Thursday, june 18, 2015 (new) by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

Governors move to probe predecessors

National Mirror www.nationalmirro ronline.ne t

Yari

Vol. 5 3 N0. 1137 657

overnors yesterday resolved to set up bodies to unravel where their predecessors “hid the resources accru-

ing to states from the federation account.” The governors also warned that if nothing was

2015

…as 23 states generated N587.75bn IGR in 2014 OBIORA IFOH AND TOLA AKINMUTIMI

Thursday, June 18,

Book sellers lame nt low Patronage

Reminiscences of early Lagos settlers

INSIDE

Why street trad thrives on Broading culture Street >47

Lagos Island car parks, untapped reve nue assetan

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

P.10 >48

Thursday, June July 4, 18,2013 2015

N150

Buhari consults Northern power brokers over cabinet

...Dambazau may become NSA

AZA MSUE KADUNA

T Kwankwaso, Fashola, Ngige, Fayemi still on list

here were strong indications yesterday that President Muhammadu Buhari has consulted key northern power brokers and close associates and loyalists in Kaduna over his proposed ministerial and Special Advisers, SAs’ list for their input. This was just as the President is set to announce his ministers and the approved 15 SAs any moment from now, barring any unforeseen circumstances or change of mind. National Mirror gathered that President Buhari, who arrived Kaduna from the African Union, AU, summit

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

Bombs abandoned by Boko Haram kill 23 in Borno

P.4

L-R: Celestine Enwerem, Sani Zaharadeen and Hamisu Yunusa, some Nigerians evacuated by NEMA from Yemen, on their arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Lawmakers kick against pay cuts

President’s age an asset, says ...as TUC decries N9bn jumbo allowances P.2 Presidency P.6

Military to commence full operation from Maiduguri in 21 days

P.6

INSIGHT

Tl Telecoms: Subscribers, operators groan even in face of profits P.38

News

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Lawmakers kick against pay cuts GEORGE OJI AND OLUFEMI ADEOSUN

ome members of the National Assembly yesterday kicked against calls by Nigerians to cut the salaries and allowances of lawmakers in the country to reflect the current dwindling resources and austere financial situation. This is even as the Trade Union Congress, TUC, expressed dismay over moves to pay N8.64bn as allowance to senators and House of Representatives members, describing the plan as outrageous. It was reported on Tuesday that members of the National Assembly would take home N8.64bn next week as wardrobe allowance. The report consequently triggered public rage against the lawmakers, even as there have been calls for the slashing of the salaries and allowances of the legislators. But reacting to the development, some lawmakers who spoke to National Mirror decried the report of jumbo pay for the legislators as false, which according to them, does not reflect the true situation of things. They explained that contrary to the report, the amount is meant to cover allowances such as their

vehicle fueling and maintenance, domestic staff, personal assistants, constituency offices, house maintenance, utilities and entertainment, among others for the entire 469 lawmakers. According to the lawmakers, the allowances are usually a one-off payment to cover four years and not annually as it was wrongly perceived by Nigerians. They contended that their predecessors had already committed them to enough sacrifice by slashing the annual budget of the National Assembly from N150bn to N125bn in this year’s budget. A re-elected senator, representing Ondo North Senatorial District, Ajayi Samuel Boroffice, who spoke to National Mirror on phone described the report as false and misleading. He said the report, which has been consistent recently, portrays the lawmakers in bad light before the electorate, stressing that the public do not appreciate the purpose of the allowances paid to lawmakers as well as the onerous demands on the legislators. “People talk about these allowances as if you take it and put in your pockets and go home. As a legislator, I have to maintain a minimum of six offices in my constituency; one in each local government, staffed and funded. Until recently,

I had to employ somebody to clean my office. I buy my stationery; I fuel my car,” he said. Drawing comparisons between elected lawmakers and other categories of public officers, the senator said: “When I was in the ministry as a director general, all those things were done by government: my telephone bills were paid by government; electricity bills were paid by government. I had official driver; my car was fueled by government; my trips abroad were paid for by government. “Then, I did not have any office in my local government. When you look at

all these, you will discover that things are different now. “For instance, people want to bury their parents; people want to pay school fees, people want to pay hospital bills. They are on us because it is easier to reach us than the governors or the President. “So, we bear the brunt; we are the people they see as politicians and they want us to solve all their problems. So, when you know what the responsibilities of a legislator are, you will be amazed and you will have pity on us.” Another re-elected senator from the South East

zone, who did not want his name mentioned, described as wrong, the perception by many Nigerians that National Assembly members enjoy jumbo pay and allowances. Drawing a comparison with members of the executive, the lawmaker claimed that once a person is appointed a minister, for instance, he is given about N30m to enable him upgrade his lifestyle as a minister, in addition to fleets of cars and free accommodation, among other perks of office. He stated that compared with ministers who are mere appointees of the

President, when an elected senator manages to get one official car, the public usually make big issue out of it. “I feel there is a deliberate attempt by the media to paint a wrong impression of members of the National Assembly, particularly on this issue of salaries and allowances. Otherwise, if the objective is to ensure prudence in public spending, the media should turn its searchlight on the executive,” he added. However, one of the new senators, who is pushing for a cut in the allowances CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

L-R: Governors Rochas Okorocha (Imo), Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Chairman, Nigerian Governors’ Forum/Zamfara State Governor Abdul-aziz Yari and his Katsina counterpart, Alhaji Aminu Bello Matsari, during the first meeting of Nigerian Governors’ Forum in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

Buhari consults Northern power brokers over cabinet CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

in South Africa on Tuesday evening, was said to have consulted with his close northern loyalists and top power brokers in the region to put final touches on his cabinet list and fish out competent, committed and unblemished Nigerians, who can drive the All Progressives Congress, APC, election campaign promises. It was learnt that Buhari, who was received by Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir el-Rufai, alongside other top security chiefs at the Kaduna International Airport, went straight to his private residence, at Sultan road, Unguwan Rimi G.R.A, where he held unofficial discussions with different influential northerners to get their views on how to pick the best hands and brains

to help him run his administration. Sources close to the President revealed that Buhari, who had consulted some former Presidents and Heads of State, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, among others, moved to Kaduna, headquarter of the northern region for consultation and recommendation from trusted friends and loyalists that are not seeking ministerial appointments in his government. One of the sources, who spoke to National Mirror, but did not want his name mentioned, said: “President Buhari is set to announce his cabinet any moment from now, as he is now back from the AU summit.

“Mr. President has to consult at home too for inputs. Those Mr. President may consult from the North are honest, sincere and straightforward people with no ambition of serving in his government. “Those powerful men will tell him the truth about who to work with from any part of our country. After Mr. President’s private consultations in Kaduna and maybe Katsina, his home state, he will seal his list and announce his cabinet members.” The President, according to National Mirror findings, had consulted also with prominent people in the southern region, including the former governor of Lagos State and national leader of the APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, among others over

the pending appointments. However, facts have also emerged that some names earlier considered to form President Buhari’s cabinet have been dropped, while those retained include former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Abdurahman Dambazau (rtd), who is being tipped to become the National Security Adviser, NSA. Those being retained for ministerial appointments, according to National Mirror findings and despite alleged strident opposition from Tinubu to their inclusion, are former governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola and former governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi. Others in the cabinet list are the immediate past governor of Kano State

and now a senator, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former governor of Anambra State, Senator Chris Ngige, among others. National Mirror also gathered that the immediate past governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, may also against all odds, make the President’s ministerial list, even as it was also learnt that retired civil servant per excellence, Ahmed Joda and former Minister of Petroleum Resources under the former President Ibrahim Babangida’s military administration, Prof. Tam DavidWest, may be recalled from retirement to join in running the Buhari administration. Part of the consultations was on who and who would serve the President

as his advisers. This followed the approval, by the seventh Senate, of the President’s request to appoint 15 SAs. Although, efforts to confirm President Buhari’s final decision over his cabinet and SAs during his private visit to Kaduna failed, as his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, was not available for comment, National Mirror can report that the delay in announcing the ministerial list was not unconnected with the President’s desire to assemble the best that Nigeria can produce in terms of human resources to drive the engine of governance to deliver on his campaign promises and the ‘change’ mantra of the governing APC.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Photo

Thursday, June 18, 2015

NEWS

L-R: Member, Advocate for Peoples Rights and Justice, Barr. Solomon Moses; National Coordinator, Barr. Victor Giwa and member, Barr. Jesse Obiyo, during a press briefing on application of the administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 by other relevant agencies to ensure proper dispensation of justice, in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA.

L-R: Zonal Coordinator, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Mr. Fidelis Ajibogun; Group Executive, Technology and Services, FirstBank, Mr. Abdullahi Ibrahim; Director-General, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Mr. Adolphus Ekpe and Deputy Director, Mr. Henry Uwadiae, during a courtesy visit by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission to FirstBank in commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the commission, recently.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Managing Director, Julius Berger Plc, Engr. Detlev Lubasch; Company Secretary, Mrs. Cecilia Madueke and Chairman, Dr. Nurudeen Imam, during the 45th annual general meeting of the company, in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

L-R: Manager, Commercial Integration and Business Venture, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Mr. Taaj Shobayo; Senior Business Advisor to Managing Director, Mr. Ed Ubong; General Manager, Commercial and Non-Operated Venture, Mr. Richard Denny; MD and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, Mr. Osagie Okunbor; Deputy President, NigerianBritish Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Dapo Adelegan; Vice President, Mrs. Theresa Ananyi; Director-General, Mrs. Joyce Akpata and Manager, Business Communication and Campaign Implementation of SPDC, Mr. Eddie Yacim, during the chamber’s visit to Shell in Lagos, recently.

National News

Bombs abandoned by Boko Haram kill 23 in Borno …50 insurgents die in raid INUSA NDAHI

Maiduguri

t least, 23 people have been killed in Borno State when a bag filled with Improvised Explosive Devices, IEDs, exploded accidentally. The IED-filled bag was discovered by operatives of the youth vigilante (Civilian JTF) at a camp deserted by Boko Haram insurgents near Monguno. National Mirror learnt that troops in collaboration with the vigilante had earlier stormed the Boko Haram hideout, where over 50 terrorists were killed. It was further learnt that arms and ammunition, as well as IEDs were abandoned by surviving insurgents, who fled the onslaught. One vigilante, however, carried one of the abandoned IEDs, which he hid

in his bag without the knowledge of military operatives. He allegedly took the bag to Monguno for people to see. Unfortunately, as many residents gathered to see the IEDs, it exploded, living 10 dead on the spot while 13 others, who sustained severe injury, could not make it to Maiduguri for treatment. An operative of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, VGN, Haruna Bukar, told journalists on phone that Civilian-JTF stumbled upon the bag containing metallic substances at the Boko Haram camp. “When they found the bag containing what later turned out to be improvised explosives, they brought it to Monguno town where people gathered to take a look. “As they were busy fiddling with the content of the bag, the IEDs went

off with a massive blast that killed many persons and injured dozens of others. “It was really a very sad incident that affected many families. Most of those affected are young men and a few females,” he said. An officer of the VGN in Maiduguri, Abbas Gava, also confirmed the incident to journalists, even though he did not give the actual number of casualties. “Initially we thought it was a Boko Haram attack as it was being rumored in the town of Maiduguri. “But when we later checked, we discovered that it was somehow an accidental explosion caused by the foolishness of the Civilian-JTF operatives who discovered such a dangerous device and refused to call on the police or military that has the expertise to

handle such things,” Gava said. Sources in Maiduguri said dozens of dismembered bodies were brought into many hospital mortuaries, including the State Specialists Hospital yesterday by security operatives.

Briefing Governor Kashim Shettima who visited the State Specialists Hospital to sympathise with the victims, the Chief Medical Director of the state Hospital Management Board, HMB, Dr. Salisu Kwayabura said, the news of the incident

was received at about 3am yesterday. He said 13 out of the 55 injured victims died while being conveyed to Maiduguri. He added that 13 others have been were treated and discharged, while 28 were still on admission.

port, Abuja. Igwe explained that the operation was ongoing as the government, alongside its Embassy in Saudi Arabia, was working in collaboration with the government of Saudi Arabia to ensure their safe return. “Yemen is at war and the Federal Government directed that Nigerians stranded in Yemen should be evacuated and there are about 58 Nigerians that are stranded there. “However, our Embassy in Saudi Arabia, which we are coordinating with, has been able to get three Nigerians out,” he said.

Igwe said the returnees had undergone the preliminary stages of their resettlement as they have been tested by ports health authorities and have been profiled and registered in the data base. He noted that the Federal Government would continue to assist them until they were fully settled in with proper means of livelihood. Receiving the returnees, the Liaison Officers from Kebbi, Kaduna, and Adamawa States where the returnees hail from, said arrangements had been made for them to reunite with their families.

Nigeria brings back citizens in Yemen

ational Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, on Monday, received the first batch of Nigerians in Yemen as the Federal Government commenced evacuation of its citizens from the crisisridden country. Director-General, NEMA, Mr. Muhammad Sani-Sidi, said the exercise was in line with government’s directive to immediately evacuate Nigerians stranded in Yemen. The DG, represented by Navy Capt. Michael Igwe, Head, Mission Control Centre, NEMA, received the returnees at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Air-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Governors move to probe predecessors CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

done urgently to block revenue loopholes, the country might be plunged into deeper fiscal crisis. They resolved at the end of their meeting in Abuja to meet with the Federal Government to resolve problems precipitated by the downturn in the economy. Reading the communiqué at the end of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, NGF, its chairman and Zamfara State governor, Alhaji Abdullazeez Yari, said they would meet with President Muhammadu Buhari to hand over to him, their template towards resolving the problem. Before former President Goodluck Jonathan left office, the NGF had series of disagreement with the presidency on fiscal issues, especially the excess crude oil receipts, revenue receipts from the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Sovereign Wealth Fund, SWF, and dwindling revenue to the Federation Account. In pledging to work with the President and overcome the problems, the governors emphasised that dwindling resources was not that of states alone, but an issue that had serious national import. On non-payment of salaries and other financial problems, Governor Yari stated: “We discussed that extensively and we are trying to find a lasting solution. We will meet with the President to discuss with him. The Federal Government is also facing similar problem. The problem is not peculiar to state governments alone so, we are working with them to find lasting solutions.” Speaking at the sidelines of the meeting, Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, emphasised that the issue was about halting the “mindless fleecing” of public resources, adding that not only would the mechanisms for plugging loopholes be set in place, but would seek out the stolen funds and retrieve such to where they belonged. Oshiomhole said: “The issue is about government meeting its obligations to the Nigerian people. To stop the fleecing; stop the stealing and get those who had stolen return the

money. We are surprised the excess crude fund has dropped to $2.5bn from over $30bn. How did this happen? No nation makes enough money to feed the greed of its people. “The issue is not about payment of salary. In Edo State, we are paying. We are not in arrears at all. We have paid for last month, but the issues is not that (about paying workers salary) because even the Bible said the labourer deserves his wage. Nothing justifies the situation in which we find ourselves now. “A situation where what accrues to the states is less than what is required to pay workers; I think there are a couple of issues. “Governors are prepared to assist in plugging all loopholes. You don’t need to witchunt anybody, just plug the loopholes. The crisis we face now, concerning huge debts in the public sector; if we don’t pay contractors, for instance, the day they lay off their workers, we have a greater problem to contend with. “We shall speak with Mr. President because he also is inheriting huge debt stock and there is no money to do anything. So, he also needs our advise. I guess these are issues we need to discuss objectively and see how we get out of it so that never again shall we get to this problem.” Earlier, the All Progressives Congress, APC, Governors Forum and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Governors Forum held their separate meetings where they also lamented the dwindling revenue at both the states and federal levels. The governors also sympathised with the North East people, especially on the destruction of lives and property in the zone, stressing they would forge a common front to assist the zone. Meanwhile, National Bureau of Statistics, NBS, yesterday put the Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, of 23 states at about N587.75bn last year, with Lagos State raking in about N276.16bn or 46.99 per cent of the revenue accruals. However, the report showed that Abia, Adamawa, Borno, Cross River, Ebonyi, Edo, Kano, Ondo, Taraba and Yobe states did not provide the agency

their revenue accruals for the year under review. In the report, which was jointly produced by NBS/ Joint Tax Board/State Boards of Internal Revenue, the IGR covered Pay As You Earn, PAYE, Direct Assessment, Road Taxes and Other Revenue. A breakdown of the

IGR collections on value basis showed that Lagos State topped the list with N276.16bn, followed by Rivers State with N89.11bn, while Delta State grossed N42.82bn. Enugu collected N19.25bn, Ogun State raked in N17.50bn; Oyo State came fifth N16.31bn,

Akwa Ibom, N15.68bn, Kaduna, N12.78bn, Bayelsa, N10.96bn and Anambra, N10.45bn. Also, Osun State raked in N8.51bn, compared to Benue’s, N8.28b and Plateau, N8.28bn. Imo State generated N8.12bn, Kogi, N6.57bn, and Katsina, N6.22bn.

A further analysis of the IGR indicated that Niger State grossed N5.74bn, while Sokoto collected N5.62bn. Bauchi collected N4.85bn, Nasarawa, N4.09bn, Kebbi, N3.83bn, Ekiti, N3.46bn and Zamfara, with the least IGR of N3.15bn.

L-R: Central Bank of Nigeria Manager, Birnin Kebbi, Amina Umar; Special Assistant to CBN Governor, Paul Eluhaiwe and Kebbi State Governor Atiku Bagudu, during their visit to the governor in Birnin Kebbi, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Lawmakers kick against pay cuts CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

of the legislators told National Mirror that the issue is not with the lawmakers, but the huge allowances, which are difficult to defend before the electorate. He said: “When people complain about the jumbo pay for lawmakers, what they are referring to is the allowances, which is not captured by the Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Allocation Commission, RMFAC, but are accommodated from the National Assembly budget.” The lawmaker also explained that he has issues with the resources his colleagues appropriate from Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government, MDAs, during oversight visits, which are also not captured by the revenue commission. Meanwhile, the TUC said the planned payment of N8.64bn to the lawmakers marked high level of inhuman conduct, especially at a time workers in over 23 states were yet to be paid their salaries. TUC, in a statement by its president, Comrade

Bobboi Kaigama and Secretary General, Comrade Musa Lawal, described as more worrisome, the fact that most governors who owed workers’ salaries were either re-elected in the last general elections or now members of the National Assembly. The congress charged politicians not to betray Nigerians again, because of the grave sacrifice the people made to ensure that the much-touted “change” is entrenched in all facets of our national life. “If the ‘change’ we expect must come, this administration must review the provisions of the constitution that expressly stipulate such privileges for political office-holders. “The cost of governance in our country is outrageously high and unsustainable and we may resort to civil disobedience or other legal measures to compel a reduction of same if nothing is done about it in the nearest future.” TUC said. The congress lamented

the display of affluence by politicians even on social media, explaining that the only difference between the Nigerians who live in slums and those squandering the commonwealth is misappropriated opportunity. “Considering the nation’s present socio-economic realities, it is totally indefensible for senators and members of the House of Representatives to be paid as much as N2m and N1.8m respectively as basic salary every month. “Where then lies any justification for their claims to being contributors to the growth of a nation where unemployment and other social vices are the order of the day “The enormous cost of governance contributes immensely to the economic crises rocking the Nigerian boat. How is this huge amount justifiable in the light of the current financial dilemma the nation is overwhelmed with? “What do the legislators, who often turn down proposals for wage increase for the workers,

do to deserve these mindblowing sums of money? “We think it is high time Nigerians take their destiny in their hands and stand firm against these injustices and inequality. “We urge the Federal Government to remember its campaign promises which include monthly allowances for unemployed graduates, fight against corruption and insecurity, provision of quality infrastructure, etc. Nigerians cannot wait to see the promised change. “While we commend the National Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, for commencing the process of revoking licences awarded to power generating companies who failed to live up to the terms and milestones specified in their contracts, we also wish to discourage them from further increase in tariff. “On states that owe their workers, we demand prompt payment immediately to ensure continued peaceful industrial environment. Please do not steal our ‘change’ again,” the congress added.

News

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Days of unremitted funds by govt agencies over –Saraki GEORGE OJI ABUJA

enate President, Bukola Saraki, has warned that Federal Government will no longer tolerate delayed or non-remittance of all revenue due to it. He regretted that noncompliance by agencies of government to remit collected revenue has continued to negatively affect governance and stressed that government would henceforth punish agencies that default. Saraki gave this directive when he hosted Chairman of the Revenue

Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC, Engr. Elias Mbam, and his team in his office at the National Assembly, Abuja, yesterday. The Senate President stated, “Monetary revenue and allocation is a serious challenge to our economy. Though, diversification of economy is very important, but it is not an overnight issue. We must block every leakage in government revenue. “We made campaign promises to Nigerians and must fulfill all our pledges. It cannot be business as usual. We will do everything within our capacity

to elevate the living standard of Nigerians.” Commenting on the reported N8.64 billion wardrobe allowance for members of the National Assembly, Saraki explained that fixing of remunerations for public office holders, including lawmakers remains the sole responsibilities of the commission and not any other agency of government. Earlier, RMAFC boss, Mbam, restated the cordial relationship that had always existed between his commission and members of the National Assembly and wished it continues.

Mbam condemned media report that exaggerated wardrobe allowances for Senators and members of the House of Representatives, saying that wardrobe allowance was 25 percent of the basic salary, which when broken down amounts to N506,600 per legislator, per annum. Meanwhile, Saraki has restated commitment of the Senate to conclude passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, in no distant time. Saraki, who spoke while hosting Managing Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, Osagie Okunbor,

and his team in his office yesterday, pointed out that Senate will continue to embrace dialogue to fast-track easy passage of the bill. He noted that PIB remains a priority bill in the Senate, adding, “We have to engage discussion and dialogue. We can break the jinx which can only be achieved devoid of politics. PIB is a priority in this Senate.” Commenting on the issue of environmental hazard, gas flaring and remuneration to host communities, Saraki assured that the Senate will collaborate with oil companies and other stakeholders to

find lasting solutions to all aggrieved parties. He stated that on the part of the Senate, “We will continue to come up with legislation that will make our country an investment destination and provide conducive environment for such investment to thrive.” Reacting, SPDC Managing Director, Okunbor, congratulated the Senate President for his successful election while pledging unflinching support to the Senate. He said the survival of petroleum industry depends greatly on passage of PIB.

Buhari’s age an asset –Presidency ROTIMI FADEYI ABUJA

he Presidency yesterday said at 72, President Muhammadu Buhari has in quantum the wisdom, patience, temperance and forbearance that age brings. A statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, said the virtues possessed by Buhari considering his age have been brought to the Presidency to make a difference in national life. Adesina was reacting to reports, which quoted Buhari as saying that his age may affect his perfor-

mance in office. The statement said at 72, the Buhari persona has not changed, stressing that he remains the simple, honest, incorruptible patriot he has always been. Adesina added that all the virtues and values of the Buhari persona would be deployed into governance in the weeks and months ahead. The statement said, “On Monday evening, President Buhari spoke with the Nigerian community at the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg, South Africa. Speaking extempore, because, according to him, he wanted to “speak from the heart,” the Presi-

dent urged them to be good ambassadors of Nigeria, a country he went to the warfront to keep together. “Still extolling the virtues of our country, Nigeria, the President, who had served as a military governor of the then NorthEastern State at 33 years old, declared: “I wish I became Head of State when I was a governor. Now at 72, there is a limit to what I can do.” The above comments have been reported by some newspapers to mean that the President was saying he was too old to cope with the demands of his office. Far from it! “As the saying goes,

Old wines are tasty and the President Buhari we have today is a man, like old wine, that has gotten tastier. At 72, yes, he can’t be called a youth, but he has in quantum of wisdom, the patience, temperance and forbearance that age brings. And all these virtues he has brought to the Presidency to make a difference in our national life,” the statement added. “The President assured the Nigerian community in South Africa that his administration will make a positive impact on the country. And that he would do. “Insecurity as symbolised by insurgency will

be brought to an end, corruption will be fought to a standstill, employment will be created for the teeming army of unemployed, the economy will be revived, and the quality of life of Nigerians will take an upward swing again. These will not come by a sudden flight, but they will happen in the life of this administration. “At 72, the Buhari persona has not changed. He remains the simple, honest, incorruptible patriot he has always been. And because Nigerians earnestly desired change, that was why they voted for him overwhelmingly at the general elections in

March, this year, all the virtues and values of the Buhari persona will be deployed into governance in the weeks and months ahead. “The Nigerian community in South Africa was enthralled as President Buhari spoke with them on Monday. In fact, leaving the venue was an effort, as they swarmed round the President, who shook hands with as many of them as he could. “They took his message well. That is the essence of good wine. It gets better with age. And it is a message for all Nigerians, both at home and in the Diaspora,” the statement added.

Military to operate from Maiduguri in 21 days UBONG UKPONG

igerian military yesterday announced that its Command and Control Centre recently relocated to Maiduguri, Borno State, would commence full operations within the next 21 days, even as the Centre has taken delivery of high-tech equipment and additional operations personnel. In a statement issued in Abuja through its Director of Army Public Relations, DAPR, Colonel Sani Usman, the military said the installation of high-tech

equipment were expected to be completed within the period. Upon taking over power, President Muhammadu Buhari, in his inaugural speech, directed the military Command and Control to move from Abuja to Maiduguri, to combat the Boko Haram menace. Equally, the Nigerian Army last week announced the deployment of a reconnaissance and an advance team for establishment of the Military Command and Control Centre, MCCC, in Maiduguri and Yola. Similarly, the Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lt-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, and that

of Air Staff, Air Marshal Adesola Amosu, last Tuesday, had since taken over control and commenced operations at MCCC. According to Colonel Usman in the statement, “The installations of hi-tech equipment, infrastructural development of the Centre and posting of additional operations staff have also commenced. “These are to be completed within 21 days when MCCC would be fully operational.” With the establishment of the Centre, he said, all strategic and operational decisions on the fight against terrorism and in-

surgency would emanate from the MCCC. “This will ensure faster response time; improve situational awareness and better coordination of all stakeholders. “The centre will also give the needed impetus that would ensure prosecution and successful conclusion of the war against terrorism. “It will also provide the required interface between the Armed Forces of Nigeria and Multi-National Joint Task Force to be deployed at the Lake Chad Basin area at the end of the month of July 2015,” he said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, June 18, 2015

CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA www.cbn.gov.ng

INVITATION TO TENDER FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF A TRADE MONITORING SYSTEM(FOREX FORMS AUTOMATION) RFP NUMBER: CBN/ITD/RFP/TRMS/2015/004 1.0 INTRODUCTION: 1.1 One of the core mandates of the Central Bank of Nigeria (hereafter referred to as “CBN” or “the Bank”) is the maintenance of the country’s external reserves in order to safeguard the international value of the legal tender currency. Also, the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring & Miscellaneous Provisions) Act of 1995 empowers the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to prescribe guidelines for export and import trade transactions in collaboration with relevant agencies of government.

e.) f.) g.) h.) i.) j.)

1.2 The Central Bank of Nigeria, leveraging on the initiative of the modernization project of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) by the Federal Government of Nigeria, integrated its requirements of a Trade Monitoring System (TRMS) into the Nigeria Single Window for Trade (NSW). CBN in collaboration with NCS, therefore, automated the Form “M” in Phase I of the Project for “Automation of Forex forms”. The other three forms (“NXP” (Commercial Export), “NCX” (Non Commercial Export), and “A” (Invisible Trades) are still being processed manually.

Verifiable evidence of similar jobs successfully executed in the past. Reference letter from bank stating financial ability of the Vendor to carry out such project(s). Current company’s audited statement of accounts. Current Pension Clearance Certificate from PENCOM Evidence of Compliance Certificate with the provisions of section 6(1) (3) of the amended Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Act No.19 of 2011 Evidence of registration with Financial Reporting Council (FRC)

3.1 SPECIFIC REQUIREMENT Details are contained in the Request for Proposal (RFP) and Bidding Document. 4.0 COLLECTION OF BID DOCUMENTS Interested Service Providers who possess the above minimum requirements may collect the bidding documents on the payment of a non-refundable fee of N50,000.00 (Bank Draft in favour of Central Bank of Nigeria) from:

1.3 The CBN intends to execute the Phase II of the initiative being the automation of the other forex forms (i.e. Forms “NXP”, “NCX” and “A”) as well as some enhancements to the already automated form “M”.

The Secretary, Major Contracts Tenders Committee 2nd Floor, Wing C CBN Head Office Complex, Central Business District, Abuja, FCT Nigeria. Phone No: 09-462-37216

1.4 The CBN now invites sealed bids from qualified bidders for the design, development, installation, testing and commissioning of a Trade Monitoring System (Forex Forms Automation). Training, maintenance and support should be part of the bid. This Request for Proposal (RFP) is being extended to a set of eligible and competent Vendors. 1.5 Proposals from single vendors or from multiple vendors working together as a team would both be considered. The ideal vendor(s) would have certified and relevant knowledge and verifiable capacity and experience in the software industry. Experience in the public or banking sector is preferred, but not mandatory. 2.0 SCOPE OF WORK The scope of this RFP is to seek for proposals for a Trade Monitoring System (Forex Forms Automation) for the Central Bank of Nigeria. The minimum specified work to be undertaken by the bidders has been captured as follows: • The development of a Trade Monitoring System by the automation of the following trade forms • Form “NXP” (Commercial Export) • Form “NCX” (Non Commercial Export) • Form “A” (Invisible Trades) • Integrating the database and workflow of various operational processes associated with the automated forms on the Nigeria Single Window for Trade (NSW) • Provide a central database in CBN with ability to mirror and replicate synchronously with the Database at the NSW • Development of the interface between the TRMS and the CBN banking application Temenos T24. • Enhancement of the already automated Form “M” on the NSW • Comprehensive training of all related stakeholders. • Implementation services • Support services • Maintenance services 3.0

a.) b.) c.) d.)

GENERAL REQUIREMENT Interested and competent Vendors wishing to provide the above service to CBN must submit the following documents for verification:Evidence of certificate of incorporation and registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Certified true copy of Memorandum and Article of Association Evidence of payment of tax for the last three (3) years as at when due. Comprehensive company profile including registered office address, functional contact email address, GSM phone number(s), facsimile number(s).

5.0 SUBMISSION The submission shall be in two separate envelopes as follows; a) The general requirements should be submitted in a wax sealed envelope boldly marked at the top left corner:“Prequalification and Technical Proposal for the “DEVELOPMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF A TRADE MONITORING SYSTEM (FOREX FORMS AUTOMATION) FOR THE CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA’’ b) The Financial Proposal should be submitted in a second, wax sealed envelope boldly marked at the top left corner:Financial Proposal for the “DEVELOPMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF A TRADE MONITORING SYSTEM (FOREX FORMS AUTOMATION) FOR THE CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA” And addressed to:The Secretary, Major Contracts Tenders Committee 2nd Floor, Wing C CBN Head Office Complex, Central Business District, Abuja, FCT Nigeria. Fax NO: 09-462-38239 Phone: 09-462-37216 E-mail: mctc@cbn.gov.ng or tenders@cbn.gov.ng 6.0

CLOSING DATE All submissions must be received at the above address not later than 12:00 noon on the 29th July 2015

7.0

OPENING DATE The prequalification and Technical Proposal will be opened immediately, after close of submission of the bid on the 29th of July, 2015.

8.0 A)

IMPORTANT NOTICE Nothing in the advert shall be construed to be a commitment on the part of the CBN. The successful company(s) will be notified formally, published and posted on the CBN website (www.cbn.gov.ng) and notice boards in CBN locations.

Signed:

MANAGEMENT CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA

South West

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Police uncover ritual killers’ den in Ogun ...arrest five over mutilated Poly student

Femi Oyeweso ABEOKUTA

en and officers of Ogun State police command have discovered a shrine in EposoAkaka community of Isara Remo in Remo North Local Government Area where human flesh were allegedly eaten, sold and used for rituals. Police also arrested five suspects in connection with the crime and ownership of the shrine where severed

body parts suspected to be that of a missing female student of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, located at Saapade area of the state, was found decomposing. The 21-year-old female student of Science Laboratory Technology department, identified as Morenikeji Owolabi, was allegedly lured to the shrine on Saturday, June 6, by a commercial motorcyclist identified as Ademolu before the police eventually discovered the

shrine last Monday, June 15, on receiving information about the incident. Commissioner of Police, Val Ntomchukwu, who led reporters to the shrine where dismembered bodies of Morenikeji and other victims were found, said the prime suspect identified as Femi Awise, who is a herbalist, is still at large. Ntomchukwu gave names of the five suspects arrested and detained at Divisional Police Headquarters, Isara-

Remo, to include 29-year-old Adeyemi Ademolu; Lateef Ali, 23; Dare Akinyemi, 22; Wasiu Sotola, 23, and Taiwo Omolaso, 22. The CP disclosed that the five suspects, including a commercial motorcyclist that conveyed the victim to the scene would soon be arraigned in court on completion of investigation. Ntomchukwu appealed to members of the public to always volunteer information to the police, noting that if

the command had gotten the report on time, it might have stopped the crime. “What we want to tell the public is that they should monitor the movement of their wards and children, especially when they are left to be in school and other public institutions. They should always watch over their children, call them regularly and where they don’t see them, they should quickly report to the police. “If we had received this report on time, we would have been able to trace this lady. By the time we got the report, we now started scouting for information, only to arrest the okada man (motorcyclist) that brought her to this particular place. “It was from that okada man that we were able to know that she was taken to this area and by discreet investigation, we were able to discover this shrine. We

don’t know how long this shrine has been in existence, but we assure you that this particular nefarious activity would be put to an end.” The police boss urged members of the community to be watchful and always cooperate with the police by providing information that would expose suspected criminals. As at the time journalists were led to the scene Tuesday night in company of the police rescue team, an iron pot filled with cooked human flesh was laid on a stand, oozing putrid odour. The decomposing legs of the victim were dug out of a shallow grave they were buried few metres from the shrine. Human flesh apparently cooked and butchered into pieces was seen in a black pot, while the right limb of the victim was seen in a nearby shallow grave.

Lagos clarifies dissolution of boards

L L-R: Member, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Segun Olulade; Speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa and State Chairman, National Union of Road Transport Workers, Alhaji Tajudeen Agbede, during Agbede’s visit to the speaker in Lagos, yesterday.

NSCDC hails revocation of pipeline contracts

...stakeholders seek stiffer sanctions against security quacks Femi Oyeweso ABEOKUTA

ommandant-General of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Dr. Ade Abolurin, yesterday described the Federal Government’s revocation of pipeline surveillance and protection contracts earlier granted to ethnic militias as the best decision in the collective interest of the citizenry. Abolurin gave the commendation while speaking with journalists yesterday in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, shortly after delivering his address at a 4-day workshop organised by the College of Security Management of NSCDC in collaboration with the Institute of Security Studies, Lagos. Abolurin, who was represented at the workshop by

NSCDC Zonal Commandant in charge of Zone “F”, Assistant Commandant-General Jacobs Amujare, stressed that quacks tend to compromise security standards to the detriment of citizens when allowed to thrive in the country’s security circle. Abolurin’s commendation of the Federal Government’s decision was, however, coming on the heels of government’s revocation of the pipeline surveillance and protection contract earlier awarded to many independent ethnic militias, which included the Oodua People’s Congress, OPC, and the Niger Delta militia group by the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. “Since they are not well trained, they wouldn’t know the nitty-gritty of the job. Therefore, it is better to have well trained security

agencies handle such things more so as it regards pipeline vandalism in Nigeria.” Earlier in his address at the workshop, tagged “Strategic security management for change in private security practice,” Provost of NSCDC Security College, Commandant Iskil Makinde explained that the workshop was packaged together for the purpose of familiarising operators of the licenced private security guard companies with the developments in government policies in matters of security. Emphasising that security situation in the country called for a collaborative efforts between government and private sectors, Makinde also stated that whoever is to be engaged by the licenced private security guard companies must have been trained by NSCDC and certified capable and free of

any crime, stressing that the era of picking anybody on the streets and kitting such with security guard uniforms were gone. At the workshop which had in attendance about 100 Chief Executive Officers of the Licensed Private Security Guard Practitioners of Nigeria drawn from across the country, the stakeholders called on federal government to further evolve a stiffer penalty against any quacks and unregistered security organisation caught in the security practice across the country. The stakeholders, under the auspices of Association of Licensed Private Security Guard Practitioners of Nigeria, ALPSGPN, stressed that such move would bring about standardisation in security practice across the country.

agos State government says heads of government agencies and parastatals were not affected by the dissolution of boards as recently directed by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. The clarification was contained in a statement signed by Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tunji Bello, yesterday in Lagos. The government in the statement announced that the House of Assembly Commission is also exempted from the dissolution directive.

“The clarification had become necessary because of different wrong interpretations given to the media announcement of the dissolution,” the statement said. The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that Governor Ambode had on Monday approved the dissolution of all boards of parastatals and agencies of government in the state. The state’s Civil Service Commission, Judicial Service Commission and the State Independent Electoral Commission were also exempted from the directive.

