Thursday, october 22, 2015 new by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

Code of Conduct Tribunal stays proceedings on Sarakiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perjury trial DOOSUUR IWAMBE ABUJA

he trial of the Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki, before the Code of Con-

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duct Tribunal over alleged false declaration of assets yesterday suffered a setback following the pending judgment of the Court of Appeal. At the resumed hearing

Thursday, October 22, 2015

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A three store y building which colla Lagos Islan psed on 87 d, trapping Odunfa Stree many with few rescu t, PHOTO: SAM ed yesterday. UEL ADET IMEHIN

yesterday, Saraki arrived at the tribunal in the company of about 34 other Senators. All the senators, including the Senate President CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

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Lagos Island: One collapsed building too many ...as six cheat death in another building collapse

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Tribunal orders re-run A in Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ibom guber poll

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DOOSUUR IWAMBE ABUJA

kwa-Ibom State guber natorial election petition tribunal sitting in Abuja has ordered a re-run of the April 11 poll in 18 out of the 31 local government areas of the state. Election in the affected local government areas is to be conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC,

Affirms re-election of Yobe governor

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L-R: (Front row) Former Head of Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan; Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; President Muhammadu Buhari; former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon; former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubarkar; former Chief Justices of Nigeria, Mohammed Uwais and Alfa Belgore; and state governors after the maiden National Council of State meeting, at the Presidential Villa In Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Council of State confirms Yakubu as new INEC chairman ...Commission says 611 petitions before tribunals

20 arrested pro-Biafra supporters remanded in prison

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Tribunal orders re-run in A’Ibom guber poll CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

within 90 days. The affected local councils include: Uyo, Eket, Ibesikpo, Ona, Ukanafun, Ikono, Oron, Uruan, Ibiano-Ibom and Etinan. Chairman of the tribunal, Justice Sadiq Umar, nullified the election while delivering judgment in a petition filed by the All Progressives Congress and its governorship candidate, Mr. Umana Umana. In the judgment that lasted over seven hours, the tribunal agreed with the petitioner that there was disenfranchisement as a result of widespeed violence, snatching of election materials and irregularities and harassment of the election umpire. However, the tribunal was silent on the prayer seeking invalidation of the election of governor Emmanuel Udom. Earlier in the judgment, the tribunal dismissed the forensic report on the grounds that those who generated the report admitted in their witnesses’ statements that they were not forensic experts. More so in the judgment the tribunal dismissed the press statement issued by INEC in the use of card reader for the elections. According to Justice Umar “the card reader report is not a conclusive report to ascertain the actual number of accredited voters. That press release concerning the card reader report is null and void as it offended the provisions of section 49 of the Electoral Act which deals with the process of accreditation in an election.” The APC witnesses who came on the pedestal of experts all declined before the tribunal that they were experts. According to the tribunal the so called experts did not show the tribunal how they came about their findings. Meanwhile, Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal for Yobe State sitting in Abuja also yesterday upheld the re-election of Governor Ibrahim Gaidam. In a judgment of the tribunal read by Justice

Mojisola Dada, the tribunal held that the petitioners- the PDP and its governorship candidate, Waziri Maina - failed to

prove their case. The tribunal dismissed the petition for lacking in merit. Delivering the judg-

ment, Dada said that out of the 27 witnesses called by the petitioners at the trial, none of them could lead credible evidence to

establish or prove the allegations before the court. She said the petition was incompetent owing to the elicited facts that

the entire allegations contained in it were ``imprecise, vague and speculative.’’ CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

L-R: Governors, Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto), Kashim Shettima (Yobe), Akinwunmi Ambode (Lagos), Jibrilla Bindow (Adamawa) and Ibrahim Geidam (Yobe), during the presentation of N50million relief funds for each of the states by Governor Ambode, in Abuja, yesterday.

Code of Conduct Tribunal stays proceedings on Saraki’s perjury trial CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

came in four Costa buses with registration number ‘NASS MGT’. After announcing appearance, the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, noted that it was proper and procedural for the accused person who is present in court to stay in the dock while the trial proceeds. Opposing the submission, counsel to accused person, Mahmud Magaji, SAN, urged the court to take judicial notice of the fact that there is a pending appeal before the Court of Appeal, and hence the tribunal lacked the power to continue with the trial. In a short ruling, the chairman of the tribunal, Justice Danladi Umar, held that the accused person should enter the dock, after which any other application could be made. It was at this point that the Senate President moved into the dock and was given a chair inside the dock to sit. Jacobs, however, in-

formed the court about the pendency of the judgement at the Court of Appeal, noting that it would be a sign of respect to the appellate court for the prosecution to wait for its judgement before any other thing could be done on the matter and further prayed the court to adjourn for two weeks. Magaji who opposed the application for two weeks adjournment consequently prayed the court to adjourn the matter indefinitely pending the judgement of the Court of Appeal. Delivering a short ruling, Justice Umar held that the adjournment would be for two weeks. According to him, “the fact that the Court of Appeal adjourned indefinitely cannot make us here to also adjourn indefinitely. If we do so, the defendant may go and relax and we want defendant to be on his toes. “The tribunal is therefore adjourned till November 5 and 6 for report

from Court of Appeal and possibly hearing”. The Court of Appeal, Abuja Division had on Monday adjourned indefinitely, judgment in an appeal filed by Saraki seeking to stop his trial. The federal government had last month arraigned Saraki before the tribunal on a 13-count charge bothering on false assets declaration. Saraki, though pleaded not guilty to the charge, approached the Court of Appeal to challenge the decision of the tribunal to try him. At the Appeal Court, Saraki, through his team of lawyers led by J.B. Daudu contended that the Code of Conduct Tribunal erred in law by proceeding with the trial with two members instead of mandatory three as provided by the constitution. He argued that the composition of the tribunal during the trial of Saraki violated paragraphs 15(1) of the 1999 constitution by sitting with two mem-

bers instead of three and asked the court to nullify the CCT proceedings of last month due to lack of quorum. The appellant counsel disagreed with the arguments of the federal government counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, that the Interpretation Act could be used to resolve the constitutional logjam since the constitution was silent on the quorum for the tribunal membership. Daudu insisted that the Interpretation Act could not override the constitution being the supreme law and the act being inferior to the constitution. He also argued that the tribunal was wrong in assuming criminal jurisdiction against the Senate President when it was not a superior court of record. Daudu who cited several authorities submitted that the tribunal could not assume concurrent jurisdiction with the Federal High Court, adding that the code of conduct tribu-

nal was by law inferior to the Federal High Court. He therefore urged the Appeal Court to nullify the proceedings of the tribunal against Saraki and to also set aside the criminal charges filed against him by the federal government on account of being illegal and unlawful. However, opposing the submissions of Saraki’s counsel, the federal government through its counsel – Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, asked that the appeal case be dismissed for lacking merit. Jacobs told the 3-man Appeal Court panel that the constitution was silent on the quorum of the tribunal memberships. He urged the court to invoke the Interpretation Act to resolve the issue in favour of the respondent. The respondent counsel also submitted that the tribunal had criminal jurisdiction because of the use of words like “guilty” and “punishment” in the law that established the tribunal.

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Thursday, October 22, 2015

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Thursday, October 22, 2015

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L-R: Secretary, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Enugu State, Chief Romanus Ezeh; President, Sescoop Investment Ltd, Rev. Madu Samuel and State Chairman, AFAN, Chief Sunny Nwatarali, during investment workshop for members of AFAN Enugu Cooperative, in Enugu, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Managing Director, Accion Microfinance Bank, Mrs. Bunmi Lawson (left) and representative of the Rivers State Deputy Governor, Mr. Gilbert Nria, during the commissioning of the bank complex in Port Harcourt, yesterday.

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L-R: Area Commander, Nigeria Police, Iyaganku, Mr. Bature Umar; Deputy Commissioner of Police (Finance and Administration), Mr. Amba Asuquo and Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Leye Oyebade, during the meeting of Fulani herdsmen with farmers and stakeholders in Oke-Ogun and other areas of the state, in Ibadan, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Girls during a conference on the social protection of the girl child in Nigeria, in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

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Why Ekweremadu won’t preside over ministerial screening –Ndume George Oji Abuja

enate Leader, Senator Ali Ndume (Borno South) yesterday provided insight into why the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu will not be allowed to preside over the ministerial screening exercise by the senate. According to the Ndume, the exercise is too critical to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, to allow Ekweremadu who is of the opposition People’s Democratic Party, PDP, to preside over the event. This according to Ndume, informed in part, the reason why the senate decided to adjourn further screening of the nominees yesterday. Besides, the lawmaker explained that the adjournment was necessitated by the need to enable the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, honour his appointment at

the Code of Conduct Tribunal and return to preside over the exercise. Ndume stated that it was not true that the senate adjourned plenary in solidarity with Saraki as wrongly reported, noting that the Senate as an institution does not belong to Saraki or indeed any other individual senator. “This Senate does not belong to Saraki, Senator Ali Ndume or anybody. The Senate is an institution, an independent arm of government and should be respected and strengthened,” Ndume said, while fielding questions from newsmen at the National Assembly yesterday. Commenting on the provisions of section 147(6) of the constitution, which prescribes a time limit of 21 days within which ministerial nominees must be confirmed by the senate or stand automatically ap-

proved, the he stated that the 21 days does not apply to the senate in the sense that what amounts to 21 days, going by the senate rule is different from the normal days. According to him, since the Senate sits for three days of the week (i.e. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursday), it then means that the said 21 days will be equals to seven days for the senate. “But the constitution is guiding us that we have to do this within 21 working days. And we are still within the 21 working days. It is not 21 days, it is 21 working days. And our working days in the Senate plenary is three days in a week. “So, if you are talking about 21 working days, it means that the Senate will do this within seven weeks because we sit for plenary Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. That is three working days. It means that

logically, we can do this up to seven weeks,” Ndume said. On the need by the senate to speedily dispense with the screening exercise, the leader wondered why Nigerians did not express the same anxiety when President Muhammadu Buhari took as long as four months to announce the nominees. He expressed concerns that at the same time Nigerians want the senate to carry out thorough screening of the nominees, so many other Nigerians are insisting on speedy conclusion of the exercise. He said: “We are supposed to be talking about the screening details. We screened 10 last time, the public started saying you are screening 10 in one day? In America, they screen one senator in two weeks. We said which one is the reasonable number? “We have six weeks going. So, let’s take three (ministerial nominees) so that

we will take it for six days. And that will be six weeks by our calendar and we will still be within the 21 days. So, we started yesterday, taking three, one was not ready for certain issues. And they said we only screened two. And the constitution does not provide that every Nigerian is a senator. So, we are the Senators, you are the journalists. Do your job, let’s do our job.” Regarding the screening of the former Governor of Rivers State, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, and the delay by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Petition to submit the report of the petitions against the former governor, the leader explained that at the end of the day, it is not the outcome of the petition report that would determine the fate of the candidate, but the entire senate. He stated that so long the APC maintains majority in the senate, Amaechi’s fate

would be determined by the ruling APC senators. “But let me add that the Ethics and Privileges report is not the determinant of Amaechi. It is the Senate. Even if they write their report, it has to be laid before the Senate, which will decide on the report. “It is not the report that will decide the fate of Amaechi. Whatever the Committee recommends to the Senate, it is the Senate that will decide. And I have told Nigerians several times that this Senate belongs to APC. We have PDP senators that are in the minority. “We are practicing democracy in a changed environment. That is to allow the minorities to have their say. But you know that the majority will always have its way. We have 58 senators, the Senate President excluded, and they have 48 Senators. And Amaechi is an APC candidate and the constitution is very clear.

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Thursday, October 22, 2015

Council of State confirms Yakubu as new INEC chairman ROTIMI FADEYI AND OMEIZA AJAYI

ouncil of State yesterday approved and confirmed the appointment of Professor Mahmood Yakubu as Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. Also confirmed yesterday were Mrs. Amina Bala Zakari as member representing North West; Dr. Antonia Taiye OkoosiSimbile as Commissioner, North Central and Alhaji Baba Shettima Arfo, from Borno as Commissioner representing North East. Similarly, the council confirmed Dr. Mohammed Mustapha Lekki from Edo as Commissioner representing South South and Prince Soyebi Adedeji Solomon from Ogun representing South West. The new INEC chairman takes over from Zakari who has been acting as chairman of the commission since June when Professor Attahiru Jega quit office after his tenure. Briefing State House Correspondents at the end of the first Council of State meeting chaired by President Muhammadu Buhari, Sokoto State governor, Aminu Tambuwal, said the council received a memo on the nomination of chairman and five commissioners for INEC. According to him, the memo was in conformity with the provisions of the constitution, particularly Sections 154 (1 and 3 and 156 (3) that confers on the president the powers to appoint a chairman and national commissioners of INEC, in consultation with the Council of State. Tambuwal explained that the situation in INEC was such that it required an emergency meeting to approve the nominations by the president, because the law stipulates that a minimum of four commissioners should form a quorum in INEC, which is not the case presently because the tenures of 11 national ccmmissioners had expired. The governor said, “The council has agreed to stagger the confirmation of this appointment of Commissioners of

INEC in view of the situation we found ourselves presently whereby the tenures of individual commissioners expired almost over the same time.” “To avert future occurrence of such a situation, the Council has agreed that the next six of the Commissioners should be submitted to the Council subsequently for its approval. These names has been approved and would be transmitted to the National Assembly for confirmation”, Tambuwal added. He said that Kogi and Bayelsa states polls did not come up for discussion at the council, reasoning that it was a matter that is strictly under the purview of the commission itself. On who will supervise the polls, Tambuwal said, “Obviously the new chairman and members of the commission (will). I have said earlier on that we need a quorum for the commission to function and that is why Mr. President, in his wisdom, summoned this emergency meeting for us to approve these names. So, I am sure it is the new chairman that will now supervise and conduct the elections in Kogi and Bayelsa.” The council commended former national chairman of INEC, Professor Attahiru Jega, for conducting a free and fair general elections, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, told journalists at the end of the meeting. Shehu said the council was full of commendation for Jega for presiding over elections generally accepted as free and fair. He explained that the president directed the council secretariat to note the commendations. “The council noted and commended Prof. Jega for his laudable activities as the chairman of INEC. “The president directed that the secretariat should note the commendations. “A letter of commendation may later be sent to the former INEC boss,” Shehu said. Meanwhile, INEC yesterday presented a 232page report on the 2015 general elections, saying electronic voting is the

way forward for Nigeria’s electoral process. Electronic voting is currently unknown to Nigeria’s electoral laws. While saying technology could not be divorced from the relative success of the last elections, INEC equally stated that election-related litigations were now on the decline. According to the electoral body, from 1, 290 petitions in 2007, the figure dropped to 732 in the aftermath of the 2011 general elections and again dipped some steps downward to 611 after the recent general elections.

Acting chairperson of the commission, Amina Bala Zakari, expressed optimism that the incidence of nullified elections would be correspondingly low in this dispensation. She said the 2015 general elections had given INEC further insights into the challenges of the Nigerian electoral process, promising that INEC would also approach the forthcoming Bayelsa and Kogi governorship elections from the perspectives of the lessons learnt in the last polls. “It is our sincere hope that other stakeholders...

will also approach future polls with a renewed vigour and determination as well as enhanced skills, to improve on the standard attained in the 2015 elections,” she stated. The report which was compiled by a team led by a former INEC national commissioner, Chris Iyimoga, listed several lessons as well as challenges encountered in the elections. On the way forward, the report called for more engagement with stakeholders, prompt delimitation of constituencies and creation of polling units,

further reforms and electronic voting. While stating that technology adds value and integrity to the electoral process, it said the deployment of Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs and SmartCard Readers, SCRs, was a great game-changer in the last elections. “It is against this backdrop that the Commission should be working with other critical stakeholders, consider the prospects of introducing electronic voting, which is currently prohibited by law,” the report advised.

L-R: National Commissioner, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Amb. Lawrence Nwuruku; Acting Chairman, INEC, Hajia Amina Zakari; Resident Electoral Commissioner for Lagos, Mr. Akin Orebiyi and former National Commissioner, Dr. Chris Iyimoga, during the public presentation of the 2015 General Elections’ Report, in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Tribunal orders re-run in A’Ibom guber poll CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the petitioners had asked the tribunal to annul the April 11 re-election of the governor on the ground that he was not validly elected as the poll was fraught with irregularities and monetary inducement. Respondents to the petition were Gaidam, APC, INEC, Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the state, Abu Zuma, and the governor’s Aidede-Camp (ADC), Zakari Deba. Counsel to the petitioners, Chief Adeniyi Akintola, SAN, had told the

tribunal that more than 300,000 registered voters were disenfranchised. He had also led evidence on the allegation that the REC was financially induced with N15 million to rig the election in favour of the governor. Specifically, the petitioners had alleged that the governor’s ADC paid N8 million and N7 million into two accounts of the REC with Zenith and Diamond banks, respectively. The petitioners had tendered documents and subpoenaed officials of the bank to testify to buttress their allegation. In defending the petition, counsel to Gaidam

and APC, Mr. Yusuf Ali, SAN, had submitted that in the determination of the petition, the tribunal should rely on law and facts. “Justice according to law is based on facts, not sentiment, and should be without fear or favour. “When documents are tendered, they should be linked with the facts of the matter, and are useless without this,’’ he said. Ali therefore prayed the tribunal to dismiss the petition. In his submission also, counsel to INEC and the REC, Mr. Abeny Mohammed, SAN, described

issues raised by the petitioners as “whirlwind in a tea cup or much ado about nothing.” “The Court has no jurisdiction to inquire into criminal matter; secondly, there is no evidence before the tribunal to show that the result of the election was influenced by allegations of malpractice and inducement,” he said. Mr. Titus Ashaolu, the counsel to Deba had submitted that his client was not a party to the election and that there was no evidence to prove his involvement in any of the allegations levelled by the petitioners.

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Buhari appoints Oyo-Ita Ag. Head of Service Omeiza Ajayi Abuja

resident Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Mrs. Winifred Ekanem Oyo-Ita, FCA, as Acting Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. Her appointment took effect from yesterday. Oyo-Ita, until her appointment, was the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, and a native of Odukpani Local Government, Cross River State. Director of Press in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Bolaji Adebiyi said the appointment is “a testimony of Mr. President’s implicit confidence and trust” in her ability to discharge the responsibilities of the office of Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.

President Buhari had on Tuesday approved a pre-retirement leave for the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mr. Danladi Kifasi. A letter to that effect was sent to Mr. Kifasi, with the leave having taken effect from Tuesday, October 20, 2015. Presidency sources said Kifasi should have proceeded on leave on October 1, but was kept for “certain reasons.” They denied speculations that the former Head of Service was sacked. Kifasi was appointed in August last year by former President Goodluck Jonathan and had just one year to spend in the saddle before formally exiting the service. Since the appointment of Lawal in August, there had been speculations that the president was looking for a way to drop Kifasi as both appointees hail from the

same North East region. While Kifasi is from Taraba State, Lawal is from neighbouring Adamawa, both part of the old Gongola State. In the letter convey-

ing the President’s approval and sighted by our correspondent, Lawal stated the president’s “appreciation for the meritorious service to the nation during his

tenure as Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. “The President wishes Mr. Kifasi God’s guidance and best of luck in his future endeavours,”

part of the letter read. Director, Communications in the Office of the Head of Civil Service, Haruna Rasheed Imrana also confirmed the development yesterday.

President Muhammadu Buhari (3rd left); Special Envoy from Venezuela/Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs for Africa, Mr. Reinaldo Bolivar (2nd left), Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Paul Lolo (3rd right) and other members of the delegation after a meeting with President Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

2015 elections: development partners Speaker’s absence support INEC with N5bn –Report stalls proceedings D in House of Reps Ubong Ukpong Abuja

bsence of Speaker, House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara and his Deputy, Sulaiman Lasun, yesterday stalled proceedings at the plenary, forcing lawmakers to adjourned sitting to today. The lawmakers had taken their seats in readiness to carry on with the business of the day as contained in the Order Paper that had already been circulated, when the Speaker emerged and after taking the prayers, announced that he was going to be leaving for the Council of State meeting. Considering that his Deputy had been away in Switzerland for the InterParliamentary Union, IPU, conference, there was no one to preside over the plenary. Consequently, the Speaker asked that the House adjourned to al-

low him leave for the meeting and it was carried by the House. In the Order Paper for the day, seven bills were slated for first reading, two for second reading, while five motions were also scheduled for deliberation.

evelopment partners supported the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, with over N5bn in the conduct of the 2015 general elections, a report has said. This is contained in the INEC 2015 General Elections Report that was presented to the public by the acting Chairman of INEC, Hajiya Amina Zakari, on Wednesday in Abuja. According to the re-

port, N5, 207, 260,433 was provided by nine development partners to support some activities of the commission. The report said N165m ($1m) was provided by the Ford Foundation to support Business Process Re-design, BPR, and Voter Education. It also puts UNDP/DGD grant at N177,045,935.55 ($1,073,005.67) to support Election Management System, EMS, and train-

ing for security officials. The sum of N13,986,060 from the Open Society for Initiatives for West Africa, OSIWA, was also received to support prosecution of election offences and gazette of election regulations. The report further revealed that N1,525,129,488 was used to support voter education and enlightenment from EU, through UNDP/DGD. The report noted that

CJ inaugurates two divisions of FCT High Court to fast track justice

CT Chief Judge, Justice Ishaq Bello, yesterday inaugurated two divisions of the court in Bwari and Gwagwalada to bring the administration of justice closer to litigants. At the ceremony, respectively held at Bwari and Gwagwalada, Bello said the two divisions were created to address the challenges faced by lawyers and litigants in filing cases at the city centre. Before now, filing of cases in the FCT High court was centralised at the Maitama headquarters of the court.

“We cannot turn blind eyes to these challenges,’’ Bello said. He said all cases originating from the areas should be filed in the two divisions inaugurated. He said Justice Charles Agbaza would serve as the supervisory judge of the Bwari division, while Justice Balami Mwada would supervise the Gwagwalada division. Bello disclosed that two other divisions of the high court would also be inaugurated in Nyanya and Karu. The CJ also inaugurated the executive of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA,

Gwagwalada Branch. Bello urged members of the executive not to betray the trust reposed in them by those who elected them into office. He also urged them to adhere to the oath they took and ensure ethical conduct in the discharge of their responsibilities. Bello also charged NBA members to exhibit professionalism and to refrain from pursuing self interest in handling of cases in order not to derail justice. Responding, the newly elected NBA Chairman, Mr. Abdulwahab Moham-

med, said the inauguration of the divisions of the high court was a milestone. He said the inauguration had brought justice to their door-step and would avail litigants the opportunity to file their cases in Gwagwalada. NBA Chairman, Bwari Chapter, Mr. Ben Nafagha, said there was no judge sitting in the FCT High court in Bwari in the past two years. He commended the CJ for the inauguration, adding that it will facilitate quick dispensation of justice.

N10m from UNDP/GDG was for sponsorship of pre-election and post election workshops for accredited observers. The UNDP/GDP, according to the report, also provided N2,896,118,940 for the sponsorship of INEC engagement with relevant and strategic stakeholders. It noted that N114m was received from the International Foundation for Electoral Systems, IFES, for training. The MacArthur Foundation also supported INEC’s civil education and elections monitoring through Yar’Adua Centre with N264m ($1.6m). It added that the commission got fund from International IDEA for preventing conflict and electoral violence totalling N41,980,000 (209,900 euro) It puts exchange rate at N165 per dollar and N200 per euro as at the time of the donation. The report, which did not state how much commission spent in the conduct of the elections, showed that N108,851,683,313.93 was appropriated for the 2015 election.

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Thursday, October 22, 2015

No hiding place for B’Haram, cattle rustlers –Army

eneral Officer Commanding, 1 Division Nigeria Army, Kaduna, Maj.-Gen. Adeniye Oyebade, said there is no hiding place for fleeing members of Boko Haram and cattle rustlers. Oyebade spoke yesterday during an interactive session with journalists in Kaduna. According to him, the Nigerian military is winning the war against Boko Haram and other criminal activities like cattle rustling. “For the Boko Haram,

there is no place for them to escape, we are succeeding because we have a good synergy with other security operatives. “Over 20,000 cows have been recovered from cattle rustlers with our joint operation and it will continue until we clear bandits from the forests, and criminal activities will be reduced to the barest minimum.’’ Oyebade said they were committed to the mandate given to them by President Muhammadu Buhari to finish off Boko Haram on or before the end of the

year. “We are also committed to the vision of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen Tukur Buratai, that the army must act professionally within the rules of engagement.’’ Oyebade urged journalists to be patriotic in their reportage and to always balance their stories. “The issue of national security is very important and Nigeria Army protects the national interest. All of us have a role to play. “Report what is right and make sure you get the

right information as a professional,’’ he said. According to him, the media has a role to play in creating awareness and to support security operatives to enable them tackle the Boko Haram menace. The commandant urged the media to promote national issues and stop sectionalising issues. He also charged members of the public to report any strange movement to the nearest security office and promised that they would swing into action immediately.

Buhari lauds Williams’ contribution to national development Rotimi Fadeyi, ABUJA

resident Muhammadu Buhari has commended renowned doyen of accounting profession in the country, Akintola Williams, on the occasion of this year’s Akintola Williams Distinguished Lecture Series. A statement issued yesterday by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said Buhari applauded the continuing contributions of Williams to national progress and development, even at the grand age of 96, through the lecture series which were established to promote integrity, professionalism and sound corporate governance in Nigeria. Buhari also commended Williams and the organisers of the annual lecture series on their choice of “Leadership Factors And Good Cor-

porate Governance - Key to National Growth and Development” as the theme of this year’s lecture. The President believed that it was a very apt and topical theme as he prepares to inaugurate a new Federal Executive Council to drive the implementation of his administration’s agenda for national renaissance with the support and cooperation of all patriots and stakeholders in the well-being of Nigeria. Buhari also seized the opportunity to congratulate Williams on his 96th birthday anniversary which was marked recently. He prayed God who has blessed Williams with such extraordinary longevity in the service of his nation and humanity, would grant him many more years of good health and worthy contributions to the development of his fatherland.

Imo govt, firm sign pact on fertiliser production Chris Njoku, OWERRI

I L-R: Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara; Governors, Idris Wada (Kogi) and Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto), during the maiden National Council of State meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Aregbesola plans to reduce workers’ salary, says PDP •Our reforms beyond your comprehension –Govt

Boladale Bamigbola, OSOGBO

eoples Democratic Party, PDP in Osun State yesterday alleged that the Governor Rauf Aregbesola intends to reduce salaries of workers. The party in a statement issued in Osogbo by its spokesperson, Prince Diran Odeyemi, said memo notifying civil servants of a new pay regime that will see them forfeiting all allowances their colleagues in other states are enjoying, have already been circulated. Odeyemi said in less than three years, the administration of Aregbesola has tinkered with the set-up of agencies overseeing primary and secondary education in the state. But the government, in a statement issued by Semiu

Okanlawon, the director bureau of communications and strategy, dismissed the opposition party’s allegation. The PDP said memo informing workers of the forfeiture of their allowances was signed by Permanent Secretary in the office of the Head of Service, Mr Sunday Olajide, stating that the allowances include 27.5 per cent peculiar allowance for teachers, 25 per cent-35 per cent for other categories of workers. It also said the new policy will see workers with degrees in education being transferred to relevant education offices, while education agencies like Teachers Establishment and Pension Office, TEPO, are to be reviewed. Under the new arrangement, there will be Teachers Establishment Office

and Education Assessment Office while Elementary and Middle Schools will be fully under SUBEB and receive their salaries from local government. Also in the memo, the PDP said the Aregbesola administration is introducing Electronic Fingerprint Capturing Machines that will be deployed in government offices and public schools to ensure workers are punctual, regular at their duty post. It added that on assuming mantle of leadership, Aregbesola introduced TEPO to replace Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM, put in place by the previous administrations. But Okanlawon, in his reply to PDP, said the state government was just putting in place survival strategy in the face of

dwindling resources. He said: “We are not surprised that PDP is deliberately painting in bad light all the well-thought out survival strategies of the current administration in the face of the mounting global economic meltdown which is affecting all facets of national life. “Without any doubt, the growing popular opinion now is that governments at all levels must look inward, review their operations and streamline their activities if they want to continue to maintain the welfare of their people. “Interestingly, there is no single reform and belttightening measures that Governor Aregbesola and his government officials have not laid bare on the table before the workers and other stakeholders.

mo State government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with a foreign company, CCV Hi-Tech Company Ltd, for the production of fertiliser in line with the government’s desire to industrialise the state. Secretary to the Government of Imo State, Sir Jude Ejiogu who represented the state government during the signing of the MoU in his Cabinet Office, along Sam Mbakwe Road, Owerri, advised the company not to disappoint in the bid to remain good business partners with government. Ejiogu expressed optimism that when the factory commences operation it would alleviate the sufferings of Imo farmers by providing fertiliser for them at

reduced cost and also create employment opportunities for the teeming youths in the state. He said the factory which would be sited at Imo Industrial Park, Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area of the state, is expected to produce 500 metric tonnes of fertiliser every year, and appealed to the host community to support the idea. Speaking on behalf of the company, Mr. Nguyem Kim Toaoa expressed happiness for the understanding and assured that operation would commence in the next six months. He commended state government efforts to industrialise the state, saying his company would do everything possible to uphold its business image, and appealed to the people for their support.

PUBLIC NOTICE LOSS OF DEED OF SUB-LEASE The Administrators of the Estate of Chief Samuel Layiwola Durosaro hereby notify the general public of the loss of the original title document in respect of the property situated at 8A & 8B, Wura Esan Close, off Adeniyi Jones Avenue, Ikeja. All efforts to retrieve the title document from United Bank of Africa Plc., have proven abortive, Registrar of Title, Lagos State to take note. Signed: P. O. GBEGBAJE, Solicitors to the Estate of Chief S. L. Durosaro

South West

Give loans to private educational institutions, VC urges FG • Oyedepo urges new students on positive impact Saidat Alausa

ice-Chancellor, Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun State, Prof. Isaac Adeyemi, yesterday urged the Federal Government to provide single digit interest loans to private educational institutions to enable them thrive. He spoke at a news briefing on the activities and programmes lined up for the 10th anniversary and 7th convocation ceremony of the institution in Ota. According to him, the availability of loans for the institutions at a single digit would help to boost human capital development as well as development of infrastructure. Adeyemi said tcapital flight often recorded when students travel to other countries to study would also reduce. He further said there was the need for private institutions to collaborate with

their public counterparts since only government owned institutions have access to Tertiary Education Trust Fund grants for research and development. Adeyemi, however, said lack of funds had not affected the university’s standard. 321 students would be graduating in the 2013/2014 session with 21 bagging First Class,135, Second Class; 134, Second Class Lower while 51 had Third Class. Meanwhile, Chancellor, Covenant University, also in Ota, Ogun State, Bishop David Oyedepo has advised newly admitted students of Post Graduate Studies to make impacts and not just work to earn their degree. This was disclosed yesterday during the 13th Founder’s Day celebration of the institution and commissioning of PG halls in the school. Dr. Oyedepo also urged the newly admitted students to work hard and do more of research that would better their lives.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

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Disu: Suspected killers lose bid to stop police Wale Igbintade

Lagos High Court presided over by Justice Raliat Adebiyi yesterday dismissed a fundamental human rights application filed by community leaders of Okunraye in Ibeju Lekki area of Lagos State, seeking to stop the police from further arrest and detention of its members over the murder of Managing Director of Lekki Trade Zone, LFTZ, Limited Mr. Tajudeen Disu. Other respondents in the suit are Nigerian Army, Department of State Service, DSS, Special Anti-Robbery Squad, The Dangote Group and Ibeju Lekki Local Government, The motion ex-parte,

filed by the applicants through their lawyer Akinlabi Apara, sought an order directing the respondents to release them unconditionally from custody and an order declaring their arrest and continue detention as wrongful and a sharp contravention of their fundamental human rights enshrined in Chapter 4 of the Constitution and Article 23 (1) (4) (5) (6) (7) , 12 (1) and 14 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Right (Ratification and Enforcement) Act, 2004. They also want a declaration that the invasion of their community on October 12, 2015 and their subsequent arrest constituted a threat to life, freedom, and private and family life. They further want a

perpetual injunction restraining the respondents whether by themselves, agents, servants, privies or any other person acting on their behalf from arresting, detaining, harassing and invading Okunraye community or otherwise violating their fundamental human rights. The lawyer, while expressing the need to grant the application, informed the court that the applicants have been forcefully ejected from their homes and livelihoods and that they have been deprived of their rights. He said the application is supported with a 38 paragraph affidavit and are relying on all the averrement. Apara, also informed

the court that as a matter of fact, those who are not members of the community have been charged before the court randomly, adding that as at Tuesday about 25 people were arrested by the police. He therefore urged the court to grant the application. However, Justice Adebiyi, while ruling on the application, dismissed the entire prayers sort for by the applicant except the one seeking to serve all respondents in the suit. The judge said granting such application will lead to breakdown of law and order. The case has been adjourned to November 10, for hearing of all pending applications in the suit.

Ijesa in Diaspora backs Osun’s ministerial nominee Boladale Bamigbola Osogbo

omination of Prof. Isaac Adewole as a minister, yesterday got the backing of the international body of all Ijesa indigenes, the Ijesa People in the Diaspora, IPID. The group dispelled insinuations that the ministerial nominee is not an indigene of the state, saying he was born and bred in Ilesa. Chairman of IPID Board of Trustees, Chief Bobaseye Akinyemi Fasakin, in a statement made available to newsmen in Osogbo, said Adewole is a full blooded

Ijesa man. Fasakin said it was unfair to have referred to a “worthy and a well-known ijesa indigene who has done so much for the ijesaland” as an Ekiti indigene in the name of politics. Fasakin noted that the fact that Adewole’s father sojourn in Ekiti State has not turned him to an Ekiti indigene, warning that “blackmailers” should desist from attacking him. He challenged those opposing his nomination to go to the University of Ibadan to see “his unprecedented development as the Vice Chancellor and his effort in developing Osun indigene.”

Peace returns to Ibadan community after three days of fighting Kemi Olaitan Ibadan

alm has returned to Omi Adio in Ido Local Government area of Oyo State after three day fracas between members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, and members of Tippers Association. It would be recalled that the riot which started on

Sunday night during a party at Omi Adio motor garage left about fifteen people severely injured. The riot was still continuing till Monday night, leaving about 10 vehicles travelling along the IbadanAbeokuta road damaged. Many traders and shop owners took advantage of the peaceful atmosphere to display their wares after days of fear and despair in the town.

L-R: National Secretary, Fisheries Society of Nigeria, Mr. Paul Akinbobola; National Treasurer/Acting State Treasurer, Lagos State, Mrs. Justina Balogun; State General Secretary, Busari Akinloye; 1st Vice National President, Dr. Mabel Yarhere; Chairman, Lagos State, Mr. Olatunji Giwa and State Vice Chairman, Mr. Abiodun Ogunbona, during the state annual general meeting of the society in Lagos, yesterday.

Matthew Irinoye

Lagos High Court, yesterday adjourned the N150bn libel suit filed by former Governor of the state, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, against Daar Communications plc, owners of Africa Independent Television, AIT, till November 16. Justice Iyabo Akinkugbe, made the decision to enable the parties exhaust the option of settlement in a pretrial conference.

N150bn suit: Court adjourns till November 16 over pre-trial conference It would be recalled that, Tinubu, also the National Leader of All Progressives Congress, APC, had instituted the N150bn suit against AIT for allegedly peddling false accusations against his person in a documentary titled: “Lion of Bourdilion.” The ex-governor said the documentary was politically sponsored to tarnish his reputation in the eye of

the public. During last hearing of the matter on September 30, Justice Akinkugbe adjourned till yesterday for further directives. Earlier on April 1, the judge had granted an interlocutory injunction restraining AIT from further airing the documentary, pending the determination of the libel suit. However, during yes-

terday’s proceeding, counsel to Tinubu, Mr. Ayo Adesanmi, informed the court that both parties had exchanged pretrial conference forms. Justice Akinkugbe therefore referred the parties to the Case Management Conference, CMC, adding that if both sides still insist on not settling during the conference, the trial would continue.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, October 22, 2015

A three storey building which collapsed on 87 Odunfa Street, Lagos Island, trapping many with few rescued yesterday. PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

Broad Street Diary

Thursday, October 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Lagos Island: One collapsed building too many ...as six cheat death in another building collapse

t least five people including an elderly woman in her eighties narrowly escaped death by the whiskers in Lagos on Wednesday when a three storey building collapsed at Swamp Street, Off Odunfa Street in Lagos Island. Residents who live on the street said they trooped out en masse to team up with government agencies for the rescue operation , explaining that the building popularly known as ‘ civilian barrack’ caved in at about 9,00 am , saying some of the occupants of the building, particularly those on the third floor were lucky to have escaped from the building. Broad Street Diary Correspondent (BSD) who was at the scene of the unfortunate incident gathered from the eyewitnesses that the Three-Storey building which collapsed had been penciled down for demolition exactly today that it finally collapsed. “The building has been earmarked for demolition exactly today going by the notice pasted on the wall of the building by the Lagos State Government” an eyewitness said. Unfortunately, that is medicine after death as the worst had occurred leaving some lucky people to be alive among the residents of the collapsed structure counting their loses, while the hapless ones were still trapped under the rubbles shouting for help as at the time of filing this report. However, the timely response of residents of the area and intervention of government agencies like the Federal Fire Service, the police, the civil defense among others who responded on time to put the situation under control helped the situation. According to Seyi Bola, “ We were standing outside our house and many other people were outside too and all of a sudden we heard sound as big object fell and people started running here and there and we looked towards civilian barracks direction and discovered it was the building that collapsed. “If you look at the building the government had issued warnings on the building before the building collapsed and warned the owners and people living there to leave, but they refused. Broad Street Diary observed that four were rescued and as of the time of filling this report rescues operations was still ongoing as two excavators were being used to create holes between the slabs, to create easy access for trapped persons to get out of the rubbles. The elderly woman who was brought out from the rubbles alive

A three storey building which collapsed on 87 Odunfa Street, Lagos Island, trapping many with few rescued yesterday.

PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

was carried on a stretcher, with an oxygen mask placed on her mouth and nostrils before she was conveyed to a standby Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS) to Sura Health Centre which is located on the Lagos Island. As of the time of filling this report a combined team of Police, Army, Lagos State Building Control Agency (LSBCA), Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), federal and state fire service and Lagos Safety Commission were on ground to manage the situation. The General Manager LSBCA, Shola Aderigbebe, told journalists that the building was marked for integrity test and 14 days ultimatum served the residents, saying lack of compliance by residents on safety directives caused the eventual collapse. “We have been dealing with all distress buildings, but it is pathetic that residents do not yield to warnings. For this building, we have served them 14 days ultimatum. “The ultimatum has expired before today. We asked them to conduct Structural Stability Test (SST) and they agreed. We were still waiting for them to conduct the test before the building collapsed. Also speaking on the collapse, the General Manager Lagos State

Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) Mr. Michael Akindele, said the four persons earlier rescued sustained minor injuries and were taken to Lagos Island General Hospital. According to him, they have not been able to ascertain the number of occupants in the building, saying it is difficult to confirm whether or not, people were still in the rubble. Akindele said, “We cannot say if people are trapped or not because we have not gotten to ground zero. But so far, five persons have been rescued and were are still working. All agencies responded in good time and we are doing everything possible to ensure lives and properties are saved.” Also speaking to Broad Street Diary, BSD, on the incident, the Zonal Commander, Federal Fire Service, Mr. Oduyelu Olumuyiwa, said two people had been rescued while effort was still underway to find more likely survivors. “So far, two people have been rescued and rushed to an undisclosed hospital while we are still searching for likely victims who could still be trapped under the rubble.” He attributed the unfortunate incident to the use of sub-standard materials being used by building developers to erect structures on the Island. “Let me say here that the unprofessional and shoddy manner

with which some so called Land developers erect structures on Lagos Island often leaves much to be desired. These people are in business to make money irrespective of the minimum safety standard required which is a sinequanon for any given structure to be erected. But, what is the obtainable? highly synthetic building materials for structures of this magnitude thereby jeopardizing the lives and property of the people”. “I think agencies saddled with the responsibility of ensuring minimum standard of any products and materials like the standard organisation of Nigeria should rise up to this occasion by doing more to adopt more stringent measures against culpable importers and manufacturers of fake and sub- standard building materials in the country. “You need to see the kind of materials used in erecting this collapsed structure they are highly sub-standard why will this kind of situation not occur? “Before a standard structure is put in place, there must be building Engineers, Architects Quantity Surveyors and all the professionals involved in building construction before construction takes place. “Note that before any building collapses it must speak a language which only the professionals will understand. “For instance, look at the build-

ing behind us here, it is just a disaster waiting to happen because it is already bending and given the nature of the soil, which is a marshy one,very few landlords on this Island, could afford putting up a standard structure in place in this area because it involves a lot of capital. “Sadly developers do not engage these people and government agencies that are expected to enforce compliance have not been really up and doing in this regard. On why the Fire service men were involved in the rescue operation since there was no fire outbreak, Oduyelu responded that their operation was not limited to putting out fire, alone but much more prevention of fire outbreak. “Our operation is not limited to putting out fire alone. We equally engage in activities such as prevention of fire outbreak just as we are doing here now and to render humanitarian assistance as occasion demands in times like this. Another eye witness said “we heard the sound of the collapsed building and I had to rush out. “We had to mobilise so many rescue officials to come and assist. The LASEMA, State Red Cross, Area Commander of the Police and Fire Brigade, were all contacted”, he said. –Omoju Busayo and Francis Suberu

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Impact positively on Nigeria, Jega, Babalola charge graduates Abiodun Nejo Ado-Ekiti

raduates of Nigerian universities and other tertiary institutions have been urged to impact positively on the country’s development through their conduct and action. Former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof Attahiru Jega and the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, ABUAD, Aare Afe Babalola, said having been certified sound in character and learning, the graduates should bring such to bear in national development. Jega and Babalola spoke yesterday at ABUAD during the institution’s third convocation ceremony where bachelor’s degrees were conferred on 739 fresh graduates and honorary degrees on four eminent personalities. A graduate of Accountancy, Oghenekowho Money, led the pack of 65 students who made First Class; 339 others bagged Second Class Upper Division, 258 picked second Class Lower Division and 74 were Third Class degree holders. The honorary degrees were conferred on Jega (Doctor of Public Administration); Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev Matthew Kukah (Doctor of Letters); rtd Justice Emmanuel Ayoola (Doctor of Law); and Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi (Doctor of Letters). Among dignitaries at the event were Ekiti State governor; the Olugbo of Ugbo, Oba Obateru Akinruntan; Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe; Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Rev Felix Ajakaye; and House of Representative member, Mike Omogbehin. Jega, who said he was proud to be an alumnus of ABUAD, urged the federal and state governments to emulate the institution’s innovation of education with learning and character to help the future of the country. The former INEC boss said: “Nigeria’s vision in education is gradually being achieved through ABUAD. There is need to set a standard for the growth of education in this country.’’ Ekiti governor praised

South West

Thursday, October 22, 2015

the ABUAD founder for the innovation and vision that made him establish a university targeted at sharpening the minds of future leaders for better governance and value re-orientation. He said there was no alternative to holistic education that would not only impact knowledge, but also imbue graduates with character to make them make desirable changes in the system. The governor said: “Education is more about life than wealth. Aside government, Afe Babalola is the largest employer of labour in Ekiti and that was why my government wants to build an airstrip in AdoEkiti that would become a full-fledged airport later to help in the expansion of this university. I am committed to this project and there is no going back on that.” The governor promised to continue to create enabling environment for all academic environment in the state to thrive, as he appealed to well-meaning indigenes to emulate the patriotism displayed by the ABUAD founder. Vice Chancellor of ABUAD, Professor Michael Ajisafe, said the students, equipped with academic standard and as well entrepreneurial and leadership skills, were spurred to excel by the quality of instruction, cond ucive environment and necessary encouragement provided by the school authorities. According to him, the graduating students are from College of Social and Management Sciences; College of Medicine and Health Sciences (Basic Sciences); College of Law; and College of Engineering.

Lagos donates N150m to IDPs in Adamawa, Borno, Yobe

agos State government yesterday donated N50 million each to the three North Eastern states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe to cater for Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs. Presenting the cheques to the three states in the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa after the Council of State meeting,

Governor Akinwunmi Ambode said the emergence of Boko Haram and its devastating activities is a major challenge facing the country. Ambode said at the justconcluded 21st National Economic Summit in Abuja, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF presented heartrending, graphic report

of the extent of damage and social trauma brought about by insurgency in the region. He said the donation was a demonstration of the commitment Lagos has towards bringing succour to thousands of IDPs. Ambode therefore called on all Nigerians including corporate organisations and other public-spirited

individuals to reach out in order to alleviate the pains of those affected by insurgency. Responding on behalf of the benefitting states, Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State expressed appreciation to Ambode and its people for the donation. He assured the Lagos governor that the funds would be judiciously used.

Participants during the meeting of Fulani herdsmen with farmers and stakeholders in Oke-Ogun and other areas of Oyo State, in Ibadan, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

10 injured in Ondo drivers’ clash Ojo Oyewamide Akure

o fewer than 10 people were injured yesterday in a bloody clash among members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo state. An attempt by a faction to take over the leader-

ship of the union was said to have caused the clash, disrupting commercial activities for hours. Eyewitnesses said trouble started when a man identified as Jungunnu declared himself the new chairman of the union. They added that Jungunnu moved round the town with some commercial motorcycle riders, telling residents he was

Shadow in The Mirror for presentation book, Shadows in The Mirror: The many faces of Depression, will be launched tomorrow at Lagoon Restaurant on Victoria Island, Lagos. Written by London-based management consultant, Dr. Vivian Ikem, a Ph.D holder in engineering from the Imperial College, London, the book is inspired by his personal encounter with depression as a result

of which he decided to raise awareness for the condition and to help others. Former Lagos State governor, Bola Tinubu, is the chief presenter of the book, while chairman of the occasion is President of the Nigerian Association of Psychiatrists, Prof. J.D. Adeyemi. A statement by the author described depression as “a serious condition often belittled.”

It added: “The World Health Organisation, WHO, has listed depression as the second leading cause of death and disability by 2020 only after ischemic heart disease (also known as coronary artery disease). “It is also a big health concern for low-medium income countries like Nigeria where as many as 1 in 5 people suffer mental health issues. “Yet Nigerians hardly

the new NURTW chairman in the council. The self-declared chairman was said to have led his boys to the Akure car park and attacked the union leaders around. The feuding members shot sporadically in the air, and attacked one another with cutlasses and other dangerous weapons. Residents and traders around First Molac hotel

talk about mental health, and many think of depression simply as sadness, weakness, weak faith, something that is demoninflicted or influenced by black magic, something to be ashamed of, or as an issue specific to western communities. “Sadly this ignorance is costly for many, and people are suffering in silence with many cases ending tragically.”

area and Ehinogbe street where the NURTW members clashed, hurriedly closed shop for the day. The embattled chairman, Kolade Jasper, said he had not received any letter from the NURTW national leaders that the local chapters should be dissolved. Jasper said the leader of the group, who wanted to forcefully take over from him, was not a member of NURTW. He therefore urged the state government to intervene so the crisis would not spread to other parts of the state. Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Femi Joseph, confirmed the incident, saying the police is on top of the situation. Joseph, who appealed to the feuding parties to maintain peace, said no local chapter of the union had been dissolved in the state.

South East

Thursday, October 22, 2015

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Ofala 2015: Glo rewards Onitsha Age Grades

he Next Generation Network and main sponsor of the annual Ofala Festival, Globacom, has rewarded handsomely all the top three winners in the age-grade competitions of the Ofala 2015 celebrations. The cash rewards were handed over to the representatives of the age grades at a colourful royal banquet organised by the company in honour of Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, at Mulumba Place, Onitsha. Among the various age grades rewarded were Aghaedo age-grade which came third in the age group of 50 years and below; while Ifechukwulu age group and Ani Amaka age group came second and first respectively. The best carnival float was won by Agbalanze, while the second and third positions went to Otu-Odu and Ichie respectively. In the age grade of 50-60 years, Nwanuebife came first while the second and third positions went to Anyibuofo and Ado Amaka respectively. Ife Nkili came first in the age grade of 60 years and above, second was Officer age grade while Nkolika age group came third. The Onitsha monarch commended Globacom for raising the profile of the festival, saying the partnership with the telecoms operator five years ago had attracted significant growth to the festival in scope and content. Achebe added that the relationship between Globacom and the Ofala Festival Organising Committee had been a worthwhile venture.

He specifically expressed gratitude to the Globacom chairman, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr., whom he described as “a man with uncommon passion for anything he believes in.” Earlier, while delivering Globacom’s welcome remarks at the banquet, Mr. Augustine Mamuro, the company’s National Sales Coordinator, South-South, said the banquet was organised to appreciate Achebe for giving Globacom the opportunity to make its modest contribution to the improvement of Ofala Festival. According to Mamuro, “Today’s banquet is a testimony to what we intend to do in the years to come as we jointly project this epic celebration. We have in our own modest way decided to expand the scope of the banquet by enhancing the side attractions: music, comedy and dance, all in a bid to further demonstrate how much we value and appreciate this relationship.” He stated that Achebe’s time-honoured industry and hospitality “which in themselves epitomise the essentials of the Onitsha people have attracted many developmental initiatives to Onitsha and greatly transformed the city, making it the commercial nerve centre of the South East geopolitical zone.” The trio of Patience Ozokwu (Mama G), John Okafor (Mr. Ibu) and Chief Chewetalu Agwu, all Glo Ambassadors, the titan of the Masquerade TV series, Mr. Okpala (Chief Zebrudayah alias 430), were on hand to add side attractions to the dinner.

L-R: Globacom National Sales Coordinator, South-South, Mr. Augustine Mamuro; Lolo of Obi of Onitsha, Igwenwanyi Ngozi Achebe; Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe and Agbogidi and Glo Business Director, Enugu State, Mr. Abidemi Agbaje, at Ofala commemorative royal banquet organised in honour of the Agbogidi at the Mulumba Place, Onitsha, recently.

S’East governors against Biafra agitation —Okorocha • Igbo are in support —MASSOB

Chris Njoku Owerri

overnor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State yesterday said the reported violent protests in some state capitals including those of Rivers, Anambra and Delta in the name of Biafra, does not in any way have the support of the governors and leaders of the South-East geopolitical zone. But the Movement for Actualisation of Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB led by former Director of Information, Chief Uche Madu, disagreed with the governor, saying none of the Igbo governors would deny support for the strug-

gle for the actualisation of Biafra. He said all were in support of the protests as they were gestures in objection of ills suffered by Ndigbo. The reported protests in the state capitals which turned violent were said to have been carried out over Radio Biafra and the arrest of its director, Mazi Nnmadi Kalu, by security agents. Okorocha, who is chairman of APC Governors’ Forum, said the ugly development was highly regrettable especially when it was clear that such violent protests in the name of Biafra would not add any value to the development and progress of the South-East and its people.

Cleric advocates prayers for Nigeria, leaders Victor Udoh

o rid Nigeria of its socio-economic and political woes, Rev Emmanuel Agwu of Behold He Cometh Pentecostal Church, BHCPC, has canvassed the use of prayers as a vital ingredient to national peace, unity and growth. Calling on the church in a sermon from John 11 titled ‘Luo (Greek for loose or release) to rise up to the challenge of its role as nation builders, the BHCPC’s

General Overseer said Nigeria and other countries, including the United States of America, the most powerful nation in the world, need prayers to handle their problems. “We need to help our country with prayers, even the leaders too because behind every throne is a demon. But when we have at least 50 (committed) pastors, we’ll pray our country out,” he told newsmen. “So pray with me for our great nation,” he pleaded with Nigerians.

On tackling insurgency and other violent attacks in Nigeria, the man of God stressed that “the problems could have been more” but for the efforts of “few” people, and prayed God to sustain them “so Nigeria will grow and be like other great nations.” Prof Agwu, who believes in practical Christianity of faith with works, said Christians have been rendered powerless through betrayal of their identity, and enjoined them to prepare earnestly for the Lord’s second

coming. He also advocated a change of attitude by ministers or church leaders who pray or do God’s work only for money. He said: “Remember, it (the gift) was freely given...; there is a crown incorruptible awaiting the obedient.” “The vast majority of our churches are for money making; everything is not about money. Christianity is heaven on earth, hence it can never be of merchandise. Let’s get our acts right, and do the right thing.”

“The governors and leaders of the South-East condemn the protests, especially when they were carried out in the name of Biafra. If a section of the people in the South-East or even the entire people in the geo-political zone protest over the bad shape of federal roads in the area or protest over total negligence of the geopolitical zone, every governor and leader in the area would support that. But not to protest over an issue that is neither here nor there. “South-East is an integral part of Nigeria and the governors and leaders from the area believe so much in the unity of the country and would always work towards sustaining the unity. And as far as the governors and leaders of the South-East are concerned, those behind the campaign for Biafra have ulterior motive, which has nothing to do with corporate interest of Ndigbo in Nigeria,” he said. He said the concern of the governors and other South-East leaders is to get what is due Ndigbo in the country, adding that any other quest, especially for Biafra, is diversionary. The governor therefore called on those behind all the protests on the basis of Biafra to give peace a chance, regretting that some Igbo people could get

involved in a protest which end result would not benefit Ndigbo in any way, but could lead to killing some of them. He insisted that the unity of Nigeria is not negotiable, and the South-East people strongly believe in that unity and would work assiduously to ensure its sustenance. But, factional leader of MASSOB, Madu, said neither Okorocha nor any governor from South East, including those of Rivers and Delta states, could deny being Biafra. “All Igbo governors are Biafra. No Igbo man can deny that they are not in support of what we are doing. It is like Boko Haram, no Hausa governor will deny support for the sect.” He said it would be unfair for anybody to pretend not to know the injustice being meted on the Igbo. ‘‘Nobody would say he likes what is happening in Nigeria today including Governor Okorocha who desires to be president; the same injustice would deny him such ambition and we all know that Okorocha is not happy about this.” While condemning Chief Ralph Uwazuruike for disowning the Director of Radio Biafra, Mazi Kalu, he called for unconditional release of the director.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

The inability of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC to conclusively prosecute fraud cases against many ex-governors have often been blamed by the commission on a number of reasons, particularly the judiciary. Incidentally, the judiciary also washes its hands off the commission’s blames. In this report, GEORGE OJI, ROTIMI FADEYI, OMEZIA AJAYI, UBONG UKPONG and IWAMBE DOOSUUR examine some of the issues at stake.

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Politics

Corruption: Locating the delay in Ex-governors’ trial

xcept perhaps for the case of the former Governor of Delta State, James Ibori, there is hardly any other known instance whereby the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC have been able to conclusively end the trial of any ex governor in the country since the establishment of the commission in 2006. Indeed, even the incident case of Ibori, was very clear as to why and how EFCC rushed through the trial and returned a no case verdict against the former governor. Ibori, had played key financial role in the sponsorship and emergence of the late Musa Yar’Adua as the President of Nigeria. He badly needed to be let out of the hook of the allegations of financial mismanagement in office as the Governor of Delta State to position him then to take over from the then Vice President Goodluck Jonathan as the running mate to Yar’Adua before death struck. It was alleged that Ibori pulled all his contacts in Government then to secure his freedom. EFCC drew up 170count charges against the Delta State-born politician bordering on money laundering, including bribery of the commission with $15 million to influence his release. Curiously however, Ibori was able to pull his strings in Government and secured a no case verdict by an Asababased High Court. Ironically, relying on the same money laundering charges, the London Metropolitan Police secured a 13year conviction against the same former Governor who was let off the hook by the Nigerian judiciary. Besides Ibori, there are also a number of other cases by the EFCC against other former governors that have been undergoing trial for years across the nation’s courts. Some of these cases like the one against the former governor of Abia State have been on for over eight years and yet, it is difficult to put a finger on when such trials would come to an end. Other cases that have suffered similar fates include the one involving the former Governors of Imo, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, Taraba Jolly Nyame, Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Gombe State, Danjuma Goje, Kogi State Abubakar Audu, amongst others. If you ask the EFCC what is delaying these cases, the commission would not hesitate to point accusing fingers elsewhere. Often times, the commission would point at the judiciary and the judicial officers as yielding themselves to the machinations of the politicians to frustrate the trials. The judiciary on their own also often washes their hands off the blame, most times blaming the EFCC of sloppy prosecution. And so, the blame game goes on and on.

President Buhari’s anti corruption war

Buhari

Lamorde

The view has of late been canvassed that

Nigerian judicial system, by its very nature, the

constitutes a major hindrance to the war against corruption and other financial crimes in the country

It is worthy of note that the crimes all these former Governors are accused of were not committed under the watch of President Muhammadu Buhari. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, surely, may have anticipated that political office holders, especially the Governors would abuse their offices and so he attempted to put in place measures during his administration to checkmate and punish corrupt people. This drive saw the evolving of the EFCC and the ICPC, to serve as the anti-corruption frontline agencies to bring justice to corrupt people especially those in government. These agencies have surely not lived up to their calling, as they watch corruption thrive with impunity un-

der successive administrations of late President Umaru Yar’Adua and immediate past President Goodluck Jonathan. The manner with which corruption was enthroned in the past administration no doubt, gave an edge to President Buhari to ascend to power, given his acclaimed stand points against corruption and corrupt people. While canvassing for votes during the electioneering campaign, Buhari had assured that he would dealt a final blow on corruption in Nigeria, by ensuring that it dies never to rise again. Buhari has demonstrated this by empowering the anti-graft agencies to fight corruption, even though with criticisms of being selective and witch-hunting people in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. The EFCC has suddenly got a renewed strength and is now chasing after people alleged to be corrupt. Buhari seems to be ready to allow the anti-corruption institutions to do their works without blinking, which explains why people are calling on him to ensure that all these abandoned corruption cases are revived and justice served on the accused persons who are now walking the streets with pride.

Position of the judiciary on delay of corruption cases The view has of late been canvassed that the Nigerian judicial system, by its very nature, constitutes a major hindrance to the war against corruption and other financial crimes in the country. It is said that when corruption cases are taken to court, they experience all forms of applications that bring about delays in the cases. There are palpable loopholes in the system of administration of justice in the country, which are more often CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Politics

Thursday, October 22, 2015

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Corruption: Locating the delay in CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 than not explored by accused persons and their counsels to their advantage, thus leading to protracted trials. The chairperson of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibrahim Lamorde, admitted before the Senate Committee on Drugs, Narcotics and Financial Crimes when he appeared before it sometime ago that the judiciary had frustrated the EFCC’s efforts to arrest and put on trial the chief architects of crime because the judiciary act in concert with criminals and their defence lawyers by using legal processes to avoid prosecution or to delay trial. Lamorde illustrated how high profile criminals used the legal process to forestall their trial and prosecution. He said: “We have an example of a case we charged to court in 2006; for this very case, we have gone to the Supreme Court twice on just interlocutory applications. “They will file this, the judge will overrule them, they will go to the Court of Appeal and lose there, but they will still go to the Supreme Court. At the Supreme Court when they lost, they will be asked to go to the trial judge for the case to continue.” He explained that his organisation has adopted an unusual strategy to trap the shifty criminals. “Unfortunately,” he said, “these are people who have the resources to drag these cases indefinitely and perpetually. “The first thing we do now is that we try to recover and confiscate the assets of individuals that we are investigating because it is only when you deprive them of their resources that you will be able to force them to stand trial. Once they have access to their resources and assets, they will use it to continue to delay and drag some of these trial.” Some Lawyers however disagree with the view that the courts or judicial officers are to be blame for the delay in concluding court cases in Nigeria. An Abuja based Lawyer Paul Orshi said, “anyone with a sound understanding of the working of the law and the Nigerian legal system would easily agree that in most instances of prolonged trials, the judges’ hands seem somehow tied. “The Nigerian legal system is position in a way that the state must necessarily establish the guilt of an accused person by evidence independently and freely secured and may not by coercion prove its charge against an accused out of his own mouth”. The EFCC’s anti-corruption campaign is fast losing energy, concentration and public support. The achievement record of the agency has not given the public the confidence that the EFCC is moving in the right direction. Ever since it was established in 2003, the EFCC has stuck to its grand objectives as an indication of its commitment to the fight against corruption. However, the EFCC’s report card has remained appalling. For this reason, the EFCC is now widely regarded as a severely weakened anti-corruption commission that is profoundly bewildered about the direction to which it should go.

Trial of Orji Uzor Kalu The trial of Orji Uzor Kalu, former two terms Governor of Abia state, is one that is raising questions about the competence of EFCC, as it has become apparently unending. In fact, it would be correct to say that the trial was yet to begin because, since Kalu was arraigned and granted bail, one thing or the other had continued to stall his trial. The former governor, who left office in 2007, having served two terms since 1999, is facing trial over his alleged corruption and looting of Abia during the period he held sway as the chief executive of the state. Recently, some citizens have begun to raise questions to the effect that after nine years, the EFCC has not been able to dispense with Kalu’s case. Some groups in a joint statement signed by their leaders, Udoka Nnanna, Davidson Kalu, and Ezinwa Ukaogo, have lamented that the trial of the former governor has been unduly delayed, noting that it was high time justice was served on the matter.

Kalu

Ohakim

The EFCC’s anticorruption campaign

is fast losing energy, concentration and public

support.

The achievement

record of the agency has not given the public the confidence that the

EFCC is moving in the right direction

Shortly after leaving office in July 2007, EFCC arraigned Mr. Kalu before an Abuja High Court on a 10-count charge bordering on money laundering, official corruption, and diversion of public funds totaling over N5 billion. The case which is still in court has dragged with a very slow pace. His airline, Slok Air, also went under not long after the EFCC linked it to allegedly stolen Abia State funds. In 2010, Kalu was questioned by the American police after a female friend died in his U.S home. Three groups - NdiAbia League, Abia Youths Consultative Forum and Abia Peoples Congress - have jointly petitioned President Muhammadu Buhari to order the anti-graft agency to expedite action on Kalu’s case and bring his prosecution to its logical conclusion.

Trial of Ikedi Ohakim Former Imo state Governor, Ikedi Ohakim, was arrested by the EFCC over alleged corruption case involving money laundering.

Delay in cases are caused by The Slow dispensation of justice in the nation’s justice system meant to be the last hope of the common man is gradually becoming a norm. Most Nigerians are gradually losing hope with the trend where cases linger for a long period of time. An Abuja based Lawyer Mr. Merga Lennox Kachina in this interview with DOOSUUR IWAMBE examines some of the factors responsible for the slow dispensation of justice. What is responsible for delay in prosecuting of corrupt public officers? A lot of factors are responsible, on the one hand; it is the issue of prosecution itself. In most cases, the accused persons are arraigned in court even when the prosecution is still at the stage of investigation; or investigation not been properly done. That is why you see instances where prosecutions keep applying to amend and re-amend charges. On the other hand, even the court themselves sometimes will transfer a judge who has gone far in handling a particular case and once that is done, it affect proceedings because the new judge that is expected to take over will start afresh by studying the case file. Some cases have already reached advanced stage before the judge is transfer and in such cases the case will have to begin afresh. Do you think that corrupt rich politicians use stolen funds to delay trials?

The accused persons alleged to have corruptly enriched themselves have so much money that to secure a conviction against them is not an easy task. They go for the best lawyers in the land; they hire these lawyers who are very intelligent and they implore all manner of technicalities to frustrate the prosecution of those cases. They do it in so many ways; at the arraignment, they might raise objections to the competent of the charges, issues of Prima facie case against the accused person or no nexus between the charges and the accused person to warrant him standing trial, issues of Jurisdiction and so on. Even if they are overrule at that stage, they might still go ahead to the other stage of making a no case submission. For instance, if the person standing trial is accused of stealing public funds, they will say that the element that constitute theft were not established by the witnesses and then they make a no case submission. If all these facts are overruled, they go on Appeal and then bring motions to stay proceedings at the trial court. If

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Politics

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Ex-governors’ trial

A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted him bail, a day after remanding him over corruption charges. Ohakim was arrested by the EFCC on a Tuesday and was arraigned on a Wednesday. The former governor was ordered to deposit his passport with the court, and barred from travelling abroad as part of his bail conditions. Ohakim was accused of making a cash payment to the tune of $2, 290,000.00 (about N270,000,000.00) for the purchase of a property at Plot Number 1098 Cadastral Zone A04, Asokoro District, otherwise known as Number 60, Kwame Nkurumah Street, Asokoro in Abuja. The amount is above the threshold approved for an individual, going by the provisions of Section 1 of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2004. The former governor is also accused of deliberately neglecting to disclose all his assets in the declaration submitted to the EFCC. One of the three- count charges against him read, “That you, Ikedi Ohakim, on or about the January 26, 2013 in Abuja within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court, while under arrest for an offence under the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Establishment Act, 2004 knowingly failed to make a full disclosure of your assets by not declaring your ownership of the property known and described as Plot No. 1098 Cadastral Zone A04, Asokoro District- it is also known as No.60, Kwame Nkurumah Street, Asokoro, Abuja and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 27(3)(c) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Establishment Act, 2004 and punishable under the same section.” He pleaded not guilty to all the three charges and since he secured his bail nothing has been heard of the trial.

Abubakar Audu Former Governor Abubakar Audu of Kogi State is presently seeking re-election to the governorship seat of the state on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC in the gubernatorial election scheduled for November 21. However, Audu is facing allegations of corruption brought against him by EFCC. Specifically, the case against the former governor started on Monday March 18, 2013 when he was ar-

raigned alongside a former Director General of the Directorate of Rural Development in his administration, Alfa Ibn Mustapha before Justice A.O. Adeniyi of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja They were arraigned on a 36-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust and misappropriation of public funds to the tune of N10,965,837,040 Audu, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges in the case where he was alleged of misappropriating state’s funds while he was governor between 1999 and 2003. One of the charges read: “that you Prince Abubakar Audu and Alfa Ibn Mustapha between 2000 and 2002 at Abuja in the Abuja judicial division of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory while being the governor of Kogi state and Director General of Kogi State Directorate of Rural Development respectively, and in such capacities entrusted with dominion over certain property, to wit: an aggregated sum of N2,877, 487,690.88 meant for rural development in Kogi State committed criminal breach of trust in respect of the said sum which you falsely claim to be payment made to Aresanmi Technical Industries Limited in respect of the contract allegedly awarded Kogi State Directorate of Rural Development to the said Aresanmi Technical Industries Limited and you thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 315 of the Penal Code, CAP 532, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990”. Audu has described as “arrant nonsense,” the reports linking him with alleged missing state fund during his tenure as governor, saying the reports were the handiwork of the Peoples Democratic Party,PDP in the state.

Danjuma Goje Goje was governor of Gombe State between 2003 and 2011 and later became a Senator in the Upper legislative chamber of the National Assembly. Prior to this, he was Minister of State, Power and Steel from 1999-2001 under former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Goje and four others, were first arraigned in court on October 17, 2011 on conspiracy, fraud and money laundering charges for allegedly misappropriating N52 billion public fund. But Goje while speaking on the case said he was out of

multi-factors –Kachina

the motion is granted, the matter will not go on until the issues raised at the Appeal are determined; and these issues taken to the Appeal takes a long time, they could sometimes last for 2, 3 to 4 years. They could even go to the Supreme Court because all the prosecution is interested in is to frustrate the hearing and determination of the case. They don’t want the matter to be heard so they bring all manner of technicalities to frustrate the trail. What do you think the judiciary should do to curb the trend? The Judiciary too is very worried about this development. All the critical stakeholders in the administration of criminal justices are concern including even the Legislature. That is why the 7th National Assembly passed a law known as the administration of criminal Justice Act. The law has so many reforms aimed at reforming the administration of criminal justice act in the country by curtailing all the areas that lead to delay. The new act seeks to abolish all these issues of interlocutory applications, questioning of jurisdiction when an accused person is charged before the court. With this new act, if you raised an objection and you are overruled, you cannot go on appeal until after the determination of the case. The Judiciary itself has done a self soul searching by coming out with rules that will avoid all the unnecessary delays. Judges according to the new Act cannot grant more than two adjournment so as not to encourage lawyers seek unnecessary adjournment.

What is the role of the Anti graft agencies in ensuring a speedy trial? The Economic and Financial Crimes Commissions , EFCC and all the other anti corruption agencies responsible for combating crimes need to do better by training their operators on how to carry out thorough investigation so that by the time they investigate a case and it is brought to the court, they may have done a thorough investigation that can sustain a conviction in other to avoid seeking motions to amend and re-amend charges.

Kachina

Audu

the country when he learnt that the EFCC had declared him wanted, saying there was no justification for its action. According to him as a former governor who served the nation for eight years and Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he was ever ready to defend his actions at all time. “’The allegation of corruption against me cannot stand. All financial resources entrusted in my care as governor of Gombe State were judiciously used. The records are there for everybody to access.”, Goje said.

Jolly Nyame When former Governor of Taraba State, Reverend Jolly Nyame was arraigned on a 41-court charge in July 2007, he was alleged to have embezzled the sum of N1.3billion. During his trial Mr. Dennis Orkama Nev, a permanent secretary at the Taraba State government house, told the court how the former governor looted the state. The witness told the court how Nyame directed him to raise the sum of N100million being an amount proposed for the preparations of the visit of former President Olusegun Obasanjo to the state in 2006 and narrating all the events and transactions, Orkuma told the court how he used his discretion and raised three different memos for the former governor in which he requested for N323million, N27million and N42milllion respectively listing vehicle maintenance, overhaul of power generating sets, security arrangements, general facelift of the capital city (Jalingo), sanitation, civil works, souvenirs and honorarium as the purposes for which the money was to be used. Nev also told the court that upon the receipt of the three memos, Nyame approved release of the funds and ordered him to bring the monies to him in his office, an order he complied with and added that the funds were never used for the purposes for which they were approved. More so, part of the allegations against Nyame was that he collected N180million from USAB International Nigeria Limited, a kick back money from a N250million contract awarded to the company for the supply of stationeries to the state government between January and February 2005, while Nyame in response to the allegation of bribe via his statement said he approved the said contract and promised to refund whatever bribe given to him which in itself was an admission that the allegation against him were not entirely false and should normally have led to a faster trial of the case. It is surprising that after all these years, no verdict has been passed concerning the trial. It has been from one adjournment to the other. With the new administration in place that has shown commitment towards the fight against corruption, one hope that some of this corruption trials that have lingered will come to an end in a matter of months from now.

Politics

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Group tasks Ambode, commissioners on selflessness, hardwork Francis Suberu

socio-political group based in Lagos, the Asiwaju National Forum has hailed the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode for the appointment of seasoned politicians and technocrats into his cabinet, even as it tasked the commissioners to be dedicated and selfless. The group under the leadership of Mr. Seyi

Bamigbade said in a statement yesterday that Ambode’s commissioners comprise of seasoned politicians and technocrats who have succeeded in their life endeavours and have wealth of experience. The group particularly said it is happy with the appointment of TownPlanner Wasiu Anifowoshe as the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, adding that, his appointment is a round peg in a

round hole. “Town-planner Anifowoshe is a workaholic who always put the people first in whatever he does. He is also a politician of great repute. We have no doubts that he is a very good addition to the government of Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode,” the statement read. The group enjoined politicians to put the interest of the people above their personal interest; even as they urged the state government to make youth

empowerment and job creation the government’s main priority. Ambode had on Monday sworn in 23 Commissioners and 14 Special Advisers to work with him in steering the affairs of the state. It is believed that with the coming on board of the commissioners, the government of Mr. Ambode would be able to hit the ground running and be able to execute more speedily his programmes of action.

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Aregbesola plots to reduce workers’ salary, PDP alleges Ayo Esan

he Osun state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has decried what it called “plot to reduce salaries of workers in the state”. The party in a statement issued in Osogbo on Wednesday by its spokesperson, Prince Diran Odeyemi, said memo notifying civil servants of a new pay regime that will see them forfeiting all allowances their colleagues in other states are enjoying, have already been circulated. “We as a party have been consistent in our belief that Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has lost focus as he is totally confused of what is next to move the state forward” Prince Odeyemi said in less than three years, the administration of Mr. Rauf Aregbesola has tinkered with the set up of agencies overseeing primary and secondary edu-

cation in the state, saying such constant reversal of policies not only suggest lack of focus, but also indicate crass incompetence. The PDP said the memo informing workers of the forfeiture of their allowances was signed by the Permanent Secretary in the office of the Head of Service, Mr. Sunday Olajide, stating that the allowances include 27.5% peculiar allowance for teachers, 25%-35% for other categories of workers. It also said the new policy will see workers with degrees in education being transferred to relevant education offices, while education parastatals and agencies like Teachers Establishment and Pension Office, TEPO, are to be reviewed. Under the new arrangement, there will be Teachers Establishment Office and Education Assessment Office while Elementary and Middle Schools will be fully under SUBEB and receive their salaries from local governments.

DPC condemns Kaduna State gov’s death wish Ebere Ndukwu

L-R: Wife of the President, Hajia Aishat Buhari; wife of Vice President, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo and daughter of late Chief (Mrs.) HID Awolowo, Rev. Tola Oyediran, during a condolence visit to the family at Ikenne, Ogun State, yesterday.

Tribunal upholds Oyo APC lawmaker’s election Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

ational and State Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal in Oyo State, on Wednesday, upheld the election of a member of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Olusegun Olaleye of the All Progressives Congress, APC. The three-man tribunal in its verdict dismissed the petition filed by the candidate of the Accord party in the April 11, 2015 elections, Mr. Ayeni Temitayo Sunday, for lacking in merit.

It will be recalled that the Accord party candidate, had in his petition prayed the tribunal to nullify the election of Olaleye on the grounds that the election was characterized with irregularities and non-qualification of Olaleye to contest the election. Counsel to the petitioner, Barrister Abiodun Abdlerahim, indeed prayed the tribunal to invalidate the victory of Olaleye on the ground that he was not qualified to contest the election, stating that other grounds could be ignored.

But the tribunal in the judgment delivered by Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo, ruled that the petitioner failed woefully in proving the case beyond reasonable doubt and as such the election of Olaleye was valid. Speaking with journalists after the judgement, Olaleye described it as an affirmation of the mandate willingly and overwhelmingly given to him by the good people of the constituency. He also maintained that the triumph is a sign of independence of the judicial arm of government in the

country. “I dedicate my victory to God, my family, my constituents and finally the governor of Oyo State. The affirmation of my April, 11 election to the State House of Assembly is a confirmation that the people’s interest will continue to be protected with the help of the judiciary. “This will build my confidence in the people who stood by me in the time of distress, I mean my supporters and I promise to contribute more by empowering them.”

Bayelsa 2015: Past leaders lack capacity to think positively –Siasia Osahon Julius YENAGOA

he candidate for the Peoples Democratic Movement, PDM, in the December 5 gubernatorial poll in Bayelsa

State, Mr. Moses Siasia, on Wednesday blamed the underdevelopment in the state to the lack of good leaders in the state. He said past leaders of the state had failed woefully because they lacked

the capacity to think positively and bring about the much needed development the people of the state desired. Moses Siasia, who is the younger brother of the National under - 23

Coach, Samson Siasia, spoke in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital, during the unveiling of his agenda for the state as he seeks to be elected as governor on the platform of the PDM.

he Democratic People’s Congress, DPC has strongly condemned Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai’s outburst and death wish that aggrieved people of the state should go and commit suicide if they did not like his lopsided political appointments. Speaking to stakeholders at the 4th town hall meeting with Kaduna Central, Governor el-Rufai lambasted indigenes of the state who complained that his appointments were lopsided and did not reflect the interest of the three senatorial zones in tandem with the Federal Character principle as enshrined in the 1999 constitution. In his outburst, el-Rufai said he would not give appointment to persons that did not vote for him during the April governorship election and asked aggrieved citizens to go and commit suicide. You can go and climb Kufena Mountain and jump down

from there, the governor arrogantly said. In a statement made available to newsmen, DPC, national chairman, Rev. Olusegun Peters, said DPC condemned in strong terms executive recklessness, kindergarten leadership and infantile approach to governance. He said: “The era of impunity, autocracy and arrogance of power is over. The good people of Kaduna State deserve respect by their elected governor who rose to power on the winds of Muhammadu Buhari’s electoral fortunes. “As a mass movement, DPC abhors politics of bitterness, brigandage and suppression of political opponents. The el-Rufai’s death wish to the good people of Kaduna state is not the change the citizens voted in the last election. We warn this accidental governor to desist from insulting the sensibilities of Nigerians and take governance serious. He should know that he is the governor of Kaduna state and not a puppet governor of those who voted for him.

