General of the MWUN, Mr. Anthony Nted, on

behalf of the dock workers. The issuance of the communiqué was the highpoint of negotiations between representatives of both parties, after which it was agreed that the strike actions should be suspended. Part of the agreements contained in the communiqué, made available to National Mirror was that all outstanding payments to tally clerks and on board security men are now top

L-R: Guest Speaker/Regional Director, Nigeria and Central Africa, Alcatel One Touch, Nick Imudia; Moderator, Top 50 Brands Nigeria Forum/Chief Executive Officer, V+O Communications, Josephine Aligwekwe; Chairman of Zinox Technologies Limited, Leo Stan Ekeh and Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Lagos, Joseph Okonma, at the Brands Nigeria Leadership forum (Top 50 Brands Nigeria ), in Lagos, recently.

Alcatel Onetouch posts 4% net profit for third quarter David Audu

CL Communications, brand owner of Alcatel Onetouch mobile, has posted four per cent net profit in its unaudited third quarter results for the third quarter ending September 30, 2015. The said the increase in sales of smart devices meant the Group’s overall revenue grew 1 per cent over the same ninemonth period in 2014 to reach HK$20.3 billion, Hong Kong dollars, with net profit up by 4 per cent year on year to reach HK$772 million.

fidence that the introduction of ADS-C/ CPDLC would see more traffic gravitating towards the Nigerian airspace because of the enhanced safety and efficiency, which the service provides. It would be recalled that NAMA had on the 12th of October, 2015 commenced the ADS-C/ CPDLC test run at the Lagos ACC with aviation chief executives in attendance.

TCL said despite a sluggish world economy and other factors, the Group’s gross profit margin rose slightly to a healthy 20.2 per cent. “During the period under review, the total sales volume of handsets and other products grew 14 pe cent year on year to 55.4 million units, with 50.5 million units sold overseas and 4.9 million units sold in China. Sales volume of smart devices increased by 20 per cent year on year to 31.1 million units, accounting for 56 per cent of the group’s total shipments. Group Chief Executive Officer, TCL Communication, Dr.

Guo Aiping, said “the group continues to take advantage of the growing market demand for cost-effective and multifunctional smartphones to broaden its worldwide market share,” Third Quarter Launches and Fourth Quarter Plans Explaining the reasons for the profit margin during the third quarter, Aiping said, “in the third quarter, the group launched a variety of innovative products including the shockproof, waterproof and dustproof GO PLAY smartphone and GO WATCH smartwatch, which supports both Android and iOS operating systems. In addition,

it launched Xess, an extra-large, 17.3-inch-screen tablet”. Looking forward to the last quarter of the year, the CEO said, “the Group will build on the strengths of different markets and adopt targeted strategies for each of its six designated business regions, which include deepening relationships with operators and launching more entry-level 4G smartphones, tablets and wearable devices. The Group will also strengthen its open-market channels and e-commerce platforms in order to be well prepared for upcoming peak seasons, such as Christmas.

priorities of the management of the authority. These outstanding payments according the communiqué would be paid as soon as all the hitches associated Treasury Single Account TSA are sorted out by the management. “All statutory outstanding payments to NPA workers and charges due to the stevedoring contractors on MV Hawk that berthed midstream at Bonny must be paid before the vessel is allowed to sail.”, the statement said. President –General of the MWUN, who expressed delight with the outcome of the negotiations, observed that the workers had to commence a nationwide strike last Thursday, to protest the non-payment of tally clerks and onboard security men in the last nine months. He observed that the leadership of the union was very reluctant to adopt the strike option but had to take the option, when it became clear that they were not taken serious, promising that the union would abide by the agreements contained in the communiqué believing that the management of the authority would also play its role effectively by ensuring that all issues regarding the TSA were addressed as soon as possible. It was gathered that the decision of the Federal Government to introduce the TSA, which has unified the remittance of payments by Ministries and Department of the government, is adversely affecting activities of some agencies, including NPA. Investigations showed that the authority was only able to pay its workers’ September salaries last week due to the new accounting system, which is the first time the authority is having such payment challenge. Meanwhile, port stakeholders have warned that the government should do everything in its powers to ensure that the nation’s seaports do not witness another shut down even for one day so as to forestall congestion.

,,,,

Business News

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nigerian, Akin-Olugbade, becomes AFC’s Lawyers, others sue MultiChief Operating Officer choice, CPC over alleged rights

Isaiah Erhiawarien

Nigerian, Dr. Adesegun Akin-Olugbade has been appointed as the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Africa Finance Corporation, AFC. Akin-Olugbade who was appointed from his previous role as Executive Director, Corporate Services is taking on additional responsibilities for IT and the newlyestablished, Investor and Country Relations functions. He also remains as the Corporation’s General Counsel and Head of Legal Department. An Harvard Law School alumnus who graduated top of the Nigerian Law School Class of 1984 and pioneer executive of the AFC, he boast of over 30 years’ experience in the legal profession and the financial services sector, having worked at both the technical and executive management levels, in the public and private sector, for leading commercial law firms, development banks and international financial institutions. He was previously General

Counsel and Director of the African Development Bank and pioneer Chief Legal Officer and Head of Legal Services Department of the African Export-Import Bank. He is an alumnus of several Executive Management programmes (including IMD). Also appointed with him is another Nigerian, is Mr. Oliver Tunde Andrews was appointed AFC’s Executive Director and Chief Investment Officer in September, 2014. A pioneer executive, he was previously the Corporation’s Director and Chief Coverage Officer, responsible for the Origination and Coverage Division, prior to that he was the CEO of Africa Infrastructure. In his current capacity, he is responsible for creating the corporation’s deal pipeline, leading endto-end deal execution and managing the corporation’s investment portfolio. An entrepreneurial engineer and transport economist with extensive background in engineering, transport and project finance, he has over 30 years’ experience in the various infrastructure sectors and 20 years as an infrastructure

project developer, financier and strategic adviser. Oliver is a former CEO of TCI Infrastructure Limited (TCII) and the Gambia Ports Authority. He has extensive international experience in infrastructure development and financing both from a public and private sector perspective, within and outside the African continent. He has successfully directed numerous infrastructure deals in Africa leading project development teams providing strategic, policy, program and commercial advice on infrastructure development issues to development financial institutions, international corporations, and Governments both in Africa and Europe. Andrews, an Electrical and Electronic Engineer, holds an MBA from the University of Wales, is a Chartered Marketer and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Transport and Logistics. The new appointments are part of major structural change that has been effected at the AFC with the intent of increasing the Corporation’s client responsiveness by creating sector clusters.

Gbenga Ogunbufunmi

n a bid to forestall his personal information data from being disclose to a third party, a legal practitioner, Francis Osagie Obaseki, has sued satellite pay TV operator, Multichoice Nigeria Limited and the Consumer Protection Council, CPC, of Nigeria before a Lagos High Court sitting at Ikeja. Also in a related, but separate suit, another Lagos lawyer, Adeolu Olumide Fusika, and three others, John Elegbe, Michael Obi and Damilare Animashaun, have also commenced legal action against Multichoice Nigeria Limited before the same court. In the suit filed by Obaseki and the other plaintiffs before the court, it was averred that as subscribers to the digital broadcasting satellite service of Multichoice, plaintiffs parties agreed to be bound by the terms and conditions of the subscription which stipulates that, Multi-choice is obligated not to disclose his personal information disclosed to it which includes name, telephone numbers, e-mail addresses, bank details and other vital information to third parties. However, the applicants said it was surprised when they learnt through various sources of information that a dispute exists between Multchoice and a con-

sumer, who complain about the company’s services, adding that the CPC in carrying out its investigation as a result of the complaint from the subscriber which did not include them, set up an investigative panel and part of information or documentation sought from Multichoice is the personal data of all the subscribers of multichoice, which includes his personal data. Plaintiffs contended that as part of its investigation of the consumers’ complain; the CPC is not statutorily empowered to demand for and received personal information of consumers who have not sent petition to it without the consent of the consumers. The plaintiffs averred that during the raid on the Multi-choice office on the 15th of October, 2015, CPC seized laptops and important documents of the company containing his personal information, while still attempting to retrieve personal information of other subscribers of the company. The plaintiffs described the action of the CPC as arbitrary, oppressive and in defiance of the rule of law, averred that since CPC is not a party to the contract between him and Multichoice, the agency does not have contractual

or statutory duty to protect his personal information, therefore the action of CPC are in breach of his fundamental right.

Angola enters the International Capital Market

….announces USD $1,500,000,000 sovereign debt bonds launch

ngola on Monday announced the launch of sovereign debt bonds in the international market in the L-R: Director General, Security and Exchange Commission Mr Mounir Gwarzo, Professor of Economics, University of Abuja Prof Uke Ezenme and Deceased Son Mr Chukwuemeka Odife during a Night of Tributes to the Doyen of Nigerian form of Eurobonds, amounting to Capital Market Sir Dennis Odife in Abuja USD $1,500,000 under the Executive public finance management policy, in accordance with the long-term economic and financial development programme. despite his earlier counsel that yet to file a memorandum of apAmong the main benefits that DENNIS NAKU, PORT HARthey settle the matter out of court. pearance as required by law. this sovereign issuance may lead COURT By failing to file a memoranAkambi said: “At the last adto are, diversification of sources journed date, I had advised the dum of appearance, he said Agip of external financing – a bond iswo oil and gas companies, parties to go for settlement and cannot bring any motion whatsosuance in the international marArco Group Plc and Ni- then come back and withdraw the ever before the court. ket offers diversification of fundOlanipekun, therefore, urged geria Agip Oil Company, matter from the court. ing sources; and establishment “But I am surprised that the two the court not to entertain any have been advised to explore of long-term funding sources – in peaceful settlement of the gas parties are in court today on the motion from the lead Counsel to the process of sovereign issuance, plant maintenance contract dis- same matter. I still advise that both Agip, Thompson Okpoko, also a the country has the opportunity to the plaintiff and the defendants Senior Advocate of Nigeria, on the pute. lay the foundation for establishing A Federal High Court in Port should go back and settle the mat- ground that the Italian firm is unlong-term relationships with inknown to the court. Harcourt, Rivers state presided ter,” he said. ternational investors in all major Instead, he prayed for hearing Earlier, Wole Olanipekun, Seover by Justice Lammbo Akambi financial centres worldwide; gave the advice on Monday at nior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN and on the motion he filed on June 22, Others are, positive impact in the resumed hearing of the case lead counsel to Arco, had drawn seeking the court to enter ruling terms of evaluation of Credit Ratthe court’s attention to the fact that on the gas plant maintenance conbrought before it. ing Agencies – access to global Akanbi expressed surprised months after they were served, tract dispute brought by the plainbond markets could be a positive that the parties still came to court Agip and the other defendants are tiff.

Contract Furore: Court urges oil firms to settle dispute

boost and increase confidence in the rating of bonds; construction of a yield curve – start of the process of creating the international yield curve, which enables sovereign nations to access capital markets easily and more often; and possible increase in international reserves – an international bond issuance can help increase the inflow of foreign capital and soon lead to the increase of international reserves. It is noteworthy that the sovereign issuance now taking place on the London Stock Exchange culminates the efforts begun in 2011, when, given that recourse to traditional sources of funding (bilateral, commercial and credit facilities) was then quite concentrated, which from the point of view of risk management and the associated costs is not recommended as it increases the country’s exposure to a particular funder, the Executive considered the need to seek alternative funding sources.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

EnergyWeek Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Court urges oil firms to settle dispute 32

NAMA test run Kano Area Control Centre 31

Alcatel Onetouch posts 4% net 31

Stakeholders urge govt to prioritise renewable energy investments

Solar panel

There are indications that the nation’s power challenge may remain unsolved in the short term, especially due to limited investments. UDEME AKPAN, CHIDI UGWU report that there will be improvement in the long term as stakeholders have expressed serious concerns for the development of renewable and other sub-sectors.

ith increased investments in many sectors of the nation’s economy, Nigeria’s daily national power demand has risen from 10,000 megawatts, mw to over 14,000mw in the past few months. The Presidential Task Force on Power indicated in its latest report that the nation currently generates less than 4,000mw which is insufficient to meet the rising demand. Besides, there are strong indications that the gap between demand and supply may likely continue to increase in the coming years for a reason. Investigations showed that not much would be invested in the short term to increase generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. But the situation may change for good in the long term as some stakeholders, including the Electricity Generation Companies, GENCOs and Electricity Distribution Companies,

DISCOs have started to take positive actions. Already, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry of power, Mr. Godknows Igali, has inaugurated a 17-member Power Sector Investment Catalogue, PSIC Committee that will produce a document that would guide investors in the sector. This is targeted at bringing about an improved power generation capacity and capability in the country. The Permanent Secretary maintained that the document will serve as a guide to would-be investors in the sector. Igali indicated that the Ministry will collaborate with state governments in the area of land allocation for solar power generation, as large area of land would be required, pointing out that with investors looking closely at the opportunities in the fledging energy sector in Nigeria, the government has commitment to establish a - level playing ground with positive and encouraging policies

and incentives. He identified the following, among others as the terms of reference for members of the committee; to identify the relevant stakeholders for the development of the PSIC, to include experts from the private sectors, the academia etc. Igali indicated that the committee would be requested in conjunction with other stakeholders to identify potential areas of investment in the Power Sector from Generation (Hydro, Thermal, Gas, Coal, Nuclear, Wind and Solar), to Transmission and Distribution value chain, as well as identify and recommend appropriate policy measures that would encourage massive investment in the sector. The Chairman of the Committee and Director, Investment and Sector Development Department (ISD), Mrs. Oluremi Akinsoji stressed that the responsibility of the committee is to produce a reliable document that will guide would - be power sector

investors in the country. Akinsoji assured the Permanent Secretary that the committee will perform credibly well, so as to justify the confidence repose in its members, pointing out that the committee will not disappoint the Government as it will operate strictly within the stipulated Terms of Reference. She assured the Ministry that working together with other members, the committee will come up with workable funding matrix that would guide investors and make the processes seamless for those that are desirous of operating in the nation’s power sector. The Managing Director of Tata Power, a subsidiary of Tata Group, Mr. Anil Sardana, maintained that the present administration’s renewed fight against corruption may have rekindled interest in investCONTINUED ON PAGE 34

Energy Week

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Stakeholders urge govt to prioritise renewable energy investments CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

ment in the country. Sardana, who worked formerly as a Director at the World Bank, promised that Tata Power would consider making a substantial investment in the energy sector, if the business environment is made conducive for foreign investors to come in and invest. He said: “You can be rest assured that Tata Power will come in leaps and bounds to contribute their quota towards Nigeria’s energy sector, which at this moment is not where it is supposed to be. Nigeria remains a very huge market with great potentials for investment. Just set your systems right and the whole world will be on their knees begging to invest. Nigeria is an energy surplus country, you can call the shots. Nigeria can be the biggest hub for energy. It is today the largest oil and gas producing country in Africa. There is no reason if you get your house in order, why the country cannot be an export hub to its neighbours.” “It is one of the countries in West Africa that our Tata Power is beaming our searchlight on and we are very keen as to what happens with the policy direction of the new President Muhammadu Buhari administration. With your election and transition from one government to another, we are waiting to see how things get done on the ground. “At the moment, the reason why we have management and technical advisers in Nigeria studying trends, is that we want to see how development unfolds. Let me not put numbers or timelines, let us not jump the gun on this. I think it is wrong without sitting on a particular plan, to predict numbers. But if ten years is what the global investment community is certain would be a period of economic and political stability in your country, forget about Tata”, Sardana added Unlike the past, much attention would be given to renewable energy. Already, the Rural Electrification Agency, REA has been advised to focus on the promotion of off-grid, mini-grid renewable energy solutions working with the private sectors investors to achieve fast rural electrification. The advice came as part of communiqué issued after a three-day conference during the 5th edition of the Nigeria’s Alternative Energy Exposition (NAEE) held Abuja, recently. The NAEE, a gathering of policy makers, researchers, manufacturers, investors and consumers brainstormed on how to provide best practices in clean, affordable, and equitable energy sufficiency in the 21st Century, at the event advised that in doing so, the agency should re-invent itself as the Renewable Energy Development Agency. The group has also urged the Federal Government to ensure that Renewable energy is a mainstream investments supported by Feed- in- Tariffs as is obtainable in other climes. Ac-

Amadi

Buhari

cordingly, it implored on the National Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC and the DISCOs to act decisively by providing regulatory framework for on and off-grid solution and the Nigerian Customs providing zero duty for renewable products as stipulated in Renewable Energy Policy (REP). NAEE highlighted the need for collaboration between the Federal and State Government and the Private Sector to support training and job creation provided they further decried the cost of investing in renewable energy infrastructure stating that it is unreasonable high (interest rate alone is over 26%) and called on relevant institutions to ensure that there is a downward trend in this regard so as to achieve sustainable production and consumption in the sector. According to the group, renewable energy and energy efficient policy will only be more potent if it is backed by law, hence it supports and encourage the Green Economy Nigeria Bill (GENB) soon be on the floor of the National Assembly which seeks to give legal teeth to sustainable agriculture, renewable energy and infrastructure. They posited that adequate regulations will boost access to energy services and ensure the sustainable growth of clean energy contribution to Nigeria’s energy mix and attract investors to the sector.

Solar

The Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, had at the maiden meeting of the African Energy Leaders’ Group held in Cote D’Ivoire, urged African nations to focus greater attention on development of renewable energy as major source of electricity. He had called for the reduction of bureaucracy and tariffs in order to make the business environment on the continent both attractive and profitable. “Although solar power is expensive now, but with all the investments in the world and creativity coming into it, it is becoming cheaper and cheaper. So, it represents for us a major source of power and renewable energy anywhere is a win-win situation.

We have so many structures set up and these are standard structures all over the world but the truth is that they take far too much time

There is no reason at all why renewable energy should not be our focus in Africa, in West Africa, in the next few years.” “I think there is need for us to reduce the bureaucracy involved in doing business in our different environment, first of all for local investments and then for international investments of any kind. There is a great need for freeing up the environment; there are just too many bureaucratic bottlenecks, too many stops, too many places you need to go to for approvals.” “So many of them trying to get a power purchase agreement takes so many months, sometimes years. And part of the reason is that we set up structures which we assume will make business easier but coming to grips with some of them involve so much time and energy. We have so many structures set up and these are standard structures all over the world but the truth is that they take far too much time. It is possible for us to have one-stop agency for a lot of bureaucracies that attend to getting approvals doing business in the environment,” he added.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Energy Week

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

We require $10trn to develop oil – OPEC

he Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC has projected that the world requires $10 trillion to boost investment in the oil industry between and 2040. It indicated that this level of investment is required because of increased dependence on oil in different countries. “In terms of oil, with demand projected to grow to 110 million barrels a day by 2040, oil-related investment requirements are estimated to be around $10 trillion between now and then. With all this in mind, let me stress that there is no doubt that the world has enough oil and energy resources to meet these expected future needs. The most recent analysis for the remaining ultimately recoverable oil resources puts the figure at 2.8 trillion barrels. And for natural gas, it is over 420 trillion standard cubic metres.” “It should be underscored that despite the continuing cumulative production, these numbers have increased over the past five decades. Moreover, these numbers do not take into account the large amounts of available unconventional oil and gas resources.The industry’s past successes are a reminder that innovation and new technologies are key to unlocking the abundant sources of oil and energy in an ever more sound, secure and responsible manner.” “In the coming years and decades, the industry can expect to see additional new technologies shift perceptions and prospects once more. This will be achieved through such developments as carbon capture and storage,

Oil vessel

advancements in enhanced oil recovery and the development of new oilbased materials for various industry sectors. It all points to the simple facts that the industry’s future will require more R&D; it will need more investment; and it will need more people,” it added. The Secretary General of the cartel, Dr. Abdalla S. El-Badri said it is also necessary to focus on the people and technology. “At its heart, the oil business is about people. All the innovation, technology and opportunities that are created in the industry depend to a great extent on the availability of talented and skilled people. Unfortunately, even before the recent cuts in manpower, the industry was experiencing critical shortages. The reasons for this are varied.” “For one, there is a sizeable section

of the industry’s workforce now rapidly approaching retirement. At the same time, the dramatic expansion in the services industry and ‘emerging knowledge’ economies has led to a fierce competition for talent. And the enrollment of students in energy-related programmes continues to be a challenge. Globally there is a shortage of young people entering the industry. It is vital that this is rectified.” “It is the sustained support for the industry’s scientists, engineers and visionaries – the people who create new ventures, new technologies and new techniques – that will drive our industry forward and expand supplies. Of course, we need to appreciate that the development of future hydrocarbon resources is directly linked to the short-, medium- and long-terms. None of these timeframes can be looked at in isolation,” he added.

