February 25, 2016 by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

N1.04trn fine: MTN pays FG N50bn

Senate directs CBN to terminate Systemspecs’ TSA contract

...withdraws suit against NCC Isaiah Erhiawarien

Shittu

Vol. 6 N0. 1314

TN Nigeria Limited yesterday paid N50 billion

to the Federal Government to pave way for fresh negotiation of the N1.04 trillion fine imposed on it last year by the Nigerian Communications Com-

mission, NCC, over SIM card registration infractions. The telco has also withdrawn its suit, which it Continued on Page 2>>

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Emefiele

National Mirror Online @NationalMirror Thursday, February 25, 2016

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EFCC arrests Secondus, ex-PDP chairman E Obiora Ifoh and Marcus Fatunmole

conomic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday arrested former acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Uche Secondus. Sources at the commission said Secondus, who is deputy national chairman of the party, was brought into the commission’s office around 2pm for questioning. Head, Media and Public-

…party decries incessant clampdown

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26 states owe corps members allowance –DG

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The Ojomo of Idanre Kingdom, High Chief Agboola Akintan (left) and Group Managing Director, Energy Group, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR, at the 49th birthday ceremony of Dr. Ibrahim in Lagos, yesterday.

Osinbajo, Tinubu, Saraki, Atiku, others in crucial meeting

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S’Court rejects INEC’s application on Anambra PDP crisis

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Reps investigate N260m NAPIMS’ illegal deal

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Those who distorted 2016 budget’ll be punished –Buhari P.3

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ity of EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, confirmed his arrest to journalists in Abuja. Secondus was acting national chairman of the opposition party until last week, when he handed over to embattled new National Chairman, Alhaji Ali-Modu Sheriff. Director, New Media of the PDP, Adeyanju Deji, had earlier reported Secondus’s arrest through his Twitter handle @adeyanjudeji. Adeyanju had said that EFCC had asked Secondus to return some buses he received from a person he did not give his or her name. He said: “Prince Uche Secondus, PDP deputy national chairman has been arrested by Buhari’s EFCC. Shameless & childish folks. “There is no war against corruption in this country. What we have is a war against the PDP & our members. “EFCC said Prince Uche Secondus received some buses from someone & must return it (sic) Can you imagine this rubbish. “Why don’t you just arrest everyone in PDP? Do we look scared of you guys? Idiots.” Secondus joins the league of PDP stalwarts who have been arrested by the anti-graft agency. National Publicity Secretary of the party, Olisa Metuh, was granted bail by a court in Abuja recently after he had been in detention for about two weeks. He was accused of receiving N400 million from a former National Security Adviser, NSA, Col.

Thursday, February 25, 2016

EFCC arrests Secondus, ex-PDP chairman Sambo Dasuki (rtd). Dasuki is currently standing trial over his roles in alleged diversion of $2.1billion meant for procurement of arms to fight the belligerent Boko Haram. Dasuki has named prominent members of the PDP, including others who are sympathetic to the party in the alleged loot. Meanwhile, the party in its reaction described the arrest of Secondus as part of the grand script by the APC-led Federal Government to decimate the opposition. The party, while lamenting what it termed “the oppressive and unfair treatments against its key leaders by the Federal Government”, said it is aware that plans have been perfected to arrest and detain Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, Senate Minority Leader, Godswill Akpabio, and other leaders of the party on imaginary charges. In a statement by its National Legal Adviser, Victor Kwon, the party said: “Intelligence available to the party shows that the Federal Government, using its various agencies, is bent on destroying any opposition to the ruling party as all indications show that the government is more interested in humiliating the PDP than fighting corruption. “Finally, we state that this war on the PDP and its leaders has indeed gone too far. It has now become a mockery of democratic practice.”

L-R: Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola; former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke; former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon and Governor, Rotary International District 9126,Dr.Mike Omotosho, at the unveiling of “4 Way Test Initiative’’ in Abuja, recently. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Senate directs CBN to terminate Systemspecs’ TSA contract George Oji Abuja

enate has asked the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to terminate the contract for the collection of revenue by Systemspecs under the Treasury Single Account, TSA. Systemspecs is an erevenue collection firm, which was engaged by the Federal Government to assist it with the collection of all federal revenue into a single account. Following the recommended termination of the contract, the lawmakers

consequently recommended to CBN to pay the firm N656.5m as commission for the collection of N800bn under the TSA Programme as at October last year. The lawmakers also recommended that rather than charging 1 per cent on any amount collected by Systemspecs as was the case in the contract, N700m should be paid to Systemspecs as commission on any transaction made by the company. The above formed part of the 10-point recommendations, which were made and adopted by the senate yesterday.

N1.04trn fine: MTN pays FG N50bn CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

instituted against the in-

dustry regulator and the Federal Government, challenging the legality of the fine. Announcing the payment, MTN Nigeria Chief Executive Officer, Ferdi Moolman, said that the move was part of steps towards a negotiated settlement and to create a conducive atmosphere for further negotiations. Moolman, who claimed that the payment

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was made in good faith according to fresh negation terms that were given by Minister of Communication, Mr. Adebayo Shittu, some weeks ago in Lagos, hinted further that the withdrawal of its case from the Federal High Court in Lagos was in response to a request by the authorities. He clarified: “This is a most encouraging development. It demonstrates a willingness and sincerity by both parties to work together towards a

positive outcome.” Moolman stated that his company was hopeful at this stage. He said: “Along with the authorities, it is clear that we are collectively committed to working towards a solution that is of mutual benefit to all parties. “Our industry in Nigeria is an incredibly important example of the remarkable progress in ICT, particularly as a much needed catalyst for socio economic growth

and development at this time.” It would be recalled that NCC had imposed the N1.04 trillion fine on MTN in October 2015, for its failure to disconnect 5.1 million improperly registered lines within the prescribed deadline. Subsequently the fine was adjusted by 25 per cent to N780 billion, an amount that was considered inimical to the survival of the business. MTN Nigeria subsequently sought judicial determination.

The recommendations were by the joint committees of the senate on Finance, Banking, Insurance and Public Accounts that were asked to carry out an investigation into the alleged N25bn commission paid to REMITA, an e-collection platform owned by Systemspecs for revenues remitted into TSA accounts last year. The joint committees was chaired by the Senate Committee Chairman on Finance, John Enoh. Part of the recommendations of the joint committees directed CBN to open up the space to other e-collection providers for competition, effectiveness, efficiency and greater robustness. Senate further directed that all agreed fees and payments for e-collection service should not be borne by MDAs but provided and disbursed from a central pool. In his remarks after the resolutions, Senate President, Bukola Saraki said the lawmakers, move on the TSA operation was not against the idea of e-collection per see, but finding out how it is being managed to save the country from any sharp practices. Saraki said: “I think that the message we are sending out today is very clear that

our interest lies in ensuring proper use of funds. This senate will stand firmly for that and this goes back to the issues where people wonder the usefulness or value of the parliament and I think this is a good example. “By this action, this country is saving close to between N22bn to over N30bn, which is higher than the appropriation of a lot of Ministries, Department and Agencies of Government, MDAs. “When motion for this investigation was raised in October last year, a lot of noise was made that it was just because the senate didn’t want to support TSA, but this report categorically applauds the TSA but the issue is that the cost of doing the transaction should not undermine the good purpose of the TSA and I think that was what we have done today “We will have to ensure that the respective agencies, particularly CBN must refund this money complying strictly with this observations and recommendations of the senate. “It is mind boggling to see the kind of money that would have just gone away to bribing people’s hands if not because this motion Continued on Page 3>>

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Thursday, February 25, 2016

Osinbajo, Tinubu, Saraki, Atiku, others in crucial meeting Rotimi Fadeyi Abuja

ice President Yemi Osinbajo yesterday met with the leadership of All Progressives Congress, APC, National Assembly and other party chieftains behind closed door at the Presidential Villa. The meeting, which lasted about four hours started at 11a.m. and ended at 3p.m. Curiously, the meeting was held at a time President Muhammadu Buhari is on a week-long trip to Saudi Arabia and Qatar to hold talks on efforts to stabilise falling oil prices. Present at the meeting were former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar; Senate President, Bukola Saraki; National Leader, Bola Tinubu; National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun and Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Lasun Yusuf. Others were Secretary to the Government of the Federation, David Lawal Babachir; APC former Interim National Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande; Deputy Chairman, South West, Chief Segun Oni; Senate Leader, Ali Ndume; Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu; former Information Minister, Prince Tony Momoh and Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prince Eze Madumere. Shortly before the end of the meeting, Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, (Office of the Vice President), Senator

Babafemi Ojudu, told State House correspondents who had been waiting for the outcome of the meeting, said there would not be any interview. He said it was a consultative meeting of leaders over party affairs and that they should be allowed to go without any interview. All those who attended declined to speak with State House correspondents at the end of the meeting. As Tinubu was about to enter his vehicle, correspondents probed him further on issues that were discussed, but he also declined comment. But in a terse statement he later issued, Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Publicity, Laolu Akande, said: “Select leaders of All Progressives Congress, APC, drawn from the party’s national headquarters, the legislative and executive arms of government had a consultative meeting on issues affecting the party and the nation. “The meeting, which held at the Vice President’s conference room, was very useful and resourceful towards achieving the goals of the party and the government.” There had been frosty relationship between the legislature and the executive as well as internal wrangling in the party. For Saraki, he is still standing trial before the Code of Conduct Tribunal over alleged false declaration of asset.

Senate directs CBN to terminate Systemspecs’ TSA contract CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

came. “I want to encourage our colleagues to ensure that despite the kind of blackmail that we received in doing our work, we should follow the examples that has been shown by these three committees that when we have this sort of issues, we must stand for what we believe is right. “The work is not done yet, we must see proof that this money has been refunded, we must see proof that the contracts have been terminated and must see proofs that in going forward, the new rate for payment of commission is enforced.” When he appeared before the joint probe com-

mittees in December last year, Managing Director of Systemspecs, owner of REMITA e-collection platform, Mr. John Obaro, had explained that the 1 per cent charge was not for REMITA alone but shared along with CBN and other Deposit Money banks. This is on the ratio of 50 per cent for REMITA, 40 per cent for other Deposit Money Banks and the remaining 10 per cent for CBN. The SystemSpecs boss, who gave graphic details of how his firm ran into trouble waters with CBN over the charges, lamented that the media reports then had portrayed his firm as being used and dumped by the Federal Government on what he described as laudable exercise.

L-R: Charge d’Affaires, Nigerian Embassy in Turkey, Mr Ibrahim Isah; Director of Economic Implementation and External Relations, Organisation for Economic Cooperation, also known as Developing-8 (D-8), Mr Kazi Hasan; Secretary-General of D-8, Dr Seyed Mohammed; Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Aisha Abubakar; Charge d’Affaires, Nigerian Embassy in Sweden, Mrs Naomi Chukwumaeze and Foreign Service Officer, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Kimiebi Ebienfa, during the visit of D-8 delegation to the Minister’s office in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Those who distorted 2016 budget’ll be punished –Buhari Abu R otimi ja

Fadeyi

resident Muhammadu Buhari has vowed that all those involved in the padding of the 2016 budget would face the most severe punishment. A statement yesterday by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said Buhari, while addressing Nigerian Community in Saudi Arabia, condemned the distortion of the budget proposals by entrenched interests, It would be recalled that Buhari sacked the Director-General (Budget), Mr. Yahaya Gusau last week Monday and approved the appointment of Mr. Tijjani Mohammed Abdullahi as his replacement. According to the statement, the President said the unauthorised alterations had completely changed the document from the one he presented to the National Assembly. “The culprits will not go unpunished. I have been a military governor, petroleum minister, military Head of State and headed the Petroleum Trust Fund. “Never had I heard the words “budget padding. Our minister of budget and national planning did a great job with his team. The minister became almost half his size during the time, working night and day to get the budget ready, only for some people to pad it.

“What he gave us was not what was finally being debated. It is very embarrassing and disappointing. We will not allow those who did it to go unpunished,” Buhari vowed. The President also assured members of the Nigerian community that his administration was working diligently to fulfill its campaign promises, particularly on security, unemployment, and corruption. While reaffirming his government’s zero tolerance for corruption, Bu-

hari said the war against sleaze was a monumental task that he is determined to tackle successfully. “We have zero tolerance for corruption and other unethical practices. We will deal decisively with anybody found wanting,” he said. Buhari also used the opportunity of the gathering to brief Nigerians in Saudi Arabia on his administration’s efforts to end the Boko Haram insurgency and terrorism in Nigeria. “Our armed forces have

done a great job of dealing decisively with Boko Haram. We are collaborating with our neighbours in the operations of the Multinational Joint Task Force to handle security threats in the sub-region and we have significantly destroyed the capacity of the insurgents,” the President said. He also spoke on efforts being made to diversify the economy, stressing that more opportunities are now open for local and foreign investors in the country.

Reps investigate alleged $260m NAPIMS illegal contract George Opara Abuja

ouse of Representatives mandated its committee on Petroleum (Upstream) and Public Procurement to investigate an alleged $260m illegal contract by National Petroleum Investment Management Services, NAPIMS, a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC. The resolution of the House was sequel to the passage of a motion titled: “Need to investigate NAPIMS alleged illegal award of $260m contract”, sponsored by Hon. Babatunde Gabriel Kolawole (Akoko South East/South West Federal Constituency, Ondo State). While arguing the motion, the lawmaker said there was need to curtail profligate use of the na-

tion’s resources, particularly in the face of dwindling oil revenue. “There is the need to investigate the report of an alleged $260m contract given by NAPIMS, a subsidiary of NNPC in fragrant violation of due process and without approval from both the NNPC’s board and the Corporation’s Group Executive Committee, GEC, as required. “NAPIMS reportedly granted approval for ESSO Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of ExxonMobil, to award four single source contracts for projects in Exxonmobil’s Usan Deepwater Project, at a total value of $260m without any form of tendering process,” he said. Kolawole added that NAPIMS had, through three memos, dated October 13, 2014; February 10, 2015 and

April 16, 2015, single handedly nominated four companies to execute the contracts. He further noted that NNPC Management washed its hands off the contract in a recent advert, saying it never gave approval for the said contract as it predates the current management. “This shallow excuse is not sufficient excuse to fritter away $260m, at a time when the nation is seeking ways to fund the 2016 budget and to weed out unnecessary expenses from the annual appropriation,” the lawmaker said He called on members to support the bid to curtail such profligate spending by probing the alleged illegality. The motion was passed with overwhelming support when the Speaker, Hon. Yakubu Dogara called for vote.

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THursday, February 25, 2016

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Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim (CFR) celebrates 49th birthday

Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim during prayer time.

L-R: Managing Director, NICON Properties Limited, Barrister Olanrewaju Alonge; Managing Director, NICON Hotel, Lagos, Mrs. Amina Baruwa; Managing Director, NICON Luxury, Abuja, Mrs. Abimbola Ogunlusi; Vice President, Energy Group, Mr. Emmanuel Jegede; Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim (CFR); Bishop Mike Afolabi, Mrs. Dupe Ibrahim and Architect Olu Agbesua.

The Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin and Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim (CFR)

L-R: Wife of the celebrant, Mrs. Modupe Jimoh; Managing Director, Re-insurance, Lady Isioma Chukwuma and Architect Olu Agbesua

L-R: Mrs Tola Daniyan, Mrs Modupe JImoh, Mr. Muhammed Akintola Jimoh and Mrs Omolola Akintola Jimoh L-R: Executive Director Nigeria Re-Insurance, Dr. Yele Akinrolabu, MD/CEO, Nigeria Re-Insurance, Lady Isioma Chukwuma and ED, Finance and Admin, Mrs. Esther Ajayi

Managing Director, Newswatch Times Newspapers/Newswatch Times Magazine, Mr. Demola Abimboye (left) and Managing Director, National Mirror Newspapers, Mr. Sunday Olajide

Saturday Editor, National Mirror Newspaper, Ms. Gbemi Olujobi(left) and Secretary to GMD, Oyefunke Taiwo-Aminu

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Thursday, February 25, 2016

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Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim (CFR) celebrates 49th birthday

Madam Teresa Jimoh

Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR, making birthday speech

L-R: Managing Director, NICON Properties Limited, Barrister Olanrewaju Alonge; Managing Director, NICON Luxury, Abuja, Mrs. Abimbola Ogunlusi and Vice President, Energy Group, Mr. Emmanuel Jegede

Bishop Mike Afolabi and Pastor Mrs Elizbeth Afolabi

L-R: Dr. Ajibola Falaiye, Hon. Peace Joe and Alhaji Kehinde Ayinla

L-R: Barrister Olanrewaju Alonge, Barister Chinedu Nwabekeh, Orangun of Oke Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin; Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, Segun Arowoyele and Barrister Yomi Apata

Branch Manager, NICON Insurance, Mr. Uzor Ogbonna (left) and Auditor, Mrs. Funmilayo Ekundayo.

L-R: Vice Chancellor, The Premiere University, Sao Tome and Principe, Prof. Taiwo Ajayi; MD/CEO, NICON Segurus, Sao Tome and Principe, Mrs. Sola Ahmed and MD/CEO, Energy Bank, Sao Tome and Principe, Mr. Funso Jolaiya.

L-R: Managing Director, National Mirror Newspapers, Mr. Sunday Olajide; Secretary to the GMD, Oyefunke Taiwo-Aminu and CEO, Sloane Communication, Mr. Sesan Ayeni.

Thursday, February 25, 2016

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Nigerian pilot set for historic solo flight round the world

Nigerian pilot, Mr. Ademilola Odujinrin, said he is preparing for a historic solo flight around the world in April. Odujinrin made the assertion while addressing aviation correspondents on the proposed mission at the local wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos. Odujinrin will be the first African to embark on the adventurous journey which had been accomplished by only 114 persons globally. This will be Africa’s

very first solo flight around the world, starting and finishing in Lagos, Nigeria - the continent’s most populous country. The project is supported by the Transcend Project, a non-governmental organisation. The journey, which will take him across the seven continents of the world, is expected to take up to six weeks depending on the weather conditions. The pilot said the visionary expedition was to demonstrate the potential capabilities of Nigeria and its people to achieve

extraordinary feats. “The project aims to inspire Nigeria’s teeming population to begin to conceive a world without borders with unbridled dreams to transform the Nigerian narrative while shattering all stereotypes. “The planned solo expedition will be achieved flying the aircraft, Cirrus SR22. It has a total payload

of about 439kg. “This particular aircraft with registration number N313CD has been specifically modified for this journey with additional long-range tanks and a HF radio installed for longer stretches of the journey,” he said. Odujinrin, who is married with two children, said he had so far acquired

over 4,000 flight hours and worked previously with Nigerian carrier, Arik Air. According to him, he is currently undergoing physical and psychological training to prepare him for the challenges of operating a flight without any assistance from another person. Also speaking, the Project Director, Transcend, Mr. Ladi Ani-Mumuney,

said the journey would cost over $1m and appealed for the support of well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organisations. Ani-Mumuney said the objective of the adventure was to inspire youths that follow their dreams and also promote the image of Nigeria outside the country.

Respect sanctity of legislature, Reps’ group tells Marafa

ome members of the House of Representatives representing the six geopolitical zones of the country yesterday urged Senator Kabiru Marafa to respect the sanctity of the legislature. This was contained in a statement given to newsmen by 11 members of the House of Representatives in Abuja. The statement said Marafa (Zamfara Central), should subsume his personal interest under the popular will of the senators who elected the leadership of the Senate. The reps said in the statement that their interest in the matter arose out of the realisation that Marafa’s personal attacks on the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, was misconceived. The statement said the attack had started to cast a slur on the integrity of the entire National Assembly over which the Senate President presides as Chairman. “It is indeed regrettable that eight months after the contest for leadership in the Senate ended, Marafa and his group have remained in electioneering mode,” it added. According to the statement, Marafa’s claim that there are fifth columnists working against the interest of the executive in the Senate is not in order. The statement said

any right thinking Nigerian knew that the budget as presented had a number of challenges, which needed the collaborative efforts of both arms of government to sort out. According to the statement, for Marafa to allude to the budget hiccups as the handiwork of the National Assembly is to say the least, unfortunate.

L-R: Deputy Governor of Imo, Prince Eze Madumere; APC leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and former Acting Chairman of APC, Chief Bisi Akande, after APC consultative meeting at the Presidential villa in Abuja yesterday.

FG seeks abolition of visa requirement among D-8 member countries

ederal Government has called for the abolition of visa requirement among members of the D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation to ensure free movement of people and trade. Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, made the call when he met with the Secretary General of the organisation, Dr Seyed Ali-Mohammed, in Abuja yesterday. The D-8 countries are Nigeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan and Turkey.

“One area that I think D8 must work on and if really they want to succeed, they must make sure that there is no barrier in DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE This is to notify the authorities concerned that the legal marriage between Mr. Kasimu Oyofo and Mrs. Bikima Emkodi Oyofo has been dissolved since 26th day of October 2013, due to irregularities at home and not caring of the mother at home. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

term of visa among those eight countries. “You cannot grow any trade talkless of tourism, if I cannot have easy access to Malaysia, Egypt, Iran, Pakistan. “You can imagine the volume of trade that will develop overnight if only you can make sure that if I want to go to Iran that there is bilateral agreement between Nigeria

and Iran, between Nigeria and Pakistan and among those eight countries that there will be free movement of people. “It is free movement of people that will guarantee free movement of trade. “So, this is one area that I believe that you need to work hard on,” he said. Mohammed, who commended the organisa-

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organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters ACT 1990 as amended in 2004. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MR. SAMUEL ENIOLA ADAMS 2. ALHAJI OLANREWAJU TAJUDEEN YINKA 3. MR. IKECHUKWU AGOSI UCHENDU 4. MRS. AKINTAN CALISTA CHINYERE 5. MR. EMMANUEL NNADOZIE 6. MR. THEODORE OPARA 7. MR. RICHARD OLADELE MOSES AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: Development and implementation of effective and innovative Crime stopping programme through various instruments at different levels of the society. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Area 11, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. FOR O.A. COKER & CO YOMI COKER.

tion’s focus on tourism development, said the provision of infrastructure was critical to the development of domestic tourism. “Until you develop domestic tourism, you cannot have international tourism,” he added. In his remarks, Ali-Mohammed said the purpose of his visit was to intimate the minister about CHANGE OF NAME ALA : Formerly known and addressed as ALA OLUWATOYIN ADENIKE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OLADUNMOYE OLUWATOYIN ADENIKE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

THOMAS: I, formerly known and addressed as IBIKUNLE OLANREWAJU THOMAS, now wish to be known and addressed as KUNLE ANDREW THOMAS. All former documents remain valid. General public take note. This publication rendered the earlier one published on February 24, 2016 on page 43 of same paper where Ibikunle Olanrewaju Thomas was mistakenly referred to as Adeniran Ismaila Temitope invalid. Error hereby regreted.

the organisation’s resolve to focus on tourism development as the area of cooperation among member countries. “The meeting today I am enthusiastic about tourism. “Very recently, on the proposal of member states, we came to conclusion that tourism or so could be one of our priority areas,” he said. CHANGE OF NAME

LAWRENCE: Formerly known and addressed as YEMI LAWRENCE now wish to be known and addressed as OJOMO OPEYEMI RASIDA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note. CHANGE OF NAME ODII: I, formerly known and addressed as EMINENT SAMUEL ODII, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OGBONNAYA SAMUEL ODII. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note. CHANGE OF NAME FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS RIDWAN GAFAR NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS GAFARU RIDWAN. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

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Thursday, February 25, 2016

Reps decry Benin Republic’s intrusion on Itongeji Island …want Ogun citizens protected Ubong Ukpong, Abuja

ouse of Representatives yesterday asked the Federal Government to protect citizens at Itongeji Island in Ogun State against the Republic of Benin, as well as establish government’s presence on that island. The House was worried that the government of Benin Republic had raised its flag and stationed various security agencies around the island, including school buildings for its citizens, while Nigerian government had abandoned the economically viable area. It therefore, mandated its committee on Special Duties, and Navy, to undertake an oversight visit to Itongeji Island with a view to recommending ways to secure it in order to protect Nigerian citi-

zens living there, who are facing risk of annexation by neighbouring Benin Republic. Hon Adekunle Abdulkabir Akinlade had brought a motion to the House on the need to address the problem of cross-border communal clashes in Itongeji Island. The legislator told the House that on November 20, 2015, residents of a small fishing village in Itongeji Island awoke to sounds of gunshots from rival fishermen from Otho village in Republic of Benin over fishing and waterways rights. He noted: “As a deliberate and strategic show of government’s presence in an area, Otho village is home to a police station, Immigration, Customs and military formations, while on the Nigerian side, there is no single security agency.”

WAEC Registrar has no issue with Finance Minister –Management Tunbosun Ogundare

eadquarter office of the West African Examinations Council, WAEC, in Accra, Ghana, has debunked report credited to registrar of the council, Mr. Uyi Uwadiae, claiming the organisation offered Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, free form to re-sit her Senior Secondary School Certificate Mathematics exam, saying the claim is not true. The office in its reaction to the alleged online report through a press statement issued yesterday by Head of Public Affairs Department at the headquarters, Mr. Biodun Aduloju, said there was no iota of truth in the report. But when National Mirror contacted Nigeria’s office of the examination body on phone about the status of WASSCE Mathematics result of the minister in question as a cus-

todian of such result, its Public Relations Officer, Mr. Demianus Ojijeogu, did not answer his call, instead he requested a Short Service Message, which he did not respond to till press time. However, Aduloju said in the statement, that the registrar was not only based in Ghana, he also did not grant any journalist interview on the issue bordering on Adeosun’s claim about examination bodies during her budget defence at the National Assembly. He said the registrar wouldn’t have responded to the report which he said was a figment of the writer to cause altercation between the minister and the registrar to the council, but did so because of the embarrassment it has caused WAEC as a reputable exam body. He argued that the said report was baseless, unfounded and the handiwork of mischief makers and therefore should be disregarded by the public.

He said due to the development, Ogun State government set up a committee to determine the immediate and remote causes of the clashes, adding that it discovered there had been series of requests to the federal

government to provide a long term strategic plan for Itongeji. The lawmaker stressed that given the economic resources and potentials of the island, it was important for the government to establish physical

presence to secure it and end the regular communal unrest and foreign encroachment there. In his reaction, the Minority Leader, Leo Ogor, reiterated that the security and peaceful coexistence of all Nigerians should be of paramount concern as stated in the constitution.

He therefore charged the leadership of the House to do everything possible to address the issue as soon as possible. Also, contributing to the motion, Hon Aminu Shagari said they would not allow the ugly incident to degenerate, saying it was becoming a threat to the sovereignty of the country.

L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market, Sen. Isiaka Adeleke; Director-General, Securities and Exchange Commission, Mr. Mounir Gwarzo; Administrator, National Judicial Institute, Justice Rosaline Bozimo; Representative, Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad and former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Dahiru Musdapher, during Securities and PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA Exchange Commission’s Annual Judges Workshop in Abuja, yesterday.

Tarfa withdraws N5bn suit against EFCC, others Wale Igbintade

n what appears to be a truce between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, embattled Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr. Rickey Tarfa, yesterday withdrew the N5 billion fundamental rights enforcement suit he filed against the commission and four others for alleged violation of his right to privacy. Subsequently, the trial judge, Mohammed Idris, awarded N10,000 cost against Tarfa in favour of the five respondents. The respondents are the EFCC, its Acting Chairman, Ibrahim Magu, Mrs. Rashidatou Abdou, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN) and MTN Nigeria Communications Limited. Tarfa had filed the suit following his arrest on

February 5 by EFCC operatives on the premises of the Lagos State High Court, Igbosere, where he allegedly hid two alleged suspects of the EFCC in his car to prevent their arrest. He claimed that his two mobile phones and Mercedes Benz SUV marked KJA 700 CG, were confiscated by the EFCC. However, in his N5 billion fundamental rights enforcement suit, Tarfa had urged the court to declare that the respondents violated his right to privacy protected by Section 37 of the Constitution, when, without a court order, MTN allegedly made the call log on his mobile line, 08034600000, available to EFCC and other respondents, who in turn allegedly released the information to Sahara Reporters and other online media. The lawyer had also urged the court to hold

that the respondents acted unlawfully when they accessed his bank details, clients’ information, private and confidential information contained in his iPhone 6 and Samsung 6 without a court order or any reasonable cause. He prayed the court to award N5 billion damages against the respondents, stressing that no amount of money could adequately redress the “unquantifiable and irreparable damage done to him, his reputation, his business and his goodwill.” But a lawyer from his chambers, O. Oladele, appeared before Justice Idris yesterday with an ex parte application to discontinue the case. He gave no reason for Tarfa’s decision to withdraw the case. The EFCC lawyers, Mr. Wahab Shittu and Rotimi Oyedepo, who also appeared in court, said they

were not opposed to the withdrawal of the suit but urged the court to award a punitive cost against Tarfa. “My Lord, we have no objection to the discontinuance of the suit but we want the court to award a punitive cost against the applicant; our names have been flying around in the major newspapers since yesterday,” Shittu said. But Oladele argued that EFCC’s lawyers had no right of reply because his application was an ex parte application. Besides, he said the respondents could not be demanding cost because Tarfa had not served them with the suit. But Shittu argued that since the filing of the suit was widely reported in the newspapers, it was tantamount to serving the respondents by substituted means.

South West

Thursday, February 25, 2016

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Ibadan high chief slaps Olubadan-designate’s aide KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

L-R: Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi; President and Chairman of the Council, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Otunba Debola Osibogun and Registrar of the Council, Mr Seye Awojobi, during their courtesy visit to the Governor in Ibadan, yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

Economic recovery: Buhari on track –Ambode FRANCIS SUBERU

agos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, yesterday said President Muhammadu Buhari’s strategy at reviving the ailing economy is on track. Ambode stated this at the State House in Ikeja during a courtesy call on him by Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Nicolas Vervelde, with senior management staff of the company. The governor commended the strategies adopted so far by the president to address the challenges confronting the economy, and solicited the support of all Nigerians in ensuring success of the adminis-

tration’s efforts. He expressed optimism that the foreign exchange crisis plaguing the country that has resulted in naira depreciating considerably against the dollar was solvable, stressing that the country must look inward and embrace massive local manufacturing of products and local ownership of businesses. He said the deficiency Nigeria is currently experiencing as a result of forex challenge was a pointer that all hands need to be on deck in carrying out structural adjustment of the economy and encourage local manufacturing of products needed in Nigeria. Ambode said Nigerian Breweries has shown a very good ex-

ample of encouraging local ownership of businesses, especially with the transformation of Lagos Breweries of the company to a totally Nigerian outfit, urging other foreign investors in the country to follow suit. The governor also restated the commitment of his administration to always create enabling environment for businesses to thrive, especially by placing much priority on the safety of lives and property and improving on infrastructure in the state. Earlier, Vervelde said with the massive efforts being put in place by Ambode, Lagos was now safe and secure for business. “Let me commend you Mr. Governor for the things business owners

and Lagosians are seeing in Lagos. Apapa congestion has been solved; road traffic control has improved and is visible for everybody; it has enhanced safety and of course, those things are very important and conducive for setting up a positive business environment,” Vervelde said. The Nigerian Breweries boss sought the assistance of the governor in looking into the issue of people residing under the bridge behind the Lagos Breweries, saying such might constitute safety and environmental risk. He also invited Ambode to find time to visit the Lagos Breweries which he said has standard state-of-the-art equipment.

he Popoyemoja, Ibadan residence of the Olubadandesignate, High Chief Saliu Adetunji, on Tuesday evening almost turned into a battle field when one of the Ibadan high chiefs and member of the Olubadan-in-Council (names withheld) descended on the media aide to the Olubadan-inwaiting, Mr. Adeola Oloko, and slapped him. National Mirror learnt that the incident had to do with a newspaper report on Monday on the date for coronation of the new Olubadan. It was gathered that Oloko was alleged to have broke the news without the consent of the Olubadan Advisory Council, though he claimed to have consulted with the Olubadan-designate before going ahead to release the statement to that effect. The high chief was said to have thrown caution to the wind by first commanding security operatives in the palace to throw Oloko out of the place, but the directive was ignored. It was further learnt that the high chief had also told Oloko on his way into the palace to move away from the place as he does not want to see him around. However, it was gathered that on his way out, the high chief saw Oloko

standing at the entrance and suddenly dealt him a slap on the face. A source at the palace said the anger of the high chief was borne out of the fact that it is the state government who is expected to announce the coronation day, not just any person. The source said, “You all know Ajimobi for who he is. He doesn’t like anybody performing whatever he thinks is his duty. And the announcement of the coronation day by another person rattled him and he was furious.” The source added further that because of his irrational behaviour, everybody in the palace used to avoid the high chief. “There was a day, a delegation of the National Assembly led by the Deputy Senate Leader, Senator Na-Allah, came to the palace to greet the Olubadan-designate. The Senator innocently sat on a seat beside the Kabiyesi not knowing that the High Chief had laid claim to the seat. Immediately, he came in and saw someone sitting where he usually sat, he shouted on the man to vacate his seat, not knowing he is a Senator and the Deputy Senate Leader for that matter,” the source said. The High Chief, who is said to be too saucy in his dealing with people, was embarrassed when he later learnt the identity of Na-Allah.

N56m theft: Court remands NARV officials in prison custody WALE IGBINTADE

n Ikeja High Court yesterday adjourned till March 21 on the hearing of an application for bail variation of two accused persons, Akinyemi Badejogbin and Olanrewaju Bakare, charged with alleged diversion of fund by the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission, ICPC. The two accused persons were charged before Justice Lateef LawalAkapo in 2015 on 36-count charges bordering on conspiracy, unlawful conver-

sion of funds, theft of N56 million belonging to National Anti-corruption Volunteer Corps, NAVC. They had, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges, and were admitted to bail in the sum of N5 million with two sureties each. The judge also ordered that the sureties deposit N2 million to the court’s Chief Registrar’s account and must own landed property at GRA of the state, while one of the sureties must be a Grade Level 16 officer in any of the state’s ministries, who must be confirmed by the state’s Head of Service.

At the resumed trial of the accused persons yesterday, lawyer to the first accused person, Abimbola Akinlagun, notified the court of her client application for the variation of the bail condition. However, as the trial could not proceed, the trial judge adjourned the matter till March 21, for hearing of the application for the bail variation. They have since been remanded in prison custody. The accused persons, who are coordinator and treasurer of the NACV, Lagos State chapter, were alleged to have committed the alleged criminal

offences at Ketu, Lagos, within Ikeja Judicial Division, between December 2010 and November 28, 2011. Part of the counts brought against the defendants read: That between December 2010 and September 2011, they were said to have allegedly conspired to transfer N55 million from NAVC account number 4110013083 in Fidelity Bank Plc to another NAVC account number 4110013076 in the same bank for the purpose of conferring corrupt advantage on themselves and convert the money to personal use.

The offence is contrary to Section 26(1)(c) and punishable under section 19 of the ICPC Act2000. Another count further alleged that the defendants, within the same period and location transferred N55 million from NAVC Trustees account number 4110013086 in Fidelity Bank to account 4110013076 and subsequently converted the money to personal use. They were also alleged to have used their position to confer corrupt advantage on one’s self contrary to and punishable under section 19 of the ICPC Act 2000. The two accused per-

sons were also alleged to have conspired and stole N800,000, property of NAVC, Lagos State chapter from its trustees account in Fidelity Bank contrary to Sections 516 and 390(8) (b) and punishable under Section 390(9) of the Criminal Code Act Cap 38, Vol. 4 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The ICPC also said Badejogbin and Bakare, being signatories to the trustee account, allegedly stated that they spent N55million on November 28, 2011 on NAVC projects but transferred same from NAVC Trustee account to another account.

South West

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UNILAG to certify 178 first class graduates SAIDAT ALAUSA

Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona (left), with Ogun State Commissioner for Public Complaints Commission, Mrs Oluyemisi Somorin-Dawodu, during her courtesy visit to the Awujale’s Palace in Ijebu-Ode, yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

Police parade 11 robbery suspects, kidnappers, others

...say Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode under FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

leven suspected criminals, who have been terrorising Sagamu and IjebuOde axis were paraded by Ogun State Police Command yesterday. Commissioner of Police, Abdul-Majid Ali, who paraded the suspects at the headquarters of Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, located at Magbon, Abeokuta, explained that two members of a kidnap

syndicate were among the suspects. Parading the suspects, Ali said the kidnappers had abducted a 35-yearold woman (name withheld) from Ejinrin road, Ijebu-Ode, and had already collected N7.5m as ransom before they were arrested by SARS operatives. He said efforts were ongoing to track down other members of the kidnap syndicate. Ali also revealed that four vandals were arrest-

ed at Igbepa in Sagamu Local Government Area of the state, adding that one of the suspects was a guard with a private security company engaged to monitor the pipelines. According to him, SARS operatives, who were acting on tip-off, arrested the four men last Sunday around 9 p.m. According to the commissioner, items recovered from the suspects, included 50 pieces of 50 liters jerry cans fully loaded with petroleum products as well as their

operational vehicle with registration number (LAGOS) KTU 64 XB. While speaking on some arrested pirates, Ali explained that five suspects were arrested at Iyana - Ilogbo in the Ifo area while on their way to Abeokuta, the state capital to hit their target. He said the suspects, who have all confessed to committing the crime, were from the Ilaje clan in Warri, Delta State, while an Igbo man was the receiver of their goods.

NANS tasks govt on Ekiti monarchs’ supremacy tussle ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

ational Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, has warned that the alleged interference of governor of Ekiti State in the supremacy battle between two monarchs in Ikere Ekiti was capable of causing crisis in the ancient town. NANS, while advising the governor to mediate to proffer solution to the volatile issue rather than taking sides, said a crisis that reared its ugly head in the town in the past led to the death of scores of students of the College of Education in the town.

There has been tension in the town following the rivalry between the Ogoga of Ikere, Oba Adejimi Adu, and the Olukere of Ikere, Oba Ganiyu Obasoyin, who are locked in supremacy tussle over who is the authentic monarch in the town, with the governor making categorical statement that Ogoga was the only recognised king. The state’s House of Assembly also on Tuesday said it would attend to the petition by the Olukere seeking recognition as monarch by the state government. The House, however, cautioned the Olukere to stop parading himself as king, a move the Olukere promptly derided, saying

the lawmakers were being “teleguided” by the governor. In a statement in Ado Ekiti yesterday, Chairman of NANS/Joint Campus Committee, Ekiti chapter, Comrade Musa Suraj and his counterpart in the National Council of Yoruba Youths and Students, Comrade Sunday Asefon, appealed to the state government to resolve the long drawn supremacy battle between the two monarchs as a matter of urgency. The students’ leaders appealed to all interested parties “to toe the path of civility by seeking redress in court, rather than making extra-judicial pronouncements”.

NANS specifically condemned the House of Assembly for allegedly issuing a threat to the Olukere to stop parading himself as a king, being a resolution reached at its plenary on Tuesday, saying “such virulent action could further exacerbate the already tensed situation in the town. NANS also condemned the recent students’ unrest in Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti. It cautioned students of tertiary institutions in the state against destruction and called on parents to continue to do their own parts by guiding their wards on how best to behave on campus.

niversity of Lagos, UNILAG, Akoka, would graduate 178 first class students during its 2014/2015 convocation ceremonies scheduled for next week. Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rahamon Bello, disclosed this yesterday during the pre-convocation press conference. He explained that 10,907 would graduate from the 12 faculties of the 53-yearold institution, including the postgraduate school. The vice-chancellor said 5,472 will receive first degrees, while 5,435 will receive postgraduate degrees. “Out of the first degree graduating students, a total of 178 passed in the

first class division, while 1,617 passed in the second class upper degree, 2,496 in second class degrees, 884 in third class, 274 in unclassified degrees in Medical Sciences and Pharmacy and 50 have pass degrees, with faculty of engineering having highest number of first class graduating students,” he said. Also, the university will graduate 71 students with Doctor of Philosophy, PhD degrees in various disciplines, 391 with Post Graduate Diplomas and 4,973 with Masters. Prof. Bello also announced at the event that the best graduating student, Mr. Ayodele Dada of the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, who will be graduating with a CGPA of 5:00.

Customs seize 6,000 litres of petrol bound for Benin Republic KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

yo/Osun Command of the Nigeria Customs Services, NCS, has intercepted and seized over 6,000 litres of petroleum product (Premium Spirit) at Ile-Apena Okeho axis, Oyo State borderline between Nigeria and Benin Republic. Customs Area Controller, Mr. Temitope Ogunkua, who made the disclosure while addressing journalists at the command headquarters, Ibadan, said those behind the illicit trade escaped, but the driver of Toyota Dyna 200 marked XB 307 LEW, in which the fuel was loaded was arrested. According to him, the seizure was made while the

smugglers were attempting to convey the products out of the country. Driver of the truck, who gave his name as Ayo Adeleke, said he was only hired to transport the product to intended destination. The petroleum product was loaded in 202 gallons of 30 litres and covered with thick blanket for concealment. The customs boss then handed the product to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, and was received by Assistant Commander, Mr. Dapo Fasae. Fasae, while receiving the products lauded the customs for assisting in the task of eliminating smuggling and collaborating with other sister security agencies.

Lagos sets record in fight against child abuse AFOLABI GAMBARI

agos State is the first in Nigeria to respond to call by President Muhammadu Buhari to initiate campaigns against violence suffered by children in the society, as Governor Akinwunmi Ambode launched the National Year of Action to End Violence against Children yesterday. The launch, which was also in response to Buhari’s September 15, 2016, deadline to all

the states, was in collaboration with the US Mission in Nigeria, UNICEF and other development partners. “We have a clear moral, legal and economic imperative to end violence against children and we cannot allow the findings or priority actions to remain on paper,” Ambode, who was represented on the occasion held at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos, by t Deputy Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Sanni Eshinlokun, said.

South East

Thursday, February 25, 2016

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S’Court rejects INEC’s application on Anambra PDP crisis Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja

upreme Court of Nigeria yesterday refused to review the judgment it delivered on January 29 on the leadership crisis rocking Anambra State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party,

PDP. The apex court in a ruling delivered by Justice John Okoro, in an application filed by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, seeking the review, clarifications and consequences of the judgment, held that the ruling by its ordinary

meaning did not need to be subjected to any clarification. The court claimed that the judgment was clear and unambiguous as it relates to the leadership of PDP in the state only and not on any other issue that was not brought before the court for adjudication by

affected parties. Besides, the court held that what was brought before it was the issue of leadership of the PDP in the state and not on the implications or consequences of elections that was conducted during the last general election. In the unanimous ruling

L-R: Corporate Affairs Manager, Intafact Beverages Limited (IBL), Mr Chuma Umunna; Board Member, Prof. Chinyere Okunna; General Manager, Mr Lukas Van-Deventer, and Company Secretary, Mr Uche Ibekwe Jnr., during a news conference on Community Relations Investment Oppotunities by IBL at Onitsha, Anambra State, yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

ERC seeks justice at MOUAU over allegation of corruption by VC Saidat Alausa

human rights group, Education Rights Campaign, ERC, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure justice at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, MOUAU, Umudike, Abia State, in relation to allegations of abuse of office, corruption, nepotism and mismanagement leveled by four staff unions against the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Prof. Hilary Edeoga. In a statement signed by the group’s National Coordinator and Secretary, respectively, Hassan Soweto and Michael Ogundele, ERC also demanded the immediate release and public disclosure of the report of a fact-finding committee constituted by the Federal Government at the instance of petitions filed by Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, SSANU, Non Academic Staff Union, NASU, and the National Association of Academic Technologists, NAAT, who

have consistently opposed the anti-worker and undemocratic policies of the VC. “Since the fact-finding committee finished its work after it visited the university, nothing has been heard about its report. The immediate release and public disclosure of the report is important

now, especially considering the fact that Prof. Hilary Edeoga, being the major person in the entire crisis, will conclude his tenure on February 29, 2016. “Before he leaves, the Federal Government owes the university community a duty of revealing whether or not Prof. Edeoga is guilty of the allegations

leveled against him and what punishment would be meted to him and any other officials that may have connived with him to perpetrate all the atrocities,” the statement reads. The group claimed the allegations against Prof. Edeoga are weighty and must therefore not be swept under the carpet.

Okoro also claimed that he could no longer continue due to ill health. The trial, however, suffered several adjournments at the instance of the defendant. During yesterday’s proceedings, prosecution counsel, Mr. Adeniji Adebiyi, brought a forensic expert as witness to analyse some documents already admitted as exhibits before the court. The expert, Mr. Raphael Onwuzurigbo, told the presiding judge, Justice Oluwatoyin Atinuke Ipaye that there were discrepancies in the documents analysed in May 2003, alleging forgery of various documents against Mr. Okoro.

Onwuzurigbo, who narrated how he arrived at his findings, told the judge that he employed a method of Video Spectra Comparator to determine the writing and signatures on documents of subject matter analysed and found out they were not the same. “The handwriting in the relevant column of documents of B1 to B2, B4 to B8 were written by the writer of a specimen handwriting of a document marked X1 to X9,” he said. He added that the handwriting in the relevant column of documents marked as exhibit D3, D9 were not written by the writer of the specimen hand writing of

by the 5-member panel of justices of the court, Justice Okoro said the dispute on whether the certificates of return should be withdrawn from serving lawmakers and given to the list of candidates of the Ejike Oguebego faction was not an issue before the court and that the court never made any pronouncement to that effect. The court also held that by its Order 8, Rule 16, it was expressly stated that the court shall not review its own judgment once delivered, except there is a clerical mistake or slip, which in the instant case, never happened. He held that the request sought by INEC through its lawyer, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, will amount to rewriting the judgment and giving orders where nothing has been shown that there was a clerical mistake. INEC through Awomolo had filed an application, dated 8 February, asking the court to give interpretation, implication and consequences of the judgment delivered on 29January as it relates to the status of the National Assembly members from the state. But the court said the controversy and confusion on the status of the lawmakers was unnecessary because the National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal have determined their status in their various judgments. Justice Okoro said since

$30m fraud: Witness alleges forgery against Augunous Okoro Matthew Irinoye

hirty million dollars fraud involving Augunous Okoro, an alleged accomplice of the late lawmaker, Maurice Ibekwe, yesterday continued at a Lagos State high court. It would be recalled that the duo were on trial for allegedly duping a German National, Klaus Munch, and his firm, System Organisation, to the tune of $30m in 1992. Shortly after the trial commenced in 2003, Ibekwe, then a member of the House of Representatives, died in prison custody, leaving Okoro to continue the trial. Midway into the trial,

documents marked as exhibit X1-to X9. “Signatures on the relevant column of documents marked as exhibit B2, B5, B7 and B10 were not the same with the documents marked X10,” he added. Onwuzurigbo said the exhibit marked P22 before the court dated 4th June 2003 was subjected to scientific and comparative analysis, marked B1 to B10 and X1 to X10. Defence counsel, Mr. Olalekan Ojo however faulted the evidence while crossexamining the expert. He frowned at the witness’ failure to identify the features of his scientific observations.

the Court of Appeal was the final arbiter and had made pronouncement, there was no need to invite the Supreme Court to make any clarification on a concluded matter that was not ambiguous. Besides, Justice Okoro said there was no dispute in the claim of the PDP National Executive Committee that it submitted the list of nominated candidates for National Assembly election to INEC, having conducted the primary election in line with the party’s constitution. The court also stated that the same claim was alluded to by INEC that it accepted the list of nominated candidates for National Assembly election from PDP National Secretariat, being the body vested with power to conduct primary elections for the nomination. Justice Okoro therefore advised lawyers, especially senior ones to always give their clients genuine advice and should not turn themselves to slaves of politicians. Reacting to the ruling, Chief Awomolo said the decision of the court has resolved the blackmail and confusion employed by parties in the case to suit their own individual purposes at the expense of the merit of the case. However, counsel to the Oguebego faction, Chief Chris Uche, SAN, said the ruling has cleared the way for his clients to benefit from the judgment delivered on 29January. Uche said when the Federal High Court gave ruling on the issue, INEC complied immediately without seeking for clarification and that when the appeal court overturned the decision of the high court, the same electoral body complied with the appellate court decision without seeking for any clarification. The counsel wondered why the same INEC has found it difficult to act on the Supreme Court decision of 29 January the way it acted on the decisions of the high court and the court of appeal. He said his clients would press for their benefits from the Supreme Court judgment as appropriately.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South South

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Absence of judge stalls ex-NIMASA boss’ trial rial of former Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Patrick Akpobolokemi, and six other staff of the agency could not go on yesterday due to absence of the trial judge, Raliatu Adebiyi, of a Lagos High Court. However, the case has been adjourned till Monday, February 29, for commencement of trial. Justice Adebiyi had on January 25, when he was arraigned, remanded him and six others in Ikoyi prisons. The judge remanded them after granting the first to fourth defendants bail in the sum of N 20 million each with two sureties each in like sum, while the fifth and sixth defendants were admitted to bail in the sum of N2 million each with two sureties each in like sum. The defendants were arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, over alleged theft of N754,740,680 million belonging to NIMASA. The fresh charge LD/2181C/15 filed before Justice Adebiyi borders on allegations of stealing and forgery preferred against them by the antigraft agency. In the13-count charge, Akpobolokemi was arraigned along with Captain Ezekiel Agaba, Ekene

Nwakuche, Governor Amechee Juan, Vincent Udoye, Captain Adegboyega Sahib Olopoenia and a company, Gama Marine Nigeria Limited. The 1st to 5th defendants Akpobolokemi, Captain Agaba, Nwakuche, Juan, Udoye were alleged to have between October 30, 2014 and May 6, 2015 converted to their personal use N346, 844,680 property of NIMASA released to them for the implementation of Voluntary International Maritime Organisation Member State Audit Scheme, VIMSAS. They were also alleged to have on or about May 28, 2015, with a dishonest intent, converted to their personal use the sum of N257m money released for the implementation of VIMSAS. The defendants were further alleged to have with intent to defraud knowingly forged a document titled “Re: Request for Payment as consultant for VIMSAS Administration Services” dated May 25, 2015 purported to have been issued by Aroward Consulting Limited. The offences were said to be contrary to section 409, 285 (1) of the criminal law of Lagos state 2011. They were also alleged to have forged a document titled: Re: Final Invoice for Consultancy services with respect to the development of VIMSAS Implementation framework, Reviews and Updates” dated April 28, 2015.

“The boats will enable us meet with stiff opposition sea robbery, crude oil theft and other illegalities within the creeks and waterways,” he said. Ibas said plans were on to acquire more patrol vessels to enable the navy maintain constant presence at sea. In his remark, River State governor, Nyesom Wike, said local manufacturing of military hardware would not only create job opportunities for unemployed youths but also improve capacity of local ship manufacturers.

Wike stated that the state government would provide logistic support to ensure the gun boats maintained 24 hours daily presence at creeks and waterways. “The boats will be fully mobilised to ensure that oil theft, sea piracy and other forms of criminality is drastically reduced to help accelerate development in the Niger Delta,” he said. The governor assured that the state government would cooperate with the nation’s armed forces to promote law and order across the state.

WALE IGBINTADE

Mrs Christy Harry inuagurating 60 school seats and desks donated by a National Youth Service Corps member, Dr Olivia Ayozie, (2nd-right) to students of Community Secondary School, Opolo in Yenagoa, yesterday. Left is Principal of the school, Chief Mathias Banogo.

Honour agreement with ex-militants, group urges Buhari JULIUS ONWUMA UYO

x-militants under the aegis of Akwa Ibom Ex-militants Forum have cautioned that hostilities in the Niger Delta may resume if President Muhammadu Buhari fails to honour the amnesty agreement between the Federal Government and militants. The group gave the warning through its spokesman and secretary, Gen. Paul Edoho, during an exclusive interview with our correspondent in Uyo. According to Edoho, the planned termination of the Amnesty programme may lead to reawakening of militancy

in the South-South, as lots of militants are not happy because they have not been trained and given financial benefits in line with the Amnesty agreement. His words, “We have a lot of ex-militants that have not been empowered. Most of the boys have not received their entitlements as their leaders made away with their monies by conniving with some of the banks. “Some of them, their case is in court while some are still battling to see how to get their monies. How will you end the amnesty programme without them benefiting; do you think they will be happy? They will fall back and show that old

soldier is still a soldier; he is retired but never tired. The boys can take to arms again as they would see the government as not fulfilling the agreement.” He said the agreement, which was orchestrated by the administration of the late President Musa Yar’Adua, did not only reduce restiveness significantly, but also restored peace to the Niger Delta region. The spokesman of the group stressed that the Amnesty agreement if not followed strictly as stipulated may affect the harmonious relationship between the Federal Government and repentant militants. However, Edoho commended the Akwa Ibom

State government for contributing to the capacity and economic development of ex-militants in the state by taking a cue from the federal government by training and empowering them. On crime incidents in the waterways of Akwa Ibom, the ex-militant leader charged Governor Udom Emmanuel to collaborate with the forum as it has the capacity to efficiently police the waterways. He also urged the federal and state governments to give them the opportunity to contribute their quota to societal development as many of them boast the requisite capacity to do so.

CDS reads riot act to N’Delta militants D ENNIS NAKU

PORT HARCOURT

hief of Defence Staff, Gen. Abayomi Olonisakin, yesterday said operatives have been placed on alert to tackle any militant attack in the Niger Delta. Olonisakin stated this during the inauguration of 25 locally-built gunboats donated to troops of the Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Pathfinder, in Port Harcourt on Wednesday. He said the military was currently assessing the situation in the

Niger Delta with a view to maintaining law and order there. He explained that Nig eria cannot tolerate any criminal behaviour by individuals or g roups, especially at a period the nation was f aced with serious economic downtur n. “T he Defence (Headquar ters) is up and doing, and we want to war n them (militants) that the military will not take it lightly in cases of disturbances. “Any threat by them will be met with appropriate military action.

“We have directed our troops to be on red alert as well as ensure that criminals and vandals, who sabotage national assets, are brought to book,” he said. Olonisakin expressed optimism the 25 gunboats newly acquired by the Nigerian Navy would drastically reduce oil theft, sea piracy and other forms of illegalities in the nation maritime environment. Also, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Ibok-Ekwe Ibas said the navy employed the services of local engineers to construct the 25 gun boats to save cost and cut

capital flight. Ibas said President Muhammadu Buhari had approved local construction of additional 50 security patrol boats to be delivered in the coming months. According to him, the gun boats which had reached advanced stages of completion would be fitted with ant-ballistic protection and latest technology. “Delivery of the additional 50 gun boats will ensure that the nation’s backwaters are saturated with patrol boats for improved security of our maritime domain.

North

Thursday, February 25, 2016

26 states owe corps members allowance –DG James Danjuma, Katsina

bout 26 states are yet to pay backlog of allowances to serving and completed youth corps members. Some of these states owe such corps members up to two years of unpaid allowances. Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Johnson Olawumi, who stated this yesterday in Katsina State, described the situation as disheartening and a challenge to the scheme. Olawumi disclosed this during the opening ceremony of NYSC 2016

Batch ‘A’ Pre-Orientation Workshop at the conference hall of the state secretariat. He said failure by states to pay monthly allowance to corps members didn’t portray a good image, as the allowance was a statutory responsibility. He said with continued neglect to pay such allowance, the scheme may have no option than to bring to public attention states that are defaulting on the matter. “I wish to once again appeal to the state governments to passionately consider the welfare of corps members in their employ by ensuring prompt pay-

ment of their state allowances for transport and accommodation. “As at today, about 26 states owe corps members’ state allowance, with some owing as much as two years. “This does not portray a good image of the states involved as corps members’ welfare provision is a statutory responsibility of the state governments. “The scheme may have no choice than to bring to public attention such states,” he added. The DG said another issue facing smooth operation of the scheme was the rejection of corps mem-

bers by employers. Johnson said rather than reject corps members, “employers should utilise the services provided them to add value to their operations in order to achieve their mandates.” He lamented appalling condition of some orientation camps, even as he called on state governments to pay “more attention to provision and maintenance” of camps in their states. Governor Aminu Bello Masari, represented by his deputy, Mannir Yakubu, expressed commitment to giving priority to the welfare of corps members.

Gombe State Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo (second right) inspecting ongoing township roads project in Gombe metropolis, yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

Cultists kill two in Ilorin Wole Adedeji, Ilorin

here was confusion in Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, when a National Diploma II student was shot dead in front of the school’s administrative office. The student (name withheld), said to belong to a cultist group, was attacked by a rival gang said to have been on his trail to avenge the killing of one Bayo Ajia, a notorious cultist cum politician killed last month in the state capital. Also, a commercial motorcyclist was shot dead yesterday at Oke-Odo area of Tanke on the way to

University of Ilorin campus where most of the offcampus students reside. Sources said the deceased was killed by his passenger, who allegedly lynched him for reasons not yet clear as at press time, according to the police, who said they were still investigating the crime. The polytechnic killing comes on the heels of the passage of an executive bill seeking prohibition of secret cults in the state brought by Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed to the House of Assembly in view of the growing cult attacks, leading to the death of scores of people, especially students in re-

cent time. The House had passed the bill titled, ‘Secret Cults and Secret Societies in Kwara State (Prohibition bill) 2016 for passage into law. The bill had said the increase in the activities of cultists and secret societies in the state, which according to the governor, led to attendant loss of lives and properties and uneasiness in the populace, made the bill very pertinent. The bill which seeks to repeal the Secret Societies and Cults (Prohibition) law No 15 of 2013 is to pave way for more effective and stringent provisions to curb the menace in the state.

Meanwhile, the body of the killed student has been deposited at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, UITH. Further information on the killing indicated that after shooting the deceased dead from a distance, the gunmen grabbed the body, firing several shots to the head to ensure he was dead before taking to their heels. National Mirror was told that the polytechnic security guards on duty quickly alerted the police that immediately dashed to the campus, but came after the assailants had left. The police thereafter moved the corpse to the mortuary, the source add-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Vet foreigners for Zika virus –Reps • 3.2m people living with HIV/AIDS –Ombugadu George Opara, Abuja

ouse of Representatives has urged the Nigerian Immigration Service, NIS, to vet foreigners entering the country for Zika virus in order to protect the health of Nigerians. The lawmakers also called on NIS to partner with the Federal Ministry of Information to embark on massive sensitisation programme to educate Nigerians to understand the dangers of the deadly disease. This followed a unanimous motion adopted under matters of urgent public importance sponsored by Rep Emeka Anohu. “It is imperative for those responsible to undertake and initiate proactive measures to vet foreigners coming into the country. “Especially those coming in from countries where this deadly virus is already present, in order to protect the health, safety and security of Nigerians. “The poor state of the primary health care facilities in Nigeria, which is already struggling to contain the recent outbreak of Lassa fever, will be over-stretched further with the added threat of

ed. When contacted, registrar of the polytechnic, Pastor Moses Salami, confirmed the development. He added that both the police and men of the Department of Security Service, DSS, were on the lookout for the killers. “It is true that after the staff closed for work on Monday around 7.30pm, we learnt that one ND2 student was shot dead and the police were immediately alerted,” he said. Also contacted, the state’s Police Public Relations Officer, Ajayi Okasanmi, confirmed the development, stating however that he was yet to be officially briefed as at press time.

Zika virus,’’ Anohu said. Speaker, House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, therefore, mandated the Committee on Health care Services to interface with the Ministry of Health to commence research on Zika virus. ``This is with a view to finding the cure of same and report back to the House within four weeks for further legislative action,’’ Dogara said. Similarly, the House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Malaria Control said that N57 billion would be required to tackle the HIV scourge in the country. Chairman of the Committee, Dave Ombugadu, said this when he presented the 2016 budget defence reports of Ministries Departments and Agencies under the committee to the Appropriation Committee. He expressed concern that N1.5 billion only was provided for HIV/AIDS activities to NACA under the 2016 budget proposal. “This is a significant reduction from the N10 billion given to it last year to provide comprehensive HIV/AIDS services in Taraba and Abia states under the defunct SURE-P programme. “Nigeria and the rest of the global AIDS Community have adopted the 90-90-90 target by 2030 and to achieve this, the government of Nigeria has to put money into the national response to AIDS. “Otherwise we will have another wave of HIV/AIDS epidemic in the country. “It is with this great concern that the Chairman is requested to approve the additional sum of N25 billion to NACA,’’ he added. Ombugadu in his analysis of cost of treating People Living with HIV/ AIDS, PLWHA, said it costs N31,243 to treat a patient per annum. According to him, the estimated number of people living with HIV/AIDS is 3,200,000.

Thursday, February 25, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Day Ndoma-Egba, Ebri, others formally dumped PDP for APC 15

Taraba rerun: PDP victory, confirmation of Ishaku’s acceptability —PDP chieftain Justin Tyopuusu JALINGO

chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Taraba state, Mr. Dennis Orkuma Nev has said the overwhelming victory of the party in the last weekend rerun in the state was a confirmation that Governor Darius Ishaku and the PDP are widely accepted by the people. Nev, a retired Permanent Secretary, Government House Administration, stated this in an exclusive interview with National Mirror in Jalingo. The PDP chieftain noted that the victory of the PDP in the rerun election in the state has again demonstrated that the people of Taraba actually voted for PDP during last year’s general elections in the state. “Taraba has been a PDP

state since 1999 and will continue to be by the grace of God. This victory we got at the weekend has vindicated us before the doubting Thomases that Taraba people voted for Governor Darius Ishaku and our other candidates that won elections. “PDP is on ground in Taraba and it will take time and extra ordinary force to uproot PDP in Taraba. The governor is on right track and is working assiduously to bring peace to the state and to pave way for development and Tarabans are seeing results. “It’s not all about propaganda, but it’s about serving people and doing what they want. Our governor is aware of this and is doing his best. If elections are conducted 20 times in Taraba, PDP will still win, because we know it’s not about party alphabets, but

it’s about people,” he said. He congratulated the governor over his recent victory at the Supreme Court and all the legislators who won their rerun

elections and urged them to put the past behind them and work to better the living standard of all irrespective of party affiliations.

Nev enjoined those in opposition to consider the interest and development of Taraba above their personal interest and work with the governor to have

a Taraba that all would be proud of, saying as an architect, Ishaku was poised to redesign Taraba and bring development to the state.

Lalong swears-in new chairman for Jos East LGA James Abraham JOS

lateau state Governor, Simon Lalong has sworn -in Dr Samuel Ibrahim Pate as the new Management Committee chairman of Jos East Local Government Area of the state. Pate’s appointment which was earlier confirmed by the resolution of the House of Assembly came barely three months after Dr. Hosea Azi, the immediate past Management Committee Chairman of the LGA passed on to glory in the course of duty, in an unfortunate fatal motor accident at Garaku in Nasarawa state Performing the swearing-in ceremony at the Government House in

Jos, the Governor said Pate was considered for the position having satisfied the requirement of community acceptability and inclusive representation in line with the change mantra of his Rescue Administration in the State. The Governor charged the new appointee to maintain the highest level of discipline and work ethics, anchored on professionalism, discipline and responsible management of resources, so as to better the lot of the people as part of his value addition to good governance. He also called on the people of the locality to cooperate with the new Chairman and his team to enable them succeed.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (r), welcoming the Chairman of Afenifere Renewal Group, Mr Olawale Oshun to his office, during a courtesy call by members of the group at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, yesterday.

Justin Tyopuusu JALINGO

member of the House of Representatives, representing Kurumi/Gashaka/ Sadauna Federal constituency in the National Assembly, Danasabe Hosea has said that an independent revenue monitoring agency in the country will promote accountability and better the country’s economic profile. He stated this yesterday in Jalingo while reacting to his victory in the last Saturday’s rerun election conducted across 19 polling units in his constituency.

Lawmaker advocates separate agency for revenue monitoring Hosea noted that the country generates a lot of revenue from sources other than oil but there was no independent monitoring of the process which makes so much money generated from revenue end in private pockets. “Nobody paid attention to this ugly trend because we were making money from oil. Now that the prices of crude oil has dropped drastically, the economy is in dire need of survival. We must closely monitor

our revenue to help reposition our economy. “I was working on a bill for the establishment of an independent revenue monitoring agency that would monitor the activities of revenue generating agencies to ensure proper accountability and prompt remittance of revenue to the government before the court ordered rerun and I will see it passed as I am going back,” he said. The lawmaker commended Independent

National Electoral Commission, INEC, security agencies and other stakeholders for the free, fair and credible rerun elections conducted in the state. He commended the people for re-affirming their support for him through the ballot by coming out en masse to vote for him in the rerun and promised to work to improve on education, health and other physical infrastructure in the constituency.

Politics

Thursday, February 25, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Corporate Assembly: Stimulating improved economic development in Lagos Robert Awokuse

promotion of sustainable commercial and industrial growth through improved business support policies and infrastructure is fundamental to the socio-economic development of any state, and this has been the position of Lagos State. Lagos quest to become mega city has been further motivated following a recent plan unveiled by the governor; Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode at the 5th Lagos Corporate Assembly tagged “A plus Meetings Business” held last week with members of the business community. Lagos, the commercial nerve of Africa and the number one destination point of business attraction with over 22 million people could not have had a better development but best with the present administration led by Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, who has consolidated on his predecessor’s legacies in a bid to taking the state of aquatic splendor to a more enviable position. The meeting, which was the first in Ambode’s administration, focused on issues that were considered germane and of economic importance to the development of the state. The issues covered stable power, good transport system, empowerment of Small and Medium Enterprises, SMEs, moderation of fees charged by regulatory agencies, incidence of harassment in real estate by traditional land owners among others. Speaking on the issues, the governor said that for the state to grow into a mega city all hands must be on deck and efforts were being put in place to improve the state infrastructure, just as he hinted that his government would by 2017 ensure a constant power supply in the state as the state is working with relevant agencies to achieve the feat. He noted that moves are on the way by the Ministry of Energy, Mineral Resources through a thoroughly bred cluster of plans to ensure that the mission is accomplished. Energy and Mineral Resources Commissioner, Mr. Olawale Oluwo also confirmed that the task would be met, but added that it would be a gradual process which would begin from few areas and subsequently permeate to all places in the state. He however stressed that Lagosians must have to sacrifice by paying their bills promptly and regularly. A major discourse which readily calls for urgent address however is the deplorable conditions of some roads in the state and the perennial traffic gridlock characterised by most of the roads. It is averred in many quarters that a safe and efficient transport system is the cornerstone of modern civilisation following its enormous economic and social impacts and consequences. A likely effect of this is noted on the cost and standard of living as it affects the pricing of the exchange of goods and services. Also, if a good transport system is in place, incidents of mortalities arising from road traffic accidents will be reduced and potentially translates to a better life expectancy and preservation of the human capital capacity. Following the need to address problems associated with transport system in the state, the governor has therefore promised that the rail project that runs from Mile 2 to CMS would be completed before December this year as part of measures to facilitate quick business services by checkmating perennial traffic congestions in the state. This followed torrents of complaints lodged by stakeholders in business transactions within CMS, Apapa and Mile 2 axis who are constantly subjected to traffic gridlock in the area. Some of the complainants who aired their voices during presentations at the event, lamented the situation of the roads, which according to them is inhibiting not only the economic growth of the area but also those who are directly and indirectly involved in the use of the area. In her submission, the President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, Chief (Mrs) Nike Akande

L – R: Mr. Olalekan Akodu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives; Prince Rotimi Ogunleye, Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Industry & Cooperatives: Hon. Oladele Adekanye, Chairman, House Committee on Commerce, Industry & Cooperatives and Chief (Mrs.) Nike Akande, President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the 5th Lagos Corporate Assembly held recently in Alausa, Ikeja.

Ambode noted the importance of private sector contributions to the economic development of the state and harped that the need to ensure free-flow of traffic, especially in Apapa area of the state was imperative, as the area is a major economic boost to Lagos and Nigeria. She stressed the urgent need to clear cargoes at the ports, suggesting that the rail system be revamped to ease traffic congestion in the area as most of the goods would be evacuated through the rail as an alternative to road. In his presentation, Chairman Apapa Branch of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, MAN, Mr Faloranmi Odunayo expressed dissatisfaction over the deplorable state of the roads in Tin Can Island and Apapa trailer park which according to him is a nightmare to business folks and residents. He lamented the activities of the container-carrying trailers, which on several occasions have provoked gory accidents in the area, as many of the trailers usually have their containers fall on smaller vehicles, resulting in deaths of the occupants. Odunayo noted that the reason for the situation was because there are no adequate link roads in and out of the area. He recalled that on many occasions when meetings are fixed at the secretariat in Apapa many of their members avoid such meetings because of the traffic gridlock. In the same vein, Berger-Ibafo-Mowe road which has in recent time recorded high traffic congestion following proliferation of religious activities in the axis was brought to attention. But the governor said the traffic on that road was as a result of markets and parks situated at the same spot, hence the gridlock. He however maintained that an alternative route would be provided from Agic, Ishawo areas of Ikorodu to serve as access to those coming from Ibafo to Ikorodu. Similarly, the governor reiterated commitment to tackle unemployment through adequate support for Small and Medium Enterprises to thrive by providing them friendly envi-

ronment to operate. He noted that SMEs are the largest employers of labour hence if supported they would engage many youths and artisans. To achieve this, he said that “We have also established the ministry of wealth creation so that we can tackle the issue of unemployment and talk of labour issues. The establishment of employment trust fund is to create a fund that can inject 6.25 billion in a year to that fund on the part of the government and also national money for support group and the private sector. But the essence itself is to inflate the economy and inject capital for greater participation of SMEs and the youths and the artisans generally. “We are in a meeting with the central bank to set up a micro finance bank to meet our needs on SMEs”, he said. Reacting on the traffic gridlock in Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, Ambode said that as much as he would have loved to tackle the problem, the areas are not within his ambit to exercise powers in order to bring succour to the affected people, but added that he would seek collaboration with the federal government to ameliorate the situation. “I want to say that Lagos is the melting pot where all these issues affect and we need to look at things nationally. “Traffic gridlock in Apapa and Tin Can Island is more about federal government than us but it is about Lagosians. So there is need for collaboration. If I have 1.5 billion naira to give to the contractor I will do so because it will make life more comfortable for people at Apapa. But the road has to be fixed, it is about the comfort of our people,” he concluded. The governor maintained that the need to focus on other means of transportation such as water and rail became imperative, as a state with over 22 million people could not afford to have just one means of transportation. Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Prince Rotimi Ogunleye said the occasion was worthwhile as it has been a useful public–private engagement vehicle, through which the state government and the business community interact and discuss issues that are germane to the state’s industrial growth. “The promotion of commercial and industrial growth of the State has been the focus of this Assembly. As the engine room and hub of industrial development, Lagos State recognises that a wholesome operating environment is the key to job creation, poverty eradication and overall economic development of the State. Therefore, the State Government will continue to ensure collaboration between it and the organised private sector, O.P.S, not only to sustain the existing level of industrialization but also to accelerate the momentum of its development. “The Corporate Assembly is a veritable platform that enables Government to feel the pulse of the business community. This all-important parley has so far resolved a number of issues affecting businesses in the State”, he said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Richard Ndoma CALABAR

Politics

Thursday, February 25, 2016

enultimate Saturday was a day of reckoning for the ruling Peoples Democratic Party , PDP in Cross River State as several of its leaders defected to the main opposition party, the All Progressive Congress, APC. The movement was so massive to the extent that those who are sympathetic to the PDP began to ask what went wrong with the once revered and exalted party in the State. The day was the day the defectors were formally welcome into the APC . Former Senate Leader, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba and Senator Prince Bassey Otu were the arrow heads of the mega event that formalized their movement into their new party, Ndoma - Egba SAN while speaking at the well attended event marking their departure from PDP to APC said the welcoming of the former PDP chieftains in the state into the APC fold by the APC National leadership will cause no harm to the party but instead their membership into the APC will only help to strengthened the APC in Cross River state. He said that what Cross Riverians had just experienced is to further rejuvenate the party and make provision for an alternative platform for the people to participate in politics particularly those who he said were either rejected or evicted from the PDP saying APC can afford them an alternative platform to further their political life. Ndoma -Egba who was surrounded by thousands of his supporters said, “This is an event where the top hierarchy of the APC like Chief John Odigie - Oyegun and the National Working Committee of the APC is welcoming some political bigwigs who were either ejected or evicted from the PDP into its fold” “This isa formal welcome by the top hierarchy of the party though some people described us as decampees, we are not decampees but people who were shut out or evicted from the PDP .The heart and soul who had long been ejected from the PDP and others like former Governor of Cross River State , Dr.Clement Ebri who had never joined the party before are also being welcomed into the APC” Ndoma-Egba said. The former Senate Leader maintained that they are going into the party not to intimidate or oust old members from the party instead to invigorate, energized and create an alternative platform for the people of Cross River state to unite for the progress of the Country adding that, the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria had given them the right as a people to associate with one another or with any groups. Ndoma Egba said that impunity and lack of internal democracy were the issues that made him and his supporters to leave the PDP and join the APC. The APC National Chairman, Chief John OdigieOyegun described the new members as people of ‘high caliber’, noting that their presence would indeed usher in the desired change in the politics of Cross River State, nay Nigeria. But one of the aides to Ndoma-Egba and governorship aspirant in the 2015 Cross River state gubernatorial election, Chief Francis Bullem said he left the PDP on the basis of ideological differences which has become “mania” fashion of the time, stressing that he was just tired of compromising his political ideologies, beliefs and values with what the PDP had turned itself to. To Bullem, such blunder was enough for him to quit the party. Worst still he said was the current leadership style of the party where the leadership would say one thing and does the contrary. He said part of his grouse was that the leadership of the party even handpicked people in one’s political domain to deal with issues of governance without even bordering to give recognition to party men who had worked relentlessly and wasted their scarce resources to make sure that the party becomes formidable. Such loyal party men he said were never given recognition or either given a privilege for his supporters to make the list of commissioners or Special Assistants, Special Adviser s or get any government appointments

Day Ndoma-Egba, Ebri, others formally dumped PDP for APC

Ndoma-Egba

Bullem

Ndoma Egba said that impunity and lack of internal democracy were the issues that made him and his supporters to leave the

PDP and join

the

APC.

saying such a development degenerated to breeding of bad blood among the party faithful in the area. To him, all these was not and never in consonance with the kind of political ideology which he holds or plays stressing that he was left with no other option than to move to the APC because he find it difficult to comprehend what the leadership of the PDP is doing with the structures of the party in the state. Bullem maintained that quitting the PDP to him is one of the wisest decision that he had ever taken. He said that the PDP had become a big burden adding that, leaving PDP has taken the burden off his shoulders, explaining that his decision to dump PDP was hinged on the insensitivity of the state government to address certain urgent issues of public importance. “My decision to go to the APC with my supporters is the best decision we have taken in time like this. We know the implication of the decision especially as the governor and I hail from the same senatorial district. Bullem averred that as a leader and a politician, there is nothing as bad as not satisfying what the people you represent, the people who believe in you want. “So it is better for people to know that I am not part of this government in the state than to appear very big as somebody who can add to the development of the state yet I am not given a privilege to fit in where I am supposed to fit in so as to speak for my teeming supporters Cross River state had always been known to be a

stronghold of the PDP since the advent of democracy in 1999 and this made it possible for the PDP to take charge of all the juicy elective positions both at State and at the National level. Among those that left the PDP for APC include Leader of the Seventh Senate, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, former Governor Imoke`s Chief of Staff, Dr.Alex Egbona, Chief Wilfred Inah, a former Federal Commissioner in the Federal Character Commission and one time head of service in the old Cross River State, former Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance and Banking, Senator Prince Bassey Otu ; Chief Francis Bullem, Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo former Executive Secretary National Planning Commission and PDP governorship aspirant; former governor of Cross River State, Dr.Clement Ebri, Barr.Johnson Ebokpo, former Secretary to the State Government, SSG; former NNPC General Manager, Crude Marketing, Godwin Jeddy Agba; gubernatorial aspirant in 2015 polls, former PDP National Publicity Secretary and Commissioner for works, Mr.Vena Ikem and thousand of their supporters. A political analyst, Noble Nsan who spoke on the defection of bigwigs from the PDP to the APC blamed the PDP for its woes stressing that it was the PDP that bewitched itself. “That the PDP shot itself on the leg when it allowed some “top notch and heavy weight” and influential politicians like Senator Victor Ndoma- Egba who could command respect and at least talk to several others nursing ambition to leave the party to stay, quit the party with several of his supporters with no overtures thrown on him to return to the fold. However, political observers said that the gale of defection from the PDP has put the long term future of the PDP in the state in jeopardy. The cause of the defections, analysts say, may not be unconnected with the widespread disenchantment and dissatisfaction with the leadership style of both the state governor , Prof. Ben Ayade and his predecessor , Senator Lyel Imoke who were accused of being dictatorial in the way and manner in which they run the affairs of the state.

Politics

Thursday, February 25, 2016

APC stalled bail-out balance to cripple Ekiti —PDP Abiodun Nejo ADO EKITI

he Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Ekiti State has accused the All Progressives Congress, APC of being behind the seizure of the balance of the bail-out requested by the state from the Federal Government. The PDP, which said that only N9.6 billion was released to Ekiti State out of N29 billion requested, accused the Federal Government of playing the script of the APC by financially crippling the PDP-governed state. PDP State Publicity Sec-

retary, Mr. Jackson Adebayo, said in a statement in Ado-Ekiti that “it is evident that Ekiti State is particularly marked for this financial punishment to prepare ground for the 2018 governorship election in the state”. The PDP spokesman, who said the opposition party leaders were plotting to unsettle the state, challenged the APC leadership “to come out open on the agenda of their various meetings which they had been holding outside the state whether it had not been on how to pull the state down in the name of politics”.

The PDP maintained that in all the meetings, the business of the leaders of the opposition APC in the state had been the concoction of lies and setting grounds for Federal Government to cut allocation to the state and withhold any other right and privilege due to the state as well. “We want to alert the public that in all the meetings of the APC leaders they have not been discussing the progress of the state, rather they have preoccupied themselves with the business of how Ekiti State government will not be able to meet its obligations again in terms of regular payment

of salaries and furtherance of the populist projects it has embarked upon. “They have approached President Muhammadu Buhari and other notable leaders of their party on this matter,” he said. PDP requested the people of the state to ask the APC leaders why they’ve always been critics of all the projects both completed, ongoing and proposed by the current government, asserting that “due to the unpatriotic agenda of the leaders of the APC, they would prefer that Ekiti should be reversed rather than being developed by the present PDP government”.

Protest against the non-conduct of local government elections in Onitsha, Anambra, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Tejuoso advocates more local contents on pay TV Olubunmi Omoogun

he Senator representing Ogun Central senatorial district in the National Assembly, Senator Prince Lanre Tejuoso has clamoured for more local contents on pay satellite television in Nigeria. He made this assertion at Tuesday’s Senate plenary in a senate motion on concern on unwholesome practices by Multi-choice Nigeria (DSTV). Senator Tejuoso said “The football programme on DSTV is more of international matches showing English Premier League teams like Chelsea and Arsenal. I can’t remember see-

plains. Tejuoso said “ We just have to allow competition, so everybody can enjoy pricing policy that is favourable to everybody. We need to protect the interest and rights of Nigerians”.

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Bill to regulate land grabbing passes second reading Robert Awokuse

bill for a law to prohibit forcible entry and occupation of landed properties, violent and fraudulent conducts in relation to landed properties has sailed through its second reading at the Lagos State House of Assembly. The lawmakers waded into the travails of Lagosians in the hand of land grabbers, whose inimical conducts is taking a negative toll on the economic and social status of the state. Majority Leader, Hon. Sanai Agunbiade, who moved a motion that a private member bill cosponsored by Hon. Oshinowo and him be read the second time on the floor, citing the fact that the bill ought to have become law in the seventh Assembly. The bill for a law to prohibit forceful entry and occupation of landed properties, violent and fraudulent conducts of land grabbers was said to be a necessity. The proposed bill seeks to quell the tension created by land grabbers, who maim and injure Lagosians which amounts to economic loss and thrown the state into a war zone. It is also set to accentuate criminalization of the forceful occupation of landed properties. Contributing on the floor of the House, lawmakers were passionate on the timeliness of the bill. Hon. Abiodun Tobun, Epe I Constituency and the Chairman Works and Infrastructure, stated that “the land grabbers activities will be kept

at bay with the law in place.” Hon. Tunde Buraimoh Kosofe Constituency noted that the bill was long overdue, as it has been a source of concern that land grabbing is a menace to Lagos, hence the bill was very necessary. Also contributing, Hon. Jude Idimogu, Oshodi/Isolo Constituency said: “It is a timely bill, my constituency is worse hit as, land grabbing is a common feature there and I have had to go and bail people from the police station, it is painful I went through a lot there.” Hon. Olayiwola Abdul Subour, Mushin II on his own noted that the bill was an all -encompassing as laws on landed matter are fractionalized and the 1976 land use act decree was not helpful, hence the need for the passage of the bill. The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa faulted the law enforcement agents for conspiring with land grabbers to fleece Lagosians. According to him, “The law enforcement agency has been compromised, they many a time pick you from Lagos to Abuja, forced to write an undertaking and warned not to claim any right on the property. “I was also a victim even as Speaker let alone the less privileged who are most times vilified, as perpetrators get away with the act. That informs why it persists. “We call on the police to try and be just because it is evident that they work in consonance with the land grabbers”, he said.

ing Enyimba,3SC, Sunshine stars, Gateway FC and others, the way we see the English Premier League football clubs”. The Senate also frowns at the domination of the Nigerian satellite television

market by DSTV thereby enabling it to engage in negative and unhealthy trade practices and unreasonable subscription hikes across their various bouquets which have led to monopoly and growing public com-

Wale Ibrahim

Group laments political wrangling in Kogi

LOKOJA

Group, Kogi Patriots, KP has expressed concern over the current political wrangling rocking the state House of Assembly. The group has therefore called on President Muhammadu Buhari and other well meaning Nigerians to find urgent solution to the present political logjam in Kogi state to prevent the

breakdown of law and order in the state. The group made this known in a statement signed by its Director of Publicity, Dr Kabiru Ahmed, a copy of which was made available to journalists in Lokoja. It frowned at the impeachment saga rocking the state House of Assembly noting that it does not

help the growth and development. “The sad political development in Kogi arising from the wrong emergence of Alhaji Yahaya Bello as the governor of the state and impeachment of the speaker of the state House of assembly, Alhaji JimohMomoh Lawal needed urgent intervention in order to save the state from slid-

ing into anarchy”, the statement added. The group also faulted the clearance of Hon. Simon Achuba as the deputy governor of the state describing the action as illegal. The statement fingered the state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello as being behind the latest impeachment crisis at the state assembly.

Bello

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Thursday, February 25, 2016

Museveni and his march of infamy CRITICAL STROKES

KAYODE

KETEFE

kketefe@nationalmirroronline.net 08032147720 (SMS only)

o the whole world, Africa has become an easy reference point when it comes to irresponsible and bad governance. Sentiments apart, most western stereotypes concerning Africa in the area of self-governance are not without foundations. Africans continually throw up eccentricities that underscore the theory that they cannot rule themselves. As a matter of fact, you can exhaust all the synonyms in the thesaurus semantically revolving around senseless leadership and they will fit perfectly with the Dark Continent’s tradition. Only last week, one of the continent’s sittight leaders, Yoweri Museveni, a 71 year old dictator ruling over Uganda, claimed to have won that country’s presidential election once again and thus landed a fifth term to continue his despotism. The man who began his political career as a popular President, had launched a most comprehensive assault on the opposition in the period leading to the election. The leader of opposition Dr. Kizza Besigye, had been arrested for about three times and was briefly detained just before the election. Several opposition figures were

arrested, tortured and humiliated while others were thrown into detention. In fact, Museveni turned the state police into a terror machine to muscle opposition’s courage and deflate its spirit. Few months ago, the whole civilized world was shocked when a female human rights activist, Ms Zaina Fatuma, was publicly humiliated. Ms Fatuma, a member of the National Executive Committee of the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), was stripped totally naked and manhandled while being arrested by police at Kanyaryeru in Kiruhura. She was on the entourage of the opposition leader on the way to a political rally when their vehicle was waylaid. Narrating her ordeal, she said even after she succumbed to the arrest and willingly agreed to follow the police the latter insisted in stripping her naked as a punitive measure. According to the result released by the tele-guarded Uganda’s electoral body, Museveni polled 60 percent votes ahead of Besigye who was credited with 35 percent of the votes. Not a few believed that this was a doctored result. This is not even withstanding the fact that a large segment of the electorate from areas of influence of the opposition had been systematically disenfranchised. As a matter of fact, when the results were being announced, stern-looking, gun-toting and bloody-thirsty state policemen had surrounded Dr. Besigye’s house. Last week’s election had been variously condemned by international observers as being marred with fundamental irregularities. Besigye and his supporters claimed that the election was massively rigged. The Unit-

IT IS REALLY SAD THAT EXAMPLES OF GOOD

LEADERSHIP IN AFRICA ARE VERY SCARCE ed States criticized the election on the grounds of serious irregularities and stated that “the election was deeply inconsistent with international standards and expectations for any democratic process.” The European Union said the election “was lacking in openness and transparency”. Other international observers raised concerns over heavyhanded treatment of the opposition by the police before and during the election. But Museveni would have none of that. In his hubristic pomposity, he dismissed the criticisms thus: “I don’t need lectures from anybody. Those Europeans are not serious. Anybody who is trying to challenge the results of this election must not be serious.” Therefore, the despot is poised to extend his over three decades in power and continue the tradition of African woeful leaders like Idi Amin, Jean Bedel Bokassa, Houphet Boigny, Robert Mugabe, Samuel Doe, Sani Abacha, Mobutu Sese Seko, Hosni Mubarak, Muamar Ghadafi and Laurent Gbagbo. It is really sad that examples of good leadership in Africa are very scarce. Scarcer are the leaders who would voluntarily relinquished powers. Concerning the latter one may speak in glowing

terms of President Rupiah Banda of the Movement for Multi-party Democracy in Zambia. He was the incumbent President when the opposition, led by Mr. Michael Chilufya Sata, defeated him in a Presidential election held on September 20, 2011. In spite of the fact than the election was keenly contested, with Banda being only outstripped by a mere five percent of the total votes cast, Banda was not only ready to transfer power, he did so with a spirit free from rancour and bitterness. Banda congratulated his conqueror, and with endearing magnanimity, said, “Now it is time for me to step aside. Now is the time for a new leader. My time is done. It is time for me to say goodbye. I urge you all now to rally behind your new president, nay, our new president, we may have different ideas but we both want the same thing - a better Zambia”. With these moving words, which project a spirit very rare among African leaders, Banda who had only spent three years and three months in office, surrendered to the will of the people. His conduct shows a virtue worthy of commendation, and more importantly, emulation. Last year, our own compatriot, President Goodluck Jonathan also showed example of good leadership by peacefully abdicating Aso Rock for his opponent, after being defeated in the presidential election. Unfortunately, the trend proved episodic. The recent development in Uganda has continued to nurture the stereotype being held about African governance. Ketefe may be followed on twitter @Ketesco

On Amnesty International and the Nigeria Army PHILIP AGBESE

ast week, there was a reported meeting between the Nigerian Army and the international non-governmental organization (NGO), Amnesty International (AI) in Abuja, Nigeria. From what we gathered, the meeting was at the instance of the Nigerian Army. Although it was a closed door meeting, feelers from the meeting pointed to the fact that the Nigerian Army briefed the organization and also answered all the questions it raised in its numerous reports and documentaries. The meeting was indeed a welcome development as both sides acknowledged that it was the first of its kind in the world. It was the first time that any armed service of any country accorded the NGO such respect. Similarly, for the Nigerian Army, noted for its tendency to insulate itself from exposure to such organizations in the past, the interaction was the first time. Therefore, there were high hopes and expectations especially from the military and the citizenry as it provided an opportunity to explain or answer the allegations leveled against it over time by the AI. For whoever has doubts about the genuine intentions of the Nigerian Army under the leadership of its current Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, needs to have a rethink as he has always matched words with deeds. They have defeated the terror group Boko Haram, making it possible

AI NEEDS TO REVIEW ITS MODE OF INVESTIGATIONS. IT MUST RECOGNIZE SOVEREIGN STATES AND THE LEGALLY CONSTITUTED ORGANS OF THE

GOVERNMENT… for many communities to return home, picking the pieces together to continue with their lives. A feat that could not be achieved in six years was accomplished within six months! The concerted efforts to improve civilmilitary relations in the country brought about renewed vigour in interfacing with so many stakeholders, NGOs, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the media. It has also been collaborating with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) amongst others. The collaboration led to training workshops and continued consultation for the benefit of the society. It is not surprising that the Nigerian Army initiated a meeting with the Amnesty International. Unfortunately, the comments of the leader of the delegation to the meeting were to say least, very disappointing. After acknowledging the commendable commitment of the Army for a thorough investigation of all the allegations and explaining the line of ac-

tion taken or disciplinary measures meted out to those found wanting, the NGO was not satisfied but brought new sets of unrealistic demands. It is really curious to understand the motive and interest of AI, or what they want to achieve. Whatever it is, such motives, I dare say, were not in the best interest of our collective wellbeing or for the peace and security of our great nation. Apart of being rude, the posture of Amnesty International really left so many questions as to its sincerity. Moreover, there a lot of loopholes in the process of its investigations to discredit any report produced from such exercise. The Nigerian press and indeed all Nigerians should be very cautious of the AI. Their reports mainly were based on hearsay. Those that AI decided to access and interact with in arriving at its conclusions are those criminals and misguided elements that propagate anarchy and misinformation. AI needs to review its mode of investigations. It must recognize sovereign states and the legally constituted organs of the government like the Nigerian Army. It must recognise the layers of administration and authority within such government institutions. The Nigerian Army has its established legal system. Therefore, infringements, if any, on the rights of individuals by personnel of Nigerian Army are independently and impartially

investigated by the higher administrative command of those involved. The AI must accept this and respect every institution of a sovereign state. In similar vein, our local human rights organisations are advised not to blindly echo antagonistic positions of the so-called human rights watchdogs at the detriment of national security and our sovereignty. I think it is about time that AI should critically examine all those allegations and know that they were nothing but cheap blackmail and should therefore be consigned to the dustbin of history. AI officials should also apologise to the Nigerian Army hierarchs and all the officers they falsely accused. I shall at this point echo the wise words of General Yakubu Gowon, former Head of State that “AI should also apologize to Nigerians and the Army and all the officers they falsely accused. The Army should make its investigations and the punishments meted out to all those found wanting public to enable Nigerians and indeed the whole world appreciate its efforts.” Agbese, an international public affairs commentator, contributed this piece from Cebu City, The Philippines Send your views by mail or sms to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mail@ nationalmirroronline.net mirrorlagos@ yahoo.com or 08164966858 (SMS only). The Editor reserves the right to edit and reject views or photographs. Pseudonyms may be used but must be clearly marked as such.

Editorial

Thursday February 25, 2016

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 ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF

Spectre of Nigeria’s starving children

he United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) painted a grim picture about child mortality in the country recently when it said over 13 million Nigerian children were suffering from chronic malnutrition. At a national town hall meeting it held in Abuja last week, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Civil Society Scaling-up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN), drove home the point the more. Its National Coordinator, Philippa Momah, said over 1.6 million children between six-months-old and five years of age were down with severe acute malnutrition; and that without treatment, about 300,000 of them could die in the year 2016 alone. Reports from the global body in recent years said whereas trends indicated that Nigeria was making progress in scaling down infant and under-five mortality rates, the pace of achieving the Millennium Development Goal of reducing child mortality by a third by last year was still slow. Preventable or treatable infectious diseases like malaria, pneumonia, diarrhoea, measles and HIV/AIDS accounted for more than 70 percent of the estimated one million under-five deaths in the country, while malnutrition was the underlying cause of morbidity and mortality of a large chunk (over 50 percent) of children under the age of five years.

At the launch of the global 2014 Human Development Report (HDR) by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Abuja in August last year, Nigeria and countries in Sub-Saharan Africa were reminded of the need to intensify their battles against deprivation and prevent crises from setting back recent development advances. Around 585 million people or about 72 percent of the region’s population were said to be either living in multidimensional poverty – with overlapping deprivations in education, health and living standards – or at risk of relapsing back into poverty. The affected population groups often do not experience improvements in their standard of living because they have limited political participation, livelihood options and access to basic social services. Even when they do escape poverty, they can relapse rapidly into precariousness when crises strike. The HDR rated Nigeria’s Human Development Index (HDI) value for 2013 as 0.504 — which is in the low human development category — positioning the country at 152 out of 187 countries and territories. But between 2005 and 2013, Nigeria’s HDI value increased from 0.466 to 0.504, an increase of 8.1 percent or an average annual increase of about 0.98 percent. The country’s 2013 HDI of 0.504 was above the average of 0.493 for countries in the low human development group; and above the

THE MDGS/SDGS ARE MAINLY HUMAN DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES COUNTRIES SERIOUSLY AND GENUINELY DESIROUS OF DEVELOPMENT COULD LEVERAGE ON TO AVERT GLOOMY PICTURES average of 0.502 for countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Between 1980 and 2013, Nigeria’s life expectancy at birth increased by 6.9 years, mean years of schooling increased by 0.2 years; and expected years of schooling increased by 2.3 years, et cetera. So the figures say. However, by October last year, at the end of the 70th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, graced by 193 world leaders, including Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari, the UN adopted the 2015 - 2030 development agenda - Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) - christened ‘Transforming Our World’, which put paid to the 2000 - 2015 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Back home, nonetheless, it was roundly evident that the targets of the 2000 – 2015 MDGs, which centred on poverty alleviation, education, gender equality

and empowerment of women, child and maternal health, environmental sustainability, reduction of HIV/ AIDS and communicable diseases, as well as building a global partnership for development, were not met. The SDGs have 17 targets, with broader scopes than the MDGs. They include ending poverty in all its forms everywhere; ending hunger, achieving food security, as well as improving nutrition and promoting sustainable agriculture; ensuring healthy lives and promoting the well-being of all at all ages; et cetera. The MDGs/SDGs are mainly human development objectives countries seriously and genuinely desirous of development could leverage on to avert gloomy pictures on human development strides in Nigeria, like the type UNICEF has just released. Having registered a huge failure in attaining the 2000 – 2015 MDGs, the Nigerian government at all levels should strive harder to put up pass marks in their accomplishment of the 2015 - 2030 SDGs, especially in areas of health, education and agriculture, potable water provisioning, and so forth. The government should demonstrate sufficient commitment to saving the lives of malnourished kids through making special arrangements to reduce unemployment, poverty, hunger and destitution; as well as sound treatment for starving Nigerian children.

ON THIS DAY February 25, 1991

February 25, 1994

The Warsaw Pact was declared disbanded. The Treaty of Friendship, Co-operation, and Mutual Assistance, more commonly referred to as the Warsaw Pact, was a mutual defense treaty between eight communist states of Central and Eastern Europe in existence during the Cold War period. The founding treaty was established under the initiative of the defunct Soviet Union and signed on May 14, 1955 in Warsaw.

Mosque of Abraham massacre: In the Cave of the Patriarchs in the West Bank city of Hebron, Americanborn Israeli, Baruch Goldstein, a member of the farright Israeli Kach movement, opened fire on a group of unarmed Palestinian Muslims with an automatic rifle, killing 29 Palestinian worshippers and injuring 125 others before being subdued and beaten to death by survivors.

February 25, 2009 ‘Bangladesh Rifles (BDR)’, a paramilitary force mainly associated with guarding the borders of Bangladesh, carried out a mutiny at their headquarters in Pilkhana, Dhaka, resulting in 74 deaths, including more than 50 army officials. The rebelling soldiers took over the BDR headquarters in Pilkhana, killing the BDR Director-General and army officers. The mutineers surrendered after a series of negotiations with the government.

Thursday, February 25, 2016

IN CONJUNCTION WITH

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today

AFE BABALOLA UNIVERSITY, ADO-EKITI (ABUAD) In ABUAD, You Get It All —Dr Ayodele Fayose, Ekiti State Governor.

TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

ince his appointment as the eight substantive Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, last month, Prof. Olarenwaju Fagbohun has been on his toes. The Professor of Environmental Law and researcher believes that much is required from him considering the enormous challenges he inherited from his predecessor. It would be recalled that LASU which had once enjoyed a prominent place especially in academic and research works among its contemporaries in the country suddenly lost its bearing about a decade ago and could no longer get things right again due to leadership, followership and image problems, among others. “That is why I want to run an all-inclusive administration where no stakeholder in LASU would be taken for granted,” the VC told National Mirror in a chat. With that philosophy in mind, Prof. Fagbohun who had already engaged each of the staff unions as well as students in a separate talk within his first two weeks in office seeking their total support and cooperation has again conveyed a two-day conference where all the stakeholders assembled under one roof to learn the secrets that would help them to restore the institution’s former glory and consequently surpass it. To show his seriousness by matching words with action, the university invited experts from the academic circle and the National Universities Commission, NUC, as resource persons to show the university community the way that leads to the Promised Land. They include the former Executive Secretary of NUC, Prof. Peter Okebukola; the former Vice-Chancellor of University of Lagos, UNILAG, Akoka and renowned scientist, Prof. Oyewusi Ibidapo-Obe; former Registrar of University of Ibadan, Mrs. Moji Ladipo and the Director of Quality Assurance of NUC, Dr. Abiodun Saliu, among others. Unfortunately, the retreat which hinged on quality assurance came nine years after NUC had directed every university to establish quality assurance unit. With the theme: “Fostering communitywide quality assurance culture in Lagos State University for efficient service delivery and academic excellence,” the university believes that the forum would not be like those in the past where implementation had always been a major problem.

LASU moves to reclaim lost glory Gathers eggheads to show the way

VC, LASU, Prof. Lanre Fagbohun (left) with former Provost, LASUCOM, Prof. O. Odusanya, during the retreat. (Inset) Prof. Peter Okebukola taking the class.

Setting the ball rolling, the vice-chancellor, during his address of welcome, reaffirmed his administration’s plans and intent to see LASU producing first-rate graduates that would be globally competitive before the expiration of his tenure. “By that,” he explained, “Every LASU graduate would have been able to raise his head and flaunt proudly in the public, his certificates obtained from LASU.” So, before the end of my tenure five years away, my administration, God’s willing, would have been able to institutionalise excellence both in learning and teaching as well as in research and community services in the atmosphere of peace in the university.” He noted that the new dispensation would also ensure that accountability and sustainability of standard become an established culture in the system while assuring that the university would make use of quality assurance directorate to supervise the implementation of policies and programmes that would come up from the retreat. One of the resource persons, Prof. Oke-

bukola acknowledged the fact that LASU indeed needs help to overcome its myriad of problems. Speaking on “Framework for promoting quality culture and efficient service delivery in the university system,” the former NUC boss said sanity must be brought back to the university to enable it reclaim the vision of its founding fathers. He said, truly, it was not only NUC that had bad impression about some of LASU programmes but that the employers of labour would also give it a second thought to appoint the products of the university to sensitive positions just because of frequent crisis in the university. “But I can categorically say that with the ongoing efforts and with all the stakeholders key into it, all these challenges would soon become a thing of the past and LASU graduates will retain same quality and identity in their various endeavours as they go on with life, ” he stressed. Making his own presentation, Director of Quality Assurance, NUC and keynote speaker at the event, Dr. Abiodun Saliu cor-

roborated Okebukola on many views, adding that the university’s tripartite mandates of teaching, research and community service could only be achieved when stakeholders carry out their responsibilities according to the laid down rules and regulations. He told participants that the basic way to ensure that quality assurance holds sway in LASU was to have all courses and programmes fully accredited. He however noted that beyond quality attainment was quality improvement and sustainability, which according to him do not require monitoring by the regulatory agencies. He said LASU could not afford to remain static in a dynamic world in service delivery method, facilities and so on if it is truly wanted to be a world-class university in the nearest future. “So, you must ensure your programmes are market-driven, you must also provide necessary facilities and support services and be transparent and merit-driven in all your activities and you must equally cultivate CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

‘‘

Gowon decries increasing rush for foreign studies 21

You’ve to comply with govt policy, Ogun teachers told 22

‘UTME not favourable to colleges of education’ 22

Education Today

‘NCE holders to go back to classroom in Katsina’ James Danjuma KATSINA

olders of the National Certificate in Education, NCE, working at the council areas in Katsina State have been ordered to return to the classroom. The order was given to boost number of trained classroom teachers in primary schools across the state. Speaking on the issue with newsmen on Monday, the state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Abdulkadir Zakka said the development was in line with state government’s policy on priority to the education sector. Zakka, therefore, called on Heads of Departments at the council areas to identify NCE holders who work in the administrative and related lines, and post them to primary schools. He however said that the deployment of affected NCE holders was an interim measure as government was planning to recruit additional 2,000 primary school teachers. He said the measure would assist improve education at the council areas, even as he assured that the ministry was also working with stakeholders to improve service delivery at the grassroots. The commissioner said the ministry had recently embarked on routine inspection and monitoring of council arras to improve performance of staff and ensure laid down rules were safely adhered to. He said that the ministry had concluded plans to engage consultants to enhance revenue generation for the 34 local government areas of the state. He said the ministry is considering the temporal discarding of salary payments to junior staff at the council areas through the e-payment system. He said the reason was because several of them were in the habit of evading going to work, and that sometimes, the council areas have little or no presence of junior staff till salary time. Zakka sad said rather that e-payment, the table payment was being considered, and that such would force truant junior officials to be reporting for their daily duties at the local government areas. He warned that the state government would not condone indiscipline from its staff at the council areas and that those caught would be made to face the consequences.

LEAMPS trains members in Lagos

he League of Muslim School Proprietors (LEAMSP), Lagos State chapter would today converge on multipurpose hall of Lagos Secretariat Mosque at Alausa Ikeja for training of members. The one-day event would be like a refresher course to members with a view to performing better in their service delivery back home. The keynote speakers according to the chairman of the chapter, Alhaji Raheem Fatai are the Director-General of the office of Quality Assurance, Lagos State, Mrs. Ronke Soyombo and the National President of the league, Alhaji Taiwo Tijani.

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Provost, Federal College of Education, FCE, Kontagora, Niger State, Dr. Nathaniel Odediran speaks in this interview with PRISCILLA DENNIS on issues affecting teachers’ education in the country, the Federal Government’s plan to recruit half a million teachers, among other issues. Excerpts:

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

UTME not favourable to colleges of education —Provost

and the order is in priority. So, the student first picks the university, then follow by polytechnic and then college of education. Therefore, if a student fails to get admission into university or polytechnic, that is when he or she will think of coming to the college of education to study. Then most times, they do this reluctantly. So, you cannot expect the best from a student, who made the choice as the last resort like you rightly pointed out.

How can this trend be reversed? I think the only way out of this problem is to have separate matriculation exams as it was done until 2010 when we started having unified matriculation exams. Like I have always advocated that it would not give us credit if we only pick students, who reluctantly decided to come to colleges of education not from their own free will, but because there is no choice. So, I feel government should look into this policy again so that we can have the best brains coming into the teaching profession without them being forced to come. That is my candid opinion on the issue. I feel over the years, we have always been making the powers that be to understand the situation, we have found ourselves. Since, I came here six years ago, enrolment into our programmes has consistently been between 1,000 to 1,200. As a matter of fact, last session, we had the least, 600 students last year. That of last year was so because, one, there was a protracted industrial action embarked upon by staff of all colleges of education nationwide and secondly, the sad incident we had on 12 November 2014, where a Odediran suicide bomber detonated a bomb right in the college and the action The Nigerian education sector appears to be in a serious affected one of our students. I think this development scared people away to apply to our college mess, how do you think this problem can be tackled? Truly there are many challenges here and there confronting us as a but we about one N1, 000 enrolment this session. country. These are not only in the education sector but our entire life. President Muhammadu Buhari has promised to recruit 500, So, if we talk about financial problem, education has a bit of it share 000 non professional such as architects, lawyers, among others and so also other problems. But then we have a new government in the past eight months and as teachers, what is your view on this? I feel the initiative is a welcome idea. He is on the right track by planthe government is trying to settle down to face challenges on ground and find a way forward. I am confident that the present administra- ning to give gainful employment to 500, 000 people to contribute their tion will come up with holistic solutions to all the problems confront- own quota to the development of this nation. ing the quality of education, the economy as well as other sectors of Recently, the media was awashed with a story of a student our national life. But I feel the major solution to the education sector is re-orienta- dubbed as a recruiter for the IS in Nigeria, how did you receive tion of the citizenry. Our attitude, our value system, our life style and the news? These days, students have unlimited access to information and beour expectations all these have to be re-oriented to ensure that we all key into the new administration’s change agenda. What I am saying cause most of them are young, they would want to venture and take essentially is that every Nigerian must imbibe the culture of change risk about many things they read about like crimes in other countries. You cannot rule out students’ involvement in trying to get into such from bad to good. nefarious deed. I feel every stakeholder in the society has a role to play to stem the Inadequate funding has always been a major complaint by many school administrators in the country, what about you sir? tide of what I term fanatism, which I feel is the cause of the problem. The issue of inadequate funding is facing many organisations in You cannot do without pockets of individuals who have this orientathe country and ours is not immune from the challenge. In the past tion and want to get involved in it. two years, our overhead allocation for running the college dropped drastically. The past three years, we were receiving approximately N6 million as overhead, but from 2014, the money dropped to N4 million CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 and to N3 million last year. Unfortunately, the allocation has not even the culture of checks and balances among staffers and students,” he been regular. And the cost of running the college has increased, but added. the fund is not coming ditto, capital projects that we have embarked on Prof. Ibidapo-Obe, who spoke on Fostering quality culture in recould not be completed. search,” also said the university must imbibe the spirit of quality not Like last year, we only got 50 per cent of what was appropriated for only in research but also in teaching and community service, saying funding and completion of capital projects. So, you can see that the that was the only way to be competitive and remain so. problem is like magnitude kind of dimension. That is the problem The former Registrar of UI, Mrs. Ladipo on her part, said since and everyone in Nigeria knows that the drop in oil price in the world registry and account departments were the life wire of a university, is seriously affecting the revenue government receives from Oil and both would have to key into the quality assurance standards to fastGas sector and this in turn is affecting every other thing. track the process of the university going to the stardom. For staff and students unions who may stand as hindrance to the What is admission like in your school since many seek ad- realization of the objectives of the retreat, the chairman of the unimission into colleges of education as a last resort? versity’s chapter of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities, This is one of the cardinal issues we have been raising with the NASU, Mr. Albert Agosu expressed his union readiness to key into Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB, each time we went the new rules and regulations, saying all of them stand to benefit for for consultative interaction. That majority of the students who go to the turnaround of the university. colleges of education today go there as a last resort. And because of He recalled that most crises in the past would have been averted that we have been on the opinion that we go back to the traditional if the leadership had been people-oriented in their policies and prosystem where each level of education conducts a separate entrance grammes. examination rather than the unified system. “But we are sure of a new LASU where things work if we all follow Because the unified system is like forcing students to pick a college simple principles we were told at the retreat,” he concluded.

LASU moves to ...

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Multichoice restates commitment to education devt Tunbosun Ogundare

video entertainment services provider, MultiChoice Nigeria has restated its commitment to contribute meaningfully to the development of education in the country as a way of creating shared values in the environment where it operates. The company gave the assurance while donating another set of well- equipped resource centres to 22 public secondary schools in Ogun State, recently. The schools included Abeokuta Girls’ Grammar School; African Church Grammar School (Jnr.), Adeola Odutola College, Ijebu-Ode; Ansarudeen Comprehensive College, Ota; Baptist Boys’ High School, Abeokuta; Makun High School, Sagamu; Odogbolu Grammar School; Owode High School, Egba Owode and Our Lady of Apostles, Ijebu Ode, among others. The resource centres as part of the company’s corporate social investment (CSI) initiatives are equipped with digital learning aids that include a TV set, DStv Explora decoder, satellite dish, a generator, UPS, sets of chairs and tables and other equipment. The managing director of the company, John Ugbe said the centres would give the students opportunity to access educational TV channels that include: Discovery World, Channel ED, National Geographic, History Channel and Mindset right inside their schools at no cost. He disclosed that the project which was introduced 12 years ago and so far launched in 363 public schools in 31 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) had been tested to improve the knowledge and skills of beneficiary students and teachers especially in technical subject areas. The Managing Director, who was represented by Ms Efe Obiomah at the Ogun State launch, explained further that the company the company had a strong conviction that only sound education that could lead to the nation’s technology and socio-economic development, hence the donation of the resource centres. He however promised that the gesture would extend to remaining states. Expressing appreciation to Multichoice for the donation, Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mrs. Modupe Mujota said the resource centre would not only make teaching and learning more interesting and empowering, but would also lead to better performance of students in external exams. While urging other corporate organisations to emulate Multichoice in this regard, the commissioner appealed to beneficiary schools to maintain the facilities and equipment so that it would achieve the purposes of which they were donated.

UNIABUJA honours Ekwueme, Tinubu with doctorate degrees

Regina Otokpa ABUJA

he University of Abuja would this Saturday confer a Honorary Doctorate degree on a former Governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and a former Vice President, Dr. Alex Ekwueme during its convocation ceremony. Tinubu would be awarded a DBA (Honoris Causa) while Ekwueme would be conferred with D Sc (Honoris Causa). Also to receive honourary degrees are former Chief Justices of Nigeria, Justice Idris Kutigi LLD and Justice Maryam Aloma Muktar Dlitt - both (honoris Causa). The institution said that it would hold an investiture for the Chancellor, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Alhj, Dr. SheHu Idris. The Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Michael Adikwu, on Monday in Abuja at a pre- convocation press conference, said 25, 878 would be awarded various degree certificates. According to him, no fewer than 20, 461 would receive first degrees, 1697 would receive postgraduate diploma while 2, 233 individuals would be awarded masters degrees and 331 persons conferred with doctorate degrees.

Academic and Student Affairs Coordinator, Institute for Industrial Technology (IIT); Mr. Dimobika Chiduluo; Managing Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Peter Ndegwa and Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria, Mr. Sesan Sobowale with Guinness Nigeria IIT Scholars during a visit to the company at Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos, recently.

Gowon decries increasing rush for foreign studies Regina Otokpa ABUJA

ormer Head of State, retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon has faulted the upsurge in the number of Nigerians seeking to pursue university degrees abroad. Disclosing this during the Golden Jubilee Lecture of Federal Government Collage, Warri held yesterday in Abuja, he urged the government to take urgent steps to improve the standard of education in the country in order to discourage people from sending their children abroad to study. He said: “One of the reasons we established federal government collages and made even better than some private schools, encourage some of our ambassadors to leave their children back home in Nigeria when we send them abroad. Our idea was to ensure a very quality educa-

tion. Gowon further paid glowing tributes to founding fathers of the nation for their roles in the development of the unity schools in Nigeria. “We must give absolute respect to the vision of the founding fathers of the Federal Government Collages for bringing young men and women from all parts of the country to teach them how to live together, how to grow together and how to love one another and their country. In his address, the National President of the FGC, Warri, Sir Chyna Iwuanyanwu, urged the Federal Government to formulate a policy that would prohibit public office holders from sending their children abroad for primary and secondary education. He appealed to President Buhari to declare a state of emergency in the nation’s education sector, saying the war against insurgency may come to noth-

ing if educational system is not developed to guarantee access to quality education for every child in the country. In his own contribution, the Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Julius Okojie, who is an old student of the college, also emphasized the increase access to quality education in the country, saying such would help improve the quality of life of the citizenry.

Gowon

Salem University VC warns freshers against social vices Wale Ibrahim LOKOJA

he Vice- Chancellor of Salem University, Lokoja, Professor Joseph Fuwape has warned the newly admitted students into the institution to shun all form of unruly behavior capable of truncating their education and future. He gave the warning while addressing them during their matriculation ceremony held last week. The students who are in for different courses are 425 in all. Prof. Fuwape however implored them to adhere strictly to the terms and obligations of studentship and be committed to the core values of godliness, confidence, mental empowerment, integrity, accountability, diligence and resourcefulness in the discharge of their duties. He also charged them to be focused on their studies, stressing that they should strive for excellence and be

of good conduct in and outside the campus, threatening that any student who contravenes the rule and regulations guiding their conduct in and outside the school would be dealt with according to the law. He said the matriculation ceremony was not a mere

routine but a significant rite of passage in the life of every university student. The vice-chancellor however highlighted the successes recorded by the university so far in putting up better learning and research facilities and in churning out graduates that are per-

forming excellently in their various fields of endeavour within and outside the country. He congratulated the parents and solicited their continuous support within the framework of the tripartite agreement guiding the training of their children.

Executive Secretary, African Network for Agriculture, Agroforestry and Natural Resources Education (ANAFE), Kenya, Prof. Aissetou Drame Yaye(left) with ViceChancellor, Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA, Prof. Adebiyi Daramola shortly after signing a Memorandum of Understanding, in Akure, recently. PHOTO: UNIVERSITY

Education Today

Thursday, February 25, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Don canvasses sustainable education in engineering programmes Saidat Alausa

rofessor of Sustainable Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Prof. Israel Dunmade has urged the government to incorporate sustainable education into engineering design courses in the undergraduate engineering programmes. According to him exposing students in a very technical, multidisciplinary engineering programme to sustainability thinking would make students realized that sustainability principles should be at the core of their future engineering practice. He said this while delivering Covenant University’s fifth inaugural lecture titled, Sustainable Engineering, A Vital Approach to Innovative Product Development and Community Capacity Building at the weekend. Listing the courses to include, design for disassembly, design for modulation and design for materials, Prof. Dunmade said this may be in the form of college-wide courses that involve teaching basic pillars of sustainable engineering. He disclosed further that another way to build engineering sustainability capacity is by setting the direction for all stakeholders in the engineering profession; educators; students; practitioners and policy makers for years to come. “Such direction may have to be varied from one economic sector to another and from one people or culture to another. It may also require seasonal adaptation. However, the template

should essentially be the same.” Although, he said the concept of sustainable engineering is still new and unfamiliar to many engineers, researchers, managers, and policy makers, it can however be applied to virtually all engineering projects. Recommending its application for the development and management of the nation’s infrastructure, Prof. Dunmade said doing so would result in the development of appropriate and long lasting infrastructure in the country. “It would also help the community to take ownership of the facility in their domain because they are involved in the process. On the long run, the doctrine of sustainable engineering would help in drastic reduction in our infrastructure project cost and project abandonment. It would also result in preservation of our all important ecosystems from destruction,” he stressed. The Chancellor of the university, Dr. David Oyedepo in his remarks, advised the Federal Government to review the investment policies on education in order to achieve desirable development in the country. He explained that people need to be educated before they can partner with stakeholders to achieve meaningful development. Oyedepo said the nation needs required platform for sustainable engineering and community capacity building to grow before desirable development could be achieved in the country. Also, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Ayo, said until the nation get to the right path of development, it would not be one of the technological developed nations..

L-R: Dean, College of Leadership Development Studies, Covenant University, Ota, Prof. Charles Ogbulogo; the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Ayo (3rd left); the inaugural lecturer, Prof. Israel Dunmade; the Chancellor, Dr. David Oyedepo; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Taiwo Abioye; the Registrar; Pst Olamide Olusegun and the Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Shallom Chinedu during the university fifth inaugural lecture, at the weekend.

Tunbosun Ogundare

eachers in Ogun State public secondary schools have been urged to comply with the state government policy on education in order to achieve the set objective in the sector. The Chairman, Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Olabosipo Ogunsan made the call during a two-day unannounced visit to some

You’ve to comply with govt policy, Ogun teachers told public secondary schools in the four divisions across the state to monitor teachers’ activities. Ogunsan noted that all hands must be on deck to ensure that affordable and qualitative education programme of the state government achieved the

desired result, saying education was one of the fivecardinal programme of the current administration in the state. The TESCOM boss expressed satisfaction at teachers’ dedication, commitment and attendance to duty in all the schools she

visited. At Adeola Odutola College, the principal and a teacher in the school, Messrs Abiodun Orekomaiya and Olugbenga Shinkale pledged on behalf of colleagues that they were ready to work according to demands of their offices.

Educationist tasks govt on youth empowerment Saidat Alausa

hairman, Babcock University Schools Management Board, Prof. Luke Onuoha has urged government at all levels to intensify effort in ensuring that Nigerian youths are empowered in order to help in the development of the nation. He said this could be done by providing them with necessary facilities to help them establish their own business and become the much needed entrepreneurs. Onuoha stated this during the Pathfinder Club induction ceremony organised by Adventist Youth Ministry (AYM) of Babcock Univer-

sity Schools, Ogba, Lagos, recently. He also urged the youth, who according to him are the future leaders of the nation, to have the fear of God so that they will not go the way of the corrupt leaders, stressing that those corrupt leaders have disappointed the youths. He commended the students of the school for joining Adventist Youth Ministry where they are taught leadership with the fear of God as the foundation. The Don also commended and congratulated the man-

the necessary materials their children needs to succeed in their academic pursuit. He noted that provision of necessary materials for students to work with, conducive learning environment and hard work on the part of the students will make examination malpractice and incessant withholding or cancellation of exam results to become things of the past. On the induction, Fasanu charged all the Pathfinders to remain undaunted, committed, courageous Light Bearers and lovers of God’s word until it is over.

Lagos lauds British Council’s contribution to education Tunbosun Ogundare

Former Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Prof. Sulaimon Bogoro (left) with the Vice-Chancellor, Ekiti State University during the VC’s familiarization tour to TETFund head office in Abuja, recently.

agement of the school for encouraging their students to become members of Adventist Youth Ministry and for the achievements of the school within two years of existence. Speaking at the occasion, the principal of the school, Mr. Gabriel Fasanu urged students in the country to always make hard work their watchword stressing that it is the only genuine and moral way of achieving success in all examinations. The educationist called on parents and guardians to ensure that they provide all

agos State Deputy Governor, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule has commended the contributions of the British Council towards the development of the education sector in the state. She gave the commendation at a reception she hosted for some delegates from the United Kingdom who are in Lagos under the British Council Connecting Classroom Programme, noting that for the state to achieve

better education delivery, the cooperation and partnership of international institutions such as the British Council is imperative. The deputy governor who is also in charge of education in the state particularly commended the UK’s charity outfit on the provision of digital hubs in three public senior secondary schools in the state and the organisation of several training and workshops for teachers, head teachers and officers in the ministry. She noted that their collaboration was yielding re-

sults especially in the areas of students’ performance in senior school certificate examinations. Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mrs. Olabisi Ariyo noted that the British Council’s Connecting Classrooms programme would promote greater understanding of global issues for teachers and students in both country. The head of the UK delegate, Mrs. Jane English also said the partnership had been benefiting both Nigeria and UK.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Sorting: A new slang in Nigerian schools

ew terminologies have crept into the lexicon of our tertiary institutions in the last two decades or so, and many more are still creeping in. They include “sorting”, “waiver”, “mop-up”, and “regularization”. Just last week two students walked into my office to announce that they have been granted “amnesty”, a brand new term in the dictionary of the university system! Though these are common English words, they have completely different application in the tertiary institutions. Sorting is probably the oldest of these emerging terminologies. In common parlance, it describes a process of arranging items systematically with two common, but distinct meanings. It may simply mean arranging items in a sequence, according to a preferred order, or grouping together of items with similar characteristics. In the phrasal verb form “sort out”, it may mean to separate from others, to clarify or resolve, or to bring or restore to health or good condition. In the academic arena, sorting means something else. This is how some of the students I consulted defined sorting: “bribery and corruption”; giving cash or kind to obtain underserved grades, or lobbying for a grade not deserved. However, if we consider that sorting is an attempt by students to resolve their academic problems, though in an illegal manner, the term sorting as used in the Nigerian academic system resembles the phrasal verb form to “sort out”, meaning “to resolve”. Sorting is never the first consideration of a student who has not prepared for an examination. Usually most students resort to cheating in the examination hall in order to attain a pass mark. It is the easiest way to pass an examination without creating ripples, especially in an environment where examinations are not properly conducted. With improvements in the conduct of examinations and rigorous implementation

of the stipulated penalties for examination malpractice, the practice has become less attractive and sorting has become a safer alternative. Sorting may be done using every available tool at the disposal of the student. It may include verbal persuasion (begging), or resorting to the persuasive power of money, gifts and sex. Begging is the least expensive method of sorting but may be quite complex! Some students paint pathetic pictures of caring for sick mothers during the examination in order to attract sympathy from the course lecturers. Others are in full time employments in order to fend for themselves and their dependant siblings and hardly attend lectures. Many simply conjure up the magic power of tribal, religious or some fraternal affiliations, often very successfully too, to achieve their objective. Church pastors, parents, politicians, community chiefs and senior academic staff members have knowingly or unknowingly been conscripted into this army of beggars and deployed effectively on selected target lecturers. Begging is often elevated to a semi official status with some Heads of Departments and Deans in collaboration with sympathetic academic staff eloquently soliciting other members of the departmental board to adopt an unwritten policy of upgrading results of failed candidates; a process deceitfully nicknamed “moderation”. Perhaps, begging may account for

up to 75% of all cases of result manipulations in Nigerian universities. Begging is sometimes facilitated by the offer of gifts. A bottle of wine or some other fancy gifts may be offered in “appreciation” by the solicitors for a favourable response by the lecturers. Sometimes, the gifts are offered before any requests are made to prepare the grounds, and the thin line between begging and bribery disappears. The most traumatic form of sorting is the demand for sorting by lecturers from students in order to obtain a pass grade. Occasionally, the demand is optional for those who are interested, but very often it is compulsory for all those who sat for a particular examination. It is even more traumatic for the ladies when the lecturer picks the option of sex instead of cash or other commodities of exchange in this sordid trade. Though the perpetrators of these nefarious acts are known, the students are too scared to blow their cover! Sorting has created many problems for the Nigerian university system. For the students, it is a disincentive to academic excellence. It is not attractive to work hard while others come up with the grades. In addition it is a career threatening practice for brilliant students who cannot afford the price demanded by the lecturers. It has contributed to the new class of Nigerian graduates who cannot read and write and eroded the confidence of Nigerians and the international community in the certificates awarded by Nigerian universities. Sorting is also a flagrant violation of basic human rights, the moral, emotional and religious convictions of all who are brought under its influence. It is an imposition of a culture of criminality, depravity, godlessness and mammon worship by a minority who are products of our modern permissive ‘Christian’ religious culture.

Firm boosts e-learning with special software Ifeanyi Eduzor

igerian students who have been finding it difficult to adjust to digital technology now have opportunity of doing so following plans by EI Consulting Ltd to offer e-learning services almost free to universities, colleges and other educational institutions to meet their learning and training requirements. Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, Etinosa Eseosa Iyare told National Mirror that the company which has assisted numerous institutions with adjusting to e-learning technologies is bringing along 10 years experience from the United States in its bid to revolutionalise education in the country and make Nigerians migrate from paper assignments, exams, lectures/ lesson notes into a digital platform especially now that some external examination bodies like WAEC and JAMB has migrated to e-exams. He noted that the company which uses some of the best software system such as moodle, blackboard and google classroom was provided with a general use public license (GPL) and its source code open which makes it

freely available in the community even as he stated that their services was not restricted to any particular mobile phone network, special device or software. “And our service which has been tested in about 400 universities in the United States should be introduced to Nigerians,” he stressed. According to him, quite a number of solutions put forward by the company are free in terms of cost of product ownership and the software released free and generally available for download on the web even as he stated that they offer training to prospective students in creating their own e-learning content. “ It must be noted that the free solution we offer is considered free because there is no fee associated with ownership of product but we provide a nominal charge for hosting, support, training and custom development needs”, he noted. Shedding more light on the package, Business Development manager of the company, Olumese Obemhenata explained that their software comes with easy to use interface that has been tested over the years by millions of students and institutions around the world.

L-R: Winner, Joseph Ayo Babalola University Annual National Quiz Competition for secondary schools, Master Abegunrin Abimbola of Good Tidings Standard School, Osogbo first runner-up, Onibonoje Tiwaloluwa of Academia High School, Ilesha and second runner-up Adebisi Adebayo of Bibo Oluwa Academy, Ilesa shortly after the competition held at JABU, last week.

Saidat Alausa

begunrin Abimbola of Good Tidings Standard College, Osogbo, Osun State emerged the winner of the third Annual National Quiz Competition for secondary schools, organised by Joseph Ayo Babalola University, IkejiArakeji, Osun State. Abegunrin achieved the feat after a long heated contest between him and the first runner-up, Onibonoje Tiwaloluwa of Academia High School, Ilesha, Osun State. Tiwaloluwa, physically challenged, who was assisted to the stage by his father did not cease to impress the audience from the beginning of the competition to the final round. He was knocked out at the

JABU rewards quiz winners with scholarships

last stage when he spelt the word ‘Abnegate’ incorrectly and the expectant crowd who hoped he would emerge the winner could not conceal their depression. Prior to the final stage of the competition, all the 28 contestants were tested in Computer Based Test, Aptitude Test, English language, Mathematics and General Knowledge, in the competition that lasted for two days. Abegunrin went home with N50, 000, books, desktop computer and the most significant of all a full scholarship to study any course of his choice in JABU for a period of four years. Onibonoje Tiwaloluwa and Adebisi Adebayo of

Bibo Oluwa Academy, Ilesa, the second and third place winners, were also given full scholarships respectively with cash prizes of N40,000 and N30,000 including books worth thousands of naira. The last 10 contestants were given consolation prizes while all the contestants were awarded certificates of participation. In his remark, the ViceChancellor of the university, Prof. Sola Fajana stated that JABU realizes the importance of children and education in the society and it spares nothing at ensuring that these two vitals are given maximum attention. He added that the university has not ceased in its jour-

ney to intellectual excellence and will continue to strive for further advancement in the field of advanced education and research. The VC appreciated the committee in charge of the competition for insisting on consistency of the event; despite the challenges it faces to put the programme in place. He used the opportunity to call on Nigerians to help contribute to the success of the programme by way of sponsorship. The University Registrar, Mr. Wale Aderibigbe; the Acting Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Mr. Samuel Awoniyi and the Secretary, Mr. Wale Olaosebikan appreciated all the participants and assured that the next edition would be more rewarding.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Edited by: Saidat Alausa saidat.alausa@yahoo.com 08027633686

UNILAG students decry deplorable roads

L-R: Manager, Corporate and Social Responsibility, Etisalat Nigeria, Mrs. Oyetola Oduyemi; ViceChancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Abel Idowu; one of the beneficiaries of Etisalat Nigeria 2015 Merit Awards and Student of Economics, Elizabeth Odiaka and Territory Manager, Retail and Sales (South West), Etisalat Nigeria, Mr. Mobolaji Fadeyibi at the Etisalat Merit Awards Scheme 2015 cheque presentation ceremony held at University of Ibadan, recently.

Miftaudeen Raji,

200L, MASS COMM, UNILAG

resident, University of Lagos Students’ Union, Mohammed Olaniyan have bemoaned the deplorable state of many Nigeria roads which has caused the death of many students in the country. He blamed the backdrop on the leadership of the country which, according to him is yet to live up to expectation of the citizenry. This was contained in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the University of Lagos Students’ Union (ULSU), Jumai Fagbui. According to the statement, the ULSU president, noted that the blames needed to be partly shared by the government and the citizens. He added that government has failed to construct most of our roads.”That the constructed ones are not properly and jealously maintained by the public is also true. Speaking on the issue, the chairman of The Progressives, a dominant political group in UNILAG, Sirajudeen Adebakin, submitted that Nigeria roads are no doubt, pathways to the great beyond because of it terrific state. “Many lives most especially youth ended on these roads because our leaders are not proactive in nation building but hyperactive in stealing and intellectual robbery. The 400-level Psychology student however, advised that government should reduce the bureaucratic trend of attending to road maintenance. Giving his own perspective on the issue, the president of Social Science Students Association (SOSSA), UNILAG, Mr. Saheed Ipaye, lamented that it was highly disheartening that Nigeria roads are still far from the expected standard. Meanwhile, the ULSU president commiserated with the students of the Polytechnic, Ibadan, Oyo State who recently lost their lives in a road accident. It should be recalled that six students died recently in an automobile crash which occurred at Motunde, on IbadanOyo Road, recently while 13 other occupants of the 18-seater bus reportedly sustained varying degrees of injury.

NAPSS frowns at destruction of ABUAD properties by students Dare Akogun

ational Association of Peace Studies Students (NAPSS) has condemned the act of destruction perpetrated by some students in collaboration with some expelled students of Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti, ABUAD, Ekiti State. This was contained in a press statement jointly signed by the president Oyewole Michael and the Secretary General Olushola Oladoja and made available to National Mirror. The statement reads in part “With reference to the recent events that unfolded in Afe Babalola University leading to the wanton destruction of properties and halting of academic activities in the institution on the 7th of February, 2016, orchestrated by some disgruntled students. “Without mincing words, we condemn in strong terms the actions of these students and other forms of actions that mitigate peaceful coexistence, destruction of properties and unrest in the institution. The statement further stated that NAPSS speaks vehemently that non-violent conflict resolutions still remain key to solving situations that can degenerate into violence, as well as reach positive desirable ends for all parties concerned. “NAPSS has confirmed the destructions done by the perpetrators and have investigated the possible causes of the rampage and have discovered that there was no basis for this unjust action.

Bida Poly student invents gas detector Oluwatosin Dada

HND 2, MASS COMM, FEDPOLY, BIDA

student of Electrical Engineering Department of the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, Niger State has invented a rechargeable gas detector which will help curbing fire outbreak in homes. The detector is capable of detecting gas leakage in the neighbourhood where it is installed and quickly alert or send Short Service Message or call

Ezekiel Efeobhokhan 500 LEVEL PHAR UNIBEN

ndergraduates have been encouraged to do their best in achieving good grades and then prepare for a positive impact on the society. This call was made during the recent visit by President of Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria Student (PANS), Benjamin Idiakhoa and Campus Journalist, Ezekiel Efeobhokhan to the Operations Base Manager of PAN OCEAN, Mr. Monday Ikureigbe. Responding to questions

the phone number that is installed in it to notify the owner of the danger in the neighborhood. The lecturer, who supervised the project, Mr. Christian Onu explained that most fire outbreak were caused by gas leakage especially in the kitchens and once the gas was not properly locked, it could spark fire from any naked or electric light. He however pointed out that the invention was borne out of the incessant fire outbreak in homes with a view to

tackle the menace. He disclosed that to design the detector was a huge task for the inventor as the inventor had to travel down to Lagos to procure the items and materials went into its production. The inventor, Nwoko Ndubusi on his part, said he developed the detector as a way of contributing his own quota to prevent avoidable fire outbreak that result in loss of lives and property almost every day in the country

Prepare to impact the society, students told from the duo, the manager gave them various scenarios how students in the past overcame their difficulties especially finance and other related academic challenges. He said; “In the past, students partook in extra work. Students worked during the holidays to get money for the next academic session. But presently, for one reason or the other it is not so. Instead of being busy trying to salvage whatever they can get from any situation, we find students paying unnecessary visits to their

friends during their free times. I am not condemning that. But as a student, they should know what their priority should be”. The president PANS, Benjamin Idiakhoa, said the visit necessary because of the recent lackadaisical attitude towards learning displayed by students. According to him, “many blame their inadequacies on their parents and guardian for poor performance in school, hence I saw it necessary as part of activities during my tenure as president

of PANS to seek to address this issue.” Commending Benjamin, the Operations Base Manager stated that many young persons have overlooked the importance of mentorship programs to help prepare them for the future. He however encouraged the few students who engage in entrepreneurial activities while in school, stating that people like that are the ones who graduate to contribute to the society instead of waiting for the government. Cross section of University of Lagos students during the orientation lecture marking the 2016 Freshers Week organised by the Social Science Students Association (SOSSA) of the university, recently.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Edited by: Saidat Alausa saidat.alausa@yahoo.com 08027633686

FUT MINNA graduates 34 First Class Priscilla Dennis MINNA

total of 34 students of the Federal University of Technology, FUT, Minna, Niger State would be graduating with First Class honour at the 25th convocation ceremony coming up this Saturday. Briefing journalists on Tuesday as part of activities lined up for the event, the Vice- Chancellor of the university, Professor Musbau Adewumi Akanji said a total of 3,505 students would be graduating, out of this, 2,787 would be graduating with First Degrees. He explained that 220 would be going with post graduate diplomas, 464 with masters’ degrees and 34 Doctorates Degrees. Akanji also said FUT

Minna was doing well among its peers, both nationally and internationally, noting that presently, the university is ranked 11th in Nigeria and 91st in Africa by the Webometric University World ranking while it ranked 7th in the country and 64th in Africa by 4icu, another reputable organisation. The VC stated that the school was making a lot of progress in research winning many research grants from both local and international bodies. He further explained that the desire of the university to accommodate 75 per cent of its students on campus was being pursued vigorously, noting that more developers on Build Operate and Transfer basis have shown interest in this regard.

Eddy Uwoghiren

400L MED AND SURG, UNIBEN

o fewer than 500 indigenes of Odigwetwe in Ovia North East Local Government area of Edo State have benefited from free medical check-up, drug distribution, relief material distributions and minor surgeries at a three day rural medical outreach organized by the Christian Medical and Dental Association Students of Nigeria (CMDAS), University of Benin (UNIBEN) Chapter, recently. The students numbering over 70 were in the village for the annual rural outreach of the association. Mission secretary of the association Harry Ogodo stated that the medical outreach programme which is an annual event in the association is targeted at rural dwellers to reach them

UNIBEN students take medical outreach to rural dwellers with free medical care and the gospel of Jesus Christ. “As medical students, we are supposed to be at the fore front of advocating for good health. If these villagers know basic health tips, they will learn to live healthy and the bulk of patients visiting our hospitals will reduce.” Harry added that many rural dwellers are in the habits of shunning medical check-up thus the need to bring the mobile hospital close to the villagers. On the first day of the programme, the students held a crusade at Odigwetwe Primary school field. The next day, the students rendered a free medical care to the villagers. The programme which started as early as 7am

that morning cumulated into the nights. The villagers had medical checkup ranging from Basic mass Index (BMI) , Diabetes screening, Hypertension screening, free drug distribution, tooth extraction surgeries, drug distribution, relief material distribution as well as minor surgeries which were conducted by Consultants Surgeons from the Department of Surgery, UBTH. One of the beneficiaries of the surgeries, Mr. Friday Edemakionta commended the students for the gesture. He encouraged them to keep the good work up and take the campaign to neighbouring villages.

FUTA partners Agricultural Education Network Tunbosun Ogundare

s part of efforts to boost its internationalisation drive, the Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the African Network for Agriculture, Agroforestry and Natural Resources Education (ANAFE) based in Nairobi, Kenya. The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Adebiyi Daramola and the Executive Secretary of ANAFE, Prof Aissetou Drame Yaye signed the agreement on behalf of their respective institutions. The agreement, initiated by Professors Akintunde Akindahunsi and Olaniyi Okunlola from the universi-

ty is for the two institutions to promote their vision, mission and objectives as well as strengthen their mutual relationships in the areas of agriculture, agroforestry and natural resources management education, research and community outreach. Under the terms of the agreement according to FUTA in a press release, the university would lead member institutions of ANAFE in Nigeria and spearhead the establishment and promotion of the regional chapter of the network. In her speech, the Executive Secretary of ANAFE, Prof. Aissetou Drame Yaye disclosed that she had worked with many professors from the university, saying they were wonderful.

Provost call for teachers’ motivation

Emeka Chukwuemeka

rovost, Federal College of Education (Technical) Umunze, Anambra State, Prof. Josephat Ogbuagu has said that teachers need to be motivated to ensure quality teachers that will implement basic education. He said teacher education in Nigeria is aimed at providing trainees with intel-

lectual and professional background, adequate for their assignment and to make them adaptable to any changing situations in the country and the world, hence the need to encourage them. He said this during a one-day workshop for teaching practice supervisors organised by the college for 2015/2016 academic session. He urged the supervisors to take the programme serious to ensure positive result at the end of the exercise.

A cross section of new students of Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education (AOCOED) Oto/Ijanikin, Lagos State, during their matriculating ceremony, recently.

Yomi Ayeleso

300L, BUS ADMIN, AAUA

he Dean of Student Affairs, Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba Akoko, Ondo state, Dr. Bolanle Ogungbamila, has commended National Mirror Newspaper for its support to the institution and also given upcoming students writers and journalist the chance to practice journalism in their Campus News. The Dean gave the commendation when a Campus News reporter in the school, ‘Yomi Ayeleso paid him a courtesy visit in his office. He said the university recognized the laudable opportunity by the newspaper. He said it will enable students who are aspiring to be journalist to accomplish their future aims and goals. “I want to commend National Mirror Newspaper for their continue support and

AAU commends National Mirror cooperation in given you guys who are aspiring to be journalist the opportunity of practicing your passion and getting more professional advice and mentorship.” Dr. Ogungbamila said the newspaper should con-

tinue to give the students the the opportunity in their publications so as to enable them contribute their quota to nation building. The DSA, who also commended campus reporters for combining journalism with their academics, said

the university was very proud of them. He advised them to be fair in their reportage and abstain from writing damaging reports against their institution. In his response, Campus News reporter ‘Yomi Ayeleso said the visit was necessary to avail management on some of their activities and further seek for the institution’s support and cooperation.

L-R: Director, Distance Learning, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Prof. Olusegun Idowu; Dean, Students Affairs, Prof. Yemi Akegbejo-Samsons; Chairperson, Committee of Deans, Prof. Bolanle Akeredolu; Dean, College of Plant Science Crop Production, Prof. Mufutau Atayese; and Director, Centre for Innovation and Strategic, Dr.Olusegun Folorunso, during a 2-day seminar organised by the institution, recently.

Thursday, February 25, 2016

HE Front Page of NATIONAL MIRROR of February

11 welcomes us today: “Economy under Buhari in shambles, says Secondus” All the facts, all the sides: in a shambles “A Kaduna Magistrate Court (magistrate’s court) yesterday remanded 189 members of….” “Hilux vehicle containing 8 jerry cans of petroleum, oil and lubricants with large (a large) quantity of 7.62mm ammunitions (ammunition)….” “It is a mistake to assume that this is President Buhari’s private battle to clean the Augean stable (stables).” “The hoi polloi determines (determine) the political leadership but….” (I hope Pastor Kris Okotie knows that ‘hoi polloi’ is an insulting word for the ordinary people) “NDLEA sets up drug free (drug-free) clubs in Katsina schools” Still on National Mirror under focus: “Why I hanged (hung) my boots” Finally, from the back page of National Mirror; “Very soon, Jonathan bashing as a diversionary tactics (tactic) will fizzle away….” “Rather than call his critics insane, he should learn to take criticisms maturely (maturedly).” The Guardian of February 22 takes over: “Why FG awarded crude lifting (crude-lifting) contracts to indigenous firms, by minister” The incorrect extract implies that ‘crude is lifting contracts’! “Lagos PDP wants Tinubu arrested over (for) utterances on polls” “Police threaten to charge offenders over (with) inciting statements” “Minister commissions (inaugurates) Abia eye centre” “Calling off the Kano rally, therefore, would have been a wonderful symbolic gesture, (irrelevant comma) that would have spoken volume (volumes) to Nigerians….” “…what the president is doing by his so-called unity ral-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

In a shambles, not shamble

lies amounts to electioneering campaigns….” With ‘electioneering’, you do not need ‘campaigns’ as the word is embedded in ‘electioneering’. “But one of the detectives demanded for a stool….” Delete ‘for’. “…the battle over who should represent the oil rich (oilrich) community….” “The initiative, which has been scripted to tow (toe) the mode of the pilot run of cash-less (cashless) policy, would begin in Lagos, with no fewer than 1000 of the 1401 branch (1401-branch) network of the nation’s deposit money banks.” “…and to establish strong institution (institutional) frameworks….” “After the initial hiccups, construction has been flaggedoff (sic) on the estate….” A rewrite: …construction has started at the estate…. “…but constitute a hindrance for (to) future expansion and other developmental purposes.” “Let us join hands together and make Lagos a place of pride for all.” Yank off ‘together’ in foreclosure of Elizabethan English! “Sportlight (Spotlight) on outstanding furniture, marble, tiles and interior outfits” “To discourage people from continuing with unhealthy practices of disposing (disposing of) their wastewater into drains, government needs to build sufficient waste water (wastewater) treatment (wastewater-treatment) plants….” ”…which is just in few (a few) months (months’) time….” “NIA sensitises on (to) compensation, counsels against touting” Still on THE GUARDIAN under review: “…especially as the country grapple (grapples) with internal and external

security threats.” “Obiano condoles (condoles with or consoles) Onyeanwuna family, as Anambra mourns late star” Will the state mourn a living star? So, yank off ‘late’! “Obituary Announcement (delete ‘announcement’): The Management and Staff of the Petroleum Equalisation Fund (Management) Board regret to announce the passing (passing away) of its (their) staff….” An aside: is there any ‘timely death’? DAILY SUN of February 22 follows with the next set of solecisms: “…Obi said that participating in such solemn celebration (a solemn celebration or solemn celebrations reminds (reminded) the faithful about christians (sic)….” “Benue first lady assures on peace” Who did the Benue First Lady assure? “I am going into this contest knowing fully (full) well that I am the only candidate….” The PUNCH of April 28 misled readers: “Boko Haram, an affront on (to) Nigerians” “Card fraud: CBN issues deadline for (to) banks, others” “Dangote Cement, LSBA collaborate on building collapse prevention” Get it right: building-collapse prevention “It cannot repeat itself again.” (Nollywood) Delete ‘again’. There is nothing like ‘good riddance to bad rubbish’! I grew up to meet this awkward expression which is still being used by a majority of writers/speakers. ‘Rubbish’ cannot be good or bad—‘rubbish’ is rubbish (garbage)! And ‘good riddance’ is somebody/something you are happy to miss: Good riddance to insurgency/terrorism. Good riddance to my lover/housewife! (Thanks to Femi, 08136788881, for provoking this profound thought).

First batch of Bloomberg financial journalists programme graduates Graduate unemployment rate Isaiah Erhiawarien

bout 60 financial journalists drawn from media houses across Nigeria have graduated from the Bloomberg Media Initiative Africa (BMIA) Executive Training Program designed to equip journalists with advance financial journalism. The Nigerian journalists were part of the 260 graduates while others were from Kenya and South Africa that received recognition at graduation ceremonies simultaneously in the participating countries. The six-month certificate programme is offered to journalists and mid-career professionals in business and civil society to strengthen their skills in capital markets and data analysis and enhance their knowledge in financial and economic reporting. The programme is a core component of the BMIA, which aims to accelerate development of a globally com-

petitive media and financial reporting industry as well as promote transparency, accountability and good governance in Africa. Delivering a keynote address at the ceremony, Director, Bloomberg Media Initiative Africa, Erana Stennnett said that “We hope participants will consider this exposure to business and financial reporting as a lifelong vocation to further the development, quality, accuracy and impact of the field in Africa.” She said, “I am proud of

the journalists and executives who completed the programme, and thank their employers for giving them the opportunity,” she added that Bloomberg was proud to partner with preeminent journalists and leading universities in Africa to make this programme possible. The programme was funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies, with additional support from the Ford Foundation, the BMIA Executive Training Program brings together leading faculty from the University of Pre-

toria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) and five other preeminent business and journalism schools in Africa, including: Rhodes University School of Journalism in South Africa; the University of Lagos Department of Mass Communication and Radio, and the Pan Atlantic University Lagos Business School in Nigeria; and University of Nairobi, School of Journalism and Mass Communications and Strathmore Business School in Kenya.

Participants at this year’s seminar and workshop of the League of Muslim School Proprietors organised for exam invigilators and other officials who are members of the league in Lagos, recently.

surpasses artisans’ in Morocco —Report

lthough unemployment nationally fell in Morocco between 2014 and 2015, the jobless rates for young people rose – with nearly a quarter of university graduates registered as unemployed – according to a report from the government’s planning institution the Haut Commissariat au Plan. The briefing note on the labour market situation in 2015 reported that, overall, unemployment decreased by 1.6% during the year. Groups who benefited most were those without qualifications and adults aged between 35 and 44 years. But, said the Haut Commissariat au Plan: “Unemployment remains particularly high among graduates and young people aged 15-24 years.” In 2015 the unemployment rates were: • 4.1% among people with no qualifications. • 15.6% for a group comprising people with primary, lower secondary and

vocational qualifications. But in this group, people with specialised vocational certificates who were without work represented 24.2%. • 21.2% among holders of degrees or higher specialised technical diplomas – with a higher rate of 24.4% for university graduates (compared with 24.1% unemployed in 2014). Unemployment was higher for young people living in urban areas. While the overall rate for people aged 15-24 years was 20.8%, it was 39% for town-dwellers compared with 9.7% for all people aged over 15, said the note. It also revealed that about eight out of 10 unemployed people lived in towns. Nearly two-thirds were aged between 15 and 29 years, and nearly three in 10 (29%) held a degree or other higher diploma. More than half (51.7%) were firsttime job-seekers. Culled: University World News

Business Thursday, February 25, 2016

CPC orders Multichoice to compensate DStv consumers 28

Charting roadmap to exploring ICT opportunities for development 31

Former US Treasury Secretary to invest in Nigeria Regina Otokpa

ormer Secretary of United States Treasury, Mr John Snow, has expressed readiness to invest in various sectors of the economy with interest in revamping ailing companies through establishment of company -Cerberus Capital Management- in the country. Special Adviser of the company, former Prime Minister of Guinea, Kouyafe Lansana, speaking during a meeting with the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu in Abuja, disclosed that the company which was currently sitting on more than $30 billion was keen on investing in Nigeria, the strongest economy in Africa. He noted that the fight against corruption as initiated by the present administration was a welcome development towards providing a robust economic activity in the country, as more foreign investors were willing to invest in various sectors of the economy. He said: “We are here to present you to introduce Cerberus because we want to make investment in Nigeria. Cerberus capital management is sitting on more than $30 billion and why now and why Nigeria is because Nigeria is perceived as one of the strongest countries in Africa. “We are investing in almost all areas; science and technology, industry, agriculture, transport, aviation and railway but I should say that the predilection area for Cerberus is to revamp distressed companies that are bankrupt, they will come in and inject money to allow them pick up.” While stressing the importance of science and technology in fast tracking development, Lansana further noted that when established, the Abuja office would serve as the second in Africa after Egypt to be followed by a branch in Johannesburg to aid easy access to all other countries in the continent. Applauding the decision to invest in Nigeria, the Minister

of Science and Technology Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, said the country had numerous new technologies that had been developed but awaiting commercialisation. He said:”That investment into the country will help to commercialise those prototypes and at the level of pilot plant will be

of tremendous benefit both to the investor and to the general public because the goods that will be produced will go to the market place and it is not just for Nigeria it is for all countries of the world but we have to start with our brothers in the ECOWAS sub region. “We want to develop in key ar-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Chinese firm to assist Police in $470m CCTV project probe 32 AIRLINES’ FLIGHT SCHEDULES

eas, we want to be able to reduce import coming into the

country, we also want to be able to export goods out of the country so these too will help us to reduce the pressure on our currency, it will help us to fight poverty.

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

Chairman, Africa’s Matters Limited, United Kingdom, Baroness Linda Chalker of Wallasey, in warm handshake with the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun in her office in Abuja yesterday.

Experts advocate synergy on Local Content policies’ implementation

FRANCIS EZEM

irector in charge of Special Services of the corporation, the Ghana Petroleum Corporation, Mr. Boateng Ekwuku, has advocated international collaboration in the implementation of Local Content policies among countries across the African continent. Ekwuku, who spoke in an interview in Lagos, observed that most of the Local Content Policies in the continent including those of Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, among several others are national based. According to him, this does neither promote regional integration nor international collaborations and in effect hampers cross fertilisation of ideas, especially in terms of business growth and development. He also said that in addition to fostering regional integration

among African countries in the implementation of Local Content Policies, efforts should also be made to ensure that each implementing country should focus attention in the development of their area of strength, citing the instance of fabrication, which will in the long run promote regional trade. This it was furtherer gathered, would also encourage cross border mergers and partnerships, which is good for the region. He said: “In implementing the Local Content initiative in with the African region, efforts should be made to ensure that market failures are checked and that is why regional integration should be encouraged among the indigenous operators from the implementing countries as well as promoting international collaboration, which would bring about efficiency and better ways of doing things”.

Ekwuku also canvassed that while promoting indigenous participation in the oil and gas sector through the local content policy, African government should resist the temptation of overlooking international participation or removing it totally. Rather, he insisted that the African Governments should leverage on the strategies that would facilitate easy technology transfer. On the Local Content in Ghana, which was introduced about four years ago following the discovery of crude oil in commercial quantity, the Special Services Director said that the primary objectives of the policy include increasing local participation in the petroleum industry in the country. Others include, putting emphasis on the country’s capacity building as well as creating jobs, promote forward and backward integrations, etc.

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

Business News

Thursday, February 25, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CPC orders Multichoice to compensate DStv consumers Olufemi Adeosun, Abuja

he Consumer Protection Council (CPC) has ordered MultiChoice Nigeria Limited, owners of Digital Satellite Broadcast Television (DStv) service, to compensate consumers over the various rights abuses. CPC, the apex government agency in charge of consumer protection, had wielded the big stick after extensive investigation which revealed various infractions on the part MultiChoice Nigeria Limited in the provision of its Digital Satellite Broadcast Television (DStv) service. According to a statement issued by the Council, the company was ordered compensation across board to consumers for lost viewing time, introduction of local toll free lines; and reasonable equitable spread of popular sports channels, among others. The multinational pay-media company is also required to present written assurances in line with Section 10 of the Council’s enabling law that it will not engage in any conduct which is detrimental to the interest of consumers. Apart from that, the company shall, for 18 months from the date of the orders, subject its processes to the Council’s inspection to ensure compliance with the directives contained in the orders. During the course of the investigation, the Council ob-

served that the company’s billing system, whereby “billing is not contemporaneous with the provision of service” was not in the best interest of consumers and therefore ordered MultiChoice to install a billing system that ensures billing starts with the provision of service. The pay-television company was also ordered to within 90 days provide across board compensation to its subscribers, considering the fact that many of them have over time lost legitimate and paid viewing time by its conduct of not restoring service contemporaneously after payment as well as other instances of disruptions. Similarly, the company was also directed by CPC to within 180 days adopt a “technology that supports suspension of service when subscribers are otherwise unable to enjoy their service on account of being away for a limited period of time”, provided such a request for suspension of service is done for a period of between 7 to 14 days and not more than twice in a year with a 72hour notice to MultiChoice. On non-availability of popular channels in certain bouquets, the Council ordered the firm to within 90 days ensure “a reasonably equitable spread of popular sports and other channels hitherto concentrated in its premium bouquet over all available bouquets”. MultiChoice was also ordered to keep local and free-to-air chan-

Airtel adopts new school, pledges funding for schools Isaiah Erhiawarien

elecommunications service provider, Airtel Networks Limited, has reiterated its commitment of providing financial support to schools nationwide across the country. To this end, the telco has added a school, Yahaya Hamza Primary School, Zaria, Kaduna State, to the list of its adopted schools. The adoption, which was confirmed by the company’s Director of Communications and CSR, Emeka Oparah, when he visited the state’s Commissioner for Education, Dr. Shehu Usman Adamu, is in continuation of its education initiative, Adopt-a-School. According to him, , Airtel will adopt the school for an initial four-year period and will renovate the buildings, provide furniture, water borehole, modern toilet facilities,

uniforms and books for the pupils and training for the teachers. Oparah explained that the key objective of the company’s adoption of primary schools was to support the basic foundations of education and help in moulding the future leaders of our country Nigeria. Adamu, commended Airtel for the kind gesture, which he said was in line with the state government’s objective of investing in and developing education as a fundamental platform for national development. He promised to ensure that the teachers Airtel would train would not be posted out of the school so that the pupils and indeed the school would have the full benefit of the adoption. Airtel Nigeria has already adopted schools in Lagos, Ogun, Imo, Kwara and Cross River States.

nels open so that subscribers would have the opportunity of watching these channels, even when their subscriptions have expired. In order to aid easy and fast access to the company by subscribers who wish to make complaints

or enquiries, CPC directed MultiChoice not only to maintain local toll-free telephone access lines for its call centres, but should also ensure the call centres operate for longer hours during public holidays and weekends. MultiChoice was also directed to formulate within 90 days

a written compensation policy which should “outline amongst other things, the procedure for compensating subscribers for injury they suffer on account of MultiChoice conduct and take into consideration not just viewing time lost, but inconveniences suffered by subscribers”.

L-R: Chief Executive Officer of Multimix Academy, Dr Obiora Madu; Chairman of the Plenary Session, Mr Ekporwei Edike; Director, Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Mr William Ezeagu and Head, Strategic Planning Nexim Bank, Mr Tayo Omidiji, at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council Maritime Summit in Lagos yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

Onyema, NSE boss, appointed for new five-year term Johnson Okanlawon

he National Council of the Nigerian Stock Exchange has approved the renewal of contract of employment for Mr. Oscar N. Onyema, for another term of five years as Chief Executive Officer of the Exchange effective immediately. He has served as the CEO of the Exchange since April 2011 and his initial five years employment contract expires on March 31, 2016. Commenting on the renewal, President, National Council of NSE, Mr Aigboje Aig-Imokhuede, said that Onyema’s tenure as CEO of the NSE is marked by outstand-

ing achievements. According to him, the Council is confident that he can continue the Exchange’s trajectory of transformation, innovation and marketplace recognition by implementing its business strategies which he has been instrumental in developing. He noted that the leadership qualities that he has demonstrated in his first term as CEO, in the face of such intense and challenging operating environment, have been exemplary. “The Council believes that his vision and passion will ensure the Exchange remains a force to be reckoned with in Africa and be-

yond,” he said. Responding, Onyema said he was grateful to the Council for the opportunity given him to continue in office He said: “While there is still much to be accomplished, the support shown by the capital market community has been inspirational, and I look forward to working with the entire eco-system to meet our objectives.” On assumption of the role of CEO in April 2011, he developed the strategic plan to transform the Exchange into a globally competitive brand by stabilizing and professionalizing the Exchange.

FG reconstitutes NEITI’s Board

CHIDI UGWU, ABUJA

he Federal Government yesterday announced the reconstitution of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative’s (NEITI’s) Board. A statement signed by Donald Tyoachimin for the Acting Executive Secretary of NEITI, indicated that the constitution of the board was coming at a time when Nigeria is at the verge of being suspended from the global EITI owing to its inability to meet the publishing deadline for its 2013 oil and gas and solid minerals industry audit reports. This was because of the absence of a Board to approve the reports as stipulated in the NEITI Act and

EITI standards. The new Governing Board has the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Kayode Fayemi as Chairman. Members include: Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Finance, Group Managing Director, Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), President, Miners Association of Nigeria, Representative of the Civil Society Organizations (to be elected by CSOs), President, Nigeria Mining and Geosciences Society, President, Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG). Also on the Board are Hannatu Musa Musawa; representative, North-West Geo-Political zone, Mr. Lawan Gana Lantaiwa (Consul-

tant); representative, North-East Geo-Political Zone, Mr. Bernard B. A. Ver (Accountant); representative, North-Central Geo-Political Zone , Mrs. Anne Adaeze Onyekwena; representative, South-East Geo-Political Zone, Mr. Emmanuel Chiejina; representative, SouthSouth Geo-Political Zone, Mr. Gbenga Onayiga; and representative, South-West Geo-Political Zone and Mr. Waziri Onibiyo Adio who was appointed as the Executive Secretary. The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), stated thatthe new Executive Secretary would assume duties immediately while the new Governing Board will be inaugurated in due course.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Global News

Thursday, February 25, 2016

German business confidence in steepest drop since 2008

EU exit would risk jobs, says group of business bosses G L eaving the European Union would threaten jobs and put the UK’s economy at risk, leaders of some of Britain’s biggest companies have said. Bosses - including those of BT, Marks & Spencer and Vodafone - signed a letter published in the Times, saying an EU exit would deter investment in the UK. Leave campaigners point out twothirds of FTSE 100 firms, including Tesco and Sainsbury, did not back the letter. A referendum on whether the UK should stay in the EU will be held on 23 June. David Cameron earlier took questions from employees of mobile phone giant O2, one of the signatories of the letter, at its headquarters in Slough, on the first of a series of tour events to sell his pro-EU message to voters. The move is designed to reach beyond Westminster and the emerging divisions within the Tory party. The Mayor of London Boris Johnson, the most high-profile politician to back EU exit, has urged people to focus on the issues and played down

talk of ill feeling between him and the PM, saying “team spirit” within the party was good. In a move described by No 10 as “unprecedented”, chairmen or chief executives of 36 FTSE 100 companies signed the letter, organised by Stronger in Europe and Downing Street, backing the campaign to stay in the EU, including Burberry, BAE Systems and EasyJet. The FTSE bosses were among a total of 198 signatories from the business world, including the chief executives of Heathrow and Gatwick airports. However, nearly two-thirds of the UK’s largest publicly listed businesses did not sign, including RBS and Barclays. Asked about why the majority of FTSE 100 companies did not sign the letter, Mr Cameron said companies were often reluctant to “make any form of political statement”. But he added: “If the leave campaign could produce 35 business leaders of this sort of stature they’d be over the moon and I don’t think they have the prospect of doing that with

Carney

FTSE 100 leaders in any way.” On Boris Johnson’s decision to campaign against him, the prime minister said he had “huge respect” for the London Mayor and he had “great future in British politics” but added: “He has got it wrong on this one.” Media captionDavid Cameron: Boris Johnson has got this one wrong Bank of England governor Mark Carney, has meanwhile, said policymakers are “not making a judgment” on the outcome or consequences of the referendum.

U.S. government, Apple take encryption case to public opinion court

pple Inc on Monday urged the creation of a government panel on encryption, the latest salvo in a standoff over a locked iPhone linked to the San Bernardino shooting that has escalated into a public relations battle between the revered technology company and the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation. Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook also sent a letter to employees Monday morning, making clear the company’s hardline stance refusing to make software to unlock the phone addresses broader issues, not just a single device linked to a grisly attack. “This case is about much more than a single phone or a single investigation,” Cook said in the email to employees, seen by Reuters. “At stake is the data security of hundreds of millions of law-abiding people, and setting a dangerous precedent that threatens everyone’s civil liberties.”

Cook

But FBI Director James Comey, in an article published late Sunday on the national security legal blog Lawfare, asserted the case was not about setting a new legal precedent but rather about “victims and justice.” “Fourteen people were slaughtered and many more had their lives and bodies ruined,” Comey wrote. “We owe them a thorough and professional investigation under law. That’s what this is.” A federal judge last week ordered Apple to create new software and take others steps to retrieve data from the locked phone, used by Syed Rizwan Farook, one of the San Bernardino shooters, who was killed in a gun battle with police. This move also received support from Microsoft Corp founder Bill Gates, who said technology companies should be forced to co-operate with law enforcement in terrorism investigations, the Financial Times reported late Monday. (on. ft.com/1UjDWgz) “This is a specific case where the government is asking for access to information. They are not asking for some general thing, they are asking for a particular case,” Gates told the Financial Times. Gates’ decision sets him apart from other Silicon Valley top executives, such as Facebook Inc chief Mark Zuckerberg, Twitter Inc founder Jack Dorsey and Google head Sundar Pichai, who have all backed

Cook’s decision, the newspaper added. The company is fighting the order, arguing that creating such a key will jeopardize the security of all iPhones. The company’s formal legal arguments are expected Friday. The Justice Department’s manoeuvres over the past week have prompted Apple supporters to suggest the case is as much about putting political pressure on Apple and influencing the broader policy debate on encryption as it is about getting data from Farook’s phone. The Justice Department launched its unusually public campaign to force Apple’s hand by publicizing the court order itself, which normally would have been under seal, according to legal experts. Then, on Friday, the Justice Department filed additional court papers that repeated its legal arguments and criticized the company’s resistance as a “brand marketing strategy.” The government acknowledged that the Friday filing was “not legally necessary.” Apple responded hours later by holding a conference call with reporters - a rare move by a generally reticent company that is accustomed to making news rather than reacting to it. That was followed early Monday by a public blog post and an internal email to employees arguing the company’s case. Meanwhile, the government has actively solicited victims of the shooting to join its case against Apple.

erman business confidence suffered its steepest drop since 2008, according to a widely watched survey by Ifo institute. The fall, the third in a row, left the Ifo business climate index at 105.7 from 107.3 in January. Economists had forecast a slip to 106.8. The fall is being blamed on a drop in demand for German goods in emerging markets. It leaves business morale at its lowest level in more than a year. The survey, which is based on monthly responses from around 7,000 firms in Germany, suggests that companies are concerned about the economic outlook for the next six months. Europe’s largest economy has suffered from a drop in demand from emerging markets in Asia and Latin America, Carsten Brzeski of ING Bank said the numbers were a “wake up call”. He added that “global

German Chancellor, Angela Merkel

events have finally reached German companies’ boardrooms”. German companies have been relying on a strong US economy to offset the falling exports to China, Brazil and other emerging markets. Ifo President Hans-Werne Sinn said the outlook for the German economy was worrying. “The majority of companies were pessimistic about their business outlook for the first time in over six months.”

Egypt black-market pound slumps as officials resist devaluation

gypt’s pound weakened to a record in unregulated trading as demand for U.S. dollars rose in the face of a central bank assurance that it won’t devalue the currency. The pound’s street rate fell to 9.12 per dollar, from 9.09 last week, according to the average of quotes from four dealers in Cairo and Alexandria surveyed by Bloomberg. That’s the lowest level since the weekly surveys started in April 2013 and represents a 14 per cent discount to the official exchange rate the central bank has maintained since November. Policy makers in North Africa’s biggest economy are struggling to alleviate a shortage of foreign currency even as they balk at allowing the pound to devalue in an attempt to contain one of the Middle East’s highest inflation rates. Central-bank Governor Tarek Amer said this week he has “no intention” of letting the currency depreciate

Amer

after increasing the limit for dollar deposits in local banks for some companies. The pound’s decline “reflects pent-up demand that was released after the central bank raised the dollar deposit caps,” said Ziad Waleed, an economist at Cairo-based Beltone Financial. “We expect the pound to weaken further because there are no new inflows to ease the pressure on the currency and reserves are too low to allow officials to defend it.” Egypt has spent billions of dollars since the election of President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi in June 2014 to prop up the pound, helping limit its depreciation over that period to 8.7 per cent. That didn’t stop the black market rate from weakening more than twice that much. The dollar drain has left foreign reserves at the equivalent of about three months of the nation’s imports. The central bank may opt for a sharp increase in interest rates when it meets next month in order to defend the currency, Waleed said in a research report published earlier Tuesday. The government yesterday cut its growth forecast for the fiscal year that ends in June to a maximum of 4.25 per cent, down from a previous estimate of five per cent, because of the negative impact on tourism after the downing of a Russian passenger jet in October. Currency dealers surveyed by Bloomberg ask not to be identified because trading outside official price limits violates centralbank rules.

Capital Market

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, February 25, 2016 Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032

Stock exchange daily equities summary Daily Summary (Equities)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016

HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Pharmaceuticals Totals

Equities as at February 24, 2016

Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032

Daily Summary (Bonds)

1st Tier Securities

Company name

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY 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 17 13 30

Current Price 30.00 34.00

Quantity Traded 110,393 54,975 165,368

Value Traded 3,325,987.28 1,896,925.90 5,222,913.18

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 7 7

Current Price 1.14

Quantity Traded 227,500 227,500

Value Traded 260,210.00 260,210.00

392,868

5,483,123.18

Quantity Traded 19,000 650 2,595,229 368,707 2,983,586

Value Traded 15,200.00 2,216.50 2,796,562.37 7,349,400.63 10,163,379.50

2,983,586 Quantity Traded 2,500 2,500 Page

10,163,379.50 Value Traded 34,350.00 34,350.00 12 1 of

AGRICULTURE Totals

Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 CONGLOMERATES Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. CHELLARAMS PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY Diversified Industries Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE CONGLOMERATES Totals Building Structure/Completion/Other G CAPPA PLC Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals

Symbol AGLEVENT CHELLARAM Daily Summary TRANSCORP UACN

Symbol GCAPPA

UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION BREW.ESTATE PLC. CONSTRUCTION/REAL GUINNESS NIG PLC Building Structure/Completion/Other INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. G CAPPA PLC NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Beverages--Non-Alcoholic JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

No. of Deals 1 2 (Equities) 51 29 83 83 No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 0.77 3.58 1.08 20.00

Current Price 14.46

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 41.50

Quantity Traded 2,607 2,607

Value Traded 113,221.60 113,221.60

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 8 8

Current Price 5.01

Quantity Traded 233,966 233,966

Value Traded 1,174,034.60 1,174,034.60

239,073

1,321,606.20

Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 Real Estate Development

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol CHAMPION GUINNESS Symbol INTBREW GCAPPA NB Symbol Symbol JBERGER 7UP Symbol UAC-PROP

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals

No. of Deals 5 28 No. of Deals 14 4 156 4 203 No. of Deals No. of Deals 4 18 4 18 No. of Deals 8 8

Current Price 2.58 Current113.00 Price 19.50 14.46 100.10 Current Price Current 41.50 Price 170.00 Current Price 5.01

Quantity Traded 125,500 Quantity217,346 Traded 1,144,018 2,500 2,072,381 2,500 3,559,245 Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 2,607 97,070 2,607 97,070 Quantity Traded 233,966 233,966 Page

Value Traded 324,440.00 24,573,677.65 Value Traded 22,312,991.18 34,350.00 207,448,309.33 34,350.00 254,659,418.16 Value Traded Value Traded 113,221.60 16,538,789.75 113,221.60 16,538,789.75 Value Traded 1,174,034.60 1,174,034.60 2 of 12

239,073

1,321,606.20

CONSUMER GOODS

Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016

CHAMPION BREW. PLC. Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 GUINNESS NIG PLC INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Activity Summary on Board EQTY 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals CONSUMER GOODS Food Products DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC N NIG. FLOUR MILLS PLC. TIGER BRANDED CONSUMER GOODS PLC Food Products Totals Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals Household Daily Summary as Durables of 24/02/2016

VITAFOAM NIG PLC. Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 Household Durables Totals

Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals

Symbol CHAMPION GUINNESS INTBREW NB

No. of Deals 5 28 14 156 (Equities) 203

Current Price 2.58 113.00 19.50 100.10

Quantity Traded 125,500 217,346 1,144,018 2,072,381 3,559,245

Value Traded 324,440.00 24,573,677.65 22,312,991.18 207,448,309.33 254,659,418.16

Symbol 7UP

No. of Deals 18 18

Current Price 170.00

Quantity Traded 97,070 97,070

Value Traded 16,538,789.75 16,538,789.75

Symbol DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON NNFM TIGERBRANDS

No. of Deals 26 30 23 24 5 37 145

Current Price 5.60 19.30 1.37 7.10 6.65 1.30

Quantity Traded 132,413 165,299 Page 685,895 378,100 9,260 1,634,587 3,005,554

Value Traded 714,342.72 12 2 3,175,039.50 of 940,275.10 2,665,480.50 59,026.12 2,126,889.20 9,681,053.14

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 10 80 90

Current Price 17.50 700.00

Quantity Traded 50,809 67,760 118,569

Value Traded 864,171.90 47,637,072.48 48,501,244.38

No. of Deals 7 7

Current Price 4.46

Quantity Traded 43,000 43,000

Value Traded 176,350.00 176,350.00

Symbol PZ Summary Daily UNILEVER

No. of Deals 26 (Equities) 32 58

Current Price 21.90 26.81

Quantity Traded 116,814 388,605 505,419

Value Traded 2,568,915.02 10,438,315.46 13,007,230.48

7,328,857

342,564,085.91

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

No. of Deals 204 65 29 48 223 39 9 189 19 5 23 (Equities) 853

Current Price 4.05 1.38 15.20 1.14 16.06 0.97 1.70 2.77 5.05 0.71 0.97

Quantity Traded 20,241,256 6,017,548 Page 1,072,567

Daily Summary

Symbol VITAFOAM

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

CONSUMER GOODS Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC Published by The NigerianTRANSNATIONAL Stock Exchange ©INCORPORATED ECOBANK FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. Banking Totals Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AFRICAN ALLIANCE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC AIICO INSURANCE FINANCIAL SERVICES PLC. CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC AXAMANSARD INSURANCE PLC MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

521

Daily Summary Symbol AFRINSURE AIICO CONTINSURE Symbol

INTENEGINS MANSARD MBENEFIT NEM WAPIC

Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Micro-Finance Banks Totals

Symbol NPFMCRFBK

Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 FCMB GROUP PLC. Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UNITED CAPITAL PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FCMB STANBIC UCAP

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals

20,432,452 11,230,970 3,994,206 2,932,192 17,111,067 93,604 104,000 1,535,656 84,765,518

Value Traded 82,167,719.82 8,138,223.12 12 316,286,474.47 of 23,319,903.03 180,787,559.43 3,910,724.94 5,122,333.45 48,741,623.09 474,472.29 72,220.00 1,474,402.32 370,495,655.96

No. of Deals Current Price 1 0.50 19 0.81 1 Current Price 0.93 No. of Deals 2 0.50 8 1.96 7 0.50 8 0.73 2 0.50 48

Quantity Traded 100 1,441,075 959 Quantity Traded

Value Traded 50.00 1,167,591.52 Value 891.87 Traded

200,000 465,136 358,487 242,000 8,999 2,716,756

100,000.00 911,666.56 179,243.50 173,970.00 4,499.50 2,537,912.95

No. of Deals 7 7

Current Price 1.03

Quantity Traded 448,125 Page 448,125

Value Traded 4 461,578.75 of 12 461,578.75

No. of Deals 31 20 161 11 34 257

Current Price 2.53 4.10 0.76 14.15 1.35

Quantity Traded 2,167,514 1,570,533 114,131,390 142,156 3,841,018 121,852,611

Value Traded 5,477,536.84 6,425,718.23 87,587,558.12 2,026,467.44 5,160,573.66 106,677,854.29

209,783,010

480,173,001.95

Daily Summary (Equities) 1,165

HEALTHCARE

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Pharmaceuticals EVANS MEDICAL PLC. HEALTHCARE FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC Pharmaceuticals GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. Published by The Stock Exchange MAYNigerian & BAKER NIGERIA PLC.© NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Pharmaceuticals Totals

Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON Symbol GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER NEIMETH

HEALTHCARE Totals ICT Processing Systems E-TRANZACT INTERNATIONAL PLC Processing Systems Totals ICT Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC.

No. of Deals 1 3 No. of Deals 16 11 2 33

Current Price 0.50 2.69 Current Price 25.33 0.94 0.66

Symbol ETRANZACT

No. of Deals 2 2

No. of Deals 8 2 13 32 5 27

Quantity Traded 1 15,000 Quantity Traded 23,316 Page 950,032 2,808 991,157 991,157

Current Price 3.10

Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER CAP CCNN PORTPAINT WAPCO

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

1st Tier Securities

Daily Summary (Equities)

No Of Deals

No. of Deals 16 11 2 33

HEALTHCARE Totals

No Debt Trading Activity

Sector

Symbol GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER NEIMETH

Current Price 24.00 9.30 35.78 8.62 3.36 84.52

Quantity Traded 8,000 8,000

Value Traded 0.50 38,400.00 Value Traded 574,773.32 12 5 880,520.08 of 1,809.04 1,495,502.94 1,495,502.94

Value Traded 26,000.00 26,000.00

8,000

26,000.00

Quantity Traded 54,535 2,000 39,836 398,013 125,500 59,417

Value Traded 1,309,981.18 18,065.00 1,494,739.32 3,103,011.27 402,030.00 4,804,534.62

Sector

ICT Totals Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 INDUSTRIAL GOODS Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC PORTLAND & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC Activity SummaryPAINTS on Board EQTY LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals Building Materials Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 Packaging/Containers BETA GLASS CO PLC. Packaging/Containers Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals NATURAL RESOURCES Chemicals B.O.C. GASES INDUSTRIAL GOODSPLC. Chemicals Totals Electronic and Electrical Products

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

CUTIX PLC. NATURAL RESOURCES Totals Electronic and Electrical Products Totals OIL AND GAS Packaging/Containers Energy Equipment and Services BETA GLASS CO PLC. JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Packaging/Containers Totals Energy Equipment and Services Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC NATURAL RESOURCES Integrated Chemicals Oil and Gas Services Totals B.O.C. GASES PLC. Chemicals Totals

Symbol ETRANZACT

No Of Deals

No. of Deals 2

Integrated Oil and Services Activity Summary onGas Board EQTY

OANDO PLC OILIntegrated AND GASOil and Gas Services Totals Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 PRODUCT PLC BECO PETROLEUM Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 CONOIL PLC Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Activity Summary on BoardProducts EQTY Distributors Totals Petroleum and Petroleum OILExploration AND GAS and Production Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD BECO PETROLEUM PRODUCT Exploration and Production TotalsPLC CONOIL PLC OIL AND GAS Totals ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. SERVICES MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. R T BRISCOE PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals Courier/Freight/Delivery Exploration and Production RED STAR EXPRESS PLC SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals Exploration and Production Totals Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 OIL ANDas GAS Totals Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 Daily Summary of 24/02/2016 Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 SERVICES Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Automobile/Auto Part Retailers R T BRISCOE PLC. Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Courier/Freight/Delivery Activity Summary on Board EQTY RED STAR EXPRESS PLC

SERVICES Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals Printing/Publishing SERVICES ACADEMY PRESS PLC. Hotels/Lodging LEARN AFRICA PLC IKEJA HOTEL PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY Printing/Publishing TotalsPLC TRANSCORP HOTELS Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Hotels/Lodging Totals SERVICES Transport-Related Services Printing/Publishing AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC Printing/Publishing ACADEMY PRESS PLC. NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC LEARN AFRICA PLC Transport-Related Services Totals Printing/Publishing Totals Support and Logistics Transport-Related Services Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 C & I LEASING PLC. AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 Support and Logistics Totals NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals SERVICES Totals Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 Support and Logistics PrintedEQTY 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 Totals PLC. CBoard & I LEASING Support and Logistics Totals

Activity Summary on Board ASeM SERVICES Totals CONSUMER GOODS Activity Summary on Board ASeM Food Products EQTY Board Totals Food Products Totals CONSUMER GOODS

Activity FoodSummary Products on Board ASeM CONSUMER GOODS Totals MCNICHOLS PLC CONSUMER GOODS

FoodSummary Products on Board ASeM Activity ASeM Board Totals

Food Products Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © CONSUMER GOODS CONSUMER GOODS Totals Food Published by The Products Nigerian Stock Exchange © MCNICHOLS PLC

Activity Summary on Board PREMIUM ASeM Board Totals

FINANCIAL SERVICES Published byBanking The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Daily Summary as of 24/02/2016 ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC PrintedActivity 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 Summary Banking Totals on Board PREMIUM FINANCIAL SERVICES Other Financial Institutions Banking Daily Summary asHOLDINGS of 24/02/2016 FBN PLC ZENITH INTERNATIONAL Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 Other Financial Institutions BANK TotalsPLC Banking Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals PREMIUM Activity Summary on Board Other Financial Institutions INDUSTRIAL GOODS PLC FBN HOLDINGS INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials Other Financial Institutions INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals Totals DANGOTE CEMENT PLC Activity Summary on Totals Board FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals PREMIUM Building Materials

Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER Daily Summary CAP CCNN PORTPAINT WAPCO Symbol CUTIX

Symbol BETAGLAS

No. of Deals Current Price 8 24.00 2 9.30 (Equities) 13 35.78 32 8.62 5 3.36 27 84.52 87 No. of Deals Current Price 9 1.58 9 No. of Deals 4 4

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol BOCGAS Symbol CUTIX

Symbol Symbol BETAGLAS JAPAULOIL

Symbol OANDO Symbol BOCGAS

Equity Totals Exchange Traded Published by Activity The Nigerian StockFund Exchange © Name VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals

9 1 9 No. of Deals No. of Deals 4 2 4 2 100 No. of Deals 165 165 No. of Deals 1 1

VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF Traded Fund Totals ETPExchange Activity Totals

Value Traded 574,773.32 880,520.08 1,809.04 1,495,502.94

991,157

1,495,502.94

Quantity Traded 8,000

Value Traded 26,000.00

8,000

26,000.00

Quantity Traded 54,535 2,000 39,836 398,013 125,500 59,417 679,301 Quantity Traded 160,429 160,429

Value Traded 1,309,981.18 18,065.00 1,494,739.32 3,103,011.27 402,030.00 4,804,534.62 11,132,361.39 Value Traded 249,197.82 249,197.82

Page Quantity Traded 14,771 14,771

6 of 12 Value Traded 703,372.50 703,372.50

Current Price 3.79 Current Price 1.58

Current Price Current Price 50.00 0.50

Current Price 3.30 Current Price 3.79

854,501

12,084,931.71

Quantity Traded 14,500 14,500 Quantity Traded

Value Traded 53,650.00 53,650.00 Value Traded

160,429 14,500 160,429

249,197.82 53,650.00 249,197.82

Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 14,771 1,081,700 14,771 1,081,700

Value Traded Value Traded 703,372.50 540,850.00 703,372.50 540,850.00

854,501 Quantity Traded 7,081,758 7,081,758 Quantity Traded

12,084,931.71 Value Traded 23,290,093.86 23,290,093.86 Value Traded

14,500 14,500

53,650.00 53,650.00

Page 14,500

12 of 53,650.00

Symbol JAPAULOIL

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 1,081,700 1,081,700

Value Traded 540,850.00 540,850.00

Symbol OANDO

No. of Deals 165 165

Current Price 3.30

Quantity Traded 7,081,758 7,081,758

Value Traded 23,290,093.86 23,290,093.86

No. of Deals 1 4 7 8 10 (Equities) 5 9 44

Current Price 0.50 18.34 1.85 342.00 149.50 49.66 145.00

Quantity Traded 90,000 4,900 Page 106,500

Value Traded 45,000.00 85,416.00 7 of 12 195,370.00

9,100 33,748 3,342 5,526 253,116

2,956,590.00 4,990,257.56 157,675.56 778,607.06 9,208,916.18

Symbol Symbol SEPLAT BECOPETRO CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL Symbol MRS RTBRISCOE TOTAL

No. of Deals No. of Deals 14 141 4 2257 8 10 No. of Deals 5 2 9 2 44

Current Price Current318.00 Price 0.50 18.34 1.85 342.00 149.50 Current Price 49.66 0.50 145.00

Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 26,693 90,000 26,693 4,900 8,443,267 106,500 9,100 33,748 Quantity Traded 3,342 31,956 5,526 31,956 253,116

Value Traded Value Traded 8,803,954.15 45,000.00 8,803,954.15 85,416.00 41,843,814.19 195,370.00 2,956,590.00 4,990,257.56 Value Traded 157,675.56 15,978.00 778,607.06 15,978.00 9,208,916.18

Symbol Symbol REDSTAREX SEPLAT

No. of Deals No. of Deals 2 14 2 14

Current Price Current Price 3.80 318.00

Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 5,200 26,693 5,200 26,693

Value Traded Value Traded 20,748.00 8,803,954.15 20,748.00 8,803,954.15

Daily Summary (Equities)

Symbol BECOPETRO CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL Daily Summary MRS TOTAL

225

8,443,267

41,843,814.19

Current Price 0.50

Page Quantity Traded 31,956 31,956

8 of 12 Value Traded 15,978.00 15,978.00

No. of Deals Current Price 2 3.80 2 Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Daily Summary (Equities) ACADEMY 1 Current Price 0.55 Symbol No. of Deals LEARNAFRCA 82 0.87 IKEJAHOTEL 2.89 91 TRANSCOHOT 5.51 3 Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Symbol No. of Deals Current Price AIRSERVICE 2 Current Price 2.29 Symbol No. of Deals ACADEMY 1 0.55 NAHCO 31 4.00 LEARNAFRCA 8 0.87 33 9

Quantity Traded 5,200 5,200 Quantity Traded 6,720 Quantity Traded 990,000 16,998 996,720 18,147 Page 35,145 Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 5,588 Quantity Traded 6,720 3,392,395 990,000 3,397,983 996,720

Value Traded 20,748.00 20,748.00 Value Traded Value3,561.60 Traded 861,300.00 46,744.50 864,861.60 95,090.28 12 8 of 141,834.78 Value Traded Value Traded 12,181.84 Value Traded 3,561.60 13,578,783.01 861,300.00 13,590,964.85 864,861.60

Current Price Current Price 0.50 2.29 4.00

Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 10 5,588 10 3,392,395

Value Traded Value Traded 5.00 12,181.84 5.00 13,578,783.01

3,397,983 4,467,014

13,590,964.85 14,634,392.23

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

909,843,487.81 5.00

Quantity Traded 235,505,833 10 10

4,467,014

14,634,392.23

Current Price

Quantity Traded 235,505,833 200,000

909,843,487.81 234,000.00

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

Quantity Traded 200,000 200,000

Value Traded 234,000.00 234,000.00

Symbol

No. of Deals 2 2

RTBRISCOE Daily Summary (Equities) Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol REDSTAREX

Symbol Symbol CILEASING AIRSERVICE NAHCO

No. of Deals No. of Deals 1 2 1 31 33 50

2,233 1

CILEASING

Daily Summary (Equities) Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol

No. of Deals 2,2336

6 No. of Deals 6

Current Price 1.23

Page Quantity200,000 Traded 200,000

No. of Deals 499 499

Current Price 10.87

Page Quantity Traded 23,771,701 23,771,701

12 10Value Traded of 261,849,114.41 261,849,114.41

No. of Deals No. of Deals 206 499 206 499 705 No. of Deals 206 (Equities) No. of Deals 206 58 58 705 58

Current Price Current Price 3.47 10.87

Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 9,916,054 23,771,701 9,916,054 23,771,701 33,687,755 Quantity Traded 9,916,054 Quantity Traded 9,916,054 107,648 107,648 33,687,755 107,648

Value Traded Value Traded 34,480,127.41 261,849,114.41 34,480,127.41 261,849,114.41 296,329,241.82 Value Traded 34,480,127.41 Value Traded 34,480,127.41 14,394,929.26 14,394,929.26 296,329,241.82 14,394,929.26

58 No. of 3,002 Deals 58 58 763

Current Price 133.00

Daily Summary (Equities) ZENITHBANK Symbol FBNH Daily Summary Symbol DANGCEM

Quantity Traded 200,000 200,000 Page

200,000

Current Price 3.47 Current Price 133.00

33,795,403

763

Symbol DANGCEM

Value Traded

1.23

Symbol Symbol FBNH

5.00

Current Price

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol ZENITHBANK

Value Traded

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol MCNICHOLS

0.50

No. of Deals 6 6

MCNICHOLS

Symbol

Daily Summary (ETP)

9Value of 12 234,000.00 Traded 234,000.00

234,000.00

310,724,171.08

269,501,236 Page 1,220,801,658.89 11 of 12

No. of Deals 1 1

Symbol VETGRIF30

No. of Deals 1 1

Daily Summary (ETP)

Value Traded 234,000.00 234,000.00 of 12

Page 1,220,801,658.89 11 of 12 107,648 14,394,929.26 269,501,236 Quantity Traded Value Traded 107,648 14,394,929.26 107,648 14,394,929.26 33,795,403 310,724,171.08

3,002 Symbol VETGRIF30

Exchange Traded Fund

ETFName Board Totals

Current Price 50.00

100

No. of Deals 1 No. of Deals1

Quantity Traded 23,316 950,032 2,808 991,157

Quantity Traded Shares(N) 8,000 Value of 26,000.00

PREMIUM Board Totals

INDUSTRIAL GOODS INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Equity Activity Totals Building Materials DANGOTE CEMENT PLC Building Materials Totals PREMIUM Board Totals

Current Price 3.10

Quotation(N) 2

Daily Summary of 24/02/2016 Published by Theas Nigerian Stock Exchange NATURAL RESOURCES Totals © Printed 24/02/2016 14:36:32.032 OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals

Current Price 25.33 0.94 0.66

Current Price 10.97

Quantity Traded 912 912

Current Price 10.97

Quantity Traded 912 912 912

Value Traded 10,004.64 10,004.64 10,004.64

912

Value Traded 10,004.64 10,004.64

10,004.64

ETF Board Totals

912

10,004.64

ETP Activity Totals

912

10,004.64

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Info Tech

Charting roadmap to exploring ICT opportunities for development

Globally, Information and Communication Technology, ICT, has become an enabling tool for fasttracking national development but more particularly, in exploring national economic potential for improved socio-economic well being of the citizenry. In Nigeria, efforts to use ICT as a springboard for socio-economic development have been hampered by various challenges, with little to show still for substantial investments on key ICT tools and solutions especially in the public sector. In this report, REGINA OTOKPA takes a look at Shittu the roadmap recently developed by stakeholders in the sector to re- smart government, human capital capacbuilding and Local content developverse the worrisome development ity ment, the stakeholders noted the need for

rom broadband penetration to last mile fibre optic connectivity, infrastructure deficit has continued to be the bane of ICT development in the country. But then, that is not to say that considerable efforts had not been made in the past to mainstream ICT into key sectors of the economy in the drive towards its sustainable development. For many years the communication sector has been confronted with numerous challenges propelled by lack of an integrated framework to enhance the utilisation of Information Communication Technology (ICT) for socio-economic development. Only recently the Minister of Communications, Barrister Adebayo Shittu, and other relevant stakeholders in the communication sector developed a road map during the maiden edition of the 2016 Communications Sector Retreat held in Ibadan in a renewed effort to reposition the sector. Speaking during the retreat, the Minister had harped on the need to continue with the policy of liberalisation which he said “has propelled growth in the ICT sector”. He went further to indicate the need to nurture an explosive growth in the ICT sector that would cover every nook and cranny of the country. The stakeholders brainstormed on the possibilities therein the use of ICT to generate employment through Local Content and Innovation, enhance wealth acceleration and economic diversification through an Increase in government revenue from ICT Sector. Drawing up a road map with focus on Infrastructural development, broadband development to improve quality of service,

speedy implementation of the National Broadband Plan, the much needed pillar to fast track ICT development. Also noted to fill up the identified gaps in the sector was the implementation of a policy that would encourage service providers to make use of renewable energy to power the base transceiver stations for improved access and quality of service, accelerating the bridging of knowledge skill gap in the nation’s ICT Skills set ecosystem, promotion of initiatives to advance innovation and creativity, and the implementation of the National Addressing Policy to promote national security and support e-commerce in the country. The stakeholders had further maintained that engaging the ministry of education to ensure a mandatory ICT education at the Primary level and alignment of the ICT educational curriculum Research and Development would be a leap in meeting up with current global trends and also, encouraging implementers of e-services to incentivise users to migrate to higher technologies in order to promote ICT utilisation and exploitation across all sectors of the economy. According to them the creation of a sustainable funding framework for the implementation o f the e-government master

Adewumi plan and other ICT initiatives of government through active engagement with the private sector, implementation of the Local Content Guidelines to ensure patronage of indigenous products and services, as well as an increase in the participation of Nigerians in the ICT economy including compulsory patronage of NIGCOMSAT by all government MDAs and the organised private sector would be a plus to development of ICT in Nigeria. It was agreed that the passage of the Nigeria Postal Commission Bill would optimise the capacity of the Nigerian Postal Services (NIPOST) to become relevant for improved service delivery, bridge the digital divide towards inclusive development and to this end, moved for an accelerated passage of the bill as well as championed the call on the National Assembly to expedite action on all matters requiring legislative actions such as ICT development and cybercrime laws. Similarly, the industry experts charged the Federal Government to ensure that ICT infrastructure across the country is declared a critical national infrastructure as applicable in the Power, Oil and Gas sector, including the enforcement of mandatory regulation of equipment specifications and standards in order to reduce cybercrime and improve cyber security. Professionals in their fields, the stakeholders stressed that the government

The industry experts charged the Federal Government to ensure that ICT infrastructure across the country is declared a critical national infrastructure as applicable in the Power, Oil and Gas sector, including the enforcement of mandatory regulation of equipment specifications and standards in order to reduce cybercrime and improve cyber security

must put into consideration possible partnership with service providers on the implementation of free hotspots across the country in carrying out one of its responsibilities of Corporate Social Responsibility to the citizens, subsidisation of cost of data for access government e-services and establishment of IT parks, innovation hubs and labs to boost employment creation. In addition, they urged the government to implement the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) to cover budgeting, procurement, monitoring & evaluation and all other government processes in order to reduce cost, ensure efficiency and transparency, even as they called for the provision of free broadband by the Tertiary Trust Fund (TETFUND) and Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) in all educational institutions across the country. According to the immediate past President of the Nigeria Computer society, Professor David Adewunmi, the current administration has shown beyond reasonable doubt, intentions of developing the ICT sector to meet up with other nations of the world. He lauded the road map drawn at the end of the two day retreat, saying “the plans being put in place by this administration is okay, as far as I am concerned they are very good. What we are looking at now is the implementation of these road maps but with the present posture of the current government, I am positive that we will achieve something tangible.” Commenting on the subsidization cost of data to enhance increased access to gov-

ernment’s e-services, he maintained that government was on the right track of serving the citizens to enable them participate in e-services conveniently and affordable.

Info Tech

Thursday, February 25, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Chinese firm to assist Police in $470m CCTV project probe Stories by Isaiah Erhiawarien

he Chinese telecommunications company, ZTE, which was awarded the contract for the construction of the $470 million National Public Security Communication System (NPSCS) project, has offered to assist in the probe of the project by the Federal Government. In a statement issued in Lagos, the Managing Director of the company, Mr. Hao Fuqiang, said that the probe will finally put to rest all public misconceptions about the project issue “We are sure we will come out clean. We have consistently maintained that the project was fully completed and final texts completed. The Acceptance certificates are available for scrutiny”, Fuqiang said. According to him, ZTE is proud that it built and delivered one of the most sophisticated security communication tools for the Nigerian government and Nigerian people. He explained: “We believe the probe will unraveled why the

equipment’s were left unutilised and allowed to waste. “Though this is the third time this project is being probed, we welcome it and will give full cooperation to the committee because it is an opportunity for us to state our own side of the story. We hope that the government will do all within its powers to resuscitate this very important project.” The ZTE boss disclosed that the NPSCS project is made up of five components or subsystems, Global Open Trunking Architecture (GoTa) Sub-system, Video Surveillance Subsystem, Video Conferencing subsystem, The Epolicing subsystem and Coalition Emergency Response subsystem. He stated that the dominant component of the system is a CDMA based Voice and data Telecommunications system with National coverage noting that it operates through 2Nos Mobile Switch Centre (MSC) with one each in Lagos and Abuja, 12Nos Base Station Controller (BSC), 675 Base Transceiver Station (BTS) and 21 Microwave repeaters. He pointed out that the Video

Alcatel’s IDOL 3 smartphone debuts

lcatel Onetouch, a brand within Hong Kong based TCL Communication company has brought into Nigeria another high end device known as IDOL 3 smartphone. Regional Director, Alcatel Onetouch, Nigeria and Central Africa, Nick Imudia, who announced the arrival of the device in the Nigerian market said that the flagship product delivers an excellent Android experience with a 5.5inch display screen and an ultra slim body at a very affordable price. He said that the IDOL 3 smartphone is packed with components and software, designed with partners noting that it comes with JBL audio with two front-facing speakers and Clari-Fi technology which gives users the power of professional hi-fi audio components in the palm of their hands, to play their own music or stream tracks over the airwaves. Imudia clarified: “One of our goals at Alcatel Onetouch is to bring premium quality to affordable price points. With the IDOL 3, we’ve literally turn the market upside down to ensure that the average Nigerian is able to use a premium product. We’ve extensively researched the Nigerian market and discovered that the Nigerians are stylish and their phone is not just for work but also an expression of the personality. “The IDOL 3’s premium design,

superb sound, and unique reversibility feature makes it the ideal product for the technology savvy and style conscious consumer”, he added. The IDOL 3 has been engineered with components such as two front facing JBL certified speakers. A next generation sensor supports 13 megapixels of camera prowess for shots in the dark, indoors or for macro close-ups. A feature exclusive to the phone is its complete reversibility, users can grab and use their phone upside down.

Surveillance Subsystem comprises of 2000 surveillance cameras with a thousand each installed in Abuja and Lagos respectively. Fuqiang clarified: “This is the easily noticed component of the project. The application of solar solutions in this subsystem was informed by the electricity power challenges in the country and the need to ensure sustained operations of the cameras wher-

ever they are installed. This component is only about 12 per cent of the total package of the project.” Concerning the Video Conferencing subsystem, he stated the subsystem provides a platform for real time video conferencing for the Nigeria Police Force across all commands and the Force Headquarter. He hinted further that all the five components were full com-

L-R: Rector, the Polytechnic, Prof. Olatunde Fawole; ICAN President, Otunba Samuel Deru and Registrar ICAN, Mr Rotimi Omotoso at the inauguration of lecture theater donated to the Polytechnic IBADAN by ICAN yesterday.

New Horizons plans ICT skills’ competition for pupils

ew Horizons Computer Learning Centre, a private information and communications technology, ICT, training institute, has offered to drill pupils of secondary school across the country on ICT skills as part of its strategy of grooming them for a profitable career. The General Manager, Education Services, of New Horizons, Mr. Bolaji Olaoye said that to achieve that objective, the company will organise an Under 17

National ICT competition that will boost and elevate ICT curriculum and skills empowerment in primary and secondary schools of pupils. He disclosed that the competition, which is expected to hold from February to March 2016, is part of New Horizons corporate social responsibility will serve as a catalyst to bridge the knowledge gaps between Nigerian youths and their counterparts in other technology – driven countries of the world. According to him, the compe-

subscriber has to do, to enjoy this package is to subscribe to any of Globacom’s bumper data offers and then register as a member on the Netflix platform after an initial free trial period. All the data plans are Netflix compatible. The telco also assured subscribers of pleasurable experience as soon as they migrate to the Netflix platform. Two Glo Bumper Data offers on the Glo network launched recently, would give subscribers seamless and lengthy data experiences. With N3, 000 data subscription, subscribers will get a huge 6GB data, valid for one month and those subscrib-

ing for N4000 plan will get 9GB data, also valid for a month. To enjoy Netflix and other data experience, Globacom has also lined up other data packages including the N5,000 plan which gives 12GB data, the N8,000 plan which gives 24 GB data, and the N2,500 option for 4.5GB data. There are also the N2, 000 for 3GB data and the N1, 000 option which gives 1.5GB data; All plan comes with a onemonth validity. According to the telco, subscribers who wish to connect to the new bumper offers and enjoy Netflix should dial *777# to choose the relevant options on the interactive USSD portal.

Glo unveils super-fast connection for Netflix M illions of subscribers on the Globacom network have been advised to take advantage of the newly introduced internet movie platform, Netflix to enjoy great entertainment under the company’s reliable data network and pocket-friendly data plans. Through Netflix, an online movie–watching site, customers will be able to access unlimited movies and television shows over the Internet, using their computers, mobile devices, television sets on a PS3, Wii, Xbox 360, or any other Netflix compatible devices. All a telecommunication

pleted and tested said that the Coalition Emergency Response subsystem the subsystem is a platform for national emergency communication using the short code of 911 for emergency and /distress calls and 912 for anonymous security information saying that it also empowers the security agencies to carry out coordinated response.

tition will include participants from over 200 Nigerian schools saying that it will “involve two separate segments in primary and secondary schools levels and serve as an avenue to breed the technology whiz-kids of our time and upcoming generation who will form the nucleus of young industry captains that will transform the economy of Nigeria and Africa in the shortest possible time.” Olaoye noted that the competition is capable of positioning Nigeria as global ICT leading country and world champion the same way Nigeria had established itself as a consistent world champion in the Under-17 World football tournaments over the years. “The mission is to catch our youths at tender school ages for high quality ICT Skills-oriented Programs that will foster the rapid growth and development of their technology skills-set and consequently place them at the frontal row of global champions”, he said. He added that necessary sensitisation of schools for participation had started and that the initiative was approved by primary and technical stakeholders in the education and technology world, one of them is Lagos State Government Education and Science ministries.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Brands & Marketing

FG should engage communication experts in corruption, terrorism war – AAAN boss

Realising that only a secured and corrupt-free society can guarantee thriving business activities, some professional groups have taken it upon themselves to help in creating a business-friendly environment in the country. One of these groups is the Advertising Agencies Association of Nigeria, AAAN, whose President, Mr. Kelechi Nwosu, in this interview with DAVID AUDU, outlines his association’s effort to help government win the ongoing war against corruption and terrorism in Africa’s largest economy. Excerpts:

How should government use communication for national development? Mr. Udeme UFot’s recent paper on Strategic Communication and National Development actually answers that question. He posits that Government should use the same principles of Marketing Communication that have built big brands to build her communication. We need to have a strategic direction that engages the audience: The Governments- Federal, State and Local Government_ need to speak with the people not the current style of more or less speaking at them. Strategic communication involves aligning our vision with the communication that will help build the nation. One of those should be about unity and belief in the country. Like I mentioned earlier, the country is now really divided and people are going through tough times. I think the Ministry Of Information being the main communication curator for government should engage in research and insight based communication. I think that this is a time to talk up the Nigerian brand. I think this is the time to ask what will inspire Nigerians. As the fight against corruption rages, a lot of people are sad and wondering, “How much money was stolen/lost?” whilst they are facing economic challenges. I think this may be the time for the Federal Government to consider a proper and deliberate campaign, working with the right communication professionals, to determine what can we do to inspire the nation to be positive about the country. We need to look at what to do to make sure people have great hope in this country. The Information Minister and his machinery need to dig deeper and find out from the professionals, especially from our sector how this can be done. For instance, there is the story recently of a Nigerian Bennett Omalu, who studied in University of Nigeria, Nsukka, who went to America and discovered CTE. We can use such stories to change the narrative here and abroad about Nigeria.We need stories that inspire us as a nation and that will unify our energies to make progress. What are the particular campaigns that would strike the sweet spot amongst Nigerians to make them believe in themselves? This is also the time to start asking Nigerians to believe in themselves. This is the best time to promote made in Nigerian products; Made in Nigeria football league, ideas, personalities who are doing things in Nigeria and all over the world. This is not the time to just keep talking about corruption. This is time to ask what we can do to make our country great, both from an economic, emotional and spiritual point of view. Basically our best creative brains should be sitting round the table constituting what we call a core communication group to be able to do the above for our government, our people and our nation. I understand that AAAN has created a campaign to support current national campaign against security challenges and terrorism. What is the campaign all about? Before we even heard of the recent efforts by the Federal Government, we, at AAAN, had agreed that our

therefore that we need to have a campaign to unify us. We will share it with you at the right time. I don’t want to let the cat out the bag now, but essentially, it’s meant to be an integrated campaign that will support this whole war against terrorism using very effective media to deliver the message and solicit support of Nigerians for the government.

Nwosu

BEFORE WE EVEN HEARD OF THE RECENT EFFORTS BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT, WE AT AAAN HAD AGREED THAT OUR COUNTRY NEEDED TO HAVE A CAMPAIGN THAT WILL UNIFY AND MOTIVATE A LOT OF US TO SUPPORT THE WAR AGAINST TERRORISM. SO AAAN, WORKING WITH SOME OF ITS CORPORATE MEMBERS, HAS DEVELOPED A CAMPAIGN THAT WILL DO EXACTLY THAT country needed to have a campaign that will unify and motivate a lot of us to support the war against terrorism. So AAAN working with some of its corporate members had developed a campaign that will do exactly that. It is meant to support the war against terrorism: mobilise, inspire, and motivate Nigerians to join the war. There is currently a lot of apathy amongst Nigerians about the violence going on and that has continued to go on especially in the North Eastern part of the country. That is what our campaign on Anti-Terrorism is all about. What is the theme of the campaign and what s the thematic thrust of its message? Like I said, I will give you the details at the right time. But it is really a campaign to support the war against terrorism. We have also developed two other campaigns. So there is this one against terrorism; there is one against corruption and there is another one for unity. As you know, one of the big issues in our country is Unity or the lack of it. This country is so divided; divided along tribal lines, political lines, religious lines etc. We believe

How receptive is government to this initiative? We have offered the campaign that is built to create support for war against terrorism. We have shared it with the federal Ministry of Information and Culture. We hope that they have looked at it and will use it along with the campaign that they have commissioned. We have also continually offered to the Ministry of Information our capabilities as the foremost creative and communication association in the country and we hope that they will listen to us and partner with us to build effective campaigns. A behaviour change campaign such as the one we are working on requires deep insight and expertise. You’ve got to build it with deep, resonant insights; sometimes you might need to pre-test the creative work. So government has got to be deliberate in designing these campaigns otherwise they will not be effective. This support and capability of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) via our members are the things we are putting on the table to support government. If you don’t get government buy-in, will you go ahead to put it in the newspapers and in various media? It is not just for government, it is for all of us, I believe the government is for us. Sometimes we talk about the government as though government were outsiders, it is our government. I believe it is an elected government that has been elected to lead us, work with us and to help us as a country. Government and all of us, the governed, I do believe, are interested in the welfare and wellbeing of our country. So hopefully with the FGN support, we will go ahead; without their support we will still go ahead because we are doing it for our country which belongs to all of us. How are you working around it with other groups on this? We have had preliminary talks with the sectorial groups (ADVAN, OAAN, MIPAN, BON) on these campaigns. As usual, they are interested but we need to agree how to prioritise the various elements of the Advocacy campaigns. It is important that everybody does his bit. What we are doing as AAAN is to support our country, it is very important that everybody does something in these tough times to support our government. That is what we believe in. We are aware that the Minister has met ADVAN, OAAN, APCON, NPAN, why has he not met with AAAN. I think that question will be better answered by the Minister of Information and Culture, because we have made ourselves available and asked for the meetings with him. I do believe he is busy and will get around to it when it is convenient for him.

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Konga, mi-Fone to launch smartphone DAVID AUDU

igeria’s online marketplace, Konga.com has partnered with mobile devices brand, mi-Fone, to unveil what is described as the introductory series by both companies, the mi-Tribe A500 smartphone. Director, Customer Experience and Marketing, Konga.com, Mayowa Adebayo, says the partnership between the two companies represents Konga’s efforts to ensure that both companies continue to provide great product offerings to customers, who deserve value without compromise. “The primary concept behind the development of the mi-Tribe A500 smart phone was to create a device that uniquely caters to the need of the people of Nigeria and the introduction of this proprietary smart phone, developed with mi-Fone, is a step in that direction.” Introducing the partnership over a video presentation, Alpesh Patel, Founder and CEO of miFone said, mi-Fone is driven by a passion to empower and educate mass market African consumers

with access to the Internet, as well as the use of devices as an information gateway “With the mi-Tribe A500, we have launched a mobile device that offers convenience, style and affordability, made exclusively for the people of Nigeria, as a way of giving them quality, backed up by superior after sales support.” Patel described the new phone as “aspriration within reach” considering its a quality tool at very fair price. “By placing millions of low cost feature and now smartphone handsets into the hands of the average African consumer, mi-Fone will realise its dream in enabling a whole continent to become productive and in turn to become more prosperous”, he declared Patel added that the mi-Tribe A500 will ignite a whole new digital movement in Nigeria that ensures Nigerian consumers get the best value for their money, while providing a great platform to gain access to information which in turn helps productivity. Also speaking from a user’s experience perspective, Michael

Akindele, Founding Partner, John Rhoda said the 5-inch HD IPS display packs an incredible pixel density bordered by an ultra-narrow bezel, which maximises viewing experience — everything you see is big, bright and more beautiful. Akindele further attested to the fact that the smart phone is powered by a 1.3 GHz Quadcore processor which according to him ensures that consumers enjoy slick web surfing, smooth video playback, great gaming experiences and multitasking that does not leave them waiting. He added that battery lasts longer because it enjoys low energy dissipation to keep performance running. Exclusively available on Konga.com, the mi-Tribe A500 offers an all-new design with a sandstone textured back that is luxurious to the touch yet robust in the grip. “The vivid 5-inch HD IPS display packs an incredible pixel density bordered by an ultranarrow bezel, which maximises viewing experience. Everything you see is big, bright and more beautiful.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

BRAND talk with Michael Umogun

Tel: 08023117969/08031100462 Email: michael.umogun@millwardbrown.com

Should I use humour in advertising?

umour can undoubtedly be used effectively in advertising. Funny ads are more likely to be enjoyable and involving and are therefore more memorable. But, as with all creativity, humour needs to be used with care. To be successful, it must help focus on the brand and the intended communication; otherwise it can actually detract from the ad’s effectiveness. It’s no coincidence then that almost half the world’s impactful ads are humourous, but the effect of humour on communications is not so straight forward. Funny ads attract attention and elicit positive emotions, and if done well, get people talking about that particular ad or campaign. You can never under-estimate the value of ‘talkability’, and in today’s increasingly connected world of social media, campaigns that go ‘viral’ can be enormously successful. Think of the last few commercials that you have discussed with friends or shared on Facebook. How many of them were funny? Even if you had seen them before you would probably be happy to watch most of them again – and funny ads tend to have a longer ‘shelf life’ and will reach wear-out a lot later. So there are good reasons why advertisers use humour in advertising, but there is also one obvious risk - funny is hard. Everyone likes a good joke, but not everyone will agree on what makes a good joke. Humour is cultur-

ally specific and subtle references and puns tend to travel badly. What’s more, there is the risk that the joke will overwhelm the brand and the message, and viewers may be so distracted by the joke that they remember neither the brand nor its intended message. “A joke is a very serious thing” Sir Winston Churchill is quoted as saying, and this is certainly true in the multimillion dollar world of TV advertising. Most major advertisers pay to test their TV commercials with a small sample of the target audience before the ad actually goes on air, and for good reason. A humorous ad will get people’s attention and enhance affection for the brand, but a bad joke might get the kind of attention that undermines affection for the brand, running the risk of irritating or offending potential customers. Does humour work locally? Yes. Nigerians are generally happy folk and enjoy a good laugh. Studies by Millward Brown reveal that in Nigeria dirty jokes should be avoided as they do more damage than good, humour should be ‘origina Naija’ - marketers can use pidgin jokes as they would be nationally relevant and acceptable to the many nationalities in the country, and lastly, marketers should avoid negative characterisation of religion. What ads make you laugh? Share them with us on @michaelumogun michael.umogun@millwardbrown. com

StarTimes to showcase 88th Academy Awards DAVID AUDU

R-L: USAID Nigeria Mission Director, Mr. Michael T. Harvey; Acting US Consul General in Lagos, Mr. William Steuer; Managing Director of Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited, Mr. Adeola Adetunji; and Public Affairs & Communications Director Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited, Mr. Clem Ugorji, at the signing of MOU for the US$2M new water partnership between The Coca-Cola Africa Foundation and USAID.

Chi delights consumers with Gogurt Pack DAVID AUDU

hi Limited, manufacturer fruit juice it is easing the burden of Nigerian commuters by introducing the new Hollandia Gogurt Grab ‘n’ Go Packs, a handy 315ml packs for snacking while in transit and in traffic. Giving his thoughts on the new product, Managing Director, Chi Limited, Mr Deepanjan Roy, said, as a company, they are always mindful about the wellbeing of consumers and the society in general, hence, the thought of ensuring that consumers continually get refreshment and

nourishment even in challenging traffic situations “With the new Hollandia Yoghurt Grab ‘n’ Go packs you enjoy your time in the traffic. That’s why Hollandia Gogurt Grab ‘n’ Go Packs are just the right companion to keep you going while commuting. Explaining other features of the dring, Roy said, the Gogurt Grab ‘n’ Go pack has been pegged at a flat rate thereby making the yoghurt drink affordable to consumers. “The pack has been specifically designed in a dynamic prismatic shape with an attractive cap on its head, making it very trendy and attractive for

the youth to identify with and enjoy while ‘on the go’. “The Hollandia Yogurt ‘Gogurt’ Grab n’ Go 315ml pack is healthy, refreshing, fulfilling and a real delicious delight. Hollandia Yogurt ‘Gogurt’ is the right drink to satisfy your hunger or thirst on the go. He said the Hollandia Yoghurt ‘Gogurt” 315ml pack is currently available in Traffic, Road Kiosks, Bukas, Supermarkets, Chi Shoppe, departmental stores and neighborhood shops across Nigeria. Hollandia Grab n Go 315ml Yoghurt is in Plain Sweetened, Pure ‘N’ Plain and Strawberry flavours.

n memory of the Academy Awards month StarTimes will be celebrating it with an Oscar’s special, tagged “The Big Weekend on C Music TV’ scheduled to hit the screen later this month, a statement from the pay TV said. Chief Executive Officer of StarTimes Nigeria, Mr. Jack Liu, noted that subscribers will enjoy the glitz and glamour of the Oscars, adding that hosting the Big Weekend on C Music TV on StarTimes, its hoped will be the “cherry on the cake” for Academy Award fans on the African continent.” “In honouring the extraordinary talent of film score composers, ‘The Big Weekend’ will explore the world of music in film to coincide with the 88th Academy Awards. “With a host of exclusive soundtrack music-videos from all the major nomination categories, ‘The Big Weekend’ will also give viewers insight into a series of enlightening composer promos and abundant film

and Oscar facts, he said. The Oscars special line up will include some of C Music TV’s favourite artists and evaluate the nominee line-up and possible winners After the nominations were announced this year, the audience reaction was heated as many complained about the apparent lack of diversity, resulting in some of the stars deciding to boycott the event. However, Oscar winner and former host, Whoopi Goldberg, defended the Academy saying, the issue was not the Academy. “Even if you fill the Academy with black, Latino and Asian members, if there’s no one on the screen to vote for, you’re not going to get the outcome that you want. I won once, so it can’t be that racist. I’ve been black the whole time”. C Music is available on the StarTimes DTH channel ID 330 (Super bouquet). Subscribers are urged to stay tuned so as not to miss out on any moments, including the Red Carpet momentsas the all-time best entertainer, Chris Rock will be hosting.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Media

Thursday, February 25, 2016

NBC sanctions broadcast stations for breach of code Leonard Okachie

ational Broadcasting Commission, NBC has sanctioned various radio and television stations across the country for different breaches of broadcast code in November 2015. The commission, according to the statement posted on its official website meted various kinds of fines, including warning to the offenders. HOT FM, ABUJA was fined N100,000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) on November 2, 2015 for airing a musical etitled “Yahooze” by Olu Maintain which is classified as NTBB during its programme The Pulse, thereby contravening section 3.1.6 of the code. CROWTHER LOVE FM, Abuja was fined N100,000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) on November 18, 2015 for airing religious programme with unverifiable claims to miracle from Prophet commander Nwachi. Also, on November 23, 2015 during the programme BREKETE FAMILY, presenter Ahmed Isa, Made a derogatory statement about AEPB staff. On the same programme, presenter Ahmed Isa was overwhelmed with emotions that he was weeping and wailing and he left the studio without signing off because of the of Nigerian woman that was brutalize in an Italian Hospital. The management of the station was invited for a meeting at the Headquarters due to the reoccurring breaches on the BREKETE FAMILY show. WAZOBIA FM, ABUJA on November 25, 2015 was issued a final warning and advised to stop presenter, Expensive, from promoting products which contravenes section 7.0.15 the code. NIGERIA INFO FM, ABUJA on November 2 and 13, 2015 was warned to stop another presenter from HYPING Total Quart Engine Oil product which contravenes section 7.0.15 of the code. NTA NEWS 24, ABUJA on November 9, 2015; NTA CHANNE 5, ABUJA on November 5, 2015; ITV, ABUJA on November 25, 2015 and SILVERBIRD TV, ABUJA on November 20, 2015 used advert of Fairy Liquid Soap with an unauthenticated claim, “BEST OIL GREASY REMOVAL” thereby contravening section 7.0.14 of the code, these stations were asked to repackage the advert or provide proof of authentication by ASP. AIT ABUJA on November 26, 2015 during the programme “KAKAAKI” with the topic “KOGI GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION UPDATE,” the anchor did not check the guest, Chief Olisa Metuh of PDP who made unsubstantiated allegations of planned rigging of Bayelsa election against APC, INEC and the military. According to the Commsion, the station also on November 28, 2015 during the PDP mega rally and flag presentation to Gov. Dickson, made a lot of allegations against APC, thus; “Governor Seriake Dickson accused the other party of using federal

Stakeholders at an event by NBC

power to intimidate their people and that all Timipre Sylva did in all his five years was to kill people”. Station did not edit the inciting comments. All the breaches on AIT network were referred to the Headquarters for action. In Benin zone, ADABA FM, AKURE on November 9, 2015 was issued a final warning letter for hyping of services and non verifiable claims by a presenter in the programme “Lori Ile” thus: “you that the world is tormenting and has mental disorder (Omo Ijoba) or being attacked or suffering from sickness or you are facing disappointment, miscarriages or stagnation, just call Baba Eyenkorin’s number”. On November 24, 2015, the station was again issued a final warning letter to repackage unverified news stories being presented in their studios by independent producers in the programme “Lati Inu Aka” a Yoruba news presentation where sources of their stories are not stated.

BSES FM, Ado EKITI on November 3, 2015 was warned for airing the advert of a medical product where claims were made that the product could cure many diseases. The presenter also hyped the uses of Guarapad which included cure for fibroid, diabetes, epilepsy etc. RHYTHM FM on November 22, 2015 was issued a warning letter for airing a musical titled “my body” by Solid Star ft Timaya which contained obscene, indecent and vulgar language thus: “she says am the best guy she ever had, she knows am tough, when my cocky gets up…take off your blouse, take off your skirt. MELODY FM WARRI was on November 4, 2015 warned verbally for airing shoprite promo calling people to come and buy alcoholic drinks like American honey, campari, and sky vodka at a wrong time-belt of 3.50pm and 6pm. ITV BENIN, on November 2, 2015 was is-

sued a verbal warning for presenting people in unfair manner in a programme titled “This Morning” on ITV where a panelist made some remarks without caution by the anchor person thus: “the Governorship candidate Audu Abubakar, another name for him is corruption; then Bayelsa, Sylva, APC candidate is not only corrupt ordinarily, another street name for Sylva is a thief.” In Enugu zone, IBC FM OWERRI, EBBC (Salt) TV, ABAKALIKI, BCA RADIO, UMUAHIA, VISION AFRICA RADIO, UMUAHIA, BLAZE FM, ORAIFITE, ABS TV, ONITSHA, ODENIGBO FM, OBOSI and SOLID FM, ENUGU, were sanctioned for various breaches. Also fined were CROWN FM, Osogbo, SPLASH FM, Ibadan, GALAXY TV, IBADAN, OGBC I & II, ABEOKUTA, NTA JALINGO, BRC (II) FM BAUCHI, ARTV KANO, LIBERTY TV KADUNA among others

Ajimobi to restructure BCOS

overnor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has told management and staff of the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS) that a major restructuring is imminent at the station for better service delivery. Besides, the governor promised that the worn-out analogue broadcast equipment at the state-owned radio and television stations would soon be overhauled with state-of-the-art digital facilities. The governor said this in his address to the workers during an unscheduled visit to Ile Akede, Orita Basorun, Ibadan, headquarters of the station, shortly after meeting the management of the corporation behind closed doors, recenlty.

Ajimobi called for attitudinal change and paradigm shift among the workers, which he said was the only way his vision for the transformation of the BCOS could be realized. In the process of re-jigging the station, the governor assured that no worker would be sacked, but made it clear that each worker would be moved to his or her area of core competence within the public service. He challenged the management and staff of the BCOS to redouble their efforts towards the performance of their primary role of educating, informing, entertaining the public, as well as propagating government activities.

The governor commended the workers for their support for his administration since 2011 when he mounted the saddle, urging them not to rest on their laurels in realization of the challenges ahead. Ajimobi said, “I am here to promote the effectiveness, proficiency and efficiency of workers, irrespective of the political party you have sympathy for. I am a manager and I know there is need for attitudinal, structural and policy changes here. “In style, attitude and paradigm, there is need for change because if you keep doing the same thing the same way, you will keep getting the same result.

Media

Thursday, February 25, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nneji, Oputa, Dike to star in BET’s reality series

Cast of Top Actor Africa

Leonard Okachie

igerian actors Tobechi Nneji, Uriel Oputa and Ifeanyi Dike are hoping to fly the flag for Nigeria and make the nation proud in the upcoming BET reality series, ‘Top Actor Africa’ which kicks off next month on BET DSTV Channel 129. The three Nigerians join nine other hopefuls from South, East and West Africa, who were shortlisted after gruelling auditions held in Johannesburg, Durban, Lagos and Nairobi. Hoping to see their names in lights are South Africans Shamilla Miller and Simhle Belinda Plaatjies from

Cape Town, Farrell Drew from Durban and Marilyn Sekgapane, Jesse Suntele, Hendrik Lombard and Sabelo Sibeko from Johannesburg. They will be joined by East African hopefuls Lorreine Wangui Gakuo and Alex Khayo from Kenya. Top Actor Africa will be testing the actors to the limits in nine gruelling acting challenges, taking them through every acting genre from Improv to Comedy, Theatre, Soapie, Commercial, Romance, Horror, Drama and Action. They will have the unique opportunity to work with industry insiders from the local industry and Hollywood including celebrity actors, casting agents, directors, producers, managers and writers as they fight to stay in

the competition and keep their acting dreams alive. The contestants will be competing for the chance to win the title of “Top Actor Africa”. At stake is a careerlaunching prize package that includes US$10,000 in cash, a one-year contract with international representation and access to Hollywood auditions. On the emergence of the final contestants, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, VIMN Africa, Alex Okosi, said,“We send our congratulations and best wishes to all the contestants who have made the final cut in Top Actor Africa. We are thrilled to have developed this powerful and proven platform for discovering and empowering African acting talent, and

Bauchi Radio appeals to govt over dearth of manpower Ezekiel Titus Bauchi

auchi State Radio Cor poration (BRC) has strongly appealed to Gover nor Mohammed Abdullahi Mohammed to come to its aid to address the indices of shor tage of staf f for ef fective infor mation dissemination This was just as the cor poration

hold its 40 years anniversary to mark the existence of the station since state creation. T he Managing Director Alhaki Maig ari Muhammad Khanna made the statement in an interview with newsmen shor tly after the anniversary occasion. He added that due to inadequate staf f the station is compelled to eng a ge the services of about 160 casual staf f

Cross section of some of the executive of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists,NAWOJ with their chairman, Mrs. Dupe Olaoye-Osinkolu (middle) at the 2016 Valentine party.

This according to him, the eng agement of the casual staf f became imperative to cater for critical areas that is required for the operation of the station in the business infor mation dissemination He noted that the idea behind it is to bridge the g ap in lieu of staf f retirement including those that have left the services of the radio cor poration for g reener pasture even as the managing director reg retted that the burden of casual workers has impediment on the financial strength of the cor poration in its renewed commitment to cater for generating plants and other of fice equipment “We find it very dif ficult to subscribe other infor mation from news agencies because it requires finance and when we reduce the casual workers, the radio station cannot operates 18 hours as required because of their critical nature in the station” said Khanna Khanna however stressed that these challenges were inherited from successive administration in the state, saying there was need for urgent intervention of cur rent gover nment to rescue the station the challenges Highlights of the occasion were lecture series from invited quests, drama and symposium.

we look forward to seeing the drama unfold in season 2.” Also giving her own reaction to their emergence, Uriel Oputa , one of the Nigerian contestants commented, she said “Finding out I made it to Top Actor Africa was pure excitement, it has come at a real good time for me and my spirit is lifted, sincerely I’m truly overjoyed. I believe I’m going to just shine in the house”. Hosted by South African movie star Zikhona Sodlaka (“Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” & “Generations”), the 2015 contest was won by South African drama student Altovise Lawrence, who now hosts entertainment news show, BET Buzz. She also recently shot her first Hollywood movie, “The Other Side” in the USA opposite Roger Guenvuer Smith, Brad James and Erica Hubbard. The film is due for theatrical release in 2016. Top Actor Africa season two premieres on BET on Tuesday 1 March 2016 at @ 07:30 PM on BET channel 129.

Social Media Week: Saraki to speak at governance masterclass Leonard Okachie

enate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has been confirmed as Keynote Speaker for the forthcoming Governance Masterclass by StateCraft Inc. tagged ‘Did You Say Change? Game Changers of the 2015 Nigerian elections.’ The event which holds tomorrow at 9am, is hosted at the Social Media Week Lagos Innovation stage, Landmark Event Center, Water Corporation Road, Victoria Island, Lagos. It is one of the official events at Social Media Week Lagos 2016. The Masterclass - organised by StateCraft Inc., the governance communication arm of RED and official communication agency for President Muhammadu Buhari’s 2015 election campaign - will explore the intersection between media, business and governance, and will share strategic lessons from the historic campaign; for media professionals, communication agencies, public relations consultants, public affairs managers and information custodians across the Nigerian public and private spaces. “We are delighted to have Senator Saraki as the keynote speaker at the Masterclass engagement,” says Remi Ogunkayo, Group Chief of Staff for RED. “As one of the early adopters of digital tools, social media and innovative traditional communication in Nigeria’s public space, and a key part of the political change in Nigeria over the past year, he is uniquely placed to share insights and answer questions on the lessons learnt and the markers for a more social and connected future.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Young & Next Generation

Emmanuela,5, displays talent at Funnybone comedy show Stories By Leonard Okachie

ocial media sensation Young Emmanuella was a delight to watch last Sunday at Funnybone Untamed comedy show as she took the guests to another level with her ‘This is not my real face’ performance. The 5- yearold comedienne excited guests with jokes which got the crowd rolling on the floor. One of such jokes was when she said ‘The first time I heard Bovi, I thought it was a biscuit’. Not content with causing havoc with that, she also made mockery of TY Bello and the Bread Seller Story as she enacted as the bread seller hawking and tagged anyone who is against her a hater who doesn’t want her to progress just like Jumoke did. Her performance brought the crowd to a near-frenzy. Shell Hall, Muson Centre, which was the venue of the event, recorded a recordbreaking attendance for the debut comedy show with a capacity crowd of more than 2,000 guests as against the normal 1200 guests that the hall sits perfectly. Guests came charged up and ready for a night of premium entertainment and they were not disappointed. First came a number of warm-up performances from young and talented artistes who got the chance to thrill guests at the event. The evening kicked off in earnest when hosts for the night, IK Ogbonna and Adunni Ade stormed the stage to in-

Emmanuela on stage

teract with guests and introduce back to back performances from Buchi, Senator, MC Shakara, Naomi Mac, Bovi, Whale Mouth, Mr 2kay and Pepenazi. Then came the moment of the night, when Comedian Funnybone finally made his appearance onstage. At this stage, the guests got uncontrollably excited and cheered him up over staging such a show with so many crowds in the hall. His mum was reduced to tears at the sight of the superstar. Funnybone took his show a notch higher, cracking jokes using his mum’s characteristics as well as sharing exciting experiences from his childhood days

to University days. He delivered a 40-minute set and went on to appreciate everyone who supported his show acknowledging Wazobia FM OAP, Steve Onu ‘Yaw’ who produced the show. His set was preceded by back-to-back musical performances from superstar artistes including Harry Song, Kcee,

Iyanya, Aramide, Korede Bello, Bracket, Mi Abaga, Koker, Ice Prince, Jesse Jagz, Phyno and Olamide. The event was well attended by top personalities including Mercy Aigbe, Ibinabo Fiberesima, Chairman Five Star Group E-Money, Uti Nwachukwu, Ireti Doyle, Taiwo Ajai-Lycett, Alex Ekubo, Cossy Orjiakor, Yomi Casual, Alibaba, Dayo Amusa, Lilian Esoro, Ubi Franklin, Oge Okoye, Ush Bebe amongst others.

NYSC warns against online registration extension

ational Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has warned that online registration for the 2016 Batch `A` Orientation Course, for prospective corps members, will not be extended after the Feb. 28 deadline. Director of Press Unit of the NYSC, Mrs Bose Aderibigbe gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos. Aderibigbe said that the Stream I of the Batch `A’ orientation course would hold between March 30 and April 18 in various camps across the country.

Corps members

She added that the Stream II of the same batch would start from April 27 to May 16 in designated states.The online registration started on Feb. 8. The director explained that after registering on the NYSC portal, the corps members would get their call-up numbers. ``Prospective corps members shall wait until they get a Short Message Service (SMS) or an e-mail, informing them to go and print their call-up letters.They will get the information before March 30.Usually, it takes one week or few days

to get this information before the orientation course begins,” she said. Asked if the online registration is for foreign graduates only, Aderibigbe said that the scheme does not segregate its corps members. ``The registration is for both local and foreign trained Nigerian graduates,’’ she said. In another development, the Afenifere Renewal Group has expressed concern over the poor performance of students in the results recently released by the West African Examination Council (WAEC) nationwide. The Chairman of the Group, Mr Olawole Osun, expressed the concerrn in an interview with the State House correspondents shortaly after a visit to the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, in Abuja on Tuesday. Reports indicate that only 38 per cent of the students obtained five credits in the examination. Osun described the result as very poor even in the South West, and urged the Federal government to hands off secondary education for improved efficiency. He said that it would be good if the Federal Government reviewed the educational policies in the country. He said: “It will be necessary of course for the Federal Government to look at the educational system, the educational poli-

cies that are conducive and likely to raise the standard of performance. “Because, in any case, when you talk of empowerment that is the best empowerment that you can give to our children. “And it is necessary that we look at education from the angle of devolution of powers so that the Federal Government divests itself from direct participation in secondary education, focusing on tertiary education and laying down essential policies and allowing the federating units to focus on those levels of education, vocational, secondary such that you can have a greater efficiency at that level.’’ The Afenifere chieftain also stressed the need to ensure devolution of powers in other sectors. According to him, this will allow the federating units to participate at levels at which they are much more efficient to handle projects as well as handle issues that affect the well-being of the citizens. Commenting on the outcome of the visit, Osun said that the vice president was pleased with the concern raised by the group on how to raise the standard of secondary education. He said that the group was assured of the Federal Government’s determination to prioritise education.

Young & Next Generation

Thursday, February 25, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Group unveils Agribusiness start- up challenge for youth Kaymu rallies Joel Ajayi Abuja

ast-tracking Innovation Entrepreneurship and Leadership Development FIELD, has unveiled Africa Agribusiness start- up challenge for youth to engender innovation in the agricultural sector in Africa. While speaking at the event in Abuja recently, on the relevance of the initiative, the organisation’s CIO, Mr. Orji Austin noted that the programme would as well promote youth participation in the sector. According to him, revamping agribusiness in Africa requires active participation of African youths that make up the majority of the population. He said: “as the governments of many African countries call for import substitution regime with Nigeria leading the policy conversation due to trillions of Naira spent on food importation despite the huge abundance of arable land, the policies are designed to protect and in-

cubate domestic infant sectors with agriculture on the front burner. “The growing concern to government on how to make agriculture attractive to 625 million people in Africa that fall between the age bracket of 16-25 is as a result of defining agriculture activities traditionally that is limited to planting and harvesting of produce rather than building multiple industries across different value chain of agricultural produce using new technologies and techniques”. Mr. Austin further added that “FIELD Africa through the FIELD start-up challenge seek to inspire and raise an army of youth-led agribusiness start-ups that will create values at different level of the value chain with innovative business model. “Start-ups involve in aggregation of food & cash crops, processing, repackaging and different technology driven agricultural extension services that take products and services to the last mile are encouraged to apply.”

He went on to point out that;“The PanAfrican entrepreneurship development initiative will provide youths making bold strides in the agribusiness value chain $20,000 worth of business support, technology & modern technique transfer as well as access to finance and this will change the outcome, increase youth participation by changing the old school way of seeing agribusiness”. Orji explained further: “ The FIELD Africa also runs a Knowledge Exchange Fellowship that will raise the next generation of global & social impact leaders, through a cohort of youth professionals drawn from Africa and beyond, empowering them with the required skills to launch a high impact career. “In her commitment to use an ecosystem approach to drive entrepreneurship development in Africa, FIELD partners with funds & investment institutions like Acumen Fund, Universities, Incubators and Hubs committed to researching, developing & financing star-tups.”

Cross section of youths at entrepreurship programme

support for children with cancer

Leonard Okachie

nline classified marketplace Kaymu spent a fun and gift-filled morning playing with children battling cancer at the Pediatric Oncology Ward of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), recently in honour of International Childhood Cancer Day LUTH has a dedicated ward for children with cancer whereby kids and adolescents of all ages receive inpatient and outpatient treatments to fight their conditions. Childhood cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death among children and adolescents in Nigeria and the survival rate of children with cancer is much lower than the world average. In its bid to build community, drive social responsibility, and raise awareness about this important cause, Kaymu initiated a partnership with the Children Living with Cancer Foundation (CLWCF). The first collaboration occurred at the Monday’s event, as Kaymu involved its internal community of sellers and employees to provide relief and joy to the children. Kaymu sellers donated a large variety of toys, games, and books for the children while its employees also organised a donation drive for children’s clothes and shoes. The morning was filled with fun activities such as board games, colouring, reading, face-painting, and video games leaving the children with many gifts from Kaymu. Commenting on the event, Kaymu Managing Director Sefik Bagdadioglu said, “Making a difference is most impactful when it is a collective effort; this is why we were keen on involving our merchants and team for our first collaboration with CLWCF. We are as strong as our community.”

Early bedtime, better school performance –Study T here is a strong relationship between sleep problems and poor academic performances among adolescents, a new study demonstrates. The study is published in Journal of Sleep Research, and shows that the less the adolescent sleep -- the worse the grades get on average. “Our findings suggests that going to bed earlier, and encouraging similar bed- and sleeping times during the week, are important for academic performance,” says psychology specialist and first author Mari Hysing at Uni Research in Bergen, Norway. Hysing and colleagues analysed data from a large population based study conducted in Norway in 2012, including 7798 adolescents from Hordaland county. This survey is called youth@ hordaland -- a large and representative sample. School performance was measured by Grade point average (GPA), and obtained from official administrative

registries. The adolescents (aged 16-19) who went to bed between 10 and 11 p.m. had the best grades on average. Going to bed much later during weekends than weekdays, were also associated with lower GPA. The new study is a collaboration between researchers from Uni Research, the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Ørebro University and University of California, Berkeley. The results underscore the importance of sleep for academic functioning, the researchers point out: “Academic performance is an important marker for future work affiliation and health. Future studies should investigate further how the association between sleep and school impacts upon future educational status and work affiliation,” they write. After adjusting for sociodemographic information, short sleep duration and sleep deficit were the sleep measures with highest odds of poor performance

Sleeping baby

at school. Hysing and colleagues only investigated the association between sleep and school performance. When adjusting for

non-attendance in school, associations were somewhat reduced, but the link between sleep and GPA was still significant. Source: Uni Research

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Octogenarian accuses police of aiding land grabbers

Agbede endorses Odusanya for 2nd term Matthew Irinoye

hairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Lagos State Council, Comrade Tajudeen Agbede has endorsed continuity of Prince Joseph Odusanya as chairman of Tricycle Owners & Operators Association of Nigeria (TOOAN), Lagos State chapter, for another term of four years.

Scene of an accident on Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, yesterday.

Dare Akogun

ighty-five-year-old Chief Ishau Ogunlana of Ikorodu, Lagos, has accused Lagos State police command of aiding and abetting land grabbers to subvert a valid court judgement.

The octogenarian also alleged that the land grabbers are using an Assistant Inspector General of Police to coerce the police in Lagos State. The old man stated that the land grabbers were using the police to terrorize him, because they knew that he did not have the financial backing to fight back. “They threatened that they

would ensure that I do not use the judgement, despite having the necessary papers to take possession and they have been using police to threaten me,” the old man said. Chief Ogunlana disclosed that an Ikorodu High Court presided over by Hon Justice H.A.O. Abiru, had on January 4, 2011, delivered a judgment in his favour in a dispute over a parcel of land in Agunfoye Igbogbo area of Ikorodu, Lagos State. He said, “After getting all the necessary papers, including FORM O and other documents, the Lagos State police commissioner ensured a peaceful execution of the judg-

ment. “The joy of taking over my land after many years was cut short by the land grabber, who remains untouchable to the police. “Each time any of his boys was arrested, the AIG would intervene and ensure they were released without delay,” the old man alleged. Chief Ogunlan added that, “I want the IGP to call the police to order. I have a valid court judgment and order restraining anybody from my land.” He listed names of those who forcefully took over his land as Ogundana, Obayomi, Offin, Onabanjo, Jinadu,

among others. Chief Ogunlana has since sent a petition to the Inspector General of Police to save him from constant threats to his life by land grabbers. Meanwhile, the police in Lagos State have enjoined Chief Ogunkana to write a petition to the commissioner of police on the incident. Imagemaker in charge of state police command, Dolapo Badmos, while reacting to the incident, urged Chief Oginlana to write a petetion to the police in the state. She also assured that, “We will look into it and ensure that justice is done as soon as possible.”

Ishawo community leaders hail Ambode’s visit Francis Suberu

ommunity leaders in Ikorodu suburbs on Tuesday commended Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode for taking time to visit the den of pipeline vandals in Ishawo and environs, saying the development would go a long way in boosting the morale of security operatives, maintaining peace in the area as well as aid infrastructural development. The community leaders in separate interviews said the visit of the governor was a confirmation that the govern-

ment of the day has not forgotten the people of the area, and that developmental projects would soon start in their communities. Chief Fakayode Adetola, the Araba of Igbo-Olomu in Ikorodu, said the action of the governor was well commendable as such had never happened before in the area. He said, “For the governor to have come to our area, it shows the government recognises that some people exist in this area and it is commendable because it has never happened before for a governor to visit this area. “We have been hearing that

government used to send representatives to visit our area, but this time around the governor decided to come by himself. We are so happy with this development,” Adetola said. He, however, urged Governor Ambode to fulfill his promise of fixing roads in the area, saying the people have been subjected to untold hardship as a result of the dilapidated state of roads. He also pleaded with the governor to look into the plight of residents concerning epileptic power supply. Also speaking, Mr. Laniyi Olukole, chairman of Charismatic Pioneer Community De-

velopment Association in Ishawo, commended the governor, saying: “We’re very grateful to Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for his visit. That means he is the people’s governor and for him to have come to see the state of affairs in this area is very much appreciated. We just like him to keep to his promise to the people and fix our roads as quickly as possible.” On his part, Deacon Israel Adebayo, General Secretary of Igbo-Olomu Central Community Development Association (CDA), said the visit of the governor would facilitate security of lives and property and aid development.

Speaking at the swearingin ceremony of the 21-man executive of the association at NURTW secretariat, Abule-Egba, Alhaji Agbede said the good leadership transparently exhibited by Odusanya and his team made members of the association to unanimously stamp their continuity in office, and he had no choice than to endorse the people’s mandate. Says Agbede, who is also deputy chairman of Lagos State Council of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), “for the first time, the running of the tricycle sector of our union was peaceful during the first term of Odusanya, unlike what obtained in the past. The association was crisis-ridden, but today we thank God for His grace. “In all honesty, Odusanya is a good leader and disciplinarian, who had been able to carry along all tricycle owners and operators with good governance and lifeimproving welfare packages, giving all stakeholders a sense of belonging. Hence, the massive support for his continuity in office,” the dogged NURTW boss stated. He implored all members of TOOAN to shun internal wrangling, bickering and other negative attitudes that could hamper the planned progressive development mapped out for the association by its leadership. Agbede also emphasized the need for them to be self-disciplined. Responding, Odusanya thanked the NURTW for its motherly role, promising, that the fresh four-year tenure would witness greater developments, including infrastructural achievements. He also commended his members for their steadfastness, telling them to always be law-abiding.

Capital Market

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Naira sustains exchange rate gains against dollar Stories: Johnson Okanlawon

aira firmed sharply on the parallel market yesterday, as retail currency traders tried to adjust to the reality of no devaluation by the government. The naira firmed to between N302 and N310, a 20.5 per cent gain from Tuesday’s close of N364 to the dollar. The official interbank rate closed at N197.50, where the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, curbs introduced late last year to defend a currency peg have restricted access to dollars. That has funnelled demand for dollars on to the parallel market, a flow further fuelled by speculation of a possible

weakening of the peg. On Saturday, President Muhammadu Buhari rejected the idea of devaluing the currency, despite mounting pressure from an economic crisis caused by a sharp fall in the price of oil. The parallel market naira had risen on Monday and Tuesday, and its gains gathered pace on Wednesday. “The market is reacting to the president’s ‘no devaluation’ stance,” said Aminu Gwadabe, the head of the association of Nigeria’s bureaux de change operators. Authorities had stepped up efforts to rid the market of illegal currency traders, he added. Gwadabe said the association was advising members to

issue receipts to customers for foreign currency transactions in order to improve transparency and curb speculation. He told Reuters on Monday that the association was working to introduce a single quote across the parallel market and maintain a bid-ask spread of 3.5 percent. The unofficial market still accounts for less than five per cent of Nigeria’s currency trades. Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund, IMF, called for Nigeria to lift foreign exchange curbs and let the naira reflect market forces more closely, also urging more fiscal discipline and structural reform to bolster growth. Companies have laid off

thousands, cut production and even closed operations as they struggle to get enough dollars to pay for imported spare parts and raw materials. The naira traded as much as 40 per cent below the official rate on the black market. Devaluation would encourage investment and make domestically produced goods more affordable. “The exchange rate should be allowed to reflect market forces more and restrictions on access to foreign exchange removed, while improving the functioning of the interbank foreign exchange market,” the Washington-based fund said in a statement, after consultations with top officials in Nigeria.

SEC, Judiciary collaborate on investor protection agenda

he Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, and the Nigerian Judiciary have pledged to collaborate in a bid to boost investor confidence in the dispute resolution mechanisms available in the Nigerian capital market. The Director General of SEC, Mounir Gwarzo disclosed this yesterday at the 2016 Judges Workshop organized in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute (NJI) in Abuja. He said the excellent collaboration between the regulator of the capital market and the judiciary is crucial to ensure that the rights of investors are protected.

According to him, the role and responsibility of the commission as provided in Section 13 of the ISA 2007 include the powers to register, inspect, investigate, discipline and suspend any market operator. He explained that the Act also gives SEC substantial powers to make rules and regulations and also to impose sanctions on and enforce decisions against erring capital market operators, or their sponsored individuals. “In pursuance of the above mandate, we leverage on stakeholder engagements to share knowledge and information on areas of mutual interest and that is why You cannot downplay the essence

of the judiciary especially in terms of investor’s protection. Investors will be very comfortable to invest if when they invest in the market and they are not able to get what they want they can have recourse to finding a way and means that the issue can be resolved. “And the only way such issue can be resolved is when both the capital market and the judiciary are on the same page. The judiciary needs to understand the workings of the capital market; the capital market needs to understand the workings of the judiciary. This is the essence of the collaboration, for us to understand each other better,” he said. Gwarzo stressed that capi-

tal markets encompass all parts of the financial system where long-term equity or debt securities are bought and sold. By definition, such markets are highly specialized and governed by distinct sets of rules and regulations. The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mahmud Mohammed said the workshop could not have come at a better time especially in view of ongoing SEC led capital market reforms aimed at building a world class capital market, coupled with the underlying need to boost investor confidence in the dispute resolution mechanisms available in the Nigerian capital market.

Equities slide 0.9% as FBN Holdings gives profit warnings

nvestors’ apathy towards equity investment persisted in the equity segment of the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday. The benchmark index slid further south by 0.9 per cent to close at 23,833.3 points, while market capitalisation also lost N68.5billion to settle at N8.2trillion. The total value traded decreased by a marginal 3.3 per cent to N1.22billion from N1.26billion, while volume traded increased by 33.6 per cent to settle at 269.5 million shares. Investment analysts at United Capital noted that the recent equities performance is reflective of the varied impact of the weak

domestic macro backdrop on domestic asset classes. “We expect investors to remain cautious ahead of the upcoming earnings season, which should continue to drive choppy trades,” the firm said. Meanwhile, FBN Holdings has issued a profit warning to stakeholders, saying earnings will be materially below that of the prior year. In a statement sent to the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, the company secretary, Tijjani Borodo, said the warning has become necessary after the review of the management accounts for 2015. Borodo said the reduction in earnings is a result

of the recognition of impairment charges on some specific accounts resulting from a reassessment of the loan portfolio within our commercial banking business. He said, “This reassessment was driven by the challenging macro economic environment, coupled with fiscal and monetary headwinds which have resulted in marked reduction in domestic output. “This is a prudent measure being taken while the Bank has commenced active remedial action on the specific impaired accounts”. Borodo however said the Holdings merchant banking and asset management

as well as insurance business remain strong and resilient. Rate (%) Inflation

8.2

MPR

Crude oil price

$58.96

Source: NSE

Inter-Bank Rate Naira

US Dollar

N196.98 Market indicators All-Share Index 23,883.34 points Market capitalisation 8.22trn

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

AFRIPRUD

2.41

2.53

0.12

4.98

CUTIX

1.51

1.58

0.07

4.64

ETERNA

1.77

1.85

0.08

4.52

UNITYBNK

0.68

0.71

0.03

4.41

MAYBAKER

0.92

0.94

0.02

2.17

FLOURMILL

19.00

19.30

0.30

1.58

TIGERBRANDS

1.28

1.30

0.02

1.56

NASCON

7.00

7.10

0.10

1.43

ETI

15.00

15.20

0.20

1.33

NAHCO

3.95

4.00

0.05

1.27

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

FCMB

0.81

CLOSING 0.76

-0.05

-6.17

ZENITHBANK

11.44

10.87

-0.57

-4.98

GUINNESS

118.85

113.00

-5.85

-4.92

SKYEBANK

1.02

0.97

-0.05

-4.90

MANSARD

2.06

1.96

-0.10

-4.85

CHAMPION

2.71

2.58

-0.13

-4.80

UBN

5.30

5.05

-0.25

-4.72

NPFMCRFBK

1.08

1.03

-0.05

-4.63

UBA

2.90

2.77

-0.13

-4.48

FBNH

3.63

3.47

-0.16

-4.41

FGN Bonds

Offer

Bid

Description

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.17

106.63

8.98

107.63

8.11

16.00 29-JUN-2019

3.34

115.03

10.54

116.03

10.21

15.54 13-FEB-2020

3.97

112.38

11.56

113.38

11.26

16.39 27-JAN-2022

5.92

119.35

11.76

120.35

11.54

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.05

112.42

11.77

113.42

11.59

12.50 22-JAN-2026

9.91

103.33

11.91

104.33

11.74

Closing Market Prices of February 24, 2016

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

Exchange

Rates (N)

26-May-16

3.71

3.74

WAUA

270

USD

196.98

18-Aug-16

6.19

6.38

EURO

214

16-Feb-17

7.74

8.38

CFA

0.32

NIBOR

YEN

1.64

Tenor

Rate (%)

SWISS FRANC

202

O/N

4.5833

POUNDS STERLING

293

7.8350

9.3430

SDR

273

10.5316 CBN Clearing Rates of January 7, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, February 25, 2016

World News Go would say to us who pray to Him, ‘Haven’t you got wisdom, haven’t you a head and a hand? Get them to work!’. –ZIMBABWEAN PRESIDENT, ROBERT MUGABE

Obama moves to close Guantanamo Bay AFOLABI GAMBARI

WITH AGENCY REPORT

he White House has presented to Congress a plan to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility, one of President Barack Obama’s long-standing goals. It wants to transfer the remaining 91 detainees to their home countries or to US military or civilian prisons. But Congress is deeply opposed to terror suspects being held on US soil and is expected to block the move. The prison costs $445m (£316m) to run annually and closing it was a 2009 promise from Obama. “This is about closing a chapter in our history,” Obama said yesterday, adding, “It reflects the lessons we’ve learned since 9/11- lessons that must guide our nation going forward.” But Republican presidential candidate Marco Rubio was scathing in his criticism, saying Guantanamo prisoners do not belong on US soil.

The exterior part of Guantanamo Bay The president, who will complete his second and final term in January, said it was important not to pass the problem on to his successor. “Keeping this facility open is contrary to our values. It undermines our standing in the world. It is viewed as a stain on our broader

record of upholding the highest standards of rule of law,’ Obama further said.’ Guantanamo Bay is located on an American naval base in south eastern Cuba. Former US President George W Bush opened it to accommodate foreign terror sus-

pects after the 9/11 attacks on the US. Human rights groups have repeatedly complained about the prison, which has held 780 men total since it opened in 2002. Many detainees have been held there without charge or trial.

Migrants: EU fears humanitarian crisis

he EU says it is making plans to deal with a possible humanitarian crisis as new border controls halt migrants moving through the Balkans. Greece has also expressed displeasure after the controls left thousands of migrants stranded in the country. Thousands of migrants have been trapped in Greece after Macedonia barred entry to Afghans, days after Austria brought in new controls. Latest figures show a huge rise in the numbers of migrants arriving in Europe. The International Organiza-

tion for Migration (IOM) says more than 100, 000 asylum seekers have arrived so far this year, compared to fewer than 4, 000 in the first two months of 2015. Greece is the main arrival point for the migrants and refugees, having been smuggled across the sea from Turkey. “We are concerned about the developments along the Balkan route and the humanitarian crisis that might unfold in certain countries especially in Greece,” a joint statement by EU migration commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos and Dutch migration minister Klaas Dijkhoff said.

“We call on all countries and actors along the route to prepare the necessary contingency planning to be able to address humanitarian needs, including reception capacities. On Tuesday, Greece began sending hundreds of Afghans back to Athens from its border with Macedonia. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker also criticised the Austrian move, saying that “solo national approaches were not recommended”. EU leaders have announced they will hold a summit in early March with Turkey to attempt to

seek fresh solutions to the crisis. Turkey is home to nearly three million refugees, most of them from Syria.

Burundian President Pierre Nkurunziza

About 400 people have been killed and 250, 000 have fled to neighbouring states since Nkurunziza announced in April that he would seek a third term. He survived a coup attempt in May, and won elections in July. South Africa’s President Jacob Zuma and four other African leaders are in Burundi tomorrow for talks with Nku-

Army admits child jailing error An Egyptian military court made a mistake by sentencing a four-yearold boy to life in prison for murder last week, the military has acknowledged. Spokesman Colonel Mohammed Samir said the court should have sentenced a 16-year-old with a similar name instead. Ahmed Mansour Qurani Ali was convicted along with 115 others in connection with riots by Muslim Brotherhood supporters in Fayoum province in 2014. His lawyer had submitted documents proving that he was one at the time. In a post on Facebook (in Arabic), Col. Samir said Ahmed Mansour Qurani Sharara, 16, should have been sentenced and not Ahmed Mansour Qurani Ali. It not clear what will now happen to the four year old.

Libyan militias lose Benghazi territory Islamist militias in Libya have lost two major areas in the eastern city of Benghazi, according to military sources and residents. “People are celebrating on the streets,” a resident said. Fighters loyal to anti-Islamist General Khalifa Haftar are reported to have taken over the port, a hospital and have cut off a key weapons supply line. Thousands have fled more than a year of fighting in Benghazi, the birthplace of the 2011 uprising. Once in the Libyan army, Haftar fought with revolutionaries to overthrow long-time leader Muammar Gaddafi. Libya has since fragmented and has rival parliaments backed by various militias and brigades spawned by the uprising.

SA woman denies baby snatching European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker

Nkuruniza makes prisoners’ pledge urundi’s President, Pierre Nkurunziza, yesterday said he will release 2, 000 prisoners detained since protests broke out against his rule in April. He made the announcement following talks with UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, in Burundi’s capital, Bujumbura. Ban’s visit was the latest in a series of diplomatic initiatives aimed at ending the unrest.

WORLD BULLETIN

runziza. Meanwhile, the UN Secretary General has commended the parley he had with the Burundian leader, saying his promise to release the prisoners was an encouraging step. “Burundi’s political leaders must be ready to summon the courage and the confidence that will make a credible political process possible,” the UN chief said.

A South African woman accused of kidnapping a two-day-old baby in 1997 has pleaded not guilty in court. Police accused her of fraudulently pretending to be the girl’s biological mother since snatching her from a world famous hospital in Cape Town city. The 50-year-old woman was arrested last year after enrolling the child, named as Zephany Nurse, in a school. Celeste and Morne Nurse, the parents of a similar-looking girl at the school, became suspicious, and alerted police. “DNA tests proved that Zephany was their child,” police said yesterday. She had been living with the accused, who cannot be named for legal reasons, near the home of Celeste and Morne Nurse in the Cape Flats, a mainly working class neighbourhood in Cape Town, when she was found last year.

North

Thursday, February 25, 2016

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NIS to rid Niger of illegal immigrants Priscilla Dennis, Minna

L-R: Wife of Bauchi State Governor, Hajiya Aisha Muhammed-Abubakar (L) presenting skills acquisition materials to the state’s Controller of Prisons, Alhaji Sidi Mohammed, for inmates of Bauchi Prisons In Bauchi, Yesterday.

Reps allege fraud in drivers’ licence issuance process UBONG UKPONG ABUJA

ouse of Representatives yesterday expressed deep displeasure over the lack of integrity in the issuance of drivers’ licence in the country. The House consequently mandated its Committee on Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, to investigate the lack of integrity in the issuance of drivers’ licence and the measures in place to reverse the trend. The committee was thus

given four weeks to conclude its investigation and report back to the House for further legislative action. The move followed a motion brought by Hon. Philip Shaibu on the need to ensure integrity in the issuance of drivers’ licence to reduce accidents on our highways. The lawmaker had noted that FRSC and the Vehicle Inspection Office, VIO, which were two agencies involved in the issuance of drivers’ licence did not seem to follow laid

down rules and due process, thereby compromising the integrity of the scheme, and endangering the lives and property of millions of Nigerian road users. Shaibu said he was aware that going by the rules, only licensed driving schools should train intending drivers, who thereafter, should pass driving test conducted by an agency of government, in addition to a properly conducted eye test, before issuance of licence. The lawmaker also said

that he was further aware that due process before issuance of driver’s license was routinely breached so much so that a driver’s license could be obtained by proxy. He expressed concern that there was a direct correlation between the high rate of accidents in the country yearly and the capability of drivers plying the highways. The motion enjoyed popular support by the House presided over by Speaker Yakubu Dogara, and was subsequently adopted.

Terror war: COAS inspects military hardware in Borno INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

hief of Army Staff, COAS, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, yesterday inspected military hardware recently deployed in the Operation Lafiya Dole. Buratai, who was highly elated after the inspection said, “I am very confident that with the array of weapons we have just inspected, Boko Haram will be completely defeated soon.” He described the recent joint operation between the Nigerian Army and their Cameroonian counterpart as a positive development that has opened up a new phase in international warfare, which has shown to the world that Africa has come of age. “The recent successes recorded in Gulumba, Kumshe axis and the Alagarno Talala axis are a

classical example of what joint operation can do,” the COAS stated. The army chief is also scheduled to have interactive session with Borno elders, see the troops at the battlefield to boost their morale and ginger them to take the war against insurgency to its logical conclusion. Among the military hardware inspected include vehicles, motorcycles, ammunition, unmanned motor vehicles, among others, which were recently deployed to effectively execute the war. In a related development, troops in continuation of the war against insurgency have carried out major operations against Boko Haram locations in Talala and Kumshe. The joint operation, which was carried out with Cameroonian forces, was successful as a number of the terrorists were killed

and some of their weapons and equipment either destroyed or captured. A statement issued by Acting Director Army Public Relation, Col. Sani Usman Kukasheka said the joint operation led to the killing of 20 Boko Haram terrorists, destruction of 4 AK 47 rifles and capture of a gun truck mounted with an Anti-Aircraft Gun (AA Gun) and 2 AK 47 rifles, as well as a 60mm mortar and a Dane gun. He added that three soldiers sustained injuries and a vehicle damaged as a result of an Improvised Explosive Device, IED. “Troops also encountered about 10 other IEDs along the route of advance which were cleared. “Most of the terrorists ran in disarray towards Fatake where troops on blocking position cleared them. “Along the Talala axis,

despite an IED in which one soldier was wounded and a vehicle damaged, the operation is progressing very well, more so as the Nigerian Air Force has been assisting with interdiction and surveillance.

iger State Command of the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, said it plans to embark on a state-wide exercise to mop up illegal immigrants. Speaking to our correspondent in Minna yesterday, new state Comptroller, David Adi, said the influx of illegal immigrants pose security risk to the state. According to him, ridding the state of illegal foreigners should not be perceived as political, noting that current security situation faced by the countrys demands that all security agencies must sit up. “Those without business have no business to be here. We need to do the mop up exercise to remove illegal immigrants from

Youths lynch alleged kidnapper in Kaduna A ZA MSUE KADUNA

n alleged kidnapper has been lynched by Kwadaru youths in Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The deceased, it was learnt, was among a gang of kidnappers, who had been terrorising the council area. It was learnt that nemesis caught up with him when he and others attempted to kidnap a resident of the village. A villager, Mohammed Tanko, told journalists

Vandals cart away 10 power equipment in FCT –AEDC

buja Electricity Distribution Company, AEDC, said that vandals have carted away 10 power equipment belonging to the company in Wuse area of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT. This was contained in a statement issued in Abuja yesterday by Head, Public Relations and Media of AEDC, Mr. Ahmed Shakarau. The statement said 10 power system equipment were vandalised and carted away by unknown persons in less than one week in Wuse area under its

time to time in order for them not to become security threats to the state. There are many of them who do not have travel documents in Niger State as of today,” he said. Adi revealed that the command has identified locations across the state where the illegal immigrants are concentrated. He further stated that when the mop up commences, it would be done simultaneously across the three senatorial districts, so that no immigrant would escape being caught. The Comptroller added that to ensure the exercise is properly conducted all Divisional Immigration Offices will be supervised and monitored, adding that erring officers would not go unpunished.

FCT Central Region. The statement listed a feeder pillar at No.2, Bangui Street, and two transformers at Monrovia Street in Wuse II as some of the equipment vandalised by the hoodlums. It said that a feeder pillar was carted away at Durban Street, Wuse 2, while approximately 3 x 150mm 2 XLPE cable of an 11KV transformer on Sheraton Hotel feeder was also vandalised. The statement said this act was carried out during the early hours of Saturday, February 20.

in Kaduna that other kidnappers escaped into the forest when residents mobilised against them. He explained that the angry locals burnt the captured kidnapper before security agencies got to the scene. Tanko said, “The kidnappers came to the village armed with dangerous weapons on Monday night and started shooting, trying to kidnap some women in a house. “The people mobilised against them and the whole village repelled them, in the process, they captured one and killed him. They also set his body ablaze. The rest escaped. “The security agencies came to the village and started trailing the escapees to the forest.” Governor Nasir el-Rufai’s spokesman, Samuel Aruwan, could not be reach for comment on incident. Police Command’s spokesman could not also be reached as his phone was switched off. It would be recalled that, the Special Kidnapping Squad, comprising the military and police last week freed four young girls abducted in Kateri, Kachia Local Government Area.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, February 25, 2016

CHANGE OF NAME

GLORY: Formerly known and addressed as GLORY ITORO EKPO now wish to be known and addressed as GLORY SAMUEL EKPO. and my date of birth is12th march 1994 as against 12th march 1993 All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

SALAMATU : FORMERLY known and addressed as SALAMATU IBRAHIM NOW wish to be known and addressed as SALAMATU IBRAHIM ILIYASU. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

USMAN: I, formerly known and addressed as USMAN OJONUGWA AMOS, now wish to be known, called and addressed as USMAN OJONUGWA ONUCHE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

KOLAWOLE: Formerly known and addressed as Kolawole Basirat now wish to be known and addressed as Adegboye Basirat All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME IGHOTEME: I, formerly known and addressed as IGHOTEME OLAMIDE OLATILEWA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OLAMIJULO OLAMIDE ADETUTU. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME THOMAS: Formerly known and addressed as THOMAS JULIET now wish to be known and addressed as UZUEGBU NDIDI- AMAKA JULIET. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Ebere Marian Nwose, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ebere Marian John. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ALEX: I, formerly known and addressed as RUTH IFEANYINACHUKWU ALEX, now wish to be known, called and addressed as RUTH IFEANYINACHUKWU AIDELOJE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME EJEH: Formerly known and addressed as Ejeh Regina Aladi now wish to be known and addressed as Pius Regina Aladi. All former documents remain valid. General public take note CHANGE OF NAME FORMERLY AYODELE

KNOWN TEMITOPE

MISS

ELIZABETH.

NOW WISH TO BE ADDRESSED AS MRS BABATUNDE TEMITOPE ELIZABETH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID,GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME FAITH: Formerly known and addressed as MRS FAITH CHIZOBA UDEMMADU now wish to be known and addressed as MRS PEACE CHIJIOKE N.. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

This is to confirm that UWAOMA PRINCE SOPURUCHI is the same person bearing UWAOMA PRINCE IHEJIRIKA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as CHIBUOGWU CHIEDU JAMES now wish to be known and addressed as ADEOYE AKEEM ADEYEMI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

KAYODE:: Formerly known and addressed as KAYODE EBENEZER OLUWASEUN now wish to be known and addressed as ADIO EBENEZER OLUWASEUN. All former documents remain valid. Banks general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as MR KOJEBI NIYI FRIDAY now MR EMIOLA NIYI. All former documents remain valid. Authority concern and general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known as miss GABRIEL OLUWAKEMI DEBORAH OLUWATOSIN now wish to be known,called and addressed as MRS AKINRINADE OLUWAKEMI OLUWATOSIN all former documents remain valid general public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Moses Veronica Joy, now wish to be known and addressed as Olumoh Veronica Joy. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OSHIKOYA ABIOLA OLAYINKA, now wish to be known and addressed as FAJOBI ABIOLA OLAYINKA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Owolabi Oluwatoyin Elizabeth Aderonke, now wish to be known and addressed as Folorunsho Aminat Aderonke. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Ibenacho Sharon Obinne B. J, now wish to be known and addressed as Agu Sharon Obinne B.J. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly Ogundipe Adenike Omolara now Odeniyi Adenike Omolara. All former documents remain valid. General public please note. CHANGE OF NAME

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

Formerly known and addressed as Ugbomeh Chukwudi Stanley, now wish to be known and addressed as Nathan Ugochukwu Joseph. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Yati Mohammed, now wish to be known and addressed as Hayatu Suleiman. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Agama Grace Precious, Formerly known and addressed as Agama Precious Ote. My date of Birth 8th day Of February 1996. All former documents remain valid. General please take note. CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known, called and addressed as Miss Adeoti Fatimoh Idowu now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mrs Abubakar Fatimoh Idowu. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ANGEL: I, formerly known and addressed as ANGEL AUSTIN.I., now wish to be known and addressed as AKAEZE IFEYINWA ANGELA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note. CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as EMMANUEL HELEN OLUCHI, now wish to be known and addressed as EMMANUEL RITA OLUCHI. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that I, OBIAGWU OLUWATOBI FAVOUR is the same person as Miss ORIRE OLUWATOBI AYOTUNDE. All former documents remain valid. First Bank PLC and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as OTANWA BONIFACE IKWUTA, and now wish to be known and addressed as ONAH FRANCIS, all former documents remain valid, general public should please take note.

I formaly known and addressed as Aisha Mahmoud Babayo now wish to be known and addressed Aisha Sani Adamu, all former documents remain valid, general public to take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ANIH: I, formerly known and addressed as ANIH EMEKA TONY, now wish to be known and addressed as ANIH EMEKA RAUL . All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that I, Adimorah Chinawuekpere is the same person as Adimorah Chinawuekpere Evelyn . All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

FAMILY CHANGE OF SURNAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CORRECTION OF NAME

I AbdulRasaki Arisekola Ilani wrongly registered my name with GT Bank as AbdulRasaq Arisekola Ilani.Henceforth my correct name is AbdulRasaki Arisekola Ilani.All former documents remain valid,general public and GT bank take note

CHANGE OF NAME

MUHAMMED : Formerly known and addressed as MISS MUHAMMED MAIMUNAT now wish to be known and addressed as MRS MUHAMMED MAIMUNAT. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

MOBOLADE: Formerly known and addressed as MISS MOBOLADE ADEDAYO OGUNBAMBI now wish to be known and addressed as . MRS MOBOLADE ADEDAYO AKPUNAH All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

OCHANKPA:I, formerly known and addressed as OCHANKPA PAUL EDWIN, now wish to be known and addressed as OCHE MONDAY. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as OLAGOKE OLALAIDE now wish to be known and addressed as ABIMBOLA KIYESI OLAIDE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Aminu Kazeem Kolawole, now wish to be known and addressed as Babatunde Kazeem , date of birth 13th of march 1978. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

Formerly known, called and addressed as Nwoye Raphael Oluebute now wish to be known, called and addressed as Ubin Stephen Oluebute. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

NWACHUKWU: Formerly known and addressed as MRS NWACHUKWU BLESSING now wish to be known and addressed as MRS PATRICK BLESSING CHIMA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known as Musa Salisu Abubaka now wish to be known and addressed as Lawal shaibu Nagaro.All documents bearing these names to remain valid. General public take note

Formerly known and addressed as JOHN EMMANUEL UCHENNA, now wish to be known and addressed as JOHN OLUWASANYA JAIYE0BA. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

Formerly known, called and addressed as Adeyemi Mary Aderomoke now wish to be known, called and addressed as Ayinomo Mary Ademola. Former documents remain valid. General public note. Formerly known, called and addressed as Afolake Fausat Alade now wish to be known, called and addressed as Folake Fausat Olanrewaju. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

CHANGE OF NAME PHILIP: Formerly known and addressed as MR PHILIP IFY OBIJIOFOR now wish to be known and addressed as PHILIP CHIDI OBIJIOFOR. . All former documents remain valid. General public take note

We, formerly known and addressed as (1) EDEANI IFEANYI EMMANUEL (2) EDEANI AUGUSTINE ONYEMA (3) EDEANI PETER OLUCHUKWU now wish to be known and addressed as 1. ANI AUGUSTINE ONYEMA 2. ANI IFEANYI EMMANUEL 3. ANI PETER OLUCHUKWU All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public should please take note.

OKEKE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKEKE OGONNA MARYROSE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS UDEH OGONNA MARYROSE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OFORKANSI: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OFORKANSI NNEKA MARY, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AMOBI NNEKA MARY. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NWAUKWO :Formerly known and addressed as Nwaukwo Chisom now wish to be known and addressed as Iburu Chisom Happiness .All former documents remain valid. General public take note. CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm and certify that OKORO CHINAZA RITA, UGWU CHINAZA RITA and UWADIEGWU CHINAZA RITA refer to one and the same person, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS UWADIEGWU CHINAZA RITA. All former documents remain valid. NYSC, Banks and general public please take note.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CHANGE OF NAME

TOLULOPE: I formerly known and addressed as SHOBOWALE TOLUWEST, now wish to be known and addressed as SHOBOWALE ADEBISI TOLULOPE. All former documents remains valid, The General Public. Please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as Miss Oluyemi Funmilayo now to be addressed as Mrs. Bamitale Ogunyemi Funmilayo. All former documents remain valid, general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

This is to inform the general public that I, MOSES TUNBOSUN MICHAEL is the same person bearing OGUNDULU TUNBOSUN MOSES MICHAEL . All documents bearing both names remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

HAMMED: Formerly known and and addressed as Miss Hammed Adijat Kuburat now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Osatuyi Adijat Opeyemi. All former documents remain valid. Whytecleon Ltd. and the general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

OLAYINKA:Formerly known and addressed as OLAYINKA JANET ADEMOLA now wish to be known and addressed as OLAYINKA JANET NOAH .All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

GRACE : FORMERLY known and addressed as AYODELE GRACE OLUFUNMILAYO NOW wish to be known and addressed as OTITOLAYE GRACE OLUFUNMILAYO. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as KAREEM SULAIMON KAYODE, now wish to be known and addressed as BADMUS SULAIMON ADEMOLA. All former documents remain valid. General Public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME MONSURAT: Formerly known and addressed as Miss MONSURAT SALAWU now wish to be known and addressed as MONSURAT YUSUF (Nee Salawu). All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

ARIYO: Formerly known and addressed as Ariyo Adenike Abiodun now wish to be known and addressed as Raji Adenike Abiodun. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly miss BOLAJI RACHEAL now wish to be known,called and addressed as MRS TEMAKO RACHEAL OMOLOLA all former documents remain valid general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss DURU DORIS CHISOM. now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. EGBEYEMI DORIS CHISOM. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Ibrahim Abdul Affez Kewulere, now wish to be known and addressed as Ibrahim Abdul Hafeez Oluwatoyin. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Akanbi Omowunmi Rasheedat, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Yussuf Omowunmi Rasheedat. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss Aritetseoma Odeworitse Egbe, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Aritetseoma Odeworitse Lawson. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Ayeloja Azeezat Mojisola, now wish to be known and addressed as Durojaiye Azeezat Mojisola. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Oluwakemi Omotosho, now wish to be known and addressed as Olu wakemi Adelaja. All former documents remain valid. General please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME UDEENE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS UDEENE ESTHER AMAKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS CHIKELU ESTHER AMAKAS. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

BENJAMINE: I, formerly known and addressed as MR BENJAMINE ONU ONYEAWA, now wish to be known and addressed as MR ONYEANWUSI BENJAMIN. All former documents remain valid. UBA, ACCESS, Banks and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

UGWU: I, formerly known and addressed as UGWU SOLOMON CHINWEIKE, now wish to be known and addressed as UGWUNWANTA SOLOMON ONYEISHI. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known as MISS EMMANUEL GRACE now MRS OLORUNFEMI GRACE ODUNAYO. All former documents remain valid. Authority concern and general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known as OLORUNDUYILEMI DUPE TAYO now AKINRINSOYE DUPE TAYO. All former documents remain valid. First Bank Plc and general public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

ODO: I, formerly known and addressed as ODO BLESSING OBIAGELI, now wish to be known and addressed as ODO LUCY OBIAGELI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME EDEH:I, formerly known and addressed as EDEH AMOGE SARAH, now wish to be known and addressed as RAYMOND SARAH AMOGE. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ADDITION OF NAME

That I was formerly known and addressed as AMAEFUNA OLUCHUKWU that I now wish to add LIVINUS to my former name that I now wish to be known and addressed as AMAEFUNA OLUCHUKWU LIVINUS. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public should please take note.

ADDITION OF NAME

That I was formerly known and addressed as INNOCENT ANYANWU, that I now wish to add NNABUGWU to my former name that I now wish to be known and addressed as INNOCENT NNABUGWU ANYANWU. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known as MODE GODPOWER now ASUPA MODE. All former documents remain valid. U.B.A PLC, WEMA BANK PLC and general public take note.

Thursday September 4, 2014

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Joel Ajayi Abuja

he Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has again stated that newly appointed Flying Eagles handler, Emmanuel Amuneke, is well positioned to become the next Super Eagles coach should he engineer Nigeria’s U-20 male team to world cup final. Amuneke who led Nigeria’s team to win the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile in 2015 was last week elevated to handle the country’s junior side while his former boss, Manu Garba, was asked to return as Golden Eaglets coach. Chairman of the NFF Technical and Development Committee, Chris Green, revealed that the federation expected the new Flying Eagles coaching crew to take Nigeria to a new stable on the global stage. Nigeria as Africa’s most populated nation is yet to win the FIFA U-20 World Cup despite coming close in 1989 and 2005. “The various changes we

Sport

Many Americans follow pro basketball from November through June, for reasons that I found unexplainable, other than the fact that they were overly fascinated with soaring armpits –Dan Jenkins You Call It Sports…(1989)

FIFA presidency: Rivals in final push for votes

Amuneke

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Super Eagles job awaits Amuneke if... –NFF

have made or that is being made is to bring new innovations that will make our national teams, especially the senior ones return to winning ways,” Green told National Mirror. He, therefore, charged Amuneke to win the FIFA U-20 World Cup with the Flying Eagles and land the Super Eagles job, more so the NFF is having issues with Coach Sunday Oliseh. The federation, at the end of its Executive Committee meeting on February 17, gave Oliseh a final warning, following the coach’s recent diatribe and utterances after Nigeria crashed out at the group stage at the 2016 CHAN hosted by Rwanda Green said Amuneke, a former Barcelona winger could make a strong claim for the Super Eagles job if he succeeded with the Flying Eagles next year. “He has already won the FIFA U-17 World Cup and has now been taken up to the U-20s with his boys. And should he now deliver again, he could take over the U-23s or even the Super Eagles,” he added.

Mourinho: Man U job ‘a million dollar question’

Mourinho

acked Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho, said yesterday that he is “happy not to have a job” at the moment and kept coy about taking the helm at Manchester United, saying that was “a one milliondollar question”. Mourinho spoke before students at a suburban secondary school in Singapore in conjunction with a scholarship foundation set up by Valencia Football Club owner Peter Lim, who is from the city-state. Asked by a student United fan whether he would be the next manager of the English Premier League club, Mourinho replied: “That’s a one million-dollar question that nobody knows, and I’m the first one not to know.” The Portuguese also said he was amused by all the media speculation about his next job following his sacking in December after a disastrous start to the season. “I read so many different things... Another day it says I go to China, another day it says I go to Italy,” he told reporters later. “I go to Milan and people say I’m going back to Inter. I’m here and probably you’re saying I go to Singapore national team. “Every day new things are coming, but the reality is that I have no job and at this moment I’m happy not to have a job.”

Sports

Thursday, February 25, 2016

FIFA presidency

Rivals in final push for votes Infantino Prince Ali

Sexwale

Sheik Al-Khalifa Champagne

IFA presidential favourites, Gianni Infantino and Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al-Khalifa, yesterday, embarked on a final scramble for votes ahead of tomorrow’s election to lead world football’s scandal-tainted governing body. The poll is seen as crucial to repairing the organisation’s reputation, which has been battered by a series of unprecedented corruption scandals, but just two days before the vote, protests over the secrecy of ballots have mounted. Front-runners Infantino - the Swiss-Italian acting chief of European football - and Sheikh Salman of Bahrain, Asian football’s president, have so far stayed clear of the controversy over balloting. Both were in FIFA’s home city of Zurich trying to assemble the coalition of supporters needed to replace the disgraced Sepp Blatter and win the most powerful job in world football. But rival candidate, Prince Ali bin al

Hussein, of Jordan has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to suspend tomorrow’s election. He has said transparent voting booths must be used to ensure that delegates do not take pictures of their ballots, a move required by certain regional confederations as proof of loyalty to a specific candidate, according Prince Ali. “I want this election to occur as soon as possible, but not at the risk of undermining its integrity,” the Jordanian royal said in a letter to FIFA’s member associations. Jerome Champagne of France, who along with South Africa’s Tokyo Sexwale completes the list of five presidential challengers, has joined the Jordanian prince’s call for greater transparency. The Lausanne-based CAS had asked FIFA to respond to Prince Ali’s concerns and said it would rule on his request for “urgent provisional measures” by yesterday and finally ruled that the election should go ahead.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

The FIFA elections since 1904

omorrow football’s world governing body, FIFA, holds its second Congress in less than eight months to elect a new president following the resignation and subsequent banning of Sepp Blatter in the wake of corruption scandals. Only two men have held the office since 1974, but a record five candidates are competing on Friday for the votes of 207 of FIFA’s 209 member associations. Two associations are currently suspended. Following is a brief history of the FIFA presidency: PARIS, 1904 FIFA’s seven founding members - Belgium, Denmark, France, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland - unanimously elected Frenchman Robert Guerin as FIFA’s first president. BERNE, 1906 Daniel Burley Woolfall became the first of three Englishmen to hold the position. He helped to standardise the rules of the game internationally and to organise the soccer tournament at the 1908 London Olympics. He died in 1918, and Carl Anton Hirschmann of the Netherlands took over as interim president. ANTWERP, 1920 After the upheavals of World War One, a provisional board was elected with Frenchman Jules Rimet as its chairman. Member associations then formally elected him FIFA president by postal vote, and he took office in 1921. Rimet oversaw the birth of the World Cup in 1930 and held the position for 33 years, the longest of any president. BERNE, 1954 Rodolphe Seeldrayers of Belgium succeeded Rimet, but he died in office just over a year later. Ernst Thommen of Switzerland took over as acting president. LISBON, 1956 Arthur Drewry of England was elected. He died in office in 1961. LONDON, 1961 Another Englishman, Stanley Rous, was elected at an extraordinary Congress. FRANKFURT, 1974 Rous was beaten in an election by Brazil’s Joao Havelange, who became FIFA’s first president from outside Europe, securing votes by promising funding and World Cup places to Asian and African countries. It was the moment the modern FIFA was born. Havelange never faced a challenge to his presidency, standing unopposed for five

straight terms until he eventually retired in 1998, aged 82. PARIS, 1998 Blatter, FIFA’s secretary general, defeated Lennart Johansson, president of the European soccer federation, UEFA, after a fierce fourmonth election campaign. SEOUL, 2002 Blatter was challenged by Issa Hayatou of Cameroun, president of the African confederation (CAF). Shortly before the election, 11 FIFA Executive Committee members including Secretary General Michel Zen-Ruffinen filed a formal legal complaint in Switzerland accusing Blatter of an abuse of power and misuse of funds. Blatter won the vote nevertheless, defeating Hayatou by 139 votes to 56. Zen-Ruffinen left his post and the complaint was withdrawn. ZURICH, 2007 Blatter was re-elected unchallenged. ZURICH, 2011 Blatter was challenged by Qatari Mohamed Bin Hammam, the president of the Asian confederation (AFC) who had supported him against Hayatou in 2002. A week before the election, Bin Hammam was accused of offering bribes for votes at a meeting of Caribbean delegates in Trinidad and withdrew his candidacy, leaving Blatter to be re-elected unopposed, although a formal vote was still held. Bin Hammam was subsequently banned from football for life. ZURICH, 2015 Two days before the election, American and Swiss authorities arrested a number of soccer officials on suspicion of corruption, some of them FIFA figures gathered in Zurich for the Congress, plucked in a dawn raid from the luxury hotel where they were staying. It was the start of the crisis that has led to this week’s Congress and the vote for a new president. Prince Ali Bin Al-Hussein of Jordan polled 73 votes to Blatter’s 133 as the Swiss secured a fifth term in office. But four days later, the pressure from the growing scandal prompted Blatter to announce that he was stepping down. In December, Fifa’s Ethics Committee found him guilty of ethics violations and banned him from soccer for eight years. Hayatou, the senior FIFA vice-president, has been acting as interim president.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sports

Thursday, February 25, 2016

FROT Group seals N2.5m Edo FA Cup deal

ROT Group, an energy and construction company, has signed a contract worth N2.5million with the Edo State Football Association for the sponsorship of the 2016 Edo Football Association Cup. The deal will see this year’s winners earn N500,000, the biggest ever prize money to be received by champions of the competition. President of the Lekki-based company, Frank Momoh, says he is excited to be part of the revival of the state’s football by the Edo FA. “Growing up, football in Edo was the main thing; the state was bubbling with football activities but along the line, things started going the wrong way. Today, we have seen the efforts being put in by the Frank Ilaboyaled board, and I think it is important we encourage them through sponsorship. “We’re happy to be part of this revival plan and we hope our support will go a long way in bringing back the

glamour of football in the state,” Momoh said. According to the Chairman, Edo State FA, Frank Ilaboya, the sponsorship deal with FROT Group will add glamour to this year’s competition. “Last year, everybody commended us for our efforts; this year, we will definitely do more especially with the coming on board of FROT Group as our sponsors. “This year’s prize money is the biggest in the history of the tournament in the state, and this will definitely spur the clubs and the players to put in their best. “We’re very grateful to FROT Group for this wonderful support,” Ilaboya stated. Over 25 clubs have registered for this year’s tournament, which begins on March 19, 2016. Last year, Edo State representatives in the Federation Cup, BJ Foundation and Kukuruku Dragons, were the giant-killers in the competition, as they defeated the big sides to reach the Rounds of 16 and 32 respectively.

Harrison eyes Guinness Book of World Records Ifeanyi Eduzor

rganising Committee of Rafiu Oladipo Sports Foundation has announced March 6th as the day a Nigerian, Harrison Chinedu, will try to break the Guinness Book of World Records for travelling the farthest distance balancing a ball on the head. Chinedu, a professional footballer based in Cambodia will on that day; try to erase the record set by Indian soldier, Naib Subedar Azad Singh, who in 2014 travelled a distance of 45.64 km to break the previous record set by Abdul Halim of Bangladesh who travelled a distance of 15.2 km on October 22, 2011. To break the record, he is expected to start his journey from Kilometre 46, Lagos- Ibadan Express road (Redeemed Camp) and terminate it at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. Disclosing this to journalists during a World Press Conference to herald the event, chairman of the foundation, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, noted that the body decided to support him in order to put Nigeria in world map even as he announced that the foundation is in close contact with the Guinness Book of World Records office in London who have promised to send representatives that will authenticate the record. “The foundation is organising the event to help a young Nigerian achieve his aim of putting the name of the country on the world map. He will start the journey from the Redeemed Camp and terminate it at the National Stadium, Surulere and by the time he gets to the toll gate, he must have travelled 46 kilometres to break the record. “We are also in contact with officials of the Guinness Book of World Records who have not only given us the guidelines of the event but have also promised to be in Nigeria to supervise and authenticate the record. According to Ladipo, a government registered surveyor has also been contacted to measure the distance just as he announced that arrangement has been made with the Police, Federal Road Safety Corps and Lagos State Traffic Management Agen-

Permsec pledges support for NSSF programmes

he Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mr. Christian Ohaa, has lauded activities of the Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF), promising to support its laudable programmes both locally and internationally. Ohaa made the promise during a courtesy visit to him by the leadership of the NSSF led by its president, Mallam Ibrahim Muhammad. Muhammad visited the Permsec with the NSSF Treasurer, Pastor Austin Jonah, during which he intimated their host with the programmes of the NSSF which include the annual National School Sports Festival where students from primary and secondary schools across the country compete in U-13, U-15 and U-17 categories in many sports. As the bonafide custodians of the organisation of primary and secondary sports programmes in the country, Muhammad noted that the visit became necessary in order to inform the ministry of its activities. “We decided to pay you this visit to intimate you of our programmes and relevance in sports development as the custodians of all primary and secondary schools sports programmes/festivals in the country. We are fully entrenched in grassroots sports development where talents are being discovered and nurtured for the future,” the NSSF boss said.

StarTimes secures African Basketball League David Audu

Harrison

cy to provide security on the route that day. Ladipo who also doubles as President General of Nigeria Football Supporters Club, while commending one of the biggest sports betting company in the country, bet9ja for sponsoring the event and Lagos State Government for interest shown to be part of the history making event, expressed confidence that Harrison will break the record. Harrison told National Mirror that he is confident of breaking the record because he has trekked the distance on three occasions as part of his preparations as well as trekked around Lagos with the ball balanced on his head.

everaging on its drive for a digital television experience in Africa, StarTimes has announced that it has secured live broadcasts rights of the Best of African Basketball Action on the TRACE Sports Stars channel scheduled to start in March 2016. Commenting on the new development, Managing Director of Media Department and Vice President, StarTimes Group, Michael Dearham, said the company is very excited to bring African basketball onto the StarTimes platform and believe the various matches will provide their sport loving subscribers with some high quality entertainment. “Basketball fans will be able to enjoy the African Basketball League (ABL) at its best, including the All Star Games, Play offs and behind the scenes shown live on TRACE channels and TRACE Sport Stars, the first global entertainment channel dedicated to the lives of stars in the world of sport,” Dearham said. Beginning from April 4th, Nigerian teams, Lagos Islanders, Stallions and Lagos Warriors will join other Africa clubs, Dakar Rapids from Senegal, Abidjan Ramblers from the Cote d’Ivoire and Izobe Basketball Club from Libreville in what will be nail-biting matches. The Landmark stadium with a capacity of over 4,000 will be the venue for all of the Lagos team’s home games. “This is a historic moment for the ABL and will contribute greatly to the growth of professional basketball within the African continent. We are excited to feed the appetite of basketball lovers all across the world” said the Chief Executive Officer of ABL, Ugo Udezue. TRACE Sports Stars is available on the StarTimes DTT channel 260, Classic bouquet, and DTH channel NBBF boss, 254, Smart bou- Umar quet.

WORLD RECORD

Largest stick bomb The largest stick bomb consists of 30,849 sticks and was achieved by the Tulln Domino Team (Austria) at the BSZ-Turnhalle, Tulln, Austria, on 30 March 2015.

N150

Vol. 05 No. 1314 Thursday, February 25, 2016

Amaju Pinnick and a dicey header

y friends all, I don’t envy the President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and his henchmen at the moment. Not only must they be having sleepless nights grappling with the general administration of soccer, the upcoming Trojan battle, the two-legged spectacle between our Super Eagles and the Pharaohs of Egypt within a space of days, is one hell of a problem to be solved. And their headache is yet exacerbated by a combination of minor agues like an ailing and crudely vociferous, soccer-fan-bashing coach, a gale of noted players calling it quits and the perennial dilemma of knowing the right legs to choose from the throng of talents the nation is blessed with. I know the NFF, like other Nigerians, want to win both the battle and the war. A match between these two nations is a ‘classico’ any day. The

anned FIFA president, Sepp Blatter, has postponed publishing his book on 18 years at the top of scandal-plagued FIFA because he wants to squeeze in the final chapter on his ban from soccer, his publisher said yesterday. The 300-page book, written by Blatter’s adviser, Thomas Renggli,

Guest Columnist

Sola S l

Ojewusi

matches would come again with the historical fireworks and none of the opposing administrators will by now be having a luxury of assurance. Even the Egyptians are showing the strain of the pressure, recalling some 43 year old goal-keeper in their uncertain quest to solve the Nigerian problem. the ensuing fray will manufacture stupendous storms. In spite of the dicey nature of this battle, Nigerians nevertheless still want to win. That is why Amaju Pinnick has to deliver the head of this Pharaoh to us at all costs. Amaju’s love for Nigerian football and his great desire for its renaissance are not in doubt. Some may see him as an arrogant, intractable administrator ready to do fisticuffs in the quest to assert his determination to make a difference, but I see a brilliant mind grappling with the vagaries of a thankless job. I am sure this will surprise Amaju. I am supposed to use this opportunity to get back at him for a misunderstanding between us in the past. But the truth about a man’s commitment to his calling must be told. Despite my sentiments, I must give this man his well deserved due at the helm of a very volatile body. Besides the President, I don’t know any other head of a federal institution at greater risk of daily excoriation and pillorying by the soccer-mad Nigerian citizenry. Every Nigerian seems to have an answer to every

A MATCH BETWEEN THESE TWO NATIONS IS A ‘CLASSICO’ ANY DAY problem facing soccer. And so when a man must grapple with about 200 million diverse opinions, only the greatest resilience of spirit would keep such a mind sane. But, somehow, the recent spat with Giwa, his resilient rival notwithstanding, Amaju has exhibited an admirable grace under fire. We cannot indeed deny him his achievements so far. The U-17 World Cup retention is one. The Africa Under-20 triumph in Senegal is another. Not to mention the qualification of the Dream Team for the Olympics. Given his clear sense of mission in spite of his “stubbor nness” I think Nigerians should stand by Amaju and his team in the arduous battle against the wounded Pharaohs. Having said that, Amaju and co must not be complacent. All loopholes that may stymie our dream of overcoming the shame of missing the last edition must be blocked. Controversies that have sapped the will of our players in the past and squelched their fighting spirit must not be allowed to chance. Amaju must retain his reputation as a man of mission, ensuring that the unity of purpose

required to prosecute this uproarious war is upheld by his people, administrators, coaches, players and all. In an important battle, two lines of action are dangerous. To act precipitately will only give the foe an edge. To also act with levity will make the quest for victory a mirage. Definiteness of purpose, the type that made the recent victories in Chile and Senegal and the Olympics ticket possible must be sustained with an even more cogent sense of mission. Asking God to help us defeat these brotherly foes on the turf will not suffice. Indeed, I consider it one of the greatest faux pas of Nigerian soccer history. We don’t have a monopoly of God in the game of soccer, or any game at all. We can ask God to protect our players from injury and silly mistakes, but asking God, the father of all, to be partial against another of his children is to me another of the Nigerian strategic blunders. What am I saying? The NFF, the players and all must tighten their belts of resolve and re-ordain the will to triumph. We still have an abundance of warrior players, who would prosecute this battle for us. The never-say-die Nigerian spirit is still alive. We only need to dig deeper and revive that fighting spirit that made the so-called Damman miracle or the Atlanta Olympics triumph or any other epochal success possible. We still have the time to go for the best players to do this war. Amaju and co need to be very retrospective in taking all pro-victory decisions towards the double-slammer royal rumble in March. If this match is well prosecuted and is seen by Nigerians so, the outcome, no matter what, would not be the issue, really. Amaju and co, we can win this battle. But let us begin to win it now! Ojewusi wrote via solaojewusi@ yahoo.com

Sport Extra

Blatter puts biography launch on hold in cooperation with Blatter, will go on sale for 39 Swiss francs ($39.25), according to the publisher’s website. “Sepp Blatter: Mission Football” was originally scheduled for release this month, promising an account of “one of the most impressive and successful careers in sports policy”.

Sports fans had also been hoping for the inside story on the corruption scandal that erupted on Blatter’s watch at world soccer’s governing body, triggering investigations and indictments in the United States and Switzerland. But they will now have to wait

until April for the German version, after the conclusion of Blatter’s appeal against his ban and the election to replace him, Swiss publisher, Werd & Webe,r said. An English translation will follow in May or June, said Alain Diezig, an editor at the firm.

Sepp Blatter

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