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Thursday, October 22, 2015

Nigerians and the question of intelligence CRITICAL STROKES

KAYODE

KETEFE

kketefe@nationalmirroronline.net 08032147720 (SMS only)

he differential rate of development and accomplishments among human beings has often spawned the question which of the human races is more intelligent or least intelligent. Conventional assumptions have often placed the Caucasian race at the zenith of this cerebral endowment, while others races have been assigned progressively lower notches in the intelligence scale with the Africans condemned to the lowest rung. Although a convincing empirical research that unequivocally settles the connection between race and intelligence is yet to be undertaken or announced, some putative anecdotal social researches, largely controversial, seem to have been confirming the conventional stereotypes. It will be recalled that the renowned geneticist and Nobel Laureate, James Dewey Watson, released a bombshell in 2007 by attributing to Africans low intellectual capacity borne of genetic inadequacies. Watson had been quoted as saying “I am inherently gloomy about the prospect of Africa, because

all our social policies are based on the fact that their intelligence is the same as ours – whereas all the testing says not really.” If this had been said by just any white man, it would simply have been dismissed as a ranting of a diseased mind, but Watson is a world acclaimed cell biologist, Nobel Laureate, a co-discoverer of the structure of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) in 1953 (With Francis Crick). A lot of people all over the world, including this writer, wrote articles in denunciation, describing Watson findings as having been fuelled by racism and bigotry. The core of my counter-argument then was that other races could have attained development for a number of reasons and that African backwardness was not traceable to any genetic dementia or intellectual inferiority, but was purely traceable to attitudinal intellectual complacency, or mental laxity. I still hold that theory, but I have started to feel progressively uncomfortable with it. How long are we going to lay claim to potential mental equality if we continue to do things the wrong way and other people continue to do theirs the right way? Would it not amount to self-delusion if we continuously keep failing on all the indices of wisdoms and nonetheless hold tenaciously to a theory that our actual performance does not matter? Looking at our society, our system could, in all honesty, not be said to have benefited much from quality thinking. Our educational system is in shambles; we cannot generate our own electricity, managing with a meager

I DON’T KNOW THE LAST TIME NIGERIA ANNOUNCED ANY BREAKTHROUGH IN ANY FIELD OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 5,500megawatts for a population 170 million, when even South Africa with a population of 48.8 million, generates more than 40,000 megawatts. We are the most profligate gas flaring nation in the world. Last year alone, Nigeria flared over 460 billion standard cubic feet of gas estimated at over $2 billion. A country like Netherlands flares none of her gas, that is to say she has zero percent rate of flaring! Fifty two years after independence, we cannot boast of a vibrant real sector, a fact which makes industrialisation a mirage. Majority of our graduates are graduating into unemployment, or in some cases criminality. Many Nigerians still kill one another almost on daily basis in the name of religion. Criminality with its attendant insecurity reigns with impunity. Yet, you would often see the ruling class going about in flowing robes of agbada or babaringa, as if nothing is amiss! I don’t know the last time Nigeria announced any breakthrough in any field of science and technology.

In matter of intelligence, are we in the same league with the Japanese, Chinese, South Koreans or Indians? Intelligence rating is not something you measure on the basis of sympathetic, humane sentiments; it has to be objectively based on overt behaviours. There was a time when the Japanese were seen as just small yellow-skinned backward people, but not so any longer. The whole world now pays tribute to Japanese technological wizardry. There was a time the Chinese were seen as overpopulated, underdeveloped humanity who specialised in production of sub-standards goods, and cheap imitation of other people’s technologies. But the story has changed today as the Chinese now rank among the forerunners in almost every field of human knowledge and accomplishments. When will our own transformation take place? Each time I pondered on our multifaceted problems I keep wondering if Watson had not been right after all! I don’t claim as of yet to know the perfect answer to the starting question “How intelligent are Nigerians?” But I know that such question is not just to be settled by mere opinion. Knowledge has no respect for colour, if we are really as smart as we claim let us move forward in concrete ways. If we keep lagging back, one hopes we will not one day apologise to Watson for deriding his postulation! Ketefe may be followed on twitter@ Ketesco

Nigeria’s membership of UN Security Council OKECHUKWU EMEH

he overwhelming necessity of effecting a comprehensive reform of the United Nations (UN) to make it more responsive to the challenges of the 21st century cannot be overemphasized. Apart from making the world body more proactive and convergence of global interests, such a reform has also become inevitable against the backdrop of new dynamics and realities of the post-cold war order. These include worrying developments that inform a new world disorder like the rapid rise in rampant nationalism (ethnic separatism, racism and xenophobia) and religious extremism and the attendant ghastly conflicts; the resurgence of terrorism; spread of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons know-how; illicit proliferation of small arms and light weapons; trans-national crimes (narcotic peddling, trade in contraband, currency counterfeiting, internet fraud, money laundering and trafficking in persons, endangered species, artifacts and antiquities). Other developments that represent a clear and present danger in the international system are unilateralism in international politics by certain major powers (America and Russia), inequities of globalisation and globalised economy, intense economic rivalries and trade wars that have replaced the ideological East-West tension and confrontation, polarisation between rich and poor countries and threatening monumental environmental catastrophe posed by climate change and the associated global warming. In the light of the sobering reality of such

LIKELY TO EMBOLDEN

NIGERIA IN HER CLAIM FOR A PERMANENT SEAT IN THE

UN SECURITY COUNCIL ARE HER ABUNDANT

NATURAL AND MATERIAL RESOURCES threats and challenges in the embattled postcold war world, Dr Erskine Childers and Sir Brian Unquhart have argued, in their thought-provoking study entitled ‘A World in Need of Leadership: Tomorrow’s United Nations, that “Only statesmanship and leadership of the highest order can guide the international community through the current period of anger and upheaval and rebuild a more peaceable and just world”. Reassuringly enough, the UN administration, especially under the former charismatic and clearsighted Secretary-General, Mr Kofi Annan, just as the present scribe, Mr Ban Ki-Moon has shown to be equal to the arduous task of stabilising the entropic international society that is marked by frequent chaos and disorder arising from sheer display of unbridled national interest and power politics. It would be recalled that part of the laudable measures Mr Annan had articulated in the grand proposal to reinvigorate the world body, as enunciated in a 62-page report entitled ‘In Larger Freedom’, is the enlargement of the membership of both the permanent and non-permanent seats of the Security Council, the only UN body responsible for

international security issues and whose decisions are binding on member states. Instructively, the only five permanent members of the council, which enjoy the influence and privileges of the veto power, are the United States, Britain, France, Russia and China. They are collectively known as the Permanent Five (P-5) or the Super Powers. It is noteworthy that since the articulation of that agenda for the expansion of the membership of the UN Security Council several years ago, countries like Germany, Japan, India, Brazil, Nigeria, South Africa and Egypt have put in claims for a seat in the Council. However, the justifications for Nigeria becoming a permanent member of this most powerful body of the UN are buoyed by geopolitical considerations and her national and international credentials. To begin with, Nigeria is the most populous black state on earth, with a population of more than 170 million people. In this regard, it is estimated that out of every five Africans in the world one is definitely a Nigerian. Considering this and the necessity for delicate balancing act in the UN Security Council, the country is worthy of representing the interests of the black race in the Council. Likely to embolden Nigeria in her claim for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council are her abundant natural and material resources. For example, the country is the sixth largest producer of crude oil in the world, which, for now, is the most prized and catalysed part of the global economy and one of the indices

of measuring international power, hence her major role in the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), an organisation which when it sneezes the whole world catches cold, as demonstrated during the energy crisis sparked by the Arab-Israeli war of 1973. At the international level, the exploits of Nigeria, which should be a crucial factor in her bid, could be observed from her pan-African nudging and commitments. Regarding this, it should be noted that successive political regimes in the country, from the administration of Alhaji Tafawa Balewa through that of General Murtala Mohammed/General Olusegun Obasanjo to the present government of President Muhammadu Buhari, have made pan-African solidarity and cooperation an unrenounceable goal. This was more explicit in the period between 1960s and 1980s, the era seen as the acme of the struggles for emancipation of states on the continent from colonialism. During that period, Nigeria played her role as a “Big Brother” by giving both moral and material support to guerilla movements fighting for national independence in Guinea-Bissau/ Cape Verde, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Angola and Namibia. To be continued Emeh, a social researcher, wrote from Wuse 2, Abuja via okemehjr@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 October 22, 2015

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

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

Elusive jobs for slain immigration job seekers’ relations

he ghost of the tragic Saturday, March 15, 2014 Nigeria Immigration Service’s (NIS) recruitment exercise, which claimed the lives of over 10 people and was trailed by heartless extortion of about N1000 from each of the applicants, which yielded millions of naira to the NIS and its cohorts, seems to be still haunting and hounding the nation. We recall that the NIS, going by reports, had only about 4,000 job openings; and had called for applications from job seekers through adverts. Over 500,000 desperate unemployed persons applied. Despite the huge harvest of extorted funds from the jobless, the NIS organised chaotic interviews for them in virtually all its chosen venues nationwide which, in the end, claimed the lives of between 11 and 18 persons in stampedes. Notwithstanding the loss of lives occasioned by the shoddy exercise; and grave allegations of corruption that trailed the recruitment drive, not one NIS official was brought to justice, to public knowledge. But to pacify the families of the dead and injured job seekers, former President Goodluck Jonathan promised automatic employment for three members of the family of each deceased applicant and all those injured during the stampedes. The then President had on Wednesday, March 26, 2014, announced the setting up of a com-

mittee to carry out the exercise within 12-weeks. But over 13 weeks after the expiration of the committee’s time-frame, the president’s ‘automatic’ job offers were still hanging. Reports, instead, had it that the presidential job promise had given birth to a ‘wound racket’; as scores of dishonest job-seekers laid siege to the National Hospital, Abuja in their attempt to be listed among those wounded in the NIS recruitment stampede shortly after the Presidency announced automatic employment as compensation for the relations of the dead and the wounded. Nevertheless, about 176 members of the immediate family members of the dead were given appointment letters which were reversed almost immediately, purportedly because of the lack of provision for their salaries. Protest by the disappointed ‘employees’ to the National Assembly prompted the House of Representatives to conduct a public hearing on the matter; and the lawmakers’ insistence that “the 176 people with letters of appointment deserve employment based on the presidential directive; and it will be in our collective interest… everything should be done to restore their appointments”. The contempt with which the hierarchs of the Ministry of Interior treated the directive of ex-President Jonathan buttressed not just the grave extent of in-

October 22, 1981 The United States Federal Labor Relations Authority voted to decertify the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO) for its strike the previous August. The PATCO was a US trade union that operated from 1968 until its decertification in 1981; following a strike that was broken by the Reagan Administration, a measure described as ‘one of the most important events in late 20th century US labor history’.

IT IS OBVIOUS THAT THE BENEFICIARIES OF THE PRESIDENTIAL JOB OFFER MAY WAIT FOR ETERNITY IF THE LAWMAKERS FAIL TO MOUNT INTENSE PRESSURE ON THEM TO DO THE NEEDFUL discipline now entrenched in the nation’s public service, but how conscienceless and self-serving the operators of the system have become. Indeed, it took the House’s Majority and Minority Leaders, Femi Gbajabiamila and Leo Ogor, in that order, who presided over the public hearing, to lecture the likes of the Permanent Secretary in the Interior Ministry, Abubakar Magaji; Deputy Comptroller of Immigration, Henry Malgwi, who represented the Comptroller-General; and A. A. Ibrahim, Secretary of Board, Fire, Immigration and Civil Defence services, on how to go about their jobs. “If you collect money from students and fill a stadium, where was the salary going to come from in the first instance? Salaries are not given by the President; there is something like supplementary budget which the National Assembly has power to approve. I advise you effect these

ON THIS DAY

October 22, 1999 Maurice Papon, an official in the Vichy France government during World War II, was jailed for crimes against humanity. Papon (September 3, 1910 – February 17, 2007) was a French civil servant. In 1998, he was convicted of crimes against humanity for his participation in the deportation of more than 1,600 Jews to concentration camps during World War II when he was Secretary-General for police in Bordeaux.

people’s employment in arrears and put their salaries in the supplementary budget”, Gbajabiamila told them, for instance. We salute the House of Representatives for exposing the unconscionable conduct, insubordination, indiscipline, sheer wickedness, ineptitude and ignorance trailing public service delivery in the land through its interventionist public hearing on the plight of the distressed 176 members of the immediate families of the dead NIS job seekers. From the lacklustre response, feigned or veiled ignorance of the Interior Ministry officials at the hearing, however, it is obvious that the beneficiaries of the presidential job offer may wait for eternity if the lawmakers fail to mount intense pressure on them to do the needful. Besides, the rhetoric that the Interior Ministry and NIS are ignorant of the location of the monies extorted from job seekers who partook in the ill-fated NIS interview of last year is unacceptable. Not being in office when the heist was perpetrated is not enough reason to know nothing about the ill-gotten fund, since there is continuity in government. The lawmakers should dig deeper in search of the funds. Perhaps by so doing, the visible and unseen hands behind the dubious and bloody NIS interview would be tracked and brought to justice.

October 22, 2014 Michael Zehaf-Bibeau attacked the Parliament of Canada in Ottawa, Canada, killing a soldier and injuring three other people. The shootings occurred at Parliament Hill in Ottawa. At the Canadian National War Memorial, Zehaf-Bibeau fatally shot Corporal Nathan Cirillo, a Canadian soldier on ceremonial sentry duty. He then entered the nearby Centre Block parliament building, where lawmakers were attending caucuses.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

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Education Today

IN CONJUNCTION WITH

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

WAEC worries over exam malpractice Tasks govt, media on fight against menace

Tunbosun Ogundare

t is painful to hear that there is increase in examination malpractice by students from different parts of the world. But more pathetic is the fact that the Nigerian situation is the worst among the five West African countries that make up the West African Examination Council, WAEC, the body that conducts terminal examinations for the senior secondary school students in the sub-region. Just penultimate week, the Head of Nigeria’s National Office of the council, Mr. Charles Eguridu raised an alarm over the grave consequences of the ignoble act perpetrated by candidates in its exams and other public examinations on the nation’s educational system and economy by extension. Describing the menace as one of the canker worms that have eaten deep into the fabrics of the Nigerian society, Eguridu noted that the practice is cut across all levels of the nation’s education system, which comprise primary, secondary and tertiary. According to him, “it is disheartening that despite consistent condemnation of exam malpractice in the country, especially by the council and other well-meaning stakeholders as well as various measures being put in place to arrest the social ill, it continues unabated.” Examination malpractice, also known as cheating is the illegal action that students take during their examinations to try to make good grades by cutting corners. At times, they do this with the assistance of their parents, teachers, schools or invigilators, the condition that make the situation degenerated. For examples, at this year’s May/June Senior Secondary School Certificate Examinations (SSSCE) conducted by WAEC, out of the total 1,593,442 candidates

Students in exam hall. (Inset) Eguridu, WAEC boss who sat for the exam, 118,101(representing 7.41%) were found to be involved in various exam malpractices while the figure for the year before it was 145,795(representing 8.61%) out of a total 1,705,976 candidates who sat for the edition. The situation in the year 2012 which showed 112,000(representing 6.70%) out of the 1,672,224 candidates who sat for the same diet involved in one form of malpractice or the other was even lower in percentage over that of the subsequent three years. The November\December edition which serves as reseat exams for external students is considered to be worse when compared to the May\June edition. For instance, out of the total 396,614 candidates who sat for the 2012 Nov\Dec edition, 47,289(representing 11.04 per cent) of them involved in cheating. In spite of the trend however, candidates who sat for those ex-

My plans —Provost, Institute of Education, Kangere 21

ams have continued to record mass failure on a yearly basis in every state of the federation such that less than 40 percent on the average of the total candidates could be said to pass the exams. For this year as an example, it was only 616,370 candidates (representing 38.68%) that obtained credit pass and above in five subjects including English language and Mathematics, the required subjects’ combination for candidates seeking admission into the tertiary institutions in and outside the country. The figures were no difference in the two years before it. While it was only 529,425 candidates (representing 31.28%) that made similar grades in 2014, that of 2013 were just 610, 334(representing 36.57%) of the total candidates. The WAEC boss while fuming at the development while addressing members of Education Writers Association of Nigeria, EWAN, during a parley organised in its honour

in Lagos, identified several reasons for candidates to indulge in the act. The most remarkable factor according to him is what to call academic laziness or mediocrity on the part of candidates. “Some students just see malpractice as the only way to exam success because they are not sure of their independent academic capabilities to pass exam, hence, resorting to cheating,” he said. It has also been observed by educationist that lack of good moral on the part of some teachers and parents is another factor responsible for the practice. Some teachers for instance are said to be cashing in on students ignorance to enrich their pockets at the expense of academic propriety while some parents don’t also mind going extra miles to look for the so-called miracle centres where their children can cheat. Eguridu, while explaining that the development had also found its way in the form of corruptible

Lagos has no plan to close down schools 22

‘‘

practices especially in the corridors of power in the country pointed out that the council on its part had come up with various measures to prevent such occurrence. He identified some of the measures to include but not limited to biometric capturing of candidates and embossment of passport photograph on their certificates. With this, he becomes difficult for impersonation of candidates or counterfeiting certificates of the council. “The council equally has the power to withhold or cancelthe entire results of candidates found culpable of cheating or delist schools or centres that involve in the practice for certain number of years or permanently according to the gravity of their offences. “We can also prosecute candidates as well as their collaborators because of the practice,” he stressed. CONTINUE ON PAGE 23

‘Govt paying students’ WAEC fees, a misplaced priority’ 22

Education Today

Thursday, October 22, 2015

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UNESCO, others boost mass literacy in North-east Ezekiel Titis Bauchi

he United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and National Council for Adult Education (NCAE) have in conjunction with the National Mass Education Commission (NMEC) set to boost mass literacy in the North East Nigeria. The UNESCO Regional Director Mr. Benoit Sossou, disclosed this while presenting 50 units of laptop and other learning materials to the North East Community Model Learning Centre in Bauchi. Represented by Dr. Safiya Iliyasu, the regional director said Nigeria was currently in the process of curriculum reform to make literacy curriculum more responsive to the challenging needs of the 21st Century knowledge economy. She noted that a recent survey in the country had put Bauchi State as one of the states with high literacy rates in the country

following the persistent activities of Boko Haram members who attack people indiscriminately in the north east. In her remark, the Chairperson, National Council for Adult Education, Professor Fatima Umar expressed confidence that the learning materials would assist towards improving mass literacy delivery in the region. Fatima however called on women in the state to key into the literacy centre to enable them benefit from vocational training and literacy education. Also speaking, the Provost, Bauchi Institute of Education, Prof. Garba Ibrahim Kirfi called for synergy among education stakeholders to build the capacity of adult educators and facilitators towards optimum productivity. Speaking earlier, Executive Secretary, Bauchi State Agency for Mass Education, Hajiya Hauwa Tafawa Balewa promised that the agency would continue to intensify campaign on mass literacy education in the state.

Babcock University opens N2bn cardiovascular institute

Olawaseun Bolaji

abcock University, Ilisan-Remo, Ogun State will today officially declare open a centre for the treatment of heart-related disorders, the disease which experts said now kill more than any infectious diseases in the country. Known as Tri-State Heart and Vascular Centre, the facility which is located right inside the faith-based institution to provide services that surpass the available cardio vascular services in the Sub-Saharan Africa is jointly put together by the university and the institute at the cost of about N2 billion. The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. James Kayode-Makinde, who disclosed this on Tuesday at a pre-launch press briefing in Ilisan-Remo, said the new heart centre is designed not only to halt medical tourism but also to train more cardiologists in the country as well as to attract more expatriates to build the nation’s economy. He said while a Fellowship programme had al-

ready been initiated at the school’s medical college to train more consultants in this field, more healthcare centres including the one for cancer patients and the medical research institutes are on the pipeline. The vice-chancellor noted that the Tri-State Foundation which would also be launched today is aimed at raising fund from philanthropist individuals and institutions to take care of poor Nigerians suffering from heart-related diseases. “Our plan is not to reject patients on any basis including financial difficulty,” he stressed. Shedding more light on the disease, the President of Tri-State Cardiovascular Institute at the university, Professor Kamar Adeleke said it was disheartening that cardiovascular disorders had taken over from known infectious diseases including Malaria as the nation’s leading killer-diseases. He explained that the situation has further shortened the life span of Nigerians to between 51 and 52 years of age compared with that of Kenyans that stand at 68 to 69.

Ogun State Deputy Governor, Chief Yetunde Onanuga presenting trophy to the overall winners from Anambra State at the 55th Independent Anniversary Inter-Basic School Debate championship at Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, recently.

45 corps members to repeat service in Lagos Tunbosun Ogundare

he Lagos State Coordinator, National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Mr. Cyril Akhanameh has disclosed that no fewer than 45 corps members who were posted to the state but absconded from their duty posts throughout the year would have to repeat the exercise except they don’t need the discharged certificates. He disclosed this last week during the passing out parade for Batch ‘C’ corps members held at the Iyana Ipaja orientation camp of the corps.

According to him, up to 45 corps members out of the total 5,341 2014 posted to the state left their places of primary assignments for more than three months without obtaining permission and when they were issued queries to explain why, they could not give any genuine reason for their actions. “To us as an organisation,” he stressed, “such behaviour is tantamount to indiscipline which cannot be tolerated.” Akhanameh however pointed out that the level of punishment which would be meted out to erring individu-

als shall be according to their offences. “Some may be asked to stay for another three to four months in any part of the states to be posted by NYSC,” he stressed. “The measures will serve as a disciplinary action to deter incoming corps members from doing likewise.” Five corps members who distinguished themselves from the rest during the service year in the state were given award of excellence by the state government. Commending the corps members for successful completion of their one –year

mandatory programme, the state’s governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode charged them to be industrious and courageous to face future challenges. Represented by the Permanent Sectary, Special Duties, Dr. Ibironke Solande, the governor asked them to go with entrepreneurial spirit, stressing that the era of waiting for white collar jobs has gone. “Ensure you make good use of the vocational skills you have acquired in the last one year and become job creators and not job seekers,” he further counselled.

VC advocates merit for appointment of ministers Wole Adedeji Ilorin

ice Chancellor of Landmark University, Omu Aran, Kwara State, Prof. Aize Obayan has urged Nigerians to let merit come to play in appointing ministers and other public office holders and not giving to sectional sentiments. Such sentiments she said include political party interests, ethnic, religious and any others that would only serve narrow purposes at the expense of merit and collective desirability of the national growth in a modern world. The vice-chancellor who was speaking in Omu Aran when members of the National Association of Oduduwa Students, NAOS, gave her an Award of Academic Icon in recognition of her successful

L-R: Vice-Chancellor, Augustine University, Ilara-Epe, Lagos State, Prof. Steve Afolami; Chairman, Governing Council and Pro-Chancellor, Chief Gilbert Grant and Proprietor of the university, Archbishop Adewale Martins during the institution’s pre-inauguration press conference last week. PHOTO: TUNBOSUN OGUNDARE

stint of eight years at the Covenant University, Ota before moving on to Landmark University for a fresh round of administration. According to her, President Mohammadu Buhari for instance should be given the chance to assemble those that are of needed quality and merit to constitute his cabinet as ministers in his cabinet particularly, putting round pegs in round holes based on the nominees’ background to man relevant ministries. Professor Obayan added

that the time has come for Nigerians to begin to think of a united country and no more a divided nation, pointing out that we talk of USA because Americans think of a united America. She canvassed for a play down on sectional groups to project Niger Delta, Arewa, Biafra, Oduduwa, Middle Belt and other bodies which had not helped the principle of a united country much. Giving a charge to youths including members of the Association of Oduduwa Students, Prof. Obayan im-

plored them to begin to see themselves not as students, but as the ones that would be in charge of the affairs the country tomorrow. Earlier, President of NAOS, Adekunle Adeniyi said Professor Obayan’s track record of excellence performance as the VC of Covenant University where she was rated the Best Vice Chancellor in Nigeria, (Private Universities category), which prompted fresh appointment in Landmark University after eight years sojourn in the former.

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Sound education, key to devt —Amosun Tunbosun Ogundare

he Ogun State Government has reiterated its commitment to the development of education sector as a key factor in socio-economic development of the state. The state governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun represented by his Deputy, Chief Yetunde Onanuga gave the assurance while accepting the award as the Pillar of Education Development of the State at the grand finale of the 55th Independence President’s Inter-SUBEB Debate Championship held at Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, last week. Amosun who appreciated the honour bestowed on him said the recognition of his contributions to the development of the state would spur him to take the state to the next level. Earlier in his opening remark, the Chairman, President’s School Debate National (PSDN) Advisory Board, Prof. Jerry Agada according to a press release made available to journalists, noted that it was an epoch making occasion put in place to discover intellectual talent inherent in the younger generation, saying that the championship has demonstrated that education could be strengthened through determination and resourcefulness. Agada while appreciating the people of the Ogun State for their hospitality, encouraged pupils to engage in industrious and fruitful activities that would further develop them. The National Coordinator, PSDN, Elder Dare Oritu in his address of welcome pointed out that the debate had brought spirit of togetherness in the country, urging the pupils and Nigerians at large to take a cue from the competition as this was the only way to move the Country forward. The climax of the event was the presentation of financial reward donated by the state government to the winners of the championship with the Anambra team winning the championship with a cash reward of N150,000, Kaduna team carted N100,000 while second runner-up Niger State had N75,000 respectively.

Governor pledges quality education in Delta schools

he Governor of Delta, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa has pledged his administration commitment in improving quality of education in the state. The governor made the pledge at the Annual National Conference of the Nigerian Association of Teachers of Technology in Asaba. He was represented by his Special Adviser on Labour Matters, Mr Mike Okeme. The governor told the conference that the State Government would refocus attention on schools curricula in response to the increasing complexity and challenge of the contemporary world of technology. He said that emphasis would be laid on technical and vocational education that would empower people with the requisite knowledge and entrepreneurial skills for business, trade and commerce.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

My plans —Provost, Institute of

Education Today

Education, Kangere Dr. Garba Ibrahim Kirfi, a twoterm Provost of College of Education Azare, Bauchi State is also a former Commissioner for Higher Education in the state. He was a member of the National conference and teaches History at the University of Maiduguri, Borno State. In this interview with journalists, Kirfi who is now a Provost of Institute of Education, Kangere, Bauchi State speaks about his plans for the institute and how to revamp the nation’s education sector, among other issues. EZEKIEL TITUS brings the excerpt: How would you react to your new appointment as a Provost of the newly established Institute of Education, Kangere? It is simply a challenge to serve. But I must say that the appointment may largely be a sign of recognition from government to my previous assignments. I am talking about my performances. The appointment shows that the government is satisfied with my performance at a similar institution which I was provost for two terms as well as a commissioner for higher education. Although, I didn’t expect the appointment because I was already looking forward to go and rest after completing my second term as a Provost in Azare, somehow I made up my mind to return to classroom in the university after all, I have never disconnected myself from the system throughout. My appointment is also a challenge as it happened at a time the state is facing serious economic crisis. But then, we shall move on and record huge success with God on our side. What exactly informed the establishment of the institute since the state has one college of education already and how do you intend to run the school? By the grace of God, I am one of the technocrats appointed to set up the institute. The purpose is simply to produce skillful teachers that will complement that from the college of education that is already on ground. The institute was established after due and exhaustive consultations with the state Universal Basic Education Board, Teachers Service Commission including the Ministry of Education, to establish an institution that can cater for early child care education. This is due to the establishment of more nursery and Kindergarten schools in the state. So, in a nutshell, the institute was set up to train and re-train teachers that will cater for pupils at that level. The other areas of focus for the institute will be on vocational and technical education. The institute will develop courses that will equip students with the knowledge of skills acquisition and entrepreneurship. It will also cater

Kirfi for special education for the physically chal- for this purpose, let talk about education, the lenged persons and we shall expand with time. extreme shortage of qualified, dedicated, and motivated teaching force is the current major What are the requirements for admis- challenges in the sector, For instance, over 5,000 sion seekers into the institute? primary school teachers in Bauchi State are It is simple. It is just like every other college said not to be qualified for the job they are doing, of education in the country. All that required yet they are still kept in the system. And that is is for prospective students to tender their the foundation. So we do we expect from other Senior Secondary School Certificate with a levels of education? Even at that, the qualified minimum of five credit pass in subject com- ones are being distracted from the job. This may bination according to courses apply for which be due to poor remuneration and working enmust include English language and Mathe- vironment, lack of teaching materials such as matics. They will also need to pass the Unified essential textbooks and writing items. All these Tertiary Matriculation Examination with a and many more will definitely affect negatively minimum 150 points as stipulated by the Joint effective teaching and learning in schools. So Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) a way out is for government to address these for polytechnics and colleges of education as variables one after the other and importantly to well as the post-UTME. But applicants coming bring in more competent hands into the system for pre-NCE programmes who could not meet and remunerate them well. No amount of monup with the above requirements will be consid- ey invested in education that is a waste. We can ered for admission if they have ordinary pass- grow as a nation if our education sector contines in five subjects including English language ues to be in ruin. and Mathematics. But funding has been a major challenge How do you think your institute can facing tertiary schools especially the state benefit from the Tertiary Education Trust government-owned in the country, how do Fund TETFUND? you then intend to run this institute effecOnce we are able to be done with our actively in the face of dwindling economic creditation by the National Commission for fortune of the state government? Colleges of Education, NCCE, which will Funding is a serious issue facing not only edcome after putting in place necessary human ucation but other sectors of the economy in the capital and material resources, we will be able country. So, inadequate funding has been a reto approach TETFUND for help. The recent current challenge for tertiary institutions in the visit by NCCE to the institute was to inspect country. Many of them spend their subvention our structures and facilities on ground for the largely on salaries leaving out a small fraction take-off of the institution. for their infrastructural development. A few also supplement the spending with internally What do you have to say that in spite of generated revenues. These are various fees and claim by successful governments to have levies being charged students for the services invested heavily in education, there is still they are enjoying like teaching and examinahuge rot in the sector? tion materials, To be frank, the reasons responsible for the electricity, medical care and so on. But we decay are many. But it is not only the educa- shall come up with ideas to generate money tion sector that is in decay, other sectors of from to complement the government subventhe economy are facing similar problem. But tion.

Education Today

Lagos has no plan to close down schools —Ministry Tunbosun Ogundare

he Director-General, Lagos State Office of Education Quality Assurance, Mrs. Ronke Soyombo has restated that the state government had no plan for now to close down any primary school in the state on the premise of their operations. She made the disclosure when the Association of Christian Schools in Nigeria paid her a courtesy visit in her office at Aluasa secretariat, recently. Soyombo who reiterated the state government’s determination to ensure standards in both public and private schools pointed out that her office was not out to witch-hunt any private schools but to ensure quality in their service delivery. She noted that all what her office required from both public and private schools is their adherence to rules and regulations guiding their operations. “That is why my office as an entity under the ministry of education is appealing to private school owners as one of the major stakeholders to cooperate with government and support it policies to move the sector forward as education is the bedrock of development,” she said. While urging her visitors to ensure their members are duly registered and obtain the state’s approval signage for their schools, Soyombo, in a press release by the Press and Public Relations Officer of her office, Mrs. Peju Kassim, also reminded them that regular payment of annual dues was not negotiable. She pointed out that teaching is a noble profession that every teacher should be proud of. Responding, the leader of the visiting team and Proprietress of Dansol Schools, Mrs. Adun Akinyemiju commended the state’s government for establishing education quality assurance office as a platform for the private sector to be actively involved in driving education in the state. She promised that her members would cooperate with the government to make its various policies yielding fruitful results.

UNICAL hosts international communication conference Richard Ndoma Calabar

o fewer than 200 participants are attending the ongoing 17th Annual International Conference of African Council for Communication Education, Nigeria Chapter holding at University of Calabar (UNICAL), Cross River State. Briefing journalists in Calabar, Head of Department, Linguistics and Communications Studies, UNICAL, Dr Godwin Iwuchukwu stated that the conference which is holding by the university for the first time has brought together academics and journalists from the United Kingdom, United States and Africa. The four-day conference with theme: “Communication, Language and the 2015 elections,” is expected to wind up tomorrow. Iwuchukwu, who doubles as the Chairman, Local Organising Committee of the conference, said the forum was an opportunity for scholars and practicing journalists to x-rayed issues and events regarding reportage and use of language by media professionals and academics.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Govt’s payment of WAEC fees, a misplaced priority —ASUSS boss

Mr. Ranti Ojo, the Chairman of Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), Kogi State speaks with WALE IBRAHIM in Lokoja about why the state government should stop the payment of West African School Certificate Examinations’ fees for the senior secondary school students in the country, among other issues.

How do you see the payment of examinations fees by state governments for the senior secondary school students in public schools in view of the fact that many of these states are not financially viable? It is a serious issue. Let me use Kogi State as an example. To me, the payment of WAEC exam fees is a misplaced priority. The payment with all purpose and intents is for political patronage and a means to deceive the parents who would have to pay back with their votes. The issue of teachers, especially in the state-owned secondary schools in terms of staff welfare, remuneration, capacity building, infrastructural facilities and instructional materials are grossly below average. In particular, welfare of teachers is at very low ebb as government does not pay teachers salary regularly. Presently in the country, there are some states that owing their teachers over eight months salary but thanks to the Federal Government bailout package. So, if you say you are paying WAEC fees for students neglecting the teachers, the question is who is going to teach the students and prepare them for that examination. It is teachers of course. Then, what type of performance are you expecting from the students? If you pay a visit to any public school and assess its infrastructural facilities, look at their buildings, look at their seating arrangements in the classrooms, you would quickly conclude that the environment is not conducive for learning. However, l would not blame the parents that struggle to enrol their children in the private schools because they have better facilities. Sadly, successive leaders have succeeded in killing public schools through their policies and inadequate funding but God is going to judge them all. Most of the policy makers today in government went to public schools and enjoyed best of facilities during their times. But now, nothing work again in those schools and don’t want to fix them. They now prefer to establish their own private schools and charge very high fees that will make them exclusive for the rich. So, for any government to continue paying WAEC an exam fee of students is to achieve cheap political popularity. They are not in any way helping parents but adding to their burden. This is because the fees are being paid at the detriment of efficiency and performance. That is why it is always mass failure when the results are released because students are not well prepared for the exam. The teachers in Kogi State for over seven years now have been crying to government to recruit more teachers to add to the one on ground but nothing happened till now. This present government made efforts to recruit 500 teachers in order to fill the gap created by the retired teachers since 2012 but unfortunately nobody has been recruited. Every year in the last seven years, nothing less than 100 teachers go on retirement in the state service. The total number of secondary school teachers in the state is less than 6,000 as at 2009 and since then no teachers have been recruited. Last year, over 140 teachers were sent forth. This year’s list is about 97. To worsen the situation, some teachers are even transferring their service to the main stream civil service, where workers enjoy better welfare. For example, teachers are always considered last anytime government is paying workers leave allowance. If teachers are been considered as second class citizens, l wonder how you want such teachers to put in their best. So, the money government is using to pay students’ WEAC exams’ fees should be used to recruit more teachers, provide better facilities and instructional materials and create enabling environment conducive for learning and working in schools. Government of Kogi State pays close to N500 million annually for students in the name of WAEC fees whereas most of the schools where the students are learning have no table, chairs, library and their laboratories are empty. There are some secondary schools in this state that do not have more than two teachers and the government is paying the WAEC

Ojo

the money government is using to pay students’ WEAC exams’ fees should be used to recruit more teachers, provide better facilities and instructional materials and create enabling environment conducive for learning in schools. fees for students. Then, we should ask ourselves how you want such student to pass? There is no miracle that would make such student to pass. The only miracle available for such a student is examination malpractice. You accused some political leaders of killing public schools, in which way sir? Well, the most of the private schools available are owned by these socalled our leaders- the policy makers and their cronies. So, the only way to patronise their schools is to cripple the public schools and make them non conducive for learning. Let us look at it from this angle, how many of our leaders have their children in public schools? To them, whether public schools exist or not do not make any meaning to them. They are doing this in order to make the masses their perpetual servants and make our children to also serve their own children. This may later pose a big problem unless the issues are addressed. Funny enough, most of the public schools today exist on the mercy of parents. Go to any public school and talk to the principal, they would explain their experience. If not for the Parents Teachers Association (PTA) contributions, many public schools would not have a single teacher. But number one social responsibility of any responsible government is to provide education to her citizenry. So, any government that fails to provide qualitative education does not fit to be called a government. So, what do you suggest as a way out? It is simple. It is to improve on the policy guiding primary and secondary education in the country. For instance, their funding and regulation can be removed from the purview of the local and state governments and give to a special commission to be set up for such purposes.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Education Today

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Keeping our best teachers out of classroom

will like to begin by congratulating Mrs. Rose Nkemdilim Obi, for her sweet victory at the maiden edition of the Maltina “Teacher of the Year” competition which was initiated by the Felix-Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund of the Nigerian Breweries Plc. Apparently, you are an ordinary Nigerian like the majority of us, without a godfather, and obviously unconnected to any of the numerous fraternities to which many Nigerians mortgage their souls just for a guarantee of a job position irrespective of qualification or disposition. It also appears that you are not predisposed to the corrupt practices of the day which would have allowed you to purchase a job position right from the very beginning. We would like to congratulate you heartily on the good fortune of your translation from obscurity to national limelight on the platform of the Maltina “Teacher of the Year” competition. We celebrate your tenacity at being able to persevere for 10 long years working for what we consider peanuts considering your pedigree. It is our belief that it is that unparalleled commitment that permitted the management of your school to finally see the sterling qualities in you, and subsequent rewarded you with a belated offer of fulltime appointment. We have noted that though your first degree was in chemistry, you demonstrated your versatility by teaching mathematics also. The cheering news from the whole episode however, is that, among the gloom and doom of the educational sector, we see a glimmer of hope in you. Your revelation has confirmed our belief all along that many good teachers in Nigeria are excluded from our public educational system while the poor quality teachers seem to be given privilege of place. The question is what are the conditions that could have translated into this ambiguity? The simple answer would be, a fatally flawed selection process leading to teachers’ employment! In the first instance, too much emphasis is placed on paper qualifications. There are products of our colleges of education turned degree awarding institutions by fiat who continue

level of corruption in the ministry of education and its agencies involved in teachers recruitment. There is often no attempt to determine what one knows or what one can deliver. The emphasis is on “who you know” and “how much you can pay.” I dare say that most teachers in Nigeria are employed on the basis of financial or political patronage, brazen nepotism or some combination of all. Without such personal, political or financial support, many highly trained and competent teachers like Mrs. Obi would continue to remain outside the classrooms while the charlatans hold sway. most teachers in igeria Though, there is an acute shortage in the number of qualified teachers nationwide, efforts should be put in place to seare employed on the basis lect the best to fill available vacancies. As it is often said, “the taste of the pudding is in the eating”! No one can identify a of financial or political competent teacher by sight except by critical examination of patronage brazen nepotism or relevant parameters namely, knowledge of teaching subject and teaching methodology. A potentially good teacher should be able to attain a minisome combination of all mum of credit pass in the subject in which he purported to churn out teachers many of whom are scarcely able to read specialised. A teacher who cannot attain a minimum of a and write. The universities are not better either. The bottom credit pass in his teaching subject(s) cannot guarantee that line in all these is that the establishments where teachers are students entrusted to him would pass, except of course produced have gone haywire; their activities are scarcely regu- through unconventional means. lated in any meaningful way. Many colleges of education are Every fresh teacher must therefore be subjected to approrapidly converting to universities and awarding degrees. priate subject knowledge test in order to determine suitabiliConversion is not a bad idea per se except that the upgrade ty for employment. Promotion of teachers already in service is in name only since the students, the teachers and the infra- should in addition depend on a minimum performance of structures remain the same! These candidates who subse- their students in a controlled subject based assessment test. quently acquire what I consider spurious degrees in education With the proposed school feeding programme of the Presare often referred to as the professional teachers and given pri- ident Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, there will be ority consideration during recruitment exercised ahead of all a dramatic upsurge in school enrolment and ultimately, the others! number of teachers needed. While one cannot give a blanket endorsement of all holders Concerted efforts must be made to train qualified candiof the Bachelor of Science degree in their respective fields of dates as teachers in overhauled teachers training instituspecialisation, experience has shown that they have a better tions. A paradigm shift in the educational sector may be grasp of the subject matter than those who studied education. the only panacea for many of the ills that currently plague Another reason for this incongruous situation is the high Nigeria.