We’ll not allow consumers to be exploited – Amadi CHIDI UGWU

he Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC has stressed that it will not operators in the power sector to exploit consumers. The chairman of the Commission, Dr. Sam Amadi maintained that the commission will continue to protect consumers. “We will not allow any frivolous claim by the operators to be passed to electricity consumers as tariff.” “That is a major reason we told them to consult with their customers after they submitted their applications to us,” he said. According to Amadi, NERC has em-

powered consumers through effective regulation to determine how the sector should function. Amadi urged consumers engage operators in order to bring about increase and quality services in the power sector. He said the call became necessary because of several complaints that the Commission has received from consumers which should have been addressed at the service providers’ level, in line with the Complaints Handling Standards and Procedure. According to him, distribution companies were given a uniform template for tariff application, part of which was for them to consult with customers before submitting same to the Com-

mission. A Senior Manager in the Market Competition and Rates Division, Mr. Aba Terab, explained that the components of electricity tariff ‘’as transmission charge for units of electricity delivered, cost of the bulk supply points, Disco’s cost of distributing through its network and retail cost, marketing, metering, billing and collection losses as well as capital expenditure for network reinforcements and new installations.’’ He indicated that the objective of the current tariff review was to achieve credible tariffs, address revenue shortfalls and enable Discos to meet their obligations to customers and to also firm up commitments between Discos and customers through ownership of the

Commodity

Units

Price

Change

% Change

Time(ET)

Crude Oil (WTI)

USD/bbl.

44.60

-1.10

-2.41%

11:38:24

Crude Oil (Brent)

USD/bbl.

47.46

-1.14

-2.35%

11:38:24

TOCOM Crude Oil

JPY/kl

35,900.00

-530.00

-1.45%

11:38:30

NYMEX Natural Gas

USD/MMBtu

2.60

+0.04

+1.56%

11:38:11

Source: Bloomberg as at October 7, 2015

process and effective consultation. He pointed out that in considering the tariff, the Commission shall work with the Discos to minimise the disparity in tariff between the tariff classes amongst the Discos. This follows earlier information by the Commission’s helmsman, who informed that the reports of the Discos consultation are on the websites of the individual Discos and on NERC’s website. ‘’ We expect comments as it is done all over the world, the comments usually become part of what will be used by the regulator to make decisions. This is a real search for tariff regime that will enable investors recover prudent cost and at the same time provide incentives for quality service for consumers ’’ Amadi said. He said the Commission is duty bound to ensure that only the right cost is passed to the customer. This is even as the Commission is committed to finalise approval of the tariff review applications by the end of October.

Energy Week

We’re operating accountable, transparent NNPC – Kachikwu

he Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu has maintained that he remains committed to operating a more transparent and accountable Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC. The GMD indicated that this is in line with the vision of the President Muhammadu Bahari-led administration. Kachikwu maintained that the new team has already put in place adequate processes and systems to accomplish set targets. “We have put in place adequate measures to operate a more accountable NNPC. Auditors will be engaged to audit the account of the Corporation from 2010 to 2015 before Decem ber this year. We have also cancelled contracts awarded by the previous administration. It is not that the contractors that won them were bad.” “But the contracts had to be cancelled be cause of allegations that due process were not taken in awarding them. There is need for us to create an equal platform for all to participate so that the corporation; and by extension the nation may have maximum value for funds utilised. The contracts will be opened to the whole world because it is when we keep it open that the best contractors will emerge.” “It will not because we will not directly set out to retrench. We intend to find new creative ways and means of growing our businesses. These will create bigger platforms for our qualified personnel to work. We need to work toward becoming more credible so that we can attract adequate funds and other resources to grow our businesses. We need to tackle the various problems, especially insecurity in order to stabilise operations, reduce cost and protect personnel. It should be noted that at $100 per barrel, many operators, including the NNPC expanded their invest ments in Nigeria and other parts of the world,” he added. He said at the present $40 per barrel, operators have very limited funds at their disposal, thus leading to low investment. The GMD indicated that the contributions of everyone, especially staff are required to get the industry out of the present poor state. He maintained that the management of the Corporation has also focussed on the contributions of personnel. The GMD said they should be ready to work and make immense contributions or leave others to step into their shoes. Commenting on crude oil lifting, he said in the past, all kinds of vessels were involved in crude oil lifting. He said indeed, there was speculation that some of them were involved in illegal activities.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Electricity supply drops to mw 3,960.82mw UDEME AKPAN

he nation’s electricity supply has dropped from 4,251.10mw to 3,960.82mw as a result of improved gas supply. Investigations showed that the drop in supply has culminated in power disruptions in some parts of the nation. The Presidential Task Force on Power which confirmed the development indicated that of the 4,029.39mw generated, 3,960.82mw was distributed while the balance was conserved. But many consumers still live in darkness because as the current generation is still below the nation’s 14,000mw estimated daily demand. Meanwhile, the chairman, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr Sam Amadi, has urged consumers to engage their service providers. This is on the back drop of barrage of complaints that the Commission receives from consumers which should have been addressed at the service providers’ level, in line with the Complaints Handling Standards and Procedure. Amadi made the call at a Public Consultation for the

review of tariff application by the distribution companies, which the Commission is subjecting to further reviews. According to him, distribution companies were given a uniform template for tariff application, part of which was for them to consult with customers before submitting same to the Commission. In a presentation on electricity tariff determination, Mr. Aba Terab, a Senior Manager in the Market Competition and Rates Division, explained components of electricity tariff ‘’as transmission charge for units of electricity delivered, cost of the bulk supply points, Disco’s cost of distributing through its network and retail cost, marketing, metering, billing and collection losses as well as capital expenditure for network reinforcements and new installations.’’ He explained that the objective of the current tariff review was to achieve credible tariffs, address revenue shortfalls and enable Discos to meet their obligations to customers and to also firm up commitments between Discos and customers through ownership of the process and effective consultation.

Meter

Amadi pointed out that in considering the tariff, the Commission shall work with the Discos to minimise the disparity in tariff between the tariff classes amongst the Discos. This follows earlier information by the Commission’s helmsman, who informed that the reports of the Discos consultation are on the websites of the individual Discos and on NERC’s website. ‘’ We expect comments as it is done all over the world, the comments usually become part of what will be used by the regulator to make deci-

sions. This is a real search for tariff regime that will enable investors recover prudent cost and at the same time provide incentives for quality service for consumers ’’ Amadi said. According to him, the Commission is duty bound to ensure that only the right cost is passed to the customer. This is even as the Commission is committed to finalise approval of the tariff review applications by the end of October. ‘’ The procedure for tariff review and approval is very strict and would be followed rigorously to ensure that such an approved tariff is credible, affordable and incentives efficiency’’

Babyloan, Total to create funds for energy devt

abyloan and Total have teamed up to develop the first crowd funding platform dedicated to access to energy in Africa and other parts of the world. The partners are aiming to accelerate access to energy and related financing solutions, particularly in Africa, Asia and Latin America, where the need is greatest. Worldwide, 1.3 billion people do not have access to electricity and 2.7 billion do not have access to clean cooking options1.

Transformer

While effective solutions exist, they are hard to access or unaffordable for people living in rural or near-urban areas, who spend a large portion of their inadequate income on sources of energy unsatisfactory for the environment2. By creating a crowd funding platform dedicated to access to energy, Babyloan and Total are combining their respective expertise - in crowd funding and microcredit for Babyloan and in access to energy projects for Total, through its Awango by

Total lineup of high-quality solar lamps mainly distributed in Africa. The collaboration will support the creation of local microbusinesses that will develop distribution networks to cover the last mile to reach isolated communities. Working with microfinance institutions (MFIs), it ensures that the money raised for a project is paid directly to a local MFI, which provides microcredit to entrepreneurs. This system offers better familiarity with the local economy and support for projects on the ground. “Crowd funding offers huge potential for developing access to energy projects,” says Arnaud Poissonier, Chief Executive Officer of Babyloan. “There aren‘t very many projects yet, but those that exist attract strong public support, because they have a significant social, economic and environmental impact. By teaming up with Total to give them great visibility through a dedicated platform, we will help to draw mi-

crofinance institutions to this sector. This new focus is also aligned with our determination to take part in the growth of green microfinance.” “Our experience on the ground in more than 30 countries has shown us that you need more than just good technical solutions to reach as wide a clientele in the low income communities as possible,” commented Jérôme Schmitt, Senior Vice President, Sustainable Development & Environment at Total. “You also need to provide access to financing, even tiny amounts, on a broad scale. We’re working on that in countries where our Awango by Total lineup is available. This innovative platform, created in partnership with a leader like Babyloan, will help us do that.” Babyloan and Total will début the access to energy crowd funding platform in early 2016. The platform hopes to be financing 2,000 micro businesses in a dozen countries within two years.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Energy Week

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

FG inaugurates investment committee for power sector CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

he Permanent Secretary, power, Ambassador Godknows Igali, has inaugurated a 17-member Power Sector Investment Catalogue ( PSIC) Committee that will produce a document that would guide investors in the sector, this is aimed at bringing about an improved power generation capacity and capability in the country. The Permanent Secretary said the document will serve as a guide to would-be investors in the sector. Igali further stated that the Ministry will collaborate with state governments in the area of land allocation for solar power generation, as large area of land would be required, pointing out that with investors looking closely at the opportunities in the fledging energy sector in Nigeria, the government has commitment to establish a - level playing ground with positive and en-

couraging policies and incentives. The Permanent Secretary identified the following, among others as the terms of reference for members of the committee; to identify the relevant stakeholders for the development of the PSIC, to include experts from the private sectors, the academia etc. He further said that the committee would be requested in conjunction with other stakeholders to identify potential areas of investment in the Power Sector from Generation (Hydro, Thermal, Gas, Coal, Nuclear, Wind and Solar), to Transmission and Distribution value chain, as well as identify and recommend appropriate policy measures that would encourage massive investment in the sector. Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Committee and Director, Investment and Sector Development Depart-

Power plant

ment (ISD), Mrs. Oluremi Akinsoji said that the responsibility of the committee is to produce a reliable document that will guide would - be power sector investors in the country. Akinsoji assured the Permanent Secretary that the committee will perform credibly well, so as to justify the confidence repose in its members, stressing that the committee will not disappoint the Government as it will operate strictly within the stipulated Terms of Reference.

She assured the Ministry that working together with other members, the committee will come up with workable funding matrix that would guide investors and make the processes seamless for those that are desirous of operating in the nation’s power sector. In a related development, the Managing Director of India’s Tata Power, a subsidiary of one the conglomerate, Tata Group, Mr. Anil Sardana has said the present administration’s renewed fight against corruption may have rekindled interest in investment in the country.

Oando explains N183.9bn loss in 2014 CHIDI UGWU

with Agency Report

ando at the weekend reported in its full-year ending 2014, a loss after tax of N183.9 billion compared to a profit after tax of N1.396 billion in 2013. Also in its half-year unaudited results for 2015, the company recorded another loss after tax of N35.12 billion from a profit after tax of N8.980 billion in the corresponding period in 2014. The company blamed the loss to the global challenges in the oil and gas sector. It stated: “The world’s big energy groups have also shelved $200 billion of spending on new

Fuel tanker

projects in an urgent round of cost-cutting as pricing volatility is sustained. “To curb the global oil downturn’s effect on the mono-resource driven Nigerian economy and to counter mounting currency pressure, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) moved to shore up foreign exchange and prevent further depletion of the country’s reserves. “The CBN has in effect devalued the naira by 22 per cent since November 2014, and the key interest rate has remained at an all-time high of 13 per cent with cash reserve requirements at 31 per cent. “With oil prices plummet-

ing by nearly 60 per cent, the domino effect of the global slump has seen Nigeria’s oil export receipts decline dramatically, and indigenous firms have faced a scale-back in proposed joint ventures with IOCs, deeper cuts to capital spending, finding new markets to counter US reluctance to buy, investor wariness, and critically, higher lending local terms due to a weakened naira. “As much-needed foreign investment stays away, another key implication of the CBN’s action, local banks have also significantly reduced transactions with indigenous oil firms to curtail non-performing loans in the sector and fiscal challenges in meeting vast funding demands.” Oando said it scored significant operational highlights by increasing its 2P net reserves by 82 per cent from 230.6 millions barrels of oil equivalent (MMboe) to 420.3 MMboe and growing average production from 4,531 boe/day in H1 2014 to 55,399 boe/day in H1 2015. Giving details during a visit to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Wale Tinubu, Group Chief Executive of Oando, said: “Our nation is experiencing change, as witnessed from the tone of redirection in the oil and gas industry, which will lead to

improved accountability and operational efficacy in all governmental agencies in this sector. “Our business is also experiencing this change with the sale of 60 per cent of our downstream business in line with our strategic goals, placing fundamental growth expectations on the upstream division, as already evidenced in the 11-fold increase in production and 82 per cent increase in 2P reserves. “The cash proceeds of the divestment will be utilised towards further optimisation of our balance sheet.” He also explained that it recorded losses in 2014 due to impairments of N76.9 billion (41.8 per cent) in exploration and production, N16.9 billion (9.2 per cent) in under-lift and JV receivables loss, N37.1 billion (20.2 per cent) in its rig business impairment, and N7.3 billion (3.9 per cent) in foreign exchange losses. 75.1 percent of the impairments have been declared as non-cash related. “Appropriate consolidation of Oando’s subsidiaries’ accounts and painstaking due diligence undertaken as a result of the magnitude of impairments have been cited as the primary reasons behind the delay of the year-end statements,” Tinubu added.

SPDC JV supports 20 health centres in Niger Delta

etermined to improve health care in communities where it operates, Shell Petroleum Development Company and its joint venture partners have granted support to 20 health centres in the Niger Delta. The company indicated that the SPDC JV had supported community health projects in the Niger Delta since the 1980s, with equipment and pharmaceutical donations as well as the construction of hospitals and implementation of malaria and HIV/AIDs control programmes. For instance, it maintained that about 5000 people in Oloibiri area of Bayelsa State have benefitted from a health outreach organised by the company. The company indicated that working closely with the Bayelsa State Government, Ogbia Local Government Council and other partners, SPDC took the comprehensive health outreach to 18 communities giving the beneficiaries dental and eye care/surgery, screening for blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and malaria, HIV/AIDS counseling and testing, immunisation, pharmaceutical and laboratory services as well as treatment for chronic and minor ailments. It disclosed that SPDC also used the outreaches to create awareness on the Oloibiri Health Programme, a Shell-sponsored three-year initiative that is expected to promote universal health coverage, strengthen existing health systems, establish learning and operations research, and enhance the social determinants of health in Oloibiri field communities. The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Health Dr. Ayibatonye Owei flagged off the outreach at Ogbia town on September 10 as he dewormed children and presented Long Lasting Insecticide Treated Nets (LLITNs) to pregnant women. He said: “This health programme Shell is implementing in Ogbia Local Government Areas is most commendable as no other oil company has done such a thing in Bayelsa State despite many years of oil extraction.” The health outreach then moved to Kolo Creek communities where the Agholo of Agholo, HRH N.D. Amakuro, expressed joy at diverse health professionals providing quality service to the people. The traditional ruler was happy at the implementation of the Oloibiri Health Programme, and that the Kolo General Hospital was earmarked to serve as the secondary facility/referral centre for the programme. Some beneficiaries testified to the kind of care they received in the hands of the doctors and nurses.

Energy Week

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

W. Africa crude market weakens in initial December deals

FMC Technologies records 22% drop in revenue in Q1

UDEME AKPAN

with Agency Report

est African crude oil differentials were coming under pressure on Monday from ample supply and lacklustre buying interest for remaining November and newly available December cargoes. Reuters maintained that Angolan exports in December are set to be slightly up from November and offer levels of many grades are lower than asking prices in the previous monthly trading cycle. “Offer levels are down and the traded levels are down as well,” said a trader, referring to initial deals of December cargoes in the Angolan market. In the Nigerian market, a sizeable amount of unsold crude for November was weighing on differentials. November cargoes still available were cargoes of Pazflor and Kissanje, a trader said. Offer levels heard for December cargoes included the following, relative to dated Brent: Some of these in one trader’s view have already been trimmed from the initial offers made last week. Angolan exports are set to rise slightly in December to around 1.80 million barrels per day (bpd), up from 1.77 million bpd planned in November. About 20 cargoes of November-loading cargoes are still unsold, although traders said about a third of these could head into equity producers’ own refining systems, reducing the overhang. Qua Iboe was notionally offered at dated Brent plus $1.20 to $1.30. One trader said cargoes would struggle to fetch dated plus $1.00. So far, loading programmes have emerged detailing 51 cargoes in December. A handful of programmes have yet to appear. Tender results from Indian refiner HPCL, Taiwan’s CPC and Indonesia’s Pertamina are due this week, traders said last week. Meanwhile, the price of OPEC basket of 12 crudes stood at 43.44 dollars a barrel on Thursday, compared with $43.67 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The new OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Oriente (Ecuador), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

MC Technologies, a major oil servicing company with presence in Nigeria has recorded a third quarter 2015 revenue of $1.5 billion, down 22 percent from the prioryear quarter. The setback is attributed to the continued decline in the North American land market that severely impacts our Surface Technologies segment and the negative impact of the strengthening U.S. dollar in our Subsea Technologies segment. Diluted earnings per share were $0.35, which includes pre-tax impairment charges of $60.2 million, or $0.20 per diluted share, and total Company pre-tax business restructuring charges of $17.9 million, or $0.06 per diluted share. Total inbound orders were $1.5 billion, including $1.0 billion in Subsea Technologies orders. Backlog for the Company was $5.0 billion, including Subsea Technologies backlog of $4.3 billion. According to John Gremp, Chairman and CEO of FMC Technologies, “The North American onshore market’s prolonged decline negatively impacted our company’s financial results. In response, we continued to take significant actions to reduce our costs.” He added, “Our Subsea Technologies segment delivered strong operating performance in the third quarter

and we received two major awards resulting in another quarter of more than $1.0 billion in orders.” “We achieved several critical milestones this quarter, not only for our company, but for the industry. We reached an agreement with Shell to provide our first subsea multiphase pump. We added Chevron as the fifth operator in our joint industry program for standardizing high pressure/high temperature subsea systems. And, Forsys Subsea, our joint venture with Technip, received two integrated front-end engineering studies. These are tangible examples of how the industry is adopting standardization, innovative technology, and new business models to improve deepwater project economics,” said Gremp. Subsea Technologies third quarter revenue was $1.1 billion, down 16 percent from the prior-year quarter due to the strength of the U.S. dollar. Excluding the negative impact of the strong U.S. dollar, total revenue was down less than four percent year-over-year. Subsea Technologies operating profit decreased 16 percent from the prior-year quarter to $170.7 million, primarily due to $14.6 million of business restructuring costs. Excluding the negative impact of the strong U.S. dollar and the restructuring charges incurred in the current quarter, total operating profit was up approximately four percent

Oil rig

year-over-year. Subsea Technologies operating margins were 16.9 percent, excluding the business restructuring charges. The company backlog was $4.3 billion, including a negative quarterly impact of translation to backlog of $344.7 million. Surface Technologies third quarter revenue was $361.0 million, down 35 percent from the prior-year quarter due to much lower activity levels in the North American market. It recorded an operating loss of $22.5 million, when including impairment charges of $58.0 million primarily related to our Surface Technologies’ Canadian operations and restructuring charges of $1.6 million related to all businesses. The impaired Canadian assets are linked to the 2012 acquisition of Pure Energy Services Ltd. and due to the

prolonged decline in market activity. Surface Technologies operating profit decreased 66 percent from the prior-year quarter to $37.1 million, excluding impairment and restructuring charges. Surface Technologies operating margins were 10.3 percent, excluding the impairment and business restructuring charges. It puts its energy infrastructure third quarter revenue at $97.1 million, down 22 percent from the prior-year quarter primarily due to further activity decreases in our measurement solutions business. Energy Infrastructure reported operating loss of $2.0 million compared to the prior year quarter profit of $5.1 million. The loss primarily resulted from reduced revenue and $1.7 million of additional business restructuring charges.