Woman found dead in Ondo Ojo Oyewamide AKURE

esidents of Olu Foam area of Akure, Ondo State capital, yesterday morning found a woman, Seyi Adewumi, hanging dead in an uncompleted building near her home. Cause of death of the 40-year-old mother of two was yet-to-be ascertained as at press time. A resident, who spoke with journalists, described the deceased as a gentle and friendly housewife. Husband of the deceased, Gbenga Adewumi, expressed shock over the tragedy, saying he only just

returned home from a vigil. He said: “Last night (Tuesday night), I went to a vigil organised by our church. I left her in the house hale and hearty. “But to my surprise, I got back home this morning and saw some of our neighbours gathering in front of our house. They broke the news to me and took me where she hung.” Adewumi, who described the incident as a mystery, wondered why his wife would commit suicide. State Police Public Relations Officer, Wole Ogodo, said on phone that he had not been contacted at the time of filing this report.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Book sellers lament low Patronage

INSIDE

Why street trading culture thrives on Broad Street

Lagos Island car parks, an untapped revenue asset >47

>48

Broad Street Diary

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Water house on Broad Street

Reminiscences of early Lagos settlers

hat is today known as Lagos is a city where a host of African returnees from Brazil, Portugal and Cuba resettled after the abolition of the slave trade. According to historians, the word ‘Lagos’ means Lagoon and the city was so named because it took very much in terms of its physical and geographical features after Lagos- a small coastal town in Portugal. It is not surprising that another historical account says that the word ‘Lagos’ is derived from the Portuguese word “Lagos de Curamo”. A writer, L.C Leard in the Nigerian Magazine published in 1953 writes “The official discovery of Lagos, according to my [sic] research, can be ascribed

to one of two Portuguese sailors –either Lancelot de Freitas or Gonclaves de Cintra. “I’m inclined to think the odds are Lancelot de Freitas, after all he was a local “Lagosian” in the year 1450 whereas Gonclaves came from Cintra or Sintra [as his name suggests] and returned from his voyage down the African coast in 1461.” Besides these early settlers in the city of Lagos, other notable figures included, an ex-slave and clergyman, Samuel Ajayi Crowther, who returned to Africa in 1864. It was learnt that on his arrival, he settled in Lagos and located the headquarters of his church in the city from where he made missionary incursions into the hinterland of the Yoruba.

BESIDES THESE EARLY SETTLERS IN THE CITY OF LAGOS, OTHER NOTABLE FIGURES INCLUDED, AN EX-SLAVE AND CLERGYMAN SAMUEL AJAYI CROWTHER

Our correspondent gathered that other prominent settlers and indigenes were; a surveyor and nationalist, Herbert Macaulay, an urbane lawyer, Sir Kitoye Ajasa, a politician, Akanni Doherty, a horse -racing promoter, Sir Adeyemo Alakija, notable wealthy merchants, Joao Essan Da Rocha, Taiwo Olowo and another businessman, J.A Ajao of Ajao and Brothers at Elegbaata Street, Lagos among others. Although these early settlers are no more, not many Lagos residents, beyond historical accounts, really know the depth of their contributions to the socio-political development of the country. For instance, Macaulay who was prominent, could be remembered for his nationalism quest when the Nigerian National Democratic Party was formed in 1923, but not many youths of this generation are aware that he lived on Odunlami Street, a few metres away from the CSS Bookshop House, Lagos. An Octogenarian, Pa. Dele Oduyemi, who lived on the Island in the late 50s up to early 60s, said “Macaulay was a very

vibrant politician who wrote several articles in the newspaper criticizing the colonial policies. He lived around Tinubu and Odunlami Street, Lagos.” He said because of Macaulay’s fiery stance, the politician was given a host of nicknames including “Wizard of the Kirsten Hall” and “Ejo N’gboro “ He said that the politician took ill in the train while on his way to the North for a political activity in 1946, adding that “he died and was buried in Lagos.” In Macaulay’s memory, two statues were erected in front of the CSS Bookshop House on Broad Street, Lagos and on Herbert Macaulay Street, Sabo, Yaba respectively. He also said Da Rocha, was a wealthy and successful merchant who lived on Kakawa Street, Lagos behind the highrise CSS Bookshop House. He said “Da Rocha’s house was often called Water House because he sold water to the residents in the area.’’ Da Rocha’s imposing one-storey mansion is a visible sight on Kakawa/ Broad Street junction. It was learnt that after his death in the late 1950s, he was buried in Ikoyi cemetery.

An 82-year old retired postmaster, Pa Ishola Abudu, corroborated this assertion and recalled that Alakija was a successful horse- racing promoter in those days. His words, ‘’Sir Adeyemo was very prominent and well -known for his active involvement in social and sporting events. He was very visible in Race Course and was one of the founders of the elite Island Club.” Abudu also recalled that Olowo belonged to the class of individuals who founded village settlements in Lagos, adding that after his death, he was buried on Broad Street and a monument was built on his tomb. He said “His descendants have always kept his memory alive and his tomb is usually painted white regularly.” A Septuagenarian, Pa James Kehinde, said Ajasa was a notable lawyer who was closer to the colonial authorities and often applauded their policies while Doherty was one of the pioneer leaders of the defunct of the Action Group.

- Francis Famoroti

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ikeja Electric to distribute 2,000 smart meters, says official

keja Electric, a distribution company, said yesterday it would begin distribution of 2,000 units of smart meters at the end of June under its pilot scheme. Mr. Pekun Adeyanju, Assistant General Manager, Public Affairs, told the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, that another 5,000 meters would be installed in July. The smart meter is a new technology in power consumption measurement that ensures regular interface between electricity providers and consumers. It is both pre-paid and post-paid meter. Adeyanju said: “Ikeja Electric will distribute 2,000 units of smart meters by the end of June and another 5,000 units in July under the pilot scheme. “Consumers, who engage in illegalities such as bypassing the meters in their homes, will be checkmated by the smart meters.” He disclosed that about 12,000 and 15,000 units of the meter would be distributed in subsequent months. His words: “We will also distribute between 12,000 and 15,000 units of the meters in subsequent months.’’

Adeyanju said the electricity company had invested $100 million (about N20 billion) in the smart meter technology to boost its services. Meanwhile, the Eko Electricity Distribution Company, EKEDC, said it has installed 5,400 units of smart meters between April and June. “We have installed 5,400 smart meters within the zone in the last three months,’’ Mr Godwin Idemudia, the Assistant General Manager, Public Affairs, told NAN yesterday. He, however, appealed to customers to apply for the smart meters under the company’s Credited Advance Payment for Metering Implementation (CAPMI) scheme. He promised that the meters would be made available within 45 days after payment. According to him, a onephase smart meter costs N39,650 while three-phase meter costs N68,906. Idemudia said the new meter would address all sharp practices and problems associated with crazy or estimated bills and bypassing of meters.

Dangote donates $1m to Nepal’s earthquake victims

angote Foundation yesterday donated $1 million to Nepal over the earthquake that killed thousands of people in May. Two major devastating earthquakes with a magnitude of 7.3 and 7.8, respectively, had occurred in Nepal on May 12, 2015, killing more than 8,800 people and injuring over 23,000 others. The earthquake was reported to have shifted the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest, by 3cm South-West. Dangote Foundation donated the amount in line with its mandate of providing relief in times of disaster, with a message that chairman of the Foundation, Aliko Dangote, and the people of Nigeria share in their moment of grief. Chief executive officer of the Foundation, Zouera Youssoufou, said on behalf of Dangote during the cheque presentation to Prime Minister of Nepal, Mr. Sushil Koilara in Kath-

South West

Thursday, June 18, 2015

mandu, the country’s capital, the gesture was to support government’s emergency efforts in providing relief for victims of the earthquake. Dangote conveyed his sympathy to the government and people of Nepal, assuring them of the Foundation’s support in rehabilitating victims of the unprecedented tragedy. Responding to the gesture, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude of the people and government of Nepal to Dangote and the Foundation, for the humanitarian support in this difficult moment in his country’s history. Dangote Foundation has been touching lives both within and outside the shores of Nigeria since its establishment in 1993, providing opportunities for social and economic transformation through investments and interventions that improve and promote health and education, and broaden economic empowerment opportunities.

Lagos CJ frees 21 inmates from Kirikiri Prisons Matthew Irinoye

hief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade, yesterday freed 21 inmates of Medium Security Prisons, Kirikiri, Lagos. The freed inmates were awaiting trial before the favour granted them. In releasing the inmates, the CJ acted on the powers conferred on her under Section 1 (1) of the Criminal Justice Release from Custo-

dy Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2007. She urged the freed inmates to be of good behaviour as they return to the society, adding that they should stay away from crime. The CJ admitted that the challenge of prison congestion was a recurrent one. She expressed regret that awaiting trial inmates constitute a sizable number of prison population. The Lagos judiciary head, however, assured that

her visit to prisons to exercise her statutory powers would not be a one-off exercise, as she promised to make further visits for the same purpose. The medium prison, which has capacity for 1,700 inmates, now holds 2,452 in the open, 92 convicted, and about 2,349 awaiting trial; while 32 are detainees. Earlier in his speech, Deputy Commissioner of Prisons, DCP, Kirikiri Medium Prisons, Mr. Kayode

Odeyemi, thanked the CJ for the gesture, saying his administration would ensure synergy with other arms of the criminal justice system for effective jail delivery, which would give legal freedom to inmates and also decongest the highly populated medium prison. The DCP also urged the CJ to implore the executive arms of government in the state to provide vehicles, buses and trucks to convey prison inmates to courts.

A truck driver (left) who lost control of his vehicle and hit the median, causing serious injury to himself in a lone accident at IjebuOde-Sagamu road in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State, yesterday.

Ekiti to confiscate properties used for kidnapping Abiodun Nejo ADO EKITI

enceforth, any building, farm land or property harbouring criminals or discovered to be used for criminal activities in Ekiti State would be confiscated or demolished by the state government. The government added that owners of such properties would also be sanctioned heavily and treated as collaborators. These were part of resolutions reached at a meeting of the state government with traditional rulers and leaders of some non-Ekiti indigenes resident in areas noted as hide-out for kidnappers in the state. This resolve is coming against the recent spate of kidnapping and other crimes in the state. The meeting, which held at the deputy governor’s of-

fice, was attended by representatives of Commissioner of Police and Director of State Security Services in Ekiti State. Deputy Governor, Dr. Kolapo Olusola, frowned at the spate of kidnapping in Ekiti State, which he noted was adjudged the most peaceful and with lowest crime rate in Nigeria before now. Olusola, who said kidnapping and some other criminal activities now a recurring decimal in the state were alien to Ekiti, adding that those kidnappers would not have been successful in their operations if there had not been collaborators in those communities, hence the need to urgently address the issue before they grow out of hand. He called on the traditional rulers whose domain had been identified as kidnappers’ hideouts to hold meetings with their subjects

and other ethnic groups living in their community to be vigilant and report immediately any suspicious movement in their areas to security agents before criminals carry out their nefarious acts. The deputy governor also praised the efforts of the security agents in securing the release of a Catholic priest, Rev. Father Emmanuel Akingbade, on Tuesday without the payment of any ransom. He charged leaders of the various ethnic groups from outside the state to caution their kinsmen living in those areas and in Ekiti State generally to be careful and avoid harbouring any criminal because most of the suspects arrested over the kidnap saga so far are not Ekiti State indigenes. Representatives of the Commissioner of Police, Mr. AbdulKadir Moham-

med and the Director of the State Security Services, Mr. M. C. Odika, also lauded the cooperation of the government and the people so far and called for more timely information from the people. The security top ranks who said people should go about their lawful business without panic, assured that the police would be relentless and work round the clock to ensure that peace and security are restored in Ekiti State. The Elesure of EsureEkiti, Oba Adebanji Ajibola and the Olugbole of IgboleEkiti, Oba Emmanuel Adetiloye, who in their separate remarks explained their various personal efforts and that of their communities to assist the security agents, noted that security officers need to be more pro-active and respond more quickly to distress calls.

News

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ramadan begins today in Nigeria, S’Arabia, others • Borno reviews curfew in Maiduguri Inusa Ndahi MAIDUGURI

everal countries across the world, including Nigeria, will today begin the one month-long Ramadan. Saudi Arabia, birthplace of Islam, announced yesterday that today would be final day of the lunar month of Sha’aban. Similar official announcements were made by religious authorities in Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Yemen and Palestine. Reports said the beginning and end of Ramadan

depends on the sighting of the new moon. “During Ramadan, devout Muslims abstain from eating, drinking and smoking from dawn to sunset. “Ramadan this year coincides with the summer heat in the Middle East where the fast could reach 15 hours a day. “Fasting is one of Islam’s five pillars, alongside declaration of faith, prayer five times a day, alms-giving, and the pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia,’’ it said. Meanwhile, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State has called for strict adherence to the dictates of

Nutritionists, health practitioners decry low malnutrition awareness

articipants, including various nutritionists and health practitioners, have expressed concern on the need for more awareness on increased nutrient intake, as a way of reducing the alarming rate of malnutrition in the society. During a forum in Abuja, and a public presentation of the study on the “status of malnutrition at the National and three focal states”, organised by the Civil Society for Scaling up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN), it was reliably gathered that the low level of understanding on good nutrition had been responsible for the rate of malnutrition in Nigeria. The study, which was meant to create awareness and bring to the fore roles and responsibilities of stakeholders in the National Strategic Plan of Action for Nutrition, NSPAN, was as a result of the need to call attention of relevant stakeholders and government agencies to take urgent actions to support the scale up of food and nutrition programmes nationally and globally, following slow progress in addressing malnutrition and mortality. The review, which was based on key drivers of malnutrition, using UNICEF’s conceptual framework for causes of malnutrition, had its major focus on child malnutrition and its determinants over time in Kaduna, Nassarawa and Niger states of Nigeria. Dr Yinka Adekugbe of Save the Children Interna-

tional, in her remarks on the occasion noted that there was a reality in the fact that malnutrition is a major issue in Nigeria, and as such, combating the menace requires a collective responsibility of government and everyone in creating more awareness for good nutrition. Discussing the study findings and recommendations, Dr Kola Anigo of Ahmadu Bello University, who is the study lead person emphasised on the need for the three focal states to take steps to see that, where there are policy gap, they should try to close them as malnutrition is worse in northern Nigeria. Anigo also called on the relevant government institutions to conduct periodic food and nutrition survey, insisting that “it is time for Nigerians to take it as a priority.” Representing Head of Nutrition, Federal Ministry of Health, Joseph Gbenga, applauded the initiative which he said was a call for all stakeholders to perform their duties and responsibilities, so that the current status can be improved upon and there can be better indices in subsequent evaluation. The report indicated that trends in nutritional status of children under five, showed proportion of children stunted declined from 42% in 2003 to 37% in 2013 while wasting and underweight increased from 11 to 18 and 24 to 29 respectively within the same period.

Islam. In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Habib Aruna, Ambode said Ramadan signifies a month of piety and total abstinence from food and all vices for all believers. While urging that the period of abstinence should also accentuate orderly behaviour and obedience to constituted authority, the governor said with the fear of God, people will obey all laws. He said all Muslims must ensure that the abstinence from all vices which is embraced during Ramadan period should become an everyday affair because in doing so each person would be at peace with him or herself. Speaker, Lagos House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, also urged Muslim faithful to use the period to pray

for peace and unity to reign in the country. The Speaker in his Ramadan greeting to Muslims on the commencement of the 30-day fast, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Musbau Rasak, described the period as one of sober reflection which gives Muslims opportunity to move closer to Allah and seek His face in supplication and prayers. Obasa stated that with the present situation of things in the country, there is a need for all Nigerians to seize the opportunity brought about by the fasting to pray for Nigeria’s unity and for peace to reign in the country. The Lagos Assembly Speaker stated further that one major feature of the period is sharing of love, hence there is need for Muslims to share love not only among

themselves but also among adherents of other religions which will engender brotherliness among Nigerians. In a related development, Borno State government yesterday reviewed the curfew imposed on Maiduguri and its environs following the start of Ramadan. Maiduguri, the state capital of Borno has been under 6am to 7pm curfew for the past several months following the insecurity posed by insurgency in the state. The curfew will now last from 6am to 9:30pm throughout the period to enable people move about and observe their prayers and obligations. Announcing the extension of curfew after a security meeting with service chiefs, Governor Kashim Shettima, who personally addressed newsmen in a

live broadcast, said: “The curfew is only applicable to residents of Maiduguri metropolis and Jere local government area, while those wishing to enter the town outside the metropolis will be restricted on or before 7pm.” He noted that the 6am7pm curfew still stands enforced especially for motorists and passengers that will be coming from outside Maiduguri metropolis, while residents of the city are allowed to go about their normal businesses within the extended curfew period during the Ramadan season. He however urged all and sundry to be vigilant and be law-abiding, and equally called on the Muslim ummah to use the period of the Ramadan to pray for restoration of peace in the state.

African Children Emergency Foundation and Zamaar Institute organising candlelight to mark Day of the African Child in Abuja, on Tuesday. PHOTO: NAN

Rivers: Court denies LG chairmen preservative order Dennis Naku

PORT HARCOURT

Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, yesterday refused to grant a preservative order to stop the new chairmen from being dissolved, while the matter was still in court. Justice Hassan Quadri gave the order following an application by counsel to the 22 chairmen to grant an order to protect them from being dissolved by the state government. Justice Quadri also gave the order following the ab-

sence of a counsel to the House of Assembly, who was also a party in the matter, adding that it was necessary to give room for fair hearing. Solicitor-General of the state, Rufus Godwins, who represented the state government and Attorney-General, Emmanuel Aguma, in the matter, had argued that Aguma, who had just been sworn-in as Commissioner for Justice, deserved some time to prepare the state government for the matter. Godwins, who is also Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, prayed the court for a short

adjournment, stressing that there was no need for the court to be in a hurry to hear the motion, since the matter was appearing in court for the first time. Counsel to the council chairmen, Adebayo Owonikoko, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, appealed to the court to grant an interim preservative order to protect the chairmen from being dissolved. Owonikoko explained that the council bosses needed to be protected, while the matter was still in court. Speaking to newsmen shortly after the sitting, the

Solicitor-General, Mr. Godwins, said the order of the court was justified, especially as his argument was considered for adjournment. Also, Counsel to the chairmen, Owonikoko, said all the parties were not expected to take any action on the matter that would undermine what was before the court. The matter was adjourned till June 24 for hearing on motion. The 22 newly elected chairmen had gone to court to challenge the power of the state governor, Nyesom Wike, to remove them from office.

Thursday, June 18, 2015

NASS saga: Why APC’s expected change may not come

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

ow would you describe the recent election of the leadership of the National Assembly, where Senator Bukola Saraki and Hon Yakubu Dogara emerged Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives respectively?

In fact, this is a victory for the survival of the nation’s nascent democracy. We had a situation where members were allowed to elect their principal officers without regards to any external influence. Bukola Saraki/Yakubu Dogara’s emergence signified a gradual shift to the independence of the bicameral legislature towards grassroots development following their credibility as competent leaders that can stabilise the National Assembly independently

Saraki/Dogara’s emergence tonic for our democracy –Hon Danna Rifkatu Samson Danna, is a member of the immediate past Bauchi State House of Assembly, who was suspended by the House, but was reinstated after a prolonged court battle which terminated at the Supreme Court. She bares her mind on sundry national issues, including the emergence of her kinsman, Hon Yakubu Doghara as Speaker of the House of Representatives. EZEKIEL TITUS brings excerpts: politics of do-or-die is not my option. I will have given Dogara my full support even if I contested with him in the same party.

As a constituent of Bogoro/Dass/Tafawa-Balewa federal constituency, how do you look at Dogara’s victory as Speaker?

If he offers you the opportunity, would you accept to work together with Dogara?

Let me make it clear, Dogara’s victory as the Speaker, House of Representatives is not only a victory for him alone, but for the entire people of his constituency, Bauchi State, North-East as well as the whole country, because he is now a national figure and property of Nigerian electorate. But on a more serious note, his victory is a good omen to nation building because I am sure his experience as a legislator will attract initiative development hence, the House will also experience progressive leadership towards change in the conduct of legislative business and I am sure the House under Dogara will be put in its proper position for good governance, being a highly focused, accountable and detribalised politician. What does the constituency and Bauchi State stand to benefit from the emergence of Dogara as Speaker of the House of Representatives?

The emergence of Dogara has further brought not only Bauchi State to lime light, but the entire North-East region politically and his contribution as Speaker while in office will build confidence in the capability of Bauchi State people, especially in leadership responsibilities. However, Dogara is not leaving any stone unturned to consolidate on the gains of democracy more than what he has achieved in his Bogoro/Dass/Tafawa-Balewa federal constituency, not only in Bauchi State alone, but across Nigeria. How do you see the role played by Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, elected lawmakers in the emergence of Dogara/Saraki as Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives respectively?

As loyal member of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, I commend the stand of newly elected PDP members in the National Assembly, because they determined the victories of Dogara/Saraki tickets for a genuine democratic process and it was a wise decision to effect the yearning for change in spite of the All Progressives Congress, APC’s move to impose its surrogates and I congratulated the Senate President and the Speaker, House of Representatives and wish them the best

Oh yes, if it is a call to serve my people in nation building, I will definitely accept the offer because in PDP, we carry people along for the best interest of national development not because of personal interest. What should Nigerians expects from Dogara as Speaker, House of Representatives?

Nigerians should expect a lot from Dogara, because he is meticulous, focused in execution delivery, being an experience legislator with good background of law. I am sure he is going to help Buhari and his team to turn-around the country because I know Dogara as a team player that carry elected member along irrespective of any difference. Danna

in the discharge of their duties. What is your relationship with Dogara, having contested against him in PDP?

My relationship with Dogara is very cordial. I have no grudge against him being my mentor, kinsman and at the same time my elder brother. In reality I did not contest against him, because I lost out in the primaries in the PDP while Dogara contested and won in the APC and I believe that

Bukola Saraki/Yakubu Dogara’s emergence signified a gradual shift to the independence of the bicameral legislature towards grassroots development following their credibility as competent leaders

What is the up-date on the legal battle against your purported suspension by the Bauchi State House of Assembly since 2012, following your constitutional contribution on the floor of the House regarding the relocation of Tafawa-Balewa council headquarters to Bununu?

The case is over and I have been reinstated, even though it came at a time when the House was about winding up; having won my case at the state High Court, Court of Appeal, Jos, as well as the Supreme Court, with the House, through its counsel, withdrawing its notice of motion for stay of execution before the Supreme Court. You should note that the court had declared my suspension as illegal, null and void and of no consequence and I have resumed office with my full entitlements. How would you describe the concession of defeat by former President Goodluck Jonathan to President Muhammadu Buhari, even before the final announcement of the presidential poll results?

Former President Goodluck Jonathan remains a global hero because his decision to have conceded defeat was aimed at bringing peace to Nigeria and bequeathing a united nation to his successor, irrespective of his personal interest and such people are very rare in the world. Jonathan believed that power belongs to God and politics is not a door-die affair, so leaders should learn to emulate the former president.

Politics

espite the recent pronouncement by the leaders of the All Progressives Congress, APC, that the party has reversed its stand on the controversial election of the Senate President, Bukola Saraki and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, to lead the 8th National Assembly, and accepted the result of the election, political analysts in the country are of the strong belief that the antecedents that led to the emergence of the duo will go a long way to determine the success of the 8th National Assembly and the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration. The ongoing political game in the ruling party, which some political pundits say may truncate the people’s expectations, has without doubt been giving the party’s supporters across the country concern. Many analysts believe that the recent intrigue leading to the election of the leadership of the National Assembly, if not given the required attention, may jeopardise the expectation of people in APC. As the events keep unfolding, many believed that the newly surfaced issues in the APC have their roots in what brought the actors that made it together. Looking at it all holistically, one does not need a prophet to tell that the big inhibitions that will likely face the party is how to manage its success after winning the March 28 election, bearing in mind that the party as a whole is a product of fragments with diversified visions. As it is, despite that APC has decided to sheathe its sword in the Saraki/Dogara episode, and made a volte face to accept them, what seem like big concern to the party followers now is how the Senate will be well managed by the party’s disciples who have already broken into fragments. Apart from this, another factor that call for strong political scrutiny is how the APC-led 8th Senate will have its boat sailed smoothly, with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, which took advantage of the power tussle in the governing party, to emerge empowered, by successfully cornering the Deputy senate President position. Looking at the likely games which may play themselves at the Senate, despite the calmness which seem to have come the APC way after several appeals from all and sundry, political pundits are of the opinion that the mathematics which saw Saraki through to the Senate Presidency, may be one of the bottlenecks to watch out for in the Senate soon. They are of the belief that Saraki’s romance with the opposition PDP senators, which earned him the Senate Presidency and the PDP the Deputy Senate Presidency, may later pose a big albatross to him, to the extent that he may be faced with the challenge of properly managing the Senate, and the National Assembly, as he also assumes the leadership of the National Assembly, as what has gone around in the Senate may eventually come around. One of such major issues that need to be adequately and urgently tackled by Saraki is the call by senators loyal to Senator Ahmad Lawan, the party’s consensus candidate for the Senate Presidency, that Senator Ike Ekweremadu, who emerged the Deputy senate President, resigns with immediate effect; they

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NASS saga: Why APC’s expected change may not come ADELEKE ADESANYA writes that the expected change from the governing All Progressives Congress, APC, by Nigerians may after all become elusive, following the party’s management of the election of the leadership of the National Assembly.

Buhari

Saraki

Dogara

added that Ekweremadu’s resignation is one of the conditions that would not only assuage their battered feelings and ego, but will also make them recognise Saraki as the President of the Senate. PDP’s Ekweremadu had emerged the Deputy President of the Senate, having defeated Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume of the APC by 54 to 20 votes. With the turn of events that saw Ekweremadu, the first Nigerian senator to be elected Deputy Senate President for the third consecutive time, some bigwigs among the governing APC, have also insisted that the pro-Saraki senators, otherwise called Like Mind Senators, LMS,must explain their reason for such dangerous chess move, which has cost the party the position of the Deputy Senate President. Among these senators making the demands is a frontline member of the Senate Unity Forum, SUF, Senator Kabir Marafa, who described the act of the senators to have disregarded all the arrangements put in place by the leaders of the APC to produce consensus candidates for post of Senate President and Deputy Senate President, as efforts to sabotage the party’s well meant vision for Nigerians. Calling for thorough investigations into why the Clerk of the National Assembly, Salisu Abubakar Mai Kasuwa, was in so much a hurry to conduct the election of the Senate President and the Deputy without following the normal procedure as contained in the Senate

Standing Order, Marafa said: “We demand that Senator Ekweremadu must resign his position because he needed at least 55 senators to emerge as Deputy Senate President. Ekweremadu is a lawyer and as an experienced lawmaker, he knows he is not qualified to win the election with 54 votes.” Marafa further said the pro-Saraki lawmakers should explain to the party leadership why they rushed to the chamber on June 9 and hurriedly conducted the controversial election that favoured Saraki and Ekweremadu, while the rest of the APC lawmakers were at the International Conference Centre, ICC, where they were expected to meet President Buhari. He added: “Our colleagues, the Like Minds Senators, on three occasions failed to honour the directive of the party for an arrangement to produce consensus candidates for the Senate President and Deputy Senate President. “They refused to take part in the mock election when 35 APC senators elected Senators Lawan and George Akume as the party’s consensus candidates for the two top positions in the Senate. “They also refused to honour the invitation extended to all of us to attend a meeting with Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo on June 8, and another meeting called by President Buhari on June 9.” Corroborating the argument that Mr. Ekweremadu was not properly elected, another prominent member of the SUF

from the South-West, who spoke under the condition of anonymity, said the requests of the group had been forwarded to the party leadership, adding that all efforts shall be ensured that Ekweremadu is made to jettison the position of Deputy Senate President. He said: “The Deputy Senate President, Ekweremadu, was not properly elected. For him to win the position according to law, he requires a simple majority vote of 55, but he got 54, so he did not win and we cannot recognise him. We refuse to. Our party has asked us not to talk to the press but we will not keep quiet over the issue.” In the meantime, as pro-Lawan senators are putting up with various strategies to gain their strength back in the Senate, senators who are in support of Saraki, in silent conjunction with PDP senators, have not stopped in their ‘mathematical strategies’ to counter any move by their in-house opposition, a move that people have been saying may bother President Buhari’s progressive administration. Speaking with National Mirror, one former senator who spoke on condition of anonymity maintained that the ongoing rage in the Senate may cost the citizenry to lose trust in the APC, saying: “With the way things stand, APC leaders need to act fast to ensure things are properly restored, because, failure to do so may have a huge effect on the running of the Senate and the government at large.” As the heat increases with iron melting on the political corridor, observers and Nigerians who are keenly watching with bated breath, are pondering if the needed change from the governing party will truly be delivered, considering a lot of distraction that have greeted it from the onset of its assumption of power. It is however pertinent to point out to APC leaders that Nigerians still hold the ace and would not hesitate to show it the exit door, should it fail to fulfill its promises to them.

It is pertinent to point out to APC leaders that Nigerians still hold the ace and would not hesitate to show it the exit door, should it fail to fulfill its promises to them.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

APC USA commends Transition Planning Committee Ebere Ndukwu

nited States of America, USA, All Progressives Congress, APC, has commended the APC Transition Planning Committee members for their excellent performance, saying that their resilience in persuading the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, which was initially uncooperative and violent, to do what they never intended doing was fantastic. APC USA International Secretariat in a telephone conversation commended the efforts of the committee, adding that the committee’s expertise and team work provided inroad to accountability and transparency. They said: “We quickly want to make known to many who are not aware of your outstanding performances, including Diaspora Nigerians how much we appreciated your selfless services for the development and progress of our battered country. “Conclusively, Diaspora Nigerians are proud of you; Barrister Senator Da-

Politics

Thursday, June 18, 2015

lung, your submission to President Muhammadu Buhari, means his administration has a roadmap to kick-start Nigeria. We enjoin Nigerians to brace up, make sacrifices, bear with Mr. President to race the country to the promise land. The group noted that they are fortunate to have President Buhari, urging him to include electoral reforms, considering Diaspora electoral bill/Diaspora Nigerians voting in 2019 general elections in his programmes. Reacting in a statement made available to newsmen, Barr Dalung, praised APC USA International Secretariats’ campaigns, rallies, Skype, Whatsapp, Facebook, Tweeter, Free conference calls, and publications most especially at the poll shift, adding: “That was the first of its kind, best commitment ever in the history of Nigeria. Diaspora outpoured support for democracy.” Dalung added that the President is aware of the efforts of Nigerians in the Diaspora towards the success of the party at the last general elections.

Suspended Bayelsa APC leader sends SOS to national headquarters Osahon Julius YENAGOA

n appeal has gone to the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress, APC, to quickly intervene in the crisis of confidence currently brewing in the Bayelsa State chapter of the party, as politicians in the state gear up for what will be regarded as the mother of all elections come 2016. The passionate appeal was made by an embattled leader of the party and former secretary of the defunct New Peoples Democratic Party, New PDP, Mr. Godwin Sidi, who was one of the seven party leaders suspended by the state APC for alleged anti-party activities. In an interview yester-

day, Mr. Sidi, said that his appeal to the national leaders was very necessary for them to intervene in the crisis and save the party from disintegration. Describing his suspension as unconstitutional, he claimed that the person who announced the suspension, the state APC Secretary, Marlin Daniel, was no longer the party secretary as at the time the announcement was made. He said: “I find it expedient to react to the said suspension, reason being that the person who made the announcement, Daniel, does not have the capacity to do so because he is no longer the secretary of our great party, APC. “You may recall that the so-called Daniel resigned as the state secretary to contest the just concluded

House of Assembly elections and as such he is no longer the secretary. “If by any means he is parading himself as one, he should be regarded as an impostor and the public should disregard him. There is no truth in the suspension and it is baseless and does not hold water. “I am therefore calling on the South-South Vice Chairman and national leadership of our great party to intervene in order to strengthen the state structure. Their intervention will also avert disintegration ahead of the coming gubernatorial election in the state. “ He alleged that the idea of the suspension was to subvert the attention of members of the APC and the public of the gross

misconduct and abuse of office by the state APC chairman, Tiwei Orunimighe and his cronies. Another elder of the party, Mr. Christopher Abiriowei, said the Monday suspension of some leaders of the APC, including himself, was illegal and lacking in fair hearing. He said: “Some of the APC members allegedly connived among themselves to suspend some party members without following the party rules and constitution as well as the law of fair hearing. “We the concerned members of the party still remain resolute in the quest to bring change to the party for utmost result ahead of the forth coming governorship elections in the state.”

Benue Govt House PS debunks looting rumour Henry Iyorkase MAKURDI

ontrary to insinuation making the rounds in Makurdi, the Benue State capital of large scale looting by the immediate past administration of Governor Gabriel Suswam, the Permanent Secretary of the Government House, Mr Eugene Ivase, has disclosed that nothing of such evern happened. Debunking the insinuations yesterday in a chat with National Mirror, Mr. Ivase contended that as far as he is concerned, he was not aware of any looting that took place particularly in his place of domicile. He maintained that before the departure of the last administration, both the former Governor Gabriel Suswam and new Governor Samuel Ortom met for inspection of the Government House and stock inventory taken and issues of concern were raised and resolved by both parties. He however empha-

sised that when people make unsubstantiated allegations, sometimes one starts to wonder where the information is coming from. He said that as far as he was concerned, no form of looting took place in the government House. He further stressed that former Governor Suswam was in the National Assembly for eight years and when he resumed in 2007, some of his aides, particularly cooks, were brought from there and as soon as his tenure terminated, they also left with him. Ivase said: “Therefore, without mincing words, I will categorically inform you that these people who were brought elsewhere also took back their personal effects and in that wise, one cannot quantify it to looting.” He recalled that “as the last administration wound up, there was this reported case of thievery of utensils at the liaison guest house and we swung into action with a view to verify the claims and after careful scrutiny it was discovered that the information was not correct.

Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike (right) welcomeing Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Monday Okemeni Ikpuya, and his colleagues, during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Port Harcourt, yesterday.

Eko Foundation enjoins Nigerians to support Buhari Robert Awokuse

ko Foundation has called on Nigerians to support the government of President Muhammadu Buhari through prayers and constructive suggestions which will promote meaningful and gainful socio-economic and political turnaround in the country. In a statement by its publicity secretary, Aramide Noibi, made available to National Mirror, the chairman and pioneer chairman of Eko Foundation Board of Trustees, BoT, Alhaji Ha-

keem Damola, during the group’s recent extraordinary meeting, admonished well meaning Nigerians to x-ray the nation’s political climate. Reflecting on the political situation in the country, Damola said the society and the nation rightly deserved the much expected stability, especially at this crucial political period, urging political players and concerned Nigerians to support the desired change promised by the present administration. He also seized the event to salute the maturity and courage of the leadership

of the All Progressives Congress, APC, especially President Buhari and the former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commending their efforts in stemming and arresting the National Assembly leadership crisis. He said: “We commend singularly, the rare sterling leadership qualities of Asiwaju Tinubu, President Buhari and other APC chieftains on their careful and mature handling of the fragile situation which eventually doused the tension that could have torn the party,

the society and the nation apart as envisaged by the opposition and other detractors of our great nation Nigeria.” The foundation however appealed to all political gladiators to embrace peace in order to maintain hitch-free governance, adding that all necessary measures should be put in place to ensure party unity and national development. In attendance at the meeting were, the president of the foundation, Professor Wale Smith, the Secretary, Mr. Tayo Shasanya among others.

Politics

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Lagos tribunal fails to open hearing in PDP petition Matthew Irinoye

he National Assembly Election Tribunal sitting in Ikeja, failed to open hearing yesterday in the suit filed by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate for Lagos West senatorial district, Segun Adewale challenging the declaration of Olamilekan Adeola, of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as winner of the March 28 election. At the resumed sitting of the panel, APC counsel, Bayo Badmus told the court that the respondent was yet to file his reply on the point of law as ordered by the tribunal. Badmus therefore asked the tribunal led by Justice Sylvanus Oriji for more time to file the reply. PDP counsel, Dr. Yemi Oke, did not oppose the application and Justice Oriji therefore adjourned the matter to June 22 for

hearing and reiterated his order for parties to file all applications before the next adjourned date. At the last hearing, APC, represented by Muiz Banire had told the tribunal that the petitioner did not specify the law under which he brought the petition and also failed to state the scores of the candidates, adding that he only stated the score of the respondent. He had said: “By provision of Electoral Act, the petitioner is expected to specify the scores of all the candidates in the election. He only specified his own score and that of APC candidate which is respondent,” citing the case of Ikeh vs Njoke 9 NWLR Pt 59A at page 263 and emphasized that his failure to do that eroded the validity of the process adding that where such happen, the petition becomes incompetent and urged the court to discountenance it.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Resign if age will hinder you, PDP tells Buhari Adeleke Adesanya

he People Democratic Party, PDP, has chided President Mohammadu Buhari and the ruling party, All Progressives Congress, APC, over the recent statement made by the President in Johannesburg, South Africa, about his age as a factor which may limit his performance in office. Speaking over what he described as insubstantial excuse by the President for his early failure, a chieftain of Lagos State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Mr Owolabi Olorunoje, reprimanded the president and

the APC, saying that such statement by the President is a way to compromise the huge task before him, as well as an indication that Nigerians who have reposed a lot of trust in him will be woefully disappointed. Calling on the President Buhari to immediately resign his position if feels his age will hinder his performance, Olorunoje said, “The statement by the president over his age to limiting his performance is simply an indication that his regime will yield nothing good to Nigerians. And at this time of the day, if the man is telling us that

his age will limit what he can do as the president, I think that will be the biggest excuse of the century, and I will call that an early failure of his government. It is an indication that this government will not produce anything good for Nigerians.” He added that the President, having known that his age will hinder his performance in office wouldn’t have vied for such sensitive position which determines the fate of millions of Nigerians for the next four years, adding that the President and his party should be held responsible by Nigerians for

deceiving them. He also contended that the statement by the President is shameful, considering that it was made outside the country, adding: “I can’t even imagine that the statement was made even outside the country, and I believe that it was a national shame to this nation”. It would be recalled that President Buhari expressed regret that he became the President of Nigeria at advanced age of 72, saying that this poses a great limitation to what he could do, wishing that he were the President of Nigeria much earlier when he was younger.