Don decries first class graduates opting out of teaching Saidat Alausa

he Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB),Ogun State, Prof. Waheed Adekojo has said the issue of first class graduates opting out of academics is not good for the education system. He said this recently at the institution during a chat with journalists. The Professor noted that in spite of the fact that the university had produced many First Class graduates, many of such graduates prefer not to be retained in the university, because of the extant

rule that states that a staff must have worked for one year before being eligible for study leave with pay, adding that these students would rather opt for postgraduate studies abroad. He disclosed that this trend was not good for the system, because such high fliers are unable to contribute their quota to national development. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor also disclosed that in order to address this challenge, the university Senate had introduced competition to the employment process, such that persons with genuine passion for work are made to take up employment. He noted that the essence was

to read the students’ mind and to know whether they actually have the vision and plans to go into academics. “We want to know whether if you are sent out to study, you will focus on your PhD programme and come back to the country”, he stressed. According to him, “There are so many of them who have travelled out of this county and refused to come back. We want to know if what we are investing on is really worth it”. Responding to whether there is a policy in place on automatic employment for First Class graduates, he said the statement was enacted, to encourage students to work hard to become First Class

First Class Biomedical Science graduate from the Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom, Olumide Kayode (flanked) by parents, Pastor Kayode Ogunbiyi of Rivers of Living Water Parish, Redeemed Christian Church of God, Thamesmead, London and Mrs. Florence Ogunbiyi at Olumide’s graduation ceremony, recently.

graduates such that when they graduate, there could be a window of opportunity for automatic employment. He however added that the university had been encouraging its first class graduates intellectually, through proper supervision of their postgraduate studies abroad. Prof. Adekojo described employment in the university system as being budget-based, adding that no public university could just employ staff without ensuring that the money is there to pay salaries. Re-iterating the importance of employing first class graduates in the university, he said that a system that does not think of how it would sustain itself would not stand the test of time, noting that the university once created a programme named Junior Research Fellow (JRF) for its first class graduates, but this was later abolished by the Senate to give way to the Graduate Assistantship programme, which was well-known to all Nigerian Universities. In a separate chat, the university’s Director of Academic Planning, Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, stated that first class graduates do not have problems securing jobs in general, adding that most of them are not usually interested in getting jobs immediately, but would rather prefer to further their education.

CU, Nigeria Foundries to partner on local content

n a quest to realise university’s goal of innovation, product development and nation building for the session, a team of faculty from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State recently visited Nigeria Foundries Limited, to explore the possibility of collaboration with the foremost private Foundry in Nigeria. The leader of the team and Director, Vision 10:2022, Professor Christian Bolu, made it known to the officials of Nigeria Foundries Limited that the motive behind the visit, was to build industry linkages which would narrow the gap between theory and practical experience for students. According to Professor Bolu, who is an expert in Mechatronics Engineering, “The collaboration would help Covenant University students have practical knowledge of current practices and issues in the industry, giving them a competitive advantage in the labour market.” Applauding this initiative, the Managing Director, Nigeria Foundries Limited, Mr. Vassily Oye Barberopoulous, noted that the visit was a welcome initiative that would develop the local content of the country and lead to employability of fresh graduates.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, October 22, 2015

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

FUNAAB don institutes 2 endowment funds

Provost lauds TETFund’s intervention in schools

Saidat Alausa

cting Head, Department of Physics, College of Physical Sciences, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Dr. Gboyega Adebayo, has been commended for instituting two endowment funds through the award of annual prizes to excellent students in the areas of Solid State Physics and Condensed Matter Physics. A renowned Professor of Solid Physics, Erio Tosatti, lauded Dr. Adebayo’s initiative, saying he had encouraged and supported education and the scientific upbringing of young people upon which high academic standards for the future would be built. The renowned professor said this while dedicating the Professor Abdus Salam First Endowment and Prize for Physics, added that “we, scientists are first of all men and women. He admonished him to keep the flag flying and continue to be a shining example to others. Dr. Adebayo, an alumnus of FUNAAB, had responded to the ongoing call for endowments by the Advancement Office of the University, by making two principal donations of N200,000 each, to the best 400-level student in the Department of Physics, whose area of specialisation is in Physics or Solid Physics and graduates with a Cummulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.0 in Solid Physics and 4.5 in Physics, respectively.

UNICAL appoints new Vice-Chancellor

he University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has announced Prof. Enefiok Essien as its new vice-chancellor. Enefiok Essien, 55, a professor of Law, takes over from Prof. Comfort Ekpo, to become the new vice-chancellor whose tenure will end in November. The Registrar and Secretary to Council, Mrs. Edak Umondak, made this known in a statement on Monday. The VC designate, who graduated from the university in 1984 with a second class upper division in Law, began his teaching career in the university as an assistant lecturer in 1986. He obtained LLM from the University of Lagos in 1988 and Ph.D from the University of Birmingham, England in 1998.

Emeka Chukwuemeka Fcet, Umunze

he Provost Federal College of Education (Technical), Umunze Anambra State, Prof. Josephat Ogbuagu has described Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFund as one of the most important thing that has happened to the country’s education sector. He noted that without interventions from TETFund, most public tertiary institutions in the country would have been in a state of inactive. According to him TETFund has executed several intervention projects in most tertiary institutions of learning in the country which are aimed at enhancing learning, even as he commended TETFund for their commitment towards moving the tertiary institutions forward. Ogbuagu stated this during the commissioning of the Multimedia Micro-teaching laboratory built and fully equipped by TETFund Special Presidential Intervention 2013 at the College Permanent Site. He commended the Presiden-

cy; TETFUND and other relevant agencies for partnering with the college especially in building the gigantic edifice and fully equipping it with ultra –modern facilities for better service delivery in producing teachers who will help the nation raise a generation of citizens whose performance will meet the international standards. He stated that most infrastruc-

tures in the College were courtesy of various TETFunds’ interventions, adding that a lot of achievements are attributable to the funding that has come from the fund. Handing over the building to the college management, the Director Physical Planning Department, NCCE Abuja, Mr. Jonathan Achumie, who doubles as the representative of the Presidency,

stated that the Federal Government through TETFUND deemed it necessary to erect the Micro-Teaching laboratory in the College to meliorate the difficulties encountered during teaching and learning. He also noted that the microteaching laboratory has been equipped with the best facilities and the technology is the first of its kind.

L-R: Registrar, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, Mrs. Folake Okor; Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ayodeji Olukoju and Chairman, National Universities Commission, NUC, Standing Committee on Private Universities, Prof. Akaneren Essien at the Caleb University’s fifth convocation ceremony, recently.

Foundation rewards undergraduate essay winners Ezekiel Efeobhokhan 500L, Pharmacy, UNIBEN

he Ibhawoh Foundation has announced the winners of its maiden essay competition titled; “Strategies for addressing the challenges of funding higher education in Nigeria.” Speaking at the event, the founder of the foundation, Gerald Ibhawoh stated that the initiative was brought about by the need to give back to the society. “We all know the stress involved in passing through any higher institution in Nigeria hence the foundation has seen it fit to encourage those who could differentiate themselves from the mass”. The award ceremony which was held in Benin city had winners emerged in two categories; Joy Oboh 400 level History and International Studies emerging winner from the Ambrose Alli University (AAU) Ekpoma and Ezekiel Efeobhokhan Pharmacy student from the University of Benin. Commenting on the award the winner from AAUm, Oboh expressed her delight as this was a landmark to success and that the award was an encouragement to participate in productive essays like this. “I really appreciate this opportunity given to me by the foundation my horizon has been broadened by extensive research carried out in the course of the competition; I encourage other students to fully participate in subsequent competitions.” Addressing the awardees, Bonny Ibhawoh

encouraged them to keep up the good work and face their studies as this was the only criteria to sustain the level of excellence they just achieved. However, Gerald congratulated the winners and emphasised that they were now ambassadors of the foundation and hence they should be known for good conduct so as the foundation

could be seen in good light. “This competition is a yearly event and I want to encourage you to put in your best in order not to be sidelined. It took rigorous process and scrutiny to select the two of you hence I would encourage you to keep flying the flag of excellence” he said.

SUG UNILORIN plans big for varsity’s 40th anniversary Abdul Ganiy Shehu

he University of Ilorin Students’ Union set another record last Thursday as it organised the maiden edition of its press conference where it stated its readiness to join in the celebration of the university’s 40th anniversary. The historic conference, tagged: “The state of the union” was targeted at informing the press and the general public, about the university’s 40th anniversary celebrations, the condition of the Nigerian youths, the programmes and plans of the union for the new academic session, among others. The president of the union, Mr. Alao Idris while welcoming the students on campus after the long break, urged them to participate actively in the anniversary celebrations of the university, promising that it would be a memorable event. He also decried the high rate of youth unemployment in the country, and asserted that the youths today could best be own advocators. On the programmes and plans of his administration in the new session, the union

leader praised the tireless efforts of his team to put together programmes for the new session. Programmes such as: official press conference, senate council orientation programme, student leadership conference, UNILORIN idol, Freshers’ oratory contest, essay contest, Female 5-aside football competition among others are expected to hold in the first semester, while other programmes such as: Female gender programme, Youth leadership summit, Miss UNILORIN beauty pageant, entrepreneurial development seminar, students’ union week, final year week, male 5-aside football championship among others are to be featured in the second semester. He also highlighted human capacity development, improved welfare of students, students’ union volunteer group, and increased online awareness as the major achievements of his four months old adminAmbali istration.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, October 22, 2015

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

We want more classrooms, hostels, AAU students tell mgt ‘Yomi Ayeleso

300L, Bus. Adm., AAU, Akungba-Akoko

n what they described as their major challenges on campus, students of Adekunle Ajasin University, AAU, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State have called on the school management to build more lecture rooms in order to reduce the avoidable congestion in some of the classrooms. The students also enjoined the management to as a matter of urgency embark on the construction of hall of residence, which they said would reduce the current accommodation challenge facing the students. The students made the charged at the maiden edition of the Vice Chancellor- Students Interactive forum held at the multipurpose hall of the institution. Speaking at the forum, Adesina Tosin, the President of the Faculty of Education Students Association advised the management to improve on the number of lecture theatres, which he said had affected the smooth flow of learning in the campus. The 400-Level student further explained that the inadequate number of lecture rooms due to drastic increase in the population of students is causing a major setback to the entire students. Adesina also said the lack of hostel facilities to accommodate the over 80 per cent of the students that are staying outside the campus is seriously constituting a lot of security threat to them. He said some of the students that stay off campus are being threatened, harassed, and molested by hoodlums in the university community. He admonished the management to engage corporate and private organisations in order to build more hostels under the Private Public Partnership arrangement in the institution. On her part, Omosehin Margaret said, considering the paucity of funds being experienced by the institution due to insufficient grant from the government, she urged the institution to embark on the move that would improve the Internally Generated Revenue to be able to put in place the necessary infrastructures. Also speaking, the Public Relations Officer of the student union, Oludehinwa Daniel said the three financial institutions in the campus were not enough to render crucial financial services especially in the area of withdrawing from the Automated Teller Machines. Responding, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun appreciated the students for making their plight known at the event, saying the event was put in place to interact and rub minds with the students in the area things are okay or otherwise. The VC assured the students that all the issues raised would be adequately looked into by the management and proffer solutions to them. Prof. Ajibefun while acknowledging the students as the major stakeholder in the institution urged them to corporate with the university management in their quest in making the university the best in the country. He advised the students to maintain their good and peaceful conduct on campus saying they should embrace the spirit of consultation when making their grievances known. He further used the event to reiterate the university zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractices and other social vices, saying any student cut with the act would be dealt with appropriately.

Abdul Ganiy Shehu Unilorin

n what seems like the dominance of University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) students in the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPMN) annual essay competition in the last 4 years, a student of the University of Ilorin, Deji Atoyebi has once again emerged the first runner-up in the 2015 edition of the essay contest. The award was presented to Deji alongside other winners during the 47th Annual National Conference of the institute held at the International Conference Centre, Abuja recently. Deji, who is a 200-level Political Science student, was the first prize winner in the essay competition organised by the Union of Campus Journalists (UCJ), University of Ilorin chapter in May this year. The budding essayist emerged the second prize winner alongside Osita Chidoka (the star prize winner) and Olawale Atanda (the second runnerup) from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and the University of Lagos, Akoka, respectively. This year’s essay topic titled: “Winning the War against Corruption in Nigeria through the promotion of our ethical values,” was contested by 111 students in 33 tertiary institutions across the country, out of which seven entrants (featuring four Unilorin students) were invited for their defence earlier in October. In his post-award remark, Deji expressed joy for achieving the feat, saying “I never imagined I could win and I give thanks to God for that.” When asked how he attained the

Saidat Alausa

ector, Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Dr. Margaret Ladipo has said that the only way to reduce unemployment in the country is through polytechnic education. She said this during the institution’s pre-convocation press conference held at the college on Tuesday. She stated that the time has come for developing economies such as Nigeria to focus more on Technical and Vocational Education and Entrepreneurial education which is capable of driving the country quest for industrial self sufficiency. According to her this can only be achieve through polytechnic education. Ladipo explained further that, that is why in line with the dictates of the Millen-

Again, UNILORIN student wins CIPM essay contest feat, he explained: “When I got the information about the essay competition last session, I immediately swung into action. I had to stay back after my exams to attend the CIPMN essay clinic organised by the UCJ, Unilorin chapter which was really helpful to me, and also to obtain the reference letter from the Registrar’s Office. So, during the long term break, I began

writing the essay competition. For me, it was challenging, because in the course of writing the essay, my laptop got crashed, and I had to start all over again, this time on a desktop computer. Due to these challenges, my entry was submitted about 10 minutes before the deadline in August. Then, in September, I was invited for the defence and eventually took second position.”

L-R: Founder of Ibhawoh Foundation, Gerald Ibhawoh; winners of Ibhawoh essay competition, 400-level History and International Studies student, Ambrose Alli University (AAU) Ekpoma, Joy Oboh and Ezekiel Efeobhokhan, Pharmacy student the University of Benin, during the presentation of awards, recently.

Polytechnic education, panacea to unemployment —YABATECH Rector dowed with requisite skills to become self-employed and ultimately employers of labour. “This will serve a dual purpose of promoting the dignity of labour and drastically reducing the legion of the unemployed in our society,” she explained. On the forthcoming convocation, the rector said the Ladipo ceremonies will be flagged nium Development Goals and off with a special Jumat serparticularly poverty eradicavice to be held at the college tion through the development mosque on Friday, October of entrepreneurial skills, the 23, 2015 while a commendacollege has continued to blaze tion service will come up on the trail in the promotion of Sunday, October, 25, 2015 at entrepreneurship education. the college chapel by 4p.m. The whole essence of enThe convocation lecture trepreneurship education actitled, “The Role of Entreprecording to her is to produce neur in Developing Nigeria competent graduates who through Renewable Alternawould be academically entive is scheduled to hold on

Wednesday, 28th October at the college multi-purpose hall at 10am and will be delivered by the former ViceChancellor, University of Uyo and an Alumni of the college, Prof. Fola Lasisi. The convocation which will be a combined ceremony for graduates of the 2012/2013 and 2013/2014 academic sessions where a total of 11,957 graduates will be awarded certificates will hold on Thursday, October 29, 2015 at the college convocation ground. Breaking down the number of graduates, Ladipo said 5,527 will be graduating for 2012/2013 session and 6,430 graduates for the 2013/2014 session and these comprises of both full time and part time students.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

HISDAY of September 26 welcomes us today: “Sincerely, if you break my glass cups you will pay for it (them).” “The release came a day after the IGP, Mr. Solomon Arase, was given a marching order by President Muhammadu Buhari….” Polscope: marching orders “First class (First-class) interiors for first class (first-class) travellers” “As one of the foremost citadel (citadels) of learning in Nigeria….” (Full-page advertorial by Plateau State Government, THISDAY, September 26) “FG commissions (inaugurates/auspicates, et al) tremor monitoring (tremor-monitoring) centre in Ebonyi” “Lamorde, EFCC boss, in soup…accused of relooting Tafa Balogun, Alams, others’ loots” Once again, ‘loot’ is uncountable. This informal and rudimentary bit: be in the (take note of the article) soup. “Groups petition on (against) Oyo, Rivers, Kwara, Kaduna, 6 other nominees” “Retired teachers blame Chime over (for) pension arrears” “N15bn debt: Ondo pensioners give Mimiko 4 days (days’) ultimatum” “Money laundering: Traders decry incessant arrest (arrests), seizure of dollars” “Day Adeboye’s wife, Ekiti Speaker, SSG, Raji-Rasaki bag (bagged) RCCG awards in Ekiti” In reportage, past tenses are hardly used in headlines, but when it becomes inevitable, as this extract, it must be employed. Virtually all obituary headlines these days read “Celebration of life” or “Painful exit”. Have these expressions not become hackneyed? We should still be creative even as we mourn. “My readers (readers’) day” “Ortom pardons convicts, reads riot act (the riot act) to criminals” “Masquerade (Masquerader) kills one, community deserted” “Domestic abuse: India (Indian) court dismisses minister’s wife (wife’s) allegations against dog” “However, pastoralists and agriculturists (agriculturists’) conflicts are not the only challenges affecting crop outputs

Justina Kingsley

he Board of Trustees of the Society for Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Mitigation (SETPOM) will today conferred SETPOM’s Fellowship awards on some eminent scholars and other professionals. They include the Pioneer Director and Chief Executive of the Centre for Atmospheric Research of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Prof. Babatunde Rabiu and Professor Sonnie Oniye of the Department of Biological Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Prof. Ademola Omojola of the Department of Geography, University of Lagos; Prof. Lucy Afuluenu Nwuba, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikwe University. Others are Mr. Toyin

Interminable mis-use of ‘commission’ (output)….” “Govt commended over (for/on) rice importation” THE NATION ON SUNDAY of October 11 takes its turn with a few “familiar” errors: “Reps calls (how?) for national policy on Hepatitis B…raises (why?) alarm (the alarm) over….” “With such record (a record)….” From the news pages to the COMMENT (EDITORIAL) of the above medium under review which disseminated two improprieties: “Still, legally a pardon wipes the crime clean; and a fair legal system cannot, in all good conscience, revisit that crime again.” Yank off ‘again’ in the interest of linguistic justice! “But the job would be half done if state institutions are strengthened to do their job (jobs) as and when due….” Simply do their jobs when due “Ankara blasts kill 86, injur (injure) 186” Finally from THE NATION ON SUNDAY under focus: “NFF mourns late Okugbe” Once more delete ‘late’! “…the counsels to the various parties were ready to present their written addresses for adoption….” ‘Counsel’ is noncount. DSP: “Bayelsa declares 7 days (7-day or 7 days’) mourning” “…in an evening of pomp and pageantry.” Addressed below (Centrespread advertisement by glo Unlimited, DAILY SUN, October 13) “…many are wondering why the federal government did not made (make) its promise to come up with long term (longterm) strategies….” NATIONAL MIRROR Front Page of October 15 goofed: “Again, gunmen abduct Bayelsa monarch, shot (shoot) police corporal” “As you handover (hand over) the mantle of leadership….” (Full-page advertorial by NICON Insurance Limited, National Mirror, October 15) “SON to clampdown (clamp down) on fake lubricants’ producers” “…especially in (on) the outskirts of the cities such as….”

SETPOM confers fellowship on Rabiu, others

Onisarotu, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture; Dr. Titilayo Anibaba, General Manager, Lagos State Parks and Gardens (LASPARK); Mrs Olufunke Bamgbose of the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company Limited (NPDC); Mr Adebola Shabi, General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protec-

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tion Agency (LASEPA) and Prof Nurudeen Olasupo of the Department of Microbiology, Lagos State University, Ojo. They will all be conferred with the fellows during today’s conference with a theme: “Environmental Management, Safety and Security,” holding at the University of Lagos, Akoka. The President of SET-

POM, Dr. Funmilayo Doherty of the UNESCO-UNEVOC Centre, Yaba College of Technology said in a press statement that the award of fellowship conferred on the recipients was a product of their outstanding contributions to the profession of safeguarding the environment, which is humanity’s common heritage.

Director-General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Johnson Olawumi (left) receiving the names of nominees recommended for the 2015 NYSC honours award from the Chairman of the National Selection Commitee, Dr. Kevin Ihenetu, in Abuja, recently. PHOTO: NAN

“ACF calls for support to (for) Buhari’s change mantra” “Judge’s absence stalled (stalls) Audu’s N10.9bn fraud trail (trial)” Last entry from National Mirror under review: “Dangote urges FG, states to adopt use of concrete roads (concrete for roads) for durability purpose” We do not need the last word in the extract! A tight headline rewrite: Dangote urges FG, states to use concrete for road durability “The challenges of transporting people presents (why?) a bounty of opportunities for reinventing the pulse of our cities.” (Full-page advertisement by Skye Bank, THE NATION ON SUNDAY, October 15) FEEDBACK GOV. Ben Ayade of Cross River restates commitment to the provision of”potable drinking water”, reported a Lagos-based TV station in its 3 p.m. news package on Oct. 12. The word “potable”, which means “fit for drinking” or “drinkable”, was not necessary or should have stood alone, leaving out “drinking” since potable and drinkable mean the same thing. In the Viewpoint section of Sunday Vanguard, Page 9, Oct. 11, the writer probably meant “VEERED OFF” when he wrote that “not known for fulsome flattery, Governor Okowa had in the course of presenting his speech VIED OFF....” (KOLA DANISA/07068074257) The right column is right: Stationeries Stationery Beddings Bedding Loots Loot Luxury bus Luxurious bus Repeat Repeat again Vigilante group Vigilance group Creditably Creditably well Overaged player Overage player An hotel A hotel Point accusing finger Point the finger Under the platform On the platform TO CONTINUED NEXT WEEK

PFN donates materials to schools Saidat Alausa

t was singing and dancing time for pupils, teachers and parents of public primary schools in Mushin community area of Lagos state as Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Mushin province donated education materials to the pupils. The members of PFN had visited the schools recently to look into the need of the pupils and realise that majority of them lack educational materials, school uniforms and shoes. While distributing the materials to the over 50 pupils who benefitted from the programme, the Chapter chairman of PFN, Reverend Babatunde Rasaq , said when they were going round the schools they saw pupils without school sandals, wearing torn school uniforms while some were

without writing materials, they felt that it was a sorry sight. Rasaq said the association then decided to provide these materials to the pupils and distributed to all public schools in the area. “We understand the fact that learning materials are important because they can significantly increase students’ achievement by supporting their learning as well as assisting the teachers to efficiently perform their professional duties. “We also want a better life through education for our youths; that is why we support early childhood development and also assist to create a conducive environment for learning.” Rasaq added that the decision to present the bags and stationery to the pupils within the area was a way of contributing to education development in the country.

Business Thursday, October 22, 2015

Experts tasks FG on enabling environment for SMEs 32

FG woos foreign investors with broadband 31

FG, Ghana to settle N33.8bn gas debt UDEME AKPAN, CHIDI UGWU

ederal Government has reached an agreement with Ghana on the modalities to settle the outstanding N33.8bn owed by the Volta River Authority, VRA, on gas supplied for power generation by a Nigerian company, N-Gaz. The highlight of the agreement was that the total sum of gas supply debt will be cleared by February 2016 at the latest. The agreement which was reached between a team led by the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu and the President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, stipulated that VRA will pay the balance of August and September invoices by October 31, 2015. It was also agreed that all other supplies as from October will be paid for on or before due date while backlog of arrears from 2012 will be defrayed by February 2016. It would be recalled that Nigeria had threatened to cut gas supply to Ghana by 70 percent over a $181 million debt that had accumulated over the years. Ghanaian Minister of Power, Dr. Kwabena Donkor had led a delegation to Abuja last week to hold talks with Nigerian authorities with a view to resolving the issue. N-Gaz is a joint venture company owned by NNPC, Shell and Chevron that delivers gas through the West African Gas Pipeline Company, WAGPCo, to Ghana. Federal Government of Nigeria had earlier received $10 million for its gas supply from government of Ghana a few days ago. A source in Ghana had maintained that the government has settled part of its debt to the West African Gas Pipeline Company, WAPCo, and Nigeria Gas Association, N-Gas, following the first round of talks with the Nigerian authorities. WAPCo, it was learnt had threatened to cut gas supply to Ghana over $180 million debt owed N-Gas. He said a high level government

delegation led by Power Minister Kwabena Donkor visited Abuja, Nigeria to discuss with government officials following WAPCo threat to cut gas supply. “Based on verbal communication we received last night that there is ongoing discussions about how VRA would meet the conditions that was set by N-GAs. So pending the result of that dis-

cussion, we have been asked by NGAs to hold on,” she said. Before then, WAPCo had expressed its readiness to help Ghana meet its energy needs, says Mr. Walter Perez, Managing Director. Speaking on the topic “Ghana’s Energy Needs: The role of the WAGP” at the sixth Ghana Oil and Gas Summit in Accra on April 23, 2015, Mr. Perez said the pipeline,

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Experts harp on mining sector potential for economy 30

which was initially constructed to transport natural gas from the East (Nigeria) to the West (Ghana) with one major shipper for at least a decade, has had to

adjust to take into account developments, which have occurred in the sub region, especially in Ghana, since the pipeline started operations in 2011.

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

Dana Air

L-R: Vice Chairman, Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG) and CEO, Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, Mrs. Sola David Borha; Chairman, NESG, Mr. Kyari Abba Bukar; Secretary to the Federal Government, Mr. Babachir David Lawal; Chairman, Phillips Consulting, Mr. Folusho Philips and CEO, Kainos Edge Consulting, Mrs. Wonu Adetayo at the closing of the 21st edition of Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja, recently.

South African Airways to commence flight to Abuja Olusegun Koiki

ne of the leading airlines in the continent, South African Airways, SAA, has unveiled plans to commence direct flight operations into Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, NAIA, Abuja from its base in Johannesburg, South Africa. The airline is starting the nonstop operations with three flights weekly, starting from January 26, 2016 with its modern Airbus 330200s aircraft. Prior to the commencement of the Abuja route, the Southern African carrier was operating eight times a week into the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Lagos. With the additional three, the

airline’s frequencies into Nigeria have increased to 11 weekly. Statement by its media consultant in Nigeria noted that the introduction of a second entry point to Nigeria was necessary in a bid to enhance trade and unlock mobility between the two countries and add to business travel options in the West African region. It further stated that adding a second gateway in Nigeria to SAA’s existing daily service to Lagos materially strengthens its position in West Africa, where it plays a significant role in enabling the movement of goods and people between Southern Africa and West Africa, thereby enhancing the growing trade and cultural exchanges between the two regions. The airline declared that the opening of Abuja route was made possible as a result of successful

introduction of Accra, Ghana to Washington Dulles, USA route, as a West African platform in August 2015. The statement recalled that SAA launched flights between Accra, Ghana and Washington DC in North America in cooperation with Africa World Airways about two months ago. Commenting on the development, SAA Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Sylvain Bosc posited that a second entry point in Nigeria was part of the airline’s long-term turnaround strategy, which he said identified growth on the African continent as one of its key objectives. He said that Nigeria as one of the fastest growing air travel markets in Sub-Saharan Africa would be well served with the additional services to Abuja.

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, October 22, 2015

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AfDB focuses on agricultural transformation SYLVA EMEKA-OKEREKE

frican Development Bank, AfDB, has unveiled its plans to tackle key challenges in Africa’s agricultural sector. Focusing on ways to alleviate poverty and hunger on the continent as well as spurring growth and creating jobs, the AfDB said, modernization of agricultural sector, access to credit and building robust value chains are designed to foster gender equality, building regional trade as well as developing agriculture.

“When agriculture is managed with modern production technologies and appropriate input and output markets, it is transformative: it wipes out poverty and overhauls entire rural economies”, AfDB President, Adesina said. Adesina said, African agriculture must move towards creating real wealth, saying “the questions we must tackle are how we get to the point where we are selling cocoa, instead of our cocoa beans and exporting textiles instead of our cotton.” About two-thirds of Afri-

ca’s employment is in the agriculture sector and the continent has about two-thirds of the world’s arable land, giving the sector huge potential. ‘’It imports food worth $35 billion annually. Worse still, 300 million Africans, that’s 1 in 4, suffer from hunger or

malnutrition’’, the statement added. AfDB is also producing a roadmap that would outline key actions required to deliver a strategy for transformation of African agriculture. Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economy, Ministers

of Agriculture, Rural Development, Trade and Industry as well as Governors of Central Banks joined business leaders, academia, investment agencies, civil society and global experts to discuss the future and transformation of agriculture in Africa.

Poverty is weighing down economic prospects –World Bank

n estimated 374 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa are living in extreme poverty, despite a formidable rise in health care and education. This was according to the Global Monitoring Report, where the World Bank made its deductions. “While the percentage of Africans living in poverty has decreased over time, the sheer numbers have grown. An estimated 284 million Africans lived in poverty in 1990,” the report stated. The report also said, “Poverty in a Rising Africa” made audacious calls for data to be collected on the state of poverty in Africa. Approximately 43 per cent of all people living in SubSaharan Africa lived in extreme poverty in 2012’’. The report also called for better measurement of poverty, saying that data gaps make it extremely difficult for policymakers to target programmes for the poor. The assembling of these statistics is estimated to cost $300 million every three years, the report also noted. World Bank Group President, Jim Yong Kim said “Africa’s economy is on the rise, but to avoid bypassing vulnerable people, whether in rural areas or in fragile states, we must improve how we measure human progress. Better data will tell us whether we’re delivering effective programmes that will help end extreme poverty by 2030 and boost shared prosperity among the poorest.” The report noted that despite the progress, more than 100 million Africans are living in poverty compared to 1990. “Africa’s extreme poor live mainly in rural areas to 65-70 percent of the population), while

the highest levels of inequality are recorded in Southern Africa, where six of the world’s 10 most unequal countries are located.” Conflict and violence have been identified as the most important factor slowing economic growth and even reversing potential gains. “While the number of largescale conflicts and civil wars has declined, criminality, drug trafficking, terrorism, and piracy at sea are on the rise. “Despite these challenges, Africa has made tremendous strides over the past 20 years amid unprecedented economic growth. Some countries have had impressive gains in poverty reduction, such as Ethiopia, Ghana, Rwanda and Uganda. Since 2000, the number of children dying from malaria has been reduced by 40 per cent, and under-five deaths from tetanus, peruses and measles have declined by 75 per cent’’, it stated.

African Standby Force (ASF) training opening ceremony on Monday

Leaders seek price on Carbon F or the first time, an unprecedented alliance of Heads of State, economic leaders with the support of heads of leading companies, have joined forces to urge countries and companies around the globe to put a price on carbon. The call to price carbon comes from the Carbon Pricing Panel, a group convened by World Bank Group President, Jim Yong Kim and International Monetary Fund, IMF, Managing Director, Christine Lagarde to spur faster action ahead of Paris climate talks.

These global leaders are calling on their peers to join them in pricing carbon to steer the global economy towards a low carbon, productive, competitive future without the dangerous levels of carbon pollution driving warming. Through, strong public policy they are providing certainty and predictability to the private sector, so they can make long-term investments in climate smart development. “There has never been a global movement to put a price on carbon at this level and with

SABMiller’s merger faces jobs battle

elgian brewer AnheuserBusch InBev may have won over peer SABMiller, but the $100 billion-plus deal could face delays in South Africa, where the British company began selling its ubiquitous Castle Lager 120 years ago. AB InBev’s reputation as a cost slasher has alarmed local unions in a country with a 25 percent unemployment rate and where the government has a track record of delaying deals while imposing strict conditions to prevent job losses. The world’s two biggest brewers agreed last week to create a company that would make almost a third of the globe’s beer. The Belgian company is by far the most profitable brewer, due to its austere operating culture

and its controlling shareholders have a history of streamlining companies they take over. “Given AB InBev’s propensity to cut costs down to the bone, job cuts appear to be inevitable,” Nic Norman-Smith, a fund manager at Lentus Asset Management, said. But that might not be easy in South Africa, where the mandate for anti-trust authorities includes safe-guarding jobs. The Congress of South African Unions (Cosatu) - part of the governing alliance with the ruling African National Congress - has already urged the government to not ratify a transaction that will create a company. “It’s highly likely the Competition Commission is certainly going to look over the deal with

a fine-tooth comb for any signs of job losses,” Norman-Smith said. SABMiller, formed from the 2002 combination of South African Breweries and Miller Brewing, traces its roots to the dusty gold-prospecting fields around Johannesburg in the 1800s. It now operates in 80 countries but in South Africa, it still employs roughly 8,800 people, or nearly 13 percent of its total. It contributed around 16 billion rand ($1.2 billion) to tax revenue in 2014/15 fiscal year. The government could “in the extreme” try and block the deal if it leads to tax base erosion in Africa’s most advanced economy, Lungisa Fuzile, director general at the National Treasury.

this degree of unison. It marks a turning point from the debate on the economic systems needed for low carbon growth to the implementation of policies and pricing mechanisms to deliver jobs, clean growth and prosperity,” World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim said. “The science is clear, the economics compelling and we now see political leadership emerging to take green investment to scale at a speed commensurate with the climate challenge.” “Finance ministers need to think about reforms to fiscal systems in order to raise more revenue from taxes on carbonintensive fuels and less revenue from other taxes that are detrimental to economic performance, such as taxes on labor and capital. They need to evaluate the carbon tax rates that will help them meet their mitigation pledges for Paris and accompanying measures to help low-income households vulnerable to higher energy prices,” the Managing Director of the IMF, Christine Lagarde said. Around the world, about 40 nations and 23 cities, states and regions have implemented a price on carbon with programme and mechanisms covering about 12 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. The number of implemented or scheduled carbon pricing instruments has nearly doubled since 2012, reaching an aggregate market value of about $50 billion.

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Business News

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Consumer Council to enforce ban on poultry products Olufemi Adeosun, Abuja

onsumer Protection Council (CPC) is set to begin a nationwide sensitization campaign and enforcements against smugglers of banned poultry products into the country. The Council’s Director General, Mrs. Dupe Atoki, disclosed this in Abuja at a meeting with members of Poultry Association of Nigeria. Mrs. Atoki stated that council would adopt a three-pronged approach against the existence of the products, which she identified to include sensitization of consumers on the dangers of the consumption of these products, removal of the products and collaboration with relevant stakeholders. She pointed out that the meeting was initiated as part of the strategies at forging necessary collaborations with the stakeholders, disclosing further that other engagements with rel-

evant Federal Ministries and the Customs Service had been mapped out. According to her, the Council has invited the Poultry Association of Nigeria to speak with them to the issues, adding that “we are aware that they have commissioned a study on the hazards and health implications of imported poultry products. “We have invited them to share with us, so that together we can have a holistic roadmap to engage the sector, and to bring to table of all Nigerians products that we know are safe and not hazardous, and products that will be made in Nigeria for Nigerians. “They are also to brief us on their suggested way forward in ensuring that these products are removed from the market, and their capacity for local production to bridge the gap” she added. On the enforcement activities, Atoki said the Council is willing to collaborate with the association to get necessary

Ericsson plans Smart City solutions delivery for Africa Isaiah Erhiawarien

The solution, which was showcased at the Transform Africa conference, held in Kigali, Rwanda. The vendor company said that given the fact that more than half of the world’s population already lives in cities and nearly 70 percent of people will be, it is particularly focused on contributing to smart and sustainable cities. Ericsson demonstrated the transformation that information and communications technology (ICT) and a truly networked society can deliver in building smart cities and a cashless society in Rwanda, particularly in the financial and transport sectors. The conference, hosted by Rwandan President, Paul Kagame, brought the continent’s top political and business leaders together to shape Africa’s digital transformation agenda. Ericsson demonstrated the Ericsson M-Commerce Interconnect and its solutions for intelligent transport, amongst

others saying that these solutions leverage on the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Government of Rwanda announced at Mobile World Congress 2015 to demonstrate Ericsson’s technology leadership and experience in delivering meaningful and tailored solutions to reach set objectives. The Ericsson M-Commerce Interconnect provides the total interconnection solution required to bring together all the players in the financial services area, and allow money to flow between them seamlessly, taking cash out of the system. According to the company, the system has the capacity to connect the formal financial sector with the semi-formal and informal particularly, the inclusion of Savings Co-operatives and Micro-finance players in the eco-system will allow more people to participate in main stream financial services, thus increasing financial inclusion saying that it showcases the M-Commerce Interconnect Switch, in partnership with MNOs, service providers and banks. Ericsson further demonstrated the efficiency of its solutions for intelligent transport that will help governments to better manage revenue collection in the public transportation system and create efficiency in the utilisation of the existing public transport capacity.

intelligence on sources of the importation of these banned products, cold rooms/ storage facilities, distribution outlets/ chains including markets, supermarkets, eateries, while enforcement strategies would be mapped out.

She hinted further that the Council’s decision became inevitable because the existence of these products was not only causing health hazards to the country’s citizens, but also constituting an economic sabotage.

Atoki said: “It bothers not only on health; it bothers also on the economy of the country. As long as you continue to import products that can be made in Nigeria, we are diminishing the opportunity for employment in Nigeria”.

L-R: Paramount Ruler of Nyenwe-Eli, Eze Gershon Odum; Managing Director, Nigeria America Line limited, Mr Pier Carrodano, and Coordinator, Nigerian Dredging Summit and Exhibition, Dr Edmund Chilaka, at the 9th Nigerian Dredging Summit in Port Harcourt.

MAN Oron spends N8bn on jetty, swimming pool Dare Akogun

aritime Academy of Nigeria, MAN, Oron, Akwa Ibom state may have spent a total of N8 billion on constructions of jetty and swimming pool in the last two years, according to information made available to National Mirror. It was reliably gathered that despite the huge amount spent on the project, the academy has not recorded any meaningful development. For instance, the school, established by the Federal Government in 1979, is still struggling to achieve adequate training for seafarers due to alleged mismanagement of resources.