Climate research reports inaccurate, misleading – ExxonMobil

xxon Mobil Corporation has faulted media and environmental activists’ allegations about the company’s climate research, saying such report are inaccurate and misleading. “For nearly 40 years we have supported development of climate science in partnership with governments and academic institutions, and did and continue to do that work in an open and transparent way,” said Ken Cohen, vice president of public and government affairs. “Activists deliberately cherrypicked statements attributed to various company employees to

Oil spill

wrongly suggest definitive conclusions were reached decades ago by company researchers. “These activists took those statements out of context and ignored other readily available statements demonstrating that our researchers recognized the developing nature of climate science at the time which, in fact, mirrored global understanding.” “We embarked on decades of research in collaboration with many parties, including the Department of Energy, leading academic institutions such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University and others to advance

climate science.” ExxonMobil scientists continue to research and publish findings to improve understanding of climate system science as a basis for society’s response to climate change and have produced more than 50 peer-reviewed publications on topics including the global carbon cycle, detection and attribution of climate change, low carbon technologies and analysis of future scenarios for energy and climate. ExxonMobil scientists have been selected by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the United Nations’ most authoritative body on the subject, as authors of their past four major assessment reports, and have contributed to National Research Council boards and committees on climate change. “We recognize that our past participation in broad coalitions that opposed ineffective climate policies subjects us to criticism by climate activist groups,” said Cohen. “We will continue to advocate for policies that reduce emissions while enabling economic growth.” Since 2009, the company has supported a revenue-neutral carbon tax as the preferred policy approach for emission reduction because it ensures a uniform and predictable cost of carbon, allows market

prices to drive solutions, maximizes transparency to stakeholders, reduces administrative complexity, promotes global participation, and is easily adjusted to future developments in climate science and policy impacts. ExxonMobil joined other companies to provide initial and ongoing funding to create and support the MIT Joint Program on Climate Science and Policy and Stanford’s Global Climate and Energy Project, which has engaged scores of researchers, faculty and students and has resulted in hundreds of scientific publications on climate change and low carbon technologies. The company has an active research program into lower-carbon emission technologies, such as algae and cellulosic-based biofuels, carbon capture and storage and advanced engines to name a few. ExxonMobil, the largest publicly traded international oil and Gas Company, uses technology and innovation to help meet the world’s growing energy needs. ExxonMobil holds an industryleading inventory of resources and is one of the world’s largest integrated refiners, marketers of petroleum products and chemical manufacturers.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Industry & SMEs

NACCIMA urges Turkey to invest in Nigerian economy STORIES: ABOLAJI ADEBAYO

he Nigerian Association of Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mine and Agriculture, NACCIMA, has appealed to Turkish investors to invest in Nigeria to help grow the country’s economy and also reap the dividends of their investments. The President of the Association, Chief Bassey Edem, said there was need for the Turkey investors to bring down their businesses into Nigeria, adding that the country has been taking advantage of Nigeria’s raw materials while exporting its finished products into the country thereby affecting Nigeria’s productivity. Edem, who made the appeal at the just concluded Buildmacex and Interior Expo 2015 in Lagos, told the Turkish investors to leverage on the business opportunities in Nigeria by bringing down their investments into the country. Represented by the Director General of the Association, Emmanuel Cobham, the association’s President advised investors form Turkey to produce their goods in Nigeria instead of carting away raw materials and bringing the finished products in return. According to the NACCIMA boss, the Turkey investors would contribute positively to the Nigerian economy if they could invest in machineries and technologies to add value to the Nigerian raw materials within its territory.

L-R: Chairman Coleman Wires and Cables, Chief Solomon Onafowokan; Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun; Chairman Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry Alhaj iRemi Bello and Managing Director/CEO Bank of Industry, Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa, at the Commissioning of Coleman Wires and Cables Arepo Factory at Arepo, Ogun State at the weekend. PHOTO: ADEMOLA AKINLABI

Meanwhile, the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Hakan Cakil, promised that the Turkish Government would be ready to invest in the production section of the Nigerian economy. He noted that the volume of trade between Nigeria and Turkey in 2014 stood at $2.5billion. The Envoy said he had talked to the Turkey’s investors to take Nigeria as their points of productions, adding that

part of his efforts was the presence of the Turkey’s business men at the Buildmacex and Interior Expo 2015 to showcase their products as well as networking and making partnership with the Nigerian investors. The Managing Director of Atlantic Exhibitions, the organizer of the Buildmacex and Interior Expo 2015, Ayo Paul, said there was new trend in business networking going on globally, which has

been the new approach in the development of nations’ economies. According to him, it became a necessity for every stakeholder to support the Nigerian government in the development of the country’s economy by bringing potential foreign investors into the country. He added that the government should also create conducive environment while encouraging public private partnership, PPP, to drive the development of the economy. He said: “We are seeing an increasing trend globally for networking, conferences and new approaches in developing nations. Development of Nigeria is very much recognised and truly vital to all of us. We as Atlantic Exhibitions personally are ready to be part of this great initiative of Government to support and bring investment opportunities into Nigeria. Undoubtedly BUILDMACEX is part of that initiative wherein our focus is generating more and more opportunities for networking, B2B meetings, and Focused forum. “I personally feel there is a compelling need to create more water ways for transport to reduce traffic in our city to increase the working hours leading to more economic growth. Secondly, we could have bigger international focused Exhibition and Conference in the commercial capital of Nigeria Lagos in the form of PPP, Private Public Partnership. I would surely like to be a part of that initiative.

Telco harps on e-commerce benefits for SMEs O ne of the nation’s telecommunications service provider, Etisalat, has called on Small and Medium Enterprises, SMEs, and startup businesses in the country to embrace the electronic commerce model

Cocoa processing machine

of business to boost their capacity and efficiency. The telco’s Head of Enterprise Marketing, Bidemi Ladipo, made this call while speaking on the ‘Role of Mobile Penetration in Online Commerce’ at

the recent Webmall Connect Commerce Conference 2015, sponsored by the company in Lagos. He said that startup businesses and SMEs would benefit immensely from having online presence because it is a cost effective and faster way to increase their reach. To underscore the huge opportunities in e-Commerce, Ladipo noted that out of the over 150 million active GSM lines in Nigeria, 89 million of the subscribers use the internet with 75 per cent of these having access to the internet via mobile devices. “Having your businesses on the digital space offers you lots of advantage; it reduces your overhead and increases your visibility and reach. At Etisalat, we are committed to offering quality of service both in voice and data, and to continuously provide solutions that help enterprises and startups grow and sustainable,” he said. He also said that as part of efforts aimed at encouraging SMEs to connect their businesses online, the Telco offered affordable and fastest internet data service and voice service including the Close User Group, CUG, platform to bring down cost on calls and

data usage. Speaking in a panel discussion, the Managing Director, Webmall, Wole Faroun said that the digital space offered SMEs and startup businesses numerous opportunities to grow and expand exponentially. According to him, awareness and knowledge about e-Commerce were not as high as it is today in three years back, adding that more people now know about e-Commerce. He said although the full potential of the e-business model has yet to be fully appreciated, e-Commerce offers huge potentials than people are benefiting now. Head, Business Development, Google Nigeria, Jola Aderemi-Makinde said she was delighted that more businesses in Nigeria were embracing digital applications, and assured Google’s continued commitment in this regard. “Our focus now is to help local businesses succeed online. There are different tools available to SMEs for them to achieve their business objectives. Startups and SMEs should take advantage of these tools to expand their businesses,” she noted.

Cocktail

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Oddities

Woman blows up own home

nvestigators said yesterday that a Massachusetts woman who was trying to perform repairs on her house ended up blowing it up instead. The homeowner escaped from her Taunton residence before the fire and explosion but no one was hurt. State Fire Marshal

Stephen Coan and Fire Chief, Timothy Bradshaw, said that the woman had tried to repair her gas-fueled hot water heater and inadvertently removed the gas shut-off valve. This allowed gas to pour into the basement, where it ignited. The house is considered a total loss.

Diver removes famous skeletons from River

diver who felt he didn’t get his fair share of the credit for discovering two fake skeletons sitting in lawn chairs at the bottom of the Colorado River, Martin Sholl, has removed them from their watery grave. Reports said Sholl spotted the skeletons, adorned in sunglasses, flip-flops, a bi-

kini and a rainbow-colored wig, tethered to lawn chairs while scuba diving in the river near the Arizona-California line in May. He alerted the La Paz County Sheriff’s Office, and authorities discovered the skeletons were plastic. “Skeleton tea party,” Sholl said. “It was funny. The next day when my friend called

and told me that the chaos I created was on every morning show in the country, I was shocked. I found out they didn’t mention me at all.” Instead, Sholl said the media focused on La Paz County Deputy Curt Bagby, who led the recovery of the skeletons and investigated how they ended up in the river. When Sholl called a

School boasts prominent pup’s gravesite

school named to the National Register of Historic Places has an unusual feature on its grounds: the gravesite of a dog considered to be the father of the American Cocker Spaniel. The marble block at the edge of the Rollinsford Grade School’s playground marks the remains of Obo

II, who was born in the United States in 1882 and died in 1895. He was the offspring of two cocker spaniel show dogs from England. His owner, James Willey, owned part of the land now occupied by the school. The designation by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior for the nearly 80-year-old

Colonial Revival school was announced Monday. The school still has its copperroof cupola, its chalkboards’ frames and troughs and most of the original doors, woodwork and intercom system. It was the prototype of an architectural firm’s design that was used on at least 14 other schools in New Hampshire and Maine.

Photo showing the famous fake skeleton

news outlet, he was told that Bagby wasn’t sure he would want to speak. “When you’re dealing with the media (as a law enforcement officer), you can’t assume that people want to be named,” Bagby said. Since the skeletons were discovered, they have become an attraction to recreational divers.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Omeiza Ajayi

he Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, has concluded arrangements to return all persons displaced by activities of Boko Haram and who are currently in various camps in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to their respective states. Director General, FCT Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, Abass Idriss, disclosed this yesterday at an interface with the media in Abuja. He said there are over 10, 000 internally displaced persons in the territory, explaining that the initiative to send them back to their states of origin or designated places close to their original homes was to commence with 500 of the displaced persons who had indicated interest to be so assisted. Idriss added that the agency would give priority to the first set of persons that already indicated interest to return home.

Civil Service 41

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

FCTA to return 500 IDPs home He argued that the best thing to do with regards to the internally-displaced persons was to send them back to their states, and recalled that stakeholders’ meeting was already ongoing in Maiduguri on how to assist the persons displaced by insurgency in the state to return to their communities. The FEMA boss stated that the agency contacted its counterpart in Borno State to intimate the state that some of her natives were in various camps in Abuja but disclosed that the Borno emergency agency said it was not aware of such persons being in the capital territory. Idriss disclosed that the current locations where those displaced by Boko Haram were housed were not set up by FCT administration, as according to him, it would amount to a crime to open such camps. According to him, his agency never promised to

establish such camps when it was inaugurated but only promised to establish designated camps with necessary facilities to cater for emergency situations so that when such happened affected persons would just be moved in there. He said the immediate past administration gave approval for land for that purpose. The FEMA boss, how-

ever, gave assurance that there was nothing to fear about insurgents infiltrating the camps in Abuja, as there was watertight security at the various camps. He also disclosed that profiling of the displaced persons was done while the agency went into collaboration with its partners to have the persons in the camps vaccinated against common diseases, in ad-

…as NSCDC dominates CCSF tourney Joel Ajayi ABUJA

mpressed with the ingenuity and immense contribution of Chika Chukwumerije Sports Foundation (CCSF) to taekwondo development and promotion, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has promised to enter into

a four-year strategic partner with the foundation. However, the 3rd CCSF International Taekwondo Open witnessed a large turnout of athletes across the continent with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) dominating the eight events competed for at the two-day championship.

FG orders protection of prisoners’ rights

he federal government has ordered all controllers of prison formations across the country to ensure adequate protection of the rights of all prison inmates. Giving the directive on behalf of the government, Controller General of the Nigeria Prisons Service, Dr. Peter Ekpendu, said the service was committed to all international charter on human rights to which Nigeria is signatory.

Ekpendu was speaking yesterday in Abuja when he jointly unveiled a new Human Rights Training Manual and Guide with the Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Niger and Chad, Eric Mayoraz. Mayoraz whose home government sponsored the development of the manual said “the two countries have been working closely on various issues including that of human rights.” According to him, ensuring that Human Rights are main-streamed as a natural and integral part of the operations by the Nigerian Prisons Service

you want to get. The better thing is to send them back to their homes or close to their homes. “It is a crime for anybody to tamper with relief materials meant for these people. That is why when we came on board, we said that we are not going to lay emphasis on giving relief materials except when there is disaster but we work to avert disasters.”

NSC to partner CCSF on taekwondo development

L-R: Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara; Governor Idris Wada of Kogi State and Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State, during the National Council of State meeting, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, recently.

Omeiza Ajayi

dition to the provision of other healthcare services. He said, “Today, we are managing them to see how they can go back to their families. “They are not getting what is due to them and to that effect, there is no better option than to find ways to return them to their states. “It is one thing to decide to go where you want to, but another to get what

is a very important endeavour. “Over the last years we have been working closely together to build the capacity of NPS staff to comply with international standard in the training of inmates,” he stated. Mayoraz said the manual would improve the system and modernise the operations of the prisons in the field of human rights. On his part, Ekpendu said the manual would assist the service with the best training for its officers. “We also train prisons officers from other

West African countries. We would inculcate this knowledge in them and all those who pass through our training schools in the country,” he assured.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the championship held at the Sheraton Hotel, Abuja, Director General of NSC, Alhassan Yakmut said with what CCSF had been doing in terms of its programmes, it was clear that the foundation had been able to champion the ideals of the commission. According to him, I am convinced beyond any doubt that CCSF has done a lot to promote and develop taekwondo in Nigeria. For us at NSC, we want to partner organisation like this because they are doing things that are in line with our vision. He said: “the atmosphere at this year’s tournament is what obtained globally in terms of international standard and I don’t think any reasonable person will not be impressed with what we have seen here tonight. “Apart from the tournament, they have done workshop and other developmental activities to support the upcoming athletes. With this, NSC will be entering into fouryear strategic partnership with CCSF to champion the development and promotion of taekwondo which is an Olympic sport in Nigeria. So, from 2016, the collaboration will take off with NSC fully supporting the foundation in all its activities,” Alhas-

san said. Meanwhile, after two days of competitive action, NSCDC confirmed why it is committed to sports in Nigeria when its athletes dominated the medal table at the 3rd CCSF Open concluded at the weekend. Nigeria Civil Defence amassed four gold, one silver and four bronze medals to beat Mali and Niger Republic to second and third places on the medal table. Aslo, Mali again showed why it remains the taekwondo power house in Africa when the two inspired by Soumare Karamoko won two gold and two bronze medals while Niger Republic won same number of gold with one silver and one bronze medals. From the 284 athletes that featured in the competition which has the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF)-certified referees handling proceedings, Mali’s Karamoko was voted the best male athlete while NSCDC’s Chinazum Nwosu won the best female diadem. While, Cameroonians sole representative who fought his way into the final in the men’s -80kg to clinch silver medal won the fair play award for his sportsmanship during the final match, which he lost to NSCDC’s Segun Olushola.

Send forth for Alabi, King Ado High School principal

he retiring principal of King Ado High School, Lagos Island, Mr. Tajudeen Tunde Alabi, will be sent forth today at the school’s premises in Lagos. According to a release by the school in collaboration with the Old Students Association, the ceremo-

ny will also be used to commemorate the 60th birthday of the principal. The chief host of the occasion is the current principal of King Ado Junior School, Mrs. Pereira Taibat Aina. Mr. Alabi won numerous awards during his meritorious service and

they include JumokeOkoya Thomas computer room 2009; Eko Club London refurbishment of toilets, 2009; District III Best WASCE candidate (2010), Ogundimu Omolara and the United Football Club sponsorship of student to Portugal 2012.

Civil Service

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Art of Friendship, tool for development, says Maku Joel Ajayi, ABUJA

he Director General of National Gallery of Art NGR, Abdullahi Maku, has assured Nigerians that the ‘Art of Friendship’ exhibition’ will have positive impact toward promoting unity and sustainable development among the nations around the world. The Art of Friendship exhibition initiated in 2012 as a platform for Nigerian artists to crossfertilise ideas with their counterparts from other nations through their embassies in Nigeria took place last year. This year’s exhibition featured 85 works of art, comprising paintings, mix-media, drawing, sculpture and printmaking from Nigeria and four other countries: Republic of Czech, Germany, China and Republic of South Korea. Maku, who spoke at the at the weekend, in Abuja, during the opening ceremony of the third edition of the exhibition said the event was both for its economic benefits to the country generally and the artists in particular. Maku, however, stated that the National Gallery of Art was excited to be part of the collaborative effort which aimed at capturing and promoting the divergent creative spirits from three continents. He said: “Africa, Asia and Europe. The Art of Friendship exhibition always presents us a window of opportunity to showcase outstanding works of art from Nigeria’s national collection on the same platform as fantastic art from around the world. “Building on the success of previous editions, we anticipate the exhibits on display to impact the viewers beyond mere aesthetics. It is our hope that this impact reaches dimensions that positively affect the educational and socio-economic needs of today and tomorrow while showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and her talented artists. “The Art of Friendship exhibition, through the various works on display, is contributing to a deeper knowledge of the global creative industry. The cross-fertilisation

of ideas encapsulated in these works of art will further deepen cross cultural creative expression and equip emerging artists with a new visual language.” He however added that: “The role of the visual arts in fostering a better understanding of the diverse cultures on planet earth is yet to be optimally utilised. The universality of the language of art can be used to effectively communicate the desirability of global peace and security by emphasising the fact that we are interrelated, inter-dependent and inter-connected while de-emphasing the things that make us different. “The intrinsic role of the visual arts and exploiting this tool in promoting sustainable development. This rich array of creative cultural diversity is sure to whet the appetite of art enthusiasts and stimulate a thirst and fresh desire for more of such rich feasts,” he said. On his own, the Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Noh Kyu-Duk, solicited for more participating nation’s that would enhance robust and mutual cooperative relations further. According to him, it is through the magic of art that people with different linguistic and cultural backgrounds can get together and feel same emotion via artistic media. He said, “It’s a great privilege for the embassy of Korea and the Korean cultural center in Nigeria to be able to play an active role in promoting international culture and art exchange here in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria for the past five years.”