Taraba govt to restore Jalingo master plan, destroys illegal structures Justin Tyopuusu JALINGO

ollowing renewed efforts by the Taraba State government to restore Jalingo master plan and develop it to reflect the status of a state capital, the state’s Environmental Taskforce yesterday swooped on some traders operating businesses illegally in areas not approved by the government. The exercise which was carried out by the Ministry of Environment and Urban Development, destroyed shops around Michelin roundabout, state university gate, roadblock area and other locations within the town. National Mirror reports that the taskforce team, in company of fully armed security men pulled down makeshift business structures and containers where traders displayed their goods close to the roadside. One the affected business operators, Garba Ibrahim, lamented that the exercise caught them unawares, saying they were not given enough time to relocate, adding that many of the traders would find it difficult to cope since their means of livelihood has

been taken away. But, secretary of the committee in charge of the demolition exercise, Abel Bako Lau, said government embarked on the demolition of business structures sited illegally by the roadside to sanitise the town. He explained that government had to clear the area to enable it lay water pipes to supply some areas within the state capital with water, adding that government had earlier dispatched letters to the affected traders to move out of the area but that some of them refused to oblige.

L-R: Governors Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara), Akinwunmi Ambode (Lagos) and Umaru Tanko Al-Makura (Nassarawa), during the Nigeria Governor’s Forum meeting in Abuja, yesterday.

Group rejects President’s old age excuse, urges him to start working Ebere Ndukwu

entre for Human Rights and Social Justice, CHRSJ, has rejected the old age excuse of President Muhammadu Buhari, saying that Nigerians will not take age as an excuse for failure to

deliver on his campaign promises and to rule the country better. In a statement made available to newsmen yesterday, CHRSJ executive chairman, Comrade Adeniyi Alimi Suleiman, while reacting to a statement credited to President Buhari that at 72, “there’s

limit to what I can do,” disagreed with the President, saying that such an excuse was not tenable before the Nigeria public”, stressing that Buhari knew quite alright that he was an old man of over 70 years before he requested for the votes of Nigerians. Cautioning that Presi-

mism that the 8th National Assembly would in the future be referred to by many keen watchers as a peaceful parliament, owing to the matured and dogged manner the House would conduct its activities. The lawmaker from Jigawa State said: “Our loyalty any day remains with the party, and to our leader, President Muhammadu Buhari. “Individual members have resolved to work for the success of the principal officers, despite the controversy that trailed

the emergence of Dogara as the Speaker of the House of Representatives.” He averred that the era of mutual suspicion between the executive and the legislature was over, maintaining that the 8th National Assembly would ensure smooth flow democracy and its tenets. He added: “Nigeria has got the opportunity to get it right and we in the National Assembly would be playing a positive role under the leadership of Dogara.”

We’ll work to ensure Dogara succeeds –Aliyu Abdulgafar Oladimeji KANO

ember representing Birnin Kudu/ Buji federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Magaji Dan Aliyu, has stated that, the 360 members of the House of Representatives have affirmed their determination to work for the success of the Yakubu Dogara-led House. Aliyu pointed out that the circumstance through which the principal officers of the 8th National

Assembly emerged was a lesson in democracy, adding that “we have accepted it as a lesson and not a distraction.” He said: “The lawmakers are one family bounded by destiny and we are fully conscious of the facts of the challenges ahead of us to warrant unnecessary bickering. “It was clear to every one of us that we had a contest that produced no victor, no vanquished and that our leadership was voted by all.” He expressed the opti-

dent Buhari should not renege on his ‘change promise,’ Suleiman said he has not been impressed by the President’s style of governance, characterised by different excuses since his inauguration on May 29. He called on Nigerians to rise and put the President on his toes to ensure he fulfils his electioneering campaign promises, noting that the expectations of Nigerians from the new administration are high and that the President should be ready to deliver on his campaign promises without further delay. He said: “All these excuses from President Buhari are not tenable because age has nothing to do with performance in governance. By now, Buhari should have come out with his government agenda and begin executing it one by one; anything short of this is not tenable before Nigerians.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Views

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Remembering MKO Abiola, martyr of our democracy CRITICAL STROKES

KAYODE

KETEFE

kketefe@nationalmirroronline.net 08032147720 (SMS only)

ast Friday, June 12 marked the 22nd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, which the late entrepreneur par excellence, philanthropist, sport enthusiast and astute politician, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, won with a landslide. On that day, Nigerians of all hues, defied ethno-religious sentiments and ideological biases to vote en mass for Abiola. That day is now generally accepted as a symbolism of the sovereignty of the peoples of Nigeria and epitome of the invincibility of their collective vision for a strong and viable united nation. Born on August 24, 1937 in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, Abiola’s birth was not greeted with explosive joy and celebrative hullabaloo that normally followed childbirth in this part of the world. The reason was that he was the 23rd child of his parents, and since all the preceding 22 had died in their infancy and his parents, smarting understandably from the inexorable feelings of déjà vu, welcomed the new arrival

with repressed enthusiasm. Their scepticism for his survival was aptly captured in the name, ‘Kashimawo’ (let’s wait and see), they gave him! MKO had a rough beginning as he grappled with poverty after his father’s early death. He resorted to menial jobs like hewing firewood to sell in Abeokuta. He was, however, determined to survive and he did. It is a great tribute to human indomitable spirit that the young Abiola, armed with great resource of natural, intellectual talents and the greater asset of unflagging determination, dealt a mortal blow to poverty at a young age. He conquered human wants and deprivations and rewrote the scripts of his life, substituting the negative episodes and scenery of penury, privation, wants and powerlessness with the positives like satiety, prosperity, powers, selfactualisation and escape into elitism. After self-liberation, Abiola was not contented with fulfillment of his own dream alone, he was impassioned to share the triumph with countless number of people, who were not so lucky to help themselves out, hence his pursuit of phenomenal altruism and charity. Now, on the unwarranted controversy as to which of the historical dates of June 12 and May 29, constitutes the real symbolism of popular democracy in Nigeria, I would say there is simply no basis for comparison. June 12 simply carries the authentic and superior sanctity; it was an epitome of a contract sealed with blood in contradistinction to May 29, which is nothing but a symbolism of a contract anchored on the quicksand of empty promises if not outright

JUNE 12, 1993 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION WAS AFFIRMED TO BE FREE AND FAIR BY LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL OBSERVERS deceits (at least till now). How many of all those wonderful promises made on successive May 29 have come to fruition? Abiola was a legend on two major fronts. First, through his phenomenal philanthropy, he remained till today the most outstanding altruistic Nigerian dead or alive, and if he had done nothing else he would still have been remembered in the annals of great people on our continent. Second, he made the supreme sacrifice of accepting in exchange for life! In a singular devotion to the ideal of liberal democracy, he chose die instead of relinquishing the ‘mandate to lead’ Nigerians gave to him in the June 12, 1993 presidential election. The military authorities did all what they could to buy-off that mandate, but Abiola would not budge. He was incarcerated for many years, held incommunicado, subjected to harrowing experience, legally prosecuted, but the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland refused to succumb. He was pressurised, begged,

threatened etc, but he would simply not exchange his mandate for personal freedom. His wife, Kudirat, a firebrand activist and advocate of democratic ideals in her own right, was brutally murdered by the tyrannical dictatorial regime of the late General Sani Abacha; Abiola’s business empire suffered great reverses, as he experienced other tragedies that would have broken a mortal of a lesser psychological constitution, but the great Egba man faced all these vicissitudes with stoical resignation and inner calm. He was often heard to say: “The only entity I fear is Almighty God”. But at last, he paid the supreme sacrifice, having died on July 7, 1998 at a youthful age of 60, and in a circumstances that the later generations would definitely have a lot of questions to ask from all those involved, including all those directly and remotely connected. June 12, 1993 presidential election was affirmed to be free and fair by local and international observers. Furthermore, the Chairman of the then National Electoral Commission, Professor Humphrey Nwosu, came out several years after Abiola’s death to declare that he won the election. That is why many people felt that President Muhammadu Buhari should have declared last Friday, June 12, 2015, a public holiday in Nigeria. That gesture should have shown Nigeria still has conscience! Ketefe may be followed on twitter @Ketesco

Reinventing Nigeria’s grassroots democracy BABA CRUSOE

igeria’s democracy is structured almost entirely in line with America’s. Although there are certain minor variations at the local level of governance in America, both systems operate three tiers of government, namely, federal, state and local government. Within the American system, the pattern of administration at the local government varies from state to state. Nigeria, in accordance with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution ought to be operating a unified system of local government administration, without variations in terms of form and mode of administration. But distortions and abuses of the system abound, depending on the disposition, whims and caprices of respective state governors. This is quite unlike the American system, which follows a definite, periodic and consistent pattern of democratic governance without any form of interference whatsoever from the state governors. The American constitution, as it is also the case in Nigeria, confers on the state governors the power to ensure the existence of a democratically elected system of administration at the local government levels. The major difference, however, is that in Nigeria, the law guaranteeing the existence of a democratically elected government at the local level has been subjected to untold abuse, willful violations, persistent infractions and manipulations by those conferred with the constitutional power to ‘’provide for the establishment, structure, composition, finance and functions’’ of the local

THE DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE AT THE LOCAL LEVEL IN

NIGERIA IS CRYING

FOR REDEMPTION AND REINVENTION governments in the country. At the inception of the Fourth Republic, a democratically elected system of government in line with other tiers of government was duly enthroned. However, soon after the expiration of the three year tenure of the elected council members, most Nigerian governors took advantage of the loopholes in the 1999 Constitution to subvert the process of democratic governance at the local government levels. Contrary to the experience at the local governments, elections at the federal and state governments levelse been consistent, periodic, guided and conducted within a definite time framework in line with the legal provisions guaranteeing their existence. It is unarguable that the greatest hallmark of the democratic process and governance rests squarely on the conduct of free, fair and credible elections, as at and when due. In Nigeria, the governors have brazenly appropriated to themselves the sovereign right of the citizens to decide who their leaders should be at the local level, and in some cases nullifying such rights by arbitrary removal of democratically elected council chairmen and councilors. While the 1999 Constitution guarantees the exis-

tence of the local government, it merely conferred the power to make laws for such existence on the state governments without providing further guidelines that ought to determine the modus operandi of such laws to guarantee continuity and consistency of a democratically elected system of government at the local level. Thus, the democratic governance at the local level in Nigeria is crying for redemption and reinvention. Once progressive and proactive steps are taken in this direction, the political survival and existence of the local government as a democratically and constitutionally instituted tier of government that is not given to abuse and arbitrary violation and willfully devious subversions, will be guaranteed. To achieve such objective, the existing laws must either be strengthened or amended accordingly. In a recent publication in some of the national newspapers, a Lagos based legal practitioner, Iwilade Akintayo, insisted that ‘’the law must now be clear and decisive on the status of the local government as an autonomous tier of government that deserves to hold periodic elections in which the people of the respective localities determine who leads them, and how…’’ Beyond this, the new National Assembly should address the issue as national emergency by fashioning a proper legal framework that will tackle the ugly development and save Nigerian democracy from institutionalized abuse and mockery. Whatever reason that informed the release of federal allocations to Joint State and Local Government Ac-

counts has proven counterproductive in the circumstances due to obvious misappropriations of the funds by state governors. Every election, whether presidential, senate, House of Representatives, state Assembly or councils polls, is rooted in grassroots politicking and electioneering process. Since the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been successfully conducting elections into these respective positions, save for the council elections, it should equally be given the constitutional responsibility of conducting all elective political positions in Nigeria. Governments are instituted in order to ensure that the common good and welfare of the people are pursued and realized. Where the mechanism for governance proves otherwise becomes a veritable source of shortchanging the will of the people, it naturally loses its legitimacy and validity. Now that we are all relishing the euphoria of change, the distortions of democracy at the grassroots must be checkmated. Unless the state governments are disinvested of the constitutional powers invested on them by the 1999 Constitution to control the affairs of the local government, Nigeria’s democracy in reality and practice will remain half-baked and at the local level, and thus a mockery of the democratic process. Crusoe, a Lagos-based public affairs analyst, wrote via bazcrusoe@yahoo.com Send your views by mail or sms to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mail@ nationalmirroronline.net mirrorlagos@ yahoo.com or 08164966858 (SMS only). The Editor reserves the right to edit and reject views or photographs. Pseudonyms may be used but must be clearly marked as such.

Editorial

Thursday June 18, 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 ISE-OLUWA IGE ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF AUGUSTUS IMEKAN ACTING HEAD, GRAPHICS

Rehabilitation of oil refineries

hat the Port Harcourt Refinery may commence production at the end of this month, if reports credited to the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr. Joseph Dawha, some days ago are anything to go buy, came as a refreshing breather, especially when the immediate past civilian administration of President Goodluck Jonathan and others before it indulged in double-speak on the need for government to run refineries. On different occasions, the Presidency, Federal Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Petroleum Resources under Jonathan harped on the non-viability of refineries, on the one hand and on the other, gave approval for the building of new ones or maintaining the old ones. In 2002, the government of former President Olusegun Obasanjo issued licences to 18 investors to build new refineries. But 13 years on and still counting after, the country still relies almost wholly on imported petroleum products, with no visible capacity to refine enough of the products locally to meet even domestic needs. The Federal Government in June 2012 also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with some private American investors in respect of a $4.5 billion (N698 billion) deal to build

six modular refineries in collaboration with the NNPC. The Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, had stated that two of the new refineries would be ready by May 2013, and would be contributing 10 million litres of fuel daily. When fully operational, it was projected that the six refineries would have the capacity to refine 180,000 barrels of crude per day. But it ended there. Former NNPC Group Managing Director, Mr. Andrew Yakubu, once said all the MoUs signed with foreign firms since 2010 to establish refineries in the country could not work because “no investor will come and invest in a regulated environment”. Meanwhile, FG’s iron cast hold on and control of the pricing of petroleum products, which discourage competition and the abandonment at the National Assembly for over eight years of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) meant to open up the oil sector, are among the main factors scaring away potential private investors in oil refining. Dawha, NNPC’s new helmsman says, however that “We are carrying out phased implementation of rehabilitation of the refineries … the Port Harcourt Refinery, which has reached an advanced stage will start receiving crude by the end of this month… At the end of 18 months,

June 18, 1953 The Egyptian Revolution of 1952 ended with the overthrow of the Muhammad Ali Dynasty and the declaration of the Republic of Egypt. The revolution began a year earlier with a military coup staged by the Free Officers Movement (FOM), a group of army officers led by Muhammad Naguib and Gamal Abdel Nasser. It was initially aimed at overthrowing King Farouk, but soon moved to abolish the constitutional monarchy.

DIESEL COSTS A FORTUNE LONG AFTER ITS PUMP PRICE WAS DEREGULATED; AND

KEROSENE IS HARDLY SOLD AT SUBSIDISED RATE most of the refineries would have been rehabilitated”. The country has four refineries, two in Port Harcourt, and one each in Kaduna and Warri, all with installed capacity of 445,000 barrels per day. But they have scarcely exceeded 35 percent production capacity. Official figures say Nigeria’s average daily consumption of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) is 40 million litres; Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) 12 million litres; Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK) 11 million litres; and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) 1.2 million litres. But the country refines only 5.10 million litres of PMS; three million litres of AGO; 2.10 million litres of DPK; and 0.34 million litres of LPG daily and imports the difference of 34.90 million litres of PMS; nine million litres of AGO; 8.90 million litres of DPK; and 0.86 million litres of LPG per day; about 90 per cent of Nigeria’s daily petroleum products’ need on a rough average;

ON THIS DAY

June 18, 1984 A major clash between about 5,000 policemen and a similar number of miners took place at Orgreave, South Yorkshire, during the 1984-1985 United Kingdom miners’ strike. The strike was a major industrial action that affected the British coal industry, led by the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) which was established in 1888. In 1991, the police were forced to pay 500,000 pounds to 39 miners arrested during the crises.

and NNPC is calling the shots. Former Petroleum Minister, Mrs. Diezani Allison-Madueke, said the FG would have spent N152 billion on refineries repairs by 2013; and that the total installed capacity of all the country’s refineries would be increased to 90 percent by 2014 - another failed promise. Billions of dollars also went down the drain, especially between 1990 to date, in the name of turnaround maintenance (TAM) of the four refineries, all with spittle as the result, contrary to what obtains in other well managed crude oil producing nations that earn handsome foreign exchange through refined petroleum products and enable their citizens enjoy that gift of nature. If the Petroleum Resources Ministry and NNPC have now seen good reasons to revive the nation’s refineries, it is a huge relief, though belated. But it must be matched with sincere deregulation and opening up of the oil and gas upstream and downstream sectors to competition and transparency; as against their use before now as nests for corruption and dubious political patronage. The facts that diesel costs a fortune long after its pump price was deregulated; and kerosene is hardly sold at subsidised rate, have since exposed the rump of the oil sector. The rot is no longer a shrouded mystery.

June 18, 2012 Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud was appointed the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia. Prince Salman was born on December 31, 1935. He is reported to be the 25th son of King Abdulaziz. Therefore, Salman is a member of the Sudairi Seven; and his governmental experience dated back to the 1950s. At just 19, King Abdulaziz appointed him as his representative and the Emir or Mayor of Riyadh on March 17, 1954.

IN CONJUNCTION WITH

AFE BABALOLA UNIVERSITY, ADO-EKITI (ABUAD)

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today Thursday, June 18, 2015

It is second to none —Yakubu Gowon

How controversial law plunges UniOsun into crisis ... Anxiety mounts over Aregbesola’s silence on plan to sack VC, others

Olawoyin

Boladale Bamigbola OSOGBO

hen Osun State House of Assembly passed the bill establishing the multicampus state university (UNIOSUN), in December 2006, and former governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, signed it into law, they obviously, did not envisage the current crisis that is threatening the soul of the institution. A clause in the said law, in a manner not pre-emptive enough, of the growth and attendant increase in the revenue and expenditures of the university, pegs the approval limit of the Vice Chancellor to N1 million and that of the board to N5 million. Almost nine years after, that hydra-headed monster carefully crafted in the law that established the university is rearing its ugly head and threatening its continued

Aregbesola Panel commissioned by the state government to investigate the remote and the immediate causes of the crisis that pitched UniOsun management and its governing council against each other, Prof. Biyi Daramola, while presenting its report to Governor Rauf Aregbesola, traced the origin to the law establishing the university, saying something was fundamentally wrong with it. Although, Daramola did not make specific reference to the clause that states the approving limit of the VC and that of the board, going by the major allegation levelled against the three management staffers, that the overshot their approval limit, then it can be safely concluded that Daramola must have been referring to the clause. However, after several weeks of uncertainty and waiting for the re-

existence. The Governing Council of the university, in a letter written to Governor Aregbesola last September, had accused the Vice Chancellor and other principal staff of fraud which it claimed was perpetrated while sharing the proceeds of the institution’s pre-degree programmes. But in his reaction, the vice chancellor, Prof Okesina, though admitted approving up to N18 million when his approval limit was N1million, referred to the era of Prof. Sola Akinrinade when as VC, he had to approve up to N12 million when proceeds of the pre-degree programmes was being shared among those that generated it, based on the ratio 70 percent for the institution and 30 percent for the officers involved. Giving an insight into the crisis, the chairman of the Visitation

Kogi teachers groan over unpaid salaries 22

Okesina lease of white paper on the findings of the panel, the tetchy relationship between the governing council and three key principal officers of the university, may have finally consumed the affected officers. For many, the recommendation for sack of Prof. Basiru Okesina, the vice chancellor, Dr. Julius Faniran, the registrar and Alhaji Fatai Lasisi , the bursar, by the Prof. Gabriel Olawoyin-led governing council, was never a surprise. The unhealthy relationship between the institution’s management and the governing council which was triggered off by the sharing formula adopted for the proceeds of the present degree programmes of the institution, had not only successfully polarised the institution, it has also exposed the defect in the laws establishing the school. It would be recalled that before

Group wants more girls enrolled for sciences 24

the recent recommendation to the visitor, Governor Rauf Aregbesola that the three affected principal officers be sacked, by the governing council, the officers were in February this year, suspended by the council and an acting VC appointed to run the institution. Reliable sources in the university also disclosed that both Olawoyin, the pro-chancellor and Okesina, the VC had never enjoyed the best of relationships but had to condone each other until the situation could no longer be managed between them. But, after the intervention of the governor, who set up a panel to probe the remote and immediate causes of the upheaval, peace appeared to have returned to the institution. However, since the recommenCONTINUED ON PAGE 22

Nation’s devt depends on quality education —VC 20

Education Today

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Amosun’s wife urges technology education

Deputy ViceChancellor, (Development), Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Prof. Felix Salako; Deputy Vice-Chancellor, (Academics), Prof. Waheed Adekojo and Chairman on the occasion, Prof. Bola Okuneye during the 6th In-house Annual Workshop, organised by the University Secretarial Staff Association (USSA), in collaboration with the National Association of Professional Secretarial Staff of Nigeria (NAPSSON), FUNAAB chapter, recently.

Abolaji Adebayo

ife of Ogun State governor, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun has said that technology remains a veritable instrument to upgrade the education standard, charging the educators and other stakeholders to move with the trend of education technology to tackle the falling education standard in the country. She explained that technology defines the way students learn and it is important that educators keep abreast with the challenges if they are to inspire the children to learn. Speaking during the 7th edition of The Total School Support Seminar/Exhibition with the theme: “Inspiring the Future” in Lagos last week, Amosun said that the realm of education had been changing with the advancement of technology, adding that education should be made affordable and accessible for all citizens if the country must develop. She also noted that that the quality of education a country gives its citizens determines, to a large extent, the magnitude of political stability and technological advancement of such country. Explaining the concept of effective teaching further, Amosun said, “If we are to realise Article 13 of the United Nations’’ 1966 International Convention on Economic, Social and Cultural Right, which recognises the right of everyone to an education, as much as possible, educators must ensure effective learning for our children and in a conducive environment.” Meanwhile, the Principal Consultant, Edumark, the organiser of the seminar, Mrs. Yinka Ogunde, said that no nation could develop without a serious commitment by the government towards the education of its people. She said there must be focused determination “by our leaders to ensure we raise a generation that can bring about the Nigeria that we all dream of. The process must ensure that our children have access to quality education. It must ensure that teachers, who have the task of raising new generation of Nigerians, are equipped to inspire them.”

ASUU gives Taraba govt condition for strike suspension

he Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Taraba State University chapter, has said that on the state government should give cash-backing to the N100 million cheque issued to it. It said that sit would suspend its threemonth-old strike as soon as the state government fulfilled this condition. The Union chairman Dr. Reuben Jonathan disclosed this in Jalingo on Tuesday while reacting to the call by the government that the union should suspend the strike. It should be trecalled that the state government gave the union a bounced cheque for N100 million in March, as part payment for the lecturers’ outstanding allowances of over N400 million. Jonathan, however, urged the government to fulfill its commitments.

Nation’s devt depends on quality education —VC Saidat Alausa

ice-Chancellor, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Prof. Charles Ayo has said that the strength of any nation depends on the quality of education which could be used as a weapon to change the world. He disclosed this during the Future Ready University Conference organised by Softcom Limited, with the theme “Building Thriving Tertiary Institution Using Technology,” held in the university, last week. According to him, it has been observed that multinational appointments in Africa were Asians just because of their standard of education and technological advancement. “The introduction of mobile learning tablet was one of the right equipment and

Tunbosun Ogundare

skills needed to close the technology advancement between students in African and students in developed countries,” he said. He attributed poor quality of education to decayed infrastructures and prolonged military rule in the country. The Managing Partner, Softcom Limited and an alumnus of the university, Mr. Yomi Adedeji said that the essence of the conference was to inspire, educate and connect leaders from selected universities annually to technology for improving education service delivery towards bridging the gap in the system. Adedeji said that MTN Nigeria would be subsidising the cost of connectivity for 50 Nigerian universities while Diamond Bank would provide loan facilities and Samsung the tablets. He said education had gone beyond conventional learning because students used

technology for dissemination of information and this promotes interaction among them. Mr. Kayode Odedina, Deputy Director of e-Learning unit at the National Universities Commission (NUC) said that there was the need for Nigerian universities to embrace mobile learning device as the practice in the developed countries around the world. Speaking on the topic, “Generating exploits through efficiency management of resources,” the Chancellor of the university, Bishop David Oyedepo said individual should be able to pay full price for the future he or she wish to see, adding that every man star is in him and only those that think rightly would get results. Commending the alumni’s initiative he said Nigerian graduates would need to come out of their comfort zones to do extraordinary things.

Lions Club donates books to NOUN

of corruption on the African education system and predicts a worsening situation with increasing students’ enrolment. Unless concrete plans are put in place to checkmate this evil, the educational sector will remain in shambles no matter how much fund is thrown at it. There are two principal sources of funds for the operation of public universities in Ni-

geria. The first and most important is the subvention from the institutional proprietors namely, the federal or state governments, and the many funding parastatals. The second source is what is popularly referred to as the internally generated revenues (IGR). Internally generated revenues are derived mainly from fees charged by the various insti-

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), National Open University of Nigeria, Prof. Patrick Eya (left) in handshake with the Regional Chairman of Lions Club (District 404), Asaba, Delta State, Sir. Monday Onyeme during the presentation of text books by the club to the university in Asaba.

tutional administrators on a yearly basis to make up for the shortfalls in funds from the proprietors. Though the fees that largely make up the IGRS in some institutions have risen to the level of those charged by some privately owned universities, there has been no improvements in infrastructure and facilities in these institution. It is our belief that the basic underlying problem is corruption. Apart from fees paid by the regular students, the need to broaden the internally generated revenue base is the reason for the flourishing non NUC approved programmes in Nigerian universities. These consist of the variety of part time programmes including the distant learning centres and the week-end programmes, the pre-degree programmes and diploma programmes. However, these programmes often add little or no value to their patrons in terms of knowledge and skills acquired because of corruption in their operation. Many lecturers just take advantage of the corruption in the system and embark on their own internally generated rev

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Experts sensitise students on earth depletion Tunbosun Ogundare

T Badejo

Badejo tasks govt on youth transformation Saidat Alausa

gain, relief has come the way of 32 brilliant but indigent students as a not-for profit making organisation, Wilson Badejo Foundation awarded them scholarships in Lagos, last week. With the new set, a total of 207 people have benefited from the scheme in the last eight years. Speaking during the presentation of award at the foundation’s 8th Annual lecture, Founder and Chairman of the foundation, Dr. Wilson Badejo said the aim is to help the students have access to functional education which they cannot afford due to financial constraint. He disclosed that the lecture series centres on his birthday anniversary annually which he has also chosen to celebrate by identifying with the downtrodden masses of the society who by reasons other than their faults have been schemed out of the mainstream of the economic system. “Though I have friends among the high and mighty in our society whom I can invite to celebrate with me in a grandiose fashion, but I have chosen the path of my mentor, Jesus Christ who during His earthly ministry was always in the company of the society’s lowly men and women”, he said. The cleric said youths represent the most vibrant and productive of all segments of the society and neglecting them means to draw back the hands of the clock of the nation’s socio- economic and political development. He therefore urged the government to put in place programmes designed to transform the youths into responsible citizens. In his lecture, titled: “Nigeria, entrenched poverty and the growing underprivileged class: What blueprint for positive affirmative change,” Prof. Edward Oyewo of the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos said Nigeria is a nation that is in abundance but bedeviled by the scourge of poverty. He said poverty of the spirit was what is seen in wanton corruption in the country so much that politicians amass wealth that cannot finish even to their fourth generation.

Fiditi Grammar School alumni meet he former students of Fiditi Gram-

mar School, Fiditi, Oyo State, Lagos branch will this Sunday hold their monthly general meeting at 30, Adedoyin Street, Ogba, Ikeja. The major agenda of the forum is the election of new leaders to steer the affairs of the alumni association. Welfare of members and the development of the school will also be discussed.

he students of Federal Science and Technical College, Yaba, Lagos hosted their counterparts from CMS Grammar School, Bariga; Federal Government College, Ijanikin, Angus Memorial High School and others last Thursday to a seminar where they were sensitised on how best to manage natural resources and human activities to make the environment friendly to all. The forum, organised by FSTC’s Conservation Club as a

maiden edition was to commemorate this year’s World Environment Day with the theme: “Seven billion dreams: One planet, consume with care.” In her keynote address, Head of Conservation and Ecology, Lagos State Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Titilayo Raji told the students to cultivate habit of reducing waste and recycling of used items, saying doing so would in no small measure reduce burning and other activities that can deplete the earth. She also told them to stand up against indiscriminating dispose of refuse inside drain-

ages and flood in their neighborhoods, saying it was only friendly environment that can sustain economic development anywhere in the world. She therefore encouraged participants who are yet to have climate or conservation clubs in their schools to form one and make it functional. Earlier in his speech, the chairman on the occasion and Senior Environmental Officer, Nigerian Ports Authority, Mr. Omiyi Kelvin Ehijele told participants to take the message of the forum to their peers and family members, noting that awareness

and advocacy are paramount for people to understand what environmental issues are all about. In his remark, the principal and director of the host school, Rev. Chris Ugorji said the essence of the seminar was to catch the students young so that they would not only preach the message to others but also live by it to adulthood. Represented by the viceprincipal (Academic, Science 1), Mr. Gbolahan Oladoyinbo, the principal promised that the school would sustain the club and make it activities publicoriented. L-R: Principal, Federal Science and Technical College (FSTC), Yaba, Lagos, Rev. Chris Ugorji; Managing Director, Vodacom Business Africa, Mr. Guy Clarke; Co-ordinating Inspector, Federal Inspectorate Service, Lagos, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Ada Ibrahim-Alfa and Vice Principal, FSTC, Mrs. Jane Nwanah during the hand-over and inauguration of 220KVA generator and ICT equipment donated by Vodacom to the college last Thursday

ABUAD N1bn In’t School begins, revives HSC

international languages from early age. They will learn to work on the comhe founder of Afe Ba- puter from age one and as balola University, Ado well have access to worldEkiti (ABUAD), Aare class sporting facilities”. Afe Babalola, has said that He said the purpose of the International School of reviving the post-secondary the university would take off school certificate where in September with a view to Higher School Certificates imbibe academic and moral would be awarded was to excellence on the future lead- ensure students are exposed ers from infancy. to necessary subjects that He said that the ABUAD would give them the necesInternational School, which sary exposure and maturity gulped over one billion naira, before they gained admiscomprised creche; nursery sion to university to study school, primary school; ju- certain courses. nior and senior secondary He said: “Products of schools; and post-secondary school certificate or senior school. school certificate are not maAare Babalola, a legal ture. That is why we need to luminary said the interna- revisit the HSC scheme to entional school was designed to sure only mature student go enable children receive func- to study certain courses like tional and qualitative round Law. In England, GCE Adeducation from early age and vanced to prepare them for univerLevel sity and beyond. is reAccording to him, “We quired intend to make it a model t o and of international stanstudy dard like ABUAD where Law, we the children here will be should able to compete favourably toe that with their peers overseas. line.” “Children will learn

Abiodun Nejo ADO EKITI

Jubilation as firm donates borehole, library to Lagos school Tunbosun Ogundare

upils and teachers of Local Government Primary School, Ikeja, Lagos went into jubilation last Thursday as Nielsen Nigeria Limited inaugurated and handed over a functional borehole and library to the school authorities. Nielsen Nigeria, which also donated some textbooks to the library of the 63-year-old school, is a performance management and consumer insights firm operating in over 100 countries around the world. Handing over the projects to the school, Managing Director of the company, Mr. Lampe Omoyele said the company took the initiative as part of its corporate social responsibilities on education to contribute to the development of the sector. He explained that that the company had made it a practice to support educational institutions as well as students meaningfully knowing full-well the importance of education to the development of the economy. He noted that the donation of the projects was in commemoration of the company’s 2015 Global Impact Day celebration. With the two projects, pupils and teachers of the school can now

boast of potable water and functional library capable of serving the school community effectively. Omoyele however promised to extend the gesture to many other schools in the country, saying government cannot all alone provide for education and other needs of the citizenry. Appreciating the company for the donation, the Assistant Head Teacher of the school, Mrs. Elizabeth Akapo said accessing potable water now in the school premises would stop both the students and teachers from going elsewhere to look for this all essential commodity for use including drinking when necessary. She also said with the library wearing a new look and stored with relevant books, pupils as well as teachers would be encouraged to make use of the facility. “That is why we are most grateful to Nielsen Nigeria and members of staff for the love, care and support,” she stressed. The school students’ population is 280 against 30 teachers. In her remark, the Education Secretary of Ikeja Local Government, Mrs. Bolanle Shittu gave kudos to the donor, saying the donated facilities would be greatly impactful on the school community.

Education Today

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Kogi teachers groan over unpaid salaries Wale Ibrahim LOKOJA

T David-West

David-West bags NAE award

frontline civil engineer, Mayne David-West, has been honored with the Fellowship Award of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering. At the academy’s 2015 annual lecture, David-West, a Principal of Pearl Consultants, was recognised for his professional and meritorious contributions to the civil engineering practice in Nigeria spanning 37 years. A member of COREN, among other six engineering bodies locally and abroad, David-West was honored for “NICE Award of Professional Excellence in Recognition of exceptional accomplishments as a Civil Engineer”. The erudite engineering consultant, who believes engineering is a medium to express himself and his creativity, has over 200 exciting projects to his credit, including the 27km Port Harcourt Ring Road Design with first class cable-stayed bridge, the East-West coastal road design (Calabar-Lagos) straddling 706 km and such other cable-stayed remarkable works in Rivers State. David-West, a native of Buguma in Rivers State and better known as a renaissance engineer is married to Juliet and blessed with children.

Use local illustrations in class, teachers urged

eachers in Lagos State have been advised to use local illustrations while teaching in order to expose students to their culture and restore moral and value system in the country. Director-General, Education Quality Assurance, Lagos State Ministry of Education, Mrs. Ronke Soyombo, gave the advice recently at a sensitisation workshop for Proprietors of Private Schools in Lagos. She said that the use of indigenous references would ensure effective learning by the pupils and students of primary and secondary schools. “When children know their culture, know where they are coming from and where they are heading, it contributes to their character-moulding, which is paramount in education,” she said. Soyombo stressed that teachers should use the nation’s famous people as examples, to instill Nigeria culture and history in the children, in order for them to appreciate Nigerian heroes. She also said that it is good to send children to British schools, “but we should not lose our culture; there should be a synergy between our culture and the British culture.” She reiterated that the nation is losing its culture, “and the earlier we get back on track, the better.” The DG also said that History should be re-introduced in schools, with Nigerian famous history included in the syllabus.

he Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Kogi State chapter has blamed the state government for the salary and other allowances related problems bedeviling teachers of basic education in the state. The state Chairman of the union, Mr. Suleiman Abdullahi disclosed this while speaking with journalists shortly after a meeting between the

union and the board members of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB). He explained that if the state government had followed the law which mandated it to also contribute to the funding of basic education, the problem would not have arisen, arguing that what happened is that the state government only put the burden on the local government. According to him, the law that set up SUBEB in Kogi was

Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Prof. Adebiyi Daramola (left) with guest lecturer and Vice-Chancellor, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo- State, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun shortly after delivering FUTA’s 69TH inaugural lecture on “Nigeria’s agricultural policy, productivity and poverty: The critical nexus,” in Akure, recently.

signed by former governor Ibrahim Idris in 2005, it stipulated that the financing of SUBEB should be carried out by the state and local governments but this is not the case. So if the state government has been responding in this regard, many of the problems would have been solved. Abdullahi noted that a committee had been set up headed by the Secretary to State Government Professor Olugbemiro Jegede to look into the matter for purpose of resolving it permanently. He pointed out that apart from November and December salaries and

allowances is the cumulative N25 billion balance on the minimum wage since 2011. Speaking on the unpaid leave grant for teachers in basic schools, the chairman said the SBEB blamed the education secretary of various local governments for it, saying they are yet to forward names to board for onward submission to the government to effect payment. He therefore however pleaded with members of the union to remain calm and wait for further directive as government had set up a committee to look into the issue.

L-R: Actress, Funke Akindele; Administrator, Grace Children Schools,Lagos, Mrs. Tokunbo Edun and Mr. Ernest Ezenwa at the school 2015 funfair, recently.