The N8 billion, according to a source, accrued from the statutory 5 per cent released by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, to fund the academy. A source at MAN revealed that the management of the institution was not serious about the development of the academy. According to the source, no attempt has been made by the institution to provide training vessel for the academy from the fund released to the school by NIMASA. “There is infrastructure decay at MAN, Oron as students are sitting on the floor to receive lecture. The source explained. “The management has suddenly increased the tuition by 80 per cent. Our students are withdraw-

ing gradually because of the hike in tuition fees introduced by management”, the source stated. It was also gathered that the academy’s management raised the fees by 100 per cent with effect from the 2014/2015 session. Before the tuition was increased, the National Diploma (ND I) and higher National Diploma (HND I) cadets paid N100, 702, while ND II and HND II paid N61, 340. But with the increment, ND I and HND I students now pay N200, 704, while ND II and HND II cadets pay N121, 980. A lecturer at the academy alleged that thirty-five years after

its establishment, cadets of the academy were still sitting on the floor to receive lectures.

Expert calls for enforcement of town planning regulations

resident of Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, NITP, Mr Femi Olomola has called for enforcement of town planning regulations for well-organised settlements in the country. Olomola, who made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, said that a consortium of professionals from both public and private sectors could do the enforcement based on specific modalities. According to him, the town planners in government lack the

capacity and capability to bring about an ``adequate system” that will cope with the increasing level of development in terms of settlements. ``The issue of all these new settlements coming up, not conforming to the planning regulations, I think the fault is basically with the system, inadequate man power to enforce those regulations. ``Go to all the rural areas, go to even the urban fringes, the laws are there but we don’t have the machinery to enforce. ``One can say, okay, government should employ more hands

to look into the problem to enforce but the government hasn’t got the capability, they don’t have the capacity as well. ``To come up with what I consider an adequate system to actually cope with the level of developments here and there. ``Government should be looking at how they can privatise the town planning system. ``There is nothing fantastic about it which cannot be privatised; let there be a consortium of professionals, give them the brief and let them work out the modalities on how to achieve it.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Steel & Mining Industry

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Experts harp on mining sector potential for economy CHIDI UGWU, ABUJA

s Federal Government consider various options for the diversification of the economy, experts in the Nigeria’s mining industry have delineated the potentials of the sector saying it holds the key to the country’s economic transformation. A frontline mining consultant and one-time coordinator of the World Bank-Assisted Sustainable Management of Minerals Resources, Mr. Linus Adie, said that the economic potential lying untapped in the solid minerals sector were enormous, and can completely transform the economic fortunes of the country. “With dedicated funding and strict supervision of the sector, developing our solid minerals sphere is capable of elevating the country’s economic status beyond imagination,” he said. According to a report by Wardell Armstrong in May of 2007, there is documentary evidence that not less than 75 solid minerals of economic and commercial relevance abound in Nigeria. The report stated that economic minerals like coal, bitumen, iron, gold, emerald, diamond, limestone and feldspar are spread abundantly in almost all the states of the federation. “The Sustainable Management of Minerals Resources Project (SMMRP) was one of the best things to have happened in the solid minerals sector. The first thing we did was to come up with baseline studies of the field and offices and then identify areas of intervention. We introduced the mining code and then did a study of the fiscal regimes that were competitive with other countries in the world,” he said. But from the time of the launch of the SMMRP till present, not much can be said to have been achieved in the sector, especially as it concerns contribution to the country’s gross domestic product index and job creation, as well as exportation potentials. Rather, the sector has been subjected to the crude implements of artisanal and small-scale miners, illegal foreign miners and, most unfortunately, environmental degradation, ill-health and preventable deaths in local mining communities. Statistics show that the country has about 210,000 miners of which 90 per cent are currently informal, and according to the Nigerian Gross Domestic Product report of the National Bureau of Statistics, the contribution of mining and quarrying to the nominal GDP in the third quarter of 2014 was recorded at 10.26 per cent. This, according to stakeholders, can be considerably improved upon. Also speaking on the potential of

Mining site

the mining industry, the DirectorGeneral of the National Geological Survey Agency (NGSA), Mr. Ndubusi Nwegbu, pointed out that in terms of the upliftment of the general economic standard of this country, mining held the key. He pointed out that the industry’s potential t may not be to the extent of crude oil, but that it can can go very far and that in terms of employment generation, it will definitely surpass that of oil. Reports have it that successive Nigerian governments have shown little interest in adequately funding the minerals sector, leaving the Mines ministry to grapple with very scarce resources, which mostly is used to fund staff remuneration packages and other skeletal projects. According to the industry expert, if only government would re-orientate itself on the enormous benefits of properly funding the sector, the Nigerian economy would be better for it. Adie canvassed: “What we should be talking about now is a dedicated fund if we wish to develop the sector. Government needs to set aside funds to revamp the sector; making budgetary allocations alone won’t be of much help as there would be the regular political interference coming to bear,” he noted. But apart from dedicating special funds to the sector, experts also believe that proper government legislation would go a long way in addressing some of the bottlenecks encountered by prospective mining investors in the Nigerian solid minerals sphere. To this end, the immediate past

minister of Mines and Steel Development, Architect Musa Mohammed Sada, set in motion a number of activities aimed at getting Nigeria a sector-oriented, globally-attractive mining regulation document. Adie advised the present administration to give the sector the muchneeded attention, saying it would be an economically wise decision if the country indeed wants to diversify its income source. “Going forward, government needs to scale up the level of exploration on minerals considered to be strategic to the economic development of the country. The financial systems also need immediate strengthening. Mining must be mainstreamed in the MSME programmes. “Capacity building to local banks in evaluating mining projects is also important. The artisanal and small scale operators should be organized and given extension services, facilitate their access to finance and provide basic infrastructure for their growth. Short-term strategies should be articulated to add value and beneficiation of mineral products such as gemstone polishing and jewelry making, dimension stone and coal briquettes,” he advised. Professor of Mining Engineering, Olaniyan Zacheaus Opafunso of the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), said the creation of a solid mineral market would facilitate the growth of the sector and increase earnings, especially for small scale miners. “The Federal Government should create mineral buying and selling

markets for small-scale miners. If properly managed, the markets can generate a large proportion of earnings from artisanal and small-scale mining. Also, mining consultants and mineral property agents must be involved. These agents will facilitate the growth of a thriving minerals industry in Nigeria,” he suggested. But facilitating the growth of a thriving minerals industry might not be complete without removing bottlenecks such as the illegal activities of foreign miners. In his assessment, President of Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Alhaji Shehu Sani, condemned the illegal activities of foreign miners which he predicted could undermine the growth of the mining sector in Nigeria if not curbed. He said: “As far as mining in Nigeria is concerned, it is open to different players, some of them international players. This is because Nigeria, like most mining nations, is interested in attracting foreign investments. As such, encouragement is given to these foreign mining companies. “However, some of them come with questionable motives. They simply come to study government’s weakness in mining regulations, obtain exploration licences and start mining without legal mining permits. This is unacceptable,” Sani added. Industry analysts agreed that for the policies and other developmental initiatives in the sector to achieve the desired results, there was the need to harness more efficiently its untapped opportunities for national sustainable development.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Info Tech

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FG woos foreign investors with broadband The International Telecommunications Union, ITU, Telecom World held its 2015 Conference in Budapest, Hungry, where stakeholders across the globe, including Nigeria gathered to discuss the potential of broadband, aimed at wooing investors to the sector. Isaiah Erhiawarien reports.

or several years, Nigeria has been a guest of the United Nations, attending the International Telecommunications Union, ITU, Telecom World conference, but none of such conference has been as impressive as the 2015 event. This is because the growing quest for broadband internet access in the country, couple with its attendant lacks, has become a rallying point for key stakeholders from Nigeria, who graced the occasion. Nigeria businessmen, who were at the event, it was gathered, seized the opportunity to woo global investment community into its broadband market. Stakeholders latched on the giant strides achieved in the nation’s telecoms sector to lure potential investors into the nation’s broadband market. Led by the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, which carried the nation’s flag to the event, the stakeholders unveiled key programmes held by the country, such as the Nigerian Day and Night to highlight key investment areas, especially in broadband to potential investors. For instance, at the Nigerian Day was attended by telecoms investors from across the world, the Nigerian Pavilion partnered with MainOne, Glo1, Airtel, Digital Bridge Institute, Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited, Galaxy backbone Limited Phase3 Telecoms, Etisalat, Zinox and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and WACS to showcase the huge opportunities abound in the country. Addressing a gathering of investors, regulators and top officials of ITU led by its Secretary General, Houlin Zhao at the Nigeria Day, during the officially opening of the Nigerian Pavilion to investors, the Acting Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta, said “we have come to ITU this year with a clear message to investors by asking you to come to Nigeria to invest because your investments are safe in Nigeria.” Recalling how the development strides of Nigeria in telecoms, Danbatta, who was represented by the Executive Commissioner, Technical Services at NCC, Engr. Ubale Maska, said for a country as big and strategic as Nigeria, telecoms did not become a major socio-economic activity until 2001. He told investors willing to come to Nigeria that they would experience tremendous growth in the next 10 years, saying that until 2001, the country had about 400,000 active phone lines. He disclosed that it was the determination of the new democratic government and the refocusing and empowerment of the regulators instigated a market explosion, whose ripples have continued to spread, drawing global attention to Nigeria and eliciting deserved recognition from global bodies such as ITU, which has since seen the NCC as a good regulatory reference point. “Today in Nigeria, despite the landing of over 10 terabyte of undersea cables in our shores, a lot of Internet access is not actually broadband,” said Dambatta. “You get some semblance of broadband in major cities such as Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt and other Grade ‘A’ cities. But in most part of the country, the traditional slow internet access is the order of the day.”

According to him, despite all the growth the industry has seen, the Nigerian Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry is still in need of a lot of investment. Commenting, a member of the Broadband Council, Engr. Lanre Ajayi said that Nigeria currently has a target to achieve 30 per cent broadband penetration by 2018 in line with its National Broadband Policy (NBP) approved by the Federal Government in 2013. He noted that till date, broadband penetration stands at 10 per cent up from six per cent two years ago, saying that penetration is still very low when compared with the success so far recorded in the mobile telephony segment. Statistics from global research firm, Pyramid Research and McKinsey revealed that since 2001, the telecoms industry has grown significantly, making Nigerian telecoms market an optimistic one. The two research firm predicted that Nigeria will remain an investment haven

Dambatta

for telecoms business in years to come. The statistics showed that today, the country has over 150 million active telephone lines with a teledensity of 107.67 per cent and over 93 million mobile devices connected to the Internet adding that low-cost of entry of most feature and smart phones as well as the reduction in access cost is resulting in increased Internet subscriptions. Analyst at the global event noted that a large number of Internet users don’t have access to the high-speed Internet service and this has informed the desire of the country to woo investors into coming to Nigeria to invest in its broadband market. According to analyst, Nigeria’s telecoms investment profile has witnessed a meteoric rise, sending very clear signals that Nigeria is the market to be for discerning investors noting that a market with an investment value of about $50 million in 2000 is worth over $32 billion today. Director, Policy, Competition and Eco-

There is nothing you can do now without needing the Internet, as access and broadband is the infrastructure that enables high-speed Internet, video

streaming and other heavy data

nomic Analysis, Ms. Josephine Amuwa, who was also at the forum said that the country’s desire to preach investment opportunities in broadband sector to the investment community at ITU World Telecom 2015 was timely. She said: “The key message we bought to ITU this year is the issue of our broadband expansion. Broadband is the future, as there is hardly anything one seeks to do in today’s digital economy more efficiently and effectively that is not increasingly requiring access to the Internet. “There is nothing you can do now without needing the Internet, as access and broadband is the infrastructure that enables high-speed Internet, video streaming and other heavy data. Since we have conquered voice with over 150 million subscribers in Nigeria, the new phase is the broadband and that was one key message that we passed to the whole world here during our Opening Day. “We told investors to come and invest in Nigeria with the assurances that their investment is safe and the investment we are looking for majorly is the investment in broadband infrastructure.” KPMG, a global consultancy firm declare last year that over the next five years, Nigeria would need to push for an average investment of N2 billion annually into its telecoms sector towards building a robust next-generation broadband network nationwide. This represents an investment gap of about $10 billion in the next five years.

Info Tech

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Libratone brings flair to next-gen wireless speakers

Experts tasks FG on enabling environment for SMEs Stories by Isaiah Erhiawarien

xperts have noted that for government to experience economic growths, it would need to create an enabling environment for small and medium scale business to explore the potential of technology. Experts in a survey to highlight the importance of how business impacts changes in marketplace revealed that 100 per cent respondents consider it crucial to remain abreast with local and global occurrences. However, a staggering 62.5 per cent of respondents admitted they are not in touch with market changes with 25 per cent respondents stating that they are either unaware of customer needs or find themselves incapable of adapting to the changing market demands. Managing Director of 4most, a technology firm, Mr. Marius Fabian said the role of technology

ou may have never heard of Libratone, but liked its original Zipp now called the Classic Zipp one of the best first-generation portable WiFi speakers on the market. Last year the Danish start-up was acquired by a Hong Kongbased consortium and got a big cash infusion to develop new products and aggressively expand with a new brand strategy that includes more affordable pricing. It returns with not one but two new Zipp speakers, the Zipp (2015) and smaller Zipp Mini. Both include WiFi streaming via Apple AirPlay, as well as Bluetooth streaming. The speaker also offers DLNA support for Windows and Android users. A DLNAcertified device uses standard computer networking protocols to allow you to share media on a network. With its more rounded edges and compact form factor, the Mini’s a bit more eye-catching. But the standard Zipp does deliver more bass and sounds a bit fuller. Both offer 360-degree sound similar to other cylindri-

cal speakers as the UE Boom 2. And both are rated for 8-10 hours of battery life depending on volume levels. The speakers come with a new companion app for iOS and Android -- SoundSpace Link that lets you connect up to 6 speakers via Wi-Fi. AirPlay for audio streaming has been hampered by hiccups and a somewhat challenging set up, but Libratone says that’s changed and promises a much simpler AirPlay set-up process. (We’ll let you know how the set up and new app works when we get our review samples). It’s worth noting that since the Zipp and Zipp Mini are fairly substantial speakers with 100-watt and 60-watt power ratings respectively (we take those ratings with a grain of salt), they require their own AC adapter and can’t be charged with a standard micro USB cable. However, they do offer a USB charging port to juice

up your mobile devices, as well as an audio input. Last but not least there’s an microphone for making speakerphone calls.

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has never been more critical in Africa’s small and medium-sized marketplace, highlighting the need to respond to changing market demands, enabled by access to real-time and accurate information, which technology provides. According to him, these market changes, defined as Megatrends, are large, transformative global forces that define the future by having a far-reaching impact on business, economies, industries, societies and individuals. “It starts with keeping your finger on the pulse of a dynamic and constantly evolving marketplace,” Fabian stated, adding that being aware of the impact of these changes on business and industry is just the first step. “It is the ability to react, and adapt, quickly and seamlessly that is crucial not only to retaining one’s competitive edge, but more critically to business survival”, he said. Fabian added that technology

is providing the global and local medium sized marketplace with the tools needed to do just that stressing, “Access to key, real-time and business relevant information is providing business owners with an accurate and in depth analysis of their company and its position in the marketplace.” He said further that this, in turn, is providing them with greater insight into their own capability together with a realistic projected outcome should any of the required internal changes be implemented. He cited the classic example of a new technology, product requirement or imminent trend that leaves a business with no choice but to adapt. “When faced with this situation, it is critical to be able to predict the profitability and impact of these changes,” continued Fabian noting that a business will also need to have a clear understanding of both the required steps and necessary resources.

L-R: Nigeria’s Amb. to Hunagry, Muhammadu Yunusa; Secretary General, International Telecommunications Union, Mr. Houlin Zhao; Director, Policy, Competition and Economic Analysis at Nigerian Communications Commission, Ms. Josephine Amuwa and Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, NCC, Engr. Ubale Maska at the Nigeria Day opening ceremony of the ITU Telecom World 2015 in Budapest, Hungary.

Huawei advises FG on speedy spectrum allocation

he spate of innovation across the globe has propelled telecoms infrastructure and vendor company, Huawei to ask the International Telecommunications Union, ITU, to prevail on countries across the world, particularly Nigeria to speed up the allocation of spectrum. There have been delays in the allocation spectrum, which the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, advertised several months ago, thereby delaying the efficient use of such spectrum. Speaking during the showcasing of its latest concepts and its global experience in areas such as facilitating the telecom industry’s transformation using ICT, spectrum allocation, and building a

Better Connected World at the ITU Telecom World 2015 in Budapest, Hungary, Huawei said that spectrum is the engine that drives national economic development. President of Huawei Carrier BG, Zou Zhilei, said that more spectrum resources can accelerate the adoption of broadband by individuals and households, and support the development of the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart cities adding that “all these can fuel ICT innovation. Over the next five years, mobile broadband deployment needs at least 2 GHz of spectrum.” According to him, the frequency bands, which have been identified at World Radio Communication Conference 2007 (WRC-07)

and WRC-12, should be allocated as soon as possible as the industry chain was ready a long time ago. He noted that at the upcoming WRC-15, all industry partners should work together to push for the allocation of Sub-700 MHz, LBand, and C-Band to pave the way for the innovation of IoT, 4.5G, and 5G saying, “We call for spectrums to be allocated at reasonable prices with large spectrum release, so that governments and operators can jointly promote the development of the MBB industry and share the benefits of the digital economy empowered by ICT.” He said further that Huawei proposes building ultrafast, ubiquitous, and affordable national broadband networks.

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Info Tech

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Government Technology

Ericsson plans smart city solution for Africa Stories by Isaiah Erhiawarien

head of the 2050 urbanisation target, Ericsson has showed solutions for a smart Africa for networked society in which connectivity is the starting point for new ways of innovating, collaborating and socialising. The solution, which was showcased at the Transform Africa conference, held in Kigali, Rwanda, the vendor company said that given the fact that more than half of the world’s population already lives in cities and nearly 70 percent of people will be, it is particularly focused on contributing to smart and sustainable cities. Ericsson demonstrated the transformation that information and communications technology (ICT) and a truly networked society can deliver in building smart cities and a cashless society in Rwanda, particularly in the financial and transport sectors. The conference, hosted by Rwandan President, Paul Kagame, brought the continent’s top political and business leaders together to shape Africa’s digital transformation agenda. Ericsson demonstrated the Ericsson M-Commerce Interconnect and its solutions for intelligent transport, amongst

others saying that these solutions leverage on the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Government of Rwanda announced at Mobile World Congress 2015 to demonstrate Ericsson’s technology leadership and experience in delivering meaningful and tailored solutions to reach set objectives. The Ericsson M-Commerce Interconnect provides the total interconnection solution required to bring together all the players in the financial services area, and allow money to flow between them seamlessly, taking cash out of the system. According to Ericsson, the system has the capacity to connect the formal financial sector with the semi-formal and informal particularly, the inclusion of Savings Co-operatives and Micro-finance players in the eco-system will allow more people to participate in main stream financial services, thus increasing financial inclusion saying that it showcases the M-Commerce Interconnect Switch, in partnership with MNOs, service providers and banks. Ericsson further demonstrated the efficiency of its solutions for intelligent transport that will help governments to better manage revenue collection in the public transportation system and create efficiency in the utilidsation of the existing public transport

Specialist, Enterprise Marketing, Etisalat Nigeria, Mr. Femi Oguntimehin, Chief Financial Officer, Netplus Advisory,Mr. Deji Salami; Chief Executive Officer, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Ladi Balogun and Head, Enterprise Marketing, Etisalat Nigeria, Mr. Bidemi Ladipo at the Etisalat-sponsored Webmall Connect Commerce Conference 2015 in Lagos.

capacity. It comes with automated fare collection system that uses prepaid bus cards with onboard tap-to-pay system or mobile payment solution removing cash from the system permitting better revenue accounting and tax collection. Added to the solution is a fleet management solution that gives the operator real time visibility of the buses as well as passenger locations allowing for better management of the route used by the buses to give

the passengers the best travel experience. Ericsson said that it also provides passenger information system which provides interactive interface for the passengers to receive real time information about the bus timetables and running times, allowing passengers to plan their journeys more efficiently. According to Ericsson President for sub-Saharan Africa, Fredrik Jejdling, ICT is creating a vast amount of new opportunities for people, busi-

ness and society adding that at Ericsson we use our ICT expertise to provide innovative solutions and services across a variety of industries that play a key role in enabling digital transformation in Africa. He said: “We are especially excited about the impending industry transformation in Rwanda. Seeing first hand that it can be done here in our region is a powerful message for the rest of Africa and we are proud to be at this conference to bring this message forward.”

Financial Technology

Council warns on fibre connection

he Fibre To The Home (FTTH) Council Africa has warned that fibre companies operating in the African market to check on the validity and sustainability of their service. According to the Council in press statement detailing the accepted definition of true FTTH connectivity, it said that Fibre To The Home (FTTH) dramatically increases the connection speeds available to computer users compared with technologies now used in most places, or at least it should, and for this reason everybody wants an FTTH connection. “It can only provide these raging speeds it promises if the topology is an end-to-end fibre connection. Since most FTTH networks are terrestrial

(deployed below the ground) how do you really know that your connection is an FTTH connection?”, the organisation stated. Chief Executive Officer of the FTTH Council Africa, Juanita Clark said that today FTTH is a brand adding, “It is the same as referring to a specific model of sports car. However, unlike a sports car you cannot lift the hood to see under the bonnet to determine if all the parts are ‘certified genuine’ and consumers have to rely on what you are told/sold.” “The Fibre Council Global Alliance is the global body of FTTH Councils from around the world. Not only do this group subscribe to a MOU, but it also tackles issues of global importance, amongst it a document

that is revisited that deals with definitions. This document has become the globally accepted terms of reference for FTTH installers and operators” she said. She added that the aim of this document is to ensure that there are no ambiguity with regards to the definition of, amongst other, the term FTTH stressing that the definitions document the accepted definition for FTTH is defined as an access network architecture in which the final connection to the subscriber’s premises is optical fibre. “In order to guarantee FTTH speeds, the network must be an end to end fibre optic connection. Any other technology as part of its architecture will influence the rapidity and may result in lower up and download

speeds,” the Council said. “FTTH Council Africa members subscribe to a Code of Conduct and therefore must provide true FTTH connectivity according to the definitions document. When looking for an FTTH solution it is recommended to do some investigation and ask if your selected partner is a member of the FTTH Council Africa”, Clark said. “Market forces indicate that there will be many new entrants that want to capitalise on the high demand. Consumers need to ensure that they employ sustainable solutions. The bottom line is that FTTH members properly designed and deployed fibre network, users will always get the speeds that are advertised or better and a big part of our mandate is to protect the

good name of FTTH” she concluded. The annual FTTH conference begins on 20 October in Kigali, Rwanda. The event is described as being an opportunity for industry to discuss ways to educate stakeholders on the brand of FTTH and the strategic use of this resource. Several telecommunications service providers have announced developments within the FTTH space, including MTN, Telkom SA, Liquid Telecom and MultiChoice. In March this year the FTTH Council Africa, in collaboration with Africa Bandwidth Maps, announced the launch of a survey to determine the fibre network reach in Africa and the continent’s most connected cities.

Global News

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Verizon revenue beats as promotions attract postpaid users

erizon Communications Inc reported betterthan-expected quarterly revenue and profit as heavy promotions helped the company attract postpaid subscribers amid the launch of Apple Inc’s new iPhones. The largest U.S. wireless service provider has been facing stiff competition from companies such as T-Mobile US Inc and Sprint Corp, who have been offering massive discounts on call and data plans. Apple launched the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus in September, triggering heavy promotional activity in the telecoms industry towards the end of the third

quarter. Verizon shares rose about 2 percent in premarket trading on Tuesday. The company net added 1.3 million wireless retail postpaid subscribers in the quarter compared with 1.1 million in the second quarter. Drexel Hamilton analyst Barry Sine said the subscriber numbers were slightly better than expected. However, Verizon’s average revenue per account (ARPA) declined to $152.38 from $153.73. As its ARPA comes under pressure, Verizon is entering new markets such as mobile

Apple iPhone

video and “Internet of Things” - the concept of connecting everything from industrial machines to household devices to the Internet - to boost its earnings. Revenue from its Internet of Things and related offerings rose to about $175 million from $165 million in the prior quarter. Revenue from FiOS highspeed Internet, TV and phone service rose 7.5 per cent from a year earlier to $3.4 billion. The net income attributable to Verizon rose 9.3 per cent to $4.04 billion, or 99 cents per share, in the quarter ended Sept. 30. Excluding items, the company earned $1.04 per share, slightly higher than the average analyst estimate of $1.02, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S. Total operating revenue rose five per cent to $33.16 billion, beating analysts’ expectations of $32.94 billion. Verizon shares were trading at $45.50 before the bell. Up to Monday’s close, the stock had fallen about 4.5 per cent this year.

Yum Brands to separate China business after investor pressure

um Brands Inc (YUM.N) said it intended to split off its China business, which has been besieged by food scandals and marketing missteps, bowing to pressure from an activist shareholder. Yum’s shares rose 4.6 percent in premarket trading. Yum China will operate as a publicly traded company and become a franchisee of Yum Brands in mainland China, paying the parent a percentage of its sales for exclusive rights to three of the company’s brands - KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. The split will allow Yum Brands to focus on reenergizing

China President Xi Jinping

its stagnating business in the United States as well as expand in emerging markets such as India. It will also give shareholders a steady stream of income from royalties while allowing Yum to take lease obligations off its balance sheet. “The separation of these two businesses gives shareholders the choice to own a growing annuity-like franchise cash flow stream, as well as the leading restaurant concept in a country with the fastest-growing consumer class,” activist investor Keith Meister told Reuters in an email. Meister, whose hedge fund Corvex Management owns nearly 5 percent of the company, had been pushing for a reorganization for many months. He was appointed to its board last week. Yum Brands entered China in 1987 through its KFC brand, making it one of the first U.S. fast-food chains to set up operations there. For years, the China business took the lead in driving sales for the company as a growing middle class frequented the restaurants that customized menus for the Chinese palate. Sales have, however, faltered

in the past several quarters as the business has been beset by multiple problems ranging from a meat scandal to marketing missteps, coupled with a slowing economy that has made eating out less popular. “Yum Brands will trade at a higher multiple because it’s a better business now that it’s not attached to Yum China,” Hedgeye Risk Management analyst Howard Penney said. The China business contributed 57 percent to Yum’s total revenue and 54 percent to its operating profit in its latest quarter. Yum Brands will be led by its current Chief Executive Greg Creed and Yum China will be led by Micky Pant, who was named the CEO of the China business in August. The separation, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2016, is intended to be tax free to shareholders. Goldman Sachs is the financial adviser to Yum Brands, while Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz and Mayer Brown are its legal advisers. PJT Partners is serving as an independent financial adviser to the company’s board.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Harley-Davidson third-quarter profit falls, plans job cuts

arley-Davidson Inc. (HOG.N) said on Tuesday it would chop jobs to help fund increased spending on marketing and product development as it posted a lower quarterly net profit due to weaker global sales. The company’s shares plummeted nearly 10 per cent as its earnings fell below analysts’ forecasts, and the company cut its 2015 operating profit guidance. The company said it plans to incur a one-time charge of $30 million to $35 million in the fourth quarter for reorganization costs and job cuts. It now expects full-year 2015 operating profit margin of approximately 16 per cent to 17 per cent for the motorcycles segment, compared to prior guidance of 18 percent to 19 per cent. It also cut its forecast for the shipment of motorcycles in the United States, where sales fell 2.5 per cent in the third quarter and market share declined by 3.9 per cent. Worldwide sales fell by more than one per cent, cushioned by an 0.9 increase in international sales, and the company said its reorganization plans included opening up to 200

Matt Levatich

new dealerships abroad. The iconic motorcycle manufacturer has faced headwinds during the year including increased competition from foreign motorcycle manufacturers who have slashed prices. The strong U.S. dollar has translated into softer overseas sales due to the unfavorable foreign exchange. Harley-Davidson is traditionally a market leader is the United States, but with U.S. sales lagging the company has revised its full-year 2015 shipment outlook down to 265,000 to 270,000 which is flat to two per cent lower than in 2014. The latest shipment projection was revised downward from previous guidance of 276,000 to 281,000.

Lockheed increases sales of F-35 jets

ockheed Martin Corp (LMT.N), the Pentagon’s No. 1 weapons supplier, reported better-than-expected quarterly results on higher demand for its F-35 fighter jets, and said it expects fullyear revenue at the higher end of its forecast. Revenue at Lockheed’s aeronautics division increased about 11 percent to $3.92 billion in the third quarter, with $500 million coming from additional sales of the F-35 fighter jet, it said on Tuesday. Lockheed is developing and building F-35 jets for the U.S. military and nine other countries. With estimated development and procurement costs of $391 billion for the United States alone, the F-35 is the world’s most expensive weapons program. Lockheed did not address the timing of its planned purchase of Sikorsky Aircraft, but United Technologies Corp (UTX.N), which owns Sikorsky, expects to close the deal in the fourth quarter. Excluding the Sikorsky deal and

F35 Jet

a strategic review aimed at selling or spinning off its services businesses, Lockheed said 2016 sales should be comparable with 2015. Total operating margin should range from 11.0 percent to 11.5 percent, down from the expected margin of about 12 percent in 2015, it said. The company sees 2015 sales of $45 billion, and segment operating profit of $5.4 billion. It had forecast sales of $43.5 billion to $45 billion, with segment operating profit of $5.225 billion to $5.375 billion. Lockheed also forecast earnings per share of $11.30 in 2015, the high end of its earlier forecast of $11.00 to $11.30. Analysts, on average, looked for 2015 sales of $44.82 billion, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S. Lockheed said it had $2.4 billion in potential cost and termination liability exposure, given its decision to self-fund work on C-130J transport planes and F-35 jets for the U.S. government while contracts are being negotiated.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Brands & Marketing

More Nigerians view ads on mobile than TV – Report A new report indicates that more Nigerians view advertisement on their mobile apps than multi media. DAVID AUDU reports on this trend as well as implications of digital advertising and opportunities for marketers.

ow are video advertising viewed on screen and for how long? What do people think of video ads on screen and how can brands create ads that connect with consumers and that viewers will not skip? These and many more are some of the questions that often agitate the minds of advertisers and marketing executives. As a response to these and in an effort to aid effective targeting of ads, a recent research report has tried to unravel the behaviour of consumers with the aim of guiding digital marketers for optimum results. There is no doubt that digital is the future of advertising business and this is becoming increasingly obvious as organisations of all sizes in a wide range of industries tailor their advertising story line to get more audience views. The challenge of digital advertising always has been how to measure adspent to commensurate consumer patronage and returns However, the emergence of new technologies is helping to overcome some of these challenges, and at the same time keep advertisers up to date on consumer viewership across channels, trends and preferences. This is where a report from Millward Brown AdReaction, in a recent research becomes relevant. The report examines video use and creative response across screens and the impact for marketers. The study, released recently, analyzes multiscreen use and behavior among more than 13,500 consumers across 42 countries and, also includes learning from parallel copy testing conducted across TV, online video and mobile video ads. In the report, multiscreen users were defined as people who own, or have access to a TV and a smartphone

Tablets and smartphones

THE STUDY FOUND THAT IN NIGERIA, AMONG MULTISCREEN USERS BETWEEN AGES 16 TO 45, VIDEOS ARE VIEWED FOR UP TO FOUR HOURS AND A HALF DAILY, THAT IS ABOUT 272 MINUTES ON THE AVERAGE and/or a tablet. According to Millward Brown, the findings are expected to help marketers understand how, where and why people view video; when consumers are open to advertising, and which creative approaches work best on each screen. The study found that in Nigeria, among multiscreen users between ages 16 to 45, videos are viewed for up to four

hours and a half daily that is about 272 minutes on the average. While half of this video viewing, about 134 minutes, is on TV, one-third view through mobile devices, about 70 minutes on smartphone, 24 minutes tablet, and the remainder 45 minutes is viewed on laptops or PCs. The stressed that while digital presents a significant advertising opportunity for marketers, receptivity to digital video advertising is much lower with 41 percent favourable disposed to it compared to 58 per cent who show preference for live TV ads. The report also noted that “while video is now available on myriad screens, applying TV thinking to digital content and placement is simply not acceptable, adding that consumers expect more from online advertisers.” Commenting on the new report, Millward Brown’s Global Brand Director for Digital, Duncan Southgate, said “by exploring behaviors and preferences related to screens and advertising, the report provides a roadmap to help marketers build effective media plans and creative approaches that target the right people in the right context with the right content.” The AdReaction Video report also identified a number of opportunities

for marketers to drive video creative effectiveness and success. One of these opportunities include the realisation that while people are receptive to targeting, but they do not want to be stalked. The report also found that about 58 percent of consumers are most likely to be receptive to video ads targeted at them based on their interests or preferred brands; while at least, 37 percent are receptive to ads based on their online search history. The report further show that even though web browsing behavior may drive interest-based targeting, this implies that sensitive application of targeting is likely to work best. Further analysis of the report shows that about 20 percent of consumers tend to show negative behaviours toward video ads on smartphones. Again, the report shows that advertisers need to earn the right for attention. According to the report, this is seen in about 60 percent of consumers who said they were less likely to skip, and pay more attention to video ads that offer rewards, and they were most receptive to skip and click-to-play ad formats that provide control over what they see. On the issue of the role advertising contents in driving viewership, the finding believes content is still king. The findings noted on the need to consider digital early in the creative process, with an eye toward optimization across screens. “And while shippable formats are a creative challenge, they are worth the focus; aim for early impact”. Additional key findings from AdReaction highlighted are the facts that consumers feel that they have more control over digital ads than TV ads, with the majority, about 79 per cent, believing the digital devices give them the most control. This also explains their irritation by online ad formats which fail to respect this control, noted the report. In addition, the report states that consumers favour skippable pre-rolls ads by 45 percent and skippable mobile pre-rolls by 57 percent ahead of mobile app pop-ups, which viewership percentage stand at 34 percent. However, the most popular ad format is mobile app reward videos. With 60 percent in favour. Overall the report concludes that consumers are slightly more receptive to viewing video ads while at home, scoring 53 percent compared to 44 per cent while at work.

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Cleaner wins N1m in Peak ‘Reach for Millions’ promo DAVID AUDU

hotel cleaner, Amaka Agilibeazu, was a million naira richer in the ongoing Peak ‘Reach for Millions’ promo. Amaka Agilibeazu, a hotel cleaner in the city of Enugu before becoming an instant millionaire through Peak promo The school certificate holder and mother of one who resides in Enugu told reporters she saw the advert of the promo on a television adverts but never expect to win as big as a million naira. “Actually, when I was playing in the promo by sending codes, I never thought I could win as big as a million naira and now, to God be the glory; Peak has made me an unexpected millionaire. She also claimed she never believed it when a text message was sent to her that she had won a million naira in the promo “When I saw the message that I have won a million naira, I did not

believe it because I was not expecting to win up to a million naira. I only tried my luck and see if I could win N50,000 or N100,000 but fortunately God has another plan for me through peak milk-I won a million naira.” She stated. Amaka who was at the cheque presentation ceremony with her husband narrated how she felt when she was informed she had won a million naira in the peak promo. “I can’t express how I felt when I received a text that I’ve won a million naira in the peak promo, it was like a miracle. “I showed the text to my sister who didn’t really believe it also; but she however advised we should wait for their call. Of course they did call us and as I am talking to you N1 million is in my account right now courtesy of peak milk. “It was as if I was dreaming, a million naira, just like that. I can never forget that moment; it was amazing and so exciting.

“When they called me eventually to confirm I have won a million naira, I jumped up and fell rolling on the ground.” Joyous Amaka who described peak’s largesse as ‘a rare magnanimous privilege’ also hinted on her plans with the cash reward. “It is a thing of joy when one’s life transformed unexpectedly and that was what peak has done. I strongly believe this money will transform our lives, it’s a rare magnanimous privilege and we will never forget this quickly. “With this money from peak, I will definitely resign as a hotel cleaner and open a big provision retail shop with part of the money. Secondly, I will fix a certain amount for my child’s education and also support my husband in his business.” The hotel cleaner who believes she now have a bright future however thanked FrieslandCampina WAMCO, makers of Peak for the laudable promo.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Adetu chairs Africa Retail Congress in S A DAVID AUDU

ormer Managing Director of Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Seni Adetu, is billed to lead an array of panelists and discussants as Chairman at the 2015 Retail Congress Africa organised by i2i Events Group, an international events and trade exhibitions company. The 2015 Retail Congress Africa which will hold early week in November, 2015 in South Africa, will have as its theme, “Driving the pillars of growth: Expansion, Innovation, Operational Excellence and Consumer Knowledge.” The congress, launched in 2013 and which serves as the only dedicated and premier C-level strategic retail congress specific to Pan-African markets, is expected to bring together senior members from both the domestic and international retailer businesses who would hold discussions on how to advance and accelerate the growth of retail markets in Africa’s budding economy with a view to maximise the opportunities available on the continent.

UK adspend grows to record six-month high of £9.4bn

L -R: One million Naira Winner of the Peak Reach for Millions Promo, Mrs. Amaka Agbilibeazu, receives her cheque from Area Sales Manager, Enugu, FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria Plc, Mr. Faith Kukogho, at the Peak Reach for Millions Promo Prize Presentation held in Enugu recently.

Guinness supports NYSC rural dwellers health initiatve DAVID AUDU

uinness Nigeria has empowered the National Youth Service Corps Rural Dwellers’ Health Initiative through the provision of essential medicines. These drugs were formally handed over to the NYSC at a flag-off ceremony, which held in Olorunda Local Council Development Area in Badagry, Lagos State. The Rural Dwellers’ Health Initiative provides a unique platform for corps members who are medical professionals - Doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists and Medical Laboratory Scientists - to provide free healthcare services to Nigerians living in remote, rural communities. Speaking at the event, DirectorGeneral of the NYSC, Brig. Gen.

Johnson Olawumi, underlined the need to make quality healthcare accessible to all Nigerians, especially people living in hard-to-reach rural communities. He also commended Guinness Nigeria for the timely and auspicious donation. “We appreciate Guinness Nigeria for this laudable effort. There is no doubt that the donation will go a long in enhancing the quality of care which corps members will deliver to beneficiaries of this initiative,” he said. Guinness Nigeria’s Corporate Relations Director, Mr. Sesan Sobowale noted that the donation is in keeping with Guinness Nigeria’s commitment to creating thriving communities across the country.Mr. Sobowale who was represented by the company’s Sustainable Develop-

ment Manager, Mr. Osita Abana, also commended the NYSC for providing a platform where rural dwellers are able to access quality healthcare at no cost. “This Rural Dwellers’ Health Initiative is indeed a laudable programme. We recognise that it will help improve the health and wellbeing of many Nigerians.We are therefore pleased to support the NYSC as it flags off the programme today,” Abana said. The Deputy Governor of Lagos state, Dr. Mrs Oluranti Adebule, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mr. Michael Daodu, urged residents of the community to take advantage of the week-long medical intervention by visiting consultation centres for free treatment.