New Ogun State Head of Service, Elder Abraham Olusola Adeyemi (right), taking the oath of office, in front of Barrister Segun Lanre-Iyanda of Ministry of Justice at the swearing-in at Abeokuta.

Stakeholders seek ICT for universal healthcare by 2020 Regina Otokpa, ABUJA

takeholders have averred that the usage of information communication technology in the health sector will help achieve universal health care delivery across the country by the year 2020. This was the stance of the Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency, Dr. Peter Jack, and other speakers during a preparatory technical meeting to Africa’s e-Health Summit 2016 with the theme “Digitalising Healthcare in Africa to Achieve Universal Health Coverage’. According to the DG, the usage of ICT in the health sector would not only help preserve human capital, create more jobs and advance economic potentials,

but would reduce to the barest minimum, the rate of infant mortality in the country. He noted that the agency alongside relevant bodies, were working assiduously towards developing a national health information framework to allow for an environment of inter-connectivity within the health system to ease the flow of information to improve the quality of health care delivery. He said: “We started the process by trying to develop a national IT policy for health but found out that the ministry of health and the UN foundation were already working on a similar project to develop a national e-Health framework, so we decided to synchronise all our efforts and now we are talking about a multistakeholder partnership

strategy where all the players are involved. “There are some critical information that are necessary to be shared because doctors cannot treat people if they do not know some important bit of information. “Within the framework, we are talking about health information exchange where hospitals will decide within the approval of their patients, what level of information should be there. “There are some very vital information to deal with allergy to some drugs, to do with conditions that if you are treated with the wrong type of medication it could lead to disaster so those basic information that are necessary for doctors to do their work correctly have to be there,” Jack added.

BRISIN concepts’ll fast track national development –Perm Sec Chidi Ugwu, ABUJA

he Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Alhaji Aliyu Isma’ila, has said that the Basic Registry and Information System In Nigeria (BRISIN) will fast track the nation’s economic development. BRISIN is the national integrated data and information infrastructure designed to provide a solid foundation for planning and socio-economic growth in Nigeria.

Isma’ila said this when a delegation led by Dr. Anthony Uwa, Head BRISIN implementation in Nigeria, paid him a courtesy visit, to sensitise management and staff of the ministry on the importance of the concept. He said that the basic concept of BRISIN was the change which the country needed in the present economic situation, adding that it included security, good governance, employment, and stable economy. The permanent secretary said that all issues relating to the nation’s

economic development should be conceptualised under the National Planning Commission. He urged all ministries and agencies to embrace the concept as it would engender both economic and social development to the nation. Earlier, Uwa said the concept was targeted at bringing together all aspects of the nation’s economic growth through the use of data. He said that data received would be used to plan for the management of the nation’s resources.

Uwa said that BRISIN was also expected to bring solutions to issues such as insecurity, unemployment and corruption, among others. He explained that BRISIN would assist government in providing information on citizens which could be used as social security numbers. Uwa said if government fully adopted the BRISIN concept, information on every citizen residing in the country would be traced just with a click.

Olasupo Oyedepo, Country Director ICT for Saving One Million Lives (SOML), maintained that the framework when finalised, would help provide necessary guidance in the proper use and application of ICT in the health sector. He explained that there was need to set up national health ICT governance structures to oversee the planning, implementation, coordination, governance and evaluation and also, support states to establish same structures especially at the level of primary healthcare. Oyedepo further noted that “The framework will define and set the rule for how we use technology in health. There are a lot of electronic medical records, there are lots of usage of technology in health. “If you define the rule and guidelines for using technology in health, we will be saving every human life in this country whether Nigerian or foreign.” In his remarks, the Director General National Health Insurance Scheme, Mr. Olufemi Akingbade, disclosed that digitalising the health sector was a great step in actualising universal health care delivery. Represented by Ken Okoroafor, he said “ICT is a catalyst in speeding up things in every area. It will help us in having universal health care by 2020 which will only be possible through synergy with other relevant agencies.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Wednesday October 28, 2015

Rivers PDP chairman urges members to remain resolute Ayo Esan

ivers State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Bro Felix Obuah said despite the obvious gangup against the party, Governor Nyesom Wike and the State lawmakers by the enemies of progress, there is no cause for alarm. Obuah therefore wants all members of the party and Rivers people to remain resolute; assuring that Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the party and all the PDP lawmakers would be victorious at the end of the day. Believing strongly that there is light at the end of the tunnel, the PDP Chairman in a press statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Jerry Needam said the party is halfway through what seemingly were challenges orchestrated by enemies of the State because of our resources which they want to continue to loot to develop their own States, leaving Rivers people and the State in a state of underdevelopment and disrepair as witnessed under Mr Rotimi Amaechi administration. “But we can now see light at the end of the tunnel and are therefore not perturbed. We are sure of victory”, he declared. The State party chairman assured that Rivers resources would be used to develop the State, as opposed to Mr Rotimi Amaechi administration, reaffirming the commitment of Governor Nyesom Wike to put smiles back on the faces of Rivers people. The State PDP Chairman recalled that the same judiciary and its judges, magistrates and judiciary workers Amaechi subjected to untold hardship and frustration for over one year are still the same people he has run to, for assistance in his new plot to institutionalize another round of illegality in the State, describing the development as ironical and shameful.

L-R; Chairman and CEO Lubcon Ltd. Engr. Jani Ibrahim; Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and Vice Chancellor, University of Ilorin, Prof. Abdulganiyu Ambali at the Ilorin International Airport, Ilorin.

Bayelsa denies fresh loans

he Bayelsa State Government has denied claims by the All Progressives Congress, APC that it was planning to raise fresh loan, which it said was meant to prosecute the forthcoming governorship election in the state. A statement by the Director of Media and Publicity of the Sylva-Igiri campaign organization, Chief Nathan Egba, had claimed that, the government was about to raise a N12 billion loan for the purpose of the December 5 election which, he said, would throw the state into

further debt. But a statement issued on Tuesday evening by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, said the purported claim of fresh loan was misplaced and a clear mischief on the part of the opposition party in the state. According to him, rather than looking for a new loan, the Bayelsa State Government was only drawing from an existing loan facility that had since been approved for the airport project it said was at 60 per cent level of completion.

He said it was unfortunate that the Sylva campaign was raising the issue of loan, saying the APC candidate and his campaign officials should be ashamed of their past in this regard. While praising Governor Seriake Dickson over prudent management of resources, which it said had made it possible for the State to witness the huge infrastructure and other development projects in the last three and half years, the statement slammed Timipre Sylva for plunging the state into huge debts running into

N432 billion, under his watch as governor. The statement said Sylva’s profligacy as governor ranked Bayelsa State as one of the most indebted states in Nigeria, but now reversed under the Dickson administration, which had since serviced the debt to a manageable level of N90 billion naira and thereby making the state now one of the least indebted states in the country. “Under Sylva, there was routine diversion of funds meant for payment of civil servants’ salaries and benefits. A whopping

N300 billion agric loan from the World Bank had no tangible effect in the state. Where were the projects established or farms set up or the fisheries development as proposed under the loan? “What happened to the N3 billion MDG funds made available to Sylva? It is unfortunate that Sylva left a legacy of a crippling debt profile in Bayelsa State as governor. As a matter of fact, the bond obligation of the state totaled N125 billion under his watch”, Iworiso-Markson said.

Ekwueme, Gbonigi others eulogise Awolowo N igeria’s former Vice President, Dr Alex Ekwueme, religious activist, Bishop Emmanuel Bolanle Gbonigi, the frontline SouthSouth Leader, Chief Dr Edwin Clark, among other very prominent Nigerian Leaders, have extolled the sterling virtues of the Late Sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who stood vehemently for the defense of human rights more importantly the equal rights

to free education at all levels, provisions of affordable shelter, clean potable water and such society and Nation “where no man is oppressed” especially with his elated office, for the pursuit of the much convinced rights for such a very virile society and nation to happily and gainfully live in at all times. In addition, they eulogized his struggle for Nigeria’s independence and

self-rule, which he humbly manifested especially in the defunct Western Region, whereby, he exemplified as “the First in Africa”, right from the then Western Broadcasting Service – Radio Services, Liberty Stadium, 25-Storey Cocoa House, all in Ibadan, the State Capital in his tenure as the first Nigerian Premier. These remarks were made respectively during the condolence visit by the

Leaders and the delegation of the Southern Nigeria People Assembly, SNPA to the Late Chief Awolowo Family at Ikenne, Remo, Ogun State on the demise of the Matriarch, Mama Chief Dr. HID Awolowo. Dr Alex Ekwueme in his tributes at the occasion saluted the extra ordinary, dogged zeal of Late Baba Obafemi Awolowo to keep Nigeria one, more importantly his unrepentant conviction for “that

United Nation that would happily excel, among the responsible comity of Nations” Dr Ekwueme, singularly applaud Chief Awolowo’s resolve to cooperate with the Late Dr Nnamdi Azikwe when it was so necessary for the prompt leadership to steer the nation’s boat to success after independence, through which he subsequently became Nigeria’s first President.

Politics

Wednesday October 28, 2015

Niger PDP sues Bello over LG elections postponement Priscilla Dennis MINNA

iger State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Niger state chapter has sued the State Government for withholding the party from constituting local government Transition Implementation Committee, TIC. It also directed Governor Abubakar Bello to provide all necessary logistics for the Local Gov-

ernment Councils elections now fixed for 16th January, 2016 as against, next month, 7th November, 2015. The party which made its stand known at its party secretariat yesterday in Minna said that the suit is also to direct State INEC to hold the election as presently scheduled. Addressing party stakeholders including all the 25 local government chairmanship candidates and their vice as

well as the 274 councillorship aspirants of the party in the state, the deputy chairman of the PDP, Bar. Tanko Beji said the shift in the elections will give the party the opportunity to vigorously campaign, hence members and supporters should not be discouraged, but take the advantage of it. Also, the state PDP Chairman, Hon. Musa Maali expressed displeasure at the change of date for the councils polls, af-

ter the state INEC has assured that the November 7th was sacrosant. Maali also urged party supporters to work hard for the success of the party in all the 25 local government areas. The Governor in an interview said the postponement was due to lack of logistics on the part of the Commission, assuring that soon all the necessary support will be given to the electoral body in the state.

L-R: Speaker, Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Hon. Kombowe Benson; Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah rtd and Governor Seriake Dickson, during a meeting with paramount rulers of all communities in the state, at Government House, Yenagoa.

Foundation salutes Buhari, Tinubu, Ambode, others on APC achievements

frontline Lagos State Socio- Cultural Organization, Liberty Foundation has eulogised the dogged strides and the sterling qualities of the All Progressive Congress, APC chieftains, more importantly President Muhammadu Buhari, the National Leader, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode The Foundation made the remarks through its founding Chairman, , Akeem Danmola , the president and Chairman Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Dr.Olujobi Ososanya, the state Coordinator, Dr.Taiwo Olayiwola Ameen and the

Chairman Epe Division, Dr Sakiru Olayiwole Onansanya . In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary,the foundation said it is highly proud on the selection and swearing in of the Lagos State Executive Council members as put together by Ambode In addition, the foundation appraise the strong willed efforts and determination of the APC in tackling and arresting the unfortunate level of corruption which hitherto had eating deep into the fabrics of the society and the nation at large, thus providing hope to teaming hopeless poor voting masses.

It said such action by APC, has now confirmed its genuine intention to rekindle the hope of all Nigerians, irrespective of religion, tribe, creed or callings that,” with God on our side , coupled with the unrepentant determination of all , our country, Nigeria and the society, will definitely be such egalitarian environment ‘where no man is oppressed.’ To this end, they charged all, to please cooperate with those in governance as well as to earnestly support positively and give very constructive criticisms and meaningful suggestions to drive the state and the Nation’s hopes and expec-

tations to the very much desired and deserved responsive ultimate, in the Comity of Nations, the world over. The foundation enjoined the already sworn-in Commissioners, Special Advisers and the party’s leaders and Ministerial nominees to please honourably justify such confidence reposed in them to positively actualize the much expected, amplified change as chronicled by the party at all times with their respected, distinguished Leadership to all Nigerians, whose ultimate is, the much desired complete turnaround that had since eluded her over the years.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Falae: Group backs Afenifere over resolution on Fulani Herdsmen Ayo Esan

Lagos –based group under the aegis of Save Lagos Group, SLG has thrown its weight behind the recent resolution of the Yoruba Social –cultural organization, Afenifere on the expulsion of Fulani herdsmen from the western Nigeria over incessant clash with the farmers in the area, thereby endangering the lives of the innocent farmers in the affected areas of the region. The group also cautioned the former Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso and National Assembly Lawmaker representing Kaduna State Central Senatorial District , Senator Sheu Sanni over their comment on the sensitive issue of this nature, just as it urged the Fulani herdsmen to accept the option of registration, in order to nip the frequent clash of Fulani herdsmen with the farmers across the western region of Nigeria in the bud. In a signed Press statement on the controversy generated by the recent Afenifere’s resolution after the abduction of elder Statesman, Chief Olu Falae, by the Convener of the group, Comrade Adeniyi, Alimi Sulaiman , a copy of

which was made available to newsmen in Lagos yesterday, “supported the expulsion of Fulani herdsmen in the Zone, if they would continue to be the thorn in the flesh of our farmers by endangering their lives and destroyed their hard earned farm planting. Comrade Sulaiman who strongly condemned the recent abduction of the former Secretary to the Government of Federation,SGF, Chief Olu Falae at his farm in Akure, Ondo State, noting that no region would fold her arms and allow strangers to bring brigandage to their land by making their lives brutish and shortish, adding that no Fulani man would allow any southern people to be doing like a King In their area. The rights activist then saluted the courage and wisdom of elders in the apex Yoruba organization by taking the bull by the horn in order to save the lives and properties of the people in the affected areas across the region, urging the government at all levels in the country to beef up security around the prone affected, so as to avoid replica of Boko Haram harrowing experience in our region, enjoined the affected farmers in the affected Southern region to be vigilant and be at alert always.

IPAC supports postponement of Niger LGAs elections Priscilla Dennis MINNA.

he Niger State Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC has thrown its weight behind the shift of local government polls from next month, 7th November to 16th January. The council in a communiqué issued in Minna yesterday after an emergency meeting also warned that the new date must not be altered again. Expressing disappointment over the postponement of the local government elections in a Communiqué read by Alhaji Mohammed Alfa, state chairman of Social Democratic Party, SDP the council said it was aware of the inability of INEC to release card reader machines to the state NSIEC because of pending litigations at

election petition tribunals. “We all know that the political parties had hinged their participation in the election on the use of card readers”, the communiqué read in part. The communiqué stated that the council appreciated the enormity of the challenges confronting the Niger state Independent Electoral Commission, NSIEC and accepted the new date of January 16, 2016 in good faith. “The council warned that on no circumstances should the new date for the election be altered again as such will be unacceptable to the parties.” It then enjoined the state governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello to ensure speedy release of outstanding funds to the commission adding that, the leadership of IPAC has decided to send a powerful delegation to the governor over the issue.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Equities slide further by 0.8% Johnson Okanlawon

rading in equities continued on a negative note on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, as more investors offloaded their holdings. Specifically, the All Share Index depreciated 0.86 per cent to close at 29,572.90 points, compared to the decline of 0.61 per cent recorded the preceding day to close at 29,828.95 points.

Market capitalisation shed N88 billion to close at N10.16 trillion, compared to the drop ofN63 billion recorded the preceding day to close at N10.25 trillion. Research analysts at DLM Securities Limited, an investment firm noted that the decline in prices suggests that the nine months results released thus far have been factored into pricing of domestic equities and consequently, the results may not provide

the expected tailwinds to support a rally. May and Baker Plc led the gainers’ table with six kobo or 4.92 per cent to close at N1.28 per share, followed by Mansard Insurance Plc with 12 kobo or 4.74 per cent to close at N2.65 per share. Ikeja Hotel Plc appreciated 14 kobo or 4.07 per cent to close at N3.58 per share, while Wema Bank Plc up four kobo or four per cent to close at N1.04 per share.

On the flip side, Oando Plc shed 0.87 per cent to close a N8.13 per share, while Live Stock Plc dipped 16 kobo or 9.41 per cent to close at N1.54 per share. Guinnes Nigeria Plc lost N7.11 or five per cent to close at N135.09 per share, while Stanbic IBTC Plc was down N1.09 or 4.99 per cent to close at N20.76 per share. A total of 141.3 million shares valued at N1.36 billion were exchanged in 3,218 deals.

Transcorp posts N7.2bn pre-tax profit in nine months

ransnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc, Transcorp, has announced its unaudited nine months financial results, posting a profit before tax of N7.2 billion for the period. The gross earnings for the group stood at N30.43 billion in the review period, compared to N31.40billion recorded in the same period of 2014, while the gross earnings for the company stood at N2.27 billion, compared to N1.12 billion in 2014, representing 102 per cent increase. According to the result presented to the Nigerian Stock Exchange, profit before tax for the company rose to N1.24 billion, compared to loss

before tax of N1.36billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2014. Analysis of the company’s balance sheet for the group showed that total assets for the group up seven per cent to N182.98 billion, from N170.76 billion in the nine months of 2014, while the company’s total assets stable at N54.06 billion, compared to N54.24bn for full year 2014. Commenting on the result, the President of Transcorp, Mr.Emmanuel Nnorom, explained that the company performance over the past nine months reflects the stability that has been injected into the group’s corporate strategy since 2011, particularly in light

of the challenging business environment. According to him, power remains a key part of the business contributing 65 per cent of revenue and the diversification of the business lines provided stability and reflects the payoff of investments in world-class human capital. He said, “We expect significant improvement in the power sector in the coming weeks, as this accounts for a significant part of our turnover.” Also, the Group Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Ibikunle Oriola said, “We have maintained steady top line numbers in our power and hospitality business, as our Agribusiness continues on a

strong growth trajectory. He stressed that the revenue declined slightly by nine per cent for the hotel business as average daily rate grew to offset the impact of slightly declining occupancy rates caused by lower visitors’ traffic in Abuja. “We’re expecting a stronger finish in fourth quarter due to a number of announced events and expected uptick in government activity. “What’s more, the agribusiness contribution to the group has increased by 1220.5 per cent, with revenue growth of 1179 per cent driven by orders received for sale of orange juice concentrate,” he added.