How controversial law plunges UniOsun into crisis CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 dation of the governing council was reported, the institution has been immersed in fresh rounds of trouble with different groups singing discordant tunes in their reactions to the development. For instance, the UniOsun chapter of the Non Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, NASU described the recommendation for sack of the officers as a step in the right direction. This was however contrary to the position of their academic counterparts (ASUU), who, in a statement signed by Dr. Seye Abiona, its chairman, condemned the governing council for recommending to the Visitor to the university that the vice chancellor and others be sacked. ASUU said the recommendation was in bad fate and pre-emptive since the white paper on the report submitted by the Prof. Adebiyi Daramola-led panel instituted by the visitor to investigate causes of the crisis has not been released. Similarly, the only ASUU delegate at the council meeting where the decision to recommend the affected officers for sack, Prof. Gbolagade in a letter detailing what transpired at the meeting said: “ I wish to state categorically and with all sense of assertion that I was the only delegate at the council meeting who registered my non-acceptance of the Council’s decision.

“I note, as part of reasons to the council members, that I am of the opinion that the decision is not appropriate at the moment, given the fact that a Visitation Panel on the crises in the University, to which the Council is also a party, was already set up by the Visitor and the said panel had submitted its report to the Visitor which shall be implemented by the Visitor. “I reminded the Governing Council that the Panel was set up by the Visitor to look into all the issues causing crises in the University one of which is the abrupt suspension of the principal officers among other issues. Consequently, taking this further step of recommending the Vice-Chancellor for removal and termination of the appointments of the Registrar and Bursar is a premature action which would frustrate the good efforts of the Visitation Panel as graciously conducted by capable hands in the academia with good years of experience in crises management and who had submitted a detailed report to the Visitor. “The said panel had submitted its report, which I am aware the Visitor is thoroughly considering before the release of the white paper on the crises involving the management and the Governing Council among other issues. It is very key that the Governing Council careful evaluate the situation without any haste before reaching an objective position on the issues.” However, NASU in a statement signed by

its chairman, Mr. Isaiah Fayemi; secretary Suleman Olugbeja and treasurer Mrs. Fisayo Ojeleke, said the recommendation for sack of the affected officers was rather lenient and warned the governor against taken a contrary decision to that of the Governing Council on the matter in order not to subvert justice. Also, Association of Senior Professors of the institution, aligned with the action of the governing council saying in a statement that “we want to dissociate ourselves from the position of ASUU and others because it did not emanate from the congress of our union. In the absence of a collective ASUU congress whatever release the ASUU Chairman and his cronies have made should be disregarded by the public. None of the principal officers affected could be reached for comment on the latest development but a senior lecturer in the institution, who does not want to be named, told National Mirror that all parties involved are working on securing the support of Governor Aregbesola, adding that more startling revelations should be expected because “ those involved are not ready to sheath their sword. “The silence of the Visitor on the suspension of the three officers even when ASUU demanded that the action should be reversed, suggests the governing council is winning the battle.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Corruption and funding in Nigerian universities

orruption no doubt is a significant factor in the unprecedented decay in the Nigerian tertiary educational system. A recent article by Professor Goolam Mohamedbhai, a former vice-chancellor of the University of Mauritius in the global edition of the university world news (June 5 2015), highlighted the negative impact of corruption on the African education system and predicts a worsening situation with increasing students’ enrolment. Unless concrete plans are put in place to checkmate this evil, the educational sector will remain in shambles no matter how much fund is thrown at it. There are two principal sources of funds for the operation of public universities in Nigeria. The first and most important is the subvention from the institutional proprietors namely, the federal or state governments, and the many funding parastatals. The second source is what is popularly referred to as the internally generated revenues (IGR). Internally generated revenues are derived mainly from fees charged by the various institutional administrators on a yearly basis to make up for the shortfalls in funds from the proprietors. Though the fees that largely make up the IGRS in some institutions have risen to the level of those charged by some privately owned universities, there has been no improvements in infrastructure and facilities in these institution. It is our belief that the basic underlying problem is corruption. Apart from fees paid by the regular students, the need to broaden the internally generated revenue base is the reason for the flourishing non NUC approved programmes in Nigerian universities. These consist of the variety of part time programmes including the distant learning centres and the week-end programmes, the pre-degree programmes and diploma programmes. However, these programmes often add little or no value to their patrons in terms of knowledge and skills acquired because of corruption in their operation. Many lecturers just take advantage of the corruption in the system and embark on their own internally generated rev-

Billions of Naira collected as fees are expended on routine recurrent administrative headings enue drive through sales of books and grades! The first indication of a lack of accountability in the system is the finding that many institutional heads do not know the exact number of students that are enrolled in their institution. This may initially sound like sheer incompetence, but I dare say, incompetence arising from corruption in the employment process which allows round pegs to occupy square holes. Though nearly all year one students proceed to the second and subsequent levels of their university study, many are not registered officially and the number of students in the system thereafter remains unknown. This is an ideal scenario for the alleged massive corruption in the university system. The second and equally absurd, is the inability of the authorities to collect fees from the students after the first year of study. Collection of fees from returning students appears to present an insurmountable challenge to administrators of some Nigerian universities. Many students actually graduate without paying more than the first year fees and some-

CIAPS holds seminar on fuel subsidy

L-R: Indomie Fan Club Coordinator, Mrs. Faith Joshua; Head, Indomie Fan Club, Sony Dorai and Chief Operating Officer, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Adhi Narto during the “Indomie Teamup with Mum” art exhibition held at the company’s headquarters in Lagos, recently.

Children showcase talents at Indomie exhibition Saidat Alausa

n line with its commitment of showcasing the creative abilities of children, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, makers of Indomie instant noodles, recently held a creative exhibition at the company’s headquarters in Lagos. The exhibition was aimed at celebrating the creative works of children who sent entries for its ‘Team up With Mum’ competition geared towards strengthening the bond between mother and

how manage to collect their certificates by further exploiting the corruption in the system. The university authorities appear to make up for the resulting shortfall by increasing the fees payable in the first year, which is the only one they are sure of! A third and occasionally more important aspect of corruption in university finances is the issue of ‘unbudgeted expenditure’. Spending of available funds on items that benefits a few individuals and lack of accountability in the disbursements probably contribute more to the scarcity of funds for essential projects than loss to poor book keeping. The purchase and fuelling of official cars and funding of overseas trips are often prioritized ahead of essential laboratory equipment and reagents. Often, the university administrators seem to consider the administrative unit as the centre of the ‘university world’ and the academic units as peripheral. Billions of Naira collected as fees are expended on routine recurrent administrative headings, and hardly trickles down to the centres of academic activities. All these are possible because the proprietors of public universities in Nigeria do not know the total amount of revenue accruing to their institutions nor do they monitor how such revenues are spent. I recommend that the university administrations should be held accountable for all revenue accruing to their institutions, including the internally generated components. Universities must be made to prepare and defend budgets and obtain approvals based on all expected revenue before the appropriate authorities on a yearly basis. Furthermore, not more than a quarter of all accruing revenue should be spent on university administration. The remaining three quarters should be devoted to improving the academic programmes which are directly beneficial to the students. Such should include provision of adequate lecture and laboratory spaces, routine laboratory reagents and research materials and audio visual materials. This would lead to rapid improvement in teaching and learning environment and an improvement on the quality of graduates.

child. The Indomie ‘Team up With Mum’ competition which lasted for a month was exclusive to members of Indomie fan Club. The Indomie Fan Club is an initiative of the company. The aim of the club was to create an environment of learning, fun, excitement and bonding for children between the ages of 5 to 12. In partnership with their mums, the children were required to come up with exciting designs using Indomie cartons and packs. The com-

petition recorded over 37, 000 entries. Speaking during the exhibition, Indomie Fan Club Coordinator, Mrs. Faith Joshua, stated that the competition served as a platform to deepen the existing bond between mother and child while also exposing the creativity of the child. She said, “The exhibition is an avenue to showcase the creative abilities of the children and to also bring out the best in them. By the time we are done with the final selection process, the top three en-

tries will be rewarded with cash prizes of 100, 000, 75, 000 and 50, 000 respectively while a lot of consolation prizes will be given out.” It would be recalled that during the recent children’s day celebrations where Indomie feted over 70, 000 children across Nigeria, Head, Public Relations and Event, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Mr. Tope Ashiwaju, stated that Indomie is a children centric brand and will continue to support causes and activities that will help their development both mentally and physically and ensure they are happy.

takeholders and various professionals will tomorrow converge on Lagos to discuss the thorny issue of fuel subsidy in Nigeria. The round table, tagged: “Fuel subsidy: A closer look” will hold inside auditorium of the Centre for International Advanced and Professional Studies (CIAPS), Ikeja, the organiser of the conference. The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Prof. Mobolaji Aluko; Mr. Henry Boyo, a public analyst; Mr. Tosin Adeyanju and the Executive Director of Conscience Nigeria are billed as speakers and panelist for the event. The Director of the centre, Prof. Anthony Kila in a press release, said discussants would analsye past and future of fuel subsidy, its effect on the country and its relation to the current fuel scarcity and proffer a practicable solution to the crisis. He noted that many legislators, representatives from civil organisations and

members of the public are expected to be part of the programme. Kila, a Professor of Strategy and Development at Oxford University, United Kingdom explained that the roundtable would be part of the professional training for some students of Media and Journalism of the centre. The students according to him are Fatima Melissa Turay, who is their leader; Charity Azubike; Shimatever Sunday and Omolara Abioye. He said CIAPS is the first paperless institution in Africa and runs career-oriented programmes aimed at getting graduates and professional into jobs in their chosen professions.

Kila

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Edited by: Saidat Alausa saidat_alausa@yahoo.com 08027633686

Group wants more girls enrolled for sciences Eddy Uwoghiren

300L, MED AND SUR. UNIBEN

orried by the decline in enrolment of girls in science related disciplines, Organisation of Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), University of Benin (UNIBEN) chapter organised a one day seminar to address the issue. The seminar which was tagged: “Science is fun and innovative” was held last week. One of the participants, Dr. Edith Odia of Business Administration Department said the seminar was borne out the association’s desire to encourage female participation in sciences. In a lecture, titled: “Career Prospect in Science,” Prof. Eiche of Pharmaceutical Technology Department made it known that there were lots of career opportunities available to girls in science related fields. She observed that the age long notion that science was difficult, inadequate learning materials, poor motivation, quality of teachers, and dearth of libraries in schools were responsible for the decline. She called on the government to properly fund the teaching of science in schools stressing that no nation developed without adequate investment in Science.

MSSN UNILAG targets 1,000 muslims for free meal during Ramadan Miftaudeen Raji UNILAG

he Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), University of Lagos (UNILAG), branch has said that no fewer than 1000 Muslims will benefit from its free meal on campus during Ramadan. The President of the branch, AbdulRasheed Adeoye, told Campus News in an interview that the programme was aimed at creating more awareness for the new month and making the fasting easy for Muslims. He said having considered many factors, one of which is the stress of academic activities for students, the feeding scheme will provide for the pre-dawn meal and during breaking of fast at sunset in order to relieve them of the rigorous stress of cooking. “Before now we do it for only 15 days during but this year we got more sponsors that is why we will do the feeding from the first to the last day,” he explained.

Sponsor of the of Sir B.E.I Nwofor Annual International Inter-University Moot Court Competition, Sir Beluolisa Nwofor (left) handing over the trophy to University of Benin team, winner of the competition held at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, recently.

Ali Toyin Abdul 300L LAW UNILORIN

aculty of Engineering, University of Ilorin, Kwara State was beehive of activities recently when students exhibited their innovations at the annual Projects exhibition of the faculty. This year edition tagged EPEX 2015, featured ten students from various departments in the faculty. Two students, Obinna Isiwekpeni and Hafeez Olajide, kept the judges and audience agape when they designed a Cloud-based Home Automation System. With that innovation, a person can powered his appliances at home

UNILORIN engineering students showcase innovations at exhibition while elsewhere. While commending the two students for the ground-breaking design, one of the judges, Ibrahim Ogundeko of Samsung West Africa, promised to market the project beyond the precinct of the school. The design clinched the first prize and the most innovative award. A lady, Abimbola Lois, a 500 Level civil engineering student, stole the show when she was declared the only female among the participants. Her project titled, Design

Ezekiel Efeobhokhan 400L, PHARMACY, UNIBEN

he graduating class of University of Benin, Edo State holds a luncheon last week to commemorate the end of their programme in the institution. Present at the event were academic staffs, non- academic staffs of the faculty and labora-

Pharmacy graduates at the luncheon.

and Modeling of a Typical Household Rainwater Harvesting System, received applauds and commendation of the panel of judges. She went home with the third prize. In his welcome remark, the president of the faculty, Abdulrahman Abdulhakeem, a 500 Level Engineering student, revisited the ideas behind the programme and the purpose it would serve on the students. He said the programme is expected to stimulate the innovative

and technical skills among students and to motivate them. The panel of judges was drawn from four faculties in the university as well as the engineering industry. At the end of the competition, the first prize winner, second prize winner and third prize winner went home with a cash prize of N70, 000, N50, 000 and N30, 000 respectively. While the winners of the two special awards, best ecofriendly and most innovative projects, were each presented a plaque of recognition.

UNIBEN pharmacy graduates celebrate

tory attendants. Addressing the newly graduated students the Dean of the faculty, Prof. Akerele encouraged them that the whole world is waiting for them to show what stuff they are made of. His words, “You have all been certified excellent in character and in learning, you are the new

professionals in whom we are well pleased. We have no fear concerning the services you are about to offer the world. This is because we know the quality of lecturers you have all passed through. He noted that the introduction of PHARM D programme by the university had placed them ahead of their peers. He therefore urged them to go on to create a niche wherever they find themselves. The class representative of the class, Andrew Saba thanked all those present after which there was presentation of awards and cutting of cake. “Graduating with the PHARM D certificate is a rare privilege. I thank the good Lord for making the course a possibility in UNIBEN. The certificate has faced many hurdles yet God has made it sacrosanct. We hope to serve humanity in the best way we can and proffer solution to man’s major health problems,” he said. Remembering what it was like during the hectic six years of study, one of the graduate, Rosemary Chibogwu stated that one of her most troubled moment was whenever the faculty examination officer was about to paste results. According to her, that was always a source of palpitation for her.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Edited by: Saidat Alausa saidat_alausa@yahoo.com 08027633686

DG NIMASA, 38 others bag PhD from UNIPORT Francis Ezem

he University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has conferred the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, Dr. Ziakede Patrick Akpobolokemi and 38 others with its Doctorate Degrees. The NIMASA boss was conferred with a doctorate degree in Strategic Marketing Initiatives and Business Performance of the Nigerian Maritime industry from the Management Sciences Faculty of the university. The event was part of the activities that marked the 30th convocation ceremony of the university, held at the weekend. Dr Akpobolokemi, while speaking shortly after the conferment of the doctorate degree, thanked the University for providing a conducive environment for him to continue his academic quest in order to strengthen his capacity to provide services to the nation’s maritime industry. According to the DG, his area of specialisation provided him with valuable insights as his research documented the best practices in Strategic Marketing Performance Management

(MPM). This, it was gathered was based on the survey results of various firms and institutions in the maritime sector both in Nigeria and anywhere in the globe. A major feature of the convocation ceremony was the installation of the Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammad Iliyasu Bashar, a retired Major General, as the Chancellor of the university. President Muhammadu Buhari who was the special guest at the event, said the Federal Government was committed to improving the lots of the educational sector in the country through proper funding. The president, who was represented by the Executive Secretary of Nigerian Universities Commission NUC, Prof. Julius Okojie, promised that education would receive the needed budgetary allocation under the present administration. While describing the education sector as key to national development, President Buhari pledged that the goal of his administration is to provide modern facilities, rehabilitate and upgrade existing ones in order to ensure that learning, teaching and research facilities are constantly upgraded and updated to meet international standards.

Saidat Alausa

tudents of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife recently made Nigeria proud at the 4th Africa Regional Round of the Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court Competition held in Pretoria, South Africa. The competition is based on a hypothetical space law dispute before the International Court of Justice; a “Case Concerning Planetary Defense.” The competition yearly presents a unique opportunity for African students to engage in matters of public international law of contemporary relevance to outer space, to develop their legal advocacy skills with other top universities from the region, and to interact in a unique forum for intellectual and cultural exchange. The Moot Problem presents

Experts chart ways for human capital devt

Emeka Chukwuemeka, FCE (T) UMUNZE

s part of efforts in development of human capital through education prospects and challenges in developing countries, professionals, as well as students and educators recently converged on Federal College of Education (Technical) Umunze, Anambra state to brainstorm and suggest ways of developing and maintaining human resources capital in different fields. The conference was organised by the International Association for Promoting Professional Excellence in Research and Education (INTAPPERE). In his lead paper, entitled: “Education and Human Capital Development: Changing Global Dynamics and SkillSet,” Prof. Ben Osisioma of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra

State, observed that human development is concerned with the richness of human life, rather than the richness of the economy. He noted that education is the pivot of national transformation and development, adding that dysfunctional educational system would perpetuate and deepen poverty and underdevelopment in the country. And consequently according to him, resource rich economies like Nigeria, would report abysmal performance in human development indices. Osisioma therefore said that there is need to raise a generation of men and women that think critically, solve complex multi-disciplinary and open-ended problems, create and innovate through communicate and collaboration. Presenting the second paper titled, “Development of Human Capital Through Education: Prospects And

Challenges In Developing Countries” Rev. Uchechukwu Felix of St. John’s University, New York, argued that the developing countries (Africa in general, and Nigeria in particular), are in need of development, and that the most promising way of achieving this desired goal (development) is by developing the human capital through education. Earlier in his address, the Provost of the college, Prof. Josephat Ogbuagu represented by Prof. Ezimma Nnabuife of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka said for any nation to be adjudged as developed, the human beings there must be above board. He added that an important approach to nation development is its human, education on the other hand is the intellectual laboratory of any nation and the engine that propels the economy through human resources”.

Vice-Chancellor, University of Portharcourt, Prof. Joseph Ajienka (left) with DG, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA during the conferment of doctorate degree on the DG at the institution’s convocation, last Saturday.

OAU students win international competition

issues relating to the response to a threat to the Earth posed by the risk of collision with a Near Earth Objects (NEOs). It also addresses the utilization of natural resources of the celestial object, and liability for damages occasioned by the NEO. Participating Law Faculties were from the University of Pretoria, South Africa; Mount Kenya University, Kenya; Makerere University, Uganda; University of Juba, South Sudan; Niger Delta University, Nigeria; and the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. University of Pretoria and the Obafemi Awolowo University were finalists and Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria emerged overall winners. The team will now represent Africa during the World Finals of

the competition during the International Astronautical Congress (IAC), in Jerusalem, Israel between 12th and 16th October, 2015. The team will compete with

the Regional Winners from Asia Pacific, Europe, and North America. The Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife had previously won

the maiden Introductory Africa Regional Round in 2011 as well as the 1st and 3rd Africa Regional Rounds in 2012 and 2014, respectively.

Cross section of students of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, displaying their certificates L-R: Mr. Odey John; Ms. Onashile Peace; Dr. Orifowomo; Odunola Akinwale and Mr. Amuda Toheeb at the programme.

Thursday, June 18, 2015

ESPITE the creation of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), headed by Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, the governorship stooge of Orji who has taken over from his benefactor, Abia State is today, unequivocally, the dirtiest state in the country. It is so bad that the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) coaches cannot move due to refuse blockages of tracks. The issue became so bad that Engr. Sijuwade of the NRC had to cry out for intervention from higher authorities. Yet, the compensation for this inefficiency is the reward of governorship ticket to Okezie by Orji in perpetuation of his fiefdom and perpetration of mediocrity. From the foregoing and other issues coming up it is easy to understand why Orji is always pelted with sachet water anytime he visits Aba. This explains why during the last prsidential campaign of former President Goodluck Jonathan in the South East, Orji did not want the President to go to Aba but for the insistence of the like of Mr. Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State who ensured that the ex-First Citizen stepped into Aba. If there were still time for Orji to constrainedly visit Aba, he would be stoned—no more kid-glove treatment with sachets of packaged water. One of the agencies that deceived Orji is the Broadcasting Corporation of Abia (BCA). This is probably one of the worst, if not the worst, public information outfit in the country. All that the BCA does from morning to night is to sing the praises of the former governor and his wife. If any of them is constipated from gastronomical indulgence, the station announces it like a paid advertisement for as many times as the unprofessionals in the organsiation get to the point of imbecilic satiation with such idiocies. There can be no other newsy development other than Orji and his spouse, 24/7. I have never seen this kind of journalistic tragedy in my life. I am sure they will move over to the new governor and the life of stupidity goes on to the detriment of their tax-paying audiences. The same asininity plays out in the state-owned newspaper, The Ambassador. In the same breath, most of his commissioners, SAs and the entire media team were simply incompetent, ignorant

Oppositional press (2)

and selfish officials who dug their employer’s grave ahead of handover! My take in the T. A. Orji disastrous years (2007-2015) is that there was a visible lack of accountability, transparency and equity in the awful administration of the state. Orji carried on as if it was a family business and rode roughshod above anyone resident in the state. And those outside the state like me were either abducted (I shall return to this presently) or cowed to silence, if not wasted! In 2012, there was a budget of N12.06 billion and the next year N134.14 billion. Still, as you read this there is nothing to behold in the entire state—forget the photoshop pictures and documentaries splashed across multimedia platforms in ochestration of propagandistic governance. I have deliberately left out the 2014 budget as I learned that most of it was deployed in the emergence and potential enthronement of Orji’s puppet. Okezie, at all costs by fire, by power, by pound sterling, by dollar, by naira, by any means, as the next governor of Abia State. I just hope the tribunal aborts this malarial dream! Otherwise, my state is doomed forever! The establishment of the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Commission by an act of parliament to ameliorate the privations of communities in the state that produce oil has turned out to be another drainpipe as such communities remain neglected while the funds for their rehabilitation are siphoned in cahoot with the regime of misappropriation, graft and thievishness. Unfortunately, the House of Assembly that should have checked some of these excesses has become a collusive partner in the wilful and bestial progress of the Executive. I have always insisted that what we have in Nigeria are rubber-stamp legislatures at all levels who cannot interrogate another arm of government because the so-called legislators have been mortally compromised.

Babcock alumni to build N250m secretariat

Saidat A lausa

I can never forget the observation of Prince Arthur Eze not too long ago that Abia State was in a state of rot and needed a messianic intervention from the Presidency or any other liberator who can halt the drift. The Jonathan presidency that Prince Eze looked up to in the redemption of Abia State was indeed one of the greatest supporters/ problems of Orji in his ledership vacuity, mediocrity and hopelessness. Of course, pedestrian attempts by Orji’s megaphones to burst into the mind and oupourings of Prince Eze and recreate verifiable facts on the ground ended in an embarrassing fiasco. Orji’s case should be left to God as he quits to oblivion, karmic retributions and harvest of lethal seeds and landmines that await him in either Umuahia or Abuja— God forbid he succeeds in his warped and megalomaniac senatorial quest! I thought the Senate was meant for people with profound dignity, profuse honour, a deep sense of responsibility and a track record/profile of public service quintessence—not the obverse. Finally, for conniving with the Abia State Commisssioner of Police Hassan Adamu to abduct me by a combined team of 17 cops from Lagos to Umuahia handcuffed for 12 hours, driven on bumpy roads and clamped in virtually all the cells in Umuahia in unwarranted humiliation over frivilous charges of sedition, among other crazy counts, it will never be well with Theodore Ahamefula Orji, an amnesic, vainglorious and petty-minded mongrelous ingrate. As for his rudeness, disrespect, demonization, harassment, descration and futile dehumanization of Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, I leave the ingratitude to posterity. May Ochendo never find peace for the rest of his feeble life for his ruination of Abia State and other drunken atrocities against God and the human race. Amen. Here comes the end of ochendoistic stagnancy! To God be the glory.

Catholic training institute secures monotechnic status Boladale Bamigbola OSOGBO

abcock University Alumni Association, Ilishan -Remo, Ogun State is set to build alumni house worth N250m in the university. The President of the group, Dr. Owolabi Shitta stated this at the fund-raising committee inauguration recently, saying the initiative had been conceived long time ago but on hold due to land and financial constraints. “But the leadership of the institution has donated land that can accommodate a twostorey shopping mall while we are now looking for money to executive the project,” he explained. He disclosed that the mall which will serve

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Director, Babcock University Alumni Association, Mr. Adeboye Makinde; Chairman, Fund Raising Committee, Dr. Rotimi Oladele; President, Dr. Owolabi Shitta; Vice-Chancellor, Babcock University, Prof. Kayode Makinde and Dr. Adekunle Wright during the foundation laying ceremony of the university’s Alumni Association House at the institution, recently.

as a unifying force for the institution’s alumni would have shops, offices, event centres, and eateries, among others. Shitta however called on the former students of the institution, and well-meaning Nigeri-

ans to support the initiative which he said when completed would be one of the best in Nigerian universities. Speaking at the foundation laying ceremony shortly after the inauguration, the university’s

Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kayode Makinde said the edifice when completed would not only add to the infrastructural development of the institution but would help to unify graduates of the university.

31-year-old Oluponna Fish Farming Educational Resource Centre, Offer Centre, has been granted status of monotechnic. The centre, established by the Emeritus Bishop of Catholic Arch Diocese of Ibadan, His Grace, Felix Alaba Job in 1984, in conjunction with multinational companies, has been involved in training of youths in fishery, integrated farming, computer operations and entrepreneurship. Disclosing the new status during the inauguration of hostel facilities donated by ESSO Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, EEPNL, the director of the centre, Rev. Father Macarius Olatunji said by this development, the centre would start awarding National Innovative Diploma.

He said the centre would now to be known and called OFFER Institute of Agriculture and operating in conjunction with the National Board for Technical Education. Tracing the relationship between the centre and ESSO Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, EEPNL, Olatunji said the EEPNL had in 2007 with a grant assisted the centre to complete its administrative block. “Ever since, OFFERCentre in collaboration with EEPNL has jointly empowered 3 other sets of 20 youths each selected from across the country”. In all we have trained 8 set of youths under one year training programme at the centre,” he stressed. The cleric appealed to EEPNL not to discontinue its sponsorship of training in the centre.

Business

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Africa’s illicit trade value hits $50bn yearly –SON boss

Mixed reactions trail new Cybercrimes Act

Experts task corporate entities on focused CRS initiatives

CISLAC seeks recovery of NLNG’s $11.6bn outstanding dividends TOLA AKINMUTIMI

he Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari administration to ensure that the recommendations of the independent auditors in the Annual Reports of the Nigeria Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative, NEITI in the past 10 years are immediately implemented. It specifically urged the new government to make sure that about $11.6 billion (N2.32 trillion), which represents outstanding total dividends arising from loans and interest repayments from Federal Government’s investment in Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), among others, is also remitted into the nation’s coffers for national development. In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), on Tuesday, CISLAC observed that this figure, if verified, was more than 50 per cent of the total expenditure in the 2015 annual budget about 10 per cent bigger than the recurrent expenditure allocation and about 75 per cent of the capital budget provisions for the fiscal year. The civil society group therefore reiterated that this state of affairs had resulted because of lack of political will in previous

ABUJA

he visiting Chair of the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Clare Short, yesterday said only the Federal Government can effectively sanction oil and gas companies indicted by Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) for defrauding the country. He gave the hint during a meet-

AIRLINES’ FLIGHT SCHEDULES

…implementation of other NEITI audit recommendations administrations to implement remedial action emanating from recommendations from previous NEITI audit reports, which had been reinforced by the reports of several probe panels and Committees. It stated: “We recall that one of the President’s promises during the campaigns was to implement the recommendations from the NEITI reports and believe that the time to start is now. We are aware that lack of political will is what has long hindered the ability of

the Inter-ministerial Task Team IMTT and the Board of the NEITI to implement these recommendations, block leakages and recover unremitted funds. “CISLAC calls on the Federal Government to empower and strengthen the IMTT to effectively carry out its mandate. It might also be necessary to review the NETI Act 2007 to strengthen sanction mechanisms which are presently weak and probably empower the NEITI Board or some other independent Body to en-

force more stringent sanctions on erring stakeholders outside of the usually politicized and sluggish Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation”, it added. Acknowledging the ability and willingness of the NEITI to provide necessary information to assist the Federal Government in recovering these funds, the group stated that there will be no need to invest precious time and resources in setting up of any more superfluous Panels to conduct any fresh probes, investigations.

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

Dana Air

L-R: Interim National Secretary, Motor Dealers Association of Nigeria, Malam Suleiman Kato; Chairman, Northern Zone, Mr. Rotimi Fabiyi and Interim President, Alhaji Ibrahim Bello, during the national meeting of the association in Kaduna recently. PHOTO: NAN

...Only FG can sanction indicted firms on NEITI audit –EITI Chair CHIDI UGWU

ing of members of international board of EITI and NEITI and the Inter-ministerial task team on remediation, noted that government can achieve sanctions through effective enforcement of the laws of Nigeria. “The sanctions are enforcement of the laws of Nigeria. To insure that all the companies pay their taxes, and those taxes are properly managed and spent for the benefit of the people. The sanctions are in the hands of the government of course you know

that some international action is being taken against corruption” she said. Short said at this crucial point in Nigeria’s history the government was better placed to drive through reforms in the oil, gas and mining industry leveraging on the well detailed analyses done by NEITI. According to her, NEITI in its report did not only present the analyses of the problems of the oil, gas and the mining sector but also dealt with on missing or un-

explained money and how the system can be better improved so that the sector is better managed for proper benefit of the Nigerians. She recalled that about three years ago NEITI won the Chair’s award for excellence, through its analyses which also contain what needs to be done to reform the sector, making it easy for President Muhammadu Buhari’s government which has made commitment to eliminate corruption and reform the sector.

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

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

Business News

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

BEDC, Elizade varsity sign MoU on human capacity devt

he Benin Electricity Distribution Company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, to promote human capital development in the power sector. The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BEDC, Mrs. Funke Osibodu, told journalists in Benin, Edo State, that the MoU was part of efforts of the Disco’s core investor, Vigeo Power Ltd, to train new and existing personnel of the firm on best technical practices for

addressing the needs of electricity consumers in the country. Osibodu according to a statement, explained that the fiveyear partnership would cover the cost of training facilities in the university and remuneration of staff drawn from both inhouse academy and the private institution. She said that the Disco had recruited about 200 graduates in relevant fields in electricity management who had received on-the-job and rotational training and were set to commence the classroom training in the

university, which she said shared the vision of the company. “This signing of a Memorandum of Agreement commits us to work together closely towards our common goal, which is grooming a crop of skilled workforce as a way of building capacity in the power sector. “Each party will pursue numerous significant activities such as effective classroom trainings, fieldwork, physical activities and community development projects to mention a few,” she added.

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Valentine Aletor, described the initiative as a timely intervention to address major challenges such as human capital deficit and corruption practice in the power sector. Aletor said, “VIPL-EU joint initiative is to engender government-industry-university partnership in research and innovation for the projection of local initiatives, which would ultimately lead to the building of home-made alternative, indigenous technologies that are

easily adaptable to solving the emerging technical and engineering problems that have bedevilled electricity generation and distribution in Nigeria. He also noted that the partnership would serve as a major incentive to improve the university’s drive for global excellence in technological innovation, adding that the second phase of the programme would focus on the “production of light equipment and accessories to effect minor routine repairs within the power sector.”

Europe’s migrants remit $110bn in 2014 –IFAD ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN

he International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), disclosed in a report published in Rome, that the Europe’s 50-million-strong migrant population sent home 110 billion dollars in 2014. It stated that the funds constituted a critical lifeline for millions of individual households, helping families raise their living standards above subsistence and vulnerability levels. “It will help with improved health, education, housing and levels of entrepreneurship and supporting the livelihood of 150 million people.’’ The Fund reported that 109.4 billion dollars were wired from rich Western European nations and from Russia to poorer parts of Europe. It said that the benefiting countries include Balkans and former Soviet bloc countries, Africa, the Middle East, the Caucasus and Asia. IFAD said that a report from the UN’s rural development bank indicated that the top five senders of so-called migrant remittances were Russia, Britain, German, France and Italy.

It added that the top five beneficiaries were Nigeria, China, Morocco, India and Uzbekistan,. The Fund’s President, Dr. Kanayo Nwanze, said the figures were released amid growing intra-European tensions on migration. He said that mostly, with Italy complaining of receiving insufficient solidarity from the EU peers, as it deals with a record number of sea arrivals from North Africa. Nwanze argued that even though they should not be seen as a substitute for development aid, yet the remittances brought a measure of hope and stability to their countries of origin, and the international community could do more to help maximise their positive effect. He stated that if the G20 objectives to reduce money transfer costs to five per cent from the current levels of eight per cent were to be met, migrants could send an extra 2.5 billion dollars to help their families back home, adding that the immense potential of remittances for development was still largely under-utilised. He said that in spite of this it was within IFAD’s capacity to make every-hard earned euro, ruble, krona or Swiss franc sent home count even more.

L–R: Head, Corporate Services Division, The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Bola Adeeko; artiste, Banky W Wellington; Chairman, Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy (CECP) #GivingTide, Prof. Pat Utomi; Convener of CECP, Mrs. M.R.A. Adeleke and Group Managing Director /CEO, United Capital Plc, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Sanni, during the closing gong ceremony to commemorate the National Cancer Week at the weekend.

Bayelsa govt, German group flag-off pilot cleaning of oil spills OSAHON JULIUS YENAGOA

ayelsa State Government in collaboration with One Earth, One Ocean, Germany-based Non Governmental Organization, (NGO), on Tuesday commenced a clean-up of the oil spill sites in the state with Kalaba Community, Yenagoa Local Government Area, as the exercise’s flag-off point. Speaking at Kalaba spill site operated by Agip, Commissioner for Environment, Mr Iniruo Wills,

said that the state was collaborating with the German environmental group on the project, noting that the state’s environment remained the most polluted in the Niger Delta region. The Commissioner, who assured that the clean-up exercise would be extended to other polluted sites in the next phase, explained that the Ministry was conducting the clean-up on a test basis with new organic material that absorbs crude oil on water and marshy terrain. According to him, the NGO

had donated the Polymer based chemical and oil binder for trial purposes. “We are conducting this pilot clean-up test with the materials provided by the German Environmental group in consultation with National Oil Spills Detection and Response Agency. “The German NGO is providing the polymer based absorbent binder to be tested by the oil spill agency on oil polluted water, we have seen demonstration of the material at presentations but today we had it tested on a spill site.

World leaders raise fresh alarm over climate change risks SYLVA EMEKA-OKEREKE

eaders across the global have warned against the risk associated with climate change, saying such risk cannot be ignored. Agreeing to work together to bring down emissions, the leaders said 73 countries and 11 states and provinces are responsible for 54 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions and 52 percent of the Gross Domestic Product, GDP.

According to some global leaders, these countries joined 11 cities as well as over 1,000 businesses to drum supports for carbon pricing through series of initiatives, being announced at the UN Secretary-General’s Climate Leadership Summit. Already, China, South Africa, Russia and Marshall Islands are planning for carbon pricing. The business cuts across industry, energy, transportation and institutional investors with more than $24 trillion in assets.

The Summit had 74 countries and 23 sub-national jurisdictions with the additions of Czech Republic and Lagos State. Vice President of the World Bank Group and Special Envoy for Climate Change, Rachel Kyte said, “The science is clear. The economics are compelling. We are seeing a shift toward the economic architecture that will be necessary to avoid a 2-degreewarmer world, an architecture that supports green growth, jobs and competitiveness’’.

He said, this is a wake-up moment. Carbon pricing if expanded to this scale and then globally, has the potential to bring down emissions in a way that supports clean energy and low-carbon growth while giving businesses the flexibility to innovate and find the most efficient choices. Carbon pricing brings together two distinct groups that have each spoken in favour of climate action, but rarely worked together to address climate change. Governments, which have been

testing carbon trading systems, carbon taxes and businesses have started setting internal “shadow” carbon prices to help guide decisions for a cleaner future. China is the latest to begin testing waters with seven local pilot carbon markets helping government to plan for a national carbon trading system. In the private sector, there is a wide belief among business leaders that carbon will be priced and preparations are already underway in several companies.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business News

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Africa’s illicit trade value hits $50bn yearly –SON boss SYLVA EMEKA-OKEREKE

irector General of Standards Organisation of Nigeria, SON, Dr Joseph Odumodu, has put the value of illicit trade in Africa at $50 billion yearly. Odumodu, who made the disclosure in Lagos, said 80 percent

of phones and accessories in the country, were either substandard or counterfeit. He also estimated that 70 percent of television sets in Africa comprised fairly-used sets, noting with displeasure that in 2011, when he was appointed as Director General, the value of used tyres in the nation’s market had

hit about 50 million. The standards enforcement chief pointed out that Africa had become a dumping ground for sub-standard products with the attendant socio-economic risks to the various economies. Odumodu explained that the continental forum for the National Standards Bodies, NSBs, in Africa,

scheduled for next week in Abuja would strengthen continent’s anti-dumping policies, adding that ‘technical barriers to trade, anti-dumping, common standardisation policies for integration, competitiveness and economic emancipation will form parts of the agenda of the meeting. According to him, one of the

NAMA trains NCAA staff on e-flight clearance OLUSEGUN KOIKI

he Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, stated that it provided a two-day training and orientation exercise on the e-flight for the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority’s, NCAA’s, officials in Lagos. A statement by the agency’s Acting General Manager, Public Affairs, Mrs. Olajumoke Adetona, described the training as an interactive exercise as partici-

pants from NCAA offered modifications and other suggestions on ways to make the e-flight clearance software more encompassing and user-friendly. She stated that the trainees commended NAMA for blazing the trail with innovative software, which they considered first-rate standard and groundbreaking. The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation, Hajia Binta Adamu Bello, had last week commenced a facility tour of major airports across the coun-

try with a visit to Lagos Airport. Bello, who was accompanied by top officials of the ministry, was led by aviation Chief Executive Officers, CEOs, as she inspected the dry cargo terminal site under construction, old and new Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, power houses, new CCECC Terminal Building under construction as well as the arrival and departure wings of the international terminal building. NAMA stated that the Perm Secretary also took time to go

round the airport perimeter fence and inspected Surveillance and Navigational facilities like the TRACON site, Doppler Omnidirectional Radio Range (DVOR), Localizer and Glide Slope. She was also quoted as saying that the purpose of the visit was to enable her have a first-hand assessment of on-going projects in terms of progress and quality of work in relation to the funds being expended so as to make for an informed assessment.

objectives of the meeting is to mobilize NSBs into membership of ARSO with a view to driving standardization programmes necessary for strengthening competitiveness of Made-in-Africa” products as well as engendering regional and continental fusion into an economic block. Odumodu, who is also the President of ARSO, also disclosed that 34 Chief Executive Officers of the NSBs in Africa, including leaders of multi-national and global agencies were expected to grace the occasion. Tagged, “Boosting Intra-African Trade”, the forum has agreed to establish a continental free trade area by the year 2017, as a strategy to boost trade within the continent. The forum, is also expected to provide a veritable avenue for Africa’s integration, removal of all technical barriers to trade, antidumping, common standardisation policies for integration, competitiveness and economic emancipation among others.