The event also provides an invaluable opportunity for retailers to share ideas, be inspired by over 50 expert speakers and network with those directing the future of the industry. Prominent among leaders already confirmed for the Congress are Greg Solomon, CEO McDonalds, South Africa, and Therese Gearhart, President, South Africa, The CocaCola Company. Other leading Nigerian professionals expected to speak at the congress include, Managing Director, L’Oreal Central West Africa, Idy Enang;, Chief Executive Officer, House of Tara, Tara Fela-Durotoye; and Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Smart Mark Limited, Layi Gobir,. Regarded as one of Nigeria’s most astute business administrators, Seni Adetu, is a corporate icon of immense status having had a distinguished 30 years non-stop working experience with multinational companies at home and abroad. He is also a former runner-up, Forbes CEO of the year, East Africa

dspend in the UK grew to a record high of £9.42 billion in the first half of the year, according to the latest Advertising Association/Warc Expenditure Report. UK advertising expenditure grew by 5.8 per cent, according to the report. Internet spends for H1 2015 increased by 13.3 per cent to £3.98 billion. The strong growth in digital spends with driven by mobile, which accounted for 79 per cent. Mobile adspend grew by 52.1 per cent and broke the billion pound barrier for a six-month period for the first time, coming in at £1.08 billion. £1.63 billion was spent on mobile for the whole of 2014. The UK recorded the highest spend on mobile advertising in Europe and the third highest globally, after the US and China.

Total UK adspend was £18.58 billion last year, with the internet making up £7.22 billion (38.9 per cent), followed by TV on £4.91 billion (26.4 per cent). TV grew by 7.1 per cent for the first half of 2015, but this does not include video on demand adspend, which is counted as “internet”. Tim Lefroy, the chief executive of the Advertising Association, said: “Advertising’s resilience points to the strength of the broader economy in the first half. “The UK leads the world in ecommerce and the trend to mobile means serving the public better – ads in the right place at the right time.” Advertising spend is predicted to break the £20bn barrier in 2016, with a 5.8 per cent rise in 2015 and a 5.3 per cent rise in 2016.

Big Cola launches in Ibadan

KEMI OLAITAN

subsidiary of AJE Group, AJEAST Nigeria Limited, producer of carbonated soft drinks, Big Cola, which recently launched in Lagos, has once again demonstrated its resolve to bringing quality products to satisfy the yearnings of consumers in the Nigeria. The Country Manager in Nigeria, Mr. Theo Williams, while addressing consumers in Ibadan, the Oyo State and its environ recently said the products, which comes in Cola, Orange and Lemon, are made using state-ofthe arts production lines, that ensure quality hygienic and standards. According to him, the soft drinks will be sold in 650ml PET bottles and other pack sizes.

“This is truly remarkable as no other player in Nigeria has given consumers value for money drink as Big Cola. The brand will have a recommended retail price of N90.00 per 650ml bottle,” he said. Williams added that a communication campaign targeted pan-Nigeria has been developed to support the launch of the drinks, stating that this include radio commercials, outdoor billboards, in-store promotions and major events, to mention a few. He said, the company will embark on “an aggressive ‘Think BIG’ sampling promotional campaign to avail consumers a firsthand experience of the unique taste of the product flavours. He said the ‘Think BIG’ promotional campaign will be at all retail point.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Brands & Marketing

Thursday, October 22, 2015

IAB rolls out new digital ad standards DAVID AUDU

he Interactive Advertising Bureau’s Tech Lab has issued a new set of technical standards for digital ads. According to senior Vice President of technology and ad operations at the IAB and general manager of the IAB Tech Lab, Scott Cunningham, the new LEAN, an acronym for Light, Encrypted, Ad choice supported, Non-invasive ads, standards have become necessary because online consumers have grown tired of digital standards that are intrusive and sap the speed of Web browsers on desktop and mobile, “The rise of ad blocking poses a threat to the internet and could po-

tentially drive users to an enclosed platform world dominated by a few companies,” Cunningham wrote in a column announcing the LEAN standards. “We have let the fine equilibrium of content; commerce and technology get out of balance in the open web.” The LEAN standards are the beginning of the next chapter for online digital advertising, according to Cunningham, and the IAB Tech Lab will be seeking constructive input from all sides as the specifics are hammered out moving forward. “LEAN Ads do not replace the current advertising standards many consumers still enjoy and engage with while consuming con-

tent on our sites across all IP enabled devices,” Cunningham wrote. “Rather, these principles will guide an alternative set of standards that provide choice for marketers, content providers and consumers.” For now, the LEAN standards will focus on frequency capping on retargeting in ad tech, in effort to make sure that users are targeted appropriately before, but not after, they make a purchase. “If we are so good at reach and scale, we can be just as good, if not better, at moderation,” according to Cunningham. “Additionally, we must address volume of ads per page as well as continue on the path to view ability. The dependencies here are critical to an optimized user experience.”

L-R: State Coordinator, NYSC Secretariat Lagos, Cyrille Akhanemhe, Director, Community Development Service, NDHQ, Abuja, Victoria Okhakhu, DG, NYSC, Brig. Gen. Johnson Olawunmi, Sustainable Development Manager, Guinness Nigeria, Osita Abana and Representative of the Deputy Governor of Lagos state, Micheal Dawodu at the presentation of drugs by Guinness Nigeria to the NYSC Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers which was flagged off in Olorunda LCDA, Badagry, Lagos State recently.

Intel sponsors “APP-circus” winner to mobile world congress DAVID AUDU

ntel has announced that its desire to sponsore the winner of the Lagos App Circus competition to Barcelona for the Mobile World Congress billed to take place next year.. Software and Services Lead, East Africa, Intel Corporation, Agatha Gikunda, disclosed during the App Circus competition finale, where team Verge POS, defeated seven other teams to emerge winner of the competition. Gikunda said Intel remains committed to providing opportunities to developers all over the world and promoting their innovations. According to her, there is only one App Circus competition for Africa each year, and Intel is happy to bring the once a year opportunity to Nigeria. “When App Circus was done in South Africa, a local developer went on to win the global competition so we are excited at the prospects for Nigerian team, Verge POS, who we will be sponsoring with a 3 day pass to the Mobile World Congress in February” she said On behalf of the judges, Vice President, Institute of Software Developers of Nigeria, Yele Okeremi, in his keynote address commended the developers on their efforts and groundbreaking ideas, stating that they are on the right track. According to him “Your contribution to society will be mea-

sured by the impact you make, and not how much money you make” On his part, spokesperson of the winning team Ogochukwu Francis Osifo expressed the team’s pleasure at winning the competition stating that it was a tall dream come true. In his words “We are glad to be part of this exciting experience especially since we just launched our app recently. We are extremely grateful to Intel for this opportunity and we are also looking forward to the International exposure, and prospect of future work with Intel as a brand behind us.” The winning app, Verge POS, is an Android POS solution for small scale retailers, which is free to download, allows offline work, and is backed up on the cloud was found by the judges to be the most promising software after satisfying the criteria of Originality and Global appeal, Creativity and innovation. App Circus is a global showcase of creative and innovative apps, and the Lagos competition saw 8 software developer teams pitch their App ideas to a panel of judges in order to get feedback and advice on their ideas. Other teams that participated in the finale include Ask the Expert who came second; Swap Naija, Route Buzz, Brain Friend, Campus Pal, Kunku, Scantranx POS and Koko for Messenger.

Brand X-Ray

Undergraduate wins car in GUC

fter two unsuccessful, yet near-win attempts at winning a brand new Hyundai Elantra car in Gulder’s ongoing National Consumer Promotion, 21-year old Charles Ozoalor eventually won the grand prize at the Ibadan leg, held recently. The brand new car eluded Ozoalor, a final year undergraduate twice - when he participated in the Enugu and Port Harcourt editions. The Gulder Ultimate Chase is part of the 2015 Gulder National Consumer Promotion which gives consumers the opportunity of winning a brand new Hyundai Elantra car if they are able to locate a chest which has the car keys. Discovering the chest is no mean feat as they have to overcome physical and mental tasking challenges which include

running and making sense of the coordinates on a map. Speaking on his previous Gulder Ultimate Chase experiences, the University of Nigeria law undergraduate said: “We ran from the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium to Okpara Square. I was so close to the car and I was the second person that the Gatekeeper handed over the map to. I was able to trace the location of three boxes. I opened the first two boxes and they were empty; but the guy behind me opened the third box which had the key. That was my experience in Enugu. The very fact that I came close to winning the grand prize made me not to lose hope. I felt that there was something in me that could still lead me to the ultimate prize.” Charles Ozoalor also stated that he was unlucky in Port Har-

court on October 3. Despite being among the first five contestants to arrive at the Polo Club after the sprint from the Liberation Stadium, he unfortunately read the map upside down which led him to a direction far from the location of the chest which had the keys to the brand new car. Charles however stated that he did not allow this losing streak to deter him. Instead, it spurred him to attend the Ibadan leg where he eventually emerged the grand prize winner. However, this victory was almost short-lived as he was almost disqualified. Charles Ozoalor stated that he would have gone to other venues where the Ultimate Chase was holding had he not won the brand new car in Ibadan. He however had words for other contestants who were not suc-

cessful. He said: “Don’t give up. Life is about 99 per cent perspiration and one per cent inspiration. I had to train harder in order to win this competition. Always work hard.” Stating that the car had changed his life, he said: “Mobility has always been an important thing in a man’s life. A lawyer needs a car. We all know what the transportation system in Nigeria is like. I will drive the car to school, I will use it to court, I will drive it to the chambers where I will do my attachment; in fact my movement is made easier with this car.” It was however different strokes for different folks. Ndubuisi Christian Uchendu, the 300 level student of Electronics and Computer Engineering department of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka has been thrice unsuccessful. He had been to the Enugu, Port Harcourt and Ibadan

legs of the Ultimate Chase, but has been unsuccessful. Speaking on what drives him to keep on contesting; he stated that it had been a learning curve for him. He said: “The Gulder Ultimate Chase is a learning process for me. I keep learning from my mistakes and I keep improving.” He however vowed not to stop competing in the Ultimate Chase until he wins the brand new car grand prize. To participate in the Gulder Ultimate Chase, consumers have to report at specific venues with six crown corks marked ‘Ultimate Chase’ and compete with other contestants. While the lucky winner will drive home a brand new car, other winners will go home with 200 mouth-watering prizes. Consumers can also win brand new cars via the electronic raffle draws. To win, they have to send the alphanumeric codes under the crown corks to 20388.

Insight Insight

Thursday, October 22, 2015 Thursday, August Thursday, July 2, 201520,

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luxuryluxury Judgment debts: Judgment debts: WhyWhy luxurious A

ttachment” is the legal process of seizing property to ensure satisfaction of a judgment while the document by which a court orders such a seizure may be called a writ of attachment or an order of attachment. Originally, the main purpose of attachment was to coerce a defendant into appearing in court and answering the plaintiff ’s claim. The court’s order will possibly make the Sheriff to take the defendant’s property into custody, depriving the individual of the right to use or sell it. If the defendant obstinately refuses to appear, the property could be sold by the court to pay off any monetary judgment entered against him or her. Today, the process of attachment has two functions, as a jurisdictional predicate and as a provisional remedy. Attachment of property within reach of the court’s jurisdiction gives the court authority over the defendant to the extent of that property’s value even if the court cannot reach the defendant personally. For example, a court must have some connection with the defendant in order to require that person to appear and defend himself or herself in an action before that court. Different facts are sufficient to give the court jurisdiction over the defendant’s person; for example, the defendant’s residence within the state, the defendant’s commission of a wrongful act within the state, or the defendant’s doing business within the state. If none of these kinds of facts exist to give the court jurisdiction over the defendant’s person, the court may nevertheless assert its authority over property that the defendant owns within the state. In such a case, the plaintiff cannot recover a monetary judgment for an amount larger than the value of the property nor can the individual reach the defendant’s property outside the state, but this sort of jurisdiction, called jurisdiction in rem or quasi in rem, may be the best the plaintiff can get. Before the court can exercise jurisdiction over the property, the plaintiff must obtain a writ of attachment to bring it into custody of the court. Attachment may also be a provisional remedy, that is, relief that temporarily offers the plaintiff some security while pursuing a final judgment in the lawsuit. For example, a plaintiff who has good reason to believe that the person he or she is suing is about to pack up and leave the state will want the court to prevent this until the plaintiff has a chance to win the action and collect on the judgment. The plaintiff can apply for an order of attachment that brings the property into the custody of the court and takes away the defendant’s right to remove it or dispose of it. However, National Mirror investigations in some courts in the country have shown that many judicial divisions in various parts of Nigeria are fast becoming dumping ground of vehicles, which were either recovered from judgement debtors or impounded in the course of court proceedings. In the process, the confiscated vehi-

Attached vehicles worth millions of naira are rotting away in various Federal and State High Court premises, even as pending cases on these moveable assets are yet to be disposed of several months and perhaps, years after they were instituted. WALE IGBINTADE and MATTHEW IRINOYE report that these cars seized for judgment enforcement purposes, apart from becoming eyesore, are preventing lawyers and litigants from operating freely in the courts.

Some of the seized expensive cars parked in the court premises

IN NIGERIA, THE POWER OF A COURT TO ENFORCE AND ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH ITS

SECTION 6(6)(A) OF THE 1999 CONSTITUTION (AS AMENDED)

JUDGMENT OR ORDER IS DERIVED FROM

cles are exposed to the vagaries of weather in the judicial divisions where they are parked. Most litigants and lawyers are miffed at the sight of the number of exotic vehicles that litter court premises in the country. At the Lagos Judicial Division of the State High Court, several vehicles worth millions of naira have taken over car parks thereby reducing the quantum of parking space reserved for lawyers and litigants. Recently, a Lagos High Court had ordered an interim forfeiture of three vehicles allegedly seized from one Lawrence Orimogunje, a 28-year-old undergraduate of Lead City University, Oyo State. He was said to have acquired them through fraudulent activities. The vehicles, according to investigation are, a Nissan Infinity G35 with registration number EP150 ABJ, a Chrysler 300 with registration number OLD-01,

and a Range Rover Sport with registration number OLD-03. A visit by our correspondent to Ikeja Judicial Division of the state judiciary equally revealed that no fewer than 37 vehicles attached on the order of the court littered the nook and cranny of the premises. The vehicles with deflated tyres were parked in every available space within the court premises. Among the vehicles are; seven space buses, six jeeps, and several exotic cars. Enquiries from an auto dealer showed that a space bus is sold for between N1.5million to N1.9m per one depending on the brand and the year of manufacture. Each of the Extera Jeeps sells for about N1.3m; a Benz Jeep is sold for about N2.2m while each of the Toyota Land Cruisers sells for about N2.2m. National Mirror gathered that some of the vehicles have been seized and brought to the court premises for past

three months. Efforts made by our correspondent to speak with the Chief Registrar (CR), state high court and the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the court proved abortive. But speaking on the issue, a Lagos lawyer, Mr. Napoleon Nwachukwu, said, ‘’Properties that have been impounded by the order of court are something that many of us are still worried about. This is because when you come to court you see spaces that ought to be used for more meaningful things are occupied by confiscated or impounded vehicles belonging to judgment debtors. It tells a lot about a people, in saner environment once judgement is given against you make the effort to comply with the judgement of the court, you pay. Nwachukwu continued, “It shows you believe in the system that found you guilty and that you are honest. But in Nigeria, a judgement creditor will have to pursue a debtor by another round of litigation. You spend more money and time to reap the fruit of your judgement. If people obey the judgement of court there would be no need for writ of fifa to seize your properties and thereby littering the court premises. We need to imbibe the culture of obeying court orders.” In his view, another lawyer, Mr. Akinwumi Akinfule, said, ‘’It is an unfortunate development to have so many abandoned vehicles within court premises.’’ Akinfule said though the vehicles

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Insight Insight

Thursday , October 22, 2015 Thursday , August 20, 2015 July 2, 2015

cars rot premises cars rotinincourt court premises

Another set of attached cars

CJN, Justice Mohammed

might be seized in one way or the other yet, where their owners have refused to show up to do what is required of them in accordance with the law, the authorities concerned should auction the vehicles after proper notice had been given to the owners to avoid another round of litigation. “For instance, I could not see space to park my car within the court premises so, I had to park outside where I do not even know whether my car is safe or not. “I just have to park and come to court to do what I wanted to do, I think in one breath keeping abandoned vehicles within the court premises is an aberration and it is highly condemnable.” Lagos lawyer, Abdulbarka Samsudeen, described the problem as an administrative issue which needed urgent attention by the State Chief Justice, Olufunmilayo Atilade, to quickly intervene. He said, “I want to urge the CJ and other stakeholders to do something about the issue because it is really affecting lawyers and the litigants.” Samsudeen revealed, “A friend of mine once told me that he had a matter and he could not see where to park within the court premises, he had to move elsewhere and before he could park and appear before the court, the matter had already been called and a new adjourned date was fixed because he could not get

Barr. Napoleon Nwachukwu not happy over the development

MANY JUDICIAL DIVISIONS IN VARIOUS PARTS OF

NIGERIA

ARE FAST BECOMING DUMPING GROUND OF VEHICLES,

WHICH WERE EITHER RECOVERED FROM JUDGEMENT DEBTORS OR IMPOUNDED IN THE COURSE OF COURT PROCEEDINGS

where to park conveniently and attend to his case in court. “We are aware that those vehicles are there for one reason or the other but it should not occupy space that lawyers and litigants usually use when they come to court. It is a serious matter that really

Lagos Chief Judge, Justice Atilade

needs an urgent attention.” The Assistant Secretary, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Branch, Mr. Adeyemi Abijo, said the abandoned vehicles within the court premises usually deprive the lawyers and litigants the opportunity of making use of parking spaces within the court premises. Admitting though that the vehicles were confiscated by the courts through process of execution of court’s judgment, Abijo supported his colleagues’ call that the state judiciary should look into the issue so that lawyers and litigants who come to court with their vehicles could have enough parking spaces. He said, “Of recently, lawyers and the litigants find it difficult to secure space to park cars within the court premises to the extent that the Divisional Police Officer of (Area F) Command visited the bar centre to complain on the habitual indiscriminate roadside parking of vehicles by lawyers and litigants within the precinct of Area F Command, Ikeja. From Oyo State Judiciary, our correspondent reported that only about seven impounded vehicles were parked in both Oyo State High Court premises in Iyaganku and Ring Road, Ibadan respectively. With this development, it would not be out of place to say that the state has one of the least attached goods in its court premises.

39 39

But speaking on this development, the state Chief Registrar, Mrs. A. A. OlatunjiDaniel, said it was not long that the abandoned vehicles in court premises across the state were disposed off. According to her, the vehicles presently in court premises in the state are there because there are court cases surrounding them. Olatunji-Daniel said, “We do not have abandoned vehicles in our court premises right now. This is because it was just last year that we disposed off those who littered the courts. The few that we have now are there because cases are going on concerning them.” Indeed, it is trite that every successful litigant is entitled to the fruit of his judgment. It is also a truism that the overriding function of the judicial process of enforcement is to enable the judgment creditor reap the fruits of his judgment with a view to obtaining for him due satisfaction, compensation, restitution, performance or compliance with what the court has granted by way of remedy or relief. The process of enforcement is broadly referred to as execution. Lord Denning aptly summarised the process thus: ‘’Execution means quite simply the process for enforcing or giving effect to the judgment of the court… In case when execution was had by means of a Common Law writ, such as fieri facias; it was legal execution; when it was had by means of an equitable remedy, such as the appointment of a Receiver then it was equitable execution because it was the process for enforcing or giving effect to the judgment of the court.’’ At all times however, the process of enforcement is at the initiative of the successful party. In Nigeria, the power of a court to enforce and ensure compliance with its judgment or order is derived from Section 6(6)(a) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). This portion of the country’s organic law directs that the judicial powers of the court “shall extend notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this constitution to all inherent powers and sanctions of a court of law.” Outside of the constitution, other laws that regulate enforcements of judgments in Nigeria are the Sheriffs and Civil Process Act, the Sheriffs and Civil Process Laws of the States and the Judgments (Enforcement) Rules made there under. It must be emphasised that the Judgments (Enforcement) Rules do not apply to proceedings in customary courts because the Sheriffs and Civil Process Act under which the Rules were made defines “court” as including only the High Court and Magistrates’ Court. The said Act also defines a judgment as including an order and as a consequence, references to judgments in this piece include the orders of courts. It should be observed that these laws name the Sheriff, the Deputy Sheriffs and the Bailiffs as the officers critical to the entire process of execution of the judgments of courts. •Additional report from Kemi Olaitan, Ibadan

Cocktail

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Oddities

‘Why man stole taxi’

man accused of stealing a taxi after he was discharged from a Des Moines hospital said he committed the offence because he did not want to walk home. Des Moines police said yesterday that 26-yearold Luis Orellana-Rivera drove off with the vehicle shortly after he was released from Mercy Medical Center and the unoccupied taxi had the key in the ignition at the time. Orellana-Rivera was

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

spotted about a half hour late and police say he had the key to the taxi in his pocket at the time of his arrest. Des Moines television station said the offender had told police he stole the vehicle because he “didn’t want to walk six blocks home”. Orellana-Rivera, who faces a second-degree theft charge, has been kept in county jail as the court records do not list an attorney.

Loose snake causes Philadelphia evacuation O

fficials said yesterday that an escaped four-foot snake on a bus prompted an emergency evacuation in Philadelphia. Transit authority officials said a person carrying a boa constrictor got on board the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority

bus just before 3 p.m. The snake’s owner, 26-yearold Koron Riley, told journalists that he had the snake draped around his neck and hidden under his jacket. The bus had to be evacu-

ated after the snake somehow got loose and coiled itself under a seat. A SEPTA mechanic was able to dismantle the seat, allowing a transit police officer to retrieve the snake and return it to Riley.

SEPTA policy allows riders to bring service animals or small, contained pets onto trains or buses. Police however said they were yet to decide if charges would be filed.

Zambia seeks “divine solution” to economic woes

ambians have taken part in a national day of prayer seeking divine help for the country’s economic woes following a collapse in global copper prices. Zambia, Africa’s second biggest copper producer, has seen its kwacha currency tumble nearly 50 per cent against the dollar this year, driving up food prices. Churches across the southern African nation conducted prayer service as they responded to call from

President Edgar Lungu. Football matches scheduled for the day were postponed and bars and restaurants were encouraged to close in a bid to encourage more Zambians to join the prayer gatherings. “I personally believe that since we humbled ourselves and cried out to God, the Lord has heard our cry,” Lungu, adding, “I appeal to all of you to do your best and leave the rest to God.” Zambia’s 1996 constitution designates the southern

African country officially as a Christian nation. “The shortage of electricity has affected all of us. Companies are scaling down production and laying off workers,” Catholic priest, Michael Mawelera, said during the mass at Good Shepherd Kabwata parish in the capital Lusaka. “Prices of essential commodities have risen because of the depreciation of the kwacha. We need to seek God’s hand,” Mawelera said.

Snake owner and his snake after being thrown off the bus in downtown Philadelphia

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Access Bank earnings hits N258bn in nine months Johnson Okanlawon

ccess Bank has sustained performance in its unaudited results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2015, showing positive growth in financial indices. The unaudited financial results released to the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday showed that the bank recorded a gross earnings of N258billion, representing an increase of 42 per cent over the N182billion recorded in the same period in 2014. Its interest income rose 17.9 per cent to N155,4 billion, from N131.7 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2014 while operating income in-

creased to N178 billion, from 125 billion. The group posted a profit before tax of N60billion, which showed an increase of 43 per cent when compared to the third quarter of 2014 at N42billion. Profit after tax was up 34 per cent in 2015 to N48billion compared to N35billion in nine months of 2014. The bank’s return on average equity stood at 2.15 per cent, from 1.85 per cent recorded in the same period of 2014, while profit after tax margin stood at 18.7 per cent from 19.3 per cent in 2014. Analysis of the bank’s balance sheet showed that its total assets rose to N2.40 trillion in the

review period, from N2.07 trillion recorded in the corresponding period of 2014. The total liabilities increased to N2.05 trillion in the three months from N1.81 trillion recorded in the same period of 2014, while net assets stood at N351,9 billion, an increase of 32 per cent when compared to N265 billion recorded in 2014. Speaking on the results, the Group Managing Director, Mr. Herbert Wigwe noted that the bank continues to maintain strong growth in earnings reflecting our commitment to deliver on our objectives for 2015. According to him, the group posted a profit be-

fore tax of N60 billion in the three months, compared to N42 billion recorded in the same period of 2014 in spite of the significant policy headwinds in the first nine months of the year. “We continue to invest in technology, enhance our processes and improve service delivery whilst reducing cost as we deploy simple and efficient digital solutions to meet the needs of our customers. “The recent upgrade of our core banking applications will act as catalyst for the sustainable growth of our retail base and deepen our share in key focus market segments,” he stated.

Equities erase gain, shed 0.42% Johnson Okanlawon

rading in equities closed on a negative note on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, as some investors took profit from the previous gains. Specifically, the All Share Index dropped 0.42 per cent to close at 30,199.15 points, compared to the appreciation of 0.35 per cent recorded the preceding day to

close.Market capitalisation lost N24 billion to close at N10.38 trillion, in contrast to the increase of N37 billion recorded the preceding day to close at N10.42 trillion. Oando Plc led the gainers’ table with 76 kobo or 8.34 per cent to close at N9,87 per share, followed by Transnational Express Plc with seven kobo or 6.09 per cent to close at N1.22 per share. Air Service Plc

gained seven kobo or 6.09 per cent to close at N1.94 per share, while Guinness Nigeria Plc added N6.80 or 4.72 per cent to close at N150.80 per share. Evans Medicals Plc appreciated two kobo or 3.39 per cent to close at 61 kobo per share. Conversely, Arbico Plc shed 26 kobo or 4.91 per cent to close at N5.04 per share, while Academy Press Plc fell three kobo or 4.84 per cent to close at 59 per share.

DN Meyer Plc depreciated three kobo or 4.11 per cent to close at N70 kobo per share, while Costain Plc declined two kobo or 3.64 per cent to close at 53 kobo per share. Dangote Flour Mills Plc depreciated 22 kobo or 3.35 per cent to close at N6.35 per share. A total of 207.5 million shares valued at N3.44 billion were traded in 2,767 deals.

Overnight rate, bond yields rise as liquidity thins

vernight lending rates and yields on long term bonds rose yesterday after commercial lenders pre-funded their accounts with the central bank for currency purchases, soaking up system liquidity, traders said. The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has been trying to stimulate lending and stave off a recession in the country after second quarter growth slowed owing to a persistent drop in oil prices and currency controls. But liquidity started to shrink after the regulator debited lenders for currency purchases on behalf of customers

and also withdrew government funds from the banking system to soak up liquidity, impacting the bond market. “Liquidity is slowing down the buying spree,” one trader said, adding that funds were also booking month-end profits. Yield on the 20-year bond rose to 13.8 per cent, up 29 basis points from its previous close, while the benchmark 10-year paper edged up 23 basis point to 13.35 per cent as liquidity thinned out. “We had a pension fund on the 20-year that stopped buying. When they stayed out of the market, yields went back up,” another trader said.

Banking system liquidity opened lower at N385 billion ($1.93 billion), lifting up overnight lending rates to 5.5 per cent from one per cent the previous day, traders said. Overnight rates have stayed as low as 0.5 per cent in the past week. Liquidity topped N1 trillion last week as the bank injected cash through repayment for matured Open Market Operation, OMO, bills and refunds due to lenders after it reduced cash reserves requirements. Traders expect additional OMO maturities of around N200 billion to hit the system in two

Source: NSE

Inter-Bank Rate Naira

Rate (%) Inflation

8.2

MPR

Crude oil price

$58.96

US Dollar

N197 Market indicators All-Share Index 30,199.15 points Market capitalisation 10.41trn

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

OANDO

9.11

9.87

0.76

8.34

TRANSEXPR

1.15

1.22

0.07

6.09

AIRSERVICE

1.85

1.94

0.09

4.86

GUINNESS

144.00

150.80

6.80

4.72

EVANSMED

0.59

0.61

0.02

3.39

VITAFOAM

5.12

5.29

0.17

3.32

NPFMCRFBK

1.02

1.05

0.03

2.94

135.25

138.02

2.77

2.05

CUTIX

1.58

1.60

0.02

1.27

ACCESS

4.95

4.99

0.04

0.81

CHANGE

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

ARBICO

5.30

5.04

-0.26

-4.91

ACADEMY

0.62

0.59

-0.03

-4.84

DNMEYER

0.73

0.70

-0.03

-4.11

COSTAIN

0.55

0.53

-0.02

-3.64

DANGSUGAR

6.57

6.35

-0.22

-3.35

FIDSON

3.10

3.00

-0.10

-3.23

UBCAP

1.40

1.36

-0.04

-2.86

DANGCEM

168.95

164.55

-4.40

-2.60

FLOURMILL

21.41

21.00

-0.41

-1.91

TRANSCORP

2.12

2.08

-0.04

-1.89

FGN Bonds

Offer

Bid

Description

weeks, coupled with government revenue disbursals of another N200 billion due month-end.

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.55

101.99

13.62

102.14

13.51

16.00 29-JUN-2019

3.73

106.01

13.86

106.31

13.76

15.54 13-FEB-2020

4.35

105.41

13.83

105.71

13.74

16.39 27-JAN-2022

6.31

109.40

14.08

109.70

14.01

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.43

99.49

14.30

99.79

14.24

10.00 23-JUL-2030

14.79 68.00

15.59

68.30

15.52

Closing Market Prices of October 7, 2015

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

Exchange

Rates (N)

07-Jan-16

8.93

9.13

WAUA

270

USD

197

07-Apr-16

11.05

11.69

EURO

214

01-Sep-16

11.63

13.00

CFA

0.32

YEN

1.64

Tenor

Rate (%)

SWISS FRANC

202

O/N

2.0833

POUNDS STERLING

293

14.0654

15.3013

SDR

273

16.7049

NIBOR

The Fixings of October 7, 2015

Capital Market

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Stock exchange daily equities summary Daily Summary as of 21/10/2015

Equities as at October 21, 2015

Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039

Daily Summary as of 21/10/2015 Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039

Daily Summary (Bonds) No Debt Trading Activity

1st Tier Securities Sector

Company name

1st Tier Securities

Daily Summary (Equities)

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY AGRICULTURE Crop Production OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC. Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals

Symbol OKOMUOIL PRESCO

No. of Deals 4 7 11

Current Price 35.63 30.50

Quantity Traded 7,869 10,335 18,204

Value Traded 266,365.65 331,476.45 597,842.10

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 9 9

Current Price 1.73

Quantity Traded 100,750 100,750

Value Traded 169,245.50 169,245.50

118,954

767,087.60

Daily Summary as of 21/10/2015 Printed AGRICULTURE 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039 Totals

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

Symbol

No. of Deals 1 92 57 150

Current Price 1.03 2.08 29.00

Quantity Traded 1,000 6,838,300 545,934 7,385,234

Value Traded 1,020.00 14,322,865.49 15,850,335.00 30,174,220.49

150 No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 5.04

7,385,234 Quantity Traded 5,411,025 5,411,025

30,174,220.49 Value Traded 27,271,566.00 27,271,566.00

Daily Summary (Equities) AGLEVENT TRANSCORP UACN

Symbol ARBICO

ICT Processing Systems E-TRANZACT INTERNATIONAL PLC Processing Systems Totals Telecommunications Services MASS TELECOMMUNICATION INNOVATIONS NIGERIA PLC Telecommunications Services Totals

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC Daily Summary as of 21/10/2015 CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039 DN MEYER PLC. FIRST ALUMINIUM NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals Electronic and Electrical Products

No. of Deals 10 10

Current Price 0.53

Quantity Traded Page 475,200 475,200

Value Traded 1 of 12 251,856.00 251,856.00

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

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 39.99

Quantity Traded 1,657 1,657

Value Traded 67,268.60 67,268.60

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

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 8.17

Quantity Traded 6,212 6,212

Value Traded 49,051.40 49,051.40

5,894,094

27,639,742.00

Value Traded 27,400.00 27,400.00

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039 CONSUMER GOODS Automobiles/Auto Parts DN TYRE & RUBBER PLC Automobiles/Auto Parts Totals Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Activity Summary on Board EQTY

CHAMPION BREW. PLC. CONSUMER GOODS GUINNESS NIG PLC Beverages--Brewers/Distillers INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange Totals © Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals Food Products DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NASCON ALLIED INDUSTRIES PLC Daily Summary as of 21/10/2015 Food Products Totals Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039 Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. VONO PRODUCTS PLC. CONSUMER GOODS Household Durables Totals Personal/Household Products

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products © Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AIICOSERVICES INSURANCE PLC. FINANCIAL CONTINENTAL PLC Insurance Carriers,REINSURANCE Brokers and Services

CORNERSTONE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC. INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC Published byAXAMANSARD The Nigerian Stock ExchangePLC © INSURANCE MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. STANDARD ALLIANCE INSURANCE PLC. UNIC INSURANCE PLC. WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals Daily Summary as of Carriers, 21/10/2015 Mortgage Brokers and Services Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039 ASO SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC RESORT SAVINGS & LOANS PLC UNION HOMES SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC. Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FINANCIAL FCMB SERVICES GROUP PLC. Other Financial STANBIC IBTCInstitutions HOLDINGS PLC UBA CAPITAL PLC Published by The Financial Nigerian Stock Exchange © Other Institutions Totals

No. of Deals 2 (Equities) 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 54,800 54,800

Symbol CHAMPION GUINNESS Symbol INTBREW NB

No. of Deals 9 49 No. of Deals 6 104 168

Current Price 4.60 150.80 Current 17.00 Price 138.02

Quantity Traded 109,900 146,862 Quantity Traded 37,576 1,897,725 Page 2,192,063

Symbol 7UP

No. of Deals 16 16

Current Price 197.00

Quantity Traded 34,506 34,506

Value Traded 6,797,177.00 6,797,177.00

Symbol DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON

No. of Deals 21 27 85 10 12 155

Current Price 2.60 6.35 21.00 2.67 7.41

Quantity Traded 50,186 1,253,213 677,572 126,738 36,740 2,144,449

Value Traded 130,468.81 7,977,320.27 14,298,848.16 340,439.50 273,666.68 23,020,743.42

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 37 34 (Equities) 71

Current Price 22.00 830.00

Quantity Traded 140,557 964,967 1,105,524

Value Traded 2,949,339.19 800,776,586.84 803,725,926.03

Symbol VITAFOAM VONO

No. of Deals 26 1 27 No. of Deals

Current Price 5.29 0.93

Quantity Traded 473,306 38,400 Quantity511,706 Traded

Value Traded 2,369,978.60 34,560.00 2,404,538.60 Value Traded

Daily Summary

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

26 28 54

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

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Activity Summary CUTIX PLC. on Board EQTY

Electronic and Electrical Products Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Packaging/Containers BETA GLASS CO PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange Packaging/Containers Totals ©

NATURAL RESOURCES Metals ALUMINIUM EXTRUSION IND. PLC. Metals Totals

97,110 88,357 Page 185,467

Value Traded 480,263.00 22,078,372.40 Value Traded 638,792.00 260,897,804.32 2 of 12 284,095,231.72

OIL AND GAS Totals Exploration and Production SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD SERVICES Exploration and Production Totals Automobile/Auto Part Retailers R T BRISCOE PLC. OIL AND GAS Totals Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals

2,453,497.80 3,778,316.79 12 3 6,231,814.59 of

Quantity Traded 6,425,416 7,124,249 190,876 1,152,838 16,501,546 231,399 535,141 6,979,055 381,336 213,025 1,743,156 41,478,037

Value Traded 32,464,453.96 20,662,333.53 3,472,947.69 1,720,476.64 397,245,796.02 500,823.21 1,147,249.87 29,508,348.80 2,067,492.20 324,498.00 1,661,998.20 490,776,418.12

No. of Deals Current Price 19 0.88 1.00 No. of Deals6 Current Price 3 0.50 1 0.50 5 2.55 1 0.50 9 0.70 2 0.50 1 0.50 6 0.50 53

Quantity Traded 404,410 Quantity 156,780 Traded

Value Traded 353,521.26 157,160.00 Value Traded

Symbol NPFMCRFBK

No. of Deals 11 11

Current Price 1.05

Quantity Traded 795,000 795,000

Value Traded 834,650.00 834,650.00

Symbol ASOSAVINGS RESORTSAL UNHOMES

No. of Deals 1 3 2 6

Current Price 0.50 0.50 5.23

Quantity Traded 188,000 420,000 1,281 609,281

Value Traded 94,000.00 210,000.00 6,366.57 310,366.57

No. of Deals 22 10 21 No. of Deals 27 71 151

Current Price 2.66 4.20 2.17 Current Price 23.10 1.36

Quantity Traded 452,929 461,101 257,350 Quantity 854,838 Traded 7,802,904 Page 9,829,122

Value Traded 1,200,563.23 1,936,624.20 557,769.36 Value Traded 19,750,826.82 10,711,283.23 12 5 of 34,157,066.84

CORNERST INTENEGINS MANSARD MBENEFIT NEM STDINSURE UNIC WAPIC

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FCMB Symbol STANBIC UBCAP

979

11,000 9,333 Page 13,800

25,000 487,770 73,287 20,000 3,245 1,204,625

527,034,080.89

Symbol UNIONDAC

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 20,000 20,000

Value Traded 10,000.00 10,000.00

Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER NEIMETH

No. of Deals 12 5 6 4 8 35

Current Price 0.61 3.00 39.00 1.17 1.03

Quantity Traded 479,373 62,000 23,482 21,000 61,600 647,455

Value Traded 292,372.73 186,030.00 933,034.50 25,620.00 61,200.00 1,498,257.23

667,455

1,508,257.23

Quantity Traded 20 5,400 5,420

Value Traded 209.40 8,694.00 8,903.40

Symbol NCR TRIPPLEG

No. of Deals 1 1 2

Current Price 11.02 1.69

Page

SERVICES Courier/Freight/Delivery Daily Summary as of 21/10/2015 Automobile/Auto Part Retailers RED STAR EXPRESS PLC Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039 R T BRISCOE PLC. TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals Courier/Freight/Delivery Employment Solutions RED STAR EXPRESS PLC C & I LEASING PLC. TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals Activity Summary on Board EQTY Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Employment Solutions SERVICES C & I LEASING PLC. Employment Solutions Employment Solutions Totals

Value of Shares(N)

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 2.85

Quantity Traded 2,000 2,000

Value Traded 5,960.00 5,960.00

Symbol MTI

No. of Deals 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 1,000

Value Traded 500.00

Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER CAP CCNN DNMEYER FIRSTALUM WAPCO

1,000

500.00

8,420

15,363.40

No. of Deals 9 6 3 8 1 1 25 53 (Equities)

Current Price 23.00 10.87 38.00 7.38 0.70 0.50 98.99

Quantity Traded 18,599 12,127 2,200 72,261 12,157,547 5,850 173,502 12,442,086

Value Traded 418,494.00 125,271.91 85,015.00 553,488.45 8,510,282.90 2,925.00 17,111,348.64 26,806,825.90