$345bn debt to cut Deposit Rate to -0.3%, says ECB

he $345 billion of euroarea government debt that yields less than minus 0.3 percent shows where investors think the European Central Bank deposit rate will go. As bonds advanced across the euro zone on Tuesday, the case strengthened for the ECB cutting the rate to minus 0.3 percent from minus 0.2 percent. That prediction was made by Deutsche Bank AG and BNP Paribas SA after ECB President Mario Draghi last week said central-bank policy makers had discussed an unspecified reduction, and that in December the officials would reexamine the scope of their quantitative-easing plan -also a yield-crusher. The ECB has ruled out buying bonds with yields below its deposit rate, which officials cut to its current level

September 2014. Yet the prospect of a further reduction has helped push yields on short-dated debt still lower. That’s because a lower deposit rate would increase the number of bonds available for the ECB to buy under QE, and traders seem to be jumping ahead of the central bank. Yields on German twoyear notes dropped below minus 0.3 percent as Draghi spoke on Oct. 22. “We’ve come a long way and now are priced about 50 percent or more for a 10 basispoint cut in December,” said Christoph Rieger, Commerzbank AG’s head of fixed-income strategy in Frankfurt, who says a reduction in the ECB rate for overnight cash is not his base case. “At this level, the market is holding its breath, waiting for more fundamental confirmation.” Germany’s two-year

note yield declined one basis point, or 0.01 percentage point, to minus 0.34 percent at the 5 p.m. London close, after touching a record low of minus 0.348 percent on Oct. 23, the day after Draghi’s comments. That compares to a five-year average of 0.268 percent. The price of the zero percent security due in September 2017 was at 100.64 percent of face value. A negative yield means investors buying the securities now will get back less upon maturity than they paid. There’s about $6.4 trillion of securities in the Bloomberg Eurozone Sovereign Bond Index, of which about 5 percent is yielding minus 0.3 percent or less. The recent slide in yields is not limited to German debt, nor to short duration. Finland’s two-year note yield slipped to minus 0.319 per-

Source: NSE

Inter-Bank Rate Naira Market indicators All-Share Index 29,572.90points Market capitalisation 10.16trn

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

MAYBAKER

1.22

1.28

0.06

4.92

MANSARD

2.53

2.65

0.12

4.74

IKEJAHOTEL

3.44

3.58

0.14

4.07

WEMABANK

1.00

1.04

0.04

4.00

CCNN

7.96

8.25

0.29

3.64

ETERNA

1.71

1.76

0.05

2.92

AIRSERVICE

1.85

1.90

0.05

2.70

BETAGLAS

45.15

46.20

1.05

2.33

DANGSUGAR

6.49

6.56

0.07

1.08

CONTINSURE

0.99

1.00

0.01

1.01

CHANGE

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

OANDO

9.00

8.13

-0.87

-9.67

LIVESTOCK

1.70

1.54

-0.16

-9.41

GUINNESS

142.20

135.09

-7.11

-5.00

STANBIC

21.85

20.76

-1.09

-4.99

UNILEVER

42.85

40.71

-2.14

-4.99

BERGER

10.50

9.98

-0.52

-4.95

FBNH

5.75

5.47

-0.28

-4.87

HONYFLOUR

2.71

2.58

-0.13

-4.80

UBA

3.97

3.78

-0.19

-4.79

NAHCO

4.40

4.20

-0.20

-4.55

FGN Bonds

cent on Tuesday, the lowest since 2001, when Bloomberg began recording it. Germany’s 10-year yield dropped six basis points on Tuesday to 0.44 percent, the lowest level since May 5. Rate (%) Inflation

8.2

MPR

Crude oil price

$58.96

US Dollar

N196.95

Offer

Bid

Description

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.58

100.42

14.77

100.57

14.66

16.00 29-JUN-2019

3.75

103.04

14.89

103.34

14.78

15.54 13-FEB-2020

4.37

101.74

14.97

102.04

14.87

16.39 27-JAN-2022

6.33

105.75

14.94

106.05

14.87

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.46

96.25

14.99

96.55

14.93

10.00 23-JUL-2030

14.81 68.00

15.58

68.30

15.51

Closing Market Prices of September 29, 2015

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

Exchange

Rates (N)

24-Dec-15

10.54

10.81

WAUA

270

31-Mar-16

12.66

13.52

USD

196.96

EURO

214

01-Sep-16

12.55

14.19

CFA

0.32

YEN

1.64

Tenor

Rate (%)

SWISS FRANC

202

O/N

5.7333

14.5852

POUNDS STERLING

293

15.8238

SDR

273

17.0819

NIBOR

The Fixings of September 29, 2015

Capital Market

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Stock exchange daily equities summary Daily Summary as of 27/10/2015

Equities as at October 27, 2015

Printed 27/10/2015 14:32:24.024

Daily Summary as of 27/10/2015 Printed 27/10/2015 14:32:24.024

Daily Summary (Bonds) No Debt Trading Activity

1st Tier Securities

1st Tier Securities Sector

Company name

DailyNo Summary (Equities) 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 21 9 30

Current Price 28.00 30.50

Quantity Traded 506,454 4,410 510,864

Value Traded 14,234,843.67 137,019.68 14,371,863.35

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 18 18

Current Price 1.54

Quantity Traded 635,628 635,628

Value Traded 983,927.60 983,927.60

1,146,492

15,355,790.95

Daily Summary as of 27/10/2015 AGRICULTURE Totals

Printed 27/10/2015 14:32:24.024 CONGLOMERATES Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. JOHN HOLT PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC UA C N PLC.on Board EQTY Activity Summary Diversified Industries Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE CONGLOMERATES Totals Building Construction ARBICO PLC. Building Construction Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Building Structure/Completion/Other COSTAIN (W A) PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals

Symbol AGLEVENT

No. of Deals 1 1 182 24 208

Current Price 1.03 0.96 2.00 29.00

Quantity Traded 2,000 690 19,883,006 54,273 19,939,969

Value Traded 2,000.00 634.80 39,623,588.74 1,543,906.86 41,170,130.40

Symbol ARBICO

208 No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 5.04

19,939,969 Quantity Traded 500 500

41,170,130.40 Value Traded 2,520.00 2,520.00

Symbol COSTAIN

No. of Deals 10 10

Current Price 0.50

Page Quantity Traded 449,388 449,388

12 1 of Value Traded 224,694.00 224,694.00

Daily Summary (Equities) JOHNHOLT TRANSCORP UACN

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

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 39.99

Quantity Traded 22,750 22,750

Value Traded 884,157.50 884,157.50

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

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 7 7

Current Price 8.15

Quantity Traded 196,227 196,227

Value Traded 1,599,769.05 1,599,769.05

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 10.00

Quantity Traded 1,000 1,000

Value Traded 10,000.00 10,000.00

669,865

2,721,140.55

Daily Summary as of 27/10/2015 Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)

Printed 27/10/2015 UPDC14:32:24.024 REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST

Symbol UPDCREIT

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Activity Summary on Board EQTY CHAMPION BREW. PLC. GUINNESS NIG PLC CONSUMER GOODS INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. Beverages--Brewers/Distillers NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals Food Products DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC N NIG.as FLOUR MILLS PLC. Daily Summary of 27/10/2015 Food Products Totals Printed 27/10/2015 14:32:24.024 Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. CONSUMER GOODS Household Durables Totals Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange Personal/Household Products © Totals

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol CHAMPION GUINNESS INTBREW Symbol

No. of Deals 12 12

Current Price 196.00

Quantity Traded 8,662 8,662

Value Traded 1,685,603.00 1,685,603.00

Symbol DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON NNFM

No. of Deals 33 45 65 7 38 3 191

Current Price 2.55 6.56 21.06 2.58 7.31 8.99

Quantity Traded 375,929 1,268,386 608,947 358,196 1,567,555 35,056 4,214,069

Value Traded 961,109.35 8,261,893.44 12,861,154.17 929,172.85 11,530,753.43 300,178.80 34,844,262.04

Symbol CADBURY

No. of Deals 35 74 109

Current Price 20.00 829.94

Quantity Traded 119,143 114,583 233,726

Value Traded 2,500,513.70 94,990,151.65 97,490,665.35

No. of Deals 1 1 No. of Deals 19 13 32

Current Price 5.33

Quantity Traded 1,000 1,000 Quantity Traded 85,740 378,240 Page 463,980

Value Traded 5,070.00 5,070.00 Value Traded 2,145,737.05 15,405,119.90 12 317,550,856.95 of

Symbol VITAFOAM Symbol PZ UNILEVER

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services FINANCIAL SERVICES AIICO INSURANCE PLC. Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC AXAMANSARD INSURANCE PLC N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services ASO SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC Mortgage Brokers and Services Totals Daily Summary as ofCarriers, 27/10/2015 Printed 27/10/2015 14:32:24.024 Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UBA CAPITAL PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY Other Financial Institutions Totals HEALTHCARE FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals Pharmaceuticals EVANS MEDICAL PLC. FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. Pharmaceuticals Totals

593

Processing Systems E-TRANZACT INTERNATIONAL PLC Processing Systems Totals

Current Price 0.85 Current Price 1.00 2.65 0.69 0.50

Quantity Traded 578,856 Quantity Traded 13,519,000 527,000 122,649 Page 187,545 14,935,050

Value Traded 500,721.72 Value Traded 13,519,240.00 1,301,446.50 84,805.82 12 4 of 93,772.50 15,499,986.54

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.05

Quantity Traded 200,000 200,000

Value Traded 210,000.00 210,000.00

Symbol ASOSAVINGS

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 76,672 76,672

Value Traded 38,336.00 38,336.00

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FCMB Daily Summary STANBIC UBCAP

No. of Deals 36 7 52 (Equities) 9 62 166

Current Price 2.66 4.20 2.10 20.76 1.30

Quantity Traded 588,670 48,521 1,183,561 641,317 2,861,085 5,323,154

Value Traded 1,570,238.40 200,830.11 2,440,541.99 13,313,740.92 3,773,283.41 21,298,634.83

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

1,342 No. of Deals 10 1 8 9 28

Current Price 0.56 3.00 38.20 1.28

Symbol TRIPPLEG

Symbol ETRANZACT

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.69

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 2.84

Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER CAP CCNN

No. of Deals 20 9 6 23

Current Price 22.10 9.98 38.00 8.25

84,477,301 Quantity Traded 761,140 20,000 483,890 Page 187,775 1,452,805

19,197,840.02

Quantity Traded 3,000 3,000

Value Traded 4,830.00 4,830.00

Quantity Traded 101,000 101,000

Value Traded 286,980.00 286,980.00

104,000

291,810.00

Quantity Traded 454,079 209,142 13,358 677,152

Value Traded 10,045,169.76 2,087,266.36 507,766.00 5,437,485.40

Page

Value Traded 72,275.00 72,275.00

Packaging/Containers BETA GLASS CO PLC. GREIF NIGERIA PLC Packaging/Containers Totals

Symbol BETAGLAS VANLEER

No. of Deals 19 1 20

Current Price 46.20 9.37

Quantity Traded 200,477 100 200,577

Value Traded 9,192,447.30 892.00 9,193,339.30

1,866,363

52,709,332.11

Current Price 8.13

Quantity Traded 309,250 309,250

Value Traded 2,515,042.50 2,515,042.50

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Daily Summary (Equities)

Quantity Traded 68,825 73,240 123,046 367

Value Traded 1,792,203.00 128,023.20 35,399,187.29 53,692.10

Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. OIL AND GAS Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors TOTAL NIGERIA Published by The Nigerian StockPLC. Exchange © Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals

Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STARand EXPRESS PLC Exploration Production TRANS-NATIONWIDE PLC. COMPANY LTD SEPLAT PETROLEUM EXPRESS DEVELOPMENT Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals Exploration and Production Totals Solutions OILEmployment AND GAS Totals C & I LEASING PLC. SERVICES Apparel Retailers Published by The Nigerian (NIG) Stock PLC. Exchange © LENNARDS

C & I LEASING PLC. SERVICES Daily Summary as of 27/10/2015 Employment Solutions Printed 27/10/2015 14:32:24.024 Employment Solutions Totals © Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange Hotels/Lodging IKEJA HOTEL PLC Hotels/Lodging Totals Printing/Publishing

Printing/Publishing Totals SERVICES Daily Summary as of 27/10/2015 Transport-Related Printed 27/10/2015 14:32:24.024Services Transport-Related Services AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals Support and Logistics CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY Support and Logistics Totals SERVICES SERVICES Totals Transport-Related

Services AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC

EQTYNIGERIAN Board Totals AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals Support and Logistics Activity Summary on Board SUPPORT PREMIUMGRP PLC CAVERTON OFFSHORE Support and Logistics Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Banking SERVICES Totals ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals

122

Symbol OANDO

No. of Deals 33 33

CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL

8 6 55 2

27.41 1.76 290.00 154.00

Symbol TOTAL

No. of Deals 11 82

Current Price 150.01

Quantity Traded 15,392 Page 280,870

7 2,324,106.68 of 12 39,697,212.27

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 10 10

Current Price 235.00

Quantity Traded 7,465 7,465

Value Traded 1,817,136.88 1,817,136.88

597,585

44,029,391.65

Quantity Traded 500 500

Value Traded 1,500.00 1,500.00

Quantity Traded 58,816 Quantity Traded 58,816 15,392

Value Traded 29,996.16 Value Traded 29,996.16 2,324,106.68

125

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol No. of Deals Current Price LENNARDS

1 1

Symbol

No. of Deals 4 No. of Deals 4 11

RTBRISCOE Symbol TOTAL

Other Financial Institutions FBN HOLDINGS PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals

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

Current Price 0.53 Current Price 150.01

82 No. of Deals 4 No. of Deals 3 10 7 10

Current Price 4.25 Current Price 1.22 235.00

280,870 Quantity Traded 70,000 Quantity Traded 9,051 7,465 79,051 7,465

39,697,212.27 Value Traded 308,480.00 Value Traded 10,861.16 1,817,136.88 319,341.16 1,817,136.88

Symbol CILEASING

No. of Deals 125 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity597,585 Traded 14,443

Value Traded 44,029,391.65 7,221.50

Symbol LENNARDS

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 3.15

Quantity Traded Page 500

Value Traded 12 8 of 1,500.00 1,500.00

No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 0.53

Quantity Traded 58,816 58,816

Value Traded 29,996.16 29,996.16

No. of Deals 4 3 (Equities) 7

Current Price 4.25 1.22

Quantity Traded 70,000 9,051 79,051

Value Traded 308,480.00 10,861.16 319,341.16

Symbol CILEASING

No. of Deals 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 14,443

Value Traded 7,221.50

Symbol

No. of Deals 2

Current Price

Quantity Traded 14,443 Page

No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 3.58

Quantity Traded 115,900 115,900

Value Traded 409,905.00 409,905.00

Symbol LEARNAFRCA

No. of Deals 9 9

Current Price 0.74

Quantity Traded 2,019,799 2,019,799

Value Traded 1,502,516.26 1,502,516.26

Symbol Symbol AIRSERVICE NAHCO

No. No. of of Deals Deals 5 18 23

Current Current Price Price 1.90 4.20

Quantity Quantity Traded Traded 59,200 359,414 418,614

Value Value Traded Traded 111,762.50 1,512,543.29 1,624,305.79

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 3.05

Quantity Traded 202,000 202,000

Value Traded 586,400.00 586,400.00

55 No. of Deals Current Price 5 1.90 2,549 18 4.20 23 (Equities)

2,909,123 Quantity Traded 59,200 120,634,190 359,414 418,614

Symbol RTBRISCOE

Symbol REDSTAREX TRANSEXPR Daily Summary

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL

500

Daily Summary (Equities)

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol CAVERTON

Symbol AIRSERVICE NAHCO

Daily Summary

Value Traded 7,221.50 of 12

4,481,185.87 Value Traded 111,762.50

977,782,341.58 1,512,543.29 1,624,305.79

Symbol CAVERTON

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 3.05

Quantity Traded 202,000 202,000 Page

Symbol ZENITHBANK

No. of Deals 55 263 263

Current Price 17.60

Quantity Traded 2,909,123 9,889,026 9,889,026

120,634,190

977,782,341.58

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Daily Summary (Equities)

Quantity Traded 9,782,847 9,782,847

Value Traded 53,803,904.52 53,803,904.52

2,549

FBNH

316 316

5.47

No. of Deals 263 263

Current Price 17.60

Quantity TradedPage 9,889,026 9,889,026

No. of Deals 316 316

Current Price 5.47

Quantity Traded 9,782,847 9,782,847

Activity Summary on Board PREMIUM

ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals

3.15

Value Traded

Symbol REDSTAREX Symbol TRANSEXPR SEPLAT

EQTY Board Totals

Daily Summary as of 27/10/2015 FINANCIAL14:32:24.024 SERVICES Printed 27/10/2015 Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Banking

444,349,977.32 Value Traded 436,532.20 62,200.00 18,460,872.75 12 5 of 238,235.07 19,197,840.02

1,452,805

Quantity Traded 45,000 45,000

Activity Summary onPLC Board EQTY LEARN AFRICA

No. of Deals 16 No. of Deals 24 11 9 8 68

Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER

Current Price 1.68

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Employment Solutions

Value Traded 108,935,934.45 33,089,105.15 8,038,691.65 4,388,995.42 193,671,942.62 2,287,562.60 3,921,870.54 24,216,150.36 23,792,376.05 174,460.00 4,785,931.11 407,303,019.95

Symbol NPFMCRFBK

No. of Deals 3 3

Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals

Quantity Traded 21,970,182 11,755,347 444,587 3,050,413 8,193,935 1,125,223 1,917,065 6,372,892 4,143,989 122,000 4,846,792 63,942,425

Symbol AIICO Symbol CONTINSURE MANSARD NEM WAPIC

Symbol CUTIX

Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Daily Summary of 27/10/2015 R Tas BRISCOE PLC. Printed 27/10/2015 14:32:24.024 Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals

Current Price 4.92 2.80 18.08 1.42 23.50 2.01 2.05 3.78 5.67 1.50 1.04

Symbol No. of Deals ACCESS 173 DIAMONDBNK 65 ETI 49 FIDELITYBK 52 GUARANTY 274 SKYEBANK 40 STERLNBANK 143 UBA 186 UBN 66 UNITYBNK 8 Daily Summary (Equities) WEMABANK 50 1,106

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

Apparel Retailers Totals

353,475,742.71

ICT Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC

183,303,368.87 2 of 12 201,899,285.37

7,470,687

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

Current Price 25.00 40.71

Value Traded 24,710.00 25,341,320.29 43,443,717.81

Part Retailers OILAutomobile/Auto AND GAS R T BRISCOE PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Automobile/Auto Retailers Totals TOTAL NIGERIAPart PLC.

Symbol 7UP

NESTLE Daily Summary (Equities)

Quantity Traded 7,000 260,055 1,620,786

SERVICES Apparel Retailers LENNARDS (NIG) PLC. Apparel Retailers Activity Summary onTotals Board EQTY

135.05

Value of Shares(N)

Current Price 3.37 98.00

OIL AND GAS Totals

Value Traded 4,095,186.00 12,493,179.30 2,007,551.20 Value Traded

Quantity Traded

No. of Deals 1 40 99

Exploration and Production SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Daily Summary as of 27/10/2015 Exploration and Production Totals Printed 27/10/2015 14:32:24.024

157 248

1,357,169 Page 2,549,250

Quotation(N)

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals

Current Price 4.36 135.09 16.51 Current Price

Quantity Traded 978,300 92,471 121,310 Quantity Traded

No Of Deals Symbol PORTPAINT WAPCO

OIL ANDas GAS Daily Summary of 27/10/2015 Printed 27/10/2015 14:32:24.024 Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals

No. of Deals 43 40 8 No. of Deals

CONSUMER GOODS Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. Daily Summary as of 27/10/2015 SKYE14:32:24.024 BANK PLC Printed 27/10/2015 STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. Banking Totals

Sector Activity Summary Company nameEQTY on Board INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Daily Summary (Equities)

Symbol ZENITHBANK

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol FBNH

579

Symbol DANGCEM

No. of Deals 90 90

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals

19,671,873 Page Current Price 163.50

PREMIUM Board Totals

Value Traded 4,481,185.87 174,425,221.76 174,425,221.76

10 of 12 Value Traded 174,425,221.76 174,425,221.76 Value Traded 53,803,904.52 53,803,904.52 228,229,126.28 12 10 of

Quantity Traded 964,280 964,280

Value Traded 155,967,434.47 155,967,434.47

964,280

155,967,434.47

Equity Activity Totals

Value Traded 586,400.00 586,400.00 9 of 12

669

20,636,153

384,196,560.75

3,218

141,270,343

1,361,978,902.33

Daily Summary (ETP) Exchange Traded Fund Name LOTUS HALAL EQUITY ETF NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) Daily Summary as of 27/10/2015 VETIVA 14:32:24.024 BANKING ETF Printed 27/10/2015 VETIVA CONSUMER GOODS ETF VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF VETIVA INDUSTRIAL ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals

ETF Board Totals

Symbol LOTUSHAL15 NEWGOLD VETBANK VETGOODS VETGRIF30 VETINDETF

Daily Summary (ETP)

No. of Deals 6 1 4 1 1 1 14

Quantity Traded 11,662 50 14,110 10 10 10 25,852

25,852

ETP Activity Totals

Current Price 9.53 2,237.00 3.11 7.52 13.53 21.26

Page

Value Traded 107,306.70 111,850.00 45,144.10 75.20 135.30 212.60 264,723.90

264,723.90 of

264,723.90

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Community Mirror state does not owe salaries, does not owe pensions. Let me again repeatOur what I have been saying that Goodluck Jonathan hasBut no thepersonal recent downturn in the economy has slowed us down in the agenda in convening this national conference. execution of some of our life-changing projects.

