Monday, september 21, 2015 (new 4) by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

Buhari has no hand in Saraki’s travail –Presidency

THE

BUSINESS SECTION

NNPC secures $1.2bn alternative funding arrangement for 36 oil wells

Prosecution politically motivated -Ilorin Union

Vol. 5 N0. 1204

Bukola Saraki at the Code of Conduct Tribunal, CCT. A statement issued by Senior Special Assistant

he Presidency yesterday said President Muhammadu Buhari has no hand in the trial of Senate President

WOLE ADEDEJI AND ROTIMI FADEYI

Monday, September 21, 2015

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

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FG to give HID Awolowo state burial How Mama breathed her last –Eldest daughter

FEMI OYEWESO AND KEMI OLAITAN

ederal Government yesterday declared it was ready to give Yeye Oodua and the late matriarch of Awolowo dynasty, Hannah Dideolu Awolowo, a befitting state burial if the family would CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

NCAA grounds two aircraft over false documents, illegal operations P.6

Flood kills 53, displaces 100,420 people in 11 states P.12

L-R: Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; former Interim National Chairman, APC, Chief Bisi Akande; National Leader, All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi; first daughter of the deceased, Mrs. Omotola Oyediran; Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; Oba Olaniwun Ajayi (SAN) and Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, during the governors' condolence visit to the family of the late Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo at their Ikenne residence in Ogun State, yesterday.

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Updated Sept 9, 2015

News

Monday, September 21, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FG to give HID Awolowo state burial CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

consent to such arrangement. Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Babachir David Lawal, who led a Federal Government delegation to the Awolowo’s Ikene home, dropped the hint while delivering President Muhammadu Buhari’s condolence message to the family. The delegation, which visited the Awolowo family, included the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, Gen. Abayomi Olonisaki, Chief of Staff, Abba Yari as well as Ambassador Babagana Kingibe among others. Speaking further, the SGF stated that President Buhari instructed the delegation to inform the family of the readiness of the Federal Government to give all necessary support for a befitting burial of the late First Lady of the old Western Region. Lawal, who said he was with the president when the news of the death was broken to him, explained that Buhari became “distraught upon receiving the news. “President Muhammadu Buhari sent us here to condole with the immediate family of Awolowo, the Yoruba, Nigerians and Africa at large. “I was with the president when the VP broke the news and from the countenance, the president was distraught. But as believers, we know death is a transition. “She has gone to be with the Lord. We can only thank God and celebrate her life and not mourn,” he added. Lawal stated that the present government under Buhari only regretted the death of Mama HID Awolowo, because she did not live for another two years to witness the great transformation of Nigeria. “Our only regret is that Mama did not live to see the transformation the country will undergo with active participation of her son-in-law and grandchild,” he added. The SGF, who described President Buhari as the chief mourner of the departed soul said, “On behalf of PMB who has offered to participate in the

burial, we wish that God grants you the fortitude to bear the loss.” In his own speech, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo said the late Mama Awolowo lived all her life for one united Nigeria. Osinbajo, who initially declined to make any comment after the SGF had spoken, however, said he was still in shock over her death. The VP declared that the late matriarch was a repository of knowledge and a custodian of information and an important

part of the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He expressed his sadness that Mama would not witness a new Nigeria of her dream. The Ikenne home of the Awolowos yesterday continued to play host to eminent Nigerians, particularly members of the political class on condolence visit. Among the early callers were former governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, daughter of the late foremost educationist, Ms. Corin Solarin,

former member of the National Assembly, Senator Adegbenga Kaka among others. They all participated in a short Christian service held in the Family Chapel, Efunyela Hall, in honour of the matriarch. The service was conducted by Venerable Emmanuel Adegbuyi, from the Diocese of Remo (Anglican Communion) with a minute silence observed in her honour. Former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu led other

members of the political class, particularly South West governors to the Awolowo home. The delegation included Akinwunmi Ambode (Lagos), Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), as well as Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) who arrived the venue in company of Chief Bisi Akande. Others included former governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, who joined the acting governor of Ogun State, Yetunde Onanuga to receive visitors.

Elated children of Internally Displaced Persons at a mixed primary school reopened by the Nigerian military in Gwoza, on Friday.

Former Ogun State governor, Aremo Segun Osoba, however, arrived the Awolowo’s home in company of the Vice President Osinbajo, while Ondo State governor, Olusegun Mimiko and former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Osun State, Iyiola Omisore joined later. In his tribute, Tinubu said the late HID should be celebrated because her life had been a source of strength and inspiration for many Nigerians, parCONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

PHOTO: NAN

NNPC secures $1.2bn alternative funding arrangement for 36 oil wells CHIDI UGWU

ABUJA

igerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, has secured a $1.2bn multiyear drilling financing package for 36 Offshore/ Onshore Oil wells under the NNPC/Chevron Nigeria Limited Joint Venture. Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division , Ohi Alegbe in a statement said the move is designed to supplement the Federal Government’s Cash-Call commitment. According to the statement, the funding package, which is being financed by a consortium of Nigerian and International lenders is an integral part of the Accelerated Upstream Financing Programme initiated by the Corporation to address the perennial chal-

lenge experienced by the Federal Government in providing its counter-part funding of JV upstream activities. It also envisaged that the initiative apart from supplementing the CashCall commitment would help in the maintenance of current production levels in the short term as well as replacing depleting reserves. Breakdown of the NNPC/Chevron JV deal, which was executed at a signing-ceremony in London over the weekend indicate that the $1.2bn is to be channeled into the development of 23 onshore and 13 offshore wells on OML 49, 90 and 95 in two stages over 2015- 2018. Stage one comprising 19 wells is projected to deliver 21, 000 barrels of crude oil and condensate per day alongside 120,000 million standard

cubic feet of gas per day, mmscf/d, over 2015 and 2016. Stage two, comprising 17 wells is projected to yield 20,000 barrels of crude oil and condensate per day alongside gas production of 7mmscf/d between 2016 and 2018. It is envisaged that both stages of the project would generate $2 to $5bn of incremental revenue to the Federation Account. Beyond the contribution to the national treasury, the projected peak incremental gas production of 127mmscf/d, which is the electricity equivalent of 400megawatts would help boost the Federal Government’s domestic gas aspirations with expectant positive effect on power supply. Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, Group Managing Director of NNPC, described the

new alternative funding arrangement as the new contractual model in upstream financing which would serve as a template for future initiative to supplement the Federal Government’s Joint Venture Cash Call commitment. While commending the NNPC/ Chevron Joint Finance Team and the Consortium of local and international lenders led by Standard Chartered Bank and UBA for a job well done, the GMD noted that the Corporation will not relent in the renewed effort to restore probity and transparency to the process of generation, collection and remittance of crude oil proceeds. “I have always believed that issues of Federation Accounts must be left sacrosanct and not to be toyed with. The Accelerated Upstream Financing

Programme is designed to help us achieve this objective,” he said. Managing Director of Chevron Nigeria Limited, Clay Neff, pledged the readiness of Chevron to work assiduously with NNPC to meet its set target in the project. With the completion of its financing, Project Cheetah stands as the pioneer project under the Accelerated Upstream Financing Programme of NNPC. The project is operated under the NNPC/CNL JV which is owned on a 6040 basis in favour of the NNPC. The NNPC/CNL Joint Venture is reputed as the 3rd largest producer in Nigeria. Project Cheetah is projected to achieve a peak incremental production of 61 million barrels of oil equivalent per day.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

PAGE

Monday, September 21, 2015

Good Health

Well breastfed babies have high 1Q –Experts

...improve educational attainment and earning ability FRANKA OSAKWE

our child can actually become super intelligent and successful adult if well breastfed at infant. Series of studies and expert opinions have backed this claim. For instance, a major long term study of 6,000 babies from all background, finds that Children who had been breastfed for 12 months had an IQ that was four points higher than those breastfed for less than a month. The Researchers followed nearly 6,000 babies from birth for the past three decades, enabling them for the first time to get an idea of the longterm effects of breastfeeding. Nearly 3,500 of the babies, now 30-year-old adults, accepted to be interviewed and sit for IQ tests for the purpose of the study. The researchers found that those who had been breastfed proved to be more intelligent, did well in school and earned more than those who had not been. And the longer they were breastfed as a baby, the better they tended to be doing, the report said. The result, published in the Lancet Global Health journal, took account of family income at birth, parental schooling, genomic ancestry, maternal smoking during pregnancy, maternal age, birth weight and type of delivery to try to avoid any of those factors skewing the results. “Our study provides the first evidence that prolonged breastfeeding not only increases intelligence until at least the age of 30 years but also has an impact both at an individual and societal level by improving educational attainment and earning ability,” the lead researcher, Dr Bernardo

Lessa Horta from the Federal University of Pelotas in Brazil, said. A similar report by Harvard University researchers, published in JAMA Paediatrics, showed that young children who were breastfed as infants scored higher on intelligence tests than formula-fed kids. The researchers analyzed 1,312 expectant mothers enrolled in Project Viva, a study in eastern Massachusetts examining pregnancy and child health, and the children they delivered. They found that 7-year-olds whose moms practiced breastfeeding during the child’s first year, whether exclusively or in combination with formula - gained a little more than a third of a point in verbal IQ during each month of breastfeeding compared to children who were never breastfed. Those 7-year-olds showed an increase of four-fifths of a point in verbal IQ each month over children who were never breastfed. That translates into a 4.8 point gain in verbal IQ if exclusively breastfed during their entire first six months of life. Now this discovery is timely considering the undesirable trend of poor performance recorded by Nigerian students at public exams such as The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and Joint Admission and Matriculation (JAMB) exams. Report of last WAEC by the council showed that less than 45 per cent of those who sat for the 2015 West African Senior School Certificate Exams (WASSCE) passed with credit grade and above. The cause of this poor academic performance can be traced to poor nutrition and inadequate breastfeeding during the first 1000 days of life, experts insist.

DID YOU KNOW?

Working long hours may prevent pregnancy

orking long hours and regularly engaging in heavy lifting may impact women’s ability to get pregnant, according to a new study published in the journal Occupational & Environmental Medicine. Lead study author Dr. Audrey J. Gaskins, of the Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health in Boston, MA, and colleagues reached their findings by analyzing the data of 1,739 women of an average age of 33 who were part of the 2010-2014 Nurses’ Health Study. All women included in the analysis were attempting to get pregnant. At study baseline, participants completed

a questionnaire that detailed their work schedules and physical labour. The team assessed participants every 6 months to determine how long it was taking them to conceive. Around 44% of the women included in the study were overweight or obese, according to the researchers, while 22% were current or former smokers. Most of the women worked days or nights only, while 16% worked rotating shifts. More than 30% of women reported working for more than 8 hours daily, while 40% said they lifted heavy loads up to five times each day.

The National President, Paediatric Association of Nigeria, Prof. Adebiyi Olowu, who spoke at the occasion of the 10th Nutrition Seminar of FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria, explained that adequate nutrition during the first 1000 days is essential to brain development. The adequate nutrition he said includes exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months, followed by complementary food rich in essential nutrients. Another scholar, Prof. Ngozi Nnam, The President, Nutrition Society of Nigeria, further explained that the period determines how brainy and healthy a child would be for the rest of his or her life. She said inadequate supply of nutrients during the first 1000 days leads to insult in the brain, meaning that the brain is stunted and the IQ reduced by at least 13.5 points. This situation according to her is irreversible so the child with reduced IQ will end up a dunce for life. Breast milk is a total food, able to exclusively supply all of infants’ nutritional

esearchers from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute report that regular caffeinated coffee intake may be associated with significantly reduced cancer recurrence and improved survival in patients with stage 3 colon cancer. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, found that the greatest benefit came from consuming four or more cups of coffee a day. “We found that coffee drinkers had a lower risk of the cancer coming back and a significantly greater survival and chance of a cure,” says lead author Charles Fuchs, director of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Center at Dana-Farber.

needs, the World Health Organization said while estimating that around 220,000 children could be saved every year with exclusive breastfeeding. It recommends that breast milk be given within the first hour of birth, a process referred to as early initiation. “Infants breast fed within the first hour of birth are three times more likely to survive than those who have their first breast milk after a day. Exclusive breastfeeding should be given from birth up to 6 months and continued breastfeeding is recommended with appropriate complementary food until the child celebrates his/her second year birth day”, the association said. Unfortunately, reports from Nigeria demographic Health Survey (NDHS), showed that only about 17 per cent of Nigerian children are exclusive breastfeeding, a situation which has led to high rates of malnutrition, lowered resistance to infection and death from common childhood illnesses.

Daily coffee could heal colon cancer According to the authors, previous studies found increased coffee consumption associated with decreased risk of type 2 diabetes and increased insulin sensitivity, but, the effect of coffee consumption on colon cancer survival and recurrence was not yet discovered prior to the research. For the study, 953 patients with stage 3 colon cancer completed dietary pattern questionnaires during and 6 months after receiving chemotherapy. The researchers specifically focused on the influence of coffee, non-herbal tea and caffeine on cancer recurrence and mortality.

Photo News

Monday, September 21, 2015

L-R: Head, Fundrasing, Toyin Ekpeneidua; Director, Finance/Operations, ActionAid, Oluwole Elegbede; Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Sesan Sobowale and Sustainable Development Manager, Osita Abana, at the handover of Mattresses for Internally Displaced Persons donated by Guinness Nigeria to ActionAid, at Guinness Nigeria Headquarters, Ikeja, recently.

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Yinka Sanni; former Lagos State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Wale Edun; Chief of Staff to the Vice President, Mr. Ade Ipaye; Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Mrs. Sola David-Borha and Chairman, Mr. Atedo Peterside, during the 2015 Standard Bank West Africa Investors Conference dinner in Lagos, at the weekend.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Lafarge Friends of Community, Mr. Kenneth Ohiorenoya, student of Ifeoluwa Primary School, Agege, Ageni Joseph; student of St. Agnes Primary School, Amos Hameedah; winners South West, representing Lagos State and Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board, Mrs. Bunmi Oteju, during the presentation of first price gifts & certificates to winners of Southwest Regional leg of the Lafarge Ovie Brume Literacy Competition, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, recently.

L-R: National Coordinator, Special Marshals, Abuja, Dr. Sini Kwade; Commandant, Army Headquarters Garrison, Brig.- Gen. Abba Dikko; Deputy Corps Marshal, FRSC, Kabir Lawal and representative of Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Transport, Mr. Benjamin Elisha, during the September 2015 edition of monthly walking /jogging exercise, in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

National News

Buhari imposing dictatorship on Nigeria – PDP insists Obiora Ifoh ABUJA

eoples Democratic Party, PDP, yesterday said no amount of blackmail and diversionary tactics by the All Progressives Congress, APC, would deter it from exposing the deliberate agenda, already in motion, by the present administration to destroy the country’s democracy and impose a dictatorship. The party said by resorting to insults, threats and personal attacks on its leaders, instead of responding to issues of emerging fascism it raised on Saturday, APC and the Federal Government further confirmed their intolerance, disdain for democracy and frenetic appetite for totalitarianism. PDP National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, in a statement in Abuja said Nigerians await answers to issues and would not be hoodwinked by the antics of APC’s spokesperson, Al-

•Accusations, needless distractions –APC haji Lai Mohammed. “While we understand the nervousness of Alhaji Lai Mohammed to remain relevant, especially in the face of desperation for an appointment, this administration must come to terms with the fact that democracy requires accountability, adherence to the rule of law and constitutional order, and not the crass infractions, executive arrogance, intolerance and undermining of the legislature; the symbol of the sovereignty of the people that we now witness under the APC,” the statement said. PDP, however, restates its commitment in providing issue-based opposition as well as its support for the fight against corruption. However, APC, in its reply said the rash of wild accusations against the Federal Government has confirmed its earlier statement that PDP has perfected plans to distract the Bu-

hari administration from its onerous task of reviving the country’s fortunes. “The PDP is wondering why we are not responding to the wild accusations emanating from their fertile imagination. It is because we consider the accusations nothing but an irritant,” the party said in a statement issued in Lagos by Alhaji Lai Mohammed. APC said there was no doubt that in issuing his statements, the PDP spokesman most often mistakes the APC for his party, hence he keeps attributing to the ruling party, the failings of his own party. This same failings, he added, propelled the former ruling party into the opposition. “Mr. Metuh wrote that ‘this administration must come to terms with the fact that democracy requires accountability, adherence to the rule of law and constitutional order’, very interesting, because if the PDP

had known all that, it would still have remained in power at the centre. “It is therefore clear that the PDP spokesman has been so traumatised by the defeat of his party that he sometimes imagine he is writing about the APC when indeed he is listing the failings of his fallen party, the PDP,” APC said. On a personal note, Mohammed challenged Mr. Metuh to substantiate the

claim in his statement about contracts allegedly awarded to him or be ready to do so in court. “For the avoidance of any doubt, the APC spokesman has never been involved in any airport fencing contract in Osun or any deal involving fraudulent purchase or supply of ambulances anywhere in Nigeria,” the statement said. APC insisted that Mr. Metuh is mortally afraid that

he could be consumed by the ongoing anti-corruption battle, because of the allegations of graft hanging on his neck, as contained in published petitions to the anti-graft agencies from within his own party, rather than mere conjecture from anyone “Mr. Metuh’s assault on the Buhari administration’s anti-corruption battle is a futile attempt at saving his own neck and that of his party,” it added.

‘Nigeria, biggest beneficiary from Afreximbank’s loans, projects’

igeria is the biggest beneficiary from Afreximexbank’s loans and projects, the bank’s President, Mr Jean-Louis Ekra, has said. Ekra disclosed this at a press conference in Cairo yesterday as part of activities marking inauguration of the head office of the bank.

He said that as a multilateral finance institution, the bank had never discriminated against any African country in spite of having its head office in Cairo. The bank boss also said 37 African governments had shares in Afreximbank, explaining that projects were always financed

based on merit. Ekra listed some projects the bank financed in Nigeria to include power sector, oil and gas as well as projects involved in the development of local contents. He said a Nigerian construction firm designed the $14m head office of the bank in Cairo.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Monday, September 21, 2015

Buhari has no hand in Saraki’s travail –Presidency CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

to the President on Media mad Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu said attempts to link the ongoing trial of Saraki to the Presidency are unacceptable. According to Shehu, views to the effect that the Code of Conduct Bureau, CCB, and CCT can only act upon external instigation are equally uninformed. He stated that there is no place in law that the Bureau and the tribunal should take instructions from any quarters. Shehu pointed out that as an independent institution equal to any superior court of record, the tribunal is set up by the constitution to determine issue of default, false declaration or forgery in assets declaration, stressing that it was purely a judicial process and has nothing to do with the presidency. “If anyone has an axe to grind with what they are doing, they should do it in a judicial manner by challenging those actions in a proper court of law. Let them hire a good team of lawyers to prove their innocence. “Government has no desire to persecute anybody. The President has vowed

to respect the rule of law and this is what he is doing by staying out of this matter. He has said times without number that the war against corruption has no sacred cows. “Even if the President wants to help, there is no way he can do anything. Is he going to ask the judge to stop the trial? “It is purely a judicial process, the types of which are routinely dealt with by CCB and CCT. There are many cases like this that are going on. “The President has sworn to an oath to protect the constitution and will not violate that oath,” Shehu said. But, Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union, IEDPU, said the ongoing travails of the Senate President was pure political motivation. A statement from Government House in Ilorin, yesterday, said the President of IEDPU, Alhaji Abdulhamid Adi said this while speaking on the recent visit of the union to Senator Saraki at the National Assembly complex, Abuja, “The National President of the IEDPU, Alhaji Abdulhamid Adi won-

Scores feared dead as explosions rock Maiduguri INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

any people have been reported dead as multiple explosions, yesterday, rocked Maiduguri, Borno State capital. The explosions occurred at Ajilari along Gomari Airport road. The area has witnessed series of attack by the Boko Haram insurgents. The explosions occurred simultaneously at about 7.38pm, while the last one took place at about 8pm. Many residents were forced to evacuate and fled into the main city for safety. It was being alleged that suicide bombers, who sneaked into the area from Sambisa forest were responsible for the attack. A survivor, Mallam Ali Babagana, told our correspondent on phone that the incident occurred at a

popular telecommunication service point where many people had gathered to buy recharge cards and carry out other petty businesses. Another source told our correspondent that four explosions occurred simultaneously. In another development, suspected Boko Haram members ambushed security forces along Maiduguri- Dikwa- Gamboru Ngala road on Saturday. However it could not be ascertained whether there were casualties as a result of the poor telecommunications network in the area. But sources said both sides suffered heavy casualties during the ambush. When contacted, Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 7 Division, Maiduguri, Colonel Tukur Gusau promised to get back after being briefed by troops in the affected communities.

dered why the Code of Conduct Bureau failed to raise any issue concerning the Senate President's asset declaration forms since 2003. “The 12 years interval to unearth the alleged is-

sue by the Code of Conduct Bureau and the way the Code of Conduct Tribunal is handling the issue is suspicious. “I see it more or less a political persecution. It is purely political. Maybe

there are some political opponents that are trying to get at him,” Alhaji Adi said. He said CCB should not allow itself to be used to achieve certain political gains but do its jobs with-

out external influence. The body expressed its solidarity with Saraki saying; “We believe he will come out of it. He is presumed innocent until proven otherwise.”

L-R: Vice Prime Minister, Democratic Republic of Congo, Thomas Luhaka; President, African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina;, Prime Minister, Côte d’Ivoire, Daniel Kablan Duncan and Chairman, Heirs Holdings and Founding Co-Chair, African Energy Leaders Group, Mr. Tony Elumelu, at a High Level Consultative Stakeholders Meeting themed "Towards a New Deal on Energy for Africa" at the AfDB Headquarters, Abidjan, Cote D'Ivoire, at the weekend.

FG to give HID Awolowo state burial CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

ticularly politicians who were tutored by the late Obafemi Awolowo. Aregbesola noted that he was hit by a strong sense of loss when Dr Fayemi called his attention to the news, but had to bear the pain. Ambode said Yoruba race must unite now more than never before to “celebrate the Yoruba nation and the progressivism Papa Awo envisioned and worked for and which also Mama sustained till her death.” Akande charged the children to ensure that the attraction that makes people to always converge in Ikenne home of the Awolowos are sustained. Leader, Yoruba Obas Conflicts Resolution Committee and the Olugbo of Ugboland, Oba Obateru Akinruntan, while commiserating with the Awolowo family yesterday described the death of HID as the end of a rich era of perseverance, industry, service to God and humanity. The monarch, while recalling how the Yoruba

Obas Conflicts Resolution Committee was set up at the instance of Mama Awolowo, in Ikenne to unite Yoruba Obas, in a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, stated that her death coming at this time, few weeks to her 100th birthday anniversary and about two months after the death of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade, is a great loss to the Yoruba race. “Mama is a symbol of peace and I pray to God to grant the entire Awolowo family, the Yoruba race and the nation as a whole the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and may her gentle soul rest in peace,” he said. Meanwhile, the eldest daughter of the Awolowo family, Reverend (Mrs) Omotola Oyediran yesterday gave an insight into how the Yeye Oodua breath her last on Saturday afternoon. Oyediran, while responding to several encomiums showered on late Mama HID during her vote of thanks, explained that the deceased had requested for pounded yam

(Iyan), which was to be served with vegetable for her breakfast. She however said she objected to it on the grounds that the 99 years old Yeye Oba of Yorubaland shouldn't have a heavy meal for breakfast. Mrs. Oyediran further stated that as the eldest daughter, she had her way and later served her with a light food of pap (ogi) and thereafter, began to hold series of meeting with them and other relatives in respect of the envisaged Centenary birthday slated for November 25th. Oyediran further stated that at launch time, Mama HID ate pounded yam and vegetable soup before retiring to bed to observe her siesta but shortly after, someone called to notify the family that Mama was having difficulty with breathing. Expectedly, she, Dr Tokunbo Awolowo Dosunmu, four of her grandchildren and a representative of the great grandchildren rally round Mama on her bed before passing by 3:15pm. “We are still in shock about the death of Mama

because she was full of health and beauty yesterday. No wonder my father married her and also described her as his jewel of inestimable value. “In the morning she demanded to eat pounded yam with vegetable soup and I told Mama, you can’t have a heavy meal in the morning. So, mama had pap before pounded yam and efo (vegetable soup) and went to bed. “Later, somebody called us to say she was not breathing properly, two of us - Tokunbo and I were present, I told Tokunbo, you are a doctor, why don’t you do something? “You can’t sit watching Mama, pick your tools and begin to massage her because we were disturbed about the breathing but she couldn’t make it and died. We will certainly miss her. “She passed away in the presence of three generations, her life is big challenge to us, she kept the faith, kept the Nigerian Tribune since 27 years after the death of Papa, we are still in a state of shock,” she added.

News

Monday, September 21, 2015

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NCAA grounds two aircraft over false documents, illegal operations OLUSEGUN KOIKI

or operating with falsified flight clearance information and conducting illegal domestic flight operations in the country, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, yesterday announced the grounding of two foreign registered aircraft with immediate effect. The two aircraft whose owners in Nigeria could not be immediately unveiled by our reporters are Bombardier 700-100 marked G-RBEN Global Express S/N 9083 operated by Gama Aviation, United Kingdom, and Embraer 135 J marked XA-MHA. Acting General Manager, Public Affairs, NCAA, Mr. Sam Adurogboye, in an online media statement stated that the operators of G-RBEN aircraft were found operating in Nigeria’s airspace with falsified flight clearance information and conducting illegal domestic flight operations in the country. He added that the operator was also caught conducting illegal commercial revenue flight operations contrary to conditions contained in Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, NCARs, Part 10 and security violations. Besides, it stated that preliminary investigations by its inspectors revealed that Embraer 135BJ registration marks XA-MHA was reported to

have landed at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, from London, Farnborough, without any flight clearance on September 10. He added that reports obtained from the Air Traffic Controllers, ATC, revealed that the crew informed them that they possessed a ministerial approval for the flight, but declared that on landing; the crew could not produce any ministerial approval as claimed while in the air. Adurogboye emphasized that the BD 700-100 was a United Kingdom Air Operators Certificate, AOC, holder and has been carrying out several domestic operations between Abuja and Lagos without the authority’s Permit/Certification in accordance with Nigerian CARs Part 10. The statement added, “While further investigation continues both aircraft remain grounded. The aircraft country registry in UK CAA and Mexican Civil Aviation Authority, MCAA, will be notified as appropriate. “The Legal and Enforcement department of NCAA will after the conclusion of the investigation proffer appropriate sanctions and enforcement procedure according to Nig. CARs.” It would be recalled NCAA had in March this year threatened to sanction all owners of foreign registered privately

operated aircraft in the country who have failed to regularise their documentation in conformity with their operational status. The NCAA had warned that the owners of such jets would face severe

sanctions from it very soon. The agency had threatened to ground all their operations, revoke their licenses and outright seizure of aircraft forthwith, insisting that the use of these operators’ aircraft

ENUGU

gainst the backdrop of financial challenges facing many states, Debt Management Office, DMO, has advised against unnecessary borrowing. Director-General of DMO, Dr Abraham Nwankwo, who handed down the caution in Enugu, advised government to only borrow when they want to use the money to fund projects that would have an impact on the growth and development of the economy. Nwankwo spoke over the weekend at the end of a one-day enlightenment

workshop for Civil Society Organisations, CSOs. He disclosed that as a way of lifting the states out of debt burden, the DMO had successfully restructured their debts into Federal Government bond. He said DMO went ahead to restructure the loan already taken by states from banks. “What we did was to ensure that the debt servicing burden is reduced. “We restructured them into Federal Government of Nigeria bonds; it is still their debt, but they no longer owe banks but the Federal Government and pay over a longer period. “It was made possible because there was already

tinued their business as usual. Former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, had in February threatened to sanction private jet owners who converted their equipment to commercial usage.

L-R: Senator representing Lagos East, Sen. Gbenga Ashafa; his colleague and awardee, Sen. Domingo Alaba and Rev. Babide Olowodola of Foursquare Gospel Church, during the 2015 African Achievers Award event, tagged “Global Excellence and Innovative Leadership,” in Abuja, recently.

NATFORCE battles EFCC, files contempt charge against Lamorde EMMANUEL EZEH ENUGU

ational Taskforce to Combat Illegal Importation of Small Arms, Ammunition, and Light Weapons, NATFORCE, yesterday faulted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for declaring its Director-General, Emmanuel Osita Okereke,

wanted. This is even as Okereke has filed a contempt charge against EFCC Chairman, Ibrahim Lamorde, and its Head, Media and Publicity, Wilson Uwujaren, before a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja. The anti-graft commission had last week declared Okereke wanted for allegedly jumping

DMO warns states against unnecessary borrowing EMMANUEL EZEH

for commercial operations is at variance with Nig. CARs 9.1.1.4[a][b], which it said was tantamount to gross violation. While some confirmed with the NCAA’s directive, several others waived it aside and con-

a bond market, which we have developed, through which we can issue 20-year bond. This has given relief to 23 states, which have met the requirements. Some of them, their debt burden has been reduced to 50 percent, some to 97 percent.” Nwankwo noted that when revenue is well managed and the amount borrowed covers only things government’s revenue could sufficiently cover, all levels of government would have the capacity to withstand financial crisis. “As debt managers we are very much concerned with the effectiveness and efficiency of the use of resources because one of the ways to ensure that you

do not borrow much is to ensure that whatever you have collected as revenue is well utilised. “If you maximise whatever you collected as revenue, the gap left for you to borrow will be less. So, for us as at the Debt Management Office, we are concerned and are keen in making sure that resources, whether borrowed or not, are transparently, efficiently and effectively managed so that waste and leakages are greatly reduced.” He also identified the diversification of the economy as a sure-fire way to reduce the vulnerability of both federal and state governments in the face of dwindling oil revenue.

bail. However, in a statement issued by Press Secretary to NATFORCE DG, Chuks Ezenwome, he described the EFCC action as not only unwarranted and cheap blackmail but also malicious. He stated that as a lawabiding citizen and respecter of principles of the rule of law, Dr Okereke never jumped bail but was always in his office at Citi Plaza, Area II, Garki, Abuja. According to him, “the publication by EFCC declaring our NATFORCE DG wanted on the pages of newspapers is not only targeted at the person of Dr. Osita Okereke (OON) and NATFORCE as an organisation, but disobedience of the order of an Abuja federal high court in suit No. FSHC/ABJ/ CS/391/2015 dated June 29, 2015, which directed ‘that status quo must be maintained until the hearing and determination of substantive suit. This order precludes the EFCC from harassing or intimidating Dr Okereke so as not to impede the operation of NATFORCE.”

Ezenwome said while the DG was not in court as a result of illness, his counsel tendered a medical report and the court “did not make any order as to bench warrant against Dr. Okereke or for the surety to show cause.” He explained that National Taskforce is not an illegal body as it was inaugurated by Federal Ministry of Finance on July 10, 2010 and that the organisation was assiduously pursuing its mandate. Ezenwome, however, enjoined Nigerians to continue to transact business with Okereke in all spheres as a person and as DG NATFORCE as an organization in its bid towards achieving its mandate of combating illegal importation small arms, ammunitions, light weapons and pipeline vandalism. The anti-g raft ag ency is prosecuting Okereke for alle g ed forg ery, obtaining under false pretence in a six-count charg e before Justice J. Y. Tukur of the FCT High Cour t, Apo, Abuja.

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National News

Monday, September 21, 2015

Nigerians eulogise H.I.D. Awolowo

Death created a vacuum –Senator Abiodun Nejo, Ado Ekiti

ational Assembly member, Senator Duro Faseyi, said yesterday that the death of the matriarch of the Awolowo family, Mrs Hannah Awolowo, had created a vacuum, describing it as one death too many in Yoruba land and Nigeria. Faseyi said although the deceased dıed at the ripe age of 99 years few weeks to her 100th birthday, the family, Yorubaland and entire nation

Loss of an epitome of honesty, S integrity, dignity –Atiku

Wole Adedeji, Ilorin

he had looked forward to celebrating her centenary birthday. In a statement released by his media office in Abuja on Sunday, September 20, he eulogised and paid glowing tributes to the departed Yeye Oba Adimula of Yorubaland and ageless national icon. The former vice president, who is also the Aare Adimula of the Source, described the grandmother of Mrs. Oludolapo Osinbajo, wife of the Vice President,

Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), as “an embodiment of primordial and contemporary history, symbol of traditional norms and virtues, a fashionista of repute and stickler to discipline and transparency; whose indelible imprints on the sands of time would be hard to erase.” The statement further stated that Atiku commiserates with Nigerians, the Yoruba, the people of Osun State and Ikenne and in particular, members of

the nuclear and extended Awolowo dynasty, on the demise of a great woman leader. Meanwhile, the former vice president has urged wives of leaders and aspiring female politicians to imbibe and emulate the legacies of endurance, patience, honesty, integrity and dignity that Mama Awolowo, “jewel of inestimable value”, bequeathed the nation, and the world at large, in the course of her centuryold sojourn on earth.

with her sterling personal and public life that made her a strong pillar behind one of the country’s foremost nationalists,’’ it said. The APC commiserated with the children, grand children, great grand children and the entire Awolowo family, and prayed that God will take Mama into his bosom and also give all those she left behind the strength to carry on without her. The party said the best tribute that could be paid to Awolowo is for the new generation of Nigerian women to emulate her love of family and nation, life of industry, selflessness as well as a strong and abiding faith in God, all attributes that served her well and made her a colossus among men and women. Similarly, Lagos State chapter of the party de-

scribed the death of the matriarch of the Awolowo family, as the closure of a glorious chapter in a progressive family that impacted positively on the lives of many Nigerians. The party said Mama Awolowo lived a fruitful life that will remain indelible not only in the history of the country but on the many lives that were positively impacted through her actions. In a statement in Lagos, signed by the Lagos State Publicity Secretary of the APC, Joe Igbokwe, the party said Mama Awolowo complemented her husband’s progressive ideals to leave remarkable footprints on the Nigerian polity. It described Awolowo as a hallmark of matrimonial and ideological fidelity, which served the nation well as she lived her glori-

ous life to an end. “We are saddened that Mama Awolowo died just as the fruits of progressivism yielded after several decades of reactionary dominance of the country’s politics and the corrosive effects it has had on a country that is richly blessed with both human and natural resources. We see Mama Awolowo as living a fulfilled life because, in her lifetime, progressivism, for which she suffered and was persecuted with her husband, late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, became the dominance ideology of the government in power at the center. “We have no doubt that Mama Awolowo breathed a sigh of relief with the progressive ouster of reactionary politics got which she and her husband suffered greatly to achieve.”

A colossus of her time –APC Ayo Esan

ll Progressives Congress, APC has described Mrs. Hannah Dideolu Awolowo, who passed on to the great beyond on Saturday, as a colossus of her time who will always be remembered for good. In a statement issued in Ikenne on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said Mrs. Awolowo was an ideal wife, a great mother and indeed a jewel of inestimable value, as her husband once fondly described her. ‘’While we understand that death is inevitable, there are times that we secretly wish that our loved and great ones would live forever. “Mama gave us reasons for such a secret wish,

would miss her experience and wisdom needed at all times for national development. The lawmaker representing Ekiti North Senatorial District said in a statement in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, that “one cannot but continue to remember the contributions and support of the late Mrs. Awolowo to her late husband, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, during his struggle for Yorubaland and the Nigeria, as attested to by the late statesman.”

Her demise, a monumental loss –Kwara Speaker

The late HID Awolowo

ormer Vice President and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Atiku Abubakar, has paid tribute to Chief Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, wife of the late political sage, Chief Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo, who died on the ‘eve’ of her 100th birthday billed for November 25. The Turaki Adamawa, who shares birthday with the deceased matriarch of the Awolowo family, said

peaker, Kwara State House of Assembly, Dr. Ahmad Ali, has described the death of Mrs. H.I.D. Awolowo as a monumental loss to the nation. A statement by the Media Special Assistant to the Speaker, Abdulrahman Sanni in Ilorin yesterday said “Mama, as she was fondly called, died at a time the nation undergoing structural change, needed her most.” Ali also described the death as the end of a glorious era, pointing out that she passed on to the great beyond when the

nation would need to tap her wisdom in translating its change mantra into reality to better the lots of the people. He urged the Awolowo family to take solace in that she lived a fruitful life that would continue to be a point of reference for generations yet unborn. The Speaker condoled the Yoruba race, Awolowo family the Nigerian Tribune Newspapers, as well as government and people of Ogun State over the death and prayed God to grant them the fortitude to bear the colossal loss and wished the deceased an eternal rest.

Okowa condoles with Ogun, Awolowo family

elta State governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, has commiserated with the Awolowo family, government and the entire people of Ogun State over the passing on of their matriarch, Hannah Idowu Awolowo, wife of the late premier of Western Nigeria, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Okowa in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu said the late HID would be missed by the people of Ogun State, the Yoruba nation and Nigerians in general. “We take solace in her immense positive contributions to the society, especially her role as a

modest woman who was noted for her unflinching support to her husband’s political career in the first and second republic,” the governor noted. He described the deceased as a woman who exhibited uncommon ability to sustain not only the structure left behind by her late husband, but also added a motherly perspective which has seen prominent politicians in the country turn her place into a Mecca of sorts. While praying God to grant the deceased eternal rest, Okowa enjoined the family and the government of Ogun State to take positive steps to immortalise her legacies.

South West

Monday, September 21 , 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Metropolitan College: Octogenarian, others to protest at Alausa Wale Igbintade

91-year-old woman, Madam Roseline Ololo, has notified the Lagos State Police Command of her intention to picket the office of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, alongside members of a civil society movement over the refusal of government to return Metropolitan College and Isolo Secondary School to her as agreed. Madam Ololo, who with her late husband, Chief Michael Ololo, established the schools through their company, Akaix West Africa Limited, in 1955 with the first batch of 19 students in Surulere area of Lagos, stated this in two separate letters to the governor and the police through her lawyer, Malcolm Omirhobo. According to the letters, copies of which were made available to our correspondent, Omirhobo said he had no choice than to embark on another peaceful protest, starting from September 21, due to failure of the state government to honour its agreement to return the schools. Following expansion purposes, Omirhobo was relocated to the present site at Ire-Akari, Isolo, in 1966 and eventually moved there in 1974. In 1976, via the Education (Private Secondary Institutions Special Provisions) Law, the Military Government of Lagos State took over 48 private secondary schools from their owners, including Metropolitan College. In the process, Isolo Sec-

ondary School was carved out of Metropolitan College on the same expanse of land hosting the college. However, in 2001, the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu repealed the law and returned the said 48 private schools to their owners, but Metropolitan College was curiously not returned, a development that brought about a law suit. Akaix West Africa had contended that the retention of part of the school was against government’s restructuring of the educational system of divesting and allowing the private sector to invest in the educational system so as to provide the conditions in which students can learn to the highest standard and prepare themselves to meet their future needs. Omirhobo had earlier written a letter to former governor Babatunde Fashola urging him as a seasoned and erudite Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, to call for the file, study it and advise the Lagos State Ministry of Education on the need to return the entire school and not part to the owners.

Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode (left) with daughter of deceased, Mrs. Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu, during the governor’s condolence visit to the family of the late Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo at their Ikenne residence in Ogun State, yesterday.

Sallah : Osun provides free train services Boladale Bamigbola OSOGBO

sun State government yesterday said arrangement has been concluded to provide free Sallah train services for its citizens in continuation of its commitment of making life more meaningful for people of the state.

It has therefore asked holiday makers to use the opportunities offered by their homecoming to measure the magnitude of development works going on in the state “as against the campaigns of calumny opponents of the government have embarked on.” A statement by Director, Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Office of the Governor,

Semiu Okanlawon, on Sunday, said the free train services would be offered between Tuesday and Wednesday. The statement said the train would by 11am on Tuesday, 22nd and Wednesday, 23rd of this month convey people from Lagos to Osogbo. According to him, the return journey to Lagos from Osogbo would be on

‘Buhari must probe Nigeria’s nuclear energy programme’ Boladale Bamigbola OSOGBO

taffers of the Centre for Energy Research and Development, Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, have listed reasons for President Muhammadu Buhari to probe funds appropriated for the Centre since Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission, NAEC, took over its super-

vision in 2006. They said the move was necessary if the country wants to keep pace with global trend in nuclear energy programme and fulfill the dreams behind formation of the centre. The centre located at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, was established in 1976 alongside Centre for Energy Research and Train-

ing, CERT, Ahmadu Bello University, ABU, Zaria, to develop the country’s nuclear energy programme for peaceful purposes. At inception, the centre was funded through the Cabinet Office, and was later moved to Energy Commission of Nigeria, ECN, and in 2006, NAEC took over its funding, the period the employees alleged the

centre started having problems. However, speaking during a facility tour of the centre by newsmen, staff of CERD alleged that the establishment was close to achieving the goals it was established for, but for its transfer to NAEC for supervision. The staffers, comprising nine professors and 57 oth-

Senatorial election: AP candidate appeals tribunal ruling Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

enatorial candidate of Accord Party, AP, for Oyo Central district in the March 28 elections, Chief Bisi Ilaka, has appealed the premature closure of his case in the August 14 ruling of Justice J.G. Abundaga National and state House of Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal. Ilaka is challenging

Sunday, 27th by 11am. Okanlawon stressed that the gesture by the Aregbesola-led administration was aimed at facilitating a stress-free homecoming for the people during the festival. He noted that the state government had, since 2011, been making similar arrangements for people of the state to travel home during festive seasons.

results of the election in seven of the 11 local government areas in the district, upon which Hadjia Monsurat Sunmonu, candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, was declared winner. Ilaka in a notice of appeal filed by his counsel, Mr Biodun Abdu-Raheem, is praying the Appeal Court, Ibadan Judicial Division, to set aside the ruling of the tribunal and allow him to conclude his case.

National Mirror learnt that the appeal, which is likely to be heard next week, has five grounds, among which is that the tribunal erroneously applied the principles guiding its powers to suo –motu (voluntarily) close the appellant’s case. The appellant had secured an order of the tribunal to inspect and get certified true copies of the electoral documents used in the election to main-

tain his petition, an order which the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, partially complied with. Dissatisfied, Ilaka’s counsel filed a subpoena dated July 9, which caused the appearance of an officer of INEC who took scanty documents to the tribunal and pleaded for more time to bring the remaining and following which the matter was adjourned.

The non-compliance of INEC with the order of the tribunal on the inspection and counting of ballot papers, according to the appeal notice, warranted the filing and service of contempt charge against INEC. Ilaka, in his petition before the tribunal, is asking that he be declared the winner of the election, having scored the highest number of lawful votes or in the alternative order a rerun.

ers employees, said they were owed several statutory entitlements, including radiation allowance and research grants, adding that in over eight years, there was no capital allocation to CERD, OAU and CERT, ABU. They added that overhead allocation that was almost N6 million per month before takeover of the centre by NAEC in 2006 has since dropped to N900,000, stressing that the supervisory body also retains an average of 76% of the commission’s overhead, leaving it with only 24%. The NAEC is said to have been unilaterally deciding how funds appropriated to the commission are expended, to the point that it has the sole signatory to its account and despite that CERD, OAU and CERT ABU have self accounting status, the commission has not allowed them to have their budget lines.

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South West 9

Monday, September 21 , 2015

FAAN assures of hitch-free traffic during Sallah Olusegun Koiki

ederal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, yesterday said it was ready to ensure hitch-free traffic during the two-day Sallah holidays. The agency assured the travelling public and airline operators that security arrangements had been put in place by management to ensure the holidays were fruitful to all concerned. A statement by FAAN spokesman, Mr. Yakubu Dati, explained that all 22 airports under its control had been firmly secured with operational and security measures, stressing that the holiday period would be without any hitch. He noted that the country’s airports were expected to experience consider-

able upsurge in passenger traffic during the period, adding that apart from the statutory security and safety measures already in place at the airports, sniffer dogs and members of the Bomb Detection Unit of the police have also been deployed in airports to complement the effort of our Aviation Security personnel. “Passenger facilitation at all our airports has also been enhanced by the installation of more modern and bigger conveyor belts and walk-through metal detectors. “The expansion and modernisation of all the airport terminals in the country now provide better ambience and more space for shops and restaurants at the terminals. This also helps passengers relax comfortably while waiting for their flights,” he said.

Ekiti airport project to enhance development –Monarchs Abiodun Nejo ADO EKITI

onarchs in Ekiti State have said the construction of an airport will help hasten its economic development. The monarchs, under the aegis of Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, said the project, which was approved by the Presidency in 2010, must start without further delay. They made this known yesterday through a communiqué in Ado-Ekiti, which was signed by Chairman of the council and the Ologotun of Ogotun-Ekiti, Oba Oladapo Oyebade. The communiqué reads in part: “Council appreciates the new move by Ekiti State governor to pursue this worthy cause to logical conclusion. “Council uses this opportunity to remind the President, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria of an earlier appeal by the good people of Ekiti State at the Ewi’s Palace during his presidential campaign visit to the state on this subject. Council uses this medium to solicit the support of Mr. President for execution and completion of the

project. “We also appeal to Ekiti sons and daughters and well wishers across the globe for their full support. “Now is the time for all good people of Ekiti to support this project for the promotion of the socio-economic emancipation of our beloved state.” The monarchs urged all Ekiti people to support the government to execute the project. The governor had last week held a meeting with stakeholders involved in the project and those present, including renowned lawyer, Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, and former Aviation Minister, Mr. Tunde Omotoba, had approved its execution. They said that at least a standard airstrip should be built in the state to open it up for further economic activities.

Scene of fire outbreak at Mechanic Village, Agidingbi, Lagos, at the weekend.

We’ll rescue Ondo from maladministration –APC BOT member Ojo Oyewamide AKURE

member of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Board of Trustees, Chief Jamiu Ekungba, has said the party was well-positioned to win next year’s gubernatorial election in Ondo State. Ekungba said APC was the only party that could rescue the state from “maladministration” being experienced under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, government. He spoke at the week-

end in Owo, while presenting food items and rams to APC members from all 18 local government areas of the state. The APC chieftain, who stated that the Sunshine state had no reason to be bankrupt, noted that oilproducing states should be financially buoyant. He said people had no option than to look for a party that would restructure and rebuild the state for development to thrive. The APC chieftain, however, urged the party to present a credible can-

didate, who understands economy of the state for the poll. He said: “We are better off in the country under APC than PDP. Consequently, Ondo State indigenes have no option other than to look for a party that will make every citizen rediscover himself and his potential. No other party can offer that except APC. “The chances of APC in next year gubernatorial election in the state are very bright. We thank God that He has made it obvi-

Concrete road cheaper, durable –Dangote

hairman of Dangote Cement, Aliko Dangote, at the weekend restated his plea to the Federal Government to consider the use of concrete roads in the country. He said it would be to the benefit of Nigerians and even the Federal Government to embrace the option of using concrete for roads in the country.

Aside being very cheap, he said concrete roads were more durable and that its maintenance cost is near zero. He said: “We are pushing for Nigeria to do a concrete road. It is cheaper to do a concrete road that would last 50 years than to do a bitumen road. “It will also help eliminate corruption because

if you build a bitumen road, it will have to be adequately maintained unlike a concrete road that is very durable.” It would be recalled that the company has just expanded its frontiers to Asia, by constructing a three million metric tons per annum (mmtpa), Cement Plant in Nepal, as part of its new investment of $4.34bn into 10 African

Aregbesola appoints acting CMD, LAUTECH

sun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has appointed Prof Akeem Olawale Lasisi as acting Chief Medical Director, CMD, for the Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, LAUTECH, Osogbo. A statement by Director,

ous to everybody that the Labour Party turned PDPled government of Ondo State has nowhere to hide again. “Antics and strategies of cajoling our people have become clear to everybody. Nobody can be deceived again in Ondo State. “This state is bankrupt. An oil producing state that cannot pay salary, it is unimaginable. So, we must look for somebody that understands the economy and will be able to turn it around for the people.”

Bureau of Communication and Strategy in the Office of the Governor, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, said the appointment takes immediate effect. A 1990 graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Prof Lasisi, after his mandatory national youth

service, worked at the General Hospital, Ilesa, between 1992 and 1993. He started residency training in Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan, in December 1993 and became a Fellow of the

West African College of Surgeons in Medical College of Nigeria in May 2002. He joined the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Ibadan, as a lecturer in December 2000 and was promoted to senior lecturer in July 2004 and Professor in October 2010.

countries. Currently in 15 African countries, excluding Kenya, Niger and Mali, which are new projects, the company’s current total capacity stands at 48mmtpa, out of which Nigeria alone has the largest chunk of 29.3mmtpa. “We are not only building cement plants in Africa, we have gone far away to Nepal to build a 3 million metric tons cement plant capacity and by the time all these our new projects are completed in the next two years, Dangote Cement will have more than 70 million capacity. “But we are not going to stop there, hopefully, by 2020, our targets is getting to somewhere around 100 million tons capacity.

South East

Obiano warns APGA members against anti-party activities Francis Ekpone Onitsha

nambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, yesterday warned members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in the state to desist from anti-party activities. He also urged them to participate actively in the revalidation exercise with new party cards, duly signed by the new leadership. Governor Obiano, who gave the warning at St. John’s Church, Neni, Anocha Local Government Area of the state, during official inauguration of the new executive of the party in the council area, also described APGA as the identity of the

Igbo nation. Represented by state Chairman, Sir Nobert Obi, Governor Obiano urged the new leaders of the party at both ward and local government levels to remain focused and united and as well as welcome anybody who indicates interest to join the party, explaining that APGA had gone beyond Igbo party. In his remarks, Chairman, Anaocha Local Government Area, Hon. Ikeobi Ejiofor, extolled party members in the area for their doggedness and for fighting gallantly in their various wards during the last general election in the state. Ejiofor said APGA won the election, but regretted that their mandates were stolen.

Group to partner NAFDAC in war against fake drug Francis Ekpone Onitsha

nambra State chapter of Nigerian Association of Patent and Proprietary Medicine Dealers, NAPPMED, has said it will partner National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, in the war against fake and adulterated drugs in the state. Speaking during inauguration of the 3-3/Trans Nkisi unit of NAPPMED, the state’s President General, Comrade Amechi Macpaul

Monday, September 21, 2015

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Police parade 3 kidnap suspects in Ebonyi Aliuna Godwin Abakaliki

bonyi State Police Command, yesterday, announced the arrest of three notorious kidnap suspects, who allegedly kidnapped one Kehinde Baruwa, Afikpo Zonal Manager of Nigerian Breweries Limited, NBL, at gunpoint. Briefing journalists in Abakaliki, Commissioner of Police, Peace Abdallah, said Baruwa was kidnapped at the gate of his house, located off Ndibe Beach road, Afikpo, while the suspects demanded a ransom of N50 million from the wife and later reduced it to N300,000.

They were arrested at the point of collecting the ransom around Afikpo Government Secondary School, through the effort of anti-kidnapping team of the State Police Command. The commissioner noted that the suspects, after their arrest, volunteered useful information that led to the successful rescue of the victim, who was held captive at Ubakala in Umuahia, Abia State. She warned criminals terrorising people of the state to keep off or be ready to face the long arm of the law. She assured people of the state of safety at all times as they go about

their lawful businesses, but urged the public to always cooperate with the police by giving useful and timely information that would aid the police in preventing criminal acts, especially during the ember months. The police also paraded a 32-year-old man, Onwe Chibuzor, who hails from Amofia Ngbo, Ohaukwu Local Government, and Ali Chibuike, 22, from Ezzillo community in Ishielu, for unlawful possession of dangerous and offensive weapons. One Ogbonna Nweke, 22, was also arrested for attempt to commit felony to wit: armed robbery at Ogoja road, by Rice Mill,

Abakaliki. Items recovered from the suspects include one Ak-47 rifle with two magazines, 58 Ak-47 live ammunition, five rounds of K2 live ammunition, 12 rounds of live cartridges, four locally made single barrel guns, one pair of army camouflage boot, six rounds of live Ak-47 ammunition. Also recovered are one locally made pistol, one double barrel locally made pistol, one locally made revolver pistol, 2 live 9mm ammunition and one locally made double barrel pistol with 2 live cartridges that was abandoned along Union Bank roundabout by the hoodlums.

Ozobia, expressed satisfaction that members have become aware of the gravity of dealing in fake and adulterated drugs. He urged the newly inaugurated members to be of good behaviour and avoid the antics of the opposition, which, he said, was led by one Cyprian Odachi, stressing that they are the authentic group recognised by the state government. He urged members to ensure they obtain all necessary requirements and payment for licence to sell.

Lawyer seeks appointment of more judges in Imo

n Owerri-based legal practitioner, Mr. Basil Chukwu, has urged Governor Rochas Okorocha to urgently appoint more judges into the state’s judiciary. Chukwu, an activist, made the call in an interview in Owerri yesterday. He said the state was in dire need of more judges for quick dispensation of justice. According to him, Imo at present has only seven judges, including the Chief Judge, three of whom were serving in Owerri Judicial Division. “On a daily basis, a judge has an average of 30 cases in the course list with over 2,000 others pending in each of the High Courts,” he said. Chukwu blamed the situ-

ation on failure of the governor to appoint new judges since he assumed office in 2011, noting that the situation had adversely affected justice delivery in the state. He also said the failure of the present administration to do that had increased congestion of prisons as well as caused denial of justice to litigants in the state. He further said that with the few number of judges, lawyers in the state were faced with the challenge of meeting the National Judicial Commission, NJC, requirement for appointment as a judge. Reacting, Senior Special Adviser, SSA, to the Governor on Media, Mr Sam Onwuemedo, said there was no judicial division in the state without a judge.

L-R: Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Haruna Karma; Anambra State,Governor Willie Obiano and FRSC Corps Marshal, Boboye Oyeyemi, during the 2015 Ember Months Campaign Flag-off in Onitsha, yesterday.

Emmanuel Ezeh Enugu

outh-East traders have warned the Bureau of Public Enterprises, BPE, against handing over Aba and Ariaria power distribution units to Afrigem Power Company. The traders, who made their position known at the weekend, vowed to close the markets if their demand was not met. Speaking under the aegis of South-East Market Traders’ Amalgamated Associations, SEMATA, they threatened that any move to take the power unit away from the Enugu

Privatisation: South-East traders threaten market shut down Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, would be resisted. President-General of the group, Ichie Okwudili Ezenwankwo, who addressed journalists after an enlarged meeting of the traders in Enugu, said if the alleged plan was allowed to stand, it would cripple businesses in the area. While noting that EEDC had stabilised power supply in the SouthEast zone, Ezenwankwo said: “Geometric Power

Company had always claimed they will provide 24 hours power supply in Aba since 2005. That has not happened and Aba has been suffering until 2013 (November), when EEDC took over. “We all know that things have been improving and we are hopeful it can only get better under the EEDC. “Recently, we read in the papers that the BPE is about to hand over Aba and Ariaria distribution unit to a compa-

ny called Afrigem, which we understand has purchased Geometrics. “We are very concerned that if this happens, our hope for reliable power supply will never be realised. This is why we shall resist such plot with every available effort.” The market leader, who lauded President Muhammadu Buhari’s anticorruption efforts, urged him not to allow a few cabal to cripple South-East economy.

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South South

Monday, September 21, 2015

IYC kicks over probe of NIMASA OSAHON JULIUS YENAGOA

jaw Youth Congress, IYC, has kicked against setting up a probe panel by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, to review all employments and promotions under the Goodluck Jonathan administration. A statement by Ijaw youth body worldwide, said though a review of employment and promotions under an organisation would place it on sound footing in terms of planning and strategy, the decision to probe only the tenure of the Niger Deltaborn Patrick Akpobolakemi as Director-General of the agency was suspicious. They argued that the selective probe was a continuation of victimisation of people of the region by President Muhammadu Buhari’s Federal Government. While rejecting the probe in totality, IYC said

the latest attempt to victimise Niger Delta people by the Federal Government would be resisted. The statement signed by its spokesman, Eric Omare, said motive behind the probe was to sack or unjustly demote employees of NIMASA, who are of Niger Delta origin. Omare said, “The attention of the Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide has been drawn to a statement issued by the Head of Public Relations of the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Mr. Lami Tumaka, to the effect that a committee has been set up to review all employments and promotions made in NIMASA from 2010 till date. “The exercise, according to the statement, is aimed at ascertaining compliance with civil service rules and federal character. The period under review, it would interest the public was the period Niger Delta born Patrick Akpobolakemi

APC primary: Aspirant flays bribing of delegates OSAHON JULIUS YENAGOA

head of next Tuesday’s All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship primary in Bayelsa State, one of the party’s 19 governorship contenders in the election, Imoro Kubor, has frowned at alleged bribing of delegates for votes by contestants. Kubor, who was governorship candidate of Change Advocacy Party in 2012 governorship election in the state, said in an interview in Yenagoa at the weekend, that he did not subscribe to the idea of influencing delegates with money to secure governorship ticket. He said delegates should be allowed to vote for any aspirant of their choice, stressing that paying them money would amount to bribery and corruption and a negation of the APC and President Muhammadu Buhari’s anti-corruption stance. He stated: “I’m one person who will not pay delegates for primary election. Paying delegates amounts

to bribery and corruption. “The delegates can vote for anybody. They should not be influenced by money,” he said. Kubor, an aeronautical engineer and retired Federal Permanent Secretary in the Presidency, therefore, called for a free and fair primary election of the party. He urged the party’s leadership to guard against financial inducement of delegates to the primary election by the governorship aspirants to ensure a credible process. Kubor, who believes he won the 2012 governorship election, said Bayelsans had not enjoyed good governance over the years. He identified high incidence of unemployment, insecurity, massive environmental degradation, low internally generated revenue base, poor network of infrastructure, housing deficit, among others, as some of the problems bedevilling the state. The governorship aspirants however, promised to address the socio-economic challenges of the state headlong if elected into office.

was the Director General of the agency. “For the IYC, this is an obvious attempt and a continuation of the victimisation of Niger Deltans in the affairs of NIMASA. There is no single reason the Federal Ministry of Transport would single out only one agency of the several agencies in the ministry for re-

view of employments and promotions. “If the FMT is sincere and acting in good faith, why are agencies such as the Nigeria Port Authority, Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority and other agencies under the ministry left out of the purported review?

“Or could it be because these agencies were under the leadership of persons from the northern part of Nigeria? The obvious purpose this review exercise is meant to achieve is to sack or unjustly demote employees of NIMASA who are of Niger Delta origin.” He claimed Buhari

and his kinsmen had been doing everything possible to frustrate the take-off of the Maritime University, Okerenkoko, the continuation of the NIMASA Science and Technical College, Okoloba and other NIMASA and federal government programmes beneficial to the Niger Delta people.

The Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom in Delta State, His Royal Majesty Emmanuel Sideso (middle), cutting the tape to unveil Delta Cruz, an energy-efficient car built by students of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Delta State, in readiness for October 2015 Shell Eco-marathon competition in South Africa, at the weekend.

Monarch escapes abduction in Yenagoa OSAHON JULIUS YENAGOA

ecurity challenge in Bayelsa State again reared its ugly head in Yenagoa, the state capital, over the weekend, as the paramount ruler of Ogbogoro community, Yenagoa Local Government, HRH G.G. Igodo, escaped being abducted by six unknown gunmen. However, a teenager, Alex ThankGod, was not so lucky, as he was said to have sustained serious injury as the suspected kidnappers shot him after their failed

attempt to abduct the monarch about 10pm on Saturday. The gunmen were said to had stormed the residence of the monarch, who until recently was Chairman of Bayelsa State Council of Traditional Rulers. But the gunmen could not actualise their mission of seizing their target due to information provided by members of the community to the police, who were said to have quickly responded to the distress call by community members and stormed the place. An eyewitness, who craved anonymity, said

when some policemen arrived, the gunmen abandoned their target and started shooting sporadically to scare residents. He said it was in the process that the 18-year-old boy, ThankGod, was shot and injured before the bandits escaped. Police Public Relations Officer, Bayelsa State Command, Mr. Asinim Butswat, confirmed the incident. Butswat said, “On Saturday, September 19 at about 2200hrs, six unknown gunmen stormed the residence of His Royal Highness G.G Igodo, in Ogbogoro Community, Yenagoa LGA, to

abduct him. “Members of the community alerted the police and patrol teams were deployed in the area promptly. The hoodlums, in a bid to escape, shot and injured one Alex ThankGod, 18-year-old and a member of the community on his hands and stomach. “The victim was taken to the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, and is responding to treatment.” The police spokesman said efforts had been intensified to arrest the hoodlums who escaped with bullet wounds through the waterways.

Seadogs donates to prison inmates, police in C’River RICHARD NDOMA CALABAR

ational Association of Seadogs otherwise known as Pyrates Confraternity, at the weekend donated items worth millions of naira to prison inmates in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State. The items included toiletries like washing detergents, soaps, foodstuff, foot wears, clothing materials,

notebooks and writing pens for the use of prisoners. They also donated bail bonds, suspect statement forms, disinfectants and several items to ease police burden in struggling to cater for arrested suspects and inmates in their custody, particularly in Obudu council. The organisation stated that such donations were one of the ways the association contributes its quota towards enhancing police

work. Zonal President of the association for Cross River North, Benue and Nasarawa states, Anthony Ede, who made the donation on behalf of the association, stated that the items were not a mockery of the two paramilitary organizations. Rather, he noted they were to enhance and facilitate the work of security agencies, and urged their leadership to judiciously use the items to benefit the

inmates and suspects. Ede maintained that Sea Dogs has also assigned its members who are legal practitioners to handle cases of suspects and inmates to ensure that every one of them receive justice. “We are also assigning lawyers within the zone to attend to cases of inmates awaiting trial and assist where necessary at no cost to ensure that those who are innocent are not punished unjustly,” its boss said.

North

Monday, September 21, 2015

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Gombe blast victims receive relief materials Williams Attah, Gombe

ictims of various bomb attacks that claimed the lives of about 100 people in Gombe State during the last Sallah in early August, yesterday received relief materials worth millions of naira from the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA. Other beneficiaries of relief materials were victims of flood and windstorm in the state. NEMA said the presentation was in collaboration with the State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA. According to DirectorGeneral of NEMA, Alhaji Sani Sidi, who spoke through the Head of Operations, Gombe State office, Mallam Saidu Ahmed Minin, the materials were made up of food and nonfood items, including building materials. He explained that areas affected by the flood and windstorm include Dukku Local Government Area and Wuro-Dole village in

Akko, where many people were rendered homeless. He said the Federal Government carried out the assessment alongside SEMA. Sidi said a distribution committee, made up of NEMA/SEMA officials has been set up and expressed optimism that with this arrangement, the relief materials would get to the target groups and reiterated Federal Government’s determination to rescue citizens that have been hit by disaster. Executive Secretary, Gombe State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, Dr. Danlami Arabs Rukujei, applauded the cordial relationship that exists between the two agencies, adding that it had led to excellent accomplishments in favour of the state. He stated that the materials would remain in the custody of NEMA and that beneficiaries have been identified with identification means by which they would collect the items. This is intended to ensure that the process would be carried out with transparency.

Corruption: Buhari should monitor tribunal judges –Zamfara PDP A za Msue, Kaduna

eoples Democratic Party, PDP, Zamfara State chapter, yesterday called on President Muhammadu Buhari to bring the judiciary to scrutiny in the ongoing war against corruption. The party faulted the ruling of Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, which upheld the election of Governor Abdulhazeez Yari, describing it as shocking. In a statement signed by an ex-Officio member, North West zone, Alhaji Faruk Ahmed Gusau, PDP said the decision of the tribunal headed by Justice Grace Onyebo to dismiss its petition in spite of overwhelming evidences was a travesty of justice. The party stressed that the ruling of the tribunal raises a lot of doubts about the quality of justice dispensed. Former Governor Mahmud Aliyu Shinkafi, who lost the April 2015 governorship election in the state and PDP, had challenged the re-election of Governor Yari of the All Progressives Congress, APC, on grounds that he violated provisions of the Electoral Act and that there

was over voting across the state during the election. However, Justice Onyebo in her ruling declared that there were no formidable facts supporting the allegations, maintaining that the governor was duly elected. The judge also ruled that the petitioners did not provide evidence to establish that there was over voting during the election. Gusau said the ruling was shocking to both learned and lay people who followed the proceedings from the beginning to the end. “It was another case of peculiar oversight of glaring facts when the tribunal chose to see no evil in the documents of evidence of over voting recorded in the Zamfara governorship election that purportedly produced Yari,” he added.

Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong (left) with caddies and other golfers arriving for the opening ceremony of a golf tournament to mark the governor’s 100 days in office, in Jos, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Flood kills 53, displaces 100,420 people in 11 states

o fewer than 53 people have died in 11 states following flood disasters that displaced more than 100,420 persons this year. The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that thousands of houses, farmlands and property worth billions of Naira were also lost to the flood disasters in many local government areas affected in the northern states. Affected states include Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Kaduna, Jigawa, Adamawa, Yobe, Gombe and Bauchi. In Kano State, a Director with the State Emergency Relief and Rehabilitation Agency, SERERA, Alhaji Sabi’u Mohammed, said 12 people lost their lives in the disaster. “The deceased died in six local government areas of the state between August and September as a result of the flood. “Six persons died in Shonono, two each in Dala and Tudun Wada and one each in Gabasawa and Takai local government areas,” he said, adding that more than 1, 600 persons were displaced by

the flood, while property worth millions of Naira was destroyed. Mohammed explained that officials from the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, had already visited some of affected areas and assessed the situation. From Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states, NEMA confirmed the death of eleven persons as a result of flooding. Deputy Head, Sokoto Zonal Operations Office of NEMA Mr. Thickman Tanimu, said 10 of the victims died in Zamfara, while a seven-year-old boy died at Kuchi village in Kebbe Local Government

Area of Sokoto State. Tanimu said that more than 86, 710 hectares valued N1.58bn were destroyed in the three states. According to him, a total of 20, 477 homes were also affected, rendering more than 46, 200 people homeless. He said the flood affected eight out of the 14 Local Government Areas in Zamafara, which included Shinkafi, Talata Mafara, Gusau, Anka, Tsafe, Bungudu, Zurmi and Maradun. The official explained that 8, 540 houses and 6,450 hectares of farmland valued at N260m were destroyed in the af-

fected areas in the state. Tanimu further said that 11 out of the 23 Local Governments in Sokoto State were affected by the flood, while two communities in Wurno and Goronyo Local Governments were evacuated. The other Local Governments affected were Rabah, Kware, Binji, Kebbe, Gwadabawa, Wamakko, Bodinga, Sokoto North and Sokoto South. Tanimu added that, 24,750 people and 6, 922 houses were affected, with 42,800 hectares of farmlands worth N750m either totally destroyed or badly affected.

Ubong Ukpong

tions and Information, DOPRI, Air Commodore Dele Alonge, said the hospital, located in the outskirts of Maiduguri, was part of humanitarian activities by NAF to alleviate the suffering of victims of Boko Haram terrorists’ activities in North East through provision of adequate medicare. “By United Nations standard, the 50-bed hospital is a level-2 hospital

comprising accident and emergency suite, out-patient consulting suite, inpatient facilities for at least 36 patients including male, female and pediatric section,” NAF said. It further said the hospital also had an operating theatre, a radio-diagnostic suite, a dental unit, an eye unit, medical laboratory and in/outpatient pharmaceutical sections. The hospital is also equipped with facilities for in-patient catering, health information/records, central sterile supply unit and a maternity section. Alonge said the newly established hospital was in fulfilment of the promise made by the Chief of the Air Staff, CAS, Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar during his first visit to the Dalori IDP camp in August.

NAF hospital in IDP camp begins operation Abuja

igerian Air Force, NAF, yesterday, announced that its hospital, established in Dalori, Borno State, to cater for healthcare needs of Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, has commenced operation. A statement through its Director of Public Rela-

Thousands throng Kaduna village over alleged sighting of Virgin Mary A za Msue, Kaduna

housands of people have been trooping to Nissi village, a suburb of Kaduna metropolis, in Kaduna State, over reported appearance of Holy Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ. Mary was alleged to have appeared three times

to a 16-year-old girl in the village. This prompted many people to embark on pilgrimage to the village for healing and miracle. Our correspondent, who visited the area yesterday to verify the news, observed what looked like the image of Holy Mary on the wall of the girl’s father’s house.

“This is where the image allegedly appeared for the first time to deliver a message to the girl.” Our correspondent gathered that the Virgin Mary descended with two angels, surrounded by white light. Attempt to speak with the girl was not successful as a guard told our correspondent that she could not grant press interview until

the Catholic Archbishop of Kaduna archdiocese visits the place. A resident, James Kantyiok, told correspondent that on the first day of Virgin Mary’s appearance, the whole area was filled with light, accompanied by a thunder-like sound. It was learnt that the Catholic Archbishop may visit the place today.

Monday, September 21, 2015

CCB must extend probes to all political office holders –YCY Ayo Esan

he Yoruba Council of Youths, YCY, an umbrella body and coalition of various youths and students organizations in South-West Geo-political zone of Nigeria and in Diaspora has called on the Code of Conduct Bureau, CCB to review and probe before its tribunal all past and present politically elected or appointed, or any other public servant assets declaration from 1999 till date. He said it is opposed to

the singling out of the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki for probe. It vowed that it will resist all attempts to drag the hallowed seat of the Senate President and Dr. Bukola Saraki into the mud and mucky waters of nepotism, witchhunting and blackmail. Speaking with journalists in Lagos Sunday, the President of the YCY, Aremo Oladotun Hassan said the blackmailing and witch-hunting is predicated on politically motivated power tussle and shenanigans of the internal APC party permutations of

sharing formula of offices amongst its divided tents that formed the party “saying this is the nucleus genesis that caused the current show of naked fire-powers and deadly force of shame”. He said YCY also condemned “the ill-informed ideas and campaign of calumny in some quarters especially by some disgruntled northern youths elements and sponsored agent provocateurs calling for the immediate resignation of Saraki saying section 36(5) of the 1999 constitution state that an accuse

is presumed innocent, until the contrary is proven. Hassan also called on Nigerians to reject and not allow what it described as undue chastisements and forceful removal of the Senate President, saying “if this precedence is allowed to sail through, it will emboldened the orchestras to cause more avokes, and no one will be insulated from this recycled gestapo-styled leadership mannerism, leaving all of us in helpless torture chamber and humiliation, in the prey hands of this political mafias and cabals”.

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Politics

Court reinstates impeached Kuje council Speaker Adeola Tukuru ABUJA

n Abuja High Court of Justice, has reinstated the impeached Speaker of the House of Kuje Area Council, Hon Aisha Yakubu. The Judge, Hon Justice V.B Ashi, who gave the verdict in Abuja, ordered that the defendants whether by themselves, their agents, privies however constituted, are thereby further restrained from the plaintiff to handover government properties in her possession. According to him, “The oral application for withdrawal of the claim against the 3rd defendant is hereby granted, substantive suit is fixed for hearing on September 24, 2015”. A suit was earlier filed with no: FCT/HC/ CV/2609/2015 and motion no: M/ 9516 / 2015 between Aisha Yakubu as the plaintiff and the chairman of Kuje Area Council, Shaban Tete, the secretary of the council, the Acting Speaker and the clerk of the

House as defendants. Recall that the council impeached the Speaker of the House, Mrs Aisha Yakubu, in a manner many say was unjust. Some youths of the council, who staged a protest on poor infrastructural development of the area barricaded the entrance of the council secretariat, displaying placards with inscriptions “Return our speaker; Kuje is dirty; we need good roads.” Mr Emanuel Kurei, leader of the group, said that the removal of the area council officials by the chairman, Mr Shaban Tete, was not in the best interest of the people. On her part, the impeached Speaker, Aisha Yakubu, said that the chairman had on several occasions tried to remove her by instigating the councillors to vote her out. Reacting, chairman of the council, Tete, said that the impeachment of the Speaker was purely a legislative affair, saying he had no comments on the matter.

Emerhor mourns Olu of Warri, hails Emiko’s choice as designate

Participants during the International Day of Democracy in Lagos, recently.

Gombe NASS member lauds court ruling Williams Attah GOMBE

andidate of the All Progressive Congress, APC, for Gombe- Kwami-Funakaye federal constituency in the 2015 general elections, Alhaji Yaya Bauchi Tungo has described the recent

Adeola Tukuru ABUJA

he People’s Democratic Party, PDP, National Youth Restoration Vanguard, NYRV, has thrown its weight behind the candidacy of the incumbent Bayelsa State governor, Seriake

judgment delivered by the Appeal Court in Abuja in his favour against his fellow party member as victory for the rule of law and justice to all. Tungo had contested and won the election against the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and other candidates during the 2015

general elections but was denied certificate of return based on a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja. Ahmed Khamisu Mailantarki, also of the APC had contested and failed the APC primary election but because Tungo who won the election defected from the PDP

to the APC while still a member of the Gombe State House of Assembly, certificate of return was awarded to Mailantarki The case was taken to court and the court verdict last Friday declared Tungo as legitimate member to represent the constituency.

PDP youth group backs Dickson

Dickson in the forthcoming governorship election in the state saying that he represents the only hope for the party’s rebirth and return to national dominance. The group said its support for Dickson was on the

grounds that he is the best performing governor in Nigeria whom the party is happy to have in its fold. In a press statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, the Vanguard’s National Coordinator, Abubakar

Ibrahim Babangida said the group was able to verify the extent of Dickson’s positive impact as a performing governor after a tour of Bayelsa State where people of the state both young and old, women and children all

he All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship candidate in the 2015 elections and vice chairman, Standard Alliance Group, Olorogun Otega Emerhor has said that he received with rude shock the news of the demise of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II. The APC chieftain in a condolence message by his director of media and political communication, Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe said the late Atuwatse was a forthright first class monarch who expressed satisfaction with the developmental projects of his administration. The statement reads: “Bayelsa under Dickson is one of the few states where the fallen crude oil prices and naira devaluation has not totally crippled economic activities and put lives on hold.

ruled his people and the entire Iwereland with the fear of God and divine wisdom. Emerhor recalled his brief but exciting interaction with the late monarch when he visited his royal palace during consultations prelude to the April 11, 2015 elections, describing it as one of the most inspiring moments of his life. He said: “Delta APC Family is pained by the exit of our dear first class monarch, Ogiame Atuwatse lI, the Olu of Warri.” Emerhor also applauded the confirmation of Abiloye Emiko as Olu designate, pointing out that with the choice and subsequent coronation of the new monarch, Itsekiri nation will experience accelerated development as well as occupy greater positions of prominence in Nigeria and all over the world.

Politics

Obiora Ifoh ABUJA

he All Progressive Congress, APC, deputy national publicity secretary, Comrade Timi Frank, on Sunday, described those calling on the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, to resign as ignorant and myopic. Frank in a statement in Abuja, said those who purportedly gave Saraki such an ultimatum to vacate his office on the basis of unproven allegations, are suffering from acute kwashiorkor in terms of knowledge. According to him, a quick check has shown that there is no such youth group named: “Northern Ethnic Nationalities Unity Congress, NENUC, “therefore they cannot purportedly speak on behalf of

Monday, September 21, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Calls for Saraki’s resignation unnecessary –APC Spokesperson

Northern youths as “you cannot put something on nothing.” He further stated that the organisation is not known to law and the people of the region it claims to represent, adding that the supposed convener, Bako Benjamin, remains a shadowy figure who was apparently paid to take a shot at a great man. He said: “At best, NENUC is an impostor organization hurriedly packaged to do a dirty job the behest of Saraki’s traducers, with the sole aim of assailing his towering image. “Where were they when Saraki was governor?

Where were they when he was chairman of the Nigeria Governor’s Forum, NGF? Where were they when he blew the whistle on the fuel subsidy scam in the 7th Senate? Where were they when he contested and was elected Senate President? “Let failed politicians not seek to make political capital from this set up against Saraki called asset declaration trial. Their claim to have mobilised Nigerians to protest, should Saraki not heed their call to resign in three days, shows their level of desperation to deliver on the smear contract they have been awarded.

“Their ignorance of the law, that a man is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction, is also most profound. Is the judiciary no longer the last hope of the people? Saraki had faulted the charges against him as being politically motivated. He had also gone to the Federal High Court to seek redress. “But those who are eager to get him out will do everything to stop the wheel of justice in this case, hence the warrant of arrest issued by the Code of Conduct Tribunal and the spurious calls for his resignation.

“Why the hurry to try Saraki, when it is apparent that the Chairman of CCT, Danlandi Umar, himself swimming in a pool of corruption allegations, would rather disobey the orders of a superior court of record that ordered that all parties to the case should appear before it,” he stated. Frank further accused the ‘impostor group’ of attempting to infringe on Saraki’s inalienable rights to fair hearing by purportedly giving him ultimatum to resign before the cases are heard and disposed off. He added: “The position of NENUC, even though

does not represent the views of the people of North, are reminiscent of our dark past for which we pray never to return or experience in the annals of this country. “Let this amorphous association and its backers know that we are in a democracy and not under a dictatorship as they would have wished.” He called Nigerians to disregard all calls for the Senate President to resign before the cases against him are determined by the courts as anything to the contrary will be a grave injustice on the person of Saraki and also a rape on our democracy.

Wada’s emergence victory for PDP –Ex chairmen Wale Ibrahim LOKOJA

L-R: Panelist, Chief Olumuyiwa Ogunleye; Chairman, All Progressives Congress, APC, USA chapter, Chief Tony Isama; Guest Lecturer/APC Deputy National Chairman North, Senator Lawal Shuaib and Women Leader, Mrs. Felicity Mbanefo, during the APCUSA 1st National Convention Lecture in New York, on Saturday.

Lagos West senatorial election: I will appeal –Adewale Patience Ogbo

agos West senatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Segun Adewale, in a press statement at the weekend, described last Friday’s judgment dismissing his petition against All Progressives Congress, APC’s Solomon Adeola as disappointing, saying he will contest the judgement in Appeal Court. According to the tribunal led by Justice Sylvester Oriji, Adewale failed to prove his allegation of electoral fraud. Oriji said: “The petitioner had failed to discharge the evidence of proof of corrupt practices

•My victory an act of God –Adeola or non compliance with the provision of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended. This petition is hereby dismissed.” But reacting to the judgment, Adewale said: “The tribunal ruled against our case on technical ground of not having enough witnesses to support our evidences. This is not how we hoped things would turn out but I have a strong belief in the judicial process, and that is why we will never resort to violence. “It is sad that the judiciary has been bastardised and has become cash and carry. I won in seven local government areas while Adeola won in three local

government areas. The CCT copy from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, showing this result was presented to the tribunal, but instead of looking at it, it resorted to technicalities. This is not fair. It shows that the constitution and the election tribunal favour the defendant than the petitioner. “Mr. Adeola scores 249,000 votes and it was inflated to 429,000 votes. We took the CCT copy from INEC to the tribunal as a proof and that the tribunal should deduct the number they added, but it is sad that they resorted to technicalities. I will not

relent. I will head to the Appeal Court to regain my mandate.” Meanwhile, Senator Adeola, while reacting to the judgment at a press briefing in his campaign office in Lagos at the weekend, hailed the ruling by a tribunal in Lagos upholding his election. Saying he was grateful to the people of his constituency for standing by him, the lawmaker said: “A court of competent jurisdiction has upheld my election after examining all the documents brought before it. Now that the tribunal is over, it is time to get to work. I promise to work to uplift my constituency.”

ormer chairmen elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Kogi State have described as signifying victory, the emergence of Captain Idris Wada as the standard bearer of the PDP in the November 21governorship election in the state. This was contained in a statement signed by the former chairman, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, Aloysius Okino, saying that the overwhelming votes Wada got during the election was an indication of his popularity and the support he enjoys from vast majority of mem-

bers of PDP who share his vision for Kogi State. The group congratulated the party’s National working Committee, NWC, for a job well done in conducting what it described as transparent, free, fair, credible and a well organised primary, which it said confirmed the leadership position of PDP in the Nigerian polity. Affirming their resolve to work very hard for the victory of Wada and indeed that of the party in the governorship election, they group called on the members of the party at all levels to embrace and rally round the governor and leader of the party, so as to deliver a resounding victory for the party.

Adeleke denies nursing 2018 guber ambition Boladale Bamigbola OSOGBO

he senator representing Osun West in the Senate, Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, yesterday, doused the insinuations lately making round that he is interested in succeeding the incumbent governor in 2018, saying that he is facing his senatorial duties and not thinking about 2018 governorship contest in the state. The lawmaker, who spoke through his media

aide, Olumide Lawal in a statement made available to newsmen in Osogbo at the weekend, said 2018 was “still a very long period to start thinking of any political ambition.” The statement reads: “Senator Adeleke, contrary to the speculations making the rounds in a section of the media, to the effect that he has his eyes on Osun governorship seat come 2018, is very focused to make a great success of his current membership of the National Assembly in the 8th Senate.

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Monday, September 21, 2015

Dora Akunyili’s legend: Tribute to an Amazon PETER OBI

everal decades ago, Golda Meir, a founding mother of the State of Israel and its fourth Prime Minister, declared that “to be successful, a woman has to be better at her job than a man”. This is one of the attributes that Professor Dora Nkem Akunyili (OFR) consistently portrayed in her life-time. Observing the first memorial of her death, it is instructive to ponder this Amazon, who reflected what the Germans would tag “the spirit of the time”, a reminder of what we need to do in any given period, particularly when facing challenges as a nation. All through human history, women have been critical to the development of societies. They are not only the bastions of the home front, they also have played active roles in the polity, economy and the wider society, now and then as prime movers. In the Nigerian experience, there are the likes of Margaret Ekpo, Gambo Sawaba [of the NEPU fame], Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, the women against illegal taxation in Aba. Over the years, I followed Big Aunty Dora’s rising profile with much admiration and respect; and we interacted on a range of issues affecting our dear Anambra State and Nigeria at large, which ended with positive outcomes. Although she was born into a comfortable family, she spent part of her early years in harsh conditions. For a period, she lived with her grandmother and uncle

in the village, going through the mill of a range of chores; trekking long distances to fetch water and firewood, to the farm and to attend school. She also excelled in her academic work, which subsequently became a family tradition. Five of her children obtained their first degrees with 1st Class, even as three of them are medical doctors like their father, Dr. Chike Akunyili. In all the places she worked, Dora displayed high principles – the hallmarks of successful public service. At the UNTH, UNN, Hospitals Management Board, Better Life Programme, Local Government Service and PTF, she maintained her record of excellence in several ramifications. Dora’s appointment as Director-General of NAFDAC by former President Olusegun Obasanjo was clearly on the highest recommendations and testimony to her integrity, competence and verve. Having set the tone for high regulatory standards in the sector, her unrelenting war against the merchants of death and economic saboteurs became a national ethos that attracted tremendous international goodwill for Nigeria. She, her family, staff and the Agency’s facilities were at great risk all through her tenure; even as she escaped assassin’s bullets by God’s grace. Years after she left the Agency, buyers of packaged drugs and regulated foods would instinctively inquire: “Does it have NAFDAC number?” and “Where is the NAFDAC number?” Or, should we talk about ‘Pharmaco-Vigilance’ platforms that en-

THIS UNAMBIGUOUSLY DIGNIFIED WOMAN RECEIVED ACCLAIM FROM DISCERNING PEOPLE AND GRUDGING RESPECT FROM HER DETRACTORS able members of the public confirm the integrity of drugs they want to purchase? Dora’s appointment as Minister of Information and Communications was not just for the status and cameras. She brought to bear on her new posting the intense passion she exhibited elsewhere - actively promoting the goodness and greatness of the country and its people. How many Nigerians would forget the novel pay-off: “Nigeria! Good People, Great Nation!”? It was inspired ambition that made Dora resign her appointment as a minister to fulfill other goals in the service of her fatherland. Though unsuccessful in her bid to be a Senator, she redirected her boundless energy to community service and philanthropy. With Federal Government’s decision to hold a National Conference, Dora was a natural choice as one of the three delegates from Anambra State. Her last address, even in ill-health, to the Conference is revealing, which in conclusion quoted a Chinese adage that “a society grows when old men plant trees, whose

shade they know they shall never sit in”. Dora was a woman of Vision, Mission and Clear Purpose. Her integrity shone like a million stars across the land. At the PTF [under the then General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd)], she returned a whopping sum of some 12,000 pounds sterling of her unutilized medical funds to the Treasury; rather than “retire” the monies approved for her trip. At NAFDAC, she remained uncompromised; rejecting several offers of inducements by the merchants of death, and getting them arrested and prosecuted. This unambiguously dignified woman received acclaim from discerning people and grudging respect from her detractors. The honours accorded her were not for sale, and the samplers are enlightening Nigerian Woman of Distinction [50th Independence anniversary]; Integrity Award [Transparency International]; Amazon of Integrity [National Council of Women’s Societies], One of 18 Heroes (Health) of Our Time [TIME magazine], One of four Top World-Class Women Achievers [Italian Government], Pharmacist of the Year 2005 [International Pharmaceutical Federation], among others. Dora went beyond the call of duty. We do not owe her encomiums as much as we need to sustain her legacies. May Almighty God continue to bless the soul of this remarkable woman! Excerpts from the lecture delivered by Mr. Peter Obi, CON at the Nike Lake Hotel, Enugu during the one-year memorial anniversary of the death of Prof. Dora Akunyili

How young are you? SANDRA AKUOMA

here are seven categories of aging. With age as such a crucial feature of a person’s identity, we are at loss as to who the person is, if we lack such information. Yet, age as society perceives it, is not a very good indication of knowing a lot about a person. Think of the older-than-her-years hyper mature 15-year-old who could easily pass for 22. How about the older adult who lives down the street from you whose sprightly step would rival that of someone 40 years her junior? It’s time to throw aside this narrow and imprecise measure of your identity and move on to the next step, which is to calculate your true age. As it turns out, your true age will not be a simple number, but a combination of where you stand along seven dimensions. In a nutshell, age is multidimensional. So what are the seven categories of age? First is chronological age, which is defined as the number of years a person has lived. This is the one we’re all very familiar with. So the big question is how old are you? And you will answer; I am so many years, months, and days old. Because of the ease and familiarity everyone has with chronological age, many tests and programmes are based around it. Most 5-year olds are ready for kinder-

AGE,

AS SOCIETY

P E RC E I V E S I T , I S

N O T A V E RY G O O D I N D I C AT I O N O F K N OW I N G A L O T ABOUT A PERSON garten; most 16-year olds have matured enough to drive; and many 65-year olds are ready to retire. Chronological age is just a rough indication of age; it’s just the most convenient way. Biological or physical age, which is a description of an individual’s development based on biomarkers, a recordable molecular or cellular event like blood pressure, respiratory capacity, aerobic power, blood glucose levels, etc. Here we’re looking at the individuals as they are, not necessarily when they were born. Physical aging can be described by grey hair, wrinkled skin, fragile body, hazy eyes. It is age of our bodies in regards to critical life signs. Psychological age, which is the perception of how old one feels. This is about ones mental outlook on life. For example, a person who is older may feel younger and vice versa. Psychological age is thus not necessarily equal to chronological age. A person can, therefore, have a psychological age that exceeds their chronological age if they

are mature or at least feel older than they really are. This may be common in adolescence when young teens that feel older than they really are engaged in behaviours typical of late teens and early adults. Emotional age is about how we adjust to circumstances that cause us to be rational or irrational. How we handle conflict and resolve misunderstandings are markers for our emotional maturity. Emotional age may follow chronological age, or may lag behind, or be ahead. Intellectual age is how we think critically about ourselves and the world around us. Are we open or closed minded? The ability to reason and think critically can benefit our life experiences. Staying updated, flexible and curious about life can help to develop a youthful level of intelligence. Social age: This reflects your position along the so-called “social clock” of life. The social clock is based on the set of expectations that people in a given culture have about when life’s major events “should” occur. We can divide the social clock into the two major areas of life: family and work. The family social clock of our culture expects that people become parents at some point in their late 20s or early 30s, at which point they also are married or in a serious relationship. We become grandparents, according to this clock, in our 60s, reflecting the fact that our children are

following a similar social clock. The work social clock says that we graduate from secondary school in our late teens, and then from university a few years later, at which point we start our career. We retire in our 60s, and at that point the work social clock stops ticking. Functional age: It is defined as a combination of chronological, biological, social, intellectual and psychological ages. Here, instead of focusing on one aspect at a time, we are summarizing them to create a more holistic picture of a person. Functional age would give you the clearest understanding of a person. This type of age is not often used because you will need a lot of expert input to give the clearest understanding of how old the person is. Food for thought How old do you feel? Forget what the calendar says, and even forget what your functional ages are. Ms Akuoma wrote from Lagos via sanlifepointers@hotmail.com and can be reached on 08165583876 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

Monday, September 21, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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

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

Again, fratricidal killings on the Plateau

eports about the middle of last week said between 18 and 19 persons lost their lives, while scores of others were fatally injured in Kadunung village, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, when unidentified gunmen overran the community. The attackers also torched about 150 houses, according to reports. The Chairman, Management Committee of Mangu LGA, Titus Bise, confirmed the incident, saying: “After the attack, I was part of the rescue team that evacuated the victims and so far, we have recovered 11 bodies of (the) people burnt in their houses”. The latest violence represents only but one of such fratricidal killings so numerous to catalogue here, especially since the nation returned to democratic rule in 1999. We recall that not quite long ago, suspected Fulani herdsmen in the state also killed 30 people in the four villages of Vat, Pandadi, Zakukpang and Dorong. The attackers reportedly entered the villages through Jos East LGA. Security agencies led by the Special Task Force on Jos Crisis were said to have woefully failed to protect life and property in the affected areas. Remember also that in July 2012, a senator from Plateau State, Gyang Dantong; and the Majority Leader of

the State House of Assembly, Mr. Gyang Fulani; were killed while honouring the mass burial of about 50 victims of attack on villages in Barkin Ladi and Riyom LGAs of the state. The killing came shortly after the discovery of the remains of over 50 persons, mostly women and children, burnt inside the residence of a local pastor where they took refuge following an earlier attack on about 14 villages by suspected Fulani herdsmen. Dantong and Fulani were shot dead at Maseh village in Riyom LGA while the over 50 victims were being interned. For so many years running, such tragedies had struck not only Plateau State. The nation had witnessed them in Taraba, Ebonyi, Osun and Akwa-Ibom States or elsewhere, though traced to different roots. But it would seem the case of Plateau State has become a sore point more malignant and worsening than others. The alleged complicity and cavalier attitude of the nation’s security agencies and their leadership in the management of the crisis are also not helping matters, as they have eroded the confidence of communities in the areas in the nation’s security apparatus, particularly those of them at the receiving end. Victim communities have

THE ROOT CAUSE OF VIOLENCE IS OFTEN GLOSSED OVER; IN

SPITE OF THE SETTING UP OF NUMEROUS INVESTIGATION PANELS

more or less lost interest in the capacity of the security agencies to protect life and property or facilitate the apprehension, diligent investigation and prosecution of the purveyors of the evil. Indeed, the root cause of violence is often glossed over; in spite of the setting up of numerous investigation panels that come up with copious recommendations in their reports; what follows is the escalation of the crisis. It seems the Federal Government and even its Plateau State counterpart are now in a quandary on how best to resolve the fratricidal hostilities in Plateau State, believed to be strictly a conflict between Plateau ‘indigenous’ communities and their Hausa/ Fulani ‘settler’ brothers. The study carried out by Adam Higazi, a Research Fellow in African Studies, King’s College, Cambridge & Centre of African Studies, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom, on the Jos crisis can assist the Nigerian government in its

ON THIS DAY September 21, 1939 Romanian Prime Minister, Armand Calinescu, was assassinated by ultranationalist members of the Iron Guard. The Iron Guard is the name most commonly given to a far-right movement and political party in Romania from 1927 to the early part of World War II. Calinescu (1893 – 1939) was a Romanian economist and politician who served as Prime Minister between March 1939 and the time of his death.

Letters tothe theEditor Editor Letters to

September 21, 1981 Sandra Day O’Connor was unanimously approved by the United States Senate as the first female Supreme Court justice. O’Connor (bor n March 26, 1930) is a retired US Supreme Court justice. She served as an Associate Justice from her appointment in 1981 by Ronald Reagan until her retirement from the Court in 2006. She was the first woman to be appointed to the court.

search for solution to the predicament. Higazi says Plateau State is currently the main site of ethnic and religious violence in northern Nigeria; and that the dominant discourses dogging the conflicts revolve around political exclusion on the basis of ethnicity and religion, on the Muslim Hausa/Fulani side; and fears of religious and cultural domination among Plateau Christians/ indigenes. The relationship between the Plateau State Government and different divides of the state’s citizenry is likewise a key issue to be reconciled. The struggle for land is also involved, especially in relation to the ‘fadama’ or dry-season farming areas where some of the valuable farms previously owned by Hausa and Fulani farmers were taken over by Berom farmers during the 2001 crisis. Also recommended is greater political discussion and cooperation between Hausa/Fulani and Plateau indigenous political leaders. In addition, Plateau State is said to be awash with guns and sophisticated weapons, with little or no official control. We believe that if these issues are sincerely addressed, and the people found culpable for unprovoked killings, arson and destruction are severely dealt with in accordance with the law, Plateau State may witness peace once again.

x September 21, 2013 Al-Shabaab Islamic militants, apparently based on the earlier reprisal warnings it issued in the wake of ‘Operation Linda Nchi’ from 2011 to 2012, attacked the Westgate shopping mall in Nairobi, Kenya, killing at least 67 people. Over 175 others were wounded in the mass shooting. Kenyan authorities arrested dozens of people in the aftermath of the attack, but did not announce any suspect directly involved.

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Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Cover

Job scam:

Fraudsters upscale antics, as victims recount pains, losses Cashing in on the alarming rate of unemployment in the country and seeming helplessness of governments to tackle the menace headlong, job scammers are swelling their ranks and upscaling their antics to dupe unsuspecting job seekers even in their predicaments. In this report, Adejuwon Osunnuyi examines how desperate applicants are daily being conned into parting away with their money, usually sourced from guardians, parents or friends to keep their hope for better future alive.

Waiting for army recruitment

ary Adeosun (not real names,) a Biochemistry graduate, has been out of job for nearly seven years since she graduated from the university. She had applied to many organisations without getting any response from them. That might be probably because she hasn’t got any of the long years of working experience they have always required. While her efforts in getting a plum job had not been fruitful, to keep body and soul together, she had resorted into making beads for sale. However, last month, her job knew no bound when she re-

ceived a text message on her phone informing her of an invite to a job interview. “You are invited to honour a chat with our Business Development Executives at 16, Akinremi str, Anifowose, Ikeja on Friday 11\8\15 by 10.00 a.m. HR: Favour 08089582847. However, having another thought, Mary felt the SMS might have been sent to her wrongly since she couldn’t remember applying for any job lately. She immediately put a call through to the number in the SMS. To her surprise, the man that picked the call at the other end told her the SMS was meant for her. She immediately told herself that that the

opportunity would not slip off her hands. Pronto, on the day of the interview, she got to the venue very early having prepared adequately for the ‘golden opportunity’. According to her, she was surprised to see over 200 other applicants who had also come for the interview. However, to her shock, after writing the test, they were all told to pay N10,000 ‘processing fees’ or forget about getting any job. While they were assured they would start getting their employment letter the following week, being desperate to get the jobs, Mary told Business Courage that they all paid

the money. But sadly, over a month now, Mary is still waiting for her ‘employment letter’. Obviously, in recent time, cashing in on the alarming rate of unemployment in the country, there have been many Nigerians who are daily becoming victims of job scammers as they offer unsuspecting applicants more and more fictitious jobs that hardly exist. Experts believe the scammers, in fleecing UDO ONYEKA, CO-ORDINATOR BUSINESS COURAGE udonyeka@gmail.com c

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National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Solomon Arase, Inspector General of Police

Martins Abeshi, CG of imigration

their victims, feed largely on their helplessness and desperation in getting jobs. “The desperation for jobs, economy of the country, societal status breakdown etc. means your guard may be down, and you are more likely to let a scammer get the best of you”, argues a concerned analyst. Another expert who prefer to remain anonymous noted, “In Nigeria, the situation is becoming alarming everyday because rate of unemployment has been on the increase. About 70 per cent of the 80 million youths in Nigeria are either unemployed or underemployed. We are all witness to what happened recently during the immigration recruitment exercise and this is simply because 80 per cent of the Nigerian youth are unemployed.” The situation, it has been observed, appears even more worrisome when government job of-

Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

fers become the easy baits used by the scammers to hook the gullible desperate job seekers. From domestic servants (unskilled workers) to white collars (skilled workers) the situation is dicey. Conmen have infiltrated both public and private sectors just to rip off the innocent and anxious young Nigerian job seekers. On daily basis, adverts for job opportunities in government agencies are placed most especially on social media network while at times, SMS sent to victims as the scammers inform them that they were on referral. Recently, the police arrested and charged two Sharia Court workers to court for allegedly forging Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps official letterhead papers, which they used to defraud desperate job seekers. The suspects, Ibrahim Usman and Shuai-

bu Yinusa, who worked with the Sharia Court in Gwagwalada, Abuja, had realised N6 million from the many applicants they scammed. The suspects, who were paraded in Abuja on Friday, were arrested at Gwagwalada with forged appointment letters and other fake NSCDC documents. One of the suspects, Usman told journalists that he had made about N6 million from the scam, adding that he extorted various amounts of money from applicants. He said, “I collected various amounts from different people, some paid N20,000, some N50,000. I told interested people in my village that there is a job opportunity and many of them brought money to me.” In another development, the Nigerian Police Force also smashed a fake recruitment syndicate known as Universal Re-

sponse and Rescue Support Foundation (URRSF) purported to belong to the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (UN). The organization, which has an illegal training camp in Lagos, with branches in Ekiti, Cross River and Imo states, as well as Abuja, and claims to be in charge of recruitment for the UN, had hoodwinked many Nigerians into parting with their money, the Nigerian Police said. With the website being used by the syndicate is highlighted to be http://www.universalrescuecorps.com/, the police said at least N7 million has been extorted from victims. Those arrested by the police and charged for criminal conspiracy, impersonation, cheating and forgery included 35-year old Lemmy Odogwu, Michael Abraham 45 years and Innocent Prosper , 35 years. “Items recovered from the suspects include: 181 copies of unfilled recruitment forms with UN logo, 20 photograph copies of URRSF members in paramilitary uniforms, a booklet containing lists of recruitment and phone numbers of intending members of URRSF, one Toyota Sequenda Jeep with registration number BGT 151 AA and other incriminating items” the police added. Also, another fraudster, James Odey, was arrested for issuing fake employment letters of government agencies. The Federal Capital Territory, FCT Police Command, which smashed the fake employment syndicate, said Odey had allegedly issued over 400 fake Nigerian Prison Service letters of appointment to unsuspecting job seekers, after duping them of large sums of money. According to the Prisons Service Public Relations Officer (PSPRO), Francis Enobore, the lid on Odey’s fake ‘employment agency’ was blown when over 40 victims stormed the National Headquarters of the Service in Abuja, brandishing letters of appointments for documentation, having been made to part with between N100,000 and N500,000 before they were issued the fake letters. The service then began investigating the acclaimed appointment letters and soon realized that the victims were duped by the suspect and his

syndicate who posed as members of ‘Replacement Board’ of the NPS. “The appointment letters prompted an investigation from the Intelligence Unit of the Service which led to the arrest of Odeh at his hideout. The public is hereby advised to beware of fraudsters on the prowl, who take undue advantage of the congested labour market to inflict further pains on unsuspecting job seekers.” Enobore stated. Recently, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) warned applicants seeking employment into the service to disregard moneyfor-job offers by individuals, saying they are scams. According to the NIS, many criminal elements were currently using fake websites and social media accounts to defraud unsuspecting members of the public seeking enlistment into the NIS. “The fraudsters use the fake sites to pose as the comptroller-general and the public relations officer (PRO) of the service, to offer job placements to unsuspecting members of the public.” A statement from the NIS said. The statement urged members of the public to always visit the www.fedcivilservice.gov.ng, which is the website address for the recruitment and www. immigration.gov.ng, the official website of the NIS, for any information. Apparently, a job scam occurs when a scammer poses as an employer or recruiter, and offers attractive employment opportunities which require that the job seeker pay money in advance. Once the money has been paid over, the scammer disappears, and the job seeker is left with no job, and out of pocket. Whatever the scammer’s technique is and how they go about their modus operandi, their goal is always the same. To separate you from your cash, or to obtain your confidential personal information, that can be used in identity theft. The problem is, that scammers are becoming more and more crafty in the way they operate, and it’s becoming more and more difficult to know what is a scam and what is a legitimate job opening. So how do you recognize a job scam, and what signs should you look out for? For instance, never part with your money. The golden rule is, any job offer

A3 19

that requires that you pay a fee in advance, is probably a scam. Most reputable companies will absorb these costs themselves. Another warning sign, is if the recruiter offers to train you for the job, in return for money. NEVER pay money across ever. No legitimate company or recruiter will ask for money upfront. Not for anything. Do some research on the company. Visit the company’s website. If they do not have one, or it does not have contact details, then you need to tread cautiously. If there is a company website, compare the contact numbers, email addresses etc., to what would appear when doing a Google on the company or in a company directory. Free email accounts. Any recruiter or company that corresponds from a free email account such as Yahoo, Live, Hotmail or Gmail is very likely a scammer. Legitimate job related emails would come from corporate email accounts. Do a Google search on the company. Do a search on the company name and see what information you can find. Compare it to the information that you have been sent. Offers without interviews. Always remember that reputable companies are not going to offer you a role without interviewing your first. Flattering as it may seem that they were so impressed with your resume, that they have offered you a position without meeting you first, the reality is, that you are probably being scammed if this happens. Never, ever accept a job offer that has come through via email, when you have never had a telephonic or face-to-face interview. Work from home. If this appears in the job title, the chances are very real that it is a scam. The chances of making money in your pajamas may sound enticing, and the idea of making a lot of money whilst being able to work from home is just too good to pass for many gullible job seekers, and because of this, it is a favorite with scammers. Unsuspecting job seekers have been falling for this type of scam for years now. Receiving offers for jobs you did not apply for. If you receive an offer in your inbox for a job that you have not even applied for, and it sounds too good to be true, then it is too good to be true. BC

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Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News Truckers suspend strike, seek 30-day extension of restriction deadline

operations. The statement also stated that the composition of NEITI’s board should be made up of experienced professionals with track record of competence and integrity. The statement rejected the tendency to fill the board with politicians with little or no interest on the mission and vision of the global Extractive Industry Transparency Initiatives, EITI. It stated that the Executive Secretary of NEITI, Mrs Zainab Ahmed, underlined the need for the agency to be given more powers and adequate resources.

Francis Ezem

aulage companies operating at the nation’s seaports at the weekend suspended the 10-day strike action they embarked upon to prostest the restriction order imposed on them by the Lagos State Government. The government had in response to the truck accident in the Ojuelegba area of the state, which claimed three lives, pennultimate week restricted the movement of the trucks to between 9pm and 6am daily. The decision of the truckers to suspend the srike action, which would have led to a massive cargo congestion, was sequel to a peace meeting convened by the Nigerian Ports Authority NPA. for one month suspended the over one week strike embarked upon over the restriction order given to them by the Lagos state government on movement of trucks to nighttime. In attendance at the meeting were representatives of the Association of Maritime Truck Owners AMATO, Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria RTEAN, National Association of Road Transport Owners NARTO, Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents ANLCA, National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders NAGAFF and terminal operators. General Manager, Public Affairs department of NPA, Captain Iheanacho Ebubeogu, who spoke shortly after the meeting, disclosed that the truckers have decided to suspend the strike. He also said that the truckers are ready to abide by the restriction order imposed on them by the state government. He however said that the truck operators have pleaded with the government to grant a one-month extension before enforcement of the night restriction directive. “The outcome of the meeting is that truck owners have agreed to suspend the strike but they however made us realise that there are operational challenges, which they would want to resolve within one month after which the directive would take effect”, he said It was also gathered that the management of NPA would brief the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport, Lagos State Oluseyi Whenu on the outcome of the meeting with a view to ascertaining whether the extension has been granted.

L-R: HR Director, GSK Consumer Nigeria Plc, Mr. Adediran Aderemi; Commercial Director, GSK Consumer Nigeria Plc, Mr. Mark Pfister; Fundraising Officer, SOS Children’s Villages, Nigeria, Ms. Ashionye Enumah; Finance and Controlling Advisor, SOS Children’s Villages, Nigeria, Mr. Abu Tunde and Legal Director and Company Secretary, GSK Consumer Nigeria Plc, Mr. Uche Uwechia, during GSK’s visit to the SOS Children’s Village, Isolo, Lagos

Roads maintenance: FG still owes states N522bn

he National Economic Council, NEC, on Thursday confirmed that 13 states of the Federation had complied with the requirements for the reimbursement of funds used in maintenance of Federal roads worth N535.5bn while only N13bn was disbursed as at 2013. The governors of Oyo, Abiola Ajimobi; Kano, Abdullahi Ganduje; Delta, Ifeanyi Okowa; and Benue, Samuel Ottom, briefed State House Correspondents on the outcome of the meeting presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. Ajimobi, said eight states had complied with the disbursement requirements while 21 had yet to comply. ``Another issue discussed is on refund of expenses incurred on repair of federal roads by states. ``As listed here, we have 13 states that have fully complied with the re-imbursement requirements, we have eight states that have partially complied, 21 states without compliance and the total sum of claims to be reimbursed is exactly N535.59bn. ``Then we have N13bn that has been disbursed to the states already as at 2013,’’ he said. According to the governor the challenges being faced is inadequate funding in the ministry. He said the NEC was told by the Central Bank Governor, Mr Godwin Emefiele that 18 states had drawn from the intervention fund issued by the Buhari administration while applications from a number of other states were being processed. This was part the president’s relief package designed to help

states pay backlog of salaries and also ease their financial challenges caused by a drop in federal allocation. In a similar vein, the Director-General of the Debt Management Office, DMO, Mr Abraham Nwankwo, also informed the NEC that the second phase of the debt restructuring offered to the states was now in effect with 13 new states being considered. The debts of no fewer than 11 states were restructured in August, according to Nwankwo, who also told the Council that 23 states were now involved in the restructuring. NEC was also told that while a total of N322bn of states’ loans were restructured in August while about N252bn loans were so far restructured in September. Having been briefed by the ministry of agriculture on the current and future agricultural policy direction, the Council expressed gratitude that fertilizer use in the country increased by 271 per cent. It, however, concluded that there was the need for more interaction with the states and local governments and their approach in agriculture should be bottom-top approach.

2007. According to the statement, the stakeholders are of the view that NEITI needs more powers to effectively monitor the oil, gas and mining industries. NEITI, it added, had over the years shown courage, competence, integrity and professionalism in the execution of its mandate in spite of challenges. They identified areas of NEITI’s law for possible amendment to include provisions for funding, access to information, and structure of the governing board. The others were powers of the executive secretary and ability of NEITI to enforce sanctions, noting that it would reposition NEITI to implement the global principles of extractive industries transparency initiative. It said given the peculiar nature of NEITI’s assignment, the sensitive nature of the sector to national economy and its affiliation, the agency required enough powers to perform its responsibilities. It called for financing of NEITI’s activities through the natural resources development fund, and that certain percentage of recovered oil, gas and mining company’s revenue be granted to NEITI to finance its

Stakeholders seek more powers for NEITI

takeholders in the extractive industry advocate review of the law setting up the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, NEITI, to give it sweeping powers. This is contained in a statement by Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, NEITI’s Director of Communication, and made available to newsmen in Abuja on Friday. It stated that the stakeholders gave the advice at a roundtable on review of NEITI Act of

Ahmed

World Bank to strengthen Nigeria’s power sector

he World Bank, through one of its arms IFC, is working in concert with Energynet limited whose activity focuses on power and industrial sectors across Africa, to facilitate investments and deepen private sector involvement in Nigeria’s power sector. Eme Essien Lore, IFC Country Manager for Nigeria, said, “Nigeria’s government has demonstrated a strong will to move the power sector forward, and IFC remains committed to supporting its ongoing power sector reforms. IFC is partnering with Energynet to help facilitate collaboration among major stakeholders and map out strategies to move the sector forward. As the power sector develops, more jobs will be created and Nigeria’s economy will grow.” IFC has continued to support development in the power sector through the Energy Business Plan, whereby each World Bank Group institution, IFC, The World Bank, and MIGA, will leverage their competencies and products to provide solutions to projects that encourage their viability and contribute to the sustainability of the power sector. Under the Energy Business Plan, IFC will provide project structuring and investments along with tailor-made packages of risk mitigation instruments that include World Bank Partial Risk Guarantees and MIGA political risk insurance. These interventions will develop power generation, distribution and gas supply. IFC and EnergyNet have a longstanding partnership, and share the goal of promoting access to electricity in Africa. Commenting, Simon Gosling, Managing Director of EnergyNet, said, “Nigeria’s power sector reforms have continued to gain momentum and to accelerate the pace of development in the industry. Long

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Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

term capital and international expertise are critical. Together with IFC and other partners, we are bringing stakeholders to generate investments and build the sector.”

Lagos traffic moving. The unions jointly pledged their readiness to partner with LASTMA and agreed to monthly stakeholders meeting with the purpose of finding a lasting solution to Lagos metropolis traffic congestion.

Turbine market to grow by 12.3% in 2019

Ogun presents Cs of O to homeowners

esearch and Markets report forecasts that the turbine market in Nigeria will grow at a CAGR of 12.3 percent over the period 2014-2019. The report, Turbine Market in Nigeria 2015-2019, was prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects in the coming years. Increasing investments in the power sector is a key trend observed in this market. Since the cost of alternative power generation from diesel-based generation sets is four times higher than the cost of reliable power generation. Nigeria is seeking private power companies to increase the reliable power generation and reduce the power deficit. According to the report, the availability of power generation sources in Nigeria is a critical driver that fosters growth in this market. The country is the largest oil producer in Africa and is among the top five exporters of LNG. Oil and gas ensures a continuous fuel supply to the power plants in the country. Further, the report states that the major challenge faced by this market is the operational difficulty of gas and steam turbines. Variation in fuel quality is one of the major operational concerns associated with gas and steam turbines, which hampers the market growth as it can cause system failure.

GE partners Sinomach on clean energy

E and Sinomach, China National Machinery Industry Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding, MOU to collaborate on clean energy projects. The initiative is expected to double access to power in SubSaharan Africa where more than two-thirds of the population is without electricity. The agreement marks a milestone for the partnership between GE and Sinomach, a leading diversified international industrial conglomerate. The two parties already collaboratively delivered multiple infrastructure projects in Latin America, Africa and Asia,

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Ayo Esan

L-R: GM, Diageo Brands Nigeria, Mr. Neil Comerford; Brand Manager, Johnnie Walker, Ms. Oyinade Olufemi-Osobajo; Head of Reserve, Mr. Joe Nazzal and Joy Ambassador, Don Jazzy at the launch of Johnnie Walker ‘JOY WILL TAKE YOU FURTHER’ Campaign in Lagos

involving $3Bn investment in energy sector. With the MOU, GE and Sinomach have agreed to enhance cooperation for projects in Africa’s clean energy sector Jointly develop, invest and finance clean energy projects under the Power Africa initiative. They will also collaborate on the Kipeto Wind Power Project to build an installed capacity of 102 megawatts (MW) for Kenya’s power grid as pilot project of agreed cooperation Kenya is a power lacking country with 80 percent of her population without regular electricity. To fill the gap, the country has set an ambitious target of producing 2,036MW of wind power by 2030. The Kipeto Wind Power Project will be built in Kajiado, 80 kilometers south of Nairobi. When completed, the Kipeto project will add 102MW of capacity to the Kenyan national power grid with the installation of 47 GE 1.6-100 wind turbines and 16 GE 1.6-82.5 wind turbines (each with the capacity of 1.62MW). Mr. Ren Hongbin, Chairman of Sinomach states: “Sinomach is building core strength in technology and operations to speed up its transformation from a traditional State owned enterprise to a truly competitive global player. Partnership with GE proves to be strategically valuable for our sustainable success in emerging market like Africa. It clearly outlines a new formula for US-China collaboration in 3rd country market. It is our hope that we can bring the mutually beneficial partnership to a new level and inspire more successful collaborations between our peers from US and China.” Rachel Duan, president and CEO, GE Greater China, said,

“As the partner of choice for China infrastructure exporters, GE aims to forge win-win collaboration model to secure long term success across globe. GE-Sinomach collaboration will cover broad spectrum of domains to allow our partner to truly benefit from GE’s technology, global outreach and execution insights. In a big picture, we hope the joint effort bring closer the globalization roadmaps of business in two countries. Kipeto Wind Power Project is a part of Power Africa initiative, launched by the Obama administration in 2013. The plan aims to support the growth of Sub-Saharan region with double access to electricity in Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria and Tanzania using clean energy.

New face of LASTMA: Transport unions pledge support Adejuwon Osunnuyi

agos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, has unveiled the new face of LASTMA that is committed to highly mobile, efficient and effective traffic management in line with the best global practices. The General Manager of the agency, Mr. Bashir Braimah who met with the representatives of transportation unions at LASTMA headquarters at Oshodi re- affirmed the commitment of the State government to safety of lives, free flow of traffic and harmonious working relationship between the agency and its publics. Braimah, who tagged the sitting as a family gathering, stated that as professional

traffic managers, “we have mapped out strategies that will increase the level of voluntarily compliance through awareness, sensitisation and public enlightenment, adding that the agency is more determined than ever to enhance sanity, decency, orderliness and safe road usage in conformity with the New Lagos State Charter on Service delivery. He lamented that motorists are reverting to old habits of indiscriminate parking, wanton disobedience of traffic lights/signals, BRT violations amongst othesr have become a daily features since the pronouncement of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on impoundment and arrest of offender vehicle. Explaining further tha without adequate movement of goods and services no economy can grow and Lagos is not an exception, therefore all hands must be on deck to take the State to the next economy level. “Since traffic plays a vital role in business and economy growth, government cannot fold its hands and allows lawlessness and impunity to reign unchallenged on our roads,” he charged. The LASTMA boss used the opportunity to remind the stakeholders that the Road Traffic law is still in existence and the agency is poised to commence in accordance with the laws, the restoration of road sanity so as to effectively eradicate flouting of traffic rules and regulations on Lagos roads. He further appealed to the unions to cue in to the vision of the State and be cautious on the road, drive safely avoid over speeding and ensure that their vehicles are road worthy at all times so as to avoid preventable accidents and deaths. He enjoined them to corporate with LASTMA in order to keep

he Ogun State Government has presented another batch of 1,500 Certificates of Occupancy, Cs of O and other title documents to beneficiaries under the Homeowners Charter Scheme which took place at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. Presenting the Cs of O, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Yetunde Onanuga said that the Senator Ibikunle Amosun led administration has consistently fulfil its obligations to the people of the State by ensuring that they obtain appropriate title documents for their properties. She said the Government would keep its promise not only in respect of the Homeowners Charter programme but also on all issues bordering on the development of the State and Improvement of the living standard of the people. “You will all agree with me that the Homeowners Charter programme was conceived by a Government which considers itself as a burden bearer and acting to ameliorate the suffering of the down trodden in the society and this lofty programme has equally generated both direct and Indirect employment” she said. The deputy Governor assured all the applicants who genuinely satisfied all requirements under the programme that they would not be denied the opportunity. Speaking earlier, the Director of Lands Title Ratification, Bureau of Lands and Survey, Mr Fatai Adeboyejo said that the Homeowners Charter programme has been successful, noting that over 9,500 homeowners have benefited so far. BC

Amosun

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Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

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Companies & Markets

BDC owners oppose naira depreciation Stories by Udo Onyeka

ureau De Change Owners have condemned the clamour for further depreciation of the naira by international organisations. Rising from the maiden BDC

Owners Forum held in Lagos recently the Forum pledged to support the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to ensure continued stability of the naira. This decision followed deliberations on recent developments in the BDC subsector

and the foreign exchange market in general. Identifying the need for professionalism among BDC operators, the Forum pledged to strengthen the Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria ,ABCON, to institute a robust supervision and sanction regime in the BDC industry. To complement this, the Forum

L-R: Executive Director, Finance and Control, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Oladele Alabi; Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Jibril Aku; Head, Personal Banking, Ecobank Nigeria, Kingsley Umadia; Chief Risk Officer, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Felix Aremo, and President, National Association of Oduduwa Students (NAOS), Comrade Adekunle Michael Adeniyi, presenting ‘Agent of Societal Transformation in Nigeria’ award to the Management of Ecobank Nigeria Ltd in Lagos

RenCap appoints Popoola as CEO for Nigeria

enaissance Capital, RenCap, has announced the appointment of Temi Popoola as Chief Executive Officer, CEO, for Nigeria. According to a statement in his new role, Mr. Popoola will focus on equities and growing the investment banking side of the business, as well as overseeing a 25-strong team in Lagos. He will report to Igor Vayn, CEO, and Ruslan Babaev, Chief Business Officer, with additional reporting lines to Ben Samuels, Global Head of Equities, and James Friel, Global Head of Investment Banking. Mr. Popoola joined Renaissance Capital in July 2015 and has been working closely with the sales team, traders and

research analysts both locally and across the Firm’s network of offices to drive the Nigerian equities business. He has over 13 years of international experience in equities and derivatives in emerging markets. Prior to joining the Firm, he played a key role in building a successful equities business at CSL Stockbrokers/FCMB in Lagos, enabling the company to become the number two by market share on the NSE in 2014. Mr. Popoola began his career as an asset manager in London in 2002, before joining Bank of America Securities in New York in 2006 as a trader in equity derivatives. He then moved to Lagos three years later to join the

United Bank for Africa as Head of New Products and Investments. Mr. Popoola was also the co-founder of Centurion Capital Partners, an asset management firm based in New York. He holds a First Class degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Lagos and obtained a Master’s Degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. “We are very pleased to have appointed Temi as CEO for Nigeria. He brings a wealth of experience to the role and his expertise will enable us to further strengthen our offering there. Nigeria is a crucially important market for the Firm and has vast potential. Therefore, we are committed to building our

Fidelity Banks begins Saturday Banking Services

idelity Bank has announced the commencement of Saturday banking services in select branch locations across the country. This initiative which is in line with the Bank’s mission to make financial services easy and accessible is part of the bank’s renewed effort to provide a new face of service in the industry. In a statement from the Bank,

effective September 12, 2015 Saturdaybanking services commenced between 10.00am to 2.00pm in 15 select Fidelity Bank branches across the country. The branches include Ketu, Alaba, Computer Village, Gbagada, Egbeda, (Lagos); Ekpoma, Mission Road (Edo State); Aba 3, Umuahia (Abia) and Challenge, Ibadan. Others are Polo Park, (Enugu), Nnewi, Onitsha Main

(Anambra); Kano 3 and Owerri Main. Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc. Nnamdi Okonkwo said that the introduction of Saturday banking services further reaffirms the bank’s commitment towards the creation of new customer experience in service delivery. “We are actively changing the way we do business; becoming more fo-

decided to set up a taskforce on compliance and ethics for the industry. Disclosing the outcome of the meeting to the press, Managing Director/Chief Executive, Sabil BDC, Alhaji Aminu Gwadabe, said, “The Forum also resolved to hold monthly meetings that must be attended strictly by BDC Owners with the aim of reviewing developments in the subsector. “As part of measures to strengthen capacity building in the industry, the Forum resolved to introduce an annual two days mandatory training for a director and manager from each BDC. The Forum also resolved to set up subcommittees on various issues to encourage industry wide participation of BDC operators on issues pertaining to the business of BDC. “The Forum also resolved to regularly engage relevant regulatory and government agencies with a view to complement their objectives, and also partner with them to achieve macroeconomic goals of the government. The Forum also resolved to work towards a united and undivided ABCON as well as unity of all BDC operators under the umbrella of the Association through tours, visits to different zones of the country as well as end of year parties and awards. BC

presence in the country and the wider sub- Saharan region, and Temi’s appointment will allow us to continue our strong progress over recent years.” Igor Vayn, CEO, and Renaissance Capital, commented BC

Popoola

cused on our customers’ needs and exceeding their expectations from us.” He noted the changing business environment and insisted that the only way to remain relevant to customers is to stay in tune with the times. In terms of value proposition to customers, Okonkwo said Saturday banking will allow customers to send and receive money to and from over 200 countries of the world. BC

NIPOST seals two illegal courier firms, revokes 10 licenses Victor Udoh

he Courier Regulatory Department, CRD, of the Nigerian Postal Service, NIPOST, over the weekend announced the closure of two companies, allegedly operating courier services without licences in the country. Senior Assistant Post MasterGeneral of NIPOST, Dr Simon Emeje, who made this known in a chat on Thursday with newsmen in Lagos, noted that the agency had to shut down the two illegal operators as well as revoke licenses of 10 operators in Lagos. He said the government action followed breach of guidelines setting up the courier firms, and to serve as deterrent to would-be others as well as safeguard the nation’s economy. Emeje, who also heads CRD, gave the names of the affected companies as OJ Transport Company Nigeria Limited in Jibowu, and Happy Family Motors in Ojuelegba. The companies whose licences were revoked are Candid Care, Delta Line Courier, Don Chris Integrated, Edo Courier, Impex Worldwide, Izu Courier KTA Freight Service, KSP Shipping and Logistics, Service Solutions and Speedmark Courier. The clampdown on the firms is also not unconnected with their non-remittances of NIPOST dues. According to Emeje, ‘‘The clamp down on these companies is because they don’t have license and by law it is illegal. Also the revocation of 10 licenses is because they owe the Nigerian Postal Service for five years now. ‘‘The action by NIPOST is also to introduce sanity in the industry and create a better society. ‘‘It’s a national assignment and equally very essential for the sanity of the courier sub-sector.’’ The senior assistant post-master general, while maintaining the need for further clampdowns should the need arise ‘‘because of the critical nature of the subsector to the nation’s economy,’’ assured on the imperative of sanitising the courier sub-sector in the interest of investors. He however lamented that in spite of the viability of the sector, much of the sector had gone untapped. He said: ‘‘the courier subsector is very viable, but it is a pity that only 20 per cent of the market has been tapped as of now, while 80 per cent remains untapped.’’ The senior assistant postmaster general therefore called on support from the government, captains of industry, individual, groups including corporate bodies to invest more in the courier business to help buoy the economy. BC

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Monday, September 21, 2015

A7 23

Companies & Markets

BOI says poor business plan hinders credit to SMEs T Stories by Udo Onyeka

he Bank of Industry, BoI has said though the Small and Medium Enterprises, SMEs are backbone to development of many nations funding has remained a challenge to that sub-sector. The BoI noted that poor business plans have continued to make banks reluctant to give credit SMEs. The banks managing director, Rasheed Olaoluwa who spoke at the conference of Finance Correspondents of Nigeria, FICAN in Lagos at the weekend also noted that absence of bankable Business Plans and lack of clear Business Models are major challenges hindering credits to SMEs. Olaoluwa further said that information asymmetry arising from SMEs’ lack of accounting records makes it difficult for creditors and investors to assess the creditworthiness of potential SME proposals. He observed that finance has been identified in many business surveys as a critical factor for the survival and growth of SMEs in both developing and developed countries. “Access to finance allows

SMEs to undertake productive investments to expand their businesses and to acquire the latest technologies, thus ensuring their competitiveness and that of the nation as a whole. Poorly functioning financial systems can seriously undermine the macroeconomic fun-

damentals of a country, resulting in lower growth in income and employment” he added. The MD noted that despite their dominant numbers and importance in job creation, SMEs traditionally have faced difficulty in obtaining formal credit or equity. He said “For example, maturities of commercial bank loans extended to SMEs are often limited to a period far too

L-R: Secretary & Director of Admin NIPSS, Mr. Jonathan Mela Juma; NDIC CEO, Alh. Umaru Ibrahim and Director General of the Institute, Professor Tijjani Mohammed Bande (Extreme right) while the Representative of the Vice President, Alh. Ibrahim Mohammed Yabani who is also Director of Administration in the VP office cuts the tape to commission the Research Directorate building donated by NDIC to the Institute

Sterling Bank partners govt on e-PASS

ederal Government has entered into a partnership agreement with Sterling Bank Plc and a project contractor, Continental Transfer Technique for the collection and payment accounting for a project called ‘e-PASS. The project will commence on Wednesday September 22, 2015. The e-PASS project is a scheme designed by the Federal Government to ensure that all Non-ECOWAS immigrants that visit Nigeria with a Tourist or Business Visa and intend to stay beyond an aggregate of 56 days in a year are made to pay a certain amount of money as advised by the Nigerian Immigration Service, NIS. With this agreement, Sterling Bank in a statement said the fee can now be paid from the date of commencement of the scheme at the Bank’s designated airport stations or branches. Already, the Bank has designated its representatives to be stationed at the five International airports located in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano and Enugu for this pur-

short to pay off any sizeable investment. This is due to the shortterm nature of their funds, with the attendant mismatch if granted as long-term facilities to SMEs. Meanwhile, the tendency is for access to competitive interest rates to be reserved only for prime customers, while loan interest rates offered to SMEs remain high”. BC

pose. The branches that will be involved in the e-PASS scheme in Lagos include the Airport Road, Ilupeju, Adeola Odeku, Allen Avenue and head office branch along Marina, Lagos while branches at Sterling Boulevard, CBD, Mamman Kotangora Close, Area 3, Garki and Adetokunbo Ademola, Wuse will take part in Abuja. Others include Okpara Av-

enue, Enugu, Trans Amadi 1 in Port Harcourt, and Murtala Mohammed way in Kano. In a statement signed by its Group Head, Strategy & Communications, Mr. Shina Atilola and made available to newsmen over the weekend, the Bank explained that an aggregate stay beyond 56 days but not exceeding 90 days would attract a fee in the equivalent of $200 while 91 days to 180

days will attract a fee equivalent to $1,000. Aggregate stay beyond 180 days but not exceeding 365 days would attract a fee equivalent to $2,000 while an overstay without due permission from the Federal Government would attract a penalty which is 100 per cent of the prescribed fees. A fee of N8, 000 will be charged for each application form, the Bank said. BC

Phase3 Telecom restates commitment to clients .....Unveils anniversary plan Isaiah Erhiawarien

s Phase3 Telecom prepares for the celebration of its 12th Anniversary next month, the West Africa’s independent fibre optic said it is renewing its commitment to its clients. As a result, the company said it will be investing into extending reach, increasing efficiency, and scaling up resilience and adaptability of its network to proffering the best solutions for its clients across West Africa. According to Phase3 Tele-

com it will continue to dedicate his expertise to maximising the sub-region’s growth potential within the sector saying that it has been at the forefront of increasing backbone infrastructure that will boost digital market viability and minimise the challenges of accessibility and reliability across sectors and layered connectivity needs. Chief Executive Officer, Phase3 Telecom,Mr Stanley Jegede, said that it has consistently demonstrated the capacity to deliver homegrown solutions that delivers

significant long term value saying that gave rise of its role to deliver regional connectivity through a single network - Phase3 under the Niger-Nigeria fiber-optic cable project facilitated by the Universal Service Provision Fund ,USPF, through the extension of the Backbone Transmission Infrastructure Programme ,BTRAIN, programme. He said that recently Phase3 Telecom commenced the deployment of a 228 km long aerial fiber optic infrastructure from Kano in Nigeria to Gazaoua in the Republic of Niger, which is a landlocked

BGL, subsidiaries still under suspension - SEC

igeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, says BGL, its subsidiaries and sponsored individuals are still under suspension and are not qualified to operate at the Nigerian capital market. The exchange in a notice on its website said “This is to inform the general public that on September 17, 2015, the Federal High Court in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/767/15; BGL Plc & Ors Vs Securities and Exchange Commission, discharged the Ex-Parte order obtained by BGL Plc and its subsidiaries on the 27th of May 2015. “In view of the Court’s ruling, BGL, its subsidiaries and sponsored individuals remain suspended from operating in the Nigerian capital market. The notice added that “the Nigerian Stock Exchange ,NSE, Central Securities Clearing System CSCS, Financial Market Dealers Quotation ,FMDQ, Plc, Nigeria Association of Securities Dealers ,NASD, Plc and the general public should further note that the directives of the Commission in its public notice dated the 21st of May 2015 still subsists.” SEC is empowered under Sections 13(n), 45, 303 of the Investments and Securities Act ,ISA, 2007 and Rule 598 of its Rules and Regulation to protect the integrity of the capital market against all forms of abuses by investigating and sanctioning persons who violate the Provisions of the Act and rules and Regulation thereto. The Commission therefore assured all stakeholders and the general public that it is committed to protecting investors and the capital market. BC

country that borders seven countries; Algeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Libya, Mali, and Nigeria. He said: “As more clients that ride on the Phase3 network take advantage of the Internet of Things to deliver efficiency in their areas of business; it is very important for us to continue to extend reach as well as adopt the best technology and resource to make our network more secure, resilient and adaptive.” He noted that without this, the network will be largely exposed to incessant point of failure with fatal impact on the client and huge cost in millions on downtime. BC

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Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

A9 25

Brand Watch

NBC scouts for future leaders through campus career expo C

Coca-Cola launches new orange fruit drink

Stories by David Audu

s part of its plan to improve talent and develop future leaders, the Nigerian Bottling Company, NBC, recently held a Campus Career Expo at the University of Ibadan, Oyo State. The event, attendeb by students from different faculties of the tertiary institution, created opportunity for the students to interact and network with top executives of the bottling company. While addressing students at the Career Fair, Head of Public Affairs and Communications, NBC Uzo Odenigbo, said the programme was designed to identify and prepare young talents in different higher insti-

tutions of learning across the country and groom them to be business and industry leaders in different fields of endeavor. “It is a direct opportunity for undergraduates who are highfliers to accomplish their goal of building world-class careers in a world-class organisation.” Human Resources Business Partner – Supply Chain, NBC, Yetunde Adesunloye, who also spoke at the event said, the NBC was meeting and interacting with young, bright and talented students who possess great potentials and are capable of building a robust and rewarding career in NBC, after fulfilling all the necessary academic requirements expected for their various degree programmes”. Adesunloye added that NBC

Limited is committed to youth development and the Career Expo is a strategic approach to develop a culture of academic excellence. Speaking further, she said, “The Company is committed to welcoming new talents, developing employees and engaging people from outside as part of organizational renewal. The programme gives students an opportunity to learn about the Company and its well-loved brands.” As an equal opportunity employer, NBC Limited promotes diversity and sound workplace practices. The Company currently engages the services of over 4,000 full time employees, providing livelihood to many more across its value chain. As a sign of confidence in the

Odenigbo

country’s educational system, NBC Limited has continued to make strategic investments in improving the standard of basic education, while positioning itself as an employer of choice. BC

NB to showcase consumer experience at Ojude Oba festival

igerian Breweries Plc has pledged its commitment to bring excitement to this year’s Ojude Oba festival, a cultural event that brings the sons and daughters of Ijebuland together and attracts local and foreign tourists to the heart of Ogun State during the Eid el Kabir celebrations. The Company announced two of its leading brands, Goldberg Lager Beer and Maltina as major sponsors of the festival. Speaking at the press conference to unveil plans for the 2015 edition of the festival in IjebuOde recently, the Corporate Affairs Adviser, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Kufre Ekanem disclosed that Goldberg will be on-ground

Ekanem

at the carnival to fete consumers. He said the brand will set up a beer village at the Dipo Dina stadium, Ijebu-Ode where locals and tourists can enjoy Goldberg

Lager Beer amid the fun fare of a musical carnival. The Corporate Affairs Adviser who was represented by the Public Affairs Manager West/ Mid-West, Mr. Tayo Adelaja, also said that Maltina, Nigeria’s number one malt drink will also be available to share happiness with the people at the festival. Meanwhile the Chairman of the 2015 Ojude Oba Festival Committee, Barrister Wahab Osinusi commended Goldberg and Maltina brands for lending support to the festival. In his words, “Maltina has been supporting the festival for several years. Goldberg lager beer is making its second appearance as a sponsor of the

Recare introduces anti-hair breakage range

ersonal style brand, Natures Gentle Touch, has introduced a new line of anti-hair breakage range expected to provide solution to hair breakage problem resulting from poor hair care routine. The Eucalyptus anti-hair breakage range is a 4-step solution; Weekly Anti-Hair Breakage Shampoo, Weekly AntiHair Breakage Reconstruction Masque, Weekly Anti-Hair Breakage Leave-in-Serum and Daily Hair Breakage Control designed to repair and revive damaged hair. Speaking about the development, Brand Manager, Natures Gentle Touch, Mrs. Toyin Adepegba stated that the addition to the brand was informed by re-occurring hair breakage problem in Nigerian women and the desire to groom the hair back to a healthy state.

‘’Research tells us that 8 out of 10 Nigerian women are concerned about hair breakage and desire to have healthy hair. The common factors contributing to hair breakage in Nigerian women are unhealthy hair care practices like tight braids, weaves and extensions, over processing of hair, hair colouring and lack of moisture in the hair ‘’ she said. Operations Manager, Recare Limited, manufacturers of the products, Mr. Daniel Appiah stated that, ‘‘the Eucalyptus Anti-Hair Breakage treatment range is formulated with ultra-active hair strengthening protein-based complex which is blended with essential eucalyptus oil and other herbal ingredients to heal and fortify weak or damaged hair’’. He stated that the Eucalyptus anti-hair breakage range is clin-

ically tested for effective treatment of hair breakage, adding that the treatment should be repeated weekly to achieve the desired result. He also took time to explain the treatment process. “First of all, the hair needs to be shampooed with the anti-hair break-

Appiah

Ojude Oba festival. We trust that our partnership will be enduring and mutually beneficial. We have been authoritatively informed that the company will be putting together a Goldberg beer village in Ijebu Ode from next week until the end of the festival, in addition to a music carnival. We seize this opportunity to express our profound gratitude to Nigerian Breweries for this gesture.” . The Ojude Oba festival is an annual festival held to celebrate religious tolerance that has prevailed in Ijebuland for over two centuries. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Harnessing Our Cultural Heritage for Economic Development”. BC

age shampoo to clean and prepare the hair for the next step of the four-step process. Once clean the anti-hair breakage reconstruction masque should be applied to the hair and have the hair covered with a plastic cap to allow the hair absorbs the masque. The reconstruction masque should be rinsed off from the hair 30 minutes later. “Next, the anti-hair breakage serum should be applied to the hair allowing it to be styled as desired. In addition, the daily hair breakage control must be applied to the hair daily in order to continue the reconstruction process and protect the hair from further breakage.” He concluded, “It is a process that works and one that is needed to cope with the harsh environmental factors that Nigerian women experience in our country”. BC

oca-Cola Nigeria has launch of a new fruit juice variant, 5AlivePulpy Orange to its Five Alive brand. The new product is said to contain real fruit juice and pulp and it has no fizz or added preservatives. It joins the 5Alive juice family which comprises of Orange, Berry Blast, Apple, Citrus Burst and Pineapple Punch. According to the company, 5Alive Pulpy comes with no fizz in it and is one-of-a-kind in the Nigerian fruit drink market. The new 5Alive Pulpy which is differentiated in a market already bursting with a plethora of juice offerings, gives consumers the mouth-filling and sensorial experience of biting into an orange, and the feeling of pulp in every gulp. Senior Brand Manager Stills, Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited, Samuel Alugo said “With the new 5Alive Pulpy Orange, we want to give a unique experience to the consumers, the smell and taste you get when you are eating an orange”. He said the Oranges used in the production are also sourced from farmers in Nigeria, guaranteeing a steady, qualitative source for production and helping to develop the local agriculture value chain. Commenting on its introduction, the Marketing Director, Patricia, Coca-Cola Nigeria, Patricia Jemibewon said, “We have had an excellent response down on our other variants with a reused value to the drink; and with the national launch of 5Alive Pulpy Orange, we are stepping to extend Coca-Cola Nigeria’s market leadership in the fruit-flavoured drink segment.” The pulpy fruit drink with real orange pulp comes in a distinctive shaped 40cl PET bottle with a top, simulating a real orange segment and juice sac. The pack size its attractive shape that is also easy to handle will make the new 5Alive Pulpy Orange the favourite for onthe-go consumers. The product is available in the market and would be retailed across 35,000 outlets in all major cities across the country BC

Jemibewon

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Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Energy Review

Exploring coal potential for improved power supply, cleaner environment Following the inability of the power generating companies, Gencos, to access enough gas to power their plants, experts have advised the government to look in the direction of coal as an alternative source of power generation in view of its availability and environment-friendliness. Gbenga Odogun reports

t is no longer news that the Gencos have clearly demonstrated their inability to generate enough power to meet national electricity demand. The recent improvement in electricity supply which peaked or hovered around 4,500 megawatts is still a far cry from what is required to guarantee un-interrupted power on a sustainable basis. It is estimated that the country needs about 20 ,000 mega watts to ensure constant power supply to major cities in the country that have been connected to the national grid while 160,000 megawatts would be needed to provide constant and stable power supply to the whole country. The current capacity is 6000 megawatts out of which 4500 mw is currently available for distribution. The result of this shortfall has lead to experts call for a look at the direction of coal to provide Thermal station to supplement the current capacity Analyst believed that coal is the cheapest source of energy next only to Hydro. It is by far cheaper than nuclear, natural gas, oil. Coal is nothing more than ancient wood which has been under pressure for millions of years. Unlike other forms of energy (nuclear, natural gas, oil, hydroelectric), coal provides many jobs in removing coal from the earth, transporting it to the utility, burning it, and properly disposing of coal ash. However, Coal is a nonrenewable form of energy that comes with negative effect, the burning of coal is actually the leading cause of smog, air toxics, acid rain, and global warming, and 38.2% of the

Coal

world’s emissions come from the burning of coal. Among other emissions from a coal plant include carbon dioxide (the primary cause of global warming), sulfur dioxide (damages forests and lakes, and also can takes the form of small airborne particles which can penetrate deep into the lungs), nitrogen oxide (creates ozone and can damage the lungs), carbon monoxide (causes headaches), hydrocarbons (which form ozone), mercury, arsenic (a carcinogen), lead, cadmium, other toxic heavy metals, as well as traces of uranium. In spite of these short comings associated with coal, experts believed that it can safely play a complementary role in the Nations quest for sustainable and regular power supply. The Nigerian Coal mining corporation readily comes to mind here. The Nigerian Coal Corporation (NCC) responsible for mining and selling coal is based in Enugu; it was established in 1909 following the discovery of coal in Ogbete and other parts of the country. It became a corporation in 1950 when they were all merged together with the task of exploiting coal resources, and held a monopoly on coal and coke mining, production, and sales until 1999. Nigeria’s coal industry suffered a blow in the 1950s when oil was discovered. Up

until this point, the Nigerian Railway Corporation was the largest consumer of coal in the country. However, after the discovery of oil, the Railway Corporation began to replace its coal burning trains with diesel-powered engines. An additional negative impact came when the Electricity Corporation of Nigeria began converting its power generation equipment from coal to diesel and gas as well The Nigerian Civil war also negatively impacted coal production; many mines were abandoned during the war. Following the war, production never completely recovered and coal production levels were erratic. Attempts at

Ogunleye

mechanizing production ended badly, as both the implementation and maintenance of imported mining equipment proved troublesome, and hurt production. After the civil war, the Nigerian coal industry has not been able to return to its peak production in the 1950s. Now that other plants such as cement and other manufacturing plants as well as domestic consumptions are competing for the available gas resources, experts believed that now is the time for the Nigerian Independent power project NIPP shift its attention to the area of coal with a view to harnessing them for use as alternative power source.

Last year in August, the federal government signed a $3.7bn memorandum of understanding with a Nigerian-Chinese consortium, HTG-Pacific Energy, for the development of a 1000- to 1200-MW coal-fired power plant in Enugu state. The plant is expected to be operational in the next four years. Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, is the managing Director of powercap Limited, .He lauded the initiative of the government for its decision to make use of the natural endowment of the country to solve a perennial problem. According to him “Given that we have a wide gap between the supply and demand for energy, any available option to fill the gap and that can come on a fast track basis is most welcome.” Ogunleye however draw attention to areas which the government should really look into, if generating power from coal is of priority to them. Areas such as the technology to be deployed, how do we manage the waste from such plants, emissions from the plants , the initial set up cost to ensure it fits into the system appropriately,should be considered. “The fact that we have coal in abundance, in virtually surface mines and the properties of our coal is said to be very high, which makes it fairly compelling for us to think of the best route to optimise its use”,he said . Similarly, the lead consultant of Diekolop Konsults Ltd, Mr Olugbenga Adesanya,also said it is a step in the right direction adding that coal is the world’s major source of energyAccording to him”. South Africa generates 93 per cent of her energy from coal, followed by Poland with 87 per cent. Even the United States, with its discovery of oil the Texas shale, still gets 45 per cent of its electricity from coal. He lamented how a country that has coal reserves in 14 states has not been able to generate a single megawatt of power from coal. He however hammered on the need for government and the organisations that will be used, to use clean coal technology to ensure minimal emissions and management of waste from these coal mines, when they become operational BC

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Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

A11 27

Investment in technology ‘ll mitigate insurgency – Report

Isaiah Erhiawarien

s the activities of insurgence continue to growing in Africa with the Boko Haram sect infiltrating into the camp of the internally displaced person, IDP, there is now the need to exploit the role of technology. Business Courage investigation revealed that the previous plan to deploy drones to track the insurgents in the Sambisa forest may have paid off, although it was never deployed. It was not until recently, when the new Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Dr. Emmanuel Kachikwu disclosed that drones will be deployed to monitor the theft of oil in the country. It was gathered that the Institute for Economics and Peace conducted a research project assessing the economic impact of violence across the globe, and the results are staggering revealing that the total cost of violence containment around the world is US$9.46 trillion. Surprising, according to the study that amount is 75 times that which is spent on foreign aid, and almost double the size of the world’s agricultural sector, which means as a global community more money is being spent on keeping peace than is spent feeding the people of the world. For instance, the report said that nearly two-and-ahalf times the total GDP of the African continent, in terms of the amount spent on violence containment as a percentage of GDP, Liberia sits at 22.7 per cent, Zimbabwe at 18.2 per cent, and South Africa at 8.5 per cent. In a press statement reacting to the growing trend of violence in the continent, SAP Africa said it sees technology playing key role saying that fighting technology more effectively at a less cost is the main challenge. General Manager Public Services, SAP Africa, Michael Pittelkow said that “Technology can enable governments

Pittelkow

to respond quicker and more effectively to incidents,” saying “By taking advantage of the digital economy, government and its branches and responders can quickly, efficiently and most importantly, accurately, ascertain the level of response needed to an incident.” He added that, “through the use and analysis of the data generated from the incidents, auditable and accurate information can be generated and used to predict crime hotspots. This in turn allows for governments to ensure adequate resources, staffing and training are available to the correct security and safety divisions, reducing costs to the government and ultimately, the taxpayer.” Head of the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Governance, Crime and Justice Division, Gareth Newham, said in response to the release of the latest crime statistics for South Africa in September 2014 that the increase in crime over the past two years shows that a new approach to reducing violence and crime is urgently needed. “We must address serious challenges facing the police, involve other government departments, and look hard at the factors which cause violence.” SAP noted that today more than ever, law enforcement

Newham

work is not only reactive but also proactive and predictive. Quoting the National Institute of Justice, the statement said that predictive policing tries to harness the power of information, geospatial technologies and evidence-based intervention models to reduce crime and improve public safety. SAP revealed that the twopronged approach is applying advanced analytics to various data sets, in conjunction with intervention models that can move law enforcement from reacting to crimes into the realm of predicting what and where something is likely to happen and deploying resources accordingly. “The predictive policing approach does not replace traditional policing but it enhances existing approaches such as problem-oriented policing, community policing, intelligence-led policing and hot-spot policing”, Pittelkow said. He added: “Real-time analytics and in-memory databases provide opportunities for predictive policing like never before. And this is at reasonable cost.” According to a study conducted by a German State Crime Agency, 70 per cent of polled US police departments used predictive policing software, 90 per cent planning to do so soon. Predictive polic-

ing is also in use in the UK, South Africa and Australia. Pittelkow stated that through the digital transformation that is a hallmark of the digital economy, technology and the massive amount of data available can assist governments in issues of public security, particularly if it is applied through investigation management. He noted that identification of unknown people, objects, locations and events can be displayed and evaluated, and critical information shared in a structured, transparent format saying that it allows investigators who are not geographically close to the investigation, an opportunity to weigh in and provide insights. SAP stated that considering the need to achieve more for less, police forces must adopt a new way of thinking stressing that through better management of information, improved investigative outcomes or greater use of innovative technologies, processes and insights, operational performance can drastically be improved. The SAP strategy on using technology to tackle growing insurgence in Africa further indicated that response time is crucial in any emergency, and can have a major impact on the outcome suggesting that by effectively manag-

ing and planning emergency units, response time is reduced and more risks are averted. Pittelkow explained that real-time situational awareness involves the identification of risks, threats, and consequences of potential incidents, including criminal acts, security breaches, cyber-attacks, and terrorism. He added that technology can enable government to predict crime hot spots to ensure better resource allocation and prevention of crime and violence. In conclusion, Pittelkow added: “Safer and more secure places to live and work are attainable. Through a portfolio of technologies, SAP is able to drive greater community preparedness, increased threat anticipation, improved service delivery, and more.” He said: The growth and sustainability of Africa is a key focus for us, and we are implementing various programmes and initiatives across the continent to ensure job sustainability, economic growth and the safety of nations, noting, “Public safety and security is foremost on the minds of the many African leaders, SAP is committed to working together with the African governments to ensure safety of citizens.”BC

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Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

Smart wearable shipment to reach 173.4m by 2019 A

growing list of vendors, a proliferation of devices, experiences, and price points, and steady consumer adoption will fuel growth in the worldwide market for wearable devices. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Wearable Device Tracker, wearable device shipments will reach 76.1 million units in 2015, up 163.6 per cent from the 28.9 million units shipped in 2014. IDC said that by 2019, worldwide shipments will reach 173.4 million units, resulting in a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.9 per cent adding that total shipments include both basic and smart wearables, which are two very different product categories in many aspects. “Smart wearables only account for about a third of the total market today while basic wearables, led by fitness trackers, account for the rest,” said Senior Research Analyst for IDC’s Mobile Device Trackers, JiteshUbrani,. He explained: “Driven by advancements in user interface (UI) and features, smart wearables are on track to surpass the lower priced, less functional basic wearable category in 2018. Smart wearables will quickly move from a smartphone accessory primarily focused on notifications to a more advanced wearable computer capable of doing more processing on its own.”

IDC said that it expects second and third generations of the Apple Watch will drive shipment volumes later in the forecast, particularly among those customers who take a wait-and-see approach saying that it will, however, see its market share erode as other platforms particularly Android Wear –gain greater salience in the market. The report said further that OEMs will favour other platforms over Linux saying that Linux jumped into the smart wristwear market in 2014, but since then few vendors have come forward to use it as the basis of their wearables strategy. According to IDC, driving the market and gaining attention is smart wristwear, including watches and bands, which are capable of running third-party applications noting that this includes the Apple Watch, Motorola’s Moto 360, Samsung’s Gear S-series, and Pebble’s Time. Research Manager, Wearables,Ramon Llamas sad:”We are at a stage now where more vendors are getting into this segment, setting the stage for more selection and ultimately more volumes.” He said that potential buyers wary of what is currently available will most likely be more interested once the second and third-generation devices come to market with improved hardware and applications stressing that from there, word-of-mouth and user-ambassadors will help

HP to disengage 30,000 employees

he latest cuts are on top of layoffs of 55,000 workers previously announced under HP CEO Meg Whitman. The latest cuts are on top of layoffs of 55,000 workers previously announced under HP Chief Executive Officer, Meg Whitman. Hewlett-Packard, which is splitting into two listed companies later this year, said yesterday it expects to cut another 25,000 to 30,000 jobs in its enterprise business as the tech pioneer adjusts to falling demand. The latest cuts, on top of layoffs of 55,000 workers previously announced under Whitman, notably will be in the company’s fastergrowing corporate hardware and services operations, to be spun off as Hewlett-Packard Enterprise, or HPE, on 1

November. The latest job cuts indicate a reduction of the company’s total workforce by at least 10 per cent, based on the company’s most recent number of more than 300 000 employees as of 31 October 2014, and reflecting the previously-

Whitman

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How to use your Android phones as internet modem

A Llamas

to spur interest. “Looking ahead, customers will need to pay close attention to the different operating systems that power smart wristwear,” added Llamas. He also said: “Different smart wristwear operating systems are compatible with certain smartphone operating systems, and sometimes with specific models. Beyond that, experiences and available applications will widely vary. Just as competition exists for different smart wristwear models, this competition carries over into the operating system landscape.” The IDC report said that Android/Android Wear will experience market-beating growth, with a combination of consumer electronics heavyweights and an expanding list of watchmaker brands also expected to launch their own smart watches in the years to come while also helping Android/Android Wear’s cause is the broader and deeper selection of devices at multiple price points that will appeal to a wide audience. BC

announced reduction of 55,000. The company indicated the cuts will be global, but provided no specifics. Under the split into two companies, the other company, HP Incorporated, will comprise the computer and printer businesses, which have been hit hard by a relentless decline in sales of personal computers. “We’ve done a significant amount of work over the past few years to take costs out and simplify processes and these final actions will eliminate the need for any future corporate restructuring,” Whitman said in a statement. The job cuts, aimed at saving $2.7 billion a year, will result in a charge of about $2.7 billion, beginning in the fourth quarter, BCHP said. BC

ndroid phones are valuable companion and the users really need to understand its functionalities to ensure that they are not under-utilised. If you are an Android phone users, buying internet modem for use on your computer is an unnecessary extra, simply because your Android device can effectively serve that purpose. Tethering your Android Smartphone with your computer enables your device to share its cellular data connection; your computer can access the Internet by letting you share your data connection on your Android device wirelessly with other devices like tablets, laptop and computers. Here are the two simplest, easiest methods to connect your laptop, notebook, or desktop computer to the internet using your Android phone. Wireless connection This is the simplest and easiest means to get connected to the internet on your PC using your Android phone. The only condition here is that your computer must have a wifi connection. This method works by creating a wireless network on your Android device by following the process below: 1. On your Android phone, go to settings, it takes you to wireless and network settings, also click on mobile networks, select the “Use Packet Data” option, and then uncheck “Use only 3G Networks” option. 2. Go to settings and click on wireless and network settings, select tethering & portable hotspot and from there, select the second option “Mobile AP”. After selecting the “Mobile AP”, a blue wifi icon should appear on your phone notification bar. 3. On your laptop, notebook, or desktop computer, or any other device you want to connect to your Android phone that supports wifi, search for the available wireless networks, and select “Android App” option. 4. Your computer or notebook is now connected to the Internet via your Andriod device. Using PdaNet PdaNet is a third party app that allows you to connect your laptop, notebook, or desktop computer to the internet using Android phone. This app shares the internet on your Android with your computer. It does not require any root access or hacking of firmware. To use PdaNet to connect your PC to the internet using your Android phone, you will need to install the app on your Android, and the PC version on your PC using a USB synchronisation cable to effect the connection. Described below are the simple procedures for you to achieve this 1. Download and Install the PdaNet 4.01 on your Android phone which is the latest version. Go to Android Market on your device and search for “Pdanet” 2. Download and Install the PdaNet for your Windows and Mac. Go to www.junefabric.com to select your computer’s OS. 3. After downloading and installation, restart your computer. Once restart, PdaNet icon tray will appear on your PC. 4. Connect your Android device to your computer through a USB cable. Also open PdaNet app on your Android and then select “Enable USB Tether” to make your Android work as modem. 5. Click the PdaNet icon on your PC, and then choose “Connect.” After this, the icon will blink for some seconds and then turn blue, which signifies successful connection. Finally, make sure you turn off the wifi when you no longer need shared Internet access from the other devices because it can drain your cell phone’s battery significantly. If you’re using this feature in a public place or concerned about hackers trying to intercept your data, it’s best to have a password to protect you before broadcasting your signal and also keep in mind that you might be charged extra for this feature, so check your plan with your carrier for more information. BC BC BC

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Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

A13 29

Kolawole Aluko:

A fast-paced entrepreneur Kolawole Aluko is one of Nigeria’s low-key, ultra-wealthy business tycoons, who according to Forbes, is worth well in excess of $50 million. He founded an oil trading firm, Fossil Resources in 2001. Currently, Kola is a Deputy Chief Executive Officer and a leading shareholder of Seven Energy, a leading independent international oil exploration company

By Adejuwon Osunnuyi

erhaps, except for those that operate in the same industry with him, it is most unlikely that not many would be familiar with the name Kola Aluko. Yet, this is one young Nigerian multi-millionaire entrepreneur whom the Forbes Magazine has rated among the top 10 wealthy Nigerians. Kola, a young international businessman, has commercial interests spanning a number of industries globally and includes energy and private aviation. In 2001, he took the bold initiative to establish a personal company-Fossil Resources Limited where he is a Chief Executive Officer. Being a multifaceted businessman, Kola expanded his business interest beyond Fossil Resources limited, as he continues to seek alliances with other businesses to deepen his investment portfolio both in the local and international business markets. In 2004, Kola took far reaching initiative to broaden his experience and influence in the energy sector when he moved from Fossil Resources Limited, an indigenous company which plays in the downstream sector of Nigeria’s oil industry to playing a bigger role in the upstream (exploration) sector of the same industry. This, he accomplished by partnering with other investors to create Exoro Energy International, another Nigerian oil and gas business where he again emerged as the Chief Executive Officer. However, in 2007, Exoro Energy International merged with Seven Energy International, an independent oil and gas development company with interests in three onshore fields in the Niger Delta, and Kola Aluko, being a leading shareholder in the larger organisation, became the deputy CEO of Septa Energy Nigeria Limited, one of the subsidiaries of Seven Energy International, the position which also accorded him a directorship status at Seven Energy (UK) Limited, another subsidiary of Seven Energy International. Strategic partnerships with

Aluko

domestic and multinational oil and gas exploration firms over the past two years have significantly strengthened Seven Energy’s position in the Nigerian market. Having secured long term financial backing, and formed strategic partnerships with the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), the commercial subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation; and Petrofac, a leading global engineering and facilities provider, Aluko is of the view that the group is uniquely positioned in the sector. Indeed, his experience in the oil and gas industry in Nigeria dates back from his days at Besses Oil & Services, a crude oil trading firm where he was a director before he founded Fossil Resources Limited in 2001. However, Aluko said his intentions to play in the oil and gas industry in Nigeria was not influenced by the desire to take his share from Nigeria’s most lucrative business sector but a decision that was informed by the desire to contribute his quota to the development of the sector. “I became involved in oil and gas exploration not just because I wanted to be part of Nigeria’s most successful industry, but because I realised that harnessing our resources is essential to our long-term growth prospects – and that applies not just to Nigeria, but to the region as a whole”, he said. Seven Energy International, the parent company of Septa Energy Nigeria Limited, where Kola Aluko is a shareholder, is a leading independent Nigerian oil and gas exploration, development and production company whose core purpose is to create shareholder value through the development of Nigeria’s gas potential. The company was founded in 2004 as a division of Weatherford International, the oil service company. Following a management buyout in 2007, it merged with Exoro Energy, an indigenous Nigerian player and with the backing of strategic long-term investors; the group has a unique focus on the emerging Nigerian gas market. Seven Energy is a private company with headquarters in Lagos and London. In Nigeria, the company operates through its wholly-owned and principal subsidiaries, Septa Energy Nigeria Limited and Accugas Limited. Seven Energy International says its business model places a strong emphasis on forging the right partnerships to advance its interests in Nigeria. “This is evident in our strategic alliances

with Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), a subsidiary of the national oil company, and with Petrofac, a leading global engineering and facilities solutions provider”, a source within the company revealed. The company pride itself as a company that combines an experienced board and management team, indigenous ownership and strong financial backing to pursue a rapid growth strategy in the Nigerian energy sector. Its competitive advantage, the company says, lies in its unique gas monetisation capability that provides it with a first mover advantage in the emerging domestic gas market. Seven Energy is exclusively focused on exploration, development and production in Nigeria. The company has a unique understanding of Nigeria’s domestic gas market dynamics, enabling it to unlock the potential of the country’s significant gas resources for the growing energy and power needs of Nigerian industry and people. Seven Energy, in the last few years,, has built substantial momentum and local presence by bridging the gap in the market for a domestic gas producer, transporter and supplier to help solve the country’s chronic power shortages. Seven Energy’s business model is founded on the substantial resource potential of the Niger Delta, a unique understanding of the domestic gas market and a willingness to invest in processing and distribution infrastructure. To date, Seven Energy has progressed towards achieving its goal through the acquisition of substantial interests in the undeveloped Uquo and Stubb Creek fields, both of which are brought on to production during 2012. “Production from these fields will be processed and transported to market through processing facilities and pipelines that are owned and controlled by Seven Energy. In addition, Seven Energy’s alliance agreement with NPDC has provided access to mature producing oil and gas fields in OMLs 4, 38 and 41 with substantial upside potential”, the company disclosed. Meanwhile, the main focus of Septa Energy Limited, the Nigerian subsidiary of the gas development and production company of Seven Energy Group, is the supply of gas for the domestic market in Nigeria. To achieve its goal, the company where Kola Aluko functions as Deputy Chief Continued on pg A14

Business Courage

Executive Officer has embarked on strategic investments. For instance, Septa Energy Limited recently invested $420 million in the development of two main gas fields and in the construction of a 60 kilometres long gas pipeline in Nigeria for the delivery of gas to the Ibom Power Plant. Septa Energy started the installation of this new pipeline In April 2010 and the project includes 60km of pipes, linking Ikot Abasi to the 1,000mw Eket Power Station in Nigeria. “As pipelines represent a considerable financial investment and are significant business assets, it is particularly important to assure the integrity and reliability of the pipeline welds during the pipelines installation. For this reason, Septa sought a reliable and independent third-party company in order to ensure the safe function of the pipelines” the company said. Interestingly, SGS Industrial Services, a company well-known for its professional and reliable Pipeline Welding Inspection, was awarded the contract to provide independent inspection of 5,500 welds of the newly installed pipeline for Septa Energy. SGS is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company with extensive experience in inspecting the integrity of pipeline welds. For more than 50 years, SGS has been testing pipelines from all over the world and is familiar with various mill and site inspections on pipeline projects wherever located. The main aim of SGS’s third party inspection is to verify that the welds conform to all the applicable quality standards. The inspection and testing work by SGS is carried out in accordance with governmental standards and the specific requirements of Septa Energy. Accugas Limited a wholly owned subsidiary of Seven Energy International was created as a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to achieve its mission in the gas business. Accugas however is enjoying a great patronage by Nigerian Banks which appear to be ever ready to help finance its projects. The company as reported received an eight year project financing facility from Stanbic IBTC Bank and United Bank for Africa worth $60 million to part finance the construction of the gas pipeline, gas central processing facility and associated infrastructure in Akwa Ibom State. The Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC, Sola David-Borha, said the financing represents the first true project financing in Nigeria for an integrated downstream gas infrastructure network, which includes an extensive gas pipeline distribution network and a gas processing facility. She pointed out that Stanbic IBTC acted as Joint Mandated Lead Arranger with United Bank for Africa Plc on the transaction, adding that Stanbic

Bank in its additional capacity as Structuring Bank and Global Coordinator on the transaction also undertook the roles of Financial Modelling Bank, Facility Agent and Documentation Bank. On his part, Deputy Managing Director UBA Plc, Victor Osadolor, said his bank is proud to invest in Accugas Limited, whose project is uniquely aligned with the Federal Government’s vision of developing the country’s infrastructure and substantially monetising the nation’s immense gas reserve. “The cordial relationship with the sponsors of this project and other similar projects places us in a unique position to continue to support its expansion plans”. The Accugas Gas Pipeline Project involves the construction of a new 65km pipeline with a capacity of 100mmcf/d from Frontier Oil/Septa Energy’s Uquo gas field to Ikot Abassi in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The project also involves the construction of a gas and liquids processing facility and liquids pipeline, which in aggregate will cost in excess of $250 million. The project, Business Courage was learnt, is the first phase in Accugas and Septa Energy’s development programme to bring the South East Niger Delta’s substantial discovered gas reserves to market to meet the growing energy demand from power plants and industrial users in the region. “This has been strongly supported by independent power companies, Akwa Ibom State and industrial companies that require reliable gas supply for their operations”, our source added. Kola’s Septa Energy, besides striving to improve gas supply to Nigerians is also playing a major role in making power available to the people. At the moment, Septa Energy in alliance with Frontier Oil Limited and Gulf Energy Limited are working on a 1,000 megawatts power station in Akwa Ibom State to boost power generation in the country. The project is expected to be commissioned by the end of this year. A strong advocate for development of infrastructure in Africa, Kola believes that the African continent has an abundance of energy resources that must be judiciously used to generate power for social economic development. He argued that domestic energy demand in sub-Saharan Africa is rising due to growth in manufacturing and mining along with an increasing number of middle class consumers. “For many years, however, growth in population and output has far outstripped growth in generation capacity, with the result that large parts of the region now face an energy crisis. Kenya, Burundi and Uganda have all endured periods of power rationing, and the pain is not confined to East Africa”, he said. “Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, is the world’s largest importer of diesel generators – around two million units

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Monday, September 21, 2015

‘ Aluko

I became involved in oil and gas exploration not just because I wanted to be part of Nigeria’s most successful industry, but because I realised that harnessing our resources is essential to our long-term growth prospects – and that applies not just to Nigeria, but to the region as a whole

per year. To maintain production at profitable levels, Nigerian firms are unable to depend solely on state power capacity and are forced to use generators as backup, usually at around two or three times the cost. The fact that they are continuing to expand despite this burden gives us a glimpse of what might be possible once the power infrastructure gap starts to close”, he added. But beyond the oil and gas industry, Kola Aluko is also a major investor in the private aviation sector. He recently struck a deal with VistaJet, a Swiss luxury aviation company where he is a partner. Interestingly, Aluko grew from being a loyal client of Vistajet to becoming a shareholder in the business. According to Thomas Flohr, founder and chairman of VistaJet, “Kola has been a loyal client with VistaJet for many years, and is now helping us drive our expansion throughout West Africa. His expertise and knowledge as an entrepreneur has already helped us establish a major presence in the region”. VistaJet, the world’s premier luxury aviation company, started the expansion of its global network into West Africa following strong demand for its services two years ago. But the expansion is being aggressively driven by Kola Aluko-its partner in Nigeria. Kola was appointed to the company’s Advisory Board which was formed in 2010. Vistajet, according to the chairman, is now the world’s fastest growing private aviation

‘

A14 30

company. “Our fleet of Bombardier aircraft are based across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and West Africa, ready to take you wherever you choose. Our multilingual staffs are based in offices across the globe, ready to arrange every aspect of your flight” he said. Flohr who was full of praises for the role which Kola Aluko had hitherto played in the success of VistaJet in the West African coast proudly disclosed that the company is “delighted to be working in close co-operation with Kola Aluko, who has unparalleled knowledge of the region. This will enable us to realize the major potential we see there, particularly among business leaders and entrepreneurs in the energy and government sectors who fly frequently within West Africa and between West Africa and Europe.” Apparently delighted with his involvement with VistaJet, Kola himself said that he “very excited to be VistaJet’s partner in West Africa. In a very short time, VistaJet has provided the Nigerian and West African community with an alternative and reliable solution for travelling both within the region and internationally. I’m looking forward to working with Thomas and his team in the future development and success of VistaJet’s growth in the West African region’. Besides making gains through business, Kola is a strong proponent of development of infrastructure in Africa and his foundation- Made In Africa

Foundation (MIAF), co-founded with Ozwald Boateng, Africa’s foremost designer and David Miliband, former UK’s Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs is making a meaningful impact in this direction. The Made in Africa Foundation was set up to provide finance for feasibility studies for African businesses and projects involved in the development of major infrastructure projects across Africa. MIAF is also set out to introduce a funding mechanism to assist successful businesses in Africa to transform their existing investments and prospects besides giving Africa Independence through development and infrastructure. Made in Africa Foundation is a UK Foundation whose mission is to fund masterplans, feasibility studies and other project preparation works for successful infrastructure projects in Africa. Business Courage learnt that Kola and his partners at MIAF set out primarily to bridge the projects funding gap in Africa. “Far too often a lack of ‘First Mile’ finance is the missing key to allow successful infrastructure projects in Africa to raise construction finance and reach completion. Despite increasing efforts from governments and DFIs to fill this gap, this type of risk capital remains scarce”, MIAF lamented. It added that “The Tipping Point” is a seminal white paper setting out the Made in Africa Foundation manifesto and establishing MIAF as the first “activist for African infrastructure” the first non-governmental group to recognise its significance for growth in Africa. Therefore, as an independent foundation, MIAF has the ability to work with promoters, governments, multilaterals such as the World Bank and African Development Bank as well as Commercial Banks and private sector investors. Recently, the African Development Bank (AfDB) disclosed a plan to float Africa’s first infrastructure Bond for member nations to raise up to $22 billion for investments in infrastructure in response to MIAF’s initiative on Growth Corridors, hosted in 2009. For Kola Aluko, it is not all about working and making money, he still finds time to unwind and one of the ways he relaxes is by engaging himself in car racing. As a passionate car racing enthusiast, Aluko has competed in major European races with the Swiss team Kessel racing. The young Nigerian oil magnate also lives in luxury. In June this year, he was reported to have purchased two luxury ultra-modern estates in Beverly Hills for a whooping $40 million. He is believed to have business ties with Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke. BC

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

A15 31

ThebuddingEntrepreneurs KLINIC

With Mamora Victor Mamora is a system thinker and advisor whose belief and activator leadership strengths are directed towards improving workers perspective for city and enterprise development.

e-mail: olusegunmamora@gmail.com

hile preparing this work with Abiodun Mamora, finance professional, on preventing overload expense she reminded of the story of a prodigal entrepreneur who got inheritance from his father. While the man had two sons, the younger came to him and said, “Father, I want right now what’s coming to me.” So the father divided the property between them. It wasn’t long before the younger son packed his bags and left for a distant country. There, undisciplined and dissipated, he wasted everything he had. After he had exhausted all his wealth, there was a bad famine all through that country and he began to hurt. He signed on with a citizen there who assigned him to his fields to slop the pigs”. He got a job that was not dignify for his survival but was wise enough to return home to his family for employment in family business. Dear friend, every entrepreneur decision on expense determines the business destiny. Either your business succeeds or fails, it is your decision. Your expense matters in business. Two things are important when considering incurring an expense: ability and availability. Ability is a measure of what you have at hand and what you reasonably expect to have within a period of time. Availability on the other hand takes into cognizance what you expect to spend i.e. your financial obligations and commitments. Your ability can inform your capital expenses but your recurrent expenses should be based on availability. Where this information is lacking, chances are that you can get carried away and overload your business with avoidable expenses. Below are three elements that will help you to make the best of your financial resources and ensure information on ability and availability is readily available at every point in time. 1. Have a budget A financial budget contains the income and expenses that a business expects to earn or incur during a particular period of time. This is a fair estimate of inflows and outflows of a business venture and it helps

in allocating resources ahead of time for attainment of specific goals. A budget shows what is expected, therefore each new expense should be reviewed against the budget to determine if it can be accommodated within that period of time. With a budget, you have spending direction for every income that comes into the business thereby preventing expense overload. 2. Maintain expense records Imagine if the banks do not maintain a record of their customer’s withdrawals, what will happen? One thing for sure is that people will take advantage of it and overdraw their balances by several millions. The

Beware of overload expenses

‘

Every entrepreneur decision on expense determines the business destiny. Either your business succeeds or fails, it is your decision. Your expense matters in business

same applies to your business. Where no record exists, opportunity for mismanagement abound. Therefore we will consider two basic records that will help keep your expense under check. First is the expense requisi-

‘

BUSINESS

tion form. This form shows detail of the expense, the purpose, the amount and the signature of an approving authority. The approving authority is expected to confirm the genuineness of the transaction by reviewing the supporting documents, the

Motivational Business Quotes

he man who will use his skill and constructive imagination to see how much he can give for a dollar, instead of how little he can give for a dollar, is bound to succeed. – Henry Ford It’s through curiosity and looking at opportunities in new ways that we’ve always mapped our path at Dell. There’s always an opportunity to make a difference. – Michael Dell If you work just for money, you’ll never make it, but if you love what you’re doing and you always put the customer first, success will be yours. – Ray Kroc Winners take time to relish their work, knowing that scaling the mountain is what

makes the view from the top so exhilarating. – Denis Waitley Management is nothing more than motivating other people. – Le Iacocca Motivation is the art of getting people to do what you want them to do because they want to do it. – Dwight D. Eisenhower The most serious mistakes are not being made as a result of wrong answers. The truly dangerous thing is asking the wrong question. – Peter Drucker Why did I want to win? Because I didn’t want to lose! – Max Schmelling BC

reasonableness of the amount and provision for such in the budget before appending his/ her signature. Upon approval, the requisition form can be presented to the designated account officer for payment. The second is the payment voucher which shows detail of each expense incurred, the amount, the mode of payment, the beneficiary, etc. These documents help to create a sense of accountability in everyone and as a business owner, you have to set the pace for others to follow. Where you approach the business finance casually, chances are that your co-workers will do likewise. 3. Have an accounting system in place. Just as a football pitch is incomplete without a goal post, so is your business incomplete without an accounting system that reveals how many goals you have conceded or scored at the end of every march. With records of both your expenses and income (as discussed in the last edition), you can reasonably generate your financial statements that will help give more meaning to your entire business operations. The information obtained therein will enable you to easily identify loopholes in your business and present opportunities to improve your operations. Two of these statements are explained below. The profit and loss account summaries the income and the expenses incurred to earn the income for a period of time. When all the expenses are subtracted from income, the balance is a profit. However a loss can arise if the expenses are more than the income generated. With this information, you can see clearly how each expense impacts on the profit. The second is the cash flow statement. A cashflow statement shows the cash position of your business. The cash expenses are presented alongside cash generated to reveal your net cash position which can be positive or negative. To ensure your business does not get cash trapped, each expense (cash or credit) must be considered in the light of the available resources and other outstanding obligations. BC

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Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

N630bn yearly import bill on food worries CBN

he Central Bank of Nigeria CBN, has expressed deep worries over the increasing bill on the importation of food items and other agricultural products, which stood at N630 billion at the end of the 2014 fiscal year. The apex bank had in the last few months been grappling with the dwindling value of the naira, during which it has introduced several fiscal and monetary policies designed to shore up the value of the naira Governor of the bank, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, who was represented at a one day training workshop in Lagos by the acting Managing Director of NIRSAL, Mr. Edwin Nzelu, said that the huge amount of foreign exchange spent on foods import was not sustainable. Some of the agricultural and foods products imported into the country in large quantities include wheat, rice, flour, fish, tomato paste, textile products and sugar. According to him, Nigeria is currently going through a wide range of developmental challenges in the face of the dwindling global crude oil prices, a development that makes urgent diversification of the economy imperative to conserve her scarce foreign exchange. He therefore called for the development of other sectors of the economy, particularly agriculture. Emefiele, who recalled that in the last two decades or thereabout, the nation’s economy was sustained primarily by the agri-

cultural sector, when the country used to export cocoa beans, gum Arabic, groundnuts, cotton, palm oil and many other agricultural commodities. “Now, Nigeria imports almost all the agricultural commodities that she used to produce because of the neglect of the sector, occasioned by rural migration to the cities in search of white collar jobs. The agricultural sector then provided up to 70 per cent of employment in the country and accounted for about 42 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product

GDP”, the apex bank –boss said. He also said: “In Nigeria today, rural farmers contribute to about 70 per cent of the food produced which they do mainly by subsistence farming. These farmers with their small land holdings of one to three hectares are producing sub-optimally due to lack of adequate inputs, insufficient exposure to good agronomic practices and limited access to finance and credit”. He blamed to growing apathy to farming on this subsistent level, as farmers do not see the

importance of insuring their farming activities, adding that currently, Nigeria’s formal financial system is lending about four per cent of all formal credit to the agricultural sector compared to three years ago when only about one per cent of all credits went to the agricultural sector. He argued that all hands must be on deck towards reviving the agricultural sector so as to reduce the overdependence on imported agricultural products to feed the growing Nigerian popuBC lation.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

REGULATORS

NNPC to reappraise 20-year old PSC with IOC’s

he Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, has signified its intention to review the over twenty years contract terms with International Oil Firms operating in the country. Ibe Kachikwu Group Managing Director of the corporation said that the fiscal terms of the existing Production Sharing Contracts, PSC, entered into with the companies will be appraised. Speaking at the France-Nigeria Business Forum, organised to mark the State Visit of President Muhammadu Buhari to Paris, France, Kachikwu noted that the review would seek favourable benefits to Nigeria based on the prevailing realities in the industry. He said some of the contracts were negotiated over 20 years ago. A statement by the NNPC quoted Kachikwu as saying that in the months ahead, the corporation would be renegotiating the contracts to extract as much benefit as possible for the country. He noted that although the PSCs were firm contracts which should be adhered to, the NNPC is allowed to make use of the provision for renegotiation. “We intend to begin the process of the renegotiation of the PSCs to see what value chain and improvements we can have from these contracts. Some of the contracts were negotiated over 20 years ago and they have since been overtaken by new realities in the industry,” he said. BC

L-R: Team Lead, Direct Banking, Ecobank, Cyril Quaye; Country Head, Classic/Direct Banking, Ecobank, Chinedu Ibe; Director, Partnership Coordination, NACA, Emmanuel Alhassan; Vice Chancellor, Kogi State University, Prof. Hassan S. Isah and Head, Personal Banking, Ecobank, Kingsley Umadia at the commissioning of Ecobank- NACA Youth Friendly Centre at Kogi State University, Anyigba

NDIC’s assisted NIPSS research building commissioned

magnificent Directorate of Research building complex that was donated by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, NDIC, to the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru Jos was officially commissioned on Monday by the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo. The Vice-President who was represented by the Director of Administration in his Office, Alhaji Ibrahim Yabani commended the NDIC for identifying with the infrastructural needs of the National Institute through the donation of the office complex. Prof. Osinbajo said that the Federal Government was appreciative of the NDIC’s gesture and asked organisations in both the public and private sectors to emulate the Corporation. He expressed optimism that the building complex would not only provide conducive environment for research but also charge the Institute to apply itself towards formulating

policies that would accelerate socio-economic development in the country. Speaking at the official commissioning of the office complex, the NDIC’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Alh. Umaru Ibrahim said that the Corporation took the bold step to extend its gesture to the institute as part of its corporate social responsibility ,CSR, initiative, which according to him, the NDIC started about ten years ago. He also reiterated the Corporation’s readiness to continue to support educational institutions in order to advance academic standard nationwide. The Director-General of the Institute, Prof. Tijani Mohammed Bande expressed appreciation to the NDIC for responding to the challenge of office accommodation in the institute. Prof. Bande said that the problem of inadequate office space for staff of the Research Directorate compelled the institute to seek for assistance to build the

office complex. While pledging that the complex would be judiciously utilised, Prof. Bande appealed to other corporate organisations and public spirited individuals to support the Institute in infrastructural development. While responding to reporters’ questions at the commissioning

ceremony, the NDIC CEO said that the full implementation of the Treasury Single Account ,TSA, was a signal that the era of arm-chair banking in Nigeria was over, adding that the TSA policy had actually presented banks with an opportunity to diversify their sources of deposit mobilisation. BC

Kachikwu

FAAN partners Kwara to develop agro-perishable cargo sector

he Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN has said that it will partner the Kwara State Government to develop a robust agro-perishable cargo sector in the state and Nigeria as a whole. This is contained in a statement in a statement issued on Friday in Ikeja, Lagos, by the authority’s General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Mr Yakubu Dati. The statement quoted FAAN Director of Cargo Development, Dr Uchenna Ofulue, as saying this in Ilorin when he paid a courtesy visit to Gov. Abdulfatah

Ahmed of Kwara. The statement noted that the initiative, when fully implemented, would attract unprecedented benefits to the state in particular, and Nigeria in general. It enumerated some of the benefits accruable from the initiative as employment opportunities, improved standard of living for farmers and reduced ruralurban migration. According to the statement, others benefits are foreign exchange generation, investment opportunities in logistics services and reduced youth restiveness.

It further said that the federal Government had put in place incentives aimed at creating a conducive environment for the takeoff of this initiative, to encourage investors. In particular, it noted that FAAN had developed and designated 14 airports as cargo airports to enhance seamless movement of agricultural produce both within and outside Nigeria. In his response, Ahmed welcomed the FAAN team and lauded the initiative as one that was capable of adding value to the state and the nation. BC

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Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

UBA: shares surge on half year earnings Johnson Okanlawon

hares of United Bank for Africa, UBA, has been a toast of investors in the last two weeks on the back of its half year results released to the Nigerian Stock Exchange on September 3, 2015. The bank’s half year gross earnings rose 20.8 per cent, while profit after tax increased by 40.0 per cent. The share price of the bank, which stood at N3.30 on September 3, rose to N4.19 on Friday, September 18, 2015, an increase of 26.9 per cent. The share price gained 34 kobo or 8.83 per cent last week, as more investors continued to take position on the bank, making the bank to emerged one of the top ten gainers’ for the week, fairly better than average industry performance. Profitability For the six months ended June 30, 2015, the bank’s profit after tax margin, after deducting the cost of goods sold and all other expenses including income tax expense, rose to 19.2 per cent, from 16.5 per cent, indicating the reason behind rush for its shares, while return on average equity, which shows how much profit each naira of common stockholders’ equity generates, appreciated by 11.7 per cent from 10.24 per cent recorded in the corresponding period of 2014. Further analysis of the bank’s profit showed a gross earnings of N166.9 billion in the review period, from N138.2 billion recorded in the same period of 2014, while profit after tax stood at N31.9 billion in the six months, from N22.9 billion recorded in the 2014 half year. Net interest income stood at N65.7 billion, from N55.2 billion recorded in 2014 half year. Liquidity The bank total assets appreciated 17.6 per cent in the review period to N2.93 trillion, from N2.49 trillion recorded in the same period of 2014, showing the final amount of all gross investments, cash and equivalents, receivables, and other asset. Its net assets stood at N307.6 billion, from N238.7 billion recorded in the same period of 2014. Customers deposit increased toN2.23 billion, from N1.98 billion, in-

dicating a loan to deposit ratio of 52.20 per cent from 45.61 per cent it stood in the six months ended June30, 2014. Analysts forecast The Chief Executive Officer, Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adonri, said the share price appreciation was linked to the positive results and an unexpected interim dividend of 20 kobo per share. “For the bank to come up with an interim dividend of 20 kobo, it means things are getting better for the bank and it is a sign of good things to come in the future,” Adonri said, adding that it also showed that the bank’s expansion into other African countries is paying off. According to financial analysts, the rise in UBA’s share price is an indication of the strong demand for the shares, after the positive results, which analysts at FBN Capital Research said was positive across board. Another investment firm, CSL Stockbrokers, a division of FCMB Bank (UK) Limited,

described the UBA results as impressive, sustaining its buy rating on the stock. By the buy rating, CSL Stockbrokers stated that it expects the stock to outperform the benchmark index over the next 12 months. Afrinvest Securities recommended UBA as one of its two stocks to buy, citing the first half results. Chapel Hill Denham Securities Limited stated that the UBA’s first half results came in better than expectations. All reviews also shared a consensus that the UBA is currently significantly undervalued and its shares hold mouth-watery potential for huge capital gain. CSL Stockbrokers set the bank’s share price target at N7.20, Chapel Hill Denham said the bank’s share price could reach N6.59. Renaissance Capital (RenCap) estimated a price target of N8 while Afrinvest Securities stated a current price target of N6.44, all indicating that the UBA’s shares could be one of the most attractive assets over the next 12 months.

“On the back of these results, we would expect consensus estimates to be revised up. We believe these concerns (about growth and asset quality) about half-year earnings contributed to the sell-off in UBA shares over the past few months,” FBN Capital stated, predicting a strong recovery in the bank’s share price while designating the bank as outperform, referencing analysts’ consensus that UBA’s share will outperform the benchmark. Analysts at Renaissance Capital said UBA’s results outperformed their expectations. “We note that profit before tax growth in the second quarter of 2015 was supported by a decent top-line growth, and a decline in impairment charges, down by 51%,” Rencap stated sustaining its “buy” rating on the UBA stock. Bank’s expectation The Group Managing Director, Mr. Phillips Oduoza said the results showed the resilience of the bank’s business strategy in the face of the challenging operating environment. “Our business strategy has proved to be resilient, balancing prudence, with an ability to significantly grow bottom line and continue to focus on operating effectiveness. We look forward to continuing to support our customers and working with them to achieve financial success for them and the wider Nigerian and African economies,” Oduoza said. He said the bank’s bottomline reflected better extraction of value across all business segments and ongoing process optimization. According to him, it was also satisfying to see the bank’s cost-to-income ratio decline further while the bank has maintained a healthy loan book, a tribute to both its risk management and to the robustness of its clients’ businesses, with non-performing ratio at just 1.8 per cent of total loans granted, one of the lowest in the banking industry. “We understand that many in Nigeria are facing difficult economic circumstances and we are very much shouldering our responsibility to support and grow wealth creation,” Oduoza said. Speaking on the perfor-

mance of the bank’s African subsidiaries, group chief financial officer, UBA, Ugo Nwaghodoh said the bank’s businesses in other African countries have started to significantly impact the group’s returns, contributing 23 per cent of profit after tax, with an even stronger outlook. He said recent initiatives taken by the bank to improve operational efficiencies have been yielding positive results, thus reinforcing optimism on the future of UBA’s African business. The bank had in January this year, indicated that it would use the net proceeds of its rights issue to finance its business development plan aimed at further entrenching the bank as the leading bank in Africa. UBA had in 2013 launched a new business development plan aimed at consolidating the bank’s position as a leading pan-African global financial services group. The three-year business development plan codenamed Project Alpha was designed as the group’s next focus of strategic transformation and it contained key transformation initiatives. Oduoza had said the new business plan was designed to consolidate the group’s strategic positioning and fully capture the opportunities from Africa’s economic renaissance. According to him, Project Alpha is focused on leveraging all aspects of the group’s footprint, product offerings and operational capability, allowing a commitment to customer service transformation, market share growth, the implementation of key ebanking initiatives across all segments, the growth of corporate and trade finance capabilities. He outlined that a critical aspect of the Project Alpha initiative is the focus on UBA Africa, which is projected to contribute about 50 per cent to the group by 2016, adding that Project Alpha will allow the bank to build on the existing strengths of its franchise as well as continue to reinvent ourselves, ensuring it captures and delivers the maximum of value for all stakeholders. To all extent, the first half performance appears to be a clear evidence of the success of the bank’s strategy and the foresights of its management. BC

A24 40

Business Courage

Monday, September 21, 2015

We buy .. We sell.. We manage

LIST OF AVAILABLE PROPERTIES

Making spaces better places.. LAGOS PROPERTIES FOR SALE

ABUJA PROPERTIES FOR SALE Description:

Location: Price: Description: Location : Price: Description : Location: Price: Description : Location: Price: Description : Location: Price: Description :

Location: Price: Description :

Location: Price: Description : Location : Price : Description :

Location : Price : Description : Location: Price:

7 bedroom mansion with 3 sitting rooms, 2 bedroom guest chalet,2 rooms boys quarters, swimming pool, barbecue hut and gate house. TY Danjuma Asokoro, Abuja N 1.2b 4Bedroom detached house with BQ, electric gate , borehole , space for swimming pool.(vacant) Estate directly opposite games villages ,Abuja 150m

Description : Location: Price: Description :

Location: Price:

5 floors office complex with a banking hall building sitting on 9,000sqm Central Business District , Abuja N5.5b (asking)

Description :

Residential land measuring 3000sqm katampe, Abuja N70m

reservoir. Location: Price:

6 Bedroom detached duplex on 2888sqm Ibrahim Abdullahi Crescent off Sowemimo Asokoro , Abuja N550m(asking)

4 bedroom fully detached with all rooms ensuite good security system City scape estate , Wumba Abuja N70m (asking)

duplex and

5 bedroom fully detached with all rooms ensuite swimming pool , 1room BQ pent house . City scape estate , Wumba Abuja N90m (asking)

duplex , and a

District ,

Location: Price:

PORT HARCOURT PROPERTIES FOR SALE Description : on a plot of land

A 2 storey building and a

bungalow

tastefully finished Aluminum curtain walled and serviced purposed built office complex sitting on 5,020 m2 zone 5 Wuse , Abuja N3.5b

Description : Location:

plots of land with C of O Beside Fidelity Bank by Artillery Bus stop, Aba road N160m (asking)

6nos of 3bedrm flats,1no 2bedroom flat(pentfoor),2nos 1bedroom flat (basement) , 2nos 1bedroom sitting on 1,040.50sqm Garki Area 2, Abuja N185m

VARIOUS OFFICE SPACES TO LET 1. NIGERIA -REINSURANCE BUILDING CBD, ABUJAâ&#x20AC;Ś 2. NICON PLAZA, CENTRAL BUSINESS AREA, ABUJA 3. 118/120 Broad street Lagos 4. Marina Lagos 5. F/14 Cathedral Drive Enugu

Description :

6nos of 3bedrm flats,1no Block,2nos Gate House on 1,202.85sqm Wuse II , Abuja N600m

Newly renovated 5 bedroom detached house with B.Q sitting on 1500sqm land G Cappa Estate Maryland N350m (asking)

4 plots of land with C of O Artillery Junction, Aba road N250m (asking)

40 units of 2 Bedroom flat sitting on 7000m2 Along Kubwa express, Abuja. 650m (asking)

Location: Price:

4 bedroom bungalow sitting on 730.8 sqm Ibeju Lekki N26m

Description : Location: Price:

Description :

1 Block of 8 luxury flats 3bedrooms/4bedrooms 2nd Ave. Gowon Estate, Ipaja On Request

3600sqm land . Behind Sheraton Hotel, Abuja N500m (asking)

3 bedroom bungalow with 2 sitting rooms , all rooms ensuite , a gate house and a car porch , sitting on 900sqm Wuse zone 6 , Abuja N120m(asking)

Location: Price:

Description :

Fatai Atere Way, Mushin On Request

Price:

Description : Location: Price:

6 bedroom detached house with 4 spacious living rooms , well finished , swimming pool CCTV surveillance camera,etc. 5th Avenue Gwarimpa , Abuja. 300m

5 bedrooms bungalow Ismail Estate, Maryland On Request

Description :

bays

with C of O Aba road by Isiokpo street , Rumuomasi N120m (asking)

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Monday, September 21, 2015

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Every citizen in this country has a right to go to court and present his case and it must be left to the court to decide he is a mere busy body or not —JUSTICE

Adolphus Karibi-Whyte, retired Justice of the Supreme Court

Demand for SAN award: Oyebode, Agbakoba, others slam legislators

A couple of weeks ago, about 200 lawyers in the Senate and the House of Representatives asked the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee, (LPPC) to consider them for automatic award of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). This demand is generating ripples among stakeholders in the justice administration just as top lawyers flay the lawmakers’ on the issue, writes WALE IGBINTADE.

We need fit and proper people as judges —Okoli 42

NBA suit: How Gani tackled F.R.A. Williams, two other SANs 45

Russian hacker admits data breach charges 46

Chief Richard Akinjide, Chairman, Body of SANs

enators, members of the House of Representatives’ and other members of the legislative houses in the country, who are lawyers, on August 24, renewed their demand to be conferred with the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN. The lawmakers under the auspices of “The Forum of Lawyers in the Nigerian Legislature” made their position known during their inaugural meeting at the National Assembly in Abuja. Beside claiming that they work harder than judicial officers, the lawmakers argued that they were not less qualified for the rank than lawyers in active and other legal practices. Convener of the forum, Senator Ita Enang, while speaking for the group, explained that since the

Senator Enang

The demand for SAN title is a misplaced priority for legislators; I feel people should ignore them as the ranting of those misplaced priorities. lawyers in the legislature participated in passing all the laws used for legal practice in the country, they were qualified for the rank of SAN. Senator Enang, a former Chairman, Senate Committee on Rules and Business, described as an “insult”, insinuations that lawmakers were not qualified to become SANs, while those in practice could be so conferred with the award. “They make laws that the magistrate interprets and makes his way to the Supreme Court. Yet, you

say a lawmaker is not qualified to be honoured with the rank of SAN. The legislator is not qualified but the lawyer who practises the law passed by the legislature is qualified. All the laws that practitioners practise and they are celebrated and honoured are passed by the legislature, but you say that the same legislator is not qualified to be a SAN,’’ he said. He argued that ‘’legislative practice is an arm of legal practice and should be recognised as such and that it is the legislators that know

the laws more than the practitioners because they draft the laws.’’ It should be noted that the award of the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) is a privilege accorded as a mark of excellence to members of the legal profession, who are in full time legal practice, have distinguished themselves as advocates and have made significant contributions to the development of the legal profession’’. Besides, applicants for the title must be legal practitioners called to the Bar and practising in Nigeria as an advocate and must have been in active current legal practice and have been so for at least 10 years immediately preceding the date of application. Consequently, the request of the lawmakers has generated CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

Law & Justice

Monday, September 21, 2015

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We need fit and proper Chijioke Okoli, a former Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos branch, has 27 years’ post-call experience. In this interview with WALE IGBINTADE, the ex-bar leader speaks on the legality of the Stamp and Seal scheme and the appointment of judges in the country, among other issues. Excerpts:

As a former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos branch, what are the legacies you left behind at the bar? If you talk about legacies, I think the question would be best answered by some informed members because if I go on about the legacies there could be some elements of accusation or self -praise but, I would tell you that the most lasting things more often than not, are things that you cannot feel or touch, those things will not be destroyed. As the Chairman of the Bar I promised that I would take the Premier Bar to the next level and with all due deference to modesty, I did that splendidly. Because, it was clear in my mind what I was going there to do, I wasn’t a run- of - the- mill candidate so to speak. If you followed the debate prior to the election, the thinking was that I was something of an outsider even though I was a member of the Exco but I was not seen as a professional Bar politician who has spent years holding different offices. What was the state of affairs you met on the ground? When you come for meeting, you will see scanty crowd; meanwhile we say we have by far the largest number of members. So what I did was that I challenged and inspired membership particularly those members of big commercial law firms where you have the large clusters of lawyers who thought that participation in Bar activity was just a waste of time for those lawyers who didn’t have much doing which is a very erroneous view. Because, I also had a commercial law background, it was relatively feasible for me to get them to understand that you can’t sit in your office and say that those people don’t know what they are doing because whatever decision that is taken there would bind you. When I came in, I raised the membership capacity tremendously. I got so many people who never bothered to come for meetings to start coming to meetings. You cannot talk of any legacy or capacity when the members totally ignored the organisation. We built capacity in terms of human rights and then we got very serious and committed lawyers to come in and assist. Who are these lawyers? We had somebody like Abiodun Owonikoko, SAN putting his money in the Human Right Committee. Fabian Ajogwu, SAN was heading the Continuing Legal Education and we were doing wonderfully well. For the first time at that stage we had senior advocates heading subcommittees without minding that the NBA Chairman is not a SAN. A lot of senior advocates, credit to them, were doing things and they did it with passion. Whenever Judges are to be appointed the

Okoli

Under the Rules of Professional Conduct, pursuant to Legal Practitioners’ Act, you will find out the Stamp and Seal scheme has legal backing. list is sent to the Chairmen of the branches to comment but for me, it wasn’t personal. What I did in my time was to set a benchmark which people would look at with objectivity. When the list of those to be made Judges came, before then I had set up a committee, which we called the Judiciary Committee of the NBA, Lagos branch headed by Mr. Wale Akoni, SAN, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN was the alternate Chairman. I had a committee of people who I could not even influence to do their job. I set up structures that were not personalised and that was unprecedented. The committee was undoubtedly some of the Lagos finest practitioners. As chairman of the Bar, I said the two years was too short for anybody to start looking for who supported him and who did not, I brought everybody including known opponent because everybody has something to offer. I came into office, Lagos was hosting the Annual General Conference of the Bar after so many years and inspite of so much

opposition from others who said Lagos is in perpetual log jam, I make bold to say that the members of the Bar who came for the Annual General Conference in Lagos in 2009 didn’t want to go. In fact, after that many of them said they were looking forward to next time Lagos will host it. We must mention accountability. As NBA Lagos branch, a whole lot of invitations I honoured was not because I am so rich as a lawyer but, I like to think that I am rich in terms of integrity. I was travelling to places with my money; you can ask the treasurer and members. Indeed, when we were leaving, the late Eze Obi, SAN said it is good what Mr. Okoli has done but let us not make it a practice because if somebody is serving the branch, the expenditure he bore should reimbursed by the branch. I borne both my hotel and fare details. One things my harshest critics would tell you is that I ran such an accountable open system and I was able to raise the largest

sums of money left behind by any Chairman, I left close to N30 million. I told my committee they had to be prudent in running affairs whenever money that belongs to others was in their care. Did you face any challenge from your colleagues? Yes, my very good friend and our uncle, Pa Gomez turned round, the thing that was supposed to be a big accomplishment for me. He said ‘’you’re handing chairmanship of committees to senior advocates’’ but, there was a method to that. Most committees needed money to function properly so I picked up lawyers who were successful and committed to run these committees so that they would not come back to say Mr. Okoli left a huge debt when he was leaving office. I got people spending money but I also made sure the debit side reduced. Fabian Ajogwu SAN spent over N1million running Continuing Legal Education, we had Wale Akoni, SAN running his own committee too. Apart from all the financial inputs, we employed a Youth Corp member, the salary was on Mr. Abiodun Owonikoko, SAN. They all helped us with their own money. If I had given these committees to be run by some other people, the truth of the matter is academic now whether these people would have made success than these other people did but, one thing for sure is that it would also have cost us more money.

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Monday, September 21, 2015

persons as judges —Okoli How do you see the introduction of Stamp and Seal for Nigerian lawyers? Well, the scheme is working and it is legal with all due deference to the body of senior advocates. Under the Rules of Professional Conduct, pursuant to Legal Practitioners’ Act, you will find out it has legal backing. But, apart from it having a legal backing, it is a sure way of checking activities of quacks and we have so many of them who have integrated themselves into the system. Like the one found in one of the branches in the South West, she went on to hold a position. With the stamp and seal your name will be verified, you will show your certificate and they now go to the Supreme Court where the list of everybody’s names are kept. Those stamps come with individual enrolment number so, to a certain degree it’s foolproof. It’s a step in the right direction, its long overdue and credit must go to the present NBA President, Austin Alegeh SAN. He has done quite a lot; the stamp introduced is a major credit to him when we talk about his own legacy. Are you comfortable with this mode of appointment of judges, considering the overbearing attitude of some governors? For me, you can’t really rule out the participation of the executive. The issue for me is to ensure that the individuals who are appointed Judges are fit and proper people. Who says the governor cannot appoint fit and proper people to be Judges? Administration of justice is the number one social infrastructure, people are talking about roads being built and every other thing; but those things can be damaged overnight. If you’re able to build a proper ethos, way of life and you cannot have a sustainable ethos, a sustainable system that is not founded on the administration of justice to that extent the executive ought to see that the administration of justice perform optimally and you cannot talk about optimal performance of the administration of justice without the

personnel. In Nigeria, we are talking about economic diversification and we are clueless. I ask you, when last did you pick anything, big or small and you see made in Britain on it? It’s either China or any other place but Britain is a top economy. It is running on services and one of the biggest inflows of money is the administration of justice in England. Yes, because they have built such a system that has earned the trust of the whole world, a lot of arbitration, even some people when they are doing international contract and no British party is involved they would tell you that in the event of a conflict that English law will apply. In the event of a conflict they will go and do arbitration in London, we haven’t sat down to think about it. You can’t talk about business without talking about administration of justice because there will be commercial dispute and this dispute will be resolved by court. So, if a governor decides to have substandard people to be Judges then people will run away from that place. It’s not that the governors will just hand pick anybody, there is a process. Each state has its own Judicial Service Commission, there’s a scrutinising process including asking members of the Bar for their views. There have been cases where the Bar made an issue of some particular appointees. Appointment of a person to the position of a Judge shall be made by the governor of the state and with the recommendation of the National Judicial Council. So, you now have intermediation of the National Judicial Council even though the judiciary is to a certain degree unitary. Under the 1979 constitution, it wasn’t like that, the state Judicial Service Commission will deal with appointment of Judges, if you are now appointing a Federal Judge like a Federal High Court Judge or Court of Appeal or Supreme Court. We now have a situation where the High Court Judge cannot be appointed unless you are cleared by the NJC. There are some checks and balances but I would not go into how that is offensive to our purported federalism that is peculiar.

Okoli

The issue of a judge coming directly to make an allegation is uncommon if not strange because by the nature of their work judges are seen, not heard in public. Do you think Justice Oloyede Olamide Folahanmi should be disciplined for writing petition against Osun state governor, Rauf Aregbesola and his deputy? I must tread carefully, it’s in the public domain but, I do not know the exact specifics. So, whatever I would say is tentative. I would say the issue of a judge coming directly to make that allegation is uncommon if not strange because by the nature of their work judges are seen, not heard in public. It’s some of this consideration that made some of us say we don’t want to be judges. The views of the judges, yes, are almost entirely to be distilled from their judgments. It is usually when a case comes before you, for instance, a case comes up before a judge and maybe it’s a criminal matter, somebody has been charged with theft and in the allocutus after the person has been convicted, the defence counsel will plead an insinuating circumstances the Judge should take into consideration before pronouncing judgment. The person may say:” I am supposed to be a worker but my parents have been out of job or they have a job but they’ve not been paid salaries for six months.” Depending on the mindset, a judge could now criticise the system or maybe the government that he can’t understand why people would go to work for six months and they are not being paid but it comes within that confinement of a judgment. It was Justice Eso in the election petition of Onoh and Nwobodo that the Supreme Court particularly, Eso took time to tonguelash Bishop Eyitene who was the Commissioner of Police in the old Anambra state. He was alleged, and Eso found sufficient grounds to believe that he was more or less an agent of the NPN who committed may-

hem. Though he wasn’t before the court but from the evidence led by the parties that what the police did in Anambra state under the control of Commissioner of Police, Bishop Eyitene, the Supreme Court thoroughly tongue-lashed him and when Buhari and Idiagbon came in, it was based on that judgment that he was one of the first people that were sacked. The Supreme Court Justices were not writing petitions to the Senate or to anybody, obviously, they waited for an opportunity in a case before them to now do that. To that extent, I don’t know the whole details but a judge writing a petition against a government official on a public matter is unusual. Whether that is now enough to say the judge should be dismissed from service is another thing altogether because we are dealing with a philosophical issue. Judges usually don’t say much even where the condition of service of the judiciary is not the best but, you won’t hear the judges complain so much. If a judge is making statement criticising on a number of things, if a case comes before that judge, the government would now say no, you are biased because I know what your views are. It’s not a particularly palatable situation where a case comes up and parties are now saying no, I think this judge is biased but a party can have the proper cause to say you’re biased when you’ve gone public in criticising that person. Again, I don’t know the veracity of those allegations; it’s a serious issue if they found out that those allegations are not factual. I don’t know the judge, I am not from Osun State but I find it a bit unsettling because it has the tendency to bring the administration of justice to disrepute.

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Monday, September 21, 2015

‘Law-making not criteria fot title conferment, unless...’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41 heated debate among Nigerians and legal practitioners in particular. In an interview granted to an online news medium, the former Vice-Chancellor, Ekiti State University, Prof Akin Oyebode described the demand for SAN title as a misplaced priority for legislators, say ‘’it is against nuclear responsibility expected of members of the National Assembly’’. According to him, or legislators to the demand for SAN title was a joke carried too far. ‘The demand for SAN title is a misplaced priority for legislators; I feel people should ignore them as the ranting of those misplaced priorities”. He said. Aligning with the scholar, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba SAN bluntly declared that that the lawmakers did not meet the criteria hence they were not entitled to be conferred with the prestigious title. For instance, do they go to court? Do they have the required number of cases to qualify? But for just to say I am a lawmaker and I am qualified is not enough’’. In his view, Mr. Olu Daramola, SAN said ‘’ It is a laughable proposition. Engaging in law making has nothing to do with the practice of law. You do not need a law qualification to become a law maker. If a lawyer in the National Assembly is entitled to be conferred with the rank of a senior advocate because he is engaged in the business of law making, his colleagues who are not lawyers are also entitled to claim the rank because they are also engaged in the same business of law making’’. In his opinion, Mr. Norrison Quakers, SAN said ‘’the first question is, what is the scope of their work? By the provision of Section 4 of the constitution, the legislature is responsible for law- making and not advocacy’’. He pointed out that legal practice is different from legislative functions adding that only lawyers who are in legal practice are the ones being conferred with the rank of SAN. He added that the Legal Practitioners’ Act being a product of the National Assembly

Agbakoba

Agbaje

Quakers

’The demand of the lawmakers is out of place, it is nonsensical and improper. If they want the rank they should go by the rules, if they had applied for it as lawyers and

were refused, they should not attempt to get it through the back door.

clearly defined those to be conferred with the title of senior Advocate and it has to be those who have improved legal practice in term of advocacy. ‘’There is no legitimacy for the conferment of the rank on legislators. It is not done anywhere in the world; not even in England where we borrowed it from. There are criteria before an applicant could be conferred such as; how many cases have you done? What is the scope of your law firm among others? You now have those in academic who are rated based on the books they have written that are reference materials, these are professors of law who have distinguished

Bar

Jokes

You’re late

The lawyer wandered home at 3 AM. His wife became very upset, telling him, so. The lawyer replied, “I’m right on time. I said I’d be home by a quarter of twelve.”

My honest opinion Lawyer: “Let me give you my honest opinion.” Client: “No, no. I’m paying for professional advice.”

The parked BMW A lawyer returns to his parked BMW to find the headlights broken and other considerable damages. There’s no sign of the offending vehicle but he’s relieved to see that there’s a note stuck under the windshield wiper. “Sorry. I just backed into your Beemer. The witnesses who saw the accident are nodding and smiling at me because they think I’m leaving my name, address and other particulars. But I’m not.”

The offence was committed by his limb A lawyer defending a man accused of burglary

themselves’’. ‘’So, to me the demand of the lawmakers is out of place, it is non-sensical and it improper. If they want the rank they should go by the rules, if they have applied for it as lawyers and were refused, they should not attempt to get it through the back door’’. Mr. Fred Agbaje said ‘’ they are legislative jokers. Have they finished legislations, particularly laws that will benefit Nigerians? Have they made laws that will advance political economy of this great nation? How far have they been able to execute perfectly their oversight function in reducing crime in the society and in reducing the rate of

tried this creative defense: “My client merely inserted his arm into the window and removed a few trifling articles. His arm is not himself, and I fail to see how you can punish the whole individual for an offence committed by his limb.” “Well put,” the judge replied. “Using your logic, I sentence the defendant’s arm to one year’s imprisonment. He can accompany it or not, as he chooses.” The defendant smiled. With his lawyer’s assistance he detached his artificial limb, laid it on the bench, and walked out.

You lawyers are so materialistic One day, there was this lawyer who had just bought a new car, and he was eager to show it off to his colleagues, when all of a sudden an 18 wheeler came out of nowhere and took of the driver’s side door with him standing right there. “NOOO!” he screamed, because he knew that no matter how good a mechanic tried to fix it, it never would be the same. Finally, a cop came by, and the lawyer ran up to him yelling. “MY JAGUAR DOOR WAS JUST RUINED BY SOME FOOLISH DRIVER!!!” he exclaimed. “You’re a lawyer aren’t you?” asked the policeman. “Yes, I am, but what does this have to do with my car?!?!” the lawyer asked. “HA! You lawyers are always so materialistic. All you care about is your possessions. Culled from Best Lawyers’ jokes.com

zzzz

unemployment? They now begin to clamour to be given the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria. ‘’Even by their own admission, they have failed to qualify for the title otherwise tomorrow carpenters will also come out to say they are entitled to it. Going by their own assertion that they are making law, the question they should ask themselves is that. They should concentrate on why they were elected. Another lawyer, Mr. Ojo Akinwale said ‘’ we all know that being a senior advocate is a dream of every lawyer engaged in advocacy. But, to take it to a political realm will bastardise the whole objective of the exercise. ‘’ It will be adding insult into injury if we extend the rank to the lawmakers just because they are members of the legislative arm of government. The lawmakers already have the title of honourable; they should be contended with that. However, they can go to their villages and asked to be given chieftaincy titles but to say because they are members of the legislature they should be given the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria would be a process of absurdity. ‘’ he declared.

legal tips

Evidence of a witness The Law of Evidence deals with the facts relating to a matter presented to a court or judicial tribunal. The person who is summoned or invited by the court to give the evidence is called a witness.

Bar

Types of Evidence

also indirect evidence, which is inferred by the court from the facts in issue. * Oral Evidence is the testimony of a witness usually on oath given by his word of mouth in the witness box. *Documentary evidence is the evidence derived by court from the contents of some documents such as books, records, photographs and video clips produced before it. *Real Evidence is derived from inspection of physical objects such as a place of accident, person, or thing. Written by Francis Famoroti, Head, Judiciary. We welcome feedback and reactions from readers via our e-mail: nationamirrorlaw@yahoo.com

Jokes

*Direct Evidence is also known as the ‘’original’’ type or testimony concerning a fact actually perceived by a witness with one of his senses. *Hearsay Evidence or second -hand evidence pertains to fact or information given to a witness by some other person but proved by him in court. He tells the court what some other persons had told him. Note that hearsay evidence may not be generally admissible in some cases because of the rules against it. *Circumstantial evidence is

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Monday, Septembe 21, 2015

FAMOUS CASES

ate fiery lawyer, Gani Fawehinmi was always excited during his lifetime to lock horns in legal battle with those who have attained the peak of the legal profession, especially the Senior Advocates of Nigeria. Far back forty six years ago when he began his legal practice, the deceased activist had had cause to appear in a number of celebrated cases in the country. He had also exhibited his legal wits during occasional encounters in the courts with many erudite lawyers in the country. Indeed, the late controversial lawyer had a memorable legal battle with the late doyen of the Bar, Chief F.R.A Williams and two other SANs, late Mr. Kehinde Sofola and late Chief E.A Molajo, over the constitutionality of the NBA directive. This epochal case in which the legal titans clashed is known as Gani Fawehinmi .v. NBA (1). In this case, Fawehinmi had dragged the NBA to court in 1984 over the association’s decision directing lawyers to boycott the SMTs established by the military regime. To the Ondo-born late activist, he had a constitutional duty to his client. As a result, he shunned the NBA’s order and appeared for his client, Col. Peter Obasa (rtd), a former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), then standing trial before the tribunal. Distinctly defiant, the late activist subsequently instituted an action against the NBA, the General Council of the Bar (GCB) and three elders of the Bar including, Williams. Specifically, Fawehinmi had asked the court to determine whether his appearance before the SMT Lagos zone was legally and professionally justifiable within the context of the 1979 Constitution as affected by Decree No 1 of 1984, the LPC 1975 and the rules of professional conduct in the legal profession made by the GCB. He also prayed the court to declare that the decision of the NBA taken at its NEC meeting in April 1984 and ratified and at an emergency meeting on May 8, 1984 in Lagos that its members must not appear before the SMTs established under Decree No 3 of 1984 was unconstitutional, illegal, null and void. Fawehinmi’s famous bravery was traceable to his paternal forebears, particularly his late grandfather, late Lisa Alujonnu (invisible spirit), who was said to have been loved by the Ondo people because of his courage, acclaimed bravery and steadfastness. At the hearing of the case, Fawehinmi represented himself while Williams led Sofola and Molajo for the NBA and the GCB. Indeed, “Timi the Law” as Williams was fondly called demonstrated an impassioned zeal for the legal profession at the time while Fawehinmi equally exhibited his legal wits and crusading spirit as an activist lawyer. It was usually a dramatic session on each hearing date during the 1984 case. At every proceedings that Fawehinmi and Williams appeared against each other and the latter

The late Chief Williams

The late Chief Fawehinmi

NBA suit: How Gani tackled F.R.A. Williams, two other SANs Thirty-one years ago, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) at its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Jos in April 1984 barred its members from appearing before the Special Military Tribunals (SMTs). In his display of revolutionary spirit, Lagos lawyer, the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, defied this directive and challenged the legality of NBA’s decision at a Lagos High Court. FRANCIS FAMOROTI, Head, Judiciary, highlights the exciting aspects of the legal duel.

Fawehinmi had asked the court to determine whether his appearance before the SMT Lagos zone was legally and professionally justifiable. cited foreign authorities, Fawehinmi would urge him to stop the circuitous voyage round the globe when there were enough authorities of the Supreme Court of Nigeria that could be used. To borrow the late activist’s words, which he often said in court “My Lord, my learned friend has embarked on a voyage of discovery. There is no need going to Australia, India and United Kingdom in search of legal authorities, we have the authorities here that can be cited.” By the time Fawehinmi rounded up his submission in his finesse, Williams would chip in and seek the attention of the judges “We know he is not talking to your Lordship. He’s talking to his friends (pointing to the press gallery)”. Williams would often say Fawehinmi was fond of making speeches that might make headlines for tabloids. Sofola too would jokingly align with foremost lawyer’s position. Interestingly, Fawehinmi at a point had to ask the court to restrain Williams, Sofola and Molajo from representing the NBA on the ground that their appearance for the association was improper, unprofessional, dishonourable and dishonest. The then Lagos Chief Judge, Justice Candide Ademola Johnson on July 19, 1985, apparently granted Fawehinmi’s application for an injunction restraining the three SANs from appearing for themselves.

The SANs appealed against the ruling to the Court of Appeal and the Appellate Court on March 13, 1986 allowed the appeal and set aside the order of injunction. The panel of appellate court were, Justices Phillip Nnaemeka-Agu, Idris Kutigi and Kolawole. The appeal court affirmed that the NBA was not a juristic person and as such could not be sued legally in its name. It then struck out the action. Being a lawyer, who would not easily give up the legal battle, Fawehinmi headed for the Supreme Court. Waxing truculent, he argued in his appeal that the role played by the three SANs was against the spirit of the Rules of Professional Conduct in the legal profession. He submitted that Williams could not appear for the NBA while Sofola also could not appear for Williams and Molajo. Williams had submitted that the issues formulated by Fawehinmi were merely academic. Stating that Fawehinmi’s arguments were misconceived, he urged the court to hold that three leading lawyers were entitled to address the court in their capacities as legal practitioners briefed to represent the respondents. Sofola lent his voice that he saw nothing embarrassing or contrary to all known canons of administering justice for a legal practitioner to address the court on behalf

of himself from the bar. Friday, the 14th day of April 1989 was the judgement date before their Lordships of the Supreme Court. The unanimous lead judgement was read by Justice Andrews Otutu Obaseki. Other justices on the panel included, Adolphus Karibi-Whyte, Saidu Kawu, Chukwudifu Oputa, and Abdulganiyu Agbaje. According to Obaseki, “the issue raised before us is whether learned SANs should be allowed to appear on behalf of the NBA, from the Bar, and robed, rather than from the well of the court, and without their wigs and gowns, since they also are parties to the appeal. The appellant has failed to point to any rules of professional etiquette that would affect their duty as counsel to the court or bring the appearance of learned SANs from the bar in conflict.” Justice Obaseki declared that ‘’It has not been shown that the conduct of 2nd, 3rd and 4th Respondents is or will be prejudicial to the interest of justice. A legal practitioner cannot be deprived of his rights and privileges by a mere allegation that he is a party when there is no claim or cause of action against him or a proved allegation of infamous conduct in a professional respect. It was for the reasons stated above that I overruled the objection and called on Chief F. R. A. Williams, S.A.N. and Kehinde Sofola, S.A.N. to address the Court as counsel in reply to the arguments of Chief Gani Fawehinmi in the appeal. I do not consider it inequitable in a civil case for him to remain at the Bar with his robes or even when he is the litigant. I dismiss the appellant’s objection.”

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Monday, September 21 2015,

Moral and legal issues in publication of debtors’ list Oluwatobi Akinpelu

egulation of banking activities is a germane responsibility of the Central Bank of Nigeria that cannot be domiciled with any other institution. The regulatory power of the Central Bank of Nigeria is derived principally from the Central Bank Act (CBN Act) and Banks and Other Financial Institution Act (BOFI Act). It is in view of these conferred powers that the Central Bank of Nigeria directed all commercial banks to publish the names of persons indebted to them and the various sums being owned by those several individuals. This instructions having been complied with by commercial banks has exposed some Nigerians, especially as regards the state of their financial standing. However laudable the idea of the publication may be, it would be extigent to consider the powers of the Central Bank of Nigeria viz a viz the stautory and judicial duty of confidentiality imposed on the banks and also the constitutional rights of the debtors as enshrined in the Chapter 4 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Central Bank of Nigeria is empowered by the various provisions of the CBN Act to regulate and supervise the activities of commercial banks in Nigeria. Section 44 (a) CBN Act 2007 provides that there shall be a Committee for the co-ordination and supervision of financial institutions in Nigeria. This provision has placed the direct supervision of banks and other financial institutions under the purview of the Central Bank of Nigeria. The supervision of the banks is to promote and maintain adequate and reasonable financial service for the public; as well as ensure high standards of conduct and management throughout the banking system. The powers of the Central Bank of Nigeria in regulating and supervising commercial banks seems unfettered as the Act provides an incidental clause to enable the Central Bank of Nigeria discharge its functions as prescribed according to law. Section 32 (1) CBN Act provides that “the Bank may, subject as is expressly provided in this Act generally conduct business as a bank, and do all such things as are incidental to or consequential upon the exercise of its power or the discharge of its duties under this Act” . It would therefore be right for the

the

English Court of Appeal

held that confidentiality was an implied term in the

customer’s contract and that any breach could give rise to liability in damages Central Bank of Nigeria to make regulations and guidelines that would ensure that the objectives of the Act are fully accomplished. This directive must be obeyed by all financial institutions and any financial institution which fails to comply with such directive is at risk of sanctions from the Central Bank of Nigeria. In ensuring that the Central Bank of Nigeria is properly backed up through the instrumentality of law, the federal legislature has passed the Banks and Other Financial Institution Act (BOFI Act). The various provsion of the BOFI Act gives wide powers to the Central Bank of Nigeria to regulate the activities of banks and financial instutions in Nigeria. The power includes but not limited to issuance and revocation of licenses should there be a breach of the law or any regulation by any bank or financial instution, section 3 & 8 BOFI Act. Section 57 BOFI Act empowers the Governor to make regulations to give full effect to the objects and objectives of the Act, it provides as follows, (1) The Governor may make regulations, published in the Gazette, to give full effect to the objects and objectives of this Act. (2) Without prejudice to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, the Governor may make rules and regulations for the operation and control of all institutions under the supervision of the Bank. In light of the above provisions, the Central Bank of Nigeria is solely responsible for the supervision of banks and financial instutions in Nigeria, subject to the overall supervision of the supervising minister. The incidental power of the Central Bank of Nigeria is sufficient for legal protection as regards its directive to all banks to publish the names of debtors. It would therefore be right on the face value for the banks to obey the directive of the Central Bank of Nigeria. However, since the CBN Act and BOFI Act are not the only legislation

governing conducts of citizens and institutions in Nigeria, it would be pertinent that other laws should read in consonance with the CBN Act and the BOFI Act. The Nigerian legal system is anchored on the doctrines of English Common Law and legal tradition as a result of colonization and of reception of English law through the legal transplant. The doctrines of common law form a substantial part of the received English Law in Nigeria and this received English Law are part of our legal and judicial system. Received English Law comprises of Doctrines of Common Law, Doctrines of Equity, and Statutes of General Application. Section 45(1) Interpretation Act provides that, “the common law of England and the doctrines of equity and the statues of general application which were in force in England on 1st January, 1900 are applicable in Nigeria, only in so far as local jurisdiction and circumstances shall permit” It would be right from the interpretation of Sec. 45 Interpretation Act to state that the doctrines of common law as part of our laws would impose a duty of confidentiality upon a banker to its customers. The duty of confidentiality was first brought to fore in the case of Tournier v National Provincial and Union Bank of England [1924] 1 KB 461 where a bank disclosed to its customer’s employer that one of the customer’s unpaid cheques was drawn in favour of a bookmaker’s account. As a result of this disclosure, the customer’s employer did not renew his contract with the customer. In arriving at a decision, the English Court of Appeal held that confidentiality was an implied term in the customer’s contract and that any breach could give rise to liability in damages if loss results. This duty is not however exclusive and without qualification, the dutyof confidentiality can be dispensed with when required by law, public duty, bank’s interest or in circumstances where the client has consented even if impliedly to such disclosure. The provision of exemptions from this duty cannot be a basis to act in an unrestricted manner, as the exemptions are not to be used vaguely but in regards to facts. In interpretating situations where the exemptions can be applied it would best serve the interest of the justice to apply the purposive approach rule of interpretation. Akinpelu, a Lawyer writes from Lagos TO BE CONTINUED NEXT WEEK

EVENTS

Plateau State Governor, Mr. Simon Bako Lalong and his wife at the thanksgiving service to mark his 100 days in office in Jos, recently.

President Muhammadu Buhari and NBA President, Mr. Augustine Alegeh, during the 2015 NBA Annual General Conference in Abuja, recently.

L-R: Chief Registrar, Plateau State High Court, Mr. Silas J. Bakfur; Mr. Jonathan Mawiyau, ViceChancellor, University of Jos, and Prof. Hayward Mafuyai and his wife, Kyempiya, at the event

L-R: Tunde, son of late the NBA former General Secretary, Chief Segun Onakoya, widow, Mrs. Rosemary Onakoya; NBA Publicity Secretary, Mr. Gbolahan Gbadamosi and former Chairman, NBA Lagos branch, Mr. Taiwo Taiwo.

Monday, September 21, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Community Mirror Hunger is the main problem of our IDPs whose communities have been destroyed by Boko Haram insurgents, we must do all we can to alleviate their suffering and give them a new lease of life. –Governor of Borno State, Kashim Shettima

NGO seeks assistance for elderly persons

L-R: Ace Nigerian film producer and actor, Mr Kunle Afolayan; Managing Director/CEO, Bank of Industry (BoI), Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa and Divisional Director, Large Scale Enterprises, Mr Joseph Babatunde, during the visit of BoI team to watch and give on-the-spot assessment of Kunle Afolayan’s CEO, a film funded by BoI Entertainment Fund, in Lagos, at the weekend.

Oron youths seek upgrade of maritime school Dare Akogun

ssu Nlap Oro Development Organisation (Supreme Council of Oron Youths) and Akwa-Ibom Youth Council have made a case for the upgrade of Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, to a degree-awarding institution without delay. The group commended President Muhammadu Buhari for reappointing Dr. Joshua Okpo, Rector of the

academy, for a second term of four years, noting that the reappointment was a step in the right direction. Speaking with journalists in Lagos, President of Akwa Ibom Youth Council, Mr. Gabriel Thompson, and Mr. Ulap Chris Ebiefe-Ante, jointly urged the Federal Government to ignore calls by some people to turn the academy to a university, as this would defeat the main essence of establishing the institution. Ebiefe-Ante recalled that the Academy established

in 1979 was solely to train middle level manpower and seafarers for the maritime sector. “Oron people want the president to help see to it that the institution is upgraded to a degree-awarding institution as obtains in the Nigerian Defence Academy, NDA, which is created solely for the training of men and officers of the military,” he said. On reappointment of the Rector for a second term, the group stated that the action of the president clearly

Octogenarian, 2 others docked over alleged burglary Olanrewaju Olatunbosun

n 86-year-old man, Ebenize Okpara, and two others were yesterday arraigned before an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court over alleged burglary and stealing of properties worth N1.5 million. Other defendants are Joseph Akuwugwu, 38, and Kenneth Ukaegbu, 33; they are facing a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, burglary and stealing preferred against them by the police. The defendants, who are security guards, reside at 10, Owurinikotun Ijegun, 6, Okerin Street, Oworo, and 13, Femi Pears, Victoria Is-

land, respectively. The prosecutor, Sergeant Esther Adesulu, told the court that the defendants and others still at large, committed the alleged offences between 28 and 29 August, 2015. She said the incident took place at about 10:55pm at 9, Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. Adesulu told the court that the defendants broke and entered the residence of one Ademola Edu and stole his electronics and phones worth the sum above. She alleged that the defendants stole the following: a Samsung 3D Flat Screen 55 inches television valued at N650,000, LG 47 inches

valued at N70,000, Ipad, valued at N65,000, LG 47 inches flat screen television worth N220,000, two Ipad phones valued at N70,000 each and one Ipod worth N65,000, all belonging to the complaint. According to the prosecutor the offences committed are punishable under sections 409, 285 (1) and 305 (c) of the criminal law of Lagos State 2011. However, the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges against them. Consequently Magistrate F. F George granted them bail in the sum of N100, 000 each with two sureties each in like sum. The matter was further adjourned till October 22 for mention.

shows he is leader that rewards excellence. He said, “We commend President Muhammadu Buhari for his boldness, courage and patriotism in re-appointing this high performing public officer. It has demonstrated that President Buhari is a leader who rewards excellence. “The re-appointment of Joshua Okpo is meritorious and well deserved because in the past four years, Mr. Okpo has done very well in rejuvenating the academy and positioning it to a degree awarding institution”, he added He urged various groups writing unsubstantial petition against the rector to desist from such and allow him to focus on the duties that will benefit the academy and the nation as a whole. “We are hoping that by the end of his second tenure the academy would have been taken to an international standard with numerous infrastructural and acquisition of simulators for both Deck and Engine Departments in line with Manila Amendments,” he affirmed. He equally charges the Rector to continue with the good work, ensuring excellence and professionalism as the character for his remaining tenure in the Maritime Academy.

n NGO, Vanguard for Better Living, has urged government to look into the plight of elderly persons, especially poor ones in the country. Mr Samson Olaide, Coordinator of the organisation, made the call on Thursday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at Ido in Ido/Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State. Olaide noted that some aged persons lived in abject poverty, adding that such people could die before their time, if not attended to. He suggested that payment of monthly stipends by government to genuine aged people, with no political undertone, would go a long way in helping them. The coordinator condemned the attitude of some people in the society towards aged people, saying that any bad treatment meted out to elderly ones could easily facilitate their death. He, however, observed

that irresponsible parenthood accounted for the neglect of some elderly people in the society. “Some parents, while in their youth, neglected their responsibility to take care of their children, so in their old age, their children also leave them to suffer.” Olaide, however, appealed to people with such parents not to repay evil with evil; he rather encouraged them to take care of their parents and treat them with dignity. “Elderly people need our love and affection; let us show much appreciation by nurturing them with great love and care. “A good number of aged people had struggled through life and need not be victimised, but shown love and care so that they can die peacefully with joy in their hearts. “We should not wait to throw a huge funeral when they die; that would be meaningless, let us appreciate them while they are still alive,” he said.

Kidnapping: CSO calls for partnership with royal fathers

Civil Society Organisation (CSO) in Rivers State on Thursday said the only way to contend with the recent increase in kidnapping was partnership between security agencies and traditional rulers. Mrs Christie Iweozor, Secretary, Rivers State chapter of the CSO, said this while reacting to the rise in crime in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Port Harcourt. Iweozor noted that kidnapping and other security challenges would not be managed well without involvement of the traditional institution. ‘’These youths that engage in kidnapping are from villages and com-

munities. And these communities have traditional rulers. ‘’Traditional rulers have a big role to play in the war against kidnapping, so it is imperative for government to engage them,’’ she said. The CSO scribe called for immediate re-orientation of the youths, adding that a re-orientation in the value system was imperative. Iweozor explained that security of lives and property was key to the economic and political stability of every state. According to her, kidnapping should be totally condemned, adding that every hand must be on deck to reduce it in our society.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Monday, September 21, 2015

Cop kills siblings with armoured vehicle in Osun Boladale Bamigbola OSOGBO

policeman driving an Armoured Personnel Carrier, APC, yesterday killed two children of the same parents in Egbedi area of Ilesa West Local Government Area of Osun State. Some residents of the area, who spoke with National Mirror on phone Sunday evening,

said the policeman who drove the APC was allegedly drunk when the accident happened. The deceased, 5-yearold Sade, and her sister, Anu, said to be 3-yearold, it was further learnt, were playing in front of their father’s house when the vehicle hit and killed them on the spot, while the policeman drove away. An eyewitness, who preferred not to be named, further ex-

plained: “As the policeman started to escape, some commercial motorcyclists chased but could not catch up with him and he escaped towards Osu Road and ran away with the APC.” Father of the deceased, whose names could not be confirmed at the time of filing this report, was away to farm when the incident happened. Upon arrival, he was said to have gone to the police station, but failed

to secure the release of his children’s corpses, even with the assistance of his lawyer. He was said to have pleaded with the mob to remain calm for the matter to be resolved. Miffed by the development, the angry mob later laid siege to the nearest police station, ‘A’ Division Police Station, Ayeso, Ilesa, and vandalised operational vehicles parked within the premises and personal belong-

Tanker drivers to FG: Reconstruct deplorable roads

embers of Petroleum Tanker Drivers, PTD, branch of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, yesterday decried the deplorable state of the nation’s highways. PTD National Chairman, Mr Salimon Oladiti, made the appeal at a press conference to

mark the end of two-day branch executive meeting in Benin. They appealed to the Federal Government to urgently embark on reconstruction of the roads, which now posed grave danger to motorists across the country. They urged the government to reconstruction Ilorin-Oloru-Jebba

Road, Calabar-Odukpani and many other roads linking the West and Eastern parts of the country. “Federal Government should wade into the unlawful and corrupt behaviour of some members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps,” he said, adding that the officers constitute

a nuisance on highways in the guise of checking illegal products from vandalised pipelines. He said the appeal followed Mr Boboye Oyeyemi, Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Commission, request that they should sensitise their members to cooperate with its officials deployed in tank farms.

Prepare for more changes under Buhari, cleric tells Nigerians

ev. Jonathan Babalola, Senior Pastor of Union Baptist Church, Ekotedo, Ibadan, yesterday told Nigerians to be prepared for more changes in the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. Babalola, who said this at the 70th anniversary of the church, also urged politicians

to shun all forms of corrupt practices and embrace the fight against corruption. He said politicians were supposed to be good examples to members of the public, urging them to apply the teachings in churches and mosques to all aspects of their lives. Babalola said the constitution of the church, which was recently CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME OKOLO:

I, formerly known and MISS OKOLO JULIET

addressed as

NONYE,

now wish to be known and

as MRS. CHIGBOH NONYE . All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note. addressed

JULIET

EZE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS EZE CALISTA IJEOMA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. AJIBO CALISTA IJEOMA. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE NEWOIL BIBLE CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY The general public is hereby informed that the above named Church has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No 1of 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. 2. 3.

STEPHENS ESTHER TAIWO FEMI TITILAYO AUSTIN KEMI TITILAYO BECKY

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: • To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to all nations • To enhance the welfare of members of the church • To evangelise the world through church planting and dissemination of the word. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, P.M.B 198,Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: THE TRUSTEES

launched, was meant to guide the leadership in administration of the church. The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that the church had been in existence since January 1, 1945. NAN also reports that the anniversary started on Sept. 13 with various activities such as medical test and visitation to orCHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Mr. Nduka Collins Ifeanyi now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. Innocent Collins Ifeanyi. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as Miss TANIMOWO ATOKE TEMILOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. ABAYOMI ATOKE TEMILOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public please note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Maryam Adenike Oki now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Maryam Adenike Alaka. All former documents remain valid. N.Y.S.C. and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME IDIKA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS IDIKA JOY OBIAGELI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OKPARA JOY OBIAGELI. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note.

phanages, while awards were presented to those who had contributed to the growth of the church. Among beneficiaries was Rev. Samuel Oladitan, a 96-year-old cleric, who served in the church between 1988 and 1994. The anniversary also witnessed a fund-raising for the development of the church. CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss.Solomon Juliet Loveth now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Agoye Juliet Loveth. All former documents remain valid. Yaba College of Technology, N.Y.S.C. and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as Miss ADESANYA RUQOYAH ADENIKE, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. YUSUFF RUQOYAH ADENIKE. All former documents remain valid. General public please note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as MR. TOYIN POPOOLA JAMES, now wish to be known and addressed as MR. AJIBOYE TEMIDAYO OLOYEDE. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OKWUNODULU: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKWUNODULU NKEMDILIM PETRONILLA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS IBUOKANMA NKEMDILIM PETRONILLA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

ings of occupants of residential quarters inside the station. The policemen on duty fired several teargas canisters and gunshots into the air to no available. The mob were said to have been desperate to dare the police. When contacted, state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mrs. Folasade Odoro, confirmed the incident. She explained that the police officer driving the

APC lost control and hit an electric pole, which eventually electrocuted the kids. While describing the incident as unfortunate, Mrs. Odoro said all operational vehicles in the station, private cars and police quarters were vandalised by the angry mob. She then appealed to residents of Ilesa to remain calm and assured that the matter would be investigated and the culprit brought to justice.

N28.9bn fraud - BGL, subsidiaries remain suspended –SEC

ecurities and Exchange Commission, SEC, yesterday maintained that BGL Group and its subsidiaries and sponsored individuals remained suspended from operating in the Nigerian capital market. Justice Mohammed Yunusa of a Federal High Court in Lagos, on September 17, 2015 vacated an interim injunction barring the Commission from expelling BGL Group from capital market activities over alleged frauds and other malpractices. The Commission in a notice posted on its website dated September 19, 2015 informed the public that on September 17th, 2015, the Federal High Court in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/767/15; BGL Plc & Ors Vs Securities and CHANGE OF NAME RAUF: Formerly known and addressed as Rauf Raimot Tinuade, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Raimot Rauf Oyeyemi. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as Miss Adelodun Aderonke Racheal, Now wishes to be known and called as Mrs. Oguntunji Aderonke Racheal. All former documents remain valid, Tescom and general public note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as ATERE JAMES AJINDE, now wish to be known and addressed as AJINDE JAMES. All former documents remain valid. General public please note. CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Oladiran Monsurat Oyenike, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Abdulrasheed Monsurat Oyenike. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OKOLO: I, formerly known and addressed as OKOLO ALFRED SOLOMON, now wish to be known and addressed as ANENECHUKWU SOLOMON AFRED. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

Exchange Commission, discharged the Ex-Parte order obtained by BGL Plc and its subsidiaries on the 27th of May 2015.” SEC stated that in view of the court’s ruling, BGL, its subsidiaries and sponsored individuals remained suspended from operating in the Nigerian capital market. The capital market regulator clarified further that the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, Central Securities Clearing System, CSCS, Financial Market Dealers Quotation, FMDQ Plc, Nigeria Association of Securities Dealers, NASD Plc and the general public should further note that the directives of the commission in its public notice dated the 21st of May 2015 still subsisted. CHANGE OF NAME AUDU: Formerly known and addressed as MISS AUDU OMOWUMI MARY, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. TAIWO MARY OLAWALE. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as Miss Ogunbeku Folajimi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adewale Folajimi Ogunbeku. All former documents bearing adewale folajimi juliana, and ogunbeku folajimi juliana remain valid. General public please note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known as Miss BAKARE TAWAKALITU ABISOYE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ISMAIL-THAANI TAWAKALITU ABISOYE. All former documents remain valid. General public please note.

CHANGE OF NAME I FORMERLY KNOWN AS MISS. ANIH AMUCHE ANTHONIA, NOW WISHES TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS. NNAEBUE ANTHONIA AMUCHE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as Miss Bamidele Tolulope Rebecca, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Kumapayi Tolulope Rebecca. All former documents remain valid; N.Y.S.C and general public please take note.

Features

Monday, September 21, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ambode’s fiscal policy reflects commitment to employment generation, security Francis Suberu

n less than six months of Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode’s emergence as Governor of Lagos State, the focus and direction of his government is beginning to unfold; not with the recent fiscal policy document he sent to the State House of Assembly on September 15, 2015. Out of the N23.4billion he planned to spend for the rest of the 2015 fiscal year, employment generation fund and security intervention gulp over 35 per cent of the total budget. This is a clear signal as to the path the governor wants his government to take. According to the document, the governor earmarked a whopping sum of N8.6 billion to contain the alarming incidence of unemployment and security challenges in the state. Aside, the governor allocated N3.16 billion for contingency fund, N8.4 billion for special expenditure and N1.07 billion for completion of various projects, which the defunct Ministry of Rural Development commenced under the last administration. While reading the document containing the re-ordered 2015 physical policy during a plenary session of the State House of Assembly, the Senior Legislative Director, Mr. Wasiu Bisiriyu, lamented the abysmal performance of the 2015 budget, which according to him stood at 71 percent recurrent expenditure and 29 percent capital expenditure. The letter listed the rationale for proposing budget re-ordering, which it said, included construction of pedestrian bridge at Ojodu Berger, construction of fly-over bridges at Ajah Roundabout and Pen Cinema, Agege. The letter also said the budget re-ordering proposal would cater for the continued construction of blue light rail project, Lekki-Epe Expressway and acquisition of emergency/rescue helicopters and heavy duty equipment (cranes and forklift) and for Employment Trust Fund and Wealth Creation Programmes. The letter read: “It is worthy of note that we are constrained by the fact that there are no new revenue sources for the remaining months of the year, and as a result we would not be in a position to propose a supplementary budget, hence the recourse to a re-ordering of the Y2015 budget. “The budget, as at June 30, had a 63 percent overall performance, a far cry from the set target of 100 percent. When further analysed, the recurrent expenditure stood at 97 percent while capital was at an abysmal 29 percent performance, portending a 24:76 capital/recurrent ratio. “This level of performance has made it imperative to go back to the drawing board to structure a more conscientious approach to tilt our total capital investment in the remaining months in order to meet the target capital/recurrent ratio of 51:49,” the letter said. In the seven-page document addressed to the Speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa,

This level of Ambode

the governor allocated a sum of N3 billion to kick-start the Employment Trust Fund (ETF), which he proposed during the electioneering to fight youth unemployment in the state. Contingent on his campaign design, Ambode had promised to establish a N25 billion employment fund, which he said, would decongest the unemployment camp by at least one million per annum. The governor added that the N25 billion employment fund, which he said, would be managed by men of impeccable character from private sector, academia and public sector. Aside, Ambode proposed additional N3.8 billion for security intervention, thereby bringing it to N5.3 billion from the initial vote of N1.5 million to enable it accommodate the purchase of rescue helicopter and other security interventions. The governor jacked up N55.75 billion earmarked for the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure for capital expenditure by N3.48 billion, thereby bringing it to a total of N59.23 billion. The governor also approved N1.077 billion for the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure for the completion of ongoing projects for the defunct Ministry of Rural Development. He reviewed the special expenditure for the current fiscal year, which he said, was jacked up from N4.5 billion to N8.4 billion for special capital projects, while the contingency fund moved from N1.16 billion originally to N3.16 billion. In the fiscal policy document, He sought to remove N500 million from N2 billion earmarked for the completion of ongoing Lagos Metropolitan Development Governance Project (LMDGP) pegging it at

performance has made it imperative to go back to the drawing board to structure a more conscientious approach to tilt our total capital investment in the remaining months in order to meet the target

capital/recurrent ratio of

51:49

N1.5 billion while N2.32 billion initially earmarked for Public-Private Partnership (PPP) was re-ordered by N1.8 billion, leaving a balance of N503 million. He also said of the N6.5 billion budgeted for holistic shoreline project of the Ministry of Waterfront, N3.5 billion was re-ordered from the shoreline protection project, leaving a balance of N3 billion for the project. He added that of the N22.68 billion budgeted initially for the Lagos Area Metropolitan Transport Authority (LAMATA), it was re-ordered by N2 billion, thus bringing it down to N20 billion. The sum of N4.5 billion was re-ordered from the N10.6 billion earmarked for new waterworks, leaving a balance of N6.13

billion for the project, while the N600.96 million earmarked for the relocation of Computer Village was re-ordered, meaning that the government will not relocate the village anytime soon. The Ode-Omi projects have been stopped as the N480.77 million budgeted for the project has been re-ordered. The same goes to the LAGBUS Asset Management Limited which got N500 million initially to acquire new buses, but the money has now been re-ordered and channelled to some other projects. The sum of N1 billion was removed from the original N7.17 billion budget for the development of the Lekki Free Trade Zone and re-ordered, leaving a balance of N6.17 billion. For the redevelopment of Isale-gangan, the initial budget of N1.03 billion has been cut by N500 million, leaving a balance of N530.3 million for the project, while the budget of the Office of Drainage Services, which was initially N4.3 billion has been reduced by N500 million with a balance of N3.8 billion left. During the plenary in which the letter was read, the Speaker of the assembly, Mr. Mudashiru Obasa constituted an eightman adhoc committee to look into a request for budget re-ordering proposed by the governor as stated in a letter sent to the House. The speaker, who appointed Hon. Rotimi Olowo Shomolu Constituency I as the Chairman of the eight-man committee, gave the committee seven days to present its report to a plenary on September 22. The speaker also named other members of the committee to include Hon. Desmond Elliot, Hon. Ibrahim Layode, Hon. Rasheed Makinde, Hon. Dayo Saka Fafunmi, Hon. Yinka Ogundimu and Hon. Alimi Kassim. While debating the proposal, Fafunmi suggested that it was necessary to set-up a committee to look into the request, which was supported by Hon. Segun Olulade, who said that the letter was overdue. Olulade said further that the state yearns for infrastructural development, adding that the issue should be addressed as early as possible. In his contribution, the Deputy Majority Leader, Hon. Olumuyiwa Jimoh said the presentation of the 2016 budget “is close by and that this could affect the budget reordering,” adding that the attention of the governor should be called to the need for the House to approve the merging of ministries. However, Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu, who represents Eti-Osa Constituency II, argued that the budget re-ordering proposal should be given a speedy attention and a thorough look by the the eight-man committee. “The executive council should give us enough insight into collections of revenue to know how the different agencies are performing. We should look at this when we are considering next year’s budget. A particular source can increase even if we don’t have a new source,” the lawmaker explained.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

North

Monday, September 21, 2015

NASS member elated over court victory Williams Attah, Gombe

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Alhaji Baba Farouk; Accountant-General of the Federation, Alhaji Ahmed Idris and Director, Metallurgy Inspectorate and Raw Material Development, Mr. Obienu Ikeokwu, during a dinner in honour of Idris, in Abuja at the weekend. PHOTO: NAN

Kwara Assembly moves against some fuel stations Wole Adedeji, Ilorin

ocal councils in Kwara State have been urged to institute adequate measures to check indiscriminate building of filling stations in residential areas. The directive was given at the weekend by an adhoc committee of the State House of Assembly to control proliferation and loca-

tion of filling stations in places dangerous to health of citizens and impose sanctions. Chairman of the committee, Kamaldeen Fagbemi addressing a gathering in Bode-Saadu, headquarters of Moro Local Government, explained that collaboration between the Local Governments and the House of Assembly in this respect became imperative to avert tragedies

that could attend wrong siting of petrol stations in the state. According to him, the downtrodden citizens should be removed from the unnecessary evils that trail harbouring petrol stations in their vicinity. Fagbemi reminded council chairmen that as the chief security officers of their respective local governments, they are saddled with responsibility of

vigilance on certain activities, particularly those that pose security threat to lives and properties. Chairman of the Local Government, AbdulGaniyu Ajibola, frowned at the indiscriminate establishment of filling stations in residential areas, which he described as risky, stressing that no responsible government could fold its arms and allow such trend continue unchecked.

Jellason and his four Special Advisers have been described as lopsided and incapable of moving the state forward. Ishaku’s appointment of his former governorship campaign directorgeneral, Abubakar Bawa, as special adviser on Political Matters was widely criticised, given that Bawa, according to critics, failed to deliver his polling booth to PDP during the elections. Though the state House of Assembly has approved a list of 25 Special Advisers sent to it by the governor on assumption of office, he has only named his Special Advisers on Legal and Legislative Matters, Political Matters, Media and Publicity and Economic Matters. The APC chairman in

the state, Ardo Jika, wondered why Ishaku went ahead to appoint the duo of Anthony Jellason and Rebo as SSG and Chief of Staff respectively after they were indicted in the N400 million flood disaster fund in 2012. “Everybody in Taraba knows they were indicted by the State House of Assembly. It is surprising that people who were indicted and have not been exonerated by a competent court are now in his kitchen cabinet; that shows the kind of government we have in Taraba,” he said. Critics of the governor said his newness in the state politics was behind the delay, insisting that he has been caged by a cabal who wants to remain relevant at the detriment of

the state. But a close confidant of the governor who preferred anonymity told National Mirror that while Ishaku is considering a slim cabinet to cut cost, political gladiators who helped him to power keep sending their lists of people to be appointed commissioners, Special Advisers and chairmen of juicy boards and parastatals. “Oga is trying not to fall apart with people who helped him to power like senators Emmanuel Bwacha and Danlami Ikenya, as well as other influential politicians in the state. “His list of commissioner nominees was recently altered and five names were dropped. But very soon, he will name his cabinet,” he said.

Politicians behind cabinet delay in Taraba –Investigation Justin Tyopuusu, Jalingo

overnor Darius Ishaku’s inability to name a cabinet nearly four months after assuming office has been blamed on intense lobbying and infighting by political gladiators in the state, National Mirror can report. Ishaku, who has repeatedly told people of the state he is on a rescue mission to the state, is yet to assemble his rescue team, nearly four months in office, an action critics attributed to his being a novice in the state politics. The key appointments made so far by the governor including Chief of Staff, Rebo Usman; Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Anthony

andidate of the All Progressive Congress for GombeKwami-Funakaye Federal Constituency in the 2015 general elections, Yaya Tungo, has described the recent judgment passed by the Appeal Court in Abuja in his favour against his fellow party member as victory for the rule of law and justice to all. Tungo had contested and won the election against the PDP and other candidates during the 2015 elections but was denied certificate of return based on a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja. Hon. Ahmed Mailantarki of APC had contested and failed the party’s primary election but things turned around because there were issues concerning Tungo’s defection from PDP to APC while a member of the Gombe House of Assembly in the last Assembly. The case was taken to court and the certificate of return awarded to Mailantarki. Speaking to journalists shortly after the court verdict on Friday which declared him as legitimate member to represent the constituency, Tungo said he was elated over news of the verdict. According to him, Nigerians have been yearning for justice and positive change, stressing that justice had taken its effect in his case.

It could be recalled that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC in Gombe while presenting return certificates to winners of the 2015 election in April denied Tungo his though he was declared winner, and rather presented the certificate to the incumbent representative, Ahmed Khamisu Maillantarki. Shortly afterwards, Tungo lamented to journalists that his mandate had been stolen and vowed to take the matter to court to reclaim his ‘hard earned victory’. He argued that Mailantarki did not contest the said position at the polls. Tungo also denied claims that he had failed to tender his defection notice to Gombe House of Assembly where he served under PDP. He claimed that the then House Speaker refused to make his defection notice public on the floor of the House. Mailantarki, on the other hand, claimed he obtained an order from an Abuja Federal High Court, which ruled that Tungo did not formally defect from PDP to APC before the election and ordered INEC to present the certificate of return to him instead of Tungo. The then State INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Kassim Gaidam stated that INEC is law abiding and that its action was based on the court ruling.

We’re working to end Plateau crisis –Dariye, Useni James Abraham, Jos

ormer Plateau State governor, Senator Joshua Dariye and Senator representing Plateau South in the National Assembly, Jeremiah Useni, yesterday said they were working hard to end the crisis in the state. The duo spoke at the weekend during a thanksgiving service and dedication of the newly renovated COCIN church in Langtang North local government area of the state. They called on Plateau people to continue to pray and also tolerate each other and ensure that lasting peace is restored in the state. Useni condemned the recent killings of innocent lives in the state and called on the entire citizenry “to remain calm and stand in solidarity with one another

as the collective resolve of citizens of the state is to remain as one united people in spite of ethnic and religious differences.” He also called on the people to support President Muhammadu Buhari and their state governor, Simon Lalong, to gain quality representation and democratic dividends. He assured members of his constituency he would not fail them, but attract projects that would better their living conditions. On his part, Dariye described Useni as a man who has impacted positively on people of the state. He said the three senators from the state were working hard to ensure restoration of lasting peace to the state. Dariye also called on the citizenry to tolerate each other and learn to live peacefully with one another.

Monday, September 21, 2015

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS ARAROMI OLUWASEYI REBECCA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. AKINOLA OLUWASEYI REBECCA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly called and addressed as Miss Akinloye Abosede Funmi now wish to be called and known as Mrs Abosede Muhammed Funmi. All former documents remain valid,Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Habib: I formerly known and addressed as Miss Habib Muinat Omobolanle, now wish to be known and address as Mrs. Adediran Muinat Omobolanle( Habib). All former documents remain valid. Nigerian Railway Corporation Management Ebute metta and the general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and called as Miss Odebiyi Folasade Eunice now wish to be addressed and called as Mrs Oladeji Folasade Eunice. All former documents remain valid, NYSC and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss Ihemadu Chioma Victoria, now wishes to be known and addressed as Mrs. Chioma Vitalis Ezeh. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME SULEIMAN : Formerly known and addressed as MISS SULEIMAN AMINAT, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AMINAT IBRAHIM . All former documents remain valid. NYSC and General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known addressed as Miss Rosemary Alkali, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Rosemary Philip. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Police Force Akwanga Division and the general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and called Miss Ishola Dolapo, henceforth wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Fatola Ishola Dolapo. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as OKONKWO CHRISTIAN CHUKWUKA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as UBALA CHRISTIAN CHUKWUKA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME That i, Olubunmi Ekundare is the MD/ CEO of CHAZMAL ASSOCIATES with RC No: LAZ064980 and registered with CAC with Form No:7.6 on the 11th day of February, 1998. That on the above mentioned certificate, my name was wrongly written as Bunmi Ekundaire instead of Olubunmi Ekundare. That my correct name is OLUBUNMI EKUNDARE. General public and Authorities concerned take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Yisau Oludayo Oloyese, now wish to be known and addressed as Timothy Oludayo Fayemi. All former documents remain valid. Corporate Affairs commission and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known as MISS ROSE EMMANUEL, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. ROSE ADEJO MATHEW. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogunmola Sarah Bamidele now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oluwatosin Sarah Bamidele. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly Miss Popoola Olufunmilayo Janet, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Jekami Olufunmilayo Janet. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME ORJI: I formerly known and addressed as MISS ORJI NWANMAKA FIDELIA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. NDUBUISI NWAMAKA FIDELIA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note. CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to confirm THAT CHUKWU NNENNA NTASIOBI is the same person as CHUKWU NNENNA PATIENCE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

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

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly called and addressed as HINDATU UMAR GALADIMA. Now wish to be Known and addressed as HINDATU MANSUR HASSAN. All former Documents remain valid. N Y S C and general public should take note.

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

This is to bring to the attention of the general public the loss of Fagge Local Government Certificate of Occupancy No 11745 dated 7/8/1985 in respect of house No 51 Church Road, Kano in the name of ALHAJI ALIMI LAWORE. Any member of the public who comes across it should report to the nearest police station.

PUBLIC NOTICE GEORGE ONI YOUTH EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE This is to inform the General public that the above named has applied for Registration to the Corporate Affairs Commission under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:-

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known as kuye, Olufunmilayo Taiwo, now wishes to be known and addressed as Mrs. Sodiya Olufunmilayo. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Olubukonla Philomena Fakoya, now wish to be known and addressed as Olubukonla Philomena Akinbobola. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly addressed and known as Miss Fadele Kehinde Esther now wish to be called and addressed as Mrs Ajisola Kehinde Esther. All former documents remain valid, general public should please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Hassan Semiat Ajibola now wish to be called and addressed as Mrs Bello Semiat Ajibola. All former document remain valid,general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Jonah Blessing Nnenna, now wishes to be known and addressed as Mrs. Oliver Blessing Nnenna. All documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as Miss Lolo Joy Tsado, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Joy Lolo Alfred. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Agu u Uloma Linda, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Owuru Uloma Linda. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as Vincent Adiekwe, now wish to be known and addressed as Vincent Udenaewu. All former documents remain valid. First Bank Plc and the general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME SOLOMON UGONNA and appeared as SOLOMON UGONNA MBAM on my OTHER DOCUMENTS. That i am the same person bearing all the above mentioned names. General public take note.

I, Formerly known and addressed as Ojiaku Dona Ezechi, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Ojiaku Stanley Ebubechukwu. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME formerly known and addressed as Miss AMUSAN SALIMOT OMOTAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. AZEEZ SALIMOT OMOTAYO. Former documents remain valid. FEDERAL MEDICAL CENTRE ABEOKUTA OGUN STATE and general public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MISS AKINPELU ELIZABETH TEMITOPE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OGUNLEYE ELIZABETH TEMITOPE. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as miss Oluwatoyin Elizabeth Adebo now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oluwatoyin Elizabeth Ambali. All former documents remain valid Ogun SUBEB Abeokuta, INLGEA Ijebu Igbo and general public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Fashola Oluwatomi Olajumoke, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adebayo Oluwatomi Olajumoke. All former documents remain valid. Odogbolu Local government NYSC and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME OKAFOR: I formerly known and addressed as MISS OKAFOR NNEDIMMA RUTH, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. CHIMA NNEDIMMA RUTH. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OZOEMENA:I formerly known and addressed as MISS OZOEMENA UJUNWA EVANGELIN, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. EZEH UJUNWA EVANGELIN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly called and addressed as TABITHA DORCAS ZANGE. Now wish to be Known and addressed as MRS TABITHA HARUNA KARATU. All former Documents remain valid. Admin Dept, cabinet office Birnin Kebbi and general public should take note.

ONYEJEKWE: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ONYEJEKWE FAVOUR NGOZIKA,now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ONYEWUNZE NGOZICHUKWUKA FAVOUR. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note. CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME UDO: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS UDO ROSELYN OGECHI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ODUNZE QUEEN OGECHI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

That on my BIRTH CERTIFICATE, my name appears as UGONNA GUY MBAM, on my BAPTISMAL CARD, it appears as SOLOMON UGONNA GUY MBAM, on my INTERNATIONAL PASSPORT, it appears as MBAM

PUBLIC NOTICE LUMEN EAGLES BROTHERS CLUB This is to inform the general public that the above named CLUB has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the part C of the Company and Allied Matters Act 1990. TRUSTEES ARE: 1) ANEKE PAULINUS CHIBUIKE

- PRESIDENT.

(1) MRS ANIKE OLUWAKEMI ONI (2) DR LORETTA UCHENNA OKOYE (3) MR ANTHONY MATHIS

2) AKUMA RAYMOND ABUCHI

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:-

5) ASOGWA KINGSLEYMARY TOCHUKWU -ASSISTANT SECRETARY.

1. To provide training for youth; 2. To provide mentorship for youth; 3, To motivate and empower youth. 4. To create employment and other developmental programs.

7) NWODO CHRISTOPHER OZOEMENA - TREASURER.

3) AGBU FABIAN EJIKE

- VICE PRESIDENT. - 2nd VICE PRESIDENT.

4) ODO EMMANUEL OKWUDILI - SECRETARY. 6) EZE CLEMENT UCHENNA

- FINANCIAL SECRETARY.

8) EZEMUOKA CHUKWUJEKWU 9) CHUKWU CHIBUZO BENJAMIN. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE :

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, GARKI, ABUJA within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED BY:-JOSEPH AKHERE EBHOHIMEN SECRETARY

1. TO BRING PEACE AND HARMONY AMONG MEMBERS. 2. TO ENHANCE UNITY AND DISCIPLINE AMONG THE MEMBERS Any objection to the above registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Trigis Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street,Maitama, Abuja,within 28 days of this publication. SIGNED: ANEKE PAULINUS CHIBUIKE – PRESIDENT

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CHANGE OF NAME Formerly addressed and known as Miss Adeyemi Abiola Kafayat now wish to be called and addressed as Mrs Fabunmi Abiola Kafayat. All former documents remain valid,NYSC and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly addressed and known as Miss Oyetade Julianah Adeola now wish to be known and called as Mrs Adegbemi Julianah Adeola. All former documents remain valid,general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss Chizoba Regine Udoye, now wishes to be known and addressed as Mrs. Chizoba .R. Sunday Ezimma. All former documents remain valid general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as Obiajunwa Meshach, now wish to be known and addressed as Aguoha Meshach Mmuomaife. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, Formerly known and addressed as Benedict Adedeji Oluwatayo, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Bukun Benedict Oluwatayo. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as MISS FOLAGBADE ADEMAYOWA ARIKE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ADEBIYI ADEMAYOWA ARIKE. All former documents remain valid; National Youths Service Corp (NYSC) & general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME AJUORAH: I formerly known and addressed as MISS AJUORAH LYNDA MARCELIUS, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OZUAH LYNDA NWAMAKA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

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CHANGE OF NAME AKUJIOBI:I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AKUJIOBI LOIS CHINONYE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. NZEWUNWA LOIS CHINONYE. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note.

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CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Mrs Esther Abayomi Ogunlade now wish to be known and called as Mrs Esther Abayomi Femi Ojo. All former documents remain valid, Osun State Local Government Service Commission,Ifelodun Local Government Ikirun and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss Fatunsin Olamide, now wishes to be addressed and called as Mrs. Fajimolu Olamide. All former documents remain valid. TEPO, State of Osun Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME COSMOS: Formerly known and addressed as ONYEBUEKE IFEANYI, now wish to be known and addressed as ONYEBUEKE IFEANYI COSMOS. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKONJI AMANDA UZOR, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS KONKWO AMANDA UZOR. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME OLUWOLE: I, formerly known and addressed as OLUWOLE OLUWAYEMISI OLADUNNI now wish to be known, called and addressed as OLAYIDE YEMISI OLADUNNI. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME Formerly known and addressed as Miss Garuba Balqees Oluwadamilare, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Abdul Balqees Oluwadamilare. All former documents remain valid. TASUED NYSC and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME FORMERLY KNOWN AS SOLOMON OLUWOLE ODEKU, NOW WISHES TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SOLOMON OLUWOLE ISAAC-OLADEJI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

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CHANGE OF NAME YAHAYA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ENENU YAHAYA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ENENU AMAEFULE. All former documents remain valid. general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME ASOGWA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ASOGWA EDITH KENECHUKWU, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. NGWU EDITH KENECHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

OPTIMAL HEALTH FOUNDATION

This is to inform the general public that the trustees of the above named FOUNDATION with headquarters in Lagos wish to apply to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration as a corporate body under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Aina Olusola Adio - Chairman 2. Asimolowo Olufunke Stella - Secretary 3. Ladipo Olugbenga - Member AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

1) To provide intervention for individuals with alcohol and substance abuse. 2) To fully engage the individuals with alcohol and substance abuse and work on their recovery. 3) To campaign against HIV/AIDS transmissions. Any objection to the registration should be addressed to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, P.MB. 198 Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication. Julius Adeosun Olaosebikan Adeosun & Co. Barristers, Solicitors and Notary Public, 229, Ikotun Road, Idimu, Lagos. 08023176362

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Monday, September 21, 2015

United go second place, Reds held

–NEW YORK CITY FC MIDFIELDER, ANDREA PIRLO

Glo League results Ahmed Musa celebrate his goal

Sport

I still feel a lot relevant here because many players want to learn a thing or two from my past experience

Musa bags brace in thriller; Echiejile, Obi benched uper Eagles forward, Ahmed Musa, scored twice and provided an assist as CSKA beat Mordovya 6-4 in the Russian Premier League yesterday. Musa scored in the 80th and 85th minutes. His assist for Seydou Doumbia brought the score to 3-3, after CSKA went three goals down. Musa has now scored five league goals for CSKA in the league this season. In Belgium, Moses Simon was introduced in the 29th minute for Yaya Soumahoro and provided the assist for Gent’s opening goal as they beat Standard Liege 4-1. The game was Simon’s eighth but he is yet to score this season. Returnee Super Eagles defender, Elderson Echiejile, was an unused substitute as AS Monaco were beaten 3-2 at home to Lorient. Echiejile has appeared three times for Monaco in Ligue 1 this season. In Scotland, Efe Ambrose was in action for 90 minutes as champions Celtic, thrashed Dundee United 6-0. Ambrose has now played seven league games for Celtic this term.In Serie A, Joel Obi, was left on the bench for 90 minutes, as Torino defeated visiting Sampdoria 2-0. Fabio Quagliarella scored both goals for Torino. Super Eagles invitee, Abdullahi Shehu, was not in action for Uniao da Madeira as they were held to a 0-0 draw at home against Arouca in a Portugese Primeira Liga clash. Also in Portugal, the duo of Reuben Gabriel and Michael Uchebo were in action for Boavista in their 2-0 away win against Academica De Coimbra. Gabriel was on for 90 minues while Uchebo was replaced by Anderson Barros. Nwankwo Obiorah did not feature for Academica.

FIFA Presidency conditions

3SC

Akwa

Abia

Wolves

Dolphins

Taraba

El-Kanemi

Enyimba

Giwa

Sharks

Heartland

Lobi

IfeanyiUbah

Pillars

Nasarawa

Rangers

Pinnick defends action, as Toro backs NFF Paul Erewuba

he President of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick over the weekend reiterated that the conditions rolled out by the NFF Executive Committee for Nigerians aspiring for the Office of President of FIFA were perfectly in order and meant to ensure the aspirants make wide consultations before the real contest, even as former NFA Scribe, Sani Ahmed Toro has backed the federation. Speaking on a sports programme in Lagos in direct reference to the condemnation of the NFF criteria by Chief Olusegun Odegbami (one of the aspirants), Pinnick underscored the fact that the NFF was interested in protecting the image of the country. Former Super Eagles captain, Segun Odegbami (MON) and former governor of Abia state, Chief Kalu Uzor Kalu, are the

two Nigerians, who have indicated interest in replacing Sepp Blatter as FIFA boss. Blatter, against the backdrop of corruption allegation levelled against the body will step down in March 2016 when an emergency Elective Congress will elect a new president. The conditions the NFF has rolled out were that the aspirants; get a letter of endorsement from the relevant State Football Association; provide evidence of fulfillment of the FIFA Presidential election eligibility provisions; endorsement by continental football governing body and also a letter of support from the National Sports Commission. Pinnick said the conditions were not targeted at any aspirant and that they are simply designed to induct the determined persons into the furnace of football politics. “The NFF is presently working to rebuild and repair the country’s football, in order that we can return to global

reckoning. There are so many things we are doing to ensure this, and the NFF is determined that our country does not become a laughing stock as a result of another false step in the political sphere. “Our criteria is reasonable and sensible; this is not a matter for sentiment. We do not underestimate the capacity of the aspirants, but the FIFA presidential race involves too many things and rests on a lot of factors,” Pinnick stated. Meanwhile, Former, Secretary General of the then Nigeria Football Federation, Hon. Sani Ahmed Toro, has supported the NFF over the conditions it gave Nigerians wishing to contest the Presidency of FIFA. Toro said in a statement on NFF website that the conditions were in order. “I want to commend the NFF for the conditions the body has rolled out. They have done very well. Just as they said, we cannot allow people to go out to the international sphere to ridicule Nigeria,” he said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sports

Monday, September 21, 2015

WAMCO Cup season 10 kicks off Ifeanyi Eduzor

passion of the NLO Chairman, Alh. Ahmad Kawu, as well as the good work by the Secretariat anchored by Olushola Ogunnowo, the sky is your limit. “However, I want to advise that from next season only young players below the age of 20 years should be allowed to play in the Nationwide League,” he said.

he 10th edition of the annual Friesland WAMCO Campina football championship kicked off last Saturday at the Agege Stadium, Lagos. Organized in knockout basis, the tournament is scheduled to end on November 7, 2015 and will feature eight teams drawn from the various departments and subsidiaries of the company. Managing Director of the WAMCO, Rahul Colaco told National Mirror that the diary company which produces Peak Milk, Three Crown Milk and other nutritious milk products is organizing the tournament to encourage healthy competition among staff as well as promote their physical and mental well being. “The field of sports is a great place to display the many values FrieslandCampina is noted for. Apart from entertainment, the tournament seeks to encourage work-life balance and promote the physical and mental well- being of staff. These values are very important to productivity and sustainable growth of the company. Ultimately, we hope to select the best players from the tournament to form the FC WAMCO team that will represent the company in FMCG Games”, he noted. Corporate Affairs Director of the company, Ore Famurewa noted that the competition formerly known as “MD’s Cup”, was changed to the new title of “FC WAMCO CUP” in line with the objectives of encouraging employees to take ownership of the corporate values through the tournament; and as well create a synergy between the company and the new team that will emerge at the end of the championship. Meanwhile in the opening match of the competition, Three Crown Powder defeated hard fighting Friso Milk by 2-1.

2016. Buhari noted that the performance of Team Nigeria at the Congo games had yet again brought the massive potential of Nigerian sportsmen and women to excel in their chosen areas against all odds. He implored the country’s athletes to do all they could to ensure that “Nigeria regains its number one position in Africa and the

world at large’’. The president, who noted that a presidential delegation had attended the closing ceremony and conveyed his congratulations to the Team Nigeria and its officials, promised the team a fitting ceremony. He also assured Nigeria’s sportsmen and women that his administration would accord priority to sports, in addition to boosting the morale of the players and enhancing training for future challenges.

Action at the kick off match of the Fc WAMCO Cup in Lagos, at the weekend. PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

Shehu targets Eagles second chance U niao de Madeira player Shehu Abdullahi has said he hoped to take his latest Eagles call-up with both hands. The former Kano Pillars ace said he wanted to make his invitation to count after his debut against Mexico in the USA last year.

Shehu in action

“My first cap was against Mexico in USA,” Shehu stated. “So, I feel so happy with another invitation to Super Eagles. I have been waiting for this opportunity, now that I have it, I will take it with both hands. The former Plateau United star could play as a defensive midfielder

or at right back. He won the Emirs Cup and Super Cup in 2014/2015 season, featured for Nigeria at the 2013 FIFA U20 World Cup and the 2014 CHAN, but missed out on the recent All Africa Games football event in Congo Brazzaville because his Portuguese club did not release him.

Commissioner lauds Nationwide League Paul Erewuba

he Commissioner for Information, Culture, Youths and Sports for Jigawa State Hon. Bala Ibrahim Mamsa, has lauded the organisation of the just concluded Nationwide League One division three zonal playoff across

eight centres in the country, adding that the Nationwide League football should be restricted only to young players. Hon. Mamsa who was on ground in Kano to cheer Rising Stars FC of Jigawa to victory in the play-off in that zone, said that he was thrilled by the soccer artistry exhibited by the two finalists; Funtua FC of

Katsina and Rising Stars FC of Jigawa. “I am overwhelmed. These boys made my day. I do not regret coming here to watch this game, in fact, the Nationwide League deserves our total support. “You see, with the coming of Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah into the Nationwide League and the

Buhari Congratulates Team Nigeria

resident Muhammad Buhari has congratulated the Team Nigeria, who came second on the overall medals table at the just concluded African Games in Congo Brazzaville. This is contained in a statement issued by Malam Garba Shehu, the President’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, in Abuja yesterday. Buhari, who expressed appre-

ciation at the performance of the team, urged the Nigerian athletes to always make Nigeria proud by constantly improving on their performance. He said he was impressed with the performance of Team Nigeria at the continental event, and that he was not in doubt about their zeal and determination to make Nigeria great. He, therefore, expressed deep

joy that several members of the teams did Nigeria proud and singled out for special commendation, the basketball team, D’Tigers Basketball team. The D’Tigers had earlier earned the nation a Gold medal (at the Tunis African Basketball competition) for the first time in 50 years, and by which feat the country got an automatic ticket to the Rio Olympic Games in

WORLD RECORD

First use of marine mammals in defence

N150

Vol. 05 No. 1203 Monday, September 21, 2015

The earliest use of marine mammals in active military defence was during the Vietnam War between 1970–71, by US Navy bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)

Waiting for Buhari on Nigerians’ exodus to Europe

or discerning Africans and their sympathetic friends globally, the horrid news of dangerous journeys into Europe using the Mediterranean Sea and other routes by illegal migrants from Africa and the Middle East and the resultant deaths and other untold hazards from such suicidal missions evoke ghastly imageries of dehumanization and agonizing existentialism. Watching the episodic acts in television tubes as they graphical unfold would sentence the most steeled humans still left with some modicum of humanity to emotional flux. I regularly keep a tab on the development through international news media. Al Jazeera’s news features aptly titled Desperate Journeys, represents for me, the most detailed of such narratives of human miseries, and what I call manifest proclivity for self immolation. I see myself as a strong willed person not given to emotionalism, but

HeartBeat Callistus Oke

Callistusoke@nationalmirroronline.net 08054103275 (SMS ONLY) anthonykila@mail.com such footages of the struggles by mass of Africans and other peoples of the world for continuation of their life existence in safer havens in Europe, always weigh down on my emotions. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), more than 432,761 migrants (many of them illegal) and refugees had reached Europe by sea as of 10 September. Hundreds of thousands of others are reported to be waiting in Libya for their own chance to cross into that Promised Land. Even the number that has succeeded in their new life ambition to make Europe has thrown up insidious migrant crisis in that continent. Nigerians in their thousands count among the number that is causing panic in Europe. The European Union is in tumour contending with the new unprecedented onslaught; and many of its members in panic and defiance, deploying extreme measures to protect their well planned polities. Where does this leave Africa? The African Union ought to be challenged to take a common African approach. After all, the Europe Union is forcing a common European approach to contain the tragedy. Of course, you and I know that this will never materialize. It is not the first time; neither will it be the last. And so, this leaves Nigeria with the option of a Nigerian solution, which is where President Muhammadu Buhari comes in. Perhaps too busy with the corruption demons ravaging the country and the chal-

NIGERIANS IN THEIR THOUSANDS COUNT AMONG THE NUMBER THAT IS CAUSING PANIC IN

EUROPE

lenge of insecurity, the president might not have spared a thought to a holistic approach to making all Nigerians feel comfortable at home and thus resisting the illusion that a better life awaits them in Europe. While researching for the piece, I searched in vain for a Federal Government’s acknowledgement of the challenge posed by such suicidal missions to Europe by Nigerians. The only such acknowledgement was by Senator Ike Ekwermadu last May, shortly before the inauguration of the Buhari presidency. It was at the 2015 First Ordinary Session of the Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS Parliament) in Abuja. Listen to him: “It is sad that while the Trans-Atlantic slave trade saw Africans chained and forcefully taken to foreign lands, the harsh economic realities at home today, force our people to embark on suicidal journeys into Europe and other parts of the world. This is very scandalous. We must initiate urgent and concerted efforts to end the suicidal voyages. Accepted that greed, ignorance, and false expectations contribute to the endless fatal journeys, we must as

regional and national parliaments step up our legislative efforts to entrench good governance that provides jobs, equal opportunities, and indeed caters for the welfare and security of our peoples”. President Buhari, in the absence of Federal Executive Council, should adopt Senator Ikweremadu’s deposition as a working paper for developing the appropriate framework for intermediation effort of the Federal Government. Since the senator is still in the Senator, Nigerians would want to see how he can push for stepping up “legislative efforts to entrench good governance that provides jobs, equal opportunities” in the National Assembly. The exodus of Nigerians abroad to escape from the harness at home is not a recent phenomenon; it has been with us since the 1980s as a result of the National Party of Nigeria’s (NPN) ineptitude, and continued even when the military surpassed by the banality of the political class they sacked on December 31, 1983. However, while the exodus of that period was limited to the brightest of the nation’s intellectuals, what we are witnessing now is that both the intellectuals and uneducated are ready to check out. The 1980s intellectual exodus persisted for long because the governments of the day were either clueless or they showed indifference to the scourge. Some of our half-backed military leaders were quoted as saying whoever wanted to leave Nigeria should leave! So, the “Andrew is checking out” syndrome of the era wreaked heavy toll on the country. President Buhari came on board riding the crest of seductive populism encapsulated in the CHANGE mantra. He has promised to make a difference in the socioeconomic life of Nigerians. It is doable. If Ghana was rescued by Jerry Rawlings in the 1980s to end the Ghana must go stigmatization of that era, President Buhari should do same for Nigeria through economic empowerment programmes and genuine macroeconomic policies that would lift the nation from crass poverty and daunting miserisation.

Sport Extra

Enyimba stunned, keep NPFL top spot

l-Kanemi Warriors, yesterday, stunned six-time Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) club, Enyimba FC 2-1 on match day 30 but the Peoples Elephant remain

top of the standings. The leaders started sluggishly at the Karkanda Stadium, Katsina and were a goal down after just eight minutes after Benjamin Turba fired an unstoppa-

ble drive past the helpless Joshua Enaholo in goal for Enyimba. Enyimba were 0-2 down after 28 minutes as Efe Yahere scored clinically to send shock waves across

the division. Enyimba however stayed top of the standings as they have amassed 55 points from 30 matches. Warri Wolves stay second despite losing 1-2 to

Abia Warriors in Umuahia. Nzube Anaezemba pulled a goal back late in the game but it amounted to scant consolation as the Aba club lost only for the fifth time this season.

Enyimba Emenike

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