World Bank empowers 4,000 Delta youths THEOPHILUS ONOJEGHEN WARRI

our thousand Delta State youths have been empowered through the world Bank project, Employment and Expenditure for Result, SEEFOR, programme in the last two years. The state coordinator of the programme, Ojoko, disclosed this during a one-day empowerment and capacity training workshop for beneficiaries programme in Asaba, the Delta State. Noting that the beneficiaries areengaged various capac-

ity such as refuse collection and roads maintenance, he said that the programme was being implemented in six local governments of the twenty-five council areas of the state. Ojoko explained that SEEFOR aimed at adding values to society through the programme, adding that the programme has since its introduction in 2013. He said: “The 4,000 youths were engaged to maintain roads and refuse collection in the six local government areas where the SEEFOR project is currently implemented. The six cities where

the programme is being implemented in the state are Asaba, Ughelli, Warri, Uvwie, Sapele and Udu.” While commending the State Government for keying into the skill acquisition programme, he said that the beneficiaries would be trained on money management, entrepreneurship skills and mentorship. He explained further that at the end of the training that interested beneficiaries would be enrolled into acquiring vocational and technical skills.

Nigeria’s Taylor appointed CTO’s Secretary General REGINA OTOKPA

L-R: Herbert Wigwe, Group Managing Director Access Bank Plc, Gbenga Oyebode, Chairman Access Bank Plc and 9-year old Adolfito Cambiaso receiving the Access Bank Cup from Herbert Wigwe at the Access Bank Polo Day’ last Saturday at the Guards Polo Club, Windsor, United Kingdom.

Nigerian, Mr Shola Taylor, was yesterday named the new Secretary-General of Common Wealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO), to take over from Prof Tim Unwin. His appointment was announced by the outgoing Secretary General at the ongoing Commonwealth Broadband Forum taking place in Abuja. Taylor until his appointment was the Chief Executive Officer of Kemilinks International, a global ICT consultancy firm based in Lagos and would commence operations in his new office from the 17th of September this year. A telecommunications engi-

neer by training, he brings to the CTO over 35 years of global experience in ICTs with government and the private sector. Previous positions held include regional director for Africa at Inmarsat (1994 - 1999), space technology coordinator for developing countries at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU, 1993 - 1994) and project director, also at the ITU (1987 - 1993). Twice elected as a member of the ITU’s Radio Regulations Board (vice-chair in 2004, and chair in 2005), Mr Taylor has a rich inside knowledge of international organisations. Early in his career, he worked in telecommunication engineering, including as senior engineer at Nigerian Telecommunications (1981 - 1985) and spectrum engineer at Intelsat (1985 - 1987).

Commenting on his appointment, he said: “I am both excited and honoured at being appointed as secretary-general of the CTO, a community of diverse membership, and one that has accrued tremendous strengths over a hundred years. Given the impact of ICTs in our lives and the enormous opportunities for the socioeconomic development of nations, I have accepted this challenge to make a positive contribution towards improved access to ICTs for all. “I look forward to working closely with the CTO’s members, the Secretarial staff and other stakeholders, to ensure that the CTO remains the preferred partner for sustainable ICT development for all its members”, Taylor added.

Taxation

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

VAT on services of Banks and other financial institutions

he Value Added Tax Act Cap V1 LFN 2004 (as amended) imposes a tax known as Value Added Tax (VAT) on taxable goods and services. Part 2 of the First Schedule to the Act only exempts services rendered by Community banks, Peoples bank and Mortgage institutions from VAT. Accordingly, all banks and financial institutions, except those exempted, are required to charge VAT on services rendered by them to their customers and account for same to the Federal Inland Revenue Service. This is in line with Section 2 of the Act, which stipulates that “the tax shall be charged and payable on the supply of all goods and services (in this Act referred to as “taxable goods and services”) other than those goods and services listed in the First Schedule to this Act.

Definition of Bank and other Financial Institutions These are legal entities incorporated under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA)of 1990 and engage in banking and financial activities as defined by the Banks and other Financial Institutions Act(BOFIA), 1991. They are companies within the financialsector of the Nigerian economy and are either publicly quoted or private companies. Banks will ordinarily include commercial banks, merchant banks and development banks while other financial institutions will include; finance houses, insurance companies, re-insurance companies,stock-brokerage firms, investment companies and financial consultants.

VAT Liability Banks in particular, charge commission, fees, or other charges for services rendered to theircustomers. VAT calculations are expected to be based only on the charges made forservices rendered. It should however, be noted that the focus of VAT is on the charges leviedon customers for the consumption of services rendered by Banks. The provision of loans and advances does not in itself constitute a vatable service but thereare other ancillary services to the provision of bank loan/advances or bank overdrafts, which are vatable. The documentation and perfection of loan/ overdraft agreements are examplesof such ancillary services and fees charged,which would attract VAT. The resultant interest chargeable on the loans and overdraft is however not vatable. Insurance companies’ brokers/agents earn commission, loss adjusters earn fees, surveyors earn fees, brokers earn commission and agents earn commission for various services rendered to the Insurance Companies. The services which generated these income are vatable services, andeven though the premium received on policies is not vatable as it represents cost of risk tothe insured, the commission paid to brokers/agent from premium will attract VAT; with theburden of VAT being borne by the insurance company itself.

Vatable Services Rendered by Financial Institutions In arriving at what constitutes vatable

Ogungbesan

Emefiele

financial services, a distinction should be made betweenactivities that constitute return on investment and consumption of services rendered by financialinstitutions. All charges arising from the services of banks and financial institutions will ordinarily attract VAT and they include among others, the following: • Commisssions/fees charged on forex trading or remittance; • Commission on turnover (COT), ledger fees etc; • Legal and other fees chargeable on lease arrangements; • Fees charged for advisory services e.g. mergers and acquisition, financial strategy counseling etc; • Fees chargeable on public/private issues; • Debt conversion fees; • Fees/commission on asset trading; • Fees earned on fund management; • Fees and commissions earned on letters of credit/documentary collection to finance import/export; • Commissions on sale of Bankdrafts/certified cheques; • Fees chargeable on stock-brokerage and trust services; • Commissions paid to brokers, reinsurers, underwriters and other insurance agents by an insurer.

VAT Registration and Rendition of Returns

Services of Banks and Other Financial Institutions not Liable to VAT A simple criteria for determining whether a service is vatable or not is the identification of those activities that constitute return on investment as distinct from those that represent consumption of services. The services of Banks and other Financial Institutions that willnot attract VAT include: • Premium on insurance policies; • Interest on loans/advances and overdraft facilities; • Interest on savings accounts; • Interest on bank deposits; • Dividends; • Interbank placements; and • Profit/gain on disposal of government securities.

Banks and other Financial Institutions are taxable persons within the provisions of the VAT Act and all services rendered by them are taxable with the exception of the servicesof Peoples Bank, Community Banks and Mortgage Institutions which are exempted by theVAT Act. These Banks and Other Financial Institutions are to register for tax with the relevant tax office and obtain TIN. VAT returns are tobe made regularly to the relevant tax office within twenty one (21) days after the month oftransaction.

Accounting Procedure and Records to be kept by Banks The mode of operation in the banks does not permit the issuance of tax invoices to customers. The VAT charges therefore have to bereflectedin the customers’ statements of accounts in order to enhance disclosure and easy verificationby tax officers. Banks and other Financial Institutions are required to adopt the following simple methods of recording their transactions for VAT purposes: (i) When any service is identified as vatable, internal entries are raised by the Bank for the cost of the service plus 5% VAT. (ii) The Bank is expected to debit the account of the customer accordingly with the cost of the service plus the 5% VAT charged. (iii) Credit the Income account of the Bank or Institution with the income elementof the charge excluding the VAT (iv)Credit the FIRS VAT account in the particular Bank or Institution with the 5% VATdeducted from (ii) to arrive at (iii). Section 16 subsection (b) provides that where input tax exceeds output tax, the taxpayer will be entitled to refund of the excess tax from the FIRS on production of such documents as theFIRS may, from time to time require. With regards to banks and otherfinancial institutions, thisis not applicable because of the provision of Section 17 of Value Added Tax Act on allowable input tax, which provides that input tax on any overhead, service, and general administration of any business which otherwise can

be expended through the income statement (profit and loss accounts) shall not be allowed as a deduction from output tax. It is a common knowledge that the bank and other Financial Institutions render services; they do not produce goods and therefore regarded as final consumer of those goods purchased or servicesrendered to them. In this connection, all input VAT payable in respect of assets purchasedfor use in the banks and other Financial Institutions should be added to the cost of the assets on which capitalallowances may be claimed. Similarly, all VAT payable in respect of services consumed by thebank should be regarded as part of normal operational expenses chargeable to Statement of Profit or Loss Account. Under no circumstance should input tax on such items be claimed or deducted from output tax collected. Banks and other Financial Institutions cannot claim or deduct any input tax suffered. The entire amount collected on behalf of the FIRS should be promptly remitted in whole as prescribed by the law.

The Central Bank The position of the Central bank with regards to VAT payment is not different from that of otherbanks in the system. The Central Bank performs nearly all the services listed in paragraph 4 aboveand also acts as banker to other banks. It is therefore expected that VAT would be charged on payments made to it by the banks for vatable services rendered to them. This makes it necessaryfor the Central Bank to register for VAT purposes.

Offences and Penalties Banks and other Financial Institutions have obligations to fulfill under the VAT Act like other taxable or registered persons. Part V of the Act contains the list of offences and penalties to be imposed. These include among others: • Failure to register within six (6) months of the existence of a bank; • Failure to issue tax invoice (debit note showing amount of VAT collected in the case of banks);failure to charge and remit VAT collected; • Failure to keep proper records and accounts; • Rendition of incorrect or false returns. For these offences, stringent penalties are imposed to check possible defaults. Banks and other Financial Institutions are taxable persons within the provisions of the VAT Act and all their services are vatable except those specifically mentioned in the First Schedule. Bank officials are strongly advised to familiarize themselves with the provisions of the VAT Act. Whatever is peculiar to any Bank or Financial Institution in terms of procedures which has not been dealt with in this circular should be referred to the FIRS without delay. Finally, where computerization has been established and it is likely to skip these procedures, the FIRS should be notified of the system in operation and how it would take care of all procedures without leaving out anything uncaptured.

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Info Tech

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Mixed reactions trail new Cybercrimes Act The enactment of the Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention Bill into law at the twilight of the end of the immediate past administration has continued to elicit reactions from a broad spectrum of the ICT industry. Although many stakeholders lauded the legislation, its implementation and key issues it seeks to address are seen as the tasks ahead writes ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN.

aving waited for several years after the revolution of telecoms in the country, stakeholders finally heaved a sigh of relief recently, when a bill seeking to punish cyber criminals and protect telecoms infrastructure was signed into law by former President Goodluck Jonathan. Although, the quest from the stakeholders’ in the nation’s telecom industry is for a specific law that addresses the vandalism of telecoms infrastructure such as base stations and fibre optic cables, yet the consensus from the stakeholders is that the new law is a welcome development. The Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention Act provided for punishment ofany crime or injury on Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), sales of pre-registered SIM cards, unlawful access to computer systems, Cyber-Terrorism, amongst others. The Act lists offences and penalties including unlawful access to computers, unlawful operation of cyber cafes, system interference, intercepting electronic messages, emails, e-money transfer, tampering with critical infrastructure, computer-related forgery as punishable under the Act. The battle against cybercrimes became fiercer in the country when the activities of those making money through cybercrimes activities began to rob on the image of Nigeria such that today, those involved in the act are either referred to as 419,’ derived from the Section 419 of the Criminal Code on Fraudulent Activities or simply as Yahoo boys. While the battle against cybercrimes rages, a new breed of criminal elements that vandalise telecoms infrastructure emerged which resulted to a twin battle for the stakeholders. As the media was spreading the news of those counting their losses resulting from the activities of cybercriminals and vandals of telecoms infrastructure, key industry association such the Nigerian Internet Group, NIG, the Associationof Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, ATCON, Association of Licensed Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, ALTON began to agitate for a law to curb the menace of telecoms vandals and that of cybercriminals. To solve these problems, there were several collaborations in the industry. While the Ministry of Communications Technology and the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC collaborate to sponsor a bill on the issues before the National Assembly to make telecom facilities, Critical National Infrastructure, the industry associations were on the other hand tackling cybercrime along aside that of telecoms infrastructure protection. Managing Director of PiNET Group,

EACH TIME I GO OUT FOR STAKEHOLDERS

MEETING I HEAR PEOPLE SAY THAT WE HAVE NOW HAVE A TELECOMS INFRASTRUCTURE BILL.

AND I ASKED THEM

BEFORE THIS TIME WAS IT NOT AN OFFENCE TO DESTROY A BASE STATION OR CUT THE FIBRE OPTIC Ajayi

Engr. LanreAjayi, who played a leading role then both as former president of the Nigerian Internet Group and now as President of ATCON, told National Mirror that the news of the passage of the cybercrime bill into law was a positive development for the industry saying that he has studied the Act and he is satisfied with the work the National Assembly has done. Reacting to the linking of the telecoms protection bill with the cybercrime bill, which eventually came out as one in the Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention Act, he said that the Act clearly addresses his quest as a stakeholder in the industry. According to him, the fact that there is no separate Act for telecoms infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure does not mean that Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention Act, issues on the protection of telecoms infrastructure has not be addressed. He said that Section 3, 1 of the Act has taken care of that worry noting that the Acts states that it is the National Security

CABLE OF TELECOMS

SERVICE COMPANY

Adviser that will advise the president on what constitutes Critical National Information Infrastructure. He stated further that the Act can be reviewed by regulation as often as the office of the National Security Adviser desires adding that it makes better than to be very specific in the Act concerning infrastructure vandalism. He added that by mentioning in specific terms of base stations or fibre optic cables or other telecoms infrastructure as critical national infrastructure limits the scope of the Act. Ajayi disclosed the Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention Act will be one of the key issues that will come up for discussion when ATCON holds its stakeholders strategic meeting soon. The ATCON president who was a leading voice for the cybercrime had recently advocated that the signing of the bill into law by

the former president will not only attract more online trade but create confidence in the minds of foreign investors saying that foreigners will be willing to do online business with Nigerians. Nigerian Internet Group, NIG, President, Engr. Bayo Banjo however did not see anything new in the Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention Act which addresses the quest for the protection of telecoms infrastructure . According to him, there had existed before the law on Critical National Information Infrastructure, CNII, was enacted a law that protected the facilities of the NITEL describing the whole exercise that led to the new Act as the activities of those that want to score political point. He said his concern was that the country did not have the political will to enforce the law saying that each time I go out for stakeholders meeting I hear people say that we have now have a telecoms infrastructure bill. And I asked them before this time was it not an offence to destroy a base station or cut the fibre optic cable of telecoms services company. So, how will the new one work?” He disclosed that there is every single law to stop corruption but despite that, the nation has not been able to stamp out corruption, stressing that what we need is the commitment to enforce the law. He however noted that telecoms infrastructure can be brought into the cybercrime Act since it is part of what is required to access the internet and could be at one risk or the other. Also Chairman of the Africa ICT Alliance, Mr Jimson Olufuye, noted that “what is needed is the comprehensive implementation to combat problems enumerated in the new law which have brought embarrassment to the nation and huge investment losses to organisations and individuals”. Chief Executive Officer, Internet Solutions Limited, Mr OlusolaTeniola, said that although he was yet to see the full content of the Act but that it is a great news that the bill has finally become law. He said that what the industry is waiting for now is to see how the law will be fully implemented to secure telecoms infrastructure in the country, which before now has been at the mercy of vandals. He called for the effective use of the Act to clean up the ugly image that cybercrime has brought to bear on the country saying that beyond financial loss to victims it has also affected online business across international frontiers. A source in one of the infrastructure companies said that they are waiting to see how the law will secure their facilities saying that there had be laws before now but yet vandalism of infrastructure remains a regular occurrence.

Info Tech

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Tech Box Adobe takes video editing beyond desktop

Dollar fluctuations reduce PC shipment to Nigeria STORIES: ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN

he volume of personal computers, PCs, shipment to Nigeria from across the world in the first quarter of 2015 fell by 9.6 percent due to the dollar fluctuations in the Nigeria and the global market. The same scenario was also reflected in markets like Turkey, Egypt, and Algeria where the dollar was rate was unstable in the period under review, according to report from International Data Corporation, IDC, on released on this week. Research Manager for Personal Computing, Systems, and Infrastructure Solutions at IDC FouadCharakla said that low oil prices have also had a negative impact on almost all parts of the region, with the extent varying from country to country.

dobe now has solutions on how to capture those colours and reuse them with its latest version of videoediting application, Adobe Premiere Pro CC 2015. Adobe Premiere Clip and Adobe Hue CC, which attempt to expand video editing beyond the desktop. Adobe Premiere Clip has been around since last year; it allows you make simple edits to video on your phone and then upload the composition to Premiere Pro, which will retain the edits and let you make additional ones. Hue CC is new; you can use it to take photos and capture their “looks”—colour hue sets—which you can then import into Premiere CC and apply them to other videos. So, for example, you could capture a cold, cloudy beach, with its blueish, muted colors, and apply them to a nice, short video of a large bull chasing you. Now, you can create a look in Hue CC or in Premiere Pro CC, but you can only apply a stock

look in Premiere Clip; you can’t create or import one, though an updated version of Clip that will add these capabilities is due any day, according to Adobe. The new Lumetri Colour palette lets you create looks and see a preview of how they’ll look on your video. You can create looks in Premiere Pro CC 2015 by using a new Lumetri Colour panel. Premiere Pro picked up the Lumetri Colour engine from Adobe SpeedGrade in 2013, but then, you couldn’t create looks in Premiere Pro; you had to create them in SpeedGrade. Now, you can import and export look files in Premiere Pro, but only using the Lumetri Colour panel. In the Effects panel, you’ll find Lumetri Presets but you still can’t add any to this list unless you use SpeedGrade. However, if you drag a Lumetri Preset to a video on your timeline, it appears in your Effects Control panel as a Lumetri Colour effect, and you can edit it there. You can access looks from your Libraries panel, which pulls from your online Creative Cloud account, but they do not show up as options in your Effects panel or even the Lumetri Colour panel.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

He also said that inventory pileups from the previous quarter also caused the Turkey market to decline faster year on year, while ongoing political and social unrest in the ‘Rest of Middle East’ sub-region compounded the decline for MEA as a whole. The report, which covered Middle East and Africa, MEA, PC market said that shipments to the region was 4.3 million units attributing the market’s poor performance to currency fluctuations in a number of the region’s key markets, as well as to the ongoing instability in global oil prices. The firm’s research showed that portable PC shipments declined 9.4 percent to 2.7 million units, while desktop shipments fell 10.0 percent to 1.6 million units. IDC said revealed that the top three vendor positions in the region remained unchanged, with

each of the top three vendors experiencing annual growth despite the market’s significant overall decline. The report explained that HP continued to lead in terms of market share, growing 6.5 percent yearly, while Lenovo maintained second position with growth of 5.3 percent adding that third-placed Dell’s shipments were up 3.5 percent over the same period, while fourth-placed Toshiba suffered a considerable downturn of 34.3 percent. IDC reported that on the top five list, Asus posted a yearly decline of 7.2 percent noting that the segment of market players that suffer the most were local desktop assemblers, as they faced stiff competition from multinational PC brands and, more importantly, the refurbished PC market in many parts of the region.

Managing Director, New Horizons Solutions Ltd, Mr. Tim Akano (left); Vice Chancellor, Babcock University, Illishan, Ogun State, Prof. Kayode Makinde; Chairman, New Horizons management board, Mr. Dotun Suleiman (right) and others, during the foundation laying ceremony of ultra modern international IT and e-Business skills certification building at the university campus, at the weekend.

Philips tackles counterfeiters with hologram technology

etermined to stem the tide of counterfeiters currently creating challenges for its product in the Nigerian market, global consumer product maker has resorted to the use of the hologram technology. The company has also adopted the short code technology that will make consumers to verify the authenticity of every product that bear its name. General Manager, Consumer Lifestyle, Philips Innovation Nigeria Limited, West Africa, Chioma Iwuchukwu-Nweke made the disclosure during the flag-off “Buy Original” campaign stated that Philips is setting up an text message number for authentication of the Philips Lighting portfolio in case of doubt. Iwuchukwu-Nweke explained

that the consumer (in Nigeria) has to send the 16-digit serial number of the lighting product via text message to the short code 20822 and they will receive immediate feedback on whether the product they are planning to buy or have bought is genuine or fake. She said that the informative multi-year outreach aimed at protecting consumers, creating awareness about counterfeit products in the market and educating consumers in identifying an original genuine product versus a counterfeit one. Making reference to Global Intellectual Property Centre (GIPC) world-wide report, she said that cross border trade in physical counterfeits alone cost the global economy USD 250 billion a year. According to her, in Africa,

counterfeit products are posing serious concerns for local economies and brands who have worked hard to build reputation and consumer confidence in their markets. She explained that consumers in most instances aren’t even aware that they are buying counterfeit products saying that Philips wants to put consumers in a position that they are confident that they are purchasing an original Philips product. “A genuine product is subject to quality and safety control and will protect the consumers and their family. It also provides customers the after sales guarantee and the peace of mind that the after-sales commitment will be honoured”, she said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Info Tech

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Government Technology

Internet access, challenge to government STORIES: ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN

overnment across African are still burdened with the challenges of providing internet access to its growing population. According to Cisco, only 39 percent of the global population enjoys access to the Internet despite the fact that more than half now owns a mobile phone and Africa having one of the highest mobile phone penetrations. General Manager, Cisco, Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone,Mr. Dare Ogunlade said that the lack of access to the Internet is depriving many Africans of the opportunity to take full advantage of e-learning as well as online financial, data and health services. He stressed that governments can shape policies that will spur development of broadband access saying that while Kenya’s networked readiness ranking improved, climbing six places to 86th position, the same is not true for other major African economies. He explained that while Nigeria dropped seven places and now ranks 119th South Africa dropped five places and now ranks 75th

leaving Egypt dropping three places to be at the 94th position. According to Ogunlade, Cisco has discovered that technology helps people find innovative solutions to address societal problems saying that “We believe there has never been a better time to combine human ingenuity and technological innovation to improve the lives of all Africans.” He added that as home to nine of the world’s 15 fastest growing economies, Africa is ripe for transformation and is an increasingly attractive environment for global business investments noting that Technology is at an inflection point and African economies need to prioritise ICT adoption to take full advantage of the benefits that embracing digital transformation strategies will offer. Commenting on the World Economic Forum’s Global Information Technology Report 2015, Ogunlade said the report suggests that investing in infrastructure and education; supporting the development of local content; and creating an enabling environment by promoting competition through sound regulation will correct the imbalance in many African countries today. He disclosed that Cisco is com-

mitted to working with public and private sector organisations in Africa to work on strategies for the digital transformation, thereby helping them transform their IT strategy, connect everything, embrace analytics, and secure their technology and operations. According to Ogunlade, Africa

can make massive strides in connecting more citizens and bringing about positive social and economic change by improving its Networked Readiness saying that with political will and commitment from the private sector, progress can be made in bringing the benefit of ICTs to more

people. He also said that Africa is already facing the next wave of the Internet – the Internet of Everything (IoE) and that Africa needs to prioritise ICT development if it is to benefit from the new experiences and efficiencies that the IoE will bring.

Sony reaches $2m Shenmue III game target on Kickstarter

ony has reached its target of $2m (£1.3m) to fund the making of Shenmue III within hours of launching a Kickstarter campaign. The countdown to the start of the fund-raising campaign took place on stage during the Sony press conference at E3. The press event also saw Sony announce that long-awaited game The Last Guardian would soon be released. Open world action games Shenmue I and II are well-known among gamers and are often on lists of all-time best games. Creator Yu Suzuki appeared on stage at the Sony event to say that he chose to crowd-fund the project to let fans have more of a

role in bringing the game to life. Other well-known games also featured during the press conference. Many were surprised to hear that The Last Guardian was almost ready for release as it has been under development for almost a decade. It is being put together by the team that worked on the widely praised Shadow of the Colossus, and involves the adventures of a young boy and a giant bird/cat hybrid creature called Trico who must escape from a derelict and dangerous castle. Footage from the game showed Trico and the boy working together to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles as they make their way

through the castle. Sony also generated much comment among attendees by announcing that Final Fantasy VII: Remake will be coming first to PlayStation 4. The game will be a complete overhaul of the original that was first released in 1997. Maybe the expectation was too high. Maybe it’s being saved for another special event. Whatever the reason, the VR -shaped hole in Sony’s PlayStation conference will perhaps go down as something of a disappointment. Andrew House, head of Sony Computer Entertainment, came on stage to announce that Project Morpheus - its VR headset - would allow multiplayer.

Financial Technology

Enterprise solutions growth link to corporate governance quest ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN

he quest by more enterprise to pay attention to issues relating to reporting standards, governance, and risk management maybe responsible to the rapid growth in demand for Enterprise Resource Planning, ERP, solutions in Nigeria, across all sectors of business.

Also the quest to make sure that these issues meet international requirement is also said to be one of the most important recent developments in the adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards, IFRS, in Nigeria. Regional Director, Sage West Africa, Mr. Magnus Nmonwu who made the observation revealed further that there is a growing focus on promoting sound corpo-

rate governance and enforcing regulatory compliance from the Nigerian government. He added that the growing foreign investor interest in the country is driving interest in enterprise business applications in Nigeria stating that the Federal Government and tax authorities are now taking a tougher line on compliance than ever before. He disclosed that companies

L-R: Director, Enterprise Development Centre, Pan-Atlantic University, Mr. Peter Bamkole; a winner of Diamond Bank Building Entrepreneurs Today (BET4) Award, Mr. Uzokwe Ike and MD/CEO, Diamond Bank Plc, Mr. Uzoma Dozie, during the award dinner and gala nite in Lagos, recently. PHOTO: ADEYANJU OLOWOJOBA

now find themselves under pressure to improve financial reporting and corporate governance to address the demands of multinational business partners, investors, and customers. According to him, the country is becoming an increasingly important player on the global economic stage stressing that “one consequence of that is we are seeing a bigger focus on compliance.” Nmonwu said government understands that a stable regulatory compliance framework is essential to attracting business investment and growing the economy, and there is also a concerted focus on growing the tax base. He said the IFRS is important for Nigeria because it makes global comparison of financial statements for companies easier, saying that it ensures transparency, reliable disclosure and a better quality of financial reporting, all of which give investors more confidence in the companies in which they are planning to invest. “We’re seeing many international companies looking to invest in Nigeria, and they want a clear

view of the financial health of the companies they are evaluating as possible partners, customers or investors,” Nmonwu said. He explained that they want to see financials reported using global standards adding that IFRS has already done a great deal to improve investor confidence in Nigeria. Nmonwu said further that Nigerian enterprises are investing in ERP solutions to cater for a newly demanding regulatory environment stating that Sage offers a range of compliant software packages that help businesses to produce the reports that IFRS requires from them. He said the software makes it easier to capture data and information required for statutory reporting under IFRS, and that companies that don’t have automated software in place will find it difficult to keep track of their financials. “Our software is up to date with the latest relevant local laws and regulations in Nigeria to help businesses become and remain compliant,” Nmonwu said.

Global News

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Airbus has ‘no intention’ of pulling out of UK over EU S peaking to the BBC at the Paris Airshow, Mr. Bregier said the aircraft manufacturer was committed to its 16,000 employees based in the UK. He added Airbus had no plans to relocate its British factories. Airbus has said in the past that a “Brexit” might change its plans. Last month, Airbus UK’s chief executive, Paul Kahn, said that if the UK voted to leave the EU in the planned in-out referendum, Airbus would reconsider future investment in the UK. On Tuesday, Mr. Bregier admitted he would have to make a judgement about what the consequences would be for the competitiveness of his business following the referendum. His comments come as ministers tabled an amendment to the EU referendum bill on Monday evening, ruling out holding the plebiscite on 5 May 2016, the same day as Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish assembly elections and local elections. It means the referendum will now almost certainly take place next autumn or not take place until 2017, depending on the prime minister’s ability to negotiate concessions from his European counterparts and despite calls for the UK to get the vote over

Airbus aircraft

with. Businesses have repeated raised concerns about the level of uncertainty caused by the timing of the referendum and the potential economic harm caused as investment decisions are delayed as a result. Last month, Mr. Kahn said the UK must compete for international investment. “The best way to guarantee this is by remaining part of the EU,” he said. “I believe that it is vital for a company such as Airbus to come out and

make a stand in favour of Britain remaining in the European Union.” Airbus, the world’s second-largest aircraft manufacturer after Boeing, employs 6,000 people at its site at Broughton, north Wales, where it assembles the wings for all Airbus aircraft. Several thousand more people are employed at Filton, near Bristol, designing wings and testing landing gear. Mr. Kahn stressed that if the UK were to leave the EU, the company would not suddenly close.

U.S. building permits near eight-year high; starts pull back

.S. permits for future home construction surged to a near eight-year high in May, suggesting a building up of momentum in housing and the broader economy after a dismal performance at the start of the year. While housing starts fell last month, that followed a robust gain in April and groundbreaking remained at levels consistent with a strengthening housing market. Housing’s improving fortunes, marked by rising home prices and sales, are likely to be acknowledged by Federal Reserve officials, who were preparing to gather for a twoday policy meeting on Tuesday. Policymakers have repeatedly singled out housing as one of the weak spots in the economy. The U.S.

A house in U.S

central bank is expected to raise interest rates later this year. It has kept its short-term lending rate near zero since December 2008. “Residential construction has been the laggard in this recovery and the moon shot surge in new permits today means the final piece of the recovery puzzle is now falling into place,” said Chris Rupkey, chief financial economist at MUFG Union Bank in New York. Building permits jumped 11.8 per cent to a seasonally adjusted annual pace of 1.28 million units, the highest since August 2007, the Commerce Department said. It was the second straight month of increase. Permits have been above a 1 million-unit pace since July. Groundbreaking dropped 11.1 per

cent to a 1.04 million-unit rate. While that partially reversed the prior month’s large gain, April starts were revised up to a 1.17 million-unit rate, the highest since November 2007. Economists had forecast both building permits and housing starts falling to a 1.10 million-unit pace last month. April starts were previously reported to have increased to a 1.14 million-unit rate. The Commerce Department report came on the heels of solid data on retail sales, consumer confidence and employment that have suggested the economy was rebounding from the first quarter’s soft patch, when gross domestic product contracted. Growth estimates for the second quarter are currently as high as a 3.3 per cent annual rate. The dollar rose against a basket of currencies and U.S. Treasury debt prices were higher on safe-haven bids amid worries Greece could default on its debt. U.S. stocks were trading marginally higher after a two-day losing streak. But the S&P homebuilding index .SPLRCHOME fell 0.55 per cent. D.R. Horton Inc (DHI.N), the largest U.S. homebuilder, slipped 0.52 per cent. Lennar Corp (LEN.N), the nation’s second-largest homebuilder, fell 0.60 per cent.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

UK inflation rate turns positive

ransport costs helped the UK’s inflation rate turn positive in May after one month of negative inflation. Inflation, as measured by Consumer Prices Index (CPI), rose to 0.1% in May, up from -0.1 per cent in April. The biggest contribution to the rise came from transport, notably air fares, the Office for National Statistics said. In April, CPI inflation turned negative for the first time since 1960, mainly due to a drop in air and sea fares. He added that the falls in food and fuel costs over the past year “have eased this month, helping to push inflation up”. While the prices of food and fuel rose in May from the previous month, the prices were still lower than a year earlier. However, while the overall effect of food and fuel on CPI inflation pulled the rate down by about 0.5 percentage points in May, this was less pronounced than the month before when the prices had a negative effect of 0.7 percentage points. Ben Brettell, senior economist at Hargreaves Lansdown, said that “seasonal factors surrounding the timing of the Easter holiday were at work in last month’s figures - CPI inflation was pushed down by cheaper air fares relative to last year. Now those factors have

David Cameron

dropped out of the calculation we are back where we started.” Negative inflation “proved both marginal and fleeting”, said Howard Archer, chief UK and European economist at IHS Global Insight. “We doubt that deflation will recur in the UK, although it cannot be completely ruled out if oil prices take a renewed appreciable downward lurch,” he said. Nevertheless, inflationary pressures “remained limited in May and core inflation was still only 0.9 per cent after hitting a 14-year low of 0.8 per cent in April,” Mr Archer added. Martin Beck, senior economic advisor to the EY ITEM Club, said that CPI inflation measure could briefly turn negative again during the summer.

Nestle to destroy noodles worth $50m

ndia’s food safety regulator says tests have found the instant noodles “unsafe and hazardous” and has accused Nestle of failing to comply with food safety laws. The company insists that the noodles are safe and is challenging the ban. Nestle has 80% of India’s instant noodles market. The company said in a statement that the value of withdrawn noodles include stocks taken off the shelves and stocks stored in factories and with distributors. “There will be additional costs to take into account, for example bringing stock from the market, transporting the stock to the destruction points, destruction cost etc. The final figure will have to be confirmed at a later date,” Nestle said. Earlier this month, Nestle began withdrawing the Maggi brand from stores, after regulators said they found higher-than-allowed levels of lead in some packets. The company is challenging the ban in the high court in the city of Mumbai and “raised issues of in-

terpretation” of India’s food safety laws. Nestle’s global chief executive Paul Bulcke has asked to see the results of the laboratory tests and promised to return Maggi to store shelves soon. Several states have also been testing the noodles for the chemical monosodium glutamate, widely known as MSG. The instant noodles arrived in India in 1983 and can be found in corner shops across the country.