PRESIDENT GOODLUCK –GOVERNOR OF BAYELSA STATE, SERIAKEJONATHAN DICKSON

Oshiomhole commissions ultra-modern Uromi Market Sebastine Ebhuomhan BENIN CITY

overnor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has commissioned the new ultramodern 160-shop market in Uromi built by Esan North East Local Government Area. The governor stated that it was a thing of joy that at a time some council chairmen were giving excuses on why they could not pay salaries, Esan North East Local Government administration was able to pay salaries and execute projects with direct impact on the lives of the people. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Oshiomhole said, “I feel we should all salute the chairman for a very competent, honest and resourceful leadership. As they say, sometimes, good things don’t make the headlines, bad things do. “Across the country, North and South, East and West, many local governments, many state governments are not able even to pay salaries of their work-

ers and here today, we are commissioning an ultramodern market built from the resources of a local government by the visionary leadership of the local government chairman. “I want your applauds for the Chairman to be loud enough so that the people in Oredo in Benin can hear the sound of what is happening here in Uromi that while some of Sam’s colleagues are busy explaining why they cannot perform, Sam is here celebrating the outcome of his resourcefulness. “There is no government anywhere in the world that has all the money it needs to do all the things it desires. There is poverty everywhere, but the real dangerous poverty is the poverty of the brain. When you are afflicted with the poverty of the brain, you cannot think, you are not resourceful, you are not imaginative, you are not creative; you will be there lamenting why you are not moving. “We will build more schools. Over the next 12 months of my tenure, we

Baptist Academy marks 160th anniversary

agos Baptist Academy, one of Nigeria’s earliest schools, marks its 160th anniversary this week. A four-day celebration begins Tuesday morning (October 27) with cultural activities in the school’s premises. A thanksgiving service holds Wednesday morning at Shepherd Hill Baptist Church, Obanikoro. Turning of the sod for the school’s library project by chairman of its alumni board of trustees, Sir Kessington Adebutu, follows in the afternoon while an old student, Kemi Pinerho, SAN, will also hold a motivational talk with the

students. On Thursday, at 2pm, Professor Idowu Sobowale, an old student, one-time adviser and commissioner for education in Lagos State, will give the 160th Anniversary Lecture on “Challenges facing Secondary Education Today: The role of Legacy Schools”. Two novelty matches between Baptist Academy Old Students Association and the Old Grammarian Society and another between BAOSA and current Baptist Academy students will hold in the evening of Friday, October 30.

will build more red roofs in this Uromi community, we will deliver more modern furniture to ensure the comfort of our children so as to attract them to go to school and to stay in school, to learn and be impacted with knowledge so that we can produce

future leaders who will be more creative than our current leadership”, he affirmed. Earlier, the Chairman of Esan North East Local Government Area, Hon. Sam AbhulimenOboh, said he was challenged to perform by the many

landmark projects of the state government. “I have seen the landmark projects being executed by the State Government and these monumental projects which adorn the nooks and crannies of the state challenged this Local Gov-

Blocked drainage at Idugaran area of Lagos Island, yesterday.

ernment Area to replicate (them) in our own way. “Sir, if you will recall, during my electioneering campaigns, I did promise to reconstruct the Uromi Main Market. Today, I am glad to inform you that, that solemn promise has been realized.

PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

Oba-elect distances self from land grabber’s activities Dare Akogun

ba-elect of Akinlowo Olaife Royal family in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State, Babatunde Ismaila Ahmed, has distanced himself from activities of one Alhaji Abdul-Rauf Tijani, who he alleged was a notorious land grabber whose activities in Shasha area should be condemned by well-meaning Nigerians resident in the area. The Oba-elect made this known when he addressed members of the press in his palace in Lagos recently. In a two-page petition addressed to the Honorable Attorney General/ Commissioner for Justice

for Lagos State, which he read to pressmen, he noted that he was constrained to make the following clarifications over the actions of hoodlums as well as that of Alhaji Abdul Tijani in recent times. He averred that the suit instituted at the Federal High Court in Lagos some months ago relates to the fundamental enforcement proceedings, for the protection of the fundamental rights of himself and that of the 2nd, 3rd and 5th applicants over the harassment and intimidation by the 1st and 6th respondents, the InspectorGeneral of Police and the Commissioner of Police (SFU) at the behest of the 10th and 11th respondents, Oba Babatunde Akanbi

Lawal and Tajudeen Usman Akano, respectively. He also averred that the said suit, is a fallout of the tussle over the kingship of Shasha community, in the Alimosho Local Government Area, Lagos State and not claims of ownership of any sort, as being paraded by the 7th applicants Alhaji Abdul Rauf Tijani and his agents and so he detest the actions of the 7th applicant herein, in his bid to wrestle possession from occupants of Millennium estate Afonka, Shasha without lawful justifications or colour of title whatsoever. He revealed that soon after the 7th applicant invaded the estate aforesaid as well as other properties belonging to his ancestral family, Akinlowo

Olaife family from time immemorial, a section of the family took steps to forestall the illegal claims aforesaid noting that the matter is still pending in court in suit No (ID/1632LMW/2015) against the 7th applicant in that regard. The Oba-elect noted that the actions and inaction of Alhaji Tijani by stationing hoodlums and miscreants who have caused residents of millennium estate Afonka both bodily harm and loss of properties as unfortunate and regrettable stressing that Tijani has no business medley in a property that belonged to the Akinlowo Olaife Royal Family of Shasha as he is not related in any manner with the royal family.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

World News

Government has shelved the move to increase school fees and let all students return to academic work accordingly. –SOUTH AFRICAN PRESIDENT, JACOB ZUMA

Afolabi Gambari

WITH AGENCY REPORT

even Tanzanian government ministers have lost their parliamentary seats to the opposition Ukawa coalition, partial results from Sunday’s vote show. It is the biggest shock of the election so far which is the most competitive in the country’s history. The BBC’s Muliro Telewa in the main city Dar es Salaam says the news will worry the governing CCM party that has been in power for 54 years. The electoral commission has until Thursday to announce the final results. Observers from the European Union have given a positive assessment of the polls. But they raised several concerns - including the apparent failure of state media to give fair and equitable coverage to the opposition in the build-up to the election. The opposition Ukawa coalition on the semi-autonomous archipelago of Zanzibar has expressed concerns about the results announced so far. Residents on the islands also voted for their own president and members of the Zanzibar parliament on Sunday. CUF, one of four parties which make up Ukawa, has accused the Zanzibar electoral commission

Tanzania election: Government ministers suffer shock defeat

Third-term bid: Nguesso wins by landslide More than 92 per cent of voters in Congo-Brazzaville’s controversial referendum have approved constitutional changes to allow President Denis Sassou Nguesso to run for a third term, according to results released yesterday. Under the current constitution, the president has been unable to seek re-election because he is over the age of 70 and has already served two terms. The opposition say turnout was low and the vote should be annulled. However, official results put the turnout at 72 per cent. More than 1.2 million people voted in favour of the change, representing 92.3 per cent of voters, while nearly 102, 000 rejected it, the electoral commission said. The opposition called for a boycott of the poll and one of its leaders described the official results as a fraud.

Helicopter crash claims 12 in Tripoli A Tanzanian woman casting her vote on Sunday

of only releasing results from constituencies where the CMM candidate has won. On Monday, Ukawa candidate Seif Sharif Hamad declared himself the winner of the Zanzibari presidential poll.

Reports said tension rose on the islands ahead of the final results, expected late yesterday. Previous elections have turned violent on Zanzibar, which is made up of the islands of Unguja and Pemba and is a

Malema leads thousands in protest outh Africa’s opposition figure and chief of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, yesterday led more than 5, 000 people as they marched in Johannesburg demanding economic freedom. “It’s all systems go and we are protesting against the collusion of prices, the exploitation of the people and white monopoly rule,” he said. “The Reserve Bank is supposed to be the regulator and yet it contravened to collude prices and exploit people, taking their houses away with no due process to inquire why these people cannot afford to pay. “The Johannesburg Stock Exchange has all white-owned companies and the majority is excluded from that economy

AFRICAN BULLETIN

with no release of shares,” Malema said. Protesters marched from Mary Fitzgerald Square and

Julius Malema

proceed to the SA Reserve Bank, Chamber of Mines and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange in Sandton.

popular with tourists. President Jakaya Kikwete, who is standing down after two terms, called for peace before the election, saying “anyone who tries to cause trouble will be dealt with”.

Malema, who specially addressed miners at the rally, said: “You must stop retrenchments and labour brokers. If you don’t stop retrenchments we will take those mines and run them. Stop listening to the ANC government.” He also complained about sick mine workers not being compensated, and added that mining companies should help fund free education. “You have been stealing from us for far too long,” he said, referring to mining companies. “We said we will not listen to you after one of your mines killed our people in Marikana,” he added. A chamber official whose name was not immediately known accepted the memorandum and signed it.

At least twelve people have died in a helicopter crash west of the Libyan capital Tripoli, security sources say. A militia spokesman said yesterday that the helicopter was shot down in the Al-Maya coastal region, which has seen clashes between rival militias. The helicopter had been carrying cash for a local bank on the way out and was returning with passengers to Tripoli. Local media say the dead may include high-ranking militia members. Bank workers were also reportedly on board. The civilian bank staff were from the town of Surman, the militia spokesman said. Libya has been hit by instability since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

Ethiopia gets first African metro In Addis Ababa, a city of over 4 million people, the more traditional way of getting around has been in mini vans -- a cross between a bus and a taxi, that picks people up and drops them wherever they want to go. But now, a newly opened urban metro service is set to transform the way people in Ethiopia’s capital get to work. The $475 million Light Rail Project is a joint venture between Ethiopia and China and the first of its kind for the city and subSaharan Africa.. “There has been a lot of positive economic development in the last 20 years,” CEO of Ethiopian Railways Corporation, Dr. Getachew Betru, said yesterday.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

WORLD BULLETIN

Drugs: Lebanon nabs Saudi prince A member of Saudi Arabia’s royal family was detained at the Beirut, Lebanon, airport over an alleged attempt to smuggle drugs out of the country on a private plane, a security source said yesterday. The prince was among five Saudi nationals arrested Monday after being accused of trying to transport 2 tons of Captagon amphetamine pills onto a plane bound for Saudi Arabia, according to the official Lebanese National News Agency. It was the largest drug bust ever conducted at the BeirutRafik Hariri International Airport. The U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime said that amphetamines were the most prevalent type of drug used in Saudi Arabia and that reports of amphetamine seizures in the Middle East “refer predominantly to tablets bearing the Captagon logo.”

Officer-pupil clash investigated A US sheriff’s department says it is investigating after a video emerged showing an officer throwing a female pupil across a classroom. The footage posted online on Monday was said to be filmed in a school in Columbia, South Carolina. US media said the pupil had refused to leave the classroom when asked. The officer, a school monitor, was called. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) said there was “no justification” for the incident. The officer is white and the female student, who was unharmed, is black, the sheriff’s office said. The incident comes at a time of increased scrutiny of police and their use of force against African Americans. “It’s very disturbing what happened today,” Richard County Sheriff, Leon Lott, who has requested a federal investigation on the incident, said.

EU Parliament votes against net neutrality The European Parliament has voted against a set of rules intended to safeguard “net neutrality” in the EU. A series of amendments to a regulation on how internet traffic is managed in Europe were all rejected by MEPs. Proponents of net neutrality, who demand that web traffic be treated equally by networks, have already criticised the move. The existing legislation, which was accepted, will be developed into regulations. Campaigners have said that provisions for protecting net neutrality in the existing text of the rules are too vague and many worry that it will be easy for internet firms to strike deals with content providers which may not be advantageous for everyone. Although some campaigners had suggested there might be growing support for the amendments within the parliament, all were voted down in large majorities.

World News 49

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

hinese officials have condemned a US ship’s passage near disputed islands in the South China Sea as illegal. The guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen breached the 12-nautical mile zone China claims around Subi and Mischief reefs in the Spratly archipelago. The freedom of navigation operation is a serious challenge to China’s claims over the artificial islands. Its foreign ministry said the ship had been warned and characterised the act as a “threat to China’s sovereignty”. Spokesman Lu Kang added that Beijing would resolutely respond to any country’s deliberately provocative actions and that the ship had been tracked and warned while on the mission to deliberately enter the disputed waters. Meanwhile, US Defence Department spokesman, Commander Bill Urban, has said that the United States is conducting routine operations in the South China Sea in accordance with international law. The move was welcomed by several countries in the East Asia region, including the Philippines and Japan. China claims most of the South and East China seas. Other countries in SouthEast Asia have competing claims for the Spratly Islands, Paracel Islands and

US warship’s Spratly islands passage illegal –China

The controversial US warship yesterday

Scarborough Shoal, which are thought to have resourcerich waters around them. The reefs, which were submerged, were turned into islands by China by a massive dredging project which began in late 2013. China says this work is legal and in a meeting with US President Barack Obama last month in Washington, President Xi Jinping said China had no intention to militarise the islands. But Washington believes

Beijing is constructing military facilities, designed to reinforce its disputed claim to most of the region, a major shipping zone. The US Freedom of Navigation programme challenges what it deems to be “excessive claims” to the world’s oceans and airspace. International maritime law allows countries to claim ownership of the 12-nautical mile area surrounding natural islands, but does not allow nations to claim owner-

ship of submerged features that have been raised by human intervention. US Defence Secretary, Ash Carter, had previously signaled plans for the sail-by, saying the US would fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows. A senior US defence official said the warship began its mission early yesterday at local time near the reefs and would spend several hours there.

ISIS kills foes at ancient Palmyra

embers of the ISIS group tied three people to the pillars in the ancient section of Palmyra and killed them by detonating the pillars, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported yesterday. The group said it learned of the killings from local sources in the city, which had been under ISIS control since May. Not much else is known about the executions, including the names of the men or what they were accused of. But ISIS has killed for the slightest of offenses and used brutal ways to do so. In another recent execution, ISIS ran over a member of the Syrian military with a tank “because he ran over dead bodies of the Islamic State soldiers by tank.” Some sentenced to death have been forced to dig their graves with their own hands before be-

ing put to death. ISIS, also known as the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, has taken over large swaths of both nations in an effort to cre-

ate a caliphate. Where the group holds sway, it has imposed harsh Islamic Sharia law. In August, they leveled two temples of immense cultural

File copy of ISIS members torturing a victim

significance, the Temple of Bel and the Temple of Baalshamin, prompting outrage and condemnation from around the world. The Arch of Triumph, consisting of one large arch flanked by two smaller ones, opened onto Palmyra’s elegant Colonnade. The top of the arch was decorated with “beautiful geometrical and plant ornaments,” the Syrian antiquities directorate said. The militants, however, are unapologetic over their stepby-step trashing of one of the world’s most important ancient sites, publishing photos of some of the destruction. Palmyra, northeast of Damascus, is known as the “bride of the desert” for its magnificent collection of structures along a historical trade route that once linked Persia, India and China with the Roman Empire.

National NationalMirror Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net www.nationalmirroronline.net

Man admits giving wife money for abortion

herbal practitioner, Morufu Ajah, on Tuesday admitted in an Igando Customary Court, Lagos, that he gave his wife Deborah money to terminate her pregnancy. Ajah, 33, told the court that he gave his wife money to terminate the pregnancy because he was not sure if the pregnancy belonged to him. “I gave my wife money to abort her pregnancy because she used to leave home without my consent to unknown destination and come back after 21 days or 30 days “She may even tell me she was going to her parent’s place, after some days, I will call her parent, they will tell me they did not see her. “So, when she came back home and told me that she was pregnant, I doubted it. I gave her N7, 000 to terminate it. “She collected the money, lied to me that she had done it but never did it,’’ Ajah said. The petitioner also said that his wife turned his mother into a `punching bag’ that most times, she beat and tore her clothes. He described his wife as a violent and aggressive woman that she used to

Community Mirror

Friday, October 9, 2015 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

hit him first any time they had misunderstanding and that always prompted him to beat her up. Morufu alleged that his wife was fetish that on three occasions, he came back from work and saw salt sprinkled all over the house. He urged the court to dissolve their three years old marriage because he was no longer in love and his mother’s life was in danger. Deborah, 30, teacher, denied all the allegations, and insisted that the fight in the home was because she refused to terminate the pregnancy.

Public service, a repository of knowledge for governance –Ambode Francis Suberu

agos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has described the state’s public service as a repository of knowledge, adding that civil service serves as the state’s barometer for social and physical development. Governor Ambode said this yesterday at the pullout ceremony in honour of Mrs. Folashade Jaji,

the immediate past Lagos State Head of Service (HoS), who retired from service yesterday. Ambode, who was represented by Deputy Governor Idiat Oluranti Adebule, at the ceremony, praised Mrs Jaji on her laudable achievements during the eight months period she was given opportunity to serve as the state’s Head of Service. He said whoever is appointed to the office should consider it a mark of hon-

our, as there are many other eminently quality civil servants who can occupy the office. Ambode said of Jaji: “During her short stint as Head of Service, the Lagos State Public Service has undergone a lot of transformation, especially in the assessment process of public servants for promotion to greater responsibilities.” Mrs Jaji, who was full of gratitude to God and members of the Lagos

Police nab fake doctor in Benin

62-year-old woman, Celina Etomi, who allegedly posed as a medical doctor, has been arrested and detained in Benin, Edo State. Etomi was alleged to have defrauded four barren women to the sum of N7, 831,000 million, with a promise to make them get pregnant with twin children and more through InVitro Fertilization (IVF). The suspect, who was nabbed at her hideout in

PUBLIC NOTICE CHRIST AMBASSADORS PRAYER AND EVANGELISTIC MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL This is to inform the general public that the above named Ministry has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 5. Evang. Toedat Tidy-Dabat 6. Pastor Daniel Y. Diyelong 7. Pastor Nienmoup Dabat 8. Pastor Shittima C. Musa 9. Sister Naandat Dagogot AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 4. To pray, to Evangelize, to Preach and propagate the Gospel of the Lord Jesus 5. To devout our self to Speaking to God by adoration, asking for the forgiveness of sin 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 twenty-eight (28) days of this publication.

SIGNED: Evang. Toedat Tidy-Dabat

PUBLIC NOTICE KERIN COMMUNITY LIBRARY AND BOOK CLUB

This is to inform the general public that the above named Organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Istifanus Gbonkyu Bulus 2. Beckley Femi Moses 3. Kenneth Hosea 4. Deme Nathaniel Ishaku AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. Kerin community library is a community driven initiative established to create and develop reading culture and learning among the community members and the general public. 2. Providing the community with effective needed space and educational literature 3. To create room for dialogue between the host communities, state institutions of learning and the government Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within twenty-eight (28) days of this publication. SIGNED: Istifanus Gbonkyu Bulus

3 50

Saint Saviour Street, Benin, allegedly claimed to work for a British-owned hospital based in Ondo State. The bubble burst after she collected N900,000 from a family to treat their blind daughter, who was also suffering from maligCHANGE OF NAME ONWUKIKE : Formerly known as MISS ONWUKIKE JENNIFER NNEDIMMA, now wish to be known and address as MRS. JAMES JENNIFER NNEDIMMA. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OKONKWO: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKONKWO OLIVE OLUCHUKWU now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OKOLI OLIVE OLUCHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. NYSC, and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME MADUEKWE: I, formerly known as MISS MADUEKWE CYNTHIA NNENNA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. EKWUEM CYNTHIA NNENNA. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME AMAKUBA:I, formerly known and addressed as AMAKUBA ONYEKA GEORGE, now wish to be known and addressed as EBUKA GEORGE EZOLU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OGUANYA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OGUANYA EUNICE CHINWE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OKOLO EUNICE CHINWE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OGUJI: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OGUJI CHIAMAKA BLESSING, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS EZIKE CHIAMAKA BLESSING. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME NWAFOR: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NWAFOR OZIOMA GOSPEL, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NWABUEZE OZIOMA GOSPEL. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

nant brain tumor. Her treatment allegedly included administering drugs and injections on her victims, which gave them protruding stomach as if they were pregnant. The victims reported the incident after they discovered that they were CHANGE OF NAME DUNIYA: Formerly known and addressed as MISS CECILIA DUNIYA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS CECILIA ELIAS AUDU. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note. CHANGE OF NAME EMEKA: I, formerly known as KENNETH EMEKA, now wish to be known and addressed as KENNETH EMEKA CHINZE. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note. CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to confirm that ONWU VICTORIA and ONWU VICTORIA CLARA refer to one person now wish to be known and addressed as ONWU VICTORIA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as MISS ROFIAT TEMITOPE ADETONA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ROFIAT TEMITOPE ADETONA-QUADRI. All former documents remain valid. Crescent University and General Public to take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as miss Abebefe Omoshalewa Abiodun now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Adedeji Omoshalewa Abiodun all former documents remain valid and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as ANUMATA MEC. BEDE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as ANUMATA CURIS BEDE SOPURUCHI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME ONYIA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ONYIA CHIOMA JOY, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. MBAEKWE CHIOMA JOY. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

not responding to treatment and medical reports proved otherwise. Edo Police spokesman, DSP Stephen Onwochei, who confirmed the arrest, said the suspect would soon be charged to court after investigation has been completed. CHANGE OF NAME NDUBUEZE: Formerly known and addressed as MISS ADAOHA BELINDA NDUBUEZE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ADAOHA BELINDA UZOMA. All documents, records and certificates bearing my former names remain valid. General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as INNOCENT PETER AJAROH, now wish to be known and addressed as INNOCENT LUCKY EMEDO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note. CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that CHARLES MICHAEL CHINWEIKE and MUOKEE MICHAEL CHINWEIKE CHARLES refer to one person now wish to be known and addressed as MUOKEE MICHAEL CHINWEIKE CHARLES. All former documents remain valid. GTB Bank and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly Ifeanyi Chibuike Ugwu now wish to be known and addressed as Daniel Ifeanyichukwu Fabian. All former documents remain valid Diamond Bank, Access bank and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly miss Olanrewaju Temitope Comfort now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Olaide Olanrewaju Temitope all former documents remain valid ministry of community Development and cooperatives OkeMosan, Abeokuta and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as miss Ogunkoya Abolanle Afolabi now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Joseph Abolanle Afolabi. All former documents remain valid and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS AYOZIE MARY OBIAGERI, wish to be known and addressed as MRS. IKEH MARY OBIAGERI. Diamond Bank, Federal Polytechnic, Nekede and general public take note.

State civil service, said her choice and passion for the public service was primarily influenced by my upbringing. She noted that her late parents, Alhaji Amid Akanni and Alhaja Sikrat Abeke Eko had inculcated in her “the dignity of labour and the virtues of kindness and compassion for others, which stood me in good stead as my journey began precisely on October 27, 1980, when I joined the Lagos State Civil Service as an Administrative Officer II, GL 08.” She said she realized quite early that her knowledge, skills and competences were going to be the major determinants of her career path, saying that was why she seized every opportunity to learn from her superiors and colleagues. CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS OJO FOLUKE O. now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ADEFEYIJU FOLUKE OMOLARA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME STEPHEN : Formerly known as STEPHEN NNAMDI EGECHI, now wish to be known and address as OSCAR NNAMDI EGECHI. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as Miss Adegunju Olawumi Florence, now wish to be known addressed as Mrs. Abodunrin Olawumi Florence . All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME ENDURANCE: formerly known and addressed as ETARERI EKU ENDURANCE, now wish to be known and addressed as MR ETARERI EKU FAVOUR. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OKOLI: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKOLI EVANGELINE NWAMAKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OKOLIE EVANGELINE NWAMAKA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OKOYE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKOYE OGOCHUKWU ELIZABETH, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ILIKA OGOCHUKWU ELIZABETH All former documents remain valid. NYSC, and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME ILIKA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ILIKA IFEYINWA VIVIAN, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ONYIA IFEYINWA VIVIAN. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Kaduna unveils new healthcare law

…to modernise 255 centres A za Msue, KADUNA

aduna State government yesterday unveiled its new primary healthcare law. Addressing the second Kaduna State Healthcare Partners’ Summit, Governor Nasir el-Rufai commended the state’s House of Assembly for the speedy passage of the law. According to the governor, the new law would permit the state to organise its primary healthcare activities under one roof, adding that implementation of the law would transfer workers in primary healthcare centres from local governments to the state’s civil service. El-Rufai said: “When we had the first summit on June 16, 2015, our young government was delighted by the turnout and your willingness to work with us. Health is one of the priority sectors for this government, and I must thank you for sharing our goal to deliver for Kaduna State citizens a better health and longer life expectancy. “During the first summit, we shared with you some of the dismal indices of our state in infant and maternal mortality, malar-

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Wednesday, October 28, 2015

ia treatment, measles vaccination and HIV/AIDS prevalence. We did that not for purposes of pointless lamentation, but to underline the scale of the challenge and our duty to deliver better healthcare outcomes to our people.” “One of our key goals is to place our state in the top tier for healthcare delivery. Participants responded positively to our request for coordination and collaboration among partners and donors to support our government’s healthcare programme. “Since then, our state House of Assembly has passed a law to place primary healthcare under one roof. We have advanced the partnership with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Dangote Foundation close to the implementation phase. We have been prompt in making our counterpart funding available for health programmes. The 2015 workplace with UNICEF is proceeding. “Our MoU with GE Healthcare has reached costing level, and both parties are ready to deliver modernised 255 primary healthcare centres, one in each ward, in 2016.”

Kwara workers protest non-payment of salaries

…say six members’ve starved to death Wole Adedeji, ILORIN

orkers of the Kwara State Water Corporation yesterday barricaded entrance to the corporation’s premises at Sulu Gambari Road, Ilorin, protesting non-payment of their four months’ salaries. Chairman of the workers union, Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, AUPCTRE, Comrade Gabriel Afolabi, who led the workers on the protest, said they were pushed to the wall, hence the action. Addressing journalists

at the venue, Afolabi said the union has lost six of its members between July and now, while some of them who were aged have developed heart-related diseases and are being hospitalised for lack of money to meet their needs. He lamented that the public utility outfit that used to be a promising place of work, guaranteeing bright future for its employees has, sadly, become a place of sorrow for workers. The workers who carried placards with series of inscriptions were demanding their salary arrears and implementation of their outstanding promotions for 2012, 2013, 2014

and 2015. The workers also complained about nonremittance of 10 months’ co-operative deductions (January to October 2014), amounting to about N70 million as well as the nonremittance of already deducted National Housing Fund, union due deductions from October,2014 to June 2015, eight months’ outstanding arrears of N3,000, in addition to the N18,000 minimum wage, amounting to N5.4 billion. The placards carried by them contained inscriptions such as “Pay us our salary arrears”, “We are not fools”, “Give us our rights,” and “No pay, no work.”

Speaking further to newsmen, the union’s chairman said AUPCTRE had written series of letters to the management and government over its members’ plight to no avail. He said the workers, numbering about 600 were forced to resort to protest to press home their demands, having explored all other means to let the management see reasons and assuage their plight. Reacting, chief press secretary to the state governor, Abdulwahab Oba, blamed the workers’ plight on the drop in the Federal Allocations and the resultant effect on the finances of the state government.

Tribunal ruling triumph of people’s will –Lalong James Abraham, JOS

overnor Simon Lalong of Plateau State has described the election petitions tribunal ruling in his favour as triumph of the will of the people. The tribunal had on Monday dismissed the suit filed against his election by Mr. Gyang Pwajok, governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the April 2015 election. Pwajok filed the suit, claiming the election was marred by irregularities and urged the tribunal to nullify it; but the tribunal on Monday dismissed the suit for lack of merit. Lalong’s senior special adviser on media and publicity, Mr. Mark Longyen, in a statement in Jos yesterday said the governor described the ruling as a vindication of his victory at the poll. “The governor wishes to dedicate this victory to

the entire people of Plateau State, who after enduring eight years of unprecedented civilian dictatorship, yearned and prayed for change and massively voted for the desired change, which has now come to stay. “The state government, therefore, wishes to extend an olive branch to all its political opponents and urges them to join hands with the governor’s rescue team in its divine mission to salvage Plateau State. “Also, government would like to call on all the peaceloving people of Plateau State to put behind them the distraction of politics and join hands with the Lalong administration in order to reap the dividends of democracy that are encapsulated in its Five-Point Policy Thrust. “Finally, government wishes to thank its legal team, security agencies and the entire people of the state for ensuring a smooth judicial process, which has culminated in today’s victory.”

L-R: Chairman, Jaiz Bank Plc, Alhaji Umaru Mutallab; Emir of Gumi, Justice Lawal Aliyu Gummi; Chairman on the occasion, Dr. Oba Otudeko and Promotional Officer, Wacot Ltd, Mr. Auwal Yaro, inspecting exhibition stand at First Daily Trust Agricultural Conference and Exhibition in Abuja, yesterday.

Niger Assembly wants governor’s CPS sacked

Priscilla Dennis, MINNA

iger State House of Assembly has passed a resolution urging Governor Abubakar Bello to sack his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Dooba, over unguarded utterances on legislative functions of the House, yesterday. The resolution was passed following a motion moved under matter of urgent public importance by Hon. Abdulmalik Kabir (Paikoro, APC) and seconded by Hon. Muhammed Lokogoma

(Wushishi, APC) in a plenary presided over by deputy speaker, Hon. Hussaini Ibrahim of Agaie constituency of the APC. According to the lawmaker, the ‘Leadership’ and ‘Blueprint’ newspapers of Monday, October 26, 2015, reported that His Excellency, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, had submitted 15 commissionernominees to the Niger State House of Assembly for confirmation. Kabir stated: “The CPS went further to tell journalists that the names had been sent to the Niger State House of Assembly

and that the leadership of the House would unveil it yesterday during its plenary session. “Up till this moment, the Niger State House of Assembly is yet to receive the list of commissionernominees from the governor. It is disappointing that a person of the CPS’ standing could be unprofessional in the execution of his duties and assume a role that is not his.” Also, Hon. Muhammed Nurudeen, representing Kontagora 1, of the APC, said so far the House and the state had had enough of Dooba’s excesses, and

therefore, needs to replace him with a more competent person. He explained that before now, Dr. Dooba went on air to tell the world that the governor had removed caretaker chairmen, which was not true, and henceforth, the House will not fold its arms and allow him to ridicule the Assembly and the government of APC. After listening to the contribution of members on the matter, the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ibrahim directed the clerk to dispatch the decision of the Assembly to the governor.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MRS IKEGWU LORIARIS EJIROGHENE,now wish to be known, called and addressed as MISS AKPORUGO LORIARIS EJIROGHENE. All documents and certificates bearing my former names remain valid. General public and relevant authorities should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Fagbemi Saheed, now wish to be known and addressed as Kakawa Saheed Olamilekan. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Onyia Precious Chioma, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Nzemeke Precious Chioma. All former documents remain valid. General public take note. CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS OLUWAFEMI EUNICE TOYIN, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. IBITOYE EUNICE TOYIN. All former documents remain valid. Bureau of Statistics and any other authority concerned and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS EYEBIOKIN FEYISETAN CHRISTIANAH, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OWOLABI FEYISETAN CHRISTIANAH. All former documents remain valid. Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OLADUNJOYE: I, formerly known and addressed as OLADUNJOYE MODUPE GRACE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as DADA MODUPE GRACE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly addressed and known as MISS FAMUYIWA OLUWASAYO ENIOLA, now wish to be called and addressed as MRS. ABOLAJI OLUWASAYO ESTHER. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MR AFOLABI OLADEJI DONALD, now wish to be known and addressed as MR. AFOLABI OLADEJI DONALD SOWEMIMO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as ALFRED PAPAO .N. now known as UCHENNA WILLAMS OKORO. All former documents remains valid Access bank and general public take note LOSS OF DOCUMENT This is to inform the General public of the Loss of Original Allocation Letter of Plot 4A Block G, Oke – Eletu Housing Estate, Ikorodu Lagos State, belonging to Chief Ariyo Ajaja. All efforts to trace the said document proved abortive. Lagos State Lands Bureau , Ministry of Housing & general public should take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to confirm that I Kodichinma Osuji Eze, Eze Martins K.D, Eze Kodichinma, Ezeh Martins K. is the same person as Ezeh Kodichinma Martins Dennis. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS AISHAT ISYAKU UMAR, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ELABOR KAREEM AISHAT. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS DUROJAIYE ADENIKE MORENIKEJI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ADEKOLA ADENIKE MORENIKEJI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS OLADIPUPO ABISOLA KUNMI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OYETUNDE ABISOLA KUNMI. All former documents remain valid. Authority concern and general public note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS OYEWOLE BUKOLA GRACE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. AKINRINMADE BUKOLA GRACE. All former documents remain valid. Ministry of Education, Ekiti State. Government College Ado-Ekiti and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME ORIYOMI: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ORIYOMI MAYOWA YEWANDE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. AZEEZ MAYOWA YEWANDE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS OLOWE VICTORIA BUNMI, now wish to be known and called as MR.S OJO VICTORIA BUNMI. All former documents remain valid. Osun State Polytechnic, Iree and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS JANET MONISOLA ABOSEDE KOMOLAFE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. JANET MONISOLA ABOSEDE ADEDOYIN - WHYTE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS ANINWACHI OBIAGERI MERCY, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ONWUCHEKWA FAVOUR FBIAGERI. All former documents remain valid general public take note LOSS OF DOCUMENT This is to inform the General public of the Loss of Original Certificate of Occupancy with Registered as No 80 Page 80 in Vol. 1983E dated 10th June, 1983 in Lagos State Land Registry, Lagos, Nigeria, belonging to Mr. Mujib Ayodele Oseni. All efforts to trace the said document proved abortive. Lagos State Lands Bureau & general public should take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE GRACE REACHFILL DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION NOTICE is hereby given to the general public that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matter Act 1990.

The Trustees are: 1. MR. SAMUEL OLUSINA FASOYIRO - Chairman 2. DR. (MRS.) SUBUOLA BOSEDE FASOYIRO -Vice Chairman 3. MR. OLANREWAJU OBASESAN - Secretary 4. MRS. TITILAYO ADENIJI - Treasurer 5. DN. ELIJAH - Member 6. ENGR. OLURANTI REBECCA OPAWALE - Member Aims and Objectives: 1. 2. 3. 4.

To improve the well-being of members. To reach out for the widows/orphans. To assist the less privileged ones. To help improve the community.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Mr.Olanrewaju Obasesan Secretary

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Maryam Abimbola Ishaq, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Maryam Abimbola Abubakar . All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS BASSEY VICTORIA OKOH, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. VICTORIA OKOH AKPROKU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as OGUNBOWALE OLAWALE SAMSON, now wish to be known and addressed as OLAWALE SAMSON OLUWASEGUNFUNMI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS OHUNGBOGBOLODI BOSEDE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OLUWATOYIN BOSEDE RONKE. All former documents remain valid,Hospital Management Board Ado-Ekiti and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS OMOLOLA OLUWASEYI OGUNLEYE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OMOLOLA OLUWASEYI IBIKUNLE. All former documents remain valid and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME MBEE: I, formerly known and addressed as OLEMABU MACNELSON MBEE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OLEMABU MACNELSON WILLIAMS. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly called and addressed as Miss Agbeyo Oluwakemi Funmilola, now wish to be called and known as MRS. OGINNI OLUWAKEMI FUNMILOLA. All former documents remain valid. National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as MISS OJEWALE KAFILAT OLUBUKOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. KAFILAT OLUBUKOLA OJEWALE - ATANDA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME This is to certify that IKEOHA CONSTANCE NWANNENNA is the same person as TIMOTHY NWANNENNA CONSTANCE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as MISS CHIWUZIE EBELE ANNAH, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OKAFOR EBELE ANNAH. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as VICTOR ONYEKA ANIOGBONNA, now wish to be known and addressed as VICTOR ANI- MICHAELS. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS OLUSEGUN RACHAEL MERCY, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ABUBAKAR RACHAEL MERCY. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as MISS MOMODU PATIENCE WOSILAT, Now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OYEGOKE PATIENCE WOSILAT. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS ATEWOGBOLA MARY BOSEDE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. LAWAL MOJI. All former documents remain valid. Ministry of health Ekiti-State and general public take note. CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to notify the general public that my late fathers’ name was called and addressed as NWOME EBIYEFAGHA TORUKURU and not NWOME E. TORUKWU as wrongly written in his certificate of rights of occupancy. All documents remain valid.The general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME BAYE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS BAYE BUKOLA OYEWOLA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. ENIAYEWU BUKOLA OYEWOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and called as MISS OGUNLOWO SEUN AJIBOLA, now wishes to be addressed and called as MRS. EMMANUEL SEUN AJIBOLA. All former documents remain valid. Osun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Boripe Local Government and Education Authority (LGEA) and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS ROSEMARY DOOSHIMA KANDEOR, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS.ROSEMARY DOOSHIMA NOMIGO. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as RASHEED AMINAT FOLASHADE, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEBOYE AMINAT FOLASHADE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME IFEZUE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS IFEZUE CHIDIMMA DORATHY, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ASIEGBU CHIDIMMA DORATHY. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE THE WESLEY SYNOD CANTERBURY ENGLAND, UNITED KINGDOM AFRICAN CONFERENCE COLLEGE OF BISHOPS IS ABOUT TO CONSECRATE REV. DR. JONATHAN IFEDIORA IKEGWUONU AS BISHOP CAREthe GOSPEL CHURCH ONthe 29TH ThisOF is LIFE to notify general publicINC. that offer 2015 with New file of statutory rightNOVEMBER, of occupancy Signed number;Chidi RV B.20390 and old file number : RV Nnaji Esq (Barrister & Solicitor) Km I by Onitsha Enugu Express Road,Territory, 658 issued the / Federal Capital PhaseJune 2, Onitsha, Abuja Omagba dated 20th 2006Anambra belongsState to Late

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

NWOME EBIYEFAGHA TORUKURU got lost as a result of mis-placement sometime in the year 2010. All efforts to trace the said document proved abortive. If found,please contact the nearest police station or call Mr Torukuru Beke Johnwright on 07030245108, 08066291985

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as OLUWASHINA OLUWADARE AJAYI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OLUWADARE MARY (NEE AJAYI) ODUKOYA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Adelakun Afolake Aderayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Olawunmi Afolake Aderayo, All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as MISS LAWAL MUIBAT YINKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. YUSUF MUIBAT YINKA. All former documents remain valid, authority concerned and general public note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS BANKOLE ADEJOKE MERCY, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. FAROTIMI ADEJOKE MERCY. All former documents remain valid and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NKECHINYERE NDUBUIRO, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AZIBAYAM JEREMIAH IGBILA. All documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME FAKEYE: I, formerly known and addressed as MRS. FAKEYE CHRISTIANA OLUTOLA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. EMMANUEL CHRISTIANA OLUTOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly addressed and known as MISS OMILEYE FUNMILAYO CHRISTIANAH, now wish to be called and addressed as MRS. ADEPETU FUNMILAYO CHRISTIANAH. All former documents remain valid. Osun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Oriade Local Government Education Authourity (LGEA) and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME ODUNLAMI: Formerly known and addressed as MISS ODUNLAMI SARAH ABOSEDE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ATOYEBI SARAH ABOSEDE. All Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ahmed Oluwafunmilayo Seun now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Jon-Ajumobi Oluwafunmilayo Seun. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME NDUKA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NDUKA AMARA FAVOUR, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS CHUKWUJEKWU AMARA FAVOUR. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS LATTEF ODUNOLA ALABI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. LATEEF ODUNOLA ALABI ADBULLAH. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME TAIWO: Formerly known and addressed as WILLIAMS TAIWO OLASUMBO, now wish to be known and addressed as ALUKO TAIWO OLASUMBO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MOMOH YUSUF NASIRU, now wish to be known and addressed as MOMOH YUSUF DANIEL. All former documents remain valid. General public take note. CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MISS ONIYELU OLUFUNKE EUNICE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. SANUSI OLUFUNKE EUNICE. All former documents remain valid. Hospital Management Board, Ekiti State and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as UZOUKWU CHIBUZOR RAMSON, now wish to be known and addressed as STEPHEN CHIBUZOR RAMSEY. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME ABRAHAM: I, formerly known and addressed as SERAH ADEDOYIN ABRAHAM, now wish to be known, called and addressed as SERAH OKOEKA-THOMPSON. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS ADEYEMO IDAYAT TEMITOPE, now wish to be called and addressed as MRS. OGUNMODEDE IDAYAT TEMITOPE. All former document remain valid, National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as MISS AKOMOLAFE CECILIA FUNMILAYO, now wish to be called and addressed as MRS. OWOMORINLE CECILIA FUNMILAYO. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public to take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as Miss Oyebanjo -Solarin Olubunmi Ayobola now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oyebanjo -Akinola Olubunmi Ayobola. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME AYOGU: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AYOGU STELLA CHINELO, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ONYEBUCHI STELLA CHINELO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE SAVOUR OF HIS LOVE OUTREACH The general public is hereby notified that above named organization has applied for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990. The Trustees Are: 1. ODUYIGA OLUWAKEMI OMOLARA 2. ODUYIGA OLUKAYODE DAVID 3. OKUNEYE MOSUNMOLA OUR CORE OBJECTIVES: • Preaching and Teaching the Word of God to all mankind • Giving hope to the Hopeless • Helping Youths to live a productive Life. • Ensuring solidification of Biblical Marriage in Homes • Academic and Career supports to the Less Privileges • Organizing Vocational Training for People in order to Reduce/Eradicate Poverty and Joblessness • Biblical Counseling to people. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28days from the date of this publication. Signed: Oduyiga Oluwakemi Omolara

Wednesday October 28, 2015

Warriors’ striker begs mates to win match for dead mum

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

I have had downturn to be sure. But I have not allowed the situation to kill my spirit to bounce back – Swansea striker, Michu

Nigeria’s top striker, Victor Osimhen (9) is expected to increase his four goals tally tonight

The Fixtures Brazil

N/Zealand

Mexico

Chile

Nigeria

Austrialia

South Korea

Belgium

Chile 2015 Rd of 16: FIFA tips Eaglets to beat Australia tonight Everest Onyewuchi

orld football governing body, FIFA, has tipped Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets to defeat their Australian opponents tonight, as the knockout stages of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Chile 2015 begin today. According to FIFA, in the days leading up to the second round matches, several coaches have expressed the view that “a new tournament starts here,” as eight teams head home after the group stage and a further 16

sides continue their bids for the title, first battling for a place in the quarter-finals. FIFA said yesterday in its preview of the matches: “If past form is anything to go by, fourtime champions Nigeria should be relaxed going into their duel with Australia. The Golden Eaglets have won all five of the two teams’ previous meetings at FIFA U-17 World Cups, scoring 12 goals along the way while conceding just two. Nigeria defeated the Joeys 2-1 when the two sides last faced each other in 2003.”

It said Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen is the player to watch out during the encounter. “The striker’s four goals and one assist make him the highest scoring player in the group stages. If he does go on to collect the adidas Golden Boot, he will become the third Nigerian to be named top goalscorer at a FIFA U-17 World Cup after Macauley Chrisantus in 2007 and Wilson Oruma back in 1993, if he does, bringing the Golden Eaglets level with Spain’s tally of three previous Golden Boot winners in this competition (Borja in

2009, Cesc Fabregas in 2003 and David in 1997).” By statistics, Nigeria, Brazil and Mexico have lifted a combined total of nine trophies in the 15 U-17 World Cups that have been held since 1985, with five of the previous six editions of the tournament being won by one of the trio. Also, the game between the hosts and the 2013 runners-up looks set to be a fascinating encounter. El Tri emerged unbeaten from the group stages with two wins and a draw under their belts, even managing to sweep

aside a Germany side that had already recorded two dominant victories. By contrast Chile almost suffered an early exit after a stalemate with Croatia and a bitter 5-1 defeat at the hands of holders Nigeria before securing their spot in the Round of 16 as one of the best third-place finishers thanks to a 4-1 win over USA. Meanwhile, Chilean referees will officiate the Nigeria versus Australia second round game at the Estadio Sausalito in Vina Del Mar.

Sports

Wednesday October 28, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FIFA presidency:

South African Sexwale vows to repair image

Sexwale

W/Cup qualifier: Benin calls up Bayelsa Utd duo

enin have called up Bayelsa United skipper Junior Salomon and teammate Lazadi Fousseni for next month’s World Cup qualifier against Burkina Faso. However, Kano Pillars goalkeeper Emmanuel Fabiyi has been left out of a 25-man squad. England-based stars Stephane Sessegnon from West

Brom as well as Aston Villa striker Rudy Gestede have also been invited. Benin welcome Burkina Faso to Cotonou on November 12 with the return leg in Ouagadougou five days later. Coach Omar Tchomogo will be hoping for a change of fortune for his team after they have gone six straight games without a win.

outh Africa’s Tokyo Sexwale says he is “ready to take on the world” in his bid to become FIFA president and aims to repair the “damaged” organisation. According to BBC Sport, the 62-year-old won the required support to enter his application on Monday to stand in February’s election. “I am going into this campaign as a candidate of my country with the confidence bestowed in me to make sure that we win,” Sexwale said. “But win or lose people will know there was an African who shook things up,” he told BBC Sport. Candidates had until 11pm last Monday to submit the relevant paperwork - together with letters of support from five

football associations. Sexwale is one of eight men who were able to do so and put themselves in the running to contest the elections, which will be held on February 26. “I think it was a vote of confidence by people who I can only say understand who I am and what I will be able to bring to football,” he added. “FIFA, the organisation of the beautiful game, is damaged. The brand is severely undermined.” Sexwale, who has been a member of FIFA’s anti-discrimination task force, has conducted talks between the Palestinian and Israeli federations, and was a member of the bid team and the organising committee for the 2010 World Cup, the first held in Africa. “Having spent time inside

FIFA, I am more than ready to take on the world,” he added. FIFA is embroiled in the worst scandal of its 111-year history, with the United States having indicted several of its FIFA officials for bribery, money laundering and wire fraud in May. Swiss authorities are also investigating the decision to award the 2018 and 2022 World Cups to Russia and Qatar respectively. Both countries deny any wrongdoing. Blatter and Michel Platini, president of European football’s governing body UEFA, who had been favourite to succeed him, have been suspended for 90 days pending a full investigation by FIFA’s Ethics Committee. Both deny any wrongdoing.

of the those running, but the official list of candidates for the February 26 election is expected to be made public today, a source close to FIFA told AFP. Meanwhile, one of the contenders, Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim al Khalifa of Bahrain moved to deny claims he had been involved in the torture of footballers.

And another hopeful, the 62-year-old South African antiapartheid campaigner Tokyo Sexwale, and the Bahraini royal, Shaikh Salman, the head of the Asian Football Confederation, confirmed their bids on Monday as UEFA General Secretary, Gianni Infantino, also entered the running to blow the race wide open.

...as candidates await confirmation

he eight candidates to succeed Sepp Blatter as FIFA president were still waiting to have their bids validated by the electoral committee yesterday after the deadline for hopefuls to come forward passed. FIFA’s electoral committee was set to meet yesterday to study each bid and the integrity

Chelsea will rebound, says Lampard

J Lampard during his Stamford Bridge days

ose Mourinho will be hurting over Chelsea’s miserable start to the season, but it is simply a matter of time before the team get their mojo back, according to former Stamford Bridge great, Frank Lampard. The 37-year-old, the highest scorer in Chelsea’s history with 211 goals, is now playing for New York City and was back in London yesterday to receive an OBE (Order of the British Empire) from Prince William at Buckingham Palace. “He’s a winner, his record says that and it will be hurting him,” Lampard said of his former boss Mourinho. “But I have no doubt about his ability and it will get him through.

“Chelsea will be back,” he told Sky Sports. “It’s a blip. You don’t expect them to lose that many games at the start of the season but they’ll turn it around. “They have great ability in the squad. It’ll be difficult to win the Premier League now but they’ll move up to where they belong soon,” added Lampard. “There are too many players who are not quite in form at the moment and that’s why they are having problems.” Champions Chelsea are sixth from bottom after losing five of their 10 Premier League matches this season and Mourinho has come under increasing fire for his repeated runins with match officials and the FA.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sports

Wednesday October 28, 2015

Midweek League with PAUL EREWUBA 08032138738

Table Enyimba against Akwa United during a league match

Today fixtures

The Peoples Elephant won the reverse fixture 3-2 in Ilorin earlier in the season and look good to do the double over the Harmony Boys. Enyimba will welcome back goalkeeper Olufemi Thomas, Idris Aloma and Ezekiel Bassey who missed the week 34 fixture against Nasarawa United due to national team engagement. On the other hand, Wolves who will be desperate to remain second or over take Enyimbawill travel to Makurdi where they will be guests

of Lobi Stars. Defeat for the Seasiders could derail their title aspirations, while the home side too will be out for a win to ease their relegation worries. The Rwang Pam Stadium, Jos will host the Giwa FC versus Wikki Tourists clash. Both sides are on the same points with Wikki having better goal difference to their northern rivals. Wikki are third on the log, while Giwa FC are fourth. Akwa United will test their might against Sunshine Stars at the Godswil Apkabio Stadi-

parted soul of his mother, Madam Ifeyinwa Beatrice Chikatara. Chisom’s mum will be interred at the Chikatara’s home in Amuzukwu Ibeku,

Chikatara

Umuahia today same day teammates will engage strugglers, Bayelsa at the Oghara Township Stadium. Chikatara who will not be available for the clash at Bayelsa United however promised to host teammates upon return with the whole three points at stake. “Of course, I won’t be available for today’s clash at Bayelsa United. “However, I have charged my teammates to win, at least, for the departed soul and come back for a sumptuous entertainment. “They have promised to come back with the three points though we understand that victory belongs

Enyimba

Wolve

Wikki

Giwa

Sunshine

El-kanemi

Giwa

Wikki

Nasarawa

Gabros

Heartland

Sharks

3SC

Taraba

Nasarawa

Abia

Enyimba

Kwara United

Abia Warriors

Pillars

Bayelsa

3SC

Rangers

IfeanyiUbah

El-Kanemi

Lobi

Akwa

Sharks

Dolphins

Kwara

Taraba

Bayelsa

Lobi

Warri Wolves

Akwa Utd

Sunshine

Pillars

Rang

um, Uyo. The home side who have struggled in recent outings must win the tie to boost their survival hopes. Defending Champions Kano Pillars and Rangers will clash in Kano. Both sides have little to play for as they are not in the hunt for the title or in the fight to beat the drop. 3SC coach, Gbenga Ogunbote, will lead his charges against his former side Sharks in Port Harcourt. Interestingly, the opposition coach, Festus Allen, has also worked with 3SC in the past.

Warriors’ striker begs mates to win match for dead mum

ereaved Abia Warriors top striker, Chisom Chikatara has charged teammates to win their Week 35 match against Bayelsa United for the de-

Dolphins

Relegation haunted Kwara Utd dare Enyimba in Aba

nyimba will today at the Aba International Stadium host relegation threatened Kwara United in one of the Week 35 Glo Premier League. Indeed, the People’s Elephant have the chance to either hold on to the top spot by beating the Afonja Warriors or losing and crash to the second spot. The former African champions who are leading secondplaced Warri Wolves will attempt to compound Kwara United woes today.

Teams

to God so we are seeking His blessing and favour in the clash. “Abia Warriors do not have too much pressure. The pressure will certainly be on Bayelsa United due to their uncomfortable position on the league table. “What we need to relax and play our normal game. Warriors must look out for the mistakes in Bayelsa to make a kill out of it for the maximum three points at stake.” Abia Warriors are eighth with 50 points 12 points behind league leaders and city mates, Enyimba with four matches on the season’s calendar.

Wolves call off strike, face Lobi today

arri Wolves players yesterday resolved to honour their match day 35 Glo Premier League fixture against Lobi Stars. It would be recalled that Wolves had initially refused to travel to Makurdi for the game, after they went on strike demanding for their owed salaries. The League Management Company on Monday warned the players against their action, but they turned it down. It was however gathered that, the players changed their mind yesterday after a meeting with the management. “We have agreed to travel to Makurdi for the game against Lobi Stars,” one of the players informesaid. “We had a meeting with the management and later decided toplay the match against Lobi today” The LMC on Monday threatened to impose a-six point- deduction on the club if they failed to liquidate all financial indebtedness to players and managers.

Salami leading Wolves

WORLD RECORD

Most subscribers on YouTube Vol. 05 No. 1230

N150

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

As of 7 July 2014, “PewDiePie”, aka Felix Arvid Ulf Kjellberg (Sweden), had 28,292,944 YouTube subscribers for his comedic video g aming highlights.

Lagos traffic: When corruption fights back

ow that the traffic situation in Lagos is improving gradually and Governor Akinwunmi Ambode is fairly demonstrating his resolve to be his own man and lead the state of aquatic splendor with steady hands, it is important to revisit a few salient points that should put the knotty issue of traffic congestion in perspective and offer guidance on how to proceed. In the heat of what would appear to be an orchestrated campaign against the Lagos State government, I had stumbled on one logical argument on social media, in which one Ifeanyi Ogbu had written a submission to argue that what was happening in Lagos and the sustained noise around it could only point in the direction of one thing – entrenched corruption within the system revolting against an attempt to sanitise the polity and give commuters some form of

Guest Columnist

Emmanuel Abe

civilized treatment. Mr. Ogbu titled his submission: Corruption fights back. I thought that was as apt as it was instructive. He first gave an insightful background to the issue: “For two weeks now, Lagos has been on lockdown due to the severe traffic jam that has enveloped the city. Unpredictable. Undeniable. Unimaginable. These are the words that have failed to totally describe the traffic situation in the Centre of Excellence. “Coincidentally, at about the same two weeks ago, officials of the Lagos State Traffic Monitoring Agency (LASTMA), were ordered to stop jumping into cars of traffic offenders or impounding their cars. They were instructed to book the offenders and let them go. This is what obtains in developed societies and is a conscious effort to remove human intervention from the process or, at least, reduce it to the barest minimum. “It is not news that on the road, the LASTMA official is prosecutor, judge and jury. Meaning that “discussions” can be started and completed right there on the road in the comfort of the offender’s car. There have been cases of some unscrupulous officials following offenders to ATM centres to “collect the fine” for offences committed. “The interesting thing now is that since this order was given, LASTMA officials seem to have abandoned their posts. A few days ago I saw commercial buses “danfo” boldly parked at Lekki roundabout hustling for passengers at the detriment of other mo-

THERE HAVE BEEN CASES OF SOME UNSCRUPULOUS OFFICIALS FOLLOWING OFFENDERS TO

ATM

“COLLECT THE FINE” FOR

CENTRES TO

OFFENCES COMMITTED torists. LASTMA officials were nowhere to be found. Only three weeks ago, NO DANFO DRIVER would have attempted this.” Mr. Ogbu then asked the million-dollar question: “IS THERE A SILENT PROTEST BY AGGRIEVED LASTMA OFFICIALS? (emphasis his) Are they protesting an order that appears to have taken food from their table? If YES, then it’s working as Lagosians are already calling Governor Ambode all manner of names over the traffic situation. It appears Lagosians just want things to work irrespective of how it is done.” This writer was right when he said: “Under the former able Governor Fashola, everyone complained about LASTMA and the ways of some of its officials. Now Ambode is doing something about it and we all are shouting. I’ve listened to people say he should leave everything the way he met it and provide continuity. Some even said he should go for tutelage under BRF.”

But this writer saw the issue differently, saying his advice to Ambode is to insist on what he believes is best for Lagos. “He was voted in to take decisions on our behalf and that, he must do.” He then threw in the clincher: “If this is a war between Ambode and LASTMA OFFICIALS, then it is a war in which corruption is fighting back and Lagosians must choose which side they will fight on. I pray we don’t fight alongside corruption instead of fighting against it.” As a Benin City-born Lagosian, who has a fair idea of the history of traffic situation in Lagos, I thought Mr. Ogbu’s submission deserved more than a cursory look. Without a doubt, one could build a robust argument around the fact that Lagos is always a traffic mess during the raining season. This is an incontrovertible fact; as a coastline city below the sea level, it should be expected. Anybody who is familiar with big cities in China, where traffic sometimes run bumper-to-bumper for 48 hours, or in Mumbai (India) and Bangkok (Thailand) would know that this is a mega-city feature that is not peculiar to Lagos. Fridays are even worse, with their inexplicable traffic complexities, especially on those days when the two big churches along Lagos-Ibadan expressway have their special retreats. Needless to say that because this year was an election year, attention and perhaps funding for roads by the immediate past administration somewhat seized early, leaving many gaping holes and various degrees of decay on many roads. But then all these could have been gradually fixed as I believe they are being fixed without the orchestrated attacks on the governor if LASTMA officials had not been perceived to be complicit in their actions. And this is where the attention of the new Transport Commissioner must be: get LASTMA to work according to the vision of their employer or replace them with those who have the interest of Lagos state at heart! Abe, a security and human behavior analyst, lives in Lagos.

Sport Extra

Nagelsmann, likely Bundesliga youngest coach

wenty-eight-year-old Julian Nagelsmann will become the youngest coach in Bundesliga history when he takes charge of Hoffenheim next season, the club announced yesterday, providing they avoid relegation.

With Hoffenheim second from bottom, Markus Gisdol was relieved of his duties as head coach on Monday and has been replaced by renowned German club savior, Huub Stevens, for the rest of this season.

And rising talent Nagelsmann has been entrusted with the head coach’s job from the start of July 2016, with his three-year contract set to start just before his 29th birthday. He will continue coaching the club’s U-19 side for the rest

of this season. “This is the most logical and consistent decision,” said Hoffenheim’s multi-millionaire backer, Dietmar Hopp. “We want to continue to set standards in our youth teams’ work and the same goes for

our coaches.” It is a sign of Nagelsmann’s prowess that Bayern Munich tried to poach him to coach their U-17 team after he steered Hoffenheim’s Under-19 team to the 2013/14 German title.

Nagelsmann

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