Symbol CUTIX

No. of Deals 12 12

Current Price 1.60

Quantity Traded 4,600,799 4,600,799

Value Traded 7,353,577.63 7,353,577.63

Symbol BETAGLAS

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 43.00

Quantity Traded 10,000 Page 10,000

Value Traded 422,500.00 12 7 422,500.00 of

Daily Summary

Symbol ALEX

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 9.84

17,052,885

34,582,903.53

Quantity Traded 50 50

Value Traded 467.50 467.50

467.50

Symbol JAPAULOIL

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 48,000 48,000

Value Traded 24,000.00 24,000.00

Symbol

No. of Deals 178 178

Current Price 9.87

Quantity Traded 78,524,632 78,524,632

Value Traded 768,650,230.25 768,650,230.25

No. of Deals 4

Current Price 27.41

OANDO Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol CONOIL

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol ETERNA FO MOBIL MRS Symbol TOTAL ETERNA

Quantity Traded 2,290

Value Traded 59,631.60

No. of Deals Current Price 3 1.71 76 290.00 23 154.00 49.66 No. of Deals1 Current Price 12 150.01 3 1.71 119 76 290.00 23 154.00 No. of Deals Current Price 1 49.66 9 234.50 12 150.01 9 119

Quantity Traded 44,000 165,604 62,121 Page Quantity Traded2 27,815 44,000 301,832 165,604

Value Traded 73,300.00 47,151,385.24 12 89,118,203.70 of 94.36 Value Traded 4,204,041.17 73,300.00 60,606,656.07 47,151,385.24

62,121 Quantity Traded 2 2,503 27,815 2,503 301,832

9,118,203.70 Value Traded 94.36 584,544.50 4,204,041.17 584,544.50 60,606,656.07

307 No. of Deals Current Price 9 234.50 9 Current Price No. of Deals 2 0.57 307 2

78,876,967 Quantity Traded 2,503 2,503 Quantity Traded

829,865,430.82 Value Traded 584,544.50 584,544.50 Value Traded

23,504 78,876,967 23,504

12,927.20 829,865,430.82 12,927.20

Symbol Symbol REDSTAREX RTBRISCOE TRANSEXPR

No. of Deals Current Price No. of Deals Current Price 14 4.25 2 0.57 5 1.22 2 19

Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 671,760 23,504 57,000 23,504 728,760

Value Traded Value Traded 2,859,740.00 12,927.20 69,490.00 12,927.20 2,929,230.00

Symbol Symbol

No. of Deals Current Price No. of Deals Current Price 14 4.25 3 0.50 5 1.22 19

Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 671,760 15,354 57,000 728,760 Page Quantity Traded 15,354 Quantity Traded 15,354 Page Quantity Traded 20,210 20,210

Value Traded Value Traded 2,859,740.00 7,677.00 69,490.00 2,929,230.00 9 of 12 Value Traded 7,677.00 Value Traded 7,677.00 9 of 12 Value Traded 66,694.90 66,694.90

FO MOBIL Symbol MRS SEPLAT TOTAL

Symbol SEPLAT Symbol RTBRISCOE

REDSTAREX Daily Summary (Equities) CILEASING TRANSEXPR

Symbol CILEASING Symbol

No. of Deals 3 No. of Deals 3

Current Price 0.50 Current Price

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL

No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 3.44

Media/Entertainment DAAR COMMUNICATIONS PLC Media/Entertainment Totals

Symbol DAARCOMM

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 57,300 57,300

Value Traded 28,650.00 28,650.00

Printing/Publishing ACADEMY PRESS PLC. STUDIO PRESS (NIG) PLC. Printing/Publishing Totals

Symbol ACADEMY STUDPRESS

No. of Deals 2 2 4

Current Price 0.59 2.30

Quantity Traded 125,000 1,020 126,020

Value Traded 74,350.00 2,233.80 76,583.80

Symbol ABCTRANS

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.53

Quantity Traded 45,816 45,816

Value Traded 23,366.16 23,366.16

No. of Deals 2 8 (Equities) 10

Current Price 1.94 4.60

Quantity Traded 53,000 18,119 71,119

Value Traded 102,805.00 83,526.81 186,331.81

5,500.00 4,666.50 12 of 35,622.00 12,500.00 338,343.60 36,643.50 10,000.00 1,622.50 955,579.36

53,916,065

Activity Summary Board EQTY Petroleum and on Petroleum Products Distributors

MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. Exploration and Production MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Exploration and Production Totals Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals

Current Price 4.99 2.85 18.75 1.50 24.05 2.15 2.19 4.23 5.55 1.53 0.99

Symbol AIICO CONTINSURE Symbol

Integrated Oil and Gas Services Daily Summary as of 21/10/2015 OANDO PLC Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039 Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals

CONOIL PLC OIL AND GAS Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors ETERNA PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. Published TheGAS Nigerian Stock Exchange © OILby AND MRS OILand NIGERIA PLC. Products Distributors Petroleum Petroleum TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. ETERNA PLC. Petroleum andPLC. Petroleum Products Distributors Totals FORTE OIL

1,126,302,831.36

Symbol No. of Deals ACCESS 166 DIAMONDBNK 63 ETI 29 FIDELITYBK 34 GUARANTY 234 SKYEBANK 21 STERLNBANK 19 UBA 101 UBN 43 UNITYBNK 10 Daily Summary (Equities) WEMABANK 38 758

OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment and Services Daily Summary as of 21/10/2015 JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039 Energy Equipment and Services Totals

Quantity Traded

Symbol ETRANZACT

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals

6,228,515

HEALTHCARE Totals ICT IT Services NCR (NIGERIA) PLC. TRIPPLE GEE AND COMPANY PLC. IT Services Totals

Current Price 25.18 44.83

493

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Healthcare Providers UNION DIAGNOSTIC & CLINICAL SERVICES PLC Healthcare Providers Totals

Quotation(N)

NATURAL RESOURCES Totals Symbol DUNLOP

CONSUMER GOODS Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. Daily Summary as ofBANK 21/10/2015 SKYE PLC Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039 STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. Banking Totals

No Of Deals

ICT Totals

Symbol COSTAIN

Daily Summary as of 21/10/2015

Sector Activity Company name Summary on Board EQTY

Daily Summary (Equities)

Road Transportation ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC Daily Summary as of 21/10/2015 Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039 Totals Road Transportation Transport-Related Services AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals

Symbol AIRSERVICE NAHCO Daily Summary

Activity Summary SERVICES Totals on Board EQTY EQTY Board Totals

1,088,083

3,331,460.87

2,122

171,236,722

2,581,221,845.69

Page

Daily Summary (Equities)

Activity Summary on Board PREMIUM FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals Other Financial Institutions FBN HOLDINGS PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals

Symbol ZENITHBANK

No. of Deals 224 224

Current Price 17.60

Quantity Traded 16,080,453 16,080,453

Value Traded 283,067,461.19 283,067,461.19

Symbol FBNH

No. of Deals 371 371

Current Price 5.84

Quantity Traded 17,300,463 17,300,463

Value Traded 101,368,660.31 101,368,660.31

33,380,916

384,436,121.50

Quantity Traded 2,862,882 2,862,882 207,480,520

474,191,200.22 3,439,849,167.41

2,862,882

474,191,200.22

36,243,798

858,627,321.72

Daily Summary as of 21/10/2015 FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals Printed 21/10/2015 14:32:39.039 INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials DANGOTE CEMENT PLC EquityBuilding ActivityMaterials Totals Totals

595

Symbol DANGCEM

No. of Deals 50 50 2,767

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals

Current Price 164.55

Value Traded 474,191,200.22

Daily Summary (ETP) PREMIUM Board Totals Exchange Traded Fund Name LOTUS HALAL EQUITY ETF NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © VETIVA BANKING ETF VETIVA CONSUMER GOODS ETF VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF VETIVA INDUSTRIAL ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals

645 Symbol LOTUSHAL15 NEWGOLD VETBANK VETGOODS VETGRIF30 VETINDETF

No. of Deals 1 1 2 20 1 26 51

Current Price 9.72 2,256.00 3.21 7.64 13.89 21.38

Quantity Traded 10 52 Page 5,005 172,667 10 94,568 272,312

Value Traded 97.20 12 11 117,312.00 of 16,066.00 1,219,041.22 138.90 2,036,048.04 3,388,703.36

ETF Board Totals

272,312

3,388,703.36

ETP Activity Totals

272,312

3,388,703.36

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Young & Next Generation

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Youths warned against illegal oil refining Stories by LEONARD OKACHIE

ouths have been advised to desist from illegal oil refining but should engage in more productive activities like planting seeds. Director General of National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agenc, NOSDRA, Mr. Peter Idabor, gave this advice at a South South stakeholders’ forum organised by Stakeholders Democracy Network (SDN), an NGO, in Abuja on Tuesday. Idabor said that illegal oil refining in the country complicates existing environmental damage from pipelines. ``Instead of engaging in such criminal activities, it is better for such youth to engage in planting of seeds that could promote our environment and increase our economy. ``Such activity will also create carbon seed. My agency is trying to link with the Mango Society of Nigeria (MSN) and encourage the society to create nurseries, which we can use to replace some of this plant. ``So that we can generally put them away from this act

Peace corps members that will increase carbon dioxide production in our eco-system,’’ he said. He said that the agency is

making every effort in ensuring that it creates awareness and educates the citizens on environmental issues. Idabor said that the awareness would enable Nigerians to know the negative effects on environmental damage and how it could be controlled. The director general said that the agency also have great green wall project, which it currently developed and covered about several states in the country.

He said that one of the issues militating against the development of forest belt was lack of transparency and accountability. According to him, if you are saying that you are creating new seasonings to planting new plant, you must also have an adequate number of boreholes to water such plant. He stressed the need to increase seed multiplication programmes, adding that it would increase seed multiplications

Group organises Masterclass for young entrepreneurs

Sola Obagbemi addressing the participants

number of young entrepreneurs as well as mass communication students from six universities across Nigeria were hosted recently at the SME 100 Masterclass and campus edition of The Red Summit. The Masterclass was the third event organized as part of Red Media Africa’s 10th anniversary. It provided an opportunity for young entrepreneurs to learn public relations strategies that won’t break the bank. These future leaders also had the space to dialogue with media professionals while receiving invaluable insight to shape their career path. Both events held simultaneously at Landmark Centre, Lekki, Lagos, and the Julius Berger Hall of the University of Lagos. The event at Landmark focused on young entrepreneurs

who were exposed to enlightening insights from successful media entrepreneurs. It featured entrepreneurs such as RED co-founders ChudeJideonwo and Adebola Williams; renowned broadcaster, Agatha Amata; CordeliaOkpei, and the Dean of the School of Media & Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Dr.Ikechukwu Obiaya as speakers. Present at the Unilag Masterclass were students from various Nigerian universities such as the University of Ibadan, Lagos State University (LASU) and the host university. It featured speakers such as the Director of Arts, British Council, OjomaOchai; popular blogger, TosinAjibade; Anita Erskine, Chris Ogunlowo, Isabella Akinsheye, and Oluwasola Obagbemi. This event is aimed at building future media professionals.

nurseries across the belt. He urged the Nigeria Institute of Forestry in Jos Plateau State, and other institutions responsible in carrying out seed multiplication programme to put more efforts in ensuring that such activities are effective. He said that seed multiplication programmes was vital ingredient in modern agriculture and as an essential element in the survival of agricultural system. Also speaking, Mr Imemo Samiama, Country Director of SDN said an urgent multi-stakeholder response is required from government, civil society, and oil majors to combine efforts to raise awareness of the health and environmental impacts of illegal oil refining. Samiama said that the NGO had partnered with local organisations and communities in the Niger Delta on the issues that affect them. ``Issues such as improving oil spill response and compensation, mediating inter-communal conflicts, addressing local energy needs, supporting the struggle against slum clearance. ``Monitoring elections, dealing with corruption and striving for environmental and social justice among others.’’ He said that when Civil Society Organisations, Government and other stakeholders come together, they could proffer sustainable solutions that could help build a lasting peace.

Young & Next Generation

Thursday, October 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Agency cautions parents against child right violation Leonard Okachie

orried by the increasing risks children are being exposed to, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and other related Offences (NAPTIP), has warned parents against engaging their children in various forms of domestic servitude. The agency’s spokesperson, Mr. Orakwe Arinze who gave this warning noted that such actions constitute violation of the fundamental rights of children. “It is the right of every child to be given quality education and good care,’’ he said, adding that if children must be given out, it should be to relatives who can give them parental care. He explained that using children as domestic servants was one of the antics used by human traffickers to lure their victims into human trafficking. Arinze urged parents to engage their children and wards in constructive activities that would improve their lot. He said that the desire to get rich quick was the reason why some Nige-

Children having fun at a park in Lagos.

rians easily fall prey to human traffickers. Arinze said: “Nigerians should be watchful about the antics of human

Diamond Lions Club conducts free eye screening on children Leonard Okachie

korodu Diamond Lions Club in conjunction with Ajayi Medical Hospital, has conducted a free eye screening, distribution of medications and recommendation of eyes to pupils and their teachers at Local Government Primary School, Ipakodo-Ikorodu, Lagos. The project which held recently on the occasion of 2015 World Sight Day, was in line with Lions Clubs International directives on a service activity tagged “Sharing the Vision”. The club, at the end screening that lasted over four hours, had a total of 105 beneficiaries that would be given free glasses on a later date. In his speech, the President of

Ikorodu Diamond Lions Club, Prince Adewale Michael said children are very important and as such they cannot afford to toil with their health, especially their sight since they are the future leaders. Similarly, the club’s Project Director, Lion Yinka Oyenuga stated that the success of yet another project by the club for 2015/2016 Lions service year brought joy to his heart knowing full well that the children were directly affected and some sights would be preserved, saved and properly restored through corrective measures after the project. Responding the school authorities commended the club for always carrying out humanitarian activities in the school.

Free eye screening at Local Government Primary School, Ipakodo,Ikorodu.

traffickers. Parents and guardians must ensure that their children and wards do not fall into the hands of traffickers by engaging them in constructive activities. “Parents should desist from giving out their children for various forms of domestic servitude. “A lot of traffickers approach parents with the assurance to assist them train their children or wards to the highest academic level. “In the long run they end up using the children to make money by using them as domestic servants, for prosti-

tution among others. “If these children must stay under the guidance of people who are not their parents due to economic hardship, it should be with relatives where they can get parental care.’’ Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery where people profit from the control and exploitation of others through commercial sex, child labour among others. Victims are frequently lured by false promises of a lucrative job, education, loving relationship among others.

Science for Kids

Is rainwater clean enough to drink?

t depends on where you are. Everyone assumes that clouds are sterile, but scientists have recently discovered that clouds contain a species of bacteria called Pseudomonas. These bacteria live in the air and seem to use clouds as a way of transporting themselves. It’s able to do this because it has a way of causing ice nucleation – It’s got certain chemicals on it’s surface that makes tiny ice crystals form, and this makes the cloud form ice crystals around the bacterium. This makes it heavier, and so it flutters down to earth – using the clouds and winds as a transport mechanism. These bacteria don’t seem to cause any harm to humans though. What can harm you are the other chemicals that are dissolved in the water as the rain falls down to earth. If you’re isolated from pollution sources, the rain is coning from a pristine ocean and will be pretty clean. Rain droplets

If you’re in a built up area, or downwind of heavy industry, power stations etc, these things can be pumping out all sorts of chemicals – particulates, carcinogens, dioxins and even heavy metals. These particles get into clouds and encourage the clouds to form water droplets, falling as rain. It’s also interesting to note that some of the dust that rain deposits on your car has come all the way from the Sahara desert. Dust from the Sahara gets blown high into the atmosphere and is distributed accross the globe. The naked scientists

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Media

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Jakande, Osoba, Momoh, 118 other media icons honoured at Red Summit Leonard Okachie

irst civilian Governor of Lagos State and first President of the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN), Alhaji LateefJakande; two-time governor of Ogun State and former Managing Director of Daily Times, Chief Segun Osoba; Chairman of Channels Television, John Momoh and former Minister of Information, Prince Tony Momoh were among the Nigerian media icons recognised for their outstanding contributions to the in media industry recently, at the maiden edition of The Red Media Summit. The Red Media Summit Gala Night which held at Harbour Point in Victoria Island, Lagos, was part of the two-day conference of the maiden edition of the summit organised by the The Red Media group, to celebrate the organisation’s 10th anniversary. Organised in partnership with Troyka Holdings and the School of Media and Communications, Pan-Atlantic University, and sponsored by FirstBank Nigeria, the summit was West Africa’s largest omni-media gathering which brought together stakeholders in various segments of the media across the African continent to explore new trends in a rapidly changing landscape. The evening which witnessed crème d’ la crème in the media industry had the fol-

L-R : Chief Segun Osoba, former Minister of Education, Mrs. Obiageli Ezekwesili; Founding Partner of Red Media, Mr. Adeola Williams and former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, during book presentation at the Red Summit in Lagos, recently.

lowing people recognised: Mo Abudu, Biodun Shobanjo, Nduka Obaigbena, Betty Irabor, Amin Mousalli, Bunm iOke, Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD), Akin Odunsi [Chief] (Rosabel); Mayor Akinpelu (Global Excellence Magazine); AfolabiAdesanya; Vincent Maduka ; TaiwoObe; OdiaOfeimun (Poet); Victoria Ezeokoli; Segun Odegbami; Grace Egbagbe (Former Executive Director, NTA); Bimbo Oloyede; Yakubu Mohammed; BayoOnanuga (PM News Newspaper); Lanre Idowu; Sam Nda-Isaiah; Kehinde Young-

Sokoto broadcast stations to be digitised soon –Shekara

okoto State Radio and Television stations will be digitised before the expiration of the December deadline set by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Alhaji Abu Shekara, Managing Director, Sokoto State Media Corporation, has said. Shekara, the newly appointed MD of the corporation, was a former Chairman of the State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). Speaking on Tuesday in Sokoto when he assumed duty, Shekara said the state government had taken all the necessary steps to meet the deadline. “This is because all broadcast media organisations that are not fully digitized when the deadline comes into effect must have to close shop. “Both the state government and the management will work tirelessly to meet the deadline by modernizing the stations,’’ he said, He urged media practitioners in the

state to prioritise objectivity and professionalism and promised to dish out quality signals and programmes to the people of the state. Also speaking shortly after assuming duty, Labaran Dundaye, the incumbent chairman of the NUJ in the state, who was appointed the new GM State Television Station, commended Gov. Aminu Tambuwal for reposing confidence on them. “I will strive to improve the operations of the station, boost revenue generation, training and retraining and the improve staff welfare. “As core professionals, I and the new MD will work diligently and honestly to turn around the fortunes of both the Radio and Television stations,’’ Dundaye, pledged In a solidarity message, the General Manager of the state Radio Station, Hajiya Halima Sarkin-Tudu, promised to partner with the new MD and GM to take the two media organizations to greater heights.

Harry. Also honoured included Seye Kehinde (City People Magazine) Mohammed Haruna, Dan Agbese, Ray Ekpu, BisiOlatilo (Biscon Communications), AdewunmiOgunsanya, NdukaObaigbena (CEO of ThisDay Newspapers), Frank Aigbogun (CEO BusinessDay), IquoUkoh, Emeka Obasi, Sam Amuka Pemu, Raymond Dokpesi (Daar Communications Limited), OnyemaUgochukwu (Former Editor of DailyTimes), Garba Shehu, DayoDuyile, Phill Osagie, Kayode Soyinka. Others are Doyin Abiola (Former Managing Director, Concord Newspaper), Dare Babarinsa, Mr. Ade Akinde, Comfort Obi, Jimi Solanke, Onyeka Onwenu, TaiwoAlimi, Duro Onabule, Mike Awoyinfa, KunleBakare (Encomium Magazine), Babafemi Ojudu, ModeleSarafa-Yusuf, Betty Irabor (Genevieve Magazine), Laban Namme, Dele Momodu, SoniIrabor (Inspiration FM), BunmiOke, Olatunji Dare, Patrick Dele Cole, Femi Akintunde-Johnson (Surprise Magazine, National Mirror, Encomium Ventures Ltd.), SieneAllwell-Brown (NLNG), ToluOgunkoya, Chris Anyanwu (Former NTA Journalist),Nkechi Alli Balogun, Ohi Alegbe, Equally recognised were Ben MurrayBruce (Chairman, The Silverbird Group), Henry Odukomaiya, Sunmi Smart-Cole, Ms.AbikeDabiri-Erewa (Politician), Ms.AdesuwaOnyenokwe (Today’s Women Magazine), Ajibola Ogunsola (The Punch Newspaper), Amin Moussalli (CEO AIM group (owners of Cool FM, Wazobia FM, Cool TV), Babu Akinbobola, YomiBadejo-Okusanya, BiodunShobanjo (Troyka Group), BukkyAjayi, Chris Doghudje, Chris Ubosi, Christopher Kolade [Ph.D], Comfort Okoronkwo, Cyril Stober (NTA ), Dapo Olorunyomi (Publisher, Premium Times Nigeria), Dayo Adeneye, Dele Alake,

and Dele Olojede (Pullitzer Prize Winer). The eventful evening also had the following honoured: Eddie Iroh, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Frank Olize (Former Journalist for Newsline), Funmi Iyanda, GbengaOgunleye, Ibe Kachikwu (Vice- Chairman Exxon-Mobil), Jacob Akinyemi Johnson, Jimi Awosika (Insight Communications), John Momoh (CEO of Channels Television), Kenny Adamson, Kenny Ogungbe, KoleAdemulegun, KunleAjibade, Larry Agose, Larry Izamoje, LekanOgunbanwo, Lolu Akinwunmi, Maiden Ibru (Guardian Newspaper), Mike Ajegbo, Mo Abudu (Chairman/CEO Ebonylife TV), Mumuni Alao, Nosa Igiebor (TELL Magazine). Media stalwarts equally celebrated included : Oladapo Charles Abraham, Omowunmi Owodunni, Peter Igho (NTA), Reuben Abati, Sadiq Daba, S i r Steve Omojafor(STB Mccann Lagos & former Chairman, Zenith Bank), Steve Ojo (Galaxy TV), Sunny Obazu-Ojeagbase (Complete Communications), Sunny Osa Adun, Tajudeen Adepetu (Soundcity, Spice TV, ONTV), Tom Adaba, Tony Iredia, Jahman Anikulapo, Tunji Olugbodi, UdemeUfot, Wale Adenuga (Wale Adenuga Productions), Yemi Ogunbiyi (Executive Director of the Guardian Newspaper), Dr Laolu Ogunniyi About the recognition, Founding Partner, Red Media Africa, Adebola Williams”As we celebrate our 10th year in running a media business, we decided to honour these ones who have gone before us, these legends who created the path we walk on, who built the foundation we rest on, who have inspired many of us and that is why we say we stand on the shoulders of giants. We thank them!” Earlier in his speech entitled, ‘We stand on the shoulders of giants’, Managing Partner of Red Media Africa, Chude Jideonwo, acknowledged the honourees for their invaluable contributions to the media industry in Nigeria. He said: “And I see all of them here today, and my heart swells with pride, with excitement, with joy, with love, with reverence, with awe. We are truly standing, this generation, on the shoulders of giants. “You, our mentors and forbears, icons and legends, across television, radio, print, public relations, advertising, are those giants. “For sure, older people bear some culpability for the Nigeria that we have today, but you won’t find many of those ones in this room today. “You made it possible for us to dream, you made it possible for us to imagine as far as our passions could take us, you took the path less travelled at a time when your peers chose the usual and the convention – banks, politics, oil. You created something truly special.”

Media

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Cool FM OAP Ajuka to promote Sweden, Nigeria collaborations Leonard Okachie

Ajuka

ool FM OAP, Rosemary Ajuka will be joining other young Nigerians who have been selected by Swedish Institute and Swedish Embassy to visit Sweden in order to promote future collaborations between Sweden and Nigeria. The programme tagged ‘The Swedish model – accountability, welfare state and social contract delivery’ is scheduled to hold from 25th – 30th October 2015 in an endeavour to promote an exchange dialogue about how accountability and social contract delivery can help create public participation and increased quality of life. Rosemary who has been identified as a huge potential for the future of Nigeria will meet partners from different

organisations such as; The Swedish Parliament, Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions, The Swedish Agency for Youth and Civil Society, and Swedish Tax Agency to effect the purpose of visit. Speaking on this trip, Rosemary Ajuka said:“It’s absolutely great to be internationally recognised. I feel blessed and excited about the opportunity to do this for my country and I hope that more young people will go out there and make Nigeria proud. Nigeria could really use some good press.” Other participants to go on this visit alongside Rosemary Ajuka include; Member of APC House of Representatives, Hon Adedapo Lam-Adesina, Alkasim Muhammad Zangina, Executive Director, The Initiative for Equal Rights (TIER), Olumide Femi Makanjuola, amongst others.

Media Abroad

Swaziland journalists seek millions in compensation T he two Swaziland journalists who were jailed for writing and publishing articles critical of the judiciary but later released by the Supreme Court are suing the Swazi Government for millions of emalangeni. Thulani Maseko, a human rights lawyer and writer, wants E20 million (about US$2 million) and Bheki Makhubu, the editor of the Nation magazine, where the articles appeared, wants E3.7 million. The pair spent about 470 days in jail of a two-year sentence after being convicted of contempt of court in a case that attracted condemnation from across the world. They claim unlawful arrest, prosecu-

Prime Minister of Swaiziland Barnabas Sibusiso Dlamini

tion and detention. Makhubu, in his letter of demand di-

rected to the office of Attorney General Majahenkhaba Dlamini, says his arrest, prosecution and detention were unlawful and without probable and/or reasonable cause and were motivated by malicious intent. Makhubu’s claim includes compensation for malicious arrest, prosecution and detention; defamation of character; emotional trauma, shock and discomfort and legal costs incurred during his trial. Thulani Maseko who is claiming E20 million stated that he was maliciously prosecuted and he was released when the Crown conceded that the arrest, prosecution and detentions were unlawful. Source: Gaborone

BBC bosses reject MPs’ suggestions of bias in EU coverage

BC bosses have dismissed claims the corporation is obliged not to do anything to harm the European Union after admitting that some funding comes from Brussels. MPs were told that £35m from the EU is put into an offshoot unit that provides broadcasting training in volatile overseas states and other money is “occasionally available”. Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg suggested the funding would hamper the BBC’s ability to report on the upcoming referendum on Britain’s future in the EU impartially. But David Jordan, director of editorial policy and standards, rejected the claims. “The BBC as a public service broadcaster doesn’t take money from the EU,” he told the European Scrutiny Committee. He told MPs that £35m had been put into Media Action, a unit owned by BBC but run independently, which is involved in countries such as Afghanistan to develop news and broadcasting skills. Pressed further about the funds available

from the EU, Mr Jordan told MPs: “There is another way in which EU funding comes into the picture and that is in relation to independent companies who, as you know, make programmes for the BBC. “In some areas independent companies for example in drama may benefit from EU funds to, for example, help location incentives to go to particular parts of the country.” He added: “There are also a couple of budgets which are available for people to do things like, for example, reversion programmes that they have made in English so that they are showable in different European countries around the world.” A clearly irked Mr Rees-Mogg said “you are now giving me a really different answer from the one you gave before”. He added: “You gave an answer about overseas aid and now you are saying the BBC does receive money to help with some of its programming and does receive money to translate some of its programming and you are therefore signed up to the contractual agree-

ments from the EU that require you not to damage its interests.” Jordan said “other funds are occasionally available” for programming, something the Tory MP claimed the editorial director had initially “denied”. The clash prompted committee chairman Bill Cash to repeatedly call for order, adding “can we just calm down a bit”. James Harding, director of news and current affairs, said: “What is absolutely clear is that the funding for Media Action, as it performs those charitable functions, is entirely separate from the BBC and from BBC News. - T h e Guardian (UK) BBC’s James Harding

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NUJ dissolves Adamawa executive over crisis

NUJ President, Waheed Odusile

Livinus Menedi Yola

igerian Union of Journalist has dissolved the executive committee of the Adamawa chapter of the Correspondents’ Chapel led by Umar Dankano, following a no confidence vote passed on the leadership of the group. The zonal secretary of the NUJ for the North East Alhaji Ahmed Suleiman, who took the decision on behalf of the national leadership of the body, followed its intervention into the crisis which gripped the journalist group after 12 out of the 22 membership body passed a vote of no confidence on the leadership of the group led by Dankano. But the sacked executive however refused to vacate office, allegedly faulting the decision of the congress. Up until the dissolution of the Dankano led Executive of Adamawa State chapter of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the NUJ there have been growing revolt over the lacklustre leadership of the exco, harassment of government officials and their refusal to hold a congress meeting following their re-election in May, which the 14 members used as grounds for their consequent impeachment. But before their impeachment two members: Daji Sani,Thisday Correspondent and Sani Abubakar of FRCN, both members of the exco, quickly tendered their resignation to stave off their impeachment following their discovery that 14 members out of its 22 members had signed a petition demanding the exco to hold a congress. Suleiman who waded into the crisis generated by congress decision which sacked the Adamawa chapter of the Correspondents’ chapel led by Dankano, the Peoples Daily Correspondent for the state, his secretary Yakubu Uba, News Agency of Nigeria and Ibrahim Abdulaaziz, VOA Correspondent, observed that the members acted within the ambit of the constitution before reaching the decision to dissolve the exco. He declared that the action of the congress taken in line with Article 5 subsection 6 ( a) and (b), of the constitution of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, therefore stands. The section of the NUJ constitution which the members relied upon to impeach the leadership stipulates as follow: “In the case of chapels, 50 per cent of members can call for a meeting and appoint any of their members to preside. Any disciplinary action taken against such a chairman shall be binding.” The NUJ Zonal Secretary Alhaji Suleiman accordingly, set up a 6- member credentials committee headed by Mathew Ornan, Verbatim Magazine which also have the following as members- David Molomo, The SUN newspapers, Austin Ajayi, Premium Times, Emmanuel Njaprim, Sunrise newspapers, Kabiru Anwar, Daily Trust and Auwal Adams, NAN to conduct fresh elections to fill the vacuum created by the dissolution of the leadership of the journalist group.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

s traders on Lagos Island positioned themselves to take advantage of booming business during the forthcoming Christmas, there is apprehension that the state of the nation’s economy may not allow them to stockpile their shops with adequate wares to meet the demand of shoppers during the period. Speaking with Broad Street Diary, BSD, on some of their challenges while trying to take position in order to take advantage of booming sales during the period, a cross section of traders on Lagos Island told BSD that their major headache was the high exchange rate of the country’s currency more so in an economy that is imports dependent. ‘’The dollar which used to exchanged for between of N160 or N165 at the beginning of this year, now exchange for N200 and above,’’ said some of the traders. Speaking to BSD, on his preparation to restock for the Christmas period, Mr. Rasheed Hamsat who deals in the sales of beverages like wine, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, said they need to restore their goods and get more products for the Christmas. Hamsat said traders on Broad Street and adjoining markets like Balogun, Bread Fruit, Ebute Ero and others have been making plans to restock their shops, but are hampered by the problem of high exchange rates. “The major problem confronting us is the weak value of our naira,’’ he said. Hamsat, said this is the time for restocking, as most companies would have to close for the Christmas holiday very soon, lamented that the week value of the nation’s currency has made the people to be poor. ‘’We don’t know what do, even if you go to the bank to get the loan to restock, are you sure the people would have the purchasing powers to buy such goods, this is our dilemma,’’ he said. Another trader on Balogun market, Mr Elizabeth Amaefule, told BSD that they need to travel in order to get more goods for the Christmas sale, but that the major challenges confronting them is the weak naira which has to be exchanged for strong

Broad Street Diary

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Christmas: Traders lament high exchange rate

Traders hawking on the road at Lagos Island.

dollars and pound sterling among other currencies. She is however of the opinion that the exchange rates would determine the prices of goods during the Christmas period, “the price we buy will determine what we sell, but we will make sure that we make something out of it,’’ she remark. Mr. Ibrahim Usman, who sells fowls, at Eute Ero market also on Lagos Island disclosed that he is making a big plan for the forthcoming Christmas period. I am going to buy a lot of fowls,” because many people do buy fowls during the period and we need to meet our customers need for them to have a pleasant Christmas,” he added. Ibrahim made it known that; he has booked for fowls

from his suppliers in Ikorodu and Ibadan so that he will be able to meet the demands of his customers during the Christmas. He further stated that many sale spots have been identified so as to bring the product closer to the customers. He however, lamented the high cost of goods in the country which he said was brought about by the weak naira. Usman, in his word said the high cost of goods has weakened the purchasing powers of the average Nigerians. Another trader on Broad Street, Mrs. Mojisola Peter, implored the present administration to do something on the economy so as to effect the real change which Nige-

rians have been calling for since the beginning of his administration. Another trader who gave her name simply as Kofoworola, who sells decoration materials said her plan for the Christmas is to travel next week to buy new fashion wares. “Because people want new fashion materials for their decoration and to satisfy our customers for the period I have to travel abroad for shopping” she said. Kofoworola, however, said traders are facing a lot of challenges toward their preparation and that the major challenge is the high exchange of the naira to other currencies. She pleaded with the Federal Government to quickly do something to shore up the value of the naira for people

PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

to celebrate a memorable Christmas. Another trader on Lagos Island, who deals footwear, Edu Chosen, said the economy of the country did not allow traders to make big plan towards the Christmass. “Everything is costly due to the weak naira which makes our supplier to increase the prices of our goods due to the expensive raw materials they are using, but our customer will not think of that, they will still price the products very low’’ he add. Another shoe seller under Apongbon bridge, Michael Isaac, said the major challenge to their preparation towards Christmas is money, there is no money in circulation he said. -James Elegbeleye

News

Thursday, October 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CFAO OTIS: Workers, management parley on grievances

Lagos Island based multinational company that was engulf in workers’ protest last week, CFAO OTIS has said that as a truly responsible multinational company, it is alive of their social responsibilities to their workers and host communities. The statement was contained in a press statement issued in the wake of last week protest by aggrieved workers of the company. CFAO a company based on outer Marina, Lagos which deals in the sales, installations, maintenance and repair of lift escalators had last week Monday, witnessed, furious workers’ anger when staff of the company went on a peaceful protest within the premises of the company in Marina Street, Lagos Island, chanting solidarity songs to press home their demands.

The workers’ protest attracted the attention of the company management as it quickly called for an emergency meeting with the embattled union leaders where it was agreed that a more comprehensive stakeholders’ meeting, be held last week Wednesday to put the situation under control. The meeting was held as scheduled where the management agreed to address all the grievances of the protesting workers, a development which the vice chairman and the secretary of the aggrieved workers’ union affirmed was being addressed gradually by the management. “We met as agreed and we tabled our grievances before them and they agreed to comply with the resolutions made. “This, to the best of our knowledge is being addressed gradually, for now, there is no rancor between the union and the management, rather, it is rapprochements as we are really mending fences. But, in a reaction to some of the issues raised earlier by the protesting workers, a management staff who preferred anonymity, stated that despite the process of outsourcing workers of the company, CFAO OTIS had taken it upon itself to ensure that workers were not subjected to any form of ill-treatment. “I think there is a lacuna in communication somewhere which led to all these crises as some of the issues raised by the workers have been responded to and appropriately addressed even earlier before their protest”. For instance, how thinkable or believable it is for us to have

just one clinic for our entire workforce in the whole of Lagos State? That is fallacious. As a matter of fact, we have through Delog the outsourcing company, issued an Internal Memo since sometimes in June this year, that we would increase the number of hospitals for the benefits of members of our staff in order to adequately take care of their medical needs. The Memo reads; “DELOG INTERNAL MEMO This is to inform all Delog staff that management has increased the number of hospitals accessible for medical care with effect from July, 2015. We are convinced that the addition to the existing number of

hospitals will enhance prompt and effective medical care for all staff. Kindly find below the hospitals convenient for you”. This Memo is still on the notice board for confirmation. We have family support loan scheme for all our workers which allows them to obtain interest free loan payable at the end of the month. “There are some organisations in Nigeria that are owing workers months of salaries, but we do not owe our workers. “Incidentally, our staff busses are on standby to convey workers to their various designated points within the metropolis with ease after work every

day. We even have landed property in places like Mowe, Ikorodu, Ibafo to mention but a few for the benefit of interested members of staff with ease of payment. Regarding rumour of sack there was no such incident, it still boils down to the issue of communication gaps that I earlier talked about. Nobody was sacked and there is no such plan in sight. “The only case of the member of staff mentioned was redeployment and was never a sack as it was erroneously reported which brings me to a statement credited to Mr. Bayo Oke the Deputy General Man-

ager in last week publication. Let me put the record straight because I was ably present at the meeting, Mr. Bayo was misquoted what he said when the issue of likely retrenchment was raised by the workers was; “The issue of downsizing and increase in wages are beyond our capacity at this level as all of us including myself want salary increase, but such decision rest solely on the higher authority”. I think there is more to the workers grievances than meet the eyes. However, the management is doing all it can to address all their concern”. –Omoju Busayo

Kitchen wares

Gorodomu the market for your kitchen wears

ave you just completed your house or moving to a new location and you desire to have a modern and tastefully equipped kitchen? You certainly will need to pay a visit to Broad Street and in particular gorodomu. You may not have to visit a supermarket or a factory here. Apart from Gorodomu market which is noted for the sales of cheap kitchen wares, right in the open space or shops, on Broad Street and its surrounding markets.

You can get the latest kitchen wares or accessories ranging from plates, pots, plate rack, glass cups, wardrobes, flasks, spoons, toasters, blenders, stoves – just name it. Ask Mrs. Oyindamola Amusa a dealer. She told BSD that many Nigerians have discovered the market and visit every day to equip their kitchen to taste. The reason, according to her, is not farfetched. Prices here are far lower than you can ever get in any of the shops or supermarkets outside Lagos Island. “Like

the big shops, we have all the products here and our customers are always happy because they can get anything they want anytime they visit our stand. “Because we get our wares nearby and we are not paying huge amount on rent like shop owners, our wares are cheap and affordable which is why people prefer to come to us.” Another dealer, Mrs. Temitope Olaniyi told BSD that selling in an open space was not really not what she wanted, but because she could

not afford a shop on Broad Street, she opted for the open space and business is booming for her all the same. On what she make daily, Olaniyi said when market booms she make between N40 to N50 thousand naira. Now she won’t mind moving to a shop to expand her business. “I want government to build shops that are affordable for people like us because when they build shops and the rent is high, we cannot afford it,” she said. –Saidat Alausa

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NASSIMA seeks awareness for $500m development fund

ice President, National Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, NASSIMA, Billy Gillis-Harry, has called for greater awareness on the $500 million Nigeria Content Development Fund, NCDF. Gillis-Harry made the appeal yesterday at the 5th Practical Nigeria Content conference in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, recalls that the fund was established by the Nigeria Content Act 2010, and is being managed by the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB. The fund is pooled from one per cent of all contracts awarded in the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry. The fund would be used in developing the supply chain and building local capacity in the industry. About 70 per cent of the pool is used to provide guarantees for single digit and longer tenure lending by banks and funding institutions to Nigerian service companies seeking to acquire critical asset. The remaining 30 per cent will be applied for direct intervention by the NCDMB in critical infrastructure development and training programmes. Gillis-Harry said many people, who stood the chance to take advantage of the funding, had not been

doing so because they were not fully aware of it. He advised the NCDMB to organise more sensitisation programmes and workshop to educate stakeholders on the nature and requirement of the funds. Gillis-Harry also called for synergy between regulators in the oil and gas sector. He said at the moment, the sector is ridden with conflicting laws, which makes it difficult for companies to grow. Also, Chairman of SIAO, a Nigeria audit firm, Robert Ade-Odiachi, said so many jobs were lost to foreign firms that posed as Nigerian companies. He said in the financial circle, lots of contracts that should go to indigenous firms ended up with KPMG, PWC, and Ernest and Young. These firms, he said, had their mother companies in other countries, but only had branches in Nigeria with 51 per cent shares. “These shares were owned by Nigerians on paper, but get most of the audit jobs in the sector, despite the local content law. “I feel that this law needs to be reviewed so that the terms that define a company as an indigenous one are stated clearly,” he said. Ade-Odiachi called for classification and categorisation of companies in the oil and gas sector. This, according to the NASSIMA vice president, will bring professionalism and promote technical expertise in the sector.

Bayelsa prisons, NDE to equip inmates with skills

igerian Prisons Service in Bayelsa State yesterday said it would soon begin regular skill acquisition programmes for inmates in its facilities to prepare them for life outside prisons. The State Controller of Prisons, Mmeabe Legbosi, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the National Directorate of Employment, NDE in Yenagoa, the state capital, where he solicited the assistance of the agency. “We want to begin training the inmates on different vocational skills. So, we are here to seek support from NDE. “All we need is synergy between us and the director-

South South

Thursday, October 22, 2015

ate which will be facilitators of the programme. “The Prison Command in Bayelsa wants to bring change into the state’s prison community and build a better society. “What can be done to the system to bring that change? “The inmates need our help and support to make them useful to the society; we want to train them to enable them become selfemployed when they re-join the society,” he said. Responding, Mr David Apakasa, the NDE Coordinator in Bayelsa, said the directorate was willing to support the initiative in ensuring inmates in the state prisons are equipped with skills.

Police arraign 3 nursing students for defilement Sebastine Ebhuomhan Benin

he Nigerian police yesterday arraigned three male students of Edo State School of Nursing alleged to have raped a six-year-old, Sharon Eghobamien. The three students were arraigned in a case marked as: Charge MOR/210C/2015, filed by the Commissioner of Police against the three

students: Egbai Kenneth, 26, Paul Aghama, 22, and Osemwegie Jeffery, 23. The first of two-count charges read: That you, Egbai Kenneth, Paul Aghama and Osemwegie Jeffery between March and May 2015 at the State School of Nursing Hostel on Sapele Road, Benin City in Oredo Magisterial District, did conspire among yourselves to commit an offence punishable under Section 517 of the

Criminal Code Cap 48, Vol. II Laws of the defunct Bendel State of Nigeria 1976 now applicable in Edo State.” The second count read: That you Egbai Kenneth, Paul Aghama and Osemwegie between March and May 2015 at the State School of Nursing Hostel on Sapele road, Benin City in Oredo Magisterial District, unlawfully and indecently assaulted one Sharon Eghobamien, ‘f ’,

aged six years, by using (finger) nails to penetrate her vagina and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 360 of the Criminal Code Cap 48, Vol. II Laws of the defunct Bendel State of Nigeria 1976 now applicable in Edo State. Chief Magistrate I of Court 3, Mrs. M. Adebanjo, adjourned the case to November 20 for the accused persons to take their plea.

Controller-General, Nigerian Prisons Service, Dr. Peter Ekpendu (left), and Commandant, Prisons Armed Squad Training School, Hassan Shema, reviewing a parade during the passing out parade of the 6th Basic Recruit Course of the service, in Owerri, yesterday.

20 pro-Biafra supporters remanded in prison Dennis Naku

Port Harcourt

Magistrate court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State yesterday arraigned 20 pro-Biafra supporters following Tuesday’s protest over the arrest of Radio Biafra director, Nnamdi Kanu. The supporters, whose sympathisers besieged the court, were later remanded in prison custody for conspiracy and treason. The accused persons who were arrested and arraigned in court by police officers from Zone 6 are facing three-count charges in Suit Number PMC/1195c/2015. The accused include Benson Sunday, Em-

manuel Ali, Ukeme Monday, Chibuzor Eechina, Charles Eze, Egbo Okechukwu, Chibona Ifion, John Douglas, Ezenwa Alphonus, Wori Endurance, Chinomere Nwolu, Henry Eze, Friday Uzunwa, Igbodo Abio, Akaniyene Uwem, Eni Iboro, Obinna Stephen, Monday Ocha, Obinna Ibekwe and Kingsley Ezengorie. Accused persons were arrested on Tuesday while on demonstration in Port Harcourt to air their grievance over the detention of Kanu. Mr A. A. Ajagha is the prosecutor in the matter. According to count one of the charge, the accused persons were said to have without lawful authority demonstrated and chanted war songs that

‘House is not part of Biafra’ which caused panic in the oil-rich city, on reasonable grounds with intent to intimidate or cause panic within the state and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 37 (1) of the Criminal Code, Cap C38 Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2004. Count two while listing the suspects names and others at large, stated that they ‘‘On October 20, 2015 at about 1400hours at Ikwerre road, Port Harcourt in the Port Harcourt Magisterial District, did willfully and unlawfully damage the Nigerian flag hoisted at Zenith Bank Plc Ikoku branch, Port Harcourt and thereby committed an offence

punishable under Section 451 of the Criminal Code, Cap C38 Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2004.” Ugwueze I.O, Destiny S.I. Chima and other three lawyers who represented the accused persons applied for the bail. Ruling on the bail application, the trial Chief Magistrate, S.D. AndrewJaja, said his court lacks jurisdiction to try the matter, but following the arguments of the accused lawyers he adjourned the case till October 27 to enable the counsel address the court on the issue of bail. The Chief Magistrate further remanded the accused persons in prison custody pending the adjourned date.

North

Thursday, October 22, 2015

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FRSC is TSA-compliant –Corps Marshal OLUSEGUN KOIKI

Wife of Nasarawa State Governor, Hajiya Salamatu Al-Makura; wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Jumai Agara, and NAWOJ President, Mrs. Inyinwa Omowole, at NAWOJ’s capacity building workshop on gender and leadership, in Lafia, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

We haven’t collected bailout fund –Kwara govt WOLE ADEDEJI ILORIN

wara State Government yesterday told the State House of Assembly that it has not collected any bailout fund to pay arrears of salaries of local government staff and primary school teachers. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mr. Benjamin Fatigun made this known when he appeared before the House Committee on Finance and Appropriations to shed light on the payment of bailout funds to the state. Fatigun said rather, the

N4.32bn loan the government secured from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, out of the bailout was meant to offset the arrears of salaries of May and August of core civil servants. Fatigun explained that though the State House of Assembly had given approval to the state government to access the bail out from Federal Government to clear outstanding salary arrears of local governments and SUBEB, the money, amounting to N5bn was yet to be released by CBN. He said Governor AbdulFattah Ahmed had to

access a loan of N5.017bn last month from a commercial bank to pay LGA staff and primary school teachers pending when the bailout fund would be released by CBN. The government also explained why workers of tertiary institutions and government owned agencies were being owed salaries. State Accountant General, Alhaji Suleiman Ishola said his office included the payment of their salaries in the proposal for the disbursement of the bailout fund, adding however that it was the CBN that removed them from the

bailout loan. He pointed out that there was no way the state government could deviate from the guidelines of CBN, because the apex bank requested for payment schedules of the state workers before the N4.32bn could be accessed. Chairman of the Finance and Appropriation Committee, Alhaji Mashood Bakare said the House would regularly invite officials to make clarifications on the finances of the state to ensure transparency, prudency and accountability in governance.

Lalong gets Assembly’s nod to access N10bn loan JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

espite opposition in some quarters, Plateau State House of Assembly yesterday approved Governor Simon Lalong’s bid to obtain a N10bn loan. The House had earlier granted approval for the governor to access a loan of N9.8bn to offset the backlog of salary arrears bringing the total loan

granted to N19.8bn within the past four months Some lawmakers had initially opposed the latest loan request by the governor, expressing displeasure over how the previous fund approved by the House was utilised But in a twist yesterday, the lawmakers approved the latest N10bn loan during their plenary. Justifying the action of the House, member representing Mangu South and

Chairman, House Committee on Environment and Solid Mineral, Emmanuel Dakas, said the lawmakers had no choice than to approve the loan to enable the governor carry on with developmental projects in the state. His said: “We approved the loan because that is the only option for the state to get funds to complete most of the projects left behind by the immedi-

ate out-gone government. “The Internal Generated Revenue, IGR, has already been tied down with the loan collected by the past administration, so apart from the statutory allocation and VAT, the state does not have any other source of income since the IGR is already tied down to a loan that was collected. If not for the bailout funds, the state would have been unable to pay salaries.”

No mutual distrust between Ganduje, Kwankwaso –SSG

ecretary to the Kano State Government, SSG, Alhaji Rabi’u Bichi, has dismissed rumours of a mutual distrust between Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and his predecessor, Sen. Rabiu

Kwankwaso. Bichi made the clarification while speaking to newsmen on the 5th Anniversary of the formation of the ‘Kwankwasiyya Ideology’ in Kano yesterday The annual celebration

is a mark of recognition of Kwankwaso’s selfless service to the state. He said the impression was only being created and promoted to cause confusion and chaos in the state.

“Those people are political jobbers who must feed on gossips to survive. “In politics, gossips are the order of the day and a ploy being perfected by some people to score some political capital.

orps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Mr. Boboye Oyeyemi said the commission has fully complied with the Treasury Single Account, TSA, as directed by the Federal Government. Oyeyemi commended the government for the introduction of the policy, which he said, if fully implemented, would enhance accounting system in the country. He stated this yesterday at the opening of a three-day workshop organised for FRSC accounts staff by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation towards the efficient implementation of the new accounting policy. A statement by the Head, Media Relations and Strategy, FRSC, Mr. Bisi Kazeem quoted Oyeyemi as saying that the policy would curb excessive spending by agencies and ministries. He added that in accordance with the directives, all corps’ accounts with commercial banks had been closed down following the com-

mencement of the implementation of the policy on 15 September, 2015. Oyeyemi further disclosed that FRSC was one of the first public institutions to have complied with the policy and called on all the accounting staff of the commission to embrace it as well. Also speaking at the occasion, Project Manager of the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System, GIFMIS, Mr. Destco Mugabi, who represented the Accountant General of the Federation, commended FRSC for its diligent accounting system. He declared that the office of the Accountant General of the Federation is impressed by the compliance of FRSC, stressing that it was one of the agencies to fully comply with the new policy. He insisted that the commission had been doing well by ensuring that its generated fines were always remitted fully to the Federation Accounts, emphasising that the workshop was organsied to enlighten accounts officers on the new policy in order to facilitate its implementation in the corps.

TETFund revokes approvals over unaccessed funds

xecutive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFund, Prof. Suleiman Bogoro, said the agency revoked approvals granted to some institutions over their inability to access their allocations for five years. Bogoro made this known when Governor Abubakar Bello of Niger State visited him in Abuja yesterday. According to Bogoro, TETFund is striving to maintain its institutional image which is hinged on accountability and transparency. “Just about nine months ago, the Board of Trustees of TETFund had to vacate some approvals that have been lying for four to five years and were not accessed. “For some, even ordinary Approval in Principle (AIP) we never got from them; so we said no; there are some other in-

stitutions that need this money. “We had to revoke them and re-allocate to other institutions,” he said. The TETFund boss said that there were operational requirements that tertiary institutions in Niger State had not met, hence their inability to access much funds like other institutions in some states. Earlier, Bello had expressed concern over the disparity in accessing TETFund intervention funds among higher institutions in the country. He said that the visit had offered him the opportunity of understanding TETFund modalities, adding that institutions in his state had to approach TETFund in the appropriate way. “I now understand how TETFund operates; we will go home and make corrections with regards to the procedure of accessing the funds.

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North

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Terrorism: FG donates N25m to two Taraba hospitals J USTIN TYOPUUSU JALINGO

L-R: A guest, Alhaji Audu Usman; President, Nigerian Polo Federation, Francis Ogboro and Adamawa State Governor Jubrilla Bindow, during the final game of the just concluded MTN Yola 2015 Polo Tournament in Yola, recently.

53 killed, 100,420 displaced by flood –NOA WALE IBRAHIM LOKOJA

ational Orientation Agency, NOA, has said no fewer than 53 people lost their lives in 11 states across the country due to the 2015 flood disaster. It also revealed that 100,420 persons have been displaced between August and September this year. While addressing communities yesterday at Koton Karfe during a one-day public enlightenment/sensitisation programme for people living within flood-prone areas of Kogi local government area of Kogi State, the NOA Director-General, Mr Mike Omeri, stated that the alert given by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency of excessive flooding in 2015 is real, noting that 53 people died while over 100,420 were displaced. Omeri, who noted that the unfortunate effect of

INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

orno and Yobe police commands yesterday reiterated the prohibition on sales and usage of fireworks, including “knockouts” as it is being enforced by the police and other law enforcement agencies across the two states. The prohibitions were contained in press state-

flood disaster had served as an eye opener to Nigerian government, adding that the effects of global warming and climatic change could already be seen in the country. “We cannot hold back the rains and floods because they are not within our control, but we can take practical measures in ensuring our personal safety and the protection of our property from the ravaging effects of flood,” he noted. “This is why today’s programme is very apt as it provides the platform for us to remind ourselves of the dangers of flood and to take practical measures to secure our lives and properties.” The NOA boss, however, assured that the federal government is fully committed to the welfare of flood victims, and implored them to remain patient and be vigilant. The Ohimege of Koton Karfe, Abudulrazak Isa Koto, appealed to the fed-

eral government to come to the aid of victims of flood disaster in his domain, stressing that their condition of living is pathetic. The monarch said since 2012 his kingdom, especially the rural areas, had been seriously affected by perennial flooding, therefore rendering the victims homeless, with attendant loss of property and farm products. He said: “For the past three years, my people living along riverine areas have been passing through untold hardship as a result of flooding. They have lost their property and farm product to the flood disaster, which is why I am appealing to the federal government through the National Orientation Agency to come to our aid, because the loss is too much for us to bear.” While commending Omeri for the agency’s herculean task of sensitising citizens on the

Nigeria’s cultural values and peaceful co-existence, the royal father urged him to remain resolute in the discharge of NOA statutory functions for the betterment of the people. Also, the State Director of NOA, Chief Ibikunle Medubi, pointed out that many communities across nine local government areas of Kogi State are affected by this year’s flood, stressing however that the devastation was not as serious as that of 2012. He said NOA recognises the socio-economic dislocation of the flood and the accompanying challenges, saying “that is why this programme is organised.” He however commended the effort of National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, in co-organising the programme and the untiring efforts in giving relief materials to the affected communities all over the country.

Police restate firework ban in Borno, Yobe ments by ASP Isuku Victor and Toyin Gbadegesin, the respective police public relations officers, PPROs, of the sister states. The separate statements read in part: “The prohibition of the sale and use of fireworks is still in force and the public is hereby reminded that any use of fireworks

before, during and after this yuletide season is prohibited.’’ Isuku and Gbadegesin in their statements also warned: “Any violator of this order shall be viewed as security saboteurs and shall be arrested and prosecuted in the court of law.” The re-echoing of the prohibition was in view of the approaching yule-

tide which could encourage the use of fireworks and other explosives during festivities in December and New Year of 2016. The use of fire crackers and other fireworks, according to the police commands, however constitutes threats to security operatives and lawabiding citizens of Borno and Yobe states.

ederal Government, through Victims Support Fund, VSF, yesterday donated N25 million to Taraba Specialist hospital and General hospital Wukari to provide free medical care for victims of insurgency in the state. Executive Director, Victim Support Fund, Prof. Sunday Ocheche, at the presentation of cheques to the hospitals, warned against mismanaging the fund, saying the organisation would not be happy with any hospital that fails to use the funds for the set purpose. “The era of corruption is gone; this fund was donated to these hospitals to assist in purchasing medical equipment and consumables that would help to provide free and enhanced medical care for victims of insurgency. “We will work together with management of

the hospitals to ensure that this fund is judiciously used,” he said. Ocheche, who noted that the chairman of VSF, General T. Y. Danjuma is from the state, said it will be a disgrace if Taraba State fails to utilise the fund judiciously. He added that the organisation is supporting hospitals in the country to enhance their productivity and would account to Nigerians on how the fund is spent. Responding on behalf of the benefiting hospitals, Chief Medical Director, State Specialist hospital, Dr. Joel Remande, assured that the money donated to the hospitals would be properly utilised. Though Taraba has not been adversely affected by the activities of Boko Haram insurgency, it has witnessed protracted internal communal crisis and hosts Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, from Yobe, Adamawa and Borno states.

Nasarawa partners banks to check ghost pensioners IGBAWASE UKUMBA LAFIA

uthorities of Nasarawa State Pension Board, NSPB, yesterday said it is collaborating with commercial banks in the country for routine biometric exercise of pensioners to check ghost pensioners in the state. Director-General of the board, Usman Adams, disclosed this to journalists during a chat in Lafia, the state capital, adding that the board’s action was aimed at arresting illegal withdrawals of monies by relatives of deceased persons. He said: “The physical biometric exercise being collaborated with the commercial banks has really assisted the board. As I sit here, I cannot know who is dead or alive, but the physical biometrics has helped us a lot to uncover ghost pensioners and dupers. “Duping was apparent in the past as some

miscreants deceived pensioners in the name of processing their pension and gratuity entitlements. Now for the past three years, we have not recorded any issue of duping.” He therefore appealed to pensioners in the state to exercise more patience as arrangements were on towards paying their gratuities. According to him, “delay in the payment of gratuities to beneficiaries is not peculiar to the state alone but a national phenomenon.” He consequently blamed the delay in paying pension entitlements on retirees’ delay in processing their files, and urged them to always process their entitlement files at the right time. Adams also attributed delay in paying pensioners at the local councils to the low Internally Generated Revenue, IGR base of the state, adding however that the anomaly would be rectified soon.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

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World News

I would like to encourage the Israelis and Palestinians to show some courage and get back to political and peaceful solution. –UN SECRETARY GENERAL, BAN KI-MOON

Afolabi Gambari

WITH AGENCY REPORT

outh African students yesterday clashed with the Police as they marched to Parliament in a protest over a rise in fees. Police fired stun grenades as the protesters were trying to force their way into the parliamentary complex. Proposed tuition fee hikes of between 10 per cent and 12 per cent have sparked protests at universities across the country. Students have complained that higher fees may exclude poorer black students. Inside parliament in Cape Town a budget speech by Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene was temporarily halted as members of the opposition Economic Freedom Fighters chanted “Fees must fall”, a slogan borrowed from the students. Student bodies have rejected a government offer to cap tuition fee increases at 6% for 2016, and earlier threatened to close all the country’s universities as protests over tuition fees spread. At least 10 institutions have so far been affected with some closing until the situation is resolved. Both #NationalShutDown and #FeesMustFall continue to trend on social media in South Africa. A report said the protests seemed to intensify as students refused to back down, despite heavy police presence at most institutions.

Fee hike: SA Police, students in violent clash

Congolese urged to “go peaceful” An opposition leader in CongoBrazzaville, Pascal Tsaty Mabiala, has called for a peaceful uprising ahead of Sunday’s referendum on whether the president can run for office again, according to reports. The call comes after at least four people were killed in clashes between police and protesters. Mabiala of the PanAfrican Union for Social Democracy wants to stop Sunday’s vote going ahead. The vote is aimed at pushing through changes to the constitution such as scrapping age and twoterm limits. Police fired shots and tear gas in the capital, Brazzaville, on Tuesday in a clamp down on protests against the president’s bid for a third term. Texting and internet services were cut and public meetings banned ahead of the referendum, residents said.

Ebola nurse’s health improves

Protesting students trying to force their way into the Parkliament in Pretoria yesterday

Student politics have been part of this country’s political fibre for many years. In the apartheid era, students took to the streets to protest against being taught in Afrikaans, one of the main languages spoken by the white minority.

In Cape Town, white students were reported to form human shields between black students and the police. “Some of us can afford university fees, but we want to support the majority of black South African families who cannot,” one

white student said. Students said the proposed fee hike amounted to discrimination in a country where the average income of black families was far less than that of white families.

Al-Shabab renegades return to Kenya

early 700 recruits have returned to Kenya after quitting militant groups, a report by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said yesterday. The report however warned that a failure to reintegrate returnees may lead to further radicalisation. Somalia’s Islamist al-Shabab militants are believed to be recruiting heavily in neighbouring north-eastern Kenya. Kenya has seen a series of militant attacks with one at a university earlier this year killed 148 people. Although the report does not mention where the returnees came from, Deputy Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (Supkem) Hassan Ole Nadu has con-

AFRICAN BULLETIN

firmed that they were fighting for al-Shabab. The 36-page report was compiled by the IOM, Supkem and the Kenya’s interior ministry. Researchers found that al-

Al-Shabab militants

though most adults joined the group voluntarily, nearly a third of children interviewed said they were forced to enlist. “On the one hand, they present an opportunity to counter

the radicalising ideologies and recruitment strategies of armed groups,” the report said. “On the other, the response of the security forces is widely perceived to be promoting further radicalisation as the returnees themselves believe that they are unsafe and have limited reintegration options,” it added. Security in the country was identified by participants as the main obstacle to their successful reintegration in the country. A total of 185 respondents were interviewed, representing nearly 30 per cent of the estimated total of 684 returnees in the country. The majority were between 18 and 34 years old.

A Scottish nurse, Pauline Cafferkey, who contracted Ebola while working in Sierra Leone is recovering well after the virus caused her to develop meningitis. Cafferkey, 39, was readmitted to an isolation unit at the Royal Free Hospital in London earlier this month after suffering an apparent relapse. Health officials confirmed she had been diagnosed with meningitis caused by Ebola and had a “long recovery ahead”. Dr. Michael Jacobs, who is treating Cafferkey at the Royal Free Hospital in London, said: “Pauline has become unwell by meningitis caused by the Ebola virus. “But to be very clear about this, she hasn’t been re-infected with the Ebola virus. “This is the original Ebola virus that she had many months ago, which has been lying inside the brain, replicating at a very low level probably, and has now re-emerged to cause this clinical illness of meningitis. And this is obviously a serious thing.”

Supermodel fights endometriosis When Millen Magese won the Miss Tanzania competition in 2001 and became an international fashion model, she became an idol to many African women. Rich and famous, she has lived a glamorous life travelling the world, modelling clothes for top designers. But off the catwalk, she has also become a heroine to many women for speaking up about a debilitating gynaecological condition, endometriosis, which can cause severe pain and infertility. To get the message across, she established a foundation and begun an awareness campaign via social media.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Thursday September 4, 2014

Bayern Munich is past for me. Please, ask me about my new club

–Manchester United midfielder, Bastian Schweinsteiger

El-Kanemi

Giwa

Wikki

IfeanyiUbah

3SC

Taraba

Heartland

Sharks

Nasarawa

Enyimba

Abia

Lobi

Kwara

Bayalsa

Dolphins

Pillars

Giwa

Heartland

NOA canvasses massive support for Eaglets

Emenike

Joel Ajayi ABUJA

We’re unaware of Emenike retirement –NFF ... He’s replaceable –Oliseh

Paul Erewuba he Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), yesterday denied knowledge of Super Eagles striker, Emmanuel Emenike, insisting the Al Ain FC of UAE player was yet to notify the association of his alleged retirement. It could be recalled that Emenike took to social media on Tuesday to announce his retirement from international football. According to him, “After five great years, I am happy to announce that I have put a full stop to my national team career for the sake of national peace,” his statement on Instagram read. Continuing, he said; “It’s a pleasure for me to have played for this great country. I

Sport

FIFA probes Beckenbauer, Villar

Glo League results

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

never regretted it and I think it’s the best time to end it. The Super Eagles is a camp, not a family house. And it shouldn’t be a threat zone for any individual.” However, NFF spokesperson Ademola Olajire yesterday reportedly revealed that Emenike had not communicated with the country’s football governing body. “The NFF is yet to receive any official notification of retirement from Emenike. He didn’t inform us about his decision before going to the social media to announce it.” But, Super Eagles head coach, Sunday Oliseh, while reacting to Emenike’s retirement, allayed fears, imploying Nigerians not to panic that Emenike is replaceable. Oliseh, however expressed shock over the player’s sudden retirement of from the Super Eagles, adding that nobody ex-

cept the entity Nigeria itself is irreplaceable. “It was a big shocker for us and a big shocker for me personally... personally, I still don’t accept that he has retired because officially I have not heard anything from him and I don’t think the Federation have also heard from him, only what we know is what was posted on social media,” Oliseh said yesterday. Oliseh explained how he has made Emenike part of his rebuilding process and accorded him more playing time than any striker so far under his reign. “I have made him (Emenike) part of our rebuilding process, in fact he has had more playing time than any striker we have had, so I am very surprised that he has decided to retire”.

ollowing the successive victories of Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets in the ongoing FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Chile, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has commended the team for its impressive performance and called on Nigerians worldwide to support the team and pray for its emergence as world champions. The NOA Director General, Mike Omeri call for support yesterday in Abuja, that the Eaglets have displayed high level of commitment to fly the country’s flag higher even in the face of critical adversity. He noted that with only a handful of supporters, the Eaglets were undeterred in their determination to rise above all challenges and win the trophy, adding that they resilience was a clear message that Nigerian football is on the rise. Omeri recalled that the Golden Eaglets were so named by President Muhammadu Buhari as military Head of State and was optimistic that his second coming to power would confirm them as Super Golden Eaglets. He urged the team and crew of the Under-17 team to remain focused and Nigerians to continue to pray for the nation’s success in all things that Nigerians are involved in, especially the Under-17 World Cup and the fight against insurgency so that Nigerians will bring glory to our fatherland. It would be recalled that the Golden Eaglets clinched a gold medal at the maiden Under-17 World Cup in Beijing, China in 1985 and have repeated same feat thrice.

Sports

Thursday, October 22, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Eaglets celebrate one of their five goals against hosts, Chile

Eaglets face Croatia in final group game

... Advance in round of 16

he Golden Eaglets will tomorrow play Croatia in their last group game in the ongoing FIFA U17 World Cup in Chile. World Cup hosts Chile fell 5-1 to Nigeria and may now need to win their final group game to advance to

the knockout stage of the tournament. However, Golden Eaglets’ coach Emmanuel Amuneke yesterday praised his wards for their impressive display in the 5-1 demolition, which advanced them into the round of 16 of the FIFA U17 World Cup.

He said his players made the hosts uncomfortable in the midfield and forced them out of their style. “It is true we were effective up front, but we also knew how to block their passing game, forcing them to play uncomfortably in the midfield,” he said.

“My players understood the transition game that is when to attack, when to defend. “We also prepared them mentally. It is not easy to play against the host. Chile has a god team, but they lost against the better team. I believe they can qualify for the next round.”

We were wasteful at goal –Chile coach

hile U17 team coach Miguel Ponce has stated that his team played well against champions Nigeria, but lost because they could not put score the chances they created. Ponce admitted his players found it difficult to cope with the physical presence and the speed of the Emmanuel Amuneke-coached team. “I told the kids: Nigeria respected us more than the result shows. They took measures to avoid us playing quickly, they knew to wait for us and scored after patient plays, they did not keep us in our goal for the whole game,” he said. “It is true there were physical differences, especially when it came to speed, but it is also true we were not able to finish off the situations we created. Against a good team, they don’t forgive you.”

FIFA probes Beckenbauer, Villar

erman football great Franz Beckenbauer yesterday became the latest FIFA official named as under investigation, along with Fifa vice-president Angel Maria Villar and several other former executive committee members. The Ethics Committee of the scandal-hit body was given the right to disclose information about cases by Fifa’s executive committee on Tuesday and wasted no time in taking advantage of its new freedom. Beckenbauer, a World Cup winner as a player and coach and a former Fifa executive

committee member, has had his case passed to the Adjudicatory Chamber of the Ethics Committee for a decision. Villar, president of the Spanish Football Federation and a vice-president of both Fifa and European governing body Uefa, has also had his case passed on to the Ethics judge Hans-Joachim Eckert. No details were given of the reasons for the investigations against Beckenbauer or Villar. The Ethics Committee confirmed that, as widely reported, “proceedings are ongoing” against Fifa president Sepp Blatter and Uefa president Mi-

chel Platini “regarding a payment of CHF 2 million from Fifa to Michel Platini in February 2011”. Both men have already been given 90-day provisional bans pending their full investigations. Suspended Fifa secretary general Jerome Valcke’s “ongoing proceedings” were also confirmed. The Ethics Committee said his case “related to the suspicion of misuse of expenses and other infringements of Fifa’s rules and regulations”. The committee also said six other former Fifa execu-

tive committee members were under investigation. All have been suspended or have resigned from office. “Formal investigation proceedings relating to the suspicion of infringements of the Fifa Code of Ethics are among others ongoing against Worawi Makudi, Jeffrey Webb, Ricardo Teixeira, Amos Adamu, Eugenio Figueredo and Nicolás Leoz,” said the statement. Fifa was plunged into crisis in May when the US Department of Justice indicted 14 soccer officials and sports marketing executives on a series of corruption charges.

Beckenbauer

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sports

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Rotary Club honours Okuku Ifeanyi Eduzor

I Para team

NSC to export para soccer to west coast

he National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced plans to help in actualizing the objective of the Para-soccer Federation of Nigeria to popularize para-soccer in other West African countries. The declaration was made yesterday by NSC Director General Alhassan Yakmut at the opening ceremony of the National Para Soccer tournament in Abuja as part activities to mark the World Polio Day. Yakmut, who was represented by an

assistant director in NSC, Dr Olusegun Akinlotan, said Nigeria was willing export the game to the West coast as an alternative activity by polio survivors instead of resorting begging for alms. “Our intention is to take para-soccer to West Africa. We only need to coordinate and synergise with the rest of the world so that we make sure the game is played all over the region,” he The 3rd edition of the tournament that is featuring 16 states is activity supported by the Rotary International among other

partners. The President of the Para-Soccer Federation of Nigeria, Alhaji Misbahu Lawan Didi expressed satisfaction with standard of play and organisation of the tournament and the declaration of Nigeria as a country now free from the polio endemic. Didi expressed his determination to take the game beyond the shores of Nigeria by ensuring that para soccer is accorded international committee recognition.

NSA 2015: Quadri raises Sportsman Award stake Afolabi Gambari

ne of the nominees for the Sports Man of the Year in this year’s Nigerian Sports Award, Aruna Quadri, has improved his chance of clinching the award after claiming the Portuguese Super Cup with his new club Sporting Lisbon. Quadri, who is a twotime winner of the Ball Sports Award of the Nigerian Sports Award, was in fine form when he marshaled the resurgence of the Lisbon-based team

against his former club, GD Toledos at the weekend. For four years while at Toledos, Quadri singlehandedly stopped Sporting from winning the Portuguese Super Cup but after pitching his tent with the Lisbon-based side, the 2014 ITTF Star Player helped the team reclaim the title at the weekend. From the five matches played, Quadri won two of them to give Sporting Lisbon a 4-1 win to reclaim the trophy to the Lisbonbased team. “It was not easy playing against the team I had

featured in for more than three seasons,” the fans’ favourite said, adding, “But I must do my job as a professional. This is my fourth titles and I hope it will gear me up for this week’s Polish Open.” Meanwhile, Quadri will this week return to the ITTF World Tour in Warsaw, Poland after being seeded in number 25 among the 32 seeded players listed for the men singles event. The 2015 Nigerian Sports Award event is schedule for November 20 at the Marquee, Oceanview, Eko Hotel, Lagos.

My agenda for sports in Lagos – Tinubu

he new Chairman/ Special Adviser, Lagos State Sports Commission, Deji Tinubu has promised to lift Lagos State sports to an enviable height.

Deji said this at the first meeting he held with the management staff of the Commission immediately on resumption of office at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

According to him, who was a former executive member of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), his plan is to take sports to another stratosphere in Lagos.

Quadri

n recognition of his humanitarian work since quitting football, former Super Eagles player, Chief Paul Okuku has been given a special award by the Rotary Club of Lagos Mainland; District 9110. The United States of America based founder of “Greater Tomorrow Children Academy”, was honoured at a special ceremony with the Rotary humanitarian merit award. In a recitation read by Editor Rotarian,Adeyemi Ogunkoya, the club described the former Flying Eagles vice captain at the Mexico 83 World Youth Championship as a role model who has used his foundation to impact positively on the lives of many youths even as the club urged other ex-internationals to emulate him and empower the youths. Receiving the award on his behalf, Nollywood actor and sports broadcaster, Jide Alabi commended Rotary Club for recognizing the immense contributions made by Okuku through his foundation, promising that the award will challenge him to do more for the youths. “I am highly impressed with the award because it came at the right time and I want to assure members of Rotary Club, District 9110 that the award will spur Okuku to do more for the development of youths” said Alabi who doubles as ambassador of “Greater Tomorrow Children Foundation”.

WORLD RECORD

Largest smoothie

Vol. 05 No. 1227 Thursday, October 22, 2015

N150

The largest smoothie contained 2,300 litres (607.6 US gal) and was prepared by Dry July (Australia) at Circular Quay in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, on 30 June 2014.

The politics of Falae’s abduction M y friends, all, so much has been said about the recent abduction of Chief Olu Falae, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), and eminent Yoruba leader. While one cannot but condemn this dastardly assault as a sacrilege taken too far, given the pedigree and reverence of Chief Falae, it is pertinent to put in perspective the dangerous dimension the aftermath and outpouring of emotions is taking. Kidnapping anyone in the first instance is horrible, not to mention when the victim is now an elder statesman, a man who served his country meritoriously, and who but for fate would have become the president of Nigeria. When such unwitting crime occurs in any part of the nation, it is easy for the victim’s kinsmen to see it as not only an assault on the symbol of the group’s existence,

igerian Amos Adamu is under investigation by Fifa’s ethics committee, it revealed on Wednesday. Adamu is alleged to have breached Fifa’s code of ethics but world football’s governing body did not provide any more details. The 62-year-old was a member

Guest Columnist

Sola S l

Ojewusi

it is also easy to perceive it as being tantamount to a call to arms by the offender’s provenance. And that is where the problem lies and where the victim, in order not to throw away the baby with the bath water, needs to exercise restraint. I admit that the outpouring of emotion by Falae’s kinsmen is not out of place. Indeed, any well meaning Nigerian must condemn the act in all its ramifications but in doing so, for the sake of Nigeria, our common heritage, the victims must be circumspect. Yes, there has been so much provocation of late from the Fulani cattle men in their time-worn quest to find grazing space for their flock. In a world in which so little is done to educate these nomads about the virtues of respect for the indigenes of the land being grazed by their cattle, and in a nation so filled with ever festering mutual distrust, untoward incidences like this must happen. So, while we castigate the criminals who have easily surrendered their humanity in the quest for money, we must not spare the society that still make such anomalies possible. Have we really paused to consider these incessant cases of kidnapping and other pecuniary crimes as disheartening indices of lost youth or what Soyinka would call the “wasted generation”? It is sad that we have engendered a society where sacrileges like these are commonplace among our youths. Many of our youngsters, supposed trustees of our future, have already succumbed to the dreg of crime and this quick-money anomaly. Bereft of all modicum of youthful inno-

GIVING ETHNIC SENTIMENTS TO EVERY ACT OF

STUPIDITY AND MALADVENTURE IS…

COUNTER-PRODUCTIVE cence, they’ve succumbed completely to crimes and amoral undertakings. Has our leadership seriously considered solving the lost generation problem at all? Some have even left the culprit off the hook. Rather, and curiously, they are now accusing the victim of carelessness and self inflicted ordeal. Our society has been so steeped in crimes that vindication appears to have become the reward for criminals and condemnation reserved for the victim. In a society where innocence has become a crime, nothing but sadness and loss will continue to be its lot. Having said that, one must also be worried by the dangerously ethnic coloration this unfortunate incidence is assuming. Sadly, gradually, because of the lack of circumspection and restraint from many quarters, what should have qualified as a purely criminal mal-adventure by some hell-born, god-forsaken youths has begun to take a dangerously ethnic dimension. The tendency to see the sad event beyond mere criminality is already pitching one ethnic group

against the other and the kind of altercation and exchange of slurs on pages of newspapers is frightening indeed. And this is where caution is required if our rather fragile unity is to be sustained. Every society has its deviants and monopoly of aberration cannot be arrogated to a particular society. After careful consideration of the story of the kidnappers, it is my opinion that these are just common criminals who should be punished in isolation for their horrific crime. Their origin and their ethnicity do not necessarily have anything to do with it. Having in mind that these are just a tiny percentage of a group of millions of good citizens, it would be wrong to castigate the whole for the sins of the part. The insensitivity of some from the ethnicity of the criminals should also be castigated. For those who feel the only solution to the provocative acts of their kinsmen is incessant abuse of the ethnic group of the victim, I will say they have horribly missed the point. Once it is established that the criminals were from a particular region, it behooves that region to admit the shame brought to it by its people. The tendency to grandstand can only escalate the fire of anger rather than abate it. Nigerians should learn to admit their errors whenever such is established. Giving ethnic sentiments to every act of stupidity and mal-adventure is not only condemnable, it is at best counter-productive. These incessant crimes can only mean one thing: The society needs some surgical therapy. For too long, people in authority have gone to sleep regarding adequate social welfare. Our youth are going adrift and all we see daily are largely fiddling and bickering politicians. Sheer force or fire power alone cannot discourage these young criminals from their sordid path. Only solid, forward-looking policies aimed at curbing youth restiveness and criminal tendencies will suffice. Ojewusi wrote via solaojewusi@yahoo.com

Sport Extra Fifa investigates Amos Adamu of Fifa’s executive committee for four years until 2010, when he was banned from all football activity for three years. He was banned over claims he asked for money in exchange for World Cup votes. Adamu’s suspension expired in

October 2013. He was was a high-ranking government official for Nigerian sport for 20 years and was once considered to be a leading candidate to succeed long-serving Issa Hayatou as president of the Confederation of African Football.

German football great Franz Beckenbauer on Wednesday became the latest Fifa official named as under investigation, along with Fifa vice-president Angel Maria Villar and several other former executive committee members.

Adamu

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