Indian PM, Narendra Modi

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, June 11, 2015

Brands & Marketing

Experts task corporate entities on focused CSR initiatives Corporate organizations have over the years embarked on corporate social responsibility with the aim of giving back to society. But often, the CSR projects are not need based or lack adequate care. DAVID AUDU reports.

hen the Nigerian government through the federal Executive Council (FEC) in 2008 approved the development of a Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR, policy for the country, it was to instill ethical discipline in Nigerian businesses. The then minister of National Planning Commission, Dr Sanusi Daggash, who gave details of the memorandum, stressed that the policy would lead to the adoption of responsible business practices by organizations, with a view to improving the society at large. It was understood then that the policy would include “beyond law commitment”, activities that will necessitate an expectation to ‘give back’ to the society. Pulled together, the policy would ensure corporate governance and ethics, health and safety, human rights, human resource management, anti-bribery and anti corruption measures. A recent global report notes that today, “there is needs for helping hearts and hands to improve the quality of life, and there are many who give selflessly to altruistic activities. Whether we donate our time, money or talent, the ultimate goal is to make an impact in the world around us. We also expect the same from the companies we purchase from, work for and who also depend on the community for their profitability”. It is therefore interesting to note that report on consumers about social responsibility have indicated that, overwhelmingly, consumers prefer to buy products from firm with proven CSR record. Specifically, a Nielson global report on CSR show that about 67 per cent, more than two-thirds of respondents in the online survey, say they prefer to work for a socially responsible company, while 55 per cent, more than half say they are willing to pay extra for products and services from companies that are committed to positive social and environmental impact. In advanced environments, where consumer rights awareness and sensitivity are high, the report speaks volume and firms would double over each other to win consumer confidence. What this clearly implies is that firms that are positively disposed to CSR win the trust and confidence of the people. But has CSR in Nigeria positively changed people’s attitude such that will make them to begin to align with com-

NIGERIAN COMPANIES ARE COMING UP HIGH ON CSR REPORT, BUT TO MAJORITY OF THEM, IT IS ONE ASPECT OF THEIR PUBLIC RELATIONS GAME panies doing CSR? And how sustainable and need based are CSR efforts by companies operating in Nigeria? It has been observed that beyond making profits, businesses are accountable for the totality of the impact they exact on the community and the environment. This is what is denoted by Corporate Social Responsibility, which essentially means that any company should be a good neighbour within its host community, and by extension, within the global community. CSR activities are increasingly targeted at overall national development goals. However, there is also an increasing need to shift from casual approach to structured project based and accountability approach. Recent reports in Nigeria media that a certain telecommunication operator (the four operators in Nigeria have CSR in education in one form or the other) is now evacuating computers it gave to a frontline university for lack of use and maintenance has called to the fore the need based focus as peg of CSR efforts. Every year billions of money is invested into CSR effort in Nigeria, but many have been asking to what extent these investments have benefited the so called target community. The case of the evacuation of the computer from an ivory tower, which it is expected should know the benefit and keep them in top shape, is just a tip of the iceberg. Several community based projects have been abandoned as soon as they are fin-

ished. Some reasons given are that the communities do not see the immediate benefits of such projects. Besides, some roads are name after some corporate organization with the understanding that the firm will take care of its maintenance. We know of a popular milk company which adopted one street, but have not been able to live up to expectation. According a lecturer in Pan Atlantic University who wishes to remain anonymous, who confided in National Mirror, said while Nigerian companies are coming up high on CSR report, but to majority of them, it is one aspect of their public relations game. He said as a university with strong CSR programmes, the need for focused CSR initiative is imperative for community corporate relationship, more so, for national harmony and development Some analysts believe that corporate should shift the focus of their social responsibility agenda from merely charity oriented interventions to development oriented programs. “In order to utilise their designated CSR funds, industries seek to develop needbased programs, ascertain the impact of existing programs and forge publicprivate partnerships to administer these programs. This also implies that activities under CSR should be implemented by specialised agencies and not by the staff of the companies. Specialised

agencies would include community based organizations (NGOs), academic institutes, trusts and missions, selfhelp groups, etc. Today, the line between corporate entities and their business environments is increasingly becoming thinner. The era of corporations being separate and distinct from the communities where they operate is fast going into extinction. Corporate organisations are gradually adopting new strategies and model of business operation, with an underlying objective of directly connecting to the needs, aspirations and goals of, not only the immediate members of their operating communities, but also those of the wider communities. Some identified areas for such need based intervention include Access to clean water, improving access to sanitation, eradicating poverty and hunger, combating non communicable diseases, ensuring environmental sustainability and reducing child mortality Corporate such as FirstBankplc, Zenith Bank, MTN Nigeria, Etisalate, amomg others have been adjudged to have robust CSR initiatives, but have been tasked further to make it more need based. For example, the 2013 CSR report of WAPCO operations indicates that the company’s annual budget appropriation on community development between 2006 and 2012 had continued to witness a steady growth from an expenditure of N77 million in 2006 to N189 million in 2013. An authoritative source confirmed that the CSR budget for year 2014 was over N200 million. According to Lafarge, “Our Sustainability Ambitions 2020 will help us to make a net positive contribution to society. This is not about philanthropy; it’s about defining our role towards society while at the same time creating value for shareholders, customers, employees and communities. Speaking to cross section of journalists at an interactive forum recently, First Banks Head of Corporate Communications, Folake Ani-Mumuney, noted the banks sustainability efforts over the years, saying it runs into several billions and targeted to the needs of the host communities and individuals where applicable.

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Djembe Communications plans expansion in Nigerian market DAVID AUDU

jembe Communications, a pan-African communications consultancy agency, has embarked on an expansion plan to further grow its presence and build industry capacity in sub-Saharan African markets. The agency is targeting the growth in demand from both African and international organizations for more sophisticated communications as these organizations look to realize the region’s significant economic potential. According to the Managing Director, Mitchell Prather, “Africa’s economic growth potential, coupled with the region’s very young demographic and burgeoning middle class segment is giving rise to greater market opportunities, which has led to a dramatic increase in demand from companies wanting to invest in brand building to

develop a competitive edge. At the same time, government related entities are increasingly focused on enhancing their reputation in international and local markets, which is crucial to attracting foreign investment while enhancing public confidence in these critical institutions.” As noted recently by the Holmes Report for the Best New Agencies for EMEA 2015, “Djembe is one of the best of the new generation of African PR firms, combining high-level strategic consultancy with a rigorous understanding of local market conditions across the continent. “This powerful combination has propelled Djembe to impressive growth that has seen the consultancysignificantly increase from few employees to now have presence across Africa, Europe, the Middle East and North America, and expand from one to seven offices in key African and international markets. For the second

half of 2015, the consultancy will greatly increase its local presence in key African, Middle East, North American and UK markets, he said. Africa’s growth metrics are leading the world. According to the Global Economic Outlook 2015 SSA will continue to experience steady growth at around five percent annually between 2020 and 2025. McKinsey forecasts consumer spending to grow from USD 860 billion in 2008 to USD 1.4 trillion by 2020, while according to Standard Bank, 14 million new households will join the middle class segment by 2030. In the communications sector the Middle East and Africa saw the biggest surge in advertising spend in 2014, up by 14.6 per cent against 3.2 per cent worldwide, which points to the immense opportunities in Africa right now according to a Nielsen study.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nigeria deficient in professional hair stylists DAVID AUDU

atures Gentle Touch Hair Institute has restated its commitment to empower Nigerian youths with skills needed to establish a career in the beauty industry. Public Relations Manager, Recare Limited, manufacturers of Natures Gentle Touch range of hair care products, Mrs. Toyin Adepegba, said that the company’s decision was informed by the shortage of professional hair stylists in the country. She explained that the Natures Gentle Touch Hair Institute was established to bridge the gap in hair care services in the country by empowering young people with the knowledge and skills required to practice professional hair care ser-

vices. “Our students are taken through an eight-month intensive training in cosmetology and trichology before practicing. They are also exposed to modern styling equipment and experts, who take them through theoretical and practical classes ‘’, she said. Established in 2006, the Natures Gentle Touch Hair Institute has birthed several professional hair stylists, whom have gone ahead to start off lucrative careers in the beauty industry. Students graduating from the institute also have huge potentials to make impact in various other fields beyond the salon. They are employable in the media industry as beauty care experts or product development executives in cosmetic companies.

U.S. internet ad revenue rises

dvertisers spent a recordbreaking $13.3 billion on U.S. Internet advertisements in the first quarter of the year, according to the Interactive Advertising Bureau. Online ad revenue rose 16 percent compared to the same period last year, when the category recorded an $11.4 billion haul, the IAB reported “Digital screens are an indisputable part of consumers’ lives,” said Randall Rothenberg, president and CEO of the IAB, in a press release. “This doubledigit growth speaks to the incredible popularity of interactive

screens.” The New Media Group of PwC produces the report for the IAB, polling companies that sell advertising on the Internet. Revenues have increased sharply since data collection began in 1996. The rise in year-over-year figures is the direct result of brand and media agencies’ increasing commitment to digital marketing,” said David Silverman, a partner at PwC US, in the press release. “It is clear that interactive has become an imperative in reaching key demographics with tailored messaging and creative.”

Airtel campaign for improved focus, strategy

L-R: Manager, Prepaid Acquisition, Airtel Nigeria, Nelba AKinyemi; Zonal Business Manager, Abuja Lynda Umeh; Proprietor, Christ Foundation Orphanage, Mr. Kute Gabriel; Proprietress, Christ Foundation Orphanage, Mrs. Kute Gabriel; Regional marketing Manager, North Central, Airtel Nigeria, Ifeoma Azogu and Human Resources Manager, Oladipo Babalola, during the presentation of computers and accessories to Christ Foundation Orphanage in Kuje, Abuja, recently.

K-Peace wins Etisalat-sponsored Nigerian Idol Season 5 DAVID AUDU

unle Ogunrombi better known as K-Peace has won the 5th season of the EtisalatSponsored Nigeria Idol and smiled home with a brand new SUV car, cash prize of N7.5 million and a recording deal with Universal Music Company at the grand finale show held in Lagos recently. His emergence as the winner ended months of heart-wrenching performances that started with thousands of contestants at the auditions that took place in Benin, Abuja, Port-Harcourt, Ibadan and Lagos, to knock-out rounds and down to the Top-2 contestants who won the hearts of the judges and

viewers nationwide. The highlight of the finale was the performance of the NigerianFrench singer, songwriter and recording artist, Asa who lit up the stage and hearts of guests with hit songs from her chart topping new album, Bird of Stone. Speaking at the event, Chief Marketing Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, Francesco Angelone, said that the company recognised Nigerian Idol as a veritable platform to identify, nurture and celebrate young talented Nigerians. Angelone said:“Etisalat is living up to its reputation as a lifestyle brand that is passionate about the youth and Nigerian Idol is one of our platforms to celebrate the Nige-

rian youths. This season, all the contestants have been amazing in their individual right and K-Peace particularly has been outstanding from the audition stage and we are glad that the voting public has crowned a winner deserving of his crown.’’ K-Peace, who was unable to control his happiness, shed tears of joy and declared that he was overwhelmed and shocked at being crowned the winner of the competition. “I am overwhelmed getting to this stage today because I faced tougher and amazing talents, especially Dolu. I thank the sponsors of this competition for giving me the opportunity to pursue my dream.”, he said.

harti Airtel Africa, a leading telecommunications service provider with operations in 20 countries across Asia and Africa, has today announced Yaya Touré as the new African face for its upcoming continental campaign. Airtel’s partnership with the Ivory Coast’s captain and Manchester City’s midfield will launch the brand’s “It’s Now” campaign which seeks to nurture and grow talent in Africa through various consumer touchpoints such as sports, lifestyle and music while providing customers with access to connectivity and technological solutions that will enable them explore opportunities around them. Airtel Africa Chief Executive Officer, Christian de Faria, said that the campaign reiterates the company’s commitment to support the youth in Africa as well as drive economic growth by unlocking people’s potential. “We are excited to be signing the pact with Mr. Touré who is respected in Africa and beyond. As the first player to win African Player of the Year four consecutive times, Touré is an inspiration to everyone working

to achieve their potential and striving to be their best every day,” said Mr. de Faria. Speaking on his partnership with Airtel Africa, Mr. Touré said, “Throughout my career I have been fortunate to have a great deal of success on the field. However, I know that the strongest performances come only when you commit 100 percent to the task at hand and display the strength and mettle to give it your all. “It’s Now” is a campaign that is close to my heart as it calls on Africans to embrace the opportunities around them to better their lives. I am glad to be working with Airtel, with its wide reach within Africa, in order to inspire many people.” The partnership will see Mr. Touré support Airtel’s corporate social responsibility particularly in youth empowerment for development. Having entered the African market in 2010, Airtel Africa has steadily increased its customer base in Africa to reach over 70 million people. Airtel currently has Africa’s widest 3G footprint across 17 countries, coupled with the widest mobile commerce footprint in Africa with Airtel Money.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Casers Group acquires Mawal marketing network DAVID AUDU

asers Group and Mawal Group have announced a definitive merger agreement under which Casers Group acquires Mawal, amarketing communications network in French West and Central Africa. Enyi Odigbo, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Casers Group, explained that the acquisition demonstrated his company’s commitment to deploy resources that will deliver value to existing and prospective local and multinational clients. Odigbo said the strategic combination eliminated the need for businesses that require a regional marketing communications solution to

seek partners on a country by country basis, which often results in disparate service levels, in terms of quality and resource deployment”. “This merger has developed out of the successful DDB led partnership of Casers Group, Mawal Group and Innova DDB in partnering MTN, the largest mobile telecoms operator in the Middle East and Africa. DDB currently manages MTN in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Cameroun, Cote d’Ivoire, Republic of Benin, Guinea Conakry, Guinea Bissau and Congo Brazzaville. Joel Nettey, MD of INNOVA DDB and President of the Advertising Association of Ghana said “The opportunity to partner on MTN for the past 4 years throughout the region provided the learning curve needed to dras-

tically reduce the teething problems associated with deals of this nature”. Reacting to this development, Bayo Adekanbi, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria said that the acquisition would facilitate Casers’ quest to deliver solutions to the increasing market opportunities, in West and Central Africa. The Founder and Executive Chairperson of Mawal Group, Mrs. Mareme Malong will retire but will continue to serve as adviser to the board. She said that she and her team members “are excited at this development because it is the coming together of like-minded Africans to form a more formidable entity that will outperform our individual operations.

L-R: President, African Union of Architect, Arch. Tokunbo Omisore; MD, Nigerite Ltd, Mr. Frank Lebis; Chairman, Prince Adekunle Adeniji-Adele; Regional Director, Africa Etex, Mr. Mark Vanoverbeke and Chief Finance Officer, Nigerite Ltd, Alhaji Gbolahan Tijani, during the launch of Kalsi Building Board Solution in Lagos, yesterday.

Konga unveils new e-payment solution DAVID AUDU

igeria’s Online Mall, Konga.com, has announced the development of an online payment solution called KongaPay, packaged to foster trust and safety for online shoppers in the country KongaPay is a payment solution that allows users to perform one-click payments on the Konga marketplace. Chief Executive Officer, Sim Shagaya, said: “KongaPay is a partnership with Nigeria’s banks. We strongly believe that together, we could change the face of online shopping in Nigeria by removing the uncertainties customers associate with pre-paying for goods and services they are yet to receive.” Speaking about the benefits of the product to online shoppers on Konga.com, Sim Shagaya said, “Payments made with KongaPay are held in escrow until the transaction is satisfactorily completed. With KongaPay, shoppers on Konga’s marketplace can rest assured

knowing that their transactions are fully protected. “They are in full control of their money, and will get instant refunds for cancelled or returned orders with just an easy click. The use of KongaPay eliminates the need to enter sensitive personal information such as card details or Internet banking passwords”. The product was unveiled at a KongaPay Demo event in Lagos. Shagaya disclosed that after live demonstrations of the easy and secure use of KongaPay on the center-stage, industry executives gathered around various shopping stations where they too signed up and used KongaPay to for their purchases. KongaPay is now available on a “limited first-look release basis” with national launch scheduled for Q3 2015. So far, Konga has completed integrations with Access Bank, Diamond Bank, Ecobank, FCMB, First Bank, GTB, Heritage Bank, UBA and Zenith Bank. It is expected that by its national launch, most

Nigerian banks will have completed integration in order to achieve widespread access to KongaPay.

Youths to dominate Africa’s $1.3tn consumer spending by 2020 DAVID AUDU

frican youths characterized by exuberance and technology savvy will dominate consumer spending by 2020 says Chief Executive Officer of a programmatic advertising agency, Cape Town’s Atmosphere Orange, Craig Utermark. “Half of all Africans are under the age of 20, with those aged 16-34 accounts for 65 per cent of the entire continent’s trillion-dollar consumer spending’. He said with this being the fastest growing continents with strong smart-phone use, advertisers are obsessing on how best to reach them. “They read all the time, but not newspapers or magazines. “But they are all zero’ed in, whenever and wherever they can, surfing the social freeways on their phones. It is there that advertising brand managers are targeting them among the noise of millions of gigabytes of information. And it’s possible, with the latest technology, programmatic marketing allows brand managers to reach 95 per cent of the Sub Saharan African market with 34 global exchanges, giving us access to 70,000 websites that are relevant to the South African market.” Another ad monitoring agency, Frukt, says that 65 per cent of consumer spending is attributable to young people, not necessarily with buying but as influencers too of their parent’s spending decisions.

“Unlike their somewhat spoilt Western counterparts, Africa’s Millennial generation is not pessimistic about its future (even with rapidly rising unemployment rates), in fact they are infectiously optimistic about what lies ahead. “With the youth population in Africa set to rise faster than any other continent over the next decade, this ‘A Generation’ is one to watch as the next wave of youth pioneers tap into the continent’s rich cultural heritage and make their collective voice, and spending power, known.” Frukt says Africa has “arguably the strongest and most passionate musical culture on the planet,” and that is one way to get the attention of the A Generation. They say that by 2020 youth will dominate Africa’s $1.3tn consumer spending. Utermark concurs, saying these generations of youth are incredibly sophisticated. The South African Social Media Landscape 2015 report recently revealed that just in this country Twitter has 6.6 million users and visual platforms YouTube and Instagram have seen a user increase of 53 per cent and 65 per cent respectively over the past year. “So our young people, like those across the world want ads with great visuals, ideally set to a great musical beat, something they can share on social media and be seen as cool by their friends.”

Demo Africa 2015: Flippy Campus emerges first start-ups DAVID AUDU

lippy Campus team has been named the most outstanding start-up in the just concluded Demo Africa pre-screening event in Accra. The first tech-entrepreneur group that would be present at the Demo Africa stage in September. Out of the 10 teams that pitched at the event, Flippy Campus was the most convincing to the jury on their ability to link innovation, creativity and scalability. DEMO Africa’s pre-screening activities and feedback sessions are expected to raise the standards of the technology products that are produced by start-ups across Africa to ensure that the confidence of various investors is secured. Demo Africa is one of the flagship initiatives of the Lions@Africa and

aims to connect African startups to the global ecosystem. It is the place where the most innovative companies from Africa get a platform to launch their products and announce to Africa and the world what they have developed with the hope of attracting investors. Nigeria hosted this event in 2014. The event which brought together start-ups from across West Africa, had judges Todd Holcombe, senior lecturer at Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology, which has one of the leading acceleration programmes in Africa; Martin Obuya, DEMO Africa’s Accra Event Director, Erick Osiakwan, AfrISPA and Juliet Amoah of British Council assessed the various solutions from the startups and provided feedback to the teams. Flippy is a product that improves campus experience by keeping stu-

dents up to date on current campus happenings. By following the Flippy Campus channels, students are able to follow campus events from their halls and social groups including reminders for these events. Speaking on their success, David Sleek, founder, Flippy Campus expressed optimism at what the future holds for the group. “I am elated at this win and I look forward to learning more from other entrepreneurs and mentors at the DEMO Africa event in Lagos in September.” While congratulating the winner, Obuya expressed enthusiasm at the ability of entrepreneurs to create wealth in Africa using innovations. “What took place today is a clear demonstration of the great ability of entrepreneurs across Africa to create wealth from world class solutions which solve our own problems first, then the rest of the world”, he added.

Insight

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Telecoms: Subscribers, operators

igerian telecommunications industry will still undergo another round of revolution for the country to start feeling the full impact of emerging technology sweeping across the globe. The reason is that after the first 10 years of what is termed the sporadic growth that made the telecoms market in Nigeria to be regarded as the fastest growing in Africa, minor issues that inhibit the growth of a true success story are still far from being resolved. National Mirror investigation revealed that the industry is still grappling with such irritants as unsolicited text messages and calls, drop calls, conscientious regulation, unfair competition and lack of protection for telecoms infrastructure among others. It was gathered that these issues, as well as others are responsible for the challenges that have made quality services far from been experienced by the subscribers. The implication is that subscribers will have to wait for another round of revolution to experience the best of telecoms services in the country, just like the one that brought the telecoms services to Nigeria initially. Before 2000, the year telecoms revolution was said to have begun in Nigeria telephone was the exclusive right of a privileged few. It was the year, when the now moribund state owned and run Nigeria Telecommunications Limited (NITEL) held sway in the industry, and decided who got which telephone lines. Reflecting on the days before the collapse of NITEL, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Teledom Group Limited, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, described the introduction of Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) as one of the most unimaginable in the history of telephony in the country. Ekuwem told the National Mirror that then it took almost a year, between applying for a telephone from NITEL and getting the handset delivered to either in one’s home or office, adding that only the very rich and well connected Nigerians ever got to have telephone lines within a short period. He added that in the days when NITEL held the industry to ransom, and later introduced the phone booth, the story still did not change as long queues were the norm at most phone booths due to poor network connection. According to him, when the GSM took root in Nigeria, the story changed and Nigerians irrespective of their social status were able to own a telephone lines without delay. He said that although it was expensive initially to buy a GSM SIM pack, which cost about N50,000, however, market forces have within the last few years brought it to as low as N150 with free packs taking over soonest. There was excitement in the industry because Nigerians had never had it so real as been able to make calls. Subscribers were glued to their mobile phones, spending long hours of talk on networks with limited capacity, while the large

The Nigeria telecommunications industry has been classified as the fastest growing in Africa, but ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN reports that daunting challenges have continued to truncate its growth, thereby denying consumers quality services.

Telecoms mast

SUBSCRIBERS WILL HAVE TO WAIT FOR ANOTHER ROUND OF REVOLUTION TO EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF TELECOMS SERVICES IN THE COUNTRY, JUST LIKE THE ONE THAT BROUGHT THE TELECOMS SERVICES TO

NIGERIA INITIALLY

population created a market that made it easy for the operators to sell their SIM cards; the result was congestion across the network. But the new development in the telecoms sector came with its own bundle of challenges that is taking the industry regulator, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), as well as the operators too long to address. In the early days of the GSM revolution, the former Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, Engr. Ernest Ndukwe, had advocated that one of the fundamental priorities for the regulator was to seek to meet the requirements of the consumer for modern, good quality, widely available and affordable services. However, nine years into the era of

the GSM, operators began to have issues with the quality of services and other related telecoms challenges, resulting into the NCC organising a public hearing to address the problems. The inquiry was one of the requirements of the rule making process of the NCC, where the industry and stakeholders gather and consult for the purpose of issuing regulations and guidelines in accordance with Section 71 of the NCC Act, and enforcement of the said Act. The inquiry, which was held in 2009, and the first in the industry was meant to administer and monitor closely a Performance Management Programme to ensure that operating companies maintained minimum performance levels jointly agreed between them, consumers

representatives and the NCC, and, consistent with world class standards. The hearing was also as a result of media reports in 2008 chronicling public outcries over the state of the telecoms industry. Ndukwe who is now into private practice, said then that the extremely high market demands resulted in the networks being in a constant mode of expansion and barely able to keep up with the demands. “Congestion is further worsened because since Nigeria is a huge market still in its emerging phases, and extremely competitive with each of the operators investing heavily to continue to build out their networks, the operators are likewise motivated to quickly earn high returns on their investments by introducing new services and promotions to secure the most subscribers and call minutes or revenue on their network,” he said. President of the Association Licensed Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Engr. Lanre Ajayi, told our correspondent that subscribers desire much from the operators, and that one of such expectation is that whenever they make calls, the calls should go through, but unfortunately that is not the present situation in the sector. According to him, there are several complaints from subscribers ranging from drop calls to poor network connection, and sometimes a complete network failure, adding however, that bulk of the blame do not necessarily fall on the shoulders of the mobile operators. He stated that one big problem in the industry which needs to be urgently addressed is the vandalism of telecoms infrastructure, saying that any damage done to a base station has a sporadic effect on other operators since it takes more than just one base station for calls to be connected successfully. Ajayi said that telecoms operators are losing millions of naira to the activities of the vandals, acts that not only affect the quality of services, but send lots of funds meant for other investments down the drain. Statistics from industry experts revealed that it costs about N24,750,000 to install a single base station together with its tower, special antennas and two generators to power the station. Regrettably, a source in MTN revealed that 180 cuts were experienced on its fibre optic cable that transmits voice and data across the country whenever local, states and the federal government engaged in road construction works. Last year a major damage was done to MTN fibre optic cable in Akute, Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State by a Chinese company that was working on the 35kms Ogun State suburb road that stretches from Sango through Ijoko, Ag-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, June 18, 2015 -

Insight

groan even in the face of profits prove the quality of services. Chairman of the Association Licensed Telecommunications Operators (ALTON), Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, lamented that the Critical Infrastructure Bill is still not passed by the National Assembly even in the face of rising vandalism. According to Adebayo, the harsh operating environment replete with multiple taxations, inadequate power, thefts and dearth of supporting infrastructure, among other issues are making quality services seem to be out of reach of the subscribers. He stated that due to the rising incidences of security issues, operators have now had to go through a learning curve to build and develop robust security networks, stressing that these investments are in addition to efforts operators have taken to address the daily challenges earlier highlighted. Although government did not respond swiftly as expected by the stakeholders, it however setup the Universal Access A vandalised mast in Maiduguri Provision Fund (USPF), to facilitate the achievement of the national policy goals for universal access and universal service to information and communication HE NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE TELECOMS technologies (ICTs) in rural, un-served and under-served areas in Nigeria. SECTOR CAME WITH ITS OWN BUNDLE OF Following the establishment of the CHALLENGES THAT IS TAKING THE INDUSTRY USPF was the establishment of the Infrastructure Companies by the NCC, which REGULATOR IGERIAN OMMUNICATIONS although was received with mixed feelings by a cross section of stakeholders OMMISSION AS WELL AS THE has seemed to have settled down for effecOPERATORS TOO LONG TO ADDRESS tive take-off. Already, two companies, MainOne Cable and IHS, have been licensed to provide telecoms infrastructure for Lagos area and the North Central respectively. Both are major players in the provision of infrastructure in the nation’s telecom industry. The Licensing of Infracos is a major precursor to the soon-to-evolve broadband revolution in the country. Yet, stakeholders think that government has not done enough to protect the existing infrastructure in the country, and that the operating environment is still bedevilled with teething problems that seem to have no solution. Despite the challenges, it did not stop the NCC from lashing the three leading telecoms operators, MTN Nigeria, Globacom Limited and Airtel Nigeria Limited with several sanctions. Ex-Minister of Communications Technology, Engr Ernest Ndukwe Mrs Omobolaji Johnson One of such sanctions was the imposition of N647.5million fines for failbado, Oke-Aro, Lambe, Akute and some ment, appealed to members of the public ing to provide service quality on their to report any suspicious activity around networks. The fines imposed on them in parts of Ojodu in Lagos State. The Statistics also showed that on the installations, which it said were Critical February 24, 2014 showed that Airtel and average the operator suffers a monthly 70 National Infrastructure (CNI). MTN were fined N185m each, while GloIn its December 2013 financial report, bacom was fined N277.5m. fibre optic cable cuts due to the activities the South African company revealed of construction works across Nigeria. The operators have also gotten knocks According to MTN Nigeria it has lost that it recorded N793.614billion as rev- from subscribers over what they denetwork availability in over 1,000 base enue, representing 5.31% increase from scribed as outright invasion of their pristations cumulatively across the country N753.578b in 2012. But due to the challeng- vacy, and that is the unsolicited text mesafter damage to its fibre infrastructure es of the operating environment, it in- sages and calls, most of which are from adding that this has disrupted services in curred a total of N260.572bn as operating the Value Added Services (VAS) providthe South East, particularly in Onitsha, expenditure, out of which 12% or N31.2bn ers, who ride on the infrastructure of the Port Harcourt, Kano, Abuja, Kaduna and represented the cost of diesel. The huge mobile networks to transmit messages of amount would have built 5,200 90-square- their clients to their targets. Ibadan recently. Recently, the company, in a press state- metres base stations that will help imThe ATCON president, Ajayi, de-

(NCC),

scribed them as a big menace saying, “I noticed the increase in the sms spam, and the voice spam is becoming a big menace,” adding, “it is something that needs to be dealt with.” Although Ajayi said he is not sure how to overcome the menace of these unsolicited texts and calls, he however suggested, “if all the stakeholders put heads together we will be able to address it. I learnt that some operators have put some spam filters in place, but even with that we still get the spam but there must be a way out, and I think it requires further engagement.” In an apparent move to curb the growing menace of unsolicited texts the NCC visited two radio stations, Metro FM 103.5 and UNILAG FM 103.1 and used the media to inform subscribers on what it has done so far to stem the tide of unsolicited text messages. Director, Public Affairs of the NCC, Tony Ojobo, who was on air at both station at different times said the Commission had issued several directives to mobile network operators to minimise the rate of unsolicited text messages sent to subscribers through their networks, stressing that the NCC has begun to fine them for that. The NCC is also said to be warming up to come hard on mobile operators who are integrating VAS providers into their systems, thereby aiding and abating illegality. Some Nigerians residing abroad describe the present state of telecoms services as very unsatisfactory, saying the trend globally is quality services for every customers. Robert Omonoseh who lives in Minnesota, in the United States of America in an interview online told National Mirror that drop calls are alien to him, saying the service providers in the USA have only one objective of satisfying their customers. He said the service providers are aware of the importance of the right of the consumers, and their interest is on how to make the consumers happy and not to create lines of complain. Craig Agbonyeme who relocated home from Malaysia described the current trend of quality service as annoying, saying beside the fact that the operators took chances to reap off the subscribers, the unsolicited text messages from the operators have become unbearable. “If for any reason your phone did not work due to technical issues you get compensated. Here in the UK, you have what we term Contract Pay as you go. They have different advantage and disadvantages,” Jolly Iguodala, who relocated to London long before the telecoms revolution began in Nigeria, said. Head, Lagos office of the Consumer Protection Council, Tam Tamunokonbia, said the operators are obviously aware that the consumers are the key factors if service delivery must be efficiently done. He said the relevant bodies concerned with the issues that subscribers have over the years complained about are being addressed by the agencies concerned.

Cocktail

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Oddities

Coast Guard rescues leatherback turtle from lobster trap

.S. Coast Guard members stationed in New York shared video of a large leatherback turtle being rescued from a lobster trap. The Coast Guard’s Montauk station said the fishing boat Captain Ron summoned help Monday for a leatherback turtle caught in a lobster trap in Fort Pond Bay and a crew soon arrived to cut the line.

“The turtle would have most likely died if the crew did not respond to assist,” Coast Guard crew member Matthew Foster said in a statement. “The line was around the turtle’s neck and fin and was getting tighter. We are glad we were able to execute the mission safely and release the trapped turtle quickly,” he said.

Woman lost on mobility scooter gets police escort

he Washington State Patrol said a woman who became lost while riding her mobility scooter was escorted home by a trooper at 6 mph. The patrol said Trooper Dave Hintz responded June 9 to a report of an elderly woman riding her scooter in circles on a stretch of Highway 546 in Lyden and he asked the woman to move to the side of the road. Hintz said the woman told him she had been riding in circles because she was lost

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

about 4 miles from home. “I just treated her the way I would’ve wanted somebody to treat my mom,” Hintz told KOMO-TV. Hintz drove behind the woman at 6 mph to escort her home. He said the journey took more than an hour. Amused witnesses posted photos and videos of the escort on social media. “Our motto with the state patrol is service with humility,” Hintz said. “It took a lot of patience and humility to take care of this lady.”

‘Just Divorced’ woman celebrates by decorating truck A

Georgia woman is celebrating her long-awaited divorce by driving around in a pickup truck emblazoned with the words, “Just Divorced.” Leona Metcalf of Lawrenceville said her husband of nearly a decade walked out on her five years ago, but her divorce wasn’t finalized until late last week. Melcalf affixed cans to her Ford F-150 pickup truck and wrote “Just Divorced” on the windows and tailgate of the vehicle in a reference to the custom of decorating the cars of the newly married. “I’m an independent woman,” Metcalf told WAGA-TV. “To me, it’s a celebration because it should have been over 5 years ago.” “You see people putting ‘Just Married’ on their cars to celebrate

their wedding so I decided, hey, why not put ‘Just Divorced’ on my truck to celebrate my divorce?” she told The Huffington Post. Metcalf said her truck

has earned her a lot of honks of support from other motorists. “I had absolutely no idea it would receive this much positivity and publicity,” she said. “I simply

thought it was a cute idea. But everywhere I go people tell me they think my positive spirit is awesome and shout things like ‘what a cool idea’ and ‘you go girl!’”

Georgia woman thrilled to be divorced, standing near the decorated truck.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Transcorp Ughelli Power targets 850mw daily by year end TOLA AKINMUTIMI

ranscorp Ughelli Power Limited (TUPL), the power generation and investment subsidiary of Nigerian’s conglomerate Transcorp Plc, has projected to increase its generated power daily from the 610 megawatts (mw) at the end of 2014 to 850mw by end of this year. The company’s 2014 Annual Report and Accounts were also approved by shareholders at its 2nd Annual General Meeting (AGM). The report detailed the progress made by the nation’s largest gas-powered generating company during the first full calendar year of operations.

In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Adeoye Fadeyibi, outlined TUPL’s “short term, post-acquisition operational strategy as one based largely around the recovery of installed capacity.” In the year under review, the company increased generation capacity from 342 megawatts (MW) at December 2013 to 610MW at the end of 2014, representing 78 per cent increase year-over-year and a 300 per cent increase from takeover. Transcorp Plc Group President/CEO Emmanuel N. Nnorom expressed delight on the company’s performance He said: “Our team is excited and united. Ade has done a fantastic job of assess-

ing existing generating assets at Ughelli and determining a course of action for total recovery and as a result, we are on track to achieve 850MW per day by year-end 2015, which represents a major contribution to the country’s total energy output. During the TUPL Board meeting last Tuesday, Transcorp Plc Board Chairman, Mr. Tony Elumelu, predicted long-term mega-growth, saying “we are determined to produce a quarter of all power generated in Nigeria and we are clearly on track to achieve this, thanks to the cohesiveness of the leadership team and the hard work of the staff, driven by the TUPL CEO.” According to the Board,

2015 will see the execution of expansion plans through key acquisitions, as well as a Greenfield project set to commence operations in 2018. The financial advisory firm Renaissance Capital (RenCap), had projected this year that Transcorp Plc would more than quintuple its profitability by 2017 in part because of the outlook for TUPL. RenCap stated: “We believe the government’s determination to make centralised electricity supply a reliable source of power for the economy, at half the price of the currently widely used diesel generators, is sufficient reason to see a bright future for the assets”.

Equities dip 0.37% on bearish market trend

JOHNSON OKANLAWON

igerian equities market dipped further yesterday in bearish transactions, with the twin market performance that measures the NSE ASI and market capitalisation dropping by 0.37 per cent. The decline in value was due to profit taking by investors. The All-Share Index dropped 124.25 basis points or 0.37 per cent to close at 33,478.42 as against 33,602.67 recorded the previous day

while the market capitalisation of equities depreciated by N43 billion or 0.37 per cent to close at N11.427 trillion from N11.470 trillion as market sentiment returned to red trajectory. This was just as a turnover of 204.9 million shares worth N7.4 billion in 3,696 deals was recorded in the day’s trading. The banking sub-sector of the financial services sector was the most active when measured by turnover volume; with 106.5 million shares worth N1.7 billion ex-

changed by investors in 1,255 deals. Volume in the sub-sector was largely driven by activities in ETI Plc and Zenith Bank Plc.shares. Other financial services sub-sector was boosted by activities in the shares of FBNH Plc with a turnover of 34.7 million shares valued at N262.3 million in 665 deals. 22 gainers were recorded at the close of trading session companred with 24 with dipped stock values Berger Paints Nigeria Plc led the gainers’ table with a gain of 10.20 per cent

to close at N11.24 per share while Pharm Deko Nigeria Plc followed with a gain of 4.93 per cent to close at N2.34 and Eterna Oil Plc added 4.74 per cent to close at N2.65 per share. Guinness Nigeria Plc led the price losers’ table, dropping 5.28 per cent each to close at N174.80 per share. Beta Glas Nigeria Plc followed with 4.99 per cent to close at N37.32 per share while May & Baker Plc followed with a loss of 4.91 per cent to close at N1.55 per share.

Dollar falls, Wall Street up in volatile post-Fed trading

he dollar extended losses against the euro and yen, while U.S. stocks gained in volatile afternoon trading, after the Federal Reserve indicated there would be a rate hike by end of the year. The U.S. central bank said the economy was likely strong enough to support an interest rate increase by the end of the year, though it also lowered its expectations for 2015 economic growth because of a weak start to the year. The Fed has said that it would first raise rates when it deems the economy strong enough to handle it. Analysts are torn on whether the first hike in about 10 years will occur in September or December. Investors also continued to watch the uncertain situation in Greece, fretting about the potential fallout if the

country was unable to avoid a default on IMF loans, which could result in it leaving the euro or the European Union. “I haven’t figured out whether the rate hike will be in September or December, but I think September is more likely, and I would prefer to get it out of the way,” said Wayne Kaufman, chief market analyst at Phoenix Financial Services in New York. “People have been expecting a rate hike to come, and the market is ready for that. At the same time, we’re also still worried about Greece.” The MSCI International ACWI Price Index .MIWD00000PUS rose 0.2 percent on the day. The Dow Jones industrial average .DJI rose 30.26 points, or 0.17 percent, to 17,934.74, the S&P 500 .SPX gained 3 points, or 0.14 percent, to 2,099.29 and the Nasdaq Composite . IXIC

added 8.63 points, or 0.17 percent, to 5,064.19. The benchmark 10year U.S. Treasury note US10YT=RR fell 3/32 in price, pushing the yield up to 2.3272 percent. The U.S. dollar index .DXY, which measures the greenback against a basket of currencies, fell 0.5 percent. Euro zone finance minister are due to meet on Thursday, but there was talk of plans being put in place for another emergency summit over Greece at the weekend. Jeroen Dijsselbloem, the president of Eurogroup finance ministers, said there was a “very small” chance that a deal would be reached at the meeting. The pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 index FTEU3 closed down 0.5 percent. The euro EUR= rose 0.6 percent to $1.1314. In the commodity space, U.S. crude futures CLc1 fell

0.5 percent to $59.69, while Brent crude LCOc1 fell 0.1 percent to $63.66 per barrel. Oil trading was volatile after government data showed a surprise gasoline inventory build last week, even as production eased. Rate (%) Inflation

8.2

MPR

Crude oil price

$58.96

Source: NSE

Inter-Bank Rate Naira

US Dollar

N197.00 Market indicators All-Share Index 33,478.42 points Market capitalisation 11.43trn

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

BERGER

10.20

11.24

1.04

10.20

PHARMDEKO

2.23

2.34

0.11

4.93

ETERNA

2.53

2.65

0.12

4.74

CHAMPION

6.72

7.00

0.28

4.17

HONYFLOUR

3.85

4.00

0.15

3.90

DANGSUGAR

6.69

6.90

0.21

3.14

CONOIL

40.95

41.98

1.03

2.52

STANBIC

27.00

27.50

0.50

1.85

CILEASING

0.56

0.57

0.01

1.79

SKYEBANK

2.50

2.54

0.04

1.60

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

GUINNESS

184.55

CLOSING 174.80

-9.75

-5.28

BETAGLAS

39.28

37.32

-1.96

-4.99

MAYBAKER

1.63

1.55

-0.08

-4.91

AIICO

0.95

0.91

-0.04

-4.21

ACADEMY

0.95

0.91

-0.04

-4.21

COSTAIN

0.96

0.92

-0.04

-4.17

THOMASWY

0.73

0.70

-0.03

-4.11

WEMABANK

0.99

0.96

-0.03

-3.03

DIAMONDBNK

4.36

4.23

-0.13

-2.98

OANDO

16.95

16.49

-0.46

-2.71

FGN Bonds

Offer

Bid

Description

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

13.05 16-AUG-2016

1.17

99.03

13.94

99.18

13.79

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.86

101.79

13.94

101.94

13.85

16.00 29-JUN-2019

4.03

105.71

14.09

106.01

14.00

16.39 27-JAN-2022

6.61

110.03

14.00

110.33

13.94

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.74

101.16

13.95

101.46

13.89

10.00 23-JUL-2030

15.10 68.00

15.55

68.30

15.48

Closing Market Prices of June 17, 2015

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

Exchange

Rates (N)

10-Sep-15

12.00

12.34

WAUA

270

USD

197

17-Dec-15

12.61

13.46

EURO

214

02-Jun-16

12.53

14.24

CFA

0.32

YEN

1.64

Tenor

Rate (%)

SWISS FRANC

202

O/N

15.1000

POUNDS STERLING

293

15.9685

16.8676

SDR

273

17.6790

NIBOR

The Fixings of June 17, 2015

Capital Market

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Stock exchange daily equities summary Equities as at June 17, 2015 1st Tier Securities

1st Tier Securities Sector

Company name

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Sector

Company name

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Jostling for 2019 now unpatriotic –Dogara TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

peaker of the House of Representatives, Honourable Yakubu Dogara, has described politicians already plotting to take power in 2019 as unpatriotic.

The speaker made his observation yesterday on the occasion of a courtesy call on him by Presidential Primaries Convention Committee. “We have to rally round with all the tools we can get to make this government a success. We cannot

Aviation unions kick against planned merger OLUSEGUN KOIKI

hree unions in Nigeria’s aviation industry are severely kicking against planned merger of agencies in the sector and the Ministry of Aviation with the Ministry of Transport. The unions insisted that merging the agencies and the ministry by the new administration was not the solution to problems facing the sector. The unions, National Union of Air Transport Employees, NUATE; National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, NAAPE; and Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, ATSSSAN, through their leaders, Comrades Olayinka Abioye, Aba Ocheme in a joint open-letter said merging the ministry with transport ministry would make

it weaker in performance. The petition recalled that the ministry was merged with the transport ministry during the regime of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, but this could not yield the desired result, which later led to its de-merging by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua. The petition insisted that the merging of the two ministries was as a result of illadvice from some “cabals” in the aviation sector and advised President Muhammadu Buhari to be mindful of the antics of the cabals. The unions explained that the problem of the sector emanated from the appointment of politicians as ministers in the sector, rather than a technocrat with aviation background. The unions said the ministry was self-sustaining through the agencies under it and need not to be merged with any other ministry or agencies.

Why we want Delta Tribunal relocated –Emerhor OBIORA IFOH ABUJA

overnorship candidate of All Progressives Congress, APC, in Delta State, Olorogun O’terga Emerhor, yesterday explained that he requested for relocation of the state’s governorship and State Assembly Tribunal to Abuja because his supporters were unduly being harassed, adding that the way things are, he feared there would not be justice at the end of the day. Governorship Election Tribunals for Taraba, Akwa Ibom, Rivers and the entire North East zone were relocated to Abuja for reasons bordering on insecurity of the tribunal

members. Emerhor, who also feared that the tribunal verdict might be compromised, insisted that he had already instructed his lawyers to file necessary applications for the relocation. He said: “The governorship election in Delta State was fraudulent as it was in Akwa Ibom State, Cross River State and others, so we went to the tribunal because we believe we have a point. “We have applied for relocation to Abuja because we believe we need to be in a neutral place. Where the tribunal is sitting in Delta State and you can imagine the pressure we are facing in putting out our case.

fail our people, and that is why I fault those who are already having their eyes on 2019,” he said. The speaker, who quoted an American writer, Thomas Stearns Eliot, warned that the pre-occupation of lawmakers and party members should be about the wellbeing of the entire country, instead of a few selfish politicians.

He restated his resolve to collaborate with President Muhammadu Buhari’s government to implement pro-people agenda of his party, the All Progressives Congress, APC. The Speaker also pledged to maintain peace with former Minority Leader of the House, Honourable Femi Gbajabiami-

la and his party. Dogara, who defeated Gbajabiamila on Tuesday, June 9, to emerge speaker, was not the choice of the leadership of his party. Earlier, Dr. Alex Ideh, who led the defunct Presidential Primaries Convention Committee to visit the speaker, urged him to make peace with Gbajabiamila and APC

leadership. “Please, reach out to Honourable Gbajabiamila and the party in the true spirit of humility and sportsmanship,” the group advised. The group said a strong cooperation between the National Assembly and the Presidency would hasten development in the country.

L-R: Former Chairman, Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU), Federal Medical Centre, Ebute Metta, Mr. Ebenezer Akande; Chairman, Medical Health Workers Union, Mr.Julius Achonwa; Chairman, JOHESU, Mr. Shehu Sulaiman; Chairman, National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, Mrs. Blessing Israel and Secretary of JOHESU, Mr. Chijioke Ejiofor, during a protest over high medical bills and poor equipment by joint workers of the Federal Medical Centre, Ebute-Metta, Lagos, yesterday.

PDP’s statement on Buhari product of poor thinking –APC OLAJIDE OMOJOLOMOJU

ll Progressives Congress, APC, has described the statement credited to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Media Watchdog, asking President Muhammadu Buhari to resign because of comments over his age, as a product of poor thinking and deliberate mischief. APC, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Lai Mohammed, in Lagos yesterday, said if the authors of the statement understood simple English, taken the pains to engage in deep thinking and contextualised the comments, they would not have rushed to the press to ask the President to resign. It said: “What President Buhari was saying, which was lost on those who issued that jejune statement, is that only his love and passion for the country could have made him, at his age, to come out of retirement to seek the office

of president, over 30 years after he presided over the affairs of the country. “For 16 years, Nigerians gave the PDP benefit of the doubt to move the country forward, but instead, the party put Nigeria in reverse gear at a high speed, spinning it towards a doomsday that was only averted when Nigerians showed the PDP the red card. This is what necessitated President Buhari to continuously seek the country’s highest political office, so he can help put the country on a forward march again. “Nothing else matters, not for him the excitement of an office he previously held and the quest for personal accomplishment. If the country had been well-managed, President Buhari will not at 72 be criss-crossing the world seeking solution to Nigeria’s problems.” The statement added that within three weeks of his inauguration, President Buhari has succeeded in returning Nigeria to the comity of nations, to such

an extent that world leaders are now so eager to engage him on how to assist Nigeria in key areas, including security and the fight against corruption. Mohammed added: “Within three weeks of President Buhari’s inauguration, he had done what the PDP government could not do in six years: invigorate the fight against Boko Haram by rallying a regional and global front against the terror group. Today, the US has pledged to give $5 million for the fight against Boko Haram, in addition to other material support. This is apart from the support that has been pledged by the G-7 for Nigeria’s efforts to quell the insurgency. “Thanks to President Buhari’s shuttle diplomacy, the Multi-National Joint Task Force, MNJTF, that the PDP government could not bring together for all of six years is ready for deployment next month, while the president has ordered the release of $21 million to facilitate the

establishment of the headquarters of the force in N’Djamena, Chad. Mohammed averred that only anarchists and non-democrats will ask a president who has not spent one month in office to resign, saying that “it rankles when those making these calls are from the ranks of the party that failed to avail itself creditably in 16 years.’’ He added that APC has deliberately refused to join issues with the PDP, which he said has been issuing series of insipid press statements that clearly showed its unpreparedness to provide a robust opposition to the APCled Federal Government. He said: “For the umpteenth time, we say that the PDP and its satellite bodies must realise that in order to be relevant, credible and make the necessary impact, they must pick on real issues and articulate them intelligently, rather than latching on to trite matters. This very amateurish display won’t get them anywhere.”

Young & Next Generation

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Hellofood feeds under-privileged children in Lagos Stories by LEONARD OKACHIE

orried by the prevalence of hunger in Nigeria, leading online food delivery service, Hellofood has challenged its community and has held campaigns to help raise awareness on eradication of hunger in the society. The group has for the past couple of weeks been going around areas in Lagos that have a high level of poor helpless children where people are not assured of their next meal and given them food In commemoration of the World Hunger Day 2015, the group recently visited Ebute- Metta in Lagos where they fed the helpless children in the area. Hellofood’s Head of Business Development, Oluwaseyi Adepoju called for serious actions to re-establish the dignity of the Nigerian particularly, children. He

stressed that when people are not well fed, the economy cannot develop. He said: “The nation is the way it is because the people are not well fed. Poverty is looming in the land and the people will soon begin to steal to survive. So what do you call that?” The organisation recognises that more than 800 million people in the world are currently suffering from hunger and poverty. Sub-Saharan Africa is the region with the highest prevalence of hunger. Hellofood.com Africa, is a mobile platform where people can order food from restaurants in their cities. It was founded by Africa Internet Holding (AIH) with an investment from telecommunications company MTN in 2012. It operates in over 45 countries around the world and 11 countries across Africa, attracting hundreds of independent restaurants and international chains for customers to order from.

Nobel Carpets donates rugs to orphanage

s part of initiatives geared towards giving back to the society, Lucky Fibres Plc, makers of Nobel Carpets and Rugs, has donated sets of specially designed children’s rugs and carpets to the Hearts of Gold Children Hospice in Lagos. General Manager, Lucky Fibres, Mr. Jitesh Pamnani who was present during the donation, said “We are happy to be here today to donate these things to these kids. We thought about how we can beautify the lives of these children and decided to design colourful carpets that had the English alphabets and also numbers on them which would go a long way in beautifying their environment and also aid their development”. Commenting on the quality of the carpets, Mr. Pamnani stated that Nobel Carpets and rugs have been in Nigeria for about 25 years manufacturing top quality durable carpets and rugs here in

Nigeria. He said, “We produce made in Nigeria carpets and rugs that are of the highest international quality. We can even customize and design carpets to the specifications of the customer. The quality of the rugs and carpets donated today is a reflection of our capabilities” Speaking at the presentation of the donated items, founder, Hearts of Gold Children Hospice, Mrs. Laja Adedoyin stated that the home has had a great relationship with the company for quite a long time. She said, “What they have been doing for us is indeed commendable. Over the years, they have been very supportive. We urge other companies to come forward to aid what we are doing here. These rugs and carpets donated will go a long way in enhancing the lives of these children because they are bright and colourful and which aids in learning”.

L-R: General Manager, Lucky Fibres, Mr. Jitesh Pamnani; Founder, Hearts of Gold Children Hospice, Mrs. Laja Adedoyin; Head, Business Development, BD Consult, Ms Tayo Azeez, with Children of Hearts of Gold Hospice during donation of specially designed children’s rugs and carpets to Hospice in Surulere, Lagos.

Hellofood feeds children at Ebute Meta, Lagos, on World Hunger Day 2015.

Science for Kids

‘Kids Say the Darndest Things’ debuts on Father’s Day

uch anticipated Nigerian adaptation of popular American children’s television comedy series ‘Kids Say the Darndest Things’ will hit TV screens with an exciting Father’s Day Special on Sunday June 21, 2015. The show which is powered by Cliqlite from Etisalat Nigeria will air on AIT Channel 21 and DSTV Channel 253. The premise of ‘Kids Say the Darndest Things’ is that children often respond to life’s questions in the most unexpectedly smart and amusing ways. The programme features kids between the ages of 2 and 10 as they respond to these posers thrown at them by the host of the show, Tony Okungbowa. Head, Sponsorship and Events, Etisalat Nigeria, Modupe Thani said, “As an innovative company, Etisalat Nigeria recognises the importance of education, learning and the wholesome development of children which is why we support education at various levels. “The Etisalat payoff line is ‘Now you’re talking’ and this show will offer Nigerian children the opportunity to communicate better and talk better, express themselves, interact with, and learn from their peers. Helping to bring Kids Say the Darndest Things to Nigeria through Cliqlite is yet another way to practice what we preach.” Speaking on the show, its Executive

Producer, Chichi Nwoko enthused that Nigerians are in for a fantastic show that would delight both kids and adults, stressing that Nigerians would be amazed at how knowledgeable Nigerian kids are, particularly, about Nigeria. Nwoko added, “We are excited that a show of this magnitude, which celebrates our children and focuses on family is now in Nigeria. Our key objective is to deliver a top-quality family entertainment television show.” Parents of the children who auditioned for the show in December commended the initiative and said they looked forward to an entertaining show in the standard of the American version. One of the parents, Mrs. Lade Babalola said, “I have seen several episodes of the American version of the program and it is a very hilarious children’s program and I like it. “I think it is a good programme for children to share their views, show the intelligence and intellectual sides of Nigerian children as well as enable them communicates with each other. It is good that it has come to Nigeria.” “Kids Say the Darndest Things” currently enjoys wide viewership in many countries including, Australia, Singapore, India and Italy. The show will run every Sunday starting from this Saturday.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Media

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Nigeria’s first women radio station launched ...Islamic TV, radio channels debut

Stories : LEONARD OKACHIE

ational Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has granted licence to a St. Ives Communication, to operate Nigeria’s first radio station for women, in the country. The radio station will provide a platform to engage on issues of local, national and international importance for Nigerian women. According to the director of the media firm, ‘Toun Okewale Sonaiya, as the glory of the celestial nymphs burnishes the luster of merely human women, so will St. Ives Communication’s first radio station for women, improve the lot of the Nigerian woman. As the glory of the celestial nymphs burnishes the luster of merely human women, so will St. Ives Communication’s first radio station for women, improve the lot of the Nigerian woman, according to ‘Toun Okewale Sonaiya, director of the media firm. St. Ives Communication was recently granted license to operate Nigeria’s first radio station for women by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). Sonaiya in a statement said the radio station’s programming is geared towards the advancement and social wealth of Nigerian women and their families by providing access to a truly independent and commercially run radio station for the female gender. This, She stressed , will be achieved through quality, informative and entertaining programming that will cut across business, politics, sports, news and entertainment from the woman’s perspective. Though focused on women, the radio station will also cater for the interests of the male gender, family and everything important to Nigerian women. Sonaiya emphasised that the programming style will be interactive and engaging, to foster a sense of connection among Nigerian women and their families across all ages, social, cultural, religious and ethnic backgrounds. She said: “We will operate 24 hours of ongoing conversations and less music addressing everyday issues for Nigerian women and their families. The radio station will be Nigeria’s first reliable and trusted source for up to date information on the interests and issues for women and their families.” In a related development, an Islamic organisation, the Jama’atu Izalatul Bidah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), has launched its radio and television satellite stations for the propagation of Islam. According to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN , the Chairman of the organ-

isation, Sheikh Bala Lau, told guests at the inauguration in Abuja that the two channels would be known as Manara Radio and Television stations. He said that the stations were coming at a time when the country was facing serious security challenge. Lau said that the launching of the two stations would give enlightenment to the Muslim Ummah so that they could become self-reliant, especially in areas of information and communication. He said that the launching of the two stations would also create job opportunities and empower women, especially the youths. “We are thinking of generating funds through various Jumaát Mosques using Manara stations to assist the less privileged in the society. “We want to change the entire Muslim Ummah’s lives through Manara, in area of preaching to them to do the right thing and always avoid anything capable of breaching the peace,” he said. Lau said the organisation had been very instrumental in the area of philanthropy, as it had sent relief materials to the North eastern states affected by insurgency. He recalled that long before now, the organisation had a television satellite called Sunnah satellite television, transmitting from outside the country “by our brothers and sisters who had the license”. He said that both the Muslims and non-Muslims would benefit from Manara stations to enable them understand the teachings of Islam better. He called on the Muslim Ummah to do the right thing and abstain from “what Allah hates in order to deepen their religious belief as well as believe in Almighty Allah”. Responding, Gov. Abdulazeez Yari of Zamfara said the launching of Manara Radio and Television stations would create an opportunity for the Muslim Ummah to communicate more with one another. Yari, who was the Guest Speaker at the ceremony, said that the stations would also create an enabling environment for the Muslims to interact more and freely with non-Muslims within and outside the country. He said that information and communication had become very important to the Muslim world today, especially now that everything had gone digital. “We are happy that Manara Radio and Television stations and many others have come on board. “The Muslims should put in their best in the area of communication and information because it is the bedrock of whatever an individual, groups or govern-

Female students in a campus radio studio

ment is doing today,” he said. Also, the Chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Abubakar Sa’ad, the Sultan of Sokoto, represented by Alhaji Ahmed Oga, the Andoma of Doma, urged the organisation to employ quality staff for quality service delivery. “I have no doubt in my mind that the stations will compete favourably with their foreign counterparts like VOA, BBC and CNN, among others. “I can assure the Muslims and Nigerians that another innovation in the area

of radio communication and television has come on board,” he said. The Sultan, however, urged the Muslim Ummah to give the stations the necessary cooperation in order to achieve the aims and objectives for setting them up. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that while the radio station would be received on SW 15.440 frequency in morning hours and SW 177.65 frequency in the evening, the television station would be broadcast on 11595 Channel.

BBC World provides service on mobile phone in Nigeria

etermined to give its listeners better and efficient service, BBC World Service is collaborating with ZenoRadio - a leading service that enables radio to be heard on the phone - to give on-demand access to BBC World Service’s audio streams in English (option 1) and Hausa (option 2). According to a press statement by BBC management, mobile phone users in Nigeria can tune in to the Service by dialing the local number, 01 4405 222. Phone users in the country can dial 01 4405 222 and choose the language they prefer from the audio menu to hear the programme. Calls are to be charged at a normal rate, according to network packages and tariffs. The statement said the users can listen to the broadcasts from any mobile network in Nigeria. It said “English-language radio is streamed live around the clock. Programmes in Hausa are streamed live at 06.30, 15.00 and 20.30 Nigeria Time

and then repeated until the next programme is broadcast”. BBC Africa Editor, Solomon Mugera said the 01 4405 222 service provides open and easy access to the BBC’s radio programming that until now has only been available in Nigeria via shortwave, online and satellite. “Thanks to this development, anybody with a mobile phone in Nigeria can listen to BBC World Service in English or Hausa at any time,” he said. There are 132 million active mobile devices in Nigeria. By using ZenoRadio’s technology, the BBC dramatically improves its accessibility to Nigerian audiences, with every mobile phone user getting the chance to tune in to BBC radio. Chief Executive Officer of ZenoRadio, Morris Berger, in his remark said listeners in Nigeria can now stay connected to their favourite BBC content from any phone. “As this is our first foray into Africa, we are proud to work with the BBC on this,” Berger said.

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

BET announces first ever Viewer’s Choice award category

CEO, BET Networks, Deborah Lee

lack Entertainment Television (BET) Awards’ season is underway, and for the first time ever, BET has introduced a new fan-voted award category celebrating rising stars from across the channel’s international footprint: the Viewer’s Choice Best NEW International Artist. (BET) is an American basic cable and satellite television channel that is owned by the BET Networks division of Viacom. Comprising three hot new artistes from Africa and three new artistes from the UK, the category will see Cassper Nyovest (South Africa), Eddy Kenzo

(Uganda), Mz Vee (Ghana) go up against George The Poet (UK), MIC Lowry (UK) and Novelist (UK). BET previously revealed that talented actors, comedic geniuses and on-screen co-stars Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross will be unleashing the good times as hosts of this year’s “BET Awards” 2015, taking place on Sunday 28 June at the Nokia Theatre, live in Los Angeles, CA. The BET Awards recognizes artists, entertainers, and athletes across 20 categories with the “BET Awards” 2015 nominations. The nominations are selected by BET’s Voting Academy, which

is comprised of fans and an esteemed group of entertainment professionals in the fields of television, film, music, social media, digital marketing, sports journalism, public relations, and the creative arts. Fans can vote for their favourite new artist at www.BET.com/ViewersChoiceIntl and on Instagram @BET_Africa using the hashtag #iPick. Voting opened on June 15, 2015 at 5PM and will close on June 27, 2015 at 01:00AM CAT. The BET Awards 2015 will premiere across Africa on BET (DSTV channel 129) and BET2 (DSTV channel 135) on June 30, 2015 at 8:10PM.

Media Abroad

Twitter CEO out as growth pressure mounts

witter chief executive Dick Costolo is surrendering his post, handing the reins back to co-founder Jack Dorsey as the popular service struggles to boost its ranks of users. Costolo will step down on July 1, and Dorsey will take back the Twitter chief job in an interim capacity, the company announced on Thursday. Dorsey previously held the job for about a year and a half, leaving the post in 2008. Costolo came on board in 2010. “The future belongs to Twitter thanks in large part to Dick Costolo’s dedication and vision,” Dorsey said. Dorsey said he will stay at the Twitter helm while the board finds someone to replace Costolo long-term. Costolo will remain on the Twitter board of directors, and Dorsey will continue to be chief of mobile-centered financial transactions company Square that he co-founded in 2009. The shake-up comes amid rumors that Costolo was under tremendous pressure from investors to prove his worth by ramping ranks of Twitter users and revenues brought in by the globally popular one-to-many messaging service. “Unfortunately this news isn’t surprising,” Forrester analyst Nate Elliott said. “The bottom line is that Twitter isn’t very good right now at serving either its users or its marketers.” Costolo guided the San Franciscobased firm through its initial public offering, but growth has been disappointing and the company has yet to show a profit. Twitter shares jumped more than three percent to $37.16 in after-market trading that followed release of word Costolo is out as chief. Dorsey said during a conference call that he will split his time between Twitter and Square, relying on management teams he knows and trusts. He expressed faith in the strategy Costolo has in place at Twit-

ter and products in the company’s pipeline. “I don’t foresee any changes in strategy or direction,” Dorsey said. “The opportunity is absolutely massive. The intention is to certainly bring it to everyone around the world.” The plan to do that includes making Twitter easy and rewarding for users, according to Dorsey. “If we build a product people love and value, advertisers and users will follow,” Dorsey said. Costolo said he began discussing departure with the board late last year and opted to step down now because remaining during a search for a successor would have been too distracting to the company. Criteria had yet to be established regarding what Twitter is looking for in a new chief. “We are looking for someone who really uses and loves the product in every single way,” Dorsey said. Source: AFP

Costolo

Apple News service to hire journalists

pple is hiring a team of journalists to run its Apple News service, part of a broader push by the company to personalise the content it selects and delivers to users of its devices.

The Apple editorial team will liaise with publishers, which include the Financial Times, New York Times, The Guardian and The Economist, which have signed up to provide content to the news service. A job ad posted for Apple News, which replaces Apple’s Newsstand and will compete with Facebook’s new Instant Articles service, said successful candidates would “identify and deliver the best in breaking national, global, and local news”. It is seeking candidates with more than five years of “newsroom experience” able to “recognise orig-

inal, compelling stories unlikely to be identified by algorithms”. Apple declined to comment beyond the job ad. One publisher that has had negotiations with Apple over the news service said the hiring of journalists was “jaw-dropping” and “a real surprise”. Ken Doctor, an analyst with Newsonomics, pointed to other examples of technology companies hiring journalists, such as Flipboard and Yahoo. “Apple hasn’t done it so it’s a departure but it’s not a surprising departure,” he said. “To do curated distribution you either use algorithms, like Google News, or you use people.” The launch of the Apple service comes weeks after Facebook unveiled its own deal with a group of

publishers to publish some of their content directly through the social network rather than simply hosting it on their own sites. Apple’s news recruitment drive is the latest example of a steady uptick in traffic from Fleet Street to Silicon Valley. In the last few years, social networks Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn have hired reporters and editors from the likes of News Corp and NBC to help broker relationships between media groups and their distribution platforms. Within the past six months, Snapchat has hired reporters from CNN and tech site The Verge. Apple itself has brought on journalists in the past to help select apps and games to be featured on the homepage of its App Store. Source: ft.com.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

B Shoppers’ S

Guide

ooks sellers at the popular Kakawa market on Broad Street and its environs has complain of low patronage in recent times. The traders told BSD that except during resumption of new academic session when shoppers flood the market to buy books for their children, patronage is always low. Yes, it is true, we only make our sales between August and September when parents need to buy the recommended textbooks for their children, explained, a trader. Mr. Oladipupo Hameed told BSD that from the time of resumption through to the next academic session, we only sell in trickles. “And since this is the only trade we are known for, we still come to the market regularly hoping to make some sales.” When asked what are the causes of high cost of books, Oladipupo said

Broad Street Diary

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Book sellers lament low Patronage the increase in the price of books during that season was not their fault but that the publishers determine rate at which a book should be sold. “The publishers always claim that cost of production is high and at the end they increase prices before it gets to us.” Oladipupo who had been in the trade for some years now, however, urged government to create a conducive business environment in the country particularly electricity which is important to all aspect of the economy. Another trader, Mrs. Mariam Olotu told BSD that books sellers have started stocking their shops with new books because as from next month sales will improve as some parents do buy recommended textbooks immediately the children close for the session. “We are preparing for the season because this time comes once in a year and we make sure we do

… prepare for next academic session

our best to have all our customers will ask for.” On the claim by shoppers that book sellers hike prices at that time of the year, Olotu said it was not true, “the amount we get the books determines the amount we sell it to our customers.”

A parent, Madam Ruth Falonpe told BSD at the market that, books are not like food or cloth that is why they only come to buy whenever it was recommended by the school. She however said, she didn’t only patronise the

book sellers during school resumption, but anytime her children school asked them to buy books. Falonpe said parents are always at the receiving end during at that period of the year. “They book (sellers)

should realise that we are all from this country not that we came from somewhere where they print money, they should consider our pocket too,” she said.

-Saidat Alausa

A book seller at CMS

Why street trading culture thrives on Broad Street D o you know that street traders make more money selling on the streets? Broad Street Diary found out how they get their goods and make sales.

Anyone coming into Broad Street which comprises of Balogun market, Martins, Tinubu, Ebute Ero and Idumota among others, will definitely see these traders displaying

Street traders on Broard Street

their wares on the floor with some that selling clothes sometimes hang it for people to see. BSD gathered that not all their goods are original as some sell imita-

tions, while some get their wares from shops that are doing clearance sales. But the truth is that they make more sales because people get to them before they go into the

PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

market and their prices are lower compared to the goods inside the market. One of the traders, Mrs. Hannah Adejumo who spoke with BSD said they always make their sales in the morning and sometimes in the evening when workers have closed for the day. She told BSD that some of the wares they sold are from the shops in Balogun or Idumota, “We usually get them from some the shops that do clearance sales.” She further revealed that they are not limited to a particular product, “we sell any good that is available, ranging from weave-on, hair accessories, clothes, shoes, kitchen wares among others. “But I prefer clothes and weave-on because I have realised that they sells faster than other wares.” On whether she would get a shop in the future, Adejumo said if she gets a shop that is affordable she might consider getting one because selling under the sun and rain is not the best. A shopper, Miss Mon-

surat Oladele told BSD that she just got a bead necklace at the Leventis bus-stop and if she wants to buy same from shop owners she would between N1,500 or more. “Anytime I want to resume for a new session I always come here to shop and you will be surprised that you get nice tops from these people.” She said instead of buying second hand clothes she can get new ones at cheap rate from street traders at Balogun market. But she however, said shoppers like her are usually not lucky because they do buy inferior wares sometimes, “so you need to be smart when you come here.” A worker, Mrs. Victoria Onigbale told BSD that she sometimes patronise street traders because she realised that they sometimes have good wares. “I do buy my shoes from them and so far I have been lucky because the ones I got from them are of good quality.

-Saidat Alausa

Broad Street Diary

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Marina car park in Lagos.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

Lagos Island car parks, an untapped revenue asset I

n this day of dwindling revenue from the federation account, one expect both the state governments and the local government in the country to put their thinking cap on, so as to generate enough resources that would enable them run their government without complaining. There are several ways by which government particularly local governments can generate revenue through many of the underestimated assets. In some countries of the world, governments generate billions from fines on traffic offences, parking on roads setbacks and so on. However, because of the reliance on oil money, the different cadres of government in Nigeria, has jettisoned major areas of revenue generation. It was as a result of this, that the potentials of the various car parks in Lagos Island as revenue assets particularly to the local government is examined. When Broad Street visited some of the car parks along Marina axis, the potentials of revenue that could be generated from it was awesome. As early as 8.30 am, a young man who wore a red tight fitting T-Shirt and put on a blue face cap concealing much of his forehead and a Jeans trouser was seen busy with the job of collecting money from potential car owners who struggled to get a spaces to park their cars, but unfortunately, the money being collected by this young man may end up in private pockets, rather than the coffer of government. Ademola who refuses to give his other names was seen busy sorting out car keys from a bowl in front of him. While standing anxiously waiting to get away from the afternoon sun beating down was a young lady of about 30 year, with a baby strapped around her waist. Both of them were obviously eager to get done with the business. Somewhere inside a Hyundai Jeep were two young men honking for the cars that have blocked them in front to give way. But Ademola was unperturbed, as he checked for the keys of the woman with a

WE ARE NOT TOUTS, AND AS YO YOU CAN SEE SOME OF THESE PARKS ALSO B BELONG TO CORPORATE ORGANISATIONS.

THE

LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMES HE HERE TO REGULATE.

ALL WE DO IS TO B BRING

ORDERLINESS INTO IT child. As soon as he gets done with them, he moved quickly to attend to other cars streaming in, honking and seeking space to park. At the background continued the persistent buzzing of giant generators that supply light to the skyscrapers along Marina. There, you find the rows of skyscrapers belonging to the big corporate companies such as UBA, Union Bank, First Bank, Wema Bank, among others, and below were endless human traffic that swaddled through. There you find street traders, hawkers, cars and the red buses of Lagos Transport Authority. Back to Marina car park where Ademola and other henchmen presided, it has always a busy day from Monday to Friday, one of them volunteered. The Broad Street and Marina axis parking lots attract fees as much between N500 and N1000 per space, but in some other places, fees are charge depending on the duration the car is parked. According to one of the parking attendant, a man of about 55 years who gave his name as Ajayi and who said he has been there for the past 10 years, said operating a parking space on the Island is a money spinning venture. Giving a rough estimate, he disclosed that between four to five thousand cars pass through the park on daily basis. Giving further insight, he said, the park makes more money not through those who park and go their offices, but those who come to shop. “Just calculate the money that will be realized when hundreds park and within hours they leave, and as they are struggling to leave, others are

looking for space to park”. But when asked if he must be very rich since he has been on it for years, he said “it is not that easy. We work here by commission depending on how much we make. But you must also understand that the owners of the park have a lot of interest to settle. Obviously, the parking space on the Broad Street and Marina axis is a racket controlled by touts. But a ‘Big Man’ within the area disagrees. “We are not touts, and as you can see some of these parks also belong to corporate organisations. The local government comes here to regulate. All we do is to bring orderliness into it. We pay to them’. Asked how much and how often, he said, “it is a private agreement, but we pay heavily. Do you think government will just leave individuals to be collecting thousands of naira from people and they will not put an eye on it? It is not possible. A lot of people think we are touts, but that is not true. It is government land and they know what we are doing,” he said. This also brings to the fore why Lagos State Government has been reluctant to build a multi level parking plaza on the Marina Broad Street area on the Island. Analysts believe that availability of parking spaces could have a very positive impact on rental values as it encourages visitors to come to a particular building to transact business, for leisure and relaxation purposes, among others. At the neighbourhood Level, where parking spaces are available, it fosters the smooth flow of traffic and eases potential “bottle-

necks” that could be particularly troublesome during emergencies, when, for instance a fire engine, the Nigeria Police Rapid Response Squad vehicle is trying to foil a crime or a Hospital Ambulance conveying a Patient needs to move rapidly from Point ‘A’ to Point ‘B’. Multi – Level Car Parks seem to be the solution of choice for Central Lagos, in meeting this vital requirement of any good urban transportation system. A Quantity Surveyor and chief executive officer of Dwab Costprudence Company, a firm of Quantity Surveyors, Project Managers & Development Consultants, Mr. Olayemi Shonubi, in a newspaper report few months ago stressed the importance of a multi-floor parking infrastructure at Marina. Shonubi explains that “with the current redevelopment of Lagos Island Central Business District, CBD, which is the centre of commerce in Lagos and in fact for the entire West Coast of Africa, it is expected that there would be a corresponding increase in human as well as vehicular traffic to this part of Lagos. ‘’ Furthermore the various steps taken by the State Government to develop the Marina as a leisure/relaxation spot cannot, but generate unending traffic,” Shonubi said. He says given the increase in vehicular traffic, it is expected that there would be a corresponding increase in parking spaces as well as facilities as there are not enough approved parking lots in Lagos Island. “Thus a multi-storey or multi-floor parking development is most likely to satisfy the yawning gap that currently exists. This is due to the fact that most Nigerians would rather go to their business places in the comfort of their vehicles with the attendant security and safety, than use the inadequate and sometimes unsafe public transport system, which they have hitherto been subjected to due to lack of adequate parking space.” -David Audu

-David Audu

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South South

Thursday, June 18, 2015

JTF raids illegal refineries in Delta Theophilus Onojeghen WARRI

n continuation of its clampdown on activities of oil thieves in Niger Delta region, the Joint Task Force, codenamed ‘Operation Pulo Shield’ yesterday raided several locations used for refining stolen crude oil in five communities in Delta State. The illegal refineries were located in Odimodi, Yokri, Forcados, Otegele and Opumami beneath Inland in Burutu and Warri South-West local government areas. At a press briefing after the operation, JTF Coordinator, Joint Media Campaign Centre, Lieutenant Colonel Isa Ado, said the force cannot win the fight against oil thieves all alone, calling on people of the state to key into their campaign in area of information to defeat them. Speaking at the premises of Sector One of the Joint Task Force in Warri, Ado explained that the troops within the period of operation raided 32 illegal refineries, while several equipment belonging the criminals were also discovered. Giving a breakdown of

the operation, he said, “32 illegal oil refineries and 86 drums containing various products were discovered. 27 dugout pits and 25 surface tanks filled with stolen crude oil were also discovered and destroyed.” He added that, “other illegal bunkering equipment discovered during the operation included 29 cooking ovens and ten pumping machines. The sites and products were destroyed in line with JTF operation in the Niger Delta. JTF spokesperson stated further that the operation was a continuous one based on intelligent information aimed at eradicating illegal oil bunkering activities in the region in line with Major General Emmanuel Atewe’s zero tolerance campaign against oil theft and illegal bunkering.” Our correspondent who witnessed the operation reports that some oil thieves on sighting the officers flee into the high sea, living their clothes and food including other personal belongings behind. At one of the sites in Otegele, this reporter trekked over five kilometres to arrive at the illegal oil refineries spanning over four kilometres with several tanks used in the illicit business.

Army deserters, two others arrested over robbery Osahon Julius YENAGOA

etectives from Bayelsa State Police Command yesterday arrested a 30-year-old Army deserter, Nanabo Perezito, and two others for their alleged involvement in various armed robbery incidents and illegal possession of military uniforms. Police authorities also confirmed the arrest of two other members of the suspected armed robbery gang identified as ThankGod Victor, 22, and Hanson Victor, 20. Spokesman of Bayelsa State Police Command, Butswat Asimni, said the suspects were arrested at Opolo community in Yenagoa Local Government Area after intelligence gathering on series of armed robbery attacks within and outside the state. According to Asmin, the

suspects were arrested on June 6 this year during a special operation by special detectives attached to Ekeki division of the police, “they were arrested and items recovered included 7 pairs of military uniforms, one AK49 rifle, 39 rounds of live ammunition, one locally made pistol, two drivers’ licences and a locally cut to size pistol.”

Theophilus Onojeghen WARRI

ggrieved staff of oil servicing company, Bredero Pipelines, yesterday almost grounded operations at the company’s premises following what they described as “undue harassment and intimidation” and unabated delay in payment of salaries, which led to the death of two of their colleagues. The protesters com-

Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa (left) and State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Marshall Umukoro, during a visit to the governor in Asaba, yesterday.

ECOWAS commission tasked on arms proliferation

Richard Ndoma CALABAR

hairman of Nigeria’s Presidential Committee on Small Arms and Light Weapons, PRESCOM, Ambassador Emmanuel Imohe, on Wednesday charged ECOWAS commission to intensify efforts in combating proliferation of small arms and light weapons within the West African region. Imohe made the charge while delivering a speech

at the annual meeting of National Commissions on Small Arms of Economic Community of West African States in Calabar. Imohe, who was represented by Head of Programmes of the commission, Dickson Orji, described the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons being circulated in West Africa as a hydra-headed monster that must be resolved as quickly as possible. Earlier, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security of the commission,

Mrs. Salamatu Hussaini, said the porosity of African nations’ borders allow easy accessibility of dangerous military style weapons to non-state actors. She said the case of Sahel region and Northern Nigeria in particular, revealed the deficiency in enforcement capacity of security forces, a situation the commissioner said was being exploited by criminals to kill, maim and damage properties in our communities. “This trend must be stopped by limiting state

arms acquisition and continuous advocacy with international community in order to effectively control arms transfer around the world. Cross River State Deputy Governor, Professor Evara Esu, who represented Governor Ben Ayade, thanked ECOWAS commission for convening the annual meeting in Calabar and charged delegates from different ECOWAS countries to deliberate on issues that would take African countries to greater heights

Rivers’ll remain PDP state —Wike Dennis Naku

PORT HARCOURT

ivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has said that despite claims by the All Progressives Congress, APC, that they own the election, Rivers will remain a Peoples

Democratic Party, PDP, state. He said Rivers people voted overwhelmingly for the PDP in the last general elections in the state. Speaking during an audience he granted Delta State House of Assembly on Wednesday, Wike said no

Protesting staff disrupt company’s operation over intimidation prising contractors and staff lamented that they were going through untold hardship in the hands of their employer, who they also accused of withholding their entitlements. Speaking to newsmen during the protest at Sedco Road yard of Bredero Pipelines in Uvwie council area, Delta State, the protesters accused Managing Director of the company,

Shamin Khaan, of using men of the Nigeria Police attached to the company to harass and intimidate workers. The placards-carrying protesters gave names of dead colleagues as Michael Akpojivi and Saro. They added that their lives could have been saved if the company paid them salaries to attend to their illness.

amount of intimidation will change the mandate the people of Rivers State gave him on April 11. According to him, “while the APC, who were defeated at the poll, were busy embarking on negative propaganda because they had excess to money, we were with the people at the grassroots selling our programmes to them. “That was why they voted for us massively. We are not worried by their claim that they have the tribunal. “All we know is that Rivers State will always remain a PDP state. The people are with us,” the governor said. He stated that his administration will always maintain separation of powers, saying that never again will Rivers State House of Assembly sit in Government House.

He said he would promote independence of the legislature by ensuring that funds of the Assembly come as a first line charge. “You don’t need to pocket the legislature before you think you are safe in government. What is needed is cooperation with the Assembly in the interest of good governance,” Wike said. He said he would continue to further regional cooperation in the South South for sustainable development. Earlier, Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Monday Ikpuya Okemeni, commended Governor Wike for returning Rivers State to PDP, saying the governor proved the APC wrong with his political artistry.

North

Thursday, June 18, 2015

4 FRSC personnel in custody over alleged graft HENRY IYORKASE MAKURDI

Benue State commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, has apprehended four of its staff for allegedly receiving gratification from motorists while on duty and may risk losing their jobs if found guilty and face prosecution accordingly. State commander of the corps, Mr. Habu Dauda, who made the disclosure yesterday to National Mirror in Makurdi, the state capital, maintained that the officers, who he declined to give their identity, would be booted out as soon as investigation into the matter was concluded and they are found guilty of the offence. He restated determination of the command to ensure that bad eggs among its staff were flushed out, insisting that anyone caught contravening the rules and regulations would be severely

dealt with. Similarly, the FRSC boss revealed that some of his men (names withheld) connive with licensing officials to issue driving licence to heavy duty vehicles, especially tankers so that they do not have to go through the cumbersome processes involved in issuance of such licences. According to him, “we shall do everything within the power of the law to ensure that those who constitute a cog in the wheel of progress are summarily dismissed and subsequently handed over to security operatives for prosecution.” He implore members of the public with useful information regarding misconduct of FRSC officers to feel free and come forward with such, assuring that such information would be treated in strict confidentiality and that after the scrutiny if a claim is true, punitive measures would be accorded to the offender.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Solders kill 2 women in Plateau JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

wo women have allegedly been shot dead in the Heipang axıs of Barki Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State by soldiers of the Special Task Force, STF, on Jos crisis, code-named, ‘Operation Save Haven.’ Our correspondent gathered that there was accusation in the past of military involvement in killings in the area, as the community protested against the mounting of a military checkpoint around the area. Investigation revealed that last night, there was an attack on the community, which led to the discovery of a military iden-

tity card in villages in the area, and this led to a peaceful protest by mainly women and youths. The protesters were shouting: “We do not want military checkpoints in our area;” and “no to military checkpoints,” among others. Confirming the incident to our correspondent in Jos yesterday on phone, chairman of Barkin Ladi Local Government Council, Emmanuel Loman, said the military shot dead two women who were protesting the incessant attacks and killings in their communities. According to him, there was a disagreement between the protesting women and the soldiers, who were mounting checkpoint in the area.

As the women moved into their shops across the road, a soldier from the STF met them and shot two of them to death at close range. He also added that a middle-aged man, who was also beaten to stupor by the same soldier, is receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in the area. But in a swift reaction, spokesman of STF, Captain Ikediche Iweha, told National Mirror that no woman was shot dead by any soldier in the area. According to him, there was a directive from their headquarters on the need to review checkpoints in the area. According to him, when the STF personnel arrived the area to

review the checkpoint as well as mount them, some groups, made up mainly of women and youths mobilised and went about destroying the checkpoint being put together by the STF personnel. He added that in the process, there was a gunshot, which hit two people in the crowd. “I am not aware of any death; nobody died in the confusion, except two women that were hit in the crowd, sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital for treatment,” he said. He appealed to members of the public not to take the law into their hands, but to show understanding to enable the task force serve them better.

Resident doctors’ strike: AKTH bans admission of patients ABDULGAFAR OLADIMEJI KANO

ndustrial strike embarked on by resident doctors in teaching hospitals across the country has caused more hardship for sick persons in Kano, as the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, AKTH, has shut its doors to persons seeking medical attention. Management of the hospital said it was compelled to stop admitting sick persons, thus leaving many sick people stranded, while those on admission have been hurriedly discharged. National Mirror, which visited the hospital yesterday to assess the situation, observed that the hospital that usually enjoys huge human traffic has turned almost a ghost yard. The wards were almost empty, with only few patients on admission and a handful of others who had scheduled appointments with consultants that were being attended to. Kano residents bemoaned the hardship imposed on them by the resident doctors’ strike. Many of them

alleged that they had to seek the services of private orthodox and unorthodox medical practitioners at exorbitant costs in contrast to the stipends they normally pay at the teaching hospitals for quality medical services. Those whose relatives were hurriedly discharged bemoaned the fate of their beloved ones, as many had to take them back home, lamenting that they do not have the financial means to seek health services in private health institutions. Others said they were referred to AKTH as the hospital of last resort, and had no reasons to proceed to another hospital in search of health services. Commenting on the development, the assistant director of information, of the teaching hospital, Alhaji Aminu Inuwa, said the strike forced the hospital to stop admitting sick persons. According to Inuwa, the decision to stop admitting sick persons was to enable medical consultants on duty have a sizeable number of patients they could attend to efficiently.

Kebbi State Governor Atiku Bagudu (right) welcoming leader of Food and Agriculture Organisation’s delegation, Mr. Neil Pullar, to his office in Birnin Kebbi, on Tuesday. PHOTO: NAN

Group commends Al-Makura’s health strides IGBAWASE UKUMBA LAFIA

ealth Reform Foundation of Nigeria, HERFON, yesterday commended efforts of Nasarawa State Governor, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, in improving the standard of primary healthcare delivery in the state. Chairman of the state chapter of HERFON, Suleiman Mohammad, gave the commendation dur-

ing a one-day workshop organised by the foundation for National Orientation Agency, NOA, staff and media practitioners in the state. He, however, lamented that the state had only achieved three out of the nine pillars that would make the primary healthcare agency effective and functional under one roof based on validation exercise conducted in 2013 by the agency in collaboration with HERFON.

HERFON head in the state said the change of government and transition in the state have paved way for the foundation to push ahead with the newly inaugurated legislative house and the executive to ensure all loose gaps were addressed appropriately. Mohammad said the workshop was timely and serves an avenue for coming together to rub minds on the issue with a view to providing last-

ing solutions and way forward for better partnership and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to achieve the set targets. Permanently Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mr. Naphtali Dachor, commended HERFON for the initiative, which, according to him, was aimed at effectively disseminating health information to facilitate easy access to health for all and sundry.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

North

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Bank of Industry disburses N16bn loans in Kano

Director-General of NEMA, Alhaji Sani Sidi (middle) and management staff of the University of Maiduguri, during his visit to the institution, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

N255m cars: Group wants EFCC to probe Oduah …other corrupt officials too JOEL AJAYI ABUJA

group, Voice of Arewa Youths, VAY, has warned that the promise by President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration to rid the nation of corruption would be a mirage if incidences of corruption were allowed to go unchecked. The group wants the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, the Independent

Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission, ICPC, and other related agencies to revisit the scandalous N255 million purchase of bullet proof automobiles by former Minister of Aviation now a Senator, Stella Oduah. In a statement signed by the group’s secretary, Engr. Jethro Annum, and made available to journalists yesterday in Abuja, the group also urged the agencies to investigate particularly persons

alleged to have corruptly enriched themselves and are occupying elective positions. “Any attempt to allow these elements go unpunished will rubbish the much-talked about anti-corruption stand of the president. Charity, they say, begins at home; therefore, the anti-corruption agencies must beam their searchlights on such persons. “At a time the nation is undergoing economic recession, there cannot be a better period to recover all stolen monies to in-

vest in critical sectors of the economy,” the statement noted. The group maintained that it would soon stage a protest in Abuja to ensure the probe was carried out to serve as deterrent to others, who may be tempted to engage in corrupt practices. It would be recalled that the House of Representatives Committee had indicted the former minister of wrongdoing on the matter, but appropriate agencies to prosecute offenders did not show commitment over the issue.

Reps to debate Ajaokuta steel, boundary dispute TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

ouse of Representatives will put up for discussion the lingering redundancy of Ajaokuta Steel Company and the oil-induced boundary dispute between Kogi, Anambra and Edo states, Speaker Yakubu Dogara said yesterday. The Speaker made the pledge during a courtesy call on him by Kogi State caucus of the House. “On the issue of Ajaokuta Steel, it appears there are some demons besetting the place. So, I think we need to pray and also show some leadership example in that direction. If we do this, we will achieve the dream of having Ajaokuta work,” he said. On boundary dispute

among Anambra, Edo and Kogi states, Dogara said as much as it was political, the House would include it and the Ajaokuta crisis in its agenda, and open debate on the matter. He, however, said top on the agenda of the 8th House would be agriculture, unemployment and poverty reduction, adding that to attend to the issues, the House would set specific dates to discuss them and even welcome motions on them. He also suggested that any member of Kogi caucus could raise motions on the items. Earlier, Chairman of Kogi caucus, Buba Jibrin, regretted that successive governments abandoned Ajaokuta complex. He said if the steel complex was running,

the power problem of the country would be substantially addressed in Benue, Kogi, Nassarawa and Niger states. He said a revamped Ajaokuta Steel would have made Nigeria an automobile-producing na-

tion and generated lots of jobs. The caucus also decried the boundary conflicts between Anambra, Edo and Kogi over the location of oil wells. He sought the intervention of the House to resolve the crisis.

ank of Industry, BoI, yesterday said it had disbursed over N16 billion loans to 68 enterprises in Kano State. Managing Director of the bank, Rasheed Olaoluwa, disclosed this at the commissioning of the bank’s new office in Kano. “I would like to add that BoI has, on its own, provided direct loans in excess of N16 billion to 68 enterprises in Kano State,’’ he said. Olaoluwa said as part of the bank’s efforts to transform the nation’s industrial sector by providing financial and business support services to enterprises, it accredited 122 Business Development Service Providers, BDSPs, nationwide in November 2014. “Of this number, 28 have national coverage, while 14 specifically cover the North-West geopolitical zone of the country. “The BDSPs are to assist entrepreneurs package bankable loan proposals that have a high probability of loan approval, as well

Taraba gov gets Assembly’s nod to appoint 25 aides JUSTIN TYOPUUSU JALINGO

araba State House of Assembly has approved the request of Governor Darius Ishaku to appoint 25 special advisers. The request, which was contained in a letter to the House by the governor, said it was in line with section 196 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, and was read on the floor of the House by the Clerk, Ismaila Tentason. In his contribution, member representing Ta-

B’Haram: UMTH blasts NEMA, Borno’s neglect of victims INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

hairman, Medical Advisory Committee of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, UMTH, Dr. Mohammed Tahir, yesterday carpeted the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, and Borno State government over their indifferent attitude and lack of care for injured Boko Haram victims.

Tahir said since 2009 to date, UMTH had been treating victims of Boko Haram, including security operatives, whereby N130 million was spent on drugs and related medical care, adding that all pleas for NEMA to assist the hospital fell on deaf ears. He also expressed sadness over the inability of Borno State government, through the new State Emergency Man-

as provide post-finance services,’’ he said. According to him, the bank is currently partnering 10 SME-friendly banks to provide working capital for BoI customers at a negotiated interest rate of Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) +6 per cent. “At the current MPR of 13 per cent, the applicable interest rate is 19 per cent per annum. “In pursuit of inclusive growth, the bank has worked assiduously to identify SME clusters in Kano with the aim of extending financial support to the entrepreneurs operating there,” he said. Olaoluwa therefore, called on people of the state to take advantage of the bank’s presence in Kano, to boost socio-economic activities. “We believe the developmental impact of the bank will be greatly enhanced in support of the real sector and complement the state government’s socioeconomic development objective,” he said.

agement Agency, SEMA, to donate more than N10 million used in taking care of victims by the hospital. The committee boss made these revelations when Director-General of NEMA, Sani Sidi, led some of its officials and other humanitarian agency staff like the Red Cross on a one-day visit to UMTH to sympathise with insurgency victims receiving treatment.

kum II Constituency, Mark Useni, said the request was in order, noting that the governor was mindful of the number of appointees requested given the present financial situation of the state. Members unanimously supported the request, which resolution the Speaker, Abel Peter Diah, requested that the Clerk communicate to the governor. In another development, the Assembly has set up a five-man ad hoc committee to look into issues surrounding poor internally generated revenues, IGRs, in the state with a view to boosting the state’s revenue profile. John Kizito Bonzena (Zing Constituency) had earlier in a motion raised concern over non-remittance of Pay As You Earn, PAYE, taxes and IGRs to government, adding that the new administration must end all leakages in revenue generation in the state. In their various contributions, members described the motion as timely and unanimously supported it.

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

World News We are a nation that appreciates and recognises the rights of every individual and their freedom of worship. We will not allow any person to force on us a way of life that is not ours. –Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta

DR Congo tops global corruption index Paul Arhewe

WITH AGENCY REPORTS

Half of the 10 most corrupt countries in the world are in subSaharan Africa, a region that is attracting increasing investor interest due to its natural resources and rapid population growth, according to a global graft index released yesterday. Democratic Republic of Congo topped the 2015 Corruption Risk Index by risk advisory firm Verisk Maplecroft, followed by Somalia, Central African Republic, Sudan and Equatorial Guinea. The report blamed factors including high levels of poverty and lack of institutions to combat bribery for sub-Saharan Africa being the region most affected by corruption. “Factors such as weak rule of

law and a lack of institutional capacity ... undermine efforts to combat entrenched systems of patronage, while exposure to corrupt public officials and a reliance on third party agents is also higher,” Trevor Slack, Verisk Maplecroft analyst, said in a statement. A key reason why politicians fail to fight bribery is that senior officials responsible for addressing the issue profit from it most, the report said. Middle Eastern countries such as Iraq or Syria continued to dominate the list of countries where graft remained a major blow to the business environment due to conflict and almost non-existent rule of law. The study named some of the world’s top energy producers as having extreme corruption risk,

DR Congo President, Joseph Kabila

among them Iraq, Russia, Venezuela, Nigeria and Kazakhstan. The annual index ranks 198

Escaped tiger kills man in Georgia

tiger that killed a man and wounded another after escaping from a flooded zoo in Georgia has been shot dead, the Georgian interior ministry says. The animal was one of several to break free from enclosures at Tbilisi Zoo last weekend following severe flooding. Police said they tracked the tiger to a disused warehouse but could not sedate it because it was too aggressive. The flash floods devastated parts of Tbilisi, claiming the lives of 13 people, including three zoo keepers. There was uncertainty on Wednesday about the number of dangerous animals still on the loose, with reports on Twitter of another tiger being cornered in a city centre cafe after the first was shot dead.

The zoo had said on Tuesday that all of the missing lions and tigers had been found dead, with one jaguar unaccounted for sparking confusion when news of the tiger attack on the two men emerged. Internal Affairs Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri told the press that the animal was found “hiding in an unused store room”. “We tried our best to sedate the tiger, but it was not possible because the animal was too aggressive. So unfortunately we had to liquidate it,” he said. Special police units drafted in to deal with the threat posed by dangerous animals have faced criticism, with zoo workers alleging that animals have been killed unnecessarily. The zoo’s website says two white Bengali tigers live at the facility, one male and one female.

The flash floods devastated parts of Tbilisi, claiming the lives of 13 people, including three zoo keepers. Up to six people are still missing and about 40 families lost their homes. Hundreds of volunteers took to the streets on Wednesday to help clear up the mess left by the floodwater. “It is hard work, yes, but we should do it, it is our job,” one volunteer told the BBC. “We do not work for the zoo, we are just citizens helping to arrange everything. It’s the only zoo we have.” The volunteers, many dressed in trainers and ordinary clothes and armed only with shovels, helped dig animals from the mud and carry them away.

ISIS kills 5 policemen near Iraq’s Baiji refinery

slamic State has killed five policemen in a town near Iraq’s biggest refinery, in an attack that may help ease pressure on some of its fighters trapped in the strategically important facility, a security official said yesterday. The official in a regional security command centre said the insurgents mounted the operation at Tal Albu Jarad village as part of a battle for control of Baiji refinery, which has changed hands several times. After receiving reinforcements, Islamic State militants recaptured three neighborhoods in the town of Baiji near the refinery, but fresh clashes have erupted there, the security official said.

Two ex-junta members indicted for Guinea stadium massacre

Police said they were unable to sedate the Tiger because it was too aggressive

countries on the prevalence of bribery and government effectiveness in fighting it.

court in Guinea has indicted two generals, both senior officials in the country’s former military junta, for a 2009 massacre of pro-democracy demonstrators, a leading human rights campaigner and judicial officials said yesterday. President Alpha Conde, elected in 2010 in Guinea’s first democratic handover of power since independence from France in 1958, has faced criticism from

rights groups for the slow pace of the investigation into the rapes and killings at the rally. Though charges have been brought against a number of officials, none has yet stood trial for the violence. “Generals Mamadouba Toto Camara and Mathurin Bangoura were indeed charged along with other soldiers and civilians,” said Thierno Maadjou Sow, president of the Guinean Human Rights Organisation.

What about the masses’ wish list, Mr. President? Continued from Back Page system. The railway sector, given some whispering boost by the Jonathan administration, must now burst forth into the arena of true change and revival. Nigerians deserve better transportation facilities than they have been given over the years. Why shouldn’t we have modern, fast train services linking the major cities of Nigeria? Why can’t I shuttle from Lagos to Kano in three hours and return to Lagos in the evening, mission fulfilled? Is Nigeria not ripe for this? Air travel is another behemoth. Why can’t you assure us fast that you are ready to break the jinx? Indeed, I expected this to have been part of your G7 wish list, given the urgency and importance of this sector to national advancement. Agriculture is another item requiring true, urgent attention. The last administration truly did so much in this sector and you must advance the momentum without delay. In the fast waning world of the influence of oil, in a global village moving rapidly from mono product economy, Nigeria must break the shackle of undue dependence on the moribund petroleum resources. Agriculture is one such ray of good hope and, blimey! We are so endowed. The economy needs diversification and you would have started well if the success recorded by Jonathan in agriculture is advanced to greater heights. There is also the anti-corruption battle. This is one area that really boosted your advent to the much desired presidency, given your pedigree. You must give true teeth to the battle now or never. The shenanigans of politics, like the one that erupted in the National Assembly recently, must not deter you from the stance you are known for. You can do it, but time is of the essence. The list is long, sir, but like you were given hope in Germany, Nigerians demand true hope back at home. Mr. President, arise and shine. Ojewusi wrote via solaojewusi@yahoo.com

Thursday September 4, 2014

I would not have had so good in any league all over the world. Nothing like the English Premier League

Thursday, June 18, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

NJF stages AAG trials

–Chelsea midfielder, Oscar

Brazil players celebrating their 5-0 Semi-final victory over Senegal, yesterday

NFF admits F/Eagles, Falcons shamed Nigerians ...Akinwunmi apologises

Joel Ajayi ABUJA

igeria Football Federation (NFF) General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, has decried the woeful performances of the Flying Eagles and Super Falcons in the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup and Women’s World Cup, saying the teams disappointed

Nigerians. Sanusi told newsmen yesterday in Abuja that the NFF and Nigerians had high expectations when the teams left for New Zealand and Canada respectively, but regretted that the expectations were misplaced. According to him, the performances of the teams fell short of their abilities at the

African championships and qualifiers where they defeated all comers. “Actually we are not happy with the performance of our teams at the World Cup, particularly the Flying Eagles. We had high expectations but that was not to be. You can see that this is a wake-up call and we need to go back to the drawing board and find out what we did

not do well so as to effect correction,” Sanusi said. Similarly, the NFF 1st Vice President, Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi, yesterday, while apologising to Nigerians for the unfulfilled dreams of the Flying Eagles and Super Falcons disclosed that the Federation is making moves to correct technical deficiencies in all the national teams.

N’Zealand 2015: Brazil, Serbia set up final date

he two finalists at the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand have been determined, with Brazil and Serbia set to fight for the crown on Saturday. On FIFA’s 14th annual Anti-Discrimination Day, it was the five-time champions from South America and the dark horses from south-east Europe who were celebrating come the

...Senegal, Mali battle for bronze final whistle in their respective matches, and both now have the trophy in their crosshairs. The two semi-finals were vastly different affairs, with the Seleçãozinha scoring early on before easing to a comfortable 5-0 victory over Senegal, while Serbia played through

120 minutes of nail-biting action before triumphing over Mali 2-1. On a day filled with tension, emotions and drama, one youngster in particular also emerged as his team’s hero for the second time in New Zealand. Meanwhile, two African

sides, Senegal and Mali, that were considered rank outsiders prior to the tournament will go head-to-head in the Play-off for Third Place after losing in yesterday’s semi-finals, but they can go into their last encounter in Auckland on Saturday

“We have from the outset noticed deficiencies in various aspects relating to the technical aspects of our national teams and moved swiftly to address the situation, hence one of our first initiatives was to organise training courses for match readers and to also buy into the Prozone Match Reading Software in order to build local competencies and match reading expertise to help our teams. Unfortunately these tournaments have come too early for us to reap the full benefits of this initiative which will take a little while to come to fruition,” Akinwunmi said. He continued, “In the Super Falcons, we saw so much potential, youthfulness and ability, but it is clear that while we have conquered Africa there is still a lot of work to be done in the area of technical support before we can take on the world of Women’s football.”

Sports

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Dedevbo

EPL:

Chelsea, Swansea kick-off season

returns as Falconets’ coach

C Peter Dedevbo

Paul Erewuba

he Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has re-appointed Peter Dedevbo as Head Coach of the U-20 women’s national

team, the Falconets. NFF spokesman, Ademola Olajire, who revealed this yesterday in Abuja, said the appointment took immediate effect. Dedevbo was in charge of the team last year when the

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Falconets made it to the final of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Canada, where they lost 1-0 to Germany. The gaffer will take charge of the Falconets as they begin their quest for qualification for the 2016

FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup when they take on Liberia next month. The Liberians edged out Sierra Leone in the earlier round of the qualifiers to set the stage for this encounter.

helsea will begin their Premier League title defence with a home game against Swansea on the weekend of August 8 and 9. Manchester City, who finished eight points adrift of the Blues, travels to West Brom while Manchester United hosts Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford. Arsenal hosts West Ham, Liverpool goes to Stoke City, Newcastle plays Southampton and Leicester welcomes Sunderland. Promoted trio Bournemouth, Watford and Norwich face Aston Villa, Everton and Crystal Palace respectively. The top-flight season starts a week earlier than last season on the same weekend as the Football League, as the 2016 European Championship starts on June 10.

Action at the Lagos version of the Principal’s Cup tournament

Mourinho

Wages offset excites Sharks, Dolphins

Principal’s Cup:

Ifeanyi Eduzor

Abuja FA constitutes MOC Afolabi Gambari

he FCT Football Association has approved the organisation of the maiden 2015 Principal’s Cup Football Competition for all secondary schools in Abuja. Chairman of the association, Alhaji Musa Saeed Talle, said the board aimed at grassroots development that would see

hidden talent discovered and nurtured. “We also hope to bring back the glamour that is associated with secondary school football competition in the past,” Talle said. Meanwhile, the Main Organising Committee for the competition has been constituted. 1st Vice Chairman of the Abuja FA, Mr. Patrick Ngwaogu, heads the committee.

Other members are Mr. Godwin Bamigboye (Vice Chairman), Mr. Zakari Musa, Mr. Kayode Adeniyi (FCT SWAN Chairman), Mr. Akin Adejumo and Mr. Luka Mohammed. Barrister Victoria Nlemigbo, Alhaji Adamu Mohammed, Mr. Hashimu Adamu and a representative from the FCT Secondary Education Board complete the membership while Haruna Usman Ilerika will serve as Sec-

retary. Talle disclosed that the MOC would be inaugurated on June 23 when the Medical Committee of the FA, headed by Dr. Charles Agadu, will also be unveiled. Other members of the Medical Committee are Mr. Patrick Mbah, Dr. Maimagani Ibrahim, Mr. Ibrahim Bako, Mr. David Habakuk and Ms Queendolyn Akpan who will serve as Secretary.

eneral Manager of Sharks Football Club of Port Harcourt, Okey Kpaluku, has commended Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike for approving the payment of backlog of salaries for all the state-owned teams, including Dolphins. Kpaluku, who spoke after the teams received assurances from the Permanent Secretary of the state’s Ministry of Sports that the governor had approved the payments, described the gesture as a confirmation of an earlier promise by the governor that his administration would give sports a face-lift in the state. “We are highly motivated and I think this will lead to a change of fortunes for us,” he said yesterday.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sports

Thursday, June 18, 2015

PRO, Office of Sports, Lagos Ministry of Sports, Olumide Filade (r); Yemisi; President NCF, Lekan Adeyemi; Director, Kasperov Foundation, African Zone, Graham Jurgensen; Perm Sec., Office of Sports, Sewedo Oluseyi Whenu; Secretary, NCF, Bidemi Ganiyu Opollo; Head of Sports, Office of Sports, Nunayon Travih, and Adebisi Aderemi-Adewale during NCF delegation’s visit to the Lagos Ministry of Sports

‘Lagos, home of Nigeria chess’

he Permanent Secretary, Office of Sports (OS), Lagos State Ministry of Youth, Sports and Social Development (MYSSD), Mr. Sewedo Oluseyi Whenu, yesterday hosted the Director, Kasperov Foundation, African Zone, Mr. Graham Jurgensen in his office. Jurgensen, who is on an of-

ficial visit to Nigeria along, visited Whenu in company of Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF) President, Mr. Lekan Adeyemi, and Secretary, Mrs. Bidemi Ganiyu Opollo. “The Lagos government believes that our youth are our tomorrow and they should be assisted to excel in their aspira-

tions,” Whenu said. “The Office of Sports has a department in charge of schools sports that will propagate the mini chess game initiative in conjunction with other agencies such as Ministry of Education and Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LSUBEB) as it would help enhance the pupils in under-

standing and solving english and mathematics problems,” he added, stressing, “We will not relent in developmental sports with various initiatives like the Adopt-ATalent Sports to identify, develop and mentor our athletes, as well as provision of scholarships to athletes in schools and skill acquisition trainings, amongst others.”

Director, Kasperov Foundation, African Zone, Mr. Graham Jurgensen, said his visit aimed to strengthen the cordial relationship between NCF and Lagos State. “I urge a continued working relationship between NCF and Lagos State to get the private sector to drive the development of the game,” Jurgensen said.

…Olape reigns at Millionaire Festival Afolabi Gambari

nternational Master, Bunmi Olape, has emerged as the winner of the maiden Millionaire Chess Festival in Lagos.

Olape

Olape, a veteran of several international chess tournaments, also won an all-expense paid trip to the 2nd Millionaire Chess scheduled for October 8 to 12 in Las Vegas, USA. With a total of $1milion in prizes, it is the highest-stakes open chess tournament in history. Olape’s victory was assured following a major setback by inform Eugene Uwana in his final game of the event when he made a blunder against Oluwadurotimi Lapite, enabling Olape to secure a win against Femi Adeshina to level on seven points with Lapite. “I started badly in the opening rounds but happy to return into wining way,” Olape said, adding,

“My opponents brought out the best in me.” About 170 players participated in different category of play in four-day tournament held at the Chevron Event Centre, Gbagada, Lagos. President of Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF), Mr. Lekan Adeyemi, commended the Millionaire Chess company which promotes chess and organises global tournaments for the sport. The tournament provides opportunities for chess players from African federations, even as the Kasparov Chess Foundation has agreed to provide full sponsorship of $5, 000 each to the three winners of the Millionaire events.

DStv B’ball: Union boss sure of victory Paul Erewuba

ith four more matches to round off the Conference play-off of the on-going DStv Men’s Basketball Premier League, Union Bank Basketball team has vowed to improve on its current third position, even as the club meets Oluyole Warriors in their Week 11 encounter this weekend.

Union Bank Coach, Johnson Ayinla, told National Mirror yesterday in Lagos that his charges would emerge victory in the game. Despite playing away to the Warriors, Ayinla said his players would take the game to their opponent’s half of the court from the blast of the whistle. “The game will be tough considering that the Warriors are still struggling for a slot in the

Final 8 Play-off. But we will come good,” the coach added. Meanwhile, Atlantic Conference league leader, Lagos Islanders, will take on Delta Force while Nigerian Customs battle Police and Kwara Falcons host Dodan Warriors of Lagos in Ilorin. Defending champions, Kano Pillars, will be at home against FCT Rocks in the Savannah Conference, while Plateau Peaks face Gombe Bulls in Jos.

Judo action at a recent event

NJF stages AAG trials Ifeanyi Eduzor

he Nigeria Judo Federation (NJF) is staging a two-day trial in Abuja with a view to raising a team capable of winning laurels at the 11th All Africa Games billed for Congo Brazzaville, National Mirror learnt yesterday that the event scheduled for July 2 to July 5 and will see men and women judokas in all the weight categories with valid licence compete at the Civil Defence Academy, Sauka near Abuja. President of the NJF, Dr. Musa Oshodi, said the trials would enable the federation to raise a team that could face any opposition at

the Africa Games. “We need the trials to get the very best of judokas who can make Nigeria proud,” Oshodi said, adding that athletes who excelled at the trials would be invited to camp ahead of the AAG. “We have little time in our hands. Immediately after the trials, we will open the camp for intensive preparation. But the judoka must not be less than 18 years in August. Athletes’ representative on the NJF board, Segun Gbayi, said the trials would enable the federation to determine the current form of the judokas. “Nigeria cannot afford to go to the Africa Games with a second rate squad,” Gbayi said.

WORLD RECORD

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

N150

Vol. 05 No. 1137 Thursday, June 18, 2015

What about the masses’ wish list, Mr. President?

hen mint-fresh President Muhammadu Buhari was a guest of the G7 nations in Germany recently he had in his pouch what has now become known as the “wish list”, which he eventually presented to the international giants. Although it remains to be seen how much of the mouth-watering wishes would be made good by the powers-that-be, who incidentally asked for them in the wake of the international euphoria that greeted Nigeria’s smooth transfer of power, there are indications that some goodies would eventually come the way of Nigeria. Of course, in the eyes of the western powers, we have suddenly become the new beacon of African democratic values. We have proved doomsayers wrong and have kept our commonwealth intact, despite the high decibel jangles of disintegration cymbals prior to the 2015

BA Welterweight Champion, Keith Thurman, is confident of securing a big-money fight with pound-forpound pugilist Floyd Mayweather. Thurman defends his title against Luis Collazo on July 11 in Tampa and believes another eye-catching performance can

Guest Columnist

Sola S l

Ojewusi

general elections. We have been able to raise the hope of the larger world, and there is such a breath of fresh air that has inspired the powers-that-be to view our nation again with the eye of hope. We are really expected to reap the dividends of dancing to the tunes of the world powers. So let the promised goodies come. But then, no matter our level of expectation as a nation, we should not expect heavens from the G7 stalwarts. For the change that we were promised by our new leaders to be truly manifested, charity must surely begin from home. And so, just as our President has gone to the outside world to present the expectations of his government to the world economic powers now courting us, Nigerians are also coming out with their national wish list - burning demands that President Buhari must not handle with levity. The items on the list are legion, but out of these, some are more pertinent and more pressing than the others. Some of these I will help the people present to Mr. President in this discourse. But before we even talk of the wishes, let me say there are disturbing signals emanating from the corridors of power that I believe with all sense of responsibility the President must address with military dispatch. One is the now festering notion that Mr. President is not showing signs that he is ready to hit the ground running. Mark me, I do not personally think that a fortnight at the helm is enough to judge the speed of a government’s policy direction, but Nigerians,

EXPERIENCE HAS TAUGHT NIGERIANS,

RIGHTLY OR WRONGLY, NOT TO BE PATIENT WITH DITHERING LEADERSHIP having been promised so much, and having been denied so much in the past, are looking at the new leadership with expectant eyes. In case the President does not know, thousands in the social media are already sharing cartoons in which the President is caricatured as riding on a snail on the trip to the Promised Land. Do not be deceived, Mr. President, it is very easy for the euphoria that ushered you into Aso Rock to wane quickly if slothful decision making begins to rear its head as the hallmark of the new leadership. Experience has taught Nigerians, rightly or wrongly, not to be patient with dithering leadership. Many believe that only a leadership of laggards would still be without ministers two weeks into a four-year tenure. Many are not buying your argument of caution when urgent duties of state are lying fallow without the stewards to tend to them. Signals from the villa are not encouraging to many and they have begun to vent their anger in many forums, especially the social media. When you visited 10 Downing Street

days to your inauguration, one expected that you would have borrowed a leaf from the dispatch with which David Cameron constituted his own cabinet as soon as he won the British election. Remember that, apart from the millions of admirers who voted for you, there are at least 10 million others who rather voted for your opponent. Go to the streets or at best the social media, these opponents of yours are already giving hell to your loyalists, harassing them with this I-told-you-so smugness that is really making your admirers uncomfortable. Be reminded, sir that frustration is contagious. You must act with dispatch and reassure the nation that we are not in for a “go-slow change” as being feared from many quarters. Sir, in an urgent battle, two lines of action are dangerous. To take the snail’s route tends to create despair in the hearts of expectant citizens. To also act without confidence can stymie the momentum. You must show true tenacity. You need to roll your sleeves fast and galvanize the nation into a believing citizenry. You must debunk the notion of senility rearing its ugly head in some quarters given your perceived slow take-off at the helm. Your leadership trajectory needs to be revved up with more determined transformational velocity, my dear leader. That to me is the true domain of serious agents of change. Really, I know you have the heart and will to make the difference but the speed of action is leaving much to be desired. On the burning issues in the wish list, sir you cannot speed fast enough in the nagging quest to transmogrify our electricity from the realm of mirage to that of true advancement. This is one very critical item in the national wish list. Nigerians need to be reassured that the years of electricity locusts are truly gone forever. Who is going to midwife the power ministry and serve as the true face of this all important battle? Another is the imperative for a functional, truly integrated modern transport Continues on page 52

Sport Extra

Boxing: Mayweather gets Thurman challenge help him earn a bout with WBA (super), WBO and WBC champion Mayweather. The 26-year-old will be making his first defence against Collazo. Mayweather is now 38 but with the likes of Thurman and Amir

Khan making public their desire to face him in one last ‘super-fight’, he may try to finish his career by reaching 49 fights unbeaten. “We’re definitely in line for the Mayweather shot. We’ve been in line for the Mayweather shot for a minute but it doesn’t matter who

I fight in the welterweight division,” Thurman, who is unbeaten in his 25 bouts as a professional, said yesterday. “I want to be a legend and the best way to become a legend is by taking out a legend, and that would be Floyd Mayweather.”

Mayweather

Printed and Published by Global Media Mirror Ltd: Head Office: Mirror House, 155/161 Broad Street, Lagos Tel: 07027107407, Abuja Office: NICON Insurance House, Second Floor, Central Business District Area, Abuja Tel: 08070428249, Advert hotline: 01-8446073, Port-Harcourt Office: Suite 115, NICON Hotel, 6, Benjamin Opara Street, Off Olusegun Obasanjo Rd, GRA Phaze 3, Phone: 07032323254 Email: mail@nationalmirroronline.net. Acting Editor: BEN MEMULETIWON. All correspondence to PMB 10001, Marina, Lagos. Printed simultaneously in Lagos, Abuja and Akure. ISSN 0794